Can I Read That Book After You?

Words that we love to hear in the library!  Here are some books that are sure to generate reading excitement.

Birth of a Killer (The Saga of Larten Crepslely)

By Darren Shan

This book is the latest edition in the Cirque de Freak series.  This story chronicles the childhood of Larten Crepsley and his apprenticeship into vampirehood.  It is a prequel to the series and can be read as a standalone book or part of the series.  I selected this book after discussing popular series books with a friend who works at a High School Media Center.   The book was released this fall and was highly anticipated by fans of the series. 

Wanted

By Sara Shepherd

Wanted is the latest in the ever popular Pretty Little Liar Series.  Many readers may not be aware that the book series came BEFORE the popular tv show.  Regardless of which was discovered first, the book series has generated enthusiasm and it seems to be impossible to stop reading the series once started.  I selected this as a Hot Read as I have seen the books circulated among my daughter’s 7^th grade friends.  During the summer it was impossible to get a copy of the latest PLL from the library and I will admit several emergency trips to book stores were made to keep the reading frenzy going.

The Lost Hero

By Rick Riordan

This is the first book in Riordan’s new five book series.  The series involves some of the characters from the popular Percy Jackson series as well as new characters and twists.  The remaining books are scheduled to be released on a year in the fall. I selected this as a hot pick based on the number of times I have seen it on the request list at my school library.  There are constantly 3 or 4 students waiting for it.  Time to order more copies!

Speak

By Laurie Halse Anderson

Although this book is over 10 years old it has found a renewed popularity.   The story is told from the point of view of Melinda, a high school student who is literally struggling to find her voice after a traumatic experience.  Although the subject matter is difficult, Speak is an important story to share with young adults.  I selected it based on it’s important subject matter, its realistic portrayal of high school life,  and because I believe it is a valuable choice to use in a discussion group.

Good Reads!

Three Cups of Tea

By Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

This novel should be read by all!.  Most of us know U.S troops are stationed around the world however, few of us understand the people and cultures of the countries where troops are stationed.  This novel puts faces on the people some of us consider to be the enemy.  It is also a story of one man’s determination to follow through on a vision. 

Revolution is Not a Dinner Party
By Ying Chang Compestine

This book gives a firsthand view of the cultural revolution in China beginning in 1972.  The descriptions are especially vivid as the story is based on real life experiences of the author growing up in Wuhan during this time period.  The story is told from the perspective of 10 year old Ling who is facing the realities of the revolution when her father is imprisoned. What I loved about this novel is that it brings in the harsh realities of this time and also tells a story of how family relationships survive/evolve during times of crisis.

By  the Time you Read This, I’ll Be Dead

By Julie Anne Peters

As disturbing as the title sounds, this is book is actually quite hopeful!   It is the story of Daelyn Rice who describes herself as “broken beyond repair”.  Daelyn has been the victim of bullying since Kindergarten and as a result has attempted suicide.  A new unlikely friendship changes Daelyn’s outlook on life.