Arclight

Arclight by Josin L. McQuein
Publication Date 4/23/2013

Teen, 13+

ARC used for review.

Personal Ranking 3.5 out of 5

No one is safe when the lights go out. 

THE FIRST RULE OF ARCLIGHT: Light is safety. Light is life. No one is supposed to survive the dark, only Marina did, but at the loss of some lives and all her memories. Other than Anne-Marie, her only friend, her classmates hate and fear her. She, and only she has survived the dark and the Fade. Then, one night, after a security breach, alliances and rules seem to start changing all around them. When Marina and some of her peers take down a Fade, they begin to question if what they have been told is really the truth. What happens when the reality you think you live in, is only half of the story? Sometimes you have to step into the dark before you can see what is really in the light.

What a story from a new, fresh voice. I know a lot of reviewers say that "they just couldn't put it down," but it is so true. From the beginning, I was captivated and there are so many twists and turns that you really feel the frustration that Marina and the rest of her peers feel at being lied to and not knowing the truth. One harsh lesson that the adults try to teach them is that sometimes knowing the truth is worse than not knowing. But, teens are stronger than you think, they can handle the truth. What they can't handle is being blatantly lied to. In a period of all of these post-apocolyptic world stories, this one will leave you wanting more.

Escape Theory

Escape Theory: a Keaton School Novel by Margaux Froley

Publication Date 3/12/2013

Teen, 14+

ARC used for review.

Personal Ranking 3.5 out of 5

Welcome to the Keaton School 

One crazy night can change your life. No one knows just how true that is more than Devon and Hutch, who met as freshman at the Keaton boarding school. Then after just one night of pancakes, poetry and promises, they have a connection that no one even knows about. Hutch was a legacy student, with a charmed life and loads of friends. Now, two years later at the beginning of their junior year, Hutch's life is cut short as the result of a suspected suicide. As if Hutch's death turning her world upside down wasn't bad enough, Devon is not the only participant in the school's new Peer Counseling program. Now, after Hutch's death, her first assignment in the program becomes providing support for Hutch's closest friends and trying to help them acknowledge their own demons. But, something doesn't feel right, and Devon finds herself deeper into the secret underworld of Keaton while she becomes obsessed with proving that the real Hutch was the boy she shared that one crazy night with two years ago.



I have read so many mysteries lately that I thought I knew just who would betray who and how the story would end. I thought I knew, but I had no idea.

Now I am left with questions, like why did Devon and Hutch never spent time together again after those Nutter Butter pancakes? (What are the best tips for mastering the art of Nutter Butter pancakes.) Even though I didn't expect to really like this book, I ended up blown away by the twists and turns. (And no, no spoilers.  If I was stunned, I want you to be too!)  Devon was really able to help her peers, she gained their trust and kept at if even after being let go from the program. I am really excited to see what happens next in the second book of the Keaton School.

Panic

Panic by Sharon M. Draper

Publication Date 3/12/2013

Teen, 13+

ARC used for review.

Personal Ranking 4.5 out of 5

"All it takes is one moment, one bad decision,
for everything to change"

Diamond Landers has a good life. She lives with both of her parents, has great friends and is a talented dancer. At 15 years old, she has paid attention to all of the stranger danger lessons taught to her. But in one moment, too much temptation is dangled in front of her. He looks safe and professional, claiming he is new to the area he wants to introduce her to his daughter and her movie star friends who are all in town to addition for a movie. That is all it takes for her life to change forever. Now all her friends and family can do is wait, hope and pray for any news of Diamond and her safe return.

Wow! What an incredibly well written story that every teenage girl should read. I will definitely use this as a book club title with teens in addition to recommending it for the school's high school summer reading list. You can feel the panic setting in starting with the cover. Even though you can't fully understand the symbolism until you begin reading, it sets the tone perfectly.

Unfortunately, I have worked with too many young women who very easily could have ended up in any one of the situations shown in this story. One of the most important things about stories like this is that putting yourself in someone else's shoes, it makes you think about your past choices and how you would act in those situations. Panic shows the strengths and dangers of all different kinds of relationships and human interaction. While it didn't even really address the dangers of social media, you could talk about it during a discussion easily. All of the main characters take turns narrating different chapters, so you get to see multiple stories from their own point of view. The trade off is that they don't go into a lot of details. So even though what is going on is horrific, you are left to imagine the worst. So here at my branch, I would feel comfortable to recommend it to the middle school students as well.

the Nightmare Affair

The Nightmare Affair by Mindee Arnett
Arkwell Academy

 
Publication Date: March 5, 2013

Teen, Ages 13+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 4 out of 5

 

 

Nightmares may be scary, but they have feelings too

Dusty is still trying to adjust to her new life as a magickind. It doesn't help that her mother's reputation as a rule breaker is making it harder. Nightmares feed their magic by invading other people's dreams, which often involves also breaking into their houses. Being a Nightmare is hard enough, but when a Eli, a former classmate of hers is dreaming about a murder that just happens to be on campus of her new school things begin to get complicated. Not only is the murder at Arkwell Academy, but it turns out that it has just happened. Now Dusty and Eli have to work together to figure out the clues before anyone else gets hurt. But, things aren't always what they seem at Arkwell, and Dusty has to figure out just who she can trust, even if they just happen to be her mother.

What a fun ride! From start to finish, this was a fast, enjoyable read. The fun thing will all the paranormal tales out today, is that they each have their own, unique spin on tales that are familiar. Our heroine is a sixteen year old girl named Destiny, who prefers to be called Dusty, who just happens to be a Nightmare. But, because of her fractured relationship with her mom, and her late blossoming into her powers, she is untrained and not sure of anything besides the basics. Nightmares are rare, and other then her mom, she only knows of one other in the area. Unfortunately, her mom has a bit of a wild side and has given their kind a bit of a bad reputation. Even though it takes her almost the entire book to admit it, her mother's absence has given her some emotional scars. Coming to terms with her mom, will hopefully help her heal and let go of some of her anger. I kept thinking that this would make a great series. Thankfully, I read the author's bio where she mentioned that it would be! I am looking forward to my next visit to Arkwell Academy.

 

Who Done it? an Anthology

Who Done it? an Anthology Conducted by Jon Scieszka,
and YOU, the reader
 
Publication Date: February 12, 2013

Teen, Ages 12+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 3 out of 5

INVESTIGATION OF MURDER MOST FOUL
ALIBIS  BY AUTHORS WITH MOTIVES

A Serial Act of Criminal Literature to Benefit 826NYC

"You are invited to a gathering" read the invitation sent by Editor, Herman G. Mildew, to his clients. But Mr. Mildew is not only obsessed with cheese and pickles, but with being the most hated boss that ever existed. But when we arrive to the party, Mr. Mildew is dead and every author and illustrator present is a suspect. Now they each have to convince us of their alibi, when they each had desire and motive. It is up to us, the reader, to aide Jon Scieszka in his investigation. We must sort through the first-person accounts of over 80 of the best names in YA and children's fiction. Each one has a story to tell and something to hide. One which may prove that, in the end, they all did it!

 

I love a good mystery, especially a good murder mystery. When I was a young adult, there wasn't this wonderful genre of young adult literature. I seemed to have survived on Goosebumps, Sweet Valley High and Rita Mae Brown's Mrs. Murphy mysteries. But I digress.

 

This is just a fun read. And its for charity, 826NYC, "a nonprofit organization and superhero company that is dedicated to supporting students ages six to eighteen with their creative and expository writing skills, and helping teachers inspire their students to write."  Sounds like a worthy cause to me and with this much talent between one cover, you won't be disappointed. But "Who Done it?" you ask, really, it doesn't matter. But it wasn't me, I've never even met Mr. Mildew...

Scarlet

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
The Lunar Chronicles, Book 2

Publication Date: February 5, 2013

Teen, Ages 12+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 4 out of 5


 

 

 

"If this was her chance to decide who she was,
who she wanted to be,
then the first decision was an easy one."

 

Linh Cinder grew up a cyborg and a step-child in New Beijing, not sure of which one made her life worse then the other. But, after her step-mother donated her body to science, it is the doctor that discovers the reality of her being the lost Lunar Princess Selene that puts her in the most danger of all. Being the missing niece of Queen Levana only puts her in more danger as the Queen continues her pursuit of domination of the Earthern Union. Now, in prison, can she escape and reconnect with Dr. Erland?  A world away in France, Scarlet Benoit's grand-mere has been missing for two weeks and now the police have given up on looking for her. She meets a man named Wolf, who seems to know more then he says, but she can't ignore the attraction she feels. He agrees to take her to Paris, where her grand-mere is being held for a past she won't share. But it is not until trying to escape that Cinder and Scarlet's worlds collide and they realize just how much is at stake.

 

I loved Cinder and have been waiting, for what seems a very long time, for Scarlet! It did not disappoint. I don't even want to give too much away incase you haven't met Cinder, the little cyborg mechanic with a unknown past. This world and new reality that Marissa Meyer has envivisioned is amazing. To live in a world, after the 4th World War and fighting for your planet from an alien race that can manipulate your thoughts is terrifying and amazing. Enter this world, you will be glad you came.

 

The twists and turns in this one had me on the edge of my seat and the truth about both of their past's left me amazed. It is going to be a very long year waiting for Cress in 2014 and then Winter to conclude the chronicles in 2015.

 

 

Cinders and Sapphires

Cinders and Sapphires by Leila Rasheed
At Somerton, Book 1

Publication Date: January 22, 2013

Teen, Ages 12+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 3 out of 5







It is 1910 and the Earl of Westlake and his daughters, Ladies Ada and Georgiana, have spent the past decade in India where their father has been the lieutenant governor. Now, forced to return to their home, Somerton, in the wake of political scandal, the family has to adapt in more ways then one. The staff at Somerton are in a rush trying to ready the home for the Averley's arrival, but then news comes of a wedding and the Lord's new wife and her children. Rose, is trying to quickly learn the ropes as the new ladies' maid, but refuses to accept the advice she has been given to take advantage of her situation. Lady Ada feels the weight of her families troubles on her shoulders, but how can she choose between her dreams and ambitions and her family?


First I am so thankful to live in a time when I did not have to fight for my right to a good education and a voice just because I am a woman. Second, to have the freedom to marry who I want, for any old reason or just because I love him, should be celebrated.

Now all of that being said, diving into the world of Somerton was like being a fly on the wall during a good period soap opera. There were so many characters and and games played among them that I just got sucked in completely into their world. Above all, I found myself cheering for Ada and her desire to be with the one she loves and pursue an education at Oxford. Thankfully, At Somerton, will be a series, and I can't wait to see what Ada and her sister's are able to accomplish. There are so many rules to society and how you should be seen that it almost forces everyone to live a lie.

In many ways there are also traces of a Cinderella-like tale, with the sudden marriage and the evil stepmother and stepsister. Except, with the father still in the picture, even though his daughters are more naive, they keep besting the evil pair. Even the stepbrothers seem to be on their side. I have so many theories and questions, but I will be patient and sit back and see what happens next.

The Darkest Minds

The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken

Publication Date: December 18, 2012

Teen, Ages 12+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 4.5 out of 5


 

"They were never scared of the kids who might die,
or the empty spaces they would leave behind.
They were scared of us - the ones who lived."

Children are mysteriously dying all around the United States. But those who live are met with a much worse fate then death. Parents are afraid of their own children and turn them into the government. Most are carted off to camps claiming to rehabilitate them, but others are forced to run on their own with no adult support. It was Ruby's tenth birthday when her parents sent her away, and for six years she lived in one of the camps not really knowing what she truly was. When the truth comes out and she is presented the opportunity to run she takes it, but something doesn't feel right and she escapes. Not trusting any adult, Ruby ends up becoming the fourth member of a group of kids looking for a safe haven. Fighting for survival, they quickly learn that nothing is what it seems and the only ones they can trust are each other.

Totally mind blowing! By the end of Chapter 1 I was hooked, the only reasons I ever put it down was for sleep or surgery. The concept is just so amazing and utterly horrifying that it just stunned me. To be a young child and watch all of your classmates die, and then be taken away from your family because of how dangerous someone else is telling you that you are, to me is unthinkable. Yet, that is what is happening all around to these kids. I didn't know that this would turn into a series when I started, but I am glad that it will. I just have too many questions. For example, what on earth did they feed us or make happen so that children either started turning into, for lack of a better term, mutants or just dropping dead?  I am heartbroken over the ending though, I won't spoil it, but I know exactly one thing I would like to see happen by the end. I am apparently an incurable romantic.

I love the cover. I know that I normally don't discuss book covers since I feel like my yearbook background makes me a rather harsh critic, but this one for some reason is screaming at me to be mentioned. You know just from looking at it that this story isn't all rainbows and sunshine, but it just grabbed me. If I didn't have to actually work, I would have no problem reading all of the ARCs that cross my desk, but since I can't covers are important deciding factors on what books I prioritize. So, well done on this one. It is incredibly thought out, even if it takes you a while to grasp its whole meaning.

I could probably talk about this book for hours; about how well paced the plot was, my connection to the characters or just how lost I got in the story. But I won't, instead I want to mention how close to home the foursome's journey to East River was to me. I am a Virginia girl, and I spent my undergraduate days between Mary Baldwin College in Staunton as a freshman and the other three years at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, all the while driving home to Richmond along 81 and 64. At the end of Chapter 13, they are driving along 81 South, heading towards Roanoke and end up having to take the local roads through Harrisonburg. The Shenandoah Valley is exactly as she described it with breathtaking foliage and views from the highway. It is one of the many things I miss from living there. But the way she describes JMU, as a barren campus, closed to the world just broke my heart. It is one thing to get lost in this world, imagining how cold and empty it is. But nothing brought it into such sharp focus as trying to picture JMU without the friendly students that bring it to life every year. And no, that is not an exaggeration. JMU students are like no other; we hold open doors for the people behind us, smile at everyone and are committed it seems to every social cause.

To fans of the Hunger Games, like me, this is an excellent book to recommend. Ruby is just as damaged and kick-ass, and which makes her incredibly strong with the desire to protect those she loves. They are both incredibly strong and powerful women. Just incredible, and I am looking forward to the next.

Cleopatra Ascending

Cleopatra Ascending
by Maureen Lipinski
Shadow's Edge Series, book 2

Publication Date: January 8, 2013

Teen, Ages 12+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 3 out of 5

Rhea has grown up surrounded by magic. The third youngest of four sisters; who all just happen to be gifted. One is a witch, one a shaman, and the baby sister is a muse. Rhea is the only one without a gift. Unless you count just happening to be the reincarnated Egyptian Queen Cleopatra. Even though she knows she is special and an important part of her family, she has always just felt a little bit like an outsider. Until her 16th birthday, when her past becomes a part of her future. Having at first what she thinks are dreams, her visions of Cleopatra's past start telling a different version of history, and then a secret society founded by Marc Anthony shows up on her doorstep to protect her. Rhea must travel with them to Egypt, learn the queen's history and magic and hopefully prevent the evil Octavians from accessing the magic that only she can protect.

I am a huge fan of mythology. All kinds, Roman, Greek and especially Egyptian. It is one of the many reason why Rick Riordan is quickly becoming one of my new favorite authors. So when I saw the cover of this ARC I knew I just had to read it. You really shouldn't judge a book by its cover; however, this cover and title grabbed me.
 It was a quick read, and sometimes I found myself wishing for a little more detail. Sometimes the plot and characters seemed a little underdeveloped. In fact, I was probably 100 pages in before I even realized that this may be part of a series. Since I was reading it while flying home from vacation I kept going, and didn't start to read the first book, Shadow's Edge, until about a week after that. One thing I did appreciate was that Cleopatra Ascending was told from Rhea's point of view and about her story as the reincarnated Cleopatra, since the first book was told by Leah who is a Creatuir Shaman, I didn't feel like I was really missing anything even though I read the second book first. Rhea sounded like just a spoiled brat. The nice thing was by having her tell her own story, she was able to develop just a little bit more. But, it is hard when you really are a reincarnated queen.

Shadow's Edge, wrapped up nicely but I enjoyed having Leah as the narrator. So even though I want more of Rhea's story, it would be nice to have Leah back. But, with the way that Cleopatra Ascending ends, I hope that she continues the story in a hopeful future third book. It just seemed like there was more to Rhea's future then was told. I also have to wonder, if the future books will also include the other two sisters as possible narrators. This is one powerful, if not quirky family, and you want to see what else will be thrown their way.

Love and other perishable items

Love and Other Perishable Items by Lauren Buzo
Publication Date: December 11, 2012

Teen, Ages  14+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 3 out of 5

Love is awkward.

Fifteen old Amelia has just started her first job at a grocery store jokingly referred to by her cute co-worker as the Land of Dreams. The longer she works with Chris the quicker she realizes that her feelings for him are starting to become more than "just a crush." He seems to enjoy talking with her and joking with her at work. The more time they spend  together, the more it seems like they really are becoming friends; and maybe more than that. So whats the problem? Chris is a 21 year old university student, just working at the store while he completes his last year of college. Amelia knows it could never happen, but that doesn't stop her from experiencing a year of firsts that will change her life.

 

While this story was predominately told from Amelia's point of view, the closer she and Chris become, the more her narrative is interspersed with his journal entries. She is at an all girls school, and is new to the world of boys. She is unsure of herself and has all the normal angst of a fifteen year old. Her rocky relationship with her dad doesn't help; and even though she can't imagine why her mom is married to him, she can't picture her life without him. Unlike her best friend's dad, who seems to be perfect. Amelia lacks a really solid male roll model in her life.

 

Chris seemed to me to be a typical, lost 21 year-old boy. Not sure of what he is supposed to be becoming, recovering from his first heartbreak, and trying to heal himself with any girl he can get his hands on. What attracts him to Amelia is that she seems more mature and not as whiny as the stereotypical girl, even those who are his own age. She is refreshing in a way he is drawn to, even if she is only 15. But when you are that young, age is a huge factor, even if you still manage to become friends. The story leaves you wondering where they will be in four years, or even eight years when she is graduating college herself. Sometimes you meet the right person at the wrong time, no matter how old you are.

 

One thing that is especially fun with this story is that it is set in Australia. I was lucky to spend 3 weeks between New Zealand and the east coast of Australia in 2002, and I absolutely loved every minute of it. Except for maybe the 14 hour plane ride there. So the dialect didn't phase me at all, but shouldn't be a problem for those who haven't been. I could see parents getting upset about the alcohol and party lifestyle depicted in the story, but it is important to remember that the drinking age is lower over there. Amelia does attend her first party, and as a result experiences her first hangover.

 

Over all, Love made me laugh, and I found myself wanting them to find a common ground. The story leaves you wondering where they will be in four years, or even eight years when she is graduating college herself. Sometimes you meet the right person at the wrong time, no matter how old you are.

Sacred

Sacred by Elana K. Arnold

Publication Date: November 13, 2012

Teen, Ages 12+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 3 out of 5

Scarlet has spent her whole life on Catalina, a small island with an even smaller population. After her brother dies unexpectedly, Scarlet's family falls so deep into their grief that it seems like they may never find their way out of it. Getting thinner and feeling more isolated, the only thing that brings her any joy is when she is riding her horse. But, one day, when a mysterious boy appears in her path her world begins to change. First by befriending Will, and then falling for him, Scarlet begins to allow herself to begin healing. But Will has a secret, and Scarlet feels that it will unravel them and herself along with it.

What is so beautiful about Sacred is that all of the main characters are so damaged, but each one manages to begin to find peace. Some by self discovery, others by shock, but all paths lead to acceptance. After the sudden death of her brother, Scarlet feels alone and then the further abandonment by her parents as they struggle with and lose themselves to their grief. Then Scarlet meets Will, a damaged boy with a tragic past and secrets of his own. It is only by letting Scarlet in that Will is able to open up to the new possibilities and finally embrace his unique gift.Scarlet has never felt a connection to anyone like the one she feels for Will. When she realizes that healing is a choice that she has to make in order to begin, she lets Will's love for her and his father's teachings guide her path.

Religion doesn't often play such a huge role in a story like this, but it is as much a part of Will's life as it becomes a path for Scarlet's healing. Will has a gift, and as he learns to accept it instead of view it as a curse, he realizes that he has a unique opportunity to help others. Splendor, the sequel is due out next summer, and I can't wait to see how Scarlet and Will grow and mature as they embrace life, and each other.

Intellectual Freedom and Kids

lntellectual Freedom and Kids
VLA Annual Conference
Friday, October 26, 2012
2:15-3:00

Presented by:

Lisa Crisman
MSLS, Catholic University, 1995
Children's Librarian, North Avenue Branch
Richmond Public Library

Amanda Giannini
MLIS, Florida State University, 2010
Young Adult Librarian, North Avenue Branch
Richmond Public Library





* What is the role of the Librarian in protecting the rights of children while respecting the rights of their parents and guardians?

* What role do "community standards" play?

* Youth Services staff everyday face issues regarding internet access, collection development, program choices and more.

The Raven Boys



The Raven Boys, Book 1 of The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater

Publication Date: September 18, 2012

Young Adult, Ages 13+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 4 out of 5


 
 

"This is a story about becoming a man"

Blue Sargent has grown up among the world of the supernatural. Her mother, her mother's friends and housemates are all psychics. But not Blue. She functions as sort of an energy enhancer, making other's talents stronger and more certain. The only other certain thing in her life, as foretold when she was a young girl, Blue will kill her first love. But Blue, has no interest in boys, especially the ones from the exclusive prep school in town. "The raven boys," as she calls them. But, then on St. Mark's Eve she sees her first spirit, a young boy who calls himself Gansey. Then, almost by fate, she meets Gansey and his friends, Adam, Noah and Ronan. Even though her mother has expressly forbidden Blue to have anything to do with him, she finds herself unable to stay away from the group. Caught up in their dangerous quest, Blue begins to question her previous notions and gets is exposed to supernatural things she never thought possible.

First let me just go on record and state that I do like Maggie Stiefvater. I love the Werewolves of Mercy Falls (I just finally got my hands on The Scorpio Races the same day this ARC landed on my desk) and I really enjoy listening to her speak in person. Good storytellers are just that, whether they put pen to paper or just say it out loud. But this story just blew me away. I read so much and watch so much, that sometimes you can just figure out what is going to happen. That did not happen with The Raven Boys, at all. I don't even really want to say to much for fear of spoiling one of the incredible plot twists. Just know that I loved it! 

 

I wanted to finish it last night, but against my better judgement I let my husband talk me into coming to bed. Well, an hour later after tossing and turning, I gave up and took the book back downstairs with me. I couldn't put it down! I am so glad that there is more to follow, but now its time to put patience to the test and wait for the next one.

 

If you love the supernatural and all those things that just can't be explained and are tired of the vampire/zombie craze, introduce yourself to Maggie Steifvater. You won't be disappointed.

 

The Other Normals

 The Other Normals by Ned Vizzini

Expected Publication Date: September 25, 2012

Young Adult, Ages 13+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 3.5 out of 5


 

 

 

"This is a story about becoming a man"

Perry Eckert is just like any other fifteen year-old boy. Well, one whose parents are divorced and now dating their divorce attorneys and a brother who is in desperate need of rehab. Perry has found an escape from reality in the form of the role-playing game, Creatures & Caverns. In fact, if C&C is all Perry ever does again it would be just fine with him. Convinced his parents aren't paying attention, he starts skipping classes to play with a boy named Sam, a friend from a neighboring school. But, his parents concerned about his recent behavior and his lack of social skills decide to ship him off to summer camp at Camp Washiska Lake. But Perry is in for more than just the dull summer he bargained for when he stumbles into the world of the Other Normals. Turns out the world of C&C actually exists, and with the princess captured, Perry is in a unique position to help rescue her! But first, he has to face his real life and learn how to connect with other people. Only then can he help the Other Normals save their world.

What a fun adventure! Overall, I just really enjoyed this fun ride. I have spent a lot of time with teenage boys during my life, and have even observed them playing games like the one Creatures and Caverns was inspired from. Even if they aren't into role-playing games, this is a great book for boys of all ages who like a little bit of fantasy mixed in with their reality. Which is good, because the reality keeps changing in Perry's actual world as a result of his Other World adventures. It is hard enough to be a teenager as it is, but when you feel like you don't fit into to your world it is easy to become obsessed with with another. Then to find out that your "dreamland" actually exists? Its like Christmas! to Perry discovering the world of the Other Normals is the best thing that has ever happened to him. This is a world were he knows what to do and how to act. For the first time in his life he feels brave and confident. Its not hard to be the hero here. He also starts to fall for Ada, which makes it that much harder for him to complete his mission back at home.

It is not hard for me to see this book becoming a movie, in fact I hope it does. Even though octopus/human hybrids are not new, I loved the description of the way they moved around on land and would love to see it on a big movie screen. It also doesn't hurt that they are some of the bad guys.

But now that there is unrest and a possible revolution brewing in the world of the Other Normals, will there be a sequel? I hope so!

Death by Chocolate

Being a YA Librarian can definitely have its perks, and this summer I have had no shortage of incredible moments and programs. RPL had a tasty summer following the Reading is So Delicious theme. Even though, our program was over on August 4th, I just couldn't resist doing one more delectable event.

Welcome to the Death by Chocolate Party!

I wanted to have multiple kinds and ended up deciding on a white, a milk, two darks and then two flavored chocolates. I bought one large bar of each. To prepare them for the party I cut them each in half and then used those squares. One square was left whole and the rest were cut into tasting sized pieces.

Each attendee was able to use the square to smell the chocolate before they tasted a separate piece. We started the tasting with the 70% Cocoa Dark Chocolate (Valor Chocolates), then moved down to the 51% Cocoa Dark Chocolate (Perugina). Now it was time for the milk chocolate and after looking around the store I learned that most milk chocolates are 31% Cocoa. For variety, I chose the Godiva bar. Then it was the White Chocolate (also Perugina), which contains vanilla flavor and cocoa butter.

Then it was time for the two flavored chocolates. There were so many different flavors in the store to chose from, but everyone loved the two that I did pick. Because it was creamier, and more like the milk chocolate, the next one sampled was the Ghirardelli Intense Dark Cabernet Matinee. Everyone tasted the fruit, but only one boy guessed correctly that it was blackberry. As in the name, it also contains the flavor of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The last one (and my personal favorite) was a 50% Dark Chocolate with Pear and Almonds (Heidi Grand'Or).

It was a great program, and everyone was able to taste the differences between the bars and note the texture as the level of cocoa decreased. We all learned something today. Of the 10 attendees, I took an informal poll and the Cabernet Matinee was the favorite with a three way second place tie for the 70% dark, milk and white chocolate.

I am so thankful for having a store like For the Love of Chocolate close by! I could have spent hours in there picking out different kinds of chocolate to taste. It was hard enough to decide on the 6 bars that I did. Maybe next time I will be brave enough to get the Chili flavored one.

Here Lies Bridget

                                                
Here Lies Bridget by Paige Harbison

Publication Date: 1-18-2011

Young Adult, Ages 13+
ISBN-13: 978-1-373-21028-2 used for review.
Personal Ranking 3/3.5 out of 5

"What do you do when the five people you meet
in limbo all want you to go to hell?"

Bridget Duke has it all; a famous father, loyal followers and the rule of the school. Then the new girl threatens to destroy the balance of her power. The whole school seems caught in Anna’s spell, which seems to zap all of Bridget’s control. Now that everything seems to be going wrong for Bridget, and being expelled from school seems like an all too possible reality, in a desperate moment she ditches school and ends up crashing her car into a tree. But could this situation possible get any worse? If waking up dead wasn’t bad enough, Bridget wakes up to face the five people she has hurt that mean the most to her. But will her last chance at redemption be enough?

It has been a while since I’ve written a review of an already published book. But about halfway through reading here lies Bridget, I knew that I had to. As soon as I saw the title on the Richmond Public Schools High School summer reading list, I was curious. Then a few weeks later when I was creating the “What do I read?” chart, I knew that I would have to read it!

Bridget is the queen bee that every school has and everyone hates. Kinda like Regina George in Mean Girls, she is completely aware of her power and rules by fear of both the teachers and fellow students. As you get to know Bridget in the days leading up to her death, you realize that she has lost her true friends, her boyfriend and has caused untold amounts of trauma to those around her. While you don’t find yourself wishing she would die, you do want her to learn from her mistakes and make things right. In the end, I do believe that she got what she deserved. She learned a valuable lesson that many teenagers today would greatly benefit from. Your actions have consequences, even indirectly. All too often, this lesson is learned the hard way, just like how Bridget learned it in the end.

This is one of those books that you wish every bully and queen bee would read. I would love to use it as a teen book club selection. Over the past few years I have been lucky enough to participate in some really great book discussions at some of our neighborhood high schools. Based on all the themes in this book, I would love to hear what they would have to say about Bridget, her actions and the resulting punishment.  

The Last Dragonslayer

The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde

Expected USA Publication Date: October 2, 2012

Young Adult, Ages 12+

ARC copy used for review.

Personal Ranking 4 out of 5

"Once, I was famous. My face appeared on T-shirts, badges, commemorative mugs, and posters. I made front-page news, appeared on TV, and was even a special guest on The Yogi Baird Daytime TV Show. The Daily Clam called me "the year's most influential teenager," and I was the Mollusc on Sunday's Woman of the Year. Two people tried to kill me, I was threatened with jail, had fifty-eight offers of marriage, and was outlawed by King Snodd IV. All that and more besides, and in less than a week. My name is Jennifer Strange."

For over 400 years, the unUnited Kingdoms have been living in a world underneath the terms of the Dragonpact. Almost sixteen years old, Jennifer Strange is a strong, sassy heroine who just happens to be managing Kazam, an employment agency and home for wizards. Wizards and Sorcerers are struggling to find work as magic in the world and their powers are fading. Just when she thinks she has her hands full with Mystical Arts Management and a new foundling to train, pre-cogs start seeing premonitions of the death of the last dragon.  Sometimes it seems that only her faithful Quarkbeast and Tiger Prawns, the new foundling, seem to be the only ones on her side. Jennifer must figure out how to balance the demands of her job while magic seems to be disappearing all around them, and  at the same time figure out who the Last Dragonslayer is and convince them not to kill the dragon.

 I hinted about my love of Jasper Fforde in my review of Between the Lines, so imagine my surprise and delight to receive a copy of The Last Dragonslayer only a few weeks later. Actually, it was more of a "library appropriate" victory dance. This is Fforde’s first Young Adult book, and it does not disappoint. Fforde has a way of creating these worlds where anything can happen, and this time magic and dragons are at the center of it all.

As anyone who believes in magic and premonitions will tell you, all a premonition shows you is one version of what could happen. Things change, sometimes through no fault of your own, but to believe that a premonition will come 100% true is to set yourself up for disappointment. One of the things that really struck me was the lengths people would go to make the premonitions come true. The rules of the Dragonpact are clear; the dragon can not be killed by the Dragonslayer unless it has violated the pact. So when the pre-cogs start announcing that the Dragon will be killed on Sunday at noon by the Dragonslayer, people start camping out, placing bets, and bribing the last Dragonslayer. When Jennifer becomes a major player in the game, she has to figure out how to stick to her convictions and do the right thing, even though it is the unpopular choice. Greed is an incredible motivator and their is no lack of it in the town of Hereford.

This is the first book in the Chronicles of Kazam, and I know I won’t be the only one looking forward to the future adventures of Jennifer Strange. Sometimes it is a drag to have a British author as one of your favorites, but keep an eye out for The Song of the Quarkbeast (USA 2013) and The Return of Shandar (USA 2014).

The Ancient Art of Henna

Colleen the Henna Lady

Today we had Colleen Heller, the Henna Lady, come and do a program at North Avenue for the teens, her third of four programs for RPL. She gave a brief, but informative presentation on the history and uses of Henna. I have been looking forward to this program for months, and was especially interested to see the different styles and cultural uses.

After her presentation, she did a small henna for each of the 25 young adult attendees (and even one for me:) Since she mixes her own paste, it smells absolutely wonderful! Some opted for traditional designs, or to let her creatively free hand a design. Some asked for animals or even their initials. Some even asked glitter.

Colleen was professional amazing and you can follow her on Twitter or like her on Facebook! I would recommend her for group events and library programs.

My Henna

One of the things about Henna, is that if properly taken care of it will last for a few weeks.

The first picture is of my Henna immediately after it was done. It is dark and thick because the Henna paste is still on it. I allowed it to dry, and tried not to remove the dry paste for about 6 hours.

When the paste first flaked off, it left a pale yellow design on my skin. Colleen told us that the design would continue to grow darker till day 2.

The second picture was the following morning. The color was darkening, but was almost like a faded orange.

The third picture was taken on day 2. It looks lighter in the photograph, but the beautiful pattern on my wrist is a rich, chocolaty brown.

I love it! I have received so many compliments on it, and I have been thrilled!

Envy and Betrayal

Empty Coffin Series by Gregg Olsen 

               Envy (book 1) 
               Publication Date: August 23, 2011

               Young Adult, Ages 12 

               ISBN 978-1-4027-8957-1 used for review.

               Personal Ranking 4 out of 5






Nothing seems to be going right for Katelyn Berkley. She has drifted away from her group of friends and now that she didn't make the cheerleading squad her best friend won't talk to her. Unable to talk to her mom, she is lonely and depressed. But was she desperate enough to kill herself?

The night Katelyn was found dead in her bathtub everything changed for twins Taylor and Hayley Ryan. They are drawn by reasons they can't explain to figure out the truth about what really happened to Katelyn. But the deeper they get into the mystery, the more information about their own past seems to come to light which will change everything.

Betrayal (book 2)
Expected Publication Date: September 4, 2012

Young Adult, Ages 12+

ARC used for review.

Personal Ranking 4 out of 5

Olivia Grant only wanted to get out of London, and dreamed of the beautiful people and sunny life waiting for her as an exchange student in America. But cold and damp Washington was nothing like the Hollywood, California she expected to come to. However, on Halloween night she is brutally murdered like a slasher film extra and everyone is stumped as to why.

The small town of Port Gamble is still on edge after the shocking death of Katelyn Berkley less than a year ago. Now with their best friend Beth on the suspect list, Taylor and Hayley Ryan decide to use their instincts to investigate on their own. But just how deep do the secrets in their small town go?

Wow! When the ARC of Betrayal crossed my desk I knew this was one that I would have to read. Of course, I had to start with Envy, as the first book in the series. If the cover isn't enough to grab you, the plot will. One of the things I loved the most about Envy and Betrayal is that even though the stories are fictionalized and set in this quite, small town the basis of the stories are truth. Envy was inspired by the October 17, 2006, suicide of Megan Meier, who was cyberbullied by her neighbor's mother. For this reason I would love to use Envy as a book discussion title with young adult women, maybe even with their mothers. Elements of Betrayal's storyline came from the Amanda Knox case. Both cases show just how much evil there is in the world and that it can happen right in your backyard. Like all good "based on truth" stories, I love his "Truth in Fiction" summary at the end of each book.

For those who are obsessed with the paranormal but are sick of the vampire/werewolf/witch fade, you will love the Ryan twins. Their extra abilities are not over done, and add an extra level of mystery and intregue to the story. I really want to know what happens next. It is bad enought that Betrayal includes a teaser for the third book, Guilty. I am not sure how patiently I will be able to wait for future books.

The Author's note in the beginning of Envy says it all to me. "While most people don't invite evil into their lives, the dirty little secret is that an invitation isn't necessary. Locked doors don't matter. Neither do fancy security systems. Evil is kind of amazing when you think about it. She knows how to get inside."