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.

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