Martin, Ann M. The Babysitters Club: the truth about Stacey, vol. 2.

MARTIN, Ann M. The Babysitters Club: the truth about Stacey, vol. 2. Art by Raina Telgemeier. Scholastic, Graphix. 142p. illus. c2006. 0-4397-3936-5. $8.99. JS

Everybody's favorite crew of good-hearted babysitters is back in this second graphic novel from Scholastic's Graphix line. In this sophomore volume, Stacey is dealing with some heavy issues: controlling her diabetes and her overprotective family. Well-adjusted and happy, she has no interest in seeing a new doctor, and is less thrilled when it is mentioned that she may have to move again. To make matters worse, the BSC is under some heavy competition when the all-new Baby-Sitters Agency hits the scene, with older, more experienced sitters. How will the girls defeat their rivals? Will Stacey confront her diabetes--and her family?

Martin and Telgemeier have created an endearing graphic novel for young readers. Telgemeier's b/w art is a perfect complement to Martin's writing, forming a smooth synthesis for readers. Little touches--Claudia's updated skunk chunk in her hair, and the keen eye for fashionable details--move this adaptation into a contemporary time frame. Readers of the paperback novel series will like this; and conversely, it may draw fans of the graphic novel to the previous prose series. This family-friendly volume should be a hit with 'tween audiences and will even reach teens with its heavy nostalgia value. Jennifer Feigelman, YA Svcs. Libn., Goshen PL, Goshen, NY

J--Recommended for junior high school students. The contents are of particular interest to young adolescents and their teachers.

S--Recommended for senior high school students.