I think this would be good to read because almost every child has though about or actually ran away. Student's would really relate to this. I got it at the IUS Library.

The only reason why I give this book 3 stars is because of Pixie. At first I thought I wasn't going to like her character but when she stepped on the scene there was just something so entertaining about her. Her compulsive lying was amusing and I liked how mysterious she seemed at first.

SPOILER!
Other than that the book kind of let me down because they never actually run away (they come close) though they talk about it the ENTIRE book.

Anyways it was a nice 'slice-of-life' kind of book=)

gr 5-8

1951 Rattler Springs, Nevada, 13 year old Dani hates living in the desert. All she wants to do is go back to Sea Grove where she used to live even if she has to run away to do it. Together with her friend Stormy, Dani plans how they'll manage their escape. Their plans change when new girl Pixie moves into town. When she finds out about their plan to runaway, Pixie insists on being included. But who is she? Why did her scientist family choose to live so far from town? Are they spies? Or are they mad scientists like Dr. Frankenstein?

I'd recommend this story to someone who enjoyed Snyder's "The Egypt Game" or anyone who enjoys realistic fiction.

Was cute but seemed to drag along in the middle. You just kept waiting and waiting for them to actually run away. I mean, thats the title of the book, isnt it?

This is yet another book from the Children's Library's annual sale, which I grabbed because I like Zilpha Keatley Snyder. I hadn't read this one before so it's always nice to start a new book by a trusted author. I found this one more similar in tone and setting to Cat Running than any of her other books, and not just because they're both historical fiction. As with many of her books, I found myself thinking about the characters after I had finished it. It's not a nonstop action book, but it is a thoughtful book. I know I will reread it at some point in the future.

Good, but dragged a bit in middle. Good over all.

1951 Rattler Springs, Nevada, 13 year old Dani hates living in the desert. All she wants to do is go back to Sea Grove where she used to live even if she has to run away to do it. Together with her friend Stormy, Dani plans how they'll manage their escape. Their plans change when new girl Pixie moves into town. When she finds out about their plan to runaway, Pixie insists on being included. But who is she? Why did her scientist family choose to live so far from town? Are they spies? Or are they mad scientists like Dr. Frankenstein?

I'd recommend this story to someone who enjoyed Snyder's "The Egypt Game" or anyone who enjoys realistic fiction.

This is a paint-by-numbers Snyder. Readable, and likely to bring at least some pleasure to her more dedicated fans, but not worth the effort for anyone else.

Beautiful story.

Entertaining and warm story of a young girl and her friends learning about life in the desert and their parents.

I hope kids are reading Zil's books. This 48-year-old is reading them!