David Inside Out

Reader: Sabrina K
Age: 15
Title: David Inside Out
Author: Lee Bantle
Publisher: Christy Ottaviano Books
Pub Date: March 09
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: Yes
Annotation: David has a secret that he's trying to hide. He even tries to cover it up, getting a girlfriend and doing what every "normal" teenage boy would do. But will he ever get sick of hiding from the truth?
Recommend: Yes
Convince us to read the book: This book shows that you can't run away from the truth, the same struggles you have will always be following you no matter where you go. This book shows the beauty of breaking free to your true identity and being the REAL you and taking risks.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: Since I live in the Twin Cities I loved how it felt so real- the places they went and everything made the characters feel more realistic to me that they could be everyday people right in my own neighborhood.
Comments: I think some of the details of where the characters where going should have been a bit more descriptive. As I said before, I live in the Twin Cities so the places they mentioned weren't that hard to imagine. But if I would have been someone who didn't live in the Twin Cities it would of been hard to imagine to add a bit of detail to that. I loved the little detail about Ridgedale mall as well- that was hilarious!
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents of the book: The cover did tempt me up to pick the book a bit but it didn't really reflect the contents of the book. It did have two boys talking to each other but that's all. I think it should have been a track field or two boys running-it would of reflected the book more. Or even better a walking/running path!
Age Range: 16-17
Quality: 5Q Hard to imagine a better book
Popularity: 5P Everyone wants to read it

Devil's Paintbox

Reader: Luke M
Age: 15
Title: Devil's Paintbox
Author: Victoria McKeran
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Pub Date: 1/13/09
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: Yes
b: After all other family members die, Aiden and Maddie are left starving in the prairies of Kansas. Their only chance for survival will be braving the hardships of the Oregon Trail and then life in debt to an uncaring logging company. Facing wolves, small pox and river fording, the journey seems impossible.
Recommend: Yes
Convince us to read the book: A historical fiction novel about a boy traveling on the Oregon Trail to a job at a logging camp to escape starvation.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: I liked the motives of all the characters, especially Aiden. The way he acted after Maddie's death was realistic.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book at all: The book seemed to have very little unique. There are many stories about people traveling west to look for jobs. This one did focus a lot on after the trip and had a few new ideas (being orphans, Maddie's death) it still didn't seem any better than most Oregon Trail books.
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents of the book: The cover was very interesting, as it looked like a historical novel in the west, which it was. Also, because of this, it accurately reflected the book and the person on the cover has a bow, like Aiden.
Age Range: 14-15
Quality: 4Q Better than most
Popularity: 3P Some teen appeal

Castration Celebration

Reader: Luke M
Age: 15
Title: Castration Celebration
Author: Jake Wizner
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
Pub Date: 5/26/09
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: No
Recommend: No
Compelling Aspect of the Book: The book was funny (especially the musical) and I also liked how Olivia made the musical reflect her life and change events and characters as things happened in the book. The characters all seemed realistic, even if what Olivia made Max do wasn't.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book at all: The ending was one of the better I have seen lately. It was enjoyable, wrapped up the end and left room for a sequel without leaving the reader unsatisfied.
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents of the book: The cover was not something that would convince me to read it. It looked very sappy, especially the people along the bottom. It didn't reflect the contents, as none of the people on the cover looked anything the characters in the musical.
Age Range: 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 3Q Readable
Popularity: 3P Some teen appeal

Alien Feast

Reader: Luke M
Age: 15
Title: Alien Feast
Author: Michael Simmons
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
Pub Date: May 2009
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: No
Recommend: No
Compelling Aspect of the Book: I really liked uncle Maynard. He was an interesting and funny character. I also liked the reasons listed as to why some humans were still alive.
Did you finish the book: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book: The book seemed to be written for kids younger than teens, with a few parts that would make it a teen level book. Teens would probably prefer a book about teens. The writing seemed to be for younger people. Also, the ending leaves a lot unexplained and many of the decisions the characters make are very un-thought out.
Comments: If two 12-year-olds and an uncle with heart problems , all untrained, can destroy alien ships and kill aliens with alien rifles, how did the aliens ever beat a well-trained, well-armed military? I know the aliens had superior technology, but humans also have a lot of weapons that can destroy things larger than an armchair.
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents of the book: The cover was dull and unrelated to the book. The aliens didn't look like that and also the title is hard to read. The cover has nothing interesting on it, all it is is some words and a blue background.
Age Range: Under 12
Quality: 3Q Readable
Popularity: 3P Some teen appeal

Ghost Huntress: The Awakening

Reader: Meghan K
Age: 14
Title: Ghost Huntress: The Awakening
Author: Marley Gibson
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin
Pub Date: May 2008
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: No
Recommend: Yes
Convince to read book: Like many others, I have a void in my heart shaped like the Ghostbusters. I miss them, specifically. It's been over twenty years since the original movie came out, and viewing the cartoons can only heal the deep hurt in my heart for so long. So I was hoping this book would help me move on with my life, and get over my mourning.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: And what can I say, it worked. Mostly. This book is no great literature, but it is a fun and entertaining read. It does take ghosts/ghost hunting/psychic powers more seriously than I do, (actually, more seriously than I take just about anything) and at times is a little too new-agey for my tastes. But it never dwells on the crunchy granola-ness for too long, and is quite content to move on to more interesting things, which kept the book moving at a nice, brisk pace.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book at all: I did like the characters, they seemed real to me. My one hang-up with them is actually less specific to this book, more about YA literature in general. And because I'm the one writing this, and you are reading it (and it's on the internet!), my opinion is suddenly valider than it would be otherwise. And that opinion is that the main character's friends are always eager to forgive, no matter what. As soon as the character apologizes, the friendship bounces back, and is stronger than ever. Um, has that ever actually happened? Ever? Answer: No. When you fight with a friend, the fight is still there, even after you've made up. It's awkward, and it takes days (minimum) to dissolve it, and have it no longer hanging over your heads. But in fiction, a main character could become a serial killer, murder everyone in the friend's family, hang their mutilated corpses from a tree, and wear their entrails as jewelry, then light the friend's home on fire and read their diary out loud in the style of Snarf from Thundercats in front of the friend's crush, and all it would take is one "I'm sorry" for it all to be back to normal. And the friend would sneak a nail file to the main character in prison, and then drive the getaway car. That has never happened ever. Ever. Not once in the history of mankind did anyone over about 7 and a half forgive and forget. I may be cynical, but I calls 'em as I sees 'em, and you don't have to keep reading if you really disagree with me that much. Actually, you're at the end of the review anyway, so ha! Hahahahahahaha! Haha!
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents of the book: I like this cover. It's got swirlies and squiggles on it, it's visually interesting without being overwhelming, and it's purple. Need I say more?
Age Range: Under 12, 12-13, 14-15
Quality: 4Q Better than most
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal

Evil?

Reader: Meghan K
Age: 14
Title: Evil?
Author: Timothy Carter
Publisher: Flux
Pub Date: 2009
Galley: No
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: Yes
Annotation: After being caught getting it on with himself in his shower, Stuart is ostracized by his conservative town. His vendetta to free them from possession by a fallen angel is joined by other “sinners," and one demon with attitude problems.
Recommend: Yes
Convince us to read the book: Chances are, if you're not offended by the concept of this book, you will love it and think it's hysterical. Ready for the concept? Okay here goes: Stuart is a gay teenage boy who was caught on a date with Rosie Palms in his shower. Aaaaaand he summons demons. Just 'cuz. Okay, offended yet? No? Good, because if you were, that'd be bad, as you'd be missing out on a pretty good read.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: One thing I neglected to mention. Stuart's entire town has been possessed by a fallen angel who has a personal vendetta against the one-man mambo. A militant fallen angel, I might add. So Stuart and a few other teens caught being masters of their domains are attacked by a mob. Stuart summons a demon, Fon Pyre, to help the kids combat the angry town. It only gets weirder from there, believe it or not.
Did you finish the book: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book: I honestly can't think of any valid complaints about this book. I know people get confused by the punctuation at the end of the title, and are unsure of how to pronounce it, but I never had such troubles. (Hint: If you're not saying the title with a Ron Burgundy-esque overemphasis of the question mark, you're not saying it right! I know a lot of people may be offended by this book, but I wasn't, so I was completely okay with it. I guess if you're irreverent and already corrupted by modern media, you'll be okay.
Comments: As much as I enjoyed this book, I rated it low on the popularity scale, only because, as stated above, many people might be embarrassed/offended/just plain grossed out by this book. It's most certainly not for everyone. But if you're not everyone, if you're simply anyone, then I would heartily recommend Evil?
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents: I like this cover well enough, but it's sideways. It got my hopes up that the whole book would be sideways, but nooooo. I feel betrayed. (Not really.)
Age Range: 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 4Q Better than most
Popularity: 2P Only for special interest

Catching Fire

Reader: David L
Age: 16
Title: Catching Fire
Author: Suzanne Collins
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pub Date: 09/01/2009
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: Yes
Recommend: Yes
Convince us to read the book: Catching Fire is an intense and intellectual fast-paced novel, one of the best I've read. In fact, I don't think you should even consider not reading it.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: The supremely creative plot combined with all of the different clever little plot twists.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book at all: I really wish the character of Peeta would be fleshed out a little more. I like what I know about him, but that is sadly very little. He seems to be simply another dead weight. People say good things about him, but we rarely see him living up to them.
Comments: The writing itself isn't perfect, but the book didn't fail to draw me in. I couldn't help but be annoyed by the ending. It was too quick of an explanation, and for some reason I felt as if the ending had shifted to a much more detached writing style, far less entrancing than the rest of the book. There were a few times when I wondered if I had missed something, some fight or talk, or skipped a few pages, but I realized that they were simple inconsistencies, probably due to editing.
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents: Yes, it certainly did. This book's cover was subtle, enticing, and wonderfully simple.
Age Range: 14-15, 16-17, 18 up
Quality: 5Q Hard to imagine a better book
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal

By The Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead

Reader: Meghan K
Age: 14
Title: By The Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead
Author: Julie Anne Peters
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Pub Date: Jan 2010
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: No
Recommend: No
Convince us to read the book (or not, lol): When I first picked up Julie Anne Peter's By The Time You Read This, I'll be Dead, I was the ideal audience. Sick to my stomach, unable to leave the restroom, and with no other books.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: By The Time You Read This, I'll be Dead centers on the justifiably bitter Daelyn, who was teased about her weight growing up to the point where she attempts suicide. I understand why anyone in that situation would be angry, bitter, and have a few bones to pick with humanity, and I don't want to appear cold-hearted, but I stopped caring right around page 5. Daelyn is the whiniest person on the whole freakin' planet, and I say this after having recently watched a half-hour of The View (Zing! Take that, television!). Needless to say, the most compelling aspect of the book was not the book itself, but a bizarre bile fascination/random strain of sadomasochism.
Did you finish: No
Were you disappointed with the book at all: Okay, okay, I'm being a little hard on the book. The concept is interesting, and the book itself was not bad, it was just hard to focus on the actual story when you're fantasizing about punching the main character and telling her what you REALLY think of her name. I think the book itself would have worked much better if told in third-person, so that way we could focus on the story, and less on the constant stream of complaints.
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents of the book: I am not a fan of this cover. It's not a terrible cover, it just doesn't motivate me to read the book.
Age Range: 12-13, 14-15
Quality: 2Q Needs more work
Popularity: 2P Only for special interest

Breathless

Reader: Sara M
Age: 17
Title: Breathless
Author: Jessica Warman
Publisher: Walker
Pub Date: 08/18/2009
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: No
Would you recommend this book: No. I feel like there are better books on the market right now that have a much clearer focus, so I wouldn't recommend it to my friends.
Did you finish: Yes
Compelling aspect of the book: The character of Katie was the most compelling aspect of the book and it was her character that kept the novel from falling apart. She was complex, and I really liked the fact that she had multiple motivations for her actions - she didn't do things for one strong reason. At times I found her extremely annoying, but still easy to relate to and that added to my reading experience. She seemed very real, and the author didn't shy away from exploring her flaws, which I liked.
Were you disappointed with the book at all: This book seemed kind of choppy at various points and there were things that didn't really seem to fit in with the rest of the story thrown in at random times. The novel lacked a really clear focus—I felt like there was too much going on and that the author was trying to do too many things at once. I never was quite sure what the point of the novel was supposed to be—Katie’s secret about her older brother Will, her friendship with Mazzie, her relationship problems, and her quest for swimming glory were competing for the main focus, and the book kind of lost its center. I feel like the author was trying to do too much in this novel and it would be much improved if she focused it on one or two main ideas.
Comments: Katie's relationship with Mazzie just seemed weird. I understand that they were close and it was an all-girls dorm, but sleeping in the same bed? And holding hands? It didn't seem at all realistic to me and that put me off from Mazzie's character. Also, Kaite's boyfriend is presented as the "good Christian boy" who's always going to church, yet he drinks while underage. That didn't seem to fit in with his character—and worse yet, no one ever called him on it. His character seemed fake because of this.
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents of the book: I thought that this was a wonderful cover for the book. The image is something that grabbed my attention and made me pick the book up. I felt like it did a pretty good job of reflecting the contents of the book without giving too much away. The tie-in to swimming was great, and the cover also has a bit of symbolic meaning, especially talking about secrets.
Age Range: 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 3Q Readable
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal

Fire

Reader: Meghan K
Age: 14
Title: Fire
Author: Kristan Cashore
Publisher: Dial Books
Pub Date: Sept. 2009
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: Yes
Recommend: Yes
Convince us to read the book: Fire is about a girl named... wait for it... wait for it…Fire. Yet another fiction protagonist who is so beautiful it's a curse, (problems I wish I had!) Fire is a slightly dull yet strong and tough character. This book is slightly boringer (I just made that up. It's a word now.) than Cashore's previous novel, Graceling, focusing less on trekking through mountains and fighting bobcats and more on political intrigue Fire is still worth reading.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: As I said, Fire is a boring character. It's a really bad sign when the side characters seem deeper and more interesting than the lead. Yet I kept reading despite my limited patience for politically charged plots. So what kept me reading? To be honest, your guess is as good as mine. My vote is Jedi mind trick, and I applaud the author on creating a book that will hold an extremely finicky reader's interest even when it's not enthralling.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book at all: I did like Fire, don't get me wrong, (as a matter of fact, I framed the book poster, which is currently hanging in my room) but I didn't like certain aspects of the book. In both of Cashore's books, the lead uses a magical birth control/morning after pill plant objects that prevents pregnancy. Now, I understand that this is responsible on the part of the character, but it feels a little cop-outty on the part of the author because it means the character can pretty much sleep with whomever she so pleases without fear or consequences. Neither of the characters have used the plant/drug/plot device to sleep with anyone other than their respective designated love interests, but still. The book is also a little slow going and got a few basic anatomy rules wrong, (if a woman is sterile, she will no longer menstruate, for one.) but for the most part, was a pretty interesting read. I would definitely recommend it, especially to fantasy fans.
Did the cover tempt you: Someone at Dial books is a freakin' genius, they keep creating gorgeous and simple covers for Kristan Cashore, the lucky dog.
Age Range: 12-13, 14-15
Quality: 4Q Better than most
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal

Fire

Reader: Megan W
Age: 16
Title: Fire
Author: Kristin Cashore
Publisher: Harcourt
Pub Date: 10/05/09
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: Yes
Recommend: Yes
Annotation: “Fire is a woman who lives up to her name. She is strong and independent, and can have a temper just as bright as her red hair. She is spunky, witty, and absolutely lovable.”
How would you convince your friends to read the book: I would tell them to read this book because in addition to romance and adventure, there is also a bit of action and mystery in this book as well. Who do you trust in a country being stretched thin by threats of war from three different kings? What do you do to keep your people safe and loyal to you? This book was just as compelling and addicting as Kristin's previous book, Graceling. While one character from Graceling appears in this book, you don't have to have read Graceling to understand the plot of Fire. And that is what I like about books; I love when they can stand alone but are still tied loosely together.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: Kristin Cashore takes us to a country, the Dells, that is tense with threats of war hanging on the horizon. In this beautiful country gorgeous creatures called monsters exist. There are all kinds of animal monsters, and human monsters as well. They are appealing to everyone and hard to resist, though they can be unpredictable and dangerous. Our story begins with Fire, a human monster who wants very much to be good. But because she is so beautiful, people have a hard time trusting her.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book at all: Even though it is summer I found I didn't have as much time as I would have liked to read this book. It took longer than I would have liked. But every spare moment I had was dedicated to this book. At first, I was afraid to start reading this book because I didn't know if it could live up to Graceling, which I love. I was not disappointed. The author managed to create a different story with whole new characters while still keeping her fun, easy-to-read writing style that was seen in her previous book. I fell in love with the characters and grew with them. The story made me happy and put me in a great mood when I finished.
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents of the book: The cover of Fire is just as beautiful as the cover for Graceling is. The colors are bright and vivid. The reds flow seamlessly with the oranges, and even some purple to create a cover that is appealing to the eye. The bow on the front pertains very much to the book, and even the colors chosen for the cover mean a lot to the story of the book. In my opinion, the cover is perfect for the book in every way.
Age Range: 16-17
Quality: 5Q Hard to imagine a better book
Popularity: 5P Everyone wants to read it

The Pale Assassin

Reader: Elise S
Age: 13
Title: The Pale Assassin
Author: Patricia Elliott
Publisher: Holiday House
Pub Date: 10/15/09
Galley: Yes
Annotation: Eugenie is a spoiled fourteen-year-old aristocrat, living during the French Revolution. She is unaware, however, of the political turmoil surrounding her, until she and her brother are threatened. They must flee France, and the gaze of the pale assassin.
Recommend: No
Compelling Aspect of the Book: I didn't know very much about the French Revolution before this, and now I have more detailed information. I also liked all the descriptions of the clothes they wore.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book at all: From the cover, I thought the main character was going to become the assassin, and she didn't. That made me sad. Also, there was very little character development until far into the book, and then it was extremely sudden, and at the end the girl goes back to being vain. On top of that, the guy she absolutely hates, she falls in love with him almost overnight.
Did the cover reflect the contents: The cover looks good, and is interesting, but does not reflect the book. The main character, Eugenie, looks quite deadly in the picture, and she never really is. She is wearing a pretty dress though.
Age Range: 12-13
Quality: 2Q Needs more work
Popularity: 3P Some teen appeal

Mutiny: A Novel of the H.M.S Bounty

Reader: Elise S
Age: 13
Title: Mutiny: A Novel of the H.M.S Bounty
Author: John Boyne
Publisher: Thomas Dunne Books
Pub Date: 2008
Galley: Yes
Recommend: Yes
Annotation: John Jacob Turnstile is a fourteen year-old pickpocket and has a choice put before him: go to jail, or become a captain's servant on the H.M.S. Bounty, a ship with an important mission. Little did he know that the trip would turn out to be a lot longer than expected, due to unhappy sailors. How would you convince someone to read the book: I would tell them that Mutiny was very well written, and extremely historically accurate.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: I loved how true to the times it was. I could feel that the author had put a lot of work into researching phrases, sea life, and the little details of life.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book at all: It started dragging towards the end. It felt to me that the author just lost some steam. He ended about five chapters with phrases like "if only I knew how short-lived this peace would be." and "It would only be later that I realized what this would mean, and I regretted not putting it together before." Before anything actually happened. And then when something actually happened it wasn't all that exciting, and the next quarter of the book was spent repeating over and over how hungry, thirsty, and insane they are.
Comments: I noticed the main character had an unappealing thing about his crotch. That put me off a bit.
Did the cover reflect the contents: The cover was GREAT! I like how it shows the reader that it's a novel about the sea, and a boy, and the words over everything are a nice touch. Even though the book says that the main character's hair is supposed to be dark, NOT blond.
Age Range: 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 4Q Better than most
Popularity: 3P Some teen appeal

Stolen Car

Reader: David L
Age: 16
Title: Stolen Car
Author: Patrick Jones
Publisher: Walker and Company
Pub Date: 09/??/2008
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: No
Recommend: No
Compelling Aspect of the Book: The idea behind it is awesome. A girl stealing a car for revenge on an evil-thief-boyfriend guy is delicious.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you Disappointed with the book: I was disappointed by Stolen Car. I finished it quickly, but I found myself reading just to get to the "exciting part" for much of the book. The book stayed pretty boring. I started to be simply depressed by the conditions of the MC's family, the disgusting habits of the MC, and her inability to act smart. The whole best-friend fiasco at the end was a dry, boring kind of surprise. There was no build up to it... or there was, but I'd already lost interest. I was looking forward to screaming fast car chases, police, and happy endings. Once again, it didn't happen.
Did the cover reflect the contents: Yes and No. The cover displayed high speed-excitement—the book was a page turner, but the excitement never materialized.
Age Range: 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 3Q Readable
Popularity: 3P Some teen appeal

Bones of Faerie

Reader: Briana G
Age: 16
Title: Bones of Faerie
Author: Janni Lee Simner
Publisher: Random House
Pub Date: 1/27/2009
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: No
Recommend: Yes
Compelling Aspect of the Book: The whole book is compelling really. The characters are believable and relatable. The setting is wonderously crafted, as is the plot. It didn't seem as if the author was forcing problems on the characters to keep the plot going, which is an astounding achievement for a book that involves a lot of traveling and few characters for most of the storyline. The interactions and relationships between the characters was well-written. It was all in all a compelling, good read.
Did you finish: Yes
Did the cover reflect the contents: The cover was beautifully simple and perfect. The font was just right and the colors and contrast phenomenal. It provoked curiosity about what the leaf meant in the book. It also reflected the mood/tone of the book quite accurately.
Age Range: 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 5Q Hard to imagine a better book
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal

Metamorphosis Junior Year

Reader: Briana G
Age: 16
Title: Metamorphosis Junior Year
Author: Betsy Franco
Publisher: Candelwick Press
Pub Date: 10/00/08
Galley: Yes
Recommend: Yes
Compelling Aspect of the Book: I think the poems and drawings throughout the book help you connect with the character, and they gave a sense of authenticity to it.
Did you finish: Yes
Did the cover reflect the contents: While the cover accurately reflected the contents, I think it made the book look a little too young for the audience it was aiming for.
Age Rang : 12-13, 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 3Q Readable
Popularity: 3P Some teen appeal

Into the Wild Nerd Yonder

Reader: David L

Age: 16
Title: Into the Wild Nerd Yonder
Author: Julie Halpern
Publisher: Fewell and Friends
Pub Date: 09/??/2009
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: No
Recommend: Yes
Convince us to read book: Look, here's how the slightly-less-technologically-advanced half views us. Maybe this helps to explain why there are so few female nerds!
Compelling Aspect of the Book: The idea of the book is compelling, the main character is easy to relate to, and it's putting a lighter spin on high school society as a whole.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you Disappointed with the book: I wish the book had a little more sword-play and excitement (I mean, there are so many places you could add it)!
Did the cover reflect the contents: Yes and no. The green, text-laden cover was an interesting and eye catching cover. The new cover with the dress is not so good. I don't know how well a medieval style dress reflects the contents, but the cover with an excerpt was excellent and accurate.
Age Range: 12-13, 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 4Q Better than most
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal

Fire

Reader: Frances W
Age: 12
Title: Fire
Author: Kristen Cashore
Publisher: Dial Books
Pub Date: 9/?/o9
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: Yes
Annotation: Trouble is upon Fire, the most beautiful and powerful woman in the Dells. War is coming, something is fogging the minds around her, and she is having trouble living down her deceased evil father's legacy. She must do something—but what?
Recommend: Yes
Convince us to read the book: It was a big adventure book and it showed you the downsides to being beautiful. I really liked Fire and all her friends—her mind reading really gave you insight to all the characters. This gives them a lot of depth. Fire's multiple enemies and the danger she faces are thrilling, while her kindness made me really really hope she would be okay.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: The most interesting part would probably be Fire herself. She has so much depth, and her flashbacks just add to that. Her kindness and love make her one of my favorite characters of all time.
Did you finish: Yes
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents: It did tempt me to pick it up. Not just because it's the prequel to Graceling—although that made me want to read it even more. I liked that you couldn't see Fire's face because that way you can picture her for yourself—the most beautiful woman in the world.
Age Range: 12-13, 14-15, 16-17, 18 up
Quality: 5Q Hard to imagine a better book
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal

Into the Wild Nerd Yonder

Reader: Payton G
Age: 13
Title: Into the Wild Nerd Yonder
Author: Julie Halpern
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Pub Date: 10/2009
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: Yes
Recommend: Yes
Annotation: Jessie is about to start sophomore year in high school. For her, that means losing her two best friends to the punk scene, having her crush stolen by her best friend, and transforming into a nerd. But will she discover that sometimes nerds can be cooler than punk poseur wannabes? Can Dungeons and Dragons be more fun than a punk core party? Jessie is going to find out. She's going into the wild nerd yonder.

Convince us to read the book: I would say that it is a hilarious story of a girl's transformation from loser nobody to awesome nerd. And that nerd isn't used in a bad way except by the people who aren't good.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: The most compelling aspect in my opinion is that this happens all the time. People go through phases in high school, and some stick.
Did you finish: Yes
Age Range: 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 5Q Hard to imagine a better book
Popularity: 5P Everyone wants to read it

Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side

Reader: Megan W

Age: 16
Title: Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side
Author: Beth Fantaskey
Publisher: Harcourt
Pub Date: 02/01/09
Galley: No
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: No
Recommend: Yes
How would you convince others to read the book: I would tell them that while this may be another vampire romance novel, it was able to distance itself from others and stand out. It was witty and intriguing, and I for one found it a great read. While it didn't stick with the traditional vampire books (I mean, why can't we go back to them burning in the sun, not showing up in mirrors?) it didn't fit the mold of the sexy, nice vampires.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: While I really, REALLY want to go back to evil vampires that burn in the sun and are repulsed by garlic, this book wasn’t too bad. Although I could tell what was going to happen right from the beginning, I still faithfully read until the end. And I was not disappointed. Thankfully, this story was not another Twilight repeat. While the vampire in this book (Lucius) is certainly tempting, the heroine (Jessica, aka Antanasia) is strong and refuses to be wooed by some person she doesn’t know. Being told that she is betrothed to Lucius sends a small shiver of excitement through Jessica (I mean, who can’t resist being together with a sexy vampire?) but she still refuses him. And Lucius certainly isn’t perfect; he has a very big temper, and he has a serious problem with letting people see him weak. And he most certainly has huge pride. But that’s what made me like him; for being a vampire prince, he was FLAWED. He was not perfect like vampires nowadays seem to be.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book: But for all my talking about how much I like the book, there were some things that I didn’t like as well. For instance, I am REALLY sick of self-sacrificing characters. And in this way I saw a Twilight repeat. Lucius, though in love with Jessica, will sacrifice himself to save her and to keep from cursing”her to live a life as a vampire. It was the whole “I love you and we could be happy together, but I’m going to try to make you hate me and make us both miserable so I can keep you safe.” I, personally, am sick of it. They finally find happiness and a possible solution to their problems, and then the vampire throws it all away just to keep her safe? Ugh, it is rather nauseating. Also, the end seemed SUPER rushed to me. I was hoping for maybe a better reunion, and an explanation to what happened to the war. So, what? Since they end up together the war and ill feelings will just disappear? I doubt it. Which makes me wonder if there will be a sequel. And I fear that this book will indeed have a sequel, as so many do these days. What happened to good stand-alone books?
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents: The cover is very tempting, and very true to the book. That is about how I pictured the characters looking. But I was a bit disappointed with the title. The title, Jessica’s GUIDE to Dating on the Dark Side implies that the book will give advice about how to date on the dark side.” Sadly, I was mistaken. I thought the book would be witty and give tips on how to date evil beings. The title didn’t seem to fit at all with the book.
Comments: Though I found bad things to say about this book, I really did like it. I finished in a day because I just couldn’t stop. It was addicting, and I found myself drawn to the characters. I would definitely recommend it to people, as it is a fantastic read and very captivating. It gives a whole new twist on vampires. What if you were betrothed to a vampire and had to marry him to save two races on the brink of war? Would you choose eternity with a stranger?
Age Range: 16-17
Quality: 4Q Better than most
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal

This Book Isn’t Fat, It’s Fabulous

Reader: Brielle G
Age: 15
Title: This Book Isn’t Fat, It’s Fabulous
Author: Nina Beck
Publisher: Scholastic
Pub Date: Sept 2008
Nominate for Teens’ Top 10: Yes
Recommend: Yes
Comments: GREAT BOOK LOVED IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
How would you convince others to read the book: I will tell them that it is an awesome book and that they should read it. It can teach you a lot about yourself.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: The part when Riley and Eric are in the tent.
Did you finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book at all: The ending. I want to know what happens, there should be a part two.
Did the cover tempt you: Yes the cover made me want to read the book.
Age Range: 14-15, 16-17
Quality: 5Q Hard to imagine a better book
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal

My Soul To Take

Reader: Megan W
Age: 16
Title: My Soul To Take
Author: Rachel Vincent
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Pub Date: 08/01/09
Galley: Yes
Nominate For Teens’ Top 10: Yes
Recommend: Yes
Annotation: "Being able to predict death is not exactly Kaylee's idea of a normal life. Filled with drama, romance and mystery, My Soul To Take is a must-read book."
Convince us to read the book: In a time of vampire romance novels, anything that deviates is a very welcome breath of fresh air. This book deals with the paranormal, but it is about as far from vampires as you can get. It is about those that can predict death. I found it extremely captivating, and the story was original and creative and very fun to read.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: This story is about a girl, Kaylee, who can predict the death of someone within minutes of them dying. She has no idea why she can do this, but she does know one thing: when someone is about to die, Kaylee lets out an unworldly scream that blocks out all noise. The worst part is she can't stop it. And after being placed in a hospital labeled as slightly off-kilter, Kaylee begins to wonder if she is crazy. That is, until she meets a man who claims that he can help her. Then everything that Kaylee knows changes as she enters a strange new world.
Did You Finish: Yes
Were you disappointed with the book: This book kept me captivated until the very end, and when I did finish, I really wanted the sequel. My Soul To Take is witty and very enjoyable, and the characters are lovable. I found myself growing fond of the characters and relating myself to them. While my life may be very different from the lives of those in the book, I could still enjoy it immensely. Even though it dealt with death, it didn't really feel like death was all that was talked about. And this book certainly isn't a downer, which is probably why I enjoyed it so much :] I found myself thinking about things in a whole new light in ways that I had never thought about before (I would tell you what exactly I am talking about, but that might ruin part of the surprise :])
Did the cover reflect the contents: The cover for My Soul To Take is really beautiful, and very captivating. The deep reds and swirling patterns capture the eye right away. The woman on the cover looks as if she is dancing and is in a graceful pose that draws and invites the reader in. I love the words swirling around the woman. But while this cover is really pretty, I'm not quite sure how it fits with the book.
Age Range: 16-17
Quality: 4Q Better than most
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal
Link: Free eBook Prequel: My Soul To Lose by Rachel Vincent