theoutcasts

__ The Outcasts of 19 Schuyler Place __, by E.L. Konigsburg Fiction Upon leaving an oppressive summer camp, twelve-year-old Margaret Rose Kane spearheads a campaign to preserve three unique towers her great-uncles have been building in their backyard for more than forty years.

Editorial Reviews Grade 6-9–E. L. Konigsburg has created another spunky young heroine in //The Outcasts of 19 Schuyler Place// (Atheneum, 2004.) Twelve-year-old Margaret Rose Kane declares her independence when she politely, but firmly, refuses to "fit in" at summer camp. Fortunately, her great uncles Alex and Morris are happy to bring her to their home on Schuyler Place where she quickly learns about a dispute between the elderly men and a neighborhood group. The controversy centers on the uncle's colorful backyard towers that the neighbors believe lower their property values. The two men have carefully built these structures over four decades, but now they are set for demolition. Undaunted by the looming deadline, the determined girl enlists the help of family friends and the camp director's son. While the adults work to preserve the towers, Margaret stops the wrecking crew by taking a brave stand, and by getting unexpected help from her former camp tormentors. The story offers an insightful look at issues such as urban renewal and the realities of local politics. Actress Molly Ringwald cleverly employs a vaguely-Hungarian accent and lots of humor to bring the novel's memorable characters to life. Though the rose illustration on the cover may not draw listeners, the good sound quality, solid packaging, and useful information on the case will make it easy to circulate. Konigsburg's fans will delight as her latest youthful adventurer outwits the system and reaffirms the power of mutually-supportive loved ones. There's sure to be a worthwhile place on the shelves of public and middle school libraries for this audiobook.–//Barbara Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT//
 * From School Library Journal **