Kazumi Reads

Plot Summary:
Some people believe in the concept of reincarnation, or rebirth, but for Travis Coates he was literally brought back to life with the help of a scientific procedure that's still in its infancy. Prior to his procedure, Travis was diagnosed with Lukemia and, despite chemotheraphy, Travis' body was losing the battle against the cancer. When it seemed that all was lost, Dr. Saranson, from the Saranson CEnter of Life Preservation, approached Travis with an unusual proposition that could help him overcome his illness and live a long and healthy life. However, there was one small catch: his head would be removed from his ailing body and then cryogenically frozen for an unspecified amount of time. Although this was Travis' only option to live the life he wanted, he and his parents made the decision to go through with this procedure. Granted, Travis had come to terms with his death, he didn't expect to wake up five short years later with a brand new body and instant fame. What was supposed to be the happiest time of his life, Travis learned that he is the second successful body transplant and must face a whirlwind of praise and condemnation. Furthermore, Travis had to face the stark reality that, during his cryogenic slumber, everyone he loves has moved on with their lives, leaving him in same exact place he left five years ago: repeating tenth grade and no one to share it with. Granted, Travis has found a new friend in Hatton finally re-connected with his best friend, Kyle,  he learns that his girlfriend, Cate, has not only moved on with her life, but is engaged to another man. Instead of letting her go, Travis embarks on a journey to not only get his life back, but also get the girl he loves back. The only problem with this scenario: what if he fails and refuses to let go? Readers will laugh and cry as the read about a second chance at life that isn't exactly the second chance we all want.

Critical Evaluation:
I am absolutely astounded with how funny and profound this story is! If readers have read John Corey Whaley's debut Where Things Come Back, this is definitely a different direction, but, nevertheless, a solid story that conveys what an amazing writer Whaley is. Travis Coates is an average teen who has a family that loves him and two best friends he can't imagine living without. Sadly, when he is diagnosed with Lukemia, the fight for his life only strengthened the bond between him and his friends and he refuses to go out without a fight. Travis is an amazing young man who loves fiercely and unconditionally. Although Travis' fight with cancer is only part of the story, readers will see just how difficult his transition is when his whole life came crashing down on him within a few months. Along with Travis' journey, readers will see what the last five years have done to his best friend (Kyle), his girlfriend (Cate), and his parents. I will admit that my heart sunk as the truth unfolded and all I wanted to do was dive into the pages and just hug Travis. In many ways, Travis was the one who agreed to have his head frozen, but, at the same time, he didn't take into consideration what the future may hold. Honestly, I think all of us would react the way Travis did because we just expect our loved ones to wait for us and make sure nothing will change. Well, sadly, for Travis, everything he knew didn't last the test of time and now it's time for him to make a new life. Despite the fact that he had his head removed, crycogenically frozen and transplanted onto a donor body, this is a coming-of-age tale where a young man must face five years of growing pains in a matter of months and, ultimately, learn to overcome his hardships by learning learn to let go and embrace the unknown.

Information about the Author:
According to his website:

JOHN ‘COREY’ WHALEY grew up in the small town of Springhill, Louisiana, where he learned to be sarcastic and to tell stories.  He has a B.A. in English from Louisiana Tech University, as well as an M.A in Secondary English Education. He started writing stories about aliens and underwater civilizations when he was around ten or eleven, but now writes realistic YA fiction (which sometimes includes zombies…). He taught public school for five years and spent much of that time daydreaming about being a full-time writer…and dodging his students’ crafty projectiles. He is terrible at most sports, but is an occasional kayaker and bongo player.  He is obsessed with movies, music, and traveling to new places. He is an incredibly picky eater and has never been punched in the face, though he has come quite close.  One time, when he was a kid, he had a curse put on him by a strange woman in the arcade section of a Wal-Mart.  His favorite word is defenestration.  His favorite color is green.  His favorite smell is books.  He currently lives in Los Angeles. 

Where Things Come Back is his first novel.

NOGGIN, his second novel, is out on April 8, 2014. 

Genre:
Teen Contemporary Fiction, Teen Humor

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & Up

Books Similar to Noggin:

• The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
• Every Day by David Leviathan
  

Awards & Recognition:
"Travis Coates has lost his head—literally.... [A] wonderfully original, character-driven second novel. Whaley has written a tour de force of imagination and empathy, creating a boy for whom past, present, and future come together in an implied invitation to readers to wonder about the very nature of being. A sui generis novel of ideas, Noggin demands much of its readers, but it offers them equally rich rewards." (Booklist, November 2013, *STARRED REVIEW)

"The madcap story of a boy who loses his head and finds it again. . . . Readers will recognize the Printz winner’s trademark lovable characterizations. . . . They’ll also recognize the poignantly rendered reflections on life, love, death and everything in between. . . . Whaley’s signature cadence and mad storytelling skillz are worth every page. A satisfyingly oddball Frankenstein-like tale of connectivity." (Kirkus Reviews, February 2014)

* "Travis Coates has his head surgically removed and cryogenically frozen after he dies (of leukemia at age 16)...five years after his death, technological advances allow doctors to attach his head to a donor body that's taller and more muscular than the original.... Travis's comic determination to turn back the hands of time...is poignant and heartbreaking. His status in limbo will resonate with teens who feel the same frustration at being treated like kids and told to act like adults." (Publishers Weekly, January 2014, *STARRED REVIEW)

"Whaley’s sweet and raunchy first-person narrative provides a thought-provoking look at the notions of self-awareness, the nature of identity, and the angst of a very special teen. The lively, conversational style will engage teen readers in search of an unusual, but relatable, character. At times hilarious and heart-wrenching, Noggin, with its eye-catching cover art, belongs in all library collections serving young adults." (VOYA, February 2014)

"Readers will find it easy to become invested in Travis's second coming-of age—brimming with humor, pathos, and angst—and root for him to make peace with his new life." (Horn Book Magazine, March/April 2014)

"Travis Coates, 16, is dying of cancer, so he accepts an offer from a cryogenic group to have his head removed and frozen with the hope that it would be attached to another body in the future and he could be reanimated. Five years later, he "wakes up" with a new body and is still 16. . . . The premise of the story is interesting. . . . The author does a good job of describing the emotions and reactions of all of the characters." (School Library Journal, March 2014)

* "What is it like to be frozen, à la Ted Williams, never believing you'll really come back--and then you do? That's the preposterous premise of John Corey Whaley's novel, conveyed with realistic emotions that keep his narrator, Travis, grounded, and the story credible--and also highly entertaining--for readers. . . . Whaley makes his hero's implausible situation absolutely convincing. The questions lurking behind Travis's sometimes rash actions plague all teenagers. . . . Ultimately this insightful story explores the challenges of intimate relationships and managing expectations. Whaley asks teens to think about the life they want to make for themselves." (Shelf Awareness, April 2014, *STARRED REVIEW*)

"NOGGIN is an incredibly imaginative way to examine the universal feeling of longing to return to the way things use to be…. Far from predictable, NOGGIN contains a few twists to keep readers guessing, but the real heart of the book is the hang up on the past--the feeling that if you could just remind someone you loved how things used to be, old feelings would quickly return. It also focuses on larger issues, like how to deal with the weight of other's expectations, and how to get a friend to be true to themselves. NOGGIN is a novel about trying for a future very different from the one you planned, and learning to be ok with the change. Funny and relatable, fans of Whaley's first novel WHERE THINGS COME BACK won't be disappointed." (Teenreads.com, April 2014)

“The premise of John Corey Whaley’s young adult novel “Noggin” – outlandish as it is – has such wonderful resonance. . . . Whaley has a gift for detail. . . . He can be very funny. . . . And, like [John] Green, he can choke you up.” (New York Times Book Review, May 2014)

"A graceful combination of raw heartbreak and biting wit (including plenty of head puns) guides Travis through [his] existential search for life's meaning and survival. . . . While the novel's premise may be straight out of Hollywood, Travis' voice could not be any truer. Fans of John Green will welcome this smart tearjerker." (BookPage, April/May 2014, Top Pick)

"We weren't sure what to expect from this one, but were pleasantly surprised by honest, funny and incredibly likeable Travis. As a walking miracle, he should be grateful, but he struggles with feeling out of step in his own life. Noggin is filled with loving relationships that remind us that even with the kindest people and the best intentions, life is complicated." (Justine Magazine, June/July 2014) 

Plot Summary:
Rafe is tired of labels. Every since he was a little boy, everyone knew he was different. In fact, when he came out, nobody was surprised and everyone accepted the fact that they live in a community with a gay kid. Rafe: the openly gay student. Rafe: he is gay and smart. Rafe: well liked and gay. Everywhere Rafe goes, he is never just Rafe, but the gay guy known as Rafe. In order to get away from the label that is always attached to his name, Rafe has transferred to an all boy's high school where no one knows his name and the fact that he is gay. It's not that he wants to be locked away with a bunch of privileged and gorgeous boys, he just wants to be seen as Seamus Rafael Goldberg, the ordinary teenager who loves to write and wants to be accepted for who is and not what he is. When Rafe arrived at Natick, he didn't know what to expect, including his roommate, Albie. Albie is not at all what Rafe is expecting (Albie is a pig and Rafe is a neat freak), but, despite everything, Albie and his friend, Toby, are actually not that bad and kinda cool. When Rafe is asked to join in a game of football, by Ben he is given a once in a lifetime opportunity: becoming a jock. As time goes, Rafe has become part of a pack and the more time he spends with his new friends, the more guilty he feels about leaving his best friend, Claire Olivia, behind. Although they didn't part on the best terms, Claire was his confidant and the only person he could be himself around. However, he has learned that his English teacher knows he is gay (thanks to his mother), but, luckily, he is willing to keep to keep Rafe's secret and actually the allow him to express himself in his weekly journals. Life should be absolutely perfect for Rafe, but, unfortunately, when Rafe starts falling for Ben, things are about to become more difficult and even more complicated. Then again, who said being a teen is easy, especially if that teens is harboring a secret that could pretty much change the dynamics of an entire school.

Critical Evaluation:
Rafe never wanted to be the poster child for gay rights for teens. In fact, when he came out to his parents, he knew they would accept him for who he is. What he didn't expect is that his parents would use his sexuality as their latest revolution. Clearly, Rafe's parents are liberals who want nothing but the utmost for their son, including acceptance and respect. In many ways, readers will admire his relationship with his parents because they are more concerned about nurturing his soul and protecting his rights. What his parents don't realize is that they are marginalizing Rafe. Rafe's goal in life is to live a life without labels and, for once, be a normal guy. In his mind, Natick was the ideal place to start over where nobody had to know he's gay and they would actually see him for who he is. However, even at Natick, he is still labeled as a jock and that is why him and Albie had a rocky start. What this story brings to light is the idea that we, as human beings, are separated and lumped together by our similarities that society has designed, which have some serious consequences. For Rafe, being the openly gay student stunted his abilities to be amongst his own peers; everybody knew that it's not okay to bully the gay kid, but it doesn't mean they have to like him. At Natick, everyone knows that being a jock means you are automatically what Claire and Rafe call an FBIT (Frat Boy in Training), which we learn from Ben, is not true. Konigsberg does an amazing job juxtaposing Rafe and Ben because they are both sick of social constructs and want to be recognized for who they are and not what they are. Although Ben is straight, the admiration they have for one another is genuine and that is why their friendships works. However, with every friendship, there has to be an understanding  that honesty is just as integral as respect. Openly Straight is an amazing tale of one guy who wanted nothing more than to "normal" and embarked on a journey where he not only learned about himself, but how to truthful to himself and others.

Information about the Author:
According to his website:

Bill lives in just outside of Phoenix with his longtime partner, Chuck. They have an Australian Labradoodle named Mabel, who completes them. She also can jump very high and head a ball like a champion soccer player.

Bill is now a full-time writer of fiction, which is his dream job. Except when it makes him crazy and impossible to live with, which is about 36 percent of the time.

Before Bill was a fiction writer (and long before he ever referred to himself in the third person), he was a sports writer. As a sports writer and editor for The Associated Press from 2005-08, he covered the New York Mets and his weekly fantasy baseball column appeared in newspapers across the country, from the New York Daily News to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. In May of 2001, while working for ESPN.com, he came out on the front page of the website in an article entitled “Sports World Still a Struggle for Gays.” That article won him a GLAAD Media Award the following year.

Since then, he has spoken at numerous venues across the country on what it’s like to be a gay person in the world of sports. He has written for The New York Times, New York Daily News, North Jersey Herald and News and Denver Post, to name a few. His work has also appeared in Out Magazine. In 2011, his coming out was named the #64 moment in gay sports history by the website Outsports.com. His story was included as a chapter in the book “Jocks 2: Coming Out to Play” by Dan Woog.

Genre:
Teen LBGTQ Fiction, Teen Contemporary Fiction, Teen Humor, Teen Sports Lit

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 10 & up

Books Similar to Openly Straight:

•  Freak Show by James St. James
•  The Geography Club by Brett Hartinger

Awards & Recognition:
Positive Reviews from:

• Booklist
• The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
• Library Journal

Plot Summary:
Leo Caraway had a bright future ahead of him. He got into Harvard will a full-ride, President of the Young Republicans Club, and he was going places. However, beneath the straight-laced and hard-working exterior, is a an animal inside that he inherited from his biological father: Marion X. McMurphy. After years of suppressing McMurphy, he is on the verge of melt down when his best friend, Melinda, asked him to tutor, Owen, the the "smartest" and gayest guy in school. Granted, Owen should not need tutoring, but Leo couldn't say no to Melinda who was a punk rock force to be reckoned with and best friend. Leo and Melinda have known each all of their lives; in fact, their father's used to work together until Melinda's father suddenly died of a heart attack. Although Melinda lost her father at a young age, Leo could never say no to her because he had a mother and father who loved him very much, even if Leo's father is his adopted father. During the math final exam, Leo noticed Owen struggling during his test and, as much as it aggravated him that Owen didn't know how to solve the problems they had been studying, he decided to say something to Owen during the test and was then accused of cheating. What should have been a simple reprimand, and the fact that he wasn't going to allow his homophobic principal use him to kick Owen out of school, Leo thought everything would be okay. Unfortunately, his decision to stand up for someone who was about to get railroaded by the school principal put his future at Harvard in jeopardy. Not willing to except this fate, Leo decided to do the thing he has been dreading all his life: contact his father, Marion X. McMurphy (aka. King Maggot) the lead singer of Purge, and ask him for money. Desperate times called for desperate measures and Leo is now a roadie for Purge. However, when Leo meets his father for the first time, he saw someone completely different than what he saw Purge's website. Is it possible that King Maggot may not be the wild beast that everyone adores? Seriously? Who would have thought that the President of the Young Republicans Club is actually Prince Maggot?

Critical Evaluation:
O-M-G! I thought this story was hilarious! Although this story wasn't as "hard-core" as I wanted it to be, Korman's wit is not only quick, but the dialogue he uses really bring the characters to life. In this story, a preppy guy not only learns he has the blood of the "Punk Rock Elvis" in his veins, he actually has the audacity to become a roadie to get money from the father he never knew. Honestly, if I learned that my father was this underground punk rock idol, I would be tickled pink! However, there is much more going on then we think because Leo's conception wasn't exactly planned and the fact that his mother was ashamed to tell him about his father makes readers crave for more. Korman's story takes readers on a fun ride where a uptight teenager learns a lot about people and that sometimes we cannot judge people based on how the look (aka. Melinda and Maggot). Furthermore, it's the people who we assume to be greatest and the most normal that we should be worried about because if one small thing goes out of place, they are waiting in the shadows to strike. Billy Hammond, the narrator of this audiobook, provides pretty decent characterizations of all of the main characters; I was kinda hoping that Leo would have sounded a little more teenager-ish and Hammond could have put a little bit more energy into the moments where things go absolutely wrong.  I really did enjoy the musical interludes (although not very Punk-like) between chapters and the SOUND EFFECTS! I have never, ever heard sound effects (i.e.,noises to convey a PDA, internet discussion board, and phone calls). This was probably the most entertaining part of the audiobook because it informs readers that they are actually making progress. The audiobook is five CD's and they go by pretty quick (I got through one whole disc in thirty minutes). Born to Rock is a fun book to read, or listen, to so if you want to see, or hear, about Leo's summer, get ready for a shock that no one saw coming!

Information about the Author:
According to Gordon Korman's website:

Gordon Korman was born October 23, 1963 in Montreal, Quebec in Canada. He wrote his first book, This Can't be Happening at Macdonald Hall when he was 12 years old for a coach who suddenly found himself teaching 7th grade English … he later took that episode and created a book out of it, as well, in the Sixth Grade Nickname Game, where Mr. Huge was based on that 7th grade teacher.

His first book found a home with Scholastic, who also published his next 20 or so books, including six more Bruno and Boots titles, and several award winning young adult titles, among them my personal favorite, Son of Interflux. Scholastic still publishes many of Gordon's titles, though Hyperion Press is also now printing some of Gordon's stories.

Gordon eventually made one of his homes in New York City, where he studied film and film writing. While in New York, he also met his future wife, and they eventually married -- they now have three children. He now lives on Long Island, outside of New York City, has approximately 70 books to his credit, and is currently contracted for several more.

Genre:
Teen Audiobooks

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up
 

Books Similar to Born to Rock:

• Heavy Metal and You by Christopher Krovatin
• Debbie Harry Sings in French by Meagan Brothers
  

Plot Summary:
Asuka is the epitome of manliness. Not only is he captain of the Kendo team, he is also the best in Judo and he has the highest grades in school. He is quiet and all of the girls want him, which makes all the guys want to be him. However, what they don't know is that deep inside, hidden away from everyone, is an Otomen: a man who likes lovely things. When Asuka is not around a girl he likes, he's fine, but, when he met Ryou, he lost all restraint and is cannot help but cook, sew, read Shojo Manga, and think about love. Just when things could not get anymore complicated, he befriends Tachibana who has taken quite an interest in Azuka and Ryou. What Asuka and Ryou don't realize, is that Tachibana is hiding a secret as well. Asuka's biggest fear is being rejected by Ryou so he tries to hide his "girly" side, but, ironically, Ryou is not a typical girl. In fact, Ryou cannot cook, sew, or be girly because he father has not shown her how to be a girl. For Tachibana, he knows that Ryou is Asuka's opposite, which makes his plans a lot more exciting. Throughout this story, there are twists and turns that will bring Asuka and Ryou together, but, at the same time, tear them apart.

Critical Evaluation:
The manga is just too cute beyond words. I think it's absolutely perfect for teens simply because it deals with gender stereotypes in a rather hilarious way. We live in a world where those stereotypes are shifting, which makes this story incredibly enjoyable. Asuka may be a "manly" man on the outside, but he is ashamed of the fact that he likes cute things. I think what I find refreshing about Asuka is that he is learning that its okay to be himself around those he cares for because, as far as the reader knows, he hasn't been given the opportunity since his parents divorced (his father decided to live his life as a woman; thus, forcing his mother to raise him as a  super masculine boy). For Asuka, he fears that liking things such as stuffed animals and sweets will eventually lead to him being being rejected because men aren't supposed to like "girly" things. For Ryou, the same exact thing is happening to her because her father has no idea how to teach her to be a traditional woman since her mother passed. Furthermore, when he meets Asuka for the first time, he flips out because Asuka knows how to cook and clean. Eventually, Ryou's father comes to terms with this since his own daughter is like his own son, which conveys how ridiculous the adults in this story are. We have two characters here who are clueless about being men and women, but what's re-assuring is that they can teach one another about themselves. Honestly, this is a very sweet story about two teens who need one another in ways that we take for granted. Personally, I love it when my boyfriend makes me breakfast and selects my lotions from Bath & Body Works. Does that make him less of a man? Heck no! Asuka and Ryou will learn that its okay to do things that are beyond the traditional gender roles because it we were all the same then life would be boring!


Information about the Author:
According to Wikipedia:

Aya Kanno (菅野文 Kanno Aya^?, born 30 January 1980 in Tokyo, Japan) is a Japanese shōjo manga artist. She is the former assistant of manga artist Masashi Asaki of Psychometrer Eiji fame. Her debut was in the January 2001 issue of Hana to Yume with Soul Rescue. Thus far, her work has only been serialized in Hakusensha's shōjo manga anthologies: Hana to Yume, The Hana to Yume, Hana to Yume Plus, and now primarily in Bessatsu Hana to Yume, in which her latest work, Otomen, is currently running. Also, she has completed Kokoro ni Hana wo.

Genre:

Teen Romance Manga

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 8 & up

Books Similar to Otomen:

• Ouran High School Host Club by Bisco Hatori
• Skip Beat by Yoshiki Nakamura
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com
Publisher's Weekly
An otomen as defined by this book is [a] male who has feminine hobbies, skills, or way of thinking. Asuka, the title otomen of this well-drawn comedy, secretly reads shojo manga, makes stuffed animals and prefers caramel macchiatos to coffee. Forbidden by his mother from girlish behavior after his transvestite father abandoned the family, Asuka takes on a very masculine public character. He is nationally ranked at judo, karate and kendo. Asukas tragedy is somehow hilarious. He falls for Ryo, the nongirly daughter of a manly martial arts instructor who finds Asuka unacceptable as a friend, let alone a potential suitor: Men dont go in the kitchen! he bellows. The strange deus ex machina character Junta acts as a catalyst to bring Asuka and Ryo together while enjoying Asukas elaborate bento lunches. The over-the-top gender stereotyping is ham-handed at times, but reveals interesting insight into what the Japanese consider the most manly and most girly extremes. The strong artwork carries the comedy premise further than the script could alone, and the manga-within-a-manga, Love Chick, is a hilariously accurate parody of typical shojo. Kannos other manga in translation include the sci-fi series Blank Slate and angel comedy Soul Rescue. (Feb.) 

Plot Summary:
Kylie is an overachiever. Not only is she going to NYU on scholarship, she is the Valedictorian of Freiburg Academy. Although Kylie is the smartest girl in school, she is also a loner and an outcast. Unlike her Freiburg peers, Kylie is not rich and is there on scholarship, which makes sets her apart from everyone else. Max is the exact opposite of of Kylie. Not only is he super popular, but rich and gorgeous. Will, on the other hand, is unbelievably rich, but an outcast like Kylie who isn't shy to express who he is much to the chagrin of the school principal and his parents. Lily, Kylie's nemesis, is not only smart, but she is also rich and beautiful and Max's girlfriend. Kylie's goal in life is to be a writer because, through her characters, she can fully express who she is and nothing will stop her from achieving her dream. However, when Mistress Murphy announces one last assignment before graduation, Kylie's is extremely unhappy with this paper; it's not that it's difficult, her task is team up with another classmate who just happens to be Max. Mortified, and terrified, Kylie just wants to get this over with so she can get out of La Jolla and to New York so she can finally live the life she has always wanted. The only problem is that she has to somehow get Max to meet with her so she can complete their assignment. Surprisingly, this meeting will be the weirdest and the craziest ride of her life. When her laptop is stolen, Kylie does the dumbest thing she could have ever done: chase after the thief. However, she isn't the only one with bad judgment since Max decides to help her out. What they don't realize is that they are about to ruin the plans of some serious thieves. Just when things couldn't get worse, Max and Kylie are left, alone, in Ensenada and all they can really do is talk and Kylie is not about to let this gorgeous, rich boy tell her about how his life is difficult when her own is about to implode if she doesn't get home quick. The irony of it all: spending time with each other turns out to be the best thing that has ever happened to both of them.

Critical Evaluation:
I gotta admit, this book was hilarious, heart-breaking, and absolutely wonderful all at the same time. When I picked up this book and, by looking at the cover, I was expecting something light and almost vapid. BOY WAS I WRONG! What makes this story brilliant is that it's told in alternating point of views, which not only adds to the depth of the story, but really conveys to readers that each these characters are the real deal. What I love about this story is that the main characters evolve wonderfully where they are not only able, and willing, to discuss their vulnerabilities, but their vices as well. Max, who seems like world's biggest jerk, is not at what Kylie thinks. Now Kylie, according to Max, is seriously one of the quirkiest persons he has ever met, which makes her unreal. When Kylie not only hijacks his BMW, she hijacks the van that was transporting all the electronics that were stolen, which not only makes her his hero, but someone to admire. When Max is able to walk into a room, and own it, Kylie's admiration for him skyrockets. These two characters have really underestimated each other and it's great to see how humbling this experience is to one another. As for Will, Lily, and Jake, their own stories compliment this story because not only are Max and Kylie struggling with their own insecurities, and fears, Will, Lilly, and Jake are also forced to re-evaluate their own characters as well. I will also admit that I loved, loved, loved, Jake's voice in this story. Jake has Asperger's Syndrome and he clings to Kylie because she knows about everything he likes and dislikes. As reader's dive further into the story, they will learn that their father is practically a ghost. When Kylie is unable to take of Jake for the day, their father is the one who has to step in. For Jake, he has to go out on a limb and give their dad a chance without throwing a tantrum. When he walks out of the house to find Kylie, not is the father given a major wake up call, Jake learns that he has to start communicating with others besides Kylie. As I said, along with the sheer comedy, the characters have some serious issues that will not only be revealed, but have to be dealt with. The ending is perfect and I was completely satisfied.

Information about the Author:
According to Amazon.com:

FROM WHAT I REMEMBER...is the second novel by Stacy Kramer and Valerie Thomas. Their first novel, KARMA BITES, was a middle grade novel published by Houghton Mifflin in 2010. Kramer is a former film producer and currently writes movies, tv and magazine articles. Her television credits include LIZZIE McGUIRE and LESS THAN PERFECT. Her film credits include LABOR PAINS (writer), JAWBREAKER (producer) and IGBY GOES DOWN (producer) among others. She's at work on a new movie for Twentieth Century Fox. In addition, she's written comic pieces for ELLE, MARIE CLAIRE and THE LONDON SUNDAY TIMES as well as a variety of other publications. She lives in Brooklyn, New York with her husband and three children.

[Valerie Thomas] is a writer of young adult novels. I spent many years working in the film industry as a producer and screenwriter until I escaped to the relative calm of the book world.

Genre:
Teen Contemporary Fiction, Teen Humor, Teen Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to From What I Remember:

• Spanking Shakespeare by Jake Wizner
• This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen 

 Awards & Recognition:

From Amazon.com:
"It's no surprise that both Kramer and Thomas share common roots in the film industry. Their love of the medium comes through not only in Kylie and Will's passion for quoting movies but also in the fast-paced action sequences that seem made for the big screen." - Kirkus Review

"...the quick pace and the hot-and-cold relationship between Kylie and Max will keep readers interested and rooting for them until the very end. Far from flawless, the characters seem real." -School Library Journal

"This has all the right ingredients for an engrossing summer read... Pack it in the beach bag along with sunscreen and shades, take a break from ACT prep, and put a Do Not Disturb sign on the worry side of your brain." -Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"This book made me laugh, cry and swoon; sometimes all at once." -YA Books Central

"From What I Remember's charm resides largely in its various characters' viewpoints, all teenagers capable of rather impressive empathy (when they choose to use it) and self-awareness. These are kids who are not only smart, they think. And they express themselves with clarity and style. " -Best Children's Books 

Plot Summary:
Reiko wants nothing more than to be an ordinary high school girl. However, Reiko has super powers that clearly show her peers, and family, is anything but ordinary. One day, Tachibana Ran barges into her classroom with a gun in hand and tells her that her life belongs to him. Translation: Ran wants Reiko to marry him. What makes Ran think he could do this to Reiko? Well, Ran is the heir to a the Tachibana empire and is worth millions of dollars. Reiko has no intention of marrying Ran and does everything she can to run away. Rather than chasing her all over the city, Ran makes a deal with Reiko: if Ran can catch Reiko within the next twenty-five hours, she will marry him. If he doesn't catch her, Reiko is free to go. What she doesn't plan on is that during these tumultuous twenty-five hours, she becomes victim to the people who want to assassinate Ran because of his high status and name. What the kidnappers and assassins don't know is that Reiko actually has a few tricks up of her sleeve...she is incredibly tough and flexible. Although the deadline passes, Reiko finds herself strangely attracted to Ran because he is the first person to like her for who she is rather than what she is not. What most people don't know about Reiko is that her heart was broken by a boy she though she loved; the reason why he didn't return her feelings is because she wasn't ordinary. However, Reiko and Ran are far from ordinary, which makes this pursuit hilarious and absolutely heart warming. 

Critical Evaluation:
I have read some pretty funny Shojo in my time and this one takes the cake so far. Not only is Ran outrageously crazy, he is so caring and loving that one cannot help but love him. As for Reiko, she is definitely not the traditional Shojo character who is looking for her prince charming, In fact, Reiko shuts out everyone because her heart was broken. I really, really admire her spirit and strength and that is what attracts Ran. Although Ran can have any girl in the world, he chose Reiko because she is extraordinary, which is what he needs. Although this story wasn't completed (it's only two volumes), readers can hope that when Ran is kidnapped, Reiko does what she can to rescue him. Along with the romance, the comedy is pure genius. I could not stop laughing simply because Takagi's dialouge is smart and quick. Although Ran has a tendency to be over dramatic, the tender moments are genuine and heart felt. I really, really wish there was more to this series, but I am looking forward to reading other series by Takagi-san. 

Information about the Author:
According to Baka Updates, Shigeyoshi Takagi was born on July 17 in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. She has a twin sister and has been writing manga since 2009.

 Genre:
Teen Shojo Manga

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Flower in a Storm:

•  Black Bird by Kanoko Sakurakoji

Plot Summary:
A group of Miss Teen Dream contestants crash land on a remote island, the adults are dead, very little food, a handful of water bottles, no showers, and no room service. Unfortunately, out of the 50 states, only 13 states made it alive and all of them have very different viewpoints on life, pageants, and their own self-perception. In order to make it off the island, the girls elect a leader, Miss Texas, who is not only the epitome of beauty queen, but harbors some secrets and behaviors that will literally save them from the evil clutches of a notorious dictator, MoMo Cha Cha. Although the girls may not agree on everything, they put aside those differences and use those strengths to literally build a community with their "real" talents (other than baton twirling, singing, and dancing). More importantly, their time on the island is just what they needed to find the answers to the age old question: "Who Am I?" With the help of a government conspiracy, a group of pirates, and self-sufficiency, Beauty Queens is an adventure of a lifetime.

Critical Evaluation:
Libba Bray has not only managed to create a very real life situation, she has done it in a way that is funny, exciting, and absolutely brilliant. Clearly, Bray is clearly making a point that not only exposes the ridiculous obsession with reality television, she also makes a very poignant argument that what being a "Beauty Queen" is a lot of hard work that can literally oppress the wants and needs of the young girl being waxed and polished to perfection.  Amongst the group of contestants is a cast of characters that make this story memorable simply because they all have one thing in common, which is to be happy and loved. Readers will be laughing their ways through this story, which they will appreciate. Moreover, the statements that are presented regarding society's view on beauty and teen girls, may leave some thinking that being "beautiful" is more than it seems. Teens will definitely value the dissenter, the liar, the tranny, the deaf girl, the dunce, the wild girl, the Lesbian, and the girl with 3 nipples because they are real people with very real needs, hopes, and dreams. Just when reality television couldn't get any better, Beauty Queens will have readers turning off the television.

Information about the Author:
Libba Bray was born in Alabama had lived most of her life in Texas. As the daughter of a Presbyterian minister, which she says " Yes, I am one of those dreaded P.K.s–Preacher's Kids. Be afraid. Be very afraid. At the age of eighteen, Libbra was in accident that required thirteen surgeries and she lost her eye in the process. However, like any pirate, she went on to college and graduated. She eventually met her husband, Barry Goldblatt, who is also her literary agent, and fell madly in love with him and decided she was going to spend the rest of her life with him. However, according to her website, "My husband and I were in love but totally broke, so we eloped and got married in Italy, where he was going on a business trip. We had to pull a guy off the street to be our witness. It was incredibly romantic. Florence is still one of my favorite cities in the world." 

According to Bray, "I'm one of those people who has to write. If I don't write, I feel itchy and depressed and cranky. So everybody's glad when I write and stop complaining already." Luckily for us, her desire for writing not only created the the Gemma Doyle Trilogy (A Great and Terrible Beauty, Rebel Angels, and Sweet Far Thing), but her novel, Going Bovine, won critical acclaim as well as the Michael L. Printz award for outstanding literature for young adults. Libra Bray has also stated that" [m]y favorite word is "redemption." I like both its meaning and the sound. My least favorite word is "maybe." "Maybe" is almost always a "no" drawn out in cruel fashion [an] [m]y three worst habits are overeating, self-doubt, and the frequent use of the "f" word."Beauty Queens is her latest novel and now resides in New York City with her husband and son.   

Genre:
Teen Adventure, Teen Humor, Teen Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up


Books Similar to Beauty Queens:

• Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Alexie Sherman

Awards & Recognition: 

• Starred Review in Booklist (5/15/11)
• Starred Review in School Library Journal (7/1/11)
  

Plot Summary:
Shakespeare Shapiro has endured years of his humiliation starting with his name. His parents are crazy, they drink too much, and are in denial about a lot of things. For Shakespeare, not only is younger brother, Gandhi, cooler than he is, Shakespeare has yet to go on a date with a girl, let alone try to kiss her and than have sex with her. While writing his final project (his memoir), Shakespeare is finally coming to terms with his crush on Celeste and actually works up the nerve to ask her out. Just when everything seemed to be great, reality sets in ans Shakespeare starts to realize that people are not exactly what they seem. While balancing his relationships with his two best friends, who keep "hooking up," Shakespeare's world is turned upside down when people start to notice him; moreover, he starts connecting with Charlotte and learns that his life isn't that crazy, nor is is that bad.

Critical Evaluation:
This book is beyond amazing. Not only is it hysterical, it is thought-provoking and intelligent. Not only do readers get inside the mind of an awkward teenager, this point of view will analyze a variety of problems that adults tend to forget or acknowledge. As an adult, this story took me all the way back to high school where my existence wasn't about working full-time, paying rent, and wanting to start a family...it was about figuring about what college I wanted to go to, what I was doing with my friends that weekend, and if I actually fit in with anyone. Not only is this story cathartic for some teens, it is also an inspirational story where the hero finally learns that it is okay to be who he is. Identity is a huge issue amongst teenagers and, our narrator, is a prime example of a lost teen. However, he embraced his qualities, including his name, and decided to focus on his talents and, in the end, it was his abilities that helped him succeed.

Information about the Author:
According to Random House, his publisher,  Jake Weizner said that :" [...] Shakespeare Shapiro had a lot to say, not just about his name, but also about his crazy parents, his maddeningly popular younger brother, his social ineptitude, and the overall catastrophe of his life. Much of what he said was depraved, disturbing, and utterly distasteful; but it was also really funny to me. And I guess it was funny to other people, too, because Spanking Shakespeare is set to hit the bookstores on September 25, 2007" (para. 2).  Jake Wizner, luckily, was not born on Hitler's birthday; in fact, he was actually born on Freud's birthday, which makes total sense when it came to creating Shakespeare Shapiro. Wentz states, in his personal biography, that his "parents wanted to name me Max, but my grandfather, a Holocaust refugee, strenuously objected, saying the name sounded too German.  My original birth certificate read Baby Boy Wizner" (para. 1). Jake Wentz spent the first ten years of his life living in a college dormitory since his mother was the dean of the college. Not only did he spend his early year outwitting adults twice his age, he explored the school, and had a terrible sleepwalking habit (there we a few times drunk college students would take him back to his dormitory). When it came time to go to college, Wentz attended Wesleyan University and took an English class that would change his life forever; when he turned in his first paper he was extremely proud of his B- and his classmate got an A (turns out this classmate happened to be the famous Lemony Snicket). After college, he moved to New Orleans where he became the "Phantom Bard" as he chronicled his life as a public school teacher in the Teach for America newsletter. Wentz currently works as a middle school teacher, in New York City, with his wife and children. 


Genre:
Teen Lit for Guys, Teen Humor

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Spanking Shakespeare:

• King Dork by Frank Portman
• Destroy All Cars by Blake Nelson
  

Awards & Recognition:

• Publisher's Weekly Starred Review 9/27/2007

Plot Summary:
Life for Shaun is pretty easy. In fact, it has been so easy that when he suddenly "bites the big one" he doesn't feel a thing. Although Shaun's soul is in the hands of our Creator, his body has been taken over by demon. As part of an elaborate plot, this demon, or "Kiriel," has observed and studied every aspect of Shaun's life from his family history, friends, personality, and mannerisms. After a millennium of tormenting souls, not having a physical form, or knowing what it's like to have five senses, Kiriel is just overjoyed and fascinated with his new "slightly used" teenage body. Once Kiriel/Shaun is able to have better control of his body, he makes the goal that most teenage boys make, which is to, for the lack of the better phrase, get laid. Kiriel is just obsessed with feeling good that he believe having sex is the ultimate feeling that makes a person human. However, Kiriel realizes, that sexual feelings don't carry the burden that disappointment, anger, hatred, and jealousy carry.

Critical Evaluation:
A.M. Jenkins has delivered a funny and smart story about a demon who takes a break from being an entity to becoming human. This demon does not know what it's like to be human and after experiencing, and witnessing, the tortured souls that he processes, he has become curious about them. Moreover, he is actually more intrigued by the poor choices humans make, even when they know it is bad (i.e., sin). Jenkins provides readers, especially those who struggle with humanity and religion, with an intelligent dialogue that convey the good, and the bad, of being a human. However, Kiriel didn't fully comprehend Shaun, as a person, and realized that the many people in his life make living worthwhile, especially Lane. The more Kiriel spends time amongst humans, the more he begins to understand the beauty in which "The Creator" had made them; thus, why he paid the price he did for going against the will of God. This books is truly wonderful, funny, and well written.

Information about the Author:
According to A.M. Jenkins' blog, she has literally had every job under the sun from teacher, writer, aerobics instructor, bookstore manager, and ice cream dipper. She has written several YA novels that including Damage, Out of Order, and Repossessed. Although she does not reveal a lot of her life on her blog (other than that she lives in Texas, divorced, has three kids, and a bunch of pets), Jenkins does admit that getting a degree in Liberal Arts can only go so far. According to Harper Collins: "A. M. Jenkins is the award-winning author of Damage, Beating heart: A Ghost Story, and the Printz Honor Book Repossessed, and lives in Benbrook, Texas, with three sons, two cats, and two dogs. Jenkins received the PEN/Phyllis Naylor Working Writer Fellowship for night road" (para. 1). 

Genre:
Teen Lit for Guys, Teen Humor


Reading/Interest Level:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Repossessed:

•  Deadline by Chris Crutcher
•  Godless by Pete Hautman

Awards/Recognition:

• Michael L. Printz Honor Book
• New York Public Library Books for the Teen Age
• IRA/CBC Young Adults’ Choice 
• ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults
• Golden Spur Award Honor Book (Texas)

Plot Summary:
Life for Arnold Spirit (aka.Junior), on the Spokane Indian Reservation, is not at all glamorous. Not only does he have a bunch of medical problems, alcoholic relatives, mediocore access to education, lives in a run down trailer, and is the number one target on every bullies list (even the adults), he is also very lonely except for his grandmother. Junior is not only embarrassed by the poverty that has enveloped his family, home, and community, he longs for something greater where he can forget about the problems at home and within himself. Thankfully, the one outlet Junior can rely on to to relieve all the frustration and anguish is drawing. Just when life cannot get anymore "exciting," Junior has been accepted into an all white school that will require him to leave the "Rez," which brings a lot of uproar from the community.  Moreover, when he falls in love/lust with Penelope (whose father is a huge racist), his life takes even more interesting twists than he expected. Of all people to be on a basketball team, Junior is chosen to take on a task that is close to impossible since he has no physical talent other than outrunning the bullies on the reservation.

Critical Evaluation:
Sherman Alexie is probably one the greatest, and well-known, Native American in the United States. Although known for his adult fiction books, Alexie has written a book/memoir for teens to convey that no matter who we are and where we come from, we always have the choice to better ourselves. This story is absolutely hysterical simply because Alexie takes a "sensitive" issue and provides another aspect how history always manages to repeat itself. Through the use of cartoon bubbles and witty dialogue, Alexie uses these tools to express non PC (politically incorrect) thoughts in manner that makes them almost ridiculous.  Also readers who are unfamiliar with the issues that have been plaguing the Native Americans such as poor housing, limited access to resources, the BIA (Bureau of Indian Affairs), and continued isolation of these people, will be humbled by this well written account of one Native American teen. This book is filled with tons of information that would be great for any teen book club and as part of any school curriculum, especially when students are learning about American History.

Information about the Author:
Sherman Alexie is Arnold Spirit (this novel is based on his life). According to his website, Alexie planned on becoming a doctor, but ended up giving that up since he kept fainting in Anatomy and enrolled in creative writing. Alexie excelled in writing and has written numerous award winning titles such as: Lone Ranger and Tonto Fist Fight in Heaven and Reservation Blues.  In fact, Lone Ranger and Tonto Fist Fight in Heaven, was turned into a movie, entitled Smoke Signals, that one acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival. Alexie has also received many awards for his poetry and he is actually an accomplished public speaker, director, and comedian. In 2010, he won the Faulkner Award for Fiction (War Dances), and his first young adult novel, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, won the National Book Award in 2007 and the audiobook of this titled won the Odyssey Award in 2009. Alexie continues to make a difference by encouraging dialogue between the many ethnic groups that make up this country.
  
Genre:
Teen Lit for Guyd, Teen Humor



Reading/Interest Level:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian:

• American Born Chinese by Gene Yuen Lang
• A Step from Heaven by An Na

Awards/Recognition:

• Please see this website

Plot Summary:
Just when we all though high school was rough, try being a poor person attending a rich academy where the guys and girls have way too much time on their hands. Haruhi, a scholarship student, attends Ouran High School Academy in hopes of achieving  a top knotch education. However, Haruhi has trouble fitting in since she does not care for frivolity, fashion, or being popular. One day, while trying to find a quiet place to stumbles upon the Music Room, which was supposedly abandoned, but is actually teh headquarters of the Ouran High School Host Club, where six gorgeous boys are paid to entertain the ladies of the school. The moment Haruhi realizes that she is in the wrong place, the boys unleash their charm, which, leads to a misunderstanding and an expensive accident; while tryin to escape, Haruhi breaks a very expensive vase and is in debt to the Host Club. In order to pay her debt off, she is forced to become their errand dog. Unfortunately, when the boys find out she is actually a girl, who makes a rather cute boy, she is now the newest host in the Ouran High School Host Club. 'Tweens will this story since it is packed with humor, love, outrageous schemes, and wonderful lessons that make all of us unique and special.

Genre:
Teen Humor Manga, Teen Romance Manga

Book Similar to Ouran High School Host Club:

• Gentleman's Alliance
• Tsubasa 
• Mamotte! Lollipop

Rating/Interest Level: 
Grades 8 &up