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July 1, 2010

Fiction

ADAMSON, Gil. Help Me, Jacques Cousteau. 200p. CIP. Groundwood. 2010. pap. $15.95. ISBN 978-0-8878-4799-8. LC C2009-903513-8.
Gr 9 Up-Hazel and her brother, Andrew, belong to a family of eccentrics. Their dad, North, is constantly rewiring the house and studying the weather. Their mother just up and leaves them one day. One uncle collects only white animals, while another is constantly changing girlfriends. The rest of the family shows up on a whim from time to time, and even the neighbors, whom Hazel enjoys spying on, are a little odd. As Hazel narrates her life beginning from a young age, following the birth of her brother, her adolescence, and her young adulthood, readers get to know the quirky characters who make up her world. With subtle humor and lyrical, at times almost poetic, writing ('We hurry along the road in the snow, looking like an assortment of bonbons in frilly wrappings'), Adamson weaves a story that will give readers comfort in knowing their families aren't the only ones with their fair share of kookiness.'Gina Bowling, South Gibson County High School, Medina, TN

ADLER, Emily & Alex Echevarria. Sweet 15. 240p. CIP. Marshall Cavendish. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-7614-5584-4. LC 2008021391.
Gr 6-9-This little bit of light reading tells the story of Destiny Lozada and her quincea'ra. Her loving Puerto Rican-American family, made up of a hardworking father, a slightly pushy mother, and a rather overbearing sister, helps keep the plot moving as the teen decides how she feels about a traditional party and whether she even wants one. Her friends Stephanie and Erin remain largely on the fringes but help her get out of a couple of tight situations, such as a babysitting episode that goes awry. Mrs. Lozada is swept up in planning the perfect quincea'ra, while America, Destiny's sister, fights tooth and nail against traditional female stereotypes and cultural expectations. Destiny is caught in the middle, with the added pressure of the ever-mounting expense and a crush on Nicolas, who may turn out to be more of a cad than a prince. In the end, Destiny calls a halt to the expensive party and plans an alternative that suits her unique style and her family's budget. Entertaining and chatty, and with an assortment of lively characters, this novel will appeal mostly to girls who are making their own way through the labyrinth of friendship, first boyfriends, and parental expectations.'Robin Henry, Wakeland High School, Frisco, TX

ANDERSON, M. T. The Suburb Beyond the Stars. 223p. Scholastic. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-545-13882-6. LC number unavailable.
Gr 6-9-This sequel to The Game of Sunken Places (Scholastic, 2004) rejoins best friends Brian and Gregory after the supernatural Game has concluded. As winner, Brian is in charge of planning the next one, where two humans will compete to resolve the next round in the conflict between the elflike Thusser and Norumbregans. However, when monsters begin to stalk Brian and the friends learn that Gregory's cousin Prudence has disappeared, they realize that the Thusser are trying to change the rules and challenge the Norumbregans directly. The boys travel to Prudence's home and discover a supernatural neighborhood that is being invaded by monsters, and it's up to them to save the day. The conclusion sets the stage for another installment. Anderson's fans will know to expect plenty of action, loads of story twists, and a touch of humor, and new readers will be able to follow and enjoy the story. Brian's relationship with Gregory is a realistic friendship in transition, showing how the boys continue to grow and mature. This is a fun and gripping read, with action, suspense, and creepy monsters that will keep readers up late'and make them want to keep the lights on.'Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

APPELT, Kathi. Keeper. illus. by August Hall. 416p. S & S/Atheneum. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-5060-8. LC number unavailable.
Gr 4-7-Ten-year-old Keeper believes in wishes and magic, and why shouldn't she' Her mother, gone for the last seven years, is a mermaid, after all! So on the day of the Blue Moon, when everything she does has a disastrous result, Keeper knows her only option is to row out past the sandbar to the treacherous open water of the Gulf of Mexico, accompanied by BD (Best Dog) and Captain the seagull, and hope her mermaid mama can tell her how to fix things. Keeper is funny, feisty, at times older than her years, and often so stubborn that readers will have to shake their heads. In other words, quite realistic. The adults in the story are beautifully drawn, and absolutely believable, and the Gulf Coast setting is practically a character itself. The tender romance between two teenaged boys years earlier is hinted at, and it is sensitively portrayed, as is the romance between Keeper's guardian, Signe, and the damaged former soldier, Dogie. Filled with love, wild adventure, family drama, and even a touch of true fantasy, this is a deeply satisfying tale.'Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

ARATO, Rona. Mrs. Kaputnik's Pool Hall and Matzo Ball Emporium. 188p. CIP. Tundra. 2010. pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-0-88776-967-2. LC C2009-902986-3.
Gr 4-6'Emigrating from Russia in hopes of reuniting with their father in America, Shoshi and Moshe Kapustin and their mother get renamed Kaputnik on Ellis Island. Their story would be placed squarely in the historical fiction genre if not for their pet dragon. Hatched from an egg acquired from a mysterious peddler, Snigger saves the family from a Cossack raid, but his presence raises fear in the superstitious villagers, and the Kapustins are forced to leave. This give-and-take of owning a dragon continues throughout the journey and in New York, where Snigger raises as much delight as trouble. Heavy on plot elements (the trials and tribulations of immigration, a gangster trying to shake down the neighborhood, a baseball rivalry between the oddly named Yoinkles and Slobbers), red herrings (is the man who helped get Snigger through customs in cahoots with the gangster'), and reappearing characters, there is never a proper balance struck between the whimsical and realistic moments. Even dragon lovers may find the humor falling flat.'Joanna K. Fabicon, Los Angeles Public Library

ARBUTHNOTT, Gill. The Keepers' Tattoo. 432p. CIP. Scholastic/Chicken House. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-545-17166-3. LC 2009026327.
Gr 6 Up-Nyssa is a cheerful young cook and tavern maid in a medieval-like world. But, as with many lowly orphans in fantasy novels, she has a secret identity. She has a mysterious tattoo on the back of her head, one half of an inscription in a language long forgotten, that of the Keepers, a civilization based on science and reason. Nyssa also has nightmares so concrete that she wonders if she is living inside another person's mind. When the terrifying Shadowmen arrive and seem to be pursuing her, she is aided in her escape by her uncle Marius and a dance hall girl named Aria. Central to the plot is Nyssa's discovery of her twin brother, who has been badly abused by Alaric the White Wolf, a cruel dictator bent on empire building. Once Nyssa and her friends rescue Kit, they are on the run again. Can they translate the tattoos that mark the siblings before the White Wolf's Shadowmen catch them' Will the secrets of the past give them power to save the world' Coincidence plays a big part throughout, including the climax, but the story has interior charms. Nyssa is an earnest and fiercely independent girl, her friendship with Aria is lively and nonjudgmental, and both girls grow into lives that satisfy their true natures. When readers meet Kit, he is a starved, battered, and speechless slave boy, the alter ego of Nyssa's nightmares. Slowly, in the company of his loving sister, he develops into a thoughtful and expressive young man. A pleasing adventure for fantasy fans.'Carolyn Lehman, Humboldt State University, Arcata, CA

ARMSTRONG, Kelley. The Reckoning. Bk. 3. 391p. (Darkest Powers Series). CIP. HarperCollins. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-06-166283-6. LC 2009044008.
Gr 8 Up-Fifteen-year-old Chloe Saunders and her friends Tori, Simon, and Derek are genetically altered supernaturals on the run from the evil corporation that created them. Hiding out with a family friend, they are trying to make sense of their predicament and discover what sinister plans the Edison Group has in store for them. As a powerful necromancer who can raise the dead in her sleep, Chloe struggles to control her abilities and figure out how to best use them to keep everyone safe. To further complicate matters (as if running for your life were not enough), Chloe wrestles with her feelings for Simon, a good-natured sorcerer, and Derek, a misunderstood werewolf. This nail-biting climax to the series continues to captivate readers with its edge-of-one's-seat pacing. Armstrong's story is full of action, romance, deception, and intrigue as well as complex characters and serious teenage issues. A satisfying addition for fans of the supernatural.'Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

AYARBE, Heidi. Compromised. 452p. CIP. HarperTeen. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-172849-5. LC 2009023545.
Gr 9 Up-The daughter of a con man, Maya's been on the a run all her life, but when her dad's bad deals finally catch up to them, she loses the only family she's ever had and ends up in the Nevada foster-care system. Passionate about science, the 15-year-old seeks to develop a hypothesis and follow the scientific method to get her father out of prison. Realizing this plan's futility, she goes back to the only other thing she really knows how to do: run. Maya formulates a new hypothesis that will hopefully lead her to an aunt in Idaho whom she's never met and some type of normalcy. One variable that she doesn't anticipate, however, is the addition of two other runaways who are also looking for something more. Gritty and realistic in action and language, this novel brings to light the plight of displaced teens. Maya is a strong character who tries to be true to herself while playing the caregiver role she always seems to fall into'first to her dad and now to her fellow runaways. The three form a strong bond that rings true even though the setting will likely be unfamiliar to many readers. While sympathy is evoked for the characters, emotions are not overplayed. The quick pace and flesh-and-blood main characters will appeal to avid and reluctant readers alike.'Gina Bowling, South Gibson County High School, Medina, TN

BARRETT, Tracy. The Case That Time Forgot. Bk. 3. 160p. (The Sherlock Files Series). CIP. Holt. 2010. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-8046-9. LC 2009024148.
Gr 4-6'Xena and Xander are crunched for time with only one week to solve their next case. After sending the duo a cryptic note to test their detective skills, Xander's friend Karim tells the siblings about an Egyptian water clock stolen years ago that contained a hidden amulet. Now missing, it may have the power to invoke the god Thoth, and possibly, to stop time. Sherlock Holmes's famous cold-case book goes missing and his youthful ancestors receive a threatening note warning them off the case. Meanwhile they follow enigmatic, century-old clues leading to the talisman. Red herrings abound, mixed with the real clues. The siblings use rock-climbing skills, a photographic memory, cell-phone cameras, and computers to solve the mystery. The action progresses pleasingly and the characters are a good mix of caution and risk. Even better, the story features some London locales and references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's original stories.'Terry Ann Lawler, Phoenix Public Library, AZ

BERTRAND, Diane Gonzales. The F Factor. 256p. CIP. Pi '/span> ata. 2010. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-1-55885-598-4. LC number unavailable.
Gr 7-10-Javier 'ila starts his sophomore year at St. Peter's High School with the unwelcome addition of the school's new Media Broadcasting elective to his course schedule, added, he later learns, by a career counselor who wants him to be more well rounded. An honors student, Javier has worked hard to be recognized as smart and dependable. When he is paired with misfit Patricio Berlanga to coanchor the televised morning announcements, Javier is convinced that he will be embarrassed in front of the whole school. However, Pat turns out to be a surprisingly competent partner and a good friend. As the boys navigate their way through the course, they deal with the scorn of upperclassmen, the complications of a romance between Javier and Pat's sister, and a house fire that almost kills both boys. The story is set in Texas and is filled with Hispanic characters and cultural references. In a sometimes heavy-handed way, the author deals with the true nature of friendship and family as Javier works through his evolving expectations of himself. The plot meanders to the climactic house fire only to close with an ambitious and almost fairy-talelike resolution. The course serves as the primary focus of the story, with characters almost secondary, which will limit the title's audience. However, Javier's fears about success and failure (the 'F' of the title) ring true. Readers looking for a realistically positive portrayal of a Hispanic community will be rewarded as well.'Lynn Rashid, Marriotts Ridge High School, Marriottsville, MD

BOGGESS, Eileen. Mia the Magnificent. 161p. Bancroft. 2010. Tr $19.95. ISBN 978-1-890862-67-1. LC 2009934868.
Gr 5-9-Mia is starting her sophomore year free and clear. She is newly confident from working at a summer camp for actors and is rid of her cheating ex-boyfriend, Tim. Ready to stand on her own and take chances, she's taking drivers ed and lets her friend talk her into auditioning for the school play. Things seem to be going well, until Tim, who is dating two girls at school, tries to get her back; her drivers ed instructor quits, to be replaced by the crazy school janitor; and the lead in the play gets mono and a reluctant Mia has to perform in her place. Adding to the teen's misery, her mom finishes the book she's been working on, a fictional tale that's based on Mia's life. While Boggess's book features teenage characters, the characters act like children in elementary school, and clich', silly euphemisms, and bad puns abound. While the book can stand on its own, it should only be purchased where there are fans of the series.'Melyssa Malinowski, Parkville High School, Baltimore, MD

BRADFORD, Chris. The Way of the Sword. Bk. 2. 422p. (Young Samurai Series). Hyperion/Disney. 2010. RTE $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4231-2025-4. LC number unavailable.
Gr 6-9-Bradford raises the stakes for his blond samurai student in this second installment in the series. Previously shipwrecked after his father was murdered by the ninja leader Dragon Eye, Jack is continuing his training as a samurai at his foster father's school for young warriors. Dedicated to keeping his father's navigational log from Dragon Eye, who has tried to steal it before, Jack hides the book at the castle of the daimyo, where he feels it will be safer. In the meantime, he must train to participate in the Circle of Three, a trial that would allow him to learn a double-sword-fighting technique, one he feels he needs to defend himself against the ninja's treachery. To add to his worries, his friend Akiko is acting strangely, disappearing in the night, and Jack suspects she may be training as a ninja. Bradford combines the structure of a British school story with the flavor of 17th-century Japan, and his descriptions of both swordplay and hand-to-hand martial arts reveal his extensive knowledge of the subject. Young martial artists will be eager to try out sticky-hands drills in their own dojos. Though the secondary cast is often too large to keep track of and only a few of the characters are fully developed, the ongoing struggle between honorable samurai and dastardly ninja will draw both reluctant readers and enthusiasts of Japanese history. 'Alana Joli Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT

BRICELAND, V. The Buccaneer's Apprentice. Bk. 2. 360p. (The Cassaforte Chronicles). CIP. Flux. 2010. pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-0-7387-1895-8. LC 2009030497.
Gr 8 Up-Nic Dattore, 17, is the hero of this second book in the series. In the magical world of Cassaforte, his dreary life of indentured servitude seems cursed by misfortune. Traveling with a Dickensian theater troupe by sea, he ends up fending off pirates, losing his fellow thespians, and ending up on a deserted island. There he meets a charming Gurgi-like reformed pirate named Maxl; a girl named Darcy; and an old man, Jacopo. This motley band takes over the pirate ship, determined to sail it to Cassaforte so Jacopo can warn the city of an impending attack. In the process, Nic pieces together clues regarding his identity and the curse attached to him. Even if teens haven't read The Glass Maker's Daughter (Flux, 2009), they can immerse themselves in this title as it is more of a companion novel than a strict sequel. The setting suggests a pseudo-European world similar to those found in Kai Meyer's The Water Mirror (S & S, 2005) or Cornelia Funke's The Thief Lord (Scholastic, 2002) complete with fake French, Italian, and Dutch language constructs. Some may enjoy the oddly familiar settings while other fantasy readers might wish for something more unique. Teens who read pirate novels or adventure-driven fantasy will identify with Nic's courageous attempts to help his friends and turn his misfortunes around. The dialogue can be disconnected, but the humor, friendship, and sword fighting make this title worth recommending.'Caitlin Augusta, Stratford Library Association, CT

BRONTE Charlotte. Jane Eyre. ISBN 978-1-60754-667-2.
BRONTE Emily. Wuthering Heights. ISBN 978-1-60754-670-2.
ea vol: retold by Gill Tavner. illus. by Vanessa Lubach. 64p. (Real Reads Series). further reading. Web sites. CIP. Windmill. 2010. PLB $29.95. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-7-The opening spreads in these retellings introduce main characters through short descriptions accompanied by small portraits. Colored-pencil illustrations scattered throughout the narratives take the place of lengthy descriptions in the original works. Tavner carefully re-creates the original plots and characters as well as the authors' styles. Editor's notes provide background information on the stories and explain the process of retelling a classic, which includes omitting some subplots and details, combining some events, and changing dialogue to allow ease in reading. Short lists of related movies and discussions of themes and style will spark interest in the originals. Clarifying the plot and character interactions, these retellings are good introductions to the novels.'Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD

CAMPBELL, Chelsea M. The Rise of Renegade X. 352p. Egmont USA. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-60684-060-3; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-1-60684-063-4. LC number unavailable.
Gr 9 Up-Damien Locke lives in an alternate universe inhabited by superheroes, supervillains, and regular people. If you are a hero, a letter H appears on your thumb when you turn 16. If you are a villain, you get a V. On his 16th birthday, Damien gets an X. He is half hero, half villain, the product of a one-night stand between his mad-scientist supervillain mother and superhero father Crimson Flash, otherwise known as Gordon Tines. Gordon is certain that his son will become a full-fledged hero, but the teen is equally certain that he is going to end up a villain, and is counting on admission to Vilmore, the villain academy. While he tries to make life for his father and stepfamily unbearable, Damien's mom is hooking up with the head of Vilmore romantically as well as using her hypno-device to take over the city, and Damien is forced to choose sides. This scenario certainly works as a metaphor for the shades of gray teens have to deal with as they struggle to find their identity. The book is definitely for older teens, as there is a significant semi-explicit focus on Damien's messed-up love life as he tries to reconcile with his villain ex-girlfriend, Kat, while stringing along his new hero love interest, Sarah. This is the YA equivalent of a B movie.'Tim Wadham, St. Louis County Library, MO

CARMAN, Patrick. Trackers. Bk. 1. 224p. Scholastic. 2010. Tr $14.99. ISBN 978-0-545-16500-6. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-9-Fifteen-year-old wunderkind Adam Henderson grew up tinkering with the discarded components at his father's computer-repair shop and was soon given his own little annex called 'The Vault,' a place where he could hang out and work on his gadgets. By sixth grade'right around the time he met Finn, Emily, and Lewis'Adam was making enough money selling virtual stuff to hard-core gamers to allow him to begin developing an impressive portfolio of wireless surveillance gear. The kids discovered that they had complementary skill sets perfect for cyber-sleuthing, and the Trackers were born. In this first book of what will likely be a popular series, Adam and the Trackers have been drawn into a cryptic cat-and-mouse game by a brilliant and beautiful young woman named Zara who turns out to be working with an older accomplice named Lasko. He has managed to hack into The Vault and steal Adam's portfolio of inventions and threatens to release his designs to the public unless Adam can quickly crack a code that'll provide Lasko with backdoor access to all of the world's banks. This is an ingenious and entertaining mystery on several levels, and readers are given successive passwords to a Trackers website as the story unfolds. The site contains short videos (transcripts of which are also provided in an appendix) that help readers visualize story elements and solve the mystery, making this an excellent choice for reluctant readers.'Jeffrey Hastings, Highlander Way Middle School, Howell, MI

CARROLL, Michael. Super Human. 325p. CIP. Philomel. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-399-25297-6. LC 2009029965.
Gr 6-9-Nearly 4500 years ago, the Fifth King'a godlike, violent man who brought the entire known world under his rule'vanished from his palace balcony in full view of hundreds of his subjects. Now, in the present-day United States, a group calling themselves the Helotry is determined to bring him back. These fanatics create a plague that affects adults all over the world, including the contemporary superheroes who had the best chance of stopping them. But the Helotry has not counted on opposition from a newly formed group of teen superheroes (and one 'normal' but extremely clever and resourceful 14-year-old) unaffected by the plague and determined to use their powers to save the day. The characters are introduced at a rapid-fire pace that may be difficult for less advanced readers to follow, and the book's ending is somewhat abrupt. However, the continuous action and entertaining interactions among the teen protagonists will likely win over some fans of superhero comics and adventure novels.'Hayden Bass, Seattle Public Library, WA

CASTLE, Lila. The Star Shack. 224p. Sourcebooks/Fire. 2010. pap. $9.99. ISBN 978-1-4022-4110-9. LC number unavailable.
Gr 7-10-Annabelle and Pete share a passion for baseball, but when she develops an obsession with astrology, it derails their deepening relationship. Incessant references to the hobby aggravate Pete, while his increasingly uncommunicative behavior troubles Annabelle. When the stars say she should move ahead with a business venture, she dares Pete to join her in establishing a romantic-advice astrology booth on Gingerbread Beach's boardwalk, even though he is being pursued by, and starts dating, Sarah, an older and more sophisticated teen whose passive-aggressive remarks and condescending behavior unsettle Annabelle. If the booth's a bust, Annabelle promises never to talk about astrology with Pete again. Never one to decline a dare, Pete accepts, and quickly wins over customers with his charisma and his wide knowledge of astrology, attained during cram sessions and aided by his photographic memory. The narration switches between the two protagonists effectively. Characterizations are realistic and natural, including Annabelle's post-breakup emotions and Sarah's aggressively flirtatious and catty attitude. Pete's excitement over being noticed by an older girl is authentic, while his conflicting feelings regarding his relationship with Annabelle are plausible. The ending is predictable yet not overly cheesy, and the love stories set in motion by the duo's advice are sweet. Not an essential purchase, but an enjoyable summer read.'Jennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, Warrenton, VA

CATANESE, P. W. Dragon Games. Bk. 2. 373p. (The Books of Umber Series). CIP. S & S/Aladdin. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-7521-2. LC 2009018743.
Gr 5-8-This is a true roller coaster of a book, starting with sea-giants and ending with soul crabs (surely one of the creepier inventions in recent literary history), with plenty of loops and drops and zero-g moments in between. The mostly ebullient Lord Umber and his unusual ward, Happenstance, experience one adventure after another'some simply to feed Umber's insatiable need to learn about his world, others with more complicated purposes. At home, the future of the crown is in some doubt. Umber is concerned, but the opportunity to study dragons is irresistible, so he and Hap, along with the incurably honest Oates and some new and/or unusual friends, travel to Sarnica, a kingdom ruled by a corrupt king and his worse son. They soon find themselves caught up in a civil war. Catanese has imagination to spare, with new wonders around every corner. A few scenes of war, slavery, and animal abuse may disturb some readers, though more is implied than actually described. Youngsters learn something of Happenstance's background and get a taste of Umber's early days, but only enough of both to whet appetites for the next book. Familiarity with the first book isn't necessary, but readers will want to get their hands on it after reading this one.'Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

CHAMBERS, Veronica. Fifteen Candles. Bk. 1. 176p. (Amigas Series). Hyperion/Disney. 2010. pap. $8.99. ISBN 978-1-4231-2362-0. LC number unavailable.
Gr 7-10-Alicia Cruz has big dreams. She's working as a summer intern at City Hall in order to polish up her college r'um'when she has a chance to help a friend plan her quincea'ra. The teen has four close friends, each with a distinct style and strength, which makes the group work well together. As Alicia begins her research on quinces, she decides that the friends have what it takes to start a business. She proposes the plan to them, and they immediately begin to launch their Amigas enterprise. However, as the time for the party draws near, the partners experience some issues. Chambers does a good job of developing five characters who are working through some growing pains but come out of the situation triumphantly. The narrative is a little heavy on food descriptions and designer-label name-dropping, but it shows practical elements of learning to mature. The author gives a nod to the cultural implications of quinces, as well as to the fact that not everyone can afford a big party. Instead, many people have to plan and budget, something the Amigas run into during their preparations. A light read that will be of most interest to Hispanic populations.'Emily Garrett Cassady, North Garland High School, Garland, TX

CHESHIRE, Simon. Treasure of Dead Man's Lane and Other Case Files. Bk. 2. illus. by R. W. Alley. 208p. (Saxby Smart, Private Detective Series). Roaring Brook. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-59643-475-2. LC number unavailable.
Gr 4-6-With three new cases, Saxby proves to be the go-to kid for solving mysteries. The boy relies heavily on the power of observation and drawing logical conclusions to find a missing comic worth $100,000 and a treasure in an old house that's about to be demolished and discover who has broken into six children's houses, all in the same teacher's classroom. His faithful friends Izzy and Muddy are wonderful sidekicks who go beyond Saxby's observations with outside investigation and research. The cases can be solved by readers, and the questions posed throughout the text make sure that they are following the clues. Expressive black-and-white cartoons are scattered throughout. Saxby will appeal to mystery fanatics and fans of Nancy Drew, the Hardy Boys, and Encyclopedia Brown.'Delia Carruthers, Roxbury Public Library, Succasunna, NJ

CHOYCE, Lesley. Reckless. 104p. (Orca Currents Series). Orca. 2010. PLB $16.95. ISBN 978-1-55469-224-8; pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-1-55469-223-1. LC number unavailable.
Gr 6-10-This high-interest, low-reading-level book is a fast-paced read. Josh is incredibly passionate about his four-stroke Kawasaki dirt bike, so much so that it sometimes feels like his only friend. During a ride on a logging road, he accidentally slams into a crazy-looking old man who is standing in the middle of his path, and who then confiscates the bike. Returning to retrieve it, Josh befriends the hermit, a Vietnam vet who chooses to live outside the grid, and who later needs Josh's help. The book twists and turns like a tricky dirt-bike track and flows just as quickly. One doesn't need a special interest in the vehicles to get pulled in, but a passion for them will enhance the story. Teacher resources are included on the Orca website.'Emily Chornomaz, West Orange Public Library, NJ

CHRISTOPHER, Lucy. Stolen. 304p. Scholastic/Chicken House. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-545-17093-2. LC 2009026330.
Gr 9 Up-While 16-year-old Gemma is en route to Vietnam from England with her parents, she is drugged and kidnapped from the Bangkok airport. She regains full consciousness in a rustic house deep in the Australian Outback with a 25-year-old man who is going to 'keep her forever.' Ty never sexually abuses her, but she is truly a captive. Little by little, Ty wears down her defenses as Gemma realizes that escape is impossible. Soon she discovers the stark power and vibrancy of the wilderness and becomes absorbed in it. She also learns that Ty has been stalking her for years, devising a crafty plan to steal her away to make her love him'which she ultimately believes she does. Ty's capture, taming, and release of a female camel effectively parallels Gemma's ordeal. Her unique first-person narrative is written to Ty after her release. Both characters are as vivid as the desert setting in which they are immersed. Despite the fact that Ty is a kidnapper, the revelations about his difficult youth and his usually caring behavior allow readers, like Gemma, to eventually care about him. Disturbing, heartbreaking, and beautiful all at once, this book is the antithesis of the situational horror in Elizabeth Scott's Living Dead Girl (S & S, 2008).'Diane P. Tuccillo, Poudre River Public Library District, Fort Collins, CO

COVENTRY, Susan. The Queen's Daughter. 384p. map. Holt. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-8992-9. LC number unavailable.
Gr 9 Up-This coming-of-age novel is set against the backdrop of 12th-century Europe. King Henry II of England is at war with France's King Louis VII, who happens to be supported by Henry's eldest sons. Henry's wife, Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, gives lessons on politics and what it means to be a queen to their daughter Joan. Despite her notorious parents, this is Joan's story. Coventry does a thorough job of developing the princess's character as she grows from a naive child of seven at the start of the novel into a woman in her 30s who has full knowledge of the world around her. Readers are privy to Joan's thoughts about love for two parents who hate one another, her fear of becoming a child bride in an arranged marriage to the king of Sicily, and her uncertainty about how to please him. Throughout her many years of childless marriage to William, she holds feelings of adoration for the philandering Lord Raymond, Count of Toulouse. By the time they meet again, Joan is no shrinking violet, and she is finally able to fulfill all of her duties as a wife and strong female leader of her people. The battle scenes of the Crusades are necessary to the development of the plot and are thankfully short. Fans of historical fiction, and especially historical romance, will devour this volume.'Wendy Scalfaro, G. Ray Bodley High School, Fulton, NY

COVILLE, Bruce. The Last Hunt. Bk. 4. 605p. (The Unicorn Chronicles). CIP. Scholastic. 2010. Tr $18.99. ISBN 978-0-545-12807-0. LC 2009043125.
Gr 5-8-This final volume satisfyingly concludes an exciting and intricately plotted series that began with Into the Land of Unicorns (Scholastic) 16 years ago. In the parallel world of Luster, inhabited by a large cast of familiar creatures such as unicorns and dragons, along with unfamiliar beings such as Squijum, a squirrel/monkeylike creature, and Dimblethum, a half human, half bearlike creature, Coville creates an epic story of the fight for good versus evil with all of its inherent ambiguities. Beloved's centuries-old vow to hunt down and kill all of Luster's unicorns because one killed her father is finally about to come true. Only teenaged Cara, with her mixed unicorn and human blood, granddaughter of the Queen of the Unicorns, and of Beloved herself, can save them. Powerful beings older than the land itself aid Cara in her quest to heal the rift and defeat Beloved. Despite this volume's length, the pace is brisk, with one cliff-hanging adventure following another right up to the climactic conclusion. Events from previous books are mentioned in the narrative, making it not absolutely necessary to have read the other books in order, although that would be ideal. Fans of the series will be delighted.'sharon Rawlins, New Jersey State Library, Trenton

CRAWFORD, Brent. Carter's Big Break. 240p. Hyperion/Disney. 2010. RTE $15.99. ISBN 978-1-4231-1243-3. LC number unavailable.
Gr 8 Up-In this hilarious sequel to Carter Finally Gets It (Hyperion, 2009), readers once again meet up with Will Carter, 14, who has a terrific girlfriend, Abby, and has just come off a terrific run playing Sky Masterson in his school's performance of Guys and Dolls. Carter thinks everything is going his way when he's cast as the lead in an independent film, but he ends up losing his girlfriend in the process. Fortunately, his new costar just happens to be Hilary Idaho, a Miley Cyrus-type character who ends up making Carter forget all about Abby'or does she' As Carter gets to know Hilary, he finds things hidden beneath her public persona that he's not sure he wants to know about. Plus, making a movie is a lot harder than it looks, especially when his ex-girlfriend is cast as Hilary's stand-in. Carter is a character who will definitely appeal to boys'he's crass, outspoken, and obsessed with T & A. This fast and fun read will definitely appeal to reluctant readers who want to see the underdog succeed in life and love. A must-have, especially where the first book is popular.'Traci Glass, Eugene Public Library, OR

CUMMINGS, Priscilla. Blindsided. 240p. CIP. Dutton. July 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-525-42161-0. LC 2009025092.
Gr 6-10-Natalie, 14, knows that her future is becoming dimmer as the loss of her eyesight is a nightmare she can't avoid. Her vision has been diminishing from a congenital disease since she was eight, but now the prognosis is not if, but when. As she states, 'You can't prepare for going blind.' Part of going from denial to acceptance is attending a boarding school for the blind. Hostile, angry, and uncooperative at first, she slowly begins to concentrate on learning Braille, using her cane, taking self-defense classes, and making new friends. This story probes the overlooked gifts of physical normalcy and brings awareness to the tremendous barriers the blind face'visible and otherwise. Natalie is a credible character and her fear is palpable and painful. From boarding-school life where she and her roommate are attacked by drunks, to back at her family's farm where all goes wrong, readers follow her emotional and physical struggle. First there's the compromised birth of a goat, and Natalie must reach into the birth canal to save the baby. As she notes 'Even eyesight wouldn't help her now.' Meanwhile, a rabid bear is beating down the barn door. This all-at-once action is a bit over-the-top, but it showcases Natalie's emergence from despair and her capabilities. Readers will enjoy the high drama and heroics.'Alison Follos, North Country School, Lake Placid, NY

CUPALA, Holly. Tell Me a Secret. 304p. HarperCollins/HarperTeen. July 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-176666-4. LC number unavailable.
Gr 9 Up-As school begins, 17-year-old Rand knows that she is pregnant. She wants to tell her boyfriend, but after being away at camp all summer she doesn't feel as close to Kamran as she once did. Making matters worse, she is increasingly certain that he is dating her best friend behind her back. Because of this, Rand is all but cut off from her social group, and her controlling mother and emotionally absent father, still reeling from the death of their other daughter five years earlier, don't offer any emotional support either. When she decides to keep her baby, her parents force her to give up her dreams of art school to get a job. Just when everything seems like it couldn't possibly get any worse, Rand faces the dangerously early birth of her baby. In the end, she discovers not only who her true friends are, but also the truth about her sister's death. Along with a rekindled relationship with her parents, these facets of the story contribute to a somewhat resolved ending, though not much positive happens during this bleak novel. Even if other characters are not outright mean to her, almost no one treats Rand with any kindness. Some may appreciate Cupala's gritty realism, but others will find this overwrought book a real downer.'Jennifer Miskec, Longwood University, Farmville, VA

DAYTON, Anne & May Vanderbilt. Love Will Keep Us Together. 304p. (Miracle Girls Series). Faith Words. 2010. pap. $9.99. ISBN 978-0-446-40758-8. LC number unavailable.
Gr 9 Up-This conclusion to the series offers Riley's perspective on the main characters' senior year of high school. The authors do a skillful job of filling in the backstory, so readers are up to speed on why Riley, Zoe, Ana, and Christine are so important to one another. (Each teen miraculously survived a life-threatening event.) Riley is the one who has it all: she's beautiful and breezes through AP courses, has many friends, and could get into any college, including Harvard. However, she is not sure where she wants to go, and she doesn't want to apply to a school that is someone else's dream for her. Her second problem: her younger brother struggles with Asperger's syndrome and is having a difficult time fitting in at high school. Riley cannot always protect him from cruel classmates, or even from himself. Problem number three: how to handle hypocritical Christians especially in light of the fact that she is struggling with her own faith. The Miracle Girls are dynamic characters, and the authors offer a realistic depiction of teen issues. This series could be seen as the Christian teen's answer to Ann Brashares's 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' (Delacorte).'Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

DE VIGAN, Delphine. No and Me. tr. from French by George Miller. 256p. CIP. Bloomsbury. Aug. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-5990-479-5. LC 2009036897.
Gr 9 Up-Lou Bertignac's family has been broken since her infant sister died five years ago. Her severely depressed mother never leaves their Paris apartment, while her father cries in secret and tries to hold the family together. When 13-year-old Lou invites No, a homeless 18-year-old, to move in with them, No's presence starts to draw Lou's mother out, allowing the family to start to heal. Despite Lou's best efforts, however, a place to sleep and people to look after her are not enough to help No. Lou's gifted but socially naive mind constantly analyzes the world around her. People confuse and fascinate her. This character-driven coming-of-age story relies less on plot and more on Lou's changing philosophies as her relationship with No expands her worldview. Although Lou grows considerably, she refuses to let No's frequent betrayals and backslides into self-destructive behavior destroy her optimism. Told in brief scenes interspersed with Lou's questions and findings, this novel explores the intersection and interdependence of lives and how relationships change the people in them and around them. The directness of Lou's narration, coupled with the structure of the novel, gives it a spare quality, resulting in a profound and haunting book.'Jennifer Rothschild, Prince George's County Memorial Library System, Oxon Hill, MD

DOCTOROW, Cory. For the Win. 480p. Tor. 2010. Tr $9.99. ISBN 978-0-7653-2216-6. LC number unavailable.
Gr 10 Up-Wei-dong, known to his Orange County family as Leonard, is addicted to guild game play with his Chinese colleagues. Mala and Yasmin, brilliant strategists, are gaming from an Internet cafe in the poor streets of Dharavi. Matthew and Lu are trying to establish their own freelance gold-farming operation in the rough city of Shenzhen. Guided from Singapore by the secretive Big Sister Nor, these young people are slowly coming together and forming a union to demand basic working conditions and protection from organized crime rackets. In order to prove their strength, these Webblies take over the three games owned by the Coca-Cola Company. Battling for real-world rights in a virtual environment, they must overcome corrupt cops, determined sys ops, and social indifference to beat the game. Doctorow is continually at the leading edge of electronic issues, rallying supporters to the causes of intellectual freedom, privacy, and social justice. Readers will appreciate the game descriptions, but will have a harder time relating the gold-farming issues back to their own play. Lengthy asides detail the workings of the game economies, but they aren't as skillfully incorporated as in Little Brother (Tor, 2008). The characters are well formed, but at times it is difficult to keep their interactions in order. Leonard's internal rant with his father is preachy and somewhat tenuous as a justification for the benefits of social gaming. On the other hand, Yasmin's emotional turmoil and attempt to reconcile her upbringing with her current circumstances is honest and rewarding. Full of action and information, this is a solid, if occasionally soapbox-worthy, narrative.'Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library

DOWNING, Erin. Kiss It. 288p. CIP. S & S/Pulse. 2010. pap. $9.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-9700-9. LC 2009036507.
Gr 9 Up-Eighteen-year-old Chastity Bryan had sex with wishy-washy nice guy Hunter Johnson (it was over before it started), and now he's in love with her. She's on a mission to have more, better sex, and love has nothing to do with it. Meanwhile, she finds out her parents have kept her dad's prostate cancer secret from her. Then her friend Sadie gets pregnant. When impossibly hot Sebastian comes to town over Christmas break to visit his dad, he and Chaz connect instantly. He doesn't want to take their relationship any further, but won't say why. While Chaz's preoccupation with the act of sex is refreshing in a female protagonist, Downing's eventual object lesson'sex is meaningless without love'is woefully heavy-handed. Sadie's pregnancy is a cheap way to show Chaz's caring side, and her miscarriage is so convenient that it calls the authenticity of the entire narrative into question. Chastity is a likable protagonist, and her tongue-in-cheek observations are funny and smart. Her running commentary on the absurdity of small-town life sets a playful mood, though her deeper thoughts are more tell than show. Sebastian is sufficiently sweet and clever, and sentimental Sadie is Chastity's perfect foil. Too many subplots slow the pace of an otherwise engaging story.'Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

DUTTON, Sandra. Mary Mae and the Gospel Truth. 144p. Houghton Harcourt. 2010. Tr $15. ISBN 978-0-547-24966-7. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-7-Mary Mae has always accepted the conservative, religious teachings of her family, including a very literal interpretation of the Bible. However, the arrival of her granny and a new teacher cause the 10-year-old to question everything she has ever known. When Miss Sizemore starts to teach the class about fossils, Mary Mae begins asking questions of the adults in her life, and her mother decides it would be better for Mary Mae to be homeschooled. At no point in the story does the child ever question the existence of God; she only sees God doing things in a different way. While her mother chooses to see science as an enemy to her beliefs, Mary Mae sees it as an extension of God's work. Miss Sizemore opens her up to a new world, where inquisitiveness is not only valued, but is key. Here the relationship with Granny is also crucial to the story; she is always there to listen to Mary Mae and does not discourage her. This simple act of support gives the child the confidence she needs to not give up her quest for knowledge. This is a great story with valuable lessons. Told in an Appalachian dialect, it not only depicts real feelings about religion, but also shows the people behind them as good. It is both a lovely coming-of-age story and a lesson in respect between religion and science.'Kerry Roeder, The Brearley School, New York City

FAGAN, Cary. The Big Swim. 128p. CIP. Groundwood. 2010. Tr $14.95. ISBN 978-0-88899-969-6. LC C2009-906084-1.
Gr 4-6-Ethan works hard to integrate himself into summer-camp routine. Much to his surprise, he makes friends easily and succeeds at not being the worst at any activity. Everything changes, though, when Zachary arrives, shrouded in a bad attitude and a mysterious past. He isn't interested in getting along, or even in participating in group activities. He tells Ethan that it's okay to want things for yourself, a philosophy that frees Ethan from some of his inhibitions. The setting is rich and the characters are interesting and fresh. Unfortunately, the plot never answers some of its biggest questions, such as the truth about Zach's past. The symbolism of the Big Swim event, in which campers try to swim to an island and back, but that Zach tries to do alone, is well played out, but other plot elements will leave readers with many questions.'Wendy E. Dunn, Fort Worth Public Library, TX

FERGUS, Maureen. Ortega. 224p. Web sites. CIP. Kids Can/KCP Fiction. 2010. Tr $16.95. ISBN 978-1-55453-474-6. LC C2009-906522-3.
Gr 5-8-Ortega is a lowland gorilla that was removed from the wild and physically altered at birth in an experiment to determine whether or not a gorilla can do what humans do. He is rendered capable of speech through various surgeries and raised by scientists attempting to teach him language (written and verbal) as well as social customs. As the novel begins, 11-year-old Ortega is being integrated into a regular middle school. His attachment to Dr. Susan, with whom he lives, is familial, and it is reciprocated. Unfortunately, the main scientist in charge of the experiment isn't happy with some of the results and has decided to sell Ortega and move onto another project. He is shocked to find that when all is said and done, he is still an animal and as such has no rights whatsoever. It will take an intervention by his new friends at school to save him and allow him to be himself, whatever that self may be. This is a subtle sort of science-fiction tale that seems almost plausible. As such it taps into the basic emotions of 'where do I belong'' as well as universal needs for companionship and love. The characters, both primary and secondary, are realistically drawn, with the exception of the villain, who is a bit two-dimensional. The story's excitement and suspense as well as the emotional drama will ensnare readers. This interesting, affecting novel will definitely find an audience.'saleena L. Davidson, South Brunswick Public Library, Monmouth Junction, NJ

FRAZIER, Sundee T. The Other Half of My Heart. 304p. Delacorte. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73440-0; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90446-9. LC 2009013209.
Gr 4-6-Twins Keira and Minni, 11, are used to the funny looks their 'chessboard family' receives: Keira takes after their black mother and Minni resembles their white father. In spite of differences in appearance and personality, the girls share a bond that they are convinced is unbreakable. When their maternal grandmother invites them to fly from their coastal Washington town to North Carolina and enroll in the Miss Black Pearl of America Program, their mother is hesitant, but finally agrees. Keira is ecstatic to enter, but introverted Minni is not happy. Her reservations seem well founded when they arrive: Grandmother Johnson is as persnickety as ever, and the program's president questions whether Minni qualifies to participate in an event for black girls. Minni learns what it feels like to be the odd person out in terms of appearance, and Keira is resentful that, up until now, Minni really hasn't understood what her sister was going through in their white Seattle suburb. The girls mature and learn a few things about their grandmother's struggle to be seen as an equal by the white community. As in Brendan Buckley's Universe and Everything in It (Delacorte, 2007), Frazier addresses issues faced by mixed-race children with a grace and humor that keep her from being pedantic. The story is enjoyable in its own right, but will also encourage readers to rethink racial boundaries and what it means to be black or white in America.'Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA

GIBSON, Heath. Gigged. 360p. CIP. Flux. 2010. pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-0-7387-1901-6. LC 2009031361.
Gr 9 Up-ROTC cadet J.T. is determined to follow his father's legacy, attend the Citadel, and become the best soldier he can be. He wants to forget the past, when he was the young, vulnerable Jason. His father died in the Gulf War, his mother was killed in an auto accident, and Jason endured horrific abuse in foster homes. Though he now lives with a caring guardian, J.T. is slow to open up or trust. He engages in relentless inner conversations, pushing himself to be tough and disciplined, unlike Jason. He eats and breathes military life, and this interest is reflected throughout (even the chapters have military code-word titles). As ROTC captain, J.T. is determined to whip his squad into fighting shape, and winning the drill competition will help him secure a Citadel scholarship. The plan is jeopardized by a snotty rich kid who relentlessly bullies J.T. until a confrontation is inevitable. The story is told in first person with an odd cadence of clipped sentences and the absence of pronouns. Italicized text denotes flashbacks to traumatic episodes in Jason's life. The plot builds slowly, picks up speed, and then falls flat with an ending that will leave readers confused. It seems that Pickens, a cadet in J.T.'s squad with whom he has had numerous interactions and conversations, is imaginary. There isn't enough in the narrative to suggest that these contacts are delusional. Instead of delivering an 'aha' moment, this plot contrivance turns the story on end and makes it all seem implausible.'Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA

GIBSON, Marley. The Reason. Bk. 3. 230p. (Ghost Huntress Series). Houghton/Graphia. 2010. pap. $8.99. ISBN 978-0-547-15095-6. LC number unavailable.
Gr 6 Up-High school senior Kendall Moorehead has strong psychic abilities, so when she has a vision of her own death, she is understandably shaken. Two months later, Kendall finds out that strange things have been happening at the mayor's house, and she and her ghost-hunting friends agree to investigate. What follows is a wild ride on the paranormal train, complete with ectoplasm, channeling, and an out-of-body experience. In the end, Kendall is able to tie up important (and unpredictable) loose ends with the spirit guide in the mayor's house, her family, her boyfriend, the vision she had of her own death, and her spirit guide. Unfortunately, a spotty plot, uneven characters, and outdated teen slang make this book hard to take seriously. Consider only where previous 'Ghost Huntress' books have been popular.'Amanda Moss Struckmeyer, Middleton Public Library, WI

GRABENSTEIN, Chris. The Smoky Corridor. Bk. 3. (Haunted Places Mystery Series). 336p. CIP. Random. Aug. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-375-86511-4; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-375-96511-1. LC 2009050694.
Gr 5-8-This third entry in the series continues the adventures of Zach Jennings, who has the uncanny ability to see and talk with ghosts. His entrance into sixth grade is complicated by the brain-eating zombie that sleeps under the school guarding a Confederate treasure trove for a voodoo-practicing ghost waiting to take over the body of an unsuspecting child. With a maze of tunnels under it, a cemetery behind it, and guardian ghosts wandering through it, this middle school is far worse than most. Murders are committed in the quest for the treasure, but the creepiness tends to be so over-the-top, and there is so much humor in the book, that the evil is mitigated. Zach is a likable character, resigned to his ghost-seeing abilities and often trying to connect with his inner superhero. He's also nervous about the new school, realistic about his status there, and wants to make friends and avoid the school bully. With its short chapters, Smoky Corridor might appeal to some reluctant readers, but there are a lot of characters, including ghosts, to keep track of, and the plot is full of twists and turns that could be confusing. Grabenstein is a riveting storyteller; most kids won't be able to put this book down. Its appeal will be wide, as it is a mystery, a thriller, a ghost story, a school story, an action adventure, and a humorous book. It can stand alone, although reading the earlier titles does provide some pertinent background information.'Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

HADDIX, Margaret Peterson. Sabotaged. Bk. 3. 384p. (The Missing Series). S & S. Aug. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-5424-8. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-9-This volume picks up immediately where book two left off, with Jonah, Katherine, and Andrea going to the time period when Andrea was kidnapped. She is Virginia Dare, the first English child to be born in the ill-fated Roanoke Colony. During their time journey, the Elucidator is lost, and the children arrive not certain as to where or when they are. Jonah pieces together that Andrea deliberately lost the Elucidator, and she admits she was following the directive of a mystery man who promised that she could stop her 21st-century parents from dying in a car crash if she did what he said. Unsure of what they've been sent back to do, the children decide to try to find the inhabitants of the colony. Along the way they save the life of Andrea's 16th-century grandfather, and she feels more and more that she is supposed to stay with him. Familiarity with the first two books is a must, and even then, this story is somewhat confusing. The integration of background material is not consistently clear, so unless readers have studied the history of the Roanoke Colony, they may not understand what is going on. This plodding novel is plot driven; there is little character development and there are no new hints as to Jonah's historical identity. Readers are told that the group will next go into the 17th century, but they may not have the patience to follow.'Cheri Dobbs, Detroit Country Day Middle School, Beverly Hills, MI

HARRIS, M. G. The Joshua Files: Invisible City. 384p. map. CIP. Walker. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8027-2095-5; pap. $8.99. ISBN 978-0-8027-2084-9. LC 2009030172.
Gr 5-8-An action-packed adventure involving conspiracy theories, end-of-the-world prophecies, government agents, futuristic technology, and a bit of the supernatural. When Joshua's father dies in a suspicious plane crash in Mexico, the 13-year-old flies across the Atlantic to investigate. Explanatory passages mix neatly into the action, and readers put the pieces together along with Josh, who narrates in the present tense. Background information is clearly explained, and ancient Maya prophecies of world disaster in the year 2012 play a central role. Eventually Joshua discovers a secret society that has remained hidden for centuries. In an appealing twist, the members are not just keepers of ancient traditions; they're high-tech geniuses with airplanes so cool they resemble UFOs. The story zips along as Josh survives high-speed chases by car, airplane, and boat along with various threats from spies, agents, witches, and crocodiles. With everything that's going on, there's not much room for character development. Joshua is engaging enough, but his relationships with the two friends who accompany him, the mother he leaves in England, and his newly discovered sister are not especially convincing. Occasional stiff dialogue and plot contrivances are barely noticeable because there are so many intriguing ideas and exciting scenes to keep the pages turning. Josh's quest for an ancient codex reaches a satisfying ending in this first book in the series, and at the same time builds anticipation for further revelations in sequels to come.'steven Engelfried, Wilsonville Public Library, OR

HARRISON, Mette Ivie. The Princess and the Snowbird. 232p. HarperCollins/HarperTeen. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-06-155317-2. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-9-Two very different young people cross paths and their lives are changed forever in this fantasy seemingly set during the Middle Ages. Liva has aur-magic, which enables her to change into any animal she wishes. She lives in a cave with her loving mother and father, a hound and a bear. Jens, on the other hand, has no magic. He lives in a village with a cruel and abusive father. Liva and Jens both share a love for animals, compassion for all living things, and genuine selflessness. They are drawn together by this commonality and by a common enemy. The Hunter believes that aur-magic lowers humans to the level of animals and wants to destroy all those who possess it. As events unfold, readers learn that both Liva and Jens have an even greater reason to pursue and stop the Hunter. The author skillfully combines adventure, magic, and romance, and her exquisite use of words draws readers into the story.'Lana Miles, Jackson Elementary School, Rosenberg, TX

HART, Alison. Emma's River. illus. by Paul Bachem. 160p. CIP. Peachtree. 2010. Tr $12.95. ISBN 978-1-56145-524-9. LC 2009024506.
Gr 4-6-Emma Wright, 10, is excited to ride the steamboat Sally May up the Missouri River to Kansas City to meet her father. From there the family will travel west to California to make their fortune during the boom time of 1852. However, she loves her pony, Licorice Twist, and as she and her mother are getting settled on the boat she worries about his welfare. During a trip down to the forbidden main deck, Emma meets stowaway Patrick O'Brien, who is about 11 or 12. At first the two don't get along, but they eventually become friends and he takes care of her horse in exchange for food. When the boiler explodes, Emma finds out just how much of a friend Patrick really is. As she schemes and struggles to find a way to see her horse, readers are given a child's-eye view of a steamboat trip in the mid-1800s. True to the time, the word 'Negro' is used and there are some stereotypical attitudes about Indians. Though unevenly paced and with some unbelievable aspects'particularly Emma's ignorance about her mother's pregnancy'this novel is a good introduction to the period. It is especially suited to 'American Girl' series fans looking for slightly longer books. Emma is a plucky heroine and while not much happens until the very end of her story, readers will enjoy following her as she learns and grows. The ending leaves open the possibility for a sequel.'Necia Blundy, Marlborough Public Library, MA

HARVEY, Sarah N. Plastic. 120p. (Orca Soundings Series). CIP. Orca. 2010. PLB $16.95. ISBN 978-1-55469-253-8; pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-1-55469-252-1. LC 2009940840.
Gr 8 Up-Any book that opens with 40 different terms for breasts is going to have a certain appeal for preteen and teen boys. Jack is into female anatomy, even though he hasn't had any real experience with a naked woman. When his best friend decides to have plastic surgery to enhance her breasts for her 16th birthday, he is horrified. In his quest to stop her, he finds there are some unscrupulous physicians who are mutilating young people with a complete disregard for anything but the paycheck. Jack visits three local plastic surgeons for bogus consultations and finds one who instantly agrees that his perfectly normal nose is deformed. Jack and his mom decide to peacefully protest doing plastic surgery on teenagers at the surgeon's office, and the news picks up the story. This novel is characteristically fast paced and of high interest. Information about both the pros and the cons of plastic surgery is included without detracting from the plot. Plastic does a good job of exploring an important societal issue while telling a timely tale.'Emily Chornomaz, West Orange Public Library, NJ

HAWORTH, Danette. The Summer of Moonlight Secrets. 240p. Walker. 2010. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-8027-9520-5. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-8-Allie Jo Jackson, 13, lives with her parents in the famous, fading Meriwether hotel, near Hope Springs, FL. She is ready for a less-than-stellar summer when Chase arrives with his travel-writer dad and proceeds to break his arm while skateboarding down a hotel hall. He is soon followed by sweet Sophie and a beautiful mystery girl, Tara, whose gleaming hair, shining skin, startling good looks, and penchant for midnight swims start the others wondering about her identity. The old hotel, with its grand staircase, long halls, crumbling upper floors, secret passages, and abandoned speakeasy, is just as much a character in the book as the young teenagers, all of whom face personal problems. The cast also includes a group of mean girls who taunt Allie Jo, calling her 'hotel rat,' and a creepy man who insists that Tara is his runaway niece. Described in chapters that are alternately narrated by Allie Jo, Chase, and Tara, the summer flows along, filled with ordinary activities like card games and polishing the hotel's brass fittings. Then Allie Jo and Chase discover Tara's identity, but are not sure whether to believe her strange story. There is a touch of summer magic and a dollop of mystery in this compelling story.'Kathryn Kosiorek, formerly at Cuyahoga County Public Library, Brooklyn, OH

HENNESY, Carolyn. Pandora Gets Heart. Bk. 4. 260p. (Mythic Misadventures Series). CIP. Bloomsbury. 2010. Tr $14.99. ISBN 978-1-59990-439-9. LC 2009022664.
Gr 4-7-With the help of Hermes, Pandy and her friends travel back in time 1300 years to Mount Pelion in search of Lust at the wedding of mortal King Peleus to the goddess Thetis. Upset that she was not invited, Eris, the Goddess of Discord, places Lust in a golden apple with 'To the fairest' engraved on it and hurls it into the ceremony. Lust for the apple falls upon Aphrodite, Athena, and Hera. Pandy and her friends go through many ordeals in order to retrieve it, including Paris's judging of who is the fairest, being maimed or blinded, Hera's meddling, and going back to the near present to retrieve the golden apple from a new temple for Aphrodite. Hennesy brings a light, convivial tone to the dialogue and plot that'while adding a modern spin'at times seems awkward and distracts from the story. Pandora Gets Heart is a suitable addition for those who have purchased other books in the series; others might consider passing on it.'Adrienne L. Strock, Maricopa County Library District, AZ

HIGSON, Charlie. The Enemy. 440p. Hyperion/Disney. 2010. RTE $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4231-3175-5. LC number unavailable.
Gr 7 Up-In this dystopian thriller set in London, everyone over 16 is dead or diseased, and youngsters are in constant danger of being eaten by boil-infested grown-ups who roam the streets like zombies looking for children to kill. Led by teens Arran and Maxie and armed with makeshift weapons, a group of kids sets out from the uncertain safety of an abandoned supermarket to travel to Buckingham Palace, where a young messenger promises that food, medicine, and a haven are available. Along the way, Arran is killed. One youngster selfishly decides to stay behind with a secret stash of food and is there to tell Small Sam, who had been abducted and feared dead, where the others (including his sister) have headed. Sam's quest to find Ella parallels the story of the large group with similar run-ins with marauding adults and mistrustful children who scavenge about the city. The bleak setting is filled with decay, danger, and puss-oozing parents who have turned into butchers. On arriving at Buckingham Palace, Maxie decides that David, the teen leader there, is too tyrannical, and she must regain control of her brood and convince them to leave for a new location. The last chapter squelches any real hope for the future and will leave readers somewhat haunted and chilled about the doomsday scenario. Descriptive and suspenseful, this title is similar to but less imaginative than Patrick Ness's 'Chaos Walking' series (Candlewick).'Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

HOLT, Kimberly Willis. The Water Seeker. 320p. Holt/Christy Ottaviano Bks. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-8020-9. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-8-Born near Independence, MO, in 1833, Amos Kincaid has a difficult life from the start: his mother dies giving birth to him, his father is an often-absent trapper, and his early years are punctuated by illness, tense encounters with Native Americans, and hard work. When Jake finally returns to reclaim the growing boy, he takes him on one of the many pioneer trains heading to Oregon while hired on as a scout. Both Jake and Amos have a gift for dowsing water, but neither this nor other magical realism elements (such as manifestations of Amos's dead mother) add much to the story, which is at its best when detailing the harsh and often deadly conditions faced on the way to the Willamette Valley. However, Amos's coming-of-age story, shaped by the trials he faces and the influences of friends, relatives, and loves, is a well-developed character study. Libraries needing historical fiction will find this a worthy addition.'Christi Esterle, Parker Library, CO

HORNER, Emily. A Love Story Starring My Dead Best Friend. 259p. CIP. Dial. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8037-3420-3. LC 2009023820.
Gr 8 Up-After the death of her best friend, Cass finds herself questioning her own identity, sexuality, and place in the high school hierarchy. Before she died, Julia had been working on a top-secret project: a musical called Totally Sweet Ninja Death Squad. Now that she is gone, her boyfriend, Oliver, and her other theater friends are determined to stage the show as a tribute. Cass is committed to helping backstage, building spectacular traps and weapons'until Heather, Cass's middle school nemesis, is cast as the female lead. Heather was the first person to tease Cass about her close friendship with Julia and suggest that Cass wanted it to be something more, and since Julia's death, Oliver has been making barbed remarks, as well. In the face of these complications, Cass sets off on a quest of her own: biking cross-country to take Julia's ashes to California. She tells herself that she is not running away from Oliver's hostility, Julia's friends' cold shoulders, or Heather's disconcerting new niceness. The journey helps her discover things she never knew about herself, and when she finds herself at rock bottom, she learns that Julia's friends are her friends, too. This funny, touching, and sweet coming-of-age story explores serious themes in a fresh way. Cass's tentative questioning of her own sexuality and her hesitant approach toward her first serious romantic relationship will delight readers who struggle with similar issues, as well as those who simply enjoy a well-crafted story.'Misti Tidman, Boyd County Public Library, Ashland, KY

JOCELYN, Marthe. Folly. 249p. CIP. Random/Wendy Lamb Bks. 2010. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73846-0; PLB $18.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90731-6. LC 2009023116.
Gr 9 Up-Mary Finn is unmarried and pregnant. Her baby's father has disappeared and she's been dismissed from her domestic position. A kindhearted woman takes her in, but then dies after the baby is born, and Mary is homeless again. She realizes that her son's only hope for survival is to be raised in the Foundling Hospital. Six-year-old James has been happy in his foster home, but now he must return to the hospital, where he was placed by his mother as a baby, so he can receive his education. His third-person narrative, which takes place in 1884, alternates with Mary's first-person account, which is set between 1877 and 1878. This alternating point of view may be a bit confusing for teens at first, but the story will quickly pull them in. Jocelyn's characters are richly drawn and fully developed, and the setting of late-1800s London is vividly detailed. The climactic scenes between Mary and Eliza, another maid, are funny and sad at the same time. The novel has a melancholy feel to it, but readers will care very much for these characters as they experience first love and sex, physical pain, jealousy, homelessness, hunger, shame, desertion, and heart-wrenching decisions. Teens will find Folly historically enlightening as well as rewarding.'Wendy Scalfaro, G. Ray Bodley High School, Fulton, NY

KIMMEL, Elizabeth Cody. The Reinvention of Moxie Roosevelt. 248p. CIP. Dial. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8037-3303-9. LC 2009037939.
Gr 5-8-Moxie Roosevelt Kipper, 13, has always felt too ordinary for her extraordinary name, and she plans to reinvent herself now that she has gone away to boarding school on a music scholarship. At the Eaton Academy for Girls, she tries out several personas, including Mysterious Earth Goddess (MEG), Hale and Hearty Sports Enthusiast (HHSE), and Detached, Unique, Coolly Knowing Individual (DUCKI). Moxie keeps a logbook just to remember which personality she's been using with whom. It's exhausting, but she's holding it together, just barely, until she realizes that her journal is missing. She's terrified it might land in the wrong hands. Moxie is every young teen who believes that other people's lives are more exciting than her own and wants to make herself special, too. While her misadventures are hilarious, Moxie is an endearing, complex character with whom young adults can easily identify. In the end, she realizes that true friends like you for who you are and enjoy differences as well as similarities. This great book has a good message without ever becoming preachy.'Nancy P. Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC

KINCY, Karen. Other. 336p. Flux. July 2010. pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-0-7387-1919-1. LC number unavailable.
Gr 9 Up-This fresh take on a modern fantasy is set in Washington State. Shape-shifters, vampires, werewolves, and the like are called 'Others,' and 'normal humans' are well aware of their existence. Others are being murdered, and it seems that a serial killer may be on the prowl. Several deaths are too close for comfort for teenage half-pooka Gwen. She discovers a dead couple, both water sprites, and her friend, a Dryad, hanging from a tree in the forest. Gwen searches for answers, all the while unsure of whom to trust and what exactly it means to be Other. In another wrinkle, Gwen's boyfriend comes from an ultra-Christian family who feel that Others are an abomination. He doesn't know that Gwen is half-pooka until after they lose their virginity to one another. The emotional turmoil of the characters is evident and will appeal to readers who have felt misunderstood or as if they don't belong'teenagers.'Genevieve Gallagher, Charlottesville High School, VA

LAFEVERS, R. L. Theodosia and the Eyes of Horus. illus. by Yoko Tanaka. 375p. Houghton Harcourt. 2010. Tr $16. ISBN 978-0-547-22592-0. LC 2009049709.
Gr 4-6-Theodosia Throckmorton wears gloves all the time. It's a good thing, because they often protect her from the cursed Egyptian artifacts that her parents keep bringing into their Museum of Legends and Antiquities. In this book, 11-year-old Theo once again gets herself mixed up with the Serpents of Chaos and the Arcane Order of the Black Sun as she and her brother try to steal the Emerald Tablet that they accidentally found in the museum basement. She is curious about the Egyptian magician, Awi Bubu, who seems to know quite a bit about the Tablet and about Theodosia herself, in the end revealing a secret about her birth that might explain her powers of detecting and eliminating curses. In a final standoff, Theodosia discovers her stiff-upper-lipped grandmother might be more interesting than she suspects and that she might be able to call a truce with a hated curator. Though this series involves a great deal of magic, its setting in Victorian England with colorful characters from all walks of life makes it seem like a realistic story. A few full-page graphite drawings dispersed throughout add to the descriptions of scenes. This is a book to recommend enthusiastically to any reader who likes Egyptian history, a good mystery, or fast-paced action. The ending also promises another exciting installment, leaving readers wanting more. Since past adventures and relationships are mentioned without explanation, this is a series best read in order.'Clare A. Dombrowski, Amesbury Public Library, MA

LASKY, Kathryn. Hawksmaid: The Untold Story of Robin Hood and Maid Marian. 292p. CIP. HarperCollins. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-000071-4. LC 2009024097.
Gr 5-9-After her mother is murdered and the family's castle is looted by followers of Prince John, Matty takes over the management of her father's hawks, learning their language and coming to share their consciousness. Half-orphaned and often hungry, she grows to be Maid Marian, friend and coconspirator with her childhood companion Fynn, renamed Robin Hood. In Lasky's reimagining of this legend, Marian is chief strategist of the band of boys who rob the rich, harass Prince John's evil supporters, and hope to ransom captive King Richard. There is a gentle but thoroughly modern love story, too. Matty may have been her father's jewel, but her growing affection for Robin does not turn her back into a decorative object; she is the heroine of her successful quest, leading both birds and boys. Her five hawks are distinctive, and for them, the author of the owl fantasy series 'Guardians of Ga'hoole,' has created a language and a convincing, if anachronistic, falconer. Lasky nicely weaves details of 12th-century life into this suspenseful adventure whose fantasy ending may surprise but will certainly please readers.'Kathleen Isaacs, Children's Literature Specialist, Pasadena, MD

LE VANN, Kate. Things I Know About Love. 160p. Egmont USA. 2010. RTE $15.99. ISBN 978-1-60684-078-8; PLB $18.99. ISBN 978-1-60684-096-2. LC number unavailable.
Gr 7 Up-British teen Livia is winging her way to New Jersey to visit her brother, a student at Princeton, when she begins her private blog. She has decided that this will be a summer of discovery, and her blog will reflect 'the love I have known, and the love I have yet to know.' The truth is, though, that Livia doesn't know much about love between men and women because she has spent most of her teen years in treatment for leukemia. Now that she's in remission, she determines that this is her perfect chance for adventure. Despite her na'et'and insecurity about her looks, she is ready to step out, and she discovers that America is chock-full of handsome guys who look at her with great interest. Ironically, it's Adam, also from England, whom Livia wants. Adam, who thinks she is the most beautiful creature on Earth, who starts his own blog about their romance, and who is with Livia day after day, and with her when she collapses in New York City after a busy day of sightseeing. And it is Adam who writes the final blog about what happens to Livia, the great love of his life. This romantic account of first love will be treasured by teen girls, but will require that large boxes of tissues be on hand.'susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

MACLEAN, Jill. The Present Tense of Prinny Murphy. 230p. CIP. Fitzhenry & Whiteside. 2010. pap. $11.95. ISBN 978-1-55455-145-3. LC C2009-904304-1.
Gr 5-8-A companion story to The Nine Lives of Travis Keating (Fitzhenry & Whiteside, 2008), also set in Fiddler's Cove, Newfoundland. Prinny Murphy's father has kicked her mother out of the house because she will not stop drinking. Her best friend, Travis, has taken to the pretty new girl, Laice, who is nasty to Prinny. And the Shrikes, three girls who Prinny named after a vicious bird that eats smaller birds, invite her to a party, get her drunk, and then blackmail her with embarrassing photos. Her father doesn't speak much. Her mother is off drinking uncontrollably, and Prinny cannot decide if she hates her or wants her home. Without Travis, she does not feel she has anyone to turn to, until a substitute teacher introduces her to LaVaughn, the main character in Virginia Euwer Wolff's Make Lemonade (Holt, 1993). Reading has never been easy for Prinny, but she longs to read every day about LaVaughn and enlists help from Travis, Travis's father, and, eventually, Laice to get through the novel. Through LaVaughn's story, Prinny finds her voice, her strength, and herself. This novel is not tied neatly with a bow, but it does end on a hopeful note. The characters are multidimensional and believable. All of them have flaws and secrets balanced with flashes of goodness. MacLean weaves them into a raw, realistic novel that reminds readers that finding your voice is sometimes harder than using it.'Delia Carruthers, Roxbury Public Library, Succasunna, NJ

MARKEY, Kevin. Wall Ball. 192p. (The Super Sluggers Series). HarperCollins. 2010. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-06-115221-4. LC number unavailable.
Gr 4-6-Sixth-grader Banjo H. Bishbash is known by his Rambletown Rounders teammates as 'the Great Walloper' because of his excellent hitting skills. Baseball is a distant memory for the team, however, because of a seemingly never-ending harsh winter. The start of the season has been delayed three times, and the boys are itching to defend their championship against the Hog City Haymakers. The team dynamic has changed, with one player out because of a broken leg and the arrival of a new teammate from Florida. While waiting for the first game, the close-knit group hits upon the idea of organizing a charity-fundraising hot-chocolate stand at school, which will serve spectators who have come to see the parking lot's extraordinary snow mound resembling Mount Rushmore. Markey explores the game's history effectively through J. Patrick Lewis's poem 'Father Time Is Coming,' which describes the changes in American baseball over time. Unfortunately, some readers may lose interest in the plot due to its lack of action, and the constant talk of bad weather and waiting for the start of the baseball season becomes repetitive and mundane.'Mairead McInnes, Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School, NY

MASS, Wendy. Finally. 296p. CIP. Scholastic. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-545-05242-9. LC 2009015474.
Gr 4-7-Rory Swenson just can't catch a break. She's been waiting for what seems like forever for her 12th birthday. According to her parents' rules, that is the magical age when she'll finally be able to partake in many formerly forbidden activities such as wearing contact lenses, getting a pet, owning a cell phone, piercing her ears, and staying home alone. Now that the day has finally come, she finds that growing up isn't as satisfying as she imagined. She's completely unprepared for the minor disasters that result: her new pet bunny seems homicidal; staying home alone is scarier than she thought; and her attempt at having her ears pierced reveals an allergy to gold. The only silver lining is her growing friendship with movie-star Jake Harrison, who is filming at her school. There's a nice twist at the end, when the many good deeds Rory has done without thinking of herself pay off, and she realizes that her misfortunes are minor. This novel pairs well with Mass's 11 Birthdays (Scholastic, 2009), but it stands on its own. Children will relate to this warm, funny story of a heroine who can't wait to grow up.'Madigan McGillicuddy, Los Angeles Public Library

MESSINA, Lynn. Little Vampire Women. 317p. CIP. HarperTeen. 2010. pap. $8.99. ISBN 978-0-06-197625-4. LC 2009053449.
Gr 6 Up-For fans of vampire literature, this book can be fun. It is a retelling of the Alcott classic with the March family as 'humanitarian' vampires'they will not ingest the blood of humans. Set as the original is during the Civil War, the story follows the traditional plot. The family must survive without Mr. March, who is off at war, bolstered by his abolitionist views. Marmee is home with her four lovely daughters. They are not interested in furthering their numbers. Jo refuses to mate with Laurie, even though he desperately wants to be a vampire, too. The Marches are not shunned from society and intermingle with some ordinary humans, though there are those who would do them harm. Although vampires are supposed to live forever, a strange illness has threatened Mr. March, and Beth does eventually succumb. Thus the role of the vampire defenders becomes important, and Jo is passionate about joining their ranks. Messina has cleverly interspersed footnotes in the text to explain some past vampire accomplishment or event. The serious, scholarly tone with which they are written makes them quite humorous. The author's prose style is sharp, and her imprint on these characters is distinct. There is certainly an audience for this selection, and it may introduce readers to a classic.'Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ

MEYER, Carolyn. The Bad Queen: Rules and Instructions for Marie-Antoinette. 420p. (Young Royals Series). bibliog. CIP. Houghton Harcourt. 2010. Tr $18. ISBN 978-0-15-206376-4. LC 2009019036.
Gr 6-9-This novel about the ill-fated queen covers her life from age 13 when, as an Austrian princess, she prepares to marry the French dauphin to her death by guillotine in 1793. The final section is told by her daughter Marie-Therese, the only family member to survive the Revolution. Meyer writes in a lighthearted, casual style, vividly portraying the historical era and aptly defining unfamiliar vocabulary. However, Marie-Antoinette's occasional sympathy for the poor and interest in politics is inconsistent with her flighty, self-indulgent character as presented in most of the book. (Frankly, she comes across as a total airhead.) In addition, after the first 100 pages, The Bad Queen turns into a speedy recitation of events, skipping through years at a time with little insight or development and little spark or personality from the narrators. Kimberley Brubaker Bradley's fascinating novel The Lacemaker and the Princess (S & S, 2007) features Marie-Therese and does an excellent job of integrating events leading up to the French Revolution with life at the palace of Versailles. Although it doesn't have as much material on Marie-Antoinette, it's more interesting and better written.'Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

MICHAEL, Ted. Crash Test Love. 352p. Delacorte. 2010. PLB $12.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90566-4; pap. $8.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73580-3. LC 2009013209.
Gr 10 Up-Self-proclaimed player and party crasher Henry Arlington has every intention of following the 'Crasher Code' that he and his buddies established, including never being with the same girl twice. But while cruising a Sweet Sixteen party with a fictitious identity, he meets beautiful and intriguing Garrett Lennox. New to East Shore High School, she struggles to make friends among the cliques of the senior class. While Henry ignores her and perpetuates the rumor that they hooked up at the party, Garrett is given a proposal by three mean girls, the J Squad. Lonely and missing her ex-boyfriend back in Chicago, she decides to accept the trio's challenge'in exchange for membership in their group, she must convince Henry to be her boyfriend and then dump him at a hotly anticipated, MTV-aired Sweet Sixteen party. As readers will anticipate, they wind up forming real feelings for one another and are faced with the consequences of their separate deceptions. Using interspersed movie-script format for dialogue and song references throughout, the narrative is trendy and indulgent. The evolution of Garrett's and Henry's characters is difficult to believe, and the supporting characters are stock and one- dimensional. However, romance fans will enjoy the familiar theme of reluctant, ill-fated love and entertainment aficionados will appreciate the popular-culture references. While the events surrounding the demise of the relationship stretch believability, the ending is realistic if not rewarding.'Lynn Rashid, Marriotts Ridge High School, Marriottsville, MD

MONTALBANO, Andrea. Breakaway. 202p. CIP. Philomel. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-399-25215-0. LC 2009027035.
Gr 5-8-Lily, 12, is the star of her soccer travel team. When her coach notices that her temper tantrums and self-centeredness prevent her from being the team player she could be, he benches her. There are several didactic monologues interspersed among some excellent play-by-play action scenes as Lily learns to overcome her disappointment and gain a better perspective. Montalbano brings a bit of humor to the story by describing parents of players as either 'Berries or Nuts''those who occasionally glance up at a game between texting on their BlackBerries and those who are overly obsessed with their child's performance on the field. Even though Lily's thorough transformation appears to be a bit abrupt, soccer-playing readers will recognize some of her traits either in themselves or in others and enjoy this tale of friendship through teamwork.'Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

MOSS, Jenny. Shadow. 377p. CIP. Scholastic. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-545-03641-2. LC 2009014209. Gr 5-9-Shadow has grown up with young Queen Audrey. A prophecy at the queen's birth predicted her death before her 16th birthday, and by staying at her side constantly, Shadow is supposed to help prevent that fate. While the two girls were close when they were younger, now that they are nearly 16, Audrey criticizes and taunts Shadow, who resents her lack of freedom and identity, never having known her parents. When Audrey dies suddenly, Shadow takes advantage of the ensuing chaos to escape the palace, with the help of Sir Kenway, a knight who was a close companion of Audrey's. As Shadow travels, she discovers clues to her own identity and destiny, and she has to mature and accept the new role that is being offered to her. Moss has created a complex story full of intrigue and secrets, with Audrey's regent and advisors sometimes seen as supporting her and sometimes against her, and with a variety of factions looking for power after her death. Shadow's first-person narration captures readers' interest and pulls them into the story as they come to understand her situation along with her. Her growth in perception and understanding as she moves beyond her own self-centeredness adds to the story's depth. Fans of fairy-tale retellings like Robin McKinley's Beauty (1978) and Gail Carson Levine's Ella Enchanted (1997, both HarperCollins) will enjoy this tale's slightly more mature mix of fantasy and adventure with a touch of romance.'Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI

NEWSOME, Richard. The Billionaire's Curse. Bk. 1. illus. by Jonny Duddle. 344p. (The Archer Legacy). CIP. HarperCollins/Walden Pond. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-194490-1. LC 2009042518.
Gr 5-8-Aussie Gerald Archer Wilkins, 13, becomes a reluctant billionaire when he inherits his great-aunt Geraldine's fortune. In a letter, Geraldine predicts her murder and asks him to investigate it and its connection to the theft of a priceless diamond from the British Museum. Gerald dutifully visits the institution but encounters difficulties when a threatening man demands answers at knifepoint. The boy picks up the obligatory sidekicks, twins Sam and Ruby Valentine, when they rescue him. The teens move from London to the new billionaire's country estate as they identify the thieves, using a set of mystical clues. An action-packed denouement complete with rats, snakes, and booby traps uncovers the true villain in this planned trilogy. Newsome's story will appeal to fans of '39 Clues'-style adventure-mysteries. While the dramatic escape scenes create a delicious urgency, the story is fairly predictable, and most readers will identify the villain quickly, despite the large cast of characters. Almost all of the twists occur when Gerald has a supernatural vision, so the plot lacks a degree of inner strength. Character development is nonexistent. The boy learns how to use a credit card and bribe taxi drivers, but his adventures instill in him no great resolve, except possibly a strong survival instinct. That said, many middle schoolers will enjoy this title without prompting, and adventure books are always in demand.'Caitlin Augusta, Stratford Library Association, CT

PARKKOLA, Seita. The School of Possibilities. tr. from Finnish by Annira Silver & Marja Gass. 368p. Sourcebooks/Jabberwocky. 2010. Tr $12.99. ISBN 978-1-4022-1835-4. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-8-This import explores themes of education, family, freedom, and rebellion through an innovative and entertaining narrative. Labeled 'an impossible child' because of his skateboarding and other impulsive behaviors, 12-year-old Storm is sent to the School of Possibilities, where 'desperate children learn obedience.' The boy soon experiences bizarre methods of discipline that include an assigned best friend who is clearly an enemy and a variety of subtle and overt humiliations from school staff and model students. As Storm's status worsens, he meets India, the enigmatic leader of a small group of homeless 'outlaw' kids who oppose the school. Using stealth and graffiti, they challenge the authorities and try to uncover the ominous secret that lies in the school's basement. Storm's wry narration shifts smoothly from humorous irony to fear and desperation, matching the satire and suspense that run simultaneously through the novel. His words and behavior are never predictable, making him an especially engaging protagonist. The evil counselor, also Storm's new stepmother, makes a formidable lead villain, while the robotic students and the boy's frustratingly apathetic parents serve as further threats to his freedom. The strongly developed urban setting has a surrealistic feel, with the looming, sterile school buildings literally and figuratively opposing the dark factory that the outlaws use as their refuge. Black-and-white line drawings neatly reflect the chaos of Storm's world. Foreshadowing occasionally delays forward progress of the plot, but the fine characterizations and palpable atmosphere are dynamic enough to hold interest, and build to a satisfying conclusion.'steven Engelfried, Wilsonville Public Library, OR

PERKINS, Lynne Rae. As Easy as Falling off the Face of the Earth. illus. by author. 352p. CIP. HarperCollins/Greenwillow. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-187090-3; PLB $17.89. ISBN 978-0-06-187091-0. LC 2009042524.
Gr 7 Up-This is a story of one misfortune after another. As the book opens, Ry, a 16-year-old Wisconsin resident en route to camp, is left behind in Middle-of-Nowhere, MT, as his stalled train pulls out and he recounts the events that led him to leave the train in the first place. Bad goes to worse: he loses a shoe and his phone charger, his grandfather back home is injured, and his parents are having their own misadventures in the Caribbean. A superhero of a fix-it guy named Del helps Ry to put his life back together. Along the way, readers learn that there is more to Del than initially meets the eye. The story is told in a traditional, episodic style, bouncing from one calamity to the next. The narration occasionally switches perspective to include the grandfather's tale of woe as well as well-drawn graphic-style portrayals of the family dogs' mishaps. The style is reminiscent of Chris Crutcher's, and the action is evocative of Gary Paulsen, but the freewheeling prose, quirky humor, and subtle life lessons are all Perkins's own. This novel is not going to be every teen boy's cup of tea, but its charms are undeniable.'Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL

RAILSBACK, Lisa. Noonie's Masterpiece. illus. by Sarajo Frieden. 208p. CIP. Chronicle. 2010. Tr $18.99. ISBN 978-08118-6654-5. LC 2008026831.
Gr 4-6-Noonie Norton, 10, considers herself a brilliant but undiscovered artist. Since the death of her artist mother, she lives with her aunt, uncle, and younger cousin, while her archaeologist father travels extensively. The girl is eccentric, donning odd clothes, daydreaming, drawing in class, and spontaneously using her peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich to make pictures on the school floor. She goes through blue and purple periods during which everything she wears or paints is in that color. Schoolmates stay away, except for Reno, a clumsy math nerd who idolizes her. Noonie misses her father greatly and writes him letters describing her Blue Flu, Moldy Blue Fever, or Biting Blue Rabies so he will come home, and he corresponds regularly, often sending her gifts he finds on his travels. Railsback's story, originally written as a play, maintains the prominent theme of art serving as therapy. Noonie's beloved Masterpieces of Art provides hours of comfort as she imagines her affinity with Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, Vincent Van Gogh, and others. Frieden's ink-and-watercolor illustrations float through the book like the dreamy thoughts of an aspiring young artist. Although a few characters are one-dimensional, Noonie's first-person chat with readers allows myriad emotions, and growth, to shine through. Interesting enough for reluctant readers, this title can be used in a unit on artists, but it also paints a lovely, quirky portrait as a stand-alone.'D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH

REES, Douglas. Vampire High: Sophomore Year. 256p. (Vampire High Series). Delacorte. July 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73725-8; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90657-9. LC number unavailable.
Gr 7 Up-To some, being human and attending a high school for vampires might be a little unnerving. But for Cody Elliot, it's a piece of cake. At Vlad Dracul he is cool, extremely popular, and dating an actual vampire princess. Unfortunately, when his difficult and opinionated cousin moves in, things get a little out of hand. Turk's tough Goth exterior and smart-aleck attitude antagonize the vampires and draw attention away from her own issues and insecurities. Art is her outlet, so when Turk discovers an abandoned warehouse in the uninhabited section of town, she enlists Cody's help to turn it into her new studio and make her mark on the world. What Cody and Turk don't realize is that Crossfield has a violent past, one that many, including the mysterious Mercian, want to keep hidden. Cody must make difficult choices at the risk of losing all that he holds dear while forging alliances and discovering secrets that will change New Sodom forever. Rees's fast-paced and action-packed story line tackles important teen issues like identity, belonging, friendship, and acceptance in a way that is not overbearing or preachy. With lots of humor and strong, engaging characters, this novel has an appeal factor that is sure to make its mark (or bite) on readers of this genre.'Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

REX, Adam. Fat Vampire: A Never Coming of Age Story. 336p. HarperCollins/Balzer & Bray. July 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-192090-5. LC number unavailable.
Gr 10 Up-Unlike most vampires who are drop-dead gorgeous, sexy, and irresistible, Doug is the exact opposite. Overweight, unpopular, and dorky, he seals his fate by being in the wrong place at the wrong time and as a result was attacked by a starving, newly made vampire. Now he must spend the rest of his immortal life as an unattractive 15-year-old, feeding off cows to satisfy his need for blood. With the support of some local vampire guardians and his friend Jay, the teen must now learn how to 'live' life as a vampire. If events aren't complicated enough, he falls for the 'new girl' at school, and has the star of the TV show Vampire Hunters hot on his trail, trying to expose him to the world. Rex's story falls flat. The back-and-forth narration between Doug and Sejal is confusing and slows down the plot. There are some promising moments, funny scenes, and intriguing themes that unfortunately just don't pan out.'Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

RIGBY, Robert. Goal!: Glory Days. 256p. Houghton/Graphia. 2010. pap. $6.99. ISBN 978-0-15-205921-7. LC number unavailable.
Gr 10 Up-The follow-up to Goal!: The Dream Begins (2006) and Goal! II: Living the Dream (2007, both Houghton) is the story of Santiago Mu'z's lifelong plan to become a world-famous soccer player. This installment continues up until the World Cup 2010. In fact, this book actually covers the story of two lives: Santiago and his stepbrother Enrique, who is now living in England with Santiago, his wife Roz, and their new daughter, and plays on the Newcastle Soccer Under-16 team. Rigby does an admirable job of catching readers up with the plotline, even though fans of the earlier two books will begin from page one with a caring fondness and hope that Santiago succeeds in his dream. Descriptions of the play-by-play are excellent and are interspersed with heart-wrenching moments of failure and disappointment. Rigby occasionally drops in the names of well-known soccer stars to keep the saga current. Teenage Enrique has his own problems with fitting in and with keeping the bullying he endures hidden from his family. Readers can identify and sympathize with his dilemma and the difficult decisions he must make. Purchase this book where the film or the first two books have been popular.'Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

RORBY, Ginny. The Outside of a Horse. 343p. CIP. Dial. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8037-3478-4. LC 2009025101.
Gr 6-9-Hannah, 13, has always loved watching horse races on television with her father, but when she begins to help out at a local riding stable, she discovers how much more she enjoys working with real animals, especially those who have suffered abuse. She particularly loves a filly named Rega, the offspring of a Premarin mare (a pregnant horse from which urine is collected to make pharmaceuticals). When her dad returns from Iraq as an amputee suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, Hannah's work at the stable not only helps her cope with the problems at home, but also leads her to equine-assisted psychotherapy and riding therapy for her troubled father. Things improve, but Hannah will need all her strength to make a difficult decision when Rega suffers a terrible injury. Like Rorby's Hurt Go Happy (Tor, 2006), this book is laden with so many issues'the problems of returning vets, various and horrifying types of abuse of horses, humane Parelli horse training methods'that they nearly overwhelm the story, and the horse/human amputee metaphor becomes heavy-handed. However, this novel really shines in showing how horses can help troubled humans heal their physical and emotional wounds. There's plenty of fodder here for spirited book discussions.'Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

SHAN, Darren. The Thin Executioner. 483p. Little, Brown. Aug. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-316-07865-8. LC number unavailable.
Gr 7 Up-Shan's latest fantasy marks something of a departure from his gory, demon-infested 'Demonata' and 'Cirque du Freak' series (both Little, Brown). Based loosely on The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, it takes readers on a hero's journey through a harsh world filled with ignorant, brutal people, competing pagan religions, and the occasional supernatural being. Like Huck, Jebel Rum undertakes a dangerous journey accompanied by a slave. And just like Finn, his long-held beliefs are challenged by his experience with the 'lesser' man. He and his slave, Tel Hasani, also suffer at the hands of con men posing as royalty. But this story is merely a pale shadow of Twain's classic. Jebel Rum sets out not to free his slave but to sacrifice him at the altar of one of his gods in exchange for invincibility. His goal is to compete for the right to replace his father as his city's executioner. Shan's characterizations and dialogue are weak at best, and Jebel's conversion is predictable and artless. The overriding message is heavy-handed and unsatisfying. Despite all of that, readers who cut their teeth on 'Cirque du Freak' and moved on to the 'Demonata' will most likely gobble up this lengthier, slightly more cerebral novel. There is just enough brutality to keep the pages turning.'Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School, CA

ST. JOHN, Lauren. The Elephant's Tale. Bk. 3. 221p. (Legend of the Animal Healer Series). CIP. Dial. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8037-3291-9. LC 2009009285.
Gr 5-7-This is the final book in a series that began with The White Giraffe (Dial, 2007), but it stands on its own. Martine, 11, has been living with her grandmother on a South African game reserve since the death of her parents. She loves the animals and land, and over the last year has discovered that she has the power to heal animals. But the peace and contentment of Sawubona is shattered when Reuben James, a former business partner of Martine's late grandfather, appears with a new will granting him ownership of the entire reserve. Martine, her grandmother, and all their employees must leave in two weeks. Martine is convinced that Mr. James somehow tricked her grandfather and vows to save Sawubona. She is encouraged in her effort by Grace, the local sangoma (healer), who divines her future and tells her that elephants will be a part of her quest. Along with her friend Ben, Martine sneaks into Mr. James's plane and when it lands they find themselves in Namibia. There they discover just what Reuben James has been up to'and that they were right to mistrust him. The children manage to expose him and in the process save a group of mistreated captive elephants. This is a fast-paced mystery with an underlying conservation theme. Tween readers will be absorbed by the adventure, the animals, and the African setting.'Terrie Dorio, Santa Monica Public Library, CA

STEVERMER, Caroline. Magic Below Stairs. 199p. CIP. Dial. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8037-3467-8. LC 2009025100.
Gr 4-7-When Frederick Lincoln, an orphan, is chosen to be trained as a footman in the house of Thomas Schofield, he brings nothing with him'or so it seems. The boy is actually accompanied by Billy Bly, a hardworking but mischievous brownie. Are Frederick's uncanny boot-polishing and cravat-tying skills due to his own eagerness to be useful, or to a budding magical talent helped along by Billy Bly' The wizard Schofield soon becomes aware of Billy's help and Frederick's natural gifts. However, he is not aware that the lingering remains of an old curse lurk in the walls of his ancestral home, threatening his own life and those of his wife and unborn child. Frederick and Billy must find a way to stop the curse before it is too late. This cozy tale of household magic, complete with a dash of adventure and a pinch of danger, will have children cheering for Frederick as he finds his way in his new home. Stevermer's readers will enjoy seeing characters from some of her earlier works make an appearance, and fans of Diana Wynne Jones and Patricia C. Wrede will appreciate this delightful Victorian fantasy.'Misti Tidman, Boyd County Public Library, Ashland, KY

STONE, Mary Hanlon. Invisible Girl. 288p. CIP. Philomel. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-399-25249-5. LC 2009027255.
Gr 7-10-Stephanie's abusive, alcoholic mother leaves their Boston home one night in a theatrical huff. Her weak-willed father cannot cope, so the 14-year-old is shunted across the country to a wealthy friend while the family figures out what to do. The friend's teen daughter is initially excited to include Stephanie in her clique, and Stephanie uses her Boston accent to make people laugh while spinning lies to keep them from knowing about her family's sordid past. However, after an overheard conversation, the queen bees turn on Stephanie. When a new girl appears and draws their fire, Stephanie is at first simply relieved to be out of the crosshairs but soon sees a different path and befriends the girl. Stone skillfully takes her protagonist from the bottom of a smelly closet where she is hiding from her mother's fists to a sunny, golden California beach club full of socially climbing girls concerned only with fashion, diets, boys, and possessions. It is as stark a change for readers as it is for Stephanie. She is in many ways younger than these teens, although she's had harder things to deal with, and her na'et'is heartbreaking. She learns from her trials, but there are no miracles. Stone portrays her growth believably, in small increments, with many slipups along the way.'Geri Diorio, The Ridgefield Library, CT

STURMAN, Jennifer. And Then I Found Out the Truth. 272p. Scholastic/Point. July 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-545-08724-7. LC number unavailable.
Gr 8-10-In And Then Everything Unraveled (Scholastic, 2009), Delia Truesdale's mother disappeared. The teen now knows that she is alive and well, but is stuck in Argentina. She won't be able to come back to the United States until they can find out who was after her. Delia's investigations are now leading her in a direction she doesn't want to go. She knows that her mother had been looking into a conspiracy involving several oil companies when she disappeared and now her own research has put her life in danger. While sharing the truth about her mother being alive with only a few friends, a private investigator, and a psychic, Delia must face the painful possibility behind her most promising lead, which seems to involve her boyfriend's father. Delia's dilemmas are explained with enough detail to make sense to those unfamiliar with the first book.'Betsy Fraser, Calgary Public Library, Alberta, Canada

STUTZ, Eli. Pickle Impossible. illus. by C. B. Canga. 208p. CIP. Bloomsbury. 2010. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-1-59990-464-1. LC 2009035313.
Gr 4-6-Aurore, 12, helps her pickle-farmer grandfather Zacharie Borsht kidnap young Pierre La Bouche, the grandson of his greatest rival, but then she helps the boy escape and together they make their way from France to Bern, Switzerland, where an international pickle contest is being held. The grand prize is $100,000 which should be enough to save the La Bouche farm'unless the Borshts can either steal Pierre's pickles or prevent him from entering the contest. Narrated by vivacious and conceited Aurore, the story has a lively tone but the language is oddly stilted. The plot speeds along until it gets hung up in a twist involving a plant that bestows eternal youth, a particle accelerator that causes premature aging, and Pierre's long-lost grandmother. There are many other strange occurrences and coincidences that aren't explained or strain credulity, distracting from the plot and making this a light yet unsatisfying and confusing adventure.'Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

TOMLINSON, Heather. Toads and Diamonds. 278p. CIP. Holt. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-8968-4. LC 2009023448.
Gr 7 Up-This is an impressive reimagining of Perrault's classic tale, set in precolonial India. Stepsisters Diribani and Tana are on the edge of poverty when they are blessed and cursed by the goddess Naghali-ji. Diribani, the beautiful and polite one, speaks flowers and jewels every time a sound is uttered from her perfect lips, while Tana, often rude, speaks toads and snakes. Soon Diribani is taken in by a handsome prince who seeks to protect her from those who would use her gift for ill. Tana's fate is not so comfortable, as she is forced out of the village before she is caught by the authorities. Tomlinson creates a rich story with opulent visuals that make the teens' world come to life. Readers can feel the hard jewels in Diribani's mouth, and taste the dirt and dust as Tana flees. Best of all, Tomlinson creates a truly remarkable bond between the girls, obliterating the trite stepsister stereotype. The text may be challenging at times, but this extraordinary entry in the retellings genre is definitely worth its weight in diamonds. Fans of Shannon Hale and Robin McKinley will eat it up.'Lisa Marie Williams, East Gwillimbury Public Library, Holland Landing, Ontario

VAN EEKHOUT, Greg. Kid vs. Squid. 196p. CIP. Bloomsbury. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-59990-489-4. LC 2009036040.
Gr 4-6'Thatcher is reluctantly sent to spend the summer between sixth and seventh grades helping his great-uncle Griswald run his Museum of the Strange and Curious on the boardwalk of the fictional coastal tourist town of Las Huesas, CA. When a girl, Shoal, breaks into the museum and steals a witch's head, Thatcher pursues her. He soon finds himself in a world of maritime monsters that might'just might'be plotting to destroy civilization. He allies himself with Trudy, a girl with the tools and the talents of a detective, and eventually with Shoal, to save the world. (The Squid doesn't appear until the end, but it's worth the wait.) Van Eekhout carefully balances his tongue in his cheek with some really creepy situations, and the result is a humorous fantasy that will rush over young readers like a tidal wave.'Walter Minkel, Austin Public Library, TX

WILES, Deborah. Countdown. Bk. 1. 377p. (The Sixties Trilogy). photos. reprods. bibliog. Web sites. Scholastic. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-545-10605-4. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-8-Franny lives with her family in suburban Maryland just outside Andrews Air Force Base, circa summer of 1962. Kennedy and Khrushchev's duel on the world stage plays in the background while the fifth grader worries about her best friend's betrayal; adores her college-age sister, Jo Ellen; and fights with her saintly little brother, Drew. When not navigating the ups and downs of early adolescence, she writes letters to Khrushchev, prepares for air-raid drills, and investigates her sister's coded letters from 'Ebenezer.' At its core, Countdown is a straightforward, no-surprises tale of historical fiction that at times reads like a memoir. Its unique format, however, is anything but run of the mill. Planned as the first in a trilogy, the book has been dubbed a 'documentary novel.' In a successful effort to give readers a sense of the country's total preoccupation with all things nuclear and Communist during the height of the Cold War, Franny's narrative is punctuated by newspaper clippings, advertisements for bomb-shelter materials, news broadcasts, brief vignettes about famous figures, ephemera, and more. The overall result is somewhat frenetic but certainly effective; readers are not only immersed in the era, but also experience a feeling of bombardment similar to that felt by Franny. While the narrative may not have stood solidly on its own, the documentary format and personalization of the major events of the decade will draw and dazzle readers.'Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

WOODS, Brenda. A Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 164p. CIP. Putnam. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-399-24683-8. LC 2009008750.
Gr 7-10-Ms. Hart, a tenth-grade English teacher and recent transplant from New York City to Los Angeles, assigns her class of nine students a writing assignment, to be completed in two weeks: 'If you could get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for anything that you're good at, for anything good that you've done or plan to do, what would it be for'' Then in brief, alternating chapters, each character's story unfolds. Marlon is a basketball star who has something to prove to his older brother. Shante is falling for a white boy and facing pressure from family and friends. Gus is small in stature and shy until he gets to know MJ, whose extra weight has been hiding her bright mind. Dorian, the class clown, doesn't want the life his Pops modeled for him. The themes will seem familiar to most teens, but the voices are somewhat uneven with some passages naive or clich' and others filled with invective and searing emotion. The book ends with the students' essays and leaves an impression of hopefulness that is perhaps unrealistic. Short chapters and the high school setting may make this an attractive choice for reluctant readers, but the characters and story lines are unlikely to be remembered for long.'Karen Elliott, Grafton High School, WI

ZAFÓN, Carlos Ruiz. The Prince of Mist. tr. from Spanish by Lucia Graves. 208p. Little, Brown. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-316-04477-6. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-8-In 1943, Max, 13, and his older sister Alicia are befriended by Roland, the grandson of a reclusive lighthouse keeper, when their family moves to a house on the coast to avoid the war. Max discovers a strange garden of sinister statues and a series of home movies showing that the statues change positions and expressions. Then, when his younger sister is hospitalized after an encounter with a strange presence that precipitates a fall down the stairs, he becomes aware that something sinister is afoot. The mystery deepens as Roland takes Alicia and Max diving to the ruins of an old shipwreck and the story of the ship and its mysterious passengers is revealed by the lighthouse keeper. Max begins to realize that something from beyond the grave is active in their midst and that it has an agenda that nothing on Earth can stop. In the end, someone will have to pay the price for a bargain made with the 'evil one' long ago. The Prince of Mist hooks readers from page one. It is a combination of mystery, suspense, and supernatural thriller. The author keeps readers guessing all the way till the end in a story that's fresh, frightening, and beautifully translated. Awesome.'Debra Banna, Sharon Public Library, MA

Nonfiction

BARBOUR, Scott. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. 104p. ISBN 978-1-60152-101-9. LC 2009033216. MARCOVITZ, Hal. Asthma. 96p. ISBN 978-1-60152-104-0. LC 2009036844.
ea vol: (Compact Research Series). charts. diags. photos. chron. further reading. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. ReferencePoint. 2010. PLB $25.95.
Gr 6-9-These books spoon-feed students information for reports. Each title begins with an overview of the topic, followed by chapters that define the condition, explain its causes, and discuss possible treatments. In Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, the final chapter discusses how society should help soldiers with the problem while the last chapter of Asthma is about how to live with the condition. Chapters present material in accessible language, provide report-ready, primary-source quotes from experts, and end with a 'Facts and Illustrations' section in which information is summarized in bullet points and accompanied by colorful graphs and charts that will appeal to visual learners. There are few photographs, but the titles are visually interesting due to their bold graphic layout. Back matter includes an annotated list of key people and advocacy groups and a list of organizations to contact. The further-reading lists and the source notes for each chapter are extensive. Since asthma affects about 22 million Americans and post-traumatic stress disorder affects approximately 14 percent of the veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, these up-to-date titles will be useful.'Ragan O'Malley, Saint Ann's School, Brooklyn, NY

BRANCATO, Robin F. Food Choices: The Ultimate Teen Guide. 227p. (It Happened to Me Series). photos. index. notes. CIP. Scarecrow. 2010. Tr $40. ISBN 978-0-8108-6109-1. LC 2009042241.
Gr 7-10-In a conversational tone, Brancato talks about what, how, why, where, and when teens eat. Chapter headings include: 'What Kind of Eater Are You',' 'What Does Your Body Need',' 'The Great Weight Debate,' 'How Safe Is the Food You Eat',' 'school Food,' 'Eating Out,' 'Eating around the World,' and 'The Future of Food.' Although the breadth of the topics is wide, the information is superficial, and sometimes opinion is stated as fact. Throughout the text, vignettes and photos give young people's views on food-related issues. These sidebars and pictures break up the text and add immediacy to the presentation but offer little in the way of solid information. Topics that might constitute a volume of their own, such as genetically modified food, are discussed in a paragraph and conclude with sentences like, 'Because the idea of fooling around with genes makes a lot of people nervous, developments in this area will probably be gradual.' Copious bibliographic notes accompany each chapter.'Joanne K. Cecere, Monroe-Woodbury High School, Central Valley, NY

CINDRICH, Sharon. A Smart Girl's Guide to Style: How to Have Fun with Fashion, Shop Smart, and Let Your Personal Style Shine Through. illus. by Shannon Laskey. 119p. ISBN 978-1-59369-648-1.
LUNDSTEN, Apryl. A Smart Girl's Guide to Parties: How to Be a Great Guest, Be a Happy Hostess, and Have Fun at Any Party. illus. by Angela Martini. 96p. ISBN 978-1-59369-645-0.
ea vol: American Girl. 2010. pap. $9.95. LC number unavailable.
Gr 4-7-These books read like long magazine articles. The tone is light and accessible, and quizzes, images, and question-and-answer segments break up lists of tips and ideas. Both titles mix practical advice with fictionalized scenarios. Style is aimed at kids who shop for a new wardrobe each school year. It offers such advice as 'Don't try to get everything all at once. That's exhausting.' Much of the content is filled with information women are expected to know but are rarely given. It includes definitions and examples of necklines, fabrics, and cuts of clothing, and describes appropriate attire for various events. The title also offers advice on, for example, how to respond to peers who make fun of fashion choices and how to approach parents who disapprove of them. Parties is also filled with helpful information (readers will learn that 'RSVP' means 'please reply,' for example) and behavior rules (be outgoing at parties, but never a loudmouth). It includes sections on hosting and attending a variety of parties and offers realistic advice for common scenarios like homesickness at a slumber party and how to make conversations with adults who say things like, 'My how you've grown.' The girls in both books' colorful cartoon images are thin and pretty, but represent different races. These titles offer practical information in an inviting way, and include tips that readers seldom get from other sources.'Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

COWAN, Mary Morton. Captain Mac: The Life of Donald Baxter MacMillan, Arctic Explorer. 208p. maps. photos. reprods. bibliog. chron. further reading. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Boyds Mills/Calkins Creek. 2010. RTE $17.95. ISBN 978-1-59078-709-0. LC 2009036113.
Gr 5-9-This biography, written with obvious respect and admiration, covers the life and achievements of the Arctic explorer. MacMillan grew up reading about Arctic adventures and longed for the seafaring life, even after his father was lost at sea in 1883. After graduating from Bowdoin College with a degree in geology, he joined Robert Peary's 1908 expedition to the North Pole. This was followed by other scientific explorations into the Arctic's vast unknown regions, some by airplane, where Captain Mac filmed and photographed wildlife and icebergs that he would later incorporate into his popular lecture tours. Chapters open with a black-and-white photo that acts as a backdrop for Mac's next adventure. Archival photos with explanatory captions appear on nearly every page. The author skillfully weaves primary-source quotes with short, action-oriented sentences (e.g., 'Mac was lucky to escape alive!'). The grimmer aspects of Arctic life (drownings, amputations, and eating the weakest dogs) are mentioned but not addressed in detail. This engaging biography is also a solid overview of an era of exploration that still captivates adventurous youths. It will find an audience among readers who enjoyed Katherine Kirkpatrick's The Snow Baby (Holiday House) or adventure novels such as Roland Smith's Peak (Harcourt, both 2007).'Amy Pickett, Ridley High School, Folsom, PA

CRAWFORD, Steve. Cold War. ISBN 978-1-933834-52-8. LC 2009013350.
'' . War on Terror. ISBN 978-1-933834-53-5. LC 2009013423.
ea vol: 64p. (Facts at Your Fingertips: Modern Military History Series). charts. maps. photos. reprods. further reading. index. Web sites. Brown Bear Bks. 2010. PLB $35.65.
Gr 7-10-Cold War's chronological format lends a narrative feel that will appeal to history buffs. The text is divided into sections by decade, from '1945-1949' to '1980-1989.' Each section has a page-long introduction and a dozen or more half- to full-page entries on the major episodes of the era from the Potsdam Conference to the fall of the Berlin Wall. The sidebars' small font hinders readability, and the maps are small and not very detailed. Overall, this is a good quick reference source that will aid in reports. War on Terror looks more like a narrative text than a quick reference source. It is arranged into geographic sections, each with 6 to 9 entries on Afghanistan, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, India and Pakistan, and Iraq and 12 entries for the United States. As with other volumes in this series, there are numerous photographs and about a dozen maps. The maps here are larger than those in Cold War, but there aren't any in the section on Southeast Asia. By trying to cover the entire global war in such a brief space, this volume falls short of the mark. Although general readers may find plenty of interesting information, researchers would be better served by Tom Lansford's The War in Iraq (Gale, 2009), which covers specific areas of the war.'Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM

DESETTA, Al, ed. Out with It: Gay and Straight Teens Write About Homosexuality. 2nd ed. 153p. illus. photos. Youth Communication. 2009. pap. $16.95. ISBN 978-1-933939-72-8. LC number unavailable.
Gr 9 Up'some of the authors in this valuable compilation of personal stories identify as gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender/questioning (GLBTQ), while others have GLBTQ friends or family members. The selections are both powerful and poignant; many evoke deep emotional responses. The book's universal message is that at the core, everyone desires the same things: to be accepted and to be loved. However, not one essay describes a completely positive coming-out experience with parents, making the book unrepresentative of some teens' experiences. The writing styles vary, and some essays are stronger and clearer than others. Average-quality black-and-white drawings add little. The index lists the starting page of the essay in which a topic can be found. Desetta also provides information on the sponsoring organization, Youth Communication, and on foster care, which is a feature of life for many of the teen writers. Noticeably absent is a list of GLBTQ resources, such as websites, books, and hotlines. Overall, though, this title will be a useful addition.'sarah K. Allen, Elko Middle School, Sandston, VA

DONOVAN, Sandy. Does an Apple a Day Keep the Doctor Away': And Other Questions About Your Health and Body. notes. ISBN 978-0-8225-9084-2. LC 2009010223.
'''' . Does It Really Take Seven Years to Digest Swallowed Gum': And Other Questions You've Always Wanted to Ask. notes. ISBN 978-0-8225-9085-9. LC 2009010642.
SILVERMAN, Buffy. Can an Old Dog Learn New Tricks': And Other Questions About Animals. ISBN 978-0-8225-9083-5. LC 2009020587.
ea vol: illus. by Colin W. Thompson. 40p. (Is That a Fact' Series). photos. bibliog. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Lerner. 2010. PLB $26.60.
Gr 4-6-These books feature popular sayings and beliefs. One spread discusses each entry and a conclusion is reached'the saying is true, untrue, or nobody knows. Apple examines assertions that chicken soup cures the common cold and that going outside with wet hair causes illness. Bromides discussed in Gum include whether a penny on the track can derail a train, and whether a chemical in swimming pools can detect urine. Dog focuses on beliefs pertaining to animals, such as the idea that camels store water in their humps and cats always land on their feet. Donovan's writings are humorous and straightforward, and the books' photos and drawings add to the humorous tone. These titles are similar to the books in Heinemann's 'Body Matters' series and will be definite crowd pleasers, especially among reference buffs (the students who would check out the encyclopedias if they could).'Katie Cerasale-Messina, AC Whelan Elementary School, Revere, MA

FRIEDMAN, Lauri S., ed. Organic Food and Farming. 138p. (Introducing Issues with Opposing Viewpoints Series). charts. photos. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Gale/Greenhaven. 2010. Tr $34.70. ISBN 978-0-7377-4483-5. LC 2009036912.
Gr 6-9-This title first examines the difference between organic and conventional food in terms of human health. The articles have been successfully edited for brevity and clarity. Whether organic farming can improve the world is discussed in the second, and weakest, section of the book. One author argues that organic is not environmentally friendly due to overuse of natural pesticides, while the balancing viewpoint is so general that readers will never know about genuine environmental and pollution issues resulting from conventional agriculture. The articles debating the role of organic agriculture in feeding the world barely scratch the surface of global food issues, although the one on why organic cannot end world hunger is the stronger of the two. The bulk of the final section discusses the future of organic food and looks at the debate within the organic community on the direction of sustainable agriculture and the label organic. The excerpt from a Michael Pollan essay on why Wal-Mart's decision to sell organic products will ultimately undermine the meaning of organic through the dilution of standards and the creation of 'industrial organic' is the strongest in the book. With its colorful graphs and photographs nicely breaking up the text, this serviceable book will provide a starting point for assignments.'Caroline Tesauro, Radford Public Library, VA

GARDNER, Robert. Who Can Solve the Crime': Science Projects Using Detective Skills. ISBN 978-0-7660-3247-7. LC 2008050062.
'''' . Who Forged This Document': Crime-Solving Science Projects. ISBN 978-0-7660-3246-0. LC 2008050063.
ea vol: 48p. (Who Dunnit' Forensic Science Experiments Series). illus. photos. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Enslow Elementary. 2010. PLB $23.93.
Gr 3-6-CSI fans will enjoy these books' explanations, activities, and project suggestions that break down basic investigative techniques such as keen observation and code breaking (Who Can Solve the Crime') and handwriting analysis and chromatography (Who Forged This Document'). A section on the scientific method and safety briefly introduces each book. Readers will learn about Sherlock Holmes and foolish robbers, and view hair under a microscope. The few color illustrations are instructional. Content is framed with boldly colored borders featuring designs such as subtle script. Who Can Solve the Crime' includes a chilling account of a murder that might not be appropriate for some of the younger readers in the grade range.'s. McClendon, Friends School of Atlanta, Decatur, GA

GEORGE-WARREN, Holly. The Cowgirl Way: Hats off to America's Women of the West. 128p. photos. reprods. bibliog. index. Houghton Harcourt. July 2010. Tr $18. ISBN 978-0-618-73738-3. LC number unavailable.
Gr 3-6-With ample dynamic photos and lively quotes throughout, George-Warren presents a thoroughly absorbing overview of the history of cowgirls up to the present. She explains that since women did much of the ranch work in the past out of necessity, they helped to break down social and economic inequalities, and Western states often led the way in passing laws such as the right of women to vote and to own land. Famous figures such as Belle Starr, Calamity Jane, and Annie Oakley are discussed in brief, but the real delights here are the anecdotes on lesser-known figures such as Lucille Mulhall, the first woman to be dubbed a 'cowgirl' in print. By age 11, she could rope animals including steers, jackrabbits, and wolves. The introduction of women as rodeo and trick riders and their contributions to the sports in the 1920s and '30s are covered in fascinating detail, as are the film and singing sensations of the 1940s and '50s such as Barbara Stanwyck and Dale Evans. The book also provides an overview of fashion and a look at today's cowgirls. Similar in scope to Candace Savage's Born to Be a Cowgirl (Tricycle, 2001) but providing more information on women from the past 50 years, this is a fine addition.'Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

GIFFORD, Clive. The Kingfisher Soccer Encyclopedia. 144p. photos. reprods. glossary. Web sites. Kingfisher. 2010. Tr $19.99. ISBN 978-0-7534-6397-0. LC number unavailable.
Gr 6 Up-Gifford updates his 2006 encyclopedia. The changes are minimal beyond updating the stats. Chapters and page numbers are almost identical to the previous version. There is a slight change in the colorful, action photographs, some to-be-expected website adjustments, and new statistics added to charts such as 'The Longest Unbeaten League Runs.' For the most part, the same superstars are highlighted with the identical biographical paragraphs from the previous edition. The author added only one sentence to update David Beckham's profile to include him joining the LA Galaxy in 2007. Compared to the 'World Soccer Books' series (Rosen), this guide more clearly delineates the teams that play in various competitions such as the World Cup, the European Championships, the Olympics, and Regional Competitions, such as the Asian Cup, Soccer Leagues, and Club Cups. In a year with strong competition in soccer books, this single volume still stands out. But refresh a worn, older copy knowing that there were few revisions made to the earlier edition.'Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

HABEEB, William Mark. Iran. 128p. ISBN 978-1-4222-1401-5. LC 2008041222.
HARMON, Daniel E. Turkey. 119p. ISBN 978-1-4222-1399-5. LC 2008041234.
SNYDER, Gail. Sudan. 112p. ISBN 978-1-4222-1394-0. LC 2008042521.
THOMPSON, Bill & Dorcas Thompson. Iraq. 136p. ISBN 978-1-4222-1384-1. LC 2008041212.
ea vol: rev. ed. (Major Muslim Nations Series). maps. photos. reprods. chron. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Mason Crest. 2010. Tr $25.95.
Gr 4-8-These books cover a wide range of topics, including the land, history, politics, economy, religion, peoples, and foreign relations. They are written by editorial consultants from The Foreign Policy Research Institute (USA), which looks at the world through a statist perspective, meaning that the accounts exhibit that bias. For example, in Iran, nowhere is it mentioned that the Ayatollah Khomeini was assisted by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency during his years in France or that later the U.S. Air Force helped him in his air war with Iraq. However, Sudan informs readers about the ethnic cleansing linked to a private Canadian oil company operating in the area. The books also have small mistakes. For example, Muhammad is referred to as a founder, whereas the Qur'an states that he was the last in a long line of messengers of Islam. In Iraq the shahada reads, 'There is no God but Allah,' when it should read, 'There is no god but God.' The texts contain colorful photos, illustrations, and maps. Despite the problems, the inclusion of a wide range of material makes these titles somewhat useful resources for reports.'Fawzia Gilani-Williams, An-Noor School, Windsor, Ontario

HILGENKAMP,Kathryn, Judith Harper, & Elizabeth Boskey. The Truth About Rape. 2nd ed. 191p. charts. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Facts On File. 2010. Tr $35. ISBN 978-0-8160-7642-0. LC 2009018452.
Gr 9 Up'Updated statistics, new tables and illustrations, and entries on 'Rape Kits' and 'Evidence Collection' update this second edition. The introduction includes a section on how to use the book as well as a brief discussion of 'society and the Victims of Rape.' The entries, which are generally a few pages in length, are clear and concise. They answer basic questions that students will have through definitions, statistics, an examination of common myths associated with the subject, and a Q & A. 'Fact or Fiction'' sections clarify some misconceptions ('It is okay for my teacher to flirt with me' and 'Unless a weapon is used it isn't really rape'), while 'Teens Speak' relates personal experiences or responses to information. Further-reading suggestions conclude most entries. New as separate entries are 'Rape and Society' and 'statutory Rape,' which were covered in less detail in the earlier edition. The statistics are sourced: most date post-2000 with many from 2006 and later. One interesting example is the chart illustrating unreported rapes'that number has changed significantly since the 2005 edition. The additional resources section listing hotlines and 'help sites' is largely untouched. If you already own the first edition and can find the statistics online (most of them come from government sources), you may want to wait for another title. If you need a serviceable volume on this subject, this one may fit the bill.'Robin Henry, Wakeland High School, Frisco, TX

HUBBARD, Ben. Top 10 Biggest. ISBN 978-0-7787-7487-7; ISBN 978-0-7787-7508-9. LC 2009044257. OWEN, Ruth. Top 10 Fastest. ISBN 978-0-7787-7488-4; ISBN 978-0-7787-7509-6. LC 2009044258.
'''' . Top 10 Tallest. ISBN 978-0-7787-7492-1; ISBN 978-0-7787-7513-3. LC 2009044261.
ea vol: 32p. (Crabtree Contact Series). photos. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Crabtree. 2010. PLB $26.60; pap. $8.95.
Gr 3-6-students who love the 'Guinness Book of World Records' or the 'Ripley's Believe It or Not!' series will enjoy browsing these volumes. Their vivid pictures and concisely presented, interesting facts will also grab the attention of reluctant readers. Students will be grossed out by images of the biggest annual food fight and wowed by the tallest snowwoman ever and by the growth rate of bamboo. The books have a fine balance of natural versus man-made records. While students will be equally satisfied with the 'Guinness' and 'Ripley' titles, libraries looking for a bit more variety in this area will be pleased with these choices.'Esther Keller, I.S. 278, Marine Park, NY

JENKINS, Steve. Bones: Skeletons and How They Work. illus. by author. unpaged. Scholastic. Aug. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-545-04651-0. LC number unavailable.
Gr 3-6-From the life-sized human skull grinning out from the brick-red cover to a complete skeleton waving goodbye from a gatefold late in the book, bones are given an entertaining and fresh treatment. Beginning with the opening spread of life-sized animal bones, human bones are quantified and qualified. Hands, feet, femurs, ribs, spine, and skull are shown and compared to other species. Symmetry and joints as well as adaptations for survival are introduced. Humor abounds in the illustrations as well as in subheadings such as, 'That's a Handful,' 'Big Foot,' and 'Head Case.' Readers will be lured in by interactive touches like 'What bone is this'' and the 'some Assembly Required' spread with all 206 adult human bones unlabeled and grouped by body area. Displayed against a navy-blue background, the spread opens to the burnt sienna gatefold mentioned above. Two additional gatefolds include a small python (200 ribs) and a collection of skulls. Jenkins's characteristic cut-paper collages in mottled creams and grays are perfectly suited to the topic and contrasted against solid jewel-tone, full-bleed backgrounds. The precise and scaled representations (many life size) are clearly labeled. Text, other than an opening page, is limited and supports the highly visual and sophisticated treatment. A 'More About Bones' spread completes the book with a hodgepodge of fascinating facts. With applications that range from anatomy to evolution and mathematics, this book will find a place in every collection.'Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI

KALLEN, Stuart A. Crop Circles. ISBN 978-1-60152-103-0. LC 2009034368.
'''' . Werewolves. ISBN 978-1-60152-097-5. LC 2009027097.
ea vol: 104p. (The Mysterious & Unknown Series). photos. reprods. further reading. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. ReferencePoint. 2010. PLB $25.95.
Gr 7-9-These volumes examine paranormal phenomena throughout history using anecdotal evidence, scientific testing, and theories from leading experts. The books are extensively footnoted and boast a wealth of further resources and detailed indexes. However, the texts are often dry and difficult to read, given the sensational topics. The 'Did You Know'' boxes sprinkled liberally throughout highlight interesting facts, but they are taken verbatim from the main texts. Crop Circles is weakened by the paucity of pictures'with so visual a subject, one would expect many more images. Of those included, few are actually of crop circles, and they rarely coincide with the text. Heavy scientific jargon further muddles the concepts. Werewolves is a marginally better read, with its gleefully macabre (especially the chapter about stopping werewolf attacks) and less-visual content. Overall, the volumes sag under the weight of too much material, rendering them as dense as academic journal articles and fairly useless to middle schoolers looking for a thrilling read.'Rebecca Dash, New York Public Library

KELLY, Kate. Medicine Becomes a Science: 1840-1999. 168p. (The History of Medicine Series). charts. diags. illus. maps. photos. reprods. chron. further reading. glossary. index. CIP. Facts On File. 2010. Tr $40. ISBN 978-0-8160-7209-5. LC 2009011598.
Gr 7 Up-This series entry tells the story of some of the most fantastic advances in the field. It covers the time period when medicine moved from guesswork to being a real, measurable science. Because of the sheer amount of material to discuss, the author details the history episodically by profiling specific people and their contributions, certain advances and how they were made, who contributed to them, etc. The text is highly engaging and readable. Students interested in a career in medicine or in history will enjoy this book. Highlights include Louis Pasteur; early women pioneers, such as Elizabeth Blackwell; improvements in diagnostic tools and medications; and specific chapters about polio and advances made in medicine during wartime. A solid and versatile resource.'Robin Henry, Wakeland High School, Frisco, TX

KING, Bart. The Big Book of Gross Stuff. illus. by Russell Miller. 288p. bibliog. Web sites. CIP. Gibbs Smith. 2010. Tr $19.99. ISBN 978-1-4236-0746-5. LC 2009035220.
Gr 6-10-This book is not for casual readers. Its pages are packed solid with disgusting information on an array of topics ranging from the predictable (vomiting, farting, burping, pooping) to the less obvious (corpses, shrunken heads, childbirth, and 'Rocky Mountain oysters'). The author includes many historical anecdotes and interesting bits of gross trivia (did you know that the Apollo 11 astronauts left their 'defecation collection devices' on the moon'). There's an extensive bibliography, which is rare in this type of book. The irreverent writing style is frequently laugh-out-loud funny and full of puns. Kids will love the euphemisms for various bodily functions and the sidebars (one has a recipe for making fake snot). Mercifully, the illustrations are few and are restricted to black-and-white pen-and-ink sketches. Nonetheless, this book is not for the faint of heart. Some adults may feel it is in poor taste, but there are certainly middle school kids (let's face it'boys) who will eat it up.'Marcia Kochel, Olson Middle School, Bloomington, MN

LATNO, Mark. The Paper Boomerang Book: Build Them, Throw Them, and Get Them to Return Every Time. 128p. diags. photos. appendix. glossary. Web sites. Chicago Review. 2010. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-1-56976-282-0. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-8-In a unique, if somewhat padded, guide Latno draws on nearly 20 years of teaching experience to explain how to make, fine-tune, and decorate a type of paper boomerang that can be constructed with commonly available materials and thrown with (relative) safety indoors. The instructions and simply drawn diagrams are embedded in a history of boomerangs and throwing sticks, a challenging technical discussion of the physics of boomerangs and gyroscopes, and very detailed descriptions of the characteristics of railroad board (Latno's preferred paper) and alternatives, plus art-and-craft materials that can be used to dress up finished models. Noting that boomerangs are very sensitive to small changes in their edges and weight distribution, the author repeatedly encourages young enthusiasts to experiment with their projects. He also provides directions for standard and trick throws, and closes with lists of relevant organizations. Similar instructional titles on boomerangs for young fliers are rare in this country, and this is by far the most comprehensive volume available.'John Peters, New York Public Library

LAWLESS, Robert E. The Student's Guide to Financial Literacy. 220p. charts. photos. appendix. bibliog. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Greenwood. 2010. Tr $85. ISBN 978-0-313-37718-1. LC 2009050449.
Gr 9 Up-This title covers everything young adults just starting out in the world should be thinking about with respect to their future financial decisions. It begins with the fact that getting a college degree will mean more lifetime earnings, and from there springs into what exactly one should be doing with those earnings. Beginning with savings, then investments, Lawless breaks the material down into small, digestible sections. Some of the types of investments, such as financial derivatives and private equity funds, along with the section on 'Principals [sic] of Investing,' are sophisticated and more 'College Finance 101' than high school level stuff. Lawless is balanced in his presentation, acknowledging that though he calls credit-card debt 'Bad Debt,' it also has its uses, and though not everyone will have the $250,000 minimum investment for a hedge fund, it's worth understanding how they work. The chapters on 'Tax Considerations' and 'Insurance' are must-reads. Excellent charts and graphs support the text, and 'Guess What'' and 'Beware!' boxes offer fascinating related facts and cautions against such things as risky mortgage loans. Though this volume is entitled 'The Student's Guide,' it is most helpful today just for understanding news headlines.'Meredith Toumayan, The Governor's Academy, Byfield, MA

PALLATTO, Chris & Ron DeFazio. The Summer Camp Survival Guide: Cool Games, Camp Classics, and How to Capture the Flag. illus. by Ethan Long. 135p. index. CIP. Sterling. July 2010. spiral $12.95. ISBN 978-1-4027-4912-4. LC 2008008865.
Gr 4-6-Attending camp for the first time can be a little frightening. This book is packed with useful and practical information to help first-timers and their parents feel more at ease. The authors begin with a parents' section that focuses on choosing a safe and appropriate camp. The rest of the book is targeted at children who may be nervous about the experience. Pallatto and DeFazio discuss a wide range of topics including kinds of camps, what to pack, living quarters, camp staff, dealing with homesickness, and safety. There are also creative ideas for skits, games, crafts, and songs. The writing is informal and encouraging. The book is illustrated with green and orange borders, informal fonts, and line drawings that match the upbeat tone of the text. Unfortunately, it is spiral bound, has tear-out postcards and blank pages for notes and autographs, limiting its use in libraries. Cherie Winner's Kids Gone Campin' (Creative Publishers International, 2006) has good information about camping skills in general, but has nothing about games, songs, or crafts. The old standard, Jane Drake and Ann Love's The Kids Campfire Book (Kids Can, 1998), is full of great ideas for campfire games and activities. Unfortunately, neither of these alternatives deals specifically with summer camps.'Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

PAWLAK, Mark, Dick Lourie, & Robert Hershon, eds. When We Were Countries: Poems and Stories by Outstanding High School Writers. 280p. CIP. Hanging Loose. July 2010. Tr $29. ISBN 978-1-934909-06-5; pap. $19. ISBN 978-1-934909-05-8. LC number unavailable.
Gr 9 Up-This is the fourth collection of high school writing published by Hanging Loose, a literary magazine long known for showcasing teens alongside adult writers. This diverse anthology consists of both poetry and prose, masterfully written by 73 young adults. From Jessica Berenblum's 'While Jake Sleeps,' an expressive sketch of one intimate scene, to P. Alexandria Jones's metaphoric 'Unrequited Fajita,' the works are of the highest caliber. An introduction by poet X. J. Kennedy and afterwords by three poets/teachers and an accomplished former Hanging Loose teen poet bookend the collection. They all speak about teens, but mostly about the process of teaching creative writing to young adults. This choice of audience, coupled with the book's self-published look, makes the collection ripe for the picking by educators, but less appealing to teens themselves. For a collection of young writing with more shelf appeal, but equal quality, try Naomi Shihab Nye's Time You Let Me In: 25 Poets Under 25 (HarperCollins, 2010). Otherwise, share When We Were Countries with the next teacher who wants a model of excellent teen writing for the classroom.'Jill Heritage Maza, Greenwich High School, CT

PETRILLO, Lisa. Sarah Palin. 112p. (Political Profiles Series). photos. bibliog. chron. index. notes. Web sites. Morgan Reynolds. 2010. PLB $28.95. ISBN 978-1-59935-133-9. LC 2009040834.
Gr 6-9-Though filled with unbiased information, this title is marred by awkward transitions, clumsy phrasing, and occasional grammatical errors. Also, some of the color photographs have little or no relevance to the surrounding text or to the overall narrative, such as a picture of cars at a Wasilla stoplight. The text appears to have been hurriedly patched together from various sources. Unless there is an urgent need for information on Palin, librarians would be advised to wait until better books are available.'Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School, CA

READ, Nicholas & Ian McAllister. The Salmon Bears: Giants of the Great Bear Rainforest. photos by Ian McAllister. 90p. maps. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Orca. 2010. Tr $18.95. ISBN 978-1-55469-205-7. LC 2009942216.
Gr 5-8-Read's conversational text and McAllister's excellent photos provide a perfect framework for this evocative look at the big bears of the Great Bear Rainforest of British Columbia, and an intriguing investigation of its ecological pattern of dependency. The authors present a round of seasons from one winter to the next, touching upon such topics as the effects of fish farms on wild salmon populations, what happens during a salmon run, and what the future may hold for the fish, the bears, and the Great Bear Rainforest itself. Extensive bear data on size, diet, range, habitat, and family life (sows and cubs) is sure to please most researchers. Sections on 'spirit Bears' (a genetically different group of 'white' black bears), and the descriptions of the complex web of life created by an old, established specialized habitat round out the presentation. Information boxes consist of one question and an answer ('Is the Spirit Bear related to the polar bear'). Superbly readable, informative, and attractive, this book provides a clear picture of a pristine environment and its major inhabitants, both of which are under pressure from human encroachment.'Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

SENNING, Cindy Post & Peggy Post. Prom and Party Etiquette. illus. by Steven Salerno. 134p. index. CIP. HarperCollins/Collins. 2010. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-06-111713-8. LC 2009002795.
Gr 7 Up-Covering parties and special occasions like prom, homecoming, quincea'ra, and graduation, the authors have developed a modern set of rules for navigating today's more relaxed social customs with finesse and confidence. Myriad issues are tackled, from how to rent a tuxedo and who pays for what on prom night to table settings and crafting the perfect thank-you note, with important points highlighted. The comprehensive guide gives proper respect to religious occasions and thoughtfully explains how to determine from an invitation whether bringing a date is acceptable or not. Witty line drawings complement the text. The book does waiver into more than a manners book in its advice on carefully weighing whether to have post-prom sex, but overall it gives good information on how to comport oneself in various situations.'Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta

SONNEBORN, Liz. The End of Apartheid in South Africa. 120p. (Milestones in Modern World History Series). photos. reprods. bibliog. chron. further reading. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Chelsea House. 2010. Tr $35. ISBN 978-1-60413-409-4. LC 2008054805.
Gr 5-8-Despite its title, this book focuses predominantly on the history of apartheid from the beginning of the colonization of South Africa in 1652 through Jacob Zuma's presidency in 2009. The narrative is coherent and interesting, as it keeps a number of different threads going and explains in some detail the complex history of conflict in the country. Sonneborn describes how South Africa came to be engulfed in an uprising in the 1980s, that its political leaders were released in 1990, and how a future constitution was negotiated, leading up to the first free elections in 1994. She pinpoints the issues tackled by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, economic development, and AIDS as challenges faced by the post-apartheid government. There are a number of inaccuracies, many of them fairly minor. However, one is more serious, and it could lead to a misunderstanding of the nature of resistance against apartheid. Sonneborn claims that black trade unions were illegal during apartheid: in fact, they were legal, but 'not recognized.' This meant that employers did not have to negotiate with them. The fact that these organizations were able to operate openly helped to make them an important force in the anti-apartheid struggle. The black-and-white photographs are adequate in number and clear. Text boxes around topics of special interest are helpful, but the time line and chronology are not detailed enough to provide useful information. Buy only where there is demand for this topic.'sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

TUNNELL, Michael O. Candy Bomber: The Story of the Berlin Airlift's 'Chocolate Pilot.' 110p. photos. reprods. bibliog. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Charlesbridge. July 2010. RTE $18.95. ISBN 978-1-58089-336-7; pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-1-58089-337-4. LC 2009026648.
Gr 4-6-Tunnell brings to life a little-known post-World War II story. What started as a single pilot's car tour of bombed-out Berlin turned into an international campaign to help lighten the suffering of the children of West Berlin. The time was 1948, and the Soviet Union had closed all land access to the isolated Free World sectors of West Berlin in an attempt to starve the people into accepting Communist rule. On an impulse, a C-54 cargo pilot, Lt. Gail S. Halvorsen, shared the only two sticks of gum he had with a group of about 30 children. What started as a somewhat clandestine candy-dropping operation by Halvorsen and his buddies eventually became a USAF-sanctioned operation. As the airlift of food and fuel continued for almost two years, tons of candy were dropped (using tiny parachutes) for the children who waited in the flight path below. The text is liberally illustrated with black-and-white photos, copies of letters, and a diagram of how the flight patterns worked. Endpapers contain color reproductions of a few of the many pieces of children's artwork that Halvorsen received as the 'Chocolate Pilot,' 'Uncle Wiggly Wings,' and 'Dear Onkl of the Heaven.' Vocabulary is relatively easy, but adequate for the topic, which makes the text flow easily. The book concludes with extensive biographical, historical, and author's notes. This is a real treat'a World War II title with a happy ending. Make it a first purchase.'Eldon Younce, formerly at Harper Elementary School, KS

VILLING, Alexandra. The Ancient Greeks: Their Lives and Their World. 80p. maps. photos. reprods. chron. further reading. index. Getty. 2010. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-0-89236-985-0. LC 2009939813.
Gr 5-8-Following a map, a time line, and an introduction to the ancient Greeks, 14 chapters focus on a variety of roles, such as priest, soldier, entertainer, and farmer. Within the chapters, several paragraphs highlight different people who did the job, interspersed with text boxes and clear photos that show life through art and artifacts, adding greatly to the narrative. The structure allows for detailed information that provides a broad overview of the society. Primary-source quotes are credited throughout, but other information is not credited. Still, this is a solid, well-constructed introduction with enough information for reports and enough photographs and human-interest material for pleasure reading.'Clare A. Dombrowski, Amesbury Public Library, MA

WATANABE, Ken. No Problem!: An Easy Guide to Getting What You Want. adapt. by Sarah L. Thomson. illus. by Elwood H. Smith. 80p. charts. Viking. July 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-670-01203-9; pap. $9.99. ISBN 978-0-670-01254-1. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-8-Based on the author's Problem Solving 101 (Penguin, 2009) for adults, this little gem explains how to approach intimidating goals or jobs by breaking them down into simple tasks. Realistic scenarios such as finding money for a big purchase or choosing a high school are approached with data-driven evaluation tools. The author defines the steps involved along with terms such as 'hypotheses,' 'logic trees,' 'matrixes,' and 'evaluation charts.' Tables add to readers' understanding, and the pastel cartoon illustrations lend a touch of levity. While the book will have limited browsing appeal, it will serve well those students looking for some realistic problem-solving techniques.'s. McClendon, Friends School of Atlanta, Decatur, GA

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