The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

I absolutely love this book! I listened to it as an audiobook and it was an amazing experience. Since Sherman Alexie actually reads the story himself, it's a great narrative and absolutely hilarious to listen to. I was also intrigued by the images that are scattered throughout the novel. I think teens would really enjoy reading this book. It's sad; it's funny; and it has a great message.

Junior is faced with a number of challenges: learning disabilities, family challenges, moving to a new school, making (and keeping) friends, and interacting with girls. All of these issues would easily be relatable to other teenagers.

Seeing as this novel is really a memoir and based on Alexie's own experiences as a teenager, I think this novel is incredibly realistic. I'm sure that Alexie takes license with some of the stories, but overall Junior reacts in the same way any teenage boy would be expected to. Certainly, teens would enjoy listening to his experiences and comparing them with their own.

I would promote this book by sharing an excerpt of the sound recording to teens. I think that Alexie's reading would immediately engross teens. I would also project pictures from the book that go along with the recording I selected. The humorous images would definitely help sell the novel!

5Q, 4P, J/H

American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

This book was a bit difficult to follow in the begining, with all the different plot lines, but I was impressed with the way it came together at the end. I think that teens would be drawn to this book mainly because of the images. The color illustrations were beautiful and eye-catching. Many reluctant readers would be willing to pick this book up!

This book addresses the issues of loyalty, heritage, life choices, and the interconnectedness of our decisions. It was interesting to see how the choice that one character made effected all the other characters.

Obviously, the story is not entirely realistic. I thought that the emotions of Jin Wang and Danny were entirely believable. Teenagers would most likely feel the way these boys do and react in the same way. I thought that they were well-depicted.

I think that this graphic novel would really sell itself if it was displayed well. Like I mentioned, the color illustrations are so intriguing that I think a teen would easily pick it up and be enticed to read it a bit more. It might also be a good idea to set up the story a bit for the readers so they understand that three different tales are going to be told--this would help allieviate reader frustration that might occur.

5Q, 4P, M/J/H

Annie on My Mind by Nancy Garden

This book would appeal to teens that are experiencing conflicts with their sexual identity. If they were questioning their homosexuality, this would be a book they might be interested in. It could also be interesting to someone who wanted to read a (rather unconventional) romance, as well.

The book addresses the following developmental markers: establishing life-long relationships, exploring sexual identity, making life-long decisions (college, relationships, etc), and redefining boundaries with adults.

I thought the characters were somewhat believable. I didn’t fully appreciate the main character Liza. She didn’t seem to struggle with her sexual identity in the way I might have expected for someone who experienced what she did. She seemed to be confronted with the question, “Am I gay?” and immediately decided “yes” because it was easier to do than never see Annie again. I would have expected more emotional turmoil. Instead, the book seemed to focus more on the ramifications of her decision, rather than the actual process of making the decision. I would have like there to be more depth to her deliberations.

I don’t know that I would promote this book to teens. I have to say that it really wasn’t one of my favorites. I’m glad that I’ve read it and would be able to direct library patrons to it if they had a specific need, but I don’t know that I would feel comfortable giving a book talk or generically recommending it. It would be good to pair it with other books on similar topics though, perhaps for a book display on questionable/banned books, or something similar.

4Q, 2P, S

The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Vol. 1: The Pox Party by M.T. Anderson

I think that teens would be interested in this little-known aspect of history. I certainly wasn't aware of the types of experiments that were being conducted by the members of this society. The historical fiction is really well researched and I was impressed with the way in which Anderson completely recreates the 18th century syntax and speech style. I have doubts though, about how well this book would appeal to most teens. It is definitely a more advanced text and I really only see advanced students turning to this type of novel. I struggled to become engaged with the book and I think many other teens would as well.

The book addresses independence, overcoming the death of a parent, and deciding what to do with your life and the course you want to take. Octavian is also confronted with the racism of the day's society and he must learn how to handle that as well.

I thought that Octavian was believable. He certainly reacted the way I would have in similar situation, but I wasn't all that attached to him. I found the novel a bit of a struggle to finish, right up until the very end. This makes me a bit anxious to read the sequel. I would like to know what happens to Octavian, but I don't want to have to wade through a whole lot of similarly boring text at the beginning.

I would promote this book to teens in conjunction with some non-fiction titles about the different science experiments that were happening at the same time. I think students would be most intrigued to read this novel for that reason. It might also be nice to play some of the music that Octavian plays on his violin. Students might like to hear the type of music that Octavian was so good at--especially the Devil song.

5Q, 3P, S

Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale

I really enjoyed reading this book and I think younger/lower-level teenage girls will like reading it too. I found the romance to be appealing and motivating, and the story line was interesting. Since fantasy fiction seems to be so appealing these days, I'm sure many other teens will like this novel.

This book deals with loneliness, managing the death of one's parents, growing independence, making life-altering decisions, loyalty and growing responsiblity for taking care of others.

I thought that Dashti was a admirable character, if a bit difficult to believe. To be so committed to her mistress, that Dashti would be willing to stay shut up in a little cell for seven years is a bit difficult to believe. I guess, it is a fairy tale, but still! I think I would have left Lady Saren a long time before I was shut up in the tower. I was impressed with the way that Dashti cared for her mistress and managed to survive despite the terrible circumstances.

I would probably promote this book in conjunction with a number of other "fairy tale" novels. There seem to be so many out there right now, like A Curse as Dark as Gold. It would also be interesting to read these retellings in conjunction with the original fairy tale. Teens might like to compare the two.

4Q, 4Q, M/J

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

I think that the book would appeal to teens because of the situations in which Liesel finds herself. Certainly, teens are always interested in learning more about Nazis and WWII. I also think that teens would be drawn to the book by the way it depicts Death—it certainly is a novel approach. Also, there are a number of drawings and images throughout the novel that might interest a more reluctant reader. Reluctant readers could also relate well with Liesel and her struggle with written language.

This book addresses these developmental aspects: dealing with death, surviving on your own, repentance and forgiveness, human compassion, and the hunger for education.

I think that the characters are believable. The figure of Death certainly requires the suspension of reality, but other than that, I think the book depicts normal people living in less than ideal situations. If anything, I was a bit surprised that the people of Himmel street were so hospitable and welcoming of one another after the atrocities I’ve heard about German citizens enacting against their neighbors.

I would promote the book by briefly telling about the plot line. I think it might also be interesting to select a short passage to share with teens—perhaps one from the perspective of death would entice teen readers. Or maybe showing the teens one of the pictures from the novel would interest them in reading the book.

5Q, 4P, J/S

A Curse Dark as Gold by Elizabeth C. Bunce

I think there is definitely a trend moving more towards fantasy and this book fits nicely into that. Based upon the story of Rumpelstiltskin, this book is intriguing. While the story is a bit dark, it doesn't overwhelm the reader. I think that teens would like the mixture of romance and independence that Charlotte experiences as the story progresses. It is a unique and well-told tale.

Charlotte deals with the death of both her parents, gaining independence, responsibility for family and neighbors and making her own way in the world. I was particularly impressed with her sense of responsibility and gumption. She was willing to work hard and overcome the trials that faced her, characteristics that any teens could easily benefit from.

I thought that Charlotte was very believable. Obviously the book is something of a fairy tale, but I think that Charlotte was realistic in the way she reacted to the situations that confronted her. I found her husband to be particularly likeable and I appreciated his and Charlotte's relationship (even if it did happen a bit too quickly for my liking).

I would promote this book along with a number of other "fairy tale" novels. I think it would go along nicely with a book like Book of a Thousand Days, Briar Rose, The True Story of Hansel and Gretel or Graceling. These novels would mostly appeal to young teenage girls who like the sort of mythical fantasy, that doesn't really go overboard, present in the stories.

5Q, 4P, M/J/S

Death Note, Volume 1 by Tsugumi Ohba, Takeshi Obata

Manga novels are really popular for a large number of teenage readers and I think that this one would be a favorite. Reluctant readers could easily be persuaded to read a book that has so many images and so little text. The plot is also intriguing and I think teens would like to follow the story of Light and the Death Notebook.

The book addresses questions of morality (should Light use the notebook?), pressure to conform and do well in school, justice, and growing independence.

I didn't think the characters were particularly believable, but it is a comic book. Certainly, the shinigami are make-believe and not the most credible characters. I can see how a teenage boy, such as Light, could get wrapped up in using the Death Notebook like he does, though. I thought that was believable.

I know that The Death Notebook has been made into a television series (although I wasn't all that impressed with it), so it might be interesting to play a clip of the show for teens before recommedning the book. Telling the basic plot line of the story would also be interesting.

3Q, 4P, J/S

Ender's Game (Ender's Saga, Book 1) by Orson Scott Card

I think that this novel would really appeal to boys. They would like the relationships between the boys in the novel and I think that they would be interested in the ways that the boys fight and their Battles during school. Girls would be interested in the novel because of the compassion I think they would feel for Ender and his situation.

The book addresses the concerns of children having to grow up a bit too young, the feelings of ostracizing that many teens may experience, and the desire to be understood as an adult at a young age.

I think the characters are believable, even though their situations may not be. The only aspect I found it difficult to overlook was Ender’s young age. I don’t really think that a six-year-old boy really could be expected to handle things the way he did. Certainly, though, his emotions were believable and I could imagine acting and feeling that way if I was in his same situation.

I think that this book would be really easy to promote to teens that were fans of science fiction—after all, this is one of the most praised science fiction novels ever written. I also think this book would appeal to anyone who enjoyed the Harry Potter books. Certainly, Ender is something like Harry, in that he is the only one who can save their society. Also, the aspect of having to suspend reality for this book is similar to the way that you need to enjoy Harry Potter.

5Q, 4P/5P (when it was more new and current), J/S

Fallen Angels by Walter Dean Myers

I think that this book would be appealing to teens who are interested in warfare or what happened during the Vietnam War. Boys would also be interested in the relationships that Perry develops during his time in the military. This would be particularly appeal to teens because of the current conflict/war in Afghanistan and Iraq.

This book addresses the need to be a strong older sibling, loneliness, questioning what you want to do with your life, dissatisfaction with you position in life, and the need to develop friendships to survive.

I thought the characters were definitely believable. Although I have never fought in a war, I could imagine feeling the same way that Perry did in many situations. I thought that he was authentic and honest. This story certainly relates well to other novels I’ve read about the Vietnam war and what it was like—particularly, The Things They Carried.

I would promote this book by pairing it with similar fiction. I would go hand in hand really well with a book like The Things They Carried, or the new novel Walter Dean Myers wrote about fighting in Iraq. Both books would led further insight into Fallen Angels and interest teens in reading more, I think.

4Q (I didn’t enjoy it nearly as much as The Things They Carried), 4P, J/S

The Hunger Games by Suzzane Collins

I think a large number of teens (females in particular) would be drawn to the book by the love triangle that exists between Katniss, Peeta and the boy Katniss left behind at home. Boys, especially, would be drawn to the Games themselves. The fighting, weapons, and intiguing involved would certainly interest them.

While not many (or any) students will have to experience the same thing Katniss did, it is reasonable that they would have to make tough decisions and function based on their skils as Kat did. Learning to survive on your own becomes a major theme to this novel.

While the plot my be fantastical, the story is told in such a realistic way that teens would easily be able to relate. Katniss sturggles to make decisions, just as many teens would too.

I think setting the stage and explaining the basic plot line would be enough to intrigue students to read this book--I know it worked for me. The idea of fighting to the death like gladiators is so horrific that I think many readers are immediately drawn in.

VOYA Codes:
5Q, 5P, M,J,S

By far, this is one of the best page turners I've come across lately. I was literally unable to put the book down and I can't wait to read the sequel when it comes out in September!

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

I think this book would appeal to a younger population of teens or perhaps young adults that struggle to read or maintain interest in what they are reading. The pictures really help carry the story and I think that would interest a number of younger readers. Although, the story line is so poignant that older readers can enjoy it just as thoroughly.

This book deals with the loss of family and learning to function independently. Hugo is alone and longs for someone to care for him, yet at the same time he is hesitant to trust adults. I think many young adults are the same way.

I think the character is believable. At first I was was a bit skeptical of the automaton he was trying to recreate, but then when I found out that such an invention really exists the story really came together for me.

As I mentioned, I was very interested in the actual automaton. I would used that to help entice students to read the book. Online you can find a video of the automaton in action. I think that would be a great way to introduce the book in a book talk.

VOYA Codes:
5Q, 5P, M

This is probably one of the best books I've read in a long time. The story moved me to tears and I loved looking through the pictures.

Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta

I think this book would appeal to many teens because the central issues of the novel are timeless and cross cultural and racial barriers. I know that many people have been turned off by the confusion of the first few chapters, but I disagree, I think with the proper preparation, teens could really enjoy this book a lot.

The book deals with the following developmental markers: surviving on your own/becoming independent, reconciling with your past, developing positive adult relationships, forgiveness, and understanding.

I thought that the characters were believable. Taylor really appealed to me and drew me into the story. I wanted her to do well and succeed. I also liked the relationships amongst the characters; I thought they were realistic and believable. I was a bit doubtful that there would really be “territory wars” as described in the book, but upon understanding the history behind their creation, I can see how that would really happen too. In a sense, Taylor’s experiences could be a representation for the types of conflict that occur on a much larger scale around the world.

I would promote this book in conjunction with other similarly themed novels: The Outsiders, Miracle’s Boys, or Westside Story, etc. I think that describing the basic plot and the way in which Marchetta has established the plot structure would be enough to entice a reader to want to pick the book up. I certainly enjoyed the novel, and I’m sure many others would too.

4Q, 4P, J/S

A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah

The horror of Ishmael's situation and the trials he faces as a young teenage would certainly appeal to a vast audience. I will admit, though, that it takes a strong stomach to read through his autobiography. I think that teens might have a hard time relating to the situations in which Ishmael is placed, but they would certainly be interested in following his unique story.

This book, like many others, focuses on the need for Ishamel to survive on his own and grow up at a young age. It also highlights the need for teens to have a support group of friends who can help them with the trials they face.

The characters are definitely believable--it is an autobiography. Ishmael does a nice job of depicting his emotions and lending crediblity to the situations and experiences which he faces.

I think that if you just told the teens about the premise of the novel--its about a young boy driven from his home who is forced to become a boy soldier in the Sierra Leon war--many young adults would be interested in finding out more about it.

4Q, 4P, J,S,A/YA

Miracle's Boys by Jacqueline Woodson

I think this book would appeal to teens because it deals with issues that are wide-spread and common, no matter where you live. People have always dealt with racism, orphanage, family connections, etc. The reality of the book was appealing to me. So much so, that I was disappointed the book wasn’t longer. I wanted to know more about Laf, Charlie, and Ty’ree.

The book deals with the following developmental aspects: familial love and responsibility, growing up and being independent, forgiveness and repentance, overcoming emotional conflicts and memories.

I thought the characters were incredibly believable and realistic. I think that the author, Jacqueline Woodson, did a nice job of depicting the reality of their situation. The dialogue between the characters smacked of authenticity; I could visualize their life and their reality just by the way they spoke with one another. I could hear them speak with one another and they came to life for me. I was amazed at their “centeredness” and the smart decisions the boys made on their own, when placed in their situation, though. It certainly made me want to see them succeed later in life.

I think this book could easily be promoted alongside other books/stories on similar topics: West Side Story, Jellicoe Road, or The Outsiders. The message and moral of this story could cross over into many different races and groups of people. I would probably speak of this one in conjunction with other similar novels.

4Q, 4P, M/J/H

Skulduggery Pleasant (Book 1) by Derek Landy

This book is definitely for a younger-age reading audience. Those who like supernatural stories will probably like this one. It is definitely a little quirky! The book was humorous and the characters were engaging. I wouldn't say it is my favorite though. Younger teens will like the wacky humor and the way in which the characters have special powers. I think they will also be interested in the fact that this book has sequels. If they like the first one, they will perhaps like to read the next novel.

The work addresses gaining independence from parents, developing a new understanding and outlook on the world and redefining yourself and beliefs. While these were all included in the novel, I would say that the point of the book was to entertain, not to teach readers any sort of moral or life lesson.

Obviously, the characters can only be as believable as a walking and talking skeleton can be. I thought that the girl, Stephanie, was endearing and believable. She was a heroine that both females and males could relate to.

I think I would probably promote this book by introducing Skullduggery Pleasant. He is really an intriguing character and I think students would want to read the book after being introduced to him.

3Q, 4P, M

Sold by Patricia McCormick

I think that teens like to learn about other cultures and ways of life. This novel is definitely one that presents a little-known culture. I think many teenage readers would be interested to know what happens to young, poor Indian girls. The novel is short and a quick read, but also powerful. Teens would easily be moved by reading a novel such as this one.

The book addresses living on one's own, family/personal honor, trustworthiness, gaining independence and growing up at too young of an age. Lakshmi is certainly a character who has to overcome a number of different obstacles that few young, American women face today. Nevertheless, the challenges that Lakshmi faces can easily relate to other teens throughout the world.

While it is hard to swallow the choices that Lakshmi faces and to truly understand how she can make the decisions she does, since the cultures are so different and Americans would never react quite the same way, it is good to experience something new. I think that within the context of Lakshmi's culture and upbringing, her choices and actions are definitely believable.

I think that, due to the nature of the content of this novel, I would promote this book to older and more mature teens. It might be interesting to read in conjunction with books about other cultures and the women in them, like A Thousand Splendid Suns. Readers might be intrigued with this novel if they were presented with a list of the expectations of young women in Indian culture.

4Q, 4P, J/S

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

I think this book would really appeal to teens because it deals with heavy issues of interest to young adults--finding friends, trusting adults, and dealing with invading situations, such as rape.

The work addresses teens desires to remain independent and their unwillingness to trust adults with the issues they face. It also highlights the peer pressure high school students face to fit in, make friends, and be "popular."

I think that the character is completely authentic. She is incredibly witty for a ninth grader, but her feelings emotions, and actions are thoroughly teenager-ish. He hatred of the school and her teachers really resonates with teen readers as well.

I would promote this book by setting up the mystery. Melinda doesn't explain what happened to her until a ways into the novel. Students are intrigued to find out what actually happened to her during the party over the summer.

VOYA Codes:
5Q, 4P, J&S

All in all, I thought this was a fantastic read. I really enjoyed Speak and recommend it to all.

Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes by Chris Crutcher

I think that teens would be interested in the book because many of them feel the same way that Sarah and Eric do--like they don't really fit in anywhere. The story is gripping and students would want to know what happened to Sarah in her past. I think it would best appeal to older readers who can handle the truth of Sarah's past and the profane language.

The work addresses a number of developmental markers: independence, sexual growth, and friendships and loyalty. Friendships and loyalty become a major issue in the novel as Eric has to decide how to handle his changing friendship with Sarah, should he just let her go, or is their relationship worth fighting for?

I thought that the characters were believable. It was very easy to have sympathy for Sarah's situation and feel moved by the story and plot line. Eric seems to be a regular senior guy. He thinks like a guy would and I thought that his voice was very authentic. Chris Crutcher does a nice job of vacillating between emotional turmoil and a typical guy attitude.

I would most likely promote this book as part of a collection about abuse or appreciating others' differences. I recently saw a teacher who created a book list for her students on these topics. I think it brought together a really riveting collection of novels that students would be interested in reading. I would say that this novel would definitely fit within that category.

5Q, 4P, S

Thin by Lauren Greenfield

I think that this book would really appeal to teenage girls, seeing as anorexia and body image are such common problems with this age group. The pictures are gripping and the way in which the story is told (through first person accounts of anorexic girls and their journal entries) is not only believable but also very powerful. The book is a quick read (I read it all in one evening) and I think it would also appeal to a reluctant reader; the images definitely help to break up the text.

The book address self-confidence, coming to terms with your own body image, and maturing. Many of the women in the book are anorexic because of abusive relationships or sexual encounters in their past. I think it takes someone with a strong stomach to deal with the content of the book, but that the message is powerful. So many young women today need to be told that they don't have to look like the stick figure women in popular media to be healthy and attractive.

The book is definitely credible. As I mentioned earlier, the entire story is told through journal entries, photos, and first person accounts of the ladies own battles with anorexia. While many of their thought processes are difficult to believe (anorexia is a mental disorder) it is impossible not to find their voices authentic.

I would promote this book to teenage girls (I don't know that boys would be very interested in it) by showing them a number of pictures. The images themselves are very gripping and I think that many might want to read the book for that reason alone. I think that this non-fiction account could also be linked to a similar fiction novel, like Laurie Halse Anderson's newly published Wintergirls.

4Q, 4P, S

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

I think this book would appeal to teens because it deals with real issues and real life. Plus, it introduces teens to a new culture (Afghanistan) that they might not be too familiar with but probably have heard about a lot in the news. I think this book provides a real look into life in Afghanistan during the current time.

This book addresses issues of standing up for yourself, fighting to survive, and growing up on your own. I don't know that many of the issues that main characters face here would easily apply to teen readers (they aren't likely to marry young and experience marital abuse), but they would be interested in the content and reality of the characters.

I think the book is authentic. The women of the novel speak true to me. I feel compassion for their situation and wanted them to succeed. Although Hosseinni is male, I think he did a nice job of translating the narrative to a female perspective. I felt it was real.

Perhaps teens are already familiar with "A Kite Runner" or may have even seen the movie. If so, they might be interested in reading something else along the same lines. If not, they could be enticed to read the story just based on the fact that it is a new culture and lifestyle to learn about.

5Q, 3P, S & A/YA

The White Darkeness by Geraldine McCaughrean

I think that teens would relate well to the adventure and mystery of the story. I would assume that most teens don't know a whole lot about Antartica and might be enticed to read this book because they don't already know too much about it.

The book addresses a teens' growth in distancing themselves from parents, exploring life on their own, making a stand on issues of importance to them, and developing more adult relationships.

I don't know that the character's were very believable. I think that Sym was a rather frustrating character. The entire novel I just wanted to shout at her, "Just tell your uncle NO! You don't have to take that!" I certainly wouldn't have behaved the way she did during the course of the novel. I also think her uncle was a bit too much on the crazy side. They were both hard to relate too.

I would promote this book to teen by relating it to the true events about the Antartica explorers. Captain Lawrence Oates plays a major role in the novel and I think it would interest teens to know that he is a real person in history and maybe pair "The White Darkness" with a non-fiction work on his adventures.

3Q, 3P, M&J