W.I.T.C.H. Book 7: The Light of Meridian

The Light of Meridian by, Julie Komorn. ISBN-10: 0-7868-1796-8

Sandwiched between fourteen pages of a graphic novel lies the heart of the story that is The Light of Meridian. The W.I.T.C.H. series, which originated as an Italian comic book created by Elisabetta Gnone, has since become a series of comic books, chapter books, and an animated television show. The series focuses on five girls who live seemingly ordinary lives in a town called Heatherford. However, they are secretly the Guardians of the Veil and are responsible for protecting Earth form evil creatures that could enter through one of twelve portals from the dark world of Metamoor. The girls suffer with classic teenage fashion and boy problems, which helps make the characters easy to relate to. Each girl has two basic personality traits and almost all of their actions and dialogue could be predicted by these two traits. Will, the leader of the group struggles with feelings about the boy she likes, Matt; Taranee goes on a date with Nigel, the boy she likes, and Cornelia deals with dreams about her unknown soul mate and memories of her old best friend-turned-enemy, Elyon. Cornelia, who sets off for the other world of Meridian in hopes of saving Elyon, happens to meet the boy of her dreams and learns that he is the leader of a rebel movement set on destroying the evil Prince Phobos, who is Elyon's brother. Far more of the book is filled with descriptions of boy dramas than with the fantasy parts of the story or the major battle that gets fought between Phobos' army and the rebels. The battle takes place without much violence-- it is definitely geared towards a female audience. Nonetheless, the story moved quickly, the action was exciting, and the friendships felt real. The story does not come to a true ending, but leaves readers hanging so that they will want to read the eighth book in the W.I.T.C.H. series, Out of the Dark. This book follows the current trend in modern fantasy books like the Percy Jackson or Alcatraz Smedry series of taking modern, normal kids, giving them special powers, and still having them behave like modern, normal kids. Ultimately, this is a girly book that will appeal to fans of the Candy Apple series.

Scerets of Dripping Fang Book One: The Onts

The Onts by, Dan Greenburg. ISBN-13: 978-0152054571

With the worst allergies and stinkiest feet ever known, Cheyenne and Wally Shluffmuffin should have been glad that Hedy and Dagmar Mandible chose to bring them home from the orphanage. But Wally, ever the pessimist, sensed trouble-- even though dinner consisted of Belgian chocolate cake, chocolate dinner mints, and double-chocolate sundaes. Besides, their new home was smack in the middle of a creepy place called Dripping Fang Forest. The two women seemed nice enough, but their strange rules led Wally to explore the forbidden cellar-- only to discover that some secrets really are better left unknown. Cheyenne and Wally will have to try to escape with their lives. Even if they can get past the evil Mandible sisters, how will they be able to survive the countless horrors lurking deep within the Dripping Fang Forest.

This is a quick read, a light read, a perfect book for reluctant readers. It will appeal to tweens who appreciate the Edgar and Ellen series by, Charles Ogden. The plot is loaded with disgusting twists and turns and some seriously bizarre villains. The main characters aren't that well developed, but character development isn't really what this book is about. It is the first book in a series that follows a familiar formula: add together a set of siblings, something spooky, something gross, something chasing after them, and a cliffhanger. Do this a few times and suddenly we have a series of high interest, easy to read chapter books that will get reluctant boys to pick up a book and read.

Lucy the Diamond Fairy

Lucy the Diamond Fairy by, Daisy Meadows. ISBN-13: 978-0439935340

Though the Rainbow Magic series is probably best suited to a second or third grade reading level, the subject matter of the stories appeals to younger tweens who are often found crowding around this section in the library. Lucy the Diamond Fairy, which is one of the seven Jewel Fairy stories from the Rainbow Magic collection has a plot that is about as complex as the reading level it was created for. The cover art, though cartoon, contains rainbows and sparkles and an outfit that screams teen fashion.

Our heroines, Kristy and Rachel, are summoned by the glowing of the lockets presented to them by the King and Queen of the fairies. They travel, using the magic of fairy dust, to Fairyland to help the fairies. Though Kristy and Rachel have already saved many of the magic jewels that were stolen from the Fairy Queen's crown, the magic diamond is still missing-- and without it the fairies have lost their ability to fly! Kristy and Rachel must find where the evil Jack Frost has hidden the diamond and get it back to the King and Queen of the Fairies.

The story is light, easy to follow, and perfectly suited to younger readers. Simple black and white cartoon sketches are dispersed throughout the book. It is a bit too basic for the majority of tweens, but this is a really good series for female English language learners. The themes follow along similar lines as the popular books for tweens, but it is done at a level that will encourage understanding.

Beck and the Great Berry Battle

Beck and the Great Berry Battle by, Laura Driscoll. ISBN-10: 0-736423737

Disney, more than just about any corporation ever, knows what kids like. This story, of the Disney Fairies series, is one of a multitude of Disney Fairies products that include books, music, clothing, jewelry, toys, school supplies, movies, and a website. The stories take place in and around Pixie Hollow, the secret heart of Never Land. Though we are most familiar with the second star on the right from Peter Pan, he is not a character in the series, which centers around various fairies and animals that live in or nearby the Home Tree. In this story Beck, one of the best animal-talent fairies in Pixie Hollow, is challenged to find a way to end a berry battle that has erupted between the hummingbirds and the chipmunks due to a misunderstanding over a lost nest. The fairies can barely go outside for fear of getting hit with berries! As tension in the forest builds to a fervor, the animals encounter a terrible, though slightly contrived, danger that could only be safely navigated if the two sides would call a truce and work together. Will they be able to do it?

The story is light, easy to read, and has no real depth. It has a nice message about getting along with others, which adds value to the story in a very typically Disney sort of way. Beyond that, it's a fairy book with scattered color illustrations in that very classic Disney style that appeals to young girls. The reason there are over 40 Disney fairy books is because young tween girls still love fairies. This book bridges the genres of animal books with fairy books to create a book that has a lot of appeal to tween girls.

Eragon

Eragon by, Christopher Paolini. ISBN-13: 978-0375826689

Filled with rich descriptions and fascinating characters, this thick story is begging to be read. The plot moves slowly, building gradually to an intensely epic saga fashioned after The Lord of the Rings trilogy by, J.R. Tolken. The author, a 15 year old who felt disappointed in the modern fantasy novel, set off to create a masterpiece and eight years later he is working on the fourth and final book in the Eragon series.

The book begins in the town of Caravall, a small village near the Spine, an ominous mountain range where a teenage boy named Eragon finds a mysterious, blue stone. Eragon cares for the stone, which is actually a dragon's egg, and eventually from the egg hatches the dragon, Saphira. The two must flee the village after evil servants for King Galbritox named the Ra'zac come to find and take Saphira's egg. Eragon and Saphira are accompanied by Brom, a storyteller from the village who eventually reveals himself to be one of the famous dragon riders. Brom teaches Eragon many skills to begin his training as a dragon rider. Eragon will need to use these skills and many new ones if he will be able to battle all of the challenges he faces. He will fight alongside elves, dwarves and the Varden rebels to bring peace to the land of Alagaesia.

This book follows along a number of traditional patterns-- from the classic fantasy pattern to the orphan who wonders about his parents. The major theme is similar to the Star Wars epic saga, a small band of constantly roving rebels attempts to take down the evil empire. All of the big reveals in the story seem related to the titular theme of the series-- The Inheritance Cycle. Ultimately, the complex and intricately woven story contains rich plot development, exciting battles, spine-tingling adventure, and believable characters, which combine together to make this saga one that will be enjoyed for generations to come.

The Crazy Man

The Crazy Man by, Pamela Porter. ISBN-10: 0-88899-695-0

Fans of Sharon Creech's Love That Dog must pick up this heartwarming, poetic story. This is a book that must be read with Kleenex. Rich emotional content dances through sparse prose tickling the imaginations of readers. The story begins with an accident. Emaline is hanging off the back of her daddy's tractor when her dog, Prince, spies a rabbit and takes off right in front of the tractor. Emaline races off to save her dog, but gets her leg caught in the tractor and Emaline is badly mangled. While she is in the hospital, her dad shoots the dog and walks away from the farm forever. Emaline's mother tries to pay a neighbor to help with the fields, but he suggests she get a gorilla from over at the crazy hospital. Desperate, Emaline's mother takes his advice and brings Angus to work the family farm. Small-town prejudices create pain and heartache for this family who is just trying to get back on it's feet. Angus, who Emaline discovers is not actually a gorilla, turns out the be the best thing that could have ever happened to this family.

The story written plain
provides an honest view
into the hearts of America.

Some hearts are hardened.
Hardened by our own mistakes.
Hardened by our inability
to affect our own destiny.

The story of farmers in the 1960's
is full of pain.
Looking for rain.
But not hail.
Please, let there be no draught.

Crazy hospitals hold gorillas.
Gorillas are wild animals.
Nobody wants to know a gorilla.
Nobody wants to see the truth.

Truth flashes open in kindness
simple gestures
show truth
where prejudice lies deep

People suffer.
People grow.
They dance under the northern lights
and hope for a better tomorrow.

Children of the Lamp Book Five: The Eye of the Forest

The Eye of the Forest by, P.B. Kerr. ISBN-13: 978-0439932158

John and Phillipa Gaunt are drawn into yet another exciting adventure in this, the fifth book in the Children of the Lamp series entitled, The Eye of the Forest. They face carnivorous plants, headhunters, twelve-foot long centipedes, and some familiar villains as they work their magic to try to save the world yet again. This time the djinn twins have flown to the depths of the Peruvian Amazon with their Uncle Nimrod, Zadie, and Mr. Vodyannoy to meet up with Sicky, a local guide and his chef, Muddy, so that they can find their way to an ancient lost city. Hopefully there, they will be able to stop an ancient prophecy regarding a set of twins and a great tragedy. Unfortunately for the reader, we are never actually told what the great prophecy foretells.

This book is filled with scientific explanations that sometimes lend credibility to Kerr's discussions-- such as an explanation of the way hot air rises in circular currents. At other times, however, like when she uses concepts about radioactive isotopes to bring us to our story's climax, the logic feels a bit forced. With a series focused on magic characters, she should lean a bit less heavily on advanced scientific theory. While the rich descriptions of the Incan life or landscape were historically interesting, this feels like the least magic-based book of magic ever written. The Eye of the Forest has shifted directions from the rest of the series and Kerr fans might be disappointed with this change. The unfinished ending leaves Kerr with a great set-up for the next book, where she will hopefully return to the magic-driven format which has been so successful in the first four books.

The Ranger's Apprentice Book One: The Ruins of Gorlan

The Ruins of Gorlan by, John Flanagan. ISBN-13: 978-0-14-240663-2

With the arrival of the Choosing Day, Will had to accept that his dreams of entering Battleschool would never come true. As disappointed as he was, Will couldn't help but realize that he didn't want to go to Battleschool for himself, but instead, to make his father proud. Will, who knew nothing of his father beyond that he was a hero, imagined that his father would have wanted him to be a brave knight. But Sir Rodney, who was head of Battleschool, would not have him, and Will was left with the dreary prospect of spending his life as a farmer. The mysterious Ranger Halt, handed the Baron a note regarding Will's future-- if only Will were able to see it. Will, who was adept at climbing walls and sneaking around, felt that he must break into the Baron's tower to learn what was on that paper.

So begins a night that will change Will's future forever. The next morning he will have a new path, with new challenges and discoveries. Readers will hang onto Will's adventures as he grows into a person that would have made his father proud. Filled with enormous wild boar, bear-like mind controlled Wargals, and the dreadful Kalkara-- evil beasts that will paralyze you with fear if you look into their eyes, the land of Araluen is a dangerous place for Will to accomplish his dreams. Though the plot is slow to reach a climax, Flanagan does an excellent job of providing a rich description of his characters and the types of lives they lead. Readers will be lured into this book that contains realistic characters who are going through the classic tween dramas of growing up. They will relate to Will wishing for his growth spurt or his feelings after a first kiss. Will is the type of hero that will make every parent proud; he is down-to-Earth, reliable, and courageous. Readers who have enjoyed the Chronicles of Narnia by, C.S. Lewis will appreciate this new series.

Dear Dumb Diary: Never Underestimate Your Dumbness

Never Underestimate Your Dumbness by, Jim Benton. ISBN-13: 9780545242073

Dear Dumb Diary,
This book is important if you need to know a lot of dumb things. You can learn all about different ways to stand at a school dance, how to tilt your head when eating a taco, or where you cannot fart during a wedding. You can read all about Jamie's Aunt Carol marrying Assistant Principal Devon and find out everything you need to know about being a bridesmaid. It is also a good book for helping you to remember that when you think bad things about a person, sometimes you can be wrong. Other times, you can be very, very right!

This would be a good book to read except for the fact that by reading it you are breaking into somebody else's diary and reading it. But, if you were going to do that, well, just make sure you learn about all of the dumb things that happen in the book so that you don't have them happen to you! If you liked reading the Diary of a Wimpy Kid, then you must already be the type of person who likes reading people's most private secrets and you would probably like reading my secrets as well. My secrets are very useful for girls in middle school who are trying to figure out how to get along with all the dumb people you have to talk to every day. It's funny and it has lots of little drawings that help you to understand the most important things inside this book. Some of the things in this book are so funny that you will have to read them out loud--and that is not a very nice thing to do with somebody else's diary. There are nine books in this series that you can read and three more that I will write as soon as you stop peeking over my shoulder.

Alcatraz Versus The Scrivener's Bones

Alcatraz Versus the Scrivener's Bones by, Brandon Sanderson. ISBN-13: 978-0-439-92553-2

This, the second book in the Alcatraz series, is written in a smarmy, smart-alecky, tone that makes you want to smack the book closed and then keep on reading. Alcatrez Smedry is an unlikely hero. In fact, he will be the first to tell you that he is NOT a hero. Like many heroes (we can decide later if he really is one or not) he has a special talent- Alcatraz Smedry can break things. He is one of the best at breaking things that the world has even known-- whether that be this world, the Hushlands, or the Free Kingdoms. Mind you, the world you know is not at all as you have been taught in school. There's actually nine continents, but the other two are being kept hidden from you from all of the evil librarians who are controlling the information and thereby controlling the world. Alcatraz writes his story so that you can finally know the truth about this-- and to prove that he really isn't a hero at all.

Still, somehow our unhero manages to break a giant glass dragon plane, tour the ancient Library of Alexandria, and escape from undead librarians with flaming eyes who will suck out your soul. There's also some bunnies with bazookas. It's just another book in the Alcatraz series written by Brandon Sanderson. These books are hilarious, high action, fast-paced, intelligent, and well-written. If the librarians knew he were writing these books about their underhanded plots at world domination, well, they'd probably still have to buy this fabulous series for their collection!

The Underland Series Book One: Gregor the Overlander

Gregor the Overlander by, Suzanne Collins ISBN-13: 978-0439435369

After Gregor's father mysterious disappearance, the family is devastated. Gregor's two-year-old sister, Boots, falls down a hole in the laundry room and Gregor has to follow after to try to save her. They end up in another world, called the Underland, and with the help of enormous talking roaches and bats they must face gigantic rats who want to take over the Underland. If they succeed, Gregor might be able to save, not only the Underland, but also his family.

The Jacket

The Jacket by, Andrew Clements. ISBN-13: 978-0689860102

While at school one day, Phil sees an African American boy, Daniel, wearing the jacket that his mother had bought him in Italy. He starts a fight with Daniel and while in the principal's office, Phil discovers that his mother had given the jacket to the woman who cleans their house-- which happens to be the Daniel's grandmother! This leads Phil to question whether he would have started that fight if Daniel had been white. An excellent book that helps readers examine their own racial biases.

Maniac Magee

Maniac Magee by, Jerry Spinelli. ISBN-13: 978-0316809061

Orphan, Jeffrey Magee, runs to the small town of Two Mills, Pennsylvania and searches for his place in the world. His fast running, champion knot untying skills, ability to hit the fastest fastball, and rescue of a local child earn him notoriety. In this small town Maniac Magee, as he has been dubbed by the locals, learns about racism, belonging, and heroism.

The Spiderwick Chronlicles Book 1: The Field Guide

The Field Guide by, Tony DiTerlizzi. ISBN-13: 978-0689859366

After their father left the family, the Graces moves to the Spiderwick Estate-- a creepy and dilapidated old house that had once been home to their Aunt Lucinda. Mallory, who is thirteen, and her twin brothers, Jared and Simon are not very excited about the change from New York to this Victorian home in the middle of nowhere. Jared, who is thought to be the trouble-maker in the family because of one fight he got in at school after their dad left, hears a strange sound in the walls, and thinking it is a squirrel, he and his siblings set off to find it. What they find instead is a strange nest containing strung up cockroaches, army men with no hands and feet, a doll's head, and Mallory's silver fencing medal! This begins a set of adventures that will lead the children to a secret room with even greater mysteries than it's location.

This book begins the Spiderwick series, a fanciful and magical set of books that will lure readers into the world of fairies, boggarts, and more. DiTerlizzi uses the first book to introduce readers to the characters and their personalities, passions, and problems. He does so by creating characters that are easy to relate to-- these siblings have problems and they argue with each other, but they are there for each other in the end. It is a short book-- a quick read that is really just bait to get readers hooked on the series. DiTerlizzi is slow to come to the full action with this story, but the ending leaves readers hanging on the edge of their seats, ready for the real action to begin...This book will appeal to readers who enjoy the Land of Elyon series by, Patrick Carman.

If Your're Reading This It's Too Late

If You're Reading This It's Too Late by, Pseudonymous Bosch. ISBN-13: 978-0316113687

Max-Ernst and Cass are back in this exciting adventure involving a secret society, a 500 year old man who was born in a bottle, the evil pop-signing twin teen sensation of the Skelton Sisters, and a magical sound prism. Action and adventure blend with the author's insertion of quirky commentary and footnotes. A wonderful companion to the first book, The Name of this Book is Secret.

Deep Dark and Dangerous

Deep Dark and Dangerous by, Mary Downing Hahn. ISBN-13: 978-0618665457

Ali is excited when her aunt Dulcie invites her to spend the summer babysitting Emma, Ali's four year old cousin, at the lake house in Maine that Dulcie and Ali's mother used to visit as children. The girls meet Sissy, a cruel trouble-making friend with a dark secret. Ali must be careful, or the girls might not make it out alive.

The Thief Lord

The Thief Lord by, Cornelia Funke. ISBN-10: 0-439-40437-1

Orphans, Prosper and Bo escape to Venice and meet up with a street gang of kids who live in an abandoned movie theater. The kids are led by a boy named Scipio who calls himself the Thief Lord. A detective who loves disguises, an evil aunt and uncle, and a magical merry-go-round all play an important part in this enthralling book.

Fruits Basket: Book 16

Fruits Basket Book 16 by, Natsuki Takaya. ISBN-13:978-1-59816-024-6

One of the most popular shojo manga series worldwide, Fruits Basket is a series with an intricate web of characters with strong emotions and dark secrets. This, the sixteenth book in the series, is a bit hard to comprehend without reading the previous books. It begins with Kyo, who is remembering that he had actually known Tohru's mother, Kyoko. While Tohru is a heroine of the series, she plays a minor role in this episode. Kyo reveals that Tohru's mother was unwanted by her family and by middle school she was already heading down a dark path. She met Katsuya, a student teacher at her school, and fell for him. He decided to give up teaching, and the two fell in love. Her parents disowned her, he married her, they got pregnant, had Tohru, and a few years later Katsuya died. Readers of the Fruits Basket story will be excited to finally know Tohru's back story. The transition to the second half of the book is confusing and choppy. There are fifteen characters presented at the beginning of the book, but the majority of those in this story are not listed in the cast. The depictions of the characters change, making it even harder to follow. Jumping in at book sixteen is like flipping on your t.v. for the season finale of a soap opera you've never seen. The plot jumps all over the place and the characters and their decisions are inappropriate for younger readers. Fans of Kare Kano will appreciate the Fruits Basket series. If you are not a manga aficionado, however, this book is not the place to start.

The Midwife's Apprentice

The Midwife's Apprentice by, Karen Cushman. ISBN-13: 978-0064406307

This 1996 Newberry Medal story transports readers into medieval England to accompany our heroine, Alyce, as she grows into the person she was always meant to be. Alyce, a penniless girl who slept in dung heaps to stay warm, becomes apprentice to Jane Sharp, the only midwife around. Alyce deals with taunts and ridicule throughout the village, but ultimately the person she most needs to makes amends to is herself.

The Wizards of Waverly Place

Greenwald, T. (2010). The Wizards of Waverly Place. Hollywood: Disney Channel

This bilingual wizard family has a big problem. Justin has a pimple the size of a mountain-- and it's right in the middle of his forehead. His sister, Alex, tried to make it go away, but accidentally animated it and now this giant talking zit might destroy his chance to go to the junior prom with Miranda, the new goth girl at his school. The giant talking pimple convinces Justin that it would make a great wingman at the junior prom. The plan backfires, however, when the pimple decides to antagonize people at the prom and everybody thinks it's Justin talking.

The premise of the show is one that combines the desire for tweens to be transported to another reality, while at the same time providing material that is easy for them to relate to. Tweens already know how disastrous a giant pimple can be, but enjoy imagining that they could use magic to deal with the situation. The main characters are a family, which portrays a wealth of situations that viewers are familiar with. Selena Gomez, who plays the sister, is one of Disney's new tween sensations. From the very catchy theme song, to the classic tween humor, this is a relatively decent show. While there aren't any characters who provide strong role models for viewers, this is a good, clean show that does at least seem to steer viewers toward behaving in ways that they can be proud of.

Suddenly Supernatural Book One: School Spirit

Suddenly Supernatural: School Spirit by, Elizabeth Cody. ISBN-13: 978-0316066839

Seventh grade is a frightening experience for most kids, but for Kat, it's positively ghastly. Or, to be more accurate, it's positively ghostly. You see, on her thirteenth birthday Kat has begun to see spirits. All Kat wants is to be happy and normal-- to have people like Shoshanna Longbarrow and her satellite girls start to talk to her. Instead, the only people who seem to want to talk to her are dead! Luckily, Kat becomes friends with Jac, the new girl who is always dragging around her giant cello case. Jac reminds Kat that people are often more than they seem to be-- living or dead!. These two friends battle seventh grade dramatics and mayhem while solving a spooky mystery regarding a spirit trapped in their school's library.

The characters in this story are fabulous. Cody perfectly portrays the insecurities and frustrations of middle school through the eyes of a delightful girl who just wants to fit in-- a theme most tweens can relate to. Kat can't help but wish that her fabulous, incense burning, hippie, vegetarian, seance-holding medium mother could be just a little more normal. While Cody exaggerates the eccentricities of Kat's mother, she also clearly depicts her as the type of mom that any kid would be lucky to have-- providing readers with the message that normal isn't necessarily better. This story has the perfect mix of morality, mystery, magic, and middle-school mayhem. Kids who enjoy watching "The Wizards of Waverly Place" should turn off the tube and pick up this book! It's got a similar theme with characters who are less theatrical, easier to relate to, and better role models.

Tales of the Frog Princess Book 7: Dragon Kiss

Dragon Kiss by, E.D. Baker. ISBN-13: 978-1599903484

Audun has found the princess of his dreams and is ready for his happily ever after, but unfortunately life is not that easy. Audun is a dragon and while his dearly beloved can turn into a dragon, she's actually a human with magic powers. Dragons are supposed to mate with dragons, and humans are supposed to mate with humans. In an effort to win the right to woo Millie, Audun must embark on a quest that will bring him across dry, sandy deserts, verdant green mountains, crisp, arctic icy lands, and to the depths of the sea to face tasks that might determine the fate for all of these kingdoms.

This charming fairy tale is wonderful for so many reasons. Our lovestruck hero is wonderfully endearing dragon, who, due to a very human way of looking at the world, is a character who is easy for readers to relate to. He struggles with family, relationships, moral dilemmas, personal expectations, and does so while always holding himself to the highest standard of behavior. Although he is a dragon, he is the type of hero we want to see the world trying to emulate. (Minus the part about him breathing poison on his enemies, I guess...)

E.D. Baker has created a delightful fairy tale series for older readers. This, the seventh book in the Tales of a Frog Princess books, is as enchanting as the first-- and, most likely, the next one will be. Fans of the Inkheart series will undoubtedly enjoy Dragon Kiss.

The Divide

The Divide by, Elizabeth Kay. ISBN-13: 978-0439456968

As well as being our hero, thirteen-year-old Felix is a sickly character with a heart defect. While traveling with his parents in Costa Rica, Felix passes out and awakens in another world where mythical creatures roam the land. Felix teams up with Betony, a tangle child, to try to find a magical cure for his heart defect. The two will have to outsmart the evil Snakeweed if Felix ever hopes to return to Costa Rica alive.

The Land of Elyon Book One: The Dark Hills Divide

The Dark Hills Divide by, Patrick Carman. ISBN-13: 978-0439700931

Alexa Daley is desperate to escape the tall, stone walls that surround her kingdom. She finds a secret passageway that might just help her make that dream come true. She also discovers a magic stone that gives her the ability to talk to animals. This magical adventure is perfect for fans of the Spiderwick series.

Meet the Kreeps: There Goes the Neighborhood

There Goes the Neighborhood by, Kiki Thorpe. ISBN-13: 978-0545065597

Polly Winkler is searching for somebody to set up her father with because she is ready for a new mom. Although she is fascinated by the creepy family that moves into the old, haunted mansion across the street, she certainly didn't want her dad to fall for Veronica Kreep, who in undoubtedly the strangest women Polly has ever met. These new neighbors are about to make it a whole lot harder for Polly to ever feel normal! Readers who enjoy the My Sister the Vampire series will love these books!

A Single Shard

A Single Shard by, Linda Sue Park. ISBN-13: 978-0395978276

This 2002 Newberry Medal winner is a breathtaking story set in 12th-century Korea. Readers are transported to the village of Ch'ul'po where our orphan protagonist, Tree Ear, lives under a bridge with Crane-man, who has taken him in. Tree Ear accidentally breaks a piece of pottery created by the villages most famous craftsman, Min, and must work for Min to pay off his debt. Tree Ear becomes immersed in the world of pottery, and along the way grows into the type of person he was always meant to be.

Horns & Wrinkles

Horns & Wrinkles by, Joseph Helgerson. ISBN-13: 978-0618616794

Claire and her bully of a cousin, Duke, embark on an exciting adventure filled with river trolls and magic. Claire is trying to find a way to save Duke's parents, who have been turned to stone, while Duke is more concerned with pleasing and appeasing the river trolls. Oh, and he has a horn growing out of his face. This playful story, set along the banks of the Mississippi and loaded with magic, humor, and trolls, shows us that good and evil are not always as they seem.

The Dopple Ganger Chronicles Book One: The Great Escape

The Great Escape by, G.P. Taylor. ISBN-13: 978-1414319476

A unique cross between graphic novel and fictional text, this dark tale set in 20th century Britain is the first book of the Dopple Ganger Chronicles. Orphan twins, Saskia and Sadie Dopple, are extreme troublemakers who become separated when Saskia is sent to live with a wealthy woman named Muzz Elliot. Sadie and her friend Erik escape the orphanage and set off to find Saskia. All three children deal with loneliness and villains as they attempt to create their own destiny.

Fablehaven Book Four: Secrets of the Dragon Sanctuary

Secrets of the Dragon Sanctuary by, Brandon Mull. ISBN-13: 978-1416990284

Kendra is off to Wyrmroost, a deadly dragon sanctuary, in an attempt to hide a magic artifact before the Society of the Evening Star can find it. Her brother, Seth, hides inside a magic compartment of Kendra's backpack so that he can join in the adventures! This, the fourth book in the Fablehaven series, is as fast-paced and enjoyable as the first three.

Clarice Bean, Don't Look Now

Clarice Bean, Don't Look Now by, Lauren Child. ISBN-13: 978-0-7636-3935-8

Lauren Child, of Charlie and Lola fame, has written a new series of books with the same quirky humor that has brought her such notoriety. Clarice Bean is for those fans of Charlie and Lola who are now nearly, almost already grown up and needing to be reading much bigger books with chapters and headings. Child, as her name might suggest, speaks the language of children. The books she is writing are the Ramona Quimby books of the modern era.

In this delightful story Clarice Bean offers readers guidance that has been gleaned from her incessant reading of Ruby Redfort Survival Handbook and the Ruby Redfort Spy Guide. Clarice speaks frankly and directly to readers lending an amusing tone to the story, which is filled with Clarice's many worries. Along the way, Clarice talks about moving, divorce, new kids, bullies, family squabbles, acceptance, and friendship. This is most certainly an exceptionally fabulous story that will almost quite certainly help you feel very much better about all of the worries that might quite possibly be bothering you.

Amulet, Book One: The Stonekeeper

The Stonekeeper by, Kazu Kibuishi. ISBN-13: 978-0439846813

Murky earth tones lurk across glossy paper, in this dark and creepy graphic novel. After a tragic car accident in which her father was killed, Emily and her brother, Navin, move with their mother to an old house that was once inhabited by their Great-grandfather Silas. While cleaning the house, Emily discovers a magic amulet that speaks directly to her. Emily's mother gets swallowed by a giant tentacled monster who disappears into another world. Emily and Navin quickly follow after, and begin a quest to navigate this strange world in search of their mother. An air of suspense hangs over readers as they follow Emily and Navin on a journey that teaches them about survival, loss, and power. Emily is a strong and powerful heroine, but little development is given to her brother's character. The characters from the other world are intriguing, but many are just introduced, which makes one wonder what Kibuishi is leading up to. The book does not come to a nice, neat conclusion, but leaves readers hanging to see how things will progress for our young heroes. The artwork is full of depth and emotion, and it will be interesting to see how Kibuishi progresses as an author. Readers who enjoy The First Escape of the Dopple Ganger Chronicles, will also appreciate this unusual book.

Bud, Not Buddy

Bud, Not Buddy by, Christopher Paul Curtis. ISBN-13: 978-0385323062

This 2000 Newberry winner is the heartwarming story of Bud Caldwell, an African American orphan on the run in the midst of the great depression-- searching for the man he believes to be his father. This man, Herman E. Calloway, and his band, the Dusky Devastators of the Depression, may not be exactly what Bud was looking for, but they were what he was meant to find.

The City of Ember

The City of Ember by, Jeanne DuPrau. ISBN-13: 978-0375822735

Deep under the earth, exists a mysterious city named Ember. As far as the city's inhabitants know, they are the only life that exists. Unfortunately, things in their city are starting to fall apart. As the vasts storerooms for supplies become more and more empty, Doon Harrow and Lina Mayfleet begin to realize that Ember faces certain doom and that they might be the only two able to stop it.

Igraine the Brave

Igraine the Brave by, Cornelia Funke. ISBN-13: 978-0439903790

Igraine, born into a family of magicians, desperately wishes that she could become a brave and gallant knight. When her next door neighbor, the Baroness, has a visit from her nephew Osmund, Igraine might just get her wish. Osmund plans to steal the magic singing books from Igraine's family, and since her parents accidentally turned themselves into pigs, it will be up to Igraine to save the day!

Bella at Midnight

Bella at Midnight by, Diane Stanley. ISBN-13: 978-0060775735

This charming fairy tale will enchant readers from this kingdom to the next. Bella, who's mother died in childbirth, is sent off to be raised by a nursemaid in a nearby village. This nursemaid, who was also put in charge of nursing the youngest prince, is a kind sensible woman who raises Bella the best that she can. Bella and the prince, Julian, become the closest of friends whose lives are inexplicably intertwined together. This heartwarming story lures readers into considering notions of heroism, royalty, and friendship.

The Suite Life on Deck

O'Connell, P. (2008). The Suite Life on Deck. Disney Channel

Disney's The Sweet Life on Deck, a spin-off of The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, is an overacted slapstick that takes place on a cruise liner. Bailey Pickett and Cody Martin may have broken up, but they sure haven't gotten over each other. Bailey's roommate, London Tipton, tries to cheer her up by taking Bailey to talk to their teacher, Miss Tutweiler, about break ups. Miss Tutweiler leads them to her room-- a pink frilly suite with dozens of cats crawling throughout. Cody, on the other hand, joins the Brotherhood of the Hooded Brothers monastery. Cody's brother, Zack and his roommate Woody Blend, go to the monastery to rescue him.

The main theme of the show, being the different ways girls and guys deal with break-ups, encourages viewers to behave in absurdly dramatic ways. The stereotype is that guys, after a break-up, should swear off girls. Girls, on the other hand, should eat ice cream, get mani-pedis, and dress cats up in frilly pink dresses. Neither character came to any real resolution, leading me to believe that this depressing break-up theme will last for a few more episodes. The characters are all complete stereotypes; there is the smart boy with the cool, trouble-making brother, the nerdy sidekick, the token African American boy, a farm girl, a rich girl, and a quirky teacher. This is an immensely popular show, and many tweens will be emulating the histrionics of the characters from The Suite Life on Deck.

This Book Is Not Good For You

This Book Is Not Good For You by, Pseudonymous Bosch. ISBN-13: 978-0316040860

The third book in the Secret series will not leave readers disappointed by this delicious treat! Our heroes, Cass, Max-Ernest, and Yo-Yogi continue upon their dangerous missions with the Terces Society to try to stop the evil Miss Mauvais and Dr. L. In this story they will face new dangers and mysteries as they explore ancient Aztec mysteries surrounding chocolate. Cass' mother gets secretly kidnapped and held hostage for a magic tuning fork that Cass was supposed to bring in to the Terces Society. Will Cass betray her friends to save her mother? What are the true powers behind this tuning fork?

This book is delicious-- and not just because it is about chocolate. The second book in the series might have lost a bit of the momentum of the first, but Pseudonymous Bosch has gotten right back on track with third. Yo-Yogi is an established and interesting character and Cass and Max-Ernst have become slightly less eccentric-- thus making it easier for kids to relate to them. This is accentuated by the fact that all three kids come from different types of families and thereby offer a range of family types to be emulated. The plot moves quickly, the action is fast-paced and funny, and the author's tone is delightfully unique. Like in the first two books, Bosch speaks directly to readers, explaining to them the grave danger that reading the book could put them in. Readers can enjoy a chocolate glossary at the end of the story.

The Cabinet of Wonders: The Kronos Chronicles Book 1

The Cabinet of Wonders by, Marie Rutkoski ISBN-13: 978-0374310264

This fabulous story, set in an alternate 16th century Bohemia, tells of a time when magic was possible. Mikhail Kronos is a metalworker with a special gift--his tin creations can come to life! After Mikhail was commissioned by the Prince of Bohemia to build an extraordinary clock tower, the prince steals Mikhail's eyes! Mikhail's daughter, Petra Kronos, sets off on a mission to find the Prince of Bohemia and steal back her father's eyes. So begins an epic adventure that will draw readers into The Kronos Chronicles.

The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg

The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg by, Rodman Philbrick. ISBN-13:978-0-439-66818-7

Homer P. Figg is a big, fat liar. Okay, maybe he's not so big or fat, but he can lie better than a pig can stink. Homer sets off on a wild adventure shortly after his no-good uncle Squinton Leach sells Homer's older brother, Harold, to be conscripted into the Union Army. Set in the 1860's, this humorous look at the Civil War era touches upon heavy topics like slavery and war with a lightness that keeps the story appealing for readers. The shoeless, twelve year old protagonist sets off across the country on a quest to save Harold. Along the way, Philbrick pits Homer against a host of unsavory characters in order to introduce readers to the dirty truths of U.S. history. Readers can't help but consider slavery and the Underground Railroad, or the ugly realities of war, while anxiously awaiting the next big whopper that Homer P. Figg is going to dream up. Whether he is impersonating a pig boy for the travelling medicine show, hoodwinking a couple of professional hoodwinkers, or stealing a hot air balloon from the Union army, Homer P. Figg's exploits will entertain and delight readers in this 2010 Newberry Honor winning book.

39 Clues: The Maze of Bones

The Maze of Bones by, Rick Riordan. ISBN-13:978-0-545-24365-0

Book one in the 39 Clues series is an action-packed, page gripping adventure that will send readers racing out to pick up the next book featuring the Cahill siblings. Amy and Dan Cahill find each other as annoying as any brother and sister do. But a string of outrageous events helps them to realize that all they have in this world is each other. Years before, Amy and Dan's parents both died in mysterious fire. Now, with the death of their grandmother, Grace, the two are plunged into a mysterious challenge that might just alter the course of human history. Amy and Dan better act fast, because there are other teams searching for the clues-- teams that are willing to do anything to get what they want. The heroes are believable and their sibling bickering makes them easy to relate to. The villains are devious, dastardly, and dangerous. The humorous story is fast-paced, exciting, and full of suspense. Rick Riordan has written a story complete with fires that burn down houses, bombs that blast museums, lightning charged mysterious goo, historical facts that are actually interesting, skeleton filled catacombs, people burning millions of dollars, and a cat who likes red snapper. It will be fascinating to see how book two relates-- while Riordan mapped the storyline for the ten book series, other authors will write the projected nine remaining books. Luckily, readers, who are left in a lurch at the end of the first book, can immediately go pick up the next book and decide for themselves. The book contains collector's cards, which contain clues relating to the puzzle. Scholastic has also developed a website where students can play the game and enter to win over $100,000 worth of prizes.

The Golden Compass

The Golden Compass by, Philip Pullman. ISBN-10: 0-440-41832-1

Pullman has created an absolute masterpiece in the His Dark Materials trilogy. The first book, The Golden Compass, tells the story of Lyra Belacqua, and her daemon and constant companion, Pantalaimon. Lyra is a brave and heroic character whose exploits readers will love to follow. She encounters gypsies, witches, stolen children, and armored bears. Pullman deftly weaves together an extraordinary adventure with rich characters, strange creatures, perilous danger, hidden philosophical nuggets, and a lot of heart.

Twilight

Twilight by, Stephanie Meyer. ISBN-13: 978-0-316-16017-9

Isabella Swan moves to Forks, Washington to live with her father, Charlie. She feels an immediate attraction to Edward Cullen, a beautiful and withdrawn boy at her high school. Edward, who was initially repulsed by Isabella, eventually warms to her and brings Isabella to meet his unusual family. The two fall deeply in love, immersed completely in their passionate romance. Isabella finally learns Edward's dark secret, but at what cost?

Twilight is a perfect book for tweens and teens. Meyer painstakingly creates the teenage drama that high-school students live. The book's wild popularity is due, in part to the rich descriptions of what it is like to be in high school. Kids can relate to Isabelle. They can relate to what she's going through. Throw in a few vampires, and we've got a smash hit on our hands.

Although the Twilight saga is currently as popular as Coca-Cola, the book does have a few flaws. For instance, the main character is about as pathetic of a female protagonist as it gets. She is hopelessly in love, terribly clumsy, and doesn't seem to think about or do anything that doesn't revolve around the cute guy she likes. But with a book like this, it doesn't matter. So, pop open that can of coke, sit back, and enjoy this delightfully dark, teen vampire tale.

Gaia Girls: Enter the Earth

Enter the Earth by, Lee Welles. ISBN-10: 1-933609-00-1

Welles has written a wonderfully delightful story that speaks to the environmental and societal challenges that occur in modern society. Elizabeth Angier lives on Three Oaks Farm, in a fertile valley that contains housing subdivisions, large estates, and a number of family farms which become threatened by the arrival of the Harmony Farms Corporation. Gaia, the living entity of the Earth, speaks to Elizabeth about the importance of caring for the planet, and guides her on a mission to help save it. This is the first in a series of four books entitled, The Gaia Girls.

Taylor Swift: You Belong With Me

Borchetta, S., Chapman, N., & Swift, T (Producers). (2008). Taylor Swift You belong with me. Big Machine: Tennessee.

Winner of the MTV Best Female Video Award, Taylor Swift has made her way into the hearts of teens across the nation. Soft and ethereal, Taylor Swift is a beautiful performer. Though some music critics have called her pitchy, American tweens and teens will be quick to defend their idol. You Belong to Me is a song about a classic love drama that so many teens can relate to. Swift sings about her love for the boy next door who is dating the captain of the cheerleading team. The video shows them writing notes to each other, the football game, and the big dance. Swift carries herself with respect and is a positive role model for tween audiences everywhere. In the video, she dresses like a normal girl-- while lounging in her room she wears tee shirts, glasses, and has her hair back in a ponytail. The song's lyrics speak to teens who might not be the most popular. In this regard, Swift has done the music industry a great favor. She is one of the few artists who offer that image to teens. The music is basic pop with a country flavor-- a few guitar cords, steady drumbeat, and a catchy, cheerful chorus make the song easy to enjoy. Musically, it is about as interesting as every pop song ever written, but Taylor's message and image make this a smash hit with tweens and their parents alike.

Justin Bieber: Baby

Stewert, C., The-Dream, & Milian, C. (Producers), Bieber, J., Stewert, C., The-Dream, Bridges, C. & Milian, C. (Writers) (2010). Justin Bieber Baby. Island Records: New York.

Justin Bieber, teen sensation, has melted hearts all over the country with his pop hit, Baby. The lyrics describe Bieber talking to his first love, telling her all the sweet things he can in order to win her back. The song is simplistic and the music is unremarkable, but Bieber's fans are head over heels for this one. The song does feature a short segment by Ludacris, which will only help to cement the cool factor into the minds of Bieber fans.

Miley Cyrus: Party in the USA

Dr. Luke (Producer), Gottwald, L., Claude Kelly, & Jessica Cornish (Writers). (2009). Miley Cyrus Party in the USA [video recording]. Hollywood.

Stomping her dirty cowboy boots and shaking her hips, Miley shows she knows how to have a good time. The video, about her moving from Nashville to L.A., talks to kids about the feelings of uncomfortability people experience about moving to a new place. Miley tells kids that even though things are different all over the country, they can still turn on the radio and hear their favorite songs, and then everything will be okay.

Syren

Syren by, Angie Sage. ISBN-10:0060882107

Seventh son of the seventh son, Septimus Heap has a powerful destiny. In this, the fifth book in the series, Septimus gets trapped on an island with Jenna and Beetle while they wait for their dragon, Spit Fyre to recover from a lightning injury. Septimus discovers that the island is inhabited by Syrah Syara, a 500 year-old apprentice who is controlled by a dangerous spirit named Syren. The story has many subplots that tie together nicely to create a grand adventure that is every bit as excellent as the rest of the series.

Dragonsdale

Dragonsdale by, Salamanda Drake. ISBN-13: 978-0439871730

This heartwarming story is a bit of a cross between the new fantasy dragon stories with the classic girl loves horses story. Except the horses are dragons. They live in fireproof stalls, get saddled and groomed, and fly through various obstacle courses with their riders. The story features a dragon riding school run by Huw, a gruff man whose wife died after falling of her dragon. Consequently, he has forbidden his daughter, and our hero, Clara, from ever riding a dragon. She cleans the muck from the stalls and takes time for her favorite dragon, Skydancer. Skydancer is a wild, untamed dragon who seems to love Clara as much as she loves him. Clara also must deal with the Lord Torin's horrible daughter Hortense, whose spiteful ways seems to cause much of the book's action. Hortense uses whips to beat the dragons, which the author has used to take her stand against animal cruelty.

The story is light, the characters are girly, and the relationships between people are a major focus of the story. The plot moves slowly and doesn't really do more than scratch the surface of the fantasy genre. While there are a variety of mythical creatures, they are all portrayed as parallel to other, more familiar ones. Drake claims to be 16 years old, and it shows in the depth of her story. It is a delightful book, but don't expect anything more than that.

N.E.R.D.S.

National Espionage, Rescue, and Defense Society by, Michael Buckley. ISBN-13: 978-0-8109-8918-4

Jackson Jones was undoubtedly the most popular guy in school. That is, until the day he got braces. Instantly, Jackson went from adored to shunned-- causing him to take a good look at the type of person he used to be. In this amusing nerdy, spy adventure, Buckley does an excellent job of talking to kids about the fact that popularity isn't what makes people cool.

The safety of the entire world is at risk and it is up to the super top-secret team of misfits to derail the evil plot of a dastardly villain. The team consists of six super nerds--kids who get wedgied in the school bathroom and then save the world using inhalers, braces, and an enormous pair of gleaming buck-teeth. These super nerds know that they better move quick if they have any chance of thwarting the beauty-pageant assassin working for an evil mastermind determined to destroy the world. These characters are easy for kids to understand; Buckley provides excellent descriptions of normal childhood dramas, helping readers relate to these nerdy superheroes. Full of action and antics, this is a great book for reluctant readers and outcasts. The story is fast-paced, the plot is easy to follow, and the creativity that Buckley has used in writing this story will amuse and delight his readers.

The Lightning Thief

The Lightning Thief by, Rick Riordon. ISBN-13: 978-0786838653

There are many books that become overnight smash sensations, but this one really deserves the fame. Riordon has crafted an ingenious book, carefully melding together the world of the Greek gods with that of 21st century youth. The result is a marvel that educates and entertains readers who will have a difficult time putting down this book. Our hero, Percy Jackson, is a boy who suffers from ADHD and dyslexia. His best friend, Grover, turns out to be a satyr while Percy discovers that his own father was actually a Greek god. This, and a giant minotaur that attacked Percy, Grover, and his mother, lead Percy to Camp Half-Blood where Percy will discover his destiny. The action-packed adventure is exciting and intelligent. The characters are well-developed and slide gracefully between the world of the mundane and heroic battles with mythical creatures. Percy, who is granted a quest to find the magical lightning bolt belonging to Zeus, will travel from Olympus to the Underworld in an attempt to divert a massive battle from erupting between the gods and goddesses themselves. This, the first book in the Percy Jackson series is an unbelievably amazing story that begins an epic series that will be known for generations. Fans of Harry Potter will be enthralled with this magical delight!