Grind directed by Casey La Scala

La Scala, Casey. Grind. Perfs. Mike Vogel, Vince Vieluf, Adam Brody, Joey Kern and Jennifer Morrison. Burbank, CA: Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, 2003. 105 minutes. $9.99 ISBN 0790778270

Readers Annotation: After graduation, college and the working world are farthest from these skaters minds.
Plot Summary: Most high school graduates are busy figuring out what college to go to or out applying for a job, but for Eric Rivers (Mike Vogel) that's not on his agenda. What he wants to do is skate, and make it big. Eric and his friend Matt (Vince Lieluf) decide to kidnap hard working Dustin (Adam Brody) on a road trip from Chicago to Santa Monica. They pick up the smooth talking Sweet Lou (Joey Kern) along the way and his decked out van that includes a removable skate ramp. They head through a couple small towns, taking on young teenage skaters, picking up hot girls, and getting their van stolen. The quartet attempt to enter into any skate competitions they can and force their way onto the great Jimmy Wilson's tour band to leave a tape of their skate tricks. Eric falls for cute Jamie (Jennifer Morrison), who ends up being a phenomenal skater. The boys, with help from Matt's circus family, finally make it to the big competition in Santa Monica, but the question is, will they be able to enter and win?
Critical Evaluation: Grind isn't an award winning movie, but definitely has some memorable moments. Six years after I first saw this movie, at 18, I still quote some of the funnier lines. As far as post-graduation adventure movies go, this one is on the more believable side. They encounter problem after problem, including getting their van and all their gear stolen, but yet they keep on going. I suppose there are many teenage boys out there wishing the same thing, to be signed by some skate company and make mad cash skating everyday. What this movie is all about, however, is gross humor, meeting girls, and skating your heart out, and it surely accomplishes this.
Information about the Author: Mike Vogel went on to star in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Poseidon and Cloverfield. After being in several tv shows, most famously being The OC, Adam Brody has starred in several more feature films including Mr. & Mrs. Smith, In the Land of Women, Thank You for Smoking and will be in the comedy horror Jennifer's Body in September. Jennifer Morrison also starred in Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Star Trek and has been Dr. Allison Cameron on House, MD. Casey La Scala was executive producer for teen greats like A Walk to Remember, Donnie Darko, and What a Girl Wants.
Genre: Comedy, Sports-themed
Age Level: PG-13, crude humor
Curriculum Ties: No curriculum ties.
Book talking ideas: Talk about the benefits of a good laugh and the skills involved in skateboarding.
Challenge Issues: The crude humor might be an issue for some parents.
Why I included it: I included Grind because its a good all around teen movie, and one of my favorites from my teen years. As someone who always wished she could skate, watching other people skate is just as good.

She's the Man directed by Andy Fickman

She's the Man directed by Andy Fickman
Fickman, Andy. She's the Man. Perfs. Amanda Bynes, Channing Tatum, Laura Ramsey, and Vinnie Jones. Universal City, CA: DreamWorks, 2006. 105 minutes. $14.99 ISBN 1415723680
Readers Annotation: After her school's girl soccer team is cut, Viola decides to pose as her brother in order to play for his private school boys team.
Plot Summary: Viola's (Amanda Bynes) love in life is soccer. She lives and breathes soccer, much to her mother's (Julie Hagerty) dismay who insists on turner her tomboy daughter into a beautiful debutant. When her brother Sebastian (James Kirk) on a secret tour in London with his band, Viola takes her only chance at playing soccer. She enlists the help of her best friends Yvonne (Jessica Lucas), Kia (Amanda Crew) and Paul (Jonathan Sadowski) to help her transform into her brother. Viola arrives at school, paranoid that everyone will see through her disguise. Her roommate Duke (Channing Tatum) is also a soccer player and the two form a friendship, Duke helping Viola with her soccer skills and Viola helping Duke get the girl. Soon Violet realizes the she has feelings for Duke but will never be able to express them as her brother. Meanwhile, "the girl," Olivia (Laura Ramsey) falls for Viola as Sebastian and real-Sebastian's ex-girlfriend tries to find out why he dumped her. A tangled-love triangle ensues, with everyone left to "Duke" it out in the end.
Critical Evaluation: She's the Man is another modern interpretation of William Shakespeare, using Twelth Night, or What You Will as it's basis. The result is a creative film that will engage today's teens, giving them a way to relate to Shakespeare. Dealing with the drama of high school and the action of sports, instead of the world of dukes, countesses and sword play. The movie takes everything, including the name of the school, directly from Shakespeare. Viola and Sebastian are the twins, Olivia is a popular high school cheerleader instead of a countess, Duke Orsino is the popular soccer star of Illyria instead of Orsino, Duke of Illyria, and the antagonist has the name Malcom instead of outdated Malvolio. Overall the film is a successful representation of Shakespeare, and a cute romantic comedy.
Information about the Author: Amanda Bynes comes from Nickelodean fame, appearing the shows All That and The Amanda Show, and starred alongside Jennie Garth in What I Like About You. Amanda has been in several romantic teen comedies including What a Girl Wants and the Snow White inspired Sydney White. Channing Tatum went on to star in Step Up, Fighting and G. I. Joe: Rise of the Cobra. Before becoming an actor in high action films like Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch, Vinnie Jones was a British soccer star.
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Age Level: PG-13
Curriculum Ties: When discussing Shakespeare
Book talking ideas:
Challenge Issues: The only challenge that may arise from this movie occurs toward the end. Both Viola and Sebastian flash the football fans, proving their femininity and masculinity. While nothing is seen on camera, what they are showing is implied.
Why I included it: I included this movie because it is one of my favorites. I love Shakespeare adaptations and this one is at the top of my list. Amanada Bynes is hilarious. I would have added all of her movies if I could.

10 Things I Hate About You by Gil Junger

Junger, Gil (Director). 10 Things I Hate About You. Perfs. Julia Stiles, Heath Ledger, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Larisa Oleynik. Burbank, CA: Touchstone Pictures, 1999. 97 minutes. $14.99 ISBN 0788817795
Readers Annotation: Two sisters who couldn't be more opposite find love and friendship in high school.
Plot Summary: Bianca is the cute and popular younger sister of Kat, the rebel outcast. Cameron, the new guy in town, falls hard for Bianca and enlists the help of Patrick to take out Kat in order to date Bianca. Needless to say, Pat and Kat have a love/hate relationship while Cameron is just the friend to Bianca, whose eyes are set on Joey. After shelling out lots of money, and a few punches, Bianca realizes who she really loves, and Kat breaks through her tough exterior.
Critical Evaluation: 10 Things I Hate About You is a great modern day high school retelling of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. Bianca, Katherina and Patrick "Verona" are the only names that come directly from Shakespeare. Although it has been a while since I read The Taming of the Shrew, it would seem that it is loosely based on the play. The film will speak to teens though in a way Shakespeare cannot. The high school drama, feelings of being unnoticed, prom, raging hormones, these are the things teenager can identify with. The film doesn't ignore its roots, however. Their English teacher spouts sonnets as if they are raps, and Kat's best friend is obsessed with Shakespeare. Overall, this is a great adaptation of classic literature.
Information about the Author: Julia Stiles went on to star in O, another Shakespeare adaptation, based on Othello. She has also been in several romantic comedies, and also the Bourne trilogy. Heath Ledger, who passed away last year at 28, was in several successful movies including Brokeback Mountain, I'm Not There and Dark Knight. The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus comes out later this year.
Genre:
Age Level: PG-13
Curriculum Ties: Great for comparing modern Shakespeare adaptations. Show clips of the movie in reference to parts of the play.
Book talking ideas: Talk to them about Shakespeare and how Shakespeare influences much of modern entertainment.
Challenge Issues: I was 14 when this movie first came out, and as much as I wanted to see it, my parents wouldn't let me. Once I told them it was based on Shakespeare, however, my mom and I ended up watching it together. Now it's one of our favorites. Some of the themes in the movie, like Cameron's friend Michael's obsession with sex, Patrick's comments about beer flavored nipples, and Joey drawing a penis on Michael's face, definitely wouldn't be OK with a lot of parents. Like my parents, maybe if they're informed of what the film is based on, they could change their mind. Although some parents just don't want their children to see films with a lot of sexual references in them.
Why I included it: I included this movie because it has been one of my favorites since I was in my early teens. Even those in their early teens now quote the movie, and it has just been turned into an ABC Family TV show. There can never be too many Shakespeare adaptations.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince for Wii

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince for Wii
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Electronic Arts: 2009. $49.99 SKU
Readers Annotation: Become a witch or wizard while playing Wii by flying a broomstick, dueling with wands, and making potions.
Plot Summary: This Wii game follows both the book and movie, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, taking aspects from both. Players are able to start at the beginning, following Harry and his friends as they roam around the castle, take classes, and learn magic at Hogwarts. If following the story isn't your thing, then duel a friend with magic wands, or play quidditch on a broom. This game will give hours of enjoyment as you play your way through Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
Critical Evaluation: This Wii game is a step up from the last Harry Potter Wii game based on The Order of the Phoenix. This game allows for up to two players, unlike the previous one which only allowed one player at a time. Although only one player can play the story aspects of the game, two can be part of the Gryffindor Dueling Club. Players can also play quidditch and make potions, which is another step up from the previous game. If only there was a Wii version of the Quidditch World Cup game from a few years ago. Suggested for ages ten and up, teens will really get into the action of the game and the exitement of pretending to fly a broom or hold a wand. I found the game to be much more interesting than the previous Wii game, and a lot more user friendly. The spellwork isn't as complicated as before, and the instructions are easier to follow. Dueling was a blast, literally.
Information about the Author: EA is one of the leading makers of video games, including Madden and all of the other professional sports games, as well as Sims and the new EA Sports Active.
Genre: Action & Adventure, Fantasy
Age Level: Everyone, ages 10 and up
Curriculum Ties: No curriculum ties.
Book talking ideas: Get a Harry Potter discussion going. Discuss how using Harry Potter types magic would make things different.
Challenge Issues: The fact that players are emulating spell work and potion making, essentially wielding magical powers, may make some parents uncomfortable.
Why I included it: How could I not include something Harry Potter? Harry Potter seems to be an intergenerational series, with many teens getting so into the books that they dress up for movie and book releases, and are the same Harry Potter character every year for Halloween (including yours truly). How fun would it be to pretend to be Harry and his friends and battle Lord Voldemort while wielding the Wii remote as a wand?

Tinted Windows, self titled album

Tinted Windows, a self titled album
Carlos, Bun E., Taylor Hanson, James Iha, and Adam Schlesinger. Tinted Windows. New York: S-Curve, 2009. 36 minutes $9.99 ISBN 9786312860006

Readers Annotation: Newest rock'n'roll super-group spans multiple generations.
Critical Evaluation: The new self-titled album by the super-group Tinted Windows is not what fans of the members' previous bands expected. Comprising of Cheap Trick's Bun E. Carlos on the drums, Hanson's Taylor Hanson on vocals, Smashing Pumpkins' James Iha on guitar and Fountains of Wayne's Adam Schlesinger on bass, the result is something more early Cheap Trick than anything else. The pop-rock songs are all upbeat and speak on love, love and more love. Their style reminds me of the pop-rock bands of the 70s and early 80s, like The Knack, Buzzcocks and Elvis Costello.
Information about the Author: Each of the band members have had a great deal of success with their other bands, but decided to come together for something new. Cheap Trick has a new album out, and is currently on tour. Smashing Pumpkins went on a 20th anniversary tour last year, with their latest full-length album released in 2007. Hanson will be embarking on a US tour in the fall. Fountains of Wayne is performing a few acoustic shows in the fall.
Genre: Rock, Pop
Age Level: All Ages
Curriculum Ties: History of Music
Book talking ideas: Have them listen to samples from Cheap Trick, Hanson, Smashing Pumpkins and Fountains of Wayne, then compare this to Tinted Windows.
Challenge Issues: No challenge issues.
Why I included it: As a big fan of all bands represented, I was very excited when I heard Taylor Hanson, Bun E. Carlos and James Iha were collaborating. Honestly, the only thing I'd heard up till recently by Fountains of Wayne was "Stacy's Mom," but that isn't a good reflection of their work. I have always loved when talented musicians get together outside of their normal jamming buddies. The result is usually something different, and fantastic. I hope that teens will hear bands like this and become interested in the members' other achievements, especially with those like legendary Bun E. Carlos and the often overlooked Taylor Hanson.

Penelope directed by Mark Palansky

Palansky, Mark (Director). Penelope. Perfs. Christina Ricci, James McAvoy, Catherine O'Hara, and Reese Witherspoon. Universal City, CA: Summit Entertainment, 2008. 90 minutes. $19.99 UPC 025195037952

Viewers Annotation: Penelope is like any other girl, except that she was born with a pig snout for a nose. All she wants is to break her curse, and hopefully find true love.
Plot Summary: After a curse falls on the Wilhelm family, Penelope's parents end up the only Wilhelms to have a daughter. Because of the old family curse, Penelope is born with a pig snout for a nose. Fearing the humiliation it would bring their daughter, and themselves, they hide her in their mansion during her childhood. When she is a teenager they begin to find suitors for Penelope in hopes of breaking her curse. Once they glimpse Penelope, however, they run away leaving Penelope with out hope. One day a young man named Max comes to meet the infamous Penelope, under the influence of an aristocrat and a reporter, and is not scared away by her pig nose. When Max eventually breaks her heart like the rest, Penelope sets out on her own and ends up finding herself. She makes true friends along the way and soon realizes that she must love herself before she can hope to break the curse.
Critical Evaluation: This film is a clever modern day fairy tale. The quirky characters and dialogue keep the viewer interested in what happens to Penelope. The appearance of many established actors make this a great film, however the soundtrack and costume design create the whimsical fairy tale. It truly is Beauty and the Beast for the modern day. Although this is a PG film, and very family friendly, it will appeal to any hopeless romantic. At the heart of the story is the ability to love one's self, even when no one else seems to, which is a lesson all teenagers should take to heart. definite must watch for a light hearted distraction.
Information about the Director and Actors: Mark Palansky
Genre: Fairy Tale
Age Level: PG, All ages
Curriculum Ties: Discuss fairy tales and the use of old fairy tales to convey modern situations. Also discuss the differences of movies from their books. Compare selections from the book to the movie.
Book talking ideas: Talk about the book and the benefits of reading the book before watching a movie based on it. Read a chapter of the book and play that scene from the movie.
Challenge Issues: No challenge issues.
Why I included it: I included Penelope because there are so many raunchy romances out there, often pushing cute light-hearted romances to the wayside. With so many great actors like James McAvoy, Reese Witherspoon, Catherine O'Hara, Christina Ricci, Peter Dinklage and a minor appearance by Russell Brand, it is a great film that was overlooked in theatres. For the hopeless romantics, Penelope is an essential film.

Madame Xanadu: Disenchanted by Matt Wagner and Amy Reeder Hadley

Wagner, Matt and Hadley, Amy Reeder. Madame Xanadu: Disenchanted. New York: Vertigo/DC Comics, 2009. 240 pages. $12.99 ISBN 9781401222918

Readers Annotation: Over the centuries, Madame Xanadu has used magic, divination and spirit to influence great world events. However, her frustration with "The Stranger" causes her to allow great evil to enter the world.
Plot Summary: From before the time of ancient Druids in Britain, Nimue has used her magical divinations to guide her on her path of imortality. Her first encounter with "The Stranger" causes her to ensnare her beloved Merlin, fleeing, a wanderer over the centuries. She is welcomed in Khubla Khan's Asia as a revered seer, and renames herself Madame Xanadu. Here "The Stranger" enlists her help and that of Marco Polo to prevent bad relations between East and West. She then flees to France during La Revolution, but it seems that her divinations come too late. She makes a pact with Death to keep her on earth to be of help to humanity. She later finds herself in Victorian England and 20th century New York City. Each place she travels, she finds herself face to face with the ellusive "Stranger" who infuriates her more and more each meeting. Although both of their intentions are "pure" they find themselves unable to work together to save humanity. In the end, her actions will lead to the creation of a great evil.
Critical Evaluation: Madame Xanadu creatively incorporates magic, divination and history to tell a piece meal story of world history. Not so much an alternate history as it is a suggestion of outside influences that cause history to happen. The illustrations are fantastic, and Madame Xanadu's costumes, while always green when doing something magical, reflect the costumes of the era she is in. It is interesting how the authors combine fantasy with real history to explain the influence magic had in certain events. Although a bit graphic at times in the gore and mild sexuality, it is nothing when compared to movies being made with real graphic imagery. Madame's speech is eloquent, and while she does use magic to influence events she uses her own strength, determination and power to get things done. She portrays a woman who steadfastly hopes to keep the world in balance and bring as little harm as possible. Not necessarily a good role model, but the kind of empowering character teens could use.
Information about the Author: Matt Wagner is most famously known for his work on Grendel, Sandman Mystery Theater and his creation of Mage. Since the early-80's he has become well known in the comic world as one of DC Comics best authors and illustrators. Amy Reeder Hadley is the main illustrator for Madame Xanadu. Her works include Madame Xanadu for Vertigo and Fool's Gold for Tokyo Pop. She is in the best of both worlds as an illustrator for the manga world and also for the world of comics.
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Historical Fiction
Age Level: Mature readers, ages 16 and up
Curriculum Ties: No curriculum ties.
Book talking ideas: Discuss the benefits of learning about history through fantasy. Does it change the truth of history when surrounded by magical elements?
Challenge Issues: There are some instances of crude sexuality including rape, but they reflect the savagery of the times in which they're committed. It may, however, cause some parents to frown upon their teens reading this graphic novel.
Why I included it: When the first issue came out a year ago I was hooked on it, but didn't read the rest of the issues until the graphic novel came out. I am fascinated by the combination of magic, fortune telling, and lore from different cultures but also love the powerful female character. Although this graphic novel is considered more of an adult book, I found that there is often a cross over between what are considered teen graphic novels and adult graphic novels.

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.