Fifteen year old Annabel Bairstow (otherwise known as "Barbie-Brain") is dreading the long hot summer ahead until the handsome, self-confident and rather exotic (well, he's American) arrives on the scene. Amid the upheaval of her parents' recent divorce, Annabel soon discovers that there are somethings she can change, and before long she is on a mission to get exactly what she wants--and needs.

Veronica Bennett's fast-paced, touching and indeed, at times, raucous account of one girl's summer is well-written, beautifully observed and filled with classic teen angst and adventure. As Annabel gets to grips with her own troubled life and discovers a new and exciting future where, rather than just waiting for things to happen to her, she can take control for herself The Boy Free Zone comes into its own with a wry observational streak that brings it well and truly back down to earth.

Not exactly brain surgery, but certainly something for avid teens to get their teeth into, The Boy Free Zone doesn't take itself too seriously, but is a cut above many a teen read. Age 12 and over --Susan Harrison

Genre: Young Adult Romance