This was an enjoyable read for fans of Matched and Delirium. Part dystopian novel, with royalty, a spunky female protagonist and an unlikely romantic...moreThis was an enjoyable read for fans of Matched and Delirium. Part dystopian novel, with royalty, a spunky female protagonist and an unlikely romantic match up. Definitely set up for a sequel, which I look forward to reading!(less)
This is not a book you can really say you enjoyed reading. The subject matter, based on the real life experiences of Arn Pond, is difficult, sickening...moreThis is not a book you can really say you enjoyed reading. The subject matter, based on the real life experiences of Arn Pond, is difficult, sickening, shocking and yet, so important to know about. I was a college student when the Khmer Rouge began the genocide of the Cambodian people, and I was mostly unaware of what was happening. The facts are gruesome and this account, fictionalized by McCormick, but unflinching, is hard to put down. Not sure if teens will take to this novel, but for those interested in human rights and the results of Arn Ponds contributions to the cause, this will be an inspiring tale.(less)
I loved this book. The characters are so unusual, so naturally developed, that they stay with you long after the book is finished. Moore creates a com...moreI loved this book. The characters are so unusual, so naturally developed, that they stay with you long after the book is finished. Moore creates a compelling story that surprises and delights, and has you rooting for characters that you care about. This could be YA or adult.(less)
Brilliant. Beautiful. I immediately went and bought a copy (autographed!) because I know I will want to reread it. Not only did it reference one of my...moreBrilliant. Beautiful. I immediately went and bought a copy (autographed!) because I know I will want to reread it. Not only did it reference one of my favorite poems (Lovesong of J. Alfred Prufrock), but also my all time favorite stanza from "Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird" by Wallace Stevens. I couldn't believe it, so had to have it :)(less)
The premise of this book, written in alternate chapters by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler is great. Josh and Emma are using their new computer, circa l...moreThe premise of this book, written in alternate chapters by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler is great. Josh and Emma are using their new computer, circa late 1990's, when they stumble upon something called Facebook, which hasn't been invented yet.They quickly realize that the postings there reveal facts about their future lives. The details they find create conflict, not only within themselves, but between each other. There are lots of things to like in this book: typical teenage behavior and drama, realistic issues with parents and friends and the world of teens before mega-technology. The mix of past, present and future makes an entertaining read, sure to be popular with teens.(less)
The best books about dying are really about living and this novel is the perfect example. I listened to the audio and lived inside the head of Tessa f...moreThe best books about dying are really about living and this novel is the perfect example. I listened to the audio and lived inside the head of Tessa for the duration. I love the English slant: the unfamiliar turns of phrase, the naked, truthful dialogue, the not-so-perfect parents, siblings and friends. Most of all, I love Tessa, who faces her fatal illness with both childish and mature thoughts and actions. I appreciated how the author lets her be a girl and a woman, both. Her unexpected romance is lovely, intimate and heartbreaking. Her death is vivid, emotional, honest. This is one that lingers with you.(less)
This sequel to Matched, which I loved, took a while to get rolling. The story is told in alternate chapters by Cassia and Ky. The first half of the bo...moreThis sequel to Matched, which I loved, took a while to get rolling. The story is told in alternate chapters by Cassia and Ky. The first half of the book is set in caves and caverns, as Cassia and Ky make their way to each other. It got rather long and a little boring (I hate to say that!).Once they meet up, the story gets more interesting and the reader learns some surprising things. New characters are introduced and fleshed out. I think reading the first book definately helps set up this story, although Condie tries to fill readers in here and there. A good sequel, but not a great one in my opinion.(less)
This book begins with what appears to be a hate crime in a small town where everyone knows everyone else. The victim is Patrick, a gay teen, with whom...moreThis book begins with what appears to be a hate crime in a small town where everyone knows everyone else. The victim is Patrick, a gay teen, with whom Cat was once friendly, but has dropped him as a friend. Actually, she has dropped all her friends and the reason becomes clear as the book progresses. Cat feels some guilt and decides she is going to find out who victimized Patrick, since the local law enforcement is weak or disinterested. The resulting story is very atmospheric, contains lots of twists and turns as the reader learns about the lives of teens and adults in their small, rural and poverty stricken town. Some parts of the story may be shocking to some readers and the language is raw and graphic. With a haunting sense of place, Myracle opens a window to a way of life many readers will be unfamiliar with. As she pushes buttons, she opens eyes.(less)
This is a superlative teen novel that somehow manages to be about the first romance and the deep grief of Lenny, not long after her sister Bailey unex...moreThis is a superlative teen novel that somehow manages to be about the first romance and the deep grief of Lenny, not long after her sister Bailey unexpectedly dies. The characters (even Bailey) are so fully fleshed out, so full of interesting qualities and quirks, that you just don't want their story to be over. As a teen romance, this is spot on. The use of poetry and music adds a dimension that only adds to how wonderful this first book by Nelson really works. The love triangle between Lenny, Joe and Toby is like a car crash you can't take your eyes off and really want to stop before the impact. Nelson is a writer to watch and I hope she is at work on another novel.(less)
I really enjoyed this book written from the perspective of Peter, Anne Franks housemate during their period of hiding. It really captured the grim rea...moreI really enjoyed this book written from the perspective of Peter, Anne Franks housemate during their period of hiding. It really captured the grim reality of their situation, but also the moments of normal teen attraction and blossoming first love. Dogar shows great respect for the subject, while also writing a very readable and insightful novel.(less)
This was a surprising and fun read about a teen in a boarding school, navigating the social hierarchy and male dominant, clubby school culture. Franki...moreThis was a surprising and fun read about a teen in a boarding school, navigating the social hierarchy and male dominant, clubby school culture. Frankie is beautiful and happy that one of the most desirable boys in her school has his eyes on her. As she starts dating him and being absorbed into his group of rich friends, she realizes that he doesn't really take her seriously in her own right. She hatches a plan to infiltrate the campus secret society and uses her brains to completely outwit the clueless boys. The result is surprising and eye-opening for Frankie and the reader. A real girl power title, but also informative for adults who need to be reminded about what teens go through on their own way to adulthood.(less)
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