ANNOTATION

First, Abby and Hannah need to find the perfect outfits for fifth-grade graduation. Then Abby has to make plans for the summer. She decides to take swimming lessons and relax. But Abby's peaceful vacation is disturbed thanks to some unexpected house guests. Can her perfect summer be saved?

FROM THE PUBLISHER

After thirteen books, Abby is finally graduating from fifth grade. There's a lot to do before the big event, including finding the perfect graduation outfit. Once the ceremony is over, Abby plans to spend a quiet summer preparing for sixth grade. Then Abby's mother college friend, Laurie, and her young daughter, Wynter, arrive for an extended stay. Laurie--a musician--is trying to get her career back on track. She expects Abby to care for Wynter while she's out. Before long, Abby gets fed up. Abby's mom confronts Laurie, and Abby is able to reclaim her pre-middle school summer.

FROM THE CRITICS

Children's Literature - Mary Forbes

The big day has finally arrived for Abby Hayes as she graduates from fifth-grade! First she needs to find the perfect graduation outfit with her friend Hannah and then make plans for a wonderful summer vacation. But finding the perfect outfit was easy in comparison to the tumultuous interruption that is about to invade her home and her vacation plans. When Mom's unexpected company arrives with weird eating habits, strange behavior and over-the-top babysitting duties, Abby wonders if she will ever have a relaxing day to herself. The biggest problem is that her Mom does not see any of this—or does she? This paperback is a fun read for anyone who has had to put up with not-so-wonderful company. Abby's journal entries add extra angst as she describes in great detail how miserable her life has become. The addition of Abby's fifth-grade yearbook also adds a nice touch for readers with a page for friends to write their own messages. 2004, Scholastic Inc/Apple Paperbacks, Ages 9 to 12.