The Shuteyes

Mary James, Author Scholastic $13.95 (0p) ISBN 978-0-590-45069-0

Using the same pseudonym as she did for her 1990 novel, Shoebag , popular YA writer M. E. Kerr has written a quasi-science fiction work. Her story, told with a nightmare's whirling madness, concerns young Chester Dumbello, who is carried off by a giant, one-eyed parrot of the topsy-turvy planet Alert--a place where those with the need to sleep are considered criminals called ``shuteyes.'' It seems Chester has been kidnapped and risks being brainwashed like others who have come before him. Unfortunately, the novel never quite delivers on its intriguing scenario. One of the more diverting characters is Chester's mother, Molly, a psychic who spends most of her time beating a drum, interpreting other people's dreams and embarrassing her son. This odd fusion may puzzle readers--at some junctures the book seems to be a commentary on ostracism (``It's bad enough what you are. Don't brag about it,'' says one character) and at others it is simply a bizarre adventure. As if reflecting this dichotomy, the author's writing veers from the engaging to the somewhat disjointed. Ages 8-12. (Feb.)

Reviewed on: 02/01/1993

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Paperback - 376 pages - 978-0-590-45070-6