Grades 5 & Up

Gr 4–6—When three New England sixth graders discover ghosts hidden inside books in their local public library, they enlist the help of the librarian and unravel the means by which the spirits were trapped. An evil scientist imprisoned them in the early 1900s on a fictional island in the Indian Ocean, and then brought the books to New England, where they were donated to the library upon his death. Several halftone illustrations appear in the section in which the ghosts are first introduced, giving the look of a face peering out from the text, which adds a creepy touch. The subplot involves the children's censorship-happy teacher who wants all unpleasant books removed from the library. While based on an interesting concept, the story is riddled with confusing touches. The ghosts speak English backwards, but are from an island where it is not spoken. One of the books involved contains a reference to nuclear weapons, but it would have been published in the 1930s at the latest. A laugh-out-loud-funny joke requires an understanding of Voltaire's Candide. Flashbacks to the deaths of the spirits are included in the text and are occasionally brutal, though not graphic. The use of present tense to tell their backstories yields fairly confusing results. While there is an inclination to advocate for a book that has a strong anticensorship librarian as a main character, this book misses the mark.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 6–9—This sequel to The Printer's Devil (Little, Brown, 2005) continues the adventures of Mog (Imogen) and Nick, twin orphans in early-19th-century England. Having spent most of their childhood apart under difficult conditions, the now 13-year-old siblings have been reunited and are living with Sir Septimus, a distant relative of their mother, at his rural estate. The youngsters investigate the death of their governess, the whisperings of superstitious villagers, and the return of Damyata, a mysterious man from India who is somehow connected to their past. They soon discover that Sir Septimus has been involved in numerous misdeeds, stumble upon a murderous conspiracy, and end up unraveling many family secrets. Bajoria creates a readable mix of historical fiction, mystery, and adventure. A slow start eventually builds to an exciting climax in which the local ritual of making straw "guys" and burning them becomes a stage for murder. Although the pace lags in some places and races in others, the eerie setting and macabre characters provide enough chills to overcome some uneven plotting. While this novel does not stand alone, readers of the first book will want to know the protagonists' fate. These titles, though not essential purchases, would be good picks for those too young for Philip Pullman's "Sally Lockhart" mysteries (Knopf).—Caitlin Augusta, The Darien Library, CT

Gr 10 Up—Two years after the events in Harley, Like a Person (Winslow, 2000), a worldlier but not necessarily more prudent Harley, now 16, is living a fairy-tale existence in New York City with her biological father, Sean, when another crisis erupts. Her period is five days late. Told in the space of one eventful day, the story follows Harley as she is forced to reexamine the very relationships upon which she has come to depend. Sean wavers between careless neglect and sage advice, her boyfriend is a rising rock star not ready to deal with the consequences of his actions, and her mother has basically disowned her. Also crammed into this one turbulent day are a pregnancy test, a newfound grandmother, several altercations, a breakup, and a gallery exhibition. Details are introduced and dismissed at breakneck pace. Only occasional glimpses of the old Harley reconnect readers to the emotional rawness of the first book. This segment in the teen's life includes many scenes that she refers to as a "time, long ago," creating disjointed flashbacks, and making it feel as though there is an installment missing. The primary connector is Harley's passion for her art and her ability to transform her circumstances in the face of adversity. In the end, she is neither pregnant, nor any wiser. True resolution is again elusive as seemingly significant details are glossed over in favor of a neat ending. This continuation of Harley's story should only find an audience with loyal fans.—Erin Schirota, Bronxville Public Library, NY

Gr 6–10—Jiaan, Kavi, and Soraya—the three young Farsalans attempting to wrest their fallen nation from the conquering Hrum—are back in this final installment of Bell's trilogy. Invoking the name of the legendary Sorahb, they lead the tiny, ill-trained army, organize the peasants, and practice magic as taught by the mysterious, desert-living Suud. The sword that they forge represents both their discovery of the secrets of Hrum steel as well as their ability to create a new, unified Farsala. The young people work according to their particular talents, learning to cooperate and to forgive past transgressions. Primarily, they learn that the world is not a place of black and white, but gray—enemies can be noble and supposed friends can deceive. How one proceeds in the face of that knowledge is the main thrust of this novel. Readers who enjoyed the earlier adventures will be happy to see this epic to its conclusion, but the book does not stand on its own. No attempt is made to recap any previous information. The seamless interweaving of the ancient heroic poem of Sorahb into the downfall of Farsala gave the first novel depth, and its loss is heavy in books two and three. Purchase where the earlier titles have a following.—Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WI

Gr 5–8—In The Revenge of the Shadow King (Scholastic, 2005), the Grey Griffins had to work together to save their hometown, Avalon, and the rest of the world from certain annihilation at the hands of Morgan Le Fey. This time, the four friends travel to Scotland where they…have to save the world from certain annihilation at the hands of Morgan Le Fey. Narratives that would be fun with groups of friends in role-playing games come across here as trite and contrived. The surfeit of strung-together clichés and hyperbole stifles the story so much that it becomes practically unreadable.—Farida S. Dowler, Mercer Island Library, WA

Gr 6 Up—Fifteen-year-old Mia Day's life changes drastically when her parents separate. Suddenly Mom is working more and isn't home to cook dinner. Mia's dad has taken up with a sexy Peruvian woman. Her brother, Allen, is acting out. All is not bad in her life, however. Her brother's friend Julian, whom Mia has had a crush on since forever, begins to notice her. She's finally old enough to learn how to drive. Her dad takes her on father-daughter "dates." Finally, Mia's shrink enables her to break through the logjam of repressed emotions she's had about the divorce and to begin to grieve her loss. Divorce and first love are old themes, but the author's spare style, her likable characters, and the witty voice she's given her protagonist set this novel apart. Its short chapters should make it popular with reluctant readers.—Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 7–10—After their parents' death, studious 15-year-old Mado becomes the legal ward of her irresponsible 20-year-old sister. Before a year has passed, Patty reveals she is several months pregnant, a development that the sisters hide lest Mado be sent to foster care. Once Mado's exams are finished, they leave Paris to spend August in their family summer home in southern France, where they fall in love with brothers vacationing from Amsterdam. When Patty's baby is born, Mado steps up to provide primary care for mother and infant, but Patty fails to bond with her child, and a week later she abandons him and her sister. When the baby's father shows up and learns of his fatherhood for the first time, he drives Mado and the baby back to Paris, where they find a despondent Patty. After raging arguments, she decides to keep the infant and shared custody is arranged. Mado is a believable if overburdened teen, juggling the anxieties of schoolwork with domestic responsibilities and an unpredictable guardian. Her experience of falling in love for the first time is especially tender and innocent, yet she is also the responsible one who buys a book about pregnancy and childbirth while Patty first denies, then ignores, her pregnancy. Bondoux writes in an engaging style that captures the flavor of life in current-day France. The plot development, however, is jumpy and overly episodic. The ending falls into place too simply and neatly, with little explanation of Patty's transformation from party girl to responsible mother.—Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 6–8—For reluctant readers and those who are struggling with language, this book provides the perfect melding of text and content. The plot is fast moving and the content is delivered on a 3.0 reading level. Some middle-grade friends have taken it upon themselves to be investigators. Their school has been undergoing some thefts of late, with lunch swiping and valuable books missing from the library, and these students mean to get to the bottom of it. While solving the missing lunch mystery, the friends land in detention, which takes place in the library, and they are able to begin their second investigation. This part of the story does not really demonstrate being a responsible investigator. While one teacher cautions against vigilantism, the kids accuse a teacher, the librarian, and, finally, agree to pay $6K on an online auction in order to catch the perpetrator. Still, this is an entertaining and easy-to-read choice.—Emily Garrett, Armstrong Elementary School, Sachse, TX

Gr 9 Up—Like its predecessor, Bloodline (Penguin/Razorbill, 2005), this story is written in journal format, with entries by several characters. It opens with the coming-of-age in the 1900s of Quincey Harker, heir to Vlad Tepes, and his initiation into his vampire heritage. It expands into the love story of two people never meant to be together but who are passionately drawn to one another. Mary Seward returns to England to take up her nursing profession and to care for her ailing father. Still recovering from her nightmarish trip to Transylvania, she is afraid of the dark and sees vampires everywhere. When people around her begin to die from a mysterious virus, she fears a vampire may be involved. Readers familiar with the legend of Dracula will enjoy the tie-ins with Vlad Tepes and Van Helsing, and they will be consumed by the struggles of the well-delineated characters, as well as the many plot twists and turns. This novel about good, evil, and the gray areas in between will be a favorite with fans of the vampire genre.—June H. Keuhn, Corning East High School, NY

Gr 9 Up—Under normal circumstances, Maggie Quinn would want nothing to do with the vicious, elite clique at her high school. But when the jocks and their girlfriends start falling prey to a series of situations ranging from embarrassing to potentially fatal, not to mention reeking of sulfur, the school newspaper reporter can't ignore the story. In addition to being a Nancy Drew wannabe, Maggie has inherited her grandmother's sixth sense, as evidenced by the demon appearing in her dreams. Although she is initially reluctant to believe that anything supernatural is going on, her partnership with a paranormal-studies college student who is in one of her father's classes eventually leads her to a salt-throwing showdown with the demon and his minions at her senior prom. Maggie's transformation into a butt-kicking demon hunter is well drawn as is the budding romance with her partner. The pair launch into a routine set of investigations to reveal a weak backstory accounting for the origins of the demon that will not compel readers to suspend disbelief. The main draw of this book, however, is Maggie's sarcastic tone, which is dripping with wit on nearly every page. Sharp writing and a satirical portrayal of the high school social scene make this an enjoyable read in the vein of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."—Emily Rodriguez, Alachua County Library District, Gainesville, FL

Gr 9 Up—In this final installment in the series, Cyd Charisse, high school graduate, rejects a marriage proposal from her surfer boyfriend, Shrimp, who relocates to New Zealand with his parents, and follows her own dream of a new life in Manhattan. Tossed back into the life she first sampled in Gingerbread (S & S, 2002) when she visited her father, she is determined to find her niche in the city that promises to deliver the "perfect espresso shot" she craves. Readers will once again be captivated by Cyd's hip language and sophisticated take on life. She and her New York family, including her gay, cupcake-baking half brother and ambitious, man-hunting half sister, are perfect foils for one another. She dominates the novel with her strong, effervescent personality, and readers are drawn inside the mind of this unforgettable young woman. Fans of the Cyd/Shrimp love story will not be disappointed with this thoroughly satisfying conclusion to the saga.—Caryl Soriano, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—Vivien Leigh Reid's first forays into acting, detailed in Introducing Vivien Leigh Reid: Daughter of the Diva (2005) and Now Starring Vivien Leigh Reid: Diva in Training (2006, both Griffin), ended in disaster as her starring role on a TV show led to a big head and her eventual dismissal. Now that her actress-mother is engaged to a producer, Leigh has been offered a role in his new TV show, Freak Force. Eager to prove that she can avoid the diva syndrome, she jumps at the chance to reform her reputation. The role turns out to be more challenging than she expected: she is a humanoid, part female college freshman and part warthog, and doing her own stunts is complicated by an unwieldy costume. Her relationships are complicated, too: her male costars don't want to work with her, her evil future stepsisters are determined to make her life miserable, and her mother is planning a wedding. To complicate things further, she falls for one of her costars. Leigh's first-person narrative (including fantasy sequences written in script format) is engaging. Fans of Meg Cabot's "The Princess Diaries" series (HarperCollins) will enjoy the inside look at life among the famous and identify with Leigh's romantic travails. Though it's not necessary for readers to be familiar with the previous volumes, they may be in demand once this one hits the shelves.—Laurie Slagenwhite, Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MI

Gr 4–6—Larry appears to be an average dog: loyal, faithful, and eager to please. The fluffy Maltese goes everywhere with his family, and loves nothing more than cuddling up with 10-year-old Cathy. Therefore, Cathy and her father, Tom, are understandably shocked when one day Larry gets hot under the collar and chews them out—in words. The premise is that Larry, and all dogs for that matter, can talk. They are simply more highly evolved beings who recognize the importance of their reticent role in society. Larry's role, however, changes quickly as he embarks on a successful musical career with Tom, who is a songwriter. Hounded by success and pawed by fame, Larry loses sight of his family, friends, and, ultimately, himself. Fortunately, Cathy and Tom eventually intervene and shepherd him home to forgiveness and reconciliation. Underneath its sweet, silly surface, this story touches on several issues that are important to today's children. Divorce, shared custody, new relationships, and difficult choices are all central themes. While the story flows fairly smoothly, the characters feel somewhat flat, and some key cultural references are a bit out of date, something most readers of this age will notice. Still, children begging for stories about pets will find this an entertaining read.—Tracy H. Chrenka, Forest Hills Public Schools, Ada, MI

Gr 4–6—This sequel to The Fire Thief (Kingfisher, 2005) continues the sarcasm-laced tale of the ancient Greek Titan Prometheus, who stole fire from the gods and gave it to humans. The furious Zeus will forgive him only if the Titan can show him a true human hero. In the first book, Prometheus time-travels to the fictional Eden City in 1858, only to discover that the hero he seeks may have lived in the city's past. Now Zeus grows impatient, and has sent his eaglelike Avenger to capture Prometheus. The Avenger is accompanied by the spirits of the Trojan War's Achilles and Paris, plus the monstrous 50-headed Hecatonchires, all fresh from Hades. In the Eden City of 1795, which is under siege by "Wild People" (thinly disguised Native Americans), Prometheus meets Nell Dee, a 12-year-old carnival performer. The two orchestrate a plan to help him escape the Avenger and her to end the town's siege peacefully. Prometheus discovers that the human hero he's been searching for is Nell. The tale will remind readers of both Rick Riordan's "Olympians" series and Terry Pratchett's books, but isn't as successful because of Deary's cynical tone. The story, which toggles between ancient Greece and Eden City, starts out grippingly. But, especially in the Greek chapters, most of the characters spend so much time making anachronistic wisecracks at each other that the book begins to drag.—Walter Minkel, New York Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Suburban Vancouver teen Jay lives for his band's rehearsals. The Lunar Ticks are practicing for an upcoming Battle of the Bands that will match them against a neighboring high school's standout, Indigo Daze. Jay's growing crush on its lead singer adds a layer of romance to the story. The members of the band get into and out of trouble and into and out of fights with one another, and the group is ultimately successful at the competition (even though they don't win). The characters are edgy but likable. The short chapters and fast-paced, rock-themed action will appeal to reluctant and struggling readers, particularly those who are serious about their music.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 9 Up—After a car accident in which Jori is permanently disfigured, the once-popular high school student is now an outcast. She is tormented by her former best friend, Marisa, and a geeky guy named Newt is the only person who talks to her. Her younger sister, Lisa, has been missing for months. The plot veers into fantasy/horror territory when Jori and Newt stumble upon a mysterious house inhabited by the eerie Mr. DePris. Among his amazing objects is a tapestry of stolen dreams, woven by a telepathic spider, Arachnea. Jori discovers that Lisa is captured in it, along with Newt, Marisa, and Marisa's boyfriend, Derek. When Jori enters the tapestry, determined to rescue her sister, the story finally gets moving. She finds Newt and Derek, and the three of them try to outrun the Black River that is killing some of the fantasies, along with the people who are locked in them. Their adventure leads them through several horrific and a few too-good-to-be-true dreamscapes. Jori's rescue mission is only partly successful, leaving an opening for a sequel. The tapestry world is vividly imagined, and the beautiful-fantasies-turned-ugly theme is gripping. However, the writing is uneven, and the story has gaps in logic. Also, Arachnea's change from foe to ally and Derek's transformation from a complete jerk into a hero figure are too sudden to be convincing. This book is a decent effort by a new author for teens who like fantasy-world-gone-wrong stories, but Neil Shusterman's Full Tilt (S & S, 2003) is a better choice.—Martha Simpson, Stratford Library Association, CT

Gr 5–7—Grk, a small white dog with black eyes, finds Tim Malt near Tim's London home, setting into motion a series of fantastic, heroic, often fast-paced and sometimes humorous adventures. Grk belonged to Natascha Raffifi, the daughter of Stanislavia's ambassador to England. When a cruel dictator takes control of this small, mountainous country in Eastern Europe, the Raffifis are arrested and returned to their homeland. Tim's parents will not let him keep the dog, and so he sets out to find its owner. His ingenuity gets him from England to Stanislavia, where he is propelled into action that ultimately reunites Grk with Natascha and her brother, Max, and results in their escape from prison. Some characters are caricatures; many are likable and move the events quickly if implausibly to a satisfying resolution. Max, in particular, is used to insert occasional political commentary that seems to foreshadow his future. By novel's end, the children and Grk settle in with the Malts in London, with the promise of another adventure in which the murder of Max and Natascha's parents will be avenged.—Maria B. Salvadore, formerly at Washington DC Public Library

Gr 6–10—This sequel to Corydon & the Island of Monsters (Knopf, 2006) extends the premise of the first book: several monsters have moved to an island and live in uneasy peace with the local humans. As the book opens, goat-footed Corydon, a son of the god Pan, learns that his friend the Minotaur has been kidnapped. He sets out, along with Medusa's son Gorgos, a hydra, two gorgons, and a half-snake-half-girl, to rescue the Minotaur. The party encounters many other characters from Greek mythology during the quest, which ends in Atlantis. While the monster-as-hero theme is creative, plot twists overshadow character development. In addition, the writing is choppy, the time period of the story is unclear, and readers unfamiliar with the events of the first book won't know where this one fits into traditional Greek mythology. Unless your readers are clamoring to know more about Corydon and his companions, save your money for second copies of Rick Riordan's The Lightning Thief (2005) and The Sea of Monsters (2006, both Hyperion/Miramax), which provide an engaging, well-written look at Greek gods and monsters in a contemporary world.—Beth Wright, Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, VT

Gr 9 Up—A companion to Murkmere (Little, Brown, 2006), this gothic fantasy follows the story of Scuff, otherwise known as 102, an orphan who doesn't know if she ever had a real name. When soldiers come looking for her at the remote manor house where she works as a servant, the girl is certain it's for a crime she committed as a small child in the Capital. After escaping, she is aided by some and led astray by others until she finds herself mixed up in a plot to assassinate the son of the Lord Protector. The story is convoluted, with many characters floating in and out, and tends to bog down. Although the writing (particularly the dialect-spiced dialogue) is vivid, it is often difficult to understand the motivation driving many of the characters, including Scuff herself, who is blown by the winds of fate from one bad situation to another. Buy where Murkmere has been popular, but otherwise you can skip this rather turgid fantasy.—Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 4–6—The Stone-Run Country is in peril. The blue jays' Bluewingle tribe and their former friends, the cardinals of the Sunrise tribe, have gone to war. Each side believes the other to have stolen its food and eggs, little suspecting the malicious hawk, Turnatt, along with his hoard of crows and ravens. Now he is intent on forcing all of the local woodbirds to work on his magnificent fortress, and it's up to a variety of brave avians to upset the villain's plans. Their only hope lies in summoning the great warrior, Swordbird, to assist them in their time of need. Fan wrote the book when she was 11 as a response to a world at war; it goes without saying that she is very talented. However, the book essentially reuses old tropes in a new setting, making the plot, pacing, and characters more than a little predictable and, for all of its charms, the story is overly familiar. Dialogue runs to the clunky with lines like, "I'll get you, me and my crew will" and "You'll pay for that, scalawag!" The greatest credit should be given to the illustrator, who took the author's imagery and made it believable as well as attractive.—Elizabeth Bird, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Chill is a talented artist. He also has a disability, a crippled leg. It has been a significant issue in his life, but it has made him a better artist by channeling his frustration. When a campaign ensues to have a mural painted at the front of the school, he is awarded the job. In the meantime, he has an immediate adverse reaction to his new English teacher. Chill's friend Sean, who narrates the story, wants to be a novelist and finds Mr. Sfinkter's attitude below par, yet wants to like him. Sfinkter promises to have one of his "publishers" look at the boy's work, which endears him to Sean but causes a rift between the teens. As the year progresses, the man repeatedly insults students, claiming that he is getting them ready for the real world. Chill's distaste for the man increases. When the mural is finally unveiled, he has painted a mad clown (Sfinkter) squishing the dreams of the kids in the school. The novel offers an interesting portrayal of how a teacher can affect a student's life. It is also a commentary on responsibility and the right and wrong way to approach issues that may come your way. Though it is written for teens in terms of plot and character, the content itself is based on a 3.5 reading level, making it perfect for struggling and reluctant readers.—Emily Garrett, Armstrong Elementary School, Sachse, TX

Gr 6-9—Jenevieve, 13, is dealing with issues that are causing her life to spin out of control. Her mom has just passed away, her little brother is needy, and a woman, Fanny, is moving in on her dad before her mother is even buried. Just when the teen's life is hitting an all-time low, an aunt she never knew she had appears at the funeral. Regardless, her father allows J to spend the summer with Aunt Guin, a philosophizing free spirit who fixes up old houses with her friend Art and then sells them at a profit. J spends the summer camping in the backyard of a fixer-upper, learning life lessons through her aunt's random quotes. The teen's engaging voice is full of sarcasm, dry wit, and angst while her aunt's voice is ethereal and soothing. Unfortunately, the plot has many gaping holes. Aunt Guin's explanation of why she was estranged from the family doesn't ring true, nor does J's father's willingness to send her off for the summer with a virtual stranger. Readers never know who Fanny is or her involvement in the family, and they're likely to wonder about the relationship between Aunt Guin and Art. The adult relationships are sure to leave readers with many unanswered questions. Those looking for stories dealing with loss would be better served by Sharon Creech's Walk Two Moons (HarperCollins, 2004) and Sonya Sones's One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies (S & S, 2004).—Angela M. Boccuzzi-Reichert, Merton Williams Middle School, Hilton, NY

Gr 4–6—The journal that Jillian writes during fifth grade in a rural Australian town has a lot to recommend it and some problems as well. The girl progresses from being an unpopular loner who's envious of the Princesses in class to the center of a group that is mostly outcast boys. They range from socially awkward Nigel to Sam, who needs Jillian's help to complete schoolwork. Except for encouraging comments from her teacher, Mrs. Bright, the entries are all in Jillian's voice and any dialogue is indirect. As a result, it can be hard to distinguish other characters and they end up more as types than real people. Jillian is a wry and entertaining writer. Her description of a disastrous party she throws is very funny. She develops from a somewhat unlikable character into a kind soul. When one of her classmates is caught shoplifting, she gets her friends to write letters to the authorities to support him. A speech she makes up about procrastination is delightful but almost too grown-up. A glossary at the end of the book clarifies Australian slang; it would have been more help at the beginning. Even with it, the difference in tone, customs, and wording may be too much to keep American children interested, which is unfortunate. Although Jillian is a character who takes getting used to, she's definitely worth knowing.—Tina Zubak, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 5–8—The feisty Guatemalan 12-year-old introduced in Bella Balistica and the Temple of Tikal (Milet, 2004) is back for another raucous adventure. This time, her magical pendant transports her to Ethiopia, where she finds her long-lost father, who is calling a summit meeting of creatures sympathetic to their cause from around the world. Together, they are fighting "The Corporation," a front for a secret society of Templar Knights bent on global domination. Along the way, Bella befriends local villagers, is attacked by the leader of the Corporation, and grows more confident with her mystical abilities. She has typical preteen woes about boys, friends, and bullying, but the international travels that she has undertaken in fulfilling her prophesized role are reflected in her concerns about global warming and fair trade. Other social-justice issues are highlighted, but at times transparently. The story has elements of medieval lore, superhuman powers, and creature battles. Unique in its portrayal of a strong heroine who is concerned with some of the more relevant issues of our time, this adventure is sure to find appreciative readers.—Emily Rodriguez, Alachua County Library District, Gainesville, FL

Gr 4–7—Through the first-person narrative of 11-year-old Jesse James MacLean, Harrar creates an honest, if stereotypical look at the 1950s. In a small town outside Philadelphia, fear runs rampant as the second wave of "President Roosevelt's disease" threatens to strike its young victims. Jesse's overprotective mother insists that he stay indoors during the summer of 1954. He spends his days drawing, reading comic books, and making up games. Never quite living up to his "tough-guy" father's expectations, the boy has a special relationship with his grandfather. Jesse's world is turned upside down when Gramps dies, and, despite his mother's diligent efforts, he contracts polio. The grueling muscle exercises that follow are tempered by the frequent visits of a classmate who offers not only friendship, but also encouragement as Jesse invents a comic-strip hero, the Wonder Kid, whose polio has given him special powers of good. Although Jesse's father softens late in the story, he never quite redeems himself. Harrar adeptly maintains a boy's perspective while inserting humor, trivia, and historical information into an otherwise harrowing situation. Winiarski's pen-and-ink sketches are small and scantily placed, yet contribute to the story's lighthearted tone. For a more serious look at the devastating effect of polio, look to Julie Johnston's Hero of Lesser Causes (Tundra, 2003).—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 9 Up—In this sequel to Geography Club (2003) and Order of the Poison Oak (2005, both HarperCollins), told in flip-book format, Russel and Min answer a casting call for extras for an upcoming horror film. Russel's parents have just discovered that he is gay, and he is devastated by their reaction. Also, an old boyfriend who dumped him turns up at rehearsals and wants to get back together; while the attraction is still there, Russel loves his current boyfriend. On the flip side, Min is lonely and wants a new relationship, but she can't decide if she's willing to have one with Leah, who has chosen not to come out for fear of losing her friends. All of this is played out against the backdrop of movie rehearsals. What is intriguing about the book is how very differently these two characters interpret the same events, and how oblivious each one can be to what is happening to the other. Hartinger handles a number of fairly serious issues here with a lighter touch than in The Order of the Poison Oak, and there is a lot of humor in this book. The characters' narrative voices sound authentically teen, and the section in which Russel tells about his coming out to his parents, their reaction, and his subsequent talk with the family priest particularly rings true. Min Wei's story is equally well told. Libraries owning the first two books will definitely want this one.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 7 Up—When he was eight, Alastair leapt from a ski-lift chair. Now 15, he's relatively OK about the ensuing amputation of one leg below the knee, but is livid about being forced to spend the summer in California with his father, "the jerk who ruined our lives," and his new wife. No matter that Skyla is a good-looking fitness fiend, a double amputee, or that she is rich, with a beautiful beach house and employees to meet his every whim: he's not going to be a nice guy, and Dad is going to suffer. Enamored of Jesse, a 15-year-old soap-opera star who happens to be Skyla's niece, Alastair agrees to participate in a celebrity fund-raiser swim/bike/obstacle-course event with her and her on-screen love, Sergio. The crotchety former high school swim coach whom Alastair enlists to put him through a boot-camp-style training regimen will remind some readers of the character in Chris Crutcher's Stotan! (HarperCollins, 1986). And the plot of a recalcitrant teen condemned to the horrors of a glitzy, all-expenses-paid L.A. summer brings to mind Sonya Sones's One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies (S & S, 2004). The plot whirls to the climactic competition, an emotional maelstrom in which the various subplots are resolved, mostly. Some readers will relate to the "hated former parent" syndrome, others to the nouveau riche trappings, while still others might identify with the unique and interesting range of characters. Profanity is sprinkled throughout, but this is basically a decent book in which "boy makes good."—Joel Shoemaker, Southeast Junior High School, Iowa City, IA

Gr 6–9—High-schooler Deet is a good kid but feels alienated at his school in Fairbanks, AK, because his family has less money than his classmates. When his father is arrested for drug possession and sent to prison, his first thought is about what the kids at school will think of him. Reality sets in as life in Deet's family changes dramatically. His mother goes back to work and Deet spends every day after school with his dad. His view of prisons and prisoners begins to change when he learns people's stories. Deet's notebook entries for his English class give readers insight into the internal changes he is experiencing. The teen sees the bleakness of prison life but learns to see the positive effects of his father's incarceration. While the message that prisons aren't necessarily set up to rehabilitate criminals is not subtle, this a good story with a believable main character. The book wraps up a bit quickly with Deet's father's release to a halfway house, but is still satisfying as it doesn't tie things up too neatly.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 6 Up—While serving in Egypt in the rear line alongside Napoleon's artists, 17-year-old French private Jean discovers his passion and talent for drawing. But hungry to prove himself an able soldier like his father, he is severely injured in a battle with the Austrians at Marengo. After this close call, his friend and father-figure, Alain, convinces him to pursue his art and, by a stroke of luck, Jean is commissioned to study under the great painter Jacques-Louis David. He tries desperately to impress the master but continues to grapple with his own insecurities, including his humble upbringing and guilt about leaving the army. The historical emphasis is intentional yet subtle in this dramatic tale of a young man coming of age during the height of Napoleon's empire. Jean's experiences on the battlefield and what he witnesses in the hospital amputee ward are not for the faint of heart, but they are honest. Readers can't help but receive an education on this turbulent period and the brilliance behind David's creations as they are wrapped up in Jean's struggle to find his place in a rapidly changing France.—Kimberly Monaghan, formerly at Vernon Area Public Library, IL

Gr 9 Up—Winifred and Bernie, both quirky and unpopular, meet in eighth grade in New Jersey, become best friends, and later begin to date. Poised to graduate at the top of their class and head to college together, the couple's plans are derailed by the death of Bernie's mother. Grief-stricken, Bernie lets his grades slip and decides to forego college. Winifred chooses UC Santa Barbara, where she quickly abandons her unique identity; becomes Wini; switches majors from nanoscience to communications; and passes her days chasing boys, shopping, and drinking lattes. Convinced that she needs him, Bernie drives across the country only to be essentially ditched upon arrival. Nevertheless he stays and carves out a humble existence, sleeping in the library, sitting in on lectures, and almost being seduced by a graduate student. Told in alternating viewpoints, the novel explores the different paths that can be taken, both by college students and the so-called slackers who do not begin their education the traditional way. Though Wini is quick to pass judgment on Bernie's choice of the La-Z-Boy life, he exceeds the expectations placed on him and chooses a more interesting path. The teens' actions and world are contemporary and very real. Readers curious about the adventures awaiting them in college will enjoy this well-written, believable story of the first year in college. By the end, they'll be anxious to learn the outcome of Bernie and Winifred's reunion and they won't be disappointed.—Jennifer Barnes, Homewood Library, IL

Gr 9 Up—Part problem novel, part historical fantasy, Echoes jumps back and forth between 19th-century New York City and the present. In 1882, Lucy, 16, has been forced by her father to act as a medium in sham séances for the wealthy. Much to her surprise, at her first session she hears the voice of Lindsay, whom she assumes is a spirit. In the present day, Lindsay feels trapped by her alcoholic mother and abusive stepfather. She hides in her closet to avoid their fighting and is surprised when Lucy answers her cries for help. Lindsay gradually discovers that they hear one another only when they are in the same place in their respective times. Eventually the girls unravel the reasons they are able to converse across time, and each one helps the other out of a no-win situation. Lucy can understand Lindsay's use of slang a little too easily, and occasionally it's difficult to accept the plot gyrations by which the two main characters manage to find themselves in the same setting; but it's all good fun, and if readers leave more knowledgeable about the early women's movement in the United States, all the better. Prostitution and the fight to get women ready access to birth control are both discussed. This novel will appeal to fans of Libba Bray's A Great and Terrible Beauty (Delacorte, 2003).—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 5–8—What if just outside of Earth's known atmosphere there sat another layer that was actually a different dimension? Such is the premise for this novel. For as long as she can remember, orphan Hayley has lived sequestered away with her strict grandmother and mysteriously busy grandfather. A chance meeting on an outing lands her in big trouble and she finds herself shipped off to stay with relatives in the country. Here Hayley meets dozens of cousins who invite her to play a strange game. Its object is to go to different places in the mythosphere and retrieve various items while dodging mythological creatures. The plot thickens when she meets her father and learns that he and her mother are both trapped in the mythosphere as punishment for their illicit marriage. Hayley frees them and discovers that she, like all of the other characters in the story, is really a mythological figure who can live in either realm. Meanwhile, the frightening family patriarch, Uncle Jolyon, finds out about the game and comes after the girl, her parents, and her cousins. As he prepares to punish them all, Hayley pierces his chest with a star, causing him to transform into the planet Jupiter. While the beginning parallels The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, the story takes off on its own midway through. There is a whole lot of plot for such a little novel, and readers unfamiliar with mythology won't fully appreciate it.—Nicki Clausen-Grace, Carillon Elementary School, Oviedo, FL

Gr 6 Up—On the day before her 16th birthday, Anita's life starts to change. She has a vision of flying, receives a mysterious and magical book as a present, and travels from modern-day London to the world of Faerie. She discovers that her boyfriend, Evan, is really Edric, servant of the scheming faerie lord Gabriel Drake, and that he has been sent to bring her home. Anita is really Princess Tania, the seventh and youngest daughter of King Oberon, and she has been lost for centuries after experimenting with her power to travel between worlds. Anita/Tania comes to accept her true identity and the joy she has brought to her father and his realm. However, all is not well in Faerie. Queen Titania has disappeared, and Gabriel Drake is somehow involved with her loss. He claims to love Tania and wants to marry her, but is actually interested only in her magical power. While the conclusion resolves Tania's immediate problems, there is ample room for a sequel. This fairy tale meets "Princess Diaries" clearly shows Anita/Tania's confusion about her identity. She is a strong character, and her sisters and their varied powers and personalities are also well drawn. The teens' romance, foreshadowed by their starring roles in their school's production of Romeo and Juliet in this world, develops as the story progresses, and frequent quotes from and allusions to the play add depth to the story.—Beth L. Meister, Pleasant View Elementary School, Franklin, WI

Gr 8 Up—Stealing cars for joyrides became Matt's life after his revered older brother taught him how. Now, after a major accident, the teen, haunted by vivid, farcical images of his dead brother, attempts to ignore the realities of life and baits his parole officer/psychologist. Joyce takes Matthew skillfully—if not particularly uniquely—along this genre's familiar path of healing through friendships in a rehab/therapy setting, with a surprise at the psychological-breakthrough ending. With strong supporting characters, a sympathetic and occasionally funny protagonist, fantastical nightmare sequences, and car theft, this could be given to fans of Chris Crutcher, David Klass, Pete Hautman and the like, but is only recommended for libraries already well stocked with these authors, as Joyce's writing comes up somewhat short on both believability and panache in comparison.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library

Gr 4–8—This third installment in the series finds 12-year-old djinn twins Philippa and John embarking on a harrowing journey to Northern India and Nepal in search of the long-lost and powerful talisman, the Cobra King of Kathmandu. The twins believe that it holds the answers to certain mysterious deaths and hope to find it before it falls into the hands of the malevolent cult of the Nine Cobras, led by the egomaniacal Guru Masamjhasara, who seeks to profit from controlling and selling djinn power. However, the siblings soon find themselves imprisoned by the deadly cult and must rely upon their wits and a generous helping of good fortune to survive. This fast-paced, plot-driven fantasy adventure plunges readers into the curious world of djinn society and explores the many intriguing facets of its lore. The suspenseful plot twists, coupled with a liberal dosing of humor, make this a fun page-turner. Harry Potter fans will enjoy this foray into a different type of magical subculture.—Debbie Lewis O'Donnell, Alachua County Library District, Gainesville, FL

Gr 7–9—Violence perpetrated by the Church of Rome in the name of God in the early 13th century forms the background for this story. Etienne, a poor boy from Cloyes, France, reacts to a vision in which St. Nicholas instructs him to lead a crusade of children to Jerusalem. He is joined by Abel, a Jewish boy who has been studying in Paris, and Blanche, a member of the Good Christians, those who do not do the bidding of the Church of Rome, as well as thousands of other children. The plot has convenient twists and some gaps. It is hard to understand, for example, how Abel is able to keep his Judaism hidden from the others, as he continues to observe Shabbat. Though the three main characters experience realistic periods of self-doubt, they are awkwardly drawn and the dialogue often sounds like a religious tract. Also, the author's attempt to show an underlying commonality of belief among the religions of Judaism, Christianity, and the Muslim faith is heavy-handed and almost forced on the story, and Etienne's leadership and ability to inspire the others who join the crusade is not convincing. This offering is disappointing.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 5–8—This fantasy by Irish author McNamee introduces Owen, whose father has died mysteriously, and whose mother has sunk into a depression. Out in his wilderness hideaway, he catapults into a time vortex where he meets a girl named Cati and her fellow Wakeful. Their eternal task is to fight the Harsh, a powerful ice people who upend time, running it backward so that humans no longer exist. Owen, Cati, and other Wakeful set out to find the Puissance, the place where it is foretold that the Navigator, a legendary figure, can defeat the Harsh and restore proper time. Readers who head for D. J. MacHale's "Pendragon" (S & S) and Garth Nix's "The Keys to the Kingdom" (Scholastic) series may like this one as well, but it sometimes strains credibility. The idea that time is moving backward (from modern to medieval times by novel's end), but that all humanity immediately disappears (even though there were humans back then) is hard to accept. And while Owen and Cati are plucky adventurers, the descriptions sometimes fall flat, and the transitions are occasionally abrupt. Consider this title an additional purchase; acquire where Kenneth Oppel's Airborn (HarperCollins, 2004) and similar titles are popular.—Caitlin Augusta, The Darien Library, CT

Gr 7–10—Who is she—Hope Shay or Bernadette Romano? Kidnapping victim or manipulative schemer? Mitchard pulls out all the stops in this psychological thriller about a 15-year-old Michigan actress (stage name, Hope) who attends the elite Starwood Academy for the Performing Arts. Despite the jealousy of her fellow students, Hope seems to be thriving and has landed the starring role in the student production of Romeo and Juliet. She has also fallen deeply in love with her own Romeo, actor Logan Rose. In fact, they plan to get some money together and live in L.A. or New York City as soon as she's 16. But something goes terribly wrong, and suddenly everyone suspects Hope of faking her own abduction and fabricating her romance. Peeling the layers of her story away reveals the truth in bits and pieces, and the ambiguous conclusion feels absolutely realistic. This riveting page-turner is sure to be in hot demand.—Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

Gr 4–6—Returning to Northampton County, NC, the setting for her Buddy Bush novels (S & S), Moses introduces 12-year-old African-American twins Leon and Luke. The time period is left undefined, but has a recent historical feel. Leon, the narrator, is free with his opinions on just about everything, including his brothers, his mother, his stepfather, and his upcoming baptism. He saves his worst scorn for "White Cousin," a bully and one of the many white people in the area who have unacknowledged blood ties to Leon's family and other black residents. Leon's mother believes that the twins need to show that they are ready to be saved before the baptism, but Leon can't seem to give up sinning even for a week. The baptism is the focal point of the story, but differs quite a lot from how most churched kids will have experienced it, giving the subject a somewhat limited appeal. Despite this, Leon is spirited and engaging. The minor characters are less fully developed, but the setting is evocative, with definite regional appeal. The ending includes a positive step toward reconciliation between races. Those who haven't read the previous novels won't have any trouble following this one. With its large font and trim length, it could also work for last-minute book reports.—Faith Brautigam, Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin, IL

Gr 5–8—In this second adventure, Becca and her brother, Doug, have escaped Wenzi Island, but find themselves right back in the action. Their ship is struck by a powerful typhoon and is driven ashore on a group of islands. There the two teens; their uncle, Captain MacKenzie; and his brave crew find themselves once again facing their nemesis, Pembleton-Crozier, and his army of Kalaxx warriors. It takes all of their ingenuity, bravery, and wit to figure out his intent and why the islands are so very important to these enemies of the Guild of Specialists. This book rolls along with plenty of action and fun. Readers will be captivated by the story line, but also will be intrigued by all of the sketches, photographs, newspaper clippings, and foldout information on technology. Encourage fans of Alex Rider and Eoin Colfer to try this series.—Tasha Saecker, Menasha Public Library, WI

Gr 6–9—Sixteen-year-old musician Mark Purvis longs to break into the jazz scene of 1925 Harlem, but when he becomes embroiled in a bootlegging scheme with real-life jazzman Fats Waller, he has to find a way to pay off an angry mob boss for losing the liquor. Mark has a job at The Crisis, a magazine headed up by W. E. B. DuBois and published by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. As expected, his lovably carefree and occasionally clueless personality gets him into an insurmountable pile of trouble, yet it energizes both the plot and era with a contemporary vitality that today's hip-hop and pop-culture fans will appreciate. In this quickly paced and laugh-out-loud narrative, Myers brings Mark face-to-face with a dazzling host of Harlem Renaissance A-listers, including Marian Anderson, Langston Hughes, and Countee Cullen. Their swift, red-carpetlike entrances and exits ignite the hot New York City summer setting with the electricity of creativity and reform. As the story progresses, Mark's awareness of his surroundings and contributions to the cause grow stronger and stronger, and no doubt that's exactly what Myers hopes his readers will realize for themselves as Mark's story unfolds.—Hillias J. Martin, New York Public Library

Gr 5–7—First published in England, this quiet, gentle story of friendship and love spans years and defies time. Small, timid Henry moves with his parents at the end of Year Six to a village in Suffolk near Risingheath, a former World War II airfield. The first friend he makes is an unlikely one: his neighbor's great-aunt. He is drawn to Dottie, for whom Henry is a reminder of another Henry-her fiancé, a Royal Air Force navigator who never returned from his 13th bombing mission. The author employs a nice touch of magical realism with the shadowy figure that appears in the evening and seems to be waiting, amid the fireflies, at the gate in Henry's garden. At night the boy hears the old planes that flew over more than 60 years earlier. He is drawn into Dottie's reminiscences, and sometimes has the strange sense of being in someone else's body. While playing with a flight-simulator program on a computer, young Henry "sees" what happened on that final mission. He realizes that, although the RAF navigator was afraid, he acted heroically. This realization helps the boy find courage and a way through his own fears. He has made some friends and is looking forward to the summer holidays. This is a well-written book, with an old-fashioned tone, that emphasizes character and feelings over plot. It's for thoughtful readers who appreciate a book that lingers in their minds.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 6 Up—This retelling of the second part of Cervantes's masterpiece is limited to those stories and events that deal directly with Don Quixote. The prologue gives a short history of Miguel de Cervantes and his book and brings readers up-to-date with a summary of the first volume. The text is a mixture of conversation among the characters, narrative, and parenthetical explanatory asides. The author has kept Cervantes's tone while making the writing accessible to a wider audience by including less detail, thereby shortening the text, and by using an easier vocabulary. This version would be useful for students who would enjoy the story but aren't ready for the original, or for those who have been assigned the full version but are having trouble with it. A solid addition, if accompanied by the first volume.—Nancy P. Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC

Gr 4–6—Penina Levine's new teacher has given an assignment to send cards as the Easter Bunny to kindergartners at a neighboring school, and the sixth grader is uncomfortable with it because she is Jewish. When she tries to fulfill the spirit of the task without compromising her beliefs, Ms. Anderson shows a remarkable lack of sensitivity and gives her a zero. Feeling that her parents won't understand, Penina keeps the issue to herself, but she finally confides in Grandma, who is both appalled at the teacher and proud of her "hard-boiled egg": her granddaughter who gets tougher when the heat is turned on. As soon as Penina's parents are made aware of the problem, calls are made to the principal, and the teacher quickly gets a lesson in appreciating diversity. Penina is afraid that Ms. Anderson will be angry with her, but the two come to respect one another. While the idea of a young teacher being so culturally obtuse in the 21st century stretches credibility, the story moves along at an entertaining pace. Like an older Amber Brown, Penina is a feisty and thoroughly enjoyable heroine with whom readers will easily connect. O'Connell's artful weaving of Jewish traditions and history throughout the novel makes it all the richer, and the occasional illustrations complement the dynamic humor.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 9–11—Yoko is an ordinary high school girl with nightmares when a golden-haired young man tells her she's in dream-foreshadowed danger. Soon the teen is flying on the back of a huge bird to a kingdom in another world, where she'll eventually learn that she is destined for a throne. The prominence of a jewel and a sword (as well as purification by water) connects this tale to Japanese tradition. Chinese tradition contributes cosmography and the Mandate of Heaven. Anime tradition guarantees lots of bloody monster-killing by the reluctant (and imperfect) Yoko. This otherworld seems thinly realized, with confusing politics; however, violent action and odd creatures abound. The real-world frame plays a small role, though the fantasy of not really belonging to one's parents is key. Yoko leaves behind her conservative, sexist upbringing, putting on men's clothes and developing muscles, acknowledging the demonic within, and learning to assert herself. Yet, she fears trusting anyone and judges the absence of religion as the reason for people's selfishness. A cynical blue monkey, the heroine's amoral self, regularly suggests suicide. The reading level is not difficult, but names (Keiki, Kaiko, Kyokai, Kou, etc.) are tricky without a guide. Pacing is uneven: stretches of inaction drag on and anticlimax replaces a final confrontation with the forces of evil—but six more volumes are planned. Anime fans will be encouraged by the occasional manga-style black-and-white illustration, and the strong female protagonist will attract others to a fantasy with identity and self-acceptance at its core.—Patricia D. Lothrop, St. George's School, Newport, RI

Gr 7 Up—For most of his 13 years, Noah has lived with the guilt of being the sole survivor of the surgery separating him and his conjoined-at-the-heart twin brother. Helping to fuel his shameful secret is Mademoiselle, his self-absorbed, eccentric grandmother, a retired vaudevillian actress. Noah's guardian since the death of his parents when he was four, she expects absolute perfection in dress and manners. When large, loving Nurse Grace enters his life as caregiver during and after Mademoiselle's face-lift, she finds a pale, anorexic, solitary young boy, starving both physically and emotionally. In alternating chapters, Grace and Noah discuss one another and reveal, to readers though not to each other, the secret losses they have in common. Mademoiselle's dominance is a hovering presence, her death only revealed in the last few pages when Noah finally admits the truth to himself. Adding to the haunting bizarreness of the boy's inner thoughts is the reality of a sniper who is terrorizing the neighborhood and leaving tarot cards at each murder scene. Noah believes this may be his twin, whom he fears is secretly alive and seeking revenge for being sacrificed so that his stronger brother could survive. The psychological layers of the characters as well as the entwining "twins-of-the-heart" theme create endless discussion possibilities, although the story's complexity may prove too much for average or reluctant readers.—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 3–7—Charley is a master cook, a comic-book maniac, and a basically friendless nine-year-old. When his father sends him an early birthday gift and inquires how he is going to celebrate his big day, Charley is inspired to throw a party. The ensuing story chronicles his attempt to determine a theme, bake a cake, and make enough friends to have a gathering worthy of turning 10. The fast-paced plot will keep readers involved to the end. The novel is peopled with a host of unique characters including a mysterious neighbor, Charley's mother's seedy boyfriend, and an older sister obsessed with working at a fried chicken fast-food restaurant. Readers will enjoy the gross-out details and embarrassing situations in which Charley finds himself during his quest for a successful celebration. The author does a wonderful job of crafting the boy's character within the strange and bizarre events leading up to the satisfying conclusion. It's often very funny, but it's also poignant as Charley's loneliness and cluelessness about how to make a friend are clearly evident. This novel would be especially effective for a class read-aloud or as a choice for reluctant readers.—Melissa Christy Buron, Epps Island Elementary, Houston, TX

Gr 5–8—This trilogy ends with a bang. Having stumbled upon a way to travel through time, Johnny knows exactly when a German bomb will be dropped on his English village. Time travel turns out to be tricky, however, as it takes Johnny and his friends several trips to alter history just enough to save their town, but also to ensure that everything stays the same when they return home. Adding to the suspense is the imaginative vehicle of a crazy bag lady's squeaky cart to time travel, often with unpredictable results. The climax is reached at rocket speed as Johnny becomes increasingly aware of the many dimensions of time and ultimately relies on this ability to save the townsfolk. Pratchett deftly weaves alternate realities together to form a satisfying conclusion, keeping confusion at bay by treating the weightier issues of time travel with his trademark humor. Alternating between 1990s Britain and World War II, he offers plenty for thoughtful readers to mull over even as he pokes fun at the genre. While there is little connection to the other books in the series, Johnny's quirky sidekicks are back, each sidesplittingly portrayed and effectively advancing the plot. It is Johnny who cares most about the effect the war will have on his sleepy town, and up until the very last page, readers will, too.—Emily Rodriguez, Alachua County Library District, Gainesville, FL

Gr 5–8—When Jeremy Vrabec is almost 10, his mother leaves the family. This novel follows him for the next three years, during which he has no contact with her (by her choice), even though she lives nearby. Jeremy's hurt, anger, and desperation are described in short, matter-of-fact sentences with little embellishment. His father is devastated and depressed, and his 16-year-old sister, Julie, is often gone so Jeremy has to fend for himself. He finds some contentment staying at his best friend's house or with his father's brother, who treats him like a son. Jeremy uses his artistic talent to draw the birds he sees in his neighborhood (black-and-white sketches appear throughout), which also takes him away from his everyday life and allows him to experience some pleasure. Eventually, his father meets and marries another woman and Jeremy's life changes once again. Still, he hears no word from his mother, even though she is in contact with his sister. His resentment builds and when she does finally call he can hardly bring himself to speak to her, and their relationship is never really resolved. The restrained writing distances readers from Jeremy's story rather than drawing them into it, and there is never an adequate explanation for Jeremy's mother's actions that youngsters would understand.—Terrie Dorio, Santa Monica Public Library, CA

Gr 7–10—Freshmen Anna and Emma have been best friends since third grade. When Emma meets Mariah during rehearsals for Romeo and Juliet and becomes friendly with her, Anna grows jealous. Mariah, who is dating a senior from another school, invites them to a sleepover at her boyfriend's house while his parents are away and things change for the three of them after that night. When the girls make up a story about their whereabouts and are caught in the aftermath, the lies grow into something bigger than any of them could have imagined. The unfolding of the truth is believable and told from the girls' alternating points of view. Anna enjoys the newfound attention and rationalizes that maybe the lie wasn't so bad, even as things spiral out of control. Emma, who drank at the party and had sex for the first time, opens up slowly to a counselor. At the end of the book, Mariah is still coming to terms with her actions and regrets, noting how something can appear one way one day and be different the next. Unpredictability and suspense will keep readers turning the pages and questioning their own sensibilities. They will appreciate how well the characters are developed, and how seemingly simple lies can have far-reaching and devastating consequences.—Kelly Czarnecki, Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg, NC

Gr 8 Up—Sixteen-year-old forensic investigator Luke Harding is back in this fifth book in the series, set in the future. This time, someone is trying to sabotage the Youth International Games. The stadium, near London, is in the process of being built, and The Authorities ask Luke to investigate a series of strange accidents at the construction site. First the games' organizer disappears. Then two construction workers plummet to their deaths. Shortly after that, a swimmer is severely injured while testing out the facility's pool. Luke and his trusty sidekick robot, Malc, zero in on several suspects, but as the search for "Spoilsport" intensifies, his own life becomes endangered. This action-packed, quick read will keep readers guessing who Spoilsport is and what his or her motives are. A good read for reluctant readers or for teens interested in forensic science.—Shannon Seglin, Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA

Gr 6–8—Thirteen-year-old Leon Noside (Edison spelled backwards) Harris has spent a lifetime hating the middle name his father gave him as an insult to Thomas Edison. Smart-mouthed and gifted, he uses his creative resources—a talent he inherited from parents who spend hours concocting their own inventions whether in the garage or the kitchen—to make an avant-garde sex-education video that tells kids that masturbation is normal. Leon is suspended, and the students stage a near riot, complete with "Free Leon Harris" signs. This isn't the first time that Mrs. Smollet, the program director for the gifted pool, has had negative encounters with her students, but it is the first time that Leon is a hero at school. The administration is challenged to sort out the real problem: Is it Leon, or Mrs. Smollet? This funny, fast-paced novel is filled with characters who epitomize the middle school experience, and it presents a lesson or two about free speech as well.—Pat Scales, formerly at South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities, Greenville

Gr 4–9—With characteristic intelligence, exquisite images, and a breathtaking design, Selznick shatters conventions related to the art of bookmaking in this magical mystery set in 1930s Paris. He employs wordless sequential pictures and distinct pages of text to let the cinematic story unfold, and the artwork, rendered in pencil and bordered in black, contains elements of a flip book, a graphic novel, and film. It opens with a small square depicting a full moon centered on a black spread. As readers flip the pages, the image grows and the moon recedes. A boy on the run slips through a grate to take refuge inside the walls of a train station—home for this orphaned, apprentice clock keeper. As Hugo seeks to accomplish his mission, his life intersects with a cantankerous toyshop owner and a feisty girl who won't be ignored. Each character possesses secrets and something of great value to the other. With deft foreshadowing, sensitively wrought characters, and heart-pounding suspense, the author engineers the elements of his complex plot: speeding trains, clocks, footsteps, dreams, and movies—especially those by Georges Méliès, the French pioneer of science-fiction cinema. Movie stills are cleverly interspersed. Selznick's art ranges from evocative, shadowy spreads of Parisian streets to penetrating character close-ups. Leaving much to ponder about loss, time, family, and the creative impulse, the book closes with a waning moon, a diminishing square, and informative credits. This is a masterful narrative that readers can literally manipulate.—Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library

Gr 5–8—Fourteen-year-old Leven Thumps and his not-so-merry band of Foo denizens return. Things start going badly right from the start. Homes are destroyed, people are buried in dirt or encased in ice, planes almost crash, and poor Geth, once a powerful and respected person, is turned into a toothpick and swallowed. The characters aren't compelling, and the most interesting parts of the story take place in Reality and not in Foo at all. The "Whispered Secret" is somewhat of a letdown. The ending sets the stage for yet another outing. Fans of Leven Thumps and the Gateway to Foo (Shadow Mountain, 2005) might be able to make heads or tails of the story, but everyone else will be totally lost.—Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 5–9—Fourteen-year-old Enola Holmes is intelligent, sassy, and a woman before her time, living incognito in Victorian London and working as a Perditorian. She is on the run from her famous older brothers, Sherlock and Mycroft Holmes, who feel she belongs in a boarding school learning to be a lady. Using various aliases, disguises, and ciphers, Enola is on the case to find the missing teenage daughter of Sir Eustance Austair while trying to elude "capture" by her siblings. She finds herself in the back alleys of London, using her wits to locate the missing Lady Cecily while also trying to keep herself out of mortal peril. Though readers' interest will be piqued by the references to Enola's first adventure, The Case of the Missing Marquess (Philomel, 2006), this title stands alone. Fans of Blue Balliet's Chasing Vermeer (2004) and The Wright 3 (2006, both Scholastic) and Ellen Raskin's The Westing Game (Dutton, 1978) will surely enjoy the suspense and the fresh voice of this young sleuth.—Angela M. Boccuzzi-Reichert, Merton Williams Middle School, Hilton, NY

Gr 5–9—After Reynie Muldoon responds to an advertisement recruiting "gifted children looking for special opportunities," he finds himself in a world of mystery and adventure. The 11-year-old orphan is one of four children to complete a series of challenging and creative tasks, and he, Kate, Constance, and Sticky become the Mysterious Benedict Society. After being trained by Mr. Benedict and his assistants, the four travel to an isolated school where children are being trained by a criminal mastermind to participate in his schemes to take over the world. The young investigators need to use their special talents and abilities in order to discover Mr. Curtain's secrets, and their only chance to defeat him is through working together. Readers will challenge their own abilities as they work with the Society members to solve clues and put together the pieces of Mr. Curtain's plan. In spite of a variety of coincidences, Stewart's unusual characters, threatening villains, and dramatic plot twists will grab and hold readers' attention. Fans of Roald Dahl or Blue Balliett will find a familiar blend of kid power, clues, and adventure in Society, though its length may daunt reluctant or less-secure readers. Underlying themes about the power of media messages and the value of education add to this book's appeal, and a happy ending with hints of more adventures to come make this first-time author one to remember.—Beth L. Meister, Pleasant View Elementary School, Franklin, WI

Gr 3–6—In the first of these humorous stories, David describes his family, friends, teachers, etc., and shares his best excuses for getting out of work at home and at school. The book is full of subheadings and handy tips. Secrets! is the stronger title. A famous wrestler shares an important secret with Davey and asks him not to tell. When the athlete accepts the Hall of Fame award (the secret) on national television, he acknowledges the trust he has in his friend. After the boy's 15 minutes of fame, life gets crazy. A student inadvertently downloads an image on the class computer and upsets the teacher, the whole class gets punished, and the guilty student confesses to David. Others also confide in him, and he is miserable. Numerous spot illustrations appear on the endpapers and throughout the pages; ink blots serve as chapter breaks. The texts are full of font changes and extra spacing. The glossaries and Web sites aren't especially useful; discussion questions and writing prompts are included. Billed as high-interest realistic fiction, these books will appeal to their target audiences.—Debbie Whitbeck, West Ottawa Public Schools, Holland, MI

Gr 7–10—J.J. Liddy, 15, is descended from a proud old family of Irish musicians. In his small village of Kinvara, playing traditional music is a way of life. Lately, though, it seems that the townspeople have less and less time to fulfill daily responsibilities and very few moments left over to make music and enjoy life. In exasperation, J.J.'s mother asks for more time as her birthday gift. Unaware of any magical implications, the teen innocently sets out to find out where the time has gone. This search leads him into the heart of Tír na n'Óg, the land of eternal youth, where he discovers the truth about some family secrets and the identity of the rather hopeless new town policeman, whose mysterious investigation parallels J.J.'s quest. This novel delivers richly tantalizing morsels of Irish mythology as traditional characters dance across the pages. In a story interspersed with snippets of Irish jigs that reflect the progress of the tale, Thompson has masterfully woven together melody and harmony into a tune that will lead readers to a splendid, rollicking crescendo. Some unfamiliar Irish terminology might make comprehension difficult for those who struggle with reading, but the glossary will help mature readers. Those who follow this story through to the end will not be disappointed.—Heather M. Campbell, Philip S. Miller Library, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 7 Up—Josey Muller, 15, is the only daughter and the best student in her family, which give her a special identity that she cherishes. Then her parents reveal that she has an older sister, now 25. The Mullers have always regretted that they succumbed to parental pressure to surrender Audrey as a newborn, and are thrilled when she contacts them. Josey's brothers and two closest friends assume that she will be delighted to have an older sister. Josey herself is stunned that she views Audrey as an interloper who eclipses her status in the family. Even worse, the young woman is working toward a PhD in psychology, which has been the teen's dream for years. The Mullers are drawn sympathetically, but are understandably so elated by their reunion with Audrey that it takes them a while to recognize Josey's complex feelings. Underdahl has a deft touch in presenting the protagonist's relationships with her friends, crushes on boys, and the pressure of doing well in school. Ultimately, with the support of her parents, friends, and especially Audrey, Josey comes to appreciate her own uniqueness in her evolving family. A subplot involves her older brother's physical relationship with his girlfriend, which worries the Mullers, as they well understand the consequences of an unplanned pregnancy. This vivid, realistic portrait of a family in transition will hold readers' interest to the very last page.—Deborah Vose, Highlands Elementary School, Braintree, MA

Gr 9 Up—Jeremy Applewhite, world-famous dancer, returns to Romney, WV, for his grandmother's funeral. Seventeen years have passed since he has been back, and he and his brother, Chance, have barely kept in touch. Beset by painful injuries, Jeremy realizes that his Broadway dancing days are over, but he has no idea what to do next. Fortunately, his return home leads to love, a new direction for his talents, and confirmation that Chance's 16-year-old "daughter," an able young dancer, is actually Jeremy's child. Although the teen plays a role throughout the story, the real focus seems to be on the relationship between the brothers, which may limit the book's appeal for YAs. The men are trying to come to terms with the disappointments in their lives, the sacrifices they have made, and how they can reestablish their relationship. The characters are all decent people whose problems are neatly solved by novel's end. What it takes to become a dancer is emphasized throughout so that readers may appreciate the relative brevity of dancers' careers as well as the drive necessary to "make it."—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 7 Up—One word describes 13-year-old India Moody—perseverance. She has heard of a college in Ohio that accepts women and is determined to go there, an unthinkable dream for a girl in 1862. She is tutored by her neighbor, Emory Trimble, an eccentric scientist who teaches her about biology and chemistry, and with whom she later forms a romantic relationship. When her father, an ambulance wagon driver for the Confederate Army, is missing in action, she sets off to find him, ending up in the middle of the Battle of Antietam, one of the bloodiest of the war. She faces danger as the Union Army advances toward her home in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley and sees soldiers leave her town and not return. She witnesses Micah and Ester, slaves and friends of the Trimbles, harbor an injured Yankee soldier, putting their own lives in danger. Wells has created a sense of what the North and the South endured during the Civil War by interweaving stories from both sides, and gives a horrifying picture of medical practices and superstitions of the times. This powerful novel is unflinching in its depiction of war and the devastation it causes, yet shows the resilience and hope that can follow such a tragedy. India is a memorable, thoroughly believable character who faces many losses, yet readers are confident that she will follow her dream and attend Oberlin College.—Shannon Seglin, Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA

Gr 5–8—In this fourth story in the series, Eli, 13, called a "chronological asset" by the secret government agency that has hijacked him, must time travel from his present, the year 2020, back to Jerusalem in 583 B.C.E. to try to find a cure for the present-day plague called the slow pox, or Chronological Displacement Syndrome, that may or may not have been bioengineered as a weapon. His first-person narrative alternates with those of his companions, Clyne, an intelligent dinosaur from another planet, and Thea, 14, the daughter of Hypatia of ancient Alexandria. They communicate with each other and with the natives they meet with the help of a lingo-spot, an instantaneous translator. Major plot elements from the first three books are introduced for background, including time travel to Alexandria and San Francisco during World War II to meet people like King Arthur and Merlin, Lewis and Clark, Thomas Jefferson, and Nazis. Revisiting the themes of the previous volumes and setting up the major and minor characters with their own stories and time shifts create an environment of chronological multitasking. Readers accustomed to IMing while talking on the phone and doing homework will revel in this fractured time line, as well as in Eli's ruminations on relativity, unintended consequences of technology, and quantum flux.—Ann Robinson, Moultonborough Academy Library, NH

Gr 4–6—Brothers Avi and Reuven share a love of baseball, and they both hope to make the local All-Star team. Eighth-grader Avi approaches the game and life with a laid-back attitude, while worrywart Reuven, a ninth grader, injures himself trying to get ahead by learning to throw a curveball. He reluctantly learns to find satisfaction in his brother's success. Fans of the game will be intrigued by this jargon-laden story, but it won't attract other readers. Non-baseball elements of the tale all have a secondary feel, and characters are not well-rounded. There is some detail about the siblings' Orthodox Jewish school and family life, but faith has little impact on the characters' choices or actions. Reuven is so painfully self-conscious and surly that he strains readers' sympathy, and he grows very little through the course of the novel. This book seems to set out to be "a Jewish baseball story," and it fulfills that role without going beyond this simple description. For a Jewish baseball story with more likable characters and more interesting social implications, try Carol Matas's Rosie in Chicago: Play Ball! (S & S, 2003).—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

Gr 6 Up—Kit is a junior in high school when her younger brother is diagnosed with cancer. Despite the difference in their ages, they are kindred spirits who share a love of baseball. When Buddy loses his battle against the disease, Kit is devastated. Suddenly her family no longer functions as a whole. Instead they are like "…islands/too distant to matter." The teen must find a way to own her grief in order to mourn Buddy while at the same time joyfully celebrate the characteristics and quirks that constituted his presence in her life. Written in economical and accessible verse, this novel follows the pattern of the baseball season. Despite major holes in the characterization of Kit and Buddy, this slim work speaks volumes about the grieving process. Yeomans has very precisely selected her words to convey the fear and the grief that Kit feels. As with baseball, even though it seems that Buddy's death has brought everything to a halt, winter does end, and spring training will begin again. This novel will fit nicely alongside Karen Hesse's Out of the Dust (Scholastic, 1997) and Nikki Grimes's Dark Sons (Hyperion, 2005).—Heather M. Campbell, Philip S. Miller Library, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 7 Up—Billy's father isn't sleeping well, isn't going to work, and walks through the house like a zombie. A diagnosis of depression is met with optimism by the 15-year-old and his mom and sister, who hope that medication will provide the cure and life will get back to normal. Billy is dismayed when his father has nightmares and breaks out in a rash from the pills. The boy's social life takes a backseat as the illness becomes all-consuming, and he becomes responsible for babysitting his father on nights when his mother works. When Billy goes to a concert with a friend, he learns the hard way that it isn't safe to leave his father alone for 30 minutes. As the story evolves, the family tries remedies such as light therapy and a brain-food diet, to no avail. When the man admits he would like to die, they become desperate enough to try electroshock therapy. The mounting concern is suspenseful, as Billy worries about losing his father and whether he will have depression, too. While the subject matter seems dark, Billy's character is empathetic and he describes some situations humorously, such as when he watches his sister squeeze lemons for therapeutic "wafting." A hopeful ending for Billy's father is shared by the teen's own return to normalcy. Attention to medical detail and advocacy for counseling will definitely put this title on bibliotherapy lists.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 7 Up—Josie, a girl with cerebral palsy, lives on the shrinking farmland owned by her family for generations and now being sold to developers. Her mother works and attends college and her grandmother tends her diminished patch of land. The story is told in the seventh-grader's voice in a series of free-verse poems. She is a bright and wry narrator, acutely aware of her limitations and her strengths. When Jordan, wealthy but neglected by his widowed father, moves into a mansion behind her farmhouse, they discover a common love of nature and science, and Josie finally has a real friend. She and her grandmother are both passionate about plants and gardening, and Zimmer does a nice job integrating botanical images throughout the novel. Josie feels like a "dandelion in a purple petunia patch" and thinks, "I must be a real disappointment—/stunted foliage,/no yield." Through growing maturity and Granny's wisdom, she gains confidence in herself. Reaching for Sun will have wide appeal for readers of diverse ability. Reluctant readers will be attracted to the seeming simplicity of the text, with short chapters and lots of white space on the page. They may not even realize that they are reading poetry. More sophisticated readers will find added enjoyment as they begin to appreciate the poetic structure and imagery. Readers of all levels will enjoy spending time with Josie and may gain an increased awareness of what it's like to live with a disability.—Nancy Brown, Fox Lane High School, Bedford, NY

Gr 5–9—This revision of the 1995 edition presents an overview of Afghanistan's geography, history, government, and culture. The chapters on history and government have been substantially revised and updated to discuss al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and the current government, and the author has added a new chapter on the environment. The "Quick Notes" section of the earlier volume has been expanded to include maps of "Economic Afghanistan" and "Cultural Afghanistan." They are accompanied by charts of quick facts, and a new time line compares Afghani and world history. The information is detailed and current through 2005. Illustrated with numerous attractive color photographs, the book would be a good choice for updating a collection, given the many changes in this part of the world in recent years. Libraries that own the older volume will want to replace it with this edition.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 9 Up—These titles are visually attractive, with color photos and clear print. However, the content leaves much to be desired. The authors emphasize history and doctrine to the exclusion of practical, everyday religion. There is little to nothing on rites of passage, places and types of worship, and feasts and festivals, while statistics and other concrete data are noticeably absent. The books also lack maps, a serious deficiency given the importance of cities, regions, and countries in the historical chapters. Many key terms are missing from the glossaries; difficult, undefined vocabulary is used throughout; and the indexes are incomplete. Overall, the volumes are vague and unbalanced. Matthew Gordon's Islam and Madhu Bazaz Wangu's Buddhism and Hinduism (all Facts On File, 2006) are far more thorough, useful, and relevant. Charles Clark's Islam, Patricia D. Netzley's Buddhism, and Thomas Streissguth's Hinduism (all Gale, 2002) are also acceptable.—Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

Gr 6–8—Basic facts about drinking in America, teen usage, and warning signs of alcoholism are presented in this readable, unbiased text. The effects of alcoholism on families, the dangers of binge drinking, and the successes and failures of solutions and strategies to solve these issues are discussed. Societal attitudes that contribute to alcohol abuse and organizations that are working toward healing problems caused by alcohol are included. The book's design, with quotes and statistics in a large, attractive typeface, may encourage browsing. Black-and-white stock photos are undistinguished and not necessary for understanding the material. While Ted Gottfried's The Facts about Alcohol (Benchmark, 2004) has similar material plus more historical and legal information, this volume contains more documentation in the source notes and more easily understood statistical information.—Debbie Stewart Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI

Gr 8 Up—This volume uses the familiar format of presenting different points of view from a variety of sources. Fully cited information is gathered from government agencies; experts, such as researchers from Dartmouth Medical School; and organizations as diverse as the Drug Free America Foundation and Cato Institute, a Libertarian think tank. Each chapter has a preface and concludes with a periodical bibliography. The articles begin with a short introduction and discussion questions, which give students gentle guidance. The book explores whether or not teen drug abuse is on the increase, the core causes, the role of the media in promoting cigarette and alcohol use, and abuse prevention. Charts aid in understanding and a few cartoons leaven the text. Back material includes questions for further discussion and contact information for related organizations. This volume will be helpful for reports and debates.—Debbie Stewart Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI

Gr 6–9—Each title provides a straightforward and clear discussion of its topic. The authors focus on how a discovery or invention by one individual can lead to a chain reaction of discoveries by others and follows it through time to its current applications. Cowpox discusses vaccines and medicines from prehistory to the present time. Laughing Gas introduces transplant surgery. Colorful photographs and illustrations appear on every spread. In both books, boxed areas offer specific quotes from scientists that highlight amazing facts or answer specific questions. There are also many personal stories that will grab readers' attention. The volumes conclude with a list of brief biographies of key individuals in their respective fields. Useful additions to school and public libraries.—Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Gr 4–6—Short chapters (two to four pages in length) with bold and sparing text, coupled with full-color photographs, tell readers what to expect and how to handle various situations. (All of the sitters shown are female.) Safety, entertaining, and feeding are just a few of the important topics covered, and the author provides a variety of examples that can be applied for babysitting babies through older children. Tips and recommendations are also given under the small scenario pieces, "What would you do?" that will effectively make readers think about potential problems that can arise when adults are away. The author stresses that responsibility rests on the shoulders of the babysitter but also helps to instill confidence by demonstrating and providing the tools to be prepared. Both books offer sound advice; it's just unfortunate that it isn't all in one volume. "Things You Should Know Before the Parents Leave" (Basics) are just as important as "Rules to Remember" (Rules). Useful but incomplete titles to prepare young people for what is, for many, their first job.—Jennifer Cogan, Bucks County Free Library, Doylestown, PA

Gr 5–8—While the subtitle leads one to believe that the heart of this book is about the science of ocean currents, it's actually about why we need to protect our marine environment. Burns tells the tale of Dr. Curtis Ebbesmeyer, an oceanographer who started to track trash (flotsam) that washed up on the shore near his Seattle home. Through floating sneakers and bath toys that accidentally fell off container ships and a computer program named OSCURS, Ebbesmeyer tracked the currents of the ocean. These experiments led to a discussion of how debris is polluting our oceans and causing harm to marine life. Burns introduces the work of several scientists who are working to clean up ghost nets and other dangerous debris. The well-written narration will keep readers engaged, and it's excellent for reports. The science is clearly explained, and the vivid and lively photographs and well-labeled charts and diagrams help to create interest and build understanding. This title will get readers thinking and possibly acting on these problems.—Esther Keller, I.S. 278, Marine Park, NY

Gr 6 Up—This concise history of NASCAR racing and its recent surge in popularity starts with the author's eyewitness account of Dale Earnhardt's fatal crash at the 2001 Daytona 500 and the aftermath of the tragedy, both of which Caldwell covered for the New York Times. Subsequent chapters cover the basics of stock-car racing, from qualifying through the races and the championship point system; the technological side, featuring the cars and other equipment; the creation and development of NASCAR and its leading personalities; the relationship with the fans; marketing; and the outlook for the future. Caldwell's text is enjoyably readable, in spite of his tendency to jump abruptly from one topic to another. The sport's lack of diversity is offset by featuring information on female and minority drivers and the association's efforts to attract a more diverse audience. The book is well documented and enhanced by excellent color photos. Offsets provide more in-depth detail, such as notes on multiple championship winners, biographical info, and historical events. A minor error results from a poorly worded explanation of the points system, but otherwise this is an accurate effort. Overall, this is a comprehensive look at the NASCAR phenomenon for beginners, and it has more than enough visual appeal to please longtime fans.—Jeffrey A. French, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Gr 4–6—In 1776, Benjamin Tallmadge, a school headmaster, felt called to leave his position and join George Washington's army, defending the freedom of the fledgling American nation. Making informed use of primary-source material, including Tallmadge's memoirs, this fictionalized accounting follows the young man who would go on to have a distinguished career as one of Washington's trusted officers and spies, through the Battle of Long Island. The visceral narrative captures Tallmadge's involvement in that battle, from his first shot at a fellow human being to his return to the battlefield to retrieve his horse, and also limns the emotional state of an untried soldier as he begins to square his beliefs with the reality of their cost. Farnsworth's oil on linen canvas illustrations are likewise thoroughly researched and do a sound job of depicting conditions and the times. The slightly impressionistic feel and realistic use of color do much to enhance a sense of the confusion of battle. A wonderful accompaniment to Scott Ingram's more global and entirely factual approach in The Battle of Long Island (Gale, 2003), this is an excellent introduction to the use of primary-source material to create a plausible historical narrative that also adds a human face. A time line of Tallmadge's life, a list of places to visit, research notes, and an excellent print bibliography are included.—Ann Welton, Helen B. Stafford Elementary, Tacoma, WA

Gr 3–6—Segments of this light and breezy overview focus on uniforms, players' numbers, catchers' equipment, team names, players' nicknames, tricks, trades, and more. Throughout, there's a delightful emphasis on the game's colorful lexicon of words and phrases. Many of the terms reflect baseball's humble beginnings: in the 1880s fans were called "cranks," an "Uncle Charlie" meant a curveball pitch, and a player who "patrolled the pasture" played in the outfield. A "can of corn" (a slow-moving fly ball) meant an easy out, while a "frozen rope" (a hard-hit line drive) could spell trouble for a fielder. The text is highly readable, if loosely organized, and buoyantly carried along on the strength of MacDonald's cartoon illustrations. The watercolor and pencil-crayon pictures have an old-fashioned flavor and add plenty of detail and slapstick humor. For both fans and newcomers to the sport.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 8 Up—In this collection of 38 poems, an unflinching narrative offers a view of the boys who run within the confines of the industrial town of Gary, IN. Their lives, unknown to the "groggy commuters" who flash by on the train, are harsh and difficult, bold and passionate. There's LaRoy, who sings, "i am not a failing flashlight. i am an inspired/inspiration….they know I have/hope, and hope kills…"; the classroom daydreamer who feels that the lopsided view of history he is being taught is whitewashing away his chances to be a contender; and Millicent, the tomboy who crushes with her snarl and good right cross. A grandson is hurting under the lost smile of an addicted grandmother, tough boys get nods of approval from the grown-ups when they learn the art of chops, of jive "…they'd smile to let us know when we had it/down like aristotle and shakespeare/and anansi. And if we could tough it/out we would be something more than/dead carcasses on delaney avenues;/we could become hopeful parents,/first-generation homeowners,/someone's recovered faith,/one project under a groove." These poems are muscular and vivid, fierce with the sound and force of language. Cooper's dreamlike, muted illustrations are a fine counterpoint to the rugged terrain of these young people's experiences.—Susan Moorhead, New Rochelle Public Library, NY

Gr 4–8—Dramatic paintings and lucid prose highlight this excellent history of skyscrapers. Nearly every spread features a full page of text opposite an impressive acrylic illustration. Thus, a page turn reveals another striking construction as the text proceeds chronologically. Precise lines and deft coloring convey the elegance and grandeur of the buildings. Carefully varied composition reveals full views, key sections, or from-the-ground-up perspectives, helping readers grasp the essence of each construction. Clean, stylized renderings make each skyscraper clearly distinct from others shown, and the main elements of the different architectural styles are easy to identify. Curlee covers a lot of ground, from early multistory buildings in Chicago and New York to the latest ambitious plans for new record-breaking towers. He offers useful historical context and relates how architectural artistry and technology impacted skyscrapers through the decades. Well-chosen quotations, used as section headings and within the text, show diverse opinions, ideas, and reactions related to this sometimes-controversial field. When buildings are described without illustrations, the significant elements are still easy to follow through the words. The powerful effect of the full-color paintings is substantial, though, and works with the text to introduce the magnificence of skyscrapers in a way that readers will understand and remember.—Steven Engelfried, Beaverton City Library, OR

Gr 5–9—Students will satisfy both their research needs and their curiosity with these two books. The first title goes a long way in explaining the whys of the Crusades as Currie deftly examines the mindset and worldview of the medieval era. The perceptions of time and space, the order of the universe, and religion and superstition are given thorough treatment. Despite the title, Lace gives equal attention to the events leading up to the destruction of Constantinople and traces the planning and plotting of the Crusades, whose reverberations are still felt today. Both books have numerous color reproductions. Clear, concise writing makes them highly readable, while the scholarship makes them valuable resources.—Carol Fazioli, Gwynedd-Mercy College, Gwynedd Valley, PA

Gr 9 Up—These 23 essays represent differing points of view on whether Iran is a threat to global security, the state of human rights there, how the United States should respond to the country and its future. The treatment of this last topic is especially interesting as nearly all the selections are by Iranian journalists and political figures (including Reza Pahlavi, the son of the former shah) and represent a wide range of opinions. Other selections come from Amnesty International, Nobel Peace Prize winner Shirin Ebadi, and the Wall Street Journal, among others. Each entry is prefaced by several questions for consideration, and each chapter includes a periodical bibliography. The book concludes with questions for further discussion, as well as a bibliography and a list of organizations to contact. Some of the articles are less accessible to average students than others, and a number of the periodicals and books mentioned in the bibliographies might not be easily obtainable in school libraries. Overall, however, this would be a valuable source of current information for students researching argumentative essays or preparing for debates.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 6 Up—This collection of 12 essays focuses on the question of whether democratic government in Iraq and other Middle Eastern countries is feasible, whether it can be imposed by the United States, and whether it is compatible with Islamic culture or even wanted by the people of the region. The articles present points of view from across the political spectrum and are primarily by Western politicians and scholars, including Condoleezza Rice, Karl Zinsmeister, and Wesley Clark, although several Middle Eastern scholars are also represented. The book concludes with a list of organizations to contact and a short bibliography. As is often the case with this type of book, the selections vary in quality; Bernard Lewis's essay on the Islamic traditions of equality and consultation and why they are compatible with democracy is a standout. This collection has a narrower focus than Auriana Ojeda's The Middle East (Gale, 2003) in the "Current Controversies" series and would be useful as a supplement to that title.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 9 Up—Although these volumes offer general introductions to their respective worldwide faith traditions, their perspective is decidedly American. The 20-odd color photos in each title are appealing, but women are visually underrepresented. (In Protestantism, a section on the ordination of women includes a photo of a male cleric instructing girls.) A typo in a quote from Martin Luther inverts its meaning and the author asserts that indulgences granted absolution, a serious misrepresentation. Despite lively writing and a generous font size, there are many unbroken pages of theological distinctions requiring intellectual stamina. Even the glossary entries are long and abstract. Roman Catholicism mangles "Camaldolese" in the dedication, blames the Jews for the death of Jesus, and omits the Crusades' massacres and pillage. Limbo is still described as a part of Catholic belief; its elimination by papal decree in 2005 is unacknowledged. A page on the Shroud of Turin champions its authenticity. Eastern Orthodoxy mysteriously gets seven pages of coverage (unheralded on the cover or title page). Judaism is full of engaging stories and descriptions of traditions, naturally focusing on practice, and using anecdote even to explain theology. It is the most engaging volume of the three. All of them assume an advanced readership. Broad, unbroken pages of text, with few subheads and no sidebars, are disheartening. Among the plethora of reference sources available, these titles are not standouts.—Patricia D. Lothrop, St. George's School, Newport, RI

Gr 4–6—Each book outlines the development of a popular Marvel superhero. In Captain America, readers see the surrounding issues and concerns that shaped this American icon. Spider-Man offers a lot of detail about creators Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. One chapter explains the "Marvel Method" of creating comic books and describes the collaboration between the writer and the artist. While much of the vocabulary in both books is above a fourth-grade level, the terms will be familiar to most young comic-book fans. Many of the full-color illustrations have been taken from the comics. These books do not include much about the current happenings of the characters, but they are great for kids interested in the industry.—Joel Bangilan, Houston Public Library, TX

Gr 5–8—The 20 projects in this collection range from a simple "Heartbeat Monitor" to a fairly complex "Moth-Bot," a wheeled vehicle that moves toward light with the flick of a switch. Most have strong kid appeal, though the "Snowball Launcher" and "Super-Duper Water Shooter" are likely to generate more interest than the "Drinking-Straw Dispenser." Energetic writing makes all of the projects sound intriguing, and the process of creating working gadgets can be as much fun as the end result. Instructions are written in an engaging, conversational tone, with background information about concepts such as gravity and electricity woven into the text. The directions are fairly easy to follow, although the complexity of some of the later "contraptions" will require especially careful attention and possibly adult consultation. Diagrams are also helpful; several steps are often combined in a single illustration, but clear and consistent labeling makes them effective. Most of the projects use household materials, along with basic craft or electronic supplies. The last seven involve electricity; they are more complex and require more purchased items, such as DC motors and transistors. Fifteen of the projects have a clearly highlighted "Adult Supervision Required" note, mainly for use of drills, saws, or other sharp tools. This is a good resource for students looking for out-of-the-ordinary science projects and for curious and creative kids who just want to make something fun and different.—Steven Engelfried, Beaverton City Library, OR

Gr 10 Up—Most of the articles in this edition are rather recent, having been published since Helen Cothran's volume of the same title was issued (Greenhaven, 2001). This book tackles, in familiar pro/con format, such dilemmas as whether teen pregnancy is really a serious problem, what factors contribute to it, the effectiveness of sex-education programs, adoption and abortion, and whether or not society should view teen parenting in a positive light. Researchers will find the differing views invaluable, allowing them to see both sides of an issue.—Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Gr 6 Up—This collection of essays examines what is meant by the term "rogue," to which nations it applies, what kinds of threats these countries pose, and how the world should deal with them. As the series title implies, the issues are addressed from a variety of perspectives ranging from John Bolton and a National Review editorial to Human Rights Watch and Vernon Coleman, who argues that the U.S. is the greatest rogue of all. Each viewpoint begins with a helpful summary and questions to help students focus on important points. Occasional insets with maps, political cartoons, and additional, brief viewpoints add to the text. A periodical bibliography for further reading is appended to each chapter. A fairly extensive index will aid student researchers.—Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School Library, CA

Gr 8 Up—The songs written and first sung by African-American slaves were inspired by a host of human needs: to express emotion, to call God, to remain heartened under oppression, and, perhaps most importantly, to communicate covertly, often about the Underground Railroad. Giovanni brings these motives home in this short, impressionistic look at the lives of the slaves, beginning with their holding in places such as Cape Coast Castle and Goree Island, through the end of the Civil War, when members of divided families desperately attempted to track one another down. Giovanni is a poet, and the book has cadence; in tone, it almost reads like the transcript of a speech or sermon, as the author is generous with her own opinions and often refers to herself within the text. The spirituals themselves are thoughtfully placed—and their complete lyrics are printed as back matter—but Giovanni doesn't always effectively connect the songs to the travails they are meant to communicate. Light on dates, time lines, or political explanations, this is neither a thorough nor an academic history; rather, it is an invitation for readers to look into the lives of figures such as Nat Turner and Frederick Douglass, and events such as the Stono uprising and the passing of the Fugitive Slave Act. A glossary of terms will get them started.—Denise Ryan, Middlesex Middle School, Darien, CT

Gr 3–6—This very basic cookbook offers 125 recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, healthy snacks, side dishes, and desserts. The recipes are clearly presented, and are broken into easy-to-follow steps. From "Ketchup-Cola Chicken" to "Burger-on-a-Stick," most of the dishes will appeal to children. Cleanliness, food-expiration dates, and personal safety are introduced in "Kitchen Basics." Recipe variations, testimonials by children, and safety tips are scattered throughout. The dishes are indexed by ingredient, type of meal, or title of recipe. The stylized pen-and-ink and watercolor artwork gives the book a slightly sophisticated feel and the lack of photos of the finished dishes limits the appeal for younger children. Nonetheless, this well-organized, clever, and creative guide is perfect for readers who are eager to cook and who want immediate success.—Kathleen A. Nester, Downingtown High Ninth Grade Center, PA

Gr 7–10—Gordon's update of his 2001 edition includes developments in Afghanistan and Iraq, new census data on the increase of Muslims in the U.S., and half a dozen recent books as further reading. A paragraph in the introduction addressing the association of violence and extremism with Islam cites events in the past five years and adds to the history of Western stereotypes of Muslims. The author includes a slightly more detailed account of Islam's imperial past and subsequent reform movements (still omitting Sayyid Qutb). Oddly, the account of Iran ends with moderate Khatami, not Ahmadinejad. Only two illustrations are different (ordinary Muslims replace Khomeini and Tansu Ciller). All but a tiny part of the text remains unchanged. Changes in Hartz's 2002 volume are even harder to discern. Some white space has been used for more excerpts from Baha'i texts, and a couple of new titles appear in the bibliography. A few pages on "Spreading the Faith" have been rewritten (though the accompanying growth chart still ends in 2001). Membership figures are either very conservative or outdated. The section on persecution, especially in Iran, is expanded, though it does not mention Iran's 2004 destruction of sites revered by Baha'is, for instance, or the death of another Baha'i in an Iranian prison in 2005. Only one of the functional black-and-white photos is different. These minimally altered editions preserve the clarity, coverage, and concision of the originals. Both volumes are worth having, but upgrading to the new editions is largely optional.—Patricia D. Lothrop, St. George's School, Newport, RI

Gr 5–8—This young readers' version of the recent documentary film's companion adult volume cuts the page count by about a third but preserves the original's cogent message and many of its striking visuals. After explaining that his interest in the environment predates even his mother's reading of Silent Spring aloud to him as a teenager, Gore proceeds to document steeply rising carbon dioxide levels in our atmosphere, and then to link that to accelerating changes in temperature and precipitation patterns worldwide. Using easy-to-grasp graphics and revealing before-and-after photos, he shows how glaciers and ice shelves are disappearing all over the globe with alarming speed, pointing to profound climate changes and increased danger from rising sea levels in the near future. O'Connor rephrases Gore's arguments in briefer, simpler language without compromising their flow, plainly intending to disturb readers rather than frighten them. He writes measured, matter-of-fact prose, letting facts and trends speak for themselves—but, suggesting that "what happens locally has worldwide consequences," he closes with the assertion that we will all have to "change the way we live our lives." Like the film, this title may leave readers to look elsewhere for both documentation and for specific plans of action, but as an appeal to reason it's as polished and persuasive as it can be.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 2–6—From the front cover's gold-and-lapiz sarcophagus, which slides aside to reveal King Tut's body, to the lushly colored photographs and pop-ups inside, this book is all about presentation. In addition to the central story, sidebars and captions to the photographs and artwork contribute to the broader setting: archaeologist Howard Carter's lengthy career before his life-changing discovery and the meticulous labor that followed it; explanations of the culture of the ancient Egyptians, particularly as reflected by the tomb's contents; insights, some of them speculative, into King Tut's family life; and, of course, techniques of mummification, including an open-the-flap illustration of a mortuary worker using a hook to withdraw the king's brain through his nose. While the information is readily available in other sources, the artwork here will draw in even children not already interested in the pharaohs. One pop-up shows Carter holding up a candle and looking through a freshly cleared wall opening into the tomb's anteroom; another features the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Khufu; yet another allows readers to peer through the multiple sarcophagi down to the king's solid gold coffin within. Despite the delicacy of the format, this is a visually stunning invitation into the ancient world.—Coop Renner, Hillside Elementary, El Paso, TX

Gr 10 Up—Whether sexually transmitted diseases are serious problems, how the government should educate youth about STDs, what individuals should do to reduce their spread, and how the global AIDS crisis should be addressed are among the topics included in this complete revision of the 2003 title. Most of the articles were written within the past five years. While this book won't be helpful to teens who are trying to get specific information about specific diseases, students working on research reports or debate speeches will find the articles well balanced and informative.—Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Gr 4–6—These three volumes vary widely in quality, but will give fledgling fans a quick grounding in SF basics. Cogently noting that many authors have created aliens as stand-ins for humanity in order to treat controversial topics (Ursula LeGuin's The Left Hand of Darkness is properly cited as an archetypal example), Hamilton presents well-chosen instances from stories and films of creatures both friendly and hostile, then closes with a reference to SETI. In Final Frontier, the author offers a sketchy history of space opera that mentions Dan Simmons and Alastair Reynolds, but leaves out the better-known likes of Ben Bova, C. J. Cherryh, and Lois McMaster Bujold, and in Modern Masters, he profiles a dozen authors—but all are primarily writers for adults, and all, except for British-born Neil Gaiman (who's better known for fantasy anyway), are American. Each title is profusely illustrated with cover shots, film posters, and melodramatic paintings; each one lacks any leads to further sources of information. Aside from a reference to Octavia Butler's death early in 2006, the information is at least a full year behind. Still, the flashy format will attract less-able readers, and as fodder for brief reports, these titles make good complements to Ron Miller's The History of Science Fiction (Watts, 2001).—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 5–8—Hauser offers more than 40 ideas for bags that are imaginative and playful. The projects are arranged into sections with fanciful titles such as "Holiday Bag Bliss" and "The Enchanting Evening Bag." Each one begins with a short descriptive paragraph that is informal, snappy, and likely to appeal to the target audience. The stylized illustrations are likewise age appropriate. Many of the crafts involve dressing up an already existing item, while others give instructions for making a bag out of felt or other materials. Clear, step-by-step instructions and a color photograph of the finished product are included. Most projects can be completed in about an hour. However, because they are usually assembled with craft glue or a glue gun, it is questionable how durable the finished items would be. As a result, some of them might be more functional as gift bags rather than purses. Most of the projects call for materials that are readily attainable at a craft store, but others (like red fishnet stockings for the pirate purse) are more difficult to find. This book has potential as the basis for a "tween" purse party. For slightly older teens, Jessica Vitkus's Alternacrafts (Stewart, Tabori & Chang, 2006) has more challenging and functional ideas.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 7 Up—Havelin introduces a dedicated and idealistic man who put his political and social beliefs above everything, including his family and his health. She briefly recounts Che's childhood, then, with increasing detail, his early adulthood and revolutionary years. His famous motorcycle journey and his meeting with Fidel Castro in Mexico are discussed, as are his success as a revolutionary and failure as a bureaucrat. Some attention is also given to his lesser-known travels in Africa and South America near the end of his life. Black-and-white archival photographs and gray-scale maps add to the text, as do insets explaining everything from leprosy to the Cold War to the underlying social conditions in Cuba in the 1950s. This slim volume is a fine starting point for teens interested in a man Time magazine named one of the most influential personalities of the 20th century.—Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School Library, CA

Gr 8 Up—Through a series of skillfully crafted poems, Hemphill has pieced together a collage of the life and work of the American writer. Arranged chronologically from Plath's birth to the month of her suicide, the poems are written from the points of view of people involved in her life. The voices of Plath's mother; her poet husband, Ted Hughes; and other intimates are interspersed with those of more fleeting acquaintances, each chosen to underscore a unique aspect of the subject's fiery life and tumultuous literary career. Hemphill rises to the challenge of capturing the life of a poet through poetry itself; the end result is a collection of verse worthy of the artist whom it portrays. Form is of paramount importance, just as it was to Plath herself. Many of the selections were created "in the style of" specific Plath poems, while others are scattered with Plath's imagery and language. While the book will prove an apt curriculum companion to Plath's literary works as touted on the jacket, it will also pull the next generation of readers into the myth of Sylvia Plath.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 4–6—These books include maps, full-color illustrations or black-and-white reproductions on every page, sidebars, quotes from journals and other writings, and short biographies of relevant people. Missions covers the time period from the 1600s to 1830s and the settlement by the Spanish of Mexico and the parts of North America that are now the states of New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, and California. Because the Spanish did not have enough people to settle in the New World, they sent priests to try to convert the Indians to Christianity and a European way of life. The book describes the various types of mission communities and makes comparisons among them. Washington explains the causes of the War of 1812 and the various political positions in favor of and against it. The author emphasizes the importance of the war in establishing the United States as a manufacturing and world power. The purchase of the Louisiana Territory from the French in 1803 and the Lewis and Clark expedition provide the backdrop for Mountain Men. Comparable books on these topics for the same age group include Susan E. Haberle's The War of 1812 (Capstone, 2003), Andrew Santella's The War of 1812 (2001; o.p.) and Mountain Men (2003, both Children's Press), and Kieran Doherty's Explorers, Missionaries, and Trappers (Oliver, 2000). All three of these titles would be useful supplements to the study of United States history.—Ann Joslin, Fort LeBoef School District, Waterford, PA

Gr 4–6—This solid and readable introduction to the field of bionics is divided into four chapters: "Replacing Parts," "Fixing Malfunctions," "Assisting the Senses," and "Facing the Future." Jango-Cohen uses a number of personal stories and references to pop culture to engage readers. She profiles Lyn Kolsteren, who received a bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA). In the first chapter, she highlights Darth Vader and Dr. Octopus from the film Spider-Man 2 as examples of replacing parts. The explanations are clearly written and easily understood. Colorful photographs and illustrations are featured throughout the text and captions appear in colorful bubbles. This is a useful research tool on a topic that is certain to intrigue students.—Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Gr 6–8—The image of a bouncing ball is used effectively throughout this book to discuss the concept of resiliency in the context of adjusting to life's problems. Each chapter begins with a short vignette of a teen facing a stressful situation and ends by reminding readers of the story and hypothesizing solutions. There are many positives here: the advice given is psychologically sound, the writing is clear and easy to read, the pages are visually appealing, and photos show teens of both genders and various racial backgrounds. Even with all these pluses, though, there is little substance. The idea of becoming resilient and thus resisting and coping with stress is well explained. However, the solutions are incorporated into simplistic acronyms such as "ICAN," standing for Identifying problems, Coming up with solutions, Analyzing them, and Now picking one and going for it. The usefulness of this self-help book is limited to helping those who face small crises, or slightly disorganized lives and are motivated to change. For those with more serious issues, the solutions offered here are too pat.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 4–8—Born north of the Arctic Circle in 1893, Marie Ahnighito Peary published her own version of her youth in 1934 (The Snowbaby's Own Story), on which this book is based. Kirkpatrick's engaging text captures the girl's adventurous spirit and the opportunities that her father's life as an explorer presented, as well as her love of the North and her Inuit friends. Numerous black-and-white photos show the child growing up and pictures from the admiral's quest. A photo of four-month-old Marie reaching for a sunbeam—her first experience of sunlight after the long Arctic night—is especially poignant. It's impossible not to contrast the more staid images of traditional portraits with the lively candid shots of her at a ship's helm or standing with her Inuit friends dressed in animal skins. Children will relate to nine-year-old Marie's letter urging her father to stay home rather than go exploring again. Notes divided into primary and secondary sources, a bibliography, and acknowledgments reveal Kirkpatrick's thoughtful scholarship and reliance on Peary's book. A terrific addition for most collections.—Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

Gr 4–6—Garish covers (large on toothy fierceness) herald these additions to the series. All three present a historical overview of the featured creature and look at them as depicted in folklore, literature, film, and the media. Bigfoot and Dragons also examine the probability of these creatures' existence. A glossary of "mysterious animals" is offered in Bigfoot. The chatty, occasionally flip texts ("Egyptian priests are hard to please," for example) are larded with photos and other illustrations (often with a nice ick! factor). The titles are adequate for cryptozoology fans, but readers might have more fun with some of the books listed for further reading or, with an ample supply of hot buttered popcorn, watching a couple of the movies.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 6 Up—In the time that Sharpton has been on the public stage, he has drawn a great deal of controversy, so it is a pleasure to read a biography of him that is both objective and dispassionate. This volume chronicles his life from his early years in Brooklyn as a boy minister, through his street activism, to his run for the presidency of the United States. In between, the man's connections to Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., Jesse Jackson, and James Brown are explored. The text is clearly and simply written. The plentiful, informative, color and black-and-white photographs will help students get a better sense of Sharpton's life and times. A time line links milestones in the subject's life to significant world events, a stratagem that gives a wider political and social context. Joining Hal Marcovitz's work of the same title (Chelsea House, 2001), this biography dwells less on the reverend's civil rights causes and more on his development as a leader and as a person.—Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 4–6—This visually appealing introduction to the Parthenon also explores the intriguing historical and societal factors that played key roles in its creation. The first half sets the stage, describing the rise of Athens in clear and lively prose. After Pericles convinces the citizens to build a new temple for Athena, the narrative's focus shifts to the actual construction. Full-color paintings show the components of the building with just enough detail. An impressive four-page foldout spread conveys the majesty of the temple and identifies neatly labeled specific components. The illustrations are nicely complemented by black-and-white photographs of some of the temple's remaining sculptures. Descriptions of the architectural challenges presented by the project and of the final artistic accomplishments are very effective. Beyond the architectural information, the author conveys the wide-ranging significance of the building. The Parthenon was an integral part of the city's religion, culture, politics, and even finances, and bringing out these impacts provides readers with a strong feel for the golden age of Athens.—Steven Engelfried, Beaverton City Library, OR

Gr 7 Up—Guevara's life, from his early years in one of Argentina's wealthiest families to mythic guerrilla revolutionary, is covered in detail. The author recounts how Che's childhood in a prominent but socialist-leaning family influenced many early decisions, including an all-important choice to study medicine. Guevara traveled Latin America as a young man, and encounters with peasants in the countryside sparked a determination that would guide his ideology throughout his life. A burning desire to see the downfall of capitalism through whatever means necessary, including armed revolution, spurred him to seek out causes and people that could help make that happen. The bulk of the book focuses on Guevara's time spent working closely with Fidel Castro to overthrow Batista and his U.S.-backed government. The writing is engaging and thorough; even students with just a passing knowledge of the man will find much here to capture their attention. Copious source notes, a detailed time line, and helpful black-and-white and color photographs round out this volume.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 4–6—With its focus on the development of warning systems, Morrison's book fills a niche among the recent slew of tsunami titles. Explaining that the 2004 Indian Ocean disaster prompted governments worldwide to create warning systems, the author goes into the story of the 1946 Aleutian Island earthquake and the resulting tsunami that struck Hilo, HI. Following the destruction of the Scotch Cap Lighthouse on Unimak Island in Alaska, the wave moved toward Hawaii, where it struck hours later without warning. Although magnetic seismometers were in use to monitor quakes, their recording paper took a day to develop, rendering the system incapable of timely warnings. This tragedy spurred the development of a warning system by the Coast and Geodetic Survey. The story continues with the system's first real test in 1957, when another Aleutian quake was detected and warnings in Hawaii prevented the loss of life. Morrison explains the way ocean bottom sensors detect tsunamis and relay warnings. The text is brief and could use more elaboration in spots, but it is nonetheless effective. Attractive paintings help tell the story and demonstrate the technology involved.—Jeffrey A. French, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Gr 5–9—This is a well-written and insightful look at the professional and personal life of a 20th-century photographer. Although Evans originally wanted to be a writer, he had photos printed in small magazines and in some galleries while still in his 20s. Nau recounts his friendships with Hart Crane and James Agee, among others, which led to other assignments. Eventually, Evans went to work for Fortune magazine where he spent 20 years. The America that he documented was often that of ordinary people and disappearing architecture. Rich in details and unstaged, his works offer candid glimpses of our society, from Coney Island in the 1920s to Southern tenant farmers in the 1930s, and, later, to small towns and signs in the '70s. Excellent examples of the various periods appear throughout. The text succeeds in portraying his determination to photograph what mattered to him rather than what conventional wisdom might have dictated. Although the focus is on his professional life, mention is made of his marriages and bouts with alcoholism. This slim volume provides a thoughtful depiction of a complex man whose artistry with a camera immortalized many aspects of American society.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 7 Up—The history and evolution of the court and how it works are discussed in the first chapter. Thematic sections follow, covering such topics as free speech, privacy, and civil rights, with significant decisions included. The cases are arranged chronologically, giving readers a sense of how the court's opinions have changed over time. Throughout, interviews with a variety of people involved in Supreme Court cases add to the text. They include former attorneys general, politicians, lawyers, and litigants. Some of the interviews contribute a wider perspective on issues, while others give personal insight into the case and the time period. The variety and arrangement of photos, drawings, posters, and news clippings add interest and help to break up the text into manageable chunks. Some of the activities are of dubious value ("Be a Court Stenographer"—court cases are now recorded, not typed), and others may be too time-consuming for many of today's standards-based, high-stakes-testing classrooms (electing a class Supreme Court and holding mock trials). All in all, though, this a solid work that makes a complex and important subject accessible to students.—Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School Library, CA

Gr 9 Up—In spite of the tongue-in-cheek title, this book seriously addresses the issue of ADHD, covering a variety of topics including symptoms, diagnosis, causes, and treatment options. All of the information is presented in a straightforward manner; the author provides a historical perspective as well as material that is hot off the research presses, boiled down and delivered in a way that can be read and understood by older teens. The final chapter presents short profiles of a few people who have lived successfully with ADHD. Black-and-white photographs, charts, and attractive headings break up the text, keeping readers interested and attentive. The glossary, resource list, and source notes add to the substance offered here, making this title useful not only for personal edification, but also for research.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 8 Up—Although many people associate the names Watson and Crick with the discovery of DNA, few know that Franklin took the photograph that led the two men to their conclusions. Written in an easy-to-read manner, this book highlights her personal and professional struggles, and readers interested in the history of science will marvel at how such a huge player in the discovery of the double helix could have been overlooked. Black-and-white and color pictures complement the text, and some of them illustrate scientific concepts. The book is carefully annotated, has a detailed index, and includes helpful Web sites. A fine addition to large science collections.—Delia Carruthers, Sunset Ridge Middle School, West Jordan, UT

Gr 5–8—Raimondo introduces six prominent Pop artists—Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Jasper Johns, Claes Oldenburg, and George Segal. First she describes each man's creative technique, and then she invites readers to observe one of their well-known works by asking questions such as, "How do you think he used his brush?" Finally, she suggests projects that imitate the artists' methods. Most of the required materials can be found around the house or are readily available at a craft store, and written instructions for each project are easy to follow. The text is printed in a variety of fonts on brightly colored pages. Frequent words in bold and contrasting polygon text boxes might be distracting to some readers. Most of the illustrations are color photographs of art projects made by children and the author rather than pictures of the artists' works. Biographical information is limited to a paragraph about each artist on the final spread; as a result, this book doesn't stand alone as an introduction to the period, but is a good companion to more extensive overviews such as Anne Fitzpatrick's Late Modernism (Creative Education, 2005).—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 8 Up—This book, part of a series focusing on immigrant communities benefiting from the 1965 liberalization of U.S. immigration laws, describes the history of Indian migration to the United States. There are also occasional mentions of Indian Canadians and Canadian immigration policy. Study questions are included at the end of each chapter. The book also includes black-and-white and color photos; tables and charts; and a map of India. Spotlights scattered throughout the text focus on specific Indian Americans or topics such as tracing roots. The various laws and bills passed throughout the years hindering immigration from India are described in a level of detail that may confuse some readers, but the book's biggest drawback is that it has no pronunciation guides. Still, this is a useful addition for collections on immigration, Indian Americans, or American history.—S K Joiner, Brazoria County Library System, Angleton, TX

Gr 7 Up—Reef has penned an engaging and informative chronicle of the life of this talented and unconventional artist. Each chapter is packed with details of cummings's life and work, all carefully documented with source notes. Period photos and reproductions, including a number of cummings's drawings and paintings, illustrate his life and the world events that he experienced. His unique poetic style is explained and illustrated with well-chosen selections. His financial hardships as well as his romantic struggles and failed relationships are also examined. An excellent resource for students of the poet's literary works, this is also a solid example of literary biography, and as such should also appeal to readers interested in the lives of noteworthy artists. A high-quality effort.—Elaine Fort Weischedel, Milton Public Library, MA

Gr 4—6—Coral Reef is the most focused of these three titles, especially in its discussion of the corals themselves, including their life cycles and sexual and asexual reproduction, and current concerns about reef damage caused by pollution, global warming (never defined), and drastic fishing techniques. Predators presents snippets about a broad panoply of marine hunters and grazers, while Survival offers a pastiche of defense mechanisms, schooling behavior, and camouflage. However, several creatures named in the texts never appear in the index, and for some that do appear, readers are merely directed to a photo. Parrotfish are presented as coral-reef grazers in one title, but are not included in a paragraph on grazers in another. Words in bold are defined in the glossaries (where definitions may vary from title to title). All contain an eye-pleasing plethora of brightly colored photos of corals, fish, sea stars, and other inhabitants of the reef and the open ocean. If you already own such titles as Dorothy Hinshaw Patent's well-written Colorful Captivating Coral Reefs (Walker, 2003) or Salvatore Tocci's more demanding but informative Coral Reefs: Life Below the Sea (Watts, 2004) and/or Mary M. Cerullo's nifty Coral Reef: A City That Never Sleeps (Dutton, 1996), you may not need these.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 4–6—This biography introduces an obscure but fascinating American Revolution figure—a patriotic precursor to Madame Tussaud. Born in Oyster Bay, NY, in 1725, Patience Lovell grew up in a Quaker household. From an early age, she exhibited a gift for creating lifelike sculptures, first using clay, and later, wax. Widowed at 45, she moved to Philadelphia, where she opened an art studio. Wealthy clients commissioned busts and figures of themselves. After establishing permanent exhibits in Philadelphia and New York, Wright opened a London studio. Letters of introduction from Ben Franklin helped to establish her success in England. While her efforts to persuade King George not to wage war on the colonies failed, her engaging nature helped her obtain information from members of Parliament and military officers. "Patience led them into revealing secrets by offering wrong information, which they immediately corrected." She put the secrets inside hollow busts that she sent back home, revealing which colonists took bribes from the British, as well as details about enemy weapons and attacks. The delicately rendered, gouache-and-pastel illustrations, covering full spreads, portray the artist, the early American landscape, period costumes, and life-size, fully dressed sculptures. The one of Franklin's head looks alarmingly alive, as the coloring, facial expression, and eyes are so real. Use this unique biography to enrich social-studies units on the Revolution and on women's history.—Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools

Gr 5–8—Although each book focuses on a different environmental issue, readers will readily see the connections among them. Climate, for instance, discusses the rise of diseases such as malaria as a result of global warming. Each title begins with a two-page map identifying the specific threats affecting different parts of the world, followed by scientific background for the ensuing discussion. The Spilsburys explore the human need for water, sources of water, purification treatment, and usage. Wallerstein discusses what is meant by life expectancy, the major causes of illnesses, and animal testing. All of the authors suggest possible personal and societal actions regarding the problems and their solutions. Their silence on population control as a basic solution, however, is a serious omission. Overall, these are good resources with vivid and relevant color photos illustrating different issues. Back matter in each volume includes two pages of relevant statistical tables. There are other, more in-depth books on these topics, but the focus on global and environmental justice makes these titles a useful start for further exploration.—Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL

Gr 4–6—This series entry introduces students to notable figures of the period. With excellent, full-page reproductions of Renaissance paintings, the book gives a sense of the importance of the arts during this time. Prominent scientists, explorers, and innovators are also highlighted, but no women are included. While a five-page introduction gives readers a bit of background, no mention is made of the debate over what time period the word "Renaissance" actually implies. The 15 chronologically arranged, single-page profiles are clear and concise, while occasionally oversimplified: Venice is labeled as part of Italy, though it was an independent government at the time, and Dante Alighieri's refers to his time "as a college student." Also, a Web site listed in the section on further resources is marred by a typo, which makes it inaccessible without turning to a search engine. Despite these problems, the short sketches are accessible introductions to notable individuals whom students will be sure to encounter in their continued education. —Alana Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT

Gr 4–7—Through a straightforward text, excellent maps, and a variety of full-color and historical photographs, students will gain a clear introduction to the country. Short, focused chapters and "At a Glance" spreads that pair facts with maps present information on the geography, environment, history, culture, government, and economy. The maps are especially illustrative as they include notations pointing out where photographs were taken. Although there are many books about Kenya, this one is clearly a standout. There is even a section at the end entitled, "Add a Little Extra to Your Country Report!" that suggests ideas and Web addresses for expanding students' knowledge. For those in need of an overview that is both factual as well as photographic, this is a good choice.—Genevieve Gallagher, Murray Elementary School, Charlottesville, VA

Gr 5—8—Law addresses the control and status of immigrants, visas, seeking asylum, smuggling and trafficking, acquiring rights and citizenship, and more. The second title presents the challenges, opportunities, obstacles, and hardships endured by those integrating into a new society. Multicultural World explores how various cultures have influenced one another, European colonialism, and benefits of multiculturalism. The last title explains the many reasons for migrating. Each spread in this four-book series has attractive color and black-and-white photos. Relevant personal accounts add interest and a human side to the issues, and sidebars provide additional material, including definitions, facts, and statistics, but interrupt the flow of the text in some places. These slim, brightly covered books will be useful for social-studies units.—Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE

Gr 6 Up—This book has easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions for making a variety of bags, totes, wallets, etc., accompanied by color cartoon-style illustrations and photos of finished items. Tools include pinking shears and a utility knife, and a sewing machine is recommended over hand sewing; some knowledge of sewing is assumed, although construction tips are included. Many of the bags are made from creative materials such as clear plastic, neckties, and place mats. A good addition where sewing is popular.—G. Alyssa Parkinson, Highland Township Library, MI

Gr 2–6—The year is 1936, and Owens is about to win an unprecedented four Olympic gold medals in Berlin, toppling Hitler's dream to showcase Aryan superiority. Written in second-person narration, the book focuses tightly on Owens's accomplishments, giving details about each of the four races and his role in uniting people across racial lines. Rich pastel illustrations, many of them based on historical photographs, make this title stand out from biographies illustrated with black-and-white photographs. As a picture book, it gives a sparsely detailed sketch of the events and has a few references that will need further explanation, such as Jim Crow, the autobahn, and concentration camps. The author omits the controversy surrounding Owens's last-minute replacement of a Jewish runner in the 400-meter relay. Briefly referring to the sprinter's childhood and segregation in the United States, the narrator encourages him to "Trounce Jim Crow," illustrated with a fictionalized picture of him running past segregated water fountains. What details exist are clearly researched. The book works well as an introduction for students old enough to begin talking about segregation in the United States and Hitler's Germany. Endnotes give background information.—Suzanne Myers Harold, Multnomah County Library System, Portland, OR

Gr 4–8—Chaucer's pilgrims come to life in this energetic retelling of nine tales. The most familiar stories—"The Nun's Priest's Tale," "The Pardoner's Tale," and "The Wife of Bath's Tale"—are here, as are the earthier Miller's and Summoner's tales, and the clever Knight's and Clerk's tales. Quotes in medieval English are featured in dialogue bubbles, while the stories themselves are told in clear modern prose with a poetic bent. For example, in the "The Wife of Bath's Tale," the knight "glimpsed a group of delightful damsels dancing in a glade." As happens throughout the text, children are introduced to elevated vocabulary that captures the original intent of Chaucer's poetry, while elucidating the meaning of the unfamiliar words through the illustrations. Throughout, the juxtaposition of medieval and modern English adds to the comic feel. The watercolor-and-ink cartoon art displayed in a comic-book format is a perfect match for the raucous and sometimes-raw humor, with exaggerated facial expressions and purposely disproportionate body parts. For instance, in "The Miller's Tale," when Alison offers her bottom out the window for Absolon to kiss, it is a rather prominent derriere that meets his waiting lips, a fact that is sure to provoke loud guffaws from students. The essence of each tale is intact, allowing the audience to savor Chaucer's genius, with free use of words such as "fart." Williams's collection is an excellent opportunity to expose children to more accounts than the four in Barbara Cohen's The Canterbury Tales (HarperCollins, 1988). A sure way to hook kids into reading classic literature.—Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI

Gr 5–8—Wukovits does a credible job of adding historical perspective to a straightforward account of Robinson's life and accomplishments. He sets the stage by focusing on baseball's history of racial exclusion, and on the discrimination faced by the athlete and his family. He covers Robinson's military career and his brief stint in the Negro Leagues before he signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Robinson's triumphant career in the major leagues and his later life are detailed as well. This is a well-researched and concise account, geared to the needs of report writers. Black-and-white photographs round out the text. For a more comprehensive look at segregation's effect on baseball history, steer readers to these excellent books on the Negro Leagues: Lawrence S. Ritter's Leagues Apart (HarperCollins, 1995) and Patricia and Frederick McKissack's Black Diamond (Scholastic, 1994).—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA