Thirteen Means Magic

On the morning of her 13th birthday, Dawn Powell begins to suspect that she has inherited magical powers. It starts when she wishes away storm clouds; later, she saves her cousin from falling from a breaking branch. She finally realizes it's true when she makes a Frisbee stop in midair. Dawn starts thinking that eighth grade might really be the best year in school yet. Her grandmother warns her not to use her powers frivolously, but experience is the best teacher. By raising her eyebrow and wishing, Dawn makes herself popular, transports herself instantaneously when she is late, tidies her sister's dresser. But when her magic gets exhausted, she is stuck being herself (``not at all popular'') until her powers are replenished. Finding she can't rely on magic, she discovers the pleasures of achieving something all on one's own. Becker slips in gentle lessons about self-image, true friendship and the moral use of power in this airy comedy. It's a short, easy-to-read novel (first in the Abracadabra series), reminiscent of television's Bewitched , which will amuse even reluctant readers. Ages 9-12. (Oct.)