Grades 5 & Up

Gr 6–9—Sabine Durand, 16, knows that she should be preoccupied with balls, attending the opera, and attracting a suitable match. But lately she's had other things on her mind—things like free will, the ability to make choices and determine the course of one's fate, and equality regardless of class differences. Things that she's read in Voltaire's Candide and heard Mr. Franklin say about the uprising of the colonies across the sea. These thoughts are not appropriate for a girl of Sabine's aristocratic station in 1776 Paris, and they make her feel even more distant from her family and best friend. And now that she's started having these revolutionary thoughts, Sabine wonders if she'll ever be content again. Written in a first-person narrative, this historical novel is also a coming-of-age story with a hint of romance. Sabine is likable from the beginning, and her transition from silly aristocrat to thoughtful young woman is gradual and realistic. A few secondary characters are also well developed, but the emphasis is on Sabine, so most stay in the background. Recommend this novel to fans of Ann Rinaldi and those not ready for Anna Godbersen's "Luxe" (HarperCollins).—Heather E. Miller, Homewood Public Library, AL

Gr 5–9—Blue is scrawny and nice. He is harassed by a big, dumb, smoking boy named Hopper. Blue's father died suddenly when he was younger. To cope, he wrote a comic book about a feral boy who gets to express his anger and loneliness through violent revenge, something Blue can't or won't do. Then parts of the story merge with real life. The characters' conversations and relationships are believable. The story is so thin, though, that there's little chance to care about the players. McKean's tonal watercolor panels, which illustrate roughly half of the pages, are full of palpable rage—gorgeous, frightening, and highly effective images. They set an ornery, mysterious mood that Almond's lackluster story never quite matches. Though the prose is clear and simple, the pace, in an attempt to build mystery, is too methodical for so obvious an allegory. The phonetic spelling in Blue's comic indicates a child much younger than the novel's somewhat confusing chronology indicates.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Ruby, nearly 18, is an imaginative young woman in present-day New Orleans. Her unique way of expressing herself sets her apart from others. She is one with nature, speaking to the plants and animals around her. She named the trees "Rooted People" and the birds "Flying People." A butterfly has told her of a coming "Big Spin." Ruby imagines her life prior to coming to live with her grandmother, Mammaloose, but the woman has no patience for Ruby's stories. The teen wonders if the memories of her mother and father and two sisters are real or just in her mind. When Hurricane Katrina hits and all seems lost, Mammaloose begins to reveal secrets that she has kept from Ruby for years. In the midst of the ruin of the city, Ruby's "imagine," her distinctive way of looking at the world, gives hope to survivors as they begin to rebuild their lives. With a delightful cast of characters and evocative descriptions of places and events, this is an affecting story.—Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD

Gr 9 Up—Ardelius follows the frenetic course of an all-consuming teen love affair from first chance sexual encounter to inevitable atrophy as everyday insecurities encroach. Told through short conversational passages, the narrative is comprised largely of dialogue between Morris and Betty and glimpses into the couple's quiet, intimate moments. Such scenes are interspersed with their inner thoughts (mainly his) and snapshots of Morris's mother and father, who are respectively flighty and manic-depressive. It is these parental weaknesses that feed Morris's own fears about the attraction between two people and indirectly spur the downward trajectory of the relationship. Ardelius's prose, translated from Swedish, poetically bottles the universal delirium and unsustainable pace of first love. American readers expecting a typical teen love story, however, will not find it here. Certain aspects of the story, such as the nonchalance of Betty's mom when her daughter's boyfriend walks downstairs in the morning for breakfast, have a distinctly European ring. This sophistication, both in style and content, may alienate some, but will speak volumes to more worldly teenagers.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 8 Up—Chloe, 14, and Shana, 15, live with their dad and four-year-old adopted brother, Micah, above their father's mortuary business in Portland, ME. Their mom, once an up-and-coming artist, has been hospitalized for a year. Shana's involvement in the local Goth scene, which Chloe doesn't understand, provides candid, grim humor and a nasty surprise. Chloe's obsession with their mother's last painting and reluctance to enter her abandoned studio worry Shana, who knows more than she is willing to tell. Dad is getting more and more vague and unreliable, and Micah has fears and needs that his sisters try their best to cope with. Tensions rise as Dad misses a visit from the dreaded social worker and spends more and more time on the roof, chain-smoking and getting drunk. If Mom can't come home and if Dad doesn't get it together—soon—they might lose Micah. Chloe and Shana share the narration of this shadowy story told in alternating chapters. Initially, the sisters' different personalities are clearly apparent. As they desperately seek a solution for their dissolving family and become enmeshed in their own struggles, their voices become less unique. Girls may enjoy the drama and angst, but the doom and gloom permeate so heavily that it is sometimes difficult to distinguish any real flickers of light at the end of this dark family tunnel.—Roxanne Myers Spencer, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green

Gr 4–6—The middle child between two sets of twins, Miri often feels left out, overlooked, and unremarkable. When her family moves to a new home, she feels lonelier than ever. She soon learns from an elderly neighbor of a legend surrounding her house. According to town lore, many years earlier a thief left buried treasure somewhere on her property. Quickly, the siblings race to uncover it. Soon after the hunt begins she notices a small piece of glass taped to her wall. Looking through the lens, Miri finds herself still in her room, but in 1935. It is here that she meets Molly, a girl badly in need of help to escape her abusive situation, but Miri accidentally returns to her own time before she can save her new friend. Alone again, she must figure out how to rescue Molly before it's too late. This fast-paced story will delight anyone who has ever believed in magic, longed for a twin, or imagined the secrets their home might hold. The characters and setting are realistic despite the subtle elements of magic and time travel. Barrows conjures up a delightful tale brimming with mystery, magic, and adventure that will surely enchant readers everywhere.—Laura Butler, Mount Laurel Library, NJ

Gr 5–9—This second book in the trilogy continues where Shield of Stars (S & S, 2007) left off, and it will be difficult for readers to follow if they're not familiar with the complex connections and tumultuous events in that book. Arisa takes center stage here, and her mother, the Falcon, the notorious bandit-thief turned commander of the army and navy of Deorthas, asks her daughter to befriend the prince and to find the Sword of Waters. With the help of her friend Weasel, Arisa sets about both of these tasks with mixed results. It is clear that there is more to Prince Edoran than meets the eye. His attitude and personality leave Arisa wondering if he's a conceited jerk or simply misunderstood. Her mother's fragile truce with the regent is another layer that confuses Arisa, and the political maneuverings and alliances are numerous. While searching for the sword, Arisa discovers a murder and a treacherous plot, and learns that things are not as they seem. Fans of the first book will be captivated as the layers begin to unfurl and plots and deceptions are exposed that could not have been predicted.—Genevieve Gallagher, Buford Middle School, Charlottesville, VA

Gr 7 Up—Bianca, 16, has been offered a scholarship to a century-old school founded on the site of a convent and orphanage that was embroiled in a famous witch trial in the 17th century. On the evening of her orientation, she is hounded by the Wolves, a student club of mysterious origin. As Bianca tries to escape the menacing students, she stumbles upon the body of a dead woman, and thus starts an investigation that leads her into the school's dark past. With the aid of her roommate's boyfriend, a former reform-school attendee with extraordinary breaking-and-entering skills, and a university student who is also hounded by the Wolves, Bianca sorts through clues and historical documents with an almost psychic ability. Unfortunately, there are so many elements, characters, and plot threads that readers will find themselves flipping back to see if they missed something while trying to keep up with the story. On the other hand, the supernatural elements are masterfully subtle and surprising, and they lead readers to wonder along with Bianca whether they are real or only her imagination. This story is fast paced, spine-tingling, and thrilling. What it lacks in literary merit is made up for in audience appeal.—Jake Pettit, Thompson Valley High School Library, Loveland, CO

Gr 9 Up—In 1947, 15-year-old Evie, her mother, Bev, and her stepfather, Joe, leave Brooklyn for a vacation in Palm Beach, FL, during the off season. There they meet Arlene and Tom Grayson, who lavish attention on the family and convince Joe to go into the hotel business with them. When Peter, an army acquaintance of Joe's, appears, Evie is smitten by his charm and attention. Her budding interest in romance, while protectively discouraged by her parents, is actually encouraged by Arlene, who helps Evie develop a sense of style. Evie enjoys her outings with Peter and interprets her mother's insinuating presence as protective, when in reality Bev is having an affair with the younger man. Joe's jealous distrust of his wife, established while he was at war in Europe, does not obviate the intimacy between Bev and Peter. Evie's closeness to her mother will not permit her to acknowledge the affair even when it becomes impossible to deny. Meanwhile pervading anti-Semitism sours the hotel deal, and the Graysons are forced out of Palm Beach. When Joe insists on one last boat trip, Peter dies during a storm and Joe is accused of murder. It is during the ensuing hearing that Evie learns that adults, even those closest to her, are not always what they seem. Blundell navigates this multidimensional plotline with unique, well-developed characters and insightful dialogue. Yet it is Evie and her rapidly maturing perception of herself and those around her that carry the story. In many ways she becomes the adult in the group, motivated by truth and justice rather than greed or superficial appearances.—Sue Lloyd, Franklin High School Library, Livonia, MI

Gr 4–7—Ordinary Boy (OB), the only resident of Superopolis who does not possess a superpower, stars again by solving the mystery of why the citizens are losing theirs. The ongoing conflict between good and evil thickens as Professor Brain-Drain, Comrade Crunch (aka the Red Menace), and the Amazing Indestructo plot to take over Superopolis. Ordinary Boy and his fellow Junior Leaguers discover the source of all the individual powers—potatoes that grow in the fertile soil created by the crash of a meteor years earlier. The local favorite food has long been Dr. Telomere's potato chips, but they are now being rejected in favor of The Amazing Indestructo's "Pseudo-Chips." Through public rallies and television, Comrade Crunch uses his power of brainwashing to compel the people to buy the Pseudo-Chips, claiming they will strengthen their power. Boniface has cleverly interlaced bits and pieces of story lines from past novels with this one to expand his wacky world with enough history and political overtones to appeal to those readers savvy enough to understand the satire behind the silliness. Reluctant readers can enjoy the comic graphic-novel essence of the text as well as Gilpin's humorous sketches. Whether viewed as an innovative political statement or a kid-appealing superhero manifesto, this novel shows that independent thought, appreciation of individual abilities, and good old brain power are all that are needed to be a hero.—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 6–9—An extraordinary, beautifully written tale about belonging, love, and the laws of nature. Sixteen-year-old Elin Jean lives in the Orkney Islands north of Scotland and is magnetically drawn to the sea. She knows she is different because of the webbing between her fingers that regenerates if it is cut. Though her father loves her mother, their relationship is tarnished by a mysterious underlying discord. He is determined to make Elin a normal girl by repeatedly cutting the webbing while her mother desperately tries to shield her from pain. Her compassionate grandfather pushes her to discover the truth for herself. Elin is attracted to Tam, a Gypsy boy in town. Her physical strangeness and his heritage set them apart from those around them, but perhaps this helps bring them together. By chance, Elin finds a seal skin hidden above a door in her house and learns the truth about her origins. The discovery is simultaneously freeing and burdensome. Brooks's rich prose reverberates with vivid, cinematic images. The author succeeds in conveying the fully fleshed-out characters' anguish and conflict. This marvelous offering brings to mind Alice Hoffman's Indigo (2002) and Karen Hesse's The Music of Dolphins (1996, both Scholastic). It's not to be missed.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 6–10—Andy, 15, is on the verge of getting his driver's license and his girl-crazy best friend seems determined to get them both hooked up. For Andy, though, life is far more complicated. His older brother inexplicably hates him, his father is a cruel alcoholic, and his mom does little to help him. He had been in a mental hospital the previous year, and it looks like the pressure of his dysfunctional family is going to push him over the edge again. To combat his inner demons and escape his uncaring family, the teen, an outdoor enthusiast, simply walks away into the Wisconsin wilderness, determined to survive on his own. The concept of Carter's story is appealing, but the execution falls flat. The pace is plodding, and the survivalist aspect isn't explored deeply enough. In truth, the story suffers from a lack of focus as it concentrates neither on the wilderness angle nor Andy's mental-health struggles. He seems less sick than rightfully angry at his family and their lack of support, and his trek into the woods is more about running away than proving his ability to thrive with little to no supplies. Unfortunately, Walkaway is a hollow read that fails its lead character.—Terri Clark, Smokey Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 5–8—Palestinian teen Amani tends her extended Muslim family's sheep alongside her beloved grandfather, Seedo, and helps tend their vineyards and olive groves. When their quiet rural life is disturbed by Israeli settlers encroaching on their land, Amani's uncle reacts with anger, while her father tries to resist peacefully with the help of a sympathetic rabbi. After Seedo dies, Amani has sole responsibility for the diminishing flock and experiences physical threat and gunfire from the settlers as well as friendship with their son, who just wants to return to New York. The tension escalates until Amani's family compound is destroyed, and her father and uncle are imprisoned. Carter strikes a splendid balance in character development, portraying both parties' flaws while demonstrating Palestinian sympathies. Background and cultural information are seamlessly woven into the narrative, which is written simply and clearly in a skillful depiction of a sensitive situation.—Joyce Adams Burner, formerly at Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 5–8—Eleven-year-old Kata is still too much a child to understand the political tensions swirling around her in post-World War II Hungary where her once-successful father has become depressed, her mother illegally sells stuffed animals, and her older brother flees to the West. Kata's clear, first-person voice never loses the child's point of view. Even as her older neighbor changes enough to rebel against her parents' demands that she become a Young Pioneer leader, Kata only sees that Eva has again become her friend. Thoughtful readers, however, will see between the lines and find enough detail to understand something of the political background and the family's precarious situation even if they have not previously studied the history of Soviet satellite countries. As she did in Marika (Boyds Mills, 1998), Cheng has based her story on her Hungarian family history; each chapter begins with a photograph of a piece of the instructions for the bears her grandmother made. This book reads like a memoir, and it is a thoroughly convincing recollection of a vanished world.—Kathleen Isaacs, Towson University, MD

Gr 8 Up—Seventeen-year-old Lainey has an uncommon dream: to be the first African-American celebrity vegetarian chef. She shows promise, helping out in the kitchen at her mother's Bay Area restaurant and concocting mouthwatering dishes in her spare time. (Hand-written recipes are included.) Cooking is her salvation; she turns to the kitchen when things aren't going well, particularly in her precarious relationship with Simeon Keller. While she cares for him as a friend, she overlooks the way he uses her. When he runs away from a bad situation at home, she offers him brief sanctuary in her home, giving him $500 and food before he jets out of town. Lainey's mom hounds her for details about his disappearance, details that she withholds for weeks. When Sim returns, months later, she's more self-assured and certain of her own plans for success. While Davis's first novel at times suffers from awkward wording and slow moments, it's still a book with a lot of heart. Readers will relate to Lainey, who doesn't always say the right thing, who has a love-hate relationship with her mother, and who finds her dreams realized at the novel's end. Secondary characters, like Lainey's formerly dorky family friend, ring true and add depth to the novel.—Jennifer Barnes, Homewood Library, IL

Gr 7–9—In this slangy, journal-style novel, Shiraz Bailey Wood, 15, lives in Essex and attends Mayflower Academy (generally known as Superchav Academy). She's a slacker at school and is behind much of the drama surrounding its official events (such as the fight that broke out at the Winter Festival). Everything is fine, though, until her best friend finds a new love interest and pushes Shiraz into the background; her sister and mother have a fight and Cava-Sue moves out; and a new, tough teacher comes to Mayflower Academy. Suddenly everything Shiraz knows is turned upside down and the only person she can tell is her new diary. This novel is packed with British slang and pop-culture references to the point of confusion. (A 14-page glossary is included.) Still, the plot is universal, proving that teenagers are the same worldwide. Shiraz is a witty and amusing narrator, and there are some laugh-out-loud moments.—Heather E. Miller, Homewood Public Library, AL

Gr 4–6—Talia's life is complicated. Her mom has a morning TV show on which she broadcasts her daughter's every humiliation. She was once part of a friendship of four, but two girls have broken away and want her to join them, leaving goofy but loyal Bridget behind. She misses her deceased father and is not sure how to handle her mom's blossoming friendship with Jake the sportscaster. She has landed her own weekly commentary on the morning podcast at school. Talia hopes this post will allow her a chance to give her mother a taste of her own medicine as she tries to figure out all the confusion in her 11-year-old life. This breezy read touches on some important topics from friendship and fitting in to dealing with loss and coping with change. However, it is the relationship between mother and daughter—at times tense but always loving—that gives the book its heart and makes it a good choice for mother/daughter book clubs.—Shari Fesko, Southfield Public Library, MI

Gr 4–6—Trina and her seventh-grade classmates organize a trick against Carlos, their special-needs classmate with big hair, a squeaky voice, and scratching issues. Trina uncovers his fear of aliens after being partnered with him for a school project, and the pranksters plan an extraterrestrial encounter for him during their class's wilderness excursion. As Trina gets to know Carlos, she begins second-guessing herself, especially since Sara, her best friend, has grown distant. Emerson fully explores some characters only to leave others languishing. Trina's anger and embarrassment after her in-class humiliation because of an accident Carlos causes becomes almost visceral, and readers will be shocked at how well they identify with her in that moment. They will commiserate with the students over the perceived favoritism that Carlos receives. The suspenseful forest scene in which the plan goes awry and the children become lost stirs the primeval fears of cold and dark, and generates empathy for both the pranksters and the victim. However, the author allows too much action to occur offstage, and there's not enough information about Carlos's unspecified disorder to understand him or the teachers' treatment of him. Still, this tale can illustrate the consequences of one's actions and provides comfort to those who are waiting for the pranks to end.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

Gr 5–9—Fifteen-year-old Joey has always loved playing football with his dad, but has managed to flub the tryouts for his high school team two years in a row. Relegated to water-boy status, he dreams of stardom. He gets his chance when the team's wide receiver is suspended for cheating and the coach just happens to see Joey make a stellar catch. During his first game, one magnificent catch follows another and he is on his way to leading his last-place team to the state finals. All is not rosy, however: the quarterback resents him for taking Matt's place, his pessimistic mother is convinced that he is going to get seriously injured, and his schoolwork takes a nosedive. Joey is torn between wanting to ask out a popular cheerleader and his newfound feelings for his best friend, Samantha. While Eulo's love for football shines through in all the game detail, characters are stereotypical and there are no surprises in this self-described "Cinderella story." Also, a racist incident involving a team party with "no-crows-or-jumping-beans" is far too easily resolved. Die-hard football fans may enjoy seeing how Joey overcomes all of the odds, but with great sports fiction available from the likes of Mike Lupica, Carl Deuker, and John Feinstein, this is an additional purchase.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 5–8—Ignatius MacFarland, a nerdy seventh grader who is constantly teased at school, doesn't just want to leave his hometown: he wants to be rescued by aliens and taken to another planet. When Iggy creates a rocket out of trash cans and accidentally gets caught inside it during a test run, he finds himself in a different world. Though the land formations are like home, the trees have thorns and there are strange creatures like giant praying mantises and three-legged armless gorillas. Iggy eventually runs into Karen, a teenager from his town who supposedly died in an explosion. She explains that they're in another frequency controlled by a former failed English teacher from Iggy's school. Karen is on a mission to free everyone from Mr. Arthur's dictatorship, and Iggy gets swept up with her. While the premise is highly original, the story lacks a good explanation of frequencies and a clear plot. The characters are mostly running from one crisis to the next, with little downtime in between. Ultimately, this fantasy/sci-fi adventure fails to take off.—Necia Blundy, Marlborough Public Library, MA

Gr 9 Up—MySpace and Facebook have changed the way American teens communicate. Madison MacDonald's Friendverse profile is the first thing she checks in the morning and the last thing she sees at night. That is until her family goes to the Galapagos Islands, where she will have no access to the Internet for two weeks. Upon returning, she checks her profile, only to discover that someone has hacked into her page. This person has posted horrible things about her and, worse, secrets about her friends that she promised never to tell a soul. The ramifications have made her a social pariah. The hacker, pretending to be Madison, even broke up with her boyfriend through Friendverse. The plot quickens as she channels Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes to solve the crime. The author peppers clues throughout and keeps readers guessing all the way to the surprising conclusion. Smartly written and totally accessible, this is a wonderfully fun first novel. The author has her finger on the pulse of teens today and is certain to please many of them.—Julianna M. Helt, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 8 Up—Sam Carrier's bitter, abusive stepfather, Old Bill, is ashamed of the boy's Tourette's Syndrome, and makes the teen feel that shame at every turn. He also makes Sam's life a misery by constantly telling him that his father was a no-good deserter. Upon his high school graduation, Sam meets George, a friend of his long-dead father, who attempts to undo the harm that Old Bill has done over the years. Sam (whose real name turns out to be Jack) embarks on a cross-country road trip to discover his roots, his identity, and his love for Naomi, who tags along, bringing some unexpected baggage. The story is compelling, especially Sam/Jack's quest for a deeper understanding of himself through his father's legacy. Along the way, he stays in the homes of his father's old friends and puts the pieces of his parents' life together. There is an abundance of inner dialogue, so much that readers may have trouble distinguishing between what Sam thinks, tells himself, or says to others. As soon as he meets George and his period of discovery begins, the book is a quick read, and the excitement of his journey will keep most readers turning the pages to see what's around the bend.—Nora G. Murphy, Los Angeles Academy Middle School

Gr 5–9—This final volume in the trilogy returns readers to Inkworld and its wide cast of characters. Under the rule of the evil Adderhead, it is a bleak and dangerous place. General gloominess bogs down the pace initially, as several characters agonize, sometimes tiresomely, over past regrets and the dire uncertainty of the future. Meggie, despite her gift of magical reading, remains a disappointingly dull protagonist, but other characters are quite compelling. Her bookbinding father, for instance, emerges as a swashbuckling outlaw, and, when he brings the fire-dancer Dustfinger back from the dead, things get really interesting. The assortment of villains is vivid and frightening, especially Mortola, who can change shape, and the immortal Adderhead. Even more intriguing is Mo, who evolves into a powerful and complex scoundrel as he explores the evil potential of his unique ability to make up stories, then read them into reality. The finale includes a thoroughly engrossing climax as the Adderhead and Mo meet their doom, though a subplot involving Meggie and her companions is less exciting. Despite occasional weaknesses in plotting and characterization, Funke successfully explores ideas of fate, free will, and the power of story in a multilayered tale with many dramatic moments, bringing the series to a satisfying conclusion. Summaries of the first two books and a list of names and places are provided for those new to the series, but this last installment will be appreciated most by readers who start with the first title.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 6–8—Readers once again find orphaned Cat backstage at Drury Lane, but she doesn't stay there for long. The slave master who owned her friend Pedro has returned to claim "his property," and Cat and her friends, who include a group of adult abolitionists, won't have it. While trying to protect him, however, Cat gets herself into trouble and must go into hiding disguised as a boy at the aristocratic Westminster School, described in the glossary as "supposedly a place of learning for young gentlemen; in truth, a den of floggers and bullies." As in The Diamond of Drury Lane (Roaring Brook, 2008), Golding spins a tale that starts with a bang. However, the quick start slows down after Cat enters the boy's school and the plot turns its focus there, and readers may be left wondering what happened to Pedro. Fortunately, our heroine finds her way back to her cause to save her friend, taking readers on an adventurous ride full of mystery, suspense, and history along the way.—Sarah O'Holla, Village Community School, New York City

Gr 7–10—Legend has it that the Blue Flame was lit upon the moment of Christ's death, and whoever has it in his possession will have victory over his foes. But for Parsifal, who was only a child when charged with keeping the flame, the burden is overwhelming, and he retreats into solitude and madness. However, the Flame refuses to be hidden—one evening it flares, illuminating the land of the Occitan with an unmistakable glow. As a result, the Catholics and the Cathars, who once lived together in peace, are now at odds. An inquisition begins. Yolanda, the daughter of a Catholic count, and her childhood friend Raimon, the son of a Cathar peasant, who have fallen in love, become divided by violence. Although it has a promising premise and a potentially exciting story line, this book, set in 1242 France, fails to deliver. Because the point of view shifts from one character to another (including the land of the Occitan itself), it is impossible for readers to become connected with anyone in particular. In addition, this fractured narrative makes it difficult to tell what is happening to whom. The plot progresses in strange leaps, particularly toward the end of the novel, and events that need depth are summarized. The historical detail of the narrative is what saves this novel. Students who are able to read past the awkwardness will find the background information fascinating and will want to know which parts of the story are true and which have been fictionalized.—Heather M. Campbell, formerly at Philip S. Miller Library, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 5–8—A fascinating look at the Civil Rights Movement, specifically the campaign to gain the vote for blacks in Selma, AL. The author, son of Jack Greenberg, a civil rights lawyer and director of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund during the 1960s, provides a unique perspective on this time, wrapping actual events within a fictional story line. It centers around David's boyhood in Great Neck, NY, as he grows in understanding of the often-dangerous work his father does. Alternating chapters focus on Jack Greenberg's efforts in the South, the courageous individuals with whom he comes into contact (ranging from regular people to leaders such as Thurgood Marshall and Martin Luther King, Jr.), and the threats they all face daily. This book is at once homage of a son to his father and an exploration of a crucial moment in American history. Dad is lovingly portrayed, as is the rest of the Greenberg family. The narrative beautifully melds historical fact with imagined situations and characters (footnotes and a postscript clearly delineate between real and fictionalized events). Although didactic at times, it is clearly written and sincere, and it should prove appealing to those readers who absorb historical fact better through historical fiction.—Carol Jones Collins, Hanover Park High School, East Hanover, NJ

Gr 7–10—Pemba, an African-American teen, doesn't want to make the move from Brooklyn to Connecticut no matter how rosy a picture her mother tries to paint. As soon as she sees her new home, she knows something isn't right. At first, she thinks she's imagining things, like the strange mirror that reflects the image of an 18th-century girl. But then the blackouts begin. During them Pemba sees Phyllys, a slave who lived in the house centuries before. Something horrible happened to her all those years ago and now she needs Pemba's help. Working with Abraham, an eccentric old man who lives nearby, Pemba must uncover the girl's story to finally put her to rest. Told through alternating chapters, poetry, and journal entries, this title is sure to appeal to fans of ghost stories as well as historical fiction. There are few ghost stories featuring African-American teens and fewer still that are as well written and interesting as this one. With its brevity, it will make an excellent choice for reluctant readers as well.—Ginny Collier, Dekalb County Public Library, Decatur, GA

Gr 5–8—Prometheus Jones, born to a Tennessee slave on the same day Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, has always had good luck, and, at age 13, he wins a horse in a raffle. Before she died, "Mama always told I was the luckiest child on earth. Might ride that horse clear to Texas and never look back." Indeed, Prometheus uses his newly acquired transportation to flee the racist rednecks who accuse him of stealing the raffle ticket. Because of his exceptional skill with horses, he and his sidekick cousin are invited to join a cattle drive to South Dakota. Along the way, they get a taste of the Wild West during the time of Manifest Destiny, Indian wars, and gold rush prospectors. Inspired by the autobiography of African-American cowboy Nat Love, this notable Western shows a side of cowboy life rarely depicted: the diversity found among one of the few groups at the time that valued a man's talents over the color of his skin. Hemphill's convincing vernacular narration and well-researched, hard-bitten details of life in the South and on the western range give this adventure story surprising depth. The fast-paced plot, punctuated by Prometheus's astonishing wins and losses, will lasso readers' interest.—Madeline Walton-Hadlock, San Jose Public Library, CA

Gr 6–9—This second in a series about twins who assist their British spy dad seems ridiculous on the face of it. However, if readers can get past the first chapter, they will be sucked in and taken on a roller-coaster ride until the somewhat fantastical ending. Jade and Rich Chance are on holiday in Venice when they must tie up the mystery of who has been following them around the city since their father helped a Swiss accountant escape from his mob employers. Back in England, their adventures continue. International crime rings, kidnapping, money laundering, a mysterious crime lord, and a remote Scottish castle all play a part in the nonstop action. The brothers must help their father figure out who the crime boss is and rescue their new math teacher before huge sums of money are lost. Amazingly, the crime syndicate always seems to be one step ahead of them. Some willing suspension of disbelief is necessary, and the protagonists seem a little younger and less gutsy than Alex Rider, but teens who are enjoying Anthony Horowitz's and Ally Carter's books will get a kick out of Jade and Rich as well.—Robin Henry, Griffin Middle School, Frisco, TX

Gr 7 Up—This short book in poetry format follows the pregnancy of 16-year-old Sahara as she goes from feeling depressed and alone to feeling depressed and having no choice but to share her burden with her unsupportive family. Don't think Juno (from the hit 2007 film) or Bobby (from Angela Johnson's The First Part Last [S & S, 2003]); Sahara is an uninspiring teen with a bemoaning attitude, a deep-grained refusal to take on responsibility, a lack of foresight, and a dearth of empathy. Perhaps due to the poetry not being very poetic—rather, prose snippets that occasionally hit a rhythm or poetic truth—none of the characters are particularly well developed and some sections drag on and on after the emotion has already been thoroughly explored. However, this realistic cautionary tale does address many difficult issues without overt judgment: Sahara's sexual activity, the challenge to her pro-life upbringing, the meaning of motherhood, and the teen father's role.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library

Gr 5–9—In this new series, readers meet three bear cubs: Kallik, a polar bear; Lusa, a black bear; and Toklo, a brown bear. The story follows their adventures, narrated in alternating chapters. Kallik loses her mother in a killer-whale attack and is separated from her brother. She has never lived on her own before, and never been anywhere but on the ice. Lusa hears stories about life in the wild that eventually cause her to leave the safety of the zoo. Toklo is abandoned by his mother, who flees into the woods in grief when his brother dies. All three cubs are now learning to survive in the woods with minimal knowledge and ability and with no adult allies. From the first page, this story is exciting and refreshing. The bears' declining habitat is evident, and often throughout their journey the animals have to dodge cars and humans with guns. The plot is fast paced, and the author is apt at creating and sustaining the adrenaline-charged mood of these youngsters on their own.—Jennifer-Lynn Draper, Children's Literature Consultant, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Gr 7 Up—Vospop Vsklzwczdztwczky is a "15-year-old illegal immigrant Slobovian boy who got into dipp, dipp trobble." In letters to a friend back home, he tells of his journey to America in a "great big sheep," smuggled in a shipment of black market imitation "Chiss Poffs" with his gloomy father and his delusional uncle. Voss discovers that Slobovians are the "lowest of the low" in American society—the illegal Slobovian section (Voss doesn't know whether they've landed in "New York City, New York, San Francisco, Arizona, or Detritus, Michigan") is "the most deep-ressing part of town" where residents can't find work, lose hope, and sink into poverty or crime. Voss gets tangled up with billionaire Noah McBloomingdale and his celebrity daughter Tiffany; with Slobovian crime boss Bilias Opchuck; and with Leena Aleenska, the girl from his village whom a fortune-teller has predicted he'll marry. Amid these and more colorful characters, Voss heroically foils an evil scheme to harvest the organs of immigrants and sell them to rich Americans. With the same knack for humorous accents that he brought to Scrib (HarperCollins, 2005), Ives blends laugh-out-loud inanity with real social commentary on U.S. culture—from clothing and celebrity to advertisements and eating habits—and the plight of immigrants. Readers will chuckle over the customs and proverbs of fictional Slobovia and enjoy understanding what it is to be American through Voss's endearing critical eye. Well paced and engaging, this is a thoroughly entertaining and thought-provoking satire.—Riva Pollard, Prospect Sierra Middle School, El Cerrito, CA

Gr 7–10—Dane, a Viking-style warrior, must make a name for himself, avenge his father's death, and rescue his lady love from an evil despot. It sounds like the novel should be a rollicking adventure tale full of battles and romance. And while there are some exciting moments, and the character development is good, the book is, for the most part, a hodgepodge of disparate elements. The beginning of the tale reads like historical fiction, and then fantasy is woven in, and readers are often jolted and surprised by the next scene or scenario. For a story that has a more seamless marriage of historical fiction and fantasy, try Nancy Farmer's The Sea of Trolls (S & S, 2004).—Saleena L. Davidson, South Brunswick Public Library, Monmouth Junction, NJ

Gr 9 Up—Faced with an arranged marriage to a senile old man as punishment for her rebellious ways, orphaned 16-year-old Babylonne escapes the clutches of her maternal aunt and heads out on her own. Although she is now disguised as a boy, Father Isadore recognizes her and claims to have known her biological father. She has no choice but to trust the priest. The two begin a journey through the treacherous 13th-century French countryside that turns into a pilgrimage for Babylonne, who comes to know about her deceased parents, her quiet traveling companion, and herself. While readers do learn something about life during the Middle Ages (e.g., the feudal system, struggle between religious factions, lack of power for women), the novel's strength is in its characters. The pacing is slow, but the story serves to introduce and develop the protagonist and the priest in anticipation of future books. Much of the discussion about religion will be lost on teens, but they will find Babylonne's (sometimes vulgar) inner dialogue hilarious. Fans of Jinks's Pagan Kidrouk, featured in four earlier novels, will enjoy this story.—Wendy Scalfaro, G. Ray Bodley High School Library, Fulton, NY

Gr 9 Up—Danielle, 15, wants to be loved-not the way the Dad-wannabes love her single mom, not the way her ever-reliable friend Evan loves her, but really loved, the way she deserves. So when her old crush Reid expresses an interest in her, she falls hard for the much older boy. To be with him, she routinely ditches and lies to Evan and BFF Ashley, who steadfastly stand by with admonitions and advice. When Danielle finally sees through Reid's lies and realizes that he has been unfaithful, she and Ashley steal his cherished car and hit the road. Danielle's relationships are mostly realistic, if overly dramatic, and the premise of getting swept up in a bad boy's charms is believable. However, the dialogue-driven narrative is sometimes clumsy, major characters often serve as doormats to be pushed aside, and references to teen culture are self-conscious and stuffy. Although the fact that Ashley's life is not as happy as she pretends is repeatedly hinted at, the details of her past are confessed too late to make any thematic use of them, despite their relevance to Danielle's situation. This book has the potential to be an engrossing story but gets dragged down by the weak characters and a ham-handed delivery.—Brandy Danner, Wilmington Memorial Library, MA

Gr 5–8—Twelve-year-old Laura Wyman is preparing for her Bat Mitzvah, and the rabbi has given her class a special assignment. The students will "twin" with a Jewish child who, due to the Holocaust, never had the opportunity to celebrate this important milestone. When she tries to get out of the project, the rabbi gives Laura Mrs. Mandelcorn's phone number and asks that she visit her. The elderly woman gives the child a diary from 1941–1943, and Laura immerses herself in the gripping story of Sara Gittler, a girl living in the Warsaw ghetto. Kacer's text alternates between Sara's diary entries and Laura's present-day story. However, the plodding third-person narration for Laura is too descriptive, spelling out all of her thoughts and feelings. The writing in Sara's diary is much more fluid and compelling, which makes the book as a whole seem unbalanced. Secondary story lines involving school bullies and vandalism to the local Jewish cemetery are a bit contrived, and readers will realize that the diary belongs to Mrs. Mandelcorn much sooner than Laura does. Nonetheless, Kacer does provide an interesting, highly readable story of life in the Warsaw ghetto complete with historical photographs. Students participating in similar "twinning" projects will relate to Laura's discovery of how lessons learned from World War II can resonate today.—Rachel Kamin, North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, Highland Park, IL

Gr 5–8—Amy, 14, is hired by rich Mrs. Edgerton to fill in for her regular nanny. What should have been an easy job, three-year-old Kendra being a peach to watch, turns into a terrifying experience when the two girls are kidnapped and taken to a remote cabin in the woods. The two kidnappers videotape them and send DVDs to the Edgertons to convince them to pay a ransom for Kendra. Amy realizes that the men have no intention of allowing her to leave. She begins to work subtle clues into each video, hoping her best friend will be able to decipher their meaning. Finally, one of her clues pays off and a break is made in the case. Stolen Children features an interesting story and a strong female character, but the language is sometimes stilted and Amy occasionally seems more mature than her years. This book would be a good addition to large collections, or libraries with patrons clamoring for realistic thrillers.—Jessica Miller, New Britain Public Library, CT

Gr 4–7—A riveting opening sentence pulls readers into this unusual story of 11-year-old Billie Wisher, whose father and uncle have just robbed a bank. The girl adores her dad despite his pattern of abandonment. She is determined to find him before the police do and wants him to return the money. Billie convinces her cousin Tommy to go on her secret quest. As she creates a cumbersome trail of lies for her mother and stepfather and to cover her tracks with the townspeople, she weaves a labyrinthine web that becomes increasingly more difficult to manage. Kelsey has created a determined, feisty heroine whose sometimes foolish courage grows out of her love for her father and her need to believe that he is basically a good man, and even the danger involved in following him doesn't alter her resolve. The intensity of Billie's emotions causes readers to hope that she can make this dismal situation turn out happily. This multifaceted story of adventure, family, love, and trust is a testament to how strong a child's need for fatherly attention and love can be. The jarring disconnect between the book's underlying serious theme and the cartoonish art and bright red and pink on the jacket is unfortunate.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 5–8—Readers fond of elves, fairies, and trolls will enjoy this fantasy feast. When Jim McCormack takes his young daughter, Anna, on an early-morning hunting expedition in the nearby woods, he stumbles on a royal fairy wedding, and, aiming his gun at a deer, he accidentally kills the groom. This precipitates an already smoldering conflict between the human and fairy worlds, exacerbated when Jim's son grows up and begins cutting down trees to build a development in the fairy woods. When Jim's grandson, Matt, cuts his foot on an important fairy shoe, the two worlds collide. The action is fast paced, and the fragile line between fairy and human worlds is clearly drawn. Characterizations are well done. Young Anna becomes a kind of human sacrifice, kept prisoner for years by the fairies as punishment for the murder of the fairy prince. Stunning imagery paints a believable sylvan fairy world, eerily spooky and dangerous. Humor in the form of a troll named Agar whose lair is cluttered with hoarded treasures lightens the mood. Large, full-page black-and-white sketches of elves with huge eyes and pointed ears emphasize the haunted, otherworldly atmosphere. After reading this intriguing fantasy, readers will take a careful look around them while walking through the woods.—Quinby Frank, Green Acres School, Rockville, MD

Gr 6–9—Terence, Gecko, and Arjay made serious mistakes and wound up doing time in juvenile-detention facilities. Empathetic adult Douglas Healy, a former juvenile offender himself, has secured a grant to operate an experimental halfway house in New York City designed to provide second chances to boys deemed as deserving. The teens accept his offer to become his first reformees, willing to trade their bleak incarceration for a small taste of freedom, even though the bargain entails maintaining academic excellence, therapy, and community service. Though Gecko and Arjay enter into the deal in good faith, Terence seems bound for recidivism. Gecko and Arjay attempt to intercept him one night as he tries to use the fire escape as a means of reconnecting with his newfound, gang-related associates. A scuffle ensues and, when Healy intervenes, he falls to the ground, unconscious but still alive. The boys "borrow" a vehicle and drop him off at a local hospital where he awakens with retrograde amnesia. The teens then face the seemingly impossible task of keeping up appearances while also working behind the scenes at the hospital to ensure that Mr. Healy eventually regains his memory and returns to his post as their overseer. This novel is signature Korman; it is a celebration of good, youthful intentions and a wholesome and fun treatment of what might otherwise be prohibitively gritty issues. As such, it's a great choice as a middle school read-aloud.—Jeffrey Hastings, Highlander Way Middle School, Howell, MI

Gr 5–7—This illustrated novel, reminiscent in style of Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Abrams, 2007), is sure to have huge appeal. Finn Garrett tells the tender yet humorous story of how he begins to disappear following his beloved dad's sudden death. The 12-year-old awakens the morning after the day when everything changes to find a strand of white hair and less "pinkness" to his skin. Each day he grows whiter and less visible. He begins to write a memoir, which is really an account of his and his family's grief over their devastating loss. While poignant and sad, the book is ultimately upbeat as they begin to heal. At times Finn feels he is being erased because he failed to save his dad. At other times he wonders if he is aging in order to get closer to him. He recounts memory after memory, ultimately realizing the importance of them, and of being the keeper of his father's stories. Finn sees a therapist, and eventually he, his mother, his grandpa, his little brother, and his friend Melanie move beyond their initial pain. Finn's invisibility reverses itself and he becomes a boy who has managed to hold on to the world. The book's engaging, intimate tone is enhanced by Finn frequently addressing readers. Stop signs placed at points when he is overwhelmed with feeling add to the tenderness. The language and style are pitch-perfect middle school, and the illustrations ably capture the boy's memories and moods.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 4–7—Theodosia Throckmorton is a clever 11-year-old who spends most of her time removing curses from artifacts in the Museum of Legends and Antiquities in pre-World War I England. In Theodosia and the Serpents of Chaos (Houghton, 2007), she foiled the evil plans of the Serpents of Chaos, a secret society bent on bringing the entire world to chaos. Here, she causes a scene at a formal party when she recognizes a mummy being unwrapped as Mr. Tetley, a member of the Serpents of Chaos who had been missing from his job at the British Museum. Theodosia has more problems when all the mummies from every museum in London are found in the lobby of the museum where her parents work, and the police suspect her father of the theft. Theodosia has to get rid of mummies, curses, and governesses hired by her dreaded grandmother, and thwart the dastardly plan of the Serpents of Chaos. Archaeology and fantasy fans alike will find much to love in this magical tale chock-full of ancient Egyptian artifacts and details. Theodosia's first-person narration is often very funny as she deals with the adults around her, and the plot is quick and multilayered like a well-wrapped mummy.—Samantha Larsen Hastings, West Jordan Public Library, UT

Gr 4–6—Mackenzie's father wins a pit bull puppy in a card game and, in an uncharacteristic gesture of kindness, gives her to his son. From the moment Cash enters the boy's life, she is a bright spot in a sea of darkness. With Mackenzie's mother dead and his father uninterested in raising him, he and Cash must take care of themselves in their rough neighborhood. Things go smoothly as long as they stay out of Dad's way, but when Cash tries to defend Mackenzie from one of his father's rages, the furious man takes the dog away. Life on the streets is not easy, but Cash has brains and a warm heart and survives until she's captured by a teenager who is part of a dog-fighting ring. After she escapes, Cash begins to perform brave deeds, dispelling local concern about the viciousness of pit bulls. All the while, boy and dog continue to search for one another. The writing is not stellar, and the ending predictably pat, but the simply told story is gripping. The kindness of some neighbors and the unfair attitudes of others toward the breed raise questions about stereotypes and fairness, making this an interesting book group selection.—Sarah Provence, Churchill Road Elementary School, McLean, VA

Gr 10 Up—This anthology consists of 17 stories, 19 essays, 21 poems, and 34 photos of works of art done in various media. The written pieces range from two words (literally) to 18 pages in length, and their themes are familiar to adolescent literature: friendships made and lost, romantic (usually sexual) angst, and issues of divorced and/or abusive parents. Other entries, however, go beyond the world of average American adolescence. For instance, the poem "Mama Always Says" expresses the admiration a young girl has for her mother, one of the "underpaid black women of apron slavery," who, despite her hard work as a domestic, manages to impart to her daughter the joy of living. The essay "The Truth About the Bug" tells of the anger felt by a teenage Muslim coming to terms with the fact that she was genitally mutilated as a child. "The 27 Remaining" transports readers to Molokai where, seeing the remnants of the one-time leper colony, a woman brings closure to the pain she felt from being separated from her disease-ridden mother. All of the selections, though vastly different stylistically, are exceptionally well written. Their language is sometimes raw, and their vocabulary is always strong and geared to mature readers. The artwork, too, presents themes of personal reflection, inviting observers to comment upon feelings instilled by the often-unusual images. The volume concludes with an explanation of the awards, a call for submissions, and a listing of other "Push" titles. The anthology will provide much fodder for discussion, and it is sure to spark interest for creative writers and budding artists alike.—Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, formerly at LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI

Gr 7–10—In this import from Great Britain, best friends Zoe and Chloe are desperate to find dates to accompany them to the Earthquake Ball (a fund-raiser for disaster victims). The problem is that all of the young men they know are "so immature they're practically fetuses!" Zoe's father unwittingly poses a solution: advertise in a want ad. The results, along with other madcap adventures—including Zoe's embarrassing encounters with the boy of her dreams and a nightmarish babysitting gig—will have readers laughing out loud. Limb makes the most of each comic situation with fast-paced text sprinkled with dialogue that often incorporates British slang and strong language. This funny episodic novel by the author of Girl, 15: Charming but Insane (Delacorte, 2004) will appeal to fans of British chick lit.—Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

Gr 7 Up—Philippa does not consider herself a Goth but she loves the color black. When she answers a classified ad for a summer nanny position, it is the advertisement's one specification—"must love black"—that attracts her to the job. Her new charges are 10-year-old twins who share her passion for the color, and her job minding the girls at Chrysalis Cliff, the luxury spa and mansion that serves as the family's home and business, begins auspiciously. Rumors of a ghost, a vaguely threatening spa manager, and a flirtation with the house gardener complicate what is supposed to be Philippa's charge: to help the twins incorporate some traditional fun into their regimented lives. McClymer's novel combines understated gothic elements with traditional teen romance tropes and succeeds as a light and funny read. The first-person narrative establishes Philippa as a realistic character struggling with her father's marriage following the death of her mother, a history teacher and author. Excerpts from her mother's one published novel, a true gothic romance, introduce each chapter, and the parallels between its fictional plot and the teen's own situation will be evident to readers, if not to Philippa herself. While the first half of the novel is well-developed, the book concludes on an abrupt but predictably upbeat note.—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 7 Up—In this gripping, stand-alone sequel to The Declaration (Bloomsbury, 2007), teenagers Anna and Peter have escaped Grange Hall, a prisonlike dormitory for Surpluses—children living in the United Kingdom in 2140 where childbirth is illegal and longevity drugs allow people to live forever. Anna's parents were overjoyed to have her back but were forced to commit suicide ("a life for a life") in order to give Anna and her baby brother a chance to become Legals. Her boyfriend, Peter, accepts a job working at Pincent Pharma, the Longevity drug company owned by his wicked grandfather, in order to help the Underground (a resistance group) destroy it. His unexpected ally is his Legal teenage half brother Jude, a talented computer hacker. The author addresses the moral and ethical implications of immortality in this dystopian novel, making it a great choice for group discussions. The writing style is not particularly lyrical but the fast pace and exciting plot make it a page-turner that will appeal to graduates of Margaret Peterson Haddix's "Shadow Children" series (S & S).—Sharon Rawlins, New Jersey State Library, Trenton

Gr 8 Up—For years, three factions—Townies, Cadets (city kids doing a six-week outdoor education program), and Jellicoe School students—have engaged in teen war games in the Australian countryside, defending territorial borders, negotiating for assets, and even taking hostages. Taylor Markham, a 17-year-old who was abandoned years ago by her mother, takes on leadership of the boarding school's six Houses. Plagued with doubts about being boss, she's not sure she can handle her Cadet counterpart, Jonah Griggs, whom she met several years before while running away to find her mother. When Hannah, a sort of house mother who has taken Taylor under her wing, disappears, Taylor puzzles over the book manuscript the woman left behind. Hannah's tale involves a tragic car accident on the Jellicoe Road more than 20 years earlier. Only three children survived, and Taylor discovers that this trio, plus a Cadet and a Townie, developed an epic friendship that was the foundation of the many mysteries in her life and identity, as well as of the war games. While the novel might put off casual readers, patient, thoughtful teens will remain to extract clues from the interwoven scraps of Hannah's narrative, just as Taylor does, all the while seeing the collapse of the barriers erected among the three groups over the years. Elegiac passages and a complex structure create a somewhat dense, melancholic narrative with elements of romance, mystery, and realistic fiction.—Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA

Gr 4–8—The very first page hints at the loss of Milagros de la Torre's wonderful childhood home, Las Brisas, an island in the Caribbean. The child loses the tastes, smells, sounds, and warmth of the loving community as she barely escapes from the harsh and deadly attack of neighbors from a different island, jealous of the bounty found there. Magical realism is a constant element in the unfolding events as the 12-year-old ends up on another island—this one off the coast of Maine. The contrast between the two cultures and communities is stark, but, gradually, Milagros finds herself building connections with the couple who have taken her in, and fighting the jealousy of their daughter. A parallel story of her mother enduring slavery on a pirate ship reminds readers of the enduring commitment in the mother-child relationship even though Milagros has no awareness of those events. A friendship with Old Woman Pérez, a Mexican immigrant, builds a bridge to the warmth and color of the Latin culture that Milagros needs. The book is written in accessible, but lively and lyrical language; it is obvious that great care has been taken to choose every word. Despite the resulting often-deliberate pace, this is an engaging and compelling tale of a fish out of water, learning to accept the realities of life through the magic of her heart.—Carol A. Edwards, Denver Public Library

Gr 7 Up—In this dark and dour novel, Jon, 16, willingly joins a small cult called the Brotherhood of the Hebetheus, headed by Jeremiah, a charismatic classmate at St. Sebastian's. They kidnap a suspected terrorist, code-named SNAKE, to prevent a bomb from going off at school. Bumbling doesn't begin to describe the ineptitude and neediness of this sorry gaggle of disaffected misfits who liberally sprinkle their dialogue with racist and misogynist epithets throughout the repetitive and convoluted plotline. Will Jon complete his initiation into the Brotherhood by complying with Jeremiah's order to hang SNAKE, aka Padma Laxsmi, a beautiful and terrified classmate, against whom Jeremiah seems to harbor a personal grudge? Or will Jon succumb to his desire for SNAKE and somehow help her escape? From the dead body of an elderly woman festering near their hideaway to the adolescent Hebethian "scriptures" and rules Jeremiah spouts to control his small flock, this is a putrid tale, albeit in keeping with various nutcase religious personality cults throughout time and from around the world. Unfortunately, the plot has too many holes. Significant details, such as Jon having twice had access to weapons that he could have used to free Padma, are dropped without explanation. Absurdities, such as killing for peace, are hammered home without subtlety, but relationships among the lads, between Jon and his estranged father, his mother, and Padma are unresolved, leaving a story that is raw and muddled.—Joel Shoemaker, Southeast Junior High School, Iowa City, IA

Gr 4–6—Lylice has skipped a year and is new to Susan B. Anthony Middle School in her hometown of Tucson. Worried about making friends, the sixth grader becomes the English Buddy to Mexico, a student from Nogales who lives with her aunt and is a talented artist. The girls visit one another, play in the band, and discuss ways to protest Principal Harrington's cancellation of the art program. When Mexico is hospitalized because her aunt is about to be unemployed and can't afford her niece's insulin, the girls finagle a job interview for her by forging a letter on stolen school stationery. Then, because of a boy on whom she has a crush, Lylice hurts her friend's feelings. Spanish words and phrases are cleverly introduced and add authenticity to depictions of Spanish class, and to Mexico's conversations with her aunt. Lylice writes for the school paper, and her articles add information to the story. Her passionate, enthusiastic voice and humor help to gather up the many subplots into a happy ending.—Debbie S. Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI

Gr 5–7—Twelve-year-old Ambrose Bukowski and his widowed, overprotective mother, an adjunct professor, move frequently. When he almost dies after he bites into a peanut that bullies put in his sandwich, just to see if he is really allergic, Irene has had enough, and she decides to homeschool him. While she teaches at night, Ambrose gets to know 25-year-old-Cosmo, recently released from jail and the son of the Bukowskis' warmhearted Greek landlords who live upstairs. Ambrose discovers that he and his neighbor both love Scrabble, so, without his mother's knowledge, he talks Cosmo into taking him to a Scrabble Club. For the first time, Ambrose has a friend, but when his mother finds out, she starts packing up to move again to get him away from the ex-con. This prompts Ambrose to run away, determined to get his mother to listen to him. Ambrose is a neat kid who is comfortable in his own skin, despite always being an outsider. Cosmo knows he made some wrong choices, but he is regretful, as well as caring and thoughtful, and a great morale booster for Ambrose. This is a tender, often funny story with some really interesting characters. It will appeal to word nerds, but even more to anyone who has ever longed for acceptance or had to fight unreasonable parental restrictions.—Shannon Seglin, Patrick Henry Library, Vienna, VA

Gr 9 Up—This anthology, the third volume in the series, contains 19 short stories by some of the top writers in this genre. Nancy Springer opens the volume with a story of a precocious young princess with a gift of discernment who unearths the controlling power of the moon goddess hidden in a golden ring. Nancy Farmer takes readers on a magical train ride into eternity. Margo Lanagan's "Ferryman" reveals the dark and dreary life of the boatman of the dead, while Jane Yolen and Adam Semple offer up the brutal, very adult retelling of "Little Red Riding Hood" as a sexually abused young woman who copes with her pain by cutting herself and disappearing into a fantasy world. The selections vary in length, with some short stories, some novellas. Each work is introduced by an evocative illustration that beautifully sets the scene for the written work. The variety of styles and themes and a gathering together of so many talented writers in one work offer readers a banquet for the imagination. For fans of the genre, this is a must read.—Debra Banna, Sharon Public Library, MA

Gr 9 Up—Beginning with a gothic tale set in 17th-century France and culminating with a modern, spine-tingling horror story, Ghosts is a collection of five short stories that center around one haunted house. Based on Edith Wharton's "Kerfol," the first one features the young wife of an abusive, older lord who also showers her with gifts, one of which is a sapphire necklace that appears in the subsequent tales. Although the master kills his wife's dogs one by one, the story ends with him found dead, mysteriously mauled by canines. The second tale takes place in the Napoleonic era with the new heir to Kerfol, nephew to a childless great-aunt, beset with nightmares about his father's death and haunted by a nonexistent pack of dogs. Both the following story, featuring a 1920s flapper, and a modern tale include some suggestive sexual scenes, but they in no way diminish the value of these creepy ghost stories that are reminiscent of Shirley Jackson's work. The first story is the longest and most difficult and may be a hard sell for less-sophisticated readers. If they can hang in, however, they will be rewarded with some great gooseflesh and an exciting read.—Jake Pettit, Thompson Valley High School Library, Loveland, CO

Gr 4–6—How can Penina possibly enjoy Hanukkah when her best friend is going to Aruba, her favorite teacher is moving to Arizona, and everyone is fawning over her annoyingly adorable little sister? In this sequel to Penina Levine Is a Hard-boiled Egg (Roaring Brook, 2007), every chapter is almost like a short story, each filled with small, touching revelations: Penina's worries for her teary-eyed teacher turn into mood-lightening laughter when they both share a joke about a rubber chicken hall pass, she learns that adults can often misspeak when her grandmother mentions that she thinks of Penina as her "revenge" upon her daughter, and that paper snowflakes can sometimes make people feel better. Quick explanations about the holiday are interwoven into the story for those unfamiliar with it. This is a sweet and funny holiday tale, with quirky cartoons that add interest.—Kathleen Meulen, Blakely Elementary School, Bainbridge Island, WA

Gr 4–6—This amalgamation of graphic novel and chapter book cleverly integrates wrinkled-looking notes, varied typefaces, wacky line drawings, and movie countdowns with straightforward prose to tell the funny if far-fetched tale of fifth-grader Zoey. Although sixth grade is 198 days away, she's already worried about her place on the "coolability" meter compared with the Bashleys: "Brittany-with-two-Ts and Ashley." An expert on obscure facts about the presidents, Zoey's idea of a good time is to catch bullfrogs and other amphibians with her friend Venus. She's hoping for a fairy godmother to make her cooler but what she finds is her great-grandfather's bowling shirt and fedora, which at least covers her bed-head. She runs into a photo shoot by U Grl of the Bashleys and their friends in the school hall. When the magazine's reps ask for something interesting from a locker, Zoey jumps in. Not only is her locker jam-packed with geeky books, art supplies, and other paraphernalia, and the reps are taken with her sense of style as well. Geek Chic offers more wish fulfillment than reality for girls—the staff members all don fedoras like Zoey's. There's nothing new about its message of self-acceptance except that it's aimed at the girls who need to hear it at younger and younger ages. Although slightly confusing in the beginning, the format will attract reluctant readers, and the story will please girls who cultivate offbeat interests with as much enthusiasm and zaniness as Zoey.—Tina Zubak, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 8 Up—Jerrica loves math and probability. She believes that the universe can be explained by equations and she is very close to cracking them, intuitively. Using this ability, she is often able to predict future events, including the outcome of the seemingly unbeatable game, roulette. Enter Sanjay, a new acquaintance in her Las Vegas high school, with a bit of a gambling problem. He is never ahead for long, often borrowing from the safe in his father's grocery store to cover his debts. Kat's mother is serving time for a hit-and-run and is now up for parole—and Kat isn't sure she's very enthusiastic about her mother's release. The three are out to take the casino world one small bet at a time. The characters are well drawn and the excitement of the gambling scenes is well executed. Additionally, some surprising details about the teens turn the story upside down, unraveling everything that readers thought they knew about them. A page-turner.—Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

Gr 8 Up—The council of mages, The Winding Circle, has received a request from the Battle Islands for assistance. Their plants are dying and their rivers are turning to acid, and the situation is getting worse. The Circle sends two mages, along with a student who has gotten herself into a bit of trouble. Evvy has a choice—either go on the mission or be confined to Discipline Cottage. Her mentor is one of the mages, so she chooses to accompany them. When they arrive at the island, they discover that Evvy might be useful after all. What follows is a riveting story that has many inventive and exciting plot twists and turns. The story was originally created as an audio book, with actors helping the author develop the characters as they recorded. It was a fabulous idea, and the story features excellent character development because of it. Evvy has depth, and readers get hints as to her motivations and desires. The whole book, the first in a series, is an amazing ride.—Jennifer-Lynn Draper, Children's Literature Consultant, Oshawa, Ontario

Gr 8 Up—Set in Concord, MA, in 1886, this mystery centers around Oliver Puckle, a 16-year-old reporter who gathers news for his uncle's paper. When the body of an elderly community member is discovered near Henry David Thoureau's cottage at Walden Pond, Oliver is determined to solve the crime. He soon surmises that the murder is related to the recent arrival of an attractive young woman, who has since gone missing. Although Thoreau, an acquaintance of the narrator's, uses his knowledge of the woods to help interpret clues, he is more a decorative overlay than an integral character in the whodunit. The same can be said of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Louisa May Alcott, who both make cameo appearances at the newspaper office. A foreword by the author's son recounts Platt's career and explains how this book was found among his papers and published posthumously. Taken as a whole, the novel seems sketchily researched and hastily thrown together-more a work in progress than a completed manuscript.—Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Gr 8–10—When his parents divorce, Milo has to leave behind his familiar Seattle neighborhood and his kind fifth-grade teacher, Ms. Swinford, who shares her enthusiasm for all things Swiss with her students and gives him a much-valued book of synonyms. Moving to a crime-ridden apartment complex while Mom studies to become a dental technician, Milo misses not only his Dad and their philosophical discussions about the search for truth, but also being known and having his place assured. For the next three years, he tries to remain invisible, and then it's back to Seattle and another chance to reinvent himself. When he's in 10th grade, he runs into Ms. Swinford again, and revelations about her make him examine his idea of truth. Milo gradually loses his childish innocence and sense of total protection, teeters on the edge of danger, and finally reaches a place where he knows what he wants for himself. His slowly revealed maturing is best shown in his relationship with his mostly absent father, of whom Mom says, "he's all wrapped up in his personal growth, yet he's never grown up." Milo sheds his acceptance of the world and grows with subtlety and a wry humor that makes him appealing and enjoyable. This book is rewardingly remarkable for the characters and bits of truth that Milo never stops pursuing, even as he learns that truth is not what matters most.—Carol A. Edwards, Denver Public Library

Gr 7–11—Fern, 17, returns home from school one afternoon to find out that her mother has been taken to the hospital. When the teen finally gets there, she is told that her mother has died of a massive heart attack. Fern immediately takes stock of the situation and realizes that she now has to make her own way in the world, as her only living relative is an uncle she's never met, and who was recently released from prison. Fern takes over her mother's house-cleaning jobs, but knows that she can't earn enough to support herself so she takes a job as a janitor, where she can get free rent. Although initially fearful, she quickly gains confidence in her abilities and adds two other part-time jobs. Nonetheless, she feels overwhelmed and exhausted all the time, until Uncle Jack shows up and helps out with some of the work she's been doing. Written as a series of letters to an imaginary friend on another planet, this is a compelling story of determination and the will to survive. Readers will sympathize with Fern's situation, especially in this time of serious economic instability. Pair this book with Paul Griffin's Ten Mile River (Dial, 2008) or Mary Pearson's A Room on Lorelei Street (Holt, 2005) for dramatic booktalks.—Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—Reeve offers up a revisionist retelling of the Arthurian legend, set in southwest Britain in A.D. 500, and exposing the dark side of Camelot. Arthur is a brutal, bullying tyrant, and not terribly bright. His fame stems solely from the stories spun by Myrrdin, a traveling bard and trickster. But this story is not primarily Arthur's. It is Gwyna's, a child who is rescued by Myrddin when her village is sacked and burned. Myrrdin takes her under his care, disguising her first as the Lady of the Lake, and then as a boy. When adolescence arrives, Myrrdin reintroduces her to Arthur's court as a maid and she falls in love with Peredur, who has spent his childhood disguised as a girl. While the switching sexual identities may keep readers a bit off kilter, having the narrator be both Gwyn and Gwyna allows a dual perspective on Arthurian times. Reeve does not shy away from violence and gory battle scenes. When Arthur learns that his wife Gwenhwyfar is committing adultery with his young nephew, he beats and beheads Bedwyr in a particularly bloody episode. Gwenhwyfar is driven to suicide. Gwyna learns that Arthur's heroism and fame stem not from magic and noble deeds but rather from the stories Myrrdin spins. Indeed, with his death, she picks up his mantle. The power of stories is a theme of the novel. Reeve's usual lyrical, cinematic prose underscores the message that in the end perhaps they are the only things that matter. A multilayered tour de force for mature young readers.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 5–8—As the Mumby family gathers to celebrate Christmas at Larklight, their Earth-orbiting home, a dire message arrives alerting them of a "Great Danger" threatening the universe. The family sets off across the solar system to Georgium Sidus (aka Uranus) to find out what is wrong. So begins Art and Myrtle Mumby's latest space adventure. The danger turns out to be the Mothmaker, a malevolent Shaper or creator of planetary systems. It is determined to conquer the worlds, including Earth, created by another Shaper, Mrs. Mumby, and enslave the creatures, including humans, created by her. A series of exciting and entertaining episodes involving various characters and imaginative creatures leads up to a final confrontation between the Mothmaker and Art, Myrtle, and their companions at Balmoral Castle. While the story is told primarily from the point of view of Art, who is prone to use inflated language, Myrtle's diary entries are inserted throughout and include amusing commentary. The unlikely, somewhat awkward romance between the prim and proper Myrtle and Jack Havock is back on, much to Art's chagrin. Mothmaker is a clever blending of genres including science fiction, historical fiction, fantasy, and adventure with a liberal dash of British humor and style. One might describe it as a cross between science fiction, action movie, soap opera, and situation comedy. In sum, it's simply a jolly good read.—Jennifer D. Montgomery, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green

Gr 8–10—Kenzie, 19, seems to have it all. Since rocketing from obscurity to fame in a breakout role on a huge new TV show, she's been enjoying all of the perks of a Hollywood starlet, from free clothes by the hottest designers to VIP access to elite nightclubs. But sustaining an endless schedule of work, parties, appearances, and nonstop fun proves to be too much for the teen, and her world begins to spin out of control when handlers and hangers-on ply her with drugs and alcohol to keep her going. When her inebriated exploits threaten a big film role, Kenzie is summarily bundled off to a posh, private rehab facility, where her initial resistance to treatment begins to melt away as she finally decides to explore the issues that have brought her there. Reisfeld's novel is paper-thin and feather-light, with all the depth of characterization and plotting found in a celebrity gossip rag. Teens obsessed with the twists and turns of the latest Hollywood scandals may be drawn to the obvious parallels between the fictional Kenzie and her real-life counterparts, but the book's weak story line, nondescript characters, and often clumsy writing will fail to hold their interest.—Meredith Robbins, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School, New York City

Gr 8–11—Kristi is an outcast at her progressive high school. She's a nonconformist who makes her own clothes out of found objects and deliberately alienates the people around her. She describes herself as ugly and as a bitch. She also happens to have the ability to read minds. The negative thoughts she perceives from others cause her to reinforce the wall she has built around herself. She shut herself off from the world when her father left two years earlier, and hasn't trusted anyone since. She deliberately antagonizes her mother and plays cruel tricks on strangers. When a new student named Mallory starts at her school, Kristi comes to see herself reflected in his problems and finds that she doesn't want to be the angry outcast forever. As she opens up more to the people around her, she finds that she is not as perceptive about their opinions as she had thought, including those of her childhood crush, Gusty. Ryan's novel offers a fresh and funny teen voice. Kristi's sarcastic observations on her family and peers make this book a quick read. Many teens will relate to her feelings of isolation and the defensiveness it causes. If the book has one weakness, though, it is that the circumstances that allow Kristi to heal and open up happen a little too conveniently to be believable. Her seemingly deep emotional and self-esteem problems are resolved too quickly and easily. Still, this book will find an audience with girls looking for a strong heroine.—Stephanie L. Petruso, Anne Arundel County Public Library, Odenton, MD

Gr 5–9—Alcatraz Smedry is back, and the action is just as nonstop, the librarians are just as evil, and the quips and asides (and outright lies) that the author insists on inflicting upon readers are just as omnipresent. Fortunately for the fans of Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians (Scholastic, 2007), these are all good things. On the run from a Scrivener's Bone, a half-human, half-machine assassin that has been sent to retrieve the Translator's Lenses that Alcatraz stole in the first book, the boy receives word that his father is in mortal danger in the Library of Alexandria. He and a crew of quirky relatives with odd but very useful Talents mount a daring and completely ludicrous rescue. Though some readers may find the author's non sequiturs and frequent interruptions in the narrative off-putting, those who enjoy their fantasy with a healthy dose of slapstick humor will be delighted. Give this novel to fans of Eoin Colfer's "Artemis Fowl" (Hyperion/Miramax) and Catherine Jinks's Cadel Piggott in Evil Genius (Harcourt, 2007). They will appreciate Sanderson's cheerful sarcastic wit and none-too-subtle digs at librarians.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK

Gr 6–9—High school sophomore Courtney has just moved to Limbo Key, FL, with her flaky mother, who goes through husbands at breakneck speed, and her little brother, Bucky. She has to deal with a lot as she struggles to fit in at school: the only house they can afford is next to the cemetery, Mom doesn't seem concerned about getting a job although they are running out of money, and Courtney often plays the role of mother to Bucky. Set against this backdrop is the bizarre story of Satanists in the area. Dr. White, a sort of doomsday peddler, has been speaking at the school and the public library about his books on devil worship and warning the community to beware. Suddenly, strange things are happening in the cemetery, where Bucky's puppy is found with its throat slit. Courtney, with help from a new friend who gets her involved in the school newspaper, tries to solve the mystery, which culminates in the teens being locked in tombs on Halloween night. Courtney is a likable character, and it is her story that holds readers' attention. The Satanist plot is not really focused on until the last third of the book and seems forced and preachy. Though it has many elements of a compelling read, this novel unfortunately falls short.—Jake Pettit, Thompson Valley High School Library, Loveland, CO

Gr 5–8—Thirteen-year-old Leah loves her family, which includes her mother, stepfather, and five-year-old half brother, Charlie, but she is curious about her biological father, an anonymous sperm donor. She's also embarrassed by the whole idea and refuses to tell her friends. Without her parents' knowledge, she goes to the sperm bank's Web site and makes contact with a girl her age who was fathered by the same donor. From Samantha she learns that she also has three half brothers. Leah's family has recently moved to the New York City area, where she tells everyone that her father is in Europe, and a new friend encourages her to stop obsessing about the opinions of others. The book raises interesting questions about what constitutes a family. While Leah's character rings true, her new best friend, Charlie, and the nine-year-old half brothers she meets at the end occasionally talk and act out of character for their ages. Still, this is a solid story, providing a fresh take on an issue that's rarely addressed.—Natasha Forrester, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Gr 8–10—California-born Sonia Rodriguez, 15, the daughter of illegal Mexican immigrants, is determined to be the first high school graduate in her family. Her goal is nearly impossible to achieve when she is expected to cook, clean, and care for younger siblings while her pregnant mother lounges in bed watching telenovelas. Sonia's struggle is played out against a cast of stock characters, including her mother's obese, hyper-religious, and critical sister; her mother's alcoholic brother ("my drunkle"), who is frequently arrested and makes inappropriate sexual advances toward his niece; and her devoted, hardworking father, who seems oblivious to his family's exploitation of the daughter for whom he has high hopes. Sonia's awareness that her family's behavior reinforces negative stereotypes many Americans have about her culture strengthens her resolve to succeed. Despite her best intentions, the help of a sympathetic school counselor, and the wisdom she gains during a summer in Mexico with her grandmother, it seems that she will be defeated by her circumstances, but a surprising twist results in an uplifting ending. Sitomer, author of The Hoopster (2005) and Hip-Hop High School (2006, both Hyperion), in which Sonia appeared as a minor character, has a gift for capturing current high school culture and teen speak.—Ginny Gustin, Sonoma County Library System, Santa Rosa, CA

Gr 6–8—It's a typical summer for 14-year-old Shawn. He's hanging out with his friends and avoiding confrontations with the roving gangs of Crips and Pirus, who think they own the streets of Compton, where his aunt lives and where he goes to school. But as he gets older and life on the L.A. streets starts to get more dangerous, Shawn begins to think that he'd fare better in the suburb where his parents live, even though he'd be a latchkey kid. And after a particularly vicious fight with a group of older gang members and some embarrassing scenes with drunken Aunt Gertie, Shawn's parents agree that he should attend his local high school in the fall. Is Shawn willing to trade his friendships with his loyal boys, not to mention a budding relationship with Marisol, in exchange for calm and stability in a new school where he knows no one? This episodic tale moves at the pace of the longest, hottest days of summer–slow, slow, slow. Despite the gritty and realistically drawn inner-city setting, most readers won't be able to maintain their interest through endless descriptions of minor incidents that never seem to build to anything substantive. Even the story's climactic fight fails to spark any real movement in the plot. Smith does a commendable job evoking the sights and sounds of street life, but without strong plotting, this meandering novel doesn't satisfy.—Meredith Robbins, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School, New York City

Gr 5–8—When Quest (Q for short) Munoz's songwriting mom marries rock star Roger Tucker, he and new stepsister Angela join the sensational duo on the road for a national concert tour. Life on the bus goes from boring to bedlam as an old roadie named Boone and his dog, Croc, come aboard, and Dirk Peski, an appropriately named paparazzo, stalks their every move. Boone's preoccupation with the teens' safety and whereabouts and Angela's suspicions about being followed lead her to tell Q about her dead mother's connection to the Secret Service. Alternating chapters of italicized dialogue between a mystery man named Eban Lavi and an international cast of shady characters alert readers that this parallel action will somehow impact Q and Angela when they reach Philadelphia, the city where Angela's mother was killed in the line of duty. Speculation that she may have survived and become a terrorist fuels Angela's determination to find the truth. The pair uses natural tech savvy and Q's magician tricks to elude their followers and comb the city for clues. Preoccupied adults and bumbling spies provide a convenient plot contrivance for the sleuthing teens, but sheer numbers of extraneous characters muddle the story. The best-developed character, Boone, steals the show as the paternal, James Bond-loving intelligence officer whose crime-solving dog is a sidekick. Action lovers will find just enough substance to keep them coming back for future episodes.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 4–8—An erratum is a writer or publisher's error in printing, or an error list with corrections. In this story, the erratum is in the universe, and it is up to Jessica Sternhagen, age 10, and her friend Dale to make the corrections. When Jessica gets a copy of a book with a misprint in the title, Her Lif, she discovers that the book is all about her actual life. Its words change as she makes choices, and she proves to be a smart and courageous heroine as she faces danger and evil at every turn. Dale lives with his dysfunctional family in poverty, and Jessica lives in a nice house with her supportive parents. They have often wondered if they were born into the wrong family because they never felt that they belonged. Now it turns out that they were right, because in the process of saving the universe and stopping the evil alternate world from taking over, they discover that Jessica really belongs in the unhappy family on the wrong side of the tracks, and Dale is the one with the father who plays catch with his son and whose mother bakes cookies. Jessica must make the ultimate choice to stay with her "right" but unhappy family in this story in which Alice's Adventures in Wonderland meets The Giver, and choices do indeed have consequences.—Jake Pettit, Thompson Valley High School Library, Loveland, CO

Gr 6–10—Spinner's presentation of the Arthurian legends is told primarily through the voice of the Lady of the Lake. Damosel begins by explaining how she used her magical and metalworking abilities to create Excalibur for King Arthur, and how her cousin Nimue's involvement with Merlin led to his imprisonment. Damosel's involvement with Arthur's court continues when Merlin asks her to look after Arthur. She lives her life according to the rules that govern her kind, such as "A Lady Always Keeps Her Promises," but she learns that rules are made to be broken as she finds love and drama in Arthur's court. Damosel's narrative is interspersed with chapters from the perspective of Twixt, Arthur's dwarf court jester, who offers a more intimate and gritty picture of court life. The combination of these two unusual perspectives allows Spinner to create interest and suspense, even though readers know that the conclusion can only be Arthur's downfall. Fans of Arthurian legends will enjoy this new take on these familiar tales.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

Gr 7–10—Bianca Balducci is back on her third case. This time, the mystery hits closer to home as she and her PI sister, Connie, investigate their father's death. Upon learning that their mother is planning to marry the police officer closely connected to their father's shooting, Connie is determined to prove that their soon-to-be stepfather is a dirty cop who was covering his tracks on that night 17 years ago. Both girls want to believe that their father was a true-blue hero to the end, but what they uncover leads the case in a different direction. Aside from sleuthing, Bianca must balance school, an aloof college boyfriend, and her SAT scores. Even with the help of her sister, she seems to be in over her head with the good-cop/bad-cop scenario. Some of the data gathering seems far-fetched, like picking the lock of a crooked lawyer's file room with the underwire from her Wonderbra. Suspects conveniently pop up during lulls in the case, as well. The real draw to this story is Bianca's voice, which is strong, vibrant, confident, and vulnerable. Her insights into the emotional lives of other characters move the story along. With its light dose of teen issues, Recovering Dad is a good transition for fans of Nancy Drew to contemporary teen fiction.—Richelle Roth, Wilmington Public Library, OH

Gr 5–8—Barnaby Grimes is a tick-tock lad-an all-purpose messenger whose "highstacking" route carries him rapidly over the city's rooftops. He is suspicious when retired coachman Old Benjamin tells him about a miraculous cure offered free by Doctor Cadwallader. Then Benjamin vanishes mysteriously, and that same full-moon night, Barnaby is attacked by a vicious, wolflike animal. After intercepting a tardy message to Benjamin about keeping a now-missed appointment, Barnaby visits the doctor, thinking the man might need a more reliable delivery service, especially since a missed treatment could result in "side effects of the most unfortunate kind." Sure enough, Cadwallader hires Barnaby to take similar notes to other patients, all poor, lonely people who disappear soon after. What is the sinister doctor up to—and what is his relationship with the owner of a fashionable fur salon? The setting resembles Sherlock Holmes's London as seen in a shadowed, slightly warped mirror. There are hansom cabs, high-gabled row houses, and foul rat-infested slums, but mad scientists hold sway and fiendish creatures lurk in odd corners. Eerie, angular black-and-white drawings complement the atmospheric text. Fans of the macabre will enjoy this first entry in a series by the "The Edge Chronicles" (Random) creators.—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Gr 10 Up—This novel is set in Lesotho during the 1980s, when it was surrounded by a hostile South Africa. Kokoanyana is of Asian-Indian ethnic origin, and has lived her life in an isolated community, surrounded by secrets, especially regarding her father. Neglected by her mother, she is closest to a local woman employed by the family, and has grown up imbued with a traditional Basotho sense of the ancestors and the powerful spirits that inhabit the landscape. It is this sensibility, shot through with Hindu religious imagery and the threatening violence of apartheid, that infuses the heart of the narrative. Koko's half brother Sohrab is arrested by the police as the story opens, an event as mysterious to readers as it is to Koko. As she tries to unravel the mystery of her father's identity, it becomes clear that her family's history and fate are intimately connected to South Africa, and the situation becomes increasingly dangerous. The ghost of her stepfather comes back to help the family escape the soldiers. The story unfolds in magical realist fashion, with imagery alternately luscious and terse. After a powerful beginning, the narrative falters in the middle. However, it picks up considerably as the story moves toward its shocking and violent climax, and Koko is left to make autonomous choices about her life for the first time. The author's feelings for the landscape and the people come through powerfully. Red Sand, Red Dust demands patience from readers, but those who persevere will be rewarded.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

Gr 9–11—After his "pseudocide" in The Gospel According to Larry (2001) and his failed presidential race in Vote for Larry (2004, both Holt), Josh Swenson (aka Larry) returns home to Massachusetts a lost soul. When he discovers his old girlfriend studying with a guru named Gus, he decides to sign up and search for the meaning of life with her. The resulting adventures include the F.B.I., land mines, and the possibility of finding the father he never knew. The plot includes many circumstances that are very coincidental, a timeline that is inexplicable, and loving acts that are far too altruistic, even for Larry. But throughout, Josh/Larry maintains his desire to make a difference in this world, and his drive to do something goes into first gear, especially when he thinks that Walden Pond is going to be blown up. Tashjian's pace is tightly synchronized and it is worth it to trust her. Just when readers wonder how much more disbelief they can suspend, an explanation occurs and the seemingly implausible becomes believable. The serious world problem of land mines buried in over 80 countries and killing more than 70 people a day is addressed in one of Josh/Larry's footnotes. This is, after all, based on a manuscript submitted by Josh to the author, as she explains in her prologue and epilogue. Shining throughout is the character of Josh/Larry himself, a teen who will grab readers' interest, whether or not they have read the first two titles.—Sue Lloyd, Franklin High School Library, Livonia, MI

Gr 9 Up—Sutter Keely, a high school senior, is determined to live in the moment. He eschews planning for the future, intent on letting the good times roll. Sutter's been downing six packs since seventh grade and is rarely without his flask of Seagram's. Despite the heavy drinking and some raunchy sex talk, he is initially a likable character with a fresh and funny voice, but his affability wanes quickly and that voice just doesn't ring true. He meets Aimee when he passes out on her front yard. Sutter isn't really interested at first and only dates her because he considers her a project, someone he can help become less of a social outcast. Along the way, he begins to come off as condescending and egotistical and his sarcasm isn't as comic. It's a well-written book told in first person, but the narration seems much too sophisticated to be believable. He uses phrases like, "I am…sore at heart" and utters phrases like, "the room brimmed with padded chairs." Some of the plot is also disconcerting. As the result of Sutter's drunk driving, Aimee is struck by a car on a highway and suffers only a broken arm. The story ends with Sutter drinking in a bar, assured he's a hero after dumping Aimee, and rejoicing about feeling nothing.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School Library, Lancaster, PA

Gr 8–10—Zoe, 14, is used to moving, following her father's Alaskan fishing jobs or whatever work her mom can find. This coming move is different, though: her mother, sister, and brother are leaving the Northwest coast for the Midwestern prairie, and their father isn't coming with them. Amid construction on the ramshackle house that her mother has inherited, Zoe feels lost and angry, and blames her mom exclusively for the upheaval. After a minor shoplifting charge, she is sentenced to work for a gruff old man trying desperately to save the prairie he loves. The rippling grass is no substitute for the ocean she left behind, but from pulling out the invasive brush, she begins to understand what Hub says about everything needing space to grow. Gradually, grudgingly, she comes to terms with her new surroundings and finds her place in her family. Zoe's anger is realistic, but readers will lose sympathy for her when it turns to brattiness, and a subplot involving her falling for a boy feels extraneous. Conversations with adults are loaded with metaphors about love, loss, and starting over; they range from poignant to annoyingly forced. Still, though, the novel pushes all the right emotional buttons: family discord, cross-country moves, minor criminal activity, puberty, environmentalism, first love. Despite its flaws, this novel will find an audience with teen girls, particularly those dealing with one (or more) of Zoe's issues.—Brandy Danner, Wilmington Memorial Library, MA

Gr 7–9—In an old world where the lives of humans and Fae often intersect, the coming-of-age tale of Princess Aurelie and her friends of both species unfolds. Gifted as children by their young river drac friend, Loic, humans Aurelie, Garin, and Netta have grown up and gone their separate ways, no longer engaging with the Fae. As often happens in the move beyond childhood, the world becomes more complicated and difficult choices must be made. Aurelie is to inherit her father's kingdom and, as the heir apparent, must travel to a rival country—Skoe—in order to prevent war. Netta, cruelly blinded for revealing the sight, hides herself from her old friends. Garin is deeply enmeshed in a struggle for power in his own country of Skoe. Loic has also grown and realizes that the time has come to take a bride. He longs for the hidden Netta, but will settle for Aurelie. With little help from the adults in their lives, these fascinating young people (and one river drac) must find ways to overcome not only their own problems, but also the troubles brought about by greed and distrust. Political intrigue, star-crossed lovers, and the intermingling of two distinct worlds make for an exciting and intricate tale. The many characters and situations are fully realized and spellbound readers will be hoping for a sequel.—Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WI

Gr 4–7—Tyree may bill himself as "Mr. Creative," but his debut for young readers leaves some room for doubt. This collection of unrelated short stories is about 12 African-American preteens who find themselves in a variety of situations and settings. The selections are unoriginal and feature stereotypical characters, such as the loud-mouthed New York hoodlum who is sent to spend the summer with relatives in "Summer Down South" to the sports star (football, basketball, and baseball are all featured) in "Born Leader" and "Big Dreams." Despite the author's attempt to show growth, the characters seem one-dimensional, working solely within their stereotypes. Though they undergo a "change of heart," it feels hollow rather than sincere since most of the boys are helped out by sage elders who happen to step in at just the right time. Their preachy, moralistic viewpoints are eagerly embraced by the boys and result in happy "Chicken-Soup-for-the-Soul" endings. Even if young people are initially attracted to the graphics on the cover, none of the stories is engaging enough to keep them turning the pages.—H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL

Gr 7–9—Jessie has started Grade Nine in a new school in Estevan, Canada. One of her classmates, Kim, dislikes her and sets her up as the target of another bully, Marsha. On Halloween, Marsha and two boys appear at Jessie's door when her parents aren't home, leaving a path of destruction and taking her along for a night of mischief that lands her in a cell. On the recommendation of the town constable, who is also the coach, Jessie begins playing girls' ice hockey. The sport gives her an outlet and a fresh start, but her progress is put into question when Kim joins the team. The plot moves quickly because of all the action on the ice. Each teammate has a unique personality, and even the meanest characters turn out to be likable. Readers will relate to Jessie: she chats with her friends on the computer, dates, and has struggles with her parents. Her friends and teachers come to her rescue when the bullying becomes too much. Unfortunately, her parents are the last to know about the situation. Some lessons are imparted along the way, mainly about teamwork, forgiveness, and bullying. There are some drinking scenes. An author's note includes resources about bullying.—Lori A. Guenthner, Baltimore County Public Library, Randallstown, MD

Gr 6–8—Sammy Keyes is back, living her second 13th summer because her mother lied on her birth certificate to get her into school early. After two years of sneaking up and down the fire escape at the seniors-only residence where she lives with her grandmother, one would suppose that Sammy would not meet misadventure on her unique entrance to her home. But that's what happens when she assumes she has scared an elderly man to death after he has her toss three bundles of money into the bushes below. That event provides the mystery, and Sammy is off sleuthing again. The money is both trouble and a temptation as she retrieves it, keeps it secret, and spends it at the mall, buying her friend Marissa a bathing suit and giving some to Gram. Sammy is a whirlwind of activity, and the pacing is uneven as she spies on her friends from previous books, spies on elderly suspects, purchases a camera for sleuthing purposes, and gets a disguise. All of her old friends and enemies are back, and her budding romance with Casey Acosta continues. Van Draanen again deals with social issues with wit as Sammy charges through another mystery and walks a narrow line between opportunism and honesty.—Kathryn Kosiorek, formerly at Cuyahoga County Public Library, Brooklyn, OH

Gr 6–9—The saga of Mallory, a 16-year-old soap-opera prodigy who has begun production on her very own daytime show, continues. Life in the soap-opera production world has plenty of drama. Her leading man is trying to get himself fired, and her mother (a former soap star whose show was canceled so that Mallory's could be produced) is "spicing up" her role in the show with the support of the network execs. These same biggies want Mallory to "punch up" the show and make it more melodramatic, her real-life boyfriend is jealous of the leading male, and her former best friend is doing everything she can to make Mallory's life miserable. What's a girl to do? Well, she could try blackmail and kidnapping to make sure her show gets on the air. With more twists, turns, and intrigue than a daytime soap, this novel is great fun, and, of course, leaves readers with a "stay tuned tomorrow" ending. Written by David Levithan, David Ozanich, and Chris Van Etten, this sequel to Likely Story (Knopf, 2008) is sure to be a hit.—Janet Hilbun, Texas Woman's University, Denton

Gr 7–9—Things are anything but tranquil along the Peace River as Dewey starts seventh grade in Sand Mountain, FL, in 1966. From his nascent desire to wear blackface to play the part of the shoe-shine boy in next year's Rotary Club Minstrel show, to his dad's doomed run for city council that includes a plan to pave streets in Boogerbottom, the part of town where Negroes live, racial issues are underlying themes in the story. Layered above are Dewey's well-justified apprehensions about bullying at school, his "Americanism vs. Communism" class, and his lack of friends. Eighth-grade brother Wayne offers no help. Dancing lessons with Darla, a Shirley Temple wannabe about whom rumors circulate, and her "prissy" twin brother, Darwin, further confuse him. Vietnam vet Walter Wratchford, who rescues the miserable, soaked, dirty Dewey after he skips the first day of school to play at the creek, seems weird. The beauty is in the telling of this bildungsroman, as what is unspoken about the murky racism, sexual climate, and political realities of the time effectively build into a pervasive fog of unease. Readers will understand that Dewey's innocence dims his understanding of the politics of hate, but will easily identify with his deeply felt fears. And they'll share his wonder and confusion about his first kiss and first masturbatory sexual experience with Darla. Readers who enjoyed Gary D. Schmidt's The Wednesday Wars (Clarion, 2007) or Lance Marcum's The Cottonmouth Club (Farrar, 2005) will find sliding down Sand Mountain a faster ride, but infused with similar-and satisfying-gravitas.—Joel Shoemaker, Southeast Junior High School, Iowa City, IA

Gr 4–7—Petite Lauren, an eighth grader and Korean-American adoptee, is best friends with tall, blond Julie. While Julie is brimming with self-confidence, Lauren is plagued by a multitude of insecurities. Although she adores her father, a literature professor, she resents his refusal to talk about her mother, who died several years earlier. Eventually, she learns that he has been shielding her from the fact that her mother's depression led her to suicide. Williams invests Lauren with a disarming self-awareness as she analyzes and categorizes her own behavior using terms her father has taught her. When she pretends not to be appalled by her insensitive classmates calling her "slant," "chink," and "gook," she labels her behavior a "sin of complicity." Lauren seems comfortable with her ethnicity in many ways, but she has been squirreling money away for an operation to reduce the creases in her eyelids and is elated when her father reluctantly consents to the procedure. Julie emerges as a strong sidekick, cajoling Lauren to stand up for herself and telling stereotype-spewing kids to quit their offensive behavior. Other offensive ethnic putdowns, such as "kike," are used. Despite her many strengths, Julie obsesses about her weight and is embarrassed by her wealthy parents' ostentatiousness. The characters are exceptionally well drawn, and the friendship between Julie and Lauren is not only believable, featuring humor, conflict, and true wit, but also captures both girls' gains in maturity.—Deborah Vose, Highlands Elementary School, Braintree, MA

Gr 3–6—Gemma has always been a high-energy handful, and Alice has always been quiet and orderly—but those differences haven't stopped them from being best friends since the day they were born. Nothing will tear these two apart—except Alice's parents, who are making her move to Scotland. Gemma tries to cope, but she's overwhelmed by sadness and her fear that Alice might abandon her in favor of a new best friend. Her attempts to keep it together are complicated by her persona non grata status with Alice's parents. It takes a road trip and an incident with Alice's snooty new friend Flora to convince her that a best friend can move away without being lost forever. Wilson blends the spunk of Ramona Quimby with the impulsiveness of Joey Pigza, with the resulting disasters being about what one would expect. Gemma's emotional outbursts are understandable (if theatrical); she walks the fine line between grief-fueled temper and melodrama. If there are unsympathetic characters here, they are the girls' mothers: Gemma's mother's attempts at reassurance are to tell her daughter that she'll make new friends and will forget all about Alice; Alice's mother is pleased that the move separates the girls as she considers Gemma a bad influence. Readers will appreciate the reassurance that it's perfectly okay to feel sad and angry when a friend moves away.—Brandy Danner, Wilmington Memorial Library, MA

Gr 6–8—Eddie McCall is a great kid. He cooks dinner for his single mom, does his homework, and gets placed in advanced classes at school. When his friend, Whip, shows him a printout from the Internet of a naked woman, Eddie realizes why his mother won't let him on the computer. His mind is consumed with the picture; his curiosity and hormones are stirred. He worries that he is a 13-year-old pervert. His vigilant mother finds out what he and Whip are up to and sends Eddie to spend school break with his great-uncle in rural Indiana. Eccentric, tobacco-spitting Peavey is hardly what Eddie had in mind in his wish for a father figure. Yet, he gives the boy grandfatherly advice, especially when Eddie realizes who his father actually is and why his mother left Indiana and has never returned. As he wrestles with his newfound gene pool, Eddie begins to understand what being a father really means. He also meets a real girl, Ronnie, whom he realizes is much nicer than those cyber babes. In a sweet touch at the end, he repays Peavey's kindnesses by reconnecting the elderly man with the woman he loved as a youth. Woodworth perfectly captures an eighth-grade boy on the cusp of adolescence, struggling with his identity as he learns about himself, his family, and what is really important in relationships.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 9 Up—Asian-American Albert Kim, 16, is extraordinarily successful at cultivating his status as "intentional loser." Having chosen against academic summer camp, he takes a cleaning job at a nearby inn. His coworker, popular and beautiful Mia, has recently ended her long-term relationship with lacrosse team star Ryan and is using her job as a distraction. Although communication between Albert and Mia is initially strained, their sleazy supervisor's rejected advances toward Mia and his attempt to fire her draw the teens together. Their newfound friendship turns to romance before summer's end, but Albert's social status at school puts a strain on the relationship. When Ryan is diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease, Mia's constant support for him and his near-canonization make things even more difficult. Yoo deftly describes the charged emotions created when a popular community member is stricken by illness or injury; a candlelight vigil, fundraiser, and walkathon are poignant, comic, and unnerving. Although suburban high school life is expertly captured, the abrupt insertion of '80s and '90s pop-culture references detracts from the narrative. Mia might be a little too good to be true, but Albert is a funny, fascinating, and infuriating character. Laugh-out-loud moments and painfully realistic scenes of student life will hold readers' attention.—Jennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, Warrenton, VA

Gr 3–6—Living in Beijing with their large, loving families, Little Leap Forward and Little-Little are the best of friends. One day clever Little-Little captures a small yellow bird that he gives to Little Leap Forward. Though Little Leap Forward plays his flute and tries to get Little Cloud to sing, she remains silent. When the terrible disruptions of the Cultural Revolution begin, Little Leap Forward senses the fear and sadness of his friends and family. And as their lives become more and more constricted, he begins to understand why he must release his precious bird if he wants to hear her sing. Based on Guo's childhood, this is a gentle, lyrical story, yet the undercurrents of change and loss are strong. Though the metaphor of the bird is part of the fabric of the tale, the author never becomes moralistic or didactic, and the horrors of the Revolution never overwhelm the story. Because of this, the novel is suitable for readers younger than those who might pick up Ji-Li Jiang's Red Scarf Girl (HarperCollins, 1997), Chun Yu's Little Green (S & S, 2005), or Moying Li's Snow Falling in Spring (Farrar, 2008). The afterword includes a brief, accessible explanation of the Cultural Revolution. As a final plus, the book is beautifully designed. Kites, an important element in the story, are used on the elegant endpapers, and numerous illustrations, full of jewel-toned colors, are scattered throughout. In every way, this is a book to savor.—Barbara Scotto, Children's Literature New England, Brookline, MA

Gr 9 Up—Maggie Wishnick and her mother have moved to New York City, where Maggie is a senior at an elite girls' school. Each chapter opens with an observation about the habits of butterflies, those delicate and beautiful creatures known for their powers of transformation and survival. When three stylish, competitive girls invite Maggie to join their clique, the Revelers, her desire to belong helps her endure the process of initiation. Then they take her to see the Wall, their hidden scriptorium in the posh apartment of the Revelers' leader, Victoria, where they have posted stories and photographs documenting the dark secrets of other people. Maggie is a sympathetic protagonist who has secrets of her own about her parents' separation. Drama builds when she is assigned to "get the goods" on her friend, Anne Marie, only to learn that her betrayal helps Victoria to beat Anne Marie for the school's highest academic honor, the Golden Wreath. Maggie's narrative is sophisticated, with descriptive details of urban teen life and references to drinking and sex. In a rushed denouement that isn't fully convincing, the Wall is mistakenly unveiled during a teen party, and events spiral downward in the backlash. Maggie knows she must restore trust with her family, Anne Marie, and her boyfriend, and likens herself to a butterfly who will fly again. An entertaining novel that leaves readers with issues to ponder.—Susan W. Hunter, Riverside Middle School, Springfield, VT

Gr 9 Up—This slender volume asks more questions than it answers, but that is its goal. Aronson wants to know why people and nations hate Israel. While exploring this question, he looks at history and how Israel came to be; he covers its wars and examines the nation today. He asks how Israel can be both a democracy and a religious state. He compares the lives and attitudes of Jews in America to Jews in Israel—both groups came to their countries from other places, yet they have different attitudes about what a homeland is. Right from the start, Aronson makes it known that he is Jewish and has relatives living in Israel. He writes that he loves the country, but could never live there. He tries to maintain objectivity, and admits his close ties make that hard, but he says that Israeli citizens question their state and are not certain of their own feelings, so he is comfortable questioning them as well. Although the author writes clearly about Israel's history and states his questions and concerns plainly, the issues he raises are complex and potentially confusing. Still, his writing is lively and he includes many interviews and personal stories. For someone who knows almost nothing about Israel, this title gives a lot of information and forces readers to think deeply about morality, bigotry, politics, and religion. It is a fascinating look at a complicated country.—Geri Diorio, The Ridgefield Library, CT

Gr 5–8—Edison came of age in the latter half of the 1800s, when many important discoveries were being made, and he seized opportunities to collaborate with other leading innovators. These relationships, while often fruitful, sometimes led to disputes and/or lawsuits. The story of his life unfolds chronologically, with one experience building on the next and leading to discoveries both large and small. This most prolific inventor had an incredibly strong work ethic. He began experimenting when he was young, setting up small labs wherever he could, including on moving railroad cars. The book occasionally lapses into scientific jargon, which may be difficult for some readers to understand. Drawings, photographs, and diagrams are interspersed throughout. Denser and more detailed than Marfe Ferguson Delano's Inventing the Future (National Geographic, 2002), but not as appealing, this title would make a solid addition to biography collections.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 4–8—This lighthearted look at historical rumors about European rulers from Vlad Dracula to George III is full of humor, interesting facts, and insightful perspectives. Some of the rumors turn out to be true (Henry VIII's weight), some are false (Louis XIV's bathing habits), and several are still undecided (Richard III as a murderer). Examining their veracity is a clever hook that leads into a fascinating look at how gossip, literature, and other unreliable sources can be taken as truth over time. The author provides just enough introductory context and shares well-chosen anecdotes and facts in an engaging conversational style. Varied approaches keep each section fresh: a mock casebook presents the "rumor suspects" regarding the death of Catherine the Great, for example, and opposing arguments from fictional historians show both sides of the question of Peter the Great's actual "greatness." Comic portraits and other illustrations add to the irreverent tone. Mary I reaches from her picture frame to grab the crown of Elizabeth in one scene, and a lineup of males against a wall demonstrates Napoleon's taller-than-average stature, among other funny examples. The conclusion offers tips on how to use research to gauge the accuracy of historical rumors, and a bibliography cites multiple sources for each figure covered in the book. This humorous approach to history has strong booktalk potential, and also serves as a compelling introduction to the notion that separating fact from fiction can be challenging and fun.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 4–8—In a matter-of-fact tone that assumes ghost stories are true, Belanger relates White House encounters with the supernatural. "After all, where there are wars, there are ghosts," he states to explain the numerous sightings. Paranormal incidents like Dolley Madison defending her garden from would-be landscapers, Abigail Adams hanging laundry in the East Room, and many appearances of Lincoln are chronicled. The perspectives of presidents, statesmen, and other White House residents and employees who have personally experienced these apparitions are described. Primary documents—including letters, paintings, and photos—follow the history of the famous residence. Detailed colored-pencil illustrations successfully depict the ghosts as translucent figures while living characters are solid. While the book is a bit sensationalized, it is the quality of the research and presentation that make it an enticing resource to discover facts about the presidents, the White House, and American history.—Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

Gr 4–8—More than 40 recipes are included for celebrations from Shabbat to Lag B'Omer. Several introductions explain cooking tools, kitchen safety, and the general principles of keeping kosher, and brief background information is given for each holiday. Simple step-by-step instructions make the recipes easy, and some include shortcuts such as using store-bought dough. Each one makes clear whether the food is meat, dairy, or pareve (neither), and sidebars offer variants and cooking tips. For example, the recipe for "Chicken Noodle Soup" calls for butter or margarine, and suggests vegetable oil or olive oil as alternatives. Most of the recipes are traditional, including both Ashkenazic and Sephardic dishes, but there are a few creative twists such as "Savory Cheese Sofganiyot" (doughnuts) for Hanukkah instead of the usual jelly filling. Beautiful color photographs, both full page and spot, whet the appetite. While readers will garner only a superficial understanding of the holidays from this book, they will gain a great appreciation for Jewish flavors.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

Gr 9 Up—In this nuts-and-bolts guide, Brown offers candid advice about a very competitive process that focuses as much on eligibility (academics) as on athletic prowess. Coaches Debbie Southern (Furman University), John Cossaboon (Gonzaga University), and others tell readers what they look for in a student athlete. Citing passion for the game, ability to balance academics with sports, and willingness to learn, it is clear that athleticism is only part of the equation. The prospective student-athlete (PSA) will find NCAA timelines and visiting rules (which vary by division), scholarships by sport, and more. Chapters contain an outlined narrative in which bulleted information, charts and tables, and glossaries are integrated. Real-life successes and mix-ups appear throughout, including that of "Liz," a field hockey player who was dropped from recruitment because her email address contained her birth date, "420," a popular drug reference. Not limited to the recruitment process, the final chapters offer team rules and general college advice.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 3–6—The Bruchacs retell Native North American folktales in a clear yet bold voice. The anthology is arranged geographically, a logical organization that reveals the diversity of Native peoples, from the corn planters of the East to the buffalo hunters of the plains to the gatherers of California. Descriptions of each region introduce the original inhabitants of those places, as the authors provide succinct yet enriching historical and cultural context for the stories that follow; unifying themes are also discussed. And every tale, in turn, begins with a brief background and credit to the Nation from which it is derived. The individual stories are concise, spanning only a few pages, allowing them to be read in a single sitting, while the many animal personalities found within-some mischievous, some heroic-will capture the imagination of storytime audiences. A current of subtle profundity runs through these stories. Vitale's stylized oil-on-wood illustrations vividly reveal the colorful spirit of the tales, as bright blues and reds complement the earth tones found throughout. An annotated bibliography provides source notes and comparative analyses to other folktales from around the world. Similar to Margaret Mayo's When the World Was Young (S & S, 1996), Girl is effective in the amount of cultural background it provides, the simplicity of the text, and the beauty of the paintings.—Jeff Meyer, Slater Public Library, IA

Gr 5–8—These titles provide basic information about three of the most controversial aspects of the Vietnam War. Each book opens with a short description of a dramatic event, followed by a general overview of the topic. The authors give readers some background and enough information to help them understand the topics, but do not dwell on the graphic details of the battles, the mistreatment of POWs, or the murder of unarmed civilians. They also describe how the events sparked intense public debate and include the arguments made by all sides. All three books have large color and black-and-white photos and maps that supplement the texts and a Web site log-in so that students can access pre-screened Internet materials. Although titles such as Diane Saenger and Bradley Steffens's Life as a POW: The Vietnam War (Gale, 2001) offer much more detail and analysis, these books will be helpful to reluctant younger readers and researchers.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 8 Up—A wonderful reference for all monetary matters. Half of the book is a dictionary of economic terms, including further explanation of the more complex ideas. The other half is broken down into lessons, each about a different financial issue. The first three lessons focus mostly on the United States, looking at the inner workings and regulations of the economy by government. Others discuss the history of money and of national debt. "Monetary Trivia!" boxes offer scenarios about facts just learned. A smattering of small black-and-white pictures, graphs, and tables add to the text. Appendixes include a time line of major U.S. monetary events beginning in 1900, "Fascinating Financial Web Sites," and a list of acronyms. Overall the book is well organized, easily navigable, and clear. This volume will be especially useful for students taking economics classes or who just have some general questions. It's a great resource for beginners.—Melyssa Malinowski, Kenwood High School Library, Baltimore, MD

Gr 6–9—World-famous paleontologist Roy Chapman Andrews, heralded as a real-life Indiana Jones, apparently had more lives than a cat. He once opined, "I can remember just ten times when I had really narrow escapes from death." Here, readers get a fascinating glimpse of his near-death experiences and all of his adventures in between. Raised in Wisconsin, Andrews was an avowed naturalist from an early age. He dabbled in hunting and, by the time he was in high school, he was considered a local taxidermy expert. After college, he journeyed to New York where he begged for a job at the American Museum of Natural History, offering to scrub the floors in exchange for a position. His hard work, intelligence, and tenacity soon paid off, and Andrews began a series of expeditions ranging from a whaling excursion in the Pacific Northwest to a government-intelligence mission in the Far East. His adventures culminated in a voyage to Mongolia, where he and his team stumbled across one of the biggest finds in paleontological history: The Flaming Cliffs of the Gobi Desert, a veritable treasure trove of dinosaur fossils. Readers will be riveted by Andrews's exploits, including being marooned on a deserted island and surviving a typhoon in Japan. The text is supplemented by a few small photos.—Kelly McGorray, Glenbard South High School Library, Glen Ellyn, IL

Gr 4–6—Following a readable and humorous overview of the highly developed Aztec and Maya civilizations, this lively text lists 100 jobs that a young person might have held or aspired to during the Late Postclassic period in Mesoamerica (1350 to 1521). Twelve chapters list city-state jobs; pyramid temple-building opportunities; palace work; food and drink jobs; everyday crafts; luxury crafts; trade and market positions; temple placements; ceremonial jobs; military service; health and beauty occupations; and beast, bird, and bug work. Some of the careers sound like contemporary ones: professional ball player (okay, no version of ball that we know, but still) and midwife. Others, such as Volador or Calpulli Governor, are specific to the time and place. Taken as a whole, the descriptions of the vocations yield a rich view of the culture, and the breezy text makes this as much a browsing as a reference title. The colorful cartoon illustrations enhance the text, adding just the right artistic complement. An afterword tells what became of these complex cultures subsequent to the Spanish conquest, and a brief list of recommended reading and sound index round out the whole. Paired with Elizabeth Lewis's Mexican Art and Culture (Raintree, 2004), which is a more traditional informational book, this title would be a useful classroom tool. It remains, regardless, a solid purchase for elementary school and public libraries.—Ann Welton, Helen B. Stafford Elementary, Tacoma, WA

Gr 5–8—Deem's lucid account explores mummified remains recovered from several glacial locations and time periods. The many discoveries presented include the famous 5300-year-old Alpine Iceman Ötzi, the mummified Incan children of the Andes Mountains, and the identification of George Mallory's body on Mount Everest. The background and methodology of glaciology are examined, as are relevant issues in climate change and archaeology; historical photographs of glaciers are compared to modern photographs of the same, much-receded ice. Full-color photographs, reproductions, and maps are clearly captioned; grand images of glaciated mountain peaks span entire pages, and detailed pictures of recovered objects, including the mummies themselves, the Iceman's ax, and surviving fabric fragments are presented. To nitpick one point, Deem states that scientists "don't understand" why the Ice Age glaciers retreated, instead of mentioning the Milankovitch cycles as a consensus explanation. Nonetheless, this volume provides updated information, including new insights into the causes of the Iceman Ötzi's death. With its extensive bibliography, suggested Web sites, and a listing of glaciers to visit, Bodies is a fantastic resource. Deem superbly weaves diverse geographical settings, time periods, and climate issues into a readable work that reveals the increasing interdisciplinary dimensions of the sciences.—Jeff Meyer, Slater Public Library, IA

Gr 3–6—While this cookbook is less chatty than one might expect from the well-known television personality, it opens with a host of tips. It includes safety information, followed by an illustrated glossary of cooking terms, directions on how to measure ingredients, instructions on how to set a table, and a page devoted to good table manners. Nine chapters cover breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, birthdays, adult-oriented dishes, holidays, and drinks, with the last one devoted to nonedible food-craft recipes. The illustrated items list can assist those with limited reading skills who find negotiating the step-by-step instructions challenging. Adult assistance is often called for. The dishes use numerous premade or prepackaged ingredients (refrigerator biscuits, peanut butter, diced tomatoes, M&Ms, etc.). Nutritional information is not provided. Watercolor illustrations of ingredients, finished dishes, and children at work are numerous and each page is framed with a colorful pattern. While the spiral format may shorten this book's shelf life, it will facilitate use for the youngest chefs.—Sara Rofofsky Marcus, Yeshiva Har Torah, Little Neck, NY

Gr 6–10—Dower has crafted a fun-filled, well-designed book chock-full of facts, trivia, and advice. Beginning with a letter that urges girls not to read the book from start to finish, but rather to savor the entries at random, the author includes the silly ("Menu of the World Weird"), the practical ("How to Write a Thank You note"), the mystical ("Phrenology anyone?") and the sage (tips on going green). Where's a great hiding spot for your secret journal? What's the deadliest diamond ever? Which talisman will bring you the most luck? These questions and more are answered. The design and illustrations are spot-on. In what could be a very busy text, the layout complements the words beautifully, creating a visually appealing package. The "For Girls Only SuperQuiz" is a tween/teen version of Myers-Briggs Type Indicator that's just plain fun. Also included is a bonus Tarot card, secreted between the pages of fortune-telling and luck entries. While the book does not address anything new or different, it stands out for its witty presentation.—Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta

Gr 9 Up—This collection examines the role of blogs in American politics and culture, their value to the public, and ethical and legal issues they raise. The 23 well-written essays are by a diverse group of respected authors and were all written in 2004 or later. Nearly half of them are unavailable online. However, students will likely find the content dense and too esoteric for their assignments and will turn to the Internet, where a wealth of resources on this topic exists.—Jane Cronkhite, San Jose Public Library, CA

Gr 7–10—A recounting of the fatal Antarctic exploration led by Englishman Robert Falcon Scott. The story is told from the point of view of journeyman Apsley Cherry-Garrard and is based on his experiences as recorded in The Worst Journey in the World. The author incorporates numerous primary sources, including diaries, letters, and black-and-white reproductions and archival photographs that aid in capturing Garrard's mindset and that of the other members of the expedition. The goal of the trip was to find the South Pole, with an offshoot expedition to collect samples of the fabled Emperor penguin's eggs. Though dialogue was obviously re-created, and some assumptions are made regarding the thoughts and feelings of crew members, Farr's writing is engrossing and his accounts of the hardships and near-death experiences the explorers faced are harrowing. The accompanying maps, photographs, and drawings complement the text, though some of them break it up at odd intervals. This title will appeal to readers looking for an adventure story and to history buffs.—Kelly McGorray, Glenbard South High School Library, Glen Ellyn, IL

Gr 9 Up— Falling Hard was compiled mostly by email from teenagers from many different backgrounds, and with different sexual orientations. Only their names and ages are given. The poems are written in free verse and are honest, sometimes explicit, and creative (there is an ode to a piano, and a "Pledge of Affection to a Nerd"). Love is variously compared to a psychic leech and the sting of a bee. Some of the poems have strong language. Interracial relationships, being gay ("Kiss a guy, get a man/Be a bi, lend a hand"), sex, break-ups, flirting, the intensity of love ("blinding flashing lightning in my guts") and jealousy are among the topics addressed. "Blackberries" by Emma Marlowe, age 17, uses vivid images of "flying on wings of hemp and silver/waxing sunlight crackles through dust/gold glass on a poisoned oak" and "I had to brush my taste to keep the teeth of him/out of my head."—Ann Nored, Wilson Central High School, Lebanon, TN

Gr 4–8—Another stunning work from the nonfiction virtuoso. In a gripping, gritty account of the months that General Washington and his troops spent camped at Valley Forge, Freedman deftly brings to life this storied, nearly mythic period of the Revolutionary War. Vivid depictions of the harsh realities, not just the difficult winter weather, but also the lack of food, supplies, and clothing, all came together to create a perfect storm of misery that led to low morale, desertions, and death. Using first-person accounts from a variety of sources, Freedman offers a stirring portrait of a man who not only demanded that Congress step up its support of the troops, but who also brought in military experts to help transform the ragtag militia into a unified, trained military force. Everything—from quotes to images—is impeccably sourced, and a thorough, annotated bibliography is appended. Interwoven throughout are sepia-toned images that range from photographs of historical sites to reproductions of period artwork, which help to immerse readers in the era. Pair this with Thomas B. Allen's George Washington, Spymaster (National Geographic, 2007) and the man behind the legend becomes more intriguing and real to budding historians. An excellent choice for every collection.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 6 Up—Friedman gives an overview of Islam, terrorism, oppression of women, respect for human rights, and a clash of civilization. While the format is user-friendly, the book's content is peppered with subjective narrative and factual error. The overview states that Islam was founded by Muhammad, but it declares its origin from Prophet Adam. The author states that Abu Bakr was Muhammad's uncle and raised him. Abu Bakr was Muhammad's friend and later became his father-in-law; he was not an uncle. There is mention of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are rituals, but nothing is said about the Seven Articles of Faith, the bedrock of Islam. The postures for salah are inaccurate. Zakat, the third pillar of Islam, is to help the poor but it is false to say that it is to "help the spread of Islam." The hajj practice originated with Abraham; here it is attributed to Muhammad. The author says Islam has subjugated women and suggests that honor killings are linked to the religion. Islam liberated women and unequivocally outlawed the killing of girls, which was a common practice in pre-Islamic Arabia. These historical facts are well documented even in the West. This book contains many primary-source quotes, but its bias, inaccuracies, and misinformation make it a poor choice for libraries.—Fawzia Gilani-Williams, Oberlin Public Library, OH

Gr 6 Up—This informative book includes an awesome introduction by Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth and is written by Goodmark, aka Sprout, of the female hip-hop group Northern State. It shows the ins, outs, and good and bad things that come with starting a band and making it successful. Even though the title might imply that rock is the focus here, other genres of music are heavily referenced. The conversational tone and quizzes throughout give the presentation the feel of a teen magazine. Readers will learn about everything that needs to be done—from deciding what kind of band they want to planning a first rehearsal, feeling comfortable onstage, and dealing with tough personal situations that inevitably come up. Clever cartoon illustrations appear throughout; they are especially helpful in explaining the difference between the different kinds of amps and the right kinds of cables and cords to use. Not only does this book provide the technical assistance newbie musicians might need, but it also provides advice on choosing a band name and more emotional topics like how to find creative inspiration. This is a wonderful guide for any girl who wants to start a band but feels it might be way too difficult to even think about. Goodmark makes it all sound like a fun adventure.—Traci Glass, Eugene Public Library, OR

Gr 3 Up—This book offers an overview of the careers of the husband-and-wife team that has been creating large outdoor art installations since the 1960s. The authors begin by detailing the process that led to the unveiling of The Gates in New York's Central Park (2005), then dip back to 1935, when the artists were born, and provide some biographical information. Christo's early career is touched upon with the inclusion of Wrapped Toy Horse (1963) and various small-scale works. Images are predominately full-page color spreads (there's a foldout of Christo in his studio and, on the other side, The Gates) with some black-and-white personal photos. Readers will be impressed with the ambitious creations and may want to know more about them. This visually appealing title is a solid choice where there is interest in the subject.—Lisa Glasscock, Columbine Public Library, Littleton, CO

Gr 5 Up—In these solid introductions, Gunderson describes how art trends, politics, and inventions informed the work that was produced during each movement. For example, the development of the daguerreotype made it feasible for artists to paint from photographs during the rise of Realism. Each book provides an overview of the movement and its key players in continuous prose that is broken up by an occasional highlighted section of text. The color photographs, illustrations, and reproductions, many of them full page, are relevant and of high quality. The content is not as clearly delineated as in the "Artists in Profile" series (Heinemann Library), where each artist receives a separate entry under a bold heading, but Gunderson's images are superior and the texts deliver well-rounded accounts that students will find accessible.—Lisa Glasscock, Columbine Public Library, Littleton, CO

Gr 10 Up—This collection of personal stories, poems, and art by young Canadian women is a true testament to the power of the arts in girls' lives. The selections give expression to teens' struggles and joys. The themes are universal: "voices: telling truths about ourselves and our girlhoods"; "beauty: rants & reflections on love, desire & the beauty beast"; "strength: speaking out about our struggles & calling for change"; and "becoming: tales of where we've been & visions of where we're going." Among the standouts are Kyra Shaughnessy's "Forget Me Not," a teen's musings on her place in the world, and Claire Heisler's haunting poem, "In My Head," which offers a glimpse of a young girl's image of self filtered through her mind's eye. Diana Biacora's "Open Letter," a powerful story of immigration, is a journey of self-acceptance and discovery. Especially poignant is Hannah Schultz-Durkacz's "when you're yourself," a letter to her former BFF. Anonymous's "Finding the Pieces" is a heartbreaking story of a young girl learning to trust after her birth mother gives up parental rights. The only weak spot is the artwork-the quality of the reproductions does not always do justice to the selections. This exploration of the up and downs of being female is sometimes raw but always real. It is sure to strike a chord with its intended audience.—Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta

Gr 9 Up—Hillstrom provides readers "with an objective, historical overview" of the 1973 Supreme Court decision and "its impact on the political, cultural, and social landscape of the United States." In doing so, she presents students with an invaluable reference for reports. The first section provides a history of abortion and abortion-reform movements, the Roe v. Wade case, and challenges that the decision has faced and continues to face. Hillstrom's writing is concise, objective, and engaging throughout. She clearly defines unfamiliar terminology and convincingly defends her use of the terms "pro-life" and "pro-choice" as widely accepted by these groups. She also succinctly illustrates that the topics of birth control and abortion are parallel debates. Ten four- to five-page biographies comprise the second section, offering background on figures from Margaret Sanger to Robert Bork. The final part, "Primary Sources," includes the texts of essays, articles, party platforms, and more (all introduced) in support of positions on both sides of the debate. Black-and-white photos, political cartoons, and pull-quotes appear throughout.—Wendy Scalfaro, G. Ray Bodley High School Library, Fulton, NY

Gr 6–9—Clear writing, well-placed black-and-white photographs, and extensive research combine to illuminate Jackson's extraordinary life. Chapters on his childhood in rural Frewsburg, NY, his successes on the high school debate team and as a young orator, his law apprenticeship, and his experiences at Albany Law School are included. Jarrow also details how Jackson became an adviser to Franklin Delano Roosevelt, was elected to the Democratic Party's state committee, and made a name for himself as one of the nation's top trial lawyers. Moving up the political ladder, Jackson was appointed to the positions of solicitor general and attorney general, and then to the Supreme Court. When World War II ended, he became the chief prosecutor of the Nuremberg Trials, representing the United States government in these historic international proceedings. The author's treatment of the trials is perhaps the most interesting portion of the book and will be especially useful to social-studies teachers looking for supplemental information for World War II and Holocaust curricula. An impressively detailed and fascinating treatment of a little-known yet important figure in American history.—Rachel Kamin, North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, Highland Park, IL

Gr 8 Up—Jiménez, the son of Mexican immigrants, left behind a life of hard work and poverty when he entered Santa Clara University in 1962. Here, he chronicles his college years and introduces people who befriended him as well as those who had prejudices against Mexicans. Throughout his story, the difficulties of his transition from family life to college life are evident. His palpable fear of failure was mitigated by those who helped him recognize his worth and develop and strengthen his character. The book ends as he is bound for graduate school at Columbia University. This sequel to Breaking Through (2001) and The Circuit (1999, both Houghton) again brings to the forefront the daily trials of poor immigrant families. The author poignantly relates his family's struggles and how their teamwork enabled him to attend college. While the book relates his trials and successes, it also tells how his family members overcame their own obstacles. Using the style of a good storyteller, Jiménez gives voice to strong familial bonds with an intensity that is both compelling and honest. The family photographs at the end of the book add a nice touch.—Sharon Morrison, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Durant, OK

Gr 5–8—Johnston offers thoughtful responses to war's senseless violence. Her free-verse word pictures call to mind scenes of terrible devastation: bodies lying crumpled in the street and homeless dogs "nosing along barren streets/for tidbits never found." Lives are wiped away in an instant when a bus explodes, homes and lives are shattered, yet Johnston finds cause for hope amid the grimness. A mother bravely tends a wounded soldier, a rosebush clings to life through drought and war, and a soccer game brings a respite: "The soldier's face remembers/it has a smile." Johnston adds her own voice, the sympathetic observer from afar, sending prayers for peace. Guevara's paintings, crafted with acrylic and oil paint with collage on textured canvas, feature subdued, neutral colors and haunting images, such as the poignant cover painting of a small girl clinging to the back of a dove. Through prayers and healing words, Johnston hopes that a new landscape can be woven: "A world/with peaks of kindness,/orchards branched with good,/rivers swollen with peace." Teachers will appreciate this measured response to the subject.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 9 Up—In the history of any culture, or indeed of the world, there are arguably years that are of greater significance than others. The events of 1939 and 2001 come to mind, and the argument of this book is that 1968 was likewise a watershed year with people rising across the globe to assert their own power and voice. Divided into 10 sections, the fluid prose treats topics such as the Tet Offensive; tensions on the U.S. home front engendered by the Vietnam War; the assassinations of Martin Luther King, Jr., and Bobby Kennedy; the student uprisings in Paris and at Columbia University; the Prague Spring; demonstrations at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago; the summer Olympics in Mexico City; and the Apollo 8 Mission, which, on December 26, 1968, beamed back the first pictures of Earth as seen from space. Arranged chronologically, the narrative puts these events and others into their proper sequence and notes how they echoed and influenced one another. Numerous excellent-quality black-and-white photos augment the text, and each section begins with a facsimile of the front page of the New York Times, showing how each event was reported. The full text of each article is appended, along with source notes and an excellent index. Read cover to cover, 1968 serves not just to explain but also to clarify the meaning of events. Students will be well served by this extensively documented treatment.—Ann Welton, Helen B. Stafford Elementary, Tacoma, WA

Gr 7–10—Both books cover their topics thoroughly and include high-quality photographs and occasional sidebars. Lace's account of the airship has a good deal of intrigue and drama and could be useful for reports or recreational reading. The author does a good job telling the stories of the various passengers and how some of them were later suspected of sabotage. Reis includes solid research and numerous points of view in recounting the Dust Bowl, but the book is more likely to be picked for research projects than for pleasure reading. Both titles are serviceable additions.—Marcia Kochel, Olson Middle School, Bloomington, MN

Gr 3–6—Focusing on some of our nation's pivotal historical events, this series asks readers to put themselves in the position of key decision makers. The brief chapters are chronological and focus on a specific situation or turning point, ending with a "What would you do?" text box. A question specific to the situation is posed along with one to three possible answers or outcomes. The following chapter reveals the actual decision before moving on to the next turning point. Drawing young readers into history in this here-and-now style will keep them engaged and focused. Although the content doesn't always match the level of the questions, enough information is provided to form an opinion. Answering the questions in a more thoughtful way will require further reading and research that goes beyond the reading level of these titles. Illustrations include art reproductions, maps, and primary-source materials. Under the guidance of a skillful teacher/adult, these titles and their questions will be useful for all sorts of activities. The cover design and titles will draw in browsers.—Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI

Gr 9 Up—Understanding what stress is, what causes it, how the body and the mind are impacted by it, and what teens can do are the general categories addressed here. More specific topics include stress as it relates to parents fighting, personal relationships, test anxiety, and sports stressors. Suggestions are offered for places to go for help online and in one's community, as well as music-relaxation ideas and journaling topics. The chapters are brief but informative, and the list of community-help organizations is exhaustive. Report writers will find information quickly and easily, as will those who have personal concerns. The print is clear and the format is readable, making this an accessible resource for struggling readers and researchers.—Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Gr 3–6—Nine stories, based on interviews with the grateful survivors, describe how brave animals rescued people in catastrophic circumstances. Each edgy retelling reveals details that only the participants could know, including sounds, smells, sights, and the knowledge that at any moment they could die, deepening the tension. Mixed in are Markle's broad and perfectly attuned insights about animal behavior. The text describes the loyalty of a small pooch watching over his elderly owner, licking his face to keep him awake during a night spent in Katrina's flood waters. It also demonstrates the mothering instincts of a western lowland gorilla that tenderly protected a toddler who had fallen into a zoo enclosure. Background information includes a page about the Mountain Locator Unit used in one rescue and descriptions of carbon dioxide poisoning and hypothermia. Many of the photographs were taken from photo archives and fluctuate from fuzzy to clear, yet as such bring even more reality into the mix. All of the tales end with satisfying afterwords that summarize the outcomes.—Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA

Gr 4–8—On her first day watching over her Mayan grandfather's cornfields, young Ixkem is invited by the b'e'n, spirits in the form of small humans, to visit them underground. They feed her generously and she tells them stories that explain Mayan customs and include bits of folklore. Before her return, the nahuales give her a great secret, which she passes on to her 100-year-old grandfather, allowing him to die peacefully. This story frames a somewhat disjointed collection of tales that show how humans are the smartest creatures; how Mayans fall in love, get married, and have children; how they can be both bad and good; and how important it is for people to help each other. Menchú is a Mayan activist who shared a Nobel Peace Prize; Liano a prize-winning Guatemalan author for adults now living in Italy. The Mexican artist Domi has provided bright paintings in a naturalistic, folk-art style. The lyrical translation preserves the storyteller's voice. This companion to The Honey Jar (Groundwood, 2006), by the same team, will be equally useful in multicultural collections.—Kathleen Isaacs, Towson University, MD

Gr 9 Up—This title presents different opinions on the gateway theory of drug use in a fair and unbiased manner. Its strength is the way it frames the information to aid student comprehension. Each article is introduced with a paragraph that provides an overview and the qualifications of the author followed by a list of questions for students to consider while reading that specific piece. A few graphs and black-line cartoons emphasize some points. Articles are current, many with a copyright date of 2007 and none older that 2000. While the gateway effect is mentioned in some books on marijuana, there doesn't seem to be any other volume devoted to the topic.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School Library, Lancaster, PA

Gr 6 Up—A look at the origins of the many diverse Native peoples living primarily in what is now the United States. The seven chapters are prefaced by a discussion of the challenges facing archaeological research, caused mainly by the cultural gap between mostly white scholars and the customs and beliefs of Native tribes. The first chapter examines the various theories regarding the populating of North America, such as Native creation myths and stories, biblical inferences, and the more widely accepted Asiatic land-bridge theory. Each subsequent chapter briefly discusses the inhabitants of distinct geographical regions and subregions: the West, Great Plains, Southeast, and the Northeastern Woodlands. The book concludes with a cursory look at Native American weapons and warfare and ends somewhat abruptly with the coming of the Europeans, with mention of the Trail of Tears and the Wounded Knee massacre. The terms American Indian, Indian, Early Inhabitants, Native Tribes, Natives, and Native American are used interchangeably. The layout is attractive with clear photographs and colorful period illustrations. Overall, this is a concise resource for introductory reports.—Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 8 Up—This is a disappointing look at what should be an exciting topic. The coverage is superficial, barely skimming the surface. (For instance, there is no mention of Jacques Necker, the Marquis de Lafayette, Charlotte Corday, or the Marseillaise.) The writing is ponderous, stodgy, and boring. Most of the quotes are neither enlightening nor inspiring, and there is a decided deficiency of human-interest stories and anecdotes. The illustrations rely heavily on dreary group scenes, adding little to the text. A check of footnotes shows sloppy research. Students would do better to check the adult shelves for material on this era.—Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—From the first steps of forming a band through going on tour, Punk Rock Etiquette provides how-to advice on aspects of the indie and underground music scene. Nichols's narrative has a "been there and done that" tone and borders on the cheesy, as it at times tries too hard to use teen slang, but his advice is valuable even beyond the rock environment. Suggestions are offered for silk screening posters and T-shirts, designing Web pages, and using social networking sites to help create a brand, all of which could apply as easily to poetry-slam hosts and other creative groups as to rockers. For would-be performers, the author provides sage advice on recording and tips on touring, from what vehicles to use to what to pack. Parents and advisors should be aware that tour tips include sleeping in cars while traveling cross country or staying at the homes of strangers, practices that seem unsafe, particularly for teens. In areas where many students are hoping to make their way in the music world, however, the good advice is valuable and will appeal to a broad audience. The illustrations, spread throughout, are most successful in the comic of one band's road trip in the middle of the book. In other places, the animal characters are so cute that it is hard to tell if Nichols is being ironic, which would appeal to his audience, or if he felt that the cuteness would gel with the punk rock style.—Alana Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT

Gr 4 Up—This handsome photo-essay features contemporary Afghan children ranging in age from 8 to 18 years. They were asked about their families, lives, and hopes for the future. The young people's straightforward statements tell much about the devastating effects of decades of war. Some of them are still able to attend school; others wish they could. Even the youngest children work part of the day, often at street markets or in their family businesses, such as rug making. Two 10-year-olds pick pockets to survive. The matter-of-fact way they describe losing parents, siblings, and homes to war is jarring. Overall, the book provides a sensitive, poignant, and respectful look at the lives of these young people. It avoids sentimentality and politicizing. While the book will need an introduction, it offers Western children insight into a country and society often featured in the news. This is a timely, relevant, and well-executed offering.—Heide Piehler, Shorewood Public Library, WI

Gr 4–7—This fictionalized account of a young prospector and entrepreneur's gold rush adventures is presented as if it were an actual historical document recorded between 1849 and 1851. Both an editor's note at the outset and an afterword by Marc Aronson stress the fact that Thomas Hartley's existence cannot be verified. That said, Hartley's journey takes himself and two companions from Connecticut to the California gold fields via the Panama land passage and, ultimately, two years later, back again (wealthier and wiser) to reunite with his family and sweetheart. An antique-looking ledger sheet records his income and expenses on each page as he earns and loses money in various exploits, which include meeting greedy con men, gold strikes, and gambling losses in San Francisco. Old-fashioned language and tongue-in-cheek humor are used throughout. An excellent list of further reading and online resources accompanies the "Encyclopedia of the Gold Rush," in which unusual words and historical figures are defined and described. Richly illustrated with a mix of historically authentic lithographs and "Thomas Hartley's" drawings, this book is a colorful and lively introduction to the period for young history buffs.—Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Normally books on drugs, particularly those about marijuana, contain a section devoted to legalization. This book looks at marijuana, but also includes information regarding the legalization of a variety of other controlled substances. A beginning overview provides readers with relevant background and context. Chapters begin by posing questions such as, "Would legalizing drugs decrease crime?" or "Would legalizing drugs increase drug addiction?" The book provides different opinions, documented facts, and primary-source quotes to guide readers in forming and articulating their own responses. Color photos, charts, and graphs are interspersed. Lists of key people, advocacy groups, and related organizations complete the volume. Useful for persuasive writing and speaking assignments.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School Library, Lancaster, PA

Gr 5–8—These glossy titles offer attractive photos in an engaging layout. However, the presentations outshine the content. None of the books have a table of contents, and all begin with a cursory overview of the state, followed by brief chapters of history, ecology, and culture. The type is small and dense, and the events in the time lines along the bottom of the pages do not correspond to the content on the page. Back material includes a short list of quick facts, index, a brief bibliography, and a large and detailed map of the state. Unfortunately, the text on the California map is too small to read, and Alaska's Aleutian Chain is cut short.—Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

Gr 6–9—Ransom recounts Walker's childhood spent helping her widowed mother, who had been a slave, make a living as a laundress while attending Richmond, VA's segregated public schools. As a teen, she stood up for equal treatment for her classmates and as a young woman she became a leader of the Independent Order of St. Luke, a fraternal society serving the local African-American community. Because African Americans were discouraged from shopping in white-owned stores and banned from white-owned restaurants, she encouraged her friends and neighbors to start their own businesses. She became the first woman in the United States to charter a bank, believing that her community could turn "nickels into dollars" by pooling their money together and lending it out. While Walker's story is inspiring, the text is a bit dense, and readers may lose sight of the overall significance of her achievements among details of her many activities. The text is thoroughly researched and well organized but the style is a bit dry. Good-quality archival photographs add interest and clarity. A solid selection for report writers.—Mari Pongkhamsing, St. Perpetua School, Lafayette, CA

Gr 9 Up—Teens know that the right to free speech is covered in the First Amendment—but what does that mean to them? Raskin, a constitutional law professor, puts that right, along with several others, into context, highlighting Supreme Court cases that affect students and schools. The book is organized into 10 chapters, opening with a brief overview of what the Constitution is and what it does before discussing free speech, censorship, religion, property searches, discipline, discrimination, harassment, and disabilities. Each chapter offers brief commentaries about cases that were argued before the justices and the text of the Court's decision (edited for brevity and clarity). In most instances, excerpts from the dissenting opinions follow the majority decision, presenting a balanced view of how the ruling was arrived at. Between the cases are exercises and discussion questions for students to further explore what they've learned. Sidebars provide definitions of legal terms and biographical information on some of the Supreme Court Justices. Appendixes include the full text of the Constitution and amendments and a comprehensive index. The text is well organized, easy to understand, and, most importantly, up-to-date. Raskin references decisions and incidents that occurred as recently as late 2007, illustrating how decisions of the past are being supported—or revisited—today. The writing is engaging and will spark students' curiosity about these issues. This excellent resource should be in all government classrooms.—Brandy Danner, Wilmington Memorial Library, MA

Gr 9 Up—Rather than a series of point/counterpoint articles, this book contains single chapters that each pose a question, e.g., "Is human cloning ethical?" and provide background and information in support of different responses to a specific controversy. Each chapter also includes a useful selection of related primary-source material. Throughout, Roleff gives necessary background in genetics to help students understand how cloning works. The technical language becomes a bit overwhelming in the chapter "Is Embryonic Stem Cell Research Ethical?" when the difference between pluripotent embryonic and multipotent adult stem cells is discussed. Those concepts are tackled and explained in as simple a way as possible, but the vocabulary and concepts are understandably daunting. Still, compared to titles such as John Woodward's The Ethics of Human Cloning (Gale, 2004), this is a more visually appealing and user-friendly title. It includes full-color graphs, charts, and photos, and the text is broken into manageable subsections. The book has information on key people and advocacy groups and a useful list of related organizations with print, phone, and Web contact information.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School Library, Lancaster, PA

Gr 4–6—King Minos's wife Pasiphae falls in love with a bull, and the rest is history. Well, mythology. This informative exploration of the Minotaur story covers its origin, the dreadful tribute of 14 Athenian youths sent to Crete each year to fight the Minotaur, and the hero Theseus's defeat of the monster in the Labyrinth. The final chapter discusses the Minotaur in popular culture, including Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series (Hyperion), video games, and the namesake rocket. Color illustrations include reproductions of Greek frescoes and some sketches and photographs. This is a useful resource for reports or for readers interested in learning more about the story.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

Gr 7 Up—While these titles focus on teens, general information is offered as well. As evidenced, some aspects of young adult life are universal. "Like teens everywhere, South African teens enjoy dating." As in America, many Filipinos between ages 15 and 18 hold part-time jobs, often working in fast-food restaurants. And yet, the lives of teens vary greatly, even within their own countries, depending on their place in society. The poorest South African teens still reel from the effects of apartheid. Some live with HIV. Forty-four percent of young Filipinos are worried they'll never find a job. Each title is filled with colorful, contemporary photographs showing young people from all walks of life. Solid, engaging supplemental fare.—Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 4–8—Simple and straightforward discussions of the subjects. The layout of both books is attractive and inviting, with full-color photographs and/or diagrams on almost every spread. In addition, the authors make good use of fact boxes. In Forces and Motion, readers are introduced to contact forces, forces at work, simple machines, motion and gravity, etc. Matter discusses the states of matter, the elements, chemical reactions, and more. Both titles will interest browsers and provide ample information for reports.—Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Gr 5–8—Women's history continues to be a burgeoning field, especially the study of women who fought in the Civil War. Silvey offers insights into the soldiers' daily lives in hospitals and prisons and on the battlefields, including Antietam and Bull Run. Interjected into this brief survey are the stories of the women, some of whom joined the military, both Union and Confederate, to follow their husbands or sweethearts, and others who were passionate about the cause and wanted to defend their homeland. Still others wanted adventure or wished to escape from poverty. Lieutenant Harry T. Buford was, in fact, Loreta Janeta Velazquez and served as a Confederate officer at the First Battle of Bull Run. Sarah Emma Edmonds, born in Canada, left a harsh farm life and enlisted in the Michigan Volunteers. Jennie Hodgers served for three years as a member of an Illinois infantry unit and continued to live as a man for the next 40 years. Her true identify was not discovered until her death in 1911; nonetheless she was buried with full military honors. These are a few of the intriguing stories told in this well-researched book. Another highlight of the book is the use of archival photographs and reproductions. This title can serve as a springboard for further reading and inspire exploration of primary accounts.—Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 7–9—Bohr made substantial contributions to the modern understanding of atomic structure and quantum mechanics, earning a Nobel Prize in physics in the process. He is also well known for his work for the Manhattan Project. In this update of the 1995 edition (Chelsea House), Spangenburg and Moser delve into Bohr's background and present him as a loving, talkative, and inquisitive person who liked soccer. He was also concerned about the consequences of his work with nuclear weapons and was involved in many humanitarian efforts. His family and professional life are depicted in numerous photos that are integrated into the text. New content includes informational sidebars and a discussion of string theory, a specialized field within physics. An acceptable addition for libraries that do not own the first edition.—Caroline Geck, Newark Public Schools, NJ

Gr 5–9—This title takes readers on a whirlwind tour of 4.5 million years of history, broken into six chronological chapters. Each one is divided into two-page sections with DK's signature sprinkling of text and visually arresting graphics. Samples from "The Middle Part" (400-1399) include "the birth of Islam," "a frank interview with Charlemagne," and "Medieval mall." Sections are variously formatted as games, Web sites, newspapers, comics, art, maps, and pages from books. Some of the spreads are stunningly creative, presenting episodes from history in immensely appealing style. Others are so cluttered that they are difficult to read. In some cases, tiny print and dark backgrounds render the content almost indecipherable. Occasionally, the cheeky presentation is jarringly out of sync with serious subjects ("Rock out at a gory Aztec festival"). There is abundant fictionalizing of thoughts and dialogue of historical figures and personification of artifacts, e.g., two Easter Island statues discuss the 2000-mile voyage of their Polynesian builders. The lack of extensive coverage on any particular topic makes this book unsuitable for research, and its hefty size may deter browsers. An annotated table of contents and an index of the major topics make the content accessible. This title may find an audience with fans of Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley's Believe It Or Not!—Amy Pickett, Ridley High School, Folsom, PA

Gr 4–6—The history of the ninja is a source of fascination for readers, typically due to the way they have been portrayed in popular culture, but also because they have long been shrouded in mystery. Even in historical documentation, it is difficult to tell fact from fiction. Turnbull presents all of his depictions as fact, even while many of the details are vague (particularly in the case of two assassinations, which may have instead been natural deaths or suicides). Short tales of ninja daring are accompanied by attractive illustrations that do not always match the text. For example, one story describes undercover operatives who spied on an enemy camp by disguising themselves, but the picture depicts them in typical gear. Turnbull's definition of ninja is stretched in many cases, as some of his tales are about samurai who use cunning techniques or thieves who may have started some of the legends. The stories initially appear to be ordered chronologically, but this is not true throughout. Overall, this is an excellent collection of ninja tales, but less useful as a factual resource due to the lack of documentation.—Alana Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT

Gr 5–7—A season-by-season look at the ecology of an oft-overlooked habitat. Wechsler's lucid text introduces the insects, birds, reptiles, crustaceans, and other critters that claim this salty expanse as home. He explains the benefits of that smelly mud, and of the plants that take root in it and the life-forms that depend on it. He discusses the value of this seemingly inhospitable landscape as a "nursery" to a host of species, and its overall place in the natural scheme of things. Clear color photos present species mentioned in the text. Team this with Kevin Kurtz's A Day in the Salt Marsh (Sylvan Dell, 2007), which provides an hourly as opposed to a seasonal approach, or, for younger readers, Paul Fleisher's Salt Marsh (Benchmark, 1999). Salvatore Tocci's Marine Habitats (Watts, 2004) and/or Sally M. Walker's Life in an Estuary (Lerner, 2003) also contain supplemental data in specific chapters.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY