The "B" Reviews--See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Beastly, by Alex Flinn
*made into movie 2011*
Core themes: It is a retelling of "Beauty and the Beast," so it focuses on true love, beauty lies within, and true friendship.
Drugs/alcohol: There are a few mentions to crack but mostly it’s a few episodes of underage drinking in the first half of the book.
Religion/occult: The main character goes to seek a cure from voodoo doctors and witches for his beastly condition, but it is said in passing. There is a witch, but like a fairy tale it is more for the story than because of an interest in witchcraft.
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 3 Note: The first half of the book is where most of the sexual situations take place. A while after he becomes a beast there is less sexual references because he begins to focus on what can make a person beautiful from the inside and he seems to take a more respectful approach to the opposite sex.
Violence/abuse: Lindy is hit by her father, and there are a few times when the beast lets his beastly nature take over--but never too far.
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Note: There are a lot of hidden swear words in the story, like rhymes with "this" and other words that suggest swear words without actually saying them.
Literary artistry: * * * * * Note: This book is written from the perspective of a teenage boy, so although it is not really well-written, the way the perspective comes out makes it more acceptable.
Comments: If I had a choice, I would drop the first half of the book and only start the story after he becomes a beast. In the beginning he truly is a beast in every sense of the word. He is mean , crude, and horrible, as one would expect from a beast. But he begins to change and becomes a better all-around person after he is transformed and comes into contact with true kindness, beauty, and acceptance.
Author's Official Website: http://www.alexflinn.com
Reviewer: Ayalah
*made into movie 2011*
Core themes: It is a retelling of "Beauty and the Beast," so it focuses on true love, beauty lies within, and true friendship.
Drugs/alcohol: There are a few mentions to crack but mostly it’s a few episodes of underage drinking in the first half of the book.
Religion/occult: The main character goes to seek a cure from voodoo doctors and witches for his beastly condition, but it is said in passing. There is a witch, but like a fairy tale it is more for the story than because of an interest in witchcraft.
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 3 Note: The first half of the book is where most of the sexual situations take place. A while after he becomes a beast there is less sexual references because he begins to focus on what can make a person beautiful from the inside and he seems to take a more respectful approach to the opposite sex.
Violence/abuse: Lindy is hit by her father, and there are a few times when the beast lets his beastly nature take over--but never too far.
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Note: There are a lot of hidden swear words in the story, like rhymes with "this" and other words that suggest swear words without actually saying them.
Literary artistry: * * * * * Note: This book is written from the perspective of a teenage boy, so although it is not really well-written, the way the perspective comes out makes it more acceptable.
Comments: If I had a choice, I would drop the first half of the book and only start the story after he becomes a beast. In the beginning he truly is a beast in every sense of the word. He is mean , crude, and horrible, as one would expect from a beast. But he begins to change and becomes a better all-around person after he is transformed and comes into contact with true kindness, beauty, and acceptance.
Author's Official Website: http://www.alexflinn.com
Reviewer: Ayalah
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
The Beautiful Between, by Alyssa B. Sheinmel
Core themes: platonic boy-girl friendship, the search for identity and family bonds, dealing with terminal illness and death of a child, family secrets
Drugs/alcohol: supporting character smokes; protagonist pretends to smoke; protagonist muses that drinking and drugs/smoking are not so bad if they don't get out of hand; reference to teens drinking beer at a party
Religion/occult: several references to Judaism, because main characters are cultural Jews and follow some Jewish customs
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: none
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4, 7
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: When I began this book, I didn't think I'd like it much. The jacket made the story sound a little on the stupid and insipid side. Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised. Although the writing itself didn't impress me much and although I intensely dislike blasphemy, the story was fresh, thought-provoking, and not at all stupid or insipid. It was also unusual (not to mention refreshing) in that it centers on the developing friendship of a high-school girl and boy...and stays there, rather than shift into some cliched and obligatory romance.
The story is not a cheerful one, though, so readers should be prepared for a contemplative, sometimes painful read that focuses primarily on illness and death. It is not gruesome or melodramatic, and there are light moments, but the heavy themes are something that readers expecting entertainment may want to be aware of before they begin.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.alyssasheinmel.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
Core themes: platonic boy-girl friendship, the search for identity and family bonds, dealing with terminal illness and death of a child, family secrets
Drugs/alcohol: supporting character smokes; protagonist pretends to smoke; protagonist muses that drinking and drugs/smoking are not so bad if they don't get out of hand; reference to teens drinking beer at a party
Religion/occult: several references to Judaism, because main characters are cultural Jews and follow some Jewish customs
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: none
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4, 7
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: When I began this book, I didn't think I'd like it much. The jacket made the story sound a little on the stupid and insipid side. Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised. Although the writing itself didn't impress me much and although I intensely dislike blasphemy, the story was fresh, thought-provoking, and not at all stupid or insipid. It was also unusual (not to mention refreshing) in that it centers on the developing friendship of a high-school girl and boy...and stays there, rather than shift into some cliched and obligatory romance.
The story is not a cheerful one, though, so readers should be prepared for a contemplative, sometimes painful read that focuses primarily on illness and death. It is not gruesome or melodramatic, and there are light moments, but the heavy themes are something that readers expecting entertainment may want to be aware of before they begin.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.alyssasheinmel.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Better Off Friends, by Elizabeth Eulberg
Core themes: dealing with different relationships, boys and girl just being friends, coping with loss
Drugs/alcohol: none
Religion/occult: none
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: none
Vulgarities: 1 (infrequent)
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Better Off Friends is an interesting book about a boy and a girl that become best friends. The book starts when they are in seventh grade and progresses quickly to them being in high school. I liked this aspect of the book a lot because it really showed the progression of their friendship throughout those couple of years. I found the book to be fun and sweet, which made it a very enjoyable read for me. The end of the book wasn’t unexpected, but it still left an air of finality.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.elizabetheulberg.com/
Reviewer: Emily Holland
Core themes: dealing with different relationships, boys and girl just being friends, coping with loss
Drugs/alcohol: none
Religion/occult: none
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: none
Vulgarities: 1 (infrequent)
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Better Off Friends is an interesting book about a boy and a girl that become best friends. The book starts when they are in seventh grade and progresses quickly to them being in high school. I liked this aspect of the book a lot because it really showed the progression of their friendship throughout those couple of years. I found the book to be fun and sweet, which made it a very enjoyable read for me. The end of the book wasn’t unexpected, but it still left an air of finality.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.elizabetheulberg.com/
Reviewer: Emily Holland
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Between Shades of Gray, by Ruta Sepetys
*A New York Times Notable Book of 2011; a Wall Street Journal Best Children’s Book of 2011; a Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2011; the iTunes 2011 Rewind Best Teen Novel; the #1 Book on the Spring 2011 IndieNext List; a School Library Journal Best Book of 2011; a Booklist Best Book of 2011; a Kirkus Best Book of 2011
2012 IRA Children’s and Young Adults Book Award for Young Adult Fiction; 2012 Indies Choice Young Adult Book of the Year; a Carnegie Medal Finalist; a William C. Morris Finalist; a New York Times Bestseller; an International Bestseller*
Core themes: standing for what is right, even in the face of danger; the power of the will to retain hope, character, and dignity in the worst conditions; "no man is an island"; the injustice and evils of Stalin's reign of terror; no one can destroy the most essential part of you; the strength of parental love
Drugs/alcohol: minors smoke on train; prisoners toast using stolen vodka; guards drink alcohol in some scenes (in one they are drunk)
Religion/occult: reference to priest giving last rites to deportees in train station; prisoners read Psalm 102 to decode a letter's hidden message; several references to Jewish and Christian faith; recitation of Psalm 23
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: pervasive and frequently graphic violence and abuse (including non-graphic sexual) committed by Soviet guards against both adults and children; minute descriptions of the deportees' horrendous living conditions
Vulgarities: 1-infrequent
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: I do not believe I have ever read a book as unrelentingly agonizing as this one; yet, it has restored my faith in YA literature. Beautifully written, despite the horrors it describes of the 1940's genocide in the Baltic region, I can't help but recommend it to anyone who is prepared to vicariously experience this largely unknown chapter of European history--a chapter that unfolded literally alongside of Hitler's ethnic cleansing of the Jews. From beginning to end this is a story of sorrow and devastation, lit only by memories of better days and of the beauty of those whose spirits the Soviets could not destroy. I was frustrated and confused at times, when it seemed that the author raised more questions than she answered. Also, the ending was unsatisfying to me, because after staying with such a horrendous story, I wanted more details about how Lina and her remaining family survived and ended their long period of suffering. Even so, I feel as if I lived this story along with the characters, suffering with them, feeling their horror and fear, weeping with them at each tragedy. It is an important book that deserves to be read and discussed for decades to come by both teens and adults. And it deserves every award it has received.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens. Note: Due to the extreme brutality depicted throughout the novel, it is not recommended for very sensitive readers.
Author's Official Website: http://rutasepetys.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*A New York Times Notable Book of 2011; a Wall Street Journal Best Children’s Book of 2011; a Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2011; the iTunes 2011 Rewind Best Teen Novel; the #1 Book on the Spring 2011 IndieNext List; a School Library Journal Best Book of 2011; a Booklist Best Book of 2011; a Kirkus Best Book of 2011
2012 IRA Children’s and Young Adults Book Award for Young Adult Fiction; 2012 Indies Choice Young Adult Book of the Year; a Carnegie Medal Finalist; a William C. Morris Finalist; a New York Times Bestseller; an International Bestseller*
Core themes: standing for what is right, even in the face of danger; the power of the will to retain hope, character, and dignity in the worst conditions; "no man is an island"; the injustice and evils of Stalin's reign of terror; no one can destroy the most essential part of you; the strength of parental love
Drugs/alcohol: minors smoke on train; prisoners toast using stolen vodka; guards drink alcohol in some scenes (in one they are drunk)
Religion/occult: reference to priest giving last rites to deportees in train station; prisoners read Psalm 102 to decode a letter's hidden message; several references to Jewish and Christian faith; recitation of Psalm 23
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: pervasive and frequently graphic violence and abuse (including non-graphic sexual) committed by Soviet guards against both adults and children; minute descriptions of the deportees' horrendous living conditions
Vulgarities: 1-infrequent
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: I do not believe I have ever read a book as unrelentingly agonizing as this one; yet, it has restored my faith in YA literature. Beautifully written, despite the horrors it describes of the 1940's genocide in the Baltic region, I can't help but recommend it to anyone who is prepared to vicariously experience this largely unknown chapter of European history--a chapter that unfolded literally alongside of Hitler's ethnic cleansing of the Jews. From beginning to end this is a story of sorrow and devastation, lit only by memories of better days and of the beauty of those whose spirits the Soviets could not destroy. I was frustrated and confused at times, when it seemed that the author raised more questions than she answered. Also, the ending was unsatisfying to me, because after staying with such a horrendous story, I wanted more details about how Lina and her remaining family survived and ended their long period of suffering. Even so, I feel as if I lived this story along with the characters, suffering with them, feeling their horror and fear, weeping with them at each tragedy. It is an important book that deserves to be read and discussed for decades to come by both teens and adults. And it deserves every award it has received.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens. Note: Due to the extreme brutality depicted throughout the novel, it is not recommended for very sensitive readers.
Author's Official Website: http://rutasepetys.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
Between Two Skies, by Joanne O'Sullivan
*A Junior Library Guild Selection, Spring 2017; Spring Okra Pick, 2017*
Why this book is worth considering:
One of the biggest reasons this novel is worth reading is that it's the first one I've seen that focuses on those who suffered through Hurricane Katrina. O'Sullivan does a beautiful job making the disaster and its aftermath real for those of us who only experienced it through the news, Several times I found myself near tears as she described the suffering, loss, and recovery of her characters and those around them. For that reason alone it is a novel worth reading. But more than that, Between Two Skies is also a good story--serious but hopeful, insightful, and meaningful as it explores the idea of "home" and what that word means for each of us. Less important but no less worthwhile, O'Sullivan paints a vivid picture of Louisiana life near the bayous, inviting readers into an American region that has its own unique customs and culture.
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
When I finished the novel, I immediately offered it to one of my own teen daughters, because its theme of "home" is particularly meaningful to her, and I felt that its strengths outweigh its weaknesses. Parents do need to consider its weaknesses carefully, however. In my opinion there are few, though I doubt it has the literary quality to become a classic, Here are the things that gave me pause.
First, there is romance that includes some kissing. This is kept sweet and light, but some parents may be bothered by it, especially since the protagonist kind of cheats on her love interest at a bar (using a fake I.D.) by engaging in heavy kissing with a boy she doesn't even like. The reasons she does so are understandable, not merely a show of bad character, but with the illegal drinking and general debauchery of the scene, conservative parents may be uncomfortable. Following this scene is another scene in which the protagonist is stranded and is subsequently comforted and cared for by a homosexual, older man and his friends. Although they are nothing but kind and well-mannered, one of them does refer briefly to kissing another man. Religion is generally absent from the novel, except for occasional references to the Catholic identity of the main characters, which are presented in a general, cultural way. Regarding violence, the novel is centered on Hurricane Katrina, and the author brings it to vivid life. This means that there are some references to animal and human deaths and suffering, although none of it is gratuitous.
What bothered me the most, in the end, was none of the issues mentioned above but rather the message that the author seemed to be offering her readers. Rather than summarize, I will quote the novel directly, as stated by a character to the protagonist: "You are at an important point in your life, where you can start making decisions for yourself. They're not always going to be the right ones. But they need to be yours. It's not easy to go against what your parents think is right. Trust me--I know that. But at the end of the day, you have to be true to yourself, whatever that may be." Considering that the protagonist is only 16 and uses this advice to rebel against her parents later on, I felt that the character's advice encourages underage teens to spurn legitimate authority, rather than reach toward maturity.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.joanneosullivan.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*A Junior Library Guild Selection, Spring 2017; Spring Okra Pick, 2017*
Why this book is worth considering:
One of the biggest reasons this novel is worth reading is that it's the first one I've seen that focuses on those who suffered through Hurricane Katrina. O'Sullivan does a beautiful job making the disaster and its aftermath real for those of us who only experienced it through the news, Several times I found myself near tears as she described the suffering, loss, and recovery of her characters and those around them. For that reason alone it is a novel worth reading. But more than that, Between Two Skies is also a good story--serious but hopeful, insightful, and meaningful as it explores the idea of "home" and what that word means for each of us. Less important but no less worthwhile, O'Sullivan paints a vivid picture of Louisiana life near the bayous, inviting readers into an American region that has its own unique customs and culture.
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
When I finished the novel, I immediately offered it to one of my own teen daughters, because its theme of "home" is particularly meaningful to her, and I felt that its strengths outweigh its weaknesses. Parents do need to consider its weaknesses carefully, however. In my opinion there are few, though I doubt it has the literary quality to become a classic, Here are the things that gave me pause.
First, there is romance that includes some kissing. This is kept sweet and light, but some parents may be bothered by it, especially since the protagonist kind of cheats on her love interest at a bar (using a fake I.D.) by engaging in heavy kissing with a boy she doesn't even like. The reasons she does so are understandable, not merely a show of bad character, but with the illegal drinking and general debauchery of the scene, conservative parents may be uncomfortable. Following this scene is another scene in which the protagonist is stranded and is subsequently comforted and cared for by a homosexual, older man and his friends. Although they are nothing but kind and well-mannered, one of them does refer briefly to kissing another man. Religion is generally absent from the novel, except for occasional references to the Catholic identity of the main characters, which are presented in a general, cultural way. Regarding violence, the novel is centered on Hurricane Katrina, and the author brings it to vivid life. This means that there are some references to animal and human deaths and suffering, although none of it is gratuitous.
What bothered me the most, in the end, was none of the issues mentioned above but rather the message that the author seemed to be offering her readers. Rather than summarize, I will quote the novel directly, as stated by a character to the protagonist: "You are at an important point in your life, where you can start making decisions for yourself. They're not always going to be the right ones. But they need to be yours. It's not easy to go against what your parents think is right. Trust me--I know that. But at the end of the day, you have to be true to yourself, whatever that may be." Considering that the protagonist is only 16 and uses this advice to rebel against her parents later on, I felt that the character's advice encourages underage teens to spurn legitimate authority, rather than reach toward maturity.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.joanneosullivan.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
A Big Dose of Lucky, by Marthe Jocelyn
Why this book is worth considering:
One of things that drew me quickly into this novel was the unusual setting--1960s Canada. If your teen enjoys historical fiction, this may be all the reason you need to give it a try. Add to that that the protagonist is an abandoned black teenager searching for her mother, and you have the ingredients for a fascinating story. Jocelyn tells her story, well, too, with believable and vivid writing that is at times moving and thought-provoking and that is always interesting.
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
At first, the story was compelling enough that I immediately immersed myself in Malou's world, ready to accompany her on whatever adventures she would face. We meet her growing up in an orphanage, innocent in the ways of the world but suddenly facing it alone when the orphanage dissolves. She is given a clue to her true identity and follows it to Parry Sound, Ontario, where most of the story takes place. So far, so good, but it is during her search for her mother in Parry Sound that the teen reader is suddenly confronted with some mature content that he or she may not be prepared for: lesbian romance, lesbian childbearing through artificial insemination, controversial interracial romance (remember, this is the 1960s), out-of-wedlock childbearing, and infant abandonment. And this is all on top of Malou's first boyfriend and her bitterness against God and religion.
While some parents may be interested in reading along with their teen to facilitate discussion on these difficult but real-world topics, even they may be disturbed at the level of detail Jocelyn includes. For example, Malou is given a painfully detailed explanation of how artificial insemination works--so detailed, in fact, that I found myself squirming. By the time I reached the end of the book, I couldn't help but be relieved. On the one hand, A Big Dose of Lucky is a meaningful, fascinating story with a depth unmatched by many YA books. On the other hand, I also felt that what I had actually read was an adult book in a YA disguise. Reading Lucky is more of an experience than entertainment, and the teen reader definitely needs to be ready for it. For me, even as an adult, it was just too much.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens/ all teens/ no teens.
Author website: http://www.marthejocelyn.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
Why this book is worth considering:
One of things that drew me quickly into this novel was the unusual setting--1960s Canada. If your teen enjoys historical fiction, this may be all the reason you need to give it a try. Add to that that the protagonist is an abandoned black teenager searching for her mother, and you have the ingredients for a fascinating story. Jocelyn tells her story, well, too, with believable and vivid writing that is at times moving and thought-provoking and that is always interesting.
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
At first, the story was compelling enough that I immediately immersed myself in Malou's world, ready to accompany her on whatever adventures she would face. We meet her growing up in an orphanage, innocent in the ways of the world but suddenly facing it alone when the orphanage dissolves. She is given a clue to her true identity and follows it to Parry Sound, Ontario, where most of the story takes place. So far, so good, but it is during her search for her mother in Parry Sound that the teen reader is suddenly confronted with some mature content that he or she may not be prepared for: lesbian romance, lesbian childbearing through artificial insemination, controversial interracial romance (remember, this is the 1960s), out-of-wedlock childbearing, and infant abandonment. And this is all on top of Malou's first boyfriend and her bitterness against God and religion.
While some parents may be interested in reading along with their teen to facilitate discussion on these difficult but real-world topics, even they may be disturbed at the level of detail Jocelyn includes. For example, Malou is given a painfully detailed explanation of how artificial insemination works--so detailed, in fact, that I found myself squirming. By the time I reached the end of the book, I couldn't help but be relieved. On the one hand, A Big Dose of Lucky is a meaningful, fascinating story with a depth unmatched by many YA books. On the other hand, I also felt that what I had actually read was an adult book in a YA disguise. Reading Lucky is more of an experience than entertainment, and the teen reader definitely needs to be ready for it. For me, even as an adult, it was just too much.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens/ all teens/ no teens.
Author website: http://www.marthejocelyn.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
Black Ice, by Becca Fitzpatrick
Why this book is worth considering:
Sometimes there is nothing like curling up on a wintry Friday night with ice cream and a suspenseful movie. Black Ice is the novel equivalent of that. It's exciting, fast-paced (for the most part), intriguing, and romantic. Best of all, as YA novels go, it is relatively clean. Swearing is restricted to "d---", and I don't think I even read so much as a "G--" in the dialogue (which is pretty rare in YA novels). There are instances of drinking, drugs, one flashback to a fearful experiment with a Ouija board, and some sexual references/graphic kissing and petting; somehow, though, the author manages to present them with restraint. For example, the drugs/drinking happen within the context of a crime--not gratuitous partying. And even though there are some heavy romantic scenes and flashbacks--including some titillatingly graphic petting--there is no sex. In fact, even though the protagonist has only a Christian upbringing, not a current relationship with God (she mentions going to church and Sunday school but is clearly depending on fate, not God, throughout the novel), she mentions wanting to wait to have sex. It is a little unclear if she ever had sex in the past, but throughout the novel she makes it fairly plain that she does not regard it as casual act.
Overall, this is a fast, fun choice for the older teen (17-19 is suggested; it is very adult in content overall). With plenty of twists and turns, this is one of the better choices for a mind-candy read.
Why it may not be right for your teen:
All that said, though the actual writing was smooth and sophisticated and razor-sharp realistic in terms of voice (not an easy feat to pull off), the plot is noticeably flawed. Being a writer myself, I felt that I could see too much of the author's planning and plotting. Good writing not only comes alive on the page, as Fitzpatrick's does, it is also so well-constructed that the author disappears completely and the story becomes real for the reader. My suspension of disbelief was thorough in some parts of the novel, especially the first third or so. As it progressed, though, I felt like the curtain began to lift and I was seeing too much of the author's efforts behind it, almost as if I could see the way she responded to editorial and writer's groups feedback before the novel went to press. The story was plotted too carefully, the characters drawn too deliberately, the themes and "what-if" premise too obvious; thus, the final twists and turns came into view long before they actually happened. Also, the romance that carries the novel the last third of the book struck me as too incredible to take seriously. Perhaps it was meant to be that way, but I felt that such a fairytale ending was unfortunate in a novel that was so strong and believable in other places.
It is also important for readers to understand that the novel is pretty violent, as YA novels go. At the beginning we witness a chillingly graphic murder, and during the course of the novel we witness several more murders and murder/suicide attempts. Not only that, most of the novel is a story of survival with very little emotional reprieve. Readers accustomed to movies with violence and struggle will not have much trouble with this, but sensitive readers may want to watch out--or, at the very least, they should avoid the prologue, which I felt to be the most frightening (and best-written) part of the novel in its stark, horrifying realism.
Literary artistry: * * * * * Note: If the plot had been stronger, this would have deserved four stars. Fitzpatrick's prose is clean, crisp, swift, and sophisticated. Considering that one of her previous novels received multiple awards and nominations, I suspect that it might be worth checking out the rest of her work.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens/ no teens.
Author Website: http://www.beccafitzpatrick.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
Why this book is worth considering:
Sometimes there is nothing like curling up on a wintry Friday night with ice cream and a suspenseful movie. Black Ice is the novel equivalent of that. It's exciting, fast-paced (for the most part), intriguing, and romantic. Best of all, as YA novels go, it is relatively clean. Swearing is restricted to "d---", and I don't think I even read so much as a "G--" in the dialogue (which is pretty rare in YA novels). There are instances of drinking, drugs, one flashback to a fearful experiment with a Ouija board, and some sexual references/graphic kissing and petting; somehow, though, the author manages to present them with restraint. For example, the drugs/drinking happen within the context of a crime--not gratuitous partying. And even though there are some heavy romantic scenes and flashbacks--including some titillatingly graphic petting--there is no sex. In fact, even though the protagonist has only a Christian upbringing, not a current relationship with God (she mentions going to church and Sunday school but is clearly depending on fate, not God, throughout the novel), she mentions wanting to wait to have sex. It is a little unclear if she ever had sex in the past, but throughout the novel she makes it fairly plain that she does not regard it as casual act.
Overall, this is a fast, fun choice for the older teen (17-19 is suggested; it is very adult in content overall). With plenty of twists and turns, this is one of the better choices for a mind-candy read.
Why it may not be right for your teen:
All that said, though the actual writing was smooth and sophisticated and razor-sharp realistic in terms of voice (not an easy feat to pull off), the plot is noticeably flawed. Being a writer myself, I felt that I could see too much of the author's planning and plotting. Good writing not only comes alive on the page, as Fitzpatrick's does, it is also so well-constructed that the author disappears completely and the story becomes real for the reader. My suspension of disbelief was thorough in some parts of the novel, especially the first third or so. As it progressed, though, I felt like the curtain began to lift and I was seeing too much of the author's efforts behind it, almost as if I could see the way she responded to editorial and writer's groups feedback before the novel went to press. The story was plotted too carefully, the characters drawn too deliberately, the themes and "what-if" premise too obvious; thus, the final twists and turns came into view long before they actually happened. Also, the romance that carries the novel the last third of the book struck me as too incredible to take seriously. Perhaps it was meant to be that way, but I felt that such a fairytale ending was unfortunate in a novel that was so strong and believable in other places.
It is also important for readers to understand that the novel is pretty violent, as YA novels go. At the beginning we witness a chillingly graphic murder, and during the course of the novel we witness several more murders and murder/suicide attempts. Not only that, most of the novel is a story of survival with very little emotional reprieve. Readers accustomed to movies with violence and struggle will not have much trouble with this, but sensitive readers may want to watch out--or, at the very least, they should avoid the prologue, which I felt to be the most frightening (and best-written) part of the novel in its stark, horrifying realism.
Literary artistry: * * * * * Note: If the plot had been stronger, this would have deserved four stars. Fitzpatrick's prose is clean, crisp, swift, and sophisticated. Considering that one of her previous novels received multiple awards and nominations, I suspect that it might be worth checking out the rest of her work.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens/ no teens.
Author Website: http://www.beccafitzpatrick.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Bluefish, by Pat Schmatz
*2010 PEN/Phyllis Naylor Working Writer Fellowship, Josette Frank Award (Bank Street College of Education), ALA Notable Children's Book, Junior Library Guild Selection, Notable Children's Book in the Language Arts (National Council of Teachers of English), The Horn Book - Best of 2011, Crystal Kite Award (SCBWI Midwest), Elizabeth Burr/Worzalla Award (Wisc Library Association), Top 10 Indie NEXT List*
Core themes: death and grieving (both pets and people), middle-school boy/girl relationships, the complexities of dealing with internal pain and anger, recovery from alcoholism, middle-school illiteracy, the healing power of literature, how random kindness can affect others
Drugs/alcohol: primary adult character is a recovering alcoholic and is also a smoker
Religion/occult: none
Sexuality: 2
Violence/abuse: one protagonist is regularly neglected by mother; other protagonist lives in a dysfunctional home with grandfather, who is verbally pretty rough with him; a couple of fist-fights (in one, the primary protagonist punches his grandfather)
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4, 5, 7
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Though some of the vulgar language offended me and though I don’t like to see any of it in YA literature, this novel was exceptional in every other way. Gritty and painful, yet also hopeful and sweet at times, this novel managed to explore both the subjects of illiteracy and grieving in a powerful way. Schmatz understands her subjects, and none of them are easy—middle schoolers, domestic dysfunction, illiteracy, teaching, death and grieving. It would thus seem that the novel would be depressing, unrealistic, and messy; however, it isn't. Instead, she handles her story with skill and insight and sensitivity. If this book does not win some kind of major award, I will be very surprised.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens. (with some discussion of the content)
Author's Official Website: http://www.patschmatz.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*2010 PEN/Phyllis Naylor Working Writer Fellowship, Josette Frank Award (Bank Street College of Education), ALA Notable Children's Book, Junior Library Guild Selection, Notable Children's Book in the Language Arts (National Council of Teachers of English), The Horn Book - Best of 2011, Crystal Kite Award (SCBWI Midwest), Elizabeth Burr/Worzalla Award (Wisc Library Association), Top 10 Indie NEXT List*
Core themes: death and grieving (both pets and people), middle-school boy/girl relationships, the complexities of dealing with internal pain and anger, recovery from alcoholism, middle-school illiteracy, the healing power of literature, how random kindness can affect others
Drugs/alcohol: primary adult character is a recovering alcoholic and is also a smoker
Religion/occult: none
Sexuality: 2
Violence/abuse: one protagonist is regularly neglected by mother; other protagonist lives in a dysfunctional home with grandfather, who is verbally pretty rough with him; a couple of fist-fights (in one, the primary protagonist punches his grandfather)
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4, 5, 7
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Though some of the vulgar language offended me and though I don’t like to see any of it in YA literature, this novel was exceptional in every other way. Gritty and painful, yet also hopeful and sweet at times, this novel managed to explore both the subjects of illiteracy and grieving in a powerful way. Schmatz understands her subjects, and none of them are easy—middle schoolers, domestic dysfunction, illiteracy, teaching, death and grieving. It would thus seem that the novel would be depressing, unrealistic, and messy; however, it isn't. Instead, she handles her story with skill and insight and sensitivity. If this book does not win some kind of major award, I will be very surprised.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens. (with some discussion of the content)
Author's Official Website: http://www.patschmatz.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
Bone Gap, by Laura Ruby
*Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature, 2016; National Book Award (Young People's Lit.) finalist, 2015; Cybils (Speculative Fiction/YA), finalist, 2015*
Why this book is worth considering:
The accolades this novel has received are truly impressive. One glance at them, and you would probably run to your nearest library or bookstore to snag yourself a copy, if you were going on reviews alone. Ruby has done some remarkable work in Bone Gap, to be sure. It is original and genre-busting, combining several different genres, including the relatively new "magical realism." Ruby's writing is stylish and elegant in a way that many YA books aren't, and the story is complex and rich enough to engage teen readers on a deeper level than mere leisure entertainment. For teens who enjoy "literary" novels, Bone Gap may be a good choice.
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
When I read accolades like those Bone Gap has enjoyed, I sometimes feel like an idiot because I can't see what the reviewers see in the book. This novel is one of those, because in all honesty, I didn't like it much. Objectively, I can see that it is well-done in many ways, and it is far-and-away above many YA novels in terms of literary quality. However, I have to stop short of gushing the way many reviewers have, and I definitely don't agree with the reviewer that claims it deserves a place on the shelf next to Twain and McCullers. I was just glad when I reached the last page.
Now, it must be said that sometimes I am slow to appreciate fine art and only come to love a work after two or three exposures to it. I mean, I hated Les Miserables the first time I saw it and now put it in my top five favorite musicals--so with Bone Gap, who knows how I'd feel after a second reading? It should also be said that Bone Gap isn't "my" type of novel. So again, it is possible that I am missing something I would catch if I reread it. Right now, all I can say is that I found it a little off-putting and confusing, and while I can appreciate magical realism, I didn't see the point of it in this novel.
My opinions aside, parents do need to know that the novel contains significant mature content. This includes occasional swearing that runs the gamut of words; sexual situations that go beyond a quick-and-awkward teen experimentation (though a couple of the scenes might go over the heads of some teen readers in terms of understanding exactly what the lovers are doing); one reference at the end to a character being homosexual and having a boyfriend; themes of abuse and neglect; and violence (occasional but a bit on the brutal side). I don't recall any religious or drug/drinking content, but it may be that I am forgetting; if so, it is mild.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens/ all teens/ no teens.
Author website: http://lauraruby.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature, 2016; National Book Award (Young People's Lit.) finalist, 2015; Cybils (Speculative Fiction/YA), finalist, 2015*
Why this book is worth considering:
The accolades this novel has received are truly impressive. One glance at them, and you would probably run to your nearest library or bookstore to snag yourself a copy, if you were going on reviews alone. Ruby has done some remarkable work in Bone Gap, to be sure. It is original and genre-busting, combining several different genres, including the relatively new "magical realism." Ruby's writing is stylish and elegant in a way that many YA books aren't, and the story is complex and rich enough to engage teen readers on a deeper level than mere leisure entertainment. For teens who enjoy "literary" novels, Bone Gap may be a good choice.
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
When I read accolades like those Bone Gap has enjoyed, I sometimes feel like an idiot because I can't see what the reviewers see in the book. This novel is one of those, because in all honesty, I didn't like it much. Objectively, I can see that it is well-done in many ways, and it is far-and-away above many YA novels in terms of literary quality. However, I have to stop short of gushing the way many reviewers have, and I definitely don't agree with the reviewer that claims it deserves a place on the shelf next to Twain and McCullers. I was just glad when I reached the last page.
Now, it must be said that sometimes I am slow to appreciate fine art and only come to love a work after two or three exposures to it. I mean, I hated Les Miserables the first time I saw it and now put it in my top five favorite musicals--so with Bone Gap, who knows how I'd feel after a second reading? It should also be said that Bone Gap isn't "my" type of novel. So again, it is possible that I am missing something I would catch if I reread it. Right now, all I can say is that I found it a little off-putting and confusing, and while I can appreciate magical realism, I didn't see the point of it in this novel.
My opinions aside, parents do need to know that the novel contains significant mature content. This includes occasional swearing that runs the gamut of words; sexual situations that go beyond a quick-and-awkward teen experimentation (though a couple of the scenes might go over the heads of some teen readers in terms of understanding exactly what the lovers are doing); one reference at the end to a character being homosexual and having a boyfriend; themes of abuse and neglect; and violence (occasional but a bit on the brutal side). I don't recall any religious or drug/drinking content, but it may be that I am forgetting; if so, it is mild.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens/ all teens/ no teens.
Author website: http://lauraruby.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
The Book of Blood and Shadow, by Robin Wasserman
*2012 Kid's Indie Next List "Inspired Recommendations for Kids from Indie Booksellers"; 2013 ALA Best Books for Young Adults*
Core themes: faith in God, trust, greed/quest for knowledge, sacrifice for a greater good
Drugs/alcohol: Several instances of teens drinking wine while in Europe, a celebratory bottle of vodka is shared by some teens, but not the protagonist. An instance of drunk driving that ends in a car accident.
Religion/occult: Essentially, this book is about religion and to a degree, the occult. The protagonist is an atheist, and the entire plot revolves around historical letters and a manuscript that if decoded, could lead to the ultimate knowledge of God.
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2 Note: The only thing graphically described is kissing. The rest is suggested or implied but not described.
Violence/abuse: One murder by stabbing, a prince violates a girl by groping her in a corner; several instances of bloodletting; description of a car accident that killed two teens.
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: If you like to judge a book by its cover, you might assume this is another teen vampire series. You would be wrong. The first jarring chapter draws you into the world of Nora Kane and what happened before and after her friend Chris was killed. The author melds historical religious fiction with present-day drama as the reader jumps between 21st-century New England and 17th-century Prague via letters translated from Latin. The attention to detail both in plot and setting is first rate. I have never been to Prague, but I certainly feel as if I have now. If I have any complaints, I would say the portrayal of the Catholic Church and the way it dealt with occult practices in the 17th century was a little too negative for my taste. Also, the protagonist is a very cynical atheist, so some of her thoughts and dialogue are quite negative toward Christianity and Judaism. On a positive note, one of the stronger characters offers sound counterarguments to her belief system. Overall, this is a very good YA historical-religious-mystery novel.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author's Official Website: http://www.robinwasserman.com/
Reviewer: Annika Holland
*2012 Kid's Indie Next List "Inspired Recommendations for Kids from Indie Booksellers"; 2013 ALA Best Books for Young Adults*
Core themes: faith in God, trust, greed/quest for knowledge, sacrifice for a greater good
Drugs/alcohol: Several instances of teens drinking wine while in Europe, a celebratory bottle of vodka is shared by some teens, but not the protagonist. An instance of drunk driving that ends in a car accident.
Religion/occult: Essentially, this book is about religion and to a degree, the occult. The protagonist is an atheist, and the entire plot revolves around historical letters and a manuscript that if decoded, could lead to the ultimate knowledge of God.
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2 Note: The only thing graphically described is kissing. The rest is suggested or implied but not described.
Violence/abuse: One murder by stabbing, a prince violates a girl by groping her in a corner; several instances of bloodletting; description of a car accident that killed two teens.
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: If you like to judge a book by its cover, you might assume this is another teen vampire series. You would be wrong. The first jarring chapter draws you into the world of Nora Kane and what happened before and after her friend Chris was killed. The author melds historical religious fiction with present-day drama as the reader jumps between 21st-century New England and 17th-century Prague via letters translated from Latin. The attention to detail both in plot and setting is first rate. I have never been to Prague, but I certainly feel as if I have now. If I have any complaints, I would say the portrayal of the Catholic Church and the way it dealt with occult practices in the 17th century was a little too negative for my taste. Also, the protagonist is a very cynical atheist, so some of her thoughts and dialogue are quite negative toward Christianity and Judaism. On a positive note, one of the stronger characters offers sound counterarguments to her belief system. Overall, this is a very good YA historical-religious-mystery novel.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author's Official Website: http://www.robinwasserman.com/
Reviewer: Annika Holland
Book Scavenger, by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman (Book Scavenger Series, #1)
Why this book is worth considering:
Because I am at heart a children's author, it's important that I take time to read the kinds of stories I'd like to write, which means middle-grade novels, and every once in a while I find one that I have to share on What's In It. Although Book Scavenger was written for pre-teens with a protagonist who is nearly 13, it is a perfect choice for young teens, as well. Not only is it squeaky clean, it is as original and fun as a book can be. In fact, the premise of the novel--a book-based game--is brilliant, and I wish it actually existed. Kids who enjoy books, puzzles, and ciphers will especially enjoy the novel, but even kids who don't will have fun with it. It didn't win all the awards listed above for nothing! In addition, it has a couple of important themes for readers to ponder, such as what it means to be a friend and how growing up sometimes means putting the needs of someone else ahead of oneself. No, this novel is not "great literature," but it is great entertainment, appropriate for everyone. It would even make the perfect family movie! (Hint, hint, Hollywood!)
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
I have no reservations about handing Book Scavenger to any child or teen; however, very wary parents should know that the novel does have one violent scene at the very beginning in which an important character is shot (not fatally) and several scenes in which the main characters are caught in potentially dangerous situations. Keep in mind, though, that when I say "violent," I'm talking Disney PG. Only the most sensitive readers would find Book Scavenger disturbing in any way.
The only other criticism I have is that, again, this novel is brilliantly imaginative, but it isn't great literature. Near the end the plot became so unrealistic that my suspension of disbelief completely crumbled. Kids who notice contrived or ridiculous plot elements will be as annoyed as I was. Still, book #2 is beckoning...
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens/ all teens/ no teens.
Author website: https://jenniferchamblissbertman.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
- *New York Times Bestseller, Bank Street College Best Book of the Year, NCTE Notable Children’s Book in the Language Arts, Indie Next Kids’ #6 pick (Summer 2015), ABA Indies Introduce New Voices Finalist, An Amazon Best Book of the Year, Junior Library Guild selection, 2015, A Publishers Weekly Best Book for Summer, SF Gate Summer Reads Recommendation, 2015, Cybils Middle Grade Fiction Finalist, 2015, SCBWI Crystal Kite Award Finalist, 2016, Colorado Book Award Finalist, 2016, Georgia Children’s Book Award Finalist, 2016-2017, Maryland Black Eyed Susan Award Nominee, 2016-2017, Massachusetts Children’s Book Award Nominee, 2016-2017, Pennsylvania Young Reader’s Choice Award Nominee, 2016-2017, Triple Crown Lamplighter Book Award Winner, 2016-2017, Utah Educational Library Media Association Award Master List Selection, 2016, Jr Tome Society and Club Tome It List Nominee, 2016-2017, Indiana Young Hoosier Book Award Nominee, 2017-2018, Louisiana Young Readers Choice Award Nominee, 2017-2018, Missouri Mark Twain Award Nominee, 2017-2018, Nebraska Golden Sower Award Finalist, 2017-2018, North Carolina Young Adult Book Award Nominee, 2017-2018, Connecticut Nutmeg Book Award Nominee, 2018, Illinois Rebecca Caudill Young Reader’s Book Award Nominee, 2017-2018, Illinois Bluestem Book Award Nominee, 2017-2018, Utah Beehive Award Nominee, 2018, Mississippi Magnolia Children’s Choice Book Award Nominee, 2018, Rhode Island Middle School Book Award Nominee, 2018, Tennessee Volunteer State Book Award Nominee, 2018, Washington Library Association Sasquatch Book Award Nominee, 2018, Oregon Battle of the Books selection 2018-2019,Minnesota Youth Reading Award Nominee 2018-2019, Hawaii Nēnē Book Award Nominee, 2018, West Australian Young Readers Book Award Nominee, 2019*
Why this book is worth considering:
Because I am at heart a children's author, it's important that I take time to read the kinds of stories I'd like to write, which means middle-grade novels, and every once in a while I find one that I have to share on What's In It. Although Book Scavenger was written for pre-teens with a protagonist who is nearly 13, it is a perfect choice for young teens, as well. Not only is it squeaky clean, it is as original and fun as a book can be. In fact, the premise of the novel--a book-based game--is brilliant, and I wish it actually existed. Kids who enjoy books, puzzles, and ciphers will especially enjoy the novel, but even kids who don't will have fun with it. It didn't win all the awards listed above for nothing! In addition, it has a couple of important themes for readers to ponder, such as what it means to be a friend and how growing up sometimes means putting the needs of someone else ahead of oneself. No, this novel is not "great literature," but it is great entertainment, appropriate for everyone. It would even make the perfect family movie! (Hint, hint, Hollywood!)
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
I have no reservations about handing Book Scavenger to any child or teen; however, very wary parents should know that the novel does have one violent scene at the very beginning in which an important character is shot (not fatally) and several scenes in which the main characters are caught in potentially dangerous situations. Keep in mind, though, that when I say "violent," I'm talking Disney PG. Only the most sensitive readers would find Book Scavenger disturbing in any way.
The only other criticism I have is that, again, this novel is brilliantly imaginative, but it isn't great literature. Near the end the plot became so unrealistic that my suspension of disbelief completely crumbled. Kids who notice contrived or ridiculous plot elements will be as annoyed as I was. Still, book #2 is beckoning...
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens/ all teens/ no teens.
Author website: https://jenniferchamblissbertman.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
The Book Thief, by Markus Zusak
*made into movie 2013*
*Commonwealth Writers Prize for Best Book (South East Asia & South Pacific); Horn Book Fanfare; Kirkus Reviews Editor Choice Award; School Library Journal Best Book of the Year; Daniel Elliott Peace Award; Publishers Weekly Best Children Book of the Year; Booklist Children Editors' Choice; Bulletin Blue Ribbon Book; ALA Best Books for Young Adults; Michael L. Printz Honor Book; Book Sense Book of the Year; Pacific Northwest Young Readers Choice Master List*
Core themes: human perseverence; the complex beauty and ugliness of the human race; the power of words to heal and harm
Drugs/alcohol: Protagonist (a minor) is given a little celebratory champagne by her foster father; protagonist tries a cigarette; Rosa prays for husband to survive
Religion/occult: unflattering (but likely realistic) portrayal of teacher-nuns in local school; a few vague references to Catholic influence in the city; comment about how God never seems to answer prayers; mild slur of Catholics as character questions the Catholic doctrine that suicide is mortal sin when the reason for the suicide is desperation and terrible psychological trauma.
Romance/sexuality: reference to woman who never married but had 2 sons; protagonist kisses boy who loved her goodbye after she finds him dead (he had been begging for a kiss from her for years)
Violence/abuse: Liesel's foster mother is verbally and physically abusive, often beating her hard with a wooden spoon; a couple of fist fights; Nazi whipping of Jews and Germans who help them; brutal treatment of Jewish prisoners as they march through town to concentration camps; many graphic (but brief) descriptions of deaths and bomb destruction; several deaths of major characters; teacher-nuns use harsh corporal punishment on protagonist; German boys are examined naked in a Nazi office as part of their entrance into service; one character's son is found dead by suicidal hanging
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 -- often; the racial slurs are non-gratuitous but are in keeping with the Nazi hatred of Jews
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: It is nearly impossible to describe this brilliant novel in any meaningful way, because it is so unique. Narrated by Death itself, Zusak tells the bleak but moving story of a young German girl living Nazi Germany in a style I can most honestly describe as odd--but that is also incredibly poetic and powerful. At times Zusak's style stirred up some mild irritation, because his frequent descriptions (similes, metaphors, imagery) could be so jarring, but my primary feeling is awe for his singular artistry.
Be aware that this story is not a cheerful read, though there are certainly bright and inspiring moments. It also does contain a fair amount of vulgar language (including blasphemous references to Jesus). IWhereas this language really bothers me in most books, however, in The Book Thief I was not bothered quite as much as usual. I am not sure why--perhaps because the horrific nature of the story (Nazi Germany at its height) lent itself more to such language than other books do and seemed less gratuitous.
Also be aware that this novel contains many graphic references to and descriptions of death and violence, especially near the end. These are generally kept short, often more as if part of a police report than a scene with which readers will engage. Because of them, though (and the generally mature nature of the novel), I suggest having very sensitive teens wait before they read this book. This is a novel of the highest literary quality, and it deserves its awards, but it should be read thoughtfully and best with the guidance of an adult (unless the teen is already knowledgeable about Nazi Germany).
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens. Note: I also recommend this novel for adults.
Author website: http://www.randomhouse.com/features/markuszusak/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*made into movie 2013*
*Commonwealth Writers Prize for Best Book (South East Asia & South Pacific); Horn Book Fanfare; Kirkus Reviews Editor Choice Award; School Library Journal Best Book of the Year; Daniel Elliott Peace Award; Publishers Weekly Best Children Book of the Year; Booklist Children Editors' Choice; Bulletin Blue Ribbon Book; ALA Best Books for Young Adults; Michael L. Printz Honor Book; Book Sense Book of the Year; Pacific Northwest Young Readers Choice Master List*
Core themes: human perseverence; the complex beauty and ugliness of the human race; the power of words to heal and harm
Drugs/alcohol: Protagonist (a minor) is given a little celebratory champagne by her foster father; protagonist tries a cigarette; Rosa prays for husband to survive
Religion/occult: unflattering (but likely realistic) portrayal of teacher-nuns in local school; a few vague references to Catholic influence in the city; comment about how God never seems to answer prayers; mild slur of Catholics as character questions the Catholic doctrine that suicide is mortal sin when the reason for the suicide is desperation and terrible psychological trauma.
Romance/sexuality: reference to woman who never married but had 2 sons; protagonist kisses boy who loved her goodbye after she finds him dead (he had been begging for a kiss from her for years)
Violence/abuse: Liesel's foster mother is verbally and physically abusive, often beating her hard with a wooden spoon; a couple of fist fights; Nazi whipping of Jews and Germans who help them; brutal treatment of Jewish prisoners as they march through town to concentration camps; many graphic (but brief) descriptions of deaths and bomb destruction; several deaths of major characters; teacher-nuns use harsh corporal punishment on protagonist; German boys are examined naked in a Nazi office as part of their entrance into service; one character's son is found dead by suicidal hanging
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 -- often; the racial slurs are non-gratuitous but are in keeping with the Nazi hatred of Jews
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: It is nearly impossible to describe this brilliant novel in any meaningful way, because it is so unique. Narrated by Death itself, Zusak tells the bleak but moving story of a young German girl living Nazi Germany in a style I can most honestly describe as odd--but that is also incredibly poetic and powerful. At times Zusak's style stirred up some mild irritation, because his frequent descriptions (similes, metaphors, imagery) could be so jarring, but my primary feeling is awe for his singular artistry.
Be aware that this story is not a cheerful read, though there are certainly bright and inspiring moments. It also does contain a fair amount of vulgar language (including blasphemous references to Jesus). IWhereas this language really bothers me in most books, however, in The Book Thief I was not bothered quite as much as usual. I am not sure why--perhaps because the horrific nature of the story (Nazi Germany at its height) lent itself more to such language than other books do and seemed less gratuitous.
Also be aware that this novel contains many graphic references to and descriptions of death and violence, especially near the end. These are generally kept short, often more as if part of a police report than a scene with which readers will engage. Because of them, though (and the generally mature nature of the novel), I suggest having very sensitive teens wait before they read this book. This is a novel of the highest literary quality, and it deserves its awards, but it should be read thoughtfully and best with the guidance of an adult (unless the teen is already knowledgeable about Nazi Germany).
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens. Note: I also recommend this novel for adults.
Author website: http://www.randomhouse.com/features/markuszusak/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
The Books of Ember series, by Jeanne DuPrau
*made into movie 2008*
Core themes: safety, love for family and friends, the courage to make new beginnings
Drugs/alcohol: none
Religion/occult: the believers thought of the Builders as a kind of god.
Romance/sexuality: none
Violence/abuse: Doon and another boy are chained and treated like a kind of slave
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: One of my favorite series! The movie is good, too.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author's website: http://www.jeanneduprau.com/index.shtml
Reviewer: Merry Blomquist
*made into movie 2008*
Core themes: safety, love for family and friends, the courage to make new beginnings
Drugs/alcohol: none
Religion/occult: the believers thought of the Builders as a kind of god.
Romance/sexuality: none
Violence/abuse: Doon and another boy are chained and treated like a kind of slave
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: One of my favorite series! The movie is good, too.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author's website: http://www.jeanneduprau.com/index.shtml
Reviewer: Merry Blomquist
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Born at Midnight by C.C. Hunter (Shadow Falls: The Beginning, book 1)
Another urban fantasy type story where a girl is seeing visions and then is hauled off to a “special” camp where she discovers (surprise!) that she is not fully human. All the teens around her, including several boys who like her (surprise again--So weird how that happens!), are some form of werewolf, vampire, witch, fairy etc…The writing is okay, nothing exceptional, but this plotline has been rehashed too many times recently in YA lit.
Author website: http://www.cchunterbooks.com/
Reviewer: Sabrina Holland
Another urban fantasy type story where a girl is seeing visions and then is hauled off to a “special” camp where she discovers (surprise!) that she is not fully human. All the teens around her, including several boys who like her (surprise again--So weird how that happens!), are some form of werewolf, vampire, witch, fairy etc…The writing is okay, nothing exceptional, but this plotline has been rehashed too many times recently in YA lit.
Author website: http://www.cchunterbooks.com/
Reviewer: Sabrina Holland
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (Young Reader’s Edition), by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
*adapted from a NYT bestselling memoir, a documentary by the author’s nonprofit organization “Moving Windmills” (http://www.movingwindmills.org/documentary)*
Core themes: perseverance, engineering, electricity, education, Africa, poverty, agriculture and environmental concerns
Drugs/alcohol: some drinking by those who are destitute and hopeless, but none by William
Religion/occult: “Magic” is described as what influences African people who have not learned about science. When drought or disaster hits, some people turn to magic in futile attempts to solve their problems. William’s family is Presbyterian, though his faith is not a major theme in the book.
Romance/sexuality: none
Violence/abuse: The book describes the effects of a severe drought and famine in Malawi, including people who die of starvation and illness and also his dog, which he must leave to die in the jungle. He also mentions friends at a later school (open to Africans from many nations) who were survivors of war. The descriptions are not graphic and are authentic, but they may be disturbing to a young and sensitive reader.
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: This book is adapted for middle grade readers from the original The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind. Even so, there are detailed descriptions of the engineering and electrical work William did. It is truly an inspiring story of a young boy who scored miserably on his school exams and was forced by poverty to drop out of school. He then taught himself physics from a book in the library (along with English to read the text) so that he could build a windmill out of scraps found in his village, along with a few essential items purchased by a loyal friend. I think this book could be an excellent choice for a boy interested in the story but without quite the skills to tackle the original book, if he could be persuaded to get past the “Young Reader’s Edition” on the cover.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://williamkamkwamba.typepad.com/williamkamkwamba/
Reviewer: Jill Papsdorf
*adapted from a NYT bestselling memoir, a documentary by the author’s nonprofit organization “Moving Windmills” (http://www.movingwindmills.org/documentary)*
Core themes: perseverance, engineering, electricity, education, Africa, poverty, agriculture and environmental concerns
Drugs/alcohol: some drinking by those who are destitute and hopeless, but none by William
Religion/occult: “Magic” is described as what influences African people who have not learned about science. When drought or disaster hits, some people turn to magic in futile attempts to solve their problems. William’s family is Presbyterian, though his faith is not a major theme in the book.
Romance/sexuality: none
Violence/abuse: The book describes the effects of a severe drought and famine in Malawi, including people who die of starvation and illness and also his dog, which he must leave to die in the jungle. He also mentions friends at a later school (open to Africans from many nations) who were survivors of war. The descriptions are not graphic and are authentic, but they may be disturbing to a young and sensitive reader.
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: This book is adapted for middle grade readers from the original The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind. Even so, there are detailed descriptions of the engineering and electrical work William did. It is truly an inspiring story of a young boy who scored miserably on his school exams and was forced by poverty to drop out of school. He then taught himself physics from a book in the library (along with English to read the text) so that he could build a windmill out of scraps found in his village, along with a few essential items purchased by a loyal friend. I think this book could be an excellent choice for a boy interested in the story but without quite the skills to tackle the original book, if he could be persuaded to get past the “Young Reader’s Edition” on the cover.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://williamkamkwamba.typepad.com/williamkamkwamba/
Reviewer: Jill Papsdorf
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Breathe, by Sarah Crossan (book 1 of 2)
*nominated for the Carnegie Medal 2014; shortlisted for the Coventry Inspiration Book Award (Read It Or Else) for best book for 11-14 year olds; nominated for the YALSA Best Fiction for YA; shortlisted for the Hounslow Teen Read Award*
In this post-apocalyptic novel, a corporation "saved" humanity by providing an enclosed city of air to breathe when the world's trees are decimated and the oxygen level drops too low outside of the bubble. The premise is a little far-fetched, but the idea of commercializing something everyone should have as a right is a good one to discuss with young adults, as is the inevitable class distinctions that arise in such a situation.
Drifters wandering outside the dome, using solar powered oxygen producers, often steal, attack others, and generally behave badly. There are scenes of civil unrest in which unarmed protesters are shot, essentially in cold blood, by soldiers or those in high positions. There is an attack on a stronghold outside the dome (where revolutionaries were attempting to nurture gardens and trees) in which many people are killed and the trees are burnt. Some of the characters hold hands, hug, and kiss.
Author website: http://www.sarahcrossan.com/
Reviewer: Jill Papsdorf
*nominated for the Carnegie Medal 2014; shortlisted for the Coventry Inspiration Book Award (Read It Or Else) for best book for 11-14 year olds; nominated for the YALSA Best Fiction for YA; shortlisted for the Hounslow Teen Read Award*
In this post-apocalyptic novel, a corporation "saved" humanity by providing an enclosed city of air to breathe when the world's trees are decimated and the oxygen level drops too low outside of the bubble. The premise is a little far-fetched, but the idea of commercializing something everyone should have as a right is a good one to discuss with young adults, as is the inevitable class distinctions that arise in such a situation.
Drifters wandering outside the dome, using solar powered oxygen producers, often steal, attack others, and generally behave badly. There are scenes of civil unrest in which unarmed protesters are shot, essentially in cold blood, by soldiers or those in high positions. There is an attack on a stronghold outside the dome (where revolutionaries were attempting to nurture gardens and trees) in which many people are killed and the trees are burnt. Some of the characters hold hands, hug, and kiss.
Author website: http://www.sarahcrossan.com/
Reviewer: Jill Papsdorf
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Burning for Revenge, by John Marsden (Tomorrow series, book 5)
*Notable Book, CBCA Children's Book of the Year Award: Older Readers 1998, Winner, Bookdata/Australian Booksellers Association Book of the Year Award 1997, Winner, WAYRBA (West Australian Young Readers' Books Award) 1999*
Core themes: war; friendship; courage; discerning romantic feelings and girls feeling pressure from boys to be physically involved; revenge
Drugs/alcohol: none
Religion/occult: Ellie seems to believe in God and occasionally prays but usually only when they are in dangerous situations. She often wishes for the faith her friend had.
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 5
Violence/abuse: Ellie and her friends are in a war zone and frequently engage in violent skirmishes with the enemy, including explosions with graphic injuries and shooting soldiers at close quarters.
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Please see the comments for the earlier books in the series, as they apply to this book as well.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.johnmarsden.com.au/
Reviewer: Jill Papsdorf
*Notable Book, CBCA Children's Book of the Year Award: Older Readers 1998, Winner, Bookdata/Australian Booksellers Association Book of the Year Award 1997, Winner, WAYRBA (West Australian Young Readers' Books Award) 1999*
Core themes: war; friendship; courage; discerning romantic feelings and girls feeling pressure from boys to be physically involved; revenge
Drugs/alcohol: none
Religion/occult: Ellie seems to believe in God and occasionally prays but usually only when they are in dangerous situations. She often wishes for the faith her friend had.
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 5
Violence/abuse: Ellie and her friends are in a war zone and frequently engage in violent skirmishes with the enemy, including explosions with graphic injuries and shooting soldiers at close quarters.
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Please see the comments for the earlier books in the series, as they apply to this book as well.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.johnmarsden.com.au/
Reviewer: Jill Papsdorf
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Butter, by Erin Jade Lange
Core themes: taking responsibility for yourself; coping with the dangers and agonies of extreme obesity; healthy vs. non-healthy ways of trying to take control of one's life; learning to love and value life, even when it's disappointing; what we do with our lives affects others; the dangers of enabling someone to do destructive things out of a misguided desire to help (such Butter's mother giving him calorie-rich foods to comfort him); learning to see the opportunities and help right in front of us; the meaning of true friendship
Drugs/alcohol: frequent teen drinking and drunkenness; some mild adult drinking in a bar; Butter intends to use vodka as a backup plan if eating himself to death doesn't work; teens plan what drugs they'll do at an upcoming party
Religion/occult: one brief reflection on heaven and hell; Butter occasionally muses that he probably faces hell if he commits suicide
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2
Violence/abuse: novel's focus revolves around protagonist's tentative plan to eat himself to death on New Year's Eve live on the internet; bullies attack Butter behind a restaurant and force him to eat a stick of butter
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4--frequent
Other content of concern: teens gamble on various things, including whether Butter will really follow through with his suicide plans.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: I began this book fully intending to dislike it--and yes, I mean "intending," because I thought that the book was part of "sick-lit." This is a subgenre that focuses on morbid subjects, which I generally dislike. Yet, as I followed Butter's story, I found myself completely engrossed in a moving, richly-themed novel that revolves around the agonies only the extremely obese understand. Yes, the writing was edgy and full of teen behavior I would not want to promote in recommending the book, but Butter's voice is so real and his struggles so painful that I closed the novel thinking that I had not wasted a moment of my time on this painful but powerful novel. It's a novel of struggle, the finality of death and the value of life, of learning what a true friend is, and of choosing to make the most of life when it's so much easier to choose despair. As morbid and edgy as Butter is, it is ultimately a story of triumph and hope, and I can't help but recommend it to anyone who would find its themes meaningful.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author's website: http://erinlange.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
Core themes: taking responsibility for yourself; coping with the dangers and agonies of extreme obesity; healthy vs. non-healthy ways of trying to take control of one's life; learning to love and value life, even when it's disappointing; what we do with our lives affects others; the dangers of enabling someone to do destructive things out of a misguided desire to help (such Butter's mother giving him calorie-rich foods to comfort him); learning to see the opportunities and help right in front of us; the meaning of true friendship
Drugs/alcohol: frequent teen drinking and drunkenness; some mild adult drinking in a bar; Butter intends to use vodka as a backup plan if eating himself to death doesn't work; teens plan what drugs they'll do at an upcoming party
Religion/occult: one brief reflection on heaven and hell; Butter occasionally muses that he probably faces hell if he commits suicide
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2
Violence/abuse: novel's focus revolves around protagonist's tentative plan to eat himself to death on New Year's Eve live on the internet; bullies attack Butter behind a restaurant and force him to eat a stick of butter
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4--frequent
Other content of concern: teens gamble on various things, including whether Butter will really follow through with his suicide plans.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: I began this book fully intending to dislike it--and yes, I mean "intending," because I thought that the book was part of "sick-lit." This is a subgenre that focuses on morbid subjects, which I generally dislike. Yet, as I followed Butter's story, I found myself completely engrossed in a moving, richly-themed novel that revolves around the agonies only the extremely obese understand. Yes, the writing was edgy and full of teen behavior I would not want to promote in recommending the book, but Butter's voice is so real and his struggles so painful that I closed the novel thinking that I had not wasted a moment of my time on this painful but powerful novel. It's a novel of struggle, the finality of death and the value of life, of learning what a true friend is, and of choosing to make the most of life when it's so much easier to choose despair. As morbid and edgy as Butter is, it is ultimately a story of triumph and hope, and I can't help but recommend it to anyone who would find its themes meaningful.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author's website: http://erinlange.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
The Butterfly Clues, by Kate Ellison
Core themes: different ways people cope with grief; teen relationships; social injustice/justice
Drugs/alcohol: multiple references to drug use among teens and adults (heroin, meth, marijuana), adult drinking
Religion/occult: none
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 4
Violence/abuse: plot centers around the murder of a girl who has been assaulted, raped and then shot in the head; several other semi-graphic details of another murder; a bloody dead cat; a bloody live cat; a decayed corpse; protagonist attacked twice and almost choked to death and shot.
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 -- (frequent #3 and #7)
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Although this is a murder mystery, at the core it is the story of a girl trying to cope with the loss of her brother. Her main coping mechanism is an obsessive-compulsive disorder that consists of tapping in multiples of three, repeating things in three’s, and stealing from stores or people (hoarding and rearranging in her room). This is probably the one redeeming quality of the story – it gives an insight into what it is like to have that type of compulsion, how debilitating it can be, and what it is like to try to have a relationship with a person suffering from OCD. I found the rest of the story to be quite dull, predictable, and at times containing inappropriate content for a teen audience.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author's Official Website: http://kateellison.com/
Reviewer: Sabrina Holland
Core themes: different ways people cope with grief; teen relationships; social injustice/justice
Drugs/alcohol: multiple references to drug use among teens and adults (heroin, meth, marijuana), adult drinking
Religion/occult: none
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 4
Violence/abuse: plot centers around the murder of a girl who has been assaulted, raped and then shot in the head; several other semi-graphic details of another murder; a bloody dead cat; a bloody live cat; a decayed corpse; protagonist attacked twice and almost choked to death and shot.
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 -- (frequent #3 and #7)
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Although this is a murder mystery, at the core it is the story of a girl trying to cope with the loss of her brother. Her main coping mechanism is an obsessive-compulsive disorder that consists of tapping in multiples of three, repeating things in three’s, and stealing from stores or people (hoarding and rearranging in her room). This is probably the one redeeming quality of the story – it gives an insight into what it is like to have that type of compulsion, how debilitating it can be, and what it is like to try to have a relationship with a person suffering from OCD. I found the rest of the story to be quite dull, predictable, and at times containing inappropriate content for a teen audience.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author's Official Website: http://kateellison.com/
Reviewer: Sabrina Holland
The Button War, Avi
*CLA/NCTE Notable Children's Books in the Language Arts*
Why this book is worth considering:
One of my criterion for reviewing books on What's In It is that the protagonist (or at least one of them, if there are several) must be at least 13 years old or in 7th grade. I'm breaking my rule for this novel because of its unusually mature content for a middle-grade novel. If you have ever read an adult novel with a child protagonist, such as A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, this is a juvenile counterpart. The protagonist is only 12, but the tale is appropriate for teens--more appropriate than for children, in fact (at least in my opinion). Set at the beginning of the First World War in a small Polish village, the story centers on Patryk and his small group of friends. They begin a contest to see who can gather the most interesting buttons and become the "button king." Although this begins as a light game and may seem like a silly premise for a novel, the game quickly becomes deadly serious as the boys entangle with German and Russian soldiers and discover the darkest sides of themselves. Because of that, the themes and storyline are meaningful and thought-provoking for all teens.
There is no swearing or romance in this novel, and it is a very short, easy read, while still managing to be mature enough to be meaningful for older readers. For that reason, it is an excellent choice for struggling teen readers, and it is also an excellent choice for parents and teachers who want to boost their history or philosophy lessons with a novel that can be read in a couple of days.
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
I highly respect Avi as an author and would like to read more of his work, but I am honestly surprised at the paradox at the heart of this novel. The writing style is extremely simple and spare, akin to Hemingway but with a more juvenile vocabulary. In fact, for me it was too simple. I wanted more vivid description, more dialogue, and just...more. Middle-grade readers will be able to read it without any trouble and may find the level of detail sufficient.
At the same time, the story is about war, and Avi doesn't spare his young readers its harsh realities. The novel contains several instances of graphic, bloody violence, including the deaths of three or four children. For this reason parents and teachers should be very careful to review the book before offering it to a child of any age, and they may want to read and discuss the book with the child. The language and brevity are deceptive! This doesn't mean some children cannot handle or appreciate it; however, it may easily disturb young readers who are not yet ready for the realities of graphic war violence.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens/ all teens/ no teens.
Author website: https://www.avi-writer.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*CLA/NCTE Notable Children's Books in the Language Arts*
Why this book is worth considering:
One of my criterion for reviewing books on What's In It is that the protagonist (or at least one of them, if there are several) must be at least 13 years old or in 7th grade. I'm breaking my rule for this novel because of its unusually mature content for a middle-grade novel. If you have ever read an adult novel with a child protagonist, such as A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, this is a juvenile counterpart. The protagonist is only 12, but the tale is appropriate for teens--more appropriate than for children, in fact (at least in my opinion). Set at the beginning of the First World War in a small Polish village, the story centers on Patryk and his small group of friends. They begin a contest to see who can gather the most interesting buttons and become the "button king." Although this begins as a light game and may seem like a silly premise for a novel, the game quickly becomes deadly serious as the boys entangle with German and Russian soldiers and discover the darkest sides of themselves. Because of that, the themes and storyline are meaningful and thought-provoking for all teens.
There is no swearing or romance in this novel, and it is a very short, easy read, while still managing to be mature enough to be meaningful for older readers. For that reason, it is an excellent choice for struggling teen readers, and it is also an excellent choice for parents and teachers who want to boost their history or philosophy lessons with a novel that can be read in a couple of days.
Why this book may not be right for your teens:
I highly respect Avi as an author and would like to read more of his work, but I am honestly surprised at the paradox at the heart of this novel. The writing style is extremely simple and spare, akin to Hemingway but with a more juvenile vocabulary. In fact, for me it was too simple. I wanted more vivid description, more dialogue, and just...more. Middle-grade readers will be able to read it without any trouble and may find the level of detail sufficient.
At the same time, the story is about war, and Avi doesn't spare his young readers its harsh realities. The novel contains several instances of graphic, bloody violence, including the deaths of three or four children. For this reason parents and teachers should be very careful to review the book before offering it to a child of any age, and they may want to read and discuss the book with the child. The language and brevity are deceptive! This doesn't mean some children cannot handle or appreciate it; however, it may easily disturb young readers who are not yet ready for the realities of graphic war violence.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens/ older teens/ all teens/ no teens.
Author website: https://www.avi-writer.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
