Starscape/Tor Books (Paperback), ISBN 0-765-34243-X9

Fourteen year-old Jason Miller can't imagine anything more boring than living in the small town of Billington. Just when he thinks he can't stand a moment more of the parental, physical, peer and mental monotony, the school loudspeaker announces the death of Jason's close friend Ethan. From that moment on, Jason's life spins out of control and takes turns that leave boredom far behind.

At Ethan's mysterious funeral, Jason realizes there's more going on in Billington than meets the eye. He teams up with Paula Quinn, a girl he has a crush on, to find out just why Ethan's parents seem nervous, rather than devastated by the loss of their son. Together, Jason and Paula trail the truth but hit dead ends in every direction. Could the entire town of Billingston be involved in a cover-up?

Strange becomes stranger when Grant, a creepy janitor from Billington Junior High, takes interest in Jason, presents him with a dangerous metal glove and arranges a secret meeting. Then, in uncharacteristically rash behavior, Jason's own parents pack up their home and prepare to leave the town. Finally, Jason realizes that nothing in his life (except Paula) is as it appears to be -- not Ethan's death, the town, the townspeople, his parents, even himself!

In the blink of an eye, The Dark Side of Nowhere transforms from a gripping teenage problem novel (parental, peer and puppy love relationships) into thrilling science fiction of the extraterrestrial kind. You don't need to be a sci-fi fan to enjoy this story. If you like fast-paced action and adventure laced with murder and mystery, you won't want to put The Dark Side of Nowhere down.

Lynne Remick Pisano

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