Adult Fiction for Teens

While I primarily read YA fiction these days I do enjoy some adult fiction every once in a while. This feature looks at some of the adult fiction I am reading and examine its appeal for those who prefer Young Adult literature

House Rules by Jodi Picoult
Jacob Hunt is a teenage boy with Asperger's syndrome. He's hopeless at reading social cues or expressing himself well to others, and like many kids with AS, Jacob has a special focus on one subject -- in his case, forensic analysis. He's always showing up at crime scenes, thanks to the police scanner he keeps in his room, and telling the cops what they need to do...and he's usually right. But then his town is rocked by a terrible murder and, for a change, the police come to Jacob with questions. All of the hallmark behaviors of Asperger's -- not looking someone in the eye, stimulatory tics and twitches, flat affect -- can look a lot like guilt to law enforcement personnel. Suddenly, Jacob and his family, who only want to fit in, feel the spotlight shining directly on them. (amazon)

House Rules is a great for teens who enjoy reading YA issue fiction where a character or family struggle to overcome something difficult. Those interested in quirky and sarcastic characters will also find something to love in the voice of Jacob. For teens wanting to explore topics not often found in YA fiction, House Rules provides interesting insight into both Asperger’s and forensic science. Finally, Picoult easy writing style also make a novel this size accessible for teens, even of a slightly younger age.

YA Connection: Silent to the Bone by E.L.Konigsburg

Coming Soon to a Library Near You

Coming Soon to a Library Near You is a weekly feature inspired by Jill at Breaking the Spine that looks at upcoming books.

This Week’s Book: Blood Magic

Author: Tessa Gratton

Release Date: April 26 2010
Summary: Everywhere Silla Kennicott turns she sees blood. She can't stop thinking about her parents alleged murder-suicide. She is consumed by a book filled with spells that arrives mysteriously in the mail. The spells share one common ingredient: blood, and Silla is more than willing to cast a few. What's a little spilled blood if she can uncover the truth? And then there's Nick—the new guy at school who makes her pulse race. He has a few secrets of his own and is all too familiar with the lure of blood magic. Drawn together by a combination of fate and chemistry, Silla and Nick must find out who else in their small Missouri town knows their secret and will do anything to take the book and magic from Silla

It sounds a little creepy, but different from typical YA paranormal stuff so I’m very excited to give it a try.

Spirit Bound

Spirit Bound (Vampire Academy Novel)
By Richelle Mead
2010
489 pages
Book 5

“one of them dies tonight. Lissa or Dimitri”

Summary: As much as Rose would like to move on and be happy with Adrian and Lissa now that she’s returned from Russia, she is struggling and Dimitri with his creepy letters is making it worse. If there is a chance she can bring him back she has to take it, regardless of the risk. Once again in a quest to save her love, Rose unleashes a string of unfortunate events that might be too much, even for her. Victor is on the loose, the queen’s life is threatened and Rose is a suspect. In a final show down Rose will have to choose between Lissa and Dimitri once and for all.

Review: Mead does the nearly impossible and keeps all the novels in the series as engaging and compelling as the first. While some of the storylines are beginning to get a little old (Dimitri), there are a lot of new developments to captivate the reader. Adrian is given more story time and there is more insight into court life which gives the audience the feeling of a larger subplot brewing. There is non-stop action, quite a few twists and turns, surprise cliff hangers and a few steamy scenes. Readers who enjoy vampire stories will be hard pressed to find a more exciting series. I cannot wait for the final book.

Other books in the series: Vampire Academy (2007), Frostbite (2008) Shadow Kiss (2008), Blood Promise (2009) and Last Sacrifice (Dec 2010)

If you liked Vampire Academy you might also enjoy: The Darkest Powers series by Kelley Armstrong, Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins, A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray, Evernight by Claudia Grey and Blue Bloods by Melissa De la Cruz

Author website: http://www.richellemead.com/index.htm

Rating: W4/4 C4/4 P3/4 O3/4 PP3.5/4 CR3/4
Grade Level Interest: high J or S

Coming Soon

Coming Soon to a Library Near You is a weekly feature inspired by Jill at Breaking the Spine that looks at upcoming books.

This Week’s Book: Ten Miles Past Normal
Author: Frances O’Roark Dowell
Release Date: March 2011
Summary: Janie Gorman wants to be normal. The problem with that: she’s not. She’s smart and creative and a little bit funky. She’s also an unwilling player in her parents’ modern-hippy, let’s-live-on-a-goat-farm experiment . This, to put it simply, is not helping Janie reach that “normal target It would be nice to go back to that old suburban life…or some grown up, high school version of it, complete with nice, normal boyfriends who wear crew neck sweaters and like social studies. So, what’s wrong with normal? Well, kind of everything. She knows that, of course, why else would she learn bass and join Jam Band, how else would she know to idolize infamous wild-child and high school senior Emma (her best friend Sarah’s older sister), why else would she kind of be falling in "like" with a boy named Monster. Janie was going for normal, but she missed her mark by about ten miles…and we mean that as a compliment. (amazon)

It sounds like a really funky and kinda cute story. Plus, I love characters that are not ‘normal’.

Fat Cat

Fat Cat
By Robin Brande
2009
327 pages

Summary: When Cat’s science project challenges her to think outside the box, she decides to experiment with a new lifestyle and lose some weight. Not only will she win the science fair beating out her ex-best friend and arch enemy Matt, but she’ll look hot doing it. Yet despite her desire to beat and humiliate Matt, she finds herself wishing he would notice her new transformation, and learns that not everything is black and white when it comes to boys

Review: Fat Cat is hilarious, earnest and totally fresh. Readers will be drawn to Cat’s honesty and struggle as she comes to accept who she is. Everyone is a little insecure, and the character of Cat puts a voice to those insecurities. While I really enjoyed reading about the process the character goes through in changing her lifestyle, I almost wish she hadn’t lost the weight. It would have given the story a better overall message. The pacing was a little slow at times, but the transformation of the character propels you through. Themes of love, friendship and self-awareness in combination with Cat’s witty and sarcastic voice make this novel a winning choice for those who enjoy realistic fiction with an edge.

Also by Robin Brande: Evolution, Me & Other Freaks of Nature

If you liked Fat Cat, you might also enjoy: Pretties by Scott Westerfeld, An Abundance of Katherines by John Green, Honey Baby Sweetheart by Deb Caletti, and Getting Revenge on Lauren Wood by Eileen Cook

Non-Fiction Connection: Okay, So Now You’re a Vegetarian: Advice & 100 Recipes form One Teen to Another by Lauren Butts and Generation Green: The Ultimate Teen Guide to Living an Eco-Friendly Life by Linda Siversten

Author website: http://robinbrande.com/

Rating: W3/4 C3/4 P3/4 O3/4 PP3/4 CR3/4
Grade Level Interest: S

The Maze Runner

The Maze Runner
By James Dashner
2009
374 pages

Summary: When Thomas wakes up in the lift, his memory is blank. But he’s not alone. When the lift’s doors open, Thomas finds himself surrounded by kids who welcome him to the Glade—a large, open expanse surrounded by stone walls. Just like Thomas, the Gladers don’t know why or how they got to the Glade. All they know is that every morning the stone doors to the maze that surrounds them have opened. Every night the doors are closed tight, protecting them from monsters. Thomas might be more important than he could ever guess. If only he could unlock the dark secrets buried within his mind. (from amazon)

Review: Dashner is a talented writer who puts the reader right in the middle of his novel. The world building is slow and at times splotchy which creates a parallel experience where both Thomas and the reader try to make sense of the Glade and the Maze. While the book is a little bit more science fiction that I tend to enjoy, I was not overwhelmed by the language and found that it was very easy to follow. There is a lot of action and suspense and the book has a bit of a Hunger Games feel to it with characters fighting for their lives. It also has a few shocking twists and turns which make this a highly entertaining first novel. Great selection for a teen book club.

Also by James Dashner: The Scorch Trials and the 13th Reality series

If you liked The Maze Runner, you might also enjoy: Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins, Feed by M. T. Anderson, Girl in the Arena by Lise Haines, City of Ember by Jeanne DePrau

Additional Info: Check out this awesome (and creepy) book trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2-zYcD-dDs

Author website: http://www.jamesdashner.com/

Rating:W3.5/4 C3/4 P3/4 O3.5/4 PP3.5/4 CR3/4
Grade Level: JS

Book Blogger Hop

Time for the Blogger Hop from Crazy for BooksWhat a great idea! I love following readers blogs almost more than I like blogging myself.

What a great way to get out there and meet new people who share the same interests as you.

This week’s Question: What do you consider the most important in a story: The plot or the characters?

That’s a really tough question. I think generally I tend to read more for character. While I like a broad range of books, my favourite authors are ones who know how to write honest and beautifully complicated characters (John Green!).

From the Desk

One of my favourite things about being a Children and Youth librarian is that every morning someone puts on my desk all the new books that have arrived at our Branch for me to look over. It’s a really great way for me to know what we have in our collection, and I’m learning about all kinds of great new books.

Considering I don’t have time to read everything, I thought I would highlight some of the books that I find on my desk that look really interesting.

When Rose Wakes by Christopher Golden (2010) - Ever since sixteen-year-old Rose DuBois woke up from months in a coma with absolutely no memories, she’s had to start from scratch. She knows she loves her two aunts who take care of her, and that they all used to live in France, but everything else from her life before is a blank. Rose tries to push through the memory gaps and start her new life, attending high school and living in Boston with her aunts, who have seriously old world ideas. Especially when it comes to boys. But despite their seemingly irrational fears and odd superstitions, they insist Rose not worry about the eerie dreams she’s having, vivid nightmares that she comes to realize are strangely like the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty.

Coming Soon to a Library Near You

Coming Soon to a Library Near You is a weekly feature inspired by Jill at Breaking the Spine that looks at upcoming books.

This Week’s Book: Invincible Summer
Author: Hannah Moskowitz
Release Date: April 2011
Summary: Noah’s happier than I’ve seen him in months. So I’d be an awful brother to get in the way of that. It’s not like I have some relationship with Melinda. It was just a kiss. Am I going to ruin Noah’s happiness because of a kiss?

Across four sun-kissed, drama-drenched summers at his family’s beach house, Chase is falling in love, falling in lust, and trying to keep his life from falling apart.

This one sounds really cute and warm. I really like having cute realistic fiction like this told from a male point of view, it’s a nice change.

Wild Geese

Wild Geese
By Caroline Pignat
2010
Pg 313

Summary: In this sequel to the Governor General Award winner Greener Grass, Kit and Mick find themselves fleeing Ireland for Canada. Together they must battle the rough Atlantic waters, disease and cool winters in Canada. Kit is willing to give up everything to find her family, maybe even Mick despite everything he’s done for her. In this fascinating story of survival, family and love, Kit must struggle to define home and family.

Review: Despite Wild Geese being a second novel, readers could easily pick it up and read it as a stand alone. Kit’s story is captivating as the conditions of her journey worsen, making her experience all the more heroic. The pacing was quick and the writing style gritty and accessible. While some people may stumble with historical fiction, Pignat does a great job of keeping the reader interested and invested in the story by making Kit such a relatable character. Elements of Canadian history were especially appealing.

Also by Caroline Pignat: Greener Grass and Egghead

If you liked Wild Geese, you might also enjoy: The Sky is Falling by Kit Pearson, Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson and the Wednesday Wars by Gary Schmidt

Author website: http://carolinepignat.squarespace.com/

Rating: W4/4 C3.5/4 P3.5/4 O4/4 PP2.5/4 CR3/4
Grade Level Interest: JS

Blood Promise

Blood Promise (Vampire Academy)
By Richelle Mead
2009
503 pages
Book 4

“He was the man I loved, the man with whom I’d been so perfectly in sync that it was hard to know where I ended and where he began. My heart refused to let him go – even if he was technically a monster.”

Summary: Dimitri has been turned Strigoi, Rose has run off to find him and Lissa has been left back at school with a reckless new friend. Things are not good for those in the Vampire Academy series. Will Rose find Dimitri and if she does will she be able to kill him before he kills her and how will Lissa fair without her shadow kissed guardian to protect her?

Review: Blood Promise is a complex story, one that is incredibly well developed. It is rather fast-paced with respect to action and suspense. The author creates a lot of danger situations for all the main characters, leaving the reader at the edge of their seat. Yet there is still a lot of character and story development that adds depth and places the book within the larger series. Some of the story felt cyclical, but I enjoyed this novel a lot more than the previous two. A great addition to the series with enough action, romance and strong female characters to keep me wanting more.

Other books in the series: Vampire Academy (2007), Frostbite (2008) Shadow Kiss (2008), Spirit Bound (2010) and Last Sacrifice (Dec 2010)

If you liked Vampire Academy you might also enjoy: The Darkest Powers series by Kelley Armstrong, Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins, A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray, Evernight by Claudia Grey and Blue Bloods by Melissa De la Cruz

Author website: http://www.richellemead.com/index.htm

Rating: W4/4 C4/4 P3/4 O4/4 PP3.5/4 CR3/4
Grade Level Interest: high J or S

Book Blogger Hop

Time for the Blogger Hop from Crazy for BooksWhat a great idea! I love following readers blogs almost more than I like blogging myself.

What a great way to get out there and meet new people who share the same interests as you.

This week’s question: "What is the thing you like most about reading book blogs? Is it the reviews, author guest posts, articles, giveaways, or something else entirely?"

I think mostly the reviews. I don’t really read author posts or giveaways. I do enjoy memes, so I read people’s hop questions and I like seeing why people are excited for books on Wednesdays. I also like when people do a little something extra that shows their personality, so a non book related post, an article or just something random.

What about you?

From the Desk

One of my favourite things about being a Children and Youth librarian is that every morning someone puts on my desk all the new books that have arrived at our Branch for me to look over. It’s a really great way for me to know what we have in our collection, and I’m learning about all kinds of great new books.

Considering I don’t have time to read everything, I thought I would highlight some of the books that I find on my desk that look really interesting.

Northern Kids by Linda Goyette (2010) - Children and teenagers experience Canada’s North in a way that adults do not. They have shaped its history, and yet how often are they asked to tell its story? Northern Kids is a collection of tales about the unforgettable young people of the Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and remote regions of the western provinces. Based on personal interviews and thorough archival research, each true story is narrated in the voice of a young northerner. Travel along with these kids as they hunt for caribou or hidden gold, mush a dogsled team, climb over the Chilkoot Pass, float down the Yukon River on a homemade raft, and explore the Arctic tundra through every season.

Massive Snowstorm

Sorry for the non book post, but I wanted to let you see some of the excitement that has been happening in my town the last couple of days.

Today is the first day since Sunday that I can see the sky. My town (in Canada) has been hit with a massive snowstorm. It’s actually been pretty awesome. My husband’s law exams have been cancelled, my roommate’s school (she’s a teacher) has been shut down for three days and the library has been closed for two. The city is actually shut down today so that the snowploughs can fix the damage. It’s pretty epic. We’ve stayed in our PJ’s, played in the snow, watched Christmas movies, enjoyed home made soup and relaxed. We’ve had about 100cm (just over 3 feet) of snow. Such a fun way to kick off winter!!!

Coming Soon to a Library Near You

Coming Soon to a Library Near You is a weekly feature inspired by Jill at Breaking the Spine that looks at upcoming books.

This Week’s Book: Clarity
Author: Kim Harrington
Release Date: March 1 2011
Summary: Clarity "Clare" Fern sees things. Things no one else can see. Things like stolen kisses and long-buried secrets. All she has to do is touch a certain object, and the visions come to her. It's a gift. And a curse. When a teenage girl is found murdered, Clare's ex-boyfriend wants her to help solve the case-but Clare is still furious at the cheating jerk. Then Clare's brother, who has supernatural gifts of his own, becomes the prime suspect, and Clare can no longer look away.

I love the cover and the premise sounds pretty good. A little bit like Wake or Evermore

One Night that Changes Everything

One Night that Changes Everything
By Lauren Barnholdt
2010
242 pages

“And then I get it. They’re making me do the things that are in my notebook. All the things I’m afraid of.”

Summary: A lot can change in one night. Eliza’s secret notebook, the one that has a list of all the things she’s afraid of, has been stolen. And it seems to have fallen into the hands of the one person she doesn’t want to have it, her ex boyfriend Cooper. Now Cooper and his friends are threatening to post the notebook online, unless she starts doing all the things on the list. In a wild night of dares, adventure and giant leaps of faith, Eliza learns a lot about herself, her friends and maybe even some secrets about Cooper.

Review: One Night is a charming read. It’s fast paced and has a very similar feel to Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist. Barnholdt’s characters are usually witty, sarcastic and completely believable, and I think that Eliza is the best one she’s created thus far. Readers will connect with Eliza’s voice, sympathize with her fears and revel in her spunk. The friends add a fun extra dimension to the storyline and Cooper adds an element of sweetness and romance. It is a light read, so don’t expect a lot of plot development, but it is enjoyable and will definitely leave you feeling warm and fuzzy.

Also by Lauren Barnholdt: Watch Me, Two Way Street, Aces Up

If you liked One Night that Changes Everything, you might also enjoy: Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan, The Book of Luke by Jenny O’Connell, When it Happens by Susanne Colasanti, Bloomby Elizabeth Scott and The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

Author website: http://laurenbarnholdt.com/

Rating: W3/4 C3.5/4 P3.5/4 O3/4 PP3/4 CR2.5
Grade Level: JS

Random

Random
By Lesley Choyce
2010
162 pages

Summary: For 16 year old Joe life doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. Both of his parents were killed in a car accident, and four years later he is still trying to deal with the loss. Through a series of tape recordings, Joe tries to find meaning and purpose to his existence, something with which to move forward.

Review: Choyce’s novel is indeed random. There is a lot of meandering thoughts with not a lot of focus. However, this writing style creates a completely unique reading experience where you feel like you are having a very intimate conversation with the protagonist, that you’re privy to his innermost thoughts. While dry at times, Random actually does an amazing job of capturing the thought process of many teens. Joe is relatable in his brokenness, resulting in a story that is earnest with a lot of heart.

Also by Lesley Choyce: Raising Orion and The Book of Michael

Author website: http://www.lesleychoyce.com/

Rating: W3/4 C4/4 P2.5/4 O3.5/4 PP2/4 CR3/4
Grade Level: S

Trash to Treasure - November

Each month there are several books that I start to read but for one reason or another I just can’t get into them. I have a pretty low tolerance for the books I read, usually only giving them between 50-100 pages before I quit. There are just too many books to read and not enough time to “trudge” through something I’m not enjoying. However, I recently realized that I never mention them on here. So I’ve decided to do a monthly feature looking at some of the books I just couldn’t get into and why.

Forget you by Jennifer Echols (2010) – read 83 pages. I feel horrible about this one. I want to preface this by saying that I LOVED Going to Far, Echols first novel. For starters I could not connect with the main character. Zooey just wasn’t believable or interesting enough for me. That’s not saying that the character is poorly written, just that I wasn’t interested in her story. Secondly, and perhaps most importantly I feel as if I’ve read this novel before. It has a very similar feel to Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac by Gabrielle Zevin, which I read and enjoyed a whole lot more. I do think there are a lot of redeeming qualities about this novel, especially the character of Doug and his tenderness towards Zooey. I think readers who enjoy realistic fiction with a lot of romance will find something to like here. Unfortunately, I just couldn’t commit any more time to it.

The Book Scout, Reading is Bliss and Book Crazy all have positive reviews on their sites to check out.

Book Blogger Hop

Time for the Blogger Hop from Crazy for Books

What a great idea! I love following readers blogs almost more than I like blogging myself. What a great way to get out there and meet new people who share the same interests as you.

This week’s question: "What very popular and hyped book in the blogosphere did you NOT enjoy and how did you feel about posting your review?"

For me it was Forget-her-nots by Amy B White. People LOVE that book, and not just like it, but LOVE it. I couldn’t get into, and it was the first book I posted on my “Trash to Treasure” series. I was really worried I would get hate mail.

Nathaniel Fludd

Nathaniel Fludd: Beastologist Book: 1: Flight of the Phoenix by R.L.Lafevers

When his parents are lost at sea, 10 year old Nate finds himself staying with a distant family cousin who turns out to be the last remaining beastologist. While he would never consider himself an adventurer, it is not long before Nate finds himself whisked off to Arabia to find the world’s last phoenix before it lays its egg.

This short little book contains a lot of adventure and intrigue. Nate is a likable hero whose insecure awkwardness as he discovers who he really is will remind readers of a young Harry Potter. There are fun adventures, mystical creatures, humour and suspense. It’s a great introduction to the series and definitely hooks readers. Those who enjoy Harry Potter or want a light read will enjoy this series.

Author website found here

Grade: M

Book 2: The Basilisk’s Lair
Book 3: The Wyvern’s Treasure
Book 4: The Unicorn's Tale (March 2011)

Coming Soon to a Library Near You

Coming Soon to a Library Near You is a weekly feature inspired by Jill at Breaking the Spine that looks at upcoming books.

This Week’s Book: Bad Taste in Boys
Author: Carrie Harris
Release Date: July 2011
Summary: Kate Grable is horrified to find out that the football coach has given the team steroids. Worse yet, the steroids are having an unexpected effect, turning hot gridiron hunks into mindless flesh-eating zombies. No one is safe--not her cute crush Aaron, not her dorky brother, Jonah . . . not even Kate! She's got to find an antidote--before her entire high school ends up eating each other. So Kate, her best girlfriend, Rocky, and Aaron stage a frantic battle to save their town . . . and stay hormonally human.

I love cheesy wonderful zombie books. They remind me of reading R.L Stein books when I was a kid. Love them.

Scars

Scars
By Cheryl Rainfield
2010
233 pages

Summary: Kendra hasn’t felt safe since she started remembering gruesome images of her childhood sexual abuse. While she cannot bring herself to remember her attacker, she knows she’s getting closer. Unfortunately, she thinks HE knows too, because she thinks someone is following her. Not sure who she can trust, Kendra seeks comfort in Meghan, a girl from school with her own troubled past. Together they try to piece together the missing pieces, before Kendra runs out of time.

Review: Scars is a compelling and emotional read. While the writing was not as smoothly executed as some other books on the topic that I’ve read, there was a lot to make this novel stand out. Through Kendra’s memories the reader is slowly introduced to the abuse without having to read about it first hand. This allows for some distance between the reader and the protagonist, which can be incredibly helpful for some reading this type of novel. Further, the memories in some ways separated Kendra from the abuse, making the story not just about her as a victim, but also about her as an individual (a friend, a girlfriend, an artist, a cutter, a student, etc.). I thought elements such as the art therapy and the relationship with Meghan were well done and created depth to this novel. Those who enjoy issue fiction or who are looking for a window/mirror will definitely find something to like.

Also by Cheryl Rainfield: The Last Dragon

If you liked Scars, you might also enjoy: Such a Pretty Girl by Laura Wiess, Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott, Willow by Julia Joban

Additional Info:
Secret Shame website on self injury: http://selfharm.net/
Recover Your Life: Support and Community for those who self harm: http://www.recoveryourlife.com/
Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans Youthline: http://www.youthline.ca/

Here is a link to sexual assault centres in Southwestern Ontario. Please find one in your area if you need assistance.

Author website: http://www.cherylrainfield.com/

Rating: W2.5/4 C3/4 P3/4 O2.5/4 PP2.5 (issue fiction isn’t for everyone) CR4/4
Grade Level Interest: JS (some mature elements, but topic is very relevant to a younger audience. Easy to read, which also makes is accessible to a younger audience)

The Queen of Everything

The Queen of Everything
By Deb Caletti
2002
372 pages (paperback)

“People ask me all the time what having Vince MacKenzie for a father was like. What they mean is, was he always crazy?

Summary: Jordan finally has a normal life. She’s living with her normal father (and not her hippie mother), she’s got a best friend and a new boyfriend, everything is the way she wants it. That is until Gayle D’Angelo comes into her and her father’s life. Now her father isn’t sleeping, he’s drinking, being paranoid and acting really strange. Having an affair with married women is turning him into something Jordan doesn’t recognize, something dangerous and Jordan doesn’t know what to do.

Review: While The Queen of Everything definitely has a Caletti feel (slow, rich and purposeful writing), this story contains a lot more edge and drama. Readers of realistic fiction will enjoy Caletti’s everyday teen world with an authentic voice, but there is a lot of suspense and action to keep the story fast moving. The characters are flawed and captivating (pretty cute romance included) and the slow moving build in of violence and suspense make this a hard book to put down. Overall, it’s a very enjoyable read, one that crosses a lot of genres. While it might be a little old, it is still very relevant and would appeal to a wide audience.

Also by Deb Caletti: Honey, Baby, Sweetheart, Wild Roses, The Nature of Jade, The Six Rules of Maybe

If you liked The Queen of Everything, you might also enjoy: Margaux with an X by Ron Koertge, Stealing Heaven by Elizabeth Scott and Leftovers by Laura Wiess

Additional Info: If you like Deb Caletti’s books you might notice some of the characters and places showing up again and again. She has a pretty cool character and location map on her website here.

Author website: http://debcaletti.com/

Rating: W4/4 C3/4 P4/4 O3/4 PP3/4 CR1/4
Grade Level Interest: S

2011 Debut Author Challenge

I’ve decided to participate in the 2011 Debut Author challenge this year. Kristi from The Story Siren does such an amazing job putting it together, and I love supporting new authors. I’m committing to reading 12, hopefully I can read more.

2011 Debut Author Challenge participant information:
- The objective of the DAC is to read at least twelve novels from Young Adult or Middle Grade Authors. While twelve is the minimum there is no maximum limit! I encourage readers who can read more than twelve to do so!
- Anyone can join. You don't have to be a blogger, and you don't have to live in the United States.
- You do not have to have an blog written in English to participate.
- You can join at anytime. The challenge runs from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011.

Qualifying books:
- Books must be a Young Adult or Middle Grade novel.
- DO NOTE: Just because a book has a teen character or is about a teen, does not mean that it is necessarily a Young Adult novel.
- This must be the authors debut with a release date in 2011.
- If an author has a previous novel published under adult fiction/nonfiction or children's fiction/nonfiction, they can still qualify for the challenge if they are releasing their YA or MG debut.

Check back in 2011 to see how I do.
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Blogger Hop

Time for the Blogger Hop from Crazy for Books

What a great idea! I love following readers blogs almost more than I like blogging myself. What a great way to get out there and meet new people who share the same interests as you.

This week’s question: What’s your favourite book cover?

This is a difficult question because there are so many beautiful covers. However, I think my all time favourite cover is Fallen by Lauren Kate. It’s just so dark and beautiful. I have always loved it, I still do. It’s actually my favourite part of the book.

Coming Soon to a Library Near You

Coming Soon to a Library Near You is a weekly feature inspired by Jill at Breaking the Spine that looks at upcoming books.

This Week’s Book: Playing Hurt

Author: Holly Schindler

Release Date: March 8 2011
Summary: Star basketball player Chelsea "Nitro" Keyes had a full ride to college—and everyone's admiration back home. Then she took a horrible fall during senior year. Now a metal plate holds her together and she feels like a stranger in her own family. That summer, Chelsea's dad hires Clint, a nineteen-year-old ex-hockey player and "boot camp" trainer, to work with her at a northern Minnesota lake resort. As they grow close, Chelsea finds that Clint's haunted by his own tragedy. Will their romance end up hurting them all over again—or finally heal their heartbreak?

Oh, this sounds like one of my favourite movies from when I was a kid, The Cutting Edge...so cute!

Fade

Fade (Dreamcatcher Trilogy)
By Lisa McMann
2009
248 pages
Book 2

Summary: Dreamcatching is taking its toll on Janie physically, but also on her relationship with Cabel, who hates to see her hurt. On top of that she’s been asked by the Captain to help find a possible sexual predator in her school. While Janie tries to use her dreams to catch the predator, she comes to find that she’s more involved than she wants to be and she’s dangerously close to a nightmare she won’t be able to wake up from.

Review: For those who enjoyed the first book in the series (Wake), this second instalment will not be a disappointment. While it still contains the choppy writing style that the first book does, Fade demonstrates growth with respect to story and character development. There is a lot more time given to Janie’s thought process and her life outside of the dreams. This resulted in a lot of room for readers to connect with the story, especially with Janie, that wasn’t there in the first novel. There is also a significant amount of action and suspense, which also makes this book feel fuller. It was a quick, easy and enjoyable read, one that would be applicable to wide audiences of varying ages and genre preferences.

Also by Lisa McMann: Cryer’s Cross (2011), Wake and Gone

If you liked Fade you might also enjoy: Deadly Little Secret by Laurie Haria Stolarz, Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson, Sleepless by Cyn Balog, Dream Girl by Lauren Mechling, Evermore by Alyson Noel

Author website: http://lisamcmann.com/

Rating: W3/4 C3/4 P4/4 O3/4 PP3/4 CR3/4
Grade Level: S – low level for reading but mature elements.

The Karma Club

The Karma Club
By Jessica Brody
2010
258 pages

“Good things happen to good people and bad things happen to bad people. That’s just how Karma works. Well, at least that’s how I thought it worked.”

Summary: Hell hath no fury...When Madison’s boyfriend cheats on her with Miss Perfect Heather Campbell, she’s not sure she wants to wait around for Karma to take care of things. So instead she decides to start a Karma club to dish out bad things to those who deserve it, especially her ex boyfriend. However, Madison soon realizes that every action has a re-action and soon enough Karma will catch up to everyone...even her.

Review: The Karma Club is a fun, light read that could easily be devoured in one or two sittings. Readers who enjoy upside down high school settings where the cheerleader finally gets what is coming to her will no doubt find something satisfying in this comedic novel. Madison is a very likable and charming character, despite her desire to seek revenge. Her honesty and frankness make her stand out amongst the plethora of other realistic fiction main characters. There are also key elements of friendship, forgiveness, honesty and romance to appeal to YA audiences.

This is Jessica Brody’s debut YA novel

If you liked The Karma Club, you might also enjoy: Getting Revenge on Lauren Wood by Eileen Cook, Getting the Girl by Susan Juby, Boys, Girls and Other Hazardous Materials by Rosalind Wiseman

Additional Info: you have to check out the awesome book trailer on Jessica’s website. It’s like watching a movie, really well done.

Jessica Brody’s website: http://www.jessicabrody.com/

Rating: W3/4 C3/4 P4/4 O2.5/4 PP3.5/4 CR3/4
Grade Level Interest: JS

Book Blogger Hop

Time for the Blogger Hop from Crazy for Books

What a great idea! I love following readers blogs almost more than I like blogging myself. What a great way to get out there and meet new people who share the same interests as you.

This week’s question: "Since Thanksgiving is coming up next week, let's use this week's Hop to share what we are most thankful for and what our holiday traditions are!"

Canadian thanksgiving was over a month ago, but it’s good to be reminded what you are thankful for all year round.

I am most thankful for: my wonderful and supportive husband who I couldn’t survive without, family and friends who I love deeply, that my sisters have had babies this year (that’s three extra little people in my life to love), a job that lets me be the best that I can be and is letting me change the world, freedom, the feeling that I’m not alone and a deep sense of peace.

Traditions: Thanksgiving for us is filled with a lot of family. We always spend one day with my parents and my grandma, and another with my husband’s family. We don’t really have traditions per say, but we always spend it together.

Great question, I'm looking forward to seeing what everyone has to say.

Awesome Movie Trailer

This looks so good, cannot wait!!!!

Non-Fiction Addiction

Non-fiction for teens sure does have a bad rep. This feature will introduce non-fiction titles that are fun and informative and hopefully bring to life the wealth of relevant and amazing titles that are out there.

Out With It: Gay and Straight Teens Write About Homosexuality, edited by Al Desetta

Summary: Sensitive issues of teen sexuality, coming out, homophobia, and relationships with family and friends are explored in a dozen articles authored by teens. Updated with new stories.

“Out With It is a powerful and wonderfully evocative collection of writing by teens about homosexuality, identity and the struggle for understanding, friendship, love and community” – Greg Tewksbury, School Voices

Thoughts: The articles are well written and honest and I think this book would be especially helpful for a friend or family member with a loved one struggling to come out. It does a really great job of being a window. It is also a great example of giving teens a voice. My one complaint is that while many of the stories would be transferable, most of the authors experienced life in group homes, resulting in a lack of diversity of experiences.

Coming Soon to a Library Near You is a weekly feature inspired by Jill at Breaking the Spine that looks at upcoming books.

This Week’s Book: So Shelly

Author: Ty Roth

Release Date: Feb 2011
Summary: Until now, high school junior, John Keats, has only tiptoed near the edges of the vortex that is schoolmate and literary prodigy, Gordon Byron. That is, until their mutual friend, Shelly, drowns in a sailing accident.After stealing Shelly's ashes from her wake at Trinity Catholic High School, the boys set a course for the small Lake Erie island where Shelly's body had washed ashore and to where she wished to be returned. It would be one last "so Shelly" romantic quest. At least that's what they think. As they navigate around the obstacles and resist temptations during their odyssey, Keats and Gordon glue together the shattered pieces of Shelly's and their own pasts while attempting to make sense of her tragic and premature end.

This is actually a pretty popular plot, which I generally like, so I’m going to give this one a shot.

Epic Giveaway

Seriously, how awesome is this? You should enter!!!!! Check out their website for a list of the awesome children and teen books they have and then head to their facebook page to enter.

Shadow Kiss

Shadow Kiss ( AVampire Academy Novel)
By Richelle Mead
2008
443 pages (paperback)
Book 3

Summary: Rose has finally started her exams as a guardian and she’s excited to spend some more time with Lissa. However, when she is assigned to Christian instead, Rose unwillingly must learn to protect someone without the power of the bond. What does it matter right? It’s just a training exercise...until Strigoi show up and capture Dimitri. Now Rose must decide, go after Dimitri and risk Lissa or stay and protect Lissa and lose Dimitri forever.

Review: This was a much slower paced novel than the first two. Mead gives a lot of attention to dealing with the outcome of the last books and preparing the way for the rest of the series. The result is a novel that for the most part feels like filler. That’s not to say a lot of good things didn’t happen and that there wasn’t any action, but the good stuff was really pushed to the last part of the book. This change in pacing, however, did really leave room for character development, especially with Rose, Dimitri and Adrian. While not my favourite book of the series, it definitely left me wanting more.

Other books in the series: Vampire Academy (2007), Frostbite (2008), Blood Promise (2009), Spirit Bound (2010) and Last Sacrifice (Dec 2010)

If you liked Vampire Academy you might also enjoy: The Darkest Powers series by Kelley Armstrong, Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins, A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray, Evernight by Claudia Grey and Blue Bloods by Melissa De la Cruz

Additional Info: There is a graphic novel version and the movie rights have been sold, so expect to see Rose and Lissa on the silver screen sometime in the future.

Author website: http://www.richellemead.com/index.htm

Rating: W3/4 C4/4 P3/4 O3/4 PP3.5/4 CR2/4
Grade Level Interest: high J or S

Rumors

Rumors (A Luxe Novel)
By Anna Godbersen
2008
423 pages (pbk)
Book 2

Summary: As rumors fly about the untimely demise of New York’s brightest star, Elizabeth Holland, all eyes are on those closest to the dearly departed: her sister, Diana, the family’s only hope for redemption; Henry Schoonmaker, the flame Elizabeth never extinguished; Penelope Hayes, poised to claim all that her best friend left behind; even Elizabeth’s former maid, Lina who discovers that while money matters and breeding counts, gossip is the new currency. (from book jacket)

Review: While the first Luxe novel was at times difficult to follow due to multiple narratives, Rumors moves more smoothly as readers are already familiar with the main characters. The book starts with a wedding, and the rest of the book moves quickly as the reader is anxious to find out who will be the bride. While I enjoyed the characterization and quick pacing I found some of the storyline redundant and circular. There simply wasn’t enough plot development to entice me to finish the series. I still think there are a lot of elements to appeal to a wide audience (fashion, gossip, love, historical elements, suspense, betrayal, etc); unfortunately, I didn’t find this book interesting enough to continue.

Also by Anna Godbersen: Envy, Splendor and Bright Young Things

If you liked Rumors you might also enjoy: Anastasia’s Secret by Susanne Dunlap, A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray, Secret Society by Tom Dolby and Another Faust by Daniel and Dina Nayeri

Author website: http://www.bytseries.com/

Rating: W3/4 C3/4 P2/4 O3/4 PP3.5/4 CR4/4
Grade Level Interest: S

From the Desk

One of my favourite things about being a Children and Youth librarian is that every morning someone puts on my desk all the new books that have arrived at our Branch for me to look over. It’s a really great way for me to know what we have in our collection, and I’m learning about all kinds of great new books.

Considering I don’t have time to read everything, I thought I would highlight some of the books that I find on my desk that look really interesting.

Being in the Belly of the Bloodhound by L.A Meyer (2008) - In this installment in the series, the teen is back in Boston as a student at the Lawson Peabody School for Young Girls. While there, she tries to comport herself as a proper young lady in polite society. When the girls go on a field trip to a nearby island, they are kidnapped and put on a slave ship called the Bloodhound, which is bound for Africa. Jacky quickly falls back on her seagoing experience to organize the captives into divisions and devise a daring escape plan, which could mean the difference between life and death

Stravaganza: City of Ships by Mary Hoffman (2010) - The Stravagante is Isabel, a younger twin by a matter of minutes. Her talisman is a pouch of silver mosaic tiles and she stravagates to Classe, where she is met by Flavia, a successful female merchant who trades spices, silks, tapestries, and whose son is an outcast and a pirate. Isabel finds that Classe and Bellezza are under threat from attack by the fierce Gate people. What can she do to help save the city? This is a thrilling story packed with action, pirates and drama.

The Rhinestone Sisterhood by David Valdes Greenwood (2010) - Ride a bull. Chat up a Senator. And get your homework in on time. It’s all in a day’s work for a festival queen.If you assume all pageant queens are airheads who can’t handle geography, or vain girls who like to parade around in bathing suits, then welcome to the alternative universe of America’s festival queens. With titles like Catfish Queen and Swine Queen, and royal duties ranging from leading parades to kissing frogs to doing PR for local industries, these hardworking girls represent the best of what America has to offer: local cultures, unique traditions, and the kind of can-do community spirit that makes Main Street sparkle with promise.

Book Blogger Hop

Time for the Blogger Hop from Crazy for Books

What a great idea! I love following readers blogs almost more than I like blogging myself. What a great way to get out there and meet new people who share the same interests as you.

This week’s question: If you find a book that looks interesting but is part of a series, do you always start with the first title?

Absolutely, I cannot imagine starting later in the series. Wouldn’t you miss so much?

Program - Postcard for Peace

Surprisingly not a lot of libraries run Remembrance Day programs, especially not for teens. I’m sure there is some underground stuff that goes on that doesn’t make websites (themed books in book clubs, art contests, ec), but I was surprised to find so few events actually promoted.

Yesterday I was part of a massive outreach initiative at one of the high schools in the city. It gave me a chance to meet with the school librarian and get a tour of the library. That school in particular was participating in the Postcard for Peace government program which provides opportunities for youth to send postcards to express messages of thanks to those who served Canada in times of war. The school had some really creative artist who had made some beautiful submissions, and I know a lot of the students were participating. I was really excited that students were actually doing something in thanks and remembrance and that the library was spearheading it.

Coming Soon the a Library Near You

Coming Soon to a Library Near You is a weekly feature inspired by Jill at Breaking the Spine that looks at upcoming books.

This Week’s Book: Playing Hurt

Author: Holly Schindler

Release Date: March 8 2011
Summary: Star basketball player Chelsea "Nitro" Keyes had a full ride to college—and everyone's admiration back home. Then she took a horrible fall during senior year. Now a metal plate holds her together and she feels like a stranger in her own family. That summer, Chelsea's dad hires Clint, a nineteen-year-old ex-hockey player and "boot camp" trainer, to work with her at a northern Minnesota lake resort. As they grow close, Chelsea finds that Clint's haunted by his own tragedy. Will their romance end up hurting them all over again—or finally heal their heartbreak?

Oh, this sounds like one of my favourite movies from when I was a kid, The Cutting Edge...so cute!

This Gorgeous Game

This Gorgeous Game
By Donna Freitas
2010
208 pages

Summary: 17 year old Olivia thinks that all her dreams have come true when she wins a much coveted writing contest. Not only does she get a scholarship to university but she also gets to be mentored by her literary idol Father Mark Brendan. At first Olivia is over the moon with all the attention Father Mark gives her, including praises of her work, small tokens and chance encounters. But soon she finds that she’s spending all her time with Father Mark and he has a lot of requests. When things start being taken a little too far, Olivia finds herself trapped in Father Mark’s world playing a very dangerous game.

Review: This Gorgeous Game was a very fast read and felt more like a short story than a full on novel. This quality would make it a perfect selection for reluctant readers. The story is fast paced with a steady increase in Mark’s bizarre behaviour, which no doubt will draw the reader in. The main character is well constructed and Freitas does a good job of showing the struggle between following along with someone in authority and feeling like something doesn’t feel right. I thought the concept was really interesting, I just wish the story had been filled out a little bit more.

Also by Donna Freitas: The Possibilities of Sainthood

If you liked This Gorgeous Game you might also enjoy: Because I am the Furniture by Thalia Chaltas, Fade by Lisa McMann, Boy Toy by Barry Lyga and Scars by Cheryl Rainfield

Author website: http://donnafreitas.blogspot.com/

Rating: W2.5/4 C3/4 P3/4 O3/4 PP3/4 CR1/4
Grade Level Interest: MJS

Wake

Wake (Dreamcatcher Trilogy)
By Lisa McMann
2008
210 pages
Book 1

Summary: Seventeen year old Janie has a big problem; she can see into other people’s dreams. Not only is it annoying (how many falling dreams can you stand, really?) but she doesn’t have control over when they happen. Usually they are nothing more than a huge inconvenience, but when she enters into someone’s gruesome nightmare things take on a whole new level of scary. Will she find out the identity of the dreamer, and will mysterious Cabel still like her if he finds out her secret?

Review: Wake was an unexpected read. The writing it very stylized with short choppy sentences and the story is structured around a time line. While it serves to move the reader along at a quick pace, it does limit the amount of depth the novel can reach. This will no doubt frustrate some readers, but I found the writing style unique and refreshing. While I would have liked more depth to the story and the characters, I was happy to be along for the ride. The concept of dream watching is interesting, and I liked how McMann jumped into the story without a lot of background explanation. The elements of mystery and romance will make this book appeal to a wide audience. The style of writing and fast paced plot will also make it accessible to reluctant readers. A very fast and enjoyable read.

Also by Lisa McMann: Cryer’s Cross (Feb 2011)

If you liked Wake you might also enjoy: Deadly Little Secrets by Laurie Faria Stolarz, Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson, Sleepless by Cyn Balog, Dream Girl by Lauren Mechling, Evermore by Alyson Noel

Additional Info: There are two more books in the series: Fade and Gone. There will be a movie, possibly with Miley Cyrus as lead.

Non-fiction Connection: Dreams: Close Your Eyes and Open your Mind by Tucker Shaw

Author website: http://lisamcmann.com/

Rating: W3/4 C2.5/4 P3/4 O3/4 PP3.5/4 CR3/4
Grade Level: JS – low level for reading but somewhat mature elements.

From the Desk

One of my favourite things about being a Children and Youth librarian is that every morning someone puts on my desk all the new books that have arrived at our Branch for me to look over. It’s a really great way for me to know what we have in our collection, and I’m learning about all kinds of great new books.

Considering I don’t have time to read everything, I thought I would highlight some of the books that I find on my desk that look really interesting.

The Joshua Files: Invisible city by M. G Harris (2010) - Joshua's life was pretty average until his archaeologist father was reported dead in a plane crash. Josh's dad had been searching for the Mayan Codex, said to contain key information about the 2012 Mayan prophecy foretelling the end of the world. Was the crash simply a tragic accident, or is there more to his father's death than the authorities are willing to tell him?

Never Cry Werewolf by Heather David (2009) - Okay, so maybe Shelby has made a few mistakes with boys. But her stepmother totally overreacts when she catches Shelby in a post-curfew kiss with a hot senior: Suddenly Shelby's being packed off to brat camp. It's good-bye, prom dress; hello, hiking boots. Things start looking up, though, when Shelby meets fellow camper Austin Bridges III. But soon she realizes there's more to Austin than crush material—his family has a dark secret, and he wants Shelby's help guarding it.

The Vanishing Violin by Michael Beil (2010) - When there are mysteries to be solved, the Red Blazer Girls are on the case! The discovery of the Ring of Rocamadour has secured the girls' reputation as Upper East Side super-sleuths, bringing many sundry job requests and some unwanted attention from crooks. This time the girls must follow a trail of cryptic clues, involving everything from logic to literature, to trace a rare violin gone missing. But nothing is as it appears, and just as a solution seems imminent, the girls find themselves scrambling to save the man who was once their prime suspect.