Grades 5 & Up

Gr 6–10—This mix of one part plot, two parts designer name-dropping reads like a novelized Teen Vogue. Fashion-fanatic Imogene plans to spend her summer in Paris immersed in haute couture. But when her irresponsible spending leaves her in hot water with a credit agency, there is nothing for this chic Greenwich girl to do but get a job. Luckily, living in the land of luxury has afforded her some great connections, and she is able to secure a paid internship with a New York City fashion-forecasting agency. She even has time for a side flirtation with a charming Italian boy. Blessed with her artsy father's eye and a certain "je ne sais quoi," Imogene is poised for success. But when a devious senior intern threatens to ruin her newfound happiness, the teen must defend her honor and fight fashion with fashion. As a side bonus, she learns a lesson on the value of integrity and hard work. The cutesy illustrations and trendy references interspersed throughout the book are not enough to surmount the one-dimensional characters, rudimentary story line, and cookie-cutter ending.—Erin Schirota, Bronxville Public Library, NY

Gr 6–10—As if this genre weren't vapid enough already (think Tyne O'Connell's "Calypso Chonicles" [Bloomsbury] meets Lauren Mechling's "Social Climber" books [Houghton]), here is another superrich, overprivileged, flighty white American teen spending her summer without supervision, in Europe. Here, it's Paris, and the charmless "OMG here's what I'm going to wear" protagonist in question is Imogene, a 17-year-old fashion forecaster who stumbles upon a mysterious designer and turns Couture Week on end. It's a simplistic plot made convoluted with impulsive forays into the utterly ridiculous (e.g., being saved from jewel thieves by falling in with a Russian magician's entourage on a passenger train). Even as a madcap mystery of sorts, the whirlwind pace gets considerably gummed up with a glut of fashion references and bad "teen-speak." Occasional full-color illustrations, à la designers' sketches—giving the impression of the characters as nine-year-olds playing dress-up—do give the eye a rest from all the exclamation points. Gaping plot holes, the superficiality of the characters, and utterly banal dialogue render this title difficult to recommend.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library

Gr 8 Up—Disney World's magic depends on both the invisible ranks and on "face" employees, including some young adults who step in to play the character roles when the regulars go on strike. Ella, given to silent sadness over the recent death of her brother and the subsequent decampment of her parents to Africa, lands the plum role of Cinderella as well as the romantic attentions of her Prince Charming. Yet it's Luke, stuck sweating inside the suit of Dale the chipmunk and likewise stuck with a too-perfect girlfriend in Chip, who intrigues Ella. The two reveal their experiences and backgrounds in alternating voices penned by two different authors. While the characters run from princess breakfasts to the daily royal wedding, they fret about their personal lives: Ella is not sure if she's ready for college in Vermont, and Luke wonders if he can walk lockstep into the comfortable future his parents have laid out for him. The authors realistically portray all of the anticipation and thrill of a romance—one in which Ella and Luke share who they are, what they fear, and what they yearn for. A setting filled with Disney flavor and trivia gives readers insider insight into the Magic Kingdom. Able writing moves the story along while strong characterization makes even secondary players come alive.—Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA

Gr 4–8—In Icebreaker, Greg is looking forward to his final year on the junior high hockey team until his stepsister announces that she is going to try out, too. As the already frosty relationship between the two gets even chillier, the hockey team pays the price. Can Greg and Amy demonstrate the kind of teamwork needed on the ice and off the rink as well for the sake of the team and their family? In Too Many Men, Sam's family has recently moved from Calgary to Ottawa. A talented hockey player, Sam quickly becomes the starting goalie of his team. But when his mother breaks her leg and his father is called out of town on business, the Douglas brothers, particularly Sam, have to keep the household running. Between the move, hockey practice and games, his new puppy, and chores, Sam soon finds himself on very thin ice indeed. Can he pull it together before he skates over the edge completely? Both novels are liberally sprinkled with long descriptive passages about hockey and play-by-play accounts of games. A central conflict for the main characters and a tidy resolution in the closing pages finish out these formulaic stories. Fans of the slap shot and hat tricks will be delighted to see their sport featured in these quick, easy reads.—Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta

Gr 4–6—Zibby Payne loves to play soccer with the boys every chance she gets. Everything is just fine, until she gets the lead in the class play about a girl soccer player. Then she finds out that she has to kiss her best guy friend, Matthew, and trouble really begins. The well-paced story builds on funny and engaging sixth-grade characters. With the short chapters and an easy-to-follow plotline, this humorous novel is a good choice for reluctant readers.—Krista Tokarz, Cuyahoga County Public Library, OH

Gr 8 Up—In this sequel to Tithe: A Modern Faerie Tale (S & S, 2002), the coronation of Kaye's boyfriend, Roiben, as King of the Unseelie Court seems to signal an end to their relationship. Silarial, Queen of the rival Seelie Court, persists in warring against Roiben and his folk, Kaye's friend Cornelius is cursed by a faery, and Kaye tells her mom that she's really a pixie changeling and that the woman's human daughter has been living in Faerie since babyhood. All in all, things are not going well in either Faerie or Ironside—what faeries call the human realm, in this case New York City and New Jersey—although, on the positive side, Corny does find love with Luis, a human with the ability to cast off faerie curses. Essential for fans of Tithe, this tale of tough yet romantic punks and misfits, both human and faerie, is told in an authentic street voice. It will appeal to readers who like their magic served with a layer of urban grit.—Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 4–6—Rusty Nail, MN, in 1953 is the backdrop for the mischievous, sometimes hilarious, antics of Franny Hansen and her best friend, Sandy Hellickson. In addition to being rambunctious and fun loving, the 10-year-old is a piano prodigy whose talents risk being wasted by the limited ability of the town's only piano teacher. Enter Olga Malenkov, a mysterious Russian, seemingly the wife of a big-city lawyer who is a former native son of Rusty Nail. The psychology of the McCarthy period spurs the townspeople to gossip and to decide that the stranger is a Communist spy. Franny's mother offers the voice of reason to balance the hysteria and paranoia rampant at the time. When the girls decide to do some spying of their own, Franny discovers that the newcomer plays the piano beautifully. She bargains her way to lessons, and the extent of her talent is discovered. Add to the mix Franny's piano rival—a stereotypically conceited, spoiled, bratty youngster-and a high-stakes competition, and the tension escalates. Blume has skillfully combined humor, history, and music to create an enjoyable novel that builds to a surprising crescendo.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 5–7—Isabelle Bonnard is an 11-year-old lacemaker living near the palace of Versailles. One day, while delivering lace to the palace, she is discovered by Marie Antoinette and taken to be a companion to the queen's young daughter. Thérèse provides her with all the luxuries of court life, but Isabelle is torn between her loyalties to her new friend and to her barely surviving mother and grandmother at home. As threats against the royal family increase, Isabelle sees the unfolding drama through her fresh and increasingly less naive eyes. The author vividly evokes the appalling lack of sanitary facilities, the crowds of vagrants and hangers-on overrunning the palace, the differences within the French social classes, and Louis XVI's fatal dithering when confronted with the National Guard. Isabelle's brother, a groom in the Marquis de Lafayette's stables, supplies the revolutionary perspective. This richly detailed story provides a sympathetic, well-balanced view of this period. An author's note reinforces the credibility of Isabelle's "adoption" by the royal family. A fascinating and well-researched look at 18th-century France.—Quinby Frank, Green Acres School, Rockville, MD

Gr 7 Up—Each of these four stories of summer flings features an introverted teen who comes out of her shell in the throes of first romance. Readers travel the globe to experience a night of clubbing, a week at summer camp, a tour of France, and a college summer school program. Despite a vacuous-looking cover, the values portrayed in the stories have merit, and the characters ring true. The romance, language, and exploits will appeal to general as well as reluctant readers.—Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

Gr 9 Up—Three teens arrive at King's Crown Resort and Spa in Colorado to work for the summer. Claire is a local trying to overcome her party-girl image and turns to God for comfort through a difficult time, but she is rejected by the other girls. Seneca is the daughter of a formerly A-list actress who is struggling to stay on the inside of the Hollywood elite. Drew, an avid runner, has come to train in the thin mountain air, hoping to get an edge on the competition back home in Kansas. The girls, forced together as roommates, clash over everything from bathroom privileges to boyfriends. Tension builds among them and they fight to maintain peace in their small cabin as each one struggles with her own secrets and personal dramas. Not surprisingly, they overcome their differences, become friends, and ultimately share what's going on in their lives. The tired premise offers nothing new or original here. The author spends a great deal of time developing the characters and their separate story lines without focusing on the plot that holds the teens together. The scenes of their fighting and baring their souls are filled with trite dialogue, making for unbelievable teenage angst. For fun summer reads, stick with Ann Brashares's "Sisterhood" books (Delacorte) or Jodi Lynn Anderson's Peaches (HarperCollins, 2005).—Julianna M. Helt, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 7 Up—In Secrets of My Hollywood Life (Little, Brown, 2006), starlet Kaitlin was overwhelmed with instant success and temporarily traded it in for normality. Now she has been cast in a movie by a super-popular director—just the break that she needs from her TV show. The project costars her ex-boyfriend, Drew, and her arch nemesis, creating tension on the set. Worse still is a media campaign that forces the teen to be seen with Drew, which upsets her new boyfriend. Readers will almost feel sorry for Kaitlin, but she handles everything with the charm, poise, and temper of a teenage girl. It is refreshing to meet a chick-lit character who is living in Hollywood, is famous and amazingly rich, and yet maintains moral standards. She is a superstar dealing with things other teens face; as she prepares to host the biggest teen award show, she is nervous about a pimple. Calonita has a knack for nailing down most teens' perception of stardom, and for dotting the scene with famous names of both people and brands.—Emily Garrett, Armstrong Elementary School, Sachse, TX

Gr 4–7—Nathan Wade, a fisherman's son, lives in Saybrook, CT, at the beginning of the American Revolution. When his father enlists in the Continental Army, the 14-year-old stays with relatives to help on their farm. His cousin, David, invents a submarine to be used against the British and asks Nathan to help him build it on a nearby secluded island. In spite of his intense fear of water, he agrees, and learns to overcome his phobia as he ferries back and forth while building the vessel. The submarine, named American Turtle, is towed to New York and employed in an attempt to sink Admiral Howe's flagship, anchored in the harbor. Nathan participates in the August 29, 1776, evacuation of 9000 American soldiers by helping to row men and equipment across the East River under cover of night and fog. The historical events surrounding the first submarine ever used in warfare, outlined in an author's note, are expertly woven throughout this fictional account. Johnson's pen-and-ink illustrations at the beginning of each chapter enrich Carlson's first novel.—Rebecca Sheridan, Easttown Library & Information Center, Berwyn, PA

Gr 6–9—David Dominguez loves to sing, in spite of his migrant-worker father's insistence that it is not a masculine activity. The teen manages to pursue his interest secretly by attending local African-American churches. In so doing, he faces distrust and racism in spite of his musical talent. Ultimately, he wins a competition in which he is the only non-African American. The message that anything is possible if you try is diminished by David's repeated comments that his fellow competitors (whose dreams are presumably as valid as his) aren't very good. Set in California in 1963 and several years prior, the book reads like a memoir, though it is billed as fiction. The period is not clarified until halfway through, making the author's use of the dated terms "whitey" and "colored" jarring. The use of dialect for the African Americans sometimes seems over-the-top. While it may be the product of the author's experience, it can be difficult to decode terms such as "tahmawra" for "tomorrow." David is reasonably well developed, but the secondary characters are flat. The lack of chapter breaks will make this book a challenge for reluctant and struggling readers in spite of its brevity. The singing contest may make the story intriguing to American Idol fans, and David's background in a migrant family, while incidental to the plot, may be of local interest in California. Ultimately, though, the book has limited appeal.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 8–10—When Mickey's dad dies unexpectedly, the last thing she expects is her older brother to reappear. Danny took off after the death of his best friend, the town's football hero, six years earlier, and Mickey hasn't forgiven him for abandoning her. She certainly doesn't want him trying to be part of her life now that she's about to graduate and escape South Texas forever. Danny isn't prepared for Mickey's rejection and still blames himself for Roland's death; he falls into the same behavior that he despised in his father. This makes Mickey angrier, but she still finds herself defending him when other townspeople attack him. In time, the siblings find some commonality through talking about the past. When Danny finds Mickey's beat-up copy of The Outsiders, he remembers how they used to read it together and felt as though they were Darry and Ponyboy. Feels Like Home parallels The Outsiders in many ways, but unlike those characters, Mickey knows that they can't remain kids forever. Letting go of childhood is the only way to move forward with their lives. Texas's obsession with high school football is well described, as are relationships between rich and poor, and Mexican and white. Danny and Mickey's story is a worthwhile purchase, despite numerous subplots and additional characters that are sometimes distracting.—Stephanie L. Petruso, Anne Arundel County Public Library, Odenton, MD

Gr 4–6—When Ronnie's mother injures her knee, Ronnie and her five-year-old brother are sent on a trip with the grandfather they barely know to give her time to heal. It's clearly necessary for the kids to leave their mother in peace, as Gee's ADHD makes him a wearying companion. Lured by Pop's spanking new RV, the siblings are initially willing to travel with him as he scouts out suitable wind-farm locations across Kansas. His involvement with his grandchildren is grudging at best. Ronnie frequently feels hung out to dry while Gee bounces them from one untenable situation into another: climbing to the top of a humongous steam shovel where he hangs paralyzed by fear, trying to hide a stray dog who's stowing away in the trailer, etc. It's only when Gee disappears that Ronnie discovers the depth of Pop's feelings for them. There are some funny moments among the antic-paced events of this novel, and readers will sympathize with Ronnie's situation as she tries to fashion a reasonable facsimile of a vacation out of her difficult babysitting assignment. It's hard to know whether the experience is more satisfying or exhausting.—Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—Jude, 17, is trapped by her mother's promiscuous, abusive, and irresponsible patterns. Always on the move, Stella has left a string of loser men and unsatisfactory towns behind. Now she and Jude are in Ellenville, where Stella's mother lives. Jude has never met her grandmother and craves this family tie, but the woman has had a stroke and is unable to communicate. Jude visits her daily, carrying on a tender conversation in her mind. Life with Stella continues to be ugly, but Ellenville offers some bright spots for Jude. Her art class is a sanctuary. She begins to make friends; best of all, she hooks up with the high school football star, a hunky guy who is bright, likes art, and makes her skin tingle. Jude hopes he will rescue her from her tawdry life. But there's more to her unhappiness than the obvious, and as she reads about van Gogh's life, his emotional struggles resonate with her. Then her mother is ready to move again, Todd doesn't want to commit, and Grandma dies. Jude almost loses hope. Walking with this girl through her depression feels real. Unfortunately, the dialogue doesn't, and too many pat situations compromise the serious nature of this novel.—Alison Follos, North Country School, Lake Placid, NY

Gr 5–8—Balance, like a good tennis racquet, is what Holloway "Hall" Braxton wants and doesn't have. She is 13, a highly successful and bold player on the junior tennis circuit. She has friends, and her parents and coach wholeheartedly believe in her abilities. Still, Hall worries about others' expectations and her own. Janie, her closest competitor, had a mental meltdown and is in the hospital. Hall and her best friend since kindergarten, Eve, aren't seeing eye-to-eye anymore. Polly is the new kid on the block, a wizard at math, who can relate to the pressures that Hall faces. Coach's voice—barking orders in her head, guiding her to victory-is suddenly silent, and Hall is afraid she is losing her nerve, the drive to win, the "zone" that makes tennis seem so effortless and powerful. Her parents are struggling to keep her in competition—equipment and trips to matches are very costly, but suddenly brochures for expensive tennis academies are appearing in their mailbox. Hall doesn't want more pressures in her life—especially since Luke, her idea of a "Greek God," is showing a decided interest. Despite the occasionally adult tone, the first-person narrative intersperses Hall's thoughts and activities with the ever-present and relentless demands of the game, creating a tension and rhythm that will capture readers' attention to the finish, just as a good tennis match should.—Roxanne Myers Spencer, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green

Gr 5–7—This somewhat pedestrian ghost story/murder mystery takes place in Saratoga Springs, NY. Tim, a 14-year-old misfit, moves with his professor parents into Chatsworth Mansion. The house, named for a little-known and florid Victorian writer, is reputed to be haunted by the author's son, a supposed suicide. Tim eventually sees Edmund's ghost and, while investigating his death, the two embark upon an unlikely but strong friendship that allows the boy to become more comfortable around the kids at his new high school as well as to begin dating a classmate (a subplot with its own drama). The mystery itself is rote, and Tim regularly guesses at clues without Coleman giving much evidence to readers. Some aspects of the story seem extremely old-fashioned, such as the constant referencing of Casablanca, while others, such as the enormous trust fund with which Tim purchases the mansion, and the money he makes from the sale of an original Chatsworth manuscript, come across as far-fetched.—B. Allison Gray, John Jermain Library, Sag Harbor, NY

Gr 5–9—In his fifth adventure, Gregor is faced with his most personal challenge in the Underland—a prophecy that seems to foretell his own death. As the final confrontation between the giant rats, led by the powerful Bane, and the humans, led by young queen Luxa and her advisors, approaches, Gregor confronts his own fears and finds his own role in the fighting. The conflict brings his family from New York to the Underland, and Gregor's sister Lizzie finds her own role as the code-breaker, working with a team of representatives of the different underground species to crack the rats' secret code and to anticipate their next movements. As attacks and ambushes bring chaos to the underground city of Regalia, Gregor's role as the warrior means that it's up to him to save the day. A realistic conclusion, including the loss of old friends and a message about the importance of peace and trust, leaves readers with a sense of optimism about the future of the Underland. Friends and foes from the previous volumes reappear here, and Gregor's self-doubts and changing relationship with Luxa add to his depth as a protagonist. Fans of the series will find much to appreciate, from an enigmatic prophecy to the complex rat Ripred, and they'll be drawn in by Collins's tight pacing and sense of urgency.—Beth L. Meister, Pleasant View Elementary School, Franklin, WI

Gr 9 Up—Eleven-year-old Billie is neglected and emotionally abused. Her parents, who were disappointed that she was not a boy, work all day in the fields, leaving her to keep house, cook, and attend school. When a flood threatens their 1968 Missouri community, most residents flee, leaving Billie's family, an elderly neighbor, and the woman's adult son. Billie and Miss Lydia become friends, but the girl is leery of Curtis. Her fear is well grounded, as he lures her to the deserted school and rapes her. Billie tells no one, but Miss Lydia figures it out. The woman, who was sexually abused by her father, protects Billie by staging a shooting in which she mistakes Curtis for a burglar and kills him. When the flood passes and school resumes, Billie becomes friends with a boy who becomes part of the afternoons at Miss Lydia's. Harlan and Billie grow closer as time passes. Miss Lydia ultimately suffers a stroke, and the two teens take care of her until her death. This story is beautiful, painful, and complex, and the descriptions of people, events, and emotions are graphic and tangible. The rape scene is described but not sensationalized. The pain it causes both Billie and Miss Lydia is made real for readers. The language is a bit crude at the beginning, but as Billie's rough edges are smoothed, her language becomes more polished. The ending is somewhat over-the-top, but doesn't detract from the story.—Nancy P. Reeder, Librarian, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC

Gr 5–8—Using a banyan tree and its sheltering branches as a metaphor, De Palma tells the story of a 15-year-old who needs protection and the knowledge that she is loved. Irena runs away from home, leaving behind her abusive father and the memory of her mother, who had recently abandoned them. She survives on the streets of Key West for a while and then stumbles into a job at the Banyan Tree Motel, a run-down place owned by kindhearted Carlotta and her aging brother. The family is loving toward Irena; however, they are barely holding on financially and the fact that Carlotta's daughter is expecting a child makes the situation that much more dire. Enamored with her new "instant family," Irena wants to help, but has no solutions that will relieve the money pressures. Her first-person narrative allows readers to know her intimately, but many of her thoughts and actions are closer to those of a 12-year-old than a girl of 15. The story line, even with its episodes of life on the streets, evolves with a level of innocence that makes it more appropriate for younger readers. Irena's descriptions of people and scenery are filled with poetic phrases that evoke vivid images and enhance the reading experience.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 5–8—Iris Greenwold is a dreamer; it's how she escapes her miserable existence. Her mother researches soybeans for an uncaring employer and her wacky father lives far away and pays almost no attention to her. Erebus Middle School is awful, with classmates who torment her and teachers who don't understand why she doesn't pay attention. And then, for her 12th birthday, Iris receives an incredible gift: Bulfinch's Mythology. Reading about the exploits of the Greek gods is right up her alley, but she is puzzled when mysterious messages start popping up in the book's pages and downright startled to discover that the gods are all living nearby at the New Jersey shore and in the Philadelphia area. Moreover, they desperately need her help. As she meets such figures as Poseidon (who runs a seaside oyster shack), Apollo (owner of a cool jazz club), and Aphrodite (stylist extraordinaire), she's also treated to firsthand accounts of Greek myths. This engaging story of an unhappy girl whose dreaming pays off in wonderful ways will be a hit with adolescents dealing with those difficult middle school years. Give it to readers who gobble up Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series (Hyperion/Miramax) and other novels where teens interact with the Greek pantheon.—Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WI

Gr 6–8—After he's suspended from his middle school in suburban Philadelphia, Ethan is sent to live with his maternal grandparents in Washington, DC. He learns that he'll attend Parker Junior High—in a uniform from "ValuBuy." The boy feels suspended not only from his old school, but in time, as well. Every aspect of his life is changing radically. His parents have separated and his sister has started college in California. Life with his grandparents starkly contrasts with life in the suburbs. Not only is their city neighborhood a bit seedy, but Ethan is also the only white kid on the block and at school; there are no malls to hang out in and the only technology in his grandparents' home is a rotary phone. But during the fall, Ethan learns about the strength of his family and the turbulent times that helped shape them, begins to accept his parents' divorce, and figures out that assumptions about people can be way off base. In other words, he grows during his time away from Maple Heights. His first-person narration presents a different take on being an outsider. He's white and Jewish, middle class and suburban-raised in a challenged, gritty inner-city area. Details about the nation's capital appear (and more importantly, feel) accurate. Though message-driven with many convenient coincidences (saved by the suburbs—Ethan returns to his comfortable life and his grandparents' neighbors move to a DC suburb), this novel does provide a look at a not-often-seen side of life in Washington, DC. Unfortunately, because of its heavy-handedness, it is not likely to be embraced by the intended audience.—Maria B. Salvadore, formerly at Washington DC Public Library

Gr 7–10—Amy Nelson Barak, introduced in How to Ruin a Summer Vacation (Flux, 2006), is back. She's living in a Chicago high-rise with her Israeli-born father, a security consultant and workaholic, and a dog named Mutt, a gift from her summertime Israeli "non-boyfriend," Avi. Amy has been enjoying a new religious education and exploration of her heritage, which got a running start during her trip to Israel, but the list of annoyances potentially ruining her life is almost too much for her. Dad needs a date and a life, so she signs him up for a Jewish online dating service using his credit card without mentioning it. Her mom and stepdad are expecting a baby, which freaks Amy out. Avi is out of touch while doing basic training in the Israeli army. Perhaps the biggest insult is from Nathan, a geeky-looking but intriguing new guy who completely rubs her the wrong way, but she kisses him anyway. A retaliation kiss from him in the cafeteria is hard to explain when Avi shows up for a surprise visit. Readers picking up the book without prior knowledge can settle into Amy's brink-of-ruination life easily, and they will enjoy her take on the world. This is an undemanding read in which what's wrong can be made right by the last page—just the choice for teens who seek realistic YA fiction free from heavy issues but with appealingly ordinary drama and humor.—Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA

Gr 9 Up—Caleb and Maggie exhibit enough pain and anger to wreak havoc on their families and community, named, ironically, Paradise. Both missed their junior year of high school; Maggie, recovering from a car accident, and Caleb, jailed for hitting her while driving drunk. Now it's September and the beginning of their senior year. Each teen tries to slip back into old patterns that no longer fit. Classmates mock Maggie's awkward gait while anger and violence swirl around Caleb when he confronts his fellow students. Maggie's fury toward him turns her into a loner. And although Caleb spent a year in prison, he knows he will never be forgiven. Circumstances force them to work together and, under the benevolent eye of an elderly widow, they fall in love. Elkeles writes convincingly about family tensions, retreating from painful reality, and teens outgrowing their old skins. The plot has some twists and reversals that keep the story interesting, but doses of pop psychology are unnecessarily interjected. In keeping the story realistic, Elkeles doesn't tie up loose ends, but permits the characters to work through complicated emotions. Mild cursing and some sexual scenes make this book most suitable for high school readers.—Lillian Hecker, Town of Pelham Public Library, NY

Gr 8–10—Fourteen-year-old Matt, a survivor of family violence, has learned to withdraw, to make herself invisible to the Beasts of the world, and to run away from things she can't cope with. This notion is entirely counter to the philosophy of Sam and Jessica Fox, her latest foster parents, whose Quaker belief is to face the fire. Their caring and concern, both for Matt and for Rory, their other foster child, a severely disabled seven-year-old boy, begin to break down her resistance. As Matt is increasingly drawn into the family's life, she worries that Sam's peace activism puts him squarely in the path of a wave of violent vandalism in their community. Her own antiwar opinions about the Iraq conflict have led to trouble with a teacher, and she has drawn the attention of a school bully. The effect of this moving first-person story of a foster child slowly opening herself to family love is lessened by its heavy political message. The issues are interesting, the present-day Pennsylvania setting realistic, and the high school believable, but readers may find the picture of anti-pacifist violence (including a death at a demonstration in Washington) exaggerated.—Kathleen Isaacs, Towson University, MD

Gr 4–6—Through rhyming text, this picture book follows an African-American child's day as she celebrates with classmates at school, wins a chess match in the park, and attends her elementary-school graduation ceremony. The rambling verse advises the youngster to keep striving even when encountering dead ends or an unclear path and to embrace the journey no matter where it leads. The text is in the same vein as Dr. Seuss's Oh, the Places You'll Go (Random, 1990). Consisting of paintings combined with collage, Collier's art is reminiscent of his work in Hope Lynne Price's These Hands (Hyperion, 1999) and Nikki Grimes's Welcome, Precious (Scholastic, 2006), including the balloon motif from the latter. The faces have the artist's characteristic luminescence, but the backgrounds are more muted and don't have the intensity of the pictures in Nikki Giovanni's Rosa (Holt, 2005) or Doreen Rappaport's Martin's Big Words (Hyperion, 2001). With its motivational sentiments and colorful artwork, this book might make a great graduation gift. Consider it a limited purchase for libraries.—Elaine Lesh Morgan, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Gr 6–9—Before she was Helen of Troy and her face launched a thousand ships, she was Helen of Sparta, tomboyish teen and future queen, at least according to this novel. Not much was written about her in classical literature before she became embroiled with Paris and Menelaus, so this is Friesner's backstory. Helen, not interested in the typical princess duties and responsibilities, would rather learn the ways of a warrior with her brothers. She trains secretly, growing stronger and more accomplished than anyone expects. When her sister, Clytemnestra, goes to Mykenae for her marriage, Helen, longing to see the world, begs to accompany her and her brothers. She makes her first official royal visit and nearly gets trapped there by the scheming king. However, a beast devastating the countryside causes all of the warriors gathered in Mykenae to create a hunting party headed for Calydon, and Helen manages to include herself. There, she meets Atalanta, a fascinating female warrior and a role model. After killing the giant boar, Helen and her brothers, Castor and Polydeuces, head for home. They stop to visit the Oracle at Delphi, where their journey takes a new direction as they join Jason on his quest for the Golden Fleece. No prior knowledge of the Iliad and the Odyssey is required to appreciate this story. The plot flows well, and readers will find this Helen interesting, if somewhat predictable. Fans of mythology or historical fiction will enjoy this lively tale.—Cheri Dobbs, Detroit Country Day Middle School, Beverly Hills, MI

Gr 8–10—An entertaining, low-key story for romance readers and dog lovers. The novel follows the trials and tribulations of Natalie, 16, who sticks to the straight and narrow, rejecting the raunchy antics of her classmates, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and working long hours in her mother's veterinary clinic. Despite the teen's good behavior, she struggles with her mom's lack of trust and overprotective ways. When handsome Carver, the son of a family friend, comes to stay for the summer, Natalie falls hard for him, and their romance spurs her to challenge her mother's rules. Each chapter begins with a quote from Natalie's dog-trainer father, who left her mother for another woman. Natalie's affinity for dogs, and her propensity for comparing people to an appropriate breed, is amusing, but sometimes a stretch. Some readers will identify with Natalie's idealism, while others will find her too much of a Goody Two-shoes. Overall, though, this is a light, enjoyable read for those who like quirky romances.—Miranda Doyle, San Francisco Public Library

Gr 6–8—In this third installment, Raisin is still dating monosyllabic CJ. The kissing is nice, but having a conversation—nearly impossible. The seventh grader goes home to see her dad for Christmas vacation. Berkeley has changed quite a bit since her parents divorced and her mom moved the family to Philadelphia. Raisin is upset to find that her two BFFs now have a third BFF, who Raisin thinks has replaced her in their affections. There are many things crammed into this light, funny, run-of-the-mill novel that's written in the style of text messaging and blogging. Raisin finds a new romance (as does her father), deals with being jealous, has tantrums, and pays altogether too much attention to what Paris Hilton has to say about makeup and self-esteem. While she presents herself as a hip, knowledgeable teen, she is really pretty clueless. And although she frequently looks foolish and is melodramatic, Raisin is like most teenagers today. That uneasy tipping point between preadolescence and adolescence is portrayed well.—B. Allison Gray, John Jermain Library, Sag Harbor, NY

Gr 6–8—In the Bible, the infamous Salome asks for the head of John the Baptist after her provocative dance at the birthday of her stepfather, Herod. This absorbing novel re-creates the events surrounding her coldhearted request. Jewish by birth but raised in Rome, Salome wants nothing more than to become a priestess at the temple of Diana. Instead, her manipulative mother, who divorced Salome's father and married Herod Antipas, the ruler of the Jewish people in Tiberias, takes her to her new home far from Rome. At this point in her life, Salome is beginning to notice the intricacies of political life, the selfishness of the ruling classes, and the potential that each person has for good and evil. Eventually, she is caught between the machinations of her insecure, self-centered mother and the desires of her lecherous stepfather, and in a moment of panic, she does what her mother desires—she asks for John's head. Gormley effectively captures the confusion of an unhappy adolescent and the shallowness of her narcissistic mother in a well-plotted tale that keeps readers engaged. Though most of the book is about Salome, a few chapters are told from the point of view of John. These chapters, as well as some of the events in the story, convey clearly the message that John, and later Yeshua, are preaching, a message unsettling to those in power. Many of the questions that the book raises are still being grappled with today, and as a result, the novel will appeal to thoughtful readers as well as to those who simply want to lose themselves in a good story.—Barbara Scotto, Michael Driscoll School, Brookline, MA

Gr 5–8—This novel has much to recommend it. Troy White is a typical 12-year-old in many ways, dividing his time between school, organized sports, and friends. He has one special talent, though: when he watches football on television, he subconsciously computes team statistics, players, and other variables, and he can call the plays before they happen. What could be a nice parlor trick takes on new significance when his single mother gets a job with the Atlanta Falcons' public relations department. Suddenly, Troy is in a position to help the struggling team win, if he can only make the grownups around him listen. It's an uphill battle at first, but eventually running back Seth Halloway witnesses Troy's uncanny ability and puts his own job on the line to help convince the coach and the team's owner. Drawing heavily on his own eight years as a linebacker for the Falcons, Green gives armchair quarterbacks a rare and realistic glimpse at the pain, sweat, and politicking of professional football. He includes enough cameo appearances from real players (Mike Vick, John Abraham, and Demarrio Williams, among others) to make fact and fiction meld seamlessly. Fictional characters are fairly two-dimensional, especially the scheming assistant coach who wants nothing more than to see the team lose so that he can step in as head coach. Nonetheless, the fast action and plot twists will keep fans of the game glued to the story. A first purchase for libraries looking to bolster their sports fiction.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 7 Up—Since his father's death two years earlier, Eddie has been a virtual orphan, throwing himself into school and housework and trying desperately to cover up his mother's drug addiction and alcoholism. When his mom is finally forced into rehab, Eddie is whisked off to Boston to live with his "hippy-dippy" Aunt Lily, her husband, and their son. He joins his cousin, Alex, at his experimental, inner-city high school, The Center for Urban Education, or CUE. The institution is designed like a business and students are expected to dress and act accordingly. In sharp contrast to Eddie's sprawling, mostly white, suburban high school, academic achievement is valued and expected of the mostly black students. Alex is gregarious and fun-loving—and a chronic underachiever. Eddie is introverted, hardworking, and has no experience being a teenager. Over the course of a few months, the boys begin to open up and, to their surprise, become close friends. Just as Eddie is beginning to feel comfortable in his new life, he learns that his mother is ready to leave rehab and start over with him. Halpin does an excellent job of baring Eddie's emotions and his inner conflict about his mom. The ebb and flow of the relationship between the two boys is also well done and believable. Many teens will identify with Eddie, crying and cheering for him by turns. This well-crafted story is on par with Margaret Peterson Haddix's Don't You Dare Read This, Mrs. Dunphrey (S & S, 1996).—Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School Library, CA

Gr 5–7—It will require a patient reader to get to the action in this story set around the 1935 hurricane that devastated Islamorado and Matecumbe Key in Florida. Harlow spends more than half of the book introducing the characters and setting. Jake, 13, becomes friends with Mara, a new girl in town. His mom hires her as a babysitter for her daughter, Star, leaving him more time to work for Sharkey, a gruff old fishing guide. Life proceeds at a sleepy pace until word comes of a hurricane headed for the Keys. At the same time, Star comes down with encephalitis and the family is frantic. Without sophisticated weather tracking, residents don't know the size of the storm or its exact location. Many choose to leave their homes only when storm surge starts pouring in their doors, and by then it is too late. The characters are well drawn. The palpable sense of unease about the approaching storm, the terror of its strength, and the sense of loss and disorientation are described in detail, and are reminiscent of stories from the recent Gulf hurricanes. However, neither the action nor the foreboding happens quickly enough for readers who are looking for an exciting story.—Nancy P. Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC

Gr 7 Up—Poker prodigy Denn Doyle of Stone Cold (S & S, 1998) is back. The novel opens as the now 17-year-old, who has moved to Las Vegas with money he won from poker kingpin Artie Kingston, loses his last chunk of cash in a fixed game. It turns out that Artie is behind this, and has used Denn's new girlfriend, Cattie, to deal the fatal card. Denn must raise $10,000 to enter a million-dollar winner-takes-all tournament to save his pride. Hautman tells the story through Denn, Cattie, and a jaded 22-year-old gambler. Jimbo, who talks like a 1940s gumshoe, is the voice of reason, and the most interesting of the three. Only he speaks in the first person, which dilutes the other two narratives. Denn's voice is distant at best, and he never truly earns readers' empathy. Cattie is so unilaterally bitter and unfeeling that her mutiny from the dark side seems premature. The noir mood is clever, but it also keeps readers at arm's length. The descriptions of poker play are impressive, but guaranteed to confuse the uninitiated, despite the glossary. The dialogue is snappy and the plot, especially the ending, unfolds expertly and without cliché. All in all, All-in may only be of interest to older poker enthusiasts.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 5–9—In this sequel to The Floating Island (Tor, 2006), Ven Polypheme undertakes his first assignment for King Vandemere of Serendair. Ven and his friends are sent into the Gated City to uncover the meaning of a strange glowing stone. The former penal colony is ruled by the cruel Queen of Thieves, and the children find both wonders and danger behind the gates. Haydon uses snippets of Ven's diary entries, fast-paced action, and plenty of humorous touches to keep readers engaged. While Ven is clearly the leader, all of the youngsters use their unique skills and abilities to move the story forward to a conclusion that, not surprisingly, promises more adventures to come. Chan's occasional illustrations add visual appeal. The cover makes the book look like a dragon fantasy. It is not, but dragons have been promised to feature prominently in future installments. Fans of the first book will be excited by this one (complete with a preview chapter from Book 3, The Dragon's Lair, and a "Reader's Guide"). While the story will make more sense to those who have read The Floating Island, Haydon does a wonderful job of weaving the critical details from that story into this one. This first-rate novel will have wide appeal.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 4–6—These adaptations are sure to be a hit with readers. Divided into four sections-"Death," "Disease and Madness," "The Power of the Mind," and "Evil"—the selections by master storytellers such as Poe, de Maupassant, Dickens, and Stevenson entertain with a simplicity that belies the horror within. Abridged in length to three or four pages, the stories are illustrated with Rodríguez's stylized cartoons that convey appropriate amounts of darkness and humor. A solid choice that will entice reluctant readers and make for entertaining read-alouds.—Kathleen A. Nester, Downingtown High Ninth Grade Center, PA

Gr 4–7—After moving to a new neighborhood, Bree Mulaney, 11, is lonely. Resorting to her old imaginary friend, Joey, causes disapproval from her parents and disdain from her older brother, Reid. When she meets 13-year-old Cassie, who smokes (she says), wears makeup, and has a tattoo, Bree is intrigued. Cassie is visiting her grandmother for the summer, although she tells Bree that she has gotten kicked out of her boarding school. The plot remains steady with enough happening to sustain interest as Bree eventually gives Joey up and Cassie's secrets become known. Hickey creates a true-to-life situation. However, while Bree clearly admits that having an imaginary friend is not normal for someone her age-that's she's just lonely and desperate for a friend—most readers will find her reliance on Joey improbable. Because of that, the book is likely to have limited appeal.—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 4–6—Erin is finishing fifth grade and has the long days of summer to fill with no escape from her older sister, who knits, plays basketball, and doesn't shave her legs. Her ex-best friend, Kayla, teases her about her sister, and Erin worries about her popularity status once school starts because she is related to Monica. Although Erin's voice is authentic and the slow pacing may be intentional, her fears get tedious and the details of her revenge against Kayla seem contrived and uninteresting. Still, this first-time novelist writes beautifully, particularly when Erin fantasizes that she is Frodo from The Lord of the Rings and later when she realizes that she doesn't have to pretend anymore. Her growth is realistically depicted. At the happy conclusion, she has learned to accept Monica and has developed a self-reliance that will help her navigate through middle school. The title is provocative, the cover appealing, and the text may resonate with readers making the same transition from elementary school to middle school.—Debbie S. Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI

Gr 6–9—Sawako, a friendless Japanese teenager, believes that her father mistreated her dead mother because Sawako's scores on practice high school entrance exams were never high enough. She receives a message from a student at another school, asking her to collaborate on writing a story by email, about a schoolgirl who is stalked. Sawako eagerly accepts and recruits two other girls to participate, after she gets their addresses from a cell phone she finds. Mai and Mayumi have their own problems. Mayumi is overshadowed by her best friend's athletic success, and Mai has too much money and time on her hands. When Sawako's entries take a different tone and suddenly stop, Mai and Mayumi wrestle with the decision to breach their anonymity and speak in the real world. Chain Mail explores parental and peer pressure, fascination with online personas, and other topics to which teens can relate. Told in a distinctively Japanese style, this novel should be popular with the manga-obsessed.—Sarah Krygier, Solano County Library, Fairfield, CA

Gr 9 Up—Penelope Yeager, 16, has arranged to graduate and head to college a year early to get away from her flirty, immature mother, Viv. When she was six, Lopi's two-year-old brother was run over by her parents' car, and she blames herself. After her parents' divorce, the minimal counseling she received barely helped. Lopi still struggles with her feelings about his death, but she is also preoccupied with finding true love and having sex for the first time. After three unsuccessful romantic encounters, including being put off by her mother's prospective fiancé, she realizes that her friend Toad is "the one." When Viv survives a serious auto accident, she finally talks with Lopi about what happened to her brother and agrees to provide more therapy. Lopi is a realistic character with usual teen worries and the additional burden of overwhelming guilt. As she works through the process of finishing high school, getting accepted into college, making friends, resolving issues with her mother, and finding a boyfriend in Toad, she becomes more self-assured. She begins to overcome her sorrow and appears to be heading toward a happier future. When she and Toad suddenly acknowledge their serious feelings for one another, they quickly hop into bed, but use a condom. Despite the predictable romance, this fast-paced, well-written story will appeal to those who enjoyed Kristen Tracy's Lost It (S & S, 2007) and Marlene Perez's Unexpected Development (Roaring Brook, 2004).—Diane P. Tuccillo, formerly at City of Mesa Library, AZ

Gr 7 Up—Cadel Piggott was hacking into computer systems by the time he was seven and causing all sorts of trouble by the time he fast-tracked through high school. At age 14, he is encouraged by his longtime "psychiatrist" to enroll in the Axis Institute. There, the classes include Misinformation, Disguise, Basic Lying, Embezzlement, and Explosives. Cadel settles into his first semester of studies, but soon begins to suspect that something is very wrong here. Through Partner Post, his online matching service experiment, he receives a cryptic warning from one of his subscribers, and he begins to make plans to investigate his teachers. A trail of hacked information takes him to places he doesn't want to go. A flowing and coherent style leads readers into the thriller that Evil Genius becomes. Although background information dominates the beginning of the book, the plot quickly picks up its dark and dangerous pace as Cadel moves through his fear and realization of what is happening around him. As an alternative thriller that shows the good side of evil, Jinks sets up a compelling world of lies, deceit, and betrayal that will have lovers of mystery or computer-based investigation on the edge as they devour this page-turner. A sequel is planned.—Dylan Thomarie, Johnstown High School, NY

Gr 9 Up—Mature for his 16 years, Thomas Ormsby talks his way out of working at the local apothecary and signs up as personal assistant to Henry Morton Stanley on his next African expedition. With dreams as big as the continent, Tom is soon thrust into the middle of war and slavery as Stanley's team works its way from Zanzibar to the deep jungles of the Congo's Ituri Forest. The two-year trek causes the boy to question his hero's motives and whether he has indeed signed up for a rescue mission or one of fame and exploitation. This novel is a bit of enigma. There is no doubt that Karr is a great writer, given the book's quality of craftsmanship—this is a truly informative and eye-opening read. Yet, one struggles to identify with the protagonist. An obvious challenge is his stodgy and somewhat antiquated voice; however, readers may move past this awkwardness and assume that Tom has adopted the bravado and speech of his favorite serial character from Jack Harkaway among the Sea Fiends of the Moluccas. Overall, the author's historical research is quite impressive, but Tom seems almost too good to be true, as if, dropped anywhere in the world, he could easily take on any challenge without fear or surprise at the unique cultures and terrains.—Kimberly Monaghan, formerly at Vernon Area Public Library, IL

Gr 6–8—Two 12-year-old best friends lie about their age and get online boyfriends. Leah goes to meet hers and disappears. Distraught, Maxine is encouraged by her therapist to keep a diary. She calls it Jo and writes about her family, her town, and her life after Leah. Although fictionalized, the story confronts the realities of the situation. Maxine deals with guilt; why didn't she tell anyone Leah had an online boyfriend? She works through her anger; why is everyone happy at the holidays? Don't they know Leah is gone? She finds solace in helping with the investigation. When her online boyfriend emails her wanting to meet, the police suspect that he is Leah's killer and Maxine agrees to a dangerous plan that puts her face-to-face with the predator. The novel has a strong message but it doesn't interfere with the storytelling. Maxine is well developed with the unsure voice of a preteen. Though the book stays mainly in her head, the secondary characters (especially Leah and her parents) are equally compelling. In the beginning, the writing is forced but quickly eases into the diary format. It could simply be Maxine herself warming to the idea of being able to express herself openly and honestly. The last pages offer online safety tips for children and their parents. Though the book goes on a little too long, Leah's and Maxine's experiences mirror those of many girls caught up in their own online "love."—Sadie Mattox, DeKalb County Public Library, Decatur, GA

Gr 7–9—A dark charm has held the village of Yole for generations, keeping the folks poor and oppressed by Mally Balloo, the master who owns the town and delights in home-pitchings that evict the villagers. When readers first meet Nacky, he is a thief, a cheat, and a swindler, headed yet again to the penitents' tower. His punishment takes him aboard a ship that wrecks, leaving him with a wooden leg and a pet pig. He returns to Yole and, along with the orphan and alleged fire setter Teedie Flinn, sees an amazing sight in the lake: the wreckage of a teakwood clipper ship. The coast is a half-day's journey away. Could this be one of the dry-land boats in the children's songs—songs that predict the breaking of the dark charm? Nacky is sure that reconstructing the exactly 40,000 pieces of wood into a ship and hauling it to the sea will break the curse. But, for this to happen, all the townspeople must work together and agree to follow the lead of two ne'er-do-wells, Nacky and Teedie, and that seems highly unlikely. The theme of redemption winds through the story. The setting has a medieval feel, with hints of Ireland. This is a very long, complicated novel with lots of characters, subplots, and details. There is much invented vocabulary as well as technical terms and information related to shipbuilding. This quirky tale will appeal mainly to readers who like a challenge.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 7–10—Ted O'Connor, 15, grew up working in his parents' pet store until they died in a car crash and he was sent into foster care. He shares an attic bedroom with Astin, who rides a Harley and is alternately paternal and threatening. The other foster kid, C.W., has his own room because Mr. Rafter "[doesn't] like to mix white and black." Ted isolates himself from social situations, preferring to communicate with animals. These creatures—from stray dogs to caged lions—talk back. The rub is, as Ted begins to trust human relationships, his gift with animals fades. Koertge writes brilliant dialogue; the conversations between Ted and the animals are as nuanced, natural, and believable as those between humans. The characterizations are subtle and swift, especially Wanda, a senior whose parents win the lottery and virtually abandon her. She's unique from her first words on the page. Ted's slow transformation from introverted destitution to tentative but authentic affirmation is well and economically handled. The novel's initially somber mood lifts, deftly and gradually, as Ted grows surer of his place in humanity. His romantic friendship with warm, intelligent Wanda is beautifully realized and revelatory; having chosen one another, they are no longer strays. This is a great choice for reluctant readers, and for animal lovers. Not a word is wasted, and this tight, smoothly plotted, perfectly pitched novel is among the author's best work.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—These novels chronicle the beginning of a new school year at Bluford High. In Safety, Ben, a new sophomore, is the victim of domestic abuse and must decide whom to trust before either he or his mother is badly hurt. The Fallen picks up the story of Martin (introduced in Brothers in Arms [Townsend, 2004]) as he transfers to the school to start his sophomore year. He risks everything to break the cycle of gang violence that killed his brother and create a new life for himself, despite a series of misunderstandings that increases the tension. Shattered is the fifth story featuring Darcy, now entering her junior year. Her ex-boyfriend has returned to town and she wants to get back together with him, but she is ashamed to tell him that she was assaulted by a date after he left, and he doesn't want to admit that he started a new relationship. Pressure mounts and in order to find peace, Darcy must confront the secrets of the summer and quit lying to everyone, including herself. Quick pacing, modern settings, and contemporary slang (but no objectionable language) are sure to captivate reluctant readers. Despite violent subplots, each novel has a hopeful ending that will ring true with readers.—H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL

Gr 9 Up—The stage is calling to Demi and Sadye (aka Douglas and Sarah), so they're off to Wildewood Academy's summer theater program for eight weeks of showtimes, show tunes, and show-offs. The teens enjoy the whirlwind pace of the theater, but their close friendship begins to fray; Demi gains fame and gets a boyfriend, while Sadye clashes with her roommates and fights with the directors. When the pair are caught drinking on the campus rooftop, Sadye takes the fall so that Demi can remain at Wildewood. Strong secondary characters round out the plot; the gay relationships are mostly chaste, featuring kissing but avoiding more physical encounters. Teens will identify strongly with both the heartbreak and the humor in this authentic portrayal of friendships maturing and decaying. Those who don't follow musical theater might not recognize the show titles or tunes, but the campy spirit of the book shines through, regardless. An effervescent read, this is an excellent purchase.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Aislinn knows that fairies are real and that they aren't the small, cute, winged beings that most people imagine. She has inherited the gift of Sight from her mother's family, allowing her to see them. She lives by rules that have kept her safe from their notice. All of that changes when Keenan, the Summer King, chooses her as his queen, involving Aislinn in a 900-year power struggle between him and his mother, the Winter Queen. If Aislinn refuses him, summer will cease to exist, killing both mortals and fairies alike. If she accepts, she loses her humanity and ties to the mortal world—as if life as a teenager isn't hard enough when you're "normal." This story explores the themes of love, commitment, and what it really means to give of oneself for the greater good to save everyone else. It is the unusual combination of past legends and modern-day life that gives a unique twist to this "fairy" tale.—June H. Keuhn, Corning East High School, NY

Gr 6–8—In the midst of a short war in a country on the Arab peninsula, 12-year-old Adam, an Australian expatriate who does not want to return home, and Walid, a camel rider from Bangladesh, manage to elude Walid's former employers and survive in the harsh desert, although they lack a common language or culture. Adam's mother has gone home to Australia, and the boy is to follow the next day when his dad, a pilot, arrives from a trip. When the bombs begin to fall, he runs away from neighbors who attempt to take him across the border to safety. Walid, who had been sold by his mother, who hoped for something better for him, was left tied up in the mountains after accidentally causing the death of a camel. The alternating first-person voices, set off typographically, reveal the depth of the boys' cultural differences and their growing ability to communicate, understand, and respect one another. The harshness of the desert is clear, as is Adam's ignorance and unpreparedness. Readers who may first identify with the fun-loving Adam will come to appreciate Walid's skills and determination, and may learn something about Muslim ways in the process. The suspense is sustained and the wildly improbable happy ending is very satisfying. Some readers may not appreciate the number of times "acting like a girl" is a derogatory phrase, but this is solid survival adventure.—Kathleen Isaacs, Towson University, MD

Gr 9 Up—Jonathan Parish, 17, is "out-and-proud." He spends his time gossiping, shopping, partying, and watching Golden Girls reruns with his best girlfriends. Then he drunkenly deflowers a young woman at a party. His crisis of conscience worsens when rich, gorgeous Laura Schulberg makes him an offer he can't refuse: pretend to be her boyfriend in exchange for a trip to London to see Kylie Minogue perform. In the process, he alienates two of his best friends and loathes himself for returning to the closet. Jonathan is fabulously self-aware, and his running commentary about his emotional state, dance music, fashion, and Target shoppers is canny and hilarious. His voice is campy without descending into stereotype, and his honesty and insecurities deepen this portrait. His energetic narration carries the plot briskly along, and the mood is giddy but thoughtful. The characters' cultural references are so timely and their language so believably littered with f-bombs that the author might be in high school himself. Medina's ear for dialogue, colloquialisms, and accents is flawless, and the sharpest interchanges involve Jonathan; his mouthy, bisexual black/Asian girlfriend; and his gay Latino coworker. Unfortunately, his two straight female friends fall a little flat, as if they're only present to set up conflict. The inciting incident—Lauren wants Jonathan and only Jonathan as her beard—seems forced, too, even as her motive is ultimately revealed. On the whole, though, this is a well-written, thought-provoking, and welcome twist on the coming-out story.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—Two brothers have a special relationship. Max was dying of cancer when Josh was born and it was the infant's stem cells that saved his life. It was no coincidence that Josh's cells were a perfect match since he was a "designer baby," conceived specifically to cure Max. Now, even with Max away at college, they remain close, sharing nightly adventures in an online role-playing game. Josh's world is rocked to its core when Max is arrested for the vicious murder of a local girl, and some people question whether Josh bears some responsibility for the crime since Max would have died without him. The media storm intensifies when Rachel, the dead girl's sister, disappears. In a credulity-straining twist, Josh discovers her hiding in their garden shed but doesn't tell anyone. Though the story is often exciting, it is also unbelievable in several places. How could Josh—and his two PhD-holding parents—have missed any indication of Max's evil side? Both boys were tested repeatedly over the years and yet there was never any indication of a psychological problem. The police confiscate all of the family's computers but their forensic specialists can't find the evidence that Josh locates in five minutes on a borrowed laptop. Readers looking for a novel about a sibling's criminality would be better served by Patricia McCormick's My Brother's Keeper (Hyperion, 2005), and those looking for stories about tissue donation and sibling illness could try Jody Picoult's My Sister's Keeper (Atria, 2004).—Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School Library, CA

Gr 5–9—Filled with the tension, animosity, and determination that Annie Sullivan felt upon meeting Helen Keller, this novel portrays that most important month in their relationship, March 1887. The story is told through Annie's voice, and it begins as she travels by train from Boston to Tuscumbia, AL. The child she has been hired to teach is both deaf and blind, and there is only one previous case study that suggests that the six-year-old will ever be able to learn. As the story unfolds, readers see that strong-willed Annie is just the person to take on this formidable task. Her anger at Helen for her contrary ways is matched only by her disgust at the Kellers for allowing the girl to control everyone in the family and have her way. The incident during which Helen breaks a tooth in Annie's mouth with a well-placed punch is vividly recounted, and readers have great sympathy for the teacher's desire to get even. In spite of her own temper, the fierce love Annie feels, almost immediately, for Helen, is evident throughout. Although the flashbacks describing Annie's life before she arrived at the Kellers' interferes at times with the story's momentum, this excellent novel is compelling reading even for those familiar with the Keller/Sullivan experience. Children encountering them for the first time will feel an overwhelming sense of wonder and delight when Annie helps Helen make a communication breakthrough.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 9 Up—The glam world of Patch Flood, familiar to readers of "The Insiders" novels (Bloomsbury), lights his younger sister's life with the same privileged and wealthy glow. Flan wants to forge something of a separate identity and emerges from private school to try her luck at a New York City public school for her freshman year. She makes new friends there and is invited to a party. This typical teen-novel scenario is knocked askew by Flan's high-society house crashers: Sara Beth, a former child TV star made unbalanced by paranoia and paparazzi; Liesel, a socialite who makes or breaks new NYC clubs; and Philippa, the star-crossed lover of one of Patch's insider friends. Within a few days of the start of school, all three are staying with Flan, whose parents and older siblings are off doing their own things, leaving the 14-year-old to figure out how to keep her two worlds from colliding. She can't let her new gang find out that she's already part of the über-cool kings and queens of the city; her celebrity friends sigh wistfully for her new "normal" pursuits. While some of the seemingly requisite posing, drinking, and clubbing occur, Flan is actually a kind girl caught in a dilemma she manages to solve with sincerity. Tamer than most of its counterparts in the genre, and with some semblance of a moral compass, Inside Girl should be popular for a light summer read.—Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA

Gr 6–9—Cass lives a glamorous Las Vegas life and seems to have everything going for her. Her best friend is the most popular girl in school, her boyfriend is a cute über-jock, and she gets along with her single dad. All of this changes when she catches her best friend and boyfriend kissing. Despite her anger and embarrassment, she makes a new circle of friends, learns to play poker, and spends time with the first boy to cross her path. Her new friends teach her to stand up for herself and they conspire to catch the ex-boyfriend cheating at cards. Characters aren't complex, but the book doesn't fall into the trap of Nice Girls vs. Mean Girls. Cass graciously accepts her apologetic friend back, and readers will respect her decision not to reunite with the boyfriend. Cass's narration sounds like a real teen without getting bogged down in trendy slang. Readers knowledgeable about poker will enjoy the detailed descriptions; others may skim them. Physical descriptions are also very detailed, complete with brand names. This light fluff is for young teens who would rather put on lip gloss than read.—Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

Gr 6–9—It's 1945, and Bobby and his suburban Boston friends spend their free time traveling to other schools to compete in basketball games. Their junior high does not have a gym or a coach, so when it is announced that independent teams will be included in the state JV tournament, this group of six friends who call themselves the Owls feels a new sense of purpose. Outside circumstances threaten their single-mindedness, however. As Bobby sees a romance blossoming between his childhood friend Joanie and fellow Owl Nick, he is torn between his own feelings for the girl and loyalty to his pal. And when some members of the Owls witness a man threatening their pretty young teacher, they are drawn into a mystery that could endanger all of them. This first young-adult novel from an Edgar Award-winning author brings the same mix of fully developed characters and suspenseful prose that readers have come to expect in his adult works. While Parker's nostalgic references to various radio and movie personalities of the post-World War II era may not be fully appreciated by the target audience, students will identify with the emotional turmoil that characterizes Bobby's adolescence. This thought-provoking mystery will be a solid addition to middle school collections.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 7 Up—Six genetically altered bird-kids continue their mission to prevent the evil scientists who created them from making good on their diabolical plan to eradicate half of the world's population. Just as the flock lets down its guard, the wolflike Erasers resurface to capture the younger members, while Max takes Fang on a detour through Arizona to ask Dr. Martinez, a vet, to surgically remove the tracking chip in her arm. Former nemesis Ari returns, this time as a friend, but Fang's distrust splits the flock along gender lines as he, Iggy, and Gazzy hang out in Venice Beach, while Max, Ari, Nudge, and Angel fly to Europe to infiltrate Itex headquarters. Inside, Max learns vital information about her past, including who her parents are and who controls the "Voice" in her head. A caricatured evil scientist, Dr. Borcht, informs the recombinant-DNA experiments that their expiration date is up and Max is forced into a fight-to-the-death with Omega, the robot boy. Survival options run out as Fang attempts to mobilize armies of kids to attack all worldwide Itex labs by posting appeals on his fast-growing blog. Popular-culture references abound and readers will be drawn to Max's razor-sharp tongue, especially honed in this volume, making her an edgier heroine than in the last. The dialogue-driven story ends with minor casualties and hints at the possibility of further adventures.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 4–6—A picture book that is stronger in concept than in execution. In a format similar to her Crossing the Delaware (S & S, 1998), Peacock describes the immigration experience to children. The first fictional narrative presented (in red type) is that of a modern child visiting Ellis Island, intertwining facts she has gathered about her family at the museum. The second narrative thread is delivered through letters written in cursive handwriting. They are from a fictional Armenian girl, Sera, who in 1910 makes the long journey to join her father in New York. She describes to her mother back home the Statue of Liberty, being in the Baggage Hall among swarms of people speaking different languages, and the pervasive feelings of uncertainty and fear. The third element is the inclusion of numerous quotes from actual immigrants, an interpreter, a surgeon, and other officials. Overall, the story is a powerful one, but the whole is more likely to confuse than to inform young readers. The book's approach is sketchily explained in the author's note and not sufficiently introduced in the main text, which is divided into separate boxes, each of which appears in a different color and font. Krudop's gouache paintings are evocative and expressive, and archival photographs are sprinkled throughout. There may be some use for this offering in a classroom with some guided reading, but youngsters who come to it on their own will most likely feel lost.—Luann Toth, School Library Journal

Gr 4–7—Porter has successfully woven elements of David Copperfield, Oliver Twist, and Huckleberry Finn into the character of Billy Creekmore, a 10-year-old "orphan" living in the Guardian Angels Home for Boys at the beginning of the 20th century. His story takes readers on an unsentimental journey to look at defenseless children who were forced to work on hardscrabble farms with little hope of improving their condition. Unexpectedly, Billy is rescued by a hitherto unknown uncle who takes him to live in a small cottage in a West Virginia coal town. There, the boy finds others his age and younger hard at work in the mines. A recruiter from the United Mine Workers secretly gets some workers to sign up, only to have strike breakers terrorize the community and kill his uncle. Billy's journeys and troubles continue when he runs off to join a traveling circus. Memorable characters, completely villainous or kind, fill the pages of this picaresque novel. Readers will empathize with the children's bitter deprivations and feel hopeful when Billy realizes he can make his life better. This is a well-told historical tale about an engaging and resourceful protagonist who learns to appreciate his many gifts as he makes his way in the world.—Lillian Hecker, Town of Pelham Public Library, NY

Gr 7–10—Giovanna and her twin brother, Dante, fit in at school, but are not part of the in crowd. Gi's criminal record for stealing dead frogs from her biology class doesn't help. So she knows she's lucky to have Jesse as a boyfriend, even if she thinks most of his friends are snobby and fake. When Dante decides to run against über-popular Wilson and represent the average student in the race for student body president, his sister expects Jesse to campaign for him. Instead, he decides to be Wilson's campaign manager. Giovanna decides to work for her brother herself and breaks up with her boyfriend. She soon regrets her decision, however, and she and her friends try a number of misguided ways to make her ex jealous while increasing Dante's chances of winning. Since Giovanna is both impulsive and unlucky, these attempts tend to end in slapstick comedy. This is a breezy look at high school life. Girls who read Meg Cabot and Cathy Hopkins will enjoy this amusing, if not memorable, chick-lit story.—Stephanie L. Petruso, Anne Arundel County Public Library, Odenton, MD

Gr 7 Up—This sequel to Clovermead (S & S, 2004) is a complex novel full of interesting characters and situations, but it does not stand completely on its own. Readers can follow the basic story, but they will feel like they've missed something important in the discussions of previous events. Thirteen-year-old Clovermead's life has changed greatly over the past few months. No longer simply the daughter of innkeeper Waxmelt Wickward, she has learned that she is really Demoiselle Cerelune Cindertallow, daughter of Chandlefort's sovereign. In adjusting to her new life, she must learn how to be a lady and how to interact with her mother, who seems cold and heartless in her quest to keep Chandlefort safe. When Lady Cindertallow is injured by Mallow Kite, a long-dead, reanimated enemy, Clovermead travels with her friend and fellow Yellowjacket trainee, Sorrel, and her cousin, Lady Saraband, to find a cure. Complicating matters is the human and bear army of Lord Ursus, amassing outside of Chandlefort waiting to attack. Jealousy over a developing romance between Sorrel and Saraband leads Clovermead to strike a deal with Mallow Kite, an exchange of part of her heart for safe passage through a battle. Clovermead's jealousy strikes the right adolescent note as does her pity for Mallow Kite's unrequited love for her mother and anger over the spiritual enslavement of the bears. The bears, especially Brookwade—who refers to Sorrel as a "little snack"—are personalities unto themselves. This one is a must-purchase for fans of the first book.—Lisa Prolman, Greenfield Public Library, MA

Gr 6–8—This thoughtful coming-of-age novel focuses on an overweight seventh grader who compensates for her lack of self-confidence with an abundance of ambition and heart. Maggie Bean has gained more than 30 pounds in the past year—a reaction to the stress caused by her father being laid off—and she is ready to drop those pounds. She attends the Pound Patrollers meetings at her parents' insistence, but her key motivation is her yearning to be a member of the Water Wings, an ultra-exclusive synchronized swim team at her school. Mastering the complicated routines is not what Maggie is stressed about, but rather looking good in the silver two-piece that serves as the team uniform. While her weight issue is crucial to the story, it is not its sole focus. Instead, the author zeroes in on Maggie's journey of self-discovery and her struggle to find her place in the world. Losing weight and seeing what her body can do when pushed is just the self-esteem booster she needs. Maggie realizes that she can do whatever she wants when she puts her mind to it and that she determines how others see her. This empowering novel is perfect for girls trying to overcome any obstacle, weight-related or not.—Robyn Zaneski, New York Public Library

Gr 8 Up—Chris is in love with Kelly Ann. Kelly Ann is in love with G. G is in love with anything in a skirt. Will Kelly Ann make the right choice or will her obsession with the boy she can't have lead her astray? Equally at the forefront of her thoughts are her acne, flat chest, and non-blond hair. Taking a backseat are her unmarried sister's pregnancy, her mother's midlife crisis and affair, the subsequent deterioration of her parents' marriage, and her father's alcohol-induced solace. Kelly Ann weighs emotional family drama in terms of "What will G think?" demonstrating a level of delusion that only a teen can get away with. Thankfully, good friends are on hand to be the voices of reason, even if Kelly Ann's not listening. All of the commotion in this 15-year-old's life is recorded in diary entries told over the course of one eventful year. Rettig combines quirky humor, comical British slang, witty observations, and endearing self-deprecation to create a Bridget Jones for the teenage crowd. Teens will shake their heads over how much of a total sucker Kelly Ann can be and how blind she is, not only to the boy who truly cares for her, but also to the events unfolding around her. The story line and characters are familiar, and readers will easily relate to the daily struggles and embarrassments of teen life. Casual infusions of partying, drinking, and sex (including a hearty laugh at the abstinence assembly speaker) make this book realistic. Louise Rennison's Georgia Nicholson casts a large shadow, but Kelly Ann can shine on her own.—Erin Schirota, Bronxville Public Library, NY

Gr 3–6—Lyle, Marilla, and Dave decide to form the Qwikpick Adventure Society, which is named after the convenience store where Lyle's parents work and the kids hang out. On Christmas Day, at loose ends, they decide to visit the mysterious poop fountain at the wastewater treatment plant. Lyle explains that their escapade was recorded for "future people to read so they will know what the poop fountain was like and also what it was like to go see it and smell it." The handwritten pages and taped-in pictures give the book a messy, realistic quality. Lyle's voice is young, simple, and truthful. The descriptions are not for the weak stomached, and one has to really appreciate toilet humor to enjoy this title.—Jessica Lamarre, Medford Public Library, MA

Gr 7 Up—At exclusive Orion Academy in Malibu, CA, the children of Hollywood's glitterati vie for choice parts in the spring musical. But in the town's social echelon, a phone call from a generous and influential parent can count for more than another student's stellar audition. The result is a cast swollen with four Dorothys, two Glindas, and two Scarecrows sharing stage time in a unique production of The Wizard of Oz. Then, in the days leading up to opening night, Dorothys begin dropping out of the play due to life-threatening allergic reactions, scandalous photos, suspected cheating, and a suspicious stairwell accident. Is the play cursed, or is someone sabotaging the Dorothys in order to maximize her own time in the spotlight? "Snarkastic" narrator and Scarecrow #2 Bryan Stark, a self-described supporting character, chronicles show week with droll observations on his classmates' furious ambitions. Bryan identifies himself as gay but closeted early in the novel, and many teens will appreciate his lighthearted approach to his sexuality. Swift pacing and tightly layered subplots keep pages turning through this refreshing take on some familiar high school dramas. This sequel-ready winner is sure to please both drama devotees and fans of Cecily von Ziegesar's "Gossip Girl" and Zoey Dean's "A-List" series (both Little, Brown) alike.—Amy Pickett, Ridley High School, Folsom, PA

Gr 5–8—Maggie, the 13-year-old daughter of an American diplomat, is living in Cairo with her parents when she begins to suspect that the cats of the city are trying to send her a message. With the guidance of Oum, a wise Muslim woman, she determines that the cat goddess Bastet needs her help to set right some terrible wrong occurring in Zagazig, the modern-day town built over the ancient site of Bastet's temple. Maggie enlists the help of Tareq, Oum's grandson, to discover that American businessman Bill Ramsey is in hiding as he plans to expand the cotton factory in Zagazig. Maggie uncovers the terrible conditions of the workers—poor Egyptian boys forcibly taken from their homes-and is able to stop Ramsey in a climax that sees thousands of cats appear at her summoning. Unfortunately, this book does not quite reach its potential. The idea of Bastet working through Maggie and the cats gets in the way of the real crux of the novel: child labor in less-developed countries. By mixing the two major themes—the fantasy element based upon Egyptian mythology and the focus on a serious issue—the impact of each one is diminished.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL

Gr 5–8—This entertaining and nuanced novel limns Holling Hoodhood's seventh-grade year in his Long Island community, beginning in the fall of 1967. His classmates, half of whom are Jewish, the other half Catholic, leave early on Wednesdays to attend religious training. As the sole Presbyterian, he finds himself stranded with his teacher, Mrs. Baker, whom he's sure has it in for him. She starts off creating mindless chores for him but then induces him to read Shakespeare—lots of Shakespeare. Chapters titled by month initially seem overlong, relating such diverse elements as two terrifying escaped rats, cream puffs from a local bakery, his dad being a cheapskate/cutthroat architect, and Holling's tentative and sweet relationship with classmate Meryl Lee. The scary Doug Swieteck, and his even more frightening brother, and the Vietnam War are recurring menaces. A subplot involves a classmate who, as a recent Vietnamese refugee, is learning English and suffers taunts and prejudice. Cross-country tryouts, rescuing his older runaway sister, and opening day at Yankee Stadium are highlights. There are laugh-out-loud moments that leaven the many poignant ones as Schmidt explores many important themes, not the least of which is what makes a person a hero. The tone may seem cloying at first and the plot occasionally goes over-the-top, but readers who stick with the story will be rewarded. They will appreciate Holling's gentle, caring ways and will be sad to have the book end.—Joel Shoemaker, Southeast Junior High School, Iowa City, IA

Gr 8–10—This powerfully written first novel is a coming-of-age story framed by a historical event. Thirteen-year-old Louise thinks that her life simply couldn't be any more boring. The year is 1960, and her mother has yanked her out of school because an African-American child, Ruby Bridges, has been enrolled in first grade. So Louise has nothing to do except tons of chores in her mother's run-down New Orleans boardinghouse, while Pauline drinks herself into a stupor every afternoon. She spends her mornings with the "Cheerleaders," the local women who gather to heckle Ruby and shout racial epithets at her as she enters the school. One day, a handsome man steps out of a late-model Chevy Bel Air and rents a room. Louise and her mother are both intrigued, and eventually learn that Morgan Miller, who has supposedly come down from New York to visit family, has ties to The Daily Worker. Through conversations with Morgan and firsthand observations, Louise begins to wonder about the morality of the Cheerleaders' activities. After Pauline is a victim of rape and several tragic episodes play out, the woman does something unexpected, and Louise starts to look at her from a different point of view. To most young readers, 1960 is nearly ancient history, yet the prejudice that Louise views in the Ninth Ward is still part of life today, albeit better hidden.—Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

Gr 9 Up—This sequel to Pretty Little Liars (HarperTeen, 2006) opens with the story of Ali, Aria, Spencer, Hanna, and Emily's involvement in an accident that caused a classmate to be hospitalized at the end of seventh grade and Ali's subsequent disappearance. Chapter one then picks up three years later: Ali's body has just been found and the four ex-best friends are at her memorial service reading a virulent communiqué from someone named A. Throughout the remainder of the book, the text messages, notes, and emails from the mysterious A continue to plague the girls, threatening to reveal their darkest secrets. And now A has stepped up the pressure, manipulating them just like Ali did. They've been able to hide these secrets from everyone and present the appearance of being flawless. Only Ali knew, and she's been dead for almost three years. So who is A? And will the threats be carried through to ruin their now-perfect lives? The girls are similar to those in Cecily von Ziegesar's "Gossip Girl" series (Little, Brown): they are wealthy spenders who smoke, drink, think/talk about sex, and attend fabulous parties. What makes this book stand apart is the overriding mystery of A's identity and the girls' fear of discovery. This second book also continues to develop the characters as they work through their very real worries and insecurities. Secondary characters and situations are also more complex. Flawless won't stay on your shelves.—Heather E. Miller, Homewood Public Library, AL

Gr 5 Up—A good subtitle for this delightfully demented collection might be "Be Careful What You Wish For…." Highlights include "Who Do We Appreciate?," in which a teenager referees a children's soccer game of unimaginable importance; "Same Time Next Year," which points out a rather obvious problem with the whole notion of time travel; "Connecting Flight," which will make readers NEVER want to board an airplane again; and "Ralphy Sherman's Root Canal," which will make them NEVER forget to brush their teeth. And, if they share the author's aversion to the flying monkeys in The Wizard of Oz, they might want to approach "Monkeys Tonight" with trepidation. Shusterman's characters range in age from early to middle teens. They're mean to their siblings, or don't listen to those older and wiser, or wish for things they shouldn't, and boy, do they regret it. Extremely readable and elegantly creepy, the selections are perfect for reading aloud or recommending to reluctant readers. The brief introduction to each story gives insight into the author's thought processes, and go a little way toward answering that age-old question: "Where do you get your ideas?" The book includes stories originally published in 1993 and 1995, plus four new tales.—Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 4–8—Since David's mother died in a freak accident, the boy and his father have lived with David's grandmother in Pennsylvania. His father, who works in Connecticut, is gone all week, causing the nine-year-old to turn his grief and loneliness into anger directed at his grandmother. The symbolism of the title is apparent throughout the story, beginning when David sarcastically and rudely refuses to go to the annual Easter egg hunt in the park. Yet it is here that he meets Primrose Dufee, a quirky, equally lonely, and sarcastic 13-year-old girl whose glittery purple eyelids remind him of tiny birds' eggs. Primrose has defiantly moved into an abandoned van to separate herself from her childlike, eccentric fortune-teller mother. The two form a combative yet necessary relationship played out late at night when David sneaks out to help Primrose gather "junk" to sell at a flea market. Refrigerator John, Primrose's neighbor, serves as a safe, responsible, unassuming father figure, helping the youngsters understand themselves and sort through their losses. Spinelli's offbeat characters, wit, and unlikely circumstances are engaging yet the banter between David and Primrose and his rejection of his grandmother are at times extreme. Visual metaphors figure prominently in the multilayered plot while cracking the defensive shells built by these wounded young people.—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 5–8—Grace, 13, arrives at her family's lake house prepared to spend summer cooking, cleaning, and caring for her siblings; she knows her mom will hide out in the back bedroom, smoking and sipping coffee. Her spirits rise when she finds a boy her age just one cabin over and two relatives she's never met, Great Aunt Hilda and her mentally challenged daughter, Gunda, who turn out to be more loving than scary. St. Anthony successfully places tough realities against a nostalgic 1960s backdrop, creating a sharp relief. Readers of The Summer Sherman Loved Me (Farrar, 2006) will immediately recognize Grace and the same affecting storytelling voice. Little develops, however, in the characters and plot. Hilda and Gunda's profound and poignant relationship receives only peripheral treatment. Grace's summer love with Frankie sparks a bit of interest, and Grace comes to appreciate her siblings, whom she had previously dismissed. A lovely, if mild, read for a lazy summer afternoon.—Shelley Huntington, New York Public Library

Gr 6–8—Simon (otherwise known as "Stuff" because of his seemingly endless capacity for absorbing useless information) has it a bit rough. His mother left his father for a frog (no, not a Frenchman or an amphibian, just a bloke with thick glasses), and his father's new girlfriend has just moved in with them. It would be bad enough with just the woman, but she comes with a teenage daughter whom Stuff can't stand, and a feminist attack-rabbit that can't stand the males in the household. Stuff is in love with the gorgeous new girl at school, Sky, but he already has a girlfriend, and she has a frightening big brother, so it does not behoove him to end the relationship. The only good thing going for him is the comic strip he writes for the weekly school magazine. Yet, because the strip is a thinly veiled retelling of Stuff's life and his unflattering opinions of others, he is in big trouble if anyone discovers he is the author. Although the novel may appeal to reluctant readers because of the inclusion of scenes from Stuff's comic strip as well as short, funny anecdotes about the teen and his friends, the British vocabulary will be a challenge, regardless of the appended glossary. Despite an anticlimactic ending, this book has appeal—especially to adolescent boys who will enjoy the engaging narrative, along with the genuinely hilarious circumstances of Stuff's angst.—Heather M. Campbell, Philip S. Miller Library, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 9 Up—Matt Shaw was the star basketball player on his junior high team in Rutland, VT, so everyone is surprised when he doesn't try out for the high school team. During his freshman year, he becomes withdrawn and walks the streets listening to his iPod and dreading the thought of going home because of the frightening change in his older brother. Neal, a former basketball star, didn't receive a scholarship, so he turned to heroin. Matt is fearful of his family's reputation if word gets out. He keeps Neal's secret from his parents, a police detective, and Katie, the only girl he has ever had feelings for, and whose narrative alternates with Matt's. Katie reluctantly tries to get him to open up. Matt eventually tells her what is wrong, and this revelation spirals into a devastating turn of events, which in the end resolves itself in an unsatisfying way. Matt's dilemma is real and heartfelt, and the dialogue is on target. However, it seems unrealistic that Matt's parents have no clue as to how their older son spends his time, and never seem to question what he is doing or what his plans are even as he deals drugs out of their suburban home. At one point, they even think that Matt is the one with problems. While it's true that many parents are in denial or unaware of their children's activities, the situation as developed here just isn't believable.—Shannon Seglin, Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA

Gr 5–8—Each of these general introductions opens with an account of a pivotal moment in the party's history. The books then provide chronological overviews that examine the circumstances of the party's founding and its core beliefs and history, with an emphasis on its evolution and electoral performance. Staton's title is the strongest of the three, describing how the reforms championed by the Progressives were eventually enacted into law even as the party failed to achieve lasting electoral success. The authors are objective about their subjects, describing their successes, defeats, and not-so-shining moments. The books are nicely illustrated with a variety of black-and-white and full-color maps, archival reproductions, and photos. Sidebars provide additional information about laws and people mentioned in the texts and the origins of the donkey and elephant symbols. While these books are largely accurate (although Republican places Franklin Roosevelt's death in 1947) and provide up-to-date coverage, they do not have the depth and comprehensive scope found in Isobel V. Morin's Politics, American Style (21st Century Bks., 1999). That title has a better discussion of the evolution of the American political landscape as a result of interactions among the parties. The Compass Point books are supplemental purchases for libraries that need current materials for report writers.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 4–7—"So the world would know of their love, he had created a monument of eternal beauty." This opulent, oversized picture book adds bits of hypothetical dialogue and emotions to recount the famous 17th-century love story that led to the building of the fabled Taj Mahal. The authors state in a note that very little beyond dates is actually known of the personal lives and relationship of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. Their legendary romance, the building of the beautiful tomb, and the Shah's final years of imprisonment by his son are told in rather flat, formal prose. The small, detailed paintings are formal as well, set on beautifully constructed pages resembling those of illuminated manuscripts. Text blocks, accompanying pictures, and small decorative components appear in narrow deep red frames variously etched in gold. The facing frames are placed on beige pages, each pair printed in a different decorative pattern. The book is sumptuous in appearance and presents a bit of history not often told for children. Principally a love story, it will appeal to some readers for the romance. For others it will be an introduction to the iconic building, and it could serve as well as an introduction to the artistry of fine book design.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 6 Up—The town of Lawrence, MA, was conceived as a utopian manufacturing town, where workers could have housing while a never-ending stream of cloth flowed from its mills. This dream brought waves of immigrants, and dozens of new factories. Whole families crowded into unsafe and unsanitary tenements, working long hours for slave wages. Forced by poverty and encouraged by town officials, children left school early and went to the mills. Then, in 1912, the Massachusetts legislature decreased the number of hours children could work from 56 to 54 per week. Families already on the edge anxiously requested that total wages remain the same. Owners refused to hear their pleas. A strike loomed. Once labor organizers from New York arrived, the strike gained focus and purpose. It brought national attention to the miserable conditions of the Lawrence workers and their compatriots in similar circumstances around the United States. This important book gives a clear picture of early industrial poverty. Baker's style is readable, and the well-chosen, well-reproduced photos make the subject all the more real. This title should be on the shelves of any library whose patrons study this time period, the importance of organized labor, or the plight of America's working poor. Katherine Paterson's novel Bread and Roses, Too (Clarion, 2006) is a good companion.—Tracy H. Chrenka, Forest Hills Public Schools, Grand Rapids, MI

Gr 5–10—Whether used for research or browsing, these titles provide colorful and fascinating information on the role of fashion and its relationship to history, society, and culture. In each book, eight captivating chapters cover the events of the decade and relate how they impacted clothing, accessories, and hairstyles. In 1920s, Herald illuminates how the Jazz Age, Prohibition, and the birth of the "Talkie" brought changes that reflected an open defiance of social restrictions. Costantino points out that the economic climate of the 1930s brought reduced prices on clothing and more practical garments, although there was still stylish attire for those who could afford it. Baker notes that during World War II, fashions became more conservative and frills were in less evidence. Attractive black-and-white illustrations, color photos, reproductions, sketches from magazines and newspapers, and fact boxes enhance and bring to life these lively and accessible texts. A useful two-page chronology in each book lists news, events, and a brief mention of the year-by-year trends. Detailed glossaries listing the significant designers and styles, further-reading lists, and an index complete each appealing title.—Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE

Gr 6–9—These titles link discoveries and inventions to earlier and contemporaneous ones, revealing the "chain reactions" that are often involved in advancements in technology and in knowledge. Ballard defines energy and its sources and traces its development from steam in the Industrial Revolution to nuclear energy and subatomic particles. Morgan tells the story of the atom, including its discovery, structure, power, and future in subatomic particles. In the third book, she focuses on alternative energy sources and includes wind, solar, water, nuclear, geothermal, biopower, and fuel-cell technologies. Archival and full-color photos and reproductions appear on nearly every page. Solid presentations.—Michael Giller, South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities, Greenville

Gr 5–8—Basel discusses the persecution and criticism Sequoyah faced—even from his wife, who burned down his house to stop him from working on the project—while persistently trying to capture the sounds of his language on paper. Seemingly to meet the 100-page assignment requirement for many students, a spacious 6-page "Life and Times" time line compares events in Sequoyah's life to world events. The book includes colorful period paintings, scanned primary-source documents, and modern-day color photographs on topics related to the Cherokee tribe. Sidebars are scattered throughout with sometimes oversimplified definitions or explanations of related topics, e.g., "The Delaware Indians were a group of Native Americans who had once lived along the Delaware River." While probably not a top choice for pleasure reading, this book adequately fulfills report needs. It has more detail than C. Ann Fitterer's Sequoyah: Native American Scholar (The Child's World, 2002).—Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 5–7—This is not an official Disney publication, but it might as well be, as barely a page goes by without references to the three Pirates of the Caribbean movies, their props, characters, spin-off products, or theme-park rides. Swelling his narrative with fluff ("Was it bad luck to have a woman on board?") and occasionally losing coherence (pirate ladies should "be loyal to your true love. You either will…or will not"), the author wanders from past to present, history to fantasy, then closes with extensive annotated lists of pirate-themed books, films, festivals, and purveyors of pirate apparel and gear, along with a lengthy true/false quiz ("4. A poop deck is where pirates went to the bathroom at sea"), a visit with the author of an adult pirate novel, and more. Illustrations range from posters to small color photos of intricately detailed ship models. There's plenty of information here, but it's thrown together, thoroughly commercialized, and aimed more at reenactors and vacation planners than young pirate fans.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 4–8—These titles introduce the science that is used to solve crimes. Through colorful illustrations, vocabulary definitions, and extra information in page insets, readers are taken behind the scenes of actual investigations. They become the detectives as crimes are presented, questions are asked, the gathered evidence is analyzed, and conclusions are drawn. DNA evidence, fingerprints, and forensic artists all come into the picture. Each book also has a help-wanted spread that gives requirements for and explains aspects of a career related to the topic: fingerprint analyst, forensic artist, and DNA scientist. This series is similar in scope to the "Forensics, The Science of Crime Solving" series (Mason Crest) but it is on an easier reading level. Concise and interesting introductions to solving crimes through forensic science.—Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD

Gr 6–10—These well-designed additions to the burgeoning shelves of tween and teen self-help guides have crisp, witty writing and saucy color illustrations. Boys covers the usual territory from knowing who you like and why to knowing your flirting style, figuring out how to give the perfect gift, staying true, and breaking up. The second title offers solutions for a variety of situations and suggests using humor whenever possible, encouraging girls to take social gaffes (and themselves) less seriously. Both books have a few fill-in pages and quizzes.—Elaine Baran Black, Gwinnett County Public Library, Lawrenceville, GA

Gr 4–8—Clear, but somewhat dry introductions. In short paragraphs, dozens of topics are explored with just enough material to give children an overall view of the cities. History, geography, people, religion, language, education, health care, environmental issues, industries, transportation, sports, leisure, major attractions, climate, future visions, and much more are briefly addressed. Each title also profiles individuals who live in the respective areas. Full-color photos, illustrations, or labeled maps appear on every page. Attractive titles for browsing or for assignments.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 4–8—In an author's note, Burleigh states that he hopes his book "briefly captures the broad outlines and drama" of Napoleon's life. "Brief" is the operative word. Half of the book's pages are reproductions of color artworks from Napoleon's era. The text, which includes appropriate quotations by and about the French emperor, is extremely condensed. There is neither a chronology nor a glossary; the maps, of Europe in 1812 and today, show countries only. Napoleon is a gorgeous production, lovely to look at, but an abbreviated introduction. Devotees and students writing reports will need to turn to Miriam Greenblatt's Napoleon Bonaparte and Imperial France (Benchmark, 2005), which provides considerably more detail on his life and times.—Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

Gr 7 Up—The book begins with descriptions of two murders: the brutal and gruesome lynching of a free African American, Francis McIntosh, for a petty crime, and the shooting of Elijah Lovejoy, an outspoken white abolitionist who dared to condemn McIntosh's death in his newspaper. The killings point to the indiscriminate hatred of both slave and anti-slaver. Following the account of the murders, the author describes the dilemma of slavery that faced the Founding Fathers, then moves through the decades to discuss the growing political, ethical, and religious opposition to the institution, and ends with the Civil War. Prominent players and their importance are discussed. The author makes great use of direct quotes from those who lived the events, newspaper accounts, and excerpts from court proceedings. Black-and-white and color archival photographs and illustrations depict slave life. Clearly written and well researched, this logically organized book is an excellent purchase for most libraries.—Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 3–6—These well-designed titles encourage girls to get involved in sports and physical fitness. Each book is carefully structured with chapters discussing how the sport is played, the rules, teamwork, and health tips. Famous female athletes are profiled and a brief glossary defines the technical terms. Youngsters, especially reluctant readers, will be drawn to the vibrant photographs and large diagrams that aid novices in understanding the sport.—Danielle Nicole Du Puis, Forest Ridge Elementary School, Laurel, MD

Gr 5–7—Each book has the same one-page introduction to the ancient Greeks and a map of their civilization. An introduction to the topic of the book, 12 chapters of 2 pages each, and a time line follow. There are abundant boxed quotes from Greek philosophers and writers; photos, mainly in color; and color illustrations. The first title discusses laws, courts and juries, etc. Health includes information on plagues, the influence of gods and goddesses on healing, doctors' diagnoses, the importance of a healthy lifestyle, etc. Daily Life covers such topics as the home, getting married, children, games, jobs, and slavery. Entertainment describes parties, hunting and fishing, art, music, dance, poetry, storytelling, festivals, theater, sports, and Olympic Games. The texts are geared to younger students, but the boxed material requires a higher level of interpretation. Together, these books offer a good understanding of the lives of the ancient Greeks, but that assumes that they're all on the shelf at the same time, and that children are willing to take all four volumes. Lynn Peppas's Life in Ancient Greece (Crabtree, 2004) covers the same information in one volume.—Ann Joslin, Fort LeBoef School District, Waterford, PA

Gr 7–9—After a brief account of the writer's life, Diorio discusses 11 of his major works in chronological order, starting with "The Jumping Frog" and ending with The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson. For each highlighted selection, she gives a bare-bones plot summary and a brief discussion of major themes, characters, and literary devices. There are about 10 pages devoted to each book, and they are full of referenced quotes from secondary sources. Diorio's writing style is dry and she offers no new insight into Twain or his work. She merely summarizes and restates the ideas of others. The book is nicely formatted, with readable font on uncluttered pages. There are a few black-and-white photographs of Twain and some relevant reproductions. Unfamiliar terms are explained in sidebars. Students who are interested in more extensive discussions of plots, characters, and themes will be better served by Cliffs Notes on individual titles or other common study aids. Diorio's book might be of value to students who are intimidated by the length of Cliffs Notes, or who want a discussion of several books in one short volume.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 5 Up—Topics such as U.S. policy decisions regarding Puerto Rico and Cuba, racism experienced by immigrants and those who became American when the U.S.-Mexican border shifted in 1848, Latino culture in the United States, and the repatriation of Mexicans during the Great Depression are covered in a reasonable amount of detail. Plenty of captioned photographs, political cartoons, and colorful subheads and informational sidebars keep the book visually interesting. While the author's word choice does occasionally betray a slight bias toward the plight of immigrants, the perspective is a valid and important one. This book would be a good choice for rounding out any American history collection, but will be particularly useful in communities with large Latino populations.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 4–6—Gaines uses examples of bear and tiger attacks to show that these animals are always dangerous no matter how tame they seem. However, he also makes a case for their preservation and humane treatment. Each book describes the different species of bears or tigers, their habitats, and their potential for extinction, using narrative text and fact boxes on topics such as "A Bear's Senses" and "Tiger Preserves." Both sources have color photographs and diagrams, including anatomical drawings. Bear provides a full page of suggestions on how to avoid an assault, and another full page on what to do if it happens. A short chapter in Tiger discusses similar information, but since these creatures do not live in the wild in North America, there isn't as much advice. While the subject matter is graphic, there are no pictures of attacks or of victims. However, the photography, showing animals in natural habitats and in zoos, leaves no doubt that they are dangerous. These books could be used for reports but are also useful for general awareness.—Cynde Suite, Bartow County Library System, Adairsville, GA

Gr 8 Up—No one can question Garden's ability to pen a breathy, urgent lesbian romance full of passion and strife. Her first offering in this anthology is nothing short of that: two girls, Angela and Elizabeth, eke out a swoony romance in letters to one another in 1952, a time when their relationship would never be accepted. In a later selection, two boys journey to New York City for a date—only to witness the Stonewall Riots. And, in another, a correspondence between two queer cousins ends in asphyxiation, a potent reminder of the days when most LGBTQ teen books ended with a car crash. This well-intended compilation is prefaced by a historical record of the climate of each decade since 1950. But, interestingly enough, the early stories are the most fully realized with well-rounded characters finding real love in spite of their circumstances. Many of the others feel trapped in the decades within which they're embedded. All of the stories are identity-based: teens discover who they are, who their friends and family members are, and what society at that time thinks of them. Isolation reigns, and only in the last few stories do readers see characters finding community. While the book will certainly pique the interests of teen-lit historians, it feels lost and outdated, and teen readership and appeal may be harder to find. Garden's stories resurrect the darker side of LGBTQ life. Homophobia, censorship, and violence sadly still make national headlines, to be sure, but polls show that today's teenagers are the most tolerant generation yet. They crave stories about themselves and their future.—Hillias J. Martin, New York Public Library

Gr 5–9—Grandits crafts his collections with the needs of poetry-phobic readers in mind. It isn't even necessary to crack the book, since the first poem, "Blue Lipstick," is cleverly placed on the front cover, surrounding a reflective mirror. This selection introduces readers to Jessie, who impulsively purchases blue lipstick, but later, regretfully decides to give it "the kiss-off." Jessie is big sister to Robert, who was featured in Grandits's Technically, It's Not My Fault (Clarion, 2004). As he did in that terrific collection, the author uses artful arrangements of text on the page, along with 54 different typefaces, to bring his images and ideas to life. Jessie's a typical ninth grader who spends much of her time squabbling with her brother; doesn't always see eye-to-eye with her parents; and is preoccupied with clothes, makeup, and dealing with bad-hair days. She confides early on that life is simpler when you build a wall around yourself, as "You've got to be careful who you make friends with." Jessie writes poems to her cat, believes in guardian angels, and though she's quick to form strong opinions, she's smart enough to revise them, too. In the end, she's still got her wall, but she realizes "now I've got more company." This irreverent, witty collection should resonate with a wide audience.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 5–7—These books about countries with violent conflicts—one largely resolved, the other ongoing—begin promisingly with brief overviews that aim for dispassionateness. However, the one-size-fits-all chapter structure that soon takes over, covering landscape, climate, population, government, education, economy, culture, and more, ensures that while these titles will be useful for reports, they fail to increase children's real understanding of either Israel or South Africa. The information presented will not give readers insight into, for example, what life might be like in a small South African town with almost 50 percent unemployment, or for a Palestinian child living in the West Bank, or for a Jewish Israeli in the Golan. Particularly in the case of Israel, the tone of the historical and political account is bland, favoring the status quo, and one gets little sense of the trauma and pain caused by the conflict on either side. In South Africa, the government mishandling of the HIV/AIDS crisis is downplayed, and the largely upbeat tone, especially in the section on the economy, does not illuminate the everyday realities of the lives of the majority of people. Full-color photos are clear and adequately captioned. Each title has a country map and a number of charts illustrating economic data. The time line for South Africa begins in 8000 B.C.E., while the one for Israel begins in the 1890s with the founding of the Zionist movement. There are no source notes.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

Gr 5–8—This book was adapted for young readers from Grogan's Marley & Me. It is a love story about a newlywed couple who decide to get a dog and the "bargain" Labrador retriever they choose. The tiny puppy has a zest for life, but is too young to be separated from his mother. By the time he is ready to go to his new home, he has grown considerably, and his enthusiasm for everyone and everything has increased proportionally. Marley becomes a large, drooling loose cannon on four legs. He loves people and other animals, hates to be alone, and is terrified of storms. His owners try to control him, but Marley is his own dog and lives by his own rules. His stint at obedience school is a disaster; he wreaks havoc in the house; and, to the couple's amazement, he lands a role in a movie. Except for the latter, the scenarios will be familiar to anyone who has ever loved and been owned by an out-of-control pup. This version contains only stories that deal with Marley and little about the other aspects of his owners' lives that are in the original story. The book contains a lot of laughs, some tender moments, and heart-wrenching chapters that deal with Marley's illness and death. Yes, he dies. But recommend it anyway; it's worth the tears.—Nancy P. Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC

Gr 6–9—These books, each of which includes nine projects, begin with subject-specific introductions to science-fair basics and the scientific method. The authors explain the outline of the projects and encourage readers to explore and critique various sources before they begin. Colorful photographs or illustrations appear on every spread. Experiments include measuring how Earth's position relative to the sun changes each day (Astronomy), measuring how the angle of a ramp affects acceleration (Forces), and what salt does to a plant (Rocks). A hypothesis to guide research, an indication of difficulty level, a list of materials (most of which should be readily available) and their approximate cost, and a further-reading list precede the instructions. Questions to prompt students on what to observe and additional activities and ideas for project displays are provided. The writing is dry, but solid and straightforward. However, supplemental resources will be needed. For example, Rocks directs students to study the Mohs hardness scale, which does not appear anywhere in the book. The last chapter of each work, "The Competition," offers tips on preparing for the science-fair judges and more on creating a display and final report. Yael Calhoun's Earth Science Fair Projects Using Rocks, Minerals, Magnets, Mud, and More (2005) and Robert Gardner's Forces and Motion Science Fair Projects Using Water Balloons, Pulleys, and Other Stuff (2004, both Enslow) offer more comprehensive introductions. Halls's books are additional purchases.—Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Gr 4–8—With the unique perspective of focusing on child mummies throughout the world, this title adds to the growing cadre of books on the topic. Using an accessible combination of scientific language and layman's vocabulary, Halls builds a strong understanding of the possible reasons for mummification; describes various processes of preserving human remains, both accidental and intentional; and introduces the people who made important discoveries and the scientists who are working to learn more. Beginning in South America, the author explains how particular youngsters were chosen as sacrificial gifts to the gods, and then proceeds to discuss mummies from nearly every continent. Interviews with researchers and modern-day explorers punctuate the well-written narrative and lend an air of authority to the book. High-quality full-color photographs are used effectively throughout and provide a visual understanding of the text; they serve as a lure for students who are drawn to the more gruesome aspects of the subject. An excellent glossary, a thorough bibliography, and listings of museums with mummy collections are all appended. Pair this with titles such as Shelley Tanaka's Mummies (Abrams) or Sandra Markle's Outside and Inside Mummies (Walker, both 2005) for an up-to-date look at this fascinating aspect of archaeology.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 4–7—These titles provide a fairly detailed history with a focus on the Golden Age of Piracy that lasted from the late 1600s until the mid-1700s. Distinctions between privateers and pirates are made clear, and a brief discussion of more modern-day pirates is included. A Pirate's Life conveys a good bit of information, from the grim realities of life at sea to the role that many women played in piracy. Mentions of popular culture and media representation occasionally detract from the more serious nature of the presentations, thus landing them somewhere between report fodder and fun browsing books. The artwork provides a fairly conventional view of pirates and doesn't add much to the text. The writing, while clear and straightforward, can be repetitive, and information sometimes overlaps between the two books. Librarians looking to beef up their pirate collections would be better off with titles such as Milton Meltzer's Piracy and Plunder (Dutton, 2001) or Moira Butterfield's Pirates and Smugglers (Kingfisher, 2005).—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 5–8—The Harkinses begin their book with "The Legend of Betsy Ross," the story most associated with her, when George Washington asks her to make a new flag for the young country. They then go on to detail what is and is not actually known about Ross's life and her involvement in the American Revolution. Careful to qualify many statements, using words and phrases such as "supposedly," "may have," and "probably," they remind readers that many details are conjecture based on research. The final chapter is a well-constructed analysis of how the legend was born and entered the historical consciousness, and the evidence that exists to supports Ross's role in helping to create the flag. Tracy presents a concise portrait of New England life in the mid to late 1700s. Hale was born in 1755, graduated from Yale, and worked as a teacher before joining a Connecticut colonial regiment in 1775. In September 1776, he was arrested by the British and executed the next day without a trial. Both books are written in a lively, fast-paced style. Readers will find the texts easy to follow and unencumbered by great detail. The books are illustrated with archival period paintings as well as site photographs. Ross identifies many of the artists whose work is shown, an informative detail that is often neglected. The boldly colored, graphic-laden page design, along with short paragraphs and chapters, will keep report writers moving through the informative texts.—Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA

Gr 5–7—As a companion to 100 Greatest Science Inventions of All Time (Libraries Unlimited, 2006), Haven offers his choices for the most significant advances (in recorded history) in our knowledge or understanding of the physical universe. Listed in chronological order, the "discoveries" range from young Archimedes's description of levers (ca. 260 B.C.E.) and Vesalius's revolutionary study of human anatomy (1543) to Niels Bohr's theory of atomic bonding (1913) and the mapping of the human genome (2003). The author opens each entry with a lucid justification for its inclusion, goes on to relate each discovery's circumstances in a lively way ("Tipped off that Franklin had new information, Crick stole one of Rosalind's X-shaped X-rays"), and concludes with a substantial reading list. He closes the volume with several indexes plus a "B" List of discoveries that didn't quite make the cut. Along with several typos and spelling errors (e.g., "Young Vesalius poured over each volume"), the gray, pictureless layout makes this more suitable for reading aloud to classes than for individual study or pleasure reading. Still, it would make a useful supplemental resource for students of the history of science.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 8 Up—In eighth grade, Irwin began experiencing symptoms of depression, including hopelessness, despair, and a stifling cloudiness of mind. This book chronicles her experience with "the dark force that had seized control of my life," covering early signs, thoughts of suicide, inpatient treatment in a psychiatric hospital, and readjustment to high school life. Aimed at adolescents who struggle with mental illness, Irwin's story provides a road map to recovery that she describes as "a graph with lots of peaks and valleys, but an overall trend that was heading upward." Her voice is that of an older, wiser friend who empathizes with what depressed teens are going through. Chapters are divided into two sections. In "My Story," Irwin details her personal history with depression. "The Big Picture" includes more general information on symptoms, risk factors, treatment, and a "Guy's-Eye View" sidebar. This format is highly effective for balancing the author's autobiographical perspective with scientific input from her coauthors. Additional features include FAQs and sources for more information. This title is an excellent choice for readers of Brent Runyon's The Burn Journals (Knopf, 2004) and Gail Griffith's Will's Choice (HarperCollins, 2005). Sadly, the unappealing cover may deter browsers, but this book is well worth a close look.—Amy Pickett, Ridley High School, Folsom, PA

Gr 3–8—Researching both primary and secondary sources, Katz has created a unique volume that explores the lives of more than 120 explorers, from ancient times to the present. Entries include Genghis Khan, whose commanders, Jebe and Subedi, tell the story in two voices of the conquering of Russia ("Our horses and our cavalry/will be our keys/to victory!"), and the Vikings ("…Vikings become/better workers/when they're roused/to be berserkers."). The book also introduces Egeria, a "remarkable nun" who kept a diary of her pilgrimage to Egypt and the Holy Land circa 390, and Hanno, who led an expedition of 60 ships in 530 B.C. to explore the west coast of Africa and "…to build new towns,/where Carthage then could trade." Space heroes, educators, and scientists are among the modern explorers. Katz challenges readers to consider not only the courage of these individuals, but also to broaden their horizons in terms of the definition of exploration and the motivations behind it. The entry for Mae Jemison reads, "…Now a scientist in outer space,/I've proved my parents true./"There's no one who you cannot be.'/"There's nothing you cannot do.'" All the selections encourage reading aloud, especially the poems for two voices. The few black-and-white illustrations scattered throughout are small and iconic. Although the book has limited visual appeal, the poems are creative and present a new perspective on an old subject. Teachers will find many cross-curricular connections.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

Gr 4–6—A well-organized, entertaining book. Keenan starts with the astonishing fact that there are more pets in the United States than people (and that the number of cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, and other small animals combined does not even add up to the number of pet fish). She then describes how changing religious and cultural attitudes led to the domestication of wild animals and their transformation from possible evening meal to beloved companion. This trip through history is followed by chapters about specific pets, with cats and dogs getting the bulk of the coverage. However, everything from furry to feathered to scaly gets a mention (as do pet rocks, sea monkeys, and Tamagotchis). The book ends with a chapter on "Eternal Pets," covering how animal burial and immortalizing is an ancient tradition. For a volume with such scope, it is disappointing that the ending is so abrupt. The book is well researched though, and includes a bibliography heavy on books, with periodicals, videos, and Web sites given space as well. Animals is written in a witty, casual voice that will attract and hold its intended audience ("some snakes, like the poisonous ones, shouldn't be pets at all…duh!"). Color photos and a snappy layout add to the appeal. You will want to welcome Animals in the House into your collection.—Kara Schaff Dean, Needham Public Library, MA

Gr 5–8—Serviceable introductions to the lives of three historical figures. Each book opens with a dramatic episode in the individual's life. For example, the opening chapter in the first book describes Hancock signing the Declaration of Independence; Susan B. Anthony begins with her arrest after illegally voting in an 1872 election. From there, the texts chronicle these people's lives, providing such highlights as Hancock's successful shipping business and stints as governor of Massachusetts; Anthony's work for the women's rights and temperance movements; and Jefferson's role in the Revolution and new government, and his conflicting approaches to slavery. Each book has FYI sections throughout that address such topics as Jefferson's relationship with Sally Hemings, the Susan B. Anthony coin, and Harvard University, which Hancock attended. The books are crisply designed, with clear photographs, drawings, and paintings. Anthony and Hancock are engaging and well organized and would make adequate additions to collections needing new material. Jefferson is a little more complex and some knowledge of such world events as the French Revolution would be helpful.—Kristen Oravec, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 7 Up—Hurston lived an extraordinary life and left an exceptional literary legacy. Numerous texts are available about her and her works, including Mary E. Lyons's Sorrow's Kitchen (S & S, 1993), Robert Hemenway's Zora Neale Hurston (Univ. of Illinois, 1980), and Hurston's compelling autobiography, Dust Tracks on a Road (Perennial, 2006). Though clearly written and well organized, this biography does not pretend to be comprehensive and adds nothing new to the canon. It simply provides a straightforward overview of a complex life. Hurston was courageous and outrageous at the same time, and Litwin portrays those traits well. She places her subject within the context of the times and uses archival photographs to advantage. Still, although Hurston's constant lack of money is conveyed, the book glosses over the author's tragic and desperate last years, and her death as a pauper. This book should, however, make a useful addition to most collections.—Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 3–6—This heavily illustrated, oversize volume introduces the pantheon of Norse gods and giants and some of Thor's family members and then relates several well-known tales of the Thunder God. Drawing on tales heard in her own childhood and those found in well-known collections and some secondary sources, Lunge-Larsen adds dialogue and descriptive details to the spare retellings. Usually, the stories move along well, though occasionally the use of colloquial language somewhat diminishes the grand stature of the characters. "'You know what?' said Thor. 'You're a powerful little fellow, and I'm proud to call you my son.'" The Norse names of the characters have been retained with only Thor's magical goats renamed in English as Toothgnasher and Toothgrinder. Thor tangles with Loki, receives his wonderful hammer, duels with Rugnir, is outwitted by Outgardloki, and bears the humiliation of dressing as Freya to retrieve his stolen hammer from Trym. The generous digital illustrations are mixed in execution and appeal. There are plenty of strong and ugly characters but many have the flat, unrealistic look of those common to many animated films. Less vivid than Thor of Marvel Comics fame, they lack the realism and compelling power of the god rendered in some paintings and prints. There's a substantial glossary and pronunciation guide, and a good list for further reading, and libraries short of Norse mythology will find the book a welcome introduction.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 5–8—The first third of each of these books goes into considerable detail on the political and economic situations that precipitated the settlements' establishment. Since Williamsburg was founded by settlers from Jamestown, those two volumes work well together to present a more complete view of early Virginia. Each volume begins with a map, although Plymouth's has Philadelphia highlighted and the colony itself unmarked. The page design is clean and uncluttered; however, special-interest insets, while adding useful details, interrupt the text mid-sentence and are annoying. Of the three titles, Plymouth is the most engaging, as McNeese captures the spirit of the settlers as people more so than he does in the other books. These factual overviews are informative but do not bring history to life. Events are related without an emotional component. Students may appreciate the straightforward approach but casual readers will wish for more human interaction. The impact of European settlers on Native Americans is discussed, but the point of view is more English than balanced. These titles offer more detailed information than the "Building America" series (Mitchell Lane) but are not as compelling as "Voices from Colonial America" (National Geographic).—Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA

Gr 4–6—Full of detail and packed with information, this account explains how the bell became a symbol for so many historical and significant causes and its place today. The author discusses its vital role in a period that depended on town criers for news, and the many occasions on which it was wrung: to tell about the Boston Tea Party, to inform citizens that Congress had adopted a flag, and, most importantly, to announce that the 13 colonies had officially become an independent nation. Magaziner also incorporates the forming of the First Continental Congress, and supplies interesting facts about important players of the time, such as John Hancock and George Washington. Readers will be surprised to learn of the bell's many travels at requests from various states for spectators to see it and how it was, and still is, dearly revered by so many as a symbol of liberty. Lively pen-and-ink sketches decorate many of the pages. An interesting book for readers who already have some knowledge of the Colonial period and the War of Independence.—Jennifer Cogan, Bucks County Free Library, Doylestown, PA

Gr 4 Up—This ambitious work covers the history of the African people in America from the 1400s to the present. Historical photographs, archival documents, maps, and a fact-filled time line provide a visually stimulating introduction to the subject. The illustrations are accompanied by informational paragraphs with bold headings such as "Kidnapped!" and "Wanted: Runaways!" that draw readers into the story of the long struggle, social change, and continuing discrimination that mark the African-American experience. Abolitionists and the Civil War, jazz and literature during the Harlem Renaissance, African Americans in sports and the military, and the Civil Rights Movement are just some of the topics discussed. Thumbnail sketches of important figures, including Phyllis Wheatley [sic], Booker T. Washington, Rosa Parks, and Barack Obama, engage readers' attention. The last chapter, "Resources," includes a list of "Laws & Proclamations" and "Charts & Graphs." The book is more visually appealing but less comprehensive than Dorothy and Thomas Hoobler's The African American Family Album (Oxford Univ., 1998) or Walter Dean Myers's Now Is Your Time!: The African-American Struggle for Freedom (HarperCollins, 1991). Masoff provides a tremendous amount of material in an exciting, appealing title that is useful for browsing, introductory lessons, quick reference, and beginning research.—Carole Phillips, Greenacres Elementary School, Scarsdale, NY

Gr 4–6—As a follow-up to his elaborately packaged Pirates (S & S, 2006), Matthews presents a 13-member gallery of renowned cutthroats, brigands, and knaves who preyed on shipping during piracy's Golden Age. Though the special features are rather scant—a "jewel" embedded in the front cover, two attached booklets, and a double gatefold view of a generic "Captain's Cabin"—the busy mix of new and period illustrations, which include the odd bloody cannonball or severed finger along with other rousing fare, helps to compensate. Readers who can't get enough of Blackbeard, Black Sam, or Black Bart, of cruel Henry Morgan, ferocious Charlotte De Berry, and others of their scurvy ilk will enjoy these vivid profiles, but along with the previous volume, William Lubber's very similar Pirateology (Candlewick, 2006) covers much of the same territory. Consider this an additional purchase.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 4–8—Authorized and introduced by Barbaro's owners, Gretchen and Roy Jackson, this account starts with the infamous accident in the first few seconds of the Preakness in 2006. Then the story flashes back to the horse's birth, bloodlines, training, and phenomenal success on the track. The description of his winning Kentucky Derby performance is like an equine play-by-play of a superior athlete. His breakdown and the therapies that ensued trying to save his life are detailed, as is the painful decision to eventually euthanize him. The author writes in short, simple sentences that nonetheless have great force and style, and includes the points of view of his trainers and attendants. Equine and racing vocabulary are defined, and there is an explanation of how Barbaro's genes and DNA predisposed him to be strong and fast and background information on Churchill Downs. Eight pages of color photos and sample support letters from children all add to this inspiring story of facing uncertainty with grace and courage.—Ann Robinson, Moultonborough Academy Library, NH

Gr 5–9—This fact-filled biography of the award-winning author has substantial information, but the prose is quite dull. The title is peppered with praise-filled snippets of reviews of Spinelli's books. A limited number of photographs of the subject helps to relieve the monotony. An appended author interview, time line, comprehensive chapter notes, a chronological listing of the author's major works, and an extensive index complete the presentation. This is for report writers who already have knowledge of, and interest in, Spinelli's work.—Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 4–8—The questions surrounding Earhart's ultimate fate spark the interest of many. Micklos discusses the pilot's childhood, including what made her tick and what made her fly. However, the book's real focus is on the events of her fateful round-the-world adventure. The author makes it clear that Earhart understood the risks she was taking and was compelled to try it anyway. There are several theories about what happened to her and her copilot, Fred Noonan, on July 2, 1937. Perhaps her airplane ran out of fuel, causing its passengers to die at sea. Maybe they landed on a nearby Pacific island and waited in vain for rescue. Or it could be they made an emergency landing and were picked up by the Japanese military, who suspected them of spying for the American government. As the plane and remains have never been found and identified, no one really knows. Fully half of this book is devoted to the famous flight and the possible explanations for what occurred. Chock-full of photos, including an aerial view of the diminutive Howland Island, Unsolved captures the imagination. The author highlights specific subjects and concepts that are essential to understanding Earhart's character and times. Even libraries that own other books about the aviator should consider this one.—Tracy H. Chrenka, Forest Hills Public Schools, Grand Rapids, MI

Gr 3–6—This well-researched account of legendary land and sea creatures will provide satisfying new information for those already contemplating the existence of these beasts. In addition, the whimsical watercolor illustrations and engaging narrative presented in chapter-book format will pique the curiosity of anyone considering the question for the first time and will appeal to readers who don't normally gravitate toward nonfiction topics. Miller includes Bigfoot in her discussion, but it is her detailed treatment of lesser-known monsters such as the Big Bird of Texas, hoop snakes, Mothman, the Jersey Devil, the sea maiden of Biloxi, the sea serpent of Gloucester, and the cadborosaurus in British Columbia that adds to the breadth of this book. Chapters are structured with anecdotal information of firsthand encounters followed by the scientific theories that could disprove these sightings. In each instance, the author provides hope for believers with such inconclusive statements as "all we have to do is wait." Those hungry for spooky stories will find their fill with such chilling legends as that of the black snake that puts his tail in his mouth and rolls down a hill, aggressively pursuing the woodsmen who destroyed his home. And devotees of the "Can Science Solve?" series (Heinemann Library) will savor this new blend of the logical and the mysterious.—Gloria Koster, West School, New Canaan, CT

Gr 7 Up—These books provide overviews, from the circumstances that precipitated the cases through the status of the ruling in society today. For example, Mountjoy opens with a chapter on New York's 22-word Regents' prayer, implemented in classrooms in 1958, and closes with an examination of "Prayer in School Today" that touches on a 2005 U.S. federal court ruling against the instruction of intelligent design in Pennsylvania. Van Meter introduces the specifics of the case and ends with a discussion of Miranda after Miranda. In both books, chapters are organized in a research-friendly format, with section headings guiding readers through the often-circuitous process of decisions, appeals, and public reactions. Sidebars elucidate related personalities and topics, such as Earl Warren, the ACLU, federalism, and amicus briefs. Excellent period photos, magazine covers, and portraits of historical figures are closely cued to the texts. Reproductions of primary documents, including Ernesto Miranda's signed confession, greatly enhance the presentation of the cases. Overall, these handsomely packaged, accessible titles provide timely updates to older series that covered similar territory, such as "Landmark Supreme Court Cases" (Enslow).—Amy Pickett, Ridley High School, Folsom, PA

Gr 6–9—Mostly new but based in part on Charles B. Clayman's The Human Body (DK, 1995), this coffee-table quarto combines jaw-dropping illustrations with meaty captions and commentary to give "Eyewitness" graduates a mesmerizing tour of the body's parts and common diseases. After opening with examples of different nonsurgical ways of peering beneath the skin—all of which are used in the pictures that follow—and other general observations, the itinerary begins with cells and DNA, finishes with reproduction and aging, and in between stops at each of 10 systems for close-up looks at major physical structures, processes, and disorders. Distinguished for razor-sharp detail, realistic modeling, clean colors, and clear and thorough labeling, the art ranges from simple ECG lines and small diagrams showing muscles in motion to dramatic full-spread cutaways that capture the transmission of a nerve impulse, the structure of an eye, the body's response to inflammation. Blocks of text that fill up, but don't look squeezed into, the remaining page space provide basic definitions, discussions of processes, and illuminating explanations of the accompanying art. Packaged with a CD that contains interactive and animated versions of many illustrations, this title will be a popular addition to classroom and reference collections.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 4 Up—A nuanced retelling of the 12th-century tale. Awed by five knights he meets near his home, a young man vows to travel to King Arthur's court. Ignoring his mother's grief over his departure, he finds plenty of action on the way, culminating in his defeat of a fearsome foe and being knighted by Arthur. Feeling remorseful, Perceval heads home to ease his mother's heart. During his travels, he comes upon a mysterious castle where he witnesses a procession in which a maiden carries an amazing goblet. Too ashamed of his ignorance to ask his sickly host about it, Perceval unwittingly condemns the man to continued suffering. This act and the discovery that his mother has died from heartbreak lead Perceval to a hermit priest who listens to his confession and helps him to find insight and peace. Spirin's illustrations are glorious. Panels were painted in egg tempera on a large gessoed board, photographed individually, and reproduced on the appropriate pages. The tones are deep and jewel-like, the detail wonderful. The artwork is like a cross between the Très Riches Heures and Pre-Raphaelite paintings. Perkins's prose is likewise a hybrid of the straightforward and the original's lapidary telling. As such, character development is not emphasized, and Perceval remains more metaphor than man. Although there is a forward thrust to the plot, events seem disconnected. Still, readers who love tales of chivalry will find this one satisfying. A beautiful addition for collections where Howard Pyle's titles or James Riordan's Tales of King Arthur (Rand-McNally, 1982; o.p.) are popular.—Ann Welton, Helen B. Stafford Elementary, Tacoma, WA

Gr 7 Up—Inspired in part by the popularity of television programs such as Law & Order and CSI, publishers have over the past several years released an outpouring of forensic-science-related titles, including Donna M. Jackson's excellent The Wildlife Detectives (Houghton, 2000) and Ron Fridell's Forensic Science (Lerner, 2006). Rainis's books provide exhaustive primers on collecting and analyzing crime-scene evidence. He stresses the importance of safety, thorough note-taking, and impeccable reporting, calling for the types of detection skills that have led to the conviction of criminals like Timothy McVeigh and Ted Bundy. In both books, the author follows historical crime stories with related hands-on project ideas, such as building an automotive paint-chip reference collection or searching for latent fingerprints on paper. The projects demand a great deal of patience and academic rigor, not to mention supplies (for example, "Can a Fake Finger Be Created?" calls for access to a photocopier, a tube of powdered graphite, and a glass microscope slide, among other items). Fundamental exercises such as creating a database of fiber types or examining fingerprint ridgeline details will give students a taste of the painstaking—and often tedious—work behind criminal law, while Rainis's descriptions of real-life arson, terrorism, and murder will keep the practical application of all these techniques at the forefront. With illustrated step-by-step directions, call-out boxes, and photos of crime officers at work, the books are visually diverse. Both titles deserve a place in most science-fair collections: the hot subject matter will attract students, while the emphasis of scientific methods and comprehensive back matter will satisfy teachers.—Denise Ryan, Middlesex Middle School, Darien, CT

Gr 4–6—This book challenges readers to become volcanic-eruption predictors. Using Mt. St. Helens and its spectacular 1980 eruption as well as other smaller eruptions there as "the suspect," a variety of clues—on temperature, ground deformation, etc.—are presented, and their significance to the pre-1980 mountain is explained. Finally, scenarios describe other, smaller volcanic events on Mt. St. Helens, and detective-readers are asked to deduce from the conditions whether an explosion happened or not. A concluding page in each chapter gives the answer. The text is breezy, its light humor masking the fact that it is packed with information. Each chapter contains an easy experiment, ranging from creating a soda-bottle eruption to acting as a "human seismograph," that's suitable for science projects or classroom use. Cartoons and color photographs keep step with the text, and green topic boxes (explaining how scientists collect rocks from inside a crater, how they measure telltale gases in the air, and more) are liberally sprinkled throughout. Team this with titles like Melvin and Hilda Berger's Why Do Volcanoes Blow Their Tops? (Scholastic, 2000), Donna O'Meara's personal Into the Volcano (Kids Can, 2005), and/or Chris Hayhurst's Volcanologists (Rosen, 2003) for expanded use of this work describing a real-life volcano, its geological messages, and the scientists who decipher the language of the Earth to predict the next blast.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—This biography of the legendary but somewhat mysterious Cleopatra provides a balanced account of her life and legacy while making clear that much of what is known about her comes from the Romans, who considered her a villain. The text is strongest in its descriptions of Egyptian culture and religion, the role of women, and life in the Nile Valley. In later chapters, the complicated sequence of battles and events might be difficult for readers to follow. Numerous color reproductions and illustrations brighten the text, but the maps vary widely in style and quality and are often difficult to read.—Marcia Kochel, Olson Middle School, Bloomington, MN

Gr 3–6—A colorfully designed and artfully arranged photographic cover is the perfect introduction to the 12 unique and creative projects within. An overall neat appearance and precise, vibrant illustrations or sharp photos add to the attractive layout. Materials and tools are easily obtainable either as recycled items or in craft, dollar, and hardware stores. All items needed are listed and illustrated. "Safety Notes" indicate the importance of wearing gloves and safety glasses as well as the need for adult assistance. The techniques, using plastic, nylon fishing line, tape, glue, and screwdrivers, are carefully explained. The crafts require time and patience and can be completed in 8 to 22 steps, with adult assistance. They are whimsical and fun, and children will love them.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 9 Up—Shivack's personal narrative and graphic-novel-style depiction of her eating disorder, including anorexia and bulimia, is disturbing, revealing, and ultimately enlightening. Chronicled on napkins, notebook paper, or whatever scrap was available, Nadia's story unfolds as she endures it. She refers to her eating disorder as "Ed," draws it as a dragon, and details its hold on her life and sanity starting at age 14. This is a work that speaks to the victims, revealing the inner turmoil, possible causes, and pain. Especially poignant are the pictures, such as the anatomy of a flower with a torment of words on each petal describing her angst while a small figure leans over the central blue seed, the toilet bowl. The drawings are laid out on yellow pages, while a hindsight commentary about what was happening appears in white type over black boxes. Facts about the illness are presented in darker yellow boxes and each is linked to a specific Web site at the conclusion. A list of resources for intervention is appended. While the handwritten text and complex images are occasionally hard to decipher, readers will be motivated to stick with them as they decode the messages. The time it takes to examine the text and drawings heightens the book's impact. Filled with harrowing honesty, this presentation provides a portal to understanding a devastating illness.—Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

Gr 7 Up—A profile of a mathematician, physicist, and astronomer born in Basra, in what is now Iraq, in 965 C.E. The text vacillates between relating the life of this multifaceted scientist and digressing into lengthy accounts about the time in which he lived. The opening chapter describes the Arab Muslims and their mass migration with a sprinkling of references to Ibn al-Haytham's boyhood. While the historical background is informative, it may lose readers expecting a more biographical account. Steffens credits the man as a pioneer of the scientific method, citing his emphasis on testing hypotheses through experimentation. The most engaging chapter introduces The Book of Optics, a groundbreaking treatise on vision and light. Most of the scientist's other works are mentioned only briefly. Intriguingly, the author speculates that Ibn al-Haytham may have faked madness so he could be released from a government post to pursue his research. Steffens informs readers of the sparseness of information available about his subject and indicates when he is making assumptions. He also incorporates how religion played a part in the man's life. Boxed entries about related topics appear throughout. All quotations are documented in the source notes. The well-placed reproductions and detailed captions add interest and additional facts. This book will circulate best where students seek short biographies on people of varied cultures for reports.—Linda L. Plevak, Bulverde/Spring Branch Library, Spring Branch, TX

Gr 4–7—In each of these glossy introductions, a crisp text describes the major physical characteristics shared by all of the featured animals, behavior, distinctive characteristics of several large groups and more than two dozen species, habitats, defense mechanisms, diets, and life cycles. Each book also mentions hibernation, migration, pollination, threats to the animals' survival, and efforts to preserve them. Butterflies explains how the insects actually mate, a detail most introductions omit. Oddly enough, it does not use the term "metamorphosis," although the process is thoroughly described. Bats has a detailed explanation of echolocation. A sharp color photograph of one or more of the featured animals in natural settings illustrates the text on most pages; about a third are almost full page, except for margins, and some spill over onto the next page. A few adequate color drawings, one of which is an anatomical diagram, appear as well. Captions in small print offer additional facts, as do sidebars. Terms are defined as they appear in the text, along with a pronunciation guide in parentheses. Both titles have more detailed information on physiology and behavior and life cycles than most general introductions to these animals aimed at about the same age level, such as Laurence Pringle's Bats! (Boyds Mills, 2000) and Jen Green's Butterflies (Benchmark, 1999). Note: These profusely illustrated titles will appeal to browsers as well as report writers.—Karey Wehner, formerly at San Francisco Public Library

Gr 5–8—Deceptively simple in appearance (two charming museum mice skitter about the pages, posing pertinent questions and offering straight answers), The often chatty text follows the trail of human evolution, basing its factual content on current data exhibited in the New Hall of Human Origins in New York City's American Museum of Natural History. Using the skills of anthropologists, archaeologists, and paleontologists, the authors track clues laid down in the fossil record, and, more importantly, in our DNA. They trace both mitochondrial DNA and "Y" chromosome DNA around the planet to determine early man's global wanderings, and also compare the genomes of other living entities to our ongoing human evolution. The very un-simple concepts are presented clearly, in an attractive format, with splashings of small photos, colorful artwork, diagrams, and maps to attract the eye and elucidate the text. The book is up-to-the-minute in its factual content and its application of said content to current theories. This is a sturdy, informative, and eye-catching addition to the often underutilized sections on human evolution and genetic research.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 6 Up—It is impossible to work with young people and not have heard of High School Musical, the made-for-TV movie that became a surprise hit for Disney last year, propelling the accompanying soundtrack to the top of the Billboard charts. This book (which takes its title from the film's closing number) traces the creation of the movie, includes short biographies of each of the six young leads, and briefly discusses subsequent related projects, including an amateur theatrical version and the upcoming sequel. Although "unofficial," there is very little here that wouldn't pass muster in a studio-produced publication: the colorful, glossy layout is filled with color photos of the stars (though few of the photos are from the film itself), the cast and creative team fawn over each other and the fruits of their labors in extensive interviews, and quotes from reviews conveniently ignore the critics' less complimentary statements. Like many pop-culture tie-in guides, this is pure fluff, but the popularity of the source material makes it fluff worth considering.—Christi Voth, Parker Library, CO

Gr 4–6—This book does an apt job of showing the evolution of the samurai class, discussing the different weapons and armor used by the warriors, and explaining specific battles. Individual samurai are also profiled. Miyamoto Musashi was a great swordsman, and also an unusual character. He rarely bathed but could cut a grain of rice on a man's forehead without breaking the man's skin. Tomoe Gozen was a rare female samurai. One tragic story tells of an eight-year-old emperor who was drowned by his grandmother in 1185 to avoid capture in the Battle of Dan no Ura. The writing is engaging and clear. Abundant, colorful illustrations add interest to the text. Adam Woog's A Samurai Warrior (Gale, 2005) is a more seriously toned, in-depth look at the samurai world in general. With its action-packed cover, brief biographies of actual fighters, and glimpses into ancient times, Real Samurai should find an appreciative audience among browsers, but its lack of documentation stymies its usefulness for reports.—Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 4–6—Each of these thematic cookbooks is intended to teach children the basics. Young chefs are urged to ask permission before they cook, be organized, work safely, and be neat. There are also useful discussions of measurements, kitchen tools, terminology, ingredients, and an "Allergy Alert." The general instruction pages and the eight or so recipes that follow are written in clear, informal prose and illustrated with bright, sharp color photographs. The bindings and covers have a glossy finish for easy cleanup. Some dishes are simple and could easily be made by the target audience without much adult assistance. Others are more involved. Icons in the text suggest when help may be needed. The finished dishes are, if not spectacular, at least tasty. All of the ingredients are easily obtainable. A few of the recipes, especially those in Cool Foods, are quite high in fat (e.g., the one for enchiladas calls for five cups of grated Cheddar cheese). Bobbie Kalman's Lunch Munch and Breakfast Blast (both Crabtree, 2003) have more health-conscious recipes. Although Wagner's books are a bit pricey for the number of recipes they contain, they offer a well-rounded (albeit repetitious), kid-friendly introduction to basic cooking.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 5–8—These titles begin with a definition of energy, describe its different forms and sources, and explain the problems with many of those sources. The author develops the focus of each book by discussing the specific energy source in terms of the technologies of harnessing it, its historical uses, its applications, and its limitations and problems. The first book presents a range of historical uses of the various forms of biomass, from charcoal smelters in ancient Egypt to ethanol-fueled lanterns in the 19th century and gasifiers during World War II. Vivid color photographs with informative captions extend the texts, showing diverse people and applications. In Sun, for example, the illustrations run the gamut from a woman in the Himalayas using a solar panel to heat her home to a modern office building with an entire wall covered in solar panels that run its computers, lights, and other equipment during the day. The books are mostly accurate, but the energy requirements of different appliances are given in terms of watts rather than watt hours/year, which would give a more realistic picture of the energy a given item uses. Overall, these volumes are good sources of information for researchers. As a set they provide a rounded picture of alternative sources of energy.—Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL

Gr 5–8—Tag along on a rotten day as a body copes with sneezing, getting cut, being stung by a bee, and vomiting, as well as performing more mundane actions such as urinating, tapping into its melanin supply, acting reflexively, and sweating. Readers are invited to follow a "Nanocam" (think the 1966 sci-fi film The Fantastic Voyage) to witness such delights as the eruption of a pimple. Dramatic color graphics, both large and small, are accompanied by a multitude of informative captions. Researchers who find the information on the busy pages hard to grasp can pop in the accompanying CD-ROM and catch a ride up the esophagus on a wave of vomit. An extensive glossary guides readers through some unfamiliar territory in this vivid look at some of the workings of the human body as it reacts to internal and external stimuli. Eye-catching, highly pictorial, informative, and with a megadose of ick! factor.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 5–7—The 2001 discovery of a fossilized dinosaur skeleton in Montana's Hell Creek Formation posed several questions: What kind of dinosaur was it? How did it die? How much of the skeleton remained? And, how could it be disinterred from about 15 feet of rock overburden? Williams carefully reports the entire event, from discovery through excavation and preparation to exhibition at the Burpee Museum of Natural History in Rockford, IL. Small color photos and artwork, simple diagrams, and a map help readers to visualize the complex process. A gentle paleontologic procedural, Jane holds a middle ground between T. V. Padma's simpler The Albertosaurus Mystery (Bearport, 2006) and Pat Relf's handsome (but more complex) A Dinosaur Named Sue (Scholastic, 2000). An enjoyable expedition for budding paleontologists.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 5–7—Readers follow such disparate entities as a loggerhead sea turtle, a nuclear submarine, and a sailboat crew seeking scientific sightings of North Atlantic right whales as Young explores the concept of navigation. Of course, present-day GPS systems can tell humans where they are within a whisker, but in pre-satellite history people had to use the sun, stars, moon, and sea-sturdy clocks to determine their position on our watery planet. Larded with photos, diagrams, and maps, the book also includes small round, colorful information "globules" that bob around the pages like the glass balls once used to float fishing nets, and a "classroom" of tuna (too few for a "school") posing pertinent and/or amusing asides. Deceptively simple in appearance, the informative text can push some intense mental activity for those attempting to master the complexities of magnetic and acoustical influences on animal navigation, the determination of latitude and longitude in pre-GPS days, the difficulties of navigating under polar ice when all directions may be south, and the oddities of "vertical" navigation. Appended are some pages strewn with adult and juvenile titles for further investigation, a short list of pertinent videos/DVDs, and a long list of accessible Web sites (all in very small print and hard to decipher against their "watery" and "sandy" backgrounds. What with sharks and container ships thrown into the mix, this is a colorful look at a subject not often thought about, but one that many will find fascinating when they do.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY