The third incarnation of Blume's first published book, this has the same text as the 1981 edition (illustrated by Aitken), but features new design, new type, and new artwork by Trivas. Sticklers for detail may wonder why Freddy's green cosmetic freckles seem to disappear, then reappear during scenes of the school play; but Trivas' bouncy, good-natured illustrations seem destined to charm even the most critical viewers. With larger, more generously spaced type, the 1981 version was better suited for independent reading; this edition seems better designed for reading aloud to children. (Reviewed Oct. 15, 1991)

Gr 1-3-- First published in 1969 with turquoise and yellow pictures by Lois Axeman (Reilly & Lee, 1969; o.p.), this was substantially updated and revised in 1981 (Bradbury) and reillustrated in black and white by Amy Aitken. That same text has now been reillustrated by Trivas in bright watercolor washes and black crayon line. The multiracial cast of fifth- and sixth-graders still welcome the second-grader; Freddy still proudly sheds his resentment over being ranked as the ``one in the middle'' of his siblings; and the theme of being glad to be you is still validly presented. Trivas's lively renderings depict contemporary children and settings in an edition sized to match her reillustrated version of Blume's The Pain and the Great One (Bradbury, 1984). --Susan Hepler, Alexandria City Public Schools, VA

Blume's well-known story about the middle sibling finding independence through a part in the school play is reissued with new relaxed, comfortable illustrations.