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!!!

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!!!

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 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 

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.   

Let It Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle

Title: Let It Snow
Authors: John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle
Pages: 352
Publisher: Speak
Publication Date: October 2, 2008
AR Levels: Book Level - 4.7; Interest Level - 9th-12th; Points - 10.0
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6883008-let-it-snow

In a nutshell: On a snowy Christmas Eve in Gracetown, North Carolina, six unsuspecting teens will find love in the strangest places. Three of YA lit's biggest hitters each compose a short-ish story that blends beautifully into the plots of the other two. This trio of intertwined holiday novellas is a Christmas miracle!

I'd recommend it to grades: 8 and up

I'd recommend it to: anyone in need of a good old-fashioned Christmas romance, fans of non-sappy, laugh-out-loud romances...and Nerdfighters ;)

What I liked most about this book: Let me break it down this way. John Green's is my favorite (of course), but I liked the other two too. Maureen Johnson's story gets the medal for best character (Jubilee), John's wins for cutest couple, and Lauren Myracle's story gets the cutest teacup pig award. Overall, it's the perfect blend of laugh-out-loud humor and not-too-sappy-sweet romance.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): As someone who grew up in the Deep South, currently lives in North Carolina, and is terrible at driving in the snow, I got more than a giggle out of the scene where Tobin, JP, and The Duke are trying to get the car up the snow-covered hill and out of the neighborhood.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars
(the gold kind that go on top of Christmas trees!)*

*Individually, I'd rank the novellas this way: John Green - 5 stars, Maureen Johnson - 5 stars, Lauren Myracle - 3 stars
 

Skinny by Donna Cooner

Title: Skinny
Author: Donna Cooner
Pages: 272
Publisher: Point
ISBN: 9780545427630
Publication Date: October 1, 2012
AR Levels: Book Level - 4.2, Interest Level - 6th and up, Points - 8.0
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11958583-skinny

In a nutshell: After Ever Davies' mother dies, she begins using food to ease the pain, and soon she feels like a prisoner in her own body. A toxic voice, whom she names "Skinny," haunts her thoughts with hateful words of discouragement that she'll never amount to anything and that she'll always be alone. But through the process of gastric bypass surgery, this obese teen discovers that she's not as alone as she thinks, that her dreams aren't impossible to obtain, and that her worth is not determined by her weight.

I'd recommend it for grades: 7th and up. I'd say it's written for high schoolers, but middle schoolers will enjoy it too, and it's appropriate content-wise for them as well. I wish I'd had this book in middle school!

I'd recommend it to: fans of contemporary realistic fiction and anyone who has struggled with worrying about what other people think of them or feeling unhappy in their own skin

What I liked most about this book: This is a superbly written novel about a subject that rarely gets tackled in teen lit. I've never read another book about gastric bypass surgery in YA lit, and even if you've never struggled with weight issues, there are important lessons about looking beyond yourself to be learned here, and I think every teen would benefit from reading it. The Cinderella references in this book are fun (if a bit over-used), and I love all the references to Broadway songs (Ever uses a Broadway playlist to help her through her post-surgery life.).

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): I don't want to give away too much, so I'll just tell you that Rat is by far my favorite character. He's mature yet nerdy and adorable, and he's one of the best examples of true friendship I've seen in a book in a while.

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

All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terrill

Title: All Our Yesterdays
Author: Cristin Terrill
Pages: 368
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
ISBN: 9781423176374
Publication Date: September 3, 2013
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13514612-all-our-yesterdays

In a nutshell: Em has top secret information that's so world-changing that it's landed her and the boy in the cell next to her in a top secret military prison. In order to save the world, she must follow instructions written in a note hidden in her cell and written in her own handwriting, which she can't remember writing. It reads: "You must kill him." Thus begins a whirlwind time travel adventure and romance that is sure to leave you breathless. 

I'd recommend it for grades: 10 and up (for language and mild romantic content)

I'd recommend it to: sci-fi fans, romance fans, mystery fans, and Doctor Who fans

What I liked most about this book: I'm so afraid I'm going to give something away, so I can't say much except that calling this a page-turner is a huge understatement and that I absolutely fell in love with the characters. I was stoked to find out that there will be a second book (as the author says on her FAQ page on her website), but I'm also a little scared because this ended so perfectly that I can't imagine there being more! If you enjoy time travel and mysteries and romances, you just need to take my word and read this one! It's one of the best books I've read this year and one of the best time travel books I have ever read.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): There's so little I can tell you about this book, but one of my favorite moments is when a female character uses "Elizabeth Bennet" as an alias. Nice little Pride and Prejudice shout-out there. ;)

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): If I had a time machine, I'd give this 5 stars then go back in time and give it 5 stars again...and again...and again... ;)

*I received an ARC of this title from NetGalley.

For Darkness Shows the Stars by Diana Peterfreund

Title: For Darkness Shows the Stars
Author: Diana Peterfreund
Pages: 402
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
ISBN: 9780062006141
Publication Date: June 12, 2012
AR Levels: Book Level - 5.4, Interest Level - 6th and up, Points: 14.0
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8306761-for-darkness-shows-the-stars

In a nutshell: Four years ago, Elliot North gave up her chance at love and freedom when she refused to run away with her childhood sweetheart, Kai, a servant on her family's crumbling estate. Now, Kai's come back into her life, and he's made quite a life for himself as an explorer, renaming himself Captain Malakai Wentforth. Unfortunately for Elliot, all hopes of rekindling their romance is dashed when Captain Wentforth makes it clear that he still harbors anger and resentment toward her, but maybe all is not as Elliot sees. Can Elliot save her family's estate from ruin, protect all the servants she's known and loved her whole life, and find a way to heal her broken heart when the source of her pain is living in her grandfather's home just down the road? Based loosely on Jane Austen's Persuasion, this novel asks thought-provoking questions about love, honor, duty, envy, pride, second chances, forgiveness, technology, and class in a post-apocalyptic setting.

I'd recommend it for grades: 7th and up (quite clean for a teen romance)

I'd recommend it to: Jane Austen fans, tween girls wanting to ease into teen romances, Hunger Games fans (something about Eliot and Kai reminds me of Katniss and Gale), and fans of the Lunar Chronicles

What I liked most about this book: As a huge Jane Austen fan, I'm a little embarrassed to say that I only read Persuasion just a few days before this book, but I loved it. After finishing it, I did wish I could have seen more of what Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth's relationship had been like before she refused him. This book does a great job of filling in those gaps in Kai and Elliot's relationship prior to the action of the book by interspersing letters they wrote back and forth throughout their childhood. It's sweet and heartbreaking all at the same time, but it helps you see just how much they lost when they separated.


Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): This book may appear on the surface to be just another teen romance, but there are some deep thoughts lurking just below the surface, such as this gem: "Envy hurt exponentially more than heartbreak because your soul was torn in two, half soaring with happiness for another person, half mired in a well of self-pity and pain." I think Jane Austen would be proud of this ambitious retelling with nuggets of truth like that.

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

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

Title: Scarlet
Author: Marissa Meyer
Pages: 452
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
ISBN: 9780312642969
Publication Date: February 5, 2013
AR Levels: Book Level - 5.8, Interest Level - 6th and up, Points: 16.0
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13206760-scarlet

In a nutshell: Scarlet Benoit's grandmother has been missing for far too long, so she takes matters into her own hands, and with the help of street fighter, Wolf, she goes in search of her. Her investigation will not only uncover her grandmother's secrets but also Wolf's, and along the way she meets a girl on the run who may just be the key to the whole mystery.

I'd recommend it for grades: 9 and up

I'd recommend it to: fairy tale fans, sci-fi lovers, and adrenaline junkies (this one moves fast!)

What I liked most about this book: This is the complete polar opposite of a sophomore slump if I ever read one. Wow! It's definitely better than the first one, Cinder, which I loved! (Go back and read it first if you haven't yet!) There's just something about the blending of fairy tale and science fiction in this series that is completely unique and impossible to put down. This second book is a perfect mix of fast-paced action and deep characterization. I worried with this one that the introduction of so many new characters would take away from the first book's characters, but the expansion only adds flavor to the universe of the series. I am beyond stoked about the third and fourth books! I read the sneak peek of the first chapter of Cress, book three, and it's amazing. I can't wait to see what Meyer does with the Rapunzel adaptation.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): I've always seen the traditional Little Red Riding Hood as a bit of a naive, silly pushover, but in the opening chapters of this book, it's clear that Scarlet is going to be a firecracker of a second female protagonist for the series. She's a force to be reckoned with, and after reading the first few chapters, I knew she would be my favorite character in the series thus far. Wolf isn't so bad either. ;)

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

The Caged Graves by Dianne Salerni

Title: The Caged Graves
Author: Dianne Salerni
Pages: 329
Publisher: Clarion Books
ISBN: 9780547868530
Publication Date: May 14, 2013
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12394044-the-caged-graves

In a nutshell: 17-year-old Verity Boone is returning to her hometown of Catawissa, Pennsylvania after being sent to live with relatives following the death of her mother. It's been 15 years since she left, and Verity is looking forward to seeing her father and to meeting her fiance, Nathaniel, in person since they've only been exchanging letters to this point, but Verity's arrival in town stirs up an old mystery surrounding her mother's and aunt's deaths. She is horrified to learn that their graves are caged in and interred outside the churchyard, and she is determined to find out why. The real question is whether the graves have cages to keep the living out or to keep the dead in. 

I'd recommend this book for grades: 8 and up

I'd recommend it to: historical mystery/romance fans

What I liked most about this book: I confess I picked up this book because when it came across my desk I was intrigued by both the title and the cover and immediately wanted to know why those graves had cages myself. Once I read the blurb in the book jacket, I knew I had to read it. Apparently the author stumbled across these real-live caged graves in Pennsylvania and did some research on them. She found out who the two women were but could find no evidence of the reasoning behind the cages, so she wrote this book as an imaginative, fictional explanation. Fun fact: the cover image is taken by the author's husband and shows the actual graves. Way cool. As for the story itself, it's definitely a page turner full of suspense and mini cliffhangers, and there's a love triangle too (not the best, but okay). It's a quick, intriguing, and entertaining read.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): I won't say too much, but Verity's first encounter with her pen pal fiance doesn't go exactly as planned, and he's not quite who she imagined him to be. If only she'd had eHarmony, right? ;)

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars (would be 5 if the romantic parts were a bit less cheesy)

The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey

Title: The Fifth Wave
Author: Rick Yancey
Pages: 457
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
ISBN: 9780399162411
Publication Date: May 7, 2013
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16101128-the-5th-wave

In a nutshell: After surviving four waves of a deadly alien invasion that has wiped out the majority of the world's population through lack of power, tidal waves, and a plague, Cassie is determined to stay alive and rescue her kid brother Sammy, but waiting for the fifth wave is like waiting for the other shoe to drop, and Cassie can trust no one...can she?

I'd recommend this for grades: 10 and up (strong language and lots of death and violence obviously)

I'd recommend it to: science fiction fans (especially Doctor Who and X-Files fans), Hunger Games and I Am Number Four fans, and conspiracy theorists ;)

What I liked most about this book: This book has everything you could want in a great young adult novel: aliens, love, sarcastic humor, cute boys, a strong female lead, thrilling mystery, plot twists, government secrets, angst, interesting/loveable/hateable characters, and most of all excellent writing! This one exceeded my already high expectations based on all the hype it's getting! Read it!

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): When Cassie's describing what she's got packed in her survival kit, she pokes fun at herself about including a toothbrush and toothpaste. She's determined that if she's going to be murdered by aliens, she's at least going to go out with clean teeth. Haha! Cassie's snarky comments are part of my favorite thing about her character and this book. She's like Katniss but sassier.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars!!! I can hardly wait for the next one! 

Ketchup Clouds by Annabel Pitcher

Title: Ketchup Clouds
Author: Annabel Pitcher
Pages: 272
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 9780316246767
Publication Date: November 12, 2013 (in America...originally released in the UK in November 2012)
AR Levels: unavailable
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17242447-ketchup-clouds

In a nutshell: Zoe has a secret, a secret so terrible she can't tell anyone, but she has to tell someone what she's done or the guilt may consume her. Zoe's solution? Become pen pals with an inmate on Death Row in Texas. Through this series of letters, "Zoe" (who does not reveal her real name) begins to process her grief and intense guilt over murdering a boy in her life. Who is this boy? What could have caused a nerdy teenage girl to murder him? "Zoe" answers these questions and creates more for readers in this dark yet romantic novel that is sure to keep you guessing.

I'd recommend it for grades: 9 and up (mature content and mild language)

I'd recommend it to: mystery lovers and dark humor fans

What I liked most about this book: It's a backwards whodunnit with a lot of heart too. I laughed, I got a little misty-eyed, and I could not put this one down. It's a tough thing to introduce your main character as a murderer in the first chapter, but "Zoe" immediately draws your sympathy with her vulnerability and humor. I've never read another book like this one, and I mean that in the best of ways.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): There is so much I can't give away in this one, but let's just say "Zoe" works part-time shelving books in a library, and there's some sweet nerdy flirting in the stacks that made my librarian heart happy. Also...any moment with "Zoe's" deaf little sister Dot is my favorite. She's adorable.

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

Half Brother by Kenneth Oppel

I have to admit--this book has been sitting on my shelf for over a year.  On numerous occasions, I picked it up to read it and then put it back down.  Now that summer break is upon me, I finally decided to read it.  I could not put it down!!  It is a phenomenal book that had more heart than I ever could imagine.  It also reminded me of a '90s movie that I absolutely loved--Born to Be Wild (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113533/).

Title:  Half Brother
Author:  Kenneth Oppel
Pages:  377
Publisher:  Harper Collins
ISBN:  9781554686117
Publication Date:  September 1, 2010
AR Levels:  Interest level--4th to 8th; Book level--4.4; Points--13.0
Goodreads link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8700023-half-brother


In a nutshell:  Ben is your average teenager; his family, however, is a different story.  His parents are both scientists who embark on an experimental journey that will change lives in a way they never hypothesized.  Around Ben's 13th birthday, his parents bring home a baby chimp that they plan to raise like a human and teach it sign language.  The chimp, Zan, quickly becomes Ben's little brother and the bond they build blurs the line between experiment and family.  At the same time, Ben is trying to adjust to living in a new city, going to a new school, making new friends (including the breathtaking Jennifer), and coming to terms with the many ways his parents' experiment have changed his life forever.  While Ben sees Zan as another member of the family, his father intends to keep things purely scientific, which causes a rift between them and sets into motion a series of events that will keep your heartstrings on the edge of their seat.

I'd recommend it for grades:  6th +; I really do think adults would love this one, too.

I'd recommend it to:  Animal lovers; anyone who's into social science, sociology, anthropology, or zoology.

What I liked most about this book:  The conflicts are deeper than a lot of YA fiction.  This one has both internal and external conflicts and forces you to ask yourself questions about a lot of topics.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y):  There's one point in the book in which Ben walks into Zan's room and sees him playing with his toys in a way that almost resembles a child's tea party.  

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

Out of The Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Title: Out of The Easy
Author: Ruta Sepetys
Pages: 346
Publisher: Philomel Books
ISBN: 9780399256929
Publication Date: February 12, 2013
AR Levels: Book Level: 4.0; Interest Level: 9th to 12th; Points: 11.0
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11178225-out-of-the-easy

In a nutshell: On the outside, Josie Moraine appears to be a normal, bright high schooler with a promising future. Josie works at a bookshop in 1950 in New Orleans, and she's saving up to go to college. However, there's more to Josie than meets the eye. She's the daughter of a prostitute and also works part-time cleaning up the brothel her mother lives in. As hard as Josie tries to leave The Big Easy, the more her family secret drags her back. Just when Josie thinks her big break has finally come, tragedy strikes, and her mother is wanted for murder, and like it or not, Josie is pulled into the dark underbelly of the French Quarter once again.

I'd recommend it for grades: 10 and up (for language and subject matter)

I'd recommend it to: Louisianians, murder mystery fans, students who can empathize with Josie's tough family life

What I liked most about this book: Josie is a kick-butt heroine. She's cool, calm, and collected no matter what stressful situation she's put in, and she's incredibly strong considering how quickly she had to grow up. She's definitely a great role model for teens. Personally, I also loved the setting. 1950's New Orleans plays out as equally beautiful and despicable. You see both sides of the tracks from the poorest to the richest as the plot unfolds. It made me miss Louisiana something awful. :) And the COVER! Oh, the cover! Gorgeous.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Josie and Patrick, the bookshop owner, like to play a couple of games that are pretty funny. In one, they ask each other which literary character they'd prefer to marry, and in another, they use hand signals to try to predict what genre of book a customer will buy when they walk in. It provides some much needed comic relief for the book.

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

What a Boy Wants by Nyrae Dawn

Let me begin by saying that it's been a long time since I've disliked a book as much as I disliked this one.  It has less than 150 pages (thank goodness), and I almost stopped reading it around page 20.  Usually, I tend to find positive things in most books that I read, but after this one, I got nothin'.  It was WAY too predictable (My hunch from page 5 was extremely close.), I didn't connect with a single character, and there was a lot of product placement and name dropping throughout the book that I found distracting.  Additionally, the plot very closely resembled Hitch with Will Smith (rent that instead).  But. . . That's just my opinion--judge for yourselves.

Title:  What a Boy Wants
Author:  Nyrae Dawn
Pages:  140
Publisher:  Independent
ISBN:  9781475222449
Publication Date:  April 6, 2012
AR Levels:  TBA
Goodreads Link:  http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15707111-what-a-boy-wants

In a nutshell:  Sebastian Hawkins--the self proclaimed "Hook-up Doctor"--knows what it takes for girls to land the guy of their dreams, and he shares his expertise anonymously for a fee (so he can save up to buy a car).  Personally, he prefers short-term flings over actual relationships, so falling in love was never on his agenda, especially not with the person he finds himself pining over.  Now that he's head-over-heels in love with this girl, he can't seem to provide good advice for his customers.  Can he make it work without screwing it up? Is there hope for the Hook-up Doctor, or will his own relationship crash and burn?

I'd recommend it for grades:  I have a hard time recommending this book to anyone, but due to the more adult language and content, I would definitely say this book should be reserved for grades 9-12.

I'd recommend it to: Middle-aged adult women who enjoy reading teen fiction. This book was written for them in my opinion.

What I liked most about this book:  The character names; those were at least original or uncommon.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y):  At one point, the main character quotes Borat and then refers to it as a classic, even though it came out when he was in elementary school.  Yeah, it definitely came out in 2006.

Star rating (where 5 stars is amazing and 0 stars is atrocious):  I'll give it 2 stars.  I'm sure there are people out there who will like this book, but I'm not one of them.

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

Title: The Scorpio Races
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
Pages: 409
Publisher: Scholastic
ISBN: 9780545224901
Publication date: October 18, 2011
AR levels: Interest level - 9-12th grades, Book level: 5.5, Points: 17

Goodreads link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10626594-the-scorpio-races

In a nutshell: Every November, the courageous riders on the island of Thisby face off in The Scorpio Races, a dangerous race in which they must attempt to tame and race the wild and bloodthirsty capaill uisce. These beautiful but deadly water horses emerge from the surf, and if a lucky rider can find one to lead him to victory, there's fame and fortune and glory to be had, but death could also be a raging hoofprint away. 

Both Sean Kendrick and Puck Connolly feel the pull of the Races. Repeat champion and orphan Sean is tired of living under the bondage of his despicable employer, so he's laying everything he has on the line in order to start a new and independent life for himself. Puck Connolly, also an orphan, has no choice but to enter the Races; she must win in order to keep her family together, but the islanders won't be kind to the only girl to ever enter the Races. In a deadly race where only one can win and anyone can die, both Sean and Puck find themselves with equally vital motives for victory and a luring camaraderie that's as strong as the pull of the tides.

I'd recommend it for grades: 9 to 12 (It gets a bit bloody at times.)

I'd recommend it to: Hunger Games fans and horse lovers

What I liked most about this book: Simply put: the language is gorgeous. Stiefvater definitely has a way with words and imagery. I felt completely transported to this island, and even though the beginning is a bit slow plot-wise, I was so pulled in by the descriptions and the characters, that I couldn't stop. The race scene had me on the edge of my seat, and I think I may have held my breath a few times. The book is an alluring blend of violence, romance, courage, hope, suspense, action, and myth. This would make a breathtaking movie as well.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Any scene where Sean is working to tame the capaill uisce is utterly magical. He's a water horse whisperer of immense talent, and it's incredible to watch him work with those beautiful and terrifying creatures. The character development of the water horses is amazing in and of itself too.

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

Tiger Lily by Jodi Lynn Anderson

Title: Tiger Lily
Author: Jodi Lynn Anderson
Pages: 292
Publisher: Harper Teen
ISBN: 9780062003256
Publication Date: July 3, 2012
AR Levels: Interest Level: 9th-12th, Book Level: 5.7, Points: 10.0
Goodreads link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12924326-tiger-lily 

In a nutshell: Before Peter gave Wendy a thimble, he loved a strong, exotic native girl named Tiger Lily, but this is the tale of three girls who loved Peter Pan - an English girl, the daughter of a medicine man, and a spunky fairy. Narrated by Tinker Bell, this entrancing love rectangle is beautifully written and is sure to leave you spellbound.

I'd recommend it for grades: 9 to 12

I'd recommend it to: fans of Peter Pan and romance lovers

What I liked most about this book: Besides the fact that the writing is just gorgeous, it's incredible to see a fresh interpretation of Neverland. All your favorite characters are here - Captain Hook, Smee, the Lost Boys, the mermaids, and of course Peter, Wendy, Tiger Lily, and Tinker Bell, and there are some delightful new characters too. One of my favorites is Pine Sap, a bookish native boy who's in love with Tiger Lily. Anderson takes some liberties with the original, but I loved the idea that you stop aging when the most significant moment of your life happens. Also, while you would think that having a "jealous" Tinker Bell narrate the love story of Peter Pan and Tiger Lily would be petty and rude, Tinker Bell and Tiger Lily actually have an incredibly authentic and loyal friendship that's every bit as heartwarming as the romance in the book.

Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): I can't give away too much, but the book puts a spin on how the crocodile ended up with the clock, and it has nothing to do with Captain Hook. That scene is one of the turning points of the novel and one of the most heartbreaking ones too. I teared up a bit.

Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): I'd give it 6 stars if I could.