The Clockwork Angel

My students absolutely loved The Mortal Instrument Series, now we will read the prequel to how it all began. Hurray for Cassandra Clare's The Clockwork Angel!

Darth Paper Strikes Back

Kids love this follow up novel to Origami Yoda! Take a look at Tom Angleberger's video on how to make your own Darth Paper.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Cabin Fever

I am watching Jeff Kinney as he discusses his Diary of a Wimpy Books - live on a webcast. I love him because he is so down to earth and real. I can't wait to get my copy of Cabin Fever which comes out today!

The Mortal Instruments Series

Quest High School Book Club finished up City of Bones and just started City of Ashes. Loving Cassandra Clare right now!

SHELTER

Shelter : A Mickey Bolitar Novel



GOING TO READ THIS WITH MY HIGH SCHOOL BOOK CLUB, I CAN'T WAIT!

The Book Thief

The book thief is an incredibly beautiful book. It is narrated by Death and chronicles Leisel as she steals books in Nazi Germany. You won't read this book just once, you'll finish it and want to read it over and over. This young adult book is 5 of 5 stars.

Inheritance

Love this series - Inheritance coming out in November!

Babble's Top 20 Book List of all Time

Young Adult List:

1 The Hunger Games Trilogy

2 Mockingbird

3 Stargirl

4 Okay for Now

5 Peter and the Starcatchers series

6 The Giver

7 The Graveyard Book

8 The House of the Scorpion

9 The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

10 What the Moon Saw

11 Bridge to Terabithia

12 Fever 1793

13 Sabriel

14 The Outsiders

15 The Westing Game

16 Walk Two Moons

17 Wintergirls

18 The Dark is Rising

19 Tell Me a Secret

20 The Book Thief

List taken from Babble:
http://www.babble.com/products/kids-products/best-kids-books-by-age-young-adult-back-to-school-guide/

One Book For Trenton

Saturday, July 23, 2011

OneBook for Trenton

Stacy Sweigart, a girl I knew from high school, died tragically in a car accident last Tuesday night. Her husband, Jason, also died in the accident. Their six-year old son, Trenton, was with his grandparents when it happened.

In high school, Stacy and I rode the same bus. Over the years, I had lost touch with her, but we have many mutual friends. Now, as a friend, a parent, and a teacher and writer, I can't help but think about Stacy's and Jason's families and what they must be going through, especially little Trenton. When you imagine a six year-old boy trying to understand a situation like this, it makes your heart hurt even more.

But there is a way we can all help.

Books provide a peaceful place. They make kids smile and laugh. They take kids to imaginary worlds, where a jungle grows in a bedroom and a tree gives itself away in the name of love. Books can help heal the deepest wounds. Books can provide bright light in dark places.

I'm asking you (writers, readers, parents, teachers) to join the OneBook for Trenton cause. You can help by sending one of your favorite books directly to Trenton. Books should be new or gently-used and can range from your favorite picture book to your most beloved chapter book. This is also a chance for parents to get their kids or entire family involved. Feel free to write a note inside or just send the book to the address below:

OneBook for Trenton
4307 Judy Ave.
New Castle, IN 47362

This will only cost you postage, but helping to heal a kid's broken heart is priceless.

Tracy Edward Wymer - www.tracyedwardwymer.com

Teeth - Vampire Tales

Teeth - Vampire Tales

This compilation of nineteen different tales covers different aspects of vampires. With authors like Cassandra Clare, Holly Black, Neil Gaiman, Melissa Marr and others, you are sure to find some new favorite authors. I especially enjoyed reading Garth Nix's Vampire Weather. This young adult novel won't let die hard paranormal fans down.

Destiny by Kelly Moore

if you want my advice

about becoming an artist....

run the other way

for example

most artist use only factory made stretched canvas

i say buy a piece of salvage lumber

most artist are waiting for a gallery to "discover them"

i say find a place artist dont want to show and make it your own

most artist are trying to get big bucks for their art

i say get a reasonable price for it

most artist hang out with other artist

i say stay from anyone who has time to shoot the bull over a cup of coffee

most artist are on every social networking website on the innernet

i say less is more

and last but not least

when it comes to advice

disregard everything ive typed

because as i sayd

run the other way

Kelly Moore

Return of the Green Man by Kelly Moore

I was in Santa Fe this weekend and happened upon a unique artist named Kelly Moore. Turns out that not only is his art fabulous, but his poetry is too! He gave me permission to highlight some of his art and poetry before his new book comes out in two months. As soon as I get my hands on it, I will fill you in on what it is like. For now, enjoy this poem he wrote.....

the banks are collapsing

our one eyed kings dont know what to do

folks say the planets end is near

but its not so

humans may not make it

but the planets always gonna be

were just seeing

the return of the green man

while the grey men get buried

in the wrong sort of green


Find Kelly at www.kellymoore.net

Hold Me Closer Necromancer

Hold Me Closer by Lish McBride
This fast paced thriller is a roller coaster ride. McBride produces a dark, witty read that will keep high school readers turning the pages. Take a look at my book trailer to get a glimpse of the darker side....

Alice in Wonderland

Alice in Wonderland for the iPad is a beautifully illustrated book. It has moving animations on the pages of the book that kids (and adults) will love. One of the best features is that it allows you to select the abridged edition for bedtime or the original 249 page classic edition. I love iPad book, the selection is wonderful and really keeps kids engaged while they are reading!

Super Diaper Baby 2: The Invasion of the Potty Snatchers

Super Diaper Baby 2: Behind the Blankies

From Captain Underpants to Super Diaper Baby, I love Dav Pilkey!! I got a preview copy of Super Baby 2: Invasion of Potty Snatchers at ALA. He is definitely a favorite of all boys and girls. Take a look at his site: http://www.pilkey.com/

The Book Whisperer

Donalyn Miller just shared some of her book choices for 2011. Add these to your summer reading list!

Best books of 2011 so far

View more documents from Donalynm

Sarah Dessen

Sarah Dessen was one of the nicest young ladies walking around ALA. My students absolutely love her books, as do I. Please take a look at her site where she discusses all her books. She deserves all the recognition she gets, she inspires young ladies to read, read, read.

http://sarahdessen.com/books/

ALA with Jeff Kinney

All the hype surrounding Jeff Kinney's visit was his new book coming out in the fall. Diary of a Wimpy Kid Cabin Fever is the much awaited sequel in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series. Jeff Kinney is such a pleasant young man and I was so excited to meet him. I for one can't wait for this next installment in the series.

Clarity

Clarity by Kim Harrington



This is Kim Harrington's first novel. Her debut work has suspense, murder, romance and great characters. Clarity is spunky and smart and her family ties are tight. I think girls will love her and want to see what Harrington comes out with next. 4 stars

Exposed

Exposed by Kimberly Marcus

Exposed is written in free verse and tells the heart wrenching story of two friends torn apart by an accusation of rape. It is beautifully written and told from the point of view of Liz, an aspiring photographer. Elizabeth Grayson's whole family is torn apart as they deal with the loss of Kate, someone they considered part of their family, and Mike - a son/brother they are struggling to believe. 5 stars

Cloaked

Cloaked by Alex Flinn

Flinn takes fairytales like The Elves and the Shoemaker, The Frog Prince, The Golden Bird, and The Six Swans - then weaves them into a magical tale. Cloaked has all the elements of excitement: adventure, danger, and love. Tweens and teens will find this book delightful. 5 stars

The Dreamer

The Dreamer by: Pam Munoz Ryan and Peter Sis

This fictional biography captures the sensitive life of Pablo Neruda, the Nobel Prize-winning poet. Born Neftali Reyes, Neftali struggles to have his father's approval and understanding, unfortunately, it doesn't happen. Neftali's overbearing father is continuously disappointed with his creative and poetic son. "You are nothing but a brittle twig", he tells little Neftali. My heart went out to the young Neftali, but his beautiful nature and poetic voice is detailed with Ryan's artistic writing. 4 stars.

Countdown

Countdown by Deborah Wiles

I listened to the audio version of this book and loved it. This historical novel takes place in 1962 in suburban Maryland. 11-year-old adolescent Franny is realizing how scary the relations are between the United States and Russia. Wiles brings the history of the times alive with the historical events taking place around Franny's young life. This novel was wonderfully written and lends itself to becoming a well-loved read aloud. 5 stars

Alchemy and Meggy Swann

Alchemy and Meggy Swann by:

I am not normally a fan of historical fiction, but Alchemy and Meggy Swann was a wonderful novel. I listened to the audio version and that really helped bring the novel to life. Cushman has created a wonderful heroine in Meggy Swann and her ability to transport you to a different era is incredible. The sights and sounds of old town London surround you and make you feel like you are right there with Meggy as she blossoms throughout the book.

Moon over Manifest

Moon over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool



I am not sure why it has taken me so long to read this. I suspect it was the cover that just didn't seem to appeal to me. This is truly the best book I have read in a long time. Please don't judge this book by its cover. This 2011 Newberry Award Winner has every aspect of a great read. Abigail Turner will steal your heart, Shady and Sadie are lovable characters and the adventure that Vanderpool takes you on is memorable.

A Tale Dark and Grimm

A Tale Dark & Grimm by Adam Gidwitz



Gidwitz does such an incredible job of creating an addendum to Grimm's Hansel and Gretel, you will find yourself finishing this book in a sitting. He carefully warns you in the beginning, "But don't worry. This story is like no story you've ever heard. You see, Hansel and Gretel don't just show up at the end of this story. They show up. And then they get their heads cut off. Just thought you'd like to know." He has this sort of dialogue with the reader throughout the book. A Tale Dark & Grimm not only has Hansel and Gretel losing their heads, a kidnapping, brothers being turned into swallows, a faithful servant turned into stone, a severed finger... Well I could go on, but I don't want to ruin it. Kids in upper elementary will LOVE this book. Another five star book!

Officer Buckle and Gloria by: Peggy Rathman

Officer Buckle is my hero. Look at this Voice Thread and see why.....

The Freak Observer

The Freak Observer by: Blythe Woolston



I really loved this book. The humor offsets the tragic circumstances of Loa's struggle to cope with not only one death, but two deaths. Loa uses her love of physics to try to explain details of her life. Only, physics can't explain everything. Woolston creates the perfect character to take you on journey of heartache and acceptance. This novel is definitely meant for a high school audience. This is a five star read.

Its A Book by Lane Smith

It's A Book



Lane Smith's It's a Book will be loved by all ages. In this age of technology, Jackass just can't fathom something that makes no noise, doesn't scroll up and down, and doesn't blog. I know some educators will hesitate to read this book aloud because of the word Jackass , but I think it is the perfect segue into how slang language has infiltrated the English language. This is also a great story to start a "Save the Book" campaign. I love my iPad and Kindle app, but nothing can ever replace a good book in your hands. I give this book 5 stars.

Paper Towns by: John Green

I read Paper Towns....again. This is probably my fourth time, I just love John Green's humor and characters. If you are a high school student and have never read Paper Towns, you are missing out. If you are a high school student and have never read any of John Green's books, you are really missing out. This story revolves around Quentin Jacobsen who has been infatuated with his neighbor all his life. Margo Roth Spiegelman is every boys dream girl. When she ends up disappearing, Quentin is determined to find her. You won't regret getting to know Quentin, Margo, Ben and Radar. Every time I read this book, it never fails to be a five star read.

Catching Fire and Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

I created a trailer for Hunger Games, but saw that Scholastic has trailers for the rest of the trilogy. I absolutely love the Hunger Games trilogy and its main character Katniss. Listen to Collins read an excerpt of the first book, Hunger Games, then watch the two trailers for Catching Fire and Mockingjay.

Dr. Lesesne and Dr. Chance TLA BOOKLIST

I went to see Dr. Lesesne and Dr. Chance discuss the Hot New Books for 2011. Those of you who actually sit in class with these ladies are so lucky. For those of you who couldn't make it, they book talked these books and it was awesome, I can't wait to get started.

T L A Booklist Lesesne and Chance 2011

View more documents from Teri Lesesne

The Vampire Diaries - Stephan's Diaries

I have a teenage daughter obsessed with The Vampire Diaries, so we decided to read the series over the Christmas break. LJ Smith's characters are intriguing, but the difference between book Elena and T.V. show Elena is like night and day. The main male characters are probably what keep the teens grabbing up the series. Stephan is the good boy and Damon is the bad boy. In his diaries, you see why Stephan struggles with himself and why Damon is out to make Stephan's life miserable. I think as long as writers keep romance in their vampire novels, teens will read them. I give this book 3 stars, but the series 4 stars.

Black Elk's Vision: A Lakota Story by S. D. Nelson

Click on this comic strip to read my comments.....

I am Number Four

I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

I made the mistake of seeing the movie first and then reading the book. It has been on the New York Times Bestseller list for a while, so I decided to give it a try. I definitely think this series will have a big teen following because of the movie, but the book itself is mediocre. Lore's writing grabs you initially, but you find yourself wondering if you should take the movie's version and put the book down. I will definitely read, I am Number Six, in hopes of a better read. Read the first chapter thanks to Harper Collins. 3 stars

The Uglified Ducky

The Uglified Ducky: A Maynard Moose Tale is a picturebook that will certainly delight young listeners. Willy Claflin will delight all with his wonderful take on The Ugly Duckling told by Maynard Moose.

Ship Breaker

Ship Breaker by: Paolo Bacigalupi. This novel introduces a dystopian future where Bacigalupi develops characters that create a connection to young adults today. Nailer is a 17 year old struggling to keep work, because if he can't manage, there are many others who can. This novel will make you think and pose questions about society in this fictional novel. I give this book a resounding 5 stars!

Between Shades of Gray

Between Shades of Gray by: Ruta Sepetys novel has left me speechless. It is truly a heart-wrenching story with so much depth. I loved Lina who told her story about having to re-locate by the order of Stalin. As a Lithuanian, Lina witnessed the injustice of her people as they were persecuted and enslaved by Russians. She witnessed atrocities while being imprisoned for at least twelve years and lived to see the death of her father, her mother, and many friends. This novel brings to light the Cruelty and injustice that Lithuanians endured at the hand of Russia. This historical fiction novel will enthrall tweens and young adults alike. I give this novel 5 stars.

GOAL! by: Mina Javaherbin

Goal! by Mina Javaherbin and illustrated by A.G.Ford is a book that celebrates the spirit of a country. Javaherbin tells the story of a young South African boy who wins a football or what we know as a soccer ball. Ajani celebrates by inviting his friends to play with him in the streets. The problem is, bullies roam the streets looking for trouble. Ajani and his friends must be careful and keep watch because the bullies are on their way. The paintings by Ford bring the story to life and heighten the confrontation the boys endure. This is a beautiful book to share with elementary age children. This book deserves 5 stars.

Forgive My Fins

Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs has quite a bit of suspense in it. 17-year-old Lily is a mermaid princess who must find a mate before her 18th birthday; otherwise, she won’t inherit the throne of Thalassinia. Tweens and Teen girls will find themselves enthralled in this fishy romance. I give this book 5 stars!

An Unspeakable Crime: The Prosecution and Persecution of Leo Frank

An Unspeakable Crime: The Prosecution and Persecution of Leo Frank was well written and a great read. I am a fan of true crime books and looked forward to reading this one, but I had happened upon this story many years ago and had already formed some opinions about the whole Mary Phagan murder. It is one thing to read about murders of women, but reading about the murder of a young thirteen year-old girl is heartbreaking. After reading Elaine Marie Alphin’s version, I immediately saw how difficult it is to keep unbiased until you have heard both sides. This book is extremely detailed and uses photos strategically throughout. Once I finished this book, I found myself searching the Internet for pictures and details about the actual murder and lynching of Frank. The graphics in this book are actual footage and can be quite disturbing. I encourage both high school students and teachers to read this book and talk about it. What a wonderful tool to use in class and to teach the evaluation of web sites. This book also lends itself to question how prejudice and anti-Semitism keeps the Leo Frank trial questionable after 98 years.

Star Wars Visual Dictionary

The Star Wars Visual Dictionary by Simon Beecroft and Jeremy Beckett is a fun book for any Star Wars Lego fan. There are so many Star Wars Visual Dictionaries out there, but this one targets the die-hard Lego fans. Boys and Girls of any age will appreciate the detail and graphics that you'll find in this book. Yoda, Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, and Boba Fett will delight children as they read through this visual dictionary. Loved this book and give it 5 stars.

The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by: Tom Angleberger

This cute story addresses whether Origami Yoda is real or not. He happens to be a puppet that Dwight carries on his finger. Dwight seems to have words of wisdom when he has Origami Yoda on his finger, making Tommy and his friends wonder if Origami Yoda has special powers. This coming of age novel will entertain young readers and keep you guessing as you read it. This book definitely holds up to 4 stars.

Watch this video on how to make your own Origami Yoda -

Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters

Barack Obama's, Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters, is a beautifully illustrated book that explores the qualities of thirteen American icons. Loren Long's illustrations are rather phenomenal and really enhance the text. Sneak a peak at my book trailer and see what you think. This book deserves 4 stars.

Silverlicious

Silverlicious by Victoria Kann is the fourth book in the Pinkalicious series. Any girl who loves pink will appreciate Kann’s spunky character. Pinkalicious has a loose tooth and loses it after stealing her brother’s cookie. She then realizes that she not only lost a tooth, but she lost her sweet tooth. You’ll enjoy Pinkalicious’ letter to the Tooth Fairy as she tries anything to get her sweet tooth back. I give this book 4 stars.

The Interrupting Chicken

David Ezra Stein's Interrupting Chicken is a wonderful picture book. I think I enjoyed this book even more than some of the other picture books I have blogged about because I enjoyed it on READEO. If you aren't familiar with www.readeo.com, you need to check it out. Readeo lets you skype with a friend and read books together. My son and I read Interrupting Chicken numerous times because it is the March free book of the month. This book is perfect for reading aloud and so much fun for kids to share read. I give this book 5 stars.

Me Frida

Me Frida
By: Amy Novesky

Frida Kahlo has always fascinated me. This wonderfully illustrated picture book will make you love her even more. Novesky brings Frida to life with her adventures in San Francisco. I feel compelled to mention the illustrator, David Diaz, who brings Frida and Diego alive before your eyes. I encourage you to use this book as a read aloud with your students; they will appreciate the artistic ability of the author and illustrator.

Olivia Goes to Venice

Olivia Goes to Venice
By: Ian Falconer

What is not to love about Olivia? She is one of my favorite book characters, look at this voice thread and see why.....

They Called Themselves the K.K.K.: The Birth of an American Terrorist Group

They Called Themselves the K.K.K.: The Birth of an American Terrorist Group
By: Susan Campbell Bartoletti

For those of you who loved award winning, Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow, you will love, They Called Themselves the K.K.K.: The Birth of an American Terrorist Group, as well. This non-fiction book captures you from the beginning. The pictures, the diaries, and the history are profoundly moving. I give this book 5 stars! Watch my book trailer...

Grandma's Gift

Grandma's Gift
by: Eric Velasquez

This is such a lovely story. Mr. Velasquez tells a childhood adventure he had with his beloved grandmother. His vivid memories and special advocate detail a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Velasquez's Puerto Rican culture is evident in this book and such a treasure for children. I give this book 5 stars.

Mirror Mirror - A Book of Reversible Verse

I love this book! Cinderella's Double Life, The Sleeping Beauty and the Wide-Awake Prince, Rapunzel's Locks and so much more. The verse is entertaining and clever. I give this book four stars. Check out my book trailer...

Out of My Mind

Out of My Mind
By: Sharon Draper

Melody has cerebral palsy. She has spent her life looking at other children speak and move around. She doesn't have the luxury of speech or movement, but Melody is intelligent. Melody shows strength and character as she people get to know her. This is a great book that can be used in many different capacities in the classroom. I give this book 5 stars. Watch my book trailer....

The Hate List

I give this book 5 stars. I LOVE THIS BOOK. Jennifer Brown was able to give depth to her characters. Nick Levil loves Shakespeare, loves Val, but hates the injustice of high school bullying. Valerie is in love with Nick. He is thoughtful and understanding of the torment she endures. Together they write a Hate List. The list documents the people who they don't like for one reason or another. Valerie has no idea that Nick will use the list as targets for a school shooting. The tragedy leaves many dead, including Nick. Valerie survives the ordeal physically, but emotionally she must pick up the pieces. This is a great novel for high school students.

The Witch's Guide to Cooking with Children

The Witch's Guide to Cooking with Children
By: Keith McGowan
Illustrations by: Yoko Tanaka

Imagine a family distantly related to Hansel and Gretel. A stepmother and father who were going to lose out on an inheritance if they had children. In fact, the inheritance would go to the children if children existed. Solomon and Constance had no idea that their parents didn't want them anymore. Mr. and Mrs. Blink wanted their children to meet up with the dreadful Witch Fay Holaderry. Witch Holaderry gladly took unwanted children and cooked recipes with them. Students will love this novel and enjoy it's characters. I give this novel 4 stars.

Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave

Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave
Written by: Laban Carrick Hill
Illustrated By: Bryan Collier


This is another beautiful read about a skilled potter who happened to be a slave. Set in South Carolina this thought provoking story relates the story of Dave. The watercolor pictures leave you awestruck and the story leaves you thinking. Wonderful stories like Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, and Slave, make you question and discuss history. Dave was never a free man, but he expressed himself through pottery and poems, a gift he was able to share.

Dark Emperor and Other Poems of the Night

Dark Emperor and Other Poems of the Night
By: Joyce Sidman
Illustrated by: Rick Allen

I don't know what is more beautiful about this book, the poems or the illustrations. Children will flip through the pages and feel the movement of the words as they read them. The imagery used makes you feel like you are there. Every poem is beautiful and informative. In Welcome to the Night, a tribute to all who crawl and creep, you can practically smell yourself in the forest. In Cricket Speaks, you feel the anticipation as the cricket rests throughout the day, waiting for nightfall where the sounds begin to dance. This would be a wonderful read aloud to school age children. I give this book 5 stars.

A Sick Day for Amos McGee

A Sick Day for Amos McGee
Written by: Philip C. Stead
Illustrated by: Erin E. Stead

I loved everything about this book. This CALDECOTT winner has wonderful descriptive pictures to match the wonderful sweet characters. Zookeeper Amos faithfully spends time with his animal friends. The care that he gives him daily bonds them. When Amos stays home sick one day, the group decides they will visit him. The delight Amos feels as his friends take care of him exemplifies the friendship they share.

I give this book 5 stars.

Will Grayson Will Grayson

Will Grayson Will Grayson is witty, brash, and unique. The story revolves around two different teens named Will Grayson. Both characters have a connection of sorts with Tiny Cooper. The Grayson characters are opposites in every way except for their name. They lead two totally different lives until one day their paths intersect. Their complex lives keep you rooting for them. You can't help but love both Will Graysons, but it is Tiny Cooper who steals your heart. Tiny is an obsessive flamboyant gay, who has been inseparable with the first Will Grayson since grade school. The fact that two wonderful authors like John Green and David Levithan wrote this book should make you run out to get a copy and read it now.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

Incarceron

I loved Incarceron and couldn't wait to get my hands on Sapphique. Finn's existence in a prison that he can't escape leaves him wanting answers. He can't remember how he got in Incarceron, but he knows that he will surely die in it. Incarceron has never had anyone escape it, although legends tell of one man named Sapphique who did. Finn finds hope when he finds that he can communicate with a girl named Claudia. Claudia doesn't live in Incarceron, she lives in a different world, a world he is determined to find. Young adults will enjoy this book, no doubt about it.

Please note: I used a portion of a Penguin Books book trailer. I looked under permissions and verified that it would be okay to use their video. It states, "Our video player features hundreds of videos that can be accessed this way. You can also share any of the videos with others on Facebook, Digg and Delicious or send an email." http://us.penguingroup.com/static/pages/multimedia/index.html#vmix_media_id=58342011.

Num8ers is exciting and fast paced. Jem was orphaned when she was eleven. Born with the ability to see numbers in people's eyes, she realizes that those numbers predict the date of their death. Jem isolates herself so that she doesn't have to see everyone's date of doom. But then, she meets Spider. He is odd and a misfit, just like her. This book will keep you turning the pages and wondering if fate can be altered.

Num8ers is on the 2011 Tayshas Reading List and has won the following awards:

* Angus Book Award
* Oxfordshire Book Award
* Stockport Schools Book Award, Key Stage 4
* Hounslow Book Award
* Wandsworth Fabulous Book Award 2010

The Hunger Games

Katniss Everdeen lives in a world that doesn't know freedom. Her district must choose two children to participate in the Hunger Games. When her frail sister is chosen, Katniss volunteers to take her place. She leaves her widowed mother and sister to go fight for her life, because in the Hunger Games, only one person will survive. Her beloved friend Gale commits to protect her family while she leaves to fight. The baker's son, Peeta, must also go to the Hunger Games. Katniss struggles to keep her distance with Peeta, because in her heart she knows, only one from her district will return. This fast paced story keeps you engaged from page one. Middle school students and up will devour this book so fast, they'll be scrambling for Catching Fire immediately. I loved this book and its memorable characters.

The Hunger Games have won the following honors:

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
USA TODAY BESTSELLER
WALL STREET JOURNAL BESTSELLER
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY BESTSELLER
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY'S BEST BOOKS OF 2008:
CHILDREN'S FICTION
NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE CHILDREN'S BOOK OF 2008
AN AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
TOP TEN BEST BOOKS FOR YOUNG ADULTS SELECTION
AN ALA NOTABLE CHILDREN'S BOOK2009 ALA AMELIA BLOOMER PROJECT LIST
#1 ON WINTER '08/​'09 CHILDREN'S INDIE NEXT LIST
INDIES CHOICE--BEST INDIE YOUNG ADULT BUZZ BOOK HONOR
2008 CYBIL AWARD--FANTASY & SCIENCE FICTION
2009 CHILDREN'S CHOICE BOOK AWARD
TEEN CHOICE BOOK OF THE YEAR FINALIST
NYPL “STUFF FOR THE TEEN AGE” LIST, 2009
CCBC CHOICES 2009
A NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW EDITORS' CHOICE
A KIRKUS BEST BOOK OF 2008
A HORN BOOK FANFARE
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL BEST BOOKS Of 2008
A BOOKLIST EDITORS' CHOICE, 2008
LA TIMES FAVORITE CHILDREN'S BOOKS, 2008
BARNES & NOBLE BEST BOOKS OF 2008
FOR TEENS AND KIDS
BORDERS BEST BOOKS OF 2008: TEENS
AMAZON BEST BOOKS OF 2008:
TOP 100 EDITORS' PICK
TOP 10 BOOKS: TEENS

The Grimm Legacy

Fairytales were something that Elizabeth and her mom enjoyed reading to each other.  When Elizabeth's mother dies and her father remarries, she finds herself feeling a bit out of place with her stepmother and stepsisters.  Elizabeth has only been at her new school four months when her favorite teacher, Mr. Mauskopf, gives her an assignment. After noticing she chose to write her paper on Grimm's fairy tales, he asks if she would be interested in a job.   Nothing could have prepared her for the magic she stepped into when she took the job at the New York Circulating Material Repository.  When Elizabeth learns the ropes and is finally given access to the Grimm Collection in Stack one, she encounters all the objects of her favorite fairy tales, from Snow White's mirror to the twelve pairs of fancy slippers from the dancing princesses.  This adventurous story has humor, romance, villains, magical creatures and even a flying carpet.  I would recommend this book to middle school students who enjoy fast paced action.

The Grimm Legacy is on the 2011 Lone Star Reading List.