sarah the librarian

"How to Rock Braces and Glasses" by Meg Haston

2012-01-28T11:01:00.000-08:00

I had both braces and glasses in middle school, so was totally drawn into the title. Not that I rocked them, by any means. :-)

Kacey Simon says what's on her mind, even if people don't want to hear it. Her harsh critiques have made her a social butterfly at Marquette Middle School. Her popularity soars with her outrageous newscaster skills, and she's always surrounded by friends. But when she gets an eye infection, her contacts are taken away and replaced with new glasses. To make matters worse, her mom surprises her with a trip to the orthodontist, who puts on new braces. Getting used to metal in her mouth, Kacey struggles to overcome a new lisp. She realizes how her honesty towards others may have hurt some feelings. Her friends don't seem supportive to her situation, so Kacey starts hanging out with a new crowd, and even finds her voice as the singer for a new band. This is a hilarious look at overcoming puberty's challenges and making the best of a bad situation.

"Broken Memory" by Elisabeth Combres

2012-01-03T14:26:00.000-08:00

Emma and her mother are part of the Tutsi ethnic group in Rwanda. They lead a peaceful life, until one day their village is invaded by soldiers. Emma hides behind a couch, and hears her mother get brutally murdered by Hutu soldiers. Orphaned, she flees from home, and finds refuge in an old woman's home. She calls the woman Mukecuru, and they develop a silent, trusting relationship, where Emma slowly feels safer. But her nightmares do not end, and her memories of the horrific genocide plague her for years. Emma is able to develop a friendship with another victim of the violence, and she slowly starts to remember and begin the healing process. This is a very concise (short) book that conveys the horrors of the Rwandan genocide, in an easy-to-digest and accessible format for younger audiences. Recommended for 5-12th grades

"No Passengers Beyond This Point" by Gennifer Choldenko

2011-12-22T20:28:00.000-08:00

Life is turned upside down when three siblings are forced to move. Their house has gone into foreclosure, and the bank is taking the house away. India, Finn and Switzerland, a.k.a. Mouse, are all named after countries their mom wanted to travel to. But times are harder now, there's no money to travel, and she is forced to send them to live with Uncle Red. Life is so unfair.

Uncle Red lives in Colorado, and India is put in charge of Finn and Mouse on the plane ride. All is going well, until the plane hits some serious turbulence. When they land, a car is waiting for them, and takes them to a strange city called Falling Bird. But there is no sign of Uncle Red anywhere. Everything in Falling Bird seems to be a little too perfect. They have whatever they desire, and people are so excited they are there. Certain things seem out of place, and they soon realize there are many questions left to be answered. Getting home, or even leaving Falling Bird, may not be as easy as they think.

"Chime" by Franny Billingsley

2011-12-20T14:42:00.001-08:00

“This isn’t a proper story, and I’m telling you, I ought to be hanged.” Briony is convinced she is a witch, and that her actions have cast evil upon her family. Her step-mother died and her twin sister is horribly ill, and Briony feels guilty for both. Years ago, Briony started a fire that destroyed the library in her family’s home, and everything she does seems to cast more hardship upon the ones she loves. Unfortunately, she can’t tell anyone she’s a witch, or else the local townspeople will hang her without mercy. Briony looks for solutions to her problems from the Old Ones, supernatural beings that haunt her local swamp. And when handsome Eldric comes to live in her village of Swampsea, Briony’s emotions overwhelm her and she’s forced to come to terms with her true identity.

"Paper Covers Rock" by Jenny Hubbard

2011-12-12T14:32:00.000-08:00

Thomas, Glenn and Alex went to the river to relax, and escape some of the stress of their elite boarding school. Someone had a bottle of vodka, and all of them were drinking more than they should Someone bet Thomas to jump off the big rock. Glenn and Alex jumped, but when Thomas did, he didn't have enough clearance. What was supposed to be an afternoon of leisure, turned into one of horror, as Glenn and Alex realize their implication in their friend's untimely death. And they make a pact to not mention alcohol to school officials, in order to cover their tracks. But Alex is not dealing with his grief well. He starts a secret diary, which he keeps hidden in the school library. And his English teacher, Miss Dovecott, suspects he may not be sharing all he knows about the accident. Glenn and Alex devise a plot to get Miss Dovecott fired, and out of their business.

"All These Things I've Done" by Gabrielle Zevin

2011-12-10T09:41:00.001-08:00

Imagine not being able to buy chocolate or coffee! It's the year 2083 and the government has outlawed both. But Anya is able to get as much chocolate as she wants, since her family is involved in selling it on the black market. But when her ex-boyfriend is hospitalized by a bad batch of chocolate, Anya is wrongly charged with trying to poison him. When all of your relatives are criminals, people get suspicious! There is a new boy at school, Win, and Anya finds herself falling for him. The only (big) problem is that he's the District Attorney's son. And he doesn't want him family involved in anything criminal. This is the first installment in a new series called "Birthright."

"The Summer I Learned to Fly" by Dana Reinhardt

2011-11-09T13:54:00.000-08:00

Drew is 13 years old, and kind of a loner. Her dad died from a heart problem when she was younger, so she's always lived with her mom. They get along pretty well, and Drew helps out in her mom's gourmet cheese shop after school and on weekends. There's this guy Nick who works at the cheese shop, and Drew has a mad crush on him and his ability to make beautiful pasta. But Nick's older and not interested in middle school girls. Drew always puts the extra cheeses and breads in the alley behind the store, and it always magically disappears by morning. One night she meets a boy, Emmett, and she quickly develops another crush. The writing in this book is beautiful and it's an honest, coming-of-age story of a young girl finding her place in the world.

"Ivy" by Sarah Oleksyk

2011-10-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

Ivy is so ready to be done with high school. She longs for escape and hopes to get accepted into an art school, far away from her small town in Maine. She's been raised by her single mom, and lately it seems everyone is against her. Her friends don't want to hang out as much, her teachers are giving her detention, and her nemesis in art class is driving her insane. But when Ivy meets a cute guy at an art school convention, things look like they're picking up, until they fall apart again. Quirky and sincere coming-of-age graphic novel. Mature subject matter, so probably best for older teens.

"It Gets Better: coming out, overcoming bullying, and creating a life worth living" by Dan Savage

2011-10-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

This book was published in conjunction with the "It Gets Better Project," this collection of essays gives hope to those who have struggled with bullying, intimidation, and loneliness in high school. Dan Savage was inspired to ignite the "It Gets Better" YouTube campaign, after a number of high school students commited suicide after enduring relentless taunting and bullying. A number of these students were LBGT and felt isolated in their homophobic and judgemental communities. Savage encouraged adult survivors of bullying to submit videos encouraging young people not to commit suicide, with the premise that "it gets better." Included are essays by our President Barack Obama, Ellen DeGeneres, Hilary Clinton, Suze Orman, and Al Franken. Other testimonials include an assortment of LBGT adults ranging from actors, dancers, military veterans, doctors, activists and parents. They all survived high school, and have created happy, fulfilling lives with strong support systems. While the book isn't as emotionally charged as the videos, it is an excellent resource for any struggling LBGT youth or family member.

"Wonderstruck" by Brian Selznick

2011-10-27T13:55:00.000-07:00

Even better than Hugo Cabret! Masterpiece work of art and story perfect for all generations. Two stories are told, one in print, the other in gorgeous black and white drawings. Ben lives with his aunt and uncle after his mom dies. They live on Gunflint Lake in Minnesota in 1977. Rose is obsessed with a famous actress. She lives with her dad in a beautiful mansion in Hoboken, New Jersey, overlooking the city skyline of New York City. Rose is living in 1927. Ben is determined to find the father he has never known. Rose is determined to find the actress who influences her life in powerful ways. Both Rose and Ben run away to New York City to look for missing clues, each trying to piece together their own puzzles. Selznick seamlessly intertwines their stories with compassion, curiosity and a sense of true wonder. I loved "The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" when I was young. This book almost made me cry with its references to this classic tale about running away, hiding out in your favorite museum, and trying to make sense of it all.

"How to Be an Explorer of the World: Portable Life Museum" by Keri Smith

2011-10-27T13:53:00.000-07:00

How to explore your world, without really having to go anywhere. This book encourages you to pay attention to the ordinary, the overlooked and the everday. Look in corners, around your house, and up to the sky. Notice patterns, similarities, differences and how things work together. Smith offers prompts for cataloging and contemplating our world, our place in it, and how our perception is constantly evolving and shifting. Excellent exercises for budding artists and/or creative types. Good scavenger type hunts for younger, and good meditative, mindful exercises for older. Fun, quirky read for everyone.

"As I Wake" by Elizabeth Scott

2011-10-27T13:52:00.001-07:00

Ava wakes up in a hospital. Her doctors tell her she's ready to go home, and her mom is there to escort her, but she can't remember anything. Ava has a severe case of amnesia, with no memory of her life before the hospital. Her mom seems like a nice enough woman, and her friends at school keep her entertained, but Ava knows something is not quite right. And then she starts having flashbacks. Ava can remember working for the government, as a special type of spy. She had to keep watch over certain people, reporting back on their activities. But when these memories resurface, Ava blacks out. Someone doesn't want her to remember. And Ava doesn't know who to trust. Should she accept the life people tell her she's lead, or dig deeper into her head, to try to remember what really happened?

"Keeping Corner" by Kashmira Sheth

2011-09-14T12:35:00.001-07:00

The year is 1918, and Leela is 11 years old, living in India. She got engaged to Ramanlal when she was 2 years old, and her parents married her when she was 9. She still lives with her mother and father, but the following year, she will have an anu (a special ceremony where she will move into her husband's house). This is common for girls Leela's age to marry young. She is one of the few female students left at her school, as most other girls have already moved in with their husband's families. Leela's parents love her, and want what's best for their daughter. However, Leela is devastated when her husband, Ramanlal, unexpectedly dies in an accident. Due to local customs, Leela is now a widow at 11 years old, and can never remarry. She must shave her head and "keep corner" for one year after his death. This basically means she can't leave her parents' house, the ultimate grounding. Her options are severely restricted, and in her eyes, very unfair. But there is talk of change. A man named Gandhi is calling on the government to change the way it treats its workers, and to give more rights to women. Widows are considered bad luck in this time of India's history. If people believe and follow Gandhi's ideas, Leela may have the opportunity to work and go to school.

"Unlocked" by Ryan G. Van Cleave

2011-09-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

This is a unique novel-in-verse, good for fans of Ellen Hopkins work. At school, Andy is known as the janitor's son, which doesn't lend much to his reputation, which is already non-existant. Andy befriends Blake, another loner, and he's happy to have company at lunch at after school. Rumors start that Blake is keeping a gun in his locker, and Andy's not sure what to believe. Are the rumors true? And if Blake is planning some sort of violence, should Andy keep the secret?

"The Gardener" by S.A. Bodeen

2011-09-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

Mason visits his mom at the nursing home where she works. While he's there, he notices some teenagers are "living" there, which is weird, given nursing homes are normally for old people. The teens are comatose, except for one gorgeous girl who wakes up. She's able to talk to Mason, and he quickly realizes that these special patients may be in trouble. Before he can realize what's happening, Mason is helping the girl escape.

It turns out the hospital is not your typical place for medicine and health. In a special greenhouse, a man called the Gardener is conducting unique experiments. Scientists who work for the Gardener are concerned that the planet will soon run out of food, due to overpopulation and climate change. They are working to develop human autotrophs - humans that don't need to eat, but who can produce and consume their own energy, just like plants!

But, something about this project doesn't seem right, and hospital authorities are soon chasing after Mason and the mysterious girl from the hospital. Is she connected to the Gardener? Something about her isn't quite right, but Mason is determined to protect her at all costs.

"Like Mandarin" by Kirsten Hubbard

2011-08-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been envious of a classmate? Grace Carpenter isn't quite envious; she is infatuated with Mandarin Ramey, an upperclassman at her high school. Mandarin is feisty, popular with the boys, and not afraid to show her independence. She's definitely got herself a reputation in their small, Wyoming town. And reputation is something Grace is lacking. Grace excels at her classes, is tired of her old friends, and her mom and sister are too busy doing the beauty pageant circuit to pay much attention to her. Grace is dying for more excitement in her boring life, and she's convinced Mandarin can provide it. The two girls are paired up for a school project, and they form an unlikely friendship, surprising everyone. But when Mandarin starts showing Grace how people really are, Grace isn't sure she's ready for all the drama.

"Chinese Cinderella: The True Story of an Unwanted Daughter" by Adeline Yen Mah

2011-08-24T13:47:00.001-07:00

Wu Mei or Adeline (her English name) was the youngest of five siblings, born into a wealthy family in Communist China. Because her mother died giving birth to her, Adeline is considered "bad luck" by her family. Her father remarries a woman named Niang, and they have two children together, who are spoiled rotten. Adeline and her original siblings are often neglected and ignored. Niang controls the family dynamics and she's decided that Adeline is not worth much of anything. Adeline's great aunt and grandfather offer some love and support, but as they are financially dependent on Niang, they must be discreet in showing any affection. Adeline is sent away to boarding school for much of her childhood, and is completely cut off from her family emotionally. She years to be loved by her father and gain respect from Niang, but she feels invisible in their eyes. While not physically abused by her parents, their emotional neglect is heartbreaking to Adeline, and she immerses herself into her studies and books to forget the pain. This is a heartbreaking true "Cinderella" story. A good example of life in China in the 1940s during World War II.

"Illegal" by Bettina Restrepo

2011-08-01T19:42:00.001-07:00

Nora should be getting excited for her Quinceanera, her celebration of becoming a woman on her 15th birthday. But times are economically challenging in her family's small, Mexican town. The crops are not producing, money is low, and her family is running out of options. Nora's father pays a coyote to take him illegally across the border, into Texas, so he can find regular work. For months, he sends money home, but it's never quite enough. The crops are failing and there is no hope in sight. After the money stops altogether, Nora convinces her mother that they must go to Texas to find him. Using all of their savings, they risk their lives and cross the border into the unknown. Life as an illegal is not an easy one. Their English is not good, and they do not have government papers, making work hard to find. What has happened to Nora's father, and what do they have at home to return to?

"Shine" by Lauren Myracle

2011-07-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

Black Creek, North Carolina is a small town where everyone knows everyone's business. Teenagers at the local high school have grown up together, and it's a tragedy when 17-year-old Patrick Truman is found brutally beaten outside the convenience store where he worked. What is more shocking is that Patrick appears to be the victim of a vicious hate crime. Police are searching for subjects but they have no lead, and no witnesses have come forward.

16-year-old Cat used to be best friends with Patrick when they were younger. She stopped being social with him a few years back...not because of his personality or sexual preferences, just because Cat felt more at home by herself and at church.

When Cat hears of the attack against Patrick, she is devastated. Some community members warn her to leave the issue alone, and some people are convinced that Patrick deserved what he got. Cat is determined to find the responsible person(s) and bring them to justice for the crime they committed. When she starts her investigation, certain members of her friends and community are exposed in unfavorable circumstances. A dark, meanacing problem is ravaging the young people in Black Creek, and its presence may have contributed to Patrick's assault.

This is a powerful, raw, violent book, but has many important messages regarding hate crimes and stereotypes. I would recommend for high school or mature readers. Heavy language and subject matter, but extremely well written.

"Displacement" by Thalia Chaltas

2011-07-19T12:50:00.000-07:00

Vera is determined to make a new life for herself. After her sister's accidental drowning, she finds her mother absent from their lives, and her older sisters is tired of looking after her siblings. Vera finds herself in the small town of Garrett, a deserted mining town in the vicinity of Death Valley. The town is mostly abandoned, and Vera goes about making herself useful. She obtains work with a local potter at his kiln, and does some bookkeeping for an Indian boy, Lon, who is a local art dealer. He also attracts Vera's attention as a potential love interest. Vera soon learns that small towns have no secrets. As she tries to escape her grief from her sister's death, she is constantly haunted by her ghost, and reminded how far she is from home. Thalia Chaltas does a remarkable job of telling Vera's story of independence and grieving. This is Chaltas's second novel-in-verse, after her debut "Because I am Furniture" in 2009 chronicled the patterns of an abusive father. Quick, thoughtful, eloquent reads. And this cover is fantastic.

"True...Sort of" by Katherine Hannigan

2011-05-27T13:23:00.001-07:00

Delly Pattison is constantly in trouble. Whether it's getting into fights, talking back, or acting out, people always tell her she's bad. And she's begining to believe it. Delly doesn't have many friends, so when Ferris Boyd turns up at school, Delly is determined to make nice. Ferris doesn't talk, but they form a strong bond over exploring nature and marshmallow fluff. Ferris is a basketball hot-shot and likes to play with another classmate, Brud. Together, Delly and Ferris make an exceptional team, focused on fun and adventure. But when Brud and Delly suspect Ferris may be in trouble at home, Delly decides it's time to do good, and help her friend out. This is a great read for 3-5th grades.

"Badd" by Tim Tharp

2011-05-09T12:08:00.000-07:00

Ceejay has always been close with her older brother, Bobby. He is charismatic, smooth and wild at heart. When he gets caught stealing a car, Bobby has to decide between jail and the army. Bobby has been serving in Iraq, and Ceejay misses him terribly. She is both stunned and thrilled when Bobby comes back to town early and unannounced. Something isn't quite right, his behavior is moody and he's not acting like himself. He doesn't want to associate with the family and he's heavily drinking and doing dangerous drugs. There is an old, hippie musician in town named Captain Crazy. He is known for his unusual art sculptures and erratic behavior. Ceejay sees him protesting the war, and she gets very defensive about her brother and his tour of duty. But when Bobby and the Captain develop an unlikely friendship, Ceejay tries her best to support him. Each family member has their own way to deal with Bobby's Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Tharp also wrote "The Spectacular Now," which was a National Book Award Finalist. This is a powerful account of a family dealing with war in current times. It is well crafted and the characters are realistic and believable. There are lots of references to drugs and sex, but the main character Ceejay is pretty level headed and has disapproving perspectives on those behaviors.

"So Shelly" by Ty Roth

2011-04-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

I love this cover. John Keats and Gordon Byron have little in common. Keats is academic, sensitive and comes from modest means. Bryon is wealthy, suave and his charismatic charm seduces women in abundance. What Keats and Byron share is a friendship with Shelly, a loudspoken, determined and fiesty young woman. Shelly drowns in a sailing "accident" and these two unlikely teens have been called upon to fulfill Shelly's last wishes. Their adventure begins when they steal Shelly's ashes from her memorial service. As they embark on this journey, they each share their stories of Shelly and her lasting impact. A pseudo love triangle is exposed and each guy becomes privy to her secrets she safely guarded. This book's characters are supposedly based on the writers John Keats, Mary & Percy Shelley, and Lord Byron. The book is somber, the characters decently developed, and it has an interesting premise. Abortion, incest and drug references are included, best for mature teens.

"Stolen" by Lucy Christopher

2011-03-30T13:57:00.000-07:00

"Stolen" is the best teen book I've read this year! Gemma is killing time at the Bangkok airport where she's waiting to leave on a family vacation. While ordering coffee, she meets a super cute boy. This guy Ty is charming and handsome, and insists on buying Gemma her drink. What Gemma doesn't realize is that Ty has drugged her coffee. Before she can understand what is happening, Ty is able to change her appearance, alter her passport, and board her on another flight, to another distant country. Gemma has been kidnapped by a man who knows her better than she realizes. He has thought of everything in advance, plotting the abduction for years. When she regains consciousness, Gemma has no clue where she is, or how anyone will ever be able to find her. Her captor swears he won't hurt or harm her, but how do you believe someone who's stolen you? "Stolen" is the first novel from Lucy Christopher, an Australian author. Beautifully crafted as a letter to her captor, Gemma is able to articulate the horrors of her abduction, as well as her sympathies towards a confused and deranged man.

"Exposed" by Kimberly Marcus

2011-03-24T17:45:00.000-07:00

Liz is a high school senior, and has special talent when it comes to photography. Her eye is able to capture intimate moments and her teachers think she has potential for a future at art school. Kate and Liz have been best friends for years. Liz is the photographer, and Kate is the dancer. Their friendship comes to an abrupt halt when Kate accuses Liz's brother of a heinous crime. Liz is torn between mourning the loss of her best friend, supporting her traumatized family, and deciding who is telling the truth. This book is a novel-in-verse, reads very smoothly and poetically, and I finished it in about 2 hours. "Exposed" is a wonderful read-a-like for fans of Ellen Hopkins or Laurie Halse Anderson. Mature subject matter.

See What I See

2011-03-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

Kate's dad, Dalton Quinn, is a famous artist. He gained notoriety for his grisly paintings that shed a dark light on society's woes. His work has been on display in prestigious galleries throughout the world, and his reputation as an artist is both admirable and impressive. His qualities as a father, however, leave a lot to be desired. Dalton abandoned Kate and her mom years ago, so he could pursue his art, along with drinking and other women. Kate grew up in a trailer, while her mom worked extra hours to make enough to get by. When Kate grows up, she realizes she has her own art talent, enough to win a scholarship to art school in Detroit. And it just so happens that Detroit is where her estranged dad has been living. Kate is determined to repair their relationship. She's convinced that by showing up at his doorstep, her dad will take her in with open arms. Instead, she finds a grouchy, mean man, coming to terms with his own mortality. Their relationship is turbulent and awkward, but as Kate learns more about her father's condition, they learn to depend on each other for what it's worth.

Stick Figure - A Diary of My Former Self

2011-02-08T14:28:00.000-08:00

Lori Gottlieb is 11 years old and lives in fabulous Beverly Hills . Her dad is a stockbroker, and her mom is your average housewife, obsessed with her weight, appearance, and shopping.

In school, Lori notices her friends starting to act weird. Instead of focusing on school and tests, everyone seems to be more interested in hairstyles, clothes and boys. Lori could care less.

Lori's mom is always trying to get her to work on her appearance. Her hair isn't exciting enough, and her clothes are not fashionable at all. Lori is constantly told that if her looks don't improve, she'll have problems finding a husband, and will have to go to secretary school.

Fed up with all of the interference in her life, and her parents' inability to listen, Lori starts a regime of strict dieting. She becomes obsessed with counting calories, reading diet books, and exercising. She finds herself repulsed by the thought of food, and is convinced she can gain weight by just smelling delicious foods.

Lori's parents become concerned when her weight drops dangerously low. They force her to see a psychiatrist, who doesn't seem to get Lori's logic. She is unwilling to follow her doctor's orders, and doesn't put on any weight. In face, her dieting gets worse, and she gets even skinnier, eventually resulting in hospitalization.

This is Lori Gottlieb's true story about her struggle with anorexia when she was 11 years old. Lori found her old diaries in her parents' house and pieced them together to form "Stick Figure: A Diary of My Former Self." This is a great read for anyone who enjoyed Laurie Halse Anderson's "Wintergirls." Lori entertains the inconsistencies between what society tells young girls to strive for, and what is healthy and good for our bodies.

2011-01-06T19:55:00.000-08:00

Lanesha lives in the Ninth Ward in New Orleans. It's a poor neighborhood, and her family has never had much money. Her only family is her grandma, Mama Ya-Ya, since Lanesha's own mom died giving birth to her. Mama Ya-Ya makes her feel so special and loved, with homemade southern cooking, and plenty of together time. Mama Ya-Ya has a special gift, where she can see ghosts, and has magical healing powers that help the sick. Some of the neighbors are skeptical, but Lanesha knows it's true, because she has the same power to see ghosts, inlcuding her mom.

The weathermen on the news start to warn everyone that a big hurricane is headed for Florida. As the storm hits land, and moves closer to Louisiana, it grows in size, and everyone is told to evacuate. But Lanesha and Mama Ya-Ya have no money and nowhere to go. Mama Ya-Ya's health isn't doing so well. Lanesha is determined to take matters into her own hands, and help them survive. This storm may be more than they can handle!

"Stuck in Neutral" by Terry Trueman

2010-11-03T14:30:00.001-07:00

Imagine having no control over your body. You can't move your legs, your arms, your head, or anything. All of your life you've been confined to a wheelchair. You can't communicate, and you're dependent on those around you to feed you, bathe you, and take care of your every need. That is what life has always been like for Shawn. Shawn has had cerebral palsy his entire life. At 14, Shawn is used to being called a vegetable, a retard, and plenty of other names. No one thinks Shawn is capable of understanding anything, let alone having feelings. His family loves him, but even they have a problem making a connection. This is a book written from Shawn's perspective. Not only can Shawn process information and have deep thoughts, he's confident his life may be in danger. Shawn suspects his own father may be plotting to kill him, to put him out of his misery. But Shawn's not miserable! How do you tell someone your life is in danger when you can't communicate?

"Stranded" by J.T. Dutton

2010-11-01T15:32:00.000-07:00

Kelly Marie is forced to move back to her mom's hometown of Heaven, Iowa. Adjustment is not as easy as she would like. Her Nana is obsessed with keeping a clean house, and Kelly is forced to share a bedroom with her bible-loving cousin, Natalie. The town of Heaven is so rural, Kelly is worried she may die of boredom. Police discover a dead infant who was abandoned in local fields, and Natalie suspects her own mom may know more about the scandal than she's letting on.

"And Then I Found Out the Truth" by Jennifer Sturman

2010-10-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

Delia's mom has been busy trying to save the environment down in Antarctica. But the big oil companies aren't fond of her attempts, and will stop at nothing to shut her up, including murder! Delia gets word that her mom is living underground in Argentina, where she's protected by a bodyguard, and safe...at least for the time being. Delia's been sent to New York City to live with her aunts, and is attending a very prestigious, private school. And there is a new boy around, Quinn, who turns out to be a romantic interest. Delia is ready to do some undercover work of her own to help her mom out, and put the criminals away. But things get complex, when she discovers Quinn's own step dad may be in on the plot to kill her mom. Going to Argentina seems like the only viable option to save her from danger...but will they be able to get there in time? This is the sequel to "And Then Everything Unraveled."

"Maus I: A Survivor's Tale" by Art Spiegelman

2010-10-11T13:37:00.000-07:00

Art Spiegelman interviews his dad, Vladek, to try to piece together his father's experiences with the Holocaust during World War II. Vladek recalls how he and his wife were constantly either on the run, or in hiding, in order to avoid getting arrested by the Germans for being Jewish. Many Jews were sent to concentration camps, and few managed to escape the horrors of these camps, and were murdered while in captivity. Spiegelman illustrates his father's past, alongside his modern existence in New York State. The Nazis are drawn as cats, and the Jews mice. This story captures the tragedy of the Holocaust, not only for the survivors, but also for the families of those who experienced the terror of war. Spiegelman won the Pulitzer Prize in 1992 for this masterpiece.

"By the Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead" by Julie Anne Peters

2010-10-01T16:37:00.000-07:00

Daelyn has been bullied at school as long as she can remember. She's struggled with her weight and emotions, and her enemies taunt her everyday. Daelyn is determined to kill herself, since her last few attempts have failed. As far as she can see, failure is no longer an option and Daelyn becomes obsessed with researching suicide methods on-line. She's given up on talking. Her parents try to monitor her every move and won't let her out of their sight. A new boy, Santana, attempts a friendship (or more), and Daelyn isn't sure if she's willing to let anyone into her life. Everyone has a breaking point, and Daelyn is planning for her Day of Determination, her last day of her life. Can anything change her mind? There are always alternatives to suicide.

This is a very powerful and sad book, about how bullying can impact people. Whether on-line, or in-person, this story reminds us of how important it is to treat everyone with respect.

"Scars" by Cheryl Rainfield

2010-10-01T16:34:00.000-07:00

Kendra's memories are starting to resurface. She knows she's been abused, but she can't remember who hurt her. Her dreams and recollections are hazy, but she's sure it's someone who is close to her, and she's having problems trusting people. It's bad enough with the memories, but things have taken a turn for the worse. Her abuser has started to stalk her, to make sure she keeps quiet and doesn't remember.

Kendra has her art. Art gives her a way to express her emotions and anger. And she also has cutting. She knows it's dangerous and harmful, but sometimes it seems like the only way to become numb to her horrifying memories, and keep her abuser at a distance.

She develops a special friendship with Meghan. When Meghan discovers Kendra's past, her concern escalates as Meghan's self-destructive behavior spirals out of control.

"Dirty Little Secrets" by Cynthia Jaynes Omololu

2010-10-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Sixteen year old Lucy has always avoided having friends coming to her house. It's not that she doesn't have any friends, or isn't social. It's because her mother has a disease known as obsessive compulsive hoarding. Her mom can't throw anything away, and their house is so full of stuff and garbage, it's beyond shameful and embarrassing. Lucy is counting down the days until she turns 18 and can legally move out.

But she may not have to wait that long. Lucy's mom unexpectedly dies in the house, and Lucy is mortified. She can't have the paramedics come to the house and see the mess and garbage they've been living in.

Lucy is desperate to clean the house and keep the family secret safe

"Freak the Mighty" by W.R. Philbrick

2010-10-01T16:10:00.000-07:00

Maxwell Kane is too big and tall for his age. He's constantly teased and harassed at school due to his size and learning disability. He lives with his Gram and Grim, after his father (Killer Kane) was sent to prison for murdering his mother.

Kevin, nicknamed Freak, has a unique size, too. Due to a genetic birth defect, Freak is much smaller, and relies on crutches and braces to get around.

Max and Kevin are neighbors and they form a very unique friendship. Kevin uses his brain and Max uses his size and together they form "Freak the Mighty," and they fend off the bullies together.

This is a fantastic story of overcoming adversity, and the power of great friendships.

"The Pricker Boy" by Reade Scott Whinnem

2010-09-11T11:43:00.000-07:00

Stucks Cumberland is used to spending his summers at his parents lake house. It should be peaceful and serene with lots of swimming and relaxation. But there is an ancient, mysterious creature lurking in the woods. It's definitely not human, and local legend says its body is covered in sharp thorns, and it's on the hunt for new victims. Stucks and his friends have been haunted by nightmares, and begin to see strange and terrible things in the woods near their house. Is the Pricker Boy just part of their imagination, or are their lives actually in danger? This book terrified me. If you scare easily, make sure to read it in the daylight hours.

"Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins

2010-09-07T11:25:00.001-07:00

Why are the sequels never as good as the first installment?

Katniss should be happy and content. As a victor in the Hunger Games, she and Peeta have been guaranteed immunity and safety for their families. But the Capitol is a cruel place, and the districts are becoming unsettled. Being a hero proves to be more than Katniss bargained for and she is forced to the front of a fight she's not sure she can win. But in the meantime, both Peeta and Gale fight for her affections, and the love triangle continues....but what does the future hold for Panem, and what is really going on in district 13?

"From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" by E.L. Konigsburg

2010-09-02T18:29:00.000-07:00

Claudia is extremely bored with her normal routine. She wants to feel different and grown-up. She convinces her younger brother Jamie to run away with her. Claudia has the plan, and Jamie has the piggy bank, so together they should make a great team. They take the train from their small Connecticut town into New York City, where they take up residence at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Living at the museum is harder than you'd think. They have to hide from security guards, take baths in strange places, and they're on a fixed income. But they have plenty of time to admire and learn about art. Claudia becomes transfixed by one statue in particular, called Angel. Claudia suspects it was created by the famous artist Michelangelo, and she is determined to solve the mystery and find out the truth.

"Alchemy and Meggy Swan" by Karen Cushman

2010-08-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

Karen Cushman has done it again! The year is 1573 and Meggy Swan is sent to live with her father in London. He turns out to be a cruel and mean man, ignoring his daughter's arrival. He works as an alchemist, which is the science of turning metal into gold. Poor Meggy struggles with her legs, which have been disabled since birth and make walking a challenge. She endures taunting and teasing from the neighbors and school-children about her crutches and walking limp. Things go from bad to worse. Her father forgets to feed her, and Meggy is forced to give up her pet goose, as her dad doesn't think it's a suitable pet. Then Meggy discovers the unthinkable, her father is up to no good, and it's up to Meggy to make some tough choices. This is a wonderful historical fiction for 5th-8th grade, set in Elizabethan London. Wonderful language and an feisty and independent female lead.

"Glimpse" by Carol Lynch Williams

2010-07-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Ellen Hopkins has new competition for novels in verse. Sisters Hope and Lizzie have a very close, loving friendship. But when Lizzie tries to commit suicide, Hope struggles to understand why. Lizzie is sent to a mental hospital for observation. Their mother isn't the best role model and their father died in a car accident years ago. The secrets revealed at the end are powerful and dark.

"Nothing" by Janne Teller

2010-06-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

A fellow librarian told me to read this book, and librarians do give the best recommendations. I'm only a little biased.

Pierre Anthon is convinced that "Nothing matters." "From the moment you are born, you start to die."

Pierre is so confident in his beliefs; he leaves school and spends his days sitting in a tree, taunting his fellow classmates. He throws plums, and yells at everyone that there is nothing special about their lives, the universe or anything.

His classmates are determined to prove him wrong. They try to argue with him, but are unsuccessful. Throwing rocks at him doesn’t help him shut up either. So, they decide to create a pile of meaningful objects to prove to Pierre that life does indeed stand for something.

The students take turns adding their personal objects to the pile: books, a fishing pole, a pair of sandals….each contribution becomes more extreme and intense to prove their point, and the end result is both morbid and frightening.

What constitutes meaning? Do material objects hold importance? How do you determine what has value?

This is a wonderful, but chilling, look at ourselves, and how we attach significance to our lives.

This book is translated from the Danish by Martin Aitken.

"Bleeding Violet" by Dia Reeves

2010-06-03T18:14:00.001-07:00

This book is whack. It’s really messed up. If you are looking for clean and uplifting, do not go anywhere near this book. But it’s also amazing… how did the author get these ideas into words?

Hanna is bi-polar and has not been taking her medication. She is prone to vivid hallucinations. Sometimes she even has conversations with her dead father.

Fed up living with her aunt, she bludgeons her on the head with a rolling pin, leaving her to die. Hannah then hitchhikes to Portero, where her biological mom is living. Hannah is ready to reconnect, but they haven’t seen each other in years, and they do not have a healthy relationship. It’s hateful, combative and destructive.

And that’s just the beginning chapters…

Hannah starts over in a new school where her hallucinations take on a new level. This town is not welcoming to visitors. Something (or someone) is living in the glass windows, the neighborhood is filled with mystical portals, and there is an abundance of body parts and blood everywhere. But is she really seeing things, or has everyone gone mad? And her mom is not acting like her normal, spiteful self. Something evil is contaminating their house.

This book is not for the faint of heart. Especially if you’re squeamish with blood, pus, and unidentifiable alien fluids. It’s raw, vulgar, and disturbing. But, there is a romantic vein when Hannah finds love and lust with her new boyfriend, Wyatt. He’s supposedly one of the “good guys.” But when people are possessed, demons are in the shadows, and charms work their magic, it’s hard to know who to trust. Luckily, Hannah excels at making irrational decisions. And, she has a horrific violent streak that she’s not afraid to use. The town of Portero needs to watch its back.

This book is geared towards teens. I would recommend for older teens, LOTS of violence, drugs and sex. Also good for adults!

"Twilight : The Graphic Novel, Vol. 1" by Stephenie Meyer

2010-05-22T14:42:00.000-07:00

For those who are looking for more "Twilight," here you go! This is the first volume in a new graphic novel series by Stephenie Meyer. Illustrated by Young Kim

"The Carrie Diaries" by Candace Bushnell

2010-05-22T14:40:00.000-07:00

How did Carrie Bradshaw end up a sex columnist in New York City? For all those Sex and the City fans, this is the story of Carrie as a high school senior, written for a teen audience. She is navigating her way through the high school social scene, dodging clique drama, and developing her independent, fiesty spirit. Carrie is already practicing the art of juggling boyfriends -- Sebastian, the gorgeous bad boy, and George, the intellectual, older man. Struggling with what to do with her life after college, she flounders between pursuing science and is also drawn to creative writing. There is a healthy dose of fashion and style, and of course sex. But more conversation about, than actual deeds, Carrie is still a virgin. Lots of drinking. Lots. Good for older teens.

"The Arrival" by Shaun Tan

2010-05-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

With the current immigration legislation in Arizona, I was feeling inspired to re-read “The Arrival.” This book can transport you to a place that is truly magical, mysterious and enticing, all without using any words. In my mind, this is a true work of genius. A man packs up everything his owns, leaves his home and family, and takes a voyage to a new place. The trip is long, noisy and crowded. He’s alone and facing a strange and uncertain place, filled with mystical creatures and strange landscapes. Language barriers pose challenges with communication and finding work. He attempts to make a new life, aided by the support of new friends. This simple story about finding your place in the world holds true for anyone who has left home in search of a new life. Shaun Tan is one of my favorite illustrators and I consider this his magnum opus. Although I love "Tales from Outer Suburbia" and its take on current urban dwellings and the aliens who habitat them.

"Boom!" by Mark Haddon

2010-05-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

Jimbo and Charlie are bored. Their families are normal, their siblings annoying, and their parents are predictable. When they overhear two of their teachers talking in a secret language, they set off to investigate the mystery. At the time, it seemed like a good idea to break into their history teacher's house. But what they find in her attic proves their teachers are really up to no good, and may be conspiring to take over the planet! Mark Haddon is the author of "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time." This is another clever, well constructed, who-dunnit geared for a younger audience, I'd say 3rd - 7th grade. British humor and hilarious plays on words. I laughed out loud.

"The Line" by Terri Hall

2010-05-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

The Line is a government created boundary that separates the United States from a place known as Away. Rachel and her mom live on The Property, where her mom works as a housekeeper for Ms. Moore. No one is allowed to cross The Line, as it's meant to prevent The Others from coming into the United States. No one really knows much about The Others, supposedly they were trapped after a large-scale war, and the government wants to keep them separate. Rachel's mom has always been a skeptic of the government and encourages her daughter to think independently and do what's right and fair. But when someone or something makes contact from the other side of the Line, Rachel has to decide who's telling the truth. If you liked "The Giver" by Lois Lowry, you will love "The Line"!

"The Kite Rider" by Geraldine McCaughrean

2010-04-19T14:40:00.000-07:00

What if you had to do everything your parents told you to? In 13th century China, kids have to obey their elders with respect. Even if they are mean, horrible people!

Young Haoyou sees his father murdered by his evil boss. His family is poor and doesn't have enough food to eat. His uncle Bo is now in charge of things, but he spends all the family money gambling and drinking. Uncle Bo makes Haoyou take a job with the traveling circus. But not just any job...he's the amazing flying boy on a kite. It's dangerous, thrilling and gives him notoriety and exposure to the great ruler Kublai Khan. The circus is an exciting life, but being away from his mother and sister is tough....will life ever get any easier?

"Hold Still" by Nina LaCour

2010-04-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

Caitlin should have seen it coming. She should have been able to save her. Her best friend, Ingrid, committed suicide and Caitlin is overcome with guilt about her inability to prevent this tragedy.

Returning to school for her junior year should have provided a sense of normalcy. But her fellow classmates are unsure how to deal with her emotions, and she finds herself lonely, irritable and confused. Caitlin becomes friends with a new student, Dylan, and starts hanging out with her crush, Taylor. Both provide temporary distraction from her pain.

Caitlin’s parents are concerned about her behavior and encourage her to seek therapy. Caitlin finds Ingrid’s diary tucked under her bed. As she reads through her diary entries, she’s confronted with the reality of her friend’s depression and how well she hid her insecurities and emotions. There’s a lot she has to learn about her best friend, and herself. This is a powerful, raw, first novel, with beautiful illustrations, and hand-written diary entries. I highly recommended Hold Still for anyone who enjoyed Thirteen Reasons Why.

"The Graveyard Book" by Neil Gaiman

2010-03-22T13:34:00.000-07:00

It’s the middle of the night, and everyone in the house is sound asleep. Everyone that is, except for the man, Jack.

"There was a hand in the darkness, and it held a knife."

Jack murders the entire family, except for the baby boy. He makes a swift escape by crawling over his crib railing. He totters down the stairs, out the front door, and down the street to the nearby graveyard.

Citizens of the graveyard hold an emergency meeting to decide what to do with the child. Two of the cemetery’s dead inhabitants, Mr. and Mrs. Owens agree to adopt the orphaned toddler. They name him Nobody Owens, or Bod, for short.

Nobody is raised by ghosts, and tutored by wise and knowledgeable local residents. He’s given special privileges, normally reserved for the deceased, including haunting, dreamwalking and becoming invisible.

But Nobody’s childhood in a graveyard has its own challenges. Especially when the man who murdered his family is still on the loose, and out to finish the job.

This is a creepy, spine-tingling tale, filled with haunted crypts and menacing ghouls.

"Color of Heaven" by Kim Dong Hwa

2010-02-19T16:17:00.000-08:00

This is the final installment in the Color trilogy by Hwa, illustrating his mother's adolescence in rural Korea. This story resumes when Duksam, Elwa's true love, leaves the village to work on a fishing boat. Elwa patiently waits for his return, as he's promised to build her a house and marry her. Elwa and her mother are pining for their men, and taking in the simple pleasures in their daily routine. Korean symbolism, folklore and superstition are interspersed in this calm and tender story about a mother and daughter's relationship, and the men in their lives. Some sexual situations, best for older teens.

"Calamity Jack" by Shannon and Dean Hale

2010-02-05T13:58:00.000-08:00

Jack (of beanstalk fame) is always trying to set things right, even when it involves stealing from the rich and powerful to teach them a lesson. He’s been in his fair share of trouble, especially when he decides to break into a certain giant’s house and steal some golden eggs. One tiny bean turns into a giant green tower, and Jack turns into a wanted man. He’s forced to leave his hometown, his mother, and ventures into the Wild West, where he joins forces with Rapunzel. Years pass, and Jack returns home, only to find the giant has taken over the town, and is holding his mother prisoner. Jack and Rapunzel join forces, and with the help of magic pixies, justice may finally be served.

This is a great retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, with an added punch of adventure and a surprising love triangle. Shannon and Dean Hale also wrote Rapunzel’s Revenge, another awesome fairy tale twist.

"The Storm in the Barn" by Matt Phelan

2010-02-03T19:41:00.000-08:00

It hasn't rained in years. The fields are dried up, crops are ruined and people are starting to leave town. The year is 1937, and Jack's family is living in the middle of the Dust Bowl. Jack can't tell if he's going crazy, or experiencing "dust dementia" when he discovers a mysterious creature living in the neighbor's barn. This book won the Scott O'Dell award for Historical Fiction.

"When You Reach Me" by Rebecca Stead

2010-01-22T15:50:00.001-08:00

Bad things keep happening to Miranda. Her friend Sal gets beat up on the street. The apartment she shares with her mom gets broken into. And her best girlfriends are being brats!

Someone, somewhere, knows when and where these bad things are going to happen. Miranda keeps receiving mysterious notes that give specific details on what's going to happen in Miranda's life. And they come true! How is this possible?

Miranda lives in New York City. She's street smart, curious and one sharp student. She doesn't necessarily believe in magic, but there has to be a reasonable explanation.

If you liked "A Wrinkle in Time", you will love, love, love this book!

"Also Known As Harper" by Ann Haywood Leal

2010-01-15T16:26:00.000-08:00

5th grade Harper has a lot on her mind. Her dad left home, after arguing with her mom about his drinking. Harper, her younger brother Hem, and her mom are evicted from their apartment after not paying their rent. Things only seem to get worse. But Harper has always found comfort in her words. She's even named after her mom's favorite book, "To Kill A Mockingbird." So when a poetry competition comes up at school, Harper is confident she's got a shot at winning. But things don't go according to plan, when her family is forced to move.

"The Maze Runner" by James Dashner

2009-12-17T15:58:00.000-08:00

Thomas is hit with amnesia, when he wakes up in an elevator that delivers him to the Glade. The Glade is home to about 60 teenage boys, a contained environment, cut off from the outside world. They've been there about 2 years, but none of them have any recollection of how they got there, and they can't seem to find a way out.

The Glade is attached to a giant maze, whose gates open every morning and close every night. The maze is home to the terrifying Grievers, giant balls of metal and flesh, ready to eat anything, including boys who enter the maze.

The maze seems like a viable exit, yet attempts to navigate the labyrinth prove unsuccessful. It's hard to chart a map when your terrain keeps changing shape!

Supplies are mysteriously delivered to the Glade, and the boys are determined to survive.

Wierd things start to happen, including a girl arriving to the Glade, with a note explaining that everything is about to change. How did they get there? Who's in charge of this reality? Will they be able to find a way home?

If you liked The Hunger Games, you will LOVE The Maze Runner!

"Wintergirls" by Laurie Halse Anderson

2009-12-12T13:09:00.000-08:00

Lia and Cassie have been best friends for years. They are competing against each other in a battle of will power, strength and determination to see who can get the skinniest. They were encouraging each other to self destruct and Cassie won.

Cassie died from complications from bulimia.

Being dead doesn’t stop Cassie from haunting Lia. Her ghost is following Lia and tempting her to join her on the other side. Cassie encourages Lia to self destruct, cutting and continuing to starve herself. Lia is forced into treatment by her parents, but it’s hard to recover when your best friend is telling you to self destruct.

"Ash" by Malinda Lo

2009-12-03T15:55:00.001-08:00

The story of Cinderella has been retold hundreds of times, each with its own variation on the classic rags to riches story. My favorite version usually involves one of the step-sisters chopping off their toes to try to fit the magic slipper.

Ash has a fairly miserable existence. After her father's death, she is sent to live with her horrid stepmother and two spoiled brats for stepsisters. Forced to become a servant to them, her days are long and tiresome, and she dreams of escape.

But at least the house is nice. It's a grand estate set on the edge of the ancient Royal Woods. This is where Ash stumbles across the King's Huntress, Kaisa, and strikes up an unlikely friendship.

Ash spends most of her leisure time in the woods, and loves the tranquility and serene beauty. Some claim that a magical realm still persists in the depths of the woods. When she was little, Ash's mother read fairy tales to her, and some think her mother had a special connection to the fairy world

On one of her explorations, Ash meets Sidhean, her mystical fairy godfather. Sidhean provides Ash with enough magic to escape her stepfamily and attend the royal ball where the prince will choose his new bride.

Ash is torn between her friendship with Kaisa, her feelings towards the prince and finding her place in the universe, her reality or the fairy world.

A beautiful twist on a classic with a very surprising ending.

"The Color of Earth" by Kim Dong Hwa

2009-11-24T12:19:00.001-08:00

This is the first in a trilogy from Kim Dong Hwa (Color of Earth and Color of Heaven are 2 & 3). Each chapter corresponds to a year in young Ehwa's adolescence in rural Korea. Ehwa lives with her widowed mother who runs a modest, but successful tavern. The story follows Ehwa and her explorations in lust and love as she navigates puberty. This elegant manhwa (Korean comic) details two women's relationships with men, and the gossip and attention they draw in their small village. Delicate drawings and elegant language work to make this a beautiful story. With all of the story's feminine characteristics, it was surprising to learn the author is a man. Good for 8th grade and up.

"A.D. New Orleans After the Deluge" by Josh Neufeld

2009-11-24T11:31:00.000-08:00

On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina hit land, causing over 1,800 deaths in Louisiana and Mississippi. The devastation from this storm, in conjunction with the breaks in the levees, continues to impact the South, and especially New Orleans.

In A.D. New Orleans After the Deluge, Josh Neufeld tells the true story of 7 individuals who were there to witness the events that took place during this disaster.

Some evacuated. Some stayed. Some survived. Some didn't. Some returned home. Some never did.

Neufeld's brilliant cartoons illustrate a city that is under attack, and its citizens under siege. A wonderful snapshot into the lives of true survivors, and their attachment to the people and city they love.

Some language, good for high school and up.

"Love You Hate You Miss You" by Elizabeth Scott

2009-11-20T12:26:00.000-08:00

Amy was the only one to survive the car crash. She was the one who made them leave the party. She was the one who told Julia to drive. Amy feels responsible for killing her best friend.

Amy and Julia were inseparable. Julia was one of those amazing people. She had the best attitude, the coolest outfits and knew of all the great parties. They were a perfectly matched team and no one will ever be able to replace her.

Amy's parents made her go to rehab to deal with her alcohol problems. Her perfect parents are trying to be loving and encouraging, but Amy is frustrated by their attentive support.

Surviving high school without Julia is going to be impossible. Everyone knows about her drinking problems and what she did to her best friend.

How can you apologize to someone when they're no longer here?

"Brendan Buckley's Universe and Everything In It" by Sundee T. Frazier

2009-11-02T10:25:00.000-08:00

Brendan is into science. There are so many questions to find the answers to, and he keeps them all in his top secret notebook of scientific discovery. He is mastering the study of Tae Kwon Do, and is working on creating his own rock collection. Brendan is thrilled to meet Ed DeBose, who is a famous rock collector. He is even more excited when he learns that Ed is actually his long-lost grandpa! Brendan's parents don't want to talk about why Ed hasn't been part of the family. Can Brendan use his detective powers to solve the mystery?

"The Summer I Turned Pretty" by Jenny Han

2009-10-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

As long as she can remember, Isabel (aka Belly) has spent every summer at the beach. It's always the same people - her mom, her brother Stephen, her mom's best friend Susannah, and Susannah's two sons, Conrad and Jeremiah. Gorgeous beach house, private pool where Belly loves to swim, and the leisurely pace of summer vacation. Belly's grown up with Conrad and Jeremiah, but the summer she turns 16, things get complicated. Jeremiah obviously has a crush on Belly, but Belly is into Conrad, who doesn't have the same feelings. Belly meets Cam at a beach bonfire and a relationship blossoms. What happens when summer is over and everyone goes home? Belly is surrounded by boys, but struggles with her emotions, why does love have to be so hard?

"Glass" by Ellen Hopkins

2009-10-06T14:16:00.000-07:00

This is the sequel to "Crank," the story of how Kristina Snow met the monster, or crystal methamphetamine. Kristina's taking care of her new baby, studying for the GED and attempting to get her life back on track. She finds herself in a dark depression and she turns to the monster for temporary relief. Her addiction escalates and spirals out of control. This is a heartbreaking story of Kristina's struggle with drugs, and how her negative choices damage her body and her relationships with those she loves, including her young son. Powerful and disturbing.

"Extra Credit" by Andrew Clements

2009-10-06T14:00:00.000-07:00

Abby's grades are failing, and her teachers inform her she's got to repeat 6th grade. How embarrassing, can it get any worse? There's only one way to redeem herself, a special extra credit project. Abby is assigned a penpal in Afghanistan, a boy named Sadeed. They exchange letters and learn about each other's lives. Abby is addicted to rock climbing, but lives in flat Illinois. Sadeed lives among some of the world's highest mountains, yet focuses on his studies and helps out with his family's business. They develop a special friendship even though their countries are thousands of miles apart.

"Emily the Strange - The Lost Days" by Rob Reger and Jessica Gruner

2009-09-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

Strange things are happening in the town of Blackrock. This is where Emily finds herself, only she can’t remember how or why she’s ended up here. She’s got amnesia. Blackrock is beige, boring and incredibly lame. Emily starts investigating who she is, snooping on the locals and researching who is out to get her. Clad in black with feline companions, Emily does not blend in well. She's living in a cardboard box outside of her favorite coffee shop. And her evil twin shows up and starts making things even more confusing...when will she get her memory back??

"If I Stay" by Gayle Forman

2009-09-22T11:57:00.000-07:00

Music is everywhere in Mia's life. Her parents were rockers. She's an accomplished cellist. Her boyfriend Adam has his own punk band. She's applied to Julliard and life after high school is finally showing more potential.

But one snowy morning everything changes. Mia and her family are driving along the highway when a semi-truck collides with their car, instantly killing Mia's parents and her younger brother. Mia finds herself outside her own body, not dead, not alive, and not knowing what to do. As a ghost-like spirit, Mia spends time at the hospital, observing her own coma state. Limbo is confusing....should she join her family in the afterlife, or return to her human body? Is this even Mia's decision to make?

Life without her parents and brother would be devastating. But, at 17 years old, is she ready to give up on what the future may hold?

This is a beautifully written book, full of grace and possibilities. It's a quick read, wonderful for fans of "The Lovely Bones" or "Elsewhere."

"Because I Am Furniture" by Thalia Chaltas

2009-09-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

Anke lives in a violent house. Her dad regularly beats her mom and her two older siblings, but doesn't lift a finger towards Anke. She craves attention, but being ignored is proving to be a safer bet. High school's started and gives her some solace from home. Competing on the school's volleyball team introduces her to new girlfriends. Could a boyfriend be on the horizon? Chaltas tells Anke's story in verse poetry - concise, haunting and devastating. This is a must for any fans of Ellen Hopkins or Dave Peltzer.

"Skulduggery Pleasant" by Derek Landy

2009-08-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

Stephanie's was always fascinated by her Uncle Gordon. He wrote magical horror stories and lived in a strange mansion. After her uncle dies, Stephanie is shocked to find he left her his estate, complete with hidden passageways and dark secrets. It turns out her Uncle Gordon had access to another world, one where an ancient weapon holds all power and control. Stephanie is being hunted by an evil sorcerer who is searching for this weapon. Uncle Gordon kept weird company while he was alive. His old friend, Skulduggery Pleasant, shows up at his house, surprising Stephanie. Skulduggery is wise, clever and has awesome detective skills....the only problem? He's a skeleton! Let the crazy adventure begin. This is the first book in a new series by Derek Landy. His website has awesome trailers for the books, check it out at http://www.skulduggerypleasant.com/us/

"Rapunzel's Revenge" by Shannon and Dean Hale

2009-07-20T14:15:00.001-07:00

Rapunzel discovers her stepmother’s evil powers after sneaking over the village’s walls. As punishment, she is imprisoned in a tree tower, and must use her long locks to escape. Told in graphic novel fashion, this rebellious cowgirl is ready to take on the Wild West.

"A Map of the Known World" by Lisa Ann Sandell

2009-07-06T16:22:00.000-07:00

Cora's older brother Nate was killed in a car accident, and her grieving family is falling apart. The teachers and students at Nate's old high school take pity on her and she is losing her best friend to the popular crowd. But art class is her escape. Cora has a passion is for making maps -- maps of places she's been and where she wants to go. Her parents don't approve of Cora hanging out with Damian. He was her brother's best friend, and was riding with him during the accident. But Damian seems sincere, so Cora continues to see him behind her parents' back. Her art teacher encourages her to apply for an art program in London and life appears to be improving. As their romance blossoms, Cora learns of a sensitive side of her brother she didn't know existed.

"Hatchet" by Gary Paulsen

2009-06-01T14:36:00.000-07:00

Brian's parents are in the middle of divorce. His dad lives in Canada, and Brian is on his way for a visit, traveling in a single-engine plane. The pilot dies of a heart attack, leaving Brian responsible for landing the plane. He manages a soft crash into a lake, only to find he's alone in the wilderness, surrounded by beauty and danger. The plane had gone off course for hours, making rescue seem impossible. Armed only with a hatchet his mom gave him, Brian builds a shelter, creates fire and forges for fish and berries. He uses his imagination and education to brace the elements and feed himself. Will he ever be found?

"Flipped" by Wendelin Van Draanen

2009-05-23T11:40:00.000-07:00

Juli's got a big time crush on Bryce. Bryce is totally not interested.

Juli tends to live in her own universe, growing chickens, saving the planet, and speaking her mind.

Bryce falls in with the popular kids, follows their advice and tries to avoid Juli at all times.

It doesn't help things that Bryce and Juli have lived across the street from each other since the 2nd grade.

This book is one of my favorites, told in alternating chapters from both Juli and Bryce's perspective on the situation.

Someone is about to change their mind, and *flip* their thinking. Who's it going to be, and will they end up dating? Curious minds want to find out!

"Call of the Wild" by Jack London

2009-05-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

Buck is pretty happy living the dog life in sunny California. Part St. Bernard, part Scotch shepherd, he's sturdy, dependable, and one of his master's favorites. A servant kidnaps Buck, and sells him to men heading north on a steam train. Hundreds of people are looking for something small, valuable and yellow....gold! It's the height of the Alaska gold rush, and Buck is put to work as a sled dog, hauling heavy equipment and being worked to the bone. Set among the rugged Klondike wilderness, this is an excellent story of animal instinct, survival and the spirit of the wilderness.

"Grayson" by Lynne Cox

2009-05-22T17:32:00.000-07:00

Lynne Cox is a long distance swimmer. She's swam both the English and Catalina Channels and wrote an fascinating account of cold water adventures in her book, "Swimming to Antarctica." When Lynne was 17, she was doing a training swim off the coast of Seal Beach, California. She was wrapping up her workout when she discovered she was accompanied by something large and dark swimming beneath her. Terrified by the thought of sharks, she immediately headed for shore. Moments later, she realized it wasn't a shark at all, but a baby gray whale, who had lost its mother and was floundering around lost. Lynne spent the morning with the baby whale, hoping to reunite him with its mother. This is a touching story about the relationship between humans and animals and a must read for all marine mammal fans.

"Boys are Dogs" by Leslie Margolis

2009-04-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

Sixth grade Annabelle just moved into a new house with her mom and her mom's boyfriend Ted Weeble. Annabelle creates a secret nickname for Ted, Dweeble, which is very fitting with his dorky running shorts and nerdy music. New house equals a new school, and her new middle school is filled with pesky boys that take great pleasure in teasing and tormenting Annabelle. Mom and Ted surprise Annabelle with a new puppy, hoping the distraction will help her adjust. Annabelle soon discovers that boys and dogs have a lot in common, and dog training is coming in very useful for putting boys in their place! This is a funny read, Annabelle is super clever and confident.

"Anatomy of Wings" by Karen Foxlee

2009-04-30T10:11:00.000-07:00

Jenny was enamored with her older sister, Beth. Beth had grace, charm and beauty, and made everything appear effortless. In this novel, Jenny recounts their adolescence in a small, Australian mining town. Their neighbors and family watch Beth self-destruct, as she morphs from an innocent young girl into a mischievous delinquent. Spiraling out of control, Beth is earning an unfavorable reputation around town, and her parents are out of ideas on how to tame their wild daughter.

Beth dies from an accidental fall from the town’s water tower and the family is hit hard by grief. Jenny loses her singing voice, their spiritual grandmother becomes estranged from the family, and her parents are on the brink of splitting up. Someone in town knows what was going through Beth’s head before her untimely death. Jenny is determined to piece together the clues, relying on a box of Beth’s keepsakes.

Being a teenager doesn’t last forever, but it sure can feel permanent when you’re living it. Beth’s premature death is a reminder of the struggle of adolescence and the mindset of youth. This is a captivating coming-of-age novel, good for 8th grade and up.

"Pride of Baghdad" by Brian Vaughn

2009-04-23T16:33:00.001-07:00

When the United States bombed Iraq in 2003, civilians weren't the only casualty. This graphic novel is based on the true story of 4 lions that escaped captivity from the Baghdad zoo, and were loose on the streets of Baghdad. For the first time, these domesticated animals must find their own food and defend themselves against predators. The illustrations showcase the harsh, violent realities of a city caught in the mist of war. This book is not intended for weak stomachs. War is violence, and this book emphasizes how it affects all members of a society, including the animal world.

Vaughn has proven himself as an emerging talent in the comic industry. He's the author of the popular Runaways series and won the Eisner Award for his work Y: The Last Man.

"Three Cups of Tea - One Man's Journey to Change the World...One Child at a Time - The Young Reader's Edition" by Greg Mortenson

2009-04-07T16:55:00.000-07:00

Last year KCLS participated in King County Reads - where we encouraged everyone to read Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson. I was thrilled to discover this new version of the book adapted by Sarah Thomson. If you missed the original, here's the basic story. Greg Mortenson took off traveling to the middle east where he tried to climb K2, the 2nd highest mountain in the world, and some would argue the most challenging. He did not make the summit and upon his descent, he strayed from the trail and got lost. Eventually he stumbled into a remote village, where locals wholeheartedly welcomed him and nursed him back to health with food and kindness. He was shocked to see the village's school, its lack of teachers and supplies. Students were copying their lessons with sticks in the dirt. Greg was inspired by their desire to learn and vowed to return to their village and build them a proper school, and so he did. To date, as director of the Central Asian Institute, Greg has constructed over 50 schools and is dedicated to improving the quality of education for these children, especially young girls. This is a powerful, moving humanitarian story and I'm so excited to see it accessible for a younger audience. It's a great way to share Greg's story with your kids, your students or anyone who wants a simplified version of his story. The book has a great Q&A with Greg's daughter Amira, and information on Pennies for Peace, a fundraising opportunity for interested students. Whereas a penny in American is considered worthless, in Pakistan or Afghanistan a penny can purchase a pencil and help promote education and literacy. Color photographs make a stunning addition and I wish they had been included in the original. Highly recommended all around!

"Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw" by Jeff Kinney

2009-04-07T16:36:00.000-07:00

Greg Heffley is back, and he's wimpy as ever. His dad Frank is ready to turn Greg into a man, but that's proving harder than it looks. Is military school the solution? Greg is the king of laziness and will do anything to get out of real work. All my favorite characters make an appearance in this edition - Rowley, Rodrick and Manny. This series continues to crack me up! Will Greg be the star on his soccer team? Will he get a new girlfriend? The movie is coming out soon, so now's a good time to get caught up on this hilarious series.

"The Burn Journals" by Brent Runyon

2009-03-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

When Brent was 14 years old, he poured gasoline on himself and lit himself on fire. He survived but suffered from severe burns over 85% of his body. The Burn Journals is Brent's story of the year following this fateful day and his journey towards recovery. After a year of working on physical therapy and struggling with counseling sessions, Brent re-enters high school and the life he left. This is a true story of his suicide attempt, its affect on his family, and his change in outlook on life and living. This is a true story and reminded me of Girl Interrupted and Patricia McCormick's Cut. Intriguing memoir, probably best for 8th grade and up.

"The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins

2009-03-16T14:17:00.000-07:00

Twelve districts surround the powerful Capitol in the futuristic society of the Panem. Every year, each district sacrifices two of its youth, chosen by lottery, to play in the Hunger Games. In these games, the chosen participants, or tributes, must fight to the death in a staged arena to claim victory for their district. Much like a reality television show, the spectators place bets on the winners and support their local tributes. When the lottery draws Prim’s name from District 12, her older sister Katniss immediately volunteers to protect her and take her place. Katniss is paired up with Peeta, her classmate from childhood, and together they must fight against the other 22 tributes for their lives.

Katniss is known to be a survivor. Ever since her father’s untimely death, she has worked to support her family, using her hunting and gathering skills to feed her family. But can she outsmart her competitors and bring valor and honor to her district?

I loved all the twists and turns in this story. The drama of reality television keeps the suspense level high and the gladiator fight scenes escalated my heart rate. The survival mechanisms Katniss and Peeta used will surprise you, and the hidden love story will enthrall you.

The Hunger Games is the first book in a new series by Suzanne Collins, the same author who brought us Gregor the Overlander and the Underland Chronicles.

"Identical" by Ellen Hopkins

2009-02-27T13:36:00.000-08:00

Identical twins Kaeleigh and Raeanne lead what looks like the perfect life. But appearances can be deceiving. Eight years ago, their father, a respected judge, was involved in a fatal car accident. Since the incident, their home life has been in shambles. Their mother is embarked on an ambitious campaign for congress, and is emotionally unavailable. Kaeleigh endures repulsive sexual abuse from her father, and turns to cutting and bulimia to stifle her pain. Raeanne rebels against her family and finds solace in drugs and promiscuity. Each twin tells her side of the story in alternating verse. This is raw emotion, and will draw the reader in, but not for the faint of heart. Best for 9th and up.

"Tales from Outer Suburbia" by Shaun Tan

2009-02-18T17:39:00.000-08:00

Strip malls, track housing, and white picket fences jump into my mind when I think of suburbia. Everything's the same, people are happy and stability and routine are the norm.

Shaun Tan has thrown this stereotypical image in the garbage. This quirky collection of 15 concise graphic stories has uprooted every notion I held about suburban life.

Magical surrealism surrounds the story Eric, when an unexpected exchange student gives his host family an unworldly symbol of gratitude for their hospitality.

Grandpa's Story describes how two young lovers were sent away before their wedding "past the factories and landfills" and "beyond all the signs and roads." Their epic journey forces them to leave the safety of the neighborhood and they encounter disturbing creatures and imagined universes, embellished by Tan's glorious illustrations.

Two siblings embark on a scavenger hunt to find where their map ends in Our Expedition, and each household is given its own inter-continental ballistic missile in alert but not alarmed.

These modern fairy tales blew me away with their stunning drawings, quirky characters and a mysticism that left my imagination wanting more. Tales from Outer Suburbia are ideal stories for anyone wanting to escape the normalcy of suburban life.

If you haven't heard of Shaun Tan before, he is a very talented illustrator from Western Australia. His book The Arrival was a New York Times bestseller and he has received high praise and numerous awards for his work. You can learn more about Shaun and view his art at http://www.shauntan.net/

"13 Reasons Why" by Jay Asher

2009-02-13T11:48:00.002-08:00

Clay Jensen receives a mysterious package of cassette tapes. Upon listening to the first tape, he discovers that they are from his classmate, Hannah Baker, who committed suicide two weeks earlier. Hannah narrates her life at high school, revealing 13 people who influenced her, and how she came to the conclusion to take her own life.

Clay and Hannah went to school together, worked together at the movie theatre and even had the potential for romantic involvement. As Clay listens to Hannah's story, he is devastated to learn about her true feelings and inner turmoil. Hannah wants all 13 people to listen to her, and gives detailed instructions on retracing her steps in the time before her death.

The Centers for Disease control report that it is the third leading cause of death, behind accidents and homicide, of people aged 15 to 24. If you need to talk to someone about suicide, you can call 1-800-suicide or visit http://www.hopeline.com/

2009-02-13T11:48:00.001-08:00

"The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks" by E. Lockhart

2009-02-04T17:15:00.001-08:00

Frankie didn't plan on becoming a criminal mastermind, it just sort of happened...She used to be part of the geek squad, complete with debate club, and awkward, nerdy friends. But something changes her sophomore year, and she finds herself dating gorgeous senior, Matthew Livingstone. Alabaster Preparatory Academy has a long standing tradition, a secret society called the Loyal Order of the Basset Hounds. It's been around for decades and Frankie's own father was part of this good old boys club. This exclusive fraternity is known for throwing the best parties and masterminding the most elaborate pranks the school has ever seen. The only problem is that it's a brotherhood, which means no girls allowed. Frankie doesn't like to be excluded, and she's used to getting her way. Her feminine competitive nature comes out and Frankie's determined to get into this inner circle, even if it comes with the risk of getting suspended!!

"Suicide Notes" by Michael Thomas Ford

2009-01-23T15:35:00.000-08:00

15-year old Jeff is in the nuthouse, the psychiatric ward of a mental institution, for attempting to commit suicide. But he didn't do it on purpose. At least he didn't mean to. He's got 45 days of treatment to explain to his counselor why this is all a big mistake. At first Jeff is opposed to group therapy and doesn't want to discuss his personal issues with all the other locked up teenagers. But after he gets befriends a few insiders, he realizes everyone has issues and maybe he's just been ignoring one big issue he didn't want to face. His relationship with his best friend, Allie, may have more to do with his suicide attempt than he's willing to admit. This book is part "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and part "Girl, Interrupted" but funnier. Good for 8th and up.

"Facing the Lion-Growing Up Masai on the African Savanna" by Joseph Lemasolai Lekuton

2009-01-23T15:15:00.001-08:00

Have you ever been face to face with a lion, scared he's going to eat you for dinner??

This is the true story of Joseph Lemasolai Lekuton who grew up as a Masai warrior in northern Kenya. His tribe is nomadic, which means they move their houses to where the food is plentiful. Growing up in Kenya is totally different than growing up in the United States. Joseph's family lives in a hut made of sticks and cow dung, and they survive on a diet based on cow milk. Cows are very sacred to the Masai and they depend on them for everything. Lions like to eat cows, and it's up to the Masai warriors to protect their friends, family and cattle from lion attacks.

"During the middle of the night, I woke to this huge sound - like rain, but not really like rain. I looked up. The starlight was gone, clouds were everywhere, and there was a light drizzle falling. But that wasn't the sound. The sound was of all the cows starting to pee. All of them, in every direction. And that is the sign of a lion. A hyena doesn't make them do that. An elephant doesn't make them do that. A person doesn't. Only the lion. We knew right away that a lion was about to attack us."

I was able to visit a Masai village when I went on safari in Africa last year. I like learning about their culture and was so excited to find this book. It also totally counts as a biography if you need to read one for school. Other people's lives are fascinating!

"The Compound" by S.A. Bodeen

2009-01-15T15:59:00.000-08:00

Being rich doesn't protect you from a nuclear attack! Eli and his family have been living in an bunker that his billionaire father built to protect his family. For 6 long years the family has been living underground in a plush mansion, but tensions are wearing thin. Grief plagues the family, as Eli's twin brother, Eddy, and their grandmother didn't make it into the compound in time and died outside the steel doors. Eli becomes suspicious of his father's weird behavior, and discovers the food supply may be contaminated. Things aren't what they seem and his worst fears are confirmed when he makes contact with the outside world...is things are o.k. outside, why are they still living under lock and key? And why is his father the only one who knows the code to get out?? Eli discovers his own father may be a madman, and it's up to him to help his family survive.

"Skim" by Mariko Tamaki

2009-01-13T10:19:00.000-08:00

Skim, a.k.a. Kim, struggles to fit in at her private Catholic high school. Skim and her best friend Lisa are considered goth, spending their free time on Wicca, tarot cards, smoking and hanging out in coffee shops. Drama teacher Ms. Archer becomes an infatuation for Skim, making her question her crush and her own sexuality. When a classmate commits suicide, Skim finds herself befriending his popular ex-girlfriend. She discovers grief is universal and most teenagers yearn for acceptance. Mariko's cousin, Jillian Tamaki, superbly illustrates Skim's depressive state in her wispy pencil lines and muted calligraphy.

"What I Saw and How I Lied" by Judy Blundell

2009-01-10T09:27:00.000-08:00

World War II has just ended, and Evie and her parents are on vacation in Palm Beach, Florida. It's just what the family needs - palm trees, warm weather and time away from the hustle and bustle of Queens, New York. Peter Coleridge shows up at their resort, and Evie is immediately smitten with the handsome veteran. It turns out that Peter and her step-father Joe served together during the war. Evie's relationship with Peter takes a romantic turn, and her parents do not approve of the age difference between them. It's hurricane season in Florida, and one powerful storm will inflict tragedy upon Evie's family. Her adoration of her gorgeous mother and loving step-father are forever tarnished, and she must come to terms with the grave reality of her family's situation. High suspense and great historical fiction. This book won the National Book Award for Young People's Literature.

"Wake" by Lisa McMann

2008-12-31T12:49:00.000-08:00

Dreaming can be pretty amazing. What do they mean? Where they come from? How do you interpret them? 17 year-old Janie is ready to dream on her own. Ever since she was a little girl, she gets sucked into other people's dreams when they fall asleep around her. Watching other peoples' fantasies and nightmares can be both exhilarating and terrifying. Janie knows her special power is unique, and she's forced to keep this secret to herself. That is, until people in their dreams start reaching out to her to save them. Janie can tell her friend Cabel is in need of serious help, but does she want to get involved? This is a first novel for Lisa McMann, but the 2nd installment in the series, Fade, is already set for publication on February 10, 2009.

Best of all, Lisa McMann is hosting a special essay contest for teens aged 14-18 to help them fund their dreams. The grand prize is $1,000! Check out Lisa's website for details: http://lisamcmann.com/

"Life Sucks" by Jessica Abel

2008-11-17T13:44:00.000-08:00

Life really sucks for Dave. He works nights at an L.A. convenience store. Years ago, his boss, Radu, bit Dave and turned him into a vampire - enslaving Dave to an eternity of mean customers and rotating hot dogs. Dave is too much of a wuss to kill his own victims, so he drinks plasma from the blood bank to stay alive. But when creepy vampire Wes goes after Dave's crush, will Dave find the courage to fight for the girl? Super cool illustrations, a great read for any goth vampire.

"Beneath My Mother's Feet" by Amjed Qamar

2008-11-17T13:25:00.000-08:00

14-year-old Nazia is a good daughter. She does well in school and enjoys time with her friends in Kararchi, Pakistan. Her entire world is turned upside down when her father becomes injured and can no longer work. When the family is evicted for not paying rent, Nazia’s mother pulls her out of school so she can help earn money by cleaning houses. Embarrassed by the social stigma of being a maid, Nazia misses her classes, friends and teachers. She faces a personal struggle between wanting to support and help her family, and desiring a better future for herself. This book has wonderful descriptions of life in modern day Pakistan.

"Blankets" by Craig Thompson

2008-10-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

There is something satisfying about finishing a 582 page book in 2 days. I love graphic novels! This is Craig Thompson's autobiography about growing up in a strict, Christian home in rural Wisconsin. He meets Raina, and immediately falls in love. He's feeling conflicted about his new feelings and the teachings of his church. Craig's illustrations are absolutely gorgeous and the scenes in the Wisconsin snow are magical and surreal. Craig and Raina's love story is beautifully told, but not sappy, and I only wish I had read this book years ago.

"Outside Beauty" by Cynthia Kadohata

2008-10-30T17:55:00.000-07:00

Helen Kimura is a gorgeous woman. Men are immediately attracted to her and easily fall in love. Helen is mom to 4 girls - Shelby, Maddie, Lakey, and Marilyn. The girls may have different fathers, but they all adore their mother and soak up her advice on beauty and men. One phone call threatens to split up the girls and send them each to live with their father. They are determined to stay together, and will go to great lengths to remain a family.

"The Missing Girl" By Norma Fox Mazer

2008-10-24T10:47:00.000-07:00

There are five girls in the Herbert family, and they depend on one another when their parents fail to do so. Beauty, Mim, Stevie, Fancy and Autumn. This story is told in alternating chapters, with each girl giving her perspective on their lives and daily activities. What the girls don't realize is that a local man has been following them, and is obsessed. His daily life begins to revolve around them and their activities. What starts as an innocent story about schoolgirls quickly turns into a psychological thriller, as the stalker does the unthinkable and changes the lives of the girls forever.

"Alive and Well In Prague, New York" by Daphne Grab

2008-10-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

Matisse misses life in New York City after she and her family move to Prague, a small town in upstate New York. Classmates at her new high school aren't cultured, don't appreciate the fine arts, and act like a bunch of hicks. Matisse's mother is a painter, and her father was a famous sculptor. They led successful careers in the big city, until Matisse's father was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease (PD) and symptoms finally prevented him from working. Life in Prague is supposed to be easier on his disease and the family, but Matisse struggles with coming to terms with her dad's condition, and the effect on the family.