Growing up in New York City after World War II, Lenny Kandell dreams of being a world-famous stand-up comic and spends every waking hour perfecting his act. His life takes a turn toward the serious when he is continually threatened by the school bully; through perseverance and humor, Lenny manages to come out on top. A fast paced, funny novel, full of wonderfully corny jokes and amusing, true to life situations. (Ages 9-13)

Sonia, who plans to be a veterinarian, finds an ally in her stepmother when her father refuses to let her keep a stray dog for her own.