Johnson, Wendy. Socks from the Toe Up.
Potter Craft (see Random) 2009 128p 22.95 978-0-307-44944-3 hs/adult
The current knitting craze for new and improved sock patterns has led to the development of many different methods. This book, written by well-known knitting blogger Wendy Johnson, works the sock from the toe up which allows from better fit and adjustments. The current knitting craze for new and improved sock patterns has led to the development of many different methods. This book, written by well-known knitting blogger Wendy Johnson (wendyknits.net) works the sock from the toe up which allows from better fit and adjustments. The book begins with discussions about the three needle choices and other necessary tools to use, different weights of sock yarn, and the techniques that she recommends for each of her patterns. There are five different toe cast-ons, three heel turns, and four bind-offs included. Each of the twenty-three sock patterns utilizes several different but interchangeable approaches. This attractive book is written in a clear and concise manner. The instructions are clearly presented with excellent page layouts and choices of typefaces and colors, and colorful photographs which highlight the finished patterns. Ms. Johnson also has a follow-up book in the works to be published shortly. SO.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Johnson, Peter. Loserville.
Johnson, Peter. Loserville.
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2009 150 17.95 978-1-59078-581-2 hs/adult
Nobody knows how much pain Derek Grace is experiencing in Loserville, not even his friends, in this tragic novel about a teenager who sees no recourse other than to run away from his family and friends. Loserville is a thought-provoking book that will have young adults and parents discussing what went wrong in Derek's life to lead him stage his own suicide and disappear. Derek did not seem to be on this path, and that is what is disturbing. Surrounded by good friends who exhibited somewhat questionable yet not atypical teen behaviors, Derek's pain was not evident, not until he appeared on a reality TV show called Loserville, run by egomaniac, Jesus, who takes a family, dissects its problems on nationwide television, then treats the children like they're at boot camp, crushing and never helping. Derek's role models were hopeless, and that is part of what contributed to his lack of direction. His English teacher, Mr. Sparks, was a user, offering his home, marihuana, and companionship to a small group of students in return for kicks and some help with his summer business. Derek's father, in mourning after the death of Derek's mother, was unable to communicate with Derek, especially after he married a young, recovered drug addict, the sexy Claudia. Derek's friends, all preppies, were fun-loving and supportive. In a vague way, we can feel that something bad is going to happen. Even after his disappearance, there is no one to help Derek's friends cope with the loss. Derek's girlfriend Coco is left with a tattoo depicting a cross with a letter D wrapped around it, a permanent reminder of their relationship. The session at the tattoo parlor, which might have foreshadowed a cataclysmic event, seemed to be a normal rite of passage. The final moments at a golf course which shows the friends celebrating the end of the summer, represented a happy time before the climax, Derek's appearance on Loserville. MS.
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2009 150 17.95 978-1-59078-581-2 hs/adult
Nobody knows how much pain Derek Grace is experiencing in Loserville, not even his friends, in this tragic novel about a teenager who sees no recourse other than to run away from his family and friends. Loserville is a thought-provoking book that will have young adults and parents discussing what went wrong in Derek's life to lead him stage his own suicide and disappear. Derek did not seem to be on this path, and that is what is disturbing. Surrounded by good friends who exhibited somewhat questionable yet not atypical teen behaviors, Derek's pain was not evident, not until he appeared on a reality TV show called Loserville, run by egomaniac, Jesus, who takes a family, dissects its problems on nationwide television, then treats the children like they're at boot camp, crushing and never helping. Derek's role models were hopeless, and that is part of what contributed to his lack of direction. His English teacher, Mr. Sparks, was a user, offering his home, marihuana, and companionship to a small group of students in return for kicks and some help with his summer business. Derek's father, in mourning after the death of Derek's mother, was unable to communicate with Derek, especially after he married a young, recovered drug addict, the sexy Claudia. Derek's friends, all preppies, were fun-loving and supportive. In a vague way, we can feel that something bad is going to happen. Even after his disappearance, there is no one to help Derek's friends cope with the loss. Derek's girlfriend Coco is left with a tattoo depicting a cross with a letter D wrapped around it, a permanent reminder of their relationship. The session at the tattoo parlor, which might have foreshadowed a cataclysmic event, seemed to be a normal rite of passage. The final moments at a golf course which shows the friends celebrating the end of the summer, represented a happy time before the climax, Derek's appearance on Loserville. MS.
Jinks, Catherine. The Reformed Vampire Support Group.
Jinks, Catherine. The Reformed Vampire Support Group.
Harcourt Brace 2009 362 17.00 978-0-15-206609-3 ms/hs
Wry, humorous take on the vampire life. Fifteen year old (since 1973) Nina hates being a vampire, dislikes the other vampires in her support group and like other vampires is sickly, struggling financially, and dedicated to not inflicting this condition on any others.
When one of her own is killed, an adventure ensues that has her and her comrades rescuing a teen werewolf, fending off two evil mortal (and then not) men, and realizing that being a vampire can be okay. Jenks puts a wry, humorous take on the vampire life.
In this book, the vampires are sickly, struggling financially, and dedicated to not inflicting this condition on any other people. The story is told from the perspective of Nina, a fifteen year old (since 1973) vampire who hates being a vampire. She is repulsed by having to feed on the blood of guinea pigs, loathes having to sleep in a dark space all day, and dislikes most of the members of her Reformed Vampire Support Group. The support group meets weekly under the leadership of Father Ramon, a Catholic priest, and they are committed to refrain from biting any humans. When one of their own is staked, they know they must find the slayer who now knows where they all live. The group holes up in Nina's mother's house since it is deemed safest place and with a silver bullet as their only clue, Nina and some of her group set out to track down the killer. Along the way, they free a captured teen werewolf who is forced to fight and kill other werewolves in a pit for the amusement of the audience. Many adventures ensue with the outcome that Nina falls in love with one of her fellow vampires. This title is humorous, gory, audacious, and suspenseful. It will be an excellent addition to middle and high school library collections of vampire genre fiction. Recommended for Tristate Books of Note. TW.
Harcourt Brace 2009 362 17.00 978-0-15-206609-3 ms/hs
Wry, humorous take on the vampire life. Fifteen year old (since 1973) Nina hates being a vampire, dislikes the other vampires in her support group and like other vampires is sickly, struggling financially, and dedicated to not inflicting this condition on any others.
When one of her own is killed, an adventure ensues that has her and her comrades rescuing a teen werewolf, fending off two evil mortal (and then not) men, and realizing that being a vampire can be okay. Jenks puts a wry, humorous take on the vampire life.
In this book, the vampires are sickly, struggling financially, and dedicated to not inflicting this condition on any other people. The story is told from the perspective of Nina, a fifteen year old (since 1973) vampire who hates being a vampire. She is repulsed by having to feed on the blood of guinea pigs, loathes having to sleep in a dark space all day, and dislikes most of the members of her Reformed Vampire Support Group. The support group meets weekly under the leadership of Father Ramon, a Catholic priest, and they are committed to refrain from biting any humans. When one of their own is staked, they know they must find the slayer who now knows where they all live. The group holes up in Nina's mother's house since it is deemed safest place and with a silver bullet as their only clue, Nina and some of her group set out to track down the killer. Along the way, they free a captured teen werewolf who is forced to fight and kill other werewolves in a pit for the amusement of the audience. Many adventures ensue with the outcome that Nina falls in love with one of her fellow vampires. This title is humorous, gory, audacious, and suspenseful. It will be an excellent addition to middle and high school library collections of vampire genre fiction. Recommended for Tristate Books of Note. TW.
Jeffs, Brent. Lost Boy.
Jeffs, Brent. Lost Boy.
Broadway Books see Random 2009 241p 24.95 978-0-7679-3177-9 hs/adult
Brent Jeffs, member of a fundamentalist Mormon sect, tells about life in a polygamist community and the sexual abuse from leader Warren Jeffs. Brent heartbreakingly documents the life of boys who are culled to lessen the number of males. For grades 10 and older. Brent Jeffs knew something was wrong when he was five years old and he was sexually abused by Warren Jeffs, leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS). Life inside a polygamist community is well documented with all the jealousy between wives, lack of money to feed the 15 people in Brent's household, and the strict religious guidelines followed in the community. The biblical background and Mormon beliefs adopted by this sect are explained along with the feelings that members had in following the dictates of Warren Jeffs. As the dictates grew more strict - what TV shows were acceptable, what clothing had to be worn, the contact allowed between sexes outside of marriage, and the beliefs that Gentiles were evil - the lives of members became almost robotic. Polygamy depends upon having fewer males than females as each male strives for at least three wives. Therefore, two of Brent's older brothers are rejected for various sins and tossed out of the community. As Brent's family succumbs to infighting between wives, Brent too leaves the community. All three brothers descend into drug and alcohol addiction with the older two brothers committing suicide. Brent struggles with assimilation into city life as do all the "Lost Boys" who are cast out of the FLDS. Brent's childhood memories come to haunt him and he along with other "Lost Boys" file a lawsuit against Warren Jeffs for sexual abuse that leads to Warren's imprisonment. Strong, realistic depiction of drug use, sexual abuse and occasional language limit this book to upper high school and adults who are curious about the FLDS. LMcN
Broadway Books see Random 2009 241p 24.95 978-0-7679-3177-9 hs/adult
Brent Jeffs, member of a fundamentalist Mormon sect, tells about life in a polygamist community and the sexual abuse from leader Warren Jeffs. Brent heartbreakingly documents the life of boys who are culled to lessen the number of males. For grades 10 and older. Brent Jeffs knew something was wrong when he was five years old and he was sexually abused by Warren Jeffs, leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS). Life inside a polygamist community is well documented with all the jealousy between wives, lack of money to feed the 15 people in Brent's household, and the strict religious guidelines followed in the community. The biblical background and Mormon beliefs adopted by this sect are explained along with the feelings that members had in following the dictates of Warren Jeffs. As the dictates grew more strict - what TV shows were acceptable, what clothing had to be worn, the contact allowed between sexes outside of marriage, and the beliefs that Gentiles were evil - the lives of members became almost robotic. Polygamy depends upon having fewer males than females as each male strives for at least three wives. Therefore, two of Brent's older brothers are rejected for various sins and tossed out of the community. As Brent's family succumbs to infighting between wives, Brent too leaves the community. All three brothers descend into drug and alcohol addiction with the older two brothers committing suicide. Brent struggles with assimilation into city life as do all the "Lost Boys" who are cast out of the FLDS. Brent's childhood memories come to haunt him and he along with other "Lost Boys" file a lawsuit against Warren Jeffs for sexual abuse that leads to Warren's imprisonment. Strong, realistic depiction of drug use, sexual abuse and occasional language limit this book to upper high school and adults who are curious about the FLDS. LMcN
Hennesy, Carolyn. Pandora Gets Lazy.
Hennesy, Carolyn. Pandora Gets Lazy.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 277p 14.99 978-1-59990-198-5 elm/ms
Greek myths gone modern. Pandora is trying to recapture the evils she loosed on the world, accompanied by three friends and with some help from the Gods. Taking place in ancient times, Pandy and her friends speak modern slang, well totally, duh. Greek myths with a modern twist. Pandora and three friends, Iole, Alcie, and Homer, are attempting to recapture the evils she released into the world. In this, the third book, Pandy , as she prefers to be known, is on the trail of Laziness. It has taken root in her uncle Atlas. He is having men captured from all over the ancient world to take his place holding up the heavens. Each man is set on a pillar and survived only three days. Homer is captured by pirates and sold to slavers to be brought to the mountains to serve his turn. Pandora has been traveling a different route to the same mountain since she fell out of Apollo's chariot. This is the high mountain where Atlas was fated to spend eternity at his task. Using wit, luck, bravery, some cunning, and a bit of help from the Gods, the four friends achieve their task and set off in search of the next evil.
Designed to catch the wave of interest in Greek myths generated by Riordan's series, this series is an acceptable imitation. A pleasurable read possibly enticing girls to read more mythology. JT.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 277p 14.99 978-1-59990-198-5 elm/ms
Greek myths gone modern. Pandora is trying to recapture the evils she loosed on the world, accompanied by three friends and with some help from the Gods. Taking place in ancient times, Pandy and her friends speak modern slang, well totally, duh. Greek myths with a modern twist. Pandora and three friends, Iole, Alcie, and Homer, are attempting to recapture the evils she released into the world. In this, the third book, Pandy , as she prefers to be known, is on the trail of Laziness. It has taken root in her uncle Atlas. He is having men captured from all over the ancient world to take his place holding up the heavens. Each man is set on a pillar and survived only three days. Homer is captured by pirates and sold to slavers to be brought to the mountains to serve his turn. Pandora has been traveling a different route to the same mountain since she fell out of Apollo's chariot. This is the high mountain where Atlas was fated to spend eternity at his task. Using wit, luck, bravery, some cunning, and a bit of help from the Gods, the four friends achieve their task and set off in search of the next evil.
Designed to catch the wave of interest in Greek myths generated by Riordan's series, this series is an acceptable imitation. A pleasurable read possibly enticing girls to read more mythology. JT.
Hart, Christopher. Extreme Art Ultimate Books of Trace and draw Manga, revised.
Hart, Christopher. Extreme Art Ultimate Books of Trace and draw Manga, revised. Watson-Guptill (see Random) 2009 192 21.95 978-0-8230-9806-4 ms/hs
Previously published as three separate titles, this combination provides step-by-step instructions for drawing Manga type characters. This easy to follow book presents three basic types of characters: teens, chibis, and monsters. Fans of Manga art will love this title.
This easy to follow book presents three basic types of characters: teens, chibis (cute ones) and monsters (which can be friend or foe). The author, who has many other how-to-draw books, starts out with certain characteristics of the characters, like eyes, hair, body type and hands. Then he proceeds to full characters using a two page spread with one page divided into four steps and then a full page representation. The drawings are in black and white, with a few lines outlined in orange. Not only are there instructions on drawing the characters free hand, but the large, full page representations will enable the artistically challenged to trace the character. There are 80 characters in all. Fans of Manga art, cartoons and books will love this title.
This title is an excellent choice for libraries from elementary school up through high school. Librarians be warned: you will not be able to keep this book on the shelves; buy multiple copies! TW.
Previously published as three separate titles, this combination provides step-by-step instructions for drawing Manga type characters. This easy to follow book presents three basic types of characters: teens, chibis, and monsters. Fans of Manga art will love this title.
This easy to follow book presents three basic types of characters: teens, chibis (cute ones) and monsters (which can be friend or foe). The author, who has many other how-to-draw books, starts out with certain characteristics of the characters, like eyes, hair, body type and hands. Then he proceeds to full characters using a two page spread with one page divided into four steps and then a full page representation. The drawings are in black and white, with a few lines outlined in orange. Not only are there instructions on drawing the characters free hand, but the large, full page representations will enable the artistically challenged to trace the character. There are 80 characters in all. Fans of Manga art, cartoons and books will love this title.
This title is an excellent choice for libraries from elementary school up through high school. Librarians be warned: you will not be able to keep this book on the shelves; buy multiple copies! TW.
Harris, Lewis. A Taste for Red.
Harris, Lewis. A Taste for Red.
Clarion see Houghton Mifflin 2009 169p 16.00 978-0-547-14462-7 elm/ms What happens if your sixth grade science teacher is your mortal enemy? Svetlana Grimm thinks she is a vampire. She is greatly disturbed when her science teacher begins reading her mind and invading her thoughts. Could she also be a vampire???? Svetlana has been home schooled until her mother takes a job as she is entering sixth grade. Life for Svetlana will change drastically when she enters Sunny Hill Middle School. First of all she doesn't fit in with the other kids and she does strange things such as eat only red food items. The activities in the school were also strange with kids disappearing and Mrs Larch the science teacher causing problems.
The author has written a fantastically funny story that will appeal to middle schooler everywhere. Who wouldn't want to imagine that their science teacher is a vampire. The feelings and emotions the characters undergo in this novel accurately reflect some of the insecurities that middle schoolers confront daily.
It is a good read that will be very popular with teenagers today as it parallels the current vampire reading rage. LM.
Clarion see Houghton Mifflin 2009 169p 16.00 978-0-547-14462-7 elm/ms What happens if your sixth grade science teacher is your mortal enemy? Svetlana Grimm thinks she is a vampire. She is greatly disturbed when her science teacher begins reading her mind and invading her thoughts. Could she also be a vampire???? Svetlana has been home schooled until her mother takes a job as she is entering sixth grade. Life for Svetlana will change drastically when she enters Sunny Hill Middle School. First of all she doesn't fit in with the other kids and she does strange things such as eat only red food items. The activities in the school were also strange with kids disappearing and Mrs Larch the science teacher causing problems.
The author has written a fantastically funny story that will appeal to middle schooler everywhere. Who wouldn't want to imagine that their science teacher is a vampire. The feelings and emotions the characters undergo in this novel accurately reflect some of the insecurities that middle schoolers confront daily.
It is a good read that will be very popular with teenagers today as it parallels the current vampire reading rage. LM.
Hahn, Mary Downing. Closed for the Season.
Hahn, Mary Downing. Closed for the Season.
Clarion see Houghton Mifflin 2009 182p 16.00 978-0-547-08451-0 elm/ms
Quirky neighbor Arthur befriends the new boy on the block and reveals to him that a murder took place in his new house. The unusual pair solves the mystery and becomes heroes of their school. Mary Downing Hahn knows how to tell a good mystery that will have children choosing her books! The eerie Magic Forest is an abandoned children's paradise, complete with children's favorite childhood characters like Old King Cole and Humpty-Dumpty. Now covered in eerie kudzu vines, the park houses a dark secret. Who stole the park's ticket sale money, and how did Myrtle Donaldson, the ticket lady, meet her demise? Could she really have stolen thousands of dollars and gone to her grave with the secret of where she stashed it? When Logan's family moves into the house where she was murdered, next-door neighbor and sleuth, Arthur, steps in. With more than typical childhood curiosity and lack of good manners, he is the teenager that nobody wants to befriend. He "adopts" Logan, and they set on an adventure that leads them to become young detectives. With excellent characterizations of the main characters as well as of the shady characters and a setting inside a closed amusement park, the book will capture the interest of a reluctant reader. When the boys solve the mystery, and the father of a popular student is implicated in the crime, we learn that sometimes children do pick friends who add a certain "je ne sais quoi" to their lives, despite what adults think! MS.
Clarion see Houghton Mifflin 2009 182p 16.00 978-0-547-08451-0 elm/ms
Quirky neighbor Arthur befriends the new boy on the block and reveals to him that a murder took place in his new house. The unusual pair solves the mystery and becomes heroes of their school. Mary Downing Hahn knows how to tell a good mystery that will have children choosing her books! The eerie Magic Forest is an abandoned children's paradise, complete with children's favorite childhood characters like Old King Cole and Humpty-Dumpty. Now covered in eerie kudzu vines, the park houses a dark secret. Who stole the park's ticket sale money, and how did Myrtle Donaldson, the ticket lady, meet her demise? Could she really have stolen thousands of dollars and gone to her grave with the secret of where she stashed it? When Logan's family moves into the house where she was murdered, next-door neighbor and sleuth, Arthur, steps in. With more than typical childhood curiosity and lack of good manners, he is the teenager that nobody wants to befriend. He "adopts" Logan, and they set on an adventure that leads them to become young detectives. With excellent characterizations of the main characters as well as of the shady characters and a setting inside a closed amusement park, the book will capture the interest of a reluctant reader. When the boys solve the mystery, and the father of a popular student is implicated in the crime, we learn that sometimes children do pick friends who add a certain "je ne sais quoi" to their lives, despite what adults think! MS.
Grant, Vicki. Identificacion.
Grant, Vicki. Identificacion.
Orca 2009 112p 9.95 978-1-55469-134-1 hs/adult
Christopher finds a wallet and attempts to return it, unsuccessfully. This teen from the "other side of the tracks" follows a path to self destruction as he tries to escape his problems by assuming the identity of the person whose wallet he found. Upon finding a wallet, Christopher tries to do the right thing. Life has another path for Chris, however. We sense that Chris feels picked on from the very beginning of the book when he discusses Mr. Oxner, a teacher who punishes Chris repeatedly for every little thing. When rich girl Alexa shows him some attention, Chris believes that she will go to a dance with him. Imagine his feeling of inadequacy when she refuses to go! Feeling himself trapped in a poor relationship with his stepfather and feeling the derision of his own mother, he decided to use the money and credit cards in the wallet to escape. In this "Prince and the Pauper" novelette, Vicki Grant leads us on a journey of self destruction. The careful reader will "catch" Grant's attempt to foreshadow a negative ending when Chris calls the home of the man whose wallet he found only to hear that no such person lived at that address. That's a definite red flag that an adult might catch, but tragically, Chris does not think it through. He continues his transformation by purchasing a suit, then by using the credit cards to pay for food, a taxi ride, and a hotel room.
There is suspense, and Grant catches us unprepared when at the end of the story, she shocks the reader into realizing that Chris has ruined his life because the identity he stole was that of a criminal. The reader is left to guess what will happen to Chris after the policeman arrests him for murder, drug deals and arms possession.
This is a gem of a bilingual story with wonderful character development and a compelling plot. The translation is perfect. MS
Orca 2009 112p 9.95 978-1-55469-134-1 hs/adult
Christopher finds a wallet and attempts to return it, unsuccessfully. This teen from the "other side of the tracks" follows a path to self destruction as he tries to escape his problems by assuming the identity of the person whose wallet he found. Upon finding a wallet, Christopher tries to do the right thing. Life has another path for Chris, however. We sense that Chris feels picked on from the very beginning of the book when he discusses Mr. Oxner, a teacher who punishes Chris repeatedly for every little thing. When rich girl Alexa shows him some attention, Chris believes that she will go to a dance with him. Imagine his feeling of inadequacy when she refuses to go! Feeling himself trapped in a poor relationship with his stepfather and feeling the derision of his own mother, he decided to use the money and credit cards in the wallet to escape. In this "Prince and the Pauper" novelette, Vicki Grant leads us on a journey of self destruction. The careful reader will "catch" Grant's attempt to foreshadow a negative ending when Chris calls the home of the man whose wallet he found only to hear that no such person lived at that address. That's a definite red flag that an adult might catch, but tragically, Chris does not think it through. He continues his transformation by purchasing a suit, then by using the credit cards to pay for food, a taxi ride, and a hotel room.
There is suspense, and Grant catches us unprepared when at the end of the story, she shocks the reader into realizing that Chris has ruined his life because the identity he stole was that of a criminal. The reader is left to guess what will happen to Chris after the policeman arrests him for murder, drug deals and arms possession.
This is a gem of a bilingual story with wonderful character development and a compelling plot. The translation is perfect. MS
George, Jessica Day. Princess of the Midnight Ball.
George, Jessica Day. Princess of the Midnight Ball.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 276p 16.99 978-1-59990-322-4 ms/hs
A retelling of the tale of twelve princesses who wear out their shoes dancing every night, and of Galen, a former soldier now working in the king's gardens, follows them in hopes of breaking the curse. In this retelling of the Grim classic fairy tale, King Gregor is concerned about his twelve daughters. The girls wear out dancing shoes at a furious pace but they cannot tell him how or why but it is obvious that they are unhappy to be dancing. Visiting princes who come to solve the mystery and win the hand of a princess in marriage meet untimely deaths. This state of affairs attracts the attention of the religious authorities who are convinced the princesses are using witchcraft and are directly responsible for the deaths. It also attracts the attention of Galen Werner, a former soldier working as a gardener in the royal palace. Galen is in love with Rose, the eldest of the twelve dancing princesses, and when it is obvious that there is no one who can aid the king or the princesses, Galen convinces the king to give him permission to solve the mystery. Galen also has a few tricks up his sleeve thanks to an invisible cloak, magic herbs and silver knitting needles, which he will need to use to defeat the evil forces that have a hold over the princesses. Although readers can surmise that Galen and his weapons will triumph, this knowledge does not diminish the enjoyment of seeing how Galen frees the princesses from their unwanted contract which they inherited from their mother. As a character, Galen almost seems too good to be true, but when one needs to defeat the forces of evil, it would be impossible to be otherwise. Rose, rather than wait to be rescued, shows much ingenuity and backbone, particularly when she joins forces with Galen. Her sisters likewise refuse to sit idly by. Much time is spent establishing the plot and character development, but once this is done the pace of the plot proceeds quickly. Everyone lives happily ever after in this enjoyable version of a classic fairy tale. RZ
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 276p 16.99 978-1-59990-322-4 ms/hs
A retelling of the tale of twelve princesses who wear out their shoes dancing every night, and of Galen, a former soldier now working in the king's gardens, follows them in hopes of breaking the curse. In this retelling of the Grim classic fairy tale, King Gregor is concerned about his twelve daughters. The girls wear out dancing shoes at a furious pace but they cannot tell him how or why but it is obvious that they are unhappy to be dancing. Visiting princes who come to solve the mystery and win the hand of a princess in marriage meet untimely deaths. This state of affairs attracts the attention of the religious authorities who are convinced the princesses are using witchcraft and are directly responsible for the deaths. It also attracts the attention of Galen Werner, a former soldier working as a gardener in the royal palace. Galen is in love with Rose, the eldest of the twelve dancing princesses, and when it is obvious that there is no one who can aid the king or the princesses, Galen convinces the king to give him permission to solve the mystery. Galen also has a few tricks up his sleeve thanks to an invisible cloak, magic herbs and silver knitting needles, which he will need to use to defeat the evil forces that have a hold over the princesses. Although readers can surmise that Galen and his weapons will triumph, this knowledge does not diminish the enjoyment of seeing how Galen frees the princesses from their unwanted contract which they inherited from their mother. As a character, Galen almost seems too good to be true, but when one needs to defeat the forces of evil, it would be impossible to be otherwise. Rose, rather than wait to be rescued, shows much ingenuity and backbone, particularly when she joins forces with Galen. Her sisters likewise refuse to sit idly by. Much time is spent establishing the plot and character development, but once this is done the pace of the plot proceeds quickly. Everyone lives happily ever after in this enjoyable version of a classic fairy tale. RZ
George, Jessica. Dragon Spear.
George, Jessica. Dragon Spear.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 248p 16.99 978-1-59990-369-9 ms
In this sequel to Dragon Slippers and Dragon Flight; seamstress extraordinaire Creel, and her fianceé Prince Luka are bound for a visit to their dragon friends in the Far Isles where Luka's father has exiled the dragons. While there, Velika, the pregnant dragon queen, is kidnapped by a rival group of dragons and Creel and Luka must put their wedding plans aside as they help the king, Shardas, find his mate. In this sequel to Dragon Slippers and Dragon Flight, seamstress extraordinaire Creel and her fianceé Prince Luka are bound for a visit to their dragon friends in the Far Isles where Luka's father has exiled the dragons. While there, Velika, the pregnant dragon queen, is kidnapped by a rival group of dragons and Creel and Luka must put their wedding plans aside as they help the dragon king, Shardas, find his mate.
Filled with exciting adventures and a plucky pair of young people who have no hesitation about throwing themselves into danger to protect their friends, this engaging fantasy is a sprightly written and exciting adventure. It offers both fantasy and suspenseful action in a well-paced plot and with engaging characters. The story is rich and interesting, the locations are beautifully rendered, and the characters are very three-dimensional. The author mixes humor, adventure, political intrigues, magic, and romance into this very well done book. An introduction to the characters and previous plots would have helped new readers adjust but they are sure to go back and read the earlier volumes. SO
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 248p 16.99 978-1-59990-369-9 ms
In this sequel to Dragon Slippers and Dragon Flight; seamstress extraordinaire Creel, and her fianceé Prince Luka are bound for a visit to their dragon friends in the Far Isles where Luka's father has exiled the dragons. While there, Velika, the pregnant dragon queen, is kidnapped by a rival group of dragons and Creel and Luka must put their wedding plans aside as they help the king, Shardas, find his mate. In this sequel to Dragon Slippers and Dragon Flight, seamstress extraordinaire Creel and her fianceé Prince Luka are bound for a visit to their dragon friends in the Far Isles where Luka's father has exiled the dragons. While there, Velika, the pregnant dragon queen, is kidnapped by a rival group of dragons and Creel and Luka must put their wedding plans aside as they help the dragon king, Shardas, find his mate.
Filled with exciting adventures and a plucky pair of young people who have no hesitation about throwing themselves into danger to protect their friends, this engaging fantasy is a sprightly written and exciting adventure. It offers both fantasy and suspenseful action in a well-paced plot and with engaging characters. The story is rich and interesting, the locations are beautifully rendered, and the characters are very three-dimensional. The author mixes humor, adventure, political intrigues, magic, and romance into this very well done book. An introduction to the characters and previous plots would have helped new readers adjust but they are sure to go back and read the earlier volumes. SO
Gargee, Jeanne. Say the Word.
Gargee, Jeanne. Say the Word.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 360p 16.99 978-1-59990-333-0 hs
Shawna's dysfunctional family includes a mother that pursued a lesbian relationship, a possessive father, her mother's lesbian lover and two children, one who is found to be the biological son of Shawna's mother and father. Thought provoking for high schools. Shawna wonders who she is, the perfect Shawna doing what is expected, the pathetic Shawna who avoids confrontation, or the evil Shawna whose words can injure. Shawna's viewpoint of a person who is emotionally, but not sexually attached to lesbians make this book unique. Shawna's mother left for a lesbian relationship with Fran when Shawna was seven. Her father is a controlling, possessive man who will never forgive her mother even when she dies. Dad sets out to ruin Fran and starts legal proceedings to take the young brother, who is actually his and his ex-wife's biological child. Shawna's best friend since childhood reveals she is a lesbian. Does Shawna reject her old friend and her newfound brothers, or does she just ignore them? Her hurtful words about homosexuality come back to haunt her as she becomes more comfortable with their alternative lifestyle. When the biological brother comes to live with Shawna, only Shawna realizes the boy is depressed enough to be suicidal. As Shawna builds a secret relationship with Fran and boys, Fran's older son becomes romantically involved with Shawna including an one-night-stand sexual relationship that almost seems gratuitous as she knows she will never see him again. Too many issues: Alzheimer's, career choices, homosexuality, and religion, cloud the smooth flow of the plot . However there is much to think about for grades 9-12. LMcN
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 360p 16.99 978-1-59990-333-0 hs
Shawna's dysfunctional family includes a mother that pursued a lesbian relationship, a possessive father, her mother's lesbian lover and two children, one who is found to be the biological son of Shawna's mother and father. Thought provoking for high schools. Shawna wonders who she is, the perfect Shawna doing what is expected, the pathetic Shawna who avoids confrontation, or the evil Shawna whose words can injure. Shawna's viewpoint of a person who is emotionally, but not sexually attached to lesbians make this book unique. Shawna's mother left for a lesbian relationship with Fran when Shawna was seven. Her father is a controlling, possessive man who will never forgive her mother even when she dies. Dad sets out to ruin Fran and starts legal proceedings to take the young brother, who is actually his and his ex-wife's biological child. Shawna's best friend since childhood reveals she is a lesbian. Does Shawna reject her old friend and her newfound brothers, or does she just ignore them? Her hurtful words about homosexuality come back to haunt her as she becomes more comfortable with their alternative lifestyle. When the biological brother comes to live with Shawna, only Shawna realizes the boy is depressed enough to be suicidal. As Shawna builds a secret relationship with Fran and boys, Fran's older son becomes romantically involved with Shawna including an one-night-stand sexual relationship that almost seems gratuitous as she knows she will never see him again. Too many issues: Alzheimer's, career choices, homosexuality, and religion, cloud the smooth flow of the plot . However there is much to think about for grades 9-12. LMcN
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Batman: Whatever Happened to the Capered Crusader? (Deluxe edition)
Gaiman, Neil & Andy Kubert. Batman: Whatever Happened to the Capered Crusader? (Deluxe edition)
DC Comics 2009 unp 24.99 978-1-1401-2230-3-8 ms/hs
Batman's Death is the focus with subplots related to Catwoman, The Joker and the Riddler. Three other stories include Black and White World, Pavane about Poison Ivy, and Original Sins about the Riddler. Exquisite color, crisp artistry and superhero status will enthrall any Batman fan of any age.
Gaiman manages to capture the essence of Batman through the story of Batman's funeral. All his associates, both friend or foe, show up at his funeral. Featured are the Joker and Catwoman. For those unfamiliar with Batman's Gotham city, readers will find about Batman's early life as well as the lives of those he fights. Exquisite color and crisp artistry by Andy Kubert and Scott Williams and easy to read text draw the reader into the story. The artistry renders Batman from the perspective of many former Batman illustrators. One section shows the creation of a few pages from the rough layout through pencil renderings. Perfect for the art student who wants to draw Batman and Gotham City. The stories of Poison Ivy, Cat Woman and The Riddler flesh out the intricate personalities that Batman encounters. Whether a new fan of Batman or a lifelong fan of the series, this book will be a must purchase for all due to the excellent art work - some almost like oil paintings - that engage the reader to look deeper into the artwork to find hidden insights. Mention of classics such as Moby Dick, Shakespeare and even "Goodnight Moon" abound. The suspense of each section will carry the reader deep into the story line. A must purchase for Batman aficionados of any age. LMcN Superheroes
DC Comics 2009 unp 24.99 978-1-1401-2230-3-8 ms/hs
Batman's Death is the focus with subplots related to Catwoman, The Joker and the Riddler. Three other stories include Black and White World, Pavane about Poison Ivy, and Original Sins about the Riddler. Exquisite color, crisp artistry and superhero status will enthrall any Batman fan of any age.
Gaiman manages to capture the essence of Batman through the story of Batman's funeral. All his associates, both friend or foe, show up at his funeral. Featured are the Joker and Catwoman. For those unfamiliar with Batman's Gotham city, readers will find about Batman's early life as well as the lives of those he fights. Exquisite color and crisp artistry by Andy Kubert and Scott Williams and easy to read text draw the reader into the story. The artistry renders Batman from the perspective of many former Batman illustrators. One section shows the creation of a few pages from the rough layout through pencil renderings. Perfect for the art student who wants to draw Batman and Gotham City. The stories of Poison Ivy, Cat Woman and The Riddler flesh out the intricate personalities that Batman encounters. Whether a new fan of Batman or a lifelong fan of the series, this book will be a must purchase for all due to the excellent art work - some almost like oil paintings - that engage the reader to look deeper into the artwork to find hidden insights. Mention of classics such as Moby Dick, Shakespeare and even "Goodnight Moon" abound. The suspense of each section will carry the reader deep into the story line. A must purchase for Batman aficionados of any age. LMcN Superheroes
Rejected tales of the Failed, Dumped, and Cancelled.
Friedman, John ed. Rejected tales of the Failed, Dumped, and Cancelled.
Villard Books/Random 2009 249p 14.00 978-0-3455-0096-0 hs/adult
An entertaining collection of essays by writers or performers that either received rejection notices or stories of how that author had been rejected at the outset of their career.
Anyone who has suffered rejection will be reassured and entertained by the stories in this book. Each one tells about a painful story, in a humorous manner. In, "A Little Bad" Meredith Hoffa tells how life was good in the sixth grade ... that is until she got a bad haircut and the boys at a party told her they didn't think she was pretty anymore. Her solution was to focus on growing her hair. As if she could make it happen. Meredith is a former journalist and is now performing comedy in L.A..
Several of the stories are more than memorable. Peter Hyman's, "You are the Most Obnoxious Person Alive." describes an article written for New York Magazine. A month after the publication of this self-described, "lightweight, modestly funny ... story with a mix of facts and frivolity he received an E-mail describing him as the most obnoxious person alive. Hyman responded by preparing a PowerPoint addressing each of the letter writer's key points.
The variety of rejection is wide in scope and should provide a balm for those who's feeling are tender. TS
Villard Books/Random 2009 249p 14.00 978-0-3455-0096-0 hs/adult
An entertaining collection of essays by writers or performers that either received rejection notices or stories of how that author had been rejected at the outset of their career.
Anyone who has suffered rejection will be reassured and entertained by the stories in this book. Each one tells about a painful story, in a humorous manner. In, "A Little Bad" Meredith Hoffa tells how life was good in the sixth grade ... that is until she got a bad haircut and the boys at a party told her they didn't think she was pretty anymore. Her solution was to focus on growing her hair. As if she could make it happen. Meredith is a former journalist and is now performing comedy in L.A..
Several of the stories are more than memorable. Peter Hyman's, "You are the Most Obnoxious Person Alive." describes an article written for New York Magazine. A month after the publication of this self-described, "lightweight, modestly funny ... story with a mix of facts and frivolity he received an E-mail describing him as the most obnoxious person alive. Hyman responded by preparing a PowerPoint addressing each of the letter writer's key points.
The variety of rejection is wide in scope and should provide a balm for those who's feeling are tender. TS
Kilobyte Couture:Geek chic Jewelry To Make from Easy-To-Find Computer Components.
Forks, Brittany. Kilobyte Couture:Geek chic Jewelry To Make from Easy-To-Find Computer Components.
Watson-Guptill (see Random) 2009 128p 18.95 978-0-8230=9902-3 ms/hs
Clear instructions are given for making over 25 jewelry projects from earrings to an I.D. lanyard and cell phone charms out of new electronic components. Tools, techniques, jewelry findings, and the electronic parts are explained and illustrated with photographs and drawings. An index is provided While working in the Electrical and Computer Engineering building in college, Brittany Forks came across a box of old resistors and capacitors. She bought a few tools from a craft store and started making jewelry with the brightly colored computer parts. She now sells her jewelry on her own professional web site. This book gives instructions so you can make this geek chic jewelry yourself in an hour or two. A bright yellow safety note cautions the reader to use new or unused vintage parts as used components have been soldered and contain lead. Part numbers for Radio Shack or Allied are provided for all the resistors, capacitors and diodes used, so the reader will know what to look for to duplicate the items illustrated. Tools, techniques and components are explained and illustrated with photographs and drawings. Clear instructions are given and each jewelry project from earrings to an I.D. lanyard and cell phone charms is shown in a color photograph on a model. The skin tones on the beautiful smiling models vary from pale to dark reflecting the differences in the population in our urban school. Kudos to the author for not only giving suggestions for customizing the jewelry but for also encouraging young women to be smart and creative and bold about letting their intelligence and creativity show and pursuing their own interests. MT
Watson-Guptill (see Random) 2009 128p 18.95 978-0-8230=9902-3 ms/hs
Clear instructions are given for making over 25 jewelry projects from earrings to an I.D. lanyard and cell phone charms out of new electronic components. Tools, techniques, jewelry findings, and the electronic parts are explained and illustrated with photographs and drawings. An index is provided While working in the Electrical and Computer Engineering building in college, Brittany Forks came across a box of old resistors and capacitors. She bought a few tools from a craft store and started making jewelry with the brightly colored computer parts. She now sells her jewelry on her own professional web site. This book gives instructions so you can make this geek chic jewelry yourself in an hour or two. A bright yellow safety note cautions the reader to use new or unused vintage parts as used components have been soldered and contain lead. Part numbers for Radio Shack or Allied are provided for all the resistors, capacitors and diodes used, so the reader will know what to look for to duplicate the items illustrated. Tools, techniques and components are explained and illustrated with photographs and drawings. Clear instructions are given and each jewelry project from earrings to an I.D. lanyard and cell phone charms is shown in a color photograph on a model. The skin tones on the beautiful smiling models vary from pale to dark reflecting the differences in the population in our urban school. Kudos to the author for not only giving suggestions for customizing the jewelry but for also encouraging young women to be smart and creative and bold about letting their intelligence and creativity show and pursuing their own interests. MT
Perfect Chemistry.
Elkeles, Simone. Perfect Chemistry.
Walker & Co 2009 360p 9.99 9780802798220 hs
Alex Fuentes is a gang member. Brittany Ellis is a blonde cheerleader from a wealthy family. Two teenagers from different worlds are about to collide and crossover boundaries into an unknown destiny of love and discovery. What transpires is a perfect chemistry that will have everyone questioning their values, feelings and reevaluating of their lives. A must read! Brittany appears to be the perfect golden girl head cheerleader, blonde wind blown hair, blue eyes, good grades and dating the captain of the football team. What no one knows is that Brittany leads a secret life full of family problems and is dealing with the care of a beloved sister that suffers from cerebral palsy.
Alejandro "Alex" fuentes is a gang member, owns a motorcycle, and acts as if he is the man to be feared on campus. The truth; Alex fears for his two younger brothers and is hoping to be able to keep them from joining the gang. He is going to make sure they have a future even if it means he will have to sacrifice himself.
Then comes the day when school starts and in chemistry class the perfect girl has to sit next to the "mean" gang member. Mrs. Peterson the chemistry teacher is a teacher to be reckoned with and what she says goes. The project should have been simple but life is not simple and love is fickle. When Brittany and Alex sit next to each other and must interact with each other sparks always fly. But are these sparks the beginning of something else? The crossover is not easy and leaving the gang is not like getting out of a club. The choices these two teens face is full of questions, uncertainties, strange friendships, violence and even death.
Teens will love this book!!! MD
Walker & Co 2009 360p 9.99 9780802798220 hs
Alex Fuentes is a gang member. Brittany Ellis is a blonde cheerleader from a wealthy family. Two teenagers from different worlds are about to collide and crossover boundaries into an unknown destiny of love and discovery. What transpires is a perfect chemistry that will have everyone questioning their values, feelings and reevaluating of their lives. A must read! Brittany appears to be the perfect golden girl head cheerleader, blonde wind blown hair, blue eyes, good grades and dating the captain of the football team. What no one knows is that Brittany leads a secret life full of family problems and is dealing with the care of a beloved sister that suffers from cerebral palsy.
Alejandro "Alex" fuentes is a gang member, owns a motorcycle, and acts as if he is the man to be feared on campus. The truth; Alex fears for his two younger brothers and is hoping to be able to keep them from joining the gang. He is going to make sure they have a future even if it means he will have to sacrifice himself.
Then comes the day when school starts and in chemistry class the perfect girl has to sit next to the "mean" gang member. Mrs. Peterson the chemistry teacher is a teacher to be reckoned with and what she says goes. The project should have been simple but life is not simple and love is fickle. When Brittany and Alex sit next to each other and must interact with each other sparks always fly. But are these sparks the beginning of something else? The crossover is not easy and leaving the gang is not like getting out of a club. The choices these two teens face is full of questions, uncertainties, strange friendships, violence and even death.
Teens will love this book!!! MD
Crows & Cards.
Deseve, Peter. Crows & Cards.
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 344p 16.00
978-0-618-88395-0 ms/jr
In 1849, Zeb's parents ship him off to St. Louis to apprentice with a tanner. Life presents many obstacles for Zeb. He ends up being apprenticed to a gambler and befriended by an Indian and slave.
The well written and exciting story provides the reader with a good understanding of life on the Mississippi during the expansion of the West. It also shows how young folks just starting out in the world need guidance because they find it hard to make correct choices. Zeb found himself in a situation where he felt cheating was not right although his mentor was smooth talking when he explained the benefits of relieving men of their wealth.
It is a story where Zeb learns that doing the right thing is the right thing to do. LM
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 344p 16.00
978-0-618-88395-0 ms/jr
In 1849, Zeb's parents ship him off to St. Louis to apprentice with a tanner. Life presents many obstacles for Zeb. He ends up being apprenticed to a gambler and befriended by an Indian and slave.
The well written and exciting story provides the reader with a good understanding of life on the Mississippi during the expansion of the West. It also shows how young folks just starting out in the world need guidance because they find it hard to make correct choices. Zeb found himself in a situation where he felt cheating was not right although his mentor was smooth talking when he explained the benefits of relieving men of their wealth.
It is a story where Zeb learns that doing the right thing is the right thing to do. LM
Impact.
Dekker, James C. Impact.
Orca 2009 94 16.95 978-1-55143-997-6 ms/hs
What starts as a study of violence against a teenager ends with a surprise climactic moment when Jordan reveals his role in his brother's death? The family suffers the effects of this senseless murder. One wonders how much more it will suffer if the truth ever comes out.
In this short study of jealousy, pain of loss, a slow court system and culpability, James Dekker unravels a powerful plot in which the details of Mark's murder are told by his brother. Four boys brutally beat up Mark after his work shift one night. Their actions reflect the jealousy of one teen, Tony, who convinces three friends to go along with him as he seeks revenge because Mark is dating his former girlfriend, Shannon. When Mark's family learns that a neighbor boy, Kyle, is also involved, they are devastated. Each chapter is introduced by Mark and Jordan's dad as he writes the victim impact statement he will read in court before the sentencing. By the end, we know the anguish of loss. We also know the role of each teen in the murder. When Kyle is sentenced to time paid for his role in luring Mark to a dark parking lot on that fateful night, the family is crushed! Imagine our surprise when Jordan's role in the murder is revealed! As one finds out, Jordan was jealous of his brother for capturing the heart of the girl that he had hoped to take out, the very same, Shannon! Jordan told Kyle where his brother would be that night, implicating himself in the murder of his own brother! Kyle exchanged his testimony for freedom, but covered for Jordan. The author ends with a Cain-Abel story of brother turning on brother, but in this case, the truth never comes out. Jordan must live with his guilt forever.
The book ends with a list of Orca Soundings' books and a preview of books soon to be published. MS
Orca 2009 94 16.95 978-1-55143-997-6 ms/hs
What starts as a study of violence against a teenager ends with a surprise climactic moment when Jordan reveals his role in his brother's death? The family suffers the effects of this senseless murder. One wonders how much more it will suffer if the truth ever comes out.
In this short study of jealousy, pain of loss, a slow court system and culpability, James Dekker unravels a powerful plot in which the details of Mark's murder are told by his brother. Four boys brutally beat up Mark after his work shift one night. Their actions reflect the jealousy of one teen, Tony, who convinces three friends to go along with him as he seeks revenge because Mark is dating his former girlfriend, Shannon. When Mark's family learns that a neighbor boy, Kyle, is also involved, they are devastated. Each chapter is introduced by Mark and Jordan's dad as he writes the victim impact statement he will read in court before the sentencing. By the end, we know the anguish of loss. We also know the role of each teen in the murder. When Kyle is sentenced to time paid for his role in luring Mark to a dark parking lot on that fateful night, the family is crushed! Imagine our surprise when Jordan's role in the murder is revealed! As one finds out, Jordan was jealous of his brother for capturing the heart of the girl that he had hoped to take out, the very same, Shannon! Jordan told Kyle where his brother would be that night, implicating himself in the murder of his own brother! Kyle exchanged his testimony for freedom, but covered for Jordan. The author ends with a Cain-Abel story of brother turning on brother, but in this case, the truth never comes out. Jordan must live with his guilt forever.
The book ends with a list of Orca Soundings' books and a preview of books soon to be published. MS
Lifting the Sky.
d'Arge, Mackie. Lifting the Sky.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 310p 16.99
978-1-59990-186-2 ms/jr
Blue ( a twelve year old) moves around the ranches in the Northwest with her ranch-hand mother. It is a story where a young girl learns to adapt and make friends quickly.
Blue is a young twelve-year old has to move frequently because her mother constantly changes her jobs with different ranches. In the story, they finally settle down in a remote ranch adjoining an Indian reservation. Blue is a resourceful person and learns to help out with the ranch chores, and makes friends with the ranch hands, and the young Indian boy who lives on the next farm. In addition, Blue learns that she has some mystical ability with animals that she puts to good use.
Mackie d'Arge has written a good read that will appeal to young readers. It deals with single parent families and the anxiety produced when two parents can't communicate. The story line also deals with the everyday living side of ranch life. It also illustrates how humans and animals can develop a mutual communication that will benefit both parties.
It is a good read that middle school and upper elementary school readers will enjoy. LM
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 310p 16.99
978-1-59990-186-2 ms/jr
Blue ( a twelve year old) moves around the ranches in the Northwest with her ranch-hand mother. It is a story where a young girl learns to adapt and make friends quickly.
Blue is a young twelve-year old has to move frequently because her mother constantly changes her jobs with different ranches. In the story, they finally settle down in a remote ranch adjoining an Indian reservation. Blue is a resourceful person and learns to help out with the ranch chores, and makes friends with the ranch hands, and the young Indian boy who lives on the next farm. In addition, Blue learns that she has some mystical ability with animals that she puts to good use.
Mackie d'Arge has written a good read that will appeal to young readers. It deals with single parent families and the anxiety produced when two parents can't communicate. The story line also deals with the everyday living side of ranch life. It also illustrates how humans and animals can develop a mutual communication that will benefit both parties.
It is a good read that middle school and upper elementary school readers will enjoy. LM
Hello Goodbye.
Chenoweth, Emily. Hello Goodbye.
Random House/Knopf/Anchor/Three Rivers 2009 272p 25.00
978-1-4000-6517-2 hs/adult
Vacationing at an exclusive New Hampshire resort gives friends and family an opportunity to say their goodbyes to Helen, who has been diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer.
A beautifully written and compelling novel of love and loss, the story begins with Helen collapsing in the kitchen after her morning run. Only her husband, Elliott, has been told by the doctors that she has only nine months to live. Keeping the secret from her and teenage Abby, Elliott plans a vacation at an exclusive resort to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary. While the story revolves around Helen, with third person narratives, Elliot and Abby, as well as their friends, deal with her decline.
Elliott is beautifully portrayed as the solicitous husband, who drinks to deal with his impending grief. Abby grows from a self-absorbed teen to grieving but competent young woman. The story glows with love and loss, and all the characters are believably portrayed.
A mild sexual encounter, drug, and alcohol use make this a novel for older teens, and the subject matter seems more appropriate for adult readers. PN
Random House/Knopf/Anchor/Three Rivers 2009 272p 25.00
978-1-4000-6517-2 hs/adult
Vacationing at an exclusive New Hampshire resort gives friends and family an opportunity to say their goodbyes to Helen, who has been diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer.
A beautifully written and compelling novel of love and loss, the story begins with Helen collapsing in the kitchen after her morning run. Only her husband, Elliott, has been told by the doctors that she has only nine months to live. Keeping the secret from her and teenage Abby, Elliott plans a vacation at an exclusive resort to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary. While the story revolves around Helen, with third person narratives, Elliot and Abby, as well as their friends, deal with her decline.
Elliott is beautifully portrayed as the solicitous husband, who drinks to deal with his impending grief. Abby grows from a self-absorbed teen to grieving but competent young woman. The story glows with love and loss, and all the characters are believably portrayed.
A mild sexual encounter, drug, and alcohol use make this a novel for older teens, and the subject matter seems more appropriate for adult readers. PN
Wild Things.
Carmichael, Clay. Wild Things.
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2009 240p 18.95
978-1-59078-627-7 elm/ms
Stubborn, self-reliant, eleven-year-old Zoe, recently orphaned, moves to the country to live with her prickly half-uncle, a famous doctor, and sculptor, and together they learn about trust and the strength of family. Clay Carmichael has hit the mark in this novel about an orphaned eleven year-old girl who is too precocious, too independent, and too tough for her own good. Zoe Royster needed to develop these personality traits as a defense mechanism to protect her feelings from her negligent mother; consequently, she trusts no one but herself. Her father was never a presence in her life and when her mother dies, Zoe is claimed by an uncle she didn't know she had. Her uncle is Dr. Henry Royce, who left a promising medical career to pursue an even more successful career as a metal sculptor. The title refers to many wild things besides Zoe: the feral cat that contributes to the story by providing background information and foreshadowing, the sculptures that Henry creates, the albino deer and his companion. From the first page Zoe commands the attention of the readers, who want to know more about her unconventional past. She is a multidimensional character who surprises and enchants. Carmichael has taken care to provide Zoe with equally well rounded characters. Zoe's narrative provides the structure of the story, with perfect pacing and plot development. The dialogue is a joy, particularly the first few chapters of conversation between Zoe and Henry, where the reader begins to wonder how this relationship between the two of them will turn out. It turns out just fine, despite the sadness, and the tragedies that they encounter. Readers can leave Zoe knowing that she finds the love that she deserves. RZ
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2009 240p 18.95
978-1-59078-627-7 elm/ms
Stubborn, self-reliant, eleven-year-old Zoe, recently orphaned, moves to the country to live with her prickly half-uncle, a famous doctor, and sculptor, and together they learn about trust and the strength of family. Clay Carmichael has hit the mark in this novel about an orphaned eleven year-old girl who is too precocious, too independent, and too tough for her own good. Zoe Royster needed to develop these personality traits as a defense mechanism to protect her feelings from her negligent mother; consequently, she trusts no one but herself. Her father was never a presence in her life and when her mother dies, Zoe is claimed by an uncle she didn't know she had. Her uncle is Dr. Henry Royce, who left a promising medical career to pursue an even more successful career as a metal sculptor. The title refers to many wild things besides Zoe: the feral cat that contributes to the story by providing background information and foreshadowing, the sculptures that Henry creates, the albino deer and his companion. From the first page Zoe commands the attention of the readers, who want to know more about her unconventional past. She is a multidimensional character who surprises and enchants. Carmichael has taken care to provide Zoe with equally well rounded characters. Zoe's narrative provides the structure of the story, with perfect pacing and plot development. The dialogue is a joy, particularly the first few chapters of conversation between Zoe and Henry, where the reader begins to wonder how this relationship between the two of them will turn out. It turns out just fine, despite the sadness, and the tragedies that they encounter. Readers can leave Zoe knowing that she finds the love that she deserves. RZ
Bradley, Alan. The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie.
Delacorte see Random 2009 373p 23.00 978-0-385-34230-8 hs/adult
11-year-old Flavia deLuce uses her passion for chemistry and knowledge of poisons to catch a murderer and clear her father's name. Winner of the Debut Dagger Award from Canada's Crime Writers' Association, this delightful and irreverent mystery features a precocious 11-year-old sleuth. Set in the period following World War II, Flavia is the youngest of three sisters. She has a passion for chemistry, inherited from her adventurous late mother, and a special interest in poisons. When a dead bird with a stamp impaled on its beak, and later a dead man, shows up in her garden, Flavia sets out to solve this mystery, and clear her father's name.
This delightful novel will probably appeal more to adults than teens, as Flavia employs an extraordinary vocabulary, as well as exceptional deductive skills. However, there is nothing in this novel that will make this unsuitable for middle and high school readers. And there is much to love about this 11-year-old Sherlock Holmes, and her powers of deduction that includes researching old newspapers in her town library. A period piece that is out and out fun to read, exciting and clever, with a gripping encounter with the killer, in the library outbuilding that will leave readers breathless. Only the British setting, the literary illusions and vocabulary limit the universal appeal and keep this novel from Books of Note. PN
Delacorte see Random 2009 373p 23.00 978-0-385-34230-8 hs/adult
11-year-old Flavia deLuce uses her passion for chemistry and knowledge of poisons to catch a murderer and clear her father's name. Winner of the Debut Dagger Award from Canada's Crime Writers' Association, this delightful and irreverent mystery features a precocious 11-year-old sleuth. Set in the period following World War II, Flavia is the youngest of three sisters. She has a passion for chemistry, inherited from her adventurous late mother, and a special interest in poisons. When a dead bird with a stamp impaled on its beak, and later a dead man, shows up in her garden, Flavia sets out to solve this mystery, and clear her father's name.
This delightful novel will probably appeal more to adults than teens, as Flavia employs an extraordinary vocabulary, as well as exceptional deductive skills. However, there is nothing in this novel that will make this unsuitable for middle and high school readers. And there is much to love about this 11-year-old Sherlock Holmes, and her powers of deduction that includes researching old newspapers in her town library. A period piece that is out and out fun to read, exciting and clever, with a gripping encounter with the killer, in the library outbuilding that will leave readers breathless. Only the British setting, the literary illusions and vocabulary limit the universal appeal and keep this novel from Books of Note. PN
The Amaranth Enchantment.
Berry, Julie. The Amaranth Enchantment.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 306p 16.99 978-1-59990-334-7 ms/hs
In this unusual adaptation of a Cinderella tale, Lucinda must combat the vagaries of fate to regain her place in life. The author mixes adventure, political intrigues, a magical background, and a little romance into this very well-done book.
In this unusual adaptation of a Cinderella tale, Lucinda lost her wealthy parents in an accident when she was five and was forced to work in the jewelry shop of her uncle and his miserly wife. One day, all sorts of mysterious events occur. She is behind the showcase when a beautiful woman, Beryl, comes into the shop to have an enormous gem reset and leaves the magical gem with Lucinda. Shortly thereafter, the Crown Prince comes to buy a gift for his betrothed and, finally, a young pickpocket cajoles her into protecting him and rewards her by making off with the jewel. Upon the death of her uncle, she is thrown out into the street, picks up a most unusual and protective goat that seems to think that it is a dog, and makes her way to her old home to discover Beryl in residence. Beryl takes her under her protection and Lucinda's life brightens until evil rears its ugly head once again.
This engaging fantasy is not a simple retelling of a fairy tale but a sprightly written and exciting adventure. It offers both magical and suspenseful action in a well-paced plot and with engaging characters. The story is rich and interesting, the locations are beautifully rendered, and the characters are very three-dimensional. They come from different places in society and have different points of view but seamlessly join together to help each other. The author mixes adventure, political intrigues, a magical background, and a little romance into this very well-done book. SO
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 306p 16.99 978-1-59990-334-7 ms/hs
In this unusual adaptation of a Cinderella tale, Lucinda must combat the vagaries of fate to regain her place in life. The author mixes adventure, political intrigues, a magical background, and a little romance into this very well-done book.
In this unusual adaptation of a Cinderella tale, Lucinda lost her wealthy parents in an accident when she was five and was forced to work in the jewelry shop of her uncle and his miserly wife. One day, all sorts of mysterious events occur. She is behind the showcase when a beautiful woman, Beryl, comes into the shop to have an enormous gem reset and leaves the magical gem with Lucinda. Shortly thereafter, the Crown Prince comes to buy a gift for his betrothed and, finally, a young pickpocket cajoles her into protecting him and rewards her by making off with the jewel. Upon the death of her uncle, she is thrown out into the street, picks up a most unusual and protective goat that seems to think that it is a dog, and makes her way to her old home to discover Beryl in residence. Beryl takes her under her protection and Lucinda's life brightens until evil rears its ugly head once again.
This engaging fantasy is not a simple retelling of a fairy tale but a sprightly written and exciting adventure. It offers both magical and suspenseful action in a well-paced plot and with engaging characters. The story is rich and interesting, the locations are beautifully rendered, and the characters are very three-dimensional. They come from different places in society and have different points of view but seamlessly join together to help each other. The author mixes adventure, political intrigues, a magical background, and a little romance into this very well-done book. SO
Honest Abe Lincoln.
Adler, David. Honest Abe Lincoln.
Holiday House 2009 32p 15.95 978-0-8234-2057-5 elem
This biography shows us how to interest young readers in learning about Abe Lincoln by combining interesting stories about Lincoln's honesty and sense of humor with information about his life and career as a politician. David Adler did his homework to find interesting stories about Abe Lincoln. Children will undoubtedly enjoy the anecdotes that he found in sources such as "Abe Lincoln's Yarns and Stories." In addition to learning some biographical data about Lincoln, we also learn why he grew a beard, how he saved a pig from mud and how he walked miles to deliver mail to his neighbors. He garnered the title "Honest Abe" throughout his early years due to his unflinching desire to "make things right" such as in the example of how his cash register was wrong at the end of a hard day's work yet Lincoln walked 3 miles to return an overcharge. In another charming story, we learn that Lincoln used his top hat to store the mail. Upon arriving at the recipient's house, Lincoln popped off his hat and handed out the letters! Lincoln wasn't just another honest man. He was a storyteller as well, and Adler shared a stellar example in the chapter entitled, "A Talent for Hunting," in which he tells us about Jake, a local hunter who shot many birds at a time by pretending to be a turnip in the field. Adler combines stories like these with historical references to Lincoln's career showing us how to entice young readers to read nonfiction. The illustrations are lifelike and fun, especially the one with the pig wallowing in mud, yet serious and real, as in the illustration of the assassination at Ford Theater.
The book ends with a list of important dates, Adler's sources, and notes. The reading level is 2.7, but people of all ages will enjoy sharing the information in this book with others. MS
Holiday House 2009 32p 15.95 978-0-8234-2057-5 elem
This biography shows us how to interest young readers in learning about Abe Lincoln by combining interesting stories about Lincoln's honesty and sense of humor with information about his life and career as a politician. David Adler did his homework to find interesting stories about Abe Lincoln. Children will undoubtedly enjoy the anecdotes that he found in sources such as "Abe Lincoln's Yarns and Stories." In addition to learning some biographical data about Lincoln, we also learn why he grew a beard, how he saved a pig from mud and how he walked miles to deliver mail to his neighbors. He garnered the title "Honest Abe" throughout his early years due to his unflinching desire to "make things right" such as in the example of how his cash register was wrong at the end of a hard day's work yet Lincoln walked 3 miles to return an overcharge. In another charming story, we learn that Lincoln used his top hat to store the mail. Upon arriving at the recipient's house, Lincoln popped off his hat and handed out the letters! Lincoln wasn't just another honest man. He was a storyteller as well, and Adler shared a stellar example in the chapter entitled, "A Talent for Hunting," in which he tells us about Jake, a local hunter who shot many birds at a time by pretending to be a turnip in the field. Adler combines stories like these with historical references to Lincoln's career showing us how to entice young readers to read nonfiction. The illustrations are lifelike and fun, especially the one with the pig wallowing in mud, yet serious and real, as in the illustration of the assassination at Ford Theater.
The book ends with a list of important dates, Adler's sources, and notes. The reading level is 2.7, but people of all ages will enjoy sharing the information in this book with others. MS
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)