Pretty Dead October 29, 2009

Title: Pretty Dead

Author: Francesca Lia Block

Summary: Charlotte, with her willowy frame, designer clothes, perfect skin, and long blonde hair is pretty. But she is also dead. A vampire who has traveled the world and been witness to nearly every horror of the 20th century, she longs for a companion to spend her days with, even though she would never curse another with immortality. When she meets the sweet-natured Emily, they develop an intense friendship. But when Emily’s dead body is found, the result of an apparent suicide, Charlotte begins to change. It begins with a torn fingernail. Then, a pimple appears on her perfect forehead.

As Charlotte wonders what is happening to her, her relationship with Emily’s boyfriend Jared intensifies. And when Charlotte’s creator and former companion William, appears, it seems that not even the dead are safe. Can Charlotte reclaim her humanity and keep Jared from succumbing to his desire to become a monster? This fast-paced story takes the traditional vampire tale and twists it just enough to satisfy readers who might be Twilight-ed out.

Who will like this book: Fans of paranormal romances (and not just the ones by Stephenie Meyer.) Readers who have enjoyed the other urban fantasy books by this prolific and award-winning author.

If you like this, try this: The Weetzie Bat books by Francesca Lia Block. The Immortals books by Alyson Noel. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick.

Recommended by: Nicole, Teen Librarian

Castle Waiting September 12, 2009

Title: Castle Waiting

Author/Illustrator: Linda Medley

Summary: What happens after Sleeping Beauty wakes up? She leaves her enchanted castle behind to go live with her prince, of course! This imaginative graphic novel tells the story of those she left behind – ladies-in-waiting, magical creatures and other castle dwellers who also succumbed to the sleeping spell who wait…and wait…and wait for their princess to return.

The castle becomes legendary as a place for outcasts and wanderers, including the mysterious Lady Jain, taciturn Iron Henry, and the hilarious Sister Peaceful. Like any great fairy tale, there is no shortage of magical creatures wreaking havoc and clever solutions to seemingly impossible problems. Castle Waiting is a charming, fast-paced read and will leave you smiling.

Who will like this book?: Fans of fractured fairy tales and light-hearted, romantic, fun stories.

If you like this, try this: Into the Wild and Out of the Wild by Sarah Beth Durst. For mature readers, the Fables series by Bill Willingham or books by Gregory Maguire (Wicked, Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister, etc.)

Recommended by: Nicole, Teen Librarian

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies September 10, 2009

Title: Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

Author: Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith

Summary: It’s Pride and Prejudice…with zombies! Fighting off zombie attacks are a daily chore for the Bennet sisters. During their years of training in China, they have honed their mastery with the sword, becoming famous in their small town for their abilities. Our hero Mr. Darcy happens to also be a famous zombie slayer. It would be a match made in heaven if not for Darcy’s superior status and the disapproving glare of his aunt, the renowned Lady Catherine de Bourgh. With the classic cast of passionate, sharp-mouthed, lovesick characters, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies brings this original tale back to life – literally.

Who will like this book?: If you’re a fan of Gregory Maguire, I’d say this book is for you. If you enjoyed the original Pride and Prejudice, you might enjoy this as well, as it contains many direct passages (and essentially the same plot) from the original.  Even if you don’t like reading the classics, you’ll find this one hard to put down.

If you like this, you should try: Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters. Wicked and Mirror Mirror by Gregory Maguire. Fool by Christopher Moore. Goose Girl by Shannon Hale.

Recommended by: ZZ, Fairfield resident and avid reader

Chalice August 19, 2009

Title: Chalice

Author: Robin McKinley

Summary: Mirasol was a simple woods keeper, taking care of her bees and goats when members from the Circle, whom rule the land, came to her cottage. Mirsaol was to become the new Chalice of the Willowlands – meaning that it was now her job to listen to and heal the land.

But she is not the only new member of the Circle, for the Master had died as well, and his brother, a Fire Priest, is coming to fill in the position. But no one has ever heard of a Fire Priest coming back into the realm of humans, let along to become a Master. Together can the two keep the lands from dying? Or will a new Master have to take control? The story is compelling, a light-hearted fantasy, with an interesting heroine and a cast of characters whom you’ll grow to love.

Who will like this book?: Those seeking a light book with cute romance that’s not too intense. It flows well and is great for just before bed. There’s not too much action, but I thought it to be very well written and engaging.

If you like this, you should try: The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, The Secret Country by Jane Johnson,  and Fairest by Gail Carson Levine.

Recommended by:ZZ, Fairfield resident and avid reader

Leviathan August 12, 2009

Title: Leviathan

Author: Scott Westerfeld

Summary: The first book in a new series by the author of Uglies is a fast-paced alternate history of World War I. The nations of Europe are divided: The Clankers favor mechanical, steam-powered fighting machines and the Darwinists use ‘fabricated’ living beasts created from manipulated DNA as their weapons.

On the eve of war, we meet Aleksandar, a headstrong prince sent into hiding after his parent’s assassination, and Deryn, an ambitious girl who has disguised herself as a boy in order to join the air corps. When Deryn’s ship, the immense blue whale called Leviathan, crash lands near Aleksandar’s hideaway a fantastic adventure begins. This exhilarating story is great for all readers, and is a terrific introduction to the alternate history and steampunk genres.

Who will like this book?: Fans of this popular author. People who like alternate histories and gadget-filled fantasy.

If you like this, try this: The Mortal Instruments series by Philip Reeve.  The Temeraire books by Naomi Novik.

Recommended by: Nicole, Teen Librarian

Epic June 3, 2009

Title: Epic

Author: Conor Kostick

Summary:There is no violence in Erik’s world, only Epic. The global online multiplayer game allows people to create avatars to fight against one another and settle grievances. But Epic is more than just a game. It’s politics. Run by Central Allocations, a group of the richest, most powerful players, they lead a corrupt system that dictates the lives of everyone else.

Fed up with the difficulties his family faces, Erik creates a new type of character. He creates a girl named Cindella with only beauty instead of the typical fighter/elf/magician. But there’s something special about Cindella. When she starts getting attention from NPs (and not for her looks), Eric knows he’s onto something. Teaming up with his group of friends, they set off to fight dragons, find treasure, and slay the corrupt Central Allocations once and for all.

Who will like this book?: Boys and girls who enjoy discovering virtual worlds will find Epic to be a must-read. It’s packed full of adventure and has the interesting twist of a male player with a female avatar. The game system is well described but you don’t need to be a technician to understand the way this excellent sci-fi novel works.

If you like this, you should try: Saga, the sequel to Epic. Heir Apparent by Vivian Vande Velde, 1/2 Prince(manhwa), The 39 Clues series, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, The Walls of the Universeby Paul Melko, The Game by Dianna Wynne Jones

Recommended by:ZZ, Fairfield resident and avid reader