Page by Paige

Page by Paige

By Laura Lee Gulledge

Amulet Books, 2011. 1 volume (unpaged). Teen Graphic Novel

Summary:

The unfortunately named Paige Turner has just moved to New York from Virginia. While her parents are excited about the move, Paige isn't. She has a lot of emotions, doubts, and worries swirling around in her. She decides to start putting those feelings and dilemmas down on paper, opening herself up in her sketchbook. She also starts to realize the value in opening up to other people, including her friend Jules and cute Gabe, who has the potential to be more than a friend...
Fighting her insecurities is hard, but as she continues with her art and with building relationships, she finds a sense of empowerment and more inner peace.

Review:

This graphic novel is fantastic! I was blown away by the illustrations, which so fabulously illustrated Paige's inner turmoil. The prose was good, too, varying with Paige's varying emotions, from darker to buoyant. I love watching Paige and Gabe's unfolding romance--there were some truly awesome lines there (Anyone who can relate a relationship to Legos and "clickage" is super cook). I think this is my new favorite graphic novel, and I highly recommend it.

5 stars. There's a tiny bit of innuendo but it's otherwise clean.

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore

By William Joyce

Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2012. 1 vol. (unpaged)Picture Book

Summary:

Morris Lessmore loves books and words, and he's even working on writing his own book, but when a terrible storm comes, it blows everything away--even the words of Morris's book. Bereft of the words, Morris begins to wander, and happens to see a lady being pulled through the sky by a group of books. When she sends one of her books to him, the book leads Morris to a book nest. Morris settles in among the books, organizing and repairing, and mostly importantly, reading them and sharing them with others. And at night, Morris begins again to write his own book, a project that takes years. Upon completion, Morris says that it is time for him to leave, which makes the books sad, but they notice that he leaves his own book behind, with "all of his joys and sorrows, all that he knew and everything that he hoped for"...and then a girl comes and begins to read Morris's story.

Review:

This beautiful book is the inspiration for the short film of the same name, which you should go watch immediately  if you haven't already. The book and the film are both...fantastic. Joyce takes readers through the despair of loss, as the storm rips all of the color out of life, through the healing process of books, which bring that color and hope back. For me, this sums up why I love books and why I became a librarian--because I believe in the healing power of books. I believe books and stories and words are one of the necessities of life. Morris's journey is poignant and beautiful, and this book is just amazing. The words and the pictures just pull you in, wrap around your heart, and pull you toward a feeling of hope, even through the sad moments, showing readers exactly what a good book does for you. (On a personal side note, one of the first books that ever took me a on healing journey was The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. I first read it shortly after my parents' less-than-amicable divorce, and reading that book was a cathartic experience for me. I could read the book, cry my eyes out as Ponyboy's story unfolded, and then return to reality with enough strength to keep going....and I returned to The Outsiders many times over the years as I need that experience again.)

I love the little details of this book, from the way that Humpty Dumpty (the book that leads Morris to the book nest) is dressed similarly to Morris and his (Humpty Dumpty's) expressions tell a story of their own. I love the "medical" scene as Morris is repairing a book, complete with a book as a heart monitor. I love the books sunbathing and having a picnic as Morris writes his book, and walking with canes like Morris as they age. And I love, love, love how, as Morris has aged, the books take care of him and even "read themselves to him each night."  There are so many fantastic details to go with a beautiful story.

I can't say enough good things about this book...so I'll just say that this might have just moved into the #2 spot on my list of favorite picture books (with Where the Wild Things Are being #1).

5 stars. Clean read.

The Pigeon series by Mo Willems

The Pigeon series by Mo Willems

Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2003. 1 vol. (unpaged). Picture book
When the bus driver has to leave for a minute, he asks you to watch the bus--but make sure the pigeon doesn't drive it. The pigeon tries begging, pleading, bargaining, and throwing in some trickery and a tantrum to try to get his way.
Ah. What's not to like about Mo Willems? It takes a tough reader not to want to give into the pigeon, but it's fun to see how the story progresses--and what that naughty pigeon does at the end!

The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2004. 1 vol. (unpaged). Picture book
The pigeon is ecstatic when he finds a hot dog...but before he can enjoy it, the duckling interrupts and asks him what a hot dog tastes like, citing his curiosity as the reason for his questions. The pigeon quickly sees through the guise and has no desire to share his hot dog and goes through all the emotions that come when you know should probably do something but don't want to. Once he has worked through those emotions, he is ready to do the right thing.
I like how in just a few pages, Willems can capture so much of realistic human emotion. The pigeon's justification process is so true to human nature, and then when he doe the right thing, the readers can feel the happiness that comes, right along with him.

The Pigeon Has Feelings, Too!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2005. 1 vol. (unpaged) Picture Book
When the bus driver suggests that the pigeon show his "happy face", the pigeon refuses and instead rants about how the driver makes him mad and sad. But when the driver uses a little reverse psychology, the pigeon plays right into his hands.
Ah, Pigeon. So easily upset, and so easily tricked...but in a good way. A good book for kids, this is also a good one for parents who need a little chuckle at all the reverse psychology they have to practice on their kids.

Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2006. 1 vol. (unpaged). Picture book
The pigeon doesn't want to go to bed--he's not tired, after all, so he uses all of his persuasive powers to try to get permission to stay up late, from saying studies show pigeons don't need much sleeping to invoking the cuteness of his stuffed rabbit to soften you up. But despite his protests, maybe he's just a little bit sleepy after all.
Willems has captured the child versus bedtime battle perfectly, as the pigeon needs his sleep but doesn't want to give into it. While that battle probably isn't so fun when you're dealing with a real child, it's sure fun to read about in this book.

The Pigeon Wants a Puppy!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2008. 1 vol. (unpaged) Picture Book

The pigeon has wanted "forever" or "At least since last Tuesday" a puppy. He promises to take care of it and will have lots of fun with it, of course...but when a puppy actually arrives, Pigeon isn't so sure after all.

I picked this book up because I needed a pick-me-up and knew Willems would deliver. Also, I want a puppy--and as I'm trying to convince my husband that we should get one, I sound remarkably like the pigeon! In Pigeon's conversation (we only see his side) with someone, he goes through the begging process, the promising to take care of it (although, he clearly doesn't understand what a puppy needs), the guilt trip process after he's been denied, and then the process of changing his mind once it looks like he's gotten what he wants. It's an excellent example of a what a kid would do when begging for a pet, or a particular toy, but it's done in a way that's very funny and entertaining. I highly enjoyed it...and unlike our beloved Pigeon, I still want a puppy :)

The Duckling Gets a Cookie?!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2012. 1 vol. (unpaged). Picture Book
Pigeon is aghast when he sees the duckling has a cookie--with nuts. When he finds out the duckling got the cookie simply by asking, he is even more indignant, since he asks for things all the time and never gets them, like to drive the bus, to have a hot dog party, to have a walrus, and more. Just as the pigeon is having a full-on tantrum about the unfairness of life, the duckling saves the day.
I'm not entirely certain this book has a good message, since it could teach kids that throwing tantrums can lead to them getting what they want...but it's still super fun and cute, so I would totally let any kid read it (and then make sure they knew not to try the tantrum thing to get their way.) You can't help but feel for the pigeon--since I'm sure we've all felt like he does and that the answer is always no and that life is unfair.

4 stars. Clean reads. Don't like this series quite as much as Willems' Elephant and Piggie series, but still, you can't help loving the Pigeon, too.

Mo Willems' Elephant and Piggie Books

The Elephant and Piggie series by Mo Willems 

Summaries and reviews

Today I Will Fly!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2007. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Piggie insists that she is going to fly; Gerald insists that she is not. Determined to find a way, Piggie seeks out help and surprises Gerald with what she can do.
Ah, the last two pages of these books are always so funny!. The rest of the book is, too, but there's always a little some extra at the very end that makes these books extra awesome.

My Friend Is Sad

Hyperion Books for Children, 2007. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Piggie notices that Gerald is sad, so she tries on various costumes--cowboy, clown, and robot--to cheer him up, but nothing seems to work.

This is one of my favorites of the series. Gerald is so cute as he's experiencing his sadness, and Piggie is so cute as she is trying to cheer him up.It's such a sweet story about friendship...and of course, has a little bit of humor thrown in.

I Am Invited to a Party!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2007. 57 pgs. Easy reader
When Piggie gets invited to a party, she asks Gerald to go with her. Gerald, insisting he knows all about parties, tells her they must be ready--for a fancy party, or a pool party, or a costume party. Although Piggie is a little skeptical, she decides to trust her friend, since he's supposed to be the party expert.
So funny. I love it.

There Is a Bird on Your Head!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2007. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Gerald is quite distraught when a bird lands on his head, and is joined by another bird...and the two of them proceed to make a nest, and lay eggs, and hatch babies! He's hysterical as Piggie is describing what's happening. Piggie finally suggests a solution, which ends up working well for Gerald, but not so well for Piggie.

This is the least realistic book of the series, since obviously birds couldn't build a nest, lay eggs, and hatch eggs all in such a short period of time, but it's still a funny look at problem solving and coming up with a solution rather than freaking out, so it's got the emotional truth even if the timing is a little warped :) (If Gerald could have seen how adorable the birds were,though, he would have let them stay!)

I Love My New Toy!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2008. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Piggie has gotten a new toy and she loves it. When she lets Gerald have a turn playing with it, he breaks it and then she is sad and mad. and both friends begin to cry. When a squirrel points out that the toy is actually a snap and break toy, Gerald and Piggie realize that what is really important is friendship.
Good book, good message. I think this would be great for taking children through the emotions of dealing with possessions and friendship and conflict.

I Will Surprise My Friend

Hyperion Books for Children, 2008. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Piggie and Gerald decide to surprise each other by hiding on opposite sides of a rock and then peering out at each other--except they keep looking the wrong direction. Beginning to worry about each other, Gerald worries that Piggie has fallen off a cliff, been grabbed by a bird, or eaten by a monster, while Piggie thinks Gerald has gone off to get lunch. As Gerald sets off to save Piggie, and she sets off to find lunch, they finally manage to surprise each other.
This has the typical fun twist at the end that will have kids laughing. 

Are You Ready to Play Outside?

Hyperion Books for Children, 2008. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Gerald and Piggie have just begun to plan what fun they will have outside when it begins to ran. Piggie is quite unhappy with the rain and how it has ruined their day; Gerald provides coverage for Pigge with his ear, and that gesture helps Piggie to cheer up. Soon the two friends are enjoying the rain--just in time for the rain to stop. Piggie is unhappy once again, but Gerald comes to the rescue again.
This is a cute story about friendship. (Okay, they all are, but I just liked how Gerald tried to make his friend happy and cheer him up on a rainy.)

Watch Me Throw the Ball!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2009. 57 pgs. Easy reader
When Piggie finds Gerald's ball, she wants to give it a toss. Gerald isn't convinced that Piggie will be able to throw it as far as he can, but Piggie wants to try. Her throw doesn't turn out quite as she expected, but she teaches Gerald a lesson in the process.
I didn't like this one as much as most of the other titles, maybe because we don't see that extra dose of sweetness between the two friends, but it's still a fun book, and it has a good message.

Elephants Cannot Dance!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2009. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Piggie offers to teach Gerald to dance; he tells her elephants can't dance. She tells him he can still try, so he tries...and tries...and tries.
I love seeing Gerald's efforts and his frustrations and then finally a resolution that makes him feel better. It's a great message for kids--or even adults--that it's okay to have fun and not do things perfectly.

Pigs Make Me Sneeze!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2009. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Gerald is quite upset when he can't stop sneezing, because he things perhaps his allergic to pigs, which is problematic since "Piggie is a pig!" and that means they can't be friends. Heartbroken, Gerald must leave his best friend behind...until Doctor Cat comes to the rescue.
I think kids will love seeing how Piggie keeps getting bowled over by Gerald's sneezes. This isn't my favorite of the Elephant and Piggie books, but it's still cute.

I Am Going!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2010. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Gerald and Piggie are having a nice day together--until Piggie announces that she is going, which causes a case of hysteria in Gerald, who begs and pleads with his friend not to go.

So many cute illustrations, of course. I like when Gerald tries to persuade Piggie not to go until tomorrow, or next week, or next year, that he shows her a pig calender :) The small details like that, combined with the spot-on voice of someone who is overreacting, make this book a lot of fun for readers of all ages.

Can I Play Too?

Hyperion Books for Children, 2010. 57 pgs.
Piggie and Gerald are just making plans to play catch when a snake asks if he can join in the fun. Piggie and Gerald don't know how a snake can play catch--since of course, he doesn't have arms--but they are determined to find a way. Just when it seems like none of their solutions will work, Piggie comes up with an idea of how they can all play catch.
Piggie's solution made me laugh out loud. I'm not sure it's a solution that would translate well to human children, but this would be a good book to use to discuss differences and acceptance--a good message wrapped up in all the normal sweetness and humor of the Elephant and Piggie books.

We Are in a Book!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2010. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Gerald and Piggie notice that there is someone watching them--a reader in fact. They are so excited to be in a book, and even try to get the reader to say things out loud! But when they realize that the book is coming to an end, panic sets in.
Of course all of these books are great read-alouds, but I love how Willems invites the reader to be an active participant in the book here. I can just imagine kids giggling right along with Gerald and Piggie--and wanting to read the book again, and again, and again.

I Broke My Trunk

Hyperion Books for Children, 2011. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Gerald has broken his trunk, and Piggie wants to know why, so he starts to tell the story...which begins when Gerald thought it would be a good idea to balance Hippo on his trunk....
I love looking at Piggie's expressions in this book, which range from horrified at what Gerald decided to balance on his trunk to impatient as the story drags on. The unfolding of story is super cute and happens in such a child-like way, showing how one thing led to another and then having unexpected twist at the end.

Should I Share My Ice Cream?

Hyperion Books for Children, 2011. 57 pgs. Easy reader
When Gerald gets an ice cream cone, he's super excited....until he begins to wonder if he should find Piggie and share. She is, after all, his best friend...but she's not there, and maybe she won't know, and...Gerald makes excuses until he pictures Piggie being sad somewhere, and then he's determined to use his ice cream to cheer her up, but by then, his ice cream has melted. Just as he's feeling down about blowing it, Piggie comes along with some ice cream of her own and saves the day.

Yet another great story about the complexity of friendship and how something that should be as simple as sharing can be easily justified away. Gerald's internal struggle is one that kids (and adults) will go through time and time again. Once again, I'm so impressed by how Willems captures human emotion so well using so few words.

Happy Pig Day!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2011. 57 pgs. Easy reader
Piggie is ecstatic that it's Happy Pig Day--a great day for pig food, pig games, and all sorts of pig fun. However, when Piggie's pig friends show up, Gerald feels left out because he is not a pig. Luckily, Piggie can reassure her friend that Happy Pig Day is for everyone.
Is it silly how a 57 page children's book can touch my heart? I really liked the little twist at the end of this one as Piggie realized Gerald was feeling bad and gave him just the right information to let him know he was included? I just thought it was so sweet, and I love seeing these two characters care for each other.

I think it's cute how the inside back cover illustrations in these books have a guest appearance from our favorite pigeon.

Listen to My Trumpet!

Hyperion Books for Children, 2012. 57 pgs. Easy reader
When Piggie gets a trumpet, she quickly invites Gerald to listen to her play...but her playing isn't exactly musical. Gerald doesn't want to hurt Piggie's feelings, but when she asks what he thinks of her trumpet, he faces a tough decision about what to say.
Aw, so cute. I know, I've way over-used the word cute in this post, but Gerald and Piggie ARE SO CUTE. I love their friendship, and the lessons we learn from them, and the little twists Willems always gives us.

Quick series list (in publication order):
Today I Will Fly!
My Friend Is Sad
I Am Invited to a Party!
There Is a Bird on Your Head!
I Love My New Toy!
I Will Surprise My Friend!
Are You Ready to Play Outside?
Watch Me Throw the Ball!
Elephants Cannot Dance!
Pigs Make Me Sneeze!
I Am Going!
Can I Play Too?
We Are in a Book!
I Broke My Trunk!
Should I Share My Ice Cream?
Happy Pig Day!
Listen to My Trumpet!


5 stars. What's not to love about them? Nothing. You must love everything, or clearly you have no heart or are broken in some way :)

The Short-Straw Bride

The Short-Straw Bride

By Karen Witemeyer

Bethany House, 2012. 363 pgs. Romance

Summary:

The Archer brothers have fiercely defended their land every since their father's death, running off anyone who dares to cross onto their property. As a ten-year-old girl, Meredith Hayes got caught in one of the traps on their land and teenaged Travis Archer rescued her and took her home, an act that spurs an infatuation on Meredith's part for the eldest Archer brother.
Twelve years later, the Archers are still fiercely protecting their land, so when Meredith overhears a plot to try to burn them out when they refuse to sell, she sets out to warn them of the impending danger--and stays to help them fight it. When she's injured and must stay under their protection, her uncle insists that one of the Archers will have to marry her. Although Meredith has long had feelings for Travis, when she catches the brothers drawing straws to determine who her husband will be (with Travis drawing the short straw), she agrees to marry him but isn't sure how to convince him that she's anything more than an obligation. Meanwhile, Travis isn't sure how to deal with a wife he never expected to have and how to keep his new wife and his brothers safe from those who are set on driving them off their land.

Review:

This is a thoroughly pleasing inspirational historical romance. Witemeyer is probably my favorite author of the genre, and her newest book didn't disappoint. Readers will love watching tough-on-the-outside but soft-on-the-inside Travis deal with a new bride and figuring out his own heart, and Meredith is a heroine worth cheering for, as she's more than willing to do her part to help her husband and her new brothers-in-law. Travis's brothers add a whole bunch of humor to the story, especially Crockett, who can't help but goad his brother a little as Travis is blundering along in his marriage (which is good, because it helps Travis figure out his feelings).

It was interesting to me that this seemed to have less spiritual content than Witemeyer's other books; there are a couple of instances of Meredith and Travis praying a little for guidance, but it wasn't necessarily a dominant theme. The book is still good and satisfying, but I also wouldn't have minded a little bit more of a glimpse of their spirituality. Sometimes it felt like the main focus of the book was actually whether or not they'd ever consummate their marriage, which, while fitting with the story of a marriage of convenience, could probably start to annoy some readers, even though it's tastefully done (and sometimes downright amusing).
The plot's probably somewhat predictable, but it still totally works--it's one readers are going to want to finish in one sitting and will leave them hoping that the other Archer brothers will get books of their own.

4 stars. Clean read.

The Fault in Our Stars

The Fault in Our Stars

By John Green

Dutton Books, 2012. 318 pgs. Teen fiction

Summary:

Hazel has had cancer for several years; for her, "terminal illness" is a way of life. Although she is on a medication that is prolonging her life, she knows that death will come for her sooner rather than later, and she worries about how that will affect her parents and those around her. And when she meets Augustus Waters, a cancer survivor, she contemplates her mortality even more, not wanting to be start a relationship with him knowing that it'll only be a matter of time before her death hurts him. Yet, as they spend time together, and as he helps her fulfill a life-long quest, they both unforgettable lessons about life and love.

Review:

After experiencing nothing but unmitigated loathing for Looking for Alaska, I was reluctant to ever read another book by John Green again. (I'm not saying he's not a good author, but he's not necessarily a good author for ME, so please don't be offended if you personally love him and everything he's ever written.) So, it took me a couple of times of checking this book out from the library before I actually opened it up and read it. And then I took the plunge, and I'm quite happy to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love (most of the time) the witty banter between Hazel and Augustus. I love the exploration of the meaning of life and love and how you deal with them in the very-present threat of death. This book was way better than I expected--and way better than most books I've read this year. It's beautiful and haunting and sweet and funny and sad, and I'm glad that I finally convinced myself to crack the cover.

4.5 stars. Some language, sex, and crude humor (but not an overwhelming amount).

Prodigy

Prodigy

By Marie Lu

Putnam, 2013. 384 pgs. Teen fiction (I read the ARC)

Summary:

Day and June have escaped from the Republic soldiers and make their way to join the Patriots; although they aren't entirely certain that they want to work with the Patriots, they figure joining them is the only way to get Day the medical attention that he needs and to try to get his little brother out of the hands to the Republic. After declaring their allegiance to the Patriots, they're told what their new assignments are: June is to return to the Republic and win the trust of the new Elector, Anden, by telling him of a plot against his life, all the while leading him into the true plot, where Day will assassinate him. As they settle into their responsibilities, both Day and June wonder if they're doing right thing, if assassination is really the right answer, and if they can trust anyone--including each other.

Review:

This sequel to Legend should have fans of the series frustrated, in that GOOD way that means the author has gotten you all emotionally invested in a book and taken characters (and by extension, readers), to somewhere they needed to go, even if it's painful. There's going to be a LOT of yelling, frustration, exclamations of disbelief, etc. as readers suffer through the last couple of chapters of this book and realize that they're going to have to wait a long time for any sort of resolution. That's not a bad thing, though--other than the fact that it's quite possible that the ending is going to leave readers crying or having panic attacks. 

There were a couple things I didn't necessarily like about book: for starters, Day and June's relationship. It seemed liked there's supposed to be this magnetic, hot attraction...but it felt forced sometimes. The emotion just seemed to be lacking sometimes. I was actually somewhat more intrigued by the developing love triangles (yes, plural--both Day and June have someone else who is interested in them, and who they could possibly develop feelings for) than the relationship between Day and June, for a lot of the book. Not all of it...but a lot of it. Also, perhaps a small note, and something that could probably be easily corrected in the final edition, but there seemed to be an over usage of parenthesis. Now, obviously, I'm a fan of them myself, but I have to say if the reader starts noticing how often you're using parenthesis, you're probably using them too often. What's the big deal, you ask? Well, I think it made the writing awkward; it seemed weak. A few parenthesis here and there is fine, but when you have several in a row, that can be a warning sign, and in this case, I think was indicative of Lu not always knowing how to incorporate descriptive details and internal dialogue into the rest of the sentence or paragraph. Unfortunately, that can jolt the reader out of the flow of the book, and I hope there's some revision to address that problem before the actual publication of the book.

Anyway, parenthesis aside, it's still an engaging book, with a good plot twists and a believably bad government. We get a look a really interesting new character (the new elector), and I'm excited to see what happens in the third book.

4 stars. A little bit of language and some making out.

Rebel Fire

Rebel Fire

By Andy Lane

Farrar Straus Giroux, 2011.343 pgs. Teen fiction

Summary:

Sherlock Holmes has enjoyed the tutelage of American Amyus Crowe, and he knows that Crowe has secrets in his past, but he didn't realize that Crowe is a colleague of the Pinkteron agency and has come to England to find John Wilkes Booth, who, although thought to have died in a fire, is alive (although not necessarily well). Sherlock can't resist investigating, but his initial delving leads to his friend Matty begin captured by Booth's associates. Soon, Sherlock, Amyus, and Virginia (Amyus's daughter) find themselves chasing Matty's captors across the Atlantic Ocean, trying to find Matty and figure out what the  Confederates are planning now, before it's too late.

Review:

Adding a conspiracy involving John Wilkes Booth brought an interesting twist to this series. I like how readers have the chance to guess along with Sherlock what is going on. This book took a darker turn than Death Cloud did, with Sherlock being responsible for the deaths of other people (in self-defense), and there was something about it that I didn't like quite as much as Death Cloud, but I still enjoyed it. This is a fun series for mystery fans and those who like a good dose of logical thinking.

4 stars. Maybe a little bit of language, but I don't remember for sure...

Head in the Clouds

Head in the Clouds 

By Karen Witemeyer

Bethany House, 2010. 366 pgs. Romance

Summary:

Adelaide Proctor enjoys her work as a schoolteacher, but she can't curb her dreams of marriage and a family, so when her beau, a traveling salesman who comes to town every so often, announces that he's taking a different job and won't be traveling anymore but will be working out of Fort Worth, Adelaide follows her heart--or her imagination, at least--and goes to Fort Worth to find him...which she does, but she also finds his wife and child. Sufficiently humbled and not knowing what to do, she prays for help and tries to follow the Lord's guidance. Led to a newspaper ad for a governess, she is offered a position by Gideon Westcott, a privileged British nobleman turned Texas sheep farmer who needs a governess for Isabella, the child entrusted to his care when her mother passed away. While Adelaide and Gideon quickly find their feelings for each other growing, they also find their concern for Isabella growing as they realize that her money-hungry uncle will do anything to get her--and her inheritance--back. 

Review:

I enjoy a good historical romance, and this was no exception. Although the plot is predictable, readers will still enjoy seeing how Adelaide and Gideon's romance blossoms and Adelaide's journey of faith as she has to learn about following the Lord instead of just plowing ahead with her own path. I didn't like this one quite as much as Witemeyer's To Win Her Heart, but it's a still a good choice for fans of inspirational romances.

3.5 stars. Clean read.

Now

Now

By Morris Gleitzman

Henry Holt, 2012. 184 pgs. Middle grade/teen fiction

Summary: 

Zelda has recently been sent to live with her grandfather, Felix, while her parents, both doctors, go to Darfur to offer their medical expertise there. Zelda was named for Felix's best friend, who died as a young girl in the Holocaust. Now Zelda-the-granddaughter is trying to be as brave as her namesake and to bring happiness into her grandfather's life. However, she comes to realize that Felix's story and his emotions are still very much influenced by the first Zelda, and both Felix and granddaughter Zelda find themselves facing the past in order to have a future.

 Review:

This follow-up book to Once and Then is just as haunting as the others; it has the same elements of hope and hurt and loss and love that make the others utterly unforgettable. Having fallen so much in love with Felix in the other books, which are from his point of view as a child, I was a little worried to switch narrators now, but I loved granddaughter Zelda, too. Gleitzman captures the complexity and simplicity of childhood beautifully, showing that innocent way of looking at life juxtaposed with insights and thoughts that adults often never manage to come up with. I really liked how he gave readers the chance to see how 70 years later, Felix still had a lot of damage and also related that to Zelda's present as she's being bullied. There are lot of books about the Holocaust out there, but I think this series is the cream of the crop. With unforgettable narrators, the pure voices of children facing the hardships of life, these books are simply a work of art that will reach inside your soul and touch you in a way that only a few books can.

5 stars (for the whole series). Clean read.

Shadow and Bone

Shadow and Bone

By Leigh Bardugo

Henry Holt, 2012. 358 pgs. Teen fiction

Summary:

Alina and Mal were orphans, raised together after their parents fell victim in the constant border wars in Ravka. Now they are in the army, Mal as an expert tracker, and Alina as a mediocre mapmaker, and their friendship isn't what it used to be. As they set of into the Unsea, or the Shadow Fold, a dark expense that divides their country and where volcra prey on humans, the danger they are in forces of reaction in Alina that sets their whole world spinning and catching the attention of even the Darkling, the head of the magical Grisha. Although Alina doesn't believe she has any power, she is taken to Os Alta, the capital, to train her special gift. As her distance from Mal grows quite literally, she finds herself pulled into a more complex situation than she ever expected and must find if the light within her is strong enough to combat all the powers of darkness.

Review:

Holy cow. Talk about intense and gripping book! I think I'm worn out from reading it, but mostly in a good way. (Toward the end, I think a lot of the evil and darkness in the world started to be a little too heavy for me, but that could also be because I got up in the middle of the night to sneak in a few more chapters and am just tired.) When I picked the book up, I wasn't really sure if I was that interested in it, but as soon as I started the book, I was hooked. Having finished it, I can't say I absolutely loved it, but I can say it was captivating. I think fantasy fans will love the chance to explore an entirely different world. Alina is a complex character and her journey to figure out her own strength--and her own heart--will resonate with readers. Overall, I think it has a lot to offer, but there is something draining about it, too, as you get so swept into the book and while there's a semi-happy ending, you also know that there's going to be a whole lot of darkness in the next book in the series (and probably the third, too), before there can be light.

4 stars. Some language and a little sensuality (but no actual sex).

Keep Holding On

Keep Holding On

By Susane Colasanti

Viking, 2012. 202 pgs.  Teen fiction

Summary:

Noelle's entire life is pretty much miserable. With her mother working a minimum wage  job, they're living on food stamps and barely able to pay their rent, never have enough to eat, and can't afford the sort of clothes that the rest of the kids at Noelle's school can afford. Her mother constantly complains about how Noelle ruined her life, and the kids at school aren't any better, having dropped her when her family's financial troubles started. For years, she's been bullied and teased, with only one friend standing by her. Now her secret crush Julian seems to be interested in her, but Noelle doesn't think she's good enough for him and is content to keep making out with her "boyfriend" Matt, who refuses to be seen in public with her. However, when tragedy strikes, Noelle decides enough is enough.

Review:

Colasanti has tackled an important topic here and this book is one that both those who are being bullied and those who do the bullying should read. She takes readers inside the pain and humiliation and hopelessness that Noelle, and anyone being bullied, feels, which would hopefully lead bullies to rethink their actions. But she also shows how Noelle chooses to rise above the bullying, which is an inspirational message for anyone being bullied.I thought the romance angle was actually a little weak, since we didn't really see much of the developing relationship between Julian and Noelle, but I recommend putting this one in the hands of just about any teen that you could get to read it.

4 stars. Some language, but it's not excessive. Also some making out, and a reference to if a guy ever got under Noelle's clothes to see her bra.

Rachel's Secret

Rachel's Secret

By Shelly Sanders

Second Story Press, 2012. 248 pgs. Young Adult

Summary:

Rachel is a Jewish girl living in Russia in 1903. When her Christian friend Mikhail is killed, there's an uproar in the community, with many of Christians claiming that the Jews were responsible for the murder in order to use the blood in their rituals. Rachel, who actually saw the murder and knows who is guilty, is terrified that if she comes forward, she and her family will all be at risk. As anti-Jewish sentiments ran wild in their city, Rachel forms an unlikely friendship with Sergei, a Christian boy whose father, chief of police, seems content to let violence erupt against the Jews.

Review:

Based on actual events, this is a worthy piece of historical fiction as it shows an important piece of history, as well as delivering messages about prejudice, propaganda, and friendship. Sometimes the writing seemed somewhat awkward, such as in a scene where Sergei lectures his father about doing nothing to do stop the pogrom, but overall, it's one that any conscientious reader looking to learn more about history should read. It's probably not a story many readers know a lot about, so it's definitely a worthwhile read.

4 stars. Clean read as far as language and sexuality, but there is some brutality as the Jews are beaten and murdered.

Applewhites at Wit's End

Applewhites at Wit's End

By Stephanie S. Tolan

Harper, 2012. 253 pgs. Middle Grade/Teen fiction

Summary:

The crazy Applewhite family, full of artists and originals (except for E.D., the responsible, organized, non-creative daughter), is in danger of losing their home, Wit's End, a former travel lodge turned home/personal studio for each family member. To prevent the financial crisis, E.D.'s father comes up with the idea to have a creative summer camp, with each family member, along with Jake, the former teen rebel who was placed at their home school after being kicked out everywhere else, teaching workshops and helping campers develop their inner artist. While the Applewhites band together and jump in, it might not be enough, as they soon find themselves dealing with cranky campers, threatening notes in the mailbox, and a government inspector roving the property. Will they be able to keep their home?

Review:

Although this is the sequel to Surviving the Applewhites, I think you could get the gist of the story without having read the first book. The Applewhites are funny and readers will want to join in the scheming as they try to save their home and learn to appreciate each other a little more. A good choice for tweens.

4 stars. Clean read.

City Dog, Country Frog

City Dog, Country Frog

By Mo Willems and Jon J. Muth

Hyperion Books for Children, 2010. 1 vol. (unpaged). Picture book

Summary:

In the springtime, Country Frog meets City Dog and shows him how to play frog games. In the summer, City Dog teaches Country Frog to play dog games. In the fall, Country Frog is too tired to play so instead they just remember. In the winter, City Dog can't find Country Frog. In the springtime, City Dog is waiting sadly for Country Frog when Country Chipmunk shows up

Review:

AH! I don't like sad books! And even though this captures the truth of life--that sometimes people leave or die or whatever and then you have to learn to recover from it--it still made me plenty sad. It's a sweet story of friendship, and the pictures are beautiful...but I'm still upset that it's a sad book :(

4.5 stars. Clean read.

Code Name Verity

Code Name Verity

By Elizabeth Wein

Hyperion, 2012. 343 pgs. Teen fiction

Summary:

"Verity," a Scottish girl who works as a spy for the British, has been caught by the Gestapo in France, and after being tortured, has begun to reveal the secret she promised she wouldn't tell, giving them an elaborate written confession. However, she details more than just her entry into France; slowly, she reveals the story of how she met Maddie, a pilot whose papers had with her when she was captured, detailing their friendship and how Maddie came to fly for the British.

Review:

This book is hard to describe without giving away some critical details. It's a story of war, and friendship, and heartbreak. I sometimes got a little frustrated with all the talking about planes and wished that the story just moved forward. It can also be hard to read between the lines sometimes to figure out what really matters (and, sometimes, who is who, since the characters have code names or are referred to by nicknames or description, rather than actual names)--and, if you're a naive reader and don't figure out quickly that Verity is an intentionally unreliable narrator, you could find yourself sympathizing with but not respecting her. This is definitely thought-provoking, and sad, and unique. It's not an easy read, but it's a worthwhile one. Be prepared to cry or feel like the wind is knocked out of you.

4 stars. Some vulgar comments and torture.

The Invaders

The Invaders

By John Flanagan

Philomel, 2012. 429 pgs. Young Adult

Summary:

In the second book of the Brotherband series, Hal and his crew, the Herons, have set out after the ruthless pirate Zavac, who stole the Skandians' treasured artifact, the Andomal. If they can get the artifact back, they may actually be able to redeem themselves and show their faces in Skandia again some day. While the boys have successfully completed their brotherband training, they are still young and need to learn how to work together, use their skills and ingenuity, and hope luck is on their side as they hunt down the pirates. However, things become even more complicated when the pirates take to land when they find out about a secret emerald mine, killing the villagers who stand in their way. The Herons and the villagers, and a few Skandians sent to help, must defeat the pirates or risk losing everything.

Review:

The more I read of John Flanagan, the more I like him. I didn't always care about the details of the battles or the ship terms, but the book still moved really quickly, and you just can't help but love the characters, from smart inventor Will to gruff old seaman Thorn to loyal best friend Stig and so many other characters. I also liked the fact that we perhaps have a hint of romance a little sooner than we did in the Ranger's Apprentice series. Nothing actually happened in this book, but a female character, Lydia, was introduced and both Hal and Stig are drawn to her but also want to maintain their friendship. This is an easy recommendation--fans of adventure, humor, and general awesomeness should definitely check out this series.

5 stars. Clean read...you know, other than the fact that Thorn doesn't bathe that often ;)

Daughter of Smoke and Bone

Daughter of Smoke and Bone

By Laini Taylor

Little, Brown, 2011. 418 pgs. Teen fiction

Summary:

Karou is not exactly your average teenager. She goes to an art school in Prague, but her artwork, sketches of monsters that everyone assumes are just from her imagination, is actually a reflection of the only family she has ever known. Brimstone, a chimaera wishmonger who collects teeth, has raised her from the time she was a child, and while she sometimes resents that he won't explain who Karou is or what exactly he does with those teeth. Akivia is an angel soldier whose job pits him against the chimaera, but when his latest mission brings him into contact with Karou, who while seemingly human also has traits of the chimaera, he sets out to find out who she is. Their attraction is almost instantaneous, but their worlds have pitted them against each other.

Review:

This one started out a little slow for me, probably because I'm impatient with world-building and would have liked at least a few answers about what a chimaerae even is a little earlier in the book, but once Karou and Akivia run into each other, things picked up really quickly and the book was completely gripping from that point on. I couldn't wait to see how things would play out, and when the book ended, I definitely wasn't ready for it to be over and now am eagerly awaiting the sequel. One thing that did strike me partway through the novel was that I wasn't sure why the author decided to make this a teen novel. She could just as easily have made Karou a twenty-something college art student...and that might have made it slightly less awkward when she and Akivia are attracted to each other, since he's at least half a century old. (Okay, I know, it's been done in Twilight...and I suppose some people are okay with that, but to me, it's kinda odd.)

4 stars. With a fair amount of sex and sexual tension, some language and violence, and the thematic material (of a war between the seraphs and the chimaera), this isn't one for younger readers.

I listened to the audiobook and though the narrator was very engaging.

Scarlet

Scarlet

By A.C. Gaughen

Walker & Co., 2012. 292 pgs. Teen fiction

Summary:

Will Scarlet is Robin Hood's right-hand man, an expert thief, who snatches food and riches to help the people from starving or being dragged off to prison as the sheriff of Nottingham subjects them to extreme taxation. He is also an expert knife-thrower and can sneak in and out of just about anywhere without being seen. But he is really a she, and she has a past that she doesn't want anyone to know about. While Robin and the other members of their small band--John Little and Much--know she's a girl, they don't know what Scarlet is hiding from. Then Guy of Gisbourne, the infamous thief catcher, is hired by the sheriff to find Robin and his band, and Scarlet's face comes back to haunt her. As she struggles with her past, she also must decide what she wants for her future, as John Little has turned his eye on her and Robin has a way of unsettling her like no one else can.

Review:

With lots of action, a quick-moving plot, and a love triangle, this retelling of the Robin Hood legend is fun from start to finish. Readers will probably be able to guess early on who Scarlet really is, but that doesn't detract from the unfolding of the additional details about who she is and what she has experienced. There's kind of a lot of emotional baggage--both Scarlet and Robin are tormented by their pasts and feel they've failed everyone around them--but it isn't dumped on readers all at once; there's plenty of action to break it up as the outlaws snatch riches and orchestrate rescues and all sorts of law-breaking for the sake of the people they love.

This is one that will leave readers hoping there's a sequel, because they won't be ready to say good-bye to Scarlet, Robin, or the rest of the characters.

Some violence and a little bit of language, but nothing too bad.

4.5 stars.

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking

By Susan Cain

Crown, 2012. 11 hours or 333 pgs. Adult Nonfiction

Summary:

Cain explains how U.S. culture favors extroverts, often ignoring the assets of introverts, who are dismissed as being shy and easily overlooked and simply because they are often not as loud, have their insights and skills go unacknowledged. However, Cain argues, with highly informative and interesting research, that the very skills that as so easily dismissed, such as thoughtful-thinking and autonomy, often are just what businesses, organizations, and individuals need to succeed. She shares stories of successful introverts (including Warren Buffet and Steve Wozniak) and how their success came because of, not in spite of, their introvertedness.

Review:

This book is AWESOME! It has so many fascinating topics of discussion, from how the Harvard Business school model has affected American culture and even education for kids, how Evangelicalism by nature is extroverted and can cause frustration in introverts who want to be a part of the faith, and the difference between American emphasis on extroversion and Asian emphasis on introversion. It was all very thought-provoking and written in a very engaging style.

For those who are introverted, this book is liberating, as it reassures us that we are not socially inept, of less worth than introverts, and doomed to a lifetime of being overlooked. Instead, Cain encourages embracing our particular skills to achieve success. For extroverts, this book would be just as valuable, as it explains the personalities of 1/3 to 1/2 of the population. It would be particularly helpful to business managers, as they might learn not to overlook the introverts who could truly benefit their organizations, or force them into work styles that aren't beneficial to them. I personally think this should be required reading for just about everyone.

I listened to the sound recording; Kathe Mazur did a great job as narrator.

5 stars. A little bit of language, but not enough that anyone should think it outweighs the many merits of the book.

The Drowned Cities

The Drowned Cities

By Paolo Bacigalupi

Little, Brown, and Company,2012. 436 pgs. Teen fiction (I read the ARC)

Summary:

In a future U.S., Mahlia is a castoff, the daughter of a Chinese peacekeeper who left her and her mother (a Drowned Cities resident) behind when the Chinese gave up their attempts to stop the various warlord groups from trying to wipe each other out. Mahlia has found refuge with a doctor in a village away from the Drowned Cities, but as a castoff, she's never been accepted by the rest of the villagers. Her one friend, Mouse, is a boy who has been orphaned by the war. When the two discover Tool, a wounded augment (a half-man, half-animal designed for war and killing), who is being hunted by a group of soldiers, Mahlia and Mouse are caught in the middle. As the bloodthirsty soldiers wreak havoc on the land and even force Mouse into their army, Mahlia must convince Tool to help her save her friend, even though the odds of success are essentially impossible.

Review:

There is a lot of blood, gore, and violence in this book, made all the more heart-rending by the fact that these are kids, not adults, who are fighting each other and trying to survive. Because of that, it's not an easy book to read, and some readers probably won't be able to stomach it. The violence continues pretty much to the very end, and while there's an element of hope at the end, I didn't quite feel like there was enough of an ending. This would be a good discussion book, as readers could delve into such topics as child soldiers and whether or not redemption is possible, but it's not one that I'd necessarily recommend for any sort of pleasure reading. It's gripping but disturbing.

3.5 stars. Language and LOTS of violence.

Waiting

Waiting
By Carol Lynch Williams
Simon and Schuster Books For Young Readers, 2012. 335 pgs. Teen fiction

London and her older brother Zach were best friends, but then he died, and now, even several months later, she hasn't even begun to deal with it. Her father is busy, her mother will not even acknowledge London's presence, and no one has acknowledge how--or why--Zach's life is over. London has barely spoken to anyone for months, but when new girl Lili wants to strike up a friendship, and persists at it, and London's former boyfriend (and her brother's good friend) Taylor starts trying to spend time with her again, London starts to come to life a little bit again. However, she also starts to have feelings for Jesse, Lili's brother, and doesn't know how to start out all of the complicated feelings she has. And mixed up in all of this, London, the daughter of a missionary, questions her faith.

This novel in verse kinda has a lot going on, but Williams does it well. I was a little impatient with the unraveling of what happened to Zach, and why London feels so guilty about it (and actually 2/3 of the way through, wondered if I had missed something), but after sticking it out to the end, it did work out pretty well.

There's some discussion of teen sex (not detailed) and a little bit of language (the milder variety), so it's not squeaky clean, but it's milder than a lot of teen books.

3.5 stars.

Arabella

Arabella
By Georgette Heyer
Sourcebooks Casablanca, 1949. 312 pgs. Romance

Arabella Tallant isn't a likely candidate for an advantageous marriage; her parson father has eight children and little money to support them. Still, when she is given the opportunity to stay with her godmother in London and be presented to society, she (and her family) can't help but hope she'll be able to marry well, and perhaps prepare the way for her sisters to do so as well. En route to London, though, her borrowed carriage breaks down, and she seeks temporary shelter from the rain at a nearby home--the home, as it turns out, of Mr. Robert Beaumaris, the Nonparelil of good society. Wealthy beyond belief, Mr. Beaumaris is used to the adoration of women, and Arabella overhears him telling a friend that she's undoubtedly a fortune hunter, she impetuously declares herself to be an heiress. From that moment, Arabella's fame spreads and every man in London is after the hand of the young "heiress". Mr. Beaumaris, at first thinking only to make a game of Arabella, can't help but have a change of heart as he glimpses the woman beneath the society mask. And Arabella, despite her assertions to not care a whit for the Nonparelil, finds that her invented fortune could stand between her and true love.

This is a fun story but at times, it got bogged down by the slang of the day and descriptions. I trust Heyer that she got it right, but for someone who isn't quite so versed in the language (and, okay, doesn't care that much about setting), it slowed down the story, and actually gave us a little less time with the characters. Satisfying overall, and probably something I would have enjoyed more if I'd mentally prepared for a slower read rather than a quicker one.

3.5 stars. Clean read.

The Glass Swallow

The Glass Swallow
By Julia Golding
Marshall Cavendish, 2011. 304 pgs. Teen fiction

Torrent Glassmaker has gone against guild rules by secretly fostering his daughter Rain's talent as a glassmaker, a job forbidden to a woman in Holt. Her secret talents have brought the family renown that has them recommend as the people for the job when ambassadors arrive from Magharna looking for craftsmen to work on the Master's summer palace. Rain can't openly acknowledge her skills but fakes a betrothal to her cousin in order to accompany him to this foreign land. However, when the ambassador's party is attacked by bandits and Rain is the only survivor, she must figure out how to get out of a hostile country and make her way back home.

Peri, a falconer, has grown up in Magharna, a country rigidly divided by a class system where people of the higher classes can't even speak to those in classes beneath them (nor do they want to). Peri is a scavenger, the lowest of the low, and, because he is unclean, is forbidden to even enter the city. Although he has learned to calm his emotions and just enjoy his work with his falcons, when he rescues Rain from bandits, his whole world gets turned upside down, and when there uprisings in the city, both Rain and Peri must figure out what they'll do to survive.

This book is a companion book to Dragonfly (takes place about 30 years later and you really don't need to have read the first book to understand the second), and while I loved Dragonfly, I only liked this book. The plot line is great; I like the way it weaves in the stained glass windows and Peri's and Rain's dilemmas. However, there were times when the writing felt awkward and more like "telling" than "showing." I found that to be particularly annoying when it happened during the romantic scenes--really, who wants to read a clumsy flirtation? (Unless it's intentionally clumsy, of course, but in this case, I don't think it was intentional.) I'd still recommend it for anyone looking for a clean fantasy that takes them to an imagined world in the past...but for those of you who really enjoyed Dragonfly, just be warned that this one isn't as good.

3.5 stars. Clean read.

The Notebook series

The Indigo Notebook
By Laura Resau
Delacorte Press, 2009. 324 pgs. Teen fiction

Fifteen-year-old Zeeta has lived all over the world, thanks to her free-spirited mother, who constantly moves them around the globe. When they move to Ecuador, Zeeta, who has always wished for a normal life, finds that she just might get it after all: her mother meets an American man, who specializes in organization, and seems to be settling down. Meanwhile, Zeeta meets a guy of her own: Wendall, a teenager from the U.S. who was adopted as a baby and has come to Ecuador to find his birth parents. As Zeeta helps him on his search, she is also searching to discover what it is that she really wants.

An interesting look at another culture, this book also provides readers with adventure, family issues, and a bit of romance. This highly enjoyable book is the first in a series, and I look forward to reading more. A little bit of language, but overall fairly clean.

The Ruby Notebook
By Laura Resau
Delacorte Press, 2010. 373 pgs. YTeen

Sixteen-year-old Zeeta is living in France, the 16th country she and her flighty mother have lived in, which is something Zeeta deals with but also can't help resenting sometimes, as she's forced to leave behind friends, and she feels, even pieces of herself . This time should be different, though, because Zeeta's boyfriend Wendell is supposed to come to study art for two months, and Zeeta can't wait to be with him. However, before he gets there, she meets Jean-Claude, who sparks her interest even though she doesn't want him to, someone from her past begins slipping notes and gifts into her bag, and an elderly couple wants her to find a fountain of youth they believe is hidden in their town. Soon, Zeeta is on a quest not to find the water and the mysterious gift-giver but also to find herself.

This book started out a little slow for me, but once it got going, I really enjoyed Zeeta's quest, as well as her relationship struggles, and the symbolism woven into the book. It's more literary than a lot of teen literature but also still very accessible to readers. It's partially an introduction to a foreign culture, partially an invitation to be moved by characters and their journey, and completely lovely.

The Jade Notebook
By Laura Resau
Delacorte Press, 2012. 365 pgs. Teen fiction

After seventeen countries in seventeen years, Zeeta has finally found a place that feels like home to her in Mazunte, Mexico, which is also where Zeeta thinks her long-lost father might be from, and she's determined to find him . She and her flighty mother are managing cabanas and really feel like that this could be the place for them. Zeeta's boyfriend Wendell is there studying the sea turtles native to the area and everything seems to be going well, at first. But then they find out that the land they're living on is supposedly cursed, Wendell starts having visions of danger, and Zeeta finds out some things about her father that make her wonder what kind of person he really is. To make matters worse, poachers are stealing the eggs that the turtles are laying and no one will help Wendell and Zeeta save the turtles.

In the third and final (I think--I didn't actually read that anywhere, but this book had an epilogue that made it feel more "done" than the other books) book in the series, readers once again get to explore a new country. The descriptions of the turtles, the local people, and the food will make readers want to pack their bags and head to Mexico. I really enjoyed the mysteries wrapped up in the story--who the poachers are, who they can trust, and what's the truth about Zeeta's father--and how things played out. This is a satisfying series that probably doesn't get read enough.

Side note on this one: In many respects., I would consider this series to be realistic fiction...except for the fact that Wendell has these visions. I don't particularly believe in visions or ESP or anything like that. So, to me, that puts a fantastical element into the story. However, I know that there are those who do believe in these sorts of things--and quite often in indigenous cultures, this is something they firmly believe in, so to them, it's a reality. So where I see fantasy, they see reality...and I suppose the appropriate action then is to classify the book as realistic fiction...but I'm interested in what other people think about that. Would you classify it as realistic fiction?

4 stars. Apparently when I read the first book, I noticed some minor language but I don't remember it now. I didn't notice any in the third book. Zeeta and Wendell do have a fairly physical relationship (kissing a lot, laying down together), but there wasn't anything explicit or even anything that made me entirely certain they were having sex, although it could possibly be interpreted that way.

Kane Chronicles

I'd previously reviewed the first book in the series, but since I just read the third book, I'm going to go ahead and put all three on here.

The Red Pyramid
By Rick Riordan
Disney/Hyperion Books, 2010. 516 pgs. Middle Grade/Teen fiction

Carter Kane has spent his life being dragged around the world by his father, Dr. Julius Kane, a famous Egyptologist. Meanwhile, his younger sister, Sadie, has lived with their grandparents in England. However, when Carter and his dad go to visit Sadie at Christmas, their lives change completely. Their father takes them to a museum where he tries to summon an Egyptian god. However, he releases five trapped gods, including Set, who sets out to wreak havoc on the world and traps Julius inside Osiris' coffin. Carter and Sadie learn that they are actually powerful descendants of ancient pharoahs, and it becomes their responsibility to restore order to the world--and rescue their dad.

The first book in the Kane Chronicles, this book was a somewhat darker tone than the author's Percy Jackson series, and many readers will likely be less familiar with the Egyptian mythology of this series than the Greek mythology of the Percy Jackson series. However, the action and adventure are still well-written; the book is fast-paced, and both spunky Sadie and somewhat more reserved Carter are interesting characters and I look forward to watching their development in the upcoming books.

The Throne of Fire
By Rick Riordan
Disney/Hyperion Books, 2011. 452 pgs. Young Adult

In book 2 of the Kane Chronicles, Sadie and Carter Kane have 5 days to save the world. Apophis, the god of Chaos, who has been bound for many years, is struggling to get free and even has magicians working to help him. Sadie and Carter have to locate the pieces of the scroll of Ra, the sun god, and use the spells contained in them to locate and revive him in order to balance out Apophis. At the same time, Carter is determined to find Zia, who was hidden somewhere by the world's most powerful magician before he died, and Sadie is dealing with her feelings for Anubis, an Egyptian god, and Walt, one of the Kanes' magical trainees, who seems to be hiding something from them.




The Serpent's Shadow
By Rick Riordan
Disney/Hyperion, 2012. 406 pgs. Young Adult

Carter and Sadie Kane have only a few days to save the world from Chaos. Apophis, the god of Chaos, is determined to wipe out the entire world. He has already killed or converted many magicians to his side, leaving Carter, Sadie, and their young magicians-in-training to try to save the world. The only option open to them is to trust an evil dead magician to lead them to a secret spell that will allow them to trap Apophis's shadow and then execrate the god. As if that's not enough, they need the help of the gods, particularly Ra, the senile old sun god, who might not be ready in time. With the fate of the world in their hands, Carter and Sadie face their most dangerous quest yet.


I have to say, Rick Riordan's books seem to be very similar--kid finds out he/she has magic powers, kid has to battle several demons/evil forces, kid ultimately triumphs. It gets a little repetitive, and yet, I think it still pulls in a lot of readers. And, for some readers, that can actually be a comforting thing--because they can jump into the story, supported by the familiar structure, and read a long book and feel like they've accomplished something. For some readers, that might get a little old, but most readers will still have fun following sarcastic Sadie and more serious Carter on their adventures. As can be expected from Rick Riordan, this book is thrilling good fun. Readers will be swept along with Sadie and Carter as they move, top-speed, to try to save the world. There's a dash of romance, a fair dose of humor, and extra helpings of action and adventure.
I have a harder time following this series than Riordan's other series, but that's probably because I'm not as familiar with the Egyptian gods as the Greek ones. Consequently, I probably don't like it as much as his other books--but I still like it plenty and am happy to recommend it to anyone looking for a super fun series.