Grades 5 & Up

Gr 4–6—This novel gets off to a bumpy start and barely regains its balance as the story progresses. Orphaned in the Galveston hurricane of 1900, 12-year-old Lucas and his older brother, Gil, go from their Dutch enclave in Texas to Billings, MT, to seek work and find their cousin Henry, whom they've never met. Despite their lack of wrangling and horse-riding skills, they are hired on for a cattle drive from Montana to Canada. The book focuses on Lucas's quest to become a Pinkerton agent, the history of which is not explained until the afterword. The one-dimensional characters fall flat, Lucas as the wide-eyed boy who quickly befriends his trusty Nez Perce horse and Gil as the gruff and unemotional "true cowboy." Readers not familiar with Western jargon will find this book almost cryptic at times as characters "lope the punchers," "drive the beeves," and "trampous through the buttes." It is necessary to suspend disbelief as Lucas encounters real outlaws and Henry, while lost in the Badlands, rides bareback to safety. Overall, this is an unrealistic adventure in which the clunky dialogue and Western clichés get tired long before the journey is over.—Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 6 Up—Generations ago, sky-cities were constructed above the cloud cover and those who reside there have adapted to the point where they are born with wings. Sixteen-year-old Az Gabrielson, however, was born without them. The people of the sky-cities rely on supplies arriving in elevators from below to sustain them. Mysteriously, the elevators begin to arrive empty and the people begin to starve, so Az is sent down to figure out what is going on. His lack of wings gives him the perfect disguise. He discovers that the Earth is still populated by "Groundlings" who tithe to the elevators with the expectation that when they die, they will be reborn with wings in the sky-cities and live a better life. The conflict on the Ground is rife with parallels to current events. Amory has created a cast of characters both likable and despicable. The Groundlings come complete with their own dialect, which feels natural after a page or two. While it begins with a more traditional science-fiction feel, once Az arrives on the Ground, the story develops into a steampunk odyssey. Plenty of chases and explosions make for an action-filled read, and the brevity of the chapters makes the book approachable for reluctant readers. Give this novel to fans of Philip Reeve's "Hungry City Chronicles" and Kenneth Oppel's Airborn (2004, both HarperCollins) and its sequels. This looks to be the beginning of a series to watch.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 4–6—Sandy, 11, and Jack, 9, are growing up under rough circumstances in 1982. Their father is abusive and frequently drunk; their mother is distant and depressed. When their dad accidentally causes the death of their four-year-old brother, things get even worse. One day he picks them up from school and speeds away from their Pennsylvania home, not stopping until they reach the Florida Keys. The boys assume that he beat their mother to death. Jack, who loves TV nature programs, hates his father and wants to escape. He convinces the more practical Sandy that they should gather supplies, find a boat, and flee to Crocodile Swamp, a nature preserve, where their father will never come after them. They steal some of his money, are soon living on a crocodile-infested island, and meet an old Cuban fisherman who just might have once been a pirate. Pirates is an exciting story, with plenty of Arnosky's trademark insight into the delights and dangers of the natural (and human) world. The prose is direct and gripping, the characterization strong, and the story includes just enough of the author's illustrations to enrich the fast-moving tale.—Walter Minkel, Austin Public Library, TX

Gr 5–8—When Grdankl the Strong, president of the small, but extremely unhappy country of Krpshtskan, declares war on the United States, no one is safe. Its agents are en route to Hubble Middle School where an operative has been working for several years to create award-winning science-fair projects for underachieving children and their overinvolved parents. This is the year that the top projects will be designed to work in concert to bring down the United States in one enormous, electromagnetic pulse strike. All that is standing in the way of this diabolical plan are three students, a science store operator, a handful of bumbling FBI agents, and a giant Weinermobile. Barry and Ridley have created a wild story of danger, espionage, stinky cheese, exploding vats of Coca-Cola, and one floating frog. This nonstop, action-packed novel will appeal to every kid who has ever had to do a science-fair project.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK

Gr 4–7—Baskin writes in the voice of a high-functioning boy who identifies himself as having numerous disorders, most with labels that appear as alphabet soup. In the third grade, after yet another battery of tests, Jason receives the diagnosis of autism. Now in sixth grade, he relates how he does not fit in, even though he tries to follow the instructions of his therapists and helpers. He labels the rest of his classmates and teachers as neurotypicals, or NTs for short. While humor resonates throughout the book, the pathos of Jason's situation is never far from readers' consciousness. If only he could act on what he knows he needs to do, his life would be so much easier. Jason also shows himself to be a deep thinker and an excellent writer. Through his stories and thinly veiled fictional characters, Baskin reveals not only the obstacles that Jason faces, but also his fierce determination to be himself at all costs. Jason is a believable and empathetic character in spite of his idiosyncrasies. Baskin also does a superb job of developing his parents and younger brother as real people with real problems, bravely traversing their lives with a differently abled child without a road map, but with a great deal of love.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 5–8—Jonathan Starling, the smart and self-reliant teen first introduced in Darkside (Scholastic, 2008), must travel between London's familiar, modern Lightside and Darkside, where horse-drawn carriages travel under gas streetlamps and werewolves, vampires, and murderers all reside together under the rule of the descendant of Jack the Ripper. There he tries to solve the serial murders linked to the ensuing battle between Ripper descendants and possibly his mother's disappearance 12 years earlier. The fact that Jonathan was born of two worlds makes his travel between them less physically devastating, and aids the self-discovery aspect of the story. His mother was a reporter for a Darkside newspaper, and his father is a Lightsider who cannot risk the trauma of traveling to Darkside since he is weakened from his battle there with a vampire. The book has many fantastical characters, such as Jonathan's sidekick and protector Carnegie, a charming albeit deadly werewolf; outrageous settings like the nightclub where undead characters go to party and do battle; and plotlines that involve killers who are also painters desperate for sales. This book is totally cool, and readers who love Harry Potter, as well as fans of all things dead and undead, will flock to this fantasy/horror/thriller.—Jake Pettit, Thompson Valley High School, Loveland, CO

Gr 9 Up—This riveting account set in 1789 is narrated by 14-year-old John Jacob Turnstile, Captain Bligh's fictitious servant. Arrested as a pickpocket, he is offered a choice of jail or ship duty. As Turnstile adjusts to life aboard ship, he develops respect and admiration for his master. The later infamous William Bligh is portrayed as a shrewd navigator and devoted husband and father whose moodiness and rigid adherence to duty, loyalty, and honor often antagonize his crew. After six months on idyllic Tahiti, second-in-command Fletcher Christian leads 23 crew members in a mutiny, forcing Bligh and 18 loyal crew members into a 23-foot launch with only a compass and meager rations. Incredibly, with only one fatality, Bligh, Turnstile, and their companions row more than 3600 miles to a Portuguese settlement on Timor. Nursed back to health, the surviving crew returns to England where their story captures public attention. Imbuing the story with facts drawn from Bligh's personal documents, legal transcripts of his court martial, English naval protocol, and nautical history, Boyne has created a masterful adventure. According to Turnstile's poignant narrative, Bligh is more conflicted than cruel; Christian, the chief mutineer, is more arrogant than charismatic. Turnstile's quick wit and lively descriptions mask his insecurity and traumatic memories of sexual abuse. Like the crew, however, he eventually finds "pleasure" with a Tahitian girl. Teens will be captivated by this high-seas adventure, the abundance of bawdy banter, the drama of shipboard relationships, the desperate voyage of Bligh and his loyal companions, and one boy's coming-of-age.—Gerry Larson, Durham School of the Arts, NC

Gr 5–7—Joy Wells, 11, loves the town of Spooking. It is dark, damp, full of crumbling mansions, and has a gothic atmosphere that suits her perfectly. Joy does not love neighboring Darlington, where she and her brother go to school and are treated poorly by students and teachers alike; nobody likes "Spookies." She is convinced that her favorite horror writer, E. A. Peugeot, was inspired by Spooking and that the bog fiend from his most famous tale endures in its bog. When Joy learns that a planned tourist attraction will destroy the area, she takes action. Her opposition to the project brings her to the attention of the villainous mayoral assistant, Mr. Phipps. He is a bitter, complicated man whose motivations stem from a deep hatred of and desire to destroy his hometown. He sees his childhood self in Joy's odd ways and simultaneously wants to save and defeat her. The themes of conformity and environmentalism versus business opportunity are explored with sophistication. This novel is for fans of black humor and real horror, perfect for those looking for a more literary R.L. Stine. With the help of a fortune-telling hermit woman, Joy manages to save the bog, but further mysteries are left for future novels about Spooking.—Caroline Tesauro, Radford Public Library, VA

Gr 7 Up—DJ Lane lives with five other girls in a boardinghouse owned by her grandmother, a retired fashion model. As the novel opens, she discovers that her runaway roommate, Taylor, has returned. Taylor quickly resolves her differences with the other Carter House residents and in the process snags a coveted role in the school musical. Just as DJ thinks life in Crescent Cove might settle down, she is injured while saving a child from an oncoming car. Although she has become a local heroine, she struggles with the emotional and physical impact of the accident, feeling alone and insecure as her friends carry on with their lives at school. While DJ recuperates, Taylor and Eliza compete against each other in the homecoming queen contest, DJ's boyfriend reconnects with an old flame, and her volleyball teammates continue the season without her. Although each character represents a type, they are not one-dimensional. As the plot rambles along, jumping from one situation to the next, the author reveals different layers of her characters' personalities and, in the end, provides the satisfying twist of an unexpected result in the homecoming queen election. Reminiscent of Francine Pascal's "Sweet Valley High" books (Random), but with strong Christian overtones, this novel touches on a variety of issues, including prescription drug abuse, that will resonate with teens.—Linda L. Walkins, Mount Saint Joseph Academy, Brighton, MA

Gr 6 Up—Ryan McCray and Sarah Fincher wonder how Skeleton Creek, OR, received its name. Research takes them on a nighttime expedition to a mechanical dredge, where Ryan breaks his leg. The teens think the dredge is haunted by Joe Bush, a miner killed there. The book is interspersed with Sarah's videos, which can be accessed on the Internet. The mystery remains to be solved; sequels are guaranteed. Plot weaknesses mitigate the teen appeal of the Internet tie-in concept. The book's central flaw: it is not scary. Ryan's narration should provide creepy immediacy, but his constant insistence that he is petrified never plays out in the story. The book ramps up and peters out, without a climax or resolution of the mystery. The repetitive musings hold the pace to a slow walk, and Carman relies on contrivance to keep adults at bay. Another reason it lags is the lack of synergy between Ryan and Sarah, even though they are supposedly best friends. They communicate only via electronic means (their parents have forbidden their friendship), and their individual findings don't dovetail into one coherent story line. Even if one stops to watch Sarah's videos, there seem to be missing pieces of information that make the plot hard to follow. The actual telling is a sad departure from the intriguing premise.—Caitlin Augusta, The Darien Library, CT

Gr 8–10—Mimi is 17, overweight, and friendless. She has fantasies of meeting Céline Dion, becoming a beauty queen, and finding her sperm-donor father. During the summer between high school and university, she decides to travel from Montreal to Toronto to track him down. Her mother vehemently opposes the idea, but when she leaves to take a job out of town, Mimi takes off. When she arrives in Toronto, she begins spinning an outlandish web of lies in order to gain lodging with her mother's long-estranged sister. She quickly makes two new friends, lands a job, and experiences a series of life-changing revelations about herself. However, when Mimi's mother finds out what's she's done, the whole scheme threatens to come crashing down around her tiaraless head. While the novel has a promising premise, there are a few flaws. Contrived and unrealistic dialogue from adults and teenagers strains belief, and much of the plot hinges on events that happen out of the blue with little rationale behind them. A bright spot is Mimi's aunt, a finely drawn feminist astronomer who has worked hard for her position and suffered a terrible loss in the past. Steer readers looking for teens and weight issues toward Carolyn Mackler's The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things (Candlewick, 2003) instead.—Laura Amos, Newport News Public Library, VA

Gr 5–9—In this sensitive sports novel, a thoughtful eighth grader works through the grief she feels over her father's death. In the months following his car accident, Molly's comfortable life has been turned upside down and her mother has become a stranger. Molly and her father had always been close; as they played catch together, he passed along his love of baseball and much of his philosophy of life as well. A loyal fan of lovable losers like the Chicago Cubs, he taught Molly to throw a knuckleball, a pitch that flutters like a butterfly. He told her: "You don't aim a butterfly. You release it." Molly finds comfort in her memories and decides to try out for the boys' baseball team. She meets some resistance from her teammates, but with the help of a sympathetic coach and friends, she earns a spot on the team. In Molly, Cochrane crafts an awkward yet engaging heroine whose perceptions and interactions with family, friends, and supporting characters ring true. Crisply written sports action balances the internal drama. Suggest this well-written character study to readers who enjoyed Kristi Roberts's My Thirteenth Season (Holt, 2005) and Karen Day's No Cream Puffs (Random, 2008).—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 8 Up—This story accurately portrays life in a Shaker community and the fabric of America during the 1840s. Anna's world has been very different since her father's business was destroyed by a flood. When he leaves to build a new business in Boston, the 14-year-old is sent to live in a Shaker community. There she leads a restrictive life, with too much work and too little fun. Still, she manages to bend the rules and get into mischief, such as helping a friend elope. She also discovers that the storekeeper is stealing from the West Family Shakers. Henry David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Nathaniel Hawthorne make cameo appearances, and Anna, through her teacher, is introduced to them. When she finally leaves for Boston to live with her father and his new wife, she is overwhelmed. She attends a lecture by Thoreau and learns about the war with Mexico and American slavery. As time passes, she begins to understand the orderly conventions of the Shakers and longs to return to their rule-bound but idealistic life. The story is well written and has good character development. The overall themes of abiding friendship, growing up, and personal moral choices are strong but not didactic. An excellent ancillary choice for social-studies classes.—Sharon Morrison, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Durant, OK

Gr 3–6—Jackson approaches the end of fifth grade with mixed feelings: he's ready for middle school, but word is that eighth graders make life miserable for the incoming class. It's May, though, and now he's looking forward to baseball. The team has some great players, but is down a second baseman, and if one can't be found, the season is going to have to be forfeited. When Gig's sister shows up at practice, Gig is furious. But Sydney quickly shows her stuff, leaving Jackson in a quandary. Does he support Gig by trying to pressure her to quit the team, or does he put his feelings for the team ahead of their friendship? To further complicate matters, Jackson and his brother are shuffled back and forth between their divorced parents' households, and his mother is dating again. The adults in his life want him to challenge himself. Can't they see that his life is already full of challenges? Coy effortlessly captures the voices of boys on the verge of adolescence. Jackson and his friends are fully developed. Gig's perception of his sister as always showing him up comes through clearly, and when he tells Jackson, "Baseball was the one place I didn't have to deal with her. Now she wants to wreck that, too," students will appreciate the dilemma. Gripping play-by-play and a fast-moving plot will appeal to sports enthusiasts and reluctant readers.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 8–10—Will Carter is about to start high school and worries about finding his place and making his mark, especially when it come to girls. Carter isn't exactly smooth, he's got ADD and tends to stutter in moments of duress (expecially when fixated with boobs, tits, and belly buttons), but he has a great group of friends, dogged determination, and a wise sister who'll help him stumble through his freshman year, find his first love, face down the school bully, and learn who he really is. Crawford's debut is hysterical from start to finish. Readers will find themselves muffling uncontrollable laughter as they rush to find out what clumsy escapade Carter will plunge himself into next. Few writers have captured the real-life awkwardness of puberty with such comedic candor. Carter might finally get it (or maybe not), but it's readers who really feel lucky.—Terri Clark, Smokey Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 7–10—Serafina67 is Sarah Duffy's "new mature blog screen name." The entire novel is written as a blog, with Sarah being "totally honest," one of the goals she reveals in an early entry. Sarah must deal with her mother's misery after her divorce and her father's upcoming marriage to the "Monster." Trying to help a friend with an eating disorder via her blog backfires horribly. There is an ongoing reference to an "incident" that she is trying to get over and her main goal of reaching total happiness by its anniversary. The plotting is predicable and the incident, when it is finally revealed, is not really much of one at all. On top of the snogging and the lolling there is also a great deal of cyberspeak, so the narrative can become overwhelming. Despite the melodrama, however, Sarah is a sympathetic character and readers will relate to her. Her parents are real, caring adults and not the caricatures often found in teen novels. Day does not tie up everything but leaves readers feeling that Sarah will be okay to blog another day.—Shari Fesko, Southfield Public Library, MI

Gr 5–8—This insightful sequel to The Secret Language of Girls (S & S, 2004) stands alone, but readers will want to go back and find out more about these engaging characters. Kate and Marylin used to be best friends, but sixth grade changed things. Now, as seventh graders, they are trying to work their way back to the way things "used to be." But it's not so easy when they are so different; Kate's new passion is the guitar—and her heavy black boots—while Marylin, a cheerleader, is determined to be feminine and popular at all costs. Alternating points of view make it easy for readers to relate to both girls as they navigate friendship, romance, and family relationships. Dowell gets middle-school dynamics exactly right, and while her empathetic portraits of Kate and Marylin are genuine and heartfelt, even secondary characters are memorable. A realistic and humorous look at the trials and tribulations of growing up and growing independent.—Laurie Slagenwhite, Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MI

Gr 8–10—Teen actress Carli Gemz is a self-proclaimed dork preparing for a role in Private Nights—a TV show about scandalous boarding school teens—by posing as Sheila Smith at Winchester School of the Arts, the "dirty laundry" of boarding schools. When model senior Darcy Novak goes missing, do-gooder Carli decides to find her. The teen's disappearance is the tip of the iceberg as far as Winchester scandals go. The school is falling apart and desperately needs money, so Headmaster Stanton tolerates abuse from a wealthy donor's son while accepting a "Faustian bargain" from Fellini "Fun" Udall Newport's father (Carli's boss) to keep the boy in school. The catch is that Fun must serve as Carli's assistant. Their prime suspect is Hilton James, aka Nails, Fun's best friend and dormmate, yet the cast of misfit suspects is endless: there's Carli's roommate Miranda, relocated to Winchester for sleeping with her gym teacher; Sarah, a snarky goth DJ/journalist extraordinaire; her sidekick Mary Fishman, an aspiring author who is always with her diary and pen in hands; and Kirk Bishop, Darcy's current boyfriend. Mostly told in alternating chapters between Fun and Carli, the plot does slow in the middle, which causes readers to question its plausibility; nevertheless, this is a fun read, and the clever voices and engaging dialogue are enough to pull most readers through to the end.—Adrienne L. Strock, Maricopa County Library District, AZ

Gr 6–9—Mazzy is fine. Her severely depressed, almost catatonic mother is fine—as long as Mazzy takes care of her and keeps neighbors and family-services investigators away. Her absent ESPN-host father is fine, though he's been gone a while and Mazzy doesn't feel like returning his calls. And the summer will be fine, as long as she can keep hanging out with Colby, her neighbor, and pursue her art. In spare prose verging on free verse, Mazzy tells her story, of her daily routines without parents, of her occasional interactions with neighbors—and of the tragic accident that recently killed her young sister and led to her family's breakdown. Ellis impressively captures the voice of a sardonic, damaged, but surviving adolescent girl. Secondary characters are fleshed out well through Mazzy's pointed descriptions and snappy dialogue, and Colby shines with humor and a personality that rings true. Readers are given glimpses into the family Mazzy used to have, and the girl she once was. Although the ending seems hasty and perhaps unrealistically optimistic, Ellis has created a unique snapshot of family tragedy that's refreshingly devoid of melodrama.—Riva Pollard, Prospect Sierra Middle School, El Cerrito, CA

Gr 7 Up—Jessica Packwood is a normal teen attending Woodrow Wilson High School. Her mathematical nature has even given her a slightly geeky reputation, which is about to change with the arrival of Lucius Vladescu, who seems to be stalking her. She tells her mother about him and learns that she is really a Romanian vampire princess who has been betrothed to Lucius at birth. She knew she was adopted, but this revelation comes as a shock. It is this agreement that has kept rival vampire clans, the Dragomirs and the Vladescus, at an uneasy peace. If the marriage does not take place, war will ensue and threaten the ultimate destruction of Jessica's vampire family. To say that this is a lot for the teen to take in is an understatement. Lucius is gorgeous, old world, tender as well as arrogant, and very overprotective of her. However, she chooses to date Jake, a handsome but rather dull boy. But not all is as it seems in the vampire world, and as the story progresses, circumstances force Jessica and Lucius to take matters into their own hands; in doing so, they examine their true feelings about themselves, family, and duty. Fantaskey's fast-paced story is full of plot twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. The story is highly entertaining with plenty of action, drama, romance, as well as self-discovery.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

Gr 6–9—Cyrie Bergerac is the witty editor of the Weston High school paper. Her verbal skills propel her through her days and drive the pace of this story. As she explains from the get-go, "Everyone has something even if they won't admit it; something about their physical being that bothers them." Cyrie is obsessively bothered by her huge nose, which makes her the brunt of cruel comments from teen beauties and bullies. She bites back with brash verbal retorts and counts the days to her 18th birthday when she can get a nose job. Cyrie's secret heartthrob is Rox, but she's convinced that he can't see beyond her nose. He is enamored with Cyrie's friend Leyla, a sweet teen who has none of Cyrie's verbal acumen or tough skin. Rox and Leyla begin their courtship through a series of emails. Leyla's are increasingly creative and romantic—and composed by Cyrie. Predictably, he and Cyrie hook up. In the end "getting the guy" is a sell-out for a story that wrestles with self-esteem, body image, and intellectual strengths. What might have evolved into a meaningful teen romance misses the mark through shallow character development, predictable plot twists, and a sappy resolution. Plus, readers are sure to be left wondering if she does or doesn't get the nose job.—Alison Follos, North Country School, Lake Placid, NY

Gr 7–10—In loosely connected chapters, Gratz examines how one Brooklyn family is affected by the game of baseball. Ten-year-old German immigrant Felix Schneider arrives in America in the mid-19th century and uses his speed to good advantage both on the ball field and as a runner delivering the goods his uncle, a cloth cutter, produces. His fortunes and his family's take a turn for the worse, however, when his legs are badly injured in the great Manhattan fire of 1845 (where he encounters volunteer firefighter Alexander Cartwright, the father of modern baseball). Subsequent "innings" deal with Felix's son, Louis, who has compassion for a Confederate soldier because of their shared love of baseball; Walter Snider, a Brooklyn Superbas batboy who secures a tryout for legendary Negro Leagues star Cyclone Joe Williams and discovers the ugliness of anti-Semitism and racial prejudice; and Jimmy Flint, a 10-year-old in 1957, who worries about the class bully, Sputnik, nuclear annihilation—and the Dodgers leaving Brooklyn. Curiously, the author passes over the team's glory years from the late 1940s to the mid-'50s. For the working-class Schneider/Snider family, baseball is an important part of their history, but it does little to mitigate the gritty reality of their lives. Economic uncertainty, prejudice, and the threat of violence are ever-present concerns, and the accurate, tough-minded depiction of these issues is the novel's greatest strength.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT

Gr 5–8—This message-driven picture book for older readers is concerned with drug use and gangs. The story opens as Andy, David, and Mason are beginning their summer vacations. Andy is attracted to a gang, the Bull Dawgs, and starts selling marijuana for them. Not long after joining, he lands in a hospital with a broken leg. Mason gets high when he's supposed to be watching his sister, and she gets hit by a car as the result of his neglect. Only David stays out of trouble because he has a job and belongs to a computer club, and he feels guilty about not telling anyone earlier on about Andy. The story concludes on a promising note when he visits Andy in the hospital, and they agree that better days are ahead if they do what is right and "stay away from those who do bad things." The characters and plot are not well developed, and the illustrations are amateurish and static. The intended audience is not likely to buy into this contrived story.—Marilyn Ackerman, Brooklyn Public Library, NY

Gr 8–10—A story of first love set in late-1970s Virginia. Vincent, 15, is the only son of a Baptist preacher. He has grown up knowing all of his father's sermons, the Gospel songs, and that he is going to go to hell for being gay. But no matter how hard he prays to God to change him, he stays the same. When his family moves to a new parish, he meets Robert, and the teens strike up a friendship that turns into romance. Despite his family's views and those of his religion, Vincent comes to realize that God loves him just as he is. The teen's angst and his desire to fit in are somewhat believable. What is difficult to accept is that when his parents discover proof of his orientation, they merely pray over him. Their reaction seems too subdued compared to the hellfire-and-brimstone of his father's ministry. And, at the end of the book, Vincent resolves his feelings quite quickly, despite having been fighting them for so long. A decent effort that falls short of the mark.—Jennifer-Lynn Draper, Children's Literature Consultant, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Gr 3–6—Fifth-grader Ben Moroney has just moved from Arizona to Massachusetts. While struggling to adjust to his new home, he becomes unlikely friends with his science teacher, Mrs. Tibbets. She introduces the young nature enthusiast to the wildlife inhabiting her rural property, including the fascinating, rarely seen spadefoot toad. Despite his initial loyalty to his previous home, Ben finds himself increasingly interested in his new environment, and when he learns that the spadefoot toad's habitat will soon be sold to developers, he makes it his mission to save the threatened species he has grown to love. This title does not contain the same level of mystery, action, and suspense as Carl Hiassen's Hoot (Knopf, 2002), but the narrative does move along at a quick enough pace to keep the book interesting, and the main character is a well-developed, realistic "child hero." An additional purchase with a positive message that may appeal to readers interested in science and nature.—Melinda Piehler, Sawgrass Elementary School, Sunrise, FL

Gr 8–10—Teresa is about to enter the 10th grade and her chest isn't the only thing that needs inflating. Her self-confidence is falling a little flat, too, as she stresses about dropping down the social rankings and becoming a Sub-Normal. This is a move that screams social suicide and means that she will never attract the attention of Achingly Adorable Adam (AAA), an Above-Normal. Her confidence perks up a little, along with her breasts, thanks to an air-bra that her older sister buys for her in an atypical act of generosity. There's drama at home, too—the self-centered bridezilla sister, an ailing grandfather, and a mysterious pregnancy in the family—so it isn't long before the teen's confidence is feeling just as punctured as her popped air-bra. Haworth-Attard does an excellent job of depicting the trials and tribulations of a typical teenage girl, and readers will enjoy recognizing parts of themselves in Teresa.—Robyn Zaneski, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—Ben Byron, 15, is angry. Just two months after the death of his mother in a car accident, his dad, crushed by the loss of his wife, sells their house and small boat and uses the money to buy the Chrysalis, a 30-foot sailboat. He uproots Ben and two younger sons for a yearlong tour of the Bahamas. Life goes as smoothly as it can for a while, despite the tension, chores, and close quarters. But one morning everything changes—their father disappears. When the boat heads into a terrible storm, Ben must act. Throughout the novel, the protagonist's emotions ring true. Although the sailing details are a bit technical at times, Herlong spins an engrossing, suspenseful tale of survival.—Melyssa Malinowski, Kenwood High School, Baltimore, MD

Gr 5–8—A twist of fate is the premise behind this story of riches, street urchins, and criminals. Tad Spencer, 13, is used to getting what he wants from his indulgent yet inattentive parents. One day, he wakes up as Bob Snarby—poor, hungry, dirty, living in squalor—the son of carnival workers. The story is entertaining but the characterizations of Tad's parents are uneven and contradictory. Also, the level of violence, including mass murder, makes the book sound heavy, but it isn't. It's a fun, tongue-in-cheek read that will captivate children who like adventure and mystery. Tad struggles throughout to make sense of his new life and to return to his old one. The discoveries that he makes about himself and the people surrounding him allow him to realize that his old life perhaps is not what he thought it was, and he discovers that life is only as good as you make it.—Margaret Auguste, Franklin Middle School, Somerset, NJ

Gr 7 Up—Nina Harrison has been 15 years old since 1973. That's because she is a vampire. She and the members of the Reformed Vampire Support Group break the mold when compared to the accepted vampire lore that has been around since the time of Count Dracula. They are not beautiful, strong, powerful, rich, or in control. Instead they are sickly, struggling just to stay alive, living on the blood of the guinea pigs they keep, and making the best of their affliction. They have vowed not to drink human blood or be responsible for the creation of another vampire. Nina hates her boring, uneventful life, which changes drastically when Casimir is staked and the group, realizing that the killer knows who and where they are, all move in with Nina and her mother, a nonvampire. With only a silver bullet as a clue to track the vampire slayer, Nina, Dave, and Father Ramon, who sponsors the group, set out on a dangerous journey. Along the way they rescue a werewolf from an illegal fight ring, deal with a villainous father/son team, and discover that their immortal lives might have more to offer than they ever thought. Support Group is truly like no other vampire story. It is witty, cunning, and humorous, with numerous plot twists and turns. Jinks has conjured up an eccentric but believable cast of characters in a story full of action and adventure.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

Gr 6–9—In a spaceship abbey (a church and living quarters) flying through outer space, Bart prays to Sol, the god of the Copernican order. A 14-year-old novice monk, he is training to be the pilot of the Prominence with Gary, the only non-monk onboard. Bart foils thieves trying to steal from the abbey, flies naked through zero-g, and accidentally finds a way to save the ship when a malfunction sends it hurtling toward their "god" and total incineration. In a religious order that prays to the sun and doesn't believe in the afterlife, Bart must find his way through temptation, in the form of a female thief, to discover what he wants in life. Teens will enjoy this humorous, well-written futuristic tale with a twist.—June H. Keuhn, Corning East High School, NY

Gr 4–6—Janna, 12, desperately wants to win the lottery so she and her mother can have a decent car, she can have a wardrobe to rival schoolmate Elizabeth Newby's, and her mother wouldn't have to worry so much about money. What she gets instead, through a random act of kindness, is a bag-lady genie. Janna soon learns that wishes come with a price, and that material possessions don't lead to the happiness she expected. With her genie's "genie wattage" dangerously low, Janna has one wish left that she wants to make count, and have an effect on the world. The novel contains many amusing moments and it drives home the message that giving of oneself is the secret to happiness. The story is at times predictable and falters toward the end with a rushed, contrived conclusion. However, readers will have an enjoyable time getting to that point.—Beth Cuddy, Seward Elementary School, Auburn, NY

Gr 6–9—Determined to catch a pair of tourists in the act of illegally purchasing ancient manuscripts in Timbuktu, Ayisha and her twin brother, Ahmed, embark on a risky entrapment scheme that takes them on a harrowing trip into the Sahara desert and down the Niger River. Although he's only 12, Ahmed is already an accomplished linguist who makes needed money for his family by guiding tourists around that fabled city. As a proper Muslim girl, Ayisha would not normally meet such strangers, but she is clever and determined, finding a way to be included in one of his jobs. Ayisha is the focus of this third-person narrative, but because the author needs to introduce so much of Malian culture to her readers, the girl must notice and comment on much that she would normally take for granted. Through her eyes and Ahmed's explanations, readers learn a great deal about their world. Kessler's own travels inform the narrative, but teens will appreciate the survival adventure as much as the unique setting. A glossary of words and phrases in French, Arabic, and Tamashek is appended.—Kathleen Isaacs, Towson University, MD

Gr 5–7—Ever since she learned that she could talk to the dead in School Spirit (Little, Brown, 2008), 13-year-old Kat has been doing her best to avoid otherworldly encounters. Her friend Jac, on the other hand, is fascinated with Kat's abilities and is anxious for another chance at ghost hunting. The girls are collaborating on a school project, investigating the history of a long-abandoned house, when a photograph reveals a boy's face at the window. When Kat enters the house, she sees the child playing, but he shows no awareness of her. The message "Help Me" scratched in the dust convinces her that supernatural forces are at work. The two friends discover that the house was the site of a serious accident three years earlier. Learning that the injured victim is still in a coma, they suspect that there may be a connection to the haunting. Kat visits the hospital, and recognizes the patient as the ghost child. Can she use her psychic powers to help him reconnect his spirit to its physical shell, before they become irretrievably separated? Kat and Jac are an engaging team. Their dialogue, both spoken and emailed, generally rings true. The mildly suspenseful plot moves briskly, although the writing style occasionally strays into rather heavy New Age mysticism. A few plot threads are left to be resolved in the next volume. An acceptable choice where there is a demand for supernatural fiction.—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Gr 7 Up—One by one, the houses in Edgemont are burning down. After his own house is destroyed, Nick is determined to find out whether it's coincidence or arson. With the help of his friend Marco and Marco's brilliant (and gorgeous) cousin, Nick discovers that a shady realty company can make millions by developing the land for condos on which single-family houses owned by elderly tenants stand. After the boys challenge the owners of the company and threaten to expose their plans to the police, they put their own lives in danger. Kropp's fast-paced novel reads like an action-packed blockbuster; reluctant readers should not have any trouble visualizing this text. The plot is a bit implausible, and foreign gangsters working for a shady American boss seems a bit clichéd. Still, most hi/lo readers will plow through the inconsistencies and heavy-handedness in favor of the action. Black-and-white pencil illustrations break up the text.—H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL

Gr 7–10—It's good versus evil in the beauty pageant game, with good being represented by Presley Ashbury and evil by her archrival, wealthy Megan Leighton. After years of standing on stage near one another with fake smiles, spray-on tans, and hair extensions, Megan finally crosses the backstabbing line in her quest to be Miss Teen State. But Presley has even more at stake. As the daughter of a below-the-poverty-line single mother, she needs the scholarship money to attend college. And since academics aren't her forte, Presley must rely on her megawatt smile and dancing ability to win. This funny, behind-the-scenes novel will appeal to teens who enjoy reality shows such as Dancing With the Stars and American Idol, or Miss America pageants. Linker has a sure touch with teen dialogue and it's clear that she knows her beauty pageants. This is a quick, enjoyable read for fans of Cecily von Ziegesar's "Gossip Girl" series (Little, Brown), and it has better-developed characters.—Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

Gr 7–9—As Billy begins eighth grade, he is still grieving the recent death of his father and is emotionally vulnerable. Enter Tess, a young and beautiful teacher who claims she experienced a similar loss and who insinuates herself deeply into the teen's life. The story is told through Billy's first-person narrative, interspersed with letters he writes to his dad. The voice is occasionally stiff but it is passable; it's the plot that falls apart at the denouement, which hinges on a string of unlikely coincidences. Readers who enjoy the sensational and aren't quite ready for Dave Pelzer's A Child Called It (Health Communications, 1995) might not mind these aspects. What is uncertain is whether they will be able to swallow how clueless both Billy and his mom are as the teacher's behavior becomes increasingly outrageous. In terms of content, the "something" of the title stops short of total seduction and Logsted goes light on descriptions in the brief kissing scenes.—Faith Brautigam, Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin, IL

Gr 10 Up—Sol Wheat lives in an apocalyptic future in which global warming has brought on an ice age that few people survived. His domed city of Ash Harbor is powered by "The Machine" and each citizen's life is arranged to keep it functioning. When Sol's father—who works outside to clear the dome of snow and ice—disappears after being accused of murdering a fellow "daylighter," the 16-year-old asks too many questions and finds himself on the run, wanted both by the police and the crime lord to whom his father is in debt. McGann has written a compelling tale reminiscent of Lois Lowry's The Giver (Houghton, 1993). Sol, like Jonas, strives to make his fellow citizens aware of the corruption and hypocrisy in their society and to challenge them to change for the better. Daylight Runner will appeal to science-fiction fans, although the length may deter reluctant readers or those looking for a fast-paced story. The author provides glimpses into Sol's past, and his character, though well developed and fully three-dimensional, is simply not likable enough to resonate with readers. When the plot drags in the middle third of the book, Sol's plight may not be compelling enough to ensure that most readers will continue to the end.—Leah J. Sparks, formerly at Bowie Public Library, MD

Gr 7–9—Fiona O'Doherty, 14, describes her complicated, sometimes painful life in the Bronx in 1963. Her alcoholic, abusive father has caused her mom to move the family into a small, crowded apartment with relatives and then, when things don't work out, back with him and more abuse. Fiona's mother does not approve of her friendship with Yolanda, an African-American girl. Each teen feels like an outsider except when they are together. One is plagued by racism and the other, by the instability of her dysfunctional family. Ultimately, Yolanda, a take-action person, convinces Fiona to stop going along with things and find a way to stand up to her father. Maintaining their friendship is sometimes difficult, especially for Fiona, who is enticed by the popular white girls in school when they start to pay attention to her because of her friendship with David Silverman. Unfortunately, she joins her new friends in excluding Yolanda, rationalizing her feelings of guilt. McGuigan has created rich characters and tackles several uncomfortable social issues. At times the integration of these issues is a bit heavy-handed. Fiona's voice reverberates through a range of emotional highs and lows in this story of friendship, loyalty, trust, racism, and coping that culminates with the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Like Shana Burg's A Thousand Never Evers (Delacorte, 2008), the novel offers insight into a turbulent era.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 4–7—Travis Keating and his widowed father have moved to Fiddler's Cove, a tiny coastal community in Newfoundland, where Mr. Keating is planning to serve for a year as the area physician. Travis is unhappy about it, and the almost instant attention of the school bully makes matters even worse. Ostracized by the kids at school and feeling distant from his father because of his reluctance to discus his wife's death, Travis discovers a colony of feral cats living in a dilapidated cove. His decision to care for them eventually has long-ranging repercussions as he, in need of a support system, reaches out to some of his classmates. Travis is likable and sympathetic, an ordinary middle-school boy who has weathered a difficult life experience. His relationships with the supporting characters—his father, the school bully, classmates Prinny and Hector, and the crotchety neighbor who befriends him—show Travis to be a boy of imagination, courage, and empathy. This is a solid piece of contemporary fiction with an interesting story. It should have broad appeal.—Kara Schaff Dean, Walpole Public Library, MA

Gr 4–8—Lexi, 12, wakes up in the forest with no knowledge of who she is, where she lives, or what happened to her. She makes her way toward the lights of a city where she is hit by a car as she wanders through the streets. A kindly ex-boxer takes her to the Shelter, where someone seems to recognize her, and where she is safe from street criminals and other horrors. Gradually Lexi remembers bits and pieces of her old life, but she is surprised when she finds out that she has a grandmother and an identical twin, and then learns that she is the daughter of a pop-music star recently killed in an automobile accident. As she adjusts to her newfound identity, Lexi faces some important decisions about what to do with her wealth and how she wishes to live life with her new family. Like Matthews's Fish (2004) and A Dog for Life (2006, both Delacorte), this is a story of improbable, sometimes frightening events told by a child narrator, in which extraordinary things seem perfectly plausible. Most likely, this book will not have broad appeal, but fans of Matthews's previous work will appreciate its sense of childlike wonder and fantasy.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 5–8—When Hannah's writer mother travels from Australia to Japan to do research for a new book, she takes her reluctant daughter with her. While Liana travels throughout the country, the 12-year-old stays with her mother's friends, the Maekawas. She is able to converse with the family as she spent time in Japan when she was younger and has been studying Japanese at school. Hannah is soon swept up in a mystery with her new friend, Miki Maekawa. Opening an old toy box, the family finds a riddle that appears to be an appeal for help from "the ocean boy," a lost soul seeking peace. The girls and their friend Hiro set out to solve the riddle, traveling to markets, temples, shrines, and an ancient castle and meeting people from the past who aid or hinder their quest. Following the realistic and likable characters on their journey gives insight into the beauty of Japanese culture and tradition, and the fast-paced action as the children figure out the clues will appeal to many readers.—Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD

Gr 9 Up—Hunter Brown and his two friends are running from bullies on the last day of high school and get locked in the Dumpster in which they have taken refuge. Their rescuer, a supposed janitor, sends the boys on an errand to a bookstore where they pick up a magic book. Thus starts the adventure where they tumble through a grave into a netherworld, float in a dark lake surrounded by dead bodies, and ultimately must fight for "The Author" of the book against the forces of evil. Aviad, whom some say is just a prophet and others say is the son of The Author, figures prominently. Characters named Faith and Hope are major players as well. The Christian and biblical parallels are obvious throughout, and there is one scene in which public schools are criticized for teaching science. However, the boys do use some of their math abilities to retrieve the key to their salvation, and the action and swordplay are a constant. There is a companion online video game, and this book reads very much like a script for one. The boys are in high school, but they behave like much younger children in many respects, and the illustrations mirror that young image.—Jake Pettit, Thompson Valley High School, Loveland, CO

Gr 4–6—Twelve-year-old Emiline Orelia works for Isiah Lovelock, one of the richest and most powerful mouse collectors in the world. While she tends to his extensive menagerie, she dreams of becoming a mousehunter, traveling the world in search of rare and exotic species. When Lovelock hires Captain Devlin Drewshank to capture the pirate Mousebeard, who sank his merchant ship, Emiline runs away and joins his crew. She and her new friend, Scratcher, find themselves in the midst of Lovelock's plot against Mousebeard. Emiline grows throughout the story in her awareness of the other characters and their motivations, and in her perceptions of the shades of gray between good and evil, as she sees Lovelock as a scheming traitor and finds redeeming qualities in the notorious Mousebeard. Milway has created an atmospheric and engaging world filled with hundreds of varieties of mice with different coloring, temperaments, and abilities. New creatures are introduced both within the text and in pages with information and illustrations from The Mousehunter's Almanac interspersed between chapters. Readers will enjoy the action, chases, and plot twists, and will look forward to the sequel that's sure to follow.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

Gr 7 Up—Chris Smithers, 16, finds trouble the way the rest of her classmates find stray pencils: she goes looking for it. After her dad is jailed on a drug conviction, and her abusive mother forbids contact with him, she embraces life on the dark side. Whether getting into fights or mouthing off to the principal, Chris can't bring herself to act like the "good kid" she once was. Then her guidance counselor offers her a spot in a program designed to help problem kids get back on track. If Chris turns herself around, she can stay in school. If she doesn't, she will be expelled, an option that even Chris realizes leads to a more permanent dead end. With Ms. Cooper's help, she begins fitting back into the routine of school and staying out of trouble. Then her best friend is badly beaten, and Chris sacrifices her chance at a trouble-free life to save him and unknowingly puts herself in grave danger. Mulrine's first novel has all the elements of a gritty, fast-paced teen movie. Unfortunately, it also has all of the clichés. The adult characters are one-dimensional, the dialogue is artificial, and some plot details don't ring true. Still, teen hi/lo readers may be able to overlook the flaws and identify with Chris's dilemma: How do I change how others perceive me?—H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL

Gr 4–8—In this coming-of-age story, Ignatius, the youngest of five brothers in a military family grounded in the Christian faith, promises to take care of the ranch while his father is deployed in Iraq. Since his mother left years earlier to pursue life as an artist, and his older brothers are off to school or military training camps, the 11-year-old looks to his grandparents for guidance, but often feels angry and alone trying to keep his heroic promise. Although some of the realities of the Iraq war are threaded in, the author primarily focuses on the details of contemporary Oregonian ranch life. Ignatius's series of firsts that move him beyond his absolute, always-saying-never ways are the novel's most suspenseful scenes: he stitches up his brother's head, births a calf, and survives a wildfire. In the end, his relationships with his Quaker grandfather, an Ecuadoran shepherd who works on the ranch, and a new Catholic circuit priest help him to discover his true calling, to become a military chaplain. Despite a heavy-handed message and an unevenness in tone—the present-tense first-person narrative changes awkwardly between a reflective and an imaginary play voice—it remains a good purchase for readers who are looking for realistic fiction written from the point of view of a soldier's child, along with Maria Testa's Almost Forever (Candlewick, 2003) and Gary Paulsen's The Quilt (Random, 2004).—Sara Paulson, American Sign Language and English Lower School PS 347, New York City

Gr 4–6—Lucky is back. In this sequel to The Higher Power of Lucky (S & S, 2006), Milo, Lincoln, Brigitte, Short Sammy, and HMS Beagle are all present and accounted for, hewing to their idiosyncratic ways and weaving in the psychological safety that makes Lucky's world a charmer of a place. The girl settles in with Brigitte, her foster mother, and enjoys her home and friends. She discovers the fun of a best friend who shares her gender as she instantly bonds with a girl accompanying the "ologists" who've come to Brigitte's Hard Pan Café. However, Lucky is not a child who is ever going to proceed calmly and sedately through life. From the minute she meets Paloma, whose parents are overly concerned for her safety in the desert, it is almost inevitable that Lucky will think up an escapade that will bring them into real danger. Unusual metaphors, vivid language, felicitous writing, and the sense of hearing from a realistic, albeit unique child are the strengths that continue in this sequel that is as tightly plotted as the first book.—Carol A. Edwards, Denver Public Library

Gr 4–6—Ten-year-old Jamie Jo Morgan is deathly afraid of bees since she watched a movie in which the young main character dies of a bee sting. She spends most of summer vacation inside unless her mother is with her carrying a flyswatter. She longs for a friend, a wish that comes true when a girl her age moves into her neighborhood. A series of events, beginning with her mother's exclusion from the church choir because she can't sing, cause Jamie Jo to question her faith in God and face her fears. Jamie's struggles and questions are met with wisdom, humor, and a positive attitude especially through the character of Mrs. Morgan. Payne gives the story enough realistic family and friend imperfections to keep readers interested and the plot from taking on a syrupy-sweet edge. Christian ideals are shown in behaviors rather than preached. This uplifting story contains much to appeal to a broad audience.—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 7–10—In the mid-1970s, when her engineer father loses his job and leaves India to look for employment in America, 16-year old Asha; her 17-year old sister, Reet; and their mother move in with their uncle's family in Calcutta. Beautiful Reet attracts many suitors, and her uncle soon begins to look for a suitable marriage proposal. But impulsive Asha, who promised her father that she would take good care of her sister, manages to publicly humiliate the first serious candidate. Asha hopes to become a psychologist, but her aspirations are curtailed by her lack of finances and concern about the family's reputation. She finds solace writing in her diary, the "secret keeper," on the roof of the house. Here she befriends Jay, who watches her from a window in the house next door. He wants to become a painter and, to Asha's surprise, he takes a liking to her. Since conventions would not allow them to meet in public, he draws her portrait from a distance. Well-developed characters, funny dialogue, and the authentic depiction of spunky Asha's longing for romance and female self-determination, set in a culture that restrains women's choices, make this book an attractive pick for teenage girls. In the end, a surprising sacrifice by Asha demonstrates her emotional maturity and her love for her sister. An author's note explains the turbulent times during Indira Gandhi's regime that influence the narrative. Pair this appealing novel with Padma Venkatraman's Climbing the Stairs (Putnam, 2008), a similar story set in India during World War II.—Monika Schroeder, American Embassy School, New Delhi, India

Gr 6–9—It is 1781 and James Todd, a 16-year-old Quaker, and his family have remained removed from their political surroundings in Guilford, NC. Secretly, James doubts his religious teaching as he learns of the havoc the British have caused in other states. All of this changes, however, when his father is killed by the British. Glenn Dowdy, a freed slave, befriends James and convinces him to work for the Patriots as a wagon driver. James joins the army even though he faces being shunned by his community. When he returns home, he finds the Quakers administering to the injured and burying the dead on both sides when the British and the American Armies confront each other at the Guilford Court House. James has to decide whether to stay and fight or remain true to his religious beliefs. Guns has the potential of being an interesting story, but the characters lack depth and the book drags on. Also, the Quaker speech is difficult to decipher and inconsistent throughout the book.—Shannon Seglin, Patrick Henry Library, Vienna, VA

Gr 4–8—These sport-themed novels provide a lot of bang for your buck and are perfect for reluctant readers. In Rivals, Amy suffers an injury that prevents her from competing on her school track team for two months of the season, and she worries that she won't be prepared for a big meet. Priebe successfully conveys the African-American child's love for running, and the dialogue is easygoing and realistic. The fast-paced story has enough suspense to keep readers' interest. The only minus may be the illustrations, which appear rather one-dimensional and amateurish. In Climb, 14-year-old Amir is befriended by a police officer who helps the boy channel his dangerous attempts at scaling buildings into the safe, fun hobby of climbing in a gym. The book skillfully combines an action-based plot with facts about the sport. The story is well executed (if a little predictable), but it is not enhanced by the illustrations. Back matter in both books is excellent—a brief biography of Babe Didrikson Zaharias in Rivals and facts about climbing in the other book; questions to prompt discussion and writing; and directions for using the publisher's FactHound Web site to further explore these activities.—Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI

Gr 6–9—Twelve-year-old Tor has recently moved from southern California to a small ski resort in Colorado where his mother is starting her first job after finishing her medical training. When Dr. Sinclair's first patient, a high school student named Brian, unexpectedly dies, mother and son become aware of a curse that has been beleaguering the town's doctors since the 1950s. Pressured by a local doctor who wanted to buy her family's mountain for ski development, a Ute woman (who also happens to be the ancestor of Tor's first friend in town) cursed the doctor and all of Snow Park's future healers. Through some extraordinary coincidences, Tor is able to both solve the mystery surrounding Brian's death and uncover the lost mining deed, which will ensure that the mountain will not be developed (and thus remove the curse). As the plot creaks laboriously along, with improbability piling upon improbability, the whole thing becomes increasingly difficult to follow and even more difficult to care about. Snowboarding information and Native American lore are nicely integrated into the events of the novel, but few readers will stick around long enough to notice.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT

Gr 10 Up—A zombie story with a mythological twist, Shimmer is a quick and compelling read. As far as the residents of Winter, CO, know, all they have to worry about is weathering the major blizzard that is on its way. What they don't realize is that an ancient evil is about to be unleashed on their town. Justin, a spoiled rich kid, throws a big party while his parents are out of town, and the school's queen bee, Tess, stumbles upon a strange box. Despite Justin's demand that she leave it alone, she opens it. A strange silver cloud emerges, and the townspeople begin to go mad with lust, hatred, greed, gluttony, and sloth. Five students are unaffected by the insanity, and they resolve to protect the box that Tess (who is now frighteningly altered) seems determined to possess. But where can they hide in a town that seems destined to self-destruct? And how can they contain the evil that has been released into the world? Initially, some of the teen dialogue seems forced, but it smoothes out as the novel progresses. Also, one of the characters makes a choice that doesn't fit with the way the author has constructed him, but otherwise the characters are well-drawn and believable, specifically Emma, the heroine. Violence, crude language, and references to drug use require that this book be given to an older age group; however, the writing is at a lower level, making this an ideal choice for reluctant or struggling readers.—Heather M. Campbell, formerly at Philip S. Miller Library, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 4–7—Jule's parents have been missing for 10 years and, most recently, the girl's aunt has disappeared. Then Jule finds herself left behind after the MegaMall closes for the day. She is absorbed into one of the competing tribes of children who live there, scavenging for their subsistence needs. Jule soon learns that virtually all of their parents have disappeared. As the plot unfolds, readers are introduced to the mastermind of the mall. A man whose face was so disfigured by his peers as a child that he keeps it hidden, he has pledged revenge on all children. This futuristic book has a great premise, but fails in its execution. The characters are two-dimensional, with the villain drawn as almost a cartoon caricature. The repetition of "Ohhh, nooooooo," although intended to reveal the shallow, controlled thoughts of adults in custody, instead comes off as tedious and uninspired. The rotation of character perspectives through the different chapters is difficult to follow. This book cannot hold a candle to Jeanne DuPrau's "Books of Ember" (Random) or Anthony Horowitz's "The Gatekeepers" series (Scholastic).—Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

Gr 7–10—Alis, 15, is betrothed against her wishes to Galen, the 40-something minister of Freeborne, a "Community of The Book" in an imagined, horse-drawn past. Outraged, she escapes to Two Rivers, another Bookish Community, where she earns the enmity of Thomas, a conservative religious reformer. She meets and falls in love with Luke, who is forced to flee with his grandparents because of their philosophical disagreements with Thomas. She goes to the big bad City, where she finds her runaway brother leading a Dickensian gang of young cutthroats and part-time prostitutes. She gains an ally in Edge, a girl who defends herself with a knife, but seeing that life there is a dead end, Alis eventually returns home and meekly submits to marriage to Galen. She is relieved that he does not force her to sleep with him, and life continues apace until Edge shows up, is startled by Galen's sudden appearance, and fatally wounds him. Thomas soon accumulates enough circumstantial evidence to charge Alis with murder, setting up the climactic trial. The story may be compelling to the intended audience, but the plot winds back on itself overmuch, with many characters, some of whom are stereotyped as "good" or "bad" as much by their physical description as by their actions, dropped by the wayside. While sexual undercurrents, hypocrisy, and religious repression dominate the tale, in the end Alis and Luke ride off into exile a bit older and perhaps more worldly-wise, but little different, really, than if they'd done so 100 pages earlier.—Joel Shoemaker, Southeast Junior High School, Iowa City, IA

Gr 4 Up—Muggles grow up with Grimm's fairy tales; wizarding children grow up with Tales of Beedle the Bard. The Bard's book is a collection of five tales, bequeathed to Hermione Granger by Professor Dumbledore. The passing of the book into her hands was intended to be both "entertaining and instructive." As in all good mysteries, information contained within its pages provided Hermione with clues essential to helping Harry in the series' last installment. In particular, "The Tale of Three Brothers" describes how three magical items appeared after siblings cleverly cheat death. It is these items that play a pivotal role in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Scholastic, 2007). Those hoping to re-create the hours of pleasure spent curled up with a J.K. Rowling book may be disappointed at the brevity of this title, but they will undoubtedly enjoy the tales and Dumbledore's often lengthy, cynical-but-wise commentary on each one.—Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

Gr 9 Up—Fifteen-year-old Garth Rudd, more comfortable with his homosexuality than his 5' 2" stature, is grieving his father's recent death. Forced to get a job, his understandably overprotective mother has asked him to temporarily keep his sexual orientation secret. When his father's estranged twin appears for a summer visit, Garth's trust is easily gained. Secretly Mike helps him navigate the unfamiliar waters of gay relationships by taking him to bookstores and facilitating dates with Adam, a school friend. Before long, Mike exploits Garth's trust and encourages him to quit his job, lie to his mother, and secretly help him collect money for "charities" instead. Soon the scams become apparent and the teen realizes the truth about his uncle. Now the teen must face his friends and his mother. The author has created a story with a pace that does not falter and a resolution that is realistically achieved. Garth is an appealing character, filled with contradictions, vulnerable while seeking strength, honest with himself but surprised at how easily he is able to lie to others. The author's use of language, at times brilliantly translucent, provides insightful dialogue. This contemporary coming-of-age story set in Richmond, VA, subtly and clearly provides a fresh perspective on teenage sexual identity by imbedding it into the context of the bigger issue of truth.—Sue Lloyd, Franklin High School, Livonia, MI

Gr 6–8—Vandals have crossed off the "o" and the "n" from the welcome sign outside the town of Moundville, and appropriately so, as it's been raining there continually for 22 years. Shortly after 12-year-old Roy discovers that he'll be sharing his bedroom with Sturgis, a scarred foster child about his age, the rain stops. What better opportunity to organize some baseball? In short order Roy finds himself captaining a ragtag team with himself as catcher, Sturgis—who has a wicked fastball—on the mound, and position players of both sexes with wildly varying levels of skill. Scaletta takes nearly 80 pages to trot out his varied, well-drawn supporting cast and to fill in the town's history (a necessity: that rain interrupted an important baseball game that some adults, at least, still regard as unfinished business), but he balances perceptive explorations of personal and domestic issues perfectly with fine baseball talk and (eventually) absorbing play-by-play. Readers will cheer Roy on as he struggles to get his team in shape, clicks with a girl who is new to the game but turns out to have an unhittable natural screwball, and weathers some rough waters with moody Sturgis on the way to a rousing climax and a fitting resolution.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 4–6—Ten-year-old Isabelle, who was found on a doorstep when she was a baby and adopted by an elderly woman, lives in a dreadful boardinghouse in a town in which it never stops raining. She works long hours at Mr. Supreme's Umbrella Factory labeling boxes to support herself and her ailing grandmother. One day she is told that Grandma has passed away, and she decides to escape from Runny Cove. Upon running away, she meets Sage, a 12-year-old boy who tells her that she is not an orphan, but rather a tender, a member of the family who lives in hiding in the last place on Earth where magic grows. Sage takes her on a journey across the ocean to Fortune's Farm. Isabelle finds her new home to be a sunny place filled with fruit trees and magical seeds that immediately change her pale, prunelike appearance into a healthy body. Isabelle is faced with some tough obstacles and challenges to her loyalty but ultimately she wins her grandfather's approval and is able to bring about change in Runny Cove. The story gets off to a slow start, but upon arrival at Fortune's Farm, the descriptions of this magical land make it worthwhile. Readers will cheer for Isabelle throughout the story and despise Mr. Supreme and Mama Lu, the despicable owner of the boardinghouse.—Sarah Polace, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Parma, OH

Gr 10 Up—When four American teens become exchange students in Paris, they go wild, partying, drinking, and smoking. The host families have no qualms about any of the goings-on as their behavior is, in some cases, more erratic and disturbing than the students they are hosting. There's not a lot of focus on traditional character development in the book, which is the first in a planned trilogy, but things do wrap up for Olivia, the ballet dancer: she is determined to stay, even though her parents want her help at home. Her change isn't entirely believable, and her parents' blithe acceptance of her decision, after being so opposed to it, is even less so. The stories of Alex, the snarky seductress, and Zach, the handsome gay boy, will be resolved in the sequels, it is assumed, and that troubled PJ, who has run away, will be found. A shining example of tawdry melodrama, the story sometimes borders on farce. Readers looking for glamour, histrionics, and mad, groping sex—need look no further.—Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 5–8—Newton Starker, 14, has a curse: all but one of his ancestors have been killed by a lightning strike. The teen spends most of his time in a protective dome and constantly checks and rechecks the weather. His life is limited; he finds it hard to make friends. When his mother dies of a lightning strike, Newton tries to avoid the same fate by enrolling in the eccentric Jerry Potts Academy of Higher Learning and Survival in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Its motto is "Survival Through Fierce Intelligence." In one class, for example, the students learn smoke signals and Morse code. Newton, a food connoisseur and budding chef, places a phone order of truffles for his quiche recipe, but, because of his imprecise French, he gets a highly intelligent, truffle-seeking pig. Then, in his first Culinary Arts and Survival class, he is confronted with ground squirrel. When he is hit by lightning but survives, he learns not to let himself be ruled by fear, but rather to acknowledge it and act in spite of it—to let it pass through him. The emails, recipes, and rules interspersed throughout sometimes give the narrative a disjointed feeling, but short chapters make this an appropriate choice for reluctant readers. The book has tongue-in-cheek humor, a budding romance, some gross recipes, and even a fantastic porker. Its message of taking control of one's fate will appeal to every kid.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 5–7—In the form of a diary addressed to her recently deceased cat, Mud, and any future biographers wishing to write about her, Lorelei Lee Connelly, 11, chronicles her life as a sixth grader at a private school in Washington, DC, and as the middle child and only girl in a family in crisis. Trying out for the part of Wendy in the school's production of Peter Pan; navigating relationships with schoolmates, including moody best friend Jennifer, bully Matt, dreamboat Bo, and outcast Saylor; and grappling with the confusion and fear surrounding her parents' disintegrating marriage, Lorelei gives spirited accounts of her days. Thanks to the insight of Mr. Blair, a teacher who recognizes her comic talent, she lands the part of Tiger Lily (to the disappointment of her self-absorbed mother, who played Wendy at Princeton) and throws herself into preparation for the play. Lorelei's dramatic and social success can't alleviate the feeling of rejection when her mother barely notices her achievements, and of disillusionment with her father when he decides to move to Massachusetts with his girlfriend, but the wisdom of Mr. Blair, her love for her brothers, and her indomitable spirit carry her through. The complexity of human behavior, nuanced character development (even in minor characters), and, above all, Lorelei's authentic and endearing voice provide a richly layered reading experience. This funny, poignant story of self-centered parents and appealing, resilient children is a winner.—Marie Orlando, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY

Gr 8–10—In an attempt to bring them all closer together, Rachel's parents uproot her and her younger brother to sail the family boat down the East Coast and through the Caribbean. Rachel, 16, is totally against the idea; she doesn't want to leave her older sister, who suffers from a brain injury and lives in a group home. They will be gone for an entire year, which chaps Rachel's hide big time, and then she discovers along the way that her mother is having an affair with a smarmy, married yachtsman. Taking comfort in her friendship with older, freer Becca, Rachel begins to strike out on her own, sneaking out at night to have a few drinks; hear music; and spend time with a smooth, 25-year-old drifter. From struggling with her desire to lose (or hold onto) her virginity to feeling anger toward her mother and pity for her clueless father, Rachel comes across as a real teen with whom readers will identify. Using the small boat as a setting highlights the cramped, suffocating feeling many young people have when spending a lot of time with parents and siblings. The book has no easy answers, and the family's problems are not anywhere near solved in the end, giving the novel a refreshing realism.—Nora G. Murphy, Los Angeles Academy Middle School

Gr 5–8—The intertwined layers of this story are peeled off as the author traces the odyssey of Mee, the son of deaf mute parents. Relying on sign language as a child, he soon discovers his own musical powers to ease the pain of others, and he becomes a renowned singer of sorrows. He is filled with sadness because he could not make his mother happy after his father's death and then feels empty when she dies as well. Mee travels from funeral to funeral, from sickbed to sickbed, giving voice to people's suffering, helping them to mourn and feel contentment again. He is called upon to help a princess, perhaps too conveniently named Esperanza, who mysteriously spends her time looking in a mirror. En route to his mission, he learns about a host of unusual people, each of whom is dealing with a void in his or her life. In addition, there is Mitou, a cheerful young woman who is a singer of joy. She was born of a loveless marriage at the same time as Mee. They are destined to unite in order to help people rid themselves of sorrow and fill their lives with joy. Each of the chapters offers a well-constructed backstory for the people whom Mee hears of on his journey and could be read on their own. This Dutch import owes much to its translator, who fills the pages with vivid prose that gives the stories a cinematic quality and a lilting tone. A unique selection by a master storyteller.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 8 Up—Like Christopher Boone, the protagonist in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (Doubleday, 2003), Marcelo Sandoval is a high-functioning, extremely self-aware teenager with Asperger's syndrome. He has an empathetic mother and a father, Arturo, who appears to be less empathetic as he pushes Marcelo to live in the "real world." The form the real world takes is a summer job in the mailroom at Arturo's law office. The teen is forced to think on his feet, multitask, and deal with duplicitous people who try to take advantage of him. Over the course of a summer, Marcelo learns that he can function in society; he is especially surprised to find that he can learn to read people's expressions, even to the point of knowing whom he can and cannot trust. Writing in a first-person narrative, Stork does an amazing job of entering Marcelo's consciousness and presenting him as a dynamic, sympathetic, and wholly believable character. At a little over 300 pages, the story drags at some points, bogging down in the middle. However, the dilemmas that Marcelo faces are told in a compelling fashion, which helps to keep readers engaged.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 4 Up—For those who loved Tan's surreal and evocative The Arrival (Scholastic, 2007), the Australian author follows up with a brilliant collection of illustrated vignettes. Fifteen short texts, each accompanied by Tan's signature black-and-white and full-color artwork, take the mundane world and transform it into a place of magical wonders. In the opening tale, a water buffalo sits in an abandoned suburban lot, offering silent but wise direction to those youngsters who are patient enough to follow his guidance. In "Eric," the title character (a tiny, leaflike creature) visits a family as a foreign exchange student and fascinates them with his sense of wonder. His parting gift to the family is sure to warm even the coldest heart. Other stories describe the fate of unread poetry, the presence of silent stick figures who roam the suburbs, or an expedition to the edge of a map. In spirit, these stories are something akin to the wit and wisdom of Shel Silverstein. The surrealist art of Rene Magritte also comes to mind, but perhaps Chris Van Allsburg's beloved The Mysteries of Harris Burdick (Houghton, 1984) comes closest as a comparable work. While somewhat hard to place due to the unusual nature of the piece, this book is a small treasure, or, rather, a collection of treasures.—Douglas P. Davey, Halton Hills Public Library, Ontario, Canada

Gr 8 Up—More than 200 years in the future, Comet Bhaktul hurtles past Earth, leaving a deadly contagion in its wake. Bhaktul's disease threatens to annihilate the human race within a decade, but the mysterious illness only affects adults. Scientists worldwide scramble to find a cure, while one scientist proposes a controversial project to preserve humanity, should other efforts fail. Under Project Galahad, 251 teens are sent on a mission to reach a habitable planet free of Bhaktul's contamination. As Galahad enters space, the young people must deal with the intense pressure of saving humankind and the sadness of leaving their families behind. Sixteen-year-old Triana, the ship's commander, must manage daily operations while also dealing with her father's recent death. Matters escalate when, less than a week out, one of the teens spots an adult onboard, a potential Bhaktul carrier. With the help of the Council and the ship's computer brain, Triana does her best to solve the mystery of the uninvited passenger and save their mission. Part space opera, part mystery, the story draws readers in from the beginning with well-placed hooks, plenty of suspense, and a strong premise. The viewpoint alternates between the Galahad crew members and the scientists back at the space station. Solid characterizations keep readers from getting bogged down by the constant shifts in viewpoint, setting, and time. A promising start to a six-part series.—Kim Ventrella, Ralph Ellison Library, Oklahoma City, OK

Gr 8 Up—All Haley would like to do is enjoy her junior year of high school with her friend Lynn, who has just bought her first car. However, Lynn's new boyfriend, Chad, ends up taking Haley's place in Lynn's life and passenger seat. With Haley trapped at home, she finds it difficult to avoid her mom's lecherous boyfriend, Larry. One evening, he attacks Haley, and she barely escapes being raped. Her solution is to lock her doors, prompting her mom to think that she is smoking marijuana. To add to Haley's confusion, Lynn is planning to have sex for the first time and needs Haley's help to buy condoms. With her life turned upside down, the teen finds an unexpected ally in Chad's friend Mike. When Haley's mom confronts her about buying condoms, Haley also tells her about Larry's attack. Realistic dialogue and situations characterize this novel. Struggling readers will appreciate the quick pacing and the low reading/high interest level. However, multiple plotlines and an abrupt, unresolved ending are confusing and unsatisfying.—H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL

Gr 3–6—Samantha Hansen loves studying rocks, so when her mother announces that she is taking Sam and her 15-year-old sister on a vacation to the Grand Canyon, the fourth grader is in heaven. First, though, Sam has to learn to control her temper—not an easy task when her big sister seems to delight in provoking her, and when a classmate taunts her at recess and causes her to end up in the principal's office. Sam's mother comes close to canceling, and it is only Sam's redoubled efforts to count to 10 when she knows that she is about to lose control that enable the plans to go forward. During the trip, Sam discovers more about the death of her father when she was younger, and she and her sister learn to appreciate one another a little more in spite of the ongoing sibling squabbling. Overall, Sam is an engaging and realistically drawn protagonist, although some of her mannerisms are a little too reminiscent of Junie B. Jones and what works for a first grader isn't as appealing in a fourth grader. Nonetheless, Sam's love of science is refreshing, and Viau does a nice job of incorporating information about the Grand Canyon and the study of geology into the story line. Readers will easily relate to Sam as she tries to make sense of the world around her.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 6–10—Seventeen-year-old Noah and his two buddies go to an Italian-American neighborhood, intent on stealing a car to sell for parts. Instead, some thugs target the African-American teens and beat Noah's head in with a baseball bat. The unrepentant bat wielder, Charlie Scaturro, and his cohorts are charged with a hate crime. His cousin Spenelli confesses and the third boy, the son of a police officer, testifies to avoid prosecution. At Noah's mostly black school, white kids wear "Free Spenelli" T-shirts and the gym teacher is a vicious, obvious bigot. All of the basher's Italian-American friends and family are unabashedly racist. Volponi presents Noah's life as a student, son, and teen father simply though not simplistically. The dialogue between the protagonist and his buddies and family is occasionally precious, but mostly natural. Volponi interjects film-script dialogue of events in prison, and in Charlie's head. Though these episodes highlight Charlie's narcissism, they detract from the (mildly) suspenseful mood and slow the pace of the narrative. The racism in this town is so vicious and public, so over-the-top that it's hard to see the white, mostly Italian Americans as anything but caricatures. Though it's certainly easy to believe the events of this story, Volponi's portrayal is never wholly convincing.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Ian and Oswald like to orchestrate flash mobs—impromptu gatherings of strangers arranged on Facebook or by text messages. Whether organizing public pillow fights or staging standing ovations on street corners, the friends live for the five minutes of managing crafted chaos. Friend and student-body president Julia, however, finds their hobby a waste of time. When a new, militant principal assumes control of their school, the boys view his stringent discipline as helping to clean up a poorly run institution, whereas Julia, who dislikes the man because he lacks respect for the student council, feels his rules are domineering. After Principal Roberts cancels a dance, Julia coordinates a boycott of school for a day. Fearing suspension or losing Julia's friendship, Ian capitalizes on his own flash-mob tactics and mobilizes the pupils in the ultimate peaceful protest. Snappy, realistic dialogue; multidimensional characters; and an unpredictable plot (not to mention a hip, contemporary phenomenon) will have both reluctant and struggling readers madly flipping the pages. This fast-paced read is a good companion to Avi's Nothing but the Truth (Scholastic, 1991) as an example of an alternative type of student demonstration.—H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL

Gr 8 Up—Teenage stock-car racer Trace Bonham is chosen to receive a corporate sponsorship, with a lucrative contract, a custom-built Super Stock vehicle, and his own racing team. He has suspicions about his Team Blu sponsor almost from the beginning, especially since their representatives seem more interested in his looks than in his driving ability. He overcomes his reservations and signs on, only to be accused of having an illegal vehicle in his first race at his home track. His car passes the technical inspection, but his crew discourages him from asking too many questions about the engine. Trace has other problems as well, including the breakup of his parents' marriage and his mixed feelings about moving away from his friends and the girl he likes. With references to digital tachs, kill switches, drop-in valve springs, Street and Pure Stocks, Mini-Stocks, and Mod Fours, the novel is likely to appeal to youngsters who normally shy away from fiction. It seems probable, however, that these readers will be frustrated by having to wait for the next installment to see how the issues raised in this novel are resolved.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT

Gr 5–8—In Germany, in 1955, scars of the Nazi regime and anti-Semitism are still evident. When a school assignment includes researching a "good German" who opposed Hitler's government, Peter Liebig finds himself in a dilemna. He searches his parents' letters written during the war and finds a picture of a woman whose face he recognizes from his lifelong nightmares. Everything he has known about his family and upbringing is contradicted by his discovery that he is a Jewish boy, rescued and adopted by a woman working with the Red Cross when his biological mother was sent to Dachau. A conflict of emotions develops as Peter is angry and resentful yet still loves the parents he has known. At the same time he is disturbed by a sense of loyalty and a need to find out the true fate of his birth parents. Whelan's well-developed story line and characterization present a short, psychological drama of a boy struggling to come to terms with his past so that his future identity, be that Jewish or Christian, can be formed. Supporting roles of Peter's peers, as well as that of a new friend, a Holocaust survivor who helps him with gentle advice and a caring introduction to a Jewish environment, bring this boy's story full circle.—Rita Soltan, Youth Services Consultant, West Bloomfield, MI

Gr 6–10—Calder is a Fetch, a ghost who escorts souls from their "earthly shells" through the Death Door toward a waiting boat to Heaven. While each soul sees him differently, Calder knows himself to be a young man of 19 who died more than 300 years ago. Obsessed with a beautiful woman who tends a dying child, he breaks his sacred vows and enters the earthly world at a pivotal time and place: Russia, on the eve of revolution. Occupying the body of Rasputin, he enters into an intimate relationship with the imperial family, before and after their executions. As the action-filled plot, bound by the complex and sometimes confusing rules surrounding "Fetching," makes its twists and turns, Calder finds himself on a round-the-world journey with the embodied ghosts of Anastasia and Alexi, the hemophiliac tsarevich, in search of a key that will enable them to reunite with their family in Heaven. Meanwhile, the spirit of Rasputin and a host of malicious lost souls follow in hot pursuit. Only Ana, as the book calls her, sees Calder's true self. This fantasy, based on Christian themes of Heaven and Resurrection, is at its heart a tender love story. The author's romantic vision of the hereafter could be fodder for thoughtful discussion, as well as a satisfying escape for those who thrill to disembodied lovers.—Margaret A. Chang, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams

Gr 5–9—The 1986 explosion at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Station in the USSR had far-reaching effects, not only on the environment, but on people's lives as well. The author reveals these effects in this coming-of-age story. Katya Dubko celebrates her 11th birthday the day before the accident. When her father, a security guard at the station and obviously suffering from radiation sickness, comes home with the news, Katya's life is forever changed. Although she is forewarned about the disaster by a strange boy—her domovyk, or house elf—she is nonetheless unprepared. The government evacuates families, and Katya's beloved cottage, along with her childhood, are buried under tons of soil. She spends the next few years struggling to understand the catastrophe; the unwavering patriotism of her father, who has thyroid cancer; and discrimination from her peers. Photographs related to the disaster and Atkinson's traditional Ukrainian illustrations occasionally break up the text. References lend to the credibility of the content, and a glossary helps with difficult terminology.—Wendy Scalfaro, G. Ray Bodley High School, Fulton, NY

Gr 3–6—Following Archie's War (Candlewick, 2007), a fictional scrapbook of World War I, Williams offers an intricately designed and intimate look at World War II, as seen through the eyes of Archie's daughter. In her "secret war diary" that chronicles the years 1939 through 1945, motherless Flossie shares her thoughts in entries filled with humor and angst. She lives in the Dorset countryside in the gardener's cottage on a small estate with her great uncle and younger brother while her father is serving in the British army. Children will quickly come to enjoy Flossie's energetic delivery and endless doodling. They will love poring over the extras—asides, sidebars, and letters found under flaps and in envelopes, that Williams has compiled to give the book the feel that one has stumbled into a real girl's private keepsake. The book's font—called Flossie—is a mix of printing and cursive that adds to the authenticity but may pose a challenge for some readers. While many American children will not be familiar with Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain and singer Vera Lynn, they will come away with a great appreciation for the sacrifices of the English people as well as their resolve to carry on until peace reigns again. Children who enjoy history will be fascinated by Flossie and will undoubtedly be inspired to learn more about the events she describes.—Maura Bresnahan, High Plain Elementary School, Andover, MA

Gr 8–10—All Leticia wants to do is to mind her own business. She's too busy stewing about being assigned to early-morning math tutoring to worry about anyone else's problems. Sure, she's intrigued when she overhears bad-girl basketball player Dominique threaten to beat up bubbly, self-obsessed Trina for bumping her in the hallway—who wouldn't be excited to get the inside scoop on juicy gossip like a girl-on-girl fight after school? But she doesn't feel the need to get involved, even after she realizes that Trina didn't hear Dominique's threats and thus has no idea that she's going to get jumped. Will she follow best friend Bea's advice and warn Trina of the danger she faces, before a potential tragedy can unfold? In alternating chapters narrated by Leticia, Trina, and Dominique, Williams-Garcia has given her characters strong, individual voices that ring true to teenage speech, and she lets them make their choices without judgment or moralizing. Even the hostile, defensive Dominique is drawn in an evenhanded way that leaves this thought-provoking tale without a clear-cut villain. Teens will relate to Leticia's dilemma even as they may criticize her motives, and the ethical decision she faces will get readers thinking about the larger issues surrounding community, personal responsibility, and the concept of "snitching."—Meredith Robbins, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School, New York City

Gr 5–9—The theme of anti-Semitism is at the center of this novel set during the Hungarian blood libel trial in 1883. Poverty, despair, and grueling physical work make up the lives of the adults and children in the village of Tisza-Eszlar, where the Jewish and Christian communities are segregated yet intertwined in daily business. Julie, a Christian teen, works as a servant in the local jailhouse and is concerned about her friend Esther, a poorly treated maid. When she disappears, her crazed mother claims that the rabbi and the kosher butcher killed her daughter for her blood to make matzoh for the upcoming Passover holiday. The ills of religious superstition, prejudice, and false accusations are told from a first-person perspective through Julie. Witnesses are produced, including Morris Scharf, the young son of the accused rabbi. Morris, like a puppet, is manipulated and coerced into falsely making claims of watching the alleged crime, until Esther's drowned body is discovered in the village's river with no physical evidence of her death by a slaughterer's knife. Taking her cues from the actual trial transcripts, Wiseman develops a dialogue-driven account ranging from emotional hysteria to serene justice. And while the crux of this event revolves around the trial, Julie's personal struggle with her own abusive father detracts from the realistic drama unfolding for the real victims in the case. Still this is a plausible retelling of a little-known episode in the long history of anti-Semitism.—Rita Soltan, Youth Services Consultant, West Bloomfield, MI

Gr 7–10—An immigrant from China, Jason, 17, struggles with his father's betrayal of his mother when he left her for another woman and the underlying sentiments of racism in a small Canadian town. Smoking pot is his way of coping, and, because of this habit, he finds himself with a new group of friends. While he is happy that some people have accepted him, he also feels that he has fallen in with the wrong crowd. The exception is Chief, a First Nations boy who can identify with some of what Jason experiences as a minority. They both must make life-altering decisions when Jason gets charged with drug trafficking and tragedy befalls Chief's family. While the book should be a draw for reluctant readers, the brevity of the story leaves little room for character development or resolution. Those looking for titles covering similar issues with a broader emotional range may prefer Gene Luen Yang's American Born Chinese (Roaring Brook, 2006) or An Na's A Step from Heaven (Front St., 2001).—Joanna K. Fabicon, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 3–6—This tongue-in-cheek take on an atlas, arranged by continent, crams information into spreads and fold-out pages packed with detailed maps, other illustrations, and text. The inconsistent layout is a literacy teacher's nightmare, but a child's dream. The entries are different—some read left to right, and others start at the top right corner and traverse down four pages in a zigzag. Many students will find the ordered chaos delightful, and they will notice something new with each visit. The combination of facts with highly detailed, humorous, and sometimes irreverent art makes this browsing item just right.—Colleen D. Bocka, Nathaniel Rochester Community School, Rochester, NY

Gr 5–8—Fosta was bred on an Australian farm that specialized in horses for endurance riding. Believing that he was too small for the sport, his owners sold him to a family who wanted a riding horse for their daughter. He exchanged hands several times before being returned to his original home and began a career that would make him one of the greatest endurance horses ever in the country. Fosta's inspirational story is well told. The faith that his riders had in him and the details of the rigors of endurance riding are effectively captured. He overcame a venomous snake bite, struggled with a deep fear of traffic, and had an uncanny ability to open gates. Full-page black-and-white drawings are scattered throughout. Young horse lovers will enjoy reading about this unique sport and special marathon master.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 4–6—Beginning with the letter inviting him to sail aboard the Beagle, this traditional biography relates Darwin's life with an emphasis on the trip that led him to forge his theory about natural selection. Ashby makes good use of Darwin's own writing, sprinkling quotes throughout the text, which allow his adventures and opinions to come to life. A lengthy author's note at the end includes small black-and-white photos and useful information about science in Darwin's time, the Oxford debate, the Fuegian natives onboard the ship, and Darwin's presence on the British 10-pound note. Deborah Hopkinson's Who Was Charles Darwin? (Grosset & Dunlap, 2005) is shorter and includes many illustrations and sidebars. David C. King's Charles Darwin: A Photographic Story of a Life (DK, 2007) is also shorter, a bit harder to read, and filled with colorful photos, sketches, and sidebars. With its comfortably large font and the requisite more-than-one-hundred pages, this biography will work well for book reports, rather than research reports, providing accurate and readable information about the scientist and his journey.—Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA

Gr 4–8—Brightly written and augmented with activities, Web resources, and fun facts, this book profiles 20 European artists. Each chronological entry from Giotto to Van Gogh begins with a summary paragraph and a portrait before dropping readers into the artist's life. They accompany J.M.W. Turner as he sells a painting, and wait with Goya for the Spanish royal family, who are coming for a portrait sitting. Facts about each artist's life, technique, and importance are skillfully blended into these present-tense vignettes. The works of art chosen to represent each artist are heavy on the drama and detail, resulting in high kid appeal and interesting captions. In some cases, sketches are included. The book's design merits special mention: each artist's entry has its own palette, drawn from the works of art used as illustrations, and, despite the multitude of sidebars, the layout is clean and clear. Back matter includes "Chronologies of the Artists," locations of major collections of each artist's work, a glossary, and picture credits. Unfortunately, the title does not specify that this graceful, thoughtful volume covers only European artists, leading to the misleading—and offensive—impression that the author is declaring that the only important artists are European.—Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD

Gr 5–8—This update of the 2005 edition includes a large cover photo of Barack Obama, a foreword by him, revised coverage of George W. Bush's tenure, and a brief overview of Obama's political career and election. Four new two-page essays about topics related to the presidency—White House traditions, the relationship between presidents and the Supreme Court, the use of pollsters and polling in elections and governance, and campaigning—have been added. Two previous essays about campaigns and elections have been removed, leaving a total of 18 essays with subjects ranging from a history of the White House to the elder-statesman role played by former presidents. The remainder of the book is unchanged. The profiles range from one to six pages in length and are divided into six groups based upon broad historical eras. Each entry includes information and anecdotes about the man's family, education, political career and administration, and post-presidency. They all include a full-page reproduction of the president's official portrait and high-quality photos and illustrations. This book is attractive and readable and is a good choice for libraries that do not hold earlier editions and need material on the presidents. However, despite the inclusion of information about Obama, the revisions are not significant enough to warrant replacement by libraries that own the previous edition.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 4–6—The first third of this book, a quality overview of the building of the Muslim Empire, is the strength of the work. It is followed by chapters covering specific scientists and mathematicians from each century, which are not as strong, partly due to their organization. Each section describes the relevant location and time period in as many as three pages of text before introducing the subject. In the case of Alhazen, the story of how he feigned madness to avoid working for certain caliphs is told before discussing his accomplishments. Concepts are occasionally introduced without the proper context; the author uses the term "middle school" to refer to an institution one of the scientists attended as a child, for example. There is no explanation of why some of the scholars are referred to by their Latin names and others by their Arabic ones. The book offers only one experiment (submerging a stick to demonstrate light refraction) and one exercise (writing numbers in an ancient form studied by one of the featured mathematicians). Uneven art includes color photos, drawings, and sketches, with the sketches often overlaid on the photographs, giving an interesting effect. Overall, the book is a good introduction to the era, but it is less strong as a discussion of the science and invention of the title.—Alana Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT

Gr 4–7—This book looks at medieval society, folklore, and culture between the years 350 to 1450 and provides some hands-on activities along the way. Divided into 12 chapters, the text relates information on kings and queens, knights and armor, warfare, everyday life, and religious life. Projects include making a trebuchet, a marshmallow cannon, some period recipes, and a thatched roof. The material is well written and interesting. The "Words to Know" sections are not consistent in their placement in each chapter; some words appear before the list and, in other cases, in the next section. However, all of the words appear in the glossary so readers can skip directly to it to find words they may not understand. The directions for the projects are easy to follow for the most part, but the location of the supply list is inconsistent from one project to the next. All of the drawings, including those for the finished products, are in the same blue color as the text. Aside from some organizational problems, this is a useful text.—G. Alyssa Parkinson, Highland Township Library, MI

Gr 4–8—Impressive illustrations and a wide assortment of facts introduce notable buildings from around the globe. Each spread is filled with illuminating photographs, diagrams, and drawings, along with informative captions. Each section opens with general information about a type of building. In "Palaces," for example, a spread includes a paragraph of introductory text along with six captioned photos of notable examples. The second spread of each section focuses on a particular building, with a single drawing spanning two pages. "The Arts," for instance, depicts Spain's Guggenheim Museum, with 19 small text boxes and several cutaway views highlighting key features such as the use of titanium tiles outside and Richard Serra's 100-foot sculpture (The Snake) inside. "Building blocks" spreads utilize photos, diagrams, and drawings to spotlight specific elements involved in the construction of the featured building. China's Terracotta Army, in the section on "Pyramids and Tombs," includes a floor plan of the emperor's tomb and a "production line" drawing that illustrates how the statues were pieced together. The eye-catching photos and drawings include foldouts for the Empire State Building and the Moscow Underground, adding to browser appeal, but the book is more than just a collection of captioned pictures. The consistent progression from general to specific combines the facts, figures, and images into a meaningful and comprehensible framework for young readers. Three incomplete captions found on one spread do not mar this otherwise quality title.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 4–8—This collection of folktales by a master storyteller will make readers feel as if they have stepped into an Irish country farmhouse for an evening of tales near the hearth. The 13 stories range from legends of warriors such as Cuchulainn and Fionn Mac Cumhail, to tales of leprechauns and pookas, to stories of resourceful farmers and demanding landlords. The selections range from 4 to 10 pages in length, and are suitable for reading aloud. Each story contains a smattering of Gaelic names and phrases; pronunciation guides are included as footnotes, and a glossary expands upon unfamiliar terminology. The author provides a note at the beginning of each story to set the scene, and in the back matter he cites sources for the tales. Oleynikov's gouache illustrations provide a fitting accompaniment to the lyrical yet wild tone of the stories, at times haunting and mysterious, at times rollicking and playful. Booktalk this volume with Kate Thompson's The New Policeman (HarperCollins, 2007) for readers who are fascinated by Irish culture and legends.—Misti Tidman, Boyd County Public Library, Ashland, KY

Gr 9 Up—This is a well-organized, thoughtful examination of hip-hop culture in its many permutations. A timely and perceptive definition in the introduction defines hip-hop as an African-American urban youth culture and distinguishes it from rap. Burns explains that the culture originally consisted of four components: "rapping, DJ-ing, breakdancing, and graffiti art," providing a context for the essays that follow. Consisting of writings by scholars, journalists, and researchers, the chapters cover dance, graffiti art, and hip-hop as a social and political movement, as an extension of traditional Afrocentric cultural forms, and as a destructive force that endorses violence against women, gang affiliation, and crime. This text provides a history, a dissection, and a critique of the culture. A fairly extensive list of organizations to contact for additional information is included.—Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 4–8—Preceded by a time line of personal and public events, this biography begins with a brief discussion of the lives of Ellington's parents and his childhood introduction to music and instruments. As each chapter introduces separate highlights of the man's life and musical growth, sidebar articles emphasize historical milestones in music (the Harlem Renaissance, Jazz Pioneers, Tin Pan Alley, etc.) and the impact of individuals or events on his life. The book also features 21 interactive activities, each of which is positioned to provide a greater understanding of an instrument, performance, or music theory in jazz style (e.g., writing the blues, an improvisation exercise, illustrating sheet music covers, or dancing the Lindy Hop). Illustrations and the boxed information break up the text-heavy pages while the activities range from those suiting younger readers (experimenting with sound effects, making a shaker) to the more complicated (learning to read drum notation). This account of Ellington's life story reveals his late introduction to music as a career possibility and lightly touches on his personal relationships and lack of education. Illustrations include performance photographs and portraits of notable names from the Big Band era. Bibliographic references, recommended recordings and films, and annotated Web sites complete this thorough look at Ellington's musical life and legacy.—Mary Elam, Forman Elementary School, Plano, TX

Gr 4–7—Each of these books examines structures or cities from an archaeological point of view. Five chapters per book present the "discovery" of the site (pointing out that local people may have already known of it); identify its creators; lay out any questions or mysteries about it; and discuss conservation and future investigation. Photos and reproductions are plentiful, though drawn from stock resources. However, there are no maps and few diagrams, a puzzling omission given the remoteness of sites such as Machu Picchu and the complicated internal structure of Egyptian pyramids. Books in the "National Geographic Investigates" series cover most of these ancient cultures in greater depth and with the same emphasis on archaeology; the "Great Structures in History" series (Gale) includes books on Stonehenge, the Egyptian pyramids, and the Roman Colosseum and are more richly illustrated. Additional.—Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD

Gr 4–8—These books introduce the global economy by examining products that are bought and sold worldwide. Computers, for example, spends considerable time discussing gold mining, reasons why computers are made in China, and working conditions in that country. In addition, specific manufacturers and their various worldwide locations are mentioned, along with how the finished products reach the United States. DVDs and Whiteboards provide more information about the products' development, operation, uses, and future, and discuss the companies at the forefront of the technologies. DVDs, the strongest book, poses discussion-generating questions such as, "Do you think all international companies should agree to the same standards for the products they produce?" Each chapter opens with a fictionalized scenario in which a grandparent, teacher, or father introduces the topic through somewhat forced dialogue. All three titles include a world map that labels the locations mentioned. It is hard to define an audience for these works. Students will look to them for reports, but the texts focus more on international trade than on new technologies. Purchase as needed.—Stephanie Farnlacher, Trace Crossings Elementary School, Hoover, AL

Gr 9 Up—The wide variety of articles reprinted here include pieces from the American School Board Journal (in Policies), the Washington Post (in Vegetarianism), and Cosmetic Surgery Times (in Body Image). Accessible text and a clear layout make these strong resources, and colorful charts and graphs, color photos with informative captions, and a list of sources to contact add to their research value. The appendixes provide definitions, policies, and selected facts. The pro/con approach is popular, and the books will be useful for report writers of varying abilities.—Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Gr 4–8—Students have a variety of sources to peruse regarding countries, but these books stand out because of their accessible facts and excellent, plentiful color images. Short chapters cover geography, nature, history, culture, and government and economy. Text boxes extend into a variety of issues including popular culture, customs, and celebrations. Full-page, landscape-oriented maps afford wide insight into aspects of the lands such as physical features, vegetation and ecosystems, and population. The books discuss recent developments as well as historical milestones. They will satisfy general interests and needs for history, geography, world languages, or cross-curricular projects.—Beth McGuire, Fannett-Metal School District, Willow Hill, PA

Gr 5–9—It can be a challenge to understand the purpose of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and what it means. As former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson writes in her introduction, "We all believe in freedom, but what exactly does 'freedom' mean?" Accompanied by poems written by students from around the world and photographs that are sometimes startling and heartbreaking, sometimes invigorating and hopeful, the book reviews the 38 rights covered in the declaration. The first one, "All human beings are born free and with the same dignity and rights," inspires a poem from Mother Earth to her children written by an 18-year-old girl, and is paired with a black-and-white photograph of a two-week-old infant. Speaking to children with the notion that learning means understanding rather than memorizing, this book impresses on students that they should always be searching for the definition of freedom, and what human rights really mean to everyone.—Sarah O'Holla, Village Community School, New York City

Gr 4–6—French expands the simple introduction found in her picture book Diary of a Wombat (Clarion, 2007) into a longer account, nicely incorporating her experiences observing these animals with information on the wombat's physical characteristics, life cycle, and behavior. Small line drawings capture the creatures' various activities and body parts, and the informal, smoothly flowing narrative will engage readers who have an affinity for wildlife and those who enjoy reading about unusual species. The book concludes with explanations of how to observe wombats in the wild and the contemporary threats to their habitat. A final summation of "What I've Learned from Wombats" provides a deft set of life lessons for youngsters. This is a congenial selection for animal lovers that could also be a fun item for booktalking.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 9 Up—From Mao Zedong's China, Gay backtracks to the 1911 Wuchang Rebellion, but oversimplifies the multiple causes of the Manchus' ouster. Her informative account continues through the 1923–'28 conflict and up to the creation of the People's Republic of China in 1949. A thin time line, a useful who's who, source notes, and a list of 10 (mostly recent) books and 4 Web sites add value. Challenging vocabulary is explained parenthetically (although the explanation of "fascist" is misleading). Gay sometimes cites popular sentiment without sources or explanation (she states that in 1914 peasants ignored politics for peace, but in 1915 they wanted a republic at all costs). She omits the intellectual "New Culture" revolution entirely. Abundant illustrations are well chosen (but the two maps are too few and too small). Overall, however, this account is readable and interesting, and the subject is important. A brief epilogue takes the story to the present.—Patricia D. Lothrop, St. George's School, Newport, RI

Gr 4–7—These books include general overviews and discussions of basic beliefs, scriptures, worship, festivals, clothes, food, and events related to birth, growing up, marriage, and death. They are physically attractive, with color photos, floor plans of places of worship, and clear print. However, they are severely flawed. Despite the generic introduction explaining what constitutes a world religion, the photos fail to show the diversity of each group. The glossaries are superficial and leave out numerous terms; definitions are often unhelpful. Although each book presents two major leaders and several "important" representatives, there is little history or background. Sections on holidays and celebrations only mention a handful; Judaism doesn't explain the key feast of Passover. The maps just identify top countries by percentage of population, although the texts refer to many additional nations. Numerous items aren't adequately explained. Islam incorrectly gives approximate Western months for festivals, whereas they rotate year by year and never stay the same (there's no mention of a lunar calendar). Judaism misleadingly says the eighth commandment is "Do not kidnap" (it's "Do not steal").—Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

Gr 4–8—While it is likely that each of these titles will attract a distinct audience, some of the information is repeated and applies to the writing craft in general. Both books make suggestions for selecting a topic, creating a positive work environment, editing, and submitting work for publication. Article writers will take away excellent advice on how to conduct an interview, develop powerful lead sentences, and adhere to the rule of objectivity while maintaining one's writer's voice. However, Gilbert merely mentions blogs and Web sites without balancing these journalistic avenues with traditional print counterparts. In some instances identical text is used. Both authors state: "Even famous writers sometimes get stuck for words and ideas. This is called writer's block." Repetition aside, there is much useful information provided. Students wishing to explore the graphic-novel format will benefit from clear explanations of how to portray heroes and villains, use dramatic dialogue, and create a story map. Excerpts from several popular graphic novels are included. Both books have full-color photos, graphics, and tinted text boxes on nearly every page. Solid selections for aspiring writers.—Gloria Koster, West School, New Canaan, CT

Gr 3–6—In a relatively approachable narrative peppered with a generous supply of direct quotations, Harness gives the details of Irving's life, along with contextual historical information. The book's casual tone makes for pleasant reading, though transitions are sometimes abrupt. Earth-toned panel illustrations adorn each page with scenes from Irving's childhood and later life, his characters, and maps of his travels. The captions serve as the only headings throughout the work, making this biography better suited for sustained reading than quick reference.—Jayne Damron, Farmington Community Library, MI

Gr 2–6—In this follow-up to How to Draw Cartoon Animals (Watson-Guptill, 1995), Hart shows young artists how to draw an impressive array of creatures. He includes many different animals, such as bears, penguins, horses, dogs, and cats, as well as a variety of breeds. In the introduction, Hart explains that this book includes edgier styles and more retro characters than his first book. The step-by-step, black-and-white outlines are accessible to beginning artists as well as those with more experience. The humorous and engaging characters include different cartoon "types" such as the evil genius or ultra-cute kitten, and there is a wide range of facial expressions as well. The simple text that accompanies each drawing explains the artist's choices and focuses readers' attention on important details in each drawing. Children will love this thorough and easy-to-use how-to guide.—Mari Pongkhamsing, St. Perpetua School, Lafayette, CA

Gr 4–8—These titles serve as general introductions to their subjects. Each book has fresh and appealing page layouts that combine graphic elements with color photographs or reproductions. Buildings features public spaces and private residences created from a variety of materials. Every page includes a paragraph about the structure with glossary terms in bold type. Drawings zips from Michelangelo to Machiko Hasegawa to cover the purposes served by classical sketches and modern-day cartoons. The author engages readers by posing questions about the images. Paintings is a survey of many styles, including Pop Art and photorealism. All three titles are consistent in quality of design and content. However, a few of the pieces selected for inclusion in Paintings contain details that are difficult to see on a small scale. Neat and informative, these titles are good tools for beginning discussions of their subject matter.—Lisa Glasscock, Columbine Public Library, Littleton, CO

Gr 2–6—Following explorations of poetry as in A Poke in the I (2001) and A Kick in the Head (2005, both Candlewick), this title encourages readers and listeners to investigate poetry as sound. The 38 selections are all great read-alouds and range from old favorites like Lewis Carroll's "Jabberwocky" and A. A. Milne's "Us Two" to new discoveries like George Ella Lyon's "Favorite" and Charles R. Smith, Jr.'s "Where It Began." Skillfully chosen, the poems cover a thought-provoking array of topics weaving seamlessly from silly to solemn to spooky. The table of contents is arranged into poems for one voice, tongue-twisters, two voices, list poems, three voices, short poems, bilingual poems, rhymed poems, limericks, and group poems. The spot illustrations done in bright but soft watercolors, ink, and torn paper beautifully enhance each piece without ever overpowering. With much to offer for both classroom use and pleasure reading, this delightful addition to the series should be a first purchase.—Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA

Gr 6 Up—On December 1, 1997, 15-year-old Missy Jenkins was wounded by Michael Carneal at their high school in West Paducah, KY, in one of the first school shootings in the United States. She was instantly paralyzed from the chest down as she watched him kill three of her classmates and injure four more. This memoir explains the horrific events of that day and all the difficult days that followed. The author's message is one of hope and forgiveness—she writes frequently of how important it was for her to forgive Michael and move forward with her life. She also talks extensively about living each day to the fullest and appreciating all that she has, regardless of her disability. Jenkins credits her faith in God in helping her to heal both physically and mentally. Her story is inspiring and compelling, but the entire chapter dedicated to Michael's interrogation by police seems a bit long. Small, black-and-white photos show the milestones in her life, including her high school graduation, her wedding, and her husband and young son. This would be an interesting book to pair up with a unit on conflict resolution or in a discussion of school violence and bullying.—Traci Glass, Eugene Public Library, OR

Gr 4–6—These novelty books have unusual cushioned covers that are similar to photo albums and feature a large, realistic, color illustration of the subject in attack mode. The title and portions of the illustration are embossed, giving them a quasi-3-D effect, enhanced by a plastic button eye. On most of a series of picture spreads, short paragraphs of text in small print accompany two or more color drawings of representative species; a few body parts are also depicted. Each title briefly describes major physical and behavioral characteristics as well as diets, life cycles, and distinctive characteristics of over two dozen species. Special features include two or three pop-ups, the most effective being the head of a great white (Sharks) and a coiled cobra (Snakes) that lunges at readers when the page is turned; color drawings with moveable parts (e.g., a shark's fin moves ominously back and forth in a slot; a paper wheel displays a rattlesnake's prey animals); and about a half dozen illustrated paper flaps, beneath which are extended captions with facts about the animals depicted. Splotch-shaped sidebars offer more trivia. While most of the scientific terms employed are explained as they appear, words such as "cartilage," "tendrils," and "ligaments" are not defined. Beverly McMillan and John A. Musick's Sharks (S & S, 2008) and Seymour Simon's Snakes (HarperCollins, 2007) offer more detailed information. While the eye-catching covers will entice browsers, these books ultimately promise more than they deliver.—Karey Wehner, formerly at San Francisco Public Library

Gr 9 Up—A Los Angeles Superior Court judge details citations and situations that may result in a teenager's arrest and/or trial. From speeding tickets to curfew violations to drug- and alcohol-related issues, Krygier explains court terminology and due process in a clear and concise, though somewhat dry manner. The highlighted tips on many pages offer sound advice on issues such as how to dress for court, how to address a judge, and how to stay out of trouble in the first place. Each chapter begins with statements from real teenagers ruminating on their court experiences. Many of them are choppy, confusing, and grammatically questionable, and they might well distract readers. However, the text itself provides a solid, honest view of the juvenile justice system. The book includes a helpful compendium of documents that one might come across in the judiciary process.—Kelly McGorray, Glenbard South High School, Glen Ellyn, IL

Gr 8 Up—This detailed, concise work covers the many interrelated aspects of the phenomenon clearly. The eight chapters address such topics as natural, long-term variations; shrinking glaciers; and human effects, interspersed with mini-lessons on, for example, carbon sequestration and China's effort to tide the growth of the Gobi desert. The chapter on human contributions to global warming describes findings from the past 100 years and the conclusions of the 2007 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Though this impartial discussion of "anthropogenic change" is reason enough to buy the book (and is a great complement to a viewing of Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth), there are other unexpected bonuses. For example, the explanations of how plate tectonics affects climate (which is rarely covered) and how seasons occur are both exceptionally easy to understand. Where possible, examples of changing landscapes and patterns in the United States are included, so that students in many areas of the country will easily identify with the processes discussed. Unfortunately, some of the black-and-white photographs, graphs, tables, and maps are unclear. Purchase this for the text, which will work well for students completing in-depth reports on the environment and earth science.—Henrietta Thornton-Verma, School Library Journal

Gr 6 Up— Nefertiti and Queen of Sheba present the historical and cultural context surrounding these ancient leaders. Credit is due to the authors of these volumes, as few primary historical sources pertaining to these women exist, and the relevant archaeological record is far from complete. Thus, the information deals less with the specifics of the respective leaders and more with their worlds and times, including religious and political issues. The authors use speculation, derived from both tradition and scholarship, as to who these ancient leaders may have been and how they might have governed. For instance, Queen of Sheba references various oral traditions from Europe, the Middle East, and Ethiopia to reveal aspects of the woman's personality. Classical paintings and full-color photographs of sculptures, landscapes, and archaeological finds complement the text; unfortunately, maps are not included. There are moments when the text is too general, as when Nefertiti states, "As with all religions, the Egyptians had creation stories that explained how life began." But overall, the texts are easily digestible and appropriate for the intended age group. Arthur Schlesinger, Jr., adds a scholarly hand to this series with the foreword, "On Leadership." These volumes shine some light onto important female rulers whose representations have been obscured by the passage of time.—Jeff Meyer, Slater Public Library, IA

Gr 4–6—Children in search of a unique answer to the question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" will appreciate this book. Unusual occupations such as lobsterman, chocolatier, kite designer, and pet photographer are described. Each spread introduces someone in the trade (most are Caucasian), includes "on the job" photographs, and provides a brief, introductory description of what it is like to be an alpaca farmer, robotics engineer, etc. This title may spark some readers' interest with its quirky careers, but it includes very little detail. The contact information for special-interest summer camps might be its most helpful part. The "Virtual Apprentice" series (Ferguson) is a better resource for more in-depth information.—Christine Lindsey, Lake Superior Primary School, Ashland, WI

Gr 3–6—A somewhat bug-eyed Darwin tells the story of his journey on the Beagle and the development of his theory of evolution. Journal entries make good use of quotations from his own writing, while captioned insets add information on the people, animals, places, and ideas he encountered on the historic trip. The authors make it clear that Darwin was aware of the controversial nature of his theory, quoting, "Publishing my theory felt like confessing a murder." Cartoon illustrations in pencil and watercolor aim for the gross and startling aspects of the adventure: blood spewing from a screaming man having his leg amputated without anesthetic, a seasick Darwin vomiting over the side of the Beagle, or spitting a beetle out of his mouth. In a crowded field of picture-book biographies, this title is not as strong as Kathryn Lasky's One Beetle Too Many (Candlewick), Rosalyn Schanzer's What Darwin Saw (National Geographic), or Alice B. McGinty's Darwin (Houghton, all 2009).—Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA

Gr 9 Up—Marler analyzes the life and works of the accomplished author. The first two chapters are devoted to a brief biography and the historical and cultural influences on Myers's writing. The remainder of the volume looks at his books, including comparisons of plots and characters as well as thematic development within each novel. An entire chapter is devoted to Fallen Angels. The last two sections discuss Monster and Shooter. Throughout the book, Marler emphasizes the importance of Myers's writings and their significance to teens facing socioeconomic challenges. The lack of any internal photos or graphics gives the book a scholarly appearance. Indeed, the writing is dry and best suited for students doing research papers rather than those seeking leisure reading. Denise Jordan's Walter Dean Myers (Enslow, 1999) has many photographs of the writer throughout his life and Myers's own Bad Boy: A Memoir (HarperCollins, 2001) is full of lively anecdotes. Amy Sickels's Walter Dean Myers (Chelsea House, 2008) is also more accessible, but contains less analysis of his works.—Linda L. Plevak, Northeast Lakeview College, Universal City, TX

Gr 5–8—Based on Martin's adult book Beethoven's Hair: An Extraordinary Historical Odyssey and Scientific Mystery Solved (Broadway, 2000), this reworking for a young audience presents an intriguing interdisciplinary story. Martin and Nibley trace the labyrinthine journey of a lock of Beethoven's hair encased in a glass and wooden locket from the 18th century to the present. Using a balanced mix of verifiable research and some conjecture, they explain the lock's odyssey over time and how it was ultimately acquired by two American Beethoven aficionados in 1994. The perseverance and passion of these men provided the impetus for scientific analysis to seek a physiological explanation for Beethoven's lifelong struggle with myriad physical and emotional problems. The contemporary story of the lock's travels and examination is interspersed with the history of Beethoven's musical genius. Aspects of the Holocaust and the courageous defiance of the Nazis by the Danish resistance become a significant part of the mystery. This is a most unusual, thoroughly researched detective story written in a clearly accessible and lively tone. Black-and-white photos and reproductions appear throughout. Concluding notes offer young people advice about research and explain what narrative nonfiction is and how the authors used it in this book. Though obviously a selection suited for research projects, it is also an incredibly readable and absorbing selection that demonstrates the multidimensional nature of true scholarship.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 6–8—"For you the war is over." These were the first words translated from German heard by most downed Allied pilots when rounded up as POWs during World War II. For the British RAF, the first code of conduct was to escape. Those who did make it out were usually caught and returned and, under the rules of the Geneva Convention, punished without fatal consequences. A group of highly crafty, daring, and determined POWs in Stalag Luft III, comprised of dedicated British and American servicemen, used disciplined secret planning and organized execution with basic engineering and mining knowledge to pull off "the Great Escape." Meserole's compelling narrative takes readers through the early days of strategic thinking to the amazing nail-biting escape through a 30-foot-deep tunnel on a moonless night in late winter. The easy-to-read text, embellished with drawings of tunnel blueprints and black-and-white photos of the events, vividly describes the ingenuity and hard labor of several hundred men who not only clandestinely dug and disposed of tons of sand, but also created tools from scraps of metal and wood, civilian clothing, and counterfeit documents right under the noses of their captors. The author is careful to create suspense and intrigue but brings his account to an honest conclusion with the Nazis's vengeful response to the event. This story has been previously told on film as well as in print, but it will nevertheless interest today's readers.—Rita Soltan, Youth Services Consultant, West Bloomfield, MI

Gr 6–10—Just as epicurean geology professor Dr. William Buckland is said to have eaten the embalmed heart of French King Louis XIV, students will devour Noyes's new book. Chock-full of fascinating facts, this is an alphabetically arranged compendium of enthralling yet easy-to-understand entries from "Amulet" to "Exhumation" to "Widow Sacrifice." The encyclopedic style renders the scope much less daunting than a straight narrative, as students can digest a bit at a time without getting lost. Readers will enjoy learning how bees and animal entrails have been used to predict the future, how mummies were embalmed in ancient Egypt, and how spirit photographers attempted to capture images of the souls of the dearly departed. The book is both comprehensive and compulsively readable, and even the most reluctant readers will find themselves caught up in the vivid descriptions and colorful photos and reproductions. A visually pleasing and attention-grabbing offering.—Kelly McGorray, Glenbard South High School, Glen Ellyn, IL

Gr 6—9—Feel Good attempts to cover a variety of topics (nutrition, sports, puberty, role models, making friends) but fails to provide substantial information on any of them. For example, eating well is discussed, but exactly what makes certain foods nutritious is never explained. Advice is abundant (do not "show that you are...scared" when being bullied) with few or no references. The discussion of anorexia/bulimia needs a firmer conclusion than simply to get "help from a medical professional." The end-of-chapter quizzes seem contrived and do not add to the content. The chapter "How You Feel Inside" talks about becoming "withdrawn and remote," but fails to address the more serious topic of depression. This title has nothing to add to the plethora of teen self-help and nutrition titles available. Spilsbury's titles are more successful in that they use constructive examples and relate the topics to teens' lives. Anger gives an overview of the emotion and how it affects teens, including bullying, self-mutilation, and dealing with hostility in others. Readers needing a self-help book, however, will have to look elsewhere. Together covers methods for creating, building, and managing an effective team. Both texts are unassuming and breezy in tone. End-of-chapter quizzes make the information more personal. These are solid purchases for libraries in need of the subject matter. Photos for all three titles are clear, in color, and represent various ethnicities, ages, and backgrounds.—Richelle Roth, Wilmington Public Library, OH

Gr 4–8—This heavily illustrated survey starts off with a map and brief discussion of current-day Iran and the history of its languages. The following pages have an "Eyewitness"-style text, with an introductory paragraph and spreads replete with full-color photos. Chronologically organized, the sections focus on the different ancient peoples, such as the Elamites and Achaemenians, who inhabited the Iranian Plateau over the centuries. Discussions of different aspects such as religion, food, art, and politics along with photos, maps, and reproductions bring these cultures to life. A detailed glossary, index, and time line increase the usefulness of this volume. A solid overview of the period up to A.D. 651 and an interesting look at a country so often in the news, this volume shows the rich and complex history of the region.—Clare A. Dombrowski, Amesbury Public Library, MA

Gr 4–6—With their simple vocabulary and sentence structure, these books are aimed at students who read well below grade level. Each page has two or three short paragraphs of text. Rosie discusses the role of American women during World War II both as part of the home-front workforce and in the armed forces. Copies of documents, good photographs, and posters are included. The second title deals with life in Salem and the horrors of the witch hunts in the late 17th century. It includes full-color reproductions. The books do offer some good information, but, because of their hi/lo nature, librarians probably would only want to purchase them where graded materials are needed. For a book on working women during World War II, Penny Colman's Rosie the Riveter (Crown, 1998) can't be beat; books on the Salem Witch Trials abound.—Lynda Ritterman, formerly at Atco Elementary School, NJ

Gr 4–6—Each volume presents short accounts of 10 significant storms. In a matter-of-fact tone, the details of each one are described, while color photos illustrate the resulting damage, conveying a significant part of the information through their captions. Eyewitness accounts are featured, as is statistical data for each storm, including its date, location, and casualties. Although most of the events were in North America, other interesting stories include tornadoes in Bangladesh, eastern hemisphere cyclones and typhoons, and the Chinese blizzard of 2008. Blizzards also includes the stories of Scott's Antarctic expedition, the origins of the Iditarod, the 1996 Mount Everest climbing disaster, and the tale of the Donner party in addition to accounts of storms in more populated areas. Explanations of weather terms, such as wind chill and the Enhanced Fujita Scale, are included; additional facts are boxed off from the text; and preparation/safety tips are appended. Blizzards is an especially useful book, while Hurricanes and Tornadoes will be worthwhile additions where more information on these occurrences is needed.—Jeffrey A. French, formerly at Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Gr 6–9—In addition to offering interesting biographical facts and commentary on the work of these artists, each chapter includes one page about a related person or event under the heading "For Your Information." Rembrandt tracks the artist's rise to fame and the bitter years and bankruptcy that followed. The profile of Munch explains how the artist attempted to convey his deep feelings of anxiety in his paintings. He became preoccupied with death at an early age, and he also created many works alluding to the disastrous results that can occur in relationships between men and women. One chapter includes some slightly gory details about the day Munch's lover shot his hand as he tried to keep her from killing herself. Each book includes color reproductions. Both titles go beyond basic facts, providing historical context and significance of the art and the artist. These titles provide plenty of information for reports in a reader-friendly format.—Lisa Glasscock, Columbine Public Library, Littleton, CO

Gr 8–10—It is difficult to understand why this title is included in a series that looks at UFOs, alien abductions, ghosts, and vampires. While all of the previous subjects are mysteries of an otherworldly nature, Kennedy's assassination is a fact of history. Chapters address the Camelot appeal of JFK and Jackie, the history of the anti-Kennedy sentiment in the South, gruesome details of the murder and its aftermath, and the hunt for the assassin. The majority of the book poses suggestions for possible conspiracies. The questions regarding the number of bullets fired and how they entered and exited Kennedy's body have cast doubt on the Warren Commission's findings for decades, yet the only discernible new information in this volume is that modern technologies now allow experts to look at the evidence in different ways. The sidebars of eyewitness quotations, "Did you know?" segments, and photos bring the incident to life. Over time there have been dozens of books written about this sad chapter in American history. Libraries already owning a solid account of the assassination and its investigation can skip this one.—Joanne K. Cecere, Monroe-Woodbury High School, Central Valley, NY

Gr 5–8—Toussaint, born a slave in the French colony of St. Domingue, led the first successful slave uprising in the Americas in 1793, defeating first the French and then the British and American opportunists who hoped to take advantage of the new country. The Haitian revolution is put in context with those in America and France, and its significance is made clear as Rockwell connects Napoleon's defeat in Haiti with his willingness to sell French Louisiana to the United States. Christie's bold, naive gouache illustrations invoke Haiti's beauty and savage history. The scene of Toussaint preventing a fellow revolutionary from unnecessarily killing a white man and the rendering of the bleak French prison in which the hero died are particularly striking. Altogether, this is a beautiful and captivating portrait of a leader whose story will probably be unfamiliar to most youngsters. Written for an older audience than Walter Dean Myers's Toussaint L'Ouverture: The Fight for Haiti's Freedom (S & S, 1996), it is a welcome addition to biography and history collections.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

Gr 4–6—Each of these innovative, up-to-date titles explores the work of five scientists or research teams. In Ants, all five chapters concern ant behavior, whereas Penguins examines the behavior of several birds and reptiles. In each case, the purpose and methodology of the research are explained. Color photos clarify the text, which is precise and clear, but definitely scientific and sometimes challenging. Some topics are more engaging than others: the story of army ants plugging potholes with their bodies so that others can walk over them is more compelling than a study of how light refraction affects the colors of peacocks' feathers. Each title includes an activity related to one of the studies. They are appropriate and easy to perform, but, because they do not involve animals, they may not be particularly appealing to readers attracted to the books. Despite the tabloid-style covers, these titles contain serious, footnoted science. Children considering related careers will be well-served by these glimpses into the current work of animal scientists in the field.—Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA

Gr 6–8—In 1958, Holocaust deniers disrupted a theater performance of The Diary of Anne Frank. In response, the well-known Nazi hunter Simon Wiesenthal vowed to prove Anne's story true by finding the Gestapo officer who'd arrested her and her family. Much detective work led to the 1963 discovery of the man in question. This "hook" is the framing story for a picture-book biography chronicling Wiesenthal's experiences during World War II and illustrating the development of his unusual career. The book is meticulously researched and packed with dates, facts, and quotes from the subject and others. Back matter includes an overview of Wiesenthal's life. The amount of detail, while admirably scholarly, makes the text rather dense and dry, and casual readers will find it slowgoing. Farnsworth's dark, realistic paintings are quietly dignified. The scenes have a cinematic drama in their use of lighting and in the contrasts between long shots and close-ups. This book is highly recommended for Holocaust collections, but it will be best appreciated by sophisticated readers or those with an already strong interest in the subject.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

Gr 3–6—Among the new picture books about Darwin being published for his bicentennial birthday, this one stands up well. On the cover, a wide-eyed, handsome Charley Darwin peers through lush greenery at the top, and an equally wide-eyed and handsome monkey ignores him at the bottom. Inside, Schanzer uses Darwin's own words, taken from his journals, books, and letters, in the speech balloons of her graphic depiction of the voyage of the Beagle. This is not a full biography, but begins with Darwin's acceptance of the offer to sail on the expedition and ends with the presentation of his theory of evolution in 1860. Bright, watercolor cartoons accurately portray landscapes and specimens while also creating a vivid sense of adventure. Schanzer's dedication is to her rabbi grandfather, who served as an advisor to Clarence Darrow at the Scopes trial, but in this book for young children, the controversies that surround Darwin's theory are not presented. Similar to Kathryn Lasky's One Beetle Too Many (Candlewick), this title pairs up nicely with Alice McGinty's Darwin (Houghton, both 2009) to give young readers a picture of the man and his adventures.—Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA

Gr 4–7—It takes an eloquent weaver of words to entice readers into the world of rural, pre-World War II Ukraine, and Siegal does just that in these nine exquisite tales. Youngsters visit Babi's farm and the town of Komjaty, seeing it through the eyes of young Aranka, who spent summers there with her grandmother. The beauty of the countryside comes through, but so does the anti-Semitism, the superstitions, and the poverty. The stories and the lessons learned resonate as the character and readers discover life in the Carpathian Mountains together. The love between grandmother and granddaughter especially shines through as Siegal retells the lessons that she asserts have become even more meaningful to her in the intervening years.—Ernie Bond, Salisbury University, MD

Gr 9 Up—Smithson experienced the events of 9/11 while in high school and responded by enlisting in the Army Reserve after graduation. He married his high school sweetheart before being deployed to Iraq. Once there, he worked as an equipment operator in an equipment platoon, and while mortar fire was a regular occurrence, the missions he describes were all about bulldozing berms, filling craters created by IEDs, and convoying lumber. One gruesome section describes salvaging parts from Humvees in which soldiers died. A few missions, though, were more in the line of favors to the local population than anything that helps combatants. Some of the author's most poignant passages are his descriptions of interactions with Iraqi children. Where he was expecting rock-throwing, he encountered barefoot, dirty children grateful for the water the soldiers gave them. It is these children and the villagers he met that help explain for him the purpose of the war. The book ends with Smithson's return home, his almost magical escape from night terrors, and his work with children in his own hometown. Writing proves to be his therapy for PTSD. There are mixed metaphors aplenty, crude and morbid humor, and other evidence of a young author, but it all works together to create a tough but powerful look at one man's experience.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 6–9—Soto skillfully captures the voice and emotions of young teens in love. The free verse poems are grouped together in two sections: "A Girl's Tears, Her Songs" and "A Boy's Body, His Words." There are selections about first kisses ("I haven't been kissed, /But I'm waiting"), young love ("We were young, not yet fourteen./What chance could our love have/In a world so rough?"), jealousy ("You narrowed your eyes at me,/Flashed red coals from deep inside you"), and rejection ("When she said no,/I took my loneliness to the river"). In "Danger" a boy says, "If I knew you were in trouble,/I would take a shovel and shovel my way/To your house, six blocks away,/And risk live wires hissing like snakes./Love, I know, can be hazardous to my health." Since many of the narrators are 13 or 14 years old, these short, accessible poems will appeal to middle schoolers, especially. A great addition to poetry collections.—Ann Nored, Wilson Central High School, Lebanon, TN

Gr 7 Up—In 23 poems, Spires pays homage to a little-known folk sculptor, William Edmondson. Born on a former plantation outside Nashville in 1874, he was well into his 50s and had spent nearly a lifetime in a variety of jobs ranging from racehorse swipe to janitor when he heard God speaking to him. In the vision, God told him to pick up his tools and carve leftover bits of stone into a tombstone. This divine directive would lead Edmondson to create not only tombstones, but also sculptures and become the first black artist to have a solo show at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Each of Spires's poems is accompanied by a full-page, black-and-white photograph, either of Edmondson or of one of his works. Poems paired with photographs of the sculptor weave in some of the artist's own words to flesh out his biography. In poems paired with images of his works, the verse gives voice to the piece itself. The "Three Crows," for example, proclaim "'cause Will made us /cooler than cool, three crows/looking over your shoulder.'" Though this personification feels forced or simplistic in a poem or two, in others the simplicity matches the unassuming nature of the subject itself. All in all, Spires has presented readers with a delightful glimpse into the life and work of a relative unknown. This is a special book.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 5–7—Stone adopts a tone of righteous indignation in chronicling the quixotic efforts of 13 women to win admission into NASA's initial astronaut training program in the early 1960s. The women were all pilots (one, Jerrie Cobb, had more hours in the air than John Glenn or Scott Carpenter), earned high scores in preliminary tests, and even counted a senator's wife among their number. But resistance came from all directions—including NASA regulations, which were weighted toward men; media coverage that reflected contemporary gender expectations; political maneuvering by then vice president LBJ and other officials; and the crushing opposition expressed by renowned aviatrix Jackie Cochran in a 1962 Congressional hearing. Properly noting, however, that losing "depends on where you draw the finish line," the author closes with chapters on how women did ultimately win their way into space—not only as mission specialists, but also as pilots and commanders. Illustrated with sheaves of photos, and based on published sources, recently discovered documents, and original interviews with surviving members of the "Mercury 13," this passionately written account of a classic but little-known challenge to established gender prejudices also introduces readers to a select group of courageous, independent women.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 4–6—A boy gazes from his nighttime window, dreaming of New York, "the great city on the river that bore my name—Hudson." This personalized opening has the look of a bedtime story and may deter some readers, but Talbott uses dreams as a theme around which he winds an engaging history. He adroitly utilizes the picture-book format to chronicle the Hudson's course through the experiences of various dreamers. He describes the long period of habitation by Native peoples, settlement by Holland and then by England, the "American" revolt against English rule, the post-Revolution boom in shipping traffic, the building of the Erie Canal, and more. Watercolor, colored pencil, and ink illustrations are filled with scenes that are sometimes realistic, at other times more fanciful. A few spreads have color blocks, vignettes, information bits, and a winding river that bears significant dates. The river hit hard times as the rush to commerce made it a dumping ground; it is now in recovery. Echoing the opening tone, he closes with a romanticized and personal note: "It's now my turn to help in keeping the river of dreams flowing, for all those dreamers yet to come." The further reading list and Web sites are of adult interest, but the well-crafted story is an informative and interesting account for personal reading or classroom units in history or environmental issues.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 5–8—Tarbox introduces ascending links of a food chain through well-written prose accompanied by striking, full-color photographs. For example, Ocean focuses on plankton, sardines, Pacific salmon, sea lions, and killer whales, providing facts about each topic as well as information about predator-prey relationships. The books assume a basic knowledge of the food-chain concept, since the same single-page generic explanation occurs at the start of each volume. Unfortunately, the interesting narrative flow is interrupted by spreads about other animals, which are more distracting than enlightening. Most problematic are the choices for Mountain. After establishing the Rocky Mountains as a focus, the main text concentrates on a food chain in that region. Oddly, the additional animals include the Andean condor, giant panda, and Himalayan snow leopard, resulting in a mix that makes the book difficult to recommend. The other two volumes might serve as supplementary resources for those with background knowledge of food chains. Arctic Tundra offers the most connections among the main food-chain explanations and the additional animals presented. None of the books have diagrams or maps.—Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Gr 4–6—These titles streamline forensics with short, informative sentences and large typeface. Each one walks readers through a case that is solved by the conclusion. The books begin with the discovery of a body (Bone Detectives), or a bank robbery (Prints), and continue with steps such as examining the size and shape of a skeleton to determine a victim's characteristics and cause of death, or comparing crime-scene fingerprints to those in a police database. The labeled illustrations enhance the mystery and allow readers to follow the methodology used in CSI. Bone Detectives deals with death in a factual manner, omitting gruesome details. Questions are intermittently posed, and the answers are contained in bubbles on the same page. Interesting facts are sprinkled throughout in text boxes labeled "Is That a Fact?" and, in Bone Detectives, "Need to Know." The style is more appealing than that in the similar "Forensic Crime Solvers" series (Capstone), but those books provide a better list of additional print and online resources.—Lori A. Guenthner, Baltimore County Public Library, Randallstown, MD

Gr 5–8—This thoroughly researched and carefully documented look at a pivotal civil rights battle offers fresh insights into the people and events that played out over the course of one school year. What motivated nine black teenagers, commonly referred to as "the Little Rock Nine," to integrate an all-white school in Little Rock, AR, in September 1957 is presented along with the politics of the community, the state, and the nation. The book begins as Elizabeth Eckford prepares for what she believes will be the first day at her new high school and ends nine grueling months later when Ernest Green, the only senior in the group, graduates. Specific students, teachers, members of the military, and other adults are identified and where possible quoted either from primary sources or from background interviews by the author. An introduction by Terrence J. Roberts, PhD, one of the nine students, adds further credence to the material. Carefully selected archival photographs support and clarify the text. An epilogue describes Little Rock's ongoing school integration efforts. An annotated time line of the Civil Rights Movement, selected postscripts on key participants, and quote sources complete this thought-provoking and handsome book.—Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI

Gr 6–9—Waters is founder of The Edible Schoolyard, a gardening and cooking program on the campus of a Berkeley, CA, middle school. An organic garden on school grounds is tended and harvested by students, with hands-on ecology and nutrition lessons woven into the curriculum. The book details the history of the program while passionately touting the physical, psychological, and spiritual benefits that arise from it. Bright photographs show the engaged youngsters at work and close-ups of the lush flora and garden fauna. Extensive back matter includes the principles of "edible education," food-related writings by some of the children, recipes, and notes that provide context for the photos on earlier pages. The text is essentially a long essay by Waters, a combination of chronology mixed with emotional storytelling. A bit rambly, and not really geared toward young readers, it may capture the interest of nature-loving kids but will likely be of more interest to adults. In a way, the whole package feels like a well-produced annual report or fundraising document for the program. Perhaps the best audience for the book would be principals looking for inspiring ideas to try at their own schools. A lovely product, but with narrow appeal to young readers.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL