Grades 5 & Up

Gr 5–8—Retirement mecca St. Petersburg provides the perfect backdrop for Abbot's mystery. Jason, 13, flies down to Florida to help his dad settle his grandmother's estate. Worried about his parents' marriage and disgusted with the heat and totally bored, he is intrigued when he finds an old postcard of his grandmother's. A hotel on it is the same one that appears in a mystery in an old magazine that he also finds in her house. The stories star someone called Marnie, a name that the funeral director calls Jason's grandmother, Agnes. Jason suspects that it wasn't a slip of the tongue after all, and that the tales really feature his grandmother. A mysterious phone call leads the teen and his new friend Dia to follow a trail of vintage postcards through local landmarks. Abbott's gift for creating complicated, realistic young characters is evident in Jason, but he is joined by stock characters from the pages of an old gumshoe mystery. The contrast between Jason's real adolescent angst and the clichéd mystery woven throughout makes each element seem richer. The surprise ending to the mystery and the not-so-surprising ending to Jason's real-life drama are quite satisfying. While less-sophisticated readers might be confused by the scene switches caused by the story-within-a-story format, many will enjoy this novel.—Nicki Clausen-Grace, Carillon Elementary School, Oviedo, FL

Gr 8 Up—Six top teen authors have contributed stories to this winning collection. Abrahams has written a modern ghost story, Libba Bray tells of a wild night partying with friends that changes a girl's relationship with her estranged father, and David Levithan gives readers a magical take on life in the city. Patricia McCormick takes a hard look at freedom and power, Sarah Weeks writes of responsibility with humor, and Yang tops off the book in his own graphic-novel style. Each story shines in its own way, giving teens a whole new appreciation for the short-story format. The selections as a whole become much more than they would be separately, exploring the darkest edges of night and the glory of emerging changed into the light of the new day. The authors' names alone will get teens to pick up this book, but it is the writing that will impress them the most.—Tasha Saecker, Menasha Public Library, WI

Gr 5–8—Caroline's mom is Jewish and her dad is Christian. Like many interfaith kids, she knows little about either heritage and practices no religion. When her Nana dies and leaves her a Star of David necklace, Caroline begins to question her identity. Her friend Rachel is preparing for her Bat Mitzvah ceremony, and this, combined with Nana's legacy, spurs Caroline toward embracing Judaism. Both at home and at school, she struggles with such issues as acceptance of Jews by the wider society, what it means to "look Jewish" or to be "too Jewish," and what it means to be authentically Jewish. These themes are seamlessly woven with threads about school, boys, and popularity, and with the theme of bereavement. The story is told by Caroline in a series of short, delicately rendered scenes. Her voice is natural and draws readers in effortlessly. Those who are more observant may be disappointed that Caroline does not travel further in her journey, but she does make the critical first step of seeing herself as Jewish. Jewish and interfaith readers will find much to relate to and recognize here, while others will gain an inside perspective on the feeling of belonging to a minority group.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

Gr 6–9—Hildy Biddle, high school reporter for The Core, has her hands full following the story of a ghost haunting the old Ludlow place. Life in her sleepy apple-valley town is upset like the proverbial apple cart when a dead body turns up in the Ludlow orchard and enigmatic warnings are scrawled on the door—"YOU DIDN'T THINK IT WAS SAFE, DID YOU?" Rumors fly and fear mounts as Pen Piedmont, editor of the town newspaper, The Bee, prints ever more sensational stories about the eerie goings-on. Hildy, her fellow intrepid high school reporters, and their seasoned newshound adviser are determined to uncover the truth. When they ask the right questions of the wrong people, the principal caves in to threats of litigation from Piedmont and shuts The Core down. Unlikely help comes from café owner and Polish immigrant Minska, whose experience with an underground press inspires them to start an independent news sheet, The Peel, and reveal the true villain. Peeled is vintage Bauer, a warm and funny story full of likable, offbeat characters led by a strongly voiced, independently minded female protagonist on her way to genuine, well-earned maturity. Bauer seasons Hildy's story with the high school homecoming dance, a budding romance, strong friend and family ties, and a host of quirky characters, then serves it up in quick-paced prose juicy with apple metaphors. A-peeling all around!—Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 9 Up—Indigo Skye, an average high school senior, works part-time as a waitress at a small diner, where she gets to know and love a group of quirky "Irregulars" who frequent the place. She leads a happy but ordinary life until the day a customer, in return for a small kindness, leaves her a $2.5 million tip. This story follows Indigo's struggle to remain true to herself and to fight all the negative side effects of instant wealth. Right from the beginning, Caletti is able to distinguish her extensive cast of characters by relating their memorable and endearing eccentricities. Indigo, especially, is a multilayered and complicated protagonist. Although the premise seems a bit far-fetched, the characters' actions and dialogue keep this story real. Humor is sprinkled in with the more serious, philosophical questions and Indigo's emotions are expertly conveyed. While the theme of money as a potential corrupter is effective, it is stated outright too frequently instead of allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. Filled with rich characters and hilarious interactions mixed with Indigo's astute perceptions of conformity and frivolous wealth, this book encourages thought and examination of what is truly important in life.—Jessie Spalding, Queen Creek Branch Library, AZ

Gr 5–8—Elvira is a feisty, stubborn 13-year-old living in New Hope, NC. She has a younger sister, Kerrie, who drives her crazy. Elvira and her mother, Mel, often bicker like two schoolgirls, and her father, Tony, is an Elvis impersonator. When Mel discovers she is pregnant, she and Tony fight about an important Elvis contest in Las Vegas, and he leaves with his blue suede shoes, tight white jeans, and Brylcreem. Mel receives a phone message from her estranged sister, Clare, which prompts her to pack up the 1957 DeSoto Fireflite (with license plate reading "ELVIS LVS") and take the girls on a road trip "home" to Memphis. The journey, of course, results in Elvira meeting family she never knew. She gains a new appreciation for her mother, discovers traits that she and her grandmother share, and finds the home she has been craving. Tony also comes to Memphis with the realization that his family is more important than an Elvis competition. Strong character development, snappy dialogue, and humorous situations carry this novel. While the central plot is ultimately predictable and not particularly fresh, readers will enjoy Elvira's voice and the humor, and just might want to find out more about Elvis Presley.—Jennifer Ralston, Harford County Public Library, Belcamp, MD

Gr 4–6—Donavan, introduced in Donavan's Word Jar (HarperCollins, 1994), ponders problems and develops workable solutions with the help of supportive friends and family. Now in fourth grade, he and friends Pooh and Eric are eagerly anticipating Heritage Month. The boys vie to become "greeters," but the administration insists on fifth graders for that coveted role. Donavan attacks his "math block" with help from his dad, his younger sister, and his uncle. The other main story line revolves around Uncle Vic, who recently lost his legs in a war. Donavan expresses painfully human feelings about his relative, including being uncomfortable around him. He neglects to communicate messages back and forth from the office to his family about getting his uncle involved in Heritage Month, and eventually gets caught and chastised. The conclusion finds the math strategies working and Uncle Vic finding his way in his new life. Though the story is slightly didactic, students will feel the love of the boy's African-American family and empathize with his academic struggles. Bates's pencil sketches reflect the emotion and warmth of this story.—Debbie Whitbeck, West Ottawa Public Schools, Holland, MI

Gr 8 Up—For the last five years, Allison, 17, has struggled to forget the town of Meridian where she lived with her family in a torturous and apocalyptic cult. But after receiving a mysterious email message about the death of Harold, another of the five children who survived the fire that ended the Divine Path, Allison sneaks out of her foster home to attend his funeral. The cult leader's last prophecy warned the children of their own deaths in five years' time. Allison's epileptic seizures, accompanied by visions of her friends' deaths, seem to confirm his prophecies. One by one, three of the five are murdered, leaving Allison and her love interest, David, to solve the mystery and end the killing. Fahy creates a page-turning horror story that will attract fans of mystery and suspense. However, the characters' reactions to their terrifying circumstances are too trite and illogical to be believed. The ending is neat and tidy, but will not pass the scrutiny of more sophisticated readers. Recommend to teens looking for a quick, gruesome read.—Lynn Rashid, Marriots Ridge High School, Marriotsville, MD

Gr 5–7—Mark Aldrich is a New Jersey seventh grader who starts investigating paranormal phenomena after a mysterious ball of light appears in a photo he took at a historical monument. He begins looking into stories of ghosts, aliens, and monsters—plus all of the bizarre things people do—and decides to found a Weird Club at his school. He talks to his grandfather, who lives next to the Pine Barrens, about the Jersey Devil, and they search for signs of the creature. Meanwhile, other kids begin to join the club and share stories of their own; a boy who used to live in San Antonio, for example, tells tall tales from Texas. The Weird Club uses a fictional frame to enclose a collection of actual urban legends and regional folklore, with a lot of full-color photos of things such as a (real) street sign for "Shades of Death Road" in Warren County, NJ. In both intent and execution, the book is similar to Michael Teitelbaum's The Scary States of America (Delacorte, 2007), but Fairbanks focuses mainly on the Weird in his home state.—Walter Minkel, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—After Brandon asks 17-year-old Kate, the Future Business Leaders of America copresident, to be his date at the sports banquet, she enjoys popularity and notoriety. Surprised that she could land the school's most eligible bachelor, and certain that she has some kind of trade secret for scoring dates, her classmates begin asking her for advice. Sensing a business opportunity, Kate and her friend Jason launch a matchmaking service based on what Kate terms a "Six Point Plan: A Hexagon for Hooking Hotties." Ferraro's novel is a romance in the style of the offerings from Smoochya and "Simon Romantic Comedies." Secondary plots involve Kate's dream of becoming a millionaire by age 20, her relationship with her estranged mother, and her concern for the girl she babysits, who has problems with her own family. While these add variety to the story, the emphasis is on the dating business, and Kate's growing feelings for Jason. The first-person narrative moves quickly though superficially; the secondary plots are never explored in any great depth, making the conclusion—in which all of these narrative strands are resolved—feel a bit too pat. Still, romance novels are inherently fantasies of a sort and, as such, Ferraro's book is satisfying.—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 9 Up—In 1941, Ruby Jacinski, 15, quits school and works at a meatpacking plant to support her ailing mother and her sister. Her life changes dramatically when Paulie, a handsome young man with a terrible reputation, takes an interest in her and encourages her to pursue a job at the Starlight Dance Academy. There, she can earn a lot of money, get her family out of debt, and live a more exciting life by dancing with lonely men. For someone who loves to dance, the job is a dream come true, but Ruby soon learns that it comes with a price. She lies to her mother and tries to avoid the constant hustle and manipulation from both the customers and her coworkers. As she continues to turn to Paulie for protection and advice, she gets caught up in the seedier side of Chicago's poor Back of the Yards district. This is a unique look at U.S. social history. Ruby is tough, strong, and determined, but maintains the innocent and idealistic dreams of adolescence, thus endearing her to readers. The grittier side of Chicago nightlife and the harsh pressures on wartime youth to mature quickly are well delineated. This intriguing story is well paced and well researched.—Kimberly Monaghan, formerly at Vernon Area Public Library, IL

Gr 6–10—Lysander is a slave in Sparta. His one valuable possession is a mysterious amulet, called the Fire of Ares, handed down from his dead father whose true identity he never knew. After it is stolen by warriors, one of the most powerful men in Sparta comes to Lysander's aid, and the man realizes that the amulet belonged to his son, a Spartan warrior, and suspects that the boy is his grandson. Once confirmed, he puts an end to the boy's backbreaking fieldwork and enrolls him in Spartan warrior training. Lysander's dying mother, a slave who did not reveal her son's paternity to keep him safe from those who hate mythokes, or "half-breeds," begins to receive care. Lysander meets with prejudice and anger from his fellow students, one of whom he is sure stole the amulet. He must continually prove himself until at last he prevails at the annual games, beating his tormentors. Ford's engaging work weaves information about ancient Greek customs into the story of an underdog who triumphs. The characters are stereotypes, but recognizable ones with whom readers will feel comfortable. The author doesn't sugarcoat the abusive treatment of slaves by Spartans or of the young warriors by their teachers, and mythology and fact intermingle well in the characters' names. Give this to fans of the movies Gladiator and 300.—Lisa Prolman, Greenfield Public Library, MA

Gr 9 Up—Norse legend is revisited in this tale of Dark elves, called Niflghar, who kidnap humans to use as slaves in their underground world. When one of the cities of Ever-Ice, Ouvahlor, attacks one of the cities of Olone, Talonnorn, chaos itself is unleashed. In Talonnorn, ruled by all-powerful crones and priestesses, the old order is overthrown and a bloodbath begins. Out of this instability rises the hope of the Dark Warrior, a human slave named Orivon, who will bring freedom and equality to all, including his captor and tormentor, Taerune Evendoom, who was once of the ruling class but was cast out after being injured in battle. In a world of darkness, magic, and ravening beasts, readers will be drawn to Orivon, who is trying to find his way back home to the BlindingBright, and to Taerune, who loves him despite their differences.—June H. Keuhn, Corning East High School, NY

Gr 9 Up—Since his father came out and his mother took off, Ben Campbell has been in trouble, smoking pot, getting arrested—the usual array of angry bad-boy behavior. In an effort to put him on the right path, his dad and his dad's partner, Edward, decide to move the family from Spokane to Edward's hometown in Montana. Rough Butte, population 463, is full of farmers, ranchers, and Miss Mae, Edward's tough country mama. Ben is out of his element in the extreme, and has a hard time adjusting until he meets Kimberly Johan, a neighbor who steals his heart and makes him want to be a part of Big Sky country. Although the novel wraps up a little too neatly, it is filled with atypical character interactions that make it an excellent read. Ben's anger at his father for destroying their original family and failing to be a "regular" dad is potent and raw, as is his language. His father's fear that Ben is becoming homophobic turns to paranoia and mistrust, and the two nearly part ways permanently. Ben also struggles with the differences between what he sees as child abuse and what most of the Montanans consider simple discipline as he befriends his young neighbor, who is in desperate need of someone's help. And, finally, Ben must conquer the town's teen villain who has an unhealthy obsession with Kimberly and a penchant for arson. It may sound like a lot of plot for one book, and it is, but Harmon makes it work with believable characters, Ben's biting wit, and solid lessons about acceptance and responsibility.—Nora G. Murphy, Los Angeles Academy Middle School

Gr 4–6—Herrick follows one year in an Australian classroom with a nerdy, hippie, caring, and unconventional teacher. Told in multiple voices, including those of J-man the rapper, Jason the good kisser, Peter the boy with the talking bottom, and Emily the ballerina, the novel captures the humor and unpredictability of 11- and 12-year-olds. Mr. Carey fosters a sense of community in which all of his students are encouraged to find out who they are and what they're good at. The children suggest cocurricular activities (one kid jokingly offers naked bunyip dancing—but for bunyips only). Readers will need to look up "bunyip" to understand the humor and innocence of the title. The book culminates in the show that the class puts on for families and friends. The terse free verse, in short clear lines, is easily accessible. Funny, with some touches of poignancy, especially in one child's feelings about her parents' separation, this is a light, breezy glance at a sixth-grade classroom with a nurturing teacher. Educators will enjoy reading about the success of Mr. Carey's approach of valuing each student and letting the classmates have a voice in the direction their learning takes. References to pop stars give the book a contemporary feel, while some Australian terms may need deciphering. The childlike, black-and-white illustrations are reminiscent of the drawings of Shel Silverstein and complement the narrative.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 5–8—A secret pawnbroker, Joe Zabbidou pays for secrets, and everyone has one. Ludlow Fitch, escaping his parents' efforts to sell the teeth from his mouth, meets Joe in the desolate mountain village of Pagus Parvus. It is an ideal place for Joe as miserly Jeremiah Ratchet uses people's transgressions to blackmail and cheat them. Joe offers young Ludlow a job transcribing confessions into Joe's Black Book. Desperate individuals declare they are grave robbers, thieves, even murderers, and are freed by their confessions. As folk unburden their secrets, mass hatred for Ratchet begins to foment, and later Joe himself becomes a target. A tightly woven novel, Black Book grabs readers from the first image of Ludlow protecting his vulnerable teeth. The author uses the device of claiming to have found extracts of Joe's book and Ludlow's memoirs, bridging the gaps with her imagination. The shifting perspective slows the action considerably. That said, Higgins employs visceral imagery (rat pies, wives buried alive) as well as Rembrandt-like contrasts of light and dark to illuminate the loneliness of wealth and despair. Add to this a dollop of suspense and the intriguing idea that fear of our own actions is our greatest enemy, and the result is an unusual, compelling read. Readers who like Sharon Shinn or Megan Whalen Turner will love this unique novel.—Caitlin Augusta, The Darien Library, CT

Gr 5–8—Setting is always central in Hobbs's books, and this time he's chosen the Black Hills of South Dakota as his backdrop. As fans would expect, he artfully weaves the human and natural history of the region into the story. As they might not expect, he amps up the outdoorsy action by tossing some sci-fi into the mix. Had Brady not been outside watching a meteor shower, he might not have lived to see his freshman year in high school. Dumbstruck, he watches as the entire horizon turns blue and a meteorite sails right through his roof, piercing the center of his mattress and wedging itself into his bedroom floor. The first person he calls is his slightly older and more athletic cousin Quinn, with whom he is close. When Quinn arrives, he can't help but notice that Brady now scorches him in every physical pursuit; he's suddenly much quicker and stronger—almost superhuman. Brady's been noticing—and wondering about—those changes too, and he knows that somehow they're linked to the meteorite. When the boys consult a scientist at a local museum, they find out that the rock comes from Mars and may contain long-dormant life-forms responsible for what is becoming Brady's increasingly troublesome transformation. His body, initially juiced by the Martian microbes, now seems to be quickly shutting down—just as he's become locked in a contest for possession of the meteorite with the twin brothers next door. Offering something to tantalize nearly every boyish taste, this title is a great choice for reluctant readers.—Jeffrey Hastings, Highlander Way Middle School, Howell, MI

Gr 9 Up—Hayley is an overweight junior with a "pretty face" and a good story to tell. She feels the pressure to have a beautiful body in her Santa Monica high school and at home, with a mother who has recently lost weight and now insists that the whole family eat mass amounts of tofu. The bright spot in the teen's life is her upcoming date with Drew, but then he expresses an interest in Jackie. Worried that her life in Santa Monica is too stressful, her parents suggest a 10-week visit with family friends living in Italy, and Hayley jumps at the idea. As soon as school lets out, she is on her way, with a plan to lose 30 pounds and make over her life. Once she settles into life in Umbria, though, she indulges in the local cuisine and the local tendency to walk or bike everywhere. Over the course of the summer, Hayley does lose a bit of weight, but, more importantly, she gains a sense of self and has a little romance along the way. Told with a more realistic voice than the weight-obsessed fat camp participants in Sasha Paley's Huge (S & S, 2007), Pretty Face offers a positive example of a teen who simply needs to get away from her old routines and view her life from a new perspective.—Sarah Krygier, Solano County Library, Fairfield, CA

Gr 9 Up—Mick Salisbury, 15, knows plenty about cheating; his father cheated on his mother, he told his mother about his father's affair (after he was asked not to), he was unfaithful to his girlfriend, and he helped a friend cheat on a homework assignment. His friends are troubled and have serious personal issues, his relationship with his father is difficult, and his decided lack of luck with the opposite sex does little to boost his confidence. Mick feels adrift in a sea of preppy classmates and high school football players; his lack of eye-hand coordination frustrates him to no end. He escapes through music on his iPod knockoff and hanging out with his troublemaking friends. The mundaneness of Mick's life evaporates when a Friday night of illicit drinking and poker turns into a shocking and devastating encounter with a local homeless man. This book could be a good way to spark conversation about the consequences of one's choice of friends, drinking, society's treatment of the homeless, and the extent of loyalty. The inclusion of profanity, violence, and brief sexual situations makes it a gritty novel. The realistic portrayal of high school life, the fast pace of the second half of the book, and the keen insight into interrogation and investigation tactics will keep reluctant readers turning the pages, but teens wanting a conclusive resolution might be disappointed by the ambiguous ending.—Jennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, Warrenton, VA

Gr 8–11—Three bright and funny Brookline, MA, eleventh graders look back on their most excellent year—ninth grade—for a school report. Told in alternating chapters by each of them, this enchanting, life-affirming coming-of-age story unfolds through instant messages, emails, memos, diary entries, and letters to celebrity divas and to a deceased mom. T.C. (Anthony Conigliaro) Keller, whose mother died when he was six, is in love with baseball and Alejandra (Alé) Perez. She and Augie Hwong, who is gay and in love with Andy Wexler, are passionate about the stage and screen, and Augie and T.C. have been "brothers" since they were six. The teens mount a fabulous talent show, launch a couple of grassrooots political movements, and bring hope and love to a deaf, six-year-old foster child. What's more, Augie and T.C. have a refreshingly positive relationship with their parents. Similar in storytelling style to Kate Klise's classic Regarding the Fountain: A Tale, in Letters, of Liars and Leaks (Avon, 1998), this is a rich and humorous novel for older readers. The teen and adult characters are quirky and charming, and their adventures are involving without being over-the-top. A fun, feel-good story with star quality.—Sharon Senser McKellar, Oakland Public Library, CA

Gr 9 Up—Ridgeport High School is an ordinary public school with an extraordinary theater department. As the students prepare to perform Grease, their spring musical, junior Brianna goes from motivated good girl to overachiever, relying on uppers and downers to get her through her jam-packed days. There is the usual cast of drama students within the main plot: the diva, the tech geek, the reluctant performer, the jock who can act, the homosexual, and the student director. The multiple points of view stay true to teen language, including instant messaging. The drug-use subplot is not explicit and is quickly and neatly resolved; Lerangis mainly shows the effects of the pills on Brianna (short temper, shaking hands, confusion, and delirium). Nice-boy Harrison deals with his racist, homophobic, Greek father, providing a father-son strained relationship as another narrative thread. Unlike Paul Ruditis's "Drama!" series (S & S), the theatrical aspect of the book isn't too technical and, in fact, provides much of the drama and hilarity. Overall, a solid and well-cast production.—Terrilyn Fleming, Colby Public Schools, KS

Gr 7 Up—Genesis Sommer, 17, lives with her father, stepmother, and twin half brothers in a town on Moosehead Lake in northern Maine. Her world turns upside down on a stormy November day when her father ventures out on the lake to repair a dock and doesn't return. The rescue team finds his boat, but soon the reality sets in that the mission has become a retrieval operation. Then the lake freezes and a period of terrible waiting begins. Genesis quits school and goes to work in order to help support the family, and life takes on an almost surreal aspect. The one thing that holds meaning for her is ice-car racing, an activity she shared with her father. When she wins her first major competition, she goes in search of information about her dad and begins to accept his death, allowing herself to feel the emotions that she had been denying over several weeks. Genesis comes to realize that she really did not know her father, and the same can be said for her stepmother, brothers, and best friend. Her slow climb back to the world of the living begins with the answers to many questions and with self-discovery. This well-written, thought-provoking novel will ring true even for those who have not lost someone close. It is a soul-searching quest that makes readers think about what is important and the steps needed to take charge of one's life. A worthwhile purchase for most collections.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

Gr 5–8—Gabe loves his DeepSea Danger Hunt computer game. He and his cyber sidekick explore underwater territory, searching for the wreckage of the U.S.S. Victoriana. It's easier to lose himself in a game or in his pet fish than to control his temper and he feels self-conscious about his older brother, who has ADHD, and his odd younger brother, who Gabe feels will be diagnosed with something similar before long. He finds himself getting angry with those around him, and he is alienating his best friend. However, when he is called to the principal's office yet again, he realizes, with the help and support of his parents, that he is the one who must change. This story is for readers who are turned on to reading: it has boy appeal all over it, but there isn't quite enough action to convert a nonreader. Levy's introductory paragraphs are tricky: they make the book seem as though it's about a kid who scuba dives. Readers slowly come to the realization that Gabe is lost in his computer game and, suddenly, he's like almost every boy. The cover doesn't take advantage of the gaming story line; instead, it features fish. This book won't have wide appeal—it will need to be promoted—but Underwater deserves an audience and should find one with male readers.—Laura Lutz, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 7–10—Laugh-out-loud funny, this prequel to the now four-part series about Jess Jordan is sure to be a winner with fans of British chick-lit. After receiving his picture in the mail, Jess falls in love with her French exchange student. Then she meets him face-to-face and discovers that he's as small as an elf, speaks almost no English, and has a fascination for spiders and snakes. Worse, he has a crush on her. Efforts to discourage him, involving Jess pretending to have a relationship with her best friend, adorable if nerdy Fred, change when she develops a crush on another French exchange student, Gerard. When this ladies' man comes on to Jess and then to her friend Flora on a camping trip with some classmates and their exchange partners, Jess isn't the only one who is jealous of Gerard and Flora, and watching everyone's reactions is hilarious. The fast pace will keep readers turning the pages. A few of the scenes don't further the story, but even those are so full of sparkling wit and slapstick humor that it doesn't matter. The tale stops rather than ends, leaving readers waiting for the next installment to see if Jess catches a glimpse of gorgeous classmate Ben's appendicitis scar.—Catherine Ensley, Latah County Free Library District, Moscow, ID

Gr 4–7—Timothy, twins Barnaby A and Barnaby B, and Jane Willoughby live in an imposing Victorian house. Their uncaring parents would like to get rid of them, and the feeling is mutual. The adults go off on vacation, leaving the young Willoughbys in the care of a nanny, and try to sell the house in absentia. This leads to some of the more hilarious moments as prospective buyers arrive and the children disguise themselves as lamp shades and coat hangers. The day a baby is left on their doorstep, events are set in motion that bring about some desired changes and an "all's well that ends well" resolution. Lowry continually reminds readers that the characters and events in this story are meant to recall those found in "old fashioned" children's books, a bibliography of which she includes at the end. The plot is understandably dependent on coincidence, but the ultimate effect is to render the characters emotionally distant, leaving readers with little empathy for them. However, the glossary of terms such as "lugubrious" and "obsequious" at the end of the book is absolutely choice, and Lowry's cover and interior illustrations show that she has an entirely untapped talent. Children will enjoy the story's absurd humor while adults may be put off by its dark elements. Lowry is never afraid to expand her boundaries as a writer, and this book, even if somewhat flawed, belongs in most collections.—Tim Wadham, Maricopa County Library District, Phoenix, AZ

Gr 6–10—Who was Guinevere before she was Queen of Camelot? Though a prophecy foretells that she will be queen of the land, 13-year-old Guinevere would rather be out riding her horse and escaping the confining walls of the castle where she lives with her aunt, Queen Alyse, and uncle, King Pellinore. Arthur, the new High King of Britain, has called Pellinore and his troops away to battle. Taking advantage of the men's absence, dastardly Sir Darric tries to weasel his way into the Queen's good graces so that he can be betrothed to her daughter, Elaine, and take over Pellinore's lands and treasures. He nearly succeeds, but Gwen is skeptical of his intentions and finds out that he has been stealing Pellinore's cattle. Queen Alyse is a sharp woman, and when she realizes that Sir Darric intends to lay siege to her castle and overthrow her, she puts a plan in action that helps save them all. While out riding, Gwen stumbles onto the fact that she is being protected by the Old Ones, who have been watching over her to ensure that the prophecy is fulfilled, and the Old Ones come to the castle's rescue as well. Subtle details of Arthurian legends are woven into the story, but Arthur is a very minor player. Gwen and Queen Alyse are strong and feisty and take care of business while the men are away, making this a good "girl power" story.—Cheri Dobbs, Detroit Country Day Middle School, Beverly Hills, MI

Gr 9 Up—Paul leaves home after another epic fight with his stepfather, determined to find a job and a place of his own. He follows a couple who are destroying security cameras and dropping leaflets and becomes a member of Omega Place, an organization dedicated to alerting the public to the danger to privacy posed by England's vast network of closed-circuit security cameras. Living in "squats" and traveling in stolen cars, the group's members operate like a small, disciplined guerrilla army. As Paul struggles to understand the various relationships, he discovers parallels with his own family. All is not as it appears in Omega Place. It is unclear who really calls the shots, and where the organization is getting information about top-secret government programs. The group's possession of such information attracts the attention of powerful people, leading to the events that bring the police to Paul's mother's door to inform her of his violent death in an abandoned house in London. While this is an interesting story with enough action and plot twists for most teens, the heavy use of British slang will prove an obstacle to some, and there is no glossary. One of the underlying plot elements—who started Omega Place and why—is not sufficiently explained. But the topics raised—privacy, Big Brother, passivity—are timely tie-ins to current events and constitutional issues.—Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School Library, CA

Gr 5–8—An inventive fantasy-adventure by a first-time author. Rory, 13, and his sister Bridget, 9, live in present-day New York City unaware of the spirits from Manhattan's or "Mannahatta's" past that coexist alongside them. Rory has a gift for seeing this other world but has repressed this ability until the day he notices a cockroach riding a rat, an ancient Indian warrior, a papier-mâché boy, and other oddities. He's able to see such historical figures as Peter Stuyvesant, Walt Whitman, John Jacob Astor, Alexander Hamilton, and Babe Ruth—all immortal gods in this parallel world—and he learns that it's up to him to thwart an evil assassin who has been killing the gods, and free the Munsee Indians who are imprisoned in Central Park. He's joined by other immortal teens, including Nicholas Stuyvesant, Peter's son, and Lincoln Douglass, Frederick's son. The use of real historical figures and events lends authenticity to this compulsively readable and fast-paced fantasy. Rory may be the one destined to save Mannahatta, but Bridget, spunky and determined, also does her part. This book will appeal to fans of Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series (Hyperion/Miramax).—Sharon Rawlins, New Jersey State Library, Trenton

Gr 8 Up—Instead of heading to college as his father wishes, Robin leaves Harlem and joins the army to stand up for his country after 9/11. While stationed in Iraq with a war looming that he hopes will be averted, he begins writing letters home to his parents and to his Uncle Richie, the main character from Myers's acclaimed Vietnam War novel, Fallen Angels (Scholastic, 1988). Robin finds himself in a diverse Civil Affairs unit of both men and women, with a mission to serve as a buffer between winning over the Iraqi people and concurrent military operations. As the war unfolds, the military angle of Robin's job escalates, and he experiences increasing horrors of violence, death, destruction, insecurity, sorrow, and extreme fear. Ultimately, he comprehends the reasons Uncle Richie never wanted to talk to their family about what happened in Vietnam, saying, "…are there really enough words to make them understand?" Myers brilliantly freeze-frames the opening months of the current Iraq War by realistically capturing its pivotal moments in 2003 and creating a vivid setting. Memorable characters share instances of wry levity that balance the story without deflecting its serious tone. Through precise, believable dialogue as the catalyst, tame compared to that warranted in Fallen Angels, Myers's expert portrayal of a soldier's feelings and perspectives at the onset of this controversial war allows the circumstances to speak for themselves.—Diane P. Tuccillo, Fort Collins Regional Library District, CO

Gr 5–8—In this third installment in the series, Willa plans to spend the summer reading on the beach, but life isn't so simple. The Bramblebriar Inn, which her family owns, has two weddings to plan. The teen is hoping to land the role of Emily in a local production of Our Town, but fears that a beautiful new girl is trying to steal her boyfriend and her part in the play. And when Willa's mother announces that she is pregnant, the high school student has mixed feelings about becoming a big sister for the first time. Luckily, Willa is as headstrong and enchanting as the heroines in the books she devours. The novel's descriptive narrative will hook readers from the start, and the protagonist's irrepressible wit will keep them going. They will fall in love with Willa's family and friends, who populate the quaint Cape Cod town. The author makes every effort to fill in the gaps for those who haven't read the earlier books, but this volume does not stand alone. However, the characters are so lovable that readers will want to go back to the earlier titles.—Julianna M. Helt, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA

Gr 5–7—In this technical tour de force, father and daughter combine origami-style figures and intricate pop-up effects into six spreads and a double gatefold of paper magic. The art evokes common materials, from a whirl of newspaper doves or passport pages made into sailboats to legal-pad-paper ducks swimming in a desktop "pond" of spilled coffee and, for a spectacular finish, an array of Chinese take-out menus and cartons falling prey to a hungry dragon's attack. The figures are mostly made of precut and glued pieces, but many of the beaks and noses, at least, are actually folded. This is recommended only for display and as a specimen for special collections.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 8–10—In The Queen Geek Social Club (Berkley, 2006), high school freshmen Becca Gallagher and Shelby Chapelle formed a group that would bring together girls like themselves. In this sequel, Becca has plans to make the QGSC even bigger and better, with Shelby's help. Her friend, however, is preoccupied with her first serious boyfriend. Preble expertly handles the ups and downs of teenage friendship and romance, as well as motherless Shelby's relationship with her involved, "mad scientist dad." Readers will enjoy this light, funny novel with real characters who go through the typical trials of teenage life.—Shari Fesko, Southfield Public Library, MI

Gr 5–8—Focusing on a single afternoon—a mere six innings of a Little League game—Preller delves into the psyches of middle school boys on two teams—Earl Grubb's Pool Supplies and Northeast Gas & Electric, as well as that of Sam, previously a player but now an announcer. Without explaining why, the story begins with Sam being in bed, thinking about baseball, unable to get to the bathroom alone. It is only later in the book, in a brief area, that readers learn of Sam's recent diagnosis with osteosarcoma. In between Sam's broadcasts, readers learn about other team members, their thoughts and memories about baseball and family. Sharing tidbits of these boys' lives, exposing diverse backgrounds and situations, Six Innings should hit home with many readers. Written in the authentic voice of a soon-to-be 13-year-old, the narrative reflects the thoughts and sensibilities of a middle schooler. Tension builds as the game progresses, and the boys' characters are developed each time they are at bat or on the field for an important play. A tale of baseball, friendship, growth, and coming to terms with hardships, this fast read will grasp any reader who enjoys sports.—Sara Rofofsky Marcus, Yeshiva Har Torah, Little Neck, NY

Gr 4–7—Simon Bloom, an average sixth grader who has made a habit of keeping his head down and out of trouble, discovers a "teacher's edition" physics manual that allows him to control gravity, velocity, and other physical properties. With his newfound powers, along with some new friends, he must face a rogue member of the mysterious Order of Physics who seeks to overturn the laws of nature. Part "Harry Potter," part The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, with a hint of "Goosebumps" thrown in for good measure, Simon Bloom is a solid choice for the intended audience. The book has a standard plot and characters that rarely rise above one-dimensional; what saves it is the playful yet respectful way that Reisman integrates actual physics into the story. While his characters are running around fighting people with ridiculous names, they are also learning about Newton's laws of gravity, motion, and velocity. With its mixture of humor, fast-paced action, and science fiction, this book will certainly appeal to many readers. Hopefully, it will get them interested in learning more about the real science, not the kind that enables kids to fly or shoot electricity, but the kind that still does some pretty cool things.—Steev Baker, Kewaskum Public Library, WI

Gr 4–6—When Leo's annoying cousin, Mimi, and her dog arrive for an extended visit, she encourages him to break the rules that accompany the family music box left to him by Great Aunt Bethany. Overwinding the box opens the gate to Rondo, and the Blue Queen jumps into their world and kidnaps Mutt. Mimi insists on rescuing him and follows her back into the fairy-tale world of the music box, and Leo is dragged along as he attempts to stop his cousin. The two children travel over the sides of the box from the town market scene, to the Flitter wood full of pixielike creatures guiding them, to the Dark Forest, and finally to the palace of the Queen. Along the way traditional characters from nursery rhymes and fairy tales appear to help or hinder their progress, from Old MacDonald to Grandma, who was once tricked by the wolf. The ground is infested with "dots," gingerbread men who are kept away by a sly fox and a brave pig (who went to work after her house was blown down). While the characters and writing are neither complex nor literary, children will get a thrill from identifying the familiar tales referenced. The rollicking, action-packed plot moves along quickly and twists keep readers guessing. Not quite as well crafted as Cornelia Funke's Inkheart (Scholastic, 2003), this story will likely appeal to a less-experienced, less-sophisticated audience.—Kelly Vikstrom, Enoch Pratt Free Library, Baltimore, MD

Gr 7–10—Nothing is as it seems when Trouble arrives in varied and symbolic ways for two families and two communities. Franklin Smith, the arrogant scion of an aristocratic New England family, is accidentally struck while running and subsequently dies. The blame is accepted by a classmate, a Cambodian immigrant from a nearby town. When legal technicalities prevent Chay Chouan from being jailed, the perceived miscarriage of justice reverberates through idyllic Blythbury-by-the-Sea. Franklin's younger brother, Henry, becomes determined to climb Mount Katahdin, a feat that Franklin had coldly suggested might prove that Henry had guts. Henry sets out hitchhiking for the mountain with best friend Sanborn. Somewhat improbably they are picked up by Chay, who has been expelled by his father and is driving the truck that killed Franklin. Their symbolic journey predictably includes moments of danger, self-discovery, and reconciliation, fortunately leavened by the humorously ironic Sanborn. Complex structure allows revelations into the character of Chay, child of a violent refugee camp, unwanted product of rape, lover of poetry, and protector of Henry's sister (in a Romeo-and-Juliet twist). Teeming with plot elements, some of which may seem too purposeful, and richly veined with social and psychological crosscurrents, this story may be seen as allegorical in its intent and representation. Nevertheless it contains Schmidt's eloquent language and compelling characters, as well as compassionate examinations of the passage from childhood to adulthood and of the patterns of common experience that mark and unite us as humans.—Kate McClelland, Perrot Memorial Library, Old Greenwich, CT

Gr 7–10—Kate's father quit his job and is now living his dream by selling infomercial vitamins at a mall kiosk. The teen's college-graduate brother is living on the couch, her mother is working two jobs, and her friend Anna isn't talking to her now that Anna has lost weight and become popular. Making Kate's life completely miserable, her overbearing grandmother has moved in, and Will, the boy Kate tries to pretend she doesn't like because of their contentious history, is constantly making approaches at school and at their mall jobs. When the two start meeting to make out (but otherwise mostly ignore each other), and Anna hints that she might want to be friends again, Kate is more confused than ever about how to get her life back on track. Scott does a good job portraying a teen who is simultaneously self-centered and sympathetic. Kate's confusion and frustration over her lost friendship as well as the possibility of a budding romance are believable. Background regarding the difficult relationship between her mother and grandmother is skillfully woven in, as is the information regarding her long-standing friendship with Anna and her love/hate relationship with Will. Supporting characters are well fleshed out, and the ending, while encouraging, isn't all sunshine and roses, making it believable as well as hopeful.—Natasha Forrester, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Gr 9 Up—Buried beneath the weight of a wholly untenable premise is a deeply moving, often beautifully rendered story of a girl who endures the loss of both her father and the boy she loves, and finds strength and hope as a result. High-school freshman Ryan Walsh still misses her dad terribly five years after his death in a boating accident. He was a sports reporter who instilled in her his love of the perennially disappointing Chicago Cubs. Ryan, who has grown away from her childhood friends, is lonely and miserable until she meets Nick, who shares her passion for the team. A recent transfer to her school, he is vague and evasive about the reason for the cast on his arm. It is eventually revealed that he has bone cancer. When Ryan suspects that he is seriously ill, she strikes a fateful bargain (with whom, it is never made clear) that the Cubs could continue to fail, as long as Nick is all right. As the team's fortunes improve and Nick's condition worsens, Ryan comes to believe that she is responsible. This central conceit of the novel—that a bright, sensible 15-year-old could believe that events are affected by this kind of irrational superstition—strains even the most willing suspension of disbelief. Nevertheless, those readers who stay with the novel to the end will be rewarded (in the last third of the book particularly) with scenes of genuine emotional power and language of sometimes breathtaking beauty and clarity. While her novel is less than a total success, Smith is clearly a writer with extraordinary gifts, from whom great things should be expected.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School Library, VT

Gr 5–8—Ana Shen daydreams about how her junior-high graduation day should go: Jamie Tabata will ask her to the dance and will confess that he likes her. However, her dreams don't include a plumbing disaster resulting in the dance being canceled, popular classmate Amanda Conrad flirting with Jamie, or both sets of Ana's grandparents—one Chinese, one African American—cooking together. But that is what she gets when she impulsively invites Jamie and his parents to graduation dinner at her house. Her grandmothers don't get along and the evening could be a disaster. Ana tries to smooth things out as the meal comes together, but it's not easy. Her father reassures her that the differences in her family are like different flavors in Chinese cooking—hot, sour, salty, sweet—that together make something delicious. After dinner with Jamie's stern, judgmental father (and the surprise appearance of Amanda) Ana realizes that her family isn't the only one with problems. Ana is a winning heroine, a real teenager trying to cope with frustrating situations through patience and humor, and sometimes losing both. The supporting characters are strongly drawn, and reminiscences shared by the grandparents shed light on their younger days and add depth to the story. Fans of Phyllis Reynolds Naylor's "Alice" books (S & S) or Meg Cabot will enjoy discovering Ana.—Terrie Dorio, Santa Monica Public Library, CA

Gr 7–10—In this delightful novel, 16-year-old Princess Rhis travels from her small mountain kingdom of Nym to the large kingdom of Vesarja for a party in honor of newly named Crown Prince Lios. While there, the intelligent and independent teen takes a leading role in a quest to rescue an abducted princess and finds herself drawn, not to the handsome prince or one of his royal peers, but to the prince's clever, witty scribe. Readers familiar with the author's popular Crown Duel (1997) and Court Duel (1998, both Harcourt) will enjoy the similar setting and theme, and won't be too surprised when plucky Rhis discovers that things aren't always as they seem. This book strikes a far better balance between character development and plot than the earlier tales, and it ends with hints of a sequel. Smith's humorous narrative, colorful descriptions of palace life, and fully realized characters will appeal to romance and fantasy buffs alike.—Leah J. Sparks, formerly at Bowie Public Library, MD

Gr 7–10—Splendidly drawn characters caught between ancient Pakistani traditions and modern Western influences mark this strong sequel to Staples's Shabanu (1989) and Haveli (1993, both Knopf). For 10 years, Mumtaz has lived uneasily with her deceased father's extended family, sent there when her mother, Shabanu, staged her own death to protect her daughter from her treacherous Uncle Nazir. Attending a modern school and doted on by her grandfather Baba, a tribal patriarch who embraces Western ways of thinking, Mumtaz treasures the arrival each summer of her skateboarding cousin and best friend Jameel, who lives in California with his parents. At 15, Mumtaz is thrown into emotional disarray when she learns that Shabanu is alive and in hiding nearby. Then Baba's unexpected death prompts Jameel's succession as tribal leader, and the edict that Jameel and Mumtaz are to be married leaves the teens reeling. The richly detailed backdrop of upper-class Pakistani life in Lahore ranges from private country clubs to open-air markets, with exotic touches such as secret messages sent by pigeons. Staples adds a supernatural element via the djinn who appears to Mumtaz and Jameel in the form of Baba, offering posthumous guidance and protection. The author explores the role of educated women in traditional Islamic society, the importance of family and tribe in the Pakistani social structure, and the impact of Western education on emerging leadership through the candid reactions, honest emotions, and complex relationships of multidimensional people. Their story moves along quickly and intensely with elements of intrigue and adventure, holding readers' attention and sympathies.—Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 9 Up—During the last six weeks of her senior year, Kate Winthrop finds out she is number 71. She doesn't know what that means until she receives a mysterious instant message that sends her to a Web site, where she finds that it is her ranking (out of 140) in the Millbank Social Stock Market, an underground market allowing insiders to buy and sell investments in Millbank High's female seniors. After freaking out, she tells her friends about the scheme and decides to revamp herself. The girls plan to buy into the market for $500 and then win the $25,000 year-end pool by raising Kate's status from junk bond to blue chip. During her transformation, she almost loses her friends, becomes entangled in a love triangle, and learns that being popular isn't all it's cracked up to be. While Kate has the same thoughts that haunt other teens (and engages in the same underage drinking like many of them) this isn't just another makeover novel. After her revamping, Kate decides that she doesn't want to be in the popular crowd after all. Teens who like Sixteen Candles and Can't Buy Me Love (which Kate watches) will dig this book.—Shannon Seglin, Patrick Henry Library, Vienna, VA

Gr 4–7—Revealing that dragon fossils have recently been found at secret locations in Europe and elsewhere, then going on to suggest links between dragons and dinosaurs, this quick pop-up survey presents its topic so seriously that readers should have no trouble suspending their disbelief. The five painted 3-D figures are relatively large, and range from a cute, if rather simply designed, hatchling to a huge, toothy skeleton of a Western dragon that resembles a T. rex with bat wings; surrounding each one are smaller images, plus nuggets of various legends and brief descriptions of the characteristics of dragons from various countries. Though the pop-ups display themselves better here than in Moseley's Dragons (Abrams, 2006), one spread inexcusably depicts a band of Illini warriors as generic Indians—braids, feathered headdress, and all. There are many other, more carefully considered choices available for young dracophiles.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 7–10—When Sami lands in Inverness, she's looking forward to 45 days of hot Scots, kilts, and a stay at the castle of a long-lost relative. However, the 16-year-old finds herself living in one of the castle's crofts, a guinea pig in the family's attempt to turn the run-down estate into a working farm for tourists. She pumps her own water, makes her own soap, counts sheep, and has to deal with an unfriendly cow. Sami's cousin Fiona is obsessed with two things: the ghost living in Sami's bedroom and the long-standing feud with the neighboring McClintoggs. Unfortunately, the McClintoggs have a cute son, Adan, and he and Sami immediately hit it off. Days pass while readers are left to struggle with the flow of time and lack of depth in both story and character. Sami's mother is a famous romance novelist who is supposedly known for researching her stories, but Swoish can't be bothered to use even simple Scottish words like "dinnae." Despite hopes that the annoying ghost side story is the product of an overactive imagination, there turns out to be a "real" ghost haunting Sami's room. This is a quick read, and the diary style should appeal to fans of Meg Cabot's books, while the content is a more accessible, less slang-filled, version of Louise Rennison's books. An uninspiring but ultimately harmless addition to larger collections.—Cara von Wrangel Kinsey, New York Public Library

Gr 6–8—Rich girls, extravagant spending, and an elaborate party sound like the recipe for yet another in the long series of spoiled-rotten-girl books that have been abundant in the past few years. Luckily, this one is different. The first in a trilogy about the Avery sisters, it focuses on the youngest, Phoebe, whose picture-perfect family is facing a challenge. Mr. Avery is a kindergarten teacher, and it is clear that Mrs. Avery's income maintains the family's lifestyle: cars, housekeeper, pool, vacations, and a nanny who spends a lot of her time chauffeuring the girls around. When a business deal falls apart and threatens the family's financial security, loyalties, priorities, and relationships are brought into question. What rings so true is Phoebe's complete ignorance about money. Her family has it, they've always had it, and they never talk about it. It is a real transformation in the eighth grader's life when all of a sudden her parents start talking about what things cost and what they can (and can't) afford. Readers will find that the middle school characters act appropriately for their ages and the parents, while peripheral, are essential to their children's sense of self as young adults. Kindness and understanding emerge in unexpected, fresh, and satisfying ways, and readers will be looking forward to finding out what lies ahead for the Avery family.—Genevieve Gallagher, Murray Elementary School, Charlottesville, VA

Gr 8–11—Sixteen-year-old Lucas idealizes his father, Pete, who disappeared when the boy was six. Mum says they were abandoned, although Lucas makes excuses for his dad. On entering a minicab office one day, he finds himself drawn to an urn containing the ashes of a woman named Violet, which someone left in a cab years before. Part mystery, part magical realism, part story of personal growth, and in large part simply about a funny teenager making light of his and his family's pain, this short novel is engaging from start to finish. It feels like Frank Cottrell Boyce's Framed (2006) or Millions (2004, both HarperCollins) for a slightly older crowd—especially in the all-too-human quirky family members and their willingness to employ creative methods to secure their ends as well as in the contemporary middle-class London setting. Throughout, Lucas's tongue-in-cheek lists (e.g., "good reasons to make friends with a dead lady in an urn") relieve the seriousness of his family's situation and his relatively mature revelations about them and himself. Lucas steadily unravels the two mysteries—the deceased Violet and the missing Pete—and leaves readers with a highly satisfying surprise inside the final knot. Neither too heavy nor too fluffy.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library

Gr 4–7—Cartoon pigs dramatize a tried-and-true love story in this small square picture book illustrated predominately in a cotton-candy palette of pink. Boy pig falls for girl pig, Bloom, and invites her to play in a puddle. Girl pig falls for a blue butterfly that she mistakes for a flying flower. When the butterfly breaks her heart, the steadfast boy pig is there to pick up the pieces and win her in the end. The simple yet expressive line drawings on a white background get lost in the overwhelmingly sugary design and story line. This little book holds the most promise for preteen girls nursing their first crushes.—Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA

Gr 7 Up—Dana, 14, escapes her stepfather's sexual abuse by running away to the streets of Toronto, where she forms a "family" with street kids Ashley and Brent. Panhandling money for food, finding places to sleep, and staying safe are a struggle, but the three manage to survive. Little by little, Dana learns why her friends are in this situation, and she in turn reveals her story. The teens' saving grace is Sketches, a drop-in center where homeless youth engage in art and are cared for. When an attempt to make a home in Tent Town falls apart, Dana, Ashley, and Brent, with the help of Sketches's staff, develop a plan to get off the streets permanently. Though Walters's characters are developed enough for readers to care about them, they're not fully fleshed out. While hinted at (but never actually described), Dana's abuse is not disclosed until the end of the book, raising unanswered questions of why she left her younger sister in jeopardy and whether she had told her mother what was happening. Todd Strasser's Can't Get There from Here (S & S, 2004) is a more compelling, intense, and bleak depiction of street kids, but readers who liked it will be drawn to this story, too, especially its believable yet non-gritty dialogue. The characters' well-portrayed camaraderie, resourcefulness, and resiliency carry the tale, which ends on a note of promise.—Diane P. Tuccillo, Fort Collins Regional Library District, CO

Gr 4–6—Ten-year-old Natalie is resigned to a quiet summer of riding her bike around the neighborhood and entertaining herself. But when she almost crashes into the new kid on the block on the first day of vacation, she quickly realizes that this summer is going to be anything but ordinary. Annie is brash and outspoken, and adamant that the far-fetched stories she tells about herself are true. She lives with her uncle, who provides minimal supervision. Natalie's mother tries to steer her daughter away from this friend's questionable influence, but Annie's unpredictable nature calls to Natalie. In search of adventure, the girls form a spy club: Natalie becomes "Olive" and Annie, "Elvis." Spying on their neighbors seems harmless enough until private issues are brought to light during a block party, and both girls learn painful lessons. The characters are fairly two-dimensional, and the loose ends tied up too neatly, but fans of protagonists like Anne Mazer's Abby Hayes will enjoy the twists and turns the story takes as the two try to undo the damage they have caused. An additional purchase for large collections.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 8 Up—This thoroughly enjoyable sports novel is set in rural Minnesota and centers on a quarter-mile dirt racetrack struggling for economic survival. The plot plays out over the course of one Saturday, culminating in that evening's racing. The story is divided into four chapters—Noon, 3:00, 6:00, and 9:00 PM—and within each one, various characters are introduced. The cast, composed of both genders and multiple ethnicities in a variety of racing roles, includes young drivers starting their careers, older drivers hanging on for the love of the sport, the track owners and their employees, the mechanics, and snack-food vendors. As bad weather threatens, the track draws star drivers from out of town in an effort to boost the gate, with the event concluding just as the storm arrives. Throughout, the author keeps readers' interest, as curiosity grows about how the many characters will eventually fit together. Racing terminology is used accurately, and the scenes are plausible, although the positive outcome of almost every problem seems too good to be true. Still, this book presents a fascinating look at small-time racing where the love of it gives the glitz of NASCAR its roots.—Jeffrey A. French, formerly at Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Gr 4–7—Henry York, 12, discovers 99 different cupboard doors hidden behind the plaster in his attic bedroom, and one in the room that belonged to his deceased grandfather. Henry's not particularly brave; in fact, he has only recently stopped wearing a helmet to P.E. class. Nevertheless, he opens some of the doors, only to become more and more puzzled. One of them, for example, opens into a forest, and behind another, mail is delivered. Henry's nagging cousin Henrietta wants to explore further and decides to open a menacing black cupboard door. When he discovers her face-down with her ice-cold arm in the grip of someone inside the cupboard, the boy and his family are unwillingly pulled into a life-or-death adventure. While the first part of the book may seem slow to those thinking the title indicates an immediate portal into different realms, fans of dark fantasy will be intrigued by the unknown realities awaiting these unsuspecting people. The characters are especially memorable, with Henry's seemingly clueless Uncle Frank, whose laid-back style offers wit and energy, standing out most of all. The story is well crafted and gratifying but the resolution may prove challenging for some. Unanswered questions lead into the next book in the series.—Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

Gr 7–9—This is a fun, sassy, lighthearted story of a Florida high school freshman who's trying to make a graceful transition into young adulthood. Kayla faces the usual difficulties: parents who don't understand her, a beautiful younger sister, and, of course, boy troubles. An aspiring journalist, she is persuaded by her friend Rosalie to try out for the Lady Lions dance team and expose its prejudice for large-breasted girls. This is an opportunity to stand up for women and show that looks don't make the person. Things don't turn out as expected, however, and Kayla finds herself making the team and enjoying the friendship of the other dancers. The novel is written in first person, diary style, with teen jargon and quotes from Zora Neale Hurston, Oprah Winfrey, Mary Wollstonecraft, and others interspersed throughout. A "Lexicon of Kayla-isms" is appended.—Sheilah Kosco, Bastrop Public Library, TX

Gr 5–8—Life for Digory, 11, and Cubby, 9, is hard on the Cornwall coast in the late 1600s. After hearing that their father's ship has been lost, they are sent by their aunt to Plymouth 100 miles away to discover if their father survived. Without his income, she cannot afford to keep them. They receive discouraging news but are rescued by a fascinating man named Henry Winstanley of Littlebury, who is known as a jester due to his marvelous, somewhat whimsical inventions. Winstanley believes, however, that his greatest accomplishment is the lighthouse he designed and built on the Eddystone Reef, which was responsible for a tremendous loss of life and ships before the light was erected. Word comes to Winstanley that the light is in need of repairs and supplies so he and the brothers journey back to Plymouth only to discover that the worst storm of the century is approaching. This fascinating, well-written story is closely based on the life of the real Henry Winstanley. It introduces one of the leading inventors of the day and provides a glimpse, through the young brothers, of harshness of life for the common people during this period. The characters are finely drawn and the action is nonstop. Many of the short chapters are cliff-hangers, making the book a great read-aloud.—Nancy P. Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC

Gr 6–10—D Foster, Neeka, and an unnamed narrator grow from being 11 to 13 with Tupac Shakur's music, shootings, and legal troubles as the backdrop. Neeka and the narrator have lived on the same block forever and are like sisters, but foster child D shows up during the summer of 1994, while she is out "roaming." D immediately finds a place in the heart of the other girls, and the "Three the Hard Way" bond over their love of Tupac's music. It seems especially relevant to D, who sees truth in his lyrics, having experienced the hard life herself in group homes and with multiple foster families. Woodson's spare, poetic, language and realistic Queens, NY, street vernacular reveal a time and a relationship, each chapter a vignette depicting an event in the lives of the girls and evoking mood more than telling a story. In this urban setting, there are, refreshingly, caring adults and children playing on the street instead of drug dealers on every corner. Readers are right on the block with bossy mothers, rope-jumping girls, and chess-playing elders. With Tupac's name and picture on the cover, this slim volume will immediately appeal to teens, and the emotions and high-quality writing make it a book well worth recommending. By the end, readers realize that, along with the girls, they don't really know D at all. As she says, "I came on this street and y'all became my friends. That's the D puzzle." And readers will find it a puzzle well worth their time.—Kelly Vikstrom, Enoch Pratt Free Library, Baltimore, MD

Gr 7 Up—Jenna, 17, has remade herself. She's lost weight, is invited to social events, likes her alternative high school, and even has a boyfriend. In vivid detail, she recalls the bittersweet events of her earlier life. One of the few non-Mormons in her Salt Lake City grade school, she was a social pariah with only one friend, a boy named Cameron, another outcast. Readers are given fleeting glimpses of happy memories as well as the horrific traumas of their past, including a devastating experience with Cameron's cruel and abusive father and Jenna's belief that Cameron moved away and then died. When he reappears during her senior year, she reassesses her situation—and the person whom she has become—and realizes that the strength of her relationship with her friend spans time and makes her current relationships seem trivial. Zarr's sophisticated writing style, bouncing back and forth in time, teasing readers with further details, is wonderful. The main characters, and their unique bond, are well drawn and believable. Jenna struggles to see the child she was more clearly, to find a way to integrate her past into her present and to work toward self-acceptance. Despite its title, Sweethearts is not saccharine; it is substantial.—Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

Gr 5–8—Caught between her divorced parents' rural and city worlds, JoEllen approaches her 13th birthday with a growing definition and assurance of her personal identity. Half of her name is from her father, Joseph, who calls her Joey; the other half is from her mother, Eleanor, who calls her Ellen. "Now my days—/divided between them—/are as different as my names." The girl's life, however, at each end of the 42 miles that separate her parents, is rich and complicated, and the author subtly develops JoEllen's awareness: "The apple trees/share secrets./The ducks endlessly discuss/the quality of rain" ("Farm Nights"). "An ambulance wailing/cars cussing/cats calling/dogs delivering the news" ("Cincinnati Nights"). The poems meld together into a smooth story that ends with this invitation: "My favorite poems/hold a wooden spoon of words/and whisper:/Taste" ("The Poems I Like Best"). Mixed-media collage illustrations complement the subject of each poem and reinforce the complicated and changing moods of the story. Young people will appreciate this easy-to-read, empowering story.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

Gr 3–8—Brightly colored, appealing reproductions of collages form the basis of Albert's introduction to his own artistic journey and of his passion for promoting the use of recycled materials in art. He explains his Pop Art creations: his patriotic collages, his Pop Cubist portraits of classic American brands, and his "epic works" based mostly on patriotic or biblical concepts. His recurring themes are the overwhelming presence of consumerism in our society and the power of words. Readers will be drawn to the familiar labels and images from well-known products—cereals, soups, candy, sodas—and his arrangement of them into new images will be intriguing, especially for those who appreciate the intricacy of interwoven colors and ideas. Some of the pieces are sure to encourage young artists to experiment with these readily available and inexpensive materials. Indeed, the final page lists the seven simple tools needed to make Albert-style collages. However, one cannot help but notice his self-promotion—mentioning the "Sir Real" organic juice products that he makes and distributes, as well as pitching his availability to give workshops on his artistic methods. Much of what he does is quite clever—the Washington and Lincoln portraits made from money, for instance—and several works, such as his "Judgement (sic) Day" and "You Know What They Say" collages, will send "Where's Waldo"-type fans on an adventure as they search for the hidden words and sayings. While not an essential purchase, this could be a worthwhile addition to illustrate a present-day approach to Pop Art.—Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI

Gr 6 Up—Two up-to-date resources with supplemental full-color reproductions and photos. Axelrod-Contrada opens with the history of drug use from ancient times to the present. She examines how drug use has caused financial, legal, and penal problems over time and discusses popular culture and how drugs have killed many artistic people at young ages. Klosterman has done an excellent job of demonstrating how drugs affect the body functions. The illustrations and captions enhance the information to make it more understandable. All types of drugs are discussed, including inhalants, opiates, contraceptives, etc., giving specific explanations as to which parts of the body are affected. Current and thorough overviews for general interest and for reports.—Lorraine B. Wiener, Inglewood High School, CA

Gr 5–7—Envisioning all forms of life as astronauts "living their days in the life support system on the surface of a giant spaceship," a former editor of Scientific American describes in some detail just how our planet's axial tilt, rotation, and orbital path were discovered and measured, as well as how external forces affect all three. She then goes on to explain how scientists use parallax and other physical effects to determine distances and movements in our galaxy and the universe at large. Though the color illustrations are small, and one picture purportedly showing how to draw an ellipse using a string and two pins is incorrect, in general, the old prints, modern space photos, and clear digital images are well chosen to clarify and enhance the presentation. Closing with substantial lists of multimedia resources for further exploration, this title will make a worthwhile addition to most collections, as it will serve both assignment and interest-driven readers equally well.—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 4–6—These titles introduce readers to famous voyagers, important explorations, and the science used to get these history makers on their journeys. Bingham details Cook's amazing 16th-century expeditions. Readers will be especially interested in the captain's interactions with Native peoples and be wowed by the sheer enormity of the miles traveled and places seen. Gogerly's account of the race to the South Pole will make readers shiver. In an ultimate, to-the-death competition, these well-respected men tried to best each other and bring prestige to their homelands. Kerr explores the planning, equipment, stamina, and luck needed to reach the highest point on Earth, while Marco Polo shows a boy swept onto the Silk Road by both family and commerce. He thrived on the excitement of seeing the world as few ever had, befriended the great Kublai Khan, and ultimately took his stories home to Venice to share with the Western world. Each volume includes historical background, detailed maps, full-color photographs, illustrations, and thorough indexes. The books are slim and attractive, and the information is broken down into easily read paragraph segments with bold headings.—Tracy H. Chrenka, Forest Hills Public Schools, Grand Rapids, MI

Gr 5–8—These titles attempt much and achieve too little. They allude to ancient history and art in their treatment of Celtic, Greco-Roman, and Aztec and Mayan mythology. Brief, dry retellings of legends (the Aeneid in four pages!) are interspersed with factual tidbits about ancient society, government, daily life, and the like. Unfortunately, the organization of the information is hard to discern, and the tables of contents provide no guidance. The photographs of landscapes, relics, and artwork are nicely reproduced, for the most part, but they cannot compensate for the haphazard structure of the texts.—Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Gr 4–7—Carver was born into slavery and raised by German-American farmers in the Ozark Mountains of Missouri, and his humble beginnings could not even hint at the innovative scientist and the passionate educator he would become. Bolden traces the course of his life and reveals how his love of nature, keen intellect, and ingenuity as a problem-solver earned him the name "the Wizard of Tuskegee." His famous research with peanuts represents only a portion of his work; his studies led to the development of hundreds of unexpected products from everyday plants. As a lifelong conservationist, he also pioneered research into the use of vegetables to create fuel. In this richly illustrated picture book, Bolden uses extraordinary historical photos and prints, as well as many reproductions of Carver's own sketches and botanical drawings, to create a well-planned biography that invites readers to peruse. The engaging narrative includes many of Carver's own quotes and sayings. His message, "Regard nature. Revere nature. Respect nature," rings with a truth that is still relevant today. Published in association with Chicago's Field Museum as part of an exhibition, this book includes a comprehensive list of notes and sources but lacks an index or table of contents. It is, however, a wonderful resource that will appeal to young researchers and should be a welcome addition to all biography shelves.—Carole Phillips, Greenacres Elementary School, Scarsdale, NY

Gr 6 Up—These well-organized and concise titles focus on major events in Native American history. Black Hawk provides a clear overview of early American expansion in the Northwest Territory, from the 1780s through the 1930s, detailing government actions and policies of Indian Removal and how they specifically affected the Sauks and Mesquakies, now known as the Sac and Fox tribes. Though not a tribal chief, Black Hawk was an outstanding Sauk warrior who came to represent fierce Native resistance in the eye of the American public during the 1830s. The battles that ensued (both intertribal and against the U.S. forces) are described, as are the policies created during this period, the consequences of which are still felt by tribes today. Attractive color paintings, maps, and photographs appear throughout. Red Power describes and defines what has come to be known as the American Indian Movement, which was extremely active in the 1960s and 1970s. Early resistance (and the U.S. government's response) is summarized briefly and includes a chapter on the massacre at Wounded Knee Creek in 1890. The remaining six chapters focus on pivotal events such as the murders at Pine Ridge Reservation, the occupations of Alcatraz in 1969 and Wounded Knee in 1973, and the subsequent changes in government policy toward Native self-governance. Clear chronologies, extensive bibliographies, and lists for further reading make these books excellent tools for first-time researchers and history buffs alike.—Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 7–9—Three individuals who made long-lasting contributions to African-American history are profiled in these biographies. Each one starts with background information on its subject. Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass were slaves who escaped to freedom, and Malcolm X had a harsh early life and turned to crime until his conversion to Islam in prison. The texts go on to describe the subjects' later lives (in Malcolm X, this includes some mature themes), including their striving for freedom and working for African-American rights, and also mention their legacies and impact on subsequent generations. These are balanced portrayals of real people and the controversies surrounding them. For example, Douglass was criticized by both blacks and whites for marrying a white woman after his first wife died. The narratives are sometimes a bit long and rambling, especially Tubman. However, a time line, glossary, and index will help report writers extract essential facts. The books include black-and-white and color photographs and illustrations, and informative sidebars about related events and people. Anne Schraff's Frederick Douglass (2002) and Harriet Tubman (2001, both Enslow) present the same information just as clearly, if not more succinctly. However, these new biographies are more colorful and attractively designed. Walter Dean Myers's Malcolm X: By Any Means Necessary (Scholastic, 1993) remains one of the best biographies written for young people, but it is a bit longer and not as appealingly presented as this work. Additional.—Kristen Oravec, Stephen S. Wise Elementary School, Los Angeles

Gr 7 Up—This clearly written biography introduces a 16th-century Spanish explorer who made two expeditions to North and South America and eventually became a champion for Native Americans. Shipwrecked off the Florida coast in 1527, Cabeza de Vaca spent seven years traveling across the American Southwest to Spanish Mexico, living with local tribes along the way, first as a prisoner, and later as a trader and healer. His arduous struggles are adroitly told. According to the book's prologue, his experiences caused "a deeper understanding of Native American culture and humanity, his concern for the welfare of native peoples, and his struggle to bring them liberty and justice in a time of unbridled greed, self-interest, and cruelty." Childress's well-researched, lively text will fascinate readers, describing conflicts between Spanish leaders and detailing Cabeza de Vaca's impressions of the various peoples with whom he interacted. The pages are sprinkled with period illustrations and maps. Source notes are extensive, as is the index. There is very little written about this interesting historical figure for this age range, and this book is a worthy resource for report writers.—Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 6–9—These books explore the hidden realms that are the last areas of the world that have yet to be fully explored. Each volume offers historical background and describes current scientific activity. Excellent photographs show the animals found in these environments. Oceans describes dark and unknown spots in different parts of the world, and Beneath the Surface explores caves and underground resources. Jungles introduces the increasingly endangered peoples and biology of these remote habitats. Polar Regions discusses both the Arctic and the Antarctic, covering early exploration, contemporary research, historical and current technology, and the implications of global warming and human incursions into pristine areas. Each volume outlines the many benefits as well as the problems brought on by human exploration into previously undiscovered areas. Sections entitled "In their own words…" quote eminent researchers, scientists, and explorers but neither dates nor sources are given for these statements. "Facts and Statistics" appended to each volume list tidbits such as the longest-lived ocean animal, the size of various rainforests, and the quantity of ice in Antarctica. Overall, these are valuable resources.—Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

Gr 3–7—This powerful picture book relates the lives of Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth on alternating pages, leading up to the women's meeting in Boston in 1864. Many parallels are drawn between these two legendary figures born about 25 years apart and in different areas of the country. Compellingly told with a sure storyteller's cadence, Clinton's chronicle does not spare readers the harshness of the subjects' young years; they suffered beatings, witnessed siblings and family members sold away, endured hard labor, and risked everything for freedom. Both women renamed themselves, taking ownership of their lives and leading and inspiring others on the road to freedom. Evans uses strong outlines to create striking images in rich earth tones. A patchwork motif pieces the text panels and illustrations together with stitches, echoing the quilts mentioned in the text. One expressive illustration depicts young Harriet Tubman with her arms stretched out against a tree whose branches are filled with birds, as she dreams of flying to freedom. The visual parallel is an image of Truth cradling a baby with a bird-filled tree behind her, yearning for freedom for herself and her children. No reports or notes exist from their meeting, so unfortunately the climactic event in this book is all conjecture. An epilogue briefly outlines the rest of their lives, but no source notes are given. Nonetheless, this is a beautiful, uplifting book that is sure to inspire interest in these strong, amazing women.—Robin L. Gibson, Granville Parent Cooperative Preschool, OH

Gr 5–8—This overview of the ancient Hohokam, Anasazi, and Mogollon peoples, known collectively as the Pueblo, focuses more on the "how" of discovering the past and the "who" of archaeologists investigating their stories than on the people themselves. The beautiful illustrations include a time line of Pueblo history and clear maps showing the areas of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah that the Pueblo occupied. Glossy full-color photos of weapons, pottery, baskets, and artwork provide a vivid record of their lives as do the haunting glimpses of the remains of their dwellings, canals, and an ancient network of roads extending hundreds of miles. Artists' renditions of such daily activities as hunting, farming, and home life bring these ancient peoples to life. Sidebars within the chapters describe how archaeologists determine ancient dates—the use of tree rings for dating (dendrochronology); the appearance of obsidian flakes at sites distant from their volcano birthplaces to indicate trading networks; and the comparison of the magnetic particles within clay used in ancient structures to the Earth's different magnetic fields. Scientists at work in protected sites are also shown. This title will augment and update existing material on the Pueblo and will appeal to budding archaeologists.—Frances E. Millhouser, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA

Gr 9 Up—While some of these selections are laugh-out-loud funny, others are pathetic or make little sense, and many are so short that there isn't the rise and crest necessary to be useful for character work. The monologues are too brief for competitions, and they are not challenging enough even for a classroom setting with beginners. Dabrowski does use subject matter that is important and interesting to teens, including their appearance and their worries. The book is organized logically with half of the monologues for females and the other half for males. The author captures the teen voice, but because she doesn't vary it, everything ends up sounding the same. Peg Kehret's Tell It Like It Is (Meriwether, 2007) has more positive aspects.—Terrilyn Fleming, Colby Public Schools, KS

Gr 3–8—These books utilize popular construction toys with interlocking wooden logs and pieces. In each volume, 37 ideas are clearly illustrated with the added bonus of an instructional CD-ROM for Macintosh and PC computers so children and the grown-ups who assist them can follow along as they build. Projects start with the easiest designs and progress to the most challenging. For some ideas, more than one set of Lincoln Logs™ or Tinkertoy™ pieces is required. The blueprints for the projects (without any text) are excellent with digitally rendered illustrations showing how pieces should interlink and what the completed project looks like. These are books that allow imaginative older kids to work alone and younger ones to have quality time with the adults who assist them. A wide variety of construction possibilities will satisfy readers, including a house, fort, cabin, schoolhouse, tree house, lighthouse, and bridge in Lincoln Logs, and a necklace, airplane, dragster, rocket ship, helicopter, pirate ship, and ferris wheel in Tinkertoy. Welcome additions to craft collections, as well as great gift books when paired with the toys.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—An excellent introduction to this artistic movement. Demilly traces its beginnings to the work of early-20th-century French and German artists such as Marcel Duchamp, Kurt Schwitters, and Fernand Léger. He then shows how Pop Art grew to comment particularly on American society, both in its glamour and its excesses. Each clear, one-page explanation of the various aspects of Pop Art is set opposite a one-half- or full-page, high-quality color reproduction of a famous work, from the instantly familiar Beatles's Sgt. Pepper's album cover to Mel Ramos's provocative Velveeta and Robert Rauschenberg's Retroactive II. Additional, smaller reproductions of equally well-known works, such as Jasper Johns's Flag and Andy Warhol's Campbell's Soup Can I, are also included. Some of the illustrations contain nudity. The visual images are more prominent than the text, an appropriate design choice for a book commenting on a style known for its in-your-face effect. Several quotes from Pop artists emphasize a point being made by the author, and mini-biographies of the 10 individuals whose art is featured help to put their work in perspective. This is a clear, easy-to-follow description of an often-misunderstood artistic style. The use of high-quality paper results in better reproductions than those found in Judy Galens and Mark Swartz's Artists: From Michelangelo to Maya Lin (Gale, 2001). Readers with a fascination for modern art will welcome this well-written book.—Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI

Gr 9 Up—Focusing in great detail on overexploitation of natural resources, these utilitarian books will be valuable resources for science reports. In Biosphere, "The Sixth Extinction" section is its most useful. A table lists five previous mass events, after which the factors contributing to today's conditions (loss of habitat, pollution, climate change, overharvesting, and invasive species) are methodically outlined with accompanying statistics. The color diagrams, maps, and photographs (some of which are upsetting) are few but effective. The second book opens with an overview of the world's oceans, then discusses marine resources, the effects of pollution and other human activities (overfishing, habitat destruction), and the future of these natural resources. The introductory material is available elsewhere, and overall the work is more textbooklike than photograph-rich volumes such as the Smithsonian Institution and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Hidden Depths (Collins, 2007). Still, libraries that need detail on the toll that increased human activity takes on the oceans will find the discussions and statistics useful. Both books include quotes from reliable sources such as the academic journals Nature and Science, and the further-reading lists (Biosphere's is more thorough) also include citations from these resources, as well as from popular publications.—Henrietta Thornton, School Library Journal

Gr 6 Up—In a style that's as busy as the CosmoGIRL! Web site and the popular teen magazine by the same name, this book is overflowing with workout options and great-looking teenage girls. It begins with a five-question quiz to determine one's style, followed by a few pages of brief workouts to match the quiz results. Next comes a stretching series. Their placement is confusing, as both come before chapter one. Workout routines take up the rest of the book. The four sections—mind-body connection, cardio workouts, toning moves, and workouts for all occasions (misspelled in the table of contents)—are filled with a variety of routines created by established trainers and teachers, but often it's hard to see why a routine is in one section and not in another. Photographs are clear and colorful (though more of them would make some of the moves easier to follow) and instructions are brief but informative. Some exercises refer readers to the Web site for instructions (these look very much like the photos in the book). While filled with many exercise options, there aren't enough of any one kind to create a well-rounded routine. Many exercises, especially those using weight machines, ought to be taught in person or at least via video, as doing some of them can be dangerous if done incorrectly. The book misses the chance to explain the value of taking a class, getting medical advice, warming up, and cooling down. Purchase only where the magazine is wildly popular, and display it with books that offer more information on working out.—Susan Oliver, Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System, FL

Gr 7–10—These visually appealing and easy-to-read volumes are definitely worth having. The information is up-to-date and the format is attractive. Favor begins with chapters on nutrition and healthy eating and then details three major eating disorders—anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating. She includes a number of charts, graphs, and appendixes to help students understand them. Lists of warning signs for each disorder help young people spot potential trouble in themselves or friends. By going beyond report fodder and engaging readers, this title could be the help that some teens are looking for, or at least a stepping stone to getting that help. Body Fuel gives students an overview of nutrition and then goes into detail about carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Chapters on vitamins and the importance of water to your system are also included. This title is very accessible and can be used for reports or for reading up on a topic that many students find interesting.—Robin Henry, Griffin Middle School, Frisco, TX

Gr 10 Up—An update to the 2000 collection of essays, arguing both sides of traditional feminist issues. Four chapters, each with at least five articles, address feminism as a concept and whether or not it is now obsolete in the West and elsewhere; sexuality and reproduction, including abortion rights; women's roles in the workplace, the military, and the clergy; and, finally, women's roles on the domestic front, including the support of same-sex marriage. Students arguing various aspects of these topics will find plenty of supporting material for their theses. Two of the more topical essays center on feminism and the Arab world. Each article is preceded with questions to consider, and each chapter closes with its own periodical bibliography. A solid addition to most collections.—Carol Fazioli, Gwynedd-Mercy College, Gwynedd Valley, PA

Gr 9 Up—Fleming describes the spectrum of liberalism, capitalism, socialism, and communism. He praises the cradle-to-grave welfare states of Western Europe, contrasting them with ideas put forth by Karl Marx and Lázardo Cárdenas. Lansford makes the claim that democracies are the most common form of government worldwide. Readers who skim for information could become confused when, for example, Great Britain is cited as a democracy on one page, and on the next, as a constitutional monarchy. Closer reading of the text clearly shows the differences among presidential and parliamentary democracies and constitutional monarchies. Perl opens with the history of Iran, its beginning as the Persian Empire, the Islamist conquest, secular years under the Shah, and the Islamic Revolution. This style of theocracy is contrasted with ancient Egypt, the Aztecs, Incas, and Joseph Smith's plan for a theocracy in America under the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Each volume includes primary sources when appropriate (e.g., John Locke's treatise in Democracy) and photos and political cartoons throughout. Some colorful pages act as biographical sidebars, but overall, the books do not use a visual-bite approach; there is solid information here. These volumes are for an older audience than the "Political and Economic Systems" series (Heinemann Library).—Linda Beck, Indian Valley Public Library, Telford, PA

Gr 7–10—Two interactive science books. Gardner begins both volumes with a brief discussion of their subjects, then defines science fairs and stresses the importance of going beyond these initial experiments if one expects to enter an actual competition. The scientific method is described in a fair amount of detail, and there is a serious discussion of safety issues. Experiments that require adult supervision are clearly marked, and readers are often directed to a science teacher for one or more of the listed items. The projects can be a bit overwhelming for students to tackle independently, but they will find the "you will need" lists quite useful. In Astronomy, students should be familiar and confident with math. In Chemistry, they need a certain understanding of chemical equations. The digitally rendered diagrams are helpful in clarifying the written directions. These volumes are involving and entertaining, but they might work best in a classroom setting.—Karen Scott, Valley Intermediate School, Pelham, AL

Gr 9 Up—Following an introduction by Harold Bloom, this book includes a general overview on how to write critical essays and a chapter on how to read and write about Shakespeare in particular, with some brief background material on Elizabethan and Jacobean history and theater. The body of the book consists of chapters on writing about 11 commonly studied Shakespeare plays, including Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Hamlet, and Macbeth. These chapters are full of sound, practical advice, with a nice variety of suggested topics for each play, focusing on such subjects as themes, individual characters, form and genre, and compare/contrast essays, and Gleed's analyses of the plays are excellent. However, the tone is quite scholarly and academic. Less-able students would be completely bewildered by some of the suggested topics (colonialism in The Tempest, for example), making this title most suitable for advanced high school and college students.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 7 Up—These titles describe the lengthy and complicated process involved in getting a case to the Court, setbacks, important events along the way, and related cases following the decision. Gold looks at the issue of interracial marriage, brought to the forefront in 1958 with the arrest of a couple living in Virginia. She discusses the history of interracial-marriage laws, the impact of the 14th amendment, civil rights issues, and the couple's struggle to have their case heard in the Supreme Court. Perl discusses Nancy Cruzan's parents' quest for her right to die following an auto accident and her resulting vegetative state. Highlights include the discussion of religious arguments, physician-assisted suicide, and the cases of Karen Ann Quinlan and Terry Schiavo. Stefoff shows how Furman's murder case, guilty verdict, and death sentence went through the process of appeals to the final decision. Discussions of the history of the death penalty and the use of the electric chair, gas chamber, and lethal injection contribute insight into the controversy and complexities of the case. In all three volumes, additional information is presented in sidebars. Occasional black-and-white and color photos add interest. The titles in the "Supreme Court Cases through Primary Sources" series (Rosen) are easier to read and understand, but do not mention many of the lower-court cases included here. The corresponding volumes in the "Debating Supreme Court Decisions" series (Enslow) present information and then pose questions to challenge readers to consider both sides of the issue. They do have a chapter pertaining to lower-court cases and Supreme Court cases, laws, etc.—Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE

Gr 5–8—Each volume begins with background information and then goes on to give various examples and findings regarding the topic. Creatures includes the Kraken, lake monsters, and sea serpents; Lost Cities has chapters on Atlantis, Camelot, El Dorado, and Shangri-La; and Monsters includes the Abominable Snowman; the mapinguari, giant sloths believed to live in the Amazon rainforests; and the chupacabra, a creature supposedly first sighted in Puerto Rico. The detailed texts are more factual than sensational with full-color photos and illustrations to substantiate findings, but there are no bibliographies.—Judy Chichinski, Skyline Elementary School, Tacoma, WA

Gr 8 Up—There is indeed a softer side, and Haskins-Bookser brings her hip-hop sensibility to a genre—poetry—that is really at the heart and soul of both hip-hop and rap. She voices the hopes, fears, and joys of a single teen mother. Eighteen herself when her first child was born, she knows firsthand what it's like to be a child raising a child. Her poems reflect her yearning to better herself, her love for her baby, the need to have her baby's father in her life, and the frustration of not having him there. Her poems are at once cautionary, but are tales of hope and transcendence as well. Each poem is heartfelt and well crafted. This is a lovely treasure, enhanced by Moffett's beautifully executed drawings and quotes from teen mothers.—Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 6 Up—Covering pandemics from AIDS to obesity, this book consists of essays that present contrasting opinions (for example, whether the threat of avian flu is serious or exaggerated). Other chapters discuss pandemic causes (with emphasis on the origin of the rise in obesity rates) and prevention. Though the title is similar to those in the "Opposing Viewpoints" series, it is not as in-depth, and therefore may be more user-friendly for less-competent readers. The selections are written by professionals in widely divergent fields, so readers get, for example, a governmental view, a magazine account, or a scientific analysis of a topic. The information is complete enough for projects on pandemics in general, though it doesn't go into great detail on any one type. Complete with a list of organizations to contact, this is a useful addition.—Kristen M. Todd, Middle Country Public Library, Centereach, NY

Gr 4–6—Hoyt-Goldsmith and Migdale's latest photo-essay uses the tried-and-true format of their earlier collaborations to follow Rosalba (Rosie) Rosas and her family as they celebrate Cinco de Mayo in her Mexican-American community in California. Hoyt-Goldsmith quickly sets the record straight—the holiday is not an observation of Mexico's independence, but a celebration of a victory over the French in 1862. Other historical notes include a brief overview of immigration to the United States and the origin of mariachi music. The prose comes alive when paired with Migdale's vibrant photographs of Rosie's family life: the running of their grocery store, the traditional dance performances, and the public fiesta for the holiday are juxtaposed with the private celebration of her grandmother's birthday. It is this masterful blend of information with universal family moments that makes this title such a welcome addition.—Joanna K. Fabicon, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 7–10—Beginning with a brief history of stress from the time it was first identified, Hyde and Forsyth detail its effects on a young person's brain, heart, and immune system. While this sounds dry and relatively uninteresting, the writing is clear and informative. Interspersed with personal vignettes, the factual information is well organized and presented in small increments. One chapter focuses on various forms of meditation, and another offers a variety of self-help stress-reduction techniques. Black-and-white photographs appear every few pages, primarily breaking up the text. A solid resource for general information and for reports.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 10 Up—These titles explore the theme of racism in two modern classics that are required reading in many English classes. In each book, a succinct introduction and time line of the author's life set the context for the work under discussion. These are followed by brief essays on racism from a variety of viewpoints related to the author and the characters and situations in the book (including a section of "Modern Perspectives," in which essays discuss, for example, how Barack Obama's experiences compare to Maya Angelou's). Biographical and critical information about the authors, further readings, detailed indexes, and well-chosen black-and-white illustrations enhance the texts. Most of the essays were written by academics. Students may find some of the language inaccessible or at least unfamiliar as when, for example, Maya Angelou is described in "Jungian archetypal terms" as "the anima" and her brother Bailey as "the animus." Although the essays are not long enough to serve as in-depth secondary sources for students with writing assignments on either book, their varied perspectives offer a wealth of ideas for papers and warrant purchase where demand dictates.—Leah J. Sparks, formerly at Bowie Public Library, MD

Gr 3–6—Katz, who established his place as a writer of humorous children's poetry with Take Me Out of the Bathtub (S & S, 2001), has another winner here. This collection of more than 100 short, funny, rhyming poems never lags. It includes occasional (rather funny) potty humor, such as when the young Shakespeare faces the toilet and pronounces, "To pee or not to pee." Puns and other groaners abound and are sure to delight young readers, especially boys. In the last chapter, Katz offers an offbeat account of how he became a children's poet and includes photocopies of some of his grade-school papers. The tone of this section is conversational, and every bit as entertaining as the poems. Koren's pen-and-ink cartoons resemble the art in Shel Silverstein's collections. The illustrations match the tone of the book and sometimes add extra interpretations of the poems. This is a great choice for reluctant poetry readers and aspiring class clowns.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 5–7—Fortunately, these series titles take a historical slant on the topic, as "hottest" can slip into a centigrade slump at the clack of a tappet. Written for auto aficionados, the stolid, readable texts present a parade of muscle cars (think '63 Chevy Corvette Sting Ray) and sports cars (a '96 Ferrari F50—red, of course!). NASCAR contains less about the cars and more about the milieu of racing itself. In each book, the text is simple but detailed, and the colorful photos are crisp. All have "Wild Fact" boxes. Not as supercool as gunning down Route 66 in a '66 Dodge Charger, but a fresh tune-up for any aged entries sitting on the shelf.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 9 Up—Just in time for this year's campaign cycle, this collection of essays addresses the American election process. Four chapters feature pro/con articles on the roles of primaries and conventions in the nomination process, campaign financing, media coverage, and the electoral college. Each chapter has four to six selections offering a wide range of opinions on these themes. Articles are up-to-date (2000–2007) and from a wide variety of sources, including The Nation, the Atlantic Monthly, the National Review Online, and others. As in other books in the series, readers are encouraged to read, study, and form opinions based on the wide range of selections presented here. Political cartoons are scattered throughout, and information about the 2007 Presidential Funding Act is included. An excellent resource for students, teachers, and parents.—Linda Beck, Indian Valley Public Library, Telford, PA

Gr 4–8—Most of the poems in this collection are short, and topics range from personal yet universal issues such as following the crowd ("…the path to conformity/is different for each person") to the abstract, like the comically sad lot of being a peppercorn (which, "…fell in a sprinkling/of savory dust"). The most successful of them express a moment or emotion in a new and surprising way; one begins, "How, without arms/did the sun/climb over the trees?" A few focus on wordplay to the exclusion of much meaning, and others seem young for the target audience ("Eat a Duck" ends with, "…there's nothing like a quacker on a cracker./Quack"). Still others might appeal to parents more than kids ("Bringing Baby Home" is about just that). In fact, figuring out who the target audience is, and trying to steer those children to it, may be the biggest obstacle for this quiet and interesting book. The black-and-white pictures are a great addition, with images that support the offbeat, deceptively simple tone of many of the verses. Overall, though, this may be best for larger collections or those with a special interest in unusual poetry offerings.—Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL

Gr 5–8— Japanese Mythology presents not only an introduction to Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, but also Japanese history and mythology in general. Porterfield does the same for the Scandinavian nations, introducing concepts and characters central to Norse myths. Both books spend almost as much time on history, giving context to the stories and settings featured, as they do on the tales themselves, and both show how they still impact the culture of the nations where they originated. The focus on these aspects means there is less space devoted to the actual tales, but both books feature an overview of the cosmology and some myths of gods and heroes, giving the flavor of the tales in a succinct fashion. The most remarkable part of these books, however, is the respect they show for the mythological customs, treating them throughout with the same care that writers of books on major religions might offer. The illustrations show both ancient and modern incarnations of the deities and heroes described in the texts. Libraries hoping to strengthen their mythology collections will find these books ideal.—Alana Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT

Gr 6–9—In 1958, four-year-old Moying Li lived with her extended family in a hutong, a neighborhood of traditional courtyard houses, in Beijing. By the fall of that year, the Great Leap Forward had begun, and their courtyard had been transformed by the addition of a huge brick furnace where family and neighbors worked unceasingly, throwing in bits of scrap metal, which produced only a useless, inferior steel. In her engaging memoir of growing up in China, Li tells the story of her family's efforts first to follow with enthusiasm Chairman Mao's dictates and then to comply with them despite disillusionment and fear. In 1963, when she was nine, Li went to the Foreign Language School, where she thrived. Her life changed in 1966, the beginning of the Cultural Revolution, when her beloved teachers were attacked by Red Guards and the headmaster of the school hanged himself. Her mother had been sent to the countryside to teach, and eventually her father was denounced and packed off to a labor camp. This beautifully written memoir joins a growing body of literature, such as Ji-Li Jiang's Red Scarf Girl (HarperCollins, 1997) and Chen Yu's Little Green (S & S, 2005), about life in China during the Cultural Revolution. Because this book starts with the Great Leap Forward and extends beyond the end of the Cultural Revolution, it offers a somewhat broader view of a nation in turmoil and illustrates the grit and determination necessary for survival in a dysfunctional society.—Barbara Scotto, Children's Literature New England, Brookline, MA

Gr 4–6—Lord introduces Arn Chorn-Pond, who, in 1975 when the Khmer Rouge attacked his village, was taken to a children's work camp. There, he labored in the rice paddies in enforced silence, starving for food and the joyful sound of music. When the soldiers asked for volunteers to learn the khim, a traditional Cambodian instrument, he bravely raised his hand. Later he escaped, ended up in a Thai refugee camp, and was rescued by an American volunteer who adopted him before returning to the U.S. As Chorn-Pond struggled to adjust to this new life, he began to make music again, which allowed him to heal, and vowed to return to his homeland to help others in the same way. Gouache paintings underscore the changing mood of Chorn-Pond's story. The beginning scene depicts him playing with his siblings against a light blue sky. Later, the colors turn darker, underlining the horrors of the prison camp. The final spread shows Chorn-Pond smiling in a bright room, playing the khim for his new American family. A preface provides historical context, and an afterword offers more information about Chorn-Pond and an extensive source list. Use this solid picture-book biography with Jen Bryant's Music for the End of Time (Eerdmans, 2005), another story about triumphing over suffering with the help of music.—Monika Schroeder, American Embassy School Library, New Delhi, India

Gr 4 Up—Marcus has updated his 1998 introduction to six medalists to include a six-page chapter featuring Mordecai Gerstein's creation of The Man Who Walked Between the Towers (Millbrook, 2003). Written as the author/illustrator's response to the 2001 destruction by terrorists of New York's World Trade Center buildings, Gerstein's book is a well-chosen representative of the winners of the past 10 years. Other changes in this new edition include a two-page preface, an extended "Index of Proper Nouns," and an updated list of Caldecott Medal winners (through 2007). Illustrations include preliminary drawings and photos of authors, book covers, and related items and places. The value of this volume is that Marcus makes these exceptional author/illustrators, and the processes by which they created their award-winning picture books, accessible to children and to adults who value children's literature. His insights—derived from interviewing each of the artists—allow readers to become sideline participants in the creative processes that resulted in the characters and stories that we have come to love. Teachers, librarians, and parents will find a source of inspiration here.—Susan Scheps, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH

Gr 4–7—The excitement of rivalry with a driving beat pounds through this account of the Hamilton Hill Steel Drum Band's journey through three amateur rounds in the Super Top Dog competition at Harlem's Apollo Theater. Marx introduces the seven young men, a combination of brothers and friends who attend the John Sayles School of Fine Arts and The Hamilton Hill Arts Center in Schenectady, NY. Dancers, singers, and talented musicians proficient on varied instruments, the musicians share a passionate dedication to their dreams that has helped them overcome a variety of family and personal difficulties. Marx traces the band's progress through the tiers of competition in clear evocative prose depicting the visceral experience of performing as well as the hard work of practice and composition. Senisi's color photographs enliven every page with shots of the teens (her son among them), the crowds, and the theater, capturing the thrill of the experience. Sidebars offer interesting background information about musical instruments and equipment, aspects of performance, and the Apollo itself. A CD of the band performing eight original selections, including their signature piece, "Bailamos," completes readers' sensory experience. More than just the story of a music competition, Steel Drumming at the Apollo is an inspiring story of young people overcoming personal odds with creativity and vision.—Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 5 Up—Collections containing older art history books filled with inferior illustrations and black-and-white reproductions will get a face-lift with this well-designed and appealing volume. Mason has pulled together about 250 full-color reproductions, which are fascinating to peruse in and of themselves, for this chronological survey. Best of all, there are "Showcase" sections that focus on a single work and use captions to deconstruct the artist's technique and vision, as well as give historical context to different aspects of the work. There are also cutaways of architectural works of art, such as the Colosseum and the Acropolis. The text is thorough and, while the pertinent information is given, Mason still includes some fun morsels that readers may be unfamiliar with: the Romans mass-produced sculptures of headless bodies and an artist would merely attach the sculpted likeness of some patrician to the already-created body. The material is dense and occasionally overwhelming, covering most of Europe; luckily, the index is very thorough. Some of the art-related terms may be unfamiliar to many readers, but the lack of a glossary is not a serious omission. A solid addition for most libraries.—Laura Lutz, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 5–9—This collective biography reveals the paths that 16 diverse dancers followed to become professionals and to join prestigious companies. Each story is unique, but there are common threads that include hard work, sacrifice, and a joy and passion to dance that overcame any obstacles encountered. Some burned out for a while. Some started late. Some faced rejection because of their body type. Ultimately, they found what worked best for them. The tone of the text is conversational, and quotes are included. The profiles begin with lists: the styles of dance studied, childhood pets and favorite books, activities then and now, etc. In sidebars, the dancers offer brief but pertinent advice about performing, taking classes and auditioning, and so on. Black-and-white photos show each dancer as a child or young adult and then as a professional. The pictures dramatically capture how talented these performers are. Anyone, whether considering a career in dance or not, will be inspired and educated by these up-close-and-personal accounts.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 4–8—This visually entertaining guide engages readers with short, lively text; humorous, surprising illustrations; and sound techniques for composing and designing books. Pietromarchi begins, "Books are like houses," and explains that, like a door on a house, the covers of books protect what is inside and hide it until it is revealed. The author continues this playful tone throughout and alternately discusses plot and characters with chapters on using school supplies and found objects to create illustrations. The chapter entitled "The Seed of Your Story" refers to the plot and notes that, "For a story to be a story, something has to happen: things go on as usual until one particular event changes everything." Other chapters include how to use a storyboard to plan a narrative as well as directions for specialty books such as scrolls and pop-ups. The Book Book is a work of art unto itself. The pictures are colorful and varied to include collage, watercolor, pen-and-ink, and other media. The chapter "Massaging Your Imagination" is an engaging writing workshop that has readers explore vocabulary, setting, and characters as they are prompted to list a "favorite word," "a friend," "a journey," and more. A few European references may give readers a bit of difficulty, such as listing measurements in centimeters and suggesting the use of vinyl glue called "Fevicol," but mostly the book translates well. This title is sure to appeal to readers' creative impulses.—Carole Phillips, Greenacres Elementary School, Scarsdale, NY

Gr 4–8—A clever craft collection. The introduction sets the tone for creating projects using mostly cardboard, glue, pencils, rubber bands, and a few other easily obtainable materials. A few of the projects can be made by children working independently, but ideally, this book should be used with adult assistance. Readers will learn about corrugated and flat cardboard, and how to use glue and work with templates. Excellent instructions are accompanied by black-and-white photos every step of the way; unfortunately, they are dull and fuzzy and do not reflect the exciting possibilities of the completed activity. Children will learn how science (friction, gravity) applies to these building ideas. These projects are fun to construct, and inquisitive minds will be fascinated by the moving cars, whether done for a science project or strictly for leisure-time enjoyment.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 3–6—Jewish folktales, legends, parables, tall tales, and rabbinic teaching tales have been retold by a well-known storyteller. A short introductory paragraph notes the theme of each story, and the ample glossary and extensive list of sources provide thorough background information. The book is visually arresting, decorated with dignified paintings by an Italian illustrator and designed with jewel-toned borders and plenty of white space. Unfortunately, Schram's prowess as a live storyteller does not translate well onto the printed page. Without the timing, expression, and gestures of the performer, these tales feel didactic and stiff, like an unplayed musical score waiting for instruments to bring it to life. The illustrations, despite their skilled execution, match the stilted feel of the text in the dour, unsmiling faces and static poses of the characters. The excellent source material will not be properly appreciated by the intended audience. For livelier collections of Jewish folktales, seek out Howard Schwartz's books for children.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

Gr 5–8—Israeli teen Bat-Chen Shahak was killed by a suicide bomber in 1996. This collection of her writings includes letters, diary entries, and doodles. She was an idealistic girl, at the stage of realizing and protesting the world's ills. She was discovering life's painful truths (political unrest, the sorrow of losing a loved one), and readers may feel as though they've found a friend in her chatty diary. However, despite the inevitable comparisons, she's no Anne Frank. She reveals no great insight, and many of her writings (often poems written for special occasions) are downright shmaltzy. Clunky translation, the randomness of the selections, and the lack of context for the political references detract from the book's impact. The photos, reprinted in sepia and lacking captions, appear flat and dull. Perhaps the best aspect of the book is the opportunity to see Hebrew writing in a casual, kid-friendly way instead of in the ceremonial context with which American readers are more familiar. Nonetheless, this rare glimpse into the life of a normal Israeli girl is made more poignant by her death and will be welcome in most collections.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

Gr 6 Up—This biography is a reworking of the best-selling Mockingbird (Holt, 2006), adapted for young adults. Shields spotlights Lee's lifelong friendship with Truman Capote and the creation of To Kill a Mockingbird, showing how the publication and success of that book affected the rest of her life. Shields uses previously conducted interviews with Lee and her family, friends, and neighbors. He pulls from books, magazine articles, newspapers, and radio and television interviews to piece together this life story of the notoriously press-shy Lee. The author's clear and appealing style is much the same as in Mockingbird and this adaptation appears to have been not so much edited as streamlined. Photos include Lee, her family, friends, and the famous Hollywood actors who made the film version of her book. I Am Scout moves along at a good pace, and Lee's quiet life makes for a surprisingly fascinating read. Perhaps because Shields is pulling from so many sources, the occasional turn of phrase comes across as oddly formal, but generally, this is an immensely readable, intriguing tale of a quiet, private author.—Geri Diorio, The Ridgefield Library, CT

Gr 4–8—The information in these titles is clearly and attractively presented. The approachable texts and engaging illustrations make them stand out from other science titles for this audience. In the first book, after discussing adaptation and how it relates to evolution, the book then covers seasonal and extreme habitat changes, and those that plants and animals have made to protect themselves against predators. The last chapter focuses on human adaptation. In the second title, chapter headings organize complex topics into manageable segments such as "Growing Up Human," "Animals without Backbones," "Animals with Backbones," and "How Plants Grow." Both books are extremely readable and packed with fascinating examples. Boxed areas highlight particularly interesting facts, keeping readers engaged. Color photographs, maps, or other illustrations appear on virtually every page. These appealing titles are good for reports and general interest.—Ragan O'Malley, Saint Ann's School, Brooklyn, NY

Gr 5–8—In Smith's odes, each Olympian is reminiscent of the superheroes in today's canon of graphic novel and film-adventure stories. Colorful illustrations drawn in classic comic-book style bring this connection vividly to life; men are mostly muscular, while women are presented with long hair, flowing gowns, etc. While sometimes awkwardly structured or confusingly verbose, the poems nevertheless succeed in their intent to present the most notable attributes of these larger-than-life figures. An appendix of "Who's Who" lists the gods or goddesses' parentage, other monikers, symbols, and brief details of their legendary acts. A bibliography notes both classic and newer references for further reading. Fans of fantasy, comic books, and adventure stories will be irresistibly drawn to The Mighty 12 for general reading. Despite some flaws, the accessible artwork and popular subject matter should generate circulation.—Jayne Damron, Farmington Community Library, MI

Gr 4–5—This browsable pair of books provides a plethora of attractive artwork and simple, brief paragraphs of text to accompany each picture. Both titles include a glossary and an index, though such headings as "Water, cats' use of" and "Why animals build" may be a tad confusing to novice seekers of specifics. The first book delves into the realm of "homes" created by critters, from burrowers (moles) to communal abodes (termites), with a fast flick into the world of coral polyps. Fangs flips through predators of land, sea, and sky, with a quick peek at a couple of extinct species (think tyrannosaurs). A discussion of the food chain on the African veldt is included, as is a section on the defenses of some prey. The information provided in both books is sound-bite quality and a tad disjointed, but the illustrations are quietly appealing.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 10 Up—This volume will be a much-sought-after source. At first glance, it almost seems too good to be true: a book that will actually guide them through a paper on Nathaniel Hawthorne? However, while Sterling includes a chapter on how to write a good essay, she asks more questions than she answers in terms of Hawthorne, encouraging students to engage their own thoughts and imaginations within the context of his works instead of force-feeding themes and ideas to them. An individual chapter is devoted to expected titles, such as The House of the Seven Gables and The Scarlet Letter, as well as to the relatively little-known "Roger Malvin's Burial" and "The Birth-Mark." The format is fairly uniform, with themes, characters, symbols and the like all discussed, or rather represented, by way of the many thoughtful musings with which Sterling leaves readers. A section on "Compare and Contrast Essays," in which a particular title is discussed in relation to other works, is especially useful. A thorough bibliography closes each chapter and a solid index is appended.—Carol Fazioli, Gwynedd-Mercy College, Gwynedd Valley, PA

Gr 4–6—NASCAR bait on a science hook is at the heart of this series. Interesting racing information is linked primarily to physics and math, giving readers problems to solve and experiments to do, all neatly nestled into a bright framework of photos and readable texts on color-photo-splashed pages. While most readers will be NASCAR aficionados, they may never have considered how much is spent on tires for a race, how drivers judge draft distances, or how much weight a pit-crew gas man schleps in the course of a 500-mile race. They also may not have thought much about the physical conditioning of pit-crew members until trying the push-up experiment, or the tire-changing time test. Each title contains a glossary (different), a list of further readings/Web site/video game (identical), and an index. These titles provide some energetic spoonfuls of STP to make the science go down without a click or a clack in those finely tuned engines.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 6–10—In 1951, a group of African-American high school students in Prince Edward County, VA, went on strike to protest the substandard conditions in their segregated school. They eventually became plaintiffs in a lawsuit that was one of the five that were part of the 1954 Brown decision. In 1959, Prince Edward County closed its schools rather than comply with desegregation orders, and deprived thousands of black students of an education until county schools reopened in 1964. Fear of retribution and lingering bitterness has kept the strike leaders silent, but Stokes, who was among them, has decided that the story of the strike and its aftermath needed to be told. He opens by describing how he and his family survived under the severe restrictions of the Jim Crow South. He then explains how the students' desire for a more equal education motivated them to create and implement intricate strike plans and discusses how the local African-American community supported their efforts in spite of the "massive resistance" of white Virginians. Period black-and-white photos and maps are included. Stokes's inspiring story reveals an almost completely unreported part of one of the most important court cases of the 20th century, and it will hold the interest of researchers and readers, making this an important choice for all collections.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 8 Up—This title addresses the severity of eating disorders as a public health threat, the causes that contribute to them, treatment, and media/Internet coverage. These essays will challenge teens to think about the different facets of these disorders and understand just how complex they are. While occasional sidebars break up the text-heavy presentation, no illustrative material is included. A list of organizations that can provide help and further information on the topic is appended. A solid addition.—Kristen M. Todd, Middle Country Public Library, Centereach, NY

Gr 5–9—This engaging presentation of early exploration of the Americas offers both fact and speculation on who, when, and why voyagers came; how they traveled; and what evidence they left behind. Did Phoenicians flee their Greek conquerors in 146 BCE and land in New Hampshire, building America's mysterious "Stonehenge" and etching Phoenician letters into rocks? Are the ancient Irish beehive-shaped homes, scattered as ruins throughout New England, clues to the presence of persecuted Irish monks living among Native Americans more than 1000 years ago? Did the complexion and Welsh vocabulary of the reputedly "white" Mandan tribe of North Dakota result from assimilation of Prince Madoc's Welsh expedition in the 12th century? How did gold spearheads from West Africa become artifacts of the Olmec people of Central America? Citing legends and sagas, oral and written histories, and archaeological discoveries, Wulffson presents an intriguing array of possibilities that includes Romans, Vikings, Chinese, Irish, and Africans. Similar in content, format, documentation, and audience appeal, Russell Freedman's Who Was First? Discovering the Americas (Clarion, 2007) is more selective, factual, and colorful. Although well-captioned images and eye-catching sidebars enhance Wulffson's text, the brown and blue washed illustrations lack vibrancy. Nonetheless, the stories and unanswered questions about pre-Columbian voyagers will capture the imaginations of many readers, offer fascinating glimpses of different cultural groups, stimulate further research, and establish that Columbus's latecomer discovery fame can be attributed to the printing press, good publicity, and his royal backing.—Gerry Larson, Durham School of the Arts, NC

Gr 8 Up—Similar to Yoder's George Washington, the Writer (Boyds Mills, 2003), this book offers a selection of Adams's writings from his days as a 19-year-old grammar-school teacher to shortly before his death at age 90. A brief biography precedes the writings, which are arranged chronologically. Adams's courtship of Abigail Smith, service as a delegate to the First Continental Congress, overseas diplomacy, presidency, and retirement are all illustrated in the well-chosen writings. Yoder's succinct introductions provide ample context for each selection, and the diverse writings give a sense of the man's intelligence, resolve, and dedication to the ideals that created America, along with his growing sense of stewardship over the fledgling nation. Numerous black-and-white illustrations and a list of historic sites round out the title. Serious history buffs may want a more exhaustive collection of writings or a more complete biography, but those who seek an easily digestible overview of the second president's life and times will find this book both informative and appealing.—Leah J. Sparks, formerly at Bowie Public Library, MD