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Great Books 2007

GREAT PICTURE BOOKS 2007
ANNOTATED LIST

GREAT PICTURE BOOKS 2007
ANNOTATED LIST
Picture Books - Printable Version [PDF]

AA - African American Interest
AS - Asian Interest
DO - Diversity (Other issues besides ethnicity)
GN - Graphic Novel
HISP - Hispanic
MC - Multicultural-several or many ethnic groups
NF - Nonfiction
* - Committee Favorites
Printable version of Great Picture Books Annotated List

The annotations below are collected from the following professional journals: Booklist, Horn Book, Kirkus, Publisher’s Weekly, and School Library Journal.

Arnosky, Jim - Babies in the Bayou
Baby ducks, alligators and other infant and parent inhabitants of the bayou are brought to life in this gentle but accurate glimpse from famed naturalist/writer/illustrator, Jim Arnosky. Readers young and old will find the pictures and descriptions just the ticket to learning about life in the southern marshlands. Ages 3-8

Aston, Dianna Hutts Long, Sylvia (ill.) - A Seed Is Sleepy
Exquisite, detailed watercolors depict the fascinating and diverse world of seeds. The sparse text reveals intriguing facts about seeds and their design and attributes. Pages filled with seeds, both common and exotic, will encourage children to wonder about the plant world’s mysterious and gorgeous spectrum of possibilities. Ages 4-10 B

Ayres, Katherine Westcott, Nadine Bernard (ill.) - Up, Down, and Around
Read this rhyming story from front to back to learn about vegetables that grow up, down, or around. Bright cheerful illustrations enhance an informative gardening tale. Ages 3-7

Baker, Keith - Hickory Dickory Dock
This familiar rhyme becomes a rollicking, rhythmic tale as the grandfather clock is visited each hour by a new animal. The ever-present little mouse adds a large dose of humor with his around-the-clock shenanigans. This fun read-aloud offers simple illustrations with plenty of preschool child appeal and can serve as a counting or time-telling book for older children. Ages 3-7

Barasch, Lynne - Hiromi’s Hands
The Japanese-American daughter of a sushi chef wants to follow in her father's footsteps; through perseverance Hiromi changes the pattern of an all-male profession. A true story with an empowering message. Ages 7-11 AS

Bauer, Marion Dane Butler, John (ill.) - A Mama for Owen
This book is based on a true story of a young African hippopotamus that is separated from his mother in a 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and bonds with a giant tortoise named Mzee. The illustrations give the book soft colors that convey a wonderful, touching story. Ages 4-8

Breen, Steve. - Stick
Stick is an independent young frog who embarks on an unexpected romp through bayou country. This exciting adventure combines subtle humor with a cultural tour of the region. Children will be reassured when Stick is reunited with his mama as they trace his journey through the end papers. Ages 3-7

Broach, Elise Small, David (ill.) - When Dinosaurs Came with Everything
Going with mom on errands can be so boring and doesn’t make a boy happy at all. But today is a special day; every store is giving a full-size living dinosaur with each and every purchase. Mom is stressed out but her son is ecstatic in this humorous story with a resourceful ending. Ages 4-8

Bunting, Eve Mack, Jeff (ill.) - Hurry, Hurry!
A raucous rooster interrupts the calm of the barnyard as he gathers all the farm animals in anticipation of the arrival of the farm’s newest member. This simple yet excitement-filled tale is punctuated with cheerful, expressive illustrations and is sure to be a story time favorite. Ages 3-6

Burleigh, Robert Wimmer, Mike (ill.) - Stealing Home
A poem about Jackie Robinson stealing home in a world series game is accompanied by snippets of biographical information on facsimiles of old baseball cards. Gorgeous oil paintings give us close-ups of the players and the crowd on that momentous day. Ages 6-10 AA

Casanova, Mary Hoyt, Ard (ill.) - Some Dog!
After a new puppy is brought into the home, George, an old beloved family pet, finds his fear of losing his place in his owners’ hearts, was all for naught. The whimsical watercolor illustrations help to make this sweet story one for the ages. Ages 4-8 *

Chaconas, Dori. Meade, Holly (ill.) - Virginnie’s Hat
In the Louisiana Bayou, Virginnie walks along wearing her wide-brimmed hat. When her hat is blown into a tree, Virginnie tries to knock it down and is so intent that she doesn’t notice the swamp creatures behind her, depicted in lively watercolor and cut paper illustrations. Ages 5-7

Cooper, Ilene Swiatowska, Gabi (ill.) - The Golden Rule
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Everyone knows a version of the Golden Rule. What does it mean? A boy and his grandfather strive to figure out the answer. Rich, warm paintings reinforce the message this book brings to its readers. Ages 5-10

Cronin, Doreen Bliss, Harry (ill.) - Diary of a Fly
Take an inside look at the day-to-day happenings of a young fly, including her mastering flight school, learning what it would take to be a superhero, and trying to get along with her 327 brothers and sisters. This story is funny from the start and the colorful and detailed illustrations make it even better. Ages 7-10

Cruise, Robin Chodos-Irvine, Margaret (ill.) - Only You
Children’s uniqueness is celebrated by a diverse grouping of parents and caregivers, making each child feel that they are “the one and only.” Rich, vibrant illustrations, coupled with the spare text, work together to create a book that will surely be read over and over again. Ages 2-5

Ditchfield, Christin Beardshaw, Rosalind (ill.) - Cowlick
A humorous explanation of how children can go to bed at night with neat hair and then wake up in the morning with crazy hairdos. A funny book that makes a great read-aloud. Ages 3-6

Ehlert, Lois - Wag a Tail
What do dogs do best? Obey, of course! In this rambunctious tale, dogs do more than just wag their tales. Collages using bright buttons, scraps of fabric and handmade paper stand out in these lively illustrations. Ages 3-7

Emmett, Jonathan Howarth, Daniel (ill.) - I Love You Always and Forever
Many things change as Littletail the mouse grows, but no matter what happens in their lives, Longtail and Littletail will always share a special bond. Two-page colorful illustrations filled with scenes from the landscape which provides a home for these delightful mice. Ages 3-6

Falwell, Cathryn Shape Capers
Circles, squares, rectangles and triangles, all bright with color and creativity, are presented beautifully in this imaginative concept book. With multicultural and multi-colorful charm, this is a book for sheer fun or to begin the study of shapes. Ages 2-7. MC

Fleming, Candace Karas, G. Brian (ill.) - Tippy-Tippy-Tippy-Hide!
Precocious bunnies are driving Mr. McGreeley mad! All he wants to do is settle in for the winter after a summer filled with attempts to keep the bunnies out of his garden. Acrylic illustrations with pencil outlining capture the liveliness of these mischievous bunnies. Ages 3-8

Fleming, Denise - Beetle Bop
“Striped beetles, spotted beetles, all-over-dotted beetles.” All types of beetles bop across the pages to the rhythmic beat of the rhyme. Children will take pleasure in seeing the vibrant paper collage artwork and may just unearth a new favorite creepy-crawly. Ages 3-7

Floca, Brian - Lightship
Minimal text and effortless watercolor and ink illustrations tell the story of a lightship, a small boat anchored where lighthouses could not be built. Floca depicts the crew of the steadfast lightship, and their cat, as they guide ships out of the path of danger and have an alarmingly close call. Readers will stay riveted. Ages 4-7

Franco, Betsy Jenkins, Steve (ill.) - Bird Songs
This countdown book opens at daybreak with ten “tats” from a woodpecker, and closes at nightfall, with the mockingbird singing all ten songs she has heard throughout the day. Stunning, realistic collages and eye-catching text bring the birds and their songs to life. This is an excellent first nature book and includes a “feathery facts” description of each bird in the appendix. Ages 4-8

Friend, Catherine Manders, John (ill.) - The Perfect Nest
A cat advertises the perfect nest in order to make a perfect omelet but too many farm birds move in. The large pictures shown from different perspectives expand the humor of the story right up to the delightful ending. Ages 3-6 *

Garland, Michael - King Puck
A lonely farmer and his remarkable goat, Finny, enter a contest at the King Puck Festival. Can Finny wow the crowd with his newly acquired talent? Children will marvel at these lively, colorful pictures, and they will be excited to discover the fairies hidden everywhere! Ages 5-8

Gran, Julia - Big Bug Surprise
Bug-lover Prunella saves the class when a swarm of bees invades the schoolroom during show-and-tell. Cartoon-like characters and lots of colorful action pages keep your interest and the heroine is quite the little bug herself. Ages 4-9

Grifalconi, Ann Pinkney, Jerry (ill.) - Ain’t Nobody a Stranger to Me
On a walk to his apple orchard with his granddaughter, a former slave shares the story of his escape to freedom with his wife and baby daughter on the Underground Railroad. When Grandpa saved enough money to buy his own land, he planted apple seeds of memory in honor of those who had helped them on the rough journey. The evocative watercolors skillfully depict the dark days of slavery and the glorious orchard born of freedom. Ages 5-9. AA

Gutman, Dan Fancher, Lou and Johnson, Steve (ill.) - Casey Back at Bat
The mighty Casey is given a second chance to bring the town of Mudville to victory in this entertaining parody of Ernest Lawrence Thayer’s 1888 poem “Casey at the Bat.” This time Casey hits the ball clear out of the park, over the ocean, past the tower of Pisa, through Egypt and India, even into outer space! Will this astronomical hit finally lead to Casey’s ultimate triumph? The illustrations are as out of this world as this spectacular story; audiences will be left in stitches! Ages 4-10

Harrington, Janice N. Jackson, Shelley (ill.) - The Chicken-Chasing Queen of Lamar County
A delightful tale that begs to be read aloud tells of a young southern girl who has fun chasing her favorite chicken until she learns a secret. Enjoy mixed media illustrations accompanied by a poetic turn of phrase. Ages 4-8 *

Henkes, Kevin - A Good Day
Little yellow bird, little white dog, little orange fox and little brown squirrel all start the day off on the wrong foot. But as events of the day unfold, things begin to look up. Gentle text and bold watercolors make this story of overcoming life's little disappointments enjoyable for even the youngest audience. Ages 2-5

Horowitz, Dave - Five Little Gefiltes
This book is a “kosher” retelling of Five Little Ducks and Oy Vey, so original! A clever way to be introduced to some Yiddish words combined with funny illustrations in bright unusual color combinations. Ages 4-8 DO

Jenkins, Steve Living Color
Flashy, fashionable creatures are beautifully and accurately detailed in this extensive and rich exploration of how animals use their colors to survive. An exquisite book of illustrations with just the right amount of facts and description, readers will marvel at every page. Ages 6-14

Johnson, Angela Long, Loren (ill.) - Wind Flyers
With tremendous pride and a sense of pioneer spirit, a young boy tells the story of his grandfather’s career as a Tuskegee Airman. The gorgeous acrylic paintings that accompany the tale are filled with vibrant colors and meticulous details. This inspiring book brings to light a little known segment of our nation’s history and spotlights some unique heroes for today’s youth. Ages 6-9 AA

Keller, Holly - Help: A Story of Friendship
Because of the silly gossip he heard from Skunk (who heard it from fox) that snakes are dangerous, Mouse has decided to hide from his trusty friend Snake. When Mouse finds himself in trouble and his other friends are rendered helpless, there is only one friend he can count on. Keller's beautifully textured printed collages add an irresistible appeal to this endearing tale of true friendship. Ages 3-8

Kirk, Daniel - Library Mouse
A mouse who lives in a library disappears by day and spends his evening hours writing and illustrating his own books, much to the delight of the librarian and the children who now want to meet the “author.” A creative, humorous catalyst to help kids begin their own writing careers. Ages 7-11

Kuskin, Karla Iwai, Melissa (ill.)- Green as a Bean
This playful book in verse poses questions to the reader about what they would be if they were a color or sound or shape. Clever responses are suggested but it is ultimately the reader's own limitless creativity that directs the story. The rhyming text and lush whimsical illustrations are sure to inspire your imagination. Ages 3-8

Lehman, Barbara - Rainstorm
A wordless story of rainy-day adventure, fun and the making of new friends. With a bit of mystery and clever illustrations, this is a book readers will choose often – especially on rainy days. Ages 4-8

Levine, Ellen Nelson, Kadir (ill.) - Henry’s Freedom Box
Henry Brown, an escaped slave, was so desperate for a better life that he folded himself into a cramped wooden crate and “mailed himself to freedom.” Levine beautifully crafts this moving and powerful story around incredible but true events. Nelson’s always evocative images add profound visual interest to an altogether compelling story. Ages 8-11. AA

Lindbergh, Reeve Brown, Kathryn (ill.) - My Little Grandmother Often Forgets
This rhyming story portrays a child’s perspective and understanding about how his grandmother is forgetting things. Soft illustrations of watercolor and ink mesh well with the text and give the story about memory disorders a reassuring feel. Ages 4-8 DO

Lloyd-Jones, Sally Heap, Sue (ill.) - How to be a Baby: By Me, the Big Sister
Lloyd-Jones delivers a sweet but snarky guide to the behavior of babies as explained by the wise older sister. This original title is overflowing with spunk and sass as a precocious big sister details all the things that she can do, but her brother can’t. The smart-alecky story ends on a tender note as it deftly acknowledges that babies and kids are different and can do different things. For older siblings, this title may be the ideal remedy for the new-baby blues. Ages 5-8

Long, Melinda Shannon, David (ill.) - Pirates Don’t Change Diapers
Jeremy Jacob is watching his sister Bonney Anne while she sleeps when Braid Beard and his noisy pirates come to get the treasure buried in the backyard. His sister is now very awake and very noisy. The pirates must play babysitter to get her quiet before they get the treasure in this humorous and enjoyable story. Ages 4-8

MacLennan, Cathy - Chicky Chicky Chook Chook
This busy bee of a tale is buzzing with rhyme…Crash! Bang! Wallop! What on earth was that?!? Jiggle about to the rhythm with a “chicky chicky chook chook!” MacLennan uses bright splashes of paint on brown butcher paper in this rhythmic tale. Ages 3-7

Morales, Yuyi - Little Night
This is the dreamy and delightful story of Mother Sky guiding her mischievous Little Night to bed with such fanciful rituals as a star filled bath and a white cloud dress. Gorgeous jewel-toned illustrations ooze with warmth and enchantment, and children will become captivated by the playful story of a familiar bedtime routine. Ages 3-6

Mortensen, Denise Dowling Iwai, Melissa (ill.) - Wake Up Engines
A young boy’s day begins as play and real-life engines roar to life in this book of short rhyme and clever illustrations. Plenty of action words zoom and boom off the pages as school buses, helicopters and street sweepers come alive. Ages 4-8

Newgarden, Mark and Cash, Megan - Montague Bow-Wow Bugs a Bug
A big tale with a little tail, this picture book is way beyond words – it’s a wordless picture book as funny for adults as it is interesting for kids. You’ll follow Bow-Wow again and again as he chases a tiny bug and eventually is chased himself. Ages 5-9

O’Connor, Jane James, Ann (ill.) - Ready, Set, Skip
One little girl is delightfully proud of the many things that she can do; she leaps, whistles, somersaults, and twirls, but she can’t skip. She is surprised when she finally masters the elusive skill of skipping with her mother’s help. James’ buoyant illustrations lend a light-hearted feel to O’Connor’s effortless, rhyming story. Ages 3-6

Onishi, Satoru - Who's Hiding?
Who's hiding? Who's crying? Who's backwards? Bright animal figures line the pages, changing slightly with each new question. This artful, memory-building picture book will keep children engaged in a colorful game of hide-and-seek. Ages 3-5

Palatini, Margie Johnson, Steve and Fancher, Lou (ill.) - The Cheese
All the characters in the Dell decide that it is indeed silly for the cheese to stand alone and that it would be much better hosting an excellent picnic. Mixed media illustrations cleverly work a few words and music from the song into the funny, comic style pictures and make for a laugh-out-loud read. Hi-ho the dairy-o! Ages 4-8

Perkins, Lynne Rae - Pictures from Our Vacation
A young girl is given a camera before the trip to the family farm so she can record her experiences along the way. This story is told through the eyes of a young girl who portrays her pictures and thoughts in a scrapbook. The illustrations, done in watercolor and ink, are very colorful and entertaining throughout the book. Ages 7-10

Polacco, Patricia - Ginger and Petunia
Ginger is a socialite and pianist. Petunia is her pet pig. When Ginger is called away for a few days, Petunia takes on Ginger’s identity…and no one notices! Polacco’s illustrations convey Petunia’s emotions and challenges as she takes on this new and hilarious role. Ages 5-9

Raczka, Bob Stead, Judy (ill.) - Spring Things
As spring melts winter away, the sights and sounds of sowing and mowing, babies hatching, throwing and catching, blading and lemonading are in the air. A cheerful rhyming story with beautiful illustrations done in lots of color. Ages 3-6

Ritchie, Alison Edgson, Alison (ill.) - Me and My Dad
A bear cub and his dad share a day of exploration and adventure. This rhyming text and beautiful illustration combine to demonstrate the love and emotion the cub and his dad show to one another. Ages 3-7

Rocco, John - Wolf! Wolf!
A twist on a familiar Aesop fable is coupled with intricate, lush illustrations as a lonely wolf finds more than he bargained for. Beautiful brushstrokes, and interesting setting and exquisite details set the tone for this awe-inspiring book. Ages 5-8

Ruddell, Deborah Rankin, Joan (ill.) - Today at the Bluebird Café: A Branchful of Birds
A collection of 22 poems with remarkably lyrical text and vivid illustrations open up a world of birds, from the backyard to the exotic. As the book says in one line “It’s all-you-can-eat at the Bluebird Café.” Ages 4-10

Ruurs, Margriet Broda, Ron (ill.) In My Backyard
Beautiful, colorful paper sculptures introduce children to the magical world in their backyard. Children will want to discover animals such as snails, birds, tadpoles and mice and learn more about their habitats. Ages 5-8

Schaefer, Carole Lexa Morgan, Pierr (ill.) - Dragon Dancing
Cut, paste, create. Swirl, soar, imagine! Join this troupe of feisty kindergartners as they bring their very own dragon to life in celebration of a friend’s birthday. Dynamic artwork invites you to follow them on faraway adventures and return just in time for the party. Ages 3-8 AS

Schoenherr, Ian - Pip & Squeak
Two adventurous mice frolic across a snowy backyard to deliver a birthday gift to their friend. Children will enjoy identifying common objects portrayed in unusual ways, like the mice’s mailbox home. The muted winter palette and mouse-eye view set the stage for a charming adventure. Ages 2-5

Sherry, Kevin - I’m the Biggest Thing in the Ocean
A lovable giant squid boasts to everyone about his tremendous size until being swallowed by a whale puts his stature into perspective. The oceanic palette, shifting perspective and clever size and placement of the text create a distinctive setting. Children will squeal with laughter and relief as the squid finds his new place in the pecking order of the sea. Ages 3-7 *

Sheth, Kashmira Jaeggi, Yoshiko (ill.) - My Dadima Wears a Sari
An Indian grandmother teaches her two young American granddaughters the many ways her sari can be used and never once wishes that she could wear pants instead. A warm, delightful story about families and important traditions. Ages 4-8 DO

Sidman, Joyce Zagarenski, Pamela (ill.) - This is Just to Say: Poems of Apology and Forgiveness
This is an evocative collection of poems written in the voices of imaginary sixth graders, but inspired by an actual class project. The quirky, child-like drawings partner perfectly with the powerful verse in this honest treatment of universal themes. Ages 9-12

Stauffacher, Sue Couch, Greg (ill.) Nothing But Trouble: The Story of Althea Gibson
“Althea Gibson was the tallest, wildest tomboy in the history of Harlem” is how this picture book biography begins. Gibson transforms herself, with some help and insight, to become the first African-American tennis player, male or female, to win at Wimbledon. The unique use of bright colors and jumbled lines in the illustrations adds to the reader’s sense of Althea Gibson’s vibrant energy and spirit. Ages 6-9 AA *

Stein, David - Ezra Leaves
A young bear going through his first change of seasons sees his friends the leaves turn from green to fall colors. We watch as the bear tries to put them back on the tree and then makes his winter den. Stein utilizes white space exceptionally well in these lovely simple illustrations. Ages 2-6

Tankard, Jeremy - Grumpy Bird
Bird wakes up grumpy. He's too grumpy even to fly. As he takes a walk through the woods, he encounters a number of other animals who one-by-one join him on his journey and who eventually turn his cynical mind-set into a cheerful one. The combination of ink and digital media provide a vibrant background to this amusing story. Ages 3-5

Teckentrup, Britta - Big Smelly Bear
Big Smelly Bear goes bathless until new friend Fluffy insists he clean up his act. She’s quite an influence as you’ll soon discover. It’s a bath-time and friendship book, beautifully illustrated and charmingly shared. Ages 2-5

Timmers, Leo - Who is Driving?
Who is driving the convertible? The jeep? The tractor? Children will love shouting out their guess as to which animal is driving what, not to mention mimicking the sound of each vehicle. Vividly drawn characters, full of humor and detail, pop off the pages of this onomatopoeic winner of a book. Ages 3-6

Urbanovic, Jackie - Duck at the Door
Max the duck ruffles some feathers when he moves in with Irene and her houseful of pets instead of migrating south for the winter. Hilarious, expressive illustrations speak volumes in this sweetly comedic tale of a remote-hogging, tofu-cooking duck. This is an excellent story time choice, with a wonderful surprise ending. Ages 4-8

Watt, Melanie - Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend
A precociously nutty but lovable squirrel is on a mission to find a non-biting perfect friend. Armed with an Action Plan, a Risk Test and lots of chutzpah, see what turns up for Scaredy. This hilarious over-the-top story teaches about finding friends. Ages 4-10

Willems, Mo - My Friend Is Sad // Today I Will Fly!
Elephant Gerald and nameless Pig are true pals in these few-word and very funny easy-reader stories about emotions and friendship. Lots of white space and simple details serve to make this a staple for laughter and early reader interest. Ages 4-9 *

Wong, Janet S. Roberts, David (ill.) - The Dumpster Diver
Exemplifying the adage “one person's trash is another person's treasure,” Steve spends each weekend picking out useful items from his neighborhood dumpsters, showing the diverse members of his “diving team” the potential in what other people throw away. Each page contains enough whimsy and adventure to appeal to kids of all ages. Ages 4-8

Yaccarino, Dan- Every Friday
In this heartwarming story, we join a father and son on their weekly walk to a local diner. Along the way, the pair sees friendly faces and many passersby while enjoying the changing scenery of a decidedly retro and nostalgic city. Yaccarino’s simple but sweet story and illustrations are sure to inspire many families to start their own meaningful tradition. Ages 3-7 *

Yee, Wong Herbert- Who Likes Rain?
A little girl explores her backyard on a rainy April day, delighting in the natural wonders of her world. The gentle rhyming text and sweet illustrations in this little book are perfect for sharing one-on-one with a special child. Readers of all ages will delight in following the picture clues to predict what she will discover next. Ages 2-6

Yolen, Jane Sweet, Melissa (ill.) - Baby Bear’s Big Dreams
Baby Bear cannot wait for the day when he can do all of the things that grown-ups do! Collage illustrations using mixed media draw in an audience familiar to the urge of wanting to grow up. Ages 3-7

Yolen, Jane and Stemple, Heidi E. Y. Dyer, Brooke (ill.) - Sleep, Black Bear, Sleep
Soft rhyme creates a lullaby for hibernating creatures under a soft blanket of snow, a cozy quilt, a leaf nest, a hammock or a warm bed. This is a soft and comfortable bedtime book that will soothe any child. Ages 4-7

Yoo, Taeeun - The Little Red Fish
An exquisite story in an equally exquisite binding, readers follow JeJe into the library where a little red fish leads the way to great adventure. Each page is a marvel in pen and ink sepia illustration along with the adventurous red fish. Great for early readers or one-on-one sharing. Ages 4-8

GREAT BOOKS FOR KIDS 2007
ANNOTATED LIST
Kids - Printable Version [PDF]

The annotations below are collected from the following professional journals: Booklist, Horn Book, Kirkus, Publisher’s Weekly, and School Library Journal.

Avi - Iron Thunder: The Battle Between the Monitor & the Merrimac: A Civil War Novel
Thirteen-year old Tom Carroll is about to be a part of the most exciting battle in US naval history. Joining “Ericsson’s Folly”, the innovative project that becomes the ironsided Monitor, Tom conquers questions of loyalty and espionage, ultimately helping to fight the Confederate Merrimac in Virginian waters. Ages 8-12

Avi - The Traitors’ Gate
In 19th century London, John Huffman’s life is about to change when his father is arrested and sent to debtor’s prison. To make matters worse, his father also might be trying to sell naval secrets to several spies. With wonderful, colorful characters, Avi weaves a tale in true Dickens’ style that will keep a reader engaged until the final solution. Ages 10-14

Babbitt, Natalie - Jack Plank Tells Tales
A former pirate in search of a new profession, Jack Plank looks for work by day; and, for eight consecutive nights, enthralls his fellow boarders at Mrs. Delfresno’s Boarding House, with tales of his pirating adventures that explain just why he can’t be a farmer, a baker, fortuneteller, fisherman, barber, goldsmith, actor, or musician. Perfect to read aloud. Age 7 and up

Barber, Tiki and Barber, Ronde - Kickoff
Transitioning from elementary school to junior high is difficult for anyone. It’s even harder if you are a twin and in a different class from your twin for the first time. This biography follows football players Tiki and Ronde Barber through this time and as they move from championship peewee football players to third string junior high bench warmers. Ages 8-12

Blume, Lesley M. M.- The Rising Star of Rusty Nail
Rusty Nail, Minnesota in 1953 is an average town with a cast of bizarre citizens, who must deal with the arrival of a mysterious Russian woman when rumors of "Commie!" threaten their way of life. This is a good historical fiction book for those intrigued with the McCarthy era, with a fast moving plot and interesting characters. Ages 8-12

Bradley, Kimberly Brubaker- The Lacemaker and the Princess
11 year old Isabelle is a lacemaker, and her family struggles to make ends meet on the streets of Paris. One day, by chance, she happens upon Marie-Antoinette and is asked to be the companion of her daughter, Princess Marie-Therese. The novel nicely balances both sides of the conflict that leads to the French revolution with memorable characters that will stay with you long after you close the book. Age 8-12

Burns, Loree Griffin - Tracking Trash: Flotsam, Jetsam and the Science of Ocean Motion
Is that a sneaker in the surf? Sleuths, scientists and water users of all ages will marvel at the work of Curt Ebbesmeyer and others who study how currents move the tons of debris in our world ocean. Convincing photographs, charts, graphs and websites insure that kids "going down 'e ocean" will see the shore with appreciation and all will see a responsibility. Ages 9 and up

Carman, Patrick Atherton: The House of Power
The World of Atherton has three levels: The Highlands, the sole source of water and book knowledge; Tabletop, the source of food and practical knowledge; and the Flatlands, the source of, well, almost no one knows. No level could exist without the other two, yet no one from one ever visits the others until the levels start to shift. Edgar, an orphaned 11-year-old, and his new friends find themselves in pivotal roles as they face the possibility of war and worse. 1st of a series. Ages 9 and up

Clements, Andrew - No Talking
The noisy fifth-grade boys of Laketon Elementary School challenge the equally loud fifth-grade girls to a “no talking” contest. Mahatma Gandhi’s example. One day trial. Double-dog dare. Only three words. Girls versus boys. Forty eight hours. Fifth grade “Unshushables”. Each word counts. Can they succeed? Will teachers understand? Will principal revolt? Who will win? What is learned? Read, find out. Ages 8-12

Coburn, Ann - Glint
Ellie and her brother Daniel spent many summer days creating a world of dragons and sorcery, and an impetuous heroine named Argent. Now Danny has disappeared and Ellie must attempt her own quest to save him, as Argent struggles with returning a dragon hatchling to her mother. The two stories are told in alternating chapters in this rich imaginative fantasy that will have readers hurriedly making their way to a satisfying climax. Ages 9-12

Curtis, Christopher - Paul Elijah of Buxton
Famous for being the first child born free in Buxton, Ontario, a settlement established for freed/escaped slaves to live in freedom, Elijah relates details of his life that offer a look at the horrors of slavery. Suddenly events lead him into danger as he undertakes a solo journey to nearby America to help a friend. Ages 9-12 AA

Draper, Sharon M. Fire - from the Rock
The year is 1957 and Sylvia Patterson is a strong student at a segregated school in Little Rock, Arkansas. Integration is in the air. Sylvia’s life and those of her friends and family are changed forever when she is chosen to be one of the black students to integrate all-white Central High School. Ages 10 and up. AA

Fleischman, Sid - The Entertainer and the Dybbuk
Avron, a dybbuk (spirit) of a young boy killed during the Holocaust, possesses the body of Freddie, a struggling ex-GI ventriloquist, in post WWII Europe. Avron agrees to make Freddie’s act a success in exchange for Freddie’s help in finding and securing revenge on the SS officer who killed him. Ages 10-14

George, Jessica - Day Dragon Slippers
After being sacrificed to the dragon by her scheming family, Creel befriends him and comes to possess a pair of magical slippers. These slippers allow the wearer to command and control all the dragons in the kingdom. When the slippers fall into the hands of the sinister Amalia, Creel must rescue the dragons and the land of Feraval from ultimate destruction. Ages 10-14

Gifford, Peggy - Moxy Maxwell Does Not Love Stuart Little
With summer coming to an end, about-to-be-fourth grader Moxy Maxwell does a hundred different things to avoid reading her assigned summer reading book. Will her Peach Orchard Plan keep her from being a daisy in the water ballet show? Moxy’s brother documents her procrastination with his photos. Ages 8-12

Gore, Al (adapted by Jane O’Connor) - An Inconvenient Truth: The Crisis of Global Warming
Adapted from the adult book, Gore presents kids with information related to global warming. With the evidence paired against vivid, powerful pictures, this book acts as a call to action for all children, urging them to make changes for the planet. Ages 8 -12.

Grogan, John- Marley: A Dog Like No Other
In this true story, the author describes his life with Marley, a yellow Labrador retriever, who chomps and chews, destroys and drools, and loves his way into the hearts of those in his human family. Marley attacks life as he does his dinner, with an enthusiastic appetite, devouring each morsel and moment with joy and gratitude. Despite his imperfect behavior, his loyalty and his love are undeniably perfect. Ages 9-12

Haig, Matt - Samuel Blink and the Forbidden Forest
Samuel and Martha move to Norway with Aunt Edna following the untimely death of their parents. They are inundated with rules begging to be broken; “Never, never go into the Shadow Forest!” Of course, they do. They encounter a variety of fantastic, imaginary creatures who are under the power of an evil magician, plotting their demise. Ages 9-13

Harper, Charise Mericle Just Grace
Being one of 4 Graces in her class, Grace is nicknamed Just Grace. She tries to cheer her injured neighbor by sending postcards from Crinkles the Cat. When Crinkles goes missing, Grace is the prime suspect. This is a first chapter book written in the form of a diary with snap shots and drawings in Graces voice. Ages 7-10

Hatkoff, Isabella - Owen & Mzee: The Language of Friendship
A baby hippo, orphaned in the December 2004 tsunami, is named Owen and taken to a sanctuary where he bonds with Mzee, a 130-year-old tortoise. This story, with many photographs, tells of their friendship especially how this unique pair communicate, play, eat, and live together. Ages 8–13

Hest, Amy - Remembering Mrs. Rossi
Annie’s mother passes away unexpectedly and eight-year-old Annie and her father are left to patch up their fractured lives and move on. A book created by her mother’s sixth grade class helps Annie and her father keep Mrs. Rossi’s memory alive. A poignant but never maudlin book. Ages 8-10

Hopkinson, Deborah - Sweet Land of Liberty
Oscar Chapman, Assistant Secretary of the Interior under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, takes on the task of finding a location for a performance. Chapman chooses the Lincoln Memorial for Marian Anderson’s performance where 75,000 people came to hear her. Hopkinson’s book provides historical information of a man who made a difference. Ages 4-8

Jonell, Lynne - Emmy and the Incredible Shrinking Rat
When Emmy discovers that she and her formerly loving parents are being drugged by their evil nanny Miss Barmy, who has access to rodent potions that can change people in terrifying ways, she and some new friends must try everything possible to return things to normal and save the day. Ages 9-12

Kadohata, Cynthia Cracker: The Best Dog in Vietnam
Cody must give up his beloved dog Cracker but feels better knowing that a soldier named Rick will be working with her as a bomb-sniffing dog in Vietnam. With chapters that shift between Cracker’s voice and Rick’s, the reader will feel the tremendous bond between man and dog. Ages 12 and up

Kennedy, Marlane Me and the Pumpkin Queen
Eleven-year-old Mildred is driven to grow the largest pumpkin for the famous pumpkin festival as a way of honoring her mother. What looks like neglect to some members of her family, Mildred views as determination; counting on this being the year she wins her coveted title. Ages 8-10

Kerley, Barbara - - Greetings from Planet Earth
In 1977, as twelve-year-old Theo struggles with a science project to answer the question “What is most important about Earth?”, questions emerge about why his father never returned from Vietnam and why Theo’s mother has been keeping secret his dad’s many war-time letters for so many years. Ages 9-12

Kinney, Jeff - Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Greg Heffley’s Journal
Greg records his sixth grade experiences in a middle school where he and his best friend, Rowley, undersized weaklings amid boys who need to shave twice daily, hope just to survive. When Rowley grows more popular, Greg must take drastic measures to save their friendship. Ages 10-15

Kirkpatrick, Katherine - Snow Baby: The Arctic Childhood of Admiral Robert E. Peary’s Daring Daughter
This is the fascinating story of the adventurous Marie Perry, daughter of Robert Perry, the discoverer of the North Pole. The book highlights Marie’s love of the North, her friendships with the Inuit people and the explorations of her famous father. The book is so intriguing that it leaves the reader wanting more. Ages 9-12

Korman, Gordon - Schooled
Imagine being in the midst of savvy students when you’ve never had a phone, watched television, or eaten pizza! Events force Cap (Capricorn) Anderson, raised and home schooled by his hippie grandmother, to live with a guidance counselor and attend the local middle school. Chaos and humor surround this bright, intelligent, naive teen as he navigates the labyrinth of public school politics. Ages 9-14

LaFevers, R. L. - Theodosia and the Serpents of Chaos
Eleven-year-old Theodosia lives in England during the Edwardian period. She is the daughter of a curator father and archaeologist mother. While her parents oversee the Museum of Legends and Antiquities, Theodosia has an uncanny ability of sensing ancient curses and removing them from the artifacts sent to the museum. When a specific cursed object goes missing from the museum, Theodosia has many adventures in trying to find and return the object to Egypt before the curse destroys England. Ages 9-12

Landy, Derek - Skulduggery Pleasant
When twelve-year-old Stephanie inherits her eccentric uncle’s estate, and finds herself in possession of a dangerous artifact, she must join forces with Skulduggery Pleasant, a skeleton image, to save the world from an ancient evil know as the Faceless Ones. An action-packed debut, filled with magic and witty repartee. Ages 10-14

Lutes, Jason and Bertozzi, - Nick Houdini: The Handcuff King
This graphic biography climaxes with the 1908 jump of Harry Houdini off the Harvard Bridge in which his hands and feet are bound in handcuffs. After finishing this short study into a life of determination, perseverance, and showmanship, children will want to read more about this amazing man. Ages 9-12

Malone, Peter - Close to the Wind: The Beaufort Scale
This beautiful picture book introduces readers to a little known nautical measurement of wind at sea, the Beaufort Scale. Each page depicts the ship Zephyr as she journeys from port traveling across the seas in wind conditions ranging from calm to violent storm. The right hand page shows a striking illustration of the ship and wind conditions while the left page explains the scale, a fictional account of the happenings on board and information about ships at that time. Ages: 8-11.

Marsden, Carolyn - When Heaven Fell
When her grandmother reveals that the daughter that she had given up for adoption is coming from America to visit her Vietnamese family, nine-year-old Binh is convinced that her newly discovered aunt is wealthy and will take care of her family’s needs. A touching story about culture, wealth, and family. Ages 9 and up AS

McKissack, Patricia C. - A Friendship for Today
In 1954, 12-year-old Rosemary enters the 6th grade just after her Missouri town enacts desegregation. While her best friend battles polio, Rosemary learns grace under pressure, as she accepts the disintegration of her parents marriage, deals with racial discrimination, and finds a new friend in a very unlikely place. Ages 9-12 AA

Michael, Livi City of Dogs
Young Sam receives his birthday wish in the form of Jenny, a Jack Russell terrier who seems inclined to befriend all the dogs in the neighborhood. But Jenny is really from a parallel universe, one in which a horrible wolf named Fenric has escaped and the end of the world is drawing near. Can a motley group of dogs really save nine universes? Terrific characters, wonderful descriptions and fast-paced plot make this book a must read. Ages 10 and up

Miller, Sarah Miss - - Spitfire: Reaching Helen Keller
Annie Sullivan was the determined, dedicated teacher of Helen Keller. This is a fictionalized but thoroughly researched story of how Annie taught Helen the concept of what a word is and opened the channels of communication for her and others with similar problems. Ages 9-12

O’Connor, Barbara - How to Steal a Dog
Living in the family car in their small North Carolina town after their father leaves them virtually penniless, Georgina, desperate to improve their situation and unwilling to accept her overworked mother's calls for patience, persuades her younger brother to help her in an elaborate scheme to get money by stealing a dog and then claiming the reward that the owners are bound to offer. Ages 8-12

Paulsen Gary Lawn Boy
A 12-year-old boy is given a lawnmower by his grandmother as a birthday present. Overnight Arnold becomes the owner of a business with 15 employees. A stockbroker promises to make an investment for Arnold instead of a payment, the investment is worth a half a million dollars. The novel is very humorous with financial terms used as chapter titles. Ages 9-12

Peck, Richard - On The Wings of Heroes
Set in 1941, Davy Bowman’s life in an Illinois neighborhood changes after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. His brother is off to be a B-17 pilot, and on the home front there are paper drives, scrap metal to collect, and sugar to be rationed all for the war effort. But also add the goings on of everyday life growing up in small town America and you find Peck’s delightful novel about the war effort and coming-of-age as told with both humor and comfort during a difficult time. Ages 9-11

Pennypacker, Sara The Talented Clementine
Clementine is doing quite well in third grade – until she learns that there will be a talent show. After hilarious attempts to prove otherwise (including gluing bottle caps on the bottom of her sneakers to learn tap dancing), Clementine is convinced that she has NO talent. Unexpected events surrounding the talent show prove that Clementine has a very important talent indeed! Ages 8-10

Pinkwater, Daniel - The Neddiad: How Neddie Took the Train, Went to Hollywood, and Saved Civilization
Shoelace heir Neddie Wentworthstein and his family take the train from Chicago to Los Angeles in the 1940s. Along the way he winds up in possession of a valuable Indian turtle artifact whose owner is supposed to be able to prevent the impending destruction of the world, but he is not sure exactly how. Ages 10-14

Pitchford, Dean- The Big One-Oh
Charley Maplewood sets out to throw himself a 10th birthday party. But first, he has to gain some friends and then find a theme. Thanks to his cache of "Monsters & Maniacs" magazines and the oddly impressive talents of his quirky neighbor, Garry Quarky, that second thing is no problem. Though not for the squeamish, Charley's party will bring shrieks --of laughter and more--to most 10 year olds. Ages 9-11

Porter, Tracey - Billy Creekmore
In 1905, ten-year-old Billy is taken from an orphanage to live with an aunt and uncle he never knew he had. Here he enjoys his first taste of family life until his work in a coal mine and involvement with a union brings trouble. Then, in hopes of finding his father, he joins a circus. Ages 10 and up

Salisbury, Graham - Night of the Howling Dogs
Based on real events that occurred in 1975, a Boy Scout troop in Hawaii went on a camping trip to a remote beach at the base of a volcano. After an earthquake and a subsequent tsunami strike, the troop’s survival skills are put to the ultimate test in this thrilling, yet haunting, adventure story. Ages 9-12

Schlitz, Laura Amy - Good Masters! Sweet Ladies!: Voices From a Medieval Village
Life inside a medieval village is cleverly presented in this illustrated collection of short one-person plays featuring characters, between ten and fifteen years old, who live in a thirteenth-century English manor. Woven throughout the book are detailed passages that provide snapshots of medieval society and serve as background information to the plays. Ages 10-12

Schmidt, Gary D. - The Wednesday Wars
Holling Hoodhood was special. He was the only 7th grader at Camillo Junior High not going to Hebrew school or Catechism on Wednesday afternoons because he was Presbyterian. He would be stuck with Mrs. Baker, and Shakespeare. How could he know that the dreaded Wednesday afternoons in 1967 would change them both forever? Ages 10-14

Selznick, Brian The Invention of Hugo Cabret: A Novel in Words and Pictures
Blending picture book, graphic novel, and film techniques, this is the artfully told story of twelve-year-old Hugo, the orphan of a clockmaker. Abandoned by his drunken uncle, Hugo must maintain the train station clocks and hide that he is alone in the world. But Hugo has more than one secret; he is determined to complete the automation his father started, and reveal the secret message. Ages 9-12

Sis, Peter - The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain
Using succinct yet powerful text to accompany illustrations that reveal new layers of complexity with each read, Sis chronicles growing up under communism in Prague. Sprinkled throughout Sis' illustrations are facts documenting the elimination of everyday freedoms under communist rule, leading up to a joyful resolution with the destruction of the Wall. Ages 10-12

Smith, Roland - Peak
14-year-old Peak is sent to live with his famous mountain climber father in Kathmandu. Believing that it will help his business, Peak’s father wants him to become the youngest person to climb Mt. Everest. Through his many adventures, a maturing Peak comes to realize what is really important in life. Ages 11-13

Spinelli, Eileen - Summerhouse Time
Sophie is looking forward to spending time at the beach with her family especially her cousin Colleen. This year is different, Colleen is very standoffish and everyone seems to be too worried to have fun. Spinelli’s novel has humorous moments and also shows how families relate one to another. Ages 9-12

Springer, Nancy - The Case of the Left-Handed Lady: An Enola Holmes Mystery
Fourteen year old Enola Holmes is Sherlock’s younger sister and has her own detective agency. When a young lady of privilege goes missing, Enola uses many disguises to move through Victorian Era London to solve the case. Descriptive historical details along with suspense and humor make this a great mystery. Ages 12-14

Strauss, Rochelle - One Well: The Story of Water on Earth
Imagine that the water you drank yesterday may have been consumed by dinosaurs many thousands of years ago! Or that the total amount of water you will drink in your lifetime will fill a backyard swimming pool! All water on earth is connected and everyone can take steps to protect it in their daily lives. Ages 8-10

Tarshis, Lauren - Emma-Jean Lazarus Fell Out of a Tree
Emma Jean Lazarus is logical, mathematical and uninterested in the lives of her fellow classmates. That is until she finds Colleen weeping in the bathroom. With humor and insight, the author follows Emma Jean as she gets embroiled in the lives of classmates and eventually does fall from a tree. Ages 8-12

Tate, Eleanora E. - Celeste’s Harlem Renaissance
Thirteen-year-old Celeste is a talented student and musician living in Raleigh, North Carolina in 1921. Her life is turned upside down when her father gets sick and she is sent to live with her aunt in Harlem, where she finds the Harlem Renaissance in full swing and much to question about the meaning of family and home. Ages 9 and up AA

Taylor, Peter Lane - The Secret of Priest’s Grotto: A Holocaust Survival Story
Recent exploration of a 70-foot-deep cave produced evidence of human habitation. Furthers investigation found a true life riveting account of three Jewish families that survived the Nazis invasion of the Ukraine by living in an underground cave for almost a year. Moving historical and contemporary photos bring this absorbing story to life. Ages 10-14

Toksvig, Sandi - Hitler's Canary
This coming-of-age story is about Bamse, a boy living in Denmark during the Nazi occupation between 1940 and 1944. Bamse struggles with his wish to resist the Nazis like his older brother, Orlando, and his desire to please his father and not antagonize the invaders. As Hitler's regime continues to impinge on the rights of the Danes, the family learns that silent cooperation is no longer a viable option. Ages 10-14

Vaupel, Robin - Rules of the Universe by Austin W. Hale
Austin’s grandfather, a famous Nobel Prize winning scientist, introduced Austin to the world of molecular science. Now he is dying of cancer, and Austin is determined to harness the power of an amazing regenerative star, and save his grandfather’s life. When he begins to experiment with the people around him, Austin discovers the universal rules of life. Ages 10-14

Wade, Rebecca - The Theft and the Miracle
Hannah is overweight and insecure, but a talented artist. One rainy day, she ducks into a cathedral that houses a famous statue of the Madonna and Child. Feeling a connection to the statue, she sketches it, quickly rendering a perfect drawing. When the statue of the Child is stolen, Hannah’s connection draws her into the mysterious and mystical events surrounding its disappearance. Ages 9-12

White, Ruth - Way Down Deep
In the close-knit West Virginia town of Way Down Deep in the 1950s, a foundling called Ruby June is happily living with Miss Arbutus at the local boardinghouse when suddenly, after the arrival of a family of outsiders, the mystery of Ruby’s past begins to unravel. Ages 9-13

Wiles, Deborah - The Aurora County All-Stars
For most boys in a small Mississippi town, the biggest concern one hot summer is whether their annual July 4th baseball game will be cancelled due to their county’s anniversary pageant. But after the death of the old man to whom twelve-year-old House Jackson has been secretly reading for a year, House uncovers secrets about the man and the history of baseball in Aurora County that could fix everything. Ages 10-13

Wilson, N.D. - Leepike Ridge
Eleven-year-old Tom, escaping thoughts of a potential stepfather, is swept downriver into a series of underwater caves where he encounters dead bodies, a hermit, astonishing ancient artifacts, and confirmation of his fears about his missing father. While his mom valiantly attempts to rescue him, Tom outwits dangerous, unscrupulous, unskilled treasure hunters seeking the archaeological treasures. Ages 8-12

Wolf, Joan M. - Someone Named Eva
It’s 1942. The Germans seek blond, blue-eyed children to be retrained as perfect Germans in their Lebensborn program. Milada is taken from her home in Lidich, Czechoslovakia, becomes Eva, and is adopted by an important German family who live near the Ravensbruck concentration camp. Throughout, Milada never forgets her true identity. Ages 10-14

Woodson, Jacqueline Feathers
In 1971, when a white boy joins her all black 6th grade class, Frannie struggles with questions of faith, race, class, prejudice, friendship, and family. She finds answers in “hope” and is fascinated by Emily Dickinson’s poem, “Hope is the thing with feathers . . . .” Age 9 and up DO

Wynne-Jones, Tim Rex - Zero and the End of the World
In the summer of 1962, with the Cold War looming, 11-year-old Rex Zero and his quirky family move to Ottawa. It doesn’t take long to make new friends, including Kathy, who is determined to catch a runaway panther. Filled with humor and 60’s pop culture, Rex faces personal challenges and finds a new understanding of the world around him. Ages 8-12

Zimmer, Tracie Vaughn - Reaching for Sun
Josie, who lives with her mother and grandmother and has cerebral palsy, befriends a boy who moves into one of the rich houses behind her old farmhouse. Written in verse, this coming-of-age story captures the complexities of a girl growing up among unexpected changes in her neighborhood, friendships, and herself. Ages 10-12 DO

GREAT BOOKS FOR TEENS
ANNOTATED LIST
Teens - Printable Version [PDF]

The annotations below are collected from the following professional journals: Booklist, Horn Book, Kirkus, Publisher’s Weekly, and School Library Journal.

Abadzis, Nick Laika
In 1957, a small scrappy dog became the first living organism to enter Earth’s orbit. Abadzis’ emotionally harrowing graphic novel brings Laika’s story to life as he chronicles the triumph of progress and politics over morality. Ages 14 and up. GN NF

Abdel-Fattah, Randa - Does My Head Look Big In This?
Amal is a typical teenage girl who enjoys shopping, crushing on boys, and Sex in the City reruns. She’s also the only Muslim student at her exclusive Australian prep school, and she’s just decided to start wearing a hijab full-time. This funny and touching story follows her emotional and spiritual journey in the wake of that life-changing decision. Ages 12 and up. DO

Abouet, Marguerite and Oubrerie, Clement - Aya
In this romantic comedy set in 1970’s Cote d’Ivoire, middle class teen Aya navigates the travails of growing up. Ever the level-headed one, Aya watches from the sidelines as her two best friends, one of whom is pregnant, duke it out for the same young man’s affection. Although few readers will be familiar with this period of post-colonial prosperity in West Africa, teens will surely recognize and appreciate elements of their own lives. Ages 14 and up. DO GN

Alegria, Malin Sofi Mendoza’s Guide to Getting Lost in Mexico
Sofi Mendoza is an average teenage girl infatuated with shopping, boys, and trying to break free from her strict immigrant parents’ rules. After an adventurous trip to Mexico with her friends, Sofi learns who she truly is. Readers will be engaged with Sofi’s struggle with her Mexican and American bicultural identity. Ages 14 and up. HISP

Alexie, Sherman - The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
Junior, a fourteen year old promising cartoonist, leaves his Spokane Indian Reservation for a better educational opportunity at an all-white high school. Junior’s struggles of reservation life and adjusting to a new school are humorous and effectively optimistic. Readers will really enjoy the illustrations. Ages 14 and up. DO

Andronik, Catherine M. - Wildly Romantic: The English Romantic Poets – the Mad, the Bad, and the Dangerous
This rollicking trip through the lives of the early 19th century poets of the English Lake Country makes for a juicy yet informative read. Coleridge, Wordsworth, Byron, et al. come to life as the original bad boys of popular culture, while the author sneaks in literary information before the reader realizes what’s happened. Ages 14 and up. NF

Arnold, Tedd - Rat Life
A murder mystery like no other! This gritty suspense thriller is set in upstate New York, where, in our protagonist life, nothing new ever happens. That is until a dead body surfaces. As Todd works to solve the mystery, he becomes more and more concerned over his friend Rat’s possible involvement. Ages 14 and up

Barakat, Ibtisam - Tasting the Sky: A Palestinian Childhood
This is an eloquent memoir of Ibtisam Barakat’s childhood experiences of the Six-Day War in Palestine. Barakat’s story is one of love, family, sadness, and hope. This engaging and extremely poetic book is an emotive read from beginning to end. Ages 14 and up. DO NF

Barnes, Jennifer Lynn - Tattoo
Who knew a tattoo could change your life? Bailey and her three best friends discover that their new temporary tattoos have given them magical powers. Armed with these powers, they must defeat evil in time for the school dance. A funny, adventurous chick-lit fantasy. Ages 12 and up

Bey, Daywoud (Photographer) - - Class Pictures
This “coffee table book for teens” features large color portraits of high school student from diverse backgrounds. Text written by each subject allows viewers insight into the students’ lives, experiences, and states of mind. Ages 14 and up.MC NF

Brooks, Kevin - Being
Robert thought it was just stomach ulcer. But when the doctors put him on the operating table and look down his throat, what they find is much more. Wires. Tubes. Filaments. An entire universe of terrible, beautiful technology hiding just beneath his skin. The doctors are horrified. What is he? Robert doesn't know. But in his desperate, bloody quest to stay free and whole, he'll discover how far some people will go to find out. Ages 14 and up

Burgess, Melvin - Sara's Face
Sara wants to be famous more than anything. So when the legendary pop icon, Jonathan Heat, offers to personally transform her into a star, she couldn't be more excited. But Heat's layers of cosmetic surgery hide a terrible secret, and his offer comes with a deadly price. This dark and suspenseful tale will keep readers guessing to the last page. Ages 14 and up

Caletti, Deb The Nature of Jade
In addition to being recently diagnosed with panic disorder, 17-year old Jade DeLuna is struggling with various stresses. She finds peace from her anxiety at night when she tunes into the elephant cam on the Seattle Zoo's website, which is where she first discovers the handsome young Sebastien and his 15-month old son. Soon immersed in this small family unit and very much in love, Jade is stunned to discover that Sebastien is hiding a terrible secret, one that will force her to make a difficult decision. Ages 14 and up

Cameron, Peter - Someday This Pain Will Be Useful to You
In a first-person narrative, 18-year-old Manhattanite James Sveck tells his story. While mature and urbane, James still deals with teenage concerns like loneliness and the difficulty of making emotional connections. This very moving story is told with humor and humanity. Ages 16 and up

Carey, Mike - Re-Gifters
Korean-American Dixie is the best hapkido student in the class, but her crush on fellow student Adam is definitely affecting her. When she spends her entrance fee to the tournament on an a gift for him, his true colors appear. Now Dixie needs to regain her focus in time for the tournament. Ages 12 and up AS GN

Carter, Timothy - Epoch
It's the end of the world-- really. Demons are coming to scourge the Earth in 48 hours. In this humorous, fantastic story of the end of the human epoch, 14-year-old Vincent must find a way to get his family off the planet -- quickly. Ages 12 and up

Castellucci, Cecil - Beige
Katy is forced by her mother to leave Montreal and spend the summer with her father, a famous punk rock drummer and recovering drug addict. Compared to the colorful characters that surround her Katy is rather bland, earning her the moniker “Beige” by the daughter of her father’s band mate. Over the course of the summer Katy begins to out grow her bland demeanor and begins to form strong relationships with the people around her. Ages 14 and up

Downham, Jenny - Before I Die
After prolonged suffering, 16-year-old Tessa Scott finally refuses chemotherapy in a bid to die on her own terms. With only a few months to live, she makes a list of all of the things she would like to experience before her body fails her. As she grows weaker, Tessa cycles through feelings of grief, lust, rage, and fear, but ultimately clings to the smallest pleasures with an intensity that few people will ever experience. Ages 14 and up

Doyle, Larry - I Love You, Beth Cooper
A geeky valedictorian and his awkward sidekick have the adventure of their lives when a declaration of unrequited love kicks off a night of chases, rescues, escapes, and teenage tomfoolery. Ages 16 and up

Doyle, Roddy - Wilderness
Tom and Johnny, two Irish brothers, go with their mother on a dogsledding vacation to Finland. In a parallel story, their half-sister is preparing to reunite with her birth mother back home. The adventurous journey the boys hope to have in Finland becomes reality when their mother disappears, and they will do anything they can to find her. Ages 12 and up

Elkeles, Simone - Leaving Paradise
Maggie arrives home from the hospital after a long stay due to a car accident. Caleb has just come home from jail, for driving the car that injured Maggie. As each approach their senior year of high school, they must confront each other and how their lives have changed since the accident, in some ways for the better. Ages 14 and up

Giles, Gail Right Behind You
An argument leads to grizzly tragedy when Kip loses control and sets fire to the boy next door. Finding himself interned in a ward for young delinquents, he now must undergo intensive therapy and come to terms with his actions. Once free and living under an assumed name, will Kip make peace with himself or jeopardize his life and family in a fit of self-destruction? Ages 14 and up

Hale, Shannon - Book of a Thousand Days
Dashti and her mistress, Lady Saren, are about to be locked in a tower for seven years, all because Lady Saren will not marry the man her father chose. Now Dashti must summon all her wits and courage to make sure they survive their imprisonment and perhaps even make their escape. Dashti's bravery may save not only the life of her Lady, but the lives of an entire kingdom. Ages 12 and up. AS

Halpin, Brendan - How Ya Like Me Now
Eddie goes to live with his aunt and uncle after his mother leaves for rehabilitation. He has a hard time adjusting and his cousin isn't helping matters. The two boys must learn to live together. Ages 12 and up

Hobbs, Valerie Anything But Ordinary
The loving bond between two quirky teenagers is tested when events beyond their control begin to change them. Can they save one another from becoming ordinary and salvage their unique relationship? Ages 14 and up

Hoffman, Mary - Falconer’s Knot: A Story of Friars, Flirtation and Foul Play
When Silvano, the young son of a nobleman, is falsely accused of murder, he is forced to take sanctuary in a Franciscan friary. There he meets Chiara, a pretty young novice in the nearby nunnery. But when murder victims start turning up at the friary too, he and Chiara must uncover the real killer in order to clear Silvano’s name. Ages 12 and up

Hopkins, Ellen - Impulse
Conner, Vanessa, and Tony’s lives suddenly collide in one place, Aspen Springs, a psychiatric hospital for young adults with varying needs. What leads each of them to the suicide attempts that landed them in Aspen Springs varies, but their struggle to “get better’ is very much the same. Told in poetic free verse, this is a quick read that is bound to thrill. Ages 14 and up

Hornby, Nick Slam
When his girlfriend becomes pregnant, Sam doesn’t know what to do. Should he come clean with his parents and do the right thing or skip town completely to start a new life in Hastings? Imagined conversations with skateboarding hero Tony Hawk only seems to confuse matters – especially when Sam is whizzed to the future to experience fatherhood firsthand. Ages 14 and up

Jones, Diana Wynne - The Game
Hayley's not sure what she did wrong. But whatever it was, it made her grandparents angry enough to send her to live with her aunt in Ireland. As Hayley adjusts to life with a family that is much larger (and much stranger) than she ever imagined, she learns a thrilling new game that takes her quite literally out-of-this-world, and sets her on a wild adventure that could save her entire family. Ages 12 and up

Kraft, Erik P. - Miracle Wimp
Tom Mayo reflects on his reality as a high school student in vaguely chronological vignettes. Pictures accompany the comical entries, making it perfect for reluctant readers. Ages 12 and up

Lockhart, E. - Dramarama
Sarah (or is it Sadye?) and her gay guy friend Demi are obsessed with all things theatrical. When they get a chance to go to a drama summer camp, it seems like a dream come true. But with new people and new experiences outside their world, will things ever be the same? Ages 14 and up. MC

Maeda, Tomo - Black Sun, Silver Moon vol. 1
An indebted family sends their son to live with a mysterious priest and assist him with his daily chores. Little do they know those chores include killing marauding zombies! Together, the two must protect the town, if only they can learn to get along. Ages 14 and up GN

Marr, Melissa - Wicked Lovely
A mix of the ancient faerie mythology and the contemporary world work well together, as 17-year-old Aislinn and her “roommate” Seth venture to find love and happiness. The tried-and-true coming-of-age story of leaving safety for a new existence is given a new twist in this charming, steamy fantasy. Ages 14 and up

Medina, Nico - The Straight Road to Kylie
In a moment of inebriated bad judgment, gay high school senior Jonathan Parish sleeps with one of his female friends at a party and pretty soon the word gets out. Suddenly Jonathan is a hot commodity, so when the most popular girl in school approaches him with a deal—pretend to be her boyfriend in exchange for tickets to see pop goddess Kylie Minogue in concert—Jonathan finds himself willingly going back into the closet…but is that really where he wants to be? Ages 14 and up. DO

Miéville, China - Un Lun Dun
Two twelve-year-old girls find themselves in an unusual situation, revealing UnLondon, the mirror image of the city in which they reside. Fantastical and mundane characters are encountered in their journey to save both places. Along the way, other “parallel cities” are seen. Zanna, “the chosen one”, and her friend Deeba move through this fast-paced adventure/fantasy and arrive at clever solutions to situations, that aren’t always the same as those foretold. Ages 12 and up

Mitsunaga, Yasunori - Princess Resurrection, vol. 1.
Hiro Hiyorimi remembers being hit by a truck and dying. So why is he somehow alive again, who is this mysterious Princess Hime who claims he must now be her servant forever, and why do vampires, werewolves, and invisible men keep trying to kill both of them? Gothic horror mixes with comic hijinks as Hiro gradually learns the truth about Hime, and about what he has become. Ages 14 and up. GN

Moore, Perry - Hero
Thom Creed is the son of a disgraced super hero, who must deal with his emerging super powers, his sexuality and the consequences that occur when he secretly joins the League that disowned his father. Ages 16 and up. DO

Morgenroth, Kate - Echo
Justin witnesses his brother kill himself accidentally. A year later he experiences a day that ends in another tragedy. Justin wakes up and the events of the previous day keep repeating themselves. As time goes by Justin starts understanding more about what happened, but he also is losing his grip on reality. Ages 14 and up

Myers, Walter Dean - Harlem Summer
Mark is a 16-year-old aspiring jazz musician. His hopes for a lazy summer filled with gigs are dashed when he ends up with a job at an important magazine. Between meeting influential writers and musicians, he becomes embroiled in a crime caper with mobster Dutch Schultz. A fictional take on the lives of some very real characters in 1920s Harlem. Ages 12 and up. AA

O'Dell, Kathleen - Bad Tickets
It's 1967, and Mary Margaret is tired of her strict Catholic upbringing. She longs to rebel and her chance arrives in form of her new friend Jane, a confident free spirit who encourages Mary to say yes to life. Strong female characters add depth to this funny and engaging story of friendship and family. Ages 14 and up

Peet, Mal. - Tamar
All fifteen-year-old Tamar knows about her grandfather is that she is named after his WWII codename. After his suicide, she inherits a strange box of wartime memorabilia that hints at some deeper mystery about his past. Driven to learn more, Tamar sets out on a journey to investigate her grandfather's history and ends up learning some shocking secrets about her own. Ages 14 and up

Phillips, Suzanne - Chloe Doe
Chloe is a teenage prostitute. After being arrested, rather than going to jail, she is sent to Madeline Parker Institute for Girls. Over the course of the book, through Chloe’s talk therapy sessions and flashbacks, the story of Chloe’s life slowly unfolds, eventually forcing Chloe to realize that the events in her past - her emotionally negligent mother, her stepfather’s abuse, and her older sister’s murder – do not dictate her future. Ages 14 and up

Pixley, Marcella - Freak
Miriam has always been different from the other girls her age, and it never really bothered her before. But then her older sister, who she could always count on for support, abandons her to join the popular crowd just as Miriam becomes the target of vicious bullying by a classmate. Marcella Pixley’s debut novel realistically portrays the difficulty of being an outcast in middle school and what it can do to even the strongest teen. Ages 12 and up

Rabb, Margo - Cures for Heartbreak
A darkly humorous account of the year Mia's mother dies of cancer and her father has a heart attack. Mia's experience with loss and her Jewish family's personal history give new weight and meaning to her crushes and friendships. Excellent writing and an eye for absurd detail make this a compelling read. Ages 14 and up

Reinhardt, Dana - Harmless
Friends Anna, Emma and Mariah tell a little lie to get out of trouble with their parents. Told in alternating points of view, each girl reacts differently to the consequences of what turns out definitely not to be just a harmless little lie. Ages 14 and up

St. James, James - Freak Show
Meet Billy Bloom, absolutely fabulous teen drag queen in training and new transplant to Florida. Billy's personality targets him for escalating verbal and physical abuse at the hands of sadistic cheerleaders and thuggish football players, but he refuses to give in, ultimately finding an ally in jock golden boy Flip Kelly and mobilizing a troop of outcasts in his controversial bid for the homecoming queen crown. Teens will delight in Billy's witty, acerbic voice and cheer for this unlikely hero. Ages 16 and up. DO

Selzer, Adam - How to Get Suspended and Influence People
When the 8th grade gifted pool class receives an assignment to create educational videos for the lower grades, free thinker Leon Harris decides to make a real film, one that tells kids the facts about sex and re-assures them that what they’re going through is normal. But when a puritanical teacher declares his avant-garde sex ed video inappropriate and Leon is suspended from school, he becomes the school's cause célèbre in a spirited and hilarious fight for freedom of speech. Ages 12 and up

Shanahan, Lisa - The Sweet, Terrible, Glorious Year I Truly, Completely Lost It
Gemma’s story can make you laugh and cry and cheer on every page. An Australian fourteen-year-old, Gemma tells the story of her family, her sister’s marriage, and the funny characters of the new "in-law" family. She also tells the story of her personal discovery, a new friend...or more. Ages 12 and up

Stolen Voices: Young People’s War Diaries, from World War I to Iraq
As a teenager, Zlata Filipovic gained international fame in 1994 with the publication of her personal diary from the Yugoslav Civil War. Now an adult, she has brought us this unique collection of diary entries from youths caught up in numerous wars over the last century. From 1914 to 2004, from different sides of each conflict, their voices combine to paint a vivid picture of the brutality of war and its effects on young people. Ages 12 and up. MC NF

Strasser, Todd - Boot Camp
Garrett Durrell isn’t a bad kid; yet he finds himself paying the ultimate price for his mistakes with a stint in “Lake Harmony,” a behavioral rehabilitation camp for troubled teens. Can Garrett survive this boot camp’s physical, mental, and emotional abuse; when so many of those who came before him could not? Ages 14 and up

Tan, Shaun - The Arrival
This wordless graphic novel depicts a man leaving his homeland for a new country. Beautiful, intricate illustrations allow readers to experience a universal immigrant's tale, filled with confusion and wonder. Ages 12 and up. GN

Velez, Ivan and others - Dead High Yearbook
In a layout resembling a real yearbook, Velez and his fellow artists tell delightfully macabre horror tales of zombies, and other undead, in the style of classic horror comics. Ages 12 and up. GN

Vincent, Erin - Grief Girl: My True Story
When Erin Vincent was 14-years-old, she lost both of her parents to a tragic accident. This is her memoir, a moving and at times painfully honest account of high school years spent trying to cope with her loss and a life suddenly turned upside-down. Conniving relatives and a complex relationship with her older-sister-turned-reluctant-guardian only add to the difficulties as she searches for the strength to carry on. Ages 14 and up.NF

Volponi, Paul - Rucker Park Setup
It’s the championship basketball game at Rucker Park, and all eyes are on star-player Mackey. But Mackey's finding it hard to think about his game when his best friend, J.R., was stabbed and killed on the very same court just a few short weeks ago. Mackey knows J.R.'s death was his fault, even though he didn't wield the knife himself. Now J.R.'s killer is watching his every move and Mackey's got a decision to make. The outcome of the game, and Mackey's own life, may hang in the balance. Ages 12 and up. AA

Warren, Frank - A Lifetime of Secrets
The latest book from the PostSecret project is roughly chronological through life, with submissions from secret keepers from about age 8 to 80. The secrets are a mix of sorrowful and joyous, the momentous to feather-light. Ages 12 and up. NF

Weinheimer, Beckie - Converting Kate
Kate's life has been dominated by the rules of her mother's restrictive religion. After her father's death, Kate's mom moves them from Arizona to Maine to start anew. There Kate becomes exposed to a whole new world and gains a deeper understanding of what it means to have faith. Ages 14 and up

Wight, Eric - My Dead Girlfriend, vol. 1
Finney Bleak is a high school student with an interesting family history. He finds love at a fair only to have her disappear -- or so he thinks. The art is dark and the story is comical. Ages 12 and up. GN

Wittlinger, Ellen - Parrotfish
Before Thanksgiving break Grady McNair was known as Angela. After coming out as a transsexual he faces family rejection and hatred from his fellow classmates, however along the way he also discovers some true friendships and unexpected allies. While this book does gloss over some of the issues faced by GLBT individuals, due to its compressed timeline, it does create a good book group opportunity. Ages 14 and up. DO

Zarr, Sara - Story of a Girl
Deanna's life is changed forever when her father catches her having sex at age thirteen. Now, three years later, she must struggle against her reputation, her dysfunctional family, the limitations of her small town and her own self in order to discover a sense of self-worth. Ages 14 and up

Zevin, Gabrielle - Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac
Naomi slips & falls on a flight of stairs, resulting in a case of amnesia that erases the last four years from her memory. Now she must make sense of her parents divorce, reevaluate her friendships, and question her romantic choices as she struggles with who she was and who she will become. Ages 14 and up

This page is provided by the Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, Maryland USA.
The text version of this page was last revised on 26 August 2008.
The graphics version of this page was last revised on 26 August 2008.
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