Still There, Clare Book

Almost-13-year-old Clare has got a wry sense of humor, two wacky parents, and an imaginary friend named Elsa who is just as real to Clare as her non-imaginary friend Paul. But becoming a teen is a big deal, and Clare wants to pack away the remnants of her childhood. Even though she doesn’t really want to do it, Clare decides it’s time to say goodbye to Elsa. But Elsa isn’t quite ready to leave... at least not completely!

Olivia Durant - KLIATT

Clare and Elsa are complete opposites, but have been best friends forever. Nothing could ever tear them apart. That is, until the summer Clare decides that she and Elsa should go their separate ways. What will it matter? After all, Elsa is her imaginary friend, and girls Clare's age don't have pretend companions. However, getting rid of Elsa will be more difficult than she realizes, since she is suddenly left with no one to confide in. Her favorite Aunt Rusty has just started dating her beloved track coach, and her one real friend, Paul, is about to be sent away to live with his grandparents. To top it all off, her mother, a former workaholic lawyer, has decided to be a stay-at-home mom, and watches the Food Network all day. Before long, Clare is desperate for Elsa to return. Clare's voice rings true, and the situations she finds herself in are realistic and funny. The characters are three-dimensional and engaging. Readers will follow Clare's adventures during her 13th summer, and cheer for her as she muddles her way through. This is the first book in a projected series by Prinz. Highly recommended for middle school girls who enjoy realistic fiction. KLIATT Codes: J—Recommended for junior high school students. 2004, Raincoast, 175p., Ages 12 to 15.