Tuesday, May 27, 2008

How to Build a House by Dana Reinhardt This story is about life changing experiences learned
from a teen volunteer program.

Missing the stepmother with whom she was so close,
Harper Evans from Los Angeles joins a tornado relief group meeting in ravaged Bailey, Tennessee.
Through helping others, Harper forms a more positive view of life.
There’s lots to propel this story, including upbeat writing and a well drawn main character.

Monday, May 26, 2008


The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson is about a seventeen year-old girl who by most accounts should be dead. Jenna's parents didn't want to lose their daughter whose life was extensively documented. As a teenager Jenna fought for her own identity. Then came the fiery crash. Her talented father’s bio-engineering lab of skilled scientists brought Jenna back. Bio-genetics clearly crossed legal boundries in this instance. Set in the not too distant future this story focuses on science and life. Reconstructed Jenna seeks and finds an important something not recognized in her old life. The bio-engineering and ethical considerations moved right along with the story. Jenna's final decision at the end was in keeping with her second chance on life. A main aspect was incredible. However, because of the good writing and the questions raised, it was pretty easy to suspend disbelief.

Sunday, May 18, 2008


Braless in Wonderland by Debbie Reed Fischer - This was a delight to read. It presents a realistic view of what it's like to be a teen model in Miami. The characters and storyline felt authentic.

Allee Rosen is an honors program high school senior. She is spotted by modeling scouts while confronting her physically attractive sister auditioning for a spot.

Allee is chosen instead of her sister. Allee at first considers this detour into modeling as a way to break out of her small town and obtain money for college.

From commercial modeling, Allee finds much more than her initial goals.