Book Review: Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen

Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Publication date: April 2008
Length: 11 hrs, 14 min
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun

Ruby is used to her mom disappearing for a while. It's just been her and her mom ever since her older sister Cora left and never looked back. But when her mom disappears permanently, Ruby finds herself sent to live with Cora and her husband. She isn't sure what to do with this new life; she's ready to leave it all behind, until she begins to understand just what she wants and what she might be able to do for the people around her.

Things I Liked:
I liked the story.  I like how Ruby just acts a certain way and believes certain things because of her past and how things have been in her life.  She doesn't trust people and she doesn't plan to stick around.  But as the book progresses, she learns and meets people and discovers there are things she wants to change, only she isn't sure how.  But she does change.  I think Dessen does this well, describing the way a person can change both their circumstances and the way they act.  The story has heart and you feel it plucking at your strings and you want to hug the characters and make it all better.  It's real and it's good.  And now I know why people like Sarah Dessen.  I listened to this one on my interminable commute and the narrator, Rebecca Soler, did a spanking good job portraying the so-don't-care teen voice - she was spot-on for Ruby.

Things I Didn't Like:
It moved rather slowly at times, so much that I almost gave up.  I wondered where it was heading, after she kind of gets in a new rut in her new life.  It seemed like there wasn't anywhere else for her to go.  But then it picked up again and I enjoyed it.  I'm sure I'll pick up another Dessen, though I'm generally not a fan of this kind of book.

Read-alikes:
Um, pretty much all Sarah Dessen books, from what I understand

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@#$ 
plenty, though no f-bombs

mrg-factor: XX
a few incidents, nothing too descriptive

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ****

Is there a Sarah Dessen book I simply must read?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Incarnate by Jodi Meadows

Incarnate by Jodi Meadows
Publisher: Katherine Tegan Books
Publication date: January 2012
Pages: 384
Source: ARC provided by publisher
For: Review (and the Debut Author Challenge)
Series: Newsoul, Book 1

Ana is unusual, a newsoul, one who has not been reincarnated for thousands of years; she's living her first life.  Even worse, when she was born another old soul disappeared and everyone blames her for it.  Rejected by her mother, left by her father, she has had a cold childhood.  But now she's determined to find out about herself and why she might be here.  Traveling to the city of Heart, she encounters hostility nearly everywhere, except from Sam and a few of his friends.  In Sam, Ana finds someone who might be able to care about her, despite being a newsoul.  But will their kindling relationship have time to smoulder or will it be destroyed by the many forces in place driving them apart?

Things I Liked:
I think what makes this book stand out in my mind is the unique world and details.  I have read a few reincarnation books, though they were more focused on a couple being reincarnated, finding one another, and then being unable to spend even one complete lifetime together.  This is different and in a much better way.  I like Ana; she's a unique, new soul, one who is clearly at a disadvantage when compared with everyone else, but who doesn't dwell much on it.  As the book progresses, she learns new things, develops her own talents and ideas, and becomes even more unique.  I thought the relationship between her and Sam was well done as well, providing sparks and interest and even some doubt.  Admittedly, I got mad at Sam and Ana a few times, but that is inevitable in a realistic relationship.  Interesting concepts, unique book.

Things I Didn't Like:
I was a bit disappointed at the end.  I felt like none of the ideas and mysteries Ana was trying to solve were explained.  It just kind of ended with no resolution, or at least not enough to leave me satisified.  I'll be interested to read the next one, but I wish there had been a little more meat to this one.  There were quite a few incidents that happened in the last couple of chapters that were strange, different, and nearly left unexplained. 

Read-alikes:
Maybe a little like The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller
It also reminded me, for some odd reason, of Pegasus by Robin McKinley

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
some, not a lot

mrg-factor: X 
it felt sensual, but nothing actually happens

v-factor: ->-> 
there is some fighting action

Overall rating: **** 

What intrigues you about this book?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Midnight in Austenland by Shannon Hale

Midnight in Austenland by Shannon Hale
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA
Publication date: January 2012
Pages: 288
Source: e-book from NetGalley
For: Review
Series: Companion novel to Austenland

When Charlotte Kinder finds herself divorced and uncertain what do to next, she decides to take a vacation to Austenland - a place where she can become someone else and live in the world of Jane Austen. But when a mystery crops up during her time there, she is not sure all of it is pretend. Can she figure out the real from the fake before it is too late?

Things I Liked:
I am simply in love with Shannon Hale's writing.  She could make something beautiful or interesting or funny out of the most drab or boring topic (not that this book is drab or boring in plot).  I'd read a book on any topic written by her.  So, since I'm obviously a fan, I have to admit I truly enjoyed this book.  I loved the characters, particularly Charlotte as a woman trying to figure out her place in a world thrown upside down and backwards.  She was vulnerable, but strong and the parts where she starts to fight back were my favorites.  The mystery was fairly interesting and kept me wondering (though mystery fans probably had it figured out right away) and the whole Gothic feel and nod to Northanger Abbey made it so fun.  I laughed and shivered and then laughed again all the way through.  Delightful!

Things I Didn't Like:
I think it will be enjoyed more by people who may be experiencing some of the same issues that Charlotte and even Miss Charming did - a messy divorce or just feeling undesirable.  But it can be enjoyed by many other kinds of folks too, since I certainly did.  And the mystery wasn't exactly thrilling, but more just there to allow awesome character interactions.  Definitely not my favorite Shannon Hale book, but still pretty fun to read.

Read-alikes:
Can be enjoyed on its own, but don't skip the delight that is Austenland
I don't know, I don't read a lot of cozy mysteries or chick lit or even Austen-inspired stuff

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
a few here and there

mrg-factor: X 
implied, not on page

v-factor: -> 
a little bit, nothing gory

Overall rating: ****

What's your favorite Shannon Hale? Or your go-to-for-the-writing author?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH
Publication date: May 2011
Pages: 464
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun!
Series: Kane Chronicles, Book 2

*Spoilers for The Red Pyramid are inevitable*
Carter and Sadie Kane may have temporarily defeated Apophis, but he's bound to return if they don't find the legendary Book of Ra and use it to help defeat him.  With the help of some old friends and new ones as well, the Kanes are determined to keep chaos at bay until Apophis can be contained completely.

Things I Liked:
I always love Riordan's series.  He combines perfectly smart stories, real kid characters, and a level of humor that can entertain kids and adults alike.  I love how easily he's taken history and mythology and made it fun, interesting, and readable.  The books are so clever too - phrasing and humor and everything done so well.  Sadie and Carter are so real, particularly the way their narrations seem almost like a sibling fight.  Reminds me of myself and my older brother sometimes.  I've really been enjoying the audio versions, because the two narrators are so good - they sound just right for the ages and they make great sarcastic inflections too.  And Bes!  Oh, how I loved Bes.  There are many wonderful things that make these series a blast to read or listen to. 

Things I Didn't Like:
I always think the stories last just a little too long.  I think if they were a bit shorter and maybe cut out one or two side stories/adventures, they would be better.  I also thought it was a bit odd that during the exciting ending Carter seemed to do practically nothing and Sadie did everything important.  Just some little qualms, though, because they really are so fun - kids will devour them!

Read-alikes:
Read The Red Pyramid first
It's like the Percy Jackson series, of course

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe one or two 

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
some action, not descriptive or graphic

Overall rating: **** 

What do you think of the surge in mythological-based books?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Retro Friday Review: Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Retro Friday is a meme hosted by Angie of Angieville and "focuses on reviewing books from the past. This can be an old favorite, an under-the-radar book you think deserves more attention, something woefully out of print, etc." 

It's been a while since I did a Retro Friday review, and I'm not going very far back, just five years, but it's still a great slightly older book :)

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
Publisher: Razorbill
Publication date: October 2007
Pages: 336
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun

When Clay receives a mysterious package in the mail, he definitely does not expect to hear from Hannah Baker. Hannah committed suicide a few weeks ago and Clay is shocked to find a set of tapes detailing the thirteen reasons why she made that choice. Clay will have to listen to every detail on these tapes to understand what part he played and what he could have done to save her.

Things I Liked:
This was a complicated and often depressing book.  It was also not what I expected.  I thought it would be entirely about how a person was bullied and ended her life because it was too much.  It was that, but it was more.  It was about the impact our actions and words have, the choices we make and how we respond to others.  Blame and trust and how much we are willing to go outside of where we are comfortable.  The cruel things teenagers say and do as well as the kind things.  It was better than I expected, but also worse.  An interesting book for certain, one that every teen should read.  It definitely lent itself well to audio, since the book is about Clay listening to the tapes Hannah left for him.  I think the dual narrators were very well done and I felt the emotions through their voices. 

Things I Didn't Like:
I was actually kind of annoyed at how heavy-handed it seemed for the first part of the book.  It was so obviously trying to teach us of the Impact Things We Say Has on Others!  Hannah repeated that over and over and I wished for a lot more subtelty.  It did get better later on, more complicated, less preachy, more realistic.  I think it is a well-done and important book for teens and adults alike, not to mention it has a lot of appeal for teens to.

Read-alikes:
Maybe a bit like before i fall by Lauren Oliver
Hate List by Jennifer Brown

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@ 
plenty scattered throughout, no f-bombs though

mrg-factor: XX 
most of it is implied, but there are a few more descriptive parts

v-factor: -> 
not described, but there is a bit

Overall rating: **** 

How did you feel about this book?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: A Million Suns by Beth Revis

A Million Suns by Beth Revis
Publisher: Razorbill
Publication date: January 2012
Pages: 386
Source: Library
For: Fun
Series: Across the Universe, Book 2

*Spoilers for the first book are quite likely*
Life on Godspeed has gone from ordered to chaos almost overnight.  Now that Elder stopped the use of Phydus, the people seem bent on doing nothing.  But when Elder finds out a big secret about the ship, he must try to fix that and keep control of his people.  Amy is trailing secrets across the ship as well and both are trying to figure out their relationship.  Can they solve the problems they are both facing before it is too late?

Things I Liked:
This book did anything but suffer from sequel-itis!  It was interesting and unique and had just the right balance of continuing story and new story to let it flow smoothly.  I loved the way the ship and its inhabitants followed what was a natural pattern - chaos and disarray and rioting from the order that existed before.  Amy and Elder are both conflicted and realistic enough that I wanted to know more about what went on in their heads.  The mystery and plot twists kept me on my toes (though, I had guessed nearly all the surprises and the mystery before they happened - yes even the big one discussed below) and it was just an all-around great read.  Plus, I always adore a book with an amount of space-love equal to my own.

Things I Didn't Like:
I was bothered by two things and these are pretty big spoilers, so don't read this part if you haven't read the book yet:
First, when the Shippers tell Elder the ship is stopped, I was a bit confused; picturing the ship at a standstill in space was hard for my brain, just seems unlikely they would go from moving to not moving, unless they hit something.  Then, it turns out they are in orbit, which actually is NOT stopped.  Could they just not tell the ship was moving or was it just based on them not actually using the engine?  Or, were they just misinformed?  This was never cleared up satisfactorily for me.  Second, one of the big reveals is that they are in orbit around Centauri-Earth, but every time they looked out the windows (which sounds like it happened quite often) they never saw it?  Ok, I can concede that, if they were in a synchronous orbit (ie always the same side of the ship facing the planet) they wouldn't see it, but they would have to see the two suns.  It's kind of hard to miss and the suns would not stay in the same place in relation to the ship!  I'm just not quite believing that, since the planet was pretty much just out of sight from the window that the suns were always just out of sight too.  Ok, so these are probably not things most readers would notice or care about, and they were just things I noticed as I tried to visualize the whole thing using my (albeit somewhat rusty) astronomy brain. *end of spoilers*  And despite these things, I enjoyed the book very much.  Sorry for the rant!

Read-alikes:
Inside Out and Outside In by Maria V. Snyder
Across the Universe by Beth Revis (obviously, read it first)

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 
unless you count "frex"

mrg-factor: none 
kissy kissy

v-factor: ->-> 
a few disturbing scenes, but not graphic at all

Overall rating: **** 

For those who have read it, did those things that bothered me even cross your mind or am I alone? :)  For those who haven't, why not?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Dragon Castle by Joseph Bruchac

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Dragon Castle by Joseph Bruchac
Publisher: Dial
Publication date: June 2011
Pages: 352
Source: Library
For: Cybils

Prince Rashko is frustrated that he's the only one in the family who can think straight.  His foolish parents and ridiculous older brother seem incompetent to care for the kingdom.  So, when his parents disappear right when a mysterious and powerful stranger appears, Rashko knows it's up to him to make sure the castle and kingdom are safe.  But he might have to depend on his foolish family and his unique ancestry to help him.

Things I Liked:
I loved the beautiful setting and the lovely Slovak details of this story (probably because I had such a great time visiting the Czech Republic a few years back)!  The characters, the folk tale-ish feel of it, all of these things appealed to me.  The whole story and atmosphere had me drawn into its details almost from the first.  I loved the characters too, how Rashko thinks he's so smart and everyone in his family is moronic - it was very teenage of him.  I think the relationships between all members of the family are really interesting, particularly the way our perceptions (and Rashko's too) change toward them is really well done.  And the book also manages to have humor!  An awesome historical fantasy with an eastern European flavor.  A favorite part:

"I lovely young human woman who was prisoner of bad monster.  Is safe now to put down sword and shield and come rescue me.  I not dragon trying to trick you."
Jedovaty looked up at Pavol with one eye.  "Seven heads," the former donkey observed, "and not a working brain in any one of them?" p 232

Things I Didn't Like:
Some of the story seemed to drag, the pacing wasn't quite on through the whole book.  The flipping back and forth in perspective was annoying sometimes, but I still managed to enjoy it.  And a few times I was bothered by the numerous uses of Slovak language (mostly I loved them), which I think will discourage some kids from finishing it.  Still, it's a strong fantasy book for those who love castles and magic and folk tales and aren't afraid of those more difficult linguistic details.

Read-alikes:
A bit like the Bartimaeus Trilogy by Jonathan Stroud
The Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 
None that I remember

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: ->-> 
there is some fighting and a few frightening parts

Overall rating: **** 

For more middle grade fun, check out Jill at The Owl's March of Middle Grade Books event!

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Inquisitor's Apprentice by Chris Moriarty

The Inquisitor's Apprentice by Chris Moriarty
Publisher: Harcourt Children's Books
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 356
Source: Library
For: Cybils

When one day Sacha can't see witches and the next he can, things go from bad to worse.  He's snached up to become an inquisitor's apprentice, to help eradicate magic from the streets of New York.  But when he becomes embroiled in a plot to assassinate Thomas Edison, his job and his life become a lot more complicated.  Will he be able to figure out who's trying to kill Edison before he loses his own life?

Things I Liked:
The story in this one had me caught in its web.  It intrigued, it surprised, it made me laugh and cry.  The book was more than its story though.  It had real characters - Sacha was so complicated and so vulnerable and so powerful at once.  I loved the view of society in New York during the early 1900s - the historical detail was fantastic.  The racism and the many different cultures, and the difference between ideals and reality and rich and poor in America.  All of this was cleverly reshaped with magic as its basis - a very well done alternate history.  I adored it.  Here's a favorite quote: 

Working miracles is like letting out a pair of pants: You can only stretch the fabric of the universe so far before you run out of cloth.  After that, you're stuck deciding whether you want cold ankles or a cold tushie. p 181

Things I Didn't Like:
It was a bit difficult at times to get into, mostly, I think because of the Jewish cultural elements I simply didn't get.  I think if I were Jewish or had grown up in NY with more exposure to Jewish culture, I would have thought this book was perfect.  But sometimes I didn't quite understand what a word meant and I definitely felt confused about what a dybbuk actually is for nearly the entire book.  Many Yiddish phrases were explained, but quite a few were not.  It might be a tough sell for kids and it might be they would see the story and forget about all that other stuff.  It just depends on the kid, I guess.

Read-alikes:
Reminded me of the Leviathan series by Scott Westerfeld
Thirteenth Child by Patricia C. Wrede

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
one or two

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: -> 
a little bit, but mostly it has some scary elements

Overall rating: **** 

Do you like reading alternate histories with magical elements?  What's your favorite book like this?

Bonus: for more middle grade greatness, check out Jill at The Owl's March of Middle Grade Books event!

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George
Publisher: Bloomsbury Childrens
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 240
Source: Library
For: Cybils
Series: Yes, this is Book 1
 

Castle Glower is not your everyday garden variety castle.  It is constantly changing, moving around, creating new rooms or closets or stairs.  When Celie's parents disappear, though, things become a lot more difficult at home.  Diplomats from other countries are trying to take over the throne.  Can the Glower children protect their parents' throne - and the kingdom - with the help of their castle?

Things I Liked:
I fell in love with the castle right on the first page. This sweet and funny adventure in a castle with a personality all its own was such a delight to read! The Glower children were also fun to read about, Celie of course being my favorite. I liked the nice combination of the silly, funny, and serious that made this one a light but thoughtful book. Definitely a fun new series for MG fans looking for magic and castles.  Sweet and just what one expects of a mg fantasy.  It even has some boy appeal, if they can get past the girly cover (which, is a big "if").

Things I Didn't Like:
I was just a touch disappointed in the ending, since it seemed a bit hurried, unexplained, and convenient. There were some hard things to face, but it almost seemed like they were too easily taken care of. Not much in the way of explanation for Celie's parents being gone so long, particularly as this is a big plot point. But, still an enjoyable read.

Read-alikes:
Dragon Slippers series by Jessica Day George
Princess Ben by Catherine Gilbert Murdock
Anything Gail Carson Levine
Once Upon a Marigold by Jean Ferris

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: none 

Overall rating: ****

Would you want to live in a castle that is constantly changing?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Queen of Kentucky by Alecia Whitaker

The Queen of Kentucky by Alecia Whitaker
Publisher: Little, Brown
Publication date: January 2012
Pages: 384
Source: ARC provided by publisher
For: Review

Ricki Jo is determined to start fresh when she begins high school, beginning with being called Ericka. She hangs out with the right people, buys the right clothes, and even flirts with the right boy. But when her best friend Luke says he misses the old Ricki Jo, she begins to wonder if she wants to change who she is. If she wants to be the kind of friend that doesn't really care, or the kind of girl who would let a boy walk all over her.

Things I Liked:
I really enjoyed the fresh voice and characters of this book!  Ricki Jo (I mean, Ericka) was interesting and she really felt like a teenager to me.  She made mistakes and had misconceptions and made choices based on feelings.  Her life was like a rollar coaster, which totally reminded me of the ups and downs of teenagehood.  The romance was pretty true too - the feeling of liking someone, even if you know they aren't good for you.  I liked the characters and the plot and the down to earth real-ness of the whole thing.  I really liked how it didn't progress as I expected.  From the beginning, you think it is going to go one, predictably cliche way, but it actually doesn't.  The plot goes its own way.  One other thing was a character who is religious and her family is religious, but they are portrayed well.  Religion was not the point, they were not ridiculous or crazy or downright scary.  Just people who happen to have religion in their lives.  Here's a quote that sums it up pretty well:

A lot of the time, I feel totally backward.  Like everything I do is inside out.  I dress wrong and have to back up to square one to catch up with the style.  I've never been kissed, so I read articles about other girls' stories.  Everybody I know is growing, while I seem to be stuck in the body of a ten-year-old boy.  And my new friends all have crushes on the boy I'm in love with. p 160 of ARC

Things I Didn't Like:
There were a few times where I think the book didn't know what it was doing or where it was going.  It had a lot of things going on and it almost seemed like we had no true destination.  Mind you, I had no problems while I was reading, but usually after I put it down for a while, I would start to wonder.  The ending seemed a little neat, Ricki Jo suddenly changing, despite being stubborn throughout the entire book.  I wish there had been a touch more development before that.  But overall, I really enjoyed the book.

Read-alikes:
Ten Miles Past Normal by Frances O'Roark Dowell
Populazzi by Elise Allen

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
not too many, actually

mrg-factor: X 
a little bit of implied stuff, nothing on page

v-factor: none 
unrelated, but there was some underage drinking

Overall rating: **** 

It has such a cute book trailer too, made by teens! Check it out.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Variant by Robison Wells

Variant by Robison Wells
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 384
Source: ARC provided by publisher
For: Review
Series: Variant, Book 1

When Benson gets a scholarship to a remote private school in New Mexico, he thinks it's the beginning of a new life.  But when he arrives at a school with no adults, gangs of students, and no way out, he is definitely not prepared.  As the mysteries of this school just keep piling up, Benson is determined to escape, no matter the cost. 

Things I Liked:
What an action-packed and twisty story!  I loved how the plot built the tension slowly and carefully, how Benson wondered about everything and everyone.  I was enthralled by the different attitudes and personalities that were portrayed by students all in the same position.  I was pretty much blown away by the surprises and stunned at everything that happened, not to mention how it happened.  This is a surprising read with lots of action, suspense, and twists - not to mention psychological bending that makes you wonder if you're going crazy too!  I think this one will have a lot of boy-appeal and pretty much anyone who likes crazy action and surprise endings will love it.  (Side note: not sure how to fit this into the genre mold - not exactly dystopian, but kind of a little bit...)

Things I Didn't Like:
The characters didn't feel very developed.  The story definitely took a front stage on this one and the characters were more just a part of the action.  Benson was pretty well developed, but the minors felt very flat.  I liked Becky because she actually seemed to have some character, but most of the others just didn't have that spark.  I think Wells has a lot of potential and the writing is pretty good, but I wanted a little something more than story.  Still, couldn't quite believe what was going on and near the end my jaw was aching from being dropped so many times.  Read this one when you want something unexpected! 

Read-alikes:
The Maze Runner series by James Dashner
Lord of the Flies by William Golding

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
surprisingly few

mrg-factor: none 
just some kissing

v-factor: ->-> 
some gory fist fighting and the like

Overall rating: **** 

Which do you like more - books about story or books about characters (if you had to pick between them, of course)?

Looking for more dystopian goodness?  Be sure to stop at Presenting Lenore's Dystopian February celebration.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness (inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd)
Publisher: Candlewick
Publication date: September 2011
Pages: 224
Source: e-book from NetGalley
For: Review (and Cybils)

When Conor wakes up one night with a monster outside his window, he isn't afraid.  He expected a monster, ever since his mom started her cancer treatments.  But this monster is different, and he wants something painful from Conor.  Will Conor be able to face this monster that pushes his understanding of himself and his mother beyond what he is comfortable with?

Things I Liked:
This is a thoughtful and tough little book.  I liked the combination of realistic situations and real tragedy as well as a sort of fantasy element.  I think this book is one that I'd definitely label magical realism.  I was interested in the monster - what it was, what it represented, why it was there, what it was doing, etc.  I think the idea of it and the things we slowly understand about it make the book compelling.  But really, it is the ideas and the hard look at what life is like when you have a terminally ill family member that make this unforgettable.  I liked how it wasn't glossed over, how Conor made mistakes and the struggles he has fitting his home life and his school life together.  The issues he faces and the personal demons are so realistic they will make you cry.  A lot.  Beautiful story, beautifully told.  I first read the book on my kindle (thank you NetGalley), but hated the format for the illustrations (which was more like a non-format).  I did finally check it out from the library and got to appreciate fully the beauty of those illustrations.

Things I Didn't Like:
I have to admit, I found some of the details of the monster's story a bit distracting from Conor's story.  There were some really complex and abstract concepts thrown around in relation to Conor and I am quite sure I didn't fully grasp them.  I kind of wanted something I could nail down and understand.  And I really questioned the kid-appeal of this one for the Cybils.  I just couldn't see a general interest in such a dark and sometimes quite depressing book.  Something that I can't quite put my finger on is holding me back from giving this one five stars.  But I absolutely recommend it.

Read-alikes:
This one is pretty unique, maybe a little like Umbrella Summer by Lisa Graff

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
one or two

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: -> 
not so much violent as raw and a bit scary in places

Overall rating: **** 

What did you love about this book?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Cheshire Cheese Cat by Carmen Agra Deedy, Randall Wright, and Barry Moser

The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale by Carmen Agra Deedy, Randall Wright, and Barry Moser
Publisher: Peachtree Publishers
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 256
Source: Library
For: Cybils

Skilley, an unusual alley cat, manages to secure his place as mouser in the Cheshire Cheese, an inn famous for - what else - its delicious cheese.  When he meets Pip, an equally unusual mouse, and one who discovers Skilley's darkest secret, they form an odd friendship that will be tested in more ways than either can imagine. 

Things I Liked:
What a fun and clever book!  I loved the Dickensian feel of the story, especially how Dickens and other historical figures of the time were woven into this sweet little tale of friendship and loyalty.  All of us on the Cybils panel were pleasantly surprised to find that, not only was this a delightful animal tale, but it had a depth and character that made it stand apart from the pack.  And I truly loved the illustrations - they went just perfectly with the text and feeling of the story.  It's just perfect for lovers of Dickens or animal tales or just plain Old English fun!

Things I Didn't Like:
I wondered if kids would enjoy it quite as much as adults, especially since it has lots of references to Dickens: War and Peace, Great Expectations, etc.  I think it might not be as fun for them if they aren't familiar with his stuff.  But, as was mentioned in the blurb from our panel, the hope is that they will remember this fun book when they get older and appreciate it more as they become more familiar with Dickens.  It certainly isn't necessary to be a Dickens fan to love this book, though!  So happy that it took home a Cybils prize.

Read-alikes:
The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
Bless This Mouse by Lois Lowry

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: none 

Overall rating: **** 

Perfect timing for Dickens' 200th birthday! What's your favorite Dickens-related book?
If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Prized by Caragh M. O'Brien

Prized by Caragh M. O'Brien
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
Publication date: November 2011
Pages: 368
Source: e-book from NetGalley
For: Review
Series: Birthmarked trilogy, Book 2

*Spoilers for Birthmarked very likely*
Set to wandering in a wasteland with few supplies and her infant sister, Gaia's plight seems hopeless. Until she is picked up by an outrider and taken to Sylum, a very different kind of society from the one she left behind. Women are outnumbered two to one and hold all the power too. But in order to see her sister, Gaia must obey the strict society rules and change the way she thinks of the world. Will she be able to give up all she believes and wants or will she find a way to reconcile the two worlds?

Things I Liked:
I was really surprised with the direction this book went.  This is definitely not a sequel that just rehashes the first book, or bridges to another book.  This is almost a stand alone story.  I really enjoyed how it was completely its own book, didn't depend (much) on the first book, and was still interesting.  What made the book for me, though, was Gaia.  She was a flawed, realistic, confused, but still strong person - especially in the way she dealt with the Matrarc.  I kept wanting to read so I could figure her out, since she made both mistakes and hard choices.  She was complex and had a lot of emotions and different motivations warring in her.  Her choices eventually led to the (somewhat predictable) ending, but were still hard to make and interesting in the consequences.  A strong book with a compelling main character.

Things I Didn't Like:
It actually kind of dragged for a while.  The middle felt so slow I often set the book aside.  And I wasn't too impressed with the way Sylum was set up, how they were kept there, and what Gaia found out about them.  It felt only quasi-scientific and just didn't really make sense when I sat and thought about it.  And yes, the love square was rather annoying.  But didn't bug me too much, even if she should have figured out what she wanted way before she finally did.  Definitely its the character development that made this one good to me, not so much the world building or romance.

Read-alikes:
Obviously, start with Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien
Reminded me a bit of the society in The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan (though, obviously without the zombies) and Wither by Lauren DeStefano

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
maybe a few

mrg-factor: X 
some kissing, mostly it was birthing scenes that might be a bit graphic

v-factor: -> 
again, it was more for the births, though there is some minor fighting

Overall rating: **** 

What stood out to you in this one?

Looking for more dystopian goodness?  Be sure to stop at Presenting Lenore's Dystopian February celebration.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins

Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile
Publication date: September 2011
Pages: 384
Source: Library
For: Fun
Series: Companion novel to Anna and the French Kiss

Lola thinks she has it all together. She's dating a hot rocker guy and her plans for the future are in order. But when the Bell twins move back in next door, her life is turned upside down. Cricket Bell, the boy who broke her heart, is suddenly in her life again and nothing feels right anymore.

Things I Liked:
I was so happy that I picked this one up!  I was one of the very few not blown away by Anna and the French Kiss.  I did not adore St. Clair or Anna and I didn't think it was the greatest book I'd read (which, you know, it seemed like everyone else did).  But this one, this felt more like what I remember of high school romance.  Lola was so much fun!  I loved her personality and her insecurities and her fashion choices (obviously).  I loved Cricket even more.  He made this book for me.  He was the epitome of what the boy next door means.  Their weird and hesitant and confusing relationship was so well drawn, so real that I began to think of them as real people.  Perhaps I liked it more than Anna, because it felt more like what I experienced in high school.  Just what I like in a nice light romance.  Happy to be a Stephanie Perkins fan now.  Here are some favorite parts:

I don't believe in fashion.  I believe in costume.  Life is too short to be the same person every day.  p 7

I wonder if he's looking at my butt.
WHY DID I JUST THINK THAT?  Now my butt feels COLOSSAL. Maybe he's looking at my legs.  Is that better?  Or worse?  Do I want him looking at me?  I hold on to the bottom of my dress as I climb into the backseat and crawl to the other side.  I'm sure he's looking at my butt.  He has to be.  It's huge, and it's right there, and it's huge. p 128

Things I Didn't Like:
Honestly, it seemed like there was a LOT of other stuff going on.  There were so many issues in Cricket's family and Lola's family that it seemed just a bit too much.  Yes, there is usually family drama going on, but it felt overdone at times.  Still, loved it.  Would recommend it to pretty much everyone.

Read-alikes:
Of course, Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
Otherwise, I really have no good read-alike ideas...

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@
not too much, actually, but it's there

mrg-factor: XX
I really didn't like her boyfriend

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ****

Any read-alike suggestions for these books?  I'm completely at a loss.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication date: January 2012
Pages: 384
Source: ARC provided by publisher
For: Review
Series: Under the Never Sky, Book 1

When Aria finds herself thrown from her safely enclosed city, she is terrified of what she'll find in the Outside.  Things are nearly as bad as she pictured, with aether storms, wild animals, and the savage people who live on the outside.  But she must trust herself to one of those savages, Perry, if she is to get back to her home again.  And Perry must travel with Aria, despite his disgust for her soft Dweller ways, in order to save someone he loves.  Will the two survive the Outside, and each other?

Things I Liked:
I enjoyed the compelling ideas about our future this book portrayed, especially the way people spend most of their time living in virtual reality (which, honestly, is an idea I've had for a book for quite some time, so maybe I'm biased a bit).  I liked watching Aria experience life on the outside, in the real world, and the very real differences between Aria and Perry. Those differences didn't change, which allowed the characters themselves to change their perspectives.  I loved how their relationship developed - how it was slow and steady and had setbacks and wasn't instant or eternal.  No love triangle, just real obstacles.  And what kept me reading was that I had no idea where the story was going.  The ending and a lot of the lead up were not predictable (at least to me).  It was unique, well-crafted, smart and complex. No huge cliffhanger, but some interesting plot points for a sequel.  All around, it's an impressive dystopian debut that avoids some of the tropes of its genre.

Things I Didn't Like:
There were some things about the future tech and explanations for how the world ended up that way that didn't entirely satisfy me.  The world building felt a bit cursory or shallow.  Essentially, I wanted more!  Hopefully more about the Aether and the technology will be coming in the sequels.

Read-alikes:
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
Matched and Crossed by Ally Condie

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@
not too many, but some

mrg-factor: XX
not on page, but implied

v-factor: ->-> 
definitely some action, a bit gory at times

Overall rating: **** 

What does your idea of the future look like?

Looking for more dystopian goodness?  Be sure to stop at Presenting Lenore's Dystopian February celebration.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Fox Inheritance by Mary Pearson

The Fox Inheritance by Mary Pearson
Publisher: Henry Holt
Publication date: August 2011
Pages: 304
Source: ARC provided by publisher
For: Review
Series: Jenna Fox Chronicles, Book 2

*Spoilers for The Adoration of Jenna Fox*
Two hundred and sixty years after Jenna woke up, her two best friends Kara and Locke have finally been released.  After spending centuries locked inside their own memories in the dark, the two are trying to adjust to a new life, in a completely new world.  As they learn more about their new place in this world, they become more and more anxious to find the one person they remember from before: Jenna.

Things I Liked:
I'm always excited to read books about future ethical issues, particularly medical ethics.  And this book also has a fabulous story to go with it.  It has complex and interesting characters, internal and external conflict, and all the makings of a spanking good story.  I love how Pearson's future world felt realistic and totally believable - I can see how these types of medical advances just might be possible.  I liked being in Locke's head, feeling all that he experienced being in a new world and trying to figure things out, all while still dealing with the horrible past he couldn't forget.  A book that will make you think deeply about what being human means.  Here's  some of my favorite parts:

I have a fabricated body. I am in a world that is completely different from the one I was born into. What I think is all I have left. My mind is the only thing that makes me different from a fancy toaster. What we think does matter - it's all we truly have. p 105

My surprise at the mission suddenly clicks. I didn't picture a future that would have room for faith. I thought everything would be explainable by now, right down to the atom of every mystery, but the world has more mysteries for me now than it ever did. In fact, I am one of those mysteries. How does someone like me fit into this world now? p 180-181

I told you Bots dream. At least some of us do, whether we are supposed to or not, we dream. Some of us think beyond our cabs, we imagine where our customers go and what things they see. When they jump into our cabs, we imagine where they have been, and how it has changed them.their worlds become our secret worlds, and sometimes we share those places with others like us and sometimes ed even dare to dream that those worlds could be lures knew day. We don't know if that could ever be true for us, but we hear stories. And now...I am one of those stories. Escape is not about moving from one place to another. It's about becoming more. p 249-250

Things I Didn't Like:
Despite the great story surrounding Locke and Kara, I was not as interested as when we were in Jenna's head in the first book.  Also, some parts of it were slow and made me want to put it down. Still, I wholeheartedly enjoyed this sequel/companion novel to one of my favorite futuristic books, The Adoration of Jenna Fox.

Read-alikes:
Start with The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary Pearson
Unwind by Neal Shusterman
The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
a few

mrg-factor: X
a little bit implied

v-factor: ->
a bit here and there, nothing too gory

Overall rating: ****

What's your favorite thing about futuristic books?

Looking for more dystopian goodness?  Be sure to stop at Presenting Lenore's Dystopian February celebration.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Ivy and the Meanstalk by Dawn Lairamore

 Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Ivy and the Meanstalk by Dawn Lairamore
Publisher: Holiday House
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 221
Source: Review copy provided by publicist
For: Review
Series: Sequel to Ivy's Ever After

Princess Ivy and her dragon friend Elridge seem to be settling down after saving Ivy's kingdom.  But not for long.  When a giant beanstalk disrupts Ivy's fairy godmother's wedding, Ivy and Elridge are pulled into another new adventure.  This time, they must recover a stolen harp to help an angry insomniac giantess before it is too late for the kingdom.  Can they convince the greedy king who has it to help them out?

Things I Liked:
This was another fun adventure for Princess Ivy and her faithful dragon friend Elridge.  I loved the way the Jack and the Beanstalk tale is woven throughout, but has a very different perspective from the usual.  It is a fractured fairy tale at its best.  I love Ivy and the way she grows and changes over the book, but also the way she doesn't fit into the typical princess mold - and doesn't particularly care if she does.  Her zany adventures are a blast, and there is some depth and thought to the book, making it more than just fluff.

Things I Didn't Like:
These books are fun for younger MG/older elementary kids, though the end was just a little too easy (though there were some surprising difficulties as well).  Change came to some characters a bit too quickly, but fortunately not for Ivy.  Still an enjoyable read for those who might like a light twist on the typical fairy tale.

Read-alikes:
Read the first in the series, Ivy's Ever After by Dawn Lairamore
Reminded me of Jessica Day George's Dragon Slippers books

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: none 

Overall rating: **** 

What's your favorite fractured fairy tale?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: This Dark Endeavour by Kenneth Oppel

This Dark Endeavor: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein by Kenneth Oppel
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication date: August 2011
Pages: 304
Source: Library
For: Fun
Series: Yes, Book 1.

Viktor and Konrad are twin brothers who have shared just about everythin in life. But when Konrad becomes ill, Viktor finds that the only place he can turn is to alchemy and a dark secret hidden in his father's house. Will he be able to save Konrad before it is too late, or will he find that he has fallen into something much deeper and darker than he imagined?

Things I Liked:
[I totally wish I'd read this in 2012, so I could pair it with Frankenstein for my Classic Double Challenge.  Alas, I didn't.]  Just the concept of seeing Frankenstein as a teen delights me.  I really enjoyed the interactions of the characters, including a love triangle that didn't suck.  I especially liked seeing Viktor wonder about his motivations and the lengths he'd go to in order to save his brother.  I thought it was a pretty good backstory that fit right in with the classic book.  There was also quite a few exciting adventures and a touch of the Gothic spookiness from the original tale.  A pleasure to read. I liked Elizabeth a lot:

"I just assumed it would be Henry and me climbing the tree."
"Oh."  she nodded humbly.  "Yes.  I suppose that makes the most sense.  I can just wait at the bottom and do needlepoint by the light of the lantern-"
"Elizabeth-," I said, hearing the fire kindling in her voice.
"-or just daydream about the latest Paris fashions." p 105

Things I Didn't Like:
It definitely doesn't have the spark or the depth of ethical issues that Frankenstein does.  I guess that's what happens when you talk about what some crazy guy did before he went really crazy! 

Read-alikes:
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
A little like Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy by Michelle Zink for the atmosphere and Gothic feel

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
one or two

mrg-factor: none 
a bit of kissing, though

v-factor: -> 
some rather intense parts, a little fighting

Overall rating: **** 

What do you think of a prequel for a classic book?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage