ISLAND DREAMER
Christy Miller: Volume Two, Book Five
Robin Jones Gunn
Multnomah
Fiction
ISBN-10: 159052585X
ISBN-13: 9781590525852
153 pages

Christy Miller is upset when longtime love interest Todd takes off to spend three weeks in Hawaii without her. But in ISLAND DREAMER, the fifth installment in Robin Jones Gunn's Christy Miller series, she's thrilled to see old best friend Paula, who's flying in from Wisconsin to spend time with her.

However, from the moment Paula steps off the plane, it's clear that things have changed. No longer the little girl that Christy remembers, Paula only seems to have two things on her mind: soaking up as much California style as possible and (most importantly) finding the perfect boyfriend. Their friendship becomes more and more strained as Paula shows little interest beyond sunglasses and swimsuits, and constantly dismisses Christy when she tries to discuss her new spiritual beliefs.

Things begin to look up when Christy's aunt announces that the whole family --- including Paula --- will be going to Hawaii. As wonderful as the trip sounds, Christy is even more excited at the prospect of seeing Todd and having a romantic time with him on the island, especially as they will get to spend her 16th birthday together. Although she once felt confident in the relationship, Paula's constant insistence that Todd see other girls begins to wear away at Christy. When they reach the island, Christy's fear escalates as Paula cannot seem to keep her eyes (or hands) off of Todd. Jealous and hurt as Paula monopolizes all of his time, Christy's Sweet 16 starts out on a miserable note.

However, a mysterious birthday call from across the world helps to cheer up Christy and makes her wonder if Todd really is the only one for her. Todd then breaks some surprising news that will have serious implications for their relationship. On top of everything, Christy still must get her driver's license but is lacking the confidence to do so. A crazy ride down a narrow Hawaiian road might be just what she needs to pass the test she has dreaded for so long.

ISLAND DREAMER is a great continuation of Christy Miller's story. While they may get very annoyed with her, Christy Miller fans will be happy to finally get to know Paula. Although most of the book takes place in Hawaii, it has all the elements that fans of the series will enjoy --- beaches, surfing and a little bit of romance. While the setting may be light, it still offers much insight into relationships, particularly friendship. Readers of teen fiction will not be disappointed, and several surprises leave much to discover in the next installment.

   --- Reviewed by Jennifer Crosby

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