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Eliza and Her Monsters
Eliza and Her Monsters
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Eliza Mirk is a high school student with a secret identity: she is also LadyConstellation, the creator of the amazingly famous webcomic, Monstrous Sea. During the school day, Eliza keeps her hood up and rarely ever talks at school. At night she interacts with friends online, but no one knows she is LadyConstellation. Eliza barely interacts with her younger brothers, because to her parents' chagrin, she spends hours holed up in her room with her online friends and creating new material for Monstrous Sea. Her life is turned upside down when the new kid, Wallace, walks into her homeroom. Wallace is a selective mute, a writer, and huge fan of Monstrous Sea. Eliza's time with Wallace forces her to confront her anxiety and begin to interact with people face-to face. This novel tackles the "monsters" of anxiety and introversion with care, while at the same time it celebrates the world of fanfiction, as it seamlessly transitions back and forth between Eliza's real world, her online chats, and work from Monstrous Sea (illustrations drawn by the author). Fans of Rainbow Rowell, will enjoy this book, as well as fanfiction writers and followers.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Andersen, Elizabeth
Illustrator: ,
Illustration Quality: excellent
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: fantasy,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780062290137
Price: 17.99
American Street
American Street
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Fabiola and her mother are leaving Haiti to reunite with family in Detroit. Fabiola’s mother is detained by ICE and only Fabiola is able to enter the US. Fabiola’s cousins and aunt embrace her and bring her to live at their house on the crossroads of American Street and Joy Road. Although it seems on the surface they are living the “American Dream”, Fabiola soon discovers their lives are filled with many complications. The author, like Fabiola, is a Haitian immigrant and the challenges of entering a new culture and the spirituality of the Haitian Creole culture were the most intriguing and authentic elements of the story. It seemed that this book was going to focus on Fabiola’s efforts to free her mother from detainment, but unfortunately it does not spend much time on this, instead the story rapidly tackles many other issues such as young love, urban violence, drugs, and abusive relationships without digging deeply enough into any of them. Overall, many readers will still be compelled by Fabiola’s journey and there is much to discuss about the choices she makes.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Zoboi, Ibi
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Balzar + Bray
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780062473042
Price: 17.99
How Dare The Sun Rise: Memoirs of a War Child
How Dare The Sun Rise: Memoirs of a War Child
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: August 7, 2017
Review
Sandra’s memoir is a powerful narrative of survival, strength, and courage. She begins her story the night her sister and others were massacred by rebels in a UN refugee camp. Although Sandra also had a gun to her head, she survives. The narrative then flips back to her early life in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the tensions against her people, the Banyamulenge, that forced her family to flee. The family eventually ends up in Rochester, NY as part of a UN replacement program. In addition to dealing with usual teenage issues, Sandra must work through the grief and guilt she feels about her sister’s death, as well as the trauma of a sexual assault. She must also adapt to another culture and learn English. During her junior year of high school, Sandra begins a project that helps her recover and move forward. She creates a nationally recognized photo exhibit that helps others understand the pride and strength of her people. Sandra Uwiringiyimana offers a strong female voice to the growing body of war and immigrant memoirs. Her inspirational story needs to be read far and wide.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Uwiringiyimana, Sandra
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre: biography / autobiography
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780062470140
Price: 19.99
The Go Between
The Go Between
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
How can you tell if you have real friends or if they like you because your mother is one of Mexico's biggest telenovella stars? This question has always haunted Cammi's friendships. She even has a set of rules that guide her friendships: you cannot be her friend if you ask for her mother's autograph, take a selfie with her mother, or post a picture of her house. Things change for Cammi when her mother takes a role in an American television show. Her rules no longer apply. She attends an elite private school, but because she is Mexican her classmates assume that she is a scholarship student. Cammi does not correct these assumptions. She wants to see if people like her without knowing her mother is famous and to teach them a lesson about assumptions. This novel is one of the few that tells the story of a wealthy immigrant, but some readers may find it unbelievable and disappointing that Cammi's character would not confront the stereotypes and racist assumptions. This novel is best for younger YA audiences. It is an immigrant story that wraps up neatly without thoroughly tackling the big issues it introduces.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Chambers, Veronica
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Audience: grades 7-9
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781191930941
Price: 5.99
What Girls Are Made Of
What Girls Are Made Of
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
At the young age of fourteen, Nina’s mother tells her that all love is conditional, particularly the love of a man. From this conversation Nina believes that a man’s love is determined by her beauty, her willingness to have sex, and anything else the man decides will make her worthy. Nina’s mother also mentions that her love for her daughter is conditional, but does not explain those conditions. When Nina does become sexually active, she handles it without her mother’s help, since Nina worries that her sexuality may violate her mother’s conditions of love. Nina’s soon enters into her first serious relationship with Seth. He calls all the shots and leaves Nina when she does not prove to be as fun and adventurous as he would like. After their break up, Nina must confront her pregnancy without the help of her mother. Arnold explores female sexuality and coming of age honestly. Birth control and abortion options are explicit and informative. Scenes that describe sex and masturbation are detailed and sometimes uncomfortable, but not gratuitous. This is a mature and thought-provoking book that explores important issues.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Arnold, Elana K.
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Carolrhoda Lab
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781512410242
Price: 18.99
Bull
Bull
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
This novel-in-verse is quite different than the other books about greek mythology. It is a retelling of “Theseus and the Minotaur.” Each character’s story is told in a different poetic form which is explained in more detail by the author at the back of the book. The different styles and rhymes give the story a very modern rhythm and flow. Like other retellings, readers of this story will understand the meddling of the Greek gods in human affairs, but unlike other retellings Elliot focuses more on the Minotaur and than the traditional hero, Theseus. The story is peppered with f-bombs among other swears and some language is better-suited for an older YA audience. Other passages may not sit well with young, empowered female readers. Pasiphae, the Minotaur’s mother, is labeled a whore and slut and her body is described as “worse for wear.” Some readers may wonder why an author would allow himself the power to re-imagine a tale and work so creatively with language and not avoid such sexist slurs against the female characters.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Elliott, David
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: fantasy,fiction in verse / poetry
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780544610594
Price: 1.99
MWD: Hell Is Coming Home
MWD: Hell Is Coming Home
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
This graphic novel tackles PTSD and the difficulties of returning to civilian life after combat. Liz served in Iraq as as dog handler, but when her tour ends she returns to her life in a small New Hampshire town. Liz is given an opportunity to pull her life back together by an understanding Vietnam Vet and his wife who run the animal shelter; however, she is still suffering too much to take advantage of this opportunity. She finds comfort in a dog at the shelter, but even this relationship cannot help with her drinking and flashbacks.The illustrations are all in pencil and the lack of color creates the right tone for Liz’s suffering. Luckily, there are second chances for Liz and the story does end on an uplifting note. This was a group project that took two writers, Brian David Johnson and Jan Egleson, and two illustrators, Laila Milevski and Karl Stevens, ten years to create. Although there are many young adults looking to enter the military, this book is not geared towards them. It is a mature and harsh look at sexual politics in combat and PTSD that will not be relatable for most young adults.
Overall Book Score: fair
About the Book
Author:
Johnson, Brian David
Illustrator: Milevski, Laila
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction,graphic novel
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780763657062
Price: 24.99
Ronit and Jamil
Ronit and Jamil
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
The story of Ronit & Jamil demonstrates that themes from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet are still relevant to modern-day, teen romance. In this novel-in-verse set in Israel, Ronit is the daughter of an Israeli pharmacist and Jamil is the son of an Arab doctor. Ronit’s father brings medicine to Jamil’s father, and a young love is sparked with a single glance. To sneak past their family, Ronit and Jamil furtively text each other and find ways to meet, but alas, their secret is discovered and they must escape their families to be together. Laskin begins the book with a brief history of Israel and impartial explanations of the tension between the Israelis and the Palestinians. The novel contains scattered words in Hebrew and Arabic which are defined in footnotes. At the beginning, each chapter alternates between the two lovers and readers must keep track of the language and pronoun clues to know who is speaking. This is not a flaw, but something to consider for reluctant readers. Unlike Shakespeare, this story of young love does not end in tragedy; it contains a strong theme of hope for the young lovers and the future of their country.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Laskin, Pamela L.
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: romance,fiction in verse / poetry
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780062458544
Price: 17.99
Ramona Blue
Ramona Blue
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Portland, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
When Ramona was five, Hurricane Katrina destroyed her family’s home and broke the family apart. Her mother left to start a new life, while Ramona, her father, and her sister remained in the trailer that was supposed to be a temporary home. Now a teenager, Ramona holds down two jobs while going to school. She is saving up for her future, a future which she has little time or ability to contemplate. When a friend from her past, Freddie, returns, he introduces Ramona to swimming, a sport that might make college a possibility, but Freddie also begins to stir up confusing feelings in Ramona, who thought she liked girls. Murphy does an expert job of giving voice to Ramona’s inner world; she takes the reader along on Ramona’s rollercoaster ride of adolescence in a way that instantly makes her feel like an old friend. Murphy does not finish the story with a nice, neat ending. As Ramona and Freddie get ready to leave for college, Ramona’s confusion about her sexual identity is left open which feels true to her character. Fans of Eleanor and Park will enjoy this complex, romantic read, as will fans of Murphy’s earlier novels.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Murphy, Julie
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Balzar + Bray
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: romance,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780062418357
Price: 17.99
Count All Her Bones
Count All Her Bones
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Portland, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Fans of April Henry will not be disappointed by this book. This story picks up six months after Cheyenne escaped from her kidnappers in Girl, Stolen. One of her captor’s, Griffin, helped Cheyenne escape and both teens feel a bond after surviving such circumstances. They are both planning on testifying at the upcoming trial, that is if they can both be kept safe. Cheyenne’s father and stepmother have hired a bodyguard who is teaching Cheyenne, who is blind, how to defend herself against future attacks. When Cheyenne sneaks out to meet up with Griffin, she finds herself in danger once again. Like Henry’s other novels, the plot moves quickly and the suspense will not disappoint. Henry includes interesting Acknowledgments at the end to discuss the research she did for this book, such as self-defense for the blind. If April Henry is popular in your library then you want to purchase this sequel to Girl, Stolen.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Henry, April
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Christy Ottaviano Books
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: mystery,romance
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781627795913
Price: 17.99
Grit
Grit
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Portland, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Set in fictional Sasanoa, Maine, Darcy Prentiss is learning the hard lessons of life in a small rural town. The plot intricately juggles many threads: the disappearance of Darcy’s friend, Rhiannon; family tensions; and the unfair stigma applied to sexually active teenage girls. Darcy, her sister, Mags, and cousin, Nell, must all handle the secrets that come bubbling to the surface by the end of the summer. Darcy’s determination in the face of adversity will stay with readers; her voice is authentic and her conflicts will be familiar to many young women. The plot unfolds slowly, French has not written a thriller, so much as thoughtful, haunting realistic fiction. French is a Maine author who sets her story against the backdrop of rural Maine blueberry fields, quarry parties, and local fairs. This book explores the complications of modern girlhood in a sophisticated style, put this in the hands of readers who have read Laurie Halse Anderson, A.S. King, and Sara Zarr.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
French, Gillian
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Harper Teen
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: mystery,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780062642554
Price: 17.99
This Book's Maine Connection: Maine author,Maine setting
The Other F-Word
The Other F-Word
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Milo and Hollis met once when they were in second grade. They are bonded together by a father they have never met: sperm donor #9677. Although, Hollis does not like to think about being a “lab experiment”, Milo thinks about it all the time. He reconnects with Hollis seven years later to let her know that he has been on “The Donor Progeny Project” and he has found out that they have siblings. Together, Hollis and Milo connect with their siblings and after much research and discussion, they all decide to make contact with their sperm donor who had indicated that he was open to future contact. The rest of the story is full of discovery for Milo and Hollis, the dual narrators. The other three siblings are very tangential to the story, but this is not a serious flaw. Authentic dialogue, a well-paced plot, and genuine emotion without melodrama will appeal to many readers. This book should be part of every collection serving YA. Diverse family situations become more common every day and teens will appreciate seeing all types of families represented in their literature.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Friend, Natasha
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780374302344
Price: 17.99
Matthew Espinosa: More Than Me
Matthew Espinosa: More Than Me
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Matthew Espinosa had millions of followers on social media by the age of nineteen. He knew from a young age that he wanted to be creative. He was always making his family laugh, making videos for class, and talking too much in class. When he discovers YouTube, he has a bigger audience and becomes “instafamous”. Since then, Espinosa has made movies but mostly seems to be a star of social media. He shares his experiences with celebrity and answers personal questions in the #AskMatt sections of the book.This autobiography is filled with large pictures and bold graphics targeted to appeal to Generation Z. Although Espinosa promises to share an entirely different side of himself in this book, most of the information is very superficial and seems polished for public relations purposes. This is an additional purchase. Buy only if your library patrons are followers of Espinosa.
Overall Book Score: fair
About the Book
Author:
Espinosa, Matthew
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Harper
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre: biography / autobiography
Audience: grades 7-9
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780062490803
Price: 19.99
Eagle Strike: The Graphic Novel
Eagle Strike: The Graphic Novel
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Eagle Strike is the fourth book in the popular Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz (story adapted by Anthony Johnston for the graphic novel).The graphic novel format stays true to the original novels and brings the action and suspense to life with colorful, action-packed graphics. Alex Rider, a young MI6 agent, is on vacation when he is thrust back into danger after a failed assassination attempt. He is busy trying to save the world from an evil super villain while trying to find out the truth about his father’s death. The two illustrators, Kanako and Yuzuru, two sisters from Japan, worked together to create the artwork. Most pages are multiple panels of varying size. There is a manga-like quality to the illustrations, especially in the fight scenes. This graphic novel series will be popular with readers of the novels and conversely, it might be a good stepping stone to the novels for reluctant readers.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Horowitz, Anthony
Illustrator: Damerum, Kanako
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,graphic novel
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780763692552
Price: 14.99
Scorpia: The Graphic Novel
Scorpia: The Graphic Novel
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Eagle Strike is the fifth book in the popular Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz (story adapted by Anthony Johnston for the graphic novel).The graphic novel format stays true to the original novels and brings the action and suspense to life with colorful, action-packed graphics.Alex Rider, a young MI6 agent, is on a school trip to Italy for nefarious purposes. He is looking to uncover the secret of Scorpia. The plot he uncovers is as evil as any James Bond story. Alex also uncovers the truth about his father, but the cliffhanger ending will create more questions and leave readers desperate to read the next in the series. The illustrations were created by Emma Vieceli and colored by Kate Brown. Most pages are multiple panels of varying size. There is a manga-like quality to the illustrations, especially in the fight scenes. This graphic novel series will be popular with readers of the novels and conversely, it might be a good stepping stone to the novels for reluctant readers.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Horowitz, Anthony
Illustrator: Vieceli, Emma
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,graphic novel
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780763692575
Price: 14.99
The Door to January
The Door to January
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Once again, Maine writer, Gillian French, sets her story in a small, fictional Maine town. It is summer and Natalie has returned to Bernier to work at her Aunt’s diner. Natalie has also returned to confront her nightmares. Ever since she and her family moved away from Bernier, there is an old house that has been reaching out to her in her dreams. Natalie and her cousin, Teddy, explore the old house and eventually learn its’ dark history. They decide that they must confront the wrongs of the past which involves Natalie putting her life in danger. At the same time, Natalie must also confront her peers in Bernier and see if she can learn to trust any of them who played a traumatic role in her past. This paranormal, time-travel story, weaves suspense with the issues of small-town life. As in her first book, French skillfully unfolds the layers of her twisted plot. Readers will keep turning the page to find the surprises that await at the end.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
French, Gillian
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Islandport Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: fantasy,mystery,horror
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781944762100
Price: 16.95
Scorpia: The Graphic Novel
Scorpia: The Graphic Novel
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Eagle Strike is the fifth book in the popular Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz (story adapted by Anthony Johnston for the graphic novel).The graphic novel format stays true to the original novels and brings the action and suspense to life with colorful, action-packed graphics.Alex Rider, a young MI6 agent, is on a school trip to Italy for nefarious purposes. He is looking to uncover the secret of Scorpia. The plot he uncovers is as evil as any James Bond story. Alex also uncovers the truth about his father, but the cliffhanger ending will create more questions and leave readers desperate to read the next in the series. The illustrations were created by Emma Vieceli and colored by Kate Brown. Most pages are multiple panels of varying size. There is a manga-like quality to the illustrations, especially in the fight scenes. This graphic novel series will be popular with readers of the novels and conversely, it might be a good stepping stone to the novels for reluctant readers.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Horowitz, Anthony
Illustrator: Vieceli, Emma
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,graphic novel
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780763692575
Price: 14.99
All-Star Batman Volume 1: My Worst Enemy
All-Star Batman Volume 1: My Worst Enemy
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
This is not a novel you can jump right into. Although it is Volume 1 in the All-Star Batman series, the plot requires you to be familiar with villains of the DC Universe and Batman’s backstory. Batman is attempting to help his friend, Harvey Dent to heal his scarring and rid himself of his split-identity as Two-Face. As they travel across the country, Batman and Dent find obstacles and enemies at every turn. Many of these obstacles are planted by Two-Face to thwart Batman’s attempt to help Dent, who has been a friend from childhood. The graphics are completed by a team of pencillers, inkers, colorists, letterers, and cover artists. The panels are very colorful and eye-catching, but that still does not help pull together all the characters and all the storylines.This graphic novel would have appeal to readers who are already avid fans of the DC Universe. If Batman or other DC graphic novels are popular in your library, this first in a five book series might be considered for an additional purchase.
Overall Book Score: fair
About the Book
Author:
Snyder, Scott
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: DC Comics
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,graphic novel
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781401269784
Price: 9.99
Blood Rose Rebellion
Blood Rose Rebellion
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: December 12, 2017
Review
In this first book in a new historical fantasy trilogy set in Europe, the Luminate are the upper class of society and are the only ones who can possess magic. Anna, born into the Luminate, however, is barren of magic. In her presence, spells are often broken or unpredictable. After Anna ruins her sister’s confirmation into magic, Anna is sent to Hungary with her grandmother where she learns family secrets and eventually the truth about herself. In the greater society, the commoners are starting to revolt. They want access to magic and are beginning to stage a rebellion against the Luminate and Anna may be the key to helping them. The author’s note in the back of the book aligns with European events of 1847 and 1848 in Europe, like the Hungarian Revolution, and this brings an interesting depth to the story. However, the rest of the plot does not distinguish itself from other popular dystopian and fantasy series.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Eves, Rosalyn
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Alred A. Knopf
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: fantasy,historical fiction
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: good
ISBN: 9781101935996
Price: 17.99
Little Wrecks
Little Wrecks
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: December 12, 2017
Review
This debut novel set in the 1970s confronts the difficulty of girls trying to find their way out of a confining suburban neighborhood. Miller creates sentences that show deep insight into girlhood and readers will find a connection to the current #MeToo movement. Miller’s sentences are very poetic creating an atmosphere that is dark and brooding, but the plot never becomes substantial enough to hold the reader's attention, bouncing back and forth between events too quickly. This feels atmospheric at first, but eventually makes the plot difficult to follow. Other than the Vietnam War, Miller’s references the time period will not be familiar to younger readers: Easy Rider, Betty Friedan, and Mrs.Robinson. This book should be considered an additional purchase. Turn readers instead to We Are the Goldens Dana Reinhardt and The Female of the Species by Mindy McGinnis.
Overall Book Score: fair
About the Book
Author:
Miller, Meredith
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Harper
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: good
ISBN: 9780062474254
Price: 17.99
Who Killed Christopher Goodman?
Who Killed Christopher Goodman?
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: December 12, 2017
Review
This story is based on a true-life crime in the author’s hometown. Instead of focusing on the murder, the actual focal point is on a group of teenagers trying to come to terms with the murder of a classmate. Set in a small town in Virginia in 1979, Christopher Goodman is a friendly, easygoing Senior. Much of the book is spent during the weeks before the annual community celebration of Deadwood Days. The reader meets Goodman through the multi-voice chapters of his classmates, one of whom is his murderer. Readers become familiar with the hopes, dreams, and friendships, and allows them to relate to the guilt each one feels after the murder since each person feels like they could have done something differently to prevent it. There are a few references to 1970s culture, such as the Dukes of Hazzard and tv dinners. Readers may note that some of the language used by the teenagers seems quaint, but overall the unfolding of the murder will keep readers turning the page. The author’s note at the end connects the actual crime with the fictional account providing insight into the characters and the murder. Mystery and true crime readers will be sure to enjoy this book.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Wolf, Allan
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: mystery,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: good
ISBN: 9780763656133
Price: 16.99
Gabby Garcia's Ultimate Playbook
Gabby Garcia's Ultimate Playbook
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: January 9, 2018
Review
Gabby’s middle school has to close unexpectedly during the school year because of asbestos and she is sent to another school. Up until this point, her year has been record-setting: good grades, good hair, and a stellar softball season. She expects things to continue along these lines at her new school but soon realizes that there might be more to middle school than winning and that it often takes a team to do so. Written in journal style with illustrations, readers will enjoy Gabby’s funny, sassy intelligence. They will root for her to succeed and learn important lessons with her along the way. This is the first in a series that will be a hit with middle schoolers.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Palmer, Iva-Marie
Illustrator: Kissi, Marta
Illustration Quality: very good
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Audience: grades 7-9
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780062391759
Price: 12.99
The Adventures of John Blake: Mystery of the Ghost Ship
The Adventures of John Blake: Mystery of the Ghost Ship
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: January 9, 2018
Review
Legend states that if you look into John Blake’s eyes, you will die, but when Serena falls overboard during her family’s sailing around the world John Blake and his ghost ship save her. Due to an experiment gone wrong, John and his crew sail through centuries trying to find a way home and to stop the powerful and corrupt Dahlberg Corporation. Serena and John work together to stop the Dahlberg Corporation while trying to find their way back to their homes. Fans of the Alex Rider novels and graphic novels will be sure fans of John Blake as well. This graphic novel by Philip Pullman is an addictive mix of sci-fi and adventure. This time-bending tale jumps between time and place, but the clever writing and illustrations make the story easy to follow. This is surely the first to come in other John Blake adventures.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Pullman, Philip
Illustrator: Fordham, Fred
Illustration Quality: excellent
Publisher: Graphix
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,science fiction,graphic novel
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781338149128
Price: 19.99
My Brigadista Year
My Brigadista Year
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Katherine Paterson never disappoints. She creates stories with characters that readers root for, even while acknowledging the injustices of their worlds. The story begins in Havana in 1961. Thirteen-year-old Lora joins Castro’s movement to end illiteracy in Cuba by deploying volunteers to teach all Cubans to read. This historical fiction novel covers a little-known part of Cuba’s historic fight against illiteracy that involved over 250,000 volunteers. It is also a coming-of-age novel as Lora learns more about the people outside of Havana, makes new friends, and faces dangerous situations. There is a spirit of adventure to the novel, as well as a sense of human kindness.The novel includes an author’s note, a map, and a timeline of Cuban history. This book might be of interest to readers of The Red Umbrella by Christian Gonzalez which is more critical of the Castro regime.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Paterson, Katherine
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: historical fiction
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780763695088
Price: 15.99
Vanilla
Vanilla
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: January 9, 2018
Review
Vanilla and Hunter are best friends. They have also been dating since seventh grade. Now that they are in high school, Hunter is ready to begin a sexual relationship, but Vanilla is not sure. Vanilla likes to cuddle with Hunter but is confused by why he does not want to take the next step. Through the help of another friend, Vanilla realizes that he may be asexual. Parts of the story felt a little drawn out and angsty, but after their break up, the boys gain some self-awareness which moves the plot along. This is a novel-in-verse with Vanilla and Hunter alternating their chapters. Some of the poems have a unique structure, like the Venn diagram poem. Recommended for all collections that serve teens.These are voices that need to be head. Fans of David Levithan will want to add this to their “To Read List.”
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Merrell, Billy
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: romance,realistic fiction,fiction in verse / poetry
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781338100921
Price: 17.99
The Lines We Cross
The Lines We Cross
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: January 9, 2018
Review
Abdel-Fattah examines the lines between the personal and the political in her new novel exploring immigration in a small Australian community. The narrators, Michael and Mina, are students at an elite high school. Michael’s father is the founder of Aussie Values, a group that disguises its racist policies in polite language. Mina was born in Afghanistan, where she lost her father and brother; her mother and step-father are looking to build a new life. Michael has always gone along with his father’s beliefs, but when he meets Mina, politics becomes personal and he begins to question the rhetoric he has heard his whole life. Both voices are well-developed and tackle hard issues on both sides while at the same time maintaining a Romeo and Juliet love story. Recommended for fans of Abdel-Fattah’s other novels and debut novel, Saints and Misfits by S.K. Ali.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Abdel-Fattah, Randa
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: romance,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: Choose Binding Type
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781338118667
Price: 18.99
Racial Profiling: Everyday Inequality
Racial Profiling: Everyday Inequality
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
This book is a must-have for libraries serving teens. It can be used for research or to inspire youth activists. Tamir Rice, Rodney, King, Freddie Gray, Michael Brown, Trayvon Martin, the Flint water crisis, Islamophobia, and the Black Lives Matter Movement are all covered in this 140-page book.The author succinctly traces the political policies throughout history that have created our current culture. Laws and rights and are well explained clearly in both words and colorful charts and graphs.The supporting pictures will grab the reader’s attention. Clear definitions of racial profiling are explained in the text as well as a history of racism in the United States, both explicit and implicit. A Glossary, Source Notes, a Selected Bibliography, suggested Further Information, and an Index is included. This book could be used for class discussions in a civics class or as a nonfiction pairing for The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Behnke, Alison Marie
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Twenty-First Century Books
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre:
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781512402681
Price: 35.22
Find Your Style: Boost Your Body Image Through Fashion Confidence
Find Your Style: Boost Your Body Image Through Fashion Confidence
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: January 9, 2018
Review
Sally McGraw presents extremely positive and diverse ideas about fashion and body image in this book. She begins by explaining how she dressed for invisibility in middle and high school because she did not like her body. Then she realized that clothes could be a tool; you do not have to dress like a model, instead dress in what looks good on your body type and in a way that expresses your personality. McGraw also addresses the timely topics of gender flexible clothes, double-standards of school dress codes, and religious fashion restrictions. The images that accompany the text are diverse and complement the text well. McGraw also discusses thrift shops, altering, and professional tailoring as options to finding unique and individual styles. There are books and websites listed at the back for further information. This book sends and an extremely positive message will be a self-esteem boost for anyone who reads it.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
McGraw, Sally
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Twenty-First Century Books
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre:
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781467785693
Price: 32.75
Good and Gone
Good and Gone
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
This YA road-trip novel by Maine author, Megan Frazer Blakemore tackles tough issues of depression and sexual abuse. A missing pop star is the impetus for siblings, Lexi and Charlie, along with neighbor, Zack, to venture away from home. Each one has a secret and as the miles pass truths are revealed. Lexi is the narrator of the story and through a series of flashbacks, the reader learns that she was raped by her boyfriend and has never told anyone. This is a very different tone from Blakemore’s other YA novels; Lexi is edgy and angry, but becomes more likeable as the reader begins to understand her vulnerability. Each chapter begins with a unique touch-a piece of a fairy tale that compliments the narrative nicely. The edgy humor is reminiscent of Ned Vizzini novels and fans of E. Lockhart with relate to the strength and intelligence of the female characters.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Frazer Blakemore, Megan
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Harper Teen
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780062348425
Price: 17.99
This Book's Maine Connection: Maine author
Legalizing Marijuana: promises and pitfalls
Legalizing Marijuana: promises and pitfalls
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: February 11, 2018
Review
Although, the subtitle of this book is “Promises and Pitfalls”, more time is spent on the promises. The book begins with a story about Charlotte, a five-year-old, suffering from severe seizures. Traditional medications only worked temporarily, so Charlotte’s parents turned to CBD oil. Charlotte suffered very few seizures once she began this doctor-approved treatment. The book then goes on to cover the history of marijuana use, political influence, and laws that have made research difficult, race and drugs, as well as the current booming businesses for dispensaries. The information is presented in an organized format with informational pictures and pull-out quotes. Source notes, glossary, selected bibliography, resources for further information, and index are included. This book would be a good source for those interested in the legalization of marijuana, but those looking for arguments against would be better off with another source.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Goldstein, Margaret J.
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Twenty-First Century Books
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre:
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781467792431
Price: 35.99
Trell
Trell
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: February 11, 2018
Review
This story written by journalist, Dick Lehr, is based on the 1988 murder of twelve-year-old Tiffany Moore which Lehr helped solve as a reporter for the Boston Globe. Tiffany was an innocent victim of the drug war that became the political, hot-button issue of the time. In the book, Trell’s father is in jail for the shooting of Ruby Graham (the fictional Tiffany Moore). Trell’s father had been a drug dealer, but he has always maintained that he was innocent of Ruby’s murder. Trell and her father convince a young lawyer to review his case. When an appeal is lost, they turn to the media to have their side of the story heard and what they learn puts lives in danger. This book tackles police corruption and the notion that every defendant gets a fair day in court. This is a compelling story that will appeal to readers of true crime and suspense novels.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Lehr, Dick
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780763692759
Price: 17.99
Prom
Prom
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: February 11, 2018
Review
Rutledge starts her story in the nineteenth century when proms were only for the upper-class and she overviews how they became a staple of the average high school experience. The author sets the history of proms and fashion into historical context: the Roaring Twenties, The Great Depression, Vietnam, and segregation. Rutledge brings the prom to present day looking at costs, Duct tape prom outfits, and social media. She also addresses the struggles LBGTQ students have historically had in terms of clothing options and date choices. The back of the book includes source notes, resources for further information, and information about support groups to help students make good choices on prom night. It is hard to determine the audience for this book. It seems targeted to a middle school audience, but prom is high school event. Tweens always want to know what is coming next, so it would be best for middle school collections.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Zimmerman Rutledge, Jill S.
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Twenty-First Century Books
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre:
Audience: grades 7-9
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781512402674
Price: 35.99
Black Holes: A Space Discovery Guide
Black Holes: A Space Discovery Guide
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: February 11, 2018
Review
This is just one book in Lerner’s Space Discovery Guides. This particular guide covers Black Holes. The information is current and explained well for its younger audience without backing away from scientific terms. This book is recommended for grades 4-6 and the content of the main text aligns with this age group. There are however very realistic looking “artist renderings” of black holes next to actual photos of labs and scientists. A close reader should understand that a black hole has never been photographed, but it might be confusing for some younger readers. If these pictures had a different color or format, it would have provided visual clues for the younger readers. The author includes source notes, sources for further reading, a glossary, and an index. As with the other books in the series, Lerner provides free educational resources that align to Common Core Standards on their website.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Roland, James
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Lerner
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre:
Audience: grades 4-6
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781512425864
Price: 31.99
Pointe, Claw
Pointe, Claw
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: March 4, 2018
Review
The author, Amber J. Keyser, is a former ballerina and an evolutionary biologist, and she brings both these interests to life through the characters of Dawn and Jessie. Dawn is hoping to study at Stanford next fall, but then she begins to experience unexplained blackouts and a sense that she is trapped in her skin. Jessie is a ballerina who has trained for years and has one last chance during her senior year to prove she is a star. Dawn and Jessie have not seen each other for years since their parents separated them when they are caught experimenting with their new-found puberty. They are brought together again when Dawn's mother contacts Jessie's family in hopes that it can somehow help with her daughter's condition. The alternating narratives weave together to form a story that is intense, full of raw and powerful emotion. Recommend for students looking for something different than a traditional dance story or for those who like pondering the intersection of the supernatural and science.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Keyser, Amber J.
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Carolrhoda Lab
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: science fiction,romance
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781467775915
Price: 18.99
Olga and the Smelly Thing From Nowhere
Olga and the Smelly Thing From Nowhere
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: March 4, 2018
Review
Olga loves animals and science. She lives and breathes the scientific method: observations, experiments, and hypotheses. When she finds a thing in her shed that looks like a cross between a hamster and a potato, she must really put her science skills to work to figure out what it is. The story is told in a style of words and graphics similar to Diary of a Wimpy Kid. The humor is quirky with a lot of jokes about bodily functions. It is a good choice for reluctant readers. The only drawback to this book was the stereotypes it perpetuated between smart girls like Olga and the “Lalas” girls who like beauty and pop culture. It is possible for girls to be both smart and interested in fashion, and the humor around this topic felt too snarky and judgemental. The second book in this series will be released in March.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Gravel, Elise
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Harper
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: science fiction,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 4-6
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780062351265
Price: 12.99
Olga and the Smelly Thing From Nowhere
Olga and the Smelly Thing From Nowhere
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: March 4, 2018
Review
Olga loves animals and science. She lives and breathes the scientific method: observations, experiments, and hypotheses. When she finds a thing in her shed that looks like a cross between a hamster and a potato, she must really put her science skills to work to figure out what it is. The story is told in a style of words and graphics similar to Diary of a Wimpy Kid. The humor is quirky with a lot of jokes about bodily functions. It is a good choice for reluctant readers. The only drawback to this book was the stereotypes it perpetuated between smart girls like Olga and the “Lalas” girls who like beauty and pop culture. It is possible for girls to be both smart and interested in fashion, and the humor around this topic felt too snarky and judgemental. The second book in this series will be released in March.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Gravel, Elise
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Harper
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: science fiction,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 4-6
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780062351265
Price: 12.99
Evil Emperor Penguin
Evil Emperor Penguin
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Evil Emperor Penguin wants to take over the world. He is aided by his sidekick, an Octopus, named Number 8, and his minion, an abominable snowman named, Eugene. And, of course, he has an adversary, Evil Cat. And if that is not enough, there is even a Unicorn named Kevin! There is plenty of word-play, color, and jokes to make this graphic novel appealing for many different types of readers. Reluctant readers will like the short chapters with a new adventure, while some readers will want to devour the whole book in one sitting. Fans of “Despicable Me” or Dav Pilkey’s humor will keep this book circulating! Luckily, there is a sequel coming soon.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Anderson, Laura Ellen
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Scholastic
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,fantasy,science fiction
Audience: grades k-3,grades 4-6
Binding Type: paperback
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781338132748
Price: 8.99
Oddity
Oddity
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: March 4, 2018
Review
This book will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Just as you think you have Oddity, New Mexico figured out something new pops out of the closet! Not only is the town is controlled by puppets and their human puppet masters, but there are ghosts in closets, giant centipedes, zombie bunnies, and an invisible Blurmonster. Ada ’s twin sister, Pearl, has disappeared after winning the town’s Sweepstakes, and things don’t seem right, even for a town as strange as Oddity. Ever since Pearl’s disappearance, Ada’s father works all the time and her mother has been depressed, so Ada and her friends decided to look for answers. This is a fun, absurd adventure for readers who enjoy a combination of suspense and fantasy.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Cannon, Sarah
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,fantasy,mystery
Audience: grades 4-6
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781250123282
Price: 16.99
Of Jenny and the Aliens
Of Jenny and the Aliens
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: March 4, 2018
Review
Is it the end of the world? Ten years after sending a transmission into space, a message has returned proving that we are not alone. Will the fear of aliens bond humans together and end wars and conflicts? Will Derek die a virgin or will he meet a girl at an “End of the World” party? The plot explores these questions and weaves together the story of a broken family, the angst of first-time love, and alien exploration of Earth with humor. The alien plot line, although interesting, feels lost at times under the story of Derek’s confusion about his first love. The alien story comes back in as an intervention of sorts that helps Derek move forward with his love life, friendships, and family situation. This is a hard book to recommend for an age group. There a lot of sex scenes, as well as drug and alcohol use that feels beyond teenage years and more true to a college experience.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Gebhart, Ryan
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: science fiction,romance,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780763688455
Price: 17.99
Shadowhouse Fall
Shadowhouse Fall
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 18, 2017
Review
Sierra Santiago is back and she is stronger than ever. In the second book of The Shadowshaper Cypher series, Older sets the bar for YA urban fantasy. As Sierra gathers her team of Shadowshapers, ancient powers connected to an enchanted deck of tarot-like cards, The Deck of Worlds, begins a battle that places Sierra directly in the middle. While the Shadowshapers fight these ancient powers, they must also confront the real-world issues of racial oppression that readers will recognize from current events. Sierra, an Afro-Latina teenager gives voice to views about both the real and the shadow worlds of Brooklyn that are written in believable urban, teen dialect. This book is both plot and character driven; it will be popular with readers of fantasy or urban YA, as well as those looking for a story about the power friendship and family. Before starting Shadowhouse Fall, readers may want to read two novellas, Ghost Girl in the Corner and Dead Light March, published between the first two books in the series.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Older, Daniel Jose
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Arthur A. Levine Books
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: fantasy
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780545952828
Price: 18.99
Hellwalkers
Hellwalkers
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: March 13, 2018
Review
The last book in Smith’s “The Devil’s Engine” trilogy reads like an episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer written by Stephen King. The gates of hell are wide open and once again Marlow and Pan must make a final deal with the devil and fight their way out of hell to save the earth from the ancient evil of the devil’s engine. Descriptive images of demons and gore in this plot-driven, horror story will appeal to middle schoolers who want to read under the covers past their bedtime, too afraid to go to sleep. Readers of the series will find the ending of this trilogy very satisfying.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Smith, Alexander Gordon
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: horror
Audience: grades 7-9
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780374301743
Price: 18.99
Ringer
Ringer
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High Schoo, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: May 8, 2018
Review
The story continues for Lyra and Gemma. Haven Institute has been destroyed, but they both continue to seek answers about their own beginnings and their own humanity. This second book in Lauren Oliver’s Replica series is another fast-paced adventure told in two mirroring stories; Lyra tells one half and if the book is flipped over, Gemma’s story is the other half. Readers can alternate chapters or read each story individually. Oliver tackles the big questions surrounding medical research. She asks readers to ponder how many have to be saved for casualties to be worth it? Can you clone humans or is our humanity defined by more than just our cells? This story challenges readers to answer these questions while gaining the perspectives of each narrator. Enough answers are revealed to satisfy readers and move the series forward. This series would make for an interesting book club read since Oliver provides so much to explore in terms of biomedical ethics and readers will likely have a favorite in either Lyra or Gemma. Again, Oliver has written a solid choice for middle and high school collections.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Oliver, Lauran
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,science fiction
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780062693136
Price: 19.99
The Pretty Brilliant Experiment Book
The Pretty Brilliant Experiment Book
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: May 8, 2018
Review
This science book is based on a Netflix series, Project Mc2, which is follows a group of girls in a secret government agency, NOV8 ("innovate") trying to save the world. The book starts with a story the group training for their next mission. Each chapter has a STEAM experiment that could potentially be used to help NOV8 on their secret missions. The experiments will also help readers learn about electricity, chemistry, DNA and more. Each chapter follows the same format and includes workbook pages to record data, as well as extra notebook pages at the end. This “girl power” book will appeal to viewers of the series or middle school girls who are interested in STEAM. Although the creators seem to be looking to defy stereotypes (girls can be smart and pretty), at times the narrative seems shallow.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Hemsworth, Jade
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Imprint
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre:
Audience: grades 4-6
Binding Type: paperback
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781250103697
Price: 12.99
Transphobia: Deal With It and Be a Gender Transcender
Transphobia: Deal With It and Be a Gender Transcender
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: May 8, 2018
Review
This Canadian-published book is a good resource for middle school classrooms. The book begins with specific examples and a definition of transphobia. The rest of the book is very interactive with quizzes, “Dos and Don’ts” checklists, and “Did You Know?” sections. Although some of the statistics are Canadian, American students would still find them informative. The intersectional illustrations include many races as well as differently-abled students. At the end, there are lists of resources for further information, as well as some recommended fictional books that include trans characters. This book is part of the “Deal With It” series that includes other topics like homophobia, racism, bullying, and cyberbullying. This book would be a helpful and important resource for classrooms, particularly any communities that are dealing with transphobic behavior.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Skelton, J Wallace
Illustrator: Johnson, Nick
Publisher: James Lorimer & Company, Ltd.
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre:
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781459407664
Price: 22.65
You Can't Hide
You Can't Hide
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: May 8, 2018
Review
The number one rule in any horror story is don’t split up, but that is exactly what happens to Poppy, Marcus, Dash, Dylan, and Azumi, the kids trapped in Shadow House. Disappearing doors and creatures that build illusions based on your greatest desires and greatest fears, make the second book in the Shadow House series a fast-paced story that will keep readers turning the pages. The text is accompanied by eerie pictures that are just the right amount of creepy for middle schoolers looking for a good horror story. There is an app that accompanies that allows the reader to enter “Shadow House”; each image is marked by a symbol that will reveal a haunting. This will entice many readers. Purchase this book where the first book in the series is popular and where more horror is needed for tween readers.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
Poblocki, Dan
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: horror
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780545925518
Price: 12.99
The Keep of Ages
The Keep of Ages
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: May 8, 2018
Review
This is the final installment in the Vault of Dreamers trilogy. Rosie must find a way to save her family who has been kidnapped and held hostage by Berg. If she is caught, Rosie knows she will not be able to survive the lethal dream-mining procedure that Berg is planning for her. The suspense and surprises will keep readers turning the pages and the ending will not disappoint. Like O’Brien’s Birthmarked series, this series contains a strong female heroine to whom readers will connect. Purchase where the Vault of Dreamers series is popular. Also, consider purchasing the whole series if you have readers looking for strong female heroines in dystopian, sci-fi series.
Overall Book Score: good
About the Book
Author:
O'Brien, Caragh M.
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,fantasy,science fiction,mystery
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781596439429
Price: 17.99
Sanctuary
Sanctuary
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: June 3, 2018
Review
The second book in this trilogy by Jane Yolen and her son, Adam Stemple, continues the story of Silex and Craig. Silex is a demon in the form of a stone gargoyle who sits on top of a church in Edinburgh, Scotland and Craig is his human assistant. In this story, they are trying to figure out who the mysterious girl is that has suddenly appeared on their church doorstep. The story is slow at first but does pick up in the final chapters when Hellhounds and other demons enter the story. This story contains many Christian references and readers may be confused if they do not have the religious background. The dialogue is also written in Scottish dialect which may again be difficult for some readers. The black and white illustrations by Orion Zangara are best when monsters are depicted. This should be considered an additional purchase.
Overall Book Score: fair
About the Book
Author:
Yolen, Jane
Illustrator: Zangara, Orion
Illustration Quality: good
Publisher: Graphic Universe
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: fantasy,mystery
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781467741972
Price: 29.32
Hermes: Tales of the Trickster
Hermes: Tales of the Trickster
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: June 3, 2018
Review
This is the tenth installment in George O’Connor’s Olympians series. This installment is sure to delight. Readers of all ages will love the retelling of Hermes's shenanigans. The art in this graphic novel is as colorful and vivid as the other books in the series. This could serve as an introduction for those new to the world of Greek mythology, but it will also entertain those familiar with the story. An Author’s Note is included in the back as well as profiles of the main characters, Geek Notes that provide insight into the story and illustrations, a Bibliography, a list of recommended sources, and a Discussion Guide. This is a must-purchase for school and public libraries where the series is already popular. If you have not yet purchased the Olympian graphic novels for your library, you should definitely add them to your next order!
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
O'Connor, George
Illustrator: ,
Illustration Quality: excellent
Publisher: First Second
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,folklore,graphic novel
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781626725249
Price: 24.99
The Disturbed Girl's Dictionary
The Disturbed Girl's Dictionary
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: June 3, 2018
Review
This book provided powerful insight into a life of poverty. It was sad and disturbing, so much so that I often had to put it down; however, it is an important story and a voice that is a necessary addition to young adult collections. Macy is angry and she has every right to be. Her father is in jail, her mother is on drugs, her brother has been removed by Child Protective Services, she often has to sleep in the bathtub, and she has been labeled “disturbed” by her school. Through all this Macy is a survivor who does the best she can to keep her family and friendships together. Macy’s first-person story is often disconnected and jumbled, as is her life, but this adds to the realism of the telling. A few heartbreaking scenes are quite graphic and best suited for mature YA audiences.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Ramos, Nonieqa
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Carolrhoda Lab
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781512439762
Price: 17.99
Marley Dias Gets It Done
Marley Dias Gets It Done
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: June 3, 2018
Review
Marley Dias, founder of the #1000BLACKGIRLBOOKS knows she is not the only kid who wants to change the world and she has a lot of advice to offer about how to do it. Dias explains her inspiration and founding her movement with contagious enthusiasm. Any reader who has ever thought of leading a change will be inspired. There are helpful toolkits for those changemakers who need help getting started. Readers will enjoy the illustrations scattered throughout of Dias with her family, speaking at events, and with celebrities. There is, of course, a lot of focus on literacy and literature with particular attention on Jacqueline Woodson and Rita Williams-Garcia who have been mentors for Dias. As Ava DuVernay explains in the introduction, this book is about passion and Dias will certainly inspire readers to find theirs. There is a book list in the back that will be helpful for readers and for developing diverse library collections. This is a must-have for public and school library collections.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Dias, Marley
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre: biography / autobiography
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9
Binding Type: paperback
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781338136890
Price: 14.99
Voices In the Air: Poems For Listeners
Voices In the Air: Poems For Listeners
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: June 11, 2018
Review
In this collection of poetry, Nye reminds us to listen to the world. The poems cover topics such as racism and war; mentioned specifically are Gaza, Aleppo, and Ferguson. She pays tribute to Emily Dickinson, Maya Angelou, Bruce Springsteen, Lucille Clifton, Walt Whitman, Jack Kerouac, Henry David Thoreau, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Together these poems feel like a collection of musings on the world through Nye’s eyes. She is often critical of the world, but overall this collection also offers a sense of hope. Biographical notes provide insight and background to the people mentioned in the book. Individually these poems would make great conversation starters and introductory lessons in classrooms. This is a recommended purchase for school libraries.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Nye, Naomi Shihab
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre: fiction in verse / poetry
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9780062691842
Price: 17.99
Wires and Nerve, Volume 2: Gone Rogue
Wires and Nerve, Volume 2: Gone Rogue
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 10, 2018
Review
Marissa Meyer returns with the second volume of the graphic novel series based on the Meyer’s Lunar Chronicles. Steele and his army of genetically engineered wolfe-army need to be stopped before they can attack Lunar Queen Cinder and endanger the peace between Earth and Luna. Steele is convinced that Cinder has the power to undo the mutations and make them human again. Meanwhile, Cinder has announced her plan to abdicate her throne and hold elections on Luna. The action and romantic tension of the series continue in this book, and series characters Iko, Winter, Scarlet, and fight in the battle that will decide the fate of the Cinder and all of Luna. Stephen Gilpin’s images are created in blue tones that visually set a sci-fi tone. Fans of Meyer’s sci-fi, fractured fairy tale world will not be disappointed.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Meyer, Marissa
Illustrator: Gilpin , Stephen
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,fantasy,science fiction,graphic novel
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781250078285
Price: 21.99
Speak: the Graphic Novel
Speak: the Graphic Novel
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date:
Review
When Speak was first published in 1999, it was groundbreaking. It addressed rape and its aftermath in a way that no other YA book had. Almost 20 years later, it is still taught, challenged, and read widely. It has not become dated; the conversations and concerns in the book are still relevant today. Now Laurie Halse Anderson has teamed up with Emily Carroll to create a graphic novel version of Speak. Drawn in stark, black and white, the book is haunting. As Anderson mentions in the Author’s Note, the world has changed dramatically since the late 1990s, so the updated story mentions cell phones, Instagram, and current political issues. This new graphic novel should be in every library that serves young adults. Anyone who is looking to find their voice will connect with Melinda’s story.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Anderson, Laurie Halse
Illustrator: Carroll, Emily
Publisher: Farrar Strauss Giroux
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction,graphic novel
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780374300289
Price: 19.99
Bone's Gift
Bone's Gift
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: July 10, 2018
Review
Did Bone’s mother die because of her “gift”? When Bone receives a mysterious note in her pocket questioning her mother’s cause of death, she begins to seek answers. “Gifts” run in Bone’s family; Bone’s gift is the ability to see memories just by touching objects while her mother’s “gift” was the ability to heal. Set in southwest Virginia in the 1940s, Smibert paints a memorable picture of coal town in the midst of WWII. Bone’s future becomes uncertain when her father is drafted into the war, so she relies on her “gift” to see into her family’s past to find answers to heal family rifts and look to the future. Blending together history, Appalachia storytelling traditions, and magical realism, and mystery, this story will appeal to a wide-range of readers. This is the first book in Smibert’s Ordinary Objects Trilogy.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Smibert, Angie
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Boyd's Mill Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: fantasy,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 4-6,grades 7-9
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781629798509
Price: 17.95
Americanized: Rebel Without a Green Card
Americanized: Rebel Without a Green Card
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date:
Review
In her humorous memoir, Sara Saedi recollects her years as an average teenager worrying about acne, dreaming about becoming a celebrity and obsessing over her crushes, all the while living as an undocumented immigrant. Saedi begins her story with background of Iran, explaining why her family left Tehran in the middle of the Islamic Revolution, but much of the book is about her teen years. In between her stories of adolescent angst, Saedi explains why Iranians keep watering cans in their bathrooms, the Persian custom of arguing over the check, and Iranian Wedding Traditions. There are also interesting pop culture references, excerpts from Saedi’s childhood journal, and family photos. This memoir will appeal to a large audience. Readers will learn about Iranian history and traditions, and the universal experience of being a teenager in the U.S. no matter your citizenship status. This is a must purchase!
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Saedi, Sara
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre: biography / autobiography
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781524717797
Price: 17.99
Neverworld Wake
Neverworld Wake
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: August 7, 2018
Review
Beatrice and her friends die in a car accident, except they seem to be alive living the same day over again. They are stuck in the Neverworld Wake. One of them will be allowed to return to the living, but only if the whole group can decide on who “the one” should be. As the group attempts to grasp the fantastical Neverworld Wake, they wonder if the mysterious death of their friend, Jim, is the key. This is Pessl's first foray into YA and like her adult novels, Pessl builds suspense and atmosphere masterfully; readers will forget the rest of the world exists and fall into the realm of the Neverworld Wake. Unfortunately, the characters feel like archetypes and it is hard to invest in them, but this will not keep fans of Oliver's Before I Fall, and Lockhart's We Were Liars from devouring this book.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Pessl, Marisha
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: fantasy,mystery
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 97803995539929
Price: 18.99
Vaccination Investigation: The History and Science of Vaccines
Vaccination Investigation: The History and Science of Vaccines
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: August 8, 2018
Review
According to the CDC, vaccinations are in the top ten of the greatest public health achievements of the Twentieth Century. After reading this book, readers will understand this rating and the impact that vaccinations have had on the world. Author, Tara Haelle, a science journalist, provides a well-researched presentation of the science of vaccines, their history, the anti-vaccine movement, and the possibilities of the future. This book does not shy away from using scientific terms which makes it a challenging, but a very worthwhile read. Illustrations, charts, and sidebars provide connections to current events and personal accounts. Students using this book for research will find abundant information about vaccines in the U.S and around the world. This book could also serve as a supplement for a science textbook. Source notes, Glossary, Selected Bibliography, resources for Further Information, and an Index are included.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Haelle, Tara
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Twenty-First Century Books
Book Type: chapter book nonfiction
Genre:
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: excellent
ISBN: 9781512425307
Price: 37.32
All Summer Long
All Summer Long
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: October 8, 2018
Review
This graphic novel about changing friendships written and illustrated by Eisner Award-winning author, Hope Larson, will connect with any reader who ever felt the pains of middle school. Bina and Austin have been best friends since they were born. Each summer they keep track of their fun in a "summer fun index", but now that middle school has ended things are beginning to change. Austin leaves for a soccer camp that he did not even tell Bina about. Bina has always loved music and is interested in starting a band, so with Austin gone she begins to focus on developing her own interests. The art is simple black, white, and orange panels that focus on the faces of the characters and their emotions which only helps the reader to explore the confusion that Bina feels as she experiences the upheaval between middle school and high school. This is a strong selection for libraries serving middle school and high school students. Recommended for fans of Raina Telgemeier.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Larson, Hope
Illustrator: Larson, Hope
Illustration Quality: excellent
Publisher: Farrar Strauss Giroux
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: realistic fiction,graphic novel
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780374304850
Price: 21.99
Animus
Animus
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: October 8, 2018
Review
It is true that everybody is afraid of something. In this story, there is a small park in Kyoto, Japan of which everyone should fear. Each piece of equipment holds a special power to know your deepest fears, to enter other’s dreams, or to warp time. The playground is haunted by a masked boy named "Toothless." Is he really just a witness to what happens on the playground or does the playground really have a mind of its own? Is the playground responsible for all the mysterious disappearances of children and will its reign of horror end when the body of Toothless is found? This black and white graphic novel is the perfect blend of creepy, dark, and compelling until the very last page. Warning: do not read before bed!
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Revoy, Antoine
Illustrator: Revoy, Antoine
Illustration Quality: excellent
Publisher: First Second
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: mystery,horror,graphic novel
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: paperback
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781626721838
Price: 16.99
Animus
Animus
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: October 8, 2018
Review
It is true that everybody is afraid of something. In this story, there is a small park in Kyoto, Japan of which everyone should fear. Each piece of equipment holds a special power to know your deepest fears, to enter other’s dreams, or to warp time. The playground is haunted by a masked boy named "Toothless." Is he really just a witness to what happens on the playground or does the playground really have a mind of its own? Is the playground responsible for all the mysterious disappearances of children and will its reign of horror end when the body of Toothless is found? This black and white graphic novel is the perfect blend of creepy, dark, and compelling until the very last page. Warning: do not read before bed!
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Revoy, Antoine
Illustrator: Revoy, Antoine
Illustration Quality: excellent
Publisher: First Second
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: mystery,horror,graphic novel
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: paperback
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9781626721838
Price: 16.99
A Girl Like That
A Girl Like That
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: October 8, 2018
Review
When Porus and Zarin are found dead as a result of a car accident many people wonder what Porus was doing with "a girl like that"? Porus is by definition a good boy who helps his family and has always stayed away from trouble. "That girl" is Zarin, an outspoken, rebellious orphan who defies expectation by flirting with and dating boys. In her debut novel set in Saudi Arabia, Tanaz Bhathena creates a love story which explores and pushes against the cultural expectations of girls and gives voice to their budding desires for love and independence. The story tackles the complicated and timely issue of sexual assault, as well as complex family dynamics. The chapters alternate between Porus, Zarin, and occasional classmates to piece their story together. The alternating narration does not provide distinct voices for each character, but the plot twists move the story forward. This book should be part of every Young Adult Library collection for its inclusion of teenage voices in modern Saudi Arabia. A glossary of words and phrases is listed in the back.
Overall Book Score: excellent
About the Book
Author:
Bhathena, Tanaz
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Farrar Strauss Giroux
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: romance,realistic fiction
Audience: grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780374305444
Price: 17.99
The Price Guide to the Occult
The Price Guide to the Occult
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: October 8, 2018
Review
Nor is the descendant of Rona Blackburn, who cursed the original settlers of Anathema Island when they condemned her for being a witch. Rona’s modern-day descendants continue to live on Anathema Island and each has inherited a "burden" or magical power. Nor's "burden" is her ability to hear and feel the thoughts of plants and animals, but she is beginning to suspect that her powers are even stronger. When Nor’s estranged mother returns to the island, the reunion turns into a battle royale. Nor stands up to her mother and learns the full capabilities of her powers. Themes of self-harm and abandonment are handled responsibly, but overall, the characters were one-dimensional and the plot is predictable. A few unresolved issues hint at a possible sequel. Consider for an additional purchase where paranormal books such as the Beautiful Creatures series are popular.
Overall Book Score: fair
About the Book
Author:
Walton, Leslye
Illustrator: ,
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: fantasy,romance
Audience: grades 7-9,grades 10-12
Binding Type: library binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 978076369110
Price: 18.99
