I HADN'T MEANT TO TELL YOU THIS

Woodson justifiably won four awards for this beautiful but wrenching story. Two 12-year-old girls--Marie, who is black, and Lena, who is white--forge a surprising friendship that is the complete opposite of what these stories usually portray. Both girls have lost mothers and help each other in ways no one else can. Each also faces racial opposition from family. Thigpen is masterful with each portrayal; the two girls truly come alive and are quickly beloved by listeners. Equally, the runaway mother's absurd postcards are a perfect counterpoint to the girls' painful realities. Few will fail to be moved by this timeless story, but adolescent girls will be particularly affected. S.G.B. © AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 99]