Grades 5 & Up

Staff -- School Library Journal, 10/1/2006

Fiction

Gr 9 Up–In this fascinating and eye-opening Revolution-era novel, Octavian, a black youth raised in a Boston household of radical philosophers, is given an excellent classical education. He and his mother, an African princess, are kept isolated on the estate, and only as he grows older does he realize that while he is well dressed and well fed, he is indeed a captive being used by his guardians as part of an experiment to determine the intellectual acuity of Africans. As the fortunes of the Novanglian College of Lucidity change, so do the nature and conduct of their experiments. The boy’s guardians host a “pox party” where everyone is inoculated with the disease in hopes that they will then be immune to its effects, but, instead, Octavian’s mother dies. He runs away and ends up playing the fiddle and joining in the Patriots’ cause. He’s eventually captured and brought back to his household where he’s bound and forced to wear an iron mask until one of his more sympathetic instructors engineers his escape. Readers will have to wait for the second volume to find out the protagonist’s fate. The novel is written in 18th-century language from Octavian’s point of view and in letters written by a soldier who befriends him. Despite the challenging style, this powerful novel will resonate with contemporary readers. The issues of slavery and human rights, racism, free will, the causes of war, and one person’s struggle to define himself are just as relevant today. Anderson’s use of factual information to convey the time and place is powerfully done.–Sharon Rawlins, NJ Library for the Blind and Handicapped, Trenton

Gr 7 Up–After a war that raged for many years, Oliza Shardae Cobriana has become the heir to both the avian and serpiente thrones. As a symbol of peace at Wyvern’s Court, she is expected to choose a mate who will become her king, but how can she choose between the serpiente, Urban, and the avian, Marus? When the princess is kidnapped and a note is found claiming she has abdicated the throne, mistrust erupts again between the races. Characters from Hawksong (2003), Snakecharm (2004), and Falcondance (2005, all Delacorte) are mentioned but no prior knowledge of the previous books is needed to understand the plot. A novel about the difficulty of bringing together two very diverse races and the sacrifices inherent in ruling, Wolfcry is a tale of the spirit and love that this ruling class has for its subjects.–June H. Keuhn, Corning East High School, NY

Gr 5 Up–Unlike most collections, there is no integrating theme in the 24 short stories included here–just fine writing, cultural diversity, and timeless creativity. With such strong writers as Richard Peck, Natalie Babbitt, Lloyd Alexander, and Rafe Martin, one would expect nothing less. Strategic placement of genres sustains reader interest. Animals as heroes, time machines as homework helpers, along with Washington Irving’s timeless classic “Rip Van Winkle” and Frank Stockton’s highly provocative “The Lady or the Tiger?” offer many powerful, instantly engaging choices, especially appealing to reluctant readers. Scatterings of the supernatural appear throughout, such as in Patricia McKissack’s “The Woman in White,” in which a desperate ghost propels readers into the injustices of the pre-Civil Rights era. Others are sure to elicit a shiver, like Robert San Souci’s “The Caller.” Brief biographical sketches of the contributors are included. Katherine Paterson offers a persuasive afterword in favor of sharing, discussing, and reading these selections aloud as well as exhorting the dire need for more quality writing in short fiction.–D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 5-9–At the conclusion of Crispin: The Cross of Lead (Hyperion, 2002), Crispin and Bear have escaped and are enjoying their hard-won freedom, planning to resume their 14th-century lifestyle as traveling minstrels and jugglers. But that freedom doesn’t last long because they soon find themselves hunted again by men who believe Bear to be a traitor to the Brotherhood (which is planning a revolt against the oppressive rulers of England). And, with Bear severely injured, Crispin has to make crucial decisions about their future, which for Bear means confronting the sins of the past. The thoughtful introduction of Troth, a disfigured girl, and the trio’s fearful journey across the Channel add historical relevance and bring home a critical lesson in tolerance. This second book in a planned trilogy explores even more thoughtfully the themes of religion, war, the motives of men, and the meaning of family. This is an extraordinary work of lyrical simplicity, nearly flawless in its execution, and a haunting tale of love and loss. Readers will devour this story and eagerly anticipate the conclusion of Crispin’s adventures.–Melissa Moore, Union University Library, Jackson, TN

Gr 4-7–Living with working parents in the Seattle area, Anu spends a lot of time with his Indian grandfather. When Bapu has a stroke and later dies, the boy cannot let go of his guilt or his wish to stay connected. Then Auntie Biku visits from India, bringing a video of the sadhus, or holy men, and Anu is inspired to become one of them so that he can maintain his contact with Bapu. His adaptation of mystical ways, such as trying to roll to school, copying the sadhu who is said to have rolled thousands of miles, adds spice and humor to the story. Anu remains thoroughly American even as his roots in his Eastern tradition and culture are strong. The post-September 11th setting realistically reveals the stereotypes and bias confronting the protagonist’s family and friends without being overbearing. A visit to a mystery museum brings the story to a satisfying conclusion. While many readers will see this novel as a window to a culture they know little about, the real value to most collections will be in providing Indian Americans with a chance to see themselves and their culture affirmed.–Carol A. Edwards, Douglas County Libraries, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 7 Up–At Oklahoma’s Emory High, students belong to one of two social groups: the Goldens–the beautiful, popular, and equally hateful–and the Nons, short for non-Goldens, or generally nonexistent. New-girl-in-town Lissy James struggles not only with this rigid hierarchy, but also with an extrasensory perception that allows her to see various “colors” surrounding other people. As Lissy’s “Sight” becomes more acute, she begins to realize that evil lurks in the halls of her school, and, with the help of her sister and two acquaintances, she saves several classmates and family members from certain death. While combining the supernatural and chick-lit/mean-girl genres into one novel makes for an interesting premise, this book is plagued with structural problems. Some of the plot lines are extraneous, and there is so much going on that the story becomes muddled. The actions of several characters are either unconvincingly explained or ignored altogether. Finally, the book is overly long, and the incessant references to auras slow down the action. Teens interested in supernatural fiction are better served by one of Lois Duncan’s engaging titles. Those who enjoy reading about popularity struggles should try Jerry Spinelli’s Stargirl (Knopf, 2000) or Gail Giles’s Shattering Glass (Millbrook, 2002).–Rebecca M. Jones, Fort Myers-Lee County Library, FL

Gr 6-9–As this sequel to The Secret of Castle Cant (Little, Brown, 2004) opens, Lucy Wickwright and her half sister, Pauline von Cant, are seeking refuge from the two men who want to be their regents and are involving the Barony of Cant in a civil war. Before she learned of her parentage and heritage, Lucy served as Pauline’s maid, and the two girls are best friends and loyal “only to each other.” Helped by a small group of friends, they attempt to travel unobserved through the country as they learn a variety of secrets related to their past and the Barony’s economy. A confusion of plots, schemes, disguises, and escapes follows as the girls try to sabotage the gum trade that lies behind the revolution and claim rule in their own right. Wordplay, a lively narrative voice, absurd situations, and exaggerated characters add humor to the story. Unfortunately, it fails to progress over the course of the novel, leaving the characters more knowledgeable but still on the run at the predictable conclusion. Fans of the first book will enjoy reading more about Pauline, Lucy, and their friends, but they’ll be left waiting for more. The focus on illegitimacy and the questionable parentage of both girls adds an edge of maturity to the otherwise innocent fun.–Beth L. Meister, Pleasant View Elementary School, Franklin, WI

Gr 4-7–When her parents, the king and queen of Wonderland, are killed by her Aunt Redd, Alyss Heart escapes by jumping into the Pool of Tears. Her jump takes her to Victorian Oxford, where she emerges from a puddle, lives as a street urchin, and is eventually adopted by Reverend and Mrs. Liddell. Unable to make anyone believe her fantastic story, she finally confides in Charles Dodgson, who says he will write a book about her. When she discovers that Alice’s Adventures Underground is full of make-believe, and not her story or her real name, she sadly resigns herself to life as a Victorian girl of privilege. Meanwhile, back in Wonderland, the Alyssians form a resistance movement and attempt to overthrow the despotic Redd. For years, Hatter Madigan searches the world for Alyss so she can return to Wonderland as Queen. In the end, the Alyssians prevail, but only after much graphic bloodshed and many brutal battles involving card soldiers who transform into warriors, chessmen, blades that whirl and slash, vicious Jabberwocks, and even carnivorous roses. The tale is clever and flows like an animated film where action is more important than character development. However, it bears little resemblance to Lewis Carroll’s original story. Beddor has usurped the characters and setting and changed them for his own purposes, keeping only the story’s frame and not much of that. Still, the fantasy will appeal to those readers who like battles and weapons and good vs. evil on and on and on.–Barbara Scotto, Michael Driscoll School, Brookline, MA

Gr 5-8–Prince Perryndon wants nothing more than a chance to be a scholar, while his father wishes only for a warrior son. When Perryn stumbles across a prophecy that might help him to destroy the black dragon devastating the kingdom, he runs away from the castle hoping to find the elements described in the forbidden book of magic–a true bard, a unicorn, and a unique sword. With the king’s men searching for him (and someone trying to kill him), Perryn discovers that nothing is as he imagined. The bard is in prison, the unicorn is terrified of every danger, and the sword is rusty. The prince must use his wits to discover his true worth in order to save the kingdom and himself. Bell has crafted a coming-of-age story that engages adolescents who are themselves trying to determine the path to selfhood. Prophecy has all the essentials of a good fantasy adventure and moves quickly enough to connect with reluctant readers.–Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WI

Gr 8 Up–Bowsher convincingly develops the unique voice of a young woman sliding from being a San Francisco suburban “Valley Girl” into homelessness. At the opening of the story, Ashley is an abrasive, catty snob just days away from high school graduation. Soon enough, however, the police are knocking on her door. Apparently the family’s life of luxury has been financed by embezzled funds, and her mother has disappeared without a word. Ashley doesn’t know what to believe, but she has no time to sit around wondering. She has to go to work, her boyfriend isn’t as loyal as she might have hoped, and all the while she’s dealing with the criminal investigation. By the end, Ashley has shed her judgmental pretension and is simply a feisty young woman with a tough exterior. This captivating story reads more like a journal than a novel. Though it is not high literature, it is a quick, easy read.–Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

Gr 9 Up–In Sewer Rats, Jim and his friends are part of a league of paintballers who play in the town’s sewers. When a member of their team sabotages a match, her mates try to confront her. She runs into the tunnels when a rainstorm hits, and they must find her before the water rises. Suspense builds as Jim tries to overcome his fear in the drainpipes. In Chat Room, Linda, a quiet underclassman, strikes up conversations with a mysterious Cyrano in her school’s new monitored chat room, only to find that her visions of the real Cyrano are far from the truth. Butcher hammers home warnings about online predators, and the chat dialogue is less than authentic with its complete sentences and absence of lingo. Real chatters will see past the façade, but the topic will generate some interest. With short chapters and written in an easy style, both books will appeal to reluctant readers. Adequate choices for heavily circulating paperback collections.–Delia Carruthers, Sunset Ridge Middle School, West Jordan, UT

Gr 7-10–Amateur photographer Bernie, 16, tries desperately to keep life together for her two younger siblings despite their alcoholic single mother’s string of broken promises, lost jobs, and lack of stable housing. When Celia goes on a bender and calls off her wedding to boring nice-guy Mario, it nearly breaks Bernie’s spirit. Then she discovers a document that details her mother’s inheritance of a run-down lodge on a lake. The woman had secretly put it up for sale, but Bernie threatens to call social services and have her siblings taken away if Celia refuses to move there. Mother and daughter work hard to make the place habitable, and the younger children begin to thrive. Neighbors help out, Celia stops drinking, and life seems to be improving despite many rough spots. But why can’t Bernie lose her fear and begin to trust Celia, and why does the teen’s anger threaten her relationships? Buffie excels at creating credible characters and placing them in situations that allow them to grow and develop.–Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

Gr 4-6–In this companion to Codell’s Sahara Special ( Hyperion, 2003), fifth-grader Paris McCray reveals what she has discovered about life in the process of taking piano lessons from Mrs. Rosen, a Holocaust survivor with a sense of humor. The girl’s parents; her four older brothers; and the cast of characters from Miss Pointy’s class, including best friends Sahara and Luz, keep the proceedings lively. Paris is an explorer of her universe, and words (often italicized) matter to her; her engaging narrative voice is noteworthy for its perseverance, charm, and wit. Her naïveté and, at times, ignorance cause her to make mistakes, but she begins to understand the choices of those around her. Youngest brother Michael’s unwillingness to hit a bullying girl back; Mrs. Rosen’s gift to her of a yellow star; and the ethical requirements of her own project, the Extreme Readers Club, ask much of Paris, but she is more than up to their challenges. Codell skillfully balances sadness with moments of laughter to keep readers hooked throughout. Touching and funny in equal measure, this short novel addresses innocence, guilt, and atonement and will have an intense impact on readers.–Carol A. Edwards, Douglas County Libraries, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 8 Up-Darrow began this tale of poverty in rural Arkansas in The Painters of Lexieville (Candlewick, 2003). Abandoned by their mother, Sissy Lexie, 16, and her younger brother, Boy, are looking for a lot more beauty than they are finding. They lived with their older sister, Raynell, until her husband lost his job; endured several foster homes; and are currently residing with the Fowlers, who force the teens to collect trash for their business. Although unhappy, the siblings find comfort in being together. When Boy gives Sissy a specially designed tattoo, their enraged foster parents beat them and they run away to St. Louis to find Raynell, who can now care for them. Settled into high school, they become “art bandits,” roaming rooftops at night to spray their self-chosen “tags”-Skye and Atenz. When tragedy strikes, Sissy spirals downward into depression and self-destruction. Finally reconnecting with her belief in the importance of art in day-to-day life, she revives an old dream of attending art school and begins to face her grief. Sissy’s poignant first-person narrative blends staccato verses with free-flowing prose. Readers will appreciate the characters’ search for identity and efforts to find beauty in places not obvious. Suggest this title to readers who enjoyed Kathe Koja’s The Blue Mirror (Farrar) or Martine Leavitt’s Heck Superhero (Front St, both 2004), novels that also depict hope through art and self-expression on gritty urban streets.-Kelly Czarnecki, Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg, NC

Gr 7-10–Three friends, Les Bambinos Dangereuses, are on the outs–but not for long. Once Ronnie, Fleur, and Claude realize that their rift is all because of evil Cressida Sleeth and Panama Goodyear, they patch things up and carry out their plans to spend the summer in Destiny Bay. To earn their stay, the British teens hire on as waitstaff at an exclusive hotel. After adjusting to a grueling schedule and hard work, they begin looking forward to the Big Beach Booty Quake Party, which is the ultimate motivation for going to Destiny Bay. But then Claude learns that she will have to move unless her mom can come up with a sizable amount of money. A possible solution presents itself in a modeling contest, where the winner will earn 10,000 pounds. Claude’s devious ways of beating out the competition bring this already humorous book to the level of laugh-out-loud funny. Other events include the discovery of a mysterious ghost in their apartment, a new surfer boyfriend, and the reappearance of Cressida and Panama. Dent writes a fast-paced, plot-driven page-turner. Girls who enjoy books by Louise Rennison, who shares Dent’s wildly sarcastic wit, will find another favorite author in this series.–Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 4-7–The action is palpable and swift in this gripping adventure set in 1903. Nathalie Vaughan, 13, and her mother live in the Northwest Territory of Canada. Many townspeople work in the mine at Turtle Mountain. One morning, Nathalie is jolted awake by a rock slide that buries part of the town and its inhabitants, and also traps a group of miners inside the mountain. She and others work frantically to find survivors, and the teen heroically saves a baby. In addition to a description of her part in the rescue, there are perspectives from the trapped miners and from a railroad worker trying to stop an oncoming train. Readers are not spared the terror and impact of the rock slide, and the protagonist must wrestle with the horror that she has witnessed. An author’s note contains information about and photographs of the real incident on which the story is based. Fans of the “Dear America” and “My Name Is America” series (both Scholastic) will appreciate this remarkable tale of survival.–Kristen Oravec, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 9 Up–A gothic novel set in a magical Britain. Aggie is a village teen who has gotten a position as a companion to Leah, a ward of the Master of Murkmere Hall. But, as she enters the estate, there are several bad portents from the Birds, which the people believe are divine beings. Once there, Aggie finds herself caught in an insular world of deceit, decay, and forbidden knowledge. Leah is a person whose mood varies from day to day. Their complicated and realistic relationship serves as an anchor for the novel, allowing readers to immerse themselves in this world. As Aggie continues to work in the manor, she realizes that everything she has been brought up to believe about books and religion may not be true. Her teacher aunt is involved in national politics, her suitor is not the slow village boy she thought him to be, and the suave man who hired her may be at the heart of the evil that surrounds her. This engaging, well-paced story is filled with believable characters who behave in a convincing manner. There is plenty of suspense, and readers will not be able to put the book down until they discover the fate of Leah and Aggie.–Tasha Saecker, Menasha Public Library, WI

Gr 9 Up–Angie, 16, wishes she were thin, so she tries to stop eating, which doesn’t work. She wishes her mother wouldn’t marry sleazy Rudy, but he’s just moved in with all his stuff. She wishes the popular kids would leave her alone, but they’ve called her “Lezzylard” since seventh grade. Her friend, Shelby, is an out lesbian. Only one of their friend Heather’s breasts has developed, and her parents are anxious to have her “fixed.” When Angie finally tells off perfect, popular Mindy, she is sexually assaulted by Mindy’s boyfriend in the girls’ room. What follows is a delicious revenge scheme, masterminded by Shelby’s older sister, a tornado of rage, snappy comebacks, and hairspray. Every one of Embree’s characters is fully realized, complex, and engaging. Angie is disgusted by her body and confused about her sexuality, but never hates herself. She’s alternatively wicked and woeful, and her commentary on everything from sex and drugs to glitter mascara is spot on. The novel is perfectly paced, and Angie’s thoughtful, gut-tearing, hilarious narrative builds the plot quietly. The author masterfully uses the rednecks, Red Lobsters, Dumpsters, and strip malls of working-class suburbia to create an ugly yet alluring post-punk setting.–Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 4-6–Having survived the machinations of an evil genius in The 7 Professors of the Far North (Putnam, 2005), the same kids and their professorial guardians are involved in a new adventure. This time, they have joined up with a novice airplane enthusiast, Amy McAirdrie. When Professors Sharpe and Ampersand and their wards Ben, Zara, Sam, and Marcia decide to help her with the plane’s construction, they have no idea that their every move is being watched. A shadowy organization known as Noctarma is eyeing the airplane very closely. When a series of misunderstandings leads to the kids running, or rather flying, for their lives, they find themselves in a race to discover the secret of antigravity before the bad guys do. Escaping from Noctarma’s clutches repeatedly, the plucky children must elude capture and figure out whom to trust before it’s too late. The writing is consistently upbeat and energetic even if it bogs down a little during the airplane passages. Fans of Fardell’s previous book will enjoy following the characters and their wacky high-speed adventures. New readers, on the other hand, will have a difficult time sorting out the large cast of characters and their backgrounds.–Elizabeth Bird, New York Public Library

Gr 6-9–In Last Shot (Knopf, 2005), 13-year-old amateur sportswriters Susan Carol Anderson and Stevie Thomas uncovered a plot to throw a championship game in the NCAA Final Four in New Orleans. Now they meet once again, this time in New York City to help cover the U.S. Open Tennis tournaments. Susan Carol’s uncle, a new agent for an up-and-coming female tennis player, lives in Manhattan and offers them a place to stay. When the Russian tennis sweetheart Nadia Symanova is kidnapped right before her first match, Stevie begins to suspect that Susan Carol’s uncle is involved. The mystery maintains a genuine level of suspense throughout the story. Many superfluous figures are introduced, and it can be difficult to keep them straight, especially when they are referred to by first name in one chapter and last name in another. Although the main characters are predictable, the use of kid-friendly terminology, contemporary personalities in the tennis world, and factual information about the game may appeal to savvy tennis fans.–D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 5-8–Tess Munro, 13, loves soccer. When school sports funding hinges on getting a tax levy voted in, she works hard to make it happen, but her fundraising activities go awry, and she makes an enemy of an imperious classmate. Jillian hates her after her soccer ball hits Bo, on whom Jillian has a crush. When Tess’s team suffers its only loss of the season, she vows to win her last home game, which is on the same day as the election. Her team wins the game, but the levy is voted down. In an abrupt but satisfying ending, Tess raises funds for a pay-for-play team and earns Jillian’s friendship. Seven “soccer chick rules” are dispensed throughout the novel. Although they work well to highlight Tess’s motivation, they would be more effective at the beginning or end of chapters. Girl jocks are the natural audience for Soccer Chick Rules, but it will also appeal to a wider readership. Its hopeful but realistic ending sends an important message to any girl with a passion or a cause.–Tina Zubak, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 8 Up–Teenage sisters Jeannie and Sarah are separated when the Highland Clearances of the 1850s tear their family away from the only home they’ve known. Jeannie sails to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, with their parents and younger siblings to start a new life, while Sarah decides to remain in Scotland with their grandmother. In an age when distance and illiteracy prohibit communication, the girls remain connected solely by pieces of a braid intertwined with one another’s hair. Though seemingly a distant reality from that of today’s teens, this gem of a book ultimately tackles age-old issues of teen pregnancy, death, poverty, and first love in a timeless manner. Frost tells the compelling story using a formal structure consisting of narrative poems in alternating voices, praise poems, and line lengths based on syllabic count. While the inventive form is accomplished and impressive, it’s the easy flow of the verse and its emotional impact that will carry even reluctant readers into the windswept landscape and the hardships and dreams of these two girls.–Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 4-7–Twelve-year-old Gemma is furious, lonely, and homesick after relatives she never knew she had, including a twin brother, show up and take her from the foster family she loves. Her desperate search for a way back home coincides with a chance encounter with a book on saints, and she decides that what she needs is an angel. Her quest leads her to impulsive actions that cause pain and mistrust for her new family, but her feisty spirit gradually wins their loyalty and affection. Gemma’s remarkably believable point of view allows readers to see her own raw emotions, her limited perceptions of the people and events in her life, and the gradual growth she experiences. Fine characterization provides a broad cast, from Gemma’s aunt who loved dancing but became an attorney, to the homeless people the young girl supports in her attempt to gain an angel. The child’s enormous need to verify her birth mother’s love for her is achingly real, and through it adopted children everywhere will recognize her as a kindred spirit. Her engaging narrative will also provide a welcome bridge to an alternate experience for children with intact families.–Faith Brautigam, Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin, IL

Gr 6-9–It is 1497, and young Giacomo does chores for his master, accompanying him when needed and running errands to the merchants of Milan. He also spends much of his time making excuses to those who have commissioned the artist’s work and fending off the many merchants who come trying to collect debts. With smooth words and false promises, the boy keeps them at bay–for the time being. Da Vinci has a commission for a great painting, but he will not work. Why is a mystery, but until he finishes this painting of the Last Supper, he will not be paid. Even worse, the Duke of Milan, whose temper is legendary, is getting impatient. Giacomo worries about starving, about freezing, and about dying by order of the duke or the gentlemen whom Da Vinci insults. But, mostly, he worries about his great master, whom he thinks might be his father. In the beginning of the book, he is chatty and breezy as he introduces his city and surroundings. As the book progresses, he becomes more serious, and readers can see him maturing and becoming more responsive to the atmosphere and problems around him. Grey seamlessly blends fact and research about the inventor/artist with imagination. The basic time line and characters of the story fit with what we know of Da Vinci’s life. Easily readable, this novel incorporates adventure and mystery with history.–Heather E. Miller, Homewood Public Library, AL

Gr 6 Up–Seth’s family has just moved to Galveston, TX, and the 17-year-old is discontented with his life. His mother makes him look after his little sister, his younger brothers are completely annoying, and his father wants him to go to college rather than let him follow his dream of being a carpenter. Still, things get off to a pretty good start. His uncle finds him a summer job as a carpenter’s helper, he meets a girl he likes, and Galveston is a fun place to live. However, on September 8, 1900, everything changes when a deadly storm devastates the area. This coming-of-age story describes how Seth struggles to reach safety, works for his own survival and that of others, and comes to terms with change and loss. Readers feel his concern over his loved ones during the horrifying hours when no one knows who has survived. Through his eyes, they see the destruction caused by one of the worst storms in U.S. history. Hale has captured well the essence of this natural disaster by using numerous personal accounts and journals and molding them into Seth’s narrative. Fact and fiction are blended effortlessly together in an exciting read that leaves readers with a sense of hope. An author’s note includes photos of the hurricane’s aftermath.–Janet Hilbun, Texas Woman’s University, Denton

Gr 6-10–A companion to The Goose Girl (2003) and Enna Burning (2004, both Bloomsbury). Enna and Isi’s friend Razo is small and bullied; he has always considered himself pretty useless, so he is thrilled to be chosen as one of a hundred Bayern soldiers accompanying an ambassador on a peacekeeping mission to the Tiran capital. Tirans lost the war with Bayern, largely due to Enna’s forbidding ability to burn people, and their army was shamed. When Razo discovers burned bodies, he first fears that Enna has reneged on her promise to stop using her powers, then realizes that she isn’t guilty. In this part mystery, part coming-of-age story, Razo learns why he is so important to the king’s mission. He befriends Lady Dasha, the daughter of the ambassador who was sent in exchange to Bayern. Like Enna and Isi, she is a young woman with elemental powers. The burner is exposed and captured; peace is assured, as is the romance between Razo and Dasha. Hale’s portrayal of a group of extremist Tirans for whom war is sacred and putting one’s life in peril is honorable connects the story’s medieval folkloric setting with today’s news in a chilling way. As in the companion books, this high fantasy is rich in detail and lyrical in writing. While it helps to have read the two previous books, River Secrets stands on its own. But fans of the genre will no doubt rejoice in immersing themselves in this magical world by reading all three.–Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 8 Up–A rather ordinary tale of teen pregnancy. Ali Parker is a bright, middle-class, suburban girl headed for college. She and her boyfriend are usually careful about birth control, but she ends up pregnant after one lapse. She schedules an abortion but can’t go through with it. When she tells her parents, they are disappointed but supportive, as are her friends and teachers. Ali weathers the ups and downs of pregnancy, befriends another expecting teen, and deals with her sometimes loving, sometimes distant boyfriend as she tries to plan for an uncertain future. She meets a perfect couple who want to adopt her child but wonders if she can bring herself to part with the baby. Ali could be almost any young woman struggling with this issue, which gives the story a bland feel, as does the adequate but rarely sparkling prose. Angela Johnson’s The First Part Last (2003), Rachel Cohn’s Gingerbread (2002, both S & S), and Sarah Dessen’s Someone Like You (Viking, 1998) are more notable novels about the subject. Nevertheless, Hart’s solid first-person account of a teenager’s life-altering experience will draw in readers, who will most likely stick around to find out whether Ali makes the predictable choice.–Miranda Doyle, San Francisco Public Library

Gr 7 Up–In this adventure-filled sequel to The Saint of Dragons (HarperCollins, 2004), descendants of the famed St. George fight to rid the world of dragon demons responsible for all of the world’s problems. The demons have human forms, their serpentine beings seen only by the Dragonhunters, a species that includes Aldric St. George and his teenage son, Simon. Here, they must find Alaythia, a magician who assists them in their struggles and a love interest for Aldric. Their quest involves them in life-threatening combat with a series of dragons that has unleashed such evils as sweatshops, medical science gone awry, and eating disorders. Their search leads them to Japan, where they form a shaky alliance with descendants of the ancient samurai warriors led by Taro and his magician wife, whose son Kyoshi is Simon’s cousin. Their common goal is the destruction of the Dragon of Japan and Dragon of Bombay. After many botched attempts caused largely by cultural differences, East and West reluctantly unite to defeat the evil serpents. Hightman has created an adventure filled with twists and turns that will keep readers riveted until the conclusion. Grotesque and violent scenes may repel some. This is definitely a plot-driven book, though some complex characters add to the depth of the complicated story. Fans of Christopher Paolini’s Eragon (Knopf, 2003) will surely find it a good choice.–Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 7-10–Bathtubs dripping with blood, a monkey’s ear instead of a monkey’s paw, a cannibalistic chef looking for new ingredients, and a camera that kills the subject of its photographs are some of the elements in these selections. While the stories probably won’t make most readers want to sleep with the lights on, they have their own brand of creepiness. As with most short-story collections, this one is uneven, and the book will appeal mainly because of the author. However, it lacks the sophistication of truly horrifying horror.–Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Gr 8 Up–A traditional story of teenage angst with a refreshing twist. When Adrian’s dad moves the family to Rocky Waters, Ontario, the 11th grader feels angry and out of place. Then he meets Gwen, with whom he feels a powerful, mysterious connection. Her presence empowers him to hear other people’s thoughts; his presence allows her to see tragic events in the future. The psychic duo tries to rescue people from impending tragedies. In the end, they discover that The Power can only be used for good if they work together and have the right intentions. Told in alternating voices, Powers is broken into bite-sized and easily digestible segments. This fast-paced plunge into ESP effectively blends the occult with the turmoil of adolescent romance.–Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

Gr 5-8–Ben, 8, and Jennet, 12, have been bouncing in and out of various foster homes for the past two years because of Ben’s unique ability–he sees ghosts. They are now being sent to an old friend of their deceased parents and are determined to make this home permanent. As part of that goal, Ben is supposed to hide his gift and not do anything “weird.” Then they meet their foster parent, 92-year-old Alice Boston. She is eccentric and loving, and accepts Ben’s power without a blink–until an evil force appears, and her friends begin dying one by one. It is then up to Alice and the children to save the town and themselves. Witches is a dark but delightful read that involves ghosts, evil magicians (and good ones), and an ancient curse. There is just the right amount of suspense to make the book creepy, but not enough to make it truly scary for younger readers. The characters are believable and likable, and Jarvis has easily straddled the line between (mild) horror and fantasy. Give this to lovers of R. L. Stine for an equally satisfying but more challenging read.–Saleena L. Davidson, South Brunswick Public Library, Monmouth Junction, NJ

Gr 8-11–Tiny senior-class genius/spitfire Jane Jarvis is seriously out of place in St. Teresa’s Preparatory School for Girls in Providence, RI. Although she considers herself to be above the school’s traditions, she wants to help her clueless best friend, Ally, obtain a good freshman sister at the annual Big-Little ceremony. Alas, when Ally forcefully vomits in front of the entire student body, she needs more than Jane’s help. After a brief period of avoiding her schoolmates, all of a sudden she’s cool, gorgeously attired, confident, and sophisticated. Well, everyone knows that high school is hell, so it makes semi-sense that demons abound, and Ally has sold her soul to one. Jane is determined to save her. Odd things start happening, from giant hailstorms to self-igniting textbooks, and Jane sadly bids farewell to her family and throws herself into mortal–and immortal–danger. Just when all seems lost, a believable plot twist ties the ends together. Well-developed characters are Johnson’s forte, and readers will delight in meeting the heroine’s friends and, especially, her family. The scenes in the Catholic high school are hilarious without making a mockery of religion (for example, Sister Rose Marie gives Jane a demerit for “lack of caution in adverse conditions” for rushing through the lobby when the power goes out). Buy multiple copies for your Johnson fans or you’ll end up with a long reserve list.–Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

Gr 4-8–Fans of Harry Potter will enjoy exploring the magical world of Ulverscote, which is every bit as enchanting as that of Hogwarts, though humbler by far. Part coming-of-age tale, part fantastical mystery, this sixth entry in the series is chock-full of interesting characters. Gammer Pinhoe is a manipulative and mentally unstable matriarch who secretly starts an all-out witch war with the neighboring clan. Her plan is discovered by her granddaughter, Marianne, a young witch beginning to come into her own magical powers. Marianne meets up with Cat, nine-lived enchanter and resident of Chrestomanci Castle, as well as Chrestomanci himself. They find a mysterious egg in Gammer’s attic, which the girl cares for until it hatches into a charming baby griffin. Meanwhile, Chrestomanci keeps a watchful eye over all of this as he tries to figure out the mystery of the enchanted woods. In the end, Marianne uses her inner strength to help Cat free the creatures in the woods, and Chrestomanci restores peace among the witch families of Ulverscote. Although some children may be put off by the complicated plot and unfamiliar wording and references, Jones does a good job of entertaining readers with an interesting new world, strong characters, and a satisfying ending.–Nicki Clausen-Grace, Carillon Elementary School, Oviedo, FL

Gr 7-10–Laura, a scholarship student at an elite high school in New York City, is surrounded by superficial, backstabbing rich girls, all obsessed with having the best Sweet Sixteen party. Despite the differences in lifestyles, she has a solid group of friends, as well as a best friend, Whitney. Everything is running smoothly until the new girl, Sophie, arrives. She is extremely rich, pretty, and fashionable, and wiggles her way right into Laura’s group of friends and disrupts the equilibrium of the clique. Before long, everyone is fighting. Laura is the only one who remains true to herself and, with the help of a certain boy, learns about the importance of friendship. Designer names are dropped throughout and the girls are fixated on their weight, capturing some of the issues that teenage girls obsess over in America. But underneath all the fluff and superficiality are lessons on friendship and love.–Kristen M. Todd, Middle Country Public Library, Centereach, NY

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