Books and Literature for Teens

The Academie by Susanne Dunlap

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 16:00:00 +0000

|Genre: Historical fiction, 1800s, Napoleonic War, romance|

|Other Books: The Musician's Daughter, Anastasia's Secret, and In the Shadow of the Lamp by Susanne Dunlap; Dancing Through Fire by Kathryn Lasky|
|Overall Rating: 5/5|

Eliza Monroe-daughter of the future president of the United States-is devastated when her mother decides to send her to boarding school outside of Paris. But the young American teen is quickly reconciled to the idea when-ooh, la-la!-she discovers who her fellow pupils will be: Hortense de Beauharnais, daughter of Josephine Bonaparte; and Caroline Bonaparte, youngest sister of the famous French general. It doesn't take long for Eliza to figure out that the two French girls are mortal enemies-and that she's about to get caught in the middle of their schemes.
Loosely drawn from history, Eliza Monroe's imagined coming of age provides a scintillating glimpse into the lives, loves, and hopes of three young during one of the most volatile periods in French history.

Yet another tale of daring adventure, love, and history is spun by Dunlap, the author of The Musician's Daughter and In the Shadow of the Lamp. Set in the backdrop of a glamourous but uneasy time in French history, our four heroines will–all in a few short months–endure great adventure, scandal, danger, and love. Only some will survive.
A fan of Dunlap's since her first novel for young adults, The Academie is of course, no surprise, a favorite. Taking once again a unique, but exciting bit a of history and combining it with historically correct characters, you get a lovely fictionalized retelling. Sharing the spotlight with not one, not two, but three young girls' perspectives was a genius way of summing up a complicated, and sometimes two-faced story. Despite it skipping sometimes between two very different events, the book is very unified. Dunlap has pulled off the threesome nicely. The Academie seemed to be a smoother read as well. In some of her other novels, specific plot climaxes were at times far between but with this one, everything flowed into one big finale!
I would have never thought to have included an American character among the daughters of the elite Frenchmen. Although taking place before the Monroes were White House material, James Monroe (more commonly known as just "President Monroe") was an important figure-head in both the American and French Revolutions.
Of the two French girls–Hortense was my favorite. She is the quiet thinker of the foursome, she is also the most hesitant. Though wise beyond her years, Hortense must make a risky choice. One that may require her to make a terrible sacrifice. On the other hand, Madeline is the wild card. She pops up now and then but readers will not know how to place her until the final card is played. Love will spare no one! Dunlap will leave readers vying destiny of each girl with every twist and turn.

Overall, The Academie is Dunlap's best yet. There is a nice selection to chose from on Napoleonic literature but Dunlap's will be a favorite. Highly recommend to faithful fans, historical fiction lovers, and anyone else who may be intrigued. Ages 13+

Content Awareness
Some violence and some mild sexual references/sensuality. (PG)

Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

|Other Books: Catching Park by Miranda Kenneally (Oct. 2012), Stupid Fast by Geoff Herbach
|Overall Rating: 4/5|

What girl doesn't want to be surrounded by gorgeous jocks day in and day out? Jordan Woods isn't just surrounded by hot guys, though-she leads them as the captain and quarterback of her high school football team. They all see her as one of the guys, and that's just fine. As long as she gets her athletic scholarship to a powerhouse university. But now there's a new guy in town who threatens her starting position... suddenly she's hoping he'll see her as more than just a teammate.

A female quarterback? Get out.
Although it may not be realistic, Jordan's status of as quarterback for her high school football team sure makes for an interesting premises for a story...and a adrenaline rush of a love triangle. I don't like football let alone will you find me reading novels about the sport. Surprisingly, after a few pages into the book, I could barely tare myself away from the story. I really enjoyed Jordan's character. Jordan sees football as something more than just a sport, or a way into college. Football is Jordan's way of proving herself...especially to her hard-sell professional football player dad. Talk about a hard thing to live up to.
Getting to know not only Jordan's personal dilemmas but the "behind the scenes" of the entire team as well made the book all the more interesting. You have your star players of course, who are closest to Jordan. They protect her, carry out her plays, and of course never leave her out of a party. Alas, though these are still guys we're talking about. Even worse...jocks. Whether Kenneally had first-hand experience on either being on or observing a football team, all those stereotypes are right on the dot. Girls, hook-ups, partying, and just being egoistic. There is a lot of crude humor and sexual remarks throughout the book. Although mostly coming from the guys, Jordan is a natural "tom-boy" and is not shy about calling shots. It's what makes her character daring and fits her into quarterback material. Despite them all being gruff and fairly egoistic, Jordan and the team care for each other quite a bit. Each player has a special relationship with Jordan which heightens the emotional tension and makes the story all the more captivating.

Being the all-star member of the high school isn't always easy. For one, Jordan is NOT a guy. Jordan hangs-out, puts up with, and relies on her team so much that Jordan has little time left for any other feelings. When a new player (and quarterback) threatens to take her title, instead of showing him who's boss (or sicking the guys on him), Jordan falls in love. Fast paced and full of daring moves, Catching Jordan surprised me with each play of the game and the final score.
Be on the lookout for Kenneally's next sport-oriented book! Recommend to ages 14+

Content Awareness:

(14+) Sensuality, sexual references, crude humor and language. Main character participates in [moderate] sexual activity.

Giveaway: What You Wish For

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Sat, 12 May 2012 12:30:00 +0000

What You Wish For is a lovely collection of short stories, poems, and a graphic story by acclaimed authors like Francisco X. Stork, Cornelia Funke, Meg Cabot, and John Green. Each story deals with wishes–for love, family, safety, and friendship.
There were several stories I greatly enjoyed. One was called "The Great Wall" in which the protagonist falls in love with a Asian boy from the Chinese restaurant. The pair of friends go through great lengths to find out more about the boy and his family.
John Green's piece was also a nice story of love: a sad, but heartwarming tale of a boy who–despite much criticism–believe that the money he is sending overseas is helping an Indian girl.
I liked also the two stories near the end of book about family: "Rules for Wishing" by Francisco Stork that takes place in a orphanage/foster home and the graphic story by Nate Powell.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Please note that this copy of What You Wish For is a ARC (Advance Reader's Copy).

Honey, Baby, Sweetheart by Deb Caletti

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Fri, 11 May 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Edition: Softcover, 308Publisher: Simon Pulse|Release Date: 2004|Genre: Contemporary fiction, love, family, friendship|
|Overall Rating: 5/5|
|More Books by Author: The Secret Life of Prince Charming, Wild Roses, The Queen of Everything, The Nature of Jade, Stay, The Six Rules of Maybe, The Fortune's of Indigo Sky, & The Story of Us (2012)

It is summer in the Northwest town of Nine Mile Falls, and sixteen-year-old Ruby McQueen, ordinarily dubbed The Quiet Girl, finds herself hanging out with gorgeous, rich, thrill-seeking Travis Becker. But Ruby is in over her head, and finds she is risking more and more when she's with him.
In an effort to keep Ruby occupied, Ruby's mother Ann drags Ruby to the weekly book club she runs. When it is discovered that one of the group''s own members is the subject of the tragic love story they are reading, Ann and Ruby spearhead a reunion between the long-ago lovers. But for Ruby, this mission turns out to be much more than just a road trip...

Once again Caletti has created a vividly adventurous (and humorous) home-spun coming of age story. My first Caletti novel was The Secret Life of Prince Charming and oh the characters! It's the same with Honey, Baby, Sweetheart. The characters are jewels...and the story is so familiar yet so enjoyable.
Ruby McQueen doesn't hang out with boys. She's a good girl, has one girlfriend, a love-sick insecure librarian mother, a little brother, and a chewing machine of a dog. Typical family, typical girl falls for the bad boy next door. Or is it?
I love how Caletti takes a stereotype plot like this and whips it around into a heartwarming story about something completely different–something that makes you sad when the last page turns. Ruby was naturally a keep-to-yourself type. When she suddenly catches the eye of the motorcyle-ridin' bad boy, Travis, Ruby unleashes her alter-ego that has been hiding inside her. Suddenly things starts turning upside-down. Does Ruby really like Travis or does she just like the thrill of the wind rushing against her skin as they zoom down the highway. When Ruby and her family become invovled in a complicated mission to help Lillian, an elderly woman and fellow book-club member, unite with her true love, Ruby gets a lesson in more than just love. Sometimes, adventure is way more exciting.

I love the characters–Miz June, Ann Bee, Harold (he's a hoot), Peach, Lillian, Chip Jr., Ruby, Ann, and even the guy in the whale van. They're so normal, they're people you know...but yet throw them together and you get an unforgettable journey of strength, love, friendship, and breaking away. The humorous yet serious advice the seniors give Ruby is uplifting and inspiring. Highly, highly recommend. If you're a Deb Caletti fan already–what are you waiting for!? Ages 13+

Read More Great Books Like This:
Ten Miles Past Normal by Francis O'Roark Dowell, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie, Faithful by Janet Fox, After the Kiss by Terra Elan McVoy, The Ruby Notebook by Laura Resau, A Little Friendly Advice by Siobhan Vivian, Girlfriend Material by Melissa Kantor

Unclaimed Heart by Kim Wilkins

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Edition: Paperback, 320 pages

Publisher: Razorbill

Release Date: July 2009

Genre: Historical fiction, 1700s, adventure, romance

Similar Books: Pirates! by Celia Rees, Sovay by Celia Rees

Overall Rating: 4/5

The rules for a young English woman in 1799 are simple: Do what you're told; stay out of the way; and don't, under any circumstances, ask questions.

But Constance Blackchurch is insatiable, headstrong, and complex; and the quest to find her missing mother is too much to resist...

as is Alexandre Sans-Nom, the pearl diver who steals her heart, uproots all of her social expectations, and can either ruin or save the family she loves.

The story was intriguing...a missing mother. A brooding, and distant father. A secret, and of course, a forbidden romance. The story is a bit dry at first but once Constance begins finding out information about her mother's whereabouts, it picks up quite a bit. My only issue with making Unclaimed Heart a favorite was that I felt it was written in sort-of juvenile way. It's not a middle grade novel–at least not by my knowledge–and Wilkins has written other historical romances for adults so I was sort of surprised it would get this feeling. I liked the characters, particularly the french sailor-boy (but of course!) and the setting/period but the main character, Constance, again felt in some way a bit too distant. Some of the predicaments Constance finds herself in is not very realistic, almost silly, and at times a bit rushed which can take the shine off the adventure.

Perhaps the toned-down atmosphere will keep it from being an extremely enticing novel, but it was a nice, quick read nonetheless. Younger readers will probably enjoy this novel much more; in fact, I would definitely have read and loved this book several years ago. Still, I hardly ever regret reading a book set on the high seas! Recommended for ages 12+.

Feature & Follow: Football and Morticians

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:45:00 +0000

"What is the best book you've read in the last month? What's the worst?

Even after such a long absence of reviewing lately, I actually have been reading. In fact I have (5) books that need to be reviewed. In the last month I read my favorite books have been more along the lines of design and typography related stuff, but I'll include a fiction book too. I started reading Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally...and I actually like it! Remember D.J. Diary Queen being the only girl on the football team? Well Jordan is the school's quarterback and "one of the guys". When another quarterback from Texas tries out for the team AND a potential boyfriend material, Jordan starts feeling pulled all different ways. I totally thought I'd disliked this book but I don't! Yeah sure being around football players will make you just as loud-mouthed and crude as a guy but I really dig Jordan's personality. Also, having some sort of "insight" on what goes on in a football team can be a big draw as well. Never realized how bad football players fall for the cheerleaders...its definitely one stereotype that cannot be challenged.

Graphic: Inside the Sketchbooks of the World's Greatest Graphic Designers by Steven Heller is a great look-book for those interested in design and illustration. I borrowed it via IIL at my university library!

A book I didn't like...hmmm. Probably Putting Makeup on Dead People by Jen Violi. It started out as a nice story. Liked the writing style, it was very thoughtful. Then it turned weird. There were waaay too many types of religions going on to make any connect with dying really. I wish it just focused on the character wanting to be a mortician. Hardly any research on what is actually the duty of a mortician was outputted in the book (besides the obvious "putting makeup on dead people"). Want to really know what goes on while dealing with death? Read Alane Furgson's forensic mysteries! Way better.

The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Edition: Hardcover, 304 pages
Publisher: Penguin, Putnam Juvenile
Release Date: January 2012
Genre: Contemporary fiction, historical fiction, 1950s, Civil Rights Era, Friendship
Other Books By Author: Best Bad I Luck I Ever Had
Overall Rating: 4/5

Two girls separated by race form an unbreakable bond during the tumultuous integration of Little Rock schools in 1958.
Twelve-year-old Marlee doesn't have many friends until she meets Liz, the new girl at school. Liz is bold and brave, and always knows the right thing to say, especially to Sally, the resident mean girl. Liz even helps Marlee overcome her greatest fear - speaking, which Marlee never does outside her family.
But then Liz is gone, replaced by the rumor that she was a Negro girl passing as white. But Marlee decides that doesn't matter. Liz is her best friend. And to stay friends, Marlee and Liz are willing to take on integration and the dangers their friendship could bring to both their families.

There are quite a few books now about the civil rights movement or integration in the 1950s/60s. After awhile I kind of felt like that once I read a few books with this topic, I read them all. With The Lions of Little Rock, it was not just another integration story...it was way more. Although it followed the classic white girl meets black girl scenario, it had a unique twist and a lot of history.
The main character in The Lions of Little Rock is twelve year-old Marlee who struggles with shyness and speaking for herself. When she meets the new girl in school, Marlee becomes fascinated with her. Liz is everything Marlee wishes she could be...and soon they become inseparable friends. After a troubling discovery one morning at school, Marlee realizes that although Liz wasn't what she seemed, their friendship and Liz's lesson about being courageous is more important. Even though being friends with Liz is fast becoming dangerous as the racial tensions between whites and blacks rise, Marlee learns to find her voice.

Combining a heartfelt come-of-age story in the backdrop of a turbulent time in American history, Levine shows us that friendship and making a stand are sometimes the most important lessons learned in life.
The Lions of Little Rock was nice, different look on the segregation wars. Taking place a year after the "Little Rock 9", Levine incorporates alot of history–sometimes little known–into a wonderful story of a very shy girl on the brink of change. Levine's writing was very lyrical and I'm glad the the events that were going on didn't take over the entire story of Marlee. I liked how everything was presented much better than any other novel I've read about this topic in history. Great book for middle graders and teens. (Ages 11+)

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noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:41:00 +0000

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BLT's Best of 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Goodbye 2011, hello there 2012! This means BLT will be celebrating its 3rd year anniversary in February :D I'm so excited...I can't believe three years have gone by so fast. 2011 was a busy year for me. Last semester of high school (yippy!) and a sort-of-kind-of first taste of college. I daresay I've been extremely busy this past fall and I apologize for no updates or reviews for a good couple of months. Alas, this spring will probably be just as busy but I still read a bit in my spare time. *Will try hard for blogging*

Because 2011 was quite a whirl-wind, I didn't read nearly as many books as I did in 2010. However, I do have some awesome favorites that YOU need to read this new year! Enjoy:

The Water Seeker by Kimberly Willis Holt

Following the life of the son of a fur-trapper, Amos knows he has his father's gift at an early age. Determined to make of the best of his abilities, young Amos sets of into the wild American West, touching the lives he in comes in counter with. Every Holt novel I read, I love and this book is no exception. Amos's story is a wonderful look not only in a historical perspective, but a lovely example of family, love, and survival on the Oregon Trail. Not to mention the art of...dowsing?! Highly recommend if you are a Kimberly Willis Holt fan!

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

A mysterious death. Strange photos. A peculiar quest to find the answer. Setting it apart from any other paranormal/fantasy novel, Miss Peregrine's is filled with authentic vintage photographs that tie into the story–and that of course is the reason why you should read it! A eerily fantastic novel for teens or adults. Stay tuned for the sequel in 2012!

Jane by April Linder
A brooding, modern-day twist on the classic story of Jane Erye, Jane finds herself in dire need of a job. Utterly alone and with no money for college tuition, Jane applies for a nanny position; and by chance is hired look after the young daughter of a famous rock-star. Not knowing what to expect Jane, is determined to make the best of her situation...despite Nico Rathburn not being the type of celebrity Jane assumed he would be. True to the manner of the original story, Jane, is a great novel for fans of Bronte and contemporary romance.

Forgiven (Faithful #2) by Janet Fox
A little romance, a little turn-of-the century San Francisco, and a whole lot of danger. A stunning sequel to Faithful, this time it is Kula's turn in the spotlight. The daring daughter of an outlaw, Kula knows how to handle herself...but is she prepared for the dark secrets that lurk in Chinatown's streets? Haven't read Faithful yet? Not worries, you can still pickup Forgiven!

Across the Universe (Bk. 1) by Beth Revis
Locked in a bed of ice that will not be unfrozen until nearly 200 years have passed, Amy is suddenly awakened...only to find it is too early. Faced with an almost alien way of life aboard the spaceship, Amy meets Elder, the soon-to-be ruler of Godspeed who has become wary of his teacher's dictatorship. Together they must unlock the secrets and deceit that have taken over while Amy was sleeping. The clock is ticking...
(Book #2 is out this month!)

Bitter Melon by Cara Chow
An unforgettable story about one girl's quest to defy perfection, resist bitterness, and follow her heart. Chow's raw emotional tale will be an inspiration to teens everywhere. This was one of the first "best books" I read in 2011. Highly recommend!

The Queen's Daughter by Susan Coventry
Although probably more of a personal fav, this historical fiction is brimming with royal life in the 16th century. History buffs will be lured into Conventry's fictional account of the daughter of the infamous Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II.

The Accidental Genius of Weasel High by Rick Detorie
In this hilarious take on 9th grade, Larkin is the ultimate "wimpy teen" and he's got points to prove it. Told in text and illustrations, any high schooler will fall head over heels for Larkin's comical take on high school, friends, and first love.

--> Runner's Ups, Read These Too!

The Water Wars by Cameron Stracher
Girlfriend Material by Melissa Kantor
In The Shadow of the Lamp by Susan Dunlap
On the Volcano by James Nolan
After the Kiss by Terra Lynn McVoy
Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohen & David Levithan
Ten Miles Past Normal by Frances O'Roark Dowell
Blood Wounds by Susan Beth Pfeffer

Awesome Middle Grade Fiction
Sparrow Road by Sheila O'Connor
Stones for my Father by Trilby Kent
The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

Wrapping Up 2011 Read-A-Thon Final Update

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Remarkable Read's Wrapping Up 2011 Read-A-Thon as come to a close, just as the year has too! I read all the books I planned to read except one (which I replaced with another). Overall I wrapped up:

Unclaimed Heart - Kim Wilkins
The Lions of Little Rock - Kristin Levine
Wither (The Chemical Gardens Tril) - Lauren DeStefano
Ten Miles Past Normal - Frances O'Roark Dowell

That's a total of about 1,169 pages!! I kind of slowed down a bit after Christmas but I was still pleased with my progress. Did you participate in the read-a-thon too? Stay tuned for a special turn-of-the-year giveaway celebrating the end of this read-a-thon and the beginning of 2012:) Have a happy new year!

Waiting on Wednesday: Irises

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 17:35:00 +0000

TWO SISTERS: Kate is bound for Stanford and an M.D. -- if her family will let her go. Mary wants only to stay home and paint. When their loving but repressive father dies, they must figure out how to support themselves and their mother, who is in a permanent vegetative state, and how to get along in all their uneasy sisterhood.

THREE YOUNG MEN: Then three men sway their lives: Kate's boyfriend Simon offers to marry her, providing much-needed stability. Mary is drawn to Marcos, though she fears his violent past. And Andy tempts Kate with more than romance, recognizing her ambition because it matches his own.

ONE AGONIZING CHOICE: Kate and Mary each find new possibilities and darknesses in their sudden freedom. But it's Mama's life that might divide them for good -- the question of *if* she lives, and what's worth living for.

Irises by Francisco X. Stork will be released in January 2012.

Wrapping Up 2011 Read-A-Thon Update #1

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Books Read So Far: (2) books, over 600 pages in two days!

Perhaps my reluctance to enter any read-a-thon before this was because the most pages I can read at one time is 100 pages in an hour...if I can stay intrigued with the same book for that long. Some people must have these remarkable eyes that last for hours reading small printing fonts. I wanted those for Christmas please.

Anyway, only two more books left on my official challenge:

Unclaimed Heart - Kim Wilkins (4/5)

The Lions of Little Rock - Kristin Levine (4/5)

Ten Miles From Normal - Frances O'Roark Dowell

Putting Makeup on Dead People

I will probably be adding more books after I finished Ten Miles. I'm going to this awesome indi book store (the biggest in the Southwest!!!) and I plan to swap some old reads for some new ones :D Now it really will be Christmas.

Wrapping Up 2011 Read-A-Thon: What I Will Be Reading

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 13:30:00 +0000

I never have participated in a Read-a-Thon before...mostly because I would never have time to read so many books in the set time period. With the holidays however, sometimes there's not a lot of other stuff to do. Why not read!?!

This read-a-thon is hosted by Remarkable Reads–want to participate? Please visit her blog!

During this read-a-thon I will be hosting a giveaway
I will be reading the following books:

Unclaimed Heart - Kim Wilkins

.:Currently reading-probably finish by today:.

The rules for a young English woman in 1799 are simple: Do what you-re told; stay out of the way; and don-t, under any circumstances, ask questions.

-as is Alexandre Sans-Nom, the pearl diver who steals her heart, uproots all of her social expectations, and can either ruin or save the family she loves.

But Constance Blackchurch is insatiable, headstrong, and complex; and the quest to find her missing mother is too much to resist-

The Lions of Little Rock - Kristine Levine

Two girls separated by race form an unbreakable bond during the tumultuous integration of Little Rock schools in 1958

Twelve-year-old Marlee doesn't have many friends until she meets Liz, the new girl at school. Liz is bold and brave, and always knows the right thing to say, especially to Sally, the resident mean girl. Liz even helps Marlee overcome her greatest fear - speaking, which Marlee never does outside her family.

But then Liz is gone, replaced by the rumor that she was a Negro girl passing as white. But Marlee decides that doesn't matter. Liz is her best friend. And to stay friends, Marlee and Liz are willing to take on integration and the dangers their friendship could bring to both their families.

Putting Makeup on Dead People - Jen Violi

In the spring of her senior year, Donna Parisi finds new life in an unexpected place: a coffin.

Since her father’s death four years ago, Donna has gone through the motions of living: her friendships are empty, she’s clueless about what to do after high school graduation, and her grief keeps her isolated, cut off even from the one parent she has left. That is until she’s standing in front of the dead body of a classmate at Brighton Brothers’ Funeral Home. At that moment, Donna realizes what might just give her life purpose is comforting others in death. That maybe who she really wants to be is a mortician.This discovery sets in motion a life Donna never imagined was possible. She befriends a charismatic new student, Liz, notices a boy, Charlie, and realizes that maybe he's been noticing her, too, and finds herself trying things she hadn’t dreamed of trying before. By taking risks, Donna comes into her own, diving into her mortuary studies with a passion and skill she didn’t know she had in her. And she finally understands that moving forward doesn’t mean forgetting someone you love.

Ten Miles Past Normal - Frances O'Roark DowellIt would be nice to go back to that old suburban life…or some grown up, high school version of it, complete with nice, normal boyfriends who wear crew neck sweaters and like social studies. So, what’s wrong with normal? Well, kind of everything. She knows that, of course, why else would she learn bass and join Jam Band, how else would she know to idolize infamous wild-child and high school senior Emma (her best friend Sarah’s older sister), why else would she get arrested while doing a school project on a local freedom school (jail was not part of the assignment). And, why else would she kind of be falling in "like" with a boy named Monster—yes, that is his real name. Janie was going for normal, but she missed her mark by about ten miles…and we mean that as a compliment.

Janie Gorman wants to be normal. The problem with that: she’s not. She’s smart and creative and a little bit funky. She’s also an unwilling player in her parents’ modern-hippy, let’s-live-on-a-goat-farm experiment (regretfully, instigated by a younger, much more enthusiastic Janie). This, to put it simply, is not helping Janie reach that “normal target.” She has to milk goats every day…and endure her mother’s pseudo celebrity in the homemade-life, crunchy mom blogosphere. Goodbye the days of frozen lasagna and suburban living, hello crazy long bus ride to high school and total isolation—and hovering embarrassments of all kinds. The fresh baked bread is good…the threat of homemade jeans, not so much.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Blood Wounds by Susan Beth Pfeffer

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 15:50:00 +0000

Edition: Hardcover, 248 pages

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin, Harcourt

Release Date: September 2011

Genre: Contemporary fiction, thriller, family drama

Other Books By Author: Life as We Knew It, The Dead And Gone, This World We Live In
Overall Rating: 3/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

Willa is lucky: She has a loving blended family that gets along. Not all families are so fortunate. But when a bloody crime takes place hundreds of miles away, it has an explosive effect on Willa’s peaceful life. The estranged father she hardly remembers has murdered his new wife and children, and is headed east toward Willa and her mother.

Under police protection, Willa discovers that her mother has harbored secrets that are threatening to boil over. Has everything Willa believed about herself been a lie? As Willa sets out to untangle the mysteries of her past, she keeps her own secret—one that has the potential to tear her family apart.

Review
After having read Pfeffer's The Last Survivors series (i.e. Life as We Knew It), I was looking forward to her new book. Blood Wounds sounds like a contemporary story of a dysfunctional family but it's much more of a almost sinister thriller. Having gruesomely murdered his young family, Willa's father threatens not only Willa and her mother's safety but the pasted-together lives of Willa's stepfamily. Expected to push the terrible event and move on, Willa is unable to without first knowing what her mother fled from all those years ago. Battling torment herself, Willa's trip back to her roots allows Willa to see her life and family in a new perspective.
I didn't expect this book to be so much of a edgy thriller...and a murder like that? Gory. At first I didn't think I'd like Blood Wounds and although it was not a light, "happy" story, in the end, it was a very emotional story of forgiveness and putting the wrongs to rights. Willa is, like I mentioned earlier, a tormented girl. She has grown up not knowing her father or that he was very psychologicaly unstable. Her mother tries to save Willa from the same fate by covering up the past and making sure Willa feels loved by her stepfamily. Things seem happy at Willa's house but as you read on, you come to realize things are never as they seem.

Pfeffer does an excellent job of bringing to light what it means to make amends with a truly dark circumstance. Because of the somewhat depressing plot, Blood Wounds is not for every reader. I can see readers being put-off by the lack of content or development of the characters or even the "dark" themes of the story. However, I believe the message, perhaps, was suppose to be much more powerful than the content. With this said, I would recommend to intrigued readers ages 14+.

Content Awareness

Ages 14 & up for references to a very gruesome murder. Willa goes over the pretty graphic details of what her father did and how each member was killed. Also, Willa cuts herself around the beginning of the book.

Insight by Diana Greenwood

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:24:00 +0000

Edition: Hardcover, 244 pages

Publisher: Zondervan

Release Date: April 2011

Genre: Historical fiction, 1930s, family drama

Overall Rating: 4/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

Some secrets won't let you go. Elvira Witsil lives about as far away from civilization as you can get, in a remote corner of Wisconsin where nothing much ever happens. In a house crowded with her mother, her cantankerous grandmother, and her little sister, Jessie, Elvira feels forgotten and alone.Their house also contains numerous secrets, and Elvira's family holds their secrets closely. Secrets about the father that Jessie never knew, and that Elvira can't forget. Secrets about that day five years ago. And the one secret that Elvira can't quite understand: that Jessie sees things no one else can see.These secrets will lead Elvira and her family on a journey far away from home—on a journey toward redemption and healing—if she can just bring herself to believe.

Review

I'll admit that Insight was a pretty odd story. I mean her sister knows when people are going to die. I was a bit worried it would turn into be some kind of "paranormal" thing but Elvira's sister's seeing abilities were treated as a gift.
I liked the atmosphere of the Great Depression. Of course there was nothing nice about a depression but it gave the characters personalities. Elvira's granny was moody because she was forced to "wear the pants" around the household at this hard time. Her daughter, Elvira's mother, was distant and rarely gives much thought how Elvira feels. Elvira is going through the transition between girl and woman, so it is a nice coming of age story as well.
When Elvira's mother sees a opportunity in Jessie's ability, the family goes a on a road trip that will change all their lives forever.

Although I can't say Insight was a complete favorite, I still thought it was a nice read. It was mostly the ending is what sold me. The book reminded me a lot of Kimberly Willis Holt's My Louisiana Sky–which is a favorite of mine. The spiritual message in Jessie's visions is what sets Insight apart from other books. The story is told from the unbeliever's view [Elvira], therefore it sets a unique perspective.
Insight will be a nice change of pace for readers. The background story was fairly well developed and even though I did become frustrated with how Elvira's mother was using Jessie's gift to her advantage, the ending made the entire story worth while. Good endings are hard to find these days. Ages 12+

Swap/Trade: Dreams of Significant Girls

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 16:30:00 +0000

Would anyone like to swap Dreams of Significant Girls by Cristina Garcia with me? If you're interested, send me an email, tweet, or even post a comment.

Forgiven by Janet Fox

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Edition: Paperback, 288 pages

Publisher: Speak

Release Date: June 2011

Genre: Historical fiction, 1900s, American West, romance, mystery

Other Books By Author: Faithful
Overall Rating: 5/5

Synopsis from Goodreads
Kula Baker never expected to find herself on the streets of San Francisco, alone but for a letter of introduction. Though she has come to the city to save her father from a cruel fate, Kula soon finds herself swept up in a world of art and elegance - a world she hardly dared dream of back in Montana, where she was no more than the daughter of an outlaw. And then there is the handsome David Wong, whose smiling eyes and soft-spoken manner have an uncanny way of breaking through Kula's carefully crafted reserve. Yet when disaster strikes and the wreckage threatens all she holds dear, Kula realizes that only by unlocking her heart can she begin to carve a new future for herself.

Review
After falling in love with Fox's first novel, Faithful, I anxiously awaited the sequel. Forgiven picks up the story with Kula Baker, the brooding and wild child from Faithful with whom Maggie becomes intertwined with. With Maggie's story finished, Kula steps into the spotlight as she races time, Chinatown, and a terrible fire to save her father. Fox's stories are in the style of a classic Western "romance" but with a YA twist. I really enjoyed how Fox showcased another well known place for a setting yet in a time period we don't know much about. Being headstrong and independent, Kula greets her adventure quite differently than Maggie. Instead of the romantic, wild wilderness of Yellowstone Park, Kula is thrown into a complicated plot of politics on the gruff streets of Chinatown. There, she discovers a stunning but dangerous secret about her family's past.

I loved the whole plot of Forgiven–it was full of surprises. It had romance, mystery, and an intense retelling of the San Francisco fire that destroyed most of the city. It also had quite a lot about Chinatown's dark history and how crooked businessmen controlled the town. I thought Faithful was very dramatic but Forgiven has a touch of tragedy. I loved the characters and how each one had a special purpose in the development of Kula's story. I simply cannot wait until Fox can give us another lovely adventure! Highly recommend. (Ages 12+)

Waiting On Wednesday: Perfect Escape

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Perfect Escape by Jennifer Brown,

author of The Hate List & Bitter Ends

Kendra has always felt overshadowed by her older brother, Grayson, whose OCD forces him to live a life of carefully coordinated routines. The only way Kendra can stand out next to Grayson is to be perfect, and she has perfection down to an art -- until a cheating scandal threatens her flawless reputation.

Behind the wheel of her car, with Grayson asleep beside her, Kendra decides to drive away from it all -- with enough distance, maybe she'll be able to figure everything out. But eventually, Kendra must stop running and come to terms with herself, her brother, and her past.

With undeniable grace and humor, acclaimed author Jennifer Brown explores OCD, the pressure for perfection, and the emotional highs and lows of a complex sibling relationship.

Title will be released: July 2012
Add to Goodreads with me :)

Dreams of Significant Girls by Cristina Garcia

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Edition: 1st, Hardcover, 238
Publisher: Simon & Schuster BFYR

Release Date: September 2011

Genre: Contemporary fiction, friendship, 1970s, social/teen issues

Overall Rating: 2/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

Brought together each summer at a boarding school in Switzerland, three girls learn a lot more than just French and European culture. Shirin, an Iranian princess; Ingrid, a German-Canadian eccentric; and Vivien, a Cuban-Jewish New Yorker culinary phenom, are thrown into eachother's lives when they become roommates. This is a story of 3 paths slowly beginning to cross and merge as they spend the year apart, but the summers together. Through navigating the social-cultural shoals of the school, developing their adolescence, and learning the confusing and conflicting legacies of their families' past, Shirin, Ingrid, and Vivien form an unbreakable bond.

Review
Advertised as being similar to Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Dreams of Significant Girls was not at all what I expected it to be. First of all it takes places in the 1970s at a boarding school for wealthy girls. Not only do these girls attend the summer camp to get away from their parents, but to mingle with boys, take drugs, and drink. Perhaps not all of the three girls had these intentions but one girl in particular–Ingrid–was up to no good throughout most of the book. I dislike the atmosphere of the setting so much, after reading a 100 pages, I had to quit.
The issues and events that came up in the story were not the only thing that bothered me. The plot itself was chaotic and jumped around from past to present, from girl to girl; I felt detached from them. Each character's voice was unique and different–I would have to say that was one of the few "good" things about this book. I did read the ending of Significant Girls and the story seemed to wrap up pretty well.

Overall, I just wasn't pleased with the whole subject of the story: puberty. Honestly it sadden me because I was excited to read Significant Girls. There are too many stories that deal with nothing but this, first hooking ups, etc. Perhaps there is more to the story but in those first 100 pages it seemed like the focal point of the girl's journey.
Also, I must add that the girls on the cover do NOT in anyway resemble girls from the 70s...I mean where the heck are the bell bottom jeans? The fringe? The babydoll tops? I don't think this was a smart choice for cover art.
So yes this was not the book for me but when choosing to read this book (or not!) my main point is that it was just too much like other books I've read–making it, shall we say, a not-so significant story. (Ages 16+)

Content Awareness
Please be aware that this book contains mature elements such as sexual references/situations, language, drinking, and references to drugs. If you were to "watch" this book as a movie, I would definitely rate it PG-13.

On the Volcano: Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 21:00:00 +0000

On the Volcano by James Nelson

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:20:00 +0000

Set in the rural and dangerous land of "New Pacifica", a young heroine longs to explore the world below the volcano she's always known. When Katie gets her chance at seeing other people, she is both surprised and disappointed about life outside her protected homestead. Danger and love follow Katie back and the events that follow will change her world forever...for the worst and the best.

At first I didn't think On the Volcano would hold my interest. The first couple chapters weren't that exciting and the writing style was just a bit too "juvenile" for someone my age. I decided to stick it out and by the middle of the book, Nelson had me. Katie's trip to town turned into a year long "nightmare" of how cruel people can be. Yet, at the same time, Katie discovers love.

On the Volcano did have some issues with how it was written and the basis of the plot. At times it was rather dull and the story spans over a year, sometimes nothing would happen. Although the setting was exciting enough–a volanco!–the descriptions of the landscape was blah when it could have been exciting. It gave you a very isolated feeling, which of course may serve as good feeling to bring up when reading a story about a isolated girl. I also felt that how the characters continued to lie to the Sheriff about what was really going on atop the volcano. After awhile it became in a sense, kind of silly.

However, it was still a nice story. The last half of the book was probably the best part of it. The message of life vs. death was very prominent by the final page. The actual place in which On the Volcano was actually set is a mystery to me. Part of me wants to say it took place in the mid–1800s when the American West was opening up; another part of me thinks it was a sort of dystopian setting. Either way it doesn't play a big part of the storyline...still makes you curious though.

Overall, On the Volcano turned into be a touching story of how love and family can go against hardships and the cruelty of the world.

Recommendation: Not quite a middle grade book and–because of the writing style–not quite a YA novel either On the Volcano is just...there. I can't really recommend to young readers mostly because 1) it probably wouldn't hold 10-12 yr. old's attention 2) by the final couple chapters there are much more "mature" themes introduced that didn't feel as if it was meant for kids. Katie's character is very innocent and childlike for her age, so YA readers wouldn't necessarily go for this either. YET, at the same time, like a mentioned earlier, not everything is "juvenile": murder, death, and sensuality. If I were a librarian I'd be officially confused as to what section to categorize it. However, if I had to choose between Children's/Middle Fiction and Young Adult I'd have to place it with the teen novels. I recommend On the Volcano to the general public...if it sounds like it'll interest you, go for it.

Content: Descriptions of murder, death, and near-rape. Some sensuality

<SPOILER ALERT> and a brief wedding night scene.</SPOILER ALERT>

|Pages: 272|Release Date: August 2011|Publisher: Putnam Son's|

|Genre: Coming of Age, Family, Romance, Dystopian(?), Historical Fiction (?)|

|Cover: 5/5|Content Rating: 4/5|Overal Rating: 4/5|

Cleaning Out the Shelves: Swapping, Selling, Donating

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 14:16:00 +0000

As my the time for me to move into my apartment for school fast approaches I find myself with a box of books that I don't need collecting dust on my lovely bookshelf while I'm gone. I'm giving you a chance to trade/swap and buy the these books from me before I donate them to the library.

Buying info: I will accept money orders or gift cards only (I would say cash but not sure if anyone feels its safe enough to send money through the mail)–no checks or PayPal. You must pay for shipping–highly suggest tracking number for media mail. *ARCs not for sale*

Swapping/Trading Info: A book for a book; please share a link to your wishlist. Tracking number for your package is on the house :)

Library/Teen Donations: If you are a library or a teen organization in dire need of YA books please contact me.

See Spreadsheet of Books

Order/Trade Form

If there are any problems with the forms please contact me at thefirstlibrarian@yahoo.com

Winner of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 20:33:00 +0000

The winner of a lovely copy of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children and a matching poster book is...

Zoe B.

Thanks for entering and happy reading!

Giveaway policy: If winner does not respond to email within 1 week, a new one will be chosen.

Perfectly Invisible by Kristin Billerbeck Blog Tour

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 15:00:00 +0000

It's Daisy Crispin's final semester of high school, and she plans to make it count. Her long-awaited freedom is mere months away, and her big plans for college loom in the future. Everything is under control.

Or is it?

Her boyfriend is treating her like she's invisible, and her best friend is making her sell bad costume jewelry in the school quad—and hanging out with her boyfriend. To top it off, Daisy's major humiliation of the year will be remembered in the yearbook for all eternity. It's enough to make her wonder if maybe being invisible isn't so bad after all.

Can Daisy get her life back on track? Or is she stuck in this town forever?

......................

Dripping with humor, drama, and the ups and downs that follow the last couple months of high school, Perfectly Invisible had all the makings of a really great story but alas the plot was...no where to be seen? Daisy's glum outlook on her social life and high school goes from bad to worse when her would-be "boyfriend"and prom date suddenly shys away from her. To top things off things are starting to heat up with her long-time crush Chase, but is he who he appears to be? And what about the constant bullying and attention Daisy has been getting from Amber and her gang? Not to mention her parents over-anxious attitude toward her college plans.

I guess the #1 problem that I had with Perfectly Invisible was that when things started getting really good and interesting...the chapter would end and sometimes it would skip several days into the future without so much as a brief note to wrap-up what important climax had occurred in the chapter before it. It was a bit frustrating. The second thing I disliked was that the story was everywhere: Daisy's high school, Daisy's friend's family dilemma, Daisy's college and job woes, and then of course her continuous–and slightly annoying–struggle between Chase and Max. Also, Daisy's parents were just outrageous at times.
Perhaps the thing that stands out the most is that even though it fits into the category of a Christian fiction book, I felt that the religious views pushed the characters in certain ways–almost robotically–rather than help them or the story along. Daisy takes her Christianity seriously but at the same time it seemed like she used it as a crutch to get her out of tight spots. Basically that is what the story is all about that the same time–Daisy learns to make her own choices based on her Christian outlook and not to get so wrapped-up in what other people may or may not be thinking.

Since Daisy comes from a pretty conservative Christian household readers who do not normally read religious fiction may very well be "shocked" so to speak by Daisy's dating rules. Not like any of it is at all unheard of of course, but I'm thinking that compared to main-stream "dating" it is different. Too different to be enjoyed is simply a matter of taste NOT a matter of religion. Even though Daisy goes to a Christian school it is no different than a public high school. Mean girls stalk the hallways, playboys play ball, and the geeks usually go unnoticed...but with Daisy, it's about to change.

Despite Perfectly Invisible having some plot issues, I think Daisy is humorously good example of a slightly geeky only-child finishing high school and trying to find where God is leading her in the world of adulthood. Daisy must prove everyone wrong–er right–and snag the boy and the college of her dreams.

Recommend? Yes, especially those h.s. seniors who are moving forward in both education and life. Interest would lean more to older teens. Ages 14+

Content: Mild sensuality/kissing. Reference to drugs. (PG)

Other Books By This Author| Perfectly Dateless (Universally Misunderstood 1), Split Ends, What A Girl Wants

|Pages: 266|Release Date: July 2011|Publisher: Revell|

|Genre: Christian fiction, contemporary fiction, chic-lit, relationships, school|Content Rating: 5/5|Cover: 4/5–faces! Not good|

|Overall Rating: 4/5|

This original review is copyrighted© by Books and Literature for Teens. Blog Tour possible by Revell/Baker House Publishing.

Giveaway: Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

noreply@blogger.com (Morgan @ BLT) — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children has recenlty been named a New York Times Best Seller! Why? Because it's an amazing book! Here's your chance to win a copy of the book and a poster of Ransom Riggs' book...all your have to do is watch the trailer and comment somewhere either on the book trailer (YouTube), Rigg's blog, on his twitter, OR on my review of the book. *Please be sure to use both our twitter user names @morganluvsbooks and @randsomriggs so I can keep track of the tweets!* If you comment more than once, you can get extra points! Okay birdies, you know what to do.

Watch the Book Trailer
Read My Review

...............

Enter the Giveaway