Grades 5 & Up

Gr 5–8—Maya, 13; her younger brother, Simon; and baby Penny are left adrift and alone on the ship on which they live after their marine-scientist parents go overboard during a mighty storm. When the storm pushes the Pamela Jane into the land of Tamarind, the children fall into the middle of a long war over a magical mineral. This war has decimated the civilization and left the people to fear for their lives. Moving man-eating vines entrap the children and their ship, tribes of terrified people live in trees in the clouds, a Stealer of children enslaves the young to dig in her mine for the precious mineral, and pirates lurk around every cove. It is up to Maya and Simon to find their parents, and in the process, they just might help end the war. Each detail of this fantasy is crafted with care; readers will be drawn into this dangerous, magical world where anything is possible and nothing can be fully explained. The adventure moves along at a fast clip, and, as each chapter passes, the children develop more as characters. The language and style of writing evoke wonderful images of fantastical creatures such as giants and mermaids. Young people will be transported to a world so different from the one they currently inhabit, following along as Maya and Simon escape their adversaries and struggle to survive in this hostile land.—Jennifer-Lynn Draper, Children's Literature Consultant, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Gr 6–10—Set in New York City at the beginning of the American Revolution, Chains addresses the price of freedom both for a nation and for individuals. Isabel tells the story of her life as a slave. She was sold with her five-year-old sister to a cruel Loyalist family even though the girls were to be free upon the death of their former owner. She has hopes of finding a way to freedom and becomes a spy for the rebels, but soon realizes that it is difficult to trust anyone. She chooses to find someone to help her no matter which side he or she is on. With short chapters, each beginning with a historical quote, this fast-paced novel reveals the heartache and struggles of a country and slave fighting for freedom. The characters are well developed, and the situations are realistic. An author's note gives insight into issues surrounding the Revolutionary War and the fight for the nation's freedom even though 20 percent of its people were in chains. Well researched and affecting in its presentation, the story offers readers a fresh look at the conflict and struggle of a developing nation.—Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD

Gr 9 Up—Amanda Himmelfarb is the constant victim of The Captain, aka her mother, who spends most of her energies either fighting with Amanda's father or being cruel to her older daughter. As the family drives to Myrtle Beach, where Amanda is eagerly awaiting a reunion with her love interest from the previous summer, her parents argue incessantly. Although she is a beautiful and intelligent young woman, as well as a talented poet, her mother's constant disapproval has left her with dangerously low self-esteem, and she goes from one disastrous sexual experience to another, allowing herself to be used in hopes of gaining acceptance. When she begins secretly "dating" Rick Hayes, she is blind to the fact that he is clearly only interested in her for sex. Ultimately, she agrees to lose her virginity to him in exchange for him "going public" with their relationship at the homecoming dance. Sadly, she spends most of her time in the back of his van, only to have Rick go back to his girlfriend moments after he has sex with Amanda. Through a heart-to-heart with her loving aunt, the teen is able to forgive herself for her mistakes and hopefully move on to make wiser decisions in the future. Rife with raw emotions, the sex scenes are both graphic and sad, leaving readers cringing at Amanda's self-defeating behavior. The tension throughout the novel is so palpable that it is often exhausting. The story moves at a quick pace, however, thanks to Amanda's honest and often humorous voice, as well as her thoughtful poetry interjected throughout.—Michelle Roberts, Merrick Library, NY

Gr 4–8—Ronde and Tiki Barber are entering eighth grade and ready to defend their school's title as football division champs. Unfortunately, their beloved coach announces that he has accepted a job at the nearby high school. On top of that, their quarterback is dividing the team with his hotdogging antics and insults. The Barber twins are convinced that, if they can get the team to listen to their new coach, they can salvage the season. The authors are NFL players and know a thing or two about football. Unfortunately, this novel uses terminology that may be too complex for all but the most passionate fans of the game. A glossary is included, but a solid familiarity with terms and rules is still necessary or kids will be left behind. An adult sensibility prevails: a former teammate declares that a player is "just immature…. I was the same way in seventh grade." On the same note, in the midst of training, Tiki has an inner monologue about how lucky he is "in the mom department"—what 13-year-old thinks about that during football practice? This book will circulate based on the subject, the authors' popularity, and the snazzy cover. However, it will satisfy only the most avid football fans.—Laura Lutz, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 7–9—Duncan Boone is hopelessly in love with Carly Garfield, his high school's resident perfect girl and do-gooder, who has no idea he exists. He talks about her constantly with his two best friends and fellow musicians. Though their band has yet to book a gig, possibly due to its identity crisis and subsequent stylistic and name changes, they have fun hanging out. When Duncan slips during practice and gets walloped with a speaker, leaving his face a black-and-blue mess, things unexpectedly begin to look up with Carly. She misunderstands his bruises and decides that he is her next underdog in need of protection. But to keep her attention, Duncan needs to find a bully to help him play the part of victim. While it's refreshing to see a girl in the white-knight role, this novel falls flat. The dialogue tries too hard to be hip and funny, constantly dropping references to music and pop culture that feel out of place and forced. The characters are never fully fleshed out. Duncan is unlikable and it is difficult to care if he attains his goals. Although filled with potentially humorous moments, the book's weaknesses drag it down.—Jessie Spalding, Tempe Public Library, AZ

Gr 6–8—When his estranged grandfather passes away, Michael Kimmel, 13, begins to feel a weird eeriness that develops into moments where he "slips" into the world of his grandfather's memories. He begins to communicate with the deceased, learning more about his sad and dysfunctional relationship with his son, Michael's father. Each "slip" into the dead man's mind brings the teen dangerously closer to his own passing as he becomes increasingly unable to "slip" out of "the river of the dead." First-time author Bell has created a gripping supernatural fantasy and psychological drama, blending family controversies with coming-of-age issues of peer acceptance and success. Michael's concerns over his height and abilities on the basketball court are continually overshadowed by his own strained relationship with his demanding father. Michael is a well-developed protagonist balanced by four supporting roles: his older sister, Julia; best friend, Gus; and new friends Ewan and Trip, fleshing out a teen-centered story with adults clearly taking an ancillary role. Persuasive descriptions of Michael's physical pain and psychological exertions climax in a vivid death-defying scene. An interesting short addendum on the fact or fictions of "time slips" will keep readers wondering about the plausibility of a loved-one's connection between death and life.—Rita Soltan, Youth Services Consultant, West Bloomfield, MI

Gr 10 Up—Block is known for her fantastical, edgy, and highly feminized stories of young women, and this book fits neatly into that mold. Blood Roses consists of nine loosely connected short selections focusing on elemental and magical changes in each character. In "Skin Art," straitlaced Elodie Sweet finds tattoos mysteriously appearing on her body as romantic tension—and obsession—builds between herself and an older tattoo artist. With each new tattoo, her perception of herself grows and changes, but she ultimately finds that the tattoos are only superficial and disappear as she realizes that she is not in love with the man. In "Wounds and Wings," Audrey finds a fairy whose wings have been cruelly torn off. She takes him home to nurse him to health and learns to see the similarity between his injuries and insecurities and her own. The characters walk a fine line between the mundane and magical. It is impossible to decide if they are sane or not, or if it even matters. Blood Roses, like Block's other books, brims with sexual suggestion that is meant for more mature teens. This short book will appeal to reluctant readers, though Block's fans will find it on their own.—Stephanie L. Petruso, Anne Arundel County Public Library, Odenton, MD

Gr 9 Up—Growing up with her grandmother in Bronxwood, 14-year-old Kendra Williamson is waiting for Renée, her 28-year-old mom, to finish school so they can get their own place. Kendra can't help but feel abandoned when her mother gets her PhD at Princeton and then moves to a studio apartment in Harlem, once again leaving her daughter behind. When her grandmother's restrictive rules, her crush's physical attention, and her friend's self-absorption become overwhelming, Kendra gets her chance to live with her mother and learn whether Renée can be a true parent. Booth has a talent for emotional honesty. When Kendra confronts her mother about her previous choices and learns that, if she could change the past, she would not keep Kendra, the feelings of abandonment and betrayal radiate from the page. The convoluted but redeeming friendship between Kendra and her best friend and aunt, Adonna, resonates with heartbreak and honesty. Teens will appreciate Kendra's internal justification monologues, especially in relation to her Nana; Booth balances that self-examination with street fights to further engage her audience. Adults act as fully realized characters, serving as disciplinarians and mentors, not moralizing preachers. Kendra's quick acquiescence to anal sex seems to be too fast, though this and all other sex scenes are neither graphic nor gratuitous. From Bronx blocks to Harlem hangouts, Booth delivers dynamic characters and an engaging story.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

Gr 4–6—This stand-alone sequel to The Name of This Book Is Secret (Little, Brown, 2007) combines mystery, adventure, and fantasy. On their mission for the Terces Society, 11-year-old Cass and Max-Ernest must find the homunculus, a 500-year-old man born in a bottle, before Dr. L and Ms. Mauvais do. The evil duo plans to use him to uncover the secret of immortality. The use of an overbearing narrator to create a sense of danger works in the beginning, but grows tiresome toward the end. The numerous parenthetical comments and footnotes are often laugh-out-loud funny, but also draw readers out of the action. Bosch creates sufficiently quirky, well-rounded protagonists, while stereotypes suffice for the secondary characters, with the exception of the homunculus. Cynical humor shines through in the portrayal of the Skelton Sisters, an evil tween pop group in the employ of Dr. L and Ms. Mauvais. The dark illustrations, descending chapter numbers, and playful fonts will catch readers' attention. Fans of Lemony Snicket's "A Series of Unfortunate Events" (HarperCollins) will enjoy this slightly more fleshed-out read.—Kim Ventrella, Ralph Ellison Library, Oklahoma City, OK

Gr 4–8—Broach combines discussion about the art of Albrecht Dürer with a powerful tale of friendship in a novel that is entertaining and full of adventure. Marvin is a beetle, and he and his family live in the Manhattan kitchen that belongs to the Pompaday family. When James receives a pen-and-ink drawing set for his 11th birthday, Marvin discovers that he is a bug with artistic talent. Although he can't speak to James, they soon bond in a true interspecies friendship, and their escapades begin. Because of Marvin's wonderful drawing, presumed to be James's work, the boy is recruited to create a fake Dürer for the Metropolitan Museum of Art to help trap an art thief. Marvin produces the forgery, but he soon realizes that the original artwork is in danger. Only by placing his life on the line and relying on James's help can he save the masterpiece. Broach's projection of beetle life, complete with field trips to the family's solarium and complex uses of human discards for furniture and meals, is in the best tradition of Mary Norton's The Borrowers (Harcourt, 1953) and similar classic looks at miniature life. Murphy's illustrations add perspective and humor, supporting the detailed narrative. A masterpiece of storytelling.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

Gr 7–10—Insecure about her underdeveloped, awkward body, 14-year-old Anaíd Tsinoulis hides her mature, clever mind from cruel, teasing peers. When her beautiful mother, Selene, disappears from their home in the Pyrenees, Anaíd discovers some startling things. She is an Omar witch and Selene is the suspected "Chosen One," prophesied to end the long, nasty war between the Omars (benevolent witches) and the Odish (self-obsessed, human-blood-drinking witches bent on immortality). With her body and powers developing double time, a coven of well-meaning ladies making things claustrophobic, and evil Odish on the loose, Anaíd fights to find her mother, despite the possibility that Selene has turned traitor. She learns to trust in herself, discovering that situations and people aren't always what they seem. Bits of realism lurk beneath this slightly clichéd fantasy, and readers will relate to Anaíd's desire for acceptance and growing independence. The lore is appealing, reminiscent of European old wives' tales with magic steeped in nature and the pitting of faith and selflessness against fear and selfishness. Amid the danger, betrayals, and magic lessons are convenient quick-fix conjurings, some superficial resolutions (Anaíd's sudden beauty sparks instant approval), occasional awkward or unnatural dialogue, and adversaries that seem too easily defeated. Consider only for larger collections with a big fantasy fan base.—Danielle Serra, Cliffside Park Public Library, NJ

Gr 8 Up—In this debut fantasy novel, Cashore treats readers to compelling and eminently likable characters and a story that draws them in from the first paragraph. In Katsa's world, the "Graced," those gifted in a particular way, are marked by eyes that are different colors. Katsa's Grace is that she is a gifted fighter, and, as such, she is virtually invincible. She is in the service of her tyrannical uncle, king of one of the seven kingdoms, and she is forced to torture people for infractions against him. She has secretly formed the Council, which acts in the service of justice and fairness for those who have been accused and abused. Readers meet her as she is rescuing the father of the Lienid king, who has been abducted. The reasons for his capture are part of a tightening plot that Katsa unravels and resolves, with the help of Prince Po, the captive's grandson. He has his own particular Grace, and he becomes Katsa's lover and partner in what becomes a mortally dangerous mission. Cashore's style is exemplary: while each detail helps to paint a picture, the description is always in the service of the story, always helping readers to a greater understanding of what is happening and why. This is gorgeous storytelling: exciting, stirring, and accessible. Fantasy and romance readers will be thrilled.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

Gr 10 Up—This installment picks up exactly where Betrayed (St. Martin's, 2007) left off. Zoey Redbird, leader of the Dark Daughters and vampyre fledgling extraordinaire, has discovered some mysterious and disturbing events occurring at her vampyre finishing school. Her ex-roommate and best friend, Stevie Rae, is "undead" and only due to Zoey's love and belief that she still possesses some humanity has Stevie Rae not become a true monster. Zoey must quickly find a way to reverse what has been done to her before it is too late. To complicate matters, Zoey is forced to keep this a secret from her friends and has been betrayed by her mentor and advisor, Neferet. Zoey knows that Neferet is behind the creation of these "undead" creatures and is not at all what she seems. For help, she turns to her rival, Aphrodite, who becomes her confidante and partner in crime. Horror strikes the House of Night when two professors end up brutally murdered. Cast takes the series up a notch with this installment, and readers will be on the edge of their seats waiting for its continuation. This book is a must for any library with a vampire following—but it does contain explicit language and sexual situations.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

Gr 6 Up—In this final installment in the trilogy, Chima spins a finely structured tale that roars to a satisfying conclusion. For readers new to the series, there is considerable work to be done sorting out the plot and the relationships among the various characters, but after a while the power of the story takes over. The wizarding world is fractured and at war with itself. The only hope for peace lies in those few unaffiliated gifted ones (wizards, warriors, enchanters) in the sanctuary of the town of Trinity. As the novel opens, one of these characters, Jason, steals into the hold of another faction and walks out with a mysterious magical object that appears to be extremely powerful: the Dragonheart. When he brings it back to Trinity, the town and its treasure become the focus of the other factions. The action is largely propelled by the emotional needs and weaknesses of the characters, and not simply by their magical abilities. Madison Moss, whose ability to absorb magic enabled her to save her wizard boyfriend, is now a danger to Seph because she keeps leaking the toxic magic that she absorbed. Her fear that this will be discovered, along with her family problems, leads to her making decisions that put her and others in mortal danger. Maddie, along with Jason and Seph, is the central emotional focus, and it is the details of their lives that make the extraordinary plot twists exciting and compelling. Fans of the first two books are sure to love this one.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

Gr 3–6—Twins Ray and Jay Grayson have recently moved to Ohio. For years the boys have longed to be seen as individuals rather than as "part of a pair." Due to a "clerical oversight," their first week of sixth grade gives them the chance. Ray stays home sick the first day, and Jay is on his own. He enjoys meeting his new classmates, but he is a bit baffled that no one, not even his teachers, seems to know that his brother exists. After some investigation, he realizes that the school only has records for one of them. Hilarity—and confusion—ensues as the boys take turns being Jay. This novel is true to form for Clements. Relationships are well developed and realistic, and the author shows a strong understanding of the experience of being a twin. The use of similar names for the protagonists makes following the plot a bit confusing at times, but readers will quickly turn the pages to find out what the boys are up to next and whether they will be caught. The full-page pencil illustrations are a bit misleading—they are not always in sync with the author's description of Ray and Jay as "completely identical." Although this book is not as memorable as Frindle (S & S, 1996) and some of Clements's other novels, it is a treat for those who are into the author's brand of "that could totally happen at my school" fiction.—Jessica Kerlin, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Parma, OH

Gr 4–8—Fourteen-year-old genius and mastermind Artemis Fowl realizes that he has a problem. His mother is nearing death and the only thing that can save her is the brain fluid from a species of lemur that he forced into extinction eight years earlier. He decides that he must travel back in time to right this terrible wrong but his younger self is present in the past and proceeds to challenge the older Artemis's every move. At the older Artemis's side is elf Captain Holly Short of the Lower Elements Police Reconnaissance (LEPrecon) and Mulch Diggums, a dwarf known for his potent flatulence and ground-munching abilities. The trio struggle to circumvent destiny but find the past fraught with deception. The story flows with quick-witted humor and action-packed scenes, and Colfer's love of science shines through in the story's inventions and clever use of engineering. The dueling technology and a game match between clashing masterminds make for an exciting, modern-day fairy tale. There is no integration of previous story lines; while this does not take away from the resolution, it does leave readers questioning some backstory. The author once again offers an exhilarating ride through the fantastical world of Artemis Fowl.—Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

Gr 10 Up—The "Year of Dreams" continues for Harper, Kate, Becca, and Sophie, BFF. In Bass Ackwards and Belly Up (Little, Brown, 2006), Harper, because she did not get into NYU, told a little white lie—that she decided to take a year off before college to follow her dream to write a novel. Admiring her bravery, her best friends make a pact to follow their own aspirations—Becca wants to fall in love, Sophie wants to be an actress, and Kate dumps her acceptance to Harvard to find herself by backpacking through Europe. The story continues in this sequel as the girls persist in their efforts while pursuing romantic interests. The events are related through each protagonist's point of view, and the narrative is filled with the label-dropping shallowness of the day. There are sex scenes, strong language, and lots of cute boys. Settings such as a hip Denver coffee shop, Hollywood, and a private college in Vermont, with a humanitarian trip to Ethiopia thrown in, should entice plenty of eager readers, especially fans of the first book. While the story does move quickly and has a decent story line, it's not worthy of the A-list of chick lit.—Angela J. Reynolds, Annapolis Valley Regional Library, Bridgetown, NS, Canada

Gr 4–8—In this worthy sequel to Love That Dog (HarperCollins, 2001), Jack is once again in Miss Stretchberry's class, developing his poetry composition skills and learning from the masters. His Uncle Bill disparages the free-verse form and mundane subjects, stressing the importance of metaphor, alliteration, onomatopoeia, and LARGE moments. But Jack works his way into these concepts by means of Miss S's introduction to the work of Edgar Allan Poe, T. S. Eliot, William Carlos Williams, Valerie Worth, and Walter Dean and Chris Myers, and her constant encouragement of his own attempts. Jack, still healing from the loss of his dog, resists getting a new pet and despises an aloof neighborhood black cat with which he has an unpleasant run-in. He also grapples with putting into words his feelings about his mother, who is deaf, a fact that is slowly and deftly revealed in his poems. When the Christmas-present kitten he has learned to love disappears, Jack grieves anew, until the despised black cat saves the day. Once again, all of the poems are addressed to Miss Stretchberry, and Jack's growing excitement as he discovers the delights of sound ("Tintinnabulation!") and expression is palpable. He also learns the poetry of silence as he and his mother communicate through sign language and tender gestures. The relevant poems are included at the end of the book, along with a hefty bibliography of "Books on the Class Poetry Shelf." Readers will be touched and inspired once more.—Marie Orlando, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY

Gr 9 Up—It's 1938, and in the world that 15-year-old Sophie inhabits, England fell to Napoleon at Waterloo, scientists work together with spiritualists, and hydrogen-powered cars move people around Scotland's streets. An unsettling session with a medium sets Sophie on edge, but her Great-Aunt Tabitha's vehement opposition to IRYLNSY, a program for women that her aunt founded, confuses the teen more than the cryptic message about a pending journey that she received. The medium's sudden death prompts Sophie and her friend Mikael to investigate, and they are soon plunged into a turbulent political battleground, one that threatens the future of Scotland and the rest of the world. Without stretching credulity too far, readers should be able to accept the odd blend of modern and primitive technology in the text; it seems odd that fuel-cell technology exists, but dynamite remains the most powerful explosive known. Sophie and Great-aunt Tabitha's antagonism toward one another regarding the morality of IRYLNSY lacks the depth necessary to draw readers into the debate; Davidson herself seems almost convinced that turning promising young women into emotional Dumpsters for men is entirely appropriate. With an uncertain resolution that all but demands a sequel, the book will appeal to fans of alternative historical fiction, who will be waiting for the next installment. Blending physics, politics, and possibilities, Davidson's novel also holds some appeal to fringe historical and mystical readers.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—Terrorists design a virus to take over the world, but something goes wrong. On a vacation at the Isles of Wonder, a theme park similar to Disney World, Josh and his little sister watch as all of the adults die around them, leaving them and thousands of others under age 13 to fend for themselves. With no other choice, the youngsters start working to create their own society, barricading themselves from the outside world and its dangers. Led by the charismatic Milo, a group of the older children become the central government, the Core. Eventually, barricades will not be enough to keep danger out of their utopian world and the community will be threatened in unexpected ways. This thriller has gripping writing that makes it hard to put down. The characterizations of the older children are well done, especially the main protagonists. The details of the society that the children create are nicely crafted, as is the setting of the theme park. As the book's pacing picks up toward the end, the darkness, uncertainty, and violence are well handled. The themes of safety and danger speak to our larger society as well. Even with the large number of survival stories on the market, this is one worth adding to your collection.—Tasha Saecker, Menasha Public Library, WI

Gr 9 Up—This short novel examines the life of a boy with bulimia. Parker Rabinowitz, 17, is good-looking, smart, and rich; he's bound to get into Princeton. He is expected to maintain perfect grades, participate in multiple extracurricular activities and service projects, and, in other words, be the perfect son. His sister, Danielle, is jealous of the attention he gets, but she is the first to notice that something is terribly wrong. Parker is binging uncontrollably, and then forcing himself to vomit. What starts out as an occasional stress release becomes an obsession controlling his life. His downward spiral climaxes when he convulses in his bathroom. He is rushed to the hospital, and after his "recovery" begins therapy. The narrative alternates between Parker and Danielle. Although the ending is a little too neat, the novel does a good job of letting readers inside the head of someone who is suffering from an eating disorder. Compelling reading.—Robin Henry, Griffin Middle School, Frisco, TX

Gr 7–10—In a series of free-verse poems, Libertad describes the events leading up to his mother's accidental death in the Guatemalan dump where the family picks garbage and his subsequent journey north with his little brother, Julio, and a dog to find his father in the United States. Desperate and determined, the boys depend on their wits, the kindness of people they meet on their way, and a bit of good fortune. They play a marimba picked from the trash, work in fields and a tortilla factory, and even beg on the streets of Mexico City. Basing her story on the experiences of actual migrant children, Fullerton conveys their struggle in simple but carefully chosen words and images. The suspense is real and though readers may question some of the choices Libertad makes along the way, they will celebrate his perseverance and ultimate success. With realistic detail and well-paced suspense, this survival story is a good choice for reluctant readers.—Kathleen Isaacs, Towson University, MD

Gr 5–8—Somewhere in contemporary Britain, "the man Jack" uses his razor-sharp knife to murder a family, but the youngest, a toddler, slips away. The boy ends up in a graveyard, where the ghostly inhabitants adopt him to keep him safe. Nobody Owens, so named because he "looks like nobody but himself," grows up among a multigenerational cast of characters from different historical periods that includes matronly Mistress Owens; ancient Roman Caius Pompeius; an opinionated young witch; a melodramatic hack poet; and Bod's beloved mentor and guardian, Silas, who is neither living nor dead and has secrets of his own. As he grows up, Bod has a series of adventures, both in and out of the graveyard, and the threat of the man Jack who continues to hunt for him is ever present. Bod's love for his graveyard family and vice versa provide the emotional center, amid suspense, spot-on humor, and delightful scene-setting. The child Bod's behavior is occasionally too precocious to be believed, and a series of puns on the name Jack render the villain a bit less frightening than he should be, though only momentarily. Aside from these small flaws, however, Gaiman has created a rich, surprising, and sometimes disturbing tale of dreams, ghouls, murderers, trickery, and family.—Megan Honig, New York Public Library

Gr 6–8—Yumi Ruíz-Hirsch attends a Southern California middle school. She likes to surf; she's a musician, and she's the daughter of a truly contemporary, international family (her mother is Cuban and her father has a Japanese mother and a Jewish dad). Yumi loves her divorced parents, even though she isn't thrilled with the idea of her mom's approaching marriage, and her punk-rocker father isn't all that successful. Additionally, the bright and sensitive eighth grader is learning to cope with the impending loss of her grandfather, who is dying from cancer. She wants to learn everything she can about him while she still has him. Interspersed throughout the book are Saul's stories of his life, which reveal not only his colorful past, but also provide insight into his relationships and resilience. Yumi gleans self-awareness from her grandfather's stories, and their lessons punctuate her reflections. In all, this is a fast, funny, and surprisingly plausible book with likable, slightly off-beat characters who interact and relate genuinely, often movingly.—Maria B. Salvadore, formerly at Washington DC Public Library

Gr 8 Up—Fifteen-year-old Abby Savage has always thought of herself as the "normal" one in a household that more closely resembles a soap-opera cast than a real family. It's the summer before sophomore year, and, with her best friend Cody's help, Abby is determined to follow her One True Love Plan (formulated to avoid the mistakes of her sisters Shelby and Kait). Then Mom announces that she is pregnant by her new husband, Steve, a younger man who also happens to be the father of Kait's unborn child. Things become even more complicated when Cody's older brother, Jackson, returns home. Last spring, Abby thought she was falling in love with him, but she now distances herself because she's obsessed by the possibility that he could be the father of Kait's child (Kait dated Jackson before Steve). This somewhat farcical account of the Savage women is told in a witty, toned-down Meg Cabot style. The novel moves breathlessly from one family drama to the next—often in front of the neighbors—and touches on some heavy topics along the way, most notably Cody's attempt to come out of the closet. While there's no fairy-tale ending, the story's central romantic conflict is tied up a bit too tidily. Still, the likable main character and fast-paced storytelling will appeal to fans of Aimee Friedman's The Year My Sister Got Lucky (Scholastic, 2008) and Meg Cabot's Pants on Fire (HarperCollins, 2007).—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 5–8—In this lively sequel to Dragon Slippers (Bloomsbury, 2007), plucky heroine Creel is again plunged into adventure. Citatie, a country in the south, has declared war on Feravel, and the soldiers are sure to succeed because they will be mounted on hundreds of dragons enslaved or bred for combat. Creel, an enterprising dressmaker and Feravel's resident expert on these winged beasts, begs the king to allow her to enlist the help of local dragons to try and stop the attack. She works with her friend Marta, a mute soldier named Tobin (Marta's fiancé), and Prince Luka (Creel's love interest)—and several winged comrades—to discover the true power behind Citatie's dragon force and to try to and save her homeland. This medieval fantasy, reminiscent of works by Patricia C. Wrede or Gail Carson Levine, is fast paced and entertaining, and filled with honorable, evil, and quirky characters—both human and dragon. Creel and Marta are both headstrong and enterprising, and their escapades make for an engaging read. This book stands alone, but readers familiar with the first title will better understand the details of Creel's world.—Sharon Rawlins, New Jersey State Library, Trenton

Gr 6–9—Tom Gordon is missing and presumed dead. Now his 15-year-old son, Max, must leave England and go to the wilds of Namibia to search for him. His father is no stranger to danger because it is his job to seek out and expose corporations and governments that are damaging the environment. This time the bad guy has been polluting the water supply by dumping a pharmaceutical's excess drugs, thus saving the expense of properly disposing of them. Tom Gordon has uncovered the illegal activities and has been taken captive. Max is aided in his search by Sayid, his boarding-school friend and a computer whiz; a 17-year-old female pilot; and a Bushman boy. The characters are likable, and it is interesting to read about the clicking language of the Bushmen people, but the story alternates between two locations with sometimes abrupt transitions, which could make following it a bit frustrating for younger readers. However, the action starts on page one and it never lets up. Max faces swarms of monkeys, bad guys, poison arrows, extreme weather, and starvation; is forced to learn to fly a plane; and has the momentous shape-shifting experience of turning into an eagle. Students who are able to sort out the locations and intricate plot will be rewarded with a rip-roaring ride of an adventure.—Jake Pettit, Thompson Valley High School Library, Loveland, CO

Gr 9 Up—A fast-paced emotional thriller. High school junior Sammi and her four best friends are beautiful outcasts who formed an unbreakable bond. At least, she thought their bond was unbreakable—until she backs out of getting the friendship tattoo they all agreed upon. When Sammi's friends go from being distant to completely unlike themselves—getting into serious trouble with drugs, sex, and violent altercations—she starts to wonder if maybe there is something evil about their tattoos. Sammi tries to stop them from fighting with another group of girls, and her former friends beat her so badly that she is hospitalized. Determined to discover the truth, Sammi investigates the tattoo shop and finds frightening and disturbing links to the occult. The story has explicit language and descriptions and some violent scenes. While the motives of the tattoo-artist bad guy are a bit unclear, it's easy to get past that and go along for the ride. Sammi's interactions with her friends reflect a deeper fear about changing relationships and being alone, and throughout the book, she must also deal with her parents' strained relationship. With a likable protagonist and an eerie plot, this novel will mesmerize fans of the supernatural.—Sharon Senser McKellar, Oakland Public Library, CA

Gr 5–8—This fantasy follows Secrets of the Sirens and The Gorgon's Gaze (both Marshall Cavendish, 2007). Though certain humans have the secret ability to bond with particular types of mythical creatures, 13-year-old Connie is the only one who can communicate with all species. When she unintentionally begins to raise violent storms, she learns that her power has a dark side. It turns out that the evil shape-shifter Kullervo is to blame, but the far more frightening foe is bureaucrat Ivor Coddrington, who removes Connie from the Society for the Protection of Mythical Creatures and threatens expulsion to any member who associates with her. Connie prevails against both enemies with help from friends. The camaraderie and mutual respect shared by characters of all ages, ethnic backgrounds, and even species are believable and uplifting. A debate about constructing a wind farm to generate environmentally sustainable power (the winged creatures are opposed) thoughtfully integrates ecological issues into the story. Golding falters when it comes to creating and sustaining atmosphere; the setting is occasionally thin, and Kullervo never seems truly present or threatening. Despite these flaws, fans of the series will enjoy watching Connie and her friends triumph and grow.—Megan Honig, New York Public Library

Gr 9 Up—A side-splitting slice of male adolescence, this novel turns the spotlight on the ridiculousness that is the average, contemporary American high school experience, much as Stephen Chbosky's The Perks of Being a Wallflower (MTV, 1999) did a decade ago, but with funnier results. Scrawny and slightly naive 17-year-old Mitchell's best friend comes out to him at lunch in the cafeteria, his younger sister railroads his not-so-social social life, he turns in a sort-of pornographic claymation film in lieu of an English paper, and somehow he finds popular Danielle encouraging him to go up her shirt. The plot takes a backseat to gems of dialogue ("virginity…. Keeps your wrist muscles supple") and inner voice ("I imagine every student in my English class. If I only have erections for the females, I'm straight. It's really the only way to tell"). Combined with gags about the school administration, it all adds up to a story that's so funny and yet so realistic. As in most high schools, there is a lot of talk about beer, butts, and banging, but in his blasé cluelessness, Mitchell analyzes rather than glorifies such things (e.g., the make-out scene where he can't figure out where to put his hands). Readers should be prepared to laugh a lot, and to say "aw" at the tender resolution. A must-have for fiction collections.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library

Gr 6–9—Instead of an imaginary friend, Jane White has an imaginary enemy to whom she writes letters whenever she needs to vent her frustrations, revealing her most vulnerable thoughts and insecurities. The story begins when Jane pens her first missive in second grade, wends through the complexities of middle school, and ends when she is an 11th grader wrestling with relationships and rediscovering the boy next door. Throughout, Jane's narration remains static, resulting in a jaded-sounding middle schooler and a naive 16-year-old. Her neighbors, a family of eccentric musicians, color Jane's existence and make for quirky companions and romantic interests. Jane gradually matures, slowly learning to take responsibility for her actions, but the other characters do not undergo much growth. Several plot threads are not fully developed or seem rushed or contrived. Pacing is somewhat uneven, especially when the focus moves away from action and dialogue to quick descriptive sections that serve to advance time, and the narration is sometimes choppy. With an ambitious and interesting premise and a mystery at the book's conclusion, this is ultimately an additional story with some fun, unexpected moments.—Amy J. Chow, The Brearley School, New York City

Gr 5–8—Honor and her parents have been forcibly relocated to a seaside shack, the most dangerous living facility in this carefully constructed dystopia. In this future world, reminiscent of that in Lois Lowry's The Giver (Houghton, 1993), the Corporation, headed by the mysterious Earth Mother, has created a totally controlled society. Lands are being enclosed to protect the inhabitants from freak natural weather, and "safe" weather is created with overlays—fake sunrises and sunsets projected daily on the sky. Honor's parents refuse to conform. Honor suffers from being different, but when she meets Helix, a boy whose parents are also intent on rebelling against the Corporation, the two children must discover a way to rescue Helix's parents and Honor's mother, who have been "taken" and turned into the zombielike orderlies who mindlessly serve the government. Honor's evolution from someone willing to conform to make life easier and safer to one committed to fight for her individuality is believable. The increasingly sinister atmosphere, echoing elements of National Socialism and China's Cultural Revolution, is well done. Parodies of self-help books for children ("What It Feels Like When Parents Disappear") add grim humor. Miss Blessing, one of the Corporation toadies, with her perfectly buttoned cardigan and high sweet voice, is a particularly chilling character. A compelling science-fiction novel.—Quinby Frank, Green Acres School, Rockville, MD

Gr 9 Up—Quentin Jacobsen, 17, has been in love with his next-door neighbor, Margo Roth Spiegelman, for his entire life. A leader at their Central Florida high school, she has carefully cultivated her badass image. Quentin is one of the smart kids. His parents are therapists and he is, above all things, "goddamned well adjusted." He takes a rare risk when Margo appears at his window in the middle of the night. They drive around righting wrongs via her brilliant, elaborate pranks. Then she runs away (again). He slowly uncovers the depth of her unhappiness and the vast differences between the real and imagined Margo. Florida's heat and homogeneity as depicted here are vivid and awful. Green's prose is astounding—from hilarious, hyperintellectual trash talk and shtick, to complex philosophizing, to devastating observation and truths. He nails it—exactly how a thing feels, looks, affects—page after page. The mystery of Margo—her disappearance and her personhood—is fascinating, cleverly constructed, and profoundly moving. Green builds tension through both the twists of the active plot and the gravitas of the subject. He skirts the stock coming-of-age character arc—Quentin's eventual bravery is not the revelation. Instead, the teen thinks deeper and harder—about the beautiful and terrifying ways we can and cannot know those we love. Less-sophisticated readers may get lost in Quentin's copious transcendental ruminations—give Paper Towns to your sharpest teens.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 4–7—Eleven-year-old Violet Raines is no "shrinking violet," especially when it comes to girlie girl Melissa Gold, whose family has just moved to her small Florida town in the 1970s. Violet's best friend, Lottie, is fascinated by Melissa and her talk of life in Detroit, "the murder capital of the United States." Violet, however, thinks Melissa is a "priss" and proves it by showing her the fish-head bucket at the Sunday fish fry (Melissa runs away to vomit). After Lottie's house is struck by lightning, she and her sisters stay at Melissa's big house, much to Violet's chagrin. While Melissa and Lottie talk movie stars, makeup, and bras, Violet still enjoys squeezing into the tree cave, exploring outdoors, and hanging out with her childhood buddy Eddie. Haworth takes on coming-of-age dilemmas with spunk, innocence, and a cast of believable, well-developed characters, describing the challenges kids face when one friend matures faster than another, the two-against-one pitting of girl trios, and budding romance. Violet passes through the last doors of childhood and into the uncertain entryway of junior high with acute sensitivity while maintaining her authentic sense of self and the surprising, satisfying support of her friends. An enjoyable read with plenty of discussible points about relationships.—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 5–9—In this addition to the series, Ven and his friends go on a quest to escape the Thief Queen and stop a dragon from destroying Nain settlements. Amariel, a merrow (or mermaid) who once saved Ven's life, reluctantly agrees to join in the quest. This decision proves dangerous when Ven loses her cap and must race against time to find it before Amariel turns human forever. Though not a stand-alone, the book has a richly drawn fantasy world, distinct characterizations, and a fast pace that will inspire readers to check out The Floating Island (2006) and The Thief Queen's Daughter (2007, both Tor). Peppered with energetic sketches and excerpts from Ven's journals, this unique book will appeal to a broad range of readers.—Kim Ventrella, Ralph Ellison Library, Oklahoma City, OK

Gr 8–10—Taryn has fallen in love with Epp. The only problem is that her friend from kindergarten, Isabelle, happens to be his current girlfriend. Isabelle is beautiful, book smart, athletic, and all around hard to compete with—but Taryn decides to give it a try. She pretends to write for the school paper in order to interview him. Then she begins to date his friend so that she can get even closer. She even starts to like her new boyfriend, but not enough. Along the way she is consumed with guilt, making her an overall likable character, despite her somewhat devious plan. When things go awry, readers won't be able to help feeling sympathy for the protagonist. Subplots include friendship growing pains, divorced parents who share custody, and a new "sister"/bichon frise who is an attention hog. This is a quick, light read but it lacks the spark of other chick-lit titles.—Emily Garrett Cassady, North Garland High School, Garland, TX

Gr 7 Up—Comparable to books by R. L. Stine and Stephen King, The Devouring will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Reggie is a horror fanatic. When she finds a journal in a box of used books at the bookstore where she works, she "borrows" it. It tells of the Vours, black smokelike beings that possess humans who can't conquer their fear on Sorry Night (the eve of the winter solstice). Reggie and her friend Aaron attempt to make the Vours materialize but instead they possess her little brother. In a fight to the death, Reggie joins the battle of humanity against the Vours. This story contains classic elements of the genre: a horrific monster, fusion (where two different entities are fused into one), and the process of discovery. The book has some graphic content, blood, and gore, which only add to the chills. A must-have for horror fans.—June H. Keuhn, Corning East High School, NY

Gr 7 Up—About to graduate from high school, Katie needs money for college, which motivates her to play a game banned by the school administration. Played only by seniors, Gotcha! has gone underground this year. The person who acquires the most beads from fellow players wins, and this year the jackpot exceeds $3000. Despite the competition bringing out the worst in people, the size of the prize makes it worthwhile even with the inevitable dangers. Friends betray friends. Students risk physical harm, trying to avoid having their beads captured. During the game, Katie seems to have acquired an added benefit: a boyfriend in Joel. Unfortunately, she doesn't know whether to trust that he really likes her or to believe he's angling to win the game. Worse, as class treasurer, Katie is keeping the prize money in her bank account, and she lends it to her dad, who recently left the family and has a gambling addiction. It's a long and circuitous path to the end of the story. The premise holds promise, but the execution is barely competent.—Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 4–7—Readers will immediately know that great and evil forces are at work in the world of cats when they meet catling Mati, alone aboard a merchant vessel that docks somewhere in England. His mother was the last Tygrine queen, and on Mati's young and inexperienced shoulders rests the fate of all catkind, as the powerful Sa Mau are determined to obliterate the Tygrine and rule all felines themselves. In this first novel, Iserles has created a rich history for cats, some of it based on ancient Egyptian religion and myths. The intriguing backstory is revealed as Mati attempts to integrate himself into a feral community that has its own customs and traditions—a community that is wary of strangers. As he learns more of the ancient lore, he understands his role and importance to cat society and struggles to block the malevolent ambition of the Sa Mau. Friendship, loyalty, and treachery loom large in this sweeping tale that will be appealing to readers who enjoy animal fantasy, particularly Erin Hunter's "Warriors" series (HarperCollins).—Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WI

Gr 7 Up—Jeapes fills this science-fiction tale of time-travel malfeasance with enough plot twists to satisfy the most avid mystery buff. The book begins with an unidentified person falling to his death. Readers then meet other characters in rapid succession, including an unnamed Correspondent in AD 1029; Field Ops Garron and Zo; Acting Commissioner Marje Orendal and her assistant, Hossein Asaldra; journeymen Jontan Baiget and Sarai Killin; and patrician Phenuel Scott. Among these and other characters, Garron emerges as the hero. He feels certain that Commissioner Daiho did not simply fall but was murdered. It's all very convoluted, and Jeapes will keep readers turning the pages to figure out who exactly is trying to do what. Teens will certainly enjoy the story, which could just as easily sit on the adult shelves. To further confuse things, the cover's pastel artwork looks more like something for elementary students than for middle or upper graders. This was originally published in Great Britain as Winged Chariot (Scholastic, Ltd, 1999).—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 8 Up—Johnson certainly seems to have the formula for good, clean, readable chick-lit down pat, and this title does not disappoint. According to tradition, when the Martin children turn 15, they inherit a suite in the family's small Manhattan hotel and a job: to take care of the rooms and their occupant. On Scarlett's 15th birthday, Amy Amberson sweeps into the suite that Scarlett has just inherited. The woman is demanding and brash, but she does have her charms (and large amounts of cash). In the beginning, Scarlett is overwhelmed, but then her role becomes that of Mrs. Amberson's assistant for her projects, which change on a whim. When Amy decides to help the theater troupe that Scarlett's brother is involved in put on Hamlet, the teen begins a romance with one of the actors. Then everything starts to go awry, and when things get tough, Amy abandons ship, and plucky Scarlett is left to step in and save what needs saving, something that she does with flair. Scarlett's brand of humor is particularly dry and well articulated. This novel blends sibling rivalry and the importance of family, friendship, and romance into a plot that is charming and well delivered.—Emily Garrett Cassady, North Garland High School, Garland, TX

Gr 8 Up—Leon Sanders, 17, a self-described geek, craves the attention of perfection-personified Amy Green, who consistently ignores him. Resigned to life on the fringes of his suburban high school, he takes comfort in knowing that another junior scores zero for popularity: Melody Hennon, whose severely burned face has made her an outcast. When Leon tells Melody a bad joke and gets a genuine laugh, he is surprised to find an actual person behind the scars, and soon discovers that she shares his interests and offbeat humor. When Melody confides the details of her childhood accident, he tells her about a humiliating encounter with a bully that left him emotionally scarred. As their friendship turns to romance, Leon worries about the opinions of others, but people are accepting of their relationship. Then Leon finally catches Amy's eye. Faced with a dilemma, he allows himself to be lured away from the devastated Melody, but is soon overwhelmed by the emotional consequences. Leon's self-deprecating, ironic humor keeps an authentic edge running through the story as he explores new relationships and roles, and wrestles with doing the right thing. Melody is a resilient young woman whose experience with Leon helps her develop self-confidence. This is a strong debut novel with a cast of quirky, multidimensional characters struggling with issues of acceptance, sexuality, identity, and self-worth.—Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 5–9—In this sequel to The Green Glass Sea (Viking, 2006), Dewey and the Gordon family have relocated from Los Alamos to Alamogordo, NM, now that World War II is over, because Mr. Gordon has been offered a job to develop rockets for the U.S. government. Dewey and Suze Gordon are comfortable with one another, almost like sisters, and begin eighth grade together at a new school, where they are required to take home economics instead of shop. Suze's mother has had to put her academic career as a chemist on hold and is struggling with her growing estrangement from her husband, based primarily on their different positions about the atomic bomb. But Dewey relishes the close bond that she is developing with Mrs. Gordon, only to have it disrupted by the arrival of her birth mother, who left Dewey and her dad when she was two. Superbly written and rich in detail, Klages's novel once again nails the uncertainty that many Americans experienced after the truths of Hiroshima began to surface. History is intricately woven into the story of these memorable characters, and issues such as self-identity, family, and racism are explored. The desert heat is palpable, the immense expanses are easily visualized, and the roles that women and minorities played in the late 1940s are painfully evident. The only problem is minor—the threat in this volume is not "red" communism, but rather ex-Nazis and the atomic research itself, so the title might mislead readers. Nonetheless, this book is every bit as powerful as its predecessor.—Melissa Moore, Union University Library, Jackson, TN

Gr 6–10—In New Avalon, most everyone has a personal fairy. Charlie, 14, has a parking fairy; if she is in a car, a perfect parking spot is found on the first try. But since Charlie doesn't drive and hates exhaust, she thinks she's been cursed. Her friend Rochelle has a clothes-shopping fairy that makes everything look perfect on her, and her sworn enemy, Fiorenze, has an every-boy-will-like-you fairy. Charlie's attempts to starve her fairy away by walking everywhere just collects her demerits for lateness at New Avalon Sports High, where it is all sports all the time. When the water polo star virtually kidnaps her in his car for his illegal purposes and the "pulchritudinous" new boy on whom she has a crush falls for Fiorenze, Charlie needs to get drastic. She and Fiorenze forge an alliance and hatch a plan to switch their fairies, and she learns to be careful about what she wishes for. With the every-boy-will-like-you fairy, girls turn on Charlie, and she wonders whether Steffi likes her or if he is just responding to her fairy. Charlie is totally likable, smart, and sarcastic, a perfectly self-involved, insecure teen. At its core, this is a typical coming-of-age story, but the addition of the fairies, the slightly alternative setting, and the made-up slang make it much more. This "doos" (brilliant) fantasy will not be ditched.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 5–9—This sequel to Do the Math: Secrets, Lies, and Algebra (HarperCollins, 2007) picks up the story of Tess, an eighth grader who copes with uncertain situations and unpredictable people by applying mathematical equations or symbols, an approach that gives her comfort and perspective. After seeing a series of numbers graffitied on a building near school, Tess recognizes that it is a math puzzle and solves it to reveal a secret code. When she decodes the word "arson," she realizes that someone is trying to communicate shocking information to her (there has recently been an unexplained fire at school). Though aware of the punishment for defacing property, she writes her own message on the wall in an attempt to get more information. She eventually solves the mystery, but ends up getting more than she bargained for when she is caught and must face the consequences. She also wrestles with peer relationships as she deals with a boy who is tormenting her and tries to figure out contradictions in a new friend. Lichtman cleverly incorporates mathematical concepts into Tess's narrative, keeping the ideas simple and explaining them in terms that readers can understand. Tess is likable and navigates through her problems in a realistic manner.—Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

Gr 4–6—Full of creatively descriptive language, this delightful story moves along rapidly, bordering on but never crossing into campy. Billy Bones lives with his parents, the proverbial skeletons in the closet, who have the job of guarding the secrets and lies of the residents of High Manners Manor, including the current household head, the nefarious Sir Barkley Braggety Biglum VI. His recently orphaned niece, Millicent, now lives at the mansion, where she is relegated to the attic. Naturally curious, she often sneaks out of her room to explore. She comes upon her grandmother, Dame Biglum, who has been shut away upstairs, and the Bones's secrets closet. After recovering from their initial fright, the youngsters become friends, and they work together to uncover secrets about the Biglum family history, Billy's puzzling origins, and Barkley's latest plot. Meanwhile, in the Afterlife, investigations about the Boneses' own family mysteries are underway. All works out in the end as secrets are revealed, goodness and truth win out over lies and deception, and villains get their just deserts. Characters are aptly named—the unlikable housekeeper, Miss Primly; the collector of souls, Uncle Grim; and the lawyers Hack, Whack, and Plunder. Cartoon sketches add to the drama and humor. Billy Bones is a fun read.—Jennifer D. Montgomery, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green

Gr 9 Up—In her first collection of stories for young adults, Link upends traditional horror, science fiction, and fantasy motifs, creating original, quirky, and distinctly beautiful literary landscapes. Honed, brilliant language renders blood, werewolves, ghosts, magic, and monsters sublime—at times even funny. Readers will relish uncertainty in these savory, strange stories and never feel quite sure of their footing. They proceed giddily, jumping from one uncanny premise, phrase, or image to the next, eventually stumbling upon a revelation that hits them like the snap of a rubber band. Clever resolutions and tricky plots place teens on delightfully circuitous reading paths. Unexpected endings force them to double back and reconsider each story from the beginning. In this second read, young adults might notice Link's seamless incorporation of their own experiences. Awkward adolescence, uncomfortable first love, frustrating parents, and complicated friendships surface quietly amid wonderfully knotty, twisted plots and incandescent imagery. This compilation of intricate, transfixing selections succeeds in making the weird wonderful and the grotesque absolutely gorgeous.—Shelley Huntington, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—Introspective and curious, Jock is considering questions many people never get around to puzzling out: What is the true measure of success? Is it money? Or, is it somehow achievable merely by defining one's own vision of happiness and making it happen? While most young adults' values are defined by friends and family, Jock's moral compass lacks an obvious pole to fix upon. His hippieish parents happily operate a barbershop with a backward business plan based on convincing would-be patrons to let their hair grow, and his younger brother brazenly takes materialistic self-interest, snarkiness, and sloth to laughable heights. Jock's main challenge in this crash course in self-discovery lies in figuring out if the employer he idolizes, the owner of the underutilized golf complex on which he works—and who also happens to be his grandfather—is a worthy role model or a tortured train in the midst of derailment. Unlike Jock's parents, Grampus claims to believe in entrepreneurial ambition. He pursues those goals in idiosyncratic fashion, running and expanding his 13-hole golf course on his own terms, often shoeless and shirtless—and sometimes in a kilt. Jock begins to wonder if his grandfather's a winner, a loser, or something in between—until a series of unexpected visits and a mild stroke force the answer. The Big Game of Everything is a funny and thoughtful novel that considers the true nature of class, happiness, and success through the eyes of a teenage boy.—Jeffrey Hastings, Highlander Way Middle School, Howell, MI

Gr 9 Up—The demesne of Willowlands is in a state of upheaval—great fissures in the earth have opened and swallowed livestock, fires have broken out across the land, the earthlines rumble in disquiet, the people are unsettled. The former Master of Willowlands, a reckless tyrant who reveled in his power and neglected his role, died heirless. His younger brother was sent away many years earlier to become a fire priest—a calling from which none return to the mortal realm. Yet, he is one year from completing his apprenticeship, and the Circle sends for him to heal his troubled land. Mirasol is the young beekeeper called to become Chalice, to bind together the Circle, the people, and the demesne into a unified entity. She has no training or experience, and the realm is so fractured that uniting it under the rule of a Master who is no longer completely human, and who can touch nothing without burning it, seems an impossible task. As delicately structured as the chambers of a honeycomb, this novel begs to be read slowly. The people of Willowlands are interesting and well crafted, and despite a conclusion that seems rushed and incomplete, this novel is a delight. Because this story is slow paced and does not happen in complete chronological order, reluctant readers will struggle with it. However, mature teens who long for beautiful phrases and descriptive writing will find themselves drinking in this rich fairy tale as if it were honey trickling down their throats.—Heather M. Campbell, formerly at Philip S. Miller Library, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 8 Up—Morning McCobb is graduating from the IVLeague (International Vampire League) Academy, where students are schooled to be Leaguers (vampires who live peacefully though secretly among mortals and subsist on animal blood) instead of Loners (those who follow the old ways). A forever-16-year-old misfit among his perfect classmates—the slightly older "hunks and hotties" usually chosen to become vampires—Morning is a SangFU (blood flub up); he accidentally received the "virus" while being bled dry by a Loner. He's also a vegan who drinks only a soy blood substitute. When he's offered the opportunity to be the first Leaguer to come out of the closet to the world and show mortals that vampires are just another special-needs minority, he jumps at the chance to end his outcast status and perhaps fulfill his one-time dream of becoming a firefighter. Things are going well until he becomes attracted to Portia, his PR specialist's outspoken daughter, and begins to experience true bloodlust for the first time. Meanwhile, a menacing Loner is determined to stop Morning from succeeding. Not quite as dark as most vampire novels, Meehl's story is filled with humor, quirky characters, light romance, mild suspense, and a lot of fun. A strong addition to a very popular genre.—Sharon Senser McKellar, Oakland Public Library, CA

Gr 9 Up—Meyer closes her epic love story of a human, a vampire, and a werewolf in this, the final installment of the saga. The story opens with Bella and Edward's wedding, and relations between Jacob and Bella remain uneasy. On honeymoon and unshackled from any further concerns about premarital sex, Edward fulfills his promise to consummate their marriage before he changes Bella into a vampire. An unexpected conception throws their idyllic world back into chaos as factions (both wolf and vampire) battle over whether or not to destroy the potential monster that is killing Bella from within. The captivating angst, passions, and problems manage to satisfyingly fill pages where surprisingly little action takes place, even after the powerful child's birth brings the Cullen family under the scrutiny of the Volturi. The international cadre of vampires who come to the Cullens' aid are fascinating, but distract from the development of prime characters at a pivotal moment. The novel begins and ends with Bella's voice, while Jacob narrates the middle third of the tale, much like the final pages of Eclipse (Little, Brown 2007). While darker and more mature than the previous titles, Meyer's twists and turns are not out of character. Fans may distress as the happy ending for everyone, including a girl for Jacob, lessens the importance and pain of tough decisions and difficult self-sacrifices that caused great grief in previous books, but they will flock to it and enjoy it nonetheless.—Cara von Wrangel Kinsey, New York Public Library

Gr 6–9—A riveting peek into the lives of twins who have an unusual ability. Born on different sides of midnight on New Year's Eve, Merry and Mally Brynn have always shared a secret language and telepathy. Though they have dissimilar personalities, they tend to think, feel, and do things in sync. However, after a bizarre fire on their 13th birthday almost kills the girls, the thread between them ravels. Suddenly, they begin to have visions about other people. Mally can see events before they occur, and Merry can see them after they have concluded. Putting the pieces together gives the girls a startling picture of some disturbing incidents occurring nearby: Mally has visions of a friend's older brother hurting animals and violently attacking young women. Though it's hard for the sisters to believe it's true, they are determined to stop him, no matter the personal cost. Mitchard does an excellent job of portraying the girls' close bond and unique personas. The importance of the twin legacy in the Brynn family and the vital role the girls' relatives play in their well-being are also wonderfully evoked. The clearly depicted setting—a tight-knit small-town community—makes an excellent environment for the tale's action and suspense. This involving mystery will have wide appeal and makes a solid first entry in a planned trilogy.—Emily Garrett Cassady, North Garland High School, Garland, TX

Gr 6–9—Luke, 16, never wanted to go on the trip in the first place. A week spent on a dinky old sailboat off Cape Cod with his parents doesn't seem like much fun. Then his mother, a painter, abruptly packs her things and leaves, telling Luke that she doesn't know when—or if-she'll be back. Luke is less enthusiastic about the sailing trip than ever, but his father insists that they proceed as planned. The tension between them builds—and then an unexpected storm overtakes the boat, sweeping Luke's dad overboard. Not knowing whether he is dead or alive, Luke must salvage the sailboat and survive on his own on the open sea. Reminiscent of the best adventure stories of Gary Paulsen, this gripping novel skillfully blends family drama with survival tale. The text is rich with sailing details that may be unfamiliar to some landlubbing readers, but Moodie does a fine job making the scenes come alive with vivid, authentic descriptions. The characters are complex and sensitively limned, and readers will be drawn into the conflict between Luke and his father as fully as they are into Luke's struggle to save his boat and find rescue. This is a book that will appeal both to adventure lovers and to readers outside of the typical action-adventure demographic.—Meredith Robbins, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School, New York City

Gr 5–7—In this sequel to Hello, Goodbye, I Love You (Piñata Pub., 2003), guide dog Aloha is living happily with her partner, Kimberly Louise, on a small island off the Georgia coast. Neither has forgotten Aloha's puppy-raiser, young Diego, and he is thrilled when they invite him to stay for a few weeks. Unfortunately, his visit coincides with a hurricane hitting the island. One snake bite, a lost-and-found Aloha, and lots of broken windows later, everyone lives happily ever after, with Kimberly Louise getting a marriage proposal into the bargain. As in the first book, what might have been a genuinely moving story is marred by wooden dialogue ("It seems that only when I'm with you can I sit still and let contentment wash over me"), clunky information passages dropped into the middle of scenes (such as lengthy, unnatural dialogue passages on the development of Braille), and long tangents (for example, when Kimberly Louise spends nearly two chapters telling the boy about her grandfather being shipwrecked with a dog). Most damaging, however, is the fact that no point of view is fully developed; the narrative stands at arm's-length from every character, and so it is difficult to emotionally invest in any of them. Readers who enjoyed Aloha's first adventure may come aboard for this second one, but it's unlikely that the side trips into history and adult romance will keep them engaged.—Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

Gr 9 Up—In the summer of 1969, hippie teenager Bliss in the Morning Dew sees her whole world turn upside down. One day, she is unceremoniously dropped at her grandmother's house in Atlanta after her parents decide to leave their commune and move to Canada. Now, not only does she need to get to know her grandmother, but she also has to learn the ways of the society she now inhabits. That includes attending the exclusive Crestview Academy. This might sound like a typical story of a girl getting to know a long-lost family member, but it's not. This story is straight-up horror—with Bliss right in the center of the storm. The nice, polite, nonjudgmental teen has been singled out by one girl at school—a girl whose obsession with blood rituals borders on insanity. Lilliana was once a student at Crestview, but her mysterious death has long haunted the school. Yet, one girl believes that Lilliana can and must be brought back from the dead, and there's only one student who can help—Bliss. However, the protagonist has some secrets of her own, and she's not going to let Lilliana return without a fight. Myracle also works in period references, including the "The Andy Griffith Show" and the Manson Family murders. Although the story drags a bit in the middle and Bliss seems a bit too forgiving of a new friend, this novel is sure to cause goose bumps all the way to the dramatic and surprising end.—Traci Glass, Eugene Public Library, OR

Gr 6–8—This story covers nine months in the life of eighth-grader Kenny Sykes, socially inept and more of an observer than a doer. Noticing that his 16-year-old neighbor, Jodie Poindexter, is terribly unhappy, Kenny imagines himself a hero, the Cricket Man, who saves her, just as he decides the fate of crickets trapped in the family's pool. Slowly, Kenny stops idealizing Jodie and develops a friendship with her. They share New Year's Eve together, sitting on the roof of his house. Then Kenny has almost no contact with her until a few months later, when she calls begging for his help. Finally Kenny gets the chance to save her—as she gives birth on a picnic table. Rounding out this time in his life are his relationships with his skateboarding friends, a run-in with the vice principal, his sister's engagement and wedding, and the opportunity to rescue a boy from drowning in the town pool. Naylor has written a quiet story that will find an audience with those who enjoy reading about a rather privileged world in which, at least from Kenny's perspective and that of his family, is largely untroubled. Beautifully written, this book showcases the author's superb narrative skills.—Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 4–9—Writing in the voice of a smart, sensitive 13-year-old boy, Newbery tells the story of a blended family whose members share a sense of love and purpose that carries them through difficult times. The birth of a new baby is a happy occasion and the Bowmans, or, as they like to call themselves, the Bowpersons, rejoice when baby Jennie joins her half brothers, Jamie and Josh. Both boys experience angst over the attention being paid to her; for Josh, the feelings are normal and easily superseded by his love for his sister. However, for Jamie, the addition of Jennie to his home with his mother and stepfather, combined with the announcement that his father and his girlfriend and her son are moving in together, pushes him into selective mutism. As the story unfolds, Josh's well-developed voice evokes the love he and Jamie feel from all three parents, while expressing the feelings of children and teens when they have to deal with changing families. Throughout, Josh's fascination with cats large and small, tame and wild, is developed through his inserts of facts and drawings in his "Book of Cats." In addition to the likable characters, the story provides an example of people working through problems without yelling or abuse. It is refreshing to read about this loving family, reminiscent of those created by Madeleine L'Engle.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 4–7—Dessa Dean, 11, was a powerless witness as her diabetic mother froze to death when they were caught in an early-winter storm. Since then, she and her father have gone through the motions of normalcy, with him going out daily to check the traps while she stays behind to do the schoolwork he prepares and to fix their meager dinner. But things are not normal: Dessa Dean frequently relives the horror of her mother's death, and she is unable to make herself venture beyond the steps of their isolated Colorado cabin. The week before Christmas, though, an injured dog comes sniffing around. Dessa Dean's initial attempts to befriend it fail: the jittery animal has apparently been abused and keeps her distance. Repeated efforts pay off, but even when the dog allows Dessa Dean to approach her, she remains on edge around the girl's father. As another storm nears, he is having no success with his hunting forays and has little patience for a dog that will only stay inside when the door is open to the frigid air. Dessa Dean is caught between her growing feelings for the animal and her father's concern over their basic survival. This story of an agoraphobic girl and a claustrophobic dog and how they slowly move one another toward hope could have been maudlin, but Nuzum's pacing and spare, poetic narrative create something quite wonderful. The novel will draw comparisons to Kate DiCamillo's Because of Winn-Dixie (Candlewick, 2000), but it is certainly not a Winn-Dixie wannabe. This is a beautiful story in which friendship and the power of being needed trump despair.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 9 Up—Mason Avrett, who is mentally slow, has an uncanny ability to create realistic images with his imagination. He's been the subject of his older brother's hatred for years: at age nine, Gene, angered by the special attention Mason received from their parents, tried to kill him. Now in high school, the boys live with their aunt, who is oblivious to their animosity. Coldhearted and cruel, Gene is the brains behind a drug-dealing ring and continues to mentally and physically abuse his younger brother. When Rene, Mason's kindhearted childhood friend, is brutally beaten by Gene's thugs and left in a coma, Mason's special talent allows him to "see" her attackers. Using his power to create terrifying images in the minds of his victims, Mason soon becomes a formidable force as he seeks revenge on the perpetrators. This wonderfully written suspense story takes sibling rivalry to a scary level. Torn between his fear of his brother and his affection for Rene, Mason must ultimately move beyond this fear to overcome Gene's bullying. Pendleton has created a hero who is sometimes dark and scary, yet as gentle as a puppy. As the novel moves to its dramatic climax, readers can't help but feel the pain of this poignant young man whose birth places him in a dangerous environment. Horror fans will be thrilled by Mason's story.—Caryl Soriano, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—In this first novel for young people set outside of Discworld, Pratchett again shows his humor and humanity. Worlds are destroyed and cultures collide when a tsunami hits islands in a vast ocean much like the Pacific. Mau, a boy on his way back home from his initiation period and ready for the ritual that will make him a man, is the only one of his people, the Nation, to survive. Ermintrude, a girl from somewhere like Britain in a time like the 19th century, is on her way to meet her father, the governor of the Mothering Sunday islands. She is the sole survivor of her ship (or so she thinks), which is wrecked on Mau's island. She reinvents herself as Daphne, and uses her wits and practical sense to help the straggling refugees from nearby islands who start arriving. When raiders land on the island, they are led by a mutineer from the wrecked ship, and Mau must use all of his ingenuity to outsmart him. Then, just as readers are settling in to thinking that all will be well in the new world that Daphne and Mau are helping to build, Pratchett turns the story on its head. The main characters are engaging and interesting, and are the perfect medium for the author's sly humor. Daphne is a close literary cousin of Tiffany Aching in her common sense and keen intelligence wedded to courage. A rich and thought-provoking read.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

Gr 9 Up—It's 1794, and the revolution in France is threatening to spill across the channel into England, where Sovay, the beautiful 17-year-old daughter of a gentleman, turns to holding up carriages while in disguise to break her boredom. Then her father disappears and is charged with treason, and, with the persuasion of the notorious highwayman Captain Greenwood and the American Virgil Barrett, she becomes embroiled in the political issues of the day, eventually traveling to Paris during the final days of the Reign of Terror. Rees develops strong (and frequently mysterious) characters to carry this historical novel. The vivid sense of place, especially in France, will cause readers to experience the French Revolution on a personal level. Ultimately, the epitome of evil is not Robespierre or his underlings, but the crowds of ordinary citizens who accept the horrors without flinching. Unfortunately, these strengths are undermined by troubles with the plot. Reference to "The Highwayman" that opens the book serves no purpose in the overall story except to introduce Greenwood and display Sovay's courage. The historical events are not fully fleshed out, and readers unfamiliar with the Reign of Terror are offered no explanatory notes or afterword. Two possible love interests for Sovay are trumped in the last 100 pages by a third character, and readers may be frustrated with the neat ending.—Melissa Moore, Union University Library, Jackson, TN

Gr 5–8—Set in an altered European Renaissance, this book succeeds in creating an interesting new fantasy world. Twelve-year-old Petra Kronos is shocked when her father is returned to their village without his eyes. The young Prince of Bohemia had commissioned Mikhail Kronos, who has a magical gift with metal and machines, to create a magnificent clock. Before its completion, however, the prince had the artisan's eyes removed, hoping to use their magical qualities, along with the clock, to gain control of the Hapsburg Empire and possibly the world. Petra, along with her well-read tin spider, Astrophil, sneaks off to Prague in order to get the eyes back. With help from a Roma boy, Neel, and his sister, Petra gets a job at the castle and is one step closer to retrieving her father's eyes and preventing the prince from misusing the clock's power. Her adventures also lead her to discover more of her own abilities, magical and otherwise. The novel is well paced and contains a number of intriguing characters. This is a solid fantasy that finishes its story but leaves the door open for further episodes. An author's note explains the historical basis for certain aspects of the book, including the Roma, the prince's cabinet of wonders, and John Dee, advisor to Queen Elizabeth. For those who like their fantasy with a splash of history, or their history with a twist of magic, this book is ideal.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL

Gr 9 Up—In dual narratives, Jake Upthegrove and Ramiro Lopez share their thoughts and the events of a few days in their hometown, gradually discovering that they share an immense hole in their lives from absent fathers. Jake is from the wealthy part of El Paso, and Ram is less privileged. Both have distinctive relationships with their mothers; Jake's cold and unloving, Ram's warm and supportive. Seniors in high school, they have an interest in their futures, girls, and the world around them. Jake is cynical and angry, while Ram is more content with his life until his brother's heroin abuse catapults him into a re-examination of his relationships and friendships. Jake's attempt to make peace with his mom by agreeing to an 18th birthday party does the same. The worlds of each narrator seem unlikely to intersect, but as the teens gain basic respect for one another and develop a friendship, these differences are revealed as insignificant. Thought-provoking, this novel is accessible without being simple, and readers are sure to admire these boys' attempts to come to terms with their lives. Self-absorbed but not annoyingly so, with raw language perfectly in tune with the characters as developed, the dueling voices reveal an essential humanity and goodness that transcend the details of socioeconomic class.—Carol Edwards, Denver Public Library, Denver, CO

Gr 9 Up—The numb voice of a teen who has been devastated by five years of captivity and compliance, a girl who has been named "Alice" by her abductor, relates her grim story. At 15, she still believes the threat by which Ray controlled her when she was almost 10 and he walked her away from a school field trip: he's made it clear that if she bolts he will kill her family. The trauma of multiple rapes on a child is portrayed, as is Ray's ongoing need to control her and his daily, multiple demands for sexual submission. Now that she's a teen, Alice is being starved; his disordered logic tells him that this will keep her a little girl. His control over her is so absolute that, although she can leave his apartment during the day and goes on her own to have a wax job, her only rebellion is to steal small amounts of food. When Ray decides it is time for a new little girl, Alice complies by locating a likely next victim. In the process she meets a needy teen boy and a police officer, both of whom suspect she is in trouble and want to help her, but all does not end happily. This story lacks the vivid characters and psychological insights of Norma Fox Mazer's chilling The Missing Girl (HarperCollins, 2008). For an ultimately hopeful, but still realistic portrayal of a damaged survivor of abduction and sexual imprisonment, see Catherine Atkins's When Jeff Comes Home (Putnam, 1999)—Carolyn Lehman, Humboldt State University, Arcata, CA

Gr 4–7—Gulliver, a Lhasa apso, has a happy life with his master, Professor Rattigan, in a Manhattan apartment. His diet consists of his favorite flavor of canned dog food, he and his master travel to Paris every summer, and his walks around Washington Square are the perfect distance for his short legs. However, his life suffers a dramatic change when his master gets engaged to his French girlfriend, who is allergic to dogs. Gulliver, now Gully, moves to Queens and lives with the family of Carlos, the doorman at his previous building, where he is served dry food and shares a home with three other dogs, a talkative gerbil, and an eight-year-old girl. Gully can't understand why his professor has deserted him, so he travels on his own to Manhattan and to Paris, discovering along the way that a loving home means more to him than luxuries. Gully's travels, both literal and metaphoric, are presented in a realistic and dramatic fashion. The pup's interactions with the other pets he meets ring true, as does their limited understanding of their owners. This appealing tale features popular themes including adventure, dogs, and travel, and will grab readers' attention. Cole's sketches on nearly every page help to bring this diverse cast of characters to life.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

Gr 5–9—This book follows Winter of Magic's Return (1985) and Tomorrow's Magic (1987, both S & S). In a post-nuclear-disaster world 500 years in the future, teens Heather, Welly, and Merlin (freed from enchantment and newly rejuvenated) are working with King Arthur (returned from the Otherworld of Avalon) to unite what remains of humankind in Britain. The story begins with Arthur's wedding to Queen Margaret of Scotland, after which Heather is kidnapped by Morgan Le Fay. Merlin sets off to save her along with Welly and their troll friend, all on the back of a somewhat reluctant dragon. With the emergence of Heather's ability to converse telepathically with select youngsters around the world, this novel explores the possibility that other pockets of humanity have survived besides those in Britain. This is a solid fantasy that will appeal to fans of Camelot stories, but it can also be enjoyed by readers who have little or no interest in Arthurian legend. Characters, particularly Merlin and Heather, are well developed, and the plot is well paced. A brief prologue establishes the setting and recounts major events in the first two books. While it's not necessary to have read the earlier works, readers may be interested in seeing the whole story arc and watching the characters and their relationships develop.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL

Gr 5–8—In this third tale about Paolo, now in junior high; his deaf cousin, Billy; and his younger brother, Georgie, the Red Scare has penetrated even California's Central Valley in 1951. This makes for fun spy-hunting on the town's residents, an entertaining alternative when the trio tires of running away part-time to their tree house, planning for the Monsignor's Halloween carnival, or training their giant dog to attack—or at least to bark on command. When Billy and his Chinese girlfriend hold hands around school and town, trouble quickly escalates from a thrown rock to a fire at the tree house to vandalism. The story is filled with colorful characters, richly evocative language, and episodes both poignant and charmingly funny. As Paolo learns lessons of tolerance and friendship during a time of burgeoning suspicion, sensitive readers will understand that their importance is timeless. Serve this slice of Paolo's hectic and colorful life to fans of Smith's The Boys of San Joaquin (2005) and Probably the World's Best Story about a Dog and the Girl Who Loved Me (2006, both S & S)—and anyone you might persuade to take a bite.—Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA

Gr 9 Up—Fuzzy, pipe-cleaner chickens star in this photographic spoof on high school. All the standard characters are here—the vapid popular girl and her wannabe sidekick, angst-ridden boy, overweight geek girl, gay guy, and unpopular rich boy. While some of the scenes are laugh-out-loud funny, the humor consists largely of poking fun at amplified stereotypes. The full-color photography is well done, and the scenes are craftily put together, but the book is light on story. Still, teens who enjoy Jim Benton's "It's Happy Bunny" may get a kick out of it.—Angela J. Reynolds, Annapolis Valley Regional Library, Bridgetown, NS, Canada

Gr 9 Up—Four best friends—Fiona, Killian, Alma, and Yoli—plan to take a celebratory cruise after their high school graduation. On the eve before their voyage, a midway fortune teller makes a dire prediction: there will be eight days of strife and storms, bonds will be broken, and one of them will not come home. The warning hangs over the girls like a black cloud throughout their trip, and unexpected things begin to happen. Did Madame Fortuna know their fate or is their fear creating a self-fulfilling prophecy? Bad boys, careless actions, stolen kisses, emotional turmoil, jealousy—what could cause this faithful (until now) foursome to split up? Fans of Lynda Sandoval's Chicks Ahoy (S & S, 2006) will enjoy this read-alike. It's a fun, flirty, and frank take on teens cruising for self-discovery, but readers may be slightly disappointed not to see more character growth in Killian and Alma by the book's end.—Terri Clark, Smokey Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 9 Up—Kat Flynn's mother is a professional midwife and instinctively seems to know how to make people feel at home. But the 16-year-old and her mother don't seem to get along. Kat feels she can't talk to her parent without getting a lecture or instructions on what she should be doing, and that she is always doing something wrong. But with the help of one of her mother's clients, Kat sees herself and her mom in a new light. This book covers topics that are familiar to most readers of YA fiction, but most of the characters are well developed and the themes are addressed in a fresh manner. Kat is generally confident and secure, and the relationships among the characters are generally realistic and well rounded. The ending is hopeful without being overly romanticized, and readers will celebrate the emotional growth of both the teen and her mother.—Natasha Forrester, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Gr 5–8—Having escaped from the Khan and traveled across the desert, Elissa continues her journey to be reunited with her father. She and her friend Maya arrive in the strange city of Alhamazar and board a ship bound for Gravesport. However, when Elissa sneaks ashore, she becomes lost in the marketplace and is left behind. Rescued by a kindhearted sailor, she is promised safe passage and a job as cook aboard the ramshackle Swamp Maiden. Along the way, Elissa and the crew help a mysterious young noble displaced from his country, elude gun smugglers, outrun a dangerous one-eyed man, and free a captive Windsinger (who can raise the wind with her voice). Throughout, Elissa feels her magical abilities growing: she can now communicate with plants as well as animals and uses this newfound knowledge to help her friends. The ending sets up the sequel nicely. This adventure story is filled with humor, endearing characters, and mild fantasy elements. However, children unfamiliar with Elissa's Quest (Delcoarte, 2007) will want to read it first in order to better understand the characters.—Ginny Collier, Dekalb County Public Library, Decatur, GA

Gr 6–8—Mélie, nine, lives with her father and her "two" mothers. Sometimes the woman is warm and loving, but more often she is cold, angry, and verbally abusive. But because she is adept at acting like a proud, caring parent, no one understands why the child is so unhappy, although no one appears to care very much. Mélie doesn't know why her father is becoming more distant and her mother more hateful, but she attempts to control the situation with rituals like walking around her room 10 times in one direction and then in the other, and stopping to pray at a crucifix on the wall. She steps only on white tiles in the hallway with the hope of bringing her "rosy" mother back. The story becomes tedious and repetitious as the lonely child creates more compulsive behaviors, her father essentially abandons her, and her mother becomes more spiteful. In desperation, Mélie confides in a grandmother, who accuses her of misinterpreting and being ungrateful. Even the child's only friend doesn't believe her. It's only when her mother takes 14-year-old Mélie to a psychologist ("Since you're behaving like a nut…") that there's a glimmer of hope for the girl. The author or translator keeps readers at a distance and this, combined with the story's abrupt, open-ended conclusion, causes a disconnect. Emotions are explained but not successfully conveyed. Mélie's circumstances should elicit empathy, but the dry, matter-of-fact narrative creates a detachment and an indifference to her plight.—Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 4–7—After their mother dies, 12-year-old Billy and his stubborn 16-year-old sister, Edna Rose, decide to leave their home in Skagway, AK, and find their father, who's gone in search of gold in the Yukon Territory. Edna becomes Ed, a mean-tempered boy, and the grieving children set off ill-prepared on a journey that many do not survive. What ensues is an unrealistic adventure story of two young people surviving against overwhelming odds. Luck befalls them time and again as they are befriended by a young man named who happens to have extra supplies, make it across the Canadian border, and are reunited with their father. When the family strikes it rich along Bonanza Creek, Billy becomes increasingly discontent as he is continually left out of important family decisions because of his age. He runs away to find his sled dog, who was sold to sustain the family, and makes his way back home, where he tries to break into the newspaper business. Billy's relationships with his sister and father, including the family's eventual reunion, often seem contrived. Several of the characters are based on historical figures, such as Soapy Smith, who orchestrated numerous scams in Skagway. Despite these inclusions, the story remains clichéd and doesn't quite capture the excitement or the harsh realities of the real Klondike gold rush.—Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 8 Up—This fantasy depicts a society of child slaves working the fields collecting shards. Penned up like animals at night by their harsh masters, the "Spears," these youngsters have only distant memories of life before they were kidnapped from their villages. They are set free in the confusion of the war between the Spears and the "soldiers of the Outside" over the shards. They escape into a world only few of them remember or know how to exist in. Hiding from both the Spears and the Outsiders, they travel as far away as they can from their prison and see the horrors of war in the process. When the children reach the villages outside Grassland, they realize that the Spears may not be so different from them after all, despite their cruelty. This adds a surprising plot twist. The characters are slowly developed, and in the end readers are left with a better idea of what makes them behave as they do. The mood is sustained well throughout as a general sense of unease builds from the first chapter on. Readers know that something horrible is going to happen. This is an interesting book that could be a hit with slower readers, and a definite first purchase for most collections.—Jennifer-Lynn Draper, Children's Literature Consultant, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Gr 6–8—Sam Davis, confined to a wheelchair by crippling cerebral palsy, has two passions: basketball and the life of Winston Churchill. His beloved nurse cum companion, Miss Perkins, lived through the war in England and reads him multiple biographies of the prime minister as she shares her own stories of war-torn London. The novel is set in the 1960s, prior to the advent of the law mandating education of all children, and Sam is precluded from attending public school. When Miss Perkins offers to accompany him in the classroom, he finally has a chance to show what he can do. He wins over his reluctant teacher, but is unable to convince the principal that he should stay. In the midst of his struggles at school, his mother leaves the country with a new male friend and places him in an institution for children who are mentally disabled. White has created a 12-year-old with a vast life of the mind, making up for his physical disabilities. In spite of his many hardships, Sam perseveres and does not merely survive, he thrives. Strong character development is combined with an accurate representation of the lack of educational opportunities for those who were physically and mentally disabled pre-IDEA. The interweaving of Churchill's voice and strength of personality adds to the depth of the plot and allows Sam to have an intellectual companion, given the absence of any friends his own age.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 5 Up—As a person of Chinese ancestry who dares to venture beyond the confines of his own ethnic enclave, Calvin "Flash" Chin, a recent high-school graduate, finds the America of 1939 to be a dangerous place. Persuaded by a couple of fast-talking recruiters to join a barnstorming basketball team composed entirely of Chinese Americans, he leaves the safety of San Francisco's Chinatown to travel with his teammates to small towns throughout the West, playing against the local talent. The stories that Calvin has heard of violence against previous generations of Chinese workers are never far from his mind, and he learns firsthand that unthinking, knee-jerk hostility toward all outsiders is still very much a part of the American landscape. Prejudice both crude and subtle is pervasive, as is the threat of violence. Neither the natural beauty of the land nor the joy of athletic competition ever completely dispels the atmosphere of menace. Calvin, straddling two cultures, draws comfort and solace from his heritage even as he explicitly rejects the spirit of interconnectedness that animates his elders' worldview. Readers with a taste for sports history will enjoy the fact-based account of the hardscrabble existence of Depression-era barnstorming teams. A worthy addition to this important series.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT

Gr 4–7—In 1853 Pittsburgh, Owen Burke, 13, and his younger brother are abandoned by their widowed mother. Soon the boys are on an orphan train that will ostensibly take them to a better life on a farm. Owen jumps off and finds his way to a circus boat. Befriended by Solomon, an elderly former slave, the boy is given work mucking the animals' stalls and keeping the boat clean. He feels loyal to his mentor and develops a trustful relationship with Little Bet, an elephant. The boy is also taken under the wing of Mr. Greene, who runs the print shop and whose son, Caleb, becomes a surrogate younger brother. A sudden turn of events includes a yellow fever outbreak in New Orleans, a storm that forces the end of the River Palace circus, the sale of Solomon despite his "free papers," and an appearance by the famous clown Dan Rice, who buys Little Bet. While Owen agrees to join Rice, he also receives an offer to move with Caleb and his family to Philadelphia as their stable boy, learns that his brother has been adopted and is back in Pittsburgh, and determines to find and free Solomon. Although Owen seems more insightful than a 13-year-old is likely to be, his engaging narration moves along at a satisfying pace, and the door is left open for a sequel.—Sheila Fiscus, Our Lady of Peace School, Erie, PA

Gr 6–10— Friends explores why it is important to cultivate and maintain close relationships throughout one's life. It guides readers through different types of friendship, focusing on being good to oneself as a key element to being a good friend to others. Walking provides strategies for building confidence and overcoming obstacles to happiness. It delves into the primary ways teens judge themselves and explores self-confidence as it applies to dealing with both family and outsiders. Both books have average-quality cartoons on every page. These translations have some odd sentence structures. Neither volume is groundbreaking, but both provide solid support for navigating adolescence.—Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta

Gr 5–8—These books introduce important ruins and explain the archaeological processes behind their discoveries. Each volume details the major archaeologists and researchers involved, including their personal and professional motivations, found in the primary-source excerpts that dot the pages. Differing scientific opinions are also presented, such as theories on why Angkor Wat faces west. Native terminology-Sanskrit terms related to Angkor Wat, and Rapanui words for Easter Island's statues, for example—is provided for many relevant places and objects. The present-tense, chronological texts are easily accessible, provide sufficient information for reports, and are reinforced by full-color maps and archival illustrations and color photographs of the structures. Easter complements Caroline Arnold's Easter Island (Clarion, 2000), but these books focus more on the complexities of archaeological work than comparative works. Good choices for libraries in need of updates for their social-studies collections.—Jeff Meyer, Slater Public Library, IA

Gr 7 Up—A general overview of the myths, beliefs, and traditions of Native Americans as viewed through the art, artifacts, and stories of more than 40 tribes and nations. Using a literary approach, each chapter begins with a poem by Dunn and includes retellings of traditional stories from various tribes. The layout and photographs are truly stunning, but have more of an adult coffee-table book look than a kid-friendly style, and the text of the actual stories is small and hard to read. The content is alternately scholarly and whimsical, so that the audience and purpose are unclear. Unclear also is what, exactly, members of each tribe still believe and practice, and what was believed or practiced in a generalized past. While outstanding for its art and artifact pictures, and useful to pique interest in the mystical/literary aspects of Native American beliefs, this volume will not serve well as a research/report tool despite its full index, annotated list of tribes mentioned, credits, and bibliography.—Riva Pollard, Prospect Sierra Middle School, El Cerrito, CA

Gr 9 Up—These poems traverse the steep climb from girlhood to womanhood while unearthing the hard truths hidden within this journey. Divided into three parts—"years at the asylum," "in the hair of the toxic blonde," and "love poems for girls"—the collection touches on anorexia, self-love and loathing, parental relationships, superficiality, losing one's virginity, rape, and love and loss. Block celebrates womanhood, but not in a bubblegum, girl-power way. Plathian symbols abound, from pervasive father issues to Nazi comparisons to insane asylums, real and imagined. The poems feel simultaneously autobiographical and universal. While the death of the narrator's father in "a myth of love for girls" colors her search for a partner, the universal struggle of women to escape or find their father's image in future relationships is aptly captured. The final selections cross into the territory of life lessons learned well beyond the teen experience and perhaps ring too much like motherly advice, but the raw authenticity of the narrator's voice throughout overshadows any later departure. Teenage girls, especially sophisticated, angst-filled poetry readers, will devour this insightful and powerful collection.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 6 Up—This absorbing, large-format collection of sketches, paintings, and historical notes on sword craft is not called an artist's devotion for nothing. Boos's treatment of his subject is reverential and his artwork is outstanding, combining meticulous attention to detail and a designer's sense for layout. The spare text provides just enough information but generally allows the illustrations to speak for themselves. Each chapter covers a different period or place in the history of the sword, including the Iron and Bronze Ages, the Middle Ages in Europe, Japanese samurai and ninjas, the Silla knights of Korea, African sword craft, Islamic designs, and more. Although the author, a former video-game designer, "would have it known that [his] qualifications are modest," he manages to portray an incredible variety of styles, from hilts to blades to the intricate metalwork that makes each sword not just a weapon but also a work of art. It's easy to get caught up in his enthusiasm, and the right reader will spend hours poring over every loving detail. Give this to fans of history, art, or swordplay fantasies.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

Gr 9 Up—On August 31, 1979, tough cop John Busby was shot at close range while driving to work on Cape Cod. Bleeding profusely with the lower half of his face blown off, he realized that somebody wanted him dead, and identified a brazen local bully as the culprit, an arsonist with whose family Busby had clashed on the job. John and his daughter, Cylin, who was nine at the time of the shooting, recount the year that followed in alternating chapters, incorporating candid commentary and sometimes-disturbing detail about a crime that never resulted in arrests. With the entire Busby family under 24-hour police protection, John began the reconstructive surgeries that would stretch for years, while Cylin and her two brothers tried to cope with guards accompanying them to school and the resulting social isolation. John Busby is frank about the corruption in the local police department that let his attacker intimidate anyone he chose, and bluntly describes his frustration and need for revenge in the months following the attack. Cylin speaks with a voice of innocence shattered as she struggles to comprehend what happened to her family and why her friends have abandoned her. When the town balked at the continuing expense of providing personal protection and the constant fear brought the family to the breaking point, the Busbys went into hiding, seeking a return to some semblance of normalcy. The page-turner pace is frequently interrupted by awkwardly placed flashbacks to moments in John's police work, but, ultimately, this is a story of survival and triumph.—Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 7 Up—Carlson describes "how we evolved into the human animals we are and how we can evolve further into humane creatures." She explains that unhappiness and anxieties are the result of actions caused by fears, which have evolved from Stone Age reptilian brains. Humans tend to view themselves as individuals, separate from the rest of the species and life on Earth, instead of connected. However, humans have the ability to reprogram their thinking. Humanity will be responsible for its own next psychological evolutionary step by the choices it makes. The book is organized into small chapters, focusing on the brain as it relates to teen issues such as loneliness, aggression, and sex. Despite the glossary, some scientific terms are undefined and are used frequently enough to make for dense reading. While connections are made to teen issues, the material is unlikely to generate interest in young adults, and there isn't enough information for reports. Dale Carlson's The Teen Brain Book (Bick, 2004) is a more teen-friendly read.—Richelle Roth, Wilmington Public Library, OH

Gr 8 Up—British mathematician Turing (1912–1954) contributed much to what we now call artificial intelligence and computer science. He worked during World War II as a code breaker and used his skills to solve complex German codes, especially the Enigma cipher. But his life was one of difficulty and challenges that often made it hard for him to work effectively. Sometimes his incredible shyness came across as aloofness. A homosexual relationship in 1952 caused him legal woes. It was against the law, and he pled guilty to gross indecency. He was sentenced to a year of probation and hormonal drug therapy. On June 7, 1954, Turing was found dead in his apartment. His death was ruled a suicide, although his mother claimed it was an accident. It occurred during a far more positive time in the man's life and remains controversial. Although this book is filled with many of the technical aspects of mathematics, it is also a story of one man's brilliance and passion. This well-written biography, complete with good-quality photos, gives insight into a man most readers know little about.—Karen Scott, Valley Intermediate School, Pelham, AL

Gr 7 Up—Crowe opens by describing the restrictions that circumscribed the lives of African Americans, including Marshall, before and during the civil rights era, and then covers his childhood, education, and professional years. The author devotes several chapters to the man's brave and dedicated legal work for the NAACP, his strategy in the 1954 Brown vs. Board of Education case, and his years as Solicitor General and Supreme Court Justice, concluding with a chapter on his legacy as a civil rights giant. The book is generally admiring of Marshall and uses excerpts from primary sources to help readers become acquainted with both the professional who worked ceaselessly to improve civil rights and the private individual who had a well-developed sense of humor and expressed opinions in blunt and occasionally salty language. The text is supplemented with average-quality black-and-white photos. Although this book draws on recently published material, it does not significantly expand upon what can be found in James Haskins's well-written Thurgood Marshall (Holt, 1992; o.p.). Additional.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 5 Up—A special memorial edition of "The National News," published a year to the day after Lincoln was assassinated, is how this oversize (12 × 18 inches) chronicle of Lincoln's life is positioned. The combination of a compelling story, engaging visuals, and large format distinguishes this work. Opening with a short note from the publisher that sets the context, the old-fashioned typefaces, stained and yellowed pages, 1860s advertisements, woodcut engravings, and period photographs all contribute to the antique appeal. Details of the president's death are followed by information about the assassin and his accomplices. Following these facts is the history of Lincoln's life, starting with his boyhood, moving through his early years in Illinois, family life with Mary Todd and political career, his rise to the presidency, and, finally, the Civil War, closing with Lee's surrender and the ominous statement: "Five days later Abraham Lincoln became the first president ever assassinated." Ornate running heads listing the time in history and boldface type featuring headlines of the day outline the story, and maps, photos, letters, historical posters, reproductions, and Bing's original artwork appear throughout. Perhaps in keeping with the news-rag style, the author did not include sources, although a chronology of Lincoln's life is added and a note directs readers to the publisher's Web site for bibliographic information. The back page features Whitman's "O Captain! My Captain!" Although too large for most library shelves, the book has great value, and its graphic quality makes it worth the search for space.—Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

Gr 4–8—War is hell, and not just for the soldiers who go off to fight it. In interviews with approximately 40 children, all of whom have at least one parent who is serving, or has served, in Iraq or Afghanistan, Ellis shows just how hard it is on the family members left behind. Ranging in age from 6 to 17, young people from Canada and the United States talk about the things that are on their minds. Worry about their parents' safety, pride in their service to their country, and confusion about why such service is necessary are all intermingled with the everyday concerns of friends, school, and "just getting on with life." Common themes run throughout; many of those interviewed mention how important it is to maintain a normal life and to find people they trust to talk to, and how hard it is when they are not around other families who are experiencing the same issues. Accessible and utterly readable, this book offers a glimpse into current home-front life, and is a primary source of what it means to have a family member serving in a war. While students may find some of the reading repetitive, the book is an excellent resource for opening discussions about the current events.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 6 Up—What did this backwoods boy and this bluegrass girl have in common? Using her signature scrapbook approach, Fleming lays out the answer in a biography that gives equal emphasis to Abraham and Mary Lincoln for an insightful portrait of their lives. Her scholarship over five years pays off with a rich account that is personal and concrete. She recounts Mary's early life as a privileged—but motherless—child, her ambitions for her husband, and her role as "first lady" (a term originally coined for her). Large and small details are juxtaposed with specifics about Lincoln and broadened by Mary's significance. For example, a political decision was made regarding her attendance at the debates; Lincoln wanted to preserve his "common man" image rather than show off his refined and educated wife. Unlike most biographies, which conclude with Lincoln's death, this one follows Mary's story to the end, detailing Robert Todd's role in her commitment to an insane asylum, Tad's death, and her own demise. Presented in period typefaces, the boxed bits of text, sidebars, and numerous running heads and subheads add detail. From portraits to pets, the book contains a wide variety of graphics, including written and visual primary documents that enrich every spread. Notes, resources, and source notes are exemplary. It's hard to imagine a more engaging or well-told biography of the Lincolns.—Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

Gr 3–6—This combination travel memoir/craft book helps children to understand the meaning of the crafts and their importance to West African culture. Color photos, most of which were taken by the author during her visit to Ghana, appear on every page. A brief history of West Africa and Ghana is included. Children will learn that Adinkra printing (done with blocks carved from a gourd) has 53 designs, each with its own meaning and name. Kids can print their own Adinkra cloth using a potato stamp, and they'll see how to wear it and on what occasion. Adult help may be needed for some projects and steps. Other projects include pot coiling, making masks, and weaving kente strips. Children will also learn how to make and play a drum and about the role of music in Ghana today. With its combination of history, culture, and activities, this beautifully designed book will be a useful and popular addition to most collections.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 10 Up—These books' subtitles are apt, as the works gather relevant information in single, handy volumes. The writing is clear and understandable. For instance, Rich and Poor explains the Gini Coefficient, a difficult concept, in a simple, straightforward manner that will be understandable to most students. Pertinent black-and-white graphs, charts, and tables clarify data. The books include "Background and History," "Problems, Controversies and Solutions," "Worldwide Perspectives," "Biographical Sketches," and primary sources. In addition, Social Security includes a world chronology that relates significant reforms and innovations in other countries' national pension programs. Though the titles suggest a U.S. focus, they also include global perspectives.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School Library, Lancaster, PA

Gr 4–8—This anthology highlights the use of rhythm and vernacular in hip-hop, rap, and African-American poetry. The 51 pieces—which also include a passage from Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech—use gospel rhythms, "hambone" rhythms (which Giovanni explains in her informative introduction), jazz and blues rhythms, and language from the fields and the city streets. Artists range from Langston Hughes to Kanye West, from Eloise Greenfield to Queen Latifah. Much of the subject matter focuses on hope, self-esteem, respect for the past, and determination to make a better future. A few selections are more playful, like an excerpt from "Principal's Office" by Young MC. The accompanying CD enables readers to hear many of the pieces spoken or performed by the artists. Meanwhile, a team of five illustrators provides colorful, lively pictures that add atmosphere and personality (without a lot of depth, however). This volume is much denser than it first appears, and will provide classroom teachers with a substantial amount of material. The fact that an important historical writer like James Weldon Johnson appears in the same book as contemporary musician Lauryn Hill may help some kids see the older writers with a fresh eye, and may also introduce today's artists to teachers and librarians. Granted, not all of the rap and/or hip-hop verses have the concise nature of what has been considered "real" poetry, and, in this context, some of them work better in audio than on the printed page. Still, this is an interesting, worthwhile collection.—Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL

Gr 3–8—This fascinating history covers animals from the nine-inch-tall Hyracotherium that existed millions of years ago to the wild horses that live today in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Whether showing the distinctive shape of the face of the Przewalski horse or the unique patterns on different zebra species, first-rate photos perfectly complement the informative and well-written narrative. Colorful illustrations of prehistoric horses, and descriptions of differences from modern horses in terms of their size and number of toes, will intrigue readers. Valuable facts are included about wild-horse sanctuaries and other organizations. A visual and informational blue-ribbon winner.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 6–10—Colorful and compact, with attractive covers and an appealing layout reminiscent of teen magazines, these books feature numerous accounts from real teens dealing with a variety of issues. The stories, while not overly preachy, are brief and generally upbeat. I Did It deals with mainly negative actions (crime, pregnancy, dropping out, gossiping, body art), but then awkwardly switches gears toward some positive acts including saving lives, resisting drugs, and doing charity work. Sisters and Brothers flows well, covering the effects of birth order, the importance of siblings, and issues involved with step, half, foster, and adopted siblings, and being an only child. Each book has excellent black-and-white photographs of a diverse array of teens. Good fits for family and health classes.—Marcia Kochel, Olson Middle School, Bloomington, MN

Gr 5–8—Students with an interest in the weird and unusual will find this book fascinating. It begins with an introduction to human senses and continues with chapters devoted to phenomena such as the "sixth sense," synethesia, and intuition. One of the most interesting sections discusses animals that use their senses in unusual ways, such as dogs that are trained to detect cancer by scent. The author liberally incorporates well-documented quotes from experts. Scientific explanations for many of the phenomena are evenly balanced with personal anecdotes from individuals with unusual experiences. The black-and-white illustrations and photographs are plentiful enough to make the text accessible to reluctant readers. Accurate, entertaining nonfiction.—Lindsay Cesari, Baldwinsville School District, NY

Gr 7 Up—This book answers many questions about the unassuming billionaire from Omaha. Buffett's life, including a detour to Washington, DC, as his father served in the House of Representatives, is detailed on both personal and professional levels. Johnson focuses on the subject's relentless pursuit of perfection in finding companies worthy of his investment and avoiding areas, like technology, that he doesn't fully trust. Using many examples, she highlights how the man researches a company, what criteria he uses to determine whether or not to invest, and his commitment to Berkshire Hathaway's shareholders. These anecdotes make the book accessible and demystify the sometimes-confusing world of stocks and investments. The book concludes with a chapter on Buffett's relationship with another billionaire maverick, Bill Gates, and describes how Buffett has pledged the bulk of his personal fortune to Gates's foundation for promoting health care and education initiatives worldwide. A fair number of color photos is included.—Carol Fazioli, Gwynedd-Mercy College, Gwynedd Valley, PA

Gr 5–10—This collection begins well, with directions and diagrams for how to fold an origami water bomb from a six-inch square of paper. But it soon grows into a mishmash of items that can be found quickly and easily in a hundred other books and on the Internet. They include how to polish your shoes (but curiously, not how to tie a tie); a deservedly forgotten short story, "The Last of the Lizards," from a 1938 collection called Modern Wonders for Boys; a list of the U.S. presidents and another of the rulers of Great Britain; an article, "Ten World Famous Battles"; another on keeping guinea pigs; and a diagram showing how to use semaphore flags. Lewis passes along what are reputedly the world's funniest, and second-funniest, jokes. About half of the articles contain small black-and-white diagrams and maps, but far too many don't. While many of the selections are amusing or tell intriguing stories, others offer nothing special. Conn and Hal Iggulden's The Dangerous Book for Boys (HarperCollins, 2007) is a better choice.—Walter Minkel, Austin Public Library, TX

Gr 3–6—This drawing guide presents basics (starting with circles) for beginning artists. Readers will discover a wealth of information as they sketch a variety of equine subjects in action or in various poses—grazing, lying down, walking, trotting, cantering, galloping, jumping, and rearing. An Arabian, a draft horse, Appaloosas, a Shetland, racehorses, and even a unicorn and winged horse are included. A few sentences of historical information about each type of horse informs youngsters beyond simple drawing instruction. How to draw foals and face markings and an explanation of typical horse colors complement an introductory illustrated spread that identifies the terminology needed to describe horse parts or tack. The accessible instructions are presented with finished, illustrated demonstrations in colored pen to create an easy-to-use and attractive how-to for young artists.—Mary Elam, Forman Elementary School, Plano, TX

Gr 6 Up—An ambitious undertaking even for Macaulay, this volume tackles the human body in the author's usual style. Divided into seven sections that connect related systems, the book covers cellular structure at the atomic scale, DNA, and metabolism; respiration and circulation; digestion and elimination; the nervous and endocrine systems; the immune system and fighting infections; the skeleton, musculature, and movement; and reproduction. Macaulay combines a detailed description with frequently whimsical, yet very informative, color diagrams to illustrate the body's functions. At times challenging due to the nature of the topic (e.g., cellular chemistry, nerve impulses), the text incorporates the same subtle humor found in the artwork to enhance the book's appeal without sacrificing its utility. As Macaulay shies away from no topic in his frank, scientific discussions, the result is a very complete description of the "mechanical" aspect of human anatomy that is at once enlightening, entertaining, and a visual delight.—Jeffrey A. French, formerly at Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Gr 7 Up—This deliberate and detail-oriented book focuses on the tremendous efforts made by civil rights workers to end segregation in Birmingham, AL, and the impact their actions had on American views of race relations. In 1956, Birmingham was considered to be the most segregated city in America. Civil rights leaders struggled to communicate the inhumanity of segregation to the rest of the United States. Finally, they made the difficult decision to mobilize children, encouraging them to march nonviolently as a protest tactic. Mayer provides a factual and fascinating picture of the widespread criticism and praise brought about by this controversial idea. Long patches of text are broken up by relevant archival photographs, and important sections have bright-red headings. The stirring photographs of the participants, and their riveting personal accounts, create an intimate account of the times. The book's focus on the experiences of young people is a valuable perspective that will engage readers.—Margaret Auguste, Franklin Middle School, Somerset, NJ

Gr 8–10—The cover of this poetry collection looks like a student notebook, complete with pen drawings, price tags, and a warning: "Private Keep Out." Inside, on lined paper, are 41 illustrated poems about animals that bear a somewhat exaggerated resemblance to human adolescents. The first and last selections, from the perspective of the "Camouflaged Chameleon," frame the story. This "wallflower" hides beneath a chair when the Animals Anonymous therapist falls asleep, and then takes notes on the following sessions to use as blackmail, but by the end, decides to keep the critters' secrets. The verses personify the animals, blurring teen stereotypes together with species traits. The "Smart Ass" tells of a donkey held back a grade. In "Bee Biology" (full of hidden science facts), the queen bee rhapsodizes over her drones: "I tell each he'szzz my soul mate./Come on Boyszz!!!—Let's pollinate./(I'm no bee slut. It's just genetic.)" Other poems contain worldly messages like that of the "Laughless Giraffe" whose long neck enables it to see pollution and war. Still others seem to be included merely for slapstick effect, such as "Rabbit Habit," about a nose-picking rabbit. The illustrations, created using ballpoint pen and Adobe Photoshop, have that great notebook-doodle flair and enhance the text and overall book design. An additional purchase for teen poetry sections.—Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA

Gr 6 Up—Miller covers the history, background, practice, and future of technology in art, focusing on how digital art is made and how it works. The first chapter covers the "archaeology" of the genre, including harmonographs, oscillons and electronic abstractions, and fractals. By extension, the author also draws parallels between math and art and manages to make the mathematical genesis of the technique fascinating and easily accessible. This chapter also looks at the contributions to the development of computer-generated art of such artists as Robert Rauschenberg and Andy Warhol. Succeeding sections discuss the "hows" of various methods such as computer-aided drawing, animation, 3-D modeling, and motion-picture special effects. The final chapter looks at career possibilities. This beautifully designed book will be an excellent background source for those beginning to experiment with art on the computer, or who are looking for information on digital art as a career option.—Jane Barrer, PS/IS 111 Adolph S. Ochs School, New York City

Gr 3–6—Mozz's work invites readers to create their own explanations for life's mysteries and to use poetry to imagine the existence of everyday objects. A woolly mammoth knits a sweater from its own wool, thus disappearing; a Trojan pig is left outside the gates of Troy due to its odor; and poor pandas are frightened by their dinners, "bamBOO!" And there is philosophy: "To sum up the life of a bar of soap:/Diligence, dirty, hard work, hope…./But what does it get for all its troubles—Nothing but a great big mouthful of bubbles!" Succinct pen-and-ink, absurdist cartoons with zany rhymes turn what readers think they know upside down. The subjects include the spelling bee that "loves to buzz along…," the unfortunate and now cautious hen that "laid Humpty Dumpty on that wall," the caterpillar zoo where the "sound of tiny wings" may reveal why the "wiggly zoo is empty." A Shel Silverstein-like reading experience in which everything is looked at in a new, fresh way, this volume is a great partner for poetry workshops.—Teresa Pfeifer, Alfred Zanetti Montessori Magnet School, Springfield, MA

Gr 6 Up—Poems in various forms parallel the reproduced text of A Narrative of the Life & Adventures of Venture, a Native of Africa, published in 1798. Nelson's depictions and interpretations of scenes from Venture's account bring a musical, emotional, and inquisitive context to the true story of an enslaved African who eventually bought freedom for himself and his family. Similar in format to Fortune's Bones (2004) and Carver (2001, both Front St), the volume features poems on the right-hand pages, facing the ongoing narrative on the left (amazingly, the two keep pace). Text floats over abstract earth-toned art that lends qualities of light and texture to match the tone of each selection. The poems have both the sense of natural speech and of oratory, giving rhythmic majesty to intensely detailed physical and emotional landscapes. They are dense but rich, and encourage readers to approach the 18th-century narrative (which may seem oddly narrow-minded or stilted to today's youngsters) in a variety of ways. Respectful of both her audience and her subject, Nelson adds to her unique body of work connecting youngsters to history through a combination of primary-source material and verse.—Nina Lindsay, Oakland Public Library, CA

Gr 4–6—Nobleman portrays teenaged Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster as outcasts who found solace in the world of pulp magazines and comics. Their peers did not understand their fascination with tales of musclemen and detectives with gadgets, and their teachers deemed the stories that they loved to write and illustrate "trash." Despite these obstacles, the two friends continued writing and illustrating, and in 1934, Siegel had an avalanche of ideas about a new type of hero that he then shared with Shuster, who drew the first concept illustrations of Superman. It took another four years, however, before the superhero would make his public debut in Action Comics #1. MacDonald's illustrations are a tribute to 1930s pulp art, from the lines of the characters outlined in brown to the washes of yellow in the background. While the layout remains primarily in picture-book format, comic-book elements appear sporadically, such as with phrases separated from the rest of the text and placed in oval bubbles. One spread also uses panels to depict Siegel's thoughts as he conceptualized Superman. The story ends with the young men successfully landing a publisher. The afterword fills in more of the details, including Siegel and Shuster's long-running battle with DC Comics for a greater share of the profits, how their Jewish background affected Superman during World War II, and their final years. Boys of Steel is a solid introduction to the history of Superman's creation, especially for children who find an outlet in storytelling and art.—Kim T. Ha, Elkridge Branch Library, MD

Gr 5 Up—When you're a kid, you think that bigger is better. Machines, buildings, ice-cream cones—they're all better with an increase in dimensions. DK has put together a visual encyclopedia that runs with the concept of cramming a million bits of information into one volume. The book is not 300 pages of arbitrary fact. There is an organization to the madness. Arranged in sections from nature to nutrition, the human body to technology, people and places to art and culture, the breadth of subject matter is impressive. Vital to the operation are the photographs. This may be the single largest collection of pictures kids have ever seen in one place, and each page shows as much as it tells. Readers can open it up, discover something new, and enjoy. A quality selection for most collections.—Travis Jonker, Dorr Elementary School, Holland, MI

Gr 3–6—Chronologically arranged spreads begin with "A marshy home 16000 B.C.," continue on with such chapters as "Kublai Khan's city A.D. 1290," "The Forbidden City A.D. 1406," and "The Cultural Revolution A.D. 1966," and conclude with "Museum City Today." Paragraphs around a large central picture describe what is going on and are written in the present tense, which can be a bit confusing at first. The pictures of different scenes or details are also captioned. The layout is attractive, and the full-color illustrations invite close inspection. There is no sugarcoating here; soldiers burn houses and kill residents, and intellectuals are put to death during the Cultural Revolution. The narrative seems to be written from the Chinese perspective of each time period, such as referring to the "hated Yuan" or stating that "the Forbidden City has stood for everything that is wrong with the 'old' China." This style requires a bit of sophistication on the part of readers, who may not have the background knowledge to put events into context or assess its historical accuracy. What is misleading about this volume is that after eight entries discussing different locations and conquerors, the concentration is on the Forbidden City. There is nothing about Beijing as a whole or the modern aspects of the metropolis.—Clare A. Dombrowski, Amesbury Public Library, MA

Gr 4–8—Bold and graphic, with an attractive design, this title will appeal to budding artists and comic-book fans. The reproductions of Lichtenstein's work are large format, in full color, and provide eye candy for kids who aren't interested in reading the text. Cleverly inserted in between Lichtenstein's pieces are reproductions of the classic and comic-book art that inspired him, such as Henri Matisse's The Red Studio and even advertisements for shoes. Lichtenstein is known for his paintings inspired by comic books, but Rubin does an excellent job of mentioning his other work, such as his sculptures and landscape art. The insightful quotes and most of the references to his personal life serve only to explain how his art evolved or how he came to be in a particular place in the world. This approach is effective because the star here is the art and the process. The text (a bold typewriter font) is simple but descriptive and compelling. Lichtenstein's signature Benday dots appear in all of the page margins; even the page numbers are enclosed in circles. The back matter is exceptional as well, with a thorough glossary and index and an expansive list of additional resources. The thoughtful design and content show that the author truly had young people in mind while making this book.—Laura Lutz, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 5 Up—Part history of early photography, part Lincoln biography, and part documentation of the period, this slim book speaks volumes in both words and pictures. Each spread is a self-contained "chapter." The first few provide an overview of Lincoln's life and the role that photography would play in his career. Subsequent spreads are arranged chronologically. The verso begins with a heading and a highlighted Lincoln quote, followed by a page of engaging, insightful text with a small insert photo or reproduction. Captions for both the insert and the facing full-page image appear at the bottom of the page. The generously sized photographs reveal Lincoln at different stages of his political career as well as on the battlefield; his family; and key figures such as Stephen A. Douglas, Robert E. Lee, Ulysses S. Grant, and John Wilkes Booth. Historical drawings and paintings, broadsides, and cartoons are also included. The text not only offers a fascinating updated history on the eve of the bicentennial, but also includes many colorful anecdotes and quotes about the mischievous Lincoln boys, Lincoln's beard, and Thanksgiving. This appealing, accessible title will be savored from beginning to end.—Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools

Gr 3–6—Just try to keep kids away from this collection. Inspired book design makes the volume look like an old-school comic. The front cover features an elementary-aged Scieszka popping up out of a military tank, surrounded by explosions and bombers, while the back advertises a "Treasure Chest of Fun" and displays chapter titles and excerpts along with nostalgic graphics. Scieszka answers the oft-asked question, "Where do you get your ideas?" with a slew of childhood anecdotes and his family's escapades that have given him plenty of material from which to draw. Born in 1954, the second of six brothers, he writes about Catholic and military schools, buying gifts, chores, and hand-me-downs—all familiar experiences related with a specific Scieszka twist. His mother, a nurse, insisted that her sons use proper terms for anatomy ("rectum" rather than "butt") and bodily functions ("urinate" rather than "pee"), making way for several laugh-out-loud moments. Some stories are just amiably funny, such as wearing recycled Halloween costumes, while others help readers understand more about how the author developed his unique sense of humor. Although it includes the car trip story from Guys Write for Guys Read (Viking, 2005), Knucklehead is aimed at a younger audience. Family photographs and other period illustrations appear throughout. Entertaining and fast-moving, silly and sweet, this homage to family life is not to be missed.—Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA

Gr 7–10—This excellent overview is packed with interesting tidbits, such as the fact that most people are paralyzed during sleep. Scott is careful to point out which information is factual and which is theory, an important distinction. Chapters include the history of what we know about sleep, what happens while you sleep, theories about dreams, and sleep disorders. There is a good explanation of brain activity, as well. The fanciful cartoon illustrations add to the book's appeal. This is not an exhaustive resource, but it is interesting, highly engaging, and fun to read. It leaves readers wanting to learn more about how they spend about one third of their time.—Robin Henry, Griffin Middle School, Frisco, TX

Gr 7 Up—This book teaches young people about the attributes of leadership through profiles of 39 successful and influential people. It opens with an introductory essay about Thoreau, whose work and philosophy influenced many of the individuals featured in the book. Unfortunately, it places Thoreau's time at Walden Pond in 1889, instead of the correct year of 1845. Most of the people are well known, such as Lincoln, Mother Teresa, Jackie Robinson, Einstein, and Tiger Woods, but some will be less familiar to young readers, such as musician Bob Marley, gay-rights activist Harvey Milk, and humanitarian Albert Schweitzer. Each profile includes a full-page photo, a time line, and a four- to six-paragraph essay that provides limited biographical information and a discussion of how the person's success was the result of a characteristic or attribute such as perseverance, forbearance, humility, or courage. The second section of the book offers photos of and quotes from another 25 leaders. All of the pictures are tinted green. There is a bibliography, but no index. Although this book might draw browsers, its message is sometimes overstated, and the profiles are very brief. Since so many collections hold either collective or individual biographies of many of these individuals, this title will add little to most libraries.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 5–8—Sheinkin tells readers that this book is the one that he always wanted to write, one that is packed with "all the true stories and real quotes that textbooks never tell you." While he provides plenty of material about military objectives, battles, and political and military leaders, such as the title's often-miserable Lincoln and Jefferson Davis, he also includes the stories of spies, drummer boys, women who masqueraded as men to join the army, and African Americans. He ends with Grant's surrender at Appomattox and the Lincoln assassination, followed by a "Whatever Happened To…?" chapter that tells readers about the postwar lives of many of those he discusses in the text. The author's very readable effort combines the clear prose, objectivity, and good organization of a textbook with a chatty style and stories and quotes that will make historical figures real to readers. Chapters have intriguing titles, and the text is broken into easily digested segments. The book is supplemented with a variety of cartoons, illustrations, maps, and diagrams. It will hold the attention of students who are interested in the Civil War, and is broader in scope than Doreen Rappaport and Joan Verniero's United No More!: Stories of the Civil War (HarperCollins, 2006), which focuses on individual stories. While the coverage is somewhat superficial, Sheinkin's book is a good choice to introduce students to the Civil War.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 6–10—This title is a solid choice for report writers. After a brief overview of the role of mathematics in ancient Greece, the book profiles Pythagoras, Euclid, Archimedes, and Hypatia. The presentation is greatly enhanced by full-color maps, reproductions, and artifacts, as well as numerous sidebars, diagrams, and time lines. Michael J. Bradley's The Birth of Mathematics: Ancient Times to 1300 (Chelsea House, 2006) covers six more mathematicians and includes Thales.—Caroline Geck, Newark Public Schools, NJ

Gr 5–9—Thomas describes Obama as a "new leader who seems to be granting Americans a renewed license to dream," and maintains an admiring tone throughout. She opens with a look at his Kenyan father and American mother and covers Obama's childhood, education, and early influences. The author also relates his efforts as an adult to learn about his father and his African heritage and to find his place in America. The last chapters chronicle Obama's rapid political ascent and his early victories in the Democratic primary, briefly mentioning some campaign controversies, such as his relationship with outspoken minister Jeremiah Wright. Each section of the book opens with a quote from Obama, and the text is supplemented with black-and-white photos of the senator and his family and friends. Although Thomas does not document her sources, an author's note explains that she draws both from Obama's own memoirs and other published and interview sources. While there is little here that has not been widely reported in the media or adult titles, Thomas's clear prose will help students learn more about the first African American to gain a major party nomination for the presidency.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 8 Up—In this fictionalized memoir, Weatherford has composed nearly 100 first-person narrative poems that detail Holiday's life from birth until age 25, the age at which she debuted her signature song, "Strange Fruit." The poems borrow their titles from Holiday's songs, a brilliant device that provides readers with a haunting built-in sound track. Weatherford's language is straightforward and accessible—almost conversational. She captures the woman's jazzy, candid voice so adroitly that at times the poems seem like they could have been lifted wholesale from Holiday's autobiography, Lady Sings the Blues. Cooper's sepia-toned, nostalgic, mixed-media illustrations provide an emotional counterpoint to the text. Resembling old photographs seen through a lens of aching hindsight, they make explicit the pain that Weatherford studiously avoids giving full voice to in her poems. Although Holiday's early life was one of relentless rejection, discrimination, and poverty, the author stays true to her subject and maintains a resolute and defiant tone, albeit one tinged with regret. Prostitution, rape, jail time, and violence are mentioned, but the book ends on the proverbial high note, before the singer's drug use, alcoholism, and early death. This captivating title places readers solidly into Holiday's world, and is suitable for independent reading as well as a variety of classroom uses.—Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD

Gr 7 Up—This biography focuses on the business trials, tribulations, and triumphs of one of the best-known names in the apparel industry. Born in the Bronx to first-generation Russian Jewish immigrants, Ralph Lifshitz changed his last name to "Lauren" while still a teen. He was interested in fashion from an early age, demonstrating a sense of style that was ahead of the pack. Black-and-white and color photos appear throughout. Written in a lively style, this book is a welcome addition to middle-school collections and libraries serving older reluctant readers.—Sara Rofofsky Marcus, Yeshiva Har Torah, Little Neck, NY

Gr 4–6—In the typical series style, Greek mythology is explored. Each letter is featured in a rhymed verse, some more successful than others. On sidebars, the concept or story is explored further, making the book suitable for children seeking additional information on the subject. While mainly focused on myths, the text also delves into lifestyles and history. Some readers may be confused as to the difference between actual Greek history and mythology, yet there is still an abundance of detail held within these pages; the "Glossary of Gods" does help in sorting out the characters. Coupled with the advanced text, the humorous and sometimes bawdy watercolor cartoons put this into the older age range, though the picture-book format may be off-putting for this audience. A mixed bag for larger collections.—Angela J. Reynolds, Annapolis Valley Regional Library, Bridgetown, NS, Canada