Book Review: Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication date: February 2012
Pages: 320
Source: Library
For: Fun

Auggie has been in special schools since he started school, so when his parents decide to integrate him into a regular school in 5th grade, he is understandably nervous.  Having been born with a severe facial deformity, fitting in has not been something Auggie naturally does.  All Auggie wants now is to lead a regular 5th grade life, but can the kids at Beecher Prep accept him as he is, see past his unusual face?  

Things I Liked:
This really is a powerful book - a book that talks about hard things like bullying and doesn't seem to be too preachy and lame.  I think this will make a fantastic read-aloud for middle grade readers.  In fact, while I was reading it, my 12-year-old niece told me her teacher read the book to them and she really liked it.  It teaches hard lessons and shows the lessons from many different perspectives, all while feeling very natural.  I like how there aren't perfect people in the story - even those who are kind to Auggie make stupid decisions and aren't always able to look past his face.  I think it helped me to see that people who look different know that they do, they expect all of the reactions they get (because they've seen them all), and we need to get over it and see who people are underneath.  Kids can be cruel, but kids can be so kind too.  A sweet story that packs a punch.  And you can't help but love Auggie, who deals with so much, but with such grace.

Things I Didn't Like:
After all the raving, I expected there to be something a bit more, you know?  Something big and crazy that happens.  Instead, I get this quiet book with a message that doesn't exactly sneak up on you, but doesn't whack you upside the head either.  Quiet messages like be a bit more patient when people annoy you, etc.  Not exactly what I thought it would be. Better.

Read-alikes:
Reminded me of Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine
Out of my Mind by Sharon Draper
 
BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
not really violence, but bullying

Overall rating: *****

If you haven't read this one, get on it!  Everyone should get a chance to experience it.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Prairie Evers by Ellen Airgood

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Prairie Evers by Ellen Airgood
Publisher: Nancy Paulsen Books
Publication date: May 2012
Pages: 215
Source: ARC from ALA
For: Review

Prairie, who has been homeschool for all her 10 years, suddenly finds herself in a new town and without her grandma. Worse, she's got to go to public school and she's about to find out that it's not all that fun. Until she meets her best friend Ivy.  And even if she feels like a fish out of water, raising chickens and wanting to be outside instead of at school, she has at least one friend. 

Things I Liked:
I loved sweet Prairie and the way she hated change and couldn't see how things would work out, but then they did.  I loved when she would say things and then how she learned not to say things.  I loved watching her grow, listening to her voice, seeing her life changing in unexpected ways.  This book tugged a little on my heartstrings, but even more made me feel nostalgic for my childhood.  A sweet coming-of-age story of a young girl just beginning to understand life.

Things I Didn't Like:
Everything did wrap up pretty neatly, at least for Prairie, but not necessarily for Ivy.  Otherwise, it was just a short, sweet middle grade novel for fans of Little House on the Prairie or other small town stories.

Read-alikes:
Sort of a bit like Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Reminded me of a younger Ten Miles Past Normal by Frances O'Roark Dowell 
Maybe like a younger Queen of Kentucky by Alecia Whitaker too

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ****

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Heirs of Prophecy by Michael A. Rothman

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Heirs of Prophecy by Michael A. Rothman
Publisher: M&S Publishing
Publication date: April 2012
Pages: 370
Source: Review copy provided by author
For: Review/Tour
Series: Prophecies series, Book 1

When the Rivertons take a surprise vacation to Arizona, they little expected to end up in a strange new world called Trimoria.  A place where Ryan and Aaron discover they have magical powers - powers that will make them a target for the evil wizard Azazel.  Will they be able to defeat the evil powers that seek to destroy Trimoria before they themselves are destroyed?

Things I Liked:
The book has an interesting plot - the family that accidentally ends up in a strange world, complete with magic powers.  I love the device of following strange paths to new worlds, like the Chronicles of Narnia or Beyonders, and this is along those same lines.  The fantasy world is complex and interesting, if not unique, and has plenty of cool creatures and odd characters - and, of course, an evil wizard.  I was especially fascinated at the inclusion of Ryan and Aaron's parents in the adventure - it seems there are very rarely good, present parents in fantasy stories, but they are here in this one and quite good.  Definitely a unique trait in MG fantasy books. 

Things I Didn't Like:
I have to admit, I was put off a few times with the writing.  Sometimes the way things are described just seemed awkward.  And I had a hard time imagining the family wouldn't even think about getting home, instead they settled completely into their new life in a strange place.  It just didn't seem realistic at all and left me feeling like the first part of the book, about their life before, was not important.  It's not as compelling or interesting as many fantasy books (especially the read-alikes), but it will still be fun for those who love a good adventure story - and especially fans of blacksmithing (there's a LOT of time spent describing the making of swords, etc.).

Read-alikes:
Beyonders by Brandon Mull
Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
maybe one or two

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
a few instances of fighting, not descriptive

Overall rating: ***

For more stops on the tour, check out the TLC Tour schedule.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Seeds of Rebellion by Brandon Mull

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Seeds of Rebellion by Brandon Mull
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's (Aladdin)
Publication date: March 2012
Pages: 512
Source: Library
For: Fun
Series: Beyonders, Book 2

Jason is desperate to find a way back to Lyrian, since he left Rachel behind and he needs to share an important secret.  But his parents are so overjoyed at his return he finds it hard to escape.  When he does eventually return, things are not as he left them, with tensions running high and both Jason and Rachel in great danger.  Will Jason, Rachel, and their friends be able to rouse a rebellion to fight against Maldor or will they all lose their lives?

Things I Liked:
I do not know what is going on inside Brandon Mull's head, but he has more imagination than any writer I've read, hands down.  The weird and crazy and magical beings that inhabit these books are just unbelievable in number and variety.  The story also manages to keep me interested and wondering what will happen next to our displaced hero and heroine.  It's an imaginative series filled with the strange and unusual.  There's never a dull moment, that's for sure.

Things I Didn't Like:
I think I was put off a little by the non-stop descriptions.  It seemed that everything and everyone had at least two descriptive adjectives.  It got to be a bit much, bogging down the story and action.  Also, Mull uses a lot more obscure or difficult words, making it less accessible than his Fablehaven series, but perhaps will help kids learn more vocabulary.  Still, for those not afraid of some bigger words, the story is satisfying and worth the effort.

Read-alikes:
Start with Beyonders: A World Without Heroes by Brandon Mull
Reminds me of Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: -> 
some sword fighting, not graphic though

Overall rating: ****

How does this one compare to Fablehaven for you?

 

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos
Publisher: Farrar, Straus & Giroux
Publication date: September 2011
Pages: 352
Source: Library
For: Fun (and because it won the Newbery)

Jack is planning to have the summer of his life, until he's grounded for life.  His only escape is the unusual job of writing obituaries for Mrs. Voelker, his eccentric old neighbor. But things in his dead end town are about to get more exciting when a whole bunch of the original town members start to die off.

Things I Liked:
What a fun and interesting story!  I really liked Jack and especially Mrs. Voelker, who is the life of this story.  She is the Grandma Dowdel of the book.  There were lots of fun, quirky characters and I loved seeing the world of the 1960s from the eyes of a kid.  The writing was excellent, with some seriously great imagery and similes.  Check out the quotes below for a taste (ok, they're mostly just funny parts).  Not to mention, some of the stories are simply hilarious - I can totally picture Mr. Spizz riding around on his adult tricycle.  Definitely will be remembering these stories for a long time!

I was a nosebleeder.  The moment something startled me or whenever I got excited or spooked about any little thing blood would spray out of my nose holes like dragon flames. p 8

"I've only driven a tractor," I said nervously.  "I don't know if I can really drive a car."
"It's the same," she said.  "Just go slow and it won't matter if you hit anything."
"But what if I slowly drive off a cliff?" I asked.
"You'll have more time to pray before you hit the bottom," she said impatiently.  "Now try to be a man and let's get going." p 102

Things I Didn't Like:
Honestly, I thought it was boring.  Yes, there were funny stories and interesting things happened, but a lot of the time, there was nothing to keep me invested.  Also, it was a very all-over-the-place kind of book; I wasn't exactly sure what the point of the narrative was or often where the story was going.  It was fairly episodic, but not necessarily in a good way.  Instead of being completely impressed with this book, I felt it was just good, despite the fun I had reading it.  Now I really wish Okay for Now had taken the Newbery.

Read-alikes:
The Wednesday Wars and Okay For Now by Gary Schmidt
A Long Way From Chicago and A Season of Gifts by Richard Peck

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe one or two

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
well, there are some people dying

Overall rating: ****

Are you often a bit disappointed with award winners?

 

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH
Publication date: May 2011
Pages: 464
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun!
Series: Kane Chronicles, Book 2

*Spoilers for The Red Pyramid are inevitable*
Carter and Sadie Kane may have temporarily defeated Apophis, but he's bound to return if they don't find the legendary Book of Ra and use it to help defeat him.  With the help of some old friends and new ones as well, the Kanes are determined to keep chaos at bay until Apophis can be contained completely.

Things I Liked:
I always love Riordan's series.  He combines perfectly smart stories, real kid characters, and a level of humor that can entertain kids and adults alike.  I love how easily he's taken history and mythology and made it fun, interesting, and readable.  The books are so clever too - phrasing and humor and everything done so well.  Sadie and Carter are so real, particularly the way their narrations seem almost like a sibling fight.  Reminds me of myself and my older brother sometimes.  I've really been enjoying the audio versions, because the two narrators are so good - they sound just right for the ages and they make great sarcastic inflections too.  And Bes!  Oh, how I loved Bes.  There are many wonderful things that make these series a blast to read or listen to. 

Things I Didn't Like:
I always think the stories last just a little too long.  I think if they were a bit shorter and maybe cut out one or two side stories/adventures, they would be better.  I also thought it was a bit odd that during the exciting ending Carter seemed to do practically nothing and Sadie did everything important.  Just some little qualms, though, because they really are so fun - kids will devour them!

Read-alikes:
Read The Red Pyramid first
It's like the Percy Jackson series, of course

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe one or two 

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
some action, not descriptive or graphic

Overall rating: **** 

What do you think of the surge in mythological-based books?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Dragon Castle by Joseph Bruchac

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Dragon Castle by Joseph Bruchac
Publisher: Dial
Publication date: June 2011
Pages: 352
Source: Library
For: Cybils

Prince Rashko is frustrated that he's the only one in the family who can think straight.  His foolish parents and ridiculous older brother seem incompetent to care for the kingdom.  So, when his parents disappear right when a mysterious and powerful stranger appears, Rashko knows it's up to him to make sure the castle and kingdom are safe.  But he might have to depend on his foolish family and his unique ancestry to help him.

Things I Liked:
I loved the beautiful setting and the lovely Slovak details of this story (probably because I had such a great time visiting the Czech Republic a few years back)!  The characters, the folk tale-ish feel of it, all of these things appealed to me.  The whole story and atmosphere had me drawn into its details almost from the first.  I loved the characters too, how Rashko thinks he's so smart and everyone in his family is moronic - it was very teenage of him.  I think the relationships between all members of the family are really interesting, particularly the way our perceptions (and Rashko's too) change toward them is really well done.  And the book also manages to have humor!  An awesome historical fantasy with an eastern European flavor.  A favorite part:

"I lovely young human woman who was prisoner of bad monster.  Is safe now to put down sword and shield and come rescue me.  I not dragon trying to trick you."
Jedovaty looked up at Pavol with one eye.  "Seven heads," the former donkey observed, "and not a working brain in any one of them?" p 232

Things I Didn't Like:
Some of the story seemed to drag, the pacing wasn't quite on through the whole book.  The flipping back and forth in perspective was annoying sometimes, but I still managed to enjoy it.  And a few times I was bothered by the numerous uses of Slovak language (mostly I loved them), which I think will discourage some kids from finishing it.  Still, it's a strong fantasy book for those who love castles and magic and folk tales and aren't afraid of those more difficult linguistic details.

Read-alikes:
A bit like the Bartimaeus Trilogy by Jonathan Stroud
The Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 
None that I remember

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: ->-> 
there is some fighting and a few frightening parts

Overall rating: **** 

For more middle grade fun, check out Jill at The Owl's March of Middle Grade Books event!

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Inquisitor's Apprentice by Chris Moriarty

The Inquisitor's Apprentice by Chris Moriarty
Publisher: Harcourt Children's Books
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 356
Source: Library
For: Cybils

When one day Sacha can't see witches and the next he can, things go from bad to worse.  He's snached up to become an inquisitor's apprentice, to help eradicate magic from the streets of New York.  But when he becomes embroiled in a plot to assassinate Thomas Edison, his job and his life become a lot more complicated.  Will he be able to figure out who's trying to kill Edison before he loses his own life?

Things I Liked:
The story in this one had me caught in its web.  It intrigued, it surprised, it made me laugh and cry.  The book was more than its story though.  It had real characters - Sacha was so complicated and so vulnerable and so powerful at once.  I loved the view of society in New York during the early 1900s - the historical detail was fantastic.  The racism and the many different cultures, and the difference between ideals and reality and rich and poor in America.  All of this was cleverly reshaped with magic as its basis - a very well done alternate history.  I adored it.  Here's a favorite quote: 

Working miracles is like letting out a pair of pants: You can only stretch the fabric of the universe so far before you run out of cloth.  After that, you're stuck deciding whether you want cold ankles or a cold tushie. p 181

Things I Didn't Like:
It was a bit difficult at times to get into, mostly, I think because of the Jewish cultural elements I simply didn't get.  I think if I were Jewish or had grown up in NY with more exposure to Jewish culture, I would have thought this book was perfect.  But sometimes I didn't quite understand what a word meant and I definitely felt confused about what a dybbuk actually is for nearly the entire book.  Many Yiddish phrases were explained, but quite a few were not.  It might be a tough sell for kids and it might be they would see the story and forget about all that other stuff.  It just depends on the kid, I guess.

Read-alikes:
Reminded me of the Leviathan series by Scott Westerfeld
Thirteenth Child by Patricia C. Wrede

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
one or two

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: -> 
a little bit, but mostly it has some scary elements

Overall rating: **** 

Do you like reading alternate histories with magical elements?  What's your favorite book like this?

Bonus: for more middle grade greatness, check out Jill at The Owl's March of Middle Grade Books event!

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George
Publisher: Bloomsbury Childrens
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 240
Source: Library
For: Cybils
Series: Yes, this is Book 1
 

Castle Glower is not your everyday garden variety castle.  It is constantly changing, moving around, creating new rooms or closets or stairs.  When Celie's parents disappear, though, things become a lot more difficult at home.  Diplomats from other countries are trying to take over the throne.  Can the Glower children protect their parents' throne - and the kingdom - with the help of their castle?

Things I Liked:
I fell in love with the castle right on the first page. This sweet and funny adventure in a castle with a personality all its own was such a delight to read! The Glower children were also fun to read about, Celie of course being my favorite. I liked the nice combination of the silly, funny, and serious that made this one a light but thoughtful book. Definitely a fun new series for MG fans looking for magic and castles.  Sweet and just what one expects of a mg fantasy.  It even has some boy appeal, if they can get past the girly cover (which, is a big "if").

Things I Didn't Like:
I was just a touch disappointed in the ending, since it seemed a bit hurried, unexplained, and convenient. There were some hard things to face, but it almost seemed like they were too easily taken care of. Not much in the way of explanation for Celie's parents being gone so long, particularly as this is a big plot point. But, still an enjoyable read.

Read-alikes:
Dragon Slippers series by Jessica Day George
Princess Ben by Catherine Gilbert Murdock
Anything Gail Carson Levine
Once Upon a Marigold by Jean Ferris

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: none 

Overall rating: ****

Would you want to live in a castle that is constantly changing?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness (inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd)
Publisher: Candlewick
Publication date: September 2011
Pages: 224
Source: e-book from NetGalley
For: Review (and Cybils)

When Conor wakes up one night with a monster outside his window, he isn't afraid.  He expected a monster, ever since his mom started her cancer treatments.  But this monster is different, and he wants something painful from Conor.  Will Conor be able to face this monster that pushes his understanding of himself and his mother beyond what he is comfortable with?

Things I Liked:
This is a thoughtful and tough little book.  I liked the combination of realistic situations and real tragedy as well as a sort of fantasy element.  I think this book is one that I'd definitely label magical realism.  I was interested in the monster - what it was, what it represented, why it was there, what it was doing, etc.  I think the idea of it and the things we slowly understand about it make the book compelling.  But really, it is the ideas and the hard look at what life is like when you have a terminally ill family member that make this unforgettable.  I liked how it wasn't glossed over, how Conor made mistakes and the struggles he has fitting his home life and his school life together.  The issues he faces and the personal demons are so realistic they will make you cry.  A lot.  Beautiful story, beautifully told.  I first read the book on my kindle (thank you NetGalley), but hated the format for the illustrations (which was more like a non-format).  I did finally check it out from the library and got to appreciate fully the beauty of those illustrations.

Things I Didn't Like:
I have to admit, I found some of the details of the monster's story a bit distracting from Conor's story.  There were some really complex and abstract concepts thrown around in relation to Conor and I am quite sure I didn't fully grasp them.  I kind of wanted something I could nail down and understand.  And I really questioned the kid-appeal of this one for the Cybils.  I just couldn't see a general interest in such a dark and sometimes quite depressing book.  Something that I can't quite put my finger on is holding me back from giving this one five stars.  But I absolutely recommend it.

Read-alikes:
This one is pretty unique, maybe a little like Umbrella Summer by Lisa Graff

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
one or two

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: -> 
not so much violent as raw and a bit scary in places

Overall rating: **** 

What did you love about this book?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Ivy and the Meanstalk by Dawn Lairamore

 Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Ivy and the Meanstalk by Dawn Lairamore
Publisher: Holiday House
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 221
Source: Review copy provided by publicist
For: Review
Series: Sequel to Ivy's Ever After

Princess Ivy and her dragon friend Elridge seem to be settling down after saving Ivy's kingdom.  But not for long.  When a giant beanstalk disrupts Ivy's fairy godmother's wedding, Ivy and Elridge are pulled into another new adventure.  This time, they must recover a stolen harp to help an angry insomniac giantess before it is too late for the kingdom.  Can they convince the greedy king who has it to help them out?

Things I Liked:
This was another fun adventure for Princess Ivy and her faithful dragon friend Elridge.  I loved the way the Jack and the Beanstalk tale is woven throughout, but has a very different perspective from the usual.  It is a fractured fairy tale at its best.  I love Ivy and the way she grows and changes over the book, but also the way she doesn't fit into the typical princess mold - and doesn't particularly care if she does.  Her zany adventures are a blast, and there is some depth and thought to the book, making it more than just fluff.

Things I Didn't Like:
These books are fun for younger MG/older elementary kids, though the end was just a little too easy (though there were some surprising difficulties as well).  Change came to some characters a bit too quickly, but fortunately not for Ivy.  Still an enjoyable read for those who might like a light twist on the typical fairy tale.

Read-alikes:
Read the first in the series, Ivy's Ever After by Dawn Lairamore
Reminded me of Jessica Day George's Dragon Slippers books

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: none 

Overall rating: **** 

What's your favorite fractured fairy tale?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication date: October 2011
ISBN: 9780062014511
Source: Library

Liesl has been imprisoned in the attic for months, thanks to her cruel stepmother.  But, when the ghost Po appears and helps her make a great escape, she embarks on a journey to a place she once knew.  Will, the alchemist's apprentice, has only seen Liesl from afar, but he already wonders if they will be friends.  An accidental mixup leads their two lives together in unexpected and unusual ways.

Things I Liked:
I loved the magical and wonderful setting.  Despite a world without color and sun and warmth, the characters blaze from every page.  Leisl and Po and Will may start out sad and lonely and pitiable, but they each seek and find what they need to change and be happier.  I think that mostly, this story will please those who want a sweet, fairy-tale-ish journey that transforms a dreary world into someplace vibrant.  Hand this one to your magic-loving tweens.  Of course, it comes with Oliver's signature gorgeous descriptive writing too:

Now she remembered.  And so she squeezed her eyes tight and climbed down the tower of months she had been in the attic, reaching back adn back into the rooms of her memory that were dusty and so dim she could catch only little, flickering glances of things. p 42-43

She repeated the word ineffable clearly, three times, in her head, lingering over the gentle slope of the double fs, like the soft peaks of the whipped cream she remembered from her early childhood, and this made her feel slightly better. p 44

Things I Didn't Like:
Po's "it" thing bugged me the most (neither girl nor boy, thus "it" throughout).  But not enough to make me stop reading.  In places it had some This Is The Theme going on and the ending was practically tied up with a bow (but not in a way that ruins it, somehow).  Overall, though, a fun read.

Read-alikes:
Reminded me a bit of The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: -> 
a little bit, nothing terribly frightening

Overall rating: ****

Were you a ghost story reader as a kid?  I think I avoided them, mostly cause I thought they were all "scary" (though this isn't really).

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Publication date: September 2011
ISBN: 9780545027892
Source: Library

Ben has been struggling to feel comfortable in his life, ever since his mother died.  Living with his aunt and uncle is strange and he feels alienated.  When a strange turn of events leaves him unable to hear, he sets off on a journey to find someone, though he isn't quite sure who.  His story intersects with Rose, who lived fifty years earlier with her father.  But she is not satisfied to have the quiet existence her father seeks for her and she sets out looking for something too.  Will they each find what they need?

Things I Liked:
The experience!  I loved reading and then watching the stories unfold.  The illustrations that tell Rose's story were almost more vivid than the words describing Ben's story.  It was a pleasure to read and watch the two different characters' stories collide and intertwine in unexpected ways.  The whole reading experience was great fun and completely different from anything I've read before (with the possible exception of The Invention of Hugo Cabret).  So much fun and such a great story, an especially good pick for reluctant readers, since those illustrations can really draw you into the story and keep you reading.

Things I Didn't Like:
I thought the story stumbled in a few places and if it had been all text, I might have lost interest.  But with the unique way it's told and the beautiful illustrations, I had to keep going.  (And I'm probably the only non-raving reviewer of this one - it seems everyone else adored it!)  A delightful new book!

Read-alikes:
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick is the only thing I can think of quite like it

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 
that I recall

mrg-factor: none 
just some wondering about parentage

v-factor: -> 
maybe a little frightening in places, but nothing violent

Overall rating: **** 

Do you ever wonder about all those books that fall below your adoring level, but are still good?  Do you forget about them or remember to recommend them?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Can You Survive: Jack London's Call of the Wild adapted by Ryan Jacobson + Giveaway

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Can You Survive: Jack London's Call of the Wild adapted by Ryan Jacobson
Publisher: Lake 7 Creative
Publication date: October 2011
ISBN: 9780977412235
Source: ARC provided by author

In this choose your path story, you become Buck, a dog about to set out on a perilous journey.  Throughout his travels and becoming a sled dog, the reader is given options to choose just what they would do and then see where they end up. 

Things I Liked:
This was a fast and fun read.  I'm going to admit that I think I've read maybe one other choose-your-story type of book and I honestly can't remember it.  Jumping right into the action of Buck's frontier adventure, kids will lose themselves in the excitement and danger of this cold, deadly place.  Interesting choices are laid before you and following each to see just where you will be was fun even for this boring old grown-up.  I definitely think this book will appeal especially to boys longing for adventures and it's a great introduction to London's classic tale.

Things I Didn't Like:
There were some places here and there that the writing was awkward and might be a bit hard for younger readers to follow.  Also, it was quite violent as the dog faces some very frightening foes.  It might be especially traumatic to animal-lovers and sensitive kids, since being written in second person can make it feel more personal.  I did notice, however, that the author noted the violence was toned down in the final edition.  A fun adventure story, all these things considered!

Read-alikes:
The Call of the Wild by Jack London
Choose your own adventure books by various authors

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: ->-> 
some incidents of animal fights and animal abuse

Overall rating: *** 

And, I've got a chance for you to win a copy of this book for the adventure-seeking tween in your life (or, you know, yourself).  Open to US only, fill out the form below by November 5th. 

For more stops on the tour, visit Ryan Jacobson's blog.

Were you a choose your own path/adventure/story reader?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Lost Heiress by Catherine Fisher

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Yeah, I'm continuing to cite this series as a great tween read, even if it's marketed as teen.

The Lost Heiress by Catherine Fisher
Publisher: Dial
Publication date: June 2011
ISBN: 9780803736740
Source: Library

Rumors abound in Tasceron that the heiress to the throne may still be alive somewhere.  Galen and Raffi, along with some old friends, must seek her out, before she is taken by the watch. 

Things I Liked:
I was intrigued once again with the unique setting Fisher has created here.  The world keeps getting more depth and background story with each addition to the series.  I love the strange creatures that are introduced, as well as the deceptions and mysterious motivations that so many characters have.  Raffi is such a contrast to all of those deceptive characters, by his simplicity and trust - I think he's the character that makes the series feel tween-y to me.  An interesting and odd cast of characters and world that continues to surprise me.

Things I Didn't Like:
I guess I can't help comparing this to my favorite Fisher books, Incarceron and Sapphique.  In comparison, this series is very simple, lacking the complexity and depth that those books hold.  I suppose this contributes to the fact that I think this one will appeal to younger teens and tweens, which is a good thing.  I'm interested enough to keep reading, but still think it can't compare with her other stuff I've read.

Read-alikes:
The above-mentioned Catherine Fisher books
Obviously, start with the first book The Dark City by Catherine Fisher

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe a few, but I can't really remember
mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
some action

Overall rating: ***

I haven't seen many reviews of this series - anybody else out there reading it?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Goliath by Scott Westerfeld

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Goliath by Scott Westerfeld
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication date: September 2011
ISBN: 9781416971771
Source: e-book provided by GalleyGrab

*Possibly spoilers for the first two books - ye be warned*
Alek and Deryn are both far from home on a voyage around the world to stop World War I.  Alek, who feels duty bound to stop the war, places his hopes in a crazy scientist with a big plan.  Deryn's disguise as a boy member of the crew is getting more dangerous by the minute - especially since she's in love with Alek.  With new characters and danger lurking everywhere, the two may not end up quite where they expected.

Things I Liked:
I'm not entirely sure what my favorite thing about these books is.  Honestly, it's just so much fun to read them it's almost like being on an adventure myself.  Deryn is such a prickly, smart, sassy, vulnerable and hilarious girl that you can't help but love her.  I adore her "cussing" and the plain way she talks, especially when others are dancing around a topic.  Alek is interesting in different ways - trying to find his place, wondering if he can make a difference, torn between two worlds.  And, of course, the story is so fascinating, so unexpected, and so unique that you dive in and can't surface until the conclusion is finally reached.  I loved every minute of this book and especially the illustrations, which can make some tricky concepts come to life.  A favorite series and I'm sure it will delight tween boys and girls alike.

Things I Didn't Like:
Not much.  I think a few times I was annoyed by decisions characters made, but that doesn't make the book any less enjoyable.  I honestly can't think of other things I didn't like!

Read-alikes:
Read Leviathan and Behemoth first
Reminded me of Larklight by Philip Reeve
Airborn and sequels by Kenneth Oppel

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
maybe one or two, but most "cussing" came in the form of "bum-rag" and such like

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: -> 
there is some action, but most of it is quite mild

Overall rating: ***** 

What do you think of steampunk: like it, hate it, don't know it?

Added bonus: Scott Westerfeld is visiting Arizona next week!  Check out the details for Oct 3rd visit at Changing Hands and the Barnes and Noble in Mesa for Oct 5th.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Radiance by Alyson Noel

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Radiance by Alyson Noel
Publisher: Square Fish
Publication date: August 2010
ISBN: 9780312629175
Source: ARC provided by publisher

Riley has finally crossed the Bridge after she died in a car crash and finds herself in the Here & Now, a place where everyone knows where they belong.  Except her.  When she is assigned by The Council to be a Soul Catcher, she and her geeky guide Bodhie have their first assignment to bring home a ghost who's been terrorizing people for hundreds of years, the Radiant Boy.  Can Riley finally help him move on and will she figure out what Bodhie is hiding?

Things I Liked:
I have to admit I had pretty low expectations of this one.  For the most part, I thought it was ok.  But, it did surprise me with a level of depth I didn't expect.  Some of the thoughts about grief and moving on and living life to its fullest were quite intriguing and I liked a few of the ideas behind Soul Catchers.  I thought it was interesting watching Riley spending her time helping others move on.  Kind of a unique book.

Things I Didn't Like:
I just wasn't too impressed.  Like I said, a surprising level of depth, but the story felt a little half-formed.  Not enough development and thought to complete the ideas it brought forth.  I'm not sure how tweens have reacted to this, but I'm sure many like it, possibly because of Noel's Immortal series.  It's nice for a light and clean tween girl paranormal read.  But for me, I think it needed a bit more substance to it. 

Read-alikes:
Immortal series by Allyson Noel
Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
maybe a little bit 

Overall rating: ***

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publication date: May 2011
ISBN: 9780312649616
Source: Review copy provided by publicist

When September decides to leave behind her dull life of cleaning teacups and a boring dog to fly with the Green Wind on a Leopard of Small Breezes, she is ready for adventure.  Landing in fairyland, things don't quite go as she expected, though she makes friends in a wyvern that's half-library and a water djinn.  On a reluctant quest to get back a spoon from the Marquess, she little expects all of the strange beasts she meets or the growing up she does.

Things I Liked:
This was such a fun, quirky, odd little story of Fairyland as you've never seen it before.  The strangeness and the humor are the greatest draw for the story.  I liked how nothing was expected and everything was new - it just has that unique charm that many classic fairy stories have, but seems indefinable to me.  For those who love the oddity of Alice in Wonderland and The Wizard of Oz, this will be an instant winner.  It also had a depth to the story that I wasn't expecting in such silly trappings.  Some fun quotes (I really love the second one):

One: There is a department in Fairyland entirely devoted to spiriting off young boys and girls (mostly orphans, but we have become more liberal in this late age), so that we may  have a ready supply of a certain kind of story to tell when winter comes and there is nothing to do but drink fennel beer and peer at the hearth.  Two: See above.  Three: Dry, brown places are prime real estate for children who want to escape them.  It's much harder to find wastrels in New York City to fly about on a Leopard.  After all, they have the Metropolitan Museum to occupy them.  Four: I am not being very nice at all.  See how I lie to you and make you do things my way?  That is so you will be ready to live in Fairyland, where this sort of thing is considered the height of manners. p 13-14

Stories have a way of changing faces.  They are unruling things, undisciplined, given to delinquency and the throwing of erasers.  That is why we must close them up into thick, solid books, so they cannot get out and cause trouble. p 36

Things I Didn't Like:
I didn't much care for the narrator, but I fell in love with September and especially Ell and Saturday.  At times, I thought things were a little too random and a lot of minor characters came and went (rather like a story with a quest where the main character meets people who help them along the way and then disappear).  Still, it was sweet, a bit creepy, and lots of fun to read.

Read-alikes:
The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: -> 
some serious injuries and such

Overall rating: ****

Would you have loved this as a child? I think I prefered quirky books more as a kid than I do now.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Leaving the Bellweathers by Kristin Clark Venuti

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Leaving the Bellweathers by Kristin Clark Venuti
Publisher: EgmontUSA
Publication date: September 2009
ISBN: 9781606840061
Source: Library

Tristan Benway, butler to the Bellweathers, has decided it's time to find a new position.  He's put up with dangerous animals inhabiting the lighthouse, tricks and antics from the obnoxiously loud triplets, and good deeds gone awry from their sister.  After all, there is only so much a respectable man can handle from this zany and incorrigible family, right?

Things I Liked:
This was a sweet, quirky, awesomely crazy middle grade read.  I adore the Bellweather family, complete with evil up-to-no-good whispering triplets, saving humanity sister, and endangered-dangerous-animal-lover brother.  This book inspired much laughter and made me want to be a kid again so I could love it properly.  A delightful romp that will make you think your family is very normal, even if the butler doesn't think so.  I loved this

Wanted: One gentleman possessed of nerves of steel and impeccable  organizational skills.  Applicant must know how to set a formal dining table as well as the best method of large-animal sedation.  Lunatic-asylum experience is helpful.  Interested parties please reply to Tristan Benway c/o Lighthouse on the Hill. p 68-69

Things I Didn't Like:
You know, I'm just going to stick with I loved every minute.  Sometimes being an adult can really be a drawback when enjoying a nice wacky kids book.  Hand this to your middle graders who like a bit of silliness.

Read-alikes:
Reminded me of Savvy and Scumble by Ingrid Law
Also a bit like the Secret series by Pseudonymous Bosch

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: none
(unless being snapped at by an endangered albino alligator counts...)

Overall rating: *****

What's your favorite quirky kid book?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage