I am an avid reader, and when I first saw this project I was thrilled. I envisioned perusing my bookshelves, finding some of my teen favorites to start out with, and then heading to the library for more. Unfortunately, at least for this assignment, I've always been an avid reader, and I routinely read books well above my age level. By the start of high school I had left the YA section behind, unless I needed a quick read to tide me over for just an hour or two. Because of my advanced reading skills, I developed a rather skewed impression of just what most 15-18 year olds were reading. I was reading Mercedes Lackey, Piers Anthony, Tamora Pierce, Anne McCaffrey, and others. I was reading about love, loss, and magic, and I preferred my books good and long. In the absence of good and long, I would settle for part of a large series, such as the Animorphs, Seventh Tower, Nancy Drew, the Hardy Boys, and Everworld. While I liked a happy ending, I also loved a book that made me cry as the heroes tried to pick themselves up after their whole world collapsed around them. I particularly liked books where there was some sort of hidden magic that gave the main character some kind of freedom, a moment of beauty they could hold in their heart, something that could keep a spark of bittersweet joy alive inside of themselves, even as they grew up. I think I grew up too quickly, at least as far as my reading choices went. Many YA books do have this spark, this little bit of magic, and most have some sort of happy ending.
To start my project, I took a quick look at my bookshelf, and realized that I had no real idea just what a YA book actually was. From there I went to the Sacramento Public Library and asked the children's librarian for help. After a quick redirect to the YA specialist I spent the next hour finding thirty YA books in a variety of topics. I would have taken out more, but my card had a limit of thirty books. As a general rule, I was advised to look for books with a main character within my age range. In general, people like to read about people like themselves, and so a book will be written with main characters about the same age as the target audience. Of course, there are many exceptions, but this gives me a starting point. While I recognized some of the books, and even found a few I wanted to read but hadn't gotten around to, most of these books were strangers to me. I started my reading with City, a Smallville "could have been an episode" story, and ended with Magic's Pawn, a book that I read when I was a teen and that I still consider my favorite.
I have decided to include both brief non-spoiler teasers, as well as summaries that have extensive spoilers. Challenge issues are not things I found objectionable, or necessarily things I felt were grounds for a challenge. Rather, they are issues that might possibly offend some parents, and they are intended to be looked at more like rating warnings given for movies. Age recommendation is based on the youngest I'd feel comfortable recommending the book, not necessarily the age the book is aimed at. Just because there is nothing that would be too mature for a 12 year old does not mean the book was written for a 12 year old, or that a 12 year old would enjoy the book. A book I'd recommend for a 15 year old might be something that an advanced 13 year old could read and enjoy, but without talking to the 13 year old first to see where their reading interests were, I would not suggest that book first. In many cases, I have chosen to recommend books to an age where I think teens can handle them, not at the age parents would want their teens to read them.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
50. Magic's Pawn by Mercedes Lackey
Magic's Pawn by Mercedes Lackey
ISBN: 0886773520
DAW, New York, 1991
352 pages
Adult Crossover
Teaser: Sixteen year old Vanyel, firstborn son and heir apparent of the large Forst Reach hold, doesn't meet his father's expectations. In an attempt to teach him to be more manly, Vanyel is sent to stay with his Aunt Savil, one of the king's advisors. Will Vanyel become more than just another noble?
Summary: Vanyel may be the firstborn son and heir apparent of Forst Reach, a large holding, but he doesn't fit in at all. Smaller and slimmer than his sturdy father and brothers, Vanyel would much rather be a bard than a lord holder. Vanyel ends up being sent to the capitol, Haven, to stay with his Aunt Savil, in hopes that she will be able to force Vanyel to fit his father's ideas of manliness. This backfires rather spectacularly, as Vanyel ends up finding his soulmate, who happens to be one of Savil's male students, Tylendel. Unknown to even themselves, Vanyel and Tylendel form a lifebond, a tie between two soulmates that is so strong that one half rarely lives on if the other dies. Savil is supportive, and even helps the two keep their relationship a secret, as all of them know that Vanyel's father would be furious if he found out.
Vanyel's happiness is shattered when Tylendel's twin is murdered. Through the bond the twins shared, Tylendel felt his twin die, and the shock drives him a little mad. He becomes obsessed with revenge, and convinces Vanyel to help him. The plan goes horribly wrong, and Vanyel ends up having all of his latent magical gifts blasted open. The pain of his magic being awakened is quickly overwhelmed by an even greater agony when Tylendel snaps completely and commits suicide. The lifebond is shattered, and Vanyel attempts to follow Tylendel. His aunt and others stop him, and Savil takes Vanyel to a reclusive group of healers living outside the kingdom. Eventually, Vanyel realizes that Tylendel would want him to live, and that furthermore, he has a duty to use these new magical gifts to help people.
Evaluation: I first read this book in my freshman year of high school, and it remains my favorite book. Vanyel has lived a very sheltered life, and the thought of two boys falling in love is one that has never crossed his mind. Nearly a third of the way through the book Vanyel and readers alike discover that Vanyel is gay. The situation is dealt with very tastefully, with the most risqué moment being a candle getting snuffed out as a chapter ends and Savil later raising an eyebrow and remarking that there was no doubt of what had happened, but not actually elaborating. While Savil and her other two students are very supportive, the general public opinion is decidedly homophobic. When Vanyel nearly dies, his father is more upset about the rumors that his son is gay than the fact that his son nearly died. By the end of the book, Vanyel has realized that his magical gifts come with a responsibility to help others, and has decided to devote his life to doing so. The emotions are very well written, and I cried at several points during the story. This book was the first I read with a gay main character, and helped shape my opinion that love is love, regardless of gender.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The main character is homosexual, and suicide and attempted suicide are a major part of the story. Sexual themes are present, but there are absolutely no steamy scenes, not even mild kissing or petting. Some violence is also present. Death, loss, revenge, and healing and hope are major themes in this story. While I read this book when I was 13, it is an adult book rather than a teen book, and I was a fairly advanced reader. I would probably recommend it for teens 15 and up.
ISBN: 0886773520
DAW, New York, 1991
352 pages
Adult Crossover
Teaser: Sixteen year old Vanyel, firstborn son and heir apparent of the large Forst Reach hold, doesn't meet his father's expectations. In an attempt to teach him to be more manly, Vanyel is sent to stay with his Aunt Savil, one of the king's advisors. Will Vanyel become more than just another noble?
Summary: Vanyel may be the firstborn son and heir apparent of Forst Reach, a large holding, but he doesn't fit in at all. Smaller and slimmer than his sturdy father and brothers, Vanyel would much rather be a bard than a lord holder. Vanyel ends up being sent to the capitol, Haven, to stay with his Aunt Savil, in hopes that she will be able to force Vanyel to fit his father's ideas of manliness. This backfires rather spectacularly, as Vanyel ends up finding his soulmate, who happens to be one of Savil's male students, Tylendel. Unknown to even themselves, Vanyel and Tylendel form a lifebond, a tie between two soulmates that is so strong that one half rarely lives on if the other dies. Savil is supportive, and even helps the two keep their relationship a secret, as all of them know that Vanyel's father would be furious if he found out.
Vanyel's happiness is shattered when Tylendel's twin is murdered. Through the bond the twins shared, Tylendel felt his twin die, and the shock drives him a little mad. He becomes obsessed with revenge, and convinces Vanyel to help him. The plan goes horribly wrong, and Vanyel ends up having all of his latent magical gifts blasted open. The pain of his magic being awakened is quickly overwhelmed by an even greater agony when Tylendel snaps completely and commits suicide. The lifebond is shattered, and Vanyel attempts to follow Tylendel. His aunt and others stop him, and Savil takes Vanyel to a reclusive group of healers living outside the kingdom. Eventually, Vanyel realizes that Tylendel would want him to live, and that furthermore, he has a duty to use these new magical gifts to help people.
Evaluation: I first read this book in my freshman year of high school, and it remains my favorite book. Vanyel has lived a very sheltered life, and the thought of two boys falling in love is one that has never crossed his mind. Nearly a third of the way through the book Vanyel and readers alike discover that Vanyel is gay. The situation is dealt with very tastefully, with the most risqué moment being a candle getting snuffed out as a chapter ends and Savil later raising an eyebrow and remarking that there was no doubt of what had happened, but not actually elaborating. While Savil and her other two students are very supportive, the general public opinion is decidedly homophobic. When Vanyel nearly dies, his father is more upset about the rumors that his son is gay than the fact that his son nearly died. By the end of the book, Vanyel has realized that his magical gifts come with a responsibility to help others, and has decided to devote his life to doing so. The emotions are very well written, and I cried at several points during the story. This book was the first I read with a gay main character, and helped shape my opinion that love is love, regardless of gender.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The main character is homosexual, and suicide and attempted suicide are a major part of the story. Sexual themes are present, but there are absolutely no steamy scenes, not even mild kissing or petting. Some violence is also present. Death, loss, revenge, and healing and hope are major themes in this story. While I read this book when I was 13, it is an adult book rather than a teen book, and I was a fairly advanced reader. I would probably recommend it for teens 15 and up.
49. Gunslinger Girl by Yu Aida
Gunslinger Girl by Yu Aida
ISBN: 1413900208
ADV Manga, Houston, Texas, 2003
176 pages
Alternate Format: Manga
Teaser: The Social Welfare Agency "rescues" crippled, damaged little girls who have been orphaned or abandoned and provides expensive and miraculous cybernetic enhancements to restore their bodies. It isn't out of the goodness of their heart, however. No one will miss these little girls, and with a little brainwashing, they have the perfect tools for certain "special" tasks. Who would ever suspect a little girl as an assassin?
Summary: Henrietta survived the horrible attack that killed all six other members of her family. She is horribly traumatized, and badly injured. Giuseppe selects her to become his partner, and she receives the surgery that replaces her lost arm and leg, and enhances the rest of her body. She also receives a large dose of the conditioning agent, which erases all memory of her past and leaves her with a strange innocence. Henrietta is fiercely protective of her handler, Giuseppe, and utterly loyal.
There are several girls that have undergone this process, each with a handler of their own. Each chapter in this first volume focuses on a different girl, starting with Henrietta. Each girl has some past that brought her to the agency, and each handler has a different way of treating the cyborg girl he is in charge of. Henrietta is given a minimum of the brainwashing drug after her past was erased, and is treated like a little sister by Giuseppe. Rico was given very little of the brainwashing drug at the outset, so she still recalls her past. Her handler gives her fairly high maintenance doses however, which leaves Rico pliable and obedient, and he treats her as a tool. Triela's past is not revealed, but her past was erased at the outset, followed by low maintenance doses, which allows her somewhat snarky attitude to shine. Triela is the most "teen" of them, and her handler acts as her mentor and guardian.
Each girl gives another glimpse into the mindset of the main players in this story, as the girls and their handlers consider what it really means to be human.
Evaluation: The story of Gunslinger Girl focuses on what it means to be human, as the emotional innocence of the girls is juxtaposed against their bloody "jobs." This strange balance of innocence and cold killer is strangely compelling, and thoroughly enjoyable. The characters have a great deal of depth, and the emotions don't feel at all contrived. The manga format works well with this story, allowing the expressions of the characters to tell the story just as much as the words do. Readers should be prepared for frequent gunfights and quite a lot of mild gore, however. While the black ink blood is not terribly shocking when compared to the special effects full color blood seen on your average crime drama on television, there is still quite a lot of it, and fairly frequently. If you are looking for a good story about what it means to be human, and can take the gore and violence associated with the government-assassins-fighting-terrorists part of the plot, Gunslinger Girl is an excellent choice.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: This story is focused on little girls that are brainwashed, cybernetically enhanced, and used as assassins. Most of these girls were the victims of horrible crimes, and these and other crimes are not glossed over. There is quite a bit of violence and gore, but most of the gore is in the form of black and white blood spatter and bullet injuries, without any real detail. Due to the subject matter, violence and gore, I'm recommending this for readers 16 and up.
ISBN: 1413900208
ADV Manga, Houston, Texas, 2003
176 pages
Alternate Format: Manga
Teaser: The Social Welfare Agency "rescues" crippled, damaged little girls who have been orphaned or abandoned and provides expensive and miraculous cybernetic enhancements to restore their bodies. It isn't out of the goodness of their heart, however. No one will miss these little girls, and with a little brainwashing, they have the perfect tools for certain "special" tasks. Who would ever suspect a little girl as an assassin?
Summary: Henrietta survived the horrible attack that killed all six other members of her family. She is horribly traumatized, and badly injured. Giuseppe selects her to become his partner, and she receives the surgery that replaces her lost arm and leg, and enhances the rest of her body. She also receives a large dose of the conditioning agent, which erases all memory of her past and leaves her with a strange innocence. Henrietta is fiercely protective of her handler, Giuseppe, and utterly loyal.
There are several girls that have undergone this process, each with a handler of their own. Each chapter in this first volume focuses on a different girl, starting with Henrietta. Each girl has some past that brought her to the agency, and each handler has a different way of treating the cyborg girl he is in charge of. Henrietta is given a minimum of the brainwashing drug after her past was erased, and is treated like a little sister by Giuseppe. Rico was given very little of the brainwashing drug at the outset, so she still recalls her past. Her handler gives her fairly high maintenance doses however, which leaves Rico pliable and obedient, and he treats her as a tool. Triela's past is not revealed, but her past was erased at the outset, followed by low maintenance doses, which allows her somewhat snarky attitude to shine. Triela is the most "teen" of them, and her handler acts as her mentor and guardian.
Each girl gives another glimpse into the mindset of the main players in this story, as the girls and their handlers consider what it really means to be human.
Evaluation: The story of Gunslinger Girl focuses on what it means to be human, as the emotional innocence of the girls is juxtaposed against their bloody "jobs." This strange balance of innocence and cold killer is strangely compelling, and thoroughly enjoyable. The characters have a great deal of depth, and the emotions don't feel at all contrived. The manga format works well with this story, allowing the expressions of the characters to tell the story just as much as the words do. Readers should be prepared for frequent gunfights and quite a lot of mild gore, however. While the black ink blood is not terribly shocking when compared to the special effects full color blood seen on your average crime drama on television, there is still quite a lot of it, and fairly frequently. If you are looking for a good story about what it means to be human, and can take the gore and violence associated with the government-assassins-fighting-terrorists part of the plot, Gunslinger Girl is an excellent choice.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: This story is focused on little girls that are brainwashed, cybernetically enhanced, and used as assassins. Most of these girls were the victims of horrible crimes, and these and other crimes are not glossed over. There is quite a bit of violence and gore, but most of the gore is in the form of black and white blood spatter and bullet injuries, without any real detail. Due to the subject matter, violence and gore, I'm recommending this for readers 16 and up.
48. Prom by Laurie Halse Anderson
Prom by Laurie Halse Anderson
ISBN: 0670059749
Viking Juvenile, New York, 2005
224 pages
Teaser: When the money for prom is stolen by a teacher, students scramble to find a way to have their prom.
Summary: Ashley may not care about the prom, but she is in the minority. When a teacher steals the money that was going to pay for prom, she steps up to help her friends make sure the prom will still happen. This story is set in an inner city high school, things like sex, drugs, drinking, and even Ashley's plan to move in with her boyfriend after graduation, are just part of life. During the course of the story Ashley and other teens work to make prom happen, and eventually succeed. Funny and fun to read, this is an interesting take on a not quite Cinderella story.
Evaluation: I liked this book. The tone felt real, like a teen from a huge family, with a steady if not stellar boyfriend, and a distinct lack of respect for authority was telling the tale. Ashley seems like the stereotypical disinterested teen with no real future. She works at a pizza place where she wears a rat costume, has a dropout boyfriend, and has no real plans for the future other than moving out of her crowded home to live with her boyfriend. By the end of the book she has moved beyond the apathetic rut she was in, dumped her loser boyfriend, and is attending a community college. I don't have any major complaints about this book. Some secondary characters were a little underdeveloped, but honestly, some people are a little underdeveloped, so I didn't find myself too bothered by the shallower characters. It was a quick and easy read, but it delivered laughs and its message well. Despite the gritty details, this book was very funny overall, and ended on a hopeful but realistic note.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Sex, drugs, and underage alcohol consumption are all talked about with a kind of blunt nonchalance in this book. Despite this, nothing was too shocking or graphic, so I would recommend this book for ages 12 and up.
ISBN: 0670059749
Viking Juvenile, New York, 2005
224 pages
Teaser: When the money for prom is stolen by a teacher, students scramble to find a way to have their prom.
Summary: Ashley may not care about the prom, but she is in the minority. When a teacher steals the money that was going to pay for prom, she steps up to help her friends make sure the prom will still happen. This story is set in an inner city high school, things like sex, drugs, drinking, and even Ashley's plan to move in with her boyfriend after graduation, are just part of life. During the course of the story Ashley and other teens work to make prom happen, and eventually succeed. Funny and fun to read, this is an interesting take on a not quite Cinderella story.
Evaluation: I liked this book. The tone felt real, like a teen from a huge family, with a steady if not stellar boyfriend, and a distinct lack of respect for authority was telling the tale. Ashley seems like the stereotypical disinterested teen with no real future. She works at a pizza place where she wears a rat costume, has a dropout boyfriend, and has no real plans for the future other than moving out of her crowded home to live with her boyfriend. By the end of the book she has moved beyond the apathetic rut she was in, dumped her loser boyfriend, and is attending a community college. I don't have any major complaints about this book. Some secondary characters were a little underdeveloped, but honestly, some people are a little underdeveloped, so I didn't find myself too bothered by the shallower characters. It was a quick and easy read, but it delivered laughs and its message well. Despite the gritty details, this book was very funny overall, and ended on a hopeful but realistic note.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Sex, drugs, and underage alcohol consumption are all talked about with a kind of blunt nonchalance in this book. Despite this, nothing was too shocking or graphic, so I would recommend this book for ages 12 and up.
47. Sucks to be Me by Kimberly Pauley
Sucks to be Me by Kimberly Pauley
ISBN: 0786950285
Mirrorstone, New York, 2008
293 pages
Teaser: Sixteen year old Mina's parents are vampires, and the time has come for Mina to decide if she will become a vampire as well.
Summary: Almost 17 year old Mina has to decide if she wants to become a vampire like her parents, or stay a human. Mina wavers back and forth, trying to decide if she really wants to take the plunge. Meanwhile, she is trying to work out her feelings for several boys, do well in her classes, and figure out what she is going to do for prom. This is a light, fluffy read for vampire fans.
Evaluation: This book was a fun, light read, but it wasn't really to my taste. I liked how it was different from the dark, broody vampire books, but it just didn't seem to have a good enough foundation for me to really believe the author's premise. I was constantly reminding myself to just go with it, and ignore the various things that felt underdeveloped, shallow, or just plain illogical. I didn't feel like there was any real moral message or purpose to the story, the conflicts felt a bit too straight forward, and it just didn't feel like something I could sink my teeth into.
The fact that any secret vampire society would not only encourage, but require, teens who found out about vampires to become one while still a teenager, struck me as a major plot hole. While the book discussed the need to move every decade or so to avoid detection, this would only work for older vampires. For a 16 year old, the longest they could realistically expect to stay put would be three years, at the outside. Careful work with makeup, clothing, and hairstyles might be able to fool people into not realizing that a teenager hasn't changed much for a few years, but the rapid changes teenagers go through will work against her. MC has essentially chosen to continually repeat high school for the rest of her foreseeable future. In addition, while Mina is almost 17, the girl on the cover looks much younger, like a preteen rather than a teen. This feeling of Mina being younger than 17 was also present in the book. While the author claims Mina is just shy of 17, Mina's voice sounds more like a preteen than a high school girl.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Vampires are the main topic in this book, which may draw protests. Things like drinking blood are mentioned, which should be expected with vampires, but there is no stalking of humans in order to drink their blood. There isn't really much else I could really think of as too offensive. I'd okay this book for readers 12 and up.
ISBN: 0786950285
Mirrorstone, New York, 2008
293 pages
Teaser: Sixteen year old Mina's parents are vampires, and the time has come for Mina to decide if she will become a vampire as well.
Summary: Almost 17 year old Mina has to decide if she wants to become a vampire like her parents, or stay a human. Mina wavers back and forth, trying to decide if she really wants to take the plunge. Meanwhile, she is trying to work out her feelings for several boys, do well in her classes, and figure out what she is going to do for prom. This is a light, fluffy read for vampire fans.
Evaluation: This book was a fun, light read, but it wasn't really to my taste. I liked how it was different from the dark, broody vampire books, but it just didn't seem to have a good enough foundation for me to really believe the author's premise. I was constantly reminding myself to just go with it, and ignore the various things that felt underdeveloped, shallow, or just plain illogical. I didn't feel like there was any real moral message or purpose to the story, the conflicts felt a bit too straight forward, and it just didn't feel like something I could sink my teeth into.
The fact that any secret vampire society would not only encourage, but require, teens who found out about vampires to become one while still a teenager, struck me as a major plot hole. While the book discussed the need to move every decade or so to avoid detection, this would only work for older vampires. For a 16 year old, the longest they could realistically expect to stay put would be three years, at the outside. Careful work with makeup, clothing, and hairstyles might be able to fool people into not realizing that a teenager hasn't changed much for a few years, but the rapid changes teenagers go through will work against her. MC has essentially chosen to continually repeat high school for the rest of her foreseeable future. In addition, while Mina is almost 17, the girl on the cover looks much younger, like a preteen rather than a teen. This feeling of Mina being younger than 17 was also present in the book. While the author claims Mina is just shy of 17, Mina's voice sounds more like a preteen than a high school girl.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Vampires are the main topic in this book, which may draw protests. Things like drinking blood are mentioned, which should be expected with vampires, but there is no stalking of humans in order to drink their blood. There isn't really much else I could really think of as too offensive. I'd okay this book for readers 12 and up.
46. The Bar Code Tattoo by Suzanne Weyn
The Bar Code Tattoo by Suzanne Weyn
ISBN: 0429395623
Point Thriller, New York, 2004
250 pages
Teaser: What would you do if the law required you to have a barcode tattooed on your wrist containing all of your financial, medical, and genetic information?
Summary: Kayla's life is crumbling around her. Though she is a talented artist, she has been told that no art school will accept her due to her poor computer skills. This is only the tip of the iceberg. The barcode tattoo is the biggest thing, and all 17 year olds, are getting it. The barcode contains all of your financial information, identification, and even your medical insurance. With a barcode you don't need to carry cards, everything is just a swipe of your arm away. Kayla thinks the barcode is creepy, and has no plans to get one after her birthday. Then Kayla's father commits suicide, and her mother blames the tattoo. As Kayla looks for the truth, she discovers that the barcode tattoo contains more than just your identification, medical insurance, and financial information. It also contains a breakdown of your genetic code, and those with undesirable traits or predispositions to illnesses are suddenly fired from their jobs, turned down for loans, and their barcode credit no longer valid at stores. As Kayla delves into the secrets contained within the barcode, a law is passed making it mandatory for all people over 17 to have the barcode tattoo. Kayla's mother snaps, and in an attempt to burn off her own tattoo, sets their house on fire. While Kayla survives, her mother does not. Fearful of being forced to get the barcode tattoo, Kayla goes on the run. Eventually she ends up in the Adirondack mountains with a group of others who do not wish to get the barcode tattoo. The book ends with Kayla resolving to stop hiding and fight against the barcode tattoo.
Evaluation: Creepy and surreal, this book shows a chilling future that we could easily slide into. At the same time, genetics, cloning, and genetic manipulation are much more advanced in this book than they currently are. In the book the US still bans cloning, but a mention of clones in other countries turning 17 indicates that human cloning is possible in this book, and has been for nearly twenty years. Genetic splicing is also briefly mentioned. The action is gripping and fast paced, making it hard to put down this book.
Unfortunately, the characters are a little shallow, and at more than one point I was a little skeptical of some of the situations, events, or science. Legislation also moves too rapidly to be believable, but that can be overlooked as a possible futuristic change. The Bar Code Tattoo also ends without any major resolution of the key issues, but as this is the first of two books, that isn't really a problem. It does set up a solid foundation for the second book, and leaves readers wanting to find the next book to see what happens.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Cloning may be a controversial issue for some, and while it is only briefly mentioned in this volume, it is a major part of the sequel. Suicide and self-mutilation are frequently mentioned in the book, as a number of people become suicidal, paranoid, and mentally ill after receiving the tattoo, or attempt to remove the tattoo by burning it off or using acid to eat away the tattoo. Mentions of violence are also present. Overall, the book is no more explicit than the evening news, and I think that it would be appropriate for anyone 12 and up.
ISBN: 0429395623
Point Thriller, New York, 2004
250 pages
Teaser: What would you do if the law required you to have a barcode tattooed on your wrist containing all of your financial, medical, and genetic information?
Summary: Kayla's life is crumbling around her. Though she is a talented artist, she has been told that no art school will accept her due to her poor computer skills. This is only the tip of the iceberg. The barcode tattoo is the biggest thing, and all 17 year olds, are getting it. The barcode contains all of your financial information, identification, and even your medical insurance. With a barcode you don't need to carry cards, everything is just a swipe of your arm away. Kayla thinks the barcode is creepy, and has no plans to get one after her birthday. Then Kayla's father commits suicide, and her mother blames the tattoo. As Kayla looks for the truth, she discovers that the barcode tattoo contains more than just your identification, medical insurance, and financial information. It also contains a breakdown of your genetic code, and those with undesirable traits or predispositions to illnesses are suddenly fired from their jobs, turned down for loans, and their barcode credit no longer valid at stores. As Kayla delves into the secrets contained within the barcode, a law is passed making it mandatory for all people over 17 to have the barcode tattoo. Kayla's mother snaps, and in an attempt to burn off her own tattoo, sets their house on fire. While Kayla survives, her mother does not. Fearful of being forced to get the barcode tattoo, Kayla goes on the run. Eventually she ends up in the Adirondack mountains with a group of others who do not wish to get the barcode tattoo. The book ends with Kayla resolving to stop hiding and fight against the barcode tattoo.
Evaluation: Creepy and surreal, this book shows a chilling future that we could easily slide into. At the same time, genetics, cloning, and genetic manipulation are much more advanced in this book than they currently are. In the book the US still bans cloning, but a mention of clones in other countries turning 17 indicates that human cloning is possible in this book, and has been for nearly twenty years. Genetic splicing is also briefly mentioned. The action is gripping and fast paced, making it hard to put down this book.
Unfortunately, the characters are a little shallow, and at more than one point I was a little skeptical of some of the situations, events, or science. Legislation also moves too rapidly to be believable, but that can be overlooked as a possible futuristic change. The Bar Code Tattoo also ends without any major resolution of the key issues, but as this is the first of two books, that isn't really a problem. It does set up a solid foundation for the second book, and leaves readers wanting to find the next book to see what happens.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Cloning may be a controversial issue for some, and while it is only briefly mentioned in this volume, it is a major part of the sequel. Suicide and self-mutilation are frequently mentioned in the book, as a number of people become suicidal, paranoid, and mentally ill after receiving the tattoo, or attempt to remove the tattoo by burning it off or using acid to eat away the tattoo. Mentions of violence are also present. Overall, the book is no more explicit than the evening news, and I think that it would be appropriate for anyone 12 and up.
45. Terrier by Tamora Pierce
Terrier by Tamora Pierce
ISBN: 978-0375814686
Random House Books for Young Readers, New York, 2006
592 pages
Teaser: Sixteen year old Beka Cooper is a "puppy," a trainee in the law-enforcing Provost's Guard. In her diary she records her adventures and misadventures as she works to bring some measure of justice to the slums she grew up in.
Summary: Beka Cooper grew up in one of the worst slums in Corus, the capital city of Tortall. At age eight, she provides a tip to the Lord Provost, head of the Provost's Guard, that leads to the capture of a nasty gang of aggressive thieves. Impressed by her backbone and intelligence, the lord tracks Beka down and discovers her mother is dying. The lord decides to adopt Beka and her family into his household and provides for the children after the mother passes away. At 16, Beka has joined the guard herself, and is starting her first year. Guards are often referred to as "the Provost's Dogs," and a whole slew of canine slang has developed around this. New trainees, like Beka, are "puppies."
In her first year, Beka must deal not only with the normal thieves, rogues, drunks, and murderers, but also with two serial killers preying on the people in her district. As if that weren't enough, Beka can also hear more than other people can. When Beka claims her information came from a "birdie," she isn't using the dog slang for informant. The ghosts of the dead travel to the afterlife on the backs of pigeons, and Beka can hear them before they complete the journey. Dust spinners also catch voices that only Beka can hear, though only the voices of the living, carried on the wind. Pounce, Beka's cat, is also unusual, able to make himself understood with human words, though he only speaks to Beka. No matter how difficult the job seems, or how crazy her life gets, Beka is determined to catch the killers stalking the poor in her district.
Evaluation: I loved this look into the history of Tamora Pierce's well-established Tortall universe. Terrier is set in the "past" of Tortall, focusing on the six times great grandmother of the king of thieves in Tortall's "present day." Three brief journal entries from various characters lay out the base information for the story, followed by Beka's diary. Beka is an intelligent, determined young woman learning how to uphold the law in a city where the law enforcement field is still developing.
I like the way Pierce takes the time to create a glossary and character list. The developing state of the law enforcement field is explained, as are terms and slang readers might not understand. Major characters have a brief bio as well, so that readers can keep track of the large cast of characters. Beka's entry reads "Rebakah Cooper: "Beka," Puppy, Evening Watch, Jane Street kennel, training Dogs Goodwin and Tunstall, sixteen years old." While readers can pick up all of the info in the back section in the story itself, it is nice to see the extra effort. These details can also help slower readers, who might forget some things over the course of reading the book.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Crime and magic form the base for this fantasy tale. With the journal format, the crime and violence is a bit less intense than other book formats, while the suspense and adventure remain fully intact. I'd recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
ISBN: 978-0375814686
Random House Books for Young Readers, New York, 2006
592 pages
Teaser: Sixteen year old Beka Cooper is a "puppy," a trainee in the law-enforcing Provost's Guard. In her diary she records her adventures and misadventures as she works to bring some measure of justice to the slums she grew up in.
Summary: Beka Cooper grew up in one of the worst slums in Corus, the capital city of Tortall. At age eight, she provides a tip to the Lord Provost, head of the Provost's Guard, that leads to the capture of a nasty gang of aggressive thieves. Impressed by her backbone and intelligence, the lord tracks Beka down and discovers her mother is dying. The lord decides to adopt Beka and her family into his household and provides for the children after the mother passes away. At 16, Beka has joined the guard herself, and is starting her first year. Guards are often referred to as "the Provost's Dogs," and a whole slew of canine slang has developed around this. New trainees, like Beka, are "puppies."
In her first year, Beka must deal not only with the normal thieves, rogues, drunks, and murderers, but also with two serial killers preying on the people in her district. As if that weren't enough, Beka can also hear more than other people can. When Beka claims her information came from a "birdie," she isn't using the dog slang for informant. The ghosts of the dead travel to the afterlife on the backs of pigeons, and Beka can hear them before they complete the journey. Dust spinners also catch voices that only Beka can hear, though only the voices of the living, carried on the wind. Pounce, Beka's cat, is also unusual, able to make himself understood with human words, though he only speaks to Beka. No matter how difficult the job seems, or how crazy her life gets, Beka is determined to catch the killers stalking the poor in her district.
Evaluation: I loved this look into the history of Tamora Pierce's well-established Tortall universe. Terrier is set in the "past" of Tortall, focusing on the six times great grandmother of the king of thieves in Tortall's "present day." Three brief journal entries from various characters lay out the base information for the story, followed by Beka's diary. Beka is an intelligent, determined young woman learning how to uphold the law in a city where the law enforcement field is still developing.
I like the way Pierce takes the time to create a glossary and character list. The developing state of the law enforcement field is explained, as are terms and slang readers might not understand. Major characters have a brief bio as well, so that readers can keep track of the large cast of characters. Beka's entry reads "Rebakah Cooper: "Beka," Puppy, Evening Watch, Jane Street kennel, training Dogs Goodwin and Tunstall, sixteen years old." While readers can pick up all of the info in the back section in the story itself, it is nice to see the extra effort. These details can also help slower readers, who might forget some things over the course of reading the book.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Crime and magic form the base for this fantasy tale. With the journal format, the crime and violence is a bit less intense than other book formats, while the suspense and adventure remain fully intact. I'd recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
44. Ties That Bind, Ties That Break by Lensey Namioka
Ties That Bind, Ties That Break by Lensey Namioka
ISBN: 0440415993
Laurel Leaf, New York, 2000
160 pages
Teaser: Ailin is a wealthy Chinese girl in 1911 who refuses to allow her feet to be bound. With the support of her father, she is successful in avoiding this painful fate, but her future is threatened when her father dies.
Summary: In 1911 China was beginning to accept modern ideas, though some were faster to adapt than others. Ailin is horrified when her grandmother tells her it is time to bind her feet into the tiny, deformed shape that wealthy girls are expected to have. Ailin manages to convince her father to allow her feet to remain unbound. Additionally, her father allows her to go to school, an unusual privilege for a girl of that time. Ailin's life is turned upside down when her father dies and her more traditional Uncle becomes head of the family. Uncle stops allowing Ailin to go to school, and gives her the choice of marrying a peasant or becoming a nun, as no man of higher status would marry a girl with unbound feet. Ailin rejects these choices, and finds a third option.
Evaluation: I liked the details about China's culture that were presented in this book. Ailin was a very strong willed girl during a time when that was not usually encouraged, so it was interesting seeing how others reacted to her. The characters were well written, and the story felt well researched.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Foot binding and arranged marriages are both a large part of this story. Ailin's courage and strength, along with the numerous details about China during the early 1900s make this an excellent historical fiction book for readers interested in this era. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
ISBN: 0440415993
Laurel Leaf, New York, 2000
160 pages
Teaser: Ailin is a wealthy Chinese girl in 1911 who refuses to allow her feet to be bound. With the support of her father, she is successful in avoiding this painful fate, but her future is threatened when her father dies.
Summary: In 1911 China was beginning to accept modern ideas, though some were faster to adapt than others. Ailin is horrified when her grandmother tells her it is time to bind her feet into the tiny, deformed shape that wealthy girls are expected to have. Ailin manages to convince her father to allow her feet to remain unbound. Additionally, her father allows her to go to school, an unusual privilege for a girl of that time. Ailin's life is turned upside down when her father dies and her more traditional Uncle becomes head of the family. Uncle stops allowing Ailin to go to school, and gives her the choice of marrying a peasant or becoming a nun, as no man of higher status would marry a girl with unbound feet. Ailin rejects these choices, and finds a third option.
Evaluation: I liked the details about China's culture that were presented in this book. Ailin was a very strong willed girl during a time when that was not usually encouraged, so it was interesting seeing how others reacted to her. The characters were well written, and the story felt well researched.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Foot binding and arranged marriages are both a large part of this story. Ailin's courage and strength, along with the numerous details about China during the early 1900s make this an excellent historical fiction book for readers interested in this era. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
43. The Devouring by Simon Holt
The Devouring by Simon Holt
ISBN: 0316035734
Little, Brown, New York, 2008
231 pages
Teaser: Reggie loves horror books any mystery. When she “borrows” a used book she becomes entwined in a world of dark, smoke like creatures, the Voirs, that possess humans and bond them to the dark side of their world. Only those strong enough to fight the forces and fight will survive.
Summary: Reggie had no idea that her fascination with reading horror books would threaten her brother’s life and reunite her with a figure of their dead mother. Reggie and her friend Aaron are strong enough to believe in good and fight the influence of the evil presence, but her younger brother, Henry becomes victim to the shadows and is almost lost when he falls through the ice on a frozen lake. Reggie finds the strength to bring Aaron out of the dark side, bringing them closer together and helping them with the loss of their mother. Reggie had never thought that another source, Eben, would understand what they have been through and help them pull out at the last minute and get Aaron to the hospital in time. Had Eben also been to the dark side?
Evaluation: I thought this was a very good book and it gave me chills reading it at night. I wanted to stop, but couldn’t until the entire book was read. I loved the way the book gave me a thrilling read, but also nightmares! I don’t usually like horror books, but love mysteries and it was a great combination and a reach for me that I am glad I took.
Challenges issues and age recommendation: The occult, loss of a parent, good versus evil, sibling rivalry, and love are all major topic in this book. The reading was easy, but the content challenging to envision and ponder, long after the book was done. I would recommend it to readers of horror and mystery books. There are others in the series and I look forward to trying some of them, in the daylight of course. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
ISBN: 0316035734
Little, Brown, New York, 2008
231 pages
Teaser: Reggie loves horror books any mystery. When she “borrows” a used book she becomes entwined in a world of dark, smoke like creatures, the Voirs, that possess humans and bond them to the dark side of their world. Only those strong enough to fight the forces and fight will survive.
Summary: Reggie had no idea that her fascination with reading horror books would threaten her brother’s life and reunite her with a figure of their dead mother. Reggie and her friend Aaron are strong enough to believe in good and fight the influence of the evil presence, but her younger brother, Henry becomes victim to the shadows and is almost lost when he falls through the ice on a frozen lake. Reggie finds the strength to bring Aaron out of the dark side, bringing them closer together and helping them with the loss of their mother. Reggie had never thought that another source, Eben, would understand what they have been through and help them pull out at the last minute and get Aaron to the hospital in time. Had Eben also been to the dark side?
Evaluation: I thought this was a very good book and it gave me chills reading it at night. I wanted to stop, but couldn’t until the entire book was read. I loved the way the book gave me a thrilling read, but also nightmares! I don’t usually like horror books, but love mysteries and it was a great combination and a reach for me that I am glad I took.
Challenges issues and age recommendation: The occult, loss of a parent, good versus evil, sibling rivalry, and love are all major topic in this book. The reading was easy, but the content challenging to envision and ponder, long after the book was done. I would recommend it to readers of horror and mystery books. There are others in the series and I look forward to trying some of them, in the daylight of course. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
42. My Mother the Cheerleader by Robert Sharenow
My Mother the Cheerleader by Robert Sharenow
ISBN: 9780061148965
Harper Teen, New York, 2007
289 pages
Teaser: The book explores the early 1960’s segregation in schools and the students and their parents, or “cheerleaders” who expressed their views on the integration of blacks into public schools.
Summary: The book explores the struggles of the young black children and white parents who were forced to deal with the introduction of blacks into public white schools. The children were much more accepting of the black students, while the parents grouped and heckled the poor black students just trying to get an education and lay low in their surroundings. The book explores friendships; bias and acceptance that will make you want to cry. Looking back it was not too many years ago that such beliefs existed and the cruelty of the participants was very surreal.
Evaluation: I found the book fairly predictable if you know your New Orleans history and the segregation movement. It was touching in the portrayal of both students and parents during these challenging times. The book would pair well with teaching the Civil Rights movement in schools and also deals with group violence, alcoholism and abandonment of ideals and possessions. I thought the portrayal of the struggles was very nicely done, as well as probably very accurate and simply laid out for both sides of the segregation struggle to understand.
Challenges issues and age recommendation: The segregation struggle, violence and torment that the individuals dealt with during these times may be hard to read about for some younger readers. The shadows are still apparent today in not only racial issues, but poverty and inner struggles as well. It was an easy read, but again dealt with some offensive material and discussion of the materials would add greatly to the book, such as in a school educational setting. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
ISBN: 9780061148965
Harper Teen, New York, 2007
289 pages
Teaser: The book explores the early 1960’s segregation in schools and the students and their parents, or “cheerleaders” who expressed their views on the integration of blacks into public schools.
Summary: The book explores the struggles of the young black children and white parents who were forced to deal with the introduction of blacks into public white schools. The children were much more accepting of the black students, while the parents grouped and heckled the poor black students just trying to get an education and lay low in their surroundings. The book explores friendships; bias and acceptance that will make you want to cry. Looking back it was not too many years ago that such beliefs existed and the cruelty of the participants was very surreal.
Evaluation: I found the book fairly predictable if you know your New Orleans history and the segregation movement. It was touching in the portrayal of both students and parents during these challenging times. The book would pair well with teaching the Civil Rights movement in schools and also deals with group violence, alcoholism and abandonment of ideals and possessions. I thought the portrayal of the struggles was very nicely done, as well as probably very accurate and simply laid out for both sides of the segregation struggle to understand.
Challenges issues and age recommendation: The segregation struggle, violence and torment that the individuals dealt with during these times may be hard to read about for some younger readers. The shadows are still apparent today in not only racial issues, but poverty and inner struggles as well. It was an easy read, but again dealt with some offensive material and discussion of the materials would add greatly to the book, such as in a school educational setting. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
41. Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse
Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse
ISBN: 0811202925
New Directions, New York ,1957
122 pages
Teaser: Siddhartha gives up success to explore Buddha and the trek to happiness, to find that happiness is within each individual and came for him through a combination of simplicity and goals to meet his inner peace.
Summary: The journey for Siddhartha leads him down paths of love and struggles for power and wealth, then to the struggles with his own son in finding peace and inner strength. Siddhartha finds that was he thought would be an easy path, turned into twists and turns and forks in the road that caused an internal tug of war to balance the true meaning of self-knowledge.
Evaluation: I thought the book was okay, but for me not great. It explored the constant change and flux in society, as well as in the personal exploration of individuals to both fit in, and to find a way out of the box. The relationships between love and family were brief and I think could have been explored further and given the reader more to ponder. It was too short for me and I would have liked to see more of a challenging read, but maybe good for younger readers.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: This book discussed Buddhist beliefs. Like any book featuring religion as a main topic, some people may feel the need to challenge the book because of this. Overall, the book was not really a religious book, but a book about inner beliefs and what individual strengths and goals are to happiness. It does deal with the father/son relationship and finding true love, but also in just the attempt to balance the world and inner desire to seek balance. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up. It would also be good for a western studies class or history class boost with discussion to follow.
ISBN: 0811202925
New Directions, New York ,1957
122 pages
Teaser: Siddhartha gives up success to explore Buddha and the trek to happiness, to find that happiness is within each individual and came for him through a combination of simplicity and goals to meet his inner peace.
Summary: The journey for Siddhartha leads him down paths of love and struggles for power and wealth, then to the struggles with his own son in finding peace and inner strength. Siddhartha finds that was he thought would be an easy path, turned into twists and turns and forks in the road that caused an internal tug of war to balance the true meaning of self-knowledge.
Evaluation: I thought the book was okay, but for me not great. It explored the constant change and flux in society, as well as in the personal exploration of individuals to both fit in, and to find a way out of the box. The relationships between love and family were brief and I think could have been explored further and given the reader more to ponder. It was too short for me and I would have liked to see more of a challenging read, but maybe good for younger readers.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: This book discussed Buddhist beliefs. Like any book featuring religion as a main topic, some people may feel the need to challenge the book because of this. Overall, the book was not really a religious book, but a book about inner beliefs and what individual strengths and goals are to happiness. It does deal with the father/son relationship and finding true love, but also in just the attempt to balance the world and inner desire to seek balance. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up. It would also be good for a western studies class or history class boost with discussion to follow.
40. Shadows on the Sea by Joan Hiatt Harlow
Shadows on the Sea by Joan Hiatt Harlow
ISBN: 0689849265
Simon & Schuster, New York, 2003
237 pages
Teaser: During WW II, Jill Winters was a young teenager when she was sent to live with her grandmother, as her uncle Cliff was dying. It was in Maine that she discovered her grandmother may be communicating with the Germans by carrier pigeon.
Summary: Jill reluctantly went to live with her grandmother, as her father traveled for his job as a singer and performer. Her mother went to the nurse her dying brother and the German’s were getting closer and closer to American submarines off the shore of Maine. Jill was worried for her family and the secrets she thought her grandmother was keeping from her. Despite the depression, her grandmother’s boarding Inn was flourishing and Jill was treated to things she knew they could not afford. The day she rescued an injured carrier pigeon with a message in German, she knew that there was more to her grandmother’s Sunday secret meetings and the town folks that she could have ever imagined. With the help of a local boy, they uncovered what the messages meant and who was sending and receiving them.
Evaluation: I thought this was a good read. It would appeal to a wide variety of young readers and kept interest going throughout the book with twists and turns. Based during WW II, it still managed to keep a flow that anyone could understand and showed the desire that teens have to compete, put each other down and to bond in unusual ways. I liked the variety of characters and flow between the multiple plots going on at the same time. The local snobbish girls club was a positive factor in turning Jill to the local outcasts, including a boy who helped her read the German message tied to the injured carrier Pigeon’s leg, only to send them hiding for their lives. It was written simply and made the reader feel familiar with the era, despite not living in that time. The underlying tones were that of trust, friendships and family values.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book dealt with genocide, racism, sabotage and betrayal of county. It may also be hard to follow for someone not at all familiar with history or religious persecution. I would recommend this book for late elementary school through junior high school. It was a bit simplistic for a higher grade level, although it could be used in conjunction with historical periods and for discussion purposes at a higher grade level.
ISBN: 0689849265
Simon & Schuster, New York, 2003
237 pages
Teaser: During WW II, Jill Winters was a young teenager when she was sent to live with her grandmother, as her uncle Cliff was dying. It was in Maine that she discovered her grandmother may be communicating with the Germans by carrier pigeon.
Summary: Jill reluctantly went to live with her grandmother, as her father traveled for his job as a singer and performer. Her mother went to the nurse her dying brother and the German’s were getting closer and closer to American submarines off the shore of Maine. Jill was worried for her family and the secrets she thought her grandmother was keeping from her. Despite the depression, her grandmother’s boarding Inn was flourishing and Jill was treated to things she knew they could not afford. The day she rescued an injured carrier pigeon with a message in German, she knew that there was more to her grandmother’s Sunday secret meetings and the town folks that she could have ever imagined. With the help of a local boy, they uncovered what the messages meant and who was sending and receiving them.
Evaluation: I thought this was a good read. It would appeal to a wide variety of young readers and kept interest going throughout the book with twists and turns. Based during WW II, it still managed to keep a flow that anyone could understand and showed the desire that teens have to compete, put each other down and to bond in unusual ways. I liked the variety of characters and flow between the multiple plots going on at the same time. The local snobbish girls club was a positive factor in turning Jill to the local outcasts, including a boy who helped her read the German message tied to the injured carrier Pigeon’s leg, only to send them hiding for their lives. It was written simply and made the reader feel familiar with the era, despite not living in that time. The underlying tones were that of trust, friendships and family values.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book dealt with genocide, racism, sabotage and betrayal of county. It may also be hard to follow for someone not at all familiar with history or religious persecution. I would recommend this book for late elementary school through junior high school. It was a bit simplistic for a higher grade level, although it could be used in conjunction with historical periods and for discussion purposes at a higher grade level.
39. Both Sides of Time by Caroline B. Cooney
Both Sides of Time by Caroline B. Cooney
ISBN: 0385321740
Random House Children’s Books, New York, 1995
210 pages
Teaser: Annie longs for her mechanic boyfriend to be more romantic and attentive to her and while waiting for him to restore a truck, “falls” back in time 100 years into a romantic triangle, just like her father is having in her current time.
Summary: Annie is a dreamer, who wants Sean to be romantic, thoughtful and attentive to her, not his truck. When she goes to the old Stratton Mansion, about to be demolished, she falls back in time to a romantic period where she is waited on and catches the eye of a true gentleman, who sweeps her off her feet. The catch is that he is already married, but that doesn’t seem to stop either from falling for each other. Annie compares her dream relationship to the real relationship that her father is having and finds herself falling into yet another era, older than the first. With each fall, she loses someone she loves and needs and can’t seem to find her way back to what she wants or reality.
Evaluation: I found the first “fall” to be okay, perhaps a dream that she was having while bored and waiting for her boyfriend to finish working on his precious truck. The fall may have been triggered from the recent discovery that her father was having an affair. The descriptions of the past and her journey were detailed and romantic, until she falls again to an even older era. I find the second fall to be a bit much and seems to symbolize that Annie is losing touch with reality and slipping into a deeper search for what she wants and getting farther and farther away. In her dreams, Annie finds the finer things in life and fewer responsibilities, but in reality, she wants the challenges of doing for herself and fighting for what she believes in. Plots of murder follow each fall and Annie becomes involved in defending the accused. Annie finally comes to believe in hard work, like her mother and working for her own money. The book ends with Annie opening her eyes to see where she will be next.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book suggests that Annie would kill for what she wants. In her “fall” her beau also says he will have his way with her to taint her and then she will have to marry him. Younger readers might be at risk of believing that these values are justified and following such actions. I would recommend this book for readers 14 and up.
ISBN: 0385321740
Random House Children’s Books, New York, 1995
210 pages
Teaser: Annie longs for her mechanic boyfriend to be more romantic and attentive to her and while waiting for him to restore a truck, “falls” back in time 100 years into a romantic triangle, just like her father is having in her current time.
Summary: Annie is a dreamer, who wants Sean to be romantic, thoughtful and attentive to her, not his truck. When she goes to the old Stratton Mansion, about to be demolished, she falls back in time to a romantic period where she is waited on and catches the eye of a true gentleman, who sweeps her off her feet. The catch is that he is already married, but that doesn’t seem to stop either from falling for each other. Annie compares her dream relationship to the real relationship that her father is having and finds herself falling into yet another era, older than the first. With each fall, she loses someone she loves and needs and can’t seem to find her way back to what she wants or reality.
Evaluation: I found the first “fall” to be okay, perhaps a dream that she was having while bored and waiting for her boyfriend to finish working on his precious truck. The fall may have been triggered from the recent discovery that her father was having an affair. The descriptions of the past and her journey were detailed and romantic, until she falls again to an even older era. I find the second fall to be a bit much and seems to symbolize that Annie is losing touch with reality and slipping into a deeper search for what she wants and getting farther and farther away. In her dreams, Annie finds the finer things in life and fewer responsibilities, but in reality, she wants the challenges of doing for herself and fighting for what she believes in. Plots of murder follow each fall and Annie becomes involved in defending the accused. Annie finally comes to believe in hard work, like her mother and working for her own money. The book ends with Annie opening her eyes to see where she will be next.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book suggests that Annie would kill for what she wants. In her “fall” her beau also says he will have his way with her to taint her and then she will have to marry him. Younger readers might be at risk of believing that these values are justified and following such actions. I would recommend this book for readers 14 and up.
38. Vampire High by Douglas Rees
Vampire High by Douglas Rees
ISBN: 044023834
Random House Children’s Books, New York, 2003
226 pages
Teaser: After failing out of the local public school, Cody enrolls in a private magnet school, soon to find out most of his classmates are vampires.
Summary: It starts out with Cody failing all of his classes for not even turning in his homework or showing up to class. Cody was not adjusting to the recent move and his parents blamed each other that they hadn’t stayed back in California. His parents debate between a Catholic School and Vlad Dracul, where a friend’s daughter attends. Cody quickly finds out that water polo is the only period that he even need try. He soon finds out that his tall, pale classmates are nearly all vampires, who hate water as much as they hate the daylight. If playing water polo keeps him passing his classes and parents happy, Cody will be happy to play. Cody soon falls for a vampire princess and how to manipulate his teachers into straight A’s. Finally Cody take helps from Justin in return for saving his life and begins to try in his classes and starts earning real grades. Justin encourages Cody to try and the value of earning real grade earns him the respect of girls and his teachers.
Evaluation: I liked the book for its humor, building friendships and use of strategy. Cody comes in as a dumb kid who can’t even turn in his homework, to the one who saves the school. I found the flow of the book to keep you interested. It had a bit of excitement, romance, bullies, twists and turns. It was a good read and there are more in the series as Cody grows up and moves along.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: It deals with cheating, cutting corners and romance that may not be for everyone. Cody also talks about wanting to kill himself and life not being worth living as her ponders becoming a vampire himself. I would recommend this book for readers 10 and up. If you like vampire type genre, you will like this series and its content.
ISBN: 044023834
Random House Children’s Books, New York, 2003
226 pages
Teaser: After failing out of the local public school, Cody enrolls in a private magnet school, soon to find out most of his classmates are vampires.
Summary: It starts out with Cody failing all of his classes for not even turning in his homework or showing up to class. Cody was not adjusting to the recent move and his parents blamed each other that they hadn’t stayed back in California. His parents debate between a Catholic School and Vlad Dracul, where a friend’s daughter attends. Cody quickly finds out that water polo is the only period that he even need try. He soon finds out that his tall, pale classmates are nearly all vampires, who hate water as much as they hate the daylight. If playing water polo keeps him passing his classes and parents happy, Cody will be happy to play. Cody soon falls for a vampire princess and how to manipulate his teachers into straight A’s. Finally Cody take helps from Justin in return for saving his life and begins to try in his classes and starts earning real grades. Justin encourages Cody to try and the value of earning real grade earns him the respect of girls and his teachers.
Evaluation: I liked the book for its humor, building friendships and use of strategy. Cody comes in as a dumb kid who can’t even turn in his homework, to the one who saves the school. I found the flow of the book to keep you interested. It had a bit of excitement, romance, bullies, twists and turns. It was a good read and there are more in the series as Cody grows up and moves along.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: It deals with cheating, cutting corners and romance that may not be for everyone. Cody also talks about wanting to kill himself and life not being worth living as her ponders becoming a vampire himself. I would recommend this book for readers 10 and up. If you like vampire type genre, you will like this series and its content.
37. Book of Fred by Abby Bardi
Book of Fred by Abby Bardi
ISBN: 100743411943
Washington Square Press, New York, 2002
320 pages
Teaser: Mary is 15 years old and sent to a foster home after her parents are charged with second-degree murder in the neglectful death of their son when they do not believe in the medical treatment and he dies.
Summary: Mary has had little schooling in a homelike setting and knows little of the outside world or the evils that it holds. She is placed in a home with a single mother, who is a well schooled and world knowing librarian. The mother seems to be the only person who is willing to acknowledge Mary’s cult like faith and beliefs, although not approving of them. She has a daughter, Heather, who introduces Mary to the likes of television, modern high school, boys, cults and the fast lane. There is also a son, Roy, who scams in every way he can to buy heroin, impress girls and live in the fast lane. Heather turns from a TV junkie with days filled sit coms and reality shows to actually sitting down at the table to eat and talking. The household becomes organized and caring for each other. Roy is teetering on the edge about to fall off. School antics bring a near death experience that is an eye opener to most of the students and faculty of the school. Mary eventually returns home to her family with new insights to introduce to her family, in hopes that they will be accepting of the outside world, as they were of her.
Evaluation: I like the book very much. With historical and modern day events classing with the simplistic lives of cult like societies, it shows that acceptance of the unknown is good if you take it slow and try to understand and not jump to conclusions. I felt that I could be the mother with understanding of both worlds.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Cult life, drugs, relationship issues, TV impressionism, sex and language. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
ISBN: 100743411943
Washington Square Press, New York, 2002
320 pages
Teaser: Mary is 15 years old and sent to a foster home after her parents are charged with second-degree murder in the neglectful death of their son when they do not believe in the medical treatment and he dies.
Summary: Mary has had little schooling in a homelike setting and knows little of the outside world or the evils that it holds. She is placed in a home with a single mother, who is a well schooled and world knowing librarian. The mother seems to be the only person who is willing to acknowledge Mary’s cult like faith and beliefs, although not approving of them. She has a daughter, Heather, who introduces Mary to the likes of television, modern high school, boys, cults and the fast lane. There is also a son, Roy, who scams in every way he can to buy heroin, impress girls and live in the fast lane. Heather turns from a TV junkie with days filled sit coms and reality shows to actually sitting down at the table to eat and talking. The household becomes organized and caring for each other. Roy is teetering on the edge about to fall off. School antics bring a near death experience that is an eye opener to most of the students and faculty of the school. Mary eventually returns home to her family with new insights to introduce to her family, in hopes that they will be accepting of the outside world, as they were of her.
Evaluation: I like the book very much. With historical and modern day events classing with the simplistic lives of cult like societies, it shows that acceptance of the unknown is good if you take it slow and try to understand and not jump to conclusions. I felt that I could be the mother with understanding of both worlds.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Cult life, drugs, relationship issues, TV impressionism, sex and language. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
36. Bluford High: Secrets in the Shadows by Anne Schraff
Bluford High: Secrets in the Shadows by Anne Schraff
ISBN: 0439904854
Scholastic, New York, 2007
126 pages
Teaser: Roylin Bailey was a young, impressionable young man in a poor neighborhood. He longed for a better way of life and when the girl of his dreams walked into his classroom, he had his sights set on making her his girl.
Summary: The setting is in a poor, black neighborhood where the kids struggled to stay in school, keep out of trouble and the only way out was often through selling drugs and stealing. Roylin wanted to fit in and impress a new girl, who seemed to like him for being himself. Roylin finds the cost of temptation devastating when his elderly friend dies after he steals money from him. He then finds it is his heart to enjoy friendships with his older relatives and teachers. In turn, those around him see him as a better, more caring person who they want to be closer to as well.
Evaluation: I liked this book for a pre-teen audience. It was simple, with morals and real life situations where choices reflect on many people, not just the one committing the acts. I would recommend the series for teaching life values and simple relationship examples between the changing characters beginning high school. The series deals with drugs, stealing, gang involvement and situations that some pre-teens may not have experienced, but allows them to see consequences and the value of proper decisions. The series also reflects attitudes of family, friends and conflicts of pre-teen and early teenagers and how they deal with them. I like this series for the morals and the ease of reading. The series is ongoing, but changes characters and settings to keep the interest of the readers.
Challenges issues and age recommendation: Poverty, stealing, and drug use are all major themes in this book. I would recommend this book to readers 12 and up. If the series were longer and written with more street language, swearing or more detail into sexual settings, I would up the recommendation to high school. The author appears to have toned it down for a younger audience intentionally.
ISBN: 0439904854
Scholastic, New York, 2007
126 pages
Teaser: Roylin Bailey was a young, impressionable young man in a poor neighborhood. He longed for a better way of life and when the girl of his dreams walked into his classroom, he had his sights set on making her his girl.
Summary: The setting is in a poor, black neighborhood where the kids struggled to stay in school, keep out of trouble and the only way out was often through selling drugs and stealing. Roylin wanted to fit in and impress a new girl, who seemed to like him for being himself. Roylin finds the cost of temptation devastating when his elderly friend dies after he steals money from him. He then finds it is his heart to enjoy friendships with his older relatives and teachers. In turn, those around him see him as a better, more caring person who they want to be closer to as well.
Evaluation: I liked this book for a pre-teen audience. It was simple, with morals and real life situations where choices reflect on many people, not just the one committing the acts. I would recommend the series for teaching life values and simple relationship examples between the changing characters beginning high school. The series deals with drugs, stealing, gang involvement and situations that some pre-teens may not have experienced, but allows them to see consequences and the value of proper decisions. The series also reflects attitudes of family, friends and conflicts of pre-teen and early teenagers and how they deal with them. I like this series for the morals and the ease of reading. The series is ongoing, but changes characters and settings to keep the interest of the readers.
Challenges issues and age recommendation: Poverty, stealing, and drug use are all major themes in this book. I would recommend this book to readers 12 and up. If the series were longer and written with more street language, swearing or more detail into sexual settings, I would up the recommendation to high school. The author appears to have toned it down for a younger audience intentionally.
35. Montmorency and the Assassins by Eleanor Updale
Montmorency and the Assassins by Eleanor Updale
ISBN: 0439683432
Scholastic Books, New York, 2006
404 pages
Teaser: The book starts out as an adventure, as the last two books in the series had, set in late 1800’s Europe, as assassin Montmorency fights for his life in a hospital. He is surrounded by his friend and confident, Lord George Fox-Selwyn.
Summary: Montmorency and Lord George Fox-Selwyn criss-cross Europe as assassin for hire. They appear to place little of the decisions on the morality of the kill, but on the price of the job. There is however the impression that they do evaluate the more global affects of their actions, but appear to be easily swayed for their assignments by the party paying. The reflection of the consequences comes only after the completion of the job, while recovering from their injuries or in reflection of how close they themselves came to death. Montmorency enjoys spending his wealth from his jobs and his appearance in social society as mysterious and regal and not to be questioned. I found Montmorency to be quite the story teller and that it would be inviting to be at one of his castle like settings sipping wine and caviar. Nothing cheap in public, in sharp contrast to living in the swells while on assignment.
Evaluation: I found this book to be a disappointment over the last two in the series. It was written as if someone from the outside had picked up the first two books and created an adventure from a different prospective. It just didn’t seem to be the same author at all. I also found the chapters to be very short and lacking details of what could have been very flavorful and descriptive to someone who had no knowledge of European culture and countryside.
I found the book to have some good mystery and adventure, but the predictable details of assassinations, bombings and bodies falling were superficial and lacked the sense of bonding and relationships between the characters in the last two books.
Overall, I did find it a good book and in short chapters for those who may not stay focused to longer plots or grasping the books setting in the late 1800’s and some old English language. It did bring a sense of closeness between the main characters as friends, as well as the fear of the loss of family members and threats against them from retaliation in the book. The loss of a dear friend in the end was a shock and a heavy blow to Montmorency and I could see his revenge being strong and prompt.
Challenges issues and age recommendation: The book does contain some graphic descriptions of war, old battle wounds and operations in less than desirable locations. The ending of the book was a bit of a cliff hanger that would lead the reader to want to pick up the next book, but was also strange and detailed in the oddity of purpose of the presentation. Action/adventure fans would enjoy this book, although it is a longer book with a slower pace than the last two books. I would recommend this book for a well experienced 7th grader and up.
ISBN: 0439683432
Scholastic Books, New York, 2006
404 pages
Teaser: The book starts out as an adventure, as the last two books in the series had, set in late 1800’s Europe, as assassin Montmorency fights for his life in a hospital. He is surrounded by his friend and confident, Lord George Fox-Selwyn.
Summary: Montmorency and Lord George Fox-Selwyn criss-cross Europe as assassin for hire. They appear to place little of the decisions on the morality of the kill, but on the price of the job. There is however the impression that they do evaluate the more global affects of their actions, but appear to be easily swayed for their assignments by the party paying. The reflection of the consequences comes only after the completion of the job, while recovering from their injuries or in reflection of how close they themselves came to death. Montmorency enjoys spending his wealth from his jobs and his appearance in social society as mysterious and regal and not to be questioned. I found Montmorency to be quite the story teller and that it would be inviting to be at one of his castle like settings sipping wine and caviar. Nothing cheap in public, in sharp contrast to living in the swells while on assignment.
Evaluation: I found this book to be a disappointment over the last two in the series. It was written as if someone from the outside had picked up the first two books and created an adventure from a different prospective. It just didn’t seem to be the same author at all. I also found the chapters to be very short and lacking details of what could have been very flavorful and descriptive to someone who had no knowledge of European culture and countryside.
I found the book to have some good mystery and adventure, but the predictable details of assassinations, bombings and bodies falling were superficial and lacked the sense of bonding and relationships between the characters in the last two books.
Overall, I did find it a good book and in short chapters for those who may not stay focused to longer plots or grasping the books setting in the late 1800’s and some old English language. It did bring a sense of closeness between the main characters as friends, as well as the fear of the loss of family members and threats against them from retaliation in the book. The loss of a dear friend in the end was a shock and a heavy blow to Montmorency and I could see his revenge being strong and prompt.
Challenges issues and age recommendation: The book does contain some graphic descriptions of war, old battle wounds and operations in less than desirable locations. The ending of the book was a bit of a cliff hanger that would lead the reader to want to pick up the next book, but was also strange and detailed in the oddity of purpose of the presentation. Action/adventure fans would enjoy this book, although it is a longer book with a slower pace than the last two books. I would recommend this book for a well experienced 7th grader and up.
34. Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
ISBN: 9780061431838
Harper Teen, New York, 2008
419 pages
Teaser: Seventeen year old Taylor Markham finds life within the boarding school walls as safe, protected and regimented, until contact from old friends in the neighborhood of abandonment she has tried so hard to forget at age eleven by her mother. Memories of an auto accident and other tragedies dot the memories of Taylor’s past. Challenges of life beyond school and social expectations are tempted when a relationship develops from a contact from her past.
Summary: Taylor was abandoned by her mother at a pre-teen time in her life where she had once felt her dysfunctional life was normal and getting by was easy. Now in a structured Catholic boarding school environment with a higher education and expectations, her past tugs at her as she falls in love and deals with the challenges of what awaits outside the protection of her daily existence.
Adding to the plot, Taylor’s mother suddenly becomes ill and possibly severely depressed as a weakness that Taylor does not want to acknowledge and is also fearful of, as maybe hereditary. Taylor ponders the decision about building a bond with the mother who abandoned her or choosing to walk away and help herself, ignoring her possible future fate. Add in the temptations of delinquent residents and the lure of boys, Taylor has her world torn upside down.
Evaluation: I like the way Taylor deals with the decisions torn by her vague memories of the past and what she embodies and her vision for her faint memories and old friendships from her old neighborhood and actions that led her to her current placement and ultimately her future. I feel Taylor’s journey explores the possibly of mental illness, societies tolerance for standards of children and the strict environment of a religious boarding school for outcast girls.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Death and dying, abandonment, mental health issues and temptations faced by those growing up were all issues in this book. This book would suit older teens for its content of budding boy/girl relationships and boundaries between good and evil. It may be a difficult book for those who are not raised by a biological parent or extended family members. It may also be difficult for children dealing with depression, mental illness or abandonment issues in their past or present lives. The book setting is a Catholic boarding school, but does not delve into religious matter per say, but does deal with making right choices and saying no to situations, such as relationships that may be moving too fast. The character is also very mature and in a leadership role and may not represent the average teenager in a romantic situation. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
ISBN: 9780061431838
Harper Teen, New York, 2008
419 pages
Teaser: Seventeen year old Taylor Markham finds life within the boarding school walls as safe, protected and regimented, until contact from old friends in the neighborhood of abandonment she has tried so hard to forget at age eleven by her mother. Memories of an auto accident and other tragedies dot the memories of Taylor’s past. Challenges of life beyond school and social expectations are tempted when a relationship develops from a contact from her past.
Summary: Taylor was abandoned by her mother at a pre-teen time in her life where she had once felt her dysfunctional life was normal and getting by was easy. Now in a structured Catholic boarding school environment with a higher education and expectations, her past tugs at her as she falls in love and deals with the challenges of what awaits outside the protection of her daily existence.
Adding to the plot, Taylor’s mother suddenly becomes ill and possibly severely depressed as a weakness that Taylor does not want to acknowledge and is also fearful of, as maybe hereditary. Taylor ponders the decision about building a bond with the mother who abandoned her or choosing to walk away and help herself, ignoring her possible future fate. Add in the temptations of delinquent residents and the lure of boys, Taylor has her world torn upside down.
Evaluation: I like the way Taylor deals with the decisions torn by her vague memories of the past and what she embodies and her vision for her faint memories and old friendships from her old neighborhood and actions that led her to her current placement and ultimately her future. I feel Taylor’s journey explores the possibly of mental illness, societies tolerance for standards of children and the strict environment of a religious boarding school for outcast girls.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Death and dying, abandonment, mental health issues and temptations faced by those growing up were all issues in this book. This book would suit older teens for its content of budding boy/girl relationships and boundaries between good and evil. It may be a difficult book for those who are not raised by a biological parent or extended family members. It may also be difficult for children dealing with depression, mental illness or abandonment issues in their past or present lives. The book setting is a Catholic boarding school, but does not delve into religious matter per say, but does deal with making right choices and saying no to situations, such as relationships that may be moving too fast. The character is also very mature and in a leadership role and may not represent the average teenager in a romantic situation. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
33. Lyddie by Katherine Paterson
Lyddie by Katherine Paterson
ISBN: 0140373896
Puffin, New York, 2005
192 pages
Teaser: When times get hard, Lyddie does her part to support the family, going to work in a textile mill during the industrial revolution.
Summary: When Lyddie's father abandons their family, Lyddie goes to work in a cloth factory in Lowell, Massachusetts during the industrial revolution. At first, her job is challenging, but doable. As time goes on, conditions worsen and the girls working in the cloth factory are forced to work increasingly long hours, operating more looms, and receive less pay for their work. Eventually, Lyddie finds a way to break free from the oppressive factory.
Evaluation: Lyddie was an enjoyable read, and it was a great way to get a glimpse into history. Lyddie seemed a bit too mature for her age, but in difficult times, this can be understood. The historical details are very true to the time period, making this a good choice for those looking for a fun way to understand some of the aspects related to the factory workers of the industrial revolution.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Factory conditions, religion, and threatening situations are present in this book. I would suggest that readers be at least 10, but older readers may be able to get a bit more out of the book.
ISBN: 0140373896
Puffin, New York, 2005
192 pages
Teaser: When times get hard, Lyddie does her part to support the family, going to work in a textile mill during the industrial revolution.
Summary: When Lyddie's father abandons their family, Lyddie goes to work in a cloth factory in Lowell, Massachusetts during the industrial revolution. At first, her job is challenging, but doable. As time goes on, conditions worsen and the girls working in the cloth factory are forced to work increasingly long hours, operating more looms, and receive less pay for their work. Eventually, Lyddie finds a way to break free from the oppressive factory.
Evaluation: Lyddie was an enjoyable read, and it was a great way to get a glimpse into history. Lyddie seemed a bit too mature for her age, but in difficult times, this can be understood. The historical details are very true to the time period, making this a good choice for those looking for a fun way to understand some of the aspects related to the factory workers of the industrial revolution.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Factory conditions, religion, and threatening situations are present in this book. I would suggest that readers be at least 10, but older readers may be able to get a bit more out of the book.
32. Fire in the Mist by Holly Lisle
Fire in the Mist by Holly Lisle
ISBN:0671721321
Baen, New York, 1992
291 pages
Adult Crossover
Teaser: Faia is a simple country girl with talent for simple country magic. Then, while she is away watching the sheep, her whole village falls to illness. Unable to bury so many dead, Fiai calls magefire to turn the entire town into a funeral pyre, a magical working that catches the attention of the mage university. With her village gone, Faia and her magical gifts apparently much stronger than she realized, Faia joins the mage university and begins learning to harness her magic.
Summary: Faia has long been able to use simple charms to keep her flock of sheep safe from wolves and other predators. However, when her village is destroyed by a deadly Plague carried in by a traveling merchant, Faia can do nothing but ensure that the scavengers will not desecrate the bodies of her loved ones and neighbors. She intends to call magefire to burn the village, but ends up calling a fire so strong that even the stone foundations of the houses melt. This burst of energy catches the attention of the mage's university, who end up bringing Faia to their school to learn about her magic. Faia, a country peasant, does not fit in at this university. She does not understand the sharp divide between the males with magic, Sages, and the females with magic, Mages, and she is far too willing to point out stupidity when she sees it. However, greater troubles than Faia's social status loom. Amid the magic of winged horses and cats with hands, something is calling women away to their deaths. Will Faia be able to keep from being devoured by the evil power that is awakening?
Evaluation: An adult crossover, this book would nonetheless appeal to advanced teen fantasy readers. The clashes between men and women, country barbarians and city scholars, and the struggle of good versus evil create several fronts for Faia to struggle against. With her practical bluntness, Faia does not censor her opinions about stupidity or the, to her, needless mysticism surrounding magic. The discrepancy between Faia's opinions and those of her city-born roommate are fascinating, and help to emphasize the difference in their worldviews. The quirky cat with hands is a hilarious side story, as the curious feline discovers all the wonderful things that opposable thumbs allow him to get into, much to his creator's dismay. I enjoyed reading this book, and look forward to reading the next in the series.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: As this book was written for adult, it has somewhat stronger themes than some teen books. Gender segregation, magic, murder, references to sex, violence, mild gore, and the start of a war are some of the possibly objectionable subjects in this book. Despite this, I think the story shines and would be an enjoyable book for advanced readers. I would recommend this book for fantasy readers age 16 and up.
ISBN:0671721321
Baen, New York, 1992
291 pages
Adult Crossover
Teaser: Faia is a simple country girl with talent for simple country magic. Then, while she is away watching the sheep, her whole village falls to illness. Unable to bury so many dead, Fiai calls magefire to turn the entire town into a funeral pyre, a magical working that catches the attention of the mage university. With her village gone, Faia and her magical gifts apparently much stronger than she realized, Faia joins the mage university and begins learning to harness her magic.
Summary: Faia has long been able to use simple charms to keep her flock of sheep safe from wolves and other predators. However, when her village is destroyed by a deadly Plague carried in by a traveling merchant, Faia can do nothing but ensure that the scavengers will not desecrate the bodies of her loved ones and neighbors. She intends to call magefire to burn the village, but ends up calling a fire so strong that even the stone foundations of the houses melt. This burst of energy catches the attention of the mage's university, who end up bringing Faia to their school to learn about her magic. Faia, a country peasant, does not fit in at this university. She does not understand the sharp divide between the males with magic, Sages, and the females with magic, Mages, and she is far too willing to point out stupidity when she sees it. However, greater troubles than Faia's social status loom. Amid the magic of winged horses and cats with hands, something is calling women away to their deaths. Will Faia be able to keep from being devoured by the evil power that is awakening?
Evaluation: An adult crossover, this book would nonetheless appeal to advanced teen fantasy readers. The clashes between men and women, country barbarians and city scholars, and the struggle of good versus evil create several fronts for Faia to struggle against. With her practical bluntness, Faia does not censor her opinions about stupidity or the, to her, needless mysticism surrounding magic. The discrepancy between Faia's opinions and those of her city-born roommate are fascinating, and help to emphasize the difference in their worldviews. The quirky cat with hands is a hilarious side story, as the curious feline discovers all the wonderful things that opposable thumbs allow him to get into, much to his creator's dismay. I enjoyed reading this book, and look forward to reading the next in the series.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: As this book was written for adult, it has somewhat stronger themes than some teen books. Gender segregation, magic, murder, references to sex, violence, mild gore, and the start of a war are some of the possibly objectionable subjects in this book. Despite this, I think the story shines and would be an enjoyable book for advanced readers. I would recommend this book for fantasy readers age 16 and up.
31. The Battle of Jericho by Sharon M. Draper
The Battle of Jericho by Sharon M. Draper
ISBN: 0689842325
Atheneum, New York, 2003
297 pages
Teaser: An elite club, the Warriors of Distinction, had invited Jericho and his cousin Josh to pledge to join their club. Joining was an honor that the boys initially embraced as a means to wear the club colors and be recognized as one of the elite.
Summary: Jericho and his cousin began the pledge process just before Christmas, to become one of the group. To be recognized, no matter what they had to do to impress the other members, and the girls that followed the group. The first female pledge, Dana, was eventually singled out and treated as a sex object and asked to do demeaning tasks to pledge, while in other situations, given the easy choices and set up for admission. Josh in the end pays the ultimate price of his life and Jericho finds that being true to himself and not giving into peer pressure is what gets him what he wants in the end. Jericho found his true love and value for music competition and friendship.
Evaluation: I found this to be a good book. It brings out the old pledges of high school and colleges and how the desire to belong overrules the common sense and judgment of some and pushes others to do things they would never have dreamed of doing, right or wrong. It brings the inner city and poverty level of many youth into light as they struggle to overcome belonging and getting ahead in life. Friendships were examined and peer influences tested.
Challenge and age recommendation: The book had some sexual suggestiveness and racial tones, as well as some slang language that made the book seem of an older era. The process of pledging as well as the need for banning such pledging was examined, as well as how cruel teens can be to each other. I found the simplicity of giving and recognition by classmates to be realistic and true to middle school and high school situations. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up, particularly to those faced with fitting in and social struggles.
ISBN: 0689842325
Atheneum, New York, 2003
297 pages
Teaser: An elite club, the Warriors of Distinction, had invited Jericho and his cousin Josh to pledge to join their club. Joining was an honor that the boys initially embraced as a means to wear the club colors and be recognized as one of the elite.
Summary: Jericho and his cousin began the pledge process just before Christmas, to become one of the group. To be recognized, no matter what they had to do to impress the other members, and the girls that followed the group. The first female pledge, Dana, was eventually singled out and treated as a sex object and asked to do demeaning tasks to pledge, while in other situations, given the easy choices and set up for admission. Josh in the end pays the ultimate price of his life and Jericho finds that being true to himself and not giving into peer pressure is what gets him what he wants in the end. Jericho found his true love and value for music competition and friendship.
Evaluation: I found this to be a good book. It brings out the old pledges of high school and colleges and how the desire to belong overrules the common sense and judgment of some and pushes others to do things they would never have dreamed of doing, right or wrong. It brings the inner city and poverty level of many youth into light as they struggle to overcome belonging and getting ahead in life. Friendships were examined and peer influences tested.
Challenge and age recommendation: The book had some sexual suggestiveness and racial tones, as well as some slang language that made the book seem of an older era. The process of pledging as well as the need for banning such pledging was examined, as well as how cruel teens can be to each other. I found the simplicity of giving and recognition by classmates to be realistic and true to middle school and high school situations. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up, particularly to those faced with fitting in and social struggles.
30. Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman
Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman
ISBN: 0060285192
HarperCollins Children’s Books, New York, 2000
114 pages
Teaser: Shawn is a brilliant 14 year old who remembers anything he hears. He loves life and has a vivid imagination. The only thing is, Shawn has Cerebral Palsy and can’t move, speak or communicate with the outside world.
Summary: During his birth, Shawn suffered a ruptured vessel in his brain that left him with Cerebral Palsy. CP is a condition that cripples his body and ability to speak or react to his world out loud. In Addition, Shawn has seizures that cross circuit anything positive that he is feeling or dreaming about and puts him into a darkness that he doesn’t know if he will come back from. Like when the dog died, he just simply stopped being and vanished. Shawn’s mother is loving and attentive to Shawn, but his father cannot handle the fear of the unknown and life that Shawn is living and leaves when he is three years old. If only he could put his thoughts and dreams down in writing, everyone around Shawn could understand that he is content and even happy with his life and absorbing all that he hears and sees on television and through conversations no one knows he hears.
Evaluation: I like this book. It places strength and happiness in Shawn, who cannot express it for himself. It also gives hope and confidence in the parents who must deal with the struggles of not knowing from hour to hour if Shawn will be with them, or lost to the next seizure. I think it shows a parent’s unwavering love and devotion to a child and the little things that they do to make children content and thrive in a terrible situation. I would read other works from this author.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: In the story, the father considered killing Shawn because he thought Shawn was suffering and would want to be freed from his problems. Despite this, the overall tone of the story is not terribly morbid or sad. Believing in the ability of the less fortunate and to still try to enrich their lives and promote good feelings was a key to the love shown to Shawn. I would recommend this book and would explore other books written by this author. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up. May be too simplistic for high school students and was a short, easy read.
ISBN: 0060285192
HarperCollins Children’s Books, New York, 2000
114 pages
Teaser: Shawn is a brilliant 14 year old who remembers anything he hears. He loves life and has a vivid imagination. The only thing is, Shawn has Cerebral Palsy and can’t move, speak or communicate with the outside world.
Summary: During his birth, Shawn suffered a ruptured vessel in his brain that left him with Cerebral Palsy. CP is a condition that cripples his body and ability to speak or react to his world out loud. In Addition, Shawn has seizures that cross circuit anything positive that he is feeling or dreaming about and puts him into a darkness that he doesn’t know if he will come back from. Like when the dog died, he just simply stopped being and vanished. Shawn’s mother is loving and attentive to Shawn, but his father cannot handle the fear of the unknown and life that Shawn is living and leaves when he is three years old. If only he could put his thoughts and dreams down in writing, everyone around Shawn could understand that he is content and even happy with his life and absorbing all that he hears and sees on television and through conversations no one knows he hears.
Evaluation: I like this book. It places strength and happiness in Shawn, who cannot express it for himself. It also gives hope and confidence in the parents who must deal with the struggles of not knowing from hour to hour if Shawn will be with them, or lost to the next seizure. I think it shows a parent’s unwavering love and devotion to a child and the little things that they do to make children content and thrive in a terrible situation. I would read other works from this author.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: In the story, the father considered killing Shawn because he thought Shawn was suffering and would want to be freed from his problems. Despite this, the overall tone of the story is not terribly morbid or sad. Believing in the ability of the less fortunate and to still try to enrich their lives and promote good feelings was a key to the love shown to Shawn. I would recommend this book and would explore other books written by this author. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up. May be too simplistic for high school students and was a short, easy read.
29. Crushed by Laura and Tom McNeal
Crushed by Laura and Tom McNeal
ISBN: 0375831053
Random House Children’s Books , New York, 2006
308 pages
Teaser: Audrey is witty and smart as she tries to navigate graduating through High School with her best friends, until a certain boy catches her eye and he begins to use her for his own plans to graduate.
Summary: This is a charming book of the adventures and downfalls of clicks and clubs through high school. There are constant shifts between using each other to building friendships. Audrey finds her intelligence as an asset, until the boy of her dreams asks her to cheat to help him pass a test. She then questions her choices in doing what she can to keep the boy, or doing what she should and how the underground newspaper describes the characters as the plot unfolds. It takes a character that has lived in a much more sheltered private school to a public, fit in or fall flat platform.
Evaluation: I think any high school student can relate to how relationships change and the influence of groups in actions of even the best students. Audrey is a nerd who finds what she thinks is love with a guy who knows he can’t pass his class without the smart girl in school helping him out. Does he care for her because of her intelligence and willfulness to help him cheat, or is it real love and a chance to leave the girl next door image behind her and move on to more adventurous paths through life. The book has a lot of things going on at once that will keep your attention and make you want to finish it. It was a longer read and could get you through a weekend. I would like to read other works by this author.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: This book deals with a great deal of dying and hopeless, helpless type issues. Younger readers may get the wrong impression of doing whatever you need to do to fit in or have someone like you. I would recommend this book for readers 16 and up.
ISBN: 0375831053
Random House Children’s Books , New York, 2006
308 pages
Teaser: Audrey is witty and smart as she tries to navigate graduating through High School with her best friends, until a certain boy catches her eye and he begins to use her for his own plans to graduate.
Summary: This is a charming book of the adventures and downfalls of clicks and clubs through high school. There are constant shifts between using each other to building friendships. Audrey finds her intelligence as an asset, until the boy of her dreams asks her to cheat to help him pass a test. She then questions her choices in doing what she can to keep the boy, or doing what she should and how the underground newspaper describes the characters as the plot unfolds. It takes a character that has lived in a much more sheltered private school to a public, fit in or fall flat platform.
Evaluation: I think any high school student can relate to how relationships change and the influence of groups in actions of even the best students. Audrey is a nerd who finds what she thinks is love with a guy who knows he can’t pass his class without the smart girl in school helping him out. Does he care for her because of her intelligence and willfulness to help him cheat, or is it real love and a chance to leave the girl next door image behind her and move on to more adventurous paths through life. The book has a lot of things going on at once that will keep your attention and make you want to finish it. It was a longer read and could get you through a weekend. I would like to read other works by this author.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: This book deals with a great deal of dying and hopeless, helpless type issues. Younger readers may get the wrong impression of doing whatever you need to do to fit in or have someone like you. I would recommend this book for readers 16 and up.
28. Feed by M. T. Anderson
Feed by M. T. Anderson
ISBN: 0763622591
Candlewick, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 2004
273 pages
Teaser: If you spent your whole life listening to non-stop advertisements, courtesy of an internet-like "feed" wired directly into your brain, would you ever have a thought of your own?
Summary: I think the main character, Titus, manages to summarize this book better than I could: It's about the feed. It's about this meg normal guy, who doesn't think about anything until one wacky day, when he meets a dissident with a heart of gold. Set against the backdrop of America in its final days, it's the high-spirited story of their love together, it's laugh-out-loud funny, really heartwarming, and a visual feast. Together, the two crazy kids grow, have madcap escapades, and learn an important lesson about love. They learn to resist the feed. Rated PG-13. For language and mild sexual situations. (p. 234, dialog only).
Evaluation: I was a bit stunned by the world laid out in Feed. The voice it was told in was generally simplistic, with sentences that were either very short, or very long and rambling. I think this really helped to show the readers just how limited the speech patterns of the population have become in this world of constant advertizing. Violet's comparitavely complex voice stands out from the crowd, a legacy of her late feed implantation. With seven years to develop a working brain before being bombarded by the feed, Violet is capable of more complex thoughts and speech. It isn't quite as obvious that Titus is also somewhat advanced, but as Violet herself notes Titus is "the only one of them that uses metaphor," (p. 52).
Even more frightening than the clumsy decay of language is the fairly rapid decay of the people, who don't even care. People are developing lesions all over, and rather than be frightened of the strange development, they decide the sores are fashion statements, even going so far as to get fake lesions surgically created. Little commercial-like moments in the book hint at a coming calamity, an end of society, or at least the country, looming near, and no one but Violet even notices. Hidden under the stunted prose the world of Feed is a creepy and intriguing read.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Sex, alcohol, death and dying, and some fairly gross sores are all present in Feed. The decay of humanity could be a rather difficult topic for some to handle as well. Overall, I'll nudge Titus' rating up just a touch, and recommend this book for readers 14 and up.
ISBN: 0763622591
Candlewick, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 2004
273 pages
Teaser: If you spent your whole life listening to non-stop advertisements, courtesy of an internet-like "feed" wired directly into your brain, would you ever have a thought of your own?
Summary: I think the main character, Titus, manages to summarize this book better than I could: It's about the feed. It's about this meg normal guy, who doesn't think about anything until one wacky day, when he meets a dissident with a heart of gold. Set against the backdrop of America in its final days, it's the high-spirited story of their love together, it's laugh-out-loud funny, really heartwarming, and a visual feast. Together, the two crazy kids grow, have madcap escapades, and learn an important lesson about love. They learn to resist the feed. Rated PG-13. For language and mild sexual situations. (p. 234, dialog only).
Evaluation: I was a bit stunned by the world laid out in Feed. The voice it was told in was generally simplistic, with sentences that were either very short, or very long and rambling. I think this really helped to show the readers just how limited the speech patterns of the population have become in this world of constant advertizing. Violet's comparitavely complex voice stands out from the crowd, a legacy of her late feed implantation. With seven years to develop a working brain before being bombarded by the feed, Violet is capable of more complex thoughts and speech. It isn't quite as obvious that Titus is also somewhat advanced, but as Violet herself notes Titus is "the only one of them that uses metaphor," (p. 52).
Even more frightening than the clumsy decay of language is the fairly rapid decay of the people, who don't even care. People are developing lesions all over, and rather than be frightened of the strange development, they decide the sores are fashion statements, even going so far as to get fake lesions surgically created. Little commercial-like moments in the book hint at a coming calamity, an end of society, or at least the country, looming near, and no one but Violet even notices. Hidden under the stunted prose the world of Feed is a creepy and intriguing read.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Sex, alcohol, death and dying, and some fairly gross sores are all present in Feed. The decay of humanity could be a rather difficult topic for some to handle as well. Overall, I'll nudge Titus' rating up just a touch, and recommend this book for readers 14 and up.
27. Night Road by A.M. Jenkins
Night Road by A.M. Jenkins
ISBN: 9870060546045
Harper Teen, New York, 2008
362 pages
Teaser: The journey of young hemovores (a more sophisticated vampire), out of the safety of seclusion and on the street for a life journey. Cole takes Gordon under his wing and teaches him the path of their kind, without being caught.
Summary: Cole prefers the open road to the seclusion of hiding in shadows and staying in pacts. After centuries of being on his own, Cole is asked to look after a new hemovore. As they set out on the streets of Manhattan, Cole tries to help the younger Gordon, much like himself, learn the skills needed to stay under suspicion and out of the light of day. If he cannot hone the survival skills necessary into Gordon, he may have to take him out, like a wild dog.
Evaluation: I liked the detailed interactions between the characters, not only hemovores, but the other tenants in their building and on the streets. The night life details and how they prey on their victims is much like a stalker and singling out the weak to cull out of the herd. I enjoyed the pace of the book and the multiple faucets of the book as it progressed, involving many characters. It kept the flow of the book going and interesting. A book you would want to finish and hate to put down. I like the vampire type theme and enjoyed the book.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book is graphic and deals with killing, upscale vampire life, swindling from others and praying on those they suck blood from. A bit of mature language and knowledge of travel and inner city travel would be good to follow the pace of the adventure. I think due to the nature of the characters, I would recommend this book for readers 16 and up.
ISBN: 9870060546045
Harper Teen, New York, 2008
362 pages
Teaser: The journey of young hemovores (a more sophisticated vampire), out of the safety of seclusion and on the street for a life journey. Cole takes Gordon under his wing and teaches him the path of their kind, without being caught.
Summary: Cole prefers the open road to the seclusion of hiding in shadows and staying in pacts. After centuries of being on his own, Cole is asked to look after a new hemovore. As they set out on the streets of Manhattan, Cole tries to help the younger Gordon, much like himself, learn the skills needed to stay under suspicion and out of the light of day. If he cannot hone the survival skills necessary into Gordon, he may have to take him out, like a wild dog.
Evaluation: I liked the detailed interactions between the characters, not only hemovores, but the other tenants in their building and on the streets. The night life details and how they prey on their victims is much like a stalker and singling out the weak to cull out of the herd. I enjoyed the pace of the book and the multiple faucets of the book as it progressed, involving many characters. It kept the flow of the book going and interesting. A book you would want to finish and hate to put down. I like the vampire type theme and enjoyed the book.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book is graphic and deals with killing, upscale vampire life, swindling from others and praying on those they suck blood from. A bit of mature language and knowledge of travel and inner city travel would be good to follow the pace of the adventure. I think due to the nature of the characters, I would recommend this book for readers 16 and up.
26. Ghost Hunt by Shibo Inada and Fuyumi Ono
Ghost Hunt by Shibo Inada and Fuyumi Ono
ISBN: 0345486242
Del Ray, New York, 2005
111 pages
Alternate Format: Manga
Teaser: Like other girls in her class, Mai enjoys telling creepy ghost stories with the lights off. The abandoned old school building is a favorite subject for these stories, but what if there was some truth to them?
Summary: A student tradition at Mai's school is to tell ghost stories in a darkened classroom. Each person has a flashlight they turn off after they take their turn. Once all flashlights have been turned off, you count the number of people in the room, each calling out a number. Supposedly, you will end up with one extra person, a ghost. Mai and her friends are scared silly for a moment when an extra voice actually does call out, but it turns out to simply be a passing boy. The boy, Shibuya, is actually a professional ghost hunter, who has been hired by the school to determine the reason for the strange occurrences in the old school building. Mai sneaks in and accidentally breaks a very expensive camera that Shibuya had set up as part of his investigation, which leads to her working as an assistant in order to pay for the camera. Mai is impressed by the technology and science Shibuya uses to determine the actual cause of the strange occurrences, which end up being a combination of unstable ground and a budding psychic who had unconsciously been causing some things to happen. Mai expects the job to end after Shibuya finishes the case, but to her surprise, not only does he pay her for her time (even though she had been working to pay for the broken camera), he offers her a part time job as well. Mai accepts, and the volume ends.
Evaluation: This was a delightfully creepy book. While the illustrations were not particularly grotesque, the story was still spooky and suspenseful. Part of the actions turned out to have a mundane explanation, but the presence of the supernatural, in this case a psychic unconsciously causing ghost like events, is still supported, indicating that the absence of ghosts isn't going to be a permanent condition. This was a nice, not too scary, intro to the series.
Several cultural notes are included in the book, in two places. In the front the publisher has included a translation note to let readers know that the original Japanese honorific suffixes have been left un-translated, as some of the nuances cannot be accurately translated. A brief explanation of the honorifics is given, including the often overlooked absence of an honorific, which is either a sign that two people are very close friends, or a sign that the speaker is being incredibly rude. At the end of the book is a series of cultural references and translation notes. These include things like explanations of the first usages or unusual usages of some of the honorifics, cultural references that Americans may not get, and explanations for some of the ceremonial and religious aspects present. These notes can really help a reader unfamiliar with manga get a handle on some of the trickier subtleties present due to the cultural differences between Japan and America.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Ghosts, psychics, religion, and the creepy aspects of horror stories are all major parts in this story. Despite this, nothing is terribly graphic, just a few hazy images in windows and the occasional "drops of blood" accents added as decoration to some frames to up the creepy factor. This story was fairly tame, but I'm going to agree with the helpful rating on the back of the book and okay this for teens 13 and up.
ISBN: 0345486242
Del Ray, New York, 2005
111 pages
Alternate Format: Manga
Teaser: Like other girls in her class, Mai enjoys telling creepy ghost stories with the lights off. The abandoned old school building is a favorite subject for these stories, but what if there was some truth to them?
Summary: A student tradition at Mai's school is to tell ghost stories in a darkened classroom. Each person has a flashlight they turn off after they take their turn. Once all flashlights have been turned off, you count the number of people in the room, each calling out a number. Supposedly, you will end up with one extra person, a ghost. Mai and her friends are scared silly for a moment when an extra voice actually does call out, but it turns out to simply be a passing boy. The boy, Shibuya, is actually a professional ghost hunter, who has been hired by the school to determine the reason for the strange occurrences in the old school building. Mai sneaks in and accidentally breaks a very expensive camera that Shibuya had set up as part of his investigation, which leads to her working as an assistant in order to pay for the camera. Mai is impressed by the technology and science Shibuya uses to determine the actual cause of the strange occurrences, which end up being a combination of unstable ground and a budding psychic who had unconsciously been causing some things to happen. Mai expects the job to end after Shibuya finishes the case, but to her surprise, not only does he pay her for her time (even though she had been working to pay for the broken camera), he offers her a part time job as well. Mai accepts, and the volume ends.
Evaluation: This was a delightfully creepy book. While the illustrations were not particularly grotesque, the story was still spooky and suspenseful. Part of the actions turned out to have a mundane explanation, but the presence of the supernatural, in this case a psychic unconsciously causing ghost like events, is still supported, indicating that the absence of ghosts isn't going to be a permanent condition. This was a nice, not too scary, intro to the series.
Several cultural notes are included in the book, in two places. In the front the publisher has included a translation note to let readers know that the original Japanese honorific suffixes have been left un-translated, as some of the nuances cannot be accurately translated. A brief explanation of the honorifics is given, including the often overlooked absence of an honorific, which is either a sign that two people are very close friends, or a sign that the speaker is being incredibly rude. At the end of the book is a series of cultural references and translation notes. These include things like explanations of the first usages or unusual usages of some of the honorifics, cultural references that Americans may not get, and explanations for some of the ceremonial and religious aspects present. These notes can really help a reader unfamiliar with manga get a handle on some of the trickier subtleties present due to the cultural differences between Japan and America.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Ghosts, psychics, religion, and the creepy aspects of horror stories are all major parts in this story. Despite this, nothing is terribly graphic, just a few hazy images in windows and the occasional "drops of blood" accents added as decoration to some frames to up the creepy factor. This story was fairly tame, but I'm going to agree with the helpful rating on the back of the book and okay this for teens 13 and up.
25. Ttfn by Lauren Myracle
Ttfn by Lauren Myracle
ISBN: 0810959712
Amulet Books, New York, 2006
224 pages
Teaser: Drama, secrets, and love are revealed among the instant messages between best friends Angela, Maddie, and Zoe.
Summary: Told entirely in the instant messages between Angela, Maddie and Zoe, the trials and tribulations of junior year unfold. Angela is forced to move away when her father loses his job and finds a new one in another city. Maddie experiments with marijuana and falls in with a bad crowd. Zoe ends up dating a boy that used to like Angela, but Angela only saw as a friend. Eventually, Angela runs away to her aunt, who lives in her old home town where her friends are, Maddie gets caught buying pot, and Zoe's mother walks in on her and her boyfriend when they are getting very close to going too far.
Evaluation: The instant message format is a very different way to see into the main characters lives. In a way, the entire story is told only through dialog, though the dialog is written rather than spoken. This creates both a very intimate feeling, and a strangely detached and disjointed feeling. The girls all have various dramas in their lives, and it is interesting to see how the girls deal with it. Angela feels alone and out of place, and eventually makes a somewhat dangerous cross country trip to get back to the place she thinks of as home. Maddie feels rebellious, and ends up with a crush for the wrong guy, hanging out in a bad crowd and smoking pot. Zoe is torn over going out with a boy that she likes, and who likes her, because she feels that dating the boy that used to like one of her best friends is a betrayal, even though her friend and the boy never actually dated.
While the author does not seem to be encouraging bad behavior, Maddie seems to get a free pass for her actions. The danger Angela puts herself in when she runs away is not dealt with either, and she ends up actually being rewarded for her behavior. Zoe was the least offensive to me, as she was reckless, but did seem to express the most understanding of her bad situation, saying she was glad that her mom stopped her from going too far before she was ready. I'm not saying that I want the book to be more preachy, but I didn't really feel like the lighthearted "oh we were bad and got grounded for it" approach was serious enough for the topics discussed.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Sex, drugs, drinking, and running away from home are all present in this book. There are no real consequences for these actions, other than being grounded, and the book sometimes gets a bit raunchy with some of the conversations. I'd feel uncomfortable recommending this book to anyone under 15, due to how casually these topics are treated.
ISBN: 0810959712
Amulet Books, New York, 2006
224 pages
Teaser: Drama, secrets, and love are revealed among the instant messages between best friends Angela, Maddie, and Zoe.
Summary: Told entirely in the instant messages between Angela, Maddie and Zoe, the trials and tribulations of junior year unfold. Angela is forced to move away when her father loses his job and finds a new one in another city. Maddie experiments with marijuana and falls in with a bad crowd. Zoe ends up dating a boy that used to like Angela, but Angela only saw as a friend. Eventually, Angela runs away to her aunt, who lives in her old home town where her friends are, Maddie gets caught buying pot, and Zoe's mother walks in on her and her boyfriend when they are getting very close to going too far.
Evaluation: The instant message format is a very different way to see into the main characters lives. In a way, the entire story is told only through dialog, though the dialog is written rather than spoken. This creates both a very intimate feeling, and a strangely detached and disjointed feeling. The girls all have various dramas in their lives, and it is interesting to see how the girls deal with it. Angela feels alone and out of place, and eventually makes a somewhat dangerous cross country trip to get back to the place she thinks of as home. Maddie feels rebellious, and ends up with a crush for the wrong guy, hanging out in a bad crowd and smoking pot. Zoe is torn over going out with a boy that she likes, and who likes her, because she feels that dating the boy that used to like one of her best friends is a betrayal, even though her friend and the boy never actually dated.
While the author does not seem to be encouraging bad behavior, Maddie seems to get a free pass for her actions. The danger Angela puts herself in when she runs away is not dealt with either, and she ends up actually being rewarded for her behavior. Zoe was the least offensive to me, as she was reckless, but did seem to express the most understanding of her bad situation, saying she was glad that her mom stopped her from going too far before she was ready. I'm not saying that I want the book to be more preachy, but I didn't really feel like the lighthearted "oh we were bad and got grounded for it" approach was serious enough for the topics discussed.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Sex, drugs, drinking, and running away from home are all present in this book. There are no real consequences for these actions, other than being grounded, and the book sometimes gets a bit raunchy with some of the conversations. I'd feel uncomfortable recommending this book to anyone under 15, due to how casually these topics are treated.
24. Dirty Jersey by Phillip Thomas Duck
Dirty Jersey by Phillip Thomas Duck
ISBN: 100373830947
Kimani Press, New York, 2008
251 pages
Teaser: Eric is an awkward kid in high school, while his sister is cool and talented. When by accident Eric find himself with access to one of the coolest rapper groups around, his sister Kenya may fall victim to a bad boy rapper.
Summary: Eric and Kenya are opposites. He is quiet and reserved, while Kenya is friendly and outgoing. She also sings like a professional and dreams of hearing her voice on the radio. Eric finds himself in the back door of one of the most popular rappers around right now. Once Eric seems the way that Alonzo, rapper for Dirty Jersey operates, he knows his sister should stay away or become one of his next disposable girls. But Kenya won’t listen, she is impressed by the MTV, U-Tube and luxuries that money can buy and starts to go along for the ride. Kenya is impressed with the things Alonzo can do for her, or says he can to lure her into his dark world. Confused by romance and attention, Kenya finds herself falling for a bad boy. After catching Alonzo’s eye, Kenya may have bit parts singing and finds it sexy to be in a rapper video, but risks losing her talent as a true singer to the glitz and glamour of dress up and mirrors.
Evaluation: I liked the book. It was perhaps a peek into what may really happen when young impressionable kids get involved with thugs who can buy their way into just about anywhere they want and have whoever they want at their fingertips. Eric picks up quickly by watching and staying quiet that this is not the place to be, but also enjoys the cars, clothes, X-Box 360, I-Pod, phones and Hummer that he now had access to, thanks to Alonzo. What Eric doesn’t want if for Alonzo to add his sister to his list of conquests. Kenya has the talent to make it to the top in music, but not rapping. Eric steps away from all of the perks of riding the tails of Dirty Jersey’s success for his sister’s safety.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Sex, drugs, guns and dirty rap music. I found the black rapper slang a bit hard to follow as well. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up. It shows the risks of short cuts to success and the value of family and true friendships.
ISBN: 100373830947
Kimani Press, New York, 2008
251 pages
Teaser: Eric is an awkward kid in high school, while his sister is cool and talented. When by accident Eric find himself with access to one of the coolest rapper groups around, his sister Kenya may fall victim to a bad boy rapper.
Summary: Eric and Kenya are opposites. He is quiet and reserved, while Kenya is friendly and outgoing. She also sings like a professional and dreams of hearing her voice on the radio. Eric finds himself in the back door of one of the most popular rappers around right now. Once Eric seems the way that Alonzo, rapper for Dirty Jersey operates, he knows his sister should stay away or become one of his next disposable girls. But Kenya won’t listen, she is impressed by the MTV, U-Tube and luxuries that money can buy and starts to go along for the ride. Kenya is impressed with the things Alonzo can do for her, or says he can to lure her into his dark world. Confused by romance and attention, Kenya finds herself falling for a bad boy. After catching Alonzo’s eye, Kenya may have bit parts singing and finds it sexy to be in a rapper video, but risks losing her talent as a true singer to the glitz and glamour of dress up and mirrors.
Evaluation: I liked the book. It was perhaps a peek into what may really happen when young impressionable kids get involved with thugs who can buy their way into just about anywhere they want and have whoever they want at their fingertips. Eric picks up quickly by watching and staying quiet that this is not the place to be, but also enjoys the cars, clothes, X-Box 360, I-Pod, phones and Hummer that he now had access to, thanks to Alonzo. What Eric doesn’t want if for Alonzo to add his sister to his list of conquests. Kenya has the talent to make it to the top in music, but not rapping. Eric steps away from all of the perks of riding the tails of Dirty Jersey’s success for his sister’s safety.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Sex, drugs, guns and dirty rap music. I found the black rapper slang a bit hard to follow as well. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up. It shows the risks of short cuts to success and the value of family and true friendships.
23. The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things by Carolyn Mackler
The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things by Carolyn Mackler
ISBN: 0763619582
Candlewick, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 2003
256 pages
Teaser: Surrounded by a thin, beautiful family, overweight Virginia struggles with a massive inferiority complex. Virginia has always wanted to fit in with the rest of her family, but will a shocking event make Virginia realize that her family members aren't as perfect as they seem?
Summary: Virginia is overweight and very aware of it. She also wants to learn how to kiss, and wants to experiment a little. She is very insecure, and has created something she calls the Fat Girl Code of Conduct. She created this list after hearing a cruel joke about fat girls being like mopeds: fun to ride as long as your friends don't see you. Virginia decides that the only way she can get a guy is if she is willing to "let him get the milk without having to buy the cow." (pg. 17). She wants to find a boyfriend and make out, but she doesn't think that any boy will want to actually have a relationship. Virginia's older sister is beautiful, thin, and accomplished, as is her older brother. Her father is rarely around much, and her mother is an adolescent psychologist with no time for her own family. The book starts with Virginia and her sort-of-boyfriend Froggy making out, with Froggy awkwardly trying to ask if he can touch her chest, while Virginia is worried that he might actually want her to take her shirt off. Virginia's weight worries are not helped by her mother's constant suggestions that she should see a doctor about her "nutrition."
Virginia ends up going on a crash diet, and receives praise from her family for her abrupt deprivation diet. Virginias diet ends when her seemingly perfect older brother is suspended from college when a girl reports him for date rape. Virginia can't cope with the stress and returns to binge eating as a coping method, while trying to understand why her parent's won't talk about the date rape and are pretending everything is fine. Virginia ends up rebelling against her parents, and eventually she talks to her doctor again, and decides to try being more true to herself, rather than to the wishes of those around her. Things after this seem to click into place, and eventually Virginia starts losing weight through a combination of improved eating habits and a kickboxing class. She also comes to realize that the boy she was seeing actually likes her, and had only been ignoring her in public because he thought that was what she wanted, not because he was ashamed of her. She even starts a website with several friends as a way to express herself and allow other teens to get their feelings out. By accepting herself, Virginia ends up being able to change her life for the better.
Evaluation: I liked the first parts of the book, they really did feel gritty and realistic. Seeing how unhealthy Virginia's choices were, and seeing her reasons for her actions was really an eye-opener. I thought the end of the book was a little too good to be true, with Virginia suddenly getting her life in order and things falling into place almost immediately. I think that the simplicity of the ending will probably ring false for some teens, despite the good intentions. Fat girls reading this book are likely to already know what the book tells us: diet and exercise are the key to losing weight and staying healthy. However, I also think that the first parts of the book are valuable, as it helps highlight some of the emotions and unhealthy actions in such a way that girls may be able to see themselves, and realize even before the ending that their own actions might be just as unhealthy. Overall, I think this book is well-written, and a good recommendation for teens, especially girls with image issues. I just worry that the quick and easy happily ever after ending might be too simplistic for teens to take seriously, and that the ending might make some cynical teens disregard the entire message from the rest of the book.
Challenge issues: The main character is overweight, and is very body conscious. Crash dieting, peer and family pressure, and beauty ideals all play a large role in this book. A brief mention of bulimia makes an appearance as well. Teenage sexuality is also a large topic, at least in regards to kissing and a little bit of above-the-waist groping. The main character's brother date rapes a girl, which throws the main character into turmoil, while the rest of the family pretends there is no problem. Some tough topics are touched on, and teen sexuality plays a large role in this book. However, Virginia never goes past kissing and canoodling, the date rape is not explicit, and I think that the messages about body image and health are valuable and well presented. I think this book would probably be a valuable read for teens in high school, though I would be fine with middle school students reading the book if it were part of an assignment where they could discuss the more difficult topics.
ISBN: 0763619582
Candlewick, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 2003
256 pages
Teaser: Surrounded by a thin, beautiful family, overweight Virginia struggles with a massive inferiority complex. Virginia has always wanted to fit in with the rest of her family, but will a shocking event make Virginia realize that her family members aren't as perfect as they seem?
Summary: Virginia is overweight and very aware of it. She also wants to learn how to kiss, and wants to experiment a little. She is very insecure, and has created something she calls the Fat Girl Code of Conduct. She created this list after hearing a cruel joke about fat girls being like mopeds: fun to ride as long as your friends don't see you. Virginia decides that the only way she can get a guy is if she is willing to "let him get the milk without having to buy the cow." (pg. 17). She wants to find a boyfriend and make out, but she doesn't think that any boy will want to actually have a relationship. Virginia's older sister is beautiful, thin, and accomplished, as is her older brother. Her father is rarely around much, and her mother is an adolescent psychologist with no time for her own family. The book starts with Virginia and her sort-of-boyfriend Froggy making out, with Froggy awkwardly trying to ask if he can touch her chest, while Virginia is worried that he might actually want her to take her shirt off. Virginia's weight worries are not helped by her mother's constant suggestions that she should see a doctor about her "nutrition."
Virginia ends up going on a crash diet, and receives praise from her family for her abrupt deprivation diet. Virginias diet ends when her seemingly perfect older brother is suspended from college when a girl reports him for date rape. Virginia can't cope with the stress and returns to binge eating as a coping method, while trying to understand why her parent's won't talk about the date rape and are pretending everything is fine. Virginia ends up rebelling against her parents, and eventually she talks to her doctor again, and decides to try being more true to herself, rather than to the wishes of those around her. Things after this seem to click into place, and eventually Virginia starts losing weight through a combination of improved eating habits and a kickboxing class. She also comes to realize that the boy she was seeing actually likes her, and had only been ignoring her in public because he thought that was what she wanted, not because he was ashamed of her. She even starts a website with several friends as a way to express herself and allow other teens to get their feelings out. By accepting herself, Virginia ends up being able to change her life for the better.
Evaluation: I liked the first parts of the book, they really did feel gritty and realistic. Seeing how unhealthy Virginia's choices were, and seeing her reasons for her actions was really an eye-opener. I thought the end of the book was a little too good to be true, with Virginia suddenly getting her life in order and things falling into place almost immediately. I think that the simplicity of the ending will probably ring false for some teens, despite the good intentions. Fat girls reading this book are likely to already know what the book tells us: diet and exercise are the key to losing weight and staying healthy. However, I also think that the first parts of the book are valuable, as it helps highlight some of the emotions and unhealthy actions in such a way that girls may be able to see themselves, and realize even before the ending that their own actions might be just as unhealthy. Overall, I think this book is well-written, and a good recommendation for teens, especially girls with image issues. I just worry that the quick and easy happily ever after ending might be too simplistic for teens to take seriously, and that the ending might make some cynical teens disregard the entire message from the rest of the book.
Challenge issues: The main character is overweight, and is very body conscious. Crash dieting, peer and family pressure, and beauty ideals all play a large role in this book. A brief mention of bulimia makes an appearance as well. Teenage sexuality is also a large topic, at least in regards to kissing and a little bit of above-the-waist groping. The main character's brother date rapes a girl, which throws the main character into turmoil, while the rest of the family pretends there is no problem. Some tough topics are touched on, and teen sexuality plays a large role in this book. However, Virginia never goes past kissing and canoodling, the date rape is not explicit, and I think that the messages about body image and health are valuable and well presented. I think this book would probably be a valuable read for teens in high school, though I would be fine with middle school students reading the book if it were part of an assignment where they could discuss the more difficult topics.
22. The Masterharper of Pern by Anne McCaffrey
The Masterharper of Pern by Anne McCaffrey
ISBN: 0345424603
Del Rey, New York, 1998
422 pages
Teaser: The land of Pern may be destined for destruction, until a son is born, Robtinton may be able to save Pern and bring unity between the Lords and underlines or Harpers.
Summary: In the land of Pern, dragon riders are like rodeo riders, some succeed and some lose their lives. The fictional land is filled with perils and magical powers brought about by magical flutes and spells. The problems of the characters are that of real life, loss of a loved one (being eaten), death by fighting (dueling), girls and Harpers not being allowed to go to school or gain education and struggles over territory. Robtinton falls for the first female dragon rider, while trying to gain the respect of his elders.
Evaluation: I enjoyed the book a great deal. It has some old school issues of cheating, fighting, discovering half-siblings and two men going after one woman. It shows the coming of age in a dragon filled land, surrounded by water for sea adventures as well. The characters grown in knowledge, strength and respect for each other as the book progresses. New characters are added for intrigue during the book and unexpected alliances form to make the new generation of Pern stronger and with more hope of future survival. The characters build stronger relationships with each other when they lose someone near to them.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The challenges would be to keep the characters in retrospect to where they came from, who they trust and what the ultimate outcome of what they want and where it can go. It brings some old issues of slavery, girls being uneducated, younger men taking the place of their elders through battle and proving themselves. I would recommend this book for readers 14 and up, as younger readers may have trouble following the fast paced adventures of the characters.
ISBN: 0345424603
Del Rey, New York, 1998
422 pages
Teaser: The land of Pern may be destined for destruction, until a son is born, Robtinton may be able to save Pern and bring unity between the Lords and underlines or Harpers.
Summary: In the land of Pern, dragon riders are like rodeo riders, some succeed and some lose their lives. The fictional land is filled with perils and magical powers brought about by magical flutes and spells. The problems of the characters are that of real life, loss of a loved one (being eaten), death by fighting (dueling), girls and Harpers not being allowed to go to school or gain education and struggles over territory. Robtinton falls for the first female dragon rider, while trying to gain the respect of his elders.
Evaluation: I enjoyed the book a great deal. It has some old school issues of cheating, fighting, discovering half-siblings and two men going after one woman. It shows the coming of age in a dragon filled land, surrounded by water for sea adventures as well. The characters grown in knowledge, strength and respect for each other as the book progresses. New characters are added for intrigue during the book and unexpected alliances form to make the new generation of Pern stronger and with more hope of future survival. The characters build stronger relationships with each other when they lose someone near to them.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The challenges would be to keep the characters in retrospect to where they came from, who they trust and what the ultimate outcome of what they want and where it can go. It brings some old issues of slavery, girls being uneducated, younger men taking the place of their elders through battle and proving themselves. I would recommend this book for readers 14 and up, as younger readers may have trouble following the fast paced adventures of the characters.
21. Taggerung by Brian Jacques
Taggerung by Brian Jacques
ISBN: 0441009689
Ace Fantasy, New York, 2001
403 pages
Teaser: Two warring animal clans battle each other as good versus evil battles on, with Deyne, a young otter taken to Sawney Rath to lead them. Deyne and Taggerung rebel and seek their true families and place in this swashbuckling, medieval times these story.
Summary: Small forest animals from the above and underworld fight to kill off the other and hide from being killed. They must work together to find strength and strategies to keep off dangers that threaten them each day. The descriptions of the journeys and lengths that the animals travel is quite detailed, as if the food they consume during their conquests. The animals take on the feel of pirates and princes as they dress for battles and joust with mini weapons. You can almost feel the strength in their convictions to their truth beliefs and the good and evil weighing on the decisions they make. The characters get lost looking for clues, are nearly drown by the rain and curl up under leaves as shelter in this delightful fantasyland.
Evaluation: I liked this book for its transformation of the typical pirate into animal characters. They talk as if they are huge and equal to the large animals of the land, who can easily travel farther distances and are undoubtfully stronger and have a better sense of travel of the land than the tiny underground creatures.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book speaks of killing and harsh conditions for its characters. The swashbuckling language also takes a bit of getting used to if you don’t follow it along. I would are commend this book for ages ten and up. This is the 14th book in a series by the author, which can be enjoyed alone, or in order of the writings.
ISBN: 0441009689
Ace Fantasy, New York, 2001
403 pages
Teaser: Two warring animal clans battle each other as good versus evil battles on, with Deyne, a young otter taken to Sawney Rath to lead them. Deyne and Taggerung rebel and seek their true families and place in this swashbuckling, medieval times these story.
Summary: Small forest animals from the above and underworld fight to kill off the other and hide from being killed. They must work together to find strength and strategies to keep off dangers that threaten them each day. The descriptions of the journeys and lengths that the animals travel is quite detailed, as if the food they consume during their conquests. The animals take on the feel of pirates and princes as they dress for battles and joust with mini weapons. You can almost feel the strength in their convictions to their truth beliefs and the good and evil weighing on the decisions they make. The characters get lost looking for clues, are nearly drown by the rain and curl up under leaves as shelter in this delightful fantasyland.
Evaluation: I liked this book for its transformation of the typical pirate into animal characters. They talk as if they are huge and equal to the large animals of the land, who can easily travel farther distances and are undoubtfully stronger and have a better sense of travel of the land than the tiny underground creatures.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book speaks of killing and harsh conditions for its characters. The swashbuckling language also takes a bit of getting used to if you don’t follow it along. I would are commend this book for ages ten and up. This is the 14th book in a series by the author, which can be enjoyed alone, or in order of the writings.
20. Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen
Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen
ISBN: 9780670010882
Viking, New York, 2008
422 pages
Teaser: Ruby is only 17 when the social worker finds her living alone in the little yellow house. Her rich sister Cora and her husband are contacted and take Ruby to live with them and struggles to live in a world that she has never know and doesn’t know that she likes. In the end, Ruby is fundamental in saving Nate, who is being physically abused by his father.
Summary: There was a lot of symbolism in the book, that came full circle from Ruby being saved from her hopeless situation, to Ruby helping a friend, Nate, who is being physically abused by his father and doesn’t know what to do but cope the best he can. Each of them ends up with a savior in the family, who takes them in and takes them from poverty to wealth. Ruby searches for her father and her older sister is able to fill what life was really like when their father left their mother. Ruby and Nate each learn to let go of their mandated self reliance to trusting others and acceptance of perseverance to move up and out of their sorrow. Ruby is finally able to throw away the key to the little yellow house and some of the negative memories that it held.
Evaluation: I liked the book, but found it a pit predictable in rags from riches theme. I think it would have been better if there were still more struggle and real life outcomes, rather than life is good, my sister will bail me out and now I can afford anything I want. The search for the lost father was also a bit predictable and if he was such a good guy, why did he leave an alcoholic mother with young children and not keep in contact?
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book deals with alcoholism, physical abuse, neglect, stealing and blended social problems. I would recommend this book for readers 13 and up.
ISBN: 9780670010882
Viking, New York, 2008
422 pages
Teaser: Ruby is only 17 when the social worker finds her living alone in the little yellow house. Her rich sister Cora and her husband are contacted and take Ruby to live with them and struggles to live in a world that she has never know and doesn’t know that she likes. In the end, Ruby is fundamental in saving Nate, who is being physically abused by his father.
Summary: There was a lot of symbolism in the book, that came full circle from Ruby being saved from her hopeless situation, to Ruby helping a friend, Nate, who is being physically abused by his father and doesn’t know what to do but cope the best he can. Each of them ends up with a savior in the family, who takes them in and takes them from poverty to wealth. Ruby searches for her father and her older sister is able to fill what life was really like when their father left their mother. Ruby and Nate each learn to let go of their mandated self reliance to trusting others and acceptance of perseverance to move up and out of their sorrow. Ruby is finally able to throw away the key to the little yellow house and some of the negative memories that it held.
Evaluation: I liked the book, but found it a pit predictable in rags from riches theme. I think it would have been better if there were still more struggle and real life outcomes, rather than life is good, my sister will bail me out and now I can afford anything I want. The search for the lost father was also a bit predictable and if he was such a good guy, why did he leave an alcoholic mother with young children and not keep in contact?
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The book deals with alcoholism, physical abuse, neglect, stealing and blended social problems. I would recommend this book for readers 13 and up.
19. Marked by P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast
Marked by P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast
ISBN: 9780312360269
St. Martin’s Griffin, New York, 2007
306 pages
Teaser: Zoey is in a new school trying to adjust to the new school clicks, including the Dark Daughters, the most elite group in the school, but they want her to misuse her vampire powers.
Summary: Zoey’s Native America grandmother brings her to her new school and destiny. Zoey adapts seamlessly to her new journey and quickly sorts out the rituals and expectations that she must pass or die. Along the way she finds romance and sexual awareness awakening within her. Zoey knows that her classmates are making her misuse her powers, which can also destroy her. Will she have the strength to navigate the transformation into a vampire and still stay on the “good” side of her powers? Zoey thinks about her ex-boyfriend and wonders if she is where she belongs in this new setting. Even her teachers and classmates seem to think she doesn’t fit into their world either. Will she be able to transition, or was she better suited to a human world.
Evaluation: It was a fun book with light hearted humor and caring for other. Despite being characters from the dark side, Zoey turns out to be nice. The book is set in a world that recognizes and accepts vampires. Zoey has never felt she fit into the human world and welcomes being chosen or marked for her vampire world. It was an easy read that makes you want to jump into the next book in the series.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Readers will need to identify that vampires and blood drinking are linked. It also has some sex and language. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
ISBN: 9780312360269
St. Martin’s Griffin, New York, 2007
306 pages
Teaser: Zoey is in a new school trying to adjust to the new school clicks, including the Dark Daughters, the most elite group in the school, but they want her to misuse her vampire powers.
Summary: Zoey’s Native America grandmother brings her to her new school and destiny. Zoey adapts seamlessly to her new journey and quickly sorts out the rituals and expectations that she must pass or die. Along the way she finds romance and sexual awareness awakening within her. Zoey knows that her classmates are making her misuse her powers, which can also destroy her. Will she have the strength to navigate the transformation into a vampire and still stay on the “good” side of her powers? Zoey thinks about her ex-boyfriend and wonders if she is where she belongs in this new setting. Even her teachers and classmates seem to think she doesn’t fit into their world either. Will she be able to transition, or was she better suited to a human world.
Evaluation: It was a fun book with light hearted humor and caring for other. Despite being characters from the dark side, Zoey turns out to be nice. The book is set in a world that recognizes and accepts vampires. Zoey has never felt she fit into the human world and welcomes being chosen or marked for her vampire world. It was an easy read that makes you want to jump into the next book in the series.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Readers will need to identify that vampires and blood drinking are linked. It also has some sex and language. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
18. EverWorld by K.A. Applegate
EverWorld by K.A. Applegate
ISBN: 0590877437
Scholastic Inc., New York, 1999
208 pages
Teaser: David feels like his life in high school couldn’t get much better, he has good friends, a girlfriend and enjoys adventure, until his girlfriend, Senna is pulled to an underground world with bizarre creatures that are fighting an antique war.
Summary: David and three other high school students fall into the frightening universe of Everworld in order to save Senna, David’s girlfriend. But the land is inhabited by Vikings, a wolflike creature that took Senna, along with trolls, a gigantic snake, evil winged creatures called Hetwan, and unicorns. The four find that Everworld seems to be a parallel world to their own in many ways, where they are all existing in both worlds. Then taken prisoners and after falling asleep, wake to find that they must side with the Vikings to battle against an Aztec god in order to save Senna and their lives as well. The book is very descriptive of the scenery, characters and castle with mythical creatures alongside them. Senna is found and they barely escape with their lives and creatures following.
Evaluation: I liked the book for its descriptiveness and continued adventures. The characters become bonded by their experiences and what they bring from their world into this mythical world. I would like to see this brought into the theaters to see the animation and detailed of the characters and their land. I found the book engaging and stimulating. I would read others in the series.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The books deals with danger, illusion, parallel universe understanding, romance and death. I would recommend it for readers 14 and up, who enjoy a good scare and adventure stories.
ISBN: 0590877437
Scholastic Inc., New York, 1999
208 pages
Teaser: David feels like his life in high school couldn’t get much better, he has good friends, a girlfriend and enjoys adventure, until his girlfriend, Senna is pulled to an underground world with bizarre creatures that are fighting an antique war.
Summary: David and three other high school students fall into the frightening universe of Everworld in order to save Senna, David’s girlfriend. But the land is inhabited by Vikings, a wolflike creature that took Senna, along with trolls, a gigantic snake, evil winged creatures called Hetwan, and unicorns. The four find that Everworld seems to be a parallel world to their own in many ways, where they are all existing in both worlds. Then taken prisoners and after falling asleep, wake to find that they must side with the Vikings to battle against an Aztec god in order to save Senna and their lives as well. The book is very descriptive of the scenery, characters and castle with mythical creatures alongside them. Senna is found and they barely escape with their lives and creatures following.
Evaluation: I liked the book for its descriptiveness and continued adventures. The characters become bonded by their experiences and what they bring from their world into this mythical world. I would like to see this brought into the theaters to see the animation and detailed of the characters and their land. I found the book engaging and stimulating. I would read others in the series.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: The books deals with danger, illusion, parallel universe understanding, romance and death. I would recommend it for readers 14 and up, who enjoy a good scare and adventure stories.
17. Never Mind the Goldbergs by Matthue Roth
Never Mind the Goldbergs by Matthue Roth
ISBN: 0439691893
Push, New York, 2006
368 pages
Teaser: Hava is an Orthodox Jew with a decidedly punk flair. When she is offered a role in a sitcom over the summer, Hava accepts and heads from New York to Hollywood. Will Hava be able to stay true to her beliefs in the make-believe world of Hollywood?
Summary: Hava is a seventeen year old Orthodox Jew, living in New York and attending a private school. The last day of school she receives a call offering her a very unusual summer job - a role on new sitcom. Hava accepts and flies to Hollywood for the summer. Hava's only acting experience was a four month run of a very successful play, and she has no real idea of what to expect in Hollywood. Hava abruptly goes from a very tight knit community inside the larger city of New York to the anything goes, glitz and glam of Hollywood. It doesn't take long for Hava to get swept away in the party nightlife of Hollywood, as she follows her on-screen-sister to various clubs and parties where alcohol, drugs, and sex are all available. Hava struggles to stay true to her religious beliefs away from all of her friends and family and among so many people who all encourage her to just let go. While Hava remains true to her religious beliefs, she also parties, drinks, and at one point just leaves for a brief road trip. Eventually, the summer ends and Hava returns home, falling back into her old life.
Evaluation: Gritty and edgy, I liked reading this book. While it was fairly long, it went by quickly, and moved fairly fast. I liked the wildness Hava showed, while I was at the same time a bit shocked by her actions. By making Hava so out there, while she still observed her religious rules, this book could help break some stereotypes and preconceived ideas that readers might have.
I was a bit disturbed by just how much drinking was present, and how much partying the characters seemed to do, but I suppose the Hollywood setting is partially the reason for that. Hava frequently drinks alcohol, and does not seem to care that it is illegal, so long as the alcohol is kosher. Hava is uprooted and adrift, and it shows. She clings to her beliefs, but otherwise seems to drift along with the crowd for much of the story. This story wasn't really about change, or finding yourself, it was more about holding on to beliefs and staying the same even when no one around you understands.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Religion is a large part of this book, as the main character is an Orthodox Jew. There is also a large amount of underage alcohol consumption, mention of sex, and partying. Bad language of the four letter variety also makes frequent appearances. One character also admits he is gay, though it isn't made a big deal of. This book has a great deal of bad behavior, but nothing terribly explicit or violent, so I recommend it for readers 14 and up.
ISBN: 0439691893
Push, New York, 2006
368 pages
Teaser: Hava is an Orthodox Jew with a decidedly punk flair. When she is offered a role in a sitcom over the summer, Hava accepts and heads from New York to Hollywood. Will Hava be able to stay true to her beliefs in the make-believe world of Hollywood?
Summary: Hava is a seventeen year old Orthodox Jew, living in New York and attending a private school. The last day of school she receives a call offering her a very unusual summer job - a role on new sitcom. Hava accepts and flies to Hollywood for the summer. Hava's only acting experience was a four month run of a very successful play, and she has no real idea of what to expect in Hollywood. Hava abruptly goes from a very tight knit community inside the larger city of New York to the anything goes, glitz and glam of Hollywood. It doesn't take long for Hava to get swept away in the party nightlife of Hollywood, as she follows her on-screen-sister to various clubs and parties where alcohol, drugs, and sex are all available. Hava struggles to stay true to her religious beliefs away from all of her friends and family and among so many people who all encourage her to just let go. While Hava remains true to her religious beliefs, she also parties, drinks, and at one point just leaves for a brief road trip. Eventually, the summer ends and Hava returns home, falling back into her old life.
Evaluation: Gritty and edgy, I liked reading this book. While it was fairly long, it went by quickly, and moved fairly fast. I liked the wildness Hava showed, while I was at the same time a bit shocked by her actions. By making Hava so out there, while she still observed her religious rules, this book could help break some stereotypes and preconceived ideas that readers might have.
I was a bit disturbed by just how much drinking was present, and how much partying the characters seemed to do, but I suppose the Hollywood setting is partially the reason for that. Hava frequently drinks alcohol, and does not seem to care that it is illegal, so long as the alcohol is kosher. Hava is uprooted and adrift, and it shows. She clings to her beliefs, but otherwise seems to drift along with the crowd for much of the story. This story wasn't really about change, or finding yourself, it was more about holding on to beliefs and staying the same even when no one around you understands.
Challenge issues and age recommendation: Religion is a large part of this book, as the main character is an Orthodox Jew. There is also a large amount of underage alcohol consumption, mention of sex, and partying. Bad language of the four letter variety also makes frequent appearances. One character also admits he is gay, though it isn't made a big deal of. This book has a great deal of bad behavior, but nothing terribly explicit or violent, so I recommend it for readers 14 and up.
16. Ivy by Julie Hearn
Ivy by Julie Hearn
ISBN: 1416925066
Ginee Seo Books, New York, 2008
368 pages
Teaser: Red-haired Ivy has little to do with the path her life takes. First kidnapped by a gang of thieves, then used as a pliant model by a Pre-Raphaelite artist, Ivy floats through life on a cloud of laudanum. Will she be able to fight her addiction and gain control of her own life?
Summary: Ivy is denounced at birth by her superstitious father for her red hair, and is a rather peculiar child. At the age of five she is kidnapped by a group of thieves who wish to use her as a lure to draw rich children away from their minders so the thieves can steal their expensive clothes right off their backs. When Ivy suffers nightmares after her first job, she is dosed with laudanum to keep her quiet. Ten years later she is firmly addicted to the drug, and has returned to her less than loving family after her mentor was caught during a theft. Ivy's looks attract the attention of a Pre-Raphaelite artist, who decides he must have her as his model. Ivy's family quickly secures the job for Ivy, and sends the apathetic girl off to her job, uncaring of the possible intentions of the artist. While Ivy's family assumes that the artist has less than pure thoughts, the artist is so consumed with his work that he really sees Ivy as little more than a pretty doll to dress up. Ivy eventually starts to come out of her laudanum addiction, and begins to volunteer at a shelter for dogs.
As Ivy's mind clears, she realizes that she dislikes modeling, and really would prefer to do something more like the work with the dogs. The shelter offers her a modest position, consisting of little more than room and board, with possible pay in the future. Ivy does not accept the offer, worried about what her family will say if she quits her well paying modeling job to work for nothing more than a place to stay and food. The artist she models for eventually decides that he would like to move to the country, and wants Ivy to stay with him as his model. Due to the way the public would view this, he tells Ivy that he will have to marry her, and he will make sure to take good care of her. Fed up with being treated like a pet, posed and told to sit still for hours, and now informed that she will of course marry the artist because it is the only proper way for her to stay with him, Ivy decides to instead accept the offer to work at the shelter, and leaves both her greedy family and the oblivious artists behind.
Evaluation: This book feels as if it were a story played out behind a pane of glass. The slightly detached feeling surprisingly appropriate however, as the main character spends much of her time drifting through life in a drugged haze. The book also has a cadence to it that suggests it would be an excellent book to read out loud. According to the author's note at the end of the book, the story was inspired by the painting Beata Beatrix, which featured Lizzie Siddal, the woman the story was loosely based off of. Lizzie Siddal was an artist who is best remembered not for her work, but as Dante Gabriel Rossetti's red haired model. Lizzie died of a fatal laudanum overdose, which inspired the painting mentioned in the book, featuring a red crow giving a white poppy to a sad, pale, and sickly red haired woman. Ivy was written as a sort of happier ending version of Lizzie, a girl who manages to overcome her addiction and find her own place.
The Victorian slums feel about right, with details similar to other books set in that era. The patronizing attitudes of the benevolent rich seemed to be appropriate. The presence of a Ragged School is also accurate, as far as I can tell. Philanthropists engaged in various good works, aimed at deserving poor, including hundreds of small schools for children. Crime, propriety, and other details mix together to create a historical feel. Ivy is well characterized, growing from a simple child of five years old into a woman who has spent much of her life in a drugged haze. As she fights her addiction, her mind clears and a definite backbone develops, eventually leading to a decision to make her own way in a job she honestly enjoys.
Challenge issues: Ivy is addicted to laudanum for much of the story. Theft, crime, and sex are discussed, though there are no explicit sexual parts. There is also a character who cross-dresses, though this is not realized for much of the book. I'd recommend this book for teens 14 and up.
ISBN: 1416925066
Ginee Seo Books, New York, 2008
368 pages
Teaser: Red-haired Ivy has little to do with the path her life takes. First kidnapped by a gang of thieves, then used as a pliant model by a Pre-Raphaelite artist, Ivy floats through life on a cloud of laudanum. Will she be able to fight her addiction and gain control of her own life?
Summary: Ivy is denounced at birth by her superstitious father for her red hair, and is a rather peculiar child. At the age of five she is kidnapped by a group of thieves who wish to use her as a lure to draw rich children away from their minders so the thieves can steal their expensive clothes right off their backs. When Ivy suffers nightmares after her first job, she is dosed with laudanum to keep her quiet. Ten years later she is firmly addicted to the drug, and has returned to her less than loving family after her mentor was caught during a theft. Ivy's looks attract the attention of a Pre-Raphaelite artist, who decides he must have her as his model. Ivy's family quickly secures the job for Ivy, and sends the apathetic girl off to her job, uncaring of the possible intentions of the artist. While Ivy's family assumes that the artist has less than pure thoughts, the artist is so consumed with his work that he really sees Ivy as little more than a pretty doll to dress up. Ivy eventually starts to come out of her laudanum addiction, and begins to volunteer at a shelter for dogs.
As Ivy's mind clears, she realizes that she dislikes modeling, and really would prefer to do something more like the work with the dogs. The shelter offers her a modest position, consisting of little more than room and board, with possible pay in the future. Ivy does not accept the offer, worried about what her family will say if she quits her well paying modeling job to work for nothing more than a place to stay and food. The artist she models for eventually decides that he would like to move to the country, and wants Ivy to stay with him as his model. Due to the way the public would view this, he tells Ivy that he will have to marry her, and he will make sure to take good care of her. Fed up with being treated like a pet, posed and told to sit still for hours, and now informed that she will of course marry the artist because it is the only proper way for her to stay with him, Ivy decides to instead accept the offer to work at the shelter, and leaves both her greedy family and the oblivious artists behind.
Evaluation: This book feels as if it were a story played out behind a pane of glass. The slightly detached feeling surprisingly appropriate however, as the main character spends much of her time drifting through life in a drugged haze. The book also has a cadence to it that suggests it would be an excellent book to read out loud. According to the author's note at the end of the book, the story was inspired by the painting Beata Beatrix, which featured Lizzie Siddal, the woman the story was loosely based off of. Lizzie Siddal was an artist who is best remembered not for her work, but as Dante Gabriel Rossetti's red haired model. Lizzie died of a fatal laudanum overdose, which inspired the painting mentioned in the book, featuring a red crow giving a white poppy to a sad, pale, and sickly red haired woman. Ivy was written as a sort of happier ending version of Lizzie, a girl who manages to overcome her addiction and find her own place.
The Victorian slums feel about right, with details similar to other books set in that era. The patronizing attitudes of the benevolent rich seemed to be appropriate. The presence of a Ragged School is also accurate, as far as I can tell. Philanthropists engaged in various good works, aimed at deserving poor, including hundreds of small schools for children. Crime, propriety, and other details mix together to create a historical feel. Ivy is well characterized, growing from a simple child of five years old into a woman who has spent much of her life in a drugged haze. As she fights her addiction, her mind clears and a definite backbone develops, eventually leading to a decision to make her own way in a job she honestly enjoys.
Challenge issues: Ivy is addicted to laudanum for much of the story. Theft, crime, and sex are discussed, though there are no explicit sexual parts. There is also a character who cross-dresses, though this is not realized for much of the book. I'd recommend this book for teens 14 and up.
15. The Killer’s Cousin by Nancy Werlin
The Killer’s Cousin by Nancy Werlin
ISBN: 0803733704
Dial, New York, 2009
240 pages
Teaser: David’s girlfriend dies in an accident and David is accused of her murder. Once Acquitted, he is sent to an aunt in Cambridge Massachusetts for his senior year and ends up helping his bratty 11 year old cousin Lily face her demons.
Summary: High school is perhaps the most challenging year to explore who you are, your values and friendships that form lifelong bonds. David is sent away abruptly for his senior year with memories of the death of his girlfriend hovering over him. Along the way his cousin does everything she can to turn her parents and all of David’s friends away from him. The spirit of another dead teen, Lily’s sister, Kathy, lives in the attic where Davis is staying and helps push him to help Lily through her own demons and guilt. David’s aunt and uncle act is if they are burdened with David and that he can fend for himself. They each blame the other for Kathy’s suicide four years ago and don’t talk. They don’t even realize what their inactions are doing to Lily. David picks up an interesting variety of new friends to fit in with his new life that help him out along the way and give him inspiration.
Evaluation: I liked the book. It was a combination of mystery, adventure, demons and ghosts. I also found the characters to be in competition and they allies in the end to be a nice twist and that the commonalities of the characters in the end were sweet.
Challenge Issues and age recommendation: Death, suicide, demons, sex, revenge and hatred. The characters had strong opposing characteristics. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
ISBN: 0803733704
Dial, New York, 2009
240 pages
Teaser: David’s girlfriend dies in an accident and David is accused of her murder. Once Acquitted, he is sent to an aunt in Cambridge Massachusetts for his senior year and ends up helping his bratty 11 year old cousin Lily face her demons.
Summary: High school is perhaps the most challenging year to explore who you are, your values and friendships that form lifelong bonds. David is sent away abruptly for his senior year with memories of the death of his girlfriend hovering over him. Along the way his cousin does everything she can to turn her parents and all of David’s friends away from him. The spirit of another dead teen, Lily’s sister, Kathy, lives in the attic where Davis is staying and helps push him to help Lily through her own demons and guilt. David’s aunt and uncle act is if they are burdened with David and that he can fend for himself. They each blame the other for Kathy’s suicide four years ago and don’t talk. They don’t even realize what their inactions are doing to Lily. David picks up an interesting variety of new friends to fit in with his new life that help him out along the way and give him inspiration.
Evaluation: I liked the book. It was a combination of mystery, adventure, demons and ghosts. I also found the characters to be in competition and they allies in the end to be a nice twist and that the commonalities of the characters in the end were sweet.
Challenge Issues and age recommendation: Death, suicide, demons, sex, revenge and hatred. The characters had strong opposing characteristics. I would recommend this book for readers 12 and up.
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