Aliens Get the Sniffles Too! (Review and Giveaway Entry!)

Having stayed up just last night to help my poor toddler feel better from Croup, this book seems especially appropriate today! Check out my review of Aliens Get the Sniffles Too! and see below to enter a giveaway for a pretty awesome prize...

Aliens Get the Sniffles Too!
Written by Katy S. Duffield, illustrated by K. G. Campbell

My rating: ★★★

ISBN: 978-0763665029
Publisher: Candlewick
Date of publication: November 7, 2017
Age: 4 - 8 years
Genre: Science Fiction
Format: ARC from publisher

Themes: extraterrestrials, sick/ill, cold treatments, pets, family relationships

"Little Alien is sick. And sick is extra-terrestrial bad when you have two scratchy throats, five ears that hurt, and three runny noses. Splatch! Sputter! Spurt! Luckily Mama and Daddy Alien have an arsenal of lunar decongestants and meteor showers on hand to make him feel a little better (not to mention a Milky Way milkshake to help the medicine go down). Even so, the family's alien pooch, Mars Rover, can't stand to see his little buddy feeling out of sorts. Can a loyal pup's funny tricks finally coax a smile?"

Oh, the joys of a sick child! This loving alien mom and dad do all sorts of things to help their poor child, as loving parents would. In the end, though, it seems as though the dog will be getting the credit. Maybe my recent late night makes me a tad more bitter about this than I should be—the parents did all they could! Despite my own bias, I'm sure kids will love the story. It's got a dash of humor, plenty of relatable woes (oh the sniffles and sore throat!), and a very lovable dog. The illustrations are soft, with Campbell's colored-penciled settings and characters, making it feel cozy. It seems a good read when you've got an under-the-weather child. Check it out! Or enter the giveaway below for a chance at your own copy.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Katy Duffield is the award-winning author of more than twenty-five books for children. She lives in Florida with her husband. To learn more, and to download classroom resources, visit katyduffield.com. Twitter: @KatyDuffield. Check out Katy on Pinterest!

K. G. Campbell is the illustrator of Flora & Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo and the author-illustrator of Lester’s Dreadful Sweaters. He was born in Kenya, raised in Scotland, and now lives in southern California.

TWO giveaway opportunities!!

1. One grand-prize winner will receive an out-of-this-world alien backpack with a signed copy of Aliens Get the Sniffles Too! along with tissue packs, toy mini aliens, and space pencils.
2. Ten lucky runners-up will receive a copy of Aliens Get the Sniffles Too!

To enter, click here

Top Middle-Grade Reads of the Month (Oct 2017)

My favorite middle-grade books from this month are definitely on the suspenseful side--spooks, high adventure, demons, mind games, betrayal, ghosts, and even evil robots. Maybe the Halloween spirit was hitting me a little early?

The Empty Grave
(Lockwood & Co. #5)
Jonathan Stroud

My rating: ★★★★★

ISBN: 978-1484778722
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Date of publication: September 12, 2017
Age: Grades 5 - 9
Genre: Horror
Format: personal purchase

Themes: ghosts, hauntings, experiments, business practices, friendship, London

"Five months after the events in THE CREEPING SHADOW, we join Lockwood, Lucy, George, Holly, and their associate Quill Kipps on a perilous night mission: they have broken into the booby-trapped Fittes Mausoleum, where the body of the legendary psychic heroine Marissa Fittes lies. Or does it? This is just one of the many questions to be answered. Will Lockwood ever reveal more about his family's past to Lucy? Will their trip to the Other Side leave Lucy and Lockwood forever changed? Will Penelope Fittes succeed in shutting down their agency forever? The young agents must survive attacks from foes both spectral and human before they can take on their greatest enemy in a climactic and chaotic battle. And to prevail they will have to rely on help from some surprising—and shadowy—allies."

Perfect. I'm serious. It was like...everything I ever wanted. And, really, I'm sorry if you're just now joining me (here, why don't you check out my reviews for book 1, 2, 3, and 4—yes, I've reviewed every one of them on here and I love 'em all). In this, the concluding book of the series, Lucy builds an even stronger bond to those around here (which, in turn, made me, as the reader, build my own stronger bond with these characters), the intrigue is in full force, key ghosts make their appearance, and the climax? Well, it was definitely the right way to end the series. Hugely recommended, especially before Halloween—read this series NOW.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Guardians of the Gryphon's Claw
(A Sam London Adventure)
Todd Calgi Gallicano

My rating: ★★★★

ISBN: 978-1524713652
Publisher: Delacorte
Date of publication: August 29, 2017
Age: Grades 4 - 7
Genre: Fantasy
Format: ARC from publisher

Themes: mythological creatures, adventure, curses, national parks

"Haunted by a dream of a mythical gryphon, Sam London uncovers an ancient secret that will change the way he sees the world forever. Recruited by Dr. Vance Vantana, an eccentric zoologist and park ranger sent by the government, Sam is whisked away on an adventure that takes him to the farthest reaches of the globe. Along this journey, Sam learns an incredible truth: mythical creatures are real and living among us in our national parks. A special department in the U.S. government ensures that their existence remains hidden. But Sam’s dream is an omen that the secret may now be in danger. Someone seeks the power to expose these creatures and overthrow humankind—and that power can only be found in a magical talisman known as the gryphon’s claw."

A brilliantly done, epic fantasy adventure that brings the likes of Percy Jackson series to mind. Sam himself, though, is a character unlike most I've seen—his insecurities, home life, questions, doubts, struggles and joys really make him relatable and realistic (yes, even in a fantasy novel). I really enjoyed him, as well as Vance (who has great character history). I also really enjoyed the story and how it was presented (that the author is merely compiling the case files received from the U.S. Department of Mythical Wildlife with "dramatic interpretation") and its thorough details. The storyline, however, was what lost me just a bit, with a lot of hops, skips, and jumps (e.g. breaking the narrative to refer to a future plot point). My biggest complaint (which is still small in the whole scheme of things, mind you) is the presence of a double climax. It almost felt like the book could've ended in the middle and the sequel begun. Still, high excitement, frighteningly detailed creatures, and courageous characters makes for an easily recommendable fantasy adventure.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

The World's Greatest Adventure Machine
Frank L. Cole

My rating: ★★★★

ISBN: 978-0399552823
Publisher: Delacorte
Date of publication: August 8, 2017
Age: Grades 4 - 8
Genre: Science Fiction
Format: eBook from publisher

Themes: special abilities, amusement park rides, friendship, virtual reality

"CastleCorp and the famous Castleton brothers are unveiling the World’s Greatest Adventure Machine! The roller coaster is an experience like no other, and four lucky kids have won the chance to be the first to ride it.There’s Trevor, whose latest stunt got him in trouble at school again. There’s Devin, whose father is pushing him to be the next Internet sensation. Nika’s wealthy grandfather isn’t too pleased about her participation. And Cameron, he’ll be the first to tell you, is a certified genius.

"The whole world is watching. But as the kids set off on their journey, they begin to realize that there is perhaps more to their fellow contest winners than meets the eye. And the Adventure Machine? It might just have a mind of its own. Join the contestants on their wild ride if you dare. Your adventure starts now!"

Oh man, what a ride (pun intended). This was one that I was sad to finish and still thinking about long after I'd read the last page. While it can be hard to balance a book between four main characters and their varying points of view, I would say that Cole managed it quite well. Each had their own secrets, histories, and abilities that shaped them in unique ways to drive the story forward. And then there's the story itself—wow! It's got some trippy mind benders that really get you wondering and puzzling. While the Jurassic Park and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (and Mr. Lemoncello's Library, too, now that I think of it) plot points are there, the actual concept is fascinatingly unique and often had me guessing what, exactly, was reality (to the point where it might have been a bit tough for me to follow what was happening exactly). Overall, the Adventure Machine is one super creepy ride—kids will love it.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

5 Worlds: The Sand Warrior (Review and Giveaway!)

For yet one more giveaway, I have a fantastic new graphic novel, which is a genre I don't tackle often enough. Good thing I have opportunities like these to share some graphic-novel-goodness with you. Thanks to Random House for providing me an ARC and for sponsoring this giveaway! Enter below...

5 Worlds: The Sand Warrior
Written by Mark Siegal & Alexis Siegal
Illustrated by Xanthe Bouma, Matt Rockefeller, & Boya Sun

My rating: ★★★★

ISBN: 978-1101935866
Publisher: Random House
Date of publication: May 2, 2017
Age: Grades 4 - 8
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Format: ARC from publisher

Themes: adventure, heroes, friendship, alternate universe, elemental powers

"The Five Worlds are on the brink of extinction unless five ancient and mysterious beacons are lit. When war erupts, three unlikely heroes will discover there’s more to themselves—and more to their worlds—than meets the eye...

 - The clumsiest student at the Sand Dancer Academy, Oona Lee is a fighter with a destiny bigger than she could ever imagine.
- A boy from the poorest slums, An Tzu has a surprising gift and a knack for getting out of sticky situations.
- Star athlete Jax Amboy is beloved by an entire galaxy, but what good is that when he has no real friends?

"When these three kids are forced to team up on an epic quest, it will take not one, not two, but 5 WORLDS to contain all the magic and adventure!"

Reviews of the Week 1/23

A fresh foot of snow yesterday had me excited to read some more snowy picture books (even after the activity-packed Yeti book highlight post a week back). Also on the docket? A brand new superhero middle grade novel that's all about...squirrels. Because they're awesome. (Hey and don't forget! It's the ALA Youth Media Award 2017 announcements today! See which books will get new shiny stickers on their covers! And no, I was not even close with my Mock Caldecott and Newbery...)

Reviews of the Week 9/5

Did you have a good Labor Day? Back to work, now, sadly. Ooo, there are some good reviews this week, though! Mostly, the books here catered to my humor and love of all things adorable. But! There are also some great underlying messages about bullying and appreciating one's self...

  

The Best of the Best Pokemon Books for Kids

If you haven't heard of Pokemon Go, then I'm seriously concerned that you're living under a rock. Pokemon, once hugely popular when I was a kid, has roared back with a vengeance to be the top topic in pop culture. So, on the other hand, this post is in no way original and is rather late to the game. Because libraries and Pokemon right now are like this:

They have a little thing for each other. So to help libraries spread the love a little more, or, really, for anyone looking to expand their Pokemon knowledge, here's the best of the best books about Pokemon. Basically, these are the ones that were always checked out at my library and are best sellers on Amazon.

Wonder Woman at Super Hero High

Wonder Woman at Super Hero High
(DC Super Hero Girls)
Lisa Yee

My rating: ★★½

ISBN: 978-1101940594
Publisher: Random House
Date of publication: March 1, 2016
Age: Grades 4 - 7
Genre: Science Fiction
Format: library book

Themes: DC Superheroes, friendship, school, competition,

Wonder Woman has only ever known life on Paradise Island, but she wants fulfill her full potential as a superhero. Despite her mother's misgivings, Wonder Woman enrolls at the elite Super Hero High and eagerly studies hard to ace classes, embraces new friends, and juggles a variety of clubs and training. What she doesn't anticipate is a roommate documenting her every move on social media, anonymous threatening notes telling her to leave, and the ever never-before-seen boys. High school might be harder than she thought.

Kick-butt female superheroes and villains kicking back in high school? Sounds like an awesome idea! And...then I read the book. While it's a book that fills a void in the male-heavy superhero world, it could've been executed so much better. The story line was very repetitive and dragged quite a bit. The characters, while beloved, were pretty ditsy. Wonder Woman is, indeed, insatiably optimistic, slightly ignorant (life on a secluded island with only women might do that to you), and dedicated to justice—but in this book, that all came together to make her seem like an airhead. Especially when she earned the nickname "Wondy." Oh, Wondy...

I did enjoy some aspects, like the antics of Harley Quinn and Wondy's reaction to the dorky-but-cute Steve Trevor. Also, the research that went into it is impressive—every single character comes from the DC universe. So while I may not have loved the story, I still appreciate its helping girls to delve into the nerd culture.

Readalikes would include books like Goddess Girls or Grimmtastic Girls.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Frank Einstein and the Antimatter Motor

Frank Einstein and the Antimatter Motor
(Frank Einstein #1)
Written by Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Brian Biggs

My rating: ★★★½

ISBN: 978-1419712180
Publisher: Harry N Abrams
Date of publication: August 19, 2014
Age: Grades 3 - 5
Genre: Science Fiction
Format: library book

Themes: robots, inventions, scientific method, humor, friendship

Kid-genius and inventor Frank Einstein loves figuring out how the world works by creating household contraptions that are part science, part imagination, and definitely unusual. This time, an uneventful experiment in his garage-lab, a lightning storm, and a flash of electricity bring Frank’s inventions—the robots Klink and Klank—to life! Not exactly the ideal lab partners, the wisecracking Klink and the overly expressive Klank nonetheless help Frank attempt to perfect his antimatter motor invention...until Frank’s archnemesis, T. Edison, steals Klink and Klank for his evil doomsday plan!

There is so much to appreciate about this book—educational and humorous, first and foremost. Klink and Klank are perfect comic relief to Frank's thoroughly scientific observations and plans. The book examines six different aspects of scientific study (starting, of course, with matter), discusses experimentation, breaks down the scientific method, and still makes time for cow-fart jokes, Captain Underpants, and a lovable HugMeMonkey. (Not necessarily my brand of humor, but I know lots of kids will love it).

But beyond humor and science, the actual aspects of the book are still great, too. The illustrations have just enough cartoon-ish aspect to keep things light and fun, while still including the occasional plan breakdown and scientific figure. The characters are pretty great—I love the relationship Frank has with this grandpa, and with his best friend Watson. However, some complaints... T. Edison. He just seems to be the token bad guy for no particular reason; hopefully the later books will delve deeper into his character. Also, I wish Frank's parents weren't portrayed as foolish or ignorant.

In the end, this is a great chapter book to get kids confident about reading, excited about science, and laughing to themselves. Recommended for sure.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

The Wild Robot

The Wild Robot
Peter Brown

My rating: ★★★★

ISBN: 978-0316381994
Publisher: Little, Brown Books
Date of publication: April 5, 2016
Age: Grades 3 - 6
Genre: Science Fiction

Themes: robots, animal life, friendship, survival, family, environment, islands

When robot Roz opens her eyes for the first time, she discovers that she is alone on a remote, wild island. She has no idea how she got there or what her purpose is—but she knows she needs to survive. After battling a fierce storm and escaping a vicious bear attack, she realizes that her only hope for survival is to adapt to her surroundings and learn from the island's unwelcoming animal inhabitants. As Roz slowly befriends the animals, the island starts to feel like home—until, one day, the robot's mysterious past comes back to haunt her.

Wow. I'm impressed. Yes, its a fun story with cute illustrations and short chapters—all things that will make it popular with the intended audience. And yet, underneath all that, Brown still addresses some pretty deep topics and writes with the skill that readers of all ages will appreciate. With family makeup, environmental issues, dangerous human tendencies, and even robot ethics—yeah, it can get pretty heavy the more you think about it. I didn't particularly enjoy the heavy handed stuff, but that's just my personal preference.

I still really liked the overall story. It does take its time in some places (and may deter the action- seeking readers) but it's good for the emotional development.  Roz really develops quite wonderfully and really grew on me as a character. I also loved all the animals with their individual (varied and many) personalities (oh man Chitchat, so cute). And the ending was enough that, if there was a sequel (and it does leave the possibility) that I would definitely want to read it. But I'm still satisfied. Overall, I'm very happy with what this picture book author was able to do for his first chapter book. Definitely recommended.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Little Robot

Little Robot
Ben Hatke

My rating: ★★★★

ISBN: 978-1626720800
Publisher: First Second
Date of publication: September 1, 2015
Age: Grades 1 - 4
Genre: Graphic Novel, Science Fiction

Themes: friendship, robots, STEM

When a little girl finds an adorable robot in the woods, she presses a button and accidentally activates him for the first time. Now, she finally has a friend. But the big, bad robots are coming to collect the little guy, and it's all up to a five-year-old armed only with a wrench and a fierce loyalty to her mechanical friend to save the day!

This is just an all around good book. There's so many small details to appreciate, as well as the story as a whole. For instance, the text is sparse, with the art acting as the main story-teller. The girl is the only character that actually talks (the robots all make nice-for-reading-aloud robot noises). And then there's details like this:

This emphasizes the simple art-filled, minimal-text feel of the book. I love it. So, on the whole, it makes a great book for kids of all ages—reader and non-reader, alike.

As for the actual story, I really appreciated the lesson it has in friendship. The little girl is obviously pretty lonely, and with this new robot friend, is trying to navigate the difficulties of balancing what she wants with the needs/wants of the robot. Plus, don't forget, there's evil robots to contend with, adding a classic good vs. evil subplot to the book.

The lack of fifth star was due to little bits and pieces that I didn't understand/appreciate. But really, I'd still recommend it. I think it'd even be an awesome classroom study, because there's so much to infer in the story and lessons to learn about friendship. A great graphic novel for the younger crowd. Try it out.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Interstellar Cinderella

Interstellar Cinderella
Written by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Meg Hunt

My rating: ★★★

ISBN: 978-1452125329
Publisher: Chronicle
Date of publication: May 5, 2015
Age: 4 - 7 years
Genre: Science Fiction

Themes: fractured fairy tale, space ships, mechanics, gender roles

With a little help from her fairy godrobot, Cinderella is going to the ball—but when the prince's ship has mechanical trouble, Cinderella knows just how to help. The prince is smitten! But Cinderella has to run—how will the prince find her again?

This is a rather awesome twist on the original tale. It's not just about dancing the night away, but has a heroine that is strong and independent. So, the star character was great, but the rhyming scheme for the story was lacking. There were random hops and skips in the story (letting the illustrations or the reader's knowledge of Cinderella fill in the gaps) and some of the rhymes felt forced. Overall, not my favorite.

The illustrations were very fun, though—big and bold and with lots of color. In some cases, it can be a tad too much, but it fits the nontraditional nature of the book. It's definitely one to keep on your radar as another fun fractured fairy tale, but I wouldn't necessarily seek it out to recommend. Try it out if you want.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Star Wars: Jedi Academy

Star Wars: Jedi Academy
(Jedi Academy #1)
Jeffrey Brown

My rating: ★★★

ISBN: 978-0545505178
Publisher: Scholastic
Date of publication: August 27, 2013
Age: Grades 3 - 7
Genre: Science Fiction

Themes: The Force, bullies, friendship, students

Roan is looking forward to moving on to Pilot School, just like his brother, dad, and grandfather before him. To his horror and confusion, however, he is rejected admittance—and is mysteriously accepted to the Jedi Academy. Working with "the Force" and some sort of beam sword? Wrinkly, old green guys for teachers? What has Roan gotten into?

Part diary, part comic, this book is definitely a non-traditional format to draw non-traditional readers—and traditional readers alike. However, it was not my style. Still, it was good. Roan struggles with typical preteen/new school issues such as girls, new friends, bullies, and tough school subjects, but all while being a Jedi. So Roan is relatable, as well as admirable. Overall, however, the story was a bit dry—it's definitely more focused on the school drama than Jedi/Star Wars action. In the end, it's not my favorite, but I can see it as an easy recommendation for reluctant readers and Star Wars fans.

Readalikes include Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Big Nate.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Firefight

Happy Valentines Day! I'm celebrating with a book I love...and it has a red(ish) cover...aren't I festive?

Firefight
(The Reckoners #2)
Brandon Sanderson

My rating: ★★★★★

ISBN: 978-0385743587
Publisher: Delacorte
Date of publication: January 6, 2015
Age: Grades 8 and up
Genre: Science Fiction

Themes: superpowers, resistance, evil, secrecy

After the downfall of Steelheart, David thought life would be simpler. Instead, he has questions. Perhaps his answer lies in Babylon Restored, the borough once known as Manhattan. There, the high epic Regalia is taunting the Reckoners, drawing them to her city. But it's also where Firefight is, and David needs to know if she's really the villain people claim. These and other answers, however, just may cost David his life.

I loved this book. I love Brandon Sanderson. The way that he can create an entire community--world, really--where these amazing powers and abilities control the way everything works is amazing. That he can do it in a believable way is even more amazing. David is an even better character in this book. Whereas in the last novel where he was driven by revenge, his one goal in life has been accomplished. There's a hole in his heart. So what does that mean? His character evolves, beautifully.

I was a little confused at some of the events in the end (a little bit of, "Wait, what?"). There were some stretches. But it was just SO EXCITING it didn't really matter. It was one of those books that just didn't leave my mind even after I had finished it. I need the next book, Sanderson!! Everyone, read these books!

See my review for Book 1

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Soulprint

Soulprint
Megan Miranda

My rating: ★★★

ISBN: 978-0802737748
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Date of publication: February 3, 2015
Age: Grades 8 to 11
Genre: Science Fiction

Themes: identity, justice, fugitives, reincarnation

Alina Chase has been imprisoned on a secluded island her whole life because of a crime committed in a previous lifetime. Her soul, printed and tracked in a massive database, has been pegged as guilty. And she's sick of it. She finally manages to escape with the help of three teens with their own ulterior motives. Can she trust any of them? And as she uncovers clues from her past life, will she be able to clear her name? Or is she fated to repeat history?

It's a pretty suspenseful read, with plenty of intrigue and a fast-paced plot. But I'm not sure Miranda is quite able to handle the rather weighty issue of reincarnation. It just doesn't come off as plausible. She makes attempts at gravitas—bringing in its affect on religion, fate, and perception—but it just didn't quite get there. Alina is a troubled character: can she make her own decisions or is her soul deciding her fate? It didn't feel real enough for me.

But that's more of my personal bias. Otherwise, you've got a pretty exciting read with a lot of action and whatnot. The characters are interesting, with their current pasts, as well as their soul's past to deal with and delve into. Miranda does a good job of revealing the depth of the characters piece by piece. And I do like how it ends. So you can decide for yourself.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

The Fourteenth Goldfish

The Fourteenth Goldfish
Jennifer L. Holm

My rating: ★★★★

ISBN: 978-0375870644
Publisher: Random House
Date of publication: August 26, 2014
Age: Grades 4 - 8
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Science Fiction

Themes: family, relationships, friendship, life & death, the Fountain of Youth

Eleven-year-old Ellie already has enough change to deal with now that she's going to middle school. But when a strange boy shows up at her house, she's in for a big surprise. He's cranky, has a penchant for polyester clothing, bosses people around him, and looks vaguely like Ellie's grandfather—a scientist obsessed with finding the cure for old age. Is this boy really Grandpa Melvin? Has he really discovered the source for eternal youth?

While the story of eternal youth can be far-fetched, Holm uses the idea to really focus in on the deeper aspects of life, death, and relationships—and what science has really accomplished in the world. Sure, there's no eternal youth, but there's vaccines, pasteurization, and the atomic bomb. She uses Grandpa Melvin, with the perfect does of humor and zeal for science, to emphasize these ideas.

Ellie is the best character in the book. She's facing the quintessential horrors of middle school: her best friend has new interests, her parents have certain expectations...and then there's the strange boy wearing all black and sporting several piercings. What does she want to do? How can she build her own identity? Well, maybe science is as cool as her grandpa claims. And so it begins! Holm captured her anxiety and success rather well.

Besides some jumps (I felt like the push at the climax came rather suddenly), the story is a good one, and I appreciate the girls-can-love-science-too undertone. I recommend it. Especially if you want to encourage an appreciation for science!

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Atlantia

I interrupt regularly scheduled programming for this: Happy Book Birthday! A special review for a recent release. (This post was meant to be published yesterday, but you get the point...)

Atlantia
Ally Condie

My rating: ★★★

ISBN: 978-0525426448
Publisher:
Date of publication: October 28, 2014
Age: Grades 7 and up
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction

Themes: Dystopic society, corrupted government, underwater, family, relationships

Rio has dreamed of real air, real dirt, and sky. Instead, with the unexpected desertion of her twin sister, Bay, and the death of her parents, she is stuck. She is trapped in the underwater city of Atlantia, originally built to save humanity from the pollution and dangers Above. All alone, she hides the secret of her siren voice, and searches for a way to escape to the sunshine. In the process, she uncovers other secrets about her mother's death, her sister's decision, and the corrupted system of the Divide.

The story is captivating, albeit not completely unique (it vaguely reminded me of City of Ember). How it's written... Well, Condie's writing style can be very methodical. So, on the one hand, you get a good picture of the setting and characters. But on the other, it can be slow and redundant. It took some time to really get going. As for the characters? I especially admired True, the romantic interest in the story. He was selfless and hiding some fascinating secrets. Rio, as a character, was rather depressing and did not seem to evolve enough. She comes off selfish and woe-is-me. Overall, I do like it. It's up to you if you want to read it.

Find it at your library or on Atlantia

What We Found in the Sofa and How It Saved the World

(Bonus book review today: we're talking about the Virtual Book Club book! We meet on Twitter and you can join in too! Just follow along with #vbcbooks!)

What We Found in the Sofa and How It Saved the World
Henry Clark

My rating: ★★½

ISBN: 978-0316206662
Publisher: Little, Brown
Date of publication: July 2, 2013
Age: Grades 3 - 7
Genre: Science Fiction

Themes: gadgetry, interplanetary portals, alien invasion, adventure, mind control

The three of them found the sofa while they were waiting for the bus, just plopped down by the curb, probably waiting for a trash pickup. When searching the cushions, River, Freak, and Fiona discover a rare and (as eBay soon reveals) valuable zucchini-colored crayon. Upon marching up to the house of the sofa's owner to return the crayon, they are pulled into a zany plot hatched by their eccentric neighbor to stop an evil billionaire from enslaving the entire world. Because the crayon is the key.

The story is thoroughly inventive; it takes quite the imagination to hatch a plot to takeover the world based on something found in a sofa. The characters are endearing, each with their own challenges that shape their actions. And some (younger) kids may really go for this. It is, after all, a rather fantastical adventure. So stop here if you want to read it.

Because, oh my, I could barely finish it. And I only did so because it was a book club book. It was definitely not my style with the far-fetched plot and extremely convenient coincidences that make these kids capable of stopping a billionaire alien. So. Many. Literary shortcuts. (Which, if you remember, was pet-peeve #14.) It's cute, it really is. But I really couldn't enjoy it fully there as it got close to the ending.

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Infinite Sea

Infinite Sea
(The 5th Wave #2)
Rick Yancey

My rating: ★★★★

ISBN: 9780399162428
Publisher: Putnam
Date of publication: September 16, 2014
Age: Grades 10 and up
Genre: Science Fiction

Themes: aliens, humanity, trust, survival, extermination

The 5th wave of attack from the Others is underway, and survival is nearly impossible. Cassie, Ben, and Ringer, as some of the few humans left on Earth, are now seeing the depths to which the Others will sink to exterminate the human race. But they, in turn, will show the Others how far humanity can rise in this battle between hope and despair, trust and betrayal.

And it is quite the battle. I'm still reeling! My mind is reeling...and I'm pretty sure I really don't really know what's going on. It is SO complicated with all the alien mind tricks. You have no idea who you can trust. Also, it is told from multiple perspectives. Like a lot. And being the second in the series it's hard to tell if all the loose ends will wrap up and if there's actually a point to all of this complicated story line. But HOLY COW it is SO exciting and SO hard to predict and just...prepare yourself. That is all I can say. This is really hard to review. And so four stars: the writing and characters are superb, and yet, too complex. Personal bias.

See my review for Book 1

Warning: Explicit Content
Language
Sexuality

Find it at your library or on Amazon

Stitching Snow

Stitching Snow
R. C. Lewis

My Rating: ★★★

ISBN: 9781423185079
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Date of publication: October 14, 2014
Age: Grades 8 - 11
Genre: Science Fiction

Themes: alias, planetary war, secrets, drones

Essie has a knack for programming, and likes her job taking care of her seven loyal mining drones on the planet Thanda. But when a stranger, Dane, crash lands in her district, she decides to help him--only to find out that he has different plans. Dane knows her true identity, the one she's been running from, and he wants her to face it. So now she'll be dragged into the interplanetary war between the tyrannical, cruel King Matthias and the feared Exiles. Can she program a way out of this?

It's a sci-fi thriller with a very fairy-tale theme. Rather similar to Cinder, I enjoyed the book and idea behind it. The writing, however, left something to be desired...that I haven't quite figured out yet. It just wasn't all the impressive. There were some strange holes, several "Oh that's convenient" saves, and a pretty cheesy ending. Still, the story has thrills, heartbreaks, and a good romance--all while being clean. The unique solar system setting and high tech descriptions also make it exciting. So I would recommend it, definitely to those who are impatiently waiting for the rest of The Lunar Chronicles.

Pre-order now on Amazon!
...or put a hold on it at your library

(Digital ARC provided through NetGalley)

The Clockwork Scarab

The Clockwork Scarab
Colleen Gleason
(Stoker & Holmes #1)

My rating: ★★

ISBN: 9781452110707
Publisher: Chronicle
Date of publication: September 17, 2013
Age: Grades 7 and up
Genre: Mystery, Steampunk

Themes: steampunk, time travel, murder mystery, Egyptian lore,

Mina Holmes is, in fact, Sherlock’s niece. And Evaline Stoker is, indeed, Bram’s sister. Detective and vampire hunter, the two must team up by request of Her Majesty to look into the mysterious deaths of several teen society girls. The one clue linking the deaths together is a strange Egyptian scarab. The two of them, however, are loath to work together. And the advances of certain gentlemen definitely do not seem to help the matter. But if Stoker & Holmes don’t pull it together quick, they just may be the next victims.

Sure, I liked it. But it was a lot of stuff to stuff into one book. A steampunk with a Holmes and a Stoker is a cool idea. Bringing in a time traveler from modern day America just didn’t make any sense (can you even do that?). And the romance…three guys, and two girls… The math doesn’t add up. Who am I supposed to root for? The characters were a tad shallow with some attempts to bring in depth, but I just couldn’t connect. I was lost with some of the descriptions. Overall, sure, pick it up if you like mysterious steampunk novels. I’m just not won over.

If you really want to, find it at your library or on Amazon