Kids into books: Ryan's Dog Ringo

Author: Marie Gibson

Illustration: Richard Hoit

Publisher: Shortland Publications, $8.75

Age group: 11-12 years

No one had ever believed the twelve-year-old boys were twins. They looked so different. Ryan had dark grey eyes and brown hair, like their dad. He was solid and strong.

People who had known their mother said Greg took after her. He was tall and thin, with blond hair and pale blue eyes. Before his accident, he'd been the fastest runner in the school.

"Great to have you home, Greg," Ryan said. He hugged his brother.

"Don't be rough, Ryan," Aunt Beth snapped. She used her tight grip on the wheelchair to turn Greg away from him. Ryan pulled back guiltily. Nothing he did was right.

Aunt Beth was Dad's older sister. She used to be fun when she first came to live with them. That was five years ago - after their mother died.

But when Greg had his accident, things changed. She insisted on doing everything for him and she had no time for anyone else.