Grades 5 & Up

Gr 9 Up—While there are a few illustrations at the beginning of the book and a two-page "comicalized" passage at the end, most of this book is a straightforward novel. However, the subject of manga, whether it be doujinshi (self-published) or even yaoi (gay love stories) permeates the book. Familiarity with Japan's truly bizarre maid café phenomenon will be helpful to readers who might otherwise be dumbfounded by waitresses who refer to their customers as "Master" and "Mistress" and who create designs on their customers' dishes using only ketchup and their imagination. This story is told by Aaliyah Kominami, who aspires to be the best maid ever but who often fails because of her clumsiness and her inability to think on her feet. She has several crises at the café, involving belligerent coworkers, an overly amorous waiter, and Masters and Mistresses whose problems cannot be easily solved. American readers may wonder how satisfying this job could be if maids are expected always to be pleasant, subservient, and smiling. But then again we don't live in Japan, where maid cafés are as popular as Starbucks here. Manga enthusiasts and other otaku (extreme nerds/fanatics) will be delighted with the deep immersion in Japanese culture that this book provides.—Andrea Lipinski, New York Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Octavian, the 16-year-old slave whose story began in The Pox Party (Candlewick, 2006), continues his search for identity in this brilliant, affecting, and philosophical sequel. Octavian and his tutor escape from Octavian's master to relative safety in Boston where Octavian finds work as a violinist in a military band. After hearing of Lord Dunmore's promise of freedom for slaves, he enlists in the Royal Ethiopian Regiment. Following a loss at Norfolk, they then take up quarters aboard British ships, barely fending off starvation and smallpox. Octavian's uncertainty and doubt are tangible throughout. His detailed first-person narration is written in the richly expansive 18th-century prose introduced in volume one. He records the story while reviewing (and revealing to readers) his diary entries from the past year, so that "none of this shall pass from remembrance." He endures abuse, shame, grief, and humiliation, and comes close to despair; however, he is ultimately hopeful that humanity can aspire to more than warring and despoiling. Teens will identify with Octavian's internal tumult, how he experiences events as being acted upon him, and his transition from observer to participant, from boy to man. More than fascinating historical fiction, this is also a thoughtful and timeless examination of the nature of humanity and a critique of how society addresses (or ignores) identity, freedom, and oppression. Anderson's masterful pacing, surprising use of imagery and symbolism, and adeptness at crafting structure make this a powerful reimagining of slavery and the American Revolution dazzle.—Amy J. Chow, The Brearley School, New York City

Gr 4–7—Twelve-year-old March Anne expects this summer to be like all others—spending time with her girlfriends, helping on the family's Georgia watermelon farm, and learning from her grandma, who has been raising March Anne and her brother since their mother died nine years ago. But in July, the girl's world is turned upside down when Grenna suffers a heart attack and is bedridden. March Anne valiantly tries to cook the dinners, but her misadventures only serve to highlight the void that her grandmother's absence will leave. Things gradually settle down, and March Anne regales Grenna with stories about school, especially the antics of three previously irritating boys. When Grenna insists that a hummingbird has stayed for the winter, March Anne assumes her grandmother is "wonky," but the creature soon makes itself known, remaining nearby until the February day when Grenna passes on. Afterward, March Anne must come to terms with her grief not only for her grandmother, but also for her mother. Her friends are there to help, and her family draws closer as her father opens up about his repressed heartache over his wife. While the vocabulary is poetic, the Southern idioms and clichés are exaggerated, and March Anne's first-person narration never entirely engages readers. The tone is somewhat saccharine and preachy, and the themes are presented with a heavy hand. An additional novel about friendship and loss.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 7–10—Summer Smith is thrilled to be asked to spend the summer in Florida with her aunt Mallory and cousin Diana, and her trip starts off with a real bang when she meets gorgeous Seth on the plane and ends up with a dreamy kiss. It's pretty clear that Diana resents her presence and seems to be angry for no reason, but sensitive, nice Summer gives her the benefit of the doubt and forges ahead making new friends, getting a job, and meeting lots of handsome guys, including Diana's former boyfriend. If only the summer would never end and she didn't have to return to Minnesota. There are several references to sex and alcohol. This is an overly long and totally predictable teen romance, but girls will enjoy this beachy paperback and will pass it along to friends. It may be formulaic, but it works.—Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

Gr 4–6—"Why can't everyone just accept everyone else?" Alice Bunt asks her father when she discovers that popularity and individuality do not always go hand-in-hand. The 11-year-old has just moved to the Boston suburbs from the city and is looking forward to making friends with kids who share her interests. She soon finds Zen, a flamboyantly dressed, fashion-magazine-addicted boy who is definitely a far cry from sports-minded, go-kart-building Alice. When middle school begins, she quickly realizes that a friendship with him could lead to ridicule by classmates. The less-challenging path is to mirror the behavior of the mall-going in-crowd. Alice's dilemma is familiar—to conform or not to conform—with one key difference: Zen. Alice's journey from impressionable naïveté to courageous pluck is a convincing lesson on friendship and tolerance. The story line is a bit contrived, and many of the characters are not fully developed, but Alice's struggle to just be herself is an important one. The happy ending, though manufactured, will give hope to readers experiencing similar conflicts.—Erin Schirota, Bronxville Public Library, NY

Gr 4–7—Fourteen-year-old Early Whitcomb's family is trying desperately to hold onto their Iowa farm during hard times. The local banker is pressuring the Whitcombs to sell their land to the Chicago and North Western railway, promising to foreclose on their mortgage if they refuse. This prompts Early's Uncle Jesse, 19, to head west and find gold, disappearing under suspicion of bank robbery. After he writes that he has found gold but suspects that it will be stolen, Early sneaks away and signs on to a wagon train destined for Cherry Creek and Pike's Peak. A representative of the railroad is also traveling with the wagon trains, and the boy suspects that he wants to find Jesse and prevent him from helping his family save the farm. Early makes an unlikely ally in Lizzy Bunderly, the free-spirited daughter of his wagon-train employer, and the two friends face heartache, hardship, and loss while learning the value of endurance on this journey that takes them across the wild, unsettled territory. The novel deals with difficult times in the life of a young person, but emphasizes Early's optimism and hope for better days. The lessons he learns as a result of the choices he makes, as opposed to those made by his uncle, reveal the importance of making decisions wisely. The period reproductions add much to the understanding of an earlier way of life. The chapters are short and broken up into diary format so as to mimic travel journals of the early wagon train adventurers. A rewarding addition.—Debra Banna, Sharon Public Library, MA

Gr 6 Up—Set between Barron's "Lost Years of Merlin" and "Great Tree of Avalon" series, this book focuses on Basil, a unique lizard that sets out to understand his identity and his destiny. While small, Basil has a magical ability to create smells, and he uses his talent and his wits to escape a number of foes. After a series of encounters with the wizard Merlin, including attending his wedding, Basil learns from the good spirit Dagda that the evil spirit Rhita Gawr has entered the lands of Avalon and that Merlin is in grave danger. With the wind sister Aylah, he travels to all seven realms, learning about each one and about himself in his quest to save Merlin and all of Avalon from the magic-devouring kreelix. While this adventure starts out slowly and spans almost 40 years, the pace picks up rapidly during the second half. Basil is a prickly and entertaining hero, and his comments about life at the start of each chapter add tone and humor. Barron's return to Avalon will be welcomed by his many fans, who will have the patience to explore the lands with Basil and learn more about their history.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

Gr 7 Up—Natalie's mother left in mid-sentence. At least that is what Natalie remembers. Now four years, four months, and fifteen days later, the 16-year-old is traveling on a bus from Connecticut to Florida to ask her mother exactly what she had meant to say. The teen remembers that it was something about love, and, in her present predicament, she really needs to know. She is in a one-sided obsessive relationship with Adam, with whom she experiences her "ultimate passage into womanhood"; she has alienated her best friend; and her father thinks that she has gone skiing in Vermont. During the trip, Natalie encounters a variety of people with whom she briefly interacts, but who leave an impression on her. Their stories are inserted into the narrative as cameos, and she comes to understand that she can be loved for who she is—and not because she was a girl whose mother did not love her enough to stay. A moving coming-of-age story.—Sharon Morrison, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Durant, OK

Gr 6–8—Quintessential good-kid Milton Fauster knows all about his sister Marlo's life of petty crime. So, when they are both killed in a freak marshmallow explosion, he isn't surprised that she doesn't qualify for Heaven, but he's shocked to find that he isn't going there either. They end up in Heck, an unearthly reform school that isn't quite Hell, but certainly not a place anyone would want to stay in "for all eternity—or until they turn 18, whichever comes first." Principal Bea "Elsa" Bubb figures that there is something irregular about Milton's soul contract and keeps a close eye on him. Milton, meanwhile, plans to escape. During a dreary class, he meets Virgil, who has a map of the Nine Circles of Heck. Unfortunately, the only way out is through the sewer pipes, literally "down the toilet." The torments of the darned are described in vivid and often grotesque detail. Errant toddlers nap in gingerbread coffins while Boogeypeople read them Edgar Allan Poe. Milton and company make two graphically described voyages through the underworld plumbing. There are numerous classical and historical allusions, many of which will sail over the heads of the intended audience. ("I have an ax to grind with you," snarls home-economics teacher Lizzie Borden, after giving the celery 40 whacks.) In the end, the clever, if somewhat disturbing premise is overwhelmed by slow pacing and relentless descriptions of garbage, sewage, and other heckishly unpleasant things.—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Gr 7–10—When readers last saw the unlikely duo of starry-eyed Sir Michael and his reluctant squire (and former thief) Fisk in The Last Knight (HarperCollins, 2007), the teens were headed toward Michael's home to face the music. Despite his father's instructions, the young man has refused to bring back a woman falsely accused of murder, and the punishment for this failure is harsh. Michael is declared "unredeemed" and tattooed with marks that will declare his newly despised status to any that see his wrists. What's worse, Fisk has been called back home by his sisters to help them clear the name of a man he dislikes. Michael comes along but somebody has it in for the two, and it will take all of their wits to keep them out of either jail or a hangman's noose. In a story that's part buddy comedy, part Don Quixote, and part mystery novel, Bell outdoes herself with this intrepid pair. Michael's insistence that he is a knight, an occupation that is "two centuries out of date," has waned and now it is Fisk taking center stage. The story line moves swiftly and without a stumble. Count on this book's humor, suspense, and plot twists to keep readers coming back for future installments.—Elizabeth Bird, New York Public Library

Gr 8 Up—In 1990s Tampa, a week after Johnny's 13th birthday, his father dies in a horrible auto accident, his mother shuts down, and the boy is left to cope for himself. While somehow managing to maintain his grades and pay the bills, he also takes up the goth lifestyle and begins drinking so heavily that by 16 he ends up in a hospital from an accidental overdose. After a stint in rehab where he first hears and falls in love with singer Debbie Harry, Johnny is shipped off to live with his paternal uncle in South Carolina. Bullies at Langley Prep taunt him because they think he is gay, but with his supportive new girlfriend, Maria, and understanding Uncle Sam, Johnny finally realizes that he has more than a fixation on the performer. He wants to sing and dress like her. Maria encourages him to enter a competition as Debbie Harry at a drag club in Atlanta, and his uncle reveals surprising details about his father. With such a problem-heavy novel, at times the book comes close to overpowering the real "problem"—Johnny's transvestism. Still, having a straight, cross-dressing protagonist is groundbreaking YA fiction.—Betty S. Evans, Missouri State University, Springfield

Gr 4–7—Katani, the Beacon Street Girl gifted with business savvy and fashion flair, is on her way to Jamaica. A distressing letter informs her that Great Aunt Faith must have surgery and needs Grandmother Ruby and Katani to assist with her famous Banana Bliss Bakery. Thrilled to visit and help out, Ruby and Katani are concerned about the news that another bakery is attempting to run Banana Bliss out of business. And so begins this lighthearted adventure. Always jotting down ideas for future business endeavors, Katani is completely taken with the local color of the island, as well as its lore. She immediately connects with cousins Olivia and Selvin, but remains in touch with the other Beacon Street Girls via snappy emails and snapshots, describing the events of her wonderful trip. A number of unusual situations, from raising goats to on-the-shore horseback rides to the introduction of a mysterious old woman and a lost heirloom, add interest. A lively introduction to Jamaica's rich history, culture, and lifestyle.—Andrea Tarr, Corona Public Library, CA

Gr 5–7—Travis, 13, is trying to adjust to his family's move from Salinas, CA, to a brand-new development. To him, his new home and neighborhood are like Camazotz, the planet from A Wrinkle in Time where everything is the same. His parents seem to work all the time to support their current lifestyle, leaving him on his own. An almost magnetic pull draws him back to his old neighborhood and his favorite place, the John Steinbeck Library, only to discover that it is in jeopardy of being closed. The focus of the novel changes as Travis becomes immersed in the campaign to save it. His friend, Hilario, becomes involved as well. The mysterious underpinnings of the story begin when Travis cycles by Steinbeck's house and sees a boy writing in the attic window. Steinbeck's stories haunt him, and he starts to see characters from them. The second half of the book is the most absorbing. When he, Hil, and an elderly author go into the hills of Corral de Tierra, they have magical experiences that bring them closer to Steinbeck's world. There are some convenient plot twists and stereotypical characters. The protagonist, however, is well drawn. This novel would have greatest appeal to readers familiar with Steinbeck's works.—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

Gr 7–10—In the words of his teacher, PJ is a lost soul. He drifts through his classes and he's the third wheel with his friends Billy and Henry. Brian Carson is an obnoxious jerk who bullies him. When PJ accidentally takes Mrs. Jordan's journal, he knows he should give it back. But maybe it holds the key to the problems in his life, like whether to trust the guys who want his help to blackmail Brian. While PJ and his friends register as realistic teenagers, and Mrs. Jordan and Coach Lockwood are believable educators, other characters are one-note. Too many issues are touched on within a structure that doesn't allow satisfactory resolution. While readers are meant to infer that reading the journal helps PJ understand Brian's actions, this connection is tenuous. The story unfolds easily in spite of the extra plot points, and Carvell's talent for characterization and setting are well displayed. Readers will probably finish this story to see how PJ gets out of these bad situations, yet might find themselves wondering what the main point is. An optional purchase.—Melissa Rabey, Frederick County Public Libraries, Frederick, MD

Gr 6–8—In this first installment in the series, half-elf, half-human Sebastian Darke sets out to follow in his dead father's footsteps. The problem is, his father was a jester and Sebastian isn't that funny. However, his flatulent, talking buffalope sidekick, Max, is. They set off to make their fortune at the court of King Septimus and meet the tough but extremely small Captain Cornelius along the way. The three heroes then rescue shallow but beautiful Princess Kerin, niece of King Septimus, from a group of Brigands (from Brigandia). When they finally arrive at court, they discover that they have foiled an attempt on the princess's life that was planned by their host, and they must not only save themselves, but also the princess. The story is well paced and quite funny. Lea's occasional full-page, black-and-white illustrations enhance the story. There is not time in the weeks in which the story unfolds for the maturity that occurs as Princess Kerin grows into her title, but it's really the relationships among Sebastian, Cornelius, and Max that make the story flow so well. While Caveney doesn't have Terry Pratchett's deft touch with humorous fantasy, this title will appeal to fans of The Wee Free Men (HarperCollins, 2003) and its sequels.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH

Gr 7 Up—Alicia's best friend, Bobby, has gone to New York to scout out colleges, and she realizes that sooner or later she is going to have to tell him that she wants more than just friendship. As she faces the possibility that he is leaving her behind, and is still dealing with her blindness, a new problem crops up. At one point Bobby became invisible, and now there is another invisible person named William stalking him. He follows Bobby home, FBI agents are dropping by, and Alicia wonders just what's going on. Does William just want to return to normal? Is the FBI trying to steal the technology to turn people invisible? Or is William the real threat? Alicia's internal monologues are long, repetitive, and stilted. The plot gathers steam near the end, but Alicia's constant angst over Bobby detracts from it. Their relationship does not seem to have grown any deeper at the end of the book other than the fact that they have kissed. The language and writing seem a little too simple for the YA crowd, but fans of Things Not Seen (2002) and Things Hoped For (2006, both Philomel) might enjoy this installment in the series.—Jennifer-Lynn Draper, Children's Literature Consultant, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Gr 8 Up—This tale has likable and realistic teen characters. It takes place over an event-filled week, with Rhiannon, Nicole, and James telling the same story from their individual perspectives. Rhiannon is devastated by her recent breakup with Steve. Nicole has broken up with Danny for no apparent reason, and he is determined to win her back. James, who has always been Rhiannon's best friend, is finding his feelings for her undergoing a dramatic change. Many humorous events occur, including Rhiannon's surefire plan to get Steve back that backfires. Readers will be intrigued by how the same incidents can be seen in so many different lights. They may also gain perspective on how one action can have very different consequences for people. The story also addresses several difficult and all-too-common problems that many teens face. Nicole realizes that Sheila is being physically abused by her boyfriend and is able to get her some professional help. Nicole has her own dark secret—her father is sexually abusing her. It's through her interactions with her friends that she is finally able to acknowledge the abuse and start to get on with her life. Teens who are dealing with their own problems will benefit from the hopeful resolution of this story. While this book's main appeal will be with girls, guys will enjoy hearing the male perspective.—Sheilah Kosco, Bastrop Public Library, TX

Gr 5–7—In this Depression-era tale set near St. Louis, Gene receives visits from some sort of specter, as if he is temporarily possessed by a presence that speaks to him in vague threats and riddles. When he learns that the death of his pal Sonny's father was preceded by a voice urging him to kill himself, Gene assumes that his specter is the same ominous being. This spirit urges him to solve a mystery many years old with little in the way of concrete clues. Gene gains the help of Sam, daughter of the local paper's editor, and the two find stories about the purchase of the old Toffey farm by oil speculator-con man, Ernest Gallen. Gene learns that the spirit of the con man wants revenge on the lynch mob that killed him as well as on Gene's grandfather, the judge who sent him to a low-security cell. The novel features mostly flat characterization and dialogue that subdue any real tension. Even the spookiest episode, in which the three kids explore the Toffey farmhouse and find a noose with a dressed skeleton on the floor, doesn't create an eerie atmosphere, and the story has several lapses in logic.—Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA

Gr 9 Up—This novel follows a clique of high-class Old Blood vampires, led by heiress Lilith Todd, who attend a private New York City high school, and their run-in with a strange New Blood girl, Cally, in the park. It turns out to be an ambush by the Van Helsings, vampire hunters, and it leaves one of the Old Bloods dead and the others fleeing for their lives. Peter Van Helsing cannot bring himself to harm Cally, and they begin a forbidden relationship. It turns out that she has a human mother and an Old Blood vampire father whom she has never met. He sends her off to Bathory Academy—where, you guessed it, Lilith and her cronies are not at all happy to see her. Lilith already wants to rip Cally apart, but actually attacks her after she sees her promised husband flirt with the newcomer. This is a light read with some intrigue. It is clearly the set-up for a series. A glossary explaining the origins and terminology of vampire mythology is included.—Corinda J. Humphrey, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 7 Up—In a not-too-distant future, the United States of America has collapsed, weakened by drought, fire, famine, and war, to be replaced by Panem, a country divided into the Capitol and 12 districts. Each year, two young representatives from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, part brutal intimidation of the subjugated districts, the televised games are broadcasted throughout Panem as the 24 participants are forced to eliminate their competitors, literally, with all citizens required to watch. When 16-year-old Katniss's young sister, Prim, is selected as the mining district's female representative, Katniss volunteers to take her place. She and her male counterpart, Peeta, the son of the town baker who seems to have all the fighting skills of a lump of bread dough, will be pitted against bigger, stronger representatives who have trained for this their whole lives. Collins's characters are completely realistic and sympathetic as they form alliances and friendships in the face of overwhelming odds; the plot is tense, dramatic, and engrossing. This book will definitely resonate with the generation raised on reality shows like "Survivor" and "American Gladiator." Book one of a planned trilogy.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK

Gr 6–8—A delicious collection of nine funny, frightening, and thoughtful short stories. Coville has a true gift for creating characters and setting, such as the creepy pond at her Auntie Alma's that Margaret is mysteriously drawn to, or the haunted mansion where young ghost communicators Nine and Chris find themselves stranded on a stormy evening. There is something for most readers—a bit of fantasy, a smattering of humorous reality, a dose of science fiction, and a dash of mystery. An author's note explains the origins of the stories. Teens are sure to find the author's insights entertaining and will certainly gobble up these eerie tales.—Shari Fesko, Southfield Public Library, MI

Gr 7 Up—When high school sophomore Liam is called up to play varsity basketball, he finds the team in some distress. Darius, the only black member and the leading offensive player, quits during the half-time of Liam's first game, feeling dissed by the coach. Liam then attends an invitation-only Athletic Fellowship meeting at a teammate's house, where he is manipulated into joining in the reading of a "Champion's Prayer," strengthening his doubts about the amount and kind of prayer that the coach directs at every pregame and half-time. The teen is secure in his Catholic faith, but fears he'll lose playing time, at least, if he rocks the coach's boat. Using the Internet to investigate and then press the separation of church and state, he indeed suffers the wrath of his coach, administration, and former teammates, so that he, too, quits the team. He and Darius are recruited to toughen up the varsity girls' team as they make their run at State. Coached by the art teacher who runs practices akin to a yoga workout and assigns poetry as well as scrimmages is a welcome change for Liam, who makes serious strides both on and off the court. The message that one must choose one's own road is certainly worthy, and the combination of basketball action, Liam's thoughtful responses to off-court issues, and the involvement—and final game—between the boys and girls will appeal to many hoops fans.—Joel Shoemaker, Southeast Junior High School, Iowa City, IA

Gr 5–9—Gatty, the irrepressible peasant girl first introduced in Crossley-Holland's "Arthur" trilogy (Scholastic), comes into her own in this sweeping, vibrant story set in the early years of the 13th century. Her pure singing voice helps her secure a position as serving maid to Lady Gwyneth of Ewloe Manor, and she joins a disparate band of souls when her lady declares her intent to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Gatty is a headstrong adolescent whose impulsive behavior both exasperates and delights the other pilgrims on the journey, causing delays and difficulties but also, in one instance, saving a life. Written in a style that is both lyrical and earthy, this book serves as a companion novel to the "Arthur" books but stands solidly on its own as a completely satisfying coming-of-age story. Similar in tone to Karen Cushman's Catherine, Called Birdy (Clarion, 1994) and rich in detail like Frances Temple's epic journey tale, The Ramsay Scallop (Scholastic, 1994), Crossing to Paradise gives today's readers a glimpse into the turbulent years of the Crusades—events that sowed so many seeds for the current Middle East conflicts—through the eyes of a girl who wears her heart on her sleeve.—Connie C. Rockman, Stratford Library Association, CT

Gr 9 Up—No matter where he lives, 16-year-old Danny Lopez is an outsider. At his private high school in wealthy northern San Diego County, "nobody paid him any attention…because he was Mexican." It didn't matter that he was half white. But when he visits the Mexican side of his family in National City, just a dozen miles from the border, Danny feels "Albino almost" and ashamed. He doesn't even speak Spanish. Rather than learning to blend in, Danny disengages from both worlds, rarely speaking and running his mind in circles with questions about how he might have kept his absent father from leaving the family. He decides to spend the summer in National City, hoping to get closer to his dad's roots and learn how to be "real" and stop feeling numb. Instead, he finds that, by the end of the summer, he has filled the void through unexpected friendship and love. In this first-rate exploration of self-identity, Danny's growth as a baseball pitcher becomes a metaphor for the conflicts he must overcome due to his biracial heritage. Dialogue written in a coarse street vernacular and interwoven with Spanish is awkward to read at first—like Danny, readers are made to feel like outsiders among the hard-edged kids of National City. But as the characters develop, their language starts to feel familiar and warm, and their subtle tenderness becomes more apparent. A mostly linear plot (with occasional flashbacks), plenty of sports action, and short chapters make this book a great pick for reluctant or less-experienced readers.—Madeline Walton-Hadlock, San Jose Public Library, CA

Gr 8 Up—Frustrated by her parents' divorce two years earlier, 15-year-old Victoria convinces her mother to let her travel from Connecticut to stay in New York with her father for the summer. She witnesses a teen speaking harshly to her toddler son and sees her leave him in the train's bathroom. Victoria watches as the young woman and a man argue on the platform. Before she knows it, Victoria has the toddler in her possession and is barreling past her stop. She begins with the best of intentions to protect the child from an abusive situation, but, without much thought, she takes the boy, whom she calls Wills, on a train ride to Georgia. Victoria finds a large stash of money, hastily stuffed in her backpack by the boy's mother, and begins to receive threatening calls on her cell phone from the man on the platform and worried calls from her father and various police agencies. Victoria must find a way for Wills to be safe and believes that staying on the lam is the best solution. DeKeyser accurately describes the thought process that Victoria goes through as she comes to the realization of what she's done. While at the heart of her choices is her anger over her parents' divorce, the author does not oversimplify the situation. Teens are sure to find this an interesting read.—Sarah Krygier, Solano County Library, Fairfield, CA

Gr 6–10—In this sequel to Powder Monkey (2005) and Prison Ship (2006, both Bloomsbury), Sam and his friend Richard have a rocky voyage from Australia back to England on a merchant ship. Meanwhile England is at war with France, and the British navy is sending out press gangs to "recruit" sailors. When Sam is in London, he barely escapes a gang and decides to accept Viscount Neville's offer to purchase him a post in the navy as an officer. He is on the same ship as Admiral Lord Nelson and fights with him in the legendary Battle of Trafalgar. Sam's sailing story starts slowly, taking several chapters for the wind to come into the plot sails. Even then, it feels more like a choppy travelogue than an adventure story. One can only wish that Sam mused less about what he should and should not do. Dowswell, however, does give a wealth of historical detail about 19th-century sailing without detracting too much from the plot. The author is at his best describing the Battle of Trafalgar and the funeral of Admiral Lord Nelson, which he based on eyewitness accounts. Fans of the series will be interested in this new segment of Sam's life, and teens interested in sailing stories may be willing to swim through it as well.—Samantha Larsen Hastings, West Jordan Public Library, UT

Gr 4–7—Born on a slave ship, Calepino is an orphan in 17th-century Cartagena. He has been raised by a Spanish noblewoman and acts as a translator for Father Pedro, who takes food, water, and medicine to the captives on the slave ships that dock in the area. On one visit he meets Tomi and his pregnant mother. They are sold to a cruel merchant, and Calepino is determined to help them escape. He has been helping Dr. López, who cares for the patients at the leper colony, and he uses his contact with the doctor to get them away from their brutal master. Then Dr. López is accused of being a Jew and imprisoned. It is, after all, the time of the Spanish Inquisition. The novel ends when readers discover that Calepino has been writing this story for him while he's in prison. Durango tells of the horrors of the slave trade by bringing it down to a more personal level. It's an involving story, but some confusion could result without background knowledge of the Inquisition or the social stigma of contracting leprosy at that time.—Diana Pierce, Leander High School, TX

Gr 4–6—Like a television show that loses steam in its second season, Durst's sequel to Into the Wild (Penguin, 2007) seems less fresh and therefore not as much fun as the original. Once again, 12-year-old Julie struggles to control the fairy-tale world imprisoned under her bed. Most of her family has escaped the nightmarish, repetitive life of fairy tales and are happy to try to exist in the real world, but when The Wild spits her father out, his unfamiliarity with life outside jeopardizes the future of the world. He's Rapunzel's prince and only knows about rescuing princesses, so Julie must protect him as she tries to attend to her friendships and a budding romance. Even readers who relished the first book will probably find this one stale.—Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Gr 6 Up—Ethereal, sepia-toned photos meld with folklore elements to create an evocative glimpse at the indiscernible boundary between reality and fantasy. In journal format, photographer David Ellwand employs descriptive text and eerily beautiful images to describe his rambles in the English Downs and his discovery of an ancient flint stone. Looking through the hole worn into this "devil eye," he sees a ball of light and follows it to a tumbledown house, where he finds an antique chest containing some unusual relics and an old phonograph recording. Part Two, also illustrated with photos, presents the transcript of this recording made in 1889 by Isaac Wilde, a photographer hired by Dr. Gibson Gayle to document the excavation of a Neolithic flint mine. Though the site is rumored to be haunted by fairies, the arrogant archaeologist intends to quell all superstition through "the faithful transcription of objective reality." The strange events that transpire at Pixhole evoke mystery and suspense, as the "world of reason" collides with "the hidden life of the natural world." Throughout, verbal and visual images are perfectly intertwined to create a magic-infused mood and propel the plot. Whether landscape pictures of gnarled tree roots or close-ups of "artifacts" (e.g., a delicate suit of armor made from oyster and mussel shells), the photos are effective and eye-catching. This intriguing, perhaps slightly unsettling tale can inspire discussion about perception and different ways of seeing.—Joy Fleishhacker, School Library Journal

Gr 5–7—Though he experiences typical middle school troubles—being bullied, fighting with his older brother Bane, thinking his parents don't understand him, and feeling like a misfit—Oliver is a vampire. Like others his age, he still consumes only animal blood, but Bane, who has recently bonded with his otherworldly demon to become an adult vampire, now enjoys human blood. Despite the ironclad prohibition against associating with mortals, Oliver is attracted to the daylight world and fascinated by Emalie, a human girl who has been exploring the ruins above his family's crypt home. He soon learns that she suspects the existence of vampires and intends to write an exposé—something the highly secretive undead want to avoid. Oliver agrees to help her, even guiding Emalie and her cousin into the hidden subsurface city to consult Dead Désirée, the weird keeper of secrets and powers that even vampires fear. He soon realizes that there is something mysterious about his background, and that danger threatens not only his human friends, but also himself. This volume devotes considerable space to background exposition about the vampire meta-world. While the pacing is slow in spots, the details help to fully realize the idea of parallel human and undead worlds, and the cliff-hanger ending promises more excitement.—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

Gr 4–6—In the blistering heat of summer 1961, during the phase of a new moon, Janine and her family are visited by a strange skinny man who emerges from a cornfield on their lonely Texas farm. Janine's father recognizes him as the man who saved his life during World War II, and invites him to stay in spite of the fact that he's out of work and the family is struggling to make ends meet. More than anything Janine's younger brother, Ricky, wants to build a go-cart, but he suffers from a debilitating illness that makes Mama overprotective and keeps the children inside more often than not. Hot and bored, they are fascinated by Mr. Lunas, who, as his name suggests, changes shape with the phases of the moon. As the moon wanes, Ricky grows sicker and the money grows tighter until Mama's nerves reach the breaking point. The situation suddenly seems beyond repair, until Mr. Lunas gives Janine the vision to make Ricky's last wish come true. This well-constructed novel satisfies on many levels, with wonderful dialogue, a vividness of place, and memorable characters that allow even the magical elements to ring true. While the story is Janine's, each member of the family is well drawn, particularly Mama, whose worry and strain become understandably palpable with her son's worsening condition. Mr. Lunas wanders through the book like a mysterious moonlit spirit, offering mild counsel and encouragement to those who will listen. Still, Janine is the focal point as she struggles to find her place and purpose in a family with too many other things on their minds. A worthwhile read with a satisfying conclusion that will be long remembered.—Teri Markson, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 5–8—This sequel to The Birchbark House (Hyperion, 1999) and The Game of Silence (HarperCollins, 2005) continues the story of Omakayas, an Ojibwe girl who in 1852 is now 12 winters old. She and her family have been displaced by the United States government and are looking for a new place to live. When Omakayas and her younger brother become separated from their family during a night hunting expedition, Pinch has a run-in with a porcupine that he decides to keep as his medicine animal. The little gaag does indeed seem to bring them good fortune for a time, and Pinch is thereafter known as Quill. As Omakayas's extended family travels north toward Lac du Bois, where Mama's sister has settled, Erdrich's resonant descriptions of their day-to-day experiences give the narrative a graceful flow. The peaceful rhythms are all too quickly broken, however, when a party of Bwaanag captures two of their men. Soon after, Auntie Muskrat's no-good husband, Albert LaPautre, leads a raid on the small group, making off with all of their provisions, leaving them destitute as the winter months approach. The family finally reaches the big lake, and as they learn to find their places in the larger group, Omakayas must come to terms with her transition to womanhood. The events in this installment will both delight and appall readers. While the novel can stand alone, it will call new readers to catch up on the first two installments. Erdrich's charming pencil drawings interspersed throughout and her glossary of Ojibwe terms round out a beautiful offering.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 9 Up—While taking pictures in Nashville's Dragon Park, 16-year-old Vaughn Vance meets Sophie Birch, small, lithe, and bad-girl pretty. Sophie hangs with Vaughn to escape her depressing home life with a single mom who is housework challenged. This odd couple become fast friends and Sophie becomes Vaughn's muse. After her mom moves away, she accepts an invitation to move in with Vaughn and her caring parents. The teens remain friends until Vaughn makes the mistake of kissing Sophie's ex-boyfriend, the breakup too new for Vaughn's indiscretion to be seen as anything short of serious disloyalty. The rest of the book is essentially Vaughn consumed with whether Sophie will ever be her friend again, an obsession that flirts with homosexuality at one point. References to pop culture are current but are at times forced attempts to relate to the teen audience, with such adjectives as "gimungus" and "pube-curl" and a drink made from fruit punch and vodka called "Sex on the Rag." The novel loses whatever momentum it had as the characters start school and Vaughn uses photography and the peace of the darkroom to forget about Sophie. The author goes into depth about the process of bringing photos from the shutter to the exhibit, but it is not enough to keep readers' interest.—Stephanie Glass Shteirman, High School in the Community, New Haven, CT

Gr 9 Up—Ozzie Eaton, an exchange student from Australia, introduces the rugby style of play to a Texas high school football team and helps to turn their season around. American readers may be put off by the unfamiliar terms used in the opening chapters set in Australia, and their elders may be equally put off by the casual attitude displayed toward teenage drinking. The author's credibility with knowledgeable fans of American football will be compromised by his gaffe-ridden descriptions of the sport—he has a young Texan referring to football players as "footballers," he attributes a quarterback sack to a collapse of the defensive line, and he invents a scoring play called the "penalty fieldgoal." The book's naive, superficial, and almost unrelentingly negative portrayal of American culture is merely annoying; patently offensive is a scene in which an American girl, speaking of a corrupt Mexican policeman, says, "You can see why us Americans have no sympathy for countries like that. They deserve everything they damn well get." There are many fine books written from a foreigner's perspective that help to illuminate the American experience. This is not one of them.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT

Gr 5–8—Somewhere in the U.S., in a small farming community called Lowland County, a girl named Piper McCloud is born to a simple, God-fearing farmer and his wife. Piper has a special talent: she can fly. What follows is an uneasy mix of fantasy and science fiction that has plot points that are fairly derivative. When her talent for flying is discovered, a charismatic director of a special school takes Piper under her wing. She arrives at an amazing place with multiple floors and discovers a lot of other kids with extraordinary powers, too—as well as a nefarious plot to remove their special talents by altering their DNA. Character development is achieved by the author telling, not showing, readers, and speech patterns are not always successful. Piper's rural, colloquial manner of speech seems out of place in a time period that appears to be present day and borders on caricature, especially when she utters phrases such as, "Well, butter my butt and call me a biscuit!" The writing style is clunky, and the author strives to be clever with wordplay. For example, the evil director of the school is named Dr. Letitia Hellion, and the German professor, whose accent is almost unintelligible, is named Dr. Mumbley. The acronym for the school, or institute, is I.N.S.A.N.E. (Institute of Normalcy, Stability, and NonExceptionality). The book ends with the kids taking over the school, and the affirmation of everyone's differences, and everyone's right to "be themselves." Libraries looking for engaging fantasy will want to look elsewhere.—Jennifer Ralston, Harford County Public Library, Belcamp, MD

Gr 5–9—Fusilli combines his knowledge of music, love of New York City, and respect and ear for precocious teenagers into a fast-paced mystery. Marley Zimmerman, 14, is jolted from a daydream in her boring math class when she and her friend Marisol are summoned to the vice principal's office. Marisol is accused of stealing a rare violin from a Juilliard display. Even though the theft is caught on videotape, Marisol denies all knowledge of it, and Marley is convinced that her friend, a talented violinist, would never take such a rare instrument. Soon Marley and her friends, members of a new and mostly unrehearsed band called the Kingston Cowboys, are on the case. The teens move across a New York City backdrop that incorporates locales such as the Zimmermans' brownstone, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Central Park, hunting clues and gathering suspects. Unshakable in her conviction of Marisol's innocence, intrepid Marley employs all of her abilities and resources to save her friend. Marley is a fully drawn character, and the supporting cast members are developed well enough to make them compelling and interesting. This mystery keeps pages turning to its surprise ending.—Kathryn Kosiorek, formerly at Cuyahoga County Public Library, Brooklyn, OH

Gr 8 Up—Despite his intimidating build, 14-year-old Ray is a tongue-tied, sensitive street kid with a penchant for reading anything and everything, from Scientific American to Siddhartha. After a stint in juvie, he and his best pal, reckless and charming José, are "on their own and on the run." The teens squat in an old railway stationhouse by Ten Mile River in a wooded area of New York City, stealing what they need to survive and pulling small jobs for extra cash. When they befriend a girl and her hairdresser aunt, they have the chance to make a clean living, but their choices are complicated by their loyalty to one another. Like the works of Adam Rapp and K. L. Going, Griffin's novel is introspective street lit, an illumination of petty crime and parentless childhoods that's more gritty than glamorous. The realistic dialogue, which is often quite graphic and filled with sexual innuendo, propels the plot, and the author specializes in capturing the vernacular: "Psh, I'd go behind m' boy's back like that? Psh, insultin me, man." The boys come to life on the pages, as does their relationship, and their conversations are often laugh-out-loud funny. Though the threat of violence looms through most of the book, the author doesn't quite evoke the shock or fear he's going for. Still, the plot defies predictions, and some memorable scenes and the strongly drawn characters lift the story above other urban tales of woe. Fans of Paul Volponi, take note.—Emily R. Brown, Providence Public Library, RI

Gr 4–6—Fifth-grader Trip Dinkleman gets roped into helping set up the school's book fair, a loathsome task for a boy who hates to read. While attempting to move a particularly heavy crate, he loses control and a number of volumes come crashing down on his head, knocking him out cold. Trip then finds himself in various implausible scenarios—from playing in the Super Bowl to landing on the moon. He wonders if he will ever return to reality or be stuck as a book character forever. Each chapter represents a new genre. The result is a mixed bag of humorous scenarios and underdeveloped story lines. Gutman succeeds when he delves into historical fiction and humor, but falters when attempting to mimic the styles of science fiction, horror, and "girl fiction." The novel is not helped along by an undeveloped main character whose odd actions make him hard to root for, and the transitions between the chapters confuse readers. The ending comes suddenly, and they are left wondering how the events even came to pass. This one is only for die-hard Gutman fans.—Beth Cuddy, Seward Elementary School, Auburn, NY

Gr 5–8—This book is just as delightful as Samuel Blink and the Forbidden Forest (Putnam, 2007). It continues the story of Samuel and Martha, along with their Norwegian aunt and uncle and the trolls who live in the neighboring forest. The siblings are starting school, which is not an easy thing when you only speak English. Samuel has enough problems without the arrival of Troll-Son, who is hiding from the Betterer, an adult troll who uses various torture techniques to make the trolls more human. Meanwhile, Martha is becoming friendly with Cornelia, who has motives other than friendship for spending time with her. When the worlds of the trolls and the humans fully connect, there is no guessing what will happen. Enthusiastically portrayed with all of their quirks, the characters are engaging. Fast pacing adds to the readability of the book, and the combination of fantasy and broad humor is very well done.—Tasha Saecker, Menasha Public Library, WI

Gr 6–9—Soli, nicknamed "Shifty" for his ability to talk his way out of problems, has had a hard life filled with transition homes and foster families. He's happy to have landed at Martha's house with seven-year-old Sissy and baby Chance. However, while the woman genuinely cares about her foster children, she neglects simple tasks like buying food and relies on Soli to run errands and look after Sissy. Though he's only 15, Soli has shown Martha a fake learner's permit, so she allows him to drive her van; he occasionally uses it without her knowledge, leading to run-ins with police and a near towing. When Martha is unexpectedly hospitalized overnight, Soli is left in charge. Sissy's friend Darlene insists on coming over, which leads to a web of lies and trouble from Darlene's parents. Soli must also deal with the new social worker, who is looking to cite Martha on any infraction. Thinking on his feet, he manages to save her from getting into trouble. Though they must say goodbye to Chance, who is going to a permanent home, Martha is determined to get her act together and adopt Soli and Sissy. The novel's San Francisco setting is clearly delineated, but the ending is too clean, with hardly any consequences for Soli's or Martha's actions, a seemingly unrealistic outcome. Still, the characters have warmth, and readers will feel empathy for this makeshift family.—Nichole King, Morgan Hill Library, CA

Gr 8 Up—Robby Fielder is a varsity soccer cocaptain and decent student, but his parents continue to compare him to his football-star older brother and find him lacking. When he and his best friend share a few beers, it doesn't seem like a big deal, but then Jim continues drinking and totals his car, causing his parents to pull him from the team, where his goalie skills are sorely missed. Meanwhile, Robby is attracted to Pet, whose bleached hair, nose ring, and outspokenness make her an object of derision among their classmates. She opens up to him, revealing a dark secret about her past, and he admires her honesty and longs to keep her trust. Robby's teammates begin to question his commitment to the squad, and, indeed, as his relationship with Pet develops, it seems that the team's cohesiveness unravels. Robby is forced to make decisions about where his loyalty really lies: putting the team first will help him to realize his dream of a soccer scholarship, but at what price? Hazuka's first young adult novel realistically depicts one teen's struggle to prepare for the future without compromising the present. There are enough plot twists to keep readers guessing, and soccer fans will appreciate the author's obvious love of the game. While adult figures are fairly two dimensional—the wise teacher, the win-at-all-costs coach—the dialogue and interactions among the teens are spot-on. A solid choice where Chris Crutcher and Mike Lupica have a strong following.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 6–9—In 1903, school lets out for summer vacation, and Joseph Michtom dreams of visiting Coney Island. But the 14-year-old's plans have to be placed on hold while he helps out in his father's toy-making business. The family stumbles on an idea that leads to the creation of the first teddy bear and achieves financial success. Set in Brooklyn and narrated by Joseph, the novel portrays the joys and heartaches in the lives of Russian-Jewish immigrants at the turn of the 20th century. Alternating with this story line is a parallel narrative devoted to abandoned children who forge a life for themselves under the shelter of the Brooklyn Bridge. Readers will have a hard time putting down this compelling story.—Caryl Soriano, New York Public Library

Gr 3–6—Heyman and Rodríguez, who paired their talents for The Big Book of Horror (Sterling, 2006), have produced another winner with this collection of classic adventure stories. The selections, which span the 18th and 19th centuries, have been expertly abridged and adapted for modern children. Some of the stories may be familiar, such as Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island and Herman Melville's Moby-Dick, but children are also introduced to Emilio Salgari's Sandokan and Oscar Wilde's The Canterville Ghost, as well as seven others. Rodríguez's stylized cartoons will entice children. The text is often placed on top of the artwork in such a way that infuses it, as when molten lava flows under a passage from Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth. Each story is prefaced by a brief biography of the author, focusing on those dramatic tidbits that made these men as colorful as the characters they created. A good choice for some old-fashioned thrills.—Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ

Gr 9 Up—The year is 1892, and Tess and Tobias Goodraven are not your typical newly married couple. Avid musicians, they are also 17-year-old ghost hunters, possessing a special talent that enables them to feel the presence of spirits and communicate with them. On a mission to put to rest the spirit of Mary Dutton, a victim of the Salem witch trials, the ghost reveals to them that there is evil associated with the trials that needs to be dealt with. They learn that three "witches" escaped and fled to nearby Blackthorne where they were caught and executed, and they board a train bound to a winter ice festival there. When it derails, killing many passengers, the Goodravens realize that they are in grave danger. Hightman's dark and intricate story is full of plot twists and turns in which the dead stalk the living. It will leave readers dazed, disturbed, and, like any true ghost story, full of terror that keeps them on the edge of their seats.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

Gr 3–6—Told through letters written between Annabelle and her great grandmother, this novel touches on issues of friendship and getting to know one's family. At first, Annabelle writes to Gran because her father wants her to learn how to use her computer and improve her typing. It is clear from the beginning that the two are not very familiar with one another, and at times don't understand each other's lifestyles. Initially, Annabelle comes off as rude, telling her grandmother, "I wish you'd make an effort" and "maybe you couldn't care less." Gran, on the other hand, does not understand Annabelle sometimes either, such as why she would want to go see Titanic on a sunny day. Originally published in France in 1999, the novel seems dated. Additionally, the title will most likely lead readers to think of email, and Annabelle is actually mailing her letters. There are also subjects that she studies in school that American students will not recognize. A notes section explains certain terms, but unfortunately they're at the back of the book. As the letters progress, a true and tender friendship between Annabelle and Gran develops, and readers become involved in their stories.—Sarah O'Holla, Village Community School, New York City

Gr 9 Up—In this addition to the popular series, 17-year-old Nick discovers that he has the power to travel between his home in contemporary London and 16th-century Talia, a country in which some magic and sorcery is possible. In his own time, Nick struggles with dyslexia and is insecure about his relationship with popular, beautiful Ayesha. In Talia, he reads effortlessly and is apprenticed to a printmaker in the city-state of Padavia, where he befriends Luciano, a teenager from his own time and the protagonist in the first book in the series, Stravaganza: City of Masks (Bloomsbury, 2002). Together, the two young men and Luciano's betrothed must find a way to stop a plot by the powerful de Chimici family to take over Talia. Secrets stands on its own, though teen fantasy and history buffs will likely clamor for the first three books in this wonderful series. The author's richly detailed, fully imagined world of Talia comes alive for her characters who "stravagate" there, and for readers as well. The action moves seamlessly from present to past as Nick struggles to maintain a balance between the two worlds while becoming stronger and more secure in both.—Leah J. Sparks, formerly at Bowie Public Library, MD

Gr 4–6—This dark, sinister tale, which reads like a cross between Lemony Snicket's books (HarperCollins) and R. L. Stine's "Goosebumps" series (Scholastic), involves maniacal parents, supernatural monsters, and some difficult choices for its characters. David Eliot's parents make the Dursleys from "Harry Potter" seem like a loving family. Not only are they mentally abusive, but they are also horrifyingly physically abusive (Mr. Eliot throws a knife at David and is nonplussed when it ends up in his wife's chest instead). After David is expelled from school, a mysterious letter arrives, offering him a place at a boarding school located on its own island off Norfolk, England. On the train trip to Groosham Grange, David meets a boy and girl who have also been sent away for not measuring up to standards. Once they arrive, they discover strange, otherworldly teachers and students who behave in a secretive manner, rising from their beds at midnight and disappearing without a trace. David and his friends must discover the secret of Groosham Grange before their 13th birthdays, when they will be forced to make a difficult decision that will change their lives forever. Though the author portrays punishments and moments of cruelty as absurd and unrealistic, these instances may disturb some readers. Still, the mysteries, elements of witchcraft and the supernatural, and occasional instances of humor may appeal to fans of (mostly) bloodless horror.—Debra Banna, Sharon Public Library, MA

Gr 4–7—This is Horvath's most luminescent, beautifully written novel yet. Jane Fielding lives what seems to be an idyllic life with her poet mother and three younger siblings in a house on the beach in coastal Massachusetts, where they gather mussels, pick berries to eat, and lay in the warm tidal pools. But at 12, Jane no longer wants every summer to be exactly the same. She prays for adventures, 100 of them, and gets 14, each of which gives her insights into understanding herself. She delivers Bibles from a hijacked hot-air balloon, is tricked into babysitting for the five messy Gourd children, is fleeced by a fortune-teller, and meets several men who could be her father. Horvath's latest offering certainly has some eccentric, unforgettable characters and some dark humor and irony. Yet the author has significantly mellowed in this quieter work, which will have wider kid-appeal. Indeed, it is Jane's honest, clear voice—that of a young girl on the natural cusp of separating from her family—that drives the story and engages readers. The author is a gifted writer, a word alchemist. She has an eye for exposing the miraculous in the mundane. The book is filled with pithy observations and memorable passages that invite immediate rereading and admiration. This is Horvath at the top of her game, and that's saying something.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 7–10—It's not easy moving every few months, but after six years, there are some constants upon which 15-year-old Hannah can rely. The small-town cops will always uncover her father's past, the creditors will find them eventually, and the popular girls are always easy to spot. She knows the type: blond, pretty, athletic—the cheerleaders. Maplecrest is no different. They sit at a central table in the lunchroom, so alike they resemble clones. There is something almost inhuman about them, but that doesn't mean Hannah is willing to believe her new lunch-table friend, Lukas, when he says they're zombies. Nor is she willing to pass up the chance to join the cheerleading squad when asked, even as classmates are disappearing and the number of empty houses in town increases. James has created a believable novel about starting over, making friends, bullying, and ostracism, while adding a dash of the supernatural. However, with every part of the book screaming that the cheerleaders are, in fact, zombies, Hannah's continued refusal to see the truth becomes unbelievable. One almost begins to hope that they aren't zombies, and that Lukas is just a crazy kid making Hannah's adjustment that much harder. Though not really suspenseful, readers will still give a rousing cheer to James's take on teenage issues.—Cara von Wrangel Kinsey, New York Public Library

Gr 10 Up—Stacie and Cole have been dating since ninth grade and are now 16 and thinking about having sex for the first time. This causes a conflict with Stacie's dad. Her sister was kicked out of the house when she became pregnant and their father is overprotective, especially since his wife left him. Cole's mom has a new boyfriend and Cole is angry that he hasn't seen his dad in three years. When he learns that his father is at the local homeless shelter, he finds him and encourages him to come back home. In the meantime, Cole and Stacie try to figure out their relationship, and Cole's previous girlfriend gets involved. These African-American teens must come to terms with making their own decisions and dealing with the consequences. This urban novel is written on an easy reading level for reluctant readers. The love-triangle plot is predictable but provides for a dramatic conclusion.—Corinda J. Humphrey, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 8 Up—Thirteen-year-old Jo Larouche lives quietly in the California desert with her adoptive Aunt Lily, an eccentric former film star, and longs for something exciting to happen. She gets her wish and then some when Lily's annual costume party is crashed by an elderly Russian colonel ruled by his digestive system and a giant talking cockroach with a flair for the dramatic. Soon Jo and Lily are swept up by the Order of Odd-Fish, a group of knights devoted to researching useless information, and taken to the fantastical world of Eldritch City, where Jo learns the truth about her birth and destiny. This debut novel has many of the trappings of popular young adult fantasy titles, including an exotic setting, a dangerous villain, and a coming-of-age quest. However, Kennedy's clever plot, rich and fully realized setting, and often witty dialogue cannot compete with his dense, ridiculous prose (e.g., "He could not even think about the Belgian Prankster for too long before he would feel his soul dwindle and teeter on the precipice of being blasted to nothing by the sheer demonic grandeur of the Belgian Prankster."). Very few teen fantasy fans will be willing to wade through the text, no matter how likable the heroine and how fascinating the world of Eldritch City.—Leah J. Sparks, formerly at Bowie Public Library, MD

Gr 8 Up—Memphis, TN, in the summer of 1954, is on the brink of the Civil Rights Movement and the rock-and-roll era. When Johnny Ross, a 15-year-old white boy steeped in the social conventions of a segregated society, discovers the blues and the music scene on Beale Street, "downtown for Negroes," he begins to question the racial boundaries that he has taken for granted all his life. His new friend, an aspiring young musician named Elvis Presley, moves with ease between the white world of his family and the black world of the music he loves. As Elvis makes one successful recording after another and gains a wildly enthusiastic following, Johnny enjoys being at the heart of the excitement while at the same time becoming aware of mysterious elements about his past. Why, for example, does African-American Will Turner, the longtime gardener, handyman, and chauffeur for his mother's employer, object to his son Lamont's developing a friendship with Johnny? Why does Johnny's mother warn him against spending time with Lamont? And who was Johnny's father, who disappeared before his son was born? This novel is a fascinating glimpse into the musical world of Beale Street, the society that was the segregated South, the origins of rock and roll, and one teen's quest for the truth about his father. Accurate historical details are skillfully woven into what becomes an absorbing search for personal identity.—Ginny Gustin, Sonoma County Library System, Santa Rosa, CA

Gr 4–7—For Kat, life in Medford, NY, is complicated. Her mom's a professional medium, communing with spirits. After Kat's 13th birthday, she starts seeing ghosts, too, and she fears being ostracized and perpetually friendless. She becomes friendly with Jac, a talented cellist who lugs around her instrument but hasn't played since an incident of intense stage fright, and together the reluctant medium and reluctant musician share their secrets, Kat's new dog, and a supernatural experience in the school library. The ghost of a flute-playing former student needs their help. This is middle-grade fiction meets Ghost Whisperer, combining a spectral plot with a stereotypical adolescent setting that kids will relate to—catty peers and dealing with the social hierarchy mapped out in lunch tables. The book isn't scary, but there is a creepy moment during a predawn school "break-in." The main characters are likable, and the mystery's clues are well paced. There is occasional unnatural-sounding dialogue and odd/old slang. Pop-cultural references abound. Unresolved conflicts remain but are interesting enough to merit reading further installments.—Danielle Serra, Cliffside Park Public Library, NJ

Gr 9 Up—Senior quarterback Bobby Framingham is gay and tired of keeping it a secret. He confides in a close friend who promises not to tell, and then does. Suddenly Bobby is in the spotlight, and raw emotions come into play. His best girl friend is hurt and disgusted. His coach insists that he's not really gay. His teammates' reactions range from supportive to freaked out to furious. In the meantime, his father undergoes treatment for cancer, and the football team comes together to prepare for a championship game. The sports-action sequences are well drawn and engaging, and the bond among teammates is strong. Character interactions are believable and often surprising, and Bobby is a likable narrator. A few repetitive scenes are a small price to pay for a thought-provoking, funny, and ultimately uplifting story of self-actualization that masterfully defies stereotypes about both coming out and team sports.—Megan Honig, New York Public Library

Gr 5–8—It's the 1960s, and after Itch's beloved Gramps dies, Gram relocates them from Florida to an Ohio trailer park. Itch is apprehensive, but, guided by her memories of irrepressible Gramps, she enters this unfamiliar world with aplomb, starting sixth grade in a new school and even making friends with the popular, baton-twirling Gwendolyn. Itch's mother deserted her long ago, but her grandparents have raised her with common sense and love, and Itch must draw on her inner resources and Gramps's wisdom when she discovers that her friend is being physically and psychologically abused by her mother. "'Speaking up takes courage,' he once told her. 'Growing up helps, too.'" The dramatic ending is emotionally satisfying, the story is layered with insight for the daughters of abusive and/or abandoning mothers, and the author's pleasure in language is contagious, but this novel's greatest strength is its indelible characters. Gramps is more alive in Itch's memory than most of the breathing people around her, making his physical loss even more palpable. Itch herself is a quirky and endearing heroine who grows as she forges her way through loss and grief, the tangled lives of adults, and the trials of middle school. Gwendolyn is no pitiful victim, but a believable child, somewhat twisted by her mother's sad ambitions. For all the tough subjects that this book contains, it has a buoyancy that lifts it above the category of problem novel. Itch's coming-of-age is a rich and satisfying journey.—Carolyn Lehman, Humboldt State University, Arcata, CA

Gr 5–8—In the final volume in the trilogy, Peer and his friend Hilde join Vikings raiders Gunnar Ingolfsson and his son Harald Silkenhair, Gunnar's young wife, and their crew aboard a longship bound for Vinland. Eventually the travelers reach land, returning to Gunnar's previously established settlement. When Peer discovers the evidence of a murder, relations with the ruthless Vikings begin to deteriorate. After a near-deadly confrontation with Harald, Peer flees and finds refuge with a civilization based on the Native American Mi'kmaq people. They help him to recover and treat him with kindness. When it's discovered that Harald has cold-bloodedly murdered two of their warriors, the tribe is bent on revenge. Peer must find a way to free Hilde from the Vikings and shield her from the violence to come. Langrish skillfully weaves Norse and Native American mythology among the fantasy and adventure elements. Mythical creatures and mystical elements abound, and magic is an everyday part of the characters' existence. Peer and Hilde are now teenagers, and their changing relationship—from friendship to romance—is believably depicted. Fans of the first two books will enjoy this one.—Ginny Collier, Dekalb County Public Library, Decatur, GA

Gr 7 Up—In a small town in Illinois, Jesse, a 15-year-old orphan with an unknown past, is trying to live a normal, inconspicuous life with his latest foster family, and wants to avoid being in trouble with Homeland Security again. His well-developed instinct for self-preservation is swept away when he meets Honor Clarke, who has just returned from Bali, where her father was murdered. Soon, strange and disturbing occurrences become too all-encompassing to explain away as mere coincidences. Jesse realizes that the resurrection of the Balinese Demon Queen is the cause of the trouble and that he is the only one who can stop it. The main characters remain for the most part quite flat. Headless bodies and one-liners solidly entrench the story in "B-grade Hollywood horror movie" mode, as Jesse quips. But for all the gory events (for example, a young man is found tied to his bed with turkey intestines), the mood is somewhat light. Despite the mystery, there is little suspense. Supernatural elements instill a sense of incredulity and the absurd, with a touch of humor, instead of stomach-wrenching horror and fear. A live mask, a time- and space-traveling Balinese priest, and a mynah bird that transforms into a spirit monster will appeal to fans of Darren Shan and those wanting to move on from R. L. Stine's "Fear Street" series (S & S). Readers will soak up the over-the-top, gloomy atmosphere and blood-smattered, monster-filled action. The open ending will leave them eager for imminent sequels.—Amy J. Chow, The Brearley School, New York City

Gr 6 Up—Thirteen-year-old Paula Becker is Deaf during a time when people with disabilities are ordered to be killed in Hitler's Tiergartenstrasse 4, T4. Through the help of a priest, she is hidden on the farm of a retired teacher and, when almost discovered, is moved to a homeless shelter in a church until she can return home. Telling her story through first-person free-verse poems, she draws readers into her world, sharing her fear, desperation, and uncertainty as she struggles to survive. Even though this is a short and quick read, this novel will have a lasting effect on readers, giving insight into an often-forgotten aspect of the horrors of the Third Reich. The unique writing style makes this a good choice for reluctant as well as proficient readers.—Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD

Gr 9 Up—This story opens with 16-year-old Dylan Fontaine in a Brooklyn police station being held for shoplifting a package of tighty-whities underwear while holding a bag of marijuana in his pocket for his older brother. The shoplifting was merely an accident; Dylan ran out of the store when he thought he saw his mother, who left their family weeks ago. Though he wants to get bailed out of jail, what he really wants is for his mother to come home (she ran off with her art teacher), his brother to act responsibly, and his dad, a doctor, to begin living at their home instead of the hospital. As Dylan reels from the effect of all these events, his best friend and love interest, Angie, decides it is the perfect time to make him the subject of her summer school movie project, capturing the teen's struggle with chaos and control with a quirky, film-school flair. Lurie tells this story from Dylan's point of view, in the voice of a responsible, but confused, teen. As he sorts through his issues with his brother, father, mother, and Angie, he gains confidence and courage, and his voice becomes stronger and more defined. Brooklyn and Manhattan's West Village settings are appealing. The story successfully walks the fine line of blending humor and drama, and the cinematic ending is sure to please.—Emily Anne Valente, New York Public Library

Gr 6–9—Savvy Christopher and her older sister, Callie, each have their own "one thing," and when they move from Arizona to Rhode Island, that's what they rely on to help them adjust. Savvy quickly shows her stuff when, not yet in high school, she is accepted on the elite 18-and-under basketball team. Callie's passion is cheerleading, but stress has caused her to gain weight, and she is devastated to find that she no longer qualifies to be one of the fliers on the squad at her new school. She goes on a strict exercise and diet regime, and Savvy, realizing how quickly her sister is losing weight, brings it to the attention of their parents. They put a stop to Callie's use of over-the-counter diet aids, which does nothing to improve the already strained relationship between the sisters. In October, one of Savvy's basketball games is interrupted by a detective who has been alerted to a bag of steroids in her locker. She insists that they are not her pills, but the fact that she has been on prednisone for a bad case of poison ivy does not help her case. Savvy and her coach are temporarily suspended, and Savvy finds that even close friends regard her innocence with some doubt. As with Mad Cat (HarperCollins, 2005), Mackel has turned a tough subject in the world of teen competitive sports into a highly readable blend of intense action, interfamily relationships, and intrigue. Readers will come away with a better understanding of the controversy surrounding steroid use, and with an appreciation for a talented voice in young adult literature.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 7–9—Callum and his parents recently moved to Winnipeg from Glasgow, Scotland, where he was brutally knifed by a group of hooligans a year before. Still recovering physically and mentally, he adjusts slowly to Canadian culture but makes two friends, Tyler and Aiden. Trouble begins on the first day of ninth grade when Callum meets Cindy. She has an argument with her friend Rick, an older and bigger student, and Callum is caught up in a brawl with one of Rick's buddies. The boys continue to bully and hurt Callum, bringing back memories of his attack. Meanwhile, Cindy strikes up a relationship with Callum. He discovers that she has an abusive, alcoholic father and promises himself to remedy the situation with or without her consent. Rick, who also wants to help, becomes his ally. However, when Cindy's father is arrested, she angrily lashes out at both of them. Tyler, who has had a crush on Cindy for years, attacks Callum with a knife. Events come to a dramatic climax as Callum shows the other teens his scars, also revealing the lasting affects of violence. The book starts off slowly, but the momentum builds as the numerous plotlines begin to come together. Throughout, Callum struggles to strike a balance between living with his fear and having the courage to stand up for himself. The straightforward language makes this book a good choice for reluctant readers.—Marie C. Hansen, New York Public Library

Gr 4–6—An easy-to-read but sluggish novel about a family with an autistic child. Brian (10 or 12) narrates the story, centering on the odd behaviors of his 6-year-old-brother, Joseph. Mammay understands the difficulties faced by autistic children and their parents, and she conveys those emotions through a serviceable plot. Characters are stark: Brian is studious and caring; Joseph is oddly out-of-control; schoolmate Louie is a bully who creates trouble, consistently uses bad grammar, and refuses to cooperate in class. Finally, a project where Louie must work with Brian and his two best friends turns out to be a winning, understanding solution for everyone. While the novel presents factual information about kids with autism (as well as kids with other disabilities), the happy ending—where everyone accepts Joseph for who he is and Louie understands his own ADHD—is too facile a solution. Marginal.—Linda Beck, Indian Valley Public Library, Telford, PA

Gr 6–8—Being run over by a bus and living to tell about it is the impetus that pushes young Joel Gustafson do a good deed. Only it doesn't turn out to be as easy as it seems. Anguished by the feeling that he needs to atone for his miraculous escape, he goes from friend to friend looking for ideas about just what his good deed should be. He settles on helping his friend Gertrud find a husband, which is a tall task since she is decidedly eccentric and missing a nose. Joel runs into many roadblocks while trying to enact his plan, testing both his determination and resourcefulness. Fans of Mankell's A Bridge to the Stars (Delacorte, 2007) will enjoy the reunion with Joel, his father, Sara, and Gertrud No-Nose. Others might be confused by larger-than-life characters in a very simple plot. They might also scratch their heads at the setting—a small town in Northern Sweden in 1957. Also, some of the translations seem more British than American, which could be confusing. This book will not appeal to a broad audience.—Nicki Clausen-Grace, Carillon Elementary School, Oviedo, FL

Gr 8 Up—Several years have passed since the passageway to the Other Kingdom closed for the five sisters introduced in Wildwood Dancing (Knopf, 2007). Two are married with children, and Tati still has not been seen since she followed her true love into the other world. Cybele's Secret is told by scholarly Paula. Following an accident, she is required to travel with her father to Istanbul in order to assist him in procuring a mysterious religious artifact. Upon their arrival, it becomes clear that there are many who desire Cybele's Gift; not only is the artifact valuable and viewed as a good-luck charm, but also a new cult that practices ritual sacrifice to Cybele is rumored. Soon Paula embarks on a quest to an unfamiliar part of the Other Kingdom. At stake are the life and happiness of her sister, the unfulfilled debt of a friend, and the possibility of true love. Although the fantastical elements of this tale are brief until the last quarter of the book, the plot holds together, providing a sufficient complement to Wildwood Dancing. Paula is not featured extensively in the first book, and although her fierce independence, intellect, and physical attributes are similar to those of the previous narrator, Jena, it is still a pleasure to hear her voice. The Turkish culture is well researched and skillfully incorporated, bringing a richness to the scene in which the plot effortlessly arcs.—Heather M. Campbell, formerly at Philip S. Miller Library, Castle Rock, CO

Gr 4–6—Chela Gonzalez and her friend Nora are looking forward to sixth grade in their El Paso school. They have finally been placed in the A-class, the "smart class," which is for students who only speak English. Then Chela's father has a stroke on the first day of school, her grandmother comes to help out, and "the air became thick with the smell of old lady perfume, of dying flowers and alcohol…. It was the smell of bad things." Nora becomes a member of the popular group of girls who've decided to make her an outcast. Chela is asked to enroll in the Gifted and Talented group that meets after school, which helps to ease her loneliness. Her father suffers another stroke, fatal this time, and again the smell of old-lady perfume fills the little house. The book ends with the family trying to regroup after their loss. Chela is rewarded with the highest honor at the school's end-of-year awards ceremony—the All School Girl award. Through her pride, her sadness is also evident since her father was the one who always pushed her to do her best. This is a sweet coming-of-age story, telling of the cruelties of children toward one another and dealing with the loss of a parent. The story should appeal to readers dealing with their own tween years.—Diana Pierce, Leander High School, TX

Gr 5–8—Jack, 17, is a storyteller who leaves his village to seek his fortune in the Royal City. He is appointed Royal Storyteller, charged with lifting the spirits of King Alphonse, who is grieving his wife's death. Jack makes an enemy of the young and bratty Prince Yoss, but falls in love with beautiful but melancholy Princess Stelinda, who tends to talk in rhyming couplets. When the cruel prince takes the throne, Jack is forced to travel the kingdom, spinning stories that make the new king look good. He faces several trials, including imprisonment and near beheading. The book's messages are clear: stories are powerful for good or evil, and we must each live our own to the fullest. There are stories within stories here, and a framing narrative. Characters are colorful and memorable: Loquasto, the talking midnight mynah who is Jack's companion and who loves a talking fish; the illusionist Zephyrio; the Robin Hood-like Garth Golden-Eye; and Celestina, the Woman of the Woods and rightful heir to the throne. At the conclusion, readers will be pleased to find that Jack is the grandfather in the framing narrative, having lived as happily ever after as he had hoped and now bidding his grandson, the listener of this tale, to be off, as the world awaits him. No dragons, elves, or evil stepmothers here, but this narrative will be enjoyed by those who like traditional fairy tales in which good triumphs over evil and the simple boy scores the beautiful princess.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Gr 8 Up—King Drustan's heir has vanished. With Prince Cassiel missing, nothing is right: the trees do not bear fruit and babies are stillborn. Attempting to unravel this mystery is Neill, the King's elder son known throughout court as "the Bastard," and Timou, a 17-year-old mage who has learned her art from her father. Though Neill and Timou have never met, they share a common origin: an enigmatic woman with pale hair and dark eyes who bore them to their respective fathers before vanishing. When she does return, this powerful sorceress is bent on using her offspring and her magic to seize control of the Kingdom. This poetically written tale follows its multi-threaded story line through sinister forests, mazes of light, and numerous worlds, including a different facet of the Kingdom—a perfect realm frozen in time and reflected in the lake surrounding the City. Though the how and why of all of this is sometimes vague, Neumeier spins a good tale of two young people coming to terms with a sinister heritage. Give this one to readers who enjoy the dark, dreamlike fantasy of Neil Gaiman.—Christi Esterle, Parker Library, CO

Gr 8 Up—In this epic story of survival, betrayal, and community, the fittest humans are prized as hunters and for taking care of the Tribe, while those with a number of marks on their Tally sticks, or otherwise deemed useless, are traded for food with other tribes in the region. Stopmouth, a "savage" human with a stutter, is healed by a strange visitor from the Roof following a hunting accident. He and Indrani develop a bond that is scorned by the rest of the Tribe, but is one that will see them through some challenging times as they set out on a journey to try to return Indrani to whence she came. This well-paced fantasy/science fiction blend perfectly introduces community conflict at a base level. Stopmouth and his brother are constantly at odds over their roles in the family and their individual ambition. Power and influence are accepted and controlled in very different ways by these main characters and, from the very first chapters, readers can see that lies and deceit are strong forces on the characters. There are numerous situations that could be used to supplement classroom discussion on moral and ethical behavior. Easy to follow and intriguing at every turn, The Inferior will hold readers from page to page, chapter to chapter, to the very end.—Dylan Thomarie, Johnstown High School, NY

Gr 5–8—On his summer vacation, Jack joins his scientist father and a research assistant to tag lions on the Tanzanian savanna but is stranded in the wilderness when their small plane crashes, killing both men. The survival story takes an extraordinary turn when the injured 13-year-old finds himself cared for by a boyish primate he comes to call Stone Boy. Jack remembers his father's excitement, earlier, when Jack found a trail of ancient primatelike footprints and begins wondering if tagging lions was just a cover for a deeper interest in tracking evidence of early man. The author develops Stone Boy with just enough human qualities to make him endearing, yet realistic. The unlikely friends learn to communicate using gestures and noises, make spears to kill game, and build fires with glass from the plane. The short idyll is disrupted by the appearance of Stone Boy's tribe, including his mother; its alpha leader; and Mohawk, a primate whose penchant for violence makes Jack even more resolved to find his way back to civilization. A satisfying ending includes an emotional rescue and Jack's tight-lipped explanation of his experiences, protecting Stone Boy, as his friend had protected him. Factual information about anthropologists and African wildlife intertwines with speculative fiction to create a fast-paced adventure that middle graders will relish.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 5–7—This sci-fi novel takes place on the planet Lindos, where 12-year-old Violynne Vivant struggles with the disappearance of her parents, who vanished from an archaeological dig a year earlier. Though there are not many humans living on Lindos, she is looked after by her Aunt Madelyn and their butler, Einhart. Violynne's life gets even more complicated when someone breaks into their home, which is filled with valuable artifacts, and steals only an old violin. This incident triggers many others, resulting in Violynne trying to figure out who kidnapped her parents and keeping herself safe from the culprit. The concept of Lost Time is a good one: combining a suspenseful mystery with an otherworldly science fiction tale. Unfortunately, the promise is not fulfilled within the story. Many alien life-forms and futuristic technologies are introduced, but none of them is fully realized or completely explained. The mystery unfolds at a frantic pace, and readers must acclimate quickly to the various events with limited information. The end result seems rushed, and the resolution unsatisfying. Vivian Vande Velde's Heir Apparent (Harcourt, 2002) or Margaret Haddix's "Shadow Children" series (S & S) are better choices for sci-fi fans who also love a good mystery.—Saleena L. Davidson, South Brunswick Public Library, Monmouth Junction, NJ

Gr 8–10—Lady Emily Southwell has been counting the days until her graduation and cohosting a coming-out ball with her friends, known collectively as La Petite Four. What she doesn't count on is being betrothed to horrid Lord Robert, and she must reach her father in London to change his mind. Lord Robert quickly shows his true colors, being just as horrible as Emily feared, and her father will hear nothing of canceling the engagement. Then James Cropper enters the picture. He has a shady past that doesn't squelch Emily's love for him. Priscilla's scandalous relatives may be her downfall, Ariadne is quite the gossip, and Daphne gets cold feet and clumsy when a handsome man is in her midst. However, the bulk of the story surrounds Emily. The language is often poetic, with words such as "reticule" and "puce" and old-fashioned phrases like "havey cavey." The story line is predictable, with each of the La Petite Four resolving issues cleanly, but readers will push through and find the ending satisfying. An excellent choice for fans of Anna Godbersen's "Luxe" series (HarperCollins).—Nichole King, Morgan Hill Library, CA

Gr 7–10—In this sequel to The Schwa Was Here (Dutton, 2004), Brooklynite Antsy Bonano, 14, finds another peculiar friend, a Swedish import named Gunnar Ümlaut. When a balloon from the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade gets away, Antsy and his friends Howie and Ira head into Manhattan to follow the debacle. On the way, they run into their classmate Gunnar. Watching the catastrophe unfold, he confides to Antsy that he's been "coming to disasters" lately, and that he's dying of Pulmonary Monoxic Systemia. Gunnar says he has only six months to live, so Antsy gives him one of his own, drawing up a legal-looking document, and, before he knows it, the whole school's giving Gunnar months of their lives. Spending more time at Gunnar's house, Antsy falls for his friend's older sister, and also notices that things seem off. Gunnar's obsession with his presumed imminent death is largely ignored. When Antsy discovers that Gunnar is not going to die, that he was "diagnosed" by a fake online doctor, he wonders why the boy lied. As Antsy uncovers the truth—that Gunnar's dad has gambled away the family's money and they're headed back to Sweden—he learns more about the meaning of the time you have on Earth. This novel is as cleverly plotted and well paced as The Schwa; it is brimming with amusing secondary characters and situations that add depth and interest. Fans won't be disappointed, and newcomers won't have any problem jumping right in.—Jennifer Barnes, Homewood Library, IL

Gr 8 Up—Distant from his emotionally absent father, and missing his mother, who died recently, 16-year-old Troy first finds solace on a solo camping trip and then with his friends—Tom Buller, a wild and fearless farmhand; Gabe Benavidez, the timorous and underestimated son of a wealthy Western ranch owner; and Luz Benavidez, Gabe's sister and Troy's lifetime love. That summer is a journey of loss, self-discovery, pain, triumph, and growth as the young people try to define who they are and what they're meant to do. Oftentimes they seek answers from what Troy calls Ghost Medicine, a Native American philosophy that explains the strength and signs that can be drawn from nature. While Troy senses that change is coming fast and fierce, he never imagines the deadly threat the sheriff's son imposes when childhood pranks, jealousy, and vengeance get out of control. Troy wishes to be lost, but his greatest hope is to be found, and Ghost Medicine beautifully captures that paradox in this timeless and tender coming-of-age story. Not only will it inspire readers to prod the boundaries of their own courage, but it will also remind them that life and love are precious and fleeting.—Terri Clark, Smokey Hill Library, Centennial, CO

Gr 5–8—As daughters of a 13th-century Japanese feudal lord, Kimi and Hana have been trained in the arts of self-defense. Though Kimi dreams of becoming a great samurai warrior, she knows it is a future she could never realistically achieve. One fateful day, her life is turned upside down. Called to their home for a visit, Kimi's uncle betrays her father, murdering him in order to seize power. The sisters escape, determined to find their mother and younger brother, and to eventually exact revenge on their callous uncle, they disguise themselves as peasant boys and travel to a samurai school run by their father's old friend, Master Goku. They gain entry as servants, but are allowed to continue their training. Filled with battles and bloodshed, this exciting story is placed against a strongly depicted historical setting evoked through everyday details and descriptions of cultural practices. Kimi and Hana are vividly drawn characters, and their emotions ring true, from their terror and shock in the aftermath of the murders to their dedication to restoring their family honor. Youngsters will stand in awe of these two talented, steadfast, and remarkably brave young women, and the cliff-hanger ending will have readers impatiently awaiting the next installment.—Caryl Soriano, New York Public Library

Gr 3–6—An adventurous young milkmaid named Lucy decides to climb the Scratchy Mountains to learn more about her mother, who vanished many years before. At the top of a mountain she discovers a town dominated by unnecessary rules, where the weather runs on schedule, and the townspeople live in alphabetical order. Lucy's friend Wynston, who is the prince of their small town, and who is supposed to be looking for a suitable princess to marry, follows her up the mountain and helps her rescue her pet prairie dog. As they work together, their spirited friendship blossoms. Ultimately, they discover that it's okay to bend rules if not break them. This fairy tale, set in a time "before television and interstate highways" in the land of Bewilderness, has appealing characters who grow and develop; clear, accessible language; lively dialogue; and a light humorous tone. While the pacing is a little slow and the central message somewhat heavy-handed, children may enjoy the whimsical setting and the sweet friendship that blossoms between the protagonists.—Mari Pongkhamsing, St. Perpetua School, Lafayette, CA

Gr 5 Up—This fantasy takes place in a land reminiscent of ancient Japan, populated by the indigenous Yakoo people and the immigrant Yogo who now rule. Both peoples tell a story of a child and a water spirit but with much different details. For the Yogo, the child was possessed by a water demon, while for the Yakoo, the water spirit was essential to prevent a horrendous drought. Now, it seems that this spirit has returned and is somehow living in Prince Chagum, and his father feels that he must have his son assassinated to defeat the demon. Chagum's mother prevails upon Balsa, a bodyguard-for-hire, to flee the capital with Chagum. Balsa is wounded after fighting off four of the assassins and seeks shelter with her friend Tanda, a healer. As she begins to train Chagum in life outside the palace, Tanda and his teacher Torogai begin researching Yakoo folklore and employing magic to discover more about this water spirit. In the meantime, the Yogo Star Readers research their records. Only through their combined studies are they able to learn the nature of the true danger and the means to defeat it. Whether from the original or through the translation, there are a few rough spots in the dialogue. Still, this book should appeal to fans of medieval and fantasy manga and of Usagi Yojimbo. The forthcoming manga and anime will also create interest.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Gr 9 Up—Caldwell, CA, is a 90-minute drive from Las Vegas, but this down-on-its luck town and its close-knit residents are in another universe. Mr. Abbott is a conceited math teacher and a genuinely unpleasant individual. He is so low that he has stolen the coveted poker tournament trophy—a wristwatch—from someone in a coma, someone who happened to be Huck Porter's dying father. Huck pledges to get even, and win back the watch, by beating Mr. Abbott at his own game—no limit Texas hold 'em. In true Volponi style, this book grabs hold and won't let go. The characters are well crafted, and an elaborate description of a three-day poker tournament held at Saint Bart's rec center is riveting. A high-stakes thriller, particularly for those elusive young adult male nonreaders.—Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

Gr 4–7—Lady Violet Winters, 14, and her American chum Garth Hudson travel to Monte Carlo for this third installment in the series. An Edwardian Nancy Drew, Violet senses a mystery when her acquaintances suffer a rash of diamond thefts. In between nights at the casino and calls on their wide social circle, Violet and Garth race to cut off the culprits with the help of a new friend, the malaprop queen cum Russian pianist, Marie Cherkassky. When Violet's mother loses her engagement ring, the hunt turns personal, and it becomes even more so when the nervous criminals push Violet off a yacht. She corners the thieves with the help of perfume-sniffing bloodhounds and her unfailing intuition. Exotic settings and clue-driven mystery writing will attract a solid following for this British import. While the writing is linear and unadorned, the action doesn't pause, and Wallace's earnest good humor will remind readers of that legendary sleuth. Details about aristocratic society will please historical-fiction readers while the range of characters makes the mystery just challenging enough for the intended audience.—Caitlin Augusta, The Darien Library, CT

Gr 9 Up—Werlin combines magic, romance, and a family curse in this 21st-century fairy tale based on the ballad "Scarborough Fair." On the night of her prom, Lucy, 17, is raped by her date and becomes pregnant. She decides to keep the child, and she is supported by her foster parents and Zach, her childhood friend whose love for Lucy changes from platonic to romantic as the story progresses. The teen discovers the curse on the women in her family when she reads her birth mother's diary. Lucy is destined for madness at 18 unless she can perform the three impossible tasks described in the song and break the curse of the Elfin Knight. She is determined to rid herself and her unborn child of the curse, and her family and Zach help her as she works to solve the riddles. This unique story flows smoothly and evenly, and the well-drawn characters and subtle hints of magic early on allow readers to enter willingly into the world of fantasy. As in The Rules of Survival (Dial, 2006), Werlin addresses tough topics. Rape, teen pregnancy, and family madness set the story in motion, but the strength of Lucy's character and the love of her family and friends allow her to deal with such difficult matters and take on the impossible. Teens, especially young women, will enjoy this romantic fairy tale with modern trappings.—Jennifer D. Montgomery, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green

Gr 4–7—In the voice of her sister Audrey at age 11, White has created a fictionalized memoir of her life as a child in a Virginia coal mining camp. It is 1948, and the family is living in grinding poverty with an alcoholic father and a mother who suffers periods of depression. School bullies torment Audrey, calling her Skeleton Girl (her weight "fell off" during a bout of scarlet fever), and dare her to climb the water tank at night and walk around the perimeter. Shining through the gloom are Audrey's friendship with classmate Virgil, whose cleverness averts the potential water-tank catastrophe, and the compassion of her teacher, Miss Stairus, beloved by all. Audrey's physical hunger and her longing for a better life are palpable, but it is only through tragedy that a better future emerges for the Whites. Details of setting and time are pitch perfect; spare, lyrical language combines skillfully with dialect; and humor infuses the story as the kids share jokes, including some based on the "Little Audrey" comic strip. Characters are carefully drawn and nuanced, and there is neither saccharine sentimentalism in Audrey's relationship with her younger sisters whom she calls the three little pigs, nor are her father and his enabling parents demonized. A note to readers and cover and interior photographs of Audrey and her mother and sisters make this story all the more real and compelling. A little gem.—Marie Orlando, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY

Gr 3–6—After scrimping and saving for two years, the Ingalls family finally saves enough money to send their eldest child to Iowa College for the Blind. Sixteen-year-old Mary misses her family, but she begins to learn new skills, including Braille and piano. More importantly, she learns to deal openly with her disability and to gain self-confidence. Mary's encounters with other students, including her congenial roommates, are realistic and have the same warm feel of the original "Little House" books. Similarly, the school bully who unfairly singles Mary out for persecution is reminiscent of Nellie Oleson. What makes this story engaging is the detailed account of daily life in 1881 at an all-girls' school for the blind. An afterword explains that while little is known about Mary's personal experiences there (except for her excellent academic achievement), there is a record of the class offerings and organizational structures in the school's archives. Young readers will enjoy learning more about Mary's experiences on her own in this satisfying stand-alone story.—Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 9 Up—Alex and James are only one year apart, but the distance between these brothers is vast. James, a popular and talented senior, awaits news about his early admission to Duke, playing tennis and going to parties with his buddies on the weekends. Alex, a junior, is confused and disoriented after having chugged Pine-Sol at a party, lost all of his friends, and found himself secretly dating Nathen, one of his brother's best pals. The backdrop is Tuscaloosa, AL, where Alex knows his emerging sexual identity will never be accepted, and James fears he will be stuck forever if Duke turns him down. The boys wander their way through the school year fulfilling family obligations, befriending an odd and lonely neighbor boy, and navigating their way back to mutual affection after a period of mild estrangement. Wilson's novel offers a look inside the minds of both brothers, allowing readers to experience their parents, their school, and their town from two distinct points of view, confident and fearful, indifferent and melancholy, impatient and reflective. Some readers may feel that the book has a bit of a slow start, with some of the relationships only beginning to develop after page 100. They may come away wishing to have gotten to know the central characters more deeply, although the relationship between Alex and Nathen is touchingly realistic. In the end, this book may appeal to teens who are grappling with decisions about the future, the frustrations of family, and the choices that relationships require of us.—Nora G. Murphy, Los Angeles Academy Middle School

Gr 7–10—Set in Southern California, this novel is about three teens who find a common bond and grow in their relationships as they learn the healing arts from a curandera (folk healer). Marina, from a newly wealthy Hispanic family, struggles with her mother's insistence that she forget her Mexican heritage and barrio roots. Fern, whose Colombian family still lives in the old neighborhood, is a free spirit who has trouble trusting a potential boyfriend. When Rogelia Garcia, a wise curandera from Mexico, becomes the maid at Marina's house, the girls befriend her granddaughter, Xochitl, who grieves for the twin sister she recently lost in a tragic accident. Rogelia takes the girls on as apprentices and helps them to understand and control their innate magical powers (Marina hears voices from the beyond, Fern sees auras, and Xochitl has the ability to disappear) while teaching them that by caring for and healing others, they can help and heal themselves. The narrative is well written and descriptive, incorporating Spanish phrases that are easy to understand in context and add flavor to the telling. The characters and their relationships with others are solidly developed. The novel will appeal to readers interested in magic and astrology, and several spells are appended (charging a crystal wand, a confidence incantation, etc.).—Lorraine B. Wiener, Inglewood High School, CA

Gr 4–6—Though trailing the main rush of solar system updates that followed the International Astronomical Union's 2006 reclassification of the planets, this fluently written, handsomely designed tour makes a good choice for smaller and less-well-budgeted collections. Steering a typical itinerary, Aguilar begins with the Sun, visits each terrestrial planet, dwarf planet, and gas giant from Mercury to Eris, then closes with glimpses of other solar systems, plus a compressed set of comparative charts and useful Web sites. His grasp of classical mythology is not firm (Apollo was not "the mightiest of all the gods"), but his astronomical information is both accurate and expressed in lively ways: "A soda can dropped on the surface [of Venus] would be crushed by the atmospheric pressure. These thick clouds also work like windows in a car, trapping incoming sunlight." The author's big, bright digital paintings, supplemented by an occasional photo, offer a gallery of close-ups, group portraits, moons, comets, diagrammatic views, and cutaways that will attract casual browsers as well as budding astronomers and assignment-driven readers. Use as a replacement; it's past time to retire any title on your shelves that refers to "nine planets."—John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 4–7—Straddling the divide between fiction and nonfiction, Brave Deeds tells the true story of two Dutch resistance fighters through the eyes of a fictitious 11-year-old. In the fall of 1944, the anonymous narrator's parents must flee the Nazis, and she is taken in the middle of the night from their Rotterdam home to spend several months with the Braals. Frans Braal, a conscientious objector before Germany invaded Holland in 1940, is credited with leading the Dutch Resistance Movement on the island of Voorne. Together, he and his wife transformed their remote house, Het Buitenhuis, into a safe haven for all manner of refugees, risking their own lives and the lives of their young children in the process. At times, there are almost 30 adults and children living together. The day-to-day life at Het Buitenhuis is well described, but details about how Braal pulled off his various resistance exploits are absent. The author is a friend of the family about whom she writes, and her information comes directly from the survivors, with no other sources given. Alma's tribute to an ordinary family who took extraordinary risks is commendable, and the numerous photographs from the family's archives are very helpful. However, her decision to use the unnamed narrator to "stand for all children who go through war" weakens the offering and leaves readers feeling disconnected.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

Gr 3–6—These titles focus on the lands and cultures of Canada's Northwest Territories and are replete with sharp and attractive full-color photographs. In We Feel Good, a local woman describes her life with her husband and two daughters. Julie-Ann is a Canadian Ranger who studies business management but, more importantly, she is a student of Gwich'in language and culture. She was sent to a residential school at age seven and has spent the last 10 years reestablishing her people's traditional practices and beliefs. A boxed area, "Our Words," gives a few words in English and in Gwichya Gwich'in. In Delta, an 11-year-old boy who lives in the Mackenzie Delta region with his family tells about life there. His father is a renewable resource officer and has taught him how to hunt, fish, trap, and drive a boat. Readers also learn about his language, schooling, and clothing as well as the important role that storytelling plays in the culture. These titles provide some useful information for reports and are interesting additions for general reading.—Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 6–9—This comprehensive account of Goodall's life and work among the chimpanzees of the Gombe Preserve in Africa will find interest with students who are interested in subjects such as primatology, environmental preservation, animal behavior, and women's studies. Goodall's career path, professional interactions, and research methods are detailed, and her personal life, loves, affairs, and family relationships are described. The validity of her questionable scientific approach and her academic standing are touched upon. Murky photographs of Goodall in Africa illustrate the dry and passionless text.—Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

Gr 8 Up—Cormier is generally cited as one of the finest and most challenged writers for teens. This combination of biography and literary criticism explains his appeal to readers as well as the most common objections to his works from parents and school districts. A history of other censorship, including several recent court cases involving the First Amendment, and a biographical sketch of Cormier precede the discussion of The Chocolate War (1974), I Am the Cheese (1977), and After the First Death (1979, all Knopf). Beckman notes Cormier's use of various literary devices and provides contrasting viewpoints on the themes that have caused his writing to be the target of so many challenges. A section on Cormier's manuscript archive and stock photographs of incidental figures is less relevant to the subject. Discussion questions are appended. A helpful overview of the works of a major YA author.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

Gr 10 Up—This guide deserves a spot in every school, public, and community college library. Filled with information on helping students make choices about higher education, including college selection and applications, it will also help them make sense of the myriad ways to pay for it. Chapters on scholarships, loans, grants, and financial aid for specialized interests, including the military, survey what is out there in accessible terms. Sidebars like "It's a Fact!" and "Quick Tip" remind students that study-abroad opportunities are for everyone, not just language majors, and that the Coast Guard does not offer ROTC programs. The last two chapters are directories of resources and state higher-education agencies. A lengthy index helps support the substantial amount of information provided, which includes many Web site addresses and phone numbers of various agencies and scholarship providers. The title might shortchange the book's appeal to potential users, not realizing all of the topics that the volume covers, but it will not disappoint those who need a solid overview of both the opportunities and financial challenges that await the college-bound.—Carol Fazioli, Gwynedd-Mercy College, Gwynedd Valley, PA

Gr 6–8—On October 8, 1871, a fire started in the O'Learys' barn in Chicago. In January 1918, an outbreak of influenza, with a high death rate, began in Haskell County, KS. These occurrences brought about lasting changes in fire prevention and building codes, and medical changes in dealing with influenza. These books, which describe the disasters and their aftermath in detail, are well written and informative. Although many people know about the Chicago fire, most are wrongly informed about its origin. As the book describes, Mrs. O'Leary's cow is the unfortunate accused in a crime she did not commit. Bennie also explains the lack of photographs of the fire—chaos did not allow the use of the tripods that were necessary with cameras of the time—but sketches from the disaster and later photographs are reproduced and discussed. The inclusion of black-and-white and color photographs and drawings and sidebars help to make these books first-rate for reports and general browsing.—Karen Scott, Thompson Middle School, Alabaster, AL

Gr 8 Up—If these two books prove anything, it's that keeping a pet is as much about animal husbandry as it is about love and affection. In terms of a guinea pig, one is not enough—prospective owners should keep at least two or none at all, because the stress of isolation on a solitary animal is undetectable but nearly fatal. And as for fish, it's not the creature that is being maintained, but the environment. Without a perfectly balanced aquarium, anything inside is doomed. Both books are translated from German editions and seem to have been written for an adult audience. They rely on a previous knowledge of terminology related to their subjects and sometimes read like textbooks. There are tests and experiments that readers can conduct, as if to verify the information in the books. The lists for further reading are spare, focusing more on contacting animal associations than print resources, although some are provided. Fabulous color photos show the guinea pigs and aquariums in all their well-maintained glory. Comprehensive and dense, these titles are best suited to a collection serving teens or future zoologists.—Kara Schaff Dean, Walpole Public Library, MA

Gr 3–6—This stunning picture-book biography combines a lyrical text with wonderfully creative mixed-media illustrations in an impressive and personable homage to an extraordinary and accomplished man. Bryant's poetic writing—"Gurgle, gurgle—swish, swish, swoosh…. The water went slipping and sliding over the smooth rocks, then poured in a torrent over the falls, then quieted again below"—describes beautifully how, as a child, Williams would lie peacefully by the Passaic River, listening to the sounds of the water; he appreciated nature and the ordinary experiences of life. Book pages form a background for some of the illustrations and prescription pads become the paper for the doctor's poetic scribbling. A lovely spread shows a display of constellations while in the foreground, the poet sits framed in the light of an attic window, with one of his poems about a night sky laid out on a book cover. Williams's poems, which appear in the book in a variety of colors and fonts as part of the art, are highlighted in uniform type with standard line breaks on the inside cover pages. A time line of his life juxtaposed with a list of world events, a brief author's note about his significance as a poet, and an illustrator's note that explains how Sweet researched the project are appended.—Kirsten Cutler, Sonoma County Library, CA

Gr 3–7—A science-experiment bonanza. Divided into chapters with titles such as "The Human Wonder," "Fluid Feats," "Energy Entrapments," and "Mathematical Duplicity," this volume has more than 200 experiments with clear how-to instructions. All of the projects are doable and the science behind them is explained in a kid-accessible manner. Children can make nutty putty or a sandwich-bag bomb, use a magnet to extract the iron from breakfast cereal, or tie a knot in a chicken bone. Experiments that require adult supervision are noted. Black-and-white line drawings add humor and clarify instructions. This is a great resource for teachers, parents, and budding scientists—and for any youngster who can't resist a challenge.—Ragan O'Malley, Saint Ann's School, Brooklyn, NY

Gr 6–9—In 1961, just three years after Mao's disastrous Great Leap Forward, Li Cunxin was born, the sixth son in a family of Chinese peasants who eked out a meager existence on a rural commune. During his childhood he endured unimaginable poverty and hardships and witnessed the shooting of 15 "counter-revolutionaries" by Mao's Red Guards. When chosen to audition for Madame Mao's Beijing Ballet Academy at age 11, ballet became his chance for a good job and enough food for life. Many years of training, two U.S. trips, one premature marriage, and a defection later, Li joined the Houston Ballet as a principal dancer, paving his way to international fame. Although told in a rather bland style—mostly in basic declarative sentences—the information about the country at this time and the danger and angst that accompanied the dancer's decision to defect will be of interest to teens. This Young Reader's Edition of the adult book (Putnam, 2004) gives a much fuller portrait than the author's picture-book version, Dancing to Freedom (Walker, 2008). The black-and-white photos, the abbreviated history, and time line will help students place Li's life story into historical context. With the current interest in all things Chinese, and with the immigration debate in full swing, this is a good choice, both to promote an understanding of Chinese culture and to provoke a discussion about the issues facing today's immigrants.—Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI

Gr 4–7—"I know that the education of this child will be the distinguishing event of my life, if I have the brains and perseverance to accomplish it," wrote Annie Sullivan. Her words proved so prophetic that few know the story of this remarkable woman outside of her role as Keller's teacher. The daughter of poor Irish immigrants, she struggled with vision loss for most of her life. After her mother's death, her abusive father abandoned the eight-year-old and her brother, and the two were sent to the poorhouse. At age 14, she finally entered school, with no worldly possessions, no education, and no manners. And yet she graduated six years later as valedictorian of her class and would go on to win acclaim as one of history's greatest educators. Illustrated with period photographs and a pleasing graphic style, Delano's text makes extensive use of meticulously cited quotes from primary sources to convey not only the facts of Sullivan's life, but the everyday realities and emotions as well. The book emphasizes that the woman was a great teacher not in spite of her own struggles, but because they gave her a unique empathy for her student and a determination to never give up.—Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

Gr 3–7—This elegant, scholarly picture-book biography brings the explorer's fantastic journey to life. Born into a wealthy Venetian merchant family in 1254, Polo embarked on his famous trip to China at age 17 with his father and uncle, both accomplished explorers. A gifted storyteller, Demi weaves her subject's own accounts into a seamless tale of wonder. Traveling by boat, horse, pack mule, and camel, the group faced constant peril—bandits, pirates, vast deserts where "…eerie spirit voices…tried to lead them astray," mountains "so high and so cold that no birds flew," monsoons, dust storms, cannibals, illness, and murderous warriors. On their journey home after almost a quarter of a century, only 8 of a party of 600 survived. When they finally returned home, their amazing tales were often met with disbelief, even mockery. While defending his city during a war with Genoa in 1298, Marco was captured and imprisoned. He told his stories to a fellow prisoner—a writer, who recorded them in "the greatest travel book ever written," now known as The Travels of Marco Polo. The delicately rendered illustrations, painted with Chinese inks and gold overlays, often extend beyond their intricate frames of "Chinese and Indian embroidery and Italian, Arabian, and Persian designs…on silk." Dominated by red and gold, these miniatures capture the exotic beauty of 13th-century China.—Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools

Gr 7 Up—This volume of highly entertaining monologues is gleaned from one-act and full-length plays published by Playscripts, Inc., allowing for full characters with interesting stories. The well-organized book divides the pieces by gender and includes a section with monologues that are gender neutral. Pieces range from one to five minutes in length and cover a wide range of emotions. Characters run the gamut from historical to modern, literary to supernatural. They range in age from 5 to 18. Dialogue is realistic and occasionally gritty, giving teen actors the opportunity to use strong voices. This is an excellent volume to help students prepare for competitions as well as to use in drama, speech, or English classes. Drama instructors can also get an idea of the tone and pace of the plays from which these pieces are taken, making it easier to select a school production.—Terrilyn Fleming, Colby Public Schools, KS

Gr 3–6—Brief profiles of 20 individuals from Haym Solomon to Daniel Pearl. Famous and lesser-known figures are included, such as Albert Einstein and Rachel Frank, who preached sermons nearly a century before women were accepted as rabbis. While they varied widely in their adherence to Jewish practice, these individuals were (or are) committed to social justice. Accompanying portraits were done in a variety of styles and media in the spirit of the biographees' accomplishments. For instance, the portrait of Levi Strauss, who invented blue jeans, is painted on denim. The one of Emma Lazarus incorporates words from "The New Colossus." The approach is creative and expressive, although potentially confusing for literal-minded young readers. The text is clearly written, but the brevity of each profile necessarily means that details are glossed over and that minimal social or historical context is provided. While the life stories are a little dry, Drucker's admiration for each person comes through loud and clear, and may drive readers to seek out fuller biographies. Back matter extends the book's usefulness as a report starter. A perfect resource for Jewish American Heritage Month in May or Jewish Book Month in November.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

Gr 7 Up—The founder and CEO of Dell Inc. started building and selling computers out of his dorm room when he was a college freshman and went on to be the youngest person ever to run a Fortune 500 company. Friedman follows Dell's career as an innovator in the direct-sales field through his successes and failures, including the scandal in 2006 over faulty lithium-ion batteries that caused the company's laptops to spontaneously combust. The author mentions Dell's colleagues' criticisms of him as aloof and hard to read, but generally the tycoon comes across as energetic and creative, a family man, and a major philanthropist. Color photographs and a career time line are included. This book is better suited to readers interested in business innovation than to those who are curious about computer technology.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

Gr 3–6—Concise texts focus on two fast-spreading, invasive species. The books first describe these creatures' outstanding physical and behavioral characteristics at each stage in their life cycle, diet, and natural habitat, and then explain how they were introduced into areas outside their natural range—either by accident or deliberately—and the nature and extent of the ecological damage they have caused, and various attempts to eradicate or at least control the animals. For example, larvae of the emerald ash borer have infested and destroyed thousands of valuable ash trees in the Midwest; and the prolific cane toads, which are fast supplanting native amphibians in Australia, excrete a toxin powerful enough to kill the animals, and some humans unfortunate enough to ingest them. Sidebars scattered throughout offer related information (e.g., the global ramifications of invasive species, career opportunities, etc.). Clear color photographs, most of which are close-ups, accompany the texts on about every other page. Each title also includes a world map, shaded to indicate the animals' natural geographical range and the invaded areas. Both titles are clearly written and well organized, and have up-to-date information. These solid introductions will be valuable resources for students doing reports on this serious, and growing, ecological problem.—Karey Wehner, formerly at San Francisco Public Library

Gr 3–6—Haas has culled from his experiences as a wildlife photographer for National Geographic and selected various vignettes about encounters with leopards, elephants, wild dogs, lions, hyenas, hippos, rhinos, and cheetahs. There are moments of drama and tension, awe and sadness in the first-person narratives. The author makes it clear that predators need to eat animals to survive, and he is obviously aware of his young audience. Although a buffalo herd kills a lion cub, the chapter ends with the information that its two siblings have survived and are safely rejoined with their mother. The writing is strong enough to stand on its own, but the photos steal the show. Close-ups allow youngsters to see the shadows in the eyes of a lion, a string of saliva in the mouth of a hyena, and a single purple dragonfly resting over the eye of a crocodile. Whether they are blurred to emphasize an animal's speed or sharp enough to count the whiskers on a mother cheetah, each photo or montage is a narrative on its own. On nearly every spread, a sidebar gives information about the species, and an insert at the beginning of the book describes the photographer's typical workday, hour by hour. Haas refers to the animals as "critters," generally considered a regional or slang term for "creatures," which may be jarring to some readers at first but will quickly be forgotten as the stories unfold. Each of the seven chapters would work as a read-aloud for an individual or group. Together they paint a fascinating picture of the work of a wildlife photographer.—Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA

Gr 6 Up—This crisply illustrated work aims to give aspiring cartoonists the basics of drawing as well as some of the trademark stylistic elements of the increasingly popular shojo style of romance manga. This work starts off with the basics of figure drawing, character design, and facial expressions for both female and male characters; special care is given to explain the details of creating those luminous eyes so popular in Japanese comics. Movement and perspective are given a brief explanation, and the chibi style of humorous facial expression is explained as well. Basics on creating costuming for characters (especially the famous schoolgirl uniform) are included; tips are also given for creating the popular "magical girl" characters à la Sailor Moon. The bishies of the title certainly aren't forgotten, and care is given to explain and depict some of the most common male characters. Advice on creating romantic and humorous scenarios, staging, and more essential elements of cartooning round off the work, along with a useful list of popular Japanese male and female names and some basic Japanese written characters commonly used in sound effects. Although not for advanced artists, this is nonetheless a wonderful introduction to the shojo style. A great first choice for creating a cartooning/drawing collection.—Dave Inabnitt, Brooklyn Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—In this well-written, accessible treatment, Hillstrom opens with a section placing the movement in its historical context. He then explores its beginnings; the literature, music, and art it produced; and the end of the period, with a look at its legacy through the present. Prominent figures from the Harlem Renaissance are featured in "Biographies," including Aaron Douglas, W.E.B. Du Bois, Duke Ellington, Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, James Weldon Johnson, Nella Larsen, Alain Locke, Paul Robeson, and Bessie Smith. The concluding section of "Primary Sources" sets this title apart from others on the subject, with selections ranging from an excerpt from Du Bois's The Souls of Black Folk to Langston Hughes's remembrance of the period from The Big Sea: An Autobiography, as well as selected poetry and accounts of the Savoy Ballroom and Apollo Theater. Other primary-source material is featured in sidebars, all well documented to lead students to additional research sources. Black-and-white photographs, a glossary of important people and places, and a detailed chronology with handy "see" references complete this well-organized volume. Use it with Cary D. Wintz's Harlem Speaks: A Living History of the Harlem Renaissance (Sourcebooks, 2006) and its audio CDs of primary-source material.—Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 4–7—Patrick and Phelps are popular, rising stars in their respective sports. Patrick is a determined and confident driver struggling to win a place in the male-dominated sport of auto racing. Phelps took home six gold medals from the 2004 Athens Summer Olympics and hopes to rewrite swimming's record books at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. These formulaic series entries, however, fail to give young fans a clear sense of their subjects' character and significant achievements. In both books, the writing is dense, uneven, and marred by signs of haste. Lackluster book design, color photos that vary in quality, and an absence of visual aids compound these books' problems.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 8 Up—This book combines biography, criticism, and an exploration of the role of censorship in literature and education. Readers may be familiar with the challenges against The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn for its racist language and demeaning portrayal of the runaway slave Jim, but they may be surprised to learn that Huckleberry Finn, along with its predecessor, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, was originally challenged during Twain's lifetime by those who were concerned that children would want to emulate the improper behavior of the main characters. Houle offers a brief history of censorship in literature in order to place Twain's case in context, and a history of the challenges and defenses of the author's work from his contemporaries and modern critics. Illustrations include color photographs of related modern scenes (such as one that shows book burning), reproductions of artwork from early editions of Twain's works, and period cartoons and photographs. A list of discussion questions is appended. More appropriate for literary criticism collections than for use as strict biography, this work will be useful for students looking to include more secondary source material in their critical essays.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

Gr 3 Up—This exciting alphabetic compendium began with a dictionary. Following years of study and work as a realistic painter, Johnson found himself wanting to explore abstract art. He started by collecting words for each letter of the alphabet. Then, he created a piece based on their meanings. For example, the caption for Dotty Diptych reads "Densely distributed dominoes, divided by dark and light dots on dual panels, disappear under drips of dramatically dashed paint dribbling downwards." Inside the white border of the page is the vivid reproduction of two wooden panels covered in dominoes. As with each of the 26 works of art, there is more to be discovered. Here, yellow and white paint covers some of the dominoes, transforming everyday game pieces into dimpled bricks. Also, Johnson has hidden a letter of the alphabet in most of his creations. The works vary from paintings and collages to sculptures to installations, and an index reveals the locations of the hidden letters as well as dimensions and materials for the pieces. Children will enjoy seeing everyday objects like candy used in his creations, and will no doubt be inspired to come up with some abstract art of their own. This book may easily spark discussions about what can be used to make art and who decides what it is. In an author's note, Johnson shares his thoughts on this matter. For more inspiration, see Joyce Raimondo's What's the Big Idea? Activities and Adventures in Abstract Art (Watson-Guptill, 2008).—Lisa Glasscock, Columbine Public Library, Littleton, CO

Gr 9 Up—Kuklin tells five stories here; four are about young men who committed murder before they reached the age of 18, and one is the story of a victim's family. Each narrative presents a picture of a troubled youth who did something he later regretted, but something that could not be undone. Within these deftly painted portraits, readers also see individuals who have grown beyond the adolescents who committed the crimes. They see compassion, remorse, and lives wasted within the penal system. Some of the stories tell of poverty and life on the streets, but others are stories of young men with strong, loving families. One even asks readers not to blame his family for his act of violence. Most of the book is written in the words of the men Kuklin interviewed. Their views are compelling; they are our neighbors, our nephews, our friends' children, familiar in many ways, but unknowable in others. Kuklin depicts the penal system as biased against men of color, and any set of statistics about incarceration and death-row conviction rates will back her up. She also emphasizes that being poor is damning once a crime is committed. She finally introduces Bryan Stevenson, a lawyer who has worked on the cases of two of the interviewees, who talks about his efforts to help those who are on death row. This powerful book should be explored and discussed in high schools all across our country.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

Gr 4–7—Landau employs an engaging format to involve readers in historical turning points. Students are asked to take on various roles, such as the governor of a Southern state, a Northern elected official, an abolitionist, and even President Lincoln himself, and then to consider what would happen if particular courses of action were followed. This personalized approach helps them understand varying perspectives and gain a fuller appreciation of why individuals made the choices they did. Because the book focuses on the Emancipation Proclamation, however, it does characterize the Civil War as being solely about slavery. Period photographs, including pictures of primary-source documents, and a colorful page layout add visual appeal. Used along with other sources to provide greater context, this title is an accessible and appealing introduction.—Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA

Gr 6–9—Winning his first piano competition in his native China at age five, Lang Lang had only one thought in mind from the beginning: to be "Number One." While his accolades have been many, his trials have been equally numerous, for he was forced to spend most of his childhood away from his kind and loving mother and under the ever-watchful eye of his strict father. He suffered tremendous homesickness and had to learn to cope with situations far beyond those normal for his chronological age in order to realize his dream of being an internationally known pianist on the classical circuit. This boy wonder explains his life as the pampered only child of parents who placed all of their hopes in him. His father definitely went over the edge, at one point even begging his 10-year-old son to overdose on pills because he had "lost face"—a part of the story that is sure to horrify readers. The book includes a glossary of Western composers with Lang Lang's personal commentary about their strengths and styles. Much like Li Cunxin's Mao's Last Dancer (Walker, 2008), this is the story of a young man determined to make something of himself, not only for his own sake, but also for the sake of his family. However, unlike the former, which places the personal story within the political context of Maoist China, Lang Lang is a totally personal tale. Nevertheless, because of the youthfulness of the author, his autobiography could serve as an additional purchase for libraries building modern-biography and/or Chinese-culture collections.—Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI

Gr 6 Up—Fry was a young American journalist working in pre-World War II Germany when he witnessed an anti-Semitic uprising led by storm troopers, and he was inspired, over 13 months of espionage and clandestine efforts during the war, to save people from impending annihilation. Back in New York City and following the French-German armistice in 1940 that provided Germany control over France, he realized that numerous renowned artists, writers, and scientists, both Jews and non-Jews, would be trapped under the Vichy government. Fry joined the newly formed Emergency Rescue Committee and volunteered to lead an escape mission for as many of these refugees as possible. His work began as a one-man operation in Marseilles and quickly grew to a fully staffed unit posing as a refugee center. Fry not only helped the famous and talented, but also many ordinary Jews to escape France through Spain and Portugal and then to ports beyond. McClafferty describes an exciting if not daring and altruistic episode in this righteous gentile's life. Numerous black-and-white photographs of the period and individuals who worked closely with Fry augment the readable and well-documented text. This is an intriguing look at how life completely changed for so many and how ingenuity and daring used by a few outwitted the enemy and saved lives.—Rita Soltan, Youth Services Consultant, West Bloomfield, MI

Gr 6–9—This evenhanded account, peppered with occasional photographs, discusses why the "Harry Potter" titles have created such controversies in communities and libraries across the country and in Europe. Yet, the disputes continue. For example, while Pope John Paul II said that the stories see the difference between good and evil, Pope Benedict XVI disagrees, arguing that the books "erode Christianity in the soul…"and go against the teachings of Catholicism. A short chapter is devoted to Rowling's life, but the real meat here is how the attempts to censor the books are dealt with. Each title in the series is summarized and explained. MacDonald tempers the complaints about Rowling's works with evidence of vast amounts of support and enthusiasm for them. One sidebar lists how parents and young people can counter a challenge. A section offering discussion questions is appended. Students are asked, "What is Wicca?" and "Do the Harry Potter books promote this religion?" The answers can be found in the text. Amy Sickels's Mythmaker: The Story of J. K. Rowling (Chelsea House, 2008) offers some of the same information, but doesn't delve as deeply into the challenges that the "Harry Potter" books have faced. Fine for reports and browsing.—Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 4–8—Impressive graphics take center stage in these titles. Sharp, hyper-realistic, larger-than-life drawings of one or more representative species are either set against a plain colored background or within a natural setting. Each title succinctly describes basic anatomy; physical and behavioral characteristics common to all the featured animals; some distinctive characteristics of dozens of species; diets; hunting and/or feeding habits; reproduction and life cycles; and relationship to humans. Both titles conclude with profiles of particular species—10 in Insects and 7 in Sharks. The dung beetle, housefly, bolas spider, and great white, bull, and cookie-cutter sharks are among the creatures included. Good companions to Laurence Mound's Insect (spiders are not included) and Miranda MacQuitty's Shark (both DK, 2004), which are broader "Eyewitness" introductions.—Karey Wehner, formerly at San Francisco Public Library

Gr 7 Up—This handy text reviews careers in solar, wind, geothermal, and hydroelectric energy, hydrogen energy and fuel cells, and nuclear energy as well as employment in green building, management, and transportation. The underlying theme—knowledge is power—aids in the common organization of each chapter, which begins with a brief factual introduction and explains career opportunities, salaries, and required education. A brief bibliography follows each chapter. A broad appendix includes a list of 50 schools where students can study for careers in renewable energy and Web sites for job listings, workshops, and professional organizations, as well as contact information for state energy offices. Illustrations and informative sidebars are scattered throughout. Edifying and accessible, this volume will be a welcome addition for career centers and environmental collections.—Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 6–9—In this excellent example of nonfiction that is at once dramatic and informative, Margulies and Rosaler examine five highly emotional court cases, each of which served as a litmus test for the health of America's justice system at the time it occurred. The seminal cases are presented chronologically, starting with the Salem witch trials and ending with the recent trials of Zacarias Moussaoui. In between are the Haymarket bomb trial, which hanged four anarchists based on flimsy evidence and a climate of panic, the Scopes "Monkey" trial, which raised questions about the teaching of evolution in schools, and the trials of Alger Hiss, which started the post-World War II hunt for Communist spies. Each chapter gives historical context of the court proceeding, describes its progression in some detail, and comments on the political and intellectual aftermath. The language is straightforward, with enough descriptive details to make it colorful and engaging reading. Illustrations, including photographs, arrest warrants, and other primary-source materials, break up the text nicely: almost every spread contains a relevant image and caption. During each case, fear and prejudice came up against justice and the limits of the law. In some instances, justice prevailed; in others it did not. The questions raised are worth pondering, and readers are challenged to consider what it means to be impartial and fair in the most charged and complex situations. A highly relevant and riveting book, this is an fine addition to any collection.—Emma Burkhart, formerly at the Windsor School, Boston, MA

Gr 3–6—Inside a bright and attractive cover is a short introduction and a "Choose your tools" chart of drawing instruments. Then there are more than a dozen different Egyptian symbols and pictures for budding artists to replicate. Masiello uses the method made popular by Lee J. Ames's "Draw 50…" series (Doubleday), starting with a basic shape and showing how details can be added one step at a time. He also includes extra suggestions for ambitious artists. Each finished picture is printed in full color and accompanied by a short paragraph that tells an interesting fact about the subject matter. Some of the drawings are quite complicated but they are broken down into manageable sections. For example, one spread shows how to draw the body of Isis, while the next shows how to draw the head. The complexity of some of the drawings may be intimidating to less-confident students, but most are doable for the target audience. Ting Morris's Arts and Crafts of Ancient Egypt (Smart Apple Media, 2006) has a variety of craft ideas and more background information than this offering, but it does not focus on drawing. Masiello's book is a great resource for ancient-civilizations units.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 5–8—River of Words is an organization that holds an art and poetry contest each year for children and teens. Winners of the competition over the past 12 years make up this substantial volume. The theme of the contest is "Watersheds," and most of the 250-plus poems deal with water in nature. Many different forms are represented, though the vast majority are free verse. The poets range in age from 5 to 18, and although the quality and sophistication of the selections varies with the age of the authors, the poems are honest expressions of the young peoples' ideas and emotions. The book is illustrated with a few full-color reproductions of pictures that were done by children who also took part in the competition. The artwork ranges in style from picturesque to abstract and is on the whole appealing and vibrant. This is a great anthology to inspire young poets to express themselves freely.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 3–8—More than 100 authors and illustrators contributed to this wide-ranging collection of short pieces about the First Family residence. Most participants are creators of books for youth, along with a sprinkling of other figures, such as historian David McCullough, and actual White House occupants. Arranged in general chronological order, the chapters are delightfully varied in form, tone, and subject matter. They include straightforward history, brief essays, personal narratives, and even fantasy, as in Meg Cabot's lighthearted time-travel story. The handsome layout and excellent-quality illustrations provide strong appeal. The pairing of words and art is often inspired, as in Maybelle Mayer's paper doll cutouts from 1938 that accompany Nancy Willard's poem about White House dresses. There are powerful visual moments as well, such as the dazzling series of spreads featuring visual interpretations of Roosevelt's "Four Freedoms," each by a different artist. Many segments convey personal details that humanize the presidential families, such as Virginia Euwer Wolff's introduction to the musical sophistication of the Tafts and Anita Silvey's look at Jackie Kennedy's literary career. Humor plays a role too, as in Steven Kellogg's artistic rendering of an imagined "Best in Show" contest among White House pets. Some readers will progress straight through from Jane Yolen's imagined conversation between John and Abigail Adams to the first National Book Festival in 2001, while others may browse and jump about; either way, this entertaining introduction to the White House is full of fascinating information, challenging ideas, and appealing artwork.—Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR

Gr 4–6—According to the source notes, many of these 22 selections are drawn from 19th-century collections. The assortment ranges from stories that utilize traditional folktale elements such as granted wishes, witches, and wizards to others featuring ghosts and corpses. "The Headless Horseman" (Ireland), "The Shaggy Gray Arm" (Iceland), "The Werewolf in the Forest" (Eastern Europe), and "The Ghost of the Rainbow Maiden" (Hawaii) are among the creepy entries. Gist's dark, smudgy illustrations may prove more frightening than the tales themselves. Give the book to fans of Alvin Schwartz's "Scary Stories" (HarperCollins).—Laurie Slagenwhite, Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MI

Gr 7 Up—Abridged and adapted from Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War (Penguin, 2007), this volume highlights both the Pilgrims' determination to find and settle a home where they could worship freely and the perilous journey that it took to make that happen. In accessible prose, the author shatters the American myth of the landing at Plymouth Rock and the first Thanksgiving, instead describing how the Pilgrims first landed on Cape Cod, finding only sandy soil and seemingly hostile, terrifying natives. They eventually moved on to the shores of Plymouth Bay, encountering a more hospitable environment for settlement. Using William Bradford's Of Plimoth Plantation as a primary source of information, Philbrick brings to life many of the major figures from history, including Miles Standish, Benjamin Church, Squanto, and William Bradford himself. The various maps, reproductions of historical documents, photographs of significant locations, and illustrations all come together with the text to help separate fact from legend and create a realistic, readable portrayal of the Pilgrims and their first 50 years in America. General readers and students of American history will find plenty to interest them, as many of the encounters with the Native Americans are of dubious intent and usually quite bloody, though Philbrick is careful not to lay blame on any one group or person. An excellent addition to history collections.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA

Gr 7 Up—Pablo Picasso couldn't sit still in class; Winston Churchill took the entrance exams to military school three times before he passed. Who would believe that one day they would be famous? This collection of biographical sketches introduces 26 figures in literature, art, science, and history, all of whom had "chaotic beginnings." Most are familiar to American students, though some, like Olympe de Gouges and François Truffaut, may be new. The chapters center on the subjects' early lives, though sidebars provide some context and explanation of their adult accomplishments. Some sections are written in first person: John Lennon's begins, "I am one of the Beatles. No, not Paul. The other one, John." Walt Disney's story is told by his cartoon characters. Bloch has altered existing paintings and photographs to add to the informal tone (for example, he has drawn a group of soldiers marching up Churchill's shoulders). The biographies are reminiscent of Kathleen Krull's Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (And What the Neighbors Thought) (Harcourt, 2005), though for more sophisticated readers. Unfortunately, the translation is awkward at times, and the creativity of the text (and lack of an index) limit the book's use for student research. However, the unusual format will attract readers, who will likely find it comforting to know that not everyone who becomes successful has an easy start.—Jackie Partch, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Gr 4–7—This book looks at stylistic movements in Western art from the birth of Naturalism during the Renaissance through the 20th century, ending with Op Art and Photorealism. Unfortunately, the conversational narrative and detailed observations that characterized Raczka's Here's Looking at Me (2006) and Where in the World? (2007, both Millbrook) are reduced to a minimum here—to the book's detriment. Instead, each style is profiled using a fixed set of questions, with the answers presented as lists, short paragraphs, and bullet points. The art chosen to illustrate each style is in some cases perfect—van Eyck's The Arnolfini Portrait illustrates Naturalism; in others, surprising—Courbet's The Stone Breakers is a little-seen painting that is nonetheless a fine choice to illustrate Realism. However, some selections miss the mark. Turner's Snow Storm is used as an example of the Romantic style, but unless viewers are familiar with Turner's other paintings, this one will appear more Impressionistic or even abstract. This title fills a gap, but most libraries would be better served by a more comprehensive art history book for young people, such as Antony Mason's A History of Western Art (Abrams, 2007) or Claudio Merlo's The History of Art (Peter Bedrick, 2000).—Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD

Gr 3–7—Through this photographic journal, readers are invited to share one year on an Ohio farm, complete with children, animals, and enough work, adventure, and fun to keep everyone busy. Keeping his commentary to a minimum, Rosen records conversations and comments made mostly by the young Bennetts. Their voices are strong and wise, revealing knowledge about life, death, hunting, reproduction, economics, and the importance of community and family. "If a cow dies, Dad scoops it up with a skid steer bucket and carries it over to the woods, far from the house, because it stinks for a while," 10-year-old Cayne observes matter-of-factly. "We always have a fort up in the hayloft, but…the cows eventually eat the whole fort" (Grey, age 8). "It [corralling cows] can be dangerous…" Chase (15) explains, "…but cows prefer to kick to the side; you're usually safe so long as you're straight behind them." Sensitive to the fact that some people might consider them "a bunch of farm hicks," Chase points out that his school "has scored among the top Ohio schools in the proficiency tests." More comprehensive than Raymond Bial's Portrait of a Farm Family (Houghton, 1995), this engaging book is an unsentimental, appreciative look into the world of one farm family. It's packed with information and plenty of interesting photographs. Children will love it.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

Gr 7–9—Most of the content in this update repeats what appears in the 2002 edition, including many of the high-quality photographs and at least one typo. Sickels discusses the plots of the "Harry Potter" novels and delves into Rowling's life story. The text concludes with extensive notes and lists of works by Rowling, popular Potter characters, major awards, and so on. This is similar to Joan Vos MacDonald's J. K. Rowling: Banned, Challenged, and Censored (Enslow, 2008). However, that title focuses more on why Rowling's books have been challenged in libraries, schools, and communities. An additional consideration at best, for libraries serving only the most ardent Potter fans.—Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 4–6—This is a pleasant introduction to the varied world of shark species, giving snippets on such critters as the ultra-tiny pygmy ribbontail catshark, the gigantic whale shark, the streamlined blue shark, and the frill wobbegong. In facing-page units, Smith covers such topics as physiology, pregnancy, and birth (no mention of mating), feeding techniques, migrations, and the long history of the shark family. (Yes, there is a spread on attacks.) A final section on "Sharks and People" looks at shark myths and tales, the problems of overfishing, and the need for conservation if these necessary predators can continue to survive. A plethora of photos plumps up the minimal text. Falling conveniently between Claire Llewellyn's easier The Best Book of Sharks (Kingfisher, 1999) and Miranda MacQuitty's more demanding Shark (DK, 2000), this volume will perk up your overfished 597.3's.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Gr 5–8—In a clear style, Stinson relates the life of the landscape architect. Inspired by her grandmother's garden, Oberlander decided upon her future career by age 11. By 1939, life for her Jewish family in Hitler's Germany had become so difficult that she and her family immigrated to America. Average-quality, black-and-white photographs (full-page and small) on nearly every spread provide a picture of her personal growth as a student, wife, and artist as she persevered in achieving her lifelong goals. Photographs of her various projects and models as well as her favorite plants are included, though some of the pictures lack adequate contrast. Reproductions of her drawings and environmentally innovative plans incorporating green roofs and the use of mounds are interspersed throughout. Vibrant and creative well into her 80s, Oberlander is an inspiring example of filling a life with what you love.—Frances E. Millhouser, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA

Gr 5–9—Young and Johnson provide a glimpse into America's political and social history through letters received and written by the presidents' wives. Images of original correspondences appear opposite narratives that provide accessible historical context. Additional drawings and photographs enhance the visual experience. The letters range in content from politically significant to personally insightful. Dolley Madison describes her famed 1814 flight from the White House during the War of 1812 and dramatic rescue of Washington's portrait to her sister. Queen Victoria comforts Mary Todd Lincoln after her husband's assassination. Jane Pierce writes elaborate messages to her dead son, revealing the fragility of her grief-stricken mind. Sometimes, the letters provide an opportunity to notice contradictions present in these famous women. Eleanor Roosevelt denounces the racial discrimination practiced by the Daughters of the American Revolution, and on the next page makes excuses for the policy of Japanese Internment. What emerges is not only a portrait of the privilege and power of these women, but also a palpable sense of their humanity. A few of the letters are neither politically nor personally significant and one wonders why they were included. The occasional triviality of the subject matter, as well as the book's lack of index, make it an enjoyable example of anecdotal history rather than a source for serious research. While the original documents give the book an appealing primary-source quality, the handwritten words are often hard to decipher. The authors provide transcriptions for selected letters at the back of the book. A vibrant, but not vital, addition to most collections.—Emma Burkhart, formerly at The Winsor School, Boston, MA