The teen years are marked by inevitable struggles to break free from family, to strike out on one's own, to make a mark. Throughout this powerful and moving collection of stories, the protagonists show their yearning to assert their individuality, find new friendships, confront death and discover places for themselves. Close-Ups confronts teen readers with the sometimes exultant, sometimes anguished, but always riveting turf of adolescence. Under one cover these seventeen stories, from such acknowledged talents as Martha Brooks, Brian Doyle, Sarah Ellis, Bernice Friesen, Linda Holeman, Kevin Major, Budge Wilson, Tim Wynne-Jones and many others, salute the rich and varied talents of Canadian writers for teens. All proceeds from this celebratory collection go to the work of the Canadian Children's Book Centre-the most vital organization in the country when it comes to the promotion and advocacy of Canadian children's books. In purchasing this book, booksellers, librarians, teachers and readers take a direct role in supporting the agency without which there would have been no outstanding body of children's literature over the past two decades. Red Deer Press, in acknowledging the critical role of the Centre, has donated all of its resources to bring this book to publication. As well, the writers, designer, cover artist and sales and distribution personnel have donated their talents to see this book reach its readers.