Sunday, July 1, 2012

Feiwel & Friends have published something new and fresh in this Cyborg Cinderella story for teens.  Set in Japan in the future, the characters are dealing with an impending war between earth and the Lunars, a horrible plague reaking havoc in cities across the world, killing, with no cure.  The prince comes to Cinder to fix his android, who is caring secrets he needs access to, in hopes of saving his world.  Great twist with more to come.  Not a big sci-fi fan, but I loved this!  Can't wait for the next one!
Bittersweet Summer by Anne Warren Smith (Albert Whitman & Co. 2012) This is the third book in a fun series for the younger chapter book reader.  This book is set the summer after 4th grade.  New friends, little brothers, and parental changes, all add to the charm of this family story. 
http://www.annewarrensmith.com/Home_Page.html
Personified animal story of a Silverback gorilla, elephants and a mutt.  Inspired by a real captive gorilla who lived in a mall.  Things change when baby Ruby comes to stay and a promise is made between friends.  Slow paced but an easy, quick read.  It was a sweet animal story.  A touching tale that hits home, as right here in Hope, Maine we have rescued circus elephants coming to a refuge soon. 
http://hopeelephants.org/faq
Matt and his father don't get along. Neither one gets the other. But he reluctantly agrees to go on a dig in Mexico right after an earthquake. 30 days. There are two teens young men's stories being told simultaneously; Matt's modern tale while on the dig, discovering himself, and re-evaluating his faith. And Teom's tale from the Book of Mormon time, who is trying to save his family in a time of severe corruption, murder and thievery, while maintaining his faith. Although, not of Mormon faith, this story was captivating. I was refreshed, learning details of another faith, and it was exciting. It also gave a great peak into the world of archeology.