City of Ember

The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Lena Mayfleet and Doon Harrow are feeling the effects of being in a 241 year old underground city doomed to extinction because of diminishing electricity, food, and other supplies. Doon feels there might be something he can do to save the city. So, when Lena discovers a message in an old book in her grandmother's closet, they work together to decipher the message, which seems to outline a way out of the doomed city. Readers will be amazed at how resourceful Lena and Doon become as they try to save Ember.

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Beautiful Creatures

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ethan Waite has lived in Gatlin his whole life. This small town in South Carolina has all the characteristics of any small town--everyone knows everything about everyone else. Then Lena Duchannes comes to town. She is nothing like the other girls at Jackson High. Ethan is overcome by her beauty and uniqueness. But, he soon learns she is unique in more ways than just her looks. She is part of family of "Casters" that have supernatural powers. He is finally able to make sense of the frightening dreams that he keeps having--dreams about Lena Duchannes before he ever knew her. The reader soon learns that there is more than supernatural magic that keeps them together. Ethan and Lena have a love story that spans over time. The story should appeal to the romantic side of both girls and boys.

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Talking About Books

Our "Friends of the Library" group has had some interesting discussions lately. "A" lunch has been talking about the Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman. We have been discussing the various characters in the book--trying to decide if Silas is a vampire, or what in the world Miss Lepescu really is. Overall, the group has enjoyed this Newbery winning title.

"B" lunch has been discussing the characters in Maximum Ride: the Angel Experiment by James Patterson. Students were given the opportunity to tell about which character they liked the most and why. It was interesting to hear the reasoning behind their choices. Several students have already finished the book and are continuing on with the others in the series. Definitely a "Maximum Ride" for these students.

Gilda Joyce: Psychic Investigators

Gilda Joyce: Psychic Investigator by Jennifer Allison


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Although the cover makes this book look more like a book for elementary students, I thought the book was definitely a great middle school read. Gilda Joyce, is a spunky, refreshing, character. I truly enjoyed this book.

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