Fiction

ALLEN, Justin. Year of the Horse. 320p. Overlook. 2009. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-1-59020-273-9. LC number unavailable. Gr 9 Up—A Western adventure swollen with minor incidents and bits of devilish sorcery occasionally spliced in, this novel lacks cohesion, historical imagination, or fantasy flair. Fictionalized place-names take readers uncertainly (sans map) from the Mississippi to the Pacific; the style nods faintly to Twain and McMurtry. Detail is often irrelevant; atmosphere is spotty (e.g., many cigarettes are smoked, none rolled). Gratuitous gore and firearms abound, but dramatic action is absent for the first 100 pages, sparse thereafter. Although the crew is nominally multiethnic, little distinguishes Hispanic, black, or Asian characters aside from their names. No one is very bright or has an interior life. The 15-year-old ostensibly Chinese hero and the 16-year-old unromantic heroine (whose rough speech is oddly unlike the polished diction of the Southern-gentleman father who raised her) seem about 11. A legendary white gunslinger/shapeshifter implausibly speaks "Indian," Chinese, and ho rse. Post-Civil War Yankees are prejudiced, arrogant, and aggressive, and "Saints" (Mormons?) are also vilified. A pile of gold provides a stilted, simplistic ending to an unheroic journey with a tacked-on patriotic message.—Patricia D. Lothrop, St. George's School, Newport, RI ALMOND, David. Raven Summer. 240p. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73806-4; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90715-6. LC number unavailable. Gr 7–9—Liam lives with his father, a famous writer, and his mother, a photographer, on Britain's Northumbrian coast. One day out wandering with his friend Max, Liam is led by a raven to a baby left with a note and some money. When Liam and his parents visit the infant's foster family, Liam connects immediately with two of the foster children, Crystal, a wild-child girl, and Oliver, a refugee from Liberia. Liam's mother falls in love with the baby, and she comes to live with his family. When Crystal and Oliver run away to Liam's secret hideaway, Oliver reveals his true identity, and Liam is forced to explore the darkest parts of his own soul as he realizes the evil he is capable of doing. Raven Summer is set in the recent past against the backdrop of the war in Iraq. It explores how children everywhere are physically and psychologically scarred by violence and brutality that they cannot escape and can be led to do horrible things. Almond's story is a passionate plea for peace, and the putting away of weapons of war. While the question of the book's audience is a valid one, and while there are perhaps a few places where the children seem impossibly wise, and are even perhaps acting as mouthpieces for the author, this book is exquisitely crafted and will make any reader stop and think about the consequences of violence.—Tim Wadham, St. Louis County Library, MO APPELBAUM, Susannah. The Hollow Bettle. Bk. 1. illus. by Jennifer Taylor. 399p. (The Poisons of Caux Series). appendix. CIP. Knopf/Borzoi. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-375-85173-5; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-375-95173-2. LC 2008022626. Gr 5–9—This story is set in Caux, now ruled by tyrannical King Nightshade. Under his regime, the healing arts have been pushed aside in favor of poisonry. In fact, avoiding being poisoned is a daily concern that has given rise to a shadowy guild that trains and accredits professional food tasters. When 11-year-old Ivy's uncle—the last apothoepath healer in the kingdom—disappears, she sets off to find him, accompanied by Rowan, a recently graduated young taster whose skills become suspect after a number of the king's men end up poisoned while on his watch. Ivy carries a very special bettle, or gem, which has mysterious healing powers. This unusual object may be one reason she's being pursued by guards and the minions of Vidal Verjouce, the frightening head of the Tasters' Guild, but other reasons soon come to light. The writing is vivid and there are many delightful ideas in this first novel, but the plot depends on all-too-familiar fantasy tropes used in unorig inal ways: a prophecy, an orphaned child, and predictable family relationships. Still, the story manages to remain compelling. Several atmospheric black-and-white illustrations are included.—Tim Wadham, St. Louis County Library, MO ARMSTRONG, Alan. Looking for Marco Polo. illus. by Tim Jessell. 304p. CIP. Random. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-375-83321-2; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-375-93321-9. LC 2008008815. Gr 5–7—This story within a story brings to life the adventures of the famed 13th-century Venetian explorer. It begins in the modern day with the disappearance of 11-year-old Mark's father, who is tracing Polo's route through the Gobi desert. Mark and his mother travel to Venice to help with the search. While there, Mark has a terrible asthma attack and meets his dad's army friend Dr. Hornaday, who decides to entertain his patient with imaginative stories about Marco Polo. His tales are full of color and excitement; the details, although they are not based on known historical events, are grounded in the author's research on Polo's times and the places he claimed to have seen. The narrative becomes a little confusing: Hornaday's dog can talk to Mark and describes what Polo's homecoming to Venice was like, as passed down through his dog ancestors. The descriptions of the world in the 13th century are fascinating, and the imagined relationship between Kublai Khan and Polo is i ntriguing, but due to its complicated structure, this isn't a book for reluctant readers. Illustrations are interspersed throughout. The novel is an excellent supplement for those studying the explorer and his world. Extensive chapter notes are included, but there is no map.—Caroline Tesauro, Radford Public Library, VA BALOG, Cyn. Fairy Tale. 248p. CIP. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73706-7; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90644-9. LC 2008035665. Gr 8 Up—Morgan Sparks and her football-star boyfriend, Cameron, were born on the same day. Close all their lives, the two are looking forward to celebrating their 16th birthday with a blowout bash. Then, a week before the party, Morgan catches Cameron hanging out with a new girl. It turns out that he is a fairy changeling, and that Dawn is a fairy sent to prepare him for his one-way journey back to fairyland. Pip, the gawky, geeky human who grew up in fairyland in Cam's place, has come with her. Morgan, whose psychic abilities allow her to see through the fairy spell that keeps most humans ignorant of Cam's transition, watches her once-formidable boyfriend sprout wings, shrink, and prepare to become the Fairy King. Some comic moments arise from Cam's changes, as well as from Pip's awkward acculturation into the human world and Morgan's hit-and-miss sassy narration. Underneath the comedy, there is also pathos: Morgan and Cameron losing their first love, and Cameron's coming to ac cept that the life he thought he wanted is now impossible. The plot is the weakest element: Morgan's plan to save Cam is half-hearted, the final action sequence lacks tension, and the mechanics of fairy magic are never quite consistent. Fairy Tale has a few choice witticisms and touching moments, but Morgan is no Maggie Quinn.—Megan Honig, New York Public Library BARATZ-LOGSTED, Lauren. Crazy Beautiful. 191p. CIP. Houghton. 2009. Tr $16. ISBN 978-0-547-22307-0. LC 2008040463. Gr 7 Up—Sophomore Lucius Wolfe lost both hands in an explosion of his own making, and now he is left to pick up the pieces—with steel hooks. The story is told in alternating chapters by Lucius (Crazy) and Aurora (Beautiful). Baratz-Logsted does a deft job of weaving the perspectives together to show events from both points of view. Lucius chooses a bus seat so as to be left alone and is immediately called "crip"; Aurora gets on the same bus, smiles at people, and hears a voice call "New girl! Come sit back here with us." It doesn't help that Lucius has an air of arrogance about him and has changed schools to find a new start. The author spends equal time on several plotlines: Lucius, the brilliant loner destructo-kid, his amusing sister and his dysfunctional family; Aurora and her newly widowed saintly father; Nick, the good-guy security guard with dreams of the NFL; a school play; a false accusation; and Cecelia and Jessup, the scheming spurned lovers. Resolving everythin g makes the final chapters feel rushed and too perfect. However, the pacing is energetic and the topics current. Readers who have outgrown MJ Auch's One-Handed Catch and aren't quite ready for Harriet McBryde Johnson's Accidents of Nature (both Holt, 2006) might enjoy Crazy Beautiful.—Maggie Knapp, Trinity Valley School, Fort Worth, TX BARON, Kathi. Shattered. 262p. WestSide. 2009. Tr $16.95. ISBN 978-1-934813-08-9. LC number unavailable. Gr 7–10—Cassie's big moment as the youth orchestra's violin soloist is at hand and she is excited, but also uneasy about her father's increasingly erratic behavior. She never imagines his rage will escalate to the point where he destroys the vintage violin his father gave her in acknowledgment of her musical talent. Cassie runs away, with no clear idea of where she's headed or what she'll do to survive. Taking shelter at Chicago's Union Station, she finds herself telling the whole sordid story to a sympathetic young man, Nick, as he waits for his delayed train. Feeling inexplicably determined, Cassie heads for her grandfather's house several towns away, with only a bus ticket left to her name. The distance is farther than she realizes, and she winds up spending the night in a homeless shelter for teens, where suddenly her family's problems are put in perspective. Cassie and her family face difficult times as they try to find a positive way through this drama. Baron success fully uses musical metaphors in the structure of the novel—short chapters with staccato action and slower cadences reflective of the family's struggle to work their way through this situation. Cassie at times seems far more mature and reasoned than most 14-year-olds. This is a moving story that meanders a bit too long before reaching its hopeful if not terribly realistic denouement.—Roxanne Myers Spencer, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green BECK, Ian. Pastworld: A Mystery of the Near Future. 355p. CIP. Bloomsbury. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-59990-040-7. LC 2009008706. Gr 7 Up—In 2050, civilization has become sterile, controlled, peaceful, and very, very boring. In an effort to capitalize on the ennui of the rich and famous, Buckland Corporation has created the ultimate vacation destination: Pastworld, a city modeled after 19th-century London where visitors also known as "gawkers" can immerse themselves in a Victorian world complete with grueling poverty, near-primitive medicine, lawlessness, and a casual disregard for human life. When 17-year-old Caleb Brown enters Pastworld with his father, one of the theme park's creators, he is unwittingly embroiled in a Scotland Yard investigation of a series of Jack the Ripper-style murders. Befriended by a young pickpocket and a beautiful girl with amnesia, he fights for his life and future in the dark underbelly of Pastworld. Readers who enjoyed Eleanor Updale's "Montmorency" series (Scholastic) will find this novel equally suspenseful and gripping. This spellbinding page-turner will keep readers on th e edge of their seats.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK BENDINGER, Jessica. The Seven Rays. 320p. S & S. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-3839-2. LC number unavailable. Gr 10 Up—Beth, a straight-A Columbia University-bound senior from Illinois, suddenly begins seeing odd images that do not make sense. Pink dots cover her best friend, and woven braids appear to jump around her mother. When she receives a letter postmarked from New York City that reads "You are more than you think you are," Beth wonders if that is indeed true—or if she is losing her mind. In the midst of all this, Beth falls for an older troubled classmate in one her elective college courses. A first kiss leads to literal electricity, extreme heat, and Richie's entanglement in Beth's mysterious and terrifying life. He aids her in an elaborate escape from a mental-health facility and a cross-country trip complete with a not-quite-sex (but still graphic) scene in a motel. Beth's journey ends when she encounters the group that sent her the puzzling letter. They give her a series of elaborate tests, most of which are a typical teen's worst fears realized, including stripping in public and getting an extreme haircut. Beth's baffling challenges are explained by weak and contrived metaphors. Bendinger's overly complicated, lackluster first novel fails to engage readers. Clever quips reminiscent of the author's Sex and the City writing career do little to spice up the reading experience of this odd fantasy/adventure. Too many convoluted plotlines arise with answers too few, and the characters do not engender much sympathy or interest.—Tara Kehoe, Plainsboro Public Library, NJ BJORKMAN, Lauren. My Invented Life. 232p. CIP. Holt. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-8950-9. LC 2008050279. Gr 9 Up—Self-proclaimed drama geek Roz Peterson has an active fantasy life, which she often confuses with reality. She thinks that her sister Eva, who is no longer confiding in her, is a lesbian and in love with her friend Carmen. Roz dreams of Eva's boyfriend, Bryan, reciprocating her longtime crush. In an effort to encourage her sister, Roz decides to come out at school and invent a new sexual identity for herself as a lesbian, the only problem being that she is basically heterosexual. The hapless Roz is an exceptionally unreliable narrator who makes clumsy attempts to figure out what is going on with all the other people in her life. All this real-life gender-bending takes place during the drama club's production of As You Like It. This novel is particularly good at evoking teenage confusion about sexual preference and identity, and Bjorkman's depiction of the drama-club crowd is absolutely spot-on, especially the characters' trading of Shakespearean insults online and the practical jokes they play on one another. Narrator Roz is funny, well intentioned, and likable despite her cluelessness, and she is surrounded by a realistic cast of adult and teen characters representing a wide variety of viewpoints and sexual preferences. This is an enjoyable read that will be especially appealing to theater aficionados.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ BREDSDORFF, Bodil. Eidi. Bk. 2. tr. from Danish by Kathryn Mahaffy. 138p. (The Children of Crow Cove Series). map. CIP. Farrar. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-374-31267-1. LC 2008026052. Gr 4–7—In The Crow-Girl (Farrar, 2004), Bredsdorff introduces readers to a group of characters composed of tattered remnants of families that death or pain have dissolved. That background is missing here, leaving readers a bit puzzled as to how they are related, but it soon doesn't matter as Eidi takes over the tale. The daughter of Foula, who has a new husband and a new baby, Eidi feels uncertain of her place in the household. She travels with a kindly neighbor, Rossan, to the city, where she finds a needy orphan, a young boy named Tink, cruelly mistreated by his stepfather. Eidi gradually grows to understand her own desires, abilities, and power as she nurtures Tink and fights for his survival and her own. The time and place are quite vague; the author brings to life a simply functioning world similar to that found in fairy tales—a place that is both specific and universal. Lyrically told, the narrative provides apt descriptions of events and of the natural world. Readers easily decode the motivations and inner thoughts revealed in the actions and words of the characters who are vividly and quickly delineated but possess lively complexities. An excellent follow-up for fans of the first book.—Carol A. Edwards, Denver Public Library, CO BROWN, Paul. Wolf Pack of the Winisk River. illus. by Robert Kakegamic. 192p. CIP. Lobster. 2009. pap. $10.95. ISBN 978-1-897550-10-6. LC C2008-906266-3. Gr 6–11—With stunning realism, Wolf, an alpha male, and his pack come nose to nose with impending starvation and violent death. This fierce fight against the elements in the Canadian wilderness is wrapped in free verse from a first-time novelist: "viciously Wolf changes his grip/smothering the animal's muzzle and nose in killer jaws/jaws clamped with fifteen hundred pounds of bone-crushing pressure/preventing the caribou from breathing." The piercing eyes of Wolf on the cover hint at Brown's intense text, and each breathless page details fights against predators and prey, and a breathtaking escape from hunters can be traced on a black-line map down the Winisk River to the Hudson Bay. There is little respite from the unrelenting plot. Only the stillness and quiet of Kakegamic's black-line drawings allow readers to take a breath, because they provide visual calm. Even the italicized conversations of various camping and hunting groups' maddening stupidity maintain the swift p ace. The force and tension of Brown's work will capture those readers who want the sight, sound, smell, and taste of danger.—Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA BUCKLEY, Michael. NERDS: National Espionage, Rescue, and Defense Society. Bk. 1. illus. by Ethen Beavers. 306p. (NERDS Series). CIP. Abrams/Amulet. 2009. Tr $14.95. ISBN 978-0-8109-4324-7. LC 2009015484. Gr 5–7—An action-packed, tongue-in-cheek take on the world of superheroes and villains. Jackson Jones, 11, transitions from Mr. Popular to complete loser in the time it takes to be fitted for braces with headgear. He soon happens upon the underground headquarters of a group of outcasts called NERDS, who, with the help of technology "upgrades," turn weaknesses like allergies into superpowers, fighting crime in secret until the age of 18. While trying to escape, Jackson himself is accidentally upgraded—his braces become equipped with tiny nanobytes capable of morphing into any object. Asked to join the NERDS, Jackson quickly learns that not everyone wants him around—especially those he used to pick on. Unity must come quickly, however, to foil the evil Dr. Jigsaw, whose mission to reunite the continents of the world will lead to massive destruction. The absurd story line humorously hits on some oft-ignored topics—what is the difference between a goon, a hen chman, a minion, and an assassin anyway? Readers will delight in these unexpected touches. The pacing is quick and the action is plentiful—kids will almost hear the sound effects as they read. The book itself is treated as a top-secret NERDS case file, complete with increasingly ridiculous security-clearance requirements (thumbprint, saliva sample, money). Angular, black-and-white illustrations highlight main characters and pivotal moments. NERDS brings a worthy message to the fore—that uncool kids can grow up to be anything but. Funny, clever, and thoroughly entertaining, this title should be popular.—Travis Jonker, Dorr Elementary School, MI CALLOWAY, Cassidy. Confessions of a First Daughter. 214p. CIP. HarperTeen. 2009. pap. $8.99. ISBN 978-0-06-172439-8. LC 2009001402. Gr 7–10—Morgan Abbott is just your normal 18-year-old except for one glaring detail: she's the First Daughter of the United States. Although outsiders might think she's got it all—a hot boyfriend, cool best friend, tricked-out limo, and 24/7 protection—she's actually got her share of problems, too. Konner is pressuring her to go beyond kissing; her mother's presidential duties keep her very busy; and the paparazzi and tabloids have started to take notice of Morgan's sometimes zany behavior. When circumstances arise that would allow her to act as her mother's double so that Mom can go out on a top-secret mission, the teen accepts the challenge. After all, this could make up for all the crazy stuff she's done in the past. Plus, when her new, totally cute, young secret service agent starts getting friendly, who knows what could happen? This is a light and entertaining read for teens who like some politics with their romance.—Traci Glass, Eugene Public Lib rary, OR CHAPMAN, Linda & Steve Cole. Be a Genie in Six Easy Steps. 326p. CIP. HarperCollins. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-125219-8. LC 2009014271. Gr 4–7—This modern-day homage to E. Nesbit's Five Children and It brings humor and gender equality to the original story line. The offspring of a newly blended family, Milly, Jason, Michael, and Jess are adjusting to life in small-town Moreways Meet with ill grace. All of them want to return to London, so when Milly discovers The Genie Handbook and its occupant, Skribble the bookworm, the children are eager to pass quickly through the six challenges involved in becoming a genie. As readers might expect, the wish-granting quickly spills over into chaos, and the children as well as Skribble learn about the true desires of the heart as they settle into their new home. For those who enjoyed Nesbit's charmer, this novel will be a nostalgic walk down familiar paths, and it will direct new readers toward the works of Nesbit and Edward Eager. While the idea of the children training to be genies gives the story a slightly different structure, the outlandish wishes gon e wrong share the same flavor of daring adventure. Milly, especially, with her sweet concern for Skribble's feelings and for the genie ethic, is reminiscent of Nesbit's characterizations. Some elements, especially the conclusion, are predictably saccharine, but even the thinly veiled moral lessons can't detract from the sheer joy of imagining oneself in possession of a magic lamp. Most imaginative readers will want to check out this family-driven fantasy adventure.—Caitlin Augusta, Stratford Library Association, CT CHIMA, Cinda Williams. The Demon King. 512p. Hyperion/Disney. 2009. RTE $17.99. ISBN 978-1-4231-1823-7. LC number unavailable. Gr 7 Up—Han Alister was once a street thief and gang leader, nicknamed Cuffs for the magical silver cuffs he's worn for as long as he can remember. Now that he's reformed, he can't seem to escape from his past, and he spends much of his time hunting in the mountains with his clan friends. When he and his friend Fire Dancer meet a group of young wizards, Han comes into possession of a magical amulet linked to the legendary Demon King, not knowing that it will bring danger to him and his family. Meanwhile, Princess Raisa is soon to turn 16 and be named heir to her mother's throne. She becomes aware of intrigues that surround the queen, who seems to be strongly influenced by their country's High Wizard. Han's and Raisa's adventures and journeys toward understanding themselves run parallel throughout the book, intersecting only when the princess dresses up as a commoner and meets Han briefly. The conclusion leaves both Raisa and Han setting out on new adventures toward a common dest ination, leaving much to be resolved in their futures and in the future of their land. Chima shows a sure hand with details and history, and readers will be drawn into the lives of the two protagonists. Fans of magic, danger, and high fantasy will find a complex and involving world and be left waiting for the next volume in this exciting trilogy.—Beth L. Meister, Milwaukee Jewish Day School, WI CHOYCE, Lesley. Hell's Hotel. 220p. ISBN 978-1-55277-038-2; ISBN 978-1-55277-022-1. LC C2008-904715-X. GUEST, Jacqueline. War Games. 181p. ISBN 978-1-55277-036-8; ISBN 978-1-55277-035-1. LC C2008-904714-1. ea vol: (SideStreets Series). CIP. Orca. 2009. Tr $16.95; pap. $9.95. Gr 8 Up—In Hell's Hotel, Tara's friend Jenn has a troubled home life and spends most nights on the street or with undesirable boyfriends. Tara is her savior, always bailing her out of trouble. Then Tara's parents announce they are separating and, devastated, she ends up spending a night at the hangout for local street kids. It is undeniably the worst night of her life, but it brings her closer to understanding them. Then disaster strikes. The mediocre plot is only mildly interesting, and it pushes the point of the dangers of living on the street a little too hard. Still, it does shine light on an issue that many teens rarely think about. In War Games, Ryan's father is sent to Afghanistan, and Ryan is glad to get out from under his strict military rules. His new freedom gives him more of an opportunity to engage in his favorite pastime: video games. He plays at Cyberknights, a gaming café, and his game of choice is Desert Death. He becomes enamored with the ult imate Desert Death champion, Casey, who involves him with some truly bad people. At the same time he sees the risks that his father is taking in Afghanistan through the emails he receives from him. The novel's quick pace and timely subject matter will keep reluctant readers engaged.—Julianna M. Helt, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA COFFELT, Nancy. Listen. 214p. WestSide. 2009. Tr $16.95. ISBN 978-1-934813-07-2. LC number unavailable. Gr 8 Up—Will, 18, has been on his own ever since his mom died and his older brother, a drug addict responsible for her death, was sent to jail. He tutors Kurt, a 14-year-old who, unbeknownst to him, is similarly troubled. Kurt has been living with his grandmother since he stabbed his mother's abusive boyfriend in self-defense. He wants to find his dad in Minneapolis, and needs money for a bus ticket to get there. When middle-aged schizophrenic Carrie offers to pay him 40 dollars for every stray cat or dog he delivers to her as part of her misguided scheme to "save" mistreated or ignored pets, Kurt jumps at the opportunity. Coffelt aptly weaves together a narrative from these three distinct points of view. The characters' actions lead them to an intense collision after Carrie "saves"/kidnaps an infant and brings him to live in her filthy house. In showing Will's self-doubt regarding his burgeoning relationship with his crush, Claire, and Kurt's anguished flashbacks to abuse at th e hands of his mother's boyfriend, the author displays a deep understanding of the teenage male psyche. Themes of loss and forgiveness add poignancy to the story without ever seeming heavy-handed. This short, action-filled book holds immense appeal for reluctant readers, and the rich characterization of Carrie's cats and dogs may pique the interest of animal lovers.—Jennifer Barnes, Homewood Library, IL COHEN, Tish. Little Black Lies. 320p. Egmont USA. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-60684-033-7; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-1-60684-046-7. LC number unavailable. Gr 7–10—Sara Black enters Boston's elite Anton High as a junior, something practically unheard of and made possible because her OCD-suffering dad is the new janitor. Sara stands out immediately as a top student, eliciting the envy and attention of the school's upper echelon, in particular queen bee Carling Burnack. When Carling assumes that Sara has moved into town from London, England, instead of nearby lower-class Lundon, Sara doesn't correct her. It's just the beginning of the lies she tells as she struggles in her new role as Carling's number one frenemy. As one might expect, Sara's lies catch up with her, and they cause trouble for her father. As her world comes tumbling down, the teen sees the situation for what it is and works on repairing her relationship with her father. While highly readable and well written, the book suffers from a too-predictable plot that has little to say beyond black-and-white moralizing. However, those looking for a compassionate portrayal of a parent in the throes of OCD will find something here. Readers expecting a "Gossip Girl"-esque tale of cattiness will find Carling no competitor for Blair and might be better guided to Sara Shepard's "Pretty Little Liars" series (HarperTeen).—Jennifer Barnes, Homewood Library, IL COLLARD, Sneed B. Double Eagle. 256p. CIP. Peachtree. 2009. Tr $15.95. ISBN 978-1-56145-480-8. LC 2008036746. Gr 4–8—Mike, 13, reluctantly boards a plane from California to Florida to spend the summer with his divorced father, who is a marine biologist. He is told after he lands that they will not be in Pensacola but on Shipwreck Island off the coast of Alabama. He feels stranded and neglected, thinking that the weeks will drag with little to keep him occupied. After a slow beginning, Mike's summer of 1973 becomes more and more exciting when he and a new friend make an unexpected discovery at an old Civil War fort. The boys are just beginning to unravel the mystery surrounding their find when a hurricane threatens and they discover that thieves are after their treasure. Mike's narrative moves quickly with likable and believable characters. The story will have particular appeal to readers with an interest in historical places and artifacts.—Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD COMBRES, Élisabeth. Broken Memory: A Novel of Rwanda. tr. by Shelley Tanaka. 139p. CIP. Groundwood. 2009. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-0-88899-892-7. LC C2009-901409-2. Gr 6–9—When Emma, a Tutsi, was five years old, she hid behind the sofa while soldiers murdered her mother. She was taken in by a Hutu woman, and now, at 14, she faces the demons haunting her. When she hears that the soldiers who took part in the 1994 genocide will be brought to trial at a gacaca court in her hometown, she must decide whether to step forward and testify on behalf of the dead. Emma begins to find her voice and strengthen her opinions as she meets with others in her situation. An epilogue reveals that Emma, now 24, lives in her parents' house and has been able to make peace with her past. Based on interviews with Rwandan refugees, this novel is a testament to the struggles of those who survived these unspeakable atrocities. Though the prose is lyrical and the chapters are short, the subject matter makes the book a challenging read.—Kelly McGorray, Glenbard South High School, Glen Ellyn, IL COMPESTINE, Ying Chang. A Banquet for Hungry Ghosts. illus. by Coleman Polhemus. 224p. CIP. Holt/Christy Ottaviano Bks. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-8208-1. LC 2008050273. Gr 6–9—In this collection of gruesome ghost stories, Compestine takes readers through China's history, from the building of the Great Wall to the modern day. Organized like a traditional Chinese banquet, with each story as a dish, the tales revolve around the spirits of those who died unfairly and prematurely. Most feature murder victims exacting their revenge, usually disposing of their killers. These stories are not only deliciously frightening but also introduce readers to ancient and modern Chinese customs and beliefs. The author postscripts each selection with background about something in the tale such as the resurgence of Buddhist temples, insect fights, or exotic delicacies. Food plays a prominent role in each tale, and Compestine includes a recipe with the back matter for each story. Polhemus's black-and-white atmospheric illustrations add to the spookiness. Not for the fainthearted, these offerings are a step beyond Alvin Schwartz's Scary Stories to Tell in th e Dark (HarperCollins, 1986).—Jennifer Rothschild, Prince George's County Memorial Library System, Oxon Hill, MD COOPER, Michelle. A Brief History of Montmaray. 296p. map. CIP. Knopf/Borzoi. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-375-85864-2; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-375-95864-9. LC 2008049800. Gr 7–10—It's 1936, and 16-year-old Sophie FitzOsborne lives on the edge of poverty in an island castle off the coast of England. With her cousin Veronica; her younger sister, Henry; a dog named Carlos; and her reclusive Uncle John—the mad king of Montmaray—for company, Sophie spends her days helping her cousin and the few remaining servants keep house while documenting her dreams and experiences in her journal. The girls' intellects and fierce determination are put to the test when the Nazis invade their island and quickly turn their state of solitude into a struggle for survival. This book has a bit of everything: romance, betrayal, a haunting, espionage, psychological discord, intimate liaisons, and murder. Although the beginning is heavily laden with the protagonist's accounts of historical events, the mood eventually shifts to an exciting pace illustrating the heroine's adventures and courageous endeavors to preserve her family's bond and royal lineage.&#82 12;Kimberly Monaghan, formerly at Vernon Area Public Library, IL CRANE, Dede. Poster Boy. 214p. CIP. Groundwood. 2009. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-0-88899-855-2. LC C2009-901070-4. Gr 9 Up—At 16, Graydon Fallon has everything he could ask for: a private bedroom in the basement, the freedom to have parties on weeknights, relaxed parents, a funny best friend, and a hot girlfriend. He and his family are caught unaware when his 12-year-old sister, Maggie, is diagnosed with an advanced stage of a rare form of cancer. Doctors can do little for her, but Gray and his mother are determined to help her recover. For better or worse, these events affect all of Gray's relationships and change his outlook on life. Rich with Chuck Norris jokes and contemporary cultural references to TV shows, Google, and MSN Messenger, this novel will lure reluctant readers. Once captivated, they will be touched by Gray's efforts to save his sister and his family's struggle to cope with her death.—Melissa Houlroyd, Brighton Memorial Library, Rochester, NY DANESHVARI, Gitty. School of Fear. illus. by Carrie Gifford. 352p. Little, Brown. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-316-03326-8. LC number unavailable. Gr 4–6—"Large glass lanterns [hung] from rusted old chains." Descriptions like this one set the scene for a secret, yet elite school for eradicating children's fears. Four 12-year-olds are sent there with the hope that they'll overcome fears of bugs, confined spaces, water, and death. When they arrive, they discover that they are the only students in a school run by a seemingly crazy ex-beauty queen. Forced to learn waving and proper pageant smiling for hours on end, the students wonder if they'll ever escape. Of course, they must face their fears in order to get away and bring back help for a servant. The school isn't what it seems, and the villains aren't who they appear to be. The story is hilarious for its over-the-top gloominess. Each chapter begins with the definition of a type of fear, e.g., arachibutyrophobia (the fear of peanut butter sticking to the roof of your mouth). Suggest this one to fans of Lemony Snicket's "A Series of Unfortunate Events" (HarperCollins). —Kelly Roth, Bartow County Public Library, Cartersville, GA DAVIS, Heather. Never Cry Werewolf. 216p. CIP. HarperTeen. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-134923-2. LC 2008051967. Gr 8–10—Sixteen-year-old Shelby knows she is acting out and making some bad choices when it comes to boys and dating, but she never expected her father and "wicked" stepmother to banish her to a "brat camp" for the summer. Luckily for Shelby, she is allowed to choose the artsy Camp Crescent instead of Priscilla's choice of Red Canyon—aka boot camp from hell. Camp turns out not to be a total waste even with the preachy Mr. Winters and singing guitar lady Cynthia. Shelby manages to make some new friends, but the real highlight is the arrival of Austin Bridges III. Not only is he the son of a legendary rock star, but he is also cute, kind, intriguing, and totally mysterious. Shelby is drawn to him and the terrible dark family secret that he is willing to share only with her. How can she turn her back on him, especially with the full moon only a few nights away? Davis weaves together a fast-paced action adventure story with issues of peer pressure, divorce, betrayal, fri endship, acceptance, and, of course, romance. Shelby is fearless and impulsive, but she is also a caring soul who just needs to find her way in a confusing world. This novel has great teen appeal but is not as dark or edgy as others in this genre. It will leave readers wanting more.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY DE LA PEÑA, Matt. We Were Here. 357p. CIP. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73667-1; PLB $20.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90622-7. LC 2008044568. Gr 9 Up—Miguel struggles to forgive himself for a tragic event that changed his life and his family forever. He willingly accepts his one-year sentence to a juvenile detention center and the requirement that he keep a journal. De La Peña uses the conceit of the journal to tell the story in Miguel's words. At the center, Miguel befriends Rondell, a mentally challenged teen prone to violent outbursts, and Mong, a troubled boy with myriad physical and emotional problems. Mong organizes an escape, and with little apparent thought, Miguel and Rondell agree to join him. The boys' convoluted travels take them up and down the California coast and are recorded in Miguel's journal, along with his personal journey of self-discovery. It is frustrating that the salient event, the one that led to Miguel's incarceration, is kept from readers, and most other characters, until the end of the book. Once the truth of what happened is exposed, it is difficult to comprehend the callousness show n to Miguel by other family members; in fact, readers may question why he was imprisoned at all. The premise of juvenile delinquents on the run, camping out, and trying to survive and to find themselves will appeal to teens, but the story is just too drawn out to hold the interest of most of them.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA DENMAN, K. L. Me, Myself and Ike. 200p. CIP. Orca. 2009. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-1-55469-086-2. LC 2009928211. Gr 10 Up—Kit, 17, is a troubled youth who is being led astray by his friend Ike. Just the previous year, he had a circle of friends, a wonderful girlfriend, and a place on the basketball team. Now he hangs out more and more with Ike, coerced into thinking that he should hike to the top of a mountain in Strathcona Park, British Columbia, and bury himself in the snow in order to preserve his body, to be found hundreds if not thousands of years in the future. At times, Kit seems to resent the fact that Ike will not be sacrificing himself while he is encouraging Kit to commit suicide. In the meantime, Kit's parents know something is wrong, but just don't know what has happened to their once easygoing, affable son. Readers will eventually recognize that Ike is not real, but a hallucination caused by the onset of schizophrenia. While the story is about a young man with a mental illness, it is also a well-told, readable mystery, brimming with suspense. An author's note giving details a bout schizophrenia adds an additional level of clarity to the novel's ending.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD DENT, Grace. Posh and Prejudice. 224p. (Diary of a Chav Series). glossary. Little, Brown. Dec. 2009. pap. $7.99. ISBN 978-0-31603-484-5. LC number unavailable. Gr 8–11—Shiraz Bailey Wood is a typical British 16-year-old from a working-class family. She waitresses at Mr. Yolk, proudly wears the gaudy bling her boyfriend buys her, and attempts to study, despite her school's bad reputation. Unfortunately, Shiraz is considered a "chav," which is "a bit like calling someone trailer trash." So when she surprisingly passes her exams and is invited to study advanced subjects, she is met with opposition from all sides. She is now hobnobbing with the smart kids, flirting with posh Joshua, and defending her choices to her boyfriend and mother. (Most readers will be shocked that Shiraz's mother pushes a silly part-time job over a college education.) But even Shiraz is guilty of prejudice as she unfairly labels a classmate a charity case. Regardless, the teen is a likable character with wit and charm, but her family is the true scene-stealer, particularly when her mom recounts how Shiraz tried to sell her younger brother at a school auction. Shiraz's diary is full of British slang, and readers are definitely going to need the glossary in the back.—Kimberly Garnick Giarratano, Rockaway Township Public Library, NJ DIAMAND, Emily. Raiders' Ransom. 352p. CIP. Scholastic/Chicken House. Dec. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-545-14297-7. LC 2008043692. Gr 6–8—In the early 23rd century, much of what used to be eastern England is underwater or marshy, Greater Scotland extends down below London, and England consists of the 10 southernmost counties. Lilly is a fishergirl in a small English village, but when the marsh-dwelling raiders kidnap the Prime Minister's small daughter from Lilly's village, the 13-year-old sails off to get her back, along with her mysterious seacat. Zeph is the tough but conflicted son of the raider chieftain whose tribe stole Lexy. Their entwined fates are complicated by Lilly's theft of an ancient "jewel" that turns out to be a gaming computer from the late 21st century and by the bloody war that breaks out between the raiders and England. Readers will be fascinated by the results of environmental calamity upon civilization—Londoners who managed to escape the Collapse of their city have formed into primitive, Viking-like raiders, folks in southern England have reverted to an 18th-century lifes tyle, and Greater Scotland still has access to advanced technology—not that they're sharing it with anyone else. The plot, although leisurely and sometimes straining credulity, is suspenseful, and both Lilly and Zeph are complex and interesting characters. Unanswered questions point to a sequel. This is an intriguing postapocalyptic adventure with a dash of Dark Ages spice.—Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library DONALDSON, Joan. On Viney's Mountain. 240p. Holiday House. 2009. Tr $16.95. ISBN 978-0-8234-2129-9. LC number unavailable. Gr 7–9—In 1880, in the Cumberland Mountains of Tennessee, Viney Walker, 16, lives on a subsistence farm with her sister and brother. All are accustomed to long days of hard labor, but Viney makes time for her art—weavings that make warm blankets and add beauty to drab mountain cabins. When men from an English utopian settlement begin to tear down the forest to clear land for their new farms and town, Viney is outraged and determined to undermine the settlement. A few tricks, however, cannot stop progress, and the teen despairs of losing not only her way of life, but also her sister to the wiles of an Englishman. Just as she begins to appreciate what the settlement has to offer, and to fall in love with one of the young men who comes to work there, disaster strikes. Based on the life of Dicey Fletcher and the ill-fated Rugby colony, this book offers a glimpse into the lives of women in the mountains during this period. While Viney's disinterest in marriage and family makes her unusual in her time, she is a somewhat drab heroine by today's standards. Offer this novel to fans of historical fiction and light romance who won't be put off by the absence of a happy ending.—Caroline Tesauro, Radford Public Library, VA DONALDSON, Julia. Running on the Cracks. 218p. CIP. Holt. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-9054-3. LC 2008050278. Gr 6–9—Still reeling from the recent death of her parents in a plane crash, Leo, a 15-year-old girl of mixed Chinese and English descent, runs away from an unpleasant living situation and boards a train to Glasgow. Remaining incognito in the city proves to be difficult, but she eventually finds refuge with a kindhearted, mentally ill woman. After seeing Leo's picture in the paper, Finlay, a 13-year-old Goth paperboy, figures out who she is. They become friends as he learns of her circumstances and volunteers to help her locate the Chinese grandparents she's never known. Finding them is imperative, as Leo doesn't want to be forced back to her aunt's home, a dangerous environment with a leering Uncle John. Donaldson's novel, told from the shifting perspectives of Leo, Finlay, and Uncle John, is slow to start, but picks up as Leo's predator uncle appears on the scene to track her down. American readers will find bits of the dialect hard to understand, but the slowly building suspense, strong characterizations, and a narrative that includes information about the Chinese immigrant experience in Scotland and insight into the lives of the mentally ill make the book a worthwhile read.—Shawna Sherman, Hayward Public Library, CA DORFMAN, Joaquin. The Long Wait for Tomorrow. 342p. CIP. Random. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-375-84694-6; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-375-94694-3. LC 2008027273. Gr 8 Up—Patrick, sidekick to star quarterback Kelly, learns that destiny is not immutable when his buddy awakes one morning a different person than the entitled, self-absorbed jock he's always been. Kelly, it seems, has come back through time from his future 40-year-old body to his 18-year-old self in suburban Arizona. He intends to prevent a tragedy caused by his arrogant younger self's bullying a science nerd, but altering his normal behavior upsets the balance around him, especially the fragile equilibrium between his doting cheerleader girlfriend, Jenna, and Patrick, his obsequious shadow. An ambitious novel with a fascinating premise and rife with cinematic violence and sexy people, this story unfortunately relies too heavily upon well-explored stereotypes and clichés, riddling the plot with laughable coincidences and confusing out-of-character moments. Tidbits of creative phrases ("a train let out a nearly extinct plea from miles away") stand out distinctly amid writi ng otherwise characterized by sameness in dialogue and an uninspired narrator's voice.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library DOYLE, Eugenie. According to Kit. 215p. CIP. Boyds Mills/Front St. 2009. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-1-59078-474-7. LC 2009007032. Gr 9 Up—After Kit is slightly injured at school, her mother overreacts and insists on keeping her at home. It's hard not to appreciate Kit's frustration at the situation, and her helplessness at suddenly being stuck on the Vermont family farm. However, this initial, underplayed incident turns out to be the biggest action for most of the book. Kit's life as a homeschooler involves a lot of sitting around daydreaming, interspersed with more sitting around seething about her mother, mixed with lackadaisical studying or helping out with the chores. Kit's main focuses are her ballet classes and her dream of a career as a dancer, which doesn't mesh with her family's financially troubled dairy farm. While Kit's hours of adolescent boredom may be all too realistic, they don't always make for the most exciting reading, and the short, choppy sentences often feel rushed. Things heat up midway through when Kit gets new ballet instructors, and the story eventually careens into action as she goes to an audition in Montreal. Meditative and true to life, According to Kit might appeal to mature readers looking for their niche in the world of adults.—Eliza Langhans, Hatfield Public Library, MA DURST, Sarah Beth. Ice. 308p. CIP. S & S/Margaret K. McElderry Bks. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-8643-0. LC 2009008618. Gr 8 Up—Novels with a fairy tale at their center are ubiquitous, but even in this crowded market, Ice, based on "East of the Sun, West of the Moon," is a standout. Cassie is the daughter of an Arctic scientist and lives in a research station on the ice. Her mother is dead, according to her father, but Cassie remembers a story her grandmother used to tell her about how her mother was the daughter of the North Wind and was stolen away by the trolls. As the story opens, the teen is pursuing a polar bear when it steps into the ice and disappears. Drawn by her feeling that there is something special about the animal, Cassie ventures out after it. The bear is a munaqsri, a keeper of souls for the polar bears. Cassie agrees to be his wife if he will rescue her mother. Although initially fearful, she develops a relationship with Bear based on real love and companionship. All is well until she ignores the prohibition against looking at his face while he is in human form at night. Bear becomes a prisoner of the trolls, and Cassie, now pregnant, begins her quest to travel east of the sun and west of the moon to rescue her beloved. This is a unique and cleverly spun romance for an older readership than Edith Pattou's East (Harcourt, 2003), with a splendidly courageous and smart heroine. Durst flawlessly weaves together romance, adventure, and a modern sensibility to create a highly inventive and suspenseful story of a girl on the cusp of adulthood. Readers will take Cassie and Bear to their hearts.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City ELKELES, Simone. How to Ruin Your Boyfriend's Reputation. 264p. Flux. 2009. pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-0-7387-1897-8. LC number unavailable. Gr 8 Up—Amy Nelson-Barak, 17, is back in this third installment about a Jewish-American teen learning how to live and love in peace. She signs up for 10 days of training with the Israel Defense Force as soon as she finds out that her long-distance boyfriend, Avi, will be on base as well. But things turn out to be different from what she'd hoped for. She sleeps in a bunk bed underneath coils that look ready to give way, she's being worked to the bone, and the bathrooms are hardly up to her standards. Worst of all, Avi doesn't seem remotely thrilled that she's there. Is something going on between him and a fellow soldier? Strong, beautiful, and able to be with Avi all the time, Liron is everything Amy wants to be. Even though the plot is predictable, readers can't help but get drawn in by Amy's fun way of telling her story, and they learn a lot about Israeli teens' mandatory military service. Elkeles catches new readers up to speed in no time. A great book for libraries that have well-used realistic fiction sections and a must where the first two titles are popular.—Traci Glass, Eugene Public Library, OR ELLIOTT, Patricia. The Pale Assassin. 336p. chron. Holiday House. 2009. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-0-8234-2250-0. LC number unavailable. Gr 7–10—The French Revolution forces spoiled Eugénie out of her privileged, narrow existence and into the larger world: hiding in decrepit houses, being hungry, and encountering starving peasants. Betrothed by her guardian to "Le Fantôme," the "richest man in Paris," who harbors a grudge against her family, Eugénie attempts to escape both him and increasingly dangerous France as her 16th birthday and wedding day approach. Her flight, while somewhat exciting to read about, is ultimately due to good fortune and the inexplicable help of others, and not the ill-conceived plan of her royalist brother and his compatriot. The strength of the novel is that it captures the mindset of a girl who has never considered the needs of others and the shock and fear the Revolution caused in the aristocracy. As a heroine, Eugénie isn't bad, just self-centered. While her brother stays behind in a country where his life is in danger, she thinks about her newest love interes t. Other than being an unattractive lurker with cold hands, the "pale assassin" (the fiancé) isn't particularly scary. Purchase where historical fiction is popular.—Caroline Tesauro, Radford Public Library, VA FAHY, Thomas. Sleepless. 209p. CIP. S & S. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-5901-4. LC 2008007310. Gr 9 Up—Something is not quite right in the small town of Sea Cliff. An evil force is at work, leaving tragedy and death in its wake for a group of students from Saint Opportuna High School. The story centers around Emma, who recently moved to New York from the South and is grieving over the recent death of her mother, and Jake, a charismatic rebel who serves as car mechanic and pot dealer to his classmates. After returning from a school trip to New Orleans to rebuild homes destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, Emma, Jake, and the other students who participated band together into a "secret society," led by the faculty advisor, Dr. Beecher, sworn to keep quiet about what really happened down there. All of the teens are behaving erratically and suffering from horrific nightmares with bouts of sleepwalking. Then classmates begin to turn up dead. Fahy grabs readers right from the opening pages and uses a series of flashbacks to reveal earlier events in the story. The plot is full of susp ense mixed with voodoo, vengeance, and murder, creating a chilling tale. Unfortunately, the ending is disappointing, as everything wraps up too quickly in the last few pages.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY FERGUSON, Alane. The Dying Breath: A Forensic Mystery. 234p. CIP. Viking. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-670-06314-7. LC 2009002170. Gr 9 Up—Cameryn Mahoney is startled when she finds a note addressed to her at a crime scene. The letter was left by Kyle O'Neil, a psychopath running from the law. The 17-year-old is the assistant to the coroner, but she is removed from the case since it now involves her. Unable to return to a normal life while O'Neil remains at large, Cameryn must put an end to his reign of terror. The protagonist is an interesting character. She is fascinated by forensics and impresses the medical examiner, who agrees to mentor her even though she's a teenager. She can be childish when she's upset and has a tendency to rush headlong into dangerous situations. The descriptions of the autopsies are not for the squeamish. Unfortunately, while this installment in the series is fast paced, it is predictable and shallow.—Lori A. Guenthner, Baltimore County Public Library, Randallstown, MD FINE, Susan. Initiation. 288p. Flux. 2009. pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-0-7387-1466-0. LC number unavailable. Gr 9 Up—Mauricio Londoño, the child of immigrant parents, didn't know what he was getting into when he entered the hallowed halls of St. Stephen's, the premier all-boys school in New York City, as a freshman. Though shy and uncertain in the classroom, he's befriended by nerdy Alexander and wealthy, brilliant Henry, who help him navigate his new, confusing environs. But it's Zimmer, the guy who comes into class alternately hungover and decked out in bling, who confuses Mauricio the most. Seemingly despised by everyone at school, Zimmer's FaceSpace friend list nevertheless numbers in the hundreds and includes the very people who hate him. It's when a case of cyberbullying meets the moneyed that things get messy, and Mauricio finds himself caught in the middle, struggling to understand whom to trust. A more literary counterpart to Cecily von Ziegesar's "Gossip Girl" series (Little, Brown), Initiation pays careful attention to the greater spectrum of students attending p restigious prep schools without playing to stereotypes. A supporting cast of female characters adds depth to the story; there's Henry's beautiful twin sister who piques Mauricio's interest in spite of their differences and a tough but inspiring English teacher. With a pitch-perfect teenage voice, alternating between poignant realizations and descriptions of bodily functions, Fine has crafted a book that has wide appeal for both genders.—Jennifer Barnes, Homewood Library, IL FINK, Mark. The Summer I Got a Life. 196p. WestSide. 2009. Tr $16.95. ISBN 978-1-934813-12-6. LC number unavailable. Gr 8 Up—Andy is pumped that his freshman year is over and his vacation is about to begin. Then his dad's promotion changes everything. Instead of Hawaii, Andy is spending two weeks on a farm in Wisconsin with his somewhat odd, but well-meaning, aunt and uncle. Once there, though, he finds that things aren't so bad, particularly when he spots "the most incredible-looking girl he has ever seen." After a disastrous first impression (Andy runs into a lamppost and drops ice cream all over himself), they meet and Andy discovers that an accident at age four has left Laura confined to a wheelchair. Her indomitable spirit and optimism captivate him, and for the next two weeks they are inseparable. This is an engaging novel filled with life lessons, a little romance, humor, sports, and fraternal love. Laura's disability is dealt with matter-of-factly and doesn't dominate the story or her relationship with Andy. The characters are fresh and memorable, the teen voices are authentic, and the plot moves along at a good pace.—Kelley Siegrist, Farmington Community Library, MI FITZPATRICK, Becca. Hush, Hush. 391p. CIP. S & S. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-8941-7. LC 2009012936. Gr 9 Up—High school sophomore Nora Grey, a dedicated student striving for a college scholarship, lives with her widowed mother in a country farmhouse outside Portland, ME. When Patch, her new biology partner, is suddenly thrust into her life, Nora is both attracted to his charm and put off by his inexplicable awareness of her thoughts. Eventually, she learns that he is a fallen angel who wants to become human. She is susceptible to his control, but other forces are at work as well, and Nora finds herself caught in the middle of dangerous situations and unexplainable events. The premise of Hush, Hush—that fallen angels exist and interact with humans on Earth—is worthy of contemplation and appealing to teens. But stories with such supernatural themes require that the details of day-to-day life be realistic and believable. Unfortunately, most readers won't be convinced that a mother whose husband has recently been murdered would leave her daughter alone overnight in their home far from the nearest neighbor or that a school counselor would be replaced by someone whose credentials were not checked. While teens may enjoy the scenes of tension and terror, most will be disappointed by characters without dimension and the illogical sequence of events.—Sue Lloyd, Franklin High School, Livonia, MI FRANCIS, Melissa. Bite Me! 296p. CIP. HarperTeen. 2009. pap. $8.99. ISBN 978-0-06-143098-5. LC 2009001403. Gr 9 Up—Mississippi teen AJ works hard to ignore her vampire side, focusing on fitting in at school by getting good grades and staying out of trouble. Even so, the 17-year-old's problems are beginning to pile up. Her boyfriend has just become her stepbrother, and though she and Ryan are still strongly attracted to one another, their parents have broken them up. Worse, she may have created a truly evil vampire during an ill-advised night of drinking. In order to protect herself and her family, she must explore her vampire heritage while discerning who among her friends and acquaintances she can trust. Though the premise is promising, this chick lit/vampire crossover doesn't quite succeed at either genre. Underdeveloped characters and side plots distract from the story, and the dialogue feels forced. However, diehard vampire fans may forgive these flaws and enjoy this breezy read.—Hayden Bass, Seattle Public Library, WA FRANCO, Betsy. Metamorphosis: Junior Year. illus. by Tom Franco. 114p. CIP. Candlewick. 2009. RTE $16.99. ISBN 978-0-7636-3765-1. LC 2009013859. Gr 9 Up—Franco pays homage to the poet Ovid's retelling of Roman myths. Her Ovid, a high school junior, is a budding, brooding artist, still reeling from the departure of his meth-addicted sister. His formerly permissive parents are smothering him with concern and attention as they desperately try to ensure that he does not travel the same road as Thena. Ovid writes poems about and draws his high school as Roman myths with students and adults playing the parts of Pluto, Midas, Athena, Ceres, Proserpina, and a host of others. Only readers well versed in mythology will catch all of the references. Mere mortals will need a handy reference source to get the full impact. The pen-and-ink drawings are interesting but sometimes border on the bizarre and don't all fit smoothly into the story. Regardless of readers' levels of knowledge of Roman religion, the story of a teen feeling imprisoned by overly concerned parents and abandoned by an addicted sibling will resonate with many young ad ults.—Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School, CA FUKUI, Isamu. Truancy Origins. 384p. Tor. 2009. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-0-7653-2262-3. LC number unavailable. Gr 8 Up—Zen and Umasi, the teenaged adopted sons of the mayor of Education City, rebel against the rigid strictures of society and the educational system and join the outcasts on the streets. But they have very different values and goals. Zen is determined to destroy the school and the City and establish himself as leader of the Truancy, a company of teens who have been expelled, while his gentler, more humane brother wants to protect the common people of the City, even if it means destroying his own brother. Fukui's second novel reads like a futuristic Lord of the Flies with gangs of boys running wild through an urban jungle battling one another and the Enforcers (for those of us who lived through the 1960s, the word "pigs" springs immediately to mind). Fukui's dramatic and compelling dystopian world will initially capture the imaginations of teens who are disenchanted with school and home and the limitations imposed upon them by adults. Unfortunately, the overwrought wr iting style, stock characters, underdeveloped plot, and nonstop mayhem are unlikely to hold their interest.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK GARCIA, Kami & Margaret Stohl. Beautiful Creatures. 640p. Little, Brown. Dec. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-316-04267-3. LC number unavailable. Gr 7 Up—Ethan Wate, a high school sophomore, plans to escape his small Southern town as soon as he can. Life has been difficult since his mother died; his father, a writer, has withdrawn into his study. Then Lena Duchannes arrives, and this strange new girl is the very one who has been occupying his dreams. She and her kin are Casters, beings who have supernatural powers. Getting to know her exposes Ethan to time travel, mortal danger, and love. The teens can hardly bear to be apart, but Lena's 16th birthday, when she will be Claimed for dark or light, is only 6 months away. To save her, they fight supernatural powers and the prejudice of closed-minded people. Yet, good and evil are not clearly delineated, nor are they necessarily at odds. In the Gothic tradition of Anne Rice, the authors evoke a dark, supernatural world in a seemingly simple town obsessed with Civil War reenactments and deeply loyal to its Confederate past. The intensity of Ethan and Lena's need to be together is palpable, the detailed descriptions create a vivid, authentic world, and the allure of this story is the power of love. The satisfying conclusion is sure to lead directly into a sequel. Give this to fans of Stephenie Meyer's Twilight (Little, Brown, 2005) or HBO's "True Blood" series and they will devour all 600-plus pages of this teen Gothic romance.—Amy J. Chow, The Brearley School, New York City GEAR, Kathleen O'Neal & W. Michael Gear. Children of the Dawnland. 304p. map. Tor. 2009. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-0-7653-2019-3. LC number unavailable. Gr 4–8—The Gears, known for their adult titles, have utilized their archaeological knowledge to write their first book for children. This story imagines what life might have been like for the Clovis people who lived in what is now the northeastern United States and eastern Canada at the end of the Ice Age. Twig is the daughter of the village dreamer, a shamanlike person whose visions are used as a means to guide the tribe. She has been having visions that tell of a great ball of fire in the sky, and is convinced that her people must move west to avoid annihilation. Twig's mother, out of fear for her, has tried to keep her from exploring her visions, but the 12-year-old feels compelled to train as a dreamer in order to save her people. Initially it might be challenging for today's youth to wade through the anthropomorphized names given to natural phenomena such as Wind Woman, Moon Maiden, and Star People; the heavy emphasis on the power given to dreams and visions; and the slow story line for the first half of the book. However, the plot soon quickens. Twig and her friend Greyhawk set off on a quest to find Cobia, a dreamer with extraordinary power, and are chased by the violent and murderous Thornback Raiders. The world really does seem to be close to destruction when Twig's vision comes true. Even the most selective children won't be able to read fast enough at this point, if they get this far.—Ragan O'Malley, Saint Ann's School, Brooklyn, NY GOLDS, Cassandra. The Museum of Mary Child. 329p. Kane/Miller. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-935279-13-6. LC 2009922719. Gr 7–10—Heloise lives in an austere household with her godmother, always watched, always working, never wasting time. Her life is regimented into segments of work, study, and constitutionals. This is all that the girl knows, until she finds a doll under a loose floorboard in her bedroom. Suddenly her world changes as she discovers what it means to love, but the child knows to keep the toy hidden. When her godmother learns of its existence, she takes her to the Museum of Mary Child to demonstrate the folly and danger of keeping dolls. To the girl's horror, she discovers the place is a shrine to the dolls that a woman named Mary Child had once kept, defaced, and hidden as she slowly went mad. Overcome, Heloise runs away and is taken in by kind Old Mother who runs an all-female choir. There the girl begins to develop loving friendships. Her world is again turned upside down when she is taken by a flock of birds to meet a prisoner in the jail during the dark of night. After se veral visits to the prison, the two share their stories and discover a deep and intriguing connection between them and Mary Child. This story reads like a fairy tale with elements of mystery, romance, Gothic horror, fantasy, and all parts terrific. The atmosphere is wonderfully rendered, and the book quietly but dramatically draws readers to its conclusion.—Jessica Miller, New Britain Public Library, CT HADDIX, Margaret Peterson. Claim to Fame. 272p. CIP. S & S. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-3917-7. LC 2008040792. Gr 7–9—Lindsay Scott, 16, lives a completely secluded life after spending her early years in the spotlight as a child star. Her fame, coupled with an ability to hear all that is said about her by everyone throughout the world, take its toll, and, at age 11, she suffered a nervous breakdown. Her distant father moved her to a new home in Illinois, which they shared until his untimely death. Now, she is alone in the house, but she is not alone. Despite her best efforts to keep herself and her ability secret, people enter her world. Lindsay views them as threats, but as the story progresses she finds them to be friends, a relationship new to her as she is used to people taking advantage of her. Lindsay can no longer escape from people, any more than she can escape from the voices she hears. She starts to absorb the situations people are facing when she hears them, changing the context and the power their voices have over her. Lindsay's transformation, especially her tranquil, strong, take-on-the-world-on-her-own-terms state at the end, is a bit far-fetched and too quickly realized. However, teens will like the brush with fame and her unique gift and will relate to her feelings of isolation and the need for others' help to spur on the maturation necessary to realize that one isn't always the center of the world; that others need our care.—Tracy Weiskind, Chicago Public Library HAYCAK, Cara. Living on Impulse. 292p. Dutton. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-525-42137-5. LC number unavailable. Gr 9–11—Tenth-grader Mia Morrow chases thrills. She shoplifts, enjoying the rush, the anticipation, and the eventual steal. But things go wrong in her favorite department store. The new security system catches her on camera taking a pricey sandal. Instead of rescuing Mia, her mother makes her find a job to pay back the store. Work helps to stabilize Mia, even when things in her life start to go awful, and she decides that a change is in order. She will turn herself around instead of being a loser. While Impulse has a great message—be true to yourself and your potential, and never give up—there is very little that is redeeming about Mia for most of the book. While she does stop her thievery, she is still impulsive and a serial liar until nearly page 200. The only consistently nice thing about Mia is her relationship with her grandfather.—Melyssa Malinowski, Kenwood High School, Baltimore, MD HEARN, Julie. Hazel. 400p. CIP. S & S/Atheneum. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-2504-0. LC 2008053961. Gr 7–10—In 1913 London, Hazel Mull-Dare, 13, leads a sheltered life, attending the Kensington School for the Daughters of Gentlemen and being doted on by her overprotective father. Despite her mother's somewhat unusual, single-minded devotion to her work at the Battersea shelter for dogs, Hazel has a conventional and financially secure life. All of this changes when she and her father, enjoying an afternoon at the races, witness the horrifying sight of a suffragette flinging herself into the path of a horse to draw attention to her cause. An additional shock for Hazel is her father's "breakdown," which sends him to a rest home to recover while Hazel's family and friends protect her from the open secret that he attempted to hang himself. With some of these same friends, including a sophisticated, daring American classmate, Hazel helps stage a "suffrage action" at Madame Tussauds. The resulting uproar gets her into so much trouble that she is whisked away to her grandparents ' Caribbean plantation, where she slowly learns of a long-concealed family secret. Despite a few scattered anachronistic expressions that jar readers right out of 1913 and into the 21st century, this novel has an absorbing plot and a strong female protagonist. Readers of Hearn's Ivy (S & S, 2008) will be happy to recognize Hazel's mother as the heroine, now grown up, of that book.—Ginny Gustin, Sonoma County Library System, Santa Rosa, CA HEMINGWAY, Edith M. Road to Tater Hill. 213p. map. CIP. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73677-0; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90627-2. LC 2008024906. Gr 5–8—Annie, almost 10, and her pregnant mother are spending the summer of 1963 with Annie's grandparents on their North Carolina farm. Then the long-awaited baby is born prematurely and dies the following day. Annie is devastated and doesn't know how to deal with her grief. Her Air Force father is currently stationed in Germany, and her mother sinks into a deep depression and withdraws from the family. Avoiding the house, Annie often explores the nearby woods where she meets an elderly woman who becomes her friend and confidant. Miss Eliza is living in a shack that belongs to an individual who, according to local legend, was sent to prison years earlier for murdering her husband. Before long, Miss Eliza shares the story of her past with Annie, who continues their friendship despite the community's negative attitudes. Gradually, with the help of Miss Eliza and her supportive grandparents, Annie begins to accept her sister's death, but it takes Annie's near-death experienc e with a swarm of yellow jackets to pull her mother back to reality. The characters and setting are finely drawn and the author has an acute sense of how time seems to pass more slowly for children than adults. The love of family members for one another is heartwarming. A well-written and enjoyable novel.—Nancy P. Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC HIATT, Shelby. Panama. 250p. Houghton. 2009. Tr $16. ISBN 978-0-547-19600-8. LC number unavailable. Gr 9 Up—Despite its promising setting—Panama at the dawn of the 20th century, during the construction and opening of the historic canal—this first novel is unexceptional. The teenage protagonist (who, inexplicably, remains nameless) moves with her straight-laced parents from Dayton, OH, to the Zone, where they live with the families of other workers in a tropical replica of American society. The lush, sultry atmosphere, coupled with her desire for excitement, leads the girl into uncharted territory: lust, intimacy, and sex with a Spanish canal laborer. Federico represents everything her family is not: passionate, rebellious, socialist. Their secret affair takes up most of the book, until it fizzles out somewhat anticlimactically with the completion of the project and the girl's subsequent move back to the U.S. Discussions of social inequity, in the context of the canal's impact on the indigenous people of Panama and treatment of the international laborers, push the p rotagonist toward a less-sheltered worldview in something resembling character development and give readers something to think about. However, these moments are ultimately eclipsed by the doomed and somewhat drawn-out romance. The first-person narrative provides glimpses into the girl's feelings and frustrations, but not enough to make teens feel truly invested.—Emma Burkhart, Springside School, Philadelphia, PA HOWE, Norma. Angel in Vegas. 256p. Candlewick. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-7636-3985-3. LC 2008028758. Gr 7 Up—Noah Sark comes to in an all-night donut shop bathroom in Las Vegas with no idea who or where he is. He only knows that he has a mission and that the tools he needs are in his backpack. Noah is a guardian angel and this is standard protocol. As he works out who he is here to protect, he fills readers in on what it takes to be an angel and corrects the rampant misinformation on Earth about his kind—such as the difference between seraphim and cherubim. Noah is eager to succeed as his last mission, to protect Princess Diana, was a complete failure. Turns out the angels in charge have a sense of humor and Noah's newest charge is a dead ringer for the dead princess. Can Noah protect her while battling the raging hormones of the teenage boy's body he is currently working out of? Can he protect her while distracted by the glitz of Las Vegas? The author strives for comedy, but Noah's angst and asides grow wearisome. A. M. Jenkins's Repossessed (HarperTeen, 2007) is a better book with a similar concept. Purchase where Norma Howe's "Blue Avenger" series (Holt) is popular.—Caroline Tesauro, Radford Public Library, VA HUNTLEY, Amy. The Everafter. 244p. CIP. HarperCollins/Balzer & Bray. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-177679-3; PLB $17.89. ISBN 978-0-06-177680-9. LC 2008046149. Gr 8 Up—Seventeen-year-old Madison Stanton is dead. When she awakes in a vast expanse of nothingness, she realizes that she doesn't remember her past life, much less how she died. As she explores her surroundings, she finds glowing items scattered about her, such as a bracelet, a pair of socks, keys, and a sweatshirt. When she imagines putting the shirt on her nonexistent body, she's brought back to a moment in her former life. From this experience she learns that every object around her is something that she lost while she was alive, and that using it will bring her spirit back to the moment in which it went missing. Armed with this knowledge, she attempts to discover how she died. With some help from the spirits of her boyfriend Gabe and her ex-friend Tammy, Madison learns the shattering truth of her demise. This fresh take on a teen's journey of self-exploration is a compelling and highly enjoyable tale. Huntley expertly combines a coming-of-age story with a supernatural myst ery that keeps readers engrossed until the climactic ending. This touching story will appeal to those looking for a ghost story, romance, or family drama.—Laura Amos, Newport News Public Library, VA JONES, Jenny B. So Not Happening. Bk. 1. 336p. (The Charmed Life Series). Thomas Nelson. 2009. pap. $12.99. ISBN 978-1-59554-541-1. LC number unavailable. Gr 6–9—Isabella Kirkwood is a popular, privileged Manhattan socialite who is in for a big awakening when her mother remarries, and the teen is forced to move to Oklahoma farm country. Shortly after starting at her new school, she posts a blog on her former New York private academy's Web site insulting everything and everyone in her new town. Almost immediately, her new classmates find out about it, and Isabella becomes a social pariah. The series is labeled Christian fiction, but other than scattered references to prayers and church attendance, there is little in the story to indicate any kind of spiritual awakening or growth on the part of the main character. In addition, a number of situations stretch the bounds of plausibility, such as when Isabella accepts a reporting assignment requiring her to sit for hours in a Dumpster in order to "investigate" the school's lack of recycling. Her stepfather is secretly training to be a pro-wrestler, and one of her classmates attemp ts to burn down her house while she is babysitting her stepbrother, and later holds her at gunpoint. Although much of the story is predictable, there are also some genuinely humorous moments mixed in. This is an additional purchase for libraries seeking chick-lit series that are free of sexual content and coarse language.—Jessica Marie, Renton Public Library, WA JONES, Patrick. The Tear Collector. 263p. CIP. Walker. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8027-8710-1. LC 2008055868. Gr 8–10—Beautiful and popular Cassandra is always available for anyone in need of a peer counselor at school, a volunteer in the hospital, or a sympathetic ear at church. She is ready to console and comfort those with a multitude of problems, from broken hearts to the death of a family member. But she doesn't do these things to be nice; she does them because her life depends on it. Cassandra has descended from a long line of grief vampires who need tears instead of blood to survive. She is expected to collect tears and produce the next generation for her family's survival, but recently Cassandra has become disillusioned with her life. She has made meaningful friendships, has allowed herself to feel, and, most importantly, has fallen in love. Jones presents a compelling story that redefines the term "vampire." Cassandra is a complex character who readers will identify with as she struggles to understand who she really is, where her loyalties lie, and how to take control of her own destiny. Those looking for a new spin on the vampire story should find this one satisfying.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY KATCHER, Brian. Almost Perfect. 360p. CIP. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73664-0; PLB $20.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90620-3. LC 2008037659. Gr 8 Up—A small-town Missouri boy's world is rocked when he falls for the new girl at school, and she eventually confesses that she is a biological male. Logan's world is small, as is his mind at first, but throughout the book he grows to accept and love Sage for who—not what—she is. This remarkable book takes a hard look at the difficulties and pain experienced by young male-to-female transsexuals from an easily relatable perspective, as Julie Ann Peters did in Luna (Little, Brown, 2004). Logan is a conservative 18-year-old Everyman whose generic voice isn't—and doesn't need to be—anything special; although readers follow his growth, it is Sage's story that is truly important. A remarkably "clean" book dealing with sexuality and identity, this is neither preachy nor didactic while directly challenging prejudice and intolerance. With realistic characters and situations, it is a first purchase for all high school collections, and could easily be giv en to middle school readers who are undaunted by its length.—Rhona Campbell, Washington, DC Public Library KEHOE, Tim. The Unusual Mind of Vincent Shadow. illus. by Guy Francis & Mike Wohnoutka. 185p. Little, Brown. 2009. Tr $14.99. ISBN 978-0-316-05665-6. LC number unavailable. Gr 4–6—Eleven-year-old Vincent Shadow has a gift so unusual and problematic that he's always had to hide it. Much like his idol, eccentric inventor Nikola Tesla, his ideas come to him in the form of blinding, fully formed, and intricately detailed visions. Unlike Tesla's, Vincent's visions are all of fantastic toys: windless kites, everlasting squirt guns, and 3-D ink, among them. Being a boy genius was easy when Vincent's supportive mom helped him build a secret home laboratory, but following her death and his father's remarriage, things change. The family is about to move from New York to Minnesota, and Vincent's inspiration level is fading fast. Just as both his genius and morale seem to be bottoming out, he learns of a promising toy-invention contest sponsored by legendary toymaker Howard G. Whiz. If Vincent wins it, he'll earn an apprenticeship back in New York—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to utilize his gift. As the contest nears, renewed inspiration comes from newly discovered Tesla artifacts and the surprising support of his stepsister. The question is, can Vincent overcome the last-minute sabotage by a rival in time to realize his dream? This is a solid, whimsically illustrated writing debut from a real-life toy inventor. It begs for a quick follow-up.—Jeffrey Hastings, Highlander Way Middle School, Howell, MI KEHRET, Peg. Runaway Twin. 197p. CIP. Dutton. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-525-42177-1. LC 2008048974. Gr 5–7—Sunny Skyland has missed her twin sister ever since they were separated at age three after their mother and grandmother were killed in an automobile accident. Sunny has kept her memories of Starr alive over the past decade and in seven foster homes. Then, the discovery of a canvas bag containing $800, with no claimant, spurs Sunny to travel from Nebraska to her old neighborhood in Enumclaw, WA. Sunny is an experienced runaway who plans carefully and tells no one. She boards a bus for the first leg of her journey but then complicates her life by adopting a stray dog. Her trip is thwarted by a group of teenage boys, and she survives a tornado. She does reach her destination, but not with the expected ending. At times the plot twists, although possible, are improbable. Nonetheless, Sunny is a compelling and resourceful character whose adventures will keep readers turning the pages to see how things turn out.—Kathryn Kosiorek, formerly at Cuyahoga County Public Library, Brooklyn, OH KIZER, Amber. Meridian. 305p. CIP. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73668-8; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90621-0. LC 2008035666. Gr 7–10—Meridian's parents try to give her a normal childhood in spite of the strange attraction she holds for the dead and dying animals that appear in her bed nearly every morning. On her 16th birthday, a horrific traffic accident occurs right in front of her, causing her terrible pain even though she is uninjured. Her parents realize that the time has come to tell Meridian what she truly is: a Fenestra. Within hours she is on a bus heading to Revelation, CO, and her Auntie. She learns that a Fenestra is a being capable of opening windows into the afterlife for the dying. With the help of Great-aunt Merry, also a Fenestra, and Tens, her Protector, Meridian comes gradually, though reluctantly, to understand her powers and her place in the eternal struggle between the forces of light and darkness for the souls of humankind. The author brings a fresh voice to the realm of teen paranormal romantic fiction. Although the narrative stumbles occasionally, and the ending is hurri ed, the characters are compelling and the themes of good and evil, life and death will keep readers engaged.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK KLEIN, Lisa. Lady Macbeth's Daughter. 320p. Bloomsbury. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-59990-347-7. LC number unavailable. Gr 8 Up—This reworking of Macbeth is told in alternating points of view by Albia, Macbeth's daughter, and Grelach, her mother and Macbeth's wife. Because Albia is born with a crippled foot, Macbeth orders that she be killed. Grelach's servant rescues her, and she is raised by Rhuven's sisters. Albia grows up ignorant of her true heritage, believing herself to be Geillis's daughter. She realizes that she has second sight, and she begins to foresee terrifying, bloody events that are to come. After Macbeth murders King Duncan, Geillis sends her to be fostered by Banquo and his family. As the Scottish kingdom falls into even greater disorder under Macbeth's tyranny, Albia finds out the truth about her birth, and she must decide if she should use her gifts to overthrow her father and help bring order to the realm once again. A number of sections of the book are based directly on scenes from the play. This is a strong feminist reenvisioning of the original that raises issues ab out the treatment and social positions of women at the time. Grelach, Lady Macbeth, is far more sympathetic than in Shakespeare's version, and Albia is a compelling character who fights for the good of her country and refuses to allow anyone to use her as a political pawn. Klein has gone to historical sources predating Shakespeare's primary source, Holinshed's Chronicles, and has restored some of the history Shakespeare changed, most notably by including the character of Luoch, Grelach's son by her first husband. A great choice for teen book groups.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ KOLOSOV, Jacqueline. A Sweet Disorder. 418p. Hyperion/Disney. 2009. RTE $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4231-1245-7. LC number unavailable. Gr 7 Up—Life for Miranda, though not necessarily luxurious, has always been happy. With her father's death abroad, however, she quickly learns that her happiness is of little concern to the adults who control her life. Because there is no money for her dowry, her marriage to Henry Raleigh is called off, and she is sent to live with the parsimonious Countess Turbury far away from her family. The 16-year-old feels a glimmer of hope for something better when the Countess is asked to bring her to Queen Elizabeth I's court. There she befriends several of the other maidens with whom she lives, but petty jealousies and competitiveness over who gets to marry which man threaten her future at court. Miranda, a talented seamstress, desperately hopes that the Queen will not force her to marry the dodgy old man Countess Turbury has chosen for her. Her only hope lies in gaining the monarch's favor, which she hopes to do by faithfully replicating Anne Boleyn's coronation gown so that Queen Eli zabeth can wear it during a celebration of her mother's coronation month. This complex novel, similar in theme to Suzanne Crowley's The Stolen One (HarperCollins, 2009), is written with great style and is full of period details. The swift conclusion is its only unsatisfying element.—Cheri Dobbs, Detroit Country Day Middle School, Beverly Hills, MI KWASNEY, Michelle D. Blue Plate Special. 366p. CIP. Chronicle. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8118-6780-1. LC 2009005322. Gr 10 Up—Three generations are portrayed in this compelling novel about complicated relationships between mothers and daughters. Overweight Madeline, growing up in the 1970s, has taken care of her alcoholic mother for as long as she can remember. Food is her crutch, until she meets Tad, who changes her life. But a tragic accident leaves her pregnant and alone. Desiree, growing up in the 1990s, tells her story in free verse. Her mother's boyfriend rapes her in the backseat of his truck. After a falling out with her mother, the pregnant teen runs away. Ariel's story begins in 2009. Her father is in jail; she lives with her workaholic mother who offers little guidance, allowing Ariel to make her own decisions. But, as her relationship with her boyfriend becomes more troubling, Ariel realizes just how much she misses and needs her mother's support. As the stories develop, readers begin to see clues as to the relationships among the teens. Of the three stories, Ariel's is the weakest compared to the palpable emotions conveyed in Madeline's and Desiree's stories. But, it's Ariel's insight ("We all inherit someone's leftovers") that gets to the crux of the book. Life lessons abound in this grim look at how decisions can have lasting effects. Short, alternating chapters among the teens and authentic voices make this a good choice for reluctant readers.—Kelley Siegrist, Farmington Community Library, MI LACOUR, Nina. Hold Still. illus. by Mia Nolting. 229p. Dutton. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-525-42155-9. LC number unavailable. Gr 10 Up—After losing her best friend, Ingrid, to suicide, Caitlin is completely immobilized. Unable to function, and refusing to visit a therapist, she begins the long journey to wellness alone. During this year of heart-wrenching, raw emotion, Caitlin finds Ingrid's journal, which not only reveals her descent into irreversible depression, but also serves as Caitlin's vehicle for renewed hope in the future. The book is written with honesty, revealing one's pain after the loss of a loved one. Caitlin learns, with the help of new friends and her parents, that there is life after Ingrid.—Sharon Morrison, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Durant, OK LAKE, Nick. Blood Ninja. 384p. S & S. Dec. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-8627-0. LC number unavailable. Gr 8 Up—Taro wants to be a samurai, but as this story opens, ninjas attack his house and decapitate his father, and he is run through with a ninja sword. All is not lost—he is saved by a good ninja who had to bite him and turn him vampire. Yes, that's right; all the ninjas are vampires. This addition to the dead and undead outpouring is cleverly set in the 16th century at the height of the warring daimyos of the Tokugawa period in Japan. The author makes a good argument for the logic of ninjas being vampires—they only come out at night, they move with stealthlike speed, and they seem to be invincible. In this case, they are vital in determining who will be eventual Shogun as well. Taro and his friend Haro are taken on an adventure with the good ninja, Shusaku, where they learn of and must thwart a plot to have Taro killed because of his true identity. The female characters take a backseat to the nonstop action, and the gruesome details of all the killings and the coo l weaponry will mark this as a great "guy book" to counter all the female frenzy around Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight" series (Little, Brown).—Jake Pettit, Thompson Valley High School, Loveland, CO LALICKI, Tom. Frame-up on the Bowery: A Houdini & Nate Mystery. illus. by Carlyn Beccia. 203p. CIP. Farrar. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-374-39930-6. LC 2008045607. Gr 4–7—Twelve-year-old Nate Fuller returns to solve another mystery alongside his famous mentor, Harry Houdini. In 1911 Manhattan, a prominent stockbroker is the victim of a gruesome murder. Nate is shocked when his good friend Ace, who works for Houdini, is arrested as the "Fifth Avenue Slasher." Both Nate and Houdini are sure that Ace has been framed, but the District Attorney, up for re-election and wanting to wrap up the case, is unwilling to see beyond the incriminating evidence. Nate and Houdini enter the seamy Bowery district to track down the clues that will exonerate their friend. Meanwhile, a younger cousin is dropped off on the Fuller doorstep by her father, who is eager to head west to seek his fortune. While young Allie's presence seems to be an unnecessary distraction through much of the story, she does play a part in its resolution. Lalicki's research into the period and his extensive knowledge of Harry Houdini are evident. As with Nate's past adventures, th e coincidences stack up a little too neatly, but the rollicking action and tough-talking characters are appealing. Purchase where the first two books are popular.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA LAYBURN, Joe. Ghostscape. illus. by John Williams. 106p. Frances Lincoln. 2009. Tr $15.95. ISBN 978-1-84507-826-3; pap. $7.95. ISBN 978-1-84507-768-6. LC number unavailable. Gr 4–6—Connecting across time, Somali refugee Aisha, new in today's England, finds a sympathetic friend in Richard, a boy who attended her school in 1940. Realizing that a bomb will destroy the building where he and his grandfather had taken shelter during the Blitz, she determines to save him. Richard appears in her world first, as she hides in a bathroom stall to avoid a bullying classmate. After that, in a series of fainting spells, she travels back to World War II London. She witnesses a devastating bombing and is impressed by the way people stand up to Hitler, "the biggest bully of them all." A kindly priest, inexplicably the only other person from that time who can see her, offers advice about keeping her dead father in her heart. The narrative is well paced and appropriately suspenseful, but Aisha tells her story in a voice that is far too adult. Occasional black-and-white illustrations add little to the story. Still, it is refreshing to find a time-slip tale with a n immigrant protagonist.—Kathleen Isaacs, Children's Literature Specialist, Pasadena, MD LUPICA, Mike. Million-Dollar Throw. 244p. CIP. Philomel. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-399-24626-5. LC 2008047529. Gr 6–8—Lupica delivers another smooth, well-paced, character-driven novel. Thirteen-year-old Nate Brodie's life would seem to be the stuff of adolescent boys' dreams: he is the star quarterback of his school football team and has a great relationship with his best friend and soulmate, Abby McCall. However, all is not smooth sailing. The Brodies are in danger of losing their home in the economic downturn, and Abby's eyesight is failing due to a rare congenital disease. Nate thinks he may have the opportunity to solve all of his problems when he wins the chance to make a million dollars by throwing a football through a small target during halftime at a pro football game. Unfortunately, his quarterbacking skills suddenly and mysteriously desert him just as he is preparing for his big moment. With the support of his family and friends, he fights his way back and regains the confidence he needs to face the challenges in his life. While the serious issues raised about the effect s of economic uncertainty on families are resolved a tad too easily, youngsters are likely to accept this as just a good, entertaining read.—Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT MCCHILLER, BBH. Monster Moon: Curse at Zala Manor. 192p. Stargazer. 2009. Tr $15.95. ISBN 978-1-933277-10-3. LC number unavailable. Gr 3–6—A silly mystery that has some fast-paced suspense and okay characters. AJ Zantony, 12, is staying with his Aunt Zsofia while she is preparing her home, Zala Manor, for her annual Halloween Masquerade Ball. Reluctantly AJ agrees to let his science partner, Emily, come over so they can work on a project. Things turn strange as the classmates meet a talking rat named Vlad. They also uncover the journal of AJ's long-dead Great Uncle Bela, which reveals his fear of three pirates who are after his treasure. These same pirates turn up to terrorize AJ and Emily in the form of two zombies and one vampire. As the two sleuths evade the villains, they discover several poems that predict something terrible will occur at midnight in the graveyard on Halloween night. With the help of Vlad's cryptic hints and a sea of rats, the sleuths barely escape the not-so-scary attack of the evil pirates. Chapters are short and language is simple enough for reluctant readers. James Howe's "Bun nicula" (S & S) is a better choice; this one's a little on the corny side.—Julie Shatterly, South County Regional Library, Charlotte, NC MCCLINTOCK, Norah. Homicide Related: A Ryan Dooley Mystery. 345p. CIP. Red Deer. 2009. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-0-88995-431-1. LC C2008-908114-5. Gr 10 Up—Ryan Dooley has a troubled past. However, following his release from jail, he begins living with his uncle, a retired police officer who is determined to keep him on track. Just when it appears that the teen is on the road to success, a mysterious murder and an old friend send elements of Dooley's past soaring back into his life. After being questioned by the police, Dooley is scared his answers may land him back in jail and decides to unravel the truth himself. His investigation reveals hidden aspects about his past, but more importantly facilitates personal growth, transforming him from a troubled teen into a respectable young man. Through his narration, which includes some strong language and sex scenes, characters are developed gradually along with the plot, creating a long list of suspects. Homicide Related goes beyond traditional mysteries, as Dooley purposely omits critical details, keeping readers guessing and the plot moving rapidly.—Mary-Brook J. Todd, The Ensworth School, Nashville, TN MCCLINTOCK, Norah. Taken. 176p. Orca. 2009. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-1-55469-152-4. LC number unavailable. Gr 7–9—When Stephanie hears about two girls who have gone missing, one of whom was found murdered near her town, she is sure it will never happen to her—until it does. After someone grabs her while she is taking a shortcut home, she wakes up in a shack in the middle of nowhere. She manages to untie herself and escape. The rest of the book follows Stephanie as she runs for her life trying to find someone, anyone, to help her. Eventually, the identity of the kidnapper, which is evident from the first few chapters, is revealed. This book has a lot of potential, but it's just not reached. The story seems contrived, from how easy it is for Stephanie to escape to the obvious villain. The book is written on a very easy reading level, suitable for reluctant readers, but it might not hold their interest.—Robyn Zaneski, New York Public Library MCCOY, Chris. Scurvy Goonda. 324p. CIP. Knopf/Borzoi. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-375-85598-6; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-375-95598-3. LC 2008039290. Gr 5–8—In the first of a two-part series, 14-year-old Ted has had the same imaginary friend (or "ab-com," short for abstract companion) since the age of seven, and it's ruining his life. Everyone thinks he's nuts because he always seems to be talking to himself, plus Scurvy Goonda, a disreputable, bacon-loving pirate, is messy and destructive. However, when Scurvy disappears, along with every other ab-com on Earth, Ted follows his trail of rotten bacon to a strange land called Middlemost, where ab-coms are created to the specifications of children's wishes and dreams. There, Ted gets mixed up with a rebel group of ab-coms that are seeking to overthrow the dictator Persephone Skeleton, who in turn wants to conquer Earth and marry her old crush, Scurvy Goonda. Battles ensue, many ab-coms are annihilated in imaginative and gruesome ways, and Ted finds a long-lost relative and a new girlfriend—and he discovers that his arm sometimes detaches at the elbow and makes his wi shes come true. This makes for unusual and creative fantasy, but there are too many loose ends and unanswered questions. Chief among them is the nature of ab-coms; not only is their role as companions to human children rather muddled, but also the author has no problems with killing off these sentient creatures right and left. The failure to create a believable and logical fantasy world dooms this imaginative but frustrating adventure.—Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library MAES, Nicholas. Laughing Wolf. 264p. Midpoint Trade Bks. 2009. pap. $12.99. ISBN 978-1-55488-385-1. LC number unavailable. Gr 6–8—It's 2213, and a deadly plague has broken out. Fifteen-year-old Felix, who never expected his rare knowledge of Latin and Italian history to come in handy, finds himself traveling to the Rome of 71 B.C. to harvest a now-extinct flower that will cure the deadly disease. Along with Carolyn, a girl from his own time, he meets Pompey, Cicero, and many other great statesmen and warriors of the era. Maes is at his best when describing Roman culture, and Felix's interactions with these great historical figures are fun. Unfortunately, the narrative thread begins to break down during a side trip to New York in September 2001. Felix is inexplicably prepared for every situation, easily hot-wiring a car despite the fact that cars no longer exist in his own time. The rules for time travel recede as well; Felix and Carolyn have been instructed to tread lightly in the past, but they become internationally suspected as the masterminds of 9/11 with no apparent consequences for the f uture. Maes's central message—"that those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it"—is a good one, but it is hammered home a bit too hard. The book has an interesting premise, but lack of consistency and character development limit its appeal.—Hayden Bass, Seattle Public Library, WA MANKELL, Henning. Shadow of the Leopard. tr. from Swedish by Anna Paterson. 177p. CIP. Annick, dist. by Firefly. Dec. 2009. Tr $19.95. ISBN 978-1-55451-200-3; pap. $10.95. ISBN 978-1-55451-199-0. LC C2009-902543-4. Gr 9 Up—Mankell's third novel about Sofia picks up where Secrets in the Fire (Annick, 2003) left off. At the age of nine, Sofia lost her legs and one of her sisters to a land mine. After struggling to recover from her injuries, she lost another sister to the AIDS virus. Now 19 and pregnant with her third child, Sofia lives in a Mozambique village with her mother, brothers, and her two older children. Her husband, Armando, works in the city as a car mechanic and visits his family every weekend. After years of tragedy and death, Sofia's life finally seems to be stable and happy. However, after the birth of their child, Armando becomes distant and secretive. When she sets out to the city to see him, she learns that he is having an affair. Enraged and hurt, she confronts Armando, who becomes hostile and verbally abusive. He attempts to reconcile with her, but when she refuses, he abandons her to the wild animals in a distant field. Oddly enough, Sofia suddenly feels compelled to defend him when the police are looking for him. Readers do not need to be familiar with the previous two novels to follow the plot or characters in this story. The writing style is spare and detached from emotion, which might make the book a tough sell. Still, this novel moves along quickly to a realistic yet hopeful ending.—Lynn Rashid, Marriotts Ridge High School, Marriottsville, MD MANKELL, Henning. When the Snow Fell. tr. from Swedish by Laurie Thompson. 247p. CIP. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73497-4; PLB $18.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90491-9. LC 2008020623. Gr 7–9—While this is a companion to A Bridge to the Stars (2007) and Shadows in the Twilight (2008, both Delacorte), it is not necessary to have read those novels to understand the action and characters in this story. Joel, 14, is certain of two things: life gets more complicated over time, and winter always arrives unexpectedly. With the New Year approaching, he visits a graveyard to make three resolutions: to live to be 100 years old, to see the sea for the first time, and to see a naked woman. Enduring a winter night outside, trying to find a way to move away from his slowly decaying town, and seeking out the new shopkeeper's assistant are only a few incidents that follow. An awkward encounter with a classmate brings intense embarrassment, which is followed quickly by Joel's heralded heroic actions in an unrelated event. At times as spare and chilly as the Swedish winter, this book is an affecting portrayal of a young man's maturation and the difficulties of a troubled father-son relationship. Although the story is set in 1950s rural Sweden, readers will relate to Joel's mixed feelings about his father, his budding sexuality, and the fluidity of the humiliation and admiration that are bestowed upon Joel by his peers. Admittedly, the book's audience might be limited to mature and thoughtful readers who don't need constant action to keep the pages turning, but libraries that hold Mankell's related titles will want to add this one.—Jennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, Warrenton, VA MARGOLIS, Leslie. Girls Acting Catty. 208p. Bloomsbury. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-1-59990-237-1. LC 2009002144. Gr 4–6—In this well-written sequel to Boys Are Dogs (Bloomsbury, 2008), sixth-grader Annabelle continues to adjust to the changes in her life. She's happy and confident, but she feels a bit unsettled by the catty behavior of her new school's mean-girl clique, Taylor and the Terrible T's. They're expert in being sneaky and putting everyone down, and Annabelle just doesn't know how to handle it. In addition, her mom is getting married, and Annabelle's new stepbrother-to-be is so handsome that she can't help but have a crush on him. Margolis handles Annabelle's minor crises with sensitivity and humor, whether describing her first experience shaving her legs, buying her first bra, or standing up for herself even when it means losing a friend. A good addition to collections where the first book is popular, as well as an appealing stand-alone.—Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY MESSNER, Kate. The Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z. 198p. CIP. Bloomsbury. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8027-9842-8. LC 2008046979. Gr 5–8—Seventh-grader Gianna Zales loves art and cross-country running. She is not so crazy about research projects or anything involving time-management skills, and has somehow gotten to within a week of the due date of a huge science assignment with no work to show. But how hard can it be to find and catalog 25 different varieties of leaves—especially in Vermont, where Robert Frost was inspired to write "Birches" and countless other poems about nature. However, family obligations keep interfering. Her father runs the town's funeral home, but even a close proximity to death can't prepare her for her own grandmother's decline. Suddenly, Nonna is forgetting everything. Also, Coach Napper has told Gianna that she must bring her science grade up to participate in sectionals, and beautiful, arrogant Bianca would love to take her place as the team's star runner. Gianna's mother means well, but is struggling with Nonna's failing health. Youngsters will find much to relate to in this likable protagonist's struggle to balance family and academic commitments. While it is no surprise when it all comes together in the end, plot twists keep readers engaged, and Messner's warm and humorous tone will capture even reluctant readers.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA MEYER, L. A. Rapture of the Deep: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, Soldier, Sailor, Mermaid, Spy. 454p. (Bloody Jack Adventure Series). CIP. Harcourt. 2009. Tr $17. ISBN 978-0-15-206501-0. LC 2009019494. Gr 7–9—High-spirited Jacky Faber is back. It's 1806 and she is finally set to marry her true love, Jaimy Fletcher. However, on the very day of the wedding she is taken into the custody of the British Royal Navy and forced to help find a lost treasure onboard a Spanish ship that sank off the coast of the Florida Keys. This involves exploring the shipwreck in a diving bell. Pirates and various other shady characters get wind of the plan and are determined to claim the treasure for themselves. Jacky and her crew also take time to explore the exotic port of Havana, where she performs in a nightclub and engages in cock fighting. As with other entries in this series, this one has plenty of action and adventure. Jacky is 16 going on 36 and possesses astounding and varied skills. She can captain a ship and crew, swim and dive expertly, and perform surgery. She taunts and teases every man she meets and seems not to care about running around naked or half-naked in front of them. The re is much sexual innuendo and an attempted rape scene. The secondary characters seem to be little more than cardboard cutouts, especially the pirates. Fans of the series will eat this title up, but for a better-drawn heroine in a historical adventure, try Jennifer Holm's excellent "Boston Jane" series (HarperCollins).—Kristen Oravec, Flint Hill Middle School, Oakton, VA MILLER, Sarah. The Other Girl. 304p. (Midvale Prep Series). St. Martin's/Griffin. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-312-33415-4. LC number unavailable. Gr 10 Up—Predicting your boyfriend's every wish is easy, especially when you are in his head. Molly knows everything that Gideon thinks, and she uses that to be there when he wants her, to leave when he doesn't, and to fulfill his fantasies when the opportunity arises. However, when she catches him thinking of another girl during an intimate moment, Molly dumps him on the spot. And when a game of spin the bottle goes wrong, Molly ends up inside the head of Pilar, the hottest girl in school, dealing with her insecurities as well as her fantasies about Gideon. In this sequel to Inside the Mind of Gideon Rayburn (St. Martin's, 2006), one can't help wondering where all the strong female characters have gone. Pilar is a cardboard popular teen, differentiated only by her accent (she is from South America), which is transliterated on the page. Molly spends too much time in other characters' heads to ever assert much of a personality, though the tension that develops with her roo mmate smacks of authenticity. The wise teacher spouts platitudes that Molly can easily brush off, and the twist at the end and explanation gives pause rather than cause. Not as engaging or appealing as the first book, this title won't stretch the author's fans too far beyond the established base.—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library MOURLEVAT, Jean-Claude. Winter's End. tr. from French by Anthea Bell. 415p. CIP. Candlewick. 2009. RTE $17.99. ISBN 978-0-7636-4450-5. LC 2009008456. Gr 8 Up—In a dystopian world, an oppressive revolutionary group has taken over. Four teenagers escape the "boarding school" where they have been held since their parents were murdered 15 years earlier for being part of the Resistance. Milena and Bartolomeo become romantically involved and run away together, as do Helen and Milos, separate from the other two. Ultimately, Helen, Milena, and Bartolomeo are reunited in the capital city where they find work at a restaurant doubling as a front for the Resistance movement. However, Milos is imprisoned and sent to a training camp from which he will be forced to compete in one-on-one, barbaric arena fights to the death. As a translation from the French, this book is successful, with only occasional minor awkward moments that do not detract from the story's compelling setting, mood, and tone. Most characters are adequately drawn but some disappear and never return. For example, fierce dog-men are carefully introduced, kill a man, run off to the mountains, and vanish. Also, a few circumstances stretch belief, such as the teens riding buses without being recaptured. Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games (2008) and Catching Fire (2009, both Scholastic) and John Marsden's "Tomorrow" series (Houghton) are stronger books.—Diane P. Tuccillo, Poudre River Public Library District, Fort Collins, CO MYERS, Edward. Far from Gringo Land. 240p. CIP. Clarion. Dec. 2009. Tr $16. ISBN 978-0-547-05630-2. LC 2009015828. Gr 8 Up—Rick is spending the summer before his senior year with family friends in Mexico to help them build a new house. He'll provide extra labor for the Romeros in exchange for room and board and a chance to improve his Spanish. The work is backbreaking, the construction project has its setbacks, and Rick has a tough time relating to his host family when both the language and culture are hard to decipher. A budding romance with a rich American teen, also visiting for the summer, takes his mind off his troubles. The premise of this story is promising for what it could do to advance cultural understanding, but a waffling Rick is not strong enough to take on the challenge and the Romeros come off as stereotypes. The third-person narration does little to draw readers in, with much of the story told and not shown. Rick's feeble attempts to help the Romeros through troubling times come off as self-centered and patronizing. Even the light romance, which is often related in stilted an d confusing conversations between Rick and his paramour, isn't enough to make this story compelling.—Shawna Sherman, Hayward Public Library, CA PARKHURST, Liz, ed. The August House Book of Scary Stories: Spooky Tales for Telling Out Loud. illus. by Tom Wrenn. 144p. CIP. August House. 2009. Tr $15.95. ISBN 978-0-87483-915-9. LC 2009008711. Gr 4–8—Each of these 20 chilling tales is meant to be told out loud and includes author notes about how to maximize the spooky effect. Middle schoolers will relish reading and sharing these tales, hoping to creep each other out. While some of the stories are spookier than others, this is still a worthwhile addition for fans of Alvin Schwartz's Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (HarperCollins, 1986) and Robert D. San Souci's Short and Shivery (Random, 2001). The book also deserves a place in professional storytelling collections.—Esther Keller, I.S. 278, Marine Park, NY PEET, Mal. Exposure. 430p. CIP. Candlewick. 2009. RTE $18.99. ISBN 978-0-7636-3941-9. LC 2009007762. Gr 9 Up—South America's star soccer player, Otello, has just signed a very lucrative contract to play with a team in the southern part of his country. Despite his legendary status as a black northerner, he faces racial discrimination from both the fans and his teammates. His fame is launched to a frenzied level when he marries Desmerelda, the white pop-star daughter of the wealthy and powerful politician who funded his soccer contract. Guided by his self-serving agent, Diego, Otello and Desmerelda become a superstar couple with advertising deals, endorsements, and their own clothing line. Meanwhile, a subplot involving three homeless teenagers climaxes with Otello being accused of inappropriate actions when one of the beautiful and flirtatious teens, Bianca, turns up dead. The plot, characters, and names bear a close resemblance to Shakespeare's masterpiece. While teens will need no familiarity with the original to enjoy Peet's version of the tragedy of betrayal and the isolatio n of fame, the subplots and entanglements may seem confusing to readers unfamiliar with the play. At 430 pages, the pacing is slow at times, which will deter some teens from reaching the long-awaited ending. However, teachers could add this title to the list of Shakespeare adaptations that can be analyzed in whole or in part by individual students or a small group.—Lynn Rashid, Marriotts Ridge High School, Marriottsville, MD PON, Cindy. Silver Phoenix: Beyond the Kingdom of Xia. 338p. CIP. HarperCollins/Greenwillow. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-06-173021-4; PLB $18.89. ISBN 978-0-06-178033-2. LC 2008029149. Gr 9 Up—At 17, Ai Ling is past the age when most girls in the kingdom of Xia have married and borne children. The gods, it would seem, have a different destiny in store for her, one that begins to reveal itself when her father travels to the Emperor's Palace and fails to return. Ai Ling is determined to find him and destroy his captor, a corrupt advisor who has unnaturally extended his life by feeding on the souls of others. On her journey, which is rich in action but a little slight on character development, Ai Ling meets Chen Yong, a young man of mixed race who seeks the truth of his birth and faces a variety of predators, both demonic and sexual. Fans of Tamora Pierce's and Robin McKinley's work will enjoy the adventure and strong female protagonist; the Chinese-influenced society and bestiary may also tempt aficionados of Asian culture and media.—Christi Esterle, Parker Library, CO PRYOR, Bonnie. Pirate Hannah Pritchard: Captured! 160p. (Historical Fiction Adventures Series). illus. further reading. Web sites. CIP. Enslow. 2009. PLB $27.93. ISBN 978-0-7660-3310-8. LC 2008038629. Gr 5–8—This sequel to Hannah Pritchard: Pirate of the Revolution (Enslow, 2008) is easy to read and fast moving. Courageous, strong, and determined are just a few of the adjectives that describe the 14-year-old protagonist. The year is 1779, and Hannah, posing as a boy named Jack, works on a ship owned by an American privateer. She and other crew members are eventually captured by a British prison ship. As they follow Hannah and fellow captives during their imprisonment, children will understand the deplorable conditions, including spoiled food and cruelty. After escaping, Hannah and her companions take a British vessel and head out to find treasure in the Carolinas. The lively and descriptive narrative will hold readers' interest. A short section discusses the history of the period. Students who read this novel will learn some history and be engaged at the same time.—Lana Miles, Jackson Elementary School, Rosenberg, TX RASCHKE, Erik. The Book of Samuel: A Novel. 256p. St. Martin's/Griffin. 2009. pap. $14.99. ISBN 978-0-312-37969-8. LC number unavailable. Gr 7 Up—Twelve-year-old Samuel's life is forever changed when his zealot father abandons the family in the name of Jesus. Samuel's mother struggles to maintain hope and a happy home in the face of her husband's blind religious devotion and ultimate desertion. Samuel hears his father's message about fighting evil, but he is also surrounded by his grandmother's racist remarks and has his own encounters with Mexican kids in their Denver community. Soon the struggle between good and evil plays out in his personal life and he's confused about where he stands. After violence repeatedly erupts, Samuel comes to learn that prejudice can be unlearned, that everyone has demons, and that true goodness comes from a place of love and forgiveness. Despite some superfluous narrative that bogs the pace down, Raschke's story is sometimes amusing, but Samuel's fight to survive in the crosshairs of religion and racism is excruciating and poignant. Samuel will leave readers wanting to look at life with wider eyes and a more open heart.—Terri Clark, Smoky Hill Library, Centennial, CO REED, Amy. Beautiful. 232p. CIP. S & S/Pulse. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-7830-5. LC 2008040680. Gr 9 Up—Thirteen-year-old Cassie has bloomed. Following her family's move from an island off the coast of Washington to a Seattle suburb, she has a new attractiveness that earns her the moniker "the beautiful seventh grader." Her good looks and willingness to conform are a passport to her school's powerful clique of druggies led by Alex, a frightening but charismatic fellow seventh grader who adopts Cassie as her best friend. Cassie's compliance with Alex's demands—to burn photographs of former friends, to take acid, to have sex—secures her a position as Alex's second in command but threatens her health and safety. When Alex's half sister Sarah moves in with Alex and her wasted mother, Cassie finds her allegiance shifting from her best friend to Sarah. Reed's first novel owes a tremendous debt to Catherine Hardwicke's 2002 film Thirteen; however, where the filmic treatment of its 13-year-old heroines' dangerous experimentation is complicated by the richness of their characters and their interactions with one another and the supporting cast, this novel is less complex and more sensational. It is difficult to discern motivation for many of the characters, whose actions—Alex's in particular—are explained in almost clichéd form, and the secondary characters are one-dimensional.—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston RESAU, Laura. The Indigo Notebook. 324p. CIP. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73652-7; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90614-2. LC 2008040519. Gr 6–9—This is a family and friendship story turned adventure tale with a touch of romance and an even slighter hint of fantasy. Zeeta, 15, wishes most of all that her mother would settle down so that they could have a regular life, rather than moving her from country to country, quoting the Sufi poet Rumi at every opportunity, and getting involved with eccentric, irresponsible men. As they arrive at their latest destination, a small town in the mountains of Ecuador, Zeeta meets Wendell, an American boy in search of his birth parents. When she agrees to help him in his quest, she becomes involved in a mysterious and ultimately dangerous adventure. As the suspense heats up and becomes more intense, Zeeta's mother is engaged in her own adventure: a relationship with a man who wants her to settle down and become responsible. The change in Layla forces Zeeta to question what she values about her mother, and whether she really wants that suburban lifestyle after all. Well plott ed, with a cast of likable and interesting secondary characters and a powerfully atmospheric setting that includes a cave of crystals and a waterfall supposed to have magical powers, this novel succeeds at creating a believable and touchingly gentle romance between Zeeta and Wendell. The fantastic element, Wendell's inherited gift of seeing into the future, is deftly handled. An entertaining and suspenseful read.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City RODDA, Emily. The Wizard of Rondo. 400p. Scholastic. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-545-11516-2. LC number unavailable. Gr 4–6—In the week that has passed since The Key to Rondo (Scholastic, 2008) took place, Leo Zifkak has been carefully studying the music box that contains the world of Rondo, searching for signs of his troublemaking Uncle Spoiler. When the paintings on the outside of the box show evidence that the evil Blue Queen is up to something, Leo and his impulsive cousin Mimi decide that it's time for them to return to Rondo. Once there, they are reunited with their friends Conker, Freda the duck, and Bertha the pig, and are sidetracked by a quest to determine the whereabouts of Bing, a wizard who vanished from the village of Hobnob. The appearance of a cloud palace over Hobnob appears to indicate that the wizard was taken by the Strix, an ancient being that "collects" unusual creatures. All this is a lot to take in, and the story tends to meander. However, Rodda makes up for it in the denizens of Rondo, who are instantly charming and display a variety of quirks, foibles, an d virtues. Fans of Cornelia Funke's work will eagerly embrace this fairy-tale-laced world.—Christi Esterle, Parker Library, CO ROWEN, Michelle. Demon Princess: Reign or Shine. Bk. 1. 284p. (Demon Princess Series). CIP. Walker. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8027-8492-6; pap. $9.99. ISBN 978-0-8027-9534-2. LC 2009000205. Gr 6–10—Just when Nikki Donovan is about to go to Winter Formal with the hottest guy at school, she's summoned by a creepy (but also hot) teenage messenger from the land of the demons. It turns out her father, who left her mother before Nikki was born, is the king of the Shadowlands, the dimension between the human realm and the Underworld. Now he is dying, and Nikki is next in line for the throne. While many novels and TV shows remove supernatural creatures from their traditional gothic environments, this book keeps the demons in creepy, mist-shrouded castles. Cartoonish scenes in which Nikki sprouts leather wings and pets unicorns even make the story seem like a spoof. But the real problem is that there isn't enough plot to sustain readers' interest. Instead, Nikki spends a lot of time talking and thinking about her situation: "It didn't make any sense. It couldn't be real. And if it was…if I was half demon, what did that mean? Was I evil? Would I suddenly g o all dark side and want to eat souls or something?" For more complicated, less-stereotypical demons, check out Maureen Johnson's Devilish (Penguin, 2006), or A. M. Jenkins's Repossessed (HarperTeen, 2007)—or if you prefer demon-slayers, Rosemary Clement-Moore's "Maggie Quinn" series (Delacorte).—Emily R. Brown, Providence Public Library, RI RUBY, Laura. Bad Apple. 247p. CIP. HarperTeen. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-124330-1. LC 2009001409. Gr 8 Up—As in Good Girls (HarperTempest, 2006), Ruby explores how technology affects the high school social landscape. When the story starts, green-haired artist Tola Riley has already been falsely accused of an illicit involvement with her art teacher. Mr. Mymer is out of school pending an investigation, and rumors are circulating among classmates, particularly at an anonymously administered Web site called thetruthabouttolariley.com. Comments by classmates, school administrators, and family members appear after each chapter, giving readers a diverse set of perspectives on Tola's situation. The teen is an unusual and likable narrator. She is sarcastic and frustrated with her environment without seeming overly downcast or self-absorbed, and her passion for art and fairy tales is genuine and appealing. Her harried mother, patient grandparents, and emotionally unstable sister are equally well drawn. Seven, her romantic int erest (who also likes fairy tales and slipping cupcakes into Tola's locker), is a bit too perfect and too flat to be believed. The villain emerges as one of the most compelling characters; it is clear from her blog comments that she enjoys exploiting the perceived insecurities of strangers, and that her spreading rumors is as much about relishing chaos as it is about hurting her former friend. Tola's friendships, family situation, status at school, and understanding of the truth all change in subtle but appreciable ways over the course of the novel. Artists, compassionate teens, and readers who enjoyed Good Girls will laugh, hurt, and roll their eyes along with this witty individualist of a heroine and her friends and supporters.—Megan Honig, New York Public Library SCHMAIS, Libby. The Pillow Book of Lotus Lowenstein. 288p. Delacorte. Dec. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73756-2; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90673-9. LC number unavailable. Gr 9–11—Lotus is completely enamored with all things French and organizes a club at her Brooklyn high school to celebrate French culture, food, and language. Initially her friend Joni is the only other member, and both girls are delighted when Sean, a handsome newcomer, joins them. Two girls, one cute guy, and a summer trip to Montreal are bound to spell trouble. Eventually it all works out in a rather speedy and contrived conclusion. The story is told in diary format with a liberal sprinkling of French vocabulary and pop-culture references past and present. Comments about current personalities will quickly date this novel, and the names of former personalities will mean little to today's teens. While Lotus is a fun, chatty narrator, and the book has some humorous moments, overall it's just comme ci comme ça.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA SHINN, Sharon. Gateway. 280p. CIP. Viking. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-670-01178-0. LC 2009014002. Gr 6–9—When Daiyu, a St. Louis high school student adopted as a baby from China, buys a black jade ring from an old woman and then walks through the Gateway Arch, her life instantly changes. The Arch has been replaced by an enormous pagodalike gate, and most of the people around her are Chinese. A young man assures her that everything is fine and takes her to the people who have been expecting her. Daiyu discovers that the world she knows is only one of many "iterations" created by contentious gods who wanted different versions of the world when it was created. Because she is Chinese, she has been brought to this particular iteration, a place where the ruling class is Chinese, to help eliminate one of the gods' rogue servants. The fantasy is coherent and engaging and has the potential for sequels that explore other iterations. Shinn is a prolific and skillful writer, and the world in which Daiyu finds herself is full of interesting detail, though its use of Chinese culture is superficial. The story itself moves slowly. Daiyu is placed into the household of an upper-class woman who claims the teen as her niece because she is desperate to get certain invitations only available to families with girls being introduced into society. Daiyu falls in love with the young man who rescued her and is also courted by a wealthy suitor. In the end, it is the hint of a happy ending to the slight love story that will satisfy most readers.—Barbara Scotto, Children's Literature New England, Brookline, MA SHOWALTER, Gena. Intertwined. 448p. Harlequin Teen. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-373-21002-2. LC number unavailable. Gr 8 Up—Aden Stone is not your typical 16-year-old. Since birth he has had four souls trapped within him that possess special powers: the ability to time travel, raise the dead, possess a body, and predict the future. As a result, he has spent his whole life in and out of mental institutions diagnosed as a violent schizophrenic. Now able to control the voices in his head, Aden has moved to Crossroads, OK, to live in a halfway house for delinquent boys. His goal in life is to find a means to free these souls and at last be at peace. When he meets Mary Ann Gray, she miraculously acts as a neutralizer, and for the first time in his life, he truly feels normal. The two become fast friends, establishing a sibling-type bond. Little do they realize that when they first met, their connection sent a power surge throughout the world drawing every paranormal creature from fairies to vampires to Crossroads on a quest for power. To complicate matters, Aden becomes romantically involved with a vampire princess and Mary Ann with her werewolf bodyguard. Together the teens must figure out a way to protect themselves, and all of humanity. This fast-paced, action-driven plot has many unexpected twists and turns. Well written, with a unique story line and strong characters, Intertwined is fresh and original at a time when there is an overload of paranormal romances on the market.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY SHUSTERMAN, Neal. Everwild. Bk. 2. 432p. (The Skinjacker Trilogy). CIP. S & S. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-5863-5. LC 2008051348. Gr 8 Up—Some young people, when they die, lose their way on the path toward the light and end up in Everlost, a sort of purgatory between life and final peace that the light brings. Everwild continues the story of Allie the Outcast; Nick the Chocolate Ogre; and Mikey McGill and his sister, Mary Hightower, that began in Everlost (S & S, 2006). Nick continues to oppose Mary, who believes that her destiny is to keep all children in Everlost forever, preferably in her care. One of his new allies is Zin, a girl who can "rip" things from the living world into Everlost. Allie meets other "skinjackers," Afterlights who can possess people in the world of the living, and learns from them matters both exhilarating and horrifying. Mikey gains more control over his power to change himself and even learns to extend his ability to others. Shusterman demonstrates by Mary's choices of allies and goals just how terrifying the righteous can be. As with any good book two of a tril ogy, readers are treated to unexpected developments and a blockbuster cliff-hanger to hook them in for the concluding episode. In this moment in popular culture when vampires are everywhere and zombies are shuffling to the fore, Shusterman has created a new way to be undead. A perfect read for the spooky time of the year—and without any loss of vital fluids.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI SINDEN, David, Matthew Morgan, & Guy Macdonald. Sea Monsters and Other Delicacies. Bk. 2. ISBN 978-1-4169-8650-8. LC 2008939726. SINDEN, David, Matthew Morgan, & Guy Macdonald. Werewolf Versus Dragon. Bk. 1. ISBN 978-1-4169-8649-2. LC 2008939727. ea vol: illus. by Jonny Duddle. 192p. (An Awfully Beastly Business Series). S & S/Aladdin. 2009. Tr $9.99. Gr 4–7—Ulf is a young werewolf who lives on the vast properties of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Beasts. He is under the mentoring eye of Dr. Helen Fielding, a crypto-veterinarian—in other words, a vet who cares for unusual beasts such as dragons and yetis. His enemy, and the enemy of all who support the RSPCB, is Baron Marackai, a thoroughly and stereotypically despicable villain who delights in kidnapping and killing such creatures. In Werewolf, Marackai murders a baby dragon and sets his sights on the baby's mother, and Ulf and Dr. Fielding go on guard—but when and how will the Baron attack? The authors set up an interesting situation, but then sat back and simply connected the dots. In Sea Monsters, Ulf is alarmed when a sea captain tows in a gigantic, octopuslike monster with a venomous stinger. The injured Redback lurks in her tank, foul-tempered and ready to strike at anyone who tries to help her. Ulf researches the ani mal, and, with the help of his fairy friend Tiana, learns how to help it. Dr. Fielding strongly advises against it, but Ulf, in secret, is determined to try. It soon becomes apparent, however, that Baron Marackai wants Ulf to cure the Redback for nefarious reasons of his own. This volume is very much like the first, including the shallow characters and predictable plot. The idea behind the series—a nature preserve for fantastic beasts—is intriguing, but it is not well carried out.—Walter Minkel, Austin Public Library, TX SLADE, Arthur. The Hunchback Assignments. 278p. CIP. Random/Wendy Lamb Bks. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73784-5; PLB $18.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90694-4. LC 2008054378. Gr 6–10—What do you get when you combine elements of Robert Louis Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Victor Hugo's The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Alan Moore's League of Extraordinary Gentlemen? You get this exciting steampunk adventure. And though Slade borrows from the classics, the story is original and a fun read. Modo, a young hunchback, is rescued from a traveling freak show by the mysterious Victorian Englishman, Mr. Socrates. He is raised in isolation and trained to master his extraordinary physical powers, which include the ability to alter his deformed features and take on any appearance. When he's 13, Mr. Socrates presses him into service on behalf of the Permanent Association, a secret group dedicated to protecting Great Britain, and the teen is plunged headfirst into a race to prevent the government's destruction. Modo, an innocent who is often shocked by the vulgarities of street life, is paired with fellow agent Octavia Milkweed, a re scued urchin whose street smarts complement his immense physical talents. She is at once a partner, a foil, and a possible love interest. The protagonists are likable, the villains are chilling, and the story is action packed. Forays into the raw effluence of London's sewer system provide just enough "ick" factor. And, Slade gets the Victorian setting just right.—Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School, CA SMITH, Icy. Half Spoon of Rice: A Survival Story of the Cambodian Genocide. illus. by Sopaul Nhem. 44p. CIP. East West Discovery. Jan. 2010. Tr $19.95. ISBN 978-0-9821675-8-8. LC 2009002973. Gr 5–8—Young Nat narrates this harrowing story of his family's experience during the Cambodian genocide of the mid-to-late '70s, when a quarter of the country's population "…died of starvation, torture, or execution." The Khmer Rouge army evacuated millions of citizens to the countryside in an effort to create a classless society of peasant farmers. Subsisting on watery rice soup, Nat's family walks for days until they reach a rice field where the children, men, and women are all separated. Along the way, the boy befriends Malis, a girl his age who cannot find her family. At one point, on the verge of starvation, he sneaks off and finds a frog and pulls its legs off to eat. "It tastes horrible, but it satisfies my stomach." Days, months, and years pass until the Vietnamese Liberation Army finally frees them. Though Nat eventually finds his parents, who adopt Malis, the journey is treacherous. "We are shocked to see so many dead bodies along our route…we sometim es walk on top of the bodies to avoid stepping on a mine." An author's note gives background information about the Cambodian genocide. Bold, impressionistic oil paintings, mainly full page but some full spreads, speak volumes, and archival photographs are appended. This powerful child's-eye view of war is harsh and realistic—like its subject—though accessible and thought-provoking.—Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools SMITH, Roland. Tentacles. 319p. CIP. Scholastic. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-545-16688-1. LC 2009011125. Gr 5–8—Since the disappearance of Marty's parents, he and his cousin Grace have lived with her father, the renowned cryptozoologist Travis Wolfe. This sequel to Cryptid Hunters (Hyperion, 2005) begins with Wolfe mounting an expedition in search of a mythological giant squid. Marty, his friend Luther, and Grace join the crew aboard the Coelacanth, a refitted freighter. Unknown to Wolfe, however, his archenemy Noah Blackwood is in hot pursuit, determined to steal the gigantic creature and destroy Wolfe and his reputation. Add hatching dinosaur eggs, a manic chimpanzee, cool gadgets, a nifty undersea nuclear submarine, ruthless villains, murder, and sabotage to the mix and you've got a high-octane page-turner that will reel readers in and keep them riveted. Several unanswered questions suggest another sequel may be in the works, which will make Smith's fans very happy.—Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage Public Library, AK SNIEGOSKI, Thomas E. Legacy. 213p. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73714-2; PLB $18.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90648-7. LC number unavailable. Gr 8–10—Lucas is 18 years old and going nowhere fast. Having dropped out of high school, he's decided on life as a mechanic and small-town anonymity—until his mysterious billionaire father swoops in from Seraph City to tell him that he is, in fact, destined to become a superhero. Lucas's father is dying and needs someone to take over his work as the Raptor, a crime fighter who has spent his life trying to take back Seraph City from the thugs, petty criminals, and evil forces that have plagued it since Lucas left town as an infant. A surprise attack on the trailer park where Lucas and his mother live convinces him to take the gig, if for no other reason than to exact revenge on his now-dead mother's murderers. After rigorous training, Lucas eventually takes over as the city's resident billionaire philanthropist and hero. Action-packed and filled with gadgetry of all sorts, Legacy will serve well as an introduction to the superhero genre. Those already schooled in the lore of caped crime fighters may not be as impressed, as elements of the story are derivative of many classics. Some references to heavy drinking push this toward a slightly higher age group, but it is likely that middle-grade students will devour it as well.—Nora G. Murphy, Los Angeles Academy Middle School SPRADLIN, Michael P. Trail of Fate. Bk. 2. 230p. (The Youngest Templar Series). map. CIP. Putnam. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-399-24764-4. LC 2008052888. Gr 6–9—The action and intrigue start right from the first page in this riveting sequel to Keeper of the Grail (Putnam, 2008). Shipwrecked and on his own, Tristan washes up on a beach on his way home from the Crusades. Instead of coming ashore in England, however, he lands in France, where a group of armed warriors take him prisoner. Celia, the leader of this band, appears to be in trouble, and her earnest desire to help her people, coupled with her pretty face, makes Tristan eager to do what he can for her. Rejoined by his companions Robard Hode and Maryam, a Saracen assassin, he must choose between pursuing his original mission—returning the Holy Grail to Rosalyn Abbey in England—or aiding Celia against corrupt church leaders. In addition, a Templar who wants to claim the Grail for himself is still on Tristan's tail. Covering both action sequences and intrigue with the same brisk pacing, Spradlin gives audiences three appealing and sympathetic heroes to guide them through the strange and dangerous landscape. The interplay between Robard and Maryam lightens the mood at tense moments, and the growing romance between them puts a brilliant spin on the traditional tales of Robin Hood and Maid Marian. Readers can jump into the series at this point, but the story has neither a beginning nor an ending; this second volume is a serial installment in a much larger tale. It will undoubtedly appeal to the sword and sorcery set, and makes a good addition to historical-fiction collections.—Alana Joli Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT STIER, Catherine. The Terrible Secrets of the Tell-All Club. 125p. CIP. Albert Whitman. 2009. Tr $14.99. ISBN 978-0-8075-7798-1. LC 2008055704. Gr 4–6—When Kiley decides to start a club, she really has ulterior motives—she wants to know if fellow fifth grader T.J. likes her. She puts together a questionnaire for kids who want to join, asking innocuous questions such as, "What is your favorite salad dressing?" and "What is your favorite color?," just so #50 won't seem so obvious, "Who do you like? (REALLY like, not just as a friend kind of like)." Her plan backfires when Anne, mad at Josh, writes nasty things about him, and Josh's brother types that Josh likes Anne and hits send on the computer, and T.J. seems to like someone mysterious named Katie. The result is hurt feelings and misunderstandings galore. It is during the fifth-grade outdoor-recreation camp that all unravels and the true motives of Kiley's club are revealed. T.J., afraid that his pet rat, Katie, will die if he leaves her home, brings her to camp and she escapes. The ensuing search for her brings the friends back together, as they begin to ma ture and see their own personal strengths in the process. Told in the four voices of the club members, the story shows the characters' insecurities and the family issues they face. Reluctant readers will find it fast paced, easy to follow, and populated with likable personalities.—Michele Shaw, Quail Run Elementary School, San Ramon, CA SUMA, Nova Ren. Dani Noir. 266p. CIP. S & S/Aladdin. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-7564-9. LC 2009222270. Gr 6–8—Summer looks bleak to 13-year-old Danielle Callanzano. Her best friend has moved away, her father has recently split, and her mother is acting sad and weepy. Dani finds escape in the glamorous film noir world at the Little Art, a local retro movie theater in her sleepy upstate New York town. There she finds companionship in Austin, the son of the owner, and his cousin Jackson, the projectionist. Drawn by the mystery and moral ambiguity of her femme-fatale idol, Rita Hayworth, Dani employs sarcasm, evasion, and lies to her mom in hopes of forestalling a weekend visit with her father and his girlfriend. She craves a mystery, and one arises from her suspicion that Jackson, 17, is a two-timer. She uses Facebook and the camera in her cell phone to gain incriminating evidence. The mystery, however, feels contrived, driven by drama and anger, and the first-person narration focuses so exclusively on Dani and her fantasies that the other characters and relationships suffer a s a result. Once Mom regains her composure as a parent, Dani is grounded for her deceptive exploits. She finally finds cause to apologize and make peace with family and friends in a plot that turns on her personal growth.—Susan W. Hunter, Riverside Middle School, Springfield, VT SUMMY, Barrie. I So Don't Do Spooky. 256p. Delacorte. Dec. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73604-6; PLB $18.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90584-8. LC number unavailable. Gr 6–8—Sherry Holmes Baldwin, the 13-year-old heroine of Summy's I So Don't Do Mysteries (Delacorte, 2008) is back for a second reluctant round of detection. When her mother—a ghostly coed at the Academy of Spirits—asks Sherry to help her find out who is stalking Sherry's stepmother, a task set upon her by her Academy guidance counselor, the teen agrees, even though her relationship with "The Ruler," who teaches at her middle school, is often strained. Guided by her spectral mother as well as her ghostly grandfather, Sherry goes undercover at a neighboring junior high school's robotics club meeting, certain that one of their members is behind the torment. After several meetings with Mom and Grandpa and the intervention of a teen psychic and a ghost-hunter, Sherry finally solves the mystery, though by the last pages of the novel the identity of her stepmother's stalker almost seems like a moot point. Not tightly written or clever enough to be considered s crewball, and with not as much attitude as Meg Cabot's "Mediator" series (HarperCollins), this story doesn't satisfy as a mystery or as a supernatural thriller.—Amy S. Pattee, Simmons College, Boston TELEP, Trisha, ed. The Eternal Kiss: 13 Vampire Tales of Blood and Desire. 416p. Running Pr. Teens. 2009. pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-0-7624-3717-7. LC 2009926683. Gr 8 Up—This anthology is full of high-quality fiction that mixes some well-established authors of vampire stories with some new ones. The selections have diverse story lines, some strong on the horror component but including lighter fare with some comedy and romance, and an array of writing styles. Vampires are portrayed in a variety of ways along with their history and lore, making this an entertaining read. Particularly noteworthy are Sarah Rees Brennan's "Undead Is Very Hot Right Now," Karen Mahoney's "Falling to Ash," Holly Black's "The Coldest Girl in Coldtown," and Libba Bray's "The Thirteenth Step." These fang-tastic tales are a must for libraries with a strong vampire fan base.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY THOR, Annika. A Faraway Island. tr. from Swedish by Linda Schenck. 256p. Delacorte. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-385-73617-6; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-385-90590-9. LC number unavailable. Gr 5–8—In this gripping story, Stephie and Nellie, two Austrian Jewish sisters, are evacuated in 1938 from Vienna to a Swedish island and placed in separate foster homes. Twelve-year-old Stephie has promised her parents that she will try to ease her younger sister's way, a burdensome promise to keep. Auntie Alma, Nellie's Swedish mother, is warmer and more welcoming than Auntie Märta, Stephie's more austere foster parent. At first it seems that Nellie will have a more difficult time adjusting, but the opposite happens. Loneliness and a sense of isolation engulf Stephie. The shunning and taunting of cliquish, bigoted girls intensify her longing for home and the familiar, but Stephie bravely perseveres, bolstered by the hope that she will only be separated from her parents for a short time. Unfortunately this does not happen, and the girls must remain on this faraway island. Children will readily empathize with Stephie's courage. Both sisters are well-drawn, likable cha racters. This is the first of four books Thor has written about the two girls. It is an excellent companion to Lois Lowry's Number the Stars (Houghton, 1989), Kit Pearson's The Sky Is Falling (Viking, 1990; o.p.), and Olga Levy Drucker's Kindertransport (Holt, 1995).—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ TOWNLEY, Roderick. The Blue Shoe: A Tale of Thievery, Villainy, Sorcery, and Shoes. illus. by Mary GrandPré. 255p. CIP. Knopf/Borzoi. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-375-85600-6; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-375-95600-3. LC 2008043851. Gr 4–6—This tale begins with a mysterious blue-jeweled shoe and centers on the adventures of 13-year-old Hap Barlow, who gets imprisoned and is part of a slave revolt, and ends with the mystery of the shoe solved and a lesson on how not to mistreat the Earth. Elflike creatures called Aukis once lived freely on Mount Xexnax, but now it is a prison set up by humans and holds the lawbreakers of Aplanap along with captured Aukis. Hap and some Auki warriors must unite in order for the slave revolt to succeed but cultural twists and turns complicate this mission, including the necessity of working with Ulf, an Auki who is married to a human. GrandPré's occasional, detailed blue illustrations are well placed and assist in keeping readers' attention focused. The Blue Shoe is a delightful fantasy that brings forth the topics of diversity and ecology in a way that does not have a happy ending but one with a solution in progress.—Nancy D. Tolson, Mitchell College , New London, CT VOLPONI, Paul. Homestretch. 151p. CIP. S & S/Atheneum. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-3987-0. LC 2008030024. Gr 9 Up—Gaston's mother died a few months ago, and his dad has become a mean drunk. After one beating too many, the teen cleans out his father's wallet and takes off. He manages to hitch a ride on a flatbed, only to discover that he is stuck with a bunch of border-jumping "beaners." Gas's father's hatred for Mexicans only grew when the accident that killed his wife involved a couple of them, and Gas shares his prejudice. The men are heading to Arkansas to work at a racehorse farm, where Gas also gets a job with an unsavory, unethical trainer. He moves up from hot walker to jockey, endures the taunting and derision from the experienced jockeys, and takes a couple of bad falls. Along the way, he questions his hatred for the beaners, and finally comes to terms with his feelings and finds a place to call home. From the first page, Volponi is off and running, delivering a fast-paced book that will sustain the interest of reluctant readers. Homestretch is a sure winner.—< i>Debbie Rothfeld, Countryside High School, Clearwater, FL WALLIAMS, David. The Boy in the Dress. illus. by Quentin Blake. 240p. Penguin/Razorbill. Dec. 2009. Tr $15.99. ISBN 978-1-59514-299-3. LC number unavailable. Gr 6–8—The protagonist in this offbeat story is Dennis, a 12-year-old boy whose eclectic interests range from football (soccer) to fashion. He's mocked for his purchase of Vogue magazine but he just can't resist poring over the photo shoots, enamored with the color, cut, and style of women's dresses. Dennis meets up with Lisa, the school hottie, who is two years older and also a fashion aficionado. She plays dress up with Dennis and convinces him to come to school as "Denise," a French exchange student. Hilarity ensues as soccer-star Dennis, outfitted in an orange sequined sheath, complete with wig and makeup, attempts to pull off the ruse. This quirky comedy also has poignant moments between Dennis and his dad and brother. It's a quick read and Blake's stylistic line illustrations are the icing on the cake. All that being said, it's difficult to predict an audience for this book. Younger students may be turned off by the Briticisms, and it's a bit too juvenile for older readers.—Patricia N. McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA WHINNEM, Reade Scott. The Pricker Boy. 276p. CIP. Random. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-375-85719-5; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-375-95719-2. LC 2008049340. Gr 7–9—Stucks, 14, and his friend Pete are year-round residents of their lakeside community, joined each summer by kids whose families own vacation cottages—Emily, Ronnie, Vivek, and Stucks's cousin Robin. For years, the friends have been telling each other scary campfire stories starring the Pricker Boy, once a real child who was tricked into getting caught in one of his father's animal traps, taken in by the dense woods, and transformed into a revenge-seeking creature with "skin hardened like bark…and thorns over every inch of his body." Their belief that the stories aren't real is shaken when a package filled with childhood objects—sacrificed in years past to keep the monster away—mysteriously appears. Going into the woods beyond the hawthorn trees won't really bring danger and death, will it? And Pete, with his unpredictable behavior, isn't really going over to the dark side, is he? This summer is all about the friends testing their limits, find ing a way to deal with their fears, and overcoming emotional trauma. While loose ends abound and certain plot elements defy logical explanation, the spooky mood is sustained and will carry many readers to consider their own nightmares, imagine their greatest fears, and have empathy for these characters dealing with their own bogeymen.—Joel Shoemaker, South East Junior High School, Iowa City, IA WHITTEN, A. J. The Well. 332p. CIP. Houghton/Graphia. 2009. pap. $8.99. ISBN 978-0-547-23229-4. LC 2009007973. Gr 6–9—High school freshman Cooper Warner's stepfather makes his life miserable, and his English-teacher father only seems to care about how well he does on his Hamlet paper. But these problems pale in comparison with the biggest one of all: his mother is trying to kill him. At the beginning of the story, she pushes him into a slimy old well on the vineyard property owned by her new husband. As Cooper tries to escape, he begins to realize that a hideous creature is toying with him, hungry for his blood. Cooper makes it out of the well, but the creature is determined to hunt him down and force him to take its place, and it has enlisted the help of his stepfather and his seemingly possessed mother. Cooper tries to enlist his girlfriend's help, but when the creature abducts her, and then uses her and his brother as bait, Cooper realizes that he is intended to be a sacrifice for the continued fertility of the land and that he will have to confront the monster. The autho r claims to have been inspired by Hamlet, but the connection with Shakespeare's play is tenuous at best. The story has a few good touches, as when the creature possesses Cooper's MySpace page, but there are too many plot holes and too much is left unexplained. The adult characters are clichés, and the numerous pop culture and product references guarantee that this book will date quickly.—Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ WILKS, Mike. Mirrorscape. 336p. Egmont USA. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-60684-008-5; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-1-60684-040-5. LC number unavailable. Gr 5–8—The first in a planned trilogy, this well-written adventure will appeal to fantasy fans. The only child of a poor weaver, Mel Womper is a talented though untrained artist. When he is apprenticed to a master painter, he realizes that the imaginary creatures he has always loved to paint might actually exist. There is a way to step into a painting and travel through the Mirrorscape, a universe made up of various artworks joined together. In this amazing place, anything an artist imagines can come to life. As Mel soon discovers, Master Blenk's enemies are ruthless in their attempts to win control over the artist and gain access to the Mirrorscape. When Blenk disappears, it's up to Mel, with the help of his new friends, to use his innate sensitivity and creativity to fight the forces of evil. Though rich in detail, the narrative moves at a quick pace. The characters are interesting and well developed. Strange hybrid creatures, a talking house, and the textures of paint a nd canvas all blend together to create a fascinating world full of color and magic.—Melissa Moore, Union University Library, Jackson, TN

Nonfiction

BENJAMIN, Ashley B., Michael Cauthen, & Patrick Donnelly. The Student-Athlete's College Recruitment Guide: How to Find the Best Program for Your Academic and Athletic Needs. 280p. appendix. index. Web sites. CIP. Ferguson. 2009. Tr $35. ISBN 978-0-8160-7662-8. LC 2008047689. Gr 9 Up—This three-part guidebook was written to help parents, students, and high school coaches negotiate the obstacle course that the collegiate sports recruiting process can be. It discusses what questions should be asked of recruiters and how to ask them. It also covers the various aspects of recruitment, how college sports are organized, and a bird's-eye view of the process as seen by respected coaches. A proposed bill of rights for student athletes and a discussion of college athletics as big business are appended. While the prospective readership for this book is limited, it is a worthwhile addition to most libraries serving teens.—Carol Jones Collins, Hanover Park High School, East Hanover, NJ BLACKWOOD, Gary. Mysterious Messages: A History of Codes and Ciphers. 170p. photos. reprods. bibliog. further reading. glossary. index. notes. Web sites. Dutton. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-525-47960-4. LC number unavailable. Gr 5–8—Many books present readers with codes to crack and puzzles to solve, but this excellent narrative history of cryptography explains who developed the different systems of encryption and why—and who managed to crack the codes. Blackwood offers an accessible and often funny lesson in alternative history that features many names that readers will know (Julius Caesar, Queen Elizabeth I, and Thomas Jefferson, to name a few), as well as those who worked behind the scenes to create what they hoped were unbreakable ciphers. Wherever matters of national security were at stake, cryptography played a major role, and perhaps the most interesting lesson is that many landmark events would have turned out differently had it not been for cryptographers working on both sides to create and break the other side's secret messages. Blackwood provides challenging examples of each type of cipher for readers to try. The book's clever and appealing format, designed to look like a secre t notebook of torn pages, photographs, and sketches taped to the pages, complements the subject perfectly. This is an excellent accompaniment to fiction series like Nancy Springer's "Enola Holmes" books (Philomel), which make use of many of the codes and ciphers Blackwood mentions.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM BOGACKI, Tomek. The Champion of Children: The Story of Janusz Korczak. illus. by author. unpaged. CIP. Farrar/Frances Foster Bks. 2009. Tr $17.99. ISBN 978-0-374-34136-7. LC 2008016188. Gr 4–7—Korczak was a doctor, writer, and advocate for children's rights in pre-World War II Poland. He ran an orphanage for Jewish children and acted as a beloved father figure right up until he and the children perished together in Treblinka. Bogacki's picture-book biography is heartfelt and well researched. However, it seems overwhelmed by its own subject, as the author condenses the details of Korczak's upbringing and the context of the Holocaust into a backdrop for the story of the orphanage. As a result, Korczak doesn't come across as the fascinating man he was, and the book is a bit confusing. Bogacki's childlike illustrations seem wrong for the dark subject matter and dark scenes, particularly since most children don't learn about the Holocaust until fifth grade, and these pictures seem too young for that audience.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL COTTER, Charis. Born to Write: The Remarkable Lives of Six Famous Authors. 168p. photos. reprods. bibliog. index. notes. CIP. Annick, dist. by Firefly. Dec. 2009. Tr $24.95. ISBN 978-1-55451-192-1; pap. $14.95. ISBN 978-1-55451-191-4. LC C2009-902865-4. Gr 5 Up—The life stories of six authors are told, giving readers insight into the childhood experiences that shaped their work. From Lucy Maud Montgomery's loss of her mother and estrangement from her father in the late 1800s to Christopher Paul Curtis growing up in a strong family surrounded by racism in the 1960s, Cotter shows how the individuals' achievements, losses, tragic situations, and experiences led to the creation of many well-loved novels. C. S. Lewis, E. B. White, Madeline L'Engle, and Philip Pullman all had experiences that led them to create fantastic characters and stories. These writers were inspired by other great authors, such as Hans Christian Andersen and Louisa May Alcott, whose stories are interspersed throughout the book. Younger readers will find the presentation of the book appealing, with many colorful photographs and illustrations; however, more mature readers will gain the most enjoyment as they discover the backgrounds and inspirations of some of th eir favorite writers. A page of notes indicates the sources of direct quotes. An excellent resource for reports and pleasure reading.—Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD DEEN, Paula, with Martha Nesbit. Paula Deen's Cookbook for the Lunch-Box Set. illus. by Susan Mitchell. 192p. index. CIP. S & S. 2009. Tr $21.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-8268-5. LC 2009008567. Gr 3–6—This colorful and slick offering is divided into nine chapters, most focusing on dishes for specific events like bake sales, family picnics, and sleepovers. Brief general cooking tips are also included, along with advice on manners relating to various foods (as Deen notes in a foreword, "In the South, manners have always been important…."). This old-fashioned tone prevails, and Deen's many fans will eat it up. Recipes range from easy (German Chocolate Pies involve no more than assembling ingredients in a prepared pie shell) to difficult (Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Icing involves carefully rolling a thin baked cake). Many of the savory dishes are hearty and rich, like the Bacon-Cheddar Meatloaf. This book excels at having wonderfully complete safety precautions. Each recipe is accompanied by a pictured list of ingredients and utensils needed, but nutritional information is not provided. The illustrations show a multicultural cast of characters, yet Deen sug gests wearing Santa hats for a "holiday bake sale," with nary a mention of Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. So while this won't be for everyone, it will go over well in many communities, especially where the author's TV show is popular.—Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL FLANNERY, Tim. We Are the Weather Makers: The History of Climate Change. adapt. by Sally M. Walker. 303p. photos. bibliog. index. notes. Web sites. Candlewick. 2009. RTE $17.99. ISBN 978-0-7636-3656-2. LC 2008939840. Gr 9 Up—This adaptation of Flannery's 2005 adult publication shows the results of meticulous research and superb grounding in scientific facts. It lays out, in great detail, the ways in which humans have changed our weather and the possible outcomes for us and our planet if we continue as we are going. Clearly labeled illustrations accompany difficult concepts and greatly aid in understanding the sometimes-complicated climate models. Each chapter ends with a "Call to Action" describing how humans can make relatively simple changes in our lifestyle to reduce our impact on the planet. Yet, despite the many great aspects of this book, one issue clearly reduces its usefulness. The research and issues surrounding global warming are changing at an incredible pace and the adaptation presented here, while doing some updates, is not sufficiently current. For example, Chapter 22 covers the Kyoto Protocol, which, though mightily relevant in 2005, is being eclipsed by the upcoming Copenhage n (December 2009) conference, where the United States is poised to play a much more involved role. The Copenhagen Climate Conference is not mentioned. Some of the research on animals (harp seals, for example) that are endangered does not update past 2005. Additionally, the sections entitled "Call to Action" are often aimed at adults rather than teens. Not many teens will be weatherproofing their homes, checking water heaters, or buying new appliances—just yet anyway—and this disconnect is jarring.—Denise Schmidt, San Francisco Public Library, CA GALLOWAY, Priscilla, with Dawn Hunter. Adventures on the Ancient Silk Road. 164p. maps. photos. reprods. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Annick, dist. by Firefly. Dec. 2009. Tr $24.95. ISBN 978-1-55451-198-3; pap. $14.95. ISBN 978-1-55451-197-6. LC C2009-902473-X. Gr 6–8—The monk Xuanzang, the conqueror Genghis Khan, and the merchant Marco Polo each traveled the Silk Road, years apart. Their journeys, by different routes and for different motives, are gripping historical narratives, sensitively and excitingly fictionalized here, in language that is lively and descriptive, clear but not oversimplified. Vibrant reproductions of art and photos of artifacts leap off every colorful page. Descriptions of smells, sounds, and tastes are used to complement the abundant visuals, and the three stories are artfully structured to maximize drama and hold interest. Sidebars extend the book's reach with information on geography, language, religion, art, architecture, food, animals, and, naturally, silk manufacture. Maps, further-reading lists, a brief update to today's Road, and an index add to the learning value. Readers will be both riveted and informed.—Patricia D. Lothrop, St. George's School, Newport, RI GIBLIN, James Cross. The Rise and Fall of Senator Joe McCarthy. 304p. photos. reprods. bibliog. index. notes. CIP. Clarion. Dec. 2009. Tr $22. ISBN 978-0-618-61058-7. LC 2009015005. Gr 7–10—Giblin includes considerable information about McCarthy's background and earlier career, but devotes most of the book to his election to the Senate and use of intimidation and smear tactics to gain enormous political power before his eventual public disgrace and early, alcohol-related death. The author provides limited background and context about the public fear of communism, but his main focus is on McCarthy's actions and the damage they did to innocent people and organizations. He includes extensive detail about McCarthy's campaigns and Senate hearings, which occasionally makes for dry reading. However, that problem is eclipsed by the weaknesses of the author's sources and his dated perspective on the McCarthy and early Cold War era. His most cited sources are biographies by Thomas Reeves (Stein & Day, 1982) and journalist Tom Wicker (Houghton, 2006), but he also repeatedly cites Wikipedia and the Columbia Encyclopedia. Although his source discussion mentions recent scholarship based upon declassified materials in the U.S. and the Soviet Union that documents Soviet espionage and penetration into the American government from the 1930s through the Cold War, he does not adequately take those discoveries into account. McCarthy's behavior and methods were inexcusable, but his crusade makes more sense when placed into the larger context of Cold War fears and the peril that those on the left, many admirers of the ideals of communism, faced when Americans began to view the Soviets as enemies and those who had associated with them as traitors. Excellent quality archival photos and political cartoons appear throughout. An additional title.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO GINSBERG, Blaze. Episodes: My Life in Syndication. 208p. Roaring Brook. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-1-59643-461-9. LC number unavailable. Gr 9 Up—In her introduction to this book, Debra Ginsberg, Blaze's mother, explains how her son once verbalized what he thought was the solution to his autism; this solution involved a verbal picture of a missing wire that could not be replaced. In writing this book, Blaze has organized the activities around him into an understandable format so he is now able to make sense of and function within the world. He has found the replacement for his missing wire by portraying the important events within his high school years as episodes of a television show. They are not always from the same show and do not necessarily contain the same cast of characters; however, there are a number of shows that have several episodes and characters that have continuous roles. While the premise of this book is intriguing, and the idea that the author could have an outlet for self-expression is appealing, the writing itself is often redundant and tedious in the same way that episodes of anyone's everyday life would become tedious if they were written out in a similar format. While Ginsberg is to be commended for "telling it like it is," it's probably more than most readers want or need to know.—Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD HALL, M. C. Panama Canal. ISBN 978-1-60694-450-9. LC 2009018094. HAMEN, Susan E. Industrial Revolution. ISBN 978-1-60694-449-3. LC 2009018093. ea vol: 48p. (Events in American History Series). maps. photos. reprods. chron. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Rourke. 2009. PLB $32.79. Gr 4–6—Both of these attractive titles provide introductory information in a clear and readable format. The texts are supplemented by large photos, illustrations, and maps, but their bibliographies are limited to Web sites. The first book begins with a description of the Isthmus of Panama and French efforts to build a canal on it. Hall then discusses Theodore Roosevelt's assumption of the project, the enormous efforts necessary to build it and conquer the diseases that decimated workers, and the current operation and continuing importance of the canal. Although it does not provide the detail found in Tim McNeese's The Panama Canal (Gale, 1997) and Ann Graham Gaines's The Panama Canal in American History (Enslow, 1999), its short chapters and easy vocabulary are well suited to middle graders. Hamen opens with an account of Samuel Slater's mill, the first in America, followed by discussion of the Industrial Revolution in England and its migration to the United States, where it quickly transformed agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, and communication. The author also analyzes the economic and social consequences of industrialization, especially the exploitation of labor. This book is more comprehensive than Sean Price's Smokestacks and Spinning Jennys (Heinemann, 2006) and is a good companion to Alice Flanagan's The Lowell Mill Girls (Compass Point, 2005), which focuses on women in the industrial workforce. Both titles are solid additions to most collections.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO HINDS, Kathryn. Everyday Life in the Renaissance. 327p. ISBN 978-0-7614-4483-1. LC 2008054829. HINDS, Kathryn. Everyday Life in the Roman Empire. 320p. photos. ISBN 978-0-7614-4484-8. LC 2009005913. ea vol: reprods. bibliog. further reading. glossary. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Marshall Cavendish/Benchmark. 2009. Tr $29.95. Gr 6 Up—These two volumes are compilations from Hinds's "Life in the Renaissance" and "Life in the Roman Empire" series (both Benchmark, 2004), but with new introductions and more illustrations. Both books combine clear, bold text with vivid reproductions of period paintings, frescoes, and sculptures, making for stunning presentations. The first title covers life in Renaissance courts, cities, countryside, and the church of the Reformation era. Hinds explores the cultural milieu of popes, princes, monks, working women, and courtiers, in the process revealing much about the world inhabited by Shakespeare, Machiavelli, Martin Luther, and the Medici. A generous number of sidebars offer up chronologies, poems, songs, recipes, and more. Roman Empire discusses patricians, the city, the countryside, and religion. Chronicled are the lives of both urban and rural men and women from all classes as they constructed a remarkable and dynamic civilization. Critical facets of the lives of slaves, artisans, farmers, and soldiers are lucidly discussed with a logical amount of readable and entertaining detail. With lively writing and a litany of monumental art, literature, and individuals, these are worthy resources for all libraries in need of historical materials for reports, projects, and general information.—Brian Odom, Pelham Public Library, AL JUDSON, Karen. Religion and Government: Should They Mix? 128p. (Controversy! Series). charts. photos. reprods. bibliog. further reading. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Marshall Cavendish/Benchmark. 2009. Tr $25.95. ISBN 978-0-7614-4235-6. LC 2008044483. Gr 9 Up—For readers fascinated with the ways in which religion and government work, or try not to work, together in America, this introduction will provide much food for thought. Judson begins with George W. Bush's establishment of an office for faith-based initiatives and then discusses the history of what has become, in Jefferson's famous phrase, a "wall of separation between Church & State." Each chapter examines a different sphere of influence, from politics to education and social welfare, including influential court cases that form the backbone of current policy. An overview of the role of religion in international governments, especially in the Islamic world, provides an illuminating contrast with the American system. Kathyln Gay's Church and State (Millbrook, 1992) has a similar scope, but Judson's book is more up-to-date and has more photographs.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM LAMBERT, Deborah. Adjectives: Using American Sites and Symbols to Learn About Adjectives. ISBN 978-1-60596-048-7; ISBN 978-1-60596-049-4. LC 2009001954. LAMBERT, Deborah. Adverbs: Using American Indian Art and Culture to Learn About Adverbs. ISBN 978-1-60596-050-0; ISBN 978-1-60596-051-7. LC 2009001957. LAMBERT, Deborah. Nouns: Using Cultures of the World to Learn About Nouns. ISBN 978-1-60596-046-3; ISBN 978-1-60596-047-0. LC 2009001952. LAMBERT, Deb orah. Pronouns: Using American Holidays to Learn About Pronouns. ISBN 978-1-60596-043-2; ISBN 978-1-60596-619-9. LC 2009001948. LAMBERT, Deborah. Verbs: Using Natural Wonders of the World to Learn About Verbs. ISBN 978-1-60596-044-9; ISBN 978-1-60596-045-6. LC 2009001949. ea vol: 24p. (Learning to Write Series). charts. photos. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Weigl. 2009. PLB $24.45; pap. $8.95. Gr 3–6—These books offer traditional grammar lessons, incorporating definitions and utilizing exercises on how to find and identify the various parts of speech. The paragraphs to read and review share a common theme, which adds to the educational value of the series. New terms are followed by an exercise to help reinforce the concepts. Instruction emphasizes sight reading, reading aloud, and writing. Readers are asked to keep a notebook and follow the exercises. However, no answers are provided, so students might need someone to check their work. Each section is clearly labeled and a nice selection of color and black-and-white photographs breaks up the texts. Oddly, the books all state that there are five parts of speech, having excluded prepositions, conjunctions, and interjections. Also, all of the books listed for further research are Weigl publications. Still, these books might be good choices for students who seek structured exercises. ESL or literacy students might e njoy the grammar lessons while learning about American and world cultures.—June Shimonishi, Torrance Public Library, CA LEVETE, Sarah. Coming of Age. ISBN 978-1-4358-5350-8. LC 2008052645. LEVETE, Sarah. Death. ISBN 978-1-4358-5351-5. LC 2008052890. RANDALL, Ronne. Birth. ISBN 978-1-4358-5349-2. LC 2008052644. RANDALL, Ronne. Marriage. ISBN 978-1-4358-5348-5. LC 2008052648. ea vol: 48p. (Journey of Life Series). charts. photos. reprods. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Rosen Central. 2009. PLB $26.50. Gr 5–8—These books highlight traditions and ceremonies as practiced in Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism. The authors also mention customs from several other cultures. The books are attractively illustrated with color photos and drawings, and include short excerpts from sacred texts. Unfortunately, Levete and Randall assume readers have a basic religious background, particularly in the Christianity sections with unexplained references to Adam and Eve, accepting Jesus as one's savior, the Messiah, and so on. The glossaries are abbreviated and incomplete, sometimes omitting crucial terms such as "baptism," "font," "puberty," "fasting," "mitzvah," "shroud," and "crucifix" (many words aren't in the index, either). Although the books contain helpful charts summarizing religious practices, using them requires much flipping back and forth to recall what the specialized vocabulary means. In addition to surprising errors and omissions, there are discrepa ncies between some illustrations and the text, while other photos raise unanswered questions. Finally, "Modern Debate" boxes, featuring topics such as the hijab and circumcision, don't provide enough material for children unfamiliar with them. Despite these flaws, these titles represent a valiant effort and could be useful in classes on religion and society. Life stages are generally discussed (albeit briefly) in books about specific religions, but no other series for this age treats them individually.—Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY LEVY, Janet. Iran and the Shia. further reading. ISBN 978-1-4358-5282-2. LC 2008049268. ORR, Tamra B. Iran and Nuclear Weapons. ISBN 978-1-4358-5281-5. LC 2008046964. SHAPERA, Paul M. Iran's Religious Leaders. further reading. ISBN 978-1-4358-5283-9. LC 2008047709. WOLNY, Philip. Iran and Iraq: Religion, War, and Geopolitics. further reading. ISBN 978-1-4358-5280-8. LC 2008046972. ea vol: 80p. (Understanding Iran Series). photos. reprods. bibliog . glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Rosen. 2009. PLB $30.60. Gr 8 Up—Levy's text contains much of the same information as other titles: the origins of Islam, the rise and fall of the Shah, the Islamic Revolution, the structure of the government, and Iran's relations with its Muslim neighbors. As a stand-alone volume, it gives a brief but wide-ranging introduction to modern Iran, but otherwise feels cobbled together. No mention is made of Mosaddeq, the popularly elected prime minister who was overthrown in favor of installing the Shah; Religious Leaders includes a page on this part of Iran's history. Orr opens with an overview of nuclear technology and international nuclear treaties, and moves on to Iran's stated determination to join the "club of nuclear countries." She makes the claim that President Ahmadinejad belongs to a sect of Islam that believes in encouraging violence to bring about the return of the Twelfth Imam and connects this belief to Iran's nuclear program; this is unfortunately not explained in any more detail. R eligious Leaders has much of the same information as Shia, an introduction to the religion and a brief history of the Islamic Revolution. This title delves more deeply into the structure of the Iranian government and includes a chapter on foreign policy. The Five Pillars of Islam are described slightly differently than in Shia, which might be confusing for readers who have access to both titles. Neither book mentions current efforts in Shia theology to ease tension between Sunni and Shia, giving the subject a somewhat one-sided feel. Wolny covers the eight-year war between the neighboring countries, the religious divide between Shia Iran and Sunni-controlled Iraq, and Iran's support of Shia movements within the country. America's relationship with Iran and Operation Iraqi Freedom also receive chapters of their own. Overall, these are decent if brief introductions to a country that is very much in the news.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM MACZULAK, Anne. Cleaning Up the Environment: Hazardous Waste Technology. 226p. (Green Technology Series). charts. diags. photos. appendix. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Facts On File. 2009. Tr $40. ISBN 978-0-8160-7198-2. LC 2008042367. Gr 9 Up—This comprehensive and somewhat technical discussion of the various methods used for the cleanup of environmental waste will be a valuable addition to science units. A section on the evaluation of the contaminants present at a waste site leads to a chapter on the variety of methods available for remediation. Brownfields and superfund sites are explored with specific emphasis on the particular problems encountered in the cleanup of rivers, lakes, and other water-based sites. Case studies focus on specific incidents such as the Exxon Valdez oil spill. A thorough appendix offers numerous charts with summaries of environmental laws, organizations involved with related concerns, as well as the equipment and microbes in use today. Captioned, full-color photos and diagrams and sidebars add information. A comprehensive glossary will aid students with the technical terminology, and a long list of both print and online resources encourages further study. Oddly, the chart en umerating Congressional environmental laws ends in 1990. This is a vitally important subject not often discussed in environmental literature and is a welcome addition for use in classroom studies and for those considering a career in the field.—Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY MARCOVITZ, Hal. Religious Fundamentalism. 104p. (Compact Research Series). charts. photos. chron. further reading. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. ReferencePoint. 2009. PLB $25.95. ISBN 978-1-60152-082-1. LC 2009000420. Gr 9 Up—Marcovitz focuses this study of the social and political effects of fundamentalism on Christianity in America and Islam in other countries, although fundamentalist Hinduism, Judaism, and Buddhism also receive mention. The strength of this series is its statistics-heavy format: each chapter has a section on primary-source quotes and useful bar and pie graphs showing demographic information. Chapters in this title cover the extent of religious fundamentalism in different communities, its influence on individual rights, its impact on violence and terrorism, and the question of how governments ought to respond to it. End matter includes a spotty time line of the history of fundamentalism beginning with the birth of Islam through the attacks in Mumbai in 2008.—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM MORDHORST, Heidi. Pumpkin Butterfly: Poems from the Other Side of Nature. illus. by Jenny Reynish. 32p. Boyds Mills/Wordsong. 2009. RTE $16.95. ISBN 978-1-59078-620-8. LC number unavailable. Gr 4 Up—This mostly solid collection of 23 poems spans the four seasons through a variety of poetic forms and formats. While some will speak to middle grade readers, others reach toward the broader knowledge base of teens and adults, using sophisticated concepts ("Guest List: Charles Darwin's Garden Party" is a rhymed list of species of living things); conceits ("a gust of butterflies" rises from a pumpkin patch—"the ghosts of our pumpkins…untethered from earth"); and literary phraseology ("my dark doppelgänger/freed by the sun's high call"). Piles of fallen leaves, the behavior of squirrels and raccoons, angels in the snow, blossoming trees, summer shadows, insects, sunflowers, and lightning storms are the subjects here. Reynish clearly enjoys using elements of ethnic- and folk-art decoration and detailing in her colorful watercolor paintings that create frames or backgrounds for many of the selections. Douglas Florian's Handsprings (HarperCollins, 2006) , Joyce Sidman's Butterfly Eyes and Other Secrets of the Meadow (Houghton, 2006), and J. Patrick Lewis's July Is a Mad Mosquito (S & S, 1994) would make good companions to Mordhorst's volume because each of these fine collections offers an entirely different sort of poetry on nature and seasons.—Susan Scheps, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH REGAN, Sally. The Vampire Book: The Legends, the Lore, the Allure. unpaged. illus. photos. DK. 2009. Tr $19.99. ISBN 978-0-7566-5551-8. LC number unavailable. Gr 5 Up—The vampire is truly a deathless figure that has frightened and captivated society over the decades. But the image of the beautiful, powerful, yet mysterious bloodsucker that mesmerizes contemporary culture is a far cry from the early legends found throughout the globe. This guide covers the origins and evolution of vampires throughout history, giving a worldwide perspective on legends, mythology, and lore, from African tales of terror to blood-drinking witches of Southeast Asia. It also covers vampires in literature, film, and television, demonstrating that their hypnotic and spellbinding power is here to stay. The vivid colors in the often full-page art leap from the pages, and the bold font demands attention. Readers who have been swept up in the "Twilight" craze will thoroughly enjoy this alluring introduction.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY RICHARDSON, Gillian. Kaboom!: Explosions of All Kinds. 83p. photos. reprods. bibliog. further reading. index. CIP. Annick, dist. by Firefly. 2009. Tr $22.95. ISBN 978-1-55451-204-1; pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-1-55451-203-4. LC C2009-901099-2. Gr 5–8—With comic-style sound-effect headings and fact boxes galore, Kaboom! highlights the supercharged of the natural and manmade worlds, from astronomy, geology, biology, herbology, and entomology to chemistry, mechanics, pyrotechnics, and art. Text is broken into asymmetrical panels for bite-size explanations. Some explosions are captured in sequence and detail with historical and high-speed photography and illustrations in comic-style panel frames. Though the subjects, especially flatulence, will interest younger students, the vocabulary and background knowledge more typical of middle schoolers is required for full appreciation, especially for the astronomy explosions. Kaboom! is an engrossing attention-getter, effectively tapping the sensationalism of all types of blasts.—S. McClendon, Friends School of Atlanta, Decatur, GA ROSS, Stewart. Moon: Science, History, and Mystery. 128p. photos. reprods. chron. glossary. index. Web sites. Scholastic. 2009. PLB $18.99. ISBN 978-0-545-12732-5. LC number unavailable. Gr 4–6—Jam-packed with information, this colorful oversize volume chronicles the race to land a person on the Moon. Alternating chapters describe Moon mythologies and superstitions, the history of astronomical study, and the efforts involved in launching a lunar expedition, each of which is given a keyed label on the contents page. The photographs pop with color and action, and provide insight into such everyday activities as the astronauts eating breakfast contrasted with the massive machinery required to put them into space. The chapters on mythology use art reproductions from many cultures across the centuries to show the worldwide and timeless fascination with the Moon, including science-fiction movies. The invaluable contribution of Muslim scientists is included in more than one of the "Moon Facts" chapters, which contrast the growth of scientific knowledge with lunar myths, stories, astrology, and science fiction. A one-page summary of Moon Facts provides quick refer ence, as does the Apollo Program time line. This book is similar to Jacqueline Mitton's Moon (DK, 2009), but its multicultural history will expand any collection.—Frances E. Millhouser, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA SHANGE, Ntozake. We Troubled the Waters. illus. by Rod Brown. unpaged. CIP. HarperCollins/Amistad. 2009. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-133735-2; PLB $17.89. ISBN 978-0-06-133737-6. LC 2008025360. Gr 6 Up—The events and people of the Civil Rights era, from the famous to the ordinary, are brought to life through stirring poetry and striking illustrations. In its opening pages, blue skies, warm sunlight, and lush greenery gives way to the unspeakable reality of Jim Crow in the form of a faceless body that tarnishes the tranquil scene. The simple day-to-day drudgery of scrubbing floors and washing laundry is eloquently described in "Cleaning Gal." A palpable sense of foreboding and terror is apparent as the perils of trying to cast a ballot in the segregated South are detailed in "You Vote/You Die." Unflinching words and stark artwork portray the horror of lynching in "Roadkill" and "Crying Trees." Paintings depicting solemn-faced children, some in tattered clothes and others nicely dressed, give visual testimony to the strong desire to obtain an education in "Booker T. Washington School, 1941." Inspirational verses express the philosophies of Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcol m X, and Rosa Parks, capturing the essence of these Civil Rights icons and why they were special to so many people. Historical events like the March on Washington are given a new voice as poetic language and panoramic views express emotion in a manner that standard factual treatment cannot. The triumph of the spirit and the determination and bravery of famous and everyday people are expressed on each page of this exceptional book. It should be in every collection.—Margaret Auguste, Franklin Middle School, Somerset, NJ SICKELS, Amy. Richard Peck. 124p. (Who Wrote That? Series). photos. reprods. bibliog. chron. further reading. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Chelsea House. 2009. PLB $30. ISBN 978-0-7910-9530-0. LC 2008035035. Gr 7–9—This straightforward biography looks at the life and writing career of this popular YA author. Much of the material is pulled from previously published interviews, and the narrative sometimes seems like a dry recitation of facts and quotes. The photographs, other than a few of Peck himself, do not add much to the text. For example, there are stock photos of a typewriter, a mall, and random children from the 1940s. Endnotes are extensive and include lists of Peck's books and characters. This book might be useful for author reports, but there isn't much new material here. Try Don Gallo's Richard Peck: The Past Is Paramount (Scarecrow, 2008) for a neatly organized and thoroughly researched analysis that includes information gleaned from Gallo's conversations with the author.—Kristen Oravec, Flint Hill Middle School, Oakton, VA VOGEL, Carole Garbuny & Yossi Leshem. The Man Who Flies with Birds. 64p. diags. maps. photos. reprods. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Lerner/Kar-Ben. 2009. PLB $18.95. ISBN 978-0-8225-7643-3. LC 2008031198. Gr 4–8—At age 25, as a young biologist with the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel, Leshem knew that he wanted to become a raptor expert. When he earned his Ph.D. in ornithology, he decided to study the dangers that the 35 species of raptors that travel through Israel encounter during migration. He approached the Israeli Air Force, promising that, with sufficient funding, he could map the migration routes of large birds and provide up-to-the minute reports of where they were flying, thereby eliminating some of the thousands of bird strikes suffered by Air Force planes—some of them worth as much as five million dollars. The study of birds' migration; their detection of the Earth's magnetic fields; their use of thermals to save energy; and the physics of flying involved hundreds of people in 17 countries and a network of observation stations, radar, and aircraft. The information helped the Israeli Air Force to drastically lower the number of bird strikes, s aving lives and aircraft. Leshem's fascinating life, his undaunted determination to spread awareness of birds and wildlife protection, and his amazing accomplishments are a clear indication that anything is possible. The book is heavily illustrated with good-quality color photos, maps, and diagrams, many of them captioned with incredible facts about wildlife and migration. This inspiring title on a most timely topic will appeal to those who are fascinated with wildlife, Earth science, and technology.—Susan Scheps, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH ZABLUDOFF, Marc. Dire Wolf. CIP. ISBN 978-0-7614-3998-1. LC 2008047194. ZABLUDOFF, Marc. Gastornis. ISBN 978-0-7614-4000-0. LC 2008035939. ZABLUDOFF, Marc. Giant Ground Sloth. CIP. ISBN 978-0-7614-3997-4. LC 2008042148. ea vol: illus. by Peter Bollinger. 32p. (Prehistoric Beasts Series). photos. chron. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. Marshall Cavendish/Benchmark. 2009. Tr $25.95. Gr 5–8—The dire wolf was a stockier version of the gray wolf but had a smaller brain. Gastornis was a six- or seven-foot bird that weighed between 200 and 400 pounds and had stumplike wings. The giant ground sloth was about 20 feet long, weighed 4 tons, and could stand on its hind legs to reach leaves high in trees. Each book describes the possible life and appearance of the creature and what may have caused its extinction. Zabludoff also discusses where its bones were found and what the land was like when it was alive. In bright color illustrations, Bollinger convincingly portrays the possible appearance of these animals. Background vegetation often looks real, but the animals appear to hover on top of it, not quite blending in. Additional purchases.—Cynde Suite, Bartow County Library System, Adairsville, GA