Grades 5 & Up

Gr 6–8—When a 14th-century peasant boy stumbles onto a mysterious corpse, his life is inexorably altered. From the hand of the dead knight, Grimpow extracts a talisman that turns out to be no less than the famed philosopher's stone over which kings and popes have tortured and killed in order to gain its possession and its powers. Hiding from the Inquisition in a local abbey, Grimpow discovers that the stone enables him to read and learn at a remarkable pace, but he is filled with the sense that he must fulfill a quest begun by the mysterious knight. Setting out as squire to a dashing young noble, Grimpow must not only solve riddles posed by the stone, but also survive brutal battles to keep it. This attempt at high fantasy leans heavily on the current fascination for tales of the Knights Templar, enigmatic quests, and young boys with special powers. However, a plodding story line that weaves in too many threads (the Inquisition, Copernican and Galilean theories of astronomy and alchemy, among others) without explanation will leave readers baffled and struggling to make sense of all the drama. Add an abrupt and unsatisfying ending and this becomes, at best, an additional purchase.—Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WI

Gr 4–7—Gil, 14, has been expelled from school and sent to the Massachusetts coast to reside with his poetry-loving, eccentric grandfather. The old man doesn't own a television, uses a typewriter, drives a beat-up Volkswagen, and can only offer his grandson a 30-year-old bicycle as transportation. While walking his grandfather's dog, Gil decides to explore Rattle Beach. A curious-looking bottle floating in the water attracts his attention. For a joke, he pens a distress call, places it inside the empty container, and throws it back into the water. Returning later, he finds the bottle again and discovers an urgent message inside it. It is from Sikander, a boy from India who is living 100 years in the past, when a war is brewing. As the two boys continue to correspond, Sikander's family gets into a deadly situation and he begs Gil for help. Other paranormal events include a ghostly mailman, a skeletal hand, a djinn (or genie), and a love affair that spans the centuries. It appears that the events are interrelated, but the teen is not sure how. Readers will empathize with the plight of the characters, but a favorite of many kids, the genie, is not well developed. Also, a few of the plot threads are not fleshed out, but even so, readers will find the book scary enough to thrill and clever enough to challenge their deductive reasoning.—Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

Gr 4–6—Avon the snail discovers how difficult writing is when he attempts to describe his own adventure. He agonizes over what to write and then becomes totally flummoxed after getting one word on paper, and his friend Edward, an ant, tries to help by offering words of encouragement. What follows are two companions stumbling through a series of comical events ending in an adventure of their own. Smartly written, the story shows how Edward says one thing and Avon assumes another. Through this give-and-take banter, a cleverly laid point about writing is established. Avi's fans will find delight in the musings of Avon and Edward as they become wiser in their composing quest. Clever prose provides thought-provoking scenes full of wit and charm, and well-placed sketches add insightful visuals into the mood of the characters. Strong readers will make the connection between the characters' follies and lessons learned.—Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

Gr 5–8—When nine-year-old Ethan leaves his family to be bound out to Mr. Lyman, his father tries to make it sound like an adventure and an opportunity to learn a trade. But Ethan knows that it is a necessity: his father has no other way to pay off his debts to the wealthy shopkeeper. The Lymans' other indentured servant is a surly teenager who rebuffs Ethan's attempts at friendship. Mr. Lyman is initially affectionate and gracious to Ethan and warns him against spending too much time with Daniel, a "difficult boy" whom the Lymans call Paddy to underscore his Irish inferiority. But when Ethan accidentally breaks a plate, he witnesses how quickly the man's benevolent demeanor can transform into violent rage, and, after a vicious beating, he and Daniel begin to form a bond. But to the town, and even to Ethan's parents, the man is a shining example of virtue, teaching these boys a trade and "disciplining" them only when their misdeeds warrant it. As the boys' friendship grows stronger, Ethan learns more of Daniel's tragic past and the circumstances that have bound him to the Lymans. How Ethan and Daniel bolster each other and escape Mr. Lyman's tyranny makes for a memorable tale of friendship and a fascinating glimpse into mid-19th-century Massachusetts. Like L. M. Elliott's Give Me Liberty (HarperCollins, 2006), this is an eye-opening look at indentured servitude in American history.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 6–9—In the newly formed Third Reich, Hitler's initial political doctrine is filled with hopeful solutions for a country plagued with unemployment, poverty, and a post-World War I feeling of defeat. Propaganda and promises quickly turn to oppressive new laws including the required participation in the Hitler Youth. Helmuth Hübener enters the program and is at once impressed with the bravado, shiny uniforms, boots, and patriotic fever sweeping the country. But his Mormon-based teachings trigger questions in his mind about the reality behind the regime's invasions of neighboring countries, mistreatment of Jewish citizens, and closely controlled media. He creates an underground newsletter with information gathered from BBC reports using an illegal shortwave radio. As he secretly distributes the flyers throughout the town, his boldness encourages him to gather several accomplices resulting in his arrest, trial, and execution. The novel opens as he is on death row, and the story is told as a series of flashbacks. Helmuth is portrayed as a brave, outspoken voice amid a family of acquiescing brothers, mother, and new SS stepfather. Based on a real person, the novel includes black-and-white photos of Hübener and his family. Bartoletti offers another perspective on the Holocaust, demonstrating that even if the effort proves unsuccessful, the courage and convictions of a minority should be motivation to speak the truth rather than remain silent. It's a message that must be continually emphasized as a lasting legacy of the Holocaust.—Rita Soltan, Youth Services Consultant, West Bloomfield, MI

Gr 5–9—In this suspenseful, supernatural tale, Jonathan Starling, 14, has a talent for escaping notice. This ability, combined with his father's inattentive parenting and frequent periods of illness ("darkenings"), makes playing hooky to explore London easy. Then, a frightening home invasion takes him to an unfamiliar part of the city. Pursued by a fluorescent-haired, oddly persuasive bounty hunter and her two henchmen, Jonathan escapes through a gateway into "Darkside." Old and new dangers await him in the sinister, grimy, and hidden place founded by Jack the Ripper. It's populated by supernatural beings and fiendishly evil humans. There, Jonathan befriends the growling (though ultimately good) wereman Carnegie, a vampire's gutsy servant, and a kidnapped teen who shares Jonathan's unique "part-Darksider" heritage. With help from "Lightside" allies, they find their way to safety, but unvanquished dangers suggest that it's temporary. The plot is engaging, but the descriptive prose is Becker's real strength. "Darkside" is imaginative and "Lightside" is a fine description of London. Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere (HarperCollins, 1997) boasts a dark and dangerous sub-London, but Darkside is for a younger audience and Becker's shadowed, deviant district stands on its own. Typical of a series, it leaves threads untied, laying the groundwork for future installments.—Danielle Serra, Cliffside Park Public Library, NJ

Gr 6–9—This is an immensely appealing book about 12-year-old Nick McIver, son of a lighthouse owner, who lives on Greybeard Island off the coast of Great Britain in 1939. Opening with a thrilling near-fatal sailboat excursion, the action kicks into high gear when Nick finds a sea chest containing a mysterious glowing globe. Hunted by pirates from the past who seek the globe, a time-travel device, Nick finds himself bouncing back and forth in time fighting exceedingly nasty pirates, Napoleon's naval forces in 1805, and Nazi spies in 1939. Nick is the pluckiest, most likable boy-hero since Robert Lewis Stevenson's David Balfour (Kidnapped). With great battle scenes; lots of nautical jargon; and themes of courage, integrity, and honor, this book will appeal to restless boys who can never find books written just for them. Three huzzahs and a great big 21-gun salute to Bell for his first novel for kids. Hopefully, it won't be his last.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK

Gr 6–8—Emery has dumped his two daughters at his family's ghostly, crumbling ancestral plantation home with his peculiar sister and brother-in-law who are most unhappy to host the girls while he searches for his wife, who has left the family. The house itself seems to respond to the needs and fears of the sisters and begins to slowly draw 11-year-old Tennyson into its legacy through dreams of its past grandeurs and sorrows. The story is set during the Great Depression when the South is still reeling from the economic devastation of the Civil War. Tennyson is desperate to find her mother and hatches a scheme to reach her by having articles published in her mother's favorite literary magazine. Blume has an impressive command of the English language, but the story is too contrived. The manuscripts Tennyson sends to the magazine are written on old sheet music, so it's highly unlikely that a distinguished literary magazine would even consider such work. The characters run the gamut of Southern stereotypes, from the cruel white master and the silver-stealing slaves who appear in Tennyson's dreams to the aunt and uncle who are trying to get restitution from the federal government for losses incurred during the Civil War and a faithful retainer who is a descendant of the family's slaves. It's unfortunate that the author's considerable writing talent lacks a stronger plot.-Nancy Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC

Gr 8 Up—Best friends Chris and Win head out on a West Virginia to Washington State bicycle adventure after high school graduation, at the end of which Win disappears. Alternating chapters flash back to details of the trip, then forward to a private investigation instigated by Win's powerful father to uncover why his son told lies to Chris about an uncle in Seattle who doesn't exist, among other things. Little by little, Win's rich, domineering, and neglectful parents come more into focus, and it becomes evident that the teen needed to escape their iron rule. Win's father is sure Chris is keeping his son's whereabouts a secret. When Chris does figure out where his friend is hiding, everything comes together, as Win deflects his controlling father and sets out to make a life of his own. Chris is a well-drawn character, and readers will care about him. Win is naturally a puzzle-angry, and fighting to become himself. The story moves quickly and will easily draw in readers. Though appearing to be a mystery, it is actually a cross-country personal quest, built on vignettes of realistic encounters along the way, like Ellen Wittlinger's Zigzag (S & S, 2003).—Diane P. Tuccillo, Fort Collins Regional Library District, CO

Gr 8 Up—Too stubborn to let go of the troubled mill that has supported her community for generations, Charlotte Miller takes over after her father's death, fighting impending disaster with bargains with a mysterious Jack Spinner that eventually threaten her infant son. Set in a rural valley in the late 1700s, this reworking of the "Rumplestiltskin" story includes ghosts, witchcraft, elements of Georgian society, and much earlier folk magic in the guise of a novel of manners. The leisurely paced narrative gathers steam as it becomes clear that the family and the mill have not simply had a long run of bad luck, but are seriously cursed. Readers need not be familiar with the folktale to see where Charlotte's efforts to save her mill are headed. Though their roles in the narrative are clear, secondary characters are distinctive: foppish Uncle Wheeler is more than a stereotyped villain, and Charlotte's eventual husband is an admirable romantic lead with unsuspected talents. A rich opening to Jane Austen's world for teens.—Kathleen Isaacs, Towson University, MD

Gr 5–8—Told not to write anything that would get the administration riled up, Zebby Bower becomes fed up and quits as editor of the school newspaper. Soon after, she and her friend Amr begin their own online newspaper, one that they hope will provide a true voice to the students of Truman Middle. It takes off, but in an unfortunate direction. When anonymous posts about popular Lilly Clarke start to get vicious, calling her a homo, a lesbo, and more, the devastated girl goes missing, and the site's creators scramble to figure out what to do. Chapters alternate among Zebby, Amr, and the students surrounding the scheme to ruin Lilly, each one providing a unique perspective as the action unfolds. With anonymous entries that subtly build suspense, the events brought about by this 21st-century slam book cause the characters to examine how the things they say and do can be hurtful to others without even realizing it. The story moves at a good pace and the timely subject of cyberbullying will be relevant to readers. The language is accessible and the students' voices ring true. This thought-provoking read is sure to initiate discussion.—Bethany A. Lafferty, Las Vegas-Clark County Library, NV

Gr 7 Up—Seventeen-year-old Maya's carefully constructed world consists of Advanced Placement classes, waitressing at her family's Thai restaurant, and tutoring at school. There's definitely no room for Camden King, the megahottie who's megatrouble. After her parents leave her in charge for five days, Maya's plans for the future are jeopardized when uncharacteristic carelessness leads to a hefty fine for the restaurant. Desperate to keep her predicament a secret, she trades her scruples for cash by agreeing to do Camden's homework for money. Thus, an unlikely alliance is forged. Things spiral out of control with Maya not only risking her admission to Stanford by turning the arrangement into a thriving business, but also falling victim to Camden's charms. It's a familiar slippery slope plot-teen lands in trouble, teen digs in deeper trying to get out of trouble, teen confesses and makes amends. But Cheva's writing, full of sarcastic wit and snappy comebacks, raises the bar, and the flirty banter between Maya and Camden makes this romantic comedy more than bearable. Maya is the perfect spokesperson for an underrepresented crowd-wisecracking overachievers who make being smart cool.—Erin Schirota, Bronxville Public Library, NY

Gr 9 Up—Friendless, bullied by her mother, and insecure, 15-year-old Andrea Anderson considers herself a "Nothing" until she starts dog-sitting for Honora, an eccentric life-loving artist who is battling cancer. Their friendship grows organically and realistically through the novel, slowly causing Andrea to learn to value herself. Honora (and her St. Bernard, Zena) is the true star of the book, a powerful character almost too full of wisdom and kindness in a uniquely independent feminist way. The story is well placed in the naturalistic beauty of small-town Pennsylvania. The smoothly written narrative is imbued with a sense of faith in humanity and respect for the arts. Primarily a book about adults as seen through a young woman's eyes, and the effect this relationship has on her own growth, this languid read for introspective girls is an auspicious winner of the 2006 Delacorte Press First Novel Contest.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Ruby, 17, is taken in by her older sister and brother-in-law when her mother abandons her. Ruby and her sister haven't spoken since Cora left for college a decade earlier. She moves from a semi-heated, semi-lighted farmhouse to a McMansion in a gated community. The theme of abandonment permeates the narrative-Ruby's mother's disappearance, Cora's perceived abandonment, and all of the small abandonments around every corner throughout Ruby's life. The plot hinges luxuriously on character arc. Ruby's drama of pathological self-reliance to eventual trust plays out through thoughtful, though occasionally heavy-handed, inner monologue and metaphor. As always, Dessen's characters live and breathe. Ruby's sweet hipster brother-in-law and Nate, the freakishly affable hottie next door, are especially vivid, and Cora's change from bitter control freak to sympathetic co-protagonist is subtle and seamless. Though Ruby and Nate don't have quite the cinematic chemistry of many of Dessen's couples, their cautious friendship into romance seems that much more realistic. The author's feel for setting is as uncanny as ever, and Ruby's descriptions of the homogenous nouveau riche Anytown are sharp, clever, and honest. The dialogue, especially between Ruby and Cora, is crisp, layered, and natural. The slow unfolding adds to an anticipatory mood. What's more, secrets and situations revealed in the second half of the novel are resolved more believably by already deeply developed characters. Recommend this one to patient, sophisticated readers.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 10 Up—When he ditches school one Friday morning, 17-year-old Marcus is hoping to get a head start on the Harajuku Fun Madness clue. But after a terrorist attack in San Francisco, he and his friends are swept up in the extralegal world of the Department of Homeland Security. After questioning that includes physical torture and psychological stress, Marcus is released, a marked man in a much darker San Francisco: a city of constant surveillance and civil-liberty forfeiture. Encouraging hackers from around the city, Marcus fights against the system while falling for one hacker in particular. Doctorow rapidly confronts issues, from civil liberties to cryptology to social justice. While his political bias is obvious, he does try to depict opposing viewpoints fairly. Those who have embraced the legislative developments since 9/11 may be horrified by his harsh take on Homeland Security, Guantánamo Bay, and the PATRIOT Act. Politics aside, Marcus is a wonderfully developed character: hyperaware of his surroundings, trying to redress past wrongs, and rebelling against authority. Teen espionage fans will appreciate the numerous gadgets made from everyday materials. One afterword by a noted cryptologist and another from an infamous hacker further reflect Doctorow's principles, and a bibliography has resources for teens interested in intellectual freedom, information access, and technology enhancements. Curious readers will also be able to visit BoingBoing, an eclectic group blog that Doctorow coedits. Raising pertinent questions and fostering discussion, this techno-thriller is an outstanding first purchase.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

Gr 9 Up—When a nun at her Catholic school confiscates and reads aloud in class a note to Laura Amores from another girl, declaring her love, the teen is kicked out of her school and her home. Soon after, Laura's devoted girlfriend yields to family pressure and accepts a marriage proposal. Abandoned, heartbroken, and confused, Laura takes refuge with another friend and struggles to find a home and identity in both the straight and the gay world. Her story isn't uncommon in the queer-teen-lit canon, but Dole's infusion of lively, spicy Cuban-American culture set against a hot Miami setting makes it rise above many other titles in the genre. While some of the action occasionally feels blunt and forced, Laura's unique, spunky attitude fleshes out the more dramatic bits and keeps the pages turning. Readers will relish the teen's descriptions of the food, fury, and passion that make up her life. Dole captivatingly colors Laura and her entourage with a rainbow of multicultural dialects, bits of Spanish, and slang. Teens will cheer for Laura in her struggle to find herself and a family.—Hillias J. Martin, New York Public Library

Gr 4–6—Ally's plans for fifth grade are falling apart. On the first day of school her best friend, Betsy, deserts her for popular, fabulous Mona. Now Ally won't be able to perform "Bridge over Troubled Water" with her in the talent show. Then along comes Tina, the new girl. Most kids think she's completely bizarre, as her clothes and hair are weird and she doesn't seem to care about the opinions of others. To her surprise, Ally gets along with Tina and finds a comfortable place with the socially awkward, nonjudgmental, smart kids at school. Predictably, in the end, she must choose between the cool kids and her newfound friends. This is an enjoyable read, and many girls will see themselves in the protagonist. However, many recent books feature quirky female characters, and this one struggles to stay with the pack. Ally makes references to Princess Leia, disco, and Simon and Garfunkel, which could make it challenging for readers to ascertain the story's time frame. Although her antics are entertaining, Tina's aloofness may distance readers from her struggles with her bipolar mother. The story is sweet, but the eccentric girls in Linda Urban's A Crooked Kind of Perfect (Harcourt) and Lauren Tarshis's Emma-Jean Lazarus Fell out of a Tree (Dial, both 2007) are better developed characters.—Laura Lutz, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 5–8— "The Army way is the right way." So says Jamie Dexter's father, The Colonel, a die-hard officer who has raised Jamie and her older brother, TJ, to be proud believers in the U.S. military. Stationed at Fort Hood, TX, in the summer of 1969, Jamie's family is tested when TJ decides to forgo college and volunteers for the Medical Corps in Vietnam. The spirited 12-year-old wishes that she could go, and she shocked to discover that The Colonel disapproves. When TJ sends rolls of film home from the front, Jamie learns how to develop them. They are chock-full of pictures of his surroundings and his favorite subject, the moon, but over time she's less eager to develop the increasingly disturbing images. As Jamie learns about the war from soldiers at the fort's rec center and watches her father grow disenchanted with the Army, her firm worldview is shaken. The clear, well-paced first-person prose is perfectly matched to this novel's spare setting and restrained plot. Dowell captures Jamie's growing self-awareness and maturity with the slightly detached, wistful tone of a memoir related well after the fact, and the precise clarity of a developing photograph. This thoughtful and satisfying story is more a novel of family and growth than of war. Readers will find beauty in its resolution, and will leave this eloquent heroine reluctantly. This is Dowell's most cohesive and engaging novel yet.—Riva Pollard, American Indian Public Charter School, Oakland, CA

Gr 5–8—A mediocre science-fiction novel from a wonderful fantasy writer. The setting, a domed suburb in some distant future, seems far too familiar and worn out. Like many books before it, The Sky Inside paints a bleak future filled with mind-numbed people going about their days. And, as always, there is one child filled with the curiosity to break through the mind freeze and find his way into adventure. Dunkle's setting and plot may be overdone and trite, but her characters show her true writing ability. Thirteen-year-old Martin, his A.I. dog, and his sister are well-rounded and thought-provoking characters filled with imagination and real emotions. Fans of science fiction may enjoy the story, even though they've probably read it before.—Lisa Marie Williams, East Gwillimbury Public Library, Holland Landing, Ontario

Gr 5–9—A high school athlete is seriously injured by a wild pitch, and he, his family and friends, teachers, coaches, and eyewitnesses share their reactions and feelings about the incident in free-verse monologues. Luke "Wizard" Wallace is a determined, talented player, and a leader on the field and off. Then, in a game versus their archrivals, he leans into a fastball thrown by Kyle Dawkins and is hit by a pitch that leaves him blind in one eye. This plot-driven, brief novel is a page-turner, though its protagonist and supporting characters are one-dimensional. Most are defined chiefly by their relation to Luke: the sympathetic coach; the "win at all costs" coach; his loyal friends and family. Fehler's straightforward story may appeal to die-hard sports fans, but Scott Johnson's Safe at Second (Philomel, 1999) and Carl Deuker's High Heat (Houghton, 2003), two novels that also deal with sports accidents and their aftermath, offer both compelling story lines and memorable characters.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 8–10—Alice has never been part of the in-crowd at school. She hangs with the artsies, as well as her best friend, a boy named Jewel whom she has known since grade school. Then one day something weird happens—a popular football player named Simon starts noticing her. Jewel starts noticing her too. In the course of one week, both boys kiss her and she likes both kisses equally. Initially, she dates Simon, and, as a result, her friendship with Jewel is shattered, and she must make a decision about what's really important to her. The story is upbeat, but the pacing is slow, and the plot is a bit obvious. However, the mood of reflection is sustained throughout, the characters are fully fleshed out, and high school life is accurately portrayed.—Jennifer-Lynn Draper, Children's Literature Consultant, Aurora, ON, Canada

Gr 7–10—Stories about teens with disabilities are not often a top choice for YA leisure reading. Nonetheless, when told well, they cut to the bone and open a window to empathy. This anthology by a stellar cast of YA authors introduces teens with a mix of physical and psychological problems from asthma to Tourette's syndrome. The young people's challenges are broad and diverse, and the settings range from high school to hospital environments. Robert Lipsyte's story about cancer is a creative and compassionate survival tale. Recuperating in the hospital, several boys share one commonality, the unnerving wait for their prognoses. Chris Crutcher revisits Eddie, the main character from The Sledding Hill (HarperCollins, 2005). Eddie's racing and obsessive thoughts—and nonstop talk—replicate a frustrating day in a very intelligent boy's ADD zone. David Lubar's "Here's to Good Friends" is about a teen alcoholic, the surviving drunk driver in an accident that kills two friends. Fortunately, it's a setup. Jolted to face his denial, Brad has the fantasy wake-up call of a second chance. Some stories give hope, some strive to smooth out an unfortunate twist of fate, yet too many press toward real situations that feel too simple. Overall, a useful but not outstanding collection.—Alison Follos, North Country School, Lake Placid, NY

Gr 7–10—As the first embers of the French Revolution begin to burn, Yann Margoza, a 14-year-old voice thrower and mind reader, watches his simple life as a magician's assistant disappear before his eyes. During one fateful midnight performance at the chateau of an overindulgent, debt-ridden marquis, a string of irreversible events unfurls. Jolted from the only world he's known, Yann becomes inextricably intertwined with the marquis's 12-year-old daughter and lecherous, treacherous Count Kalliovski. Yann struggles to make the right choices while coming to terms with his origins and unique abilities in order to save those he loves. Gardner deftly plays out the same brand of intrigue, romance, and murky intentions beautifully rendered in recent period magician films, The Prestige and The Illusionist. Readers will root for Yann and Sido as they struggle toward adulthood amid the political and social turmoil surrounding and sometimes endangering them. At the book's end, Gardner provides further historical background on late-18th-century France, though most readers will find themselves wishing simply for a sequel to continue this engrossing tale.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 8 Up—This gripping tale of revenge goes beyond the stereotypical "outsiders get even" story. Meghan and Aimee are on opposite ends of the outcast spectrum. Meghan is extremely overweight, and it is more than hinted at that she has a binge-eating disorder. Aimee, on the other hand, is classic anorexic. Both girls have been hurt by one of the popular girls at school. They join forces to bring Cara down in a stunning bit of public humiliation. Themes of invisibility, familial dysfunction, and fitting in are all explored to some extent. Although the plot moves along at a fairly quick pace and keeps readers engaged, the ultimate conclusion is unsettling, to say the least. Aimee and Meghan become friends, but remain invisible to the other students at school. Cara rewrites what happened in her own head to remove any guilt from herself, and there is no resolution at all to a confrontation between the English teacher and the basketball coach, which looked to be a promising plot thread concerning sports versus academics. Neither girl receives any help with her eating disorder, even though Meghan's mother appears to be loving and Aimee's reaches out to her. Despite the loose ends, the story will make readers think about the various issues touched upon, and it is difficult to put down.—Robin Henry, Griffin Middle School, Frisco, TX

Gr 5–8—Darkness overshadows this coming-of-age story. Niner is the nickname Macey's classmates have given to her because she is missing a thumb. She has been with her adoptive family since she was six months old; before that she had two foster mothers. Macey eventually learns that her birth mother left her in a trash bag. She thinks that her sister, Deena, has all the advantages she lacks; she is blond and blue-eyed, smart, and the biological daughter in the family. Her attributes are in marked contrast to Macey's dark skin, wiry hair, and slow understanding. Still, they are very close. The family lives in a run-down part of Philadelphia that has the typical urban problems with drug dealers and gangs. Their mom has been gone for 10 months, and Macey worries that the woman left because of her. She befriends a new kid in town, Eugene, who is homeless, morbidly obese, and has no one to turn to. The sisters keep an incident involving a scary, menacing stranger who has been threatening them a secret from their father. They also have to deal with a racist grandmother. There are too many events here for one juvenile novel. The only positive message to emerge from all the pain is that Macey's dad finally convinces her that genes only determine outward appearances and that her feelings and heart are her own.—Lillian Hecker, Town of Pelham Public Library, NY

Gr 4–8—Haddix's latest science fiction series starts off with a bang in this nail-biter. A plane arrives at an airline gate unnoticed by radar and most personnel. There are no flight attendants, no pilot, in fact no adults at all, but there are 36 passengers—each seat is inhabited by an infant. Thirteen years later in Ohio, teenage adoptees Jonah and his friend Chip begin receiving ominous messages declaring that they are among "the missing" and that someone is coming to find them. Frightened yet intrigued, the boys begin a search for their real identities with the help of Jonah's younger sister. Their search leads them to a discovery that strains credulity and leads them into danger greater than they ever imagined possible. The story is driven by an exciting plot rather than extensive character development, and the teens act independently of the adults, who appear as "bad guys" or are basically useless. If used in a classroom, the revelation of the babies' identities can be used to kick off a history lesson or two. This book's exciting premise and cliff-hanger ending will leave readers on the edge of their seats and begging for more.—Heather M. Campbell, Philip S. Miller Library, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 4–7—Travis, 12, and his younger sister, Corey, are high-spirited youngsters who love to play tricks on unsuspecting targets. When they discover that their grandmother's Vermont inn, Fox Hill, is reportedly haunted, they can't wait to cook up some ghostly manifestations to scare the guests and liven up their summer vacation. But their pranks turn terrifyingly real when they awaken Ada Jaggs, an evil and vengeful spirit. The shadows of children she tormented and mistreated in the past when the county poor farm was located at Fox Hill are also roused. Events soon spiral out of control, frightening the staff and guests of the inn, and Travis and Corey must discover a way to get rid of Ada and release the children to their final rest. Part of this plan includes opening her grave—a task that, of course, must be done at midnight. Hahn has written another fast-paced ghost story that readers will relish, shivering all the while. An interesting thread is the comparison of the lively children whom Ada hated and targeted with Travis and Corey—all are boisterous, energetic kids with a mischievous gleam in their eye.—Terrie Dorio, Santa Monica Public Library, CA

Gr 7–10—In the spirit of Rachel Cohn's Pop Princess (S & S, 2004), Harmel's first YA novel details 16-year-old sensation Star Beck's search for her estranged father following her mother's betrayal by turning a mother-daughter bonding trip in New York City into just another publicity event. So famous that she is instantly recognizable, the teen gives herself a home haircut and dye job and, thus disguised, travels to Florida by bus and used car in hopes of meeting her father, who left the family when she was three. On her own for the first time, Star takes up residence in a cheap motel, finds a job as a waitress, and develops a relationship with the son of the restaurant's owners. Her mother/manager is a mercenary figure, while her father, whom Star believes is the only parent really interested in her as a person, turns out to be just as corrupt. The author mines familiar territory, providing readers with indulgent details of the protagonist's life as a sought-after pop singer and tempering them with the drawbacks of fame.—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 4–6—Crazy Berneetha believes that she can turn a garbage-strewn vacant lot into a garden and she exudes so much excitement that 12-year-old Kate joins her in her quest. Although the neighbors look askance at the project in the beginning, slowly they are drawn in—graffiti painter Harlan works the tiller, Dr. Arockiasamy from the clinic tends the tomatoes, grumpy Mr. Wasserman provides some manure, and the young Simpson brothers water the plants. As the garden grows, so do the friendships, but trouble lies ahead: the plot has been rezoned and will be turned into a parking garage. Although the neighbors join together, they are unsuccessful in their attempt to stop progress. Just when it looks like all is lost, firefighter Tony offers the empty lot next to the station and the whole community helps to transplant the flowers and vegetables. This short novel in verse is beautifully written with pleasing alliteration and flowing lines. Havill creates real characters with depth even though the text is minimal. Emotions ring true: readers feel Kate's anguish over the death of a cat as well as her exuberance when she realizes there's a solution to an overwhelming problem. The verse is filled with meaningful phrases ("…weeds can be anything, even beautiful flowers…") and is a joy to read. Whimsical line drawings add to the heartwarming story.—Anne Knickerbocker, formerly at Cedar Brook Elementary School, Houston, TX

Gr 8 Up—A grabber of a premise: It's England, 1650, and as the dissection of an ill-fated 22-year-old servant woman newly unstrung from the gallows begins, the participants detect the cadaver's eyes flickering. Hooper alternates perspective from Anne (the not-actually-dead corpse), who flashes back to explain how she ended up there, to that of a young intellectual attendee of the dissection, a sympathetic stutterer named Robert. Anne's story, rife with gruesome scenes of Puritan-era life (e.g., a rat-infested prison, a bloody miscarriage in a dirty privy) trumps Robert's drier account of the discourse among various distinguished intellectuals of the day, unless readers are well versed in the period's historical details (e.g., when Christopher Wren is teased for his poor poetry). The resulting back-and-forth of the two narrators makes for a poorly paced read, but the pervasive sense of injustice and indignity is vibrant enough to buoy readers through to the unexpectedly positive ending. Loosely based on a true story—hence the title, taken from broadsides published at the time—with a decidedly unromantic view of the era, this is a must-read for teens learning about Cromwell and the Puritan revolution, or for young feminists who appreciate narratives about the treatment of women in history.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library

Gr 5–7—Fourteen-year-old Alec Curtis is no screwup, but after playing a part in the accidental drowning of his cousin, his father thinks he can't do anything right. So when the chance comes to work as a galley boy on the fishing boat Britannia's day trips, Alec doesn't hesitate to get away. It's 1939 in Dover, England, and the country is on the brink of war. When Alec is not on the seas, he's noticing strange things in his hometown. Soldiers with secret missions. A German girl with a tragic past. And the government is doing something in a castle that's off-limits to civilians. With pluck and determination, Alec gets to the bottom of these mysteries, ultimately aiding in the rescue of 300,000 British soldiers stranded on the shores of Dunkirk. Hull's style is pleasantly reminiscent of children's historical fiction novels of the past. Unfortunately, statements and descriptions are often repeated, unnecessarily padding out the story. A good book but one that could certainly have been pared down.—Elizabeth Bird, New York Public Library

Gr 3–8—In this vibrant picture book, Marco, the son of a gifted chemist who mixes artists' colors "prized for their brightness and clarity," leaves home to be a junior apprentice for the young Michelangelo Buonarroti. He is greeted by Ridolfo, a slightly older apprentice with a venomous voice, who repeatedly tries to sabotage Marco's position with deliberate lies. Against his better judgment, Marco, who is fearful of being sent back to his father, falls prey time and time again. Finally, Ridolfo's malicious deceit is discovered, and he is sent away for a short time. Though he returns apologetic, he is soon back to his treacherous tricks. When the artist is summoned to Rome by the Pope to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, he will take only one apprentice along, and Marco is determined to be the one. The emerald green he mixes from a family recipe finally pleases the demanding man, who presses the boy for the ingredients. Marco refuses to betray his father's secrets, and, to his surprise, he is chosen; in the end, it is his honorable character that wins him the prized position. The watercolor illustrations effectively portray Michelangelo as the fierce, evil-tempered monster he is described to be; one intense, full-page close-up reveals a madman working through the night wearing a hat with a brim full of candles. An author's note provides more information, though this book offers more about character than about the artist and his works.—Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools

Gr 4–8—Pitchforks, daggers, mace, and chain—these are the weapons of choice in a warring animal realm. Lord Asheye of the fortress mountain Salamandastron seeks a new Badger Lord, one who has been prophesized to shun armor and a sword. This young badger is possessed by the deadly Bloodwrath, a ferocious rage that turns him into an unstoppable killing force. Mad Maudie, a haremaiden of the Long Patrol, is ordered to find him and bring him back to Salamandastron. She sets out to secure her charge but realizes that destiny has carved a different path. A group of vicious Brownrats, dressed like cannibals, plot to storm Redwall Abbey. Instead, they encounter the seafaring vermin crew of the Bludgullet led by the infamous fox, Vizka Longtooth, intent on the same mission. In the midst of the turmoil, the young badger warrior emerges and changes the course of events. Dialogue written as accented speech is challenging to decipher but ultimately adds to the character development. Fans of the series will not be disappointed as the historical events of Mossflower Wood, Salamandastron, and Redwall Abbey continue to evolve. Story lines from previous books are mentioned briefly, leaving readers with a few unanswered questions, but not at the expense of their appreciation of this heroic tale.—Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

Gr 4–8—Shawn, whose mother died in childbirth and whose father, Russ, is a kind and conscientious Illinois farmer, is kidnapped at six months of age by Puddlejumpers, 11-inch-tall elflike creatures who live in an underground cavern complex and recognize Shawn as their "Rainmaker." Shawn is happily raised by them until age three when, chased by evil Troggs, he is lost and eventually left on the doorstep of the Lakeside Home for Boys near Wrigley Field in Chicago. Renamed Ernie Banks and in constant conflict with the cruel administrator, he is, at age 12, unknowingly farmed out to—you guessed it—Russ. Shawn/Ernie arrives to find drought and the evil Holsapple family ravaging the region and threatening his father. Their stinking oil wells pollute the landscape. Following well-established formula, Shawn/Ernie and his new friend Joey venture underground where they rediscover his roots. Events culminate in a Big Battle. Consumed by Hagdemonia, an enormous female oil refinery—sort of an anti-Mother Earth, Ernie dies, but because he still possesses the critical blue acorn crystal...you can imagine the rest, as this seemingly made-for-TV story ends happily, conveying that evil can be defeated by hard work, pluck, and determination. Reminiscent of T. A. Barron's The Ancient One (Philomel, 1992) in its combination of realistic initial setting and fantastical invented world of small humanoid creatures, this is a fast-paced, adventurous fantasy with interesting characters and an explicitly green environmental theme.—Joel Shoemaker, Southeast Junior High School, Iowa City, IA

Gr 9 Up—Tyler, a senior in a private high school, is planning for college. His twin brother, Trevor, has just been released from reform school and insists that Tyler's environment made his academic success possible. After their parents' deaths two years earlier, the boys were taken in by different family members and found themselves living in different economic and social situations. To prove him wrong, Tyler agrees to switch places for two weeks in summer school. Along the way, he learns that his choices to be shy and interested in school have sheltered him from the harsh life that Trevor has experienced. Tyler finds himself at a wild party, trying to appease a drug dealer, and finally fighting for his life. It's an interesting premise, but the dialogue is stilted and cumbersome and the pace of the story is meandering and then shockingly fast. But most problematic are the author's didactic interruptions with musings on education and affirmative action. Coe Booth's Tyrell (Scholastic, 2006) is a much better choice for libraries looking for boy-friendly urban fiction.—Tasha Saecker, Menasha Public Library, WI

Gr 6–8—Rits, 13, is left with an uncle he barely knows when his father leaves the country with a new girlfriend and his mother institutionalizes herself after her marriage disintegrates. Rits makes good use of his new journal to explore his feelings and experiences, and he hopes to get into movie-making with the video camera that was also a birthday gift. A summer spent watching his unemployed uncle enjoy his fishing magazines, television, and weekly trips to the bar looms dreadfully until Rits meets Rita, who soon has him involved with her father, her extended family, and her friends. He is a plucky and likable character who demonstrates resourcefulness in improving his situation through cooking decent meals, getting his uncle out of the house on a blind date and a job hunt, learning about video techniques, and connecting with others. Self-talk in his journal and growing independence seem to contribute to Rits's ability to get by, even with parents who have let him down and struggle themselves. The boy's life is unlikely to hold widespread fascination for most readers due to mediocre storytelling and insufficient action, but those with a personal stake in surviving a parental breakup or breakdown will certainly empathize with the stomach pains and "sagging brain" that can accompany children's powerlessness in such situations. Those in need of targeted bibliotherapy might benefit from one boy's determination to deal with challenges.—Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA

Gr 7–10—Brittany plays first cello in the orchestra while her friend Amanda outshines her from center stage. Amanda has the looks, gets the guys, and is the most talented actress in school. Guys only talk to Brittany for a chance to date her friend. So, Brittany is stunned to learn that the play's leading man, Kyle, is in love with her and not with Amanda. Then the girls begin to receive anonymous notes threatening to sabotage the play. Props disappear, costumes fall apart mid-scene, stage wine is laced with Tabasco sauce, and Brittany and Amanda must uncover the saboteur before someone gets hurt. The story line bounces between a dull romance and a predictable and linear mystery. Brittany is a flimsy character, one moment smart, confident, and strong, the next unnecessarily self-conscious, jealous, and irrational. Interactions with side characters do nothing to flesh out her true self, and her upgrade from orchestra nerd to popularity queen is far too easy. Kyle's unabashed expressions of love are unrealistic for a high school boy. Unbelievably, Amanda seems surprised and hurt by the notion that guys only want to date her for one reason, and the sober cover art fails to portray the flighty mood of the book.—Richelle Roth, Wilmington Public Library, OH

Gr 7 Up—What could induce Karl, a certified genius on track to be his high school valedictorian, to cheat? How about an unlikely stew of half-truths and deceptions cooked up by a confederacy of the school's cool crowd, heated to a low boil by the attentions of the beautiful Cara, and spiced by a taste for putting the morally bankrupt assistant principal Klimchock in his place? After Karl notices that Blaine, whom he heretofore thought of as Mr. Clean, is using his phone's text capability to cheat, Karl is recruited to join Blaine's disparate group of fellow cheaters who claim they just want to screw the system. The slimy Klimchock, having caught wind of the plan, throws down his own high-tech gauntlet, using hidden video cameras to ensnare Karl, to whom he offers an unlikely deal: he'll fake records for the teen's college applications if Karl will rat out his "friends." Meanwhile, the rotten stink gets worse—a local realtor/mayoral candidate is scheming to encourage more cheating because high SAT scores translate into high real-estate prices. Hopefully readers, perhaps attracted by the eye-catching cover, will persist past the stereotypes to enjoy Laser's heartwarming ending, as despite some loose ends and fuzzy logic, there are some funny, interesting characters to enjoy in this contemporary satire.—Joel Shoemaker, Southeast Junior High School, Iowa City, IA

Gr 4–7—Mississippi Beaumont ("Mibs" for short) simply cannot wait for her 13th birthday. There's the allure of finally becoming a teenager, of course, but in the Beaumont family, 13 is when family members get their "savvy," or unworldly power. For Mibs's older brother Fish, it's control over the elements, and for her mother it's the ability to do everything perfectly. Unfortunately, Mibs's excitement is cut short when her father is injured in a car accident. Convinced that her new powers will be able to save her Poppa, she and some new friends climb aboard a bus toting pink bibles on her birthday, in the hopes of getting to the hospital. Instead they find themselves headed in the wrong direction with the cops looking for them, Mibs's powerful brother seriously angry, and the son of a preacher man she has a crush on coming dangerously close to figuring out the Beaumonts' secret. Mibs's real savvy isn't what she expected, and neither are her traveling companions. Though the story never lives up to the brilliance of its opening chapter, Law has a feel for characters and language that is matched by few. With its delightful premise and lively adventure, this book will please a wide variety of audiences, not just fantasy fans. Definitely an author to watch.—Elizabeth Bird, New York Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Jesse, Vicks, and Mel spontaneously decide to take a road trip to visit Vicks's boyfriend who is in college in Miami. Jesse and Vicks have been friends for ages, but now there is a wedge between them. Jesse is a devout Christian who frowns on drinking and premarital sex; her unmarried mother calls her Goody Two-shoes and Vicks is getting fed up with her friend's "holier than thou" attitude. In fact, this is a large focal point of the story, and readers are sometimes left to wonder why they are still best friends, and when and how Jesse became so religious. Mel is a wealthy newcomer who has offered to pay for the trip, hoping to be accepted by them. Once they get into the car, infighting (and outright fighting) takes over. Still, the girls have wild adventures, including a party at which Vicks and Mel get drunk, a hurricane, a fistfight, and a run-in with a live alligator in order to save a baby duckling. Through confrontations with one another, with boys, and with family, the teens work through the issues they are facing and learn the importance of relying on friends. The presentation of three voices is effective since they come from three different authors, giving readers a variety of perspectives to consider. Teens are left with a satisfying conclusion that ties up most ends and creates hope for those issues left unresolved.—Emily Garrett Cassady, North Garland High School, TX

Gr 7–10—Freshman Haley Patterson loves her job on the school newspaper, but when she writes about a wild party (drinking, no adults) thrown by Camilla Quinn, a Queen Bee bully, she immediately regrets it. Camilla nicknames her "Haley the Ho" and turns everyone, including Haley's best friends, against her. Haley even receives a nasty email from Camilla suggesting that she commit suicide on a certain day, and she becomes the victim of cruel jokes. She makes it through the school year, but never gathers the courage to confront her nemesis or to tell anyone about the abuse. Spending the summer with her aunt, Haley takes a job at a pool. Initially she has a hard time trusting the other teens who work there, but she begins to relax. Despite their warnings, however, she develops a crush on a handsome lifeguard. With the help of her aunt and new friends, Haley develops the courage to stand up to Camilla when school begins. Despite the serious subject matter, Diva reads more like Meg Cabot than "problem novel." The book's chick-lit cover and tone will make it attractive and accessible to girls. A strong message and a sympathetic main character make this book worthy of reading and discussion in book groups.—Stephanie L. Petruso, Anne Arundel County Public Library, Odenton, MD

Gr 9 Up—Rose's grandmother is dying, prompting the high school grad and current waitress to hit the road in her beat-up old van, with Mum in the passenger seat. Rose is less than thrilled, having successfully avoided her family for the past year. A stellar student, she was set to study law and follow in her father's footsteps, but when he left her mother, everything fell apart. McCarthy alternates chapters of the trip, during which they pick up a hitchhiker, with flashbacks to the previous year: Rose's parents' divorce, the teen's crush on Nat, and her friend Zoe's fling with him. The book steadily builds up to the revelation that Rose was seduced by Zoe's father, and thus the collapse of the young women's friendship. Still, this is a story about redemption. While readers glimpse Zoe through the flashbacks, they finally meet her when Rose visits her in the hospital; the cancer she fought as a child has returned. Their reconciliation is mirrored elsewhere; Rose's parents learn to be civil around one another, and the hitchhiker they pick up returns to his young son, whom he hasn't seen in two years. While readers may be baffled by some of the Aussie terms and the fact that Christmas takes place in the summer, these are hurdles they can easily overcome, all the while rooting for likable and complicated Rose. There is some raw language and mature content, but this novel should be an easy sell to fans of authors like Deb Caletti.—Jennifer Barnes, Homewood Library, IL

Gr 5–7—This final installment in the Casson family saga finds 11-year-old Rose feeling deserted and confused. Saffy and Indigo are busy with their teenage pursuits, Caddy has been missing for nearly a year since her almost-wedding to not-Michael in Caddy Ever After (S & S, 2006), Mummy is spending all her time in her artist's shed to avoid spreading germs from a bad case of bronchitis, and Daddy Bill is still living in London, finding the peace and quiet he can't get at home. To make matters worse, Rose does not like Mr. Spencer, "the new irritated teacher of class 6." She is having a difficult time with reading, is deeply disappointed when no one has time to shop for a Christmas tree, and is affronted by the ubiquitous presence of Indigo's displaced friend, David, and his problematic drum set. However, her spunky friend Kiran is unfailingly loyal and supportive, and, when their schoolmate Molly proposes an extension of their class trip to the zoo into a secret overnight stay, the two agree to go along. What results from this mischievous, if dangerous, escapade are some surprising resolutions to Rose's disenchantment with school and home, and even a new configuration of the family. McKay is at the top of her game with this poignant, hilarious account, narrated in diary form by irrepressible, artistic Rose. Readers will empathize with her frustrations, secretly admire her and Kiran's sassiness, and cheer as everything falls nicely, and unexpectedly, into place.—Marie Orlando, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY

Gr 6–9—Zanna, 14, thinks she should be strolling the boulevards of Paris, gallery hopping, and clothes shopping with her artist mother. Instead, she is sent to spend the summer with her glaciologist father and twin, Martin, whom she hasn't seen since their parents split up four years earlier. Last Chance Pass, Alberta, is home to wolves, bears, and the compelling beauty of the wilderness, but not much else. When Martin finds an injured puppy, Zanna reluctantly looks after him and names him Paris. Tyler, the 17-year-old park ranger, insists that the animal is a wolf cub whose only chance for survival is at a local wolf retreat. Zanna, a vegetarian, is horrified when Paris hunts baby rabbits, and she capitulates. Martin is the bright spot in Zanna's dismal summer, but then he goes missing during a storm. She enlists Tyler's help and rescues a mauled Paris from the retreat to search for him. Other rescue efforts have been hampered by darkness and rough weather, but Zanna is counting on her twin intuition, Paris, and Tyler's knowledge of the area. The story's sharp pacing and very human characters are engaging, and McNicoll deftly portrays the complexities of family and relationships. Readers will identify with the twins' evolving dramas.—Roxanne Myers Spencer, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green

Gr 4–8—These stories range from lighthearted to serious, with some focused more on character and family drama than sports action. Though the selections are brief, each one is characterized by a distinct perspective. In Jerry Spinelli's "The Great Gus Zernial and Me," an orphan is awestruck during his first visit to a big league ballgame. Frank Portman microscopically details the frantic internal monologue of a hapless outfielder in "Mark Pang and the Impossible Square." Ron Koertge's two-person play, "Riding the Pine," is compelling, while Sue Corbett's "Fall Ball" and John H. Ritter's "Baseball Crazy" delightfully blend sports action and insight. The collection includes both well-known writers (such as Joseph Bruchac) and lesser-known names (including Paul Acampora and David Rice); teachers and librarians can use these excellent stories as a lead-in to the authors' longer works. This enjoyable collection should appeal to a wide audience, including reluctant readers, and could also be an excellent read-aloud.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 7 Up—Graphic-art representations of different kinds of music work to mixed appeal and effect in this nearly wordless import. An elegant square design and rich color reproduction engage the eye from the title page and first wordless spread: a man lifts the gate to open a café, and the first customers stroll in. The book's conceit then commences in a series of stand-alone double pages, in which a customer approaches the jukebox and is transported into a visual representation of the type of music he or she has chosen, with its name incorporated into the illustration; for example, a large man becomes a perspiring and tuxedoed "opera" singer, his open mouth forming the "o." Merveille's intriguing idea is skillfully articulated, but many of the choices seem odd, especially for a young audience. In one spread, a child chooses chamber music and then appears as a cherub playing the harp of the "c." This may appeal most to adult nostalgia. Most types of music depicted are broad (hip-hop, blues, country), but some oddballs are thrown in: Mozart, Hawaiian music, and "Boom" (ostensibly marching band music, from the picture). Some particularly tongue-in-cheek spreads mark this truly for a mature audience: Chet Baker (an adult reader assumes) smoking by a highway with the text "Let's Get Lost"; or the final endpaper showing the café after closing with its rodent clientele, "The Rat Pack," performing. The overall effect is one of an advertising portfolio; recommend it only for an older audience as a study in illustration and design.—Nina Lindsay, Oakland Public Library, CA

Gr 7–10—Twins Sydney and Lauren lead charmed lives in Buckhead, a tony section of Atlanta. Their stepfather, Altimus, is wealthy, and they attend a posh private school for the city's wealthiest blacks. What could be better? They buy the fliest clothes, drive the most expensive cars, and are school leaders. Still, their lives are not idyllic. Their mother is a shrew, they constantly fight, and their birth father just got out of jail. This fast, fun read will delight fans of Cecily von Ziegesar's "Gossip Girl" and Lisi Harrison's "Clique" series (both Little, Brown). The plot is rather convoluted, with a number of story lines, none of which is truly resolved at the end. Yes, the twins do realize that they really only have one another, and Sydney jettisons her faithless boyfriend, but a brutal murder remains unsolved, their father is still odd man out, and Altimus still rules the hood. It would appear, however, that the loose ends will have to wait for the second book in the series.—Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 3–6—Amanda MacLeish begins a history project at school just when things are falling apart at home. The story opens with a tense game of Monopoly at the MacLeish house—who knew that Boardwalk could so effectively reveal marital problems? Soon after, Amanda's parents separate, and she can't bring herself to share the news with her best friend. Instead, she pours her heart into a school assignment, an imagined Civil War diary of 10-year-old "Polly," whose brothers are fighting on opposite sides. The emotional tone of the diary reflects Amanda's adjustment to the permanence of the split. The child's observations and reactions seem spot-on for a fifth grader. She tries diligently to do the right thing, make sense of adult behavior, and come to terms with her new family arrangement. She finds comfort in the rhythm of the school day with a teacher who models kindness. Her parents awkwardly but diligently address the impact of their decision on their children. Although the story seems more workaday than elegant, it addresses many issues of relevance in a straightforward style and provides age-appropriate food for thought.—Pat Leach, Lincoln City Libraries, NE

Gr 8 Up—It's 1944, and 18-year-old Byrd Thompson, an Iowa farm girl, dreams of becoming an Air Force pilot. Her mother and sister are against it because her father died eight years earlier in a small plane crash. Having secretly earned her pilot's license and scraped together some money by giving lessons, Byrd leaves home to join the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, TX. There she is assigned to Bay 4 with spunky Sadie; Southern-belle Cornelia; Chinese-American Opal; Deirdre (whose brother is a POW); and Jean, who fails the first flight test and is sent home. Learning to fly "the Army way" is not easy, but Byrd is determined, and grouchy Major Pickett is a demanding teacher. More motivation is provided by handsome Lieutenant Andrews and the encouragement of Byrd's friends. The prose is sometimes awkward, and Byrd's reunion with her family is abrupt and anticlimactic, but her story is compelling, and it sheds light on a little-known piece of American history. It should serve as an inspiration to anyone who dreams of doing the unconventional.—Laurie Slagenwhite, Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MI

Gr 4–6—Set in Venice in the 1960s, this tale intertwines a famous violinist's boyhood reminiscences with the story of his parents' Holocaust experiences. Usually reticent Paolo Levi gives an interview to a young reporter and the story's narrator, answering the long-standing "Mozart question." When he was nine, Paolo badgered his mother into showing him the violin that was hidden away atop a cupboard, and she made him promise not to tell his father. The boy knew that Papa had once been a violinist, though he'd never heard him play. Soon after, Paolo became mesmerized by the music of Benjamin, a street performer. Longing to play himself, he secretly took the violin to Benjamin, who repaired it and gave him lessons. When the youngster finally confessed to his parents, they shared their own secrets: during World War II, the three adults were in the same concentration camp where they were forced to play music—mostly Mozart—for incoming prisoners to divert them from the horror that awaited them. After liberation, Papa vowed to never play again; however, Mama and Benjamin felt that music had saved them. When Paolo's parents heard how talented he was, they forgave his secrecy. The adult Paolo refused to play Mozart until after his father's death. Morpurgo breathes life into this touching tale, which is conveyed with compassion and honesty. Foreman's watercolors enrich the narrative, capturing both Venice's beauty and the camp's misery. This fine selection offers another view of the Holocaust and music's potential to heal.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 5–8—Being half-Chinese and half-Irish never bothered Maeve Lee Kwong much. A lot of Australians have mixed heritages, and she considers herself fully Aussie. Then her mother dies in a car accident, and Maeve no longer knows who she is, or where she belongs. Should she continue to live with her stepdad, who never really adopted her, and half brother, whom she adores? With her Chinese grandparents, whom she hardly knows? Should she attend her private school as a boarding student, and hang out with her friends? Or should she try to find her birth father, who doesn't even know she exists? In a believable way, Murray allows Maeve to try all of these scenarios in her quest for identity and a place to call home, including meeting her artist father in Dublin. This book has a lot going for it, including short and highly varied scenes that propel the story forward at a brisk pace. With settings in Australia, Hong Kong, and Ireland, the descriptions are lush and appealing. Readers will relate to 13-year-old Maeve's pursuit of typical teen interests such as dance, drama, shopping, travel, and a first kiss. They will also be inspired by her courage in the face of tragedy, and be moved by the story's many wise and tender moments. An excellent purchase for all libraries.—Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 6–9—Fifteen-year-old Sabine lives a life of luxury with her wealthy Indian family in Kampala, Uganda. Then Idi Amin comes to power and things change quickly. All British Indians are expelled from the country. Sabine's father thinks they will be safe because they are Ugandan citizens, but they soon discover that they are in serious danger. Sabine's beloved uncle disappears, and her friend Zena, who is African, turns against her because Zena's military uncle has convinced her that the Ugandan Indians have exploited the African populace. The book effectively portrays the rising terror and violence in 1972 as Sabine struggles to deal with a world falling apart. Prejudices are clearly delineated, and the thin veneer of civilization crumbles as the chilling background beat of the radio relentlessly counts down the days left before all British Indians must leave the country. Sabine is a mature, intelligent character amid the chaos, and the political situation is well realized through her eyes. Secondary characters add depth to the story, and Sabine's star-crossed crush on Zena's older brother makes her a realistic adolescent. Nail-biting suspense is maintained to the end as Sabine must make the agonizing decision to leave her grandfather behind to save the rest of the family. Excellent historical fiction about a timely yet sadly universal subject.—Quinby Frank, Green Acres School, Rockville, MD

Gr 9 Up—Alice, now in the end of her junior year in high school, navigates through her friend Pamela's pregnancy scare, a promotion at the school newspaper, and prom. On top of all this, she is considering getting back together with her ex-boyfriend and future prom date, Patrick. But first, she has to figure out her feelings about his overachieving personality, which tends to leave her on the back burner. The different issues and events that Alice goes through seem realistic and believable. However, her emotional reactions are harder to accept. In general, she seems to be more mature, selfless, and rational than most teens. Part of this is due to the fact that Naylor lays out events without getting too deeply into Alice's character in this addition to the series. Also, the forced dialogue tends to drag the book down. Loyal fans of the series will get the most out of this book as they will be more connected to Alice and her friends and anxious to see what happens to them.—Jessie Spalding, Queen Creek Branch Library, AZ

Gr 8–10—Sophomore Libby Fawcett decides to forgo a traditional journal and use a password-protected online blog to pour out her heart instead. She blogs her thoughts about her friend Keisha; her cousin Roger; her crush, Seth; and her tormentor, Angel. In spite of a chemistry-class disaster in which she catches her hair on fire, Seth asks her to tutor him, and she jumps at the chance. Meanwhile, romance seems to be in the air; Roger is playing secret admirer to win Keisha's love, and Libby's mother is dating a lawyer who turns out to be—gasp!—Angel's father. Of course, Angel discovers Libby's password and posts her blog entries all over the school, threatening her friendships and her budding relationship with Seth. The first-person narration inevitably leaves character motivation unexplored: If Seth is such a nice guy that he takes his grandmother dancing, why is he best friends with Angel? Why does Angel feel the need to torment Libby? Why does Libby's mom keep her boyfriend a secret for seven months? Nevertheless, short chapters and plenty of drama make this a snappy, breezy read for girls who long for the boy next door-or at the next locker-to notice them.—Laurie Slagenwhite, Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MI

Gr 9–11—Parker makes his second foray into YA literature with this tale of a 15-year-old aspiring boxer trying to solve the murder of one of his classmates, deemed a suicide by the authorities. As in his adult "Spenser" books, the question is not so much who committed the crime as how the protagonist will catch him (it is apparent pretty early on who the bad guys are). Terry Novak battles a group of powerful, evil individuals with only his wits, toughness, and a few loyal friends to help him. He has a personal code that requires him to avenge wrongdoing against innocents and will use violence only when forced to. In many ways it is Terry himself rather than the solving of the crime that is the main focus of the novel: haltingly, and often inarticulately, he begins to explore what it means to live honorably, with moral purpose. In this he is aided by George, the wise, elderly black man who is teaching him to fight, and by Abby, the sassy beauty whom Terry hopes to make his girlfriend. As in any Parker novel, the dialogue is delightful. Character is revealed in a word, a phrase, or sometimes even a gesture. (Has any writer ever conveyed more meaning through a shrug?) While some may object that the fight scenes are a little too graphic or the resolution a little too neat, few could question either the quality of the writing or the book's undeniable appeal to teen readers.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT

Gr 8 Up—Seventeen-year-old Jenna Fox awakens after more than a year in a coma to find herself in a life—and a body—that she doesn't quite recognize. Her parents tell her that she's been in an accident, but much of her past identity and current situation remain a mystery to her: Why has her family abruptly moved from Boston to California, leaving all of her personal belongings behind? Why does her grandmother react to her with such antipathy? Why have her parents instructed her to make sure not to tell anyone about the circumstances of their move? And why can Jenna recite whole passages of Thoreau's Walden, but remember next to nothing of her own past? As she watches family videos of her childhood, strange memories begin to surface, and she slowly realizes that a terrible secret is being kept from her. Pearson has constructed a gripping, believable vision of a future dystopia. She explores issues surrounding scientific ethics, the power of science, and the nature of the soul with grace, poetry, and an apt sense of drama and suspense. Some of the supporting characters are a bit underdeveloped, but Jenna herself is complex, interesting, and very real. This is a beautiful blend of science fiction, medical thriller, and teen-relationship novel that melds into a seamless whole that will please fans of all three genres.—Meredith Robbins, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School, New York City

Gr 10 Up—Joseph Oliver Kuhl, a college freshman studying to become a private investigator, submits a term paper (in the form of this book) for his criminal-justice class in which he details, down to the footnotes, how he solved the mystery of who is setting a string of fires in his hometown of Balona, CA. Joseph unravels the mystery, mostly by spying on family, friends, and townspeople. As far as term papers go, this one might be marked down for being a bit long-winded; Joseph takes plenty of time to explain the intricacies of the townspeople and his large and complicated family. Though hilarious at first, these details bog down the plot as the story tries to move forward, making it difficult for teens to get hooked. However, the characters are fascinating, especially Joseph, a determined, cocky, annoying, and often-offensive young man. Auxiliary characters are colorful as well, each wildly entertaining and playing a part in the mystery. Peralta's style of dry, sarcastic humor will definitely pique the interest of more sophisticated teens. This title is for mature readers who are ready to embrace a complex blend of humor and mystery.—Emily Anne Valente, New York Public Library

Gr 5–8—When Hannah Pritchard's family is killed on their farm by British soldiers and Iroquois Indians, the 14-year-old narrowly escapes to Boston. There, Revolutionary War fever is high, and Hannah vows to avenge the death of her relatives. She eventually makes her way to a privateer ship, where she disguises herself as a boy and works in the kitchen. She has many high-seas adventures while helping to steal loot in the name of the patriots' cause, all the while struggling to keep her identity a secret. This simple, straightforward tale is propelled by a fast-moving plot. Historical and nautical terms are explained well, and a note rounds out the text. This novel is more accessible than L. A. Meyer's more mature and lengthier "Bloody Jack" series (Harcourt).—Kristen Oravec, Stephen S. Wise Elementary School, Los Angeles

Gr 5–9—The battle starts, literally, with an explosion and doesn't let up. After Percy destroys the high school band room battling monsters called empousai who have taken on the form of cheerleaders, he has to hide out at Camp Half-Blood. There, Grover's searcher's license is going to be revoked unless he can find the god Pan in seven days. An entrance to the Labyrinth has been discovered, which means that Luke, the half-blood turned bad, can bypass the magical protections and invade the camp. Annabeth insists that she must follow a quest to locate Daedalus's workshop before Luke does. Percy is disturbed by visions of Nico, the son of Hades, who is summoning forth the spirits of the dead with McDonalds Happy Meals. Percy, Grover, and Percy's Cyclops half-brother follow Annabeth into the maze not knowing if they will ever find their way out. Riordan cleverly personifies the Labyrinth as a sort of living organism that changes at will, and that traverses the whole of the United States. Kids will devour Riordan's subtle satire of their world, such as a Sphinx in the Labyrinth whose questions hilariously parody standardized testing. The secret of Pan is revealed with a bittersweet outcome that also sends an eco-friendly message. Like many series, the "Percy Jackson" books are beginning to show the strain of familiarity and repetition. However, the overarching story line remains compelling, and the cliff-hanger ending will leave readers breathless in anticipation of the fifth and final volume.—Tim Wadham, Maricopa County Library District, Phoenix, AZ

Gr 10 Up—Eighteen-year-old Dane is furious—with his father, his ex-girlfriend, his no-nonsense physical therapist, and most of all with the disease that has robbed him of the use of every muscle in his body, Guillain-Barré syndrome. In a rehabilitation hospital in Florida, far away from his family and his career as a champion high school cross-country skier in upstate New York, Dane slowly relearns how to feed himself, turn the pages of a book, and perform basic physical functions, and he is forced to consider the possibility that he won't fully recover. Punctuating his fear of this fate-worse-than-death scenario are his encounters with the daughter of a man vegetating in a room across the hall, four years after a brain injury. In flashbacks, Dane recounts his relationship with his former girlfriend, whose love he has never been able to fully return (until now?). Like Chris Crutcher's characters, disgruntled Dane guards his emotions carefully, allowing only his nature-loving occupational therapist to penetrate his anger. Roe's descriptions of wintry New York are stunningly beautiful. The protagonist's frustrations about feeling out of control will resonate with teens, and the context of neurological rehab presents an original and challenging read. As Dane and his friends are sexually active, use strong language, and drink at parties, this novel is best suited for an older audience.—Nora G. Murphy, Los Angeles Academy Middle School

Gr 4–6—It's halfway through the school year and sixth-grader Sarah doesn't have much going for her. She's plain, overweight, and friendless. Her father has abandoned the family for a blond tennis instructor and left Vermont for a life in sunny California. Sarah's mother is preoccupied with her hippie boyfriend, Jonah, the widowed father of five-year-old George. When Sarah receives a journal for Christmas, she uses it to make lists of things in her life, believing that they "are a way of putting your thoughts in order." The resulting narrative consists of numerous lists linked by slim journal entries. As the book progresses, Sarah comes to accept Jonah, becomes friendly with geeky Horace Zimmerman, enjoys performing as Persephone in a school play, and even comes to terms with her father's departure. Happy endings continue when, unbelievably, Horace disrupts the play to speak out against world hunger, and parents and teachers greet his action with enthusiasm. This book doesn't work as well as other titles written as personal journals, such as Marissa Moss's "Amelia's Notebooks" (S & S). The story line is thin, the lists are boring, and the story feels a bit dated.—Jane Barrer, PS/IS 111 Adolph S. Ochs School, New York City