Pride and Prejudice

Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Oxford University Press, 2004. ISBN-13: 978-0192802385.

Plot
Elizabeth Bennet is the second oldest of five daughters. Despite being low in fortune and connections, Elizabeth enjoys her life with the help of loving friends, sisters and the extra wit she possesses. However, excitement comes when a new bachelor along with his rich but proud friend William Darcy move to town.

Critical Evaluation
The writing is witty, fact paced and well crafted. Jane Austen is also able to create great characters that have flaws, yet are easily liked and have a lot of depth. Teenagers will enjoy the fun plot and the smart social observations Austen writes. The language of the book can be a challenge for teenagers to get used to at first.

Reader's Annotation
Elizabeth Bennet lives a quiet life with her four sisters at Longbourn. However, a new bachelor Mr. Bingley and his friend Mr. Darcy move into town. At first Elizabeth is snubbed by Mr. Darcy, but some events will soon force her to change her perspectives.

About the Author
Jane Austen was born on December 16, 1775 in Steventon, Hampshire. She is the seventh of eight children. She was educated at home and started writing at an early age.

She wrote her first novel when she was fourteen. She wrote over sixteen literary works during her lifetime. She is often praised for her witty observations on society as well as being one of the most important writers of the nineteenth century.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
19th Century society
Family
Romance

Book Talking Ideas
Jane Austen is often praised for her observations of society, did you see any examples of this in this novel?
Do you think first impressions are important?
Why is the art of conversation so important?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
None

Why Included in Selection
This book is a classic and a personal favorite.

Cracker! The Best Dog in Vietnam

Kadohata, Cynthia. Cracker! The Best Dog in Vietnam. Atheneum, 2008. ISBN-13: 978-1416906384.

Plot
Venus, a German shepherd was given up by Willie and his family to the army. Now renamed "Cracker", she is assigned to Rick, a new soldier. Together they are to be a dog unit sniffing out traps, enemies and booby traps in the Vietnam War. At first Cracker is reluctant to accept her fate as an army dog, however she eventually grows close to her handler and works to make sure he survives.

Critical Evaluation
Cynthia Kadohata is a talented writer. She has a way of writing flowing narrative and creating very real characters that can relate easily to readers. Readers will enjoy the fast pace and lyrical writing of Kadohata. The book also is interesting, since it explores an overlooked aspect of the Vietnam War.

Reader's Annotation
Cracker is a German shepherd with little to worry about. This is until her family gives her up the U.S. Army. She is then assigned as an army dog with a handler named Rick and together they try to survive the Vietnam War.

About the Author
Cynthia Kadohata is a Japanese American author born in Chicago, Illinois. She studied journalism at the University of Southern California. She started writing after staying with her sister in Boston.

She has written seven books for both young adults and adults. She currently lives in California with her son and dog.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Historical Fiction
Vietnam War

Book Talking Ideas
Did it surprise you to learn of the canine unit during the Vietnam war?
What did you think of the treatment of dogs in the book?
Why do you think Cracker was able to change her perspective of her situation?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
Violence and deals with war

Challenge Answer
The violence is not the focus of the book and it is not described in great detail. The war is depicted as confusing, and again the violence is not explicitly described.

Why Included in Selected
I was interested how the book covered a little known aspect of the Vietnam War.

Twilight

Meyer, Stephanie. Twilight. Little Brown Books for Young Readers, 2008. ISBN-13: 978-0316038379.

Plot
Bella Swan has just moved to Forks, Washington to live with her father. Bored in a small town and with her quiet father, Bella tries to just get on with life. Things change when she meets Edward, her classmate, who at first runs away from her. However she finds out that Edward along with the Cullen's are actually vampires and she cannot seem to stay away from him.

Critical Evaluation
The book is admittedly addicting. The story offers an innovative look at vampires and relationships. The book is fast and the narrative and clear. Although the writing is sometimes choppy and lacks fluidity in some areas, the story alone will keep teens reading.

Reader's Annotation
Bella Swan has just moved to Forks, Washington. There she meets Edward at school who has some odd quirks. It is only later that she realizes he is a vampire and that she needs to be with him.

About the Author
Stephanie Meyer was born in Hartford Connecticut and grew up in Arizona. She attended Brigham Young University and graduated with a degree in English.

Twilight was her first book which quickly become a hit with teenagers. She went on to finish the series with three additional books. She has also written The Host which is for adults.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
School
Vampires

Book Talking Ideas
What gave you an inkling that Edward was a vampire?
What do you think of the relationship between Edward and Bella?
Did the book change the way you look at vampires?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
None

Why Included in Selection
Twilight has become very popular with teenagers.

Things Fall Apart

Achebe, Chinua. Things Fall Apart. Anchor Books, 1994. ISBN-13: 978-0-385-47454-2.

Plot
Okonkwo takes care of his family and home traditionally in the Ibo village in Nigeria. However, his way of life is changing with the influx of Christian missionaries. The new religion and way of government are challenging the establishment while Okonkwo desperately tries to reserve his way of life.

Critical Evaluation
Achebe has a talent of telling the story with raw and simple narrative. Although teens will be exposed to complex themes such as traditions being challenged and identity issues, the language of the book will not add any frustration in trying to understand the book. Despite the clear narrative, readers are still able to relate to the inner struggle with Okonkwo, how he tries to stay true to his traditions, but realizes that the world is changing.

Reader's Annotation
Okonkwo is a traditional man in Ibo, Nigeria. However he must deal with changes in his life and society from the arrival of Christian missionaries.

About the Author
Chinua Achebe was born in Ogidi Nigeria. He attended the Government College in Umuahia and then went on to University College of Ibandan. He studied English, history and theology. He taught at Universities and also served as the External Services in charge of the Voice of Nigeria.

Achebe has written two books including, Things Fall Apart. He has also published collections of short stories, poetry and other works for children.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Religious/cultural Identity
Changes in traditions
African fiction

Book Talking Ideas
Despite the taboo, why do you think Okonkwo choose to do what he did?
Did you feel that Okonkwo was justified in trying to preserve his traditions?
Did you feel that changes in traditions are inevitable?

Reading Level/Interest Age
15+

Challenge Issues
The book deals with issues about religion and its role in life and being spread to other countries, spirituality, sexual relations and political conflict.


Challenge Answer
Teens can handle these difficult issues and will have to realize that people do deal with these conflicts.


Why Included in Selection
This book was fascinating and brought up great questions of religion, political issues and traditions.

Nothing but the Truth (and a few White Lies)

Headley, Justina Chen. Nothing but the Truth (and a few White Lies). Little Brown Books for Young Readers, 2007. ISBN-13: 978-0316011310

Plot
Patty Ho is a hapa: half Taiwanese and half white. Her parents are divorced and her mother is always more than willing to explain why white men are no good. Her mother is also very, very strict and has signed up Patty for a Standford math camp for the summer. Now away from her mother's clutches Patty has a chance to be herself and figure out what she wants in life.

Critical Evaluation
Headley has a talent of creating characters with flaws and still have them liked by the reader. Patty comes into the story being very unsure of herself. Later she is able to grow more comfortable in her skin and stand up for herself and what she wants. This book had a bright and upbeat tone. The story is not exceptional, b,ut it is still an enjoyable book that teens, especially those with mixed backgrounds will appreciate.

Reader's Annotation
Patty Ho just found out that her mom signed her up for a Standford math camp for the summer. Begrudgingly Patty goes, but finds herself an opportunity to find out about herself and what she wants.

About the Author
Justina Chen Headley was born in Buffalo New York and later moved to California. She wrote her first fifty page novella when she was just eight years old. She attended Standford and worked for Microsoft for several years. After a while she realized she missed writing and took a novel-writing course.

She has written four books for children and teens. Her book North of Beautiful has received rave reviews. She is married and has two kids.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Chinese Americans
Generational Gap
Coming of Age

Book Talking Ideas
When did you sense Patty started getting more confident?
How do you think about the relationship between Patty and her mom?
Do you agree with the thinking of Patty's mom?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
Sexual reference, swears

Challenge Answer
The language is very sparse and mild. The sexual reference is just in one scene of the book and it is implied.

Why Included in Selection
It was interesting to read a book with a mixed heritage individual as the protagonist.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Alexie, Sherman. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. Little Brown Books for Young Readers, 2009. ISBN-13: 978-0316013697.

Plot
Arnold Spirit, otherwise known as Junior loves to draw cartoons. He also lives with his family on the Indian Reservation in Spokane Washington. At the rez, everyone takes care of each other, but that does not mean that they do not struggle. His parents mourn the lack an education and many friends and family fall victim to alcoholism. Hoping for a better chance he enrolls in a school outside of the rez. There he deals with his identity, difference in culture and finding himself and his roots in the process.

Critical Evaluation
This book is down right hilarious. The narrative is witty, fast and flows very well. Teens will love the silly illustrations that go along with the story. Even though Junior does talk about serious racial issues, personal losses and social problems the book is written with hope and the ability to literally laugh things off. There are also great messages about being able to go for your dreams without forgetting about your roots.

Reader's Annotation
Junior is born and raised in the rez. He deals with problems such as economic inequality, racism and alcoholism in his family and community. However he decides to make things better for himself by enrolling in a school outside of the rez. Suddenly Junior is learning a lot about himself, others and cultures in addition to his classes.

About the Author
Sherman Alexie Jr is a Spokane/Coeur d'Alene Indian who grew up on the Spokane Indian Reservation. He attended Gonzaga University and then transferred to Washington State University. At first he was studying to be a doctor , but decided to pursue writing instead.

Alexie has written several essays, books and poetry. He is the recipient of the Before Columbus Foundations' American Book Award as well as the Murray Morgan prize.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Native American
Social Issues
Economic Inequality

Book Talking Ideas
Why do you think Junior has the tendency to laugh so much and at everything?
What did you learn about life on the rez?
Why did the basketball game seem so important to Junior?

Reading Level/Interest Age
15+

Challenge Issues
Swearing, sexual references, racism

Challenge Answer
The questionable material is not included in the story for shock factor, it was to tell the story of a kid growing up and dealing with regular teenage issues.

Why Included in Collection
This is a funny and touching book that would open teen's eyes to other cultures and ideas in America.

Chinese Cinderella

Mah, Adeline Yen. Chinese Cinderella. Laurel Leaf, 2001. ISBN-13: 978-0440228653.

Plot
Adeline is the youngest of five children in a wealthy family in China during the 1940's. Her father has married again after Adeline's mother has just passed away. Since she is the youngest and a girl, Adeline is not considered worth much by society and her family. Her parents constantly neglect or forget about her while she endures being the victim of her older sibling's tricks. The readers follow Adeline as she strives to look for sources of comfort in this hostile environment.

Critical Evaluation
The narrative of this story is simple. Teens will appreciate the clarity of the writing and will be able to focus more on the story of the book. The story is depressing, however Adeline does show resolve in finding her own worth and rise above the trials she experiences.

Reader's Annotation
After Adeline's mother gave birth to her she passed away. Since then Adeline has been considered as bad luck and has been treated as such by her whole family. However, despite the bad treatment Adeline is determined to make something of herself and works hard to find a way out.

About the Author
Adeline Yen Mah was born in Tianjin China. At the age of fourteen she won a writing contest which helped convince her father to let her go to England to study. She later graduated from medical school as a physician and started her own successful practice in California.

She wrote her first book based after her experiences after her stepmother's death. This book, Falling Leaves became a hit and Mah quickly gave up medicine to pursue writing full time. She is married and has two children.

Genre
Nonfiction

Curriculum
Autobiography
Chinese culture
Coming of Age

Book Talking Ideas
Do you think a lot of our actions and perspectives are shaped by superstitions?
What helped Adeline find comfort and a sense of worth?
Why would you think Adeline's stepmother would segregate the family?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
Accounts of neglect and abuse are included in the text.

Challenge Answer
Mah writes what really happened in her life. Also, readers are able to see the negative impact of abuse and neglect of children.

Why Included in Selection
It is a well written autobiography that gives insight to another culture.

Funny in Farsi: A Memoir of Growing Up Iranian in America

Dumas, Firoozeh Jazayeri. Funny in Farsi: A Memoir of Growing up Iranian in America. Random House Trade Paperbacks, 2004. ISBN-13: 978-0812968378.

Plot
Firoozeh was born in Iran and moved to Southern California with her family at the age of seven. Her extended family soon followed them to America and everyone has been here ever since. The reader follows Firzooeh as she grows up getting used to the cultural differences between her birthplace and her new home. Her quirky family also adjust in their own way, her father especially is filled to the brim with optimism and loves America no matter how much anti-Iranian and anti-Muslim sediment is thrown in his way.

Critical Evaluation
Dumas is an excellent writer with a clear and simple narrative. She knows how to have just the right amount of words to tell a story without getting bogged down with details. Her father is the comic relief of the story and his pure love of the American dream despite the troubles and sometimes racial tensions he faces is inspiring. This is a funny, heartwarming book that deals with racial issues. Dumas is a talented writer being able to get just the right balance of every emotion and theme in her autobiography.

Reader's Annotation
Firoozeh Dumas is a typical girl who was born in Iran and moved to America when she was seven. She and her family go on a funny as well as crazy cultural ride as they try to adjust living in America and deal with racial issues from both the U.S. and Iran.

About the Author
Firoozeh Dumas was born in Abadan Iran. Ever since she was young she wrote essays and later submitted them for scholarships in order to attend UC Berkeley. Her family continued to move between California and Iran until they finally settled in Newport Beach, California.

She has written two books including Funny in Farsi. She was also the first Middle Eastern woman to be nominated for the Thurber Prize for American Humor for her work. She is married with children and often tours the country to give book talks.

Genre
Nonfiction

Curriculum
Racism
Iranian American
The immigrant experience
Autobiography

Book Talking Ideas
Why do you think her father is able to have an unwavering love for America despite all the racism he experiences?
What do you think helped Firoozeh the most in adapting to America?
Does this book change the way you view Iranian Americans? Or Muslims?

Reading Level/Interest Age
Teens and Adults

Challenge Issues
The book deals with acts of racism

Challenge Answer
Unfortunately racism exists and Firoozeh does a good job in keeping an accurate and balanced perspective on racial issues.

Why Included in Selection
This was a great and funny book. Also, it deals with racial issues without being depressing.

Nobody's Princess

Friesner, Esther M. Nobody's Princess. Random House Books for Young Readers, 2008. ISBN-13: 978-0375875298.

Plot
Helen of Sparta is known for her beauty, but there's more than meets the eye with her. Actually she does not like being dressed up and fretted over at parties. Her ideal way to spend the day is learn how to fight and ride along with her brothers. Together with her brothers they embark on several adventures including some very interesting people and foes.

Critical Evaluation
The premise of the book will be interesting to teens, especially teenage girls since Helen is very headstrong. However, there are some parts of the narrative where the story seemed to drag just a little. Overall, it is a fun read and readers will enjoy how Helen finds a way to outwit, outplay and outdo challenges so that she can learn how to fight and not miss any of the action.

Reader's Annotation
Helen of Troy is famous for her beauty. However this girl does not care for beauty at all. She rather fight and be on the hunting parties like her brothers which she always manages to sneak out and do.

About the Author
Esther Friesner received her degrees in Drama and Spanish from Vassar College. Afterward she studied at Yale University and got a M.A. and Ph.D in Spanish. She taught Spanish at Yale for several years before she started writing full time.

She has written twenty-seven books so far and has received several literary awards for her work. She currently lives in Connecticut with her husband and their two children.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Historical
Fantasy
Greek Mythology

Book Talking Ideas
Did the skills of Helen's mother surprise you?
Do you think it was acceptable for women to learn how to fight and hunt?
Why is knowing how to win conversations just as important as winning a fight?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issue
None

Why Included in Selection
It is a good book with mythology incorporated in the story.

Top Ten Uses for An Unworn Prom Dress

Ferraro, Tina. Top Ten Uses for an Unworn Prom Dress. Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 2007. ISBN-13: 978-0385733687.

Plot
Nicolette Antonovich has it all, she as a dress for the junior prom as well as a date with the hottest guy in high school, Rod. Everything seems perfect until Rod's girlfriend comes back into town. This means that Nicolette is now officially dumped and just two days before prom. The worst part about this whole thing is, she still likes Rod! Now she must learn how to deal and figure out what to do with an unworn prom dress.

Critical Evaluation
This book is a light easy read that teens will enjoy if they are looking for a book just to enjoy. Teens can relate to Nicolette since she is just a down to earth typical teenager that is trying desperately to get her life on track even though high school life is crazy. The book is not exceptionally impressive or funny, but it does have some light humor and teens will appreciate how Nicolette isn't perfect, she does the best with what she has.

Reader's Annotation
Nicolette has just been dumped two days before junior prom. She does not know what is worse, being dumped or trying to figure out what to do with an unworn prom dress. Now it is up to her and her best friend to try to figure out this mess.

About the Author
Tina Ferraro has been writing since the age of six. While she was growing up in New York, she noted that she was an avid bookworm and was constantly daydreaming in school. She wrote her first short story after graduating from college. She went on to sell fifty stories while she worked at the university.

She has written three books including Top Ten Uses for An Unworn Prom Dress. Currently she lives in Southern California with her husband and three kids.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Prom
Friendship
School

Book Talking Ideas
Why do you think it was hard for Nicolette to give up her feelings for Rod?
What do you think helped Nicolette finally be happy with herself?
What could you do with an unworn prom dress?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issue
None

Why Included in Selection
This is a book about prom and high school issues. Teenage girls will appreciate relating to tough situations in school.

The Hunger Games

Collins, Suzanne. The Hunger Games. Scholastic Press, 2008. ISBN-13: 978-0439023481.

Plot
The Capitol controls the Districts, and to show their power over the people they annually hold the Games. These Games require each District to submit one girl and one boy between the age of twelve and eighteen. All of the teens are then lead into a battle to the death and the last person standing gets their needs as well as the needs of their family taken care of for the rest of their lives. All this is usual for Katniss who takes care of her mother and sister, until the drawings of the names for the Games comes up and turns her life upside down.

Critical Evaluation
Readers will easily be hooked by this book. Not only is the story written well, but the plot is very fast moving and full of action. there is the worry that the gladiator type games may be too violent, yet despite the nature of the games the book is not overly depressing. Teens as well as adults will enjoy the many twists in the plot.

Reader's Annotation
The Games is an annual gladiator event where one boy and one girl from each District must go and fight to the death. The winner gets to live the rest of their life in luxury. Katniss couldn't care less for the games, but somehow finds herself caught in an epic fight to survive.

About the Author
Suzanne Collins has written for children's television shows in addition to books. She has even worked on an Emmy nominated show, Clarissa Explains it All. It was only until she talked with children's author James Proimos did she decide to try writing books.

She currently lives in Connecticut with her family. Her third book to The Hunger Games: The Mockingjay is to be released in August.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Science Fiction
Distopia

Book Talking Ideas
How does the relationship between Katniss and her mother differ from the relationship between Katniss and Prim?
Did you think Peeta had any plans to survive?
Why do you think the publicity of the Games is so important? How does it effect the Games?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issue
Violence

Challenge Answer
The violence is not dwelt on or is described in disturbing details. It is also written in such as way that the book is not overly dark or depressing.

Why Included in Selection
Every person who has read this book loved it. It is a great story with a lot of adventure.

Spies of Mississippi

Bowers, Rick. Spies of Mississippi: The True Story of the Spy Network that Tried to Destroy the Civil Rights Movement. National Geographic Children's Books, 2010

Plot
This book covers how the state government of one state signed into being a spy network whose sole purpose was to undermine the civil rights movement and maintain segregation. The government officials, spies and insiders that were involved in the movement are exposed along with some of their plans and propaganda that they tried to spread in the community. The book also contains copies of actual documents that support the existence of the network and their influence.

Critical Evaluation
Some nonfiction books have the problem of getting too involved in the data of the covered event and overcrowd the narrative with minute details. However, Bowers does a good job of making the narrative clear and flow well so that readers do not feel stressed by the amount of information. The information about the network is very interesting and gets the reader curious about US history.

Reader's Annotation
There were struggles during the civil rights movement, but few know about a spy network that was written into state law. This network worked with the sole purpose of making sure that segregation was maintained...forever.

About the Author
Rick Bowers resides in Washington D.C. In addition to writing books, he is also a journalist, songwriter and heads several projects for AARP. He is also the executive director of the Leadership Commission on Civil Rights.

Genre
Nonfiction

Curriculum
Civil Rights Movement
Segregation
Government accountability

Book Talking Ideas
Propaganda is looked down on so much in America, yet it has existed in this country as well. How does it change your perspective in what you read or hear about from the media?
Why do you think people were able to create such a network?
Do you think it was worth it for these civil right activists to give up so much to go to Mississippi and protest?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issue
Deals with murders, propaganda, racism, hate crimes, and abuse of the law.

Challenge Answer
This book talks about what really happened in the history of the U.S. No matter how ugly the past is, it is best to learn about it and make sure it does not happen again.

Why Included in Selection
It is a well written book about an interesting part of U.S. History.

Model: A memoir

Diamond, Cheryl. Model: A Memoir. Simon Pulse, 2008. ISBN-13: 978-1-41695-904-5.

Plot
Cheryl Diamond is a fourteen year old girl from a small town who has moved to New York to live by herself. She is chasing a demanding, competitive and unpredictable dream, to become a model. Follow her as she meets the crazy, the unpredictable as well as the great who have fallen victim to the profession. This is a only crazy ride that is actually true.

Critical Evaluation
The narrative is clear and simple. It is an easy read for young readers. The story can sometimes seem choppy at some parts. The way the events are written can sometimes appear rushed so the flow of the plot can sometimes feel uneven. Despite these problems, the story is interesting and it provides an interesting insight to the hectic world of modeling.

Reader's Annotation
Cheryl Diamond is a model at just fourteen. Although it seems like a glorious profession, it is also hectic and sometimes unpredictable. Will Cheryl survive this profession or will she fall victim to it like so many others?

About the Author
Cheryl Diamond first moved to New York when she was just fourteen. She was quickly signed up to an agency and has been modeling since. At sixteen she started writing her memoir in between shoots. She had her book published in 2008.

Currently Diamond is modeling in New York. She has modeled for L'Oreal, Clairol and Armani.

Genre
Non Fiction

Curriculum
Model

Book Talking Ideas
How do you think Cheryl is able to stay true to herself through all her experiences?
Why do you think there are so many big personalities in modeling?
Does this book change the ways you see advertisements?

Reading Level/ Interest Level
12+

Challenge Issues
None

Why Included in Selection
It was an intriguing non fiction work about a career that seems so interesting and crazy.

The Magician: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel

Scott, Michael. The Magician: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel. Delacorte Press, 2008. ISBN-13: 978-0-385-73358-8.

Plot
The twins Sophie and Josh has survived along with Nicholas and Scatty. This time they are visiting Nicholas' home city, Paris, but it is hardly a happy event. Nicholas along with his wife Perenell are aging since they are away from the Book of Abraham the Mage. This also means that they are getting weaker and weaker while Dr. Dee continues to gather darker and more dangerous allies. Sophie must also learn to control her new awaken powers before she goes mad.

Critical Evaluation
The sequel is just as well written and entertaining as the first book. Scott continues an exciting story with more references to folklore from all over the world. There are also bigger conflicts and monsters that keeps the readers in suspense. The book is a quick read and is a good book even for hesitant readers.

Reader's Annotation
Sophie and Josh are now in Paris with Nicholas and more in danger than ever. Nicholas is getting weaker while bigger and darker enemies come closer. Sophie has also been awaken and her magic power can drive her mad if she isn't able to control it first.

About the Author
Michael Scott is a native of Ireland. He not only is a writer, but an authority on Celtic folklore as well. In addition to books, he also writes for stage and screen.

He has written over forty books and is praised for his contributions to children's literature.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Magic Fiction
Twins Fiction
Historical Fiction

Book Talking Ideas
Do you think Sophie can control her powers?
What do you think of the prophecy?
Do you think Josh's desire will change the nature of their relationship?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
None

Why Included in Selection
The author's incorporation of world folklore and myths in the story makes the book really interesting and real.

The Alchemyst: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel

Scott, Michael. The Alchemyst: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel. Delacorte Press, 2007. ISBN-13: 978-0-385-73357-1.

Plot
Sophie and Josh Newman are twins, teenagers living the quiet life in San Francisco. This is until Josh's boss, Nicholas Flamel and his book shop is suddenly attacked by a Dr. John Dee. Suddenly the whole store is destroyed by magic and Dr. Dee is demanding for some sort of book. Nicholas then reveals himself as an alchemyst, a 700 year old man who found the secret of eternal life protecting the Book of Abraham the Mage. Sophie and Josh are then thrown into a world where legends and myths are true and that they are part of a prophecy that will determine the fate of the world.

Critical Evaluation
The book is well written and with a clear narrative which was easy to follow. The book also uses actual myths and legends and facts of people and of the world so the reader gets a sense of realism while reading. The plot is also constantly moving with twists and non stop action. This book is best suitable for those who like magical adventure tales.

Reader's Annotation
Sophie and Josh are twins that were leading normal lives. That is until Josh's boss Nicholas Flamel is attacked and finds out that he is actually a 700 year old alchemyst that is guarding the Book of Abraham the Mage that contains the secret to eternal life. Suddenly the twins embark on an adventure, facing opponents that only existed in legends.

About the Author
Michael Scott is a native or Ireland. In addition to writing he is also an authority of Celtic folklore which has gone on and influenced his writing. He stated writing over twenty-five years ago and writes for both youth and adults.

He additionally writes for stage and screen and is praised for his contributions to children's literature.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Magic Fiction
Twins Fiction
Historical Fiction

Book Talking Ideas
Why do you think Nicholas is not telling Sophie and Josh everything? Do you think it's for their own good or is he hiding something?
Do you think that Josh and Sophie have a unique relationship because they're twins?
What do you think of the idea that every legend has a bit of truth in it?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
None

Why Included in Selection
A very fun and interesting historical fiction.

Go Ask Alice

Anonymous. Go Ask Alice. Simon Pulse, 1971. ISBN-13: 978-1-41691-463-1.

Plot
Alice is a normal teenager when her life is turned upside down. At a party she accidentally takes some LSD and suddenly she finds herself struggling with a drug addiction. The book follows her journey as her life is changed from her drug addiction and her struggle to get it back on track.

Critical Evaluation
The book is written in diary form which makes it easier to read and the narrative flows pretty smoothly. What is interesting is being able to read the story from the perspective of Alice and what is going on in her head while her life goes through some drastic changes. Her emotions are also raw and readers are able to clearly see the emotional changes in her life.

Reader's Annotation
Alice was just a normal teenager until she accidentally goes to a party to find that she gets tricked into taking LSD. Alice's life is then thrown off track as she tries to deal living as a drug addict.

About the Author
There is controversy over who is the author of the book. At first this book was presented as a nonfiction work with the author listed as anonymous. Later, Beatrice Sparks, an American and Mormon youth counselor presented herself as the editor. She has also written other books about serious teen issues. This book is said to be based on teenagers dealing with drug issues.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Drug Abuse
Diaries

Book Talking Ideas
How did drugs impact Alice's life?
Why did it seem that Alice had less and less choices going on?
Who was in control of Alice's life?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
Language, sexual references, young people acting out

Challenge Answer
All of the challenge issues are used to show the negative impact of drugs in a young adult life. The negative behavior is not glorified or encouraged, it acts as a warning to readers.

Why Included in Selection
An interesting book about drug addiction told in a unique format.

Good Enough

Yoo, Paula. Good Enough. HarperTeen, 2008. ISBN-13: 978-0-06-079085-1

Plot
Patti knows what is expected of her, especially from her traditional Korean parents. She has to be the concertmaster of her All-State violin competition, get nearly perfect on her SAT's and get into an Ivy League school. Oh yah, anything less is NOT ACCEPTABLE! She might as well not even bother living. Everything is going as planned until cute Trumpet boy shows up. He's nice, talented, he likes the same rock bands as her AND he's easy on the eyes. This definitely spells trouble. Can Patti please her parents while trying to be a normal teenager?

Critical Evaluation
This is a very addicting book. The narrative is written with clarity and humor so the pages fly past, it is appropriate for hesitant readers. The characters are funny, well-written and Yoo does a good job in having the reader relate to her characters. There are several surprises in the plot and Yoo does give some yummy Korean recipes that is mentioned in the story.

Reader's Annotation
Patti Yoo is an overachiever to say the least. She is on track to being the perfect Korean daughter until cute Trumpet guy appears. This guy is trouble, and Patti wonders if pleasing her parents is what makes her happy.


About the Author
Paula Yoo was born in Virgina and grew up in Connecticut. In addition to writing books she also writes TV scripts. She does admit that she shares some characteristics with Patti. She does play the violin and was the concertmaster of her high school orchestra.

She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband. Good Enough is her first novel.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Korean American Fiction
Musician Fiction
Parent and Child Relationships
Self-realization

Book Talking Ideas
Do you think Patti made a good choice based on her happiness or her parents?
Why do you think Patti's parents are so hard on her?
Do you think Patti was true to herself throughout the book?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
There is a racial slur mentioned

Challenge Answer
Accurately depicts issues that some Asian Americans face.

Why Included in Selection
This book was funny and I related to its themes.

The Chocolate War

Cormier, Robert. The Chocolate War. Knopf, 1974. ISBN-13: 978-0-375-82987-1

Plot
The Vigil a bullying group, rule the school and Archie controls everyone being the "assigner" of the group. In fact, the principal asks for the support of the Vigils to make sure that the upcoming chocolate sale will go well. The Vigils agree, but with a trick up their sleeve. As a joke, Jerry is told by the Vigils to refuse to sell chocolates, but only for a short while then join in the fundraiser. However, Jerry continues to refuse chocolates defying not only the school, but the Vigils as well. Suddenly Jerry finds himself being bullied at every turn and questions if it was worth it, daring to upset the status quo.

Critical Evaluation
This is a very complex dark story with adult themes and questions. The story as well as the characters are well crafted and the reader does not have any clue how this showdown is going to end. While this is a very well written story, it is a challenge to read since there are many adult themes, ideas and complex issues. This book is for more advanced readers who are not afraid of seeing the dark side of life.

Reader's Annotation
The Vigils rule the school, everyone, even the principal knows that. As a pawn in one of their schemes Jerry is told to refuse to sell chocolates, but later give in to the school fundraiser. However, Jerry flat out refuses to sell the chocolates and suddenly finds himself victimized by the school and Vigils.

About the Author
Robert Cormier was born on January 17, 1925 and was the son of French-Canadian immigrants. Previously, he worked as a newspaper reporter for 30 years. He also wrote scripts for a radio station. He wrote his first novel which was published in 1960.

Since then, Cormier's work has been honored and he has received several awards including the Margaret A. Edwards Award. He is also widely considered as a notable contributor to YA fiction. He lived all his life in Massachusetts with his wife and children. He passed away November, 2000.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Bully Fiction
High School Fiction


Book Talking Ideas
Why do you think Jerry refused to sell the chocolate?
Do you think it is better to upset the status quo, even if it means some hard times?
What did you think of the ending of the novel?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
This book contains strong language, adult themes of a sexual nature, violence and depicts anarchic characters.

Challenge Answer
While this book does contain quite a few questionable material, it does portray the developing stages of adolescence boys which is not always pretty. Also, sometimes life is not always clean or bright. Cormier shows the reality that sometimes life is raw, dark and unfair.

Why Included in Selection
It is an acclaimed book with great themes.

Romeo's Ex: Rosaline's Story

Fiedler, Lisa. Romeo's ex: Rosaline's Story. Holt, 2006. ISBN-13: 978-0-8050-7500-7

Plot
Everyone knows the story of Romeo and Juliet. However, no one really knows what happened before Romeo went to that fateful party. Rosaline is Juliet's cousin, she was also the item of affection for Romeo before he met Juliet. Additionally, she was not into the idea of falling in love and had a few ideas of her own on what to do with her life. Enjoy reading about the classic love story of Romeo and Juliet through the eyes of Rosaline, a headstrong independent woman ahead of her time.

Critical Evaluation
This book is an interesting twist to the classic love story of Romeo and Juliet. Apparently, the author often felt that women got the short end of the stick in many of Shakespeare's plays and decided to explore the life of Rosaline, a character that is only mentioned in the beginning of the play. It is interesting to see the confidence of Rosaline and an outsider's perspective on the love story and how it evolved. Additionally, the text flows easily and is not a challenging read for hesitant readers.

Reader's Annotation
Rosaline was only mentioned briefly as the object of affection for Romeo in Shakespeare's classic story Romeo and Juliet. However, Rosaline is more than meets the eye and tells another version of the love between Romeo and Juliet.

About the Author
Fiedler was frustrated that the majority of Shakespearean women got ignored or not fully developed. As a result, she has written new versions of several of his plays that explore the lives of these overlooked women. She has also written several other books based on teenage celebrities.

Currently Fiedler lives in Connecticut with her husband, daughter and their golden retriever.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Historical Fiction
Love Fiction

Book Talking Ideas
Do you think Rosaline chose wisely on what to do with her life?
Do you think that the society at that time was accepting of Rosaline's ambitions?
How does the story of Romeo and Juliet appear to you now?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
Deals with issues of adult relationships

Challenge Answer
The issues are only implied and covered briefly.

Why Included in Selection
This book had an interesting premise.

Cross my heart and Hope to Spy

Carter, Ally. Cross my Heart and Hope to Spy. Hyperion Paperbacks, 2007. ISBN-13: 978-1-42310-006-5

Plot
It's another year at the most prestigious school for "gifted" young women, or rather world class spies in training. Cammie is disappointed that things did not work out with Josh, but she has no time to mope too long about with her new assignment. This year they are learning how to shadow people and Cammie is doing pretty well until some boys ruin her run. There is also rumors of a spy school for boys and that they may come to visit. Will Cammie ever get her peaceful semester?

Critical Evaluation
Another well written book by Ally Carter. The dialogue is as witty and fast as the first books and the new characters do bring some fresh personalities and conflicts for Cammie. Carter is also able to give the reader just a taste as to what's to come which keeps readers interested in how things turn out at the end of the book.

Reader's Annotation
It is Cammie's sophomore year at Gallagher Academy and she only wishes for a peaceful year, if that is possible for a school for spies. Suddenly, her world and her school is turned upside down with rumors that a spy school for boys may come and liven up their routine.

About the Author
Ally Carter has written four books in her Gallagher Girls series in addition to three other books for young adults and adults. She grew up in the Midwest and has earned degrees from both Oklahoma State University and Cornell.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Spies Fiction
School Fiction

Book Talking Ideas
Do you think that secrets are sometimes necessary for relationships or do they do more harm than good?
If you wanted to learn what's going on with someone you love, is it better to confront them or find out on your own?
Who do you think Cammie really likes? What is the difference of attraction versus a relationship?

Reading Level/Interest Age
12+

Challenge Issues
None

Why Included in Selection
A well written sequel to a fun and bright series.