In each of these nine stories the main character has to do mental rearranging. Previously held views and friendships dissolve as new experiences and insights make change necessary. In every case change is growth. The stories are funny and tragic, but all reflect life in today's world and offer young readers a chance to look at their experiences and reevaluate them. An absent father, facial disfigurement, attitudes toward a retarded boy, stealing to regain a friendship, a memorable driving lesson, and an unexpected first love are some of the causes for rearranging. The changes they produce reflect a variety of responses: courage, acceptance, new regard for other people, or a hope for a better future.
