Dumbleton, Mike. Watch out for Jamie Joel

Kliatt, Nov, 2004 by Nancy Chrismer

DUMBLETON, Mike. Watch out for Jamie Joel. Alien & Unwin. 139p. c2003. 1-86508532-4. $795. JS

Jamie Joel is a young lady with many troubles. She lives with her aunt, who abuses her frequently; she constantly gets in trouble in school; and even though she knows better, she just can't seem to keep her mouth shut. Craig Eliot, the new deputy principal, can see through her problems and her negative attitude. He recognizes her as a girl who has abilities and who shows promise. The reader sees this story from both sides because it is told in the alternating voices of Jamie and Mr. Eliot. Jamie has to decide what she is going to do about her home life, her school career, and a new boyfriend. Mr. Eliot must deal with the multitudinous problems in his high school. He goes the extra mile to try to help teens in trouble, including Jamie Joel.

This is an excellent novel that shows a troubled teenager and a principal who tries his best to help his students. It is a realistic picture of life in today's high schools, and draws the reader into caring about both characters. Nancy Chrismer, Libn., Juniata H.S., Mifflintown, PA