Grades 5 & Up

Gr 4–7—Alex, 13, and his sister, Jill, 15, are spending several weeks at Camp Fossil Eyes, which specializes in expeditions, but the fossils that the campers dig up are words rather than plants or animals. The story is comprised of alternating emails from Alex and Jill, in which they describe their daily activities to their parents, and memos from the camp staff. Through them, readers learn the origins of the various words whose fossils have been discovered that day. One day involves an expedition to Indigenous Ridge; next, the campers travel to Old English Hill or French Mountain or Nordic Spur. Alex's enthusiasm and Jill's derision are overblown to the point of caricature. Jill's counselor takes it upon herself to write to her parents: "My hunch is that she's trying to punish you for moving and taking her away from her home and her old friends. Maybe she also thinks she might appear uncool if she let herself have fun like everybody else…." The staff relies strongly on email: even when Jill disappears during a hike into the Indo-European Wastelands, the director and the counselor keep Mr. and Mrs. Boswell apprised of the search via email. Cartoon illustrations cannot lighten the didactic tone of the correspondences. Abley's passion for etymology is evident, and he weaves some truly fascinating facts into his narrative. The sad reality, though, is that very few students will have the patience to stick with his far-fetched premise, clumsy plot, and two-dimensional characters.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 5–8—In a journalistic format, 12-year-old Josh writes about coping with his mother's death. His father has completely given up parenting, leaving Josh in charge of his four-year-old brother, Sam, and all of the household duties. Instead, he attempts to build a time machine to go back in time and prevent his wife's death (she had an accident when startled by a snake in her car), and his brother seems intent on channeling his mother's spirit through a toy Power Ranger. Through his own process, Josh delves into the mourning rituals of various faiths and cultures, seeking structure through which to make sense of the world as it exists after his mother. Throughout the tale, even as Josh takes on responsibilities to reinstate the structure and cohesion of his family unit, he is plagued by the mystery of how the snake got into his ophidiophobic mother's car. Throughout his emotional journey, Josh's voice is both natural and believable. Austen is both unsentimental and unapologetic in her employment of precise and elegant prose, and the complicated and often humorous reactions to grieving practices lend themselves to an enjoyable read.—Joanie Terrizzi, New York City Public Schools

Gr 8–10—Veronica Severance misses Starbucks, shopping, and school, but her mom's Patchwork Inn is a local hit and the rest of her family seems to be flourishing since their move to rural Oregon. Miserable, Ronnie finds comfort in two things—running and her young neighbor, Karen, for whom she babysits. The 10-year-old is an inquisitive explorer who can turn the most mundane task into an adventure. Despite their differences, the two become fast friends. Then Karen's body is found in the river and Ronnie is left alone and lost. Struggling to understand her place in this new world, she sets out to discover what happened to the child and learns that the darkness of the city might not be so far away after all. Beaufrand has written an engaging mystery, but the story's real strength and beauty come from the healing nature of family and unexpected friendships. Teens will easily empathize with Ronnie's displacement, but hopefully will learn the same lesson: sometimes the things we want aren't the things we need.—Terri Clark, Smoky Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 9 Up—This collection of 12 short stories is sure to satisfy readers who crave something magical. Black's got all the supernatural bases covered: vampires, fairies, an elf, a unicorn, wolves, the devil, and a spell-wielding high school Latin club. Included is a tale of a boy tempted to eat a flower that he's read can turn him into a werewolf, as well as a story set in a world where vampirism is like an infectious disease and a girl resists the urge for blood by numbing her desire with alcohol. All but two of the stories have appeared elsewhere, including in Deborah Noyes's The Restless Dead (Candlewick) and David Levithan and Daniel Ehrenhaft's 21 Proms (Scholastic, both 2007). Although they are often centered on bleak, dark characters, the pieces inspire hope, are touching and delightful, and even turn the most ghoulish characters into feeling beings. Some sexual situations and mature settings make this a collection for older teens.—Shawna Sherman, Hayward Public Library, CA

Gr 5–8—Although Liam Digby is a typical kid who loves World of Warcraft video games and theme-park rides, his physical appearance is closer to age 30 than 12. Looking like an adult is challenging, but it can be useful. He learns about an experimental project to create the ultimate thrill ride—sending a select group of kids into space. He figures that he has no chance to be one of the chosen youngsters, so he decides to apply as the in-flight father chaperone. After recruiting his friend Florida to pose as his daughter, Liam has to compete with three other candidates to get the job. Although he has brushed up on his "dad skills," it isn't always easy to stay in character. The men are pompous, boring—and not above cheating to get ahead. Meanwhile, Florida has very firm notions of how her "dad" ought to behave and she isn't sure that Liam measures up. Eventually, the project director selects Liam for the space flight, precisely because of his "childlike quality," and the project kids start to look to him as a father figure—even Florida. Then, when an accident sends the rocket out of control, Liam has to assume the adult responsibility of getting them all back safely. Beneath the entertaining science-fiction adventure is a strong theme of individual maturity. While the real grown-ups are self-centered and childish, Liam takes charge with surprisingly mature courage. Readers will appreciate the sharp, realistic, and very funny dialogue as well as Liam's technique of solving real-world problems using his role-playing-game expertise.—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Gr 5–7—Half-great describes this book rather well. Caldwell bases this work on the folk stories and more classic tales of Irish hero Finn mac Cuhail. These elements of the story are strong, but the tale suffers when he brings in other folklore or ventures off on his own. He introduces Ymir and frost giants from Norse mythology, a Cyclops, a Japanese tengu, Leviathan (in the role of the Loch Ness monster), even an "Escape Goat" and a turducken. They all feel out of place, and the sheer number of characters introduced prohibits most of them from having any depth. The true foes of the story are mortal men, most notably a Jack the Giant-Killer figure who orchestrates the kidnapping of Finn's wife, Oonagh. Finn and his allies seek her out, guided by the sometimes-bizarre advice of minor characters. Caldwell writes action well, despite his odd propensity for having his characters trip and fall, but his dialogue veers from folksy to odd faux proverbs. Gerald Morris's "Squire's Tales" series (Houghton) does a much better job of reimagining folklore from the British Isles with humor and excitement. Robert Byrd retells the initial story of Finn and Oonagh's encounter with Cucullin in his picture book, Finn MacCoul and His Fearless Wife (Dutton, 1999), and includes a pronunciation guide and source notes as well.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 10 Up—Deftly striking just the right balance between the horror of the supernatural and the reality of human nature gone awry, Possessed will keep readers turning the pages. Rayne is stifled—by the oppressive summer heat and endless noise of her impoverished London neighborhood, by her controlling boyfriend, and by her mother's demands. Sick of it all, she decides to take a job as a waitress at a historic estate in a faraway village. Rumors of ghastly events throughout its long history surround Morton's Keep, and a feeling of genuine terror overwhelms Rayne when she enters the house. Yet fear, ghost hunters, and odd fire rituals cannot keep her from loving the peace of the wilderness far away from the city. When she meets up with a local clique led by mysterious and attractive St. John, she becomes even more enthralled. Yet the more involvement she has with him, the more his increasingly dark and disturbing behavior frightens her. Ultimately, a horrifying revelation leads Rayne down a secret passage into a hidden cellar where she discovers the whole truth in a truly frightening ending. Cann sidesteps the common pitfalls that plague many horror stories, including predictability and incredulity. She has created an interesting juxtaposition between the dangers of living in a hardscrabble urban environment and the terror of living in a spiritually possessed country estate. Artful writing and well-developed characters help the story flow seamlessly. A highly readable and wonderfully frightening tale.—Tara Kehoe, Plainsboro Public Library, NJ

Gr 3–6—Carroll's unabridged text is accompanied by abundant illustrations that will draw readers into the tale. In fact, the eye-catching volume—with its pleasing autumn-hued palette, an illustration on almost every spread, and pages that organically merge text with visual images—is designed so that the narrative and artwork propel the story in equal measure. Each chapter is introduced by a colorful full-bleed painting depicting events to come. Copious single- and double-page illustrations and smaller insets, some in full-color and some in monochromatic tones, appear throughout the book, adding detail to the adventure and underscoring its emotional impact. Filled with soft textures and dramatic shadowing, Ingpen's artwork blends realism with whimsy. While Wonderland looks much like the English countryside and the characters have a Victorian air about them, shifting viewpoints and playful perspectives keep the mood fanciful. An endnote about "The Original Alice" and reproductions of Carroll's manuscript are appended. An inviting layout and plentiful artwork make this book a good choice for independent readers who may need a bit of encouragement, as well as for one-on-one sharing with younger children.—Joy Fleishhacker, School Library Journal

Gr 6 Up—Elegant book design and sophisticated artwork characterize this unabridged version of Carroll's classic. Lipchenko's illustrations, in monochromatic sepia and black-and-white tones, combine precisely drawn detail with broad architectural perspectives. Chapters are introduced by full-page pieces that convey plot particulars in a sometimes abstract and visually interpretive manner. For example, "The Pool of Tears" illustration depicts a large eye at the center of a snail-shell-style swirl with a stream of tears accumulating beneath. Each of these atmospheric works is surrounded by an intricate border, artfully composed of plot-related images, structural details, and gracefully draped swaths of curtain. These design elements also appear throughout the pages, framing and providing nimble connections between the various illustrations. Ever-changing perspectives, dramatic shadowing and shading, and layouts that have an Escheresque quality make the artwork remarkable and innovative, though geared toward a more mature audience. The relationship between the text and pictures offers much room for exploration and interpretation. This unusual work should be considered only for deep Alice collections.—Joy Fleishhacker, School Library Journal

Gr 4–8—Matthews, well known for his work in sci-fi and fantasy realms, turns his attention to Carroll's classic. His illustrations, which vary between single- and double-page full-color airbrushed paintings and smaller sepia-toned vignettes, have an imagination-stretching, otherworldly veneer. Rich in purple and green hues, the cartoon artwork portrays an Alice with a somewhat angular face and straight blond hair. The depictions of the other characters are fresh and creative, as each familiar figure is festooned with delightfully exaggerated features, kinetic lines, and jewel-toned costuming. The paintings have a fine-art quality to them, and the grandiose scenes provide much detail and action for readers to explore and enjoy. Card-suit motifs appear in both the handsome book design and within the illustrations themselves. Unfortunately, some of the double-page artwork gets lost in the book's gutter. Matthews admits to suggesting "a wider visual arena for the story, including a space scene and the Palace of Hearts (not mentioned by Carroll)." The consistency of artistic vision and quality of the illustrations make this re-interpretation a success. The small-size type, which may demand more accomplished or patient readers, and the sophisticated visual tone make this volume appropriate for older Alice fans.—Joy Fleishhacker, School Library Journal

Gr 5–8—The Sisters of Charity of the Guardian Angel Convent in Budapest saved the lives of more than 100 Jewish children during World War II. Based on the experiences of her mother and aunt, Clark provides a compelling, fictionalized account documenting the courage and compassion of these nuns. Through the connections of their mother's childhood friend, Isi, a Catholic, 12-year-old Susan and her 6-year-old sister, Vera, are taken to the convent after their father is sent to a labor camp. They join other Jewish girls in hiding and quickly adapt to their new life. Their days are filled with prayer, chores, studies, and recreation. The nuns respect Jewish traditions, allowing the girls to light the Sabbath and Hanukkah candles and to conduct a Passover Seder, but they also teach them the rites and customs of Catholicism—both out of respect and for protection. And, when Budapest is under attack, the nuns create a shelter in the crypt beneath the church, risking their own lives to protect the girls from bombs and Nazi raids. Miraculously, Susan and Vera are reunited with their parents, who survived the war through the aid of Raoul Wallenberg, and again with the help of Isi, the family immigrates to Canada. Black-and-white photographs and an afterword help to bring the story and history to life. This is a touching and heartwarming tribute to the Righteous Gentiles of the Guardian Angel House and a highly readable, accessible resource to introduce students to the Holocaust.—Rachel Kamin, North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, Highland Park, IL

Gr 6–8—This series launches the adventures of small and bullied 12-year-old Tommy Bomani. He sets off with his friends on dangerous quests searching for missing pieces of a magical Egyptian statue that grants eternal life and power to the owner and that the evil wizard Badru wants to steal. In Shape-Shifter, he discovers his inherited ability to morph into a cat at lightning speed. From his elderly and mystical mentor, he learns about a prophecy foretelling that he is "the warrior destined to save the world from the evil of Badru." The suspense builds in Land of Legend as Tommy and a friend travel to Florida where Tommy meets his cousin who is descended from a werewolf family dedicated to protecting people. In Badru Rising, the search for the statue pieces and battles with the evil wizard continue as Tommy and his friends defeat the thug leader, Fisk. The setting for Prophecy Fulfilled is Egypt. Though minor plot contrivances strain credulity, and Tommy's transformations lack the richer descriptions that would bring readers deeper into the experience, the protagonist comes to life on the pages. Additional fare for reluctant readers.—James K. Irwin, Evanston Public Library, IL

Gr 5–8—Eighth-grader Hamlet Kennedy, so named by her slightly obsessed Shakespearean-scholar parents, works hard to be normal and fit in at school. This becomes even more difficult when her genius seven-year-old sister begins attending her middle school. Hamlet offers her guidance and is stung not only when her advice is rejected, but also when Desdemona befriends two mean girls who have picked on Hamlet for years. On top of everything else, her teachers announce a special Shakespeare unit, and Hamlet is assigned the starring role in A Midsummer's Night's Dream. Suddenly, blending into the crowd is no longer an option and she must find the courage to embrace her talent as a Shakespearean performer and her family's quirkiness. Hamlet's narration is charming, and readers will empathize entirely with her embarrassment at both her clueless parents and her wavering between trying to protect her younger sister and allowing her to find out the hard way how to pick friends. Add a bit of romantic intrigue involving mysterious origami pigs and you have an excellent choice for middle school readers.—Caroline Tesauro, Radford Public Library, VA

Gr 4–7—In 1956, calamities galore befall the town of Pitcherville. Everything that is "granular and sprinkleable" turns to cinnamon. Then everything is the color peach—everything, that is, except for the peaches, which are now blue. Cars crash into one another and people bump heads. Twins Rodney and Wayne McCall, 13, whose father has gone missing, team up with a physics teacher to tackle the problem. Professor Johnson believes that the town has turned into some kind of laboratory. He uses his inventions to combat the damage, but things don't go smoothly, and a new disaster makes people's bodies almost 12 years younger. Rodney and Wayne become toddlers, and drastic measures cause a more serious mishap. The boys are fun heroes, and the nutty, eccentric professor is what one would expect in a madcap world. The story's tongue-in-cheek absurdity is charming, and competent readers will love the zany adventures that evolve from a world turned upside down.—Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

Gr 4–7—This picture-book introduction to ratio and proportion also explains the connection between math and music through a story featuring young Pythagoras and his family. Preoccupied by mathematical problems, the protagonist is constantly in trouble with his parents for neglecting his chores. When his cousin Octavius offends everyone's ears with the dissonant pipes he is practicing for an upcoming music contest, the young mathematician hears a challenge. He measures his own set of melodious pipes, calculating the ratio of each pipe to the shortest one, and discovers that Octavius's pipes need to be shortened. Later, he tunes other cousins' lyres by attaching rocks to the strings to adjust the tension. With all the instruments finally ready, the cousins play together at the contest. Unfinished chores and a broken set of pipes leave Pythagoras out of the performance, but the end result is the first "rock" group, which is a big success. The story is amusing and offers a glimpse into life in ancient Greece. Acrylic and colored pencil cartoons depict the clothing and lifestyle of the period in a pleasing palette. A historical note and an experiment in which readers are challenged to use Pythagorean ratios to create a musical instrument with six glasses of water in varying amounts are appended.—Barbara Auerbach, PS 217, Brooklyn, NY

Gr 6–8—Eagan is a serious figure skater and works tirelessly toward her goal of becoming a world champion. Her mother, a caricature of the pushy sports parent, invests all of her frustrated dreams in her daughter's talent, and the 16-year-old, resenting the pressure, clashes with her regularly. Then, one day, Eagan misjudges the landing on a triple lutz, hits her head against the side of the rink, and dies. Her strong, athletic heart ends up in the chest of 14-year-old Amelia, a victim of congestive heart failure. The physical and spiritual connection between the two girls, who narrate in alternating chapters, forms the basis of this sweet but somewhat melodramatic story. Things move in a strange direction as Amelia begins to feel her personality changing in response to Eagan's heart. Suddenly she is talking back to her mother and thinking about figure skating, as if Eagan's heart were somehow influencing her behavior and thoughts. Predictably, Amelia feels compelled to find out more about her donor and eventually gets in touch with Eagan's parents. The result is an unsatisfactory reconciliation between Eagan's mother and Eagan's ghost, through the medium of Amelia. It would be touching if it weren't so absurd.—Emma Burkhart, Springside School, Philadelphia, PA

Gr 9–11—Penny Lane Bloom is stung by love and vows to give up boys and dating for the rest of her high school days. She and her older sisters, Lucy (in the Sky with Diamonds) and (Lovely) Rita grew up with parents who were huge Beatles fans so it's no surprise that Penny calls her no-dating club The Lonely Hearts Club. There are lots of fun references to the Fab Four throughout the book. Now unfettered by the rules of high school dating and courtship, Penny is free to be, and enjoy, herself. Other girls notice her burgeoning self-confidence and her infectious joie de vivre. They want to join the club too, so what began as one girl's personal rebellion becomes a school-wide revolution. Formal rules strictly forbid dating, so when swearing off boys doesn't work and Penny meets her match, she has to keep the relationship on the q.t. Eventually club rules are amended and dating is permitted, but with the caveat that friends come first, so no ditching your girls just because a guy calls at the last minute. The plot is fairly predictable, but it moves along at a quick enough pace to hold readers' interest. The story is a gentle reminder to girls who may fall head over heels and sometimes jeopardize solid friendships for a romantic relationship. Fortunately, Eulberg injects the right amount of humor so the message doesn't come across as too heavy-handed.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA

Gr 5–7—Thirteen-year-old Chili Sue Mahoney lives with her parents and brother in the hills of Kentucky. Within months, her married and pregnant sister moves back home, an orphaned cousin comes to stay, and an old uncle takes up residence in the attic. The little house is full to overflowing, and Chili dreams of far-flung adventures. But in 1975, folks don't leave Mercy Hill. While they may disparage their more poverty-ridden neighbors, at least the "welfares" can be trusted more than those citified Northerners. Even old Miss Matlock, who left when she was young and eventually came back, is viewed with suspicion as an outsider. Chili, however, is thrilled when the teacher is assigned to her seventh-grade classroom: finally, she can learn from someone who has seen the world. Miss Matlock's accounts of her travels open up new possibilities for her, but as the teen discovers more about the woman's early life, she has to question whether her actions were truly courageous or remarkably self-centered. Chili is a likable protagonist, and her descriptions of family and friends make them fully realized characters in their own right. The glimpses into seemingly mundane events allow readers to realize how much she has grown in her relationships. Give this appealing novel to those who enjoy the poignancy and lyricism in Barbara O'Connor's or Deborah Wiles's work.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 7 Up—Finn is a denizen of Incarceron, a sentient prison in which generations of inmates struggle and fight for survival. Finn, however, is certain he comes from somewhere else. A strange tattoo and vague memories have convinced him that he comes from Outside. Claudia is the daughter of the Warden of Incarceron. Technology has been outlawed and society returned to a feudal time replete with rules, including arranged marriages. When the Queen and Claudia's father conspire to have her impending marriage to the heir moved forward, Claudia vows to do whatever it takes to avoid her fate. Finn and Claudia both acquire mysterious crystal keys that allow them to communicate, and it begins to be clear that each may be the other's way out. On the surface, Incarceron is a fast-paced if dense adventure that pits Finn against the prison and his fellow prisoners and Claudia against her father, her fiancé, and her society. If that were all, it would be a truly excellent fantasy novel. By delving into the philosophy of imprisonment and the development of society; discussing how history informs the present; and exploring self-awareness and sentience in nonhuman characters, Incarceron becomes something of a tour de force. The history of both Incarceron and Era are explored through excerpts from imagined legends and archival documents at the start of each chapter. The novel's length and complex plot may be daunting to some, but fans of steampunk and epic fantasy alike will be anxiously flipping pages and awaiting the sequel, already released in the U.K.—Karen E. Brooks-Reese, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 5–8—After seeking the advice of the Oracle of Delphi, he returns to Sparta to find the Council of Elders ready to send the boys from his barracks off to take back the invaded colony of Taras. Lysander is sure that he will find his destiny there. In the end, he discovers where he came from and that Spartans are not so different from him. Though the story can be read on its own, frequent references to happenings in past books makes reading the series in order a better choice. Those with weak stomachs should be forewarned of the sometimes graphic violence as Ford goes into great detail during the battle scenes. For the most part, however, his attention to detail enhances this story with historical context, painting a vivid and accurate picture of life in ancient Sparta. An exciting, bloody adventure, but also a solid piece of historical fiction.—Clare A. Dombrowski, Amesbury Public Library, MA

Gr 9 Up—Rejecting the traditional conflation of Mary Magdalene with unnamed sinful women in the Gospels, Gormley evokes an anguished teenager healed by controversial Rabbi Yeshua. Mariamne tells her own story: a happy childhood with her doting merchant father, a thrilling first love, the melodramatically simultaneous loss of her father and fiancé. To recoup her family's finances, Mari unhappily weds a nasty old man and, relentlessly undermined by a domestic rival, eventually retreats into her voice-filled imagination. Gormley makes Mari a skilled narrator, strategically planting details that will reappear later on and briefly introducing the stories of Miriam and Esther. Mari's character is a human mixture of willfulness, weakness, needs, and gifts; her spirit-possession is convincing, her cluelessness about her rival, less so. Five parallel third-person chapters follow the moral development of Matthew, a despised tax-collector's son: he has his own familial and social losses, and their threads entwine. Yeshua appears in the last third of the novel, which ends as Mari and Matthew join his followers. Fast paced and vivid, the novel will appeal most strongly to Christians, but other readers will find the portrait of a person, and a time, memorably real.—Patricia D. Lothrop, St. George's School, Newport, RI

Gr 8 Up—When Ross was alive, he talked about creating great stories by living life to the fullest. He did not get to live his life very fully, but his dreams were big. One was to travel to his "namesake"—Ross, Scotland. After his funeral, which his best friends Kenny, Blake, and Sim deem unworthy of him, the three teens decide to kidnap his ashes and take them on a road trip from northern England to the small Scottish town. The boys are grieving and trying to honor their friend's memory, but things go increasingly wrong on the two-day trip and instead of turning around and calling for help, they keep moving forward, ignoring all sense, making bad moves at every turn. Although it concerns death and grief, the story is never heavy-handed; Gray offers plenty of humor and grace. Understanding of the boys grows with the story; they come to know themselves better, as readers do. Gray's writing is cheeky, crisp, and realistic. He has created funny, bright characters whom readers cannot help but root for. They act impulsively, but their actions come from the heart. At the end of their trip and of the book, things are not tied up neatly, but resolution is hinted at. This is a smart, touching novel with an ending that packs an emotional wallop.—Geri Diorio, The Ridgefield Library, CT

Gr 6–8—Oas, a typical teenage alien female from the planet Zorca-twenty-three, is sent to Earth as a teenage girl to retrieve her younger brother, Ralb, who is masquerading there as a boy of the same age. Oas views herself as a typical girl—with beautiful antennas, three eyes, and bumpy skin. She has a sarcastic talking flower as a pet and a loyal best friend, who just happens to be a Venus flytrap. During her adventures in a small town she manages to eat pizza, and, with disastrous results, popcorn; gains a human boyfriend who doesn't mind that his girlfriend is really an alien bug; and saves her new friends from an environmental disaster. This inventive and humorous tale combines references to alien abductions, Area 51, beauty salons, teenage angst, and environmental concerns in a plausible and thoroughly enjoyable way.—Margaret Auguste, Franklin Middle School, Somerset, NJ

Gr 8–10—After Lacey Mann's father dies in a car accident, her mother becomes absorbed in her work, her younger brother seldom speaks, and her older brother turns to alcohol. Unlike her family, Lacey stays strong, becoming the responsible adult of the house. Her social responsibility translates to school where she establishes a club for students who have also lost a parent. The club creates a place for these teens to just hang out and feel normal, as well as to share their experiences, and she's surprised when her new boyfriend shows up and informs the group that his father is dead. While the book's message is sincere, the execution is stereotypical at best. Lacey's thoughts and interactions make her a one-dimensional character. At some points she surrounds herself only with others who have deceased parents, isolating her story from reality. Higher-quality, timeless books with superior plots and character development cover the same subject matter.—Mary-Brook J. Todd, The Ensworth School, Nashville, TN

Gr 6–9—Eighth-grader Roy Morelli is looking forward to playing on an elite all-star baseball team as a means of impressing the high school coach and enhancing his chances of starting on the varsity as a freshman. When his history grade slips, however, his parents make him drop down to a less competitive, less demanding rec-league team, where none of the other players seem to care about winning. Roy alienates his teammates with his aggressive style and know-it-all attitude and gets in trouble at home for his continued apathetic approach toward his studies. When his divorced father's girlfriend becomes his tutor, Roy is initially resentful, but eventually comes to appreciate the way she makes history come alive. He is able to apply the lessons he has learned both to improve his history grade and to mend relationships with his teammates. While somewhat predictable, the novel features good characterization and some sizzling dialogue, especially between Roy and his frenemy, Valerie Hopkins. The game action is fast paced and exciting, the depiction of middle school dynamics rings true, and the main character shows genuine emotional growth over the course of the novel.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT

Gr 5–7—Hildebrandt has created the world of Brystal, alive with mice, rats, bats, frogs, and other critters. Young Crycket and Sylan embark on a series of adventures that have them shooting back and forth across the land like a pair of pinballs, meeting assorted mysterious characters, facing various foes, and living through near constant peril and combat. The field of rodent stories has a long history and has only grown in recent years. This book pales in comparison. There are grammatical errors and poor word choices throughout, with some sentences virtually unintelligible. The characters are bad-tempered and disagreeable much of the time. Then there are the villains. The plotting and betrayal by these creatures is so convoluted that it is difficult to keep track of their allegiances. The illustrations are fairly well done but can't save this story. For a rodent-filled tale with some humor to complement the frightening bits, recommend Terry Pratchett's The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents (HarperCollins, 2001). Suggest Raymond Feist's Magician Apprentice (Marvel, 2007) for a story of two boys thrust into a fantasy adventure. Give this one a pass.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 4–7—Highly unusual situations and eccentric, individualistic characters fill this quirky sequel to My One Hundred Adventures (Random, 2008). Jane, the oldest of four children, narrates her family's escapades as they go off in search of their stepdad's long-lost brother. Because of Ned's job as a French teacher, the family was reluctantly transplanted from their seaside home in Massachusetts to Saskatchewan. As this story begins, Ned is fired when it is discovered that he doesn't know French. Jane's somewhat mature musings about family life and Horvath's rich prose and characterization breathe life into this humorous and poignant tale. Though basically irresponsible, Ned is likable in spite of his limited parenting skills. He has been out of touch with his own mother and sisters for 20 years. Maya, Jane's eight-year-old sister, suffers from the unstable family life, a problem that Jane seems to notice more than anyone else. Their mother is the epitome of patience and denial. When Ned is called to the bedside of Mary, an elderly Native American who helped him 20 years earlier, the family travels from Saskatchewan to New Brunswick. Ned discovers that his brother, a Las Vegas magician, has left a bag of money with her. Suspicions abound about its origins. Ned's quest to find his brother leads him to his mother's ranch in Nevada and myriad complications. Horvath once again writes with the humor, compassion, and sensitivity that keep readers turning pages. Underlying all the adventures is the longing for elusive true family life.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 10 Up—Colt and Julia are keeping their relationship a secret: his wrong-side-of-the-tracks (or in this case, wrong part of the mountain) friends would have thought he was a sellout, and her rich friends would have accused her of slumming. No one would have understood, especially not Julia's wealthy boyfriend. But when she dies in a car accident, the distance that always existed between the secret couple becomes unbearable. Colt stays quiet about his connection to Julia, and consequently about his profound grief. When Julia's brother gives him the diary she kept during the clandestine relationship, he begins to better understand her true feelings, her intentions, and her struggles. Though it becomes clear that her attraction to him was genuine, not all of the insight that he gains is positive. As he struggles to move forward, he is caught between two worlds: the intensity of his secret past and the promise of a more honest future, neither of which feels entirely real. In this provocative debut novel, the relationship described—told in flashbacks and journal entries—is both tortured and electric, the teens as perfect together as they are absolutely wrong for one another. A few clichéd lines mar an otherwise satisfying tale of a powerful emotional connection amid the realities and pressures of a deep-seated socioeconomic divide.—Jennifer Miskec, Longwood University, Farmville, VA

Gr 9 Up—This rich, psychological mystery opens with 17-year-old Neily Monroe standing on the bridge where, a year earlier, he found Carly Ribelli's body. Having gone from being her best friend to her boyfriend to a piece of detritus she left in her wake, it's no surprise that he is having trouble "getting over" Carly's murder. Nonetheless, he is determined to somehow make it through high school and move on. Then the school year starts and Neily is approached by Carly's cousin, Audrey. Since her father was convicted of the murder, Neily is surprised that she would come back to school. As it turns out, she is there to find out who really murdered Carly, and she is determined to have his help. The narrative alternates between the teens' perspectives, though Neily's voice—sarcastic and insightful—is the stronger of the two. The portrayal of the cliquey private high school is familiar but not clichéd. A satisfying story from a promising new author.—Eliza Langhans, Hatfield Public Library, MA

Gr 7–10—Dane the Defiant and his gang of young warriors, having defeated Thidrek the Terrifying and returned the Hammer of Thor to its rightful owner in RuneWarriors (HarperCollins, 2008), now must deal with the fact that gratitude can be short-lived. The villagers are blaming them for everything from limited food supplies and torrential rain to armpit lice. Dane's summons to the fortress of King Eldred to receive his father's final legacy arrives at just the right time. But the legacy itself comes with a dreadful curse that puts the lives of his mother and friends in mortal danger. Angry trolls, warring frost giants, rampaging sea monsters, a reluctant Valkyrie, and the Goddesses of Time make the quest to save his kidnapped mother and stop the evil Godrek from achieving his nefarious goals particularly difficult. Fast-paced and fun, filled with plenty of gross humor (farting, vomiting, and the like) and violence, along with the rather splendid Astrid, girl-warrior, and the hint of a tender romance, this sequel should appeal to many readers. Fans of the first book will enjoy visiting old friends, and newcomers will have no trouble finding their place.—Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Joshua Wynn, 17, is the son of a preacher. As he is constantly reminded by his parents, this means that he represents his family, community, and, most of all, his church. In other words, he had better be good, and he is. But being good all the time can be hard. Joshua has recently been dumped by his girlfriend and feels isolated from his peers. Then his childhood friend comes back to their small, Southern town and his worldview is upended. Madeline is also a preacher's kid, but her interpretation of what that means includes tight, low-cut shirts and purple lipstick. Joshua could never have imagined all these changes in his former best friend. He is instantly smitten and quickly finds himself in over his head. Joshua wants to save Maddie, but first he has to find out what happened to make her act the way she does. This novel is lively and endearing, but also heavy-handed at times. Though the characters are original, they sometimes feel as if they've been set up to illustrate certain points. Teens interested in religious questions may appreciate Joshua's struggle with his spirituality and sense of self.—Eliza Langhans, Hatfield Public Library, MA

Gr 3–6—All Logan wants is a pet for his 10th birthday, but his grandfather is moving in with the family, and his parents feel that adding an animal to the mix would be too much for them to handle. Grandpa is becoming forgetful, and Logan is mortified by his antics and worried that his friends will find out about the man's erratic and embarrassing behavior. To make matters worse, Emily, the new girl at school, seems set on getting Logan in trouble, and his parents and teachers blame him for everything she instigates. As the story progresses, readers watch as Logan begins to understand his grandfather's aging, and the two form a tender double-act, Logan helping Grandpa to remember his life story through photographs, and Grandpa encouraging Logan to work on creative writing instead of telling whoppers to his parents and friends. Jones portrays the relationship delicately, without making the child's realization seem over-the-top. This is a great title to introduce the sensitive topic of living with aging relatives, and Jones does it in charming style. The book is well paced and filled with believable characters and situations. A thoughtful, rewarding read with a totally satisfying resolution.—Alison Donnelly, Collinsville Memorial Public Library, IL

Gr 7–9—Kevin's major interests are baseball and his girlfriend, Mira, in that order. In this warm and funny sequel to Shakespeare Bats Cleanup (Candlewick, 2003), the 14-year-old journals in various poetic forms under the supportive tutelage of his widowed father, who is also a poet. Conflicts include Kevin's increasing distance from Mira and her environmental activism, as well as Dad's relationship with a woman named Anna. A poetry reading introduces Kevin to Amy, but her all-too-perfect boyfriend seems to have a lock on her heart. All's well that ends well, the Bard wrote, and whether readers are meeting Kevin for the first time or have already read the first book, they are likely to enjoy both the accessible story and Kevin's struggles with some demanding poetic structures. And it's very likely they'll be tempted to stretch their own writing in response.—Joel Shoemaker, South East Junior High School, Iowa City, IA

Gr 6–10—Lasky's novel, set in Berlin in 1932, opens with an author's note that provides historical background. Gaby Schramm, 13, is an avid reader of world literature, and annoyed that her math teacher confiscates her books. Her unease grows when brown-shirted SA troops of Hitler's private army start occupying the city, signaling a distinct shift toward repression and anti-Semitism. Gaby's father, an astrophysics professor and colleague of Albert Einstein, is troubled that Einstein's work is labeled "Jewish physics," and Gaby's mother begins to fear for the safety of her Jewish friend, Baba. Although fascinated by her stylish literature teacher, Gaby withdraws from school after Fraulein Hofstadt presses her to join the Hitler Youth. Then her older sister becomes pregnant and plans to marry Karl, whom Gaby suspects of being a Nazi. Even when the family vacates to their summer house on a lake in Caputh, they cannot escape the darkening political climate, while back in Berlin, banned books are burned on a mammoth pyre. With a compelling plot, a strong sense of place, and vivid characters, the novel brings to life Hitler's inexorable rise to power and its impact on an intelligent German family forced to reconsider its loyalties.—Susan W. Hunter, Riverside Middle School, Springfield, VT

Gr 9 Up—Shortly after nine p.m. on a Friday evening in October, things fall apart for six young adults tangled together by drug deals, debts, and greed. The cinematic narrative flashes forward and back and alternates among the various characters' viewpoints over the course of one night. Lerangis's novel demonstrates how one stupid decision can have a wicked snowball effect that leaves everyone asking, "WTF"? Except that, more times than not, the acronym is not used. Fans of David Levithan and Rachel Cohn's Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist (Knoft, 2006) will appreciate this even faster paced, smart-aleck-toned partying misadventure, and the steady action and short chapters will appeal to reluctant readers. The only real downfall is the enigmatic ending. Fortunately, the epilogue, which reads like a movie postscript, more than makes up for that flaw.—Terri Clark, Smoky Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 7 Up—In this sequel to Wondrous Strange (HarperTeen, 2009), Kelley Winslow is trying to move on with her life and acting career while desperately missing Sonny, the changeling guard who stole her heart. Months have passed since the events of the first book, and he is still stuck in the Otherworld "cleaning up" after the Wild Hunt. Back in New York, Kelley is still learning to deal with her new life as Faerie royalty when she encounters a murderous leprechaun in Central Park and is transported to the Otherworld. Readers will delight in the ongoing romance, the glimpses into the Otherworld, and meetings with all four Kings and Queens of Faerie. Shakespeare, however, takes a backseat this time around, even while the Avalon Grande Theatre is the site of the novel's biggest battle. Overall, in the world of Twilight read-alikes, Livingston's novels stand out. Kelley has personality and spunk that Bella and others are missing, and the "star-crossed" romance between Kelley and Sonny is more emotional and genuine than others in this genre.—Lisa Marie Williams, East Gwillimbury Public Library, Holland Landing, Ontario

Gr 6–9—On New Year's Eve, a strange, sickly man approaches 15-year-old Callum Ormond with a warning: someone wants to kill him and it will happen within the next 365 days unless he keeps himself safe. So starts Cal's wild ride in which he is taunted daily by the prospect of his death. So much so, that in a month's time he nearly drowns, is attacked by sharks, is robbed, kidnapped, and more. These events have something to do with his father's death from a mysterious disease and a letter he sent to Cal that hints at a discovery that could make the family rich. But Cal's having a problem deciphering what it all means and he's been forced into hiding. January is the first book in a series reminiscent of the television show 24, and a new book is timed to come out each month. The brisk plot seems even more urgent by chapters that are broken up into time segments—sometimes as little as four minutes—and page numbering that counts down. The nonstop action and brief story will appeal to reluctant readers, but they leave little room for Cal to develop emotionally. In addition, the book ends abruptly, the plot falls flat, and readers will have no clue as to what Cal's father actually found. With so little offered in the first book, curious readers will have to read the next installment, but one wonders if there will be any satisfaction even then or if it's all just a ploy to sell more books.—Shawna Sherman, Hayward Public Library, CA

Gr 9 Up—Just before midnight, Bailey Daley and her three dogs are allowed inside a closed-up cafe to shelter from the driving rain. The proprietor, an employee, and the last customer eye her curiously, wondering what she's doing there in a prom dress and with her pets. Bailey explains that each animal belonged to a different ex-boyfriend. By night's end, she has gained a better understanding of what she requires in a Perfect Boyfriend and that she needs to be honest about who she is in order to land him. Up till now, she has been so desperate for a boyfriend that she's been blind to his flaws, and she has changed to accommodate these character defects. Her shallow need to be partnered is her defining character trait; readers get little sense of her otherwise. The only message readers can take away from this novel is that the way to be happy is to date someone who meets every criterion on Bailey's "Perfect Boyfriend" list. While Mackall follows the teen from her sophomore through senior years, Bailey sounds like someone in her 30s.—Brandy Danner, Wilmington Memorial Library, MA

Gr 5–8—A clunky, didactic science-fiction allegory. Leanna, 13, is studying the Underground Railroad. African slavery is ancient history in this America of 2170, but a new group is enslaved: clones. Leanna gives little thought to their status until her mother is suddenly arrested for ties to The Liberty Bell, a secret clone-liberation organization. Shaken, disbelieving, and afraid for her mother's life at the hands of cruel government captors, the teen asks her mother's friend for help. Using biographs—human replicas similar to holograms—Dr. Ayala introduces past and present figures entrusted with The Liberty Bell's work: Benjamin Franklin, Justice John Marshall Harlan, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Leanna's grandfather, Dr. David Montgomery. Leanna learns the importance of their work as well as a dangerous secret about her own identity. Some aspects of the plot are predictable and poorly drawn: few readers will be surprised when the "unnamed girl from 2170" whom Ben Franklin predicts will join the ranks of The Liberty Bell's Custodians is revealed to be the protagonist. Similarly, too many references to the distant past—such as Leanna describing her disheveled mother looking "like old photos of twentieth-century drug addicts"—prevent the futuristic setting from coming to life. Still, the fast pace, short chapters, and slim page count will make this volume attractive to reluctant readers, and the obvious curriculum tie-ins will appeal to teachers.—Megan Honig, New York Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Janie Hannagan is inadvertently and unwillingly drawn into other people's dreams and nightmares. In Fade (S & S, 2009), she uses her unique abilities to apprehend criminals. In contrast, Gone is a more personal story about Janie's attempts to come to terms with her troubled family and with the ways that dream catching will affect the rest of her life. Faced with an alcoholic and irresponsible mother, the teen finds some solace in her relationship with her boyfriend but then, unexpectedly, the father she's never known enters her life. Henry Feingold is suffering from a mysterious brain disorder. When Janie is drawn into his unconscious and continuous nightmare, she discovers that he, too, is a dream catcher, and she struggles to use her power to help him find release. As she finds out more about him, Janie faces a choice—use her abilities for the benefit of others and become blind and crippled in her '20s like her mentor, or isolate herself from other human beings, as her father did, to avoid entering their dreams. This is a fast-paced read, written in flashbacks and sentence fragments that suggest the dream state. Janie is a strong, appealing character, and the depictions of her emotional turmoil and her painful dilemma are absolutely believable. This book would make an interesting choice for a book-discussion group. However, it is necessary to have read Wake and Fade to understand everything that is occurring.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 5–8—Nick and Callie Latham are on the Greek island of Theta with their archaeologist parents for a working vacation. Then the children discover that Mum and Dad have lost the family's money in a reckless bid to locate the lost treasure of King Akanon. A shifty businessman kidnaps the couple in order to acquire it for himself. After Nick and Callie barely escape capture themselves, it's up to them to find a way to free their parents. Many adventures follow. Readers will be on the edge of their seats throughout to see what happens next as the young heroes nearly drown, are chased by a helicopter, and so on. Minor quibbles: the parents' irresponsible behavior, and instances of coincidence that stretch belief; for example, when the kids search for the king's tomb, its exact location is revealed in an earthquake. Still, the relationship between Nick and Callie is spot-on, and kids will enjoy this high-spirited tale.—Julie Shatterly, W.A. Bess Elementary School, Gastonia, NC

Gr 8 Up—Will Hodges's mother killed herself a few years ago and since then he's been experiencing horrible nightmares, drifting away from his friends, and having difficulty at school. His relationship with his dad, whom he is beginning to realize is something of a bigot, is strained, at best. In addition, he finds himself in places without remembering how he got there or what he might have been doing in the interim. Worst of all are the "freaks" who are following him and watching him with strange, sad eyes. These people, who call themselves "Returners," are the element that distinguishes this from other novels of teenage woe. Will learns that he, too, is a Returner, one who lives again and again to experience humanity's pain. His nightmares of the Holocaust and other terrible events are actually memories. Later, Will figures out that he is different from the other Returners in that he has actually been the perpetrator of all the murder, torture, and violence that he remembers. His blackouts have hidden some of his own frightful actions such as bullying a friend's younger brother. The other Returners tell him that there is nothing that he can do to change, that he must abide by his destiny. Only in the final pages do readers discover if Will is doomed to this fate. This isn't a pleasant read, but it may appeal to teens who are grappling with the issue of violence, either personal or societal.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 4–6—On a field trip to the Art Institute of Chicago, sixth-graders Jack and Ruthie discover a magical key that allows them to explore the Thorne Rooms, 68 intricate model rooms in the children's galleries. When Ruthie holds the key, she and anything she is touching, including Jack, shrink to the scale of the models. As they explore the rooms, they learn that they are not the first to discover the key—the daughter of a friendly museum guard was the last to learn the secret of the Thorne Rooms, and she left behind a notebook containing priceless family photographs. If Ruthie and Jack can find and return the notebook without giving up the secret of the rooms, they can change the museum guard's life. However, the rooms are not without their dangers. Ruthie and Jack can move beyond them to the different time periods and locations of each one and, in doing so, may be able to alter the course of history. This is a solid story, though it lacks the cachet that would make it stand out from other similar books. The descriptions of the rooms are faithful to the actual rooms in the museum. The pen-and-ink illustrations are of uneven quality and add little to the story. Recommend this book to fans of Blue Balliett's Chasing Vermeer (Scholastic, 2004) and other stories that incorporate a touch of fantasy into a cozy mystery.—Misti Tidman, Boyd County Public Library, Ashland, KY

Gr 8–10—In this sequel to Dream Girl (Delacorte, 2008), Claire Voyante, a New York City 10th grader with psychic powers, bemoans her friend Becca's distance while puzzling over the mixed signals sent by Becca's brother, a college freshman. Then she discovers that the new "friends" Becca has been hanging out with are actually members of a semisecret society called the Blue Moon, and Becca convinces them to invite Claire to join. Claire quickly becomes involved in a plot to reinforce the weak, central cable on the Brooklyn Bridge with a plutonium lining. (If the cable were to be replaced by the city, the bridge would lose its landmark status.) The project is imperiled by the theft of the Moons' top-secret pink iPod. The plot is improbable and cluttered with distractions. The many characters are poorly developed and lack consistency. As in Dream Girl, Claire's psychic powers are almost entirely peripheral to the story. Only for libraries where the first book is popular.—Eliza Langhans, Hatfield Public Library, MA

Gr 9 Up—Star Peters is in the middle of a huge mess. She lives with her baby, Wil, and her grandmother. She's trying to be a mistake-free mom and come to grips with a hidden past that resurfaces with the uninvited, malicious reappearance of her grandmother's ex-boyfriend, Curtis, who raped Star years earlier. Wilson Fletcher outwardly denies that he's Wil's father, but he internalizes every detail of his present life. His shame buries his feelings for Star and prevents him from accepting the impact of his situation on his friendships and future. Both teens blame themselves for Wil's existence: Wilson pressured Star to have sex, and Star refused to use condoms because Curtis used them. Millward presents a broad range of characters and a complex plot told in a simple narrative that alternates between the teens' points of view. Star realistically depicts the struggles of teen parenthood and the responsibility, stress, and stigma it brings. The author successfully includes sex education and parenthood facts throughout the novel in a way that avoids eye-rolling didacticism. Minus the parenthood issue at the heart of the plot, most of the characters seem perfect, which serves to remind readers that pregnancy can happen to anyone. Look beyond the dated cover for a story appealing to realistic-fiction fans and reluctant readers.—Adrienne L. Strock, Maricopa County Library District, AZ

Gr 9 Up—As daughter of royalty in the 99s, a gang in LA, 15-year-old Michelle Peña, Princess P, was never sure that this type of life was for her. Michelle's mother agreed and placed her in foster care. After several foster homes, Michelle is placed with Frank. Here she makes a new life, excelling in both sports and academics—until her blood brothers come looking for her to settle a debt. Dragon, the current king of the Snakes, needs money, and kidnapping Michelle is the fastest way to get it. She and her best friend are snatched off the streets and taken to the Snakes' hideaway in the desert. As they try to find a way out, Michelle must rely on her street smarts to save them and becomes torn between her new life and loyalty to her blood brothers. Michelle's back-and-forth shift from academic student to hardened gang member is unconvincing. And, the connection between the 99s and the Snakes and who is leading each group is confusing. However, Michelle's revelation that she wants both worlds—to be leader of her gang and to be loved by Frank—is telling of her age and the allure of gang life. Readers with a fascination for gangs will pick this up, but with so-so characters and a plot that drags, it may not hold their interest.—Kelley Siegrist, Farmington Community Library, MI

Gr 9 Up—Maurice (Reese) Anderson, 14, stole prescription pads to make easy money for his family. Now he's serving time in a detention center. Working at a nursing home, he meets Mr. Hooft, who tells him that he doesn't like colored people or criminals. An antagonistic relationship quickly develops between them as Mr. Hooft verbally attacks the teen each time he attempts to carry out his duties. But there is greater trouble for Reese back at Progress; his impulsive behavior has left him at odds with the lead guard and the newly arrived gang leader. Now he must control his volatile and sometimes violent behavior when he is provoked as he awaits his appearance before the parole board. His fellow detainees have a wide variety of backgrounds, each offering a thread of connection to readers. Returning to common themes of justice, free will, and consequence, Myers again explores the mind of a young man struggling to survive the streets of Harlem. This latest work, while well written, doesn't achieve the emotional resonance of Paul Volponi's similar Rikers High (Viking, 2010). The characters feel static, and the depictions of the justice system and racial tensions will be familiar to many of Myers's readers. Hooft's incarceration in the Japanese camps during World War II is a somewhat unexpected revelation, but needs more historical background. Though not the author's most powerful work, this book has an audience waiting for it and should be purchased for most collections.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Cassie Renfield, 16, can tell when people are about to die by the glow she sees surrounding them. "The mark" has always been part of her life, though it isn't until she sees it on her beloved grandmother that she begins to question whether she should try to prevent the deaths. When Nan dies, Cassie is sent to her father's hometown in Kansas to spend the summer with an aunt she has never met. There she begins a romance with Lucas, a handsome philosophy student whose life Cassie saves after the mark appears on him. Emboldened by this success, she agrees to his plea that she tell those with the mark about their impending deaths, although in her heart she isn't sure that fate should be changed. Nadol's debut novel is a compelling coming-of-age tale with a bright, likable narrator. Teens will identify with Cassie's uncertainty about her future and the challenges she faces in her first relationship. Although her ability borders on the supernatural, her dilemma and emotions feel genuine and believable thanks to Nadol's sensitive writing. Cassie's search for information about her parents is a natural response to returning to her father's hometown, although the subplot in which she stumbles upon a huge secret about her mother (thanks to someone she "coincidentally" meets early in the novel) seems contrived and feels hastily tacked on at the novel's end. Despite this, readers will eagerly follow Cassie's story and will hope for a sequel.—Leah J. Sparks, formerly at Bowie Public Library, MD

Gr 4–6—Between the title and the cover image (a red-haired boy flying high, quite obviously fueled by a certain amusing bodily function), this book will have no trouble enticing fans of Captain Underpants and the Wimpy Kid. It's nothing we haven't read before: a slightly mad scientist invents, among other things, an amazing farting powder that allows two unpopular kids to foil the bullies and achieve popularity and their various dreams. The Norwegian setting and situations make it a little more exotic, and there is plenty of gross-out humor (including a particularly disgusting journey through the city sewers, well-deserved and truly poetic justice against the main bad guy, and a really memorable, um, "Seven Butt Salute" to celebrate May 17th, Norwegian Independence Day). Lowery's line drawings add to the fun. Hand this book to Pilkey and Kinney fanatics to tide them over and pray no one ever really comes up with such an invention.—Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 7–10—Charlie and her mother are moving. Kathy has quit her job at Charlie's school; the house has been sold; and Sean, Kathy's long-term live-in boyfriend, has been ousted. The only thing left is to find a new home, and a place to recover from the grief of losing Rose, Kathy and Sean's stillborn daughter, who had been so happily anticipated months before. Though Charlie doesn't want to go, she tries to be supportive of her mother when they move to Flightsend, a house in the middle of a nowhere village, and Kathy begins her gardening business, a far cry from her former teaching career. What Charlie doesn't realize is that Flightsend is exactly what both of them need. This gentle novel is about the teen's journey to maturity. Though not immature to begin with, she learns that the events of her first summer at Flightsend open new paths and understandings of herself and the adults around her. The characters are wonderfully developed. The leisurely plot unfolds quietly, meandering through Charlie's life and endearing her to readers. Put this book in the hands of teens who enjoy Sarah Dessen and know that they will not be disappointed.—Heather E. Miller, Homewood Public Library, AL

Gr 9 Up—Ever and Damen have triumphed over adversity and are now both immortal. The only sticking point is that Roman tricked Ever just as she saved Damen's life and now they are never allowed to touch. All of this occurred at the end of Evermore (St. Martin's, 2009), and these events are quickly recounted here. However, readers not familiar with that book will still find this one confusing. Ever is understandably upset at the idea of eternal life with her beloved while never allowed to kiss (not to mention anything else), and Damen is determined to find a reversal spell. Then things get even stickier for these romantic heroes. Ever runs into Jude, the man she's married or almost married in her past incarnations. Is she supposed to end up with him instead of Damen? And Damen becomes responsible for twins who escaped the fires of Salem but are now homeless and still aged 13. Can he overturn his bad karma by becoming father to these homeless girls? While Ever is a rather naïve and superficial protagonist, she still manages to hold readers' interest more than she annoys. Additionally, the question of love versus destiny is one that many romantic fantasy readers enjoy pondering. This is a quick read for fans of the first book who are looking for light romance with some magic added for good measure.—Saleena L. Davidson, South Brunswick Public Library, Monmouth Junction, NJ

Gr 8 Up—Lucy keeps a horrendous secret. At her old school, it accidentally slipped that her mother's obsessive hoarding forced Lucy, her brother, and her sister to live in the midst of endless stacks of junk and filth, earning Lucy the nickname "garbage girl." Now, starting her junior year in a new school, she has a great best friend, a potential boyfriend of her dreams, and no one gets to see the interior of her house. Since her older siblings have moved out and her father is remarried, she lives alone with her unstable mother—until the night Lucy comes home and finds that the woman has died in the rubble. She panics about reporting the death, because then everyone will discover the truth about their living conditions. Lucy's attempts to clear the massive amounts of trash from the house, to no avail, lead to an ultimate "solution" that is shocking, tragic, desperate, and believable. Characters, situations, and settings are vivid, and dialogue rings true. As the teen tries to dispose of the debris before calling the police, effective and well-placed flashbacks triggered by unearthed items link her remembrances about what brought the house to its present condition and reflect her feelings about tense and frustrating parental and sibling relationships. As a valuable new addition to heartbreaking but honest books about teens immersed in emotionally distressed families, like Nancy Werlin's The Rules of Survival (Dial, 2006), this potent and creatively woven page-turner brings a traumatic situation front and center.—Diane P. Tuccillo, Poudre River Public Library District, Fort Collins, CO

Gr 6–9—When Sophie Greene flies to Florida to spend spring break with her grandmother, she meets Jack, a stand-in for the Big Bad Wolf, on the plane. She devours romance novels about Devon Devoreaux, a jet-setter with a boyfriend in every port whose soul mate, Dante, resembles Jack. Sophie would like to believe that Jack is her soul mate, especially when he calls her "Red" because of the cowgirl hat she's bought on a whim and because he's more rebellious than her last boyfriend, Michael. Sophie takes most of the novel to realize what readers get right away: Jack is nothing but a charming moocher who isn't all that exciting. Unrealistically, he's able to schmooze her grandmother and worm himself into a place to stay, unlimited television, and homemade meals. Michael shows up in Florida and shares an amusing miniature-golf duel with Jack over Sophie, and she decides against both rivals. By story's end, though, she admits there's something to be said for steadfast Michael as long as she can spice up her life on her own. Neither hilariously funny nor weighty enough to be taken seriously, this third title in Palmer's series of fairy-tale variants seems like a parody of itself. Readers don't know whether to root for Sophie or to shake her, and her constant references to the "Devon" books get annoying.—Tina Zubak, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 6–9—Samuel, 13, lives in the British colony of Pennsylvania. He spends his days exploring and hunting in the woods far from civilization. His father wants to live a quiet life learning to use tools and build a house, while his mother tries to get the garden to grow. There are rumors that American patriots have begun a bloody war against the English but news takes weeks to arrive and the fighting seems far away from the peaceful frontier. Suddenly, the war comes to Samuel. While he is hunting, British soldiers and Iroquois attack, taking Samuel's parents prisoner and killing many in the settlement. He follows their trail determined to rescue them. Paulsen takes readers inside the reality of this war, revealing the horrific conditions of the civilians who were taken prisoner. Between each chapter Paulsen includes information on various aspects of the war such as weapons, civilian deaths, orphans, and communication. Through Samuel's story, readers discover the brutality and cost of war. In the afterword, the author informs readers that he is not attempting to write the history of the Revolutionary War but instead to clarify some aspects of it. His story will leave readers with a new sense of admiration for those who lost their lives in the creation of the nation. This fast-paced novel will appeal to Paulsen fans and is a good choice for reluctant readers.—Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD

Gr 5–8—The 14-year-old daughter of Lord Rathbone has been abducted, and no word has been heard from her captors in more than two months. Ever curious, Holmes is ready to spring into action when the ransom note finally arrives and is read publicly by a Scotland Yard inspector. Largely on his own, the young detective seemingly finds the girl and solves the case within a matter of hours. In typical Holmesian fashion, however, things are not always as they seem. Mistaken identity, double crossing, and the superstitions of the common folk all make the mystery stay out of reach for longer than the sleuth would like. The boy Holmes is, in general, more likable than his adult counterpart; he is less pompous, more connected to his impoverished roots. However, like the elder Holmes, it is ambition more than altruism that drives him to find the girl. Fast paced and filled with clues readers can follow, this is a fun read.—Nora G. Murphy, Los Angeles Academy Middle School

Gr 9 Up—Veronica plans to spend summer vacation working alone in the employees-only consignment section of Clothing Bonanza and drinking mocha smoothies from the donut shop next door. She's content spending her time avoiding people and ogling the fabulous vintage garments that she's separated from the heaps of ratty clothing. Veronica has successfully avoided making friends for a couple of years since a supposed friend teased her about her larger-than-average appetite. So when two pushy and charismatic coworkers begin to notice her, Veronica is not sure how to handle it. While following the girls' plan to spy on the stock boy, Len, Veronica finds herself having a summer she never expected. He introduces her to romance, reptiles, and, unfortunately, regret. Vintage Veronica provides a realistic snapshot of teen dating, dotted with descriptions of some adorable-sounding outfits and filled with well-rounded characters from a variety of subcultures. The protagonist is a self-described "fat girl" who is not obsessed with losing weight—a much-needed character in young adult fiction. An enjoyable read filled with quirky characters.—Emily Chornomaz, Brooklyn Public Library, NY

Gr 7 Up—Sixteen-year-old Allie's life revolves around music. By the time she was 12, her vinyl collection had grown to 900 albums. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of the music she listens to and writes about in a printed fanzine and a blog, both of which take off slowly and then become wildly successful. She has the perfect job at Bob & Bob Records on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley, where the bins are filled with new and used CDs and used vinyls. Despite the store's proximity to the UC Berkeley campus, college students are not a large part of the clientele, since they've been lured away by the free downloads scorned by Allie and other true audiophiles. Her friend Kit's seemingly limitless supply of male admirers leaves Allie wishing for at least one romance of her own, so she is delighted when a new customer asks her out for coffee. This bubble bursts when a string of robberies finally hits Bob's and Allie recognizes a familiar pair of boots on one of the ski-masked hold-up men. Kit sensibly helps her decide whether or not to inform the police and to deal with the disappointment that her date was merely a setup for information about the store. Soon Allie discovers that romance is sometimes waiting in unexpected places. Filled with local color and a skillfully drawn cast of eccentric characters, this novel will appeal to music lovers, romance fans, and those seeking an upbeat, satisfying read.—Ginny Gustin, Sonoma County Library System, Santa Rosa, CA

Gr 8 Up—Hanna Jarvinen, 16, is biracial, bicultural, and bipolar. She makes her own clothes, all of which are purple. After the death of her Finnish father, Hanna goes to Portero, TX, to reunite with her unsuspecting and unwelcoming mother, Rosalee. Demons, spirits, and monsters of every variety populate the town. The ghost of Hanna's father haunts her even when she takes her meds. She takes up with Wyatt, one of Portero's designated monster hunters, to free her mother of a notorious evil spirit. The town lore is jumbled and confusing, and the vast and gruesome variety of ghouls seems completely random. Everything in Bleeding Violet is overwrought. Hanna describes her sexual encounters in bodice-ripping detail, yet she and Wyatt have zero chemistry. Their paranormal interactions are nonsensically gross instead of legitimately scary. Hanna and Rosalee's conversations are an odd combination of wooden exposition and shrieking melodrama. The gross-outs come fast and often, but fail to move the story along. Rosalee's possession, in the last third of the book, seems like a cheap device to resolve an otherwise aimless plot. Hanna's wacky quirks may irritate teens, and though earnest and occasionally witty, she never engages readers.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 4–6—Seeking solace in a "forest" of abandoned car parts after her father's deportation, fifth-grader Zitlally befriends a small dog chained to a rusty truck hood and names him Star. Remembering the tales her Nahuatl-speaking Papá told her, she begins to think of the dog as his "spirit animal." If she can rescue Star, perhaps her father will return safely from Mexico. With her trailer-park neighbor and new friend Crystal, she nurtures and trains the dog, searching for him when he disappears and rescuing him when an injury threatens his life. The magical thinking that worked in Mexico when she was young and frightened by a dog bite works again to reunite her family. Once again, Resau has woven details of immigrant life into a compelling story. The focus is on the developing friendships, both between Zitlally and her previously ignored neighbor, and between the fearful youngster and the dog. Conversations between the two girls are believable and the details of their lives convincing. The first-person narrative moves steadily as Zitlally loses and then gradually recovers her voice and gains confidence. Vignette illustrations introduce the chapters. A version of Zitlally's father's spirit animal story, a note about immigration, and glossaries of Spanish and Nahuatl words are appended. This is a well-told and deeply satisfying read.—Kathleen Isaacs, Children's Literature Specialist, Pasadena, MD

Gr 6–8—Reggie McKnight is a smart but somewhat geeky eighth grader growing up in New York City. He earned the nickname "Pukey" during an unfortunate incident at assembly, and he hasn't been able to shake it. Life at his alternative school isn't all bad, though. Reggie's friends Ruthie and Joe C. have his back most of the time, and then there's beautiful Mialonie, who is showing some interest in him. But these days Reggie has a little more on his plate than he can handle. His dad is out of work, and his mom works too much. He gets involved at a homeless shelter, befriending two of its residents, but is often at a loss for how to make a difference. And will he ever work up the courage to overcome his reputation as "Pukey" and run for class president? The novel takes on a number of weighty issues including religion, homelessness, and getting involved without the heavy language and situations that are often a part of urban fiction. Although this moderately paced story will likely require some selling, it is a good one to recommend to readers who are looking for realistic fiction with a focus on social responsibility.—Jessica Marie, Renton Public Library, WA

Gr 4–6—This book starts off with a bang, literally, as Lillybet Green prepares for her 13th birthday in a new town with no friends and a lack of coordination that makes her the brunt of jokes in her gymnastics class. When an exploding package sends her on a magical journey to a valley inhabited by leprechauns, she figures that it's just a concussion from the blast, but soon she realizes that she has more in common with these green characters than she could imagine. Three trials are presented that Lillybet must pass in order to take up her true place in this magic kingdom and have any chance of returning her and her mom to their California home. But it's hard to be human in a tiny world in which magic rules and things are not always as they seem. In her attempts to complete the required tests, she challenges herself, gains confidence, and learns the true meaning of friendship. Lillybet relies on her brain as well as her own mystical powers to maneuver through the leprechaun world while finding her true place with her mom and newfound friends. Readers who enjoy similar series like Daisy Meadows's "Rainbow Magic" (Scholastic) or Jan Bozarth's "The Fairy Godmother Academy" (Random) might like this book, but a lengthy story line that tends to drag may deter less-determined readers.—Cheryl Ashton, Amherst Public Library, OH

Gr 5–8—These deliciously shivery tales are perfect for campfire spookiness or as Halloween read-alouds. As in the previous books in the series, San Souci relies heavily on folklore and urban legends, giving the stories an even more chilling impact. Additionally, the tales center around children and usually have a rather dark ending. "Heading Home" features a boy who makes the wrong choice to walk the railroad tracks home. He almost pays with his life when he is chased by a ghostly woman who carries her head in a shopping bag. Another scary one is "Woody," which features a sinister half-bird half-Bigfoot creature. The girls in the story are cruel to another girl but they tolerate her because she has a cool camera. One day while out in the woods trying to find Woody, they get into a fight and separate. Then, one by one, they are hunted down until the final girl discovers her cruel fate just a little bit too late. Strong themes such as death and murder are prevalent throughout. Ouimet's dark illustrations are paired perfectly with this creepy collection.—Julie Shatterly, W.A. Bess Elementary School, Gastonia NC

Gr 7–10—One year after Lucca's death, his girlfriend, Brooklyn, and his brother, Nico, are both trying to run from their grief. When Gabe, who was driving the night of the accident, dies of a drug overdose, neither Brooklyn nor Nico knows how to deal with this new tragedy. It is not until Brooklyn begins seeing the menacing figure of Gabe in her dreams and Lucca's ghost visits Nico and urges him to "help Brooklyn" that the two come together and begin to find the strength to move on. Like Schroeder's I Heart You, You Haunt Me and Far from You (both S & S, 2008), Chasing Brooklyn is told in a verse format that enables the author to cut right to the emotional quick. The short sentences and minimal dialogue keep the focus on the pain and fear of the two main characters as they become friends, training together, and trying to vanquish the ghosts from their lives. While the wrenching impact will leave readers raw, the ultimately hopeful ending is comforting. A quick read, but one with substance.—Karen E. Brooks-Reese, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 4–7—If 12-year-old Isabel becomes a finalist in the Baker's Best Baking Contest, she'll finally get to do something she's always wanted to do—travel. Her Chocolate Jam Tarts are delicious and original but her stressed-out mom wants her to create a cupcake recipe for the contest instead. Mom's store, It's Raining Cupcakes, is about to open and a winning entry from her daughter would be an excellent way to advertise, especially since the competition—Beatrice's Brownies—is moving into their little Oregon town. Isabel will have to be resourceful and unrelenting if she wants to make their dreams come true by transforming an old Laundromat into a successful venture. Schroeder includes interesting secondary characters: Isabel's grandma is never without a homemade hat, Stan the barber always leaves scenes with a knock-knock joke, and Isabel envies her wealthier friend Sophie's opportunities to enjoy sports, music lessons, and travel. This story is partially told through notebook entries and through postcards and letters Isabel receives from her flight-attendant aunt and from Sophie when she's at camp. The ending is upbeat but it leaves readers hanging about the outcome of the contest and fails to include Isabel's recipe that moves her to the next level of the competition, though it includes two others. This story about making dreams come true may encourage young girls to set goals and go after their own dreams.—Tanya Boudreau, Cold Lake Public Library, AB, Canada

Gr 7 Up—Porter Delancey, 16, is eager to put his marijuana use and other aspects of his troubled past behind him. Lately, particularly after following his probation officer's advice, life seems a bit brighter. Although his mother has filled his head with tales of his supposedly abusive father's behavior toward the family, Porter has little memory of events prior to the man leaving years earlier. He and his pal Tack walk the Toronto streets, talking and waiting for life changes, and Porter senses that he is being watched and followed by his father. He haltingly tells Lavender, who has captured his heart, and the two confront the ever-present stranger. The somewhat suspenseful first-person narrative moves at a deliberate pace, but readers will be intrigued to discover the truths along with the protagonist. A likable guy who comes a long way over the course of the book, Porter learns that family can have several meanings and that not everything is exactly as he perceives it. Even reluctant readers may enjoy becoming acquainted with this troubled youngster.—Andrea Tarr, Corona Public Library, CA

Gr 7–10—When Alex Sawyer, 15, is sentenced to life in a horrific underground prison for a murder he didn't commit, his nightmare is only beginning. Ever since the Summer of Slaughter, when gangs such as the Skulls and the Fifty-niners went on a murderous rampage, the government has been throwing away the key on juvenile offenders. "New fish" Alex and cellmate Donovan sleep in pitch-black darkness patrolled by furless dogs with silver eyes and "blacksuits" in gas masks. Unpredictable siren wails keep prisoners in check, forcing them to race back to their cells before the bars close—lockdown—or risk being killed. Alex is also "Skull Fodder," at the mercy of inmate gang members, and he realizes how similarly he once bullied kids in his own school. Smith builds a convincing atmosphere of fear and oppression until one day Alex catches a waft of fresh air from an off-limits area near his work zone. He becomes obsessed with the idea of escaping, and the mood shifts with the glimmer of hope that there could be a way out. Once a plot is hatched, readers will be turning pages without pause, and the cliff-hanger ending will have them anticipating the next installment. Most appealing is Smith's flowing writing style, filled with kid-speak, colorful adjectives, and amusing analogies. Fans of James Patterson's "Maximum Ride" and Darren Shan's "The Demonata" series (both Little, Brown) will find this satisfying fare.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 9 Up—Regina Afton is lucky enough to be a member of the ruling clique of Hallowell High. She is best friends with Anna, Hallowell's queen bee, and she's dating Josh, one of the most popular guys in the school. Things take a drastic turn at a party when Anna's boyfriend attempts to rape her. The story gets deliberately twisted, and word gets around that Regina tried to seduce Donnie. From that point on, she is an outcast and her high school life becomes a living hell. Regina is tortured by the new Fearsome Foursome, which includes Kara, the architect of Regina's downfall. She is branded "Bitch. Whore. Slut." There's no one she can turn to for support, since she alienated all of the other kids at Hallowell with taunts and cruelty during her time at the top. As a last resort she tentatively tries to befriend Michael Hayden, who is known as unstable because Regina and her friends spread rumors about him. As Regina deals with the emotional and physical abuse heaped on her by her former friends, she also deals with the pain that she's caused so many others. This story takes an unflinching look at the intricacies of high school relationships and how easily someone's existence can change. Fans of the film Mean Girl will enjoy this tale of redemption and forgiveness.—Laura Amos, Newport News Public Library, VA

Gr 5–8—Louis enjoys gathering and memorizing the statistics of his favorite baseball players, but he is embarrassed that he doesn't play stickball very well. During the summer of 1961, he is invited to become a batboy for his favorite team, the New York Yankees, much to the chagrin of his envious stepbrother. Tooke adds humor to the plot with good-natured hazing when Louis is sent looking for a "container of curveballs," among other things. The boy also faces ethical dilemmas when he encounters an unscrupulous newspaper reporter eager for a story and a bully with a stolen bike. At times, in an attempt to make the setting realistic, the plethora of detail intrudes on the actual story. Secondary characters such as Louis's mother, father, stepmother, and stepbrother don't fare well in the story arc. Interested readers may want to do some research on Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle to separate truth from fiction within the plot. Those who have exhausted Dan Gutman's "Baseball Card Adventures" series (HarperCollins) may find a supplement here.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

Gr 4–6—This story takes place 20 years after the events in The Fairies of Nutfolk Wood (HarperCollins, 2006). Willa has a daughter, Zelly, who takes center stage in this novel, as she and her mother return to the small town of Plunkit for her grandmother's funeral. Willa is anxious to return to the city since being in Plunkit brings back bad memories of Zelly's father. But the child feels at home for the first time, bonding with two new friends as they meet the fairy inhabitants of the surrounding forest—fairies who are in danger of losing their homes to a housing development. Though the story can stand alone, readers who are familiar with the first book may feel more connected to the characters and the significance of the old house and the paintings of the Nutfolk. The first-person narration is an effective way of showing Zelly's thoughts and emotions, though at times some of her insights seem precocious for a child of her age. At the center of the story is the fairy boy, Whistle Bright, who is at first hostile toward Zelly, but who grows to learn that human children aren't so different from his own kind. Their relationship, as well as Zelly connecting with the father she never knew, provides the book's emotional drive. The story lacks an active threat from the housing developers, but overall it is a satisfying read.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL

Gr 5–8—In this ultra-girly, choose-your-own-adventure-style book filled with pop-culture references and over-the-top adolescent drama, the reader is the main character. There are several endings, and the outcome of the story is determined through personality tests at the conclusion of each chapter. If the reader is a huge gossip instead of a girl who minds her own beeswax, the book will allow her to listen in on a conversation instead of walking away. The setting is a mall, with the reader and her "friends" trying to win tickets to a killer 13th birthday party, bumping into a model scout, and attempting to play it cool in front of adorable guys. The content is fluff, but it's just the kind that middle school girls will enjoy, and the quizzes make the book a good sell to reluctant readers. Many might even skip over the filler and simply be entertained taking the personality quizzes.—Emily Chornomaz, Brooklyn Public Library, NY

Gr 5–8—Wojcik tells of a kid who is bullied by parents, schoolmates, and a brother. Joey's a fifth grader at the beginning of the story and in high school at the end of what are supposedly journal entries. Each entry recounts the humiliations and pains of the day followed by a drift into fantasy when Joey imagines adulation from the entire world in a major triumph over whomever has been the biggest enemy of the day. The disconnected parents seem entirely removed from their children's lives, with Dad focused on using the strap to punish as he was punished. The anger is palpable, and younger brother Trevor has a particular knack for making Joey miserable by focusing on his clumsiness and weight problem. Toward the end, a supportive adult comes into Joey's life and there is a complete turnaround, albeit accomplished in small gradual steps. This is tedious bibliotherapy with didactic intent clear on every page. Few readers will tolerate the repetition and suffering that appear on page after page.—Carol A. Edwards, Denver Public Library, CO

Gr 7–10—As a child, Ohno exhibited exceptional athletic prowess and was successful in any sport that inspired him. His trajectory to Olympic star and the youngest American to ever win a World Cup in speed skating required dedication and training, but exceptions made to train such a young person also presented challenges when Ohno wasn't ready to leave his friends or make the commitment required to excel as an international competitor. Anna Sui is known for her youthful "baby doll" designs and extravagant combinations inspired by the hippie and rock-'n'-roll fashions of the '60s and early '70s. Readers learn about the setbacks and hard work required to become successful along with details such as Sui's research and collection of images or "genius files" she began assembling as a teen and continues to rely on for ideas. Boxed insets offer information about influences and notable individuals in Ohno's and Sui's disciplines. Nineteen color photos show Ohno's competitions and Sui's designs, making these books text heavy, but the quality of research and in-depth coverage broadens their usefulness. Beyond their function as informational resources, these books are inspiring for the exceptional individuals they depict, and especially for the emphasis on the qualities Sui and Ohno exhibited when they were the same age as the intended audience for the books.—Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

Gr 4–7—With help from two journalists, nine-year-old Ali tells an unusual tale. Although she grew up in the grim slums of Mumbai, her life was a fairly happy one, populated with friends, warm and loving siblings, and a devoted father. Then, almost by chance, she heard of a casting call for the movie Slumdog Millionaire and became one of just three children chosen from more than 500 applicants. As she recounts interesting moments during the movie's filming with childlike candor, readers are introduced not only to the grinding poverty she navigated daily, but also to India's larger cultural and socioeconomic landscape. The writing here has a journalistic feel. It is not poetic or especially nuanced. But in a sea of cookie-cutter biography series, this book stands out. It has heart, and is aimed at an age group that will identify with Ali in essential ways. Her descriptions of the Bandra East slum are gritty, a little yucky, and wholly compelling. Keeping in mind that most of the book's audience will not have seen the R-rated film, the book is still a worthwhile addition to most collections.—Tracy H. Chrenka, Forest Hills Public Schools, Grand Rapids, MI

Gr 4–6—Each of these titles highlights a specific, and often obscure, invention from the past decade that is making, or has the potential to make, a real difference in the world. With a mix of scientific terminology and accessible sentence structure, the books effectively describe how the ideas took shape and were put into practice by the scientists involved. Students are generally intrigued by robots and will find Nexi Robot of particular interest, though the author is careful to explain the limitations of what this robot currently can and cannot do. Seed Vault explains the need to preserve endangered plant species and how they are collected and protected. Sunscreen for Plants shows how early attempts at protecting crops from overexposure to the sun were either ineffective or somehow harmful to the plant, and how a few individuals worked together to devise a product that was both effective and ecologically sound. Bionic Hand is a fascinating look at how biology and technology are being used to create more useful prostheses for those who have lost a limb. In all of the books, color photographs are included on every page and provide a visual complement to the texts. Small "Did You Know?" boxes appear on nearly every spread and offer up short, interesting facts. Current, relevant Web sites are appended. Librarians looking to beef up science or inventions collections may find these solid additions.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 7 Up—The year 1867 saw the birth of three remarkable women who, along with their daughters, made their marks on society and changed the world. Their lives and those of their daughters are captured within three segments that read like novellas. Atkins's use of narrative poetry is perfectly suited to the recollection of moments thoroughly researched from sources listed in the bibliography, as well as those from the author's imagination. The fundamentals captured here most emphatically are: both generations' need to be independent, to strike out on their own, coupled with the wish for one another's love and support, if not possible due to separation, then through bonds surpassing any possible physical boundaries. There is nothing false in the depictions of these women: their accomplishments, their struggles, joys and heartaches, and most of all their relationships. This book, powerful when read independently, would also make for a great readers' theater project for teens. The images created bring powerful emotions to the surface, felt by the women profiled here and by those who read this gem that belongs in any literary cedar chest, as well as in every collection.—Tracy Weiskind, Chicago Public Library

Gr 4–8—These biographies offer engaging overviews of these people's lives and achievements. Readers will be drawn to the appealing layout of this series. Full-color photos appear throughout, with the exception, of course, of W.E.B. Du Bois; they are in black and white or a sepia tone. Derek Jeter has some exceptional action shots that will excite young baseball fans. The sidebars flow well with the texts, allowing for a more natural read. The theme of the series is how these individuals were able to overcome the prejudices toward their race and make great achievements, but Jeter doesn't even mention the athlete's race again after it describes his heritage. Prince does elaborate on the entertainer's struggles with race. There are a few minor errors, such as a contradiction of dates in Carey, but even so, libraries needing updated biographies on these individuals might consider these volumes.—Esther Keller, I.S. 278, Marine Park, NY

Gr 5–7—According to the time line in the first book, graffiti can be traced back to 60,000 BCE and paintings on cave walls. A note on the contents page states that it is illegal to draw on other people's property without permission. The different types of graffiti described are interesting, and some of the artwork is beautiful. A section on problems talks about ugly tags (short nicknames), the expense of cleanup, and how some cities have legal graffiti walls. Journals encourages readers to write as a way to express their feelings. It describes different types of journals and blogs. A page on Internet safety and the danger of downloading material encourages adult supervision. Recording is a must-read for any aspiring musician. A brief history is followed by a discussion of modern techniques, and technical terms are explained in simple language. Fun activities include designing a label. Screenplay covers film and television. Plot, location, characters, dialogue, and mood are a few of the components discussed. Staging discusses the various professionals involved in a production, such as actors, costume designers, prop masters, and stage handlers. Well organized and with bright, colorful photography, these introductory titles give readers good basic knowledge.—Colleen D. Bocka, Nathaniel Rochester Community School, Rochester, NY

Gr 5–7—Though the illustrations are not as strong as the texts, these eight books stand out for clear, accurate presentations of basic facts punctuated by lively turns of phrase and, sometimes, details not commonly found in the plethora of similar tours of the solar system and beyond. Bjorklund enhances her introduction to Venus, Earth's uninhabitable "evil twin," with explanations of why its occasional transits across the Sun's face are important to astronomers, and goes on to an ominous comparison of the greenhouse-gas effect there with the same phenomenon on our planet. In Jupiter, the author provides an unusual perspective on planetary dynamics by opening his coherent account of what and how we have learned about the planet and its moons through ground, orbital, and space-probe observations with an explanation of how a gravitational "snow line" governed whether newly formed planets turned out rocky or largely gas and ice. Aside from a statement in Sun that the solar system would "collapse" if our star disappeared (actually, it would fly apart), errors in the narratives are rare or nonexistent; in the mix of color space photos and artists' depictions, however, a boilerplate view of the solar system with Pluto's orbit incorrectly shown recurs in several volumes, and elsewhere various close-ups of asteroid-belt and planetary-ring segments are exaggeratedly crowded. Stars is more of an add-on to the series, being a standard and very quick glance at stellar types and life cycles, galaxies, and constellations—but the other titles will give even experienced young skywatchers a better understanding of the nature and marvelous variety of our closest neighbors in space.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 6–10—Bowers draws upon archival material, supplemented with his own extensive research, to document the activities of the Mississippi State Sovereignty Commission, a Civil Rights-era state agency that disseminated segregationist propaganda and used Soviet-style methods to spy upon, harass, and harm those who challenged white supremacy. He describes how the Commission, formed in 1956 in reaction to the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision, recruited a wide network of spies and informants, and conspired with elected officials and state and local law enforcement agencies to thwart any progress on civil rights. Bowers details the Commission's tactics, which disregarded constitutional protections for those who supported or aided the cause, and discusses how the scope of its activities quickly escalated from its initial attempts to control or marginalize the NAACP and resist public and school and university integration into outright advocacy of violence and obstruction of justice. He closes with a discussion of how federal civil rights legislation and the threat of financial sanctions resulted in the abolition of the Commission, but warns readers that the bigotry that gave it free rein still exists and could emerge again. Period black-and-white photographs, an appendix with reproductions of selected Commission documents, and an extensive bibliography of books and links to online archives supplement the text. This book's unique perspective will help students understand the previously unknown history of the despicable actions of Mississippi leaders who opposed civil rights and the silent citizens who supported their activities.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 5–9—An illustrated adaptation/abridgment of Bryson's A Short History of Nearly Everything, (Broadway, 2003), this treatment addresses the same set of sprawling questions as the original. Among them: How and when was the universe born and how vast might it now be? How old is the Earth and how much does it weigh? Why did the dawn of life happen to emerge here, of all places, and how could lowly microbes possibly be the primitive precursors of a species as complex as Homo sapiens? These are weighty questions for readers of any age to grapple with, but Bryson lightens the load by skillfully scaffolding the concepts he presents. Each topic is concisely addressed in the author's breezy Brit voice, explaining exactly what we know and how we came to know it. Photographs, cartoon sidebars, humorous anecdotes, and frequent recaps entertain and reinforce understanding along the journey. Ultimately, all of the ideas come together to give readers a wide-angle perspective on what a wildly improbable privilege it is to be a member of a species that the author says is "perhaps, the universe's supreme achievement." Bryson wraps up by suggesting that since we seem to be both "the best there is" and the only species capable of deciding our planet's future, we humans should redouble our efforts at being good stewards of the Earth. A highly recommended piece of popular science that succeeds largely because—as he nears age 60—there's clearly still a curious kid living in Bryson's head.—Jeffrey Hastings, Highlander Way Middle School, Howell, MI

Gr 8 Up—Many periods of American history are hotly debated. These books represent two of these critical eras by covering the destruction of Hiroshima, including war developments, the construction of the atom bomb, and the ensuing Cold War; and another spanning the turbulent decade that bore witness to the Civil Right Movement, the divisive Vietnam War, and various other movements concerning women, gays, and the environment. Utilizing an unbiased and chronological narrative, both authors delve deeply into the given topics, providing an overall representation as well as a substantial degree of insight. In both volumes, readers are given a quick overview of the period, descriptions of the major participants, and the standing of the debate today. The potency of these titles lies in the excellent arrangement of numerous well-chosen sidebars and photos, and fluent, concise prose. Both books culminate with ample source notes and lists of abundant Web sites and print resources for further exploration of the topics. By covering seminal research topics in an engaging and crisp manner, these slim, inviting books are effective research tools.—Brian Odom, Pelham Public Library, AL

Gr 4–6—Cole employs the same question-and-answer format and much of the same text as in her 1988 title (Morrow). She offers straightforward information about topics such as physical changes in puberty, masturbation, birth control, pregnancy, homosexuality, and STDs. Minor changes include lowering the age of the onset of puberty and substituting trendier names for characters (e.g., Olivia for Sharon). Sections on AIDS, birth control, and homosexuality have undergone more extensive alterations to incorporate new medical information and societal changes such as moves to legalize same-sex marriage. The most striking change in the book's appearance comes from the new black-and-white illustrations that replace the previous edition's line drawings. Thomas's wide-eyed preteens sport modern hairstyles and clothing. Most are Caucasian, and all are slim, attractive, and perky. The author continues to emphasize the importance of parent-child discussion, although she has eliminated her list of recommended resources. Libraries with the original book will want to replace it with this edition. Others should consider adding it as a source of basic information for curious preteens.—Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Gr 4–6—Quick, interesting facts designed to fascinate readers are the basis of these thin books. Readers used to obtaining information in quick bites from the Internet and DK's "Eyewitness" books will not be disappointed with them. An average of six numbered facts appear on each spread, and most are accompanied by a colorful photograph. Activities, brain teasers, and quizzes are scattered throughout to provide additional information. The sharp, clear illustrations will draw in casual readers, and the array of facts will hold their attention.—Christine Markley, Washington Elementary School, Barto, PA

Gr 5–9—Many intriguing animals appear in this multifaceted explanation of how ancient creatures either evolved into the water-dwelling animals we know today or became extinct. Eamer's information-packed text, often lively and conversational, can also be challenging and sometimes dense. The book follows the structure and format of Super Crocs & Monster Wings (Annick, 2008). Here, the opening chapter explains how the Earth's oceans came to be and develops a time line of animal evolution. Each of the following chapters devotes segments to a group of related animals ranging from tiny worms to whales, water birds, and many others. Scientific names of all species include pronunciation guides. "Named Megaleledone stebos (meg-ah-LEH-leh-doh-nay SHE-the-bohss), it might well be the living ancestor of many deep-sea octopus species." Relevant instances of scientific discovery and study are peppered throughout the text, explaining how we know what we know about these animals. The book features brightly colored, busy pages with sidebars, "Fun Facts," and small full-color photographs rimmed in bold shades. The vivid format has the look of many series books in a miscellany construct though the content is much more substantial. The material is often interesting, yet the book is not visually compelling. It's unlikely to attract browsers, but capable readers with a serious interest in animal science will find it enjoyable and even fascinating.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 8 Up—This engaging title documents 50-year-old Swedish suffragette and novelist Fredrika Bremer's three-month travels around Cuba in 1851. Based in the home of a wealthy sugar planter, Bremer journeys around the country with her host's teenaged slave Cecilia, who longs for her mother and home in the Congo. Elena, the planter's privileged 12-year-old daughter, begins to accompany them on their trips into the countryside. Both Elena and Cecilia are inspired by their guest's independence, Elena to wonder if she can avoid eventual marriage and Cecilia to dream of freedom for her unborn child. Using elegant free verse and alternating among each character's point of view, Engle offers powerful glimpses into Cuban life at that time. Along the way, she comments on slavery, the rights of women, and the stark contrast between Cuba's rich and poor. The author takes some license with the real Bremer's journey; Elena is fictional, which the author is careful to point out in her author's note. She also includes a reference list for readers who want to learn more about Bremer. The easily digestible, poetic narrative makes this a perfect choice for reluctant readers, students of the women's movement, those interested in Cuba, and teens with biography assignments.—Leah J. Sparks, formerly at Bowie Public Library, MD

Gr 6 Up—The titles in this informative, nonjudgmental series examine many dimensions of the family unit. Including color photos, plentiful sidebars, and interesting headline stories, the accessible texts present real-life experiences and numerous supporting facts, definitions, graphs, charts, and statistics. Gay and Lesbian Parents addresses the controversy and intolerance faced by same-sex parents and how children in these families meet their unique situations. Teen Parents presents the reality of raising a child while continuing school and/or working, while other titles look at the challenges of raising foster children, living on the streets or in a shelter without a real home, and facing prejudices or mixing cultures in a multiracial home. Within each chapter, "What Do You Think?" questions encourage readers to consider the information presented. Multiracial Families concludes with a helpful word list to familiarize readers with appropriate words to use, and Teen Parents ends with an eye-opening list of costs involved with having a baby.—Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE

Gr 4–7—These books are visually attractive with numerous color illustrations, art reproductions, and photos. They contain time lines (highly condensed), short bibliographies, indexes (limited to broad terms), and glossaries (inadequate and often more confusing than helpful). Regrettably, the information provided is rudimentary and frequently incomplete. There are a number of typos and errors, and the writing tends to be awkward and passive. The lack of maps is a serious detriment. The authors also assume familiarity with basic European history and Christianity. Andrew Langley's Da Vinci and His Times (DK, 2006), an "Eyewitness" book packed with detail, covers the entire era (despite its misleading title). Kathryn Hinds's The Church, part of the "Life in the Renaissance" series (Marshall Cavendish, 2003), does a better job with religious history and is more comprehensive than Flatt's book.—Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

Gr 3–6—Both books provide accurate, nonsensationalized information in well-organized, clearly written, and politically neutral texts. The photos are crisp, and, due to the subject matter, heartrending. The Fradins outline the factors that contributed to the disasters and then devote the remainder of the texts to the disasters themselves. There is also a brief discussion of issues that arose from them. In September 11th, the author writes briefly about the two fronts of the War on Terror, the Patriot Act, and health problems resulting from the attacks. The is less detailed than Andrew Santella's September 11th, 2001 (Children's Press, 2002), which is for a similar age group. In Hurricane Katrina, the authors explain why Katrina was so devastating and the need for disaster planning. There is no discussion of the progress made since the storm's destruction. The book is similar in scope to Mara Miller's Hurricane Katrina Strikes the Gulf Coast (Enslow, 2006).—Lisa Crandall, formerly at Capital Area District Library, Holt, MI

Gr 6 Up—There is always great interest in any aspect of popular music among middle and high school students. Generally, it centers on favorite performers, how the music is created and how it evolved, and careers in the field. These three books attempt to address all of these issues and more. Each one is clearly written, well organized, and copiously illustrated with full-color photographs of noted performers. All of them are good starting points for readers who know absolutely nothing about the genre featured. And this is where the problem arises. The presentations are simplistic to a fault, so that one must question the intended audience. Teenagers, a natural readership, would already know everything in these books. They would know special terms. Their search for in-depth information about the music itself, its performers, and its inner workings would start, quite naturally, with the Internet. There they can find Web sites dedicated to the music, to performers, and to careers, making these sorts of books superfluous. Still, should a library want to provide print sources for readers, these books do touch on many aspects of the current music scene.—Carol Jones Collins, Hanover Park High School, East Hanover, NJ

Gr 6–10—Pirates are much in the news at present, what with kidnappings off Somalia and ships threatened. This informative, beautifully illustrated book gives context to these modern-day buccaneers by presenting a cohesive, sequential look at the pirates who plied European, Caribbean, and African waters from AD 900 through the mid-19th century. Fitting European pirates neatly into their long legacy from the Aegean pirates of 4000 years ago, the author covers rationale, techniques, and common practices. His treatment of the Spanish conquistadores, who are often mentioned for their brutality but rarely considered in histories of piracy, is particularly eye-opening and thoughtful. Chapters on the more famous figures are succinct and informative. They include Sir Francis Drake, John Paul Jones, Henry Morgan, William "Blackbeard" Teach, Ann Bonny, Mary Read, and the fascinating Woodes Rogers, who went from privateer to appointment as captain general and governor in chief of the Bahamian archipelago, overseeing in that capacity the neutralization of the buccaneer community in the Caribbean. Gilkerson's scholarly background shows clearly in the pacing and vocabulary. The text is brisk and informative, and the reading level will challenge older middle school students, who will likely stick with it for the content. The illustrations, full-page, detailed paintings, are a sure draw as well. An attractive addition.—Ann Welton, Helen B. Stafford Elementary, Tacoma, WA

Gr 5–8—These books offer readers an important opportunity to become acquainted with a variety of social causes and to learn how to make a difference. In each volume, the first chapter spread defines the concept of being an activist, with reference to a specific cause. Animal Rights Activist discusses the differences between animal welfare and animal rights activists, related history, and such topics as vegetarianism, cruelty, and factory farming. Environmental Activist follows a similar format and, as in the other books, includes a chapter on noted members of the field, such as Al Gore, and student activists. In Human Rights Activist, the rights to life, freedom, and equality without regard to race, gender, religion, ability, age, or political opinion are discussed. There is no mention of discrimination with regard to sexual orientation. The central issue in Social Justice Activist is the concept of a society in which everyone is equal and receives fair treatment. Gender, race, poverty, homelessness, peace, and environmental issues are specific subjects considered. Each volume includes a short list of suggested Web sites that is introduced by a warning that they should be pre-screened by an adult—an unrealistic expectation and probably unnecessary with sites such as the World Wildlife Fund or the Sierra Club. Students researching animal rights may come across PETA's site anyway. These valuable works introduce new concepts and possible plans of action to students, but their presentation is for a younger audience than is realistic for the ideas discussed.—Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

Gr 6–10—Gore follows up his eye-opening An Inconvenient Truth (Viking, 2007) by presenting to young people the many possible solutions that might prevent future catastrophic climate changes. This very personal plea introduces the concept of choice on an individual, national, and global level. In chapters discussing a variety of subjects including carbon-free energy sources; forest conservation; overpopulation; and the psychological, political, and religious implications of action and inaction, Gore presents his information clearly and succinctly. Considering the grim prospects ahead, he remains optimistic about a future in which today's youth both understand the problems and are willing to accept the challenges of difficult solutions. He unflinchingly tackles the many forms of misinformation supported by those corporations and entities that stand a chance to lose profits by the changes in energy production and use. Colorful charts and illustrations help to clarify difficult concepts such as "black carbon," "albedo," and "cogeneration." The lack of a glossary, index, and bibliographic citations is unfortunate and may limit the use of the work for research. The book itself is a carbon-neutral publication, printed on post-consumer waste streams, thus adding little to the waste cycle. This is a vital addition to environmental science collections and will prove useful in classroom and science programs.—Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

Gr 5–8—In most respects, the third edition of this acclaimed book varies little from the 2004 edition with the same illustrations and most of the same text. Updates include information about the vaccination to prevent HPV, a summary of the 2007 Supreme Court ruling on abortion, and an explanation of the new birth-control drug, Implanon. A chapter about "Getting Information and Staying Safe on the Internet" has been added. While acknowledging that online sources can provide helpful information on topics related to puberty and sexual health, Harris encourages young people to verify the sites' accuracy with a trusted adult. She also cautions that some sites can be disturbing or dangerous and reminds readers to comply with family and school Internet policies. She warns against providing personal information or sending videos, photos, or messages that one wouldn't want distributed widely. Libraries should consider replacing the second edition as funds allow and definitely purchase updates for any other editions that remain on the shelves.—Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Gr 4–7—Each book offers a brief overview of the topic and then examines five related problems across the globe, providing explanations and two contemporary case studies per issue. Most pages have a "fast fact" circle that cites statistics or offers an informative tidbit. A final section describes how readers can help solve the problem by taking action in their communities. These colorful titles have attractive layouts and ample captioned, color photographs. Their major strength is their global perspective. An early spread offers a map of the world with cities and countries affected by the five problems highlighted. Not only will students be introduced to environmental issues, but they will also learn geography.—Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 4–6—The authors have done a remarkable job of discussing and describing these two enormous confrontations in a limited number of pages, emphasizing that these were not isolated battles. The books provide solid introductions, followed by three chapters, one of which is based on the personal experiences of a named soldier, and the other two covering broader historical details and strategies of the battle. Bold fonts introduce the major subtopics in each chapter. Illustrations (some effectively tinted) with helpful captions are featured on every page, and sometimes encompass spreads. Excellent maps and plenty of paintings and vintage photos enhance the texts. It is noteworthy that when a photo is not genuine, that fact is stated in the caption. For example, there are no photos of the midnight jumps of paratroopers over Normandy on D-Day; instead, a daylight photo taken over the Netherlands is used to illustrate the topic. Unfortunately, D-Day states, in the text and again in the time line, that V-E Day was May 7, 1945, whereas it was May 8 of that year. Both titles conclude with respectable further-reading lists and excellent bibliographies.—Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS

Gr 5–8—These titles all look at communities in America today, detailing earlier generations of immigrants and current arrivals who are making new lives, changing the American culture, and looking to the future. Each title includes many full-color photos, maps, and charts. Sidebars and subheadings break up the texts. All of the books do a good job of helping readers to understand the differences between undocumented and documented immigrants and describe the citizenship process. The topics of racism, stereotypes, and other issues related to integration into American society are sensitively covered. While there is some value in the regional clumping of these titles, it creates some concerns as well. West African Americans, for example, only has statistics of immigrants from Nigeria. This is certainly the largest group, but the resulting heavy focus on that country serves to mask some of the diversity of the region. These are books that will most likely be used for reports.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 4–8—Lourie skillfully describes the delicate three-way relationship that exists among the Iñupiat of Alaska, the bowhead whales, and the scientists who are there to collect data and study the animals. The Iñupiat have hunted bowheads for thousands of years and their very existence depends upon the harvesting of the leviathans. The scientists are there to determine whether the whaling done by these communities is sustainable and not decimating the bowhead population. Using a day-in-the-life format, Lourie follows one particular scientist, John Craighead George, as he goes about collecting the necessary data. The biologist is careful not to disturb the integrity of the harvest and, in fact, works closely with the Iñupiat to do what he needs to do. Interwoven throughout this daylong saga are historical information, scientific facts, and cultural tradition. Crisp color photographs on every page provide a lush complement to the engaging, informative text. Young readers will come away with a stronger appreciation of the bowhead whales, the people who both hunt and respect them, and the scientists who straddle the traditional and modern worlds to gather important information. An excellent addition to any collection.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 4–7—These titles contain just enough information to impress upon readers the risks involved in these occupations. Appropriate vocabulary is used to describe some of the basic duties and the dangers encountered by individuals at work in these fields. The main text is printed in black while lengthy quotations by pilots and EODs (Explosive Ordnance Disposal engineers) are printed in white. (The identities of those quoted have been changed for their protection since most are in currently active military situations.) The quotations are somewhat difficult to read because of the lack of contrast. High-quality color photos, most of them furnished by the Department of Defense, vary from half to full page. Informative captions are printed in a contrasting color on the photo. A light yellow bar containing additional information is sometimes superimposed at the top or bottom of the full-page photos. These are among the best titles of this genre to come along since Keith Greenberg's "Risky Business" series (Gale) in the mid '90s. They are sure to be popular.—Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS

Gr 10 Up—Although this is not strictly a book for young adults, the length of the essays (most are under 10 pages) and the well-balanced viewpoints make it a good choice for teens looking to learn about the Iraq war beyond the headlines. Sections cover planning for the war, its conduct, the Department of Defense, and the use of national power. Contributors include senators, military leaders, academics, and foreign-policy experts. Many of the essays have a "lessons learned" theme. Those on the lack of real planning for the war and declining media coverage of Iraq would make interesting starting points for discussions on current events. Some of the more technical essays would make good source material for research papers. No end matter is included, other than biographical sketches of the contributors.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

Gr 9 Up—Divided into eight chapters, this volume explains the various means to treat and eliminate waste. Emphasizing that waste management is a global issue, chapters explore incineration, vitrification, solidification and stabilization, compaction, and wastewater treatment. Each chapter begins with a concise overview introducing the main points and ends with a conclusion summarizing those items. Numerous sidebars and case studies offer examples of relevant programs across the globe, charts, graphs, illustrations, and photographs. The central theme of the book is WTE, waste-to-energy: how everyone can reduce the amount of waste and how technology can be used to find innovative ways to turn it into a useful by-product. A useful resource and reference book for advanced science students.—Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 7 Up—This well-written title examines many of the details preceding the 1911 disaster, the conditions that caused it, and the impact the incident continues to have on labor and businesses today. Historical accounts of the event, told through numerous direct quotes and shown in black-and-white photos of sweatshops and descriptions of tenement living conditions, reveal that poor labor laws and factory regulations were to blame. Marsico's first chapter describes the impact of the Industrial Revolution on New York's Garment District. Discussing the demand for factory workers and the clothing they made, and the influx of immigrants in need of work, the book explores the long hours and crowded and unsanitary work environment of female garment laborers, all causes of concern for social reformers at the time. Successive chapters include detailed accounts of the fire and resulting trial, efforts to improve and enforce building regulations, child-labor laws, women's rights, the Fair Labor Standards Act to set minimum wages and weekly hours, and efforts to continue to prevent violations of wage and safety laws. Color photos and full-page sidebars provide additional information. A time line summarizes labor events from 1800 to the present.—Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE

Gr 7–10—Each guide begins with a definition of research followed by an overview of the topic's history. The authors define primary and secondary sources and describe how to formulate research questions, begin research using a variety of print and electronic sources, evaluate sources, organize and properly cite material, avoid plagiarism, and present results in various formats. Although there are minor differences in content, all three books describe basic research techniques, suggest strategies such as using a KWL chart (What I Know, What I Want to Know, and What I Learned) and SQ3R (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review) for initiating and organizing work, and show students how to create time lines and use graphic organizers. Sidebars and graphics supplement the texts. The titles include general and topic-specific sources; "Find Out More" sections include books, Web sites, places to visit, and additional research topics. While students may find these books to be somewhat helpful, much of the advice is widely taught in classrooms and can also be found in general and topical research guides on the Internet. Most students would be better served by books that provide better historical content and analysis, either in series such as "Images and Issues of Women in the Twentieth Century" (21st Century Bks.) and "Slavery in American History" (Enslow) or individual titles such as R. Conrad Stein's The Industrial Revolution: Manufacturing a Better America (Enslow, 2006).—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 9 Up—In her introduction, Nye shies away from laying out her parameters for inclusion, but rather paints a picture of the stumbling, exploratory passage into adulthood that she hopes the voices in the collection will convey. True to form, the young poets may be vastly separated by experience, ethnicity, and gender, but are linked by a common humanity and a desire to make sense of their unfolding life experiences through language. They struggle with race, slurred words, absent loved ones, and unrealized dreams while reveling in snow crystals and childhood memories. From Gray Emerson's "The Indexer in Love," a playful approach to the oft-hackneyed love poem, to Talah Abu Rahmeh's powerful "The Falling Man," a heartbreaking ode to those who fell from the Twin Towers, these selections are diverse in content and form. They are also alternately raw, poignant, quiet, and loud. They are many things, but never amateurish. Readers will have no trouble finding little pieces of themselves in this beautifully orchestrated collection.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 2–7—There are fresh ideas aplenty in this beautifully designed craft book, ranging from a fort-construction set based on Ray and Charles Eames's House of Cards, to crushed-foil beads inspired by Anni Albers's jewelry. Readers will learn to make a Calderesque mobile and printed textiles inspired by Marimekko patterns. Most youngsters would probably benefit from more examples of work by the designers cited, who are introduced in spreads featuring rather terrible rhymes ("Isamu Noguchi, who hails from Japan/also made rice paper lamps on a scale that was grand."). Interstitial pages introducing various types of art supplies and techniques, while labeled "All about…," seem superfluous. However, the projects themselves are appealing, their processes clearly documented, and, except in a few cases, the results pictured are not so perfect as to create unrealistic expectations. There are projects here simple enough for primary grades, while others that require the use of a sewing machine are more suitable for older children. Most materials are inexpensive and/or easily obtainable, but some are more specialized (e.g., a blank natural wood skateboard deck). Extremely good back matter includes lists of museums to visit; artist Web sites to explore; arts and crafts stores; blogs; and a reading list of craft books, art books, and those devoted to design philosophy. Inspiring and appealing, for art aficionados or dedicated crafters.—Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD

Gr 3–6—As part of a larger series about money, this entry aims to explain in a simple, concrete manner how the economy works and how it affects everyone's daily life. The law of supply and demand is described in some depth with child-friendly, specific examples to clarify the concepts. The cycles of an economy, from expansion through prosperity, recession, and into recovery, are also covered, with historical and current events used to make these abstract ideas more accessible. Opening and closing chapters use a fictional classroom setting to introduce and wrap up the topic, as students and a teacher discuss these ideas and phrases that are showing up more and more in family conversation as well as in the media. While the focus is on the American economy, there are brief descriptions of other types. The writing is fairly lively, filled with questions and real-world examples thrown in to keep kids interested. Photographs, on the other hand, while colorful and depicting a large swathe of the population, are really just decorative and do not add much to illuminate the text. Overall, this is a fine choice for introducing the concept of economy and how it functions in society, but for more depth, readers may have to turn elsewhere.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 7 Up—This timely book covers racial profiling as practiced in the United States since the terrorist attacks of 9/11, when it has come to center on young men of Middle Eastern extraction. It provides background by discussing the profiling of immigrants during the so-called Red Scare of the early 1900s and the internment of hundreds of thousands of Japanese Americans during World War II. Orr presents arguments for and against the practice in focused, clearly written essays that will help students become informed. The selections discuss how racial profiling is done, its history in this country, why it does or does not work, and why it is or is not needed. The various chapters are well laid out, and the arguments are nicely paced, utilizing quotes from experts on terrorism and lawyers, legislators, and those charged with U.S. security. There are plenty of color photographs. This book will enhance most collections.—Carol Jones Collins, Hanover Park High School, East Hanover, NJ

Gr 4–6—Jam-packed with trivia, brief profiles, god and goddess relationships, stories, "Top 10 Things to Know About Me" facts, and entertaining illustrations, this title explores 20 heroes and mortals of classic Greek mythology. The selections include the well-known Achilles, Heracles, Odysseus, and Pandora and the more obscure Meleager, Orion, Atalanta, and Bellerophon; each one is given lively treatment. A helpful introduction, a glossary, recommended Web sites, and a family tree complete the package and make this a treasure trove of facts for report writers. While somewhat cluttered, the lighthearted style and humorous collage and cartoon illustrations may draw even the most reluctant of readers. However, those with some knowledge of Greek myths will get the most out of it, and laugh at the inside jokes. Useful for collections where mythology is popular and part of the local curriculum.—Angela J. Reynolds, Annapolis Valley Regional Library, Bridgetown, NS, Canada

Gr 4–7—From South Asia and the ancient Near East come these exciting tales of great heroes and memorable deities who are fully as interesting as the Greek myths currently in vogue. With plenty of framing text, the stories inspire the imagination, entertain, and allow readers to draw their own conclusions about the universality of human experience. The language is straightforward but has enough variation in sentence structure to keep the reading lively. Pronunciation help is provided. Liberally illustrated with large and vibrant reproductions of artwork in diverse media, the books reflect the grace and opulence of these ancient cultures as well as the more vividly grotesque expressions of imagination. Margins and text spacing are generous, with accents in copper and bronze hues consonant with the antiquity of the stories. It can be tricky relating the traditional stories of a living faith such as Hinduism or Zoroastrianism, and this is reflected in occasional conflict between "is" and "was" in discussions of beliefs and practices, especially in Ancient India. Anita Nair's The Puffin Book of Magical Indian Myths (2008) covers some of the same territory as that book, and in a fancier package, but Persians truly fills a gap.—Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD

Gr 5 Up—The song "We Shall Overcome" immediately evokes a multitude of images and thoughts that include struggle, faith, pain, and hope, among others. This thoughtful and informative book examines the reasons why it has had such an impact by delving into its origins, lyrics, and transformation throughout history. The remarkable path of the song is traced from its beginnings as a moving spiritual in 1863, to the unifying force behind the labor movement in 1909, as the anthem of the Civil Rights Movement, and, finally, to worldwide usage in such faraway places as North Korea and Beirut. With its compelling historical evidence, poignant individual stories, clear writing, and accompanying black-and-white photographs and reproductions and graphics done in red, white, and black, this book will be a wonderful addition to any collection. The lyrics and melody of the song and a CD of Pete Seeger's version of it are included.—Margaret Auguste, Franklin Middle School, Somerset, NJ

Gr 5–8—Wallach, the president of Wilhelmina Kids & Teens modeling agency, knows her audience and lends a credible feel to these books. Chapters in Beauty cover hair and makeup and skin care, and those in Look address such topics as finding colors that will look good and closet organization. Both titles include a "Just Ask Marlene" question-and-answer section and a final quiz. The art design is satisfactory even with the slightly stock feel of some photos, but there are several fill-in sections. Wallach's beauty and fashion tips skew heavily toward current trends and liberal use of beauty products. The tone is upbeat and encourages girls to look beyond the pages of fashion, yet the photos, like those in today's magazines for girls and women, only show models who are slim and chic. The look is funky (though some would balk at the whole idea of fashion and makeup books for tweens from the outset). There's nothing new or different here, but the overall design and cheerful tone provide a solid guide for fashion-forward devotees of Seventeen and Teen Vogue.—Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta

Gr 8 Up—A comprehensive, accessible reference guide. The first two parts cover the basics of caring for skin, hair, and nails. Part three addresses causes and treatments for acne, including safety concerns about Accutane (information on the iPLEDGE program is new to this edition). Subsequent sections cover cancer, other diseases, and how to care for injuries such as burns and animal bites. Sources for each topic include reputable Web sites, government agencies, and professional associations that are clearly cited on the first page of every chapter. The volume concludes with a reading list and organizations to contact for more information. "Quick Tips" and "Remember!!" sidebars provide reminders about detecting potential problems, adopting healthy habits, and communicating with health-care providers. A handful of black-and-white photos and drawings illustrate the content. Many chapters have been updated and/or rewritten altogether, bringing this new edition up to the minute. One stylistic change is the appearance of bulleted lists that break up long paragraphs. New topics include genetic conditions that affect the skin, hyperhidrosis, lupus, scabies, and warnings about ceramic flat irons. Gone are chapters on blushing, cat scratch disease, and dandruff. Fortunately, the text has not lost its clear, levelheaded tone. Purchase of this new edition is recommended for libraries with a strong demand for health-care resources.—Amy Pickett, Ridley High School, Folsom, PA

Gr 6–10—Simeon Wright was 12 years old when his cousin Emmett "Bobo" Till came from Chicago to visit relatives in Mississippi. Spunky and bold, Till amused everyone with his comedic timing. It was his desire to get a laugh that led to his demise. One hot August night in 1955, Till whistled at a white female store clerk, setting off a chain of events that left an indelible mark not only on our nation's history, but also on the cousin who witnessed Till's gaffe and eventual kidnapping. Wright's story is chilling, and his honest account will hook readers from the beginning. His description of growing up in Mississippi under Jim Crow laws provides the necessary background for teens to understand what transpired in the time between Till's deadly mistake and the discovery of his body days later. Wright also details the toll the murder took on his family, his eventual move to Chicago, and his unsuccessful search for justice for Emmett Till. An appendix entitled "Lies, Myths, and Distortions" serves to discredit many of the misconceptions surrounding Till's death. It ends, "If you want an accurate account of any story, go to the primary sources. They know what really happened." Truer words were never spoken.—Kelly McGorray, Glenbard South High School, Glen Ellyn, IL

Gr 10 Up—A comprehensive presentation on the Rangers' participation in the Allied invasion of the Normandy coast on D-Day. Facts concerning the activities at Pointe-du-Hoc prior to and following June 6, 1944, have not always been clear. The text, which is rather scholarly, indicates that thorough research has been done. The introduction does a nice job of setting the stage for readers who may not be familiar with Operation Flashlamp. The remainder of the text covers the planning and the execution of the raid. There are several detailed color maps, though one seems to have an incomplete key. One chart contains bombing attack data and another lists the leadership of both the 2nd and 5th Ranger Battalions. Vintage black-and-white photos and a limited number of well-captioned color photos appear on almost every page. A chevron design containing time, date, and battle appears as a sidebar on occasion. An analysis and further-reading suggestions conclude this outstanding title. The only criticisms are the small size of the font and the lack of a map showing Pointe-du-Hoc in relationship to the rest of the Normandy coast. This title belongs in high school and public libraries.—Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS