Kids into books - The Gap

This weeks title: The Gap

Author: Marie Gibson

Publisher: Scholastic, $11.95

Illustrator: Kim Baird

Age group: 8-11 years

"Hold on to this, Annabelle." Matthew stood beside the train and thrust the lead from Rosie's harness at his fourteen-year-old sister. A scowl darkened Rosie's face and she stamped her foot.

"Not 'belle!" the three-year-old said. "I want you, Matt."

Matthew sneaked a look at Annabelle, wondering how she'd take this. She'd always been touchy, but since their parents had separated four years ago she'd become much worse.

Mum had married Greg Stalker soon after, and they'd all gone to live on his farm. Matthew got on well with his new stepfather, but Annabelle didn't. Things became even worse when Dad got married again six months later.

Annabelle tossed her head and turned away, pretending not to care. But Matthew knew she was upset. Most of the time he was pleased that Rosie preferred him, but just this once he wished it was the other way around.

"But Rosie," he said, "I've got to climb up there to take some photos."

He dangled his camera in front of her and pointed to a large rock jutting out from the steep hillside a couple of metres above his head. It would make a great viewing platform.

"It's too dangerous for you. I'll only be a minute."

"Look after her yourself," Annabelle snapped, her face clouding with jealousy. "You were the one who said she wouldn't be any trouble."