Lefty Carmichael Has A Fit

January 4, 1999
Deftly balancing humor with grim realism, Trembath (The Tuesday Caf ; A Fly Named Alfred) expresses how 15-year-old Lefty, his family and the colorful residents of their low-income neighborhood react when Lefty is diagnosed with epilepsy. Lefty, who narrates the novel, finds it challenging to return to a "normal" life after being hospitalized for a seizure. His mother's clique of gossipy friends eagerly discuss his ailment at great length, interjecting stories about their own bouts with illness, while at school rumors about Lefty's "fits" spread like wildfire. Penny, Lefty's "girlfriend, sort of," seems suddenly reluctant to spend time with him alone. His ability to cope with his new life grows along with the realization that, despite his traumatic changes, certain things in his world remain constant--the endless chatter of neighbor women, support from his family, his English teacher's compassionate heart and the loyalty of Rueben, his oldest and best friend. The strength of the author's writing lies in his precise, entertaining depiction of characters and their chorus of lively dialogue. Ages 12-16.

February 1, 2000
Gr 8 Up-Lefty Carmichael is 15 when he has his first epileptic seizure. Though the disease will affect his future lifestyle, he has family and friends who love and support him-including a girlfriend and a best friend (an alcoholic). The information about epilepsy is correct, but dry. Lefty's healthy outlook and acceptance of his problems ring true. The fear of losing control of his body and the caution with which loved ones treat him are also realistic. The intolerance of peers is balanced with the sensitivity of a teacher. The strongest writing in the narrative comes from Lefty's incisive poems and journal entries about his life and illness. He is a gifted and intuitive writer; unfortunately, there are too few of these passages. One element of the book seems curiously out of place-the reaction to the boy's illness by his mother's friends. They ramble on about their own problems and illnesses; these sections are of questionable appeal to young adults. Nevertheless, Trembath offers a sensitive, honest look at a teen coming to grips with a chronic illness.-Jennifer J. Gallant, Cleveland Public Library, OH

Copyright 2000 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.