Teen Read Week

   No matter what the pundits tell us, teens are STILL reading and enjoying a variety of books. The popularity of realistic fiction has bolstered teen reading statistics and has not been overlooked by the media. Several series have been made into extremely successful movies (Meg Cabot's Princess series and Ann Brashares' Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series) that have engendered even more interest in the books themselves. Other movies have revived interest in such greats as Tolkein's Lord of the Rings series, and Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Fantasy and Science Fiction are genres that are also flourishing with its very own teen-aged writer, Christopher Paolini, the immensely popular author of The Inheritance Trilogy (Eragon and Eldest are already out-readers eagerly await book three).

   October 16--22, 2005 has been designated Teen Read Week and is a program sponsored by The Young Adult Library Services Association. Visit their web site for more information: http://www.ala.org/ala/yalsa/teenreading/teenreading.htm

   Choose something from this small sampling of teen titles (some old and some new), then go to your local bookstore/library and settle in for some browsing through the many excellent books now available to tempt teen readers.

Contributor: Sheilah Egan

Reviews

NONFICTION

Here In Harlem: Poems In Many Voices
Walter Dean Myers
   Myers has won numerous awards for his fiction, but he has always been a poet, and in this collection he becomes a poet of Harlem, where he grew up and heard its pulsing rhythms. Inspired by the Spoon River Anthology of Edgar Lee Masters, Myers recreates the voices of Harlem dwellers he has known--from students and poets to artists and evangelists, street vendors and veterans, nurses and party girls. The poems are loosely connected by the testimony in six parts of a fictitious Clara Brown, who adds her perspective to life in Harlem through the years ("Yes, it's done changed some, honey / And rearranged itself some / But when I was young, I danced these streets"). Of the fifty-four poems, it's impossible to pick one favorite. Readers will have to find their own, perhaps drawn to the almost unbearable poignancy of "Terry Smith, 24, Unemployed" or the rueful cadences of "Helen Sweet, 27, Party Girl." The accompanying photographs from Meyers' own collection are piercingly evocative, although he says they aren't chosen as illustrations of particular poems. One can only marvel at the image of Al Sharpton as a boy evangelist, for example, or at the jacket photo of Duke Ellington posing elegantly with two of his singers in 1938. Even the endpapers demand attention, with "George Ambrose, 33, English Teacher" (Myers' lovely tribute to Yeats), superimposed on a map of Harlem. This beautifully produced volume with its vision of a vibrant and beloved community is outstanding in every way. 2004, Holiday House, $16.95. Ages all. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).

     Acclaimed author Walter Dean Myers offers a portrait of a vital community in Here in Harlem. His poems capture many moods and personalities, from musician Willie Arnold, with his "hot notes sailing like soulful birds" to hospital nurse Mary Ann Robinson, who watches as "Death spins the hands of the clock." Twelve-year-old students speak as do World War II veterans, a gossipy hair dresser and the father of a drug addict. Dancer-singer Clara Brown shares memories of Cotton Club racism, storefront churches and a jazz-loving mouse in reflections throughout the book. In her 87 years, she has seen Harlem deal with better times and worse. "Not to worry," she tells one resident. The community always survives. Read these poems during African American History Month in February--and all year long. 2004, Holiday House, $16.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature).
Best Books:

  • Best Books for Young Adults, 2005; American Library Association YALSA; United States
  • Best Children's Books of the Year, 2004; Bank Street College of Education; United States
  • The Children's Literature Choice List, 2005; Children's Literature; United States Choices, 2005; Cooperative Children's Book Center; United States
  • Kirkus Book Review Stars, November 15, 2004; United States
  • Notable Books for a Global Society, 2005; IRA Children's Literature and Reading SIG; United States
  • Notable Children's Books, 2005; American Library Association ALSC; United States
  • Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, November 15, 2004; Cahners; United States
  • School Library Journal Book Review Stars, December 2004; Cahners; United States
    Awards, Honors, Prizes:
  • Claudia Lewis Award for Poetry Winner 2004 United States
  • Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award Winner 2005 United States
  • Paterson Prize for Books for Young People Winner 2005 Grades 4-6 United States
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Tayshas, 2005-2006; Reading List; High School Level; Texas
    ISBN: 0-8234-1853-7

    Hole In My Life
    Jack Gantos; Read by Jack Gantos
       How do you tell your young readers that your writing career began in prison? If you're Jack Gantos, Newbery Honor winner and two-time Earphones Award winner, you have the trust of your readers and listeners to tell it straight. Some listeners may desire more emotional expression in Gantos's description of the "hole in his life" that led him to make his fateful error. However, the target audience, readers ages 13-17, will appreciate the simplicity of Gantos's storytelling. The reading portrays not the drama of a fictional character caught in a drug-smuggling operation, but the straightforward story of a regular kid tempted by an easy solution. K.C. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine 2003 (Orig. 2002), Listening Library, Three cassetes, 4.25 hrs., Retail pak, $25.00. Ages young adult. Reviewer: Kirsten Cappy (Audiofile, December/January 2004).
    ISBN: 0-8072-1644-5

    Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mount Everest Disaster
    Jon Krakauer
       To quote from the Sept., 1997 KLIATT review of the Bantam Doubleday Dell audiobook of this title: "...tragedy, stupidity, and arrogance.... This book describes Krakauer's Mt. Everest assault during one tragic day when a record 12 people died. It is a carefully researched, personal description of the details of that day. Krakauer originally wrote his story quickly for Outside magazine; he felt the article held too many mistakes so this book is his attempt to get the record straight. He comes close to explaining why people will continue to risk their lives, and some to die, climbing increasingly difficult sheer faces of mountains." KLIATT Codes: SA*--Exceptional book, recommended for senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 1997, Doubleday/Anchor, 384p. map. illus. bibliog. 18cm. 97-42880, $7.99. Ages 16 to adult. Reviewer: Jean Palmer (KLIATT Review, May 1998 (Vol. 32, No. 3)).
    Best Books:

  • Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002; California Department of Education; California
    Awards, Honors, Prizes:
  • Garden State Teen Book Awards Winner 2000 Non-Fiction New Jersey
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, 1999-2000; Nominee; High School; Maryland
  • Colorado Blue Spruce Young Adult Book Award, 1999; Nominee; Colorado
    ISBN: 0-385-49208-1

    King of The Mild Frontier: An Ill-Advised Autobiography
    Chris Crutcher
       Teenage fans of Chris Crutcher's books will enjoy this candid autobiography, which looks at his mishaps and adventures as a young boy growing up in Cascade, Idaho. Although his family life wasn't perfect, he seemed to find ways to compensate for his shortcomings and learn important lessons along the way. Whether he was "doing something neat" with his brother or making up book reports about fictitious novels, he always found ways to keep his life interesting. This compelling, and oftentimes hilarious book, presents detailed accounts of past events that shaped Crutcher as an author and as a human being, and describes his motivation and reasoning behind some of his most memorable learning experiences. Now a successful author of seven young adult novels and a collection of short stories, Crutcher draws from his experiences as a family therapist and child protection advocate to bring important topics to light. His wonderful sense of humor and great storytelling ability help create an absorbing book that is tough to put down. This publication also includes a few black-and-white photographs. 2003, Greenwillow Books, $16.99. Ages 13 up. Reviewer: Debra Briatico (Children's Literature).

       If you have read any of Crutcher's books, his autobiography won't be too surprising. It will be especially appealing to guys, because it appears to have a ring of truth--covering all those topics from sexual awakening to pranks at home and school. Chris Crutcher writes with flair but the book seems to have been written as separate vignettes, and when compiled, seems repetitive. He admits that he hates revision and that probably accounts for some of the repeated information. We know by the end of the book that he had a very bad temper, that he was called bawlbaby and grew up to be a therapist in the field of child abuse and neglect. His own childhood shows that he suffered at the hands of his mother, but he also greatly admired his older, stronger, sibling. His father was very rigid man and we learn that not only was his mother a heavy smoker but an alcoholic. That Chris Crutcher turned out to be the writer he is will amaze some readers, especially since he cribbed a whole year's worth of homework assignments from his older brother. The antics in high school, his lack of athletic prowess, the crushes and reflection are all on view. It wasn't easy growing up in a small town in Idaho in the 1960s. While I thought some of the stuff was downright stupid, I know there will be plenty of male appeal. My husband laughed himself silly reading the book. The one question that lingered with me was, what about his sister? She never seemed to be a fully developed character. His mother wasn't either, but you did feel like you got know the male characters. Fans will love seeing how incidents in Chris Crutchers' life ended up in his books. Most librarians will need multiple copies, and don't be surprised if some parent groups try banning this autobiography. Too bad, because it is interesting to learn more about the man who has written so many highly acclaimed books. 2003, Greenwillow/HarperCollins, $16.99. Ages 13 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
    Best Books:

  • Best Books for Young Adults, 2004; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • Kirkus Book Review Stars, April 1, 2003; United States
  • Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2004, 2004; H.W. Wilson; United States
  • Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2004; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
  • Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, March 3, 2003; Cahners; United States
  • Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2003 Supplement, 2003; H.W. Wilson; United States
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Abraham Lincoln Illinois High School Book Award, 2006; Nominee; Illinois
  • Garden State Teen Book Awards, 2006; Nominee; Non-Fiction-Grades 6-12; New Jersey
  • Tayshas High School Reading List, 2004-2005; High School; Texas
    Standards of Learning Information
  • Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2004; Individual Development and Identity-IV; Culture-I; Biography; National Council for the Social Studies
    ISBN: 0-06-050250-9
    ISBN: 0-06-050249-5

    Phineas Gage: A Gruesome But True Story About Brain Science
    John Fleischman
       Phineas Gage is an enthrallng book. It has some marvelous information about the brain, and the details about Phineas' accident is gut-churning enough to entice its audience. The picture placement, however, is a real concern. I was forever flipping back and forth to read the charts that spill over text left behind. Ultimately, though, I truly enjoyed the book and particularly liked the way in which it took a very old case (1850s) and brought it up to date in terms of modern brain science. The admission that what we know about the brain is still remarkably limited is very appropriate. 2002, Houghton, $16.00. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Joan Kindig, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).

       At approximately four thirty in the afternoon of September 13, 1848, twenty-six-year old Phineas Gage was about to experience a horrific injury. A capable foreman working with a railroad blasting crew in Cavendish, Vermont, Phineas was tamping down black powder when an explosion occurred. Phineas' thirteen pound steel tamping iron was thrown upward by the explosion and shot through his head. The tapered tamping iron pierced Phineas' left cheek and then continued on through his brain and out the top of his skull. Miraculously, Phineas was alive and, although terribly injured, able to speak and move about. Phineas was rushed to town where physicians treated him as capably as they could. To the amazement of everyone familiar with the incident, Phineas Gage recovered and lived for eleven more years. However, as his doctor noted, Phineas Gage was "no longer Gage." Phineas' demeanor and attitude toward others had changed from one of cordiality to one of abuse. Eventually, Phineas Gage died of the aftereffects of his grave injury. Yet, his story remains one of the most incomprehensible medical anecdotes of modern times. That story is artfully told in this outstanding illustrated text. Readers of this fascinating book will become acquainted with both the unbelievable tale of Phineas Gage as well as valuable information about the workings of the human brain. 2002, Houghton Mifflin, $16.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature).
    Best Books:

  • Best Books for Young Adults, 2003; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • Bulletin Blue Ribbons, 2002; Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books; United States
  • Capitol Choices, 2002; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
  • The Children's Literature Choice List, 2002; Children's Literature; United States Choices, 2003; Cooperative Children's Book Center; United States
  • Fanfare Honor List, 2002; Horn Book; United States
  • Great Middle School Reads, 2004; ALSC American Library Association; United States
  • Kirkus Book Review Stars, February 15, 2002; United States
  • Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2003; H.W. Wilson; United States
  • Notable Children's Books, 2003; American Library Association-ALSC; United States Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12, 2003; National Science Teachers Association; United States
  • Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2003 Supplement, 2003; H.W. Wilson; United States
    Awards, Honors, Prizes:
  • Children's Book Award Notable Book 2003 Intermediate Nonfiction United States
  • James Madison Book Award Honor Book 2003 United States
  • Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children Honor Book 2003 United States
  • Society of Midland Authors Book Awards Winner 2003 Children's Nonfiction United States
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Vermont
  • Garden State Teen Book Awards, 2005; Nominee; Non-Fiction; New Jersey
  • Louisiana Young Readers' Choice Award, 2005; Nominee; Grades 6-8; Louisiana
  • Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award, 2005; Nominee; Illinois
  • Texas Bluebonnet Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Grades 3-6; Texas
  • William Allen White Children's Book Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Grades 6-8; Kansas
    ISBN: 0-618-05252-6

    FICTION

    The Curious Incident of The Dog in the Night-Time
    Mark Haddon
       Christopher is a unique individual who happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. After being arrested and released for suspicion of murdering his neighbor's dog, Christopher decides he will write a murder mystery as part of his journal. His school counselor, Siobhan, encourages his writing, and Christopher takes his task seriously--trying to find the murderer of Wellington, the dog, just like his favorite detective, Sherlock Holmes. Christopher's father, for reasons of his own, does not want an investigation to begin or finish and discourages Christopher from finding the murderer. Even without approval from his father, Christopher logically thinks through everything and ends up on a quest to find the murderer, to find out about his mother, and to find out why people do the strange things they do. Christopher is not like another child trying to solve a mystery--he is autistic and, therefore, does not see the world the way most people do. His insights into everyday-life events are sweet, touching, and funny. While most of his journal is focused on the murder of Wellington, there are small bits of wisdom the writer, Mark Haddon, gleans from his knowledge of and work with autistic people. This unique look at the world would be an excellent edition for any library. Fiction. Grades 9 and up. 2003, Doubleday, 226p., $22.95. Ages 14 up. Reviewer: Melissa Johnson.
    Best Books:

  • Best Books for Young Adults, 2004 Top Ten; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • Editors' Choice: Adult Books for Young Adults, 2003; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
  • School Library Journal: Best Books, 2003; Cahners; United States
  • School Library Journal: Best Books-Adult Books for High School Students, 2003; Cahners; United States
  • Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2004 Supplement, 2004; H.W. Wilson; United States
    Awards, Honors, Prizes:
  • Alex Awards 2004 United States
  • Dolly Gray Children's Literature Award Winner 2004 United States
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Abraham Lincoln Illinois High School Book Award, 2006; Nominee; Illinois
  • Colorado Blue Spruce Book Award, 2005-2006; Nominee; Colorado
  • Eliot Rosewater High School Book Award, 2005-2006; Nominee; Indiana
  • Garden State Teen Book Awards, 2006; Nominee; Fiction-Grades 9-12; New Jersey
  • Great Lakes Great Books Award, 2005-2006; Nominee; Grades 9-12; Michigan Tayshas, 2005-2006; Reading List; High School Level; Texas
  • Wisconsin Battle of the Books, 2006; High School; Wisconsin
    ISBN: 0-385-50945-6

    A Great and Terrible Beauty
    Libba Bray
       Raised in India until her mother is killed and she is sent to a private girls' school in England, sixteen year-old Gemma struggles to come to terms with her mother's tragic death and the fear that her own visions portend doom. That's she being followed by a young man from India named Kartik adds to the mystery, especially as he seeks to warn her about keeping the visions at bay. Making friends among the class-conscious and competitive girls at the Spence Academy does not prove easy either. She finds--or is led to find by a ghostly child figure--a diary belonging to one of the girls who died in a tragic fire years before at Spence Academy, in the destroyed east wing that has never been reopened. Gemma and the clique of girls she joins delve into the story of the fire and the strange goings on. Gemma discovers that her own mother was connected to the mystery and to the occult through something called the Order. Gemma ventures to the other side to find out what happened to her mother and to learn about her own story. A well written page turner, with strong characterization and dialogue, this Victorian-era gothic novel will find many readers unable to put it down until the very last page. 2003, Delacorte Press, $16.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Valerie O. Patterson (Children's Literature).

       Sixteen-year-old Gemma Doyle is aching to leave India and visit the England she has only heard about. Tragedy strikes her family, and she is sent to the Spence Academy in London. Her arrival at school coincides with increasingly terrifying visions that began before she left India--visions that involve the supernatural. Bray elegantly recreates the social mores of 19th century Victorian England, and the story is a delicious blend of historical fiction, gothic novel, mystery, romance, and fantasy. The book is a real treat--intelligent and thought-provoking. The cover is great, too, hinting at romance but also a metaphor for the strict social structures of the time. A satisfying read that kept me truly engaged until the last page-and wanting a sequel! (Bray's Rebel Angels was released in 2005) 2003, Delacorte Press, $16.95. Ages 14 up. Reviewer: Jennifer Ralston (Children's Literature).
    Best Books:

  • Best Books for Young Adults, 2004; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, December 8, 2003; Cahners; United States
  • Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2004 Supplement, 2004; H.W. Wilson; United States
    Awards, Honors, Prizes:
  • Original Voices Award Winner 2004 Intermediate/Young Adult United States
  • Teens' Top Ten List Winner 2004 United States
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Colorado Blue Spruce Book Award, 2005-2006; Nominee; Colorado
  • Garden State Teen Book Awards, 2006; Nominee; Fiction-Grades 9-12; New Jersey
  • Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award, 2005-2006; Nominee; Young Adult; Pennsylvania
  • Tayshas, 2005-2006; Reading List; High School Level; Texas
  • Teens' Top Ten List, 2004; Nominee; United States
    ISBN: 0-385-73028-4
    ISBN: 0-385-90161-5

    Himalaya
    Jonathan Neale
       Haunting and stark like the mountains themselves, this novel faces the rawness of a family torn apart with both honesty and dignity. Alternating between the acerbic voice of 12-year-old Orrie and her sensible 13-year-old brother, Jack, the reader learns of their parents' divorce and the looming decision to have to choose one parent with whom to live. Neither living situation is perfect. Their mother has emotional problems. Their father lives in a different country with a young girlfriend, Libby. His attempt to break through to his children is to take them on an arduous and dangerous climb in the Himalayas, along with a somewhat reluctant Libby and the youngest sibling, 7-year-old Andy. Ill and ill-prepared, Jack is determined to stick with his father and their guide to the mountain's summit. Disaster happens and Jack is the one who must go for help. Too sick to attempt a rescue, Jack is nursed by a stoic and perceptive Andy, while Orrie and Libby trek through a blizzard to find the crevasse containing the injured father and guide. Their blunt discussion about leaving the men to die or choosing which one to save may be a bit shocking for younger readers but emphasizes the very real life or death situation being faced. In the end, Orrie and Libby save both men, and Jack survives altitude sickness. It is a gripping story of people beating the odds and pulling through for each other in spite of fear, anger, and resentment. 2004, Houghton Mifflin, $16.00. Ages 12 up. Kathryn Erskine (Children's Literature).
    ISBN: 0-618-41200-X

    Ironman: A Novel
    Chris Crutcher
       Bo Brewster is a young man determined to stand his ground. He's fought his overbearing, cruel father most of his life. When tangling with a sadistic teacher lands Bo in Mr. Nak's before-school Anger Management class, he faces the scrutiny of a group of hardened, hurting peers. Mr. Nak, an Asian cowboy, is an unconventional teacher who knows how to get issues and angers out in the open. His special brand of support transfers when his students decide they're going to back Bo in the hardest battle of his life, winning a triathlon against opponents financed by his father. Their plans are ingenious and the way they unify their strengths surprises both Bo and readers. Crutcher's books are not for the feint of heart. Situations and characters are tough. Like his hero, Crutcher doesn't back down from telling painful truths. He plunges in courageously as Bo faces his punitive father and dishonest opponents. Like his hero, he triumphs for all young adults whose parents have hurt them "for their own good." Crutcher writes with balance. He melds sports and psychology with fast-moving plots and humor to capture young readers. In the midst of the novel's pain, is gain. Bo triumphs not only in race, but also in personal growth. He learns how to take action, instead of being reactive. He moves beyond his limited vision and prejudices into deeper understanding of people, social systems, and emotions. He falls in love for the first time, sees the depth of a teacher's concern, and comes to grips with his mother's difficulties in nurturing him, while in the throes of an abusive relationship. 1996, Greenwillow/Bantam, $15.00 and $4.50. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Susie Wilde (Children's Literature).
    Best Books:

  • Best of the Best Revisited (100 Best Books for Teens), 2001; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • Booklist Book Review Stars, Mar. 1, 1995; United States
  • The Children's Literature Choice List, 1996; Children's Literature; United States
  • Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States
  • Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1995; National Council for the Social Studies NCSS; United States
  • Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults, 1999; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers, 1996; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • School Library Journal Book Review Stars, March 1995; Cahners; United States
  • School Library Journal: Best Books for Young Adults, 1995; Cahners; United States
    Awards, Honors, Prizes:
  • California Young Reader Medal Winner 1998 Young Adult California
  • Evergreen Young Adult Book Award Runner Up 1999 Washington Society of School Librarians International Book Awards Honor 1995 Secondary Language Arts: 7-12 United States
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • California Young Reader Medal, 1998; Nominee; Young Adult; California
  • Nevada Young Readers' Award, 1997; Nominee; Young Adult; Nevada
  • South Carolina Book Awards, 1998; Nominee; Young Adult Book; South Carolina
  • Tayshas High School Reading List, 1996-1997; Young Adult; Texas
  • Virginia State Young Readers' Award, 1998; Nominee; High School Level, Grades 10-12; Virginia
  • Young Adult Reading Program, 1996; Grades 7-12; South Dakota
    ISBN: 0-688-13503-X
    ISBN: 0-440-21971-X

    The Kite Runner, a Novel
    Khaled Hosseini
       To quote from the review of the audiobook in KLIATT, November 2003: A gripping testament to the power of place, this novel takes the reader to Afghanistan just before the Russian occupation. Two boys play in an idyllic Kabul neighborhood. One is Amir, the son of a wealthy businessman; the other, Hassan, is raised as the son of the household servant. The friendship is pure until a consciousness of class and ethnicity intrudes. Sweeping political changes mirror the tragedy of personal heartbreak. The novel educates the reader and is a tribute to the universality of human suffering, human foibles, and human heroism. It is a story with heroes and villains and ordinary folk trapped in dramatic circumstances. It is not too dramatic to say the world needs novels like this in the current climate of ethnic turmoil. Hosseini is a powerful writer who has offered a jewel to teachers of modern history and literature. Category: Paperback Fiction. KLIATT Codes: SA*--Exceptional book, recommended for senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 2003, Penguin, Berkley, Riverhead, 372p., $14.00. Ages 15 to adult. Reviewer: Nancy Chaplin (Kliatt Review, July 2004 (Vol. 38, No. 4)).
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:

  • Abraham Lincoln Illinois High School Book Award, 2006; Nominee; Illinois
  • Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award, 2005-2006; Nominee; Young Adult; Pennsylvania
    ISBN: 1-59448-000-1

    The Last Book in the Universe
    Rodman Philbrick
       In the backtimes, there were cures for health problems, people could move freely about, laws protected all citizens, water was clean and information was abundant. That was before the Big Shake. Whether a seismic event or nuclear blast triggered this Big Shake, the results were cataclysmic. Areas named Eden, Urb and Edge grew from the rubble, marking where proov, mopes, bangers and gummies survive. Gangs, their bosses, and mind probes rule in the latches; intimidation, theft, murder and drugging are normal course. In this suspenseful tale, Spaz grows beyond the confines of his social order and physical limitations to accept risk, overcome the odds and sustain a courage that enables him to face reality. He is aided in his quest by a gummy named Ryter, whose knowledge of the backtimes and ownership of a book at first intrigue Spaz. Fans of Philbrick's previous works (Freak the Mighty and REM World) will not be disappointed in this quick-paced drama. With the violence, drugs and stereotyping, this is not a tale for elementary students. Middle and high school students, however, will identify with Spaz and his quest to be released from his boundaries. 2000, Blue Sky Press, $16.95. Ages 11 up. Reviewer: Mary Sue Preissner (Children's Literature).

       Philbrick, the successful author of Freak the Mighty , offers another dramatic adolescent quest set in a post-Apocalyptic world. Like the inspiring Freak, Spaz is a "deef," a genetically defective boy handicapped by epileptic seizures, which prevent him from escaping into the addictive world of "mind probes." These alternate realities are a sort of mental drug, which allow users to forget the horrors of new Earth. Spaz has been rejected, both by his birth family and his foster parents because of his seizures. However, he retains a loving connection to his foster sister, Bean, and it is her illness that sends Spaz on an adventure into the dangerous "Urb," gang-controlled cities at war. Traveling with Spaz is the Ryter, an elderly scribe, and Lanaya, a beautiful improved human who promises that a cure for Bean's illness exists in the fabled Eden. The problem is that unimproved "normals," like Spaz and Ryter, are barred from Eden and the improved beings who live there are not long on compassion for the frightening residents of the Urbs. The Quixote-like trio (plus a mascot, named Chox) tilt, not at windmills, but at the moral self-righteousness of the ruling Masters who see natural selection as the only solution to the Urb-an problem. If, as they say, there are no original plot lines left in the world, Philbrick has borrowed the very best elements of "Logan's Run," "Blade Runner," and Fahrenheit 451, and stirred the ingredients into quite a new recipe for multi-layered futuristic adventure. Questions abound as to what responsibility technically-superior societies have to share their knowledge with less developed countries, and whether or not life and death decisions should be made to save lives, or let nature take its often cruel course so that only the fittest survive. The questions are ageless and, although this book seems aimed at an adolescent audience, it has the potential to entertain and involve a wider age group with drama that seems cinematic in its scope and execution. 2000, Blue Sky Press, $16.95. Ages 14 up. Reviewer: Lois Rubin Gross (Children's Literature).
    Best Books:

  • Best Books for Young Adults, 2001; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States
  • Best Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror, 2000; Voice of Youth Advocates; United States
  • Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
  • Not Just for Children Anymore!, 2001; Children's Book Council; United States Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2001; National Council for the Social Studies NCSS; United States
  • Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
  • Senior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Fifteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
    Awards, Honors, Prizes:
  • Lupine Award Honor Book 2000 United States
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Charlotte Book Awards, 2002; Nominee; Young Adult; New York
  • Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award, 2001-2002; Nominee; Vermont
  • Garden State Teen Book Awards, 2003; Nominee; Fiction, Grades 6 - 8; New Jersey
  • Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 2003; Nominee; Grades 4-8; Georgia
  • Lone Star Reading List, 2002-2003; Texas
  • Maine Student Book Award, 2001-2002; Nominee; Maine
  • Rhode Island Teen Book Award, 2002; Nominee; All Teens; Rhode Island
  • Young Hoosier Book Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Grades 6-8; Indiana
  • Sequoyah Book Award, 2003; Nominee; Young Adult; Oklahoma
  • South Carolina Book Awards, 2003; Nominee; Young Adult Book; South Carolina
  • Utah Children's Book Awards, 2003; Nominee; Young Adult; Utah
  • Virginia Young Readers Program, 2003-2004; Nominee; Middle (Grades 6-9); Virginia
    ISBN: 0-439-08758-9

    The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
    Ann Brashares
       Any story that begins "Once upon a time..." has to be good, and this one is. It is hard to imagine that one pair of thrift shop jeans could play such an important role in the lives of four teenage girls. The story begins before the birth of four teenagers when their mothers meet in an aerobics class. Although the mothers drift apart, the girls become close friends. A trip to the local thrift shop and one non-descript pair of jeans become the catalyst for a summer of change. How can one pair of jeans look so incredibly good on four different girls with four dramatically different figures? It's magical, at least that is what the teens think. "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" is born when the girls decide to send the jeans to each other over the summer. The journey of the traveling jeans takes the denim talisman from Greece where Lena discovers herself, to California where Bridget learns a life lesson, to South Carolina where Carmen must learn about family, and finally back home where Tilly discovers the real magic in them--or is it life? 2001, Delacorte Press, $14.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Rita Karr (Children's Literature).

       The traveling pants have returned in a paperback version that includes sixteen color photos from the new movie as well as a prologue and enticing first chapter from the Second Summerhood of the Sisterhood. In some cases, movie photos do the work of the reader's imagination. However, Ann Brasheres described the four teenage friends in such detail--and their appearance is so critical to both their characters and the storyline--that the casting director had very little leeway. Whether this is a first read or a hundredth re-read, teens (and adults, for that matter) will enjoy the energy and imagination of Lena, Bridget, Carmen and Tibby. The real substance of the story surfaces in the last few chapters, when these young women discover within themselves the real magic that the traveling pants only pointed to and movie photos can never really convey. 2005, Alloy Entertainment, $6.99 and $15.95. Ages 12 to 18. Reviewer: Karen Leggett (Children's Literature).
    Best Books:

  • The Best of Book Sense From the First Five Years, 1999-2004; Book Sense; United States
  • Best Books for Young Adults, 2002 Top Ten; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • Capitol Choices, 2001; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
  • Children's Book Sense 76 Picks, Fall 2001; Book Sense 76; United States
  • Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2001; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
  • Kirkus Book Review Stars, August 1, 2001; United States
  • Los Angeles' 100 Best Books, 2001; IRA Children's Literature and Reading SIG and the Los Angeles Unified School District; United States
  • Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2001; Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc.; United States
  • School Library Journal Book Review Stars, August 2001; Cahners; United States Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2003 Supplement, 2003; H.W. Wilson; United States
    Awards, Honors, Prizes:
  • ABC Children's Booksellers Choices Award Winner 2002 Young Adult Readers United States
  • American Booksellers Book Sense Book of the Year (ABBY) Award Winner 2002 Children's Literature United States
  • Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Winner 2003 Young Adult Maryland
  • Eliot Rosewater High School Book Award Winner 2004 Indiana
  • Evergreen Young Adult Book Award Winner 2004 Washington
  • Garden State Teen Book Awards Winner 2004 Fiction Grades 9-12 New Jersey
  • Gateway Readers Award Winner 2004 Grades 9-12 Missouri
  • Heartland Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature Winner 2003 United States
  • Iowa Teen Award Winner 2004 Iowa
  • Rhode Island Teen Book Award Winner 2002 Rhode Island
  • Young Hoosier Book Award Winner 2004 Middle Grades Indiana
  • Sequoyah Book Award Winner 2004 Young Adult Oklahoma
  • Volunteer State Book Award Winner 2004 Grades 7-12 Tennessee
  • Young Reader's Choice Award Winner 2004 Senior Division Pacific Northwest
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Blue Spruce Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Colorado
  • Arizona Young Readers' Award, 2005; Nominee; Teen Books; Arizona
  • Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, 2002-2003; Nominee; High School; Maryland
  • Colorado Blue Spruce Young Adult Book Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Colorado
  • Evergreen Young Adult Book Award, 2004; Nominee; Washington
  • Iowa Teen Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Iowa
  • Land of Enchantment Book Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Young Adult; New Mexico
  • Nevada Young Readers' Award, 2003; Nominee; Young Adult; Nevada
  • Pennsylvania Young Readers' Choice Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Grades 6--8; Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island Teen Book Award, 2002; Nominee; High School Students; Rhode Island
  • Young Hoosier Book Award, 2004; Nominee; Middle Grades (Grades 6-8); Indiana
  • Soaring Eagle Book Award, 2002-2003; Nominee; Grades 7-12; Wyoming
  • South Carolina Book Awards, 2003-2004; Nominee; Young Adult Book; South Carolina
  • Tayshas High School Reading List, 2002; Texas
  • Virginia Young Readers Program, 2003-2004; Nominee; High (Grades 10-12); Virginia
  • Volunteer State Book Award, 2004; Nominee; Young Adult, Grades 7-12; Tennessee
  • Young Adult Reading Program, 2003; Grades 7-12; South Dakota
  • Young Reader's Choice Award, 2004; Nominee; Senior (Grades 10-12); Pacific Northwest
    ISBN: 0-385-72933-2

    Stargirl
    Jerry Spinelli
       The new girl at Mica Area High School--MAHS for short--is unlike anyone Leo has ever encountered. She wears outlandish outfits, brings her pet rat to school, and sings "Happy Birthday" to students in the cafeteria, accompanying herself on her ukulele. Her family has no television set. She calls herself Stargirl, and no one will talk to her. Then an amazing thing happens, and the girl who everyone ignored becomes the most popular student at MAHS. Individuality awakens--nonconformity is accepted. Stargirl is the opposite of cool; she holds nothing back. And she loves Leo. Together Leo and Stargirl practice random acts of kindness, attempting to live as perhaps human beings were meant to. But when Stargirl is seen cheering for the opposing basketball team, everyone turns against her again. This time Leo is also a target of the students' hostile behavior. He tries to change Stargirl, to make her normal and popular. Magical girls are as rare as stars in the hand, and in the end, Stargirl must follow her own path, without Leo. It is a path that Leo sadly reminisces about years later. This book is a wonderful commentary on the beauty and dignity of humanity, as well as the difficulty in being unique in a society of joiners. 2000, Borzoi Books/Knopf, $17.99 and $15.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Christopher Moning (Children's Literature).
    Best Books:

  • Best Books for Young Adults, 2001 Top Ten; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
  • The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States
  • Capitol Choices, 2000; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
  • Great Middle School Reads, 2004; ALSC American Library Association; United States
  • Kirkus Book Review Stars, June 15, 2000; United States
  • Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
  • Not Just for Children Anymore!, 2001; Children's Book Council; United States
  • Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2000; Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc.; United States
  • Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, June 2000; Cahners; United States
  • Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
  • Young Adults' Choices, 2002; International Reading Association; United States
    Awards, Honors, Prizes:
  • ABC Children's Booksellers Choices Award Winner 2001 Young Adult Readers United States
  • American Booksellers Book Sense Book of the Year (ABBY) Award Finalist 2001 Children United States
  • Arizona Young Readers' Award Winner 2003 Teen Book Arizona
  • Charlotte Award Winner 2004 Young Adult New York
  • Garden State Teen Book Awards Winner 2003 Fiction/Grades 6-8 United States
  • Iowa Teen Award Winner 2003 Grades 6-9 Iowa
  • NAIBA Book of the Year Award Winner 2000 United States
  • Young Hoosier Book Awards Winner 2003 Middle Reader Indiana
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Abraham Lincoln Illinois High School Book Award, 2006; Nominee; Illinois
  • Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, 2002-2003; Nominee; High School; Maryland
  • Colorado Blue Spruce Young Adult Book Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Colorado
  • Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award, 2001-2002; Nominee; Vermont
  • Evergreen Young Adult Book Award, 2003; Nominee; Washington
  • Garden State Teen Book Awards, 2003; Nominee; Fiction, Grades 6-8; New Jersey
  • Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 2001-2002; Nominee; Grades 6-8; Kentucky
  • Lone Star Reading List, 2001-2002; Texas
  • Maine Student Book Award, 2001-2002; Nominee; Maine
  • Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award, 2003; Nominee; Illinois
  • Soaring Eagle Book Award, 2002-2003; Nominee; Grades 7-12; Wyoming
  • South Carolina Book Awards, 2003; Nominee; Young Adult Book; South Carolina
  • Utah Children's Book Awards, 2002; Nominee; Young Adult; Utah
  • Volunteer State Book Award, 2003; Nominee; Young Adult, Grades 7-12; Tennessee
  • Young Adult Reading Program, 2002; Grades 7-12; South Dakota
  • Young Hoosier Book Award, 2004; Nominee; Middle Grades (Grades 6-8); Indiana
  • Young Reader's Choice Award, 2003; Nominee; Intermediate Division-Grades 7th-9th; Pacific Northwest
    ISBN: 0-679-88637-0
    ISBN: 0-679-98637-5

    The Truth About Forever
    Sarah Dessen
       Macy begins her summer by telling her boyfriend, Jason, "goodbye" as he leaves to spend the next two months at Brain Camp. Jason is perfect in every way and makes Macy feel she has to be perfect too. She knows he challenges her, but she feels she needs this to avoid dealing with the death of her father. Her mother believes that the stress of her job keeps her from mourning his death. After receiving an e-mail from Macy ending in "I love you" Jason considers their relationship a distraction for him. He replies, explaining that they should take a break. When Macy decides to take a catering job, everything changes. She meets a fearless girl who informs her that it is impossible to be perfect. She also meets a guy who shows her how to remember her dad. Her mom observes these changes but does not see how much happier Macy is. If only Macy could get through to her mom, she would see that facing up to their loss is hard but necessary. I feel that Dessen does an incredible job of identifying the difficulties that come with losing someone. She points out how a person can react to a tragedy in many ways and how not reacting to the past can damage one's future. This book suggests that hope can follow loss. This novel captivates its readers by allowing them to get involved by placing themselves in the story. Although it will appeal most strongly to females, everyone can enjoy the entertaining elements throughout the narrative. 2004, Viking, $16.99. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Sarah Tuten (Children's Literature).
    Best Books:

  • Best Children's Books of the Year, 2004; Bank Street College of Education; United States
  • School Library Journal Book Review Stars, June 2004; Cahners; United States
  • Top 10 Youth Romances, 2004; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
    State and Provincial Reading Lists:
  • Abraham Lincoln Illinois High School Book Award, 2006; Nominee; Illinois
  • Beehive Award, 2005-2006; Nominee; Young Adult; Utah
  • Colorado Blue Spruce Book Award, 2005-2006; Nominee; Colorado
  • Tayshas, 2005-2006; Reading List; High School Level; Texas
    ISBN: 0-670-03639-0

    Updated 10/10/05