The Most Important Thing

In this thought-provoking sequel to Supermouse, 14-year-old Nicola must decide whether to leave school to study ballet in earnest. Her younger sister Rose has already ""made it'' as an actress. Vain and self-centered, Rose knocks ``ordinary people,'' those not lucky enough to be ``in the business.'' Nicola loves to dance, but she also enjoys ``ordinary'' pursuits like schoolwork, friends and outings with her boyfriend. Encouraged by her bossy mother, Nicola auditions for prestigious Kendra Hall ballet school and is accepted. Now a ``star'' like Rose, Nicola ends up feeling more pain than pleasure. Ure presents an uncompromising portrait of show biz brats and moms. This, plus her understanding of what it takes to be a real artist, will enlighten readers under the impression that looks, a little talent and a lot of press equal artistic expertise and (by extension) happiness. (10up)