2007-12-27 Courtesy of Teens Read Too

I CAN SEE YOU is the first of three stories in this quick read. Michael Lewis and his family have left the big city and moved to an old farm just outside of a small town. Used to all the action in the city, Michael isn't adjusting very well to small town life. Teased at school and dubbed "city boy," Michael has only made one friend, Stephanie.

When the annual Hide and Seek contest held in memory of Farmer Axby, the original owner of the farm where Michael now lives, is announced, he thinks it might be just the thing to earn him some respect. His friend, Stephanie, agrees to let him partner up with her and her younger brother and the adventure begins. Michael soon learns that this is no ordinary game of Hide and Seek.

In story #2 titled PICTURE PERFECT, prankster twins Jake and Brandon are caught in the act and as punishment must do chores for their crazy Grandaunt Lucy. They find themselves stripping moldy old wallpaper off the walls in their Grandaunt's musty old house. It is back-breaking work, but it is also a bit surprising. As each strip of paper is removed, a fascinating old mural is revealed. When one of the boys sees the image of Grandaunt Lucy's long-lost little sister, the menial chore begins to turn dangerous.

The final story, TRUE COLORS, is the most frightening. Carrie makes a bargain purchase at the farmers' market, but when the old vendor refuses to part with a "mood" ring that appears to be included with the purchase, Carrie is upset. Later when she finds the very ring lying on the ground, she snatches it up and slips it on her finger. Soon Carrie begins to regret that she didn't listen to the old woman's warning.

Although the stories lack a certain depth and development, they are sure to be popular with most middle grade readers. After all, everyone loves a good, creepy story now and then.

Reviewed by: Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky"