Chill

Christina Pike is principal of St. Francis School in Harbour Grace,
Newfoundland.

Even though Chill has a bum leg, he is still the fastest junior in his
high school. He also has the uncanny ability to see people and
situations for what they are rather than what they appear to be. It is
this ability that gets Chill into trouble.

When Mr. Sfinkter (the new English teacher) arrives, Chill immediately
sees through the facade and tries to reveal Mr. Sfinkter’s true
character. But no one believes Chill, including his best friend, Sean
Fitzsimmons, from whose point of view the story is told.

Chill calls into question what it means to be a true friend. It also
challenges its readers to decide if they would be brave enough to do the
right thing. Though Chill seems mature beyond his years, his portrayal
is realistic given the challenges he has faced because of his
disability. The fact that Chill must also face the consequences of his
actions strengthens the story. The author has succeeded in capturing
what teens think and feel. Highly recommended.