Schraff, Anne. Wildflower.

Schraff, Anne. Wildflower.
Saddleback 2011 183p 8.95
978-1-61651-009-1 ms/hs VG Urban Underground (Saddleback)

This title in the Urban Underground series follows Chelsea, the daughter of a strict father She is becoming a bit wild for his tastes as he tries to reign her in to no avail until a dangerous incident tones her down. Reminiscent of Bluford High series. This title in the Urban Underground series follows Chelsea, the daughter of a strict father. Her mother is more understanding of teen ways and her older brother Jaris watches out for her. Chelsea is in eighth grade and still attends middle school but is looking forward to attending Tubman High where Jaris and his friends go. According to her father, Chelsea is too wild, dresses too provocatively, and hangs out with immature friends. Mom is more of a pollyanna and Jaris knows the deal with teens and that’s why he’s big brotherly protective. Never the less, Chelsea manages to get herself into situations such as the drug party that Jaris luckily rescues her from. Meanwhile, Dad and Mom have their own drama going on in that Dad is unhappy in his job and wants to purchase the mechanic business and Mom is stressed over the financial woes getting a loan would bring to the family. Towards the end of the story, Chelsea and her two friends go for a car ride after school with some boys which turns into a high speed chase where they are in fear for their lives. However, all ends well, Chelsea is duly chastised and realizes the errors of her ways and Dad and Mom are happy because the loan went through and now Dad is a business owner. Jaris, the rock of the family, can finally relax (that is until Chelsea starts Tubman High!). This book is reminiscent of the Bluford High series and will be a very good, useful addition to libraries looking for high interest titles. Realistic Fiction Weinraub, Tina