Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
Westerfeld, Scott. Uglies. New York : Simon Pulse, 2005. 425 pages. $8.99
ISBN 0689865384
Readers Annotation: All Tally wants is to be like all the other kids over 16, Pretty. But when her new best friend Shay heads for The Smoke, she may not get her wish.
Plot Summary: In a distant future, Tally is one of the under-16-year-old Uglies. They are pre-operation humans, without the beautiful characteristics of the Pretties. Tally's best friend Peris leaves Uglyville for New Pretty Town and becomes a Pretty himself on his 16th birthday. Tally has to wait three months to join Peris and become a New Pretty. While she waits, she pulls some major pranks and becomes close friends with another prankster, Shay. Shay doesn't want to become Pretty. She may be tall and really skinny, but she likes the way she is. Some of Shay's friends left Uglyville, and avoided becoming Pretty, by running away to The Smoke. The Smoke is a settlement off the radar of modern cities that lives like the Rusties did, off the land without having the body sculpting surgery Pretties undergo. The day before their birthdays, Shay invites Tally to go with her to The Smoke, but Tally refuses. Just in case, Shay leaves encrypted directions for Tally on how to get there. The day of her birthday, Tally expects to get her Pretty-making surgery, but instead is blackmailed into finding Shay and telling the eerie Specials where to find The Smoke. Once Tally reaches The Smoke, and spends a month living in the old way, she appreciates the way the Smokies live. She even finds friendship in David, a boy "born in the wild." As Tally learns to love The Smoke she is faced with some very difficult decisions.
Critical Evaluation: In this futuristic novel, Westerfeld wonders what would happen in a world where everyone is the same. Everyone looks the same, thinks the same, parties all the time, and there is no war. Some of the Uglies, kids pre-operation, see how boring this way of life is and set off in search of the old ways of living. It is interesting to read Westerfeld's commentary at how we're currently treating the earth by eating animals, cutting down trees and using gasoline. It is also interesting to think about why there are so many conflicts. According to Uglies' history, wars occur often because people looked different from each other. In some ways this has been true, but I think wars have been more than that in the past. Westerfeld's writing style isn't terribly challenging, but the ideas he presents can be difficult, but essential, to process.
Information about the Author: Scott Westerfeld is an established young adult author, having published four different series including Uglies, Midnighters, Risen Empire, and Levithian. He also wrote three stand alone young adult novels and five science fiction novels for adults.
Genre: Science Fiction
Age Level: 14 and up, young adult
Curriculum Ties: A great choice to add when reading/discussing books like 1984 and Brave New World. Also an interesting tie in when discussing environmental biology or genetics.
Book talking ideas: Discuss how they think the world will be in the next hundred years. How would things be different if we all looked the same? Would life be boring? Read one of the passages that describes the reconstructive surgery.
Challenge Issues: There are some controversial ideas in Uglies, such as performing surgery to make everyone look the same and have the same skin color.
Why I included it: Up until recently I never wanted to read science fiction. However, I have now become obsessed with science fiction. I've realized that science fiction is just a more scientifically influenced world view as opposed to fantasy, which is a magically influence world view. They are more similar than I thought, and science and magic can sometimes overlap!

Luna by Julie Anne Peters

Luna by Julie Anne Peters
Peters, Julie Anne. Luna. New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2004. 248 pages. $7.99 ISBN 0316011274

Readers Annotation: Regan just wants to have a normal family, but her brother just wants to be recognized as the girl he's been forced to hide.
Plot Summary: Regan has always been there for her brother Liam. Since they were little she knew he was different, but she never realized how different. Over the years she has watched her brother morph into a more feminine boy, and has seen him struggle with the feelings he has about who he really is. Their parents are either too busy or too involved in their own femininity or masculinity to realize what is going on with their children. And if they do realize what Liam is going through, they ignore it. Regan is the only one who understands, and even she has trouble giving Liam what he needs. Liam wants, needs, to be Luna. Luna is his female form and his true self. Luna feels that she was born as a female in a boy's body and is determined to come out to herself and her family. Throughout this metamorphosis, Regan desperately wants to be there for Luna but also just wants to be a normal teen, focusing on her normal teen problems. In the end, Regan's love for her sister usually comes first.
Critical Evaluation: Luna is a phenomenal novel. Peters does an excellent job describing the individual struggles of both Regan and Luna/Liam. In contrast to the open-minded teens, Peters presents their parents as extremely closed-minded feminist/sexists characters. Their mother seems to be all for women out in the work force and is a work-a-holic, often ignoring her children. Their father is a sexist man who believes that cooking and cleaning are a woman's job. They are a strange, and sometimes unbelievable combination, but I think their sharp contrast to Regan and Luna makes their characters stand out even more. I think this novel is a great representation of the struggles transgendered teens face, and a struggle that should be acknowledged.
Information about the Author: Julie Anne Peters has written seven books for GLBT teens, with two more coming out in the fall. She has also published eight books for elementary and middle school kids. Many of her teen novels have been on best books lists and honored with awards, including Luna, which was a National Book Award Finalist.
Genre: GLBT
Age Level: Ages 12 and up
Curriculum Ties: A great addition to a human rights study. Also benefical when talking about sexuality and self-esteem.
Book talking ideas: Discuss how it would feel to be trapped in another body, or if they were trapped in the body of someone of the opposite sex.
Challenge Issues: The idea of being transgendered may be unwelcome by some people who do not agree with GBLT lifestyles. However, there are many teens who need books like this to help them get through their transition and help them feel like how the feel is valid.
Why I included it: I included this book not only because we read it for class, but also because it has been honored by many libraries and groups. It touches on some issues that are often overlooked, but are necessary in order to represent all teens.

Gossip Girl by Cecily von Ziegesar

Gossip Girl by Cecily von Ziegesar
von Ziegesar, Cecily. Gossip Girl. New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2002. 201 pages. $10.99 ISBN 0316910333
Readers Annotation: In the Upper East Side or Manhattan, teens are given free reign of limitless money, clothes, drugs and alcohol.
Plot Summary: After being away at boarding school for a year, Serena Van Der Woodson returns to Constance Billard for her senior year. She hoped that the past would be forgotten, and she would go back to being best friends with Blair Waldorf, but it seems that Blair enjoyed her rise to the top in Serena's absence. Jenny, a freshman, is eager to become part of the elite group of girls at Constance so she offers her art skills for invitations to the Kiss on the Lips charity party, and in return she must be able to attend. Dan, Jenny's brother, has been obsessed with Serena as long as he can remember and is awe struck when she tries out for a part in his friend Vanessa's film. Vanessa is in love with Dan, however, and refuses Serena the part. Chuck is in love with all women and will stop at nothing to get in their pants, where as his friend Nate, an habitual pot-smoker, is confused as to whether he loves his girlfriend Blair or his first time Serena more. This crazy bunch are thrown together on the night of the Kiss on the Lips party, and not everything goes as planned.
Critical Evaluation: When I started this book I wasn't sure what to expect. Every few chapters there is a screen shot of the Gossip Girl blog discussing the latest Upper East Side Gossip. Other than these blips, the book is fairly unimaginative. The conversations the characters have are ridiculous, somewhere in between immature teen and uber-mature adult. The situations these teens are in seem to be way above their age level, but some how they make it seem ordinary and at times boring. The book just seems poorly written, although I suppose teens want a quick read that gives them a glimpse into the supposed New York City social scene. Personally, I didn't like this book, but I'm afraid there are many, many teens out there that do.
Information about the Author: Cecily von Ziegesar was one of the Upper East Side private school students. Since her private school days she has written 13 Gossip Girl Novels, and has two spin off series called The It Girl and The Carlyles.
Genre: Drama
Age Level: Ages 15 and up
Curriculum Ties: None
Book talking ideas: Talk about the changes made when books are made into tv shows or movies. Also discuss the differences between these elite teens and the average teen.
Challenge Issues: The sexual encounters, lude behavior, language usage, drug and alcohol use may be issues for most parents.
Why I included it: I included Gossip Girl because I happen to love the TV show but for some reason the TV show makes it seem so much more sophisticated. I also know that the series of books is very popular among teens.

Daisy Kutter: The Last Train a graphic novel by Kazu Kibuishi

Daisy Kutter: The Last Train a graphic novel by Kazu Kibuishi

Kibuishi, Kazu. Daisy Kutter: The Last Train. Second Ed. Irving, TX: Viper Comics, 2006. 192 pages. $10.95 ISBN 0975419323

Readers Annotation: In the New West, Daisy Kutter is the best.
Plot Summary: In the future, the world of machines will go back to the Old West in the form of the New West. Daisy and her old partner in crime Tom don't see eye to eye anymore. Daisy, while she may not live the life of crime she used to, doesn't agree with Tom's decision to be the sheriff of their town. She does agree to helping patrol poker night at the town saloon. In the last game of the night, Daisy plays against Mr. Winters. She is so confident that she bets her store. Unfortunately for her, she loses. An opportunity for her to win back her store comes in the form of another criminal and his robot sidekick. Their boss, who happens to be Mr. Winters, has a proposition for Daisy. He wants her, the best in the west, to rob his own train to test his new security defenses. Desperate for her store back she agrees. Daisy, Tom, and the two newbies board the train and easily take down the three robots they think are the new security. However, they were just the beginning.
Critical Evaluation: This black and white graphic novel is not only wonderfully illustrated but an interesting read as well. The idea of robots being part of an old west type of civilization is fascinating, and brings back a Wild Wild West style. Even though the illustrations are in black and white, I imagined everything in full color down to the colors of the playing cards, and red of the blood. Although the idea of a futuristic old west isn't anything new, the way Kazu presents it is very than any other graphic novel I've seen. The illustrations aren't meant to be overly realistic but a representation, with much left to the reader's imagination. There is plenty of action, adventure, mystery, and romance for everyone.
Information about the Author: Kazu has done work with Flight and created the graphic novel Amulet with volume two due out in the fall. Kazu also does prints and original art.
Genre: Science Fiction, Graphic Novel
Age Level: Ages 13 and up
Curriculum Ties: Could be used as an alternate old west when learning about the real old west.
Book talking ideas: Discuss alternate histories, or in this case a future that has brought elements of the past with it.
Challenge Issues: No challenge issues.
Why I included it: I included this graphic novel because I found the idea of a futuristic old west to be fascinating, kind of like Wild, Wild West.

Climbing the Stairs by Padma Venkatraman

Climbing the Stairs by Padma Venkatraman

Venkatraman, Padma. Climbing the Stairs. G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2008. 247 pages. $16.99. ISBN 0399247467

Readers Annotation: In WWII India, Vidya comes to terms with her closed-minded aunts and uncles after her father is paralyzed in a “non-violent” protest.

Plot Summary: Vidya lives in tumultuous times in India. Not only were the late 30’s, early 40’s a time of great fear of Hitler and his armies, but also a time during the struggle for India’s independence. Vidya’s father has been secretly aiding the non-violent protestors by providing medical care to those who are injured. She has a good life, a promise of college and an open-minded family. When Vidya’s father is mentally paralyzed by British police during a march, the family moves in with her father’s family. This family isn’t as open minded as her parents and Vidya soon seeks solace from her aunts’ cruelty in her grandfather’s library. Here she meets Raman, a smart young man with a promising future. As the war gets closer, and her brother joins the army, Vidya realizes what she really wants to do with her life.

Critical Evaluation: I was drawn to this book because I never connected India to the rest of the world during WWII. I always imagined they were blissfully unaware of the horrors of the war. I also didn’t realize that their fight for independence from Britain was going on at the same time the British were fighting the Nazis. Venkatraman’s story, which is a mixture of many of her own family’s experiences, opened my eyes to a side of India I’ve never known. When I started the book I discussed it with my husband’s family who are Indian, and they informed me that Vidya means knowledge or wisdom. It is interesting that she gave the main character such a weighty name, when her dream is to attend university and all she wants to do is learn. I was exceedingly frustrated with Vidya’s family for the way the treated her and talked about her disabled father. It was hard to put down because I just wanted to find out if she would pursue her dreams despite the lack of support from her family. This book should be in every YA collection and a must read for those who have an interest in WWII, for a glimpse into another point of view about the war.

Reading Level: The reading level and interest level of this book would be suited for older teens, sixteen and up.
Book talk Ideas: I would read the part of the book where Vidya gets entangled in a protest and her father is brutally attacked. I would then discuss that the peaceful protests during the Indian fight for independence often didn’t remain peaceful. I would also discuss the role the volunteer Indian army had in the Allied forces during WWII.

Why it is included: I chose this book because I’d never read a book that took place during WWII in India. In 208 it was a nominee for the Cybils Young Adult Novels award, a 2009 YALSA best book for young adults, and on several other best books lists.

Challenge Issues: The brutality of Vidya’s father’s attack and the degrading terms her family uses for her mentally disabled father could cause concern. I would argue that with all historical piece the terms and mindset of the characters reflects those of the time and it is beneficial to learn about these prejudices and see where we’ve come.

Pirates!: The True and Remarkable Adventures of Minerva Sharpe and Nancy Kington, Female Pirates by Celia Rees

Pirates!: The True and Remarkable Adventures of Minerva Sharpe and Nancy Kington, Female Pirates by Celia Rees

Rees, Celia. Pirates!: The True and Remarkable Adventures of Minerva Sharpe and Nancy Kington, Female Pirates. Bloomsbury, 2003. 379 pages. $16.95. ISBN 1582348162

Plot Summary: Nancy Kington’s life is turned upside down when her father dies and she is sent to Jamaica to live on the family plantation. Not only is she told she is to marry a man she despises but she is heartbroken by they way the slaves are treated. To escape the arranged marriage and the cruelty of the plantation, Nancy and her friend Minerva, a slave, run away. They find themselves on a pirate ship and soon take their roles among the pirates. Minerva seems best adapted to the pirate life, but Nancy is concerned about her true love and childhood friend, now a Navy officer and every pirate’s enemy. As the reader follows the twist and turns, it would seem that Nancy and Minerva are not just connected by their friendship and swashbuckling ways. The story is full of pirate induced gore, chases on the high seas, and a glimpse into the horrors of both piracy and slavery in the eighteenth century.

Critical Evaluation: Rees creates a unique tale in Pirates, with the decision of the characters to flee their horrible circumstances and become pirates. I’ve heard that there were actually female pirates, but never thought about how a woman would get into such a trade. The situations of Nancy and Minerva, before their escape into piracy, were maddening, mostly because I knew that women were treated this way at one point. When the two girls become pirates and create this tough female persona, I was happy for this small victory for women even though I doubt many women of their time were able to escape like they were. The brutal details of both their lives before and after they ran away make this book suitable for older teens. I felt Rees did a great job creating a believable story with the right mixture of adventure, violence, friendship and love.

Reading Level: This book would be best suited for older teens, ages fifteen to eighteen.

Book talk ideas: After reading a selection from the book I would talk about the strong women Nancy and Minerva portray and it isn’t everyday we read about female pirates. I would also discuss realities of the slave trade.

Why it is included: I chose this book because I had read it before and loved it. I loved the idea of two teenage girls leaving their unhappy lives to become pirates. It is also on several best book lists, won the Thumbs Up! Award in 2004, and won several state given awards.

Challenge issues: The graphic nature of several situations in the novel could be controversial. Again, I would argue the truth behind the story and that it is stories like these that make us appreciate where we are today.

Newes from the Dead by Mary Hooper

Newes from the Dead by Mary Hooper

Hooper, Mary. Newes from the Dead: being a true story of Anne Green, hanged for infanticide at Oxford Assizes in 1650, restored to the world and died again 1665. Roaring Brook Press, 2008. 263 pages. $16.95. ISBN 1596433558

Readers Annotation: After being hanged for murder, Anne Green relives her past while coming to terms with her current state, either being alive or dead. On the outside, the young medical student Robert does what he can to convince the scholars their corpse is in fact alive.

Plot Summary: Anne Green was a kind young woman, but very naïve. Waking up in a dark room, and unable to move, Anne recounts her life of the past year. Working in the house of Lord Thomas she has always done her duty. One day she meets John the apprentice of a local tradesman. After months of walking together, Anne realizes she could be very happy with John. However, when the grandson of Lord Thomas arrives, her life takes a very different course. Geoffrey pays much attention to Anne, getting her to laugh at his jokes and paying her compliments. Finally he seduces her with talk of making her mistress of the household if she only gives him what he wants. After several meetings like this, Anne realizes she must cut ties with John if she is to become mistress of the household. However, Geoffrey goes back to university and Anne finds herself pregnant with no one to turn to. She hides her pregnancy as best she can and waits for Geoffrey’s return so she can tell him the news. But when Geoffrey returns with news of his engagement to another young woman, Anne realizes how foolish she had been. Much too early, Anne goes into labor and gives birth to a stillborn child all alone in the privy. She hides the child in order to give him a proper burial the next day but is found out before she can clean up. Anne is accused of murdering the child and sent to Oxford to be sentenced. Her sentence is to be hanged, and Anne realizes she must be in purgatory, awaiting the fires to cleanse her sins. While Anne recounts her many mistakes, the young scholar Robert is assembled with fellow medical students and doctors preparing to dissect Anne. However, Robert is convinced she is still alive. Soon the rest of the party is convinced and they try everything they can think of to revive her. Will they succeed in reviving poor Anne, whom they recognize as being wrongly accused, or will she remain in the blackness of purgatory forever?

Critical Evaluation: The story of Anne Green is one that everyone should read to gain understanding of the unfair treatment of women in her day, as well as the simple yet effective medical practices they used. Before reading Newes from the Dead, I had never heard of her case. I never thought someone could survive a hanging. Hooper’s portrayal of what I assume to be Anne’s mental state while being in a coma was very creative but yet realistic. The detail Hooper goes into however, involving Anne’s treatment, her birth, and the medical descriptions are quite graphic. There were times I had to stop reading to make the queasiness subside, but then quickly picked the book back up to find out what happened. Even though I thought the book to be very graphic, it needed to be graphic. To tell Anne’s story without going into the details wouldn’t have done it justice. That being said, I don’t think this book would be suitable for teens under fifteen.

Reading Level: This book would best be read by an older teen, sixteen and up, although would be suitable for more mature younger teens.

Book talk ideas: The opening of the book would be the best way to capture the attention of the students. I would discuss that Anne Green’s story is true and deserves to be told because of the wrongs done to her. I would also discuss the relevance to modern times, and that without the studies scholars and doctors of Anne’s time did on cadavers, we wouldn’t be where we are today with modern medicine.

Why it is included: I chose this book because of the interesting point of view, that of Anne who is likely in a coma. Also the fact that it is a true story, and a horrific one at that, was intriguing. In 2009 in was on the Capitol Choices and Outstanding International Books lists.

Challenge Issues: The graphic nature of the sexual references and birth of her still born could cause some controversy. I would argue that it is a true story worthy of being heard, and if they don’t feel comfortable with their teens reading it they shouldn’t let them.

Ivy by Julie Hearn

Ivy by Julie Hearn

Hearn, Julie. Ivy. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2008. 355 pages. $17.99. ISBN 1416925066

Readers Annotation: The laudanum addicted Ivy becomes part of the strange Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood as the model of a brotherhood hopeful.

Plot Summary: After running away from her family, Ivy is taken in by Carroty Kate, a cunning thief, and her group of vagabonds. Ivy learns the trade of snatching good clothes to sell off the backs of children, and also develops a dependency on laudanum. After one of their ruses goes horribly wrong, Ivy goes back to her family. Years later, she is spotted by Oscar, a painter who hopes to become part of the Pre-Raphaelite school of painters. Believing that Ivy is his muse, he attempts to secure her as his model. Her family, poor and very greedy, forces her into his employ. Ivy doesn’t like being a model, but must work or be forced back on the streets. Oscar’s mother doesn’t like Ivy as her sons new model either, and makes every attempt to murder the girl. Oscar’s neighbor, none other than the famous Dante Gabriel Rossetti, sees Ivy one day and decides he needs to have her as his own model. Meanwhile, Ivy finds friendship with Rosa, a girl who runs a home for stray dogs with her father. She finds her passion in life when able to care for the dogs. When invited to stay at Kelmscott Manor, the home of William Morris, Ivy intends to go but is imprisoned by Oscar’s jealous mother in hopes that she will over-dose on laudanum. Just when Ivy thinks she will never escape, an unlikely rescue party appears.

Critical Evaluation: I was drawn to this book when I learned that it centered on the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. I’ve done a few research papers on these artists, and know all of their names and histories. However, I don’t believe the average teenager will recognize the significance of some of the situations in the novel without knowing a bit about the Pre-Raphaelites. Hearn describes the neighbor of Ivy’s employer, discussing his appearance, where he comes from, and the drama associated with him, including digging up his wife’s grave to retrieve a collection of poems. I knew who she was describing, but Hearn never mentioned his name until about ¾ of the way through the novel. Even then, if I remember correctly, she only mentions his last name. Also, when Oscar travels to Kelmscott Manor, Hearn doesn’t directly explain whose manor house it is, and then I believe she only mentions William Morris’s wife’s name. I felt that the book left a lot of guesswork for the reader, if they didn’t have prior knowledge of these artists. That being said, I thought the book was captivating and a very creative glimpse into the lives of Pre-Raphaelite artists, or at least brotherhood hopefuls. She describes the real dangers of laudanum, and makes Ivy such a frustrating character; the reader wants to shake her at times. I think Ivy is a great addition to any YA collection, especially since it seems like the first of its kind.

Reading Level: The reading level of Ivy is high school, fourteen to eighteen, especially because of the drug use.

Book talk ideas: I would read a selection about the state Ivy is in when she is under the influence of laudanum. I would discuss that many people took laudanum as medicine, but it is now considered an hallucinogenic drug. Other books I would suggest include the Gemma Doyle trilogy by Libba Bray, for those interested in the 19th century.

Why it is included: I chose this book mainly for the subject matter. I’d never seen a book, especially a YA book, set in the middle of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. It was on two best book lists in 2008.

Challenge Issues: I think the drug use in the novel would cause some controversy, however at the time laudanum was taken medicinally. Hearn does not portray Ivy’s use of laudanum in a romanticized manor, instead portrays Ivy as we would portray a pot smoker today. Thus it doesn’t encourage drug use, and therefore is not a risk to impressionable minds.

The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner

The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner

Gardner, Sally. The Red Necklace. Dial Books, 2007. 378 pages. $16.99. ISBN 0803731004

Readers Annotation: Suddenly reunited with her estranged father, Sido becomes entangled with a gypsy boy named Yann. In the midst of murder, deceit and love they realize how important they are to one another over the next few years.

Plot Summary: Twelve-year-old Sido was never loved by her father, Marquis de Villeduval. After being away in a convent for years, her father suddenly calls her back to him. This is no kind gesture, however, as his intentions of marrying her off to the evil Count Kalliovski as soon as she is old enough. Also invited to the marquis estate are three magicians, Topelain, Tetu and Fifteen-year-old Yann. While exploring the estate, Yann meets Sido and the two feel drawn to each other. After Count Kalliovski murders Topelain, Yann and Tetu must flee. Yann must make his journey to London alone when his beloved Tetu is killed. After having his palm read by a fellow Romany, Yann rejects his heritage and learns to live as a proper Englishman. Meanwhile, Sido and her father face much danger as aristocracy during the revolution in France. Later, when Yann is seventeen he is called back to Paris to save Sido, and reclaims his Romany heritage. But will the palm reader’s prophecy come true? Is a bullet waiting for Yann back in Paris, or will his love for Sido keep him alive?

Critical Evaluation: The Red Necklace was an exciting read that I could not put down. Although the characters are introduced at a young age, the events that surround Sido and Yann are not those that average twelve and fourteen year olds will grasp. Sido’s imprisonment and forced engagement to such an evil man at twelve, at least in today’s standards, is unheard of. Yann, who never knew his real parents, lives the life of a magician and is forced to flee and deal with the loss of the only family he knew. The French Revolution in general is a difficult period to discuss without feeling nauseous at the thought of the living conditions of the average Frenchman, and how many people met with the Guillotine. Gardner, while she does not gloss over these realities, seems to dilute them a little instead focusing on the maturity of Sido and Yann. While The Red Necklace may be considered a Historical Fantasy with Yann’s ability to read minds and move objects, but I felt that this story was more focused on history than the fantastical. There have always been those with special gifts, and always been magician seeking their newest biggest trick. It was interesting to read a different kind of story of the revolution.

Reading Level: The reading level of the novel is definitely that of twelve to fifteen year olds, but the subject matter would be suitable for fourteen to eighteen.

Book talk ideas: Read a selection from the book, like the scene in the marquis’ library in which the antagonist murders Yann’s magician employer. Discuss the difference between stage magic and fantasy magic and why this wouldn’t necessarily be a fantasy novel. Many people have special gifts, such as being able to read palms. Is it fair to say that people who say they can read minds are lying just because we may not be able to do it ourselves?

Why it is included: I chose The Red Necklace because of the range of characters in the story. I knew if involved a Romany boy, and found this to be an interesting plotline for a book about the French Revolution. It is on the YALSA 2009 Best Books for Young Adults list, as well as four others. It was also a 2008 Cybils nominee for Young Adult Fantasy and Science Fiction.

Challenge issues: Some controversial topics could include the engagement of Sido at such a young age to a much older man. In defense of this I would argue that girls often got married, or engaged at a young age and it wasn’t until the 20th century that this practice became looked down upon, especially once women were able to get a higher education.

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Alcott, Louisa May. Little Women. Barnes and Noble Books, 2004. 327 pages. $4.95. ISBN 076075084X

Readers Annotation: The March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy face many challenges but learn to overcome them during the American Civil War.

Plot Summary: In this Civil War classic, the March sisters learn to make the most of what they are given. After their father loses his fortune they are forced to make do with what they have, but Meg, Jo and Amy dearly miss the fortune they once had. Beth seems to be the only one who is content with living at home and playing her music. Meg finds love in the modest tutor of their neighbor Laurie, while Amy seeks love in the rich friends of Laurie. Jo wants fame as a writer but it isn’t until she meets Professor Bhaer and after the death of her beloved Beth that she begins to write from her heart. It isn’t until later that the sisters find what truly makes them happy.

Critical Evaluation: Although published in the 1860s, Little Women is still widely read among modern women and girls. It has been made into several movies, and has many spin-off novels and non-fiction based on it. The struggles of the March sisters can be felt in almost any family, if only their sisterly love and quarrels. In the twenty-first century, especially in light of recent misfortune in the American economy, I have a feeling their story will have an even greater effect on many young women today. Alcott was able to write a story, which is based upon her own life, which has stood the test of time. It captures the reader and makes one feel as if the March sisters are their own sisters. I feel that Little Women, which could in fact be read by a twelve-year-old or a thirty-year-old, is a novel that all young women should read, especially in their teens when they are figuring out their own lives and dreams.

Reading Level: The reading level of this novel is closer to middle school age than our fifteen to eighteen range, but the interest level of Little Women would suit teens from thirteen to eighteen.

Book talk ideas: Begin by reading a passage, I would read the first chapter. This chapter is essentially a conversation between the sisters, an average moment in their lives, and the reader gets a feel for each of their personalities. Then talk about how teens during the late 1800s weren’t all that different from teens today, they fought with their siblings, had goals and ambitions, dealt with war. Explain that just because a book was published a century ago doesn’t make it less appealing, or less worthy of their time.

Why it is included: I chose this book for the genre study because it is a classic, one that girls read over and over again. I felt that many older books aren’t considered worthy of a teen’s time, but they offer just as much as modern historical fiction, if not more because they’re a direct reflection of the time.

The Stolen One by Suzanne Crowley

The Stolen One by Suzanne Crowley

Crowley, Suzanne. The Stolen One. Greenwillow Books, 2009. 406 pages. $17.99. ISBN 0061232008

Readers Annotation: After the death of her adoptive mother, Kat and her deaf adoptive sister venture to London to find out the truth of her real parents. Along the way Kat learns the true meaning of love and the ways of the Virgin Queen’s court.

Plot Summary: Kat always knew she wasn’t her mother’s flesh and blood but never really gave it a second thought until a strange woman appeared, dying at their cottage door. After the woman’s death, and subsequent burial by the man who loves her, Kat starts to ask questions. With no answers, and more questions once her mother dies, she decides to go to London with her deaf sister to get the answers she desires. The mysterious Lady Ludmore takes in Kat and Anna and Kat is quickly among the queen’s favorites as the newest addition to her court. Her talents with the needle further her popularity and spur the interests of not just one suitor. Her mother’s prophecy of Kat’s abandonment of her sister prove more likely as her popularity with the queen progresses and her quest for information about her real parents seems to get her nowhere. Will she succeed in discovering the truth about her past?

Critical Evaluation: From the beginning of the book, Crowley captures the reader with plot twists that make the book hard to put down. The unusual circumstances of Kat and Anna seem too strange at first, but as the story progresses, and the reader catches glimpses into the past of Grace, it slowly makes sense. The Stolen One is a perfect addition to the speculative fiction about Queen Elizabeth and the whole mystery and tragedy of the aftermath of King Henry VIII. It seems fitting that this book would be suited towards young women between fourteen and eighteen, although Barnes and Noble suggests ages twelve and up. Twelve seems a bit too young for some of events to make sense, and to grasp the mentality of the Elizabethan age. Crowley presents what seems a well-researched piece regarding speculation surrounding the virgin queen.

Reading Level: Suitable for ages fourteen to eighteen due to the subject matter.

Book talk ideas: Read a passage from the book, I suggest the description of Queen Elizabeth’s collection of dresses and accessories. Discuss that fashion has always been a big part of culture, especially among the elite. Today, however, fashion seems to be more easily attainable. Give examples of other books that may be of interest, like A Sweet Disorder by Jacqueline Kolosov, or the Gossip Girl series that involves a fair amount of drama and fashion among the modern elite.

Why it is included: I chose this book because I wanted to compare novels set in Queen Elizabeth’s court. This novel is fairly new and has not been recognized in any lists or received any awards.

Challenge Issues: The treatment of characters with physical impairments may be an issue with some readers, however I would argue that the treatment of the characters reflects the mentality of the age. It is beneficial to understand how different people were treated to understand where we have come.

A Sweet Disorder by Jacqueline Kolosov

A Sweet Disorder by Jacqueline Kolosov

Kolosov, Jacqueline. A Sweet Disorder. Disney Hyperion Books, 2009. 418 pages. $16.99. ISBN 1423112458

Readers Annotation: After the death of her father, and a stint with the insufferable countess, Miranda arrives in Queen Elizabeth’s court and soon becomes a favored embroiderer.

Plot Summary: Sent to live with the somber countess of Turbery, the wife of her late father’s cousin, Miranda’s dreams of marrying the man she once loved are shattered. At Turbery, the beautiful embroidery Miranda is skilled in creating is looked down on, the days are spent reading of pious women, and the food is bland. It is soon discovered that the wishes of Miranda’s guardians are to see her married to a wealthy man of the court. The countess forces a horrid Seagram on Miranda, but soon she discovers what Seagram is truly like. While at court, Miranda’s talent with needle and thread are quickly noticed and soon after, Queen Elizabeth gives her the task of recreating her mother, Anne Boleyn’s coronation gown. The court is not without its scandals, and it seems that Miranda is at the heart of them. As everything seems to be going wrong in Miranda’s life, she is rewarded with one wish from the queen when she sees her completed gown. Miranda’s choice will change her life, and hopefully she’ll find the true love she’d hoped for.

Critical Evaluation: Another representation of the Virgin Queen’s life at court, A Sweet Disorder is an interesting tale for those who are interested in the drama of court. All the books I’ve read that take place in Elizabeth’s court involve much in the way of fashion, reflecting Elizabeth’s own passion. This book is one of the more believable stories, involving the real plight of being a woman who is given no say in her future. I was captivated by Miranda and how she would manage her life, despite all the grief she faced at the beginning. I thought the story followed what seems to be the framework for romantic historical fiction, something tragic spurs the main character to have to prove herself among the elite while catching the attention of many a suitor, but in the end allowing her to marry her true love and slip out of the monarch’s attention unharmed. I would recommend this to teens who enjoy teenage drama with an historic twist.

Reading Level: The reading and interest level of this book is best suited for high school age readers.

Book talk ideas: I would read the prologue because it reflects the issues for women in that era. I would talk about the importance of a sizable dowry in order to have a comfortable life and marriage in those days. I would also mention that, as in other books like The Stolen One, Queen Elizabeth placed much importance on fashion.

Why it is included: I chose this book because it was just released and found it similar to other books I chose for the project. I was interested in how it compared to books of a similar topic.

Challenge Ideas: I’m not sure what about this book would be controversial in all honesty.

Vacations from Hell by Libba Bray, et. al.

Vacations from Hell by Libba Bray, Holly Black, Cassandra Clare, Claudia Gray, Sarah Mlynowski
Bray, Libba, Casandra Clare, Claudia Gray, Maureen Johnson, and Sarah Mlynowski. Vacations from Hell. New York: Harper Teen, 2009. 280 pages. $16.99 ISBN 9780061688737

Readers Annotation: Be careful where you go on vacation.
Plot Summary: Each short story is about vacations that go wrong, paranormal wrong. The first story, Cruisin', is about vampires who go on vacation. Next is the witch filled tale, I Don't Like Your Girlfriend. The Law of Suspects involves two American sisters on vacation in France, murders and an infectious letter. The Mirror House is about a woman who steals the souls of men. Finally, Nowhere Is Safe is the story of recent graduates on a European vacation who decide to go to the Town of the Damned.
Critical Evaluation: Each of these authors have been sucessful in the young adult world. For a few of these authors, this compilation is not their first. In fact a couple of the authors have had their short stories included in other paranormal collections. These stories are short and sweet, if murder and the paranormal are your sweet.
Information about the Author: Libba Bray recently concluded her Gemma Doyle trilogy and will have a new novel, Bovine, out in September. Maureen Johnson is most famous for 13 Little Blue Envelopes, and has five other novels and one other short story in a collection. Cassandra Clare is the author of The Mortal Instruments series which includes City of Bones, City of Ashes and City of Glass. Claudia Gray has created the Evernight series featuring Bianca, a student at a Gothic boarding school. Sarah Mylnowski has a series of teen lit that involves witchery, and has also published several chick lit books for adults as well. Each of these authors lives in New York, New York.
Genre: Paranormal, Horror, Short Stories
Age Level: Ages 14 and up
Curriculum Ties: Use when discussing short stories, and discuss the variety of short story anthologies out there.
Book talking ideas: Read one of the stories. Discuss why writers write short stories as opposed to full length novels.
Challenge Issues: The horror and paranormal content may be of concern.
Why I included it: I included this book because it is one of the newest short story compilations by one or all of these authors. There is a group of young adult authors, most of whom live in New York City, that frequently collaborate on collections together. Also, I chose this collection because Libba Bray is one of my favorite authors.

The Fetch by Laura Whitcomb

The Fetch by Laura Whitcomb
Whitcomb, Laura. The Fetch. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2009. 380 pages. $17.00 ISBN 9780618891313

Readers Annotation: Calder, a Fetch with the charge of taking souls to the afterlife, breaks his vow with God and returns to earth in search of his Squire, a young woman.
Plot Summary: Calder is a Fetch. He safely takes souls from earth through the four stages necessary to get to heaven. He's always felt a little out of place in heaven, and in the Aisle of the stages, but hasn't ever questioned it. On one of his trips to earth to guide a soul he sees a beautiful woman, one he cannot get out of his head. He is so moved by her love for her infant son that he wills the baby to live. He is consumed by her, and much to his surprise he is taken again to the house of the woman, to retrieve the same boy. Still later he is sent to retrieve Grigori Rasputin and discovers that Rasputin knows the woman he has longed for. She is none other than the Empress of Russia. He decides to switch places with Rasputin, taking over his dead body while allowing Rasputin to roam in the Land of Lost Souls. Calder soon realizes he made a terrible mistake but is unable to go back to heaven with out his Squire, or Fetch in training. The woman he wanted as his Squire refuses to leave her family and instead Calder gives his Key to her son Alexis. Calder, mistaken for Rasputin, is murdered twice and finally wakes up to find the Tsar and his family on the verge of being executed. Calder finds Alexis and Ana still alive however and they set off in search of the Key and their way into heaven.
Critical Evaluation: The Fetch is a very interesting take on an issue we, as humans, can know very little: the afterlife. The idea that there are celestial beings that take human souls to heaven through a series of trials and tasks is thought provoking. Another aspect of the story that is quite interesting is the theory of what happened to Alexis and Anastasia after their family was assassinated. Whitcomb's alternate history of the brother and sister make for a very interesting read. The only issue I have is with her portrayal of time passing while on their journey basically around the world. It seems as if no time at all passes while they travel from Russia to Japan, to California, to New York and on to England. It doesn't seem believable, but then neither does a story about the afterlife.
Information about the Author: Laura has published two young adult books, The Fetch and A Certain Slant of Light. She has also published two books on how to write and publish novels.
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Age Level: Ages 14 and up
Curriculum Ties: An interesting inclusion into a unit on the Russian Revolution.
Book talking ideas: Discuss alternate histories and how they can try to explain events that seem unexplainable.
Challenge Issues: The portrayal of the afterlife may be an issue for some parents who have different belief systems.
Why I included it: I included this book because of the praise she received for A Certain Slant of Light. I also found the idea of the Fetchkind and the reason for Anastasia's disappearance very creative.

13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson

13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson

Johnson, Maureen. 13 Little Blue Envelopes. New York: Alloy Entertainment, 2005. 337 pages. $8.99 ISBN 0060541431

Readers Annotation: Ginny’s Aunt Peg leaves her a quest to accomplish after her sudden death that takes her on a wild ride through Europe.

Summary: After the sudden death of her Aunt Peg, Ginny receives a letter that contains one thousand dollars and instructions that she needs to go to the Chinese restaurant beneath her old apartment in the Lower East Side, New York City. The owner of 4th Noodle handed her a package containing 13 illustrated blue envelopes. Once she psyched herself up enough, and her parents, to go on a trip to Europe along, Ginny set foot on an adventure. On her first stop in London she meets Robert, an old roommate of her Aunt Peg’s and stays in her aunt’s old room. Her first task in the UK is to be a patron of the arts, and her path crosses with a young playwright named Keith. After a trip to Scotland to visit another eccentric artist like her aunt, Ginny and Keith part on bad terms. Ginny visits Paris, the city of love and cafes, and Amsterdam, where she meets an eccentric family that takes her on a whirlwind tour of the city. However, it doesn’t seem that her aunt’s instructions are turning out how she planned. Back in London, Ginny discovers who Robert really is, confronts Keith about how she really feels and finds her aunt’s hidden stash. Will this hidden collection give Ginny answers about her aunt’s illness and life before she died, or will it be just another hopeless clue?
Critical Evaluation: I expected Johnson to be just another one of those giddy writers of teen romance, but decided to put my prejudice aside and give 13 Little Blue Envelopes a try. I was soon sucked into Ginny’s quest and wanted her to succeed. Johnson balanced the confused romance and serious life changing experiences for a book that takes the reader through every emotion. Angry at Ginny’s stubbornness, excited with each new envelope, sad at her aunt’s deterioration, jealous of Ginny’s freedom and adventure, happy that she broke out of her shell. I would recommend this book to late high school girls to get them thinking about life after high school. It could open their eyes to another option. Few graduates seem to go backpacking through Europe fresh out of high school these days, but it is an experience that could change their lives for the better. While it wasn’t a very challenging read, it was though provoking.
Information about the Author: Maureen Johnson has written several young adult books including Suite Scarlett, Girl at Sea and Devilish. She has also contributed to two short story collections. Johnson lives in New York, New York.
Genre: Drama, Romance, Adventure
Age Level: 15 and up
Curriculum Ties: No curriculum ties
Book talking ideas: Discuss what it would be like to pick up and go off on a trip all alone with no idea of where you're going. Also discuss the lost art of letter writing.
Challenge Issues: No challenge issues.
Why I included it: I included this book because I found the idea of going on a trip without knowing where you're going is fascinating. Also I've heard good things about Maureen Johnson.

The Remarkable Life and Times of Eliza Rose by Mary Hooper

The Remarkable Life and Times of Eliza Rose by Mary Hooper

Hooper, Mary. The Remarkable Life and Times of Eliza Rose. Bloomsbury, 2006. 334 pages. $16.95. ISBN 1582348545

Readers Annotation: Eliza Rose goes to London to find her father after being disowned by her new step-mother only to find that he is not truly her father. In her search for her real parents, Eliza finds the excitement of the stage, friendship and love.

Plot Summary: Eliza Rose always thought her family loved her, until her new stepmother throws her out of the house. Desperate to find her father so he can make her stepmother take her back, Eliza journeys to London where he has taken work after the great fire. Eliza is imprisoned for stealing food, but is eventually freed by Ma Gwynn who ends up using her for her own gains. During the yearly fair, Eliza is dressed as a mermaid and forced to sing her the paying customers of the fair. One customer is so infatuated by the mermaid he offers to pay Ma Gwynn to have her for the night. To prevent Eliza being sold in such a manner, one of Ma’s daughters, Nell, takes her away to be her maid. Nell is an actress and is quickly becoming one of the favorites of the king. After working with Nell as her maid, and in the theatre, Eliza comes to love the excitement of the London theatre and falls for a fine gentleman named Valentine. Finally she finds her father, but all does not end up as she’d hoped. In order to find her true family, she meets an astrologer who tells her she is high born. If only such a thing were true, then she could find her family and marry the man she desires.

Critical Evaluation: Although I did enjoy this book and often couldn’t put it down, I thought it was a bit too light and happy go lucky despite the bad situations Eliza is put into. Eliza’s character, while supposed to be coming into her own as a young woman, seemed much to naïve, or even flighty. For someone looking for a book about a strong young woman following their dreams, this wouldn’t be quite what they were looking for. As for Nell, the idea of being perfectly happy being one of many mistresses of the king and producing a “bastard” child doesn’t seem to be the greatest example to be giving either. That being said, this is a period piece and reflects the mentality of the age. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this book for a great historical piece, but would recommend it for a semi-lighthearted happy-ending romance. With all the talk of mistresses, sexual encounters, and lewd language I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone under fourteen.

Reading Level: The reading level of this book better suits ages 14 and up, but the interest level would be that of an older teen.

Book talk ideas: Read the passage where Eliza is describing the situation with her stepmother and her banishment from the house. I would discuss the similarities of this book to Cinderella. Fairy tales like Cinderella aren’t just for children, as this book has the same elements of the fairy tale but with more mature subject matter.

Why it is included: I chose this book because I wanted a comparison to Hooper’s other book Newes from the Dead. It was on two best books lists, one in 2005 and the other in 2006.

Challenge Issues: There is much discussion in the novel about being mistresses, having pre-marital sex and having illegitimate children. I can see that this would be a problem for most parents. I would argue that women at the time would find it an honor to be thus courted by the king. I would also argue that it is up to the parent to restrict what their children read.

S. Darko directed by Chris Fisher

S. Darko directed by Chris
Fisher, Chris. S. Darko. Perfs. Daveigh Chase, Briana Evigan, Jackson Rathbone, and Ed Westwick. Beverly Hills, CA: 20th Century Fox, 2009. 103 minutes. $14.99 UPC 024543575184
Readers Annotation: Seven years after the death of her brother, Donnie, Sam is haunted by his same visions.
Plot Summary: Seven years after the death of her brother, Donnie, Sam (Daveigh Chase) travels across the country with her friend Corey (Briana Evigan) in search of answers. Instead she finds people who are haunted by the same visions as her brother. Sam becomes involved in the drama of the small town she and Corey stop in, and captures the interest of two of the local boys (Jackson Rathbone and Ed Westwick). There seems to be something dark taking hold of the small town, especially after a meteor strikes nearby. The young town war veteran keeps to himself and his visions, but he towns people think he is responsible for the disappearances of two boys. Sam soon uncovers the mystery, and ends up dying just as she figures it out. Or does she?
Critical Evaluation: For fans of the cult classic Donnie Darko, this film may disappoint. It seems that its purpose is to follow Sam as she tries to find herself despite her grief, but it gets lost in the random events of the small town. There are so many Sam as ghost visions and points where they go back in time, that is tends to get a little confusing. What is that awful rash and where was the meteor from? How did the Iraqi veteran come to the town and how ironic is it that his mother wrote the infamous book that cause Donnie's insanity? Why did it take them so long to make a sequel? Maybe these things don't really matter when all a viewer wants is some shock, gore and twist endings.
Genre: Horror, Drama
Age Level: Ages 13 and up, however some of the imagery would not be suitable for younger teens
Curriculum Ties: No curriculum ties.
Book talking ideas: No book talking ideas.
Challenge Issues: The graphic imagery would be a concern for parents of younger teens.
Why I included it: I included S. Darko because I am a fan of Donnie Darko and was excited by the idea of a sequel. I'm still not sure if I liked it or not.

Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
Meyer, Stephenie. Breaking Dawn. New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2008. 754 pages. $22.99 ISBN 031606792x
Readers Annotation: Finally, the wedding of the century has arrived, but Bella's mortality is still a concern.
Plot Summary: The final book in the Twilight Saga wraps up all the lose ends from the previous three books. Finally, Bella and Edward get married in a small and sweet ceremony in Edward's back yard. The two whisk away to their own island where they have lots of romantic encounters. After a few weeks, however, Bella starts to get sick and soon realizes that she is pregnant. Edward, horrified at how stupid they were, rushes Bella home where she endures a very short, very difficult pregnancy. Secrets are revealed, attachments made, promises kept and half-vampire children are born.
Critical Evaluation: Although this isn't my favorite book out of the series, it is definitely number two on my list. For the hopeless romantic there is plenty of almost sex scenes, sexual vampire humor, cute little cottages and strange baby names. For the adventure seeker, there are plenty of battles, and of course the werewolves are involved. What I loved about this book is how Stephenie continues to mold her characters, Bella in particular. Throughout the series Bella ages about three years or so, and this is most apparent in Breaking Dawn. She learns she must be an adult, a married woman and a potential mother. She essentially steps up to the plate in this novel. There was some discussion after the book came out that many readers were disappointed in Stephenie's complete change of Bella's character, however I felt that Bella needed to change. After dating a vampire for two or three years off and on and being in the middle of a centuries old feud between two paranormal beings she never new existed, she must change and grow. She had to mature. Stephenie does a great job of tying up the loose ends of the previous novels and giving her readers a happy, albeit strange ending.
Information about the Author: Stephenie Meyer lives in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband and three sons. The Twilight series is her first series for young adults. In the midst of her Twilight saga she also published an adult science fiction novel called The Host.
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Romance
Age Level: Ages 14 and up
Curriculum Ties: A possible tie in to folklore of all cultures, as they discuss vampire folklore of Native American, European and South American cultures in the series.
Book talking ideas: Discuss the intrigue of the series. Why does it capture your attention, if it does? How would you react if you found out someone you know was a vampire or a werewolf?
Challenge Issues: The sex scenes, although they are not really sex scenes, may cause problems for those who don't want their children exposed to anything sexual in nature. The birth scene is very graphic as well, which may be too graphic for some parents' liking.
Why I included it: I chose this book because I love the series. Since Stephenie is a Phoenix local (as I was), when Twilight first came out I was all over it. I've always been fascinated with vampire lore and how different authors create new ways vampires live. Also, the Twilight series is very big among teens and adults alike and it would not be a smart move to forget it.

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith

Grahame-Smith, Seth and Jane Austen. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. Philadelphia: Quirk Books, 2009. 319 pages. $12.95 ISBN 978594743344

Readers Annotation: The world of the Bennett sisters has gone to the undead!
Plot Summary: All seems well in the village of Meryton, except for the fact that villagers continue to become zombies. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies follows the Bennett sisters in their quest for love and the defeat of the invading zombies.
Critical Evaluation: At first I was disgusted with the idea of altering an Austen classic in such a manner. However, after reading the adaptation and seeing the illustrations that accompany the text, I decided otherwise. What a clever way of getting people to read the classics. Although, their not really reading the true classic. It is, however, an interesting alternative to what some may call boring regency satire.
Information about the Author: Jane Austen wrote several successful novels that reflect her views on social life during her time. Seth Grahame-Smith has written How to Survive a Horror Movie, Pardon My President and The Big Book of Porn.
Genre: Horror, Parody
Age Level: Ages 15 and up
Curriculum Ties: An alternative when reading classics like Austen's Pride and Prejudice.
Book talking ideas: Discuss whether Grahame-Smith was wrong in his adaptation of Pride and Prejudice or if his undead recreation was worth the read. Also discuss the sudden fascination of zombies, vampires and the paranormal and how that has affected the literary world.
Challenge Issues: The fact that Graham-Smith took a perfectly good harmless classic and turned it into a bloodbath make cause some parents to wonder at the sanity of the author and the librarian who includes it in their collection. However, I feel that it is an interesting parody of a great novel and a great example of how you can change a few words and it changes the whole meaning of the story.
Why I included it: I included this novel because zombies, vampires and the paranormal are very popular right now. I am also a big fan of Austen and found this parody very amusing, albeit graphic and just wrong.

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Austen, Jane. Northanger Abbey. Signet Classic, 1996. 240 pages. $4.95. ISBN 0451526368

Readers Annotation: A nineteenth century classic, the gothic parody follows Catherine Morland as she transitions from her quiet life in provincial England, to the city of Bath and beyond into a world of suitors, frivolity, and mystery.

Plot Summary: At the age of seventeen, Catherine Morland is taken on her first trip to Bath with the affluent Mr. and Mrs. Allen. Mrs. Allen successfully introduces Catherine to the fashionable party scene of England’s eighteenth century elite. After meeting handsome Mr. Tilney, flighty Miss Isabella Thorpe, and her over-zealous brother John, Catherine soon sees who she can trust and who just wants to advance in the ranks. She’s invited to Northanger Abbey, the hauntingly mysterious home of Mr. Tilney. She lets her imagination get the best of her, and after some great misunderstandings is sent away from the abbey. Will Catherine make up with her dear Mr. Tilney, or will the horrors of Northanger be to great?

Critical Evaluation: Northanger Abbey may seem like any of Austen’s romances, but her take on the Gothic movement proves to be exciting and often times hilarious. As with any classic novel, the language may prove difficult to master, but once the reader is submersed in the story the eloquent language becomes second nature. It seems that Northanger Abbey is one of Austen’s least popular novels, but shouldn’t be pushed aside. It is an interesting side to her writing, mixing gothic, satire and romance. Today’s teenage girls, if they don’t already enjoy period pieces, will be able to identify with Catherine as she deals with multiple suitors, an over active imagination, and finding love.

Reading Level: Due to the nature of Austen’s writing, mainly the vocabulary used, the reading level for Northanger Abbey should be fifteen or sixteen and up. It is marketed as adult fiction, but since the main character is seventeen, and is essentially a coming of age novel, I felt that it suited the fifteen to eighteen range.

Book talk ideas: Read a passage from the book, such as a description of one of the parties Catherine attends in Bath. Compare this with the nature of parties today. How different are they really? People dance, gossip, drink and eat, and there is always flirtatious behavior. Other books to read that compare would be Austen’s other novels.

Why it is included: I chose this book, again, because the main character is a teenager herself. The fact that the novel was written during the era it takes place ensures the accuracy of the historical details as well. Many teenage girls read Austen’s novels, but I seldom hear Northanger Abbey discussed. It seems to be often bypassed for her more popular works like Pride and Prejudice, which is why I thought to include it.

Challenge Ideas: There are no challenge issues.

A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray

A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
Bray, Libba. A Great and Terrible Beauty. New York: Delacorte Press, 2003. 403 pages. $16.95 ISBN 0385730284
Readers Annotation: After the death of her mother on her 16th birthday, Gemma Doyle learns that she has magical powers and that her mother is not who she thought she was.
Plot Summary: Gemma Doyle grew up in India, although she always wanted to live in England like her parents did when they grew up. On her 16th birthday, Gemma begged her mother to let her go to school in England, but her mother forbade it. After running away in a fit of rage Gemma has a vision of her mother being murdered. She searches the city for her mother and eventually finds her exactly where she saw her in her vision, and she is dead. Gemma discovers that it was her mother's wish for her to go to school in England if anything should happen to her, so she is sent away to Spence Academy for Girls. While at Spence, Gemma makes friends with the popular Felicity and her sidekick Pippa, as well as the shy, future governess Ann. After a few art lessons with Miss Moore and impromtu history lessons of the warrior women who used to gather on the grounds, Gemma realizes that she must be part of the ancient order. She continues to have visions, and is visited in flesh and blood by Kartik, an Indian whose brother died in the attempt to protect Gemma's mother. Although warned not to use her growing powers, Gemma gives in to temptation and takes her friends with her into the Realms. In the Realms they can do anything they imagine, but it is only Gemma whose power flourish even out of the Realms. Gemma is forced to decide the fate of the realms, and essentially the fate of her friends.
Critical Evaluation: A Great and Terrible Beauty is an excellent fantasy with the perfect amount of adventure, magic and romance. The writing is particularly elloquent and seems to transport the reader back into Victorian England. Bray does a fantastic job describing the emotions and feelings of Gemma with the loss of her mother, the drug abuse of her father, her mixed feelings for Kartik and the uncertainty of the magic she holds. Bray also presents teen girls with an empowering female character who may have special powers, but must deal with growing up like any teenage girl.
Information about the Author: Libba Bray completed the Gemma Doyle trilogy and is soon coming out with her new young adult novel, Bovine. She lives in Brooklyn, New York with her husband and their son.
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance.
Age Level: Ages 14 and up
Curriculum Ties: Can be included in a unit that discusses folklore or that of Victorian England.
Book talking ideas: Discuss what it would be like to have magical powers and be able to enter into other realms. Are the issues Gemma deals with in Victorian England that different than what teenage girls deal with today?
Challenge Issues: The ideas of magic may be a concern for some parents.
Why I included it: I included this book because Libba Bray is one of my favorite authors. The Gemma Doyle series has a big online following as well.

A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly

A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly

Donnelly, Jennifer. A Northern Light. Harcourt, Inc., 2003. 396 pages. $8.95. ISBN 0152053109

Readers Annotation: In an attempt to forge her own life and dreams, Mattie takes up residence in an inn only to be engrossed in the mystery of a murder.

Plot Summary: The recent high-school graduate Mattie loves to write and has hopes of going to college in New York City. At her mother’s deathbed, however, Mattie promises to take care of her family. In order to help raise money for the family she takes a job at a resort in the Adirondack Mountains where she becomes involved in the mysterious death of Grace Brown. Before taking a boat on the lake with her fiancé, Grace gives Mattie a packet of love letters and asks her turn burn them. When Grace turns up drowned in the lake, Mattie decides to read the letters and soon realizes that her death was no accident. In the midst of the murder mystery, Mattie tries to follow her dreams, but is greatly crestfallen when her father forbids her to take a much-earned scholarship. As the story unfolds Mattie must decide whether she will follow her dreams or live the life her family expects of her.

Critical Evaluation: This award-winning novel certainly lives up to its hype. Donnelly creates a character that seems a reflection of the author, a lover of words. At the beginning of each chapter Mattie learns about a new word, and so does the reader. The difficulties Mattie faces with her family and her future are those that a teen today may end up facing, which makes this book suitable for teens fifteen and up. Her desire to pursue her dreams is not unlike many teens today, and not all teens have the opportunity to take a deserved scholarship. Donnelly’s portrayal of a real murder case and the plight of young women at the turn of the century make this book a great choice for historical fiction of this period.

Reading Level: Suitable for ages fifteen and up, although younger teens with a higher reading level would enjoy it as well.

Book talk ideas: The opening chapter would be a great selection to read. Discuss the value of words and the idea that a great writer is also a great reader. Due to the subject matter (murder) and time period (turn of the century) I would also suggest Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes books, especially for boys, but also The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath for those interested in characters who writer but have difficulties attaining their goals.

Why it is included: I chose this book because of the many awards and nominations it has received, including the many “Best Book” lists it is on. In 2004 it won the Michael L. Printz award.

Challenge Issues: The aspects of the novel that may seem controversial include the murder of a young woman and possibly the fact that the female teacher Mattie looks up to smokes. As with all historical fiction I would be ready to argue that these are a reflection of not only the true story of Grace Brown, but also the time in which it takes place.

Style Remix DVD

Style Remix DVD
Style Remix: 21+ Fashion Projects. Little Rock, AR: Leisure Arts, Inc., 2007. 100 minutes. $19.95 ISBN 1601405618
Readers Annotation: More than 21 projects to revamp your wardrobe and create your own style.
Plot Summary/Critical Evaluation: Style Remix is an instructional DVD that includes projects of all kinds to create a unique wardrobe using what you already have. The hosts are friendly and informative and give great directions. The projects give great examples of what can be done but also give tips on how they can be changed and personalized. The projects are fun and up-to-date, no out-dated early 90s scrunchies here! There are ideas for purses, skirts, and many other fashion pieces.
Genre: Arts and Crafts, Fashion
Age Level: Ages 12 and up
Curriculum Ties: Could be used in a home economics class for extra instruction on crafts and sewing.
Book talking ideas: Talk about the many ways they can express themselves. Fashion is one way to express yourself that everyone will see and can be changed everyday. A great way to personalize your fashion and express yourself is by altering what you have and creative something totally new.
Challenge Issues: No challenge issues.
Why I included it: I included this instructional DVD because there seems to be a big DIY movement through teens and 20s. There are many websites the give tips and patterns on DIY projects, and a DVD is a great addition to any arts and crafts collection.

The Minister's Daughter by Julie Hearn

The Minister's Daughter by Julie Hearn

Hearn, Julie. The Minister’s Daughter. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2005. 263 pages. $17.99. ISBN 0689876904

Readers Annotation: After frolicking with a boy in the village, the minister’s daughter finds herself with child. She cons her sister into helping her blame the cunning woman’s granddaughter Nell of witchcraft.

Plot Summary: Grace and Patience are seen as the well-behaved daughters of the new town minister. No one but Patience knows of her sister’s frolicking with Sam, a boy in the village. Soon, Grace finds herself with child and realizes that Sam will never be honorable and marry her. She must get rid of the child, so she goes to the village cunning woman. Nell knows her grandmother’s mind slowly slipping away, even more so when she gives the wrong ingredients to a man in need of a purge. When Grace comes looking for a way to rid herself of her child, Nell turns her away when she learns the child is a sacred Merrybegot. To get her revenge for Nell’s refusal to help, she cons her sister into helping her make quite a scene. They scream, thrash, spit pins and remain bedridden all in the name of Satan and his helper, Nell. Going back and forth between Nell’s narrative, and Patience’s confession many years later, the reader learns both sides of the story when the sisters accuse Nell of witchcraft.

Critical Evaluation: The first time I read this book I listened to the audio book. Maybe it was the way the narrator read and the voices she gave to the characters, but I didn’t like it. I decided to give it a second chance for this project however. Reading it again I decided it was an excellent reflection of what a cunning woman’s trade is like, and the risks involved. I was not expecting the fae to be mixed into a period piece about witchcraft, but for some reason it didn’t seem to take away from the reality of the story. After thinking about Nell’s point of view, I realized she would have fully believed in faeries, and would have many beliefs that Christians of the time would have taken as superstitions. The ignorance of the minister’s daughters was frustrating in contrast to the simplicity and happiness of Nell’s life despite her grandmothers deteriorating mind, at least before their accusations began. I appreciated Hearn’s attempt to bring light to the other side of the witch trials. She attempted to give a voice to those who did live as Nell and her grandmother, and the reality of the Christian influence of the time forcing Pagans to practice their beliefs in secret, often times forcing them to abandon it altogether.

Reading Level: This book, due to the subject matter, best suits high school age readers although the reading level would suit that of a middle school reader.

Book talk ideas: I would read a selection of the book; one of the girls’ “episodes” would reflect the book well. I would discuss that many of the women accused of being witches were falsely accused. I would suggest Newes from the Dead to as an alternative.

Challenge Issues: The portrayal of the cunning woman and her granddaughter, as well as other pagans, could cause some people to take issue with the book. In response to this I would argue that these were beliefs of people not only at the time the book takes place, but also in modern times. It is unfair to exclude such beliefs just because one religion disagrees.