Off the Shelf 0607-23

Twilight
By Stephanie Meyer
© 2005

I’ll admit I would not have been drawn to this book on my own…but it WAS the single most checked out book in the library this year and it WAS the Florida Teen Read 2006 Winner and on top of that I get recommendations from 9^th grade students such as,

“I liked the combination of suspense and romance.” Janeth A.

“It was scary and full of action, but also sweet.” Gloria P.

“This was my favorite book this year – it really kept me interested.” Andres G.

“Absolutely the best book!” Cara L.

The plot centers around 17-year old Bella and her boyfriend, Edward, who, by the way, is a century-old vampire in the guise of a 17-year old boy. They struggle to keep from being destroyed by other vampires, as well as, from allowing others to discover his secret. Despite the constant balancing act between the reality and fantasy, the author manages to capture your imagination and your heart and takes you for an enjoyable ride full of apprehension and love.

What is most fascinating is the author’s explanation of how vampires evolved, how some vampires have special powers, and how the description of the pale and cold skin becomes attractive to humans.

The suspense of the novel is easily captured in the very last line of the book, “ And he leaned down to press his cold lips once more to my throat.” So does Bella survive as a human? Does she die? Or is she, herself, transformed into a vampire? Meyer has authored New Moon to entice her readership for more!

My recommendation: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0607-22

The Whole Sky Full of Stars
By Rene Saldana, Jr.
© 2007

Though not a particular fan of boxing, gambling, or restoring old cars, I was fascinated with the story of Barry and Alby. Barry and Alby’s friendship is tested when Alby falls victim to gambling with thug-like cardsharks and manipulates Barry into entering a boxing match. The action is fast-moving and the intricacies of the culminating event are exposed in detail.

As with many stories, the action is simply a lens for underlying themes of reality. This one is no exception with its exploration of friendship, family relationships, and the meaning of truth and honesty. Saldana intertwines all elements well and though it is a short book I did not feel short-changed with character development.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Walker Mustang

Nearing the end of the Spring semester and decided the blog needed a dose of fun - couldn't resist creating Walker Mustang with a short message!



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Off the Shelf 0607- 21

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key
By Jack Gantos
© 1998

Ever feel like your world is out of control? You haven’t met Joey Pigza yet! Poor Joey – he drives everyone crazy with his antics…and he frustrates himself, as well. He really does try very hard to be good, but nothing seems to work – not even his medication for attention-deficit disorder. When Joey accidentally trips carrying scissors while running towards another student, the results are disastrous!

Reading this book is like living in the mind and body of a hyperactive child. Although Joey’s behavior is sometimes entertaining, it creates stress and frustration for not only his teachers, parent, and fellow students, but also for himself. There are many insights for those who might know of or work with children or adolescents with ADD. More importantly, the themes of identity, self-esteem, family, and love are universal.

My recommendation: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0607-20

How I Live Now
By Meg Rosoff
© 2004

This Printz award winner and Junior Library Guild selection focuses on Daisy, an unhappy 15-year old, who leaves her family in New York City to spend the summer in England with cousins. Almost immediately, she finds little to remember about her negligent father, obnoxious step-mother, and soon-to-be-born sibling. She is immersed in the chores and fun of rural life on a country farm – chicken-feeding, fishing holes, and goat-chasing!

Two events dictate the remaining plot line: Daisy falls in love with her cousin, Edmond, and a war breaks out. These disruptions offer a variety of adventures and mishaps, along with some sobering encounters with love, friendship, death, and survival. The story is inviting and addicting, making it one of those books you “can’t put down.” Part of that feeling for me was intertwined with the “I can’t believe this is happening” tickle.

Rosoff’s writing is surreal and quite addicting. With it’s various awards, I had higher expectations, but attribute my rating partly to one of those ‘moods.’ The bizarre story kept me reading, but it wasn’t necessarily because I wanted to read it – more like I felt I had to get to the end.

My recommendation: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist