Well, I'm back from a week in Chicagoland where we spent the holidays with my soon to be in-laws. The holidays were great and it was fun to be with family.
But now I'm treating you all to a double dose of book reviews today!:) And be sure to stay tuned for a big contest I'll be having all though January-you gotta start the year off right with books!!! Details to come Jan. 1!
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Sisters 8: Annie's Adventures by Lauren Baratz-Logsted with Greg and Jackie Logsted
Rating: 4/5 Stars
About the Book: Annie, Durinda, Georgia, Jackie, Marcia, Petal, Rebecca, and Zinnia are octuplets. They were born on August 8th and will be celebrating their 8th birthday and they have eight cats. On New Year's Eve, Mommy went to get eggnog, and Daddy went to get firewood, but they didn’t come back.
The Sisters 8 find an anonymous note that says each girl has a power and a gift. Each sister must discover her power and find her gift in order to learn what happened to Mommy and Daddy. But with no Mommy and Daddy around, the girls have more than a mystery to solve. Who will cook them food? Or drive them to school? And how will they pay the bills? The adventures for these octuplets are just beginning!
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: ANNIE’S ADVENTURES is the start to a great new series by authors Lauren Baratz-Logsted and Greg Logsted, along with their daughter, Jackie. The entire family helped write the story and come up with ideas, and there’s definitely something in the story for everyone. The writing was very witty and full of jokes for all ages.
Each of the Sisters 8 has a unique personality and each one is clever and funny. I can’t wait to find out what each of their powers will turn out to be! THE SISTERS 8 would make a great read-aloud for families to share together. The first two books are out now, with more books to be released next year. Readers of all ages will enjoy the mystery mixed with humor and will be eagerly waiting to read about the next sister in line. (I know I am!)
Kissing Booth by Lexie Hill
About the Book: Lisi is an NBK - she’s never been kissed. Lisi would really like to be kissed by her crush, Brett, who also happens to be the most popular guy in school. She doesn’t think her chances are very high, since Lisi in not in the "in" crowd.Springtime at Northside High means planning for the famous Spring Carnival. Spring Carnival is a huge deal, and this year the stakes are high for having the winning booth. Whichever booth sells the most tickets wins a trip to New York City. When planning for the school’s Spring Carnival starts, Lisi gets the inspiration for a kissing booth. Lisi is secretly hoping she will finally get her first kiss from handsome Brett, but Lisi’s not the only one with secrets.
After the popular fly girls make the Kissing Booth their main target for competition, rumors start to fly and the kissing booth crew just might have gotten themselves in too deep. And Lisi just might be falling for the wrong guy.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Anyone who knows me knows I’m a sucker for romances, and I couldn’t resist the adorable red and white cover for this one! I loved the idea of an old-fashioned kissing booth and wished I could go to the Spring Carnival with Lisi and her friends. Even though the story is mainly a romance, there’s also a sub-plot on friends growing up and growing apart that I thought added some depth to the story. I liked each of the characters and thought they were all well drawn-even the popular crowd was somewhat likeable.
KISSING BOOTH felt like it could have been a script for a great romantic comedy (which I also love), and was a perfect feel-good book that left me smiling. I would recommend for readers who like light romantic fiction.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Audio Book Friday
Since I not only read a lot of books, but I listen to tons of audiobooks as well, I decided I'd start reviewing some of the audiobooks I've listened to! I've found that some books I absolutely love as an audiobook and some just don't work for me (partly the story and partly the narrator) But I love popping one in while I'm driving or when I'm in my office at work. Anyone else a fan of audio books?
So today's featured audiobook:
A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban
Narrated by Tai Alexandra Ricci
Rating: 4/5 Stars
So today's featured audiobook:
A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban
Narrated by Tai Alexandra Ricci
Rating: 4/5 Stars
From the Book: Ten-year-old Zoe Elias has perfect piano dreams. She can practically feel the keys under her flying fingers; she can hear the audience's applause. All she needs is a baby grand so she can start her lessons, and then she'll be well on her way to Carnegie Hall.
But when Dad ventures to the music store and ends up with a wheezy organ instead of a piano, Zoe's dreams hit a sour note. Learning the organ versions of old TV theme songs just isn't the same as mastering Beethoven on the piano. And the organ isn't the only part of Zoe's life that's off-kilter, what with Mom constantly at work, Dad afraid to leave the house, and that odd boy, Wheeler Diggs, following her home from school every day.
Yet when Zoe enters the annual Perform-O-Rama organ competition, she finds that life is full of surprises—and that perfection may be even better when it's just a little off center.
About the Audio Book: This book is just so charming and sweet and the audio book made it even more so! Tai Alexandra Ricci sounds just like I think Zoe would sound and reads the book wonderfully. Zoe is such a great character and she captures her perfectly. The other voices may not be as distinct, but there is a charm to each of them and enough personality written into the story that big voice changes are not needed. I loved this story and would highly recommend this one on audio book format!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
3 Willows by Ann Brashares
Rating: 3/5 Stars
Also reviewed for TeensReadToo.com
About the Book: The Sisterhood may be grown up, but their legend lives on. Meet Polly, Jo, and Ama, three girls who are now entering the very same high school the legendary Sisterhood attended. The three have been friends since third grade, but now with high school approaching, they find themselves being drawn in separate ways and spending the summer apart.
Ama is all about academics, extra credit, and schoolwork. She’s signed up to spend the summer at a camp that will give her school credit. She’s hoping to be in the library all day, but instead finds herself signed up for the outdoor wilderness hike. Ama is not an outdoorsy girl and can’t imagine herself spending the summer hiking and sleeping in a tent.
Jo is spending the summer at her family beach house and working as a bus girl at a local restaurant. She’s hoping to make friends with the older girls from the "in" crowd so she can start high school in the right group. But a fling with a mysterious boy threatens to change all of Jo’s plans.
Polly is stuck at home babysitting until she gets the idea that she could be a model. She throws herself into the world of modeling camp and starts to lose herself - and only her friends can help bring her back.
A summer apart is just what these three friends need to bring their friendship back.
GreenBeanTeenQueenSays: One of Ann Brashares strengths is that she puts so much into her characters that readers can always find someone like them. The experiences the girls have never seem over the top or unrealistic, and their friendship will resonate with readers making the transition from middle school to high school.
Although reminiscent of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series, Polly, Ama, and Jo each bring something new to the story - and their stories are original. Fans will enjoy the appearances made by characters from the previous series, as well. 3 Willows is a great pick for readers looking for a wonderful, charming book about the challenges of friendship and growing up.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Want It Wednesday #3
Welcome to Want It Wednesday where I post books that I'm wanting to read-some that are out already and some that are coming soon. Let me know what you think and as always, what books are you wanting this Wednesday?
Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney
Skeleton Creek by Patrick Carman
Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney
Skeleton Creek by Patrick Carman
Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles
Friday, December 12, 2008
State Book Awards
As a librarian in Missouri, I promote our state book awards. Every year, students are given a list of books to read and if they read four or more titles they may vote for the awards in March and winners are announced in April. I make it my goal to try and read all the nominees between now and April since that's when I start school visits for Summer Reading. I'm hoping this year I can actually meet my goal of reading them all! This week the award nominees for 2009-2010 were announced, so I thought I'd share them with you. Have you read any of these titles? Do you think the books that got picked will be of interest to their readers?
2009-2010 Truman Award Nominations-Grades 6-8
Shark Girl. Kelly Bingham
Eighth Grade Bites: The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod. Vol. 1. Heather Brewer
Atherton: The House of Power. Patrick Carman
Diamonds in the Shadow. Caroline Cooney
Carpe Diem. Autumn Cornwell
Into the Wild. Sarah Beth Durst
Games. Carol Gorman
The One where the kid nearly jumps to his death and lands in CA. Mary Hershey
Cracker. Cynthia Kadohata
Tapestry: Hound of Rowan. Henry Neff
Zen and the Art of Faking It. Jordan Sonnenblick
First Light. Wendy Lamb. Rebecca Stead
2009-2010 Gateway Award Nominations-Grades 9-12
Twisted Laurie Halse Anderson
Thirteen Reasons Why Jay Asher
Beauty Shop for Rent -- : fully equipped, inquire within Laura Bowers
Billie Standish was here Nancy Crocker
Deadline Chris Crutcher
Tallgrass Sandra Dallas
November Blues Sharon Draper
Beastly Alex Flinn
Right Behind You Gail Giles
Wicked Lovely Melissa Marr
Unwind Neal Shusterman
Peak Roland Smith
First Shot Walter Sorrells
Boot Camp Todd Strasser
Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac Gabrielle Zevin
2009-2010 Truman Award Nominations-Grades 6-8
Shark Girl. Kelly Bingham
Eighth Grade Bites: The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod. Vol. 1. Heather Brewer
Atherton: The House of Power. Patrick Carman
Diamonds in the Shadow. Caroline Cooney
Carpe Diem. Autumn Cornwell
Into the Wild. Sarah Beth Durst
Games. Carol Gorman
The One where the kid nearly jumps to his death and lands in CA. Mary Hershey
Cracker. Cynthia Kadohata
Tapestry: Hound of Rowan. Henry Neff
Zen and the Art of Faking It. Jordan Sonnenblick
First Light. Wendy Lamb. Rebecca Stead
2009-2010 Gateway Award Nominations-Grades 9-12
Twisted Laurie Halse Anderson
Thirteen Reasons Why Jay Asher
Beauty Shop for Rent -- : fully equipped, inquire within Laura Bowers
Billie Standish was here Nancy Crocker
Deadline Chris Crutcher
Tallgrass Sandra Dallas
November Blues Sharon Draper
Beastly Alex Flinn
Right Behind You Gail Giles
Wicked Lovely Melissa Marr
Unwind Neal Shusterman
Peak Roland Smith
First Shot Walter Sorrells
Boot Camp Todd Strasser
Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac Gabrielle Zevin
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Want It Wednesday #2
Books that are on my wish list. Don't you love looking at all the pretty covers?:)
I'm Still Here!!
I know I haven't been around in awhile. Right before Thanksgiving, I had to rush home for a family emergency, and spent the entire week off work and taking care of family. Then I got back to work and had a week full of catching up and programs and cleaning my office! I've finally emerged from my long catching up and cleaning projects and can get on the blog again-yay!!
I'm busy buying books for the holidays and am hoping to post a new wish list of upcoming books soon. There are so many and I'm hoping there are some Borders gift cards in my stocking this year!:)
I'm busy buying books for the holidays and am hoping to post a new wish list of upcoming books soon. There are so many and I'm hoping there are some Borders gift cards in my stocking this year!:)
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Want It Wednesday
I've seen posts like this on various blogs and since I'm an avid book lover and my wish list is ever growing, I thought I would add a "Want It Wednesday" list of books that are on my wish list. Some will be upcoming releases and others will be books that are already out, but on my reading list. Enjoy!!!
Magicians and Mrs. Quent by Galen M. Beckett (ok, so this one's an adult novel, but I just can't pass up the premise!) 
Annie's Adventures (The Sisters 8) by Lauren Baratz-Logsted
Magicians and Mrs. Quent by Galen M. Beckett (ok, so this one's an adult novel, but I just can't pass up the premise!) 
Annie's Adventures (The Sisters 8) by Lauren Baratz-Logsted 
So what about you? What books are on your wish list?
Monday, November 17, 2008
Jellaby by Kean Soo-Tween
Rating: 4/5 Stars
About the Book: Portia is the new girl in town and things aren't going very well. She's having trouble making friends and she can't keep her mind on class. When she finds a giant purple monster in her backyard, everything changes. She enlists the help of fellow classmate Jason, and with only a picture of a door, Jason, Portia and Jellaby set out on an adventure to the city to find Jellby's home.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: One of the thing I like most about my job is I get to read lots of comic books! After reading this one, Jellaby has quickly become one of my favorites. Jellaby is a sweet and funny story. Many reiewers have pointed out the Calvin and Hobbes feel. You can't help but fall in love with Jellaby and root for him and Portia. There's also a subplot about Portia's father's disappearance that makes the characters even more endearing. Jellaby is a comic book that even non-comic book readers can enjoy. The sequel, Jellaby, Monster in the City is out in April and I am eagerly awaiting it's release!
About the Book: Portia is the new girl in town and things aren't going very well. She's having trouble making friends and she can't keep her mind on class. When she finds a giant purple monster in her backyard, everything changes. She enlists the help of fellow classmate Jason, and with only a picture of a door, Jason, Portia and Jellaby set out on an adventure to the city to find Jellby's home. GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: One of the thing I like most about my job is I get to read lots of comic books! After reading this one, Jellaby has quickly become one of my favorites. Jellaby is a sweet and funny story. Many reiewers have pointed out the Calvin and Hobbes feel. You can't help but fall in love with Jellaby and root for him and Portia. There's also a subplot about Portia's father's disappearance that makes the characters even more endearing. Jellaby is a comic book that even non-comic book readers can enjoy. The sequel, Jellaby, Monster in the City is out in April and I am eagerly awaiting it's release!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Let It Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle
Rating: 5/5 Stars
About the Book: Let It Snow is a new holiday offering from three popular teen authors. Each author contributed a holiday romance short story to add to the collection. Maureen Johnson starts things off with The Jubilee Express, in which Jubilee (no, not a stripper, but named for a piece in her mother’s collection of the Flobie Santa Village) finds herself stranded on a train in Gracetown in a huge snowstorm. A trip to the Waffle House introduces her to Stuart and friendship, or maybe something more, starts to form. In A Cheertastic Christmas Miracle, author John Green hilariously describes the mission of three friends to get to the Waffle House where a group of cheerleaders are stranded and wanting to play Twister.And Lauren Myracle’s The Patron Saint of Pigs shows that lost love can be found again with the help of Starbucks, angels, and even a pig.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: I’m a sucker for romance any time of the year, but something about the holiday season makes me want to curl up in a nice blanket, drink hot chocolate, and read love stories. Let It Snow is the perfect holiday read. Each story stands well on its own, but it was nice to have a common thread throughout. I loved how the authors found ways to connect all three stories. Characters you meet in the beginning show up later on, and places like Starbucks and the Waffle House are important to all three tales. The only thing I didn’t like was that they were all short stories - I could have kept reading about each of the characters! Let It Snow is a great, warm, fuzzy read for the holidays, so grab some hot chocolate and curl up because you won’t want to stop reading until you’re finished and happily sighing.
*Also reviewed for TeensReadToo.com
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: I’m a sucker for romance any time of the year, but something about the holiday season makes me want to curl up in a nice blanket, drink hot chocolate, and read love stories. Let It Snow is the perfect holiday read. Each story stands well on its own, but it was nice to have a common thread throughout. I loved how the authors found ways to connect all three stories. Characters you meet in the beginning show up later on, and places like Starbucks and the Waffle House are important to all three tales. The only thing I didn’t like was that they were all short stories - I could have kept reading about each of the characters! Let It Snow is a great, warm, fuzzy read for the holidays, so grab some hot chocolate and curl up because you won’t want to stop reading until you’re finished and happily sighing.
*Also reviewed for TeensReadToo.com
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Two Moon Princess by Carmen Ferreiro-Esteban Tween-Teen
Rating: 5/5 Stars
About the Book: Andrea is a Princess, but she feels like she doesn’t fit in. She wants to join the knights, but her father refuses her request and instructs Andrea to visit her mother for lessons on becoming a lady. Ladyship is boring and uneventful and Andrea tires of her lessons quickly.
On the night of her kingdom’s ball, Andrea has had enough of being a princess and decides to run away. She stumbles upon a doorway that leads to modern day California. Xaren-Ra, Andrea’s world, resembles medieval Spain, so seeing a new world is an adventure. Andrea adapts to her new fast pace life in California. She makes friends, attends classes, and starts to fall for a local boy.
During a storm, Andrea takes shelter in the same cave that brought her to California. Only this time she accidentally re-opens the passage, bringing with her an American boy. Andrea’s return to her kingdom sets off a chain of events that ignites a war on her world, uncovers family secrets and endangers her family and friends. Now Andrea has to find a way to stop the war and find her place in her world.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Two Moon Princess is a wonderful book that kept me up turning its pages and reading well into the night. I was transported into Andrea’s world and didn’t want to leave. There was never a dull moment or a bland character. The author’s parallel worlds were richly described and all the characters grew throughout the story.
Andrea is a great strong character-she recognizes her duty to her kingdom, but also has a bit of a rebellious streak in her. She’s not a damsel in distress at all, but at the same time she’s not afraid to show her soft side.
This story was full of adventure and the romance was an unexpected surprise. This is a great pick for readers who enjoy fantasy but also great for readers who like romance in their stories. I have already recommended this title to several teen patrons at my library and they enjoyed it just as much as I did. I’m excited to see the author is working on a sequel, which I hope to read soon.
Also reviewed for TeensReadToo.com
About the Book: Andrea is a Princess, but she feels like she doesn’t fit in. She wants to join the knights, but her father refuses her request and instructs Andrea to visit her mother for lessons on becoming a lady. Ladyship is boring and uneventful and Andrea tires of her lessons quickly.
On the night of her kingdom’s ball, Andrea has had enough of being a princess and decides to run away. She stumbles upon a doorway that leads to modern day California. Xaren-Ra, Andrea’s world, resembles medieval Spain, so seeing a new world is an adventure. Andrea adapts to her new fast pace life in California. She makes friends, attends classes, and starts to fall for a local boy.
During a storm, Andrea takes shelter in the same cave that brought her to California. Only this time she accidentally re-opens the passage, bringing with her an American boy. Andrea’s return to her kingdom sets off a chain of events that ignites a war on her world, uncovers family secrets and endangers her family and friends. Now Andrea has to find a way to stop the war and find her place in her world.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Two Moon Princess is a wonderful book that kept me up turning its pages and reading well into the night. I was transported into Andrea’s world and didn’t want to leave. There was never a dull moment or a bland character. The author’s parallel worlds were richly described and all the characters grew throughout the story.
Andrea is a great strong character-she recognizes her duty to her kingdom, but also has a bit of a rebellious streak in her. She’s not a damsel in distress at all, but at the same time she’s not afraid to show her soft side.
This story was full of adventure and the romance was an unexpected surprise. This is a great pick for readers who enjoy fantasy but also great for readers who like romance in their stories. I have already recommended this title to several teen patrons at my library and they enjoyed it just as much as I did. I’m excited to see the author is working on a sequel, which I hope to read soon.
Also reviewed for TeensReadToo.com
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
NaNoWriMo and Book Contests
I decided to sign up for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and see if I can write a 50,000 word novel in the month of November. With me hosting Thanksgiving this year (which includes the first meeting of my and my fiance's families), programs at work, and all the books I have to read and review, it'll be interesting to see if I find the time, but I'm going to try! (I really wish I had a time turner...)
There's lots of book contests going on, and with this being the end of October, you only have a few more days to get your entries in! Check these out and be sure to enter ASAP!
Free Book Friday is giving away copies of Untamed by P.C. Cast
Free Book Friday: Teen Edition is giving away ARC copies of Evermore by Alyson Noel (coming in Feb. 2009-be watching my blog for my review very soon!)
Author Kelly Parra is finishing up her Secret Fates blog contest this week with authors sharing secrets and giving away their books
Author Brooke Taylor has been hosting a Monster Month of Giveaways and she's giving away a HUGE Paranormal Powerball on (when else?) Halloween
Over on The Page Flipper Chelsea is holding an auction for a marked up copy of Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith
And don't forget about the monthly TeensReadToo.com contest
Last, be sure to keep watching my blog as I'm planning on hosting some giveaways in the next month (just another thing to make November crazy!)
There's lots of book contests going on, and with this being the end of October, you only have a few more days to get your entries in! Check these out and be sure to enter ASAP!
Free Book Friday is giving away copies of Untamed by P.C. Cast
Free Book Friday: Teen Edition is giving away ARC copies of Evermore by Alyson Noel (coming in Feb. 2009-be watching my blog for my review very soon!)
Author Kelly Parra is finishing up her Secret Fates blog contest this week with authors sharing secrets and giving away their books
Author Brooke Taylor has been hosting a Monster Month of Giveaways and she's giving away a HUGE Paranormal Powerball on (when else?) Halloween
Over on The Page Flipper Chelsea is holding an auction for a marked up copy of Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith
And don't forget about the monthly TeensReadToo.com contest
Last, be sure to keep watching my blog as I'm planning on hosting some giveaways in the next month (just another thing to make November crazy!)
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Gothic Lolita by Dakota Lane-Teen
Rating: 5/5 Stars
About the Book: Chelsea lives in Los Angeles with her mother. Miya lives in Tokyo in a children’s home. Chelsea’s precious brother disappeared three years ago. Miya lives to protect her brother. They both have an obsession with the same romantic manga. Both girls are interested in Gothic Lolita. The girls have never met or talked, but the two are connected in more ways than they realize. Finding each other through a girl blogger site years before, each girl posted about their life and happenings. Each girl found an avid reader in the other. But they never left comments or talked. Now, three years later, Chelsea has stopped blogging completely and is feeling lost and alone without her brother. Miya lives in fear that someone will take her brother away and starts to plan their escape. Now is the time when the girls need each other the most. Will they break down the barriers, open themselves up to who they really are and help each other?
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: I got a copy of this book from YaYnot?-seriously check that site out! This is a fascinating and beautiful tale of friendship and love. Told in alternating voices in short quick chapters, this tale reads like poetry. The story is accompanied by black and white photographs taken by the author that added a sense of mystery and beauty to the story.
I loved how the author unveiled more and more about each girl and the reader is able to uncover just how their lives are connected. It felt like I was slowly unwrapping a delicious candy bar but I could only have it piece by piece. This is a book to be savored. I will most definitely be passing this book along to my teens.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Beastly by Alex Flinn-Teen
Rating: 4/5 Stars
About the Book: Kyle Kingsbury is popular and handsome and he knows it. He can get anything he wants because of his famous father. He goes to an elite school, has the coolest friends and the hottest girlfriend. Kyle was king-until he decided to play a trick on the goth girl at school. Turns out Kendra isn't just a goth girl, she's a witch and she's going to teach Kyle a lesson. She turns Kyle into a beast as ugly on the outside as he is on the inside. Now Kyle's father won't look at him, his friends won't have anything to do with him, and his girlfriend has left. Kyle's father banishes him to a private home where his only company are his maid and tutor. Will Kyle break the curse? Can anyone ever love a beast?
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Ok, anyone who knows me knows I'm a sucker for fairy tales and fairy tale re-tellings. This is a curl up and read in one sitting sort of book. Beastly is beautifully told and keeps a lot of magic and romance of the original Beauty and the Beast tale. The thing I liked the most is that this is the story told from the beast's perspective. I liked getting inside his head and hearing his side of the story. If you like fairy tales, you'll want to pick up a copy of this one for your collection!
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Ok, anyone who knows me knows I'm a sucker for fairy tales and fairy tale re-tellings. This is a curl up and read in one sitting sort of book. Beastly is beautifully told and keeps a lot of magic and romance of the original Beauty and the Beast tale. The thing I liked the most is that this is the story told from the beast's perspective. I liked getting inside his head and hearing his side of the story. If you like fairy tales, you'll want to pick up a copy of this one for your collection!
Monday, October 13, 2008
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins-Teen
Rating: 5/5 StarsAbout the Book: Katniss Everdeen lives in a future where Panem is controlled by The Capitol. Each year, the 12 districts of Panem send two tributes to fight in the Hunger Games and the games will be televised and watched by everyone. The tributes must fight to the death and the last one standing wins fame, glory, money and food. When Katniss's little sister is chosen as District 12's tribute, she knows there's no way she can let her sister go so she steps in and takes her place. Now she has to survive and bring back a win for District 12 who's only ever had one winner of the Hunger Games ever. Then there's Peeta, the other District 12 tribute, who has won the audience over by claiming to be in love with Katniss. Is he telling the truth or just playing a game? And can Katniss somehow outsmart the other tributes? Only one can end up winning.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: I had been hearing a lot of buzz about this book. I've read and reviewed Gregor the Overlander and enjoyed that book, so I was eager to read another book by that author. I was a little wary of story line (think Survivor meets Gladiator) and was afraid it would be too violent for sensitive little me.
I was very surprised and Hunger Games is easily one of the best books I've read this year! It's a fast paced story and full of action and even some romance. Despite the plot, the story wasn't as gruesome as I feared and was handled and written very well.
The story was hard to put down and I found myself thinking about it when I wasn't reading it. This is and addictive read and the first in a trilogy. Now I'm stuck here eagerly waiting for book two and it can't come fast enough!!!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
More Book Contests
In honor of Halloween, Brooke Taylor, author of the novel Undone, is holding a monster month of giveaways. And when she says monster, she really means it-check out some of the stuff she's giving away!! Be sure to enter and good luck!:)
Monday, October 6, 2008
Saturday, October 4, 2008
The Luxe by Anna Godbersen-TEEN
Rating: 5/5 Stars
About the Book: It's 1899, Elizabeth Holland is the sweetheart of upper class New York society and we're about to attend her funeral. Was it murder or an innocent accident? The Holland family comes from old money and has helped rule the upper class. But they are facing a financial crisis and the only way to save the family is for Elizabeth to marry Henry Schoonmaker. Things would be perfect if the pair actually loved each other. Elizabeth's frenamie, Penelope has her eyes on Henry and will do anything to keep him and Elizabeth has a secret lover of her own.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Full of fashion, intrigue, gossip and glamour The Luxe is a guilty pleasure. I have to admit that I've become addicted! Romance and mystery make this a fast paced read that you won't be able to put down. With lots of characters and various storylines that all weave together, there's something for every reader. The Luxe is the first in a series, so there's more upper class gossip to come. History has never been this much fun!
About the Book: It's 1899, Elizabeth Holland is the sweetheart of upper class New York society and we're about to attend her funeral. Was it murder or an innocent accident? The Holland family comes from old money and has helped rule the upper class. But they are facing a financial crisis and the only way to save the family is for Elizabeth to marry Henry Schoonmaker. Things would be perfect if the pair actually loved each other. Elizabeth's frenamie, Penelope has her eyes on Henry and will do anything to keep him and Elizabeth has a secret lover of her own.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Full of fashion, intrigue, gossip and glamour The Luxe is a guilty pleasure. I have to admit that I've become addicted! Romance and mystery make this a fast paced read that you won't be able to put down. With lots of characters and various storylines that all weave together, there's something for every reader. The Luxe is the first in a series, so there's more upper class gossip to come. History has never been this much fun!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Lots of Book Goodies!!!
Book Auction:
If you love books as much as I do, you'll be super excited about this awesome auction in support of First Book. Authors will be auctioning off marked up copies of thier books and the proceeds will go to benefit First Book, a great organization that gets books into the hands of children who might not otherwise be able to get books. The great thing is these kids get to keep the books they're given, so they can cherish their first book and discover the joy of reading! Check out the Leave a Mark auction HERE. Books will be auctioned off every few days, so be sure to check back often!
Secret Fates Contest:
Author Kelly Para is celebrating the release of her book Invisible Touch (coming this October-check out this review from TeensReadToo.com by my fellow reviewer Lauren) with a HUGE giveaway and secret spilling from your favorite authors. Check out her blog and leave your secrets!
Harry Potter:
I saved the biggest one for last! This year marks the tenth anniversary of Harry Potter and MomDot is giving away some great Harry Potter prizes! Check out what they're giving away:
One (1) Grand Prize (retail value $195)
•Complete Box Set Books #1 - #7
•Copy of the 10th Anniversary Edition of ‘Sorcerer’s Stone’
•Collectible Harry Potter Gold Pin
Four (4) Runners Up (Retail Value $30 a piece)
•Copy of the 10th Anniversary Edition of ‘Sorcerer’s Stone’
•Collectible Harry Potter Gold Pin
Scholastic has released the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone 10th Anniversary Edition, complete with new artwork and special content from J.K. Rowling. Head over the Scholastic Harry Potter site and check out all the cool games, trivia contests and more! If you're a Harry Potter fan like me, you can easily spend your entire day on that site!:)
Head on over to MomDot to enter and good luck!
Enjoy all the contests and look for some new book reviews soon!:)
If you love books as much as I do, you'll be super excited about this awesome auction in support of First Book. Authors will be auctioning off marked up copies of thier books and the proceeds will go to benefit First Book, a great organization that gets books into the hands of children who might not otherwise be able to get books. The great thing is these kids get to keep the books they're given, so they can cherish their first book and discover the joy of reading! Check out the Leave a Mark auction HERE. Books will be auctioned off every few days, so be sure to check back often!
Secret Fates Contest:
Author Kelly Para is celebrating the release of her book Invisible Touch (coming this October-check out this review from TeensReadToo.com by my fellow reviewer Lauren) with a HUGE giveaway and secret spilling from your favorite authors. Check out her blog and leave your secrets!
Harry Potter:
I saved the biggest one for last! This year marks the tenth anniversary of Harry Potter and MomDot is giving away some great Harry Potter prizes! Check out what they're giving away:
One (1) Grand Prize (retail value $195)
•Complete Box Set Books #1 - #7
•Copy of the 10th Anniversary Edition of ‘Sorcerer’s Stone’
•Collectible Harry Potter Gold Pin
Four (4) Runners Up (Retail Value $30 a piece)
•Copy of the 10th Anniversary Edition of ‘Sorcerer’s Stone’
•Collectible Harry Potter Gold Pin
Scholastic has released the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone 10th Anniversary Edition, complete with new artwork and special content from J.K. Rowling. Head over the Scholastic Harry Potter site and check out all the cool games, trivia contests and more! If you're a Harry Potter fan like me, you can easily spend your entire day on that site!:)
Head on over to MomDot to enter and good luck!
Enjoy all the contests and look for some new book reviews soon!:)
Monday, September 29, 2008
Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow by Jessica Day George-Teen
Rating: 4/5 Stars
About the Book: The lass is the youngest of the woodcutter’s children. Her mother was so upset that she had another child, let alone another girl, that she refused to even give her a name. The lass grows up, and is delighted when her older brother Hans Peter comes home from the sea. Hans Peter is cursed upon his return and is forever depressed, but he enjoys the lasses company and teaches her how to read the strange symbols in his wood carvings.
When the lass is sixteen, rumors of an isborjn, a white polar bear, surround the village. The lass has been gifted with the ability to talk to animals. Upon hearing of this gift, the white polar bear seeks the lass out and asks her to join him at the palace of ice for one year. Hans Peter tries to argue that she can not go, but the bear promises her family riches if the lass joins him. The lass agrees and travels with him to the ice palace.
Thanks to Hans Peter’s carvings, the lass realizes she can read the carvings on the wall, which tell stories of the spells and curses the troll princess has cast. When the lass’s own isborjn is taken away by the troll princess, the lass must risk everything she can to find the palace East of the sun and West of the moon and break the curse upon him.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: I enjoy reading fairy tales and fairy tale re-tellings. Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow is based on a Nordic folktale called East of the Sun, West of the Moon (which I had not heard of until this book came across my desk). This was a richly told story, with hints of Beauty and the Beast, one of my all time favorite stories. The author adds depth and background to the tale and the story itself is magical. If you enjoy fairy tales, especially fairy tales with strong female characters, be sure to add this to you must read pile. You'll be swept away and won't want to come back until you've read the last page.
About the Book: The lass is the youngest of the woodcutter’s children. Her mother was so upset that she had another child, let alone another girl, that she refused to even give her a name. The lass grows up, and is delighted when her older brother Hans Peter comes home from the sea. Hans Peter is cursed upon his return and is forever depressed, but he enjoys the lasses company and teaches her how to read the strange symbols in his wood carvings.
When the lass is sixteen, rumors of an isborjn, a white polar bear, surround the village. The lass has been gifted with the ability to talk to animals. Upon hearing of this gift, the white polar bear seeks the lass out and asks her to join him at the palace of ice for one year. Hans Peter tries to argue that she can not go, but the bear promises her family riches if the lass joins him. The lass agrees and travels with him to the ice palace.
Thanks to Hans Peter’s carvings, the lass realizes she can read the carvings on the wall, which tell stories of the spells and curses the troll princess has cast. When the lass’s own isborjn is taken away by the troll princess, the lass must risk everything she can to find the palace East of the sun and West of the moon and break the curse upon him.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: I enjoy reading fairy tales and fairy tale re-tellings. Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow is based on a Nordic folktale called East of the Sun, West of the Moon (which I had not heard of until this book came across my desk). This was a richly told story, with hints of Beauty and the Beast, one of my all time favorite stories. The author adds depth and background to the tale and the story itself is magical. If you enjoy fairy tales, especially fairy tales with strong female characters, be sure to add this to you must read pile. You'll be swept away and won't want to come back until you've read the last page.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Barnaby Grimes: Curse of the Night Wolf
Barnaby Grimes is a tick-tock lad and he's the fastest messenger around. When a mysterious wolf attacks Barnaby one night and people start to disappear, Barnaby knows something is up and decides to become a detective.
Read my full review at TeensReadToo.com
Read my full review at TeensReadToo.com
Friday, August 29, 2008
Diary of a Wimpy Kid-Tween
Rating: 5/5 Stars
About the Book: Greg Heffley is in middle school and being in middle school is not easy. When Greg's mom brings home a journal (it may say diary on the cover, but most definitely is NOT a diary!) Greg decides to record his adventures through words and cartoons. Greg tries to navigate life in middle school, survive his brothers, and avoid the curse of the cheese touch. A story for the underdog wimpy kid in all of us.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: This hilarious story started as an online comic on funbrain. If you haven't read this book yet, then rush to your library and bookstore and read it now! I guarantee you will be laughing within the first few pages. Dispite the middle school premise and lead character as a boy, this book is perfect for all ages, boys and girls. This is a perfect pick for those reluctant reader boys, since it blends comics into the story. More books are coming in the series and I can't wait to read more about Greg's silly adventures.
About the Book: Greg Heffley is in middle school and being in middle school is not easy. When Greg's mom brings home a journal (it may say diary on the cover, but most definitely is NOT a diary!) Greg decides to record his adventures through words and cartoons. Greg tries to navigate life in middle school, survive his brothers, and avoid the curse of the cheese touch. A story for the underdog wimpy kid in all of us.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: This hilarious story started as an online comic on funbrain. If you haven't read this book yet, then rush to your library and bookstore and read it now! I guarantee you will be laughing within the first few pages. Dispite the middle school premise and lead character as a boy, this book is perfect for all ages, boys and girls. This is a perfect pick for those reluctant reader boys, since it blends comics into the story. More books are coming in the series and I can't wait to read more about Greg's silly adventures.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
I'm Back-Finally!!!
I know, I know I've been a very bad book blogger! I've been super busy with the summer reading program plus getting engaged-yay!-but now I'm back to tell you about more awesome books to read!
I've been reviewing lots for TeensReadToo, so check out these great new books:
Accidentally Fabulous by Lisa Papademetriou
The Crimson Thread by Suzanne Weyn
Discovering Pig Magic by Julie Crabtree
Skinned by Robin Wasserman
Sovay by Celia Rees
See-told you I've been busy! I'll be sure to post more great reads soon, as well as some booklists I've been working on.
I've been reviewing lots for TeensReadToo, so check out these great new books:
Accidentally Fabulous by Lisa Papademetriou
The Crimson Thread by Suzanne Weyn
Discovering Pig Magic by Julie Crabtree
Skinned by Robin Wasserman
Sovay by Celia Rees
See-told you I've been busy! I'll be sure to post more great reads soon, as well as some booklists I've been working on.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Band Geek Love by Josie Bloss-Tween-Teen
Rating: 5/5 Stars
About the Book: Ellie Snow is a band geek-and proud of it. She's finally a senior, she's the trumpet section leader, and she's going to rock her solo at the end of band camp performance. She wasn't expecting him to be there and catch her eye in the crowd-and make her totally mess up. On top of her very embarassing performance, the mysterious cute guy from the crowd is a new student at school-and joining her trumpet section. If Ellie was any other girl, she might know how to deal with this. But ever since Ellie had her heart terribly broken her freshman year, she's given up on boys. Ellie likes everything perfect and in her control-but cute Conner is just too distracting and she's losing focus. When Ellie's former crush and the boy responsible for breaking her heart returns, Ellie finds herself in the middle of some serious band geek love.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: This book was a lot of fun. Band geek or not, if you're a fan of romantic comedies, you'll enjoy reading about Ellie and her various mishaps. Ellie is a great main character-she's strong, she's a control freak, and she's a band geek! A sequel is in the works and I'm looking forward to reading more from this debut author.
You can also check out my review of Band Geek Love at teensreadtoo.com
About the Book: Ellie Snow is a band geek-and proud of it. She's finally a senior, she's the trumpet section leader, and she's going to rock her solo at the end of band camp performance. She wasn't expecting him to be there and catch her eye in the crowd-and make her totally mess up. On top of her very embarassing performance, the mysterious cute guy from the crowd is a new student at school-and joining her trumpet section. If Ellie was any other girl, she might know how to deal with this. But ever since Ellie had her heart terribly broken her freshman year, she's given up on boys. Ellie likes everything perfect and in her control-but cute Conner is just too distracting and she's losing focus. When Ellie's former crush and the boy responsible for breaking her heart returns, Ellie finds herself in the middle of some serious band geek love.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: This book was a lot of fun. Band geek or not, if you're a fan of romantic comedies, you'll enjoy reading about Ellie and her various mishaps. Ellie is a great main character-she's strong, she's a control freak, and she's a band geek! A sequel is in the works and I'm looking forward to reading more from this debut author.
You can also check out my review of Band Geek Love at teensreadtoo.com
Friday, June 27, 2008
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld-Tween-Teen
Rating: 3/5 Stars
About the Book: In a not so distant future society, Tally is awaiting her 16th birthday, but not for the reasons you may think. On your 16th birthday, you recieve an operation to turn you from ugly to pretty. The operation to turn pretty has made everyone equals and violence and destruction have gone down. But not everyone thinks the pretty operation is such a wonderful thing. Tally meets Shay, another soon to be pretty, who wants to forgo the pretty operation and run away to the Smoke, a secret community of people who don't believe in the operation. When Shay runs away without Tally, Tally finds herself being recruited by the fabled Specials. They want Tally to work for them and find Shay, the Smoke and help bring it all down. Sounds good to Tally, until she makes it there and realizes she just might agree with what they stand for-no more pretties.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: This book has everything-action, adventure, secrets, mystery, and even a little romance. I actually listened to this book on CD and would recommend the audiobook as well as the book. This would be a great pick for those wanting a very mild sci-fi read. The ending will leave you clamoring for the sequels-four books in the series total.
About the Book: In a not so distant future society, Tally is awaiting her 16th birthday, but not for the reasons you may think. On your 16th birthday, you recieve an operation to turn you from ugly to pretty. The operation to turn pretty has made everyone equals and violence and destruction have gone down. But not everyone thinks the pretty operation is such a wonderful thing. Tally meets Shay, another soon to be pretty, who wants to forgo the pretty operation and run away to the Smoke, a secret community of people who don't believe in the operation. When Shay runs away without Tally, Tally finds herself being recruited by the fabled Specials. They want Tally to work for them and find Shay, the Smoke and help bring it all down. Sounds good to Tally, until she makes it there and realizes she just might agree with what they stand for-no more pretties.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: This book has everything-action, adventure, secrets, mystery, and even a little romance. I actually listened to this book on CD and would recommend the audiobook as well as the book. This would be a great pick for those wanting a very mild sci-fi read. The ending will leave you clamoring for the sequels-four books in the series total.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Artichoke's Heart by Suzanne Supplee-Tween-Teen
Rating: 5/5 Stars
About the Book: Rosemary Goode is smart, funny, and sassy, but no one seems to notice. All anyone sees is her weight - all 200 pounds of it. She doesn’t fit in at school, she finds herself getting made fun of by the popular Bluebirds, and the only boyfriend she’ll ever have is Mr. Hershey, or Mr. M&M. At the start of a new year, Rosemary finds herself disappointed. Santa just brought her an unwanted treadmill for Christmas and her Aunt Mary gave her tickets to a "Healing the Fat Girl Within" Conference. On top of that, Rosemary’s mother has sneakily set up counseling sessions for weight loss. After a meltdown at her mother’s gossipy salon, Rosemary decides she is going to lose the weight - on her terms. Rosemary tries various methods to lose weight, but it’s a slow process. When Rosemary’s mother is diagnosed with cancer, the distance between them grows even more and Rosemary tries to keep from turning back to food. Things start to look up when Kyle Cox, the school’s newest football star, starts to take a notice in Rosemary. But how can popular, good-looking Kyle ever like a girl like Rosemary? And how will Rosemary bridge the ever-growing gap between her and her mother?
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Upon opening this book, I found myself drawn in and I didn't want to leave the story. This is one of those stay in bed and read all day books. Don't be fooled by the cover of this book-although this has some chick lit elements, the story goes much deeper than typical light chick-lit fare. The characters are wonderfully drawn and relateable-I cheered for Rosemary and had a bit of a crush on Kyle. I'm looking forward to reading more from this debut author.
About the Book: Rosemary Goode is smart, funny, and sassy, but no one seems to notice. All anyone sees is her weight - all 200 pounds of it. She doesn’t fit in at school, she finds herself getting made fun of by the popular Bluebirds, and the only boyfriend she’ll ever have is Mr. Hershey, or Mr. M&M. At the start of a new year, Rosemary finds herself disappointed. Santa just brought her an unwanted treadmill for Christmas and her Aunt Mary gave her tickets to a "Healing the Fat Girl Within" Conference. On top of that, Rosemary’s mother has sneakily set up counseling sessions for weight loss. After a meltdown at her mother’s gossipy salon, Rosemary decides she is going to lose the weight - on her terms. Rosemary tries various methods to lose weight, but it’s a slow process. When Rosemary’s mother is diagnosed with cancer, the distance between them grows even more and Rosemary tries to keep from turning back to food. Things start to look up when Kyle Cox, the school’s newest football star, starts to take a notice in Rosemary. But how can popular, good-looking Kyle ever like a girl like Rosemary? And how will Rosemary bridge the ever-growing gap between her and her mother?
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Upon opening this book, I found myself drawn in and I didn't want to leave the story. This is one of those stay in bed and read all day books. Don't be fooled by the cover of this book-although this has some chick lit elements, the story goes much deeper than typical light chick-lit fare. The characters are wonderfully drawn and relateable-I cheered for Rosemary and had a bit of a crush on Kyle. I'm looking forward to reading more from this debut author.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Cruel Summer by Alyson Noel-Teen
Rating: 4/5 Stars
About the Book: Colby Cavendish is in for a cruel summer. Her parents are involved in a bitter angry divorce and have shippped Colby off to a super small boring island in Greece to spend summer with her crazy aunt Tally. The timing couldn't be worse-Colby just recently managed to break into the "in-crowd" and become friends with the popular Amanda and finally hook up with her long-time crush, the hottie Levi. Colby is convinced this summer is going to be the worst ever until she opens herself up to the possibility of having a good time and meets a very cute local named Yannis. One thing is for sure, this summer will be one to remember.
GreenBeanTeenQueenSays: I am a HUGE fan of anything written by Alyson Noel, so I was super excited when an advanced copy of this book (actually signed by the author herself!) found it's way into my hands. I wasn't able to read it right away, because work got in the way, so this week I finally was able to sit down and travel to Greece with Colby and Yannis. The story is told through Colby's "Journal for Desperate Times", e-mails, letters and her blog. Colby's desperate measures made me laugh out loud and she was a great narrator and very relateable. The whole time I was reading I wanted to pack my bags and join Colby and Yannis on Tinos. This is one book that should be on everyone's summer beach read list!
About the Book: Colby Cavendish is in for a cruel summer. Her parents are involved in a bitter angry divorce and have shippped Colby off to a super small boring island in Greece to spend summer with her crazy aunt Tally. The timing couldn't be worse-Colby just recently managed to break into the "in-crowd" and become friends with the popular Amanda and finally hook up with her long-time crush, the hottie Levi. Colby is convinced this summer is going to be the worst ever until she opens herself up to the possibility of having a good time and meets a very cute local named Yannis. One thing is for sure, this summer will be one to remember.
GreenBeanTeenQueenSays: I am a HUGE fan of anything written by Alyson Noel, so I was super excited when an advanced copy of this book (actually signed by the author herself!) found it's way into my hands. I wasn't able to read it right away, because work got in the way, so this week I finally was able to sit down and travel to Greece with Colby and Yannis. The story is told through Colby's "Journal for Desperate Times", e-mails, letters and her blog. Colby's desperate measures made me laugh out loud and she was a great narrator and very relateable. The whole time I was reading I wanted to pack my bags and join Colby and Yannis on Tinos. This is one book that should be on everyone's summer beach read list!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Teens Read Too Reviews
Check out my book reviews of One Small Step by P.B. Kerr and Suddenly Supernatural: School Spirit by Elizabeth Cody Kimmel at teensreadtoo.com!
Monday, May 19, 2008
Coraline by Neil Gaiman-Tween/Teen
Rating: 3/5 Stars
About the Book: Coraline is having a boring Summer. Her family has recently moved into a large house where the occupy one of the floors. Her neighbors are interesting, but a little strange, and Coraline finds herself getting more and more bored as Summer draws on. One day, while searching through the house, Coraline discovers a locked door. When she asks her mother about it, she finds it actually leads to nowhere and opens it to see a brick wall blocking the way. But later that night, Coraline is awake and hears noises coming from the doorway. This time it's not blocked and Coraline finds herself in another world. At first this new world is exciting and interesting. None of her father's strange cooking experiments and everyone calls her by the correct name-no more Caroline. She even has an other mother and other father on the other side-even if they are not quite the same as her real parents and have buttons for eyes. When Coraline tries to go back to her real world, her other mother is not happy. Coraline makes her way only to find her real parents kidnapped. Coraline must travel back to the strange other side, where she make a deal with her other mother to set her parents free. Before that can happen, Coraline has to find all the souls of the children the other mother has lured to the other side. Coraline is in for an adventure and the other mother wants to be sure Coraline fails.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: If you like scary or creepy stories, this is one to check out. It's a very short chapter book that's for children, but is great for teens and adults as well. I'm a scaredy cat of the biggest kind and wasn't totally creeped out by Coraline's story, so it is a great read, even if you're not a scary story fan. This is also a book to be keeping on your radar as an animated 3-D movie will be coming out soon with Dakota Fanning as the voice of Coraline.
About the Book: Coraline is having a boring Summer. Her family has recently moved into a large house where the occupy one of the floors. Her neighbors are interesting, but a little strange, and Coraline finds herself getting more and more bored as Summer draws on. One day, while searching through the house, Coraline discovers a locked door. When she asks her mother about it, she finds it actually leads to nowhere and opens it to see a brick wall blocking the way. But later that night, Coraline is awake and hears noises coming from the doorway. This time it's not blocked and Coraline finds herself in another world. At first this new world is exciting and interesting. None of her father's strange cooking experiments and everyone calls her by the correct name-no more Caroline. She even has an other mother and other father on the other side-even if they are not quite the same as her real parents and have buttons for eyes. When Coraline tries to go back to her real world, her other mother is not happy. Coraline makes her way only to find her real parents kidnapped. Coraline must travel back to the strange other side, where she make a deal with her other mother to set her parents free. Before that can happen, Coraline has to find all the souls of the children the other mother has lured to the other side. Coraline is in for an adventure and the other mother wants to be sure Coraline fails.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: If you like scary or creepy stories, this is one to check out. It's a very short chapter book that's for children, but is great for teens and adults as well. I'm a scaredy cat of the biggest kind and wasn't totally creeped out by Coraline's story, so it is a great read, even if you're not a scary story fan. This is also a book to be keeping on your radar as an animated 3-D movie will be coming out soon with Dakota Fanning as the voice of Coraline.
School Visits Shout Outs
Sorry for the looong break in the blog. Summer Reading Program is gearing up at the library, so I've been making school visits like crazy getting tweens and teens pumped about the program this year. A big shout out to the students of Cherokee and Wilson's Creek-thanks for being so awesome and lots of fun. Be sure to stop by the library and say hi this Summer!:)
Saturday, May 3, 2008
If you liked Twilight...
What to read after Twilight? Here's some books to help you get through until the release of Breaking Dawn in August!
Vampires:
The Silver Kiss by Annette Curtis Klause
Vampire Kisses by Ellen Schreiber
Marked by P.C. Cast
Demon in My View by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes
In the Forests of the Night by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes
Peeps by Scott Westerfeld
Look for me by Moonlight by Mary Downing Hawn
Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
Vampire Diaries by L.J. Smith
Vampire Knight(Manga Series) by Matsuri Hino
Not Vampires, but Paranormal Romance:
Keturah and Lord Death by Martine Leavitt
A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb
The Mediator Series by Meg Cabot
A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
I Heart You, You Haunt Me by Lisa Schroeder
Tithe by Holly Black
Vampires:
The Silver Kiss by Annette Curtis Klause
Vampire Kisses by Ellen Schreiber
Marked by P.C. Cast
Demon in My View by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes
In the Forests of the Night by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes
Peeps by Scott Westerfeld
Look for me by Moonlight by Mary Downing Hawn
Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
Vampire Diaries by L.J. Smith
Vampire Knight(Manga Series) by Matsuri Hino
Not Vampires, but Paranormal Romance:
Keturah and Lord Death by Martine Leavitt
A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb
The Mediator Series by Meg Cabot
A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
I Heart You, You Haunt Me by Lisa Schroeder
Tithe by Holly Black
Camelot & King Arthur Booklist
Thanks for the comments! Here's a list of books you might enjoy if you like King Arthur and Camelot:
I Am Morgan le Fey by Nancy Springer
I Am Mordred by Nancy Springer
Avalon High by Meg Cabot
The Seeing Stone by Kevin Crossley-Holland
The Extraordinary Adventures of Alfred Kropp by Rick Yancey
Sword of the Rightful King by Jane Yolen
The Lost Years of Merlin by T.A. Barron
The Book for Mordred by Vivian Van Velde
The telling pool by David Clement-Davies
The lioness & her knight / Gerald Morris
The quest of the Fair Unknown / by Gerald Morris
Suggested by Readers:
Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley
I Am Morgan le Fey by Nancy Springer
I Am Mordred by Nancy Springer
Avalon High by Meg Cabot
The Seeing Stone by Kevin Crossley-Holland
The Extraordinary Adventures of Alfred Kropp by Rick Yancey
Sword of the Rightful King by Jane Yolen
The Lost Years of Merlin by T.A. Barron
The Book for Mordred by Vivian Van Velde
The telling pool by David Clement-Davies
The lioness & her knight / Gerald Morris
The quest of the Fair Unknown / by Gerald Morris
Suggested by Readers:
Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins-TWEEN
Rating: 3/5 Stars
About the Book: Gregor lives with his mom and sisters in an apartment in New York City. His father has been missing for a couple of years now and his family is still adjusting and leaving Gregor as the man of the house. While doing laundry in the basement laundry room, Gregor's two-year-old sister Boots falls down an air chute and Gregor chases after her. They find themselves in the Underland, which is ruled by royalty and their giant bats, and home to talking cockroaches, giant rats, and spiders. Gregor and Boots are taken to the Queen of the Underlanders and learn of a prophecy which Gregor just might be the key to. Gregor embarks on a quest and sets out to save the Underland and hopefully answer questions about his missing father.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Suzanne Collins came up with the premise for the Gregor series when thinking about the Alice in Wonderland story and how that would change if Alice had fallen down a hole in New York City. The premise sounds a little strange and the idea of giant talking bugs at first didn't seem appealing to my buggy-scared self. But, I have to admit that I actually fell in love with the giant cockroaches and bats as well as Gregor and Boots. This is one I listened to on audiobook CD and enjoyed immensly. There are five books in this series, so it's a great pick for fantasy fans wanting something to read after Harry Potter and Percy Jackson.
Thanks for the Comments!:)
Hi all-
Thanks for the comments-I will be posting recommended booklists shortly in answer to all the questions I have recieved.
Also, if you have any good reads that you'd like to tell me about, please share-I love hearing about great books!:)
Thanks for the comments-I will be posting recommended booklists shortly in answer to all the questions I have recieved.
Also, if you have any good reads that you'd like to tell me about, please share-I love hearing about great books!:)
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer-TEEN
Rating: 3/5 Stars
About the book: After her mother's remarriage, Bella Swan decides to move to Forks WA to live with her father. Bella isn't really looking forward to moving to a rainy small town, but soon finds herself drawn to one of her classmates, the mysterious Edward Cullen. Edward feels a strong pull towards Bella as well, but Edward isn't a normal high school student-Edward is a one-hundred year old vampire. Even though Edward and the rest of his family are "vegetarian vampires"-only eating the blood of animals-it doesn't help that Edward is strong and could hurt Bella with one wrong move, plus her scent is very intoxicating. Yet Bella doesn't want to leave Edward and needs to be with him-even if it means risking her life. As Bella grows close to Edward and his family, another vampire coven comes into town and don't like to site of a human being so close to vampires and don't want to play nice.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: This series is huge right now, and with the fourth in the series coming in August and a movie to be released in December, this should be on your summer reading list if you haven't read it already! I will admit that I had to start reading this book twice before really got into it and enjoyed it. I'm not a vampire fan, or a horror story fan, so the idea of this book really freaked me out. But if you're a scaredy cat like me, don't fear-lots of teen angst and forbidden love rule this story and the scary vampire stuff turns out to be not so awful to read-at least the way Stephenie Meyer has written it. I also highly recommend the audiobooks, which are wonderfully done and give a great voice to Bella. Highly recommended to teens and adults.
About the book: After her mother's remarriage, Bella Swan decides to move to Forks WA to live with her father. Bella isn't really looking forward to moving to a rainy small town, but soon finds herself drawn to one of her classmates, the mysterious Edward Cullen. Edward feels a strong pull towards Bella as well, but Edward isn't a normal high school student-Edward is a one-hundred year old vampire. Even though Edward and the rest of his family are "vegetarian vampires"-only eating the blood of animals-it doesn't help that Edward is strong and could hurt Bella with one wrong move, plus her scent is very intoxicating. Yet Bella doesn't want to leave Edward and needs to be with him-even if it means risking her life. As Bella grows close to Edward and his family, another vampire coven comes into town and don't like to site of a human being so close to vampires and don't want to play nice.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: This series is huge right now, and with the fourth in the series coming in August and a movie to be released in December, this should be on your summer reading list if you haven't read it already! I will admit that I had to start reading this book twice before really got into it and enjoyed it. I'm not a vampire fan, or a horror story fan, so the idea of this book really freaked me out. But if you're a scaredy cat like me, don't fear-lots of teen angst and forbidden love rule this story and the scary vampire stuff turns out to be not so awful to read-at least the way Stephenie Meyer has written it. I also highly recommend the audiobooks, which are wonderfully done and give a great voice to Bella. Highly recommended to teens and adults.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandell-Tween/Teen
Rating: 4/5 Stars
About the book: Elaine of Ascolat, The Lady of Shallot, has grown up living with her father and brothers in an army encampment and is used to being the only girl. She swims, runs through the trees, gets her dresses dirty, and counts Arthur, Lancelot and Tristan among her closest friends. Elaine is invalueable to the men of the camp as she is well versed in the healing arts. She also hopes that Lancelot will notice her as a woman and not a silly little girl and believes that Lancelot is her true love. Everything in the camp changes when Gwynivere arrives. She is much prettier than Elaine, is much more girly, and seems to have won the heart of Lancelot, much to Elaine's jealousy. It doesn't help matters that Gwynivere is mean and spitful towards Elaine and any hopes of friendship seem dashed. When Arthur leads the men into a battle against the Saxons, Elaine plans to follow them secretly. Things don't go as planned, and Elaine finds herself needing to change her plans and mend broken relationships in order to be the heroine she knows she can be.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: As a fan of medieval times, I loved the setting and characters found in this book. It is full of legends and made me go to my computer several times to look up more information on these characters. Written in verse, the story flows beautifully and moves almost like a song. Full of romance, adventure and a strong heroine this is a story you won't want to put down-and won't soon forget.
About the book: Elaine of Ascolat, The Lady of Shallot, has grown up living with her father and brothers in an army encampment and is used to being the only girl. She swims, runs through the trees, gets her dresses dirty, and counts Arthur, Lancelot and Tristan among her closest friends. Elaine is invalueable to the men of the camp as she is well versed in the healing arts. She also hopes that Lancelot will notice her as a woman and not a silly little girl and believes that Lancelot is her true love. Everything in the camp changes when Gwynivere arrives. She is much prettier than Elaine, is much more girly, and seems to have won the heart of Lancelot, much to Elaine's jealousy. It doesn't help matters that Gwynivere is mean and spitful towards Elaine and any hopes of friendship seem dashed. When Arthur leads the men into a battle against the Saxons, Elaine plans to follow them secretly. Things don't go as planned, and Elaine finds herself needing to change her plans and mend broken relationships in order to be the heroine she knows she can be.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: As a fan of medieval times, I loved the setting and characters found in this book. It is full of legends and made me go to my computer several times to look up more information on these characters. Written in verse, the story flows beautifully and moves almost like a song. Full of romance, adventure and a strong heroine this is a story you won't want to put down-and won't soon forget.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Angus, Thongs and Full Frontal Snogging by Louise Rennison-TEEN
Rating: 4/5 Stars
About the Book: Georgia Nicolson is trying to navigate through the crazy maze of high school. She has a great group of friends-her Ace Gang-and is in love with the sex god Robbie. Too bad Robbie has a girlfriend, the most beautiful popular girl at Georgia's school. As if high school and love triangles aren't bad enough, Georgia has to deal with her fat cat Angus and her embarrasing three-year-old sister. Georgia's adventures are always full of laughs-whether she intends them to be funny or not. Growing up is never easy, but at least Georgia Nicolson manages to make it fun.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: As Georgia herself would say, this book is "fabbity fab fab!" Written in a diary format, Georgia's adventures are like Bridget Jones for the teen set. Full of fun and goofy situations, Georgia is a hilarious heroine that you cheer for all the way through. Beware of reading this one in public as you are sure to laughing like crazy.
About the Book: Georgia Nicolson is trying to navigate through the crazy maze of high school. She has a great group of friends-her Ace Gang-and is in love with the sex god Robbie. Too bad Robbie has a girlfriend, the most beautiful popular girl at Georgia's school. As if high school and love triangles aren't bad enough, Georgia has to deal with her fat cat Angus and her embarrasing three-year-old sister. Georgia's adventures are always full of laughs-whether she intends them to be funny or not. Growing up is never easy, but at least Georgia Nicolson manages to make it fun.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: As Georgia herself would say, this book is "fabbity fab fab!" Written in a diary format, Georgia's adventures are like Bridget Jones for the teen set. Full of fun and goofy situations, Georgia is a hilarious heroine that you cheer for all the way through. Beware of reading this one in public as you are sure to laughing like crazy.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
The Wedding Planner's Daughter by Coleen Murtagh Paratore -Tween
Rating: 4/5 Stars
About the Book: Twelve year old Willa Havisham reads classics, eats cherry cordials and dreams and wishes for her mom Stella to fall in love. Stella is a glamorous wedding planner, but after the tragic death of her true love and Willa's dad, Stella can't seem to get close to fallng for anyone. When she does, she moves herself and Willa to a new home. This time to duo has made their home in Bramble, Cape Cod and just happen to move in next door to the very handsome and eligable Sam, who is Willa's english teacher. Willa loves Bramble and is making friends, and even finds a crush-worthy boy at her school! She also schemes to get Sam and Stella together. But before long, all the wishing, hoping and dreaming backfires. Can Willa save the day and find her happy ending?
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Willa is such a wonderful charming girl-I think she earns a spot up there with Anne Shirley for big dreamers and hopeless romantics. This book is a good old fashioned story in a modern setting. Willa is spunky and creative and you can't help but root for her to succeed. The setting of Cape Cod adds to the magic of the story, and I wanted to take a vacation to Bramble to hang out with Willa there. With lots of romance and lots of heart, this is the perfect read for a lazy rainy afternoon.
About the Book: Twelve year old Willa Havisham reads classics, eats cherry cordials and dreams and wishes for her mom Stella to fall in love. Stella is a glamorous wedding planner, but after the tragic death of her true love and Willa's dad, Stella can't seem to get close to fallng for anyone. When she does, she moves herself and Willa to a new home. This time to duo has made their home in Bramble, Cape Cod and just happen to move in next door to the very handsome and eligable Sam, who is Willa's english teacher. Willa loves Bramble and is making friends, and even finds a crush-worthy boy at her school! She also schemes to get Sam and Stella together. But before long, all the wishing, hoping and dreaming backfires. Can Willa save the day and find her happy ending?
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Willa is such a wonderful charming girl-I think she earns a spot up there with Anne Shirley for big dreamers and hopeless romantics. This book is a good old fashioned story in a modern setting. Willa is spunky and creative and you can't help but root for her to succeed. The setting of Cape Cod adds to the magic of the story, and I wanted to take a vacation to Bramble to hang out with Willa there. With lots of romance and lots of heart, this is the perfect read for a lazy rainy afternoon.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
About Me
Hello! My name is Sarah and I am a Youth Services Manager who works with kids, tweens and teens. I love being asked about great books to read! I started my blog in 2008 as a way to keep track of what I've been reading and to use a reference tool for reader's advisory and it's grown into much more than I could have ever anticipated. In addition to book reviews, I also enjoy posting audiobook reviews, YA Movie News, booklists and my adventures in being a librarian.
Committees:
2016 Caldecott Award-ALSC-2015
Cybils-Elementary/Middle Grade Speculative Fiction 2014
ALSC Blogger-2013-Present
Youth Services Community of Interest-Missouri Library Association-2013-2016
Audies Judge-2013-2015
2013 Michael L. Printz Committee-YALSA-2012
Fabulous Films Committee-YALSA-2010-2012
Gateway Committee for Missouri Association of School Librarians 2010-2011
Presentations:
Creating and Running a Successful Mock Award Program-Missouri Library Association Conference-2016
Teen Lit Update-Missouri Library Association Conference-2016
Geeky Programming on a Ramen Noodle Budget-American Library Association Annual Conference-2016
Fresh Lit: Crossovers & Crossunders Webinar-LibraryLinkNJ-2016
Teen Lit Update-Kansas and Missouri State Library Association Joint Conference-2015
Teen Lit Update-Missouri Library Association Conference-2014
Table Talk-What Is the Printz Award?-2014
Teen Lit Update-Missouri Library Association Conference-2013
Teen Reader's Advisory-MidContinent Public Library-2013
Connecting Teens with Books and Authors-Missouri Association of School Librarians Conference-2013
Connecting Teens with Books and Authors-Missouri Library Association Conference-2012
Teen Lit Update-Missouri Library Association Conference-2011
Missouri Association of School Librarians State Book Awards-International Reading Association-2011-2014
Teen Lit Update-Missouri Library Association Conference-2010
Various ongoing Reader's Advisory trainings for my library district
Publications:
Passing Notes Column-Public Libraries Journal-2012-2014
Blog Awards:
-2009-Best Reviewer in the People's Choice Blog Awards hosted by Hey, Teenager of the Year
-2009-shortlisted for Best YA Book Blog during Book Blogger Appreciation Week
Guest Posts/Interviews:
-ALSC Blog Posts
-Do It Yourself Spa Day at ALSC Blog
-Caldecott Storytimes Guest Post at ALSC Blog
-Top Five Printz Titles Guest Post at Abby the Librarian
-Guest Post at Bookworming in the 21st Century
-Guest Post at The Book Resort
-Interview at author Amy Brecount White's blog
-Interview at author Holly Schindler's blog
-Interview at My Cozy Book Nook
-Interview at YA Librarian Tales
-Interview at author Amy Brecount White's blog
-Interview at author Holly Schindler's blog
-Interview at My Cozy Book Nook
-Interview at YA Librarian Tales
Additional Links:
-Blog mentioned in Young Adult Literature Blogs list in Read, Remember, Recommend
-Blog Tour quoted in Publisher's Weekly Children's Bookshelf: Ron Koertge: Around the World, Virtually
-Blog Tour quoted on Practically Paradise blog at School Library Journal, Top Teen Titles #96-99
-Web Crush of the Week on Library Journal's Shelfrenewal Blog
-Blog Love on Booklist's Book Group Buzz Blog
-Blog Tour quoted in Publisher's Weekly Children's Bookshelf: Ron Koertge: Around the World, Virtually
-Blog Tour quoted on Practically Paradise blog at School Library Journal, Top Teen Titles #96-99
-Web Crush of the Week on Library Journal's Shelfrenewal Blog
-Blog Love on Booklist's Book Group Buzz Blog
NOTE: The opinions and content of this blog are my own and are not that of my library system. My blog content is my own and not that of any committee or organization I'm involved in.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Saving Zoe by Alyson Noel-TEEN
Rating: 5/5 Stars
About the Book: Echo looked up to her popular, beautiful sister Zoe. But when Zoe is brutally murdered, Echo is left feeling lost and confused. Now a year has passed and the world is moving on around her. Friends are growing up and changing, her parents are still mourning and Echo's not sure how to manage the awkwardness that is high school. Zoe isn't there to guide her, until one day Zoe's boyfriend shows up with her diary and gives it to Echo. Through her sister's diary, Echo learns secrets, lies, what led to her sister's death and ultimately how to move on and grow up.
About the Book: Echo looked up to her popular, beautiful sister Zoe. But when Zoe is brutally murdered, Echo is left feeling lost and confused. Now a year has passed and the world is moving on around her. Friends are growing up and changing, her parents are still mourning and Echo's not sure how to manage the awkwardness that is high school. Zoe isn't there to guide her, until one day Zoe's boyfriend shows up with her diary and gives it to Echo. Through her sister's diary, Echo learns secrets, lies, what led to her sister's death and ultimately how to move on and grow up.
GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: I was originally interested in this book because of the cover that said fans of Veronica Mars would love this. As a VM fan, I had to pick it up and I'm so glad I did! This book is amazing. I feel very passionately that this is a must read. The writing is excellent and the story draws you in. Saving Zoe is a blender book (it's got a little bit of everything-it's got romance, mystery, twists and turns, coming of age, sadness, happiness.) In the beginning, you only know as much about Zoe's death that Echo knows which adds a mystery element of figuring out what happened to Zoe and why. I felt just like Echo and couldn't wait to read more of Zoe's diary and find out more about her life. I couldn't put it down and Zoe and Echo have stayed with me long after finishing the book. If you have a book club, this is a great pick as many interesting discussions can stem from the many topics presented. I would say more but I don't want to give too much away....so get yourself a copy and enjoy reading!
P.S.-Alyson Noel has a blog and a message board and she's great about writing back to her fans-if you read her book, drop her a line-she's fabulous!Thursday, March 13, 2008
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan-TWEEN/TEEN
Rating: 4/5 Stars
About the Book: Percy Jackson has been labled as a bad kid. He's been kicked out of numerous schools, has ADD, and can't seem to stay out of trouble. All this changes when he discovers he's not a bad kid at all-he's just got different wiring because he's actually half greek god and half human! Yep, those ancient greek gods are alive and well and living in New York. So what's newly discovered demigod to do? Spend summer at Camp Halfblood of course! But things are not perfect on Mt. Olympus-Zeus' lightning bolt has been stolen and Percy is the prime suspect. Can Percy stop the brewing war, clear his name and still make it to seventh grade?
Green Bean Teen Queen Says: This was one of my top picks for 2007. It's action packed, full of humor, and the modern twist is a great introduction to greek mythology. This is also a great pick for all you readers who say "but I don't really like reading!" Give the first chapter a try-you'll be hooked! With three books in the series right now and the fourth coming in May(I can't wait!) this is one series you won't want to miss.
About the Book: Percy Jackson has been labled as a bad kid. He's been kicked out of numerous schools, has ADD, and can't seem to stay out of trouble. All this changes when he discovers he's not a bad kid at all-he's just got different wiring because he's actually half greek god and half human! Yep, those ancient greek gods are alive and well and living in New York. So what's newly discovered demigod to do? Spend summer at Camp Halfblood of course! But things are not perfect on Mt. Olympus-Zeus' lightning bolt has been stolen and Percy is the prime suspect. Can Percy stop the brewing war, clear his name and still make it to seventh grade?
Green Bean Teen Queen Says: This was one of my top picks for 2007. It's action packed, full of humor, and the modern twist is a great introduction to greek mythology. This is also a great pick for all you readers who say "but I don't really like reading!" Give the first chapter a try-you'll be hooked! With three books in the series right now and the fourth coming in May(I can't wait!) this is one series you won't want to miss.
The great and wonderful tween and teen book blog!
Well, I've finally done it. I've been wanting to start a book blog for a long time and here I am-finally! Check back often for reviews and booklists of tween and teen books. Post lots of comments-I love to read them!:) And don't forget to keep reading!
Book Reviews
Here is a list of the books I have reviewed on my blog:
(listed in alphabetical order by title)
-Numbers-
1st and Ten: Top Ten Lists of Everythin in Football3 Willows by Ann Brashares
-A-
Across the Pond by Storyheart
The Adventures of Ook and Gluk by Dav Pilkey
Airborn by Kenneth Oppel
Airhead by Meg Cabot
The Alchemyst: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flammel by Michael Scott
All These Things I've Done by Gabrielle Zevin
All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab
The Amaranth Enchantment by Julie Berry
The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin
Amiri and Odette: A Love Story by Walter Dean Myers
Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi
Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
Angus, Thongs and Full Frontal Snogging by Louise Rennison
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
Annie's Adventures (Sisters 8) by Lauren Baratz-Logsted, Greg Logsted & Jackie Logsted
Another Faust by Daniel and Dina Nayeri
Anya's Ghost by Vera Brosgol
Are You There God, It's Me Margaret by Judy Blume
Artichoke's Heart by Suzanne Supplee
Atlantia by Ally Condie
Au Revior, Crazy European Chic by Joe Schrieber
-B-
Bad News for Outlaws by Vaunda Micheaux NelsonBake Sale by Sara Varon
Band Geek Love by Josie Bloss
The Barftastic Life of Louie Berger by Jenny Meyerhoff
Barn Boot Blues by Catherine Friend
Barnaby Grimes: Curse of the Night Wolf by Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell
Bartholomew Biddle and the Very Big Wind by Gary Ross
The Bartimaeus Trilogy by Jonathan Stroud
Bedtime at the Nut House by Eric Litwin
The Bear's Song by Benjamin Chaud
Beautiful by Amy Reed
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
Because I Am Furniture by Thalia Chaltas
Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
Belly Up by Stuart Gibbs
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
Beastly by Alex Flinn
Better Nate Than Every by Tim Federle
Between the Sea and Sky by Jaclyn Dolamore
The Bippolo Seed and Other Lost Stories by Dr. Seuss
The Big Crunch by Pete Hautman
The Big Splash by Jack D. Ferraiolo
The Birthday Ball by Lois Lowry
Black Springs by Allison Croggan
Bleeding Hearts by Alyxandra Harvey
Bless This Mouse by Lois Lowry
Blink and Caution by Tim Wynne Jones
Blood Feud by Alyxandra Harvey
Bloodthirsty by Flynn Meaney
Buffton: My Summer with Buster Keaton by Matt Phelan
Bluebird by Bob Staake
Blue Moon by Alyson Noel
A Blue So Dark by Holly Schindler
The Blue Shoe by Roderick Townley
The Body at the Tower by Y.S. Lee
Bone by Jeff Smith
The Book With a Hole in it by Herve Tullet
Bossypants by Tina Fey
The Boy Project by Kami Kinard
Boys, Girls and Other Hazardous Materials by Rosalind Wiseman
The Boyfriend List by E. Lockhart
Brains for Lunch by K.A. Holt
Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken
Bro-Jitsu by Daniel H. Wilson
Buddy and the Bunnies in: Don't Play With Your Food by Bob Shea
Bye for Now by Kathleen Churchyard
-C-
Calamity Jack by Shannon and Dean Hale, illustrated by Nathan HaleCan I Come Too by Brian Patten
Candor by Pam Bachorz
Captain Nobody by Dean Pitchford
The Capture by Kathryn Lasky
The Cardturner by Louis Sachar
Carter Finally Gets It by Brent Crawford
The Center of Everything by Linda Urban
Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles
Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder
The Chosen One by Carol Lynch Williams
Chu's Day by Neil Gaiman
Clara Lee and the Apple Pie Dream by Jenny Han
Clarity by Kim Harrington
Clementine and the Spring Trip by Sara Pennypacker
The Clockwork Three by Matthew Kirby
Conspiracy 365: January by Gabrielle Lord
Contagious Colors of Mumpley Middle School by Fowler DeWitt
Coraline by Neil Gaiman
Countdown by Deborah Wiles
Courage Has No Color by Tanya Lee Stone
Crave by Laura J. Burns and Melinda Metz
Crazy Beautiful by Lauren Baratz Logsted
Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick
Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban
Cruel Summer by Alyson Noel
Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann
-D-
The Dark by Lemony SnicketThe Dark Divine by Bree Despian
The Dark Emperor and Other Poems of the Night by Joyce Sidman
Dark Mirror by M.J. Putney
Darklight by Lesley Livingston
Dash and Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
Dance of Shadows by Yelena Black
The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder
The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos
Deadweather and Sunrise (The Chronicles of Egg) by Geoff Rodkey
Deception: A Hauting Emma Novel by Lee Nichols
Delilah Durk and the Turkish Leutitenant by Tony Cliff
The Demon King by Cinda Williams Chima
Descent into Paradise by Vincent Karl
Diary of a Witness by Cathrine Ryan Hyde
Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
Divergent by Veronica Roth
Doll Bones by Holly Black
Don't Feed the Boy by Irene Latham
Don't Stop Now by Julie Halpern
Dramarama by E. Lockhart
Drawing From Memory by Allen Say
Dream Girl by Lauren Mechling
Dream Life by Lauren Mechling
Drizzle by Kathleen Van Cleeve
Escape Theory by Margaux Froley
The Eternal Smile by Gene Luen Yang
Eve by Anna Carey
Evermore by Alyson Noel
Everybody Sees the Ants by A.S. King
Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev
Exclusively Chloe by J.A. Yang
-F-
Far From You by Lisa SchroederFat Cat by Robin Brande
Firelight by Sophie Jordan
Five Flavors of Dumb by Antony John
The Five Lives of our Cat Zook by Joanne Rocklin
Flash Burnout by L. K. Madigan
Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo
The Folk Keeper by Franny Billingsley
The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
Forever by Judy Blume
Forget Her Nots by Amy Brecount White
Forget Me Not (From the Life of Willa Havisham) by Colleen Murtagh Paratore
Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick
The Fourth Stall by Chris Rylander
Found (The Missing Book 1) by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Freefall by Anna Levine
Frog Song by Brenda Z. Guiberson
From the Mixed up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
-G-
Get Well Soon by Julie HalpernGhostgirl by Tonya Hurley
Ghostgirl: Homecoming by Tonya Hurley
Giants Beware by Jorge Aguiree and Rafael Rosado
The Glorkian Warrior Delivers a Pizza by James Kochalka
Glow by Amy Kathleen Ryan
Goddess Girls by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams
Going Bovine by Libba Bray
Going Too Far by Jennifer Echols
Going Vintage by Lindsey Leavitt
Gone by Lisa McMann
Gone Fishing by Tamera Will Wissinger
Gothic Lolita by Dakota Lane
Grace by Elizabeth Scott
Graceling by Kristin Cashore
The Grand Plan to Fix Everything by Uma Kishnaswami
Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins
-H-
Hate List by Jennifer BrownHattie Ever After by Kirby Larson
Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey
Have You Seen My Dragon by Steve Light
Hearts at Stake by Alyxandra Harvey
He's With Me (I Heart Bikinis) by Tamara Summers
Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins
Hidden by Helen Frost
Hide and Seek by Katy Grant
Hold Still by Nina LaCour
The Hole in the Wall by Lisa Rowe Fraustino
The Hot List by Hillary Homzie
Hound Dog True by Linda Urban
Hourglass by Myra McEntire
How to Build a House by Dana Reinhardt
How to Trap a Zombie, Track a Vampire and Other Hands-On Activities for Monster Hunters by A.R. Rotruck
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Hush by Eishes Chayil
Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Hysteria by Megan Miranda
-I-
I So Don't Do Makeup by Barrie Summy
Ice by Sarah Beth Durst
If I Grow Up by Todd Strasser
If I Stay by Gayle Forman
If You Find Me by Emily Murdoch
Incantation by Alice Hoffman
Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai
Instructions for a Broken Heart by Kim Cullbertson
Into the Dark by Bree Despain
Into the Wild Nerd Yonder by Julie Halpern
The Invisible Order: Rise of the Darklings by Paul Crilley
It's a Tiger by David LaRochelle
-J-
Jellaby by Kean SooJellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
Journey by Aaron Becker
Just Grace and the Snack Attack by Charise Mericle Harper
Just One Day by Gayle Forman
-K-
The Karma Club by Jessica BrodyKeeper by Kathi Appelt
Keeper of the Grail by Michael Spradlin
The King Who Wouldn't Sleep by Debbie Singleton
Kissing Booth by Lexie Hill
Knuckle and Potty Destroy Happy World by James Proimos
-L-
The Last Summer of the Death Warriors by Francisco X. StorkLemonade and Other Poems Squeezed From a Single Word by Bob Rackza
Let It Snow by Maureen Johson, John Green, and E. Lockhart
Liar by Justine Larbalestier
Liar & Spy by Rebecca Stead
Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
Linger by Maggie Stiefvater
A Little Book of Sloths by Lucy Cooke
Lips Touch: Three Times by Laini Taylor
Locomotive by Brian Floca
Looking for Alaska by John Green
Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg
Look Up! Birdwatching In Your Own Backyard by Annette LeBlanc Cate
Lost by Jacqueline Davies
Love, Aubrey by Suzanne LaFleur
Love Com (Manga)
Lovestruck Summer by Melissa Walker
Low Red Moon by Ivy Devlin
Lulu and the Dog From the Sea by Hilary McKay
Lulu and the Duck in the Park by Hilary McKay
The Luxe by Anna Godbersen
-M-
Mad Love by Suzanne SelforsMagic Marks the Spot by Caroline Carlson
Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore
The Map of Me by Tamy Lewis Brown
Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco X. Stork
Masters of Disaster by Gary Paulsen
May B by Caroline Starr Rose
Meanwhile by Jason Shiga
Medina Hill by Trilby Kent
Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac by Gabrielle Zevin
Middleworld (The Jaguar Stones) by J & P Voelkel
Mimi by John Newman
Missing on Superstition Mountain by Elise Broach
Mistwood by Leah Cypess
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
Moonglass by Jessi Kirby
Moonstone by Marilee Brothers
Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool
Morpheus Road: The Light by D.J. MacHale
The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg by Rodman Philbrick
Mr. and Mrs. Bunny-Detectives Extraordinare by Polly Horvath
Mr. Tiger Goes Wild by Peter Brown
My Most Excellent Year: A Novel of Love, Mary Poppins and Fenway Park by Steve Kluger
My Soul to Take by Rachel Vincent
My Soul to Save by Rachel Vincent
The Mysterious Case of the Allbright Academy by Diane Stanley
-N-
The Naughty List by Suzanne YoungA Nest for Celeste by Henry Cole
Nice and Mean by Jessica Leader
The Night Fairy by Laura Amy Schiltz
A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly
Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong by Prudence Shen and Faith Erin Hicks
-O-
On the Bright Side, I'm now the Girlfriend of a Sex God by Louise RennisonOne Crazy Sumer by Rita Williams
One for the Murphys by Lynda Mulllaly Hunt
The Orchestra Pit by Johanna Wright
Orleans by Sherri L. Smith
Otto in the City by Tom Schamp
Our Only May Amelia by Jennifer Holm
Out for Blood by Alyxandra Harvey
Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper
-P-
Page by Paige by Laura Lee GulledgePalace Beautiful by Sarah Deford Williams
Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
Past Perfect by Leila Sales
Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles
Perchance to Dream by Lisa Mantchev
Pig and Small by Alex Latimer
Pilot and Huxley by Dan McGuiness
The Pillow Book of Lotus Lowenstien by Libby Schmais
Planet Middle School by Nikki Grimes
Playing With Matches by Brian Katcher
Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King
Poop Happened by Sarah Albee
Popularity Papers by Amy Ignatow
The Possibilities of Sainthood by Donna Freitas
Prada and Prejudice by Mandy Hubbard
The Princess and the Pig by Jonathan Emmett
Princess Ben by Catherine Gilbert Murdock
Princess Diaries Series by Meg Cabot
Princess of the Wild Swans by Diane Zahler
The Probability of Miracles by Wendy Wunder
The Problem with Being Slightly Heroic by Uma Krisnaswami
Project Sweet Life by Brent Hartinger
Prom by Laurie Halse Anderson
Prom & Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg
Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink
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Queen of Secrets by Jenny MeyerhoffQueen of the Falls by Chris Van Allsburg
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Radiant Darkness by Emily WhitmanRage by Jackie Morse KesslerRead, Remember, Recommend for Teens
Real Mermaids Don't Need High Heels by Helene Boudreau
Reality Boy by A. S. King
Reality Check by Peter Abrahams
Reinvention of Edison Thomas by Jacqueline Houtman
Revolver by Marcus SedgwickRevolution by Jennifer Donnelly
Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
The Ring and the Crown by Melissa de la Cruz
The Rise of Aurora West by David West
Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles
Runaway by Meg Cabot
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Sand Chronicles (Manga)
Save the Date by Tamara Summers
Saving Zoe by Alyson Noel
Scaredy Kat (Suddenly Supernatural) by Elizabeth Cody Kimmel
Scott Pilgrim's Precious Little Life by Bryan Lee O'Malley
The Scraps Book by Lois Ehlert
See You At Harry's by Jo Knowles
Sea by Heidi Kling
Secrets at Sea by Richard Peck
Sean Griswold's Head by Lindsey Leavitt
The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Shadowland by Alyson Noel
Shakespeare Bats Cleanup by Ron Koertge
Shakespeare Makes the Playoffs by Ron Koertge
Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Skeleton Creek by Patrick Carman
The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
Sleeping Beauty's Daughter by Diane Zahler
Sleepless by Terri Clark
Slept Away by Julie Kraut
So Not Happening by Jenny B. Jones
Something Happened by Greg Logsted
Something, Maybe by Elizabeth Scott
Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandell
Spaceheadz by Jon Scieszka
A Spy in the House by Y.S. Lee
Small Town Sinners by Melissa Walker
Smash Trial by Fire by Chris A. Bolton
Stanley the Builder by William Bee
Stanley's Garage by William Bee
Stardines by Jack Prelutsky
The Star Maker by Laurence Yep
Star Wars: Jedi Academy by Jeffrey Brown
The Stolen One by Suzanne Crowley
The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger
Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman
Sucks to be Me by Kimberly Pauley
Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson
Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow by Jessica Day George
Suspect by Kristin Wolden Nitz
Save the Date by Tamara Summers
Saving Zoe by Alyson Noel
Scaredy Kat (Suddenly Supernatural) by Elizabeth Cody Kimmel
Scott Pilgrim's Precious Little Life by Bryan Lee O'Malley
The Scraps Book by Lois Ehlert
See You At Harry's by Jo Knowles
Sea by Heidi Kling
Secrets at Sea by Richard Peck
Sean Griswold's Head by Lindsey Leavitt
The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Shadowland by Alyson Noel
Shakespeare Bats Cleanup by Ron Koertge
Shakespeare Makes the Playoffs by Ron Koertge
Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Skeleton Creek by Patrick Carman
The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
Sleeping Beauty's Daughter by Diane Zahler
Sleepless by Terri Clark
Slept Away by Julie Kraut
So Not Happening by Jenny B. Jones
Something Happened by Greg Logsted
Something, Maybe by Elizabeth Scott
Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandell
Spaceheadz by Jon Scieszka
A Spy in the House by Y.S. Lee
Small Town Sinners by Melissa Walker
Smash Trial by Fire by Chris A. Bolton
Stanley the Builder by William Bee
Stanley's Garage by William Bee
Stardines by Jack Prelutsky
The Star Maker by Laurence Yep
Star Wars: Jedi Academy by Jeffrey Brown
The Stolen One by Suzanne Crowley
The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger
Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman
Sucks to be Me by Kimberly Pauley
Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson
Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow by Jessica Day George
Suspect by Kristin Wolden Nitz
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A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz
Tales of a Sixth Grade Muppet by Kirk Scroggs
Tangled by Carolyn Mackler
Tales of a Sixth Grade Muppet by Kirk Scroggs
Tangled by Carolyn Mackler
The Tear Collector by Patrick Jones
Tell Me a Secret by Holly Cupala
That is Not a Good Idea by Mo Willems
Tell Me a Secret by Holly Cupala
That is Not a Good Idea by Mo Willems
This is Me From Now On by Barbara Dee
Time For Kids Big Book of How: 501 Facts Kids Want to Know
To Be Perfectly Honest by Sonya Sones
To Catch a Mermaid by Suzanne Selfors
Too Shy for Show and Tell by Beth Bracken
Time For Kids Big Book of How: 501 Facts Kids Want to Know
To Be Perfectly Honest by Sonya Sones
To Catch a Mermaid by Suzanne Selfors
Too Shy for Show and Tell by Beth Bracken
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Unearthly by Cynthia Hand
Unicorn Thinks He's Pretty Great by Bob Shea
The Unsigned Valentine: And Other Events in the Life of Emma Mead by Johanna Hurwitz
The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann
Unicorn Thinks He's Pretty Great by Bob Shea
The Unsigned Valentine: And Other Events in the Life of Emma Mead by Johanna Hurwitz
The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann
-V-
Vampire Diaries: The Awakening by L.J. Smith
Vampire Diaries: The Struggle by L.J. Smith
Variant by Robinson Wells
Vampire Diaries: The Struggle by L.J. Smith
Variant by Robinson Wells
-W-
The Wedding Planner's Daughter by Colleen Murtagh Paratore
The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt
What's Your Status by Katie Finn
The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt
What's Your Status by Katie Finn
Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston
Wonkenstein: The Creature From My Closet by Obert Skye
A Wrinkle in Time Graphic Novel by Hope Larson
Wonkenstein: The Creature From My Closet by Obert Skye
A Wrinkle in Time Graphic Novel by Hope Larson
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-Z-
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