Dark Star by Bethany Frenette-ESSENTIAL

Frenette, Bethany, Dark Star. Hyperion, 2012. Pgs. 356. Language: PG, Violence: PG, Sexual Content: PG

Audrey Whittcomb is the daughter of one of the most famous superheroes, her mom, Morning Star. Audrey, however, has never thought of saving the world, because her super power is Knowing: seeing into the future. When girls from her school start disappearing and her mom starts getting overprotective, Audrey starts investigating what’s going on. She soon figures out that her mom doesn’t fight the traditional criminal, she fights Harrowers-an ancient evil that was buried beneath the Earth eons ago. Now some have escaped and they want Audrey dead. Can Audrey master her powers in time to save herself and other Kin (people with superpowers)?

The characters are likable and easy to empathize with. The plot is intense and has lots of twists. Definitely set up for sequel,  paranormal fans will devour this book and wish there was a sequel already. MS, HS. ESSENTIAL. Reviewer: Kira M, Youth Services Librarian, WHI Public Library.

Do you Know Dewey? by Brian P. Cleary –ADVISABLE

Cleary, Brian P. and Illustrated by Lew-Vriethoff, Joanne Do you Know Dewey? Exploring the Dewey Decimal System 32 pgs. 21st Century, 2012. $20.34 (Library Binding Price).  (Rating: G)

A beautifully illustrated book with a fun rhyming style. It goes through each section of the Dewey and features bright colorful illustrations that are fun and cute.

I think this was a darling book, and would be helpful in explaining Dewey to a second or first grader. The author did a good job of making an exceptionally boring topic actually interesting and even look like fun!

EL –ADVISABLE Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary Librarian & Author.

The Birds of Bethlehem by Tomie dePaola – NOT RECOMMENDED

dePaola, Tomie The Birds of Bethlehem 40 pgs. Nancy Paulsen Books, 2012. $11.55. (Rating: G)

During the Nativity, many animals were probably present –this is the story of the Birds point of view. They spent time chatting and when something interesting starts to happen, the birds are very interested. Turns out birds were able to witness the spectacular events.

I know this author/illustrator is wildly popular, but I thought this book was unnecessary. The bird’s point of view in this book failed to provide a new perspective to this much-told story. This book basically just rehashed the typical version. As a librarian possibly wanting to introduce a new reader to the nativity story, you could do much better than this book.

EL –NOT RECOMMENDED Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary Librarian & Author.

Peace and Quiet (Mr. Badger and Mrs. Fox Book #4) by Brigitte Luciani and Eve Tharlet –ADVISABLE

Luciani, Brigitte, and Tharlet, Eve Peace and Quiet (Mr. Badger and Mrs. Fox Book #4) 32 pgs. Graphic Universe, 2012. $6.95.  (Rating: G)

Its going to be winter so the fox’s and the badgers are all stuck together in their underground den. Their bodies are preparing for winter in their own ways –fatter badgers and furrier foxes. Ginger, the little fox, is so upset when the badgers start to sleep day and night, but some fun with her mom outside of the den helps keep her spirits up.

I am new to this series and was so confused for most of the story. Apparently this is a merged family –the fox lady married the badger guy. I had trouble telling the badger kids apart and when dialogue got chaotic (cabin fever), I just wanted to stop reading. I am a big fan of graphic novel style books for younger students, and despite my comments, I think students will enjoy this book since the illustrations are so darling!

EL -ADVISABLE Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary Librarian & Author.

Dangerous Waters: An Adventure of the Titanic by Gregory Mone –OPTIONAL

Mone, Gregory Dangerous Waters: An Adventure of the Titanic 240 pgs. Roaring Brook Press, 2012. $12.74.  (Rating: PG)

Patrick just wants to be a working man like his older brother, so when he gets a chance to join him in the boiler room on the maiden voyage of the Titanic –he jumps. But Patrick just isn't cut out for heavy labor and ends up as a steward for a rich book collector –Harry. Harry’s latest addition to his collection –a rare and old book called Essaies is much desired by more than one person on board, all of whom are willing to do anything to get it.

I was excited to read this book because I love Titanic stories, and the extra attention by providing a character that really existed, Harry, was intriguing. But overall it was a bit dry for me.  It felt like a really simple plot with simple characters –but drawn out into a book that was way too long to carry it off. When a reader already knows the ending (the sinking of the Titanic), the story better be pretty exciting, and this just wasn't. 

MS–OPTIONAL Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary Librarian & Author.

Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf by Curtis Jobling - ESSENTIAL

Jobling, Curtis Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf, 412 pgs. Viking, Penguin Group, 2011.   $16.99.  Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: G; Violence : PG13 . 

Drew wants to be a farmer, but when the sheep are suddenly afraid of him, and an evil beast murders his mother and leaves him for dead, Drew realizes that his life is destined to be different.  Drew is a shapeshifter, he can change into a werewolf at will.  When his father chases him away, Drew must make his own way in the wild forest called the Dyrewood.  He must learn to control the beast within, and embarks on an epic battle between good and evil, finding friends and making enemies along the way.  

I am excited to start this new series.  It is gripping and fast moving with enough violence to keep the teenage boys interested, but it’s mild enough for the weak to not gross out.  Can’t wait to read the next one! 

MS HS - ESSENTIAL  Lisa Media Specialist

A Stranger Came Ashore by Mollie Hunter - ADVISABLE

Hunter, Mollie A Stranger Came Ashore, 134 pgs. Kelpie Classics, 1975, 1994.  New edition, 2012. $9.95. Language: G ( 0 swears, 0 “f” ); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG.  

Robbie Henderson, a teen Shetlander, lived when the only transportation was horse and buggy.  He lived with his family near the sea.  His grandfather told him many tales of the Selkie Folk: seals that take on human form and lure unsuspecting islanders to their deaths.  A stranger, named Finn Learson, comes ashore after a shipwreck and falls in love with Robbie’s sister, Elspeth.  Robbie finds reasons to believe that Finn is the “Great Selkie” of lore.  He believes his sister is in danger and takes every opportunity he can to save her. 

Hunter creates a gripping folk tale from the British Isles.  The use of “common” speech by the characters contributes to the overall flavor of the story.  The book is hard to put down since Hunter creates such suspense throughout the novel.  This is a fun, cultural read. 

EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE. Reviewer: MOMMC

Dracula AND A Christmas Carol by Jennifer Adams - OPTIONAL

Adams, Jennifer Dracula: A Counting Primer and A Christmas Carol: A Colors Primer.  Illustrated by Alicon Oliver.  BOARD BOOKS.  Adams has taken on two more classic pieces of literature a created board books for the literary minded new parent.  Number five and six in the series don’t add anything new, except for the material.  You will love the illustrations and the glimpse into the novels.  However, I really wish Ms. Oliver would branch out from counting and colors.  There are other options – opposites, shapes, sounds, feelings, perhaps?  As charming as I find them, they are pretty limited in scope.   Pre-K – OPTIONAL. 

The Bell Bandit by Jacqueline Davies (The Lemonade Wars Book #3) –ESSENTIAL

Davies, Jacqueline The Bell Bandit (The Lemonade Wars Book #3) 192 pgs. Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 2012. $10.87.  (Rating: PG)

Evan and Jessie are going to spend some time at Grandma’s House. But things are different. A few weeks earlier there had been a fire at her house, and now Grandma was in the hospital. Worst of all Grandma isn't herself anymore and the bell that is really important to the family, is missing. Jessie makes friends with a neighbor boy who is unlike anyone she has ever met, and together they try to find the bell. The kids must learn to adjust and come together when Grandma goes missing.

I am new to this series, and even missing those first two in the series, I found this book fantastic and it could easily function as a standalone. It had all the life lessons that teachers, parents, and well-meaning grownups love but it was also, and more importantly, so-well written that I couldn't stop reading and really loved getting to know these characters. Students will easily relate to these characters and love the mystery of the missing bell!

ELEMENTARY–ESSENTIAL Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary Librarian & Author.

Behind the Bookcase by Mark Steensland –NOT RECOMMENDED

Steensland, Mark and Illustrated by Murphy, Kelly Behind the Bookcase 288 pgs. Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 2012. $12.21.  (Rating: PG)

Sarah’s family is trying to fix up their grandmothers house so they can sell it. Its more than spooky and after finding an interest note, Sarah pulls out a bookcase from the wall and falls into a world called Scotopia. It’s a creepy place, a land where shadows are born, and its ruled by the King of Cats. Sarah starts to think that something is wrong when she meets a boy with only half a face. Then she starts to meet more children that have met with misfortune in Scotopia. Can she save them and herself?

I was eager to read this book since it was featured at my pre-Halloween book fair and it was a big seller. Unfortunately it reminded me strongly of the most disturbing movie I have ever seen, Pans Labyrinth. I think that most children want to find a secret door to Narnia, not a door to a waking nightmare. Besides my fundamental distaste for this book, there were other issues. Poor character development; Sarah was incredibly bossy (the other characters couldn't even spit without consulting her), a questionable illustration, and the ending was a bit confusing. I wouldn't let this near my library collection.

ELEMENTARY–NOT RECOMMENDED Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary Librarian & Author.

Hop, Skip and Jump, Maisy! by Lucy Cousins -- ADVISABLE

Cousins, Lucy Hop, Skip and Jump, Maisy! A Maisy First Science Book. 16 pgs. Candlewick Press, 2012. $12.99. PICTURE BOOK.

Maisy has a very active life, wiggling and stretching when she gets up in the morning; running and kicking a ball during the day; and snuggling with her panda while falling asleep at night. In-between she manages many other activities -- making sure to stop for nutritious meals to keep herself going, of course.

Energetic toddlers and pre-schoolers will recognize Maisy's antics in their own play, and will enjoy pulling the tabs throughout this interactive picture book. Among other things, they can make Maisy touch her toes, jump rope, and snore. Maisy's busy schedule encourages children to stay active, while sidebars listing other animals who do similar tasks can help spur discussion. Although the paper is fairly sturdy, the many moving parts inside the book make it somewhat fragile; this one is more suitable for supervised play and may not last long in a library or classroom setting.

PRE-K -- ADVISABLE. Reviewed by: Caryn.

Welcome, Caller, This Is Chloe by Shelley Coriell - ADVISABLE

Coriell, Shelley Welcome, Caller, This Is Chloe. 320 pgs. Amulet Books, 2012. $16.95. Language: PG-13 Sexual Content: PG-13 Violence: PG-13.

Chloe Camden is on top of the world -- popular, bubbly, and known for being genuinely nice (if occasionally self-centered), she is one of the reigning queens of her high school. But when her best friend begins a smear campaign, Chloe quickly finds herself dethroned. To top it off, her independent study project is axed, so she has to join the school's troubled radio station in the hopes of rescuing her chance to graduate. As she learns how to connect with the lovable band of misfits on the station and develops her own call-in radio show, she discovers who she is and how to be a better friend.

This is a cute, uplifting book with a nice romance, good character growth, and enough serious moments to keep it from being too frothy.

HS - ADVISABLE. Reviewed by: Caryn.

Unbroken by Paula Morris - ADVISABLE

Morris, Paula Unbroken (a Ruined novel), 304 p. Point (Scholastic), FEBRUARY 2013.  $18.  

It’s been a year since Rebecca survived the incident in the New Orleans cemetery.  Now a new ghost has contacted Rebecca and he needs her help – back in New Orleans.  Luckily Dad is taking Rebecca and her best friend, Ling, to New Orleans for spring break.  Rebecca is happy to go, but a little worried, because things haven’t been great between her and Anton.  But someone wants revenge for last year’s death and a vengeful ghost will do anything to stop Rebecca from helping the blue-eyed boy.  And Anton wants nothing to do with another ghost.  This may tear Rebecca and Anton apart for good – if she can survive that long.  While Dark Souls (the 2^nd Ruined novel) was good, this one brings as back to New Orleans and Rebecca – so much more satisfying.  The ghostly bits are really well written and the tension is palpable.  Yum!  

MS, HS – ADVISABLE.  Cindy, Library Teacher

Rise of the Guardians: The Story of Jack Frost - OPTIONAL

McDoogle, Farrah  Rise of the Guardians: The Story of Jack Frost  Illustrated by Larry Navarro  Simon Spotlight, 2012.  $3.99  PICTURE BOOK  Content: PG.   

Jack Frost is a young boy who didn’t remember his past, but knew how to use his magical staff to create snow and frost in the world.  At first he used his magic to cause mischief and fun, but when the Guardians enlisted his help he started working for the good of children.  The Guardians include Santa Claus, Tooth Fairy, Easter Bunny and the Sandman.  Jack Frost along with his new friends has to fight against Pitch (the boogeyman) because he stole all children’s memories.  The Guardians prevail against Pitch in a final battle.  

This book is a quick summary based on a movie and doesn’t have a lot of story development.  The illustrations of Pitch are dark and menacing, a little too scary for my 3 year old.  It’s an interesting enough story, but the overall quality of this particular book isn’t great.  

EL (K-3)-OPTIONAL.  Reviewer, C. Peterson

Sever by Lauren Destefano - OPTIONAL

Destefano, Lauren Sever, 384 p. Simon and Schuster, FEBRUARY 2013.  $18.  Violence: PG; Language: G (1 swear); Mature Content: G.  

In her latest attempt to escape Vaughn’s clutches, Rhine takes Cecily, Linden and Bowen to Reed – Vaughn’s estranged brother.  While they find a few moments of peace, Rhine hears word of her brother – and it is not good.  If she doesn’t find him and let him know that she is alive, he may be driven to further destruction.  But Vaughn will do whatever he has to keep Rhine under his thumb.  Vaughn is desperate to find a cure and he will use anyone in anyway to complete it. And he is sure that Rhine and Rowan are the key.  

While I was happy to read a ending to Rhine’s story, I wasn’t satisfied for how it all hangs together.  If I point out the logic problems, I will give away plot points, unfortunately.  And the end is so abrupt I just can’t fathom it.  I know that kids who have read the other two will want to read this one – I just wish it were as awesome as number 1.  Don’t buy too many copies.  

MS, HS – OPTIONAL.  Cindy, Library Teacher

Who Lives Here? and What Happens Next? - ADVISABLE

Davies, Nicola Who Lives Here? And What Happens Next? Illustrated by Marc Boutavant.  Candlewick, 2012.  $10.  FLIP FLAP BOOK. Fun, vivid illustrations compliment an engaging series of books that could easily be used in the classroom for a lesson on prediction (What Happens Next?) or as reinforcement for a lesson on animals and habitats (Who Lives Here?).  Or sit at home and play with your child, too.  Pre-K, EL (K-3) – ADVISABLE.  Cindy, Library Teacher

Wish You Were Eyre by Heather Frederick - ESSENTIAL

Frederick, Heather Vogel Wish You Were Eyre, 442 p. Simon and Schuster, 2012.  $16.  

When the mayor of Concord is caught in a scandal, not only does Megan’s mom decide to run for mayor, but her family takes in a stranded exchange student, Gigi, who seems to want to take away Megan’s beloved grandmother and possibly Emma’s boyfriend Stewart.  All of the girls have important happenings this year – and things to learn about themselves, their boys, their families.  

Fans will enjoy this bittersweet ending to their beloved series.  I know that I will miss the Mother –Daughter Book Club.  I can only hope that maybe Frederick will miss them too and maybe sneak out another volume in a few years.  

MS – ESSENTIAL.  Cindy, Library Teacher

Oliver by Brigitta Sif - OPTIONAL

Sif, Brigitta Oliver.  Candlewick, 2012.  $17.  PICTURE BOOK.  

Oliver is more than happy to entertain himself with his puppets and books and his imagination.  But every once in a while, Oliver realizes that he needs a real playmate.  A lucky bounce of Oliver’s lonely tennis ball leads him to a likely new friend.  Sif’s illustrations have just the right touch of whimsy for this engaging little book.  I would love to see more of her illustrations and imagination.  

Pre-K, EL (K-3) – OPTIONAL.  Cindy, Library Teacher

The Essence by Kimberly Derting - ADVISABLE

Derting, Kimberly The Essence (Pledge #2), $17.  Simon and Schuster, JANUARY 2013. 

Content: G.  

Charlaina, Charlie, has taken the throne of Ludania, but no one around her knows that she carries a heavy burden.  The ancient, evil queen has managed to insert her memories and her will into Charlie – and sometimes Charlie can barely maintain control.  Some of the former nobles resent the removal of the language barriers and want to take down the new queen.  When Charlie is invited to a meeting of Queens, she realizes that someone close to her is a traitor – and only Queen Sabara, the voice within her, may be able to help her survive.  

I could have never predicted the direction Derting has taken this story.  Emotionally, I didn’t connect with the outside action as much as I did the first, but I did enjoy the interplay between Charlie and Sabara.  I am hoping that the next volume is a satisfying combination of the two parts.  

MS, HS - ADVISABLE.  Cindy, Library Teacher

Hubble Bubble Granny Trouble by Tracey Corderoy

Corderoy, Tracey Hubble Bubble Granny Trouble, illustrated by Joe Berger.  Nosy Crow (Candlewick), 2012.  $15.  PICTURE BOOK.  

A little girl is embarrassed by her very different Granny, with her gloppy soups, her pointy hats, and her flying car.  But when her granny lets the little girl make her over, the girl realizes, that maybe Granny really is something special.  

This is a cute Halloween themed book, for girly girls, with nostalgic illustrations that will appeal to parents, also.  But the theme of appreciating someone for who they are is much stronger than any holiday connection.  

EL (K-3) – OPTIONAL.  Cindy, Library Teacher