Ann Weil (1) (1908–1969)

Accidentally requested this a year earlier than we'll be reading it for the Newbery Club. Happy accident, though, as I'd hate to have missed it (it may get culled in the meantime, as so many older Newbery Honor books do get weeded by libraries).

Funny. So engaging I read it one sitting. If you don't want a spoiler to the mystery, don't google Capri (or remember what you know about it) until after reading. Weil captured what we think of when we think of traditional life on a Mediterranean island perfectly. Every character is drawn quickly but richly. Every person, every place, feels just right, as if the reader could just step into the book and be there with them. I do highly recommend it and have no idea why it's not more popular (unless American children can't accept the name Michele on a boy).

"You don't need an artist to show you the beauty of a place like that. But your ugly steps--if I have made you see a bit of beauty in them, Michele, I am very happy."… (more)