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!

She Picks Her 2013 Favorites

It's that time of year again! That's right. It's time to tell you my top 10 favorite books I read in 2013. You can click on the title to go to the Goodreads link for more info. Happy New Year, and here's to another great year of reading! :)

Here we go...in no particular order:

1. All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terrill

2. P.S. Be Eleven by Rita Williams-Garcia

3. The Archived by Victoria Schwab

4. The Surprise Attack of Jabba the Puppett by Tom Angleberger

5. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

6. Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

7. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

8. Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo

9. Rose Under Fire by Elizabeth Wein

10. The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey