Science Fiction (9 of 9) A Wrinkle in Time

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L'Engle, M. (1962). A wrinkle in time. New York, NY:  Bantam Doubleday Dell Books for Young Readers.
ISBN-13:  9780440498056
Format:  Paperback
Cost:  $5.99

Annotation:  Meg Murry is a typical awkward teenager, and part of a very smart, strange family, including scientist parents, one of which is missing, a younger brother with strange abilities who only talks to his family, and twin brothers, Sandy & Denny. Meg, her gifted brother, and her friend Calvin are tessered through time and space by strange creatures, Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which, to save Meg's father who is being held by the evil IT on the planet Camazotz behind the darkness.

Awards:  1963 Newberry Medal
1965 Lewis Carroll Shelf Award

Booktalk:  Meg Murry is an insecure awkward teenager whose brilliant scientist father has been missing for over a year. Discover whether Meg, her gifted brother, Charles Wallace, and her friend Calvin will be able to find her father through A Wrinkle in Time.

What is a tesseract? On a dark and stormy night, Meg Murry, a gangly awkward teenager, discovers from Mrs. Whatsit, a strange celestial creature, that a tesseract helps one travel through time and space. Meg's father, a brilliant scientist, had been working on this secret scientific concept when he went missing over a year ago. Mrs. Whatsit and her two companions, Mrs. Who and Mrs. Which, enlist the help of Meg, her specially gifted younger brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin, to rescue Mr. Murry from the evil IT on the planet Camazotz behind the darkness. Many strange adventures occur as Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin learn about friendship, love, courage, and who they really are. Will these time and space travelers be able to rescue Meg's father through A Wrinkle in Time?

Available Formats:  Paperback, Kindle, Library Binding, Audible Audio Edition, Audio CD.

Teen Quote:  13-year-old Sydney P. likes to read science fiction and she is into reading Star Wars books right now. She tries to read every day and reading is one of her favorite pastimes. She really likes to read a good mystery or romantic fantasies. The only social media she uses is Google Plus. This is what she thought of the book, A Wrinkle In Time:

"A Wrinkle In Time was a very good read, it had the components of a mystery but the characters from a fantasy. It is a story of an ordinary girl whose father goes missing and she and her brother and a friend must go to save him from the Big Black Thing. In the end all is right and the story wraps up with a fatnastic close. This was an amazing read. I would recommend this to anyone who loves sci fi."

Multimedia:  In 2003, a movie based on the book, A Wrinkle In Time was made. You can watch a movie clip here:

If you would like to listen to the book, A Wrinkle in Time, you can start with chapter 1 here:

Extra! Extra!  Did you know Mrs. L'Engle wrote quite a few books, and A Wrinkle in Time is the first in a series? Check out all things Madeliene at her website here:  http://www.madeleinelengle.com/.

Here is a Facebook page for the book, A Wrinkle in Time:  https://www.facebook.com/wrinkleintime/.

Multicultural Fiction (1) The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/693208.The_Absolutely_True_Diary_of_a_Part_Time_Indian

Alexie, S. & Forney, E., Illustrator. (2007). The absolutely true diary of a part-time indian. New York, NY:  Little, Brown, and Company.
ISBN-13:  9780316013697
Format:  Paperback
Cost:  $8.99

Annotation:  14-year-old Arnold Spirit Jr. (Junior) is a gifted artist growing up on an Indian reservation in Spokane, Washington. Determined to escape from the poor, alcoholic despondency of the reservation and become a famous cartoonist, he leaves his school to attend a public school far from the reservation and finds it difficult to balance the red Indian world and the white public school world.

Awards:  2007 National Book Awards for Young People's Literature
2007 Boston Globe-Horn Book Award
2007 School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
2008 American Indian Youth Literature Award for Best Young Adult Book
2009 Odyssey Award for Excellence in Audio book Production Honor
2010 American Indian Library Association Award

Booktalk:  This coming of age story is filled with drawings, cartoons, and art that wonderfully reflect the thoughts and feelings of Arnold Spirit, Jr. a.k.a. Junior, a quirky, unusual looking 14-year-old Indian trying to figure out his identity, and desperately wanting to escape the helplessly poor and self-destructive lifestyle that seems to prevail on the Indian reservation:

                                         Image © Sherman Alexie, Ellen Forney, Illustrator

Rowdy is Junior's frenemy protector:

                                         Image © Sherman Alexie, Ellen Forney, Illustrator

But when Junior decides to go to the white public school far away, the friendship is strained:

                                         Image © Sherman Alexie, Ellen Forney, Illustrator

Junior is considered a traitor by the Indians and doesn't quite fit in at the public school. These two worlds are difficult to balance:

                                         Image © Sherman Alexie, Ellen Forney, Illustrator

And when tragedy strikes Junior close to home, he reflects on who he is and what he needs to do to become successful in life. Read this humorous, dark, tragic yet hopeful story of a boy just trying to survive in the middle of two very different worlds.

Available Formats:  Paperback, Kindle, Hardcover, Audible Audio Edition, Audio CD

Quote:  Taken from page 217:

"I wept and wept and wept because I knew that I was never going to drink and because I was never going to kill myself and because I was going to have a better life out in the white world. I realized that I might be a lonely Indian boy, but I was not alone in my loneliness. There were millions of other Americans who had left their birthplaces in search of a dream. I realized that, sure, I was a Spokane Indian. I belonged to that tribe. But I also belonged to the tribe of American immigrants."

Multimedia:  In 2007, Mr. Alexie read a portion of his book and did a radio interview with NPR. You can listen to it here:  http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=14586575.

Extra! Extra!  Check out The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian on Tumblr here:  https://www.tumblr.com/search/the-absolutely-true-diary-of-a-part-time-indian.

Graphic Novel (1) AYA

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/308424.Aya

Abouet, M. & Oubrerie, C. (2007). Aya. Montreal, Quebec, Canada:  Drawn & Quarterly.
ISBN-13:  9781894937900
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $19.95

Annotation:  This fictional graphic novel takes place in Yopougon, or Yop City, on the Ivory Coast of Africa, during the 1970's. Follow the ups and downs of life of 19-year-old Aya, her family, and friends as they work, go to school, enjoy the night-life, have domestic squabbles, and gossip about each other.

Awards:  2006 Best First album, Angoulê International Comics Festival

Booktalk:  The dynamic, warm colors of the drawings in this graphic fiction novel transport the reader to the lively and active Yop City on the Ivory Coast of Africa in the 1970's. An included preface helps the reader understand the culture and history of the story:

                                  Image © Marguerite Abouet, Clément Oubrerie (Illustrator)

And a glossary and useful information about the clothes and food of the culture is found at the back of the book:

                                   Image © Marguerite Abouet, Clément Oubrerie (Illustrator)

Aya, a smart and wise 19-year-old, introduces us to her family and friends, Adjoua and Bintou, and their families and friends:

                                     Image © Marguerite Abouet, Clément Oubrerie (Illustrator)

Life is busy in Yop City, with school and work, but Adjoua and others find time to dance at the disco:

                                  Image © Marguerite Abouet, Clément Oubrerie (Illustrator)

And hook-up in the market square under the stars at night:

                                  Image © Marguerite Abouet, Clément Oubrerie (Illustrator)

Unfortunately, secret connections have a way of becoming uncovered, and when Adjoua finds out she's pregnant with Moussa's baby, there are a lot of issues to be resolved. Moussa is the son of a prominent businessman and Bintou's boyfriend, and Adjoua's father is a working-class journalist:

                                   Image © Marguerite Abouet, Clément Oubrerie (Illustrator)

Will there be a wedding? Read the first book in this trilogy and find out!

Available Formats:  Hardcover

Quote:  Taken from page 84, Bintou confronts Aya about Adjoua:

Bintou:  "Did you know about Adjoua's wedding?"
Aya:  "All of Yopougon knows."
Bintou:  "How could she do this to me?"
Aya:  "Bintou, love is unpredictable. It was an accident, you know."

Multimedia:  Find out more about Marguerite Abouet, the author of Aya here:  http://thebrownbookshelf.com/2010/01/31/marguerite-abouet/.

Extra! Extra!  Did you know Clément Oubrerie, the illustrator for Aya, is Marguerite Abouet's husband? What a talented couple! Check out some pictures from Aya on the publisher's website as well as an excerpt from the book here:  https://www.drawnandquarterly.com/aya.

Science Fiction (8 of 9) Ready Player One

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Cline, E. (2011). Ready player one. New York, NY:  Crown Publishers.
ISBN-13:  978030887436
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $24.00

Annotation:  In the year 2044, high school senior Wade Watts is poor with only one living relative, and like millions of others, spends most of his time in the OASIS, a virtual world created by James Halliday, who, after his death, left puzzles pertaining to 80's trivia to be solved. Wade's whole life has been spent in the virtual world, totally dedicated to the quest of solving all the puzzles, as the winner controls the OASIS and becomes wealthy beyond imagination.

Awards:  2012 Prometheus Award for Best Novel
2012 ALA Alex Award

Mini Book Review:  James Halliday created the OASIS, a virtual world in which people live, work, go to school, and play in the year 2044. Mr. Halliday was quirky, loved 80's trivia, and upon his death, left an impossible puzzle contest for one lucky winner to win the lottery ticket, control the OASIS, and become extremely wealthy. Many people have tried to solve the puzzle for many years, but when high school senior Wade Watts (Parzival in the virtual world), by chance, solves the first puzzle, he opens the door to the onslaught of thousands of puzzle hunters who are willing to kill to win the ultimate prize. Follow Wade on his quest for the ultimate prize, meet his virtual friends and fellow hunters, Art3mis (possible love interest), Aech, Daito, and Shoto, the evil Nolan Sorrento, corporate fiend who will kill anyone that gets in his way, enjoy massive amounts of 80's trivia, and discover what secrets the virtual world conceals from reality.

I highly recommend this exciting adventure quest through an amazingly descriptive virtual reality world. While many people escape into this fake world because reality is so discouraging and ugly, Mr. Cline points out through his story that one can't enjoy life virtually and that real happiness can only be found in the real world. This lesson is extremely relevant in relation to our high tech world and how many hours we waste, I mean spend on computers and playing computer games. This book would be a great addition to a young adult and adult fiction collection in a public or personal library, and a young adult fiction collection in a school library. This book is appropriate for ages 12 and up but be forewarned, it is a long novel. Additionally, older adults will enjoy the nostalgia of the 80's trivia!

Available Formats:  Paperback, Kindle, Hardcover, Audio CD, Audible Audio Edition.

Quote:  Taken from page 364, advice from the virtual avatar Halliday:

"I need to tell you one last thing before I go. Something I didn't figure out for myself until it was already too late." He led me over to the window and motioned out at the landscape stretching out beyond it. "I created the OASIS because I never felt at home in the real world. I didn't know how to connect with people there. I was afraid for all of my life. Right up until I knew it was ending. That was when I realized, as terrifying and painful as reality can be, it's also the only place where you can find true happiness. Because reality is real."

Multimedia:  Here is an interview with author Ernest Cline, about the book Ready Player One:

(Disclaimer to video, please note this video was from 2011, so the book signings at the end have already taken place!)
 Extra! Extra! Once you read Ready Player One, you will be ready to test your knowledge with a quiz game about the story! You can take the quiz here: http://www.shmoop.com/ready-player-one/setting-quiz.html

Science Fiction (7 of 9) Cinder

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/11235712-cinder

Meyer, M. (2012). Cinder. New York, NY:  Feiwel and Friends.
ISBN-13:  9780312641894
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $17.99

Annotation:  This twist on the classic fairy tale, Cinderella, portrays a future New Beijing inhabited by humans and cyborgs, an evil Queen Levana who has special powers and is waiting for her chance to conquer the earth, an evil stepmother, a prince, a princess, a plague, and a ball. Will secrets be revealed and can one teenager save the earth?

Awards:  None

Booktalk:  Linh Cinder is a 16-year-old cyborg who runs a fix it shop in New Beijing. When Prince Kai drops off his android to be fixed, sparks fly and Cinder realizes there is something more going on with the broken android and herself. Meanwhile, Kai's father dies, Kai becomes the emperor, and Queen Levana, ruler of the moon, tries to use her powers to force Kai to marry her so she can conquer the earth. Additionally, there is a terrible plague infecting humans, and when Peony, Cinder's favorite sister, contracts the plague, Cinder's stepmother, out of anger, sends Cinder to become a lab rat for plague research. Dr. Erland discovers Cinder is immune to the plague, which could be a curse and a blessing at the same time. On page 98, Dr. Erland shares this news with Cinder:

"So...I don't have the plague?"
"That's correct, Miss Linh. You do not have the plague."
"And I'm not going to die."
"Correct."
"And I'm not contagious?"
"Yes, yes, yes. Lovely feeling, isn't it?"
"She leaned against the wall. Relief filled her, but it was followed by suspicion. They had given her the plague, but now she was healed? Without any antidote? It felt like a trap, but the orange light was nowhere to be seen. He was telling her the truth, no matter how unbelievable it seemed. "Has this happened before?"
"An impish grin spread across the doctor's weathered face. "You are the first. I have some theories about how it could be possible, but I'll need to run tests, of course."

What does this information reveal about Cinder? Who is she, really? Will she be able to stop Kai from marrying the evil queen and save her sister and many others from the plague? Will she marry Kai and live happily ever after? Read this exciting story and discover some answers!

Available Formats:  Paperback, Kindle, Hardcover, Audio CD, Audible Audio Edition.

Teen Quote:  15-year-old Isabel C. reads some science fiction, but prefers fantasy and paranormal stories. She is quite active in social media, and uses Facebook, Blogspot, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube, but her favorite, by far, is Twitter.

Here is what she thought about the book, Cinder:

"A fun and interesting take on the Cinderella story. I absolutely loved it and can't wait for the final book in the series!"

Multimedia:  If you think you might be interested in reading this book, here is an excerpt from Cinder Lunar Chronicles, Book 1:

Extra! Extra! Did you know Cinder is just the first book in the Lunar Chronicles Series? Check out this fun Blogpost by Ms. Meyer, discussing the traits of the characters she has created here:
http://www.marissameyer.com/blogtype/a-guide-to-lunar-chronicles-character-traits/

On this same blogpost, Ms. Meyer links to her Pinterest board that she uses for inspiration for her series. You can check out her Pinterest board here:  https://www.pinterest.com/marissameyer22/the-lunar-chronicles/.

Chick Lit Fiction (1) Dork Diaries: Tales from a not-so-fabulous life

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Russell, R. R. (2009). Dork diaries:  Tales from a not-so-fabulous life. London, England:  Simon and Schuster UK Ltd.
ISBN-13:  9781471144011
Format:  Paperback
Cost:  $10.70

Annotation:  Nikki J. Maxwell is the new girl at West Chester Country Day, a private middle school. Read her fun and creative personal diary filled with sketches and all the details of her life as she develops friendships, explores her talents, finds a possible boyfriend in Brandon, and figures out where she fits in and who she really is.

Awards:  2010 Children's Choice Book Award for Fifth Grade to Sixth Grade Book of the Year

Booktalk:  In this first book in a series, Nikki J. Maxwell's mom gives her a diary instead of an I-Phone. How lame is that?! Nikki ends up filling the pages of her diary with fun drawings and all her thoughts and feelings as she attends her new private middle school, Westchester Country Day. Find out about mean McKenzie Hollister, "THE most popular girl in the eighth grade" (p. 22), Nikki's new friends Chloe, Zoey, and Brandon (possible love interest), and whether or not Nikki's artistic talents can help her maneuver her way through the eighth grade in a brand new middle school. On page 46, her chance to be successful at school is revealed:

"This morning the halls were plastered with colourful posters from Random Acts of Avant-Garde Art, our annual school art show. I'm SUPER-excited because the first prize for each class is $500 cash! SWEET! That would be enough for me to buy a mobile phone, a new outfit from the mall AND art supplies. But most important, winning that award could transform me from a "socially challenged ART DORK" to a "socially charmed ART DIVA" practically overnight! Who woulda thunk my art skillz could get me into the CCP clique?!"

Will Nikki win the art competition and become popular, or will she just learn to embrace being a Dork?

Available Formats:  Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, Audible Audio Edition, Audio CD.

Quote:  This quote is on p. 43, and is from Nikki's Grandma giving Nikki a bit of advice:

"Sweetie, when life presents challenges, you can be either a CHICKEN or a CHAMPION. The choice is YOURS!"

Multimedia:  Here's a book trailer for Dork Diaries:  Tales from a not-so-fabulous life:

Extra! Extra!  Did you know, Dork Diaries: Tales from a not-so-fabulous life is just the first book in the Dork Diaries Series? If you are a fan of this fun series, then this Dork Diaries Website is a must see for you. Audio excerpts from books, fan art, videos, blogs, oh my! Check it out here: http://dorkdiaries.co.uk/my-diaries.

Did you know, a Dork Diaries movie is in the works?! Get more information here:  http://dorkdiaries.com/tag/dork-diaries-movie/.

Street Fiction (1) Way Too Much Drama

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Sewell, E. (2013). Way too much drama. Toronto, Ontario M3B 3K9, Canada:  Harlequin Kimani TRU
ISBN-13:  9780373534685
Format:  Paperback
Cost:  $9.99

Annotation:  Viviana is a fish out of water living with her cousin Maya's family since her father was killed in prison as a result of Maya's accusation of murder. Viviana seeks revenge by stealing Maya's boyfriend, becomes friends with an abused drug addict, and questions her choices when she finds herself running for her life from the drug addicts forcing her to rob a store.

Awards:  None

Booktalk:  Maya's world is turned upside down when her cousin, Viviana comes to live with her family. Viviana wants revenge because her father was killed in prison as a result of Maya telling the cops he murdered someone. Viviana steals Misalo, Maya's boyfriend, makes friends with LaShaunda, an abused drug addict, steals, and gets into fights. But Viviana is also smart and finds time to be on the school quiz team with Maya, Keysha (Maya's friend), and Misalo. When Viviana answers 10 correct questions in a row, the team wins their first competition. Viviana shares her thoughts on page 178:

"The moment caused me to reflect on my father. I know that he would have been just as proud of me. He would have hugged me or given me a high five. My father was so smart and wonderful that I know he would have helped me learn the material. Since my father wasn't around to celebrate my moment of achievement, the feeling of wanting to be acknowledged did not disappear. I wanted to commemorate the victory of winning with someone special."

Will Viviana show up for the final competition, or is the pull to run away with LaShaunda to strong?

Available Formats:  Paperback, Kindle

Quote:  Taken from page 206:

"The people inside looked at me and cast judgment upon me. Their eyes said that I was a degenerate, immoral and the scum of society. I didn't think I was any of those things, but their eyes told a different story."

Multimedia:  Here's an Excerpt from Way Too Much Drama by Earl Sewell:

Extra! Extra!  Did you know Way Too Much Drama is part of a series, and a Kimani TRU book created for young African-American and multi-cultural teens? You can find out more here:  https://kimanitruseries.wordpress.com/2011/03/29/keysha-and-indigo-the-kimani-tru-series/.

Kimani TRU also has a Facebook page which can be found here:  https://www.facebook.com/KimaniTRU.

Science Fiction (6 of 9) Mockingjay

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Collins, S. (2010. Mockingjay. New York, NY:  Scholastic Press.
ISBN-13:  978043902351
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $17.99

Annotation:  In this final book of The Hunger Games Trilogy, Katniss finds herself as an unwitting pawn and the face of rebellion, as District 13 and their leader, President Coin, uses her as part of their plot to overthrow the Capitol and President Snow. Katniss is left with the final decision of whether or not there will be an end to the evil, or will there just be an exchange of one evil ruler for the other?

Awards:  2010 Voya Perfect Ten
2010 Publisher's Weekly Best Children's Books of the Year for Fiction
2010 Goodreads Choice Award for Favorite Book, Young Adult Fantasy, Favorite Heroine, and Favorite Hero

Mini Book Review:  In this thrilling and intense conclusion to The Hunger Games series, Katnss has been rescued from the Quarter Quell games, Peeta has been captured by the Capitol and President Snow, District 12 has been obliterated, and Gale, Prim, and Katniss's mother are all staying in the underground District 13, which, with the leadership of President Coin, is planning to overthrow the Capitol. Katniss, as the Mockingjay, is to be the face of rebellion to spur the people on to victory, but she is just a pawn, as she discovers all the plans were made without her knowledge. Who will live, who will die, who will rule, and who will Katniss end up with?

This story, detailed and told from the perspective of a 16-year-old girl, gives insight into the decisions we all must make, like who we are, where we fit in, can we make a difference,what is right and wrong, and what love really is. I highly recommend this well written conclusion that highlights the horrors of war, loss, corrupted power, the value of human life, and the importance of sacrifice, trust, love, commitment, and morality. This series should be in school, public, and personal library collections, and is appropriate for all readers ages 12 and up.

Available Formats:  Paperback, Kindle, Hardcover, Audio CD, Audible Auto Edition

Teen Quote:  15-year-old Hannah W. reads almost every day. She reads science fiction sometimes, but her favorite books are adventure stories. Her main source of social media is Facebook.

This is what she thought of Mockingjay:

"I thought it was a bit overkill but was definitely better than the second book, Catching Fire. After the first one, they all go down hill in my opinion."

Multimedia:  Check out the Scholastic book trailer for Mockingjay:

Extra! Extra! Do you like to write fan fiction, or do you like to read fan fiction? If so, you might be interested in this website which highlights some contest winners who wrote stories about what might have happened after Catching Fire, the second book in The Hunger Games Trilogy. Check out the winner's stories here:  https://sites.google.com/site/countdowntomockingjay/.

If you are a fan of The Hunger Games Trilogy, you have probably already seen the movies for The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, and Mockingjay Part 1, and are anxiously awaiting the upcoming movie, Mockingjay Part 2, scheduled for release November 20, 2015. Here is the movie trailer for Mockingjay Part 2:

Science Fiction (5 of 9) The Hunger Games

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/2767052-the-hunger-games

Collins, S. (2009). The hunger games. New York, NY:  Scholastic Press.
ISBN-13:  9780439023481
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $17.99

Annotation:  There are 12 districts surrounding the city capitol, Panem, and each district must send one boy and one girl as a tribute to the annual Hunger Games, a televised fight to the death with only one winner. Katniss Everdeen, a 16-year-old from District 12, volunteers to take the place of her precious 12-year-old sister, Prim, in the games, and is determined to survive no matter what the cost.

Awards:  2008 School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
2008 Boston Globe - Hornbook Award
2008 Cybils Award for Young Adult Fantasy and Science Fiction
2009 Golden Duck Award for Hal Clement Award for Young Adult
2009 The Inky Awards for Silver Inky
2010 Red House Children's Book Award for Older Readers and Overall
2010 Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award
2011 Rebecca Caudil Young Reader's Book Award
2012 BILBY Awards for Older Readers

Booktalk:  This first book in a series, takes place in a post apocalyptic world in which the evil  President Snow of the Capitol, keeps the surrounding 12 districts under control by annually requiring one boy and one girl from each district to participate in the televised Hunger Games that are only over when all are dead but one.

Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers to take the place of her sister, Prim, and Peter Mellark, the baker's son from District 12, travel to the Capitol to prepare for and participate in the games. Katniss is quite talented using a bow and arrow, a skill she learned while spending many hours hunting with her friend Gale (and possible love interest), and discussing the unfair and cruel current conditions of the world. Peeta only knows how to decorate cakes. When Haymitch Abernathy, the mentor assigned to Katniss and Peeta for the games, discovers Peeta's secret love for Katniss, they hatch a plan to have both of them survive the games. Peeta doesn't want to loose his soul in the process of the games, but Katniss just wants to survive and win, no matter what. Once the games begin, Katniss becomes an ally with Rue, the 12-year-old from District 11, that reminds her of Prim. Together, they form a plan to take out the enemy's food supply, but Rue is killed in the process. In chapter 17 on page 236, we see Katniss overwhelmed with this horrible turn of events:

"I can't stop looking at Rue, smaller than ever, a baby animal curled up in a nest of netting. I can't bring myself to leave her like this. Past harm, but seeming utterly defenseless. To hate the boy from District 1, who also appears so vulnerable in death, seems inadequate. It's the Capitol I hate, for doing this to all of us.

Gale's voice is in my head. His ravings against the Capitol no longer pointless, no longer to be ignored. Rue's death has forced me to confront my own fury against the cruelty, the injustice they inflict upon us. But here, even more strongly than at home, I feel my impotence. There's no way to take revenge on the Capitol. Is there?"

Will Katniss and Peeta be able to beat the system and both survive the Hunger Games? More importantly, will Katniss be able to hold on to her humanity in the process?

Available Formats:  Paperback, Kindle, Library Binding (Hardcover), Audible Audio Edition, Audio CD, Video (Movie Version).

Teen Quote:  18-year-old Kaitlyn M. likes to read science fiction books, but she reads almost anything that looks or sounds good! She reads the summaries on the back or inside cover, and if she likes what it says, she will most likely read it. She loves to read and reads almost every day. To keep up with what's happening in her world, she uses both Facebook and Instagram.

This is what she thought about The Hunger Games:

"The Hunger Games was, in my opinion, better written out than on the big screen. I think that it was a very good read and I would read it again!"

Multimedia:  In 2012, the movie, The Hunger Games, came out in movie theaters. Here is the official movie trailer:

Extra! Extra!  Did you know that Suzanne Collins started her writing career as a writer for children's television? She also wrote another series of books before the Hunger Games series called, The Underland Chronicles. You can find out more about Ms. Collins and her fabulous books at her website here:  http://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/index.htm.

If you would like to follow Ms. Collins, her Twitter account is:  @_SuzanneCollins

Science Fiction (4 of 9) Divergent

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Roth, V. (2011). Divergent. New York, NY:  Katherine Tegen Books an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
ISBN-13:  9780062024039
Format:  Paperback
Cost:  $9.99

Annotation:  In this first book of the Divergent Trilogy, Beatrice "Tris" Potter is part of the selfless Abnegation faction, one of five different groups that the people of the post apocalypse society are divided into. Beatrice's aptitude test indicates she is divergent (a rare and dangerous state), but on Choosing Day she moves to the fearless Dauntless faction, which will not only change her life forever but will inevitably alter the dystopian community she lives in.

Awards:  2011 Goodreads Choice Awards Best Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction
2011 Goodreads Choice Awards Favorite Book

Mini Book Review:  In post-apocalyptic Chicago, 16-year-old Beatrice Prior and her family belong to the selfless Abnegation faction. On Choosing Day, Beatrice moves to the fearless Dauntless faction, the group she's always admired. Beatrice's aptitude test revealed she was divergent, retaining characteristics of all factions, which is dangerous because they are a threat to the ruling powers. The initiation process into Dauntless is brutal, difficult, and dangerous, but Tris (Beatrice's new Dauntless name), with the help of Four, her trainer, love interest, and fellow secret divergent, passes, only to discover the Dauntless are being controlled and manipulated by a group of people who want to take over and rule. A battle takes place, and Tris and Four will need courage and strength to stop the take over and face their uncertain future.

This extremely long novel is a great book, but it is not for the faint of heart due to the violence of the initiation process, but the concepts of love, strength, loyalty, and overcoming one's fears makes reading the story well worth the effort. Ms. Roth creates a fascinating world, and her ability to draw one into the story will keep you interested to the very end. Due to the length of the book and the violence, I would recommend this book to an older YA audience. It would be a great addition to a school, young adult, and adult library collection.

Available Formats:  Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, Audio CD, Audible Auto Edition

Quote:  Taken from pages 441, 442:

"Every faction conditions its members to think and act a certain way. And most people do it. For most people, it's not hard to learn, to find a pattern of thought that works and stay that way." "But our minds move in a dozen different directions. We can't be confined to one way of thinking, and that terrifies our leaders. It means we can't be controlled. And it means that no matter what they do, we will always cause trouble for them."

Multimedia:  Check out this great podcast interview of Veronica Roth, the author of Divergent, here:  https://soundcloud.com/harperaudiopresents/14-veronica-roth.

A movie based on the novel, Divergent, came out in 2014. Check out the movie trailer here:

Extra! Extra!  Could you be a Divergent? Check out this Divergent Aptitude Test, and see what your results are!  http://divergentthemovie.com/aptitudetest.

Science Fiction (3 of 9) Life As We Knew It

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/213753.Life_As_We_Knew_It

Pfeffer, S. B. (2006). Life as we knew it. Orlando, FL:  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
ISBN-13:  9780152061548
Format:  Paperback
Cost:  $6.95

Annotation:  When an asteroid hits the moon and knocks it out of place, life on earth will never be the same. Through the pages of the diary of 16-year-old Miranda, the shocking, realistic aftermath of the resulting devastation is portrayed, as well as how Miranda and her family survive.

Awards:   2006 Booklist Editor's Choice Award for Books for Youth (Older Reader's Category)

Booktalk:  What would you do if you had to survive in the aftermath of a devastating natural disaster? After an asteroid knocks the moon out of place, tsunamis, and earthquakes kill thousands of people, knock-out communication and electricity, and leave survivors stuck in their homes with little food, struggling to survive. This first book of the series is written in diary form through the eyes of 16-year-old Miranda from Pennsylvania. The time frame of one year reveals death of beloved friends, the loss of family and friends as they move in search of better survival conditions, sickness, injury and frigid cold. Will Miranda, her mother, and brothers have the courage and strength to survive? Read this eerily realistic science fiction story and find out!

Available Formats:  Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, Audible Audio Edition, Audio CD

Quote:  Taken from page 56:

"It's such a weird way to live. I just can't believe it's going to stay like this much longer. On the other hand, I'm already starting to forget what normal life felt like, clocks that were on time, and lights that went on with the flick of a switch, and Internet, and streetlights, and supermarkets, and McDonald's, and..."

Multimedia:  The author, Susan Beth Pfeffer, has a Facebook page about her book, Life As We Knew It. You can see some videos, quotes, a detailed summary of the book, and some pictures here:  https://www.facebook.com/susan.susanbethpfeffer?fref=ts.

Here is a book trailer of the book:

Extra! Extra!  Did you ever wonder what domino effect might happen if a real catastrophe like this might occur? On Ms. Peffer's blog post, Meteors, Moons, and Me, she discusses her science research for this book and the second book in the series, The Dead And The Gone. Check it out here:  http://susanbethpfeffer.blogspot.com/2008/07/science-of-life-as-we-knew-it-and-dead.html

Fantasy Fiction (1) The Giver

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/3636.The_Giver

Lowry, L. (1993). The giver. New York, NY:  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
ISBN-13:  9780547995663
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $17.99

Annotation:  Jonas lives in what appears to be a perfect controlled world, but when he turns twelve and begins his new life assignment with the Giver, he realizes changes must be made. With the Giver's guidance, he learns that truly living involves good and evil, feelings, pain, pleasure, and emotion, and therein lies the power to make a difference.

Awards:  1994 Newberry Medal Award
1994 Regina Medal Award
1994 Boston Globe Horn Book Award
1996 William Allen White Award
1996 Rebecca Caudill Young Reader's Book Award

Booktalk:  What's it like to live in a controlled world? In this first book of an award winning, dystopian series, 12-year-old Jonas is special and because of that, his life assignment is to be an apprentice to the Giver, the holder of all memories. When Jonas starts receiving memories, he experiences good and evil, pain, joy, sorrow, happiness...emotions. This changes everything. When Jonas is confronted with the fact that Gabriel, the baby his family has been taking care of will be scheduled for release (which means he will be killed), he realizes that he must be the one to do something. With the help of the Giver, will Jonas be able to save the baby and change the community he lives in?

Available Formats:  Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, Audio CD, Audible Audio Edition, Video (of the movie).

Quote:  Taken from page 124:

"He found that he was often angry, now:  irrationally angry at his group mates, that they were satisfied with their lives which had none of the vibrance his own was taking on. And he was angry at himself, that he could not change that for them.

Multimedia:  If you would like to listen to this story, you can find an audio version of The Giver, here:  https://www.edmodo.com/folder/2754603.

In 2014, a movie version based on the book, The Giver, came out in movie theaters. Check out the movie trailer:

Extra! Extra!  Did you know you can play a free trivia game online based on the book, The Giver? Check it out here:  http://www.quia.com/rr/38952.html.

Horror Fiction (1) On Fire:  A Teen Wolf Novel

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/12989106-on-fire

Holder, N. (2012). On fire:  A teen wolf novel. New York, NY:  Gallery Books.
ISBN-13:  9781451674477
Format:  Paperback
Cost:  $11.00

Annotation:  When Scott McCall, a normal teenage guy, was bitten by an Alpha werewolf, his life was changed forever. Will he be able to balance his two worlds, not become a killer, and keep his secret from Allison, her father and family, who's sole purpose is to track and kill werewolves?

Awards:  None

Booktalk:  Would you be able to hide being a werewolf from all you friends and family? An Alpha werewolf bit high school student Scott McCall, and his life was changed forever. In this extension of MTV's hit TV series, Teen Wolf, Scott finds himself in the woods with his girlfriend, Allison Argent, looking for his missing classmate, fellow Lacrosse player and nemesis, Jackson Whitmire. They are not alone. The Alpha wolf is tracking Scott, and Scott has to control morphing into the wolf in front of Allison, the daughter of a father who's secret mission is to track and kill werewolves. Can Scott keep his secret and hold it together long enough to find his lost classmate?

Available Formats:  Paperback, Kindle

Quote:  Taken from page 224:

"Through the hazy smoke above them Scott sensed the werewolf that had bitten him. The monster that had changed his life and was trying to force him into even more extreme changes. His waking, walking nightmare. Scott felt as if he had been plunged into ice, and he shivered, hard. The wolf inside Scott howled crisis, menace, threat; but it also cried pack, belonging, Alpha."

Multimedia:  Nancy Holder, the author of On Fire:  A Teen Wolf Novel, is a New York Time's bestselling author. Check out this interview of her, right when the book was about to be released:
http://enchantedinkpot.blogspot.com/2012/06/interview-nancy-holder-teen-wolf-novel.html.

Extra! Extra!  Did you know, this novel is based on and continues the very popular MTV series, Teen Wolf? Here is a trailer for the book:

Science Fiction (2 of 9) How I Live Now

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/161426.How_I_Live_Now

Rosoff, M. (2004). How I live now. New York, NY:  Wendy Lamb Books.
ISBN-13:  9780385746779
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $16.95

Annotation:  Daisy, a troubled anorexic teenager, is shipped off to England to live with her Aunt Penn and cousins because she doesn't get along with her pregnant stepmother. After she arrives in England, war breaks out, she develops a strange bond with her cousin Edmond, and above all, she discovers how important family really is.

Awards:  2004 Guardian Award
2005 Michael L. Printz Award
2005 Branford Boase Award

Booktalk:  When 15 year old Daisy leaves her comfortable New York City lifestyle to move in with her Aunt Penn and cousins in the countryside of England, her world is turned upside down.

A world war breaks out, Aunt Penn is gone, and Daisy and her cousins are left to fend for themselves. Daisy has a strange mental and physical connection with her cousin Edmond, and when the war finally reaches their idyllic home, they are torn apart and sent on their separate ways. Daisy and Piper, the youngest cousin, struggle to make it back home, and when Daisy can no longer sense Edmond in her mind, she fears the worst has happened. Will they ever find their way back to each other, or is this just How I Live Now?

Available Formats:  Paperback, Library Binding, Kindle, Audio CD, Audible Audio Edition.

Quote:  Taken from page 82:

"I was starting to feel responsible for their safety and happiness and got panicked at the idea of them being captured or corrupted by the outside world."

Multimedia:  Here is a book trailer about the book, How I Live Now:

Extra! Extra!  Did you know that this book is written from the perspective of Daisy, the main character? Since she is a native New Yorker, she uses a lot of colorful cultural language in her narrative. Maybe you can notice this in some of the quotes on the Book Lover's Book Club Tumblr page found here:  http://bookloversbookclub.tumblr.com/post/87662075621/how-i-live-now-quotes.

Science Fiction (1 of 9) Ender's Game

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/375802.Ender_s_Game

Card, O. S. (1991). Ender's game. New York, NY:  Tom Doherty Associates, LLC.
ISBN 13:  9780312932084
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $24.95

Annotation:  Earth is threatened by Buggers, an alien race, and the only hope of destroying the enemy lies with young genetically engineered Andrew "Ender" Wiggin, a genius at simulated war games. But, the earthly battle is not the only battle going on when Ender discovers his compassion for the very enemy he fought.

Awards:  1985 Nebula Award for Best Novel
1986 Hugo Award for Best Novel

Mini Book Review:  Young, genetically engineered Andrew "Ender" Wiggin is the only hope of saving the earth from the Buggers, an alien race that attacked the earth before and threatens to do it again. Ender has the perfect blend of violence, like his brother Peter, and compassion, like his sister Valentine, to become the ultimate general and destroy the enemy. With the help of Colonel Graff, Mazer Rackham, his fellow soldiers, and his amazing talent at simulated war games, victory is achieved. Unfortunately for Ender, the internal battle rages on as he struggles with the emerging compassion he feels for the very enemy he destroyed. Can Ender find peace by becoming, "the speaker for the dead?"

I would highly recommend this well-written award winning novel that is the first in a series. Ender's struggle with the burden of leadership, how he comes to terms with who he is, the consequences of war, and the necessity for compassion are all relevant topics for the world we live in today. These subjects transcend age limitations and children from ages 12 and up would enjoy it. I found this book in both the adult fiction and young adult fiction sections of my public library. Additionally, it should be in all school libraries, and your personal libraries!

Available Formats:  Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, Audio CD, Audible Audio Edition

Teen Quote:  17 year old Liz I. reads science fiction, but really likes Fantasy and Horror books. She reads almost everyday and is active with social media with her presence on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, and Snapchat. Her favorite social media is Tumblr. This is what she thought of Ender's Game:

"I read Ender's Game two years ago because the film was coming out and it scared me slightly because it's about an 8 year old boy who kills a lot of people essentially. It's one of those books you read because everyone reads it but every second of the adventure he went through we as readers follow and I don't know if it's just me, but I want to go in a zero gravity battle room. It explored creative ideas I haven't seen before."

Multimedia:  The author, Orson Scott Card, does not give many interviews. Check out this rare interview from Wired here:  http://www.wired.com/2013/10/cardqa/.

Orson Scott Card also has an amazing website! Check it out here:  http://www.hatrack.com/

Extra! Extra!  Did you know that in 2013, there was a movied based on the book Ender's Game?  Check out the movie trailer here:

LGBTQ Fiction (1) Pink

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8461405-pink

Wilkinson, L. (2009). Pink. HarperCollins Publisher. ISBN-13:  9780061926549
Format:  Paperback
Cost:  $9.99

Annotation:  Teenager Ava Simpson struggles with who she is and where she fits in as she tries to balance between her black and grey world and the perceived perfect pink world she thinks she desires. Ava's journey explores the universal topic of self-identity and the dilemmas she faces through the discovery process.

Awards:  2012 Stonewall Award Honor Book

Booktalk:  Ava Simpson, a teenager in public school, finds herself in a black, grey, charcoal world strongly influenced by her parents and her best friend Chloe, who she thinks she might be in love with.

Ava's not sure she fits into the life she lives because she likes pink which represents all things feminine. When she convinces her parents to send her to the perfect private school, she takes the opportunity to recreate herself while still juggling her old life. At the new school she makes friends with the cool kids and nerdy kids, dates Ethan the handsome jock, and really likes Sam, the lanky red-headed boy she met while working with the stage crew for the school musical. Ava's not sure that this world is perfect either, and when the two world's Ava created intersect, the delicate balance falls apart. All her friends are confused and hurt, and so is Ava! Can she figure out who she is and where she really fits in and mend all her friendships? Read this fiction journey of self-identity and find out if Ava can break the mold of stereotypical Pink.

Available Formats:  Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle  

Quote:  Found on page 257:

"You just have to figure out who you are, and learn to love that."
"If people don't love you for who you are, they're not worth it."

Multimedia:  Here's a video of my Booktalk:

Extra! Extra!  Did you know Lili Wilkinson, the author of Pink is from Australia? If you would like to find out more about Ms. Wilkinson and her books, here's her website:  http://liliwilkinson.com.au/books.

Realistic Fiction (1) The Fault In Our Stars

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fault_in_Our_Stars

Green, J. (2012). The fault in our stars. New York, NY:  Penguin Group.
ISBN-13:  9780525478812
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $17.99

Annotation:  Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters fall in love as they share their fears and concerns with each other. Can two teenager experience all life has to offer even when living with terminal cancer?

Awards:  2013 Children's Choice Book Award

Booktalk:  17-year-old Hazel Grace Lancaster struggles with the concept of death, something we all must face, but some have to face it sooner than others when they are living with terminal cancer.

When Augustus Waters, who also lives with cancer, shows up at the cancer support group Hazel attends, she is so conflicted because he was hot, but what's the point of having a relationship and falling in love when no one is promised tomorrow? Despite her better judgment, Hazel and Augustus develop a tight bond as Augustus shares his fear of oblivion with Hazel, and Hazel shares her favorite book, An Imperial Affliction, with Augustus. Hazel relates to the main character in the story, but the story stops in the middle of a sentence so together, they travel to Amsterdam to meet with the author. Will they find the answers they are desperately seeking? Read this touching realistic fiction love story with a box of tissues at hand, and find out if the pain, joys, and realities of life are worth it in spite of The Fault In Our Stars.

Available Formats:  Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle, Audible Audio Edition, Audio CD, Video (of the movie)

Quote:  This quote is taken from pages 111 and 112, and it is from a letter to Augustus by Peter Van Houten, the author of An Imperial Affliction:

"Everyone in this tale has a rock-solid hamartia: hers, that she is so sick, yours, that you are so well. Were she better or you sicker, then the stars would not be so terribly crossed, but it s the nature of stars to cross, and never was Shakespeare more wrong than when he had Cassius note, "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars/But in ourselves." Easy enough to say when you're a Roman nobleman (or Shakespeare!), but there is no shortage of fault to be found amid our stars."

Multimedia:  Here is a video of my Booktalk:

Extra! Extra!  Did you know a movie came out in 2014 based on the book, The Fault In Our Stars? You can watch the movie trailer here:

 Biography/Non-Fiction (1) Steve Jobs The Man Who Thought Different

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12969593-steve-jobs

Blumenthal, K. (2012). Steve Jobs The Man Who Thought Different. New York, NY:  Feiwel and Friends.
ISBN-13:  9781250015570
Format:  Hardcover
Cost:  $16.99

Annotation:  Steve Jobs was a complicated genius who changed the world with his technology ideas and innovations. Form the beginning of his life as an adopted child through to the end of his life when he died from cancer on October 5, 2011, this story provides a front row seat to the highs, lows, and creative perfectionism that drove this remarkable man's life.

Awards:  YALSA-ALA Excellence in Young Adult Nonfiction Finalist.

Mini Book Review:  This biography follows the life of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Computers, and the man behind the success of Pixar, the IPod, and the IPhone. From his humble beginnings as an adopted child, through his life as a wealthy powerful CEO, and to his death from cancer at the age of 56, this story explores the mind and difficult personality of a man who changed the world with his technology ideas. Learning from his adopted father the value of good quality work, perfectionism and attention to details became the driving force that pushed him on to great things. Steve could be charming or volatile and these characteristics shaped the journey of his life. Some people loved him and some people hated him, but all can agree that he was one of the most creative geniuses and visionaries of our time.

Steve Jobs The Man Who Thought Different is a fascinating, easy to read non-fiction book that young adult readers of all ages will enjoy. I would highly recommend reading this book as it is full of pictures and interesting side notes and facts that help the reader really grasp the full spectrum of the life of Steve and his impact on the computer world. Additionally, an easy to read time line, glossary, bibliography, and notes section at the back of the book will not only help with reading the book, but provides information that will help to explore the topic even further. This book would fit well in both the young adult collection of a school or public library, as well as an adult collection in a public library. In fact, I found a copy in both sections in my public library! This book would be a good fit for patrons from the ages of 12 and up.

Available Formats:  Paperback, Hardcover, Kindle Edition, Audible Audio Edition, Preloaded Digital Audio Player

Quote:  From p. 255:

"In November 2009, Fortune named him "CEO of the Decade" saying the past decade in business belongs to Jobs." Calling him "a showman, a born salesman, a magician who creates a famed reality-distortion field, [and] a tyrannical perfectionist," the magazine noted that in ten years, "he has radically and lucratively reordered three markets - music, movies, and mobile telephones - and his impact on his original industry, computing, has only grown." No wonder, it said he was a worldwide celebrity."

Multimedia:  Here's a video of my mini book review:

Extra! Extra! Here's a book trailer about Steve Jobs The Man Who Thought Different:

Historical Fiction (1) The Book Thief

https://www.overdrive.com/media/347660/the-book-thief

Zusak, M. (2005). The book thief. New York: NY:  Alfred A. Knopf.
ISBN-13:  9780385754729
Format:  Paperback
Cost:  $12.99

Awards:  2006 Horn Book Fanfare
2006 Kirkus Reviews Editors' Choice Award
2006 School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
2006 Daniel Elliott Peace Award
2006 Publishers Weekly Best Children Book of the Year
2006 Booklist Children Editors' Choice
2007 American Library Association's Best Books for Young Adults
2007 Michael L. Printz Honor Book
2007 Book Sense Book of the Year (Indie's choice)
National Jewish Book Award
2014 Edwards Award

Annotation:  Growing up in Nazi Germany during WWII, Liesel Meminger learns the power of words can get her through the extreme highs and lows of life. The human spirit of survival is victorious through the most difficult of circumstances.

Mini Book Review:  Death narrates this intense historical fiction novel about the life and survival of Liesel Meminger, a young German girl growing up in Nazi Germany during WWII. After finding a stolen book under Liesel's mattress, her foster Father, Hans Hubberman, teaches Liesel how to read which helps her deal with loss, love, abandonment, sacrifice, death, survival, and courage throughout her lifetime. Her unlikely friendship with Max, the son of a Jewish friend Hans is indebted to help hide in their basement, thrives as they share their struggles and difficulties with each other. While the inevitable death and destruction of war destroys the majority of Liesel's family and friends, Death questions how life can be so horrible and wonderful at the same time.

The Book Thief is a heavy, long fiction novel about a difficult, tragic time period in history, focused on the life of a young German teenager. Death's perspective is deeply philosophical and the story creates extremely emotional responses even thought it is peppered throughout with lighter moments. I would highly recommend reading this book as the theme of the human spirit of survival in the face of extreme opposition is applauded. This book is well suited for both a young adult library collection in a school, public, or personal library as well as in the adult fiction collection in a public or personal library. It would be a good fit for both young adults and adults alike. 

Available Formats:  Hardcover, Paperback, Audio CD, Audible Audio Edition, Kindle, Video

Quote:  On the power of words from page 147:

"Once, words had rendered Liesel useless, but now, when she sat on the floor, with the mayor's wife at her husband's desk, she felt an innate sense of power. It happened every time she deciphered a new word or pieced together a sentence. She was a girl. In Nazi Germany. How fitting that she was discovering the power of words."

Multimedia:  Here's a video of my mini book review: 

Extra! Extra! Did you know a movie based on the book came out in 2013? Check out the movie trailer here: