TriState YA Review Committee at the........ Pa State Library Conference 2011

Come and join us for a presentation of our Books of Note for 2010/11.
Members will present the highlights of books that they have read throughout the year.
It is a great way to find new books for your school collection.

Place: Hershey Convention Center
Date: April 29th
Time: 9AM
Room: Magnolia A/B

Genre listing for Animal stories, Conflict-fiction, and Fairytales

Animal stories
Andrekson, Judy Gunner: Hurricane Horse ms/jr
DeLaCroix, Alice The Best Horse Ever elem
Jansson, Tove Comet in Moominland elem
Katz, Jon Rose in a Storm ms/hs
Lazar, Carole Lucy Unstrung ms/jr
Marshall, Shelley Molly The Great Tells The Truth elem
Rodriguez, Beatrice The Chicken Thief elem
Tesdell, Diana Secker Dog Stories ms/hs
Wallace, Carol The Pumpkin Mystery elem

Conflict
Auch, MJ Guitar Boy ms/hs
Aw, Tash Map of the Invisible World hs/adult
Cadnum, Michael Flash hs
Choyce, Lesley Reaction hs
Corriveau, Art How I Nicky Flynn Finally Get a Life and A Dog ms
Davies, Stephen Hacking Timbuktu ms/hs
Doman, Kate (adapted by) Camp ms/jr
Doman, Kate (adapted by) River ms/jr
Edge, Harry Spray: You Can Run But You Can’t Hide ms/hs
Finn, Daniel She Thief jr/sr
Harvey, Sarah N. Plastic (Orca Soundings) secondary
Hautman, Pete Blank Confession ms/hs
Hills, Lia The Beginner’s Guide to Living hs
Ignatov, Amy The Popularity Papers ms/hs
James, Rebecca Beautiful Malice hs
Jansson, Tove Finn Family Moomintroll elem
Jones, Traci L. Finding My Place ms/hs
Lang, Diane & Michael Buchanan Fat Boy Chronicles ms/hs
Lynch, Chris Angry Young Man hs
Malley, Gemma The Returners hs
McClintock, Norah Masked secondary
Meyerhoff, Jenny Queen of Secrets hs
Mitchell, Todd The Secret to Lying hs
Petrucha, Stefa Split hs
Petrucha, Stefan Split hs
Phillips, Jayne Anne Lark & Termite hs/adult
Pogue, David Abby Carnelia’s One & Only Magical Power ms/jr
Potter, Ellen The Kneebone Boy ms/jr
Price, Charlie The Interrogation of Gabriel James hs
Schwartz, Ellen Avalanche Dance hs
Shiga, Jason Meanwhile all ages
van Tol, Alex Knifepoint ms/hs
Watson, Renee What Momma Left Me ms
Whitehead, Colson Sag Harbor hs/adult

Fairytale
Baker, E.D. The Wide-Awake Princess ms
Bracken, Beth Cenicienta (Cinderella) elm/ms
George, Jessica Day Princess of Glass ms
Janisch, Heinz and A. Blau Fantastic Adventures of Baron Munchausen elem
Lairamore, Dawn Ivy’s Ever After ms
Lowry, Lois The Birthday Ball elm/ms
Napoli, Donna Jo The Wager ms/hs
Tomlinson, Heather Toads and Diamonds elem

Genre listing for Historical-fiction, Graphic novels, and Fantasy

Fantasy
Adornetto, Alexandra Halo jr/sr
Allen, Sarah Addison The Girl Who Chased the Moon hs/adult
Arato, Rona Mrs. Kaputnik’s Pool Hall and Matzo Ball Emporium elm/ms
Beaty, Andrea Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies elm/ms
Bennett, Holly Shapeshifter ms/hs
Black, Chuck Lady Carliss and the Waters of Moorue
Bowditch, Eden Unger The Atomic Weight of Secrets ms/hs
Brooks, Terry Bearers of the Black Staff (Legends of Shannara) hs/adult
Byers, R.L. Captive Flame: Brotherhood of the Griffon, Volume 1 hs/adult
Dahl, Michael & Scott Nickel The Green Queen of Mean
Davis, Heather The Clearing ms/hs
DeStefano, Lauren Wither (Chemical Garden Trilogy) hs/adult
Duane, Diane A Wizard of Mars (Young Wizards) ms/hs
Eggers, Dave The Wild Things ms/hs
Fantaskey, Beth Jekel Loves Hyde hs
Fox, Daniel Jade Man’s Skin (Book II) adult
Gee, Maurice Gool (Salt Trilogy v2) hs
Gibson, Marley Ghost Huntress: The Counseling ms/hs
Halpern, Jake & Peter Kujawinski World’s End (Bk2 Dormia) ms/jr
Hamilton, Kersten Tyger Tyger (Bk 1 Goblin Wars) hs
Haworth, Danette The Summer of Moonlight Secrets ms/jr.
Jansson, Tove Moominpappa’s Memoirs elem
Jansson, Tove Moominsummer Madness elem
Johansen, K.V. The Shadow Road (Warlocks of Talverdine:Bk4) ms/hs
Jones, Carrie Captivate ms/hs
Jones, Jaida and Bennett, Danielle Dragon Soul adult
Kessler, Jackie Morse Hunger hs/adult
Kramer, Stacy & Valerie Thomas Karma Bites ms
Madigan, L.K. The Mermaid’s Mirror hs
Malzieu, Mathias The Boy with the Cuckoo-Clock Heart adult
Marchetta, Melina Finnikin of the Rock hs/adult
Martel, Yann Beatrice and Virgil hs/adult
McCaffrey, Todd Dragongirl (Dragonriders of Pern) ms/hs
Moore, Clement The Night Before Christmas elem
Morris, Gerald The Legend of the King (Squire’s Tales) ms/jr
Mull, Brandon A World without Heroes (Beyonders) ms/hs
Nichols, Lee Deception (Haunting Emma series) ms/hs
Overstreet, Jeffrey Raven’s Ladder hs/adult
Paul, Donita K. Dragons of the Valley hs/adult
Perez, Marlene Dead Is Just A Rumor ms/hs
Pike, Christopher The Secret of KA secondary
Redick, Robert V.S. The Ruling Sea hs/adult
Rushdie, Salman Luka and the Fire of Life ms
Rutkoski, Marie The Celestial Globe hs
Sensel, Joni The Timekeeper’s Moon ms/hs
Stephens, Sarah Hines Rumble in the Forest elem
Stewart, Joel Dexter Bexley and the Big Blue Beastie elem
Sullivan, Laura L. Under the Green Hill ms/hs
Van Eekhout, Greg Kid vs. Squid elm/ms
Wagner, Hilary Nightshade City ms/jr
Wardell, Bradley Elemental (Destiny’s Embers) hs/adult
Dolamore, Jaclyn Magic Under Glass hs

Graphic novel
Aristophane (translated by Matt Madden The Zabime Sisters ms/hs
Austen, Jane & Seth Grahame-Smith Pride and Prejudice and Zombies hs
Besel. Jennifer M. Unusual History of Comic Books
Bronte, Charlotte Jane Eyre all ages
Carey,M. & P.Gross Unwritten: Tommy Taylor & The Bogus Identity hs/adult
Carroll, Lewis Hunting of the Snark; An Agony in Eight Fits hs/adult
Carroll, Lewis (adapted by Lewis Helfand) Alice in Wonderland elm/ms
Ciencin Point-lank Paintball
Clencin, Scott Avalanche Freestyle elem
Collins, Terry Getting to the Bottom of Global Warming elm/ms
Dahl, Michael The Vampire Chapter elem
David, Peter Ben 10 Alien Force: Doom Dimension elem
Deutsch, Barry Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword ms
Deutsch, Barry Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword elm/ms
Dickens, Charles adapted by Brigit Viney Great Expectations ms/hs
Everheart, Chris Recon Academy
Flight Comics Flight Volume Seven ms/hs
Gardner, Robert Electricity and Magnetism Science Fair Projects, Revised and Expanded Using Scientific Method ms/hs
Glidden, Sarah How to Understand Israel in 60 Days or Less hs
Hale, Shannon & Nathan Hale Calamity Jack ms
Hale, Shannon and Dean Calamity Jack all ages
Ikeda, Miyoko Fairy Navigator Runa ms/hs
Johns, Geoff and Ethan Van Sciver Flash Rebirth ms/hs
Johns, Geoff,&I. Reis, Oclair Albert, Joe Prado Blackest Night hs/adult
Kawamura, Mika Panic x Panic (English translation) ms/hs
Kieth, Sam Arkham Asylum Madness hs/adult
Koontz, Dean Odd Is On Our Side ms/hs
Lockpez, Inverna Cuba: My Revolution hs/adult
Manning, Matthew/ Ricardo Osnaya Ali Baba and the forty Thieves elm/ms
Momoyuki, Kotori Pink Innocent (English translation) ms/hs
Morrison, G., F. Quitely P. Tan Batman & Robin (Deluxe Ed.) hs/adult
Neufeld, Josh A.D. New Orleans After the Deluge hs/adult
Rosinsky, Natalie M. Graphic Content! The Culture of Comic Book secondary
Sfar, Joann The Little Prince (adapted) ms
Shakespeare, William adapted by Brigit Viney Henry V ms/hs
Shelley, Mary adapted by Brigit Viney Frankenstein (graphic novel) ms/hs
Tulien, Sean Pecos Bill: Colossal Cowboy elem
Verne, Jules 20,000 Legends Under the Sea (Spanish) elm/ms
White, Tracy How I Made It to Eighteen ms/hs

Historical Fiction
Baratz-Logsted, Lauren The Education of Bet hs
Barrett, Tracy King of Ithaka ms/hs
Benjamin, Melanie Alice, I Have been ms/hs
Chapman, Fern Schumer Is it Night or Day? ms/hs
Chibbaro, Julie Deadly: How do you catch an invisible killer? jr/sr
Coventry, Susan The Queen’s Daughter hs
Cushman, Karen Alchemy and Meggy Swann ms/hs
deBlasi, Marlena Amadine hs/adult
Dogar, Sharon Annexed ms/hs
Dunlap, Susanne Anastasia’s Secret hs
Dunlap, Susanne Anatasia’s Secret hs
Flores-Galbis, Enrique 90 Miles To Havana ms/hs
Fortier, Anne Juliet hs/adult
Gleitzman, Morris Once ms/hs
Harvell, Richard The Bells adult
Hoffman, Mary City of Ships (Stravaganza) ms/hs
Holt, Kimberly Willis The Water Seeker ms/jr
Lasky, Kathryn Chasing Orion hs
Lieberman, Leanne The Book of Trees secondary
McMullan, Margaret Sources of Light hs
Meyer, C. The Bad Queen: Rules and Instructions for Marie Antoinette jr/sr
Meyer, L.A. Wake of Lorelei Lee (Bloody Jack Adventure) ms/jr
Pryor, Bonnie Simon’s Escape: A Story of the Holocaust elm/ms
Pryor, Bonnie The Iron Dragon: The Courageous Story of Lee Chin elem
Rinaldi, Ann The Family Greene elm/ms
Rinaldi, Ann The Last Full Measure ms
Sedgwick, Marcus Revolver ms/hs
Shaw, Tucker Anxious Hearts jr/sr
Sheinkin, Steve The Notorious Benedict Arnold ms/hs
Thompson, Paul B. The Devil’s Door: A Salem Witchcraft Story ms/jr
Whelan, Gloria Small Acts of Amazing Courage ms/hs
Wilson, John Written In Blood ms/jr

Horror
MacHale, D.J. Morpheus Road: The Light ms/hs
McBride, Lish Hold Me Closer, Necromancer hs
Myracle, Lauren Bliss hs/adult
Smith, Andrew The Marbury Lens hs

Genre listing for Humor, Misc, Multicultural-fiction, Mystery/Detectives

Humor
McMullan, Kate School! Adventures at the Harvey N. Trouble Elem. School elem

Misc.
Davis, Jim Garfield: Potbelly of Gold ms/hs
Ellsworth, Loretta In a Heartbeat ms/hs
Tesdell, Diana Secker editor Stories of the Sea ms/hs

Multicultural
Ali, Nujood with Delphine Minoui I am Nujood, Age 10 and Divorced ms/hs
Badoe, Adwoa Between Sisters ms/hs
Elkeles, Simone Rules of Attraction hs
Ingold, Jeanette Paper Daughter ms/jr
Lynch, Janet Nichols Addicted to Her jr/sr
Molnar, Haya Leah Under A Red Sky ms/hs
Pawlak, M., D. Lourie,& R. Hershon When We Were Countries : Poems and Stories by Outstanding High School Writers secondary
Preus, Margi Heart of a Samurai jr/sr

Mystery/Detective
Amato, Mary Edgar Allen’s Official Crime Scene Notebook elem
Banscherus, J. Stage Fright (Pathway Books: Klooz) elm/ms
Bradley, Alan The Weed That Strings the Hangman’s Bag hs/adult
Brezenoff, Steve The Burglar who bit the Big Apple elem
Brown, Rita Mae A Nose For Justice jr./sr
Fagerholm, Monika The American Girl hs/adult
Freeman, Martha The Case of the Rock’n Roll Dog elem
Grant, Helen The Vanishing of Katherine Linden hs/adult
LaFevers, R.L. Theodosia and the eyes of Horos elm/ms
Michelhill, Barbara Gruesome Ghosts(Pathway:Damian Drooth Supersleuth) elem
Peacock, Shane The Secret Fiend (Boy Sherlock 4th Case) ms/jr
Smith, Roland I,Q. Book Two: The White House elm/ms
Soup, Cuthbert, Dr. A Whole Nother Story elem

Genre Listing for Realistic fiction and Supernatural-fiction

Realistic Fiction
Michael Jackson ms
Adler, David A Little At A Time elem
Angleberger,Tom The Strange Case of Origami Yoda elm/ms
Appelt, Kathi Keeper (galley) ms
Bacskai, Andrew Fighting The Legend ms
Beaty, Andrea Secrets of the Cicada Summer elm/ms
Bell, Cathleen Davitt Little Blog on the Prairie ms/hs
Bell, William Los Pandemonium hs
Birdeye, Tom Storm Mountain ms/hs
Bishop, George Letter To My Daughter hs
Brody, Jessica The Karma Club hs
Burgess, Melvin Nicholas Dane hs
Chamerlain, Adrian Rock Star hs
Clarke, Judith The Winds of Heaven hs
Cox, Judy Carmen Learns English elem
Cox, Judy Nora and Texas Terror elem
Deuker, Carl Payback Time ms/hs
Doman, Kate (adapted by) Crash jr/sr
Doman, Mary Kate (adapted by) Dive ms/hs
Dooley, Sarah Livvie Owen Lived Here ms
Dowell, Frances O’Roark Ten Miles Past Normal jr/sr
Dutton, Sandra Mary Mae and the Gospel Truth elm/ms
Eagland, Jane WIldthorn hs
Ellis, Deboah No Safe Place ms/hs
Ellsworth, Loretta In a Heart Beat ms/jr
Elton, Charles Mr. Toppit adult
Farrar, Josh Rules to Rock By ms/jr
Freitas, Donna This Gorgeous Game hs
Gallagher, Diana G. Monica and the Bratty Stepsister elm/ms
Goldberg, Myla The False Friend adult
Gordon, Amy Twenty Gold Falcons elm/ms
Gosselink, John The Defense of Thaddeus A. Ledbetter ms
Grant, Vicki Comeback hs
Greenwald, Lisa Sweet Treats & Secret Crushes elm/ms
Halpin, Brendan Shutout ms/hs
Harvey, Sarah N. Death Benefits hs
Harvey, Sarah N. El Sophon (Bull’s Eye) ms/hs
Hawkins, Aaron The Year Money Grew on Trees elm/ms
Hengel, Katherine No Easy Race hs
Hengel, Katherine Taking Control ms/hs
Hengel, Katherine Wings ms/hs
Ignatow, Amy The Popularity Papers elm/ms
Keegan, Nicola Swimming hs/adult
Realistic Fiction
Kelly, Bernadette Courage to Ride (Ridgevew Riding Club) elm/ms
Kelly, Tara Harmonic Feedback hs
Kennedy, Kim Misty Gordon and the Mystery of Ghost Pirates ms/hs
Kinney, Jeff The Ugly Truth (Diary of a Wimpy Kid) elm/ms
Klise, Kate Grounded elm/ms
Koertge, Ron Shakespeare Makes the Playoff ms/jr
Koss, Amy Goldman The Not-So-Great Depression ms/hs
Kramon, Justin Finny adult
Kuskowski, Alex Line Up elm/ms
Landon, Kristen The Limit ms/hs
Maddox, Jake Quarterback Comeback elem
Marlow, L.Y. Color Me Butterfly hs/adult
Marshall, Shelley Molly the Great’s Messy Bed elem
Marshall, Shelley Super Ben Writes a Letter elem
Marshall, Shelley Super Ben’s Brave Bike Ride elem
McDonald, Abby Boys, Bears, and a Serious Pair of Hiking Boots hs
Melville, Herman (adapted by Lance Stahlberg) Moby Dick elm/ms
Myracle, Lauren Violet in Bloom (A Flower Power Book) elm/ms
Nicholson, William Rich and Mad hs
Nielson, Susin Dear George Clooney, Please Marry My Mom ms/hs
Nolan, Han Crazy ms/hs
O’Connor, Barbara The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester elem
Omololu, C. J. Dirty Little Secrets jr/sr
Omololu, C.J. Dirty Little Secrets ms/hs
Orlev, Uri The Song of the Whales ms
Pfeffer, Susan Beth This World We Live In hs
Phillips, Dee Goal Right Now elm/ms
Pierson, D. C. The Boy Who Couldn’t Sleep and Never Had To hs/adult
Plum-Ucci, Carol Fire Will Fall ms/hs
Pulver, Robin Thank You Miss Doover elem
Ransome, James E. Gunner, Football Hero elm/ms
Rech, Lindsay Faith It Started with A Dare hs
Reed, Lynn Rowe Color Chaos elem
Rich, Simon Elliot Allagash ms/hs
Rigby, Robert Goal: Glory Days ms/hs
Ryan, Amy Kathleen Zen & Xander Undone hs
Sales, Leila Mostly Good Girls hs
Salter, Sydney Swoon At Your Own Rik ms/hs
Schraff, Ann The Fairest ms/hs
Schraff, Anne Like a Broken Doll ms/hs
Schraff, Anne No Fear ms/hs
Schraff, Anne The Fairest ms/hs
Schraff, Anne The Stranger ms/hs
Schraff, Anne Time of Courage ms/hs
Schraff, Anne To Catch A Dream (Urban Underground) secondary
Schraff, Anne WIldflower ms/hs
Schwartz, Ellen Cellular ms/hs
Senzai, N.H. Shooting Kabul elm/ms
Shulman, Mark Scrawl elem
Silberberg, Alan Milo: Sticky Notes and Brain Freeze elm/ms
Stern, A.J. Frankly Frannie elem
Stevens, Eric Flu Fighter (Finn Reeder series) elm/ms
Stutz, Eli Pickle Impossible elm/ms
Sullivan, J. Courtney Commencement college
Tashjian, Janet My Life As a Book elm/ms
Towell, Ann Grease Town elm/ms
Tullson, Diane Sea Change ms/hs
Wesselhoeft, Conrad Adios, Nirvana jr/sr
Williams, Maiya The Fizzy Whiz Kid elm/ms
Wilson, Jacqueline Kiss hs
Winslow, Marjorie Mud Pies and Other Recipes elem
Withers, Pam Respira ms/hs
Wyshynski, Sue Poser jr/sr
Zusak, Markus La Ladrona De libros (in Spanish) jr/sr

Science fiction
Bodeen, S.A. The Gardener ms/hs
Bradbury, Ray Farenheit 451 ( Spanish language version) jr/sr
Briggs, Andy Hero.com: Virus Attack hs
Briggs, Andy Villain.net: Dark Hunter hs
Buckley, Michael Nerds: M is for Mama (BK 2) ms/jr
Collins, Terry Escape From Pompeii ms
Cronin, Justin The Passage hs/adult
Diterlizzi, Tony The Search for WondLa elm/ms
Foster, Alan Dean The Human Blend ms/hs
Harland, Richard Worldshaker ms/hs
Hauge, Lesley NomansLand hs
Jinks, Catherine Living Hell ms/hs
Jinks, Catherine The Genius Wars ms/hs
McCaffrey, Anne & E.A. Scarborough Catalyst ms/hs
Moon, Elizabeth Oath of Fealty hs/adult
Murray, Kirsty Vulture’s Wake ms/hs
O’Brien, Caragh M. Birth Marked hs
Yu, Charles How to Live Safely in a Science Fictional Universe hs/adult

Spanish language
Bell, William La Tormenta (The Storm) ms/jr

Supernatural
Alcott, Louisa May & Porter Grand Little women and Werewolves secondary
Buffie, Margaret Winter Shadows ms/hs
Clare, Casssandra Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices Bk 1) jr/sr
Dunkle, Clare B. The House of Dead Maids
Feasey, Steve Wereling ms/hs
Harvey, Alyxandra Hearts at Stake (The Drake Chronicles) hs
Jenkins, Mark Collins Vampire Forensics hs/adult
Lancett, Peter Killer in the Dark hs
Lancett, Peter The Dark Machine hs
Malley, Gemma The Returners ms/hs
Marx, Mandy R. Great Vampire Legends (Vampires(Capstone)) elm/ms
McMann, Lisa Cryer’s Cross secondary
Milford, Kate The Boneshaker ms/hs
Nadol, Jen The Mark hs
Noel, Alyson Radiance ms/hs
Pauley, Kimberly Still Sucks To Be Me jr/sr
Phillips, Dee Dare: (Right Now Series) ms
Quimby, Laura The Carnival of Lost Souls ms/hs
Rowen, Michelle Demon Princess: Reign Check ms/hs
Scrimger, Richard Me & Death ms/jr
Smith-Ready, Jeri Shade hs
Springer, Nancy Possessing Jessie ms/jr

Rinaldi, Ann. The Last Full Measure.

Rinaldi, Ann. The Last Full Measure.
Harcourt Brace/Houghton Mifflin, 218p, 2010, 17.00
978-0-547-38980-6, ms VG-BN


Vividly portrays life in the town of Gettysburg during the battle. With their family, Tacy and her brother David live through the dangers, fears, and aftermath of the battle.
With her father a doctor and two brothers away fighting for the Union army, fourteen-year-old Tacy lives through the days of the Battle of Gettysburg in town. Her older brother David, is in charge. He cannot fight due to a crippled leg. Tacy is headstrong and a real handful for David. During the battle the family helps hide some free Negroes, attend to wounded, and meet Confederates both respectful and not. After the fighting Tacy and David continue their father’s work of burying bodies and recording the names. At this time David gives his life for his principles by following the law and refusing to let a body be dug back up.
This book gives a glimpse at what it was like for the townspeople and how ordinary citizens may be called on to do extraordinary feats.
The characters are well drawn and it is obvious that both the locale and action during the battle are well researched. This will be a useful addition to the collection when students study the Civil War. Perfect for eighth graders.Theal, Joan

Steinmetz, Karen. The Mourning Wars.

Steinmetz, Karen. The Mourning Wars.
Roaring Brook Press see macmillan children's pub 2010 230p 18.99 978-1-59643-290-1 E-BN


Eunice Williams was a Puritan girl in the Deerfield, Massachusetts area of New England. One night Indians pillaged the town and took hostages. This book is Eunice’s story is about her survival in an A’onote tribe.
This is a very well written and researched story about a young girl who is taken hostage by an Indian. During the raid she watched her mother be ignored by her father as she struggled to survive the forced marches. This detail was a major factor later when her father came to find her.
Eunice was lucky enough to be adopted by an Indian family who had lost their daughter. She was adopted into the tribe and became their daughter. In reading this novel, readers will gain great deal of understanding about the Indian way of life during this period in American history. The author shows that the life Eunice led with the Indians was peaceful and full of love as a family unit. However, on the other hand it showed that the father ( a preacher) was a very self-centered individual. Eunice became aware that the only reason he wanted her to return to civilization was to enhance his standing with the church.
As years past, Eunice did open communication with her brothers and sisters who had be ransomed from the Indians.
This is a book to be read and enjoyed. It would fit very nicely with colonial American history units. McNeil, Linda

Wilson, John. Written In Blood.

Wilson, John Written In Blood
Orca 2010 157p 12.95
978-1-55469-270-5 ms/jr Southwest- fiction VG-BN


In the 1870’s a young boy leaves British Columbia to search for his father. In the course of his travels he meets many unique characters and learns that solving his past opens the door to new beginnings.
Jim Doolan is a young sixteen-year-old boy who leaves his settled existence in British Columbia with his mother to go hunting for his missing father. His journey starts with a schooner ride to San Diego where he buys a pony and tack before he sets off across the desert to Tucson. In the desert he meets a deceitful old timer (and companion) who robs him of his gun and pony leaving him vulnerable. Never the less Jim continues on to Tucson only to discover that one of the men who robbed him was in the saloon. He sets up an ambush to retrieve his money but ends up killing the robber. He also meets and old Indian who befriends him and a young Indian on the warpath whom he befriends. And so goes his life until he finally traces his father to a rancho in Mexico only to find that he is dead.
In the end Jim realizes that his story is part of all of the stories and events shared with him by people along his travels. So he decides to retrace his path and fill in the details with his friend.
The story is very well written and will appeal to young readers, especially boys. It is full of tension and adventure for the reader to embrace the cruelties of the era when the Southwest was growing. It is a great followup to his Death On The River that he wrote about the Civil War era. Historical McNeil, Linda

O’Keefe, Sherry. From China to America: The Story of Amy Tan

O’Keefe, Sherry From China to America: The Story of Amy Tan
Morgan Reynolds 2010 128p 28.95
978-1-59935-138-4 ms/hs Tan, Amy E-BN World Writers (Morgan)


An intimate glimpse of Amy Tan’s life, the events that influenced her writing, her writing style, and the process of writing. Compelling reading that can be enjoyed by a casual reader, or used by a researcher studying feminism or doing literary analysis. Gr. 7+ This intimate portrayal of the life of Amy Tan is very readable and offers insight into Tan as a person as well as a writer. Quotations start each chapter and those quotes alone provide insight into Amy Tan as a writer. This book talks about her writing process, the structure of her short stories and novels, the events that influenced her as a writer as well as offering criticism of her works. Excellent for those students who are doing reports on feminism, multicultural America, or literary analysis. This book contains information about her most famous books as well as the recent novel set in Burma, her editing of a California magazine and the opera that she collaborated on based upon The Bonesetter’s Daughter. An excellent choice for any middle or high school library. McNicol,Lois

Nardo, Dan. European Colonization of Africa

Nardo, Dan European Colonization of Africa
Morgan Reynolds 2010 112p 28.95
978-1-59935-142-1 ms/hs Africa - Colonization E-BN

Concisely presents the history of Africa focusing on the European colonization of Africa with emphasis on the slave trade and early European explorers. Very readable. Colorful illustrations, chapter notes, time line, index and further reading. Grades 6-12. Nardo covers the early history of Africa from BC times and Muslim influence through the nationalism in the mid 1900s. The focus is on Europeans who traveled to Africa to plunder the natural resources and enslave the native populations. The first half of the book talks extensively about the slave trade that had been in existence during the early Muslim occupancy and expanded as Europeans needed slaves to work in the Caribbean. Early explorers and those Europeans who settled in Africa are shown as masters of the indigenous populations. As more Europeans arrived, clashes broke out between the Dutch, Portuguese and central European factions. By the 1950’s nationalism had taken hold and ousted European governments in favor of local rule. Colorful illustrations, chapter notes, time line, index and further reading provide quick study links for students. Text boxes highlight important events and people with primary source quotations flowing smoothly into the narrative text. The only addition that would have proved helpful would have been a legible map of Africa with locations mentioned in the text. Strongly recommended for grades 6-12 as a first source of political information on the history of Africa as a continent. McNicol,Lois

Hart, Christopher Shoujo: Manga fro Beginners

Hart, Christopher Shoujo: Manga for Beginners
Watson-Guptill (see Random) 2010 192p 21.99
978-0-8230-3329-4 ms/hs E-BN


This title presents fundamental art techniques for the Shoujo type of manga graphics that targets mainly female characters. It is a vibrantly colorful book that will teach the beginner how to draw these characters. Includes a table of contents and an index. This title presents fundamental art techniques for drawing the Shoujo type of manga graphic art. This type of artwork that is the basis of many manga books features mainly female characters and is marketed to females in the ten to eighteen year old bracket. Many of the stories written in this manga sub genre involve romance. This is a vibrantly colorful book that will teach the beginner how to draw these characters. Some of the skills the book focuses on are coloring, character development, and putting it all together. The contents contain chapters on such subjects as the face, female bodies in motion, Shoujo girls, and Shoujo boys. This is a book for beginning artists who want to learn how to draw this type of manga style characters and for those who want to sharpen their skills a bit. The subject is quite popular and from the time the book arrived in the school library, I have not been able to keep it on the shelf for more than a few hours. Although the Shoujo manga centers on female characters, both male and female students are interested in this title. This title would be an excellent selection for middle school and high school libraries; perhaps some elementary schools could use it as well. Recommended for Tristate Books of Note because of the quality of the book and especially because of the popularity of the topic. Weinraub, Tina

Paul, Donita K. Dragons of the Valley.

Paul, Donita K. Dragons of the Valley.
Waterbrook 2010 370p 13.99
978-1-4000-7340-5 hs/adult E-BN


Tipper Schope and her artist friend, Bealomondore, try to prevent the enemy from seizing three important statues by hiding them in the Valley of the Dragon, while an evil creature makes its presence known in Chiril.

Tipper Schope and her artist friend, Bealomondore, try to prevent the invading enemy from seizing three important and powerful statues by hiding them in the Valley of the Dragon. Meanwhile an evil creature, the Grawl, makes its presence known in Chiril, stealthily killing the leaders of each region. It is only part human and hunts more like an animal leaving no trace. Between the attacking enemy army and the work of the Grawl, the citizens of Chiril are thoroughly demoralized and ready to surrender.
Meanwhile, Bealomondore is learning swordsmanship with the help of an enchanted sword. The sword acts almost of its own will and the wielder must learn to complement the magic.
Once the three statues have reached the Valley, Fenwoth the magician creates a grotto worthy in size and splendor to hold the three statues in their proper orientation. This restores both balance and hope in the population of Chiril.
In a final battle on many fronts, the advancing enemy army is routed, the Grawl defeated, and peace restored.
Fast paced, excellent read for lovers of fantasy. Rated by the publisher as adult, it could definitely be enjoyed by high school students and mature middle school students. Fantasy Theal, Joan

Ellsworth, Loretta. In a Heart Beat

Ellsworth, Loretta In a Heart Beat
Walker & Co 2010 216p 16.99
978-0-8027-2068-9 ms/jr Organ donation VG-BN


Told in their separate voices, Eagan, who has died in a figure-skating accident, becomes a heart donor for Amelia, who then begins taking on some aspects of Eagan's personality. Ellsworth, in her author’s note, states that In a Heart Beat started out as therapy, written after the deaths of her mother and a nephew, who was an organ donor. The result of her effort is a heartfelt, honest to goodness, reach for the tissues because you can’t stop crying kind of a book. But rather than focus on the pedestrian “organ donor saves a life” plot, Ellsworth adds a twist with the theory of cellular memory. Cellular memory theorizes that the brain is not the only repository of memory and that other organs may also hold memories. Sixteen year old Eagan, a competitive ice skater, dies in a freak accident. As an organ donor, her heart goes to fourteen- year-old Amelia who has been living with congestive heart failure. Ellsworth brings us straight into the emotional turmoil of Eagan’s unexpected death and Amelia’s reluctance to live through someone else’s death. Eagan and Amelia’s stories are told in alternating chapters, as each deals with the circumstances of death and life. Eagan is athletic, full of life, with a controlling stage mother. Amelia is artistic, sheltered, with a mother who is devoted to her care and well-being. The two couldn’t be more different. Eagan tells her story in flashback, uncovering family secrets and trying to make sense of her complicated relationship with her mother. Amelia describes her recovery from the transplant operation, pleased with her new heart but believes that the heart has changed her in unexpected and unknown ways. She senses Eagan and begins to acquire some of her characteristics and memories. With the help of a friend, she is able to identify Eagan as her donor and feels compelled to contact Eagan’s parents, not knowing that her visit will reconcile Eagan and her mother. Eagan’s memory in her heart, the heart that now is Amelia’s, is the key to the reconciliation. As Eagan notes about Amelia, “We each saved each other.” For her part, Amelia realizes that Eagan wants her to learn to accept her gift of life. Characterization is strong and well-developed and readers relate to both girls on an emotional level. The theory of cellular memory is intriguing and propels the plot. Ellsworth does not play on saccharine emotions but leads readers to consider the possibilities of the power of memory, the importance of organ donation and the unseen angels that watch over us. Misc. Zajko, Rosanne

Phillips, Jayne Anne. Lark & Termite

Phillips, Jayne Anne Lark & Termite
Vintage see Random 2009 282p 14.95
978-0-375-70193-1 hs/adult VG-BN


Alternating between two story lines detailing a six-day period in July nine years apart, “Lark and Termite,” juxtaposes small town life for teenaged Lark and her physically/mentally challenged brother Termite against their father’s last tour of duty in Korea. This is a reissue of a title that was a National Book Award Finalist. Jayne Anne Phillips has been compared to William Faulkner, Virginia Woolf, and Toni Morrison.

Overlapping plots and shifting narrative may be daunting to all but avid readers. Two story lines parallel a six-day period in July. One takes place in 1950, when Lark’s father serves a tour of duty in Korea. The other takes place nine years later, during which Lark details the struggle her life is in a small West Virginia town.

Alternating between the two story lines, Lark knows little of either parent and struggles to raise her mentally and physically disabled blind brother, Termite. Social Services is constantly threatening to take Termite away. This situation is juxtaposed with the last hours of Robert Leavitt, stationed in Korea in 1950.

The characters are richly, intimately detailed. Of particular note are the observations made by Termite, who is mute and Lark, who is entering adulthood. Corporal Robert Leavitt describes the initial chaos that introduced the Korean War (a war many readers know little of beyond watching episodes of M*A*S*H*). The complicated relationship between Aunt Nonie and Lola (the mother) is also explored.
Conflict Welliver, Hilary

Katz, Jon. Rose in a Storm

Katz, Jon Rose in a Storm
Villard Books/Random 2010 217p 24.00
978-0-345-50265-0 ms/hs E-BN


Katz, who wrote so eloquently about Bedlam Farm and its inhabitants, especially his beloved dogs, has now written a novel about the struggles of a small farm as seen through the perspective of a sheep herding dog. Jon Katz, who wrote so eloquently about Bedlam Farm and its inhabitants, and especially his beloved dogs, has now written a novel about a farm that is very similar to Bedlam Farm. Sam, the owner of the farm has just lost his wife to cancer and with his spirits down, he continues to run the small farm. The biggest asset to the farm is Rose, a Border Collie who could run the farm on her own and who is almost called to do that after a huge snow storm has hit the farm and she and Sam must fight to save the sheep, cows,chickens, and goats who have become the farm’s family, from the blizzard. When Sam is injured it is up to Rose to rescue him from deadly conditions and continue to save the farm. The incredible part is that this story, with a plot line that will keep the reader turning pages through the thrilling moments and to the happy ending, is told through the perspective of Rose, the incredible and resourceful Border Collie. The background of the plot also examines and offers insights into man’s place in nature, the relationships between animals, and the spirit of the bonds among them all. This title will be of interest to Katz fans who have followed his exploits before and after Bedlam Farm and readers who enjoy a good dog book. This book is recommended for Tristate Books of Note for 2011 and will be an excellent addition to upper middle school and high school libraries. Animal stories Weinraub, Tina

Flight Comics. Flight Volume Seven

Flight Comics Flight Volume Seven
Villard Books/Random 2010 282p 27.00
978-0-345-51737-1 ms/hs Graphic Novels - Short stories E-BN


Flight, Volume seven is an excellent collection of open ended graphic short stories. Each one is better than the last. Students will enjoy all the stories. An excellent graphic novel. It has 16 short stories. It is an imaginative book full of "what ifs..." for students and adults who enjoy reading the graphic novels. The writing is poetic storytelling. Precise and to the point but open ended promising possibilities of alternative endings. Some are well grounded and funny. Still others focus on special focus words (that need to be learned) without marring the whole presentation.

One piece that stands out is "Sustain This song" A poetic view of a soldier coming home from war but the soldiers are from across the world and across the ages! Not many words but a powerful visual story all done in lime green color with a touch of red and dark grey/green.

If you have never tried a graphic novel this book might be the best selection as it contains stories that are fantasy, myth like, science fiction and cartoons, some with moral stories and others without.

This book could be consider as a classroom sets to have students study the techniques and style of art and writing of the graphic novel.

Graphic novel Diaz, Magna

Towell, Ann. Grease Town

Towell, Ann Grease Town
Tundra Books 2010 232p 19.99
978-0-88776-983-2 elm/ms prejudice appears in Canada in 1860s in oil town VG


Titus Sullivan grows up too quickly when he stows away to Oil Springs, Ontario, an oil town where whites and blacks work side by side in the oil business. Prejudice does not triumph in this tale of the strength of family and tolerance in the 1860s. Not only did the United States fight the Civil War for slaves’ freedom, but also Canada, in its support of tolerance. In the 1850s and 60s our runaway slaves went north to find jobs, and in Oil Springs, Ontario, were forced to work for lower wages, exacerbating already turbulent economic times. As historical fiction, Grease Town is valid and even predictive of what happens when the hateful minority takes charge. It shows the world that prejudice appears everywhere, under a variety of circumstances. In this case, Titus Sullivan’s friendship with Moses, the young son of former slaves, is jeopardized when the members of the town burn down Negro shanties. After running through the night to warn Moses about the impending attack, Titus witnesses the entire incident, and helpless to prevent the conflagration, he shuts down both figuratively and literally. He cannot talk. Will he talk at the trial? The reader doesn’t know until the end of the book when Titus’s Aunt Sadie comes to town and harangues Uncle Amos, with whom Titus resides, to such an extent that Titus must speak out on his behalf! “Shut up!” he shouts at his aunt. Ann Towell adds humor to a dramatic resolution, and brings the book to a close when she has Titus speaking at the trial of the despicable men who had jeopardized the tentative peace of the oil town. This book has good character description and plot, and although children might prefer more action, there is a universal theme that is appealing and thought-provoking. Children learn a bit about oil drilling as well as about the rough characters that the oil business attracted to oil towns over a century ago. Realistic Fiction Squaresky, Martha

Towell, Ann. Grease Town

Towell, Ann Grease Town
Tundra Books 2010 232p 19.99
978-0-88776-983-2 elm/ms prejudice appears in Canada in 1860s in oil town VG


Titus Sullivan grows up too quickly when he stows away to Oil Springs, Ontario, an oil town where whites and blacks work side by side in the oil business. Prejudice does not triumph in this tale of the strength of family and tolerance in the 1860s. Not only did the United States fight the Civil War for slaves’ freedom, but also Canada, in its support of tolerance. In the 1850s and 60s our runaway slaves went north to find jobs, and in Oil Springs, Ontario, were forced to work for lower wages, exacerbating already turbulent economic times. As historical fiction, Grease Town is valid and even predictive of what happens when the hateful minority takes charge. It shows the world that prejudice appears everywhere, under a variety of circumstances. In this case, Titus Sullivan’s friendship with Moses, the young son of former slaves, is jeopardized when the members of the town burn down Negro shanties. After running through the night to warn Moses about the impending attack, Titus witnesses the entire incident, and helpless to prevent the conflagration, he shuts down both figuratively and literally. He cannot talk. Will he talk at the trial? The reader doesn’t know until the end of the book when Titus’s Aunt Sadie comes to town and harangues Uncle Amos, with whom Titus resides, to such an extent that Titus must speak out on his behalf! “Shut up!” he shouts at his aunt. Ann Towell adds humor to a dramatic resolution, and brings the book to a close when she has Titus speaking at the trial of the despicable men who had jeopardized the tentative peace of the oil town. This book has good character description and plot, and although children might prefer more action, there is a universal theme that is appealing and thought-provoking. Children learn a bit about oil drilling as well as about the rough characters that the oil business attracted to oil towns over a century ago. Realistic Fiction Squaresky, Martha

Buffie, Margaret Winter Shadows

Buffie, Margaret Winter Shadows
Tundra Books 2010 336p 19.95
978-0-88776-968-9 ms/hs Girls survive difficult times & choices in different eras E-BN


In 1850, Beatrice must decide her future and in 2010, Cass must decide hers as well. They meet spiritually when Cass finds Beatrice’s broach and diary, begin to communicate, and help each other discover their true destinies. Margaret Buffie makes supernatural seem like realistic fiction in Winter Shadows. In the mid 1850s, Beatrice suffers the loss of her mother, watches her father remarry the impossibly insecure and frugal Ivy, and tries to find her way in the new household. In the present day, Cass suffers the same loss, watches her father remarry Jean, and does not try at all to find her way in the new household that includes a step sister who is an annoying brat. Instead, she wants to live with Aunt Blair, her mother’s twin, who offers her true motherly affection. When Cass finds a broche in the fireplace of her old house, her visions begin, and she sees Beatrice at various occasions, initially disconcerting, and later, accepting. Beatrice finds herself seeing glimpses of Cass at uncanny times as well, and the parallel stories develop until they become one story with a theme of following one’s heart and making the right choices for happiness. Beatrice must decide between marrying the Reverend Dalhousie who she does not love or recognizing that she truly loves Duncan Kilgour, a man who brings out the best in her and who promises her true affection. During one of their many communications via Beatrice’s diary, Cass prompts Beatrice to make the right choice for herself. Beatrice communicates the same to Cass but in another way. She reveals to her at the end of the novel that they are related, thus providing a legacy that seems just right as Cass decides to live with Aunt Blair but to accept her new stepmother’s role in her life. Buffie is an excellent storyteller, a poet who knows how to put language together that is both descriptive and compelling. Her choices of a Canadian setting and the Cree heritage enhance the story. Finally, Buffie never reveals to the reader how the visions occurred; she leaves that to the imagination of the reader, and the reader will not be disappointed.
Note! There is one spelling error on p. 253. “Most were retired Comany men.” > “Company men.”
Supernatural Squaresky, Martha

Verne, Jules. 20,000 Legends Under the Sea (Spanish)

Verne, Jules 20,000 Legends Under the Sea (Spanish)
Stone Arch see Capstone 2011 72p 26.65
978-1-4342-2324-1 elm/ms Graphic Novels - Jules Verne - Sea Adventures VG-BNes Graphic Resolve en Espanol (Stone Arch)


The graphic novel of the classic story of 20,000 leagues under the sea the Spanish version.
This classic Jules Verne story has been made into a graphic novel. In full color and translated into Spanish this version is an adaptation of the story created for elementary and middle school students. The blue color predominates the pictures giving the impression that you are under water where in fact most of the story takes place. The red color accentuates the men's uniform complimented by the colors of gold, yellow, dull red, green-gray and delineated and contrasted by black.
The language translation is very good and easy to follow. This promises to be a book kids will enjoy. Great book for beginners Spanish classes

Includes: about the author, the translator, glossary About the submarine Questions for debate, writing prompts, about the art work and other books in the series Graphic novel Diaz(1), Magna

Stevens, Eric Flu Fighter

Stevens, Eric Flu Fighter (Finn Reeder series)
Stone Arch see Capstone 2010 75p 25.32
978-1-4342-2450-7 elm/ms Finn Reeder combats the swine flu at school VG-BNes


Finn Reeder survives 5 weeks of the swine flu to live another day. He chronicles his experience in a journal which is required by the first substitute teacher in a line of many as one after another, everyone is hit with H1N1. Relevant book full of humor! Full of zany good humor, this book is sure to entertain readers of all ages supporting what writers and readers have known for ages, that adults can be entertained by literature written for children! Centered in Ms. Westing’s English class, sorry soul Finn Reeder survives the swine flu pandemic in miserable style, by writing a journal! When he begins his first entry with “This is stupid,” the reader knows that Finn will be real. And real he is! Suffering from substitute teacher after substitute teacher as the swine flu spreads, Finn finds himself facing the school bully, fighting against his father’s paranoia about getting the flu and enduring long days in school as his friends drop like flies. This book is laugh out loud funny, with art work designs accompanying each journal entry, much like a child would doodle in a side margin of a diary. The characters include: Gas Mask Sub, who talks, but no one understands him, Coach Pangs, the football coach who becomes the sub for gym class and whose only lesson plan is to play dodge ball, and Dad, who prepares for looters, vandals and destruction as the world is being taken over by the flu. How does Finn win out over the school bully? He accidentally finds his Achilles Heel, the swine flu vaccination, and learns that a hit on that arm causes pain the likes of which makes the bully pale. The humor continues even after the book is done, with Coach Pang’s Guide to Solo Dodge Ball and Finn’s Tips for Staying Healthy. This book is certain to make children want to read! The plot and characters are hilarious! Realistic Fiction Squaresky, Martha

Manning, Matthew/ Ricardo Osnaya. Ali Baba and the forty Thieves

Manning, Matthew/ Ricardo Osnaya Ali Baba and the forty Thieves
Stone Arch see Capstone 2011 72p 26.65
978-1-4342-1988-6 elm/ms Fairy Tales - Arabs - Folklore - VG-BNes
Graphic Revolve: (Stone Arch)


The graphic novel of the very popular fairy tale of Ali Baba and the forty thieves. The illustrator Ricardo Osnaya has taken this very popular Fairy tale and given it new life. A new generation of children will be able to enjoy this new illustrated version in graphic novel form. Ali Baba a young poor laborer from Arabia is on his way home after searching for firewood. He finds himself in the way of the infamous forty thieves who are riding behind him. Afraid they might just run over him or kill him. Ali Baba climbs a tree and hides until they pass. To his good fortune he discover the magic behind their great rock cave full of treasures.

What happens next is exciting and frightening and requires skill to outwit the thieves. Kids will enjoy this graphic novel and ask for more like it. Beautifully done with brilliant colors. Captures the mystery and intrigue of the moment. Yellows and gold are used to give bright and translucent light to accentuate special moments and things.

Includes: Information on “Arabian Nights”, about the author, About Illustrator, Glossary, Discussion Question, Writing Prompts

Graphic novel Diaz, Magna

Smith, Roland. I,Q. Book Two: The White House

Smith, Roland I,Q. Book Two: The White House
Sleeping Bear Press(Cengage) 2010 256p 8.95
978-1-58536-456-5 elm/ms Enemy agents at the White House E-BN


A tale of mystery, suspense and espionage within the White House. Q (Quest) and Angela must solve another action packed mystery and save the President’s daughter. Second volume in the I, Q mystery series (book 1 is I, Q: Independence Hall), this novel is set in the White House. Staying at the residence of the President of the United States to perform a concert, Angela and Q are immediately embroiled in a suspenseful mystery involving the President’s son and a myriad of special agents. They know that the White House staff has been infiltrated by as yet unidentified enemy agents through support characters and Angela’s supposedly deceased mother (for her protection, the fact that she is alive and working incognito must remain secret). Q and Angela do not know whom among the staff to trust. Slowly they develop some suspects and the adventure moves very rapidly through false identifications, changes in plans and finally to the abduction of the President’s daughter. The book ends here with the obvious need for a book 3.
Well written with lots of action, intrigue and adventure, this title will captivate middle school and upper elementary school readers. Mystery/Detective Theal, Joan

Smith, Marie and Roland. S is for Smithsonian

Smith, Marie and Roland S is for Smithsonian
Sleeping Bear Press(Cengage) 2010 unp 17.95
978-1-58536-314-8 all ages Alphabets, Smithsonian Museum E-BNe


Most alphabet books are designed for the youngest of children. This remarkable one crosses many age groups. Arranged in traditional order, each letter is highlighted by a brief poem, a lovely painting, and used to explain much more interesting information than normally found. Most alphabet books are designed for the youngest of children. This remarkable one crosses many age groups. Arranged in traditional order, each letter is highlighted by a brief poem, a lovely painting, and used to explain much more interesting information than normally found. “A” is used to describe both aviatrix and Amelia Earhart and a secondary entry covers airplane. Each succeeding letter brings into focus many of the special treasures that are found in the many Smithsonian Museums from Smithson’s Castle and the Hope Diamond to Justice Thurgood Marshall and the pandas of the Washington Zoo. It ends with an excellent map of the various museums to be found on the National Mall. The alphabet is perfectly illustrated for younger readers and the information given is well suited to older one and is sure to lead them into further reading and research. Ogintz, Susan

Shakespeare, William adapted by Brigit Viney. Henry V

Shakespeare, William adapted by Brigit Viney Henry V
Sleeping Bear Press(Cengage) 2010 144p 32.45
978-1-4205-0371-5 ms/hs VG
Classic Graphic Novel Collection(Cengage)


This dark-hued graphic novel relates the story of Shakespeare’s Henry V in a manner that will be understandable to middle and high school students. This would be a very good supplement for those actually studying the play. This graphic novel relates the story of Shakespeare’s Henry V in a manner that will be understandable to middle and high school students. The dark-hued colors of the panels match the mood of the play. All of the acts and scenes, as well as the epilogue, are in this title that will make this historic play accessable to more readers. At the beginning of the book, there is a portrait gallery of characters and a short summary of the plot. At the end of the book there is a glossary, a one page biography of William Shakespeare and a one page biography of Henry V of England. . The binding seems strong and the cover is attractive and highlights the action inside the pages. For some reason, the last few pages of this glossy text are for “notes” but hopefully no one will take notes on these pages of a library book. This would be a very good supplement for those readers who are actually studying the play as it will provide a visual aspect to the reading. Recommended for middle and high school libraries where needed. Graphic novel Weinraub, Tina

Scillian, Devin. D is for Down Under: An Australia Alphabet

Scillian, Devin D is for Down Under: An Australia Alphabet
Sleeping Bear Press(Cengage) 2010 unp 17.95
978-1-58536-445-9 elem Australia- Alphabet books E-BNe


An alphabet picture book that will teach children all about Australia. In fact this book is not just for kids it is for all ages. Very enjoyable and a learning experience. Beginning with the map of Australia also know as the land down under, this book takes you on a visual and entertaining tour of Australia even as you go through the alphabet. Each page will introduce you an alphabet letter and an entertaining verse using the letter. On the side however there is some much interesting information about the country that it makes this book a special book for the child and the adult. The child can read the verse while the adult would read the information.

The information on the side panels is rich in history, customs, geography and details that I found myself learning little know facts about Australia even as I enjoy the pictures and the verses. The format and pictures are perfect for sharing with a child in a cozy chair. The illustrator does an excellent job in illustrating the book. The picture explaining how Australia was colonized is very interesting because it shows a family watching TV eating popcorn but it is the background that will catch your attention. The sofa has handcuffs, ball and chains on the fabric while in the picture behind the family is a pair of feet with the ball and chain illustrating that this country was settled by criminals. The island was used as an isolation place for criminals from England.

Australia is country with so many interesting places and things to do that it definitely will get people interested in learning more about this country.

A truly beautiful and interesting book. Diaz, Magna

Marzollo, Jean Pierre the Penguin

Marzollo, Jean Pierre the Penguin
Sleeping Bear Press(Cengage) 2010 unp 15.95
978-1--58536-485-5 elem Penguins and molting E-BNe


True story of veterinarian ingenuity to help a captive penguin without feathers. Pierre did not properly molt and did not have the feathers to keep him warm or let him swim in the cold water. Pierre, an African penguin, lived in an aquarium in California. One year his feathers started to break and fall out. This left him without sufficient insulation to stay warm on land or to stay dry in the water. He looked funny so the other penguins shunned him. One of his caregivers got the idea for a tiny wet suit. It kept Pierre warm until his next molt when new healthy feathers grew in. This is a true story.
Written in rhyming couplets and illustrated with gorgeous paintings, this story comes alive. Included at the end are the answers to questions commonly asked by students.
Written for elementary children, it will be a wonderful addition to any library. Theal, Joan

Lang, Diane & Michael Buchanan Fat Boy Chronicles

Lang, Diane & Michael Buchanan Fat Boy Chronicles
Sleeping Bear Press(Cengage) 2010 222p 9.95
978-1-58536-543-2 ms/hs -Conduct of life - High Schools E-BN


The ninth grade journal of a fat boy. Jimmy who just entered ninth grade and what should be the best year of his life turns into the most miserable and the bully of the school has it out for him. It is how Jimmy handles this horrible and difficult situation that will make a difference in his life. “Middle school stunk big time” so begins Jimmy’s journal in ninth grade in high school. His English teacher is requiring all her students to keep a journal for that year. She gave out the rules to follow and told the students that they were allowed to have entries labeled Please Don’t Read This Page.

Jimmy is a good student and loves playing the Saxophone but he is overweight and that makes him the brunt of many jokes and cruel tricks. He is a victim of bullying. Through his journal we get a glimpse of what his life was like as he struggled with his weight, the bullying, the rejection, and his relationship with the few friends he has. Although he has loving parents, his mom allows him to overeat and sometimes rewards him with food when he is down, lonely or hurt. His friends are kids who have problems of their and as they share their worries and hurt with Jimmy we also get chance to see that aside from overweight problems there are other problems that are not seen but can cause serious incidents that will forever change the kids lives. A truly inspirational book that shows both side of the bully and the one being bullied. The book takes you into the school and into the classroom where you feel like you are watching all the terrible incidents as they happen. Jimmy also shows you how teachers feel when they are the victim of vicious students out of control. You will rejoice with Jimmy when he takes control of his life and share with you his struggles to change his circumstances and to help his friends find their way too. There is always hope we just have to find it and hang onto it until it become a part of us.

Inspired by a true story this story will capture your heart and will take you into the lives of the children who suffer from the school bullies. When you close the book at the end, tears will spring into your eyes because Jimmy triumph.

Every school should have a copy of this book and I would go as far as to say every child should read this book. It may change their life for the better. Conflict Diaz, Magna

Schraff, Anne. Wildflower.

Schraff, Anne. Wildflower.
Saddleback 2011 183p 8.95
978-1-61651-009-1 ms/hs VG Urban Underground (Saddleback)

This title in the Urban Underground series follows Chelsea, the daughter of a strict father She is becoming a bit wild for his tastes as he tries to reign her in to no avail until a dangerous incident tones her down. Reminiscent of Bluford High series. This title in the Urban Underground series follows Chelsea, the daughter of a strict father. Her mother is more understanding of teen ways and her older brother Jaris watches out for her. Chelsea is in eighth grade and still attends middle school but is looking forward to attending Tubman High where Jaris and his friends go. According to her father, Chelsea is too wild, dresses too provocatively, and hangs out with immature friends. Mom is more of a pollyanna and Jaris knows the deal with teens and that’s why he’s big brotherly protective. Never the less, Chelsea manages to get herself into situations such as the drug party that Jaris luckily rescues her from. Meanwhile, Dad and Mom have their own drama going on in that Dad is unhappy in his job and wants to purchase the mechanic business and Mom is stressed over the financial woes getting a loan would bring to the family. Towards the end of the story, Chelsea and her two friends go for a car ride after school with some boys which turns into a high speed chase where they are in fear for their lives. However, all ends well, Chelsea is duly chastised and realizes the errors of her ways and Dad and Mom are happy because the loan went through and now Dad is a business owner. Jaris, the rock of the family, can finally relax (that is until Chelsea starts Tubman High!). This book is reminiscent of the Bluford High series and will be a very good, useful addition to libraries looking for high interest titles. Realistic Fiction Weinraub, Tina

Schraff, Ann. The Fairest

Schraff, Ann The Fairest
Saddleback 2011 179 8.99
978-1-61651-007-2 ms/hs VG Urban Underground (Saddleback)

One of the newer teachers at Tubman High suggests a Princess of the Fair contest in the hopes it will create school spirit. In fact, it does the opposite by creating a nasty popularity contest and pitting students against other students. One of the newer teachers at Tubman High School,Ms McDowell, suggests a Princess of the Fair contest to select the girl who most embodies the qualities of the school’s namesake. She does this in hopes it will create school spirit. However, it does the opposite by creating a nasty popularity contest that pits student against student and brings out the worst in some of the students. The various factions of teens inhabit this novel in the Urban Underground series: mean girls, bullies, nice kids, abused students, etc. All of the personalities come into play as they team up to support or to harass those vying for the position. The guys start making lists of girls, mostly unflattering and sexist. One of the students, Jasmine, goes way overboard in trying to get others to vote for her. She has been known to be a mean girl but now is trying to show that she isn’t really that way. Of course, it’s a sham and her projects to show her change go against school rules and also causes some revenge behavior in the students she has snubbed in the past. However, all ends well when the nicest, most comforting girl in the school wins because she actually does have the virtues similar to Harriet Tubman. This title in the Urban Underground series is reminiscent of the Bluford High series and the author of this book also wrote a few titles for them. This would be a very good, useful book for those middle and high school libraries looking for high interest titles for reluctant readers. Realistic Fiction Weinraub, Tina

Sheinkin, Steve. The Notorious Benedict Arnold

Sheinkin, Steve. The Notorious Benedict Arnold
Roaring Brook Press see macmillan children's pub 2010 338p 19.99 978-1-59643-486-8 ms/hs VG


Benedict Arnold’s is written about in this easy to read book that highlights his accomplishments and his most shameful event that made him a traitor to the country. The author has written and researched a very readable book about a famous villain in American history. He shows the triumphs and downfalls of Arnold. The background that is provided with the text allows the readers to better understand the social and political situations of the time period. Additional information is found in the Source notes in the back of the book.
I must admit that Benedict Arnold was not someone whom I knew a lot about before reading this book. However, the author really brought Arnold to be a believable person for the reader. It helped the reader understand why Arnold acted as he did and why the political and military implications were so drastic.
I also think it was great that you followed the path of Arnold to Quebec because your descriptions were further enhanced by your travels.
This is a great read that should be in any middle school that touches on this period in American history. Historical McNeil, Linda

Truong, Monique. Bitter in the Mouth

Truong, Monique Bitter in the Mouth
Random House/Knopf/Anchor/Three Rivers 2010 282p 25.00
978-1-4000-6908-8 hs/adult Bildungsroman E-BN


A wonderfully written, coming of age novel that beautifully exploits a friendship between two girls in the 1970s and 1980s to describe not only the times they live in, but how friendships and families create the individuals we become.
A second novel by this award winning author (Bard Fiction Price, 2003; PEN/Robert Bingham Fellowship for Writers, 2004; and New York Public Library Young Lions Fiction Award, 2004) this is a gem of a novel. Linda, the young protagonist recognizes at a very young age that she can taste words. This form of synesthesia and her methods of coping with the onslaught of “incomings” (never ending tastes assaulting her brain due to people talking) cigarettes, alcohol, and sex, as well as her relationships with her best friend Kelly and her Uncle Harper, and other individuals in her life, unfold in this narrative of her life. As one reads through the book the author reveals little tidbits about Linda and her family and friends that alter the course of Linda’s life. Secrets revealed later in her life, when family tragedy pulls her back home, finally serve to clarify for Linda who she is and why her life has followed the it’s path. Fisher, Lynn