All the Truth That’s in Me is set in the village of Roswell Station, in a very non-specific time and place. The only clues are in the descriptions of clothing worn, weapons used, foodstuff and other cultural mores. What was your intention in doing this?

From the beginning, Judith’s world felt like a colony to me, a fledgling settlement scrabbling for survival. It felt small, new, and very much alone in the world, separated from larger humanity by wilderness and ocean, clinging to that liminal place between the two. I knew I needed to create the world that Judith’s story required, rather than tether her story to an actual historical timeline. I love historical fiction, but I didn’t want Judith’s story to take on the weight of the genre’s conventional expectations. I wanted her narrative to enjoy the prerogatives of contemporary fiction, where character can reign supreme, and the backdrop can be Anytown, USA, Now-ish—as non-specific as Roswell Station feels.

Though these impressions were instinctual as I wrote, after I was done I came to see Roswell Station as mirror of Judith’s character.  It’s a young settlement, inexperienced at cohering as a community. It teeters on the brink; it’s small and powerless against formidable threats. It has little in the way of neighbors from which to draw support when attacked. Odds are long against its survival. It still bears the scars of past tragedies, wounds for which no healing seems possible. Inexplicably, though, it survives. With slight adjustments, I could make all of these statements about Judith herself.

When Judith returns to town after being released by her captor, she is treated as a pariah, even by her own mother. After seeing her endure so much pain, it was difficult, as a reader, to experience that emotional withdrawal, especially after discovering that Judith’s father had died while she was gone. Only her oafish brother Darrel tries to maintain a normal relationship with her. Comment?

Heaping pain on Judith wasn’t a willful choice on my part–it was already there surrounding her. Suffering can destroy people, and pain isn’t necessarily sacred. But in Judith, it’s part of what draws me to her. Her experiences and wounds have forged in her an intensity of feeling, an exquisite wisdom and poignancy, and even a deep well of irony and humor. She’s more resilient than she could have imagined herself to be, and more inspiring than she could possibly know.

Her trials have not only given her courage, but they’ve liberated her, to some extent, from the repressions of her society. She grieves for lost intimacy with her mother, but by severing emotional ties with her daughter, the mother has also set Judith free from her influence and control. All this isolation has taught Judith that she can only look to herself to create the life she wants, and her invisibility lets her fly under the radar and do it.

As for Darrel, when Judith returned from her captivity, he was already well-practiced in the art of heaping misery on her. That’s what younger brothers do. There’s something disarmingly honest about Darrel’s mistreatment of Judith. He’s rotten to her as spoiled younger brothers are, not as sanctimonious bigots are. They share the solidarity siblings do, with a common parental enemy, and then Darrel’s injury only increases that solidarity, and shows them how they can help each other.

When Judith agrees to help Darrel get to school each day, she encounters Rupert Gillis the schoolmaster, who is quite a despicable creature. And there are the Robinson sisters, the “mean girls” of Roswell Station. Is it her love for her brother or her own desire to learn that motivates her to keep going?

I think it’s both, and both at a very deep level. Having committed herself to a path of learning to read, nothing will deter her from that. The same is true with the commitment she made to help Darrel gain his education. Both goals are audacious acts of defiance. She will not allow Darrel’s lost foot to destroy his chance at a full life, any more than she will allow her own injuries to destroy hers. I think she needs Darrel to win to reinforce her own hopes for herself. It helps, perhaps, that their mother is furiously opposed to both objectives. It makes trudging Darrel to school a double-whammy in the stick-it-to-mean-old-Mom department.

The relationship between Judith and Maria is quite striking and remarkable. It appears, at first, that they are rivals for Lucas’ affections, but that quickly changes, partly as the result of a territorial skirmish. As you were writing the book, did you foresee the close relationship that eventually develops between these two young women?

Not at all. It took me very much by surprise. This book was a figure-it-out-as-I-go journey, with Judith at the helm. The moment when I had my first inkling that Maria might become more than a bewitching rival was when Judith chucked an egg at Leon. That’s when I realized Maria had enough confidence and self-possession to be kind, if she wanted to. She had no need to bow to the collective will.

Phantom is absolutely my favorite animal character in YA lit this year. She serves as a bridge between Judith and Lucas, as well as Lucas and his father. I am a sucker for horses; I’m a big fan of Dove from Maggie Stiefvater’s The Scorpio Races. Is Phantom modeled after a horse you knew as a child, or from a horse story that you loved?

Oh, I wish I’d known a horse as a child. I did grow up on a farm, and I knew families with horses, but I’ve never in my life even ridden a horse. Isn’t that tragic? I was an enormous fan of the Black Stallion series as a child–I can see my set of 1970s paperbacks from where I sit writing now, so perhaps that’s where some of my horse-love began. I did grow up surrounded by animals, if not horses, and I’ve noticed that a deep connection to an animal always seems to find its way into my writing again and again. No protagonist is complete, in my world, without her familiar. There’s something so pure and faithful about a pet’s love, so perfectly unjudging and forgiving.

Judith has been in love with Lucas since he was “a lisping, curly-headed boy,” who she and her mother journeyed with across the sea, their families eventually settling just acres apart in Roswell Station. As a teen, she proclaims about Lucas, more to herself than anyone else, that “It was always you.” Her love grows from a girlish crush to a love so deep she is willing to see him be happy with someone else rather than be alone. Comment?

While All the Truth That’s in Me clearly has a lot to say about speech, courage, and injustice, I hope readers will also find it has a lot to say about love. Most of us learn our lessons in love through a long line of infatuations, friendships, and relationships, leading (we may or may not hope) to The One. For Judith, there was only one person, start to finish. I think that idea frightens some people. Ask most adults how life would be for them now if they’d married their first crush, and they shudder (myself included). But I do love the idea of this kind of loyalty and devotion going back to those early moments in life when the heart is soft, and the eyes wide-open. I think it says a lot about Judith that she’s capable of such devotion, and a lot about Lucas that he’s worthy of it. Devotion and loyalty don’t require us to marry our kindergarten sweeties, thank goodness, but they are still hallmarks of real love. I don’t see Lucas’s capacity for love as diminished by his affections having shifted elsewhere for a time. They both had a lot to learn.

Love will force upon us this dilemma: if we truly, deeply care for another, we will put their happiness above our desires for them, and if their real happiness is to be found with someone else, love requires us to say goodbye. It stinks, but there it is.

I think the book took its significant turn in the moment when Judith came to see, painfully, how absurdly she’d given her heart away, how cloying her obsession had become, and how unhealthy. Her choice to walk away was a dramatic moment, and an act of tremendous courage and self-love. This isn’t a story of a girl who wants a boy, finally gets him, and lives happily ever after. It’s a story of a girl who learns to choose what is best for her, rather than letting fear of loneliness choose for her. To me, this is her real triumph.

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

Marilyn Jones’s book is worth mentioning.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With the exception of the National School Library Program of the Year Award, the deadline for AASL awards and grants is February 1, 2014. The National School Library Program of the Year Award deadline is January 1, 2014.

Applications now open include the Innovative Reading Grant ($2,500), sponsored by Capstone, which is designed to fund literacy projects for grades K-9, and the Intellectual Freedom Award, which grants $2,000 to the winner and $1,000 to the school library of the winner’s choice, sponsored by ProQuest, and given for upholding the principles of intellectual freedom as set forth by AASL and the American Library Association (ALA).

With the exception of the National School Library Program of the Year Award, the deadline for AASL awards and grants is February 1, 2014. The National School Library Program of the Year Award deadline is January 1, 2014. All applications will close at 4:30 p.m. CST on the day of the deadline.

Paradise Valley, John Mayer (Columbia)

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

Madden 25 (Electronic Arts)

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

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

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

What is Mix It Up at Lunch Day? This program, now in its tenth year, was developed by Teaching Tolerance, a project of The Southern Poverty Law Center. Since the cafeteria is common ground to all school students, it also is the place where most cultural and social lines are drawn. By encouraging kids to sit at a different table and hang out with someone new, these divisions can be broken down through the simple act of breaking bread together, and sharing a conversation.

Teaching Tolerance has many resources available, from posters to discussion guides. You can also register your school as an official Mix It Up participant—over 2000 schools have already registered. Plan now to take advantage of this free and easy-to-implement program.

Please send your name, the name of your library, and complete mailing address (US only) to leah@beyondword.com with “So, You Want to Be a Chef? Giveaway” as the subject line by September 30, 2013. Fifty winners will be chosen at random and will be notified via email by October 15.

The third title in the “Be What You Want” series, So, You Want to Be a Chef? provides tips and advice from kids as well as seasoned professionals. Recipes, activities, and sidebars with fun factoids, like the history of the cupcake, keep readers engaged.

Discover more in the “Be What You Want” series with So, You Want to Be a Writer? and XXX, both available now. Don’t wait to grow up to discover your dreams, get started today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amulet Books, an imprint of Abrams, recently announced that the Splintered story will continue as a trilogy. The sequel, Unhinged, releases in January 2014 and will be followed by the final title, Ensnared, the following year. Readers will be thrilled to see that the love triangle heats up in the second installment and they will have to decide if they are Team Jeb or Team Morpheus. Visit the Unhinged blog for more about the trilogy, and to check out the creepy book trailer!

So, what’s the goal of this orientation anyway? First, I’d like all students to learn that the library is a friendly, welcoming place, a safe haven in the storm that is high school. Sometimes all a student needs is a place to hide out. Secondly, I want all students to really know what we have to offer them: fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, audiobooks, magazines, and reference books. I want them to actually log in and access our ebook collection. I want them to use the databases, save articles, and generate citations. All of this is a fairly large hope for a group of kids who’ll undoubtedly ask, “How many points is this worth?”  So knowing my audience fairly well, I’ve decided to resort to outright bribery, and I’m going to convince my staff to be open and prepared for the chaos I’m sure to unleash.

I’m putting together a scavenger hunt. Yes, I know, this is not a terribly new idea.  But I’m planning on throwing a few twists in to make it interesting and keep the students engaged.  Students will travel around the library in groups of no more than three. To begin, each group will receive a clue, in the form of a Call Number, which leads them to a different print location so not all students are converging on the same spot at the same time. I’ll need to develop at least 12 different scavenger paths so students touch on everything fabulous in the library without tripping over each other.  When students locate their book, they’ll find one of those old plastic VHS cases disguised as a book and containing candy (Smarties most likely) and their next clue, which will be one of a variety of things. Several will direct them to specific computer stations with directions to access a specific database. They’ll need to locate an article on a given topic, generate the citation, and email it to me along with their group number so we can keep everyone organized and on individual scavenger paths. I plan to have my assistant back in my office sending out the next clue when she receives correct emails. Other clues will lead to “books” containing QR codes linking to our website. One clue will direct them to check out an ebook. Yet another clue will lead them to iPads loaded with Aurasma videos demonstrating how to download newspapers and periodicals on their laptops and smartphones.

Ultimately, the real goal of this chaotic undertaking is to teach kids that the library is a place where questions are answered, passions are pursued, and where dreams are launched. Obviously, this is a work in progress, but as it takes shape, I’d love to hear what other librarians are doing to spice up their obligatory orientation.

For more ideas on how to spice up your orientation, check out Joyce Valenza‘s Orientation Inspiration post on her Neverending Search blog.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Antonin Karganilla wants to become a comic book artist, but other than that, being gay is the most normal thing about him. His uncle is an aquatic plant man, his aunt is a molecular biologist back from the dead, and his mom is an overprotective pain in the butt. Antonin’s in boarding school and it’s starting to look like he and this Harry kid might have a lot in common… and that means a whole new set of problems.

A thrill ride with superheros, extraordinary science, and unexpected twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Jessica Freely’s debut YA novel features a dystopian world where family is what you create. Harmony Ink Press wants to help you expand your LGBT YA offerings and has 30 copies of All the Colors of Love to send to interested libraries. Send an email to nessa@harmonyinkpress.com with your US or Canadian mailing address before September 25; winners, chosen at random, will be notified by September 30.

Crash My Party, Luke Bryan (Capital/Nashville)

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

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

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

Intertwined within the film are the perspectives of the doctors and nurses at Parkland Hospital, where Kennedy was rushed after the shooting; the Secret Service agent in charge of the Dallas district; the amateur cameraman who caught some of the most sought-after and scrutinized footage ever made; the FBI agents who had interrogated Lee Harvey Oswald and then released him; the president’s security team; and more. The action unfolds with heart-pounding immediacy, as the featured characters react to the crisis with shock, outrage, fortitude, and heroism. Zac Efron, Marcia Gay Harden, Billy Bob Thornton, Jacki Weaver, and Paul Giamatti headline the talented ensemble cast. The film is based on Vincent Bugliosi’s book, Four Days in November (2007), which has been re-issued with a movie tie-in cover and re-titled Parkland (2013, both W.W. Norton).

Gripping Nonfiction Reads

Commemorate the semicentennial of this momentous event with stellar nonfiction titles for teens that will inform film viewers curious to know more, captivate history buffs, and provide insights for classroom exploration and research projects.

Beginning with succinct chapters about Kennedy and his administration, the bulk of James L. Swanson’s “The President Has Been Shot!” (Scholastic, 2013; Gr 6 Up) zooms in on the assassination and its aftermath. The well-written narrative balances in-depth research and illuminating details with the suspenseful pacing and dramatic urgency of a crime thriller. Delving into the shadowy background and murky motives of Oswald, Swanson paints a portrait of “a malcontent with a chip on his shoulder,” a self-styled intellectual who dreamed big but “failed at everything he had ever attempted.” The moment-by-moment account switches back and forth between the perspectives of the assassin and the individuals riding in the motorcade as the happenings unfold before readers’ eyes. Throughout, Swanson identifies “staggering” coincidences, fateful decisions, and unfortunate missteps that contribute to the tragic chain of events. The detailed coverage also includes the swearing in of Lyndon B. Johnson, the capture and on-camera shooting of Oswald, and the president’s funeral, carefully orchestrated by a distraught Jackie Kennedy. An epilogue treats the Warren Report and touches upon Kennedy’s legacy. Numerous archival black-and-white photos, many taken on that ill-fated day, add resonance and detail to the text, and a section of diagrams and illustrations provide additional information. Thoughtful and thorough, Swanson’s account deftly draws teens into the particulars and emotions of the moment, resulting in a look at history that is both revealing and riveting. Also available in audio version.

Bill O’Reilly’s Kennedy’s Last Days: The Assassination That Defined a Generation (Holt, 2013; Gr 5 Up) pairs staccato chapters with a striking selection of archival photographs. The author provides a fast-reading introduction to Kennedy, his rise to the presidency, and the highlights of his administration, including the Bay of Pigs invasion, Cuban Missile Crisis, civil rights conflicts, and the 1963 March on Washington. Interspersed are concurrent glimpses at the life of Lee Harvey Oswald as he defects to and returns from the Soviet Union, drifts from job to job, is left by his Russian wife, and takes a menial post at the Texas School Book Depository. The book culminates with the events of November 22, 1963, as their paths collide with devastating results. Well-chosen black-and-white photos grace almost every page, and a full-color unset features photos off the first family. The side-by-side depictions of the doings of these two very different men—one an intelligent and accomplished world leader and the other a longtime loser with delusions of grandeur—makes for a mesmerizing and informative read. The book is also available in audio version (Macmillan Audio), and a teacher’s guide can be downloaded at the publisher’s website.

Soon to be re-issued in paperback, Ilene Cooper’s Jack: The Early Years of John F. Kennedy (Dutton, 2003; Gr 7 Up) focuses on JFK’s childhood and adolescence. Readers meet a spirited, though often sickly youngster with a winning personality who always seemed destined to play second fiddle to his much-accomplished older brother. Though the Kennedy offspring lived a life of privilege, they were expected to follow strict household rules and meet the high expectations of their demanding father, Joseph (“We want winners in this house, not losers”). Handily setting events in the historical and social context of the times, Cooper provides a vivid look at the family relationships, boyhood challenges, and notable experiences that would help define Kennedy’s character. Quotes and anecdotes from family members and close associates are sprinkled throughout, along with numerous black-and-white photos and reproductions of letters. Jack, with his passion for reading, “happy-go-lucky veneer,” and proclivity for getting into trouble, comes across as a likable young man, and teens will enjoy making his acquaintance.

Go Back to 1963…

Set in the early 1960s, these captivating novels transport readers to days of bouffant hairdos and bellbottom jeans, bomb shelters and air-raid drills, civil rights clashes and Cold War anxiety.

It’s the fall of 1962, and Franny has been bombarded with dilemmas—her best friend has suddenly turned spiteful, her college-age sister has a mysterious secret, her elderly uncle’s behavior is becoming increasingly outlandish (and mortifying), and a cute boy has just moved back to her suburban Maryland town. Meanwhile, everyone is keeping an eye cocked for falling bombs and duck-and-cover drills are part of a typical school day. Doomsday seems even more imminent when President Kennedy informs the American public that Russia is sending nuclear missiles to Cuba. How will Franny find hope for the future? In Countdown (Scholastic, 2010; Gr 5-8), Deborah Wiles balances her protagonist’s personal crises with a compelling depiction of the era. Scattered throughout this “documentary novel’s” first-person narrative are an abundance of archival photographs, newspaper clippings, speech excerpts, safety pamphlets, song lyrics, profiles of famous people, and more. Image-heavy and aptly chosen, these primary source materials add punch to the text and plunge readers into Franny’s world.

Fiona is of Irish descent and Yolanda is African American. Having met at their Bronx, NY, public school, the two eighth graders forged a bond, despite their different backgrounds and the fact that many people—including family members and peers—believe that friendship should not cross the racial divide. The daughter of a violently abusive, alcoholic father, Fiona’s family life is a disaster, while Yolanda constantly deals with prejudice; both girls feel like outsiders and value the understanding and acceptance their camaraderie brings. However, when the popular white girls take an interest in Fiona, her relationship with Yolanda is put to the test. Set against an emotionally charged mural of social issues, family struggles, and coming-of-age concerns, Mary Ann McGuigan’s Morning in a Different Place (Front Street, 2009; Gr 7-9) comes to a climax on the day of Kennedy’s assassination. Inspired by the never-back-down Yolanda, Fiona finally realizes that she must find the strength to take a stand and bring about change…in her own family and in society at large.

Not only does sixth-grader Ellie reside on Witch Tree Lane—a cul-de-sac populated by families considered social outcasts by the conservative residents of small-town Spectacle, NY—but she also lives in a state of constant embarrassment brought on by the antics of her flamboyant mother (the self-dubbed Doris Day Dingman), a would-be starlet whose brazen tackiness is equaled only by her flippant neglectfulness. Ellie is the one who takes on household chores and looks after her siblings. Viciously bullied at school along with her best friend Holly, Ellie is also disturbed by the hate crimes that have been occurring on her street. When President Kennedy is shot, the family is devastated, and Doris, realizing that time is fleeting, departs for the razzle-dazzle of New York City to launch her career. It’s heart-wrenching to be abandoned, but Ellie finds comfort and strength in family and friends. Ultimately, she emerges from the over-inflated shadow of her mother to discover that her life is not empty but delightfully full. Poignant and uplifting, Ann M. Martin’s Here Today (Scholastic, 2004; Gr 6-8) features a likable protagonist and a compelling portrayal of the era.

Grounded for his alleged misdeeds, 12-year-old Jack is spending the summer of 1962 under house arrest, excavating for the family bomb shelter and trying to lay low. Of course he jumps at the opportunity to help his elderly neighbor, whose crippling arthritis has made her job as town coroner, obituary writer, and historian difficult. Under the tutelage of the feisty Miss Volker, Jack soon learns that Norvelt, PA—a community of cooperative homesteads launched during the Great Depression under the auspices of Eleanor Roosevelt—has a fascinating past…and a far-from-boring present marked by hostile visits from the Hells Angels, oddball adventures involving dead bodies (frequently triggering Jack’s stress-induced nosebleeds), and even a murder mystery. Filled with delightfully quirky characters, slice-of-life details, and madcap laugh-out-loud antics, Jack Gantos’s Dead End in Norvelt (FSG, 2011; Gr 5-9) also emphasizes coming-of-age themes, encourages contemplation of political principles (Jack’s mother believes in Norvelt’s extend-a-helping-hand ideals while his father calls it a “Commie town” and can’t wait to fly the coop), and underscores the importance of knowing about—and learning from—history, a message particularly pertinent in this year of anniversaries. An audio version is available from Macmillan Audio, and educators can download a teacher’s guide. Jack’s escapades continue in From Norvelt to Nowhere (2013, both FSG).

Publication Information

SWANSON, James L. “The President Has Been Shot!”: The Assassination of John F. Kennedy. Scholastic. Sept. 2013. Tr $18.99. ISBN 978-0-545-49007-8; Audio Library Ed. $39.99. ISBN 978-0-545-60276-1.

O’REILLY, Bill. Kennedy’s Last Days: The Assassination That Defined a Generation. Holt. 2013. Tr $19.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-9802-0. ebook $9.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-9974-4; Audio CD. $19.99. ISBN 9781427235169. (Macmillan Audio).

COOPER, Ilene. Jack: The Early Years of John F. Kennedy. Puffin/Penguin. Oct. 2013. pap. $12.99. ISBN 9780147510310.

WILES, Deborah. Countdown. Scholastic. 2010. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-545-10605-4; pap. $7.99. ISBN 978-0-545-10606-1.

MCGUIGAN, Mary Ann. Morning in a Different Place. Front Street. 2009. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-1-59078-551-5.

MARTIN, Ann M. Here Today. Scholastic. 2004. pap. $7.99. ISBN 9780439579452.

GANTOS, Jack. Dead End in Norvelt. FSG. 2011. Tr $15.99. ISBN 9780374379933; pap. $7.99. ISBN 978-1-250-01023-0 (Square Fish); Audio version. $29.99. ISBN 9781427213563 (Macmillan Audio).

DAMICO, Gina. Rogue. Houghton Harcourt. Sept. 2013. pap. $8.99. ISBN 9780544108844.

Gr 7 Up—Let me start by saying that if you haven’t read the other two books in this series, Croak (2012) and Scorch (2013), I strongly suggest you do so. However, to the other faithful fans of Damico’s books who will dig right in, please have some tissues ready because you will cry. The book starts off with a little description of Grotton’s past. Chapter one, however, picks up where Scorch left off. After Mort and the others get away safely, secrets are revealed and hidden agendas become known. The gang never questions their loyalty as they agree to risk their lives to save the world they love. People will die, hearts will be broken, and an amazing twist will probably have you meet your ‘DeMyse’. This book is hands-down morbidly “cracktastic.”

This book had me on the edge of my seat from the very start. I cried when I finished this book. Gina Damico, you have truly outdone yourself. Although the ending is messed up and downright evil, I wouldn’t have made it any other way. The wild ride this series took me on has come to an end, but I am confident it will last forever in the Afterlife. Damico has put an amazing spin on death and turned it into a very awesome experience. This book has all the passion, humor, drama, action, thrills, and suspense any reader would look for. Thank you for this amazing series, and I hope that you make more. I look forward to seeing how you will possibly top this.—Fred T., age 14

ROWELL, Rainbow. Fangirl. St. Martin’s Griffin Tr $18.99. September 2013. ISBN  9781250030955.

Gr 9 Up—Cath just wants to write. Well, she just wants to write Simon Snow fanfiction—because that’s the only thing that seems to be working. Between dealing with her twin sister Wren, being a college freshmen (and unable to deal with most social situations), having to finish her internationally adored fanfiction Carry On, Simon, and trying to impress her Intro to Fiction-Writing professor, all Cath wants is to hide away in the online world and finish her fic before the eighth and final Simon Snow book is published. Life doesn’t seem to agree with what she wants, though, and instead throws chaos her way in the forms of romance, friendship, and family.

This is the second book by Rainbow Rowell I’ve read, and of course she blew me away again! Fangirl explores reaching adulthood and fighting the battle of doing what you want to do versus what you should do, all the while managing whatever life throws at you. A book about a fanfiction writer is a long time coming, and I think Fangirl was pretty spot on. With YA novels, sometimes it can feel, for a reader, like the author finds the world of fandoms and fanfiction boring or weird, but Rowell puts fanfiction writing into perspective for readers. She gives the pros and cons of fanfic writing through conflicts in the novel, and that this book is written by a writer writing about a writer writing is so much fun to me. As I reader I could tell Cath and Rowell both feel passionately about writing.—Destiny B., age 16

DOUGLAS, Helen. After Eden. Bloomsbury. Nov. 2013. tr. $17.99. ISBN 9781619631304.

Gr 8 Up—The new boy, Ryan, has caught the eye of everyone at Perran High School, but it seems Ryan is solely interested in Eden. Eventually, Eden and Ryan start to fall in love and Ryan tells Eden the biggest secret she’s ever had to keep—Eden’s best friend Connor will discover a beautiful new planet that can support human life. Discovery of the new planet, however, ruins life on Earth. Ryan has traveled back in time to prevent Connor from discovering the planet and he needs Eden’s help. But Eden isn’t sure she wants to take away Connor’s future of fame and fortune.

Time travel, love,  and destiny combine to create a thrilling sci-fi love story. Falling in love with someone that’s over 100 years younger than you was an interesting twist to the typical tale. I liked the secrecy of Ryan’s mission and origin and the time traveling details. I recommend this quick-read to anyone who likes futuristic, out-of-this-world elements.—Paris E., age 17

The IRA Arbuthnot Award recognizes an outstanding college or university teacher of children’s and/or young adult literature. The award honors the memory of May Hill Arbuthnot (1884-1969) who, along with educator William Scott Gray, created and wrote the Curriculum Foundation Readers— better known as the “Dick and Jane” series—for children, published by Scott, Foresman and Company (now Pearson Scott Foresman). Arbuthnot then went on to write and edit many seminal texts on children’s literature and reading, including The Arbuthnot Anthology of Children’s Literature. The deadline for submission is November 15, 2013; nominees must be IRA members.

The IRA Jerry Johns Outstanding Teacher Educator in Reading Award is a $1,000 award supported by Jerry Johns, a distinguished teacher, writer, outstanding teacher educator, and popular professional development speaker for schools, school districts, and conferences. This award honors an outstanding college or university teacher of reading methods or reading-related courses. Nominees must be IRA members, affiliated with a college or a university, and engaged in teacher preparation in reading at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels. Nominations for this award are also due November 15, 2013.

Krahnke will use the grant to purchase books to give away as library card registration incentives and for the library’s monthly teen book club, while Rérat’s goal is to partner with the Jasper County (MO) Juvenile Detention Center and update the center’s library.

Funds raised through Books for Teens will be distributed to institutions in communities with a high level of poverty, where librarians and library workers will purchase and distribute new books, encourage teens to get library cards and provide teens with reading-focused events and activities. Visit the Books for Teens website for complete information on grant requirements.

Capstone distribution center employee with book shipment

The tornadoes decimated the city’s schools and completely destroyed its libraries. When Sharon Hagge, Capstone’s Distribution Center Coordinator, learned of the destruction in Moore, she knew her department would want to pitch in to help. They have been busy organizing the shipment, but the schools were only recently prepared to receive the large donation. “We know there’s a lot more work to be done, but we hope that Moore’s first school year after the storms is a happy and safe one,” Hagge said.

Each year Capstone donates more than $1 million in books worldwide, and will continue to help rebuild Moore’s libraries in particular with its “Buy a Book, Give a Book” promotion through its trade publishing program, Capstone Young Readers. The publisher donates one book to the Moore schools for every book purchased through its website. Consumers can simply use the Promo Code “MooreRelief” when placing an order online.

Teen Tech Camp: Raspberry Pi

Photo credit: Rebecca Murphey

Our library partnered with local tech professionals Julia Elman and Sarah Kahn (UNC-SILS MLS 2008) to host a daylong event focused on programming Raspberry Pi using the Python programming language. Thanks to a generous donation from the Python Software Foundation (PSF), we were able to provide each attendee with a Raspberry Pi, power supply, an SD card, and two books on programming in Python to take home.

The event was open to students ages 12 to 18, regardless of previous computer programming experience. Sign up was first-come, first-served, and teens who attended a similar event in Fall 2012 were given a bit of advance notice. Only twenty spots were available due to the limited amount of equipment we received from our PSF grant. Volunteers from the tech community set up the network and provided instruction. Noted Python educator Kurt Grandis developed the curriculum outline for the day, but when Kurt had a family emergency, Clinton Dreisbach stepped in at short notice to provide the actual instruction.

Seventeen students spent from 10 am to 5 pm learning the basics of programming in Python as well as the ins and outs of using a Raspberry Pi. We were able to send them home with the materials provided by the grant, as well as a free monitor, keyboard, and mouse. In other words, a free computer. How much did this cost my library? About $30, spent on name badges and painter’s tape.

Powerful Partnerships

Photo credit: Rebecca Murphey

How was it possible to provide such high quality STEM programming to the teens in Durham for almost no cost to the library? We were able to benefit from powerful partnerships. When the PSF grant came through (in a mere six weeks), Sarah and Julia began canvassing for volunteers and materials.

They gathered gently used peripherals from individual donors as well as from Triangle Ecycling, a local ewaste recycling organization. Julia’s company, Caktus Consulting Group, provided funding for a healthy breakfast and lunch for campers and volunteers. Splatspace, a local hackerspace, donated nifty 3D printed Raspberry Pi cases. The City of Wilson (home of North Carolina’s first community owned gigabit broadband network) provided the campers with goody bags and cool promo sunglasses. Providing these extras was a great way to show teens and their parents that they are valued members of the library community.

Lasting Results

Teen Tech Camp attendees ranged from 12 year-olds with no programming experience to 18-year-old veteran hackers. Teaching complex concepts to a diverse audience was not easy. Some of our attendees were definitely more motivated by the copy of Minecraft we preloaded on to their Pi than anything else.

Photo credit: Rebecca Murphey

But to quote organizer Julia Elman, our “goal for the 2013 Teen Tech Camp was not to have the students walk out of the library, ready to take on complex computer programming challenges. It was to spark interest in the students and get them excited… By using varying techniques and providing a safe space for learning, we were able to engage every student at an individual pace. They will take away the motivation, energy and drive to keep on learning, because someone believes in them.”

During the 2013-2014 school year, we plan to support the young coding community created at Teen Tech Camp by hosting library sponsored hackerthons and providing further resources online. By providing high quality materials and technology instruction to young people, we hope to empower the next generation, increase diversity in the technology field, and encourage teens to be digital content creators as well as consumers. You can do it too!

Autumn Winters, Teen Services Manager at Southwest Regional Library, a regional branch of the Durham County Library system in Durham, North Carolina

Nominate your peers, staff, and friends to join the company of past honorees, including Jennifer Velasquez, Teen Services Coordinator, San Antonio PL (2011); Renee Grassi, Youth Services Librarian, Glencoe Public Library, IL (2012); Corey Wittig, Digital Teen Librarian, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA (2012); Lindsey Tomsu, Teen Librarian, La Vista Public Library, NE (2013), and many more!  Movers and Shakers 2014 will celebrate the new professionals who are moving our libraries ahead. The next round of 50+ winners will be featured in the March 15, 2014 issue of LJ and celebrated at an awards luncheon in Las Vegas during ALA Annual 2014. The deadline to submit is November 2^nd so don’t wait. Click here for submission information.