CLAUDIA

Author and narrator are sensitively tuned to the feelings of 11-year-old Claudia as she becomes increasingly alienated from family and classmates; everyone is suddenly pressuring her to exchange her tomboy ways for more appropriate feminine interests. Claudia's strong love for her older brother and her secret friendship with a poor Mexican family add depth to her character. The resolution is realistic and satisfying. Claudia's initial immaturity sometimes strains credibility, and young readers may initially be distracted by details of dress, language, and culture that seem dated. (The book was originally published in 1969.) However, the cruelty of children toward one another, the unintentional insensitivity of adults, and the pain of being different are universal. Christina Moore's tone, pacing, and modulation provide warmth and immediacy. E.S. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 03/JAN 04]