Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Steampunk

Worldcat Summary: 

In an alternate 1914 Europe, Austrian Prince Alek, on the run from forces who are attempting to take over the globe with machinery, forms an alliance with Deryn, who is learning to fly genetically-engineered beasts.

Bookskoetter Rating: 4/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

For those, like myself, that are new to the steampunk genre (Huh? What is steampunk?), Leviathan is a great place to start!  It is also wholly unlike Scott Westerfeld's other well-known series, Uglies (which I loved!).  I found myself captivated by this alternate World War I story, and intrigued by the awesome steampunk art peppered throughout the book.  I am often annoyed by artwork in novels, because I like to be able to imagine scenes from the book in my own way. However, the artwork in this novel really helps steampunk newbies like myself picture the machinery and genetically altered creatures found in the story.  The one thing that annoyed me about the novel was that the ending comes to absolutely no conclusion.  It's almost as if they decided the book was "long enough" and that they should stop at the end of a random chapter, and continue the story with the sequel, Goliath (which sadly, I will have to wait to read this summer).  I think that this novel has appeal for fans of many genres, including adventure, sci-fi, fantasy, and historical fiction.  I've noticed that the cover seems to be mainly drawing the attention of guys.  However, I think that girls who read this novel will find a lot to appreciate as well, including strong, independent, and intelligent female characters.

Shine by Lauren Myracle

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Worldcat Summary: 

When her best friend falls victim to a vicious hate crime, sixteen-year-old Cat sets out to discover the culprits in her small North Carolina town.


Bookskoetter Rating: 4/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

Shine has been in the news a lot lately after the author was mistakenly told that the book had been named a National Book Award Finalist.  This suspenseful mystery is set in a religious, small-town in North Carolina.  The author effectively transports readers to this gossipy, small community, where everyone knows everyone and everything - or at least they think they do. It delves into several topics that are currently popular in young adult novels, including homosexuality, corruption, meth addiction, hate crimes, and rape.  However the author balances the topics in such a way that the overall effect is believable and not overdone. I would recommend this novel to mystery fans that crave a suspenseful and serious, yet hopeful ride.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Worldcat Summary: 

When two teens, one gay and one straight, meet accidentally and discover that they share the same name, their lives become intertwined as one begins dating the other's best friend, who produces a play revealing his relationship with them both. 

Bookskoetter Rating: 4/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

This was a pretty good book!  It covers the somewhat controversial topic of homosexuality in a balanced and humorous way.  I will warn readers that it does contain some language and crude humor.  Personally, I didn't find those features offensive - in fact, it was often done in a light and funny way that added to the characterization in the novel. However, some readers may be offended.  I listened to this book on audiobook, which I felt was very well done!  I am impressed with how well the two authors of the novel teamed up to create an excellent story.  Each author writes in the voice of one of the two main characters.  I would recommend this book to those wanting a light, funny story (although there are some serious moments in the book), with a hopeful ending.

A Dog's Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Worldcat Summary: 

This is the remarkable story of one endearing dog's search for his purpose over the course of several lives. More than just another charming dog story, this touches on the universal quest for an answer to life's most basic question: Why are we here? Surprised to find himself reborn as a rambunctious golden haired puppy after a tragically short life as a stray mutt, Bailey's search for his new life's meaning leads him into the loving arms of 8 year old Ethan. During their countless adventures Bailey joyously discovers how to be a good dog. But this life as a beloved family pet is not the end of Bailey's journey. Reborn as a puppy yet again, Bailey wonders, will he ever find his purpose? Heartwarming, insightful, and often laugh out loud funny, this book is not only the emotional and hilarious story of a dog's many lives, but also a dog's eye commentary on human relationships and the unbreakable bonds between man and man's best friend. This story teaches us that love never dies, that our true friends are always with us, and that every creature on earth is born with a purpose.

Bookskoetter Rating:=5/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

I LOVED this book!  I am thrilled that it made it to the list of next year's Gateway nominees, because I can definitely see it being a favorite, especially among dog lovers.  Cameron does a great job telling this often hilarious story from a dog's point of view.  I literally laughed out loud reading the dog's perspective of being house trained!  I don't currently have a dog, but I know that I will be thinking about this book the next time we get a puppy.  I would recommend this book to anyone who likes dogs - both young adults and adults!  (In fact, I've already spoken to several students and teachers who loved it!)

The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Worldcat Summary: 

In the months after her sister dies, seventeen-year-old Lennie falls into a love triangle and discovers the strength to follow her dream of becoming a musician. 

Bookskoetter Rating:=4/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

Yay!  Another good read.  I have to say, I really surprised myself by liking this book (normally, I cannot be bothered to read realistic fiction starring grief and a love triangle). However, the protagonist of the story, a spunky girl with an interesting family, really won me over.  I predict that this book, which is on the list of next year's Gateway nominees, will be a favorite - especially among girls.  I would recommend it to readers that enjoy realistic fiction that is sad, yet hopeful - especially those that enjoyed the book If I Stay by Gayle Forman.

The Scorch Trials by James Dashner

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Dystopian / Sci-Fi

Worldcat Summary: 

After surviving horrific conditions in the Maze, Thomas is entrapped, along with nineteen other boys, in a scientific experiment designed to observe their responses and gather data believed to be essential for the survival of the human race. 

Bookskoetter Rating:=4/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

This is the sequel to the Maze Runner.  I actually finished it a couple of days after the Maze Runner, but am late in reviewing it!  As with the first book, I felt it was creative, interesting, and fast-paced, even if the dialogue was a little obnoxious at times.  The ending will leave readers dying to know what happens next, but provides enough resolution to prevent readers from being frustrated.  I have the Death Cure on hold, but it may be awhile before I get my hands on it!  Keep your eyes out for a review in the coming weeks!

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Dystopian / Sci-Fi

Worldcat Summary: 

Sixteen-year-old Thomas wakes up with no memory in the middle of a maze and realizes he must work with the community in which he finds himself if he is to escape. 

Bookskoetter Rating:=4/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

Yay!  Another good book! (Three in a row - wow!)  I know, I am definitely behind-the-times on reading this book, but it was worth the wait!  It is actually a current Truman Award nominee (for grades 6-8), and I have to say I did find it to be the language and dialogue to be a little less sophisticated than some of the high school novels that I have read recently.  However, the plot is face-paced, intriguing, and action-packed, and so many of my high school students have raved to me about this book that I don't think the audience is limited to middle schoolers.  This is the first in a trilogy by Dashner, followed by the Scorch Trials (which I am about halfway through!) and the Death Cure.  I would recommend this series to fans of dystopian and adventure stories, especially those that enjoyed the Hunger Games.

Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic / Historical Fiction

Worldcat Summary: 

An angry, grieving seventeen-year-old musician facing expulsion from her prestigious Brooklyn private school travels to Paris to complete a school assignment and uncovers a diary written during the French revolution by a young actress attempting to help a tortured, imprisoned little boy--Louis Charles, the lost king of France.

Bookskoetter Rating:=4/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

Another great read!  I was thrilled when I heard that this book had made it to the 2012-2013 Gateway nominee list.  I was told that this novel fit in to the "historical fiction" genre, and was surprised when it began as a realistic fiction, angry-musician-with-issues novel.  The previously mentioned angry girl is refreshingly intelligent, and finds a diary written by an important figure who lived during the French Revolution during her and her father's stay with a French historian in Paris.  Forgive me for sounding cliche, but I have to say that Donnelly does a fantastic job of making history "come to life" for readers. The novel is a well-written, rich tale with characters that readers will be able to relate to.  My only complaints are that the end ties together a little too nicely, and the protagonist can be annoying angsty at times.  However, I would still recommend this novel, especially to fans of historical fiction, and to fans of novels featuring characters dealing with serious issues.

Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Dystopian / Fantasy

Worldcat Summary: To free herself from an upcoming arranged marriage, Claudia, the daughter of the Warden of Incarceron, a futuristic prison with a mind of its own, decides to help a young prisoner escape.

 
Bookskoetter Rating:=4.5/5

Bookskoetter Review: 
What a fantastic book!  I listened to it on audio book, and could hardly keep myself out of my car.  In fact, I brought the audio book inside and listened to it while I did housework (I did a lot of housework for a couple of days, just so I could listen to it!).  I even tried doing yoga do it, but the thrilling tale does not exactly lend itself to relaxation. This book will keep readers on the edge of their seats, and intrigued with the compelling world that somehow manages to seem both futuristic and archaic.  I would definitely recommend this novel to readers who enjoy fantasy, science fiction / dystopian, and adventure novels!

Sea by Heidi Kling

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic fiction

Worldcat Summary: 

Despite recurring nightmares about her mother's death and her own fear of flying, fifteen-year-old Sienna accepts her father's birthday gift to fly to Indonesia with his team of disaster relief workers to help victims of a recent tsunami, never suspecting that this experience will change her life forever.

Bookskoetter Rating:=2.5/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

Those who have been reading my reviews for awhile know that I am not a huge fan of realistic fiction, especially when the plot is centered on a love story.  Therefore, it is quite natural for me to rate this novel a little lower than it probably deserves.  The story is actually pretty interesting.  It is full of Indonesian cultural tidbits, and reminds me of the culture shock that I experienced when I studied abroad in college.  It does feature a fairly mushy love story, is a bit dramatic, and has an ending that ties up a little too nicely.  Nevertheless, I would recommend this novel to teens who enjoy realistic fiction with love, multiculturalism, and drama.

Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Fantasy

Worldcat Summary: 

A wealthy sorcerer's invitation to sing with his automaton leads seventeen-year-old Nimira, whose family's disgrace brought her from a palace to poverty, into political intrigue, enchantments, and a friendship with a fairy prince who needs her help.

Bookskoetter Rating:=3/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

I actually finished reading this book about a three weeks ago, and am just now reviewing it.  When I was reading the book, I remember finding the plot interesting and fairly fast-paced.  However, now that I am actually reviewing it, I am having a difficult time truly remembering what it was about.  This is partly due to the fact that I read four books in one week (I was sick with the stomach flu during Thanksgiving Break).  Another factor, however, is that while the book was good, it wasn't particularly memorable.  I would recommend it to fantasy fans, especially those that aren't necessarily interested in classic fantasies (dwarves, elves, etc...), but who enjoy books like Fire and Graceling by Kristin Cashore.

Sorta Like a Rock Star by Matthew Quick

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Worldcat Summary: 

Although seventeen-year-old Amber Appleton is homeless, living in a school bus with her unfit mother, she is a relentless optimist who visits the elderly at a nursing home, teaches English to Korean Catholic women with the use of rhythm and blues music, and befriends a solitary Vietnam veteran and his dog, but eventually she experiences one burden more than she can bear and slips into a deep depression.

Bookskoetter Rating:=2/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

I won't lie:  The way this book was written drove me completely insane!  I almost stopped reading it after the first three or four chapters!  It is written in first person from a the perspective of a teenage girl that definitely talks like a teen and frequently ends sentences with phrases such as, "Word," and "True? True."  I found the language to be completely obnoxious, but I don't know if teen readers would be quite as annoyed.  As for the storyline, it took awhile to take off, but actually ended up being okay.  I was determined to give this book a one rating at first, but try as I might, I couldn't help myself from liking and rooting for the protagonist, who was a raving optimist who found herself facing a hopeless situation.  I would recommend this to teens craving a story with a spunky and optimist twist on real-life issues.

The Five Flavors of Dumb by Antony John

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Worldcat Summary: 

Eighteen-year-old Piper becomes the manager for her classmates' popular rock band, called Dumb, giving her the chance to prove her capabilities to her parents and others, if only she can get the band members to get along.

Bookskoetter Rating:=3.5/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

This book was pretty all right!  The main character, Piper, is profoundly hearing impaired, which adds an interesting element to the story.  And happily, the author does an excellent job of helping readers see Piper as just an ordinary teenager with ordinary problems (instead of highlighting the differences, as many YA authors have done).  While there are a few moments that aren't very believable, for the most part, the author has done a good job of putting together a making-of-a-band story that is actually pretty realistic.  Unfortunately, the book wraps things up a little too neatly for my taste. Even so, I would recommend this book to fans of realistic fiction who both crave a story about a real-life-teenager with real-life issues, and a story that is not over-the-top emotional.

The Last Summer of the Death Warriors by Francisco X. Stork

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Worldcat Summary: 

Seventeen-year-old Pancho is bent on avenging the senseless death of his sister, but after he meets D.Q, who is dying of cancer, and Marisol, one of D.Q.'s caregivers, both boys find their lives changed by their interactions.

Bookskoetter Rating:=2/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

For some reason, when I saw the cover and title of this book, I was expected something akin to "The Last Samurai."  I was way off.  Again, I didn't hate the book.  I just didn't love it.  It's possible that I am so tired of realistic fiction that I would rate anything realistic low.  Who knows?  (On a side note, can I say how ready I am to read some amazing fantasy / sci-fi / dystopian novels?  I am getting ready to start an audiobook called Incarceron by Catherine Fisher, which I have heard is awesome!  Can't wait!).  Back to the point, I didn't find the plot particularly imaginative or believable.  It took me almost a week and a half to read this book - not because it was long or complex, but because it just didn't capture my interest.  I think that teen readers that enjoy realistic fiction about people persevering in difficult situations may find this hopeful read more enjoyable than I did.

Mistwood by Leah Cypress

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Fantasy

Worldcat Summary: 

Brought back from the Mistwood to protect the royal family, a girl who has no memory of being a shape-shifter encounters political and magical intrigue as she struggles with her growing feelings for the prince.

Bookskoetter Rating:=2.5/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

I was really excited about reading this book, because I was in the mood for a good fantasy.  I'll be honest: I've been pretty burnt out on all of this realistic fiction.  It definitely wasn't a bad book.  In fact, I found the plot and basic storyline of Mistwood to be very interesting.  However, the plot and main character reminded me a lot of the book Fire by Kristin Cashore, which in my opinion, was much better.  The plot was not well executed.  The author could have done a better job making the storyline both meld together better and be more believable. In addition, I felt that the author did not do an effective job of helping readers relate to the protagonist.  All of that being said, I still think that many teen readers would enjoy this title, especially those that enjoy imaginative fantasies such as Fire or Graceling by Kristin Cashore.

Potential Gateway Nominee Ratings Part 1

As I mentioned in a previous post, I am helping to select next year's Gateway nominees by reading and rating a list of 26 books from best to worst.  Here is my list so far (1 being best):

1. Shipbreaker

2. Rot & Ruin

3. Matched

4. Before I Fall

5. Split

6. All Unquiet Things

7. Bruiser

8. The Other Side of Dark

The Other Side of Dark by Sarah Smith

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Supernatural

Worldcat Summary: 

Since losing both of her parents, fifteen-year-old Katie can see and talk to ghosts, which makes her a loner until fellow student Law sees her drawing of a historic house and together they seek a treasure rumored to be hidden there by illegal slave-traders.

Bookskoetter Rating:=1.5/5

Bookskoetter Review: 

Meh.  I didn't really enjoy this book.  The plot was sort of okay, but I had a huge problem with the lack of character development for everyone in this novel.  The two main characters, who alternately told their parts of the story, acted like middle schoolers, but were really in high school.  The first fourth of the book they seemed so much younger than they were supposed to be - and then BAM!  Out of nowhere, they have a near-sexual experience, and start cussing.  I just didn't find it believable.  The two are then apparently in a relationship that the author neglects writing about (too many other "exciting" things going on apparently), which made the lack of character development suffer even more. The only good part about this book is the interesting history that it offers about slavery in the 1800's. Other than that - Boo.  I suppose some students may enjoy this novel, but I don't plan on recommending it.

Bruiser by Neal Shusterman

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic (with a hint of the supernatural)

Worldcat Summary: 

Inexplicable events start to occur when sixteen-year-old twins Tennyson and Brontë befriend a troubled and misunderstood outcast, aptly nicknamed Bruiser, and his little brother, Cody.

Bookskoetter Rating: 2.5/5

Bookskoetter Review: 
While I found the plot of this book to be very intriguing, I did not like the way it was written. I have the following issues with this book:

• Too many cheesy moments.  The ending was particularly nauseating.
• Told from four different people's perspective.  This was not only confusing, but obnoxious on audiobook.
• Bronte (one of the main characters) was way too mature for her age.  Her wisdom was not believable.

That being said, the plot has a lot to offer.  I also have to admit that it is possible that I didn't enjoy this book because I didn't like the work of the four voice actors who performed on the audiobook.  Despite the issues that I had with this book, I think that many teen readers may enjoy it.  Especially those who enjoy a realistic dramatic story with a hint of the paranormal.

All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Murder Mystery

Worldcat Summary: 

After the death of his ex-girlfriend Carly, Northern California high school student Neily joins forces with Carly's cousin Audrey to try to solve her murder.

Bookskoetter Rating: 3/5 (Originally was rated a 2.5, but I changed my mind!)

Bookskoetter Review: 
While I found this well-written murder mystery to be intriguing, it certainly wasn't a page-turner.  The story, which is told from alternating points of view, is very slow at times, which I believe will cause many teen readers to lose interest.  However, it does have a few fast-paced parts of the plot, and the ending may surprise readers.  Readers who enjoy thoughtful, detailed stories with detailed emotional descriptions will enjoy this murder mystery.

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Audience: Young Adult

Genre: Realistic Fiction?

Worldcat Summary: 

After she dies in a car crash, teenage Samantha relives the day of her death over and over again until, on the seventh day, she finally discovers a way to save herself.

Bookskoetter Rating: 3.5/5

Bookskoetter Review: 
I listened to this book on audio, and I have to admit that I hated it at first.  It was like Mean Girls meets Groundhog Day.  It didn't help that Sarah Drew, the person reading the audiobook, was extremely effective at voicing shallow, teen aged girls.  However, as much as I whined about this book to my family and friends, I ended up enjoying it by the end.  In fact, there were several times that I was tempted to sit out in my car in the garage just so I could listen to the story.  I think that this book will be a hit with teen girls who like a good dramatic love story.  In fact, I have already recommended this book to a student, who read it in one night (and it is a long book!) and brought it back to me the next morning raving about it.  I can definitely see it being a Gateway Award nominee next year.