Unbreakable by Kami Garcia

Title: Unbreakable
Author: Kami Garcia
Pages: 305
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 9780316210171
Publication Date: October 1, 2013
AR Levels: Book Level - 4.9, Interest Level - 9th-12th, Points - 9.0
Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12371862-unbreakable

In a nutshell: Kennedy Waters returns home from a night out with friends to find her mother dead from supposed heart failure, but weeks later, that theory is put to the test when two strange and gorgeous twin boys break into her home and save Kennedy from a malevolent spirit on her last night before her aunt ships her off to boarding school. Can she trust Jared and Lukas Lockhart? Besides saving her life, they seem to know more about her and her mother than even Kennedy does herself, and soon she's caught up in a world of secret societies and supernatural entities in a search to find her mother's killer and discover who she really is.

I'd recommend it to grades: 8 and up

I'd recommend it to: fans of Supernatural, Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments series, and paranormal romance

What I liked most about this book: Just when I thought I was totally over paranormal romance, this came along. Kennedy is an excellent blend of strength and self doubt, and the romance in this one is electric but still tame enough for younger readers. Jared and Lukas are swoon-worthy, not-quite-carbon copies of my favorite flannel-clad demon hunter brothers; there's just the right amount of Sam and Dean Winchester in them...right down to their salt bullets and army jackets. In fact, there are quite a few tips of the hat to Supernatural but not so many that it feels tired. Plus, the Legion crew is rounded out by a kick-butt voodoo expert girl and a kid genius inventor boy who reminds me of Leo from the Heroes of Olympus series; they're a healthy and complex batch of characters. This is a fresh addition to the genre, and I cannot wait to read books 2 and 3. Side note: I actually listened to the audiobook, and it rocked. Props to narrator Candice Accola for the excellent interpretation.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): At one point, Kennedy and the Legion gang encounter a haunted well, and it's terrifyingly Ring-like. I had chillbumps for sure.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars!!!

El Deafo by Cece Bell

Title: El Deafo
Author: Cece Bell
Pages: 248
Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
ISBN: 9781419710209
Publication Date: September 2, 2014
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20701984-el-deafo

In a nutshell: As a preschooler, Cece Bell loses most of her hearing after suffering from meningitis. This graphic memoir follows Cece's journey through elementary school as a hearing-impaired child. Along the way, she navigates the ups and downs of friendships, first crushes, and family relationships and comes to discover that her deafness (and her ultra powerful hearing aid, the Phonic Ear) might just be her superpower. It's a delightfully funny snapshot into the life of a hearing-impaired girl that is sure to charm you.

I'd recommend it to grades: 4 to 6

I'd recommend it to: graphic novels fans and anyone who enjoyed Raina Telgemeier's Smile

What I liked most about this book: This book is completely adorable. Not only does it tackle a subject that doesn't get much attention in children's literature, but it's just a fun story too! I learned quite a lot about the deaf community and hearing-impaired people and fell in love with the characters too. The underlying theme of accepting others' differences is woven throughout the plot in a way that will get the point across in an affective but subtle way. Upper elementary kids are going to eat this up for its humor and heart. Fun side note: Cece Bell is married to Tom Angleberger, author of the Origami Yoda series!

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Cece's Phonic Ear hearing aid has a microphone for her teachers to wear so that Cece can understand their words better. When Cece realizes just how powerful the microphone is, it makes for some hilarious moments involving her teachers. Let's just say, they think they're out of earshot, but they're not, and Cece overhears some private moments that would mortify them if they found out. All good fun. :)

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars

The Vanishing Season by Jodi Lynn Anderson

Title: The Vanishing Season
Author: Jodi Lynn Anderson
Pages: 256
Publisher: HarperTeen
ISBN: 9780062003270
Publication Date: July 1, 2014
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18634726-the-vanishing-season

In a nutshell: Maggie and her parents move to the small town of Gill Creek just as autumn is fading into winter, and as it disappears, so are local girls. Amid a backdrop of snow, fear, and paranoia, friendship and love blossom on Water Street when Maggie meets her neighbors, Pauline and Liam, but the trio will discover just how harsh winter and relationships can be.

I'd recommend it to grades: 10 and up

I'd recommend it to: anyone who likes their romance with a dash of eeriness and fans of We Were Liars

What I liked most about this book: Besides the fact that I am always, always, always enamored with Jodi Lynn Anderson's haunting writing style (If you haven't read Tiger Lily, DO IT NOW!), this one drew me in with its rich characters and keep-you-guessing twists. It's a beautifully disturbing mash-up of The Great Gatsby and The Lovely Bones. There's a coldness to it that lures you from page one. I feel like I read it in the wrong season though. It's the perfect read for a long winter's night or a snow day.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): There's way too much to accidentally give away here, so I'll just say that part of what grabbed me from the beginning was the description of Maggie's house on Water Street, which was built in the 1800s and, much like the characters in the novel, is both broken and beautiful.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars

Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo

Title: Ruin and Rising
Author: Leigh Bardugo
Pages: 417
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.
ISBN: 9780805094619 
Publication Date: June 17, 2014
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14061957-ruin-and-rising

In a nutshell: Deep in the bowels of the White Cathedral, Alina and her band of ragtag Grisha stand as the only hope to defeating The Darkling and saving Ravka, but doing so involves a dangerous quest to find the remaining amplifier, the elusive firebird, and Alina may have to sacrifice nearly everything to save her world.

I'd recommend it to grades: 10 and up (violence and romantic content)

I'd recommend it to: high fantasy fans and anyone who loves a good old-fashioned romantic adventure with a kick-butt heroine

What I liked most about this book: Leigh Bardugo has a way of weaving pain, humor, adventure, and beauty throughout every element of a story: the language, the setting, the characters, the plot; it's all just spectacular. It's been a while since I've been satisfied with the ending of a series I've grown to love, and this one did not disappoint. It's sheer perfection, and now I want to go back and reread them all from the beginning. I'm just going to say it; it's my favorite YA series since Harry Potter. I know no greater compliment. :)

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): There's so much I can't say because I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just leave this gorgeous passage here: "Maybe love was superstition, a prayer we said to keep the truth of loneliness at bay. I tilted my head back. The stars looked like they were close together, when really they were millions of miles apart. In the end, maybe love just meant longing for something impossibly bright and forever out of reach" (234).

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): ALL THE STARS!!!

Rebel Belle by Rachel Hawkins

Title: Rebel Belle
Author: Rachel Hawkins
Pages: 345
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
ISBN: 9780399256936
Publication Date: April 8, 2014
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8475505-rebel-belle

In a nutshell: Harper Price is a hardworking, overachieving junior who's already Student Government President and poised to become Homecoming Queen and possibly valedictorian in a small Alabama town, but on the night of the homecoming dance, a seemingly harmless beauty faux pas will put her on a path toward her true destiny - a destiny she's not completely willing to accept...especially since it involves pain-in-her-side, school newspaper reporter David Stark. Cotillion is the least of her worries now...or is it?

I'd recommend it to grades: 9 and up

I'd recommend it to: fans of Beautiful Creatures and Buffy the Vampire Slayer

What I liked most about this book: This book is like red velvet cake - dramatic, blood-red, sweet, sassy, deliciously Southern, and a complete guilty pleasure. While the supporting characters are a bit flat, the main characters (especially Harper) are completely loveable (I'm probably more like Harper than I care to admit, and I always have a soft spot for the nerd boys/Davids of this world.), and the small Southern town setting is dead-on. There's romance, danger, humor, a healthy but light-handed dose of the paranormal, so there's something everyone is sure to like. Bring on book 2!

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): This book is filled with Southernisms, and the one that made me laugh out loud the longest was how Harper's aunts, affectionately called "The Aunts," use peroxide as a cure-all for every ailment no matter how severe. As a Mississippian, I will tell you that this was ingrained in me from birth, and I still keep a giant bottle under the sink. You never know when you might need it! ;)

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars

Cress by Marissa Meyer

Title: Cress
Author: Marissa Meyer
Pages: 550
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
ISBN: 9780312642976
Publication Date: February 4, 2014
AR Levels: Book Level - 6.0, Interest Level - 6th and up, Points: 22.0
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13206828-cress

In a nutshell: Lunar-born hacker Cress has been held captive on a satellite orbiting Earth for many, many years, longing to experience it for herself, but when her opportunity for freedom arrives, it doesn't quite play out the way she always imagined. This Rapunzel re-imagination will leave you breathless and dying for book four.

I'd recommend it to grades: 8 and up

I'd recommend it to: obviously fans of the other Lunar Chronicles books but also sci-fi lovers and fairytale enthusiasts

What I liked most about this book: Oh my stars! Just when I go and think Marissa Meyer couldn't possibly top the awesome that is Scarlet, this comes out and blows my mind! I thought surely I wouldn't love any new character as much as I love all of the ones already present in this series, but I was so wrong. Cress is sweet, kind, hopeful, imaginative, and smart, and she's got some major hacker skills. She might be my new favorite. The other characters we've already met shine here too...especially Captain Carswell Thorne. He undergoes some major character development, and now he's my newest book boyfriend. ;) To say that this one is a page-turner would be a gross understatement; there's heart-pounding adventure on every page, and plenty of humor mixed in too. This series is truly setting itself up to be one of my favorite YA series EVER, and I don't say that lightly. It all hangs on book four, Winter, which is out in Feb. 2015, but I'm confident I will adore it too. Now I wait...

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Anything I say about the plot here would be way too spoiler-y, so instead allow me too ooh and aah over the cover for a moment. All the covers for this series have been beautiful, but this one is just gorgeous! 

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars (It's my favorite of the series thus far too.)

Revolution by Deborah Wiles

Title: Revolution
Author: Deborah Wiles
Pages: 544
Publisher: Scholastic Press
ISBN: 9780545106078
Publication Date: May 27, 2014 (I received an ARC of this title from the publisher via NetGalley.)
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18527498-revolution

In a nutshell: It gets quite steamy in Greenwood, Mississippi in the summertime, and in the summer of 1964, three children break into the city pool for a midnight dip, and they have no idea how that one act will end up entwining their lives for the rest of the summer. Told through the eyes of a white girl and an African-American boy, Revolution is a tale of standing up for what's right, realizing that family and friendship come in many forms, and learning to rise above pain and embrace love.

I'd recommend it to grades: 5 and up (for intense racial situations, violence, and use of the "n" word in context)

I'd recommend it to: American history teachers, historical fiction lovers, and Scout Finch fans ;)

What I liked most about this book: I adored Countdown, so I had very high expectations for this one (especially since we had to wait 4 years for it!), and it still managed to exceed them. The dual narration of Sunny and Raymond is genius (as is the book design - Her pages are white and his are darker.), and it truly helps you see what life is like from the perspective of both races. Just as in Countdown, the author mixes in actual photographs and speeches from 1964 and Freedom Summer, which adds a richness to the story. 

As a Mississippi girl, it's painful for me to read books like this sometimes, but it also makes me glad to see how far we've come. It amazes me that all this takes place a mere 20 years before I was born, and it makes me wonder what I would have done if I'd been alive in those dark days. This is turning out to be one fantastic trilogy and maybe even some of the best historical fiction books for kids I've ever read, and I cannot wait for book three. I predict it'll be about Vietnam.

The biggest compliment I can give this book is that it's like To Kill a Mockingbird for kids. 

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): This gem from Sunny's stepmother Annabelle: "I think love is a mystery," says Annabelle. "We never know where it may come from or how it may surprise us or when it may ask us to do the impossible. But we know one thing about love. It is steady. It is brave."

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars

Blackbird by Anna Carey

Title: Blackbird
Author: Anna Carey
Pages: 256
Publisher: HarperTeen
ISBN: 9780062299734
Publication Date: September 16, 2014 (I received an ARC of this title from the publisher via Edelweiss.)
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20483089-blackbird

In a nutshell: What would you do if you woke up on a subway track with a train coming? What if you had no clue who you are or how you got there, and what if the only thing you knew was that someone is trying to kill you? Such is the premise for this insanely creative second-person thriller by the author of the Eve trilogy.

I'd recommend it to grades: 10 and up (for language and romantic situations)

I'd recommend it to: adrenaline junkies and mystery fans

What I liked most about this book: I couldn't put this one down, guys. I read it in one sitting. That second-person puts you right in the thick of the action, and it's a twisted race from start to finish. For a girl who has no clue who she is, the nameless protagonist is impressively self sufficient and basically kicks major butt, making the most of a dire situation. Nothing is as it seems in this thriller, and you can't trust anyone! I don't know how I'll wait for book two in this duology.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): It's next to impossible for me to tell you nearly anything about this one without spoiling something, so you're just going to have to take my word that it's awesome and read it. :)

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars 

Jackaby by William Ritter

Title: Jackaby
Author: William Ritter
Pages: 304
Publisher: Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill
ISBN: 9781616203535
Publication Date: September 16th, 2014 (I received an ARC of this title from the publisher via Edelweiss.)
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20312462-jackaby

In a nutshell: When adventurer Abigail Rook answers a job posting in the seemingly sleepy town of New Fiddleham in New England, she's introduced to Mr. R.F. Jackaby, a man who uses his special gift and his incredible intellect to solve crimes with a touch of the paranormal. Can Abigail and Jackaby solve a string of vicious murders before their own lives are put in danger?

I'd recommend it to grades: 7 and up (for the gory crime scenes)

I'd recommend it to: fans of Doctor Who and Sherlock and historical fiction and horror readers

What I liked most about this book: The characters in this one are exquisite. The entire time I was reading this, I kept picturing Johnny Depp as Jackaby, and it was cracking me up. He's the perfect blend of quirky and genius. There are times where his smarts blow your mind, and in the next instant, he's making you smirk with his sarcasm or awkwardness. Abigail holds her own as the narrator too. She's whip smart herself, and her personality compliments Jackaby well. There's not really much of a romantic chemistry between them, and I'm okay with that...for now anyway. ;) I hope this will be a series because they have plenty of room to grow their friendship and solve more paranormal cases. 

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Jackaby makes breakfast in a mad scientist kind of way, confusing gunpowder for paprika and exploding some eggs in the process. Hilarious.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars

March: Book One by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin and Illustrated by Nate Powell

Title: March: Book One
Authors: John Lewis and Andrew Aydin (Illustrated by Nate Powell*)
Pages: 128
Publisher: Top Shelf Productions
ISBN: 9781603093002
Publication Date: August 13, 2013
AR Levels: Book Level - 4.6, Interest Level - 4th-8th grades, Points: 1.0
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17346698-march

In a nutshell: This 2014 Coretta Scott King Honor Book is the first of a trilogy chronicling the life of Congressman John Lewis, the Civil Rights Movement hero, in graphic novel format. Book one highlights his childhood and the beginning of his involvement with the Civil Rights Movement, including his participation in the non-violent movement and the sit-in demonstrations.

I'd recommend it to grades: 8 and up (for intense situations and use of the "n" word in context)

I'd recommend it to: American history teachers, students who love graphic novels and history, and fans of Marjane Satrapi's Persepolis

What I liked most about this book: I'll be honest; I'm not a huge fan of non-fiction, which is mostly why we don't review a lot of it here, but I am always up for reading graphic non-fiction, especially biographies, and this one impressed me greatly. There's something about seeing a person's life illustrated on the page that brings it alive, and this one is an excellent example of how artwork can make someone's life story so much more engaging and impactful. By seeing images of these sit-ins and not just reading about them, you can truly feel the tension and the courage it took for Lewis and his fellow protestors to stay true to their non-violent commitment. I was moved in more ways than one, and I even learned a few new things I had never known about the Civil Rights Movement. I can't wait for the other two books.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Lewis notes that his librarian played a large role in his life and encouraged him to read whatever he could get his hands on. :) Yay, libraries!

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars

*It also noted in the back of this book that Nate Powell is currently working on the graphic novel adaptation of Rick Riordan's The Lost Hero! Get excited!

Tsarina by J. Nelle Patrick

Title: Tsarina
Author: J. Nelle Patrick
Pages: 352
Publisher: Razorbill
ISBN: 9781595146939
Publication Date: February 27, 2014
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18079793-tsarina

In a nutshell: Amid the stirrings of the Bolshevik Revolution, Natalya is falling in love with Tsarevich Alexei Romanov, and he entrusts her with his family's biggest secret, a Faberge egg that protects the royal family. Will it be enough to save their way of life, their future together, and their lives? The fate of her country rests in Natalya's hands, and she can't trust anyone.

I'd recommend it to grades: 8 and up (for mild language and mostly off-screen violence)

I'd recommend it to: fans of the Grisha trilogy by Leigh Bardugo

What I liked most about this book: This beautifully descriptive historical fantasy captures this period in history like I've never read before. I felt completely transported to Russia in the wake of the Bolshevik Revolution. The ending left a bit to be desired, but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed it. What an adventure! And I absolutely want to go to Russia even more now!

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): The book opens with a gorgeous description of a ball at the Winter Palace. It hooked me instantly; I could hear the music and see the sparkling jewels and shiny dresses. It was magical.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars

The Hero's Guide to Being an Outlaw by Christopher Healy

Title: The Hero's Guide to Being an Outlaw
Author: Christopher Healy
Pages: 528
Publisher: Walden Pond Press
ISBN: 9780062118486
Publication Date: April 29, 2014*
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18635036-the-hero-s-guide-to-being-an-outlaw

In a nutshell: All is not well in the Thirteen Kingdoms, and things are not so great for the League of Princes either. Wrongfully accused of murdering Princess Briar Rose, Liam, Gustav, Frederic, and Duncan are on the run from the law in this third and final League of Princes book. In addition to trying to prove their innocence, the Princes must once again save their kingdoms from a nefarious plot with the help of a few new (and hilarious) characters too!

I'd recommend it to grades: 3 to 7

I'd recommend it to: fans of the first two books (obviously) and kids who like a dash of slapstick with their sword fighting

What I liked most about this book: I don't think it's much of a spoiler to tell you that there are PIRATES in this one considering what's on the cover, but yes...PIRATES! The Princes are back and better than ever, and their lady friends share a considerable amount of the spotlight too! There's something to delight guys and gals alike in this conclusion, and it's still perfect for a middle school read-aloud.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): This might be a tad bit spoiler-y, but I'll tell you that there's a new female character we meet in prison. Her name? Val Jeanval. Her crime? Stealing a loaf of bread. ;) #LesMis

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 swashbuckling stars!

*I received an ARC of this title from the publisher via Edelweiss.

The Unbound by Victoria Schwab

Title: The Unbound
Author: Victoria Schwab
Pages: 368
Publisher: Hyperion
ISBN: 9781423178200
Publication Date: January 28, 2014
AR Levels: Book Level - 5.2, Interest Level - 9th-12, Points: 15.0
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13638131-the-unbound

In a nutshell: In this sequel to The Archived, Mackenzie Bishop is still coping with the aftereffects of what happened on the roof of the Coronado and struggling to find normalcy as she begins her junior year at Hyde School, a fancy private school where she just wants to keep a low profile and move on with her life and her job as a Keeper. But when people around her start disappearing and she continues to have all-too-realistic nightmares about Owen, the History who almost ended her life and Wesley's, Mackenzie must solve the mystery before everything around her begins to go to pieces, and she'll have to question everything she trusts about the Archive in order to do so.

I'd recommend it to grades: 9 and up (for violence and mild language)

I'd recommend it to: fans of the Beautiful Creatures series and anyone who loves a good mystery

What I like most about this book: I fell in love with the world of this book series when I read The Archived, and I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. It DID NOT disappoint. Wow. I'm still amazed by the sheer creativity and uniqueness of the concept of this series, and this second book delves deeper into the characters' emotions and motivations while still maintaining page-turning suspense in every chapter. Plus, there's a healthy dose of will-they-won't-they between Wesley and Mackenzie. Their chemistry is undeniable and age-appropriate. The author has said she plans to write a third novel, but there's no official publication date or any other information, and with the bomb she dropped at the end of this one, I sure hope we'll hear something more definite soon because I am so not ready to leave this series behind.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): All the parts with Wesley Ayers. All. Of. Them. ;) Add him to my very long list of book boyfriends.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars 

Sorta Like a Rock Star by Matthew Quick

Title: Sorta Like a Rock Star
Author: Matthew Quick
Pages: 355
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Publication Date: January 1, 2010
AR Levels: Book Level - 5.4, Interest Level - 6th and up, Points: 10.0
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6763730-sorta-like-a-rock-star

In a nutshell: Even though Amber Appleton and her mom have recently been kicked out of her mom's boyfriend's apartment, forcing them to live in her mom's big yellow school bus (affectionately called "Hello Yellow"), Amber refuses to let life get her down. Between teaching English and R&B tunes to the Korean Divas for Christ, volunteering at the Methodist retirement home, befriending a lonely haiku-writing Vietnam War veteran, caring for her rescued pup Bobby Big Boy (a.k.a. BBB, 3B, or Thrice B), and leading the Marketing Club (a.k.a. The Five or Franks Freak Force Federation), Amber stays busy spreading the joy all over the down of Childress. But when an unspeakable tragedy strikes her, will she be able to remain optimistic and still reign as the "Princess of Hope?"

I'd recommend it to grades: 10 and up

I'd recommend it to: John Green fans and hopefully optimistic types ;)

What I like most about this book: Amber isn't sorta like a rock star; she IS a rock star! I haven't met a character quite like her before, but it's a breath of fresh air to read about a teen character who's not angst-ridden and moody but instead hopeful and uplifting. Amber deals with some serious pain and depression, as well as having a crisis of faith, making her one of the most-developed characters I've read in a while. You will adore her adorkableness, lightness, and honesty. You'll laugh out loud at her and cry with her, and you'll be thinking about this book days after you read it. 

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Any of the parts with Bobby Big Boy. He is one rock star of a canine sidekick.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 rockin' stars!

Will O' the Wisp by Tom Hammock, Illustrated by Megan Hutchison

Title: Will O' the Wisp
Author: Tom Hammock (with illustrations by Megan Hutchison)
Pages: 216
Publisher: Archaia Entertainment
Publication Date: January 28, 2014
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18125353-will-o-the-wisp

In a nutshell: When Aurora's parents die from accidentally ingesting poisonous mushrooms, she moves to the swamps of Louisiana to live with her strange grandfather in his dilapidated mansion on a mysterious, foggy island, which holds more than a few secrets. Can Aurora use her newly-acquired hoodoo talents to save the island from a deadly threat?

I'd recommend it for grades: 8th and up

I'd recommend it to: fans of the Beautiful Creatures series or Coraline

What I liked most about this book: The illustrations are just gorgeous; they're equally enchanting and eerie, and the entire cast of characters is a loveable group. Aurora's a strong female lead; she's both curious and clever, and she's extremely brave. I'm a big fan of hers...even if she doesn't like grits. (WHAT?!!! *shaking my head*) Missy the pet raccoon has to be my favorite supporting character too. Who doesn't want a pet raccoon?

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): I told you I loved Missy the raccoon, and it's hilarious how it takes her a while to warm up to Aurora. The moment when she finally does, you see her curled up on Aurora's bed, and it's adorable. :) I hope Aurora, Missy, and the gang will be back for more!

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars

*I received a copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

The Queen of Hearts: The Crown by Colleen Oakes

Title: Queen of Hearts: The Crown (Volume One)
Author: Colleen Oakes
Pages: 205
Publisher: SparkPress
Publication Date: February 14, 2014
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20410977-queen-of-hearts

In a nutshell: Princess Dinah of Wonderland is destined to be the Queen of Hearts, but her road to the throne is shaping up to be a rocky one. Her father, the King of Hearts, is truly evil, and it's unclear whether his attitude toward her is disappointment or pure hate, and when he reveals a sinister part of his past, their relationship will become even more hurtful and complicated. The bright spot in Dinah's life is her childhood friend, Wardley, a stable boy studying to be the Knave of Hearts. He's always been her most trusted confidant, and now Dinah longs for him to be more than her friend. In a crazy, mixed-up world that threatens to break her, Dinah must decide what kind of ruler she will be one day...and what kind of woman. Will this princess become a villain, will villainy be thrust upon her, or will she rise above it?

I'd recommend it to grades: 10 and up

I'd recommend it to: students who are looking for a more mature Wonderland story and fans of Once Upon a Time and Once Upon a Time in Wonderland (Dinah reminds me a lot of Regina.)

What I liked most about this book: A dark and painful view of Wonderland is brewing in this first book of a trilogy, and while the main character definitely has her flaws, you can't help but root for her and hope that she won't end up being who we all know she is in the end. Wonderland has always been a twisted place, but this takes its insanity to a ruthless yet mesmerizing new place. I think I know where the story is going next, but I'm interested in seeing if I'm right.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): In a land that's drearier than any other version of Wonderland I've ever read, the scene where Dinah is walking through the pink snow to the stables is a beautiful respite. It's an important reminder that there is beauty in this painful life she leads, and in that moment, she chooses to see it.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.   

Upside Down in the Middle of Nowhere by Julie Lamana

Title: Upside Down in the Middle of Nowhere
Author: Julie Lamana
Pages: 320
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Publication Date: April 8, 2014*
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17815784-upside-down-in-the-middle-of-nowhere

In a nutshell: It's the end August 2005, and Armani is turning ten years old - a landmark birthday that she is tickled pink about. She can't stop thinking about every little detail of her party, but her plans are interrupted when one of the most devastating hurricanes in history comes barreling through her Ninth Ward home, uprooting her family and testing her mettle. Armani must fight for hope in this touching novel about family, bravery, and love.

I'd recommend it to grades: 5 to 8

I'd recommend it to: anyone who liked Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes, anyone who's experienced a natural disaster, and readers who enjoy heroic female main characters

What I like most about this book: I have to be honest; I have a soft spot for Katrina survival books since I lived in South Louisiana at that time, and this one is the best one I've read since the aforementioned Ninth Ward. The narration of 10-year-old Armani is honest, brave, and funny (at times), and the setting is completely realistic and captures the terror, chaos, tension, despair, and hope of post-Katrina New Orleans. I was moved in more ways than one. You'll need a box of tissues for this one. Don't say I didn't warn you. :)

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): I really don't want to give away too much, but there's a scene at the Superdome where you truly see what little Armani is made of, and it's one that equally heartbreaking and empowering.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): Absolutely 5 stars. I know it's only February, but this may very well end up in my top 10 for 2014.

*I received an ARC of this title from the publisher via Edelweiss.

Smells Like Dog by Suzanne Selfors

Title: Smells Like Dog
Author: Suzanne Selfors
Pages: 368
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: May 1, 2010
AR Levels: Book Level - 4.3, Interest Level - 4th-8th, Points: 10.0
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7153986-smells-like-dog?ac=1

In a nutshell: When aspiring treasure hunter Homer Pudding receives the news that his uncle has met an untimely death, he's completely distraught, but when he discovers he's been left his uncle's most prized possession, a droopy basset hound with a mysterious coin on his collar, Homer realizes this may be his ticket to finally leave his family's goat farm and follow in his uncle's footsteps as a treasure hunter.

I'd recommend it to grades: 3 to 7

I'd recommend it to: fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society series and the Pseudonymous Bosch series and dog lovers

What I like most about this book: Aside from the obvious fact that it's a dog book (and the author even assures you up front that the dog won't die...yay!), I also loved the supporting cast in this one. There's a giant lady who reminds me of the headmistress of Beauxbatons in Harry Potter, a strange man with a helicopter made of clouds, a spunky homeless girl with pink hair, and a sister who aspires to be the world's greatest taxidermist; it's quite an interesting bunch. The plot is somewhat predictable at times, but there are a few surprise twists too, one of which involves Dog the basset hound, who is quickly becoming one of my favorite canine characters in all of children's lit. I can't wait to read books two and three (Smells Like Pirates and Smells Like Treasure) to see what other sort of trouble this four-legged comedian stirs up. 

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): The scene where Homer tries to sleep in the same bed with Dog is all too familiar. I know what it's like to have a bed hog dog! Mine's part basset hound too. :)

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars

Exciting News!

We just found out today from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group that our blog is going to be mentioned in the acknowledgments of the paperback edition of Scarlet by Marissa Meyer! We're beyond excited and honored! It will be released on February 4th along with Cress, book three, and it will include these fabulous features (from the publisher):

-Bonus short story entitled The Queen’s Army

-Q&A with author Marissa Meyer

-Reader’s Guide

-Special sneak peek at Cress

If you haven't read The Lunar Chronicles series yet, you should definitely check it out. Start with Cinder, proceed to Scarlet, and wait longingly for Cress to arrive February 4th. :) You can also check out our review of Scarlet.

Thanks, Macmillan/Feiwel & Friends!