The City of Ember

Title: The City of Ember
Author: Jeanne DuPrau
Published: May 2003
ISBN: 9780375822742
Other books in the series: People of Sparks, The Prophet of Yonwood, The Diamond of Darkhold
Characters: Lina and Doon
Awards: Kirkus Editor's Choice, Best Children's Book of the Year Selection
Genre: fiction, dystopia, sci-fi
Reading Level: 4th grade
Interest Level: 4th-7th grade
Summary: Hundreds of years ago the builders created the city of Ember to save the human race. The problem is that the city is starting to fail. The power is always going out and food supplies are running low. People are starting to fear that the power might go out and never turn back on, leaving them in complete darkness. Lina and Doon, two friends, have found something that might hold the key to saving Ember. Lina and Doon have found parts of an ancient document that they believe to be from the builders themselves. Lina and Doon believe it might be the way out. But where is the way out? Where does it lead? And is it okay to go there? The builders made Ember for a reason, what if they aren't suppose to leave?
Review: This is a great dystopian novel. It is almost like a treasure hunt as Lina and Doon try to figure out the directions left by the builders. The story keeps the reader interested as Lina and Doon find their way to the outside. The story leaves the reader on a bit of a cliffhanger as Lina and Doon find themselves outside for the first time in their lives. The book asks many questions about survival, about fear, humanity. When Lina and Doon make their way outside they find other people which makes the reader wonder if people survived why were people forced into the ground in the first place? Could they have survived on the surface.
Main themes: survival, dystopian
Read alikes: Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Why for tweens? The two leads are tweens themselves who become the heroes of Ember. The tweens will love the mystery as Lina and Doon figure out how to get out of Ember. Tweens will also enjoy that it is a series so they can continue the story.

Holes

Title: Holes

Author: Louis Sachar

ISBN: 9780439244190

Published: Aug 1998

Other books in the series:

Characters: Stanley Yelnats, Zero, Mr Sir, The Warden

Reading Level: 4th grade

Interest Level: 4th-6th grade

Summary: Stanley Yelnats is pretty sure he can blame his bad luck on his no good, dirty rotten pig steal great great grandfather. Stanley's bad luck gets him blamed for stealing a pair of famous athletes baseball shoes and sent off to Camp Green Lake . The thing is there isn't a lake at Camp Green Lake. What there is is a vast desert covered in holes. See at Camp Green Lake troubled kids are forced to dig a hole every day. Each hole needs to be 6ft wide and 6ft deep. They are told it's because this will build character but Stanley is pretty sure that the Warden, who runs the camp, is looking for something. They are under orders that if they find anything interesting while digging to report it immediately to Mr Sir. One day Stanley finds a gold tube with the initials K.B. on it. X-ray told Stanley he was to give it to him so X-Ray could pretend he found it and get the day off. The rest of the boys are then forced to dig where X-Ray claims he found the tube, for what they don't know. Stanley soon forges an unlikely friendship with Zero, who agrees to dig part of Stanley's hole everyday in exchange for Stanley teaching him to read.  But one day while out digging Zero flips out and runs into the desert. Stanley tries to steal the water truck and take after him but crashes it into a hole.  Stanley decides to take after Zero on foot. But how long can two kids survive in the desert? And what is it that Mr Sir and the Warden are looking for? 

Review: I really enjoy Sachar's story telling. He takes what seems like unrelated stories and unrelated characters and weaves them all into one cohesive story. The back and forth between the Stanley and Zero's story and then the old story of Kissing Kate is a nice transition in the story. It gives insight into the story and the history of Camp Green Lake. Sachar keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as Zero and Stanley go on a treasure hunt in the desert. 

Reader Annotation: Stanley Yelnats is at Camp Green Lake for a crime he didn't do. Now he is stuck digging holes in the desert but Stanley is convinced that there is something hidden in that desert.

Main Themes: treasure, family secrets, juvenile delinquents 

Read Alikes: The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin, Hoot by Carl Hiaasen

Why for tweens? Tweens will love this story of hidden treasure and family curses. They will get into the mystery of why the boys are digging holes.

Rapunzel's Revenge

Title: Rapunzel's Revenge
Author: Shannon and Dean Hale
ISBN: 9781599902883
Published: 2008
Other books in the series: Calamity Jack
Characters: Rapunzel, Jack
Genre: fiction, graphic novel
Reading Level: 3rd grade
Interest Level: 4th-7th grade
Plot Summary: Rapunzel lives in a grand villa with a woman she thinks is her mother, Gothel. Rapunzel is forbidden to leave the villa but one day she can't help herself and she climbs over the wasll to find that things are not so great outside her villa. Gothel has people working as slaves in the mines and Rapunzel finds a woman there who claims she is Rapunzel's real mother, that Gothel took Rapunzel from her as punishment for trying to steal lettuce to feed herself and Rapunzel. When she confronts Gothel about her real mother Gothel traps her inside a tall tree. Gothel has magical growing powers and creates a magical tree that is very tall and grows food inside to keep Rapunzel alive. But the tree isn't the only thing that is growing, Rapunzel's hair grows super long due to Gothel's magic. So Rapunzel uses her hair to escape from the tower.  While she is on the run she become unlikely friends with an outlaw named Jack and his goose. The two are on a mission to get to Gothel's Villa and get rid of her magical powers that have brought drought and hungry across the lands. Rapunzel is also determined to save her mother. It's amazing what a girl can do with a little hair.
Review: This story is a great twist on the fairy tale of Rapunzel. I like that Rapunzel is not a damsal in distress and instead is a girl who uses her hair as weapons and take matters into her own hands. There is also Jack from Jack the Beanstalk and his magical goose. I enjoy the wild west feel of the story, it fits Rapunzel's new persona. The story is action packed and fun to read. I also really enjoy that artwork of the story.
Reader's Annotation: This isn't your typical Rapunzel story. This one isn't waiting to be rescued, rather Rapunzel is after revenge.
Main Themes: fairy tales, outlaws, magic, family,
Read Alikes: Foiled by Jane Yolen, Calamity Jack by Shannon and Dean Hale
Why for Tweens? Tweens girls will love this new take charge outlaw version of Rapunzel. Boys will enjoy the graphic novel form and the non stop action and adventure.

The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe

Title:  The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
Author: C.S Lewis
Published: Jan 1950
ISBN: 9780006716778
Other books in the series: The Magician's Nephew, Prince Caspian, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, The Horse and His Boy, The Last Battle
Characters: Aslan, Lucy, Peter, Edmund, Susan, Mr Tummus, The White Witch
Awards: Hugo Award Nominee
Genre: fiction, fantasy
Reading Level: 7th grade
Interest Level: 4th-9th grade
Summary: 4 children living in London are sent to the English countryside to escape the dangers of World War II. While playing a game of hide and seek in the large house the Lucy stumbles across a magical wardrobe that takes her to a world called Narnia. While she is there she meets the very friendly and inviting Mr Tummus, who is half goat. It turns out that that Mr Tummus was so friendly because he planned on giving Lucy over to the White Witch. She rules Narnia and has made it winter, never spring. Mr Tummus decides he can't turn Lucy over to the witch and Lucy heads back home. When Lucy tries to tell her siblings about Narnia they don't believe her. Edmund, who has been the most harsh finds his way into Narnia and meets the White Witch, the Queen of Narnia. She gives him Turkish Delights and convinces him to bring the rest of his siblings to Narnia and take them to her. Edmund runs into into Lucy on his way out of Narnia and she is thrilled that he knows about Narnia. But when asked about Narnia by Peter and Susan, Edmund denies knowing anything. It is long after that all four children are hiding in the wardrobe and find themselves in Narnia.  Soon the children find themselves trying to rid Narnia of the evil witch and return Aslan the lion to his rightful spot as ruler. But will Edmund's promise to the witch ruin their plan?
Review: The Chronicles of Narnia is a classic series that has been loved by children for years. Lewis creates a magic world filled with wonders and amazing creatures and characters. He has children wishing that they too will find a wardrobe that leads to a magical world. The story focuses on good vs evil, friendship and loyalty. There is of course talking animals and lots of magic that help draw the reader into this magical world.  The book while written in 1950 still stands the test of time and will continue to hook new readers.
Reader Annotation: During a game of hide and seek Lucy stumbles across a magical wardrobe that leads to the world of Narnia. But this world is in danger from a powerful witch.
Main themes: good vs evil, siblings, magical worlds
Read alikes: The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien, The Emerald Atlas by John Stephens
Why for tweens? Tween fantasy readers will love this series. They will connect to with the 4 children as they become heroes in Narnia and battle evil.

Amulet, Vol. 1: The Stonekeeper

Title: Amulet the Stone Keeper

Author: Kazu Kibuishi

Published: Jan 2008

ISBN: 9780439846806

Genre: fiction, graphic novel, fantasy

Other books in the series: The Stonekeeper's Curse, The Cloud Searchers, The Last Council, Prince of the Elves

Characters: Emily, Navin, Silas

Reading Level: 2nd grade

Interest Level: 4th-8th grade

Awards: Goodreads Best Graphic Novels for Children

Summary: Emily and Navin lost their father in a tragic car accident, two years later the family moves to a house that they inherited from their great grandfather. Apparently their great grandfather Silas was a puzzle maker and disappeared in the house. While exploring the house Emily finds an amulet which she decides to wear. It is the amulet the tells her in the middle of the night that her family is in danger. When she awakes she finds that her mother is being taken by a tentacle monster. Emily and Navin fight the monster but somehow are transported to another world. The amulet helps them escape but they aren't able to save their mom. Instead the Amulet leads them to Silas who is on his deathbed. After Silas dies Emily is left with the power of the Amulet. Her and Navin are determined to save their mom with the help of Silas's helpers.

Review: This series is engrossing, I couldn't put it down. In fact I went through all the current books in the series in just a few days. Kibuishi writes a fantasy that is full of great characters and action. I love his drawings, he has created a beautiful world that you can't help but fall in love with. I really enjoy the supporting characters, like Miskit the robot bunny. Kibuishi has such a great imagination with his various characters and the world the he creates.

Reader annotation: Emily is the owner of a powerful Amulet that she hopes will help her get her mother who was taken into another world by a tentacle monster.

Main themes: family, adventure, quest

Read alikes: Mouse Guard by David Petersen

Why for Tweens? This action packed graphic novel fantasy will bring tweens in with it's great plot and stunning drawings. Of course the main character, Emily is a tween herself. She is forced to be a hero and take on big responsibilities after her mother is taken. This is a series that is full of great characters and a well driven plot that will have tweens excited for the next book.

The Graveyard Book

Title: The Graveyard Book
Author: Neil Gaiman
Published: Oct 2008
ISBN: 9780060530921
Other books in the series: N/A
Characters: Nobody Owens, the man Jack, Silas, Mrs. Owens
Awards: Newbery Award
Genre: fiction, fantasy
Reading Level: 5th grade
Interest Level: 5th-9th grade
Summary: Nobody or Bod Owens was just a baby when his whole family was killed by the mysterious the man Jack. Bod had wandered out of his crib and somehow wandered into the nearby graveyard. The ghosts wanting to protect little Bod took him under the protection of the graveyard to prevent the man Jack from finishing his deadly task. Bod is adopted by ghosts and then taught and cared for by the mysterious Silas, Bod's guardian. Things are quite strange when your home is graveyard. Bod has many adventures both in and outside of the graveyard but he also has the threat of the man Jack finding him and finishing his job. But can a living boy really live his life inside a graveyard?
Review: This is another wonderfully dark, imaginative story by Gaiman. Yes, the book is a bit creepy since it takes place in a graveyard but the ghosts are humorous and fun. Silas is a mystery that when you finally figure out he's a vampire it's a fun surprise. The story introduces the reader to all sorts of creature of the underworld like hellhounds, ghosts and vampires. The story shows how family is about love and togetherness, even if your family is ghosts.
Reader's Annotation: In the middle of the night a man named Jack killed Nobody Owen's family. Now Nobody is being raised by a graveyard.
Main themes: family, cemeteries, ghosts,
Read alikes: Liesel & Po by Lauren Oliver
Why for tweens? Tweens will love this creepy ghost story with a new spin. Bod get's into lots of adventures that at times are a bit scary but their isn't anything in the story that is too terrifying for tweens. It's is full of great characters that tweens will love like vampires, ghosts, and werewolves.

Bunnicula

Title: Bunnicula
Author: Deborah and James Howe
Published: March 1979
ISBN: 9781416928171
Other books in the series: Howliday Inn, The Celery Stalks at Midnight, Nighty-Nightmare, Return to Howliday Inn, Bunnicula Meets Edgar Allen Crow, 
Characters: Harold the dog, Chester the cat and Bunnicula the bunny
Awards: ALA notable children's books
Genre: fiction, fantasy, mystery
Reading Level: 3rd grade
Interest Level: 3rd-5th grade
Summary: There is a new addition to the Monroe household and Harold the dog and Chester that cat are not too happy about it. The Monroe's have brought home a new rabbit. But something is strange about this rabbit. Chester is convinced that the bunny is a vampire and considering that strange things keep happening around the house, like celery being sucked dry, Harold thinks Chester might be right. But how can they convince the Monroes that their new pet is a vampire bunny?
Review: This story is part mystery, part scary story, part hilarious story. I like that the story is told from the dog's point of view, they make it seem that Harold has written the story. Chester and Harold are funny and the book is filled with great puns and plays on vampire lore. Tweens that are fans of vampires and animal tales with enjoy this combination.
Reader's Annotation: Bunnicula seems like an innocent rabbit but Chester and Harold are convinced he is a vampire. How else do you explain the vegetables being sucked dry?
Main themes: vampires, animal stories, mystery
Read alikes: The Buddy Files by Dori Butler
Why for tweens? Tweens love animal stories and they will enjoy this story and it's witty humor.

The Mouse and the Motorcycle

Title: The Mouse and the Motorcycle
Author: Beverly Cleary
Published: Aug 1990, originally 1965
ISBN: 9780380709243
Other books in the series: Runaway Ralph, Ralph S. Mouse
Characters: Ralph, Keith
Awards: Nene Award
Genre: fiction, fantasy
Reading Level: 5th grade
Interest Level: 3rd-5th grade
Summary: Ralph is a mouse who lives in an inn and can't seem to stay out of trouble. One day a young boy named Keith comes to stay at the inn and brings with him his toy motorcycle. Ralph stumbles upon the motorcycle and can't help but ride it and ends up crashing the motorcycle into the trash bin. Thankfully the boy Keith finds Ralph and makes a deal with him. Keith tells Ralph he can ride the motorcycle but only if he takes care of it. Ralph can't believe how amazing having a motorcycle is and loves his new friend Keith. But when Keith gets sick Ralph becomes the only one who can save him.
Review: This is such a sweet and imaginative story. Ralph is reckless but likable and comes to Keith's aid when he needs him most. The story is a classic for a reason. Readers loves the adventures of Ralph the mouse. Who wouldn't love a motorcycle riding mouse? Ralph gets in trouble with his mom and despite being a mouse is full of personality that tweens can connect to. It's a quick and fun read that leaves the reader happy at the end.
Reader's Annotation: Ralph is a bit of a rebellious mouse and it only get's worse when he finds a motorcycle.
Main themes: friendship, adventure, motorcycles
Read alikes: The Tale of Despereaux 
Why for tweens? Tweens will love this animal fantasy and the rebellious mouse Ralph. This is a fun book that they can get lost in and enjoy. It's a great feel good story that will appeal to reluctant tween readers.

Stargirl

Title: Stargirl
Author: Jerry Spinelli
Published: Aug 2000
ISBN: 9780439488402
Other books in the series: Love, Stargirl
Characters: Leo, Stargirl
Awards: Charlotte Award, Iowa Teen Award, YALSA Best Books for Teens
Genre: fiction, romance
Reading Level: 3rd grade
Interest Level: 5th-9th grade
Summary: Stargirl is a strange girl that makes quite the entrance at Mica High School. She doesn't seem to fit in with her crazy ways but nothing seems to faze Stargirl. Leo falls for Stargirl and all her crazy antics. The school seems to embrace Stargirl and she even becomes a cheerleader. All seems well until the school turns on Stargirl. Then Leo who always loved Stargirl and her unique personality feels the pressure to change her. Leo is caught trying to let Stargirl be herself and fitting in at school.
Review: This is a great story of first loves, identity, bullying and growing up. Stargirl is such a unique and fun character that you can't help but love her. But Stargirl doesn't fit into the mold of what is a normal high school student. You can't help but feel sorry for her as the whole school starts to turn on her. Leo is caught in the middle. He has to choose between allowing Stargirl to be herself or telling her to change. The books is wonderful first romance. It never gets into anything too mature, but instead focuses on the feeling of first love, pressures from your peers and identity. The fact that the story is told from a male point of view makes the story not too mushy and could draw in young male readers.
Reader's Annotation: Stargirl is weird and quirky and nothing Leo has ever seen before and he's in love with her.
Main themes: identity, love, high school, bullying
Read alikes: The Boyfriend List by E. Lockhart
Why for tweens? This book has great appeal to older tweens who may be experiencing their first loves or dealing with questions of identity. They may see that Stargirl wasn't afraid to be who she was even after her classmates turned on her. The story is a good introduction to romance and because it doesn't venture into mature content it's a very sweet romance for tweens who aren't ready for the more mature romances in YA.

Coraline

Title: Coraline
Author: Neil Gaiman
ISBN: 9780061139376
Published: July 2002
Awards: Hugo Award, Nebula Award, Bram Stroker Award
Genre: fiction, fantasy, scary stories, horror, suspense
Characters: Coraline, other mother
Reading Level: 5th grade
Interest Level: 5th-8th grade
Plot Summary: Coraline recently moved to Oregon from Michigan with her parents. Both her parents are obsessed with their work and don't have much time for Coraline. The Pink Palace Apartments don't have any other children and Coraline isn't too thrilled with the rainy weather. The only child that is around is the grandson of the owner of the Pink Palace, who Coraline isn't really too found of. Coraline's parents encourage her to explore the new home in an effort to get Coraline out of their hair. While exploring Coraline finds a mysterious door that's entrance has been bricked over. When Coraline goes to sleep that night she is mysteriously drawn to the door but this time when she opens it, it leads to another world. This world is just like hers except that her parents are friendly and fun but everyone has buttons for eyes. Coraline things she has found the parents she has always wanted but when they ask Coraline to stay with them forever Coraline feels like her "other" parents are hiding a dark secret. Coraline may discover the secret too late.
Review: Neil Gaiman is a master storyteller. He creates a dark story that has you on the edge of your seat till the end. It's a chilling story that is both creepy and compelling. There is some quirky humor that lightens the mood and feeling of the story. Tweens love scary stories and this will appeal to all those ghost story fans. Despite being creepy the story isn't violent or risque, it's a great suspense story for tweens. Gaiman is able to create these dark fantasies that are full of magic and mystery.
Reader's Annotation: Coraline wishes her parents were different. Then when she finds a tunnel to another world and new parents Coraline can't help but wonder why it seems too good to be true.
Main Themes: parallel universe, magic, family, suspense, ghosts
Read Alikes: Doll Bones by Holly Black
Why for Tweens? Tweens love scary ghost stories and Gaiman's suspenseful story will grab their attention. Coraline has to save her parents and become the hero.

The Giver

Title: The Giver
Author: Lois Lowry
ISBN: 978-0-547-42477-4
Published: 2011, originally 1993
Genre: fiction, dystopia
Characters: Jonas, The Giver, Gabriel
Other books in the series: Gathering Blue, Messenger, Sons
Awards: Newbery Award
Reading Level: 6th grade
Interest Level: 6-9th grade
Plot Summary: Jonas lives in a society with very strict rules of conduct and behavior. At a certain age they are allowed certain privileges. Jonas has reached the age that he will be given his assignment. Each child when they reach a certain age are give their job assignments after careful observation. Jonas has been assigned a job that few are given, one with great stature and pride. Jonas is to be a recorder. The last recorder, who now no one is to speak of was released. People are released, or so they are told into another world. What Jonas doesn't know is that being released is not what he told, instead is something quite horrific. Jonas is to be trained by a very old man, the current recorder. Jonas doesn't really know what a recorder does, he just knows he is responsible for holding memories and information. But what Jonas learns may change the way he sees his society and their way of life. Will Jonas be able to live in this world after he learns all the secrets?
Review: This classic is a great dystopian novel for younger readers. There are some disturbing scenes in the story, especially the scene in which Jonas' father kills the newborn baby. But that scene really shows just how disturbing the society in which Jonas lives has become. The story poses a lot of questions on human nature, suffering, emotions and choice. You also see Jonas grow from an innocent child to an adolescent that sees the faults and horrors of his society. He is forced to make very difficult choices and leave his family behind in order to save baby Gabriel. The story examines what it is that makes us human and how important emotions, even the hard ones, are important. The society in the story live without emotions and color and really have no choice. They do this to protect people from pain but as Jonas learns pain is a part of life.
Reader's Annotation: Jonas lives without hunger, without pain and without fear. When he is assigned the job of recorder Jonas doesn't know what to expect. What he finds is the dark secrets his society tries to hide.
Main Themes: emotions, dystopian, death, family
Read Alikes: Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Why for Tweens? This has appeal to older or more mature tweens due to it's content. But the story does feature a young boy who is making his way into adulthood. Jonas also starts to question his parents and how things work in his society. This may encourage tweens to examine their own culture and society.

Matilda

Title: Matilda 
Author: Roald Dahl
ISBN: 

Title: Matilda 
Author: Roald Dahl
ISBN: 9780141301068
Published: Dec 1988
Awards: Awards for Best Read Aloud
Genre: fiction, humor
Characters: Matilda, Mrs Phelps, Miss Honey, Trunchbull
Reading Level: 5th grade
Interest Level: 4th-6th grade
Plot Summary: Matilda is little girl who is a genius. She is able to do large math problems in her head and even taught herself to read. Despite this her parents think Matilda is a burden and prefer to ignore their daughter. They can't understand why Matilda would rather read then watch TV like the rest of the family. Matilda finds solace at the library where the librarian, recognizing Matilda's intelligence, has her reading books that speak to Matilda's imagination and love of literature. Matilda soon attends school and is lucky enough to have the sweet and wonderful Miss Honey for a teacher. What Matilda isn't so lucky to have is the evil and wicked headmistress Trunchbull. Matilda soon discovers that she isn't just smart but her mind give her magical powers.
Review: Matilda is a classic story that has stood the test of time. Dahl has huge appeal to tweens with his witty humor and magical realism. Readers will love Matilda and her intelligence. The cruelty of Trunchbull and Matilda's parents makes the reader want Matilda to triumph even more. It's a wonderful feeling when Matilda is finally adopted by Miss Honey. Even though Dahl does have some adults as vilians he does include characters like Mrs Phelps and Miss Honey in the story who are caring adults who want to help Matilda. While most readers will never experience adults with such cruelty I think it shows that even a small and quiet kid like Matilda can stand up to evil.
Reader's Annotation: Matilda is not just smart, she is a genius. But her parents would rather she watch TV than read a book. But soon Matilda finds that her mind is more powerful than she thought.
Main Themes: family, school, good vs evil, magic
Read Alikes: Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar
Why for Tweens? Any tween that has ever had a mean teacher will be cheering for Matilda to take down the evil Trunchbull. The books shows how despite being small and young, Matilda is able to make a difference. The book also features great humor and wit that tweens will love.

Sideways Stories for Wayside School

Title: Sideways Stories from Wayside School
Author: Louis Sachar
Published: Aug. 1993
ISBN: 9780747571773
Genre: fiction, humor
Other books in the series: Wayside School is Falling Down, Wayside School Gets a Little Stranger, Sideways Arithmetic from Wayside School 
Reading Level: 2nd grade
Interest Level: 3rd-5th grade
Summary: Wayside school is a school like non-other. The school was built going up, with one classroom on top of another instead of all being on one floor. This means that Wayside school towers at  30 stories high. This book is a collection of stories about each of the students from the classroom on the 30th floor. From dead rats to teachers who turn children into apples this book has it all. Things are strange at Wayside School but this strangeness makes for hilarious stories.
Review: Sachar knows and understands the humor of tweens and this book will have them laughing and wanting more. The stories in the book are off the wall and outrageous but Sachar pulls them off. I mean who else could write about a dead rat trying to pass as a new student? The book is a short quick read that will have huge appeal to reluctant readers. They will want to see what the kids on the 30th floor are up to. I enjoy that inclusion of sketches that add to the storyline. Of course at the center of it all is the recess teacher who seems to be the only somewhat sane person in the whole building. I like that this is a series because I think kids will want to read more about the crazy Wayside school.
Reader's Annotation: Wayside school was built 30 stories high, but that isn't the weirdest part about this school.
Main themes: school, humor
Read Alikes: Matilda Roald Dahl
Why for Tweens? This is a hilarious look at a wacky school that has humor that appeals right to tweens. It never gets too serious and is great for tweens who want a light, funny and quick read.

The Neverendering Story

Title: The Neverending Story
Author: Michael Ende
ISBN: 97805254577589
Published: Oct 1983
Genre: fiction, fantasy
Characters: Bastian, Atreyu, Moonchild, Falkor
Reading Level: 6th grade
Interest Level: 4th-8th grade
Plot Summary: Bastian is a young boy who struggles with fitting in at school and ever since his mother died he cant seem to get attention from his father. To deal with all this Bastian fills his life with books. One day while hiding from some school bullies, Bastian finds a book in an antique book store. Bastian steals the book called The Neverending Story and breaks into his school's attic to read his book. The book tells the story of a land called Fantastica that is trying to save it's world from a dark power called The Nothing. As the world disappears into the dark nothing the child empress is growing very sick and will die if something isn't done to stop The Nothing. A young warrior called Atreyu is called on to save Fantastica. He must travel across the world to find a cure for the empress and he meets amazing creatures along the way. What Bastian doesn't realize is that this isn't just a story, it's a really place and Fantastica needs his help. But will Bastian have the courage to step up and save this fantasy world?
Review: This is wonderful classic fantasy that will appeal to young fantasy fans. The story has amazing characters like the warrior Atreyu and Falkor the luck dragon. I think what makes this story unique is that Bastian the reader starts as just an observer and then is brought into the story. He becomes the hero by naming the princess. This idea that the reader can become part of the story is something that readers will enjoy. They have probably wanted to be apart of many of the stories they read. There is also the theme of good vs evil with the fight against The Nothing. It shows the importance of imagination, even as you grow up.
Reader's Annotation: Bastian starts reading The Neverending Story, about a magical world that is threatened by The Nothing. What he doesn't know is that he is apart of the story.
Main Themes: quests, magic, adventure, good vs evil
Read Alikes: Peter Pan by J.M Barrie, The Red Pyramid Rick Riordan
Why for Tweens? Tweens love to lose themselves in a good fantasy and this book has it all. From dragons to warriors it's a fantasy with high appeal to tween readers. It also features a shy tween, Bastian who must become part of the story to save his fantasy world. Tweens will see that they too can be important and make a difference.

Smile

Title: Smile
Author: Raina Telgemeier
ISBN: 9780545132053
Published: Feb 2010
Characters: Raina
Award: Eisner Award for Best Publication for Tens, Goodreads Choice Award Nominee
Reader's Annotation: Middle school is bad enough but when Raina knocks out her 2 front teeth and is forced to wear braces things go from bad to worse. Will she ever smile again?
Genre: fiction, graphic novel
Reading Level: 3rd grade
Interest Level: 5th-9th grade
Plot Summary: Smile is the story of how the author lost her two front teeth when she was 12 and then had to spend years going through embarrassing and sometimes painful procedures to fix her smile. Raina was racing one of her friends when she tripped and fell and knocked out her two front teeth. Despite getting them placed back in her teeth started to die and they had to be removed. This begins a long process of fake teeth, pulled teeth, braces, retainers and being ashamed of her smile. The story also tracks Raina as she struggles with school, fitting in and her childhood friends picking on her and no longer being supportive friends. Having braces is hard enough, but Raina didn't plan on losing her friends as well. Now Raina feels like she has nothing to smile about.
Review: I was able to relate to this story due to my own years of wearing braces and feeling awkward through most of middle school. I think it also helps that the author grew up around the same time that I did, so I enjoyed the references to the Little Mermaid and other pop culture things from my childhood. But I still think that tweens can connect to this story because it touches on universal tween problems. Raina struggles with her childhood friendships as her circle of friends become more like frienemies. She has crushes on boys, feels awkward and alone. She also works through her problems and is able to find friends she relates to and by the end of the story she can even smile. It's a great story for anyone who has ever had braces or felt socially awkward.
Reader's Annotation: Middle school is bad enough but when Raina knocks out her 2 front teeth and is forced to wear braces things go from bad to worse. Will she ever smile again?
Main Themes: growing up, self-confidence, friendship
Read Alikes: Anya's Ghost by Vera Brosgol
Why for Tweens? This book really addresses many feelings and themes that tweens can relate to like fitting in, making friends and growing up.

The Bad Beginning

Title: A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning
Author: Lemony Snicket
Published: Sept. 1999
ISBN: 9780439206471
Genre: fiction, mystery
Other books in the series: This is a 13 book series
Characters: Violet, Klaus, Sunny, Count Olaf
Reading Level: 6th grade
Interest Level: 4th-7th grade
Summary: The Beaudelaire children; Violet, Klaus and Sunny, lost their parents in a deadly fire. With no close family the orphaned children are sent to live with a distant cousin, Count Olaf. Count Olaf is obsessed with getting his hands on the Beaudelaire children's fortune. Unfortunately for him the fortune is protected until Violet turns 18. Upon this discovery Olaf stops treating the children with care and instead mistreats them. Olaf only seems to care about his acting troupe and forces the children to complete a list of chores like make a fancy dinner for his acting friends. The children try to get help but no one seems to care. It also seems that Olaf is hiding in a secret and it plotting to get the children's protected fortune.
Review: The story has a dark sense of humour that isn't often found in children's books. The children are extremely smart and crafty, even baby sunny. There is a lot of great vocabulary in the book that will challenge a young reader but the vocabulary doesn't bog down the story. There is also a lot of mystery in the story with various clues hinting to a much larger mystery. The story is the first in a long series that continues it's dark, mysterious and witty theme. While some may argue that it's too dark for children I think that children will enjoy the dark humor. The author tries to continue this air of mystery by writing under a pseudonym. He also warns readers to put down the book and stop reading if they don't want to read a sad, dark story. I think this warning will actually entice readers to read on, to find out why the book is dark. Overall it's a wonderful and unique series.
Reader's Annotation: The Beaudelaire Orphans are forced to live with Count Olaf who will stop at nothing to get their fortune.
Main Themes: family, secret societies, orphans
Read Alikes: The Mysterious Howling by Maryrose Wood
Why for Tweens? This dark mystery appeals to tweens because of it's mysterious plot line and humor. Two of the main characters are also tweens who are not only very smart but crafty as well.

11 Birthdays

Title: 11 Birthdays
Author: Wendy Mass
ISBN: 9780545052399
Published: Jan 2009
Genre: fiction
Other books in the Series: Finally, 13 Gifts
Characters: Amanda and Leo
Reading Level: 4th grade
Interest Level: 3rd-6th grade
Plot Summary: Amanda and her best friend Leo have spent every birthday together, that is until their 11th birthday. Having had an argument after their 10th birthday, Amanda and Leo have spent the last year at odds. Despite tradition the two are having separate birthdays. It seems nothing is going right on the day of Amanda's birthday. When the terrible day is finally over Amanda can't wait to put it behind her. But when Amanda awakes she finds that it is her birthday, again. It seems that Amanda is reliving her distaster of a birthday over and over again. Will Amanda be 11 forever? Or is there a way to finally put this day behind her.
Review: The story seems to capture the feelings, thoughts and insecurities of an 11 year old so well. Amanda and Leo's fractured friendship is one that readers can relate to. The story has a very realistic feel with a dab of fantasy as Amanda and Leo continue to live the same day over and over again. I like that as a reader you are able to see Amanda learn from her mistakes. Leo and Amanda are able to work through their problems to finally stop living their 11th birthdays over again. It's a quick and fun read that has a great lesson.
Reader's Annotation: Amanda is turning 11 and her birthday is a disaster. So when the day is finally over she is relieved for it to be over but when she awakes it is still her 11th birthday, again.
Main Themes: friendship, forgiveness
Read Alikes: It's the First Day of School Forever by R.L Stine
Why for Tweens? The book is a great mix of realism and fantasy that will appeal to tweens. It also has some themes that tweens can relate to. As Amanda struggles to recover her friendship with Leo and fit in at school. The story is an honest look at a young tweens struggles with a bit of fun and whimsy thrown in.

Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone

Title: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Author: J.K Rowling
ISBN: 9780439554930
Published: Sept. 1998
Genre: fiction, fantasy
Awards: British Book Award for Children's Book of the Year
Other Books in the Series: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Characters: Harry Potter, Ron Weasly, Hermoine Granger, Dumbledore, Hagrid
Reading Level: 6th grade
Interest Level: 4th-7th grade
Plot Summary: Harry's parents died when he was just a baby. Because of this Harry is living with his aunt and uncle who force Harry to live underneath the stairs. It's not a great life for hairy but just before his 11th birthday strange letters keep showing up for Harry that his aunt and uncle quickly take from Harry. Then one night a strange man shows and tells Harry that he has been invited to attend Hogwarts, a school for wizards. Harry soon learns that his parents were wizards themselves and we're killed by the most feared wizard Voldemort. It also seems that Harry survived the attack but has a lightening bolt scar on his forehead as proof. Harry is soon whisked out to Hogwarts where the magical world of wizards is shown to him. But it seems that something dark is threatening the wizard world and it may just be the man who killed Harry's parents.
Review: Harry Potter is now considered a classic, having launched a whole new generation of readers. Rowling creates a beautiful and magical world that a reader just finds themselves enwrapped in. The characters are relatable and lovable despite being magical wizards. Readers will want to be wizards themselves. Harry, while young, faces terrifying challenges and yet thanks to love, friendship and wit he is able to come out on top. It really is a wonderful story that will have the reader on the edge of their seat and excited to read more. The series does grow in maturity which is important to keep in mind when handing it to a young reader. Some of the later books in the series may be to scary or intense for younger readers. But the first book in the series is a wonderful introduction to the magical world of Harry Potter.
Reader's Annotation: Forced to live with his aunt and uncle after the death of his parents, Harry Potter never imagined that his life would be anything magical. Then, before his 11th birthday Harry found out he was a wizard and his world changed.
Main Themes: friendship, magic, good vs evil
Read Alikes: Midnight for Charlie Brown by Jenny Nimmo
Why for Tweens? Harry Potter will connect with tweens who fantasize about living in a magical world. There is also the fact that Harry Potter grows a bit in every book and tweens can really grow with this series as Harry faces not only the challenges of being a tween but also of being a magical wizard fighting evil.

Maniac Magee

Title: Maniac Magee
Author: Jerry Spinelli
ISBN: 9780590452038
Published: April 2002
Genre: fiction
Awards: Newbery Medal
Characters: Jeffrey "Maniac" Magee
Reading Level: 5th grade
Interest Level: 4th-8th grade
Awards: Newbery Award
Plot Summary: Jeffrey Magee has two loving parents but when they are killed in an accident Jeffrey is forced to live with his aunt and uncle. After living with his aunt and uncle and their fighting for eight years Jeffrey can't take it anymore and runs away. Jeffrey runs and runs until he finds himself in a town where the blacks live on one side and the whites on the other. Jeffrey soon becomes known as Maniac Magee and moves in with a black family. Despite being white Jeffrey doesn't really understand the racial issues that plague the town. But when the family that took him in starts getting harassed Maniac runs away again. But Maniac is slowly becoming a legend in the town to both whites and blacks. Can one person change the attitude and behavior of a whole town? Well, if your name is Maniac Magee you just might.
Review: This book tackles some heavy issues like death, homelessness, racism and prejudice. But Spinelli doesn't allow these tough issues to bring down the story or come off as preachy. Instead the story is fun and moving and gripping. Maniac Magee seems to adjust to every situation and his acceptance of everyone and all types of situations shows just how odd racism and prejudice is. Magee can't understand the racism, he just sees all the things that makes everyone the same instead of different. He sees a caring family that is willing to take him and care for him, not that they are a different color than him. Magee also sheds the light on child homelessness. While Magee seems to do okay at times, it is heartbreaking to see him forced to sleep with the animals. I think the book brings up some great topics for discussion and does it in a fun and entertaining way.
Reader's Annotation: Jeffrey Magee lost his parents and can't stand living with his aunt and uncle. So one day Jeffery starts running and becomes the legend, Maniac Magee.
Main Themes: homelessness, racism, friendship, family
Read Alikes: Holes by Louis Sachar, Okay for Now by Gary Schmidt
Why for Tweens? Jeffrey is a tween who faces many challenges but he does so with determination and an innocence that tweens can relate to. It will highlight some issues of racism that some tweens may not be aware of. This may also help some tweens understand homelessness and death.

Breaking Stalin's Nose

Title: Breaking Stalin's Nose
Author: Eugene Yelchin
ISBN: 9780805092165
Published: Sept. 2011
Genre: fiction, historical fiction
Characters: Sasha
Reading Level: 3rd grade
Interest Level: 3rd-6th grade
Awards: Newbery Honor book
Plot Summary: Sasha is a young boy growing up under Stalin's reign in the Soviet Union. Sasha lives with his father in a small apartment with many other families, like most good communists. Sasha is a dedicated communist and can't wait to become part of the Young Pioneers. But late one night Sasha's father is taken by the Soviet police and Sasha is now without a family and a home. Sasha is convinced that it must be some mistake and that his father will be released, after all Stalin wouldn't arrest an innocent man? Sasha shows up to school the next day thinking his dad will be released. His class is practicing for the Young Pioneer assembly and Sasha has been assigned the important job of carrying the banner. As Sasha is taking the banner back he accidentally breaks the nose of a statue of beloved Stalin. Sasha can't believe what he has done and tries to hide from his mistake. It turns out that his mistake is enough to get him kicked out of the Young Pioneers despite his dedication. Sasha soon realizes that maybe something isn't right with Stalin's regime.
Review: The story addresses some very serious subject matter without getting too dark. It shows just how easily citizens where convinced into believing the Stalinist regime despite what was really going on. Sasha is an example of a child struggling to go against what he has always believed. It's especially tragic when he finally realizes that his mother was killed, which is not the story his father told him. Because the story is told from the viewpoint of Sasha it comes across as innocent and nieve instead of overly dark and tragic.
Reader's Annotation: Sasha is on his way to being one of Stalin's Young Pioneers when his father is taken by the Soviet Police. Then just when things couldn't get worse Sasha knocks the nose of a Stalin statue.
Main Themes: government, family, Soviet Union
Read Alikes: The Wall by Peter Sis
Why for Tweens? Tweens are too young to know about Stalin and the Soviet Union. This book is a great introduction to this historical time period and how these people where controlled and manipulated by Stalin and his communist regime. Because the story is told from young Sasha' viewpoint tween readers can connect to his story and understand the struggles he goes through.

Hoot

Title: Hoot
Author: Carl Hiaasen
ISBN: 9780440421702
Published: May 2004
Genre: fiction
Characters: Roy, Mullet Fingers, Beatrice, Officer Delinko
Reading Level: 4th grade
Interest Level: 4th-8th grade
Award: Newbery Honor book
Plot Summary: Roy is new to Florida and isn't too happy about having to Montana for his new home. Roy has fallen prey to the school bully but it's because of this bully that Roy discovers the running boy. One day while almost being strangled on the busy Roy sees a strange boy running barefoot alongside the bus. Roy has to know who this boy is and chases after him. Roy soon discovers that the boy, who calls himself Mullet Fingers is on a quest to save some owls. It seems that the new Mama's Pancake house site is home to burrowing owls. The pancake company doesn't seem to care about the owls but that doesn't stop Mullet Fingers from pulling pranks to stop the bulldozing of the property. But Roy isn't sure if he can keep Mullet Fingers secret especially when the police become involved. But how else can he save the owls?
Review: Hoot is funny and thought provoking. I enjoy Hiaasen's humour throughout the story. Who doesn't find a kid putting alligators in a port a potty funny? There is also the bumbling cop who despite his best efforts can't seem to catch the vandal. Roy is lucky to have supportive and loving parents, but Hiaasen shows how not every kid is as lucky. Hiaasen shows just how a kid's parents can influence their personality and impact their life. At the heart of the story is the owls. The book has a conservation message without being to preachy. You find yourself cheering for the owls and hoping that Roy and Mullet Fingers can save them. I think the story will help tweens become more environmental conscience and maybe see that they even though they are a kid they can still make a difference. But I appreciate that Hiaasen doesn't just have the kids do everything on their own. The owls are saved thanks to the help of some adults, like Roy's father. It shows kids that adults can be helpful.
Reader's Annotation: Roy isn't too thrilled about moving to Florida but soon he finds himself on a quest to save some owls from a pancake company.
Main Themes: environmentalism, friendship, bullying
Read Alikes: Holes by Louis Sachar
Why for Tweens? Roy is appealing to tweens because of his issues of dealing with bullying and moving. He is also passionate about saving the owls and shows how despite being young Roy is able to make a difference. Hiaasen's humour is also appealing to tweens. The juvenile pranks pulled by Mullet Fingers are not very dangerous but rather humorous.

The Mysterious Howling

Title: The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: The Mysterious Howling
Author: Maryrose Wood
ISBN: 9780061791055
Published: Feb 2010
Genre: fiction, mystery
Other books in the series: The Hidden Gallery, The Unseen Gues
Characters: Penelope Lumley, Alexander, Cassiopeia, Beowolf, Lord Ashton
Reading Level:  6th grade
Interest Level: 4th-7th grade
Plot Summary: Miss Penelope Lumley is recent graduate of the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females. Much to her surprise Penelope finds herself a job as the governess for 3 children at the beautiful and rich Ashton Place. Though when Penelope gets to Ashton Place she is surprised by what she finds. She doesn't find 3 children in the nursery but instead she finds the 3 children huddled in the barn, howling. Apparently the 3 children were found in the woods having been raised by wolves. It is now Penelope's job to teach this children latin, french and proper etiquette. But how can you teach children latin when they would rather be chasing squirrels and howling into the night. Despite having made great strides with the children Penelope soon learns that she has to have the children presentable for the Christmas ball. But it seems someone is out to sabotage her efforts.
Review: This story is a combination of Mary Poppins and A Series of Unfortunate Events. Penelope is only 15 but is wise beyond her years and very mature. I enjoy seeing her very prim and proper etiquette against her 3 very unruly children. The story is funny with the children chasing squirrels and howling. But Wood combines this humor with introductions to Latin and French words. There is also a great element of mystery in the story. Why were the children in the woods? Where did the squirrel come from at the party? And why take these children in when it seems that neither parent is too thrilled to have them. The book leaves the reader with more questions than answers but it will make you want to read the next book! The children despite their odd behavior are adorable and funny. They really try their best to please their governess and do things in their own unique way.
Reader's Annotation: Miss Penelope Lumley never thought her first governess job would include carrying for 3 children who behave more like wolves than children. How will she ever make them presentable for society?
Main Themes: orphans, mystery, governess
Read Alikes: The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket, The Willoughbys Lois Lowry
Why for Tweens? This book combines mystery and wit that tweens will love. The book will also challenge their vocabulary with Penelope's over the top vocabulary.

Bridge to Terabithia

Title: Bridge to Terabithia
Author: Katherine Paterson
ISBN: 9780439366779
Published: Oct. 1977
Awards: Newbery Award
Genre: fiction
Reading Level: 5th grade
Interest Level: 4th-8th grade
Plot Summary: Jesse Aarons loves to run and plans on being the fatest kid in his grade. But what he doesn't expect is Leslie Burke. Leslie is his new neighbor, who is from the big city. She also happens to be a very fast runner, much to many of the boys dismay. Jesse soon finds a new friend in Leslie. The two create an imaginary world called Terabithia that they escape to. Jesse learns about all sorts of new things from Leslie's family. Everything from art to music. But things take a turn for the worse when tragedy strikes. Jesse soon learns that letting go is not an easy thing to do and that you can't escape reality in an imaginary world.
Review: Paterson's award winning book lives up to it's reputation. The story is touching and emotional. It shows how despite having to grow up Jesse and Leslie still yearn to escape to their imaginary world. The two enjoy a wonderful friendship in their imaginary world but it's cut short by Leslie's death. Jesse's grief is honesty and raw. It really shows the struggle that children face as they deal with tragedy and growing up. Jesse shows his growth and his healing when he builds the bridge over the water and then invites his younger sister to Terabithia. The story gives insights into dealing with loss that is very honest and emotional. It also shows that imagination can help heal.
Reader's Annotation: Jesse and his neighbor Leslie have a magical world of Terabithia but when tragedy hits things might lose their magic.
Main Themes: friendship, death, loss
Read Alikes: Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu
Why for Tweens? Both the main characters show how tweens are still trying to live in a land of make believe like they did in their childhood and the present harsh reality. Jesse deals with the loss of a friend which some tweens may face or they may face the loss of a loved one. It's a part of growing up and this story can help some tweens deal with grief and see that you can move on despite a tragedy.

Zita the Spacegirl

Title: Zita the Spacegirl
Author: Ben Hatke
ISBN: 9781596434462
Published: Feb 2010
Genre: fiction, graphic novel, fantasy
Characters: Zita, Joseph, Piper, Mouse, Randy,One
Reading Level: 2nd grade
Interest Level: 2-5th grade
Plot Summary: Zita had taken Joseph's notebook when she came across a large crater and a strange red button. Curious about how the button the got there and what it does, Zita pushes the button and a some strange creature reaches out and grabs Joseph and sucking him into another dimension. Frightened Zita takes off but then realizes she must save Joseph. Zita pushes the button again and finds herself on some strange planet. The planet is headed for it's ultimate demise as a meteor is heading straight for it but Zita is only concerned with finding the creature that took Joseph and rescuing him. Zita soon finds herself some unlikely alien allies and tries to find Joseph and maybe save this strange planet from doom.
Review: This graphic is a fun and action packed story with great characters. Zita is determined to save Joseph and despite being on a strange planet far from home she shows great bravery and determination. She has a great heart and the characters that join her are all a bit flawed and strange and unlikely heroes themselves but they seem to each help Zita along the way. Along with the action and fun is some humor. This is the first in a series, which is good since it leaves with not much of a ending. I can't wait to read the rest of the series and see what else Zita gets herself into.
Reader's Annotation: Zita is just a normal girl till one day she is zapped onto another planet to save her friend. But what happens when Zita has to save this strange planet too?
Main Themes: loyalty, bravery, friendship, quests
Read Alikes: Rapunzel's Revenge by Shannon and Dean Hale
Why for Tweens? Zita is a young character with lots of spunk and determination that tweens will love. They will enjoy the humor and all the crazy creatures on the planet as well as the non-stop action as Zita tries to save her friend and the planet.

Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword

Title: Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword
Author: Barry Deutsch
ISBN: 9781419706196
Published: 2010
Characters: Mirka, Fruma, Zindel
Genre: fiction, graphic novel
Reading Level: 2nd grade
Interest Level: 3rd-7th grade
Plot Summary: Mirka is an 11 year old Orthodox Jewish girl who is being raised by her stepmother Fruma. But Mirka has a hard time staying out of trouble and bringing shame to her family, especially her sisters. Mirka dreams of being a dragon slayer, which is not what orthodox Jewish girls do. Hereville is a town of mostly other Orthodox Jewish families but one day when Mirka is out in the woods she comes across a mysterious house that she has never seen. Mirka is convinced that the women who lives there is a witch and when she eats a grape growing on the the fence she is chased down by a crazy creature. The creature it turns out is a talking pig that belongs to the women. Mirka later rescues the pig and earns a favor from the witch, who tell Mirka where to find a troll to earn herself a sword. But to get the sword Mirka must not only defeat the troll but disobey her family.
Review: Hereville is wonderful and very unique adventure. First, I really enjoy how Deutsch includes yiddish words throughout the story, thankfully he also includes what they mean. He really gives some great insight into the Orthodox Jewish culture and customs that those outside of the religion would not know or understand. Mirka is an unusual heroin but her devotion to being a dragon slayer leads her on an amazing and sometimes funny quest. The struggle between what she wants and what is expected for her is very relatable for tweens. I think it's funny that her knitting plays an important role in her earning her sword. I think it shows that the things from her culture and her family are important and that despite being an Orthodox Jewish girl she can still follow her dreams.
Reader's Annotation: Mirka is not your typical Orthodox Jewish girl, for starters she wants to be a dragon slayer. But first she must defeat a troll to earn her sword.
Main Themes: family, religion, quests
Read Alikes: Curses! Foiled Again by Jane Yolen
Why for Tweens? At 11 years old Mirka not only battles a giant pig but she defeats a giant troll to earn a sword for dragon slaying. The story is unique and fun and a wonderful adventure.

Robot Dreams

Title: Robot Dreams
Author: Sara Varon
ISBN: 9781596431089
Published: 2007
Characters: Robot, Dog
Genre: fiction, graphic novel
Reading Level: N/A
Interest Level: 3rd-5th grade
Plot Summary: Robot Dreams is a wordless graphic novel about a dog who wants a friend. So Dog  orders a robot and the two quickly become the best of friends. Dog takes Robot with him everywhere, even the beach. But when Robot goes running into the ocean things take a turn for the worse. Robot lies down on the beach to dry off and he rusts so bad that he can't move. Dog doesn't know what to do and is forced to leave his friend on the beach and when he tries to go back to help him the beach has been closed off for the winter and Dog is forced to leave his friend behind. The story then follows Robot as he lay dreaming of rescues on the beach, and Dog who tries to find a friend to take the place of Dog.
Review: The story, despite having no words, is a great read. The illustrations do a wonderful job of showing the friendship between Robot and Dog and then how they both struggle with being apart. I love seeing Dog try and find new friends and losing some of them, like Snowman who melts in the spring heat. Robots story is also interesting as Robot dreams of different ways he could be rescued as he lay abandoned on the sand. There are themes of friendship and how to deal when you lose a friend, or you are no longer some one's best friend as they move on to new friends. The ending is not what the reader expects. But I like that is shows Robot moving on to a new friend and that when the to see each other in passing they look fondly on the time they have but realize that each of them have moved on. It's interesting to see just how much emotion and story telling can be told without words.
Reader's Annotation: Robot and Dog are the best of friends. But when Robot gets stuck on the beach for the winter Dog is left to make new friends and Robot is left dreaming of a way out.
Main Themes: friendship, loss
Read Alikes: Bake Sale by Sara Varon, Owly by Andy Runton
Why for Tweens? Tweens are dealing a lot with making and losing friends as they grow up and find themselves liking different things. This story is a great example of how you can make new friends and that while you may be very close to someone for a period of time this doesn't always last. But the story shows you can move on and make new friends and that doesn't mean you dont' care about your former friends. I also think tweens will enjoy the drawings and humours aspects of the story, like Dog forcing himself to eat ants with his new anteater friends.

My Life as a Book

Title: My Life as a Book
Author: Jake Tashjian
ISBN: 9780805089035
Published: 2010
Other books in the series: My Life as a Stuntboy, My Life as a Cartoonist
Characters: Derek
Genre: fiction
Reading Level: 5th grade
Interest Level: 4-7th grade
Plot Summary: Derek is not what you would call the perfect student or the perfect kid. Derek struggles in school and seems to always be causing problems at home. But as school nears summer vacation Derek can't wait to finally have a break from the pressures of school. Derek soon finds out that his parents don't seem to have the same summer plans. Derek is being sent off to Learning Camp, not exactly how Derek wanted to spend his summer. Struggling to do his summer reading and stay of of trouble, Derek is not having the greatest summer. But then Derek discovers a newspaper article about a girl who died and when he questions his mom he feels that she is hiding something from him. Now Derek is determined to not let the summer be a bust and does his best to discover what his mom is hiding. What he discovers is not what he expected.
Review: The story is a great one for those who struggle with reading. Derek is honest about his distaste for books and he addresses his struggle in his own unique way. Derek's drawings throughout the story not only give the reader a personal look into Derek but the drawings are also funny. The drawings are also a great way to introduce some new vocabulary to the reader in a unique and fun way. The book keeps the reader interested not only in the humour but also in the mystery behind the newspaper article. This is where the the book takes a bit of a more serious turn as it deals with the death of Derek's babysister. There is some great insight from Derek on how he views his parents and their own struggles. I like that the book reflects a tweens growing acknowledgment of their parents as human beings who have faults and issues of their own.
Reader's Annotation: When Derek finds out that he not only has to do summer reading for school but also go to Learning Camp, Derek's summer isn't turning out how he expected. Until he discovers a mysterious article about a dead girl in his parent attic.
Main Themes: family, lose, friendship, growing up
Read Alikes: Diary of a Wimpy Kid Jeff Kinney, Charlie Jo Jackson's Guide to Not Reading by Tom Greenwald
Why for Tweens? Derek's character has huge appeal to tween boys. He is funny, causes trouble, and is always looking for an adventure. He also struggles with school and reading which I think could really make this book appealing to reluctant readers. There is some great drawings in the story as well that we'll keep tween readers wanting to read more. Also, tweens might find it interesting to know that the drawings are done by Janet Tashjian's adolescent son.

Wonderstruck

Title: Wonderstruck
Author: Brian Selznick
ISBN: 978-0-545-02789-2
Published: Oct. 2011
Genre: fiction, historical fiction
Reading Level: 5th grade
Interest Level: 4th-8th grade
Plot Summary: The story features two story lines. The one story, told in words, is about a young boy named Ben who recently lost his mother due to a car accident. Having never known who his father is Ben now lives with his aunt and uncle. The other story, told in pictures, is about a young girl named Rose living in New Jersey. Rose is deaf and spends her time alone in her room, much to her displeasure. Ben is living in Minnesota in 1977, while Rose is in New Jersey in 1927. The stories begin to overlap as both characters find themselves searching for people in New York City. Rose is looking for her famous stage mother who doesn't want her in New York while Ben is searching for the man he believe to be his father. It is unclear how these stories connect but clues are given as the stories mysteries are explored. These two stories separated by many years will draw the reader in as they try to understand the connection.
Review: The story is unique in it's telling for many reasons. First the book features two separate story lines both in different times and two different formats of telling. The stories go back and forth and while I thought this would be confusing it isn't and instead it brings a whole new element to the story. I really enjoy how Selznick is able to tell a story with pictures. The black and white sketches have so much detail and really capture the story in a different light. The stories seem unrelated at first but Selznick gives hints through the story as to how they are connected. He is able to bring together the two stories with ease and it doesn't seem forced. The words and pictures then come together to tell one story, rather than two. The story does have an element of sadness with Ben having lost his mother and than learning of his father's death too late. But this sadness is combined with new hope, which makes this story so enjoyable.
Main Themes: family, self-discovery
Read Alikes: Feathers by Jacqueline Woodson, Liar and Spy by Rebecca Stead
Why for Tweens? Tweens will really enjoy the mystery of the story. They will also connect with Ben who is searching for family and strikes out on his own. Both characters in the story show the growing need for independence but also the need for family and someone to connect to, a feeling tweens can understand.

The Tale of Despereaux

Title: The Tale of Despereaux
Author: Kate Dicamillo
ISBN: 0786265787
Published: Sept. 2003
Characters: Despereaux, the Princess, Roscuro
Genre: fiction, fantasy, fairy tale
Reading Level: 3rd grade
Interest Level: 3rd-6th grade
Awards: Newbery Award
Plot Summary: Inside the walls of a castle the smallest mouse, with giant ears, is born. His mother named him Despereaux, after all the despair in the world. But Despereaux is a strange mouse who doesn't behave like a mouse should. He reads the books instead of eating them and he doesn't scurry in fear. Also in the castle is a King and his daughter who are morning the loss of the beloved Queen who died when she discovered a rat in her soup. The King banned soup and rats but despite the ban the rats live in the dark depths of the dungeon. The rats never leave their dark dwelling, except for one; Roscuro. Roscuro, is obsessed with the light and has a diabolic plan to live in the light. But what Roscuro doesn't know is that Despereaux will find himself on a quest to stop his plan, all in his pursuit for love and honor.
Review: Despereaux is a wonderful fantasty that is full of adventure, love and honor. Despereaux is the little mouse that could. He never seems to give up hope even after his own family sends him to his death in the dungeon. I really enjoy how despite his oddness, Despereaux is the hero. He shows tweens how being different isn't a bad thing. The story focuses on themes of good vs evil and that sometimes these things can exist in one person; they can be both dark and light. The story is able to show this complex theme without feeling bogged down. The story also has elements of quirkiness and fun. The King is a bit absurd in his demand that no one can have soup, but it's funny parts of the plot like this that keep the story moving and interesting.
Reader's Annotation: Despereaux is the most unlikely of heroes. He is small, even for a mouse, and his is always sneezing and acting very un-mouse like. Maybe it's his love of fairy tales or maybe it's his destiny but Despereaux is the knight in shining armor.
Main Themes: love, loyalty, good vs evil
Read Alikes: Redwall by Brian Jacques, Liesel & Po by Lauren Oliver, Mrs Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
Why for Tweens? Despereaux is the perfect character for tweens, he is awkward and different yet he still rises to the challenge. The story also starts to address questions that tweens may have. The story shows tweens that dark and light exists within everyone, some have more of one than another. But as tweens are starting to see that not everyone is perfect, there is much that they can relate to in the story.