Grades 5 & Up

Gr 8 Up—In this conclusion to the series that began in Peaches (HarperCollins, 2005), the author delights once again with more friendship, love, and, of course, peaches. Leeda and Murphy, both living in New York City, and Birdie, studying in Mexico, return to Darlington Orchard where they once again bond. Leeda is home to listen to the reading of her grandmother's will, thinking she will be back at Columbia University and in her boyfriend's arms in two weeks. She finds herself staying longer than expected and encounters changes that make her question who she is. Murphy comes face to face with her past, including her first love whom she turned her back on before leaving. Birdie Darlington abruptly returns home on a whim. She discovers that the orchard is up for sale and that her house is falling down. Determined to save both, she must learn the hard lessons of letting go and growing up. These young women are richly painted, and each one comes to terms with her past and stands ready to face the future. The ending of the series is neatly wrapped up, and new readers and old fans will not be disappointed. This coming-of-age story has beautifully written passages so vivid that readers can almost taste the peaches and feel the Georgia sunshine.—Julianna M. Helt, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 9 Up—Six contemporary YA authors showcase their creative talents and good writing. M. T. Anderson's "The Projection" is a mind-blowing drama set in improvisational theater. The emotionally charged situation shifts to a complex illusion of what is real and what is an act. A staged relationship is played out and a mind game is replayed, unwound, and rewound in the present, past, and future. An Na's "Complication" is a disturbing story of a rape victim and single mother's scheme to target and extort money from her attacker's relative. Trying to redeem his brother's crime by showing tenderness and concern, the good brother strives toward resolution, but Fay has her own ideas and needs to be free. Beth Kephart's "The Longest Distance" addresses the deceased's best friend and teen suicide. The narrator is sad, confused, and desperate to answer the age-old question, "Why?" Other contributors include K. L. Going, Chris Lynch, and Jacqueline Woodson. This unique collection will challenge students' intellect and have them questioning their own decision-making skills. A fine balance is straddled between sophisticated prose and authentic teen voices, uninhibited and peppered with profanity.—Alison Follos, North Country School, Lake Placid, NY

Gr 5–8—In a fairy-tale kingdom, orphaned 15-year-old Lucinda toils for her uncle and his spiteful wife in their jewelry shop. During the opening chapters, the shop is visited by a mysterious woman wanting an enormous gem reset, the prince of the kingdom searching for a suitable gift for his betrothed, and a common street urchin who is an accomplished thief. These characters play significant roles in the breakneck adventure cum romance that ensues as the gem changes hands and Lucinda is almost hanged. Berry plays with elements of traditional folklore—the poor orphan deprived of her birthright, the desirable woman who flees the prince after a few bewitching dances, royals disguised as indigents, and greed run amok. Romantics and fantasy lovers will happily devour this debut novel.—Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Gr 6–9—Mama Inez and her dog live "in a house at the end of the world." Realizing that things are "out of tilt," they send out 10 invitations to the far corners of the Earth, asking the recipients to participate in the Serendipity Market—a gathering in which they each tell a story and bring a talisman so that the world's "spin" can be brought back into balance. Nine folks come, and the bulk of the book is made up of their stories. When the group has finished, the world is set right again, and the participants return to their homes, richer for the experiences they've shared. Blubaugh's first novel is a fantasy that interweaves the magical powers of Mama Inez with the stories of familiar folk- and fairy-tale characters. "The Colors of Lightning," the story of Slew Foot Sue and Pecos Bill; "Carter House," a version of the Scottish "Tam Lin"; and "Conversions," a typical Celtic tale of the love between a human and a merman, are kept basically intact. "The Lizard's Tale" reveals Cinderella's story according to the lizard who reluctantly becomes her coachman, and in "Lost," the elves explain why they helped the poor shoemaker and his wife. Other stories add surprising twists to traditional tales. While the beginning of the book is rather hard to follow, the tales themselves move at a good pace, and the protagonists are three-dimensional versions of their well-known counterparts. A good choice for collections in which fairy-tale retellings are popular.—Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, formerly at LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI

Gr 6–9—Jack Fletcher, 12, works as a rigging monkey aboard the Alexandria, while his father pilots the British vessel. Near the Japanese coast, the ship is attacked by a deadly band of ninja. Before he dies, Jack's father entrusts his son with a book of coded maps that others will kill to possess. Though Jack suffers a grave wound in the ensuing battle and is left for dead, a samurai named Masamoto saves the boy, eventually adopting him. Readers can't help but empathize with Jack through the months that follow as he learns the language and how to fight with a wooden bokken, struggles to master the intricate Japanese culture, and deals with bullies who consider him a gaijin, a barbaric outsider. He survives a fight with a ninja intent on killing him, and, at 15, takes part in a fierce martial arts competition that affects the honor of Masamoto and his school. With Samurai, Bradford has crafted a detailed story full of riveting elements: instant enemies, sworn friends, unfortunate misunderstandings, and ultimate forgiveness. He includes notes on sources for various quotes used throughout; though several are anachronistic, their spirit is essentially Zen. A fast-paced adventure and a fascinating look at 17^th-century Japan.—Bethany Isaacson, Wheaton Regional Library, Silver Spring, MD

Gr 8–10—Matt Gratton, 15, and his friends Sean and Coop challenge themselves with a summer goal to view a naked girl. Although a difficult aim for three nerdy guys, it is nothing compared to Matt's trying to impress Kelly, the girl of his dreams, by volunteering for the nearly impossible 100-yard butterfly at a local swim-team competition. To satisfy their goal, the boys dress up as females and try to sneak into the girls' locker room at the community center. The plan is foiled when Matt has a sudden, outlandish bowel movement. Another time, he sneaks into a country-club pool to practice and meets Ulf, a swim instructor who forces Matt to take his torturous class. Additional incidents stretch belief; others edge on disturbing. Sean and Coop try to peep at Kelly and her friend Valerie in a dressing room, and Coop slices the swim suit of the disliked major contender in the butterfly competition so it tears off in public and Matt ultimately wins. Vomiting and other raunchy episodes and comments throughout have mixed results. Nevertheless, the book holds interest, largely due to Matt's fumbling attempts, at last, at standing up for what's right, the well-portrayed twist that Valerie is the perfect match for him, and his grandfather's quirkiness. Teens looking for realistic guy humor will find amusement here, but a better choice is Steven Goldman's Two Parties, One Tux, and a Very Short Film About The Grapes of Wrath (Bloomsbury, 2008).—Diane P. Tuccillo, Fort Collins Regional Library District, CO

Gr 4–8—In an understated picture book for older readers, Cali ponders the essence and logic of war from the viewpoint of a lone soldier, isolated from his fellow troops, sitting in his foxhole within sight of his enemy. "Except for hunger, the enemy and I have nothing in common. He is a wild beast. He does not know mercy. I know this because I read it in my manual. It says that we must kill him before he kills us." The man ponders the pointlessness of war, his hesitancy to let down his guard, his fear of being alone. He is tired of sitting in a hole. He waits until the moon is at its smallest, puts on a disguise, and creeps toward the enemy's foxhole. What he finds in there (family photos and a manual like his own) surprises him. What's more, he realizes that he and the enemy, sharing similar thoughts, have traded spaces. He wishes the enemy would do something to end the war, and knows that he must end it himself. Set against stark white backgrounds, black-line cartoon characters, reminiscent of Jules Feiffer's work, are dressed in khaki green. Other items are drawn in the manner of a child's doodles. Tiny touches of red color the soldiers' manuals and people and animals that have been killed. Several photos, pages from an old war manual, and bits of torn paper folded at the edges to represent foxholes, have been added in a few places. Poignant, thought-provoking, and powerful in its frankness and simplicity, this short piece will prompt discussion on war and other means of resolving conflict.—Susan Scheps, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH

Gr 10 Up—This story picks up where Untamed (St. Martin's, 2008) ends. Priestess Zoey and her friends must hide in the tunnels cozied and cleaned up by Aphrodite and the now-stable Red Fledglings while Darius ensures that Stevie Rae heals from the arrow wound in her chest. With the increasingly dark Neferet and immortal, fallen Kalona ruling the House of Night, Zoey deems that their vampyre finishing school is unsafe for their return, yet she cannot escape Kalona when he invades her dream, claiming her as his own. The close proximity of the tunnels presents the perfect opportunity for Zoey and Erik to reconcile. Yet once again, love gets complicated when Heath returns and Erik's jealousy drives Zoey aboveground where—in the light of day amid a raging ice storm—one of Kalona's Raven Mockers nearly kills her as she saves Heath from its attack. Forced to heal under the close proximity of adult vampyres, Zoey returns to the House of Night with a small group of her most useful and necessary friends. With their help, the prophetic poems of Red Fledgling, Kramisha, and a few unexpected characters, Zoey must find a way to expel Kalona and Neferet from the House of Night. The returning cast of characters, combined with the story's multilayered twists and turns, will not disappoint fans of the series.—Adrienne L. Strock, Maricopa County Library District, AZ

Gr 9 Up—Piers, 17, escapes his overbearing parents and clinging girlfriend, Gill, by taking a job running a toll bridge on a rural British estate. His solitude is shattered by the sudden intrusion of enigmatic Adam, who barges into the isolated tollhouse and refuses to leave. Piers's friend Tess, the estate manager's daughter, is instantly smitten with Adam, and the three begin a complex relationship rife with sexual and emotional tension and bent on self-discovery. Chambers writes eloquent dialogue, his flawless character development propelling this provocative story forward as the trio's lives swerve out of control. Frank sexual conversation and an explicit sex scene between Tess and Adam characterize the teens' authentically reckless path. When the estate is put up for sale, the three are charged with painting the tollhouse, and Tess and Adam celebrate its completion and surprise Piers (whom they call Jan, after Janus, a reference to the two-faced god of bridges) by inviting Gill to a party, which turns out badly. Spurned by Piers, she escapes to the river where she encounters Adam, mistakes his friendliness for an attack, and fights back, leaving him badly injured and unconscious. In a shattering climax, Adam's true identity and past are revealed. This grippingly multilayered, sophisticated drama can be enjoyed alone or read as part of Chambers's "The Dance Sequence" series (Abrams).—Joyce Adams Burner, formerly at Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 4–7—It's 1884, and Hattie Belle Basket lives in Kingston-on-the-Hudson with her grandmother. Hortensia Greymoor's sinking financial status is brought into sharp focus when Hattie intercepts a delinquent tax notice that she hides from her grandmother. Her grandfather had been in an insane asylum since before she was born, and died recently. When Hattie finds his encoded diary, she is sure that cracking the code can save Grandmother's house. At the same time, Hattie has been sent to "common" school where she tries to impress her fellow students by concocting a fairy-tale existence for herself in the house on the hill. Hattie appeared in two earlier books, and her adventures have moved from rip-roaring river rafting to psychological drama. Hattie is not always likable, but she is strong, imaginative, and determined. More than a mystery or a piece of historical fiction, this story also deals with honesty, friendship, and family relations.—Kathryn Kosiorek, formerly at Cuyahoga County Public Library, Brooklyn, OH

Gr 7 Up—Maggie Quinn has psychic ability and a history of fighting demons and other evil manifestations, as proven in Hell Week (2008) and Prom Dates from Hell (2007, both Delacorte). She and her D&D-loving friend Lisa, who is a practitioner of spells and magic, are on a spring-break trip to south Texas when their jeep slams into a slaughtered cow on the highway. Stranded in a small town while the vehicle is being repaired, they meet many of the locals, some of whom are convinced that el chupacabra, a legendary evil creature, has been released from the underground and is killing their livestock. Doña Isabel, the wealthy matriarch of the area, seems to know something, but isn't talking; her handsome grandson, Zeke, does not believe in "Ol' Chupy," but he is forced to face the truth when humans as well as cattle are attacked by the demon creature. Maggie and Lisa are highly likable and genuine college freshmen, and when they spring into action against the terrifying creature, the adventure really takes off. The background information on the evil being is logical and believable, and the two belief systems of Catholicism and Hispanic magical culture sustain a respectful coexistence. This story flows quickly with thrills, chills, and a first-rate mystery.—Jake Pettit, Thompson Valley High School, Loveland, CO

Gr 5–7—When Blue Gaspard's mother hires on at an isolated Wyoming ranch bordering Native lands, the place looks amazingly like the girl's fantasy home. The colored lights Blue has always seen around people and objects are much stronger, and she finds that her own lights, when focused, have the power to ease pain and induce healing in people and animals. Despite the perfect fit, she's sure her mom will have the itch to move on soon, something she's done routinely since Blue's dad left them years before. Meanwhile, Blue tends to orphaned calves, connects emotionally with a Native boy named Shawn, and enacts a plan to locate her father. Her artistic bent, mystical power, and internal musings are interspersed with outdoor action and ranch scenes. While a number of issues are piled on, from alcoholism to abandonment and Native rights to the first stirrings of romance, Blue's personality is well developed and offsets some of the too easily resolved problems that are introduced. This novel will feed the imaginations of kids who have never made it out of the city or suburbs and will have regional appeal in the rural West.—Faith Brautigam, Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin, IL

Gr 5–8—In their third collection for younger readers, Datlow and Windling have solicited original pieces from 15 well-known authors; the focus this time is on the bad guys of the fairy-tale world. Some tell a traditional tale from the villain's point of view, such as Nina Kiriki Hoffman's "Rags and Riches," a version of "The Goose Girl." Others demonstrate that change in perspective puts a whole different slant on fairy tales, as in Garth Nix's Rapunzel-based "An Unwelcome Guest" and Jane Yolen's "Troll," a revisionist look at "Three Billy Goats Gruff." Several poems are included as well; Neil Gaiman's "Observing the Formalities" is priceless and wouldn't be out of place in the New Yorker. Some stories are more successful than others, but almost all are both highly readable and thought-provoking. Many are funny, several are quite scary or creepy, and the final story, Kelly Link's "The Cinderella Game," is subtly yet powerfully chilling. A solid choice, particularly where sophisticated fractured fairy tales are popular.—Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 8 Up—It's the early 1900s and 16-year-old Essie Rosenfield works tirelessly at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in Manhattan, but her meager wages are hardly her biggest problem. After she befriends the mysterious new girl, she learns that Harriet is a runaway and an heiress. Uncertain about revealing the girl's secret and thus losing a friend, Essie finds herself torn between what she believes is wrong and what she can't accept—the truth of her own sister's disappearance. When a devastating fire ravages the factory, Essie is too late in realizing that money isn't as important as family and friends. The chapters flip from Essie's past recollections with her sister to her present friendship with Harriet. Once the rhythm is understood, this unusual pacing adds depth and intrigue as the plot unfolds. There are many layers to this story, which will appeal to a variety of interests and age levels.—Kimberly Monaghan, formerly at Vernon Area Public Library, IL

Gr 7–9—In this humorous novel, weight and friendship issues trouble plus-sized Celeste, 13, until she learns better eating habits and starts to stand up for herself. First she's forced to wear a hideous bridesmaid dress. Then her friend Sandra dumps her for Lively, a skinny popular girl. Worst of all, Celeste's aunt enters her in the HuskyPeach modeling competition; Celeste competes to please her mother, but makes plans to sabotage her chances of winning because she's embarrassed by the whole idea. The competition, however, actually boosts her confidence and helps her come to terms with her weight, her eating habits, and her feelings about Sandra's defection. The wry, funny tone makes this book a pleasurable read, and teens of all body types will enjoy Celeste's original voice. Those dealing with bullying and teasing will empathize with her and cheer her on. Other novels about overweight teens include Susan Vaught's Big Fat Manifesto and Simmone Howell's Everything Beautiful (both Bloomsbury, 2008), but this one is more lighthearted and for a slightly younger audience.—Miranda Doyle, San Francisco Public Library

Gr 3–6—Joshua Tree Hewitt loves to talk, and that leads to trouble at school and home. After getting angry at his mother, he storms outside to discover a leopard frog that has three back legs. How can the fifth grader resist taking it to school? His teacher and class are intrigued by Josh's discovery, and they research more information about amphibians. Sadly after all the excitement, the frog dies, which leaves Josh extremely upset. His relationship with his parents, grandparents, sister, and classmates grows stronger through this ordeal, and solving the mystery of why Gorfman had three back legs helps Josh deal with his grief. Plot development is quick, and children will relate to the protagonist and his classmates, as they act like typical fifth graders.—Rachel Artley, Watertown Elementary School, TN

Gr 7–9—In this sequel to Corydon & the Fall of Atlantis (Knopf, 2007), Corydon Panfoot is living in the desert with Azil, Bin Khamal, and Sikandar. The friends drift from place to place, herding goats and camels that they have stolen and, occasionally, raiding for more. One major theft drives the boys to the city of Tashkurgan. There Sikandar must choose the fairest among three goddesses, two of whom destroy the city when they aren't selected. Corydon vows that he will somehow destroy the callous Olympians and is guided by a sphinx to the city of Troy. He finds the city already besieged but is soon reunited with many of his monster friends, including the Gorgons Sthenno and Euryale; the Minotaur; and Lamia, the Snake-Girl. Despite their many skills and the interventions of allies ranging from Amazons to a host of small gods, the Trojan forces are no match for Akhilleus, Odysseus, and the Olympian gods that support them. Corydon and the Minotaur must attempt one last desperate ploy in order to allow the other monsters time to lead the remnants of Troy to safety. Readers familiar with Homer will recognize many of the events here, albeit in a different format, and the language is stunning. Readers of the first books in this series will definitely want this one, and even those who haven't read them will be able to enjoy this volume.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 6–10—During the Civil War, Rosemary Elizabeth Lipking, 15, moves to the Shaker community located in Pleasant Hill, KY, with her mother, brother, and sister because of an abusive father. The Shakers welcome her with open arms, and at first she feels safe from her Pa and the war. Before long, though, she realizes that her mother has abandoned them. She is separated from her siblings and is now called Sister Bess. Women have to adhere to a specific regimen, which includes wearing spotless white garments, not mixing foods together, sleeping with arms crossed like an angel, attending several worships a day, and not talking to the opposite sex. Rosemary vows to be perfect so she will be allowed to stay, but no matter how hard she tries, she finds herself breaking the rules. When she realizes that not everything is as perfect as it appears, she is determined to find her own path and maybe even leave once the war is over. Durrant has created a strong, determined, and likable character to tell of the hardships of Shaker life. Unfortunately, the book ends abruptly, and readers are left wondering what happens to Rosemary. Still, the story is interesting, and the theme of finding oneself will resonate with many teens.—Shannon Seglin, Patrick Henry Library, Vienna, VA

Gr 7 Up—In quiet, rural Tillmon County, in Appalachia, the most exciting events are the occasional barroom brawl or DUI arrest. So when a multimillion-dollar home near the lake burns to the ground due to arson, it's a major happening. This cleverly plotted and well-crafted story of abuse and vengeance is told in pieces from the varying perspectives of a half-dozen teens, and Ehrenberg uses intertwining chapters to explore their motives and desires. Particularly compelling are the voices of Rob, a gay teen transplanted from Manhattan, and Albert, a developmentally challenged 16-year-old whose twin is befriended by a troubled young man intent on purging the community of anything "unnatural." The focus ultimately is not so much on the crime itself as it is on young men and women discovering themselves and deciding when to take a stand. The vividly drawn setting, almost a character in itself, embraces an important message all readers need to hear.—Melissa Moore, Union University Library, Jackson, TN

Gr 6–10—Parker Stanhope only wants one thing—to be on her school's varsity soccer team with all of her friends. What she actually gets is another year on junior varsity surrounded by freshmen and the brush-off from her so-called friends. In response to this depressing series of events, Parker comes up with a foolproof plan to get back on the team that involves her older brother's friend, an annual carnival, $300, and a kiss that the whole school will see. Along the way she meets Tristan, her cuter than cute neighbor, who, after hearing her desperate situation, offers to give her kissing lessons to make that big final kiss look and seem totally believable. As you'd expect, these "lessons" turn into much more than just a teaching situation. Unfortunately, this story—girl ends up liking the guy she least expected to with some madcap adventures along the way—has been told before. Parker's voice doesn't come across as real; she sounds more like how adults think teenagers would talk instead of how they actually do. For a better "I can't believe I'm falling for this guy!" book, suggest Robin Benway's Audrey, Wait! (Penguin, 2008). An additional purchase for libraries with a well-used chick-lit section.—Traci Glass, Eugene Public Library, OR

Gr 5–9—After the end of a long war, a young soldier travels to the capital to find his only remaining relatives and a job. Galen obtains work as a palace gardener, where he meets the king's oldest daughter and soon learns of the mystery surrounding Rose and her 11 younger sisters: in spite of being watched every night, they somehow wear out pair after pair of dancing slippers. Readers soon learn that the siblings are paying off their mother's debt to the evil King Under Stone by dancing every night with his sons. Several princes have failed to unravel the mystery. Can Galen, driven by his love for Rose, discover the truth and save the princesses? While readers may be familiar with the fairy tale that's the basis for this story, George creates suspense by showing the princesses' suffering and Galen's determination to help his beloved. He is a sympathetic hero, and his feelings about war and talent for knitting help bring him to life. Rose and her florally named sisters are distinguished by character traits and move beyond stock figures as well. Fans of fairy-tale retellings like Robin McKinley's Beauty (1978) or Gail Carson Levine's Ella Enchanted (1979, both HarperCollins) will enjoy this story for its magic, humor, and touch of romance.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

Gr 9 Up—On her own and struggling to make ends meet, 18-year-old Eunice "Bug" Smoot has one cherished possession: the 1958 Cadillac Biarritz left to her by her grandfather. When she discovers that he offered not only his soul as collateral for the car, but also hers and that, somehow, his spirit has managed to evade repossession, she realizes she is in grave danger. With the aid of a cute boy who happens to be an aspiring agent of the International Supernatural Immigration Service; his mother, a spiritual advisor and witch; and an ancient lawyer specializing in conflicts between the earthly and spirit realms, Bug battles an evil djinn for her soul. Set in the Spanish-speaking neighborhoods of El Paso, Soul distinguishes itself from other recent supernatural farces such as Jonathan Bernstein's Hottie (Penguin/Razorbill, 2009) by giving voice to ethnic and economic minority characters. Indeed, Bug's first-person narration is feisty and knowing in the ways of class and prejudice ("Growing up half Tejana and half-African American," Bug claims, "I learned real quick that folks were going to put you down because of the color you were, no matter what color they were"). However, the increasingly dramatic confrontations and competitions pitting Bug and company against the djinn and the recurring discovery that yet another El Paso citizen is, in actuality, a demon or is demon-possessed threaten to derail the willing suspension of disbelief that novels like these demand.—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 8 Up—Liam Geller's good looks and fashionista genes come from his mother, a former model who introduced him to the glamour of the runway when he was just a toddler. Popular with his fast-lane friends, Liam's live-to-party attitude ires his cold, controlling father, so it isn't surprising when yet another a streak of bad behavior gets him kicked out of the house. Angering his father even further, Liam seeks refuge with "Aunt Pete," his cross-dressing, deejay uncle who lives in an upstate New York trailer park. The setting is ready-made for the cast of quirky characters who make up Pete's glam-rock '70s band: Eddie, a boutique owner; Orlando, Pete's boyfriend (and Liam's new English teacher); and Dino, a local cop. The Gucci-clad teen awkwardly tries to adapt to his new surroundings, missing cues from Darleen, the arty girl next door, about what it means to be popular in Pineville. Liam's misadventures unfold alongside incidental memories (in italics) that subtly reveal the relationships between father and son and mother and son as they developed over the years. Liam is a multifaceted and resilient character who ultimately learns how to be comfortable in his own skin with the help of his new, makeshift family. Going's knack for defying stereotypes and creating memorable characters will not disappoint fans of Fat Kid Rules the World (Putnam, 2003) and Saint Iggy (Harcourt, 2006).—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 5–7—Twelve-year-old Josh LeBlanc's father has come to the end of a baseball career that never made it to the majors. Josh is also a talented player, and the family's dreams of glory settle on him. His angry, controlling father pulls him off the middle school team to have him try out for a traveling youth team sponsored by a suspicious character named Rocky Valentine, who is also Mr. LeBlanc's new employer. While the competition is fierce, Josh eventually makes the team, but his doubts about Rocky Valentine continue to grow. With the help of a girl he likes, aspiring journalist Jaden Neidermeyer, Josh uncovers evidence that Rocky is dealing in illegal steroids. It appears that Jaden's father, a doctor, is supplying Rocky with the drugs, but eventually everything is straightened out. Rocky is apprehended, Dr. Neidermeyer is cleared, and, in a deus ex machina, a Nike Youth Baseball representative shows up out of the blue and offers to sponsor Josh's team, to put his dad on the payroll, and to sign Josh up to appear in Nike ads. While the resolution might strike even less-sophisticated readers as wildly implausible, issues of peer and family pressure are well handled, and the short, punchy chapters and crisp dialogue are likely to hold the attention of young baseball fans.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT

Gr 4–6—Lucy Desberg, 12, spends most of her free time at her family's pharmacy. It was once a popular hangout for fountain treats in their small Connecticut town, but the emergence of a large chain store has put the pharmacy in danger of foreclosure. Lucy overhears her practical grandmother and somewhat disengaged, eco-activist mom arguing about what to do, and she is determined to come up with a solution. When the high school's Homecoming queen rushes in sporting a hair disaster on the day of the big dance, Lucy bravely suggests how to fix the problem. A star is born when the products she suggests work, word spreads of Lucy's talents, and more and more young women seek her advice. Meanwhile, she and her older sister apply for a grant to be awarded by the mayor to locally owned businesses that are "going green." Greenwald has created a smart, spunky heroine with ingenuity and budding femininity. A natural beauty or business tip introduces each chapter. These helpful hints are age appropriate and environmentally current. Readers will enjoy the realistic portrayal of middle school friendships, crushes, and coming-of-age beauty concerns.—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 7–10—Romantic and heartbreakingly real, this novel follows 15-year-old Belly through the most important summer of her life. Every year, her family shares a beach house with Belly's mother's best friend, Susannah, and her two sons. Belly has always had a crush on Conrad, the older boy, but he has always treated her like an annoying younger sister. This summer, everything changes. The beautifully written novel captures Belly's realization that she is changing into an attractive young woman with a growing power over the boys in her life. They include Cam, the "nice" boy she should fall for but doesn't, and Jeremiah, Susannah's younger son. Only Conrad is seemingly immune to Belly's charms. Meanwhile, Susannah and her family are dealing with problems that Belly does not fully comprehend. Flashbacks to previous summers show her struggles to make Conrad and Jeremiah notice and include her, and how hurt she was when they didn't. The novel perfectly blends romance, family drama, and a coming-of-age tale, one that is substantially deeper than most, but it will still satisfy those hoping for a soapy story of summer love. Belly's discovery that you can't always choose who you love will appeal to readers, as will the author's expert evocation of a magical time when absolutely anything could happen.—Miranda Doyle, San Francisco Unified School District

Gr 10 Up—Eleventh-grader Louise has her future all planned. After high school, she and her friend Sienna will move to New York, attend art school, and start a wildly successful fashion business. Then, at their father's 40th birthday party, Louise's younger brother walks in on their dad and Sienna's mother engaging in oral sex. In a rapid succession of events, Louise's parents split, Sienna distances herself from Louise, and Louise finds herself becoming a social outcast. Her only consolations are her set design work for the stagecraft club and her new friendship with Russell, a coworker. However, Louise's social life continues on a downward spiral as her mother dates and then becomes pregnant by Louise's algebra teacher, Russell reveals that he is gay, and she finds herself unsuccessfully trying to keep a devastating secret from Sienna. Somehow it all works out in the end, with Louise looking to the future after high school, remaining friends with Russell, and even coming to a reconciliation with Sienna. This is Harding's first YA novel and at times Louise's narration sounds more like that of an adult woman than a 17-year-old. There are some very funny moments, and the teen's mortification at her middle-aged mother's pregnancy rings true. However, the melodramatic events and humorous narration don't always blend well, and a number of the characters, including Louise's obnoxious brother and Sienna's vapid popular friends, are total stereotypes.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 6–9—Fifteen-year-old friends Dave, Victor, and Curtis are looking forward to a long summer of freedom. Much to their dismay, their fathers require them to get jobs. In an effort to salvage their vacation, the boys devise a plan: they will tell their dads that they are working and then figure out a get-rich-quick scheme. If all goes accordingly, they will earn money with little effort and have a relaxing time all to themselves. They dub their plan Project Sweet Life. What results is a hilarious story filled with mishaps, close calls, and outrageous adventures. Peppered with Dave's mom's strange culinary creations (fish stick stew, spaghetti meatloaf, canned-tuna tacos, anyone?), the plot is a bit far-fetched; however, it will keep readers laughing and engaged. The novel will be especially appealing to middle school boys, who will wish they could start their own Project Sweet Life.—Sarah K. Allen, Thetford Academy, VT

Gr 5–8—Centuries ago, seven keys were given to the seven sons of King Agamon of Balabad to protect the country's treasures from foreign invaders. The young men were then sent to seven different places around the world, and only when all of the keys came together again could the treasure be found. Now, 500 years later, Oliver Finch, a New York City kid, is stuck living in Balabad because his father is a reporter and his mother is an art historian. He and his friend Zee spend most of their time visiting Mr. Haji, a carpet salesman who tells funny stories. Then, Balabad's sacred carpet is stolen, the culture minister disappears, and Zee overhears his father talking about a secret brotherhood. When Mr. Haji disappears, Oliver and Zee try to find him and are joined in their search by a girl named Alamai, who knows the ins and outs of the city and where and how to get information. In the process, they almost become the villain's next victims. Haven has created an exciting mystery set in a fictional Middle Eastern country with an intriguing history and a vibrant culture. The story is woven together like an intricate carpet. It's disjointed at times, moving around the world as the thieves locate the current owners of the keys, but all of the plot threads come together for the action-packed climax.—Samantha Larsen Hastings, West Jordan Public Library, UT

Gr 8 Up—Facing time in foster care after her ex-hippie parents are arrested for growing and selling marijuana, 16-year-old Ellie assists the FBI by infiltrating Mother Earth Defenders, a radical environmental group, to gather evidence for eventual prosecution. She's accepted into the ranks after gluing the doors of a federal building shut, and quickly becomes involved with other missions, including firebombing a Hummer dealership. Her task is complicated by her growing crush on Coyote, one of the leaders of the radicals. After an unsuccessful mission at a logging site, the deadly side of MED comes out, and Ellie must balance her feigned fanaticism with her desire not to harm anyone. Most readers will have a hard time suspending disbelief long enough to go along with Henry's premise that the FBI could legally recruit a minor as an agent. Still, Ellie is a well-developed character with a crafty habit that reinforces the "reduce, recycle, reuse" message without becoming preachy. Her infatuation with Coyote makes her seem younger than 16, and Coyote's casual dismissal of her betrayal seems at odds with his passionate personality. Educators and environmentalists will appreciate the similarities between Ellie's adventures and the exploits of Julia Butterfly Hill, as it will allow them to engage in a discussion about endangered species, corporate responsibility, and logging. Teens interested in environmental concerns may find this appealing.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

Gr 7–9—How can Lisi win the sought-after first prize at the annual spring carnival and—most importantly—score a kiss from her crush, Brett? The answer is a kissing booth, of course. Only Lisi's best friend since second grade, Mo, knows that the girl would love for Brett to change her "NBK" (never been kissed) status, but since Mo returned from spring break with a hip new look, she has inexplicably avoided her old pal. This pits Lisi and her other two friends, outlandishly flirtatious Bella and mellow, wannabe-filmmaker Johnny, against Mo and her new clique, the "fly girls" (Northside High's answer to cheerleaders). Readers may find themselves drawn into this fast-paced tale, but the predictable plot and an over-the-top confession scene at the end will most likely disappoint. Sophomoric language interspersed with IM/text language and acronyms yield tedious results. The underdeveloped characters fall into one of two categories: annoying and unlikable, or one-dimensional, and may leave readers wondering about their motivations.—Tara Kehoe, Plainsboro Public Library, NJ

Gr 8 Up—Willow Randall, 17, hides a dark secret from the only family member she has left, her older brother. The survivor of a terrible car accident that killed their parents, she is now in the care of David and his wife. Trapped by the guilt she feels because she was behind the wheel, she doesn't want her brother to find out that she is a cutter. Willow depends on her blades to release the anguish and isolation she feels both at home and at school. David doesn't seem to want to talk about what happened, and, wherever she goes, she feels as if students are whispering about Willow the parent killer. Living a shadowy existence, she is astonished at the turn her world takes when a boy she meets at the library takes the time to understand her agony. In this novel that is in part a love story, Hoban takes readers on an intense journey that allows them to see a cutter's painful reality.—Caryl Soriano, New York Public Library

Gr 5–8—In this British import, Mini, 12, offers an unfiltered take on her family as they navigate some bumpy psychological terrain. She adores her older sister, Kate, who still indulges Mini's love of a made-up game in which they take imaginary trips. Mini is a likable, forthright narrator who admits that most of her classmates find her obsession with geography odd. She's thrilled to make friends with a new student, Satch, and their bond is further strengthened because both have an embarrassing secret: he works to conceal his stutter and Mini's given name makes her cringe. She confides that the tension at home is becoming unbearable due to Kate's newly defiant behavior (she gets a tattoo, misses her curfew, etc.), and Satch reassures Mini that his family life is equally stormy. When Kate runs away, Satch helps Mini figure out how to find her and bring her home. Hints sprinkled through the story may tip readers off that Kate's troubles involve her being an adoptee (she's upset that news of her birth mother's death has been withheld from her), but Hollyer keeps the astute Mini unaware of this fact longer than is believable. Only Mini and Satch are fully drawn characters. However, the author is successful at building dramatic tension and exploring the trauma and drama of secrets and lies that accompany some adoptions. Readers interested in these issues and those seeking books about the angst of establishing independence from family will find a satisfying story here.—Deborah Vose, Highlands Elementary School, Braintree, MA

Gr 8 Up—Celeste was born into Unity, an isolated polygamist sect. Faith, purity, and obedience are the strictures that her family and community live by. Now 15, the age at which she must marry, Celeste experiences thoughts and feelings at odds with her apparently safe and well-ordered world. She is attracted to a boy her own age, but she knows that the Prophet assigns girls to older men. Her mother's life as a fifth wife is sad and limited, and the woman almost dies during a difficult pregnancy with her eighth child. The story of Celeste's intellectual and emotional awakening is told through the eyes of three teens: Celeste herself; her younger and more faithful sister Nanette; and Taviana, a secular street girl who is taken in by the cult and then kicked out. Many have left cult life, but for Celeste the struggle to discover her true self is huge and the outcome is less certain. How can she choose between her beloved family and the outside world with all its dangers, temptations, and opportunities? The characters, from the multilayered Celeste to the elders of the cult and the confused boys whom Celeste encounters, are all believable individuals engaged in their own struggles. The attractions and rewards of life within a well-ordered hierarchical system are portrayed, as are the inevitable abuses of power and the destruction of the human spirit when choice is not an option. Celeste's struggle is long and hard, and her ultimate choices are realistic as well as satisfying. This novel gives depth and nuance to an experience that is portrayed without subtlety in the popular press.—Carolyn Lehman, Humboldt State University, Arcata, CA

Gr 9 Up—Best friends Derek and Lucas spend the summer between their sophomore and junior years working and hanging out with their friends and girlfriends. There's a bit of drinking and experimenting with pot, but overall they're good kids. Derek is smart, athletic, and good-looking, but he's also a tormented soul. His mom died when he was in elementary school and his dad recently remarried. His stepmother seems to be controlling the family and suggests that Derek be a contestant on Loserville, a TV show aimed at exposing "troubled young men." Why Derek agrees to take part is never quite clear, but he does, and his experiences on the show may be responsible for the tragic ending. This book offers a revealing look at the ethics of reality TV: how circumstantial video can skew the truth and how a callous disregard for the truth debases human beings. It will make readers reconsider this cultural phenomenon and whether a few moments of schadenfreude are worth ruining someone's life.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA

Gr 8–10—Tired of bouncing from foster family to foster family, Kate, 14, is trying to make it in her new placement in Bed-Sty, Brooklyn. She's finally getting good grades and has a great friend in good-girl Felicia. When Felicia goes away for the summer, fly-girl Naleejah befriends Kate, winning her over by giving her a makeover and teaching her how to grab the attention of her longtime crush. But when Kate lies and goes to a house party on Long Island, she risks her newfound stability. Characterizations are strong, and voices realistic. There are some sexual situations and drug use, but Kate seems to have her head on straight. Through her, Jordan sends a message about doing the right thing, which sometimes seems a bit preachy. The outcome of Kate's story is positive, and those looking for soft street-lit titles will find the book appealing.—Emily Anne Valente, New York Public Library

Gr 8 Up—Eleventh-grader Nina struggles with her Pakistani-Muslim identity and all that it entails. Her parents are strict and won't allow her to date. She also struggles with an abundance of dark facial and body hair, especially the stripe of hair down her back. Because she is the lone Asian student at her small high school in upstate New York, she feels isolated. Worse, her "supernerd" sister, Sonia, has left high academic expectations in her wake. When the boy she has a crush on shows an interest in her, Nina is both surprised and uncertain of what to do. She struggles with the values of her parents and her own feelings about right and wrong. She comes to a conclusion that leaves the story both satisfyingly unresolved and true to Nina's character. The author is nonjudgmental about Nina's decisions that are in conflict with her parents' beliefs, such as experimenting with alcohol, but through Sonia is also able to portray a character who is more comfortable abstaining. There are a lot of different plot elements, and the story is really more about Nina's development than about any single issue (such as her hirsuteness, as the title suggests). This is a solid choice for libraries in which Randa Abdel-Fattah's Does My Head Look Big in This? (2007) and Ten Things I Hate About Me (2009, both Scholastic) are popular.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 5–8—In this third book in the series, Gussie, a spitfire of a heroine, is recovering from a heart and lung transplant. She is living in London to be close to the hospital and her father but ever yearning for her home by the beach in Cornwall. She speaks of her passions: photography, birding, cats, and playing with words. She laments her parents' divorce and plots to bring them back together. Characters are developed through her eyes, dropping clues to the adults' behavior while leaving some level of mystery, especially for younger readers. The writing is rather sophisticated, digressing at times, as when the 12-year-old recognizes a new "foot" idiom to add to her list, such as using "my foot" as a way to express disbelief. Brave yet vulnerable, mature and still naive, Gussy will win the hearts of readers, leaving them begging for one more installment.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 3–5—Sixth-grader Charlotte Hayes, upset by her family's neglect of their Saint Bernard, takes care of him even though she isn't much of a dog person. Her father, who likes bargains and the breed's looks, gets the pup cheap from a coworker and is attentive at first, as is her older sister. Her mother, never enthusiastic about a pet that will eventually weigh 200 pounds, doesn't want him in the house because he drools. Charlotte knows that she needs to find a better home for Beauregard, one where he isn't kept outside all the time with a doghouse that is too small and a water dish that only she fills. With help from two friends as well as from an elderly woman, Charlotte succeeds—and then learns that maybe she is a dog person after all. Wise beyond her years, the protagonist is extremely concerned about what is right. This is a sweet, gentle story for larger collections.—Elizabeth Swistock, Jefferson Madison Regional Library, Charlottesville, VA

Gr 4–8—Greg Heffley's crazy antics continue in this latest installment in the series. Kinney portrays humorous and touching family dynamics between the boy and his competitive father, whom he seems to disappoint numerous times. The fast-paced narrative successfully balances Greg's home and school life, revealing an egocentric yet lovable character. As in the previous books, cartoons and journal entries blend seamlessly to convey Greg's middle school angst. His uncanny ability to fall into amusing predicaments will win even more converts to this popular series. His witty voice coupled with memorable characterization will have this offering flying off the shelves.—Meg Smith, Cumberland County Public Library, Fayetteville, NC

Gr 6–10—This novel is based on the life of a woman who, at the age of 21, disguised herself as a man and enlisted in the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment of the Continental army. The story begins in the last months of the war with Deborah grievously ill and the secret of her gender discovered by a military doctor. Instead of exposing her deception, he arranges for her private care and insists that she write down her story. What follows is her accounting of her life: a difficult childhood, why she enlisted, how she maintained her disguise while surrounded by male soldiers, what battles she fought in, and the wounds she received. Encouraged by the doctor who saved her life, Deborah reveals her secret to a general and receives an honorable discharge. What is known and documented about Sampson's life is seamlessly incorporated into the novel; Klass has thoughtfully imagined the missing details to create a compelling story. She does not dwell on the brutality of war, but focuses on the protagonist's character, the danger of her deception, and the trials of maintaining her disguise. There is a sad, thwarted romance and a few comic moments when an amorous young woman sets her sights on the disguised soldier. The writing is clear and concise, and Deborah's voice rings with authenticity. An excellent choice for fans of historical fiction, fictionalized biographies, and stories about brave women.—Caroline Tesauro, Radford Public Library, VA

Gr 8–10—Ellisheva "Ellie" Gold is an Orthodox Jewish teen growing up in Toronto. When she falls for daring, sexy, non-Jewish Lindsay, she begins a struggle with her own homosexuality, worrying that she will be seen as an abomination by her family and community. First denying her urges and then giving in to them, she ultimately realizes that Lindsay is not a good match for her, but that a nice Jewish girl would be just right. Ellie learns that both love and God are like gravity, forces that she can believe in without seeing them. Much of the story concerns her lustful feelings toward Lindsay, and there are some sexual scenes. Her decision to dump Lindsay but embrace her lesbian identity is abrupt after all the angst of the earlier chapters. It makes for a happy ending, but one that is not completely believable. Ellie's struggle with Judaism is complicated by her sister Neshama's disgust with patriarchal traditions and by her nonobservant grandmother's puzzlement with her granddaughter's lifestyle. With no sympathetic representative, traditional Judaism itself comes off as something of a villain, redeemed only when Ellie begins to adapt it to her own needs. A bit slow in plot, a bit conflicted in its portrayal of Judaism, and a bit titillating in its descriptions of Ellie's growing sexual awareness, this novel is a mixed bag. It may offend some readers and be embraced by others, and would certainly make for an interesting discussion.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

Gr 4–6—One evening, a young cockroach wakes up to find that he's been transformed into a miniature human (complete with boxer shorts). When his roach community is threatened with extermination by their host family, Clarence journeys beyond the kitchen to find 10-year-old Mimi Gilmartin and see if her environmentalist views mean she'll help him. But when even her attempts fail, it's only Clarence's new ability to read and write that can save his community from extermination. Clarence's confusion at his transformation and his family's reaction to his ugly human appearance and limited climbing and sensing abilities add humor to the serious plot, as do the illustrations, which spotlight the action. There's a serious message here about environmentalism and the power of words, and the action and suspense make this a good read-aloud or classroom-discussion choice. Like Mary James's Shoebag (Scholastic, 1996), also a tale of cockroach transformation, this is a story about friendship and seeing beyond appearances, but Loizeaux's tiny human has a unique perspective that may bring new understanding about the importance of all species, even one as unpopular as Clarence's.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

Gr 5–8—After his mother's death, Prince Sigismund, 14, is sequestered in a remote castle for his own protection. He dreams of knights-errant and quests, but knows that as the only heir to the kingdom, it's unlikely that he can pursue them. However, he soon learns that magic is real—and is a threat to his life and his kingdom. The legend of a princess who's been sleeping for 100 years is true, and Sigismund may be the one who can break the spell. With help from his magical paladin teacher, Balisan, Sigismund develops his own fighting and magical skills while dealing with palace intrigues and threats from a powerful faie sorceress, the Margravine zu Malvolin. While she is truly malevolent, Sigismund finds a group of magical allies, including the faie who had cast the spell, and a silent girl he names Rue. A daring quest of his own brings all of Sigismund's skills into play as he confronts danger and magic to find love and save his kingdom. Lowe brings the fairy tale to life, adding both complexity and a believable hero, as well as an Aurora who's more than just a "sleeping beauty." This is a fun retelling with much to offer readers.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

Gr 8 Up—When Elizabeth goes missing, it is assumed that she has run away. In actuality, she has awakened in another girl's life. She's still in Fawlt Line, but the streets are different, her parents are dead, she has a new fiancé and friends, and she's not Elizabeth—she's Sarah, and she's engaged to a man she's never seen before. She struggles to remember what happened, relying on her faith to help her understand as she begins to wonder if she is just going crazy, as Sarah's friends and family believe. Meanwhile, Elizabeth's best friend, Jeff, is accused of attacking and attempting to kill her when "her" body is found and "Elizabeth" lies in the hospital in a coma. His uncle, Malcolm, defends Jeff and starts looking into a theory that Elizabeth may have fallen through a time fault, a theory that might have merit based on several other cases that seem to fit the pattern. As he looks further into those cases, Malcolm finds a common thread. All of the "patients" who seem to have come from another life were in mortal danger when the switch occurred, and Jeff becomes determined to find a way through the time fault to save Elizabeth, his secret love, from death. A gripping adventure written in short chapters, with easy-to-read vocabulary, this book will appeal to teens who like mystery, thrillers, and fantasy, including reluctant readers. It falls into the Christian fiction genre, but has crossover appeal, as the author focuses on the characters' faith but it does not overshadow the excitement of the story.—Jessica Miller, New Britain Public Library, CT

Gr 8 Up—Travis, a champion diver about to start his junior year of high school, is hanging out with his friends and sister on the first day of summer vacation. The cliffs over the lake call to him, and he climbs up to dive from them, only to hear his leg snap when he jumps. Still in the hospital days later, Travis finally hears the diagnosis: bone cancer. Facing amputation and chemotherapy, he knows he'll never get back to the life he had. As Travis gets sicker, his only comfort is his research into death-with-dignity and right-to-die groups, and his only hope is that his friends will help him once he can no longer help himself. The narrative rotates among four teens: Travis, his sister, his girlfriend, and his best friend. Each voice is distinct and shows a different perspective on Travis's life since his diagnosis. The ending is heavily telegraphed from the beginning (the book opens on an unnamed character who admits that "right and wrong dissolved into what I knew I had to do"), but this does not diminish the impact of the final chapters. This is a heartstrings-tugging read that retains the central character's dignity and peace in the face of insurmountable odds. A sensitive book on a delicate topic.—Brandy Danner, Wilmington Memorial Library, MA

Gr 6–10—Samar, an Indian-American teen, blends in easily with her classmates and has never known her extended family or their culture or Sikh religion. That changes when her long-lost Uncle Sandeep shows up, in a turban, on her doorstep four days after the 9/11 attacks to reach out to the family, and an Indian classmate refers to her as a "coconut"—brown on the outside, white on the inside. Samar soon realizes that she has been missing a vital part of herself and she seeks to discover it. Along the way, her path to self-discovery is riddled with pain, racism, healing, love, and reconciliation. Meminger's debut book is a beautiful and sensitive portrait of a young woman's journey from self-absorbed naïveté to selfless, unified awareness.—Terri Clark, Smokey Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 9 Up—This impressive novel opens in 1980 in Santiago, Chile, as young Daniel witnesses the violent arrest of his activist father by Pinochet's secret police. Five years later, Marcelo is released from prison and reunited with his wife and children in Madison, WI (derisively called "Gringolandia''). Years of torture have taken a terrible physical and emotional toll on him. Unable to reconnect with his family, he begins plotting his return to Chile even as he succumbs to alcoholism. Daniel, now 17, struggles to balance his volatile home situation with high school; his girlfriend, Courtney; and hopes of U.S. citizenship. When Courtney begins translating Marcelo's articles into English, her near-obsessive involvement strains her relationship with Daniel. Marcelo eventually returns to Santiago, and the young couple's decision to accompany him has a lasting impact on them both. Miller-Lachmann skillfully incorporates elements of family drama, teen romance, and political thriller into this story of a father and son reknitting themselves into each other's lives. "La Gringa," a section told from Courtney's point of view, illuminates her character without sidetracking the pacing. A prefatory author's note provides valuable historical context, and the glossary of Spanish and Chilean phrases will be useful for readers. This title may need to be booktalked, but it's well worth it. From the stark cover image of an empty pool used to torture victims to the intensely poignant essay that concludes the novel, this is a rare reading experience that both touches the heart and opens the mind.—Amy Pickett, Ridley High School, Folsom, PA

Gr 6–9—Alex's family runs a whitewater-rafting business, and the teen's life is turned upside down when her father drowns in an accident. Unable to bear the pain, her mother goes to visit relatives in Florida to get over her grief. That leaves good-girl Alexandra, cousin and bad-girl Mala, and their grandparents to run the business. Blaming herself and her boyfriend for not being able to save her father, Alex has driven Sean away, though she's still in love with him. Filled with exciting rafting expeditions, parties, fights, flirtations, betrayals, jealousies, and sex, the summer rolls on. Alex knows she needs to get over Sean, but she can't. She also needs to get over her fear of the water, which she's had since the accident. When she nearly drowns in the same place as her father, she realizes that he shouldn't have died there at all. He had returned a broken man from active duty in Iraq and had lost the will to live. After a second drowning of one of the employees, Alex sees clearly that Sean was not to blame for either death, just as the two of them were not to blame for being unable to save her father. A competently written genre romance.—Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 7–9—Set in a small town in Louisiana, this novel revolves around superstitions, hauntings, and badly buried secrets. Iris, 14, plans to spend the summer with her friend Collette, casting spells and calling up ghosts in the local cemetery. The girls know they don't have mystical powers, but they enjoy the game—until Iris sees the ghost of a boy who asks her, "Where y'at Iris?" Convinced that he is the spirit of Elijah, a local boy gone missing a generation before, Iris sets out to uncover the truth of his disappearance. The ghost begins to terrorize her, and the town becomes angry at her digging into the past. Then Ben, whom Collette likes, joins them, causing friction between the girls. The novel climaxes with Iris awakening from a terrifying dream, certain of where Elijah is buried. Her discovery uncovers years of secrets hidden by her father, who was Elijah's best friend. Mitchell packs a lot into this novel; on the periphery of the story are hints of suicide, homosexuality, and spousal abuse that give complexity to the secondary characters living in this small town. Suggest this one to readers who like a supernatural twist to their coming-of-age stories.—Caroline Tesauro, Radford Public Library, VA

Gr 5–8—Nicola is just trying to get through another miserable school day when a tall, gangly extraterrestrial dashes into the classroom looking for "The Earthling Ambassador." Georgio represents the planet Globagaskar where spoiled Princess Petronella has decided to turn Earth into an intergalactic garbage can. Since many Globagaskarians regard our planet as a pleasant, if somewhat primitive, vacation spot, Georgio and his allies hope that an envoy Petronella's age can change her mind. He declares that Nicola meets his qualifications and whisks her off to his planet. Unfortunately, Nicola's first meeting with the petulant princess doesn't go at all well. Petronella not only refuses to relent, but also threatens to have her guest locked up. With only one day left before the scheduled disaster, Nicola comes up with a desperate plan. The protagonist is a resourceful character, but most of the adults—human and alien alike—are portrayed as either malicious or feckless. Georgio, for example, doesn't have a clue about how Nicola can succeed, and his Earthling Ambassador criteria turn out to have no relationship to the task at hand. Also, the science-fiction elements are not always convincing. There is a need for girl-oriented science fiction, but this book lacks the consistent internal logic of quality titles like Diane Duane's "Young Wizards" series (Harcourt).—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Gr 4–6—Stanley Buggles, 11, inherits a house on Crampton Rock from a previously unknown relative. Upon arriving there, he discovers that something strange is going on in the village. The dogs are missing limbs, and Stanley is sternly warned to stay off the moors and to be inside before nightfall. Cryptic messages from a talking mounted pike further pique his curiosity, and he becomes entangled with former pirates who want him to kill the werewolf that stalks the village at night (and who in human form owns a sweet shop by day). The pirates have their own agenda, but Stanley decides that he must take care of the werewolf regardless, to safeguard the town and avenge his great-uncle's death. A spare offering, the narrative moves quickly and focuses more on action than character development. Some plot points are problematic: Stanley's main concern after shooting the werewolf is how to explain the missing gun, and the next day Mr. Cake (the werewolf) is fully recovered and thanking Stanley with no explanation as to why. The black-and-white illustrations interspersed with the text are well done, but most readers will want to stick with Philip Ardagh or Lemony Snicket for far-fetched adventures and dark humor.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL

Gr 9 Up—Things have never looked worse for 17-year-old Jeremy Dance, known as Lil J. After getting involved in a drug deal that ended in the shooting of a police officer, he's nursing a badly wounded arm and desperately looking for a place to hide. He stumbles into an abandoned building and finds an open apartment occupied by an enigmatic man who introduces himself as Kelly. Although Lil J at first assumes that Kelly is just another junkie squatter, a common sight in his Harlem neighborhood, he slowly begins to realize that something much deeper—and much odder—is going on. Using a television remote that seems capable of revealing all facets of Lil J's life both past and present, Kelly guides, probes, and sometimes unsettles the teen into reflecting on the choices he's made leading to a life of crime and drug addiction. Myers has long been an excellent source of rich, nuanced portrayals of inner-city teens, and Dope Sick is no exception; the use of magical realism brings depth and an intriguing strangeness to his sharp-eyed observations of Harlem street life and Lil J's interactions with family and friends. Lil J is a particularly complex and sympathetic character; even as Kelly forces him to take responsibility for his poor decisions, readers come to understand how poverty and a family history of substance abuse impacted his development. Myers's gritty depiction of one young man's struggle to overcome the lure of the streets is sure to keep teens turning the pages.—Meredith Robbins, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School, New York City

Gr 9 Up—After surviving a car accident that killed her entire family, 16-year-old Ever gains the ability to see auras and read thoughts. The overwhelming nature of her new powers and her guilt about the accident turn the once-popular teen into a loner at school. She makes friends with stereotypically gay Miles and mega-Goth Haven, and does everything she can to drown out the din of psychic energy around her. Her loner status comes under siege, as does her friendship with Haven, when a new boy, Damen, shows an interest in her. By accident, Ever learns that he has no aura, a fact that pushes her to uncover more about the mysterious newcomer. Some obvious clues, like the red liquid that Damen drinks instead of food, lead Ever to conclude that he is a vampire when in fact his true nature is more complex. Teens will identify with Ever, who not only has to deal with relationship and friend issues, but also with a dead sister who refuses to cross over and crippling psychic powers that make it hard to cope with everyday life. Though the familiar premise may hook many paranormal romance fans, none of the plot elements receive the thorough treatment they deserve, and the revelation in the end relies too heavily on backstory. Not a first pick in this ever-expanding genre.—Kim Ventrella, Ralph Ellison Library, Oklahoma City, OK

Gr 5–8—Forced to leave their privileged life in Holland, Anneke and her family are transported to the "model city" of Theresienstadt. Her father is a well-known painter/artist and is ordered to create much of the artwork for the pleasure of the Nazi officers in charge of this "unique" concentration camp. Anneke's forced labor in the kitchen is less brutal and harsh than some of the other assigned duties, and this once-spoiled 14-year-old learns that survival motivates any kind of work and conditions. But when her father begins to create a false series of signage and backdrop scenes to use as part of Hitler's documentary on the camp to falsely represent the "good" treatment and conditions of the Jews imprisoned there, Anneke has difficulty understanding his rationale. Her father's continual mantra is "the important thing is that we are together." As she watches the weekly transport orders of her companions to what she understands are the death camps, Anneke learns that sometimes placing one's ethics and values aside may be the only way to survive. Yet, once she discovers the artists' depictions of the camp's truly barbaric status, she develops a greater appreciation for her father's role. This often graphic and realistic novel, written in memoir format, raises questions of moral principles and beliefs while it portrays the horrors of the Holocaust.—Rita Soltan, Youth Services Consultant, West Bloomfield, MI

Gr 5–8—In this prequel to The Boy Who Saved Baseball (Philomel, 2003), once again the fate of a baseball-loving town rests on the outcome of an epic game. In the 1880s, orphaned Jack, 12, is riding west to seek out his long-lost uncle Long John Dillon, a mine owner in California. Dillontown began as a boomtown, but with its gold seemingly tapped out, the townsfolk have pinned their hopes on their mighty baseball team led by Cap'n Dillon. Jack longs to play ball alongside his uncle, but he is waylaid by a mysterious stranger who turns out to be Billy the Kid. Billy accompanies Jack on his journey, and the two forge a strong friendship, while Billy displays an unexpected talent for baseball. They arrive just in time to take part in the contest between Dillontown's champions and a team of professional players. Ritter writes in an idiom-laden, mock-epic style full of bombast and bravado. When he earns a chance to play on his uncle's team, Jack exults in "standing amongst the tobacco-chewing, whisker-chin-drooling, cuss-word-spewing brigade." Reminiscent of the works of Sid Fleischman, this tall-tale page-turner stands alone though it will be most appreciated by fans of Ritter's earlier works.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 9 Up—Every summer, Luke and his parents take a two-week vacation at their cabin on a lake. The story follows the boy over the course of four summers: at 13, 14, 15, and 16. From early teen excitedness to midteen pretension, this is a subtle and often humorous portrait of how age influences one's outlook on life, friends, parents, girls, etc. Luke is delightfully honest (and frank), and a likable and realistic protagonist. Surface Tension offers readers an introspective glimpse into a pretty normal adolescent life, and it's likely to be enjoyed by teens who are in the throes of trying to figure things out for themselves.—Emily Chornomaz, Brooklyn Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—Alice lost her mother to cancer years earlier. Now 16, she finds herself burdened with a stepmother and a new baby sister. Unable to accept her new life, she retreats into herself and thwarts any attempt at togetherness on the part of her family. Instead, she focuses her energy on her dog, Cobain; the music she plays at church with her best friend, Claire; and her rebel boyfriend. Fresh from an argument with Claire and confusion over whether or not to sleep with Blaze, Alice finds herself stuck at her stepmother's parents' home for Thanksgiving. When disaster strikes during a blizzard on the drive home, she is forced to take stock of herself and her family for the first time. At first, Alice's rampant use of clichés can be distracting (Claire knows her like "a druggie knows her best vein"; the first time she locked eyes with Blaze "was like a rocket blasting off into space"). However, the story is told by a teenager, and the clichés lend authenticity to the voice of an angst-ridden young woman. Schroeder weaves Alice in Wonderland (both Alice's namesake and her mother's favorite book) references throughout the book to echo the topsy-turvy nature of her protagonist's life. It is this roller coaster of emotions to which many teen readers will relate. A quick, yet satisfying, novel in verse.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 5–8—Shortly before the all-important Namingfest that will determine their future trades, Ariel and her friend Zeke find an ancient artifact that changes the course of their lives. Though Ariel recognizes a few of the symbols on the telling dart, the message itself is a mystery as all history was forbidden following the devastation of the Blind War. The discovery of the dart becomes more than simply an interesting find when two strangers come to the village seeking both the dart and its recipient. Ariel is taken by force and, unknown to her, her mother murdered. After escaping with help from Zeke, the two friends continue on a dangerous quest to discover who or what sent the telling dart, what it means, and why they want Ariel dead. This is a solid and well-paced fantasy in which the journey is more important than the conclusion. Ariel's growth into her role as Farwalker is at the heart of the novel, and her relationship with Scarl, her kidnapper-turned-protector, is particularly well developed. The theme of finding and accepting one's true calling resonates. Readers who enjoyed Jeanne DuPrau's The City of Ember (Random, 2003) will enjoy entering the world of Finders, Tree-Singers, and Farwalkers.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL

Gr 5–7—Postapocalyptic fiction and faeries seem an unlikely combination. However, Simner weaves these strands together to produce a thought-provoking and thrilling story about a girl at war with herself and her own magical abilities. In her world, the cities are dead, and the towns and villages have reverted to a preindustrial farming economy. Society has been devastated by a war between humans and faeries. The natural world has turned against people and exhibits a malign intelligence that it uses to ensnare unwary humans. As the story opens, Liza, 15, tells of how her baby sister, who showed the clear hair strands of those with faerie powers, is left on a hillside by her father and killed by wild animals. After her death, Liza's mother leaves the family. When Liza realizes that she is able to see into the past and the future, she runs away to avoid hurting anyone else with her powers. She is joined by her neighbor Matthew, who turns out to have magical abilities of his own. Together they undertake a perilous journey as they search for Liza's mother, and, in the process, gain a greater understanding of the war and the possibility of a new beginning. Simner perfectly captures the sense of danger with her stark prose and ratchets up the tension as readers slowly begin to unravel the terrible truth of what happened to the land of Faerie during the war. The characters are well drawn, and the resolution is deftly handled, being both satisfying and firmly grounded in Liza's emotional reality. Fans of Lois Lowry's trilogy, which includes The Giver (Houghton, 1993), will thoroughly enjoy this novel.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

Gr 5–8—"Cut out his beating heart-and give it to me" a voice commands Barnaby Grimes in the opening chapter of this roller-coaster ride of horror. The Grassington Hall School headmaster has asked Barnaby, a tick-tock lad who leaps across 19^th-century English rooftops to make and pick up deliveries, to fetch an exotic stuffed bird that will arrive in a crate by boat. Shortly thereafter, he learns that the students at the school have become violent, bloodthirsty, and intent on sacrifice. He finds himself in the middle of the melee and is finally able to track the trouble back to the bird—the Catincatapetl—named after a Toltec demon god. In the end, he is able to restore order using special concentration powers that his friend Mei Ling has taught him. Foreshadowing livens up the pace for most of the story and will keep young readers guessing until the final twist. Riddell's line drawings are woven throughout, and the silhouettes at the end of each chapter spice up the text with occasional subtle humor and added layers of meaning—-James K. Irwin, Sandy Library, UT

Gr 7–9—Fans of Libba Bray's "Gemma Doyle" trilogy (Delacorte) will find some similarities in this modern, upbeat story told entirely in the second person. Unfortunately, this novel is not as compelling or well written. An unnamed "you" is a 14-year-old foster child from South Carolina who has an unsettling ability to see visions of the future, which she calls "shimmers." Fearing that her foster parents are about to send her back to a group home because her odd behavior might harm their toddler, she gets accepted to the most prestigious boarding school in the country, paid for by an anonymous benefactor. She makes new friends and has an enemy who is sabotaging her studies and trying to frame her as a thief. With the help of her friends and her shimmering ability, she is able to uncover the school's sinister secrets. Much of the book is devoted to describing the boarding-school environment, and there are few magic or fantastical elements. The second-person narrative is a novelty that neither enhances nor hinders the plot. Additional, at best.—Kimberly Garnick Giarratano, Rockaway Township Public Library, NJ

Gr 9 Up—WriteGirl is a Los Angeles-based creative writing program that pairs teen girls with professional women writers. This book collects poems and excerpts from novels, screenplays, and essays that were created during their workshops. The pieces are organized into sections, grouped roughly by topic, for example, "The Voice Inside [Being]," "A Chill Ran Up My Spine [Mystery]," "When Scars Were Stories [Looking Back], and "Close to Home [Family]." The anthology is uneven but interesting and very readable. Some of the works are quite poignant, others laugh-out-loud funny, and many thought-provoking. Some of the writing is quite rough, obviously the work of newcomers to the craft. The mentors' introductions are especially intriguing, as many allow insight into the collaborative process the writers use. Sixteen writing prompts are appended, along with some samples of various WriteGirl participants' responses. This title might inspire some readers to become writers themselves.—Geri Diorio, The Ridgefield Library, CT

Gr 9 Up—Rowan lives in a house that has been turned into a mausoleum. Her older brother drowned on vacation, and now her family is drowning in grief. Her parents have split, her mother has retreated into a haze of pills and sleep, and the 15-year-old has become the caregiver for her 6-year-old sister. She numbly moves along this path until the day a boy in a coffee shop hands her a photo negative that he mistakenly thinks fell out of her bag. This simple action sets off a surprising chain reaction of events. She meets Bee, who was in the coffee shop at the time, and learns of a connection between the older girl and her brother. She also discovers some amazing things about the people around her, slowly brings life back to her broken family, and even finds love. Some readers may find this book a little slow to start, but once past the first two chapters, they will be sucked into the puzzle. The short chapters reveal many kind and thoughtful people who are willing to help Rowan, and the dynamics among characters ring true. Give this poignant, rewarding story to teens who need books dealing with grief or who crave romance amid tragedy and hardship.—Jessica Miller, New Britain Public Library, CT

Gr 4–8—Primary sources serve as the foundation for these short, fictionalized stories of Lincoln's life. The first chapter tells of his earning money by building a flatboat and carrying two men and their luggage to a steamer on the Ohio River. Floating down the Mississippi River to New Orleans is the basis of the second and third chapters and recounts Lincoln's developing and deepening antislavery sentiments. The narratives are what Lincoln "might have said." His actual words are designated by brown text. It is hoped that young readers will understand this distinction. The art is the highlight of the book. Soft, muted brown-toned drawings portray topics relating to the stories, including Lincoln as a boy and young man, river scenes, and the brutality of slavery. Beautifully rendered, they elegantly illustrate the fictionalized tales. Librarians and classroom teachers would best utilize this book in conjunction with other material to present a more thorough story.—Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 9 Up—It's the summer before her senior year, and Vidalia Sloane has the opportunity of her young lifetime. She has won a scholarship to study art in Paris. Immediately upon her arrival she immerses herself in the experience, visiting museums and meeting new friends and potential lovers, including the mysterious and charming Marco, a 19-year-old aspiring art dealer. With him she forgets that she has no money for weekend trips with the other American students. He eases her panic when her agoraphobic mother calls. He fills the time so that Vidalia is away from her inattentive host family. He is also a genius when it comes to bending the rules, believing that it is acceptable to take from those who have more than enough. Swept up in the excitement of the relationship, Vidalia goes along with him, but just how far can she bend the rules before they break? Watson does a wonderful job of describing Vidalia's emotions throughout the book. However, it is hard to figure out how she goes from typical high school student to art thief. There are also some other oddities to the plot, such as the on-again-off-again relationship between Vidalia and Heather, another program participant from her hometown. Despite these foibles, readers will enjoy this story, getting caught up in the romance and Parisian ambiance.—Melyssa Malinowski, Kenwood High School, Baltimore, MD

Gr 3–6—Fara wore mismatched socks to school in fifth grade and caused such a ruckus that she started mixing them on purpose so that others would notice her. Now in sixth grade, she's known as "that sock girl," and she uses this attention to launch a campaign for class president. Once elected, she hopes to establish a recycling program and be known for something worthwhile. Unfortunately, the sock craze has a momentum all its own, and Fara struggles to keep it under control while launching her campaign, navigating a misunderstanding with her best friend, and sparring with the class villain. The writing is clear, and the kids' voices are realistically silly. Never have so many sock puns been compiled into one volume. The third-person narration increases suspense by giving readers information hidden to Fara. She matures realistically throughout the novel and ends up content with the outcome, even though it isn't all she had hoped for. The story is sometimes far-fetched, but it consistently comes back down to earth with likable characters, unexpected twists, and a bit of whimsy.—Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

Gr 6–9—Cam O'Mara, 14, has never ridden a bull in his life and doesn't want to, despite coming from a family of prizewinning riders in Winnemucca, NV. But when his older brother comes back paralyzed from Iraq, he gives up skateboarding for bull riding, much to the dismay of his mother and skater best friend. Partly, Cam is rebelling to get attention, but ultimately he is trying to help with the family's finances, needed to pay for travel to and from Ben's extensive rehabilitation in Palo Alto, CA. When Cam secretly enters a $15,000-prize competition using a fake ID, the family somewhat unrealistically joins together to support him afterward. Williams does an adequate job of capturing the small-town sense of community and pride and explains the rodeo lingo well enough. However, the narrative and dialogue fail to involve readers on more than a rudimentary level. Despite the timeliness of the topic, the audience for this book is limited to those with a real interest in the sport. For an emotionally charged read with a 14-year-old male protagonist, a strong sense of place, and gripping account of how a family copes in the aftermath of tragedy, suggest Gary D. Schmidt's Trouble (Clarion, 2008).—Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Max is stoked to be attending Yale's arts program, but his near-disastrous run-in with Olivia leaves him wondering about his romantic prospects there. Olivia's sworn off guys for the summer, and she's working on Castration Celebration, a musical about a sweet girl wronged by her lust-driven boyfriend. The two spar throughout the program, with Max accepting Olivia's elaborate challenges to prove his dedication to her. After a quick road trip and an all-night discussion, the pair finally accept their attraction to one another and nearly achieve a happy ending. It's no surprise that hormones drive this plot, and Max's attempts to win Olivia's affections are perfectly pulled from contemporary date movies. Pop references collide with gross-out humor as Max creates a song featuring Twilight's Bella and music by U2 that will have teens groaning and laughing. Olivia's writing feels stilted, an odd blend of small-town nostalgia and urban edginess, and the characters, both in the musical and in the narrative, lack diverse voices. Max enjoys the odd joint, and his drug use does have consequences. Teens will enjoy the plentiful laughs and the authentic friendship that Max develops with Zeke, his roommate. Lighthearted and humorous, this novel will appeal to older readers.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

Gr 6–9—Lauren Cracknell, 14, is constantly getting into trouble. When she is not hanging out at her mother's hair salon with her friend Dex, she is busy snooping in her sister's room or emailing the entire grade an embarrassing photo of the class bully. After forgetting to mail invitations to an important salon event, she is forced to deliver them on a bike. As the messenger, she is inadvertently implicated in a blackmail scheme. The victim is none other than her crabby English teacher whom Lauren fears is dating her newly separated mom. The teen must figure out who is blackmailing her teacher and why before someone gets hurt. Wright's novel is fast paced and light and her characters are likable and upbeat. However, many readers may have trouble connecting with the British slang, making this quirky read an additional purchase.—Kimberly Garnick Giarratano, Rockaway Township Public Library, NJ

Gr 9 Up—Following high school graduation, Remy Walker is working at a gas station in Dwyer, WV, a town that is limping along in the wake of its coal-mining past. Strong feelings for Lisa, his girlfriend who is going away to college, lead Remy to decide to leave Dwyer and the mountain that has been his family's home for more than 150 years, and go with her. Her parents don't support this plan, but his father, who is self-employed and without other resources, offers him the proceeds of selling Walker Mountain to the mining company, to allow access to other peaks where they are practicing mountaintop mining removal. To complicate matters, the earnest youthful passion that he feels for Lisa is shaken not only by his ties to the land and his dad, but also by Dana, an intriguing artist painting murals on water towers during her summer break from college. Good writing drives stellar characterization of this strong but introspective protagonist struggling with his own version of the universal questions of who he is and what matters most. Wyatt creates a vivid sense of place where nobody has much, but the land is an organic and awesome presence in the lives of people with ties to it. Kinship with Remy will come easily to readers facing similar decisions about growing up and leaving home, especially when it comes to leaving a small town or a place suffering a downward economic spiral.—Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA

Gr 5–8—After a preliminary chapter that takes readers into the crux of the story, each book backtracks to the explorer's early life and the history surrounding each voyage. Admittedly it is difficult to inject much verve into the Old World politics, but these sections feel dutiful and bland. The books are best when the exploration is underway, although the authors make only limited use of the first-person accounts available. Different problems arise when the adventurers land: specifically, when they meet the locals. In LaSalle, native North Americans are referred to as Indians, a rather dated choice that is extra curious given that in Magellan the natives of the Indian subcontinent are also called Indians. DeSoto's slaughter and enslavement of South, Central, and North American native peoples (also called Indians) would seem to merit more discussion, while his actions in battle are called brave and heroic. Photos and reproductions of archival items are often small, cropped, or of poor quality; maps are inconsistent and low on detail, and the design can only be called amateurish. "The Library of Explorers and Exploration" (Rosen) offers a more balanced and questioning presentation, and has a more extensive use of primary sources and full-bleed art.—Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD

Gr 6 Up—Baker, an award-winning cartoonist and graphic-novel illustrator, gives aspiring cartoonists irreverent advice about how to succeed in their chosen field. He offers instruction in basic drawing techniques such as choosing the right tools and discusses the importance of learning to draw shapes, exaggerating, and using references. But the author's most inspiring advice focuses on how to succeed as a cartoonist. Using a no-nonsense tone, he explains to young artists that if they want to become cartoonists, they must begin by drawing cartoons. He also argues that young people do not need a "plan B" career to fall back on because if they really practice and become proficient at what they love to do, they will succeed. Baker's straightforward guidance is enhanced by his own unique black-and-white and full-color cartoons. This guide will help inspire young artists to stop procrastinating and start drawing.—Mari Pongkhamsing, St. Perpetua School, Lafayette, CA

Gr 7 Up—This no-nonsense guide packs a great deal into its pages. Much of the information is similar to that in the first edition (2004), although it has been slightly reorganized and a couple of chapters have been added, most notably two at the beginning about defining fitness as well as a chapter on activities for teens with physical challenges. Topics include reasons to stay fit, how to get started with diet and exercise, how to maintain a fitness program, activities to try, and where to find out more. Each chapter includes input from a variety of doctors and other health professionals and is extremely detailed without getting bogged down in medical jargon. There is even advice on how to choose appropriate athletic shoes and basic rules for many recreational activities and sports. The Nemours Foundation Kid's Health Web site is referenced throughout, and other Web resources have been added. The text is written in a conversational tone that pairs well with the topic. The only drawback is the lack of illustrations, which would have helped, especially in the sections about choosing shoes and exercise equipment, and playing different sports. This is a helpful reference for basic diet and exercise information for health reports or personal use.—Robin Henry, Wakeland High School, Frisco, TX

Gr 3–7—Most books on the Amazon rely on spectacular photos of animals and plants to make an impact on readers. Berkenkamp's introduction to the river basin incorporates maps, drawings, and photos in various shades of green and brown on recycled paper. Yet, the text is far from dull. The conversational style provides a "you are there" feeling, conveying information and anecdotes while stressing outdoor survival skills. Facts about tropical rainforests, the Amazon and its tributaries, plus various plants and animals are woven throughout the text. Chapters feature tips on exploring safely on land and water, finding food and drinking water, and surviving at night. Descriptions of how to choose insects for a meal or how to distinguish varieties of nocturnal caiman by their eyeshine will intrigue potential explorers because of their exotic topics. However, many of the survival skills, such as crossing rivers or setting up shelter, could prove useful in other locations. Even readers who never travel to Amazonia will appreciate the region's complexity and significance after perusing this book, which ends with suggestions for ways to slow its destruction. Because of the book's broad sweep, those wanting in-depth information on specific topics will need to complete additional research, but this volume should stimulate interest in this diverse and important region.—Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Gr 5–9—This treatment of the Mexican muralist is a companion piece to Bernier-Grand's Frida (2007), but bears more resemblance to the author's César: ¡Si, se puede! (2004, both Marshall Cavendish). All three titles employ free verse, but Frida's story is told visually through her own art; Diego and César exhibit Diaz's stylized digital and mixed-media compositions, his recognizable figures rendered in profile, with a prominent, single eye. Diaz is in top form here with luminous scenes drenched in color, layered with indigenous and political motifs, and sensitive to the various art styles his subject explored. However, only four reproductions of Rivera's work are included, which barely scratch the surface. That said, author and artist provide a nuanced and spirited look at a complex individual. Bernier-Grand's first-person poems introduce Rivera as storyteller, one who proceeds to spin true and fabricated details. Fact and fiction are sorted in the meticulous end matter, which includes a biographical overview, sources, endnotes, quotations by the artist, and a photograph. One emerges with a sense of Rivera's genius, devilish personality, and struggles both in relation to accepting financial support from oppressive governments and in his capacity to be, by turns, self-centered or tender with the many women and children in his life. Young people will be surprised and entertained by this accessible, arresting portrait.—Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library

Gr 5–10—Avoiding the common approach of focusing on specific artists as a framework, these titles succeed in presenting a bird's-eye view of each period without oversimplification. Information on individual artists is included in the broader context of the movement. Visually exciting, with plenty of color, layouts are hip and should appeal to the target audience. The texts can be choppy as the authors flit from one point to the next, but they cover a lot of ground. There is an emphasis on the Internet as a research tool. For example, it is suggested in Surrealism that any work of art mentioned, but not pictured, may be looked up on Google Image Search. While this is true of most pieces, it is not fail-proof. While similar titles may offer more depth, these books fill the gap between basic introductions and dry research texts.—Lisa Glasscock, Columbine Public Library, Littleton, CO

Gr 4–7—What's good here: interesting layouts; big, high-quality reproductions and photographs on heavy paper; insightful quotes from diverse sources; and meaty selections of the artist's own writing (in the case of Gehry, an excerpt from an essay about him) at the end of the book. Readers get a strong sense of each artist's personality along with an excellent survey of his work. What's bad: captions printed on the edge of the pages, oriented vertically so that children have to turn the book sideways to read them. And that's really a minor flaw.—Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD

Gr 10 Up—An enlightening entry for Harry Potter devotees, particularly those wanting to write term papers on the series. Following a discussion of Rowling and the events that shaped her life, 11 articles present arguments that her work carries personal political perspectives, criticizes the British government's handling of the War on Terror, and takes a "complex view of race." The last chapter, "Contemporary Perspectives on Political Issues," contains entries on terrorism, civil liberties, and ethnic cleansing that are not directly related to Harry Potter. The essays, written in clear, accessible language by professors, journalists, or directors of prominent social agencies, range in length from a few to 15 pages. The associations made between the plots, characters, settings, and events of the series and real life are quite interesting and provocative. Obviously the essays make little sense without knowledge of the books. Discussion questions are appended. While not an essential purchase, these far-reaching perspectives are individual interpretations of Rowling's works beyond the magic and wizards.—Joanne K. Cecere, Monroe-Woodbury High School, Central Valley, NY

Gr 4–8—Carlson does an admirable job of capturing the character of the man who enthralled the world with his magical illusions and mystifying escapes. She carefully traces Houdini's roots and his laborious path to international fame, emphasizing the personal integrity that guided his decisions. Many people, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, longed to believe that Houdini possessed supernatural powers, but he was determined to resist this notion and elevate magic to an art form. The author discusses the suspicious circumstances surrounding his death as well as current efforts to exhume the body to determine if foul play was involved. Throughout the book, Carlson has inserted 21 of Houdini's magic tricks and illusions for children to practice as well as text boxes that explore important people or events of the time. The volume is liberally laced with photographs, illustrations, and posters advertising Houdini's act. This is a well-written book on a fascinating topic. Libraries, especially those in which Sid Fleischman's Escape: The Story of the Great Houdini (HarperCollins, 2006) is popular, will want to consider it for purchase.—Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ

Gr 5 Up—With marvelously detailed pop-up spreads and high-quality sound, this look at various avian ecosystems is absolutely spectacular. Double-page sections depict the environmental characteristics and native species of the following North American habitats: the Sonoran Desert; a Pacific seabird colony; an eastern deciduous forest; the Arctic tundra; a cypress swamp; grasslands; and the Pacific rain forest. The paper sculptures, filled with colorful and realistic renderings of flora and local birdlife, are accompanied by a soundtrack of the species' calls and songs recorded (in stereo) from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Macaulay Library collection. Brief paragraphs call attention to each scene's visual and aural highlights, while a fold-down flap presents a chart that identifies the birds by their location in the picture and on the recording. Additional information about the habitats and species is appended. This sonorous, if pricey, selection provides a breathtaking entry into the world of birding, and might find a place in libraries that cater to museum and science educators.—Joy Fleishhacker, School Library Journal

Gr 4–7—Houseflies and mosquitoes are two of the species introduced in this busy compendium. Only a few of the big families are described specifically, but many aspects of the insects' history, classification, physical characteristics, metamorphosis, and behavior are covered. Short chunks of text are interspersed with colorful photographs, drawings, and insets. A small bit of Canadian bias occurs on a page encouraging readers to join a "BioBlitz" (a species-counting program in Canada). Several other suggested activities for observing flies would work well for science projects. Some passages will challenge less-confident readers, but this book offers considerable information about this homely insect and its role in the ecosystem. A useful addition for collections needing new or additional material.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 5–7—An outstanding array of archival photos and art, along with flashy packaging, will propel this celebration of the first Moon landing's 40th anniversary into the hands of readers, and viewers too, as a DVD containing about an hour of video clips is tucked into the front cover. The single-topic spreads open with looks at the Moon in myth and prehistory, then go on to trace the development of the space race, the selection and training of astronauts, the Apollo missions from 11 on, and, best of all, recent signs (finally!) of renewed interest in revisiting our nearest neighbor in space. Each spread is bright with pictures, from depictions of cave paintings and early rockets to large cutaways of a Saturn V rocket, an Apollo Command and Service Module, and an "extravehicular mobility unit" (aka a space suit). The visuals are interspersed with informative leadoff introductions, captions, and floating blocks of text. The writing isn't as animated as in Catherine Thimmesh's Team Moon (Houghton, 2006), but the dramatic pictures more than compensate, and eight closing pages of basic Moon facts and figures tack on additional value.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—Using primary resources, photographs, and solid research, Edge has written a well-organized and engaging history of our prison system. Beginning with colonial times and moving chronologically to present-day issues and concerns, she touches on relevant topics that students can relate to and understand. In describing colonial punishments, Edge uses Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter as one of her examples. She also includes quotes from people who were incarcerated at various stages of our country's development. Photographs of an assortment of facilities as well as well-known prisoners appear throughout. In addition, high-level vocabulary words that appear in quotes are defined within the text. While this book can serve as an excellent resource for reports, it is an interesting read as a stand-alone text.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 6–9—In the fall of 2007, Ellis visited Jordan in an attempt to bring attention to the plight of adolescent Iraqi refugees. The resulting book is a collection of heartrending entries based on interviews with displaced kids between the ages 8 and 19. Though young in years, these individuals have suffered through more death, destruction, and violence than most people endure in a lifetime. Their voices run the gamut from sad to hopeful to angry to insightful. Most express frustration at living in a land that doesn't necessarily want them, and more than one espouses an anti-American sentiment. But the young people are honest in their desire for an end to the war, peace among nations, a solid education, and a place to finally call home. The introduction offers a clear, concise summary of the events leading up to the 2003 Iraq invasion. Maps of both the Middle East and the world provide readers with an understanding of where this is all taking place, and the photographs accompanying the stories personalize the harrowing plights (though some interviewees declined to have their pictures published for safety reasons) that are hard for those who haven't lived them to comprehend.—Kelly McGorray, Glenbard South High School, Glen Ellyn, IL

Gr 3–6—Franco understands the nuanced world of the fluffy, fractious, and faithful feline friend. Thirty-two unusual, concrete poems, one per page with a single exception, are matched by Wertz's monoprints. The words move in several directions and sometimes inhabit multiple objects. The poems are so embedded within the illustrations that it is hard to imagine them without the artwork; they are virtually inseparable. In a print of a cat licking its neck, its exceptionally long tongue is created out of words. Readers following the poem will find they are forced to turn the book to the side, and may crane their own necks, experiencing an odd identification with the activity of the cat. The poem "Princess" uses arrows as part of the illustrated content to keep readers on the language path as "Princess paces down and up" awaiting her supper. At times, the path isn't obvious, but youngsters delight in solving puzzles, and these are merely little challenges that prove fun to master. In "Hot Daze," a red devilish arrow points to the poem's beginning. Among the various subjects are fat cats, shy cats, a kitty who "sips from toilet bowl," and a polydactyl cat with "poofy fur" and "prissy looks." Cat lovers will recognize their felines stretching, purring, and napping. This collection would pair nicely with Sharon Creech's Hate That Cat (HarperCollins, 2008).—Teresa Pfeifer, Alfred Zanetti Montessori Magnet School, Springfield, MA

Gr 8 Up—This series aims to show that the influence of signal events in world history goes beyond the immediate repercussions. Russian Revolution begins with an overview of the Czar's Russia and the political machinations that brought about revolution. The disputes between different revolutionary groups led to the eventual triumph of the Bolsheviks and the reigns of Lenin and Stalin. Stalin's brutality in particular receives a lot of attention. The final chapters cover the transition to a more open society, the fall of the Soviet Union, and the age of Putin. The 1979 overthrow of the corrupt Nicaraguan government by the Marxist Sandinistas brought change to one of the poorest countries in the Americas and instilled in the U.S. new fears about the spread of Communism. The Sandinistas' social programs made them popular initially, but repressive measures like forced land redistribution won them enemies at home and abroad. The Contras, backed in part by illegal U.S. arms sales to Iran, waged a 10-year war against the government that ended with the peaceful transfer of power but failed to quash the Sandinistas entirely. Kallen offers a good overview of one of the Latin American theaters of the Cold War. Both volumes will be useful where 20th-century history materials are needed. However, readers will benefit from having some knowledge of the ideological conflict between communism and capitalism as the authors treat it only briefly.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

Gr 6–10—Each of these books opens with an account of a pivotal moment in the presidential race, followed by a chapter-length biographical sketch that concentrates on the candidate's political journey. The remaining chapters discuss the campaigns from each candidate's perspective, focusing more on delegate counts and news coverage than on exposition or analysis of their positions and policies. Both authors are admiring of their subjects, but Tracy does address some of Clinton's difficulties with negative media coverage and remarks made by her husband. Gibson, on the other hand, glosses over the controversies that Obama encountered, and her book frequently reads like a press release, which is not surprising given her reliance on Obama's Web site, which she cites as a source some 20 times. Each chapter ends with a single-page "FYInfo" sidebar that discusses some aspect of the presidential-election process or a topic related to the campaign. Average-quality color photos supplement the text. Although these candidacies were indeed historic, the books do not offer any information that has not been exhaustively covered in a variety of sources. Readers and researchers would be better served by more general biographies such as Garen Thomas's Yes, We Can: A Biography of Barack Obama (Feiwel, 2008).—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 8 Up—This book offers an evenhanded approach to the controversy surrounding the origins of man. Beginning with a general overview, Gordon goes on to outline the main concepts of evolution and intelligent design. She introduces the key current and historical players involved with each view, the arguments that have been made, and the battlegrounds in which the conflict has been and continues to be played out. Ending with a look at how the debate is likely to continue, especially from the point of view of the First Amendment Center, Gordon predicts a long and difficult battle. Excellent sidebars, including one about the relationship between intelligent design and creationism and another about the fictionalizing in Inherit the Wind, add breadth to arguments on both sides. Extensive chapter notes, an index, and a list of sources (book, agency, and Internet) are strong additions. This book is most notable for its unbiased presentation of the arguments on each side of this contentious debate.—Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA

Gr 6–8—Despite their slim size, these biographies offer a wealth of concise and well-organized information. Each one opens with a dramatic highlight or incident and then places the figure in historical context. Although there are numerous books about Marquette and Parks, these titles stand out because of their engaging writing style and the explanations they offer of the times in which the subjects lived. Each book is fair and balanced and includes viewpoints from those who opposed or disagreed with each person's accomplishments. The design is crisp and colorful without overwhelming the words on the page. Useful for reports and appealing enough to be read on their own.—Kristen Oravec, Flint Hill Middle School, Oakton, VA

Gr 8 Up—One hundred years after the death of Muhammad, Muslim armies had conquered most of North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Spain and were fighting as far north as modern France. This attractively illustrated history begins with Muhammad's life and revelations and covers the early period of the Muslim community first as it struggled to survive and then as it gradually assumed dominance over the Arabian peninsula. The conflict surrounding the succession of caliphs after Muhammad's death is well detailed and gives readers some insight into the divide between modern-day Sunni and Shi'ite Muslims. The controversial question of whether Islam is "a religion of the sword" in light of its spread through conquest is treated only briefly. A section on primary-source research will intrigue historically minded readers, and a who's who and lists of further reading make this volume highly useful for reports.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

Gr 6–10—Here are 97 nifty tips (with a few tongue-in-cheek how-tos thrown in) for becoming your own fierce self. The text is similar to Juliana Foster's The Girls' Book (Scholastic, 2007) but is entirely focused on lifestyle, health, and beauty. Each entry has simple instructions accompanied by entertaining illustrations. This upbeat and amusing style guide adopts a hip tone for the tween and young-teen set. Particularly enjoyable entries include "How to Eat Spaghetti Like a Real Italian," "How to Customize Your School Uniform," "How to Convince People You're a Hand Model," and "How to Lip-synch Successfully." Jeffrie's snappy writing and Ryan's great line drawings and stylish design make Glamour an easy, breezy read that will help girls become fashion forward.—Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta

Gr 3–6—Starting at the surface of the Pacific Ocean, Jenkins introduces some of the animals that inhabit descending layers of water all the way down to the Marianas Trench. At nearly 36,000 feet, this zone has been visited only once, by human passengers of a research vessel. Depicted in Jenkins's signature handsome collages, the denizens of each level swim against ever-darkening backgrounds ranging from sunny blue to deepest black. Each double-page segment begins with a paragraph or two explaining the growing degree of darkness, cold, and pressure, and how all of these affect the lives of the resident creatures. A bar running down the far right of each scene indicates depth. Usually three or four animals—whales, fish, worms, and more—are featured. Sometimes colorful or luminescent and often toothy, they are both familiar and strange. In some views, the animals are relative in size, but in others, those that are actually quite different in scale appear to be similar. At the end of the book, an added paragraph about each scene takes up the matter of size. Here length is stated, and silhouettes compare each creature to either an adult human's hand or a full body. The bold views tend to emphasize the weirdness of these little-known species, but the repeated message that humans have much to explore and learn in the deeper ocean is intriguing and inviting. This is a good complement to Sneed B. Collard's The Deep-Sea Floor (Charlesbridge, 2003), which introduces some of the same animals and offers more information about recent exploration.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 3–7—This presentation is written as if it were a school play about the 13 colonies becoming a nation. Told through colorful comic-book illustrations, it stars students dressed as states humorously explaining the path to the writing of the Constitution. The brief text is accompanied by speech balloons expressing the states' multiple, often competing, views. Anecdotes such as Ben Franklin being a big talker, George Washington's and Ben Franklin's special chairs, and the secrecy of the meetings add interest and reveal the historical figures as being real people. Even then there were concerns about the press reporting on governmental procedures. The vividly colored spreads will hold the interest of even middle school students and would be useful to introduce how our form of government was created. Students will enjoy presenting this book as reader's theater. Further information about the proceedings of the Continental Convention of 1787 is included in an afterword, and the notes section answers important questions not explained in the text. This is a great book to use along with Lane Smith's John, Paul, George, and Ben (Hyperion, 2006).—Nancy Baumann, Indian Paintbrush Elementary, Laramie, WY

Gr 5–8—This is the story of a remarkable woman, brought up during the Depression and with no college education, who single-handedly changed the way America viewed its cities. Short chapters describe how, from Jacobs's beginnings in Scranton, PA, it was clear that this inquisitive, sometimes obstreperous girl had plans for her future. At 18, she moved to New York to pursue her career as a writer and fell in love with the city. It was there that she had her infamous battles with Robert Moses over urban renewal and did the research for her most famous book, The Death and Life of Great American Cities. Black-and-white photographs, maps, and political cartoons and other reproductions appear on most pages. While the biography is not always a page-turner, Lang and Wunsch are to be commended for introducing a fascinating female role model. Excellent notes and a good index enhance the title's usefulness.—Betty S. Evans, Missouri State University, Springfield

Gr 6–10—The drama of Poe's tortured life unfolds in accessible prose. Textual information is interspersed with photos, artistic interpretations, and revealing quotations presented in script. Though not as extensive in scope as Milton Meltzer's Edgar Allan Poe (21st Century, 2003) or Tristan Boyer Binns's Edgar Allan Poe: Master of Suspense (Watts, 2005), this volume offers a fairly complete and thoroughly readable description of Poe's life and his importance to literature. His writing is shown to have grown from his troubled, largely dark, lifetime experiences and the constant longing for connection and love. In addition to his creative writing, Lange discusses popular psychological interpretations of Poe's work and credits him with creating new literary genres such as the detective story and the horror story. The book's brevity and format render it a good addition for reports and background for an author study.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 9 Up—Darwin's life and work after the voyage of the Beagle make up the bulk of this biography. Leone traces the roots of Darwin's thought and introduces the important scientists of his time who influenced, supported, and criticized his theories. Drawings and photos in color and sepia lighten the dense, fact-filled writing, which occasionally has the tone of a research paper. Short essays on lightly tinted pages explain concepts such as the meaning of the word "species," the theory of creationism, and the contributions of Gregor Mendel. Although most quotations are taken from primary sources, others are attributed to previous biographers. For example, a quotation from the headmaster of Darwin's school, "this stupid fellow will attend to…rubbish but will not work at anything really useful," is listed in the source notes as coming from a 1962 biography. Rebecca Stefoff's Charles Darwin: And the Evolution Revolution (Oxford Univ., 1996) is more fluid and easier to read, and Deborah Heiligman's Charles and Emma (Holt, 2009) is a well-researched and engaging biography with a stronger focus on Darwin's life and relationships. A more useful volume for researchers is Patrick H. Armstrong's All Things Darwin: An Encyclopedia of Darwin's World (Greenwood, 2007).—Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA

Gr 4–8—Forty-nine poems describe nearly as many occupations, several of them nontraditional—ice sculptor, acrobat, bridge painter, belly dancer. As in his previous collections, Lewis has included a variety of styles: rhyming pairs, quatrain, limerick, series of rhyming words. His talent for tongue-in-cheek wordplay ("I give my bulldog a quick/Tug-of-warning!"—"Dog Trainer"), illustrative description ("A sixty-mile-an-hour mole/On automatic cruise control"—"Subway Driver"), and alternative format such as poetic conversation in two voices ("Ventriloquist" and "Morning Talk-Show Hosts") show youngsters that poetry can take many forms. Bloch's digital collage illustrations appear to be black-ink or marker doodles of various sizes, many filled in with color and others enhanced with wrinkled paper, yarn, plastic eyes, bits of cloth, or realia mentioned in the accompanying poems. Their bright colors; odd little details; and, in some instances, childlike appearance add tremendous appeal to the selections. This finely crafted, entertaining volume should find a place in most collections.—Susan Scheps, Shaker Heights Public Library, Ohio

Gr 4–6—The overview of the multiheaded water beast of Greek myth focuses almost equally on the legendary Hercules and his trials. Stories about the Hydra as well as other sea monsters in world myths and legends are included as are their representations in science, art, literature, and popular culture. While the "scary" font that heads up the sections is unappealing and the layout is sloppy in sections, the photographs and illustrations enhance the text. Cerberus offers an overview of the myths from around the world in which monster dogs appear, and discusses the influence of Cerberus in literature, science, and popular culture from Dante to Harry Potter. Redmond does a good job of opening readers' minds to imaginative questioning, such as when examining the large-black-dog lore in Great Britain and the United States. There is a good array of art and photographs that relate to Cerberus, though, unfortunately, the format doesn't do justice to the text. The graphics look as though they were slapped down on the pages without much thought. While the text is good as an overview, some of the myths are incomplete to the point that they might be misleading to children who are new to the study of Greek myths.—Farida S. Dowler, formerly at Mercer Island Library, WA

Gr 8 Up—Complex factors are involved in any discussion of climate change, and although it is considered the most threatening of all concerns involving our planet, the variety of opinions and studies available to students can be confusing. This work attempts to provide information on the possible causes of global warming, the current and future effects, and solutions, and considers ways to prepare for the inevitable. Although the author repeatedly affirms that the vast majority of scientists and studies confirm ongoing warming, she does give many opportunities for deniers to voice their opinions. General information regarding solar, wind, and geothermal energy is included, as is the usual list of personal-habit changes that may, if followed worldwide, alleviate or defer the problem. The text seems somewhat dated in the discussions of Bush administration ideas being current policy and has no discussion of the effects of agribusiness and methane on global warming. The annotated bibliography is up-to-date to 2007.—Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

Gr 3 Up—Rosen and Fellows present an appealing introduction to 24 common North American birds by melding poetry, field notes, and gorgeous watercolor artwork. The spare haiku verses are seasonally arranged and zero in on the avian subjects' distinctive characteristics that make them easy to identify, mainly their color, behavior, or song. The telegraphed verbal imagery is then expanded and enriched by the artist's deeply saturated naturalistic paintings. For example, "outside your window/the first mowers of spring? No…/hummingbirds are back!" shows the male and female rubythroats in larger-than-life splendor, and their "fast, squeaky chipping," as well as "the hum/buzz of their wings' vibration." This lovely volume has numerous curricular connections but basically it is a little gem to pore over and to foster an appreciation for the sights and sounds of nature.—Luann Toth, School Library Journal

Gr 8 Up—In this collection of poems, Salinger attempts to communicate both the connotation and denotation of 51 words readers might find on high-school-level standardized tests. He begins each poem with a vocabulary word and then describes its attributes as if it were a character or person: "Circuitous is one to avoid shortcuts/or any sort of straight line/he's not worried about the direct route/or trying to save any time…." Each entry is about a dozen lines long and some rhyme. There is little attempt at meter or rhythm. Adjectives, nouns, and verbs are personified in the same manner, with some assigned female pronouns and others male pronouns. The poems are mildly amusing and give readers an idea of how the word might be used, but many have little intrinsic poetic merit. Salinger includes a short, informal definition of the word at the bottom of each page, but does not indicate pronunciation or part of speech. The book is illustrated with simple humorous line drawings that help to illustrate the meaning of the featured words. Although the idea of using poetry to teach vocabulary is a good one, the execution here leaves something to be desired. For a more entertaining study aid, try Arianne Cohen and Colleen Kinder's Confessions of a High School Word Nerd (Penguin, 2007), in which a variety of authors use advanced vocabulary in humorous stories about high school life.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 9 Up—San Francisco's American Conservatory Theater's (A.C.T.) New Plays Program has produced many fine plays by both world-renowned playwrights and those not so well-known, and this volume proves the program's continued success. The eight plays have diverse settings and themes, which range from Constance Congdon's Moontel Six, about the consequences of cloning set on a futuristic moon, to Sharman Macdonald's Broken Hallelujah, a one-act play about young Civil War soldiers. While the quality of the writing does vary somewhat, Slaight has assembled a collection of plays worthy of production in both schools and theaters.—Betty S. Evans, Missouri State University, Springfield

Gr 4–8—Smith offers another loosely narrative collection of free-verse poems in the same vein as The Way a Door Closes (2003) and Keeping the Night Watch (2008, both Holt). "All other superheroes are just pretenders to/the throne/because I have the ultimate superhero,/the one with eyes in the back of her head." From "In Her Shoes" to "Imitation" to "Sleepover," Smith uses details of daily life to conjure a speaker who loves her mother with the sincerity and sense of humor of any lucky child. But when the mother dies, the poems become fiercer, funnier, and more bittersweet as the speaker measures her new world. "Rule #1": "You don't learn it in school,/but it's true just the same:/You can't get mad at dead people./You have to yell at your sister/or your dad or your best friend because/the person you're really mad at/isn't here./Won't ever be here again./I get mad just thinking about it." Smith's paper collage illustrations warm the white space without overcrowding. The faceless figures show emotion in their postures, and the paper patterns and textures give them vivid presence. A photo of baby Smith with her mother and a dedication to a different "Ma" lead readers to suspect that these poems are autobiographical, but it's the author's talent with voice and image that make them real. Each one stands alone, and several would be appropriate for Mother's Day recitation, but the collection has a depth in character growth that lingers and brings readers back to savor moments again and again. Pair this volume with Nikki Grimes's What Is Goodbye? (Hyperion, 2004).—Nina Lindsay, Oakland Public Library, CA

Gr 4–7—Combining song lyrics and double-page illustrations, this book gives a romanticized depiction of wild mustangs. From the somber scene of the Spanish horses traveling to the New World in the dark hull of a ship to a present-day herd roaming through the Pryor Mountains of Montana, the oil paintings and La Primera's first-person narrative capture dramatic moments in the lives of these noble and powerful creatures. The artist's palette ranges from chiaroscuro tones to the pastel background of the western range. The poem empathetically expresses La Primera's imagined perspective on the history of wild mustangs, beginning with his voyage in 1493. The song does work as a free-verse poem supported by quality images. A brief history of the mustangs is included at the end and lends a sharp reality to this story. This unconventional approach to discovering the unique contributions and adventures of these wild horses should prove to be an appealing addition to collections.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 3–7—Vogt introduces the basic structure of tropical rain forests and discusses features of the various layers. He considers a variety of plants and focuses on several examples, including the strangler fig and rafflesia. He also notes the serious environmental damage caused by the destruction of the forests. The second half of the volume places selected rain forest animals "in focus." Basic facts about each of them accompany a small world map with the animals' location noted. A grid along the page's edge indicates the layer(s) of the forests in which the animal spends most of its time. Striking visuals, a hallmark of the series, will grab readers' attention. Vertical as well as horizontal spreads create additional visual interest. Vogt includes a glossary and index but no list of resources. With plenty of eye appeal, the book will attract browsers and offer a colorful update for collections needing additional material on the topic.—Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Gr 8 Up—Young adults live in a world that offers them more choices, and more challenges, than they can possibly process without some confusion and frustration. Weinstein offers them some guidance in this accessible and practical guide. At the start of the book, he outlines five "life principles," encompassing simple ideas such as honesty and compassion, which he then applies to various hypothetical situations. The situations run the gamut from school issues, sports, friends, and dating to Internet use and drugs. The author creates realistic scenarios in which many kids may find themselves. His advice repeatedly refers back to the life principles, maintaining a consistent reference point for readers. He closes the book by encouraging them to find another person, whether it be a parent, another close adult, or a religious mentor, with whom to discuss their problems. The approachable tone of the book and the realistic scenarios make this a good choice for those teens who need some advice about how to deal with all that they face in their daily lives.—Carol Fazioli, Gwynedd-Mercy College, Gwynedd Valley, PA

Gr 3–6—Weitzman recounts the construction of a boat made for the Pharaoh Cheops and discusses its rediscovery and restoration in the 20th century. He weaves the history, texts, mythology, and customs of ancient Egypt into an effective narrative, drawing readers in through the processes used to build the vessel, which the Egyptians believed would guide Cheops to the afterlife. This step-by-step presentation breathes life into the history, shedding light on the motives and methods employed by the craftsmen. In addition, the author records the accomplishments of Egyptologist Ahmed Youssef Moustafa, revealing his passion and problem-solving abilities, such as visiting local boat builders in an attempt to decipher how to reconstruct the artifacts. The volume's stylized illustrations are inspired by the two-dimensional depictions from ancient Egyptian art. The paintings' earth tones, accentuated by bright greens and blues, are both appropriate for the subject matter and pleasing to the eye; the boat becomes more complete with each turn of the page. Finally, foldout pages reveal the pharaoh's boat in full restoration. Visual aids clarify the use and function of a toggle, an adze, a bow drill, etc. Pharaoh's Boat offers a unique glimpse into a common activity in ordinary ancient Egyptian life (boat building) instead of being just another book about mummies and pyramids.—Jeff Meyer, Slater Public Library, IA

Gr 4–7—This collection of three dozen free verse poems explores a wide variety of jobs, from dog walker to deputy. Zimmer's attitudes about the jobs are candid and varied. For example, about the exterminator, she states, "It may not be glamorous,/but it is steady—/with some critter/forever trying/to live rent-free!" As in Sketches from a Spy Tree (2005) and 42 Miles (2008, both Clarion), Zimmer makes no attempt at meter, rhyme, or regular poetic structure. The poems are simply well-worded descriptions that are insightful and clever. "The tow truck driver/fishes in the city:/a taxi/a sports car/and a minivan—/three keepers/reeled in/before breakfast." Each poem is printed on a full-page mixed-media collage set against textured, colored backgrounds. The paper cutouts, photographs, and drawings are interesting and match the topics of the poems, but the muddy backgrounds give the pages an unsettled appearance. Teachers could use this collection as a literary component for a unit on careers, but children aren't likely to pick it up on their own because of the subject matter and dully colored illustrations.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT