Grades 5 & Up

Gr 5–8—When an environmental agent is murdered on her grandfather's farm, Ingrid Levin-Hill, 13, is again cast in the role of detective. Her grandfather is the primary suspect, but she knows that honorable, independent, and sometimes cranky Grampy could not have committed the crime. So why does he refuse to give an alibi? From the outset Major Ferrand seems a much more likely suspect. He also is a World War II veteran and the town newspaper is about to present a series of articles featuring the three men from Echo Falls who served in the war. Alymer Hill refuses to offer an alibi for his whereabouts at the time of the shooting (the killer using coincidentally a World War II issue rifle). The story is accessible, and Ingrid's ability to not only think through the crime but also solve it is impressive. There's suspense, as Ingrid is captured by the murderer during her investigation, and a fire that also puts her life in danger. Additional appeal comes from Ingrid's friendship with the sheriff's son and her relationship with her brother and grandfather.—Sheila Fiscus, Our Lady of Peace School, Erie, PA

Gr 5–7—Thirteen-year-old Tommy's life in the Bronx in 1940 is dominated by the Brooklyn Dodgers and radio shows, while his politically aware friend Beth continually tries to tell him her concerns about the raging war overseas. Newspaper headlines and radio reports reflect Germany's successive invasions across Europe, but Tommy, influenced by his dad's opinion that America should stay out of the conflict, is indifferent to what is happening faraway to people he doesn't know. His simple neighborhood life is overshadowed by worry about his symptomatic mother, who is ultimately diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. As his family situation becomes more complicated and distressing, his friendship with Beth, whose mother died of cancer, strengthens. This coming-of-age story introduces the war's particular consequences for Jews through their schoolmate Sarah, who fled Germany with her family. Sandwiched between Beth and Sarah, sensitive Tommy relies on their compassion while trying to maintain a normal male camaraderie with his baseball-loving friends. His appreciation for the world's threatened freedom takes hold as events bring the war closer to U.S. soil. Readers may identify with Tommy's disinterest in politics while going about his everyday life.—Rita Soltan, Youth Services Consultant, West Bloomfield, MI

Gr 7–10—Cherries have not been harvested at Cherry Heaven since the shooting deaths of the last owners a decade earlier. Despite their regret at having to relocate from the war-torn five cities to the New Frontier, sisters Kat and Tanka feel somewhat relieved to be living at the outstanding house at Cherry Heaven. Once settled in their new home, they discover that Meander town isn't as peaceful and comfortable as it seems on the surface. Intelligent and inquisitive Kat sees through the facade and questions the events of the past, and ultimately forces the townspeople to face up to the truths of life in Meander. Alternating chapters from the point of view of Kat and a slave girl who desperately wants to escape so she can expose the truth about murders long forgotten make this novel a multidimensional exploration of race, class, adventure, and ethics while remaining a nonstop page-turner. This accessible story, a companion to The Diary of Pelly D (HarperCollins, 2005), provides many opportunities for deeper discussions and thought. With many subtle references to the current worldwide exploitation and discrimination toward certain groups of people, it would be a good cross-curriculum classroom study.—Dylan Thomarie, Johnstown High School, NY

Gr 9 Up—Jayson Porter, 16, spends his days as a struggling scholarship student at a prep school in a wealthy Florida suburb, and the rest of his time at home in the projects avoiding his abusive white alcoholic mother, checking in on his wasted-on-crack black father, and smoking dope with his friend Trax. Jayson knows how to survive in "the hood," but the mounting pressures of his mother's beatings, his challenges at school, and his menial job build until he sees suicide as his only escape. The idea of jumping from the 18th-floor breezeway outside his apartment door entices him. Trax is killed in a meth-lab explosion, and then Jayson's father lets slip that he and Lizzie aren't really his parents, but stole him from their friend Trina when all were drug addicts living together. It's the last straw, and Jayson jumps, but only from the seventh floor. He survives but with a broken neck, narrowly missing serious paralysis, and facing months of surgery, therapy, and rehabilitation. Jayson's first-person narration throbs with the pain of his life, revealing the frightened teen behind the cocky exterior. Adoff writes candidly, with carefully chosen details carrying a wealth of insight, in a style approaching free verse that draws out the complexities of Jayson's character as he deals with sexuality, self-esteem, and identity. The ending is a bit too tidy, but Jayson is a vivid, dynamic character who will get under readers' skin.—Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 7–10—A government survey estimated in 2003 that 4000 women had been trafficked into the UK for sexual exploitation; that number may well be larger today. Bell puts a human face on such statistics in this poignant story of two unhappy 14-year-olds who end up in a Turkish-run brothel above a London fish-and-chips shop. Looking for a better life and believing the flashy young man who promised her work, Oksana left her impoverished village in rural Russia, only to become the slave of the series of men who took over her care. In an escape attempt she takes refuge in the van belonging to a wealthy English businessman whose daughter, Hope, conceals her near their farm home and promises to take her to London. Instead, the two are captured together and delivered to the brothel owners who had ordered two European girls. Oksana's story is revealed slowly, in flashbacks that show how strongly she has come to believe that her condition is what she deserves. Only Oksana is raped (without explicit description) and sent off to "work." Perhaps the English girl is being saved for the Internet, or, more likely, for ransom. Told in alternating first-person narratives, this harrowing account is an appropriate companion to Patricia McCormick's Sold (Hyperion, 2006).—Kathleen Isaacs, Towson University, MD

Gr 7 Up—"The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference." Madge, 16, makes Elie Weisel's statement her mantra, promising to never be indifferent, even as it takes her to extreme, unrealistic measures. As the only person of color in rural Hollowdale, PA, except for her Indian friend, Krishna, who moved there in ninth grade, Madge has never felt at peace. Her tough-talking white mother is an ex-con and illegal British immigrant and Madge has never met her Jamaican father. Even with that weak set-up, the book remains readable until Madge decides to bring home Timmy, an impoverished, Hispanic four-year-old boy she met while visiting her white, newspaper reporter cousin in New York City. Madge, who has essentially kidnapped Timmy, acts like he's her own child, letting her once-stellar grades and at least mildly interesting social life fall by the wayside. Benedict's first YA novel suffers from too many competing issues, including biracial identity, racism, child abuse, and the troubled New York City foster-care system. With its resolution that raises far more problems than it solves, strong language, and lack of focus, it's hard to envision this book at home in any library. Instead, recommend Chris Crutcher's Whale Talk (Greenwillow, 2001) for topics of racial identity and Catherine Ryan Hyde's The Year of My Miraculous Reappearance (Knopf, 2007) for issues of child welfare.—Sarah Krygier, Solano County Library, Fairfield, CA

Gr 4–6—Max and his crew of Griffins continue their magical and tactical education in this last volume in the trilogy. As in the "Harry Potter" books, the adventure follows a group of friends with varying magical abilities, and the addition of the Knights Templar to the story line makes it an intriguing mix of fiction and history. Morgan La Fey and the evil Lord Sumner, Max's father, have tricked Max into giving him the powerful Spear of Ragnarok so that the wicked man can destroy the world. Max and his friends must descend into the Underworld and beat Lord Sumner and his band of Black Wolves to the Eye of Odin, the only weapon that can be used against the Spear. The plot is interesting, but the only thing keeping the book from becoming wholly cliché are additions like the Knights Templar's FBI-like mode of operation and a Griffin that is slowly becoming a Changeling in an amusing manner. However, the characters are not completely fleshed out, and the adults are two-dimensional stereotypes. The plot turns sickly sweet at the end, and readers are pounded over the head with the moral. This one is only for those who read the first two books and want to find out what happens to Max and his friends.—Jennifer-Lynn Draper, Children's Literature Consultant, Aurora, ON, Canada

Gr 9 Up—This compilation is sure to please most readers. Well-known writers such as Holly Black, Cecil Castellucci, and Nina Kiriki Hoffman appear along with lesser-known talents. The selections vary from high-tech to goblin wizardry, and they all integrate common YA issues into the story lines. For example, cheating boyfriends are spied on using a magic ring, and a bullied teen gets his revenge with the help of a dark god. In the space of a few pages the authors have created settings and moods that carry teens into another world from the start. A solid purchase for all fiction lovers, not just fantasy fanatics.—Jennifer-Lynn Draper, Children's Literature Consultant, Aurora, ON, Canada

Gr 9 Up—In this epic tale of global warming and environmental disaster set at the dawn of the next century, 15-year-old Mara has lived with the realization that the world is drowning. Growing up on Wing, she has watched her North Atlantic island become smaller each year, and people have long ago abandoned technology in their struggles to subsist. After a particularly bad ocean surge, another part of the village is lost. This spurs Mara to convince the villagers that they will have a chance at a new life in the Sky Cities, which she has located on the now-defunct version of the Internet. After a grueling journey, the refugees find themselves locked out of the city by a giant wall. As sickness and disease claim some of her people, Mara decides to find a way into the city to save them. Through the netherworld (under the city), the teen has encounters with the ratbashers (urchins) and the Treenesters. The Treenesters think that Mara is The Face in the Stone that will save them. Ecologically conscious teens will embrace this girl who is destined to save humanity.—June H. Keuhn, Corning East High School, NY

Gr 4–8—The Penderwick sisters are back. Their Aunt Claire has come for a visit, bringing with her a letter from their late mother that encourages their father to date, and an immediate crisis ensues, as the girls assume that this is the first step on the treacherous road to having a stepmother. After frantic consultation, they implement the "Save Daddy" plan, designed to set him up with perfectly dreadful women so that he will not want to date again. Numerous subplots add to the domestic drama. Skye struggles with her temper on the soccer field. Rosalind and neighbor Tommy experience a frustrated romance. Skye and Jane switch homework assignments, leading to a school performance of Jane's Aztec drama, with everyone thinking that it was penned by Skye. While the solution to the dating dilemma can be seen from the beginning, the sisters are so caught up in their drama that they can't see who's right next door. Laugh-out-loud moments abound and the humor comes naturally from the characters and situations. Especially funny is the scene in which the youngest Penderwick hides in the car hoping to spy on one of her father's dates. Like much of the book itself, this scene resolves itself in a tender moment between father and daughter. This is a book to cherish and to hold close like a warm, cuddly blanket that you draw around yourself to keep out the cold.—Tim Wadham, Maricopa County Library District, Phoenix, AZ

Gr 3–6—This adventure novel starts when Vasco, a rat, finds his tribe mysteriously decimated. He reluctantly joins another group, but has a violent encounter with its cruel leader and strikes out on his own. Though he is followed by several new friends, he constantly wrestles with self-doubt. Having determined that their kind is being aggressively exterminated in the city, Vasco decides to seek a safe haven in another land and leads his new tribe aboard an ocean freighter. Unfortunately, accidental imprisonment in the ship's hold, starvation, and warfare with other rats continue to threaten their survival. Their eventual landing still fails to provide a safe haven. An eventful trip through the jungle and final epic battle provide a satisfying ending. Chased by tragedy and certain death at every turn, Vasco transforms from quiet follower to thoughtful leader. All the while, he struggles with maintaining his control over the independent-minded members of the group and tries to convince them that the old ways are not always best. Bondoux does an excellent job of setting the story firmly and believably in the rodent world while imbuing the characters with enough human qualities to allow young readers to relate to them. Animal lovers who crave edge-of-your-seat action and the triumph of reason over violence will love this page-turner.—Nicki Clausen-Grace, Carillon Elementary School, Oviedo, FL

Gr 5–8—In 2006 alone, nearly 600,000 people fled war-torn countries and authoritarian regimes, seeking asylum in safer parts of the world. Seeing a child climb a fence to enter the Channel Tunnel between France and Britain inspired Bradman to solicit original short stories on this theme. The result is this moving collection of 11 powerful narratives, quite different in their particulars but astonishingly similar in their sense of loss and loneliness. Some are written by people who were themselves refugees: Solomon Gebremedhin was 17 when he wrote the title story, based on his journey from Ethiopia. Others have worked with refugees in the U.K. and elsewhere. While most of the stories focus on current asylum-seekers in Britain, one looks back to a Vietnamese child's trip to Australia, and another is set in an unnamed Eastern European country, a dead end for many. Gaye Hicyilmaz offers a different perspective, writing of a time in her English childhood when she ignored a refugee child in need. The Congo, Eritrea, Iraq, Turkey, Kosovo, Zimbabwe, Somalia, Sudan—around the world children leave familiar homes to find safety, but are not always welcome elsewhere. Perhaps sharing their experiences will help readers change that outcome.—Kathleen Isaacs, Towson University, MD

Gr 8 Up—Nothing much happened in Dayton, TN, until the summer of 1925. That was the year that J. T. Scopes, a science teacher at Rhea County High School, asked students to read a chapter on evolution from their textbook. Tennessee had recently passed a law against the teaching of evolution in public schools, and the American Civil Liberties Union was seeking an opportunity to prove that this law was unconstitutional. Mr. Robinson, a local store owner, thought that Scopes could bring publicity to the town and boost its stagnant economy, if he would submit to a trial. The ACLU pledged support, and the teacher found himself in the middle of one of the most controversial trials of the century. What ensued was a circuslike atmosphere that surprised and eventually divided the residents of Dayton. This novel in verse chronicles the events and drama of the trial. There is a host of characters, both fictitious and real: J. T. Scopes (real), William Jennings Bryan (real), Mr. Robinson (real), Clarence Darrow (real), Paul Lebrun (fictitious), and many students and citizens (fictitious). The poems are in first person, giving a voice to all primary stakeholders—the citizens, young and old, who are stunned by the chaos that erupts in their tiny town. The epilogue provides information about the events and the people following the trial. Bryant offers readers a ringside seat in this compelling and well-researched novel. It is fast-paced, interesting, and relevant to many current first-amendment challenges. Students who like this novel will also enjoy Robin Brande's Evolution, Me and Other Freaks of Nature (Knopf, 2007).—Pat Scales, formerly at South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities, Greenville

Gr 6–10—Cadnum attempts to answer a historical mystery: Did Walter Tirel shoot King William II of England by accident or design? Set in south England in AD 1100, the novel follows 18-year-old Simon's journey from bystander to Tirel's de facto accomplice. Born of a Norman-English union, Simon doesn't fit in with the conquerors or the vanquished. Thrilled to be invited to assist on a deer hunt, he witnesses the fateful shot (meant for the king's marshal Roland) and, with Tirel, flees for his life by horse and by sea. William's successor, Henry, turns a blind eye to the escape, hinting at Henry's own plans for his brother's demise. Readers could wish for no better guide through medieval England than Cadnum. He explores the concepts of fate, honor, and the changing political landscape with the surefooted poise of his noble characters. Through Simon's eyes, readers understand the difficulties of assimilating to foreign rule as well as the importance of each word spoken to powerful men like William and Tirel. Always, Cadnum's language is king. "English, the language of hill and river, but not the language of government." Until the hunt, the plot moves deliberately, explaining medieval customs and jobs and seamlessly setting the scene, but once the arrow is loosed, the action takes over, and the story becomes a breathless ride to freedom. Cadnum's elegiac style gracefully complements his tale of a time when honor and right speaking could cost or save a man's life.—Caitlin Augusta, The Darien Library, CT

Gr 4–6—Noah Nowicki and his younger sister live next to the Clarksville Zoo. One night, Megan mysteriously vanishes, leaving behind only a few pages from her diary as clues. Noah and his friends, Ella and Ritchie, who call themselves the Adventure Scouts, set out to rescue her. They befriend a batch of sentient yet nonspeaking zoo animals that include a polar bear named Blizzard; Podgy, a penguin; and Marlo, a Malachite Kingfisher. These creatures, who claim to know what happened to Megan, lead the Scouts into the zoo, which has a secret entrance to a fanciful land called the City of Species where animals and humans live alongside one another. During their stay, the children learn of the city's origin and discover that Megan was most likely taken to the Dark Lands, a place separated from the city and ruled by dangerous sasquatches, beasts that are half human, half gorilla. In order to enter this land to find her, the Scouts risk releasing hundreds of sasquatches into the city. This book, which is the first of a series, is a fast-paced mix of mystery and fantasy. There is enough action and suspense to keep the most reluctant reader entertained while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of friendship and teamwork. It promises to be the beginning of a popular series.—Donna Atmur, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 6–9—Emily, a junior, doesn't fit in with the superficial students at posh Crestview Prep. She nurtures a crush on her next-door neighbor, its basketball star, and she aspires to be editor-in-chief of the school newspaper. Chance brings her and her dream boy together and gives her a lead on a potentially winning story. Following that lead takes her places she never expected: both good and bad, but always funny and enlightening. In the end she learns the value of being true to herself and helping others. Plot twists and turns are sometimes predictable, sometimes surprising, and occasionally inexplicable, such as why this boy is suddenly so interested in her. The story is told in accessible first person. Emily is likable, if a little bland, but will hold the interest of most readers. She changes in realistic adolescent fits and starts. Chapter headings are formatted like newspaper headlines tracking the path of Hurricane Emily, a charming homage to the teen's journalistic goals.—Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

Gr 8 Up—Miles is wry, sarcastic, and smart, an almost-18-year-old Goth with a weight problem and a growing addiction to pharms. She and her "golden" cousin, Laura, were raised like sisters on their Georgetown estate, she in the carriage house out back with her mom, Laura in the main house with her wealthy gay father. In a first-person narrative peppered with flashbacks and essays written for school, Miles tells of Laura's suicide and a summer spent grieving. It's a story of Miles's changing perceptions of the people in her life: of Laura herself; Miles's best friend, Jamal, with whom she's falling in love; Jamal's affluent black family; Laura's grief-stricken father; and Miles's own parents (an artist mother who runs off to a boyfriend in London, and a formerly alcoholic, absentee father who shows up to watch over her). Cohn tackles a lot here: clinical depression, suicide, drug addiction, homosexuality, grief, Washington, DC 's racial and social stratifications, and the political fight for District statehood. Fans of titles such as Cohn's "Gingerbread" series and Pop Princess (2004, both S & S) will find a darker, more wrenching and poetic narrative, but may also get lost in the book's overabundance of social and political themes and wish for more insight into the relationship Miles mourns. While Cohn's characterizations occasionally teeter toward stereotype, the story's evolving relationships keep it compelling enough to propel readers through to its dramatic conclusion.—Riva Pollard, formerly at The Winsor School Library, Boston

Gr 7 Up—For many girls, the prospect of preparing for a London debut into society would be terribly exciting. Persephone Leland, however, would like nothing more than to read her books and practice her magic in private. It's 1837, and 17-year-old Persy, who lacks the confidence of her twin sister, is unprepared when their childhood friend Lochivar Seton appears once more in their lives and finds his way into Persy's heart. If that weren't enough, the girls' governess and tutor in magic has been kidnapped in conjunction with a sinister plot that will affect the future of Queen Victoria. When Persy messes with spells that have no place in 19th-century high society, things become a little more complicated, and a lot more exciting. A pleasant premise from the outset, the real problem with the book is just how unsympathetic its heroine is. Persephone is none too bright, perpetually self-pitying, and essentially unlikable. Though it starts out well, the story for the most part is predictable and the ending leaves more than a few loose strings dangling. For a better mix of a Jane Austen-like comedy of manners and magic, consider Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer's clever Sorcery and Cecelia or the Enchanted Chocolate Pot (Harcourt, 2003) instead.—Elizabeth Bird, New York Public Library

Gr 5–9—In 1939 Finland, Marko serves proudly as a sky watcher, a junior member of the Civil Guard. On November 30, when Russian bombers attack his village, his best friend is killed, and his younger sister and brother must evacuate to Sweden. A chance encounter with a former teacher, now an army lieutenant, propels Marko, who still limps as a result of a bout with polio, to the front lines. His familiarity with the area around Savolahti and his orienteering skills make him an ideal clandestine messenger, carrying information back and forth between the small companies of soldiers hidden in the hills. The Winter War, a little-known campaign of World War II, comes to life as Marko relates his experiences during the bone-chilling months of 1939 and 1940. Durbin's graphic depictions of the realities of war are not for the faint of heart, and he does not soften his message regarding the lack of support that America and the world showed Finland during this time. More than a war story, though, this is a tale of resilience and self-discovery: Marko finds unsuspected reservoirs of strength within himself. The endings for him and his friends are a little too pat, but an afterword and sources for further study will satisfy readers who want to learn more. An engaging novel for adventure lovers and fans of historical fiction alike.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 8–10—Jay and Haroon are caught up in parallel plots that begin when police initiate a school lockdown and arrest a Muslim student under suspicion of terrorist links. Tensions are sparked in the racially divided high school where "brown" students congregate in "Brown Town." Jay, a newcomer, is a football jock. Haroon provides contrast as a nerdish academic-quiz-team member, but he has come under police suspicion for being Muslim after another Muslim student says he understands why terrorists behave as they do. Further conflict leads to the vandalizing of Brown Town. On Halloween, the captain leads some footballers to vandalize houses, including Haroon's. Both boys struggle to understand people and events around them and must rise above the mistrust created by 9/11 to make powerful choices. Jay finally stands up to his bigoted team captain and Haroon overcomes his fear. The authors' intentions are noble as they bravely plot the course of two strangers becoming less strange. The climax is moving. Regrettably the story is peppered with dialogue and actions that are inaccurate of Muslims. Consequently the book unintentionally contributes to the continuation and reinforcement of stereotypes, which limits its usefulness.—Fawzia Gilani-Williams, Oberlin Public Library, OH

Gr 6–10—For anyone who has ever thrilled to the sight of gigantic creatures battling it out on the big screen—King Kong, T. rex, Godzilla, Gamera—here comes Tim, short for Tyrannosaur: Improved Model! Tim, a made-to-order superweapon modeled after T. rex but much, much larger, was created in a lab far beneath London's Trafalgar Square. When funding for the project is redirected by Britain's new prime minister, Tim is scheduled for execution. Fortunately for London and the rest of the world, he escapes his fate just in time to fight off a misguided scientist and his terrifying plot to take over the world using nanobots. Enthoven has created two of the most unlikely heroes ever in Tim and his sidekick, Chris, a 15-year-old who desperately wants to be cool and sophisticated, yet finds himself tied to Tim through an odd bracelet given to him by a mysterious woman during a class trip to the museum. Both characters are reluctantly resolute, neither is very bright, but together they just may save the world. This fun, action-driven, science fiction tale will be snapped up by restless boys who can never find books written just for them.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK

Gr 4–8—Gil is one of 5000 kids competing for fame and prizes in a fantastic event sponsored by the Golly Toy and Game Company. By solving a series of word games and puzzles, and passing physical challenges, he reaches the finals, where he must outshine four others, including an ex-classmate who may be cheating. Gil has further motivation to win—his father was wrongly accused of embezzling from the company, a personal stake that provides added interest. The challenges themselves are fun: the wordplay and codes required to solve them are tricky, but not impossible, and it's interesting to see the kids' thought processes. Part of the competition involves teaming up, and Gil shows leadership skills and learns to see his partners' hidden strengths. Adequate black-and-white drawings appear throughout. With occasionally stiff dialogue and fairly superficial supporting characters, the process of the Games is the main draw. Several plot contrivances, including the fact that the fathers of two of the finalists were rival Golly Toys employees, make things a bit less suspenseful. Despite these flaws, the appealing premise of a competition within a toy company headquarters recalls Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Knopf, 1964), and the puzzle solving may appeal to fans of Trenton Lee Stewart's The Mysterious Benedict Society (Little, Brown, 2007) or Blue Balliett's Chasing Vermeer (Scholastic, 2004), making Feldman's book a workable, though less satisfying, follow-up to those titles.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 9 Up—Cameryn Mahoney, 17-year-old forensics expert and assistant to her father, the county coroner of Silverton, CO, is back for her third case, which involves the apparent suicide of a girl whom Cameryn's estranged mother picked up as a hitchhiker only hours before. As it becomes increasingly obvious that the victim was murdered, Cameryn struggles to shield her mother from the authorities while trying to find out the truth about the girl's death, which involves a polygamist cult very loosely based on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She is also attempting to learn more about her mother's past and her parents' separation. In her desperation to solve the case, she enters into an email correspondence with a dean of the CU College of Forensics, but all is not as it seems. As with the previous two books, there is an abundance of gruesome and accurate forensic detail that will delight CSI fans, and the story is fast paced and exciting enough to hook reluctant readers as well as mystery enthusiasts. The conclusion is a real shocker (although those who read the second book may see it coming), and Ferguson definitely leaves the door open for a sequel.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 7–9—Andrea, the youngest of four princesses in the kingdom of Montemaior, is forced to give up her dream of being a knight and become a lady. In a stolen conversation outside a formal ball, she receives confirmation of a hidden door to another world. Wearing a strange gift from her Tío Ramiro, a jacket with the mysterious words "University of California" written across the chest, Andrea runs away from her family's castle, stumbles into a cave at high tide, finds herself on Earth, and learns that Tío Ramiro and her mother came to Montemaior through the hidden door when they were teens. Tío returned to California, but her mother was wooed away by her father to become queen. Andrea soon attends classes at UC Davis and craves to keep this life beyond the walls of her father's kingdom. Caught in a rainstorm near a cave, Andrea and her friend John accidentally return to Montemaior. His presence in the kingdom is a threat, until he falls in love with Andrea's sister, which encourages Rosa to break her engagement to the heir of a rival kingdom. Rosa's abandoned suitor then declares war on Montemaior. In her first novel, Ferreiro-Esteban shows potential and presents an interesting take on old world vs. new world, but the romantic plot between Rosa and John means that Andrea's story feels neglected. Those looking for a more finessed story about a young woman trying to succeed in a man's world might turn to Tamora Pierce, but Two Moon Princess is worth a second look.—Sarah Krygier, Solano County Library, Fairfield, CA

Gr 6 Up—Katie Wilder, 14, is convinced that her family's move from Manhattan to rural upstate New York is the worst thing that could happen. A city girl through and through, she can't imagine living where denim overalls and plaid shirts are the outfits of choice. She and her sister were both ballerinas in New York City. Michaela was the star pupil that Katie always wanted to be, with a place at Julliard after graduation. So when Michaela actually likes and fits in at Fir Lake, Katie feels totally left out. She can't understand what's gotten into her older sister, who's keeping a couple of shattering (for Katie) secrets. Katie is so jealous when Michaela gets a hot boyfriend and is elected homecoming queen that she can hardly stand it. After several months, Katie finally finds a friend and starts liking the small town, which takes the pressure off Michaela to be Katie's everything. Though the conflict seems perhaps a little too weak to carry a 400-page book, and parts of the plot seem totally unrealistic, the story is still likely to be popular. There's sweetness in Friedman's teen world, and some of her characters are delightful. And who can resist a good sister book?—Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 5–8—As the last born in a family of nine siblings, the lass is a source of great displeasure to her mother. Angry that she had been unlucky enough to produce a girl, the woman denies her a name. Nevertheless, the child finds happiness in a close relationship with her older brother. This closeness is broken when an enchanted polar bear enters her home and demands that she spend a year and a day with him in return for her family attaining riches and good fortune. This exciting tale built on the foundation of an old Nordic tale is a work of great beauty. George demonstrates her mastery of both Norwegian folklore and storytelling by taking an old yet familiar story and making it captivating from start to finish. As the nameless lass searches for the answers to the riddles that surround her and her loved ones, readers will find themselves engaged in the emotions and adventures that she faces. They will be taken on wild rides across the countryside on the back of a polar bear, experience life in an enchanted ice castle, and fly on the winds of the far corners of the Earth, as the girl moves swiftly toward her inevitable destiny.—Caryl Soriano, New York Public Library

Gr 5–9—Pale, stocky Will Burrows, 14, never felt that he belonged at school or at home. In his predominantly self-absorbed family, Will's younger sister, meticulous Rebecca, maintains the house while Mrs. Burrows languishes in front of the TV and stereotypically scattered Dr. Burrows is preoccupied with archaeological paraphernalia. Will is happiest in tunnels he excavates beneath town with the help of friend, and fellow outcast, Chester. Though he and his father share a mutual obsession with archaeology, they separately engage in secret digs and both unearth "The Colony," a dangerous society hidden since the 1700s in an impressive network of tunnels and caverns. Its people have their own theology, social hierarchy, and a disdainful superiority complex. The Colonists and Styx (the more powerful, arrogant, malicious class) fear and revile "Topsoilers," lying in wait for their destruction. Revolutionary, "Topsoil"-friendly thinkers exist but most of the people fall in line in this grimy, Dickensian society. Although the story is slow to start, once Dr. Burrows disappears and Will (with Chester) stumbles into the Colony's perilous outpost, the pace of the adventure picks up. Readers will root for loyal, impetuous, overwhelmed Will as he discovers his roots, faces betrayal, and struggles to save those he cares for. Purchase this for the intriguing plot (including a surprising twist) and subterranean settings. Several still-buried mysteries, fates unknown, and the final gripping chapters promise an anticipated sequel.—Danielle Serra, Cliffside Park Public Library, NJ

Gr 6–10—This fantasy portrays a strange but somewhat familiar world. Dovella is an apprentice engineer as well as an apprentice healer. When the Village's water supply begins to dwindle, she is sent to the source to find out what is causing the problem. Getting there involves traveling through lands inhabited by the untrustworthy Hill Folk and the deadly Raiders. Guided on her quest by Zagoad, a young Forester, the girl slowly discovers that her ingrained prejudice against outsiders is unfounded. The story switches between the quest and life in the Village, which becomes even more treacherous as one person tries to use religion to gain power over the inhabitants. The strength of the novel is the incredibly complex and detailed society that has been carefully constructed by the author and is just as carefully revealed throughout the book. Dovella, Zagoad, and the other characters are vividly portrayed, though it is odd that Dovella's parents are not as prejudiced as she is toward non-Villagers. Nonetheless, the book features interesting individuals in a compelling society that faces great dangers. Recommend to readers who enjoy Tamora Pierce's work.—Tasha Saecker, Menasha Public Library, WI

Gr 5–7—Portia Avatar, 12, lives in Palmville, CA, with her vegetarian mom, Indigo, and her cat. The novel covers five days, beginning with an earthquake at 3:47 a.m. Portia has created reasons that explain why her father has never been a part of her life and has given him an imaginary one. The earthquake shakes loose a photograph of him and a ring. Portia's preoccupation with her father is contrasted with her everyday experiences like checking out the effects of the earthquake, sending and receiving PDA messages to her friend Amy Clamdigger, helping right her mom's damaged health food restaurant, and doing community service. Portia's dreams and their interpretations are also included. Although the mystery of her father's absence is never solved, Portia does learn that she can rely on her mother's love and her community's support. Frequently the narrative is clever and chatty, but Portia tells readers so much about events, feelings, and other characters that it bogs down. This protagonist is lively and hip, but her story falters with the proliferation of details.—Kathryn Kosiorek, formerly at Cuyahoga County Public Library, Brooklyn, OH

Gr 8 Up—Seconds into her first kiss, Scarlett watches her dream guy, Dan, fall to the floor dead. Traumatized, she switches from one posh English girls' school to another, where a mysterious note forces her to question whether he died naturally or was murdered. Sharp, witty narration makes Scarlett's simple sleuthing a lark. Teens will find themselves enamored with Henderson's sassy British colloquialisms and the protagonist's pluck. Her gymnastics skills, which surface at key moments throughout the story, will inspire oohs and aahs as well. A cliff-hanger ending might frustrate readers looking for resolution, but like a complicated tumbling sequence, this lithe mystery has great momentum.—Shelley Huntington, New York Public Library

Gr 4–7—Temporarily living with his mom at his grandparents' home on Bird Lake, 12-year-old Mitch Sinclair's plans to make the seemingly abandoned house next door his own are shattered when Spencer Stone arrives with his family. Both the Sinclairs and the Stones are in crisis—Mitch's parents are divorcing, and Spencer's parents are returning to the house for the first time since the death of their son Matty, who drowned there when Spencer was two. While each boy is deeply affected by his family's drama, both are powerless to influence its unfolding. Mitch, indignant at the Stoneses' intrusion, attempts to scare them off by creating mysterious signs that suggest a ghostly presence. Spencer observes these signs but chooses not to share them with his family. Eventually, the boys meet and connect immediately, leaving Mitch resolved to set things right. Characters are gently and believably developed as the story weaves in and around the beautiful Wisconsin setting. The superbly crafted plot moves smoothly and unhurriedly, mirroring a slow summer pace. Alternating perspectives between the boys gives readers deep insights into their feelings and actions. The secondary characters, the adults and Spencer's firecracker sister, Lolly, are also fully limned, complex individuals. Henkes creates compelling, child-centric images, excellent dialogue, and a believable resolution, with humor and just the right amount of tension to make this a significant and highly readable book. A "must-have" for every library that serves young people.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

Gr 5–7—Given the recent proliferation of fine novels incorporating characters and themes from Greek mythology, including Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series (Hyperion/Miramax), Anne Ursu's "Cronus Chronicles" (S & S), and Jane Yolen and Robert J. Harris's "Young Heroes" books (HarperCollins), to name a few, there is little need to add this title to most collections. Hennesy's depiction of Pandora owes more to the influence of the "Gossip Girls" than to standard conceptions of the pantheon. It may be reasonable to portray Pandy as a spoiled brat. Other plot points—that a teenager takes the infamous box of troubles to school to fulfill a show-and-tell assignment—are harder to swallow. Altogether inessential.—Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Gr 4–8—This is an interesting novelization of Hans Christian Andersen's "The Red Shoes." Thirteen-year-old Daphne dreams of two things—being adopted and becoming a ballerina. When a mysterious package arrives for her at the Orphanage of St. Jude, it contains a book on ballet technique with a handwritten riddle and a pair of scarlet stockings. A short while later, she is adopted, and she discovers that the stockings transform both her personality and her talent. As her success increases, so do her selfishness and conceit. She neglects her new family and focuses only on her ambition. The prima ballerina of the Ballet Splendide de Paris plots to destroy this young upstart and almost succeeds. After a terrible accident, the stockings are destroyed, and Daphne becomes a better person and a great dancer through hard work and dedication rather than magic. The 1920s London and Paris settings are believable, and Daphne's transformation from an insecure and lonely child into a self-absorbed dancer is well done.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 6–8—This book has all the tendencies and trappings of a first novel. Danny Parsons is a seventh-grade dreamer who is always imagining a different, more adventurous life than the one he's living. With the help of his sister, Bridget, he discovers that he has access to and can manipulate the quantum world. As the situation grows increasingly chaotic, he has to make a choice between having the father he's always wanted—and losing Bridget in the process—or saving his sister and coming to terms with the father he has. He learns that difficult decisions need to be made to move forward and that every choice has consequences and new possibilities. This story could have appeal for readers who feel powerless to alter the course of their own lives. However, it tries to be too many things all at once and, in the process, does not do any one thing very well. Science fiction fans will most likely wish for more science (and the science that is there is fuzzy), and readers who prefer character-driven stories will be disappointed in the lack of information about these complex figures. There isn't enough action to make this a strong plot-driven novel, and the author throws in some Eastern mysticism for good measure ("Be the water"). Not an essential purchase.—Laura Lutz, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 4–8—Hapless and hilarious Greg Heffley returns with another diary full of the minor irritations, major disasters, and occasional triumphs of a wimpy boy's middle school life. Kinney combines hand-written text with comical cartoons to present a character who is self-centered, sneaky, and dishonest, but also occasionally insightful and always very funny. Older brother Rodrick is his primary nemesis this time, partly because he threatens to spill Greg's embarrassing secret to the whole world. A nerdy best friend, a little brother who gets away with everything, and a bunch of clueless adults add significantly to Greg's problems. Readers, of course, will note that most of the narrator's troubles are self-inflicted, as when he wraps himself in toilet paper to avoid hypothermia in the boys' bathroom, does a disastrous job of pet-sitting, or decides to "wing it" for his school report on "The Amazing Moose." He's a character that readers can laugh at and empathize with at the same time. The line drawings that appear on every page play a large part in bringing Greg's world to life, providing humorous characterizations and details not mentioned in words. They also extend the appeal of the book to readers who are still a few years away from middle school themselves. Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Abrams, 2007) has been wildly popular, and this sequel should be an equally big hit with reluctant readers, especially boys, and anyone looking for a funny book.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 7–10—Gert, 15, has a totally original voice, hilarious but so sarcastic and negative that she's sometimes unlikable in the first part of this book. She changes over the course of the novel to someone more balanced, but one has to wonder if readers will stick with her while she gets her act together. She has a gay best friend, Adam, who goes with Tim. Gert has an unrequited crush on Tim's twin, struggles when Adam's relationship overshadows their friendship, and snipes about teachers, cliques, eyebrow plucking, and life in general. Her first-person narrative alternates with her ramblings in script, which will be difficult for reluctant readers to tackle. At first, these cursive sections are random rants but later make more sense in context. "Sorry: tangent" is dropped in every so often to indicate that Gert has gone off the point; the device is distracting and unnecessary. When her health teacher introduces a frank and educational exploration of female genitals, Gert feels better about herself and "her sexual being," and, in turn, everyone else. She finds new friends and a boyfriend, and her self-esteem is no longer dependent on Adam. Gert's self-centeredness limits her impact, and Adam and her boyfriend aren't fully fleshed out. Nobody but Gert, with her opinions, passions, and quirky insights, really matters. And that is problematic enough to make this unique but flawed book an additional purchase.—Tina Zubak, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 8 Up—Returning home to Hadley-by-Hudson after surviving his treacherous, six-month-long quest to save the Earth's oceans in Firestorm (Farrar, 2006), Jack Danielson is anxious to make sure that his girlfriend is all right. He is horrified to find that P.J. is missing and that he is considered responsible not only for her disappearance, but also for the deaths of his parents, who perished trying to save him from the Dark Army in the first book. This evil army from the future has now kidnapped P.J. and is gathering its forces to thwart Jack in his mission to save the planet from ecological disaster. To find P.J. and fulfill his mission, Jack must travel to the heart of the Amazonian rain forest; find the missing time-traveling wizard, Kidah; and join with him to defeat the Dark Lord from the future before he destroys the Earth. Like Jack's first adventure, Whirlwind is filled with thrilling, death-defying situations seldom found outside computer games. The fast-paced, gripping plot is an excellent vehicle for presenting a significant environmental message to an audience that might not hear it otherwise. The story stands on its own, but will be especially appreciated by those who experienced the cliff-hanger ending of Firestorm (Farrar, 2006). All readers will eagerly await the third book.—Ginny Gustin, Sonoma County Library System, Santa Rosa, CA

Gr 8 Up—The small coastal town of Neptune, NJ, is thrown for a loop when flamboyant and flashy Leonard, 14, arrives to live with the Hertle family. His cousin Phoebe, 15, resents his inclusion and watches with annoyance as he proceeds to join the high school drama crowd and give her mother's beauty parlor clients makeovers of body and mind. When Leonard goes missing, Phoebe begins to realize that she had not been able to see beyond his six-inch platform sneakers; his love for others and his desire to be loved in return touched the people of Neptune more deeply than anyone had expected. As she struggles to make sense of his disappearance, she leans on Travis, her wrong-side-of-the-tracks boyfriend who had at an earlier time accosted Leonard. This novel touches on myriad sensitive topics, including incest, shoplifting, wounded veterans, abandonment, sexual identity, and hate crimes, giving the book something of a crowded feel. Still, the frank tone of Phoebe's narration and the tragedy of Leonard's abbreviated life will give readers plenty to ponder.—Nora G. Murphy, Los Angeles Academy Middle School

Gr 7 Up—Frankie Landau-Banks has always been underestimated. After spending her childhood as a bright but sheltered ugly duckling, she begins sophomore year at her elite boarding school as a swan, catching the attention of senior Matthew Livingston. Frankie is ecstatic, particularly when she learns that he is the leader of the Loyal Order of the Basset Hounds, an all-male secret society. She spends most of her time with Matthew and his friends but soon realizes that no matter how smart or funny she may be, she will never truly be a part of the group, simply because she is a girl. This frustrates her to no end. In a remarkable turn of events, Frankie takes control and begins to direct the Bassets, through email, in a series of elaborate school pranks, revitalizing the Order and the student body as well. These ingenious pranks embody the vigor of Frankie's personality, making social commentary on everything from the school's lack of female leadership to its disgusting cafeteria salad bar. Lockhart has created a layered and engrossing story that is as smart and quick as Frankie, combining the thrilling prospect of how she will get caught with her earnest attempts to understand what it means to be an outsider, an underdog, and in love. An empowered female hero like Frankie is a rare and refreshing find. She is the ultimate feminist role model for teens: a girl with guts and imagination who's brave enough to take on the "old boy's club."—Emily Anne Valente, New York Public Library

Gr 5–8—A dystopian novel, starring Little Fearless as a "nameless" girl in a work asylum. The inhabitants of Lott's world naively follow the propaganda of the supposedly democratically elected City Boss. His cohort, the Controller, runs the workhouse under the guise of it being a school for wayward girls. Cleverly manipulating her fellow inmates, Little Fearless risks her life thrice by attempting to pull the wool off the eyes of the City's residents. Carefully contrived to feel like a traditional fairy tale, both in its larger-than-life themes (e.g., selflessness in miserable circumstances) and in its pacing, the plot holds few surprises. Characters are simplistic, not as clever as they are set up to be, not very likable, and far too easily manipulated, as is the ultimate resolution. The very obviousness of the thematic content might recommend Fearless for classroom discussion, and the well-drawn dreariness and misery of the setting might draw in melodramatic romantics, but the book is strictly additional.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library

Gr 10 Up—McDaniel is known for her "crying and dying" novels, but this one is not her usual fare. Ms. "Lori-to-my-friends" Settles is about 30 years old and built like a centerfold. Her tight clothing and stiletto heels have made an impression on students and administration alike, but especially on Ryan Piccoli, a handsome, motherless freshman whose dad is a traveling salesman. When he and his history teacher start an affair, it spirals into more than perhaps either of them had bargained for. McDaniel asks readers to determine who is predator and who is prey. To most readers, the answer will seem obvious, but the troubling final chapter, in Ryan's voice, may leave not only an unpleasant taste, but also a nugget of doubt. The story is packed with illicit sex, underage drinking, and frank adult situations, and it comes right out of today's headlines. Ultimately, it is about a broken trust in what is meant to be a respectful relationship. McDaniel's fans are sure to find it thought-provoking.—Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta

Gr 6 Up—Cameron Storm, 15, lives in a white working-class neighborhood until her single mother, a manicurist, loses her job at a Brighton Beach nail salon, which forces a move to an all-minority project on the other side of Brooklyn. Then Cameron finds out that her absentee father is African American. The dialogue between Cameron and her girlfriends seems totally unrealistic, and her conversations with her mother are often just as wooden and cloying. The African Americans in Cameron's new building are folksy caricatures: the wizened sassy widow, the gaggle of tough but happy project girlz. Her African-American "multicultures" teacher and biracial guidance counselor ferry her through her struggles as if on cue. More than half of this slow, slim novel takes place before Cameron and her mother move to the projects, and the time spent in the build-up is wasted constructing characters that never achieve depth. The action picks up only marginally after Cameron's discovery, as the narrative centers on pat and pretty pedestrian discussions of racial identity. The Brooklyn setting is well drawn, especially the contrasts between white and black neighborhoods. McDonald's promising and provocative subject is lost in perfunctory social examination.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—This clever novel opens with Janie Hannagan, 17, inside the star quarterback's dream—she knows it's his dream because he's the only one naked on the football field. Janie dreams along with her fellow students when they fall asleep near her—on the bus, in study hall, in boring classes, etc. She begins to dream with loner Cabel Sturmheller and discovers both his horrific childhood abuse and longstanding feelings for her. The third-person omniscient narration sets a perfect mood; readers are, like Janie, observers. Janie and Cabel's friendship is sweetly drawn, their conversations are smooth, and their romantic tension builds naturally. The language is realistically gritty. Unfortunately, McMann uses a plot twist right out of Law and Order to doom their relationship, and an even cheaper twist to reconcile them. Still, an economy of language, swift character development, and mysterious circumstances drive the narrative to a fast and mostly satisfying conclusion. McMann also gives useful attention to the science of dreaming. This book is ideal for reluctant readers, especially girls.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 4–7—Things are getting more difficult for Livy Two Weems's family in the last book in the series. The landlord is demanding the back rent, and Daddy still hasn't regained all of his memory since a car accident. Grandma Horace insists that they leave their beloved valley and move in with her, but their mama, Jessie, refuses to go back to her mother's home. The only bright spot for the children is secretly reading the diary she wrote when she was Livy Two's age. The 12-year-old has decided to solve the family's problems by slipping off to Nashville and selling her songs. She is caught by her sister Jitters, 10, who demands to go, too. Meeting with bitter disappointment there, the girls return home to their frantic family and to the jeers and laughter of the town. As the family's plight worsens, the sisters hatch another moneymaking scheme—the opening of a music hall, Jessie's Smoky Mountain Music Notes. The plot is predictable, but the book is an interesting character study of Livy Two's brand of love, her mother's courage in protecting her family, and feisty Jitters. The outcome of the girls' final plan is unrealistic given their ages, but it makes for a happy ending. Fans of the series will enjoy this one, too.—Nancy P. Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC

Gr 9 Up—Eighth-grader Cassie Sullivan is big for her age, physically and intellectually. She has strong opinions: She hates WWJD bracelets and NCLB-driven standardized tests. She rejects cell phones, CDs, and MP3s, but adores her vinyl record collection. She also loves visiting her family's place in the Colorado mountains, gazing up at the stars and thinking about infinity. She believes that the world is almost certainly more than 6000 years old; that things with faces probably shouldn't be eaten; and that war, despite any trumpeted reasoning, is still just a sad human failing. At the beginning of the school year she defends evolution and finds herself, as she starts the first of the 11 journals that comprise this diary novel, ostracized from—and bullied by—most of her classmates, who begin calling her Cassie the Antichrist. Her refusal to sing "America the Beautiful" in choir earns her the name Osama O'Sullivan. With some help from her brother's college-age girlfriend and a compassionate GT teacher, Cassie considers a scheme to skip through her current hell and jump directly to high school, all the time wondering "is it worth it? Is anything worth it?" Librarians will want to slip this excellent and therapeutic selection to precocious early teens facing similar alienation, depression, and bullying issues. Just be aware that there is frank language and references to drug and alcohol use.—Jeffrey Hastings, Highlander Way Middle School, Howell, MI

Gr 9–11—Charlotte, Janie, Melissa, and Petra are not friends, so when the new director of Special Study at their hoity-toity Los Angeles private school pairs them up on a group project, it is no surprise that high drama ensues. The girls are supposed to work on developing a fashion label. They bring a variety of talents and ideas to the table—Charlotte is an accomplished seamstress, Janie can bring the amazing creations she imagines to life on paper, Melissa is interested in marketing, and Petra wants to design environmentally friendly clothes—so the main challenge is combining these ideas into something viable. Can they agree to disagree or will their differences tear them apart? This book has all of the same elements that made Lisi Harrison's "The Clique," Zoey Dean's "The A-List," and Cecily von Ziegesar's "Gossip Girl" series (all Little, Brown) so popular, and they have the added attraction of being about fashion, which will attract a broader audience. The back of the book contains DIY instructions for making some of the fashions contained within.—Robyn Zaneski, New York Public Library

Gr 5–7—Egypt is the setting for the final volume of this epic fantasy: an Egypt unpeopled except for the powerful and violent sphinxes and the main characters, and bound in devastating snow and ice. The story picks up shortly after Merle and Junipa escape from Hell on the back of Vermithrax, the obsidian lion, in The Stone Light (S & S, 2006). With few explanations for latecomers, Meyer's trilogy should be seen as a single work divided into three physical volumes, rather than three stand-alone novels. Merle, Junipa, and Serafin are reunited in the nonstop action that courses through the book, and go on to work with Lalapeya, the Flowing Queen, and Vermithrax to save the world from the devastating evil that threatens it. Meyer explains the mysteries at the heart of the series, including the nature of the water mirror and Merle's heritage, the true nature of both the sphinx Lalapeya and the Flowing Queen, and the truth about the threat posed by Egypt to the world. The relationship between Merle and Serafin also reaches a resolution, although so much attention is paid to the action that the emotional power of Merle's crucial choice at the end is muted. Buy where the first two titles have been popular.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

Gr 5–8—When eighth-grader Sara Thurman finally gets her first period, her mother sends her "period flowers" on Valentine's Day. Despite Sara's efforts to keep it quiet, the entire student body soon knows that she's "entered womanhood" and the jokes are endless. But who spilled her secret? Was it her friend Arlene, the only person Sara told about the flowers' origins, or Kirstie, the new girl who is suddenly smothering Sara with attention? This incident sets off a string of mishaps that includes Sara wearing an outfit identical to her teacher's and exploding The Ball, a cherished winning basketball from the Bandits' only state championship in 1989. Also, Sara is adjusting to her parents' separation, her friendship with Arlene is in a shambles, and she has a crush on a boy who seems way out of her league. Despite everything, Sara keeps her cool and carries on with her plan to become popular. When it's yearbook time, she isn't voted Class Favorite as she'd hoped, but she does earn the Courage award for her ability to overcome circumstances that would cause most teenagers to enter the Witness Protection Program. This fun, fast-paced book is full of realistic dialogue and laugh-out-loud passages. Sara's sticky situations will make readers cringe while simultaneously breathing a sigh of relief that these things aren't happening to them.—Robyn Zaneski, New York Public Library

Gr 4–6—In this sequel to Wind Tamer (Bloomsbury, 2006), 10-year-old Archie Stringweed is now an International Curse Exterminator (I.C.E.) and his services are needed when mysterious things start happening on the coast and in his hometown, Westervoe, Scotland. While fishing with his best mates, George and Sid, Archie hears an army marching underwater. He leans closer and sees two hypnotic eyes. Then everything goes black. Ruby, a new girl at school, claims to have seen a mermaid and that her father was killed by a cursed lion. Professor Himes at I.C.E. headquarters explains that defeating Huigor (the curse from the first book) left a black hole that is reactivating old curses and sending them toward Westervoe on a collision course. Only Archie, with the help of his curse-breaking artifacts, can stop them. The fantasy elements are original and fun, the British words and phrases will appeal to Harry Potter fans, and the final battle between the reactivated curses and Archie is exciting. His friends have more space and personality in this sequel, and Ruby adds a much-needed female character. The short chapters and quick plot pace will appeal to reluctant readers, particularly boys. The book's ending does not resolve every plotline; expect more sequels.—Samantha Larsen, West Jordan Public Library, UT

Gr 8–10—As one of only a handful of Asian-American students at her posh Los Angeles high school, 16-year-old Joyce Park has never felt as though she fits in. In the throes of an intense crush on John Ford Kang, a gorgeous and aloof classmate, she is consumed with worry about the way she looks, especially in comparison to her beautiful older sister, a social and academic superstar who seems to get everything she wants. Then her cosmetic surgery-addicted aunt comes into a lottery windfall and offers Joyce a gift: surgery to add a fold to her eyelids, transforming her Korean features into something more Western and, it is suggested, more beautiful. At first Joyce is appalled at the idea, but as she begins to obsess about the eyes of the Asian women around her, she becomes increasingly convinced that "the fold" is all that lies between her imperfect appearance and the ideal of feminine beauty. But will the surgery require her to give up her sense of herself in the process? Na explores issues of beauty and ethnic identity with sensitivity and wit. Her protagonist is carefully and realistically drawn; even as the novel is guided by a larger message about self-esteem, Joyce's struggles and choices never seem predetermined for didactic purposes. This story will speak to both Asian-American teens and other adolescents dealing with issues related to the way that they look, the way they wish to be perceived, and the often painful distance between the two.—Meredith Robbins, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School, New York City

Gr 5–8—Twelve-year-old Max's life changes dramatically after a vision of a tapestry scene reveals itself to him at the Art Institute of Chicago. Following a terrifying encounter with a strange woman and a series of unusual tests, he finds himself enrolled at Rowan Academy, a semisecret and definitely Hogwarts-like school for children with abilities and experiences similar to his own. It is at Rowan that Max learns about the ancient struggle between those who watch over and nurture the world and those who want to control it. As an Apprentice, First Year, Max begins to hone his mysterious magical skills and shows a particular talent for amplifying his own physical capabilities, such as running and jumping. As the school year progresses, Max must face his destiny as a key player in the struggle against evil Astaroth. Overall, this is a solid and worthwhile beginning to a new fantasy series. The book lacks fully realized secondary characters and relationships, but as this is the first in the series, there is opportunity for development. And, of course, Astaroth's reemergence promises plenty of future conflict. Parallels to J. K. Rowling's work are inescapable, but Neff's tale certainly has potential and should help ease the suffering once Harry Potter withdrawal sets in. For general purchase, particularly where fantasy is popular.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL

Gr 10 Up—Eighteen-year-old Frances Robinson, born Francine Jelks, has been living in Alabama with her loving, adopted family for years, but there are still nights when she wakes up in a cold sweat, reminded that she once lived in a place called Fireless with her mother, Afton, and three younger sisters. One day a lawyer arrives, informing her that Afton has been released into a halfway house and giving her a letter from her mother; it ends, "We need to finish." The last time Frances saw Afton was when the woman tried to suffocate her with a pillow after murdering her siblings in the same fashion. With the help of her friend Ann Mirette, Frances plans a road trip with her boyfriend, "Nix," to find her birth mother. As scared as she is of seeing this frightening figure from the past, she wants to know if her mother was all bad. Can there be any good left in a person who was capable of something so evil? Nelson's novel is a thoughtful, moody, and entirely thrilling book. Flashbacks of Frances's youth in Fireless establish a creepy atmosphere showing Afton's descent into darkness. Nelson lightens the mood with a supporting cast of sympathetic and quirky characters, including recent New Orleans transplant Nix. Breathe My Name doesn't shy away from exploring the gray areas: forgiveness and family. With major twists and turns in the last 50 pages, this book will keep readers riveted until the very end.—Jennifer Barnes, Homewood Library, IL

Gr 5–7—Riding his bike through the Welsh countryside, 13-year-old Matt Lancaster is hit by a Land Rover—or is he? He is unhurt, his bike is unmarked, and there is no sight or sound of the vehicle. Moreover, the spot where it happens was the site of a similar accident years before, in which 13-year-old Martin Lloyd was killed. New to the town of Hay-on-Wye, where his parents have opened a bookstore, Matt finds himself reluctantly spending time with Tig and Robbo, school bullies who have targeted an old man for sinister mischief, convincing Matt that Wil was Martin's murderer. When Wil brings in a box of books to sell, he inadvertently includes a manuscript (reproduced in its entirety within the novel) which tells the story of another death—that of five-year-old Tommy Jones—lost in the hills many years before. Was Tommy Wil's son, or is Owen, to whom many of the books are inscribed? Gradually, and with the help of three new friends, Matt sorts everything out, but continues to have nightmares, feeling the presence of Martin Lloyd, and sensing that there is something that Martin wants him to do. Readers will empathize with Matt's conflict between needing to belong and doing the right thing, and will enjoy this engrossing mystery with a touch of the supernatural.—Marie Orlando, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY

Gr 7–11—Though they are best friends at their upscale private high school, shutter-bug Sam has always stood in the shadow of Salah, considered the most eligible teenager in Manhattan. Usually, Sam's more than happy to take Salah's cast-off "cuties" as sloppy seconds, but that changes when their class takes a field trip to Egypt, planned in conjunction with a swanky London girls' school, and Sam meets the outrageous British beauty, Octavia. What Octavia wants, Octavia gets, and she wants Salah. But all of her preening, posturing, and excessive behavior is really a distraction to hide a secret even her best friend, Rosie, doesn't know. Rosie enjoys Octavia's company, but is often exhausted by her theatrics. However, she never stood up to her best friend, until she realizes that she too wants Salah. As the teenagers explore the sites and history of Egypt and socialize aboard their river-cruise boat, the Nefertiti, everyone is expecting Salah to hook up with Octavia, but his heart lies elsewhere. This flirty, fun romcom, told from four distinctive points of view, reads like an old-time comedy of errors. O'Connell describes Egypt with such vitality and richness that it shines as a separate character. This novel is a trip worth taking.—Terri Clark, Smokey Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 5–8—Aggie Duncan cannot muster the energy to fix up the Sleepy Time Motel since her husband died, and with no visitors stopping by on North Carolina's Smoky Mountains back roads, she reluctantly concludes that it's time to sell. Within days of placing an ad, she has an offer from Clyde Dover, who is eager to make a new life for himself and his daughter, Willow, after his wife's desertion. They are soon joined by Loretta and her parents, who are on a journey to learn more about Loretta's birth mother, and Kirby and his mother, whose car broke down en route to a last-ditch reform school. The story is told from the alternating perspectives of Aggie, Willow, Loretta, and Kirby as the four family units get to know one another and form unlikely friendships. While Clyde is eager to improve the motel, Willow shows him the wisdom of keeping some of Aggie's traditions. Angry Kirby, who has spent a lifetime living up to his label as a troublemaker, is initially irritated by Loretta's bubbling optimism, but he comes to appreciate the value of her trust. And Aggie learns that even the emptiness of her husband's absence cannot seal her heart from a girl who misses her mother. O'Connor's knack for well-developed characters and feisty protagonists is evident, as is her signature Southern charm. While the format increases the distance between readers and characters, the author's fans will find much to enjoy in this examination of family in the 21st century.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 4–6—In 1951, Maggie, nine, and her older brother, Joey-Mick, are dedicated baseball fans though their beloved Brooklyn Dodgers always disappoint them at season's end. Maggie enjoys listening to the games with the firefighters in her neighborhood station; her dad worked there before an injury forced him to accept a desk job. When a new firefighter, Jim, joins the crew, he teaches Maggie how to keep score and she comes to share his admiration for Giants' great Willie Mays. Then Jim is drafted and sent to Korea. They writer to one another until his letters abruptly stop. Maggie, frustrated and worried, tries to understand the conflict by researching it at her local library and even drawing her own maps tracing the war's progress on the Korean peninsula. Eventually, she learns that Jim suffered traumatic shock after a horrific battle and has been sent home with a medical discharge. Park paints a vividly detailed account of life in 1950s Brooklyn. Maggie's perspective is authentically childlike and engaging, and her relations with her family and friends ring true. Jim's tragic experience raises difficult, troubling questions for Maggie, but her grief eventually brings her to the conclusion that "hope is what gets everything started." Baseball fans will savor her first visit to Ebbets Fields, but this finely crafted novel should resonate with a wide audience of readers..—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 7–10—Chelsea, 17, is a popular cheerleader. Her sister, Adrian, 15, is a Goth who resents the attention her sibling gets. Adrian's boyfriend is the rock star of their high school, and he's taken on his girlfriend's grudge. Unfortunately for Chelsea, his entire repertoire consists of belittling her and her cheerleading compadres with songs he writes such as "Dangerously Blonde." After her routine at the all-school pep assembly is sabotaged by such a performance, Chelsea attempts to get even by outshining him in the national High School Idol show to be televised from their town. The plot grows more complicated as Chelsea finds herself smitten with a mysterious college student. Not high literature, but a fun addition to chick-lit collections.—Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

Gr 5–8—This novel explores the life of one of history's most intriguing figures, Queen Elizabeth I of England. Told in her voice, the story follows her from when she was nine until the death of her half sister, Queen Mary, and her ascension to the throne. Raised in a time marked by political intrigue and power struggles, Elizabeth is taught to trust no one and lives in a constant state of instability, knowing that her existence is at the whim of whomever is in power. The author credits Elizabeth's survival to her intelligence and supportive advisers and effectively represents her burgeoning understanding of how to play the games necessary to stay alive. Her emotional life is believably depicted as well. She has a lifelong affection for Robin Dudley and, though she knows it's inappropriate, she is easily flattered by the attention of Sir Thomas Seymour. Rinaldi's writing style is accessible, and the integration of background material is smooth. The author characterizes Elizabeth as a more vulnerable person than does Carolyn Meyer in Beware, Princess Elizabeth (Harcourt, 2001), but both books are enjoyable. For a more complete picture of Tudor history, direct readers to Rinaldi's Nine Days a Queen (HarperCollins, 2005), about Lady Jane Grey, and Meyer's Mary, Bloody Mary (Harcourt, 1999).—Cheri Dobbs, Detroit Country Day Middle School, Beverly Hills, MI

Gr 9 Up—Xenos, or X, never feels like he quite fits in. He's of mixed race in an almost all-white high school, is a golf prodigy who's not sure his skills are up to par, and is a serious kid who covers his uncertainty with swagger and bravado. He feels trapped in the rickety trailer he shares with his unreliable ex-hippie mother and toddler brother, and equally trapped in his relationship with Cat, his on-again-off-again girlfriend. Cat is no less confused. Convinced that she'll never live up to the standard set by her overachieving twin sister, she acts out ferociously with cutting words, body piercings, and too much alcohol, throwing herself at boys and men to hide her insecurity. Their classmate Ruby is a shy girl whose increasing rage at her celebrity-shrink father and his girlfriends makes her fear that she's going crazy. X's growing alienation from Cat (who discovers that she is pregnant) and his fierce crush on Ruby are complicated by an unexpected discovery: he can fly. Alternating chapters narrated by X, Cat, and Ruby chronicle the fascination—and sometimes repulsion—that each character has for the others, as their interconnecting paths head toward an explosive conclusion. The first in the "XYZ" trilogy, Rivers's dark, meandering novel offers more nuanced characterization and subtle action than typical science fiction. This intriguing juxtaposition of the teen relationship drama and the contemporary fantasy novel should please fans of both genres.—Meredith Robbins, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School, New York City

Gr 4–7—At the opening of this art mystery reminiscent of Blue Balliett's Chasing Vermeer (Scholastic, 2004), teen art enthusiasts Kari and Lucas encounter a foul-tempered man painting secretively at an exhibit of Rembrandt's famous Lucretia at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. The strange episode proves significant when the best friends embark on a trip to London with Kari's mother and bump into the same unsociable painter in the Rembrandt room of the National Gallery. They realize the man is more than what he seems and make it their mission to discover what he is painting with such intense secrecy. Disguise and hilarity ensue, but before they know it, Kari and Lucas find themselves in real danger. The situation spirals when a new Lucretia painting surfaces unexpectedly, and the two sleuths must piece together the clues before the painter catches up with them—or before Kari's mom discovers that they have been spending their sightseeing time spying on a criminal. Kari narrates in a believable, contemporary voice, straightforward and humorous, reflecting the foibles and fears of an average 14-year-old. The story is carried by its continuous action and likable characters, not by the mystery, which remains a bit flat, without many twists. Nevertheless, the clarity of the plot, as well as the relative lack of violence, makes this a worthwhile choice for readers newly acquiring a taste for the mystery genre.—Emma Runyan, The Winsor School, Boston, MA

Gr 7–10—Fifteen-year-old Ava had never been to a funeral until her boyfriend died. She is quickly consumed by sorrow and overwhelmed with the guilt that she, the unadventurous one, dared Jackson to dive off the rock in the first place. Unsure how she can possibly go on without him, she soon discovers that his spirit hasn't gotten very far. When she begins to feel his presence in various manifestations around her house, she holes up and spends all her time with "Jackson," unwilling to let him go. Ultimately, she realizes she will never live a normal life if she doesn't move on, but must figure out how to let him know. Told in Ava's voice, this novel-in-verse captures the all-consuming nature of intense teen love. Beyond Ava, though, the characters are only shallowly realized and a somewhat hackneyed plotline-a ghost can't leave unfinished business-is presented without any new spice. Still, this is a quick and agreeable, if not earth-shattering, read.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 4–6—In America in 1920, "proper young ladies" are expected to behave in a certain way. But when 11-year-old Violet Mayhew discovers that her parents have been keeping her disowned older sister Chloe's letters from her, she abandons propriety and runs away to find her in New York City. There she meets Myrtle, a "colored" girl who is happy to leave her own training as a maid and join Violet in finding her sibling, who has left the city. Their travels take them first to Washington, DC, and then to Tennessee, where Chloe works on the Susan B. Anthony Amendment. Here Violet and Myrtle join the fight for women's suffrage. The girls confront heavy issues such as racism and sexism, but the narrative is leavened with humor. The story is packed with period details—Jim Crow laws, Bolsheviks, Palmer agents, Prohibition, shell shock, autocamping, just to name a few—but Schwabach's attention to character and plotting ensures that it never bogs down. Readers will cheer along with the "Suffs" as the victory in Tennessee grants women the vote. The book concludes with historical notes and a voting time line that includes black-and-white photos. Illuminating a time period rarely featured in children's literature, this is a fresh choice for historical fiction fans.—Laurie Slagenwhite, Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MI

Gr 5–8—Newly orphaned Brigitte Dubrinsky leaves Warsaw to help her aunt and uncle in their Parisian café. From the first, the 14-year-old detests the drudgery of food preparation and the nastiness of their Russian assistant Henri as much as she adores the performers at the local Cirque Medrano. Picasso, a frequent café visitor, finds them equally fascinating, and Brigitte's story frames Picasso's Family of Saltimbanques. Brigitte acquires a true taste for Montmartre's diversity when she discovers that Henri might be a revolutionary attempting to sway Picasso to his cause. At heart, Brigitte's story is one of politics, culture, and art. While the dialogue and characterization are only serviceable, those who enjoy fiction built up with history and biography will be interested in this window into Picasso's famous painting. Although somewhat revisionist and undoubtedly sanitized, the story evokes the riotous, layered culture of Montmartre in the early 20th century. The details of Russian intelligence agents in Paris add suspense, as does a page-turning escape scene on the rooftop of the Russian embassy. While this book has a niche audience, those readers will be satisfied with this novel of a rarely depicted era in European history.—Caitlin Augusta, The Darien Library, CT

Gr 8 Up—Mimi Wallingford's famous theater family includes a renowned Shakespearean actress. The teen herself has performed since the age of three, and is constantly reminded by her mother that the family's reputation (and the financial stability of the Wallingford Theater) rests upon her shoulders. Mimi, however, would rather major in pre-med at UCLA than study acting. When she is cast as Juliet opposite teen-idol Troy's Romeo, the two are transported to medieval Verona via a magical Shakespeare charm where they meet the real Juliet, an unpretentious, freckle-faced girl of 13. As Mimi begins to see the parallels between the situation with her mother and Juliet's being pressured by Lady Capulet to marry Paris and save the family's fortunes, she resolves to help Juliet escape. Troy and Mimi get involved in a series of misadventures as she attempts to give Romeo and Juliet a happy ending and return to Manhattan. The book's premise has considerable potential, but it is not entirely realized in the uneasy mix of chick-lit humor and Shakespeare's story. Mimi's present-day situation is not believable, and her controlling mother is too exaggerated a character. However, the humor and the attractive cover might win this title some fans, so this would be worth purchasing where Shakespearean adaptations such as Tui T. Sutherland's This Must Be Love (HarperCollins, 2004) have been popular.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 9 Up—Sam, 15, is not looking forward to winter break. She is stuck with her dad, brother, and new stepmom at a Vermont inn for a ski vacation but she doesn't ski. She would rather be home with her latest crush, who doesn't show the slightest interest in her, and her best friend, Phoebe. Instead she has to watch her dad and the perfectly perky Kathy together. She spends the first miserable day in the lodge by the fire. Then she meets a hot ski instructor, Drew, and decides to give the sport a chance. After a day on the slopes and a night of drinking in the hot tub, Drew turns his attention to Sam and she melts. But his intentions are not so pure, and she refuses to lose her virginity yet, especially to a ski instructor who only reads Sports Illustrated. She realizes that there might be more to Eric, kind son of the inn owner whom she catches sketching her. Sam and her friends are typical teen novel characters, and the plot moves along like a made-for-TV drama. Average fare for girls who want a light read to curl up with on a cold winter night.—Julianna M. Helt, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 10 Up—Morgan, Ondine, and Nix are unaware of the special link they share. Morgan and Ondine—both beautiful, intelligent, and artistically inclined—know they are different from those around them, but don't know why. Nix drifts from place to place and uses "dust" to escape seeing the rings of light forming around people about to die. At an underground concert, the three discover that they are changelings. For Morgan, this knowledge provides answers to her questions about her differences and an exultation of power, while Nix finds answers about his visions and Ondine rejects the information. In the end, the teens form a ring, using their abilities to save a human "pet," Neve, from the clutches of a "cutter" (a fairy bent on destruction) with the outcome leaving the door wide open for a sequel. Except for Nix and Moth, the fairy "teacher" of the three new fairies, the characters are unremarkable, with the majority being vague stereotypes—Bleek, the cutter, is the fairy gone bad; Neve, the helpless girlfriend; K.A., Morgan's brother, the overachiever. For the first half of the book Morgan's and Ondine's characters could be interchangeable. The fact that Ondine is black comes up late in the book and seems irrelevant until the question of her fairy heritage arises. That said, Smith's story is edgy and compelling. Readers will want to find out about Nix's visions and whether or not Morgan will join Bleek or stick with her ring. Language, drug use, and implied sexual acts make Betwixt most appropriate for older teens. Readers of Neil Gaiman's "Sandman" or Bill Willingham's "Fables" graphic-novel series (both DC Comics) will be the audience for this complex, but flawed, debut.—Lisa Prolman, Greenfield Public Library, MA

Gr 4–6—Audrey's father has a heart ailment, forcing her mother to work full-time at a job she doesn't like in order to support the family. To escape from her worries, Audrey writes stories, and so when a mysterious woman in a cave gives her an antique-looking bronze pen ("Use it wisely and to good purpose"), she immediately sets to work. After writing a passage about a girl who can speak with animals, she finds that she can suddenly understand her dog, Beowulf, and her pesky cockatiel, Sputnik. After a few more similar experiences with the pen, Audrey realizes that it must be magical. Once she figures out some of its rules and limitations, she is able to use it to very good purpose indeed. Readers looking for a full-fledged fantasy along the lines of Edward Eager's Half Magic (Harcourt, 1997) will be disappointed; the magical events are tantalizing but few, and although some hints are dropped, the mystery of the old woman remains unsolved. Audrey is an appealing kid and her thoughts and actions are interesting and believable, but in the end readers may feel that this fantasy does not deliver on its magical promise.—Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 8 Up—David Crandall feels useless. Though he comes from one of Maine's great families, he is convinced that he doesn't have what it takes to live up to its powerful longstanding reputation. His stern and demanding father is headmaster at The Arsenal, the prestigious academy the boy attends, and his life is a constant challenge. Between the fear that his father has murdered his mother, and the longing to earn top honors as the school's best target shooter, is a young man who struggles with feelings of inadequacy. With the arrival of Misty, a stunning new girl who is an even better shooter than he, he finds the strength to go beyond the surface of his beliefs to solve the dark mysteries surrounding his family. Their investigations into the murder put both of their lives in danger. Sorrells sets this modern story on a rocky spit in historic Maine and does a great job of capturing the feel of an elite military academy. As readers are taken through its austere halls and forbidden tunnels, the author unravels a fast-paced mystery that's sure to have wide appeal.—Caryl Soriano, New York Public Library

Gr 5–7—Frannie knows that she got into Allbright Academy only because the directors were desperate to recruit her brilliant younger sister, who refused to come without her. The prestigious boarding school generally admits only handpicked students, the "leaders of tomorrow," as the headmaster constantly reinforces. Although the campus is beautiful, with state-of-the-art facilities, a challenging program, and excellent food—including the school's traditional brownies—Frannie finds the place unnervingly perfect. Outside influences and contact are discouraged and there is a disturbing emphasis on group conformity. The kids are unfailingly polite, neat, and focused, and, most of all, compliant. When Frannie realizes that she is slipping into the Allbright "persona" herself, she begins to suspect that there is something sinister going on. She discovers that the brownies contain a behavior-modification drug, calculated to make the students more "receptive" to indoctrination. For decades, the school has been programming them for important positions in business, government, and the media. Not only are current students being "moderated," but key graduates are invited back periodically for a refresher course of drugs and direction. Can Frannie and her friends fight back and expose the school's plot to control the future of the country in time? This suspenseful story features an all-too-plausible conflict between authoritarian control and personal freedom. The action is brisk and exciting, with authentic and often insightful dialogue. There is also a strong underlying theme of individual courage and self-determination.—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Gr 4–6—"I had stars all over my reading notebooks and stars all over my report cards and nobody I could really call a friend." So says sixth-grader Jessie Lou, a gawky, insecure tomboy with a longtime crush on "deep down popular" classmate Conrad. His popularity wanes when he hurts his leg and has to wear a brace, and before long he's down to only two friends: Jessie and tagalong fourth-grader Quentin Duster. Narrated by Jessie, this contemporary story is set in West Taluka Falls, VA. The various elements include the arrival of a shopping mall (will the beloved local hardware store be knocked out by the new Big Box Home and Hardware?), Jessie's older sister's entry in a beauty contest, a Lewis and Clark assignment at school, an air show, tulip bulbs, an abandoned house where Jessie writes poetry, a granddaddy who does jigsaw puzzles of the presidents, and the eccentricities of Jessie's family and friends. If this seems like a lot going on, it is. Some of it is interesting, and Stone's writing is often rhythmic and colorful ("There's a fine line between a fourth grader and a baby and Quentin Duster just crossed that line"). But the protagonist's voice is at times stilted, and the rambling plot sometimes moves slowly. For a realistic novel about small-town life in the South, try Deborah Wiles's Each Little Bird That Sings (Harcourt, 2005).—Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL

Gr 8 Up—Chanda has reached some level of stability in her life since readers first met her in Chanda's Secrets (Annick, 2004). She takes care of her younger brother and sister and works as a teaching assistant to support her family. However, Chanda is pursued by nightmares. Friends and neighbors soon persuade her to take her siblings to the countryside to end the feud with their mother's family. The ravages of AIDS and poverty on a fictional, but realistic sub-Saharan African country are once again depicted with unflinching honesty, but it is the issue of child soldiers, a tragedy that affects more than 300,000 children around the world, that takes center stage. Stratton deftly handles the devastating effects war can have on young people. Horrific things happen to the characters, though Chanda's first-person narrative never gets unnecessarily graphic in the detail. The author strives for authenticity in the psyche of child soldiers and, through substantial research, captures a voice that is seldom heard. This story is both suspenseful and engaging. Chanda is steadfast in the face of adversity, and the book is as hopeful and spirited as its protagonist.—Ernie Bond, Salisbury University, MD

Gr 8 Up—Readers who followed Myrina, the teen leader of a tribe of women warriors in The Moon Riders (HarperCollins, 2006), will be delighted to see her returning after the Trojan War, following new challenges to keeping her people together. Once again Iphigenia, daughter of Agamemnon, needs to be rescued from peril, and Myrina, accompanied by two young Moon Riders, hurries to her rescue. But aiding Iphigenia this time comes with a cost: Myrina must leave the Moon Riders just as they are beginning to settle in new lands, and she must leave a man she is growing to love. The description of the countryside around the Black Sea and near the Bosphorus is lovely, and Tomlinson's attention to the details of horse gentling are delightful. Unfortunately, though the Moon Riders themselves are warrior priestesses full of mystic talents, the subdued tone of the book holds little urgency, and the events of the plot seem less dire than the characters imply. The attempt to make the dialogue feel archaic instead feels stilted and false. Because of the time that has passed since the first book, nearly all of the characters are adults, including Myrina, and the issues of tradition and keeping a whole people true to their history, as handled here, seem somewhat out of place in a young adult novel. Teens who enjoyed the first book will be happy to accompany the characters into their adult lives, but other readers may be better served by Adele Geras's Ithaka (Harcourt, 2006).—Alana Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT

Gr 5–8—Thirteen-year-old José loves soccer, his family, and his small village in Honduras. In 1998, when Hurricane Mitch hits, his beloved dog runs off and his father, older brother, and sister are away from home. José struggles to remain strong for his younger brother and sisters and helps his mother deal with water pouring in through their roof. As soon as the rain and wind subside, he ventures out to discover that nearly every house in their close-knit community has been completely destroyed by a mudslide. With 33 of the 56 residents dead and his father, brother, and sister missing, the teen finds himself acting as man of the house and a leader in his ravaged village. Narrated by José, the story is tragic and suspenseful without being sensationalized. The boy's inner struggle is well developed as he fights to do what must be done. Ultimately, he rises to the challenge, digging up dead bodies, finding food, and seeking medical help for his sick younger brother. José is an admirable character, and his story moves along at a quick pace that will sustain the attention of even reluctant readers.—Melinda Piehler, Sawgrass Elementary School, Sunrise, FL

Gr 9 Up-In kindergarten, Dylan "saw" her classmate Clarence dead in the woods, a victim of the Drifter, a man who was never caught. Since then, her visions have helped to find the bodies of eight murdered children. The return of the Drifter, exactly 11 years later, brings with it a return of fear and paranoia. Cate, a newcomer to Dylan's high school, brings with her change and disruption of longstanding relationships. Setting in the book varies greatly, and as new locales are added, readers are continuously jarred from the story trying to place them in context. This is forgivable as the supernatural and the ordinary are skillfully blended; Dylan must learn to understand and use her power while dealing with normal teenage troubles and a town in chaos. Vrettos nails the feelings of mass hysteria and group solidarity that can stem from shared trauma. Readers will commiserate with newcomer Cate, who feels the intense emotions her classmates share and is fascinated by their bond, wanting a part in their camaraderie but knowing that she will always be on the outside. This is not as strong as Vrettos's Skin (S & S, 2006), but it's a good general purchase.—Cara von Wrangel Kinsey, New York Public Library

Gr 5–9—If Alex Rider attended a school for bad guys, he'd end up at the Higher Institute of Villainous Education. In this follow-up to H.I.V.E.: Higher Institute of Villainous Education (S & S, 2007), the action doesn't stop for a moment. The story begins with Otto Malpense falling through the sky at a speed "beyond acceptable parameters." It then flashes back two weeks to an assassination attempt on the life of Dr. Nero, headmaster of H.I.V.E., and the adrenaline keeps pumping from there. The mysterious Cypher is plotting some move against Dr. Nero that begins with the murder of Otto's friend Wing and continues with the mobilization of an army of assassins that is both unbelievably fast and nearly indestructible. Everything is connected somehow to the Overlord Protocol, an AI that went rogue and was then destroyed soon after it was booted up 15 years earlier. Now Otto and his friends, along with Dr. Nero and his staff, must work to counter Cypher and his ninjas. Plot twists and startling revelations continue to the very end. The conclusion suggests that a sequel is inevitable. Just-over-the-horizon technology gives this thriller a bit of a science-fiction flavor, and it's sure to appeal to readers interested in novels that combine action and intrigue.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 6 Up—Passed among relatives and on to hog-farming foster parents, David misses his mother, who gave him up when she could no longer keep him safe. Bullied at his new high school for his bug eyes, pinched chin, and double hearing aids, David is a misfit who plays pranks on his tormentors by leading them to believe he jumped off a cliff when, in fact, he flew to the ground. His "avian dactylicism," concealed from everyone, allows him to use his "arm kites" to glide, albeit awkwardly, and be free from his problems. With an embarrassing appetite for potato beetles and an extreme sensitivity to sound, David yearns to know more about his freakish biology but realizes the cost of divulging his big secret. Normal, except for occasional seizures, his friend Cheetah values David for himself and provides much-needed affirmation when a gliding accident lands him in the hospital and he is unable to stop the world from learning his secret. The climactic ending has David, at the hands of benevolent doctors, realizing that he must make his own decisions about his future. The author's artful melding of fantastical elements in a realistic setting allows readers to suspend their disbelief about the teen's condition. Moreover, David and Cheetah are such empathetic characters and their relationship so palatable that the larger message about tolerance and self-acceptance will not be missed.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 7–10—When her three friends and their boyfriends end their relationships on the same day, Alexia has Sydney, Kelly, and Raven institute 25 break-up rules. Unfortunately, couples, plus their families, plus 25 rules equal too much to keep track of, and too much plot to develop fully, although the author gives it a good try. Sydney and Drew have gone together for two years, but now he seems to like Kelly, while Sydney pines and whines for him. And even though Kelly has dumped Will, a snob and a two-timer, she talks Drew into going back to his ex. Raven is not sure that she wants to continue with bad-boy Caleb. She's already had a make-out session with her band partner, Horace. Alexia likes Ben, Will's more easygoing brother, but hurts him by refusing to go public with their relationship. She's worried that her friends will be upset if she has a boyfriend and they don't. Although the rule to snap your wrist with a rubber band whenever you think of your ex seems a bit masochistic, the others have some positive effects. Raven discovers she loves to sing with Horace's rock band, and Sydney takes up photography. Kelly realizes that she can live without a boyfriend. Unfortunately, unlike the characters in Ann Brashares's "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" books (Delacorte), these four girls just aren't distinctive enough. Still, if you need another friendship or dating story, this one at least has a tiny smattering about developing a positive self-image.—Tina Zubak, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 3–6—Ten-year-old Archie Albright is living in East London in 1914 when his Uncle Colin sends him a blank scrapbook that quickly becomes a chronicle of Britain's entry into World War I and its effect on the lives of ordinary British citizens. Archie's simple cartoon drawings, words, photographs, newspaper clippings, and artifacts combine to tell the story. His teenaged sister is forbidden by their father to participate in antiwar protests, reflecting the community's rising patriotic sentiment, which extends to the point of shunning neighbors of German descent. In tabloid-style entries, Archie recounts shattering events such as the death of his Uncle Teddy in battle, the bombing of a friend's street, the return of his injured brother and a shell-shocked neighbor, the departure of his family to the safety of the countryside, and, finally, armistice. Humor and pathos combine as the scrapbook becomes a personal four-year chronicle of a boy's coming-of-age amid the horrors of war. Particularly poignant are Archie's longing for word from his soldier father and his secret, conflicted confession, on a dramatic spread, that the brave German fighter pilot the Red Baron, shot down, is his new hero. The large-format pages, jam-packed with tiny colored-pencil drawings with extensive captions, detailed sidebars, and pasted-in letters and postcards, flesh out the story and characters. While some British terms and customs will be unfamiliar to American readers, this imaginative presentation of historical fiction puts them in context and provides a highly visual experience that readers will pore over again and again.—Marie Orlando, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY

Gr 8–10—Set in historic St. Augustine, this pedestrian offering is basically a romance with a paranormal twist. A sequel to Homefree (Flux, 2006), it can be read on its own, as most references to the previous book are explained. The question is why anyone would want to. The three main characters are students at a school for the paranormally "gifted." Cal has the talent of psychokinesis, Easter can astral project, and Andrew can sense memories and emotions. Interspersed between clumsily narrated hot-and-heavy kissing scenes are Easter's and Cal's experiences with the spirit world. Sensitive, homosexual Andrew is removed early on, when he is overcome by the emotions of too many spirits. The ghost of a Spanish colonial girl, Placida, needs to tell her story to rest in peace. All of this is complicated by the intermittent interference of Easter's alcoholic, self-destructive mother. The story ends too neatly, but leaves plenty of room for a sequel. The writing is at times witty, but mostly ponderous. It reads like a teen soap opera, and not a very entertaining one. For a better supernatural romance, stick with Stephenie Meyers's Twilight (Little, Brown, 2005) or Libba Bray's A Great and Terrible Beauty (Delacorte, 2003).—Robin Henry, Griffin Middle School, Frisco, TX

Gr 9 Up—Smarting from her recent breakup and on the road to Austin, TX, with her hippie parents who have decided, yet again, to relocate, Sugar Magnolia—known as Maggie—crafts an extreme plan to avoid emotional pain the next time she has to move. Instead of endearing herself to the local popular clique—a technique she has perfected as part of her family's vagabond lifestyle—she decides to shun friendship and popularity in her new town. To that end, she comes to school in bizarre castoffs from her parents' thrift shop and forges a casual relationship with a group of school outcasts. When the success of a group project leads the teen to recognize her growing feelings of warmth toward those misfits, she has to decide whether or not to make a dramatic statement equivalent to social suicide. Ziegler's novel is fun but somewhat fantastic and concludes with a rather made-for-TV-movie school assembly scene. The book has heart, however, and cliché set pieces aside (Maggie's antifashion statements become school-wide trends and her success leads to the takedown of the queen bee cheerleader), it has a sweet story of friendship at its core. A low current of romance hums beneath the surface; that Ziegler's story does not conclude with a pat resolution of this tension adds an element of realism.—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 3–6—In the early 1840s, Bridgman was known throughout the world for her educational accomplishments despite her disabilities. Yet she would be so overshadowed by Helen Keller 50 years later that it is now impossible to mention her without drawing comparisons to Keller. In fact, Bridgman's education, undertaken by Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe of the New England Institution for the Education of the Blind, laid the foundation for Keller's accomplishments (Bridgman taught Annie Sullivan how to fingerspell), and for the education of Deaf-Blind children even today. The authors of this meticulously researched biography convey Bridgman's world of touch and sensation in terms children will understand: "The sun was heat on her face….Mountains were sloped, uneven paths to climb." Details such as the child's daily school schedule allow readers to connect her story with their own lives. Photos and illustrations of unfamiliar historical objects give context throughout, as does the authors' explanation of period medical studies such as phrenology. Only one detail causes concern: In a caption about the debate over whether to use sign language with children, the authors correctly note that it was "denounced as crude pantomime," yet fail to mention that American Sign Language has since been proven to contain all of the grammar and linguistic structures that spoken languages have. The afterword, "If Laura Were Alive Today," describes the medical and technological advances that affect Deaf-Blind individuals today by introducing Deaf-Blind coauthor Sally Hobart Alexander.—Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

Gr 9 Up-Informative, up-to-date and wide-ranging, these detailed overviews cover all aspects of their terrains, with chapters focusing on geography (providing overviews of individual hot and cold deserts, and oceans), atmosphere, geology, biology, history, exploration, and economic resources. These revisions (Deserts, 2000; Oceans, 1999) add recent ecological discoveries and coverage of phenomena such as the December 2004 tsunami (even, to a lesser extent, in Deserts) and global warming. Though inclusion of these topics is now standard, these books warrant purchasing as they go further. For example, Oceans explores little-known aspects of the tsunami such as its underwater effects, and, after providing an unusually specific and frightening list of the threats from climate change, outlines an equally pointed to-do list to combat the problem. Generally, the books' plain language neatly explains both complex phenomena (the Coriolis effect) and easier concepts (the Atlantic Ocean is expanding at the same rate as fingernail growth), but some of the scientific explanations in Deserts are challenging. Both books' color maps and diagrams are helpful and plentiful, but the few color photographs (though there are more in Oceans than in the previous edition) are of average quality at best. Pair Oceans with the Smithsonian Institution and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Hidden Depths (Collins, 2007), which has stunning photographs and more on coastal habitats; Deserts will complement basic earth science textbooks, which will have alternative explanations of the related scientific concepts, but lack the detail on deserts found here.—Henrietta Thornton-Verma, School Library Journal

Gr 4–6—Part of a six-volume series, these books offer a broad look at the history of music, divided by location and ethnic grouping. "Are bagpipes Scottish?" Europe answers this question and others as it traces the origins, diversity, folk traditions, and worldwide impact of various countries' music. Africa traces the continent's history to reveal Arabic, Moorish, and folk influences inherent in its music, while detailing instrumental and vocal production used in performance. Latin America investigates the convergence of Amerindian, African, and European peoples, comparing and contrasting use of instruments, rhythms, melody, and poetry. Australia emphasizes the historical, religious, and spiritual forces that helped create song and sound in the region. A spread in each volume lists the instrument families and vocal and dance styles particular to different parts of the world. Color maps, reproductions, and photographs showing current performing groups and instruments interspersed with highlighted boxes of additional information also create informal, useful resources. Places to visit, organizations, and recordings are included as needed in each volume.—Mary Elam, Forman Elementary School, Plano, TX

Gr 7 Up—Beginning with descriptions of African Americans' segregated and oppressive living conditions prior to the Civil Rights era, these books chronicle significant events in the struggle for equality. Freedom Summer discusses the collaborative strategies black and white Americans (especially privileged white college students) devised to dismantle the restrictive, often violent measures used in the South to prevent most African Americans from voting. Birmingham focuses on Alabama and the organized efforts by both black and white Americans to end local-government-sanctioned segregation and inequality. These titles are visually appealing with generous white space around the texts. Throughout, mostly black-and-white historical photos—some famous, others not—enhance the narratives. Also adding impact are numerous dramatic accounts by participants in the struggle. For the most part the books are easy to read; however, occasionally flashbacks to events leading up to a particular situation can be somewhat jarring. The authors do a good job of detailing some of the behind-the-scenes challenges, frustrations, and tensions within and between the various organizations and individuals involved in the campaign for civil rights. The difficulties, struggles, divisions, and uncertainties of the country in confronting and dealing with the reality of its own history and image are well highlighted, especially in Freedom Summer. Good general resources.—Mary N. Oluonye, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH

Gr 5–8—Aronson and Newquist add to the number of recent books targeted at boys with a pleasantly jumbled miscellanea of odd facts, sports stories, and forensic lore. There's a page of math tricks, information on how to create, or solve, a coded message, and maps that show the possible locations of hidden treasure. Plus! There are coded puzzles scattered across the bottoms of most pages, including a final "PUZZLE SUPREME." It's all appealing stuff. Unfortunately, the book falls flat when it comes to its design and illustrations. The latter are stiff, square, and about as much fun as a chart of road signs in a safety manual. One section is called "Fear Factor: America's Scariest Amusement Park Rides," but there are no pictures of any of them in action. Another is "Supercars," with descriptions of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and other dream vehicles—but only tiny outline drawings of them that will not satisfy boys interested in these kinds of cars. A book like this one cries out for cool photographs. Most boys will pick this book up, flip through it, and put it back down again.—Walter Minkel, New York Public Library

Gr 4–8—Each of these works provides a comprehensive, yet easy-to-read overview for its particular chemical element or series (as in Lanthanides). The explanations are succinct and clear, without being oversimplified, and the layout is attractive. Diagrams and photographs complement the text on every page. "Did You Know?" fact boxes and brief biographical sketches of key individuals are highlighted in boxed areas. In each book, the contents cover the element's history; where it is found; how it is extracted, purified, and used; and its chemical reactions. Lanthanides addresses the 15 metal elements in the series and includes a chapter devoted to lights, color, and lasers. Cadmium and Bromine include chapters about the element's relationship to human health. Zirconium details the substance's importance in gemology, as well as its use in dating certain rocks and materials. The explanations and visuals provided in each text for specific chemical reactions are especially helpful. Each book has a spread devoted to the periodic table and each element's particular role in it. These texts will provide thorough overviews for reports, and will be useful additions, especially for libraries that own other titles in the series. However, the visuals are stronger in the "Understanding the Elements of the Periodic Table" series (Rosen).—Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Gr 4–7—Beginning in 1929 with the events that led up to the publication of Little House in the Big Woods, this readable biography further amplifies Wilder's life and correlates it with her books. Berne credits Wilder's daughter Rose with assisting her mother in editing and submitting her novels for publication. She does not gloss over the difficult life faced by pioneers in the latter half of the 19th century and includes events that Wilder deemed too difficult for young readers, such as subsisting through winter on little more than turnips. The many sidebars expand the text and provide facts about events, dwellings, immigration, and laws such as the Homestead Act that directly impacted the Wilder family. Shorter than William T. Anderson's Laura Ingalls Wilder (HarperCollins, 1992), this volume is packed with relevant material, a time line, archival photographs, quotes from primary sources, and an official Web site.—Kathryn Kosiorek, formerly at Cuyahoga County Public Library, Brooklyn, OH

Gr 6–8—Slim introductions to perennially in-demand topics. Each book opens with a one-page description of the subject, capturing its drama and significance, followed by a chronological overview offering background information, a summary of events and developments, and analysis. Bodden is objective in her coverage, discussing both sides of the issues that have been raised by historians. All three volumes are attractive with clean layouts. Spreads have text on one page opposite a full-page archival photo or illustration (color or sepia) incorporating a quote, caption, or sidebar. All of the titles include a map and short bibliographies consisting of widely held young adult titles. Although these books are accurate, readable, and filled with high-quality illustrative material that will hold student interest, their coverage is best described as superficial, similar to overviews such as Richard Tames's Hiroshima: The Shadow of the Bomb (Heinemann Library, 2006). Researchers will be better served by Barbara Rogasky's Smoke and Ashes: The Story of the Holocaust (Holiday House, 1988) or James A. Warren's Cold War: The American Crusade Against World Communism, 1945–1991 (HarperCollins, 1996), which offer more comprehensive treatments of these complex subjects. The "Days of Change" titles will serve as additional introductions.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 5 Up—A clearly written, comprehensive guide. The chapters are organized by season, which helps to emphasize the particular issues that may arise in terms of a horse's health, nutrition, exercise, habitat, and other needs at different times of the year. There are a number of detailed charts that, for example, highlight horse-keeping costs, calculate feed rates, and suggest a time-management schedule. Possible ailments are explained in a straightforward and thorough manner. Excellent-quality, color photos on almost every page are a visual treat for horse lovers. Sidebars contain additional common-sense tips. This invaluable resource should be required reading for any potential or present horse owner.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 4–8—Students seeking weather-related project ideas will find this volume indispensable. The five main headings—air, sun and seasons, clouds and rain, wind, and weather watching and forecasting—are broken down into subtopics, each of which includes overview-style information and instructions for corresponding activities. Over 40 projects, most of which call for basic household items, illustrate weather phenomena on a small scale. Adult assistance is advisable to help children discriminate between scientific experiments (creating and using weather measurement tools, working with hot and cold air) and just-for-fun crafts (making a snow globe). Information on current environmental issues and full-page descriptions of careers in weather, such as tornado chaser and storm photographer, are sure to pique interest.—Amanda Moss, Maywood Elementary School, Monona, WI

Gr 3–6—This unique book looks at parasites that live both in and on animals, including humans. The text is clear and provides the basic facts with a definite gross-out appeal that students will enjoy. Common parasites like ticks, lice, and mosquitoes are included along with more unusual varieties, such as horsehair worms and tapeworms. Davies describes what parasites are, how they live, and how they reproduce. The cartoon illustrations, some in panels and some full page, and the dialogue balloons add a humorous touch. This title has enough information for reports but will also be devoured as general reading.—Christine Markley, Washington Elementary School, Barto, PA

Gr 9 Up—Due to the foresight of he priest, 12-year-old Rita was disguised as a boy and became Rick while the Japanese occupied Sumatra during World War II. Although she didn't understand the risk of being a girl, the plan was to shield her from being conscripted as a "comfort woman" to serve enemy soldiers. After the takeover, her Dutch-Indonesian family became prisoners of war. This extraordinary memoir provides a firsthand look at Rick's life as a privileged prisoner as well as a child growing up in a time of war. Before being sent to a POW camp, Rick took a job to help support her family and learned Japanese. This made her an invaluable asset to prison wardens, who used her language skills to help run the camps. In this role, Rick experienced exceptional circumstances that challenged her to cope with adult issues. She witnessed intimate scenes and was cornered by a soldier who explained that boys can have sexual relations, too. While she maintained a quality of innocence, these incidents and her descriptions of squalid conditions in the camps beg for a mature audience. Still, Rita/Rick is engaging, with an authentic voice that gives substance to the facts.—Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

Gr 5–7—For critters transformed into rock-hard fossils by pressure and time, dinosaurs remain remarkably fluid in the light of new discoveries and revised theories. Dixon has taken the very popular first edition of Amazing Dinosaurs (Boyds Mills, 2000) and subjected the text to rigorous updating, and worked with the artists to incorporate new discoveries into their eye-catching illustrations. The outcome is this revised edition, with updates on dates, physical depictions, and text. A dozen "new" dinosaurs have been added, with pterosaurs relegated to illustrations of prehistoric scenes (and in the glossary and index), and with new titles in the suggested reading list. This volume is full of enough new material to warrant purchase as an updated replacement for the old (probably battered) edition already on your shelves. The text, while brief, is very readable, and the illustrations are colorfully bright and reflect not only what is known about dinosaur physiology, but also what artists and scientists imagine their skin patterning and coloration to have been.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—As the title implies, many Americans are still surprisingly misinformed with regard to Native American cultures. This highly accessible and informative book aims to dispel some of the major myths and stereotypes still surrounding Native people in the United States and Canada. By no means claiming to be comprehensive, the straightforward questions were compiled from actual phone calls, emails, letters, and in-person visits to the George Gustav Heye Center in New York, a major branch of the National Museum of the American Indian. The Native American writers who answered them did so concisely with hints of humor and an abundance of research and experience. Approximately 100 questions are arranged by topic, including identity; origins and histories; popular myths; clothing, housing, food, and health; ceremony and ritual, sovereignty; animals and land; language and education; love and marriage; and art, music, dance, and sports. Black-and-white photos appear throughout; many come from historical archives. With an extensive list of further reading, this is a top-notch resource for both people just learning about Native American cultures and those who think they know the facts.—Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 9 Up—This chronology includes astronomical discoveries (the dwarf planet then called Pluto, pulsars), innovations in rocketry, exploration of space by crewed and uncrewed missions, the search for extraterrestrial life, and even some space-related fiction. The scope is international, with the greatest focus on the American and Soviet space race; however, European, Asian, and recent private ventures are included. Coverage is balanced, including disasters (the Apollo fire), mistakes (the belief in Martian canals), and conflicting theories (the steady-state vs. Big Bang debate). Chapters cover one decade each and include a two-page "Scientist of the Decade" section that focuses on the career of one significant person and a time line of important events. Additional offset sections discuss significant concepts or provide factual data. Excellent black-and-white diagrams and photos depict equipment, concepts, and people. Space is extremely well detailed, the writing remains readable from start to finish, and an excellent index provides near-encyclopedic access. A fine history.—Jeffrey A. French, formerly at Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Gr 9 Up—This compact book has colorful photos and an upbeat design that is sure to appeal to teens. It is packed with 50 creative projects, including personal beauty products, clothing, and crafts. A lively foreword discusses techniques (stitching by hand), basic equipment, and where to find materials (craft store, large discount store, health food store, grocery store). It also explains how projects are divided according to difficulty. Varied typefaces, great use of color choices, sharp photos, a meticulous layout, and terrific projects make this book a winner. All projects can be completed in two to nine steps, illustrated with photos. Clothing includes skirts, "boys of the week" panties, tanks, halters, scarves, T-shirts, and more. Jewelry crafts use baubles, beads, a key, ribbon, and buttons. This title will be a good addition to collections in which Sherri Haab and Michelle Haab's Dangles and Bangles (Watson-Guptill, 2005) is popular.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 5—8—Free Speech attempts to answer four major questions: (1) Should Limits Be Placed on Free Speech? (2) Should Speech Be Limited to Protect National Security? (3) Should the Media Be Censored? (4) Are the Free Speech Limits in the Patriot Act Justified? The short chapters are cluttered with primary-source quotes and facts and illustrations that almost overshadow the narrative. "Key People and Advocacy Groups," a chronology, related organizations, a list of books, periodicals, and Internet sources for further research, source notes, a list of illustrations, an index, and "About the Author" take up 20 pages of the book. A foreword, "Free Speech at a Glance," and a general overview use an additional 10 pages. This book is poorly organized and doesn't dedicate enough space to the real questions. Students will find these issues better presented in the "Opposing Viewpoints" series.—Pat Scales, formerly at South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities, Greenville

Gr 4–6—Each of these attractive and informative introductions begins with a description of the types and formation of the rocks it covers. Fossils discusses plate tectonics, common fossils and where they are found, dinosaurs, fossil fuels, and the contributions of the study of these relics to paleontology. Igneous Rocks describes all three categories of rocks and what distinguishes them from each other, minerals, identification of igneous rocks, and their formation through volcanic activity. Sedimentary Rocks covers the Earth's structure, how these rocks are formed, fossils, and the various types. Each book includes quality color photographs and diagrams that do an exemplary job of expanding on the topics covered. Definitions of new terms appear at the bottoms of the pages. Although there is some necessary overlap among the titles, each volume can stand on its own. A useful set that will be especially helpful for reports.—Jeffrey A. French, formerly at Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Gr 5–7—The most riveting pop-up tour of human anatomy since Jonathan Miller's classic Human Body (Viking, 1983; o.p.) kicks off with two glitzy special effects—a cutaway brain with a push-button cascade of sparkles on the cover, then the sound of a beating heart triggered by fully opening the first spread—and goes on for a seven-spread survey of the body's systems and cell biology. Labels, captions, and blocks of text in various sizes and weights have been tucked into every available niche around digitally generated images of (clothed) bodies, body parts, and schematic views, along with occasional small color photos, several acetate overlays, and pop-ups of the chest cavity, a skull, and the digestive system. Smaller flaps lift to show, for instance, closed and open vocal cords. The pages look crowded but not jumbled, and corresponding verbal and visual information is clearly linked. There are some omissions, for instance the fifth kind of taste, "umami," but in general the basics are covered—and in dramatic ways that are certain to compel young readers to find out more. A sure thing for display, for casual browsing, and to crank science units up a notch.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 4 Up—This handsome volume introduces the two letters about the disaster. Using an advanced vocabulary and sophisticated sentence structure, the text sets the event in historical context and gives brief biographical information about the elder and younger Pliny and Tacitus. The letters are then given in translation with sections numbered. Suggestions for further reading include the works of Tacitus and Pliny the Elder's 10-volume Natural History. Moser's engravings reflect the darkness described in the text as day was turned to night by clouds of ash. Some show great movement, highlighting the panic of victims; others are absolutely still and survey the bleakness of the scenes. The bookmaking itself is impressive. The black text and engravings are printed on creamy paper with occasional letters or titles in red, like flashes of molten lava. The edges of the pages have been dyed black, and the endpapers suggest red landscapes obscured with pale lines of cloud and smoke. Because of its sophistication, this book is most likely to appeal to adults or special young people who won't be deterred by undefined words like "oratory," "canon," and "augur," and can appreciate the monochrome engravings.—Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA

Gr 6–8—This engaging, thought-provoking book provides a chronological account of Rasputin's life as well as the historical background necessary to understand it in context. Was Rasputin a holy man, or was he simply a philandering charlatan who rose to power because of his unique relationship with Tsar Nicholas and Tsarina Alexandra? The Romanovs were convinced that only he had the power to keep Alexis, their only son, who suffered from hemophilia, alive. In "Wicked?," a section at the end of the book, readers are asked questions to help them interpret history for themselves. Captioned, black-and-white period photographs enhance the text. Recommended for both curricular pursuits and pleasure reading.—Ragan O'Malley, Saint Ann's School, Brooklyn, NY

Gr 7 Up—This attractive volume includes reviews of more than 700 fiction titles, nonfiction, classics, and graphic novels that will be of interest to young adults. The reviewers/contributors are popular authors, librarians, and teens themselves. Brief entries of one half to one page per title are easy to read with black-and-white images of book covers, suggested ages, and additional recommendations included. The lively reviews are sorted alphabetically by title, indexed by author, and cross-referenced throughout the volume. Teen readers poll results and short articles on specific genres are interspersed among the entries, and all of the contributors are profiled at the back of the book. This book is easier to access than Nancy Pearl's Book Crush (Sasquatch, 2007). It's an excellent source for a variety of book reviews spanning time and genre. Useful for students, librarians, and teachers.—Corinda J. Humphrey, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 4–9—With energetic conductor Marin Alsop as a guide, Helsby has created a guide to instruments commonly found in an orchestra. Alsop's introductory essay establishes the friendly, accessible tone of the book: "Being a conductor is very much like being the captain of a team…." Utilizing large print; ample, colorful illustrations; and an open format, the book is logically organized into chapters about each of the musical instrument families, including keyboards, the voice, and modern electronic instruments. Throughout, readers are prompted to listen to the accompanying CD-ROM, which features more than 100 musical samples. Information is clearly presented, and the author's enthusiasm for her subject is contagious. Readers will enjoy browsing through the volume, and music teachers will welcome it with enthusiasm. While there are many other books on this topic, this one is the most comprehensive and accessible.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

Gr 6–8—These books concentrate on different aspects of life in Elizabethan England, using some common information about eating, sleeping, sanitation, and roles of men and women that would clarify many questions in that particular title. Good-quality, full-color reproductions help readers envision the people's homes, clothing, and lifestyles. The attractive, open format and the engaging presentation of the subject matter, combined with documented primary-source quotations and sidebars that include recipes, poetry, plays, and additional information, will appeal to both researchers and those who are just interested in learning more about this period.—Karen Scott, Thompson Middle School, Alabaster, AL

Gr 5–8—The veteran anthologist has selected 54 poems and divided them chronologically into eight sections representing major American conflicts. Each section is prefaced with an abbreviated description of the war. The poems do not always reference a specific conflict, but were chosen to convey its "emotional impact." Thus, Sir Walter Scott's lines from "Lady of the Lake" address an exhausted Revolutionary soldier, and Langston Hughes's "Dreams" concludes the Iraq War section. Contemporary (and near-contemporary) poets, from J. Patrick Lewis to Jane Yolen to Denise Levertov, are well represented, as a majority of these poems were commissioned for this collection. Earlier authors—from Walt Whitman to Carl Sandburg—also make a strong showing. A few of the poems are infused with the exultant rhetoric of war but many are small narratives or vignettes in which families ache and grieve, soldiers long for home. The full-color expressionist watercolors, with their bold line and large elongated figures that curve and angle, dominate the cream pages. Their details often set the accompanying words in a specific time. Their dramatic compositions with their recurring and creatively arranged iconography of war further dramatize and expand the poets' words. Their flaw is in the scarcity of brown and Asian faces in roles other than runaway slaves or victims. Laura Robb's Music and Drum: Voices of War and Peace, Hope and Dreams (Philomel, 1997) and Eloise Greenfield's When the Horses Ride By: Children in the Times of War (Lee & Low, 2006) touch on Native American experiences—a genocide that Hopkins's collection does not include. Still, the selections and art here, with their varying accessibility, make this a good choice for a wide range of ages and studies.—Nancy Palmer, The Little School, Bellevue, WA

Gr 4–6—History in all its glory and carnage is presented in each title. Readers take on a persona and get immersed in the action. For example, "you" might find yourself an Inca ruler, on your way to becoming an Inca mummy, or an 11-year-old boy, old enough to do a day's work in the cotton-making industry. "You" might also find yourself as a Mayan soothsayer, or holy man, or a Scotswoman named Grace Elliott, struggling to keep your head. Each story moves along at a quick pace. Cartoon illustrations are comical, dulling the horror of any torture, and anthropomorphic animals abound. The language is clear for the most part, and definitely engaging. New words are defined in glossaries, but there are no pronunciation guides. This would have been useful for words like mascapaicha or Kawiil or even guillotine. In general, students who like their history told in gory yet humorous detail will gravitate to these titles.—Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 8 Up—Keegan grew up in a loving, middle-class family in a small town in New York and wound up homeless and hopeless in California. He recounts his life from his teens through the present; now in his early 30s, he has been clean for two years. By detailing his own "often-harrowing" experiences, the depths of his heroin addiction, and his steps to recovery, Keegan hopes to reach at-risk young people who have experimented with drugs or who are using. Each chapter discusses "the science, medicine, and social trends of substance abuse" as well. Back matter includes the names of many national resources for help along with a section of "Frequently Asked Questions." This heartfelt, powerfully written book is an easy read and a first choice for all collections.—Lorraine B. Wiener, Inglewood High School, CA

Gr 9 Up—This is a well-rounded, valuable book for both classroom use and competition. The scenes range from funny to sweet to sad. Several entries concern animals, rites of passage, and historical events. Both contemporary and historical characters display a wide range of emotion, and there is enough flow and peak in all of the monologues for both beginners and advanced students. In addition, many of the selections are not gender specific. Each one presents a unique voice that will challenge teens without making it impossible for them to sound natural while speaking. This excellent book would make a smart purchase in preparation for forensics season.—Terrilyn Fleming, Colby Public Schools, KS

Gr 5–8—After an introduction to the civilization, each book begins with a creation story and continues with other central legends. Interspersed with the legends are brief descriptions of various topics relating to the culture, such as beliefs concerning the afterlife, music, religions, and so forth. The handsomely designed books are illustrated with works of art from the culture. Egyptian Myth is a well-organized presentation that includes information and tales about the gods and the pharaohs as well as magical stories and legends, providing an excellent introduction to this fascinating culture. Chinese Myth, while equally attractive and comprehensive, is less successful. Some of the information is not completely up-to-date. For example, the Xia dynasty, not the Shang, is now being recognized as the earliest dynasty based on archaeological evidence. Some inaccuracies exist as well. For example, the text is confusing when it discusses the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang Di, and implies that after his death, people began to consider him the immortal Huang Di, the Yellow Emperor, an entirely different character whose legendary origins begin in a much earlier period. Also there is confusion in the systems of transliteration with the third dynasty being referred to as the Zhou in one place and the Chou in another. These books promise much, and sometimes, but not always, deliver.—Barbara Scotto, Children's Literature New England, Brookline, MA

Gr 4–9—The bulk of this book is made up of personal essays from more than 40 kids aged 9 to 17 who do not smoke and say they never will. The reasons they give for this decision vary widely and will be compelling to a range of readers. Life experiences and opinions are supplemented by fact boxes filled with information and statistics, all well documented in the endnotes. But it is the voices of the young people that will have the strongest impact; some have lost family members, some are activists, and most have heartfelt reasons for avoiding tobacco. The book is divided into 10 sections that reflect the main categories given for not smoking. Sections include "Poor Sports Performance," "Addiction," "Cancer and Other Smoking-Related Illnesses," "Empty Pockets," and "Appearance." Given that many tweens feel invincible, reasons other than health issues are more likely to have an impact. The appealing font and gray backgrounds for young voices, Staffo's large line drawings, and occasional photographs and reproduced graphics all make for an attractive read. Ultimately this work will prove most effective with young people who are not yet smokers. An important addition.—Ernie Bond, Salisbury University, MD

Gr 5–8—These biographies provide an update on Gates's professional and personal life. Each account follows the now-familiar journey of the young computer genius from a prominent Seattle family to Harvard dropout, multibillionaire technology visionary, and defendant in lawsuits. What these books do is focus more than earlier biographies on his and wife Melinda's philanthropic work throughout the world, including their health and education initiatives. Schuman's volume stands out a bit from the others by being both the most readable and the one with the strongest coverage of the Gateses' public leadership role. A fair number of color photos highlight each title.—Carol Fazioli, Gwynedd-Mercy College, Gwynedd Valley, PA

Gr 4–6—Concise texts describe the featured insects' basic anatomy, outstanding physical and behavioral characteristics, diets, life cycles, roles in myths and legends, and effects on humans. Each title also includes a short survey of important groups (suborders, families) and from about a half dozen (in Dragonflies) to a dozen or so particular species. Sharp color photographs, most of which are detailed close-ups of representative species, illustrate the text on about every other page. Sidebars scattered throughout offer miscellaneous facts. In Ants and Dragonflies tinted maps indicate the geographical range of representative species. While many other introductions are available on these animals, Lockwood's texts are more succinctly written and present some facts not included elsewhere. For instance, Dragonflies uses the technical terms for certain behaviors—"hawking" is catching insects in midair; "gleaning" is hovering over plants to grab small insects, etc. All three titles also have more information on the creatures' ecological importance—Dragonflies and Ants point out that the insects are "indicator" species—animals that show whether or not an ecosystem is healthy. With their well-organized, succinct texts and excellent photography, these solid introductions will be valuable resources.—Karey Wehner, formerly at San Francisco Public Library

Gr 9 Up—These books combine fictional stories of teens facing various challenges with nonfiction sections providing textbook-style information about the challenge or condition. The fictional portions tell simplistic stories of depressed and dysfunctional teens who turn their lives around and find hope for the future. The nonfiction portions, which appear at the end of each short chapter, deliver statistics and facts interspersed with stock images that add little to the texts. The introduction (which is the same in each book) refers repeatedly to students with disabilities, which, in the case of these three titles, seems to imply that being gifted or transgendered or a cultural minority is a disability. The cover art is unappealing, particularly the illustration of the teen with gender issues. Readers with challenges to overcome deserve better resources than these books provide.—Marcia Kochel, Olson Middle School, Bloomington, MN

Gr 4–6—From the golden reptilian eye sunk into the cover through pull-tabs and flaps and foldouts and pop-ups to the tiny booklet entitled "Extreme Sports for Dinosaurs" attached to the back cover, this volume is an attention grabber. Arranged in a tabloid fashion on the super-thick pages are mini-headlines, information boxes, track facts, colorful illustrations, photographs, and paragraphs of text. Included are such goodies as a dino-test (with answers in a tiny booklet concealed in a glued-on envelope), a dino family tree, a Mesozoic time line, a glossary, and an "Extreme Hall of Fame." A nifty poster is tucked into the front cover. Surprisingly, all this razzle-dazzle does include some interesting information (not in-depth, but with all the interactive hoopla, who would mind?) and the whole package is a hands-down winner for eye-appeal and audience participation. Of course, the binding will disintegrate, the poster will disappear, the little booklets will vanish, and the flaps/tabs/foldouts/pop-ups will tear or be squashed, but a good time will be had by all until the Great Dissolution.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 5–7—For experienced young folders looking to sharpen their skill at creating multilimbed (and headed) figures, Nguyen offers step diagrams—all apparently of his own design—for 10 challenging monsters. The creatures range from a one-piece Vampire Bat to a four-piece Demon, and in the color photos of finished models, all have a rousingly predatory look. Though the creator is not above using the occasional scissors cut, a spot of glue or added color, his digitally drawn and colored diagrams use standard origami notation to indicate folds, are easy to follow, and will produce satisfying results. Beginners might be better off with some of the simpler projects in Isamu Asahi's Origami Monsters (Tuttle, 2002) or John Montroll's many titles.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Bees, Nye contends, could clearly teach us humans a thing or two. Though the insects themselves do not appear in all of this collection's 82 pieces (poems are interspersed with short prose pieces), their spirit does. The anthology is a rallying cry, a call for us to rediscover such beelike traits as interconnectedness, strong community, and honest communication. Readers are told that as humans they are at their best when "dipping and diving into the nectar of scenes. Tasting, savoring, and collecting sweetness." Though the poems are obviously told from a distinctively adult vantage point, teens at the very start of their questioning years will recognize their own angst in Nye's sense of irony, their idealistic optimism in her simple wonder. In the hands of a less talented poet, the extended bee analogy could have easily felt awkwardly imposed on such thorny issues as environmentalism, religious intolerance, political leadership, and the casualties of war. Luckily, Honeybee flows from the pen of a master, who has once again created a gem of a collection.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 5–8—A self-help book with solid, practical advice. The text is divided into three sections or, as they are called here, phases: "Why do I feel alone?," "How to stop feeling lonely," and "Finding solitude." Each section has a series of subsections with quick discussions of mini-topics designed to hold readers' attention while imparting the necessary information. For the most part, the presentation is clear, understandable, and immediate. However, the format occasionally breaks down and children are left with a muddied understanding. Does the author really mean to tell them that they need to dress like the crowd in order to fit in? The cartoon drawings are colorfully bright and match the text in its attempt to keep the tone light. For those individuals who approach their problems with an analytical mindset, this could be the perfect book to help conquer the natural bumps in the road that most young adolescents face.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 3–6—This slim volume focuses on Pompeii's history rather than on the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Starting with the image of a single hut, the author describes the growth of the city from a small group of farms from 750 B.C. to a bustling metropolis at the time of the disaster. Chapters include "The house at its peak A.D. 60," "The eruption A.D. 79," and "Forgotten Pompeii A.D. 1689." The final spread, "Romantic ruins Today," brings the chronology up-to-date. Two time lines give readers a visual perspective of the city as it changes. Small, detailed diagrams and illustrations with informative captions make up most of the spreads, which include two or three brief paragraphs of text. The book is successful as an introduction and good for browsing, but doesn't have enough information for reports.—Lana Miles, Jackson Elementary School, Rosenberg, TX

Gr 6–9—Many of the illustrations in these books are screen shots of Web pages related to the topics. The highlighted sites have interesting information, but are not necessarily on a child's level. Students would have to be highly motivated to explore even a fraction of them. Still, these are decent report biographies. They are well researched and fully referenced. The first title has some good-quality images of the Wright brothers' flights. Four activities related to flight and aerodynamics are included. The directions are fairly clear, although there are no step-by-step illustrations. Bernard Ryan's The Wright Brothers (Watts, 2003) has more personal information about the subjects; it is perhaps a better choice for those looking for a traditional biography. For those interested in having the Internet and activity resources, this is a good choice. Young's writing is fluid and has a minimum of fictionalization. Two activities designed to help students understand assembly lines and car design are included. Again, there are no illustrations. Although the author acknowledges his subject's accomplishments in creating the Ford Motor Company, he writes critically of Ford's anti-Semitism and anti-unionism. For example, in describing the "Battle of the Overpass," he calls Ford's men "hired thugs," while Michael Burgan in Henry Ford (Ferguson, 2001) calls them "Ford's security force." Young also puts a more negative spin on Ford's peace mission during World War I. For those looking for a "warts and all" view, this is a good choice.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 5–8—The explanations in these overviews are simple and clear. The colorful format is open, and illustrations appear on most spreads. Each work includes a single-page snapshot of key information such as the element's classification, properties, density, melting point, and boiling point; its history, where it can be found, how it is used in everyday life; and a simple explanation of the atom and its structure. Extra information is provided as relevant, both in boxed areas, found throughout, that highlight specific topics and key information (in Calcium, a chart of common foods shows the amounts of the mineral in each), and in the text. For example, Chlorine addresses the material's use as a poison during the World Wars; Phosphorus details the element's use in fertilizer and matches; and Sulfur includes information on medical uses. Each book also has a spread devoted to the periodic table. These titles are similar in content and leveling to those in "The Elements" series (Marshall Cavendish) but they include Web sites, lists for further reading, and bibliographies, which the Marshall Cavendish series does not. Also, the visuals here add more to the texts, and the periodic table of the elements is clearer and easier to interpret. Useful additions to school and public libraries.—Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Gr 5–8—This tribute to a contemporary American artist reveals the influences behind the man and his work. Rubin's admiration for her subject is evident in an introductory note in which she describes meeting and interviewing him. Thiebaud is often referred to as a Pop artist and compared to Andy Warhol. He rejects that label, preferring to place his artwork within the realistic tradition. His choice of everyday subjects is driven by a desire to paint things that "have been overlooked." The how and why of his work is meticulously revealed as readers learn about his childhood, his artistic training and background, and his struggle to find his style and to gain an audience. Each of these aspects of his life is presented as the raw material for his art. Thiebaud's personal life and family members are mentioned, but only in relation to his life as an artist. Reproductions have been chosen to illustrate each chapter's main topic. Readers will find Thiebaud's brightly colored images of desserts, toys, and everyday objects accessible and even inspirational. Several photos of the artist both as a child and as an adult at his easel, as well as a self-portrait, are included. The book's design is a work of art. From the colorful striped endpapers to the muted solid background on every page, each component supports the artist and his work. A must-purchase for collections.—Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI

Gr 6 Up—Opening with Porfirio Díaz's presidency (beginning in 1876), Revolution explains how Indian land was expropriated and allotted to rich hacienda owners, describes resistance movements led by Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa, and details 10 years of political upheaval and violent uprisings (1910–1920), ending with Alvaro Obregó's election as president of Mexico. The revolution's brutality and effects on the average peasant are emphasized throughout. Independence covers the years between 1521, when Hernando Cortés completed his conquest of the Aztec empire, and 1855, when Antonio Lopez Santa Anna was overthrown. The book provides excellent background information about three centuries of Spain's rule over Mexico. Of particular interest is the explanation of the racial hierarchy that played such an important role in fueling the desire for independence. Both volumes have a lively narrative style; the events come alive as interesting stories rather than listings of facts and dates. The texts incorporate numerous quotes that are cited in source notes. Pertinent illustrations, including photographs, historical paintings, and maps are sprinkled throughout. Boxed sections provide more detail about the topics. Two well-written and well-researched volumes.—Sheilah Kosco, Bastrop Public Library, TX

Gr 5–7—Following the lead of the exemplary "Scientists in the Field" series (Houghton), this is another handsomely packaged, profusely illustrated portrait of a researcher whose "lab" is the great outdoors-in this case, the driest deserts, coldest waters, and other most inhospitable environments on Earth. In order to explore the feasibility of life on other planets, NASA scientist Chris McKay travels in turn to Antarctica's Dry Valleys and ice-covered Lake Hoare, to Chile's Atacama Desert, Siberia, and the Sahara to study the bacteria and other microscopic organisms that call such climatic extremes home. The photographs, which are reproduced with unusual clarity, range from shots of McKay and his colleagues at work in various rugged settings to micrographs of bacteria, from satellite photos to side-by-side pairings of physical features in the Atacama and intriguingly similar formations on Mars. Closing with an author's statement and digestible lists of multimedia resources, this profile is an engagingly written, visually appealing follow-up to more general introductions, such as Bill Doyle's The Space Explorer's Guide to the Universe (Scholastic, 2003).—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 3–6—This compact book has great color graphics throughout. It is brimming with creative design and varied typefaces, and is written in a lively, kid-friendly manner. Each of the game's directions includes setting up (clear diagrams), "Your Move" (in steps), "The Goal," and "And the winner is!" Besides a traditional checkers game, kids can play Turkish, French, and Japanese games, and others such as "The Coyote and the Chickens," "Achi," "Pyramid Checkers," "Diagonal Checkers," "Seega," "Fox and Geese," "Wildebeest," and more. Directions are succinct and easy to follow. For hours of endless fun, alone or with a friend, suggest that readers get a checkerboard and keep this book handy. It is sure to pique the interest of children, friends, and families.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 10 Up—Windelspecht begins this comprehensive overview with the early history of genetics, focusing primarily on the experiments of Gregor Mendel in the 19th century and Thomas Hunt Morgan in the early 20th. Subsequent chapters build on readers' increasing understanding of the material, expertly cross-referencing information explained earlier. The material is organized chronologically, explaining genetics through the experiments and discoveries of various scientists, illuminating the topic in much the same order as the field has developed. The experiments that have led to our current-day understanding of genetics, including patterns of inheritance and molecular genetics, as well as the application of the science to areas such as cloning are explained in great detail. The title covers hot topics like gene therapy, including the use of viral vectors, enzyme replacement, and germ line therapy; it also discusses DNA fingerprinting and genetic engineering, and briefly touches on stem cells. The black-and-white illustrations are helpful in explaining mathematical concepts or experimental procedures, but offer little in terms of visual relief from the dense text. Although this is written for those with little or no knowledge of genetics, the material is compactly presented and would be a significant challenge for the average teen.—Ragan O'Malley, Saint Ann's School, Brooklyn, NY

Gr 4–8—This edition follows the format of Cool Stuff and How It Works (DK, 2005), with no duplication and with eye-catching spreads devoted to cutting-edge products and inventions. More than 100 entries present a wide variety of topics with high child appeal, from robot cars to high-tech toilets. Some explain the workings of products popular with kids, such as Lego Mindstorm™. Others, such as the "vomit comet" used in astronaut training, are less familiar, but equally intriguing, and some look ahead to likely developments that don't yet exist, such as a "silent flight" aircraft that "could be a reality by 2030." Beyond the "cool" factor, many of these new technologies also benefit people and the environment in powerful ways that are noted throughout. Full but uncluttered layouts mix photos, text boxes, diagrams, and captions to highlight key elements. Contextual background is occasionally sparse; the article on the ULTra taxi®, for instance, provides excellent photos and describes the features of the vehicle, but does not mention where or when it might be used. For the most part, though, readers should have an easy time understanding the basics of what each item does, how it is used, and how it works. Along with up-to-date scientific information on high-interest topics, this title has very strong browsing appeal and great booktalk potential.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 5–8—This third book in the series, which focuses on 11 sleight-of-hand card tricks, builds on the skills learned in the first two. In most cases, color photographs show the beginning position of the hands and the cards, followed by text explaining the trick's steps. The instructions are clear and the added dialogue or stage presentation hints are helpful. The titles in the series should be purchased together, if at all. There are many other quality books on the subject, such as Jon Tremaine's Amazing Book of Magic and Card Tricks (Quadrillion, 1998), that are more thorough.—Cynde Suite, Bartow County Library System, Adairsville, GA