Grades 5 & Up

Gr 4–7—In 1584 Plymouth, 11-year-old Andrew has heard his teacher tell tales of the riches and adventure to be found in the New World. When his father, a childhood friend of Walter Raleigh, calls in a favor, Raleigh agrees to take Andrew on as a page. Filled with excitement, the boy travels to London to reside at Durham House, where he will learn about court life. His training is not limited to the gentlemanly arts, however: as Raleigh grows to trust him more, he involves Andrew in various intrigues to obtain the most recent and thorough maps of the New World and to convince Queen Elizabeth I that England cannot afford to leave the territory to the Spanish. Almost a year later, Andrew is sailing toward America as secretary to Thomas Harriot, the mathematician and astronomer who manages Raleigh's accounts. The months that he spends in Virginia are full of adventure and discovery. Armstrong realistically portrays the bigotry of the times, not only in the way that many of the explorers demean the Native Americans, but also in the intolerance toward Catholicism in England and toward Protestantism in Spain. Armstrong's meticulous research, combined with Jessell's lively black-and-white illustrations, bring to life the people who shaped our nation's earliest history. Pair this with Elise Carbone's Blood on the River: James Town 1607 (Viking, 2006): both books will have adventure lovers on the edge of their seats, and they'll realize that America's history is anything but boring.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 9 Up—Frank Marder is a small-town high school senior who killed two people and injured his own spinal cord while driving drunk. Paralyzed from the neck down, he considers himself simply a head. Someone has set up a Web site where people in town discuss the accident and what they think of Frank. Most people hate him, feeling that he should be in jail for murder. (A judge said that his paralysis was punishment enough.) Only one person, posting anonymously, seems to be on his side. Over the course of the novel, the teen begins to learn how to deal with his new life and how people now perceive him. Like Frank, the book is dark and often angry. Written in a true-to-life bitter young man's voice, it tackles hard truths about taking chances, being irresponsible, and the possible consequences of driving after drinking. The author writes frankly about the physical issues surrounding paralysis. Frank thinks about sex and his body in coarse, blunt language. He is not a likable character—he did not love his girlfriend and he thinks little of his parents and friends—but his situation will evoke empathy in readers. The plot moves quickly, and in the eight weeks following his release from the hospital, the young man gains some perspective and speaks publicly about his life. There is a twist that readers may spot from a mile away, but the conclusion is satisfying and thought-provoking.—Geri Diorio, The Ridgefield Library, CT

Gr 7 Up—High school senior Clay Jensen receives seven audiotapes in the mail. They contain the story of why Hannah Baker, a girl he adored, committed suicide. Each side is devoted to a person in her life and a reason for her death. Clay also has a map of places featured on the recordings. He spends a torturous night listening and wandering, unearthing the depth and causes of Hannah's unhappiness. His torment is private—how did he hurt a girl he treasured from afar—and empathic—her hurts and betrayals tear him apart. Clay's pain is palpable and exquisitely drawn in gripping, casually poetic prose. The complex and soulful characters expose astoundingly rich and singularly teenage inner lives, with emotions as raw as cut wrists. The mood is more serious than somber, and Clay's thoughtful synthesis of Hannah's increasingly explosive narrative saves the novel from melodrama. In fact, Hannah's and Clay's narratives are woven together so seamlessly that the characters appear to converse naturally from opposite sides of mortality. Compounded, the tapes build the plot in increasingly tense increments—Hannah's story is a freight train of despair and suspense that picks up speed as it moves to her final undoing. Like the protagonist in John Green's Looking for Alaska (Dutton, 2005), Hannah is an animate ghost; Clay's bereaved voice bears witness to her tragedy. The episodic structure is nicely suited to reluctant readers, but the breakneck pace and dizzying emotion are the true source of this novel's irresistible readability at all levels.—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

Gr 3–6—Academically brilliant but emotionally stunted nine-year-old Lenny tends to drive people crazy. No one knows how to deal with him. That begins to change when he starts seeing Muriel, the school therapist. An after-school assignment he receives from the principal for inappropriate behavior leads to a serendipitous encounter with a boy named Vander James. Van is chronically ill, but it doesn't stop him and Lenny from enjoying shared interests and becoming best friends. As Lenny continues to work with Muriel and learns more about Van's leukemia, he begins to mature, identifying his emotions and coming to terms with them. Lenny's progress is not only poignant, but it also has carefully crafted underpinnings that add depth and richness. The boys build towers, an effective metaphor for the stretching and growth going on in Lenny's life. Subtle foreshadowing is sprinkled throughout: “ ' Not all acorns grow into big trees,’ said Muriel. 'That's just the way of life.’ ” Pitch-perfect dialogue and descriptions of every-kid pleasures such as negotiating a slippery slide make this book enjoyable on multiple levels. The cover is odd and off-putting, but don't let that keep readers away. This novel is just right for booktalking and for giving children the opportunity to develop empathy right along with Lenny. A small gem not to be missed.—Faith Brautigam, Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin, IL

Gr 4–7—A delightfully clever mystery. Winston Breen loves puzzles and finds them everywhere, including in the antique box he gives his younger sister, Katie, on her birthday. The siblings discover that it has a false bottom containing wooden strips with words and single letters on them. When two somewhat sinister strangers with their own wooden strips arrive looking for Winston, the boy realizes that the only way to crack the mystery is to pool their clues. A group that includes the town librarian, a giant ex-policeman, a young reporter, the two strangers, Winston, and Katie faces dangerous threats, mistrust, decades-old clues, and in-fighting as they set out on what turns out to be a treasure hunt. There is plenty of suspense to engage readers, who are sure to enjoy tackling the brainteasers and word games along the way. (A note sends readers to a Web site to download printable versions of the puzzles. Answers are included at the end of the book.) Recommend this to fans of Ellen Raskin's The Westing Game (Puffin, 1992) and Blue Balliett's Chasing Vermeer (2004) and The Wright 3 (2006, both Scholastic).—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 9 Up—An unnamed, gay Goth enthusiast and his friend Trace spend their time frequenting thrift shops, attending random funerals, and playing with ouija boards. On the way home from one of their jaunts, the protagonist finds himself haunted by a jock-ish ghost dressed in 1950s regalia. At first, he is charmed, intrigued, and turned on, but when the ghost, Josh, turns out to be a jealous maniac bent on keeping him forever, the teen discovers that he needs to ditch the demon—and fast—before it's too late. The action kicks off with a blast in this slim, densely packed volume and keeps chugging forward until the bitter end. Berman has created a creepy, kitschy, lusty atmosphere—particularly when the narrator's abilities to tap into a ghost's past are harnessed—that should appeal to mature horror fans. That said, the narrative is weakened by more telling than showing, especially when the more gripping sequences are stalled by explanation rather than rapid-fire action. All the same, gay teen readers who've been hankering for a horror story all their own will be thrilled with all of the creeps, crawls, chills, and eyeliner that Berman has to offer.—Hillias J. Martin, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Cody LeBeau would like to see himself as a powerful ninja rather than a wimpy Abenaki teenager. He fantasizes about overpowering the bullies at his new high school, something he is unable to do outside his daydreams. The teen is hopeful that his dreams will be realized when his mysterious Uncle John appears to compete in a martial-arts event. Instead, he teaches his nephew…The Way. Though not what he expected, Cody begins to feel differently about himself, learning to deflect rather than engage the bullies. When some of his fellow "losers" decide to seek revenge in a Columbine-like massacre, Cody steps in to thwart their plans, not as a ninja hero, but as a whistle-blower. This story may appeal to fans of tae kwon do or karate. However, Bruchac's prose is heavy-handed, giving Cody unrealistic thoughts like "Fists of impotent fury clenched at my sides…" in the heat of the moment. Likewise, the boy's "loser" attitude is overplayed; there's more told than shown. The author seems more comfortable developing Uncle John's character but, unfortunately, the man comes across as didactic rather than wise. The Native American details that flavor most of Bruchac's other works appear stereotypical in this setting. The climactic Columbine subplot seems contrived; students will chafe under this artificial presentation of themselves.—H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL

Gr 10 Up—Cameron's first young adult novel is a bildungsroman, a brief and situational portrait of 18-year-old James Sveck, a New York loner who dreams of bypassing college and settling down, solo, in the Midwest. James knows he's different: he doesn't really like people, especially those his age, and, following what he calls a "disastrous" experience at a national student seminar, concludes that he is better off alone. His sole attempt at connection reflects his reluctance and fear to relate to others and, ironically, it is this effort to explain and maintain his distance from others that is at the heart of his appeal. When he discovers a coworker's profile on a gay dating site, James, out of boredom, crafts one of his own to match what he believes the man wants. The ruse works too well and he succeeds in attracting the man's attention as well as his anger at being manipulated. The first-person narrative alternates between the present—the fleeting days of summer—and the near past as, encouraged by his therapist, the teen recalls his experience at the student seminar. Like Stephen Chbosky's The Perks of Being a Wallflower (MTV, 1999), Cameron's understated novel takes the intellectual antihero as its subject. Where readers are drawn to Chbosky's incongruously innocent and wise narrator, it may be more difficult to identify with James, whose linguistic sophistication may hold them at a distance and whose outlook is not as optimistic as Charlie's and is distinctly more cerebral.—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 4–6—When 12-year-old Rosie Goldglitt's father leaves the family, he gives her a diary so she can document her feelings about the divorce. But she's more interested in writing about kissing. However, since she doesn't have much personal experience, she ends up writing about lip-gloss shopping, school projects, her mom's love life, and, of course, her crush on Robbie Romano. Caseley's characters are offbeat but familiar, and the dialogue between the kids and their parents is spot-on. Over the course of the novel, Rosie faces gossip, B.O., parental arguments, and a trip to the principal's office with surprising (and possibly unrealistic) resilience. She also widens her circle of friends to include the only girl on the school wrestling team—without losing any of her old chums. The final matchmaking scheme is a little predictable, but the book is notable for what it leaves unresolved. Caseley wisely chooses not to tie up the loose ends of the divorce and the tough decisions the family has to make about Rosie's aging grandfather. This book covers territory that's already been mined by the likes of Phyllis Reynolds Naylor and Judy Blume, but the titillating title is sure to grab the attention of lip-gloss-popping tweens.—Emily R. Brown, Providence Public Library, RI

Gr 6–9—Fantasy fiction with African-American protagonists is hard enough to come by, so it's a joy to discover a book that fills the need with flair. Louis Proof is racing RC cars in an underground amusement park when he glimpses a pair of ethereal beings. Soon after, he falls into a coma and awakens three months later to a world turned upside down. Surreal events have become commonplace, several parents and teachers are now unusually permissive, and the teen has been granted phenomenal powers. Eventually a stranger named Timothy explains that Louis is about to become a CLE—"a Celestial-like Entity." He has been recruited for an Earthbound extension of the eternal conflict between two races at the center of the universe: the virtuous iLone and the evil eNoli. Louis needs to prevent an escaped eNoli named Galonious from "liberating" humanity from the effects of empathy and conscience. While Galonious inspires a great deal of unsettling behavior (Louis's best friend steals pornography; physical abuse, murder, and suicide are also mentioned), things never get too dark, and the author forgoes a traditional "black-and-white" approach to the conflict by examining the complex interplay of the positive and negative forces in the characters' lives. The narration has the free-flowing, engrossing rhythm of oral storytelling, punctuated by poetic interludes that comment (sometimes ironically) on the action. A worthy addition to modern-age magic tales such as Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series (Hyperion/Miramax).—Christi Voth Esterle, Parker Library, CO

Gr 7 Up—When she is blackmailed into backpacking across Southeast Asia with a grandmother she barely knows, 16-year-old Vassar Spore is reluctant to disrupt a summer devoted to furthering her life plan-to become class valedictorian and win a Pulitzer Prize. The overachieving teen, named for the college she hopes to attend, overhears her parents arguing with Grandma Gerd about a "Big Secret" and is shocked that they've agreed to send her off to the jungles of Malaysia. Vassar arrives at the Golden Lotus guesthouse with a mountain of luggage and a plan to write a novel about the trip for her AAP (Advanced Advanced) English class. As the setting shifts, so does the story's tone, from Vassar's stilted home life and stuffy parents to a vividly described environment and array of colorful characters focusing on her bohemian artist grandmother and a comical Malaysian bodyguard, Hanks, whose Elvis haircut and cowboy drawl both irritate and captivate his charge. Vassar begins chronicling the travel adventures of Sarah, her fictional alter ego, as the trio trek through cities and the lush and humid jungles of Cambodia and Laos while Grandma Gerd offers cryptic hints about the mysterious family secret. Committing a lion's share of cultural faux pas, Vassar accidentally angers one tribal family and is imprisoned by opium-smoking animists. In a climactic episode, she escapes the bamboo dungeon and blindly heads down a dangerously steep jungle mountain. Suspenseful and wonderfully detailed, the well-crafted story maintains its page-turning pace while adding small doses of cultural insight and humor.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 6–9—A funny, sometimes poignant novel set in the late 1970s. Eleven-year-old Don, a loner, gains local fame when he wins a contest judging chickens based on their wing shape, comb texture, and other exhibition standards. His poultry skills bring him new friends and the first bit of self-confidence he's ever had, but also set him up for surprises and disappointments and accelerate his parents' marital troubles. At the same time, he uncovers hidden truths about his older sister, who supposedly died when he was a baby. Don's matter-of-fact narrative often jumps from one topic to another, while the tone remains consistent whether he's relating humorous conversations with his imaginary brother or sad revelations about his mother's neglect. His town of Horse Island, LA, is a delightfully quirky place in which a grocery store also sells furniture, nearly everyone has alliterative names, and chicken knowledge turns a kid into a celebrity. There aren't many jokes in this novel, but it's funny throughout, and Don is interesting and likable. At the same time, it's a perceptive family story. The mother's antics are wild and the father's passivity is frustrating, but they still ring true, especially in the ways they affect Don. His transformation into a kid who can make a tough decision about his future develops subtly but convincingly. With strong characters, interesting concepts, and a deft comedic touch, this novel should appeal to fans of Louis Sachar and Jack Gantos.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 6–9—Fourteen-year-old T.J., upset at her family's move from farm to city, finds an unlikely friend in 6-inch-high, 16-year-old Elizabeth, who emerges from T.J.'s wall late one night with an attitude too large for her frame. The two become friends, despite Elizabeth's self-confident punked-out style and T.J.'s timid conformism, and set off to meet an author who might be able to tell them more about Elizabeth's kind, the "Littles." When the two are separated, they embark on roughly parallel adventures. The narrative suddenly switches from a third-person telling to Elizabeth's first-person account, which is a bit jarring, but as the characters have very distinct personalities, the change in voice is a successful device for handling the suspense and pacing of their separate but interlinked adventures (T.J.'s part of the tale continues in third person). Because the book lacks a genuine sense of mystery and/or danger in the uncovering of a magical world hidden in the midst of our own, the emphasis falls more upon the differences in the girls and their personal growth. Side characters conveniently come into play to further the action. Although Steve Augarde's The Various (Random, 2004) is far more adept at handling a similar story, De Lint's book is ultimately a satisfying read. An additional purchase for fantasy fans.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library

Gr 6–8—Sam Connor, 14, can barely remember his grandfather. When his father died 10 years earlier, the once-loving and involved man simply walked away from the grave site, severing contact with Sam and his mother. Now, however, the teen has received a letter from him, seeking reconciliation and sending him on a somewhat mystical scavenger hunt for symbolic items—a cradle, an antique watch—that will rebuild their connection. Sam deals with this strange new development and his ambivalent feelings about forgiving his grandfather in the rather idiosyncratic way he's come to cope with stress: sitting on the roofs of neighborhood buildings with his friend Indira and leaving behind his "tag," a small spray-painted symbol of the planet Uranus. Add Sumerian proverbs to the totemic heirlooms and the astrological import of the tag and Denman's symbolism tends toward the esoteric and heavy-handed. Much of the action seems as if it would strain both the credulity and patience of struggling and reluctant middle school readers toward whom the book is aimed. Character development is also a weak point; Sam's grandfather remains a dim and distant figure throughout, and even the teen himself is never fully fleshed out.—Meredith Robbins, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School, New York City

Gr 7–10—In this sequel to The Ropemaker (Delacorte, 2001), Dickinson's well-constructed fantasy world is rejoined 20 generations into the future. The magical Ropemaker is now trapped in a parallel universe, unable to prevent the evil Watchers from retaking control of the Empire. Angel's prologue is identical to the epilogue of the earlier book: Maja, Saranja, and Ribek set off to find the Ropemaker so that he can protect their Valley. Along the way they learn more about the history of the mysterious man. Ultimately, what makes Angel compelling are the relationships among the main characters, particularly Maja's love for the much-older Ribek. As with Ropemaker, the lack of a map makes the saga somewhat difficult to follow, and, as sometimes happens with fantasies of this type, the story's unfurling over a period of long months spent traveling on horseback makes the pace drag a bit. Still, patient readers, especially those who enjoyed the earlier book, and fans of Hilari Bell's "Farsala" trilogy (S & S) will find much to like in this character-driven epic fantasy.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 9 Up—While other 16-year-olds are thinking about getting their driver's license or who will ask them to the school dance, terminally ill Tessa is busy making a list of 10 things she wants to do before she dies. As Tessa begins to tackle her list, she learns a great deal about those around her and even more about who she is and what she wants from the life she has left. The issue of dealing with a serious illness and how it affects everyone involved, from family and friends to visiting nurses, is deftly handled and rings true. Unfortunately, much of the rest of the story does not feel as authentic, including the romance between Tessa and her neighbor, Adam, which does not begin evolving until more than halfway through the book and seems like an unnecessary afterthought. On top of that, the author piles on a teen pregnancy (Tessa's best friend) and Adam's mother's depression. The manipulation of readers' emotions is obvious as the author goes from one sobbing moment to the next, but fans of Lurlene McDaniel's books are sure to overlook these flaws.—Shari Fesko, Southfield Public Library, MI

Gr 6–9—Doyle's new novel is told in chapters that alternate between a young woman's reunion with the mother who left years ago and a family's adventure holiday in Finland. After Rosemary leaves Frank and their daughter, Gráinne, Frank marries Sandra and they have two sons, Johnny and Tom. All goes well until Gráinne becomes a moody, surly, noncompliant teenager who feels that she does not belong anywhere. Her mother decides to return to Dublin to see her. Gráinne has been waiting most of her life for this to happen—but will it heal or hurt? Sandra uses this opportunity to take the boys, who are 12 and 10, on a husky safari in Lapland. The short chapters about the mother and daughter reunion perfectly capture Gráinne's angst and her slow willingness to include her mother in her life. The Christmas vacation becomes a story of survival when Sandra's dogsled, with a rogue dog in charge, gets lost in the vast frozen north. The brothers take off after her, using some skills they have learned in their short time in the wilderness and finding themselves forced to cooperate with one another. Doyle is spot-on in his depiction of a blended family, with sibling rivalry, a rebellious teenager, and parents trying their best. The drama and adventure are leavened by generous helpings of Doyle's characteristic charm, laugh-out-loud humor, and wonderful way with words. Sure to appeal to kids who like adventure tales and to those who enjoy family stories.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 8 Up—In The Battle of Jericho (S & S, 2003), Josh died as a result of a hazing ritual. Now, his girlfriend and his cousin Jericho are dealing with his sudden death. For November, it also means facing the consequences of having had sex with Josh the night before he died and learning that she is pregnant. Draper gives an accurate and sympathetic portrayal of urban teens at a crossroad. There are no false notes in these strong male and female characters. Readers will care about them and appreciate the straightforward way that the author presents the issues they face, from the everyday struggles of cafeteria confrontations to the dire situation of teenage pregnancy. Draper clearly shows, through November, the pros and cons of having a baby while still in school; the loss of freedom and a changing future; and, finally, acceptance and a deep love for a child. Another strong element of the story is the supportive adults who surround the teens. While still in the background, the parents and teachers can be counted on when they are needed. There are no easy answers and there's no pat ending; what comes through is that life plans can change in an instant and it is how we react to these changes that makes us who we are and who we become. Urban teens often ask, "Where are the books about us, Miss?" and with this novel Draper has once again given them something meaty and meaningful to read.—Anne Rouyer, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Sadima grows up on a farm with only her brooding father and brother, Micah, for guidance. She can hear the thoughts and feelings of animals and meets Franklin, who believes in and encourages her. Several years later her father dies, and Sadima travels to the far city of Limòri to find Franklin. He is the friend and property of Somiss, a noble in self-imposed exile, who seeks to find the old magic that has been outlawed and disappeared from the land. Both men believe that conditions will be better for the people with the return of magic and the downfall of the king. Many years later, Hahp's father, a rich merchant, leaves him at the magic academy run by mysterious and cruel Somiss. The boys are kept filthy and starving until a few master the technique of creating food from a magical stone and learn other lessons. Hahp vows to live through the training in order to seek revenge on his father and to destroy the academy. This fantasy novel is the first of a planned trilogy and follows two separate time lines using alternating chapters. Both histories are cut short at crucial points until a sequel can finish them. The characters are well developed, but the sequels will have to provide more action to fill out the story.—Corinda J. Humphrey, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 9 Up—A summer training camp for teen sailors goes awry at the start, when the three counselors quit in protest of the ship's vindictive, drunken captain. It isn't long afterward that the campers find him in his quarters, a victim of suicide. Alone on the Dreadnought, the eight novices are reluctant to end their trip prematurely and decide to bury the man at sea and stay on the ship for the remaining 68 days of summer in New England's coastal waters. Arthur, a 17-year-old rich kid, proclaims himself captain, delegating jobs and putting his mates through safety drills, but is frequently challenged by tough, foul-mouthed Crystal and goof-off Logan, who abuses the ship's alcohol cache. When supplies run out, the "booty pirates" travel from harbor to harbor, stealing lobsters from traps and raiding unoccupied luxury yachts. Shipmates also include Joy, the bible-toting cook; mild-mannered BillFi; brawny Jesse; free-spirited Dawn; and pampered Marietta, who ultimately leaves the ship in a jealous rage, adding to the group's worry about being turned in to the authorities. The Dreadnought encounters a ghost ship, chases after a pirate's treasure, rescues a netted whale, and saves some shipwrecked sailors before the teens "face the music." Readers may overlook the stereotyped characters and far-fetched plot for the realistic setting, technical sailing elements, and teen dynamics, but it's all pretty unbelievable.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 8 Up—Flinn is known for her gritty novels that openly address serious issues such as peer pressure and domestic abuse. This spin-off of "Beauty and the Beast" is no exception. Kyle Kingsbury is good looking, rich, a ladies man, and one of the most popular students at Tuttle High School. He's the type who everyone wants to be or be around. However, while he might be beautiful on the outside, he is selfish, arrogant, and cruel on the inside. Kendra, an unattractive and unpopular girl who Kyle never noticed before, refers to his behavior as "beastly." To get even with her for that remark, he publicly humiliates her at the school dance, sealing his fate. Later that night, Kendra reveals to Kyle that she is a witch, and that she is going to teach him the most important lesson of his life. The author explores important values through the depiction of Kyle and the people who are there for him (and those who are not) after his transformation. The story is well written and grips readers right from the beginning with an online chat session with Kyle/Beast and other fairy-tale characters. And, since it's told from the Beast's point of view, it will appeal to boys who otherwise might not pick it up. Beastly has romance, true love, tragic circumstances, magic, action adventure, and hope. It's a must-read for all fairy-tale fans, and has a knockout cover to boot.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

Gr 9 Up—In this sequel to Hoops of Steel (Flux, 2007), Jackson O'Connell has been drifting since his parents' divorce. He is about to graduate from high school and has no definite plans for the future. He has been living with his friend Gerry's grandmother, and she has just died; his Princeton-bound girlfriend is putting the pressure on him to set some goals. When the offer to spend the summer working at the local boatyard and learning to sail comes his way, he decides that this is as good an opportunity as any. The lessons learned from crusty old Conrad move Jackson from chasing unattainable dreams of playing for the NBA to looking at his life realistically. Through the rigors of sailing, he begins to mature and to learn where his real interests are, and he begins to formulate a plan. Running with the Wind provides a powerful and honest approach to coping with life's difficulties. Many teens will relate to Jackson's struggles with self-doubt and the choices he needs to make. The book teaches a powerful lesson on the importance of self-reliance and finding one's dreams. An added bonus is the literary quote at the beginning of each chapter, each one relating to sailing or to the sea, reflecting Granny's and Gerry's love of literature.—Sharon Morrison, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Durant, OK

Gr 9 Up—Because of the scar on her face, BJ has always been a victim of ridicule and harassment. Shunned until the third grade, she is befriended by Alex, who becomes her best friend for the next eight years. Alternating between BJ's narration and Alex's journal, written in verse, Fullerton establishes the emotional connection between the two high schoolers while also creating a fast-paced plot that will lure teens, particularly reluctant readers. BJ's status as the social outcast starts to change when two of the most popular girls in school suddenly take an interest in her. By taking advantage of her insecurities about her relationship with Alex, they convince her to steal his journal. Going against her better instincts, BJ reads it. Shocked to learn that he is gay, she loses track of the book, and its contents quickly become public knowledge throughout the entire student body. At the same time, the questionable reason behind BJ's adoption into the popular girls' clique is revealed and she slips into an immediate depression. The novel climaxes as she attempts to vindicate herself only moments before Alex is attacked and killed by a mob of angry homophobes. While the plot and characters are somewhat exaggerated, the lessons about friendship and betrayal will resonate with many teens. Readers looking for a more realistic portrayal of struggles associated with coming out and sexual orientation should take a look at Kathe Koja's Talk (Farrar, 2005).—Lynn Rashid, Marriots Ridge High School, Marriotsville, MD

Gr 3–6—Igraine, the heroine of this medieval tale, wants something different from life. Her parents and her brother are magicians, and she considers their work "dreadfully boring." Instead, she longs to be a brave knight who has adventures and wins tournaments. When Osmund the Greedy and his army arrive at the gates of her ancestral castle, she gets a chance to prove herself. Her parents have given her a suit of magical armor for her 12th birthday but then a few complications arise that interfere with her grand plans. These challenges start when her parents make a magical error that turns them into unmagical pigs. Now Igraine must find a giant willing to give up his hair to save them. Along the way she must also help a sorrowful knight and rescue a gentle giant from hunters. Although her courage is challenged, Igraine is a resourceful heroine whose feisty demeanor will have readers rooting for her success. Funke's whimsical pen-and-ink illustrations are a good match for this spirited tale. The story has many twists and turns and an engaging heroine who rises to the challenge. Readers will eagerly join her on her quest, and younger children will enjoy an exciting read-aloud as this valiant knight saves the day.—Carole Phillips, Greenacres Elementary School, Scarsdale, NY

Gr 8 Up—At 16, Joey Harker has just realized that he can literally walk into alternate realities. He quickly discovers that versions of himself from other worlds can also live on a secret base known as InterWorld. From here, an army of Joeys, of all different ages and characteristics, battle two evil groups bent on ruling all the earths in the Altiverse. The HEX uses magic, the Binary relies on science, while the Joeys fight to maintain the naturally occurring balance of these forces. These dueling factions make for a unique representation of good and evil, and the book's setting is equally imaginative. The "In-Between," a colorful, chaotic realm where Picassoesque objects morph in and out of existence, is described with vivid graphic imagery. The explanations of the In-Between and other dimensions gradually make sense to readers, as they do to Joey, who is at first realistically skeptical. Packed with harrowing chase scenes through these fascinating realms, the plot moves quickly from the initial explanations to Joey's training on InterWorld, to his climactic confrontation with Lord Dogknife, the grotesque leader of the HEX. With his sarcastic sense of humor and superhuman abilities, Joey is a hero whom teens, even reluctant readers, will cheer for.—Emily Rodriguez, Alachua County Library District, Gainesville, FL

Gr 5–8—Strangers at first, 14-year-old Kip and 12-year-old Annie relate in alternating voices how they are drawn together in a bizarre drama involving Annie's 13-year-old sister, Grace. Playing a family tracking game of hide-and-seek on Point Nepean beach, Australia, Grace stops to rescue an injured penguin as a severe storm approaches. Annie protests and reaches for Grace as she slips off a rock cliff and vanishes into the roiling water. Meanwhile Kip, on another part of the beach, witnesses a boy jump out of a moving car, run past him, and vanish in the darkening turbulence. The car does not stop or turn around. The plot becomes more convoluted as Kip finds a backpack (Grace's) in the water and seeks shelter from the storm in the beach house of an aging alcoholic rock star. As events coalesce, Kip becomes a suspect in Grace's disappearance, yet redeems himself somewhat when he rescues the mysterious boy from near drowning. Readers of all abilities will appreciate the short, descriptive chapters; teachers and librarians will value the possibilities for discussion in this unusual mystery that's sure to prompt readers to examine the consequences of their choices.—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 10 Up—Clay, a 17-year-old medical technician, loves working at the hospital, mopping blood off the floors and helping patients. Then he finds his normally straight-laced friend Joey intoxicated and violent, and Joey is injured when Clay fights him off. This mysterious episode leaves Joey clinging to life in the intensive-care unit. Clay's mechanical, deliberate actions on the job used to help his messed-up life make sense and actually save lives. Now nothing makes sense: his sensible, valedictorian friend needs a respirator to breathe. He must put the pieces of Joey's night together to try to both save his friend and clear himself of blame. Although Clay seems uncertain about who gave Joey PCP, most teens will identify the culprit early on. Fans of hospital TV dramas will immediately jump into this frantic story that is spattered with bodily fluids and drugs. Harazin's painfully precise writing dissects the hospital's stingingly sterile, evenhanded distribution of life and death, as well as Clay's disjointed life, which is stunted by small rations of parental care and money. It is Joey's tenuous grip on life, and Clay's deep bond with him, that will keep readers' hearts racing.—Shelley Huntington, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—Sparrow Delaney, 15, lives in Lily Dale, NY, a town populated with mediums who generate income by "serving Spirit," or hosting séances. Her mother, grandmother, and six sisters are all professional channelers of the other realm. Sparrow has had the ability to see, smell, hear, and communicate with ghosts since she was five, but, much to her family's chagrin, she denies these talents. Embarrassed by her town, dubbed "Spookyville" by outsiders, the girl attends school a few miles away. When her history-project partner, moody and handsome Jack, wants to research Lily Dale, Sparrow hides her knowledge of the place. Then she begins to be haunted by a teenage ghost named Luke, who happens to be Jack's missing brother. Luke refuses to be ignored and insists on using Sparrow to send messages to the living. On the first anniversary of his disappearance, his family decides to hold a televised séance in Lily Dale. Despite her refusal to embrace her "gift," Sparrow reveals Luke's messages, resulting in varied emotions from his parents and the townspeople. Readers will enjoy this combination of mystery, adventure, and romance, with enticing twists and turns. Harper seems to have studied Spiritualism and the real town of Lily Dale rather well, creating an accurate atmosphere. The ending, although somewhat sappy, is touching and effective.—Marie C. Hansen, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—These 15 consistently well-written tales are divided among those set in the past, mainly in the form of Irish folkways; the present, mostly set in the U.S.; and the hereafter. In "Fall," a 13-year-old girl, long abandoned by her mother, still mourns her twin sister's death 13 years earlier. She knows that the stuffed crow in the attic is really alive and longs to fling it, and herself, out a window so they'll be free and she'll be reunited with her sibling. The affecting "Secret Trees" features Ches, 13, who's recovering from a car crash involving him and his unstable mother. He focuses on his schoolwork and a science project on the nearby trees, rather than dealing with his mother's breakdown. The stories are wide-ranging, from a ballad about a pair of highway robbers to a 21st-century boy worrying about his family's safety after a terrorist bombing, to the Devil, who's being tormented by a dog whose teeth have clamped onto his pants leg and won't let go. Teens who pick up this book anticipating horror may be disappointed, but those looking for thoughtful, finely crafted explorations of the things that haunt us will be richly rewarded. Endnotes explain the basis for each compelling tale.—Sharon Rawlins, The New Jersey State Library, Trenton

Gr 8 Up—Max Whooten, 16, feels that his life is a series of unending frustrations. A friend is lost in the haze of a mental breakdown; Leila, the girl he has a crush on, has been his friend since childhood; and his parents and sister are nothing more than a bunch of annoying neurotics. He's angry, feeling down in the dumps, and expecting that things will get worse. When the aged family cat, Crappy, dies, Max journeys upstate from his Manhattan home to give the frozen animal its final resting place. Hite deftly uses the cat's death to move the protagonist away from his stress-filled environment and deliver him to his New Age aunt Ginny, who lives near Woodstock. Caught between his attraction for Leila and the artistic girl whom he meets upstate, Max is trying hard to find the meaning of life through the exploration of relationships with friends and members of the opposite sex. The novel is made up of notebook entries that take readers through the teen's intensely stimulating emotional journey. This fast-paced coming-of-age story has wide appeal.—Caryl Soriano, New York Public Library

Gr 4–8—Becker Drane, a New Jersey middle schooler, was nine and hanging out in his favorite bookstore when he spotted a small box with a sign inviting him to "Apply Here for the Best Job in The World." On a lark, he filled out the odd application and forgot about it until eight months later, when a strange man told him that he had been accepted as a Candidate at the Institute for Fixing & Repair. At the IFR, Becker learned about The Seems, a place outside The World where things like Nature, Weather, Time, and Sleep are all manufactured. He proved to be an able student and now, at age 12, he's been promoted to Fixer, an operative called on to repair Malfunctions that arise. On his first Mission, Becker has to employ a variety of Tools and all the lessons he's learned in his attempt to fix the Glitch in the Department of Sleep, which is giving his brother, neighbors, and people everywhere insomnia. This is a rollicking tale, with great world-building and likable characters and a strong setup for further adventures. Unlike Garth Nix's conceptually similar "The Keys to the Kingdom" series (Scholastic), this story is upbeat and full of humor, seeming to draw a novel from David Wiesner's Sector 7 (Clarion, 1999) template. Dynamic full-page illustrations appear throughout.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 6–8—When 14-year-old Nate's family farm is burned by British troops, he seeks revenge by joining the Continental Army, accompanied by his dog, Rex. Traveling to join the troops, he meets James, a slave in his early 30s who has been temporarily released in order to join the revolutionaries. The two are welcomed and assigned by Lafayette to work as spies. James Armistead Lafayette, the slave in the novel, was a real person who gathered information while acting as British General Cornwallis's servant, and passed it to Lafayette. Most other details about his life are unknown. The novel includes a great deal of military action and expected violence. Nate pursues the British dragoon who did the most damage to his family throughout the book, intent on killing him. Many occurrences strain credibility. Rex has extraordinary tracking abilities, as well as strength, loyalty, and intelligence. Both Nate and James become extremely close to Lafayette in a short amount of time. James speaks in awkwardly written dialect, while Lafayette speaks English with French words frequently interspersed. The book effectively delivers military action, intrigue, and adventure, but does not provide a believable story or compelling characters.—Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA

Gr 5–8—Allie has never been a big believer in hauntings, but now she seems to run into spooks everywhere. She and her family have just moved into a run-down old house, and the 11-year-old figures that the writing covering the bedroom walls was left by squatters. However, even after the walls are painted, the writing returns—over and over again. When the "psychic investigators" whom her mother calls in aren't able to stop the repeated scrawls, Allie decides to take matters into her own hands. Researching the history of the property, she learns about Eglantine, an 18-year-old Victorian author who died of anorexia. Allie suspects that her ghost keeps rewriting her story, wanting it to be completed. In the second book, while on a school camping trip to the Australian gold fields, Allie encounters more ghosts—three-year old Eustace, a spectral hospital nurse, and a mysterious old prospector. Then two classmates disappear while exploring the mining ghost town. Allie wonders if the danger comes from the ghosts—or from something—or someone—else. These mildly suspenseful tales feature well-drawn settings, especially the historic Hill End gold fields. The dialogue is authentic, with considerable Australian slang and some minor crude language. The text includes middle-school body humor, as well as references to (offstage) underage alcohol use. (Adult characters drink to the hangover point.) Additional purchases where there is strong demand for supernatural fiction.—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Gr 8–10—The 14 stories in this collection are by established young adult authors, most of them well-known Canadians (Sarah Ellis, Marthe Jocelyn, Tim Wynne-Jones). They share a common theme—that life-changing event known as the "first time." First love, first crime, first dead body, first foray into adulthood—this anthology covers those and more. The inclusion of various genres, including science fiction, fantasy, historical fiction, and romance, will make the book appeal to a diverse audience. If readers are able to look past the rather youthful cover art, they will find inspiring, entertaining, and well-written stories. First Times could inspire students to write about happenings in their lives that were particularly memorable or life-altering.—Robyn Zaneski, New York Public Library

Gr 4–7—Ben Arnold, his father, and his older sister Ellie must bid farewell to their mother and baby sister, Alice, who are making their way back to Eidolon, the magical land described in The Secret Country (S & S, 2006). Saddened by their departure, Ben and his father are horrified to discover that Ellie has mistakenly crossed into Eidolon, too. The boy sets out to bring her back, only to learn that all manner of chaos has been let loose there. Ellie is captured by the evil Dodman, who threatens to torture the girl if her mother, Queen of Eidolon, does not submit to his will. Naturally, Ben must rescue his irritating sibling, and a host of magical folk—a centaur, a mermaid, dragons, and selkies, among others—join him in the battle against the malevolent creatures enlisted by the Dodman. A whimsical black-and-white drawing opens each chapter. While a continuing connection with the characters will enhance the experience for those who have read the earlier book, this sequel stands on its own.—Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WI

Gr 6 Up—In this sequel to The Faerie Path (HarperCollins, 2007), readers are reunited with Tania (aka Anita Palmer). The British teen has journeyed back from the Immortal Realm of Faerie with her true love, Edric, in her company. They have been asked by her father, King Oberon, to find Titania, his queen, who has been missing in the Mortal World for more than 500 years. Tania is still struggling with her dual identity as the child of mortal parents, whom she adores, and in Faerie, where she is a princess with six sisters. When the faerie world is threatened, the trouble spills into the Mortal World and Tania finds herself, Edric, and her faerie family in danger. She is beginning to remember her past lives and deaths. Can one 16-year-old girl find Titania, keep her sanity, and save both of her worlds? A story filled with love, magic, and hair-raising battles awaits readers in this second book in the trilogy.—June H. Keuhn, Corning East High School, NY

Gr 8 Up—Annabel and Esteban fall in love at first sight. She's a coddled, Anglo teen living on Long Island, NY, and he's an illegal alien who sometimes does construction work for her father. Their mutual attraction is powerful, sweet, and impossible. The bar's been set pretty high for retellings of Romeo and Juliet, and Kerr's book—weighed down with the freight of contemporary politics—is not entirely successful. An indication that the author has tried to cram too much material into too little space is the five-page letter from Esteban revealing multitudes about his background and his decision to join the U.S. Army, which Kerr saves for the final tenth of the book. And, if imagining Esteban's future military exploits doesn't fill readers with enough foreboding, on the final page, Annabel hears a radio newscaster reporting about a hurricane named Katrina that's expected to strike New Orleans the next day. Kerr's social commentary takes over her plot and characterization.—Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Gr 4–8—In his second adventure, Nate Fuller boards the ocean liner Lusitania and discovers that Harry Houdini and former president Teddy Roosevelt are also onboard. The voyage takes a dangerous twist when an assassination attempt is made on Roosevelt, and Houdini and Nate race against the clock to find the gunman before the ship docks in England. Lalicki successfully fleshes out each character while, at the same time, offering a plot-driven story. Roosevelt is particularly amusing with his larger-than-life antics, and the climactic ending is exciting. The author's passion for historical detail is clear—as evidenced by the extensive author's note—but the information occasionally bogs down the story. Nate's repeated flouting of authority becomes tiresome and unrealistic—the adults are useless at enforcing any rules. Readers may also feel dissatisfied that the details of the attempted assassination are left unclear—the motivation behind it isn't fully explained nor is the relationship between the assassin and his employer. That said, Houdini's wink-wink humor and guidance are amusing, and kids who love historical mysteries will probably enjoy this. Buy where Danger in the Dark (Farrar, 2006) is popular.—Laura Lutz, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—Sangeet, 15, is the daughter of an Indian father and American mother. Her suburban Philadelphia life is getting complicated. An aunt is living at her house, stealing her stuff and turning her family against her; her best friend isn't talking to her; a lost schedule book leads to plummeting grades; her parents think she is bulimic; and she has boy troubles galore. The teen's family life and struggles will resonate with readers of all backgrounds, and fans of Narinder Dhami's "Bindi Babes" books (Delacorte) will enjoy this more mature, American take on similar issues. Lamba puts the present, first-person narrative to good use throughout most of the book, but glosses over some of the actions and reactions readers might expect from this intimate view into the girl's life. Sang's efforts to prevent the complete alienation of her best friend seem inadequate, the parental fallout from her escapades is mentioned only in passing, and a visiting uncle provides a deus ex machina of an ending. Still, teens will enjoy the interesting cast of characters and the book will have broad appeal, leaving readers wanting more.—Cara von Wrangel Kinsey, New York Public Library

Gr 5–9—Tom Tin's life has taken a turn for the worse ever since he took possession of the Jolly Stone, a sought-after diamond as big as a doorknob. A wealthy merchant, Mr. Goodfellow, has sentenced Tom's father to debtors' prison and Tom to an island in the South Seas on a convict ship. When Tom and four fellow castaways escape from the cannibal-infested islands on a broken-down boat, their provisions and fuel run out, forcing them to draw threads to see who will die so that the rest can live. Just before the axe is wielded, they run across two stranded sailors who use force to take over Tom's ship and lead the castaways into the hands of slave traders. Thanks to Tom's seafaring upbringing and loads of luck, the boys survive one frightening episode after another, eventually bringing Tom back to London where he can retrieve the Jolly Stone and seek revenge on Mr. Goodfellow. A treasure chest packed with seaworthy adventures, including dangerous encounters with slave traders, cannibals, pirates and the notorious Flying Dutchman, The Castaways leaves readers breathless with its twists and turns. Just when readers might think Tom is out of trouble, he comes face to face with another challenge, developing his character from a fearful boy set on revenge to a mature young man who discovers that you cannot put a price on happiness.—Kimberly Monaghan, formerly at Vernon Area Public Library, IL

Gr 6–10—Tenth-grader Raymond J. Dunne (aka the human rug, Freak Show, and Drop Dead Dunne) is well known at Percy Hargrave High because of his penchant for sneezing, nosebleeds, and fainting flat on his back. Passing out is a condition he can't control, but it's not belonging, and being noticed for the wrong things, that bothers him most. Then one day, Raymond gains the attention of new kid Jack Alexander, who befriends him. The cigarette-smoking senior is cool and removed, effortlessly attractive, and sad. He approaches Raymond with a business proposal: that they establish a for-profit social club in a secret, underground room accessible from the Lost and Found booth, which Raymond manages. Lekich has created a classic odd couple through whom he explores friendship, healing, risk-taking, and the price of popularity. Both hilarious and heartwarming, this book may inspire readers to face their fears and to act as if they were "born to run."—Terri Clark, Smokey Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 7 Up—One night, too many drinks and a tragic car accident in Ashville, NC, forever change the lives of four people. Quinn is BMOC, a promising athlete with a driven father pushing him to succeed at all costs. On this particular evening, he hits a bicyclist on the side of the road and covers up the crime. Laurie is on the fringe of the A-list crowd, and considers using her knowledge of what Quinn did to blackmail him into dating her to boost her popularity. However, compromising her morals could be an even bigger atrocity. Analise is the innocent victim, trapped in her own mind. She doesn't know whether to hang on or let go. And Jeremy is the boy who loves her and hopes she can find her way back, because he can't imagine life without her. Hit and Run demonstrates the power of love and making choices. McDaniel, known for her inspiring novels, has a simplistic style, but a weighty message—it's the way you respond to a given situation that defines who you are and who you will be.—Terri Clark, Smokey Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 4–8—Set in rural Mississippi during the hard years of Reconstruction, this novel follows the life of 12-year-old Addy O'Donnell. Abandoned by her parents, she is taken in by a pair of newlyweds, in spite of Mr. Frank's concern that the O'Donnells are "trouble." Addy knew hunger and mistreatment in No-Bob, the hollow claimed by her notorious extended family, but she feels a loyalty to them even as she begins to thrive in her new surroundings. Life takes another unexpected turn, though, when a new friend is killed in a church burning perpetrated by the newly formed Ku Klux Klan and then Addy's father shows up a few days later to take her home. Addy loves her pappy, but back in No-Bob, she begins to see the truth of his actions and nature and she realizes that she is going to have to make a decision that will determine the course of the rest of her life. While there are countless novels set during the Civil War, few focus on Reconstruction. This era in which the South was forced to reevaluate itself serves as a handy metaphor for Addy as she reevaluates her own life. McMullan fills her engrossing, character-driven story with well-chosen details that paint a clear, believable picture of a time long past. This will make a fine addition to libraries seeking to expand their historical fiction offerings.—Adrienne Furness, Webster Public Library, NY

Gr 4–6—Extreme sports stories in easy-to-read chapter books. Paintball features best friends and skilled players Max and Tyler. They've competed for years and are among the best in their area. A beginner, Ryan, joins their league and never loses. Max suspects foul play but cannot prove it. After watching Ryan's team play, Max discovers how he is cheating, and he wins the Challenge Cup for his team. In Speedway, twins Michael and Mark expect to clean up in the quarter-midget car racing championships. But a new racer, Buzz Shaw, shows up and threatens their plans. Buzz is an erratic and unsafe driver who does whatever it takes to win. During a race, he crashes into Michael, leaving Michael's car trashed and his leg broken, and the brothers are forced to take on their opponent in a new way. Maddox presents simple stories with tidy conflict resolutions and likable characters. Black-and-white cartoons are scattered throughout, and the books end with discussion questions, writing prompts, information about the sports, and instructions on how to find related Web sites. These books are a good choice for reluctant readers or those who enjoy extreme sports without preteen drama.—Alison Grant, Ruby S. Thomas Elementary School, Las Vegas, NV

Gr 5–8—In the midst of a Katrina-like disaster, 10-year-old Dinah and her siblings, teenager Zeke and toddler Rebecca Ruth, find themselves cut off from society, with only their distant cousin for company. To distract the siblings from their predicament, Gage begins to tell them the story of the skibbereen, the creatures generally known as tooth fairies. His story focuses on What-the-Dickens, an orphaned skibberee whose adventures bring him into contact with a house cat, a bird, a tiger, and a variety of humans, including Gage himself. What-the-Dickens meets Pepper, who takes him back to her colony, where he learns about his people's history and comes to understand their role in bringing wishes to humans. Maguire intersperses What-the-Dickens's story with that of Dinah and her family, interweaving the child's worries and experiences with those of the skibberee. The author's flair for language shows up in his detailed descriptions of characters and setting, such as What-the-Dickens's hair that "flew everywhere, as if eager to get off his scalp." The siblings' problems meeting their basic needs ring true, and their relationships with one another add depth to the story. There's much here to appeal to both Maguire's younger and older fans, and the immediacy of the story and combination of fantasy and reality will grip even reluctant readers.—Beth L. Meister, Pleasant View Elementary School, Franklin, WI

Gr 5–8—Twelve-year-old Garland Maddigan's family runs Maddigan's Fantasia, a traveling circus in a postapocalyptic world. Maps are still unreliable and towns are cut off from one another by wilderness and various hazards. After the death of Garland's father at the outset of the tale, her mother, Maddie, must rely on the Fantasia's second-in-command, Yves, to help with the circus. She reveals that the city of Solis has commissioned them to bring back a solar converter from Newton, the town of scientists. If they fail, the power in Solis will fail and the one true city left will be in grave peril. Throughout their journey, Garland struggles with the thought of Yves somehow usurping her father's place both as leader of the circus and as her mother's partner, if not lover. There is still more to the story, though, as two boys and a baby girl appear mysteriously just after Garland's father is killed. Timon and Eden have traveled from the future because bringing the converter to Solis will somehow thwart the evil Nennog of their time. With all of these plotlines and another handful of significant characters, the book sometimes feels overstuffed. The first half is somewhat episodic, but once the Fantasia has the solar converter, the return to Solis is more straightforward, albeit with startling revelations all the way to the final act. Balancing these reservations are the unusual world and characters that Mahy has created. This odd science-fiction tale belongs in most libraries.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 9 Up—Jordan is a wreck. Toying with the need for rehab, she is coming to terms with the fact that she is becoming known as the school slut when under the influence. To make matters worse, she spends her nights awake in her bedroom, terrified because her dead ex-boyfriend—now a vampire—is outside begging to be invited in. Her self-esteem drops low enough that she actually weighs the merits of joining the ranks of the undead. Vampire novels have timeless appeal for teens, and, without being heavy-handed or didactic, Marrone raises the bar by creating a protagonist who has an effective self-realization of moral issues. Uninvited is a fast-paced vampire novel with soul.—Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

Gr 5–9—A literate and luminous retelling of the story of Orpheus and Eurydice set in the underworld of New York City. Ninth-grader Jack Perdu is a precociously gifted classics scholar who lives in New Haven with his father. When Jack is hit by a car, he suddenly finds that he can see and hear ghosts, one of whom leaves behind an odd map of New York City with his deceased mother's name written on it. His father, realizing that Jack has somehow changed, sends him to see a doctor in Manhattan. After obtaining a strange gold subway token from the doctor's office, Jack meets Euri, a mysterious girl seemingly his own age, at the Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Station. When she offers to show him around and he uses the subway token to gain entry to a hidden New York, he quickly realizes that she is dead and that what she is showing him is the ghost world. Jack is determined to bring his mother back to the living world, but as he and Euri journey through the underworld, Jack comes to realize that perhaps he is fated to do something very different. The novel combines classical references to Ovid's Metamorphoses with fascinating details about New York City history and landmarks in a way that is engaging and often humorous. The conclusion of the novel is poignant but inevitable to those familiar with the story on which it is based. Give this book to fans of Delia Sherman's Changeling (Viking, 2006) and Anne Ursu's The Shadow Thieves (S & S, 2005).—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 4–6—Sprig's world would be great if only she could make her older sister go away. Tired of Dakota's teasing and telling her how to behave, the 10-year-old copes by imagining creative ways to rid herself of her sibling, envisioning everything from baking her like a cookie to shipping her off to the Antarctic. Further distressing to her is the fact that her best friend is starting to notice boys, and this is leading to quarrels between them. Toss on top of that a father in Afghanistan and a neighbor who falls ill before her eyes—it's no wonder Sprig frequently breaks down in tears. Captured in these trying relationships are deeper understandings of the dynamics of friendship and sisterhood. Important lessons about decision-making and age-appropriate responsibility are effortlessly delivered. Sprig learns that jealousy and anger are poor companions and that seemingly insurmountable differences can sometimes lead to surprising unions. This entertaining and true-to-life book is an excellent introduction to the world of boys, sibling rivalry, and loyalty. Mazer's telling of age-old struggles will easily find a home with reluctant readers and sisters alike.—Erin Schirota, Bronxville Public Library, NY

Gr 5–8—Elements of Norse and Greek mythology mingle in this animal fantasy. Fleeing Ragnarok, the twilight of the gods that is engulfing her world, a brave little dog is magically transported to our world and rescued by Sam and his three odd aunts. At first, Jenny feels happy and safe in her new home, but gradually she realizes that Fenrir, the hound of Ragnarok, threatens to overwhelm this world as well, so she recruits a ragtag band of misfit dogs to fight back. Stouthearted Chihuahua Pico and old tracker Gentleman Jim must journey beyond the edge of the world to gain the help of Orion the hunter, while excitable Checkers and slow, plodding Boris enter the underworld to enlist the aid of Cerberus, the hound of hell. Meanwhile, flighty poodle Flo must outwit Fenrir's world-devouring wolves. Various mythological characters—Charon, Baldur, the Furies, Harpies, etc.—make appearances, and even Sam's aunts aren't quite what they seem at first. The rather complicated plot jumps back and forth among the canine questers, and the abrupt changes of setting—from the rainbow bridge Bifrost to Hades to the Elysian Fields—can be a challenge to follow. The tone and dialogue also vary widely, ranging from portentous and mythic to modern vernacular—sometimes by the same character within the same page. (Would the ferryman of the dead be likely to complain petulantly, "This isn't a taxi, you know?") An additional choice where the demand for animal fantasy is high.—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Gr 7–10—This wonderful coming-of-age novel has at its heart the healing power of nature. Baby, 15, has been abandoned by her alcoholic mother and lives by her wits. She winds up in northern New Hampshire in yet another foster home, this time with an understanding couple who race sled dogs and an opportunity to change the downward spiral of her life. In this well-written tale, the author skillfully utilizes his love and understanding of sledding to weave a story of the redemptive and restorative power of animals. Baby learns to care for the dogs and to run them; she begins to gain a sense of responsibility and to trust again, and she is forced to make some difficult decisions about herself and her place in the world. The vividly described racing scenes will make readers want to trek north to experience a competition or two.—Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 9 Up—This novel from the popular Aussie author is absurdly preposterous, delightfully whimsical and funny, and replete with wacky characters. The problem, however, is one of audience. Ostensibly, readers might assume that the book is for girls, like Listen Taylor, who are entering seventh grade. She and her dad have just moved in with Marbie Zing, whom Nathaniel is dating. Marbie meets with other members of the family every Friday night to discuss the Zing Family Secret. Readers aren't sure what that secret is for most of the book, but they do learn that it involves state-of-the-art surveillance and breaking and entering. While the portrayal of Listen's shunning by the clique of girls at school is right on, and Listen does find an old yet misguided spell book, this is not really her story. It is more the story of the Zing family: Marbie, who cheats on Nathaniel with an unnamed aeronautical engineer; Fancy, who suspects her husband of having an affair; and Maude, the matriarch, whose affair early in her marriage has spawned the Zing Family Secret. It is also Cath Murphy's story: second-grader Cassie Zing's brokenhearted teacher has an affair with a married teacher and is central to the Zing Secret. She is the baby of Maude and a famous actor. It is difficult to imagine that readers would be interested in Fancy's long "List of Irritating Things about My Husband," ("#2. During sex he talks in this low, husky voice….") or in all the extramarital, although not sexually explicit, bed swapping. A clever, fun romp, better suited for older teens.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 5–9—Told by Joan, a recent transplant from Connecticut to Northern California in 1972, this tale embodies the transformative power of both the written word and friendship. While trekking through the woods near her house, the 11-year-old stumbles upon Sarah, who calls herself Fox. The two girls become inseparable companions in exploring the outdoors and their imaginations. They overcome disparities in background: Joan has a more traditional suburban life with a mother who tries to compensate for a sour, unhappy father; Fox lives with her father, a science-fiction author, in a run-down house, and prefers to believe that the mother who abandoned her years ago did so because she was transformed into a fox. Joan can't penetrate Fox's outsider persona at school, but away from class, they compose a contest-winning story of two girls questing in a magical forest. Their read-aloud performance at a San Francisco ceremony, wearing full lipstick war paint to make them feel suitably wild, gains them admittance to a summer writing program at Berkeley. Their avant-garde instructor urges them to pay attention and ask questions, helping them become stronger writers and more confident people, able to deal with difficult family challenges. Supporting characters are fully formed and intriguing. Murphy evokes her setting with skill and plays out themes of creativity and self-expression with grace and intensity. Readers will applaud the metamorphoses of Fox and Joan, who come to understand themselves and others through their art.—Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA

Gr 5–8—When the substitute art teacher, Wanda Gibbs, intercepts a rude note written by eighth-grader Stewart, she responds by landing him with the nickname Wart. His father meets her at Open House and asks her out on a date, and, oddly enough, Martha, Dad's former girlfriend and a friend of Wanda's, doesn't seem to mind. Suddenly, Wanda seems to be taking over Stewart's life: his dad is totally besotted with her, his little sister is undergoing a personality change as a result of her influence, and Wanda's oddball son claims that she turns him into a frog when he misbehaves. Could she really be a witch? Stewart and his best friends, Ham and Rachel, are convinced that she is evil and needs to be stopped. But Stewart's attempt to puzzle out the mystery is complicated when her spells boost his popularity and basketball skills, and he enjoys the attention of a cute cheerleader. Deciding what matters more—making it on his own and being loyal to his friends or having his dreams come true—is tough. Since his mother's death years earlier, Stewart has resisted any change at home, but suddenly Martha seems like a desirable and comfortable alternative to the twisted Wanda. The plot moves quickly and the characters are appealing and unique. Humorous implausibility vies with more serious issues as Myers provides a lighthearted look at common family and middle school concerns.—Carol A. Edwards, Denver Public Library

Gr 5–8—"In my 'hood, battles is fought every day," quips Marcus, an angry middle schooler on the brink of big trouble. His words, rife with frustration, tumble across page after page in free-flowing verse as he paints a picture of his quickly fading innocence. In the short time since his sister's death, memories of eating ice cream and giggling have been replaced by the bleak reality of a persistent bully, fist fights, and an absent dad. After begrudgingly meeting CM, Chess Master, the school's "bad dude" chess club adviser, an extended "battle" metaphor unfolds, concluding as Marcus takes responsibility for his own actions and moves his fighting off the street and onto the chessboard. While the plot undeniably follows a certain predictability, Chess Rumble works, and works well. Neri expertly captures Marcus's voice and delicately teases out his alternating vulnerability and rage. The cadence and emotion of the verse are masterfully echoed through Watson's expressive acrylic illustrations. Blacks, whites, and grays echo the concrete world of Marcus's urban home and, even more so, his despairing mood. Scattered chess pieces evoke the crescendo of the boy's temper. The closing scene tenderly catches tough-guy Marcus in a smile as he pounds fists with CM before sitting down to do battle, a stark contrast to his opening image, one dominated entirely by his fist. This book will become a standby pick for reluctant readers, who will be pulled in before they know it by the story's quick pace and the authenticity of Marcus's voice and experience.—Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

Gr 9 Up—Seventeen-year-old Jonatan lies in a hospital bed, unconscious from drinking too much alcohol and covered with his girlfriend's blood, but the story of how this happened is never explained. The literary novel consists mainly of the young man's parents, who are estranged from one another, each telling the unconscious Jonatan their side of the family's story as they try, perhaps too late, to impart some wisdom to him. The parents met as teenage rebels in the 1970s, fell in love, had a baby, and tried to live a quiet domestic life before separating. Jonatan's girlfriend appears in the middle of the narrative and listens, occasionally commenting, but shedding no light on what brought him here. The plot is filled with dark secrets, sexual confessions, and psychological games. The parents may talk about youthful revolutionary acts, but there is no excitement in the book. After a long, stilted passage, a character will say something like, "…I'm sounding awfully preachy…" which does not improve the action. Seventeen is very much of the place—Sweden—neighborhoods, political parties, and soccer teams are name-dropped, but it is hard for a non-Swede to connect to them since their importance is never explained. The narration varies from being in the characters' minds to spoken dialogue, and there is not always a clear delineation between the two. About as enjoyable as a parental lecture.—Geri Diorio, The Ridgefield Library, CT

Gr 5–7—Manuel, 11, and his family are conversos—Jews who have nominally converted to Christianity—in 17th-century Spain. They have fled harsh discrimination in Portugal, but their lives are still shrouded in fear and suspicion. When Manuel's teacher intercedes, the boy is allowed to join a group who polices the neighborhood looking for Jews, and who previously bullied him. This helps to cement the family's Christian facade, but endangers them by exposing their home to hostile outsiders. Manuel has a crush on his neighbor Violanti, and he is relieved to learn that she is a converso, too, so now he can share his secret with her. When interfaith love leads to the imprisonment of Violanti's older sister and the execution of her husband, Manuel's family flees again, this time to religiously liberal Amsterdam. The Inquisition can be a dramatic setting for historical fiction, and Katz's pen-and-ink illustrations heighten the drama, but this story is dragged down by extensive historical detail that interferes with the narrative flow, and the horrors of the period are presented in stilted dialogue. Character development and a dramatic plotline do not take shape until well into the book, and conflicts are too neatly and quickly resolved. Alice Hoffman's Incantation (Little, Brown, 2006) and Kathryn Lasky's Blood Secret (HarperCollins, 2004) are far more absorbing.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 5–9—Solitary and brooding, 13-year-old Sherlock Holmes prefers observing street life in 1860s London to attending school, and is skilled at appraising people. He's frustrated by his family's strained financial circumstances and the social prejudice that limits his future. His mother, once a wealthy socialite, married a poor Jewish scholar and was disowned by her parents. His brilliant father has been forced to take a job training birds at The Crystal Palace, and his urging Sherlock to become whatever he wishes seems hollow. The boy becomes obsessed with a gruesome murder, an interest that eventually lands him in jail as an accomplice to the primary suspect. There, he's visited by Irene Doyle, a young philanthropist who becomes his crime-solving partner. To prove his innocence, Sherlock makes a daring escape and sets about solving the crime. The details of the plot are plausible, the pacing well timed, and the historical setting vividly depicted. Past advice from Sherlock's father steers his thinking as he gathers clues and employs deductive processes. The titular crow comes fascinatingly into play, as Sherlock imagines himself as one of the birds that were the only witnesses to the crime. Inspector Lestrade and his son are introduced, as is Malefactor, a gang leader with a mysterious past who is Sherlock's intellectual equal and worthy opponent. On balance, the characters enrich the book and help give Holmes's storied abilities credence. The tragic death of his mother paves the way for his future pursuit of justice.—Sheila Fiscus, Our Lady of Peace School, Erie, PA

Gr 10 Up—Eighteen-year-old Ricardo Gomes de Barros's extraordinary soccer skills have garnered him fame, but his disappearance after a critical game leads sportswriter Paul Faustino to investigate. When Faustino asks too many questions, he is kidnapped and taken into the rural countryside where Barros grew up; there he learns of the ancestor worship and "Veneration" that the displaced slaves brought with them to the New World. The narrative is divided between Paracleto, a Loma slave of the 1700s who has come to be thought of as a god, and Faustino. Peet uses Paracleto's voice to expound some vital information, but the divided narrative detracts from the modern-day mystery and reduces the cohesiveness of the work as a whole. The lack of background information leaves questions about ancestor worship and other religious traditions among displaced Africans. Similar to Tamora Pierce's "Immortals" quartet (S & S), Peet's god characters appear, provide cryptic insight, and fade back out; however, they are the most interesting characters in the book. The way in which Faustino eventually discovers Barros reduces the mysterious element of the story to a mere side note in the plot, which had previously suffered from a lack of suspense. Between the disjointed narrative and unappealing characters, this novel will have difficulty attracting readers, and should be a strictly supplemental purchase.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

Gr 5–8—In this story narrated in the protagonist's Texas drawl, readers will see the effects of a trying time in history through the eyes of a sympathetic white girl. When Silvy Lane, 12, goes to the post office, her friend Mabelee, who is black, waits outside. Silvy begins to question such practices when she is not allowed to invite her friend to her birthday party. At the same time, the girls' community goes through difficult changes leading up to and immediately following the Brown vs. Board of Education decision. As Silvy sees less and less of Mabelee, she starts to pal around with eccentric and crass Allie Rae. The two girls and another classmate strive for fun and a bit of normalcy as community tempers flair when a northern black man comes to help improve the still-segregated school for Hughes Springs blacks. The racial tension, which increases gradually from the very first page and culminates with a fiery disaster, coupled with serious financial concerns, force Silvy's family to consider leaving Texas. Pairing this story with Patricia McKissack's A Friendship for Today (Scholastic, 2007) could prompt an interesting discussion of this period. Despite occasional abrupt transitions from chapter to chapter, the story flows chronologically with enough drama to keep readers turning the pages.—Bethany A. Lafferty, Las Vegas-Clark County Library, NV

Gr 8–10—Violence and psychological twists form the backdrop for this contemporary horror story. Mandy has it all: good grades, a hot boyfriend, and popularity. Life changes quickly, though, when she catches Dale flirting online, and a classmate named Nicki is found brutally murdered. Understandably, the town is shaken to its very core. Mandy is further spooked when she begins receiving anonymous text messages and instant messages from a person who, though he identifies himself, is a stranger. The teen's curiosity gets the best of her and she responds to the online message sender, only to be pleasantly surprised by handsome Kyle. A friendship ensues but every time the two are supposed to meet, Kyle's plans change. Meanwhile, Mandy begins having nightmares about Nicki's killer. As her uneasiness turns to alarm, her friends try to warn her, but it is too late, and the killer's nature turns out to be far more different than she ever imagined. This cautionary ghost story is sure to grab readers' attention. Mandy's and her friends' voices and language are real, as is their way of dealing with problems. Fans of R. L. Stine's "Fear Street" (S & S) and Neal Shusterman's "Dark Fusion" series (Dutton) will enjoy this story and anxiously await its sequel.—Angela M. Boccuzzi-Reichert, Merton Williams Middle School, Hilton, NY

Gr 7–10—Pixley hits the nail on the head when it comes to middle-school misery. Miriam Fisher is a heroine in a misfit's body, with a popular older sister and artsy, intellectual parents who encourage her nonconformist lifestyle and choose to believe that her life is hunky-dory. When high school senior and handsome thespian Artie Rosenberg comes to live with them while his parents are on sabbatical in India, Miriam's life spirals out of control. The "watermelon girls" at school (so named for the flavor of their lip gloss) taunt her about her looks, her awkward manner, and her crush on Artie, which, it turns out, is not so secret, thanks to her sister. Jenny Clarke, their leader, is cruel to Miriam on a daily basis, humiliating her in the cafeteria, on the bus, and during class. The protagonist records her joys and sorrows in her journal, which she carries with her constantly, adding poetry and soulful entries as they occur. Through unexpected circumstances, Miriam ends up shaving her head and saving her nemesis from a terrible fate, therefore empowering herself and redefining her identity. Like Virginia in Carolyn Mackler's The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things (Candlewick, 2003), Miriam changes her mind about what makes someone beautiful, popular, or confident. This is a powerful look at middle school angst and transformation from a new YA author to watch.—Nora G. Murphy, Los Angeles Academy Middle School

Gr 5–8—This book reads like the script for an educational video for a fifth-grade social studies class. When Sam's wayward father disappears on another unannounced business trip, Sam rummages through the basement of his used-book shop. There he finds a secret room and a stone in the shape of the sun. Putting a coin in the center of the stone transports him to a monastery in the Dark Ages, where he learns that he is on the island of Iona. Though Sam has a number of Indiana Jones-like adventures in ancient Egypt, World War I France, and Renaissance Belgium, none of them leads him any closer to his father or reveals the secrets of the stone. The only standout here is Lily, Sam's teenybopper cousin who translates Latin phrases by instant messaging and lets him take her cell phone to Belgium. The cliff-hanger ending indicates that a sequel is likely, but, given the fact that this one lacks interesting characters, unusual twists, and a sense of urgency, most readers won't care. Steer readers toward Garth Nix's "The Keys to the Kingdom" series (Scholastic).—Emily R. Brown, Providence Public Library, RI

Gr 6 Up—Pullman's love of the genre is obvious in this collection of 16 stories by authors from around the world. In his introduction, Pullman briefly outlines the history of the detective story from the Bible to its rise in popularity 60 years after the first Sherlock Holmes story and the advent of movies as well as why he likes this particular genre. Readers who enjoy whodunits from such classic writers as Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie will love more contemporary selections from Damon Runyon, whose story "Butch Minds the Baby" has a funny side, in contrast to the normally dark stories that are so prevalent now. Those who like logic puzzles with a police theme will appreciate Raymond Smullyan's selections "From the Files of Inspector Craig," in which readers are given a scenario and encouraged to determine who the culprit is (answers are provided at the back of the book). Each selection comes with a brief introduction setting the stage and an interesting fact about the author and/or the story.—Lori E. Donovan, Thomas Dale High School, Chester, VA

Gr 4–8—Where does one begin when asked to write a five-page essay on the meaning of Smekday? If you are 11-year-old Gratuity Tucci, you begin prior to the arrival of the aliens, before your mother started receiving cryptic messages through a mole in the back of her neck, and before all Americans are forced to move to reservations in Florida to make room for the influx of an alien race known as the Boov. In a rebellious snit, Tip decides to drive her mother's car to Florida, rather than take the Boov rocketpods, and finds herself caught up in a most outlandish road trip with her cat, Pig, and her very own renegade Boov, J.Lo, for company. First-time novelist Rex has written an imaginative, wacky, hilarious sci-fi story that will appeal to fans of Eoin Colfer and Jon Scieszka. Lively cartoon-paneled illustrations are interspersed throughout and add to the fun. This is a fast-paced adventure with a whip-smart protagonist, a lovable and resourceful extraterrestrial, and plenty of social commentary.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK

Gr 5–7—The first half of this novel about middle school kids in Harlem sets the scenes, introduces the characters, and describes disjointed events that don't quite work. When Robinson does settle on a plotline, the story moves along well, although it lacks depth. Jumper, 11, introduced in Safe at Home (Scholastic, 2006), has moved from Connecticut to New York, and his dad has recently died. Children who have not read the first book will not understand the dynamics among the characters and the problems Jumper previously experienced with Marcus, a boy he met at baseball camp. When the school announces elections for student-council representatives, Jumper and Nia, Marcus's younger sister, enter the competition. There are campaign slogans, a dance tournament, a boys versus girls basketball game, and some underdeveloped side issues along the way. The kids are too polite, smart, and athletic to be realistic, and there are too many issues that are unresolved. Still, the election campaign makes a good story. Readers might prefer another novel with some strange similarities, Charisse K. Richardson's The Real Slam Dunk (Dial, 2005), with twins Marcus and Mia involved in school and basketball, too.—Debbie Whitbeck, West Ottawa Public Schools, Holland, MI

Gr 3–6—Young fox Penhaligon Brush discovers that you must be careful what you wish for in this exciting novel. Brush, a polite and reliable pharmacist from the quiet town of Ramble-on-the-Water, receives an urgent note from his brother asking him to come to Porthleven immediately. Along the way he discovers that the evil cat Sir Derek has taken over the village and captured his brother. It is all part of a plan to steal the dowry of Crown Prince Tamar's betrothed as she sails in to meet the prince. Brush is an unlikely hero who teams up with a charming family of hedgehogs, some orphaned wolf cubs, Lady Ferball, and her companion, the feisty vixen Rowan. Together they hatch a brilliant plan to save the princess and release the village from Sir Derek's control. This story has something for everyone—mystery, daring escapes, and a touch of romance. With well-developed, believable characters and excellent pacing, it is difficult to put down. The romantic tension between Rowan and Brush is just enough for young readers looking for a love story. Themes of acceptance, chivalry, and resourcefulness give this tale an optimistic quality. Rogan's happy ending ties up all the loose ends in a satisfying manner. Slade's occasional black-and-white illustrations support readers as they envision the unusual characters. An excellent addition.—Nicki Clausen-Grace, Carillon Elementary School, Oviedo, FL

Gr 9 Up—Nina Goldman was born with a disfiguring birthmark above her left eye. Along with an older sister and brother, she is raised by loving and prosperous Jewish parents. Beginning when Nina is seven years old, the story chronicles her life for the next 13 years. As readers would expect, she feels ugly and unlovable. Fortunately, her parents do everything in their power to get her to the best doctors. Eventually there's not much left of the birthmark, though a few more years pass before the internal scars are healed. The story follows Nina through childhood insecurities, including teasing by her classmates, to her first sexual experience, through first love and self-acceptance. The lives of the entire family revolve around Nina's good-hearted and loving but often exasperating, narcissistic father. In addition to making peace with her birthmark, Nina must forgive him for his failures—real and imagined—and forgive herself for sometimes hating him more than loving him. In the end, she comes to terms with those feelings as well. Beautifully written, and with larger-than-life characters, this book will remain in readers' hearts for a long time to come.—Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 5–8—This is a fun and fast fantasy ride set in an alternative New York City, in which people can fly or have other powers. Thirteen-year-old Georgie Bloomington, thought to be an orphan, has been reunited with her parents—the richest couple in the universe—for six months, having been kidnapped when she was a baby. However, as she quickly learns, money doesn't buy happiness. Even "Bug" Grabowski, her best friend, has been something of a jerk since he became famous for being the best flyer around, and Georgie is constantly teased because she can't get off the ground. But the awkwardness of growing up (and growing increasingly gangly) is nothing compared to the strange things that start happening around Manhattan. A giant octopus nabs Bugs from South Street Seaport, only to return him to the dock and gently ruffle his hair; a giant sloth grabs Georgie's nemesis and starts scaling the Empire State Building; and Georgie is visited at night by a punk and later a vampire (in fabulous pants). It's up to her to figure out how these seemingly random things are related. The strange happenings gradually become interwoven and Georgie struggles to save the day without tripping over her own feet. Her special ability—to turn invisible—is hampered by awkward mishaps where a foot or a nose remains in full sight. Ruby has produced a witty, quick read that's sure to be a hit.—Nancy Kunz, Tuckahoe Public Library, NY

Gr 4–8—Maya, an orphan, copes with her strict grandmother's harsh rules by lying and sabotaging a revolving stream of housekeepers. Upon her grandmother's sudden death, the 11-year-old is sent to Wyoming to live with her mother's family, strangers whom she has been told are wild and worthless. Maya soon discovers that she was badly misled and that her relatives are warm and loving, teaching her not only about their remuda horses but also about the wild mustangs of the surrounding hills and plains. One mare in particular attracts her attention, for it was the horse tamed and loved by her mother before it was returned to the wild. When disaster strikes, the bond between the girl and the horse is tested, and at this point the book morphs into a survival story. Against enormous odds, Maya makes it to safety with the help of Artemisia, and through these experiences her connection to her family and to the natural world are secured. Both the descriptions of the mustangs' life and of Maya's growth from an angry self-centered liar into a kind and honest girl capable of making difficult decisions are handled with skill and realism. Admirers of Ginger Kathrens's Cloud: Wild Stallion of the Rockies (BowTie, 2001) and others of its ilk will love this exciting horse tale.—Ann Robinson, formerly at Moultonborough Academy Library, NH

Gr 5–8—The conventional trappings of the middle-school fantasy get turned upside down in this zany novel. Alcatraz is a 13-year-old boy with hidden powers, but his talent is "breaking things." The powerful object he must find is a bag of sand, he battles monsters made of paper, and his arch nemeses are evil librarians. It all sounds ludicrous, but there is actually some consistent logic that makes the adventures engaging, as well as silly. Seemingly random insertions, such as a bunch of very civilized dinosaurs that speak with English accents, later play key roles in the plot development. Alcatraz opens nearly every chapter by addressing readers directly, and frequently interrupts the narrative, a technique that adds to the enjoyable bizarreness. He reflects flippantly upon writing techniques, gives broad hints about what may happen next, and even tells outright lies about his own story. It takes a while to adjust to this intentionally chaotic narration, but it ultimately becomes quite effective. The details of this fantasy world, where librarians dominate "Hushlanders" by withholding information about many things, including the existence of three other continents, make just enough sense to frame the sometimes frantic plot. Though there's intentionally more humor than drama, Alcatraz becomes a more complex figure by the time his adventure is through as he discovers the value of friendship, courage, and family. Readers who prefer fantasy with plenty of humor should enjoy entering Alcatraz's strange but amusing world.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 7 Up—Sixteen-year-old Raven Madison, Goth-girl extraordinaire, and her vampire boyfriend, Alexander Sterling, are once again saving Dullsville from the undead. The book starts off where the third ended with the sudden appearance of Valentine Maxwell, the younger sibling of evil Jagger and Luna. Maxwell has befriended Raven's younger brother and his best friend, putting them in danger. Until now, Alexander has resisted the idea of turning Raven into a creature of the night; when she realizes that her lifetime dream may become a reality, she gets cold feet and their relationship becomes strained. This novel stands on its own, but is more satisfying if readers are familiar with events in the earlier books. Raven's character continues to develop, and teens will identify with her needs, attitude, and desires. Although the story lacks the intensity of Annette Curtis Klause's The Silver Kiss (1990) and Atwater Rhodes's Demon in My View (2000), Shattered Mirror (2001), and Midnight Predator (2002, all Delacorte), it's a good choice for Goth lovers and fans of romantic vampire stories.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

Gr 6 Up—The "Miorita" is a song of death, and its meaning is hidden throughout this novel of gothic superstitions and ghastly murders that's set amid the desolate, wintry forest of early-17th-century Eastern Europe. Tomas, a churlish sot, a woodcutter by trade, and his gentle teenage son, Peter, build a hut surrounded by a purposefully designed moat on the outskirts of Chust where a menacing presence lurks among the uneasy villagers. A grisly murder sets off rumors of the "undead" roaming the area at night. When a band of Gypsies arrives, Peter becomes mesmerized by the beautiful Gypsy princess Sofia, whose people prevail upon Tomas to relinquish the contents of the mysterious wooden box he has kept buried and forbidden along with his past. It is through this act that Tomas is offered the redemption that makes this story complete. Sedgwick has captured the malevolent beginnings of the timeless vampire myth. When Tomas discloses the secret in the box, he reveals a silver sword and the key to his vampire-slaying past. In a bone-chilling, breathless conclusion, he passes the skill and the sword to his son with his dying breath, "my swordhand is singing," and Peter takes up the challenge. This is an outstanding tale of suspense and horror with detail enough to produce shivers, and it's also a story of father and son, and loss and restoration, with a satisfying conclusion.—D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

Gr 5–8—Gryllus, the ancient Greek sailor-turned-pig, and his companions Sibyl, a former priestess, and Homer, an adolescent poet, are in search of the sorceress Circe, who can restore Gryllus to his human form. However, Circe and the rest of the gods and goddesses have been captured by Sisyphus, who has escaped his eternal torment and is looking for revenge. It's up to Gryllus and his companions to rescue the gods and save the world again, following their previous adventures in The Pig Scrolls (Candlewick, 2005). Major and minor characters from Greek mythology aid or hinder Gryllus, including the Cyclops, King Midas and his daughter, and the talking head of Orpheus, the "greatest singer in the ancient world." Gryllus's narrative voice brings humor to the most desperate situations, though episodes like the Cyclops-flatulence contest speak for themselves. Gryllus's sarcasm and self-centered perspective are consistent, and readers will find him either entertaining or annoying. Familiarity with Greek mythology adds to the humor, but a glossary of Greek terms and characters is a useful addition. Readers who've outgrown Dan Greenburg's early chapter books may find the slightly gross humor here entertaining, but Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series (Hyperion/Miramax) offers a more contemporary and engaging take on Greek mythology.—Beth L. Meister, Pleasant View Elementary School, Franklin, WI

Gr 8–10—After her mom falls down the stairs and dies, Calla spends the summer with her maternal grandmother. Odelia lives in New York state in a place called Lily Dale, where spiritualists gather to give séances and readings. After several eerie experiences, Calla realizes reluctantly that she has inherited her grandmother's gift of seeing and communicating with the dead. The plot gathers momentum slowly as Calla meets other teens and tries to find explanations for the odd things that are happening to her, and it's only at the very end of the book that she realizes that a spirit has been trying to tell her something shocking about her mother's death. Nothing is resolved, so readers must wait for the sequel to find out what happens. The story is light and tingly enough to hold nondemanding readers' attention, but ultimately it feels incomplete and therefore somewhat frustrating.—Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Arty Flood, 18, can't wait to get out of Harker City, KS, where excitement is limited to school football games and dates at the Frosty Queen diner. His hopes lie in the success of Stiles' Styles, the dog-clothing company where he is a design assistant, but his recent duties involve merely taking the owners' pet to the town lake, and he cannot get wages owed to him. On one of these trips, Arty meets his dream girl, Vanessa, and begins to view his situation differently. Suddenly he loathes his drama teacher, with whom he has been having a sexual affair. He also wants to end his relationship with the sheriff's daughter (desperate to lose her virginity), whom the man has blackmailed Arty into dating. Arty tries to disentangle himself from his girlfriends, his struggling family, and the town itself. When he loses his job after a mysterious fire and the death of one of the Stileses, he takes a job at the Frosty, but its future isn't certain either. Uhlig's evocation of small-town life is perfect: everybody is in everybody else's business, and the townspeople's odd enterprises are well described. Ultimately, Last Dance is a story of Arty's transition from object to agent, one that is echoed in changes, at turns poignant and dramatic, in the town.—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 9 Up—In this intense sports novel, Mackey is about to realize his ambition of participating in one of Rucker Park's legendary street basketball tournaments. When he and his friend J.R. are chosen to play on rap star J-Greene's squad, the Greenbacks, it seems that their dreams are coming true. Then J.R. is murdered on the court, and Mackey finds himself haunted by the role he played in the tragedy. J.R.'s father, Stove, who is refereeing the tournament, knows that Mackey has not told the truth about J.R.'s death; the man's thoughts form a Greek chorus to the action on the court and Mackey's inner struggles. In high-velocity street ball, elbows and punches fly as players zigzag and streak across the court, and eager crowds line up to see mind-boggling steals and gravity-defying slam dunks. Volponi's sportswriting is finely attuned to the action, and he weaves the true, storied history of Rucker Park, located in New York City's Harlem, throughout his story. At times, the drama threatens to boil over, but Volponi keeps things in check with driving sports action and nuanced characterizations. Recommend this fine work to basketball fans, and to those who've enjoyed Walter Dean Myers's and James Bennett's sports novels.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 5–7—During the 1930s, hard times hit the Carr family. Millie is nearly 13 and Hamish 10 when their mother announces that she is going to have another child. While the girl dreams of going to business school, the chores and demands of daily living make even her part-time work at the drugstore difficult—and then nearly impossible when her mother dies shortly after giving birth. Details of their Ontario community are interwoven into the narrative, and one of the novel's strengths is the depiction of how economic struggles have affected everyone. Early on, an impoverished "traveling woman" enters the story; she tries to pay for her handout of bread and tea with a reading of the family's frightening future. Their father's taciturn grief, Hamish's acting out, and Millie's responsibilities make life complex. In this somewhat internal story, the unfolding of events quietly ratchets up suspense as Millie realizes that the Gypsy woman wants the baby. Millie's struggles to be patient, to become a homemaker, and to fulfill her own dreams contrast with today's ideas about gender equity. This novel provides a good sense of the work that has long been regarded as part of women's role, and it offers a great example of the acceptance of family demands while underscoring the cost.—Carol A. Edwards, Denver Public Library

Gr 4–7—In this sequel to The Strictest School in the World (Kids Can, 2006), 14-year-old Emmaline and Princess Purnah have escaped from St. Grimelda's School for Young Ladies and are living in Yorkshire in the autumn of 1894 with batty but lovable Aunt Lucy. Princess Purnah is heir to the throne of Chiligrit, a tiny, savage, mountainous place in the middle of Asia. The girls, along with Rubberbones, the indestructible errand boy, spend their days with the lunatic Professor Bellbuckle, trying to fly, since Emmaline aspires to design a flying machine. But trouble awaits. A terrifying master criminal who works for the Russian secret police and whose face below his eyes is a white mass of scar tissue wants to kidnap the princess. With the help of Aunt Lucy, the professor, the butler Lal Singh, and Sherlock Holmes and the Baker Street Irregulars, the villainous schemes are foiled, but not before things go wrong—a lot. The gothic overtones and menacing situations are all goofy, over-the-top, and humorously handled. The author's voice slips in with sly, wry humor. Think Lemony Snicket meets Roald Dahl. Slavin's frequent pen-and-ink sketches add just the right touch of whimsy. Princess Purnah is particularly bloodthirsty (even with just a butter knife) and her lack of mastery of the English language and her own exclamations ("Glekk!" "Porok!") add to the fun. While many references are made to the previous novel, they are explained in context, allowing this book to stand alone.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 10 Up—After 17 years with an awful name, little luck, and a nonexistent love life, Shakespeare Shapiro hopes to win a coveted writing award and finally get laid. Wizner endows his narrator with a hilarious, self-deprecating comedic voice that makes readers forgive traces of self-pity. The teen's humor finds resonance in reality, as he airs dirty adolescent laundry for laughs. He offers an unshirking satire of tipsy parents, bowel-obsessed friends, erections, porn, bong hits, drunken mistakes, and unfortunate dates. Angst-riddled teens, particularly boys, will find mortifying situations to which they can intimately relate and a bit of absolution. Clever readers will see two tables of contents and realize that the book alternates between Shakespeare's contest submission and another novel covering his senior year. Other imaginative embellishments in format make Shakespeare, an already wonderfully developed character, feel all the more real. Gray smudges and the ghostly image of plastic spiral binding suggest that the teen slaved over a copy machine to create the book. It is easy to picture him obsessing over binding his publication, as he focuses on himself for the entire novel. When he falls for another finalist, however, a girl whose world poses very real, very tough challenges, his life suddenly doesn't seem so bad. Laughs alone make this effort successful, but Wizner allows Shakespeare to grow and learn just a little, too-an extraordinary feat for such a raucous read.—Shelley Huntington, New York Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Eric lives on the streets but remembers better times with his charismatic, if unreliable, father. Yansky doesn't sugarcoat life as a homeless teen—drugs, violence, and sex for sale figure into the story—but the 17-year-old also comes across as dreamy and surprisingly hopeful. Even as he faces great hardship, Eric expresses himself using vivid, lyrical language. He yearns for a fellow street kid nicknamed Catgirl, who has allowed herself to get mixed up with a powerful, possibly murderous man called Bluebeard. He wants to protect her, and when Bluebeard offers them both money to appear in pornographic movies, Eric is tempted—as much by the chance to be with Catgirl as by the opportunity to get off the streets. Meanwhile, in a less plausible plot twist, he is chosen for a part in a local theater production and discovers his talent for and love of acting. By the end of the novel, he must choose between the two worlds and also rescue Catgirl. The resolution, and Eric's ultimate fate, is satisfying but seems too good to be true. Despite the tough topics addressed, this skillfully written novel will appeal more to reflective readers rather than to reluctant ones.—Miranda Doyle, San Francisco Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Zuckerman has created a world in which animals have become "civilized" and a distinct line is drawn between sentient beings and prey. The separate existences of Harry the fox and Quentin the rabbit collide when corrupt rabbits begin killing and selling their own kind to foxes. It is a harsh winter and the rabbits have built a secure fortress; the foxes are running out of food. Harry is sent by his brother, a powerful official, to investigate the rabbit fortress. On the way, he grudgingly befriends a weasel, Elton, whose reticence and integrity endear him to both Harry and to readers. Meanwhile, Quentin and his friends, fearing conscription, escape from the fortress to join the rebels. Harry and Quentin meet after experiencing hunger, betrayal, and violence. Concepts such as justice, bravery, totalitarianism, religion, friendship, and law saturate this fable. The thought-provoking discussion is at times fleeting, perhaps because the concepts addressed are so numerous. The animals are thoroughly anthropomorphized, (they have schools, religion, and they smoke and drink). When apparent, their animalism is somewhat shocking. For example, Harry devours a family of vole, "snapping their spines, then, holding the babies by their tales, biting off their heads." The language is eloquent and, at times, humorous. The plot moves steadily forward, effectively maintaining suspense through the use of the two converging story lines. Harry, Quentin, and their friends, never simple or two-dimensional, are permanently changed from the violence, oppression, and desperation they experience. For those who survive, some return home and some cannot bear to face the prospect.—Amy J. Chow, New York Public Library

Gr 7 Up—Adkins captures Wright's strong personality, fierce character, and emotional ups and downs in this lively biography. Following his subject's childhood and career, he focuses on the events in Wright's life that may have accounted for his egotism and instability. Life events aside, Adkins does address his architectural legacies. Unfortunately, the small black-and-white pictures do not do them justice. Yona Zeldis McDonough's Frank Lloyd Wright (Chelsea House, 1992; o.p.) does a better job of highlighting his work. Despite the poor quality of the photos, Adkins's biography is entertaining and educational and serves as an additional purchase.—Delia Carruthers, Sunset Ridge Middle School, West Jordan, UT

Gr 4–7—Born in 1850 and raised in Tennessee, Armstrong went west to seek his fortune. At 25, he joined the Texas Rangers and soon came to embody the legendary qualities of these remarkable lawmen. He is an interesting character, and the author aptly tells his tale. The archival black-and-white photos add authenticity and help to bring the man to life. Informational sidebars enrich the story immensely, and help to weave Armstrong's history with that of the Rangers and antebellum Texas in general. A sure bet for libraries looking to rope in readers with tales of bravery and bravado in the Wild West.—Tracy H. Chrenka, Forest Hills Public Schools, Grand Rapids, MI

Gr 5–8—Issues related to the topics are debated in a clear, concise manner. Each chapter begins with background information on the topic and continues with balanced sections that discuss the human rights and ethics involved. Colorful photographs and boxed information highlighted in red break up the texts. Each book ends with questions prompting readers to continue to do research and look at all sides of the controversy. The further-reading section includes a link to a list of Web sites that are updated regularly. Although similar to "Opposing Viewpoints" and "At Issue" (both Gale), "America Debates" is for a younger audience and will appeal to students who wish to have a brief overview of the issues debated in those series.—Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD

Gr 7–10—These titles describe the harsh realities of life under two of the world's most repressive dictatorships. Both books begin with background about the nation's history. The authors credit Mugabe and Kim Il Sung, the father of Kim Jong Il, for their respective efforts to liberate their nations from occupying powers and describe how they took advantage of popular support to gain power in countries that had substantial natural resources and stable economies. They then expose the brutal methods by which the two men became dictators who systematically destroyed all vestiges of independent government, repressed any opposition movements, and implemented disastrous economic policies that impoverished the Zimbabwean and Korean populations even as the dictators and their cronies accumulated enormous fortunes. The authors also describe in detail the extreme hardships of daily life for the citizens of the two nations, and Behnke discusses the international threat posed by North Korea's nuclear weapons under Kim Jong Il, who came to power after Kim Il Sung died in 1994. They close with speculation about each country's prospects for recovery when the current leaders are either deposed or die. Both books are illustrated with average-quality black-and-white and color photos. While they are not pleasant reading, they do give students a glimpse into the repression and daily struggle for survival under these brutal governments. Good resources for research.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 7 Up—This exceptional biography reads like an adventure novel. Born in 1865, in Swardeston, England, Cavell worked as a governess before she decided to become a nurse. After her training, she accepted an offer from a Belgian surgeon to start a nursing-training clinic in Brussels in order to raise the standard of care there. When World War I broke out, the city was occupied by the Germans, but Cavell sheltered numerous British and French soldiers in the clinic. When the Germans discovered her activities, they put her on trial and executed her. The woman's life is laid out logically and succinctly in this revealing work. The author does not glorify her; he shows her as a real person and not just as a mythologized heroine. The historical facts are well explained and Cavell is placed clearly in context. Her legacy is portrayed objectively and her impact is well documented. The few black-and-white photographs, while informative, are very dark and contribute to an overall gray and lackluster book design. This is the only flaw in an otherwise fine effort.—Kristen Oravec, Stephen S. Wise Elementary School, Los Angeles

Gr 6–10—The author of With Courage and Cloth: Winning the Fight for a Woman's Right to Vote (National Geographic, 2004) dishes up an equally compelling account of the birth of investigative journalism in this country. Focusing in particular on Tarbell's scathing history of Standard Oil, Sinclair's only thinly fictionalized exposé of the meatpacking industry, and Steffens's resolute campaign against dishonest politicians, Bausum details instances of corporate greed, government corruption, and disregard for the health of workers and consumers that will seem eerily familiar to today's (well-informed) readers. She also presents convincing case studies to show that the Fourth Estate has often been the driving force pushing for real, meaningful reforms. Supported by sepia-toned photos and a detailed chronology, the text carries the story up to the modern likes of Dana Priest, Seymour Hersh, and some of their contemporaries, and then closes with a multimedia resource guide from which Michael Moore's films are, strangely, absent. Still, budding journalists and social activists in particular can't help but be inspired by the good works of these dedicated, intrepid reporters.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 3–7—This book is chock-full of bloopers and bizarre happenings. The yarns are grouped by sport, with short chapters devoted to football, baseball, soccer, basketball, and a catch-all at the end. Berman, a well-known sportscaster, writes as he speaks, and his jovial style will engage reluctant readers. While most of the stories involve bungles and missteps from the past decade, a fair amount of unusual sports history from the 20th century is sprinkled in, especially in the chapter devoted to the Olympics. The book's appeal is not limited to sports lovers. Berman does a nice job of explaining the basic rules of each game, and the final chapter deals with decidedly nontraditional competitions including eat-offs and pulling trucks with one's ears. Throughout, Gamble's caricaturelike drawings maintain the light tone. However, sticklers for detail will notice that in the illustrations, numbers on players' uniforms don't always match their actual team numbers. Purchase this volume where there is solid demand for Berman's first collection or where sports almanacs and trivia books are popular.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 6–10—This is a captivating biography of the man who has been called the "intellectual engineer" of the Civil Rights Movement. The book begins and ends with the March on Washington, August 28, 1963, which Rustin organized. His mentor was A. Philip Randolph and he was a lifelong adviser to Martin Luther King, Jr. Rustin was a complex, multitalented man—he was a musician, an intellectual, an organizer, and a war objector who chose to go to prison rather than serve in World War II. He was a controversial figure partly because he was at one time a Communist and he was homosexual (the latter mentioned only in an author's note). Brimner keeps the focus on Rustin's work for social justice, including his being beaten and taken to the police station in 1942 for sitting at the front of a bus; his early restaurant sit-ins; and his Journey of Reconciliation, which was a precursor to the Freedom Rides. The author's writing is lively and clear, and he adeptly places Rustin in the larger context of the Jim Crow era and the Civil Rights Movement. The attractive design, with large, clear, black-and-white photographs and plenty of white space, enhances the readability of the text. Red and blue bars emphasize important quotations, lyrics to spirituals, and some photo captions. A gem for students studying the Civil Rights Movement and an excellent addition to any American history collection.—Marcia Kochel, Olson Middle School, Bloomington, MN

Gr 5–8—Through lively prose and stunning full-color photographs, readers learn how Terri Roth, an expert in endangered-species reproduction at the Cincinnati Zoo, helped Emi to give birth to the first Sumatran rhino born in captivity in more than 100 years. One of five rhino species, the Sumatran rhino is relatively tiny (3 to 5 feet tall, weighing from 1300 to 2000 pounds) compared to the other species (ranging from 4.5 to 6.5 feet and weighing from 1700 to 6000 pounds). Illustrations superimposed on a world map show their differing appearances from Africa to India to Asia. The text is full of important details, and the photographs are unfailingly crisp, bright, and full of variety. Reproductive biology and breeding with human assistance are explained as are the conservation and environmental issues impacting rhino survival in the wild. Like many of the entries in this popular series, Emi is engaging and informative.—Frances E. Millhouser, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA

Gr 7–10—Casper presents an overview of the history of energy, renewable and nonrenewable resources, energy development, as well as information on management and conservation. A few full-color photographs, diagrams, and sidebars break up the large blocks of plain text. Although this book offers more depth than most standard science series, it omits dates on many of the statistical charts, the time line stops in the mid-1990s, and most of the suggestions for further reading are at least 10 years old. These serious flaws weaken what would otherwise be a worthwhile addition.—Michael Giller, South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities, Greenville

Gr 5–8—This account fills in the many holes that are found throughout Polo's own accounts of his 24 years in Asia. Childress reconstructs the worlds of 13th-century Venice and China and the Mongol courts of Genghis and Kublai Khan, providing cultural and political context for the journey. Although Polo's descriptions of the various places in Asia that he visited are rich with detail, he omitted specifics such as the actual route or modes of transportation. Childress makes a point to overcome this deficit by using thorough research from a variety of sources, and often points out many of the irregularities and obvious exaggerations in the explorer's account. The writing sometimes feels pedantic and the overall story of Marco Polo and his adventures is occasionally lost in the historical details. Photographs, period artwork, and copies of manuscripts are dotted throughout, providing visual stimulation. Sidebars balance the scholarly tone and break up the narrative. Thorough source notes, a time line, a cast of important figures, and a lengthy explanation of the difference between primary and secondary sources are useful additions. While this title lacks the beauty and lyricism of Russell Freedman's The Adventures of Marco Polo (Scholastic, 2006), it is a fine addition for libraries looking to solidify their exploration collections.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 4–6—David and Gordon present a mass of material on this broad topic in a clearly explained, kid-friendly format. While documenting the decline of species, the dangers presented by melting ice caps, and the hazards of weather-related catastrophes, they also suggest positive and doable steps to address the problems. Eye-catching color illustrations and photos appear throughout, but are often more decorative than informative. Some analogies and statements could use further clarification. "One tree can absorb the amount of CO2 released by an average car that's been driven for 4,000 miles." This rate depends on whether you are discussing the offset for one year or for the lifetime of the tree, as well as its type, age, and size. Most sources feel that it takes far more than one tree to effect this offset. When calculating the "carbon footprint" of an average child, the criteria used are reflective of the industrialized West, yet are applied worldwide. An extensive list of recommended reading in the way of books, articles, and Web sites is included. An appealing title for reports and for general readers.—Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

Gr 8 Up—This comprehensive collection, which includes black-and-white photographs of supplies and illustrations of the creatures to be drawn, is divided into five sections. "Getting Started" discusses supplies such as sketch pads, pencils, and watercolor paint. All of the techniques are covered: shading (light and shadow), creating textures (scales, feathers, hair), combining references (putting wings, heads, and claws on real people or animals drawn from photographs), constructing creatures (basic shapes, forms, depth), placing the features, and shifting proportions (from normal to exaggerated). A few boxed areas provide additional tips. Next come the step-by-step drawing instructions. "Types of Dragons" illustrates l6 creatures ranging from the familiar to the obscure, each one progressively more detailed. "Legendary Dragons" provides guidance for creating l7 creatures from diverse cultures. "Mythological Beasts" focuses on creatures from Greece, and includes a sphynx, the Minotaur, and Pegasus. The 18 "Fantasy Creatures" (leprechaun, troll, ogre) are equally intriguing. Like Christopher Hart's Drawing Dragons and Those Who Hunt Them (Watson-Guptill, 2007), this detailed and sophisticated title for serious artists will be a popular addition.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 9 Up—The story of the United Nations is interesting and important, so it is unfortunate that this text is so unnecessarily complicated and unapproachable. While the format and layout seem to target upper elementary or middle school students, the content is more advanced. While strong on UN Charter details and procedures, the author bypasses the essential human story of the organization: alleviating suffering, ending bloodshed, and ensuring peaceful international cooperation. Stock full-page photos, in color and black and white, appear throughout.—Tracy H. Chrenka, Forest Hills Public Schools, Grand Rapids, MI

Gr 4–7—Fletcher gives readers and educators many practical and supportive tips. To get started, he suggests a few exercises, including having budding autobiographers write about their names and draw a map of their neighborhood. From there, writers must find a focus, keeping readers in mind as they write. He explains that the gist of the story should be honest, though dialogue and sometimes even characters might be invented for literary flow. He addresses telling embarrassing facts about oneself; similarly, he gives examples of times when writers reveal unflattering truths about friends and family. Interspersed within the text are interviews with Jack Gantos, Kathi Appelt, and Jerry Spinelli, along with passages from the author's own memoir, Marshfield Dreams (Holt, 2005). Add this title to Fletcher's Poetry Matters (2002) and How Writers Work (2000, both HarperCollins) for the budding writers out there looking to improve on their techniques.—Debbie Whitbeck, West Ottawa Public Schools, Holland, MI

Gr 3–6—The 40 poems here are about all sorts of beasts, from "The Boar at My Door" to "Colonel Fleming" (a lemming), who was trained to lead his soldiers off a cliff. Many of the "feasts" are fairly ferocious, at times involving animals eating terrified children, in the kind of black humor perfected by Roald Dahl and Hilaire Belloc. Some of the writing is rhythmic and clever (the giraffe named Dizzy Lizzie is "...so tall it makes her proud/For only she can eat a cloud"), but some of the poems suffer from wordiness and dated allusions. For instance, how many children, or even their parents, will get "better dead than Red" in "The Conservative Lobster"? And how many years has it been since any mall sold real alligator handbags? The full-page, superb drawing facing each selection adds a great deal of humor and atmosphere. Searle's animals, many painted with comically exaggerated goggle eyes, are wonderfully expressive and dynamic. Overall, those with tight budgets may want to stick with the many classic collections of animal poems available, like The Beauty of the Beast, selected by Jack Prelutsky (Knopf, 1997). Fans of the prolific and talented Searle may want to consider this title.—Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL

Gr 10 Up—Ford tells a compelling story of how, at age 27, she has finally learned to cope with the social anxiety disorder that has plagued her for most of her life. She describes her family, high school, and college experiences, and the severe depression, compulsive behaviors, and eating disorders that also afflicted her. A clear expository text that gives facts about the disorder and its treatment is interspersed with the narrative. It explains that these separate mental illnesses can go hand in hand with social anxiety disorder, but that everyone who suffers from social anxiety does not necessarily also exhibit signs of other mental illnesses. Ford is equally forthcoming about the low she reached before she sought professional help and her success in controlling her symptoms with a combination of medications and the support of an excellent therapist. An exceptional choice for students and teachers alike, this book is a useful and easy-to-use resource and a gripping memoir.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 4–8—The Fosters present the history of a fictitious whaling town, from its founding in 1683 to its revival as a modern-day coastal city. After describing the villagers' discovery of beached whales and their uses for the oil and baleen, the book traces the beginnings and growth of the whaling industry and its importance to the development of New England towns. Tuckanucket expanded and prospered through the years, overcoming setbacks including war and a devastating fire. When whaling ended in the early 1900s, much of the waterfront was abandoned, until residents took charge, revitalizing the area by creating a museum and offering whale-watching trips. The text reads smoothly and is packed with information. The fine pen-and-watercolor scenes are perfectly suited to the subject matter and successfully depict each era. Cutaway views show the insides of buildings and illustrate each structure's purpose. The roles of specialized workers are fully described, and detailed captions provide explanations of procedures such as constructing an oil cask, making rope, and processing a whale. The time-line format is appealing, and the narrative gives a real sense of the changes New England whaling ports have faced through the years and the diverse individuals who helped build them. This handsome title is an excellent choice for both curricular and recreational use.—Lynne Mattern, Robert Seaman School, Jericho, NY

Gr 5–9—With characteristic polish, documentation, and readability, Freedman examines the evidence for determining who first discovered the Americas. Despite traditional historical emphasis on European discoveries, "tens of millions" of Native Americans were living here when these renowned explorers arrived. The author devotes separate chapters to Columbus's New World voyages, Chinese treasure-ship expeditions under Admiral Zheng He, and the "New World" wanderings of Leif Eriksson and the Vikings. But, with well-established Native American civilizations already in America, the bigger question is where they came from and when. Theories of Stone Age migration, DNA links to other cultures, and the location of carbon-dated artifacts provide clues but no definitive proof about the mysterious origins of the first Americans. This focused, investigative presentation will enhance collections that typically feature individual explorer biographies or descriptions of specific ancient Native American civilizations. Freedman conveys the allure of history and research through anecdotes, archaeological evidence, maps and illustrations, different points of view, and unanswered questions. His "Chapter Notes" and annotated "Selected Bibliography" are informative models of style and technique for young researchers. Students will discover fascinating information as well as a fine example of the research process in this thought-provoking work.—Gerry Larson, Durham School of the Arts, NC

Gr 6–9—This series entry contains 15 articles on the causes of conflict in the Middle East, what might bring peace, and the role the United States should play. The articles were all written within the last four years and represent a variety of political views, including George W. Bush's January 2006 State of the Union address and testimony from Donald Rumsfeld and General Peter Pace at a 2006 Senate Armed Services Committee hearing. Each selection is preceded by a short introduction and questions to consider and concludes with questions to help evaluate the author's arguments. The text is illustrated by full-color photographs, maps and graphs, as well as relevant political cartoons. The book concludes with several lists of facts about the Middle East and terrorist organizations. It is necessarily limited in scope, and would work best as an introduction to the topic, particularly for reluctant researchers.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 4–7—Most people know that Revere was a silversmith, brave patriot, and famed rider for the Revolution, but the author reveals his many other talents, including those as a bell ringer, businessman, cartoonist, print engraver, and even dentist. Giblin captures readers' interest from the beginning: "If things had been different, his name wouldn't have been Paul Revere. It might have been Apollos Rivoire...." He further engages children with interesting details that help create a true feeling for the time period and a deeper understanding of events. The clear writing makes the information accessible for a wide audience. The book is illustrated with numerous reproductions of archival photographs, maps, engravings, and documents that bring the history to life. A section on Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and the text of his famous poem, "Paul Revere's Ride," is included. This impressive, attractive addition to Giblin's award-winning work makes for enjoyable reading in its own right and is invaluable as a resource for researchers. A fascinating account of this multifaceted leader.—Carole Phillips, Greenacres Elementary School, Scarsdale, NY

Gr 3–6—Each title introduces a case and then invites readers to explore how investigators solved it. The narratives are clear, compelling, and dramatic, and will hold children's interest from the lead-in through the police procedures, interviews with witnesses, and gathering of forensic evidence, to the perpetrators' convictions. Color photographs and maps, which fill at least half of each page, enhance the texts. Robbery File, which depicts the theft of two famous van Gogh paintings, is probably the least thrilling of the three. Both Cold Case File and Kidnapping File will appeal to readers who are eager to delve into gruesome details; they are a bit graphic and may raise a few parental eyebrows. However, as there is currently much interest in the forensic sciences and not a great deal that is accessible to younger readers, the books will certainly find an audience.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK

Gr 5–7—After a summary of its geological place in the world, the economic pressures that motivated the European expansion of the 1400s and 1500s, and a brief synopsis of South American history before the arrival of the Europeans, Gorrell takes readers on a whirlwind tour of the continent. She begins with Colombia and the countries along (or next to) the west coast, continues with those on the east, and ends with the Guianas and Venezuela in the north. The author terms her book a sampler, but every chapter is packed with highlights, descriptions, and poetry in the narrative, in boxes, and in captions. The engaging prose includes descriptions of the unique animals and plants of each country and—coupled with Krystoforski's vividly colored, jaunty maps and pen-and-ink drawings of everything from sailing ships to tango dancers-encourages readers to peruse every page.—Frances E. Millhouser, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA

Gr 7 Up—Numerous encylopedias cover the experiences of women in the United States, among them Doris L. Weatherford's A History of Women in the United States (Grolier, 2003) and Nancy Cott's highly academic No Small Courage (Oxford Univ., 2004). Few such reference titles are as user-friendly and as well suited to middle and high school use. Using popular culture as a lens, each book addresses stereotypes of femininity. Gourley clearly shows that women have been consistently faced with role expectations that stem from diametrically opposed views of what they should be. Organized chronologically, the sparkling and engaging texts are generously expanded by numerous, well-placed black-and-white photographs and period reproductions from magazine advertisements, handbills, government propaganda, radio, and television. The titles give ample indication of the divide—the lovely, corseted Gibson Girl contrasts with the militant suffragist in the same way that Rosie the Riveter puts the smiling postwar housewife, concerned only with husband and family, in relief. Stories of women who either exemplified conventional behaviors or changed them are presented in sidebars or incorporated seamlessly into the narratives. With their wonderful use of primary-source information and documentation, these books are great for research or browsing, and they are sure to pique readers' interest in the history of gender in this country.—Ann Welton, Helen B. Stafford Elementary, Tacoma, WA

Gr 5–8—Graham has done an able job of showing Edison's brilliance and his eccentricities. The book comes with a password permitting access to a Webliography of related online documents and report resources, and the publisher promises to maintain the list for at least five years. Many of the illustrations resemble Web pages, enticing readers to pursue the topic even after finishing the text. Readers who enjoyed Margaret Frith's Who Was Thomas Alva Edison? (Grosset and Dunlap, 2005) will transition well into this slightly more complex biography, which will augment both report and leisure-reading collections.—Tracy H. Chrenka, Forest Hills Public Schools, Grand Rapids, MI

Gr 5–8—These series titles take readers into the wild and under the sea for up-close-and-personal overviews. Each book covers the characteristics and unique traits of the subject animals and includes colorful, awe-inspiring photos and immediate first-person narratives. Hall, a diver and filmmaker, looks at 32 species of dolphins and 6 porpoise species, examining body features, echolocation, why they jump, and their keen intelligence. Hunt mostly focuses on the polar bear, black bear, and grizzly, but also includes lesser-known species such as the moon bear and spectacled bear. León looks at the socialization styles of killer whales, also known as orcas, such as whether they live in pods or solo, how they hunt, and what they eat depending on availability of food sources. All three books provide glimpses at how humans have interacted with these animals. The last chapter addresses their shrinking habitats and food supplies and how individuals can work to save the creatures. John Bonnett Wexo's "Zoobook" series (Wildlife Education) covers some of the same factual information but does not include the personal stories that this series presents.—Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio, TX

Gr 9 Up—A stunning textured cover, with the title in gold typeface, will attract fantasy and dragon fans to this sophisticated book. In the comprehensive art instruction that follows, teens will discover how drawing dragons begins with basic shapes and the gradual addition of lines and features. Black-and-white sketches and full-color illustrations (nearly two dozen are full page), bring to life the enormous creatures. Artists will develop more understanding of the dragon head, eye, skull, fire-breathing techniques, horns, body, basic anatomy, skeleton, spine, tail, claws, textures, wings, and so much more. Various species are discussed, including the thorn dragon, the hydra, the colossus, and hellworms. Other topics mentioned are birth, lairs, death, battle between man and beast, and poachers. There are two foldout pages and boxes of text covering inking drawings, shading, coloring fire, rare breeds, the tail in action, and attenuated spikes. Typeface for labeling drawings is very small, and there are a few typos. A good addition for serious artists and dragon fans.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—Hasday introduces readers to the landmark Supreme Court cases leading up to the Civil Rights Movement. Subsequent chapters chronicle the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Montgomery bus boycott, lunch counter sit-ins, school integration in Little Rock, the Freedom Riders, and the March on Washington. Renehan begins his history with the celebration at Promontory Summit in Utah when the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads met to unite America's Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Then he backtracks to explain the legislation, corruption, and complications that happened along the way. One chapter is devoted to describing the lives of the Chinese and Irish immigrants who built the railroad. The author's writing style is quite complex and includes many lengthy quotes from period sources, which may prove too difficult for some students. Both titles include average-quality, black-and-white photos and sidebars featuring noteworthy individuals. While the books provide thorough overviews of their subjects, the unappealing layout and lack of color is unlikely to attract general readers. More enticing choices include Diane McWhorter's A Dream of Freedom: The Civil Rights Movement from 1954 to 1968 (Scholastic, 2004) and, for a slightly younger audience, Rhoda Blumberg's Full Steam Ahead: The Race to Build a Transcontinental Railroad (National Geographic, 1996).—Jackie Partch, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Gr 4–7—These titles, each of which includes a craft and numerous full-color, full-page illustrations, discuss the Muslim observance of Ramadan and the Hindu holiday of Diwali. Both books are far longer and more detailed than anything else in print for children on this subject. Unfortunately, this does not make them outstanding in any way. Both omit key terms from their glossaries, and there are no pronunciation guides. They contain unclear statements (for example, "About 65 percent of the population [of South Africa] is Hindu"); inconsistencies (including the use of both "CE" and "AD" with reference to time); and mistakes (in Ramadan, Isaac is named as the son that Abraham was commanded to sacrifice, whereas Muslims believe that it was Ishmael); and footnoting is often inaccurate. The maps are sloppily drawn and incomplete. The writing in Ramadan is choppy and has surprisingly little depth considering its length. Also, the final chapter and large portions of two others focus on Islamic extremism and the religion's connection with politics and terrorism, which, while interesting, is hardly relevant to the series. Diwali is wordy and repetitious, and much of the material is no more than filler. Plum-Ucci insultingly calls Sikhs "a group of Hindu worshipers" instead of acknowledging them as having their own religion. (Jains also observe Diwali, a fact she omits.)—Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

Gr 4–6—Beginning with the fertilization of a frog egg, this title presents the basics of cytology. Readers learn about the parts of cells, the steps of cell division, and special types of cells and their functions. One section explains how stem cells are unique and helpful in scientific research but doesn't mention the controversy related to their use. Cartoonlike illustrations, diagrams, and colorful, high-quality micrographs enhance the text. To make abstract concepts more understandable for readers, Johnson makes effective use of similes, metaphors, and analogies ("If cells were computers, the nucleus would be the cell's hard drive"). Students who pick up the book will find a readable introduction to a sometimes-dry topic, along with some amazing facts ("Every second, your liver and spleen destroy 2.5 million red blood cells"). This title is more accessible than Darlene R. Stille's Animal Cells: The Smallest Units of Life (Compass Point, 2006).—Jackie Partch, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Gr 5–8—This well-written and informative biography weaves facts about Hinton's life with analyses of and reflections on her novels. What emerges is an interesting portrait of a gifted writer whose work continues to touch young people. A section entitled "In Her Own Words" provides further insight through speeches and interviews. A few photos of the author are scattered throughout. There are also several movie stills from film adaptations of her books, which feature some young actors who later became major stars, such as Matt Dillon, Tom Cruise, and Nicolas Cage. Familiarity with Hinton's work will make this a more compelling read although it could also serve as an introduction to the author and stimulate an interest in seeking out her enduring classics.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 4–7—Eye-catching in a gruesome way, these books cover, in four chapters each, the history of the various monsters throughout the world, as well as their representation in books, movies, and popular culture. All of them have abundant, full-color photos and illustrations. Krensky defines Bogeyman as a catchall name for any scary creature that is out to get people. He provides interesting descriptions of bogeymen from various countries and cultures and explains how they are often used to make children behave. Some of the illustrations are really frightening, and children who like this sort of thing will be enthralled by the gory details. Creatures, the least sensational of the books, discusses legendary sea beasts and includes factual information about the coelacanth, the giant squid, and Loch Ness Monster sightings. In Zombies, Krensky sometimes fails to distinguish between fact and legend, leaving readers wondering if voodoo priests really create zombies in Haiti. The author's conversational writing style and tendency toward speculation and sensationalism make these books good choices for recreational reading rather than for school reports.—Marcia Kochel, Olson Middle School, Bloomington, MN

Gr 5–9—Krensky intersperses capsule summaries of comics mainstays with glimpses of the decades that changed the commercial desires of the audiences who read and connected with these characters. The text is intended for those with less than a passing familiarity with U.S. history and curiously summarizes events like the Great Depression and the origin story of Captain Marvel with equal dispatch. It's a difficult balance, providing both content and context, and the volume falters regularly, unintentionally making one or the other seem trivial in comparison. It is not aided by the book's design, which mimics key aspects of comics' visual traditions: the pages are backed with an image representing the four-color screening process with which comics were traditionally printed, and the text is presented in solid boxes representing the panels in which graphic narratives are told. The net effect is that the content feels choppy and isolated, as if each box should contain a unique topic. Much of the artwork is less than representative; the largely unknown character the Destroyer is given a prominence out of step with historical significance, and the reprinting of two Buster Brown strips fails to demonstrate the plurality of offerings of the time. For all the vignettes of key characters, the narrative doesn't provide a convincing argument that they should be recognizable or that they connect integrally to the flow of American popular history.—Benjamin Russell, Belmont High School, NH

Gr 5–7—A chatty, informative text is nicely larded with Lynch's personal experiences, which lend a real immediacy to the author's exploration of America's largest wetland and its many ecological niches. "ECO-Fact" boxes pop up like grasshoppers in a meadow, proffering data on a wide variety of topics, from local rainfall amounts to marsh rabbits to native orchids. Handsome color photos appear on every page, and a small map is included for geographic orientation. This attractive portrayal of a unique biome is sadly marred by some mislabeled photos. One identifies a Snowy Egret as a Yellow-crowned Night-Heron; another labeled as a Black-crowned Night-Heron is actually a Yellow-crowned. Yet another makes it sound as though a water strider has only four legs (they have four really long ones, but two shorter ones make up the insect quota of six). Daniel Blaustein's The Everglades and the Gulf Coast (Benchmark, 2000) covers much of the same ground (with more of an emphasis on human effects), but lacks the engaging personal touch of this very readable, eye-catching work.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 10 Up—Nye describes real-life experiences that she has had in her middle and high school years, and as she has traveled as an adult. Most tales center on brief encounters with strangers. These relationships vary from intimate connections, as in the ride with a fellow Bruce Springsteen fan to general dislike, as in the strained car ride with a rich elderly couple. But what they all have in common is a change in perspective as a result of the encounter. The pacing is quick and lively, and Nye's accessible voice is entertaining. Despite the brevity of the pieces, the people are well drawn and settings are well crafted; the descriptions and interactions conjure up a clear mental image of both personality and place. While most of these pieces seem tailored to appeal to adults, teens will identify with the immediate connections that can occur among strangers.—Lynn Rashid, Marriots Ridge High School, Marriotsville, MD

Gr 3–6—Colorful illustrations, an attractive and uncrowded design, subjects of interest to kids, and fascinating details all combine in this book. The table of contents has images for each general category, such as "Astronomy," "Weather," "Nature," and "Sports." A "Useful Things" section includes intriguing articles on "Mayonnaise Magic," "Home Cooking," and creating a time capsule. In addition, for almost every article, there is an activity or project that can be accessed at the Almanac Web site. For example, the article on cacti includes a link to relevant national parks. This entertaining, interactive book will lead children into an exploration of diverse topics.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

Gr 4–8—"Come meet Jack Pine. You'll never see,/with luck, a tree less lovely than-/a tree more bent, more squat, more grim,/more weird and ugly than—Jack Pine." Patton uses blank verse to introduce this homely, undervalued variety of tree. He compares it to the more commonly favored White Pine, Red Pine, and Pitch Pine trees—all now greatly reduced in number throughout North America. He then focuses on one Jack Pine, lonely and despised by a farmer who finally builds a ring of fire around it. Though the fire does destroy the tree, it also causes its long-shut cones to open and release their seeds to grow into a whole new stand of trees. Young's artwork consists of layers of white and more weathered-looking bits of paper combined with assorted pencil, pen, and watercolor etchings. The generous use of white space invites readers to savor the poetic lines and the visual poetry as well. A strong contention of the tribute to the Jack Pine, reiterated in the final page of factual information, is that this species actually protects the growth of the other trees. The poetry seems more likely to resonate with adults, but it reads aloud well and could be used to invite discussion or to introduce a variety of natural-history topics.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 3–6—Kicking off a new series, these books-geared toward readers with no background in mythology-recap the most famous myths surrounding their subjects. Zeus is the least successful, in part because of the difficulty of dealing with the figure's multiple affairs in books for a young audience, and because Roberts makes vague, generalized, and debatable statements. (He claims that the Greeks were the first to include real-world sites and references in their mythology, as well as the first to have beautiful, human-shaped gods.) Jason is the best of the three; the story of the Argonauts is clear and incorporates quotes from Euripides, Homer, and Apollonius, as well as modern scholars. The photographs in all three books are excellent, depicting statues and paintings that tie into the myths. Pronunciations are provided within the text, though sometimes these are also debatable: Circe is listed as SIR-see, rather than KIR-kee, for example. Jason also leaves out the recent archaeological expeditions that show that an early Greek ship did, in fact, travel the Black Sea. While great in concept, these books should be considered additional purchases for libraries expanding their mythology collections.—Alana Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT

Gr 5–7—A strong introduction presents information about the evolution, physical features, and development of the American crocodile, leveled at report writers' need for basic information. The book explains that the findings of scientists such as wildlife-research ecologist Dr. Frank Mazzotti belie fears that this reptile is a maniacal killer worthy of annihilation. The bloodlust fallacy, partly due to urban myths and gory photographs falsely attributed to these shy beasts, has helped hunters who have killed more than 20 million crocodilians (crocodiles, alligators, and the Indian gharial) worldwide over the past 50 years. The realities of habitat loss, limited range, and various factors involving human encroachment paint a worrisome picture. Current efforts to protect the species, and steps that should be taken, are enumerated. Unfortunately, Crocodile lacks pizzazz. It contains small illustrations selected from a variety of photographic sources and the result, paired with text, is a mundane, unoriginal read useful only to report writers. Sandra Markle's Crocodiles (Carolrhoda, 2004) pairs intense clarity in photography and text, and David Alderton's Crocodiles and Alligators of the World (Facts On File, 2004) provides more comprehensive coverage.—Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA

Gr 6–10—This biography shows both the complexity of the man and the importance of his work as the leader of a team of scientists who created the atom bomb. Scherer and Fletcher emphasize Oppenheimer's concerns that these bombs would destroy civilization, stating, "it is difficult…to find anything positive about the invention, or development, of the atomic bomb." Mentioning that the Japanese were not warned, and that the U.S. was "impatient for a response," the authors imply that the Japanese were attacked a second time because they were confused by Hiroshima. They emphasize the human cost, stating that 95 percent of those who died were civilians. The featured Internet sources provide balance in the form of additional perspectives, including many primary documents. They offer reports, photos, and films featuring Oppenheimer and information concerning the atom bomb. Four activities explore the atom and the impact of a bomb on a city and an individual. This book is a good choice for libraries.—Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

Gr 4–8—Molly Whuppie, "being herself and no one else," has adventures previously reserved for male heroes. Way back in the woods and way back in time, Molly must protect the Queen from wicked giants and rescue her sisters with a silver needle and golden thread. She has a slingshot that can't miss and a magic fiddle that makes everyone dance. While working for a giant, she saves a boy named Jack, and they escape on the giant's own horse. She marries Jack, who trades away the cow (but not for magic beans), and sets out to find three men as foolish as her husband. Molly Whuppie grows up and grows old with bravery, cleverness, and compassion. While other folktales are included, the "Molly Whuppie" stories are the heart of the collection. Shelby has captured the language of Appalachia with "those surprising turns of phrase, so old they sound fresh again" and demonstrated the enduring strength of the oral tradition. Her adaptations are true to the traditional folktales while avoiding stereotypes, cultural prejudices, and some gory details. Young readers and listeners will make these stories their own and enjoy retelling them for a long time to come.—Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN

Gr 7–10—These books show how technological advances have allowed humans to go beyond what the eye can see. Each one shares the same general outline, delving into the history of the invention, the science behind it, and how it has impacted society. While the history of the X-ray and how it initially put unwitting scientists in harm's way, and the story of the telescope and Galileo's trial will interest readers, they may get bogged down in the scientific details of these inventions. Even so, these books have a lively format, with informatively captioned, relevant pictures. Chapters are usable individually, though a thorough understanding of the topics can only be gleaned by reading the entire books.—Esther Keller, I.S. 278, Marine Park, NY

Gr 4–8—From the menacing pit viper on the cover to the various scorpions, ants, bees, wasps, cone shells, sea jellies, snakes, spiders, and other poisonous critters that skitter and slither across the pages, this volume looks at the world of venom. Different biotoxins and their effects on other life-forms (including humans) are discussed in the conversational text, which is broken into segments clustered under sectional names (e.g., "This Cane is a Pain"—cane toads-appears in "Poisoners in the Pond"). Information boxes advise readers on such varied topics as treating sea-jelly stings (called "jellyfish" here) and toxic birds. Sharp, full-color photos loaded with icky details are sure to catch readers' eyes and hold their interest. A detailed index will help researchers pull scattered data together, and the extensive glossary will enrich the vocabulary of report writers. Singer also presents a bibliography of works consulted and a humongous "Webliography" that will have Internet-savvy kids glued to their monitors. Not as well organized as Nathan Aaseng's Poisonous Creatures (21st Century Bks., 1997), but richer than Hans D. Dossenbach's colorful Beware! We Are Poisonous: How Animals Defend Themselves (Gale, 1998), this book will attract the curious of mind and enrich information seekers.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 9 Up—This exhaustive guide features interviews with adoptees, essays by adoptive and birth parents, as well as information on famous adoptees, statistics, and other facts about adoption. Slade offers comprehensive coverage on topics such as transracial, international, and open adoptions, and the pros and cons of seeking information about their birth parents. The book is a valuable resource, especially for older teens who crave solid advice about how to gather information that may lead to a reunion with their biological relatives. It is especially useful for those making decisions about whether to embark on such a search, offering lists of the "best" and "worst" possible outcomes from establishing contact with birth families, as well as "tips for a successful first meeting…." Slade's writing reflects her sensitivity toward all parties involved in adoption, preparing teens for potentially hurtful questions, such as, "Do you know where your real parents are?" The black-and-white photos of adoptees, highlighted sections, and graphics sprinkled throughout add to the book's appeal. —Deborah Vose, Highlands Elementary School, Braintree, MA

Gr 8 Up—A professional magician shares some of his secrets and tricks of the trade that readers with a lot of patience and practice will be able to replicate. Step-by-step instructions accompany the illustrations, fully describing the action and giving performance tips. Entertaining asides offer tidbits about the history of magic and of playing cards. The tricks are arranged in order of difficulty. The wire-bound binding enables readers to lay the book flat, freeing their hands to try the tricks. There is a section on telling fortunes with cards that is definitely for more mature audiences, mentioning marriage, murder, lovers, and such.—Cynde Suite, Bartow County Library System, Adairsville, GA

Gr 4–8—History and biography are combined with hands-on projects in this introduction to the man and his inventions. Each chapter features one or more of Franklin's creations but opens with biographical background of the relevant phase of his life, along with anecdotes and fun facts. The chapter on the armonica, for instance, covers Franklin's time as ambassador to England, describes his lifelong interest in music, and also includes lyrics to a song he wrote for his wife and a reference to a "virtual armonica" Web site. This multilayered approach is engaging, and, over the course of the book, readers get a good feel for Franklin's life and personality. The lively narrative includes a rich variety of his words, thoughts, and experiences, with many quotes from Franklin's autobiography and letters. Illustrations include mediocre black-and-white drawings and a handful of uninspiring archival photos. Each chapter ends with at least one project, and some are more intriguing than others. Level of difficulty varies: the "feather pen" is a two-step, five-minute activity, while the more intriguing "long arm" requires more supplies and adult help. Most readers will find something to try here, and the narrative presents an appealing and informative look at this fascinating figure.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 3–6—A horde of Brainwaves skitters about the oversize pages delineating body parts and systems. These tiny figures dressed in one-piece hooded suits parachute out of the sinus cavities, cycle over the cranium, and strum guitars and play percussion in a blood-type rock quartet, all the while commenting humorously (and informatively) on bodily processes and reactions. Large (some double foldouts) cartoon illustrations provide peeks at ears, eyes, lymph nodes, and gastrointestinal bacteria. All are accompanied by informative labels and captions, and the quips of those busy Brainwaves. The digestive-system section includes mention of fecal material, and the circulatory system foldout discusses urine, but the reproductive system is left to the imagination. For a more scientific look at the human organism, try Richard Walker's DK Guide to the Human Body (2004), illustrated with electron microscope photos. Still, this lighthearted endeavor (though more seriously informative than those scampering Brainwaves might lead you to surmise) and those huge foldouts (while probably ephemeral) are attractive trolling bait for readers.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 7 Up—This volume offers an overview of the health-care industry, a look at different careers, ideas for getting experience, and additional resources. Several job choices are covered in general, including some that might not immediately come to mind, such as medical writing and editing. Each entry has a summary, "Lingo to Learn," requirements, and interviews with practitioners. The text also contains numerous sidebars with topics such as related jobs and advancement possibilities. The layout is attractive, the font a good size, and the information accessible. The last section is chock-full of associations, camps and other learning opportunities, and scholarship ideas for students wanting to pursue this field. An excellent addition.—Robin Henry, Griffin Middle School, Frisco, TX

Gr 7–10—While this series name might make readers think of popular TV shows, these books are really about how all parts of law enforcement work together to put criminals behind bars. Both have an open format, good documentation, and many full-color photos. "By the Numbers" boxes are sprinkled throughout, and additional information is highlighted in bold green shaded areas. Green River Killer focuses on the 20-year manhunt to put away Gary Ridgway, who ultimately confessed to killing more than 40 women. When the search for the killer first began, forensic science was limited. It was only after technology improved that the police could definitively end Ridgway's reign of terror. The text is fast moving and compelling. Tracking Serial Killers overlaps with the first title a bit, but focuses on the broader techniques, such as profiling, DNA testing, and other high-tech tactics. While it has many anecdotes about different cases like Son of Sam, Ted Bundy, and Jeffrey Dahmer, the broad references to police techniques make the narration a little more sluggish. Given the nature of the subject, some of the details are a bit unsettling. Even so, reluctant readers will be fascinated as they discover how the police track and capture America's most wanted criminals.—Esther Keller, I.S. 278, Marine Park, NY