The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester

by Barbara O'Connor (2010)

for ages 8-12 years

Owen Jester just moved into his grandfather's house in Carter, Georgia. He must now contend with his grandfather's cranky housekeeper and his new nosy girl neighbor named Viola. On top of that he is now farther away from his two best friends.

He has a stroke of luck, though, when he catches the biggest, most beautiful toad around. He names the frog Tooley and is reluctant to give Tooley up even when he appears not to be thriving in captivity.

His second stroke of luck is when he hears something big fall from a train at the nearby railroad tracks. His investigations lead him to something wonderful that just might be the answer to some of his problems. Unfortunately, he must keep it secret from his parents and from Viola, both of which are hard to do. At the risk of damaging his friendship with his two best friends he may have to bring Viola in on the secret, though.

This is a charming story of good old-fashioned summer intrique. The story will appeal to both boys and girls. Plus, the giant toad on the cover is quite eye-catching.-sc-

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