The Flight of the Cassowary

The assured, imaginative writing in LeVert's first novel compels belief in the story told by John, a sensitive 16-year-old. Insecure among peers, John suffers from his father's unreasonable demands at home although he enjoys a loving relationship with his younger siblings. His problems make the boy singularly aware of animal life, which he studies closely, and he gets into deeper trouble. John becomes, in crises, a variety of creatures with whom he empathizes. His weird behavior incites attacks from kids at school and enrages his father. A didactic psychiatrist is no help but John's good friend, his girlfriend and his little brother and sister remain close and caring. The story lacks a definitive conclusion but gives readers a memorable experience and much to think about, particularly on the understanding owed to ""different'' people. (12-up)