Reading Lists of Contemporary Young Adult Books
Abelove, Joan. Saying it out Loud. DRP 43. JH Not recommended. Too bleak. Mindy’s other
is dying of a brain tumor, and isn’t herself. Her father is remote. She does have good
friends who foster and comfort her. The story ends on an almost positive note, after 136
pages of bleakness.
Akunin, Boris (Andrew Bromfield, translator). The Winter Queen. Series: Erast Fandorin #1. H
This mystery feels Russian, with its bleak psychological focuses and historically accurate,
oppressive social hierarchy. I'm sure it gives the reader an accurate picture of what czarist
Russia was like, with its strangling, bored bureaucracy and ineffectual social conventions.
I hated the ending of this (up to the ending) intriguing puzzle.
Almond, David. Heaven Eyes. MJH This odd book hangs between realistic fiction and fantasy.
Orphans Erin and her friend January escape from Whitegates, the home where adult
Maureen pesters them about their memories and calls them “damaged children.” They
float on their makeshift raft to the Black Middens, mucky mud flats revealed when the
river is at low tide. There they meet the mysterious “Heaven Eyes,”an odd and vulnerable
girl who sees good wherever she looks, and her “grandfather,” an old caretaker of the
abandoned factories where they live who has lost much of his short term memory and
reeks of violence. Positive, but this novel will not appeal to all readers. It takes a very
willing suspension of insistence on clarity, since the reader only slowly infers setting,
situation and genre. Touches of supernatural and death add quality to the narrative.
Alphin, Elaine Marie. Ghost Soldier. DRP 51 MJ Fun, fast read about a boy who goes to meet
his future step family, visits the Civil War site of the Battle of Petersburg nearby, and
picks up the ghost of a young Confederate soldier killed in the battle who needs help
tracing what happened to his family, whose farm was destroyed by Sherman’s march. As
the boy researches the family, he learns and changes through “his” ghost’s experiences
and his own. Positive. A painless way to learn some real history.
Alvarez, Julia. Finding Miracles. JH Milly Kaufman is an “ordinary” 9th grader living her
ordinary life in Vermont until a young man moves to her high school as a refugee from
repressive government violence in his own (Hispanic, unidentified on purpose by the
author) country—which happens to be the country Milly was born in, though she never
tells anyone about her adoption. Because of this young man and his family, Milly must
confront her own identity and struggle with the question of her birth family and what
happened to them. Positive, well written and touching.
Andrews, Andy. The Traveler’s Gift. JH A man who feels like a failure because he has lost his
high-power job and cannot afford medical help for his ailing daughter travels in time to
meet Abraham Lincoln, King Solomon, Anne Frank, Harry Truman, etc. Each of the
“wise” people gives him a lesson in life their achievements have taught them. It’s
derivative of …people you meet in heaven + 7 habits. Students who like sentimental self
help will like this book.
Anderson, Laurie Halse. Catalyst. H This novel centers around a girl who is obsessed with
getting into MIT, which ultimately rejects her. During the novel she gains some
perspective on this conflict when she is forced to room with a girl who struggles with
much more meaningful conflicts: incest, survival, death. The author cleverly, maybe too
cleverly, titles each short chapter with a chemical term and definition that apply
metaphorically to the action in the chapter. The ending is somewhat positive after a book
full of really negative attitude. Religion gets a really bad rap in the novel, though the
protagonist’s pastor father is shown to be a fairly good guy, especially at the end. I think
most of our students would have a hard time identifying with the protagonist being totally
devastated, her life ruined, almost mentally ill because she didn’t get into the prestigious
college she expected to be able to attend.
Fever 1793. DRP 50. JH This gripping story based in the epidemic of yellow fever that
struck Philadelphia gives an authentic picture of life during that frightening trauma that
disrupted society almost completely. Though the protagonist is only 14, the themes and
detail, the engaging characters based on real historical citizens of the city, the high
interest story line (complete with a light romance) make this book a good read for high
school and adults, as well. Positive. The breakdown of society, the picture of early
American class structure, economics, way of life give readers a lot to talk about. Good
for English or US Studies classes.
Speak. DRP 50. JH Superbly written with wry humor, this novel treats a VERY
controversial subject--rape--and treats it sensitively and with delicacy. A girl between 8th
and 9th grades is flattered when a popular senior pays attention to her at a party.
However, when his attentions turn into physical confrontation and rape, her life is
changed forever. She is ostracized because her friends (and the reader) don’t know what
happened--only that she called the police to break up a “harmless” party. The action
begins months later, and the girl’s story comes out through hints and allusions at first, no
one realizing what happened, until the girl must confront what happened--to prevent it
from happening to a former friend. Positive, but touchy--for more mature readers. The
wry sarcasm and humor of the narrator and her observations about the (young) high
school scene make the book charming and engaging as it is serious in its basic intent.
Positive. One caveat--the attitude towards teenage drinking at the party is rather casual,
except for presenting it as a very real contributing factor to the assault.
Twisted. H, but watch out! Unfortunately, this novel includes some explicit sexual
references that make it hard to recommend to Nebo readers. The novel itself is positive
and deals with issues that are contemporary and common to high school students. Tyler,
the narrator, has always been the wimpy nerd picked on by popular kids and jocks, but
this year’s different. Over the summer he’s matured physically and had to work at
muscle-inducing labor. But these changes bring two challenges: what to do when the
cheerleader daughter of his dad’s boss (on whom he’s had a crush for ages) comes on to
him, and how to stand up to those who are used to getting away with beating up on him
and his friends without getting in so much trouble he will never get out. He is the victim
of lies and scapegoating that even his dad believes (because it would be inconvenient
otherwise) to the point that he is about to commit suicide. (The explicitness of that scene
is another reason to use caution with this novel.) The novel shows realistic consequences
of, unfortunately, realistic teen problems. However, is this the hill…?
Anderson, M.T. The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing. National Book Award 2007. H
Raised with his mother by impractical rational philosophers in Boston, Octavian is
dressed and treated like a prince and given the finest of classical educations, as his regal
mother flirts with noblemen and tutors alike. Then the world of Revolutionary Boston,
complete with “pox parties” during the smallpox epidemic, forces upon Octavian the
reality of his situation--as a slave. The book shows the contradictions of 18th C.
Enlightenment philosophy opposed to the realities of a merchant mentality, as well as the
struggles of slaves with the prejudices and compassion of educated and uneducated
Americans. The novel also shows the splits in an America searching for identity during
the pre revolutionary years and gives an authentic-feeling contemporary view of such
historical events as the Boston Tea Party and the Battle of Bunker Hill. Positive, though
language and some hint at prostitution make the novel one for mature readers only.
Auch, Mary Jane. Ashes of Roses. New York: Dell Laurel Leaf/Random House, 2002. MJH
This novel traces 16 year old Rose Nolan, an Irish immigrant, and her family through her
first months in New York City at the beginning of the twentieth century. Besides
presenting a realistic picture of immigrant life, the novel dramatizes the Triangle
Shirtwaist Factory Fire, a pivotal event in labor relations. Characterization is good,
plotting well handled. Positive presentation of history without pain.
Avi. Crispin. MJH Superior story set in 14th Century England of a 13 year old who is brutally
orphaned and dispossessed of everything familiar in life-- home, possessions, village-and declared a “wolf’s head,” a renegade open to killing on sight. Dealing with the
mystery of the enmity that branded him, finding his identity, and trying to make a life for
himself, the engaging young man survives--barely. Positive, though with quite a bit of
injustice and violence. The quality of the story and writing make the reasons for this
novel’s Newbery Medal (2002) obvious.
Don’t You Know There’s a War On? DRP 46 MJ The Home Front of World War II
becomes more than just setting in this light novel of compassion and growing up. A 16year-old narrates the story of his 5th grade year. The kids in Brooklyn, New York, 1943,
are trying to do their part saving tinfoil, eating Spam, watching for spies. And in the
watching, the protagonist inadvertently finds out that his dishy teacher is being fired for
being pregnant out of wedlock--but she’s really married to a man who’s away serving in
the war. The rest of the story focuses on his efforts to rescue his dishy teacher. The war
plays an important part in the novel. Each chapter is introduced with headlines that trace
the course of the war. Good and positive. A little young feeling, probably ok for middle
or junior high reading.
Nothing But the Truth DRP 47 JH This novel is a “documentary novel,” a novel told in
a series of “documents,” including a school announcements, letters from the main
characters, various memos and reports, as well as “dialogues” or “discussions” (in play
dialogue form) which really do not fit the “documentary” form. The story is not positive
nor attractive, though it does raise questions that are worth discussing. Philip Malloy
wants to run track. He does NOT want to work to pass his English class. After earning a
D in the class, which means he cannot run track, he decides he’s getting out of the class,
by whatever means he has to use. His method is to provoke an incident with the teacher
that gets him thrown out of class “because she has it in for me,” as he explains to
everyone who will listen. Unfortunately, the incident involves the teacher’s objection to
his singing the “Star Spangled Banner,” and it’s school board election year. The boy
loses control of what is going on once media finds out about the incident. The book
shows differing points of view about the incident and how “nothing but the truth” can be
twisted to mean anything but the truth. The boy’s casual, selfish evil prevails at the end
of the book—sort of. A Newberry Honor book, the novel has nothing objectionable
except the protagonist and the outcome of his selfish quest.
Barnholdt, Lauren. Two-Way Street. H In this teen novel, a girl and her ex boyfriend are forced
to endure each other during a two day trip to the university they will be attending. Their
hostility hides other agendas, which the reader finds out as the book goes on. There are
good elements to the book--the main issue of how kids deal with their parents' really bad
decisions and how those thoughtless, selfish decisions impact the kids, but unfortunately
the casual acceptance of premarital sex (semi explicit), the language, and some crudity get
in the way of the narrative. I have a hard time with the basic premise: no teen girl I know
would go on such a trip with a guy who had hurt her so badly. She'd die first.
Bauer, Joan. Backwater. DRP 51 JH Ivy Breedlove, sixteen, struggles to find a place in her
family of lawyers. She isn’t interested in law, but in history--family history. In her studies
she finds out she is not alone in rebelling against family expectations. Her aunt, who she
didn’t even know existed, lives on her own, inaccessible forest/mountain land. Ivy sets
out on a perilous journey to meet and interview this unorthodox lady. This novel begins
rather slowly, but has what a teen reader would like: romance, adventure, humor, and a
dynamic protagonist. Definitely positive.
Hope Was Here. DRP 52 JH Positive but realistic: Hope moves with her aunt, who is
her only family, from New York to a small Wisconsin town where her aunt will cook in a
diner and she will go to school and work as a waitress. The owner of the diner, who has
leukemia, runs for mayor against an entrenched and corrupt politician.
Thwonk. DRP 54. MJH A light, comic romance with a wise theme, if the girls this novel
will appeal to will take the time to think about theme. Allison, a senior with talent in
photography, but not in choosing guys, suddenly acquires the aid of a real, live cupid, who
offers her the fulfillment of her fondest dream--the adoration of Peter Teris, popular hunk
going with beautiful popular girl Julia. Moral of the story: be careful of what you want.
You might get it. Alternate moral: adoration from a popular hunk is not all as it is
imagined. Well told, light, and positive.
Bedder, Frank. The Looking Glass Wars. First of Looking Glass Wars Series. JH First in a
series, this appealing retelling of Alice in Wonderland posits a real Wonderland, but with
very real villains and heroes, and with Alyss as the only princess that can save that world
from forces of evil conspiring to seize and rule it in dread and bleakness. The story is
written well enough to appeal to younger kids familiar with the original Alice story, and
also to older readers who enjoy fantasy adventure. The novel obviously sets up for further
adventures that span the contemporary 19th C world of the real Alice with the fantasy
world of Wonderland with all its assumptions and challenges. Positive.
Berry, Julie. The Amaranth Enchantment. JH I liked this alternate Cinderella whose parents are
killed and who goes to live with a kind of relative ("uncle" who was once married to her
aunt now married to a really mean stepmother-type who makes life miserable for the
protagonist). Besides escaping her horrible circumstances, the protagonist must avenge her
parents' deaths, expose an evil courtier, and win the love of a prince--all with the help of a
magical woman from another world.
Biggs, Patricia. Moon Called. Series Mercedes Thompson #1. H OK, this one is another vampirewerewolf story--but it really surprised me. The characters are engaging, the romance a lot
less oppressive than Meyers' and the fantasy adventure gallops along most satisfactorily.
Yeah, it's adult, with some language and sensuality, but not explicitly awful. The heroine
makes her living as a mechanic--and a good one--with the head of a werewolf pack living
next door and a friendly vampire paying her to keep his van working. She gets involved
with a pack of supernatural guys and gals and ends up in the middle of their conflicts,
forced to reveal that she is one of them.
Blackwood, Gary. The Year of the Hangman. New York: Scholastic, 2002. MJH This
excellent alternate history offers a really fun way for kids to really think about the
Revolutionary War. Creighton Brown, the 16 year old protagonist, is raised by his mother
to be a spoiled British “gentleman,” but is anything but gentle or manly. His stepfather-tobe has him spirited away to the colonies in the midst of the revolutionary war, where he
must learn to survive, work, and weigh moral issues and act responsibly. Readers will
cheer against the brat at first, but cheer for him as he grows and changes. At the same time
they will learn details of history as it happened and might have happened. Positive and
engaging. A good assignment: compare/ contrast the historical details of the story to
history’s reality.
Bloor, Edward. Crusader. H Roberta Ritter’s mother was murdered. She works in her father’s
arcade in a failing mall in a deteriorating section of town. Hate crimes against an Arabic
shop owner in the mall escalate and involve people Roberta knows, and threaten her own
picture of the world. This novel includes actions and language that may offend teen
readers. More objectionable, in the interest of political correctness, the Arab owner gives
a version of history that isn’t entirely accurate, twisting events and presenting half truths
as the whole story to indict the US as racist throughout its time as a nation. Not
recommended.
Tangerine. DRP 49 MJ Soccer playing younger son (7th grader) suffers from eye trouble.
His parents explain he looked at the sun too long when he was younger. Their attention
and lives revolve around (senior in high school) their older son, a talented kicker on the
football team, who they expect to get scholarships to a “good” football university and then
go to the NFL. The protagonist is afraid of his brother and the henchman he is always
around. Though he lives in an exclusive area with WASP schools, the protagonist ends up
going to a more plebian junior high and playing on their soccer team with hispanic kids
who accept him somewhat when he interests himself in the tangerine groves that concern
many. Climaxing in soccer action, a homicide, robberies, and resolution of conflict
between son and parents, this book is high interest and well written. Some questionable
language. Positive.
Blos, Joan W. A Gathering of Days: a New England Girl’s Journal, 1830-32. DRP 56 MJ
Newbery Medal. This “diary” of a 14 year old girl living her last year with her family on
the New Hampshire frontier covers a variety of experiences a girl of that era might have:
tragic deaths, contact with an escaped slave, teen romance, chores and school. The book
seems to make these experiences almost too prosaic, and the reading seemed a bit slow in
places. The book did give what seems like a very accurate picture of what everyday life
would be like in 1830’s New Hampshire. Positive.
Brashares, Ann. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. DRP 52 H This should have been an
excellent book to recommend to girls. There’s a big HOWEVER. The book deals with
four fifteen-year-old girls who have been inseparable since infancy who send a “magical”
pair of jeans back and forth during a summer in which they are separated. During the
summer each girl learns and grows through conflicts that stem from her particular
character and circumstances. She immediately recognizes that she “wasn’t ready” for
what she did. The sex itself is offstage, after the rather explicit leadup, and immature
readers might not catch exactly what happened, but it’s fairly clear. There is not even a
hint of a moral issue, just a “readiness” issue with the incident. The book also includes
several relatively harmless references to female anatomy as the girls tease each other. The
book brings up typical teenage issues in a usually positive way, but should be
recommended only cautiously because of the sexual issue, itself a good way to emphasize
that it is not always the boy who is the aggressor and that girls need to take responsibility,
too.
The Second Summer of the Traveling Pants. JH The second in this series
examines mother/daughter relationships in the group of four girls who trade the pants.
Sexual issues, with premarital sex accepted as the norm, still come into the story, with one
girl’s mother beginning a new relationship and another girl finding herself involved in a
romance, but the stories stress responsibility (without any regard for religious mores or
morality), and are handled well enough not to offend most readers, (but religious readers
do need to know that the stance of this author is not necessarily one they should accept).
The book is essentially positive, showing skillfully all the ambiguity and love/hate of
various kinds of relationships between mothers and daughters trying to grow together.
Bray, Libba. A Great and Terrible Beauty. H, if any. Don’t be sucked in to the “Readers’ Circle”
questions at the end. This book is an R rated book masquerading as young adult fiction,
with sexuality and Satanistic pseudo cult mixed in to try to cover up a depressingly
“politically correct” story. Set in a Victorian academy for “young ladies,” the novel
concerns Gemma Doyle, a 16 year old who has grown up in India, sent to school in
England after a family tragedy. She has visions, must deal with duplicitous and malignant
peers and with mysterious men who cross her path with ominous warnings.
Don’t be tempted to give this book to young readers. This hill isn’t worth dying on.
Brian, Kate. The Princess and the Pauper. MJH I’m not sure which came first, the novel or
the movie, but the novel is an obvious takeoff on Twain’s medieval version. This one, set
in modern teenagedom, provides an entertaining read for kids looking for a harmless,
rather sweet romance. If you’re a lover of Princess Diaries, you’ll enjoy this tale centered
around the adventures of an impoverished daughter of a single mom trying to survive who
changes places (for money, and only temporarily) with a real princess so the princess can
go to a rock concert while the pauper takes her place at a reception. Positive and harmless.
Brooks, Bruce. The Moves Make the Man. DRP 55 JH Newbery Honor The DRP on this seems
high. It does descend into a little bit of dialect at times, because the narrator is African
American, but the dialect is accessible, and not much of it. The novel tells the story of the
relationship of Jerome Foxworthy and his white friend Bix, a natural athlete whom Jerome
secretly teaches to play basketball. Bix struggles with his troubled family situation
(stepfather who is judgmental and hard, mentally ill mother) and his own insistence on
truth with no deception--practically to the point of obsession. Jerome has his own
problems: he’s one of the first black students to enroll at Bix’s large Wilmington, North
Carolina high school. The book portrays the problems faced by the first African
Americans to integrate southern schools well, but the historical is not the major focus of
the book. The book is mostly positive, though the ending is not trouble free. Good sports
sequences, both basketball and baseball will attract readers.
Brooks, Kevin. Martyn Pig. JH This fifteen year old faces a miserable life: his mother deserted
the family because his father is a violent, miserable alcoholic living on the dole. His only
other relative is a dictatorial, judgmental aunt. He is forced to keep house and cook for his
father and take his father’s emotional and physical abuse. Then when his father attacks
him in a jealous rage, Martyn shoves him in self defense, resulting in his father’s death.
The story deals with the consequences of not reporting what happens. The story moves
well and includes suspense and drama enough, but the fatalistic attitude of “everything is
already determined by coincidence and a malignant fate, so just go with the flow” and “
nothing is objectively right or wrong,” makes the book not one I would really recommend
wholeheartedly. The cover says it is “grossly funny,” but the humor is hard to see, though
the grossness is definitely present. The story ends on a relatively negative note after a
twist at the end. The protagonist is barely better off, with very little hope for the future.
Brown, Eleanor. The Weird Sisters. Adult. Great book, but definitely PG13 because of attitudes
and subject matter (sexual issues, drugs, etc.--it's aimed at adults!) The book tells the story
of three sisters, each with her own hangups and foibles, who struggle to break the family
roles they have enacted through their lives. The three sisters' personalities and problems
can only be understood in the context of their parents' lives and choices. The story's point
of view skillfully alternates among the three, revealing naturally the basic problems and
choices of each sister. A VERY good book for an adult women's book club.
Brown, Jennifer. Hate List. JH Better and safer as a young adult novel than Nineteen Minutes,
this novel also deals with a Columbine like school shooting, taking the point of view of
the girlfriend of the sole shooter, who may or may not be the cause/a participant in the
tragedy. With chapters alternating between what she faces when she goes back to school
and the actual day and events of the shooting, the novel reveals backgrounds, families,
motivations of the participants. The novel shows how the tragedy changes--and fails to
change--the students and social structures that produced the shooting in the first place.
Positive, clean, with some language, this book is well worth reading and discussing.
Bruchac, Joseph. Skeleton Man. DRP 48 MJ A horror/suspense novel aimed at younger readers
(middle/junior high) but with a lot going for it. It is well paced, fairly credible, built on a
native American “legend” with a strong native American girl protagonist. Positive.
Bujold, Lois McMaster. The Hallowed Hunt H This strange fantasy combine mythology of
many kinds to create a world where Lord Ingrey kin Wolfcliffand and Lady Ijada possess
strange supernatural gifts, not the least of which is changing to an animal of power. These
two are locked in monumental struggles against evil beings just as powerful and must
overcome both antagonism and attraction to save mankind (and otherkind, as well). This
tale verges on PG 13ish stuff at times, but is positive and idealistic with self sacrifice and
nobility the chief characteristics of the two protagonists. Well written and mostly positive,
but for mature readers only.
Bunting, Eve. SOS Titanic. DRP 51 JH The 15 year old Irish protagonist comes from a well to
do family, sailing to a promising future. He and his grandfather, however, were
responsible for a young hooligan and his brother from a poor family having to leave
Ireland to go America on the same ship against their will. The allure and attraction of the
hooligan’s beautiful Irish sister adds a Romeo and Juliet twist to the plot. Lots of action,
including the sinking of the Titanic, make this historical novel easy and fun to read.
Positive values as the youth learns about class differences, compassion, and courage.
The details about shipboard hierarchy and locations and the action and consequences of
the sinking reflect good, solid research.
Face at the Edge of the World. JH The kids call the cliff overlooking the sea “The
Edge of the World.” What Charlie saw there haunted him to the point that he committed
suicide. Jed, his best friend, feels compelled to find out why this promising young man
killed himself. I’m not sure the book is worth recommending to a student. It does say
something positive about taking responsibility and loyalty to friends, but it treats sexual
activity casually, taking it for granted, and is pretty stereotypical about interracial dating
and bad-guy aristocratic parents who do not accept that kind of pairing up, poor drug
addicts who are victims of their environments, etc.
Burgess, Melvin. Smack. DRP 47. H OK, if you want a kid on drugs to see consequences, this
book stands next to Go Ask Alice, though it’s not a true story. It is British, with the rough
frankness and assumed amorality of much of British YA fiction. It deals with two young
runaways who escape their abusive families to embroil themselves into the world of heroin
addiction and homelessness. Their struggle to survive that world, then to extricate
themselves from its clutches is unpleasant at best. The novel includes most every kind of
yuckiness, portraying the drug and sex filled world without judging it, showing the people
who try to help fairly truthfully. It’s a bleak book, but it would serve as a good warning.
It’s quite negative and rough and condones much behavior that is destructive. The book is
really an adult novel, with adult bleakness. OK only for very mature kids who already are
on the way to living this negative reality.
Cabot, Meg. All American Girl. MJH Samantha Madison is dealing with enough problems
already when she accidentally saves the life of the President of the United States. This
action just causes more problems: she becomes an instant hero and celebrity—and she
KNOWS she’s just not that special. But wait, maybe there are compensations—the
president’s son is really nice. Positive. Light, but with a good theme.
Avalon High. JH What fun! If you have studied Arthurian legend or the poem, “The
Lady of Shallott,” you are ahead of the characters in this novel adventure romance.
Ellie’s parents are scholars studying Medieval history and literature, so she hates the
period. She hates it even more when her parents go on sabbatical and move her from
Minnesot to Avalon High outside Washington D.C. But there are compensations: her
own pool, where she veges all summer, and a winning young hero, who, unfortunately,
already has a girlfriend. But things are not as they seem! Coincidental names and
relationships seem to be paralleling—King Arthur’s Court. Positive and fun.
Cabot, Meg, with four other teen chick-book authors. Prom Nights from Hell. H, maybe J, but
PG rated. These five long short stories share the subtitle: “paranormal prom stories,” that
involve proms and characters from hell or at least from the world of horror characters,
including vampires, demons from hell, and Greek gods. The stories are whimsically fun to
read, and mostly positive (good does triumph), BUT some share Cabot’s habit of skirting
along the edge of explicit details of teen lust. The stories don’t fall over the edge, but
some readers will find a few scenes a bit too graphic. One of the protagonist’s friends is
gay, going to the prom with her girlfriend—politically correct, but not for Nebo. My other
objection: most of these stories hint, or more than hint, that there will be more of this
story to come—so they’re little more than short story teaser/advertisers for future novels.
Cadnum, Michael. Forbidden Forest. H This realistic story Little John and Robin Hood
parallels and explains many of the legends associated with that “outlaw.” Told mostly
from Little John’s point of view, with sections told by a merchant’s daughter, the
adventure appeals to both girls and boys. The book gives a realistic portrait of life in early
medieval England. Although the format of the book makes it look like it is aimed at
middle school/junior high audiences, this retelling is NOT for faint of heart. Mature, but
not horribly offensive bawdiness and sexual references, as well as explicit portrayals of
medieval torture and punishment and violence make this a mature book. It is basically
positive, though the thievery is taken for granted because of the horrible inequities of the
times. The story is well told, with dynamic protagonists, who grow and change, facing
problems unique to medieval England and common to adolescents everywhere.
Cannon, A.E. Charlotte’s Rose. MJH. Almost thirteen year old Charlotte is going to Zion with
her father and with other Welsh saints. The group weathers an Atlantic sea journey and a
rail journey in cattle cars. As the handcart pioneers begin the long journey over the prairie,
a young woman who has befriended Charlotte gives birth to a tiny girl, then dies.
Charlotte volunteers to carry the babe to Zion, since her inconsolable father wants nothing
to do with her. Based on many pioneers’ experiences, this LDS fiction offers quality
characterization and good themes: personal growth and sacrifice, responsibility and
maturity. Positive. Good for young LDS readers.
Cappo, Nan Willard. Cheating Lessons. H Not what you think—it’s not the kids who are
cheating. Bernadette goes to Wickham High--and she has a smashing English teacher who
encourages her and other top students to compete in a statewide quiz bowl. The kids do
unexpectedly well in the written test, so well, in fact, that they will compete with their
rival “rich kids” school for the state championship. However--did they come by their
scores honestly, or did the favorite teacher “cheat”? Positive, though a little simplistic in
places.
Card, Orson Scott. Ender’s Shadow. DRP 53 JH (Parallel to Ender’s Game) An almost midget
child from the slums of the future, absolute genius, absolute survivor, works his way into
and up the ranks of the elite in a special school for the most brilliant children being trained
in military strategy against future invasions by a fearful ant-like alien force. Good
adventure, gripping, especially attractive for sci-fi fans. The violence and threat are
graphic, mature and dark. Resolved and positive ending, but open ended for sequels.
Carmi, Daniella. Samir and Yonatan. DRP 49 MJ(maybe) Aimed at middle school readers, this
novel tells the story of Samir, a Palestinian boy, who must go to an Israeli hospital for
treatment. Among the very people whom he blames for his brother’s violent death, he
learns about the Jewish children with whom he shares his hospital room, and sees that they
share conflicts, values and hurts. The novel presents a valuable picture of the reality of
growing up in Israel and Palestine today. Positive, though young.
Carter, Alden R. Crescent Moon. MJH Set in the early part of the 20th Century, this novel
evokes an era of change in Wisconsin, when the forests have been cut and the mills are
closing, taking with them a way of life. The protagonist, 13 year old son of a merchant
and grandson of a woodcarver, faces those changes optimistically. The changes threaten
the Chippewa who live around their town and the protagonist’s friends, children of an
alcoholic who works in the mill. The novel is positive, but slow, though it speeds up in
the middle. It does paint an accurate picture of the personal cost of progress.
Carter, Ally. Heist Society. JH On the lines of her other series, this book is a light adventure that
takes off on lines reminiscent of an Audrey Hepburn movie of the 60's presupposing an
aristocratic extended family business: pulling off Mission Impossible heists of major art
and riches. Cute and light and clean, though with the assumption that all's fair in love and
stealing.
Castle, Richard (who is really a character on TV). Heat Wave. Not recommended. You know, if
you watch the TV series, that there are little hints about his novels--little hints that they
might be pretty adult-R rated explicit? Well, the hints are right on! I thought reading one
of the novels by "Richard Castle" would be fun, and the plot is fun, though I really don't
like his woman detective as well as I like the character on TV. However, the explicit sex is
too much.
Choldenko, Gennifer. Al Capone Does my Shirts. MJ This delightful novel, aimed at middle
school readers, tells the story of Moose Flanagan. His family moves away from his
comfortable life to Alcatraz island so that his father can work there as a guard while his
sister goes to a special school in San Francisco. The novel, set in 1935, casually presents
challenges of life in the Depression, both the challenge of employment and the challenge
of living with mental illness and the time’s attitudes toward it. The central conflict is a
good one: a family so wrapped up in a mentally ill child they neglect the needs of a
healthy child. Delightfully light, despite the serious themes, the book is a good one for
discussion. Positive and fun.
Clapp, Patricia. Constance: a Story of Early Plymouth. New York: Beech Tree Paperbacks,
1968. DRP 56 MJH This lively narrative, following Constance Hopkins through the first
six years of the settlement of Plymouth, sticks to historical fact, but with the girl=s strong
voice giving conversations, thoughts, descriptions created by the author, fictionalizes these
facts most engagingly. The narrative includes the growing relationship between girl and
stepmother, an old fashioned romance including two suitors, and a positive friendship with
a native American girl, all with the background of the problems, conflicts, and challenges
of establishing the Plymouth settlement. This narrative communicates the historical fact
in an engaging way that allows youthful readers to identify with those first settlers as
ordinary human beings set into an extraordinary situation. Positive.
Clark, Mary Higgins. Mount Vernon Love Story. JH A fictionalized account of the full life of
George and Martha Washington based on solid research, but embroidered with motives,
conversations and emotions, this account is a bit slow and hard to follow for lower readers.
It bounces back and forth because its narrative frame is Washington’s leaving office after
his second term as President. Most of the story is told in a series of chronological
flashbacks beginning with his life as a youth establishing his relationship with his mother
and brothers, his background as surveyor and soldier, his crush on his good friend’s wife
(all very proper) and his growing love for Martha “Patsy” Custis, then the rest of their life
together. It’s a good portrayal, but may be too slow for most teenagers.
Clark, Mary Higgins and Carol Higgins Clark. The Christmas Thief. JH This novel is second in
a series of Christmas “mysteries” written by the mother and daughter authors. The plot
spins on a newly released from prison con man who has hidden away some of his ill gotten
gains, and now wants to find them. However, he chose to hide his loot in an eighty foot
blue spruce tree—which is due to be cut down to grace the Rockefeller Center! The plot
goes from there to semi humorous, based-on-coincidence complications which prove to be
only mildly engrossing/ entertaining. This novel is more along the order of “mysteries”
written by Carol, not the thriller quality of Mary. Ok, harmless, but not earthshakingly
good.
Clements, Andrew. Things Not Seen. MJ A wisecracking kid (narrator and protagonist) wakes
up one day to find himself invisible. Through the story his hollow relationship with his
parents improves--he gets beyond the scornful superiority and his parents value him more,
he gets a girlfriend, and learns about himself. Sort of positive, though the kid is still
obnoxiously superior to adults at the end of the story. Aimed mostly at middle
school/junior high. The book makes a big deal of him going around naked, since he looks
so wierd when, invisible, he walks around with clothes on, but relatively ok other than that
and the kid’s obnoxious snot-teen attitude towards adults. I think Clements was aiming at
a toned down Holden Caulfield kind of attitude.
Colfer, Eoin. Artemis Fowl. DRP 54 MJ Artemis Fowl is a millionaire genius, an evil
mastermind, and only twelve! He kidnaps a fairy from the LEPrecon Unit in order to gain
more power, but she and her cohorts fight back. The book reads like a cartoon written
down. It may appeal to young readers, but values are not exactly sterling, and the writing
seems immature, though some of the twists on mythical characters, the parody of fantasy
magic and the off the wall adventures are kind of cute. Not overly positive, but relatively
harmless.
The Supernaturalist. MJ Post apocalyptic again, this novel is a good addition for young
adults who like fantasy. It is a bit young for high schoolers, but still very entertaining:
Cosmo Hill is one of the boys in a state orphanage where the children are used for product
testing of all types in a brutal, dignity stripping way of life. He escapes the orphanage and
death, and with his jeopardy, develops a new ability--he can see wierd blue creatures that
alight on the hurt, sick and dying. His new ability makes him part of an elite group-supernaturalists--who hunt these creatures. Positive, with a hint of romance (he's 14!)
The Wish List. MJH Not part of the Artemis Foul series This is a weird little book. I’m
not sure kids will like it. Meg and her “friend” Belch are out to commit a little larceny,
burglarizing the home of an old man. But things turn serious when the old man is home:
the pair end up dead. Belch, no question, goes to hell, but Meg’s last minute kindness to
the man puts her soul’s ultimate end in doubt: she has one chance to end up in heaven.
She just must go back to earth as a ghost and help the old man fulfill his list of last wishes.
Some touches of humor, and a serious theme about living life to the fullest make the book
positive. Semi humorous exchanges between Beelzebub and St. Peter, and the novel’s
concepts of judgment and heaven and hell and what happens there may offend some who
take religion and the afterlife more seriously than the novel.
Collins, Suzanne. Mockingjay. JH The end to an excellent series was as anticipated with a
continuation of the excellent, tense post apocalyptic story--until the ending. I haven't
found too many readers who really wholeheartedly liked the ending because, though it was
mainly positive, it seemed rather bleak and unsatisfying, though some elements had us all
cheering.
Collier, James Lincoln and Christopher Collins. The Clock. DRP 47. JH Annie Steele’s father
has a problem. He spends money, but can’t seem to make enough to get out of debt. He
signs her up to work in the town’s new water-power driven woolen mill. When she and
her friend, Robert, discover that the mill’s abusive overseer is stealing, and when she is put
in danger by the overseer=s inappropriate advances, no one will listen, not even her father.
This novel presents the life of the working class in the early 19th Century realistically.
Positive. The touchy subject matter, sexual harassment, a very common danger for mill
girls, is handled skillfully. Positive.
Colfer, Eoin. Artemis Fowl. DRP 54 MJ Artemis Fowl is a millionaire genius, an evil
mastermind, and only twelve! He kidnaps a fairy from the LEPrecon Unit in order to gain
more power, but she and her cohorts fight back. The book reads like a cartoon written
down. It may appeal to young readers, but values are not exactly sterling, and the writing
seems immature, though some of the twists on mythical characters, the parody of fantasy
magic and the off the wall adventures are kind of cute. Not overly positive, but relatively
harmless.
The Wish List. MJH Not part of the Artemis Foul series This is a weird little book. I’m
not sure kids will like it. Meg and her “friend” Belch are out to commit a little larceny,
burglarizing the home of an old man. But things turn serious when the old man is home:
the pair end up dead. Belch, no question, goes to hell, but Meg’s last minute kindness to
the man puts her soul’s ultimate end in doubt: she has one chance to end up in heaven.
She just must go back to earth as a ghost and help the old man fulfill his list of last wishes.
Some touches of humor, and a serious theme about living life to the fullest make the book
positive. Semi humorous exchanges between Beelzebub and St. Peter, and the novel’s
concepts of judgment and heaven and hell and what happens there may offend some who
take religion and the afterlife more seriously than the novel.
Coman, Carolyn. Many Stones. DRP 50 JH A realistic story of a girl comes to terms with her
sister’s murder when she and her father journey to South Africa where the incident
occurred. Although the novel has a positive outcome, the casual attitude towards teen sex
at the beginning (it’s not explicit, but definitely present), as well as the negative tone, is
troubling.
Connelly, Neil. St. Michael’s Scales. H It’s too bad modern authors, like modern directors, have
to throw in a few gratuitous sexual references. This novel would be great to give reluctant
readers who like wrestling. The plot: a boy who feels guilt about his twin’s death at birth
and his mother’s subsequent mental illness has hallucinations during which his twin
directs him. He feels he must expiate his guilt by committing suicide. He is inveigled into
joining the wrestling team. Through wrestling and through association with other kids, he
comes to terms with his problems and changes for the better and decides who he is.
However, a graphic suicide scene (a one armed boy jumps out of a window), a worry about
penis size during his physical, and 1/4 page of dialogue about watching a pornographic
movie spoil the book for most of our readers.
Cooney, Caroline B. Both Sides of Time. JH #1 of the Time Travelers Series. In the beginning of
this series, protagonist Annie Lockwood, a 15 year old romantic with a very unromantic
boyfriend accidentally slips through time to 1895, witnesses a murder there, and falls in
love. However, she is brought up short to realize she's disturbing the lives of everyone she
cares for "on both sides of time." This emphasis on what Annie learns keeps the book from
being totally superficial light reading.
Enter Three Witches. JH I've got to say that Cooney has really improved over the years.
This novel is a really enticing retelling of Macbeth from the point of view of a ward of
Lord and Lady MacB--the daughter of the traitor Cawdor. I recommend this novel for
anyone who has to or already has read or viewed the Shakespeare version. It's good
adventure with extension of the historical and nonhistorical Shakespearean characters
The Face on the Milk Carton. DRP 52. JH Almost 16-year-old Janie is eating lunch with
friends, casually reading the “Have you seen this girl....” entry on her friend’s milk carton
when she realizes that in the picture accompanying the entry the girl is wearing her dress!
Then she begins to have flashbacks of memory fragments which makes her think maybe
she was the girl that had been kidnapped--twelve years before! Who are these people,
these good people, who raised her? Who is she? This novel has a well detailed plot with a
real dilemma that delves into the identity search of most teenagers. A caution: though
there are no “sex scenes,” the attitudes are “mature.” The novel concerns itself with her
boyfriend’s sexual yearnings and her own budding sexual feelings with a very casual
attitude towards casual sex. Though nothing actually happens, the novel very much
communicates that it would be ok if it did.
Goddess of Yesterday. JH This engaging and educational retelling of the
story of Helen of Troy is told from the point of view of a young (13 years old) captive
who has a definite viewpoint on Helen. The novel paints this fatal princess in the most
dire of terms as the young captive lives and survives adventures that run the gamut of
ancient world experience: watching friends killed, learning to use a sling and to ride,
making choices with often far reaching results, communicating with ancient gods,
experiencing love. Through the novel, young readers learn the world of the myths and
meet the characters of the epics: Menelaus, Priam, Cassandra, Hector and Andromache,
Paris and Helen. This novel would be a good accompaniment to the reading of the Iliad
or Odyssey, or to the study of mythology. Positive, with a good feminine role model and
enough violence for boys, as well.
For All Time. JH Part of the Time Travelers series concerning contemporary teen, Annie
Lockwood, and her true love, Strat. This novel combines time travel with 19th Century
Egyptian archaeology with 2000 B.C. Egyptian culture and life with 19th Century robber
baron ethics (or lack thereof). The story is an adventure romance. The female protagonist
travels back to the 19th Century to find the boy she left behind after an earlier adventure.
Meanwhile, the boy works on an archaeological dig in Egypt anonymously, trying to
escape his predatory robber-baron-rich father. This book moves quickly and could be a
little confusing to reluctant readers because of its skips back and forth in time, but shows
educationally fascinating views, though somewhat stereotypical in both action and
character, of both 19th Century and ancient Egypt. Positive and harmless.
The Terrorist. DRP 54. JH When her 11 year old brother is blown up in a terrorist
bombing in the London tube, Laura’s focus changes from empty headed concern over
clothes and boys to avowals of revenge and terror she will be the next target.
Unfortunately, the year her family is spending in London, with her attendance at an
international school filled with students from varied countries and cultures, becomes a
disaster rather than the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity it was meant to be. The denouement
is a little unbelievable, but Laura finally learns that her own credulousness almost ends in
a second disaster for her and her family. This plot could have been so much better if the
emphasis could have been on positive change in Laura. There isn’t much. She really
doesn’t learn much from the experience, except that Americans are too trusting when they
think everyone is basically good underneath. Inoffensive, but disappointing.
Twins. DRP 49. H Mary Lee and Madrigal are identical twins who seem two halves of
one whole. They seem exactly alike in every way. So when their parents decide to
separate them forcibly by sending Mary Lee away to go to a private school, she is
devastated, feeling bereft without the twin with whom she has almost telepathic
communication, and rejected: her parents must not want her around. She refuses to make
a place for herself in the new school, determined to force her parents to let her return
home. Then her twin comes to visit, and captivates her dorm and schoolmates with her
sparkling, social personality. And then Mary Lee has the chance to take her sister’s place,
to lead the friend filled, glamorous life her sister has carved for herself. But she finds that
her sister wasn’t necessarily just like her, nor did she always lead the life Mary Lee
imagined. The book is ultimately positive, but the sadism and hints at sexuality in the
book make it one to give only to mature readers.
Whatever Happened to Janie? DRP 52 JH Sequel to The Face on the Milk Carton. Now
Janie, having found her birth family from which she was kidnapped at age four, must go to
live with them. What happens doesn’t live up to their expectations or hers. Identity crises,
family relationships, what constitutes parenting, all these are topics the book treats. Be
careful. The same cautions about attitudes towards sex apply to this novel: nothing
explicit, lots of hinting around, approval of casual premarital sex, (even parental approval).
Cormier, Robert. Tunes for Bears to Dance To. DRP 55 MJH Excellent and mature book,
though very short (101 pages). Henry’s brother is killed by a hit and run driver,
destroying his father, who wallows in depression, and almost ruining the family. The
family moves to a new town, where Henry meets two fateful people: old Mr. Levine, a
survivor of the Holocaust who obsessively carves a miniature of his childhood village,
destroyed by the Nazis, and Mr. Hairston, Henry’s irascible boss. The theme of the book
deals with moral choices and the deliberate corrupting of the innocent by evil. Though
evil seems to win a bit, good finally comes out on top at the end. Positive.
Creech, Sharon. The Wanderer. DRP 52 MJH Source: Scholastic. A journey from New
England to Old in a sailboat leads the narrators (a girl and her boy “cousin”) to grow up.
Lots of good adventure, a bit of a mystery about what happened to the girl’s parents,
excellent dynamic characters who learn, grow, change, come to terms with their pasts.
Level unidentified. The girl could be middle/junior high, but the story might appeal to
high school readers, too. Positive.
Cronin, Justin. The Passage. H This post apocalyptic tale is long, but well worth the time. The
author skillfully creates MANY characters the reader cares about, with enough book to
develop the characters and show them living adventures that are full of jeopardy. The book
is ultimately positive, with lots of room for the rest of the projected trilogy. The language,
however, is adult, with a liberal scattering of F words.
Crossley-Holland, Kevin. The Seeing Stone (Book one The Arthur Trilogy) DRP 46 JH
This novel gives a vivid, almost brutal, picture of life in the year 999/1000 AD through the
narrative of Arthur de Caldicot, a young aristocratic youth growing up on the
English/Welch border as son of one of the March Lords. When his father’s friend Merlin
gives Arthur a secret fragment of obsidian, Arthur begins to see a different life, visions of
The great King Arthur, in the stone. I’m waiting to see students’ reactions to the novel.
It seems rather slow for much of the book, as the author builds a true picture of Medieval
life with not a lot of action. Positive. The rest of the trilogy promises to be interesting.
Crutcher, Chris. Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes. DRP 52 H This book reinforces my objections
to Chris Crutcher’s novels, since it had the same problems I saw in his earlier books. The
plot concerns a fat boy who takes up swimming and his friend, whose face was badly
burned in an accident when she was very young. The “villains” in the book are a
stereotyped unjust and sadistic vice principal and a fundamentalist Christian swimming
competitor who proves to be particularly hypocritical. My objections: spates of bad
language, and the “politically correct” attitudes--all fundamentalist Christians are
hypocritical morons who justify physical abuse of a child as a parent’s “right,” while good
guys are priests who accept all standards and sexual orientations, teachers who entertain
discussions of moral questions--as long as students are willing to accept immorality and
abortion as justified, and parents who accept any kind of behavior as a child’s choice, with
little real input. I’m sure that many people will think the book is ok, and Crutcher is a
good storyteller who creates engaging characters and situations. I wouldn’t have the book
in my classroom, because I’m not sure that kids could see through the propagandistic aims
of this kind of novel.
Curley, Marianne. Old Magic. JH This novel of magic pits Kate, who already knows about her
supernatural powers and Jarrod, who doesn’t against forces of evil in a time-raveling
journey into the Medieval past to undo a curse that has haunted Jarrod’s family for
generations. It is fun fantasy, but also deals with teen issues of bullying and social
ostracism. It is a little strong for middle schoolers, though the protagonists are 10th
graders. Ultimately positive, though PG 13 in places. Hints at sexual blackmail and
assault.
Curtis, Christopher Paul. Elijah of Buxton. Newbery Medal Winner 2008. MJ For the first two
thirds of this novel, I recognized that in plot, time period, theme and characters, this
novel was very derivative from Huckleberry Finn: the same innocent rogue for a narrator
(though Elijah is a free born black, rather than white, and is slightly younger than Huck—
12 years old), similar use of dialect, episodic (really picaresque) plot, with vivid
characters in a true to life historic setting contemporary with Huck’s. However, the last
third gives the true meaning of the novel, developing an authentic heart-tugging plot with
theme related to Huck, but with the too true-to-life counterpart of the actions Huck and
Tom make Jim go through at the end of Twain’s novel. The setting is different: Buxton
was a historic town established as a refuge for escaped or freed slaves in Canada. This
well written novel deserves its honors. Positive. However, the action and the explicit
portrayal of many of the worst aspects of this time of slavery would prove too strong for
`lower elementary grades, particularly at the end of the novel with violence and death.
The book, though aimed at 5-6th graders, is still appropriate for high school readers
interested in the effects of slavery on blacks and whites outside of the South and for the
point of view of blacks who have escaped or are trying to escape slavery.
Davis, Stephie. Smart Boys & Fast Girls. JH Natalie Page is the fast girl: one of the varsity
cross country team’s brightest stars, and only a sophomore. However, she feels unwanted,
unnoticed and unappreciated by her team, hunky boys, and her three best friends, all of
whom ignore her for their boyfriends. Then because her failing geometry grade endangers
her athletic eligibility, she is forced to submit to tutoring by a real “math geek,” an
annoying “smart boy” who thinks she’s stupid. Predictable, but positive and enjoyable
“chick” novel.
Dekker, Ted. Blink H This one is blatantly Christian and horrendously far fetched, with a
protagonist with an IQ no one has ever achieved and the gift of precognition that comes
and goes, a precognition that not only sees what will happen, but what could happen in all
the multiple variants of reality that might result. And he needs that gift: to rescue a Saudi
princess from her evil father, evil adopted father, and evil suitor who hopes by marrying
the princess to make an alliance to overthrow the Saudi king and turn Saudi Arabia into an
Islamist state, thereby threatening the peace of the world. Though the plot is far fetched,
the characters are intriguing, the view of Islam and Saudi royalty is informative (semi
factual?), though biased. The novel’s protagonist struggles with the age old dilemma: if
God knows everything, then He knows the future (witness: prophets). If he knows what
will happen, how can man have free will? Thus, for man to have free will, there must not
be an omniscient God. As the protagonist sees varying views of the future and chooses
between them, manipulating reality, he becomes an atheist: how can God be omniscient,
since there is no one future for Him to know? The novel’s proposed solution is a bit far
fetched, as is the scenario. The novel’s fast paced and fun to read, but includes some
offensive brutality (include an Islamic punishment taken from Princess where a father is
forced to drown his daughter in their family pool because she refuses the husband forced
upon her by her family his “right” to sex. ) Probably not a book that would attract most
students: ok for a fundamentalist or religious kid not offended by brutality and language
who likes adventure stories that really stretch reason.
Dessen, Sarah. Dreamland. DRP 54 H Caitlin’s idealized older sister, on whom her parents
have always doted, has run away from a promising life complete with Ivy League college
admission to work on an expose TV program and be with a questionable boyfriend.
Because Caitlin struggles with her parents’ withdrawal and her own feelings of guilt over
her sister, she is particularly vulnerable to new boyfriend Rogerson Biscoe. As he
becomes progressively more violent, she hangs on to the relationship because she seems to
have nothing else to hang onto. Ultimately positive, though she doesn’t break away. The
novel offers a good portrayal of such abusive dating relationships.
Just Listen. Sarah Dessen takes on typical teen issues and deals with them frankly and
maturely, with ultimately positive endings. These novels, as this one, ARE mature and
handle sexual issues and include language. This one tells the story of a girl deserted by
friends to become an social pariah who must learn from the experience, and with the hope
This Lullaby. I really like reading Sarah Dessen, though I wish she'd clean up her dialogue
language. This one includes a bit of profanity along with the F word, unfortunately. Her
characterization, plots and positive themes make her writing worth reading, despite the
offensive language (which is only occasional). This novel concerns a girl with a mother
who drifts from husband to husband trying to find love, while the girl, in reaction, shuts
herself out of allowing herself to be vulnerable. She also goes from relationship to
relationship, even sexual, but only until she begins to get involved--then SHE shuts the
relationship off. Ultimately positive, the novel would be a good one for mothers to read
and discuss with daughters on the brink of dating and relationships and the reality of love
and sex.of a “bad” boy, move on. Positive.
The Truth about Forever. JH At last, a teen love story that deals with real issues, so it’s
not just froth, but isn’t dirty! Sarah Dessen proves her mettle as a writer when she deals
with the effects of grief on a family which has tragically lost its center, their
husband/father. The protagonist, 16 year old Macy, is dealing with her grief by trying to
be perfect for her mother, a rising real estate developer, and her boyfriend, who is already
perfect, especially in his own eyes. Then into her structured, “safe” world comes a
catering crew that teaches her that chaos, diversity, and challenge can stretch her and
assuage her grief with friendship, understanding, and a different kind of love.
Deuker, Carl. Heart of a Champion. Seth and Jimmy have been friends forever, close friends
drawn together by a mutual love of baseball, but then the game begins to divide them:
Seth struggles to make varsity, while Jimmy looks like he’s going pro some day. Then a
climactic decision forces them to reevaluate their friendship: they must question their
values, their identity, and the values of sports. Positive with some language
Night Hoops. Nick’s older brother Scott has always had Nick’s father’s attention and
approval, until he decides he wants to excel in music and rejects basketball. So Nick gains
his father’s attention and pressure, especially when he earns a spot as a sophomore on the
varsity team. His next decision is when Nick’s mother gives a troubled neighbor boy
permission to use Nick’s backyard hoop, and the two begin to play basketball secretly
together, late into the night. Their growing friendship leads Nick to question the value of
sports and the definition of sportsmanship and identity. Positive, with language.
On the Devil’s Court. DRP 50. JH Though the protagonist of the story is a little young
for high school readers, the story is one that will keep them going. Joe’s successful
scientist father and his sculptor mother make him feel a failure, and insignificant, too,
because the academics they value do not come easy to him. Then one day, beginning with
basketball, Joe becomes a success in all areas of his life--because he made a deal with the
devil? Very positive with lots of good athletic stuff. A little language.
Painting the Black. DRP 49 JH The title refers to a pitcher’s ability to skim the very
edge of the outside of the base to make the pitch questionable--strike or ball, a good
metaphor for the antagonist’s actions. Ryan Ward, who lost all confidence when a
devastating accident crushes his athletic ability, begins to play baseball again his senior
year when charismatic football/baseball star, Josh moves in across the street and begins
practicing with Ryan. However, Ryan’s friendship with Josh presents him with a crucial
moral dilemma--just before the state championship game. Positive, with lots to talk and
write about. Very good athletic portions both football and basketball. Presents the
question of how much sports ability should excuse really despicable character. Positive
with just a little language.
DiCamillo, Kate. The Tiger Rising. DRP 46 MJH Source: Scholastic. Deals with a common
problem: a boy who is new, his mother newly dead of cancer. He meets the challenge of
persecution by the others, along with a girl whose parents are newly divorced who also
faces persecution by the “natives.” He finds a tiger, which changes him. Both main
characters change for the better during the story. Level is ambiguous, since age/ level of
school isn’t identified as middle, junior high or high school. Positive, but not resolved at
the end.
Dokey, Cameron. Beauty Sleep. JH This charming narrative tells the story of Sleeping Beauty,
with a rather liberated 16 year old Aurore and surprising fairies, princes and other royalty.
Positive, with a meaningful theme of misunderstood motives and characters who suffer
from lack of love and from lack of being valued by those around them. The book includes
its share of adventure, along with the magic and romance. Positive.
Before Midnight. JH Another in the series of “Once Upon a Time,” this tale is a retelling
of Cinderella—if her father didn’t die, but instead, well, you’ll need to read the story to
find out. The story is actually MUCH more positive than the original fairy tale, with a
spirited heroine, a heroic prince, and a godmother who isn’t a fairy, at all. There is an
element of magic, but most of the magic grows from human love and courage. Positive.
Belle. JH Part of the "Once upon a time" series, this delightful retelling of "Beauty and
the Beast" will satisfy and entertain everyone with an ounce of romance and a hankering
for fairy tale fantasy. Dokey follows her pattern: she writes a good, engaging fantasy tale
and combines her story with insights that young people can use in their own lives. I
actually liked the "beast" in this one, though we could have seen more of him to really
characterize him well.
Hindenburg 1937. JH This novel does a good job of telling the story of the Hindenburg
disaster, with a reasonable explanation of who was responsible for the conflagration. It
gives good background on Nazi Germany and the conflicting loyalties of many young
Germans. However, the romance story that forms the basic plot is hackneyed and
formulaic, not up to the other books I have read by this author. The book is positive and
harmless, with vivid description of the disaster.
How not to Spend Your Senior Year. JH Jo and her father have moved from
place to place, to the point that Jo doesn’t even unpack her suitcases. Now they have
moved into a real house. Jo has a best friend who lives next door, and the student body
president shows signs of wanting to be her boyfriend. But her dad tells her they have to
move again…NOW. A faked death and an improbable “exchange” of journalism students
between two high schools make the plot really hard to swallow, but characterization and
dialogue make the book fun to read. Positive and harmless.
The Storyteller’s Daughter. DRP 51 JH A fairy-folk tale retelling of the story of
Scheherazade, this story is entertaining and appealing. It’s a bit mature for young readers:
It begins with a queen’s adultery and curse. Positive. Lots of adventure, but with a
female protagonist and romance as the central pivot.
Sunlight and Shadows JH Part of the "once upon a time" retold fairy tale series, by Cameron
Dokey (probably the best author in the series, with consistently good tales), this novel retells
"The Magic Flute," a story most of us aren't familiar with. The story's well told with multiple
narrators so that the reader identifies with several characters.
Washington Avalanche 1910. H. Again, good historical material on the disaster and how
people managed to survive it, etc., BUT terribly cheap, predictable love story with girl
going to the boy’s pullman bunk to seduce him. Not explicit, but not moral, and NOT
typical of a gently raised girl in 1910, but then again, maybe I’m naive about gently raised
girls in 1910. It seems like this whole series had guidelines for what had to be included:
lots of explicit feelings when he first touches her, when they dance together. Really corny
sensuality. I wouldn’t recommend this book.
Donnelly, Jennifer. Revolution. H This novel is a dual treat: a treatment of a girl who is trying to
escape/survive a horrible family tragedy for which she feels responsible, along with one of
the best depictions of how it would be to live through the horror of the French Revolution,
with focus on what happened to the tragic young Louis XVII. It's a gripping narrative with
a touch of fantasy interwoven with all of the well researched historical details. It begins
bleakly, with the girl trying to escape her own guilt through very strong sedatives, then
contemplating suicide, but the book, despite some offensive language and a bit of
sensuality and acceptance of casual sex, is very positive and well worth reading for mature
teen readers. I would have liked more detail in an appendix about which of her characters
and details are wholly fictional and which are based on actual historical personages.
Draper, Sharon M. Romiette and Julio. DRP 49. JH Montague moves from Texas, where his
hispanic background is well accepted, to Cincinnatti, where he feels alienated until he
meets Romiette Capelle, an Afro American girl with whom he feels an instant bond. The
friendship progresses well until the gang that rules their school tries to step in to break
them up. Tragedy almost results. Positive. References to Shakespeare abound. Could be
better written, but harmless.
Dreiser, Theodore. An American Tragedy. Classic H This book deserves its classification as
classic, but it's so bleak and naturalistic to the extreme, with characters trapped by their
own character and by their backgrounds and environments, with coincidence/fate to push
them into their particular tragedies, that the novel is really hard to read.
Duprau, Jeanne. The City of Ember. ALA Notable. MJH In this alternate reality, at twelve
people draw their jobs. Lina desperately wants to be a messenger, but instead draws the
job of pipeworks laborere, working in damp tunnels under the city. Doon, on the other
hand, draws the job of messenger, but he yearns to work underground, location of the
generator which keeps the city and its light going. The city seems to be winding down,
and lights flicker and go out in fearsome blackouts. The two, logically, change jobs, but
the discoveries each makes brings them together to change their lives, and the history of
Ember, forever. Positive beginning book in a series. Good for sci fi readers of all levels,
though aimed at middle/junior high. The characterization, situations and issues will
involve older readers. The story is reminiscent of Rand’s Anthem and would make a good
companion piece to that book, though it doesn’t have the propaganda theme of Rand’s
novel.
Eberhardt, Thom. Rat Boys. DRP 54 JH This novel is a delightful fantasy--except the author
HAD to add a little sexuality and innuendo. It concerns two gals who need a date to a
dance, and a magic ring that transforms two rats (a la Cinderella) to two hunks to give
them those dates--and the ensuing conflicts with boys who are really rats, with lack of
language, manners, behavior that carries with it. Lots of humor. Positive, mostly, but with
suggestions of sexuality (one boy gets a stain on his shirt and the girl has to take off the
stained shirt; the author records her physical reactions, predictably; concern when the rats
go with two girls into the parking lot, etc.). References are subtle, but definite.
Efaw, Amy. Battle Dress. H I was disappointed that this story wasn't really true. Based on the
author's real experiences, it tells the story of a girl champion runner with a horrible mother
joins the military to escape. The story tells her experiences at West Point in the weeks of
intense training and psychological testing before the actual plebe year begins. Good
characterization, but the girl's continual rising above the hazing and prejudice of her
superiors and peers should have been TRUE to have the impact the author intended. The
novel makes for pleasurable reading, because the reader roots for her to overcome the
obstacles, but I would have been happier with the author's REAL story (probably not as
dramatic and politically correct?).
Eldred, Tim. Grease Monkey. JH This graphic novel is actually a series of “comic book” sized
stories that build chapter by chapter into a fully realized novel. An interesting science
fiction variation on the typical “coming of age” story, the graphic novel focuses on
teenage Robin, a literal space cadet aboard an enormous flagship base to multiple air
squadrons. Robin is assigned as a trainee mechanic under Mac, a sentient gorilla.
Together they maintain the aircraft of Barbarian Squadron, a team of very liberated
women pilots who compete against the men’s teams. The “novel” challenges reluctant
readers, who must use higher level inferences to “get’ some of the humor and cleverness
of the plot. The only truly objectionable material to me was the PC digs at religion in an
episode toward the end of the book which needn’t have been written in at all. The
reference is more than irreverence; to me it borders on sacrilege. The rest of the novel is
positive and fun to read.
Elliott, L.M. Under a War-Torn Sky. JH Based on true accounts, this novel traces a 19 year old
Air Force pilot shot down behind enemy lines in Europe just before D Day of World War
II.. He must survive as he makes his way guided by Resistance workers, learning much
about evil, violence, goodness, and living. Suspenseful and tear-jerking, with some
glancing sexual references (PG only). Positive, with the author’s explanations of how
much is “true” at the end.
Engdahl, Sylvia. Enchantress from the Stars. DRP 57 JH Newbery Honor Book. A far
advanced civilization possessing technology and able to use psy/ESP mind tools, as well,
lands on a primitive (medieval-type) planet to rescue the inhabitants from technology rich
invaders who see the natives as sub human. Elana, a novice member of the advanced
civilization’s expedition, helps one of the natives by allowing him to think of her as a
supernatural enchantress. Complications result with fast moving adventures after the first
few, slow, chapters.
Evanovich, Janet. Metro Girl. H Well, no obligatory explicit sex in this delightful book, but
language and lots of relatively crude references do mar the novel. What makes the book
delightful and kept me reading despite the sexual references was the humor and repartee in
this thriller, along with the protagonist: a feminine tough gal who knows mechanics and
NASCAR. The novel is fairly well plotted, though not overly credible. Note: this author
writes many contemporary mysteries. All that I have perused have this raunchiness.
Fantaskey, Beth. Jekel Loves Hyde. Jill Jekel is an outcast whose scientist father was brutally
murdered--after he had withdrawn from the family and taken all of Jill's college fund for a
mysterious project. Tristen Hyde is a good looking loner struggling with his family's
inherited traits, prone to blackouts and horribly bloody dreams. Inevitably the two are
drawn together to relive events that come right out of Stevenson's classic. I didn't like the
book because the characters are stereotyped, the plot depends on coincidence and is just
too corny, and the relationship between the two protagonists is too much like Meyer's
vampire and his moll, with almost explicit, almost sex that teases teen sensuality.
Farmer, Nancy. The house of the Scorpion. MJH This fantasy adventure tells the story of
Matteo Alacran, who was “harvested” as a clone of El Patron, lord of the country Opium,
a country between the US and Mexico ruled by feudal land owners who grow drugs to
sell in their neighboring countries. Matt struggles to carve out an existence and an
identity in the face of El Patron’s power hungry family, bodyguards and evil patrols.
Though Matt is 14 by the end of the novel, the story of his struggles makes a positive and
engaging adventure which will appeal to most readers from upper elementary to adult.
Ferguson, Alane. The Angel of Death. JH (see The Christopher Killer, the first in this series)
Cameryn continues her adventures as a forensic scientist in training, though she’s still in
high school. When a dog is found dead, looking as though it exploded from the inside, no
one will pay attention to Cameryn and her young deputy sheriff friend. When a popular
teacher is found similarly murdered, others begin to pay attention, but is their attention too
late and too dismissive to save others’ lives? Who is the killer, and can Cameryn, using
forensic science and observation, help to stop him? Positive and innocuous, though not
overly subtle.
The Christopher Killer. JH If you are looking for mysteries attractive to those who are
fans of the various CSI TV programs, this series is for you. Cameryn has read and studied
forensics, tutored by her father, coroner of their small Colorado tourist community. She
now wants to experience the real thing, so her father “hires” her as his assistant, to take
pictures and help him observe crime scenes. Of course, her drive takes her further. She
gets personally involved when one of the victims of a serial killer proves to be a girl she
works with, her friend. The mystery involved is a bit predictable, but the science is
fascinating, and the novel is clean and positive
The Circle of Blood. JH The third in this junior CSI series is the best so far. Cameryn
becomes involved in the murder of a teenage girl, but she hides her involvement to shield
her troubled mother. The relationships involved intertwine with the mystery. This
addition to the series is clean and positive.
Fforde, Jasper. The Eyre Affair. (Thursday Next #1) H How to classify this novel...a mix of
fantasy and mystery with challenging and entertaining classical allusion thrown in. In a
1980's alternate universe, a dastardly supernatural villain is stealing originals of classical
literature, beginning with a Dickens--and murdering the characters! A literary detective
agent of the government has to track down and stop the villain, whom she knows too well.
The literary allusions abound in this book, which is recommended to anyone who loves
mysteries, allusions, whimsy and fun. It is adult, however, with language and casual moral
standards.
Finney, Patricia. The Lady Grace Mysteries. New York: Delacourt/Random House, 2004.
MJH If you need a historical novel that teaches about the court and times of Queen
Elizabeth I, this series will provide you with delightful reading, purportedly from the
“daybook” of Lady Grace Cavendish, 13-year-old (at the beginning of the series) maid of
honor to the queen. This plucky modern-seeming heiress, orphaned and raised in the
court, along with her friends, a young court acrobat/juggler and one of the laundry girls,
investigate mysteries to aid their monarch, reveal the villains, and aid the victims. The
mysteries are plotted engagingly, but the best part of the series is that it allows readers to
learn details and sweeps of Renaissance English life painlessly. Positive and fun.
Assassin. (Book One) Though stretching credibility with identical twins who switch
places, this mystery entertains while it paints a picture of life in the (dangerous) court of
Elizabeth. Lady Grace must find out who killed one of her three suitors before the suitor
she favors goes to the Tower, and his own death.
Betrayal. (Book Two) Has Lady Grace’s competitor, a fellow maid of honor, been
kidnapped by the legendary and gallant Sir Francis Drake? Like a Shakespearean heroine,
Lady Grace disguises herself as a boy and works on a galleon to find out the solution to the
mystery.
Fitzpatrick, Becca. Hush, hush. Series: Hush, hush #1. H This Twilight wannabe gives the
reader plenty of fantasy adventure and lots of teen angst romance, just as Meyers' novels.
The quality is maybe one step up, because the romance isn't as self absorbed and endless.
The adventure, involving fallen angels and their opponents, ends in heroic self sacrifice, so
the novel is basically positive, with some blurring of good/bad lines. Some language and
crudities, some sensuality, but generally ok
Fleischman, Paul. Bull Run. DRP 54 MJH Though these narrations are well done, and the
book gives a good overall picture of the battle, I personally think that the reader is not
allowed to know ANY of the characters well enough to care enough. I also think this book
would be more confusing than informational to most teenagers who do not already know
the major outlines of the battle. I would have liked to see far fewer narrators with much
more real detail of action and reaction. The book is short; I think it is too short. It will
appeal to lazy or challenged readers because of the shortness; however, challenged readers
would NOT be able to keep track of the characters and the action. The book would make
little/no sense to that kind of reader.
Saturnalia. DRP 60. JH This DRP is misleading. The book is very short (109 pages
with large print and space between lines), and the story is engaging enough for reluctant
readers. The setting is Boston, December 1681. The protagonist, William is the printer’s
very intelligent apprentice--and a Narragansett Indian captured by the Puritans when his
village and family were massacred. Confronted with the hostility of the tithingman (a
religious sheriff) that could result in his hanging and an unexpected encounter with his
uncle and cousin, who are virtual slaves that he wants to free, he must decide between his
two cultures--Native American or newly American. Positive. Good pairing with Richter’s
Light in the Forest.
Fletcher, Susan. Shadow Spinner. DRP 51. MJH Marjan is a moslem slave in the house of
Jewish merchants who have raised her as their own. Her crippled foot doesn’t keep her
from dreaming, imagining stories. And now the sultan’s wife, Shahrazad, needs those
stories--to keep herself and all of the other young women of the kingdom alive. Though
the protagonist is young, this girl’s adventure story will appeal to all ages. Authentic
background of Medieval Persian culture, though the basic story is mythic.
Friesner, Esther. Nobody’s Princess. H An ironic title, if I ever heard one. Now, I’ve never
identified with Helen of Troy. Legends seem to portray her as a beautiful, probably
spoiled, princess and wife, victimized, sort of, by gods and men alike. This novel traces
her life as a teenager, portraying a very different (and contemporary) Helen who chafes at
the role tradition pictures for her and takes her fate in her own hands to defy destiny and
the gods to carve out her own life with sword in hand. Positive and fun, with a good
summary of what we know of the legendary Helen. Part of a series.
Funke, Cornelia. Inkheart. EMJH What would happen if, when you read a book out loud, your
reading had the power to call the characters out of the pages of the book, making them real
in our world? That’s the premise of this fantasy. And what if the characters were often
villains and monsters? And what if they learn you have that ability and want you to bring
out more villains and monsters to extend their power? Though the protagonist of the
novel is a twelve year old girl, the action, ominous mood of much of the book, and themes
make it appropriate for older readers. This novel might pose an interesting contrast to
Fahrenheit 451. Positive. I liked this novel much better than the next title. This German
author has many more fantasy novels not yet translated into English.
The Thief Lord. MJ and maybe younger H This novel, translated from the original
German, was disappointing. The story is engaging: orphaned brothers escape from nasty
aunt/guardian to Venice, a city their mother told them about. They are taken in by a band
of homeless children living in an abandoned movie theater. The leader is the elusive “thief
lord,” a young thief who keeps the band in food and clothing by stealing, then having the
band sell, trinkets and other items from tourists and rich mansions. Complications come
with the detective hired by the aunt/guardian to find the orphaned boys and with a
commission to steal a mysterious wooden wing from a rich lady. The story is told
engagingly. The disappointment comes in the last quarter of the book where the
supernatural is inserted in with a fabled carousel that will turn people young or old,
depending on where they sit or which direction the carousel goes (unclear), and the too
pat, contrived ending where everyone gets what they want, though a few ends and hints are
never satisfied/tied in. It’s all right as a book, but just doesn’t live up to the promise of the
early chapters. I have been told by younger readers that this novel is their favorite book. It
may be best for younger readers.
Gaiman, Neil. Coraline. M with care, JH Although this book is aimed at a younger audience
(the reading seems to be on an elementary school level), it should be handled with care in
middle school because it is weird enough to be disturbing to sensitive kids. Coraline goes
through a door in her home to an alternate reality, where things are not what they seem (as
is the case with most alternate realities in these horror stories). At first, that reality seems
better: mother and father pay attention to Coraline, give her food she likes, cater to her.
But then she finds out what they really intend for her. The story is told simply, but
engagingly, and in a very real, almost prosaic manner, which makes the horror more
horrible. Positive.
Gantos, Jack. Joey Pigza Loses Control. DRP 49 M A sequel to Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key.
A boy with ADHD must deal with his father who is convinced Joey can control himself
without the medication he so sorely needs and takes the medication away. Joey narrates,
allowing him to express what it feels like to be ADHD and unmedicated, the trouble that
he really doesn’t mean to cause and the outcome, when he loses a ballgame (as pitcher) his
father pressured him to win because he is unmedicated. He then TAKES control, finding
his mother and the welcome medication. The book subtly suggests the history of his
ADHD: his self medicating, obviously ADHD dad and his grandmother, dying of lung
disease, but unable NOT to smoke. Joey doesn’t identify his age (5th grade?), but the book
would be appropriate for any ADHD sufferer. Aimed at late elementary. Too young for
high school. Positive.
Gardner, Sally. I, Coriander. MJH This book is one of the many fantasy/historical books
published now in England. Set in the midst of Oliver Cromwell’s Protectorate, it captures
the feelings and problems of the mortals and their immortal counterparts during the
upheaval that preceded the Restoration. It’s a fun girl’s book, full of romance and
adventure, along with a hearty dose of alternate history. Explanation at the end of the
book sorts out what is real historical detail and what is fiction. Positive, fun to read.
George, Elizabeth. This Body of Death. Adult. I really like this author's plots and especially her
continuing characters and their relationships, all true of this number in the series.
HOWEVER, I stopped reading her long ago because each book includes seductive,
explicit sex scenes. I picked this one up after a quick perusal because I had to find a book
to buy in a grocery store with no alternative but sitting with nothing to do for a couple of
hours (I thought it would be safe because the main character's wife was dead--but not
quite). This book has less of the explicit sex, but it includes horrific details of a senseless,
horrifying murder of a child by two other children. You need to know about the murder,
which isn't the main puzzle at all, but does finally connect; however, in my opinion, the
details of this horrific crime skewer the feeling of the book into an indictment of humanity,
a more negative view than I'd rather read.
George, Jessica Day. Sun and Moon, Ice and Shadow. JH A retold fairly tale, This retelling of
"east of the sun, west of the moon" recreates Norse Medieval peoples and myths in a well
paced, fun adventure that most young teen girls will really enjoy. The protagonist, lured
by a gigantic polar bear to his castle by his promise to make her family richer, finds that
the castle—and the bear—are not all that they seem. She must undertake a dangerous
journey to open her path to an enchanted love.
Giles, Gail. What Happened to Cass McBride? JH Kyle Kirby plots a cruel revenge on the
most popular, and most heartless, girl in the school because he blames her for the death
of his brother. He digs a hole, kidnaps her, and puts her in a coffin shaped box—
underground. This positive novel examines the question of responsibility for the
consequences of our actions in a gripping tale. Because of alternating points of view,
reflected in the differing fonts, the novel is hard to follow at first. Readers should hold
on. The novel is worth the effort and discomfort. Positive, with lots for readers to talk
about.
Godbersen, Anna. The Luxe. H This novel traces the decisions and drama of upperest class
society girls of Manhattan, 1899. Beautiful Elizabeth Holland, from one of the premier
old blood families of the city, is in love with—well, that would be telling, but someone
very unsuitable. Her mother is pressuring her to marry another old blood scion—who’s
been stringing along Elizabeth’s most bitter rival. This book is the first in a series, so the
ending is not overly satisfying. My other objection is the amount of sexual immorality.
It. may have been acceptable among society girls of the time, but I doubt it. The
assumption is the modern one that although it was scandalous if public, everyone was
routinely sleeping with everyone else, quite casually, and it was ok if they loved each
other. I suspect that attitude is anachronistic for this time period, but the upper classes
have so long been a law unto themselves, such immorality may well have been the rule,
as it is in this novel. The sex is not explicit, but omnipresent. Characters seem a bit
stereotyped. I wouldn’t recommend the novel, really, though it’s fairly innocuous.
Gordon, Amy. When JFK Was my Father. DRP 48 MJ Protagonist, a young girl who has been
living with her parents in Brazil. When they split, she returns to the US with her mother,
who immediately puts her into a boarding school. She dreams of a real family, with
parents who are concerned with her and loving, but since she doesn’t have that, she
imagines JFK to be her father and talks to him in her mind. After his assassination, she
meets a boy she knew in Brazil who tries to talk her into running away from the school.
She realizes there are people who care about her. Positive, but a little too outside our kids’
experience to be high interest. Young--aimed at junior high.
Gould, Steven. Wildside. DRP 50. Eighteen year old Charlie Newell’s uncle has left him his
ranch-- and the door in the barn that leads to an alternate reality where man never evolved.
Charlie and his friends use their knowledge very cleverly to make themselves rich, and
experience adventures and learn about themselves, as well as a nature that lives in our
world only in their imaginations. Interesting premise, but the story is so politically correct
as to promote casual acceptance of premarital sex and the outing of one of the main
characters as a homosexual
Grange, Amanda. Mr. Darcy’s Diary. H Another version of Pride and Prejudice, this time from
Darcy’s point of view. It follows the original faithfully. If you liked the original, this
novel is worth reading. My only hesitation: it’s supposed to be a diary, but he writes
down things that are necessary to carry the action along that seem unnatural for Darcy to
record. Positive and fun to read.
Grant, Cynthia D. The Cannibals. JH What an awful book! Told by a head cheerleader who is
going out with the best looking guy in school, the story draws on the worst of stereotypes,
has no real plot that is not so predictable that it is sickening, and is just plain a cheap
excuse for trying to exploit the teen market. It’s supposed to be funny, but is merely
shallow. I wouldn’t recommend this one to anyone, no matter how desperate.
Haddix, Margaret Peterson. Among the Betrayed. DRP 54 MJH Alternate future narrative
where overpopulation forces some children to become outlaw because they’re born third
(or later) in their family. The narrative moves quickly as a girl confronts various moral
issues such as betraying others to save her own life, etc. The writing and plotting are a bit
immature, and the protagonist is only 13, but the tension and adventure would probably
carry even high school readers. Positive.
Among the Hidden. DRP 54 MJH First in the series. Luke has been hidden by his
backwoods family throughout his 12 years of life, restricted in what he can do outdoors to
his parents lands, only in areas no one could see. Now the government has “bought” his
parents’ lands for development. He is forced to stay indoors--an even more restricted life.
However, he finds he can look out of an upstairs window--where he sees a girl’s face in
the window of a house which should have no additional children. He realizes that she
must live the same threats he lives. Positive, though young for high schoolers.
Among the Hidden. DRP 54 MJH The first in the series mentioned above. This novel
tells the story of Luke, whose struggling farm family hides him. The conflict comes when
their rural farm is taken by the government to develop into subdivisions, destroying the
farm and woods that made hiding Luke easier. When a government authority’s family
moves into one of the new homes, Luke discovers he is not along, and learns he can risk
all to protest his predicament. Positive. Easy. Though meant for a younger audience,
high school readers will enjoy this novel and its alternate reality.
Just Ella. DRP 61 JH What happened to Cinderella after the prince found her? In this
revisionist version, she is taken to the palace to be “educated” in her role of princess
before her marriage to Prince Charming. But the prince and palace life do not prove to be
what she imagined. This version is clean, with a positive and “politically correct” ending.
Could be read from mature junior high on up. Subtle threat of rape, some violence, so not
for the faint of heart or the sheltered.
Takeoffs and Landings. JH Lori and Chuck are brother and sister, but not much else.
Lori’s hostility toward her brother and her mother wells up from a deep anger. Chuck’s
isolation is haunting. Their mother is too busy and distant to deal with their problems
because she makes her living as a motivational speaker, flying all over the country, gone
from them most of the time. None of them mention or want to deal with the hole in their
lives: the children’s father’s death in a horrific accident 8 years before. Now their
mother is taking Chuck and Lori with her on one of her trips—and the flood gates of the
past open first a crack, then a gap in the walls that separate the three. Told 3rd person, but
from alternating points of view of the three main characters. Very positive. Excellent
narrative that reveals details little by little as the three are transformed by the trip they
share. The symbolism of taking off and landing is well integrated into the story.
Hahn, Mary Downing. Stepping on the Cracks. DRP 50. M This engaging novel gives a good
picture of family life on the Home Front of World War II. The 11 going on 12 year old
protagonist is a timid follower of her best friend with her stronger personality. So the class
bully teases and torments the frightened protagonist--until she and her friend discover that
the mysterious shack the bully visits in the woods across the tracks harbors a deserter--his
gentle, pacifist brother. Good themes and good picture of wartime living. Positive. The
story might be useful for junior high US Studies, but is too young for high school, though
issues of pacifism, patriotism and physical abuse in families are treated well and would
really form the basis for good discussions and writing assignments.
Hale, Shannon. Austinland. H This novel, unlike Hale’s fantasies, is aimed mainly at adult
women, but most teenage girls will like it. Jane, the protagonist, is near 40, very unlucky
in love, and (either as cause or effect) obsessed with Jane Austin, specifically Colin Firth’s
Darcy in Pride and Prejudice. Her wise great aunt wills her three weeks at Austinland,
where Jane lives her fantasy, a time “playing” at being a Regency maiden courted sedately
by personifications of the typical Regency rakes and gentlemen. Through her
disconcerting attempts to put to rest her too-real fantasies, Jane comes to know herself
better, and even…fall in love. Positive and fun, but be warned—the implied sexual
morality is more mainstream than Nebo approved.
Book of a Thousand Days. MJH (Oddly enough, the book is actually the
journal of 1110 days) This typical Hale fantasy is very like her others: a girl who
considers herself less than her peers shows pluck and courage enough to rescue her
superiors. Set in a Mongolian cultural/geographical fantasy land, the novel traces the
history of Dashti and her mistress, Saren, who is walled up in a tower by her father
because she refuses the advances of a brutal but powerful lord with a horrifying secret.
The adventure is fun and the romance is engaging. Positive, but with some explicit
violence.
Enna Burning. JH This strange fantasy centers on Enna, whose brother finds a vellum that
reveals the secret of calling fire from the air. But this strange power comes with a price: it
can take over, destroy the person using it. Enna must learn to master this strange power to
help save everything she loves without destroying herself. She learns trust, self sacrifice,
discipline and the true value of friendship in this entertaining read. Positive.
Goose Girl. JH A superior addition to the new retold fairy tale genre, this novel tells the
story of Isi, a crown princess who has no “people skills,” but has talent to talk to and
understand birds (specifically, swans) and her horse. When her lady in waiting takes her
identity, Isi, her life in danger, hides among peasant servants, herding geese. Besides a
good plot and engaging adventure, the novel features a truly dynamic character in Isi, who
changes and grows, however unwillingly. Positive, though jeopardy and violence make
the novel more suitable to more mature readers.
Princess Academy. JH Miri, because of her small stature and vulnerability, is never
allowed to work at the quarry her village depends upon for livelihood. When the village is
honored as the location from which the crown prince’s bride will come, the girls must be
educated at a special academy—in a location isolated and distant from the village. It is in
this competitive environment where Miri shines, but also discovers some disturbing things
about what is really going on. The story is positive with themes involving the nature of
relationships—family, friends, competitors, social groups.
Harrison, Mette Ivie, The Princess and the Hound. JH This fairy tale/fantasy seems darker than
the normal froth. The novel revolves around secrets and challenges: the prince’s secret is
his animal magic, since this gift is forbidden and practitioners are hunted and killed
throughout his kingdom. His challenge is his strained relationship with his father and the
precarious state of the kingdom, threatened on all sides by stronger enemies. Then comes
the challenge of his marriage—with the daughter of an enemy ruler. But she’s not the
stereotypical princess: she seems only to care about the hound from which she is never
separated. Maybe she will be one to whom the prince can confide his secret? But she
comes with secrets of her own. Positive, though dark.
Hautzig, Deborah. Second Star to the Right. JH This novel is really a barely fictionalized
autobiographical account of the author’s struggle with anorexia. It records the thought
patterns, behavior, addiction that not eating becomes in a girl’s struggle to gain control
over her life in the light of a demanding mother, an absent father, and internal conflicts
which tear the girl apart. The only drawback is the open ending, with only the author’s
note at the end to shed light on what happened after the “novel” ends. The ending is
mostly positive, since the girl is in treatment and making progress. It is realistic, since it
does not offer false hope or paint a rosy picture with false recoveries.
Head, Ann. Mr. and Mrs. Bo Jo Jones. DRP 50 H This book was written in the 60’s, but retains
its timeliness. Set in the 50’s, the book tells the story of teens (16 and 17 years old)
caught in the eternal trap--the girl is pregnant, and they “have to” get married. The
consequences of their actions reverberate through their families, which are totally
dissimilar, and totally change their lives and aspirations. Their very human reactions to all
of the problems involved make the novel very real for most readers. Positive. Well worth
reading for most girls and some guys.
Hemphill, Stephanie. Wicked Girls: A Novel of the Salem Witch Trials. H This account of the
Salem witch trials tells the story from the point of view of the girls most involved in
"calling out" the purported witches, with their motivations (fictionalized). The book is
written in verse and well told, based on good research. However, one of the girls does
become sexually active, and the account tells a bit of graphic detail, though somewhat
softened. The author explains her additions to the historical account, as well as traces what
happens to the girls, ultimately, at the end of the "novel." It will be interesting to see if
this prize winner actually appeals to the teen readers who are its target readers. The “novel”
would make a good companion for The Crucible.
Henkes, Kevin. Olive’s Ocean. MJ This novel is deservedly a Newbery Honor Book.
However, though the protagonist is 12 or 13, be warned that there are glancing sexual
references that might make careful parents balk, but do not detract from the value of this
book for most teen girls. The 13 (?) year old protagonist must consider issues of life,
death, relationships in families as she lives this growing up summer at her grandmother’s
home on the New England sea coast. The central image comes from her concern with a
shy peer who died suddenly whose secret ambition was to see the ocean. One of the
central incidents concerns the humiliating experience of being used by an older boy. The
story is skillful, positive and well written.
Hesse, Karen. Out of the Dust. MJH Good historical Depression/Dust Bowl novel in verse.
Easy and fast reading that gives a vivid portrait of living through these traumatic times.
The story concerns a plucky young girl who accidentally throws kerosene on her burning
mother, who dies from the wounds. In the same accident he girl loses her ability to play
piano, one of her few sources of joy and money, when she badly burned her hands. The
story traces her gradual growth of hope and forgiveness, and the restoration of the
relationship with her father. Mature but fine for junior high; good for high school.
Positive.
A Time of Angels. DRP 49 MJH Although this book is aimed at younger readers (the
protagonist is 14), the topic and telling may appeal to older readers, as well. Hannah lives
with her aunt, her aunt’s friend, and her two sisters in Boston’s tenement among other
Jewish families and non Jewish immigrant families during World War I. In fact, her
father is fighting overseas, and her mother was trapped in Russia when the war erupted.
Now Hannah’s world is shattered when the deadly influenza epidemic strikes. A touch of
supernatural with guiding angels and truly memorable characters move this book to
literary quality. The book gives a good picture of immigrant Jewish tenement life and of
the horrifying effects of the flu epidemic.
Witness. Source: Scholastic. MJH Good historical 1920’s novel in verse. Very fast
reading. Subject: race relations and the KKK in a small New England town. Easy and
positive. Good characterization of major and minor characters. Positive.
Hesser, Terry Spencer. Kissing Doorknobs. DRP 49. MJH This novel allows readers to
experience the thought patterns and life of a teenager suffering from obsessive compulsive
disorder. The novel traces the development of the disorder through her childhood through
flashbacks, but focuses on her suffering as an 8th-9th grader, however the narrative is
gripping enough and honest enough to appeal to high school students, as well. Positive.
Heuston, Kimberley. The Shakeress. MJH 2002 Washington Post Top Ten Book. After
twelve year old Naomi loses her parents in a fire, she must live with her penurious, cold,
Calvinistic aunt, along with her older brother and younger siblings. Following a spiritual
prompting, she and her family run away to live with the Shakers, where each makes a
place. Naomi’s place is to apprentice with the village herbalist because she has learned
herbs and midwifery from her mother. However, the Shaker way of life is not ultimately
satisfying for her. She leaves the community to build a life for herself as a
midwife/herbalist. Her next problem: should she marry the very attractive Joseph
Fairbanks, or should she obey the promptings to look for something greater? This very
Mormon novel handles spiritual matters sensitively. The novel gives a good picture of
Shaker life, as well as life on the edge of the frontier in the early 19th Century. Positive.
Good for kids who only want to read Mormon literature, but also recommended for those
who like a good historical novel of any kind
Hidier, Tanuja Desai. Born Confused. H This book, aimed at high school girls, deals with the
confusion of a girl whose parents emigrated from India. She starts out scorning her
parents and trying to find who she is and where her Indian/Hindu background fits into the
modern teen scene. The book is positive and really informative, a good read, BUT
drinking and pot and promiscuous sex of main characters show consequences of lack of
discipline, but the novel presents controlled pot use, restrained drinking, some premarital
sex, and lesbianism as perfectly acceptable. A definite no.
Hite, Sid. A Hole in the World. DRP 53 JH Source: Scholastic.
Maturity story. Narrator changes as he is moved from familiar urban environment to
country and farm life. He learns how one good person can influence many and leave “a
hole in the world” when he dies. Good on dynamic, changing characterization. I want to
know if kids like it. It hints at being a ghost story, but isn’t, so feels a little anticlimactic.
Kids who read it thought the same I did. We kept looking for the ghost, which never
materialized. Positive.
Hobbs, Will. Down the Yukon. New York: Harper Trophy, 2001. JH Sequel to Jason’s Gold.
Jason’s brother makes an enemy of a con man who eventually tricks him into signing over
the boys’ sawmill. Jason and his true love, Jamie Dunavant, see a chance to buy it back
with Jason’s share of the $20,000 prize for winning a race from Dawson City to Nome,
1700 miles away. Lots of adventure will keep reluctant readers on track in this novel laced
liberally with historical detail about the Yukon gold rushes at the end of the 19th/beginning
of the 20th Century. Positive.
Downriver. DRP 50. MJH Told by 16? year old Jessie, this adventure centers around a
group of “Hoods in the Woods,” troubled teens sent on a wilderness program who jettison
their counselor to run the challenging Colorado rapids through the Grand Canyon. Issues
of independence, romance, trust, and choosing good over not-so-good make the book a
positive one with adventure along with relationships.
Jason’s Gold. DRP 53 JH Jason hears about the gold discovered in Alaska and
determines to go there, but when he returns to his home in Seattle, he finds his two older
brothers have left without him. He must make his way, surviving bear attack, dishonest
“friends,” Dead Horse Trail, the infamous Golden Staircase, and a dangerous 500 mile
canoe trip. Befriended by mysterious strangers, a heroic dog and by Jack London himself,
Jason faces those dangers. Positive. This book gives a brutally detailed account of the
Alaska gold rush of 1898.
The Maze. DRP 52 MJH A foster child tries unsuccessfully to deal with his negative
feelings after the grandmother who raises him dies. He is sent to a harsh detention center,
but manages to escape and makes his way to Utah’s Canyonlands National Park and is
sheltered by a reclusive naturalist who is employed to reintroduce condors into the wild.
Good adventure (complete with bad guys and hang gliding) with a dynamically changing
hero. Positive.
Hoffman, Alice. Green Angel. MJH Part of Hoffman’s semi-fantasy color series, this sweet, odd
book centers around 15 year old Green, who when a horrible disaster destroys her family
and her way of life, withdraws and determines never to be hurt again. She does, however,
survive, then slowly begins to share with animals, first, then with a neighbor, then with
others. This story of how a sensitive person copes with tragedy and loss, a story of
resourcefulness and recovery, is positive.
Indigo. DRP 55 MJH Sweet, strange story about a town where everyone dreads water
except for Martha’s two friends (who have webbed fingers and toes). Martha, trying to
escape her own family problems, decides to run away with these two, just at the time that
the rains come. The book is very short, so will appeal to reluctant readers because of that.
Charming with definitely positive themes dealing with family values and family love.
Holt, Kimberly Willis. When Zachary Beaver Came to Town. DRP 48. Aimed at M, but ok for J
H. This novel is aimed at the elementary, junior high audience, with its 13 year old
protagonist. However, the plot and subject matter make it appropriate for more mature
readers. In the summer of 1971, Zachary Beaver, billed as “the fattest boy in the world,” is
parked in a trailer next to the bowling alley in Toby’ small, spare, bleak Texas town. The
protagonist, Toby, slowly learns to appreciate and accept Zachary, along with others who
are “different” from Toby in one way or another, and to come to terms with the qualities in
himself that are less than honorable. Dealing with budding interest in sex, with war and
death, and with betrayal are mature enough issues that this novel is suitable to older
readers. It carries the sweetness of a memoir of a simpler time past. A tiny bit of little boy
crudity and just a hint of sexual interest would move the book to a PG 13 rating, but it is
generally positive, with many issues to talk about.
Hopkins, Cathy. Teen Queens and Has-Beens. MJH? This rather predictable novel is easy to read
and has a positive message about a very common junior high experience—maybe even a
common high school experience. Lia, the tall and beautiful daughter of an aging rock star, has
transferred to a new school and is trying to adjust to new groups of friends. However, she
offends one of the more “popular” girls when her estranged boyfriend goes after Lia (really to
meet her father). The “popular” girl and her friends begin a pointed and vindictive campaign
to ostracize and persecute Lia, who withdraws. The resolution of this conflict and what Lia
learns about people and friendships redeem the book. The book is part of a British series and
is a little liberal about some teen views and speech (PG, maybe), but pretty inoffensive and
ultimately positive.
Horowitz, Anthony. Stormbreaker. MJ (Maybe would be appropriate for H because of high
interest—reading, age level MJ) Alex Rider, 14, is truly alone: his parents were killed
when he was very young, and the uncle who raised him has just been killed in an auto
accident. Then he finds out that his uncle was shot in that auto, and that the upbringing
Alex took for granted-- foreign languages, martial arts, travel—has trained Alex to
become a special agent, a very special agent. First in a series, this novel is every young
boy’s dream: lots of adventure, unbelievably cool gadgets a la 007, an admirable young
hero fighting comic book villains and saving the world.
Point Blank MJH Second in the series, this novel is as fast paced and fun as the first.
The series keeps the promise of the first novel: 007 for young people, with all the fun
gadgets and truly villainous villains trying to take over the world. This novel concerns a
remote boarding school in the Swiss Alps where the recalcitrant sons of the rich and
powerful of the world are being trained to be submissive and respectful—or are they?
Skeleton Key MJH Alex continues to prove himself equal to any villain and able to
continually use his unique training and wonderful gadgets to save the world. This time
Alex must face a purely evil man who wants to make Alex his substitute son.
Horvath, Polly. Everything on a Waffle. DRP 54 M 11 year old Primrose’s parents were lost at
sea during a storm. She insists on believing, against all evidence, that they are alive. She
interacts with guidance counsellors and townspeople who try to get her to face the fact of
their deaths. She is nurtured by a developer uncle and the owner of a restaurant that serves
EVERYTHING on waffles (who teaches her cooking--recipes included in the novel).
Positive, harmless, though many characters are caricatures. Light. Aimed at middle school
or below.
Howe, James (of Bunnicula fame) The Misfits. M Five friends, all 7th graders, organize a “No
Name” Party for the school elections to underline the fact that kids shouldn’t call each
other names or otherwise persecute each other, no matter how different those students may
be from the mainstream. The book is positive and shows growth in the characters,
HOWEVER one of the main points of the book is the one of the five who “comes out” and
admits he is gay and is “in love” with the boy the protagonist’s best friend has her eye on.
Too politically correct for words, presenting homosexuality as natural and perfectly
acceptable.
Hughes, Dean. Soldier Boys. JH World War II novel that traces two young men as they become
soldiers and experience war. Dieter’s devotion to Hitler takes him from his family at the
age of 15 into the German army. Though experienced soldiers try to help him see the war
for what it was, he insists that they are negative, even traitors, that Germany and Hitler
will prove the superior force. Spence drops out of school and becomes a paratrooper as
soon as he is seventeen, against the will of his parents who have an older son already in the
army. The story traces both boys in combat with the challenges and horrors they witness
and the attitudes they take with them into battle. The novel presents a well researched
picture of the Battle of the Bulge through the eyes of desperate German and inexperienced
American soldiers. There are glancing religious references only. Positive, though graphic
in violence.
Hubbard, Mandy. Prada & Prejudice. JH Callie is a self conscious 16 year old who travels to
London hoping to gain coolness through European travel and friendship with the "popular"
girls on the trip with her. Unfortunately, that doesn't seem to be happening, and she feels
isolated and geeky--until she buys a pair of REAL Prada pumps, falls because the heels are
too high, and gets a concussion that lands her smack into 1815 London, and an adventure
reminiscent of Pride and Prejudice. The story does not ring true, relies on coincidence
and plot devices and social practices that accomplish ends they really wouldn't accomplish
in that period and really is aimed at junior high teeny boppers, not my high schoolers. It's
harmless, but not really worth the time.
Ingold, Jeanette. Airfield. MJH Fifteen year old Beatty spends time at the muddy Springs
Airport which her uncle manages, hoping to catch her father, a pilot on the mail run. Little
by little, she makes herself useful there, playing a crucial role in a threatening situation.
Great picture of early flight and life’s hardships for some families at the beginning of the
Depression. Very positive. Good book for girls, with a positive model, some romance
and a little bit of mystery, as Beatty finds out who her mother was, and in finding out,
decides who she will become.
Pictures 1918. MJH Fifteen year old Asia falls in love with a camera, much to the dismay
of her parents. Her grandmother encourages her to follow her dreams. She struggles to
decide what her dreams include in the face of the war, the Flu epidemic, and conflicting
thinking about a woman’s role. Good, positive picture of life during WWI with mystery
and romance thrown in, too.
The Window. DRP 50. JH When a terrible accident kills Mandy=s mother and blinds her
she goes to live with relatives she does not know. As she learns to live with them and deal
with her blindness, she also learns their stories and the 50 year old story of her father’s
parents--by experiencing it when she leans out the window of her attic bedroom. Positive
story and theme.
Jenkins, A.M. Breaking Boxes. H Charlie insulates himself from emotional involvement, in fact,
from any kind of involvement, understandably, since his father deserted the family when
he was very young, his mother drank herself to death, and the brother who supports him is
gay (which the reader doesn’t find out until late in the book). The novel begins when he
warns his brother he will have to fight one of the rich jocks in school because they’ve
pushed him too far. His subsequent involvement with and gradual friendship with one of
them and the consequences to Charlie, his brother, and the jock are what the story is about.
Unfortunately, though the voice is strong and the protagonist appealing, the story is laced
with profanity, vulgarities, and myriads of sexual references. (For instance, the
protagonist has been sexually involved with a girl who likes him, but he cannot connect
with her emotionally and jettisons her.) This novel is an R rated imitation of The Outsiders
with the worthy, politically correct theme of breaking stereotypes and the barriers they
erect, both social, as in The Outsiders, and also those involving homosexuality.
Damage. H Senior football star, Austin Reid, has everything: he’s intelligent, talented,
likable, attractive to girls, and has a good family. So why does he feel like life isn’t worth
living? This novel explores clinical depression leading to suicide and would have been
excellent--except the author HAD to add relatively yucky sexual scenes and vulgar sexual
references. The sexual scenes try to make a point about Reid’s girlfriend, who is
emotionally crippled and sexually twisted because her father committed suicide--and she
found the body. Unnecessarily explicit, these scenes and references ruin an otherwise
noteworthy and positive book.
Jenkins, A.M. Repossessed. Newberry Honor 2007. This book begins with an interesting
premise: a henchman of Satan comes to earth to inhabit the body of a newly dead teenager
and discovers what it’s like to live. It celebrates life and all it of its challenges, goodness,
with all the fun, quirky detail of being a teenage boy. HOWEVER, that all includes rather
graphic sexuality of several different stripes. Though the theme and outcome are
ultimately positive, it also implicitly indicts God for being distant or nonexistent. NOT
RECOMMENDED!
Jones, Carrie. Need. JH Maybe because I had read two pretty lame ya books, this one, in
contrast, seemed REALLY fun to read. It's another Twilight wannabee, but succeeds
where Twilight fails. Well plotted, with a spunky heroine and a good looking were hero,
the novel creates an alternate reality complete with sinister pixies seeking a queen--with
deadly results.
.
Jones, Diana Wynne. The Chronicles of Chrestomanci. MJH (whole trilogy) What fun! This
exploration of different parallel worlds and travel between them involves lots of plucky
young people facing unique, threatening challenges, so the story features mystery, tension,
and lots of fun fantasy
The Homeward Bounders. JH (ALA Best Book 1981) This older novel has been reissued
in paperback. It may be part of a series. Jamie stumbles upon a dangerous secret:
mysterious, robed men hunched over models of the world, moving leaders and armies to
manipulate men in a gigantic game. They catch him and throw him out to the Boundaries
of the worlds. He is doomed to wander through a myriad of worlds searching for “home.”
He meets many assorted people, including Prometheus (he’s not identified by name) in
this fascinating and fast paced fantasy-sci fi tale. Nicely done. Though Jamie is young,
the novel will appeal to all levels of readers, and seems to be on a fairly easy reading level,
though it’s long for reluctant readers. Positive, with a fascinating alternate view of the
Prometheus myth and the hierarchy of the Greek pantheon.
Kass, Pnina Moed. Real Time. H This novel tells a gripping story of modern Israel through the
voices of its characters, including a potential suicide bomber, a victim of the Holocaust, an
expatriate Russian girl, and a young German who has come to work on a kibbutz and
investigate his grandfather, who may have been one of the police involved in the
Holocaust. Positive; good for voice and point of view.
Kantor, Melissa. If I Have a Wicked Stepmother, Where’s My Prince? (2005) MJH Lucy Norton
really does have a wicked stepmother and two evil stepsisters, at least that’s how she sees
it when her father remarries after her mother’s death and moves her from their San
Francisco home to Long Island. Then she finds her high school’s modern Prince
Charming—or is he? Positive.
Kaslik, Ibi. Skinny. H Not recommended. This unpleasant narrative told by two sisters, one of
whom is an anorexic lesbian, treats the psychological aspects of this eating disorder and its
causes in family relationships and identity issues. The Australian “grittiness” of the book
really emphasizes the sordidness of what happens to the sisters. Negative.
Keehn, Sally M. I am Regina. DRP 49. JH Though the protagonist of this story is only 10 when
the story begins, the story covers her nine year captivity/life with the Allegheny Indians
during the French and Indian War. The themes are mature, including a lot of bloody
violence, much brutality, and an attempted rape, (though the description is tasteful and
inoffensive). The protagonist is based on an actual captive who learned to live and
survive as an Indian, then had a hard time adjusting to white society. Very positive. Very
good picture of the Indian way of life and the Indian ways of thinking, conflicts between
early American settlers and Indians (both sides are presented with the good and evils of
each).. This would be good to pair with Saturnalia, or in a historical/thematic unit with
Light in the Forest.
Keith, Harold. Rifles for Watie. DRP 56 JH Most have probably had contact with this older
Newbery winner, but it’s new to me. Although some junior highs teach this novel, it is
excellent for high school. The 16-year-old protagonist, struggling through the conflicts of
“Bleeding Kansas,” enlists in the Union army, stationed in the West. His conflicts, the
battles, the horror of war come vividly through the story. Uniqueness: gathering
intelligence, he is forced into a situation where he must ride with a Confederate raiding
unit he thought were villains. He finds they are loyal, good people, illustrating the theme
dealing with the horror of good people going to war and killing each other. This excellent
book depicts war’s horrors in vivid detail, so it is not for the faint of heart. It is well suited
for high school because of the conflicts involved, and would be appropriate to use in
English or US Studies. Positive.
Kessler, Jackie Morse. Hunger. H I really liked the premise of this novel: a 17 year old is
appointed "Famine," one of the 4 horsemen (horsepersons?) of the Apocalypse, an
appropriate task, since she is severely anorexic/bulimic. The story gallops on from there
with lots of fantasy adventures, evil villains, and eventually, real struggles against her self
starvation. The book treats the anorexic/bulimia realistically with VERY graphic
depictions of her reasoning, her despair, her regurgitating, her exercising and lack of
eating. However, the author toys with sexuality on about the same explicitness level as
Meyer, maybe a bit more. Junior high readers wouldn't "get it," but older teens certainly
will. And there is a lot of profanity that will offend sensitive souls. The book is well
worth reading because of its plot and situation, and it communicates the anti-anorectic-gethelp-before-you-kill-yourself message very vividly. Ultimately positive
Kimmel, Elizabeth Cody. Lily B. on the brink of Cool. MJ I really didn’t like 11or12 year old
Lily, whose fictional journal makes up the novel, for the first half of the book. She is
arrogant and insensitive to her friends and parents, whose middle class, good family
normality she looks upon with contempt. However, the novel turns as this character learns
the true nature of the relatives she thinks are roll models of “cool.” Well written with a
definitely dynamic character with whom young girls will identify.
Kindl, Patrice. Goose Chase. DRP 55 MJH This elaboration of the Goose Girl fairy tale is cute
and well done, with a goodly share of action, a plucky heroine who learns and changes,
and a seemingly dumb prince who also learns and changes. Positive. Light.
King, A.S. The Dust of 100 Dogs. H Not Recommended. Don't read this book. First of all, it's
neither adult enough to be adult, nor good enough to be young adult. I stopped reading
with the explicit rape of the protagonist--when she sits back and allows the rape, having
been sold as a prostitute, more or less. (I skimmed through the rest and read the end to see
if anything redeemed the book later. It didn’t.) The novel should have been a pretty good
read--a girl pirate is doomed to live 100 lives as dogs until she can come back in the
modern world, complete with her memories of past lives, to find the treasure she buried
and the love she died with. However, the sordid, explicit sex and general violent
grubbiness make the book unpleasant, with nothing to redeem it nor make it worth
reading, especially for teens.
King, Stephen. The Girl who Loved Tom Gordon. DRP 56 H Source: Pocket Books. One
Stephen King that’s fairly safe to recommend. Her brother and newly divorced mother are
arguing, so the protagonist trails farther and farther behind on a family hike, then goes off
the trail to go to the bathroom. She then gets lost and stays that way, dangerously so. The
only supernatural is a “lord of the flies” kind of god of the lost that’s waiting to get her,
but is merely a threatening presence through her hardships. Positive ending. A little bit of
crudeness makes it PG. I thought it began rather slowly, but kids seem to like it, maybe
because it’s King? Actually has tones of positive belief in God. Positive.
Kinney, Jeff. Diary of a Wimpy Kid. EMJ My daughter in law, who teaches 8th grade English in
a junior high school, says kids who NEVER read anything are finishing this novel inbetween book: in between novel and graphic novel, the book is the “journal” of a middle
school boy who illustrates his painful entries. The journal is painful because the
protagonist, Greg Heffley, still looks like he belongs in elementary school. The book
charmingly narrates typical, silly-stupid episodes that seem soooo real to those of us who
lived through or teach this age. Positive. Humorous.
Klass, David. You don’t know me. MJ With a strong, captivating voice, this novel tells the story
of John, a typical kind of geeky middle schooler who struggles with algebra, friends, and
getting into trouble. But John has a special problem: his mother’s boyfriend, with whom
they live and who she intends to marry, beats him regularly and sneakily, while pretending
to “love” John. The novel is well told, and middle readers will relate to a lot of what John
is facing with peers, girls with crushes on him, etc, but the novel IS a strong look at violent
abuse, fortunately with a positive ending.
Konigsburg, E.L. The View from Saturday. DRP 53 MJ In the frame of a four-person 6th grade
team competing in regional Academic Bowl, this multiple narrator novel examines
conflicts and problems of four preteens rejected by their class society, but slowly
developing a positive group, and their newly paraplegic teacher. Well written. Aimed at
middle school, though some problems are mature in places.
Koss, Amy Goldman. The Girls. DRP 49 MJH Probably written for junior high, but not
identified as such. Traces the ups and downs of relationships among five girls, alternating
narrators. One is manipulating, the one who leads the girls to reject one of the other girls.
Very realistic look at girl groups. This book would go along well with Odd Girl Out, the
study of aggression among junior high girls. Short and very easy reading. My reluctant
readers, both girls and boys, like this book a lot. They say high school doesn’t change
things much and see the same relationships in their peers as in the book. Positive.
Lackey, Mercedes. Phoenix and Ashes. New York: DAW Books, 2004. JH This book isn’t
strictly history at all. It’s Cinderella meets Harry Potter set in World War I. The
characters make “elemental magic” (magic based on the four Greek/medieval elements:
fire air water and earth) credible. And assigning the progress of the war to a Wizardess’s
pique is interesting, at least. What makes this novel a candidate for inclusion in a history
class is one of the best personal accounts of trench warfare, gassing, and shell shock, all
very historical, indeed. Positive and fun to read.
Langton, Jane. The Time Bike. DRP 54 MJ Fantasy aimed at younger (junior high/middle school)
readers. A magic bicycle allow a boy to visit an infant Thoreau. The story deals with the
impossibility of making real changes in your own history. Cute, positive.
Lasky, Kathryn. Beyond the Burning Time. DRP 53. MJH The Salem Witch Trials provide
setting and focus for this engaging novel. Mary Chase and her apprenticed brother are
puzzled and then ambivalent by the progress of the Salem witch hunts from
experimentation of hysterical girls to chaos caused by vengeful women, greedy men, and
fanatical Puritans. Their feelings turn to terror when their mother becomes one of the
accused. These siblings’ story involves most of the details of the actual occurrence,
including most of the leading characters, the motives and fears and happenings detailed in
most current research. Positive. Engaging for junior high and high school students,
though the age of the protagonists aims it at middle school (Mary is 12).
Leavitt, Martine. Keturah and Lord Death. JH (Winner of all kinds of prizes) I’m anxious to
have a student read this one. It begins like one of the more ordinary Medieval based
fantasy tales, but the writing is much more spare, and the premise is more weird than
normal: Keturah gets lost following a prize deer (hart) into the forest and slowly weakens.
Death comes to her, but using her village-developed talent of storytelling, she escapes him
temporarily by telling him a tale of true love, reserving the ending because the tale is really
hers. Now she has one day to find such a true love--or death will take her to be his bride.
Reminiscent of Scheherezade, but NOTHING like that story, the novel’s action and thesis
are positive and interesting.
Lenhard, Elizabeth. Chicks with Sticks. MJ H, but youngish This novel is one of those cute, fun,
Meg Cabot kinds of young adult chick books—with a couple of serious issues thrown in to
make the book meaningful. Scottie, a 10th grader, feels overlooked by her prominent artist
mother, and now her BFF isn’t: she’s moving away from Scottie into the “popular” group.
Then, by accident, Scottie discovers a local yarn store, a new pastime in knitting, and a
friendship group that helps her deal with the uncertainties that come with adolescence.
Serious issues include dealing with learning disabilities when they clash with parental
expectations, dealing with different kinds of parents, social disadvantages of long term
“home schooling” and, of course, identity vs boyfriends. Positive and really fun to read,
the novel comes with some knitting patterns, and is the beginning novel in an engaging
series.
Lester, Julius. When Dad Killed Mom. H Although the protagonists are young, 12 and 14, the
book is not suitable to younger readers, since it deals graphically with near incest and
shows a daughter subconsciously seducing her father. The novel switches from son to
daughter over and over as it tells the story of siblings struggling to make sense of their
dad’s shooting of their mother, then putting together various incidents recalled, journal
entries, testimony from friends to find out what happened, really, and why. The story is
well told, but it does deal with adult issues and there is much profanity and obscenity in
the daughter’s voice. Ultimately positive, but lots of R rated language and a touch of R
rated sexuality/incest.
Levine, Gail Carson. (Of Ella Enchanted DRP 49 fame). Dave at Night. DRP 45 MJH This
novel based very loosely on Levine’s grandfather’s experience is aimed at upper
elementary/middle school readers, but the novel is engaging enough to be read by junior
and high school lower readers with some success. The story: Dave’s Jewish immigrant
father dies after his mother has been dead for some time. None of his relatives want the
responsibility of raising this “bad boy,” so they take him to a Jewish orphanage not too far
from his New York City neighborhood. The superintendent is the stereotypical crooked
bad guy (shades of Oliver Twist) dishonest with home finances and violent with the boys.
The protagonist succeeds with his “street smarts” in outsmarting the superintendent and
the home’s bullies. He is a dynamic character, learning to love and sacrifice for the other
boys. The positives: a good picture of Jewish immigrant life and culture in the 1920’s and
a glancing picture of the Harlem Renaissance when Dave meets a black upper class
woman who hosts most of the literary and artistic figures of the time in parties Dave
escapes to attend.
The Princess Tales. MJH This book collects three fairy tale adaptations. The three tales
are charmingly cute and gently humorous, with plucky (and selfish and humble and silly)
protagonists trying to find suitable mates. Not exactly intellectually meaty, but with issues
of gender that fit a modern teenage reader. Positive.
The Two Princesses of Bamarre. DRP 47 MJH Source: HarperCollins. Medieval-like
fantasy of two sisters with the theme of meeting and overcoming fears for the sake of a
sister, with a romance and an ineffectual parent thrown in for good measure. Harmless,
but not as significant as it should be. Positive
The Wish. DRP 45 MJ Though not a fantasy setting, this time, it’s still a fantasy. An
eighth grade girl gets her wish--to be popular. She learns about herself and society.
Positive, but too young, probably, for high school audiences, because she identifies the
time right away. Positive.
Leviton, Sonia. Roanoke. DRP 53 MJH 16 year old orphan William Wythers escapes from an
abusive apprenticeship to try to make a life for himself, when he hears about friends who
are going to settle the New World. He finds himself in the ill fated Roanoke Colony. The
story takes the facts known about the colony and weaves a story that includes logical
explanations of what happened to the colony that might or might not be true. Notes at the
end make the distinction between what is factual and what extrapolated. Positive, though
hints at adult sexual/romantic emotions. The booklink says the interest level is middle
school, but themes and romance make it appropriate for upper level readers.
Lewis, C.S. The Great Divorce. H Excellent parable of a man visiting heaven from hell,
examining what keeps people from goodness and God. I like philosophy and religion made
real as this book does. My favorite C.S. Lewis.
A Grief Observed. Nonfiction H This one is so sad--just as he finds love, he loses it. A
good examination of grief, loss, faith and comfort of belief.
The Horse and His Boy. (Chronicles of Narnia 3) Fantasy MJH Ok fantasy with the
struggle between good and evil present, but not as focused as earlier--This novel is not as
gripping as some of the other novels in the series.
The Last Battle. (Chronicles of Narnia 7) MJH The children help the king and his allies
defeat the greatest threats to the good in the kingdom of Narnia in this conclusion to the
excellent fantasy series.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. (Chronicles of Narnia 2) Fantasy MJH Of the
series, this novel is by far the best, with consistent Christian symbolism and themes in this
classic children's series (aimed at probably upper elementary/middle grades, but good for
any fantasy fan to read). The conflict between good and evil, with all the seduction and
machinations of the forces of evil, is portrayed with few illusions, but with ultimately
positive endings.
The Magician’s Nephew. (Chronicles of Narnia 1) Fantasy MJH Initiating the fantasy
Narnia series, this novel is mostly just fantasy adventure, with the struggle between good
and evil, but not as focused as the next novel in the series.
Prince Caspian. (Chronicles of Narnia 4) Fantasy MJH Of the middle volumes of this
series, this one seems most readable with likable characters and good fantasy adventure.
The Silver Chair. (Chronicles of Narnia 6) Fantasy MJH Harmless fantasy with positive
theme that leads up to the end of the series.
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. (Chronicles of Narnia 5) OK fantasy with good vs evil
themes, though not as classic as some of the others in the series.
Lisle, Janet Taylor. The Art of Keeping Cool. DRP 51 MJ Scott O’Dell Award Who is the
enemy? That’s the question this book asks and answers. In the background of “Home
Front” coastal Rhode Island during World War II, a young boy grapples with fears. Fear
permeates the town because of Nazi submarines off shore. Fear haunts the boy and his
cousin with their relationship with Abel Hoffman, a German artist living outside town.
Fear laces the boy’s relationship with his controlling, disapproving grandfather. The book
portrays life during the war as a background to the war with the family. Excellent, though
young.
Lickiss, Rebecca. Never After. MJH This odd twist on Sleeping Beauty combines the story with
Rumplestiltskin and Cinderella, with The Princess and the Pea thrown in for good
measure. Fun, positive and harmless. Fairy tales with a dollop of practical good sense.
Littke, Lael. Haunted Sister. JH Janine was born a twin, but accidental drowning took her more
mischievous twin, Lenore, when they were toddlers. When Janine barely survives a
serious auto accident, Lenore insists on sharing her existence--or does she? High interest,
positive, though a little confused in places and fairly juvenile writing.
lockhart, e. the boy book. The boyfriend list. JH The strong voice and “realistic” teen dialogue
in this set of novels didn’t make them any more acceptable. I just don’t like them. They
seem to me to be the writing of someone out to sell to kids, and sell they do, assuming
casual attitudes toward teen sexuality that are too prevalent today, focusing on not-veryadmirable, self absorbed characters. The author stoops to recreating the crude dialogue of
some teens and what she thinks should be happening (again, crude) to these same kids so
that she can be considered “realistic” and edgy. Not recommended.
Fly on the wall. JH The premise of this novel is promising: what happens when a girl
(who happens to be studying “Metamorphosis”) becomes a housefly and flies into the
boys’ gym locker room? She learns that confident boys aren’t so confident, that boys
come in all varieties, that some are deeper, and some more shallow, than she ever thought.
The crudeness and stereotypical thinking of her other novels continue in this lockhart
creation. The overall theme, a girl growing less self absorbed, more accepting, and more
able to relate to guys, is a good one; however, the novel has too much that is edgy and is
just plain not very well written. Not recommended.
Lockwood, Cara. Wuthering High. Bard Academy #1. JH, but not really recommended. This
series should be good, based on a really wild premise that includes lots of author-ofclassics lore (Emily Bronte is the main villain, while VirginiaWoolf and Ernest
Hemingway figure widely). However, the unbelievable fantasy is tempered by the kinds of
concerns and conversations that uninformed authors think teens actually have. The
characterization is stereotypical, and the plots go too far. Avoid the clever titles; the novels
just aren't. PG13 rated, with talk about and skirting around sexuality, but nothing explicit.
The Scarlet Letterman. #2. More of the same. The mystery involved is, as my students
would say, lame. I truly wish the writer had taken more time to plot these better and really
make the characterization of the various authors more true and the teens more plausible.
Loewen, James W. Lies My Teacher Told Me: Everything Your American History Textbook Got
Wrong. H This delightful examination of the sweep of American history exposes some of
the myths and mistakes we accept, revealing the truth about many famous episodes in US
history. The book makes history real and relevant. It is primarily aimed at adults. Some
of the material is PG 13 mature.
Lowry, Lois. Gathering Blue. DRP 53 MJH A companion book to The Giver, this time in a
different city with a different setup (no technology), but the same entrenched
totalitarianism. The girl who is the protagonist has the artists’ gift of painting in
embroidery. Positive.
The Giver. MJH This book has so much potential, with an intriguing world, appealing
characters and good situation. Unfortunately, the rushed and unsatisfying ending, and the
scenes of almost sensuality (dreams) mar the novel.
The Messenger. MJH Part of the same series as The Giver, this novel is SO disappointing
because the ending is so badly done (worse, even, than The Giver). Intriguing plot lines
and possibilities (including two potential romances) are dropped abruptly at the tragic and
unforeshadowed ending. Sadly, the novel wastes a very good alternate world, as with the
earlier novel, with appealing characters and gripping situations.
A Summer to Die DRP 54 M Thirteen year old Meg isn’t thrilled when her parents move
the family to a small country home so that dad can be isolated enough to write his long
awaited book. She has to share her room with her sister, Molly. Meg resents Molly’s
beauty and easy popularity. Then Molly changes. Meg is forced to confront her feelings
about her sister and about herself because of her sister’s serious illness and ultimate death.
Positive, and well done, though sensitive. Though the subject is a more mature one, the
girl’s denial and delay at figuring out what is happening, and her parents’ hiding the
problem from her will make older readers impatient.
Lynch, Chris. Freewill. (Printz Award for YA Lit) DRP 46 H Short, very odd narrative, mostly
in 2nd person, about a young man in a school for troubled teens whose parents’ deaths
(maybe suicide?) and subsequent suicides of teens in his school are tied mysteriously to
figures he carves in woodshop. Positive, but lots of R rated language makes this a
troublesome book to recommend.
Marr, Melissa. Wicked Lovely. H This story proves gripping and involving from the very
beginning, although many classify it as “dark” because the faerie in it has LOTS of VERY
BAD characters trying to destroy the good in both faerie and in the world of reality. The
story concerns Aislinn, who has always been able to see faeries who walk and effect her
world. Now she has a dilemma: will she admit she might have a powerful and attractive
role to play in their world? And will she give up her world, and her true love, to play that
role? Positive ethical choices from several protagonists facing fantasy dilemmas that
present real issues make the novel essentially positive. However, the sexual tension in the
novel makes it mature (though not offensive—no explicit sex, though the novel implies an
almost rape and the protagonist’s eventual monogamous sex). One of the protagonist’s
concerns is the when and if of her first sexual experience. Ironically, espousing modern
sexual attitudes, this novel really presents the old double standard: the girl preserves her
virginity for meaningful monogamous sex, while it’s ok for the two male protagonists to
have had multiple “one night stands.” I would recommend this book for older teenage
girls WITH THEIR MOTHERS for a natural way to discuss adult sexual issues, as well as
issues of power, violence, etc.
Mason, A.E.W. The Four Feathers. H Old fashioned British novel first published in 1902 lately
made into a movie. The basic plot is a good one. A young man trained to be a soldier
dishonorably escapes going to fight in the war in Africa. His fellow soldiers and best
friends learn of his maneuver and send him three feathers (3 friends) to symbolize his
cowardice. His fiancee, learning of what he did, gives him the fourth. He spends years
redeeming each feather by doing a heroic deed for the person who gave him each. After
much tribulation, the fiancee finds out about his redemption, but she is now affianced to
one of the friends, who has been blinded in the war. Good plot, but VERY slow, with a lot
of the real action happening offstage. Positive, and worth reading if the student is willing
to go at the normal 19th century British pace.
Mass, Wendy. A Mango-Shaped Space. MJ Schneider Family Book Award winner. Mia has a
secret she keeps from everyone, a secret that determines her life: sounds, numbers, and
letters have color and shape for her. Because of a grade school encounter, she thinks
everyone will see her as a freak if she reveals that secret. The secret keeps her from
meaningful relationships with others—including her family and closest friends, until….
The book is a positive novel of synaesthesia that shows a protagonist coming to terms with
her different-ness and learning to accept and turn outward toward others.
Massie, Elizabeth. The Great Chicago Fire, 1871. H This historical novel aimed at girls should
have been good. It isn’t on two counts: verisimilitude and inappropriateness of behavior.
It does tell the story of the Chicago fire from the point of view of an impoverished
Southern girl orphaned and dispossessed by renegade Union troops during Sherman’s
march through Georgia. She has migrated to Chicago in search of relatives there and
continues her disguise to secure employment as a boy. She works with an idealistic young
man to establish a shelter for the exploited homeless poor, and predictably, falls in love
with him. The unbelievable and inappropriate part comes when this well born girl reveals
herself as a girl and seduces and makes love to the young man on a pier between two
mansions on the lake (maybe she would do that today, but in 1871???). Then the two are
caught in the fire, and a building falls on the young man when he goes in to rescue two
children. The girl believes him dead and escapes the fire. He miraculously comes out
with only a burned hand and searches until he finds her--all too miraculously. The story is
based on so much coincidence that it becomes silly. The love story is predictable and
reads like most formula love stories written for adults, with the obligatory hinted at
premarital sex. Not recommended.
Mazer, Harry. A Boy at War. New York: Scholastic, 2001. JH High school student, Adam,
moves to Hawaii to be with his father, a naval officer on the Arizona, based at Pearl
Harbor--in December 1941. Adam and his friends are out on the harbor fishing that fateful
morning. Vivid descriptions of Pearl Harbor from the point of view of participants, and
relationships and racial issues between Japanese American Hawaiians, native Hawaiians,
and haoles like Adam lift the book from the norm. The descriptions of the battle are
explicitly gory, but the book is engaging and well told.
The Last Mission. New York: Dell Laurel Leaf, 1979. DRP 50. H If the book were a
movie it would rate an R or PG 13 rated because of war/violence and also because of
language--much use of the F word, fitting to the picture of the combat fliers and their way
of life; smoking is casually taken for granted, as it was at the time. Jack Raab, a New
York Jewish boy irate because of what he hears about Hitler and his war, lies about his 15
year old age and uses his older brother’s birth certificate to join the Air Force. From their
base in England, he and his fellow bomber crew fly dangerous missions over enemy
territory, even into Berlin. Just as the war in Europe is winding down, their plane is shot
down far behind enemy lines, and Jack is taken prisoner. His shock and grief result in
disillusionment at the war and at war in general. The portrayal of Jack’s experiences are
vivid and probably fairly realistic. The book is engaging, but rather rough, with
descriptions of what happens to Jack’s fellow fliers that require a strong stomach to read.
Mazer, Norma Fox. Girlhearts. DRP 47 MJH 13 year old Sarabeth never knew her father, who
died in a freak accident when she was a baby. Her mother, her
friend/support/disciplinarian, doesn’t come home one night. She dies of a heart attack,
leaving Sarabeth an orphan. The book deals with her problems facing the death, the
aloneness, then coping with finding a new place to live and connecting with long lost
relatives who rejected her mother when she married her father because he was Jewish.
Only drawback: she ends up with her mothers ex boyfriend who is living with another
girlfriend. They do get married to be able to take her in at the end. Aimed at Junior High
School, but good for struggling high school readers. Positive.
When She Was Good. DRP 48 H This story is told little by little from the point of view of
the protagonist, a victim of terrible abuse: mother a victim of the abusive, drinking father,
abusive sister who takes over from the father, death of the mother, leaving the narrator
defenseless to the abusive sister. Fairly positive, since the girl learns to live independently
and heal in small steps from the horrible existence she’s had up until her sister’s death.
Bad language and really vile physical and emotional abuse told explicitly make this a dark
book to give to adolescents.
McCaughrean, Geralding. The Kite Rider. Carnegie Medal winner, 2001. MJH Set shortly after
the Mongol conquest of China, in the time of Kubla Khan, this story offers a stirring
adventure that gives a unique picture of 13th Century China. Haoyou loses his father when
he is forced by a covetous fellow sailor to “ride” a kite used by merchants to determine if
the time is propitious for ships to begin a sea voyage. Ironically, Haoyou ends up riding
the kites himself--to perform for a circus. Revenge, sacrifice, family, and betrayal form
the theme topics of this appealing novel. Though the protagonist is only 12 at the start of
the novel, the adventure and the hinted at mature happenings and themes will carry even
adult readers into the precarious world of the Chinese in turmoil. Positive.
McCaughrean, Geraldine. The White Darkness. Michael L. Prinze Award 2005. MJH This
adventure novel stretches credulity—a lot, though probably no more than the Horowitz spy
novels, so though the adventure is gripping, the novel is probably not going to make a hit
with high school readers. Sym’s uncle Victor is obsessed with Antarctica, and Sym has
her own interest in the continent—Titus Oates, a young member of the doomed Scott
expedition. Victor takes Sym on an expedition to the continent—hiding their destination
from her mother. The tourist expedition becomes something much more sinister when
Victor steals a vehicle full of supplies and journeys with Sym and two others alone on an
ill advised quest for something much more eccentric. Positive, though far fetched. Kids
will learn A LOT about Oates and the Scott expedition, as well as about Antarctica itself.
McCormick, Patricia. Cut. DRP 48 JH Source: Scholastic. Narrator who cuts herself to escape
psychological pain of a troubled family. Most of the action concerns her progress in a
treatment center along with anorexics, drug-troubled girls, etc. Very good on dynamic,
changing character. Good, fairly realistic treatment of mental maladies and treatment.
Positive.
McDonald, Joyce. Shades of Simon Gray. H The play on words in the title refer to the
protagonist’s name, his “shade” that travels and interacts with another shade (spirit of a
young man hanged unfairly in the late 1790’s) while the 17 year old protagonist is in a
coma, and also the “shades of gray” of his character, as he does things he knows to be
unethical and downright wrong because he is infatuated, though he is a sensible, honest,
caring person. Good story that moves well and explores tough moral choices and
repentance (though the novel doesn’t call it that). Positive.
McKinley, Robin. Deerskin. Not Recommended. This novel, with its fairy tale setting, is well
told, but the central incident involves relatively explicit and definitely violent incest-rape.
The rest of the novel involves the physical and emotional recovery of the protagonist and
her ultimate fight to bring her father to justice. Ultimately positive, but definitely R rated.
Dragonhaven. JH What an interesting premise: scientists have discovered that dragons
(flying, fire-breathing dinosaurs), along with a lot of other different kinds of lizards, really
still exist, and that they’re marsupials. However, owing to a craze for dragon blood
remedies, they are almost extinct, except in well guarded preserves, one of which is in the
Rocky Mountains of the US. The preserve is the setting of this sci-fi (though it sounds
like fantasy) adventure. Though it is illegal to raise a dragon, fifteen year old Jack finds a
dying dragon and her new babies, only one of which is still alive. His further adventures
form the plot of this novel. The novel is well told, engaging, and positive, BUT be
warned, McKinley has to further the “politically correct” agenda and at the end of the
novel has one main character decide quite happily he is gay. She also hints at premarital
sex between the protagonist and his girlfriend. Though the sex is not explicit, in either
case, the attitude of acceptance towards both is meant to influence the acceptance of
readers.
Spindle’s End. DRP 60. JH A retelling of Sleeping Beauty from the point of view of the
fairy that raises Beauty. It’s a typical McKinley tale with lots of adventure, a serious
protagonist that grapples with real problems, and an unorthodox ending. Engaging and
positive. A little mature for middle schoolers. Positive.
Meyer, Carolyn. Beware, Princess Elizabeth. DRP 56 JH Good historical fiction handling of the
earlier life of Queen Elizabeth I with the many threats from her half sister Queen Mary, the
hints at scandal with various suitors, and her determination never to marry. High interest
writing, mostly factual, though taking as truth some of the rumors that may NOT have
been true about men “in love” with the young Elizabeth. Aimed at middle school/junior
high readers, but the maturity and frankness in handling of her developing sexual
awareness and sexual issues with the queen’s marriage and pregnancy makes it more
suitable for high school.
Loving Will Shakespeare. H This time Meyer turns her imagination to Ann Hathaway, the
wife of William Shakespeare, and imagination it is, since so little of Shakespeare and Ann
is known as fact. As with her other historical fiction, Meyer has Ann tell her own story.
The love story is a strange one, at any rate, and Meyer has to deal with the 8 years
difference in their ages, their "shotgun" wedding, with the premarital sex it involved
(treated briefly and tastefully), and the fact that after not too many years, Shakespeare
parted with his wife, not to live with her until most of his productive years were over. It's a
hard tale to make attractive. Meyer does a creditable job, but the characters and
personalities of the historical figures and most of the action is imagined, not factual, and
students reading the story need to know that.
Mary, Bloody Mary. H I like this delightful series and have read most by this author. The
books aren't really strictly historical, because they tell the royal's story in her own voice,
but they are based on extensive research, with the people and actions and events based on
up to date factual material. This one tells the story of Mary I, and gives vivid pictures of
Mary and her court. These novels are aimed at middle school readers, but do not avoid the
the serious sexual issues that so much impacted these queens and princesses. Younger
readers need parental involvement as they read these.
Mikaelsen, Ben. Red Midnight. Aimed at junior high, but good for reluctant senior high readers.
Set in war-torn 1981 Guatemala, this novel traces the journey of twelve year old Santiago
as he and his four year old sister escape marauding guerrilla soldiers who destroy their
village and their family. Soldiers, sharks, hunger, disease and raging heat and storms
provide heart rending adventure. This novel isn’t as easy to take as Spirit Bear, but is
ultimately positive and gives students a good look at what it is like to live in an
environment of fear and insecurity and why so many might look upon the US as their only
hope.
Touching Spirit Bear. DRP 51 JH 15 year old Cole Matthews is not a nice boy. He
lashes out at everyone and trusts only those who fear him. He fights and steals and hurts
and snarls his way through life, deliberately deceiving those who try to help him to gain
advantage for himself. When he brutally smashes a boy’s skull into the sidewalk, causing
permanent brain damage, he faces Naive American Circle justice, who decrees his
banishment to live alone on an Alaskan island. Only when he almost dies after being
mauled by a mysterious white bear does he begin to face himself and learn to deal with his
rage and make restitution for the harm he has caused. Because of the strong central
character and the adventures he has, the book will appeal to ages from junior high on up.
Although the ending is almost too pat, the book is positive, showing hard, realistic,
positive change. However, the story requires a sequel. Cole has not yet tested his changed
self on his real life with his family and friends at home in the city.
Moore, John. Heroics for Beginners. Not recommended. This novel would be prime reading
for our fantasy/romance updated fairytale readers. The plot is cute, following the
adventures of a canny prince competing with better looking, more courageous princes for
the hand of the fair princess. However, the author felt he just had to stick in many crude
sexual references, not obscene, just crude. They’re mostly snide kinds of remarks, not full
blown sex scenes, but they don’t fit with the matter of fact tone of the rest of the novel and
the clever, cute parodying of the fantasy/fairy tale genre.
Moriarty, Jaclyn. Feeling Sorry for Celia. DRP 54. JH Mature. This epistolary novel tells
fifteen year old Elizabeth Clarry’s story of growing up. He best friend Celia keeps
disappearing, her father, who has another family in Canada, has reappeared in her home,
Sidney, and she is being forced to write to a girl in another “regular” school (she goes to a
private school). Mostly positive, but her new “best friend” struggles with “going all the
way” with her boyfriend: the novel demonstrates total acceptance of premarital teenage
sex, with the only caveat--her friend isn’t really ready for that kind of relationship, so
there’s awkwardness between the two afterward.
Mull, Brandon. Fablehaven. EMJ This fantasy novel, beginning a series, is well enough written
that it’s fun for all readers, though it’s really aimed at upper elementary/junior high
readers. Kendra and her brother, Seth, are sent to a reluctant grandfather while her parents
go on a cruise with her extended family. What the children find out as Seth insists on
repeatedly defying their grandfather’s warnings, is that Grandpa is caretaker of a sanctuary
for mystical creatures of all magical descriptions, some of which are anything but benign.
Threat and adventure would make this novel a bit frightening for younger children, but it’s
fun and positive reading for 4-5th grade up. Positive.
Murdock, Catherine Gilbert. Dairy Queen. H Mature. Superb novel, HOWEVER….there’s that
one objectionable part—the protagonist’s best friend turns out to be in love with the
protagonist (lesbian), which isn’t revealed until 2/3 through the novel. The protagonist is
horrified—because she is heterosexual. That said, the novel is good because it’s well
written and unique. DJ Schwenk has to give up her beloved sports, basketball and track,
to run the family dairy farm when her father’s health threatens the family’s home and
livelihood. Then a family friend, coach of a rival town’s football team, sends his
quarterback over to “help out” for a day, to teach the out of shape rich kid—and DJ—a life
changing lesson.
The Off Season. H Mature. This sequel to Dairy Queen presents more challenges for the
female protagonist. Her best friend has to leave town because of a lesbian lover. Her
football star brother faces physical challenges that ruin his sports life. She is injured and
must choose between football and a possible college basketball scholarship. She comes to
the realization that her parents' farm doesn't make enough money to support their family.
And her boyfriend doesn't exactly come through as the hero she hopes he is. A note to
conservative readers: the protagonist's friend's lesbianism is presented sensitively and in a
matter of fact way as something entirely normal, though not accepted by the girl's family
and by the community.
Myers, Walter Dean. Bad Boy. DRP 55. MJH This autobiography reads like a novel, but a
thoughtful one. Raised by friends of his mother, Walter struggles between two identities:
the street wise, athletic “bad boy” with a speech defect who fights the kids making fun of
him and absorbs street values, and the thoughtful reader of classics who yearns to write
poetry and stories that will move others. His academic/creative identity moves him farther
from his parents and friends even as he realizes that his skin and poverty color will keep
him from the college education he wants and deserves. The story shows his struggle to
decide who he will be and the progress that finally ends with his success as an author.
Very positive and thoughtful.
The Beast. H Myers does such a good job of capturing the clash of values between ghetto
dwellers and those who live in the middle/upper class world of education-career-success.
Seventeen year old Anthony Witherspoon straddles those worlds. A child of the ghetto,
his warm family has taught him to want something more. He pursues his dreams by
attending a mostly white prep school in New England, where he struggles to work and
keep up on his studies. It is when he returns home to the ghetto that he realizes the
distance between his two worlds: his best friends have dropped out of school and the
girlfriend he loves has become a wasted drug addict in the face of overwhelming
challenges of her home life. Although many probably think “the beast” of the title is drug
addiction, readers will recognize that it is more than just drug addiction: it is the core
values, or lack of them, that push ghetto youth to a life of drifting, hopelessness and crime.
Caution: some language and an assumption that teen sexual relations are desireable, with
some frankness about the boy’s arousal around his girlfriend and girl friend (PG 13). The
book is positive, despite the almost overwhelming odds against these kids.
Crystal. JH 16-year-old Crystal has already begun on a modeling career that thrills her
and excites her mother, though her father is more hesitant about her success. However,
little by little, she is forced to choose between modeling and her friends, her schooling, her
standards. She begins to question whether what she is gaining is worth what she is losing.
Positive. The novel includes some mature situations where she is challenged to model in
the nude and trade sexual favors for success, but her choices end up to be good ones and
the situations are subtly and sensitively handled. (Some parents might object, however.)
Fallen Angels. DRP 47 H This novel presents a young soldier’s experiences from basic
training to his return from Viet Nam because he has been badly wounded. It presents
every horrible experience you’ve ever heard of happening to kid soldiers in Viet Nam
short of capture and torture and prison, and I think that’s probably the biggest problem in
the novel. I haven’t checked with anyone who actually fought on the ground, but I think
he’s telescoped a bit too much--the portrait is too extreme for ALL of that to have
happened to one kid. It does give a VERY realistic picture of the worst of that war--and
the worst is pretty bad. The language and some sex talk make the novel one you would
only give to your most mature students. It is “politically correct”--America’s pretty much
the bad guy here, though Viet Cong excesses and nastiness is portrayed frankly, too.
Characterization is very good: well rounded, realistic, with good and bad officers and
soldiers, but mostly mixed good and bad. The black experience in the Viet Nam war is a
good one for our kids to read, since it gives a perspective they rarely get. The book is
well worth reading despite language and vulgarisms, but only for the mature: the action
and violence is explicit and gory. You may want to read it yourself before you give it out.
This book is especially good for US Studies classes studying America at war.
The Glory Field. DRP 51. JH This excellent novel traces a black family from the first
ancestor brought to America from Africa to a young descendant searching for who he is
and where he belongs in 1994’s world and finding part of his answer in his family. These
two characters form the ends of the novel, a series of intersecting stories of the rest of the
family surviving as slaves at the time of the Civil War, struggling against the KKK at the
turn of the century, reacting against tradition in the 1930’s, participating in the struggle for
Civil Rights in the 1960’s. The novel gives a good picture of what it means to be black,
but at the same time portrays positive ways in which family supports and survives
struggling African Americans. Positive and sensitively told. Good for both US Studies
and as multicultural literature in English. Though the stories are accessible and engaging,
the novel is a little long for reluctant readers--375 pages.
Hoops. DRP 49 H This novel combines minority inner city African American culture
with basketball to make a superior YA novel. The protagonist starts out selfish, hostile,
closed to others and arrogant. An ex NBA player, one who made a mistake which brought
drastic consequences, organizes a basketball team with the protagonist and his friends.
The protagonist and other members on the team struggle with issues of racism, identity
within black culture, stealing, gambling, cheating, dealing with racketeers, violence, sex,
etc. Through the struggles and the relationship with the coach, this young man matures
and opens himself up to others--friends, girlfriend--and begins to take responsibility for his
actions. The challenge of this novel comes with the black culture--mild language, casual
attitude towards stealing, casual attitude toward extramarital sex, and other cultural
attitudes which definitely violate (Nebo) community standards. The novel is well written,
with basketball action sequences and adventure that will engage the most unwilling reader.
The voice is very strong (the protagonist tells the story), and very unlikable at first.
Myers’ skill is that the novel allows the reader to see through this narrator and recognize
that the reasons for his arrogance and emotional inaccessibility, even before he grows,
matures and changes, make him sympathetic.
Monster. JH Told in screenplay form, so no DRP Provocative story told by an aspiring
young black cinematographer, in jail awaiting trial on the charge of accessory to murder.
Participants and gang member acquaintances accuse him of going into a pharmacy to
check to see that it was clear for the gang friends to go to rob. In the course of the robbery,
the kids kill the owner. The book is the boy’s “script” for what happens before and during
the trial. Readers never find out if the boy actually participated, though he declares to his
family, lawyer, and the court that he had nothing to do with the robbery/murder. Good,
realistically bleak, conflicts of race, living in a ghetto area, gangs, etc presented well.
Positive. Some language.
The Outside Shot. DRP 49 H In this sequel to Hoops, the protagonist goes to a
prestigious Indiana college on basketball scholarship. His growth continues as he
confronts conflicts with teammates, a challenging academic schedule he cannot handle,
real effort to make the team and get along with the coach enough to play, and a moral
conflict when an outside business owner tries to get him involved in the businessman’s
group betting on point spreads in the games. The only questionable parts in the novel
come with the protagonist’s girlfriend, who teaches him about independent women,
scorning his assumptions that she is his for the taking. The novel skillfully skirts
questions of physical relationships with or without love and respect. The novel is positive,
with positive choices and consequences and hope for the protagonist at the end.
Scorpions. DRP 45 JH It is easy to see why this novel, from all of Myers’ novels, won
Newbery Honor status. Although it deals with the same kinds of conflicts and challenges
treated in many of his other novels, it is more sophisticated and less hopeful, leaving an
open ended ending that hints of problems still to come in the life of the young Harlem
African American protagonist. The 12 year old protagonist could be drawn from typical
gang member profiles: weak in academic skills, he is picked on at school by a stronger,
older buddy. His older brother was head of the Scorpions gang, making money as couriers
for a drug ring until an armed robbery resulted in his going to prison. His father,
irresponsible and abusive, only shows up at home occasionally, and his mother must work
long hours to support the boy and his sister. His brother’s buddies try to draw the
protagonist into the gang, giving him a gun, which gets him into major trouble. He
manages to get out of trouble by the end of the book, but loses his best friend in the
process. The novel portrays the gang/drug life realistically and would serve as a good
source of meaningful writing and discussion about gangs, drugs, responsibility, poverty.
Slam. DRP 48 JH Much less PG13 than Hoops The 17-year-old protagonist of this
novel is aware he’s good at basketball, but is going to go to an arts magnet school because
of his art skills. The problem: he’s not doing so well at his academic studies. Then
there’s the basketball team, who haven’t won too many games. Then there=s the coach,
who is alienated by his overly confident attitude. Add to the mix his best friend from the
‘hood, a superb basketball player who’s making money without having any visible job, and
a girlfriend who is particularly sensitive. The novel moves fast, includes lots of good
basketball action, and considers issues of friendship and values that are handled well.
Incidents when the protagonist necks casually with a girl his friend introduces and his
thoughtful consideration of when he’ll be ready to have sex with his girlfriend shows
Myers’ casual attitude towards premarital sex and may make this novel more mature than
some readers can handle. The language is acceptable, which is amazing considering the
language the protagonist and his friends would be using in real life. Positive values.
Conflicts of drugs, ghetto living, family conflicts and African American pride presented
well.
145th Street. DRP 50. H Short Stories. This book includes short stories that span the
Harlem African American experience. Some show the despair and bleakness, but most
celebrate people sacrificing and defending each other. Example: “Monkeyman” actually
comes from Myers’ own experiences reading books up a tree and defending a weaker
person from a gang attack and becoming the target of that gang: the protagonist is beaten
by the gang, but decides NOT to resist, and to make gang members beat him in front of his
grandfather and others of the community. He is beaten, but refuses to hide and run, and is
never defeated. In “A Christmas Story” a policeman who has escaped the ghetto is forced
into spending Christmas with Mother Fletcher, an aged icon in Harlem. There is an
exuberance of spirit despite the poverty, drugs and violence of the Harlem setting that
permeates such stories as “Big Joe’s Funeral” (after attending a friend’s funeral, Big Joe
decides he should have a funeral while he can still enjoy it, so he throws his own funeral!)
I wouldn’t just give these stories to a student to read unless he/she had an interest in
multicultural/African American experience, but I would definitely recommend them to use
single stories in the classroom. In general they are heartwarming, somewhat sentimental
and definitely positive, on the whole, despite the background of drugs and violence.
Napoli, Donna Jo. Beast. H This is not the normal light retold fairy tale. This story retells
“Beauty and the Beast” through the beast’s eyes--and he is a Persian prince turned into a
lion for violating a religious tabu. The book explores what it is to be a beast, with blood
lust and sexual drives in graphic detail. The sexual part is handled tastefully, but it is
present, and would rate a definite PG13. The reviews call it ”erotic” and “sensual.” I
would not go that far, but it could be decidedly disturbing to youngsters.
Crazy Jack. JH Jack is crazy, all right, but only occasionally, usually around the
anniversary of the day his gambling father climbed a mountainous cliff and disappeared
into the clouds above. Then Jack trades the family’s only asset, a cow, for some colored
beans. Sound familiar? It should. It’s Jack and the Beanstalk, told with characters who
seem very real. The tiny bit of sexual content in the novel is merely hinted. Positive,
though slightly dark.
Daughter of Venice. JH This novel set in 1592 Venice traces the story of
younger daughter in a noble family who longs to break the bounds set so firmly around her
actions by her noble birth and the attitudes toward women of her society and class. She
dresses as a boy to wander the streets and canals of Venice having adventures, but those
adventures bring challenges she has no way of foreseeing, challenges to her preconceived
ideas, her prejudices, and her way of life. This well researched novel presents a vivid
picture of life in Renaissance Venice, and treats the history of Venice so skillfully,
students will not even know they are learning. The novel adeptly dramatizes the prejudice
against Jews, attitudes towards women, as well as daily life and attitudes and government
of Venice. Positive.
Three Days. EM Ten year old Jackie‘s trip to Italy with her father seems more than fun,
until the worst happens: her father collapses and dies at the wheel of their rental car in the
middle of the Italian countryside. Finally two Italian men stop and pick her up, but they
seem in no hurry to return her to Rome where she can locate people to help her. Unable to
communicate with these men who only speak Italian, Jackie finds herself trapped in their
home. Her ordeal is told well in first person. The main focus of the novel resolves itself,
but the motivations and the consequences of the action of the novel are left open, allowing
for some interesting discussion. Easy reading aimed at upper elementary readers.
Positive.
Zel. DRP 48. H Though listed for middle and junior high readers, I wouldn’t recommend
it to immature girls, and it definitely is a girl book. The story is the retold fairy tale of
Rapunzel. The tale is told from alternating points of view of Rapunzel, the prince, and the
witch who raised Rapunzel. The mature part is Napoli’s usual sensuality in the retelling,
with lightly veiled sexual references relating to the relationship between Zel and the
prince. The parts from the point of view of the witch are disturbingly satanic (she trades
her soul for supernatural powers to get Rapunzel), paranoid, definitely witch-like with
traces of obsession. Not pleasant, though the ending is “happy.” Yuck. There are so
many other books of this genre that are more appropriate for light reading for teens, and
the issues in this novel aren’t worth discussing. The book may be ok for literature circles
if kids want to talk about spoiled brat princes obsessed with a girl met once, trading one’s
soul for “love” and paranoid witches bent on keeping a “daughter” isolated and dependent.
Napoli, Donna Jo and Richard Tchen. Spinners. DRP 61. H An extension of the
Rumplestiltskin tale, this book should be a good companion to Beauty, etc. However, it
involves premarital sex, presenting it as positive, though descriptions are not explicit, and
the ending sticks too close to the original tale after making the little man a sympathetic
character, one of the protagonists. This novel seems to reward less than sterling character
and punish the good guy. OK, but I wouldn’t recommend it.
Naylor, Phyllis Reynolds. Blizzard’s Wake. JH Kate, nearing 16, is consumed with hatred for
Zeke Dexter, the young drunk driver who killed her mother. He is released from prison
and makes his way back to their home town in time to be caught in the (actual) midwestern
blizzard of March 1941. In the background of prewar deprivations and threats and the
historical storm, Kate must work out her hatred through salvation in duty, compassion and
forgiveness. The action is a little far fetched, relying too much on coincidence, but
features a really good theme with engaging plot and characterization.
Jade Green. DRP 53 JH Historical horror story with the stereotypical Gothic plot: girl
goes as hired help to haunted house of relative, complete with a kindly old uncle and his
villainous, greedy, lustful son. The house is being haunted by the ghost of the LAST hired
girl, mysteriously and wierdly killed. The horror story is complete with a disembodied
hand that chokes the bad guy in the end. It’s actually better written than it sounds, an
enjoyable read, positive in values. It’s probably too mature for middle school--the crime
includes rape.
Sang spell. DRP 50 JH As Josh hitchhikes away from the cancelled life his mother’s
death left him to a new life with his aunt, he is beaten and robbed in the mountains. He is
rescued and transported to a strange, isolated, pre-industrial community, Canara, that
revolves around truffle digging. He soon realizes returning to the real world is harder than
he ever imagined because every trail he follows leads back to Canara. Positive, based on a
strange historical group of people.
Nelson, Marilyn. Carver: a life in poems. Source: Scholastic.
Really good, challenging poetry biography of George Washington Carver.
PG content: one reference to a contemporary lynching of a black man with penis stuck in
his mouth. Positive.
Noel, Alyson. Art geeks and prom queens. H Rio, named for her mom’s favorite Duran
Duran hit, has moved from New York to a fancy private school in Southern California.
Almost immediately she has to choose between the “jet set” popular kids and the “art
geeks” she meets in AP art class. Though the novel is positive, it includes short references
assuming casual acceptance of recreational marijuana use, drinking (with negative
consequences), and a relatively graphic near rape.
Nolan, Han. Born Blue. This story of the child of a heroin addict includes it all--orphanage,
revolving foster homes, physical abuse, stealing, teen sex, drug abuse, running away,
homelessness, teen pregnancy. The story traces the search of Janie/Leshaya for a life that
will allow her to pour out all emotion in singing, the only thing that means much to her.
Although the ending is fairly positive, the language and explicitness of the book make it
hard to recommend to any young person. This girl lies, steals and has sex with no feeling
whatsoever, much less remorse. The negative consequences of such behavior do come
through, and at the end she has some feeling for her baby and makes a difficult decision.
Nye, Naomi Shihab. Habibi. DRP 53 MJ Liyana’s mother is an American, but her father is a
Palestinian Arab, which explains why the family is moving to Palestine from St. Louis.
The adjustment is hard for Liyana, and she struggles to understand the alien culture, much
less her newly revealed relatives who speak no English. Then she meets Omer and gets to
like him--a lot. When she realizes he is Jewish, she sees no problem, but realizes their
relationship could cause BIG problems for everyone. The novel deals with the
Arab/Jewish conflict in Israel rather simplistically--everyone ends up by accepting each
other. There is also a problem with the “politically correct” idea that religion is ok as long
as it makes no claims for exclusive truthfulness. The narrative seemed very slow to me for
the first half of the book, but the characterization drew me in enough for me to want to
finish it. I’m not sure young adults will have the patience. Charming and positive.
Oates, Joyce Carol. (Yes, that Joyce Carol Oates) Big Mouth and Ugly Girl. H A boy says
things in jest that are interpreted as (after Columbine) threats to the school. He is
interrogated, and pilloried by rumor and innuendo; his “friends” desert him. He goes from
being a class officer and popular writer to a misfit outcast. Meanwhile, the girl who keeps
him from arrest is a girl “jock” outcast. What happens between the two and how both they
and their families learn from their experiences make this novel a good story well told. A
few incidents with profanity (including the F word) keep this book from being totally
innocent, but the story and theme are good. It’s a little long (266 pages) for reluctant
readers, but it moves well and includes enough conflict to keep them involved Positive.
The book would make a good contemporary companion to The Crucible..
O’Brien, Robert C. Z for Zachariah. DRP 50. H Though the DRP lists this for middle school
through high school, it really is appropriate for mature students because of the subject
matter. 16 year old Ann Burden was the only survivor of nuclear war because of the
uniqueness of her mountain valley home. However, one day a man wearing a suit
impermeable to radiation appears in the valley, and instantly is poisoned by a radioactive
stream. As she nurses him back to health, he reveals in delirious ramblings, that he is not
as he appears. The mature part is a fairly graphic attempted rape that motivates the
suspenseful ending and Ann’s final decision. Positive. Well written. Unique treatment of
an interesting theme. Useful with other future/end of the world literature? (On the Beach,
for instance?)
Olmstead, Robert. Coal Black Horse. H, if anyone. OK, many people rave about this novel. The
style and use of language is masterful. BUT the novel itself is BLEAK. The novel tells
the “mesmerizing descent into the hypnotic and violent hell of war” of a fourteen year old
who must journey (much of the time on the titled horse, which is much wiser and more
experienced than he) through the worst of the Civil War, including a graphic rape, brutal
scavengers’ depredations, horrific war scenes, and every variety of violent death, to find
his dying father. Though the story is symbolic, I can’t think of a reason to recommend it
to anyone. The picture of “life” is one of the most tenuous survival, but only at the cost of
one’s belief and soul.
Oneal, Zibby. The Language of Goldfish. DRP 49. JH Fifteen year old Carrie Stokes is smart
and artistically gifted, with a loving family and a beautiful home. However, since her
family moved she has not been able to adjust to the changes going on in her life, with new
school, new “friends,” her sister’s growing up, and pressured on her to leave childhood
security behind. So she escapes--into mental illness. Positive.
Paolini, Christopher. Eragon. MJH Fantasy readers among us will already know this
phenomenal novel written by a teenager when he graduated from high school at fifteen.
Obviously the beginning of a lengthy series of novels, the story centers on Eragon, a poor
peasant boy eking out enough food to keep his family alive, who finds an unusual blue
stone, which begins an adventure that involves him with dragon, elves, and other
supernatural beings, who join him to oppose the evil ruler who dominates his world. Well
plotted, with characters who fit the conventions of the fantasy genre, but skillfully showing
gradual growth in the dynamic protagonist, this novel is positive and engaging (though
LONG—500 pages).
Park, Linda Sue. A Single Shard. DRP 51 MJ Historical fiction tale of a homeless beggar boy in
12th Century Korea who learns to be a potter and grows up. Level: probably aimed at
junior high or middle school, but might appeal to high school, too. The book moves well
and has enough action to satisfy most kids. Positive.
Paterson, Katherine. Lyddie. New York: Penguin (Puffin Classics), 1991. An ALA Best Book
for Young Adults, plus other awards. Aimed at MJ, but with romance and more young
adult conflicts, the novel is suitable for high school readers. The novel, set in New
England in the early 1800’s, illustrates the effects of the Industrial Revolution. Lyddie’s
family has only their farm, which is not producing enough to support the family. When
Lyddie and her younger brother are hired out as servants to help pay debts, Lyddie
determines she will try to reunite the family and move heaven and earth to keep ownership
of their farm in the family. Her struggle as a servant, then as a millworker, and the
conflicts she must solve along the way make this novel worthy as a good portrait of a time
and situation in history and a story well worth discussing. Positive.
Patterson, James. Saving the World and other extreme sports. #3 of the Maximum Ride books.
MJH Yes, that James Patterson, and according to the book blurbs, “he calls this the best
adventure story he’s ever written.” I read this novel not realizing it was part 3 of a series,
but it stands alone fairly well (though there are multiple references to events from the
earlier books.) The adventure is positive and really fun to read, with younger (oldest=14)
protagonists who grow and learn from the events in the book. The plot is typical of books
aimed at middle readers, with a cold scientist plotting the annihilation of half of earth’s
population (the “imperfect” half) to save the environment. Only Max, a genetically
manipulated teen who is super strong, super intelligent, and airborne, and her flying peers
can save the world. Fun read even for high school and adult readers.
Paulsen, Gary. The Bean Fields. DRP 53 not recommended for any level Well, Paulsen went
too far into his own history in this book. This book records Paulsen’s memories of
working with migrant farmers in the fields, then in a carnival. The life is rough, and filled
with positives--friendships and lessons about love and goodness, but also with negatives-sexual encounters, violence and crudeness, dishonesty. The crudeness and sex are too
much, and the positives don’t outweigh them.
Murphy’s Gold. H Western aimed at adults. Sheriff Al Murphy is tired of the
tired town with its worn out gold mines that never produced much gold, even during the
Colorado gold rush. He’s tired of killing felonious punk gunmen and dealing with the
lackadaisical merchants in his town. Then the Chinese laundryman’s wife pleads for him
to find her husband who has been missing a week. That incident begins this adventure
tale, a rather stereotypical tale. The new element is the racial prejudice against the
Chinese. The story is ok, though the violence gets brutal in places, but the novel does
include the sheriff’s love, to whom he is not married, but should be. Some language may
also be offensive. Ironically, the language may offend more than the lack of morality.
Soldier’s Heart. DRP 55. H The reading level on this novel is misleading. The reading
level and briefness (102 pages with large type and much space between lines) imply it
might be suitable for intermediate readers. It isn’t. If it were a movie, it would be R for
graphic war violence, complete with much blood and gore. The novel traces the Civil War
service of 15-year-old Charley Goddard (an actual person), part of the First Minnesota
Volunteers, who served from Bull Run to Gettysburg, when he was badly wounded. The
novel explores what a real boy might think, see, hear and feel as he experiences the brutal
combat of the Civil War. The novel is written to present the consequences of the
experience of war: a soldier’s heart (shell shock, post traumatic stress syndrome, whatever
you want to call it), the disillusionment and hopelessness, not to mention the physical
crippling, that ruins an individual for any normal life after the war is over. The novel is
well written and engaging, but very graphic. It would make a very good companion to The
Red Badge of Courage, and would present an interesting contrast to Myers’ account of
Vietnam, Fallen Angels.
The Winter Room. DRP 53 MJH Newbery Honor Book. This story is set in the mid/early
1930’s or 40’s or even a little earlier when 2-3rd generation migrant Norwegian farmers in
Minnesota still used horses to plough, but had tractors as well. The teenage protagonist
tells of the winter room where farm families waited out the long winter after the winter
chores in a woodfire-warmed room telling stories of their own near past and their
ancestors’ Viking past. When one of the stories reflects negatively on the old man telling
it, it results in disillusionment and despair--until a wonderful miracle occurs. The story is
uplifting and positive, but some VERY graphic animal slaughter scenes and a little bit of
brutality in the Viking stories may offend younger or more tender readers and parents, so
this book needs a PG13 rating and warnings of what the student may find.
Peck, Richard. Amanda Miranda H This novel deals with an English lady’s maid who looks like
her willful mistress, enough so that when the mistress’s promiscuity ends in her drowning
on the Titanic, the maid takes her place and makes a good life for herself New York. The
book is fairly positive and interesting historical fiction that portrays the
“upstairs/downstairs” class structure of turn of the century England. However, though the
sexuality is implicit and understated, it forms the major motivation for upper class
Amanda’s (the mistress) motivation, so this book is rather PG13 rated.
Are You in the House Alone? H Winner of Edgar Allan Poe Mystery Award and an ALA
Best Book for Young Adults. DRP 51 This isn’t really a mystery. The narrator is living a
rather mundane life, with steady boyfriend, until she finds a series of obscene notes in her
locker. The threats escalate until her best friend’s steady boyfriend, son of the most
prestigious folks in town, stalks her and ultimately rapes her and beats her brutally. No
one in town will acknowledge this young man’s horrific behavior because there is no
proof, and her father loses his job. There is pressure for the family to move away to hush
up the incident. Instead, the girl goes back to high school, but is shunned, even when
another is similarly attacked and left to die at the side of the road. The most objectionable
part of this book is the ending: the obviously mentally unbalanced young man sees what
he does as not being wrong at all. Isn’t he entitled to anything he wants? At the end, after
the second attack, he is whisked away to a private boarding school. He pays no
consequences. The girl pays all: she loses her boyfriend, her best friend, all popularity
and acceptance at school. Her dad loses his job. Her mother loses self respect and her
friends. I’m sure Peck thought he was portraying a bitter reality, but I hope he is wrong. I
definitely DO NOT want kids thinking this is what “justice” is like.
A Long Way from Chicago. DRP 52 MJH A man reminisces about annual summer visits
from urban Chicago to his grandmother’s rural home. She is eccentric and strong. The
adventures include much irony and poetic justice. Great characterization. Light, but
positive. Aimed at younger audiences, but high school kids would enjoy this short book,
as well.
The Teacher’s Funeral MJH Along the same lines as the Long Way from
Chicago series, this sweet family novel is set in turn of the century (1904) Indiana farm
country. The folksy, eccentric characters, the Tom Sawyeresque antics of the narrator and
his friends, and the sweet romance of a young girl struggling to find her way as teacher to
seven unique farm children make reading this novel entertaining and positive.
A Year Down Yonder. DRP 49 MJH Sequel, with the sister reminiscing about the year
she spent with her grandmother during the Depression when her folks had to live in one
room while her dad was out of work. Aimed at a little older audience. The sister is
fifteen/sixteen and she works out a romance with a young man who moves to town, but
that is not the main focus of the novel, which still centers on the strong grandmother
helping the girl with normal teen conflicts in a small town/small school atmosphere.
Peck, Robert Newton. Extra Innings. JH This novel’s cover and title are somewhat deceiving,
since the teenage protagonist never plays ball during the novel, and 2/3 of the novel is told
from the point of adults. The novel is primarily a novel of character, told from three
points of view. Sixteen year old Tate Stonemason’s parents, paternal grandparents, and
adored sister are killed in a plane crash that mangles his leg, ending hopes of future
baseball greatness. His great aunt (adopted African American) Vidalia encourages him by
telling the story of her upbringing by two African American ball players, members of a
traveling black team during the late 20’s and early 30’s. The novel is sweet, but I’m not
sure it would appeal to teen readers. Positive with themes concerning facing death,
courage in grieving and facing tragedy.
Pennebaker, Ruth. Don’t Think Twice. DRP 47 H 17 year old Anne should be celebrating her
senior year in high school. Instead, she’s spending most of first semester far from her
Texas hometown in a home for unwed mothers, contemplating the mess she’s made of her
life. This novel frankly examines girls and the reasons they have sex. It is frank, but not
explicit. The novel is somewhat positive, since the protagonist grows and learns from her
experience. Setting the novel in the 60’s allows the author to treat abortion as an option
only tangentially, so the novel won’t force contemporary teens to face the problems
brought on by teen sex as directly as such a novel should. The picture on the paperback
cover alone makes the novel one that will make Nebo parents nervous. The frankness
about sex is appropriate only for more mature high school readers.
Perez, Marlene. Dead is the New Black. JH The voice is fun, but the plot is tooo far out. The teen
characters seem stereotyped, a real trick since the book is pure fantasy. In a high school
filled with werewolves, etc, the new fad among the "popular" girls is to tote a coffin
around with them and use dress and makeup to look dead. As if. The story, a kind of
mystery, goes on from there, and is pretty predictable.
Peters, Ellis. A Morbid Taste for Bones. JH The first of the Brother Cadfael mysteries, this novel
deals with the murder of a man who opposes Cadfael’s superior in a fight over where the
relics of an early virginal saint will repose, in their traditional home in an obscure Welsh
chapel, or at the Abbey at Shrewsbury, where they can become an object of pilgrimage and
veneration. The suspenseful story that includes pinches of romance, devotion, and humor,
as well as truly unique characters, portrays 12th Century England superbly. The author is a
noted Medieval scholar. Positive. Caution: the series is aimed at adults, not adolescents.
Many themes of later novels are ADULT themes, including rape, abuse of various sorts,
etc. They are all positive, ultimately.
Pfeffer, Susan Beth. Life as We Knew It. JH This end of the world survival story, told through
the journal entries of a typical high school girl, Miranda, focuses on what happens on a
personal, individual level in a family split by divorce when a astronomical catastrophe
threatens annihilation of the whole human race. The story shows positive values and ends
hopefully, considering the circumstances. However, some of the first entries, focusing on
Miranda’s typical teen concerns, does show one friend who is an extreme Christian tied to
a charismatic preacher and does mention the promiscuity of the other of her best friends.
Miranda’s friend’s extreme devotion to a manipulative and egocentric preacher (which
ultimately leads her to starve herself to death) presents religion in a negative light. The
short references to teen sex in this early reference and in a later confrontation with
Miranda’s mom over Miranda’s friendship with a boy (Miranda’s mother is afraid what
will happen if Miranda sleeps with him) do not condemn sex before marriage, but
Miranda’s stance is that she wants to wait until she is older and truly in love. The sex is a
minor side issue, without much focus, and is never explicit or even a major concern. The
novel deals with major concerns of surviving when one’s whole existence is turned upside
down: food, shelter, fuel, family relationships, grieving, and growing up to take less
selfish, more adult responsibility for others. Positive values prevail in the most bleak of
circumstances in this depressing, but positive novel.
Picoult, Jodi. House Rules. H This Picoult is a little different, since it centers around a mystery
whodunit. It also is a good novel to read to find out about Asperger's Syndrome, from the
inside out. The protagonist, Jacob Hunt, who suffers from the condition, is arrested for the
murder of his social behavior tutor, whom he really loved. Told in the voices of Jacob, the
arresting officer, Jacob's mother and brother, and his lawyer, the book presents much
factual material about this autism spectrum in a natural way through the narrative. It is,
however, the first of her novels of which I figured out the ending about half way through
the book. The book contains adult language, quite a bit from the brother, and the expected
sensuality scene (not R, more PG13). Picoult’s novels are often adult, with some sex, but
usually positive, dealing with realistic, important problems teens and adults must face.
Second Glance. H A departure for Picoult, this novel is a ghost story (along with a
mystery/love story, as well). Well plotted, with engaging characters, including the ghost,
the story will draw the reader along, though not impelling the reader. Typical of Picoult,
the story is told through the eyes of contrasting points of view and skips around in time, as
well, allowing the reader to see the ghost's challenges and tragedies through her own eyes,
as well as telling the contemporary story through the eyes of varying people whose lives
the ghost impacts. This story is more feel good than the usual Picoult (in fact, I wonder if
she didn't change the ending from her original intent?) However, I have to add the same
old caution: the novel includes two brief scenes with graphic sexual content plus a few
more glancing graphic references, though the sexual encounters are brief and told in a
matter of fact manner, not titillatingly.
Pierce, Tamora. Trickster’s Choice. MJH Part of a series. Aly’s parents are renown, her father a
famous spy master and her mother a famous warrior. Now she has to decide who she
wants to be. Her journey puts her in danger, and she is captured and made a slave in a
foreign, high born household, and plunged into a world of conflict between politicians,
warriors, races, even gods. This well told fantasy is rich in characters and cultural
complexity. Fun and positive. Good for recreational reading. Reading circles might
stretch for discussions on growing up, identity, race relations, and the influence of folk
traditions.
Plum-Ucci, Carol. The Night my Sister Went Missing. H This mystery is really more social
criticism than mystery. The novel traces the mystery of what happened to the narrator’s
sister one fateful night at a “typical” beach party for upper class teens, a party complete
with smoking, drinking, and nasty jealousies and resentments. The novel is more or less
positive, with the narrator learning, but sadly, the true nature of his and his sister’s so
called friends.
Plummer, Louise. A Dance for Three. DRP 48 H This novel, centered around a teen’s
pregnancy, its psychological causes and resulting struggle with mental illness, would be
excellent since it deals realistically with many good issues. Unfortunately, Ms. Plummer
felt she had to add a REALLY EXPLICIT sex scene to make the point that the guy
involved was so insensitive and unloving and uncaring he had to “score” when the Jazz
“scored.” Not only is the scene unnecessarily explicit, it’s in really bad taste, as it was
meant to be. It totally ruins what would/should/could have been a valuable addition to
classroom libraries. Other teachers have pointed out an additional problem: since the girl
proves to be mentally ill after she becomes pregnant, her disability allows girls reading the
novel to continue with their “it won’t happen to me that way” mentality instead of facing
the issue of teen pregnancy and sexual activity realistically. Her mental illness lets girls
excuse what happens to her as the exception rather than the rule, ignoring the very
realistic costs and consequences of the character’s sexual activity.
The Romantic Obsessions and Humiliations of Annie Sehlmeier. DRP 48 H Annie, an
immigrant from the Netherlands, comes to Utah with her family and quickly blends in to
the high school scene. She really likes Jack, but she has a wild crush on gorgeous Wooley,
a secret obsession that leads to humiliation and rejection. The novel is frank, bordering on
explicit, in developing its theme concerning the difference between fantasy and
reality/wild obsessive passions and real love. Positive, but not for more conservative
readers.
The Unlikely Romance of Kate Bjorkman. DRP 52 JH Kate has a big time crush on her
long ago neighbor and brother’s best friend Richard. Unfortunately, her beautiful and
sophisticated best friend wants him as soon as she meets him when he comes to stay for
Christmas at Kate’s house--with his even more beautiful and sophisticated girlfriend. The
book is structured as Kate’s narrative love story, with suggested revisions along the way.
It’s fairly realistic, complete with fairly explicit kissing scenes and typical teenage
concerns bordering on vulgarity. It charmingly explores first romance, friends who “use”
others, insecurities, newlyweds and longlasting, successful loving couples. Positive and
charming.
Qualey, Marsha. Close to a Killer. DRP 48 JH Barrie’s mom is a beautician, owner of “Killer
Cuts,” a salon staffed by beauticians who met in prison, where each was serving time--for
murder. Then two people connected to the shop, one a client, another a client’s husband,
are brutally murdered. The shop almost closes because people are spooked. Barrie
struggles to live her own, “normal” teen life while her mother struggles to keep the shop
open, her workers and customers happy, and help the police solve the threatening crimes.
Positive and mostly unobjectionable. Some material is a little rough because of prison
allusions
Randle, Kristen. Breaking Rank. DRP 51 H This novel deals with tough choices: a boy
brought up by his older brother in a gang-like clan of young men who don’t “do” school
allows himself to be put in an AP track because of his high test scores. His tutor is a
“nice” girl who comes from an upper middle class home and conventional family. Little
by little she gets through his defenses. However, the “jocks” don’t allow him to enjoy life,
beating up on him and harassing him. The climax comes in a violent confrontation
between clan and jocks. Language and violence make this a mature novel. The issues
make it positive and appealing.
The local writer/Mormon concerns are there, but mostly subtle.
The Only Alien on the Planet. DRP 48 JH Ginny Christianson feels displaced. Her close
older brother has left for college and her parents have uprooted her to live in the
Intermountain West (Utah--local author). She immediately makes friends with Hally
(popular, positive and nice) and Caulder, a neighbor with whom she can talk about
anything. She is fascinated by Smitty Tibbs, a brilliant boy who does not talk or interact
with others for whom Caulder is protector and mentor. Ginny’s journey to free Smitty
from the trauma that imprisons him and her confrontation with her own fears makes this
an excellent, positive novel that deals with emotional, verbal, and physical abuse within
families.
Slumming. JH, but mature. Alicia, Nikki and Sam, really good friends, decide on a
challenge--find someone at the edge of their Utah high school culture, make friends, and
inveigle them to take them (or go with them) to the Prom. Each story brings that teen in
contact with people he/she has prejudged. The novel deals with prejudice, cliques and
social groups in high school, and with dealing with evil. LDS, but subtly so. Caution:
Sam must deal with the sexual exploitation of the girl he has chosen by her stepfather,
handled very carefully and tastefully (in fact, you could be puzzled about what the girl was
suffering). Positive, with good plot and important themes.
Rees, Celia. Pirates. H Victimized by father and brother who “sell” her to a notorious Caribbean
magnate to become his bride in order to save her bankrupt family, Nancy Kington faces a
life of virtual slavery and isolation. However, with the help of slaves, she is forced by a
climactic, impulsive, but compassionate, action to escape her fate and join pirates on the
ship Deliverance. Her story is every youngster’s dream: action, revenge, adventure as a
pirate, leading to true love. This novel provides action and fun while it teaches the
dreadful reality of a girl’s position in 18th Century England and the even more dreadful
reality of slavery. Positive, though slightly PG 13 in places.
Reiss, Kathryn. Dreadful Sorry. DRP 52 JH A teenage girl’s extreme water phobia originates in
her past life as a selfish and isolated teen in the 1800’s. How she comes to terms with her
phobia and with the selfishness of the past self makes an interesting and harmless tale with
fairly decent values of salvation and understanding. Not terribly challenging. Fairly
positive.
Paperquake. MJ Violet is tired of being excluded: by the rest of the triplets, sisters who
are blonde, while she’s dark, from strenuous teen activities by her parents, because she has
heart problems. She suffers from unreasoning fear of earthquakes, exacerbated by the fact
she lives in the Bay Area. Then when she and her sisters begin cleaning an abandoned
building in the middle of the city she finds a series of letters that link her inexplicably with
a girl with similar problems--and a similar name. She sees a message directly sent to her
over the almost century of time since the 1906 earthquake. Positive. Aimed at junior
high, but ok for high school.
Revis, Beth. Across the Universe. JH The interesting premise to this dystopia fantasy is that a
large spaceship has set out from our world with cryogenically frozen settlers for a distant
world. The ship is also manned by "regular people" who should care for the ship, the
supplies, the materials for terraforming (including plants, animals, etc) during the 300
years it will take the ship to make the voyage. The narrative alternates between a
cryogenically frozen teenage girl unfrozen prematurely after several hundred years on the
ship, which now is a dystopic society ruled by a manipulative dictator, and the teenage boy
who is being primed to take over the dictatorship. The story is a fast paced adventuremystery, with lots of good insights into societal conflict. Think a more positive, lower
level Brave New World. Positive, but the ending is open for many more sequels.
Rigler, Laurie Viera. Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict. Not recommended. A girl who
rereads Jane Austen every time something dire happens in her life (which is often) is
mysteriously transported back to the Regency world of Jane Austen, taking the body and
life of a girl who was hit on the head in an accident. She bluffs her way through, relying
on her Jane Austen experiences to carry her—and she falls in love. Unfortunately, the
novel is written for “modern adults” with vulgarisms, swearing, and with a graphic almost
seduction near the end of the novel. Though the premise is fun and the protagonist learns
and grows, the casual acceptance and expectation of extramarital sex makes it
unacceptable for most teen readers.
Rinaldi, Ann. An Acquaintance with Darkness. DRP 46 JH A historical novel double whammy:
the protagonist, newly orphaned, is getting ready to go to live with her friends, the
Surratts (yes, the Surratts whose boarding house hosted John Wilkes Booth and his
conspiracy), and her uncle, a doctor who profits from his study of anatomy done on
dubiously gained corpses, tries to stop her from going. The action and history are equally
well portrayed. The book gives human faces to both the conspiracy to kill Lincoln with its
consequences of the execution of (probably ) innocent Mrs. Surratt and to the practice of
grave robbing, necessary to medicine of the mid 19th Century. The protagonist is 14, but
the romance and adventure seem older. Positive.
Finishing Becca. DRP 50 JH Becca Syng goes into the Quaker Shippen household as
Peggy Shippen’s lady’s maid to escape her harsh stepfather and to be “finished,” to learn
the graces befitting a lady. She also wants to “finish” herself, since she feels like part of
her is missing, an important part. She is embroiled in Peggy’s life, from her tumultuous
romance with a British officer to her courtship, then marriage to Benedict Arnold. Becca
witnesses the results of the marriage, momentous to American history, and to Becca’s own
story. The book is aimed at junior high, but is definitely suitable for high school.
Positive.
Numbering All the Bones. MJH In this novel set at the time of the Civil War, Rinaldi
does what she does best: entwines at least two historical themes to communicate historical
truth to young people. This novel treats slavery through the narrator, Eulinda, product of a
union between plantation owner Mr. Hampton and her slave mother. Though she is raised
as a member of the family, sort of, and educated by the owner’s second wife, a
Southernized Northerner, she suffers the problems of slavery, including exploitation,
humiliation, having beloved family members sold away from her, etc. She struggles to
find her identity, where she fits, among the field slaves or with her father/master and his
family. The second theme involves the notorious Andersonville prison and historical
figures, including Clara Barton, who are connected to the prison. Eulinda goes there first
to try to find her brother, who deserted the plantation to fight in the Union army, was
subsequently captured, and whom Eulinda is convinced is being held prisoner there. After
she receives freedom, in the aftermath of the Confederate defeat, she helps clean up and
rehabilitate the horror-filled fortress. Positive. Eulinda’s parentage, and other sexual
issues are hinted at, handled tastefully. Aimed at junior high, the action and
characterization make this novel suitable for high school.
Riordan, Rick. The Lightning Thief. First of “The Olympians” series MJ This novel, based on
Greek mythology, explores the premise that the Greek gods are eternal—changing the
location of Mt. Olympus and their appearances and how they spend their time with
historical change: as one country becomes dominant in the world, they locate there, for
instance. So, of course, right now, Olympus and its stuggles is located in the US. And the
gods haven’t changed their moral habits: they continue to mate with mortals, producing
the heroes, half god, half mortal. This novel focuses on the struggle of one of these half
mortals, a 6th grader struggling with ADHD (the consequence of REALLY being suited to
learn and read his native language, Greek). His challenge? To find his true identity—and
save the world. Positive, with lots of adventure and fun twists involving mythological
allusions. A good novel to recommend after a mythology unit.
Ritter, John H. Over the Wall. DRP 47 MJH Caution for middle readers: a little bit of
questionable stuff (see below) This novel of facing faults and baseball features a thirteen
year old protagonist, but the story is gripping enough and the narrative voice strong
enough to appeal to older readers. Tyler’s family has been practically destroyed when his
father runs over and kills his adored baby sister. Tyler goes to live with his cousins in
New York City to play baseball all summer, with dreams of a future in the major leagues.
However, he cannot control his explosive temper, which breaks out too often and gets him
thrown off the team. Through the summer he learns from his attractive cousin, from his
Vietnam war vet coach, from his “enemy” opponent, and succeeds in learning self control.
Be careful with this novel. He accidentally sees his cousin nude and fantasizes about
liking her, an addition to the story I find unfortunate and unnecessary, unless it
underscores his naivete and neediness emotionally? The incident is handled inoffensively,
but it is there, along with his wondering if he’s in love with her. She scotches that
thoroughly.
Rose, Sherrie. A Girl, A Guy and a Ghost. This is the novel our sophomore girls would write if
they wrote novels. Traci falls for Brad, a gorgeous hunk of a quarterback. Brad likes
Traci, too. The problem? Traci’s ditzy mother runs in to Brad’s father. In addition,
Corky, Traci’s first boyfriend and long time best friend, tries to come between Brad and
Traci--and Corky has been dead for three years! The novel is mostly harmless (except for
the rather explicit description of Brad and Traci’s French kissing). It should be good, but
is mostly unbelievably sophomoric. Unsophisticated girls will like it.
Roth, Arthur. The Iceberg Hermit. DRP 56 MJH This novel tells of young Scotsman Allan
Gordon, the only survivor of the collision between a whaling ship and an iceberg. He
manages to live for over a year on the iceberg, with the help of the overturned whaling
ship and with the company of an orphaned polar bear cub. He manages to escape the
iceberg and survive with Alaskan natives until he finds another whaler to take him home
to Scotland. Once home in Scotland, he tells of his adventure—but only some believe
him. This novel is based on a historical whaler and the story he told of the whaling
voyage only he survived. Positive, with lots of adventure.
Rostkowski, Margaret I. After the Dancing Days. New York: Harper Trophy, 1986. DRP 49.
MJH Annie’s doctor dad, newly arrived home after World War I’s end, works at a
hospital for badly injured veterans. Annie goes to visit a neighbor boy with her
grandfather, a boy confined there because his eyes have been injured. While there, she
meets Andrew, whose face was destroyed in a gas attack. More than his face was
destroyed--his hope, his ambitions, his dreams were eaten away, leaving Andrew bitter and
withdrawn. At first Annie runs away from Andrew in horror, but gradually she begins to
know and like him more with each visit, visits she makes only by disobeying her mother
who forbids her to visit the hospital because she fears further involvement with men who
remind her of the war that took her brother and so many of the boys she mentored in
music. The anti war book is well written and very positive. Aimed at junior high aged
readers, the accurate and moving picture of the Great War’s victims, as well as the very
real historical and universal issues Annie must face make the book a good one for high
school readers, as well.
Rottman, S.L. Hero. DRP 46. JH Fifteen year old Sean hates the world because of his abusive,
uncaring parents. After repeated fighting and other violations, he is suspended from
school and given the chance to earn his way back in by doing community service on Mr.
Hassler’s farm. He determines he’ll serve his time, then move on, but animals, life and
death, kindness, and a no nonsense approach change him. The novel is realistic and
positive, with the change in the protagonist reluctant and realistically gradual, an
essentially sweet story. Some profanity and violence may offend.
Shadow of a Doubt. MJH 15 year old Shadow Thompson’s life has never been the same
since his older brother Daniel ran away from home with Shadow’s piggy bank seven years
ago. Now he’s entering high school, toying with joining the debate club and, for the first
time in a long time, reaching out to a girl who intrigues him and a guy who shares his
interest in debate. Then Daniel returns—a stranger accused of murder. Positive with a
semi-open ending --good for discussion
Rushton, Rosie. The Dashwood Sisters’ Secrets of Love. H This novel, dubbed an “engaging
homage to Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility on the cover, sets the story in modern
England, and updates the plot and characters accordingly. It would be fun to let students
read both and contrast them. The book is typically British young adult: it treats sexual
matters in a frank and direct manner that might be offensive to more conservative readers,
but the treatment is not explicit, is tasteful, and reflects positive values (though
premarital sex is taken for granted as being ok). One of the main characters refuses
advances from her “boyfriend” because she is not that committed to him and doesn’t love
him that much yet, and when he deserts her because she won’t comply, she decides to
give in (but doesn’t get that chance, thank goodness). The end is ultimately positive,
though what the “good guy” sees in her superficiality, I do not know. The novel follows
the Austen original in general terms, but changes particulars to fit the modern
“sensibility.”
Salisbury, Graham. Lord of the Deep. DRP 49 MJH 13-year-old Mikey idolizes his stepfather,
Bill. He wants to be just like him, owning and operating his own deep sea fishing boat.
However Bill smashes the idealistic picture Mikey has of him when he is challenged by
customers Cal and Ernie, whose selfish arrogance force Bill to go against his own ethics
and the law. The ending is realistic, but not idealistic, and may cause kids to challenge
their own ideas of integrity. The issue, however, is real, and the dilemma is one students
should talk about. The boy does stand up for his own ideals, even though his stepfather
does not.
Under the Blood-Red Sun. DRP 46. MJ 8th grader, Tomi, born Hawaiin Japanese, is
definitely American, but he and his family suffer from prejudice of others even before the
Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor, near his home. This story traces what happens to the boy
when his father and grandfather are arrested. The story is positive, with courageous
defense of the boy by some of his friends and their families, as well as prejudice-caused
injustice and bullying.
Schmidt, Gary D. The Wednesday Wars. EMJ Newbery Honor Book 2007. This novel is a little
young for high school readers, even for older junior high kids, but it presents a really nice
picture of what it’s like to be a kid growing up in the Midwest in 1967. Holling Hoodhood
faces the challenges and pleasures of 7th grade in the 1960’s: a teacher out to get him, a
bully out to get him even harder, his father’s concern that he should not upset anyone who
might give him business, his sister’s hostility and love, his first real crush. Full of humor
and fun, along with positive lessons and Shakespeare, this novel deserves any prize and is
fun to read even for adults. The novel gives an accurate picture of what it was like in
middle America in the height of the Viet Nam conflict and Cold War. Positive.
Sedgwick, Marcus. The Foreshadowing. JH London: Orion Books, 2005. Set in World War I,
this semi fantasy centers on Sasha Fox, whose brothers go to war: and she, as the title
suggests, sees their fate. The novel gives a good picture of the devastation, both physical
and psychological, of World War I, with many authentic details about the fighting, and
especially about the behind the lines medical treatment of the wounded. Positive, though
the ending is a bit morally ambiguous
Shan, Darren. Cirque du Freak. DRP 49 MJ Personally, I wouldn’t have this book around.
Supposedly, the theme deals with “the obligations of friendship” (review by JK Rowling).
It is frightening enough: a young boy and his friend visit a mysterious freak show and
encounter very weird “freaks.” The friend puts their lives in jeopardy when he corners a
real vampire and threatens to reveal him unless the man makes him a vampire, too. The
protagonist, essentially, becomes a vampire to save his friend (who is really rotten, so evil
that the vampire won’t take him because of his “bad blood.”) The book merely starts the
series, which will involve the vampire, the protagonist, who becomes the vampire’s
apprentice, and the friend, who becomes a vampire hunter. Guess who the good guys are
supposed to be. I think this dark and scary novel’s values are a bit “dark and scary,” too.
NOT positive. Though there is nothing erotic or R rated (except the grotesquery and
blood), the novel is offensive to anyone who values good over evil. The fact that JK
Rowling thinks the novel is a good one makes me question what, ultimately, the Rowling
series teaches about core values.
Shusterman, Neal. Dread Locks. JH Part of the Darkfusion series. This novel and others of the
series are what the series says it is: fusion of two mythical or traditional fairytales in a
contemporary setting with a definitely DARK tone. This one fuses Goldilocks of the three
bears fame with…well, that would be telling, wouldn’t it. When Parker Baer discovers
beautiful, but cryptic Tara sleeping peacefully in his bed, he begins an adventure that
affects his friends and family—and reveals the stone-cold hearts of some of his socially
prominent peers. Positive, with a dark ending.
Duckling Ugly. JH Part of the Darkfusion series. This novel skillfully combines the
legend of the fountain of youth with the fairy tale of the ugly duckling to tell a fantasy tale
that most teenagers can relate to. Cara is so ugly that her face breaks mirrors, but she is
lured into a fantastic green valley where people accept her for herself, where the ugliest of
ducklings can transform into swans—but at what price? Positive, with a dark ending.
Full Tilt. MJH Though he experienced a horrible trauma in his past, 16 year old Blake is
responsible, a good student, a good friend. His younger brother, Quinn, isn’t. So Blake
feels special responsibility for Quinn, especially when Blake is given a special ticket to a
mysterious carnival in an isolated, abandoned, rock quarry. When Quinn uses the ticket,
Black and his two friends chase him. The chase ends at the bizarre, supernatural carnival.
They learn that in able to escape the carnival, they must each complete seven rides before
dawn, each ride tailored to make the individual rider face his/her greatest fears. Positive,
good adventure excellent for discussion because the rides are based in metaphor.
Red Rider’s Hood. H From the Dark Fusion series: Schusterman fuses fairy tales with
horror/fantasy with modern young adult themes for gripping reading. This novel makes
Red Riding Hood a somewhat rebellious teen caught between the big bad wolf (a gang of
werewolves) and Dracula (a gang of female vampires). This novel revolves around a
teen’s having to choose between loyalty and friendship versus freedom, adventure and
unlimited power. Positive, but not for the faint of heart.
Unwind. JH Another post apocalyptic tale, this one assumes a civil war fought in
American's heartland over abortion. The outcome is a preposterous treaty that allows
parents or courts to send children between 13-18, either uncontrollable teens or children
who are "tithed," dedicated by their parents from birth, to be "unwound," with each part of
their bodies being transplanted to people who are ill or want a younger hand, face, etc.
The story's protagonists, Connor, Risa and Lev are all escaping this fate. Their adventures
and consequences make a good tale, with moral dilemmas that would make for good
discussion.
Singer, Marilyn. Ghost Host. DRP 50. JH This story about a senior quarterback who has moved
into a haunted house is ok, but not much better than ok. The main issue is that Bart (the
quarterback) really prefers reading to partying and learning to sports, but doesn’t want to
move back to the “nerd” image he had as a younger kid. He hides his intellect and his
reading, doing everything expected as part of the popular, jock crowd. Unfortunately, this
issue is treated superficially with an everything-is-all-right, pat ending. The almost
romance with one of the ghosts in his house never really amounts to anything either. The
action is ok, but not particularly gripping or vivid. Harmless.
Sis, Peter. The Wall. EMJH Caldecott Honor Book 2007. Though this book looks like a
children’s picture book, it really is an autobiographical account of one who lived in
Czechoslovakia throughout the Soviet domination, with its oppressive puppet
governments, “Czech spring,” and subsequent Soviet invasion. The picture book serves as
a good introduction to the cold war and fall of the Soviet empire. Unique in its expressive
and engaging point of view and gripping story, the book is a positive account of what it
was like to grow up under the Communist system.
Skrypuch, Marsh Forchuk. The Hunger. Toronto, Dundurn, 1999. JH Paula’s parents don’t
notice when she turns anorexic/bulimic because dad is too busy being proud at her running
and mom is too busy with her own life. Trying to complete a history project, she begins to
delve into her grandmother’s past. The past becomes all too real when Paula’s body shuts
down because of self starvation and she is sucked into reliving her great grandmother’s
history as an Armenian orphan struggling to survive in the midst of the Armenian Turkish
massacres of the early twentieth century. Though the protagonist is only fifteen, this book
is suitable to high school readers. It is positive, but there is graphic detail of her bulimia
and also graphic violence.
Smith, L.J. Soulmate (part of Night World series) JH Off the wall Gothic fantasy. A girl talking
to a psychologist in Montana is suddenly attacked and defended by werewolves. Hypnotic
regression opens up a series of her prior existences where a vampire soulmate fights for
her with an evil vampire woman. Fairly hamless except for really vivid descriptions of
vampire bites and violence.
Smith, Roland. Zach’s Lie. M Seventh grader “Zach” has to get used to a new home, a new
town, a life without his father, and a new name. He and his family are in a witness
protection program because his father has been accused of smuggling drugs for a
dangerous cartel. This novel traces Zach’s struggle for identity and normality, and his
struggle to survive the danger the family is in, as he deals with loss and uncertainty.
Positive with some tension.
Sones, Sonya. Stop Pretending. MJH Told as a free verse novel, this book tells the story of an 8th
or 9th grader dealing with her older sister’s mental illness. It is frank and engaging and fast
reading. Though the first person protagonist is obviously junior high or even middle
school age, the dilemmas she faces in dealing with her parents and her sister, with her
feelings about her sister, and with the social fallout from having a mentally ill sister will
engage even high school readers, especially reluctant ones. Positive.
What My Mother Doesn’t Know. Told as a free verse journal of a 9th grader’s crushes,
conflicts with her mother, and complications of being Jewish, this novel would be really
good and high interest except that it includes references to menstruation, breasts and
understated sexual fantasies. Nothing more than kissing happens between the girl and her
boyfriends, but there are some fairly explicit references.
Soto, Gary. The Afterlife This odd novel traces what happens to Chuy after the first few pages,
when he is stabbed to death. He deals with all of the conflicts and sadnesses of a
teenager’s life—after he has died. He faces truth about himself and his relationships, and
even falls in love. Positive, with humor and strong irony.
A Summer Life. DRP 54. H. This series of essays record memories of Soto’s upbringing
in 1960’s Chicano Fresno, California. The gentle anecdotes recreate the sights, sounds,
things of a central California boyhood so vividly that the reader almost experiences it. I
wonder if it is not a little too gentle for most teen readers. It would make a good
companion to Dandelion Wine. Be warned about the vulgarisms and references to typical
teen boy fantasies and preoccupations that might make the book a little strong for some
readers. The book is episodic, with no real plot, but characterization and the use of
concrete and specific detail to evoke a particular culture, time and place are strong
Taking Sides. Lincoln Mendoza has moved from the hard, Hispanic barrio where he grew
up to a white suburb, and now goes to a mostly white school. Though he plays basketball
for his new school, he still feels tied to his old barrio friends. So what does he do when
the two school play each other? Positive.
St. George, Judith. Haunted. J H This rather elementary mystery concerns Alex, who is to look
after a house which a murder-suicide left empty. However, Alex suffers strange,
unexplainable events, and realizes the place is haunted. Not overly well done, but ok.
Spinelli, Jerry. Stargirl. DRP 49 JH Source: Scholastic. Contemporary novel of a free-spirited,
unconventional girl moving into a very conventional and violently socially rigid town, told
by a boy who is attracted to the girl, but not strong enough to stand up for her or tolerate
the other teens’ disapproval and persecution of her differences. Positive.
Stephens, J.B. The Big Empty. JH This series’ premise is sound: a plague has wiped out more
than half the human race, and with the death of so many people came the death of
democracy and the modern way of life. The novels trace seven teenagers who travel into
forbidden Paradise City. JH
Stewart, Sean. Nobody’s Son. Not recommended for anyone. This novel, a Canadian “Best
Young Adult…” novel, is full of good storytelling, breaking stereotypes of the medieval
fantasy genre. Unfortunately it is marred by explicit sexual references and objectionable
language that overshadows any positive qualities it might exhibit. Don’t be seduced by the
narrative. It’s not worth reading.
Stiefvater, Maggid. Shiver. Series: The Wolves of Mercy Falls #1. H If you love the Meyer
books, you may really like this novel of werewolf fantasy and teen love and angst. The
basis of this fantasy is creative and adventure filled, better written than the first of the
Twilight saga. Grace, the protagonist, is much more spirited, and her fantasy love,
werewolf Sam, has the strengths of Edward, with more of the feeling of doom. The
conflict centers around the fact that werewolves in this reality eventually (sooner, rather
than later) can no longer transform back into human, losing their human memories and
reason. Grace's quest is to keep Sam more human and less wolf to save their love.
Warning: though the nuzzling isn't so omnipresent as in Meyers's opening novel (so it's
much less a distraction from the plot, though the desire is still major), the couple has
intercourse in the first novel, though the sex isn't explicit. Positivish.
Stork, Francisco. Marcelo in the Real World. H I DO wish writers would weigh their choices
before adding crude references and language to their plots. I know it's part of the "real
world" and very politically advantageous, even part of some formulae publishers insist
upon. However, I like being able to recommend reading as fine as this book to my
innocent or conservative younger grandchildren, students and friends. This book centers
around Marcelo, a young man in conflict. His Asbperger's syndrome makes him
"different," so he has always attended special schools, where he fits in very comfortably.
Now his lawyer father wants to prove he is "normal," and so insists Marcelo confront the
"real world" by working in his law office for the summer. He confronts both social
problems, including a real crush and a jerk colleague, and moral problems in his new job.
Solving them makes him grow up and experience very normal adult emotions.
HOWEVER, the crude references and attitudes of the jerk colleague, and the extremely
crude references of the love interest's Alzheimer sufferer dad make the book hard for me to
recommend.
Strasser, Todd. How I Spent my Last Night on Earth. DRP 54 H There is something about this
book that I like, though I probably wouldn’t, normally. Its premise is interesting: on the
internet comes a story that a comet is about to slam into the earth, ending life as we know
it. Everyone begins to panic. The book is about the reactions of Allegra Hanover, class
brain with SAT perfect scores to prove it, to her potentially “last night on earth.” Her
boyfriend has pushed her for intimacy: she likes him, but is not attracted to him. She is
attracted to the “bad boy” on a motorcycle, Andros Bliss. So how do you guess she
decides to spend her last night on earth? What complications push her from her
conventional “brainy good girl” track? Her uninhibited best friend sleeps with her
“boyfriend.” The novel doesn’t go into much more explicit detail than to describe some
heavy kissing, and Allegra says she spends the night with Andros in a tent on the beach,
but they didn’t sleep together. The book skirts at the edge of being R rated, but stays PG
13, with a little objectionable language along with the assumption of the acceptance of
immorality. The story is engaging, and the characters, though really little more than types,
are charming in their foibles and witty dialogue. The story’s fun to read and would engage
most teen readers, but I’m not sure it has much value or that I’d want immature kids
reading it, even in fun. The voice and the unique situation, which would be a really fun
basis for writing about values, may give it redeeming value??
Stolarz, Laurie Faria. Blue is for Nightmares. H Stacey is a junior at an exclusive boarding
school with a crush on her roommate’s sometimes boyfriend and a deep, dark secret--she
has threatening nightmares that always end with her wetting the bed. The nightmares
concern the possible death of that very roommate! And she has another dark secret--the
last nightmares she had about someone’s death came true! The story’s not bad, but a bit
concerned with folk white witchcraft for some people’s comfort (some might see it as
bordering Satanic). For my taste, I think the real emphasis on her bedwetting is
unnecessarily crude. Some of the language and borderline sexuality and attitudes towards
casual sex are too consciously modern to be comfortable.
Taylor, Mildred. The Well. DRP 51 MJH Prequel to Roll of Thunder: Hear my Cry. A post
slavery black family has amassed 200 acres of their own land. Their well is the only well
producing in a drought. People in the community come to get water, including a rotten,
nasty poor white tenant family that insists on rubbing the black family into the dirt.
Narrator is a 10 year old; with focus character 13, but there’s enough tension to carry a
high school reader. Conflict with injustice throughout, but positive at the end.
Taylor, Theodore. The Bomb. DRP 56. JH This book documents the shabby treatment of the
Marshall Islanders native to Bikini island/atoll that Americans liberated from the Japanese
at the end of World War II, then used as a bombing target/testing range for atomic bombs
in the late 40’s and 50’s. The protagonist, a Marshall islander, sees how his people are
railroaded into accepting American terms (which included much deception) to vacate the
island and feels helpless to stop what is happening. The story traces his plans to stop the
disastrous testing before it is too late, and his failure and subsequent destruction. Though
characterization is a bit sketchy, the historical aspects and basic premise are good and
provide topics for fruitful discussion about the morality of American testing and treatment
of 3rd world peoples. Negative ending. Shows American in a deservedly negative light. It
does tend to impose modern judgment on a post World War II issue, but perhaps it
deserves this kind of judgment. It only slightingly presents the American point of view.
The book is fairly easy reading, fairly engaging, and short. Aimed at junior high, the
issues it raises are a bit mature for middle school.
Thesman, Jean. Calling the Swan. JH Skylar’s mother is overprotective--she doesn’t want
Skylar to step foot out of the house. Her sister seconds her mother’s judgment, though
Skylar only talks with her in her room, but she sees her walking by everywhere she turns.
Her grandmother is supportive. Though she feels scared, Skylar attends summer school in
a school distant from her home (she has to transfer buses to get home). Little by little, one
step forward and two back, Skylar makes friends, risks, begins to face her fears, and her
family’s biggest challenge, only revealed near the end of the book--her sister’s
disappearance (assumed kidnapped and dead, with parents suspected for awhile) and her
mother’s consequent descent into breakdown. Very positive. Generally innocent with
some profanity. This story deals with a girl coming to terms with tragedy in life and
God’s role in allowing that tragedy.
A Sea so Far. JH This novel traces the stories of Kate Keely, an Irish immigrant’s
daughter orphaned and living in her aunt’s boarding house, and Jolie Logan, a pampered
rich girl invalided because of scarlet fever. Both suffer devastating losses in the San
Francisco earthquake of 1906. Their lives merge when Kate goes to work as Jolie’s
companion and travels with her to Ireland, a dram of Kate’s. The description of the
earthquake and its aftermath is well done. Unfortunately, the rest of the story isn’t nearly
as good, with melodrama and pathos uppermost. Routine, though harmless, with a touch
of early 20th Century feminism thrown in to set up the sequel.
Thomas, Rob. Rats Saw God. H Not recommended for Nebo, which is a shame, because the
theme is ultimately positive. Unfortunate, the book contains everything designed to
alienate Nebo readers: explicit sex, drug use, language, mocking of religion. The
protagonist of this novel is dealing with split parents, with a father he thinks is concerned
only with his own public image, a girlfriend who ultimately rejects him, and all kinds of
issues with school, social groups, conformity, etc. How he survives and learns is the focus
of the book. Unfortunately, the ultimately positive growth the protagonist makes isn’t
worth the stuff a reader has to suffer with this novel.
Tingle, Rebecca. The Edge on the Sword. DRP 57 JH Source: Scholastic. Historical fiction of
daughter of King Alfred the Great, the AngloSaxon king/scholar who made peace with the
Danes. Good adventure/growing up tale, with a female action heroine who actually
existed. Begins with announcement of her arranged marriage. Lots of violent action.
Positive.
Tomey, Ingrid. Nobody Else Has to Know. DRP 40 JH The premise is a good one: Webber, 15,
talks his grandpa into letting him drive down an empty country road. The next thing
Webber knows, is waking up in a hospital, his shattered leg only more painful than his
ruined future as a runner and his blank memory of what happened, even the fact that he
was driving. He finds that his grandfather has hit a little girl, now in a coma, and that the
car rolled over, hurting him. After much time, Webber remembers--he was the driver. He
is responsible. Now what does he do? However, the character is not as truly drawn as he
should be. The story seems slow. The ending is OK, but a little too predictable. The other
characters seem shallow. I’d like the reaction of a teen reader, but to me this book seems
too pedestrian for kids.
Trueman, Terry. Stuck in Neutral. DRP 53 JH Michael L. Printz Honor Book Shawn McDaniel
suffers from cerebral palsy to the extent that he cannot communicate at all; he cannot even
control his eyelids enough to blink out a response in code. But even with this severe
handicap, Shawn is happy. He is brilliant. He remembers everything he sees and hears
and feels. He has imagination. But his father, who left the family soon after he was born
because he couldn’t take the pain of having such a needy son, is rationalizing euthanizing
such people, and Shawn is convinced his father will kill him--out of love. The ending is a
cop out. The book is fairly frank with Shawn’s PG 13 fantasies about a beautiful aide and
his sister’s pretty friend and contains some profanity/swearing. Positive and worth reading
because of its attempt to capture what it would be like to be totally captive in your body,
and what would make life living in such a situation.
Turner, Megan Whalen. The Thief. Newbery Honor 1996. MJH (Aimed at junior high, judging
by the format, but high enough interest for high school, as well) What a fun read, full of
surprises and action and skillful characterization. Narrated by a thief who is locked up in
the king’s dungeon at the beginning of the story, the tale concerns a journey directed by
the king’s scholar to steal a hidden treasure valued in the neighboring lands. Positive,
fantasy/adventure well told, with themes of friendship and betrayal, but mostly just
action/entertainment.
Updale, Eleanor. Montmorency. MJH What a weird book this is. It falls into no genre I know.
It is part historical novel, since it is set in Victorian London, and it reveals some
information about the period, underlining the vast differences of lifestyle, dwelling areas,
possessions and morals that exist between the upper and lower class, but the historical
detail is sketchy and not the novel’s main focus. It is part thriller: the protagonist is a thief
who must live in fear of discovery. It is part dramatic novel: the novel deals with
transformation of lower to upper class man, so the theme would deal with class divisions,
with transformation of character, with the morality of robbing from rich oppressors of the
lower classes. The tone is probably the element that is most odd. The book is told
dispassionately, somewhat the way the protagonist lives his life. It is a fascinating
character study, however incredible (and it is incredible).
Van Draanen, Wendelin. Flipped. DRP 50 MJ, but well written enough for high school readers
to enjoy. This unique novel spans 2nd-8th grade in the life of two character/narrators,
a boy and girl, who see and tell the tale of their rocky relationship with two different
voices and two very different sets of values. Both change (and flip attitudes, hence the
title) and grow as characters the reader will enjoy. Conflicts of girl vs boy, who loves
whom and teens standing up to peers enliven this delightful novel. Girls will probably
appreciate the novel better than boys. Readers who appreciated Stargirl should like this
novel as well
Vande Velde, Vivian. Dragon’s Bait. DRP 52 JH What would one young adult do for revenge-against townspeople who accused her of witchcraft, caused the death of her father, took
all her family’s possessions and staked her out for a dragon to eat? This fantasy adventure
shows limits and dilemmas of justified bitterness and desire for revenge in the context of
shape changing dragons and nasty, villainous Inquisitors. Positive.
The Rumpelstiltskin Problem. JH The book begins with posing the problems involved in
the Rumpelstiltskin story: what would a miller be doing talking to a king? Why would
the miller tell the king his daughter could spin gold? Why would the little man want the
gold the girl gives him if he could spin gold anyway? Why would the little man WANT a
baby? The rest of the book is several retellings of the fairy tale, all of which answer these
questions--in fanciful and fun ways. Positive.
A Well-Timed Enchantment. DRP 51 MJH Enchanting fantasy in which a girl drops her
watch in a well and is pulled into a medieval world of jousts and rival princes, elves and
evil (?) sorcerers. Her companion in adventure is her cat, turned into a fetching youth to
guard her. Her problem--she and the cat begin to fall in love. The open ending of this last
conflict may discourage the more Romantic teen readers, but that complication adds comic
relief and an appreciation for literalism to the story. Positive and sweet.
Vigue, Debbie. Midnight Pearls: A Retelling of “The Little Mermaid.” JH Part of the "once upon
a time" series, this novel retells the story of "the little mermaid." Though, fortunately, it
doesn't follow the original Hans Christian Anderson tale, it also doesn't follow the happier
Disney version (and probably would have been a bit better if it did). It's harmless and fairly
entertaining, but contains inconsistencies and plot manipulations that really stretch one's
"suspension of disbelief." Too many villains don't help.
Violet Eyes. JH part of the "once upon a time" series, based on the princess and the pea This
novel is ok, but the romance in it reminded me of the cheap, but clean, romances of the 50's.
Characters and plot is mostly stereotyped and predictable, but ok for preteens.
Volponi, Paul. Black and White. JH Marcus and Eddie are inseparable friends who star as a
team in both football and basketball for their school. What makes them remarkable is
that Marcus is African American and Eddie is white, thus their nickname “Black and
White.” They also share values—or lack of them. They decide to use Eddie’s
grandfather’s gun to commit holdups so that they can get enough money to pay for senior
dues (for senior trips and graduation celebrations) and the newest athletic shoes by Nike.
The robberies prove so easy they decide to continue, but their third robbery goes
wrong—the gun goes off, grazing the head of the black man they were robbing. And
that’s when the boys take separate paths. The man identifies Marcus, but doesn’t know
Eddie. Now Eddie will “get off” and play sports for a college in town, while Marcus
goes to prison for the next two years (confusion here—18 months?). The novel is easy
reading with lots of basketball action along with insights into inner city youth reality and
the troubling consequences of racism. However, the slightly ambiguous ending seems
troubling, (though probably realistic), when Marcus decided he wants to continue friends
with Eddie (even though Eddie makes it clear he values his staying out of prison and
going to college more than his integrity or friendship with Marcus). Though Marcus
shows some remorse about the robberies (since he got caught and let down his team and
his mother and sister), no one brings up the fact that robbing another person is just plain
WRONG. The book would be good for discussion. The dual point of view is also
handled well.
Walker, Melissa. Violet on the Runway. JH Violet Greenfield looks upon herself as
deservedly not popular because she just isn’t pretty. At least that is how she looks upon
herself until a modeling agent talks her into going to New York City to try out to take her
place among top models there. The basic premise will attract any girl. The picture of
what modeling is really like seems true to life. The theme is positive: true friendship isn’t
based on popularity. Though this novel won’t make classic lists, it is harmless and fairly
well done.
Watson, Jude. Premonitions. JH Grace must go to live with her aunt and cousin after her
mother is killed. When her “best friend” disappears, she must deal with the gift that
plagues her: second sight/premonitions. Through the novel, her despair and black outlook
on her “family” and on her gifts change as she learns to act responsibly. The novel is
positive, though the plot is farfetched. The novel provides a light read, harmless and
somewhat positive.
Warner, Sally. How to be a Real Person (in just one day). DRP 49 M Though the cover
illustration makes her look older, this is the story of a 6th grader, so most secondary readers
wouldn’t really consider it. The girl’s parents are split by the dad’s employment several
hundred miles away. The mother is mentally ill, and the girl must deal with the illness, as
well as her own attempts to have friends, and survive. I didn’t read the middle of this, but
it seemed safe. Positive ending.
Weeks, Sarah. My Guy. M This novel deals with amusing but challenging parent/child
relationships when divorced parents of mortal enemies decide to marry. The mortal
enemies decide to cooperate--to convince their parents the marriage will never work.
Positive. Young--middle school/junior high.
Werlin, Nancy. Double Helix. H Very interesting novel, but beware. Though the book would only
merit a PG rating, but the implication of the narrative is that, of course, the narrator will be
sleeping with his girlfriend. Though there is no explicit sex, sometimes the “taken for
granted” sexuality is more damaging. The story is predictable, but engaging: the high school
student narrator struggles to engage with life: his mother is an asylum, a victim of the genetic
disease Huntington’s. He gets a job with a biotech company that works with genetics through
its charismatic founder. When his father finds out, he is extremely upset: he HATES the
man, but will not tell the boy why; the reason is rooted in his—and the narrator’s mother’s—
history. Positive, very current.
Westerfield, Scott. Leviathan. (#1) JH This novel obviously begins a new series of alternate
reality. The narrative begins with alternating stories between the fictional only son of
Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of emperor of the Austo-Hungarian empire,
and Deryn Sharp, a girl dressed as to train to fly in Britain's military. The two live in very
different worlds, since Britain and France use Darwin-discovered controlled genetic
mutation to merge many animal DNA's to form various flying half beasts, messengers, etc,
where Austria and Germany condemn such mutations as soulless evils and have developed
parallel machines. The two protagonists' stories begin to merge in the beginnings of
alternate WWI, for a well written, tense adventure. The title refers to a very genetically
modified whale-dirigible that Sharp rides into continental Europe on a mysterious mission
Peeps. H This novel provides teen readers with another vampire narrative, with a bit of a
twist twist: vampirism is an insidious parasite that drives its victims to insanity.
However, the protagonist isn’t a victim. He’s a carrier. So he can infect others, but
chooses to hunt down peeps instead of creating more. This novel features fast paced
narrative and positive values, but be warned that sex is always in the background, though
not explicit, in this novel.
Pretties. MJH (Book two in the trilogy) In this logical alternate reality (or future), Tally
has a nagging sense something’s wrong even though she is living the life of her dreams,
with perfect looks, an attentive boyfriend, popularity, parties and luxury. A message from
he past jars hidden memories, and she has to choose between this superficial happiness
and possible destruction—because of what she knows. Positive.
Uglies. MJH (Book one in the trilogy) In this fantasy future (or alternate reality), Tally is
almost 16, ready to “turn pretty,” with an operation that turns you into a stunningly
attractive person who parties and has fun all of the time. But a friend challenges the
superficiality of that reality, and the authorities force Tally to choose between betraying
her friend, or never turning pretty, dooming herself to a lifetime as an unattractive
outsider. Positive and fairly well told fantasy with the underlying advantage of helping
teens see through the superficial values of our very real culture.
Weyn, Suzanne. The Crimson Thread. (Ruplestiltskin) JH Part of the "once upon a time" series,
this one retells Rumpelstiltskin, this time set in mid 1800 New York, with protagonist a
young Irish immigrant fleeing the Potato Famine. It's ok, but not greatly told, though the
connection with the fairy tale is quite clever. The romance is pretty superficial, but
innocent.
The Diamond Secret. part of the "once upon a time" series, but based pretty firmly on the
original, historical Anastasia. This novel isn't too bad. The plot will keep preteens
reading, and the romance is ok, though predictable.
Water Song. One of the “Once Upon a Time” series JH This novel is supposedly a
retelling of “The Frog Prince,” but, though interesting, proves disappointing. It combines
the fairy tale, with only a hint of supernatural, with World War I’s tragedy. Emma
Pennington and her mother travel from Britain to the family’s country estate in Belgium,
never imagining that the war will reach them there, but it does, killing Emma’s mother.
Emma’s struggle to survive as the war surges around her puts her in the position to save a
young soldier almost dead from a gas attack--an unusual American with a special affinity
for water. The novel suffers from not quite knowing what it wants to be, historical fiction
or fantasy. It’s ok, but not outstanding reading. Positive and innocuous.
White, Kirsten. Paranormalcy. JH This novel is a light hearted, cute book that treats all of the
newest supernatural fads: vampires, werewolves, shapeshifters, faeries, and who knows
what else. The 16 year old protagonist wants all the normal stuff: a driver's license, a
locker, a boyfriend, and prom, but because she can identify supernatural beings, seeing
through their "put on" identities and features to who they really are and look like, she is
preempted by a regulatory organization that becomes her family. Then comes several
conflicts that disturb her life--and she must decide what and who she is. The novel makes
her pretty superficial, but the adventure is harmless and kind of fun. It's Stephanie Meyer
meets Meg Cabot.
White, Ruth. Memories of Summer. DRP 51 JH This book is set in the Depression and gives a
good picture of mountain people forced to move to the city to eke out a bare living.
However, the main theme/conflict revolves around the 13 year old protagonist’s sister,
Summer, who is gradually manifesting severe schizophrenia. The protagonist must deal
with the horrifying changes in her beloved and idealized sister and at the same time try to
contribute to the family and make a life for herself as a “normal” teenager. Positive.
Moves a little slowly. Aimed at junior high, but themes are mature. Not really historical
fiction.
Williams, Carol Lynch. My Angelica. MJ Two narrator: best friend 15 year old sophomores
really are romantically linked to each other, though they don’t admit it (and kiss) until the
end of the book. Problem: the girl thinks she can write torrid love stories like her
mother’s best sellers, when she really writes horrible melodrama. This novel is aimed at
high school readers, though it could be given to junior high kids. (However, no teenager I
know would act as these two.) Positive.
A Mother to Embarrass Me. M This novel, with a 12 year old narrator, is obviously
aimed at middle school readers or late elementary readers, since it deals with the
preoccupations of that age group; however, teachers should approach it with care because
it does treat a pre-teen’s horror at her the thought of her parents having sex. (The issue is
dealt with tastefully in connection with Laura’s mother’s pregnancy. It is a realistic
concern, and treated with affection, even humor--but preteens and teens wouldn’t see the
humor!) Laura Stephan’s parents are particularly embarrassing to her because they are so
different. Her mother is a beautiful, ex-model sculptor who is a bohemian airhead.
Everyone loves her, but Laura sees her as vaguely awful, until she announces she is
expecting a baby. Laura’s unhappiness with her mother changes to downright horror. Of
course, in time, Laura comes to terms with her parents’ difference from the norm and
realizes how much she loves her mother. Positive.
The True Colors of Caitlynne Jackson. DRP 45 MJ This novel handles a touchy subject-physical and emotional abuse by a parent--in an engaging novel for mid level readers.
Caitlynne, twelve, and her younger sister, Cara, manage together, staying out of their
mother’s way most of the time. When they’re not successful at avoiding her, the blows
and abusive remarks hurt them. When their mother stocks up a few supplies and leaves
them for the summer, or longer, the girls have to survive on their own. Positive, but a
little young for high school kids.
Wilson, Harry. Fires of Time. H When 3rd generation fire fighter Scott McLean’s best friend
invents a time machine, he “rides” it back into history to visit two fabled fires: the 1906
San Francisco earthquake, and the 1861 Chicago fire. But can he keep from changing
history? And can he turn back time to rescue his own threatened daughter? Positive, with
one glancing hint at married sex. You probably won’t encounter this book from a local
publisher. The book is fairly well written, and gives a vivid picture of the two historical
events. It takes up “time travel” contradictions that perplex most of these narratives, and
handles them fairly well.
Wolff, Virginia Euwer. True Believer. JH (One of the Make Lemonade trilogy) Told in free
verse. This novel is excellent, but problematic. It shows what life is like for city ghetto
African Americans who try to work hard to go to college and lift themselves from that life.
The core values and triumphs of this novel are good, as the 15-year-old protagonist,
LaVaughn, struggles with biology and advanced grammar, but also with her identity.
Problems: references to sex education, teen pregnancy and condoms at first (reference to
sex ed class, and her mom’s warning her that pregnancy might be what would threaten her
dreams of college); the real blow to her confidence and world view comes when she walks
in on the boy of her dreams kissing another boy.
Wooding, Chris. The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray. H Thaniel, only 17, has become a premier
London wych hunter in this alternate reality horror-fantasy. His job is to track down the
fearful creatures that lurk in the dilapidated, grungy version of London, almost totally
destroyed by German bombs lobbed from “flying ships,” dirigibles. A fortuitous
encounter with Alaizabel Cray, half crazed from a brutal possession, changes his destiny—
and the world’s. The novel is well told and gripping, but readers need to be aware that the
thesis of the novel substitutes a poorly thought out “fate” or “destiny” for the assumed
disproved and PC rejected belief in God.
Woodruff, Elvira. The Ravenmaster’s Secret. MJ Forrest Harper, 11, lives at the tower of
London where he helps his caretaker father tend the ravens and guard the prisoners. He
must face the taunts of the other children because he is so small. Then his father tells him
that he will need to help guard a Scottish rebel/traitor. He sees this task as an opportunity
to prove his courage and fierceness—until the prisoner turns out to be a young Scottish
princess! The book gives a good sense of life and work at the tower in 1735, as well as
presenting the irreconcilable conflict between the Stuarts and their British rulers.
Positive, with themes concerning prejudice and acceptance and making difficult and
dangerous moral choices treated well.
Woods, Ron. The Hero. MJH. I'm just sorry this book has not been picked up by English
teachers. It should be a real classic for junior high discussion. The story develops the
relationship of the protagonist, a farm teen during the Depression, and his town friend treat
the sadly deprived son of a real stinker who lives on the next farm. THough the
protagonist's wise and kind father encourages the protagonist to include the deprived,
oppressed boy in his activities with his friend, the two join school friends in ridiculing the
boy. Then one day they allow the boy to ride their homemade raft on a very wild Idaho
river. The consequences, a well told adventure and its aftermath, not only confront
questions of including others, judging others, and peer pressure, but also the theme
question--when is it right to lie?
Woodson, Jacqueline. Feathers. IMJ Newbery Honor 2007 This book takes its title from the
Emily Dickinson line, “Hope is the thing with feathers…” The novel is aimed at 5-6th
grade readers, with a protagonist who is 11, but the novel’s texture and style seem quite
advanced. Set in the early 1970’s, the novel centers on a “white” boy who moves into an
all black school in a racially divided Southern town, and the reaction of the female
narrator, her two friends, and the class bully and his henchman to this boy, whose long,
flowing hair, white skin, and impassive attitude earn him the pejorative nickname of Jesus.
The “hope” refers to comes to the narrator, to her deaf brother, to the friend whose father
is an evangelist preacher, to the boy himself. The novel deals with prejudice of all kinds,
as well as with the hope, both legitimate and unsustained, that religion can bring. If you’re
looking for a literate novel for late elementary grades, this novel is multilayered, with
religious symbolism, many layers of thematic content, good characterization. It is too bad
the author didn’t aim it at middle or junior high readers, since the thematic content, with
budding crushes, etc, would fit just as well, if not better, for higher level readers.
Hush. MJ 12 year old Toswiah Green’s world ends when her dad
decides to testify against fellow police officers in a murder case—and causes the whole
family to have to go into witness protection and take on a new identity in a new town.
Toswiah and her sister struggle for acceptance and identity under horribly difficult
circumstances. Positive, but not unrealistic
Wrede, Patricia C. and Caroline Stevermer. The Grand Tour. JH (2nd volume in the chocolate
pot series) This novel, the sequel to Sorcery and Cecilia, continues the epistolary form
with success, adding intrigue to the mix of comedy of manners added to magic/fantasy.
The two protagonists are now married, and one couple is on their honeymoon on the
continent. The novel is true to the period, if you don’t count the magic. Cute and positive.
The Mislaid Magician. JH (3re in the chocolate pot series) This time, the two couples are
married and struggling with children who also can control magic. The plot involves the
beginning of the railroad in England, along with a missing mage, animals that aren’t, and
powerful, magical villains. Fun and positive.
Sorcery & Cecilia, or the Enchanted Chocolate Pot. JH (first volume in the series) My
favorite description of this sprightly novel: Pride and Prejudice meets Harry Potter. This
epistolary fantasy is set in the world of Jane Austin, early 19th Century England, but in an
alternate reality when the arbiters of society are often also master mages, controlling
magic. The novel is a delightful romp of enchantment, adventure and romance, all rolled
up into a fun comedy of manners. Positive. Girls love it.
Wright, Richard. Native Son. H Though the book really does deserve to be a classic, it is so
obviously based on Dreiser's American Tragedy that it verges on plagiarism. Of course, the
addition to the naturalistic novel is the protagonist's race, which makes his tragic story, his
lack of opportunity and lack of choice made worse by his hopelessness, even more tragic.
Both novels recreate their worlds vividly, making the oppressiveness of the philosophy
and view of life they illustrate, that much more depressing.
Wulffson, Don. Soldier X. New York: Scholastic, 2001. JH Based on a true story, this first
person narrative of World War II traces the career of a young German with Russian
grandparents who is forced into the German army near the end of the war. His experiences
fighting the Russians provide vivid, horrifying detail of the carnage of the war. He is
wounded, and takes a dead Russian’s jacket, so when Russian forces come through, they
assume he is Russian. He recuperates in a Russian hospital and manages to survive,
fighting on the Russian side. His extraordinary story is a bit gory, but realistic and
fascinating, showing the humanity and inhumanity of both sides. Generally positive.
Yee, Lisa. Millicent Min, Girl Genius. EMJ Eleven year old Millicent is a genius. In high
school after skipping most of elementary, really ready for college academic work, she
doesn’t fit anywhere socially. During the summer, to force her into a more “normal” life,
her mother signs her up for volleyball and arranges for her to tutor her nemesis, basketball
jock Stanford Wong. Then a new girl moves in, Emily. Emily doesn’t know Millicent’s
IQ: maybe Millicent has a chance to make a friend. Although the novel is positive in
theme (Millicent DOES learn and change: theme is to be honest with friends), Millicent
narrates, and she is insufferable for about the first third of the novel. (The reader sees right
away why she has no friends.) I’d like to know if a younger reader has patience enough to
read this book.
Yep, Laurance. Yep, Lawrence. Dragon’s Gate. New York: Scholastic, 1993. DRP 51 MJH
Otter, forced by impulsive actions to flee China, joins his father and uncle in California.
The family works at building the transcontinental railroad across the Sierra Nevadas. The
novel dramatizes the prejudice against Chinese workers, the dangers of the work, the
hardship, fellowship and simple pleasures these men faced. The book moves quickly, with
adventure and danger spicing a tale of a boy’s coming of age, facing the fact the family
heroes he worshipped as almost superhuman are merely human, but courageous and
admirable nonetheless. Positive.
Dragonwings. New York; Scholastic, 1975. DRP 54 MJH 8 year old Moon Shadow’s
father went to America, where he has been working, sending back the money the family
needs to live, since the boy was an infant.. Then suddenly the father’s cousin appears
with a message: it is time for Moon Shadow to go to America to work with his father.
The rest of the story details the conditions of Chinese immigrants at the turn of the
century: their brotherhoods, family relationships and traditions evolving in the presence of
a dominant alien culture. The focus is on Moon Shadow’s father’s fascination with
flying, starting with kites and developing with his attempts (based on a real Chinese
American inventor in the Bay Area) to improve the Wright Brothers’ design for an
airplane in the face of prejudiced opposition from
Hiroshima. DRP 55 EM, but subject matter engaging enough for JH readers: gives good
information. Although this is a novel, with the action of the time when the atom bomb
dropped seen through the eyes of a twelve year old girl, the very short book (52 pages) is
almost totally nonfiction, with good information on the bomber, the bomb, and its
aftermath in the lives of the Japanese who suffered through it. Very short, which makes it
very accessible to struggling upper grade readers , but the young female protagonist may
turn them away from the book. Positive, with an objective portrayal of the horror of the
bomb and a good bibliography of books on the topic for further reading.
Yolen, Jane and Bruce Coville. Armageddon Summer. DRP 52 JH Marina’s mother searches
for meaning, and finds it in a strange cult preaching the end of the world, fostered by the
cult’s charismatic leader. Jed’s father seeks healing in the same cult, healing from the
shock of having his wife abandon him to run off with her lover. That’s how Marina and
Jed end up together with the 142 “Believers” at a mountain retreat, waiting for the
prophesied end of the world. The adventure they share ends in conflagration and death.
Thought the protagonists are only 14 and 15, the ending may be a little strong for some
young middle readers. The subject matter and strong narrative should carry older readers.
During most of the novel, extreme fundamentalist beliefs that make a religion a cult are
not distinguished from more mainstream belief. I expected to novel to be mostly a subtle
indictment of all belief, but the last quarter develops the possibility of positive religious
belief, though the positive view of belief is not nearly as strong as the negatively portrayed
extremes. Positive ending. Good action.
Yolen, Jane and Adam Stemple. Pay the Piper. (2005) MJ (though might be interesting enough
for older kids) A modern continuation of the pied piper of Hamelin, this “rock and roll
fairy tale” focuses on 14 year old Callie McCallan, who by accident is the only child NOT
enchanted and lead away by a popular band’s lead singer Peter Gringas. It is she who has
to free the others and lift an 800 year old curse. Positive.
Trollbridge. MJ Part of the Rock ‘n’ Roll fairy tale series You wouldn’t think you could
transform the billy goats gruff fairy tale into a contemporary teen fantasy, but Yolen and
her cowriter prove that it can be done, and done creditably to produce a readable, if
slightly weird, fantasy tale of dairy princesses kidnapped to be brides to a trio of
particularly dumb trolls, with a rock ‘n’ roll brothers-boy band (the younger brother is the
protagonist, of course) who come to their rescue. Fun, though a bit youngish. Positive
and innocuous, though a bit gory in places.
Yolen, Jane. Sister Light, Sister Dark. JH This fantasy novel, the first book in a series, definitely
presents a feminist’s medieval world, centering around a religious order/sisterhood that
raises girls to become warriors or priestesses (and support personnel) who have “shadow”
twins who come from a mirror world, but only at night in the presence of some kind of
light. The novel is not the typical fantasy, though the plot is pretty typical, dealing with a
prophesied special sister who brings disastrous happenings, as well as triumphs, for the
order. However, interspersed with the action is the historical exploration, which denies all
feminist values and participation (probably a veiled indictment of most “patriarchal”
histories). Watch out: the historical accounts mention homoerotic aspects of the order
only vaguely hinted at in the actual action of the novel.
Zevin, Gabrielle. elsewhere. JH Probably the attraction of this book lies in its premise: an
afterlife where people age down instead of up, this time from the time of their deaths
backwards. The book centers on 15 year old Elizabeth Marie Hall, who dies, then has to
come to terms with death and change and loss and letting go and living a new life with
love and dogs and mature choices. Positive. The book briefly deals with the question of
“intimacy” tastefully.
Memoirs of a teenage amnesiac. H This novel is far more “normal” than elsewhere.
When Naomi dove off the school steps to save a camera, she had no idea her fall would
lead to amnesia which wipes out her memories of four years of her life—including
memories of her parents’ painful divorce, her best friend and co yearbook editor Will, four
years of school including 7-10th grade, and her boyfriend. The most notable effect of the
fall—Naomi isn’t herself anymore, or is she, and who is she, anyway? This novel about
teenage angst and identity is candid and very real. Canadian, it contains mature matter,
including references that show that teen drinking, soft drug use and premarital sex are a
part of life largely accepted and taken for granted—and none of these become main issues
in the book (except not drinking and not having sex with her boyfriend). Ultimately
positive, though only recommended for mature teens with strong values, this novel might
be a useful one in helping clarify their own values. The characterization is excellent and
story engaging, and the adults come out as positive!
Zindel, Paul. The Gadget. New York: Dell Laurel Leaf, 2001. MJH Near the end of World War
II Stephen Orr sees his British cousin killed before his eyes during the Blitz, then goes
home to the US where it is safer living with his physicist dad, who is working on a top
secret project in New Mexico. A spy story, a moral tale and factual history mix in this tale
of the development of the atom bomb and its personal toll on scientists working on it. The
novel presents both sides of the moral dilemma, the modern “politically correct”
indictment of the decision, plus the rationale behind using the bomb, with the former
weighted only a little more heavily (ending sentence: “....the dust rising as the trucks
headed off the mesa on their way to end a war.” Fairly positive.
Zusak, Markus. The Book Thief. New York, Knopf, 2006. JH I’m not sure why a novel narrated
by death in which almost everyone dies is positive and fun to read, but it is. Perhaps it is
the intriguing, lovable and delightful characters. (Be careful of the woman who raises the
protagonist, because she uses some pretty crude language.) Perhaps it is the ultimately
positive outlook of the protagonist. Perhaps it is the novel way in which the novel is
narrated. Perhaps it is the essentially positive themes. Whatever the appeal, the book is
engaging and positive. Although, both my student and I didn’t like the novel at first, with
a bit more patient reading, it managed to charm us even through its bleak action of war
torn Germany. Definitely recommended.
Adult Contemporary Books and mystery writers that you might want to know about:.
Albom, Mitch. For One More Day. H I think I'd like Albom if I didn't think he was so
manipulative. This book is another feel good with the message live every day and value
your life, beginning with the attempted suicide of a man who has made all of the wrong
decisions, stemming from his misjudgment of his parents, then has the miraculous chance
to see his life a little differently, by having "one more day" with his dead mother.
Braun, Lilian Jackson. The Cat Who Went Bananas. JH This novel is part of a series that is
usually sweetly harmless and quite charming, though not typical of the mystery genre.
The novels deal with middle aged, former reporter and columnist and recovered alcoholic
Jim Qwilleran, who lives well with a fortune he inherited in Pickax, Minnesota, a
charming far north town full of idiosyncratic characters who are full of larceny and often
intent on murder. The series always subordinates the mystery to the humanity: the
novels are long on characterization and charm and short on plot. The cats in them are
charming as are the gently humorous characters. This particular novel, however, is
particularly disappointing because the novelist is sloppy and doesn’t really end. The
crime is never really “solved”; in fact, that’s kind of the point, though I think that was a
convenient explanation for leaving all ends dangling, including a particularly attractive
character who disappears with hints of evildoing and never reappears or is explained.
Not recommended. Most kids really wouldn’t like the series because it is not action filled
and focuses on gentle characters and mild satire rather than on the mystery itself. Too
slow for most teens.
Clark, Mary Higgins. No Place Like Home. JH This novel follows the typical Clark pattern. It
is somewhat predictable, but is also a predictably good read, with a likable heroine who is
in the obligatory jeopardy to provide the thriller ending scenes Mary Higgins Clark is
noted for. The premise is a promising one: a young woman is brought by her second
husband to her own childhood home, the home in which she accidentally shot and killed
her mother, trying desperately to protect her from her violent stepfather. Ok for readers
who like suspense stories.
Clark, Mary Higgins and Carol Higgins Clark. The Christmas Thief. JH This novel is second in
a series of Christmas “mysteries” written by the mother and daughter authors. The plot
spins on a newly released from prison con man who has hidden away some of his ill gotten
gains, and now wants to find them. However, he chose to hide his loot in an eighty foot
blue spruce tree—which is due to be cut down to grace the Rockefeller Center! The plot
goes from there to semi humorous, based-on-coincidence complications which prove to be
only mildly engrossing/ entertaining. This novel is more along the order of “mysteries”
written by Carol, not the thriller quality of Mary. Ok, harmless, but not earthshakingly
good.
Crichton, Michael. State of Fear. H It’s too bad this contemporary bestselling author includes
crude sexual references and lots of profanity and obscenities in his books. This one has a
pretty good plot and an excellent thesis (Stronger than theme, it’s supported by the
nonfiction imposed on the fictional story). This novel includes charts, graphs, and lots of
footnoting to support the author’s thesis: scientists “jump on the bandwagon” with
politically correct hypotheses, and then cannot be persuaded they are wrong, even if
evidence is overwhelmingly against the hypotheses. In this case, he cites studies and
experiments that show that global warming really doesn’t exist, despite the fact it is a
convenient reason for supporting environmentally friendly organizations and measures.
Interestingly enough, scientists condemn the novel and dismiss the research, but I’ve
looked for specific facts and specific citations of experiments and research that refute the
thesis. The scientists say that global warming exists, but then use the very things
Crichton refutes quite well to try to “prove” their “politically correct” thesis. Give this
novel to scientifically minded, but liberal youth whose parents are not easily spooked by
offensive language and mildly crude sexual references (not explicit sex).
Cote, Lyn. Loving Constance. (Love Inspired Imprint by Steeple Hill publishing—softback
“Inspirational Romance” The plot on this one was fairly thin, the characterization pretty
much limited to “types,” rather than well drawn individuals. That said, the plot does have
some suspense to it, and the romance is clean, with the required-by-the-formula (I assume)
touches of faith. The book is aimed at adult (middle aged?) readers; however, most girls
would like this romance, though it won’t become anyone’s favorite. If the others of this
imprint written along the same formula, these will be safe to put out for our teen romance
readers.
Dawkins, Jane. Letters from Pemberley. H This continuation of Pride and Prejudice follows
the lives of the characters of the novel with loyalty to the original, but with some evidence
of growth. The novel is epistolary, told through the letters Elizabeth writes to sister Jane.
However, staying faithful to Austin robs the novel of any new conflicts or real plot. It is
fun to continue with the characters and find out what happens afterward, but don’t look for
anything earthshattering. Positive.
Dorris, Michael. A Yellow Raft in Blue Water. DRP 51 H, if at all. This novel has much to
recommend it: multiple points of view, Native American/African American protagonist,
superb characterization. The story unfolds through the points of view, with the
granddaughter’s story and her picture of her mother and her actions told first, then
explained by the mother, then given meaning by the grandmother. The story, however, is
relatively negative with explicit domestic violence, sex, language, etc. I was so depressed
at reading the granddaughter’s story that I almost didn’t finish. The rest was a little better,
and the reader leaves understanding the seemingly inhuman and abusive actions and
reactions of the mother and grandmother, a product of their life circumstances, but the
totality is still really dire
Evanovich, Janet. Metro Girl. Well, no obligatory explicit sex in this delightful book, but lots of
language and lots of relatively crude references do mar the novel. What makes the book
delightful and kept me reading despite the sexual references was the humor and repartee in
this thriller, along with the protagonist: a feminine tough gal who knows mechanics and
NASCAR. The novel is fairly well plotted, though not overly credible.
Freu. James. A Million Little Pieces. You’ve heard the controversy. Though this was put out as
a memoir (because he couldn’t market it as fiction), it’s really somewhat fictional, merely
based on his experiences as an addict overcoming addiction. As mother of a heroin
addict, I have an expertise to judge its value. Even before the controversy began I liked
and didn’t like this book for a variety of reasons: Good points: it describes the addict’s
cravings for drugs and feelings of being high in vivid detail so that non druggies know
how seductive and enslaving drugs really are. It has memorable characters with whom
one can relate. It is positive in that Frey does depict his gradual success in overcoming
his addiction to cocaine and alcohol. Bad points: it describes the addict’s cravings for
drugs and feelings of being high in vivid detail so that those disposed to drugs could
easily be sucked in deeper or sucked in again. I refused to give the novel to my son,
despite Frey’s success. Frey’s theme: you don’t need a 12 step program nor any belief in
any higher power to get off drugs. Though this is true for him, it may not prove true for
so many others. It gives rationale for those on such programs who do not want to do the
WORK it takes—psychological, analytical, disciplined WORK, to pull away from
addiction to drugs or alcohol. The style is rather hideous: unformed listing of
impressions, conversations and actions almost undigested. The detail (I guess, much of it
made up.) is what makes the novel gripping. If you are mature and want to know what
it’s really like to be an addict kicking drugs and alcohol, and you have a strong stomach
for (every-other- word F---) the typical addict’s vocabulary and the brutality and
sliminess of the addict’s world, you will enjoy reading this book.
Gruen, Sara. Water for Elephants. H What a disappointment! This novel has a fantastic
plot with interesting characters (even an unforgettable elephant) and a worthwhile, positive
theme. But as in many modern novels, the author has loaded in explicit sexual situations
that detract from its quality (and really aren’t necessary for the story). In the early days of
the Depression, a young man (almost graduated as a veterinarian) is devastated by his
parents’ sudden deaths. He finds he has NOTHING, because his father, a veterinarian
whose practice the youth has expected to join, has mortgaged everything to pay for the
boy’s schooling. Almost by accident the young man is employed by a circus to help set up
and care for animals. The book focuses on the ins and outs of early twentieth century
circuses, the drama of abusive relationships and love triangles, a wonderfully insightful
elephant, a serious circus fire, and the triumph of age. Not recommended.
Hillerman, Tony. Skeleton Man. H This mystery is the newest in Hillerman’s collection of mysteries
set in the Navaho/Hopi lands of Arizona/New Mexico/Utah. One side benefit of reading this
stories is what the reader learns about historical and contemporary Hope and Navaho culture.
Hillerman has created two attractive sleuths, former fabled Navaho tribal policeman Joe
Leaphorn and current policeman and apprentice “medicine man”/ shaman Jim Chee. Some
This novel features both protagonists. The mystery involves a past airline crash, mysterious
diamonds, and a cult reviving worship of the Hopi god of the underworld. (Be careful with
this series: some of the books feature rather explicit violence and abuse.) This one is positive
and relatively safe, with only touches of profanity.
Hickam, Homer. October Sky. (Nonfiction) H This inspiring story is set in a Appalachian West
Virginia coal town in the midst of the 1950’s, full of prejudice, labor unrest, dashed hopes
and uncertain futures. Homer Hickam’s dream, of sending rockets into space, transforms
this reality for him and for his friends. This book is well told, a great true story. Be aware,
however, that not only does it include offensive language and a raw prostitute, but pretty
frank, though not to the point of being explicit, accounts of initiating sexual attractions and
experiences. Adult readers would find it tasteful, but many Nebo parents would be
offended.
Hillenbrand, Laura. Seabiscuit. H Nonfiction. This book reads like a novel, an unbelievably
inspiring novel of relationships between horse and jockeys, a novel of triumph of the
underdog over overwhelming obstacles to win unbelievable victories. And it’s all true.
The narrative flows well, based on interviews of participants or interviews of their
relatives and friends. The novel does contain R language and includes brief mention of
visits to prostitutes, all as part of the real milieu of horse racing. Positive true story of the
Depression champion horse.
Hoag, Tami. Kill the Messenger. H, if that. Not recommended. The plot is arresting, and the
writing’s adult, but the language is foul and the violence and sex are too edgy for our readers.
I felt kind of bleak and slightly soiled after reading the first part of the book, but the plotting
was good enough I skipped through and read the ending.
Hosseini, Khaled. The Kite Runner. H, but not recommended unless you’re REALLY brave.
Though this book has netted rave reviews and is being required in many English programs,
you have to be warned of crude, offensive vocabulary (rare) and, more troubling, the
central incident, the rape of a 12 year old boy by the village bully while the narrator hides,
doing nothing to stop the rape. The book presents a picture of life in Afghanistan just
before, during and after the Russian invasion. Then the action moves to America and
shows the life of Afghan refugees. This excellently written novel centers on class
differences, identity, shame, guilt and redemption. It is too bad the central incident is so
graphic, because the rest of the novel is so ideal for teaching: thought provoking theme,
excellent characterization, great for multiculturalism, superb writing. (It would be an ideal
novel to teach as a companion to Separate Peace, especially since this novel is
POSITIVE!! However…..is this a hill you’re willing to die on? You would have to be
VERY, VERY, VERY careful which student reads this novel if you choose to include it in
your classroom collection.
A Thousand Splendid Suns. H Like Kite Runner, this novel centers on Afghan lives, this
time the lives of women, who survive the history of Afghanistan from the 50's to 2001. It's
frank, horrible, and ultimately positive, tracing the suffering of women in this changing,
chaotic, tragic history through two strong protagonists who weather death, oppression, a
violent husband, childbirth, loneliness, isolation, and ultimately strengthen and nurse each
other through some of the worst that women in Afghan society are called upon to survive.
If you want to experience admiration, compassion and gratitude, and learn dramatically
what life is like for women in Afghanistan, read this novel
Isaacs, Susan. Any Place I Hang my Hat. Although this novel has fairly decent themes centering
on finding yourself: forgiving those who have made your life horrible and committing to
someone you finally admit you love, the narrative contains the obligatory sex scenes. The
writing is acceptable, with good characterization and realistic action. It is very accepting
of premarital sex, but the protagonist does marry in the end.
Jance, J.A. Day of the Dead. Not recommended. I usually really like Jance, but the abuse and
violence in this mystery was too much for me (and I read many mysteries without
problem). Just the first third left me feeling dirty and depressed, so I read the ending and
left it at that. Yuck!
Kidd, Sue Monk. The Mermaid Chair. (same author as Secret Life of Bees.) Only for mature H
The story’s protagonist has to deal with coming to terms with her mother’s tormented past
as she questions her own marriage and grapples with her attraction to Brother Thomas, a
monk soon to take final vows. Though the story deals with adultery, it does endpositively.
It is well written, but definitely looks upon the adultery as acceptable, even necessary.
Not really recommended for high school students, since its assumptions violate accepted
standards. The “happy” ending seems less than probable to me, though the author tries to
make the ending realistic
The Secret Life of Bees. H. This novel is definitely a girl-book, a several hankie tearjerker, as well. This well written story features superb characterization and an inspiring
plot, with a positive ending. In 1964 South Carolina, Lily Owens’ life turns around the
contrast between the fragmented memories of her mother’s love and the stark reality of her
father’s physical and emotional abuse. When her fierce African American nanny,
Rosaleen, inadvertently stirs up racial trouble and is in danger of losing her life, Lily helps
her escape. Together they travel to Tiburon, South Carolina, to live sheltered by a
remarkable trio of African American beekeeping sisters. The novel examines identity,
memory, love, and female strength in a positive, though realistic and challenging manner.
Adult language, both obscenity and profanity, is present, but rare. Physical violence and
suicide make issues and themes in the novel adult, as well.
LaHaye, Tim and Jerry B. Jenkins. Left Behind. This novel, the first in a best selling series, tells
the story of the times immediately after the “Rapture” when the righteous will be caught
up to heaven to avoid the sufferings of the period immediately before the 2nd coming of
Christ. The novel follows two men, a prestigious reporter and an airline pilot, who
struggle to decide whether or not to become committed believers in a secular, increasingly
challenging world. World events in the novel follow some Protestant interpretations of the
book of Revelation in the New Testament. Positive, and though the writing is not top
notch, the characterization and plot are fairly engaging.
Lawson, Mary. Crow Lake. I'm hoping this story is picked up by the classics makers and lasts.
The gentle narrative traces the story of the Morrisons who live in a tiny backwoods
farming community frozen/trapped in time. The narrative focuses on Kate, an intelligent
college professor struggling with identity and vulnerability, who tells her unfolding present
story with copious flashbacks on her childhood, from the time she is newly orphaned at
seven to the further tragedy of a neighboring family, and her part in their tragedy. Good
characterization, real story, well told and engaging. Language and sexual issues are
handled sensitively, but are mature. Ultimately positive.
Macomber, Debbie. When Christmas Comes. The plot was a little out of the ordinary, in fact,
lots of fun to read. However, once again, in the last quarter of the novel, explicit sex,
though not so bad as others. Since the protagonist was a 38 year old mother of a college
student, I don’t think most of our girls will care about missing this one.
Maguire, Gregory. Wicked. H, if any. This popular novel forms the basis, I assume, of the
Broadway play. It has an attractive premise: the story of the “Wicked Witch of the West,”
born to a fundamentalist preacher and a promiscuous aristocrat’s daughter in an out of the
way hamlet in Oz, but an Oz very different from Baum’s. The theme concerns the nature
of evil, and all the modern “politically correct” rules apply. The protagonist is born green,
which alienates her from everyone else, so all the “diversity” problems and challenges
come through. Religion in this novel produces narrow, self centered individuals whose
actions in this novel are truly evil. The novel itself is effective narrative, but contains
enough sex, some explicit, to rate an R and to rate a capital letter CAUTION when
students want to read it. It is mature in both sexual content, but to me the thematic content
and the dreary, hopeless world that the author creates will keep me from recommending it.
McEwan, Ian. Atonement. H Wonderfully written, with multiple points of view and superb
characterization, this novel deals with the reverberations of what happens when a selfdramatizing, self conscious, pretentious and precocious 13 year old views and
misunderstands her sister’s burgeoning “romance” with their servant’s brilliant son.
Shattered lives result from the girl’s misunderstanding, her impulse toward drama because
she is a “writer,” and the resulting self deceptive and self serving lie. However, the novel
includes sensual, rather explicit sexuality that makes it hard to recommend to students.
The theme is essentially negative, since it shows how even well meaning deception can
ruin multiple lives, and that there really can never be true “atonement” that will heal what
cannot be undone.
Olmstead, Robert. Coal Black Horse. H, if anyone. OK, many people rave about this novel. The
style and use of language is masterful. The picture of what the American Civil War was
really like is gripping, though horrific. BUT the novel itself is BLEAK. The novel tells
the “mesmerizing descent into the hypnotic and violent hell of war” of a fourteen year old
who must journey (much of the time on the titled horse, which is much wiser and more
experienced than he) through the worst of the Civil War, including a graphic rape, brutal
scavengers’ depredations, horrific war scenes, and every variety of violent death, to find
his dying father. Though the story is symbolic, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. The
picture of “life” is one of the most tenuous survival, but only at the cost of one’s belief and
one’s soul. The explicit rape scene makes it a No for most of Nebo School students.
O’Brien, Tim. The Things They Carried. DRP 55 H This Viet Nam war narrative is not told
chronologically: the average teen reader would need help in keeping straight what is
happening, since the anecdotal organization will talk of what happened to a character
early, then narrate the actual event much later. The novel contains everything you’d
expect from a Viet Nam narrative: graphic violence, language, accepted immorality, all
kinds of horrors of war. The title refers to literal “things” soldiers carried into battle or on
the long journeys they made through the varying countryside of Viet Nam, but also to what
they carried after the war--memory, self hatred, disillusionment, grief. Attention AP
teachers--one of the middle anecdotes is a parallel to Heart of Darkness, with an innocent
girl taking the journey into the heart of evil, both fascinated and attracted to the evil and
giving herself over to it. The novel is worth reading as a picture of war, and especially of
the horrors of that war, but it is not for the faint of heart or the immature. Definitely R
rated.
Otsuka, Julie. When the Emperor Was Divine. JH Adult novel. Multiple narrator Excellent
novel that details the history of a Japanese family living in San Francisco during World
War II. The novel begins with the mothers’ preparations to leave home and all it includes.
It traces the mother, with her son and daughter, in their journey to internment first at
Tanforan race track, then at the Topaz Internment Center near Delta. The novel ends with
the resumption of their lives in San Francisco, the return of their imprisoned father
irrevocably changed. Positive
Patterson, James. Sundays at Tiffany’s. H Adult novel with R rated one chapter OK, normally I
don't read pure romances, but I picked this one up because it was cheap and the premise
sounded good. It's a sweet story of a girl who is lost in the morass of uncaring business
and family, who dreams of her childhood "imaginary friend," an interesting, devoted guy.
Then whom should she run into in her adult reality --but that very person. Skip chapter 66,
unless you enjoy really explicit sex, and you have a really light, fun romance.
Winspear, Jacqueline. Maisie Dobbs and Birds of a Feather. New York: Quality Paperback,
2003. H These two mysteries combine historical fiction and conventional mystery genres
well. Maisie is a girl from the working classes forced to work as a maid in an
aristocratic household. How she becomes an educated, supernaturally medium- like
“detective” is part of the first story. The setting of the mysteries is the 30’s, but
flashbacks fill in Maisie’s past, with good historical scenes of her experience as a nurse
on the front lines during World War I. Both mysteries hinge on historical details. These
clean, positive mysteries teach about both eras without pain and bring up moral issues and
psychological truths worth talking about. They are British, so they may be too slow for
some kids, but the characters should pull in most readers who are at all mature.
Short Story Collections:
Gallo, Donald R. ed. Destination Unexpected. JH This brand new collection features short
stories by some of the best writers for adolescents all grouped around the theme of
journeys. Some of the journeys are more metaphorical, some literal. The stories are
positive and show quality. They could be used to teach literary analysis in any junior
high/high school English class. Read them first--some are more mature in theme or have
objectionable language.
No Easy Answers. H This collection includes stories by such featured authors for
adolescents as Will Weaver, Walter Dean Myers, and Louise Plummer. The theme is a
challenging one--teenagers making tough moral choices. The stories tend to be quite
challenging as well, dealing with such touchy issues as homosexuality, teenage pregnancy,
gangs, drug abuse, framing someone for child sexual abuse, etc. I wouldn’t recommend
giving the book to students, but using individual stories for good class discussion and
writing after careful reading by the teacher.
Sixteen. H This collection from the 80’s includes some stories that would be very useful
for teaching literary techniques to kids. Some of the stories are pretty negative or R rated,
however, so teachers are cautioned to read before recommending or using the stories.
Time Capsule. H This unique collection includes one short story for each of the ten
decades of the twentieth century. What a superb way to teach history! The stories are all
positive with one exception, which includes sexual and drug references and objectionable
language (the 80’s story). The stories are well researched and show setting at its best, with
the details of living and concerns of teens of each of the decades well portrayed in stories
with meaningful themes. Don’t miss the 70’s parody in which 60’s hippie parents
consider it politically incorrect for their teen to be drug free and playing football! This
story and one other contain references to drugs and another has veiled sexual references,
so read the stories before you use them.
Visions. Older collection. Most of these stories are appealing and positive, but there are a
few that might contain mature themes and scenes. Again--probably good for the teacher
for read-alouds or to use individual stories, but not to give the collection to students to
read the whole book unless the teacher reads them first and cautions the individual readers.
Marston, Elsa. Santa Claus in Baghdad. MJ Marston takes each of 8 Arab countries and tells a
story of a young person struggling with existence in that world. The stories show the
customs, beliefs, problems and concerns of the Arab world in very specific country
contexts that teach students about each country and the overall culture at the same time
telling stories of teenagers young readers can relate to. Positive. Unfortunately, the
stories seem a little young for high school readers, though some of the issues (forced
matrimony, suppression of women) are mature.
Newbery and other award winning books-2007/8
Jenkins, A.M. Repossessed. Newberry Honor 2007. This book begins with an interesting
premise: a henchman of Satan comes to earth to inhabit the body of a newly dead teenager
and discovers what it’s like to live. It celebrates life and all it of its challenges, goodness,
with all the fun, quirky detail of being a teenage boy. HOWEVER, that all includes rather
graphic sexuality of several different stripes. Though the theme and outcome are
ultimately positive, it also implicitly indicts God for being distant or nonexistent. NOT
RECOMMENDED!
McCaughrean, Geraldine. The White Darkness. Michael L. Prinze Award 2005. MJH This
adventure novel stretches credulity—a lot, though probably no more than the Horowitz spy
novels, so though the adventure is gripping, the novel is probably not going to make a hit
with high school readers. Sym’s uncle Victor is obsessed with Antarctica, and Sym has
her own interest in the continent—Titus Oates, a young member of the doomed Scott
expedition. Victor takes Sym on an expedition to the continent—hiding their destination
from her mother. The tourist expedition becomes something much more sinister when
Victor steals a vehicle full of supplies and journeys with Sym and two others alone on an
ill advised quest for something much more eccentric. Positive, though far fetched. Kids
will learn A LOT about Oates and the Scott expedition, as well as about Antarctica itself.
Schmidt, Gary D. The Wednesday Wars. EMJ Newbery Honor Book 2008. This novel is a little
young for high school readers, even for older junior high kids, but it presents a really nice
picture of what it’s like to be a kid growing up in the Midwest in 1967. Holling Hoodhood
faces the challenges and pleasures of 7th grade in the 1960’s: a teacher out to get him, a
bully out to get him even harder, his father’s concern that he should not upset anyone who
might give him business, his sister’s hostility and love, his first real crush. Full of humor
and fun, along with positive lessons and Shakespeare, this novel deserves any prize and is
fun to read even for adults. The novel gives an accurate picture of what it was like in
middle America in the height of the Viet Nam conflict and Cold War. Positive.
Selznick, Brian. The Invention of Hugh Cabret. EMJ Caldecott Winner 2008. This book is a
very interesting mix. It’s a picture book, with wonderful black/white pencilly illustrations,
which makes it, with its chapter book length text, over 500 pages long. It is a wonderful
adventure tale set in the 1800’s; but it is also nonfiction, based on an actual historical
figure. It includes all of the conventions of a child’s adventure fantasy: a skilled and
resourceful orphan protagonist, a grumpy storekeeper, mysterious happenings that might
partake of the supernatural, a mystical talking robot-like mannequin the protagonist must
fix. I think it will be interesting to see where its readership lies. The novel is novel and
fun to read, positive in theme and content.
Sis, Peter. The Wall. EMJH Caldecott Honor Book 2007. Though this book looks like a
children’s picture book, it really is an autobiographical account of one who lived in
Czechoslovakia throughout the Soviet domination, with its oppressive puppet
governments, “Czech spring,” and subsequent Soviet invasion. The picture book serves as
a good introduction to the cold war and fall of the Soviet empire. Unique in its expressive
and engaging point of view and gripping story, the book is a positive account of what it
was like to grow up under the Communist system.
Weir, Alison. The Wars of the Roses. OK, I teach European History, and this historical series of
civil wars is one area I didn't know well. This book, by Alison Weir, is FULL of
information about the people, battles, consequences of this destructive conflict. Weir has
a good sense of what is truly important and is not afraid to pass on judgments (hers and
others') of the people and their actions. She is fair and presents all sides and aspects.
Informative. Also frank about the sexual escapades of these historical personages and how
they impacted the history.
Older, Recommended Books/Series
Cooper, Susan. The Dark is Rising series DRP 53 Very dark and threatening, so not for
squeamish readers. Some might regard pagan religious references as being satanic, so
should be handled with care. Positive outcome of the series shows the triumph of good.
Cushman Catherine, Called Birdy DRP56; Midwife’s Apprentice. Matilda Bone. DRP 52 Some
students may have read these or had them read to them in middle or junior high school; but
the interest level is high enough for high school. The book is appropriate for 9th grade to
correlate with world civ classes.
Hobbs, Will. Beardance DRP 53; Bearstone DRP 51; Down River DRP 50. Aimed at younger
readers, but the adventure outdoors and conflicts make them OK for high school
readers.
Lewis, C.S. The Great Divorce. H Excellent parable of a man visiting heaven from hell,
examining what keeps people from goodness and God. I like philosophy and
religion made real as this book makes them.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. (Along with the rest of the Chronicles of
Narnia series) MJH This set of novels can be read at every level, since in essence,
they make up one giant allegory of life for Christians. Centered around the fight
between good and evil, with the lion as a Savior figure, the books give the reader
adventure with morality. The first is probably the best story and is the most
symbolic. The others are also worth reading, but not as captivating. Positive.
Screwtape Letters. MJH These entertaining and thought provoking letters are
supposedly from one of Satan’s minions to the antihero, detailing the techniques,
failures, and successes of this evil force in the fight between good and evil.
McKinley, Robin. Blue Sword DRP 59; Hero and the Crown DRP 60; Beauty DRP 56; Spindle’s
End DRP 60. Aimed at younger, but high interest for senior high readers of fantasy.
Paulsen, Gary. Canyons DRP 51; Woodsong DRP 51. Although kids probably have read Hatchet
DRP 54 and sequels in middle or junior high school, these two are worth looking at for
high school. Canyons breaks Paulsen’s accustomed pattern because it features elements of
the supernatural. Woodsong is his true account of running the Iditerod. (It also has
elements of supernatural or hallucinations?) The Island DRP 53; The River DRP 54 all
concern the teen survivor theme. The Rifle DRP 60 is a short novelette which tells a dire,
anti-war story of a colonial weapon; Nightjohn DRP 46 is a very well written novel of
nobility and sacrifice in the context of pre Civil War slavery.
Wrede, Patricia. Dealing with Dragons series DRP 50-55 MJH This delightful series is aimed at
younger children, but is fun to read all the way up to adult. The sword and sorcery story is
told with delightful whimsy and humor which make it so much fun for adults. Positive.
The Raven Ring (for older readers) This fantasy is older, but fun to read and high interest.
Yep, Lawrence. Dragonwings DRP 54; Dragon’s Gate DRP