Allegra

In Hrdlitschka’s absorbing exploration of contemporary teen life, aspiring dancer Allegra Whitford, daughter of two musicians, is allowed to focus on her passion by spending her senior year at a performing arts high school, Deer Lake. Even Allegra’s lifelong social anxiety seems to be improving, since friendships come more easily at the new school, including a potential romance. But the most important relationship she starts to build is with the young, handsome, and charismatic music teacher, Mr. Rocchelli, who challenges her to compose a complex piece of music. The composition takes over Allegra’s life, as she uncovers her talent, skill, and excitement for the art form, which comes hand in hand with a budding infatuation with Mr. Rocchelli. Meanwhile, Allegra’s rock-star father realizes, a little too late, that his life on the road has estranged his wife, a classically trained harpist. Hrdlitschka (Sister Wife) realistically depicts teenage emotional turmoil as Allegra’s growing obsession with Mr. Rocchelli combines with despair at her parents’ separation and the ups and downs of her new friendships. The main characters’ devotion to the arts enriches the drama; the conclusion, while somewhat facile, is nevertheless satisfying. Ages 12–up. (Apr.)