Los Gatos Teen Reviews

2009-05-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Sliding on the edge by C.Lee McKenzie – Shawna Stone is 16 years-old.

Shawna’s mom, who’s rather flighty, abandons her in Las Vegas. She leaves the child, who’s become a pretty responsible person - money, a bus ticket to Sacramento, and the phone number of her mother in law, Shawna’s grandmother, Kay. Shawna has never met her grandmother and has heard only her mom's side of the story about her father, who's dead. Shawna has had self abuse and social acceptance issues throughout her life. Kay’s community comes through for the conflicted teen. Shawna, by story’s end, considers reaching out to others. Believable and well written, I was curious about Shawna and wondered if hope and optimism would prevail. The story too emphasized the role of the community in helping conflicted teens. I instantly became involved in the story.
This was a satisfying, good read.

2009-05-04T12:42:00.000-07:00

Willow by Julia Hoban - From the fly leaf: Seven months ago on a rainy March night, Willow Randall’s parents drank
too much wine at dinner and asked her to drive them home. But they never made it – Willow lost control of the car,
and both of her parents were killed.
Now seventeen, Willow has left behind her old home, friends, and school – numbing the grim reality of her new life by
secretly cutting herself. But everything changes when one of Willow’s new classmates, a boy as sensitive and
thoughtful as she is, discovers Willow’s secret and refuses to let her destroy herself.
At first I didn't want to read about a girl who cuts herself. From the outset though, this story rang very true - I hated
to put the book down. The characters and their emotions seem genuine - Even though Willow's bouts with the razor
are cringe worthy - you really care about her and the special relationship she has with Guy. You want both of them to
succeed.

2009-04-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

Mutiny - by John Boyne - A good read, the story got me to investigate further about the subject. It starts out with the reminiscences of of John Jacob Turnstile - Later we become aware of what he has made of his life - which brings you to the beginning of the story - I liked the way the author used that device.
One of a band of young thieves, John Jacob Turnstile has just been caught picking a watch from a gentleman, Matthieu Zela, who refuses to press charges.
The police are intent on sending the boy to prison anyway for this and previous misdeeds. Matthieu Zela intervenes to have the boy sent to sea - The arrangement is agreed upon by the judge. John Jacob Turnstile, nicknamed "Turnip" by a number of the crew, soon finds himself on the journey of a lifetime.
The ship is the Bounty, and this is the infamous story of the mutiny. According to review sources, Mutiny is the first novel to explore all the events relating to the Bounty’s voyage. Bligh and Christian are given more historically accurate looks which diverge from their portrayals in the classic, Mutiny on the Bounty by Nordhoff and Hall.

2009-04-17T14:47:00.000-07:00

Ten Things I Hate About Me is the latest from Does my head look big in this? author Randa Abdel-Fattah. Lebonese Aussi Jamilah lives two lives - A trying-to-fit-in sophomore with bleached blond hair and blue contacts and the daughter of a
taxi driver in a single parent Muslim household as well as a darabuka drummer in an Arab band. Known as "Jamie" to her classmates, Jamilah doesn't let anyone know about her home/cultural life. Jamilah doesn't want negative comments made about her because of her ethnicity. Peter, a boy that likes her, constantly derides others not realizing that Jamie is a member of one such ethnicity. Thanks in part to two friends, Timothy and Amy, She comes to grips with being honest with herself and others by the story's end. I liked the development of the two friendships and the honesty that ensued. What a ride though. Jamilah is a warm humorous sensitive person at the core, and to see her realize that made for a wonderfully good read.

2009-04-07T12:34:00.000-07:00

Alligator Bayou by Donna Jo Napoli - Fourteen-year-old newly immigrated Calogero Scalise and his Sicilian uncles and cousin live in Tallulah, Louisiana in 1898, when racist laws ruled. The story is loosely based on the Tallulah lynchings of 1899. It's a good piece of historical fiction that explores racial conflicts and relationships in a realistic way. It took a bit to get into unlike the author's Hush, an Irish Princess' Tale which totally hooked me from the start. Incidents leading to the lynchings; Mistaken motives; Hunting the animals in the swamp; Calo's love for Patricia and her responses made for an eventful interesting read.

2009-03-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

True Adventures of Charley Darwin by Carolyn Meyer
I enjoyed this book. I'd never read anything about him, although I was familiar with his work, On the Origin of Species. This story is told in the first person,

through Charles Darwin's eyes. He is a likable person, and intensely curious about the world around him. Through Charley, I got a real good view of his world; likes and dislikes.

Although very much a part of an upper class family - where scholarly persuits prevailed, Charley preferred to be outside studying and collecting birds’ eggs, feathers, and insects.

Young Charley Darwin hated school - he had reason too; the boarding school within running distance of his home was dreadful. He was pretty conflicted about what his physician father wanted him to achieve.

The story then takes you on his journey around the world at age twenty-one on the H.M.S. Beagle; An exciting journey that took five years. From his studies and the voyage, he gathered indisputable evidence, and set forth a theory on how evolution works, the theory of natural selection.

We learn too of the special bond he had with Emma, his cousin and friend. This was a good read.

2009-03-23T14:44:00.000-07:00

The mysteries of Beethoven's hair / Russell Martin and Lydia Nibley- good enjoyable read; A page turner and a real mystery. Reading the book prompted me to download a number of Beethoven pieces from iTunes.I enjoyed the mystery of this particular lock of hair – When it was clipped; who owned and treasured the locket; how it was rescued from the Nazis by an unknown Jewish individual who gave the locket to a Danish doctor. From there, the story recounts how the locket eventually found a home at the Beethoven Center at San Jose State University. Analysis of his hair and pieces of his skull revealed much about the poor health and bouts of temperament from which the great composer suffered.

The Secret Journal Of Brett Colton by Kay Lynn Mangum

2009-01-28T06:50:00.000-08:00

This book is about a girl named Kathy Colton. her brother, Brett, died of leukemia when she was two years old. he was only seventeen. her family talks about him all the time and she can't stand it.then, on the night of her 16th birthday, her mom gives her a letter from brett.the letter leads her to a box of his old things and to a journal that was meant for her. she reads the journal bit by bit and slowly comes to know her dead brother. this all happens while she's tutoring the funny big hearted sophmore football star who rather surprisingly has about a million similarities to her own dead brother. this book combines hurt, comfort, tons of inspiration and handful of sparks and makes for the perfect read. i reccomend this book to just about anyone who can handle it. this book contains very emotional content. if you can't handle topics like cancer, death, and some religion. i don't reccomend this book.this book was so moving and touching that by the time i was done reading, i had tears streaming down my face.

Review by Rebekah age 14

Mistik Lake by Martha Brooks

2009-01-09T14:55:00.000-08:00

Jenn's Pick!

This is a slow, gentle sort of book. It is the story of three generations of women. Sally was the sole survivor of a tragic car accident on the frozen Mistik Lake in 1981. Her oldest daughter, Odella, understands her mothers loneliness and burgeoning alcoholism, and tries to hold her family together after her mother runs away to Iceland with a filmmaker. Sally's aunt, Gloria, owns the cabin on Mistik Lake where Odella spends her summers. Gloria also has secrets but she does what she can for Sally's girls. The story is set on the shores of Mistik Lake, where everyone knows everyone, and most people are related if one goes back a generation or two.

How to Ditch Your Fairy by Justine Larbalestier

2008-12-30T18:37:00.000-08:00

Jenn's Pick!

In New Avalon, most people have invisible fairies that provide them with some handy talent or skill. There are loose change fairies, which help their people find loose change. Her friend has a shopping fairy that helps people find great outfits (that are always on sale!) Charlie hates her fairy. She has a parking fairy. She's 14, she can't drive, but people always want her to ride along, so they get good parking spots. She's trying to drive her fairy away by never riding in cars or buses. She hopes if she can get rid of the parking fairy she'll get a new, better fairy. Avoiding cars is causing her some trouble. She keeps getting demerits for being late. Then, her arch-nemesis Fiorenze, who has a fairy that makes every boy her age fall in love with her, decides to help Charlie ditch her fairy. Why would Fiorenze be an expert? Who could possibly want to rid themselves of such a perfect fairy?

2008-12-27T14:47:00.000-08:00

Graceling by Kristin Cashore was a fun adventuresome read. In the story are individuals with special abilities. They live in a country divided by seven kingdoms set in medieval times. Graced individuals are easy to identify; though one might not know their particular inborn skill. The skills can be useful or useless and run the gamut from climbing trees to weather forecasting. Kings acquire useful graced individuals for their courts to do their bidding. In this story, one King possesses the ultimate politician grace unbeknown to those around him. Unfortunately, he seems bent on taking over the entire land. He's eventually found out. Lady Katsa, an ultimate killing machine from one of the other courts confronts the evil king and nearly succumbs to his lies.

Kin : The Good Neighbors by Holly Black

2008-12-11T17:16:00.000-08:00

Jenn's Pick!

Rue Silver's mother has disappeared, and her father has been arrested, suspected of killing both Rue's mother and another college age girl. As Rue attempts to get to the bottom of these mysteries, she learns that her mother was a faerie. Rue is half-faerie. Her mother has disappeared because of a broken promise and if Rue has any hope of getting her back she'll have to go to the faerie world. She must face her own identity and her true family and deal with a fate darker than she expected.

2008-11-23T16:55:00.000-08:00

Emperors of the Ice by Richard Farr is a story within a story of the ill-fated Robert F. Scott expedition to the South Pole 1910-1912. It tells of gathering penguin eggs and other adventures in the face of gale force winds and extremely cold temperatures. The bounds of human endurance seem incredible. The fictionalized slant to very real accounts made for an authentic convincing read. Those early explorers were tough. It is told from the point of view of Apsley Cherry-Garrard. He was a wealthy Oxford graduate who showed real optimism in the face of adversity and seemed willing to take on any challenge. Inwardly, however, he was conflicted.

After the ordeal, Cherry (his nickname) wrote a memoir entitled, The Worst Journey in the World which may be downloaded at http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/14363 .

2008-11-08T16:23:00.000-08:00

Out of the Pocket by Bill Konigsberg is about a popular, talented senior high school quarterback in Southern California. Bobby realizes that he is gay and comes out of the closet sooner than he intends. Bobby’s story is about being honest with yourself – It is about breaking barriers. As Finch, a high school reporter who covertly records and publishes an interview in which the quarterback admits to being gay later says:”Bobby, everyone likes you. You think being gay will stop people …” Bobby gets the better of Finch in fine style. More than that, the story is about the reactions by everyone in Bobby's social sphere including his parents. I liked near the end when a news reporter asked Bobby how it felt to be an openly gay quarterback leading his team to the championship."I don't know, [Bobby replied] kinda like being an openly straight quarterback but with more media attention on me..."

2008-10-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

Right Behind You by Gail Giles -

Great book featuring a teenager who set a boy on fire causing his death. The teenager has just been released from a detention facility to the care of his father. Coming to grips with the past and hope for a brighter future are the focal points of this fine story.

2008-10-12T21:29:00.000-07:00

Bog Child by Siobhan Down was a page turner, although a few of the Irish expressions slowed me down a bit. I knew next to nothing about the politics of Ireland especially in 1981 when this story is set. I got more of a grasp of the ordinariness of people involved in political conflicts by reading this book. I could easily imagine the characters involved. 16 year-old Fergus McCann is an athlete and a student. He finds the body of a girl in a peat bog – she’s met a violent end. Fergus dreams about her. Themes involving the final days of the AD 80 bog child Mel become intertwined with those of Fergus who becomes involved with the resistance. From the fly leaf, the story involves, “sacrifices made in the name of peace, and the unflinching strength of the human spirit.”

2008-10-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

Possibilities of Sainthood by Donna Freitas. Antonia Lucia Labella is a 15 year-old Italian-American student at a Catholic high school. Two things occupy much of Antonia’s thoughts – boys and sainthood. I especially liked Antonia’s choice-making as her expectations mature.

Her father’s death at age seven coupled with his words,” you are the saint of my heart’ has prompted Antonia to routinely write the Vatican; not only making suggestions for new patron saints but to be considered for sainthood herself. Antonia’s aspirations make for a genuinely funny story. Her first kiss is really special – loads of warmth and authenticity throughout. I listened to the audio version. The library also has the print version -

2008-09-28T12:14:00.000-07:00

Cheater by Michael Laser explores the validity of dishonesty to achieve an objective. Super smart high school junior Karl Petrofsky becomes involved with a ring of students who use quite a bit of technology to cheat on classroom tests. One of the ringleaders Blaine tells Karl that “school’s purpose…is to sort us out…if it were really about learning, then grades wouldn’t matter.” Lizette, Karl’s real friend, tells him that “cheating doesn’t help anybody…it’s a matter of pride.” Ethical considerations come into play. Good entertaining read that questions right and wrong.

2008-09-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

MIDNIGHT TWINS BY JACQUELYN MITCHARD

Fast paced light story about identical twins who are mirror images of each other. Meredith and Mallory Brynn change as they become teenagers. Mallory is able to foretell future calamities and Meredith sees outcomes of what has happened. It got a bit confusing in spots. I’d have made them fifteen instead of thirteen. Anyway, all comes out right in the end – very predictable. There are two more books in this planned trilogy. The last book I read by Jacquelyn Mitchard, All we know of Heaven was ever so much more gripping and had more depth of character. Saying that, however, I would still read the next two books in the series.

2008-09-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

The Story of Forgetting by Stefan Merrill Block

The chapters alternate between two families in different states. A member in each family is closely related, though you don’t know who at first. I liked the development of the characters. They come across as very human in dealing with the impact of there situation.

The theme is an aberrant genetic link that binds the two main characters. They both have a common ancestor who suffered from an early onset of Alzheimer’s disease. From the novel I saw how people with memory loss probably cope. I felt the stress put on the families. It was a good optimistic turn to have one family meeting the remains of the other at the end. You can read about the novel and its origins at stefanmerrillblock.com. If you want to learn more about Alzheimer’s visit the website at www.alz.org.

Sunrise over Fallujah, by Walter Dean Myers

2008-09-04T16:17:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

Robin Perry, who becomes known as "Birdy," disobeys his father's wishes and leaves Harlem for the war in Iraq, rather than heading to college. The story follows Birdy and the rest of his Civilian Affairs unit through the first half of 2003, when many thought the war would be over quickly. As part of the Civilian Affairs, or CA, Birdy and his unit are supposed to be making connections with the Iraqi people, offering protection and first aid, seeking intelligence, and generally putting a friendly face on the American presence in Iraq. As the story progresses, the unit is involved in more and more combat, and it's increasingly difficult to tell friend from foe, or to imagine a speedy end to the conflict. Birdy writes home to his parents, and to "Uncle Richie," who is the main character in Meyer's award winning novel about Vietnam, "Fallen Angels."

Woolvs in the Sitee

2008-08-29T15:37:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

A graphic novel story of a boy living, seemingly, in a post-apocalyptic world. We don't know much about him, except that his family is gone, he lives in the basement of his building, alone except for his neighbor upstairs, Missus Radinski. Things may have been bad for quite awhile, as the narrator spells entirely phonetically, as though he's never been to school. He is terrified of the "woolvs," though as the reader, we're never given to know what the "woolvs" are. A short, haunting story, with beautifully dark illustrations, that leave the reader to interpret what happens to the characters after the book closes.

Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr

2008-08-25T16:13:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

Aislinn can see faeries but has spent her whole life pretending they are invisible. Her grandmother, who can also see them, has taught her the only way to avoid the capricious nature of the faeries is to never, never draw their attention. Which is all well and good until faeries, from the royal court, no less, start following Aislinn. She has been chosen by the Summer King, and from that instant, is no longer entirely mortal. She can become one of the immortal Summer Girls, free and easy. She may choose to take the test ordained by the Summer King and Winter Queen. If she passes, she becomes the Summer Queen, immortal and saves both faerie and human-kind from destruction. If she fails, she will be trapped helping the Summer King until he can find the next potential Queen. The only thing that's not an option is remaining human, with her Grams and her best friend turned maybe-boyfriend. Unless she can outsmart the faerie folk.

2008-08-24T09:04:00.000-07:00

And Sometimes Why by Rebecca Johnson. The younger teen daughter in an upper middle class family of four experiences an accident that affects each member differently. A TV game-show celebrity’s life takes an unexpected downturn. Into the mix too are several other characters struggling with the hand they’ve been dealt. The life paths of the different characters cross in this well written thought provoking page-turner. I enjoyed the story; It really affirmed how attitude in the wake of things happening to us can really affect our future.

Slam! by Nick Hornby

2008-08-18T10:47:00.001-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

This is the first thing I've read by Nick Hornby, even though he's got some classics that come highly recommended (like ("About A Boy," and "High Fidelity".) But I'm a believer, I'll read the others. This was one of those books where I didn't know much about the plot when I picked it up. In fact, what I did know was that the book was about a guy, Sam, who is a skater (skate boarder, not ice skater, which he makes clear early on in the book for anyone who might be confused.) I also knew that Sam frequently sought advice from the poster of Tony Hawk hung on his bedroom wall. So there were some surprises in this story for me. (If you want to have the same experience, you should probably stop reading this post.)

Turns out, that in addition to being a skater who seeks advice from a Tony Hawk poster, Sam is also a teenage dad. He's got a new girlfriend, and well, she ends up pregnant. What I liked about it though was the story became much more than a typical teenage cautionary tale. The characters, Sam and his girlfriend Alicia, their parents, the other skaters a the local skate park, they all seemed like people I might know or hang out with. They were really real. Sure, there was just the smallest bit of time travel in this story, but that didn't detract from the realness of it.

I took the combination approach to this story, listening to it as an audio book (love those British accents!) for most of the story, then finishing it off by reading the book.

Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

2008-08-08T15:08:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

First part -- Spoiler Free : Last Saturday was a big day for those of us following the story of Bella the human, her vampire boyfriend Edward, and her werewolf best friend / perhaps potential love interest Jacob. Breaking Dawn was finally here!! If you've got a request on Breaking Dawn here at LGPL, you might want to give a "thank you" to super-library-employee and Stephenie Meyer Fan Carol, who got up early last Saturday, on her day off, went to Costco, and brought us two more copies of the book. She's a hero. For those who haven't read any of the Twilight series, you'll want to do that before reading Breaking Dawn. For those who plan to read Breaking Dawn, but haven't yet, I'll say that it does a good job of wrapping up the story Meyer has been telling us for a few years now. That's all I'm going to say. You should stop reading this review and put yourself on the list for either the book or the audio CD.

Second Part -- Full of Spoilers. Really. Don't read this if you're not done with the book.

I don't know about you, but I was extremely pleased with the way this book turned out. I've heard some folks are unhappy with the tidy happy ending, or that they're upset that Edward and Bella had a kid so soon, and, sure, I get that. But I still liked this book a lot. I read it faster than I read Harry Potter last summer. Then I started it over again right away.

So, Bella and Edward get married, in a lovely Alice-planned wedding. Jacob shows up, that was nice of him wasn't it? We knew he'd be there. I like Seth in this book, he's a good guy. Bella lets slip that she and Edward are going to have sex before she become a vampire, and Jacob becomes furious. We have to question Bella's judgment in sharing this info, but it's good for one last classic Jacob-Edward standoff, isn't it. Bella and Edward leave for their honeymoon on a secluded island owned (of course) by the Cullen family. The new Mr. and Mrs. Cullen have their honeymoon, and low and behold, Bella ends up pregnant. Not just pregnant, but pregnant with something that's growing at an alarming rate. Here come the first two big surprises of the book. 1) Bella turns to Rosemarie for help. Nice. and 2) The middle section of the book is told from Jacob's point of view. Really good call, Stephenie.

Bella's not doing so well, and Jacob can't stay away. There's friction in the pack, when Sam feels he should protect his people by destroying the child Bella's carrying, and most likely Bella in the process. Vampire babies = extremely bad, we learn. It makes sense, they don't have the ability to control themselves, or hide fact that they're vampires, so chaos ensues. Jacob leaves the pack to defend Bella, the baby, and the Cullens. He disobeys a direct order from Sam by finally stepping up to the Alpha plate, and he becomes a pack of one. Briefly. Until both Seth and Leah join him. Sam decides to hold off on destroying the truce, the baby, Bella, and the Cullens, but things are still pretty tense. Bella's all set to die for the baby if she has to, but figures as long as she can keep her heart beating until the baby is delivered, Edward can make her a vampire at the last minute and all will be well. And, essentially, this is what happens. In a gory birth scene, Edward delivers the half-and-half baby, while Jacob performs CPR to keep Bella's heart beating. It's a close call, but Edward injects vampire venom straight into her heart right after the baby is born. Jacob leaves the room thinking Bella has died, and briefly contemplates killing the baby who killed Bells. But, in another great moment in the book, instead, as soon as he sees the babies eyes, he imprints, and is committed to the new little Renesmee for life.

We all saw this coming, right? I've never understood what Team Jacob folks thought would happen when Jacob inevitably imprinted on someone other than Bella. If she'd chosen him, she would have been crushed. Sure, I thought at some points in Eclipse that Stephenie might take us down that road, but I never in my wildest dreams thought that Jacob wouldn't imprint on someone at some point. That it was Bella and Edward's daughter just made things tidy. Some would say "too tidy," but I liked it. This also straightened out the mess with the packs, because it's totally forbidden to harm the object of another wolf's imprinting, you know, for obvious reasons.

Then came my absolute favorite part of the book. Bella as a vampire. Haven't you been wanting to know what it's like to be a vampire? I have been, for three and a half books now! I was going to feel really cheated if somehow Bella ended this book as a human. Luckily Stephenie delivered again, and we got to see all the creek jumping, Emmett arm-wrestling, mountain-lion eating we've been craving. Awesome. I also really enjoyed Bella finding out that Jacob had imprinted on Renesmee, and that he'd done something about that horrible name. It's clever, but really? Not that great a name. And in another unexpected pleasant turn of events, Jacob clued Charlie in, just the right amount, so he can still visit Bella and his new granddaughter. Yes, some people think this was just a little too easy, but again, I liked it!! I refuse to be swayed.

Those were my favorite parts of the story, but for the sake of thoroughness, let's just cover what else happens. Now that werewolves aren't a threat to Renesmee, of course, we've got to bring the Volturi back. Turns out they want an excuse, any excuse, to bring the Cullens down, and they think they've got a good one in the shape of a cute new baby vampire. Since real baby vampires are so destructive, they've been banned, and word gets to the Volturi that the Cullens have created one, thus violating vampire law. Of course we all know that Renesmee isn't a full vampire, she's a Cullen! So she's a nice vampire, but the message gets muddled and the Volturi are set to attack. The Cullens muster the troops, gathering every vampire they can from around the globe to "witness" the showdown with the Volturi. They figure if they can just explain that Renesmee is good, all will be well. But, we all know how the Volturi fight. If Jane and Alec have their way, there will be no time for explanations. Alice and Jasper take off, and most people think it's because Alice has foreseen the Cullen's downfall, and so the mood is generally dour. I think most of us readers never doubted Alice for a second, right? We knew she was coming back. Bella plans for the worst, and gets ready to send Renesmee off into the world with Jacob, while she and Edward stay behind to fight and die. Fortunately, though, it turns out that Bella does have an amazing talent. The same knack that keeps Edward, Aro, Jane and Alec out of her brain can be turned into a shield. So when the Volturi try to attack, it's Bella who keeps everyone safe. Ta-da! Happy ending. Not bad, huh? More than 750 pages in just under six paragraphs.

What did you think? Too easy? Are you devastated that it's over? Do you think Stephenie will write more of the story from Renesmee and Jacob's point of view? Or are you just holding on for the Twilight-from-Edward's perspective? Were you a little disappointed that Bella's talent is "shielding?" Are you as perplexed as I am that suddenly "Jasper" has become "Jazz?" Really? Are we going to start calling Edward "Eddie" next? Did anyone go to the midnight release parties?

Audrey, Wait! by Robin Benway

2008-08-06T19:07:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

If you need one last great summer read before fall hits, check out Audrey, Wait! by Robin Benway. Audrey breaks up with her boyfriend Evan, who happens to be the lead singer for a band that's really not going anywhere. Evan writes a song about their breakup, "Audrey, Wait!" that becomes a smash hit. Pretty soon, paparazzi are following Audrey everywhere, and her reputation is, well, shall we say, tarnished? She's just trying to get past Evan, and perhaps spend some time with her shy, rule obsessed coworker at the Scooper Dooper. Things get out of hand.

This book was funny, clever, and sweet. I enjoyed Audrey's relationships with her parents, and her best friend and her enormous cat, Bendomolena.

If you read "Audrey, Wait" and you like it because it's the insider scoop on someone who's famous but doesn't want to be famous, you should try "Amazing Grace," by Megan Shull.

If you read "Audrey, Wait" and like it for all the great music, try "Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist," by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. We don't seem to have this book at the moment, but we'll get a copy.

2008-08-03T09:41:00.000-07:00

Madapple by Christina Meldrum – Off the beaten path coming of age story involving an odd young woman and a trial involving multiple murders. Aslaug Hellig has been raised and home schooled in isolation by her Danish mother Maren. She grows remarkably knowledgeable about the natural world and literature. She has only the views of her mother about the outside world. Her mother dies of cancer. A neighbor witnesses Aslaug digging a grave for the body in her back yard and notifies the police. “They’ve charged me with what they call abuse of a corpse. To clean Mother, bury her, bless her, was to abuse her, they tell me. And now they are cutting her up.” Aslaug flees to a nearby town to live with her aunt Sara and two cousins Susanne (called Sanne) and Rune. Aslaug becomes pregnant – but because of her state of mind doesn’t realize who the father is. Sara and Sanne are later found dead inside their burned church. At the trial, the prosecution tries to link Aslaug with the Jimson weed (madapple) found in their bodies and Maren’s, as well as the fire. The defense team point to reasons for Aslaug’s behavior. The alternating “trial” chapters are realistic.

More at play here are Aslaug’s sense of reality clashing with societal norms.
This very well written page turner is awash with literary and religious allusions; It even includes a bibliography.

Excellent read! I found the book to be above the fray in young adult literature.

2008-07-31T07:41:00.000-07:00

Ghost of Spirit Bear – Ben Mikaelsen. Seventeen year-old Cole Matthews is back at his old high school and uses newly learned skills to affect change. Cole is a violent teen who responded positively to a year on a remote Alaskan island to learn other ways of dealing with problems. He returns to his Minnesotan high school and actually utilizes his newly found coping skills. Attendant to achieving positive outcomes, Cole discovers leadership qualities within himself instrumental to producing major reform changes at his high school.

This short problem solving novel aimed at young teens showed positive ways of dealing with anger producing situations - thanks to the Tlinglit ways taught by his probation officer, Garvey who recommended Cole to the Island. I liked the story not so much for the plot but rather the messages it conveyed. “…he (Cole) learned to focus on the good. A good day wasn’t a day without clouds but rather a day where one focused on finding the sunlight behind the clouds.”

2008-07-03T12:04:00.000-07:00

I Heart You, You Haunt Me, by Lisa Schroeder -

Ava and Jackson are happily in love...until Jackson is killed and Ava, heartbroken, is left to deal with her guilt and grief. Even though Jackson is dead, he comes back to Ava as a ghost, unable to move on until Ava lets go of her guilt.

Written in verses, this book is sure to haunt you with its unusual story and leave you in tears at the end.

Shawna

2008-06-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

the nature of jade by Deb Caletti is the story of a 17 year-old over achiever. Jade has suffered for several years from Panic Disorder. Watching webcams of the local zoo’s animals, especially the elephants are calming for her. On successive afternoons she watches a boy not much older than herself appear at the elephant section with an infant. Jade becomes a volunteer at the zoo; meets Sebastian and her life changes.

Good read. Interesting were the insights into animal behavior. I liked the way the plot developed – inspiring Jade to find a real truth. Deb Caletti has other fine books out as well. Visit her website. See what other Deb Caletti books we have here at the library.

2008-06-16T11:30:00.000-07:00

All we know of heaven by Jacquelyn Mitchard is about best friends involved in a horrendous auto accident involving a Toyota and a truck on an icy road. One of the teenagers survives.

Because of their condition, Maureen is mistaken for Bridget – they are very similar in physical stature. Family and friends prepare for the situation, Burial services are held for Maureen. Then when positive identification is made, all sorts of emotions come into play. Seeing the characters readapting to the change of circumstances was gripping. I was right there for Maureen to make it through her physical, emotional, and interpersonal travails. The author states in her acknowledgements that “Although at least two separate and heart-wrenching cases of mistaken identity after a motor vehicle accident have really happened over the past decade, there is no intentional similarity to the experiences of any actual family or individual.” That said, you would be hard pressed to say that this story sounded fabricated in any way.

2008-06-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

the dead & the gone by Susan Beth Pfeffer is a companion piece to Life As We Knew It. The premise of both is that an asteroid has thrown the moon into an orbit closer to the Earth.

In the dead & the gone, the main focus is on a devoutly Catholic Puerto Rican Family in New York City. Seventeen year old Alex takes on the responsibility of two siblings.

I thought it was very well played out – The characters run through a gamut of honest emotions trying to deal with the life changing world events. I liked how the characters struggled with rules and order to keep living. Father Mulrooney’s words of, “As the world collapses around us, it is learning and culture that will prevent us from becoming barbarians.” At another point in the story Father Mulrooney points out, “These are the worst of times…rules are needed even more now. Without them there is anarchy.” Great stuff, and another perspective about life after the asteroid hits.

this lullaby by Sarah Dessen

2008-06-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

I've been meaning to read something by Sarah Dessen for awhile now, since her books are a) never on the shelf and b) always have pretty covers. When I saw a copy of "this lullaby" on the Friends of the Library Book Sale shelves, I figured that was as clear a sign as I was going to get. I liked this lullaby a lot. I liked cranky Remy, who was so busy planning her mother's fifth wedding and breaking up with the latest in a long string of boyfriends that she had no time or interest when goofy Dexter walked up to her and announced they had chemistry. I liked how Remy was always Remy, how she didn't end up getting gushy, how she was mad at herself for buying Dexter silverware. I liked her girlfriends, and how she tells Perfect Paul (another boyfriend) that no, there's no way they can hang out on Girl's Night, that only losers ditch their girl friends for a guy on Girls Night. All in all, I'll read more of Sarah Dessen. Which should I read next? Suggestions as comments greatly appreciated.

The Host, by Stephenie Meyer

2008-06-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

Stephenie Meyer's first Adult novel is a good snack in between the courses of the gigantic meal that is the Twilight Saga--something to tide us all over. Stephanie's calling this story "sci-fi for people who don't like sci-fi." We tested that at the library, giving it to Diane, who really, really, *really* doesn't like sci-fi. And she liked this!

The general idea is that a bunch of aliens, called Souls, have invaded Earth and taken up residence inside human beings. Aside from the fact that the human's consciousnesses (if that's a word) have been consumed, things are pretty good. There's no more violence, people don't need money, and though it's not mentioned specifically, I'm sure the Souls took care of the global warming situation too. The story centers on a Soul named Wanderer, who's a bit of a legend among her people, known for her extensive travels and lives on different planets. She takes up residence in the body of a woman named Melanie. Things get interesting when Melanie doesn't just fade away like she's supposed to do. She's there with Wanderer, and she tries to gain her sympathies by sharing stories of her brother Jamie and her boyfriend Jared.

Definitely worth a read, though this one is a bit of a slow starter. By page 300, though, you'll have that familiar Stephenie Meyer "what was my life like before this book?" feeling.

We've got this title on audio if you prefer, or you'll find this in the new book section upstairs (since it's an adult title.) If you haven't had a chance to check out our new Bestseller Collection, now's the time, since we have an additional copy of The Host there as well. The Bestseller Collection is with the New Books, and it's full of titles that are in high demand. They circulate for one week, and you can't put them on hold, so you just have to see what's in stock when you get here.

2008-05-27T09:38:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-05-26T22:23:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-05-18T12:18:00.000-07:00

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.

Dramarama by E. Lockhart

2008-04-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

This is a light, fluffy sort of read--the story of two friends friends who set off to drama camp thinking it will change their lives and get them out of their humdrum town. The plan works for Desi, but not so much for Sayde.

I wasn't a Drama Person, in my teen years. I was just barely cool enough to be a part time Band Person, if you see what I'm saying. So I can't really speak to the Drama Camp experience in this book, whether it's realistic or overdone or just plain weird. It was believable enough for me to finish the book.

I've read some folks that were unhappy with the ending of this book. They thought Sayde gave up everything that made her unique and sparkly and fantastic. At the end of the book, I was pretty pleased with Sayde. I thought she was coming to grips with how friendships change over time, and how even your dreams of the future change over time, and she was learning about what kind of fantastic she'd be next. Could go either way. If you've read this one, chime in and tell me what you think. Did Sayde change for the better, or for the worse?

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

2008-04-28T12:11:00.001-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

Did you read Tangerine by Edward Bloor? If you didn't, you probably should. If you did read it, and you liked it, try this book. I was reading Part-Time Indian, thinking, "You know, the main character in this book reminds me a lot of Paul from Tangerine." I turned the page, kept reading, and on the very next page Junior, the main character of Part-Time Indian said that Tangerine was his favorite book! I was excited about this for two reasons. 1) Obviously, I'm psychic. and 2) I like it when authors call out to each other like that. Probably, Sherman Alexi liked Tangerine, or at least, he's read it, and he's sort of giving Edward Bloor a high-five by making it Junior's favorite book.

Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a good read, about a kid stuck in between two worlds that just don't mesh. It's really sad in places, gut wrenchingly sad (the kid's dog dies before the end of the first chapter, kind of sad.) It's also a strange kind of hopeful, too. Not the kind of hopeful that makes you think "Yeah. Right." The kind of hopeful you could sort of imagine yourself feeling in the same situations. A grim but realistic hopeful, if you see what I mean.

It's also got some great illustrations, that remind me a bit of Diary of a Wimpy Kid

This book was a National Book Award Winner, and though I don't always agree with the way these things are handed out, in this case, it's perfectly clear. We've got this one in the Kids Room, so while you're over there, you can also grab Tangerine.

As a side note, I've tried some of Bloor's other books, and haven't been wild about them. Anyone got a favorite Bloor, other than Tangerine that I should try? Leave us a comment and tell us about it.

2008-04-26T18:14:00.000-07:00

A Curse Dark as Gold by Elizabeth C. Bunce - A spiffed-up retelling of the Rumpelstiltskin story – The setting for this tale is a woolen mill in a small village in 18^th Century England. To get out of debt, Charlotte and her sister Rosie enlist the help of a mysterious person. The author presents us with a real sense for those superstitious times with a bit of magic thrown in. I liked the way the story was resolved – It made sense.

2008-04-17T07:59:00.000-07:00

Fight Game by Kate Wild – This is a fast paced read. The setting is England – British references abound.

Freedom Smith, dismissed by many as “trailer trash”, has inherited a super power fight gene from his great, great, great grandpa.

The condition has caused him much grief; since he is basically a good kid, yet is continually in trouble with the police. Through a twist of fate,

Freedom becomes involved with a secretive police unit to infiltrate an illegal fight club. The ending left me wanting a sequel.

2008-04-06T22:06:00.001-07:00

Sisters in Sanity by Gayle Forman – 16 year old Brit Hemphill is sent to rough disciplined Red Rock Academy.

She finds all is not what it seems and launches a fight to close the facility located in a remote section of Utah.

I liked the interplay of the characters; The actual realizations of root problems and finding real solutions which

were at odds with those of the staff. I cared about the main characters; it was a page turner that kept me wondering

what would happen next.

2008-03-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

Good Enough by Paula Yoo - Well told story about Korean-American first generation Patti Yoon, a high school senior. Patti is an exceptionally bright student. Patti strives to achieve her parents’ expectations to be accepted by YaleHarvardPrinceton. Patti also is an exceptional violinist who learns a lot from a new trumpet player in the orchestra. I liked the way the relationship was handled. There’s a warm humor to the book that I really appreciated. The story is about achievement, love, success, happiness. It includes recipes for life and Spam (the canned lunchmeat).

I'll ask you three times, are you ok? : tales of driving and being driven

2008-03-21T15:19:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

I have a friend who has struck up a friendship with a guy who called her from India one night to try to sell her a satellite dish. My friend isn't particularly interested in satellite dishes (she doesn't have a TV,) but she's one of those people, I'm sure you know them too, who can just connect with anyone, under any circumstances. That's what this book is about, even though it claims to be about "tales of driving and being driven." True, all the stories take place while the author is driving her own car or riding in a taxi, but mostly, it's about how she tries to learn a little something about the world from everyone who crosses her path. Each chapter is its own new story, and I'd suggest taking this one slowly, because all the stories do start to sound alike if you try and read it straight through.

The weakest part of this book is the title, which makes it sound a little like a self-help title. It's explained in the first story, but still, I think Naomi Shihab Nye could have come up with something better. Otherwise, it's worth a read.

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle

2008-03-21T15:03:00.000-07:00

Jenn's Pick!

Get yourself ready for earth day with this great (true) story about a family living for one year eating only food grown locally. I'm a huge fan of Barbara Kingsolver, ("Prodigal Summer," and "Animal Dreams" are my favorites, but I've read them all,) and this was fun because it was written by her whole family. Her oldest daughter, in her first year at college, wrote essays about the experience, and the younger daughter saved up for a horse selling eggs from her chickens. This book will change the way you think about your food. I've given up bananas and started checking my milk to see where it came from. It's also somehow extremely entertaining.

We have this title in several formats. Book, audiobook, and the MP3 audiobook. I checked out the MP3 version; its read by the authors.

2008-03-16T17:21:00.000-07:00

Opposite of Invisible by Liz Gallagher - Happy page turner I wished I had read immediately after the most serious yet immensely readable Hush - An Irish Princess Tale. Gallagher's story is about first crush and realistic expectations. I enjoyed it because of the realistic characters and situations. Alice and Jewel have been friends for many years - Alice takes a liking for popular Simon causing her to re-evaluate her relationship with Julian(Jewel).

2008-03-16T17:12:00.000-07:00

Snow Falling in Spring by Moying Li - Movingly portrays the author's involvement in the failed plans of the Government after World War II. In one such failing - She and her brother as children helped in Chairman Mao's declared war on sparrows - their eradication however caused a worse insect problem which in turn caused destruction of crops. The famine and drought that ensued caused millions of people to die. Moying Li tells us about the destruction of books and arresting of educators. Moying Li continued to educate herself forming a secret reading club. The Government goes through changes. The Cultural Revolution officially ends in 1976 and Moying Li takes advantage by entering Language School. Because so many educators have either been killed or ousted she is offered a promotion to "teacher.' Moying Li however, opts to become one of the first students since 1949 to study in America.

Wednesday April 2nd 3:30-4:30 pm

2008-03-11T11:37:00.001-07:00

Kenny Blackwell and Dorian Michael will be at our Teen Cafe Wednesday April 2nd from 3:30 to 4:30 pm. Come listen to them!!
Free food and drinks!

2008-03-09T20:17:00.000-07:00

Posh by Lucy Jackson - This story presents sketches of very different people who attend an upscale Manhattan School. The character studies and relationships are spot on. It doesn't matter how much money you have - Same problems remain. Good Read.

2008-03-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

She's So Money by Cherry Cheva

This was a rather fun mindless affair and especially welcome after just spending months in medieval Europe with an enslaved Irish Princess. Camden King works very hard in school and at the family's Thai restaurant. Complications arise - She needs $10,000 to make things right - then another $5,000. A rich self absorbed handsome twit becomes her guy - Happy fast read.

TEEN TECH WEEK MARCH 3-7 2008

2008-02-28T13:42:00.000-08:00

Los Gatos Public Library - Most Popular Student Databases

25 self-directed tech activities for teens

2008-02-17T10:58:00.000-08:00

Big Fat Manifesto by Susan Vaught

Jamie Carcaterra is fat. She is a senior and writes a regular column for her school newspaper where she delves into overweight issues. A relationship changing event causes Jamie to re-examine her views on acceptance, love and self-image.

Three things I liked most about the story: Jamie's character is totally believable; there is a sense of optimism and humor, and Jamie sees herself more clearly as a result of the story.

2008-02-17T10:47:00.000-08:00

Missing Girl - Norma Fox Mazer

One of five sisters is imprisoned by a pederast.

That’s the basic plot – Much of the story sets the stage. The sisters are: Beauty, Mim, Stevie (Faithful), Fancy and Autumn.

Each day this particular man watches, selects and fantasizes as the group passes by him.

Congratulating himself on not abducting his choice at a chance meeting, the man appears content to fantasize.

I liked the plot development from the perspective of each sister as well as the lonely man/stalker/pederast.

The ending was faithful to the characters in the story.

Week of February 10, 2008

2008-02-11T10:01:00.000-08:00

Wonton Soup James Stokoe is a graphic novel. This first volume of a presumed series features Johnny Boyo, one of the premiere chefs in the galaxy who's currently in charge of a space delivery truck.
We spend time in Johnny's world travelling through space. As the story progresses, Johnny returns to his home planet and visits his old cooking school. The result is a cook-off ala Iron Chef of the Universe.
The book is comprised of many wildly adventurous humor-ladened chapters, that, for me were better to sample in small servings.
I enjoyed the storyline and Stokoe's artwork. He has quite an imagination.

Sight by Adrienne Maria Vrettos - 15 year-old Dylan has a secret she withholds from all her friends. Her mother, the sheriff and lead deputy in this small town of Pine Mountain (Paradise) know that Dylan has the psychic ability to see recently dead abducted children. She has helped the police solve eight abductions as the book begins. The first thing that struck me was that there sure were a lot of abductions for a small town area. But the strain in credulity is made up by the good writing.
Dylan is particularly haunted by her first vision - the death of a five-year-old classmate named Clarence. A new girl, Cate, moves to town with her father. With Cate, the tragedy of Clarence is finally resolved.

Jenn's Picks

2008-02-11T09:28:00.000-08:00

Life as We Knew it by Susan Beth Pfeffer;

This is the story of 16-year-old Miranda and her family, and what their lives were like after a meteor crashed into the moon, shoving it much closer to the earth. I've read a few post-apocalypse stories, and I find them interesting. I actually enjoyed the movie "The Day After Tomorrow." This book though, was perhaps the scariest disaster book I've encountered. Not because of what happened to the family exactly, but because of how believable I found the story to be. This book made me want to stock up on canned goods. Read it on a day when you can stay up late, because it's very gripping. Next, I'm going to read "The Dead and the Gone," also by Pfeffer, which is the story of the same cataclysmic moon-meteor impact as lived by other characters.

I've been reading a few "Novels in Verse," just because I hadn't read any. I didn't expect to like them, I don't mind telling you. I'm not wild about poetry, and somehow "Novels in Verse" seemed like it could be code for "A lot of poetry from people who couldn't make it in the Poetry World."

I was way off base though, at least so far. I've read two that I particularly liked, listed below. What I like about the "Novel in Verse" style is that you get right into the story, not a lot of extra fluff. It's just the action, but beautifully worded action. And they are quick reads.

Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandell

An interpretation of the story of Elaine of Shallot, one of the tales of Arthurian legend. A great version of Elaine, she's a complete tomboy, she and her brother's have grown up in one of Arthur's war camps. I'm a big fan of Arthur tales, and if you are too, I'll say only this: This story doesn't end the way you think it will.

What My Mother Doesn't Know by Sonya Sones

A fun story about a girl names Sophie who's on the quest for the perfect relationship. She thinks she's found the perfect guy in Dylan, but then she keeps thinking about Murphy from her art class, and she's really connecting with a guy she's met online, and then there's the masked mystery man from her Halloween Dance. She's got two great girl friends to help her figure it out, which is good because her parents aren't paying her much attention. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel, "What My Girlfriend Doesn't Know."

Week of February 3, 2008

2008-02-03T14:43:00.000-08:00

No Shortcuts to the Top by Ed Viesturs with David Roberts read by Ed Viesturs - It's quite a story
about achieving your inner goals. Ed became a veterinarian but found the profession's demands conflicted with what he really wanted to do - climb mountains and be really good at it. As a result Ed Viesturs is now regarded as one of the best high altitude mountaineers in the country.He recently completed climbing 14 of the world's highest peaks
I liked his style of not taking unecessary risks; His caring for others.
The trouble with listening to this adventure is that I didn't know a lot about particular mountains and foreign names;
So I went to Ed's website and followed his trail.

The Plain Janes by Cecil Castellucci - Jane survives a catastrophic event that happens to her city. A Polish artist survives as well though he is hospitalized. Jane takes his sketchbook. She also recovers a dandelion that is unscathed.
Her family moves to the country - the story centers on Jane's orchestrating the direction of a
group of misfit students each named "Jane." She creates P.L.A.I.N. for "People Loving Art in Neighborhoods."
The Plain Janes produce innovative art constructs much to the consernation of the local town sheriff.
A bit confusing but an Okay read for me. The book received a starred review in Booklist.

Jenn's Picks

2008-01-31T10:47:00.000-08:00

Twilight, New Moon and Eclipse by Stephanie Meyer;

I'm late to the party on this series of books, I know, but wow, I may make up for it in the sheer force of my obsession. I read these three books through TWICE in the space of about two weeks. For those who may not have read them yet, they are the story of Bella Swan, who's moved to cloudy, rainy, dreary Forks, Washington to live with her dad. In her new town she falls in love with a vampire, finds a new best friend who's a werewolf, and well, adventure follows. If you like vampire / werewolf stories, you might like these. If you like hopelessly gooey, eternally heart-wrenching love stories (wherein the characters say things like "You are my life now....") then you need to read these books ASAP.

Several of of LGPL-ers went to a talk last week about Great New YA books from 2007 and 2008, and we're reading them as fast as we can get our hands on them. Here are some I tried this week:

The Beautiful Miscellaneous by Dominic Smith;

I was drawn to this book, hoping for another "An Abundance of Katherines," and I didn't exactly get what I expected. The story is about a boy, Nathan, who's parents keep hoping he'll show some signs of genius. His dad is a quantum physicist who has a tendency to take him to the Stanford Linear Accelerator for his birthday, rather than Disneyland. Then, Nathan is in a car accident, and when he wakes up he has a photographic memory and a case of synesthesia (which I had already learned about on an episode of "House".) Even still, with his new-found genius, he and his dad still have a hard time. It's not lighthearted, like "An Abundance of Katherines," but still an intriguing read. We've got this on in our adult collection.

Hush : an Irish princess' tale by Donna Jo Napoli.;

This is a hard book to "enjoy" in the strictest sense of the word. It's very well written, and I was thinking about it whenever I wasn't reading it, but it's a rather sad book, all in all. The story starts in Ireland, in the 900s, where Melkorka is an Irish princess. She's captured by a Viking slaving ship, headed for Iceland. While captive, she refuses to speak, and the Vikings think she is a stork / witch. She's comparatively well treated, and she refines her views of slavery, obviously. All in all, I'd say it's worth a read, but maybe be prepared to follow it up with something a little more lighthearted.

Laika by Nick Abadzis ;

Another sad but compelling story. The story of Laika, the dog that was aboard Sputnik II, the first living being in space. A really informative look at the story of Sputnik, and some of the characters involved in building the satellites and working with the animals. Again, grab something light for when when you finish this one.

Week of January 27, 2008

2008-01-27T12:17:00.000-08:00

Beastly by Alex Flinn - This veritable page turner hooked me from the start.
It tells the story of Kyle Kingsbury's oh so superficial beauty and the cause for him to be changed into a beast by a being "as old as the ages and young as the dawn..."
Early on, Kyle has been cruel to the less beautiful..."Second grade, you told Terry Fisher that the reason her head was lopsided was because her mother had slamed it in the car door. She cried for an hour."
Enter Kendra, expelled to New York City for being impulsive too often - "turn someone into a frog first, ask questions later." Kyle's now 15 years old - he's matured into someone so "horrible and insensitive" that Kendra (the witch) takes action - "you've used beauty to be cruel to those less fortunate."
The story is interspersed with pages of a chatroom helpline in which Beast is a part; the members include a frog - One can't help but speculate if Kendra had a hand in this as well.
Beauty takes the form of a kindred spirit from a life that superficially looks
quite opposite of Kyle's yet we see as similar.
I'd recommend this story for all teenagers and beyond. It's very well told,
thought out, and adapted for modern times.

The Braid by Helen Frost - An interesting story told in poetic form of a poor Scottish family torn apart in 1850 when they are expelled from their home.
Braids of interwoven hairlocks are exchanged by two of the daughters - "She'd cut the braid close to our heads, tucked half into my hand - You/me/sisters/always."
What I liked best about the story was the poetic form. The words depict situations, bare plot. A lot is happening that's left to the imagination.
If you want a fast paced short book on the immigrant experience, Braid would be a consideration. I'd recommed it for older teens and adults.

Week of January 20, 2008

2008-01-20T20:08:00.000-08:00

Safe by Susan Shaw – 13 year old Tracy is attacked and brutally beaten. The person that Tracy had depended on to keep her safe before was her deceased mom. The focus of this short gripping book is how Tracy finds a positive path to heal her broken spirit. It was a good read.

Finding Daddy by Louise Plummer – Mira can’t understand why her mother is mum about the father she doesn’t remember. Nearly 16 years old, she decides to find him herself.
The result is horrific. A real page turner even though
I knew early on why her mother didn’t tell her. - Cheryl

Ada Blackjack, a true story of survival in the Arctic by Jennifer Niven - An Alaskan Native American in 1921 joins an all male expedition to a remote island off of Russia as their seamstress. The group faces many hardships; its main goal a sham. One explorer had been on another disastrous expedition organized by the same lecturer/adventurer several years before (Ice Master –The doomed 1913 voyage of the Karluk by Jennifer Niven). This time he was not so lucky. She alone survived on the island – to be rescued in August, 1923. Both are gripping adventure stories – very well written. Both books really sparked my interest about survival in extreme conditions.

Week of January 12, 2008

2008-01-13T15:35:00.000-08:00

Download an audiobook to your PC. Twilight and New moon, part of the popular romantic vampire trilogy by Stephenie Meyer are but two of many available through our digital library consortium.

Eclipse, the last of the trilogy is available as a CD audiobook.

Week of January 5, 2008

2008-01-06T21:46:00.000-08:00

Gingerbread by Rachel Cohn -- A series of books (the next two are called "Shrimp" and "Cupcake") with a great main character, Cyd Charisse. Cyd goes through a lot in these three books, moves from one family member's house to the next and breaking up and getting back together (and breaking up and getting back together) with her boyfriend Shrimp, and trying to decide what she wants to do with her life. Liked this one so much I went out and bought a copy of it for my home collection. Sometimes Cyd's decisions make me roll my eyes, but she ALWAYS makes me laugh.

-Jenn

The Blue Girl, by Charles de Lint -- A classic story of two non-popular girls trying to make their way at high school, while dealing with the ghost who haunts their hallways and a few unpredictable fairies (not the sweet fluffy kind.) This was my first book by de Lint, and from what I've read, he has several books set in the town of Newford, where The Blue Girl takes place. I'd definitely read more.

-Jenn

Winterdance, by Gary Paulsen -- This one's downstairs in the adult non-fiction collection, but it's worth the trip. The story of a guy who decides to run the Iditarod dog sled race. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, given that I didn't have much of an interest in dog sled racing. It's thrilling, but also downright funny. Laugh out loud on an airplane funny. Any dog lover has to read this book.

-Jenn

Clubbing by Andi Watson is an illustrated story set in United Kingdom with a likeable city goth girl from London. I liked the way Lottie lets the reader in on what’s happening. She’s a delight. Her adventure involves misperceptions and a secret cult. Even a dragon figures into the mix.

Trickster’s queen by Tamora Pierce continues Alianne of Pirate’s

Swoop’s adventures as a spy. Will her expanding group of conspirators succeed in overthrowing the current regime and place their queen in power? A good very imaginative read.

Week of December 30, 2007

2007-12-30T17:11:00.000-08:00

So B. It by Sarah Weeks

It was very good. :-) All my friends told me to read it and

when i did it was very good.
About a girl and her mentally disabled mother and finding out who she is.

- Julie

Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

I listened to this book. Took a bit at first to get involved in the story; well done though. It’s about a girl who discovers that it doesn’t make any difference what she does, people see her individuality.

- Cheryl

Trickster’s Choice by Tamora Pierce

For any reader looking for a good escape yarn. An adventure filled fantasy replete with gods, tricksters, warring tribes, spies, and magic.

I listened to the audio version of this book.

Poison Apples by Lily Archer

Imagine a different take on the Cinderella evil stepmother story:

Upscale teenagers plot revenge on their stepmothers. I found this to be a humorous well-written story.

Boy Toy by Barry Lyga

Although you know what’s coming – student molested by his high school history teacher, the story gives the characters involved depth –

there isn’t black and white here. Well written.

Week of December 23, 2007

2007-12-23T19:46:00.000-08:00

Get Well Soon by Julie Halpern
Good story – Setting is a mental hospital. The story related through Anna’s eyes is told with humor and warmth.

Looking for J.J. by Anne Cassidy
New identity, new life – She readily accepts and regrets the murder, why won’t others let Jennifer Jones move on?

Freak by Marcella Pikley features an unattractive laughed at girl who not only stands up for herself
but defends the primary bully who’s been attacking her. A powerful read.

Week of December 16, 2007

2007-12-16T16:59:00.000-08:00

Dating Hamlet by Lisa Fiedler recounts the Shakespeare play from Ophelia’s point of view. It is available as a playaway and should be pretty popular. It is a fun imaginative retelling of the Hamlet story.

Midnighters: Touching Darkness by Scott Westerfeld continues the special group’s exploration of “blue time.”
Good story. We meet other “darklings” as well as “halflings” and historical Bixby. More is learned about darkling lore in this second installment.

Tuesday, December 11

2007-12-10T09:45:00.001-08:00

Week of December 9 , 2007

2007-12-09T18:01:00.000-08:00

In addition to books or compact disks the library offers mp3 format and electronic resources downloads.

An mp3 that I just transferred to my ipod for listening while cleaning, putting up the Christmas tree, and weight lifting
is Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, A Year of Food Life by Barbara Kingsolver. It’s a very informative, interesting, chatty sort of story about a family that leaves Tucson, AZ to live off the land on an Appalachian farm.

Midnighters: The Secret Hour by Scott Westerfeld is the first of a trilogy about an hour of time each day that only special people know exists.
Friends, Rex, Desdemona and Melissa are part of this world. They are misfits at their high school in Bixby OK. Jessica Day is a new student from Chicago. She too has the gift. Why do the darklings want her killed? Even Jessica doesn’t know.
This was an exciting story from the start - I wanted to complete it in one sitting - a real page turner.

Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson

A regular somewhat impulsive guy's social status is downgraded to that of a criminal because of a dumb act. As Tyler Miller's life spirals downward he becomes aware of who he is and what he wants to become. This revelation changes how he perceives himself and those around him.

Week of December 2nd, 2007

2007-12-02T16:40:00.000-08:00

The Other Half of Me by Emily Franklin is about “being a part of a team.”

17 year-old Jenny always considered herself an outsider to her sports-minded family. Her three other siblings have the same biological parents while Jenny’s biological father is only known as Donor #142. Jenny’s world changes through two major events in her life: a new boyfriend and a half sister’s surprise visit.

The Astonishing Adventures of Fanboy and Goth Girl is a fun read focusing on the world of comics and self publishing.

Jenn's Picks!

2007-11-26T19:27:00.000-08:00

The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman -- If you haven't read this one yet, be sure to check it out before the movie comes out the first week in December. Don't be fooled by the fact that the main characters are kind of young, or that the animals talk. This is a complicated world, and a dark story overall. The other two books in the trilogy are The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass.
Peeps by Scott Westerfeld -- Another delightfully weird Scott Westerfeld novel. Vampirism as a parasitic disease, great SW characters, and wacky, witty dialog. Sure, I'll read the next one. These are fun.
Zigzag by Ellen Wittlinger -- I had picked this one up when it caught my eye on the teen shelves. A book about a road trip! What's not to love? I read this pretty much in one sitting. At first I thought it would be a slog, since the main character was such a wimp - But she straightened right up, 60 or so pages into the story. I liked the way this one ended. A good read.

Music and More -Tuesday, December 11, 3-5pm

2007-11-25T21:08:00.000-08:00

Hear what he sounds like at www.benjaminwinter.com

Week of November 25, 2007

2007-11-25T20:50:00.000-08:00

The Very Ordered Existence of Merilee Marvelous by Susan Crowley tells the story of a teenager with Asperger’s syndrome. She befriends a boy who’s a product of fetal alcohol syndrome – The dynamics of their relationship is the focus of this story.

Elsewhere, by Gabrielle Zevin is about the afterlife of teenager Liz Hall. It's basically a story of love, separation and letting go.
I listened to the audio book.

Forest of the Pygmies by Isabel Allende is the third book featuring Alexander Cold and Nadia Santos, teenage adventurers. Allende combines fact, folklore, magic and fantasy for a spirited romp in Central Africa.

The library currently has only the audio book.

Week of November 18, 2007

2007-11-18T12:16:00.000-08:00

What if you could start fresh - having forgotten temporarily the past?
Naomi doesn't remember friend or enemy.
That's the premise of this story, Memoirs of a teenage amnesiac by Gabrielle Zavin

Another story about seeing things differently because of a situation is
Tending to grace by Kimberly Newton Fusco.
Cornelia, embarrassed by her voice, discovers that others have their own unique hangups.
With this knowledge she begins forays into communicating with others.

After School Library Program

2007-11-16T15:19:00.000-08:00

An upcoming event at the library featuring world traveled acoustic guitarist,
Benjamin Winter - www.benjaminwinter.com
He'll be performing in the Teen Section of the Los Gatos Public library for your entertainment
on Tuesday, December 11th from 3-5pm. He will also be featured November 21st on KFOG'S morning show (104.5 FM).

Week of November 11, 2007

2007-11-11T09:13:00.000-08:00

Listened with rapt attention to Bloody Jack: being an account of the curious adventures of Mary “Jacky” Faber, ship’s boy by L.A. Meyer. This sea adventure is about a girl posing as a boy to escape a life of begging in nineteenth century London.

We currently have the first three books:

Bloody Jack: being an account of the curious adventures of Mary “Jacky” Faber, ship’s boy

Curse of the Blue Tattoo: being an account of the misadventures of Jacky Faber, midshipman and fine lady

Under the Jolly Roger: being an account of the further nautical adventures of Jacky Faber

Pirates!: the true and remarkable adventures of Minerva Sharpe and Nancy Kington, female pirates by Celia Rees

Sound recording

This is a sea adventure on the slave trade and piracy. It takes place about a hundred years before the Bloody Jack series. Instead of a poor street urchin improving her lot, Nancy is from a wealthy Bristol family, the setting is Jamaica.

Another book I’ve been enjoying is Memoirs of a teenage amnesiac by Gabrielle Zevin – Falling down some steps, Naomi saves an expensive camera but hits her head, awakening to discover that she has no recollection of classmates, friends or enemies.

Week of November 4, 2007

2007-11-04T09:27:00.000-08:00

Just finished listening to The Day My Mother Left by James Prosek. This thought-provoking story centered on life changing situations and
how different family members met the challenges.

New titles we have received include:

Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith in audio cd/mp3 format;

Matisse stories by A.S. Byatt in audio format – Three stories influenced by artist’s paintings

The Sweet Terrible Glorious Year I Truly Lost It by Lisa Shanahan - Shifting emotions; a wedding, a play, and a boy.

Evolution, Me, & Other Freaks of Nature by Robin Brande – Student stands up for teacher with opposing viewpoint on evolution

Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer - Family struggles to survive aftermath of meteor impacting moon

The Very Ordered Existence of Merilee Marvelous by Suzanne Carlisle Crowley - Teenager copes with Asperger’s Syndrome

October 30 - Book Review by Will

2007-10-30T11:27:00.000-07:00

"I felt nothing or maybe it's more accurate to say I felt the Absence of Everything"

Head Case by Sarah Aronson chronicles the life of an injured teenager, Frank Marder. Confined to a wheel chair after a spinal cord injury, Frank struggles to do every task that once required little effort. Without the aid of several nurses and his grieving parents, Frank’s paralysis would prevent him from accessing the most basic necessities, neither food nor water.
Drunk Driving cost Frank his movement but girlfriend as well. Having lost a friend in similar circumstances I was able to relate to what some of the characters must have felt during times of great loss. Statistics say alcohol kills upwards of 400,000 people yearly, with 30% of those deaths caused by drunken driving accidents. The statistics speak to how careful youth must be when taking such risks.
Aronson connects well to her audience by writing about a relevant subject. The risks of drunk driving should be reinforced within this particular age group. She captures the audience with Frank’s story of hardship and writes with ease. Good Read.

Week of October 28, 2007

2007-10-28T15:43:00.000-07:00

The Awakening by Kate Chopin captures the feelings and social awareness of Edna Pontellier, a 19th Century woman . This short novel can be appreciated on many levels . Not only do we have this classic work in print and audio, but also through electronic download.
Raiders Night by Robert Lipsyte tells the story of a high school football player torn between team loyalties and doing what is right.
ttfn and ttyl by lauren myracle are about Zoe, Maddy and Angela's lives as told through their instant messages. These novels are easy to get into and fun to follow.

Jenn's Picks -- Spooky Halloweeny themed

Neverwhere by Neil Gaimen -- Set in a creepy but intriguing world beneath the city of London, this is a story about a guy who's life changes speedily and irrevocably when he stops to help a wounded girl on the street. The author has a very clean style and a fantastic imagination.

Blood and chocolate by Annette Curtis Klause. The story of Vivian Gandillion, who is a 16 year old werewolf, who falls in love with a human, or a "meat boy." A good story about someone stuck between two very different worlds, and a great interpretation of life in a pack of werewolves. We have the movie as well, it's got the same title, and some of the same characters, and enjoyed watching it. If you're annoyed by movies that diverge from the original book, read it or watch it, but don't do both.

WEEK OF OCTOBER 21, 2007

2007-10-21T09:52:00.000-07:00

Rash by Pete Hautman is about a future time in the United Safe States of America (one nation under the law).
About a quarter of the Nation’s population is incarcerated in work farms for crimes including anger and road rage.
The take on a future society determined to insure a safe environment free from even pastimes like football makes for a good read.
I enjoyed listening to our audio copy.

If you want to get a real feeling about what it was like to be a pirate; ship's captain; or a slave, read The Slave Ship by Marcus Rediker.
The author’s focus (1700-1808) includes accounts of many involved in the slave trade. I think it would be a fine resource for any paper
on the subject.

This week, I’ll be listening to The Awakening by Kate Chopin (1899) which explores treatment of women as property and not human beings.
The main character, Edna, undergoes an inner transformation which is at odds to her role as ‘model wife.’

Week of October 14, 2007

2007-10-14T14:34:00.000-07:00

I’ll be listening to Rash by Pete Hautman this week. It’s about a future society that would rather be “safe than free.”

Scott Westerfeld's latest book, Extras, stars 15 year-old Aya Fuse.
Her initial concern is a popularity ranking of 451,369. Through daring feats involving special circumstances Aya discovers her true self and what’s really important to succeed.

Want to know the ins and outs of the slave trade through the eyes of one family? Try Copper Sun by Sharon Draper.

Here are a few of the latest books received:

Gym Candy by Carl Deuker

(Freshman football and steroids)

Frannie in Pieces by Delia Ephron

(Jigsaw puzzle helps Frannie come to terms with father’s death)

No Place Safe by Kim Reid

( T921 A serial murderer began hunting black children in 1979 Atlanta.
Kim Reid's mother was a lead detective on the case)

It’s Superman by Tom De Haven

(Early feats of daring-do by the man of steel)

Freaks by Annette Curtis Klause

(17 year-old Abel, a freak show “normie” is haunted by mysterious wraith)

In Search of Mockingbird by Loretta Ellsworth

(16 year-old goes by bus to visit reclusive Southern author)

Week of October 7, 2007

2007-10-07T07:10:00.000-07:00

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson is a story about a high school girl who's been
raped and tells no one. It's about how her classmates see her.
It's about consequences when she is able to tell what happened.
I listened to the audio version

We just received Extras by Scott Westerfeld. It's a sequel to the Uglies trilogy. I'm looking forward to reading it right after I finish listening to So Yesterday by the same author.

Scott Westerfeld is appearing for a talk and book signing at
Hicklebee's in Willow Glen http://www.hicklebees.com/

He'll be there Wednesday October 10, at 3PM.

Jenn's Picks for the week

2007-09-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

Here are picks from avid reader Jenn that you too might enjoy:

An Abundance of Katherines, by John Green
A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb
London Calling by Edward Bloor
Trickster's Choice , we also have the audio copy of

Trickster's Choice by Tamora Pierce

and the sequel

Trickster's Queen by Tamora Pierce

Two other titles on Jenn's list were Light Years by Tammar Stein and Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohen which the library does not have as yet but will soon.

2007-09-29T13:29:00.000-07:00

Read an interesting book, Right Behind You by Gail Giles. It is about a child killer turned teen coming to grips with his 'hungry ghosts.'

Teen Programs at the Library

2007-09-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

What kind of programs would you like to be a part of at the Library?

Different suggestions have included:

Business Startups
DDR
Guitar Hero
Youtube contest

Paul's Picks for the week

2007-09-25T10:51:00.000-07:00

Titles from this past week that I recommend:

Does my head look big in this? by Randa Abdel-Fattah

Leap of Faith by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

An abundance of Katherines by John Green

I listened to and thoroughly enjoyed a playaway entitled,

After the Wreck, I Picked Myself Up, Spread My Wings, and Flew Away by Joyce Carol Oates

Several other new titles of interest:

Eclipse by Stephenie Meyers (Read the first two, Twilight and New Moon)

Some of Tim's Stories by S.E.Hinton (Remember her Outsiders and Rumble Fish)

Under the wolf, under the dog / Adam Rapp

What I believe : a novel / Norma Fox Mazer

What my girlfriend doesn't know / Sonya Sones (Follow up to What my mother doesn't know)

Blue lipstick : Concrete poems by John Grandits

Books on CD's and Playaways

2007-09-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

Recorded books have been popular at the Los Gatos Library. In addition to current titles, Los Gatos High School reading list 2007 was consulted in
development of this collection.

Here are several of the latest titles received:

Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde

Harmless by Dana Reinhardt

Separate Peace by John Knowles

Athletic Shorts by Chris Crutcher

Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink

Rash by Pete Hautman

We’re starting a collection in the Teen area called Play-a-ways.
These self contained digital recordings need only one AAA battery and set of ear phones.
They are very compact – Others will think you’re listening to music when actually, “It’s a book!”

Play-a-ways are available in the Children’s area of the library too.

Here are several of the Teen titles available in the Teen section:

Angus, thongs and full-frontal snogging: confessions of Georgia Nicolson by Louise Rennison

Chinese (Cantonese)

Uglies by Scott Westerfield

Pretties (part 2 of the Uglies trilogy) by Scott Westerfield

Specials (part 3 of the Uglies trilogy) by Scott Westerfield

After the Wreck I Picked Myself Up, Spread my Wings, and Flew Away by Joyce Carol Oates

Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

TEEN REVIEWS

2007-09-21T15:22:00.000-07:00

Got a favorite book you want to share? Send us an email. All you have to do is include:

title, author,
brief summary,
what you thought of the book,
your first name and grade!

Megan Meade's guide to the McGowan boys : a novel
by Kate Brian
I think that this was my favorite of all the books I read for this (Summer 2007). This is because it was funny, interesting and fresh. I really enjoyed the book, it kept my attention and I hope she writes another like it.
Reviewed by: Katie 8th grade

Pardon My French by Cathy Hapka
I loved this book because it really took you to France and all the amazing places there. The characters and their stories were fun to read about! This book got me hooked on all the S.A.S.S. books. Very good!
Reviewed by Katie H. 9th grade

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
This is an enlightening story of a young Japanese girl in times of war. I was so affected by the hardships of Saguri and fascinated by geishes (who) are like prostitutes. Geishas do not exist anymore. I feel like I learned more about a lost people of Japan.
Reviewed by Melissa 8th grade

Poison Ivy by Amy Goldman Koss

...it had a good, interesting plot. Also, it was unique because the story was
told in 1st person from several different characters, so you could really tell
what they were thinking. Also, the story didn't really have a happy ending,
but it was a little refreshing because so many stories have happy endings, but life
doesn't always turn out that way.
Reviewed by Ellie 8th grade

Eats shoots & leaves by Lynne Truss
...is an excellent grammar book, filed with humorous examples
of grammatical slip-ups, witty remarks,and simple rules to remember for punctuation.
Still educational,yet entertaining and clever. Lynee Truss creates a convergence of the
actual fun of learning while pruning the ridiculous nuances and repetitiveness that
most grammar books have. In essence, this book teaches grammar without being boring, and is, quite wonderfully enough, based on a joke! An additional plus are the stickers.
Reviewed by David 11th grade

Sound of Munich by Suzanne Nelson
I liked this book a lot because it had a mystery in it and was funny at the same time.
I was hooked on this book till the end!
This book takes place in Munich, which made it interesting to read.
Reviewed by Rachel 8th grade