Very interesting book based on very few historical facts about the first Native American to graduate from Harvard. Once again Geraldine Brooks immerse...moreVery interesting book based on very few historical facts about the first Native American to graduate from Harvard. Once again Geraldine Brooks immerses herself in the historical time period to create richly drawn characters and settings. - Paula C. (less)
Laurie Notaro is a comedic natural. I saw her at a reading a Changing Hands last year and she had the crowd laughing in their chairs. The book will ha...moreLaurie Notaro is a comedic natural. I saw her at a reading a Changing Hands last year and she had the crowd laughing in their chairs. The book will have the same effect on you. The title alone gives you an idea of what you're in for. This is the story of Maye, who uproots her life in Phoenix to follow her husband to a new job in Oregon. Once there, she is determined to find friends but it's not as easy as it might seem. You'll laugh out loud at her zany attempts to try to fit in with the eclectic locals of the town. -Rossan S.(less)
Heads You Lose is unlike any other book I have read before. Every other chapter is written by the award-winning author of the Spellman books (1), Lisa...moreHeads You Lose is unlike any other book I have read before. Every other chapter is written by the award-winning author of the Spellman books (1), Lisa Lutz. In this crime caper novel, Lutz partners with a former romantic partner, David Hayward, who joins in to write the even chapters. The two agree to go with whatever plot developments the other has put forward and to not make any edits other than proofreading. At the end of each chapter, they discuss the project, while also analyzing their failed attempt at romance.
Honestly, I found the actual story a little hard to follow as each writer introduced or killed so many characters, that the story felt a little disjointed. But the banter between Lisa and Dave in the chapter-ending notes, and an unexpected ending left me with that old familiar Spellman feeling: laughing and shaking my head a little… (2)
--Lindsay M--
1. Which you simply MUST read, btw. 2. This may or may not be a feeling of shame (less)
Much of today's teen fiction features the tragedies in life, so it's always a pleasure to find a novel that's funny and fun to read! Our hero is Oliver...moreMuch of today's teen fiction features the tragedies in life, so it's always a pleasure to find a novel that's funny and fun to read! Our hero is Oliver Watson, an overweight twelve year old student, who pretends to be slow-witted, when he's actually extremely intelligent, fabulously wealthy, and something of an evil mastermind. His plot to become the class president ties in with his need for his father's recognition and approval. Many clever touches abound, including some quirky characters and situations (Oliver's dad manages the local PBS affiliate and the young man uses some of his wealth to bring an abrupt halt to a tedious pledge drive at the TV station). This fun, fast read is especially recommended for students in grades 7 – 9. -Louisa Aikin-(less)
In this narratively complex book, Jay Asher explores the theme of teen suicide brilliantly. Told through a series of tapes made before Hannah Baker's...moreIn this narratively complex book, Jay Asher explores the theme of teen suicide brilliantly. Told through a series of tapes made before Hannah Baker's suicide and one person's reactions as he listens to them, this is an engrossing and tragic story. It highlights how one’s actions can affect someone and create serious repercussions, even if they seemed inconsequential to others. In fact, that is the precise reason Hannah decides to chronicle her reasons to end her life -- so that the people who influenced it would understand the very real consequences of their actions. Hopefully, there is room for everyone to change. I burned through this book in less than a day -- definitely worth picking up.
A woman who seems to have an ideal life - married to investment banker with young daughter; wakes up 7 years in the past. She's free to choose her for...moreA woman who seems to have an ideal life - married to investment banker with young daughter; wakes up 7 years in the past. She's free to choose her former life - having an ex-boyfriend and fast-paced job. What happens? Appeals to someone who ever has wanted to redo the past.
This is a light hearted tale about Jenna, an environmentally conscious teen from New Jersey, who spends her summer vacation in a small town in the wil...moreThis is a light hearted tale about Jenna, an environmentally conscious teen from New Jersey, who spends her summer vacation in a small town in the wilds of Brisith Columbia. Jenna quickly learns that she needs much more than tofu and recycling to help her survive both the wilderness and the locals. A fun book to kick off your summer vacation! - Erin J.
I loved this teen book about what happens when a do-gooder environmentalist teen comes face to face with the realities of small town life and the clash between economics and environmentalism. I liked the way Jenna was able to realistically alter her views not only about what can and should be done to save the environment, but also about her own future.
A broken engagement, a dead body, and a country house party; what do all of these have in common? Miss Dido Kent, a spinster with an admittedly curiou...moreA broken engagement, a dead body, and a country house party; what do all of these have in common? Miss Dido Kent, a spinster with an admittedly curious nature, aims to find out. While the mystery was more cozy than I generally enjoy, and there was an odd sub-plot or two, I really enjoyed this book. Miss Dido is funny and intelligent and her voice will keep me looking for the sequel to this mystery.
This novel follows the journey of several families and their adoption of Chinese girls. Told from both the perspective of the birth mothers and the ad...moreThis novel follows the journey of several families and their adoption of Chinese girls. Told from both the perspective of the birth mothers and the adopting families. A beautiful and incredibly sad story, but ultimately hopeful. - Paula C.(less)
An interesting, personal story (with a bit of magic thrown in) about a girl who discovers that she is able to taste the emotions of the person who pre...moreAn interesting, personal story (with a bit of magic thrown in) about a girl who discovers that she is able to taste the emotions of the person who prepared her food. Sorrow, joy, happiness, fear, etc - she learns to deal with this new sense. You learn more about her family, and their interesting talents. A really fascinating story; and an easy read!
A pair of sisters lives in a privileged Atlanta neighborhood. The older, opinionated Carly is a modern flower child, wanting to cast off what isn’t “r...moreA pair of sisters lives in a privileged Atlanta neighborhood. The older, opinionated Carly is a modern flower child, wanting to cast off what isn’t “real.” The shy, sensitive Anna, beginning her freshman year, has developed a phenomenal bosom during the summer and struggles to feel and act as mature as she looks. The story does an admirable job of tackling “big” subjects, including: social status, religion, race and many kinds of love—between friends, significant others and especially between family members. Baby ducks make a memorable, touching appearance. –Kate D.- (less)
Trix is an orphan who, via a charity, is living at an upscale boarding school. As the people around her try to crush her dreams, she feels she is mean...moreTrix is an orphan who, via a charity, is living at an upscale boarding school. As the people around her try to crush her dreams, she feels she is meant for more. When a man in a silver mask shows up and tries to steal the meteorite her parents entusted to her, Trix discovers that her life is about to be changed in unimaginable ways.
Emma is living the life of her twin sister, Sutton. Her sister has been murdered- but only Emma knows. Well, and her killer. Thayer, a mysterious boy...moreEmma is living the life of her twin sister, Sutton. Her sister has been murdered- but only Emma knows. Well, and her killer. Thayer, a mysterious boy who shows up in her room one night, becomes the top suspect on Emma's list. The pile of evidence related to Sutton's death is growing, but none of it matches up. This series is a bit of Nancy Drew meets Gossip Girl. I would recommend for older teens, as there is some violence and dark themes. It is both a very fun and a very serious novel.
I was nearly a third of the way through this book when I began to realize why it had been a sensation over in Europe. Suddenly I couldn’t put it down!...moreI was nearly a third of the way through this book when I began to realize why it had been a sensation over in Europe. Suddenly I couldn’t put it down! The concept of two couples having dinner together to discuss their children does not sound that interesting, until you find out what the children did. This is definitely a book that will make you think, and would be great for book discussion groups.
Phenomenal Girl 5, aka Lainey Livingston, falls for her mentor, the Reincarnist, only to find herself battling villains seeking world domination, hero...morePhenomenal Girl 5, aka Lainey Livingston, falls for her mentor, the Reincarnist, only to find herself battling villains seeking world domination, heroes more intent on publicity than saving the world and her lover’s death and rebirth! This book was funny and poignant at the same time, keeping me hoping for a happy ending.
Daughters may think they know their mothers, but there is always a hidden part, like an extra section of fruit unevenly divided.
Approaching 60, Bois...more Daughters may think they know their mothers, but there is always a hidden part, like an extra section of fruit unevenly divided.
Approaching 60, Boise finally moves back, incognito, to her childhood home town in rural France. The exact circumstance of her family’s flight in the midst of World War II remains hidden, like that small section of the orange, until the climax of the book. Flashbacks triggered by Boise deciphering her mother's old recipe book gradually reveal both the character of the Nazi-occupied town and that of Boise's inscrutable and fierce mother. Ultimately, the recipe book reveals Boise to herself and allows healing to begin.
Harris' sure touch with her characters, setting, and plot make Five Quarters of the Orange a pleasure, but her intimate knowledge of the complexities between mothers and daughters make it resonate.
Two twin sisters, separated at birth. A mysterious video. A potential murder. A deadly game.
Emma's life as a foster child is shattered when she views...moreTwo twin sisters, separated at birth. A mysterious video. A potential murder. A deadly game.
Emma's life as a foster child is shattered when she views an online video of someone who looks exactly like her. Determined to follow the clue, she travels to Tucson, Arizona, where she finds herself sucked into another girl's life. Due to threats on her life from an anonymous, dangerous person, she continues to pretend she is someone she is not. She does not know what mysterious string of events led her to her current predicament, but she is forced to face the truth: if she doesn't get to the bottom of it, she will surely be the next victim. --Tiffany J.(less)
If you love food and a good romance book, this is the perfect read. The author, Nancy Verde Barr, was Julia Child’s executive chef, and she uses that...moreIf you love food and a good romance book, this is the perfect read. The author, Nancy Verde Barr, was Julia Child’s executive chef, and she uses that experience to shed light on all the prep work that happens behind the scenes during cooking shows. Although classified as romance, the romance part really is more of a side plot than the main plot. Humorous and entertaining, I only have one tip: definitely do not read when hungry!
The title of 17th in the series says it all; ‘Smokin’ is right!! This one finds Stephanie in a mess, as usual, but to add to it, now everyone in her l...moreThe title of 17th in the series says it all; ‘Smokin’ is right!! This one finds Stephanie in a mess, as usual, but to add to it, now everyone in her life is pressuring her to make a decision about the two sexy men in her life, Morelli and Ranger. This is more of the same for the series, but at least in this one Stephanie gets some lovin’ from her men. Also, this one feels more up to date because Stephanie finally uses a smart phone!
In the second installment of the Lying Game, Emma is still uncovering the perplexing circumstances surrounding her twin sister's death. Now that she i...moreIn the second installment of the Lying Game, Emma is still uncovering the perplexing circumstances surrounding her twin sister's death. Now that she is living her sister's life, and only her friend Ethan knows her true identity, she must deal with unpleasant consequences caused by her sister's behavior. A bitter ex-boyfriend, angry frenemies, a new love- the action never ends. But will she survive it? With suspense building bit by bit from start to finish, broken by scenes both romantic and funny, this book will appeal to older teens who love mystery and glamour. --Tiffany J.(less)
If you’re a fan of paranormal romance, this is a must read. Charley Davidson became a new favorite heroine of mine. She is extremely sarcastic and sas...moreIf you’re a fan of paranormal romance, this is a must read. Charley Davidson became a new favorite heroine of mine. She is extremely sarcastic and sassy, but still very likable. The plot was fast paced and action packed, and filled with hilarious twists. -Jennifer W.O.(less)
Ansel and Gretchen are on their way to the East Coast, having been kicked out by their stepmother. When their car breaks down in Live Oak, Virginia, t...moreAnsel and Gretchen are on their way to the East Coast, having been kicked out by their stepmother. When their car breaks down in Live Oak, Virginia, they don't know that the nightmares they have been running from have only begun. This modern twist on the classic fairytale, Hansel and Gretel, combines the sweetness of candy with the terror of what lurks, unknown, in the deep forest.
SEAL TEAM 666 is essentially Zero Dark Thirty meets the CW’s Supernatural. Weston Ochse has combined naval special operations with urban fantasy to pr...moreSEAL TEAM 666 is essentially Zero Dark Thirty meets the CW’s Supernatural. Weston Ochse has combined naval special operations with urban fantasy to produce an interesting genre. SEAL TEAM 666 has enough military action and supernatural suspense to hold one’s attention. SEAL TEAM 666 is therefore recommended to readers who enjoy, F. Paul Wilson’s, "Repairman Jack" series. – Leslie G.(less)
This is one of my all time favorite series. Miles is a hero with serious issues who has worked through a lot of them in the last few books. I like the...moreThis is one of my all time favorite series. Miles is a hero with serious issues who has worked through a lot of them in the last few books. I like the new Miles. We get a return of the Cetagandans, a return of old characters and a view of Mile's new marriage. This book goes back to action after the politics/romance of her last full Vorkosigan book, but Miles is not quite as crazy as he used to be. Nice to see him more personally settled while continuing to outthink everyone around him.--Rebekka (less)
First in Haynes’ Fortune Hunters series - He wants her father's business and passion. She wants children and fidelity. Lust turns into love and soon t...moreFirst in Haynes’ Fortune Hunters series - He wants her father's business and passion. She wants children and fidelity. Lust turns into love and soon their marriage of convenience becomes much more, but will they be able to withstand their family and friends' doubts and numerous hostile attempts to drive them apart? Check out this steamy corporate romance to find out!
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