Jumping Off Swings by Jo Knowles

Nine months. The length of the school year. The amount of time deemed appropriate for a person to learn and grow. The amount of time necessary to grow a person.

Ellie has hooked up with a few guys, the latest being Josh. Corinne, Ellie's best friend, was there to comfort her after Josh walked away. Caleb has been in love with Ellie since they were young and is disappointed in his friend, Josh. Corinne and Caleb strike up a friendship that could become more.

Four teens whose lives are connected and will change drastically this school year. Four teens who wish they could turn back time and return to the moments when life was easy. When the scariest thing you could imagine was jumping off swings.

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From Heaven Lake by Vikram Seth

From Heaven Lake is the fascinating travelogue written by an Indian student (Vikram Seth) studying in China. During the summer of 1981 Seth decides to travel home to Delhi after three years in order to spend the summer holidays with his family. Rather than simply flying out, Seth decides to make the journey of a lifetime through China, into Tibet, through Nepal and finally into India. Along the way the author uses his fluency in Mandarin to make friends and connect with the local peoples of each of the countries. Vikram Seth was originally a poet and his beautiful diction paints a masterpiece of imagery and poetic eloquence throughout the novel. Anyone interested in China, Tibet, Nepal, or India will fine this novel to be utterly fascinating. Not only does one get the sense of geography but it's like experiencing first hand the culture and behaviours of characters who live on the other side of the planet. A compelling and beautiful read From Heaven Lake is a nonfiction piece definitely worth checking out!

P:3 Q:5

The Haunting of Elaizabel Cray, by Chris Wooding

Thaniel is a Wych hunter, and at only seventeen, it's a challenging job. One could even say life threatening. Wychs, strange and warped creatures that live in the Old Quarter of London, threaten the lives of the civil people that live just across the river. When the sun goes down, the Wychs come out to play. And unfortunately, their main source of food are defenseless humans. So of course killing Wychs would be a lucritive job, assuming Thaniel doesn't get killed in the process. On one of his Wych hunting missions in the Old Quarter, Thaniel comes across something he does not expect. Elaizabel Cray, a beautiful, if not crazed and a bit psychotic girl, is found in the ruins of an old house covered in dirt and unkempt. Thaniel, the type of concerned soul that he is, quickly takes her in, but he may be getting more than he bargained for. Elaizabel is possessed by something sinister, a benevolent spirit that attracts everything horrific and evil from the drudgery of London. Thaniel, along with his friend and mentor, Cathaline, has to find the source of Elaizabel's savagery and what has taken hold of her soul.

Chris Wooding is a sensational author, with vivid vocabulary and imaginative storylines. The Haunting of Elaizabel Cray is an amazing read for anyone who longs for a world where not everything is what it seems, and where evil often wins. With a steampunk-like setting in old London, a real place can really feel like an entirely different world.

P4

Q5

Beastly by: Alex Flinn

Not another one of those princess tales that has the classical ending, with the classical twist, and with everything happily ever after. This is not one of those stories. Beastly, written by Alex Flinn is a modern day twist of the classical tale of Beauty and the Beast; however, this novel is written from the beasts point of view, and takes you step by step through the adventure of why the Beast was turned into a beast by the first place.

This beast, which was known as Kyle Kingsbury had everything he had ever wanted before he had transformed... or so he thought. He had the perfect father, the perfect life as a beautiful boy that every girl wanted to date, and every guy wanted to be friends with. The same character Kyle, who is cursed by a witch in modern day New York City, and given two years to find someone (beauty) to reverse the curse which he has.. otherwise he will stay a beast forever. Go with Kyle as he undergoes his trasformation into the beast, and the new things that he learns along the way, totally different from his original beliefs.

This novel written by Alex Flinn is a novel in which I really loved, because of the difference in point of views from the everyday disney princess belle to the beast and why his life is the way it is. I loved how the point of views change from chapter to chapter- and although I thought I knew the traditional ending I really enjoyed reading my all time favorite fairy tale with a different variation.

"I'll tell you how I used to be Kyle Kingsbury, the guy you wished you were, with money, perfect looks, and the perfect life. And then, I'll tell you how I became perfectly . . . beastly"

Ratings:

4P

5Q

One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies by Sonya Sones

This is NOT One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies

Instead it's the story
of what happens after
my world was torn apart.

The book of Ruby
on a plane bound for
Los Angeles,California.

Home of the rich
and the famous, but
more specifically

the father who's been on
the silver screen but
NOT in my life.

The story of how I must leave
my aunt, my bff Lizzi,
my boyfriend, my Boston

To live with the man
who divorced my mom
and left before I was born

This is NOT One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies

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Escape was written by Carolyn Jessop which tells her story of life in a polygamous marriage.

Unlike most polygamous families, she lived a relatively care-free early childhood. In the beginning, she was loved and her family was relatively stable. Her father had a middle class job and the children were allowed to go to a public school. However, like most "perfect" FLDS childhoods, hers was about to end in a dramatic way, starting with her mother's physical abuse.

Since polygamy was encouraged, and status was gained my men who practiced this, her father began to take in more wives, which added stress on the entire family and particularly the other wives, who looked for ways to spend their emotions. This way was usually through their children. This was practiced because it was thought children needed constant reprimand.

A little after Carolyn was 18 years old, she was married as a fourth wife to a man who knew no boundaries. Thus she spent over a decade listening to his manipulation, abuse, and dictatorship, after escaping with her 8 children to modern society.

The Espressologist by Kristina Springer

What does your favorite coffee drink say about you? Could your perfect match be found around the corner at your favorite cafe? Maybe an overpriced jolt of caffeine really is worth the calories and the empty pockets if you discover the missing piece of your heart.

Jane Turner is a high school senior who would rather spend her time making a little extra cash at Wired Joe's than actually attending class. She's been given the job of assistant manager, which makes it all the more difficult to explain to Derek (The Manager) why she keeps scribbling in a notebook behind the counter, when she should be working. For quite some time Jane has been jotting down the drinks people order and the type of person they are. She's got it down to a science and can pretty much predict the drink you will order just by looking at you. She's even used her notes and skill to set up a few customers. Sounds a little quirky, but it's working. When Derek hears about Jane's Espressology, he's excited. He thinks "The Espressologist" will be a great holiday promotion. Stop by Wired Joe's every Friday night and find your true love, just in time for the holidays. It's going better than expected, other than the fact that Jane has yet to find herself someone.

Welcome to Wired Joe's. The Espressologist is in!

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Nothing Like You by Lauren Strasnick

Why did I do it? Who knows, really. Was I just trying to feel something? Pain, regret, hope, joy, love? An interest in someone, anyone other than Mom? What did Paul Bennett see in me? There must be something. Some reason he comes back once or twice a week, other than the sex of course. He says he won't leave his girlfriend, Saskia, but that he doesn't sleep with her. Is he telling the truth? And why does Saskia actually have to be such a great person, someone I could call a friend?
I made a choice, when I slept with Paul, and continuing to have this secret relationship could either give me something to look forward to or bring my world crashing down. Will this be a year to remember or a year to forget? Is this normal or am I nothing like you?

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Oggie Cooder: Party Animal by Sarah Weeks

Oggie Cooder is back and he's ready to party. For the first time he's been invited to Donnica Perfecto's birthday (pool party!) and he can't stop prrrrr-ip!ing with excitement. Donnica, on the other hand, is furious that her mother forced her to invite Oggie and she's got a few tricks up her sleeve to keep him away.

Armed with a list of Donnica's 101 B.P.R.s (Birthday Party Rules!) that he must have memorized in order to be allowed entry to the party, Oggie is worried he won't find the perfect present for Ms. Perfecto. Will he really be able to control the prrrrr-ips, stop charving, not talk about inventors or Uncle Vern, and dress appropriately (no crocheted shoelaces or used clothes allowed!)?

Lucky for Oggie, neccessity is the mother of all inventions. With the help of few memorization techniques ("Richard of York Gave Battle in Vain") and a few friends (old and new), Oggie may be able to make both he and Donnica's birthday wishes come true.

Essence of Oggie

Unique boy on a mission

Learns to write Haiku

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Check out our review of Oggie Cooder (book #1)!

Unsweetined by Jodie Sweetin

This quick read is the autobiography of actress Jodie Sweetin, known to the world as Stephanie Tanner from Full House. However in recent years, she's been in the media spotlight for her admissions of alcohol and drug abuse. Beyond her stories from Full House, struggles fitting in during the school years, Sweetin reveals secrets behind her struggles with addiction. In fact she admits that while touring colleges to speak about sober living, she was still secretly abusing drugs. "How Rude!"

There are many important lessons readers can take away from this story. First is that you alone are responsible for the choices you make in life. No one is perfect, but when you fail you must pick yourself up and try again. Happiness comes from within. It has no price tag and can't be found in a bottle of boozes, a handful of pills, or from an assortment of illegal substances. Friends are the people who encourage you to be a better person, not those who use you or encourage you to make poor choices. Most importantly, don't give up on yourself.
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Tentacles by Roland Smith

We first met Marty, Grace, Wolfe, and the gang in Cryptid Hunters. After a brief return from the Congo, it’s time to board the Coelacanth and head toward New Zealand in search of a giant squid called Architeuthis. Of course, Wolfe’s arch-nemesis, Noah Blackwood, is trying to highjack the trip and retrieve those things he believes belong to him: the Mokélé-mbembé eggs (or hatchlings) and Grace, who happens to be Wolfe’s daughter and Noah Blackwood’s granddaughter. Complete with wild animals, spies, new and improved high-tech gadgets, this book will quickly wrap you in its tentacles.

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Click here to read our review of Cryptid Hunters.

City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments #1) by Cassandra Clare

Welcome to a New York City you've never before experienced. Behind the glamour, you will find a world you thought only existed in fantasies and other tales.

Vampires, werewolves, and fairies are only a few of the Downworlders who inhabit the city. Shadowhunters are nephilim, children born of angel and human. The Shadowhunters protect the mundanes (regular humans) of city by killing demons and keeping the Downworlders under control.

Clary Fray is spending the evening at Club Pandemonium with her bff, Simon, when she witnesses three tattooed teens attack and kill another. When she goes to investigate, the body of the murdered teen disappears into thin air. It is then that Clary discovers the tattooed ones are Shadowhunters and she, a mundane, should not be able to see them.

What Clary discovers next will lead her to question everything she's ever known about her life and her world.

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The Cape and Other Stories From the Japanese Ghetto, by Kenji Nakagami

"The Burakumin are the largest minority group in Japan they have been distinguished from them by their origins in the lowest castes of traditional Japanese society." Even though the feudal system in Japan has long since ended, Burakumin people continue to be discriminated against and even shunned by the majority of Japanese societies. These are their stories. The Cape and Other Stories From the Japanese Ghetto, by Kenji Nakagami include three nonfiction stories pertaining to the hardships and social discrimination the Buraku people endure everyday. Heart wrenching, eye opening, violent, powerful and shocking, these stories will give a new perspective on Japan's "lowest class" of people. Some material may not be suitable for all readers.

P:4 Q:4

Bad Connection: Melody Carlson

Bad Connection, another book by my favorite author Melody Carlson; a novel with a strange new twist on life.

Samantha McGregor at age 16 has been aware of her prophetic visions since childhood. Through her visions and dreams God has used her to help other people in sticky situations. It is a gift she never really liked or wanted, but when she starts receiving visions concerning her missing friend Kayla, she can't ignore it anymore. Samantha seems to be struggling with her family when the first vision is seen about her friend Kayla. Mountains. Heat, and a horror striken face of her friend she realizes that she has to do something, she has to respond to the vision and find her friend Kayla regardless of what circumstances put her in that position. Unlike most 16 year old teenage girls today worry Samantha wishes she could worry about about what to wear to prom, and the latest boy issues, instead of having these strange visions. Embark on the mission with Samantha and her deceased father's former police partner to get to the bottom of the case with her friend Kayla before it's too late.

"If God gave you a vision,"

"would you trust it?"

Ratings:

4P

5Q

Wicked Plants

"Wicked Weeds: The weed that killed Lincoln's mother and other botanical atrocities," by Amy Stewart. This strangely fun book, regardless that it's all about plants, was actually very entertaining to read. Inside the cover, this book contains a daunting amount of facts and statistics, all about dangerous plants that can kill you. And if they don't kill you, there are also many plants listing that are known to cause a great many displeasing side-affects. This includes but is not limited to: rashes, vomiting, hallucinations, and even a plant that is said to reek of corpses. Now why would anyone ever get remotely close to such greenery? Surprisingly, many people like to have killer plants as a part of their garden. As a matter of fact, many household plants can be toxic to children or pets, but people buy them as decorations because they don't know what they are. Or, which has been proven an all too common scenario, perhaps there happen to be some interesting plants they come across while camping that they have the urge to touch or eat. This book talks about all hazardous plants, from things as commonly known as Marijuana, to plants that only exist in the most remote tropics of the rain forest. While the book is based greatly on facts, it does not become disinteresting due to the interesting drawings on almost every page. Some illustrations range from simple drawings of the plants, to utterly bizarre depictions of what happens to the unfortunate person to touch Monkshood. So if you take an interest in nature, or even if you have a fascination with murderous plants, this books is great fun to read on a rainy day.

Q4

P3

Pakistani Bride, written by Bapsi Sidwhwa, is a novel about a woman's role in rural Pakistan.

A father who lost his children and wife, a girl who loses her parents, are both brought together to share the joys and sorrows of life. 15 years later, after an immense fortune has been made, Zaitoon makes no objections when her father decides to go back to his home in northern Pakistan. After all, she imagines a loving and romantic relationship. When they arrive, her father promises her in marriage on a whim. Zaitoon is then thrust into a relationship that is not at all what she envisioned, and she realizes that escaping her new and harsh life is nearly impossible.

4Q, 4P

The Compound by S.A. Bodeen

What has your family done to prepare for the threat of nuclear war? Probably nothing. Your grandparents may remember the hype of fallout shelters in the 1940s and 1950s.

Eli and his family are ready. So ready in fact that they are currently living in a high tech underground compound, replicated to look and feel like their Seattle mansion. Unfortunately Eli's twin brother and his grandma are not with them. They were separated from the rest of the family and didn't make it to the shelter in time.

Why are they living in a nuclear fallout shelter, you ask? Eli's father is a billionaire and has spent years and billions of dollars planning for his family's safety. So when he received word of a nuclear attack, they were safely sealed away from the radiation and fallout for 15 years. But not everything appears to have gone according to plann. Six year in, food supplies are dwindling. Dad is acting strange and Eli is beginning to question what he is willing to do in order to secure his family's survival.

Would you be able to survive in The Compound?

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Heat by Mike Lupica

Michael (Miguel) and his Papi have spent years preparing for the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Even before escaping to the United States from their native Cuba, Papi knew Michael had the arm. They would play catch in their yard when they weren't watching American baseball on the television. It was really Papi's dream but it has now become Michael's.

But life sometimes throws you more curveballs than baseball. The other coaches in the league don't believe that someone with Michael's pitching talent is only twelve years old. The Little League has suspended him from pitching in the playoffs until a birth certificate is found. His older brother Carlos is doing his best to track it down, all while trying to avoid Social Services discovering the secret that could tear their family apart.

Will Michael find a way to make his dreams come true this summer? Or will the heat destroy what he has worked so hard to achieve?

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Make sure to stop by your library between November 12, 2009 & January 15, 2010 to check out the traveling exhibit, "Pride & Passion: The African American Baseball Experience".

Maus: My Father Bleeds History

Maus, the German word for 'mouse', is an all too obvious title that can be deciphered just from looking at the cover of the book. But this doesn't necessarily mean the book itself is anything typical. Maus is a survivor's tale, set in Europe during World War II smack in the center of Hitler's Holocaust. The idea was intricately conjured up by Art Spiegelman, and the tale itself belongs to his father, one of the few Jewish people to live through Auschwitz death camp. An uncommon factor that comes into play with this brilliant read is that it is told through pictures as well as writing. Unlike most graphic novels, there is much more actual reading to be had rather than a few words per speech bubble. Art Spiegelman's father, Vladek Spiegelman, recounts his life in Poland and surrounding countries as he and his family tried to flee the persecution of Jews. The tale switches from the real world, where Art speaks to his father, and the past, visualizing what it was like to be in the Holocaust. There's just one thing that makes this book so fun to read. Everyone person who is Jewish in the story are drawn as mice. And the Nazis? Why, cats, of course! This recount of history is often heart-wrenching, as well as humorous when appropriate, and it paints a picture of exactly how millions of people suffered. Even if you are not a fan of feeling miserable, I recommend reading Maus, because it is a story that everyone should know.

3P

5Q

Review by Sarah S.: Nobody's Princess by Esther Friesner

Helena Is a the princess of Sparta, she's so beautiful that people say she is daughter of Zeus.
She is destined to become the Queen of Sparta. That means she has to learn to sewing and weaving and other womanly chores. But unlike her Twin sister Clyemnestra she wants a different path in life. Helena starts to take lesions from her brothers teacher, she learns the way of the sword, spear, and bow. She travels the world under a disguise.

The book is filled with the stories of the gods and is a lot of fun to read. The reader get to fallow her from birth to the ripe age of 14 in this book. This book could be for boys or girls but would probably be more liked in the hands of a girl.

A must read.
Rating: 3Q, 3P

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days by Jeff Kinney

Summer is here again and Greg has big plans which include a lot of sleeping and playing videogames. However, Mom and Dad don’t seem to understand and think he should spend more time outside. Thankfully Rowley’s dad is a member of the country club, where the boys can hang out by the pool and drink fruit smoothies by the dozen. That is until Mr. Jefferson receives the $83 bill and demands Greg and Rowley pay it back (WHAT!).

Greg hatches a plan to start a lawn business (VIP Lawn Care). It would be taking off if Mr. Jefferson hadn’t banned them from printing their flyers on his computer and if the yellow pages didn’t charge thousands of dollars for advertising. Gramma won’t be a reference for Greg but surely she won’t care if they use her lawnmower, since Greg doesn’t have any equipment. (How do you start those things?) And why don’t people understand that Greg just doesn’t do poo?

To make matters worse, Mom cancels the family vacation since money is tight. Birthday gifts are never what you want and the community pool is full of scary images. Welcome to the Dog Days of summer, Wimpy Kid style.

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SIddhartha by Herman Hesse

"He smiled peacefully and gently, perhaps very graciously, perhaps very mockingly, exactly as the Illustrious One had smiled."

Siddhartha by Herman Hesse tells the classical tale of a young man in search of himself and inner peace. Siddhartha is born to a powerful and rich Brahmin. Wealth however does not satisfy Siddhartha and he goes on a journey of a life time to encounter the meaning of life and the true message of Buddhism. On his path to enlightenment Siddhartha encounters an extremist group who throws away all material possessions, and a town where Siddhartha finds success financially and emotionally. However Siddhartha's true lesson isn't learned until he comes upon a mystical river and an insightful boatman who teaches Siddhartha the true value of life. Herman Hesse won the Nobel Prize in 1946 for literature and this novel backs up his award. Deeply spiritual and moving Siddhartha will provide everyone with a little message of appreciation.

P:3 Q:5

A Kiss In TIme by: Alex Flinn

Ever want to read a new era princess story? How about sleeping beauty. Classic movies and books can be fun, but this new novel A Kiss In Time written by Alex Flinn takes a new twist to the classic tale.

Talia- the princess of Euphrasia has anything and everything her life could ask for beauty, grace, and intelligence but still her heart longs for the freedom to do as she pleases. The same freedom that has been taken from her for the past sixteen years of her life because of a curse which is to take place before her 16th birthday. Talia has been kept away from the world, and spindles especially to prolong and outlive the curse, until the eve of her birthday of course. Reaching out for freedom she seizes the opportunity, and has brought misfortune to her kingdom of Euphrasia forever. Her kingdom and herself sleep for 300 years, and are away from the rest of the world. Until one day a boy named Jack comes across a hedge and a hidden kingdom. He didn't plan of seeing a secret kingdom, nor to awaken some beautiful girl by a kiss, but only to to escape the school he was forced to attend in the first place. Travel with Jack and Talia to realize that nothing is what it seems, that feelings cannot just be bottled up, as well as fear and anger that people face in the world, but only to see and experience the real world for the first time.

Ratings:

5Q- Hard to imagine a better book

3P- Appeals to some readers

2009 Teens' Top Ten Announced! Check them out @ NCPL!

1. Paper Towns by John Green
2. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
3.The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
4. City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
5. Identical by Ellen Hopkins
6.The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
7. Wake by Lisa McMann
8. Untamed by P.C. and Kristin Cast
9. The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart
10. Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Hunger Games is an epic novel written by Suzzane Collins.

Katniss is living in the future United States, called Panem, which is now divided up into 12 districts, each ran by the Capitol. Every year, 24 boys and girls from each district go to a remote part of the country, and fight until the death. Since district 12 is the smallest, the people do not recieve much money, and have to scrounge for everything. From the time Kaniss' father died, she has taken the survival of her family upon herself, so when her sister is chosen to fight in the Games, Katniss volunteers herself. And so begins the training and preperation for the Hunger Games, a brutal and blood-lust event.

I very much enjoyed reading this book, because of how well developed the plot and characters are. It also portrays the wrongness of forcing children and teens to fight each other on reality TV.

Recomendation: 4.5 P

5 Q

Deadline by Chris Crutcher

What would you do if you found out that you had less than a year left to live? Would you make changes, do something you never dreamed you’d experience, live every moment for what it’s worth? Would you tell the people you love so they could prepare to lose you? Or would you keep it a secret?

Ben just found out his life has a deadline. He has a terminal blood disease and has less than a year to live. HE has decided to LIVE and forgo the treatments that will only extend his short time here on earth. HE has decided to go out for football and see if he can capture the glory that others find on the field. HE has decided to talk to Dallas Suzuki, the girl that makes his heart pound; on the off chance she might like him. HE has also decided to tell no one. Not his parents, his brother, Coach Banks, Dallas, NO ONE. Doc doesn’t agree, but since Ben is 18, he has no choice but to keep it confidential. How will this decision affect the choices and experiences Ben has planned for his senior year, for his life? What would you do if you had a deadline like this?

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The Sledding Hill by Chris Crutcher

Eddie Proffit's year has really sucked, plain and simple, and it doesn't seem to be looking any brighter. To begin with, Eddie's father died in a work accident. Then his best friend, Billy Bartholomew, kicked a stack of Sheetrock, which fell onto him, breaking his neck and crushing him. As if those deaths couldn't be any worse, Eddie is the person who discovered both of the bodies. His grief has manifested itself in his desire to remain silent.

What Eddie hasn't realized is that Billy hasn't left him completely. Will Billy be able to help Eddie find his voice before it is too late? And has Eddie's silence actually helped him use his other senses to discover the power of books?

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The Crazy Horse Electric Game by Chris Crutcher

Willie Weaver spent his whole life training for the big game, quality time in the backyard with his father, throwing pitch after pitch until he could throw the heat with his eyes closed. All those years of practice paid off during the big game against Crazy Horse Electric. But life can’t be measured by the past and the memories of that big game, especially when you can’t anticipate the future curve balls that might be thrown your way. A freak accident leaves Willie disabled and everyone, including himself, has trouble adjusting. For his parents, especially his father, this blow feels like losing another child (Willie’s baby sister, Missy, died of SIDS). After overhearing an explosive argument between them, Willie decides his only option is to leave Coho, MT and find a place for himself in California. Is there life after The Crazy Horse Electric Game? Willie is about to discover just that.

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Dexter in the Dark

Dexter Morgan is like any average guy living in Miami. He has a boat to go fishing in the ocean on, a sweet girlfriend that's soon to be his wife, and he has a stable job on the forensics team as a blood spatter analyst. Oh yeah, he's also the most notorious serial killer Miami has ever seen.

Dexter in the Dark is the third book in the Dexter series by Jeff Lindsay. Everyone's favorite serial killer is in for hard times in this book, when his Dark Passenger abandons him after a particular case. Not knowing why his backseat driver has left, it never having happened before in Dexter's entire career as the Dark Avenger, he is left to try and solve the case without any help from his inner voice. Which seems to prove harder than he would have known. Without the Dark Passenger, Dexter comes to realize they he may not have been who he thought he was all these years, and he also comes to question where his Dark Passenger had even come from in the first place. With no intuitive voice to tell him he's in danger, Dexter feels exposed and frightened when he discovers that he is being followed, as well as being watched. Dexter has to struggle to find himself, when for the first time, he is the Hunted instead of the Hunter. Without his Dark Passenger, Dexter feels truly left in the dark.

4P

5Q

Kafka On the Shore by, Haruki Murakami

"That things in life are fated by our previous lives. That even in the smallest events there's no such thing as coincidence." Kafka On the Shore by Haruki Murakami is my absolute favorite of Murakami's works. Psychologically captivating, and starkly thought provoking. Kafka On the Shore follows the parallel tales of the young Kafka Tamura and mentally disabled Satoru Nakata. Kafka is a fifteen year old boy who runs away from his father in search of answers and in search of his long lost mother and sister. A prophecy told to him at a younger age leads him to a secluded library far from home. This library proves to be the answer to many of Kafka's questions but unexpectedly reveals more mysteries. Nakata lost most of his mental capabilities during World War II while on a field trip with his elementary class. While on the trip a mysterious flash of light filled the sky and while most of the children were unconscious for a mere few minuets, Nakata woke up several weeks later. Once Nakata finally awoke, he was unable to read and had lost many of his memories. However, Nakata soon learns he is able to speak with cats and while Kafka is on his path to self discovery, Nakata's own adventure begins and although the two characters never meet, their destinies are much more similar than they first appear. Fast paced and intelligent in every way, Kafka on the Shore is strongly reccomended for those in seek of a mental feast. Some material however may be unsutiable for children.

P:4 Q:5

Unveiled is a novella of one woman who changed all of history, and is written by Francine Rivers with great imagination.

At early adolescents, it is common practice for young women to be betrothed. Tamar has reached that age, and is going to soon be married to a son in Judah's house. When the day arrives, she is awed at how handsome her husband is. As the day unfolds, Tamar, though tired from her long walk to her father-in-law's house, is determined to be a good wife, and tries to remember everything her mother taught her. When the wedding ceremony and feasts are done, she and her husband go into the bedchamber. Tamar is shocked. However handsome Er was, he has a heart of stone. Tamar soon learned to stay out of sight whenever possible. As her days turned into weeks, and the weeks turned into months, Tamar began to take notice of Judah's God. Losing her faith in the pagan Canaanite gods, Tamar felt an awesome power, that is unexplainable. She also felt the need to hang onto anything to survive.

Betrayed on all sides, and risking her life, she fights to fulfill her duty for Judah's household, for a chance to dare believe in a God who is all loving.

Confessions of a Shopaholic: Sophie Kinsella

Confessions of a Shopaholic written by Sophie Kinsella, is an outstanding novel- that is nothing like the movie. Sophie Kinsella has a way with words that keeps the reading laughing even when they don't want to.

Rebecca Bloomwood is a shopaholic.. to say the least. She has a driving sense for fashion and a want for expensive clothing, accesories, and things that she never uses.

Becky as a result of buying many things is in debt up to her eyeballs and ironically she works for sucessful savings as a journalist on how to save money.

Instead of paying off her debt like a normal person would think to do, she just keeps buying more... and she knows she has a problem. Becky tries many things to get rid of her spending and shopping habit, but in the end she ends up buying more and realistically hurting her life. Travel with Becky store to store, confession after confession as she tries to get her life in place, find the love that money can't buy, the story that no one can pass up, and change her life from going upside down to the right way.

Ratings:

5Q

4P

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Fascination,
mystique,
protection,
desire,
love,
fear,
heat,
cold,
summer,
winter,
connection,
memory,
regret,
hope,
empty,
human,
wolves,
woods,
snow,
Grace,
Sam.
Shiver …

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Sent by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Jonah, Chip, Alex and the 33 other adoptees had just been told that they were missing children kidnapped from history. Chip & Alex were being returned to the 15th century, their true place in history, when Jonah and Katherine grabbed onto Chip and were also sent through time.

The year is now 1483 and the group finds themselves in the Tower of London. Chip is really Edward V, king of England, and Alex is his younger brother, Richard, Duke of York. Chip is convinced that his uncle, Richard of Gloucester, plans to kill him and seize the crown and throne. So these 21st century teens find themselves in the middle of a time traveling mess. They must remain undetected while trying to figure out how to save Chip & Alex and return home without drastically changing the past. It would be a whole lot easier if they had some understanding of what really happened the 1st time around.

Sent is the 2nd book in The Missing series.

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Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

As we all know, Katniss & Peeta became the first dual winners of the 74th Hunger Games. And while many in Panem are excited and reenergized by this feat, the Capitol and President Snow are not impressed. They view Katniss' stunt with the berries as rebellion. They also don't buy the story of Katniss and Peeta as star-crossed lovers.

As Katniss and Peeta prepare for their Victory Tour, set midway between the games, President Snow pays Katniss a surprise visit and leaves her with a threat. Either convince the Capitol and all of Panem that you are madly in love with Peeta, or those you love with die, starting with Gale. He also informs Katniss that her "stunt" at the Games has set off a chain reaction of rebellion throughout the Districts. She must not fan those flames or else.

How can you smoulder a spark you didn't even mean to light, especially when you, a poor coalminer's daughter, have become the symbol of hope for a generation? Katniss better figure it out and fast. Especially since the Quarter Quell is approaching... and every 25 year anniversary of the Hunger Games holds it's own special treat for Panem. And this year's twist will no doubt leave everyone on the edge of their seats.

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The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Welcome to the 74th Annual Hunger Games!
This yearly event is the height of Reality TV. Think "Fear Factor" and "The Amazing Race" meet "Survivor".
"The Hunger Games" are hosted by the Capitol of Panem, the nation formerly known as North America, and is the punishment for the uprising of the districts against the Capitol. Each of the 12 remaining Districts is required to send 2 tributes who have been chosen during the Reaping. One that day a lottery system selects one boy and one girl between the ages of 12 and 18 to participate. In the case of this year's finalists from District 12, Katniss has stepped forward to take the place of the chosen tribute, her younger sister Prim.
Here is how the competition works. The 24 tributes (contestants) are placed in an outdoor arena specially designed by the game makers who have watched the tributes train and prepare. Once in the arena the tributes must do whatever is necessary to survive. The last tribute standing wins.
The competition is televised live so everyone in the country can watch and cheer on their tributes. The winning tribute will return home to a life of luxury. Their district will also receive a year's worth of food.
"Happy Hunger Games! And may the odds be ever in your favor!"

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The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

For many of you, books are an essential part of life. They provide enjoyment, companionship, possibly even an escape from reality. You may find ones you love, others you like, and some you despise. For Liesel Meminger, books were her source of strength, her obsession, her way of life.

"Where are my manners? I could introduce myself properly, but it's not really necessary. You will know me well enough and soon enough, depending on a diverse range of variables. It suffices to say that at some point in time, I will be standing over you, as genially as possible. You would will be in my arms. A color perched on your shoulder. I will carry you gently away."

I am Death and I saw Liesel, the book thief, only 3 times before I came to carry her away. The colors: white, black, red. Deaths of a brother, a stranger, and her whole world.

The last time I saw her I discovered something left behind, her journal, a story which I shall share with you. A story, set in Nazi Germany during World War II and the horrors of the Holocaust, that can prove human existence is worth it. Come with me.

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Tale of Two cities is a novel by Charles Dickens, and takes place in revolutionary France.

Life is at its best and worst, in 1775 England and France. The royalty and aristocrats are living high, and very extravagantly, but have been careful not to pay any attention to the injustices and brutality done to the poor and middle class. As a consequence, the rulers and their people are going to be the first to pay in the revolution that on the brink of happening. In England, the focus is off of the reforming American colonists, and instead on the high rate of conspirators, violence, and crime.

Fate and the moving, but silent, forces of the revolution are inevitable.

The characters in this book are examples of all the different types of people resembled in the non-fiction part: vengeful in order to please others, sufferers of the petty crimes that are not worth mentioning, rich people of ignorance, and those who do not want to be caught up in the revolution, in spite of what has or will happen to their families or themselves.

There is a terrific plot inside the covers, which has fiction in the midst of non fiction

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Saving Kirsten By: Jack Weyland

Kirsten Boone has always had high morals. At the young age of 18 she makes a decision to leave her family from Ashton, Idaho to head off to college in UCLA. Kirsten hopes that she will become a aspiring actress and dancer; however are her dreams close enough to reach? As soon as Kirsten arrives in UCLA situated in classes she is approached by Chad Nieteri, a young and wealthy boy who is carefree about life. At first Chad seems interested in her wholesome values and beliefs and begins dating her, but after a few dates Kirsten wonders whether Chad is true to be. Chad on the other hand has different ideas from the relationship, and needs from Kirsten. He begins what he calls the approach by knocking a girl off her feet, and then uses her to help with his life style as a leader of a gand- in which Kirsten has no idea of. As the leader of the gang Chad and his friends impersonate police officers and bust illegal drug manufacturers and dealers, and pocket the money. When Kirsten realizes what Chad wants from her she tries taking all actions- including putting her life in danger in the process. Will Kirsten ever be able to get away from Chad alive, and will Chad change himself and everything he's grown to see? Only reading this novel will let you know!

Jack Weyland uses this book to his advantage with each chapter shifting from Kirstens point of view to Chads. The reader really gets to see everthing go down, and witness the tension between the two characters and both of their struggles. I suggest this to anyone who wants a fast read and is packed with suspense!

Ratings:

4P

5Q

M Is for Magic by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman is a fantasy guru who's masterpieces include Coraline, The Graveyard Book, and Stardust. These are only the tip of the iceberg. Now comes M is for Magic. This book is a compilation of a selection of Neil Gaiman's short stories directed towards teens. Tales in this fascinating treasure box include, boys who have trouble talking to girls and end up in an otherworldly party, the investigation of Humpty Dumpty's murder, a haunting jack-in-the-box, and a boy raised in a graveyard. The later is a sneak peek at Neil Gaiman's popular novel the Graveyard Book. The stories in this novel are incredibly witty, ironically hilarious, and eerily spooky. Don't be left out, grab a copy of Gaiman's latest creation before it's too late!

P: 5 Q:5

Cirque Du Freak Graphic Novel

After a long awaited and often painful debate about which fan-comic based on Darren Shan's Cirque Du Freak series would be published, the thrilling teen vampire series has finally come out for viewing pleasure. With stunning art by Takahiro Arai, the Cirque Du Freak the graphic novel is now available. While following very closely to the original story, coming down even to the same words written by Darren Shan, the comic has an appeal all of its own. it manages to give the reader a more in place ideal of each character, along with an appearance, which may come as quite relieving for those who could never picture them in their minds. Each detail is well thought out and much suits the gritty needs of Darren Shan's writing style. Some things are left out, but it should not be expected to put very detail into art, and Takahiro Arai did a wonderful job of capturing what was important. The book actually even manages to get more perspective on the main character's best friend, soon to be enemy, Steve Leonard. If the reader can actually be made to feel sorry for Steve Leonard, then it is a powerful book indeed!

In the first book, Darren Shan, the main character as well as the name of the author due to clever and long term planning, is an average boy with all too average friends. That is, until the Cirque Du Freak comes to town. The Cirque Du Freak, French for "Circus of Freaks," throws Darren's life into hectic chaos when he and Steve sneak into a late night showing. It is easy to say that everything goes downhill from there.

Any fan of Cirque Du Freak can learn to also become a fan of the manga. The art starts out a bit awkward and strange, but it quickly melts away into something almost as enjoyable as the original series. So if you couldn't get enough of Darren Shan's novels, sink your fangs into the comics.

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The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare

Wanna read City of Bones for free? And you can't make it into the library to check out a copy? Then check out this site and read it online, for a limited time. Enjoy!

Find more goodies here, including screensavers, wallpaper, and avatars. Plus hear audio clips of each book!

If you liked Wake & Fade... check this out!

If you enjoyed Wake & Fade by Lisa McMann & can't wait for Gone to be released in Feb 2010, then check this out! You can read Lisa's short story about Cabel. http://www.simonandschuster.com/giveaways/lisa-mcmann-cabel-story

Secrets At Sea by Sabre Moore

When Sabre Moore was 13, she began writing her own novel, while enjoying life on her family ranch outside Douglas, Wyoming. By age 16, she had succeeded in finding a company that would publish her book. Secrets At Sea is the result.

In Ms. Moore’s richly descriptive novel, you meet Zandra, a young woman with a rough past. In order to avoid an arranged marriage, Zandra runs away, disguises herself as Zander Knight and acquires a job as a cabin boy on a ship. But her life is no picnic and Zandra/Zander/Hawk not only must fight to keep her identity a secret but also to stay alive. Join in Zandra’s adventures complete with swordfights, predatory beasts, and pirates.

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A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L'Engle

A Wrinkle in Time, is a artful masterpiece that has captivated readers since 1962. I first read this novel as a young girl and found later that it appeals to all ages. It is the story of young Meg Murry who in the course of events is visited by three celestial beings. These creatures inform Meg and her family that her long lost father is alive but being held captive in another dimension. Meg's journey had many underlying themes that include religious allusions and a fascinating array of symbolism. Also the evil entity IT, is sure to give anyone the creeps. A Wrinkle in Time is a classic that will never fade and should be read at least once in one's life. Reader's of all sorts are sure to enjoy this book and Sci-fi fans will drool over it.
P:5 Q:5

Mushishi by Yuki Urushibara

Enter the world of ancient Japan, where mysterious creatures called Mushi roam about freely as they please. Some Mushi serve good purposes, such as keeping the land green and growing. Others, usually parasitic Mushi, can cause illness and other issues of health among the people in the villages. Enter Ginko, a strange, white-haired, one-eyed wanderer that disposes of the dangerous types of Mushi. Ginko, and many others that are gifted enough to actually see the invisible Mushi, are called Mushishi. The reader follows Ginko on his journeys across Japan, discovering different types of Mushi and why they do what they do, for better of for worse. Along the way, Ginko's mysterious past and his experience with Mushi slowly begins to unravel. It seems the only question that isn't answered so far in the series is why Ginko wears modern day clothing, when the rest of the dwellers of Japan wear the traditional garb of their time.

It is easy to say that Yuki Urushibara is a genius at character design and storytelling, as well as art. While the style is sketchy and uncertain at the beginning of the story, the lines become firm and the plot becomes evident. With stunning drawings and creative tales about all the different types of Mushi, Yuki Urushibara's 'Mushishi' can attract even the most disinterested of readers.

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**This title is available through InterLibrary Loan**

Sunrise Over Fallujah by Walter Dean Myers

Robin “Birdy” Perry is from Harlem, New York. He joined the Army, against his father’s wishes. Yeah, he had other choices, mainly going to college to study finance. But after the terrorist attacks on 9-11, Robin felt a duty to his country, an obligation to stand up and defend his home, like his Uncle Richie had done in Vietnam (Fallen Angels).

It’s February 2003 and Operation Iraqi Freedom is underway. Birdy is part of the Civil Affairs Unit, which is being sent out as a mediator between the military and the civilians, hoping to stabilize and secure Iraq, by delivering medical care and supplies among other things.

But WAR is not what Birdy expected. It’s easy to identify uniformed Coalition Forces. But how do you tell who the enemy is? And with Saddam Hussein out of power, why are we still there?

Join Birdy for a close-up look at the reality of serving in Iraq, as he finds himself in the middle of sandstorms that last for days, having to leave the so-called safe zones at all hours for missions that are increasingly dangerous, and never knowing if he will make it home to patch things up with his dad.

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Boneman's Daughters by: Ted Tekker

Boneman's Dauthers written by Ted Dekker, is a story of devotion, love, and pain that a father will go through for his Daughter. Ryan Evans- the not so perfect father left his family 7 years ago to follow his dream of becoming a naval intelligence officer over in the Middle East. After surviving as a P.O.V.- and the trauma that has consumed his mind. He realizes the effects that War has on innocent families, and the lives that are taken. He heads back to Texas to win his wife back, and become the father Claire (his daughter) has always wanted. Everything changes upon Ryan's arrival- everything that he has suffered from war- all the devotion, and relation is all questioned. In an instant everything changes when Boneman- a serial killer from Texas takes Claire who he believes is "his" perfect daughter. The only problem is, when a daughter fails to reach his expectations- he breaks their bones one by one, and Claire is number 8 on his list of daughters. All the evidence points that Ryan is the Boneman. In the end the hunter will be the hunted, and only ONE father will survive. Ted Dekker's description and suspense will leave you breathless as you work your way through the novel.

Ratings:

5Q

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=]

As Sure As Dawn by Francine Rivers

As sure As the Dawn is written by Francine Rivers, and is the third and final book in The Mark of the Lion series.

Atretes has survived ten years as a gladiator in the roman Colosseum. Supervisors and game hosts filled his days with human rewards, beatings, and fighting to survive at all costs.

Out of the arena at last, but still unable to let go of his victims, Atretes becomes bored, and drunk. Suddenly receiving information that his son lives, Atretes begins to make preparations to travel back to his home, Germania, where he was taken years ago. With his son in his arms, Atretes begins the perilous journey. Also accompanying him, is Rizpah, a widow with a past, and a roman centurion, Theophilus. Atretes, still bitter and angry over what he lost and Rome took, trusting Theophilus, and even Rizpah is still a big challenge. With Germania becoming ever closer, Atretes must ultimately decide whether he will lead his people to faith, or to eternal darkness.

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