cover image Eaglebait

Eaglebait

Susan Coryell. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt P, $14.95 (187pp) ISBN 978-0-15-200442-2

Overweight, unathletic and friendless, 14-year-old Wardy Spinks is a disappointment to his parents; at school, he is a prime target for taunting remarks and cruel jokes. Only Grandma Lou recognizes Wardy's true potential and encourages him to pursue his interest in science. A dramatic turn of events occurs when Wardy becomes the protege of his charismatic biology teacher. Mr. Guterman builds Wardy's confidence, offers guidance and promises him a bright future. Wardy changes his attitude about life and eventually wins respect. Then Mr. Guterman increases his demands until Wardy feels pressured to devote all his time to science. Consumed by work, more isolated than ever, Wardy begins to question his teacher's motives. Coryell, a teacher herself, reveals some strong opinions about ambition and motivation. Her examination of student-teacher relationships is insightful, yet this first work has its share of awkward moments. Generally, the novel lacks subtlety; teenagers are cast as stereotypes and complicated problems are too quickly and neatly resolved. Ages 12-up. (Sept.)