Copper Sun

Draper, Sharon. Copper Sun. Atheneum Books for Young Readers: 2006. ISBN: 9780689821813.

Plot Summary:
Amari lives a happy life with her family in an African village and is looking forward to marrying Besa to whom she is betrothed. White visitors arrive and the village plans a celebration with singing, dancing and storytelling. Abruptly the white visitors begin shooting people and dragging others away. Amari witnesses her parents being shot and killed. Amari and Kwasi, her eight-year-old brother run into the jungle to escape, but Kwasi is also shot and killed. Dragged away and marched to the coast Armari is shackled and housed with many other Africans. Unsure of what is happening and stripped of her clothing, Amari and the other Africans are boarded onto a ship. The men are stacked in rows three high with barely 6 inches of headroom. The women are given similar accommodations, but are not stacked in rows. The sailors help themselves to the women and girls, not caring who they hurt. Amari wishes to die, but her journey is only beginning.

Critical Evaluation:
This is not a happy book. Sharon Draper's unflinching, well researched account of one slave girl's experience from being captured in her African village to a satisfying ending is a book every teen should read and study in school. The depths of human depravity are usually taught with Hitler and the extermination of the Jews. We as Americans have our own inhumanity to account for. The contrast between Amari's life in the African village and life once the slave traders enter the picture is stark. The characters are vivid and well formed. Just when you don't expect it, a character acts kindly proving all of humanity is not lost. But, Amari needs more than random kindness. One of the great lessons of this book is the triumph of the human spirit. No one should ever go through the horror and degradation the slaves went through. Books like Copper Sun, educate new generations so that history does not repeat itself.

Reader's Annotation:
Amari is captured and forced into slavery in a foreign land. Will her spirit survive?

Information About the Author:
Sharon Draper normally writes contemporary stories about teens. Copper Sun is a departure from her normal work. As a descendant of slaves, this novel was very important to her. A trip to Ghana provided Sharon with the idea for the book. After visiting a slave castle, she felt compelled to tell the story of people who were housed there. Copper Son received the Coretta Scott King award among others and was on the New York Times Bestseller List. Sharon Draper spent thirty-six years as an English teacher and in 1997 was named teacher of the year by President Bill Clinton.

Genre:
Historical Fiction/Slavery

Curriculum Ties:
Slavery
Economics of the South


Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
None

Why Book Included:
It is important for both genders to be represented in history.

Empress of the World

Ryan, Sara. Empress of the World. Speak: 2001. ISBN: 0142500593.

Plot Summary:
Nicola Lancaster is spending her summer at the Siegel Institute, a summer educational experience for gifted students. She makes friends quickly with Battle, Katrina, Isaac and Kevin. This is unusual for Nicola, she doesn't make friends easily. The new friends don't share classes, but become tight and hang around with each other. Nicola begins to feel uncomfortable and self conscious around Battle and thinks Battle feels the same way. Each has sort of had boyfriends before, but sense an attraction to the other. The girls act on their feelings and explore the relationship. Most people at the Institute don't say anything, but a few jerks in Nicola's archeology class call her names. The relationship scares Battle and she acts out in an extremely hurtful way.

Critical Evaluation:
Empress of the World has won numerous awards and was included on several Best Book List. It is a sensitive exploration of friendship that turns into romance. The book is not delineated by chapters, it simply has part one and part two. This lends continuity to the narrative. Ultimately the book is about relationships, touching on parents, friends and romance. Teens struggle with relationships on a day to day basis. Sara Ryan discusses the issues in frank and honest turns without preaching. Most of the teens have a tenuous relationship with their parents, sometimes issues with friends at home and explore romance at the Institute. The scene where cutting Battle's hair takes place is moving on several levels. First, the girls are able to physical put actions to their feelings in a fun way. Second, the statement Battle makes is less about self expression, instead it is primarily about asserting her independence. Nic and Battle's relationship is tricky like most romantic relationships. This sheds light on the fact that it doesn't matter what gender is involved, when your heart is concerned it can be difficult and sometimes hurtful.

Reader's Annotation:
If you are nervous and unsure in a romantic encounter, chances are the other person is too.

Information About the Author:
Sara Ryan was born in Ohio the daughter of two librarians. These days Sara is a writer and a librarian in the Portland Oregon area. Her Bachelors Degree is in Medieval Studies and she holds a Masters of Library Science and is currently working for Multnomah County Library System. Sara writes comics and has published a sequel to Empress of the World called The Rule for Hearts.

Genre:
Issue Novel/Sexual Identity

Curriculum Ties:
Sexuality
Relationships


Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
Homosexuality
Bisexuality

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
It was listed on an ALA Best Book List.

Purple Heart

McCormick, Patricia. Purple Heart. Balzer + Bray: 2009. ISBN: 9780061730900.

Plot Summary:
Private Matt Duffy awakens to pokes on his feet and the realization that he is laying in a hospital bed. Less than a year ago Matt's biggest concern was a test at high school or some trivial issue with his girlfriend. Life is now very serious and much bigger than Private Matt Duffy anticipated. Stationed in Iraq, Private Duffy is unclear on how he got to the hospital and exactly what is wrong with him. The last thing he remembers is being out on patrol with his buddy, Justin. As time goes on Private Duffy learns he has TBI, Traumatic Brain Injury. A serious injury, but not serious enough to send him to Germany where the critical patients go. It is also not serious enough to keep him from returning to his unit after some rest. As Private Duffy lays in his hospital bed, bits and pieces of his memory begin to return, but they don't make sense or explain how he got hurt. Private Duffy's trust and innocence in his buddies is challenged and questioned as the story unfolds.

Critical Evaluation:
We need more books like this in the body of today's YA literature. This book reflects the situation too many young men and women are unprepared for in today's political climate. Students join the military straight out of high school for many reasons. Some seek adventure, travel, proving themselves, or money for college. They don't understand that many of them end up enforcing government policy in a war where the rules are unclear and ever changing. Private Matt Duffy is tough, but the reality of the, "sick shit," that he sometimes is involved in weighs on him very heavily. Patricia McCormick has written an honest, unflinching novel that doesn't hide Private Duffy's experience, or exaggerate it. The book bears a dedication in memory of five servicemen, the assumption is that they were killed in Iraq. This dedication lends gravity and reality to the story before one page is read.

Reader's Annotation: This is war, people die and sometimes you are the one that kills them.

Information About the Author:
Patricia McCormick lives in New York with her family and two cats. The author has a journalistic background and has written for numerous magazines. She holds a Master's of Science in Journalism and a Masters of Fine Arts. With this background Patricia has taught journalism classes at Columbia University's School of Journalism and creative writing classes at New School University. Sold, also by Patricia McCormick was a National Book Award finalist in 2007.

Genre:
Issue Novel/Death and Deadly Disease

Curriculum Ties:
War in Iraq
Army
Traumatic Brain Injury


Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
War
Language

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
Since my son joined the Marine Corp two years I have been reading more books about the military. I am glad this topic is being addressed in young adult fiction.

Princess of the Midnight Ball

George, Jessica Day. Princess of the Midnight Ball. Bloomsbury: 2009. ISBN: 9781599903224.

Plot Summary:
Galen Werner is walking home after the long war with Analousia. The war has claimed both his mother, who travel with the army doing laundry and his soldier father. Galen saw his share of action and is returning in one piece physically. As his journey proceeds, Galen stops to help an old woman on the side of the road and shares his dwindling provisions. To show her gratitude, the old woman gives Galen an invisibility cloak that is only to be used in times of real need. The old woman also gives Galen a white ball of yarn and a smaller black ball of yarn with the admonition that,"One can bind the other protect. Black like iron, white like a swan." Galen thanks her and continues on his way unsure of her sanity. The only family Galen has left is his Aunt and Uncle. They welcome him with open arms and he begins working at the castle with his uncle. It is here that Galen meets the princesses and becomes involved in their troubles and vows to help them. Maybe that old woman was not so crazy after all.

Critical Evaluation:
Princess of the Midnight Ball is the author's rendition of a fairy tale, Twelve Dancing Princesses. The author is able to maintain the fairy tale feel to the story with elements of magic and good versus evil. The theme of a commoner being dismissed, overlooked and certainly not worthy of a royal princess is common plot device. By giving us Galen's history first the reader roots for him and knows he is the man for the job. The romantic elements are not sappy or over-the-top. There is a serious tone around the twelve princesses which gives them a levity not always associated with royal birth. Life has been serious for these girls without a mother and the victims of her folly. The book doesn't really explore in detail why the mother made the pact that causes the curse. We know she was desperate for children and the end of the war, but that is all.

Reader's Annotation:
Dancing is fun in moderation. But remember, you can have too much of a good thing.

Author's Information:
Jessica Day George always wanted to be a writer, she knew someday she would be published. A graduate of Brigham Young University with a degree in Humanities/Comparative Literature, Jessica and her family currently life in Utah. The mother of two small children, Jessica writes when she can and just finished the rough draft to Princess of Glass, the sequel to Princess of the Midnight Ball.

Genre:
Fantasy/Classic Fantasy

Curriculum Ties:
Fairy Tales
Political Power of Catholic Church in History

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
None

Why Book Included:
My sixteen year old daughter said this was a must read. She gives really great Readers Advisory!

Hattie Big Sky

Larson, Kirby. Hattie Big Sky. Delacorte Press: 2006. ISBN: 9780440239413.

Plot Summary:
Orphan, Hattie Inez Brooks has spent most of her life being shuffled between relatives. Her most recent home is with Aunt Ivy and Uncle Holt. Aunt Ivy is almost impossible to please, always unhappy with Hattie. The night Uncle Holt hands Hattie the letter from Montana her life changes. Her mother's brother has passed away and left his claim of 320 Montana acres to Hattie. She has a year to meet the remaining requirements to legally keep the claim. The thought of a sixteen year old proving a claim on her own is ridiculous to Aunt Ivy, but Hattie is not afraid of hard work and longs for a home to call her own. Hattie takes the train to Montana and is meet by Perilee Johnson and her family. The Johnsons are the closest neighbors to the claim and were friends of Hattie's uncle. After the Johnsons drop Hattie off at her new home she feels the depth of the responsibility that she has taken on and begins a life changing journey towards independence and inner peace.

Critical Evaluation:
Hattie Big Sky is a Newbery Honor Book for 2007. This excellent work of historical fiction relates the hardship and joys of pioneer life in 1914. The author has thrown in a few crumbs of romance, but they do not dominate the story or take the reader's attention away from Hattie's quest to prove the claim. The ending is believable and satisfying, although it is not neatly packaged like a lot of happy endings. The story is loosely based on Kirby Larson's great grandmother who is also named Hattie Inez and homesteaded on her own as a young woman. Kirby researched and dug around old courthouses but was not able to get a clear picture of specific events in her great grandmother's life. Hattie Big Sky is her recreation based on what little facts are known. This novel received a starred review from School Library Journal and made their best books of the year list.

Reader's Annotation:
Always try your best. Even if it doesn't work out, you can still hold your head high.

Author's Information:
Kirby Larsen has two more historical fiction novels coming out soon. Her other writing credits include two non-fiction picture books in collaboration with good friend, Mary Nethery. The official website states that a sequel is forthcoming to Hattie Big Sky, but no date was given.
Kirby was born in Washington state in 1954 and still lives there with her husband and dog, Winston. She has two adult children.

Genre:
Historical Fiction/20th Century: The Early Years

Curriculum Ties:
Homesteading
WWI

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
None

Why Book Included:
This book has received a lot of praise and my sixteen year old daughter said this was a must read.

Blue Bloods

De La Cruz, Melissa. Blue Bloods. Hyperion Paperbacks: 2006. ISBN: 9781423101260.

Plot Summary:
Schuyler Van Alen attends the exclusive Duchesne Private School in New York City. Her classmates are the offspring of the social, political and wealthy elite. Schuyler really doesn't fit in. She lives in a mansion with her grandma that has seen better days and shops for her vintage clothes second hand. Every Sunday since Schuyler was a little girl she goes to the hospital downtown to visit her mother who is in a coma. Sometimes an unfamiliar man is sitting next to her bed, but when Schuyler enters he is gone. Strange things begin happening when Schuyler turns fifteen. The veins on her arms become bright blue and she craves raw meat. Jack Force the most popular boy at school begins to pay her lots of attention which upsets her best friend, Oliver Hazard-Perry. Schuyler witness Jack getting hit by a car, standing up and walking away without a scratch. The same night a popular Duchesne student is murdered and has no blood left in her body.

Critical Evaluation:
Suspense and intrigue immediately grab the reader in this well written vampire novel. The appeal of wealthy teens who get and do anything they want, life in a big city and vampires, this novel is part Clique Series, part romance and a healthy dose of the paranormal. The author peeks our interest by interspersing letters written by a teen on board the Mayflower in 1620 and implying they are relevant to the present. Written in third person, the teens may be rich and elite, but the same social situations and missteps occur.

Reader's Annotation:
Growing up is never easy either as a human or a vampire.

Author's Information:
Melissa De La Cruz is a graduate of Columbia University with a degree in art history and English. Her work has appeared in many magazines which include: Marie Claire, Harper's Bazaar, and Teen Vogue. Best know for her Au Pair Series, Melissa has many novels to her credit. Blue Bloods is an ALA Quick Pick. Melissa divides her time between New York and Los Angeles where she lives with her husband and daughter.

Genre:
Paranormal/Vampires

Curriculum Ties:
History of the Mayflower
Vampire Lore

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
None

Why Book Included:
I have never read a vampire book other than listening to Twilight with my daughter. The genre is so popular that my collection wouldn't be complete without one.

Speak

Anderson, Laurie Halse. Speak. Farrar, Straus, Giroux:1999. ISBN: 0374371520.

Plot Summary:
New freshman, Melinda Sordino is an outcast. Her old friends ignore her and mouth, 'I hate you," and the other students won't have anything to do with her. Kids call her names and talk ugly about her while she is standing right there. They all blame her. Over the summer the cops were called to a party and some students were charged with underage drinking. Melinda, drunk herself, made the 911 call. She made it home without incident with the police. Alone, afraid and falling deeper and deeper into herself, Melinda can't stop the inner spiral. The only class she can remotely keep up with is art. Last year she was an excellent student, her parents are frustrated and don't understand. No one understands, but then again, no one knows why.

Critical Evaluation:
Speak is divided into 4 sections based on the marking periods at school. Then further subdivided by headings that give a clue as to what the chapter holds. Written in first person, we hear Melinda's thoughts and impressions and want to reach out and help her. As important as this book is for teens to read and gain strength and understanding, high school teachers should read it as well. We see the effects that two different teachers have. Both are flawed and real people with issues, but, Mr. Freeman, cares about his students and notices something is wrong with Melinda. Another great convention of the author is she uses popular culture. The book refers to Oprah and illustrates a segment of her talk show. This anchors the story in reality. Rachel, Melinda's former best friend begins dating Andy Evans. Would Melinda have spoken up if Andy had been dating someone she didn't care about?

Reader's Annotation:
Sometimes our pain is so great that we can not speak for ourselves. Ultimately, we can only save ourselves.

Information About the Author:
This was Laurie Halse Anderson's first novel. It was a National Book Award winner and a 2000 Printz Honor Book, not bad for a first novel! Laurie already had a few picture books under her belt and continues to write occasionally in that format. Speak was made into a motion picture in 2004.
Laurie lives in upstate New York with her husband Scott and is the mother of four children. She enjoys training for marathons and hiking. In the future we can expect more wonderful YA from this fabulous author.

Genre: Issue Novels/Mental, Emotional and Behavioral Problems

Curriculum Ties:
Rape
Underage Drinking
Depression

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
Rape
Underage Drinking

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.


Why Book Included:
I like this author and this book has an important story to tell.

Defiant Heart

Bateman, Tracey. Defiant Heart. Avon Inspire: 2007. ISBN: 9780061246333.

Plot Summary:
Seventeen year old Fannie Caldwell has known her share of hard times. When she was fourteen her step-father sold Fannie and her nine year old twin siblings to Tom, an obese, mean shop owner in a small frontier town. The deal was fifty dollars for two years of indentured service. The two years has passed and Tom won't let the kids leave. After a third year, Fannie is determined to get away as her sister begins to physically mature and she catches Tom leering at her. During the summer months wagon trains stop outside of town to buy supplies and repair their wagons. Fannie has decided that they will be on the wagon train heading to Oregon. The wagon master, twenty-five year old Blake Tanner has a policy that doesn't allow unaccompanied females as part of this train. Undeterred Fannie, her siblings, and a prostitute from the local saloon begin following the wagon train until Blake relents and lets them join. Trouble seems to follow this bunch and soon Blake regrets his decision.

Critical Review:
Christian fiction follows a formula. People have a problem or issue and their faith in God is strengthen, renewed or realized by the end of the novel. Throw in some romance and a wedding and the setting and time frame doesn't matter. Tracey Bateman has written an interesting novel with well formed characters that manage to build a connection with the reader. If you take out the few bits of dogma about God and his love, the book reads just like a historical novel. Not all historical Christian fiction does that. Defiant Heart is the first in a series called Westward Hearts; a lot of the genre is written in series format. The author takes time telling the story without giving too much background. Immediately the reader is drawn in by the compelling situation of the Caldwell orphans. Tom, the villain is portrayed as physically disgusting as he is morally bankrupt. Of course, the stars of the show are all nice looking and worth redemption.

Reader's Annotation:
Determination and hard work can get you far, but sometimes we all need help from our fellow human beings. Allowing them to help is a gift for all.

Information About the Author:
Tracey Bateman is the mother of four kids with whom she lives in the Ozarks with her husband.
According to her website, Tracey has over one million books in print and also writes under a pen name, Tracey Cross. Her newest publication is Tandem, a vampire novel for the Christian market.

Genre:
Christian Fiction/Historical/Romance

Curriculum Ties:
Pioneers
Wagon Trains
Indentured Servants

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
Religion

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
I wanted to include all genres in the collection. My daughter knew how unhappy I was with The Peacemaker, so she wanted me to try another Christian Fiction novel that she liked.

The Peacemaker

Copeland, Lori. The Peacemaker. Tyndale Fiction: 2004. ISBN: 0842369309.

Plot Summary:
Wynne Elliott is on a mission. Nursing wounded pride and a heart full of revenge, she leaves her home in Georgia and heads out west alone to find Cass Claxton. It is not proper for a lady to travel alone, especially since the end of the Civil War. The roads are full of bandits and desperate people. Wynne is headstrong and bent on carrying through her revenge; shooting Cass on sight. Cass left Wynne standing at the altar and took all of her money. With no family left, she must take care of herself and recover the funds. Disaster it seems is still Wynne's companion. Her stagecoach is robbed and she loses the rest of her small means. Stranded, alone, and broke in a Missouri town all hope seems lost, has God forsaken Wynne because her heart is set on revenge?

Critical Evaluation:
The Peacemaker is the first in a series by Lori Copeland titled: Men of the Saddle. This book relies on stereotypes and a Calvinistic belief in God to appear to have a plot. The characters are not fully formed and much attention is made to their physical appearance. Sappy and contrived the thin plot is completely predictable with 'God' moving the plot along. There are some historical facts included in the book that spark a bit of interest, but this book has a very limited appeal. I am still trying to figure out how the title relates to the story. A few passages are a bit creepy, one example is, "There she'd stood in her bodice and white cotton bloomers, the crimson cloud of hair making her look even younger than her nineteen years. He'd never seen a woman look more vulnerable -or more attractive." This seems like an odd statement coming from a man who is thirty. This character is portrayed as an upright, God fearing man, and this recollection is presented as proof that he is falling for the innocent, needs-someone-to-take-care-of-her-girl. Another problem is the dialog is flat and repetitive. On page 201, "Cole hoped the storm would distract the outlaws." The next paragraph on page 202, "Cole kept his head down, hoping the approaching weather would distract the outlaws."

Reader's Annotation:
Revenge is not always sweet. Sometimes turning the other cheek is the best option.

Information About the Author:
Prolific author, Lori Copeland has been writing since 1982 and has 95 titles to her credit. Until 1995 Lori wrote romance novels. Feeling the pull to use her ability in God's service, she began writing Christian Fiction exclusively. She lives in the Ozarks with her husband, Lance and has 3 grown sons, a handful of grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Genre:
Christian Fiction/Historical/Romance

Curriculum Ties:
Post Civil War Era
Missouri's status during the war: slavery verses free

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
Religion

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
I needed a book from this genre so I just picked one off the shelf, big mistake.

Sold

McCormick, Patricia. Sold. Hyperion: 2006. ISBN: 9780786851713.

Plot Summary:
Lakshimi lives a life of terrible poverty in the mountains of Nepal. Her father died and her step-father does not provide for the family. The roof to their small hut desperately needs to be replaced. In the midst of this unhappy situation, Lakshimi finds love and contentment with her mother and baby brother. Her mother combs her hair each day and she has a goat as a pet. Girls are only valued if they can be of use to the family. An opportunity comes along for Lakshimi to work in the city. She is happy to help provide for the family. Lakshimi's step-father sells her to a fancy woman that takes her across the border into India and sells her to a woman named Mumtaz. Mumtaz who runs "Happiness House" which is anything but for Lakshimi.

Critical Evaluation:
Sold is told in free verse vignettes, with each vignette having a title. This tragic story of one girl sold into prostitution at a young age by her step-father is heartbreaking. All the more so because this is a thriving business and Lakshimi's tale is representative of hundreds and hundreds of girls. Patricia McCormick relays Lakshimi's pain and experiences without revealing specific details making the book more haunting as the reader's imagination fills in the omissions. The book is well research with the author traveling to India and Calcutta to interview women and girls who have been rescued from sex trafficking. Patricia McCormick brings attention to a subject that needs to be in the spotlight. This is a great novel to companion with curriculum concerning world history and contemporary issues at the high school level.

Reader's Annotation:
Not everyone places the same value on a human life. Some see dollar signs instead of humanity.

Information About the Author:
Patricia McCormick lives in New York with her family and two cats. The author has a journalistic background and has written for numerous magazines. She holds a Master's of Science in Journalism and a Masters of Fine Arts. With this background Patricia has taught journalism classes at Columbia University's School of Journalism and creative writing classes at New School University. Sold was a National Book Award finalist in 2007.

Genre:
Multicultural Fiction/Cultures Around the World/Alternative Formats

Curriculum Ties:
Sex Trafficking
India
Poverty


Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue
Prostitution

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
The book is an award winner and tells a story the world needs to hear.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Alexie, Sherman. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. Little Brown and Company: 2007. ISBN: 9780316013680.

Plot Summary:
Junior is a Native American living on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Problems are a way of life for Junior. Born with water on the brain, which has lead to many other issue, Junior is picked on and made fun of by his own people on a regular basis. His one true friend is Rowdy, who beats up anyone who makes fun of Junior. After a realization that no matter what he does, Junior will not be able to break the cycle of poverty and alcoholism that plagues the reservation unless he can escape soon. Junior begins attending the white school in town. Here, at least in the beginning, Junior is made fun of, but that's no different than the reservation. There are many obstacles for Junior to attend the white school. Many days he can't get a ride so he walks all or part of the twenty-two mile trip. Prejudice is a daily companion and he loses Rowdy as a friend. The support of his family is important, but disaster is usually close behind.

Critical Evaluation:
This book appeals to teens who have less than stellar living situations and who have negative experiences as school. At some point we have all felt like we don't' fit in or that we are worthless. It is hard to overcome such feelings without some type of support system. Even though Junior has statistics, his own people and a twenty-two mile trip against him, he perseveres toward a better future for himself. One of the best aspects about the book is the cartoons that Junior draws. The cartoons are his way to express how he feels and what he can't always say. Junior finds out that kids at the white school don't have perfect lives. They have issues, sometimes parents that don't care and expectations of what their lives are suppose to be. The human condition is universal, although some of us have more to overcome than others. Junior's voice is humorous and honest and easily believable.

Reader's Annotation:
The walls that surround racism and bigotry can be knocked down. It just takes one kick at a time.

Information About the Author:
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is based on real events in Sherman Alexie's youth. Like Junior in the story, he was born with water on the brain and expected to be mentally retarded if he survived surgery. Sherman also attended high school off the reservation and was the only Native American aside from the mascot. Born in 1966, Sherman is a prolific writer with many titles and awards to his name.

Genre:
Multicultural/Native Americans

Curriculum Ties:
Current condition of Native Americans
Prejudice

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issue:
Masturbation

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
A high school teacher gave such a glowing review I had to read it for myself!

Parrotfish

Wittlinger, Ellen. Parrotfish. Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers: 2007. ISBN: 9781416916222.

Plot Summary:
Angela is a sophomore in high school and makes the brave decision to be true to herself. Angela has always felt like a boy on the inside and conflicted in situations where girls and boys are grouped separately, not sure which group to align with. Angela cuts her hair, begins dressing like a boy and changes her name to Grady. The change is freeing and wonderful for Grady on the inside. He feels like his true self is emerging. Unfortunately, even the people that love Grady are struggling with his decision and trying to adjust to this new idea. Add in the culture and insecurity of high school and Grady's life is very tumultuous. Making friends and losing friends can be a normal high school experience, but in Grady's case it is more difficult because of the way society views gender.

Critical Evaluation:
Grady is one of the bravest protagonists in teen literature. He teaches us how to be our authentic selves without apology. The reader is privy to Grady's insecurities and reasons for his decision. Having this background build a connection with his character not just in the light of being transgendered, but as a human being. The book also includes a lot of references to popular culture, giving the story a realistic tone. Intertwining the story with Christmas and the family's outgrowing of traditions is a great parallel. Change is an important part of life that we all deal with in different ways. The novel asks a great question, why does gender have to be viewed in only two perspectives? How would society be different if there were other choices. Teens are interested in their world and seeking to understand their place in it. Novels like this are great signposts along the way.

Reader's Annotation:
Are you brave enough to let the world see who you really are? Are you brave enough to know who you really are?

Information About the Author:
Ellen Wittlinger was born in 1948 and is the only child of parents who owned a small grocery store in Illinois. Wanting to experience new things, Ellen moved to Ashford, Oregon after graduating from college and lived there until being accepted at the Iowa Writer's Workshop. Working as a children's librarian introduced Ellen to young adult novels. Her first novel was published in 1993, Lombardo's Law. Ellen has also written poetry and several plays.

Genre:
Issue Novel/Sexual Identity

Curriculum Ties:
Transgendered persons
Culture of high school
Family life and traditions

Booktalking Ideas:
Are you brave enough to step outside of social norms to be yourself?
Would you support a friend who 'came out'?

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issues:
Transgendered character
To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And, encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
Required for class, but I really liked it and will recommend it.

Little Brother

Doctorow, Cory. Little Brother. A Tom Doherty Associates Book: 2008. ISBN: 9780765323118.

Plot Summary:
In the blink of an eye the world can change. High school senior, Marcus Yallow, aka Winston, has his world turned upside down after being falsely arrested for supposed involvement in a terrorist plot that blew up the Bay Bridge in Oakland, California. After resisting for weeks Marcus can't take the torture and games any more and gives the Homeland Security agents the password to his cell phone. Finally released, Marcus finds that his city of San Fransisco mirrors a police state. The police are everywhere watching for terrorist around each corner, to the point regular citizens are treated guilty until proven innocent. Marcus is smart and tough. He has had enough and uses his available resources to launch his own counter attack against the unfair treatment of the government. With old and new friends at his side, Marcus shows the difference one person can make.

Critical Evaluation:
Cory Doctorow has written a fabulous book on many levels. The plot line is exciting and suspenseful, we want Marcus to be successful. As a protagonist, Marcus is able and willing, but not without his insecurities. While Marcus is dealing with fighting terrorism in the form of an over exuberant government agency, he is also dealing with teenage hormones and his first sexual experience. Dealing with the government, a girlfriend and lots of geeky computer stuff, there is something for almost everyone. The computer stuff is not so technical and over the top that it is inaccessible. The majority of teens should understand what is being talked about; adults, maybe not. The title is a great play off of the term, 'big brother'. We live in fear of this bigger brother, but in this story, the little brother rules!

Reader's Annotation:
Teen voices are important and needed. When the time is right will you lift your voice?

Information About the Author:
Canadian author, Cory Doctorow is best known for his opinions about copyright laws. Cory puts his beliefs into action. He has published several novels online for free downloading. His critics argue that you can't make money that way, but Cory has proved them wrong. Offering special editions is just one way Cory makes money on his free to download books. Cory stays busy blogging and writing the occasional article for The Guardian.

Genre:
Issue Novel/Activism

Curriculum Ties:
Terrorism
Our rights under the constitution
Homeland Security

Booktalking Ideas:
Marcus decides to take a stand for what he believes in and finds himself on the wrong side of the law. Is this right or wrong?
Do we have terrorism in this country?

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issues:
Teen Sex
Illegal Behavior

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
Required reading for class.

What I Saw and How I Lied

Blundell, Judy. What I Saw and How I Lied. Scholastic Press: 2008. ISBN: 9780439903462.

Plot Summary:
It is 1947, WWII is over and things are getting back to normal. Fifteen-year-old Evie lives in Queens, New York with her mother, step-father and step-grandmother. Her mother married Joe right before the war and they moved in with his mother, Grandma Gladys for the duration. Evie adores Joe, who in turn adores her movie star beautiful mother, Beverly. Out of the blue, Joe takes the family on a Florida vacation. The family stays in an almost deserted resort. It is the off-season and guests are sparse. Enter Peter, a dashing ex-G.I. from Joe's war days. Joe is not happy to see him, but Evie is smitten immediately. She enjoys outings with Peter and her mother. A fellow hotel guest takes her shopping and buys her glamorous adult clothing. Life in Florida is a dream for Evie, but the adults begin weaving webs that don't have a happy ending.

Critical Evaluation:
This is a well written mystery without being a typical whodunit. The author does a great job evoking the 1940's glamor and style. Women dress for dinner in evening gowns and smoke disinterestedly while having drinks at the bar. The negative aspects are starkly presented as well. Prejudice towards Jews to the point of kicking a couple out of the hotel after a 2 month stay because they don't serve Jews. The treatment of African Americans is also briefly alluded to. Evie is bright-eyed and plain compared to her beautiful mother. Forming a crush, she interprets Peter's attention as sexual interest, while Peter's interest is toward her mother, Beverly. The adults in this novel are not to be trusted. The plot twists and turns unexpectedly, yet it is believable. Evie is made of tougher stuff than even she is aware of.

Reader's Annotation:
Coming to terms with the adults in your life can be disappointing. You must always trust yourself.

Information About the Author:
Best know for winning the National Book Award for What I Saw and How I Lied, author Judy Blundell's books have been on the New York Times Bestseller's List and ALA lists. Many other titles have been written under an pseudonym, Jude Watson. Currently Judy lives in New York with her daughter and husband.

Genre:
Mystery/Historical/Suspense

Curriculum Ties:
Post WWII history
Prejudice in this country

Booktalking Ideas:
What would it be like to be eclipsed by your mother because she is so elegant and beautiful?
Does your relationship with your mother define who you are?

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issues:
None

Why Book Included:
The title and the book cover caught my eye.

The Things a Brother Knows

Reinhardt, Dana. The Things a Brother Knows. Wendy Lamb Books: 2010. ISBN: 9780375844553.

Plot Summary:
Levi Katznelson is part of a good Jewish family. Life is pretty normal with no surprises, until his older brother Boaz joins the Marine Corp after high school graduation instead of entering one of the Ivy League Schools that accepted him. This sends the Katznelson family into a tailspin, they are angry and don't understand why he made this decision. As expected, Boaz is sent into combat and the family anxiously awaits his return. The book begins as Boaz comes home from the Marine Corp, his enlistment is over. Levi is still angry with Boaz for going away, he worshiped his big brother and is struggling with ambivalence. Once home Boaz is clearly not the same. He stays in his room and rarely comes out for meals. His conversations are minimal and very brief. After awhile Boaz announces that he is going to hike the Appalachian Trail. Levi doesn't believe that this is really his plan and follows him. The remainder of the story revolves around this trip.

Critical Evaluation:
This book fills a need for today's teens who have to deal with family members returning from combat. The author does a great job of showing the helplessness a family feels at seeing their loved one come home a changed person. This is also a commentary on teens joining right out of high school. The oorah doesn't last long and the teens are not prepared to deal with the situations. Before Boaz left he wasn't old enough to buy a beer, but he could go out and kill someone. Levi's voice is strong. At first he is angry and doesn't have a position on the war until Boaz joins, it really doesn't impact his life. That is a common experience for many people. Levi has always wanted to be like Boaz, confident, strong, good with the girls. These feelings mixed with the confusion about Boaz's joining up and how he is acting now that he is back home, anchor the story and allow both characters to grow and learn.

Reader's Annotation:
Sometimes knowing what you don't believe in is more important than knowing what you do believe in.

Information About the Author:
Dana Reinhardt has written five young adult novels. The fifth, The Summer I Learned to Fly, will be available next year. The Things a Brother Knows has received starred reviews from Booklist, Kirkus, School Library Journal and Publishers Weekly.
Dana currently lives with her family in San Francisco, but is originally from Los Angeles. She enjoys taking walks in Golden Gate Park and spending time in LA in the summer. Unlike most authors, Dana only writes about 700 words a day.

Genre:
Issue Novel/Politics

Curriculum Ties:
War
Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome
Family

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issues:
There is some heavy petting and a bit of language.

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
My son joined the Marine Corps two years ago when he was twenty-one. The decision hit me like a mack truck. Thankfully so far his deployments have not included combat.

A Sally Lockhart Mystery: The Ruby in the Smoke

Pullman, Philip. A Sally Lockhart Mystery: The Ruby in the Smoke. Alfred A. Knopf: 1985. ISBN: 9780375845161.

Plot Summary:
Sally Lockhart, a pretty sixteen year old is grieved. Her father has been killed while on a sea voyage and she now completely alone in the world. A cryptic letter arrives telling Sally to beware of the Seven Blessings and to find Marchbanks in Chattum. Seeking answers Sally visits her father's shipping business to try and find out more about his death. While talking with one of her father's partners, Mr. Higgs, Sally mentions the Seven Blessings. Mr. Higgs immediately falls over dead from a heart attack. Not one to shy away from adventure, Sally embarks on an journey that changes her forever. This journey includes opium use, death and greed.

Critical Evaluation:
Sally is a modern girl in a Victorian world. Armed with self confidence and little else, Sally's determination to find the truth about her father's death makes her a great protagonist. Written in third person, we get to see the big picture and try to piece together the mystery. This book is part historical fiction and part Agatha Christie. The setting is bleak and unfamiliar and conjures up a wet, cold, uninviting picture of London in 1872. A Victorian girl should not be without a guardian, thankfully Sally finds refuge with a photographer, Frederick and his sister, Rosa. Frederick is basically a stranger who once offered Sally help escaping from harm. This plot turn is only believable because Sally is so independent and Frederick is so flaky, yet gallant. A compelling story with a satisfying ending; luckily this is only the first book in the series.

Reader's Annotation:
Somethings require hard work, but are they worth dying for? Only you can make that decision.

Information About the Author:
British author Philip Pullman is most well known for the prize winning trilogy, His Dark Materials. The Golden Compass, has been made into a major motion picture and a play. Born in 1946, his first published work was a children's book, Count Karlstein, in 1982.


Genre:
Mystery and Suspense/Historical Mysteries

Curriculum Ties:
19th Century History-London
Social status of women in the 19th century

Booktalking Ideas:
As a single, sixteen-year-old girl, would you be brave enough to investigate your father's death.
Can opium really help solve a crime?

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issues:
A sixteen-year-old girl willing smokes opium.

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
I saw the television version on Masterpiece and thought teens would like the story.

Getting the Girl

Zusak, Marcus. Getting the Girl. Scholastic Inc: 2004. ISBN: 043938950x.

Plot Summary:
Cameron Wolfe has a lot going on inside of his head. Nobody who knows him, even his family would guess that. Cameron feels like he lives in the shadow of his older brother, Rube. But, that's okay, Rube and Cameron are best friends. As different as black and white, the brothers share a bond with the neighbor's dog named Miffy. They walk her each night and make fun of her, but deep down, she is their pet and they love her. Rube is a ladies' man. He goes through girlfriends quickly. He hooks up with one, sleeps with them and after a few weeks loses interest and moves on. Cameron is appalled by his brother's behavior, especially when he meets Olivia. Olivia is a street musician and is nice to Cameron, unlike many of Rube's other girls. Predictably Rube and Olivia break up, then the unexpected happens.

Critical Evaluation:
This book does a great job contrasting the two brothers. They are starkly different, but they're family. As the story progress, they each learn important lessons from one another and are better for the experience. Growth can be painful and embarrassing, Marc Zusak handles the dialogue with warmth and care. Cameron, who no body believes has any interests writes stark and honest poetry. Other boys physically act out, like Rube, Cameron writes what he is feeling. Full of family dysfunction, the glimpse of the Wolfes is not unlike many families. They are not bad people, just human. Sometimes hurting each other and sometimes uplifting and standing by each other. Told in first person, we are privy to all of Cameron' thoughts. His voice is full of self doubt, vulnerability and teenage angst. Rube is portrayed as capable, confident and ready for anything. As the story unfolds Cameron learns that both portrayals are incorrect and makes peace with a more realistic version.

Reader's Annotation:
It's hard to live in someone else's shadow. Do yourself a favor and take a step into the light.

Information About the Author:
Award winning author, Markus Zusak was born in 1975, the youngest of four siblings. Born in Sydney, Australia, Markus currently lives there with his wife and daughter. His past times include surfing, playing on a soccer team that never wins and watching movies.
Markus' books have garnered praise from Australian awards to twice being named a Printz Honor Book. The Book Thief and The Messenger are the two titles recognized for the Printz Award. Mark has signed a movie deal for The Book Thief with a possibility of release in 2011. The next book due out is Bridge of Clay, sometime in 2011.

Genre:Contemporary Life/Romance

Curriculum Ties:
Writing Poetry
Self Expression

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issues:
None

Why Book Included:
I have heard really good things about this author.

Ghostgirl: Rest in Popularity

Hurley, Tonya. Ghostgirl: Rest in Popularity. Little Brown and Company: 2008. ISBN: 9780316113571

Plot Summary:
Charlotte Usher was going to have a better school year this year. She spent all summer working her 'Popular Plan' and now on the first day of school she was ready to 'rock it!' Charlotte was usually not noticed by her class mates, she felt invisible and unimportant. There was one class mate in particular that Charlotte wanted to notice her, Damen Dylan. As luck would have it, Damen was in her Physics class, but so was Petula, Damen's girlfriend. So far her plan was working, at least a bit, and Damen was just assigned as her lab partner. Ecstatic, Charlotte pops a gummy bear into her mouth as the bell rings and the students migrate into the hall to change classes. Suddenly the gummy bear lodges in Charlotte's throat and the course of the school year and much more changes. These new changes are not welcome to Charlotte. Accepting who we are and how to deal with unforeseen situations is what life and possibly in Charlotte's case, death is about.

Critical Evaluation:
The first book in a small series, Ghostgirl: Rest in Peace sets the stage for further paranormal adventures with Charlotte at Hawthorne High School. Her characters including the ghosts journey through self awareness and respect as the plot unfolds. An interesting aspect to this story is the convention that the ghosts go to high school in the same building as the living. They eat lunch in the cafeteria at the same time and follow the same class schedule with the bells. Charlotte's journey from invisibility to self esteem is not diminished in any way because she isn't among the living. The physical book is long and rectangular, not unlike a coffin. Each chapter begins with a silhouette, a poem and a brief didactic paragraph about Charlotte and her issues.

Reader's Annotation:
Charlotte is dying to be popular. Will she get her wish?

Information About the Author:
Tonya Hurley is the multi-talented author of the Ghostgirl series, creator, writer and producer of animated and live action television series, Mary Kate and Ashley in action; writer and director of independent films; writer and director of commercials for Playstation, Gameboy and Warner Home Video; and creator of videogames. She currently resides in New York City with her husband and daughter.

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Curriculum Ties:
Relationships
Self-esteem

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issues:
None

Why Book Included:
The black cover drew my attention.

Bamboo People

Perkins, Mitali. Bamboo People. Charlesbridge: 2010. ISBN: 9781580893282.

Plot Summary:
Chiko lives in a small home in a Burmese town with his mother. His father has been taken to prison for being a traitor to the government. In actuality, Chiko's father is a doctor and went out late at night to visit a sick patient. As with most of the population, Chiko and his mother live in fear of reprisal from the government. An advertisement appears in the paper asking for teachers. Chiko dreams of being a teacher, his father taught him how to read. Hoping to earn some money for his family, Chiko goes to the government building to be a teacher. Sadly, it is a trap to get more soldiers for the Burmese army. Chiko is upset, disoriented and taken far from home. Becoming a soldier is the hardest thing he has ever done. But, if his father can carry on in prison, then he can become a soldier and try to find his father.

Critical Evaluation:
Bamboo People, a recent Junior Library Guild selection has an honest, vulnerable voice that cuts to the heart. Told in first person, we know what Chiko is thinking and can see trouble coming. The author does a great job helping us understand what this experience is like for Chiko. The second half of the book is narrated by Tu Reh, a 16 year old Karenni, who's village was burned by Burmese soldiers. The path of the two boys cross giving the story more depth as enemies must learn to go beyond mistrust and prejudice. The end of the book gives a brief synopsis of the history of Burma and the on going civil war. This is a great advantage to readers who may not be familiar with the background of this country. Teens benefit from a wider world view and learning what life is like for kids their age in other parts of the world.

Reader's Annotation: Mind your own business and you will stay out of trouble. Beware, the result may be a slow death inside your heart.

Information About the Author:
Mitali Perkins was born in Calcutta, India and has lived many places including Ghana, Cameroon, London, New York, Mexico, and California. All of that was by the 7th grade! As an adult Mitali currently lives in Massachusetts.
Most of Mitali's books have featured a female protagonist. Bamboo People is the first to feature a boy and has received starred reviews from Publisher's Weekly and School Library Journal. Many of Mitali's books deal with straddling two cultures, a skill she learned growing up.

Genre:
Contemporary Life/Coming of Age

Curriculum Ties:
Civil War in Burma(Myanmar)
Child/Teen Soldiers
Being Drafted Against Your Will

Reading Level/Interest Age:
8th +

Challenge Issues:
None

Why Book Included:
I read the dust jacket and couldn't put it down.

Daisy Kutter: The Last Train

Kibuishi, Kazu. Daisy Kutter: The Last Train. Viper Comics: 2006. ISBN: 0975419323.

Plot Summary:
Daisy is a former gunslinger who has retired and opened a general store in a small western town. The store is not exactly profitable, but it is something to do. Tom, the town marshal, is important because he is Daisy's former partner in crime and otherwise. The relationship was broken off because Tom changed sides, he now works for the law. He gentle chides Daisy now and again encouraging her to to join him as an assistant. The idea is repulsive to Daisy, she has her own moral code. A rich gambler shows up in town asking to play a few rounds of poker with Daisy. Against Tom's advice she joins the game. Daisy's restlessness leads to recklessness as she gambles her store away. As it turns out, the gambler is interested in Daisy for more than a poker game. Daisy, eager for some action accepts the gambler's proposal which leads to unforeseen circumstances that change her life forever.

Critical Evaluation:
Drawn in black and white, this graphic novel is compelling as the story of a young woman dealing with her demons and trying to be true to herself. Daisy is a positive role model for a female in a graphic novel. Her talents and power have nothing to do with her looks or sexual identity. At the end of the story the author has included early sketches of Daisy and other characters. A really fun feature is the 'Pin-up Gallery, several illustrators have drawn their rendition of Daisy. The characters include a blend between old west and science fiction, with robots and mechanized weaponry. This type of convention is called steampunk and usually features Victorian styles with Orwellian technology.

Reader's Annotation: Your actions reflect who you are inside. Are you brave enough to live out loud?

Information About the Author:
Kazu Kibuishi was born in Japan and moved to the United States as a young child. He attended UC Santa Barbara and now lives in Alhambra, California. Kazu has received critical acclaim for the Flight Anthologies. This comic series is edited by Kazu Kibuishi and features new and up and coming artists. Daisy Kutter: The Last Train was named to the 2005 ALA Best Books for Young Adults list.

Genre:
Alternative Formats/Graphic Novel

Curriculum Ties:
A discussion of George Orwell, 1984 and their effects on literature.
Can a criminal reform and become a productive citizen?

Booktalking Ideas:
Daisy taking the risk of gambling her store and losing it in a poker game.
How do emotions effect our decisions?

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th+

Challenge Issues:
Violence

To be prepared for a book challenge you must read the book! And encourage all involved in the process to read the book, not just the questionable passages.
Make sure the institution's procedure is followed, this is a protection for all.
ALA provides written guidelines it would be handy to have a hard copy available.

Why Book Included:
I liked the idea of a comic book with a female protagonist that was not sexualized.

Meridian: Going to Ground

Kesel, Barbara. Meridian: Going to Ground. CrossGeneration Comics: 2001. ISBN: 1931484694.

Plot Summary: This book contains chapters 8 - 14 which is volume 2 of 4 in the Meridian Saga. Meridian is a sky city that is prosperous because of good leadership and profitable trade. Sephie's father was the minister until his recent death and the role of minister passed to Sephie. Sephie also has special powers that allow her to renew things. She cannot destroy anything at all, but her powers of renewal are phenomenal. Sephie is being hunted by her evil Uncle Ilahn who's special power is destruction on a magnificent level. Ilahn wants to take control of Meridian and all the sky cities to leave behind a great legacy. This is important because Ilahn has no children, he was in love with Sephie's mother before she died. He feels this legacy is the only way to be remembered. Unfortunately, Ilahn will destroy whomever and whatever gets in his way. Sephie must journey underground to find a way to save the sky cities.

Critical Evaluation:
This graphic novel is appealing to both girls and boys even though the main protagonist is female. The story is populated with a wide variety of characters both male and female. Both genders are portrayed as strong and powerful, able to affect change in their environment. The art in this book is beautiful. The artists take their time telling the story. Some pages are just one scene, while others are broken up into sequential boxes. The story line is engaging and exciting. The first page has a brief synopsis of volume 1, so this book could be a stand alone read. Although it is so interesting that it would be hard to stop at just this volume. The plot line is actually very simple and nothing new; good verses evil. The craft of the author and illustrators take this age old story line and make it fresh and unique for today's teens.

Readers Annotation:
Anyone one can make their presence known. Some do it for their own benefit, while others bring goodness to many.

Information About the Author:
Barbara Kesel, born in October of 1960, got her break in the comic book world by writing a 10 page letter to DC Comics commenting on the portrayal of women in their books. She has been a steady critic of this portrayal. Her own work seeks to show women in comic books fairly and not as a sex object.
The list of books authored and edited by Barbara is long and include some awards. In an interview on the website, 'The Seqential Tart', Barbara talks about not making a conscious decision to be a writer, it was just always what she knew she would do. Although, being a playwright was the plan, things have turned out pretty good.

Genre:
Alternative Format/Graphic Novel

Curriculum Ties:
Commerce and trade among nations
Portrayal of women and other characters in books

Booktalking Ideas:
What would it be like to find out you have a special power?
Could you handle the responsibility of running a country as a teen?

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th+

Challenge Issues:
None

Why Book Included:
I wanted to read a graphic novel and this sparked my interest.

Stormbreaker

Horowitz, Anthony. Stormbreaker. Philomel Books: 2000. ISBN: 0399236201.

Alex is woken in the middle of the night by a knock at the door. Good news never arrives at 3 a. m. Alex's Uncle Ian, with whom he lives has been killed in a car accident. The police report that Ian Rider was not wearing his seat belt and was hit by a truck. This immediately strikes Alex as odd because Uncle Ian had a particular fetish about wearing seat belts. Alex investigates on his own and finds out that his uncles car is not smashed from an accident, but is riddled with bullet holes. His uncle was murdered. Determined to find the truth, Alex goes to the bank where Uncle Ian worked to try and find out more. What he finds is hard to believe, but the puzzles pieces fit. Uncle Ian was a government spy and was killed because he discovered something important about the Stormbreakers, a new computer that a business man is donating to each and every student in England. This case is so important that the government decides to send in fourteen year old Alex Rider to finish his Uncle's job.

Critical Evaluation:
The book begins with Alex Rider as a typical fourteen year old, but quickly we see that he is anything but ordinary. Alex has been raised by his Uncle Ian, a spy for the English government. Ian is grooming Alex to take his place someday. This is almost beyond the realm of reality, but within this story it makes sense. Teens like to read stories about other teens who are powerful, not in a physical sense necessarily, but teens that can have an effect on the situations and people around them. It is similar to the idea of Harry Potter. A basically normal teen is put into extraordinary circumstances and prevails, thwarting evil along the way. Alex Rider doesn't use magic or the supernatural, but he has a level of expertise about martial arts and weaponry that most teens do not posses. Alex is a likable protagonist, he is brave, smart and has bouts of insecurity that appeals to readers. Working successfully through his insecurities provides the action and character development while being entertaining as well.

Reader's Annotation:
Alex is expected to follow into the family business. How hard can it be, right?

Information About the Author:
Anthony Horowitz had a horrible childhood.Born in England and part of a wealthy family, he was overweight, unhappy and lived at a boarding school. One positive to result from such unhappy circumstances was Anthony's ability to make up a good story. The very popular Alex Rider series is celebrating it's tenth year and has also been made into a movie in 2006. To date there are eight Alex Rider novels, one more just completed will finish the series.
The newest series from Anthony Horowitz is The Power of Five, a supernatural thriller with a boy protagonist. Also part of Anthony's resume is writing for television including Foyle's War and an episode of Agatha Christie's Poirot.

Genre:
Adventure/Espionage and Terrorism

Curriculum Ties:
Espionage
Terrorism
Children doing adult's work

Booktalking Ideas:
Could you avenge a family members death?
The ability to work under pressure, knowing it is life and death.
Would you be able to kill someone in self defense?

Reading Level/Interest Age:
9th +

Challenge Issues:
None

Why Include This Book?
A teen boy who usually only uses the computers recommended this book. I wanted to read it to be able to have a conversation with him.