Awww...yep, almost cried a little at the end of this one! ( )

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These were great for young girls in the 90s to get their teeth into reading. This was one of the more sad of the stories as Stacey leaves. Of course no one ever enjoys saying goodbye to a friend or this kind of change, even if it is important to mention. While the series was good for young girls, it wasn't overly impressive with style in writing form. ( )

good book ( )

The Babysitter series may not be ground breaking, but it clearly does something right, because I keep choosing these books off the shelves, and always have a pleasant read. In this book, number thirteen in the series, Stacey receives shocking news from her parents. Her dad's company is closing their branch in Connecticut, and is asking him to move back to his office in New York. Stacey is shocked, and even more upset when she learns that the move is happening in a matter of weeks. Her feelings aren't all negative, though; she is excited to return to her favorite New York City spots, and delighted to reunite with her old best friend, but she can't stand the thought of leaving Claudia and the Babysitter's Club.

The book explores Stacey's emotional progress as she processes the new change in her life, the reactions of her babysitting friends, and a huge yard sale that Stacey and her friends run to eliminate the extra stuff that won't fit in her new apartment. The book closes with two events: a massive farewell party that the Babysitters club throws in Stacey's honor, and the move itself. The story ends with Stacey and her parents on the road, saying final goodbyes to Stoneybrook, and anticipating their new lives in New York.

Many children's series focus their books on important topics in a child's life, so it's not surprising that Martin chose to devote a book to the idea of a friend moving away. This story presents both perspectives, as well - the thoughts and feelings of the child having to leave, and those of her friends being left behind. Thankfully, the story is not maudlin or sappy. It handles the grief of parting with an understanding hand, but also explores the positive adventure of moving to a new place. I was sad to see Stacey leave the circle of friends, but since I know she returns later in the series (any quick read of a title list reveals this trivia), it was just a mild disappointment. I remain true to my opinion that this series is a light-hearted collection of books that capture a typical picture of a child's world. They are not innovative or the finest example of writing, but they are sweet and moral and uplifting, like watching a Sunday afternoon special. I like them. ( )