Invisible Girl by Mary Hanlon Stone

Fourteen-year-old Stephanie feels invisible, especially since her father doesn't really notice her and her mother only worries about her next drink. Eventually, Stephanie moves to California to live with family friends, but the transition proves difficult. Stephanie must find her own inner strength.

Personal Thoughts: Although Stephanie's situation is difficult, I enjoyed watching her develop into an independent young woman. She had to realize her own identity, not take it from the words and physical actions of her parents.

The Ranger's Apprentice Series by John Flanagan

In The Emperor of Nihon-Ja, the final book in John Flanagan's Ranger's Apprentice series, Horace, takes center stage, as he attempts to keep the Emperor of Nihon-Ja from being killed by others who want to take control. As soon as Will, Halt, Alyss, and Evanlyn learn that Horace needs help, they immediately leave to help. The battle to help the emperor proves to be one that relies upon courage, humor, strategy, and friendship.

Personal Thoughts: What a fantastic final adventure! Although Horace matures and proves himself in this novel, Will, Halt, Alyss, and Evanlyn are right next to him. As usual, Flanagan's novel did not disappoint. I'm only sad that the adventurous journey is over.

Countdown by Deborah Wiles

Growing up in 1962, eleven-year-old Franny Chapman has quite a lot to worry about. Personally, she must work through a betrayal by her best friend, her uncle's embarrassing actions, and her sister's secrets. On another note, Franny must also begin to understand the bigger picture, as President Kennedy announces that Russian missiles are in Cuba.

Personal Thoughts: While reading the book, Franny became a good friend. I loved being beside her throughout her coming-of-age journeys. In the novel, Wiles' included historical quotes, newspaper articles, and pictures, so I was immediately transported back in time. If you enjoy historical fiction, you will love this book!

Rapunzel's Revenge

Hale, Shannon, Dean Hale, and Nathan Hale. Rapunzel's Revenge. New York, New York: Bloomsbury, 2008.

Rapunzel’s Revenge, a graphic novel by Shannon and Dean Hale, along with the artwork of Nathan Hale, puts a new spin on the fairy tale of Rapunzel. Rapunzel, one of the fairy tales collected and retold by the Brothers Grimm, tells the story of a young girl taken away from her parents and imprisoned in a tower by Mother Gothel. Rapunzel’s Revenge takes the background story from the original fairy tale and adds several new twists, including a setting that resembles those found in Western stories.

As the story begins, Rapunzel lives under the watchful eye of her mother, Mother Gothel. The illustrations paint the beautiful villa and gardens. However, Rapunzel grows lonely and wants to know what is on the other side of the large wall that surrounds the villa. When finally looking over the wall, Rapunzel discovers a desolate land that craves plants and water and life, and after speaking with a lady in line for water, Rapunzel begins to realize that she is not the daughter of Mother Gothel. In fact, she believes she was stolen from her parents when she was a baby and forced to live with Mother Gothel. From this point, Rapunzel's adventures take off.

Personal Thoughts: I loved this graphic novel. Rapunzel is a strong character, and I really identified with her sarcasm. Although she finds herself in a horrible situation, she makes the most of her skills, talent, and intellect. I can't wait to read Calamity Jack!

Source Information: "Cover image for Rapunzel's revenge." TITLEWAVE Follett Library Resources. http://www.titlewave.com/cover?FLR=05894Y1&SID=3000e3694149d144133ec5a913a25369&type=cover (accessed November 13, 2010).

Hale, Shannon, Dean Hale, and Nathan Hale. Rapunzel's Revenge . New York, N.Y.: Bloomsbury, 2008.

Witch & Wizard

by James Patterson

Although they do not know it, Wisty and Whit Allgood have magical powers. Once they are arrested by the New Order, the teenagers realize they have powers that must be used to save the world from The One Who Is The One.

Personal Thoughts: Patterson's Witch & Wizard begins a new mystery series. I can't wait to read the next installment!

After Ever After

by Jordan Sonnenblick

Steven's and Jeffrey's stories continue in After Ever After. Jeffrey, now in the 8th grade, faces school, friends, and family, and constantly wants advice from his older brother Steven.

Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie

by Jordan Sonnenblick

Steven Alper, a typical eight-grader, spends his days playing the drums, dreaming about girls, and dealing with his parents and little brother. However, Steven's personal and family life change drastically when his younger brother, Jeffrey, is diagnosed with leukemia. Although devastated, Steven approaches this new challenge with humor and honesty.

Personal Thoughts: What a fantastic book! I was moved by Steven's loneliness once his family began to focus on Jeffrey's illness, understanding his feelings of hurt. Yet, I was amazed by his maturity.