A mildly entertaining middle-school age book about a teenage boy who is having some difficulty growing into his own skin. He visits his Aunt Bridget for the summer and meets a whole new group of friends, gaining confidence and a sense of purpose as well.

I gave a copy of this - and the sequel [Return to Gill Park] - to my 11-year-old nephew. ( )

Willy Wilson's whole life is about to change. This timid and sheltered 12-year old boy is invited by his Aunt Bridget, a quirky costume designer, to come stay with her during his summer vacation in her big city apartment. Everything there is different and, most surprisingly, Willy finds that he is different there too. Through hilarious situations filled with unforgettable characters, by the end of the summer Willy finds he is richer in ways that he had never imagined before. A compelling chapter book for middle years readers who want to experience a summer they will never forget, this action-filled novel also has a sequel, “Return to Gill Park”. ( )

Lexile: 680
Reading Recovery: 22
DRA: 38
Fountas Pinnel Guided Reading: P
red star