Kazumi Reads

Plot Summary:
It's another school year for Park and all wants is to remain under the radar. However, when Eleanor boarded the bus, his life was about to change. Eleanor, the big girl with crazy red hair, is not only the new kid, but the prime target for any bully, especially Tina and Steve. As Eleanor searched for a seat, no one was willing to give her one. Out of frustration, and possibly pity, Park let her sit to next to him. However, he was far from a gentlemen because, before offering her a seat, he cursed at her and looked away. Life for Eleanor is very similar to the incident on the bus. After moving to a new home, Eleanor has to endure her stepfather (whom she does not get along with) and four younger siblings. Eleanor has never had her own room and all she has to her name are a few items that managed to make the move. Life was miserable and the only way should could control herself is to bury herself in books and music. Park really didn't mean to be cruel to Eleanor. In fact, Park has his own issues such as being bi-racial, having a younger brother who is taller than he is, and his uber macho father who can't seem to let Park's oddities alone. Park has always felt he could never fit in so he put up with the ignorant remarks and the stereotypes. Although he yelled at Eleanor, the first time they met, they have been able to form an understanding through comic books, mixed tapes, and short, quiet conversations, which ultimately to the inevitable: falling in love. However, Eleanor doesn't know how to explain to Park how terrible her home life is and that their relationship has to remain a secret. For Park, it's only a matter of time before he explodes because he wants more than anything to protect Eleanor. Despite all of the problems, Eleanor and Park have discovered what it means to be alive and themselves when they are together. This is story of first love, but like Romeo and Juliet, there is an immense amount of heartache as well. 

Critical Evaluation:
Rainbow Rowell has written a romance that everyone has experienced. Not only is this story directed at teens, adults will fall in love with it as well simply because we were all teenagers once. Eleanor & Park are average teens who have their own share of problems, but, all of those memories and pain disappears when they are together. Park admits to Eleanor that he needs her because she is the only person who understands him. For Eleanor, Park is the escape she needs because he is the only person who sees beyond her size and hair color. However, Park has what Eleanor does not, which is a stable home life. Because of Eleanor's abusive stepfather and abused mother, she cannot have luxuries such as comic books, music, and even a toothbrush. Although this is none of her fault, she cannot be honest with Park because she is ashamed of her situation. Granted, she loves her siblings more than anything, she wants nothing more but to get away from it all and Park gives her that chance by letting her live in his world (even if it's for a moment or two). I fell in love Park,myself, when he ended up beating up Steve for insulting Eleanor; it's not every day your boyfriend risks suspension, a swollen eye, and a broken nose to defend your honor. It was at that point that Eleanor realized that someone as cool as Park could love her and maybe, just maybe, that life would give her a break. Sadly, life is never that simple, especially when the people that were supposed to take of her are abusive,submissive, and dismissive. I wanted nothing than to crawl into this book and hold onto Eleanor and her siblings because all of them deserved so much more and, unfortunately, children do not get to chose their parents. This is the type of book where readers will want curl up on my couch and devour it because everything in this story is real; teens and adults know what it's liked to be love, to be bullied, to feel scared, and to feel that things seem hopeless. However, this story also shows what it's like to be crazy happy. This books has managed to transform me into the 16 year old girl I was knew and it was because of her that I feel that Eleanor and Park will have the happy ending that we all dream of. 

Information about the Author:
According to her website:

Rainbow Rowell writes books.
Sometimes she writes about adults (Attachments and Landline).

Sometimes she writes about teenagers (Eleanor & Park and Fangirl).

But she always writes about people who talk a lot. And people who feel like they’re screwing up. And people who fall in love.

When she’s not writing, Rainbow is reading comic books, planning Disney World trips and arguing about things that don’t really matter in the big scheme of things.

She lives in Nebraska with her husband and two sons.

Genre:
Teen Contemporary Fiction, Teen Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 10 & up

Books Similar to Eleanor & Park:

• If Your Come Softly by Jaqueline Woodson
• The Fault in Our Stars by John Green 
• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chobsky
  

Awards & Recognition:
According to Amazon.com:


“Funny, hopeful, foulmouthed, sexy, and tear-jerking, this winning romance will captivate teen and adult readers alike.”—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Eleanor & Park is a breathless, achingly good read about love and outsiders.”
—Stephanie Perkins, author of Anna and the French Kiss and Lola and the Boy Next Door

“The pure, fear-laced, yet steadily maturing relationship Eleanor and Park develop is urgent and breathtaking and, of course, heartbreaking, too.”—Booklist (starred review)

“Sweet, gritty, and affecting . . . Rainbow Rowell has written an unforgettable story about two misfits in love. This debut will find its way into your heart and stay there.”
--Courtney Summers, author of This Is Not a Test and Cracked Up to Be

“Rowell keeps things surprising, and the solution maintains the novel’s delicate balance of light and dark.” –Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“In her rare and surprising exploration of young misfit love, Rowell shows us the beauty in the broken.”—Stewart Lewis, author of You Have Seven Messages

Plot Summary:
He just died and he doesn't know where he is. The last thing he remembers is drowning and being pummeled by waves and the cracking of his bones. He remembers the pain, the despair, and the loneliness. When he wakes up, he is in a place that is strangely familiar, but everything is not what it seems. It hurts to breathe and it hurts to open his eyes, but, somehow, he is able to see, hear, and feel. He's dead, but he's not. He is convinced he is in his own personal hell because the home he once lived in London appears before his eyes. With every step, his body shutters and no matter how tired or painful it may be, it gets better little by little. In fact, when the memories come flooding back, the house seems to know and things start to change. First, he remembers what its like to be aware. When he realizes that he is covered in metallic bandages, he scrambles for clothing. Next, he remembers thirst and looks for water. When he his thirst is quenched, he realizes that he is hungry Why would a dead person be thirsty or hungry? As he remembers what its like to feel, he finally remembers his name: Seth. Seth believes he doomed to spend an eternity in a home that filled with many painful memories. However, Seth wants to know why he is here and what he is supposed to do. Among the weeds and dust, there has to be a reason why he is back in this moment in time. As he ventures out into his old neighborhood, more memories appear he tries, desperately, to put everything together to answer the most important question: why is the world covered in dust, soot, and ash?

Critical Evaluation:
I did not expect this story to turn out the way it did. In fact, I was a little confused as to the direction this story was going, but, once all of the answers to the many questions had been revealed, I was seriously hooked. Despite the slow beginning, Patrick Ness has written a story that gives Science Fiction a new meaning and purpose. This story is about a guy who made a mistake, as a child, and has been suffering from the consequences ever since. Not to mention, he is also dealing with his own sexuality, which no one (not even his parents and friends) can help him cope with. After the incident with his younger brother Owen, Seth has been paying the price, which will anger readers: his mother is absolutely awful and his father is emotionally crippled so it's no wonder why Seth cannot confide in his own flesh and blood. In between surviving the wasteland, his memories of the past get stronger and stronger, and, when the unthinkable occurs, Seth starts to question everything. As I said earlier, I did not expect this heart-wrenching story to be set in an alternate reality because when one thinks of Science Fiction, we are anticipating epic space battles and total destruction. However, I am seriously impressed with Ness' ability to write a very real and very human story where the setting and time doesn't overshadow the focus of the story. Once I realized that Seth isn't really in his own personal hell, I couldn't wait to find out why he and his companions were the only ones aware. Although this "realization" is very Matrix-esque, Seth, for once in his life, has the ability to prove that he is not the depressed teenager who believed he lost everything meaningful and precious, but a leader who is not only brave, but powerful at the same time. The action sequences will set pulses racing and the bonds that he forms with Regine and Tomasz will resonate with readers. Seth's character transformation is remarkable and the ending will either anger or satisfy readers immensely.   

Information about the Author:
According to the FAQ section of his website:

Who are you?
I’m Patrick Ness, born at the stroke of midnight on the new millennium, suckled by wolves (well, a wolf and an open-minded Weimaraner), and schooled by Jesuit mermaids. I’m from America, live in England, and am a blending of both (with a firm genetic trunk of Norwegian. It’s why I’m tall and freckly. Skol!). I’ve had lots of jobs but won’t bore you with the usual wacky list, though I did teach creative writing at Oxford University for three years. Which wasn’t even remotely wacky. At all. Currently, I write books, but that’s probably why you’re here.

What have you written?
I’ve written six books which you can read more about on the Books Page. The Chaos Walking trilogy and A Monster Calls for young adults, plus a novel for adults called The Crash of Hennington and a short story collection for adults called Topics About Which I Know Nothing. More to come, more to come.

What else have you written?
Short stories, journalism, radio plays, screenplays. It’s good to flex the writing muscles, and yep, that’s a tip. Check out the Writing Page for more.

What prizes have you won?
Right, it’s horrible of me to even pretend that you’d actually ask that, so I apologise profusely. Nevertheless, people do actually occasionally want to know, so here’s the current list:
The Knife of Never Letting Go won the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize, the Booktrust Teenage Prize, and the James Tiptree Memorial Prize. It was also shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal.

The Ask and the Answer won the Costa Children’s Book of the Year Prize and was also shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal and the Booktrust Teenage Prize.

Monsters of Men won the Carnegie Medal and was shortlisted for the Arthur C Clarke Award and the Galaxy National Book Award.

A Monster Calls won the Galaxy National Book Award and is currently (Jan 2012) shortlisted for the RedHouse Book Award.
Again, I’m sorry.
 

Genre:
Teen Contemporary Fiction


Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 10 & up

Books Similar to More Than This:

• Every Day by David Levithan
• Across the Universe by Beth Revis
• Boy 21 by Matthew Quick
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com

Ness brilliantly plays with contrasts: life and death, privacy and exposure, guilt and innocence. In characteristic style, the author of the Chaos Walking trilogy delves into the stuff of nightmares for an existential exploration of the human psyche.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Books are often described as ‘mind-blowing,’ but this is one of the few books in which, while reading it, I have exclaimed aloud, ‘Oh. My. God.’ on multiple occasions. I won’t tell you anything else about it. Just read it.
—John Green

It is a gorgeous story with masterful pacing and unforgettable passages.
—The Boston Globe

Plot Summary:
It's 1926 and Evie is among the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, New York. After being sent to live with Uncle Will, after revealing a dirty secret that could easily put her father's business in jeopardy, Evie is quire excited since she never fit in with other guys and gals of Zenith, Ohio. What people don't understand is that Evie has a gift and, when under the influence of Giggle Water, this gift comes to life. Although she refuses to say how she knew the terrible secret, she know in heart that what she was the truth. When she arrived in Manhattan, Evie is smitten and convinced that this is where she is meant to be. However, there are a few things she didn't anticipate was getting mugged and she would be living in a broken down complex near a  museum nickanmed the Museum of Creepy Crawlies. Evie never really understood what her uncle did for a living and, now, she learns that her uncle is a bit of an expert when it comes to legends, folklore, and the occult. After meeting his assistant, Jericho, Evie is doesn't exactly get the warm and fuzzy vibe from her uncle and assistant, but Evie could care less because she is amongst the glitz and the glam and ready to have the time of her life (at least for the next four months). However, what Evie doesn't realize is the dark side of New York embroiled in scandal, mystery, and horrors. While Evie explores the wonders of New York City, a serial killer is loose and there is nothing no can do to stop him. The thing is, this killer is not of this world and the police has no idea where to start. When the first body shows, NYPD enlists the help of Uncle Will and Evie insists on going. Well, much to her dismay, this murder is not only gruesome, but Evie inadvertently channels her power to see something that only lives in nightmares. As for Memphis, not only is he running from his special gift, he wants nothing more than to escape the life of racketeering and find peace. However, when he meets Theta in at the Hotsy Totsy, they learn that there are actually others who have been having the same nightmare, which not only terrifying, but sends a warning that something evil is on its way and Evie knows it's time for her to start using her powers for something good or people may die.  

Critical Evaluation:
This is probably one of the best books I have read in my entire my life. Not only is the story captivating, readers will stay up all day and all night to see what unfolds. Libba Bray is an artist when it comes to storytelling and this is, in my honest opinion, her best work yet. Although the book is rather intimidating in size, I couldn't imagine the story without all of the intricate details since it is the little details that shed light on the Diviners and the evil they are about to encounter. By setting the story in the height of the Roaring 20s is absolutely brilliant. This era is known for it's rebellion and decadence, but also for it's violence and oppression. The whole John Hobbes story arc is perfectly set amongst all of the craziness of the time, especially since it's during and after the height of the Spiritualism movement (i.e., the Fox sisters). Furthermore, Bray's description of Manhattan in 1926 is absolutely alluring because of Evie. Evie experiences tremendous growth throughout the book and I am so excited about the sequel. In the beginning, Evie was bored and discontent with the simple life in Zenith, Ohio. Furthermore, besides her boredom, Evie never felt like she fit because of her powers. In many respects, Evie's powers are what fueled her passion and desire to go to New York simply because New York may give her what she needs to not feel ostracized. Well, New York not only did that, but gave her the opportunity to use her gifts for good and not as the usual parlor trick. Granted, Evie has a tendency to be selfish, inconsiderate, and rude, she learns that with this power comes a great responsibility, especially now, that she outed herself as a Diviner.

There is a whole slew of supporting characters who not only special powers like Evie, but are suffering from their own personal demons that will bring all of them together. Memphis, for example, used to be able to heal people until he used his power to try and save his mother, which resulted in disaster. Furthermore, his younger brother, Isaiah, has the gift of sight, and it's his abilities that are foretelling the future for the Diviners to unite.  Theta, who was abused all her life, found out she has the power to kill and was saved by Henry, who also has the ability to walk into dreams. Sam, who has the ability to disappear when desired, is in search of his mother who mysteriously disappeared and pronounced dead, but, consequently, was not since he received a postcard with his mother's handwriting. Jericho, who is a result of an experiment that left him as the lone survivor, was taken in by Will as an act of mercy and he has been nothing but loyal to Will ever since. Along with all of the young characters, are adult characters such as Addie and Lillian (the sage-like characters) who revel to readers dark events, Uncle Will, Miss Walker, Aunt Octavia, and Blind Bill also know more then they are letting on, which will more than likely reveal themselves in the sequel because after Naughty John, they are about to encounter an evil like no others. Like most stories, it is the youth that will have the fight the events of the past and we can only hope that the Diviners can hone and utilize their abilities to save the world, yet again.

Amongst the chaos of a serial killer, there is definitely a romantic story arc that involve unrequited and forbidden love. For Memphis, a young black man, falls for Theta, a young white woman. Mabel, Evie's best friend, is in love with Jericho, but is falling for Evie. Sam, who robbed Evie in the beginning of the book, has strong feelings for Evie, but Evie is on shaky ground over her feelings for Jericho. There's Uncle Will who is still reeling over lost love and even Naughty John was loved. Despite feeling like outcasts, the Diviners are struggling more than before because they now have so much more to lose, which will either motivate them  to fight or force them to run. As a reader, it is heartbreaking to read about the difficult pasts of the Diviners, but if there is a common thread, they all know what its like to lose someone they loved dearly, but found the will to love again. I am really, really, really excited about the sequel and I will be waiting on pins and needles until then. Now, I must go to an independent book shop and purchase this book because it is worthy of a place on my bookshelf.

Information about the Author:
According to her website:

Libba Bray is the New York Times bestselling author of The Gemma Doyle trilogy (A Great and Terrible Beauty, Rebel Angels, The Sweet Far Thing); the Michael L. Printz Award-winning Going Bovine; Beauty Queens, an L.A. Times Book Prize finalist; and The Diviners series. She is originally from Texas but makes her home in Brooklyn, NY, with her husband, son, and two sociopathic cats.  You can find her at…oh, wait. You already did. Nevermind—you are a genius!

Genre:
Teen Mysteries, Teen Fantasy

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up
 

Books Similar to The Diviners:

• Bright Young Things by Anne Godbersen
• The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com

(Kirkus Reviews, starred review)

(School Library Journal, starred review)

"The Diviners delivers an addictive and terrifying story of young New Yorkers investigating a rash of occult-based murders. Bray sustains a breathless energy throughout this ambitious series-starter, deftly evoking the exuberance of 1920s city life and the evil lurking beneath it." (Entertainment Weekly)

(The Horn Book)

Plot Summary:
A new epidemic has stricken the world and its victims are the youth. Teens are committing suicide at alarming rates and parents, and lawmakers, are at a loss. However, with the establishment of The Program, teens are being rehabilitated and cured. The problem with this program, for Sloane and James, is that The Program doesn't just cure victims, but erase their memories. After losing her brother, Brady, Sloane is trying to keep it together. With the help of her boyfriend, James, she is doing her best to not show any emotion and that everything is all right. However, when she learns that her best friend, Lacey, has been released from the Program, Sloane is on the verge of a breakdown. Furthermore, Miller, who is also a good friend, and boyfriend to Lacey, is devastated that Lacey does not remember him and that leads to another tragedy that not only sends Sloane on a downward spiral, but James falls further. All this time, James has been Lacey's rock and lifeline. If James falls apart, she and James will not only be picked and sent to The Program, but their memories will be erased and all of the precious memories they have made will be lost forever.


Critical Evaluation:
This is first, and foremost, a story of love set in a time of chaos and tragedy. Although this topic may not be the best setting for most romances, this is definitely one of those stories that will stick with readers until the end. Sloane is an extremely brave young woman who is faced with a dilemma that most adults can barely handle. Not only did she witness her brother's death, she is forced to watch James fall apart in front of her eyes. In many ways, Sloane is completely unaware of her strength and when readers learn actually see that strength they will be amazed by her resolve. Granted, in the beginning, Sloane was completely dependent on James because she made him promise her that everything will be okay, but, alas, that was a promise easily broken. James, the stereotypical hottie, was Sloane's brother's best friend and readers will wonder if the romance between James and Sloane is based on guilt rather than love. Although Sloane and James constantly state otherwise, the power of their love is revealed in the end of the story. The most frustrating aspect of this story is how weak all of the parents, teachers, and mentors are in this story. For example, Sloane's parents, who never got over the loss of Brady, are in no position to be the supportive parents that Sloane deserves. Rather than thinking of their living child, they have left with no tools to cope with Brady's death and that is why Sloane has put all her faith, energy, and strength in James to keep her whole. However, every human being has their breaking point and Miller was the straw that broke the camel's back. Rather than slipping into her misery, Sloane made a conscience choice to be the one who keeps both her and James together the best she can and it be will her, alone, who will save their love. I really wasn't expecting this story to have the twist that it does, but there is a sequel to the story and reader's will have to wait to see what happens to Sloane and if she and James can escape The Program.    

Information about the Author:
According to her blog:

Originally from New York, Suzanne Young moved to Arizona to pursue her dream of not freezing to death. She currently resides in Tempe, where she teaches high school English. When not writing obsessively, Suzanne can be found searching her own tragic memories for inspiration.

Suzanne is the author of several books for teens, including THE PROGRAM, A NEED SO BEAUTIFUL, and A WANT SO WICKED. Friend her on Facebook or follow her on Twitter @suzanne_young. 

Genre:
Teen Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up
 
Books Similar to The Program:

• Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
• Unwind by Neal Schusterman

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com

(Booklist)

(BCCB)

(Kirkus Reviews)

(The Horn Books)

(Publishers Weekly)

Plot Summary:
After escaping the Darkling, Alina and Mal are on the run. Now that she has Morozova's amplifier, she is in more danger than ever. Although she and Mal have finally made it clear that they have feelings for one another, she continues to be haunted by the Darkling's words and the painful memories of when she unleashed her power onto the Grisha and the Darkling at Novokribirsk. When everything seemed to be peaceful, Alina and Mal were captured by Ivan and taken to the Darkling. Alina wasn't sure if he survived that day, but what she didn't realize is that his powers have doubled and revealed his plans to find Alina a second amplifier. According to Grisha law, Grisha can only have one amplifier for life, but the Darkling, hungry for power, believes that some Grisha can have more than one. After setting out on a treacherous journey to find the second amplifier, Alina and Mal meet Sturmhond (a privateer) and his crew. Although Sturmhond is charming and ambitious, there is something about him that both Alina and Mal don't quite understand. Fortunately, this Sturmhond isn't what he seems to be and, thanks to him, and his crew, Alina and Mal once again escape the Darkling only to be taken on another journey that will not only test their relationship, but Alina's abilities to to fight off the memories that haunt her and her desire for more power. Furthermore, Sturmhond begs Alina to not run, but to protect Ravka by staying by his side, which prompts a bargain that will put the Grisha at her command. The question is: can this Sun Summoner lead an Army while controlling the massive amount of power her new found amplifier has given her? Readers will have to find out in this thrilling sequel.    

Critical Evaluation:
WOW! It's a fact that with most trilogies, the second installment tends to suffer, but this is not the case with story. In fact, Bardugo does something that a lot of authors tend to drop the ball with, which is continuing the plot and not just about character development and the introduction of new characters. Alina's growth, as the Sun Summoner, not only proves to readers that she is actually a force to be reckoned with, but she is capable of leading the Grisha into battle. However, she is now being haunted by the Darkling and his words continue to take hold of her. Although she and Mal are together, being with one another has become increasingly difficult because she has decided to work with Nikolai in exchange of commanding the remaining Grisha. This is one of many trials these two will deal with and it's proving much more difficult than they thought. Alina is trying her best to show she cares, but Mal's pride, and station, have made it hard for him to accept her feelings. Granted, Alina hasn't made it easy for him because she has yet to tell Mal that the Darkling is haunting her, their relationship is falling apart right before their eyes. While Mal continues to try and prove himself, Alina is fighting off the advances of Nikolai and Vasily and she has to deal with mess that Apparat has created by making her a saint. Not only is she having to deal with unnecessary drama, it should not be surprising that the Darkling has found a way to slither his way into her mind. Despite all of these challenges, Alina tries desperately to take charge of her responsibilities including her second amplifier, which conveys that she is growing stronger every day, but even more fearful of who she is. Although Alina is in danger because of her new amplifier, she had decided to fight for Ravka instead of running away. The final battle in the end was just spectacular and I loved it! However, what can we expect from Alina now that Darkling sits on the throne and she is underground. Will the search for the firebird continue? We shall all have to wait in agonizing anticipation.

Information about the Author:
According to her website:

Leigh Bardugo was born in Jerusalem, grew up in Los Angeles, and graduated from Yale University. These days, she lives in Hollywood, where she indulges her fondness for glamour, ghouls, and costuming in her other life as makeup artist L.B. Benson. Occasionally, she can be heard singing with her band, Captain Automatic.

She is the author of the New York Times Best Sellers, Shadow & Bone  and Siege and Storm (Holt Children’s/ Macmillan). The final book in the Grisha Trilogy, Ruin and Rising, will be published in 2014. She is represented by Joanna Stampfel-Volpe of New Leaf.

Genre:
Teen Fantasy

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Siege and Storm:

• Graceling by Kate Cashore
• Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Lainy Taylor
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com
"An action-packed, heartbreaking ending will leave teens breathless for the final installment." -- School Library Journal

"This action-packed, suspenseful grand tale of war, adventure and love, with a maritime setting, colorful battles, and female warriors, will appeal to a broad readership and is an enticing prelude to the anticipated Book 3." -- VOYA

"Bardugo populates her fully realized world with appealing three dimensional characters and an involving plot that keeps a steady pace. . . The buzz will be big." -- Booklist

"Bardugo builds on strengths she brought to the first volume, including a richly crafted fantasy world with its own twist on magic, a surfeit of handsome leading men, and plenty of teen-appropriate romantic angst." -- The Horn Book

"Scheming and action carry readers at a breathless pace to an end that may surprise them and will definitely leave them panting for the series’ conclusion." -- Kirkus Reviews

Plot Summary:
Growing up as an orphan, Alina has always felt different and that she would never fit in. After losing her parents in a great battle, Alina and Mal were sent to live at a nobleman's home, as an act of benevolence, and were taught how to read and write. In this realm, if one was an orphan it would be considered low so Alina never disclosed she was an orphan, nor did she tell anyone about the power that was hidden deep down inside. As a cartographer in the First Army, Alina and Mal are sent into the Fold where pure evil lies and it is a moment of desperation and fear that awakens the power within her. After the incident on the skiff, Alina is brought to the Grisha (the Second Army) who are not only the King's greatest weapon against the kingdoms that are attacking Ravka, but will help Ravka defeat the evil within the Fold. Alina has no recollection of what happened in the fold other than the fact that she and Mal are alive because of a blinding light. When brought to the Darkling (the leader of the Grisha), Alina is asked to demonstrate her power despite the fact she doesn't know how. With the help of the Darkling's power, Alina is able to show the Grisha who, and what, she is. Afraid of losing her to their neighbors, Alina is literally swept away in a carriage to be trained at the palace to become a Grisha. Although she has no desire to be away from everything she knows, and loves, Alina has no choice to fit in even if it means leaving Mal behind. Not quite what to expect, Alina learns that the Grisha are not only powerful, but the Darkling has plans for her, which include defeating the evil within the Fold and becoming an icon of hope for Ravka. The only problem is whether or not she can trust the Darkling and would she be able to control, and summon, the power within her. 

Critical Evaluation:
For her first novel, Leigh Bardugo has done an amazing job. Not only is this realm fascinating, it is absolutely terrifying and exciting. The setting, and staging of the story, is very reminiscent of Imperial Russia and I LOVE IT! I can't imagine what it would be like to live in a world that is constantly at war and that the very idea of hell separates one part of the country from another. Filled with terror, and beauty, Ravka, itself, is divided between the First and Second Army. The First Army is comprised of ordinary human beings are are given duties based on their abilities. Mal and Alina were put into the First Army thanks to their upbringing that saved them from an uncertain fate. In this world, being in the Army is what provides food, shelter, clothing, and security; without the Army, Mal and Alina wouldn't have anything nor would they be together. The Grisha (the Second Army) are comprised of individuals with unique abilities that seem magical. For example, some of the Grisha can manipulate wind and others can give life or . These elite members are highly regarded and if any child exhibits these particular traits are recruited and trained. For Alina, she was tested, but, as we learn later on, she suppresses that power because of Mal. As with any Fantasy, there has to be a romantic subplot. Mal and Alina grew up together in the orphanage and it is only natural that they would cling to each other. As with any friendship between a boy and girl, those feelings develop into something more and the thought of leaving Mal is what prevents Alina from exhibiting her powers to the Grisha who came to test them. However, when Alina meets the Darkling, she is not only drawn to his power, but it's the Darkling that helps her hone and use her power with his own. Alina is not only caught between Mal and the Darkling, she has to find a way to use, and control, her powers since everyone in Ravka is counting on her to destroy the Fold. Honestly, this is a lot for someone who just found out that they have the ability to bring an end to the horrors that have fallen upon her people, but, more importantly, it's even harder to chose between two guys have an equal hold over her heart. The ending will surprise readers, which gets them amped up for the sequel, Siege and Storm.  

Information about the Author:
According to her website:

Leigh Bardugo was born in Jerusalem, grew up in Los Angeles, and graduated from Yale University. These days, she lives in Hollywood, where she indulges her fondness for glamour, ghouls, and costuming in her other life as makeup artist L.B. Benson. Occasionally, she can be heard singing with her band, Captain Automatic.

She is the author of the New York Times Best Sellers, Shadow & Bone  and Siege and Storm (Holt Children’s/ Macmillan). The final book in the Grisha Trilogy, Ruin and Rising, will be published in 2014. She is represented by Joanna Stampfel-Volpe of New Leaf.

Genre:
Teen Fantasy,

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Shadow and Bone:

• Leviathan by Scott Westerfield
• Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com
'Danger and duplicity abound (is the Darkling good or evil?) in this lavish portrayal of a country reminiscent of Imperial Russia."--VOYA

"Set in a fascinating, unique world rich with detail, Shadow and Bone was unlike anything I’ve ever read."  —Veronica Roth, New York Times bestselling author of Divergent

“Fast-paced and unpredictable, this debut novel will be a hit with readers who love dark fantasy.”--School Library Journal, starred

“Mesmerizing…Bardugo’s set up is shiver-inducing, of the delicious variety. This is what fantasy is for.”--New York Times

"A rich fantasy landscape, an inspired magical structure, and a gratifying emotional hook keep the pages whirring by until a final twist upends assumptions and lands us smack in the middle of a harrowing climax. "--Horn Book Magazine

"Filled with lush descriptions, intriguing magic, and plenty of twists, this memorable adventure offers action and intrigue mixed with an undercurrent of romance and danger.”--Publishers Weekly

“The plotting is powerful…”--Kirkus

"Bardugo weaves a captivating spell with lushly descriptive writing, engaging characters, and an exotic, vivid world. Readers will wait impatiently for the next installment.”—Booklist

“Romantic and magical…Plenty of plot twists and betrayals kept us enjoying this richly-crafted adventure until the very last page. (P.S. A do-not-miss for fans of Graceling.)" --Justine Magazine

“A well-drawn world, full of deceit and mythology, populated by entirely believable characters. Full of truly surprising twists and turns, beautiful imagery and a protagonist it’s impossible not to root for, this is a great choice for teenage fans of George R.R. Martin and J.R.R. Tolkien.”--RT Book Reviews

“This is one book series you want to get hooked on.” --Seventeen.com

“This gripping debut novel, with a touch of magic and romance, about two orphans thrown together during a century-old war will keep readers burning the midnight oil.” --Shelf Awareness

Plot Summary:
Kyle Kingsbury is not only beautiful, he is rich. Kyle was raised with the best that money can by and was always told that if you give something, always expect something in return. In other words, Kyle is a spoiled rotten brat who has no consideration, or feelings, for his peers. In fact, if one is not beautiful, or rich, then he or she would never be apart of his circle, nor will he acknowledge the existence of that person. Unfortunately, Kyle is cursed because of his vanity and cruelty and has two years to break this spell. The only problem with this "cure" is that he has to fall in love and the girl must reciprocate those feelings. For Kyle, this is a huge problem because he is not sure that he can feel and he is adamant that a girl could never love a monster.When doctors couldn't figure out a way to heal Kyle, his father, who is ashamed to have such an ugly son, is hidden away and is forced to finish out his schooling under house arrest. With no one to talk to Kyle has joined a chat group where other people, like him, are in a situation they don't want to be. After moving into a new apartment (without his father), Kyle realizes the seriousness of this curse and that his own father wants nothing to with him. Angry, and afraid, Kyle demands that his father provides hime with a few things that will keep the loneliness at bay, which is an internet connection and a tutor. When Will, his blind tutor, moves ins, Kyle a lesson two in humility and respect, which brings him to Lindy (the girl who accepted his white rose at the dance). Although Lindy isn't like his former girlfriend, he learns that she is smart, kind, and caring, which is not only beautiful, gorgeous. The question is: will Lindy see the same qualities in him or will be be cursed forever?

Critical Evaluation:
I just love this re-telling of Beauty and the Beast. Alex Flinn  is so ridiculously talented when it comes to writing that readers find it very hard to put her books down. I have yet to read her debut title and it's been interesting to see how her writing has evolved. Kyle is the typical egotistical guy who thinks money and good looks are what will help him succeed in life. Not only is he vain, but cruel, especially when he decides to ditch Kendra at the formal. However, not only does he get the rude awakening he needs, he is forced into a position that will determine the rest of his life, which is quite an ordeal for a clueless teenager. Although he is ready to give up on life, his only chance for happiness relies on a people whom he has never noticed before, nor would ask them for help. For example, he has always been rude and mean towards Magda, but, when he is exiled, it is her goodness that makes him realize how lucky he is to have her. Secondly, when Will, his tutor, plants the rose garden for him, he realizes that even a beast can be surrounded in beauty. Lastly, in one of his rare moments, he showed kindness to Lindy, at the dance before Kendra cursed him, who will eventually be the girl he falls for. Life can definitely throw us curve balls that not only upset the flow of our lives, but show us the harsh reality of the things we don't want to see or recognize. For Kyle, who is wealthy and has never been denied anything, he is now in the very position that he, and his peers at Tuttle, absolutely loathe; ugly people and freaks aren't worth anything. Lindy, however, is poor and her father is a drug addict and they only thing that brings her any kind of solace are her books. Kyle has never had to suffer and this curse is teaching him that life isn't easy, but full of struggles. These two characters compliment each other beautifully because Lindy, who is surrounded by a world ugly, can find beauty in a beast; whereas, Kyle, surrounded by beauty, can only see the ugliness of people. This is such a fun read and I am so glad I re-read it just I can share with all of you! Enjoy!

Information about the Author:
According to her website:

I was born in a log cabin in the Big Woods of . . . okay, maybe not. I was born in a small town on Long Island, New York. When I was five years old, my mom said that I should be an author. I guess I must have nodded or something because, from that point on, every poem I ever wrote in school was submitted to Highlights or Cricket magazine. I was collecting rejection slips at age seven!

I learned to read early and often. But I compensated for this early proficiency by absolutely refusing to read the programmed readers required by the school system — workbooks where you read the story, then answered the questions. When the other kids were on Book 20, I was on Book 1! My teacher, Mrs. Zeiser, told my mother, “Alexandra marches to her own drummer.” I don’t think that was supposed to be a good thing. Now, when my daughter, Katie, brings home FCAT prep materials where you are supposed to read a passage and answer questions, I want to ask the teacher, “Does she really need to do this? She can read!!!”

My family moved to Miami when I was in middle school. I had a really hard time making friends, so I spent a lot of time reading and writing then. But unlike Christopher Paolini or Amelia Atwater-Rhodes, I never finished writing a novel. That was also when I learned to be a keen observer (Picture Harriet the Spy). By high school, I’d made some friends and gotten involved in various “gifted and talented” performing arts programs. I studied opera in college (I’m a coloratura — the really loud, high-pitched sopranos.) and then went to law school.

I started writing an early (and laughable) version of Breathing Underwater in college (I was really bored on a car trip with my parents). I didn’t get back to it until I had my first daughter, Katie. I’m self-taught. I went to the library and took out books on writing. Then, I read a lot of young-adult novels by writers I admired, particularly Richard Peck. Reading his books is like listening to Mozart — you learn the right way to write a novel. Then, you fill in your own style. I actually got to meet Richard Peck in person at a workshop of the Key West Literary Seminar. Lots of writers have been really helpful to me, especially Richard and fellow YA author, Joyce Sweeney.

I write my first drafts longhand. At first, I did that because I didn’t own a computer. Then, I borrowed a memory typewriter and finally purchased a computer three years after I began writing. A year later Breathing Underwater was finished then accepted.

Right now, I live half a mile away from my old middle school, in Palmetto Bay, a suburb of Miami, with my husband, Gene, and daughters, Katie and Meredith.

Genre:
Teen Romance, Teen Fantasy

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Beastly:

• Cinder by Marris Meyer
• East by Edith Pattou

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com

“Teens will race to see if the beast get his kiss, lifts the curse, and lives happily ever after.” (Kirkus Reviews)

“[An] engrossing tale that will have appeal for fans of fantasy and realistic fiction” -- VOYA. (Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA))

“a must-read for fairy-tale fans.” (School Library Journal) 

Plot Summary:
 Jeanine is dead and the Factionless have won. What should be a time of celebration is actually a test since everyone is now aware of the truth that has been hidden all these years and Evelyn is worried. For Tris, she wants to know what's outside and she wants out of the world that robbed her of her family. Tobias, on the other hand, wants to be with Tris, but is hesitant to leave his mother after reconciling with her; it's not that he has forgiven her for leaving him, he wants to know what her intentions are.Unfortunately, when a riot broke out, Tobias and Tris know that it was intentional to keep those who call themselves the Allegiant from leaving the city and they know they have to get out. With the help of Cara, Joanna, and Tori, Tris, Tobias, Christina, Uriah, Peter, and Caleb organize an escape plan to the outside. When they arrive at the Bureau of Genetic Welfare, they are met by Zoe and Amar who then takes them to David, who will explain who Edith Prior is and why civilization was forced into factions. Not only is the truth devastating for everyone, it's an outrage that the idea of pure genes and damaged genes determine a person's worth. This does not settle well for both Tris and Tobias, which leads to hasty decisions and unforgivable consequences. Furthermore, Natalie Prior, Tris and Caleb's mother, not only worked for the Bureau, but her untimely death is the result of an experiment gone completely wrong. Tris and Tobias must makes choices they know that are not easy, but with the help of Matthew and Caleb, the former Erudite and Dauntless soldier must press on and the end is just unbelievable. Grab the tissues, ya'll...it's gonna be a bumpy ride.

Critical Evaluation:
This is the final installment in the trilogy and I am SO HAPPY IT IS! Not that I don't like this series ( I love it), it's just refreshing to know that the author has decided that the story must end so she can move on to bigger and better things. Aside from being the final story, this one is very different because it is actually told from two different point of views (Tris and Tobias). Personally, I thought this was a gutsy move on Roth's part because reader's have never been inside Tobias' head and it is enlightening to hear because readers can actually see who he really is and that he is just as scared, and vulnerable, like Tris. I have read quite a few reviews regarding this book and there is a rather large number of people who were disappointed with the ending, but, for me, Roth couldn't have done anything better. The ending will make readers angry and sad, but what we have to realize that the choices we make in life lead us to a future that we cannot escape. For Tobias, his choice nearly destroyed his relationship with Tris, but it takes quite a bit of retrospection (on Tobias' part) to realize that there always alternatives to bring an end to tyranny and that our character flaws do not define who we are. For Tris, who has experienced so much growth (in a small amount of time), the choices she made has made her wise and it's almost fitting that she did what she did. I admire Tris very much because she has done so many things that even adult men and women could never do. In my opinion, Tris is the kind of daughter that I would want to raise, simply because she uses her heart to guide her through everything despite what her brain might be telling her. Furthermore, teens readers need to understand that life is very bittersweet and all we can do is just live not matter how difficult the choices in life may be.  I am quite content with the ending and I believe there is a companion coming out that may provide readers with a bit of solace and satisfaction.  

Information about the Author:
According to the book jacket of Allegiant:

Veronica Roth is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Divergent and Insurgent, the first two books in the Divergent series. Now a full-time writer, Ms. Roth and her husband live near Chicago.

Genre:
Teen Dystopian Thrillers, Teen Sci Fi, Teen Contemporary Fiction

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Allegiant:

• Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
• Champion by Marie Lu

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com:

“Roth shakes up her storytelling (and will do the same to some readers) in this highly anticipated, largely satisfying wrap-up to the Divergent trilogy.” (Publishers Weekly)

“Roth’s plotting is...intelligent and complex. Dangers, suspicion, and tension lurk around every corner, and the chemistry between Tris and Tobias remains heart-poundingly real. This final installment will capture and hold attention until the divisive final battle has been waged.” (Publishers Weekly)

“The tragic conclusion, although shocking, is thematically consistent; the bittersweet epilogue offers a poignant hope.” (Kirkus Reviews)

“A surprise ending that is gutsier and much less predictable than the rest of the series would lead one to expect.” (Los Angeles Times)

“The next big thing.” (Rolling Stone)

“If you like Hunger Games & Twilight, then get stoked for DIVERGENT! Trust us on this—this baby is going to blow up BIG! And if you chose to remain factionless, then you’re gonna be one lonely soul.” (PerezHilton.com) 

Plot Summary:
Binky is officially a space cat. Not only does he have his official Felines of the Universe Read for Space Travel (F.U.R.S.T.) membership, he has plans to build a rocket ship to battle aliens, discover new worlds, and have adventures. However, Binky has never ever been outside his space station so how is he supposed to go on this adventure? Well, Binky trains. He boxes with his cat toys, he runs around the house chasing the aliens (aka. bugs), and he studies the books that are in the space station. Binky believes that the aliens are trying to take over the world and that is why he must protect his humans. As readers read on, they learn that Binky came to his home to be their guardian, cuddler, and helper. As Binky prepares for this awesome adventure, he realizes there are few things he forgets about, which might make his mission a lot harder then he thought.

Critical Evaluation:
SOOOO CUTE! I am a kitty momma of a super cute cat like Binky and I could literally see my cat doing the same exact things! The colored illustrations are very angular, which give Binky an almost bunny-like appearance. However, the shapes enhance his silliness since Binky acts like a wild bunny in most of the scenes and his head fits in a space helmet perfectly. The text is simple and the funny moments are just spot on! I love the illustrations where Binky farts because cats are notorious for farting when no one is watching  (or so they think) and the very idea of cats wearing clothes is just as hilarious. This is definitely a quick read so readers will have no problem starting one and reading the rest in the series in one sitting. This series is lots of fun and I can't wait to read the rest of Binky's adventures!

Information about the Author:
According to her website:

Ashley was born and raised in British Columbia where she resides still with her cats Gracie and Charlotte. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design and a Graduate Diploma in Illustration from Sheridan College. In addition to her illustration, she founded Chicken Tika Creations (which she named after her dog, not the food) and is selling her hand felted items across Canada.

Genre:
Tween Graphic Novels, Tween Fiction
 

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 3-6


Books Similar to Binky the Space Cat:

• The Lunch Lady and the Cyborg Substitute by Jarret J. Krosoczka
• Babymouse: The Queen of the World by Jennifer Holm
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com:

Spires’s mix of sly, dry and slapstick humor in her first graphic novel is perfect.

With plenty of visual gags and a cute hero, this book is perfect for kids who are transitioning from easy readers to early chapter books, while the dry humor will also keep stronger readers engaged. 

Plot Summary:
In this anthology of poetry, teens are given a wide variety of poems that are not only timeless, but relevant to the very issues they face. With poems from Emily Dickinson, William Shakespeare, Maya Angelou, and Poet Laureates such as Paul Muldoon and Sandra Cisneros, teens will dive into a sea of emotions that deal with everything from falling in love, being left out, experiencing joy and prejudice. There is so much that can be learned and reflected upon in this collection that teens, and even adults, can analyze and grapple with. In this edition of Poetry Speaks Who I am, a CD with the poets reading their works is included so teens can not only real along, but feel the power from the speaker's voice. Although poetry can be difficult to understand, this collection introduces, and eases, readers into this amazing world of words, rhymes, music, and sheer art.

Critical Evaluation:
I absolutely loved reading this anthology! In fact, I read about eight poems, aloud, to teens during our first annual Teen Poetry Cafe. As an adult, and looking back on my adolescence, it's amazing to reflect on the messages that are being conveyed in each poem. What's eve more surprising is that I still suffer from the same issues and it goes to show that poetry can encapsulate emotions where age and stages of life are irrelevant. The poem that touched my heart the most is "Every Day it is Always There" by Rainy Ortiz. The speaker of this poem is talking about his, or her, relationship with their mother. I will admit, right here and now, that not matter how much my mother and argued, or fought, the lessons she tried to instill in me have shaped and formed me into the person I am today. What we all must realize, in this particular poem, is that if there is a constant in every family, it's usually mom. Granted, not everyone may have the perfect mother, or a mother at all, but, at some point in our lives, our mothers have made significant sacrifices to get us to where we are and, whether we choose to acknowledge that sacrifice, we need to base it on love and not anger or hate. Another poem that struck a chord with me is "I Will Rise" by Maya Angelou. If we want to talk about powerful, this poem is just one of the few examples of how we must face our problems and overcome them. There are actually quite a few poems in this story that deal with racism. Readers can interpret this poem as a pledge to overcome several issues such as: race, gender, religion, and even age. I had to read this poem to the teens because they need to know that this world has no place for this kind of intolerance and that no matter what people say, we all  have the courage, the ability, and the drive to never lose hope and persevere.  I cannot express how much I loved reading this book because it not only carries words of wisdom, but but give teens the hope they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. 

Information about the Editors:

 Elise Paschen, a poet of Osage descent, is the author of Bestiary (Red Hen Press, 2009); Infidelities (Story Line Press), winner of the Nicholas Roerich Poetry Prize, and Houses: Coasts (Oxford: Sycamore Press). Her poems have been published in The New Republic, Ploughshares and Shenandoah, among other magazines, and in numerous anthologies, including Reinventing the Enemy’s Language: Contemporary Native Women’s Writings of North America; A Formal Feeling Comes: Poems in Form by Contemporary Women; Poetry 180: A Turning Back to Poetry and The POETRY Anthology, 1912—2002. She is editor of The New York Times best-selling anthology Poetry Speaks to Children and Poetry Speaks Who I Am (Sourcebooks) as well as co-editor of Poetry Speaks, Poetry Speaks Expanded (Sourcebooks), Poetry in Motion, and Poetry in Motion from Coast to Coast (Norton).

The daughter of prima ballerina Maria Tallchief and Henry Paschen, Elise Paschen was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, where she attended the Francis W. Parker School. While an undergraduate at Harvard, Paschen was awarded the Lloyd McKim Garrison Medal and the Joan Grey Untermyer Poetry Prize. At Oxford University, where she received her M.Phil. and D.Phil. degrees in 20th Century British and American Literature, she co-founded Oxford Poetry.

Executive Director of the Poetry Society of America from 1988 until 2001, she is the co-founder of Poetry in Motion, a nation-wide program which places poetry posters in subways and buses. Paschen was the featured Illinois poet at the National Book Festival sponsored by the Library of Congress in September 2006. She currently serves as Poet Laureate of Three Oaks, Michigan. A former Frances Allen Fellow of the Newberry Library, Dr. Paschen teaches in the MFA Writing Program at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She lives in Chicago with her husband and their two children.

Dominique Raccah is founder, president, and publisher of Sourcebooks, a leading independent publisher outside of Chicago. Today Sourcebooks is the world’s leading publisher of poetry in book-and-audio form, and also publishes nonfiction and fiction. Raccah was the initial visionary of the books Poetry Speaks, Poetry Speaks to Children and Hip Hop Speaks to Children, seeing them as interactive, engaging ways to experience spoken and written poetry.

Series Editor Dominique Raccah is founder, president, and publisher of Sourcebooks, a leading independent publisher outside of Chicago. Today Sourcebooks is the world’s leading publisher of poetry in book-and-audio form, and also publishes nonfiction and fiction. Raccah was the initial visionary of the books Poetry Speaks, Poetry Speaks to Children and Hip Hop Speaks to Children, seeing them as interactive, engaging ways to experience spoken and written poetry. - See more at: http://www.sourcebooks.com/index.php?option=com_egdauthors&view=author&aid=A343#sthash.f0V0vN1c.dpuf

Series Editor Dominique Raccah is founder, president, and publisher of Sourcebooks, a leading independent publisher outside of Chicago. Today Sourcebooks is the world’s leading publisher of poetry in book-and-audio form, and also publishes nonfiction and fiction. Raccah was the initial visionary of the books Poetry Speaks, Poetry Speaks to Children and Hip Hop Speaks to Children, seeing them as interactive, engaging ways to experience spoken and written poetry. - See more at: http://www.sourcebooks.com/index.php?option=com_egdauthors&view=author&aid=A343#sthash.f0V0vN1c.dpuf

Genre:
Teen Poetry, Teen Contemporary Fiction


Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up 

Books Similar to Poetry Speaks Who I Am:

• I Just Hope It's Lethal: Poems about Sadness, Madness, and Joy edited by Liz Rosenberg and Deena November

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com:

"Teen readers will find much to enjoy in "Poetry Speaks: Who I am...a highly eclectic collection of 100 poems about everything from valentines to being black to mowing the lawn."

"The power of spoken poetry is at the heart of Poetry Speaks. Poetry is a vocal art, an art meant to be read aloud. Listening to a poem read aloud can be a transforming experience. Poetry Speaks not only introduces the finest work from some of the greatest poets who ever lived, it reintroduces the oral tradition of poetry, of poetry performed."

"Poet Elise Paschen is turning her attention to yet another most universal of human experiences: awkward adolescence...[Paschen] can turn this subject into something that we can laugh about now."

"Poetry Speaks Who I Am is the perfect book to introduce tweens & teens to Poetry... [Poetry Speaks Who I Am] also features blank pages in the back, where teens can write their own poetry. The book's design also speaks to younger readers -- with the pages created to look like they belong in a teenager's notebook, with scribbles and doodles around the edges...This adds yet another dimension to the experience of poetry, which is sometimes considered a performance art more than anything else."

"Elise Paschen: poetry for teens caters to the rebel in each of us... So what if that poetry happens to be written by some fancy-sounding name such as Percy Shelley or Paul Muldoon? So much the better."

"This volume of verse is aimed at teenagers and is, not surprisingly, full of strong emotion... It's a standout collection, packaged with a CD of the poems read aloud, many by the poets themselves."

"Humorous, biting, tender, angry, confused--the range of moods and voices reflect those of young people themselves as they make and lose friends, fall in love, worry about school, hug (and hurt) parents and try to figure out their place in the world."

"The greatest contemporary poets speak to our youth and to us all. This marvelous anthology contains over 100 poems that matter, by such luminaries as Langston Hughes, Robert Frost and Edgar Allan Poe, to the greatest of our own lifetime: Nikki Grimes, Joy Harjo, Richard Wilbur, Jason Shinder, Nancy Willard, N. Scott Momaday and scores more. A rich experiential collection is featured on the included CD with 47 new, recent and archived recordings of the poets and editors reading their work! The look, feel and design of this volume is cool and relevant – just like the poetry. This gem is a gift of a lifetime." - National Parenting Publications Awards

Plot Summary:
In this brilliant collection of poems, Rosenberg and November have provided teen readers with a collection of poetry to navigate the storm known as adolescence. Most of these poems deal with the stark reality of depression, anger, and even the sheer power of joy and healing. With that said, the poems are grouped into categories that are assigned by emotion ranging from living in this crazy world, to feeling alone, and to celebrating the beauty within us. All of these poems are succinct in their message and provide readers with stories they can relate to or learn from. The best part of this collection is that the editors include both classic and contemporary poetry, which conveys to readers that poetry is timeless; no matter what year it is, these feelings and words are very relevant to not only our state of mind, but help us with the harshness of life. Although some of the poems are rather complex, readers will get the idea just by the tone and a re-reading. In fact, these poems can be used in the classroom where students can work in groups and breakdown the message that is being conveyed. Lastly, this book is also great for the adult who is looking for reflection because sometimes we forget what's it's like to be young and somewhat out of control of our feelings and lives. 

Critical Evaluation:
As an adult, I have never appreciated poetry more than after reading this book. I actually remember hating poetry because I spent my entire senior year of high school analyzing poetry for my AP English class. However, despite the drilling, I learned a lot about poetry besides the mechanics and that is why I like this collection of poetry. Although this collection might not appeal to everyone, I highly encourage everyone to pick it up, especially if they are having a bad day. Granted, most of the poems are about the darker side of life (loss, sadness, and craziness), there is a great amount of comfort to be found simply because we know we are not alone. The poem that I feel in love with (immediately) is the poem by Lewis Carrol called "You are Old. Father William." This poem is hysterical because here is a young person judging an elder on their appearance and mannerisms. However, contrary to what the speaker says, this old man isn't nuts because not only is he nimble, but he is alert and his whit is on target. In the end, readers learn that age is just a number and that our characters reflect what's really inside (i.e., the young person acts like an an old fuddy duddy while Father William is spry and exciting). There is a lot to be read here and I hope readers will enjoy it the way I did.   

Information about the Editors:
Liz Rosenberg (from Amazon.com):

Liz Rosenberg is the author of 4 novels, 5 books of poems and more than 20 award winning books for children. She has edited five prize winning poetry anthologies (including THE INVISIBLE LADDER and LIGHT GATHERING POEMS) and her picture book, THE CAROUSEL was featured on PBS' Reading Rainbow. Her newest picture book, TYRANNOSAURUS DAD, illustrated by brilliant newcomer Matthew Myers, is a Children's Book of the Month Club bestseller, has garnered praise from Publisher's Weekly, Kirkus, School Library Journal and elsewhere, and was an Amazon top 10 children's book.

Deena November (from Hyacinth Girl Press):

Deena November graduated SUNY Binghamton in 2005 with a BA in Creative Writing, Poetry and received her MFA in Creative Writing, Poetry from Carlow University. In 2005, she co-edited the anthology I JUST HOPE IT'S LETHAL: Poems of Sadness, Madness, and Joy for Houghton Mifflin. Her poems have also appeared in Pittsburgh City Paper, Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Shaking Like a Mountain, Nerve Cowboy, Chiron Review, Voices in the Attic, and Keyhole Magazine. She has taught Poetry and Creative Writing Workshops at Seton Hill University. Currently, she teaches at Carlow University and Robert Morris University in the English, Creative Writing, and Women’s Studies departments. She co-created Girls with Glasses Reading Series, Workshops, and Literary Journal. Deena lives in Pittsburgh with her daughter, dog, and husband. - See more at: http://hyacinthgirlpress.com/yeartwo/dickwad.html#sthash.XPiouWuw.dpuf

Deena November graduated SUNY Binghamton in 2005 with a BA in Creative Writing, Poetry and received her MFA in Creative Writing, Poetry from Carlow University. In 2005, she co-edited the anthology I JUST HOPE IT'S LETHAL: Poems of Sadness, Madness, and Joy for Houghton Mifflin. Her poems have also appeared in Pittsburgh City Paper, Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Shaking Like a Mountain, Nerve Cowboy, Chiron Review, Voices in the Attic, and Keyhole Magazine. She has taught Poetry and Creative Writing Workshops at Seton Hill University. Currently, she teaches at Carlow University and Robert Morris University in the English, Creative Writing, and Women’s Studies departments. She co-created Girls with Glasses Reading Series, Workshops, and Literary Journal. Deena lives in Pittsburgh with her daughter, dog, and husband.

Deena November graduated SUNY Binghamton in 2005 with a BA in Creative Writing, Poetry and received her MFA in Creative Writing, Poetry from Carlow University. In 2005, she co-edited the anthology I JUST HOPE IT'S LETHAL: Poems of Sadness, Madness, and Joy for Houghton Mifflin. Her poems have also appeared in Pittsburgh City Paper, Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Shaking Like a Mountain, Nerve Cowboy, Chiron Review, Voices in the Attic, and Keyhole Magazine. She has taught Poetry and Creative Writing Workshops at Seton Hill University. Currently, she teaches at Carlow University and Robert Morris University in the English, Creative Writing, and Women’s Studies departments. She co-created Girls with Glasses Reading Series, Workshops, and Literary Journal. Deena lives in Pittsburgh with her daughter, dog, and husband. - See more at: http://hyacinthgirlpress.com/yeartwo/dickwad.html#sthash.XPiouWuw.dpuf

Genre:
Teen Poetry, Teen Contemporary Fiction

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to I Just Hope It's Lethal:

• Poetry Speaks Who I Am by Ellen Paschen & Dominique Raccah
• Because I am Furniture by Thalia Chaltas
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com:

"Includes poems of great intensity . . . alongside verses with humor-tinged darkness." —Publishers Weekly Publishers Weekly

"The wide range of styles, from poets both famous and lesser known, from various time periods, also adds interest. . . . Good biographical notes and indices of authors, titles, and first lines conclude the volume." —Horn Book Horn Book

"[A] deeply affecting, and sophisticated collection, which will resonate with young people in all states of mental equilibrium." —Booklist Booklist, ALA

"Powerfully written and easy to understand. . . . This efficiently organized, concise, and interesting collection is an excellent choice for libraries serving teens." --School Library Journal School Library Journal

Plot Summary:
In order to escape the streets, Perry has signed up to fight the war in Vietnam. Although he has aspirations of making something of himself, he knows staying home won't get him anywhere. After landing in Vietnam, Perry meets a cast of characters who have their own reasons, and issues, as to why they volunteered. For instance, Pee Wee. For the lack of a better description, Pee Wee is nuts. Like Perry, Pee Wee is from the Projects who hung out with the wrong crowd. In fact, Pee Wee inadvertently signed up for the Army because his buddy wanted to join, but was turned down because he was "rowdy." Jenkins, another newbie, is scared out of his mind and didn't take to Pee Wee's antics when it came to fighting. After orientation, Perry and company were called into the field and the fear that Perry had been trying to keep at bay was slowly taking over. For Pee Wee, this should have been a moment of elation, but Perry knew better that Pee Wee was all talk because he could also see the fear in Pee Wee's eyes. When they landed in Chu Lai, Perry, Pee Wee, and Jenkins were assigned to Alpha unit where they meet Johnson (a rather large and intimidating Southerner), Lobel (a movie buff), and Brunner (a suck-up). Although the reality of war has yet to set in, an accident occurs that conveys to these young men that war is very real and very scary. Although these young men have very little in common, the quickly learn to put their differences aside when they are sent to the front line. In fact, all Perry can think of is getting out Vietnam and relocating to Hawaii where he would enroll in the University of Hawaii. Unfortunately, that dream will have to wait because all he can think about is staying alive. The more action Perry and his fellow soldiers see, they more they realize that war is nothing like the movies they watch. In fact, they start wondering why Alpha group (an all-Black unit) is always the one sent in first. In this horrifying account of war, a group of men are forced to grow up and fight a war that eventually loses its meaning and the loss of life is catastrophic. To this day, the Vietnam War is one of the darkest moments in American history. 

Critical Evaluation:
Walter Dean Myers is one of those author's who knows how to get in the reader's head and force them to adsorb every word that is on the page. Most people don't know this about me, but I am a huge war movie fan and this story is written so well that I can visualize every detail. I cannot begin to imagine what these soldiers saw and it is absolutely heart-breaking. Perry wanted nothing more then to escape the streets and they only way he could do is to enlist. As a young, Black male, Perry's options were limited and it's almost the only way (at the time) he could progress, and get an education, is to join the Army. Granted, he is not the only one to join the service under these circumstances, it is still really hard to believe that these brave young men, who put their lives on the line, would come home to the same ignorance, hatred, and utter disrespect that they have grown up with. For example, with WWII, Black came home to Jim Crow Laws and Japanese Americans came home with no homes and deep resentment. These minority units (Tuskegee and 442nd) were the most highly decorated units, yet, all the could do was work as janitors and mechanics. As Vietnam escalated, the American people became angry. Some may not know this fact, but the reason why soldiers were given the awful label of "baby killers" is because Vietnam was the first war to have real live footage aired to the American people, the American Press was aloud onto air bases, and some reporters were implanted. Unfortunately, since most of the news was skewed (i.e., ratings and editing) , it shouldn't be surprising that people would overreact they way they did and that is why books like Fallen Angels are absolutely essential in providing real insight into the mind of a soldier. Since Perry volunteered for the service, readers needed to understand that the Draft was used for this war and a lot of young men, who weren't meant for war, were killed on the field. To this day, Vietnam veterans continue to suffer from the effects of the war and some don't even want to talk about their experience because of the horror they witnessed. I was in tears when I finished this story, but, despite the ordeal these young men went through, I am thankful for their sacrifice and service.     

Information about the Author:
According to his website:

I was born on a Thursday, the 12th of August, 1937, in Martinsburg, West Virginia. My name at birth was Walter Milton Myers. For some strange reason I was given to a man named Herbert Dean who lived in Harlem. I consider it strange because I don't know why I was given away.

I was raised in Harlem by Herbert and his wife, Florence. Herbert was African American. Florence was German and Native American and wonderful and loved me very much.
As a child my life centered around the neighborhood and the church. The neighborhood protected me and the church guided me. I resisted as much as I could.

I was smart (all kids are smart) but didn't do that well in school.

I dropped out of high school (although now Stuyvesant High claims me as a graduate) and joined the army on my 17th birthday.

Basketball has always been a passion of mine. Sometimes at night I lie in bed thinking about games I've played. Sometimes I think about what would have happened if I had gone into the NBA (I was never good enough) or college ball.

Anyway.... I wrote well in high school and a teacher (bless her!) recognized this and also knew I was going to drop out. She advised me to keep on writing no matter what happened to me.
"It's what you do," she said.

I didn't know exactly what that meant but, years later, working on a construction job in New York, I remembered her words. I began writing at night and eventually began writing about the most difficult period of my own life, the teen years. That's what I do.

Genre:
Teen Military Fiction, Teen Historical Fiction, Teen Lit for Guys


Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Fallen Angels:

• Search and Destroy by Dean Hughes
• Purple Heart by Patricia McCormick

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com:

"A coming of age tale for young adults set in the trenches of the Vietnam War in the late 1960s, Fallen Angels is the story of Perry, a Harlem teenager who volunteers for the service when his dream of attending college falls through. Sent to the front lines, Perry and his platoon come face-to-face with the Vietcong and the real horror of warfare. But violence and death aren't the only hardships. As Perry struggles to find virtue in himself and his comrades, he questions why black troops are given the most dangerous assignments, and why the U.S. is there at all. Fallen Angels won the 1989 Coretta Scott King Award." --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

. . . as thought provoking as it is entertaining, touching and, on occasion, humorous. -- The New York Times Book Review --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.