While No One Was Watching

by Jane Leslie Conly

Frankie, Earl, and Angela aren't excited about spending the summer with Aunt Lula while their dad's away. But they have no idea just how bad it will be. When Lula disappears, the kids have no food, no money-- and no one to take care of them. Someone has to take charge. Since Earl is the oldest, he feels responsible. His older cousin, Wayne, shows him how to steal bikes. It's a great way to make money, and Earl is desperate. But stealing bikes is not all Wayne does. And when he asks Earl to join him in a new money-making scheme, Earl is torn. It feels bad, but he needs the money. And no one is watching...

Genres: Fiction

233 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

About the author

Daughter of author Robert C. O'Brien.

Reviews

[Spellbind Consensus]

"While No One Was Watching" by Jane Leslie Conly is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of friendship, social justice, and the often overlooked struggles of the homeless. The story is set in a bustling urban environment and centers around two young protagonists, 12-year-old Margaret (Maggie) and her younger brother, Cody.

The siblings' lives take an unexpected turn when they encounter a homeless girl named Tanya. Maggie and Cody are initially intrigued and sympathetic, drawn to Tanya's resilience and the mystery surrounding her situation. Tanya, tough and guarded, is initially wary of the siblings' interest, but slowly, a bond forms between the three children.

As Maggie and Cody befriend Tanya, they begin to learn about the harsh realities of life on the streets. Tanya's story is one of survival; she has been separated from her family and navigates the dangers of homelessness on her own. The siblings, moved by her plight, decide to help Tanya in any way they can. This decision leads them into a deeper understanding of the social issues that contribute to homelessness, including poverty, neglect, and systemic failures.

Maggie, in particular, becomes determined to make a difference. She starts to research more about homelessness and becomes actively involved in trying to find solutions, both small and large, to help Tanya. Maggie’s journey is one of growth and awareness, as she confronts the limitations of her own understanding and the complexities of the world around her.

The novel also explores the dynamics within Maggie and Cody's own family. Their parents, initially unaware of their children's involvement with Tanya, represent a more conventional perspective on homelessness, one that is challenged by Maggie’s newfound awareness and determination. This contrast highlights the often overlooked or misunderstood aspects of the issue and encourages readers to consider their own perceptions and actions.

Conly uses the children's perspectives to tackle serious social issues with sensitivity and depth. The narrative is both a compelling story of friendship and a call to action, urging readers to look beyond appearances and consider the lives of those who often go unnoticed.

The climax of the story revolves around the children's efforts to help Tanya reunite with her family or find a safe, permanent home. Their journey is fraught with challenges and moments of despair, but also filled with hope and the unwavering belief that even small actions can make a significant difference.

"While No One Was Watching" is a powerful novel that combines the innocence and determination of its young protagonists with a serious examination of social justice issues. Jane Leslie Conly’s storytelling is engaging and poignant, making the novel both an educational and emotionally resonant read. Through Maggie and Cody’s eyes, readers are invited to witness the often invisible struggles of homelessness and to recognize the importance of empathy, action, and awareness in addressing societal issues.

[Monique · Rating 2 out of 5]

Finished this 233 page teen read in about a day or so and I must say I was entertained..this book is part mystery, part realistic fiction and part moral tale for all..what would you do if no one was watching you? Alright so three siblings are living with their aunt while their father secures them housing..their aunt however is drunk and leaves the children home alone a lot and so Earl, Frankie and Angela must fend for themselves and the three split off in their own storylines—Earl hanging with his cousin and getting into trouble---beyond just “harmless” stealing bicycles; Frankie, the tagalong brother who finds a rabbit and goes through his own internal crisis on whether he should keep it or not and then there is the sassy Angela, the youngest, cussing, lying and precocious dirty little girl who runs around talking and just being busy the whole book (she was favorite) and you wonder what is going to happen to these three..It is up to them to feed themselves, determine right and wrong and decide what is the limit to doing what they want to do..I really liked the Mr. Tiptop character also, just an all around nice guy that was willing to help the kids even when he could barely help himself and it was just awful what happened to him..From stealing bikes, robbery and then beating up the elderly this book handles issues that troubled youth in need of money go through, I think it is great discussion material for adolescents..Hmm this was a 1998 read that may stand the test of time..I will recommend it hmm I would say fifth or sixth grade.

[Nowhere Girl · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is one of two books I remember reading as a kid before I actually got in to reading, and I have rather fond (if few) memories of it. From what I remember it's kind of a sympathetic, nuanced tale, and I remember there being rabbits in it, which is always a good thing for a book. It didn't inspire me to start reading extensively (that would take K.A. Applegates literary masterpiece) but I did actually choose to read this book on my own, and the only other book which I can say that for is Dead Man In Indian Creek. Also I think 4th grade me found parts of it violent, but I believe that was offset by the bunny. Perfectly balanced, as all things should be.

[Jonathan A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

While no one was watching by Jane Conly is a realistic fiction about three siblings and their stay with their aunt Lulu over the summer. Only after a couple of days Aunt Lulu leaves with no warning. Getting money by stealing bikes Frankie the middle child steals a rabbit during one of these bike heist with his brother Earl and their cousin Wayne. Then the money making scheme came along.
My favorite character is Angela which is Earls and Frankie's sister. I like her because she is funny, a lair, and a swearer.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a quick read and a page turner.

[Zahra Hitari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book such a long time ago, way back in junior high. It kept me hooked on every single page. It literally touched my heart and i must say it has been since then and now still is my favorite book.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

really brings the real world to the story.

[marissa:] · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book & it was very suspenseful which I LOVE