YA Underground came about after I wrote a piece about self-published memoirs. For many years I have been actively trying to find new books for my kids that accurately reflect their lives (and believe me, it’s not all about being poor and downtrodden—if there were an African American Harry Potter I’d be more than thrilled). I hoped having a column (and committee, more on that in a future column) would send books my way—new authors to bring to light—especially for our teens’ reading pleasure. Let’s be clear. It is still by chance that I come across the ones that I do. I’d say I’ve read five books to every one that I feel is even worth mentioning.*

Marilyn Jones’s book is worth mentioning.

Jones has written a passionate memoir about her experience as an abuse survivor, single mother, crack addict, and college student. Written with humor and insight, From Crack to College & Vice Versa is equally real and thoughtful. Jones grew up with her loving grandparents, where food and nurturing were abundant. It was the 1970s in San Francisco’s Fillmore district, steeped in a strong Black Panther presence, and among many businesses owned by Black people, which instilled in her a sense of self-pride and love. At age 9, she moved into her father’s house where she encountered a toxic mixture of mental, physical, and sexual abuse. Jones was introduced to crack cocaine in 1985 when she was 19 years old.

In a detailed account filled with important insight, Jones describes the life of a crack addict: exchanging  her body for drugs, in and out of juvenile hall, county jails, drug treatment, and losing her children. She writes, “When I first got locked up, I was very angry, (but ultimately) I gave up fighting the system and adjusted my ability to function and not be so angry was looked upon as progress by the juvenile facility’s staff, but all I did was learn how to be in jail.” Also important are her insights and writing about the college experience, and the inherent racism and classism she experienced from curriculum to people being scared of her impassioned discussion style.

Self-published, Jones did a good job with the cover From Crack to College. The type face and interior design is functional but not particularly pretty, and the book could definitely, no doubt about it, use an editor to clean up the misspellings and repetitions, and improve overall flow and narration. In spite of the flaws, Jones’s voice shines through.

I gave the book to Janelle (not her real name), a biracial 17-year-old. She likes to read Chicken Soup for the Soul and inspirational books, and reads when she is not in the facility. When I asked for her feedback on From Crack to College, she said, “Has it been edited? Some stuff you can tell it hasn’t, because she said it twice. This is a book that wants to tell her story. It’s important because if you on crack you think there is no turning back, but it’s a major turnaround because some people can’t even get off weed and go to college. It gives you hope and inspiration and makes you want to go for something.”

In this genre, A Piece of Cake by Cupcake Brown still stands out as the superstar of drug memoirs, particularly for teens of color, but of interest to all teens. African American Cupcake is thrust into the foster care system when her mother dies. Experiencing abuse, gangs, and drug addiction, she completely turns her life circumstances around and becomes a lawyer and an internationally bestselling author. Well-written, filled with a ton of action and valuable insight, the memoir details clearly the interesting steps Brown took to change—it’s off the charts!

I asked Janelle to talk with me about a few of the books she read on the topic of crack, and terrifically, she explains where From Crack to College is in the spectrum. “Come Back: A Mother and Daughter’s Journey Through Hell and Back is a one—the book talked to me. Diary of a Crack Addict’s Wife is a two. The writing was more to tell the story with so much detail you can see it. It was kind of slow and I put it down a lot, because it was hard to find the action part. From Crack to College is a three. It was more like me writing a book and giving it to you. But it was real, talked like us, was shorter and easier to read. There was action.”  While clearly Janelle values a well written and edited story (as most everyone does), and clearly, race and class aren’t always of the utmost importance in relate-ability (Come Back is about a middle class white mother and daughter), there is enough of value in From Crack to College to pick up, read and easily finish the book.

I couldn’t find my one copy of From Crack to College for several weeks—girls were reading it. I tracked down Amanda, a 16-year-old African American girl who isn’t a big reader, and she had the book in her room. She sums it up perfectly—“The way she writes could be better but the overall story is good.”

Indeed, there is enough in From Crack to College that sets it apart from mainstream memoirs, making it a truly worthwhile read for anyone, including a population whose interests aren’t always reflected on our library shelves or served at the checkout desk. These teens need books that are really by, about, and for them.

Bottom line: this book belongs not only on inner city and urban library shelves; it belongs in libraries everywhere.

From Crack to College & Visa Versa is available on Amazon or direct from the author. I gave Jones the information on how to set up her book with Ingram, but she would only receive $1.10 per copy, so decided against it.

*In case anyone comes across the titleBitter Fruit: the Street Ministryand thinks it might have potential due to it’s provocative and street teen-pick-up immediately cover, two words: Nope. None.

Brittenum, DeVan Faye. Bitter Fruit: the Street Ministry. Brittenum. 2013. pap. $7.99. ISBN 9781482047462.

Brown, Cupcake. A Piece of Cake. Broadway Books. pap. $11.49. ISBN 9781400052295.

Fontaine, Claire and Mia. Come Back: A Mother and Daughter’s Journey Through Hell and Back. William Morrow. pap. $15.95. 0060859718

Hunter, Cynthia. Diary of a Crack Addict’s Wife. Kensington. 2005. Tr $15.00. ISBN 0758208340

Jones, Marilyn Denise. From Crack to College & Vice Versa. Marilyn D. Jones. 2013. pap. $14.95.  ISBN 9780989427401.

Paradise Valley, John Mayer (Columbia)

However you feel about John Mayer’s personal life, you’ll find Paradise Valley is a back-to-basics blues sounding album. His gift as a guitarist is clearly demonstrated as he skillfully interprets his music in this peaceful, mood altering collection. Most of the tracks on his sixth studio album convey a laid-back, relaxed stroll through Midwest America. Though not a huge country fan, I think the recent popularity of country with Taylor Swift, Mumford and Sons, and Hunter Hayes is pretty cool. Mayer’s duets with Frank Ocean on “Wildfire” and Katy Perry on “Who You Love” make these tracks extra special. This album is much more accomplished and approachable, and while it gives the listener wonderful ballads, it lacks some of the edginess of past albums. Mayer has definitely chosen to play it safe here, and I guess I can’t blame him. Check out “Wildfire” “Badge and Gun,” “On the Way Home,” and “Who You Love.”—Geena G., grade 11, Floral Park (NY) Memorial High School

Madden 25 (Electronic Arts)

Any true football fan knows, the new season is incomplete without a new release from the gameplay icon, John Madden. That is one of the reasons the Madden football franchise has been a success since its inception. Another is developer Tiburon’s continued tweaking of the game with every new installment. Madden 25 is no exception to this, and offers players several interesting features and improvements. Many of the upgrades benefit the running backs. The new Precision Modifier allows jukes, spins, stiff-arms, and more in order to get around defenders. While executing these moves and manipulating the console, players can combine moves ensuring success on the field. There have been upgrades to the playbook, and use of the Read-option plays. The Infinity Engine has been enhanced for more realistic animations, but still needs work. Owner Mode gives players the opportunity to draft players, sign free agents, restructure contracts, and manage all aspects of the stadium. This part really adds to the experience. A definitely satisfying game that any football fan will dive into. Rated E for Everyone. Platform: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360.—James M.,grade 10, Floral Park (NY) Memorial High School

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows (Activision & Red Fly Studio)

It is hard to believe that the Ninja Turtles have been around for about 30 years, and of course, have amassed a huge following. The popular cartoon series on Nickelodeon has been a big part of their resurgence, so it makes sense to jump on the bandwagon with a videogame.  The game’s premise is that April O’Neil has been kidnapped, and the Turtles must fight to save her and New York City from the evil Shredder and his gang. The game campaign lasts roughly five hours, and is totally combat-based. The four turtles always fight together, and the martial arts-style fighting is action-packed, with a ridiculous amount of combination attacks and button mashing sequences. Difficulty levels continue to increase throughout the campaign, which makes things challenging. Each turtle has his own weapons, fighting style, and personality, and players can switch between each of these at will.  The Turtles’ familiar nuances are numerous, especially with all the references to pizza. There is a classic mode feature that allows you the play the game in vintage black and white. There is also a multiplayer mode for up to four friends, and a local co-op mode for up to two players. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows is very reasonably priced and will provide you with hours of great “cowabunga” fun. Rated E for Everyone. Platform: PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Nick M., grade 10, Floral Park (NY) Memorial High School

RAINFIELD, Cheryl. Stained. Houghton Harcourt. Oct. 2013. Tr $16.99. ISBN  9780547942087.

Gr 9 Up—Sarah is a pretty teenage girl who hides behind her birthmark, which covers half of her face. She tries to stay strong when facing bullies, but sometimes she just feels like curling up into a ball. She thinks that bullies are her worst fear, but she soon learns what true fear is. As she walks home from school one day, she is kidnapped by a deranged killer. Most girls would cry themselves to sleep, but not Sarah. She becomes determined to escape from her prison. However, as minutes blend into days, and days blend into months, she begins to lose hope. Will she ever see her parents, best friend, or school yard sweetheart ever again? And worse, could the killer’s words become reality? Will he kill her or her family if she does anything against his will?

Stained was an exciting, action-packed story that kept my heart racing the entire time. Every chance I had, I was reading this book. I felt drawn into the book, like I was actually in it. I felt like it was me clawing at the boards on the windows until my fingers bled. I became extremely close to all of the characters in this book. I was sad when they failed and happy when they succeeded. The author did an excellent job in creating this closeness. She made me long to know what happened next. This is a wonderful book that all teens will enjoy.—Michaela B., age 14

NESS, Patrick. More Than This. Candlewick. Sept. 2013.Tr $19.99. ISBN  9780763662585.

Gr 9 Up–Seth Wearing has woken up in what he assumes is his own personal hell. After his death, he did not expect to wake up in his childhood home in London—it brings back too many bad memories. This seemingly real world is abandoned and dust-covered. How did he get here? He clearly remembered the waves thrashing him beneath the surface, breaking his bones. So how is it that he is alive? And why does every moment of rest bring back vivid, agonizing memories from the past? Seth doesn’t know what’s going on but he hopes that the rest of his afterlife will be more than just this…

More Than This was a breathtaking read. I enjoyed the unknown setting and all there was for Seth to discover about his life. But behind the mystery, the book has a good moral message. I would recommend this book to any teen but especially a teen that feels like there isn’t anything more to life than what they’re currently experiencing.—Paris E., age 17

POLAK, Monique. So Much It Hurts. Orca. Sept. 2013. pap. $12.95. ISBN 9781459801363.

Gr 9 Up—Iris has caught the eye of acclaimed movie producer, Mick. As an aspiring actress, this is an amazing thing. So what if Mick is fourteen years older than her? He’s sophisticated and she’s happy to call him her boyfriend. Except she can’t quite call him that—Mick wants their relationship to be a secret. After lying about her affiliations with Mick, Iris doesn’t find it hard to keep quiet about Mick’s temper; she even lies about how she got a black eye. Mick loves her, it’s evident—Iris just causes him to get so angry sometimes. Relationships are all about getting used to each other, she just has to get used to Mick’s fits. Right?

So Much It Hurts is a realistic tale about the psyche of teenage girls in abusive relationships. Iris blames herself for Mick’s behavior and only hides the truth, from her best friend, from her mother, and from herself. This short novel can aid in bringing awareness to domestic violence in young adults and just how badly it can end.—Paris E. age 17

PFEFFER, Susan Beth. The Shade of the Moon. Houghton Harcourt. 2013. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9780547813370.

Gr 7 Up—Jon Evans is a slip—simple as that. He can never claim the privileges of the elite enclave dwellers, those that are needed and deserve the best food and the best houses, but he also avoids the dirt-poor life of a grub, outsiders who work as servants or farmers and can be easily replaced. Instead, he can enjoy the benefits of living within the enclave but can never escape the fact that his family are still grubs. And in a postapocalyptic America, being of these two worlds will soon test Jon’s ability to choose between right and wrong.

The fourth in “The Life As We Knew It” series, The Shade of the Moon picks up the story of a family struggling to survive after the moon was knocked out of orbit, causing major changes to the Earth’s environment. Amid the chaos, a new kind of society formed, one where the spoiled kids of doctors and lawyers forget that those with lower paychecks are still human and deserve happiness as much as they do. Susan Beth Pfeffer does an excellent job of showing this moral struggle within Jon, although she falters in writing a more realistic display of Jon’s emotions. Overall, a good read.—Abrania M., age 16

Timeless Thomas: How Thomas Edison Changed Our Lives. DVD. 17:22 min. Spoken Arts. 2013. ISBN 0-8045-8140-1. $50; CD with hardcover book, ISBN 0-8045-4239-2: $29.95.
Gr 2–6–Thomas Alva Edison and his inventive mind had a huge impact on society, perhaps more than most people realize. This is the focus of Gene Barretta’s book (Holt, 2012.) In the DVD, the author provides a live-action introduction, taking viewers toEdison’s workshop and showing many of his inventions. This provides a nice segue into the book itself, which is read by Steve Chiamadia while Barretta’s warm and humorous cartoon illustrations are scanned iconographically. The presentation is fascinating because it focuses less onEdison’s life than on his legacy. AtEdison’s lab, students are introduced to an invention and then shown how it impacts us today. The connections that are made are enlightening as viewers learn how Edison was instrumental in the technology that led to modern-day movies, batteries, tattoos, vending machines, and much more. Barretta also emphasizes the work involved, and howEdisonlearned from his failures as well as his successes. This fascinating presentation provides unique insights and thought-provoking connections.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary,Federal Way, WA

In The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got that Way (S & S, 2013), Ripley reports on her year-long “field trip to the smart-kid countries” to see if she could account for the success of the high achievers. What made these kids smarter than their American peers? To offer an insider’s perspective, she recruited three teenagers participating in student exchange programs: Kim, a sophomore from a low-performing high school in small-town Sallisaw, OK, made her way to Finland after the hard work of raising $10,000; Eric, a recent graduate of a high-achieving, affluent Minnetonka, MN, high school, deferred college for a year to attend high school in Busan, South Korea; and Tom, a western literature enthusiast from Gettysburg, PA, opted to spend his senior year in Wroclaw, Poland.

So, what did Ripley’s investigation reveal? While many of the problems that plague schools, such as principal and teacher complaints, strong unions, political maneuvering, and test anxiety are universal, where children live often determines how seriously they take their role as students. In Finland, Korea, and Poland, the stakes are high; students’ college choices and future careers are determined by how well they do on their exams. Though also true to some extent in the United States, many American students appear fairly blasé about academic success. Interestingly, access to technology wasn’t a deciding factor in motivation or better learning. In fact, the three countries profiled had no digital whiteboards and few computers in the classroom. (They also didn’t have school sponsored sports teams.) What mattered most was rigor and equity, that all students were expected to perform to a certain level and held to the same standards, as were their teachers. In Finland, especially, Ripley describes how improving teacher-training programs by limiting admissions to highly qualified applicants, demanding subject area expertise, and extending the internship period, also improved the level of rigor in the classroom. And they did this while rather than after adopting stringent national standards.

It’s clear that no one country has the answer to America’s public (and sometimes private) school morass. Each has specific issues and problems; consider Korea’s late-night hagwons, private tutoring schools that reduce equity because they charge for access to the best teachers while wearing down students to the point of exhaustion. But what is clear is that in each of the three countries profiled, policy makers and educators and, more importantly, parents and students have decided that a good education matters and excuses for failure are unacceptable. Ripley’s reporting is top-notch, fluidly presented, and well-documented, and her coverage of the teenagers’ personal journeys and experiences, both social and academic, make this a must-read for anyone interested in getting American schools back on track.

Cells (Kids Discover; Free for a limited time, then, $3.99; Gr 5-9) by Sean Price offers students an overview of animal, plant, and human cellular life. On opening the app, viewers can choose from 11 sections or scroll screen by screen through chapters that present both text and colorful illustrations under such headings as “The Stuff of Life,” “DNA Unraveled,” and “What Cells Do.” “Zooming In” offers a cut-away diagram with 10 clearly marked parts and functions of the cell from the nucleus to the role of the mitochondrion. When tapped, the corresponding part or parts of the cell light up (while the rest darkens), allowing students to see exactly what they look like or where they take place. “Incredible Journey” features a short, narrated video clip that takes viewers into the blood stream, zooming past red blood cells, and into the center of a single white blood cell to view chromosomes. “Engineering in a Better World?” mentions gene therapy, stem cells, genetic testing research, and  the “thorny issues” raised by genetic engineering. Music clips, animation, and interactive screens (such as a time line covering the years 1590 to 1997), are some of the additional enhancements found in the app. A maze, a simple jigsaw puzzle, and a five-question quiz are also available, but once they are tried it’s unlikely users will revisit them. There is no glossary or list of key facts. The last section contains short lists of print and web resources with live links (to Amazon, in the case of the books). Two of the four recommended books may be best suited to a slightly younger audience. Cells is also available in a Spanish language edition. —Elizabeth Kahn, Patrick F. Taylor Science & Technology Academy, Avondale, LA

Kids Discover has produced a number of high quality nonfiction offerings for iOS devices and Matter ($3.99; Gr 5-8) is another. The text introduces readers to the following concepts: atoms, elements, states of matter, mixtures, and physical changes versus chemical changes, as well as real-world examples of these states and their properties. The writing is clear and precise and well suited to those new to the subject. Because the app is both comprehensive and illustrative, it could easily serve as an interactive stand-in for texts of a more static nature. The bright, sharp visuals are stunning; each page is pleasingly arranged with an appropriate balance of information and illustration. Animations, sound effects, and short video clips are incorporated throughout demonstrating, for example, how a steam engine works and what happens when a piece of dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) is dropped into a glass of water. Accompanying the text is a vocabulary matching activity and a brief five-question quiz. Interactive activities include a step-by-step experiment guide and practice problems for calculating volume. Between the lucid writing and the beautiful visuals, this app will have many classroom applications. The brief, how-to section that appears when the title is first opened serves as a tutorial on how to use the app. A worthwhile addition to nonfiction collections.— Lindsay Cesari, Baldwinsville School District, NY

Three tabs, “solid,” ‘liguid” and “gas,” lead viewers to paragraph-length definitions and descriptions of each of the States of Matter  (Braahmam Net Solutions Pvt. Ltd.; Gr 5-8) in this free app. In addition, a list of properties is provided for each state, as well as an animated “demonstration” of its particle activity and forces. Finally, a quiz consisting of 10 simple true-and-false and mulitiple-choice questions is provided. The language of the text is awkward at times, suggesting a translation. Viewers can opt to read it or listen to the narration. While neither deep nor particularly exciting in presentation, the app may offer students an opportunity to test or review what they know about the topic.—Daryl Grabarek, School Library Journal

Combining an industry and educational standard in the field of aerospace with a recognized leader in the world of science and arts, the Air & Space and Smithsonian Magazine Archive Database is seamless in action and an excellent source for both papers and projects.

BLACK, Holly. The Coldest Girl in Coldtown. Little, Brown. 2013. ISBN 9780316213103. JLG Level: CTH : Current Trends High (Gr 9 & Up).

Tana’s complex life changes abruptly after a sundown party where a window is opened. Someone should have known better. Coldtown has kept vampires and the infected inside their walls, so attacks occur far less often. This time it is different. Everyone is dead except for Tana, and her escape from the vampires may have infected her. Her ex-boyfriend is seriously infected, but the teen’s past experience drives her to try to save him. A chained vampire comes along for the ride. Can she get to Coldtown before it’s too late? She doesn’t want to be a vampire, but will she have any choice? Black writes with just enough humor to keep a dark and oft-told tale fresh and entertaining.

CRUTCHER, Chris. Period.8. Greenwillow. 2013. ISBN 9780061914812. JLG Level: HI : High-Interest High School (Gr 10 & up).

Lots of kids have study halls―classes where you can do homework, eat lunch, or take a nap. Mr. Logs runs Period 8 like Las Vegas. Kids can talk about whatever they like― what happens there, stays there. When Paulie tells Hannah he had sex with another girl, it becomes class discussion. In her anger, Hannah refuses to listen to his explanation. Then a classmate goes missing. The connection between the two events becomes clearer when Paulie realizes that not everyone in Period 8 is telling the truth. Someone is lying. Kids are in trouble, and they are all in danger. In classic Crutcher-style, realistic teen issues drive a gripping plot with a staggering conclusion.

FARMER, Nancy. The Lord of Opium. S & S/Atheneum. 2013. ISBN 9781442482548. JLG Level: FH : Fantasy/Science Fiction High (Gr 9-12)

Matt never expected to live forever; he was cloned for spare parts for El Patron. With the death of his master, he inherits all possessions and becomes the drug lord of the Land of Opium at age fourteen. With power comes responsibility. Matt sees the opportunity to use his authority to investigate genetic experiments and perhaps end the inhumane treatment of microchipped slaves. His country also has a biosphere with animals long extinct, and scientists who could potentially save the world. However, the Dope Confederacy that surrounds his country is hungry for his resources, while the United Nations has its own agenda. Can he avoid an invasion from enemies outside Opium while struggling with adversaries within?  What must he sacrifice towards the goal of saving them all? Farmer’s sequel to The House of the Scorpion (S & S, 2002) delves further into ethical issues of scientific research and moral treatment of those in servitude.

SHUSTERMAN, Neal. Ship Out of Luck. Dutton. 2013. ISBN 9780525422266. JLG Level: Y : Young Adults (Gr 9 & up).

Antsy is back (Antsy Does Time, 2008) and more entertaining than ever. The Bonano family joins Old Man Crawley for a Caribbean cruise to celebrate his eightieth birthday―”a suitable gift is expected.” Before the ship even leaves the dock, Antsy finds himself in a dilemma―help a cute girl named Tilde who is involved in criminal activities or take a chance that she might blow the whistle on his own less-than-ethical deeds. In his quandary, Antsy leaves the details to Tilde, who takes him into Hello-Hello, which according to his cabbie means “Hell of Hells. It’s the place you drop through de bottom of all de other places.” It is a destination where you pay for both ways before you drive anywhere. Spending time with a stowaway who has a political agenda may not be what Antsy expected for his all-expenses-paid vacation. What transpires will be life-changing, and not just for him. A hilarious romp that will have readers laughing out loud.

For audio/video versions of these booktalks, please visit JLG’s Shelf Life Blog.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

Crash My Party, Luke Bryan (Capital/Nashville)

Crash My Party is the fourth studio album from Bryan, ACM Entertainer of the Year. This album continues Bryan’s easygoing county style with likable, risk-free songs that fans have come to expect from him. His addictive vocals and natural charm mixed with memorable country lyrics are the perfect recipe for success. His sound is effortless, with acoustics and harmonies that tend to stay with you long after the song is over. Some critics feel he needs to branch out of his comfort zone, but when he does on the two tracks “I See You,” and That’s My Kind of Night,” he seems to be missing something. I say stick with what works and continue to do it well. Check out “Crash My Party,” “Roller Coaster,” “Blood Brothers,” and “Out Like That.”—Uma N., grade 11, Floral Park (NY) Memorial High School

The Civil Wars, The Civil Wars (Sensibility Music/Columbia)

When The Civil Wars made their debut in 2011, the alt-country duo of rocker John Paul White and Christian music artist Joy Williams received lots of praise and support.  Their recently released self-titled second album, while consolidating their strengths, comes at a difficult time for the duo. After splitting during their European tour last winter, no one knows if they will work together again. This seems even more of a tragedy as many of the tracks on this album speak of heartache, loss, and the sense for the need to move on. White and Williams pump power into their acoustic base and varied tempos. The album exudes confidence and focus with strong vocals, but is darker and lacks the passion and intimacy we have seen before. Hopefully, The Civil Wars can reunite and overcome their adversity and continue to make great music. Check out “D’Arline,” “Disarm,” “The One That Got Away,” and “Same Old, Same Old.”—Nick M., grade 10, Floral Park (NY) Memorial High School

Nelson Mandela (Weston Woods) ©2012 by Kadir Nelson

Constitution USA with Peter Sagal. 2 DVDs. 4 hrs. Prod. by TPT National Prods. and Insignia Films. Dist. by PBS Dist. 2013. ISBN 978-1-60883-901-8. $29.99.

Gr 9 Up–Sagal, the find-humor-in-our-everyday-lives NPR host, broadly examines our Constitution in both historical and contemporary contexts in a manner that will transfix viewers. Metaphorically traversing the country on a red, white, and blue Harley-Davidson, his goal is to recount the perspective of the document’s development as well as to examine it in terms of today’s critical issues. “A More Perfect Union,” the first segment, describes the intriguing manner in which our federal system of government was determined and issues facing us today as a result of federal, state, and local control questions. “It’s a Free Country” studies the Bill of Rights, and the controversies surrounding those individual freedoms in today’s society are detailed. The Fourteenth Amendment, passed after the Civil War to guarantee equal protection for individuals and groups, and its subsequent landmark impact is the focus of “Created Equal.” Finally, Sagal leads a discussion about the vitality of this remarkable document from the perspective of the 21st-century social and political milieu in “Built to Last.” The nicely paced presentation uses a variety of presentation techniques, such as graphics and humor, to connect with today’s students. There’s also an effective balance of commentary from constitutional scholars as well as ordinary citizens impacted by this document. Several bonus sections add to its usefulness, particularly commentary by former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. Each chapter includes the scene selection option. English language subtitles and a Spanish language audio are optional. Both classroom teachers and media professionals will find this a popular addition to every school’s collection.–Dwain Thomas, formerly Lake Park High School, Roselle, IL

Nelson Mandela. DVD. 10 min. Weston Woods. 2013. ISBN 978-0-545-60947-0. $59.95; CD, ISBN 978-0-545-60948-7: $12.95; CD with hardcover book, ISBN 978-0-545-60949-4: $29.95.

Gr 1–4–Kadir Nelson’s evocative biography (HarperCollins, 2013) of Nelson Mandela receives stellar treatment in this exceptional DVD presentation. The author provides just enough information to introduce apartheid and Mandela’s role in changing the political landscape of South Africa, while involving, but not overwhelming, children. Viewers feel the loss of Mandela’s father and his sorrow as he leaves home to attend school. His rise as a political activist, the 27 years he spent in prison, and his eventual election to the leadership of his nation are all told clearly in crisp and expressive text. Throughout, Mandela is presented as a figure both heroic and human. This, too, is emphasized in Kadir Nelson’s exceptional paintings that glow with an inner warmth. The iconographic presentation allows the audience to truly appreciate both the careful details and the subtle power of the illustrations as actor Forest Whitaker’s rich voice reads the story with background music and crowd sound effects that draw viewers in. The DVD includes an interview with the author in which he talks about his artwork and relates his boyhood experience of attending a speech given by Mandela. This excellent presentation about an extraordinary world leader merits a place in all libraries serving children.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary, Federal Way, WA

Hero on a Bicycle. By Shirley Hughes. 3 CDs. 3:35 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-7493-5. $54.97.

Gr 5–8–The first novel (Candlewick, 2013) by octogenarian Shirley Hughes, the award-winning picture book author and illustrator, is set in Italy in 1944. The story follows 13-year-old Paolo, his 16-year-old sister Costanza, and their mother. The family lives in the outskirts of Nazi-occupied Florence. Their father, an anti-Fascist, fled when the Nazi’s took control, leaving the family in a politically precarious position. Paolo’s nighttime forays into the city on his bicycle have brought his family into contact with the Partisans, the Italian resistance, who ask them “in a convincing manner, made more convincing because of the gun” to help them. Told in third-person narration, the story builds in tension, skillfully shifting between the perspectives of each main character as well as the many well-developed secondary characters who add depth and understanding to an age-old question this story seeks to answer: What motivates people’s actions in times of war? Simon Vance’s incomparable vocal style is a perfect fit for this intense and suspenseful work of historical fiction. With his strong and consistently paced narration, as well as subtle and skillful character voices, Vance’s performance is both nuanced and captivating. A website (www.heroonabicycle.co.uk) offers additional material to supplement lesson plans or deepen book discussions. For those interested in offering students more in-depth information about the time period, other supplemental sources would be required. Highly recommended for students who enjoyed John Boyne’s The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (David Fickling Bks., 2007) and historical or WWII fiction.–Chani Craig. Converse Middle School. Palmer, MA 

Oblivion: The Gatekeepers, Book 5. By Anthony Horowitz. 17 cassettes or 17 CDs. 20:15 hrs. Recorded Books. 2013. cassette: ISBN 978-1-4703-5787-0, CD: ISBN 978-1-4703-5783-2. $108.75.

Gr 9 Up–The final book (2013) in Horowitz’s seriHes finds the fate of the world in the hands of five teenagers: Matt, Pedro, Scott, Jamie, and Scarlet. They are the Gatekeepers. At the end of Necropolis (2009, both Scholastic), after entering a special door, the teens are flung to different parts of the world. They emerge into a dangerous and horrific world 10 years in the future that is beset by evil, torture, murder, death, plagues, famine, and other catastrophes, and on the verge of destruction orchestrated by the evil Old Ones headed by Chaos. To defeat the Old Ones, the five Gatekeepers must be together for the final battle. Much of the story revolves around each Gatekeeper’s struggle to overcome obstacles and challenges to make their way to Oblivion, a frozen, desolate area of Antarctica where Chaos and the Old Ones are waiting. Horowitz’s story is fast-moving, intense, and unflinchingly graphic. Listeners new to the series will be able to follow this volume because past details are included. However, to fully grasp this tale’s scope and complexity, listeners should be familiar with the first four titles. Simon Prebbles’s reading masterfully conveys the terror of this dangerous dystopian world. His consistent portrayal of multiple characters and accents is excellent. This intense, suspense-filled conclusion will keep listeners riveted right up to the end.–Mary Olounye, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH

Out of This Place. By Emma Cameron. 3 CDs. 3:19 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-7497-3. $54.97.

Gr 9 Up–Three friends who want to leave high school and move on describe their anguish in Cameron’s novel written in verse (Candlewick, 2013). Luke, who tries to stay out of trouble at school, spends his time playing cricket, works at the local supermarket, and hangs out at the beach. While trying to figure out where he fits in, he applies for a scholarship and traineeship to get out of school. Bongo spends his time getting wasted to block the memories of his younger brother, Dylan, who was placed in a foster home due to their alcoholic and abusive stepdad and drug addict mother. He’s tired of being around addicts and misses his sibling, so he runs away from home. Casey has a very controlling father, and she’s not allowed to participate in any school activities or have a job. She wants to get away and have some freedom, so she leaves home without saying goodbye. Desperate to leave their lives behind, they all choose to get “out of this place.” They learn lessons along the way and go in directions they never imagined. The story is told from alternating points of view by narrators Candice Moll, Leonardo Nam, and David Atlas. Their expert Australian accents capture the emotions of the three Aussie teens desperately wanting to live life on their own terms.–Janet Weber, Tigard Public Library, OR

Shadow and Bone: Grisha Trilogy, Book 1. By Leigh Bardugo. 8 CDs. 8:55 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4805-2826-0. $49.97.

Gr 7 Up–Orphaned from the Border Wars, Alina was raised by strangers with her only friend, Mal. Drafted into the army of war-torn Rafka, the pair joins their regiment on a dangerous mission into the Fold, a place where darkness reigns and nobody survives the attacks of its native, nightmarish creatures. When the two friends are attacked, Alina inadvertently summons her dormant magical powers to save her regiment. She is ripped from everything she knows and sent to be trained as a Grisha in the court of the Darkling, the most powerful magic wielder. Cut off from contact with Mal, Alina has a hard time learning to use her power. When she discovers the Darkling’s plan to enslave her in order to destroy all who oppose him, she must figure out a way to stop him and find her way back to Mal. Will she learn to wield her power and save Rafka before it’s too late? Narrator Amanda Dolan masterfully brings Alina’s world of magic and monsters to life. Bardugo’s well-developed characters in this debut novel (Holt, 2012) are enhanced by the narrator’s unique voices and intonations. The transitions between action and suspense are incredible, and listeners will be totally engrossed. The twists throughout this unique plot are expertly handled by both author and narrator and keep listeners guessing. For fans of dark fantasy, adventure, suspense, and magic.–Kira Moody, Whitmore Public Library, Salt Lake City, UT

Twelve Kinds of Ice. By Ellen Bryan Obed. cassette or CD. 26 min. Recorded Books. 2013. cassette: ISBN 978-1-4703-6387-1, CD: ISBN 978-1-4703-6386-4. $25.75.

Gr 2-5–How many kinds of ice are there during the winter? It starts with that faint crinkly sheen that breaks at a touch. Gradually, however, ice spreads over fields and ponds. It grows thicker as the cold seeps deep. Finally, it’s time for the family to set the boundaries, stomp the snow, spray the water, and create the ice rink that will be their entertainment center for hockey and skating until the same progression that began the ice reverses, and the world warms again. While the ice goes from a thin sheet to a frozen stream, the house becomes a warming area, a locker room, and a sports center. All activities revolve around the ice. Obed’s book (Houghton Harcourt, 2012) contains 20 very short chapters that skim beautifully over each type of ice and the activities that follow. The author evokes all the senses with carefully chosen spare text. Jessica Almasy reads the story in a youthful voice, drawing listeners in until they, too, are skimming smoothly across this annual magic of the winter season. An evocative, joyful celebration of winter.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary, Federal Way, WA

Recess. Performed by Justin Roberts. CD. 44:25 min. Prod. by Carpet Square Records. Dist. by Justinroberts.org. 2013. ISBN unavail. $15.

PreS–Gr 3–Classic rock, power pop, ska, and country musical styles are evident in these 12 original songs by Roberts. The Not Ready for Naptime Players join him in giving outstanding instrumental performances on guitar, bass, piano, strings, keyboards, trumpet, drums, and percussion. They also weave beautiful and intricate vocal harmonies, with some tracks sounding like the early Beatles or the Beach Boys. Winner of multiple Parents’ Choice Gold and NAPPA Gold awards, Roberts has created wonderful, catchy tunes. The students are anxious for “Recess” time. Listeners get the dog’s point of view in “Every Little Step.” In a faraway kingdom, everyone wears drab beige, sandalwood, and sage colors until “The Princess Wore Pink” and changed everything. One child anticipates with eagerness his weekly visit to “Otis” the elevator. And in “Check Me Out, I’m at the Checkout,” a kid pushes his own cart and makes messes throughout the grocery store. Among the other terrific numbers are “I’ll Be an Alien” (the extra-terrestrial kind), “Hopscotch,” “My Secret Robot,” “Looking for Trains,” “We Got Two” (twins), “School’s Out (Tall Buildings),” and “Red Bird” (a lovely lullaby with beautiful, poetic lyrics). This album stands head and shoulders above other recent pop albums for children.–Beverly Wrigglesworth, San Antonio Public Library, TX

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The following titles are reviewed in the September 2013 print issue. Visit Book Verdict for the full reviews.

DVD

Art Instruction

Learn and Draw with Mike Artell: Outer Space. DVD. 1:12 hrs. Video Specialties. 2013. ISBN unavail. $24.95.

Dance

Ally Cat the Ballet Cat. DVD. 60 min. Prod. by Arzura/Ytinifni Pictures. Dist. by Arzura. 2013. ISBN unavail. $16.75.

Early Childhood

Barney: Imagine with Barney. DVD. 76 min. Prod. by HIT Entertainment. Dist. by Lionsgate. 2013. ISBN unavail. $14.98.

David, the Gnome Collection. 4 DVDs. approx. 10:25 hrs. Prod. by BRB Internacional. Dist. by Oasis DVDs. 2013. ISBN unavail. $19.99.

Dogtanian and the Three Muskethounds. 4 DVDs. approx.. 10:25 hrs. Prod. by BRB Internacional. Dist. by Oasis DVDs. 2013. ISBN unavail. $19.99.

Sukey’s Circle! Vol. 3: Mini Shows. DVD. 33 min. Sukeymolloy.com. 2013. ISBN unavail. $15.99.

In-Service

Book SmARTS & Crafts: Crafts & Activities for Kids. DVD. approx. 3 hrs. Page Turner Adventures. 2013. ISBN unavail. $175.

Science

Meteor Strike (NOVA Series). DVD. 60 min. Prod. by Pioneer Films & TV Prods. and WGBH Educational Foundation. Dist. by PBS Dist. 2013. ISBN 978-1-60883-904-9. $24.99.

Timeless Thomas: How Thomas Edison Changed Our Lives. DVD. 17:22 min. Spoken Arts. 2013. ISBN 0-8045-8140-1. $50; CD with hardcover book, ISBN 0-8045-4239-2: $29.95.

Social Studies

Brooklyn Castle. DVD. 1:42 hrs. with curriculum and resource guides. Prod. by Rescued Media. Dist. by First Run Features. 2012, 2013 release. ISBN unavail. $60.

Secrets of the Dead: Death on the Railroad. DVD. 60 min. Prod. by Tile Films Ltd. Dist. by PBS Dist. 2013. ISBN 978-1-60883-910-0. $24.99.

 Audio

Many of these titles are available for download and/or in Playaway format. Check distributors’ websites, playaway.com, and audio download retailers for availability and price.

Language Arts

Aces Wild. By Erica S. Perl. 5 CDs. 5:21 hrs. Prod. by Listening Library. Dist. by Listening Library/Books on Tape. 2013. ISBN 978-0-384-39330-0. $30.

Accidental Love. By Gary Soto. 3 CDs. 3:30 hrs. AudioGO. 2013. ISBN 978-1-62450-506-0. $49.95.

Aliens in Disguise: The Intergalactic Bed & Breakfast. By Clete Barrett Smith. 5 CDs. 3:58 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-1915-8. $54.97.

The Beautiful and the Cursed: The Dispossessed, Book 1. By Page Morgan. 10 CDs. 12:33 hrs. Prod. by Listening Library. Dist. by Listening Library/Books on Tape. 2013. ISBN 978-0-385-36392-1. $55.

Below. By Meg McKinlay. 4 CDs. 4:10 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-7487-4. $54.97.

Black Helicopters. By Blythe Woolston. 3 CDs. 3:25 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-7488-1. $54.97.

Born to Fly. By Michael Ferrari. 4 CDs. 5 hrs. AudioGO. 2013. ISBN 978-1-62460-220-7. $49.95.

A Break with Charity: A Story about the Salem Witch Trials. By Ann Rinaldi. 6 CDs. 7:06 hrs. AudioGO. 2013. ISBN 978-1-62460-153-8. $69.95.

Charlie Joe Jackson’s Guide to Summer Vacation. By Tommy Greenwald. 4 CDs. 3:56 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4805-0492-9. $54.97.

Crescent: A Helium-3 Novel, Book 2. By Homer Hickam. 7 CDs.  8:41 hrs. Oasis Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-61375534-1.  $27.99.

The Cydonian Pyramid: The Klaatu Diskos, Book 2. By Pete Hautman. 8 CDs. 8:50 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-7489-8. $49.97.

The Darkest Minds. By Alexandra Bracken. 12 CDs. 14:06 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-9156-7. $59.97.

Deep and Dark and Dangerous. By Mary Downing Hahn. 5 CDs. 6 hrs. AudioGO. 2013. ISBN 978-1-62460-218-4. $49.95.

Discovering Wes Moore. By Wes Moore. 4 CDs. 4:01 hrs. Prod. by Listening Library. Dist. by Listening Library/Books on Tape. 2013. ISBN 978-0-8041-2193-4. $30.

The Edge of Nowhere. By Elizabeth George. 10 CDs. 11:36 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4805-0530-8. $59.97.

Fairy Tales: Poems and Music for Children. Performed by Clive Owen, Kenneth Branagh, and others. CD. 50:27 min. Prod. by Orchid Classics. Dist. by Naxos. 2013. ISBN unavail. $17.99.

Far Far Away. By Tom McNeal. 9 CDs. 10:55 hrs. Prod. by Listening Library. Dist. by Listening Library/Books on Tape. 2012. ISBN 978-0-8041-8041-2154-5. $65.

Garden Princess. By Kristin Kladstrup. 5 CDs. 5:04 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-7492-8. $54.97.

Ghost Time. By Courtney Eldridge. 11 CDs. 13:24 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-8300-5. $49.97.

Girl, Stolen. By April Henry. 5 CDs. 5:08 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-7837-7. $69.97

The Girl Who Was Supposed to Die. By April Henry. 5 CDs. 5:28 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-7784-4. $59.97.

The Glass Cafe: Or the Stripper and the State, How My Mother Started a War with the System that Made us Kind of Rich and a Little Bit Famous. By Gary Paulsen.CD. 1:02 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4588-1082-6. $39.97.

Imposter: A Variants Novel. By Susanne Winnacker. 7 CDs. 8:04 hrs. Prod. by Listening Library. Dist. by Listening Library/Books on Tape. 2013. ISBN 978-0-8041-2384-6. $50.

The Lives We Lost: Fallen World, Book 2. By Megan Crewe. 7 cassettes or 7 CDs. 7:45 hrs. Recorded Books. 2013. cassette: ISBN 978-1-4498-5385-3, CD: ISBN 978-1-4498-5386-0. $51.75.

Loki’s Wolves: The Blackwell Pages, Book 1. By K.L. Armstrong and M. A. Marr. 7 CDs. 7:30 hrs. Hachette Audio for AudioGO. 213. ISBN 978-1-4789-2585-X. $64.99.

A Matter of Days. By Amber Kizer. 7 CDs. 8:14 hrs. Prod. by Listening Library. Dist. by Listening Library/Books on Tape. 2013. ISBN 978-0-385-36820-9. $50.

Monument 14: Sky on Fire. By Emmy Laybourne. 5 CDs. 5:26 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-5562-0. $54.97.

Paper Valentine. By Brenda Yovanoff. 7 CDs. 9 hrs. Prod. by Listening Library. Dist. by Listening Library/Books on Tape. 2013. ISBN 978-0-8041-2197-2. $60.

Sentries. By Gary Paulsen. 3 CDs. 3:17 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4692-4125-8. $39.97.

Shadow Chaser: Son of Angels, Book 3. By Jerel Law. 5 CDs. 5:47 hrs. Oasis Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-61375-531-0. $22.99.

Silent Harmony: Fairmont Riding Academy—A Vivienne Taylor Horse Lover’s Mystery, Book 1. By Michele Scott. 5 CDs. 6:10 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4805-1977-0. $49.97.

Storm: Swipe, Book 3. By Evan Angler. 7 CDs. 8:35 hrs. hrs. Oasis Audio. 2013. ISBN: 978-1-61375-630-3. $27.99.

Theodore Boone: The Activist. By John Grisham. 5 CDs. 5:56 hrs. Penguin Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-61176-158-0. $19.95.

The Time Hackers. By Gary Paulsen. 2 CDs. 2:08 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4558-1072-7. $39.97.

Toys Come Home: Being the Early Experiences of an Intelligent Stingray, Brave Buffalo, and a Brand-New Someone Called Plastic. By Emily Jenkins.2 cassettes or 2 CDs. 2:15 hrs. Recorded Books. 2013. cassette, ISBN 978-1-4640-2134-3, CD: ISBN 978-1-4640-2133-6. $25.75.

Unicorn Thinks He’s Pretty Great. By Bob Shea. cassette or CD. 15 min. Recorded Books. 2013. cassette: ISBN 978-1-4703-7193-7. CD: ISBN 978-1-4703-7192-0. $15.75; hardcover book: ISBN 978-1-4231-5952-9: $15.99.

Vote. By Gary Paulsen. 3 CDs. 2:42 hrs. Brilliance Audio. ISBN 978-1-4692-7842-1. $39.97.

Wreck-It Ralph Read-Along Storybook and CD. By Disney Book Group. CD. 10:21 min. with paperback book. Disney. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4231-6061-8. $6.99.

You Know What You Have to Do. By Bonnie Shimko. 5CDs. 5:12 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4805-1978-7. $49.97.

Music

American Playground. CD. 25:28 min. Putumayo Kids. 2013. ISBN unavail. $14.98.

Braver to Be Kind. Performed by Terry A La Berry. CD. 30:06 min. CDBaby.com. 2013. ISBN unavail. $11.98.

A Creepy Crawly Song Book. By Ny Hiawyn Oram. CD. 60 min. with hardcover book. Prod. by Threefold Records. Dist. by AV Café. 2012, 2013 release. ISBN 978-0-95715-970-9. $12.97.

Love, Cake & Monsters. Performed by Princess Katie & Racer Steve. CD. 42:45 min. CDBaby.com. 2013. ISBN unavail. $15.

Once Upon a Tune. Performed by Liz Buchanan. CD. 45 min. Prod. by Antelope Dance. Dist. by CDBaby.com. 2013. ISBN unavail. $15.99.

Roller Coaster Ride with Miss Dylan. Performed by Dylan Glanzer. CD. 28 min. CDBaby.com. ISBN unavail. $15.

Social Studies

Kennedy’s Last Days. By Bill O’Reilly. 4 CDs: 4:30 hrs. Macmillan Audio. 2013. ISBN 978-1-4272-3516-9. $19.99.

Mr. Lincoln’s High-Tech War. By Thomas B. Allen and Roger MacBride Allen. 4 CDs. 4 hrs. AudioGO. 2013. ISBN 978-1-62460-216-0. $29.95.

Wild Boy: The Real Life of the Savage of Aveyron. By Mary Losure. 2 CDs. 2:05 hrs. Brilliance Audio. ISBN 978-1-4692-7501-7. $59.97.