(3) 4-6 Twelve-year-old Sarah becomes unwilling stepsister to brothers Nacho, ten, and Marco, also twelve, when their parents wed. The blended family then goes yachting off Fiji, and things go horribly wrong. The book switches focus from the realistic, well-developed stepfamily drama to creepy paranormal elements about halfway through. Strong characters, creative world-building, and interesting genre-mixing create an entertaining, sinister adventure story.

Reviewer: Sian Gaetano

(3) 4-6 Cultures of the World series. This clear and comprehensive introduction emphasizes the political, social, economic, and environmental issues of this island nation with events current up to 1999. The readable text discusses Fiji's climate, economy, educational system, religious and artistic traditions, leisure activities, and history. Color photographs of the country and its people are included, as are a page of basic facts, a brief language lesson in Fijian, and a traditional recipe. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram