A FAREWELL TO JUNE

To all our faithful readers:

Because of time constraints, June's blog is retiring. We hope you've enjoyed it these past few years. If you would still like Liz's reviews of YA books, search for Liz Friend on Goodreads.com and send her a friend request.

Thanks, and happy reading!

SAINT PHILOMENE'S INFIRMARY FOR MAGICAL CREATURES, by W. Stone Cotter

The story: Chance Jeopard would never have thought digging a hole would turn out to be so dangerous--although it was actually the underground mail system leading to Saint Philomene's that really got him into trouble. When he tries to hand-deliver a lost letter, he finds out that humans are NOT welcome here--and now he's trapped in an underground dungeon with a greasy dwarf-looking guy. If only his older sister Pauline would come looking for him! (Well!?!? That's not any less likely than a hospital for magical creatures under the ground in Lubbock, Texas.)

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content G; adult themes (epidemic disease) PG; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: This fantasy novel by first-time author Cotter has plenty of action and LOL moments. Hand it to boys who are looking for an action-packed story with magic (and who are tired of girls being the main character in all the latest fantasy novels).

MARY'S MONSTER, by Lita Judge

The story: 16-year-old Mary Godwin falls in love with Percy Shelley and risks the life of an outcast in order to be with him. This biography marries verse and a graphic novel format to present the story of their doomed love affair and her rise to fame as the author of "Frankenstein".

Liz's comments: On-page sexual content (pictures too!), although "tasteful", render this better for HS, even though critics seem to think it's good for 7th grade and up. It's the rare MS student who would wade through this one.

HOPE NATION, edited by Rose Brock

The story: Top YA authors talk about the things that make them hope, give them inspiration, and help them move through hard times. From Atia Abawi to Jason Reynolds, James Dashner to Ally Condie (and Ally Carter), different perspectives tackle difficult topics facing today's teens...and offer hope.

June Cleaver's ratings: not applicable to non-fiction (although there's plenty of strong language in this one, so hand out an "R" rating for that).

Liz's comments: There really is something for every struggle in this compilation, from body image shaming to civil rights to GLBT issues. In general, it is appropriate for HS readers, not because MS readers wouldn't be able to understand it, but because younger readers tend to think more on a personal level and less on a societal or global scale. I'll keep it on hand in my MS library, though, and hand it to kids who are looking for encouragement about specific issues--you don't need to read the whole thing to get something out of an essay that targets your personal need. On a side note, author Rose Brock worked with the contributors to donate the proceeds from this book to favorite charities--$40,000 so far. Hopeful!

BETWEEN THE LINES, by Nikki Grimes

The story: A group of high school kids get to know each other on a completely different level through the medium of poetry. Everyone ends up in Mr. Ward's class for different reasons, but learning to use the right words helps them deal with their issues: Darrian's mom is dead, Jenesis is about to age out of foster care with nowhere to go; Tyrone's dad was innocent but got busted anyway, Freddie's mom is a drunk and Freddie is stuck taking care of both her mom and her niece, like she's the adult. Poetry helps them work through the pain--but can it take them to the next step?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG-13; Violence PG; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG-13; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (death of a parent, foster care, parental over-expectations, alcoholism, and others, yikes!) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: Word-wise, this is not a difficult book, and it will speak to a lot of different people. Recommended reading for teens looking for a ray of hope, and for kids on the affluenza end of the spectrum as well.

THE HOTEL BETWEEN, by Sean Easley

The story: Their parents disappeared years ago, and Oma takes care of Cameron and Cassie. He's worried about everything and even keeps a list of Worst Ways to Die--but when he has a chance to figure out what happened to Mom and Dad, Cam knows he has to take it...even if it means stepping into the Hotel Between. It's a place where rich travelers can take magical vacations--but where the unwary can find themselves overcome by magical mayhem. Cam doesn't know who to trust--the smiling Nico? Suspicious Rahki, or even the semi-creepy Agapios? Sucked into magical adventures as his own powers begin to show, Cam has to choose correctly, or he may never find his dad. Even worse, he may never see Cass and Oma again.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content G; adult themes (parental abandonment; death of a parent; chronic illness) PG; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: Here's a very imaginative story by debut author Easley. Hand it to your 4th-7th grade fantasy fans, and just get ready to tell them they'll have to wait for the sequel! Cuz...it's clearly being set up for Book 2. So be warned.

LONG WAY DOWN, by Jason Reynolds

The story: Will's brother Shawn is dead, and Will knows the Rules: Don't cry. Don't snitch. DO get revenge. He's in the elevator, a gun stuffed down the back of his jeans, ready to make Riggs pay--but there are seven floors between here and the street, and at every floor, someone gets on: someone Will has known in the past, but who's dead now. Each ghost reminds Will just how it all went down, forcing him to wonder if there needs to be...a change to the rules.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language R; Violence PG-13; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG-13; Magic & the occult PG (cuz...ghosts...); GLBT content G; adult themes (gang and revenge killings) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: I keep feeling it isn't fair that someone ALWAYS does amazing work, yet here we are. It's another timely and telling story by Jason Reynolds. Dang, Jason. Don't you ever get tired of all those starred reviews? (Seriously, though...this story is eye opening, thought-provoking, and required for all libraries serving teens. Despite the "F" bomb and some other language, kids of all kinds should read this book.)

SUPERGIFTED, by Gordon Korman

The story: Noah Youkilis has escaped from the Gifted and Talented Academy and is now hanging out with the lame and the losers at Hardcastle Middle School, doing his best to make his way into a remedial class. Meanwhile, his ungifted buddy Donovan Curtis has just performed an act of heroism that should make him famous--but he's laying low, as usual. When Noah helps Donovan out by taking credit for the rescue, he's an instant superstar--and he's too smart to realize (like Donovan does) that everything is bound to come crashing down around his ears at any minute.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language: G; Violence G; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (lying) PG; overall rating G.

Liz's comments: The sequel to "Ungifted" is its worthy successor and has a bunch of LOL moments. Both are great for reluctant readers and anyone in grades 4-7 who wants to root for a likeable regular kid, or shake their heads at the cluelessness of the super-gifted. Not exactly a stand-alone, but there's enough explanation that reading book one is not a requirement.

NOT IF I SAVE YOU FIRST, by Ally Carter

The story: Maddie and Logan were best friends until the Russians tried to kidnap his mom--the President's wife. Maddie's dad was injured in the attack, and as a result, he took his daughter and disappeared--literally--into the wilds of Alaska. Six years later, Maddie can flip a hatchet and kill a fly, but she's coldly angry that Logan has never answered any of her letters. When the First Son goes too far one too many times, his parents ship him off to Alaska to be out of the limelight until things die down. Little do they know that he's the target of a revenge plot, and that being out of the limelight makes him irresistible to the plotters. Now it's up to Maddie and her survival skills to get them out of this alive. Knives at forty paces, bad guys?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG-13; Violence PG-13; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (kidnapping, revenge, political conspiracy) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: I really liked this one! Gone is the angsty, mentally-ill component that made the Embassy Row series kind of a beating to read (and better for HS readers). This is an accessible survival story with a smart, strong heroine and a suitably hunky, apologetic hero. Thumbs up!

STRANGE STAR, by Emma Carroll

The story: Mary Shelley is stuck for a ghost story, but when a girl appears on the doorstep, half-dead with fear and exhaustion, and looking like the subject of an evil experiment, Mary and her friends are all ears as Lizzie tells her tale--a story of lightning strikes, evil experiments, and the possibility of bringing someone back from the dead. Care to meet Dr. Francesca Stine, anyone?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content G; adult themes (science gone wrong, death of a parent) PG; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: In my experience, MS readers are generally uninterested in historical fiction, and even Mary Shelley, the author of "Frankenstein", isn't going to make them bite. However, if you have a MS girl who's willing to tackle 1816 England and likes a tinge of creepiness to go with the atmosphere, this is a great choice.

TO CATCH A KILLER, by Sheryl Scarborough

The story: Erin's mother was murdered when she was two years old, and the crime went unsolved. Now, a similar murder--this one involving Erin's teacher--pulls Erin back into the spotlight, and even worse, targets her as a suspect. But Erin is an amateur forensic scientist, and she has both the know-how and the daring to go after the murderer with just the help of her two best friends and a guy she hopes ISN'T a murderer...because she'd sure like him to be her boyfriend instead.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG (murders not graphically described); Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (murder) PG; overall rating PG (although definitely best for grades 7-up).

Liz's comments: A serviceable mystery, although it makes me crazy when kids, in danger of their lives, stubbornly keep trying to solve the mystery even when there are trusted adults who could be involved. I realize this is a trope of YA mystery books, but seriously. If it were real life, they'd all end up dead.

THE TRIALS OF MORRIGAN CROW (Nevermoor #1), by Jessica Townsend

The story: Morrigan Crow has always known she was doomed to die on her 12th birthday--so when Jupiter North swoops in and offers her a way out, she's all over it. Even if it means she'll never see her family again. Even if it means that the bad guys will continue to chase her. Even if it means she'll have to use an unknown skill to win a competition she knows nothing about--and if she fails, she's going to die anyway. What does she have to lose?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content G; adult themes (parental neglect, some magical violence) PG; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: This one is fun! Hand it to your Harry Potter crowd, and keep an eye out for book #2: The Calling of Morrigan Crow.

DISAPPEARED, by Francisco X. Stork

The story: Sara and her brother Emiliano are both in over their heads. Sara, a young reporter, uncovers the truth behind a sex-trafficking ring in their hometown of Juarez, and now she's a target. Emiliano, wanting to be rich and in love with a girl who already is, is falling into the sparkling trap laid by drug dealers. Now they're both on the run, and their lives depend on people they've never even met. Can they make it over the border and start a new life in Chicago, or will the bad guys be able to track them no matter where they go?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG-13; Violence PG-13; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG-13 (drug use implied but not described); Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (sex trafficking, drug cartels, government and police corruption) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: Francisco X. Stork always delivers an absorbing read. Despite the PG-13 rating rating, this is probably better for high school readers. Not that MS kids wouldn't be able to understand it, but the social and ethical issues it raises are not of immediate interest for the average MS reader...although they should be. Consider purchasing to support a fine author, and hand-sell it to the more mature reader in the crowd.

TWELVE DAYS IN MAY, by Larry Dane Brimner

The story: Here's an introduction to the Freedom Rides of 1961, including background on the Civil Rights movement and biographical information about the key participants. Winner of the 2018 Sibert Award for non-fiction.

Non-fiction: June's ratings don't apply.

Liz's comments: This Sibert Award winner is a must-have for every library.

EVERLESS, by Sara Holland

The story: Jules has a strange ability that allows her to bend time--or stop it completely...but her magic isn't enough to keep her father alive. Left alone to solve the mystery of her birth, she learns that parents aren't just blood relations, that friends can change, and that love doesn't always choose wisely. Now if she can just stay alive long enough to make up for the damage she's done...

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG-13; Violence PG-13; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG-13; GLBT content G; adult themes (magical violence) PG; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: Hand to your girls who are always looking for the latest romance, with a little magic thrown in.

EVERY SHINY THING, by Cordelia Jensen and Laurie Morrison

The story: Lauren is a budding activist, angry that her autistic brother has been sent away to a special school, and looking for a way to help fund change. Sierra is the foster child who moves in next door, worried about her inability to rescue her alcoholic mother. The girls strike up a friendship just as Lauren learns how easy it is to shoplift and sell things, then put the money in her good-deed fund. Sierra is worried about it, but feels that her job as a friend is to enable what her friend is so passionate about. Seems like things are going perfectly, but Lauren reaches just a bit too far, and now there are consequences for both girls. Painful consequences. Maybe even life-changing ones.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence G; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (addiction, dishonesty and theft) PG-13; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: It's squirm-inducing to watch Lauren self-destruct without ever considering the possible consequences. It's been a long time since I was 13, so maybe 7th graders really are that heedless and clueless, but seeing her headlong descent into disaster mostly made me want to shake her. However, kids looking for redemption in their own lives maybe be comforted to learn (through the trusted avenue of fiction) that even if the process is painful, you can turn yourself around. Sierra also learns important lessons about being an enabler. This one is pretty much just for girls.

CLICK'D, by Tamara Ireland Stone

The story: Ada spent the summer at coding camp and has created a fantastic--possibly prize winning--app. When she lets her friends start sharing it, it goes viral...right before a glitch hits--a glitch she's going to have to fix before Saturday's competition. But the worst part is that she might have to ask her nemesis, Nathan Frederickson, for help in order to pull it off. Could things get any worse?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence G; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes G; overall rating G.

Liz's comments: A perfectly adequate book about girls and their friends was (for me) slowed down a bit by all the references to computers and coding. I realize it's a very big thing right now, and that girls are being encouraged to give it a try, but for those who are a little more distanced from the craze, it's a little off-putting. However, girls like me will self-select, so hand this one to anyone who's interested.

THE WAR THAT SAVED MY LIFE, by Kimberley Brubaker Bradley

The story: Crippled Ada can't remember ever having left her third story apartment in the East End of London, where she's learned what she knows of life from looking out the window. When the threat of bombs forces her to make a move, she and her younger brother Jamie find themselves evacuated to the country--and also find out just how much they don't know about things everyone else takes for granted. Can Ada find the courage to let go of her abusive past and learn to trust in her future?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (child abuse & resulting mental disturbances) PG; overall rating G.

Liz's comments: I liked this story, and think it would appeal to many younger readers, especially those curious about what life might be like in a country at war. Because of her ignorance, Ada frequently reads more immature than her age, although (for me, as an adult, that made sense because of her lack of exposure to life in general) that made sense. An uncomplicated read, good for grades 4-7. The sequel, The War I Finally Won, is equally good.

THE ROAD TO EVER AFTER, by Moira Young

The story: Davy is homeless when Miss Flint hires him (okay, forces him) to drive her to her childhood home--even though he's only 13, and even though he doesn't know how to drive. That's weird enough, but things get even stranger when they steal a turkey truck, dodge the police, and encounter a wild grassland spirit. When the ultimate strange event occurs, Davy and his employer keep making their way to the sea while Davy starts to consider the possibility of angels. And not just the kind in books.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence G; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content G; Adult themes (death and life after death) PG; overall rating PG. Best for grades 4-7.

Liz's comments: This is a charming story that takes an utterly unpredictable turn in the middle, changing it from an adventure tale to fantasy. The average reader will not pick it up cuz...boring cover and tepid flyleaf blurb...but it will strike a chord with just the right reader, who will enjoy it immensely. Hand it to your readers who enjoy Roald Dahl's "Matilda".

IN THE SHADOW OF THE SUN, by Anne Sibley O'Brien

The story: Mia and Simon are on a tour of North Korea with their father when they discover evidence of the country's brutal prison camps. They know it could incriminate their dad, and possibly cause him to end up with a life sentence in a labor camp--so when he's arrested, they go on the run, trying to make it to the Chinese border and freedom. They have no idea just how much they're going to depend on the kindness of strangers to come out of this alive.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG (descriptions of labor camps, but not graphic); Suxual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (repressive regimes, forced labor, espionage) PG; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: Readers who know little about repressive regimes will find a lot to consider in this story. Mia and Simon's decision to bolt seems unconsidered, and there are long stretches of plain old running-and-hiding that seem to go on for a long time, but the glimpse into a world that's so diametrically opposite from ours will be rewarding for kids who stick to it.

NEANDERTHAL OPENS THE DOOR TO THE UNIVERSE, by Preston Norton

The story: Cliff and Aaron are on a mission from God--to make Happy Valley High School a less sucky place to be. Aaron just came out of a coma, and when he approaches Cliff (nicknamed Neanderthal because of his huge size), the other teen is suspicious because Aaron used to be the source of all bullying. But Aaron's evidently turned over a new leaf...or possibly gone crazy. Either way, Cliff knows that life at HVHS sucks, so he's in. He would never have dreamed how things would turn out.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language R; Violence PG; Sexual content PG-13; Nudity PG; Substance abuse PG-13; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content PG-13; adult themes (suicide, parental abuse, bullying, drugs; no on-page sex, but plenty of sex talk and discussion of boners) PG-13; overall rating R.

Liz's comments: This is a funny, well-plotted and sneakily thought-provoking book that will appeal to the bullied and the invisible. I found the overabundance of four-letter words tiresome, but overall Cliff is a snarky, relatable character who discovers the forward progress that can be made when people work together to make things better. NOT for middle school.

LAURA INGALLS IS RUINING MY LIFE, by Shelley Tougas

The story: Charlotte's family has moved, AGAIN, and she's the new girl in school. Again. Her policy of avoiding eye contact and making friends has worked before, but now it seems that her twin brother, always her reliable ally, has deserted her to make some friends of his own. Now she's stuck hanging with Rose, their younger sister, and thinking it's a set-up when other girls are nice. It's only when she channels the spirit of Laura Ingalls Wilder, the town's most famous resident, that she realizes life on the prairie can be good, even if it's hard. But will their footloose mom pull up stakes and ruin things again?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence G; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (parental neglect, bullying) PG, overall rating G. 

Liz's comments: A cute, if lightweight, story about the dangers and rewards of opening yourself up to friendship. Grades 4-7.

FALLOUT (Lois Lane #1), by Gwenda Bond

The story: Junior Lois Lane is the new girl in town. Again. Her policy of laying low doesn't work well for her when she notices another student getting bullied and steps in, only to discover that there are some very strange things going on here in Metropolis--like a group of bullies that is as coordinated as a school of fish, and a principal who doesn't care. Picked up by editor Perry White to cover the teen scene at school, Lois is soon on the hunt, aided by her mysterious online friend, SmallvilleGuy. Can they figure out who's brainwashing kids before they all turn into walking, talking zombies?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content G; adult themes (brainwashing and mind control; government conspiracies) PG-13; overall rating PG-13, best for 8th-up.

Liz's comments: Two thumbs up! Lois is a smart, daring heroine, her crush on Superman is already in play and she doesn't even know it, and there's just enough techo-thrill to this caper to make it especially interesting to today's teens. Check out the next two volumes, "Double Down" and "Triple Threat".

THE STARS BENEATH OUR FEET, by David Barclay Moore

The story: Ever since his brother Jermaine was killed, Lolly Rachpaul has had a weight in his heart. He's sad, he doesn't know how to move on, and worst of all the gang guys now want HIM to join up. It's only when he starts building a gigantic Lego complex, and makes a new friend, that he realizes he needs to--and can--see things in a new way. But will that be enough to help his best friend Vega make a good choice too?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content PG (two moms); adult themes (gang-related violence, dealing with autism) PG-13; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: Lolly's growth as a character, through his friendship with autistic Rose and through their shared love of Legos and architecture, is the real standout in this story. A good fit for those not quite ready for Jason Reynolds's YA stories.

A BABYSITTER'S GUIDE TO MONSTER HUNTING, by Joe Ballarini

The story: Kelly just wants to stop being Invisible--but she never dreamed that becoming a Babysitter would lead her to fame and kick-butt adventures. That's "Babysitter" with a capital B, of course--a group of monster fighters determined to take down the otherworldly bullies haunting the dreams of little kids everywhere. Who ever knew those monsters were REAL?!?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG-13; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult PG-13; GLBT content G; adult themes PG (demonic activity) PG; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: A fun and slightly scary read. I would have reviewed it for grades 5-8. Definitely not for 3rd grade readers.

THE EPIC CRUSH OF GENIE LO, by F. C. Yee

The story: Genie Lo has always stood tall...really tall...but she never realized it was a clue to her true identity as the reincarnated staff of the gods. When cute but short Quentin Sun shows up at school, she feels an immediate connection to him. She put it down to hormones, but it turns out they WERE meant to be together--just not in the way she thought. She's the weapon, he's the Monkey god, and together they're out to kick some demon booty.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language R; Violence PG-13; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG-13; GLBT content G; adult themes G; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: Thumbs up! There's plenty of action in this, but the author also addresses stereotypes of smart Asian kids struggling to get into top-tier colleges and other standard tropes. Best of all is Genie's hilarious, snarky narration, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. Hand this to any kid who likes Percy Jackson and can overlook a female in the role of butt-kicker--or, even better, who would applaud it. ;)

COMPASSIONATE SOLDIER, by Jerry Borrowman

The story: Medals are frequently given to those who display unusual valor on the battlefield, and frequently those who demonstrate their bravery by showing compassion go unrecognized. In this book, the author discusses various people who, throughout history, sacrificed to do the right thing--and occasionally paid for it with their lives. From nurses to WWI air aces, the people in this book, and their true stories, just might surprise you.

Liz's comments: Better for HS and up.

1968, by Michael Kaufman

The story: 1968 was a year that changed the United States forever--and the world, too. Michael Kaufman, a reporter for the New York Times, watched it all come down. Here, he offers a short but thorough report about the killing of both Martin Luther King, Jr and Bobby Kennedy, campus riots, the Vietnam war, and other events that people are still talking about 50 years later.

Non-fiction: regular ratings don't apply. Good for middle school readers.

Liz's comments: 1968 was a watershed year, not just due to the killings of Martin Luther King Jr and Bobby Kennedy. Here's the story of some recent history whose effects are in place today, told by a person who lived it.

THE WIZARDS OF ONCE, by Cressida Cowell

The story: Wish, the Warrior queen's daughter, isn't a very good warrior. And Xar, son of King Encanto the Magnificent, isn't much of a wizard. When Xar's quest to capture a witch and steal her magic for himself brings him crashing into Wish instead, things immediately go wrong and nothing turns out quite as expected--especially the part where they accidentally release the Kingwitch from a stone (even though witches are supposedly extinct). So don't ask what else could go wrong... because it probably will!

June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content G; adult themes G; overall rating G-ish.

Liz's comments: This fantasy story is great for readers in grades 3-6. There's plenty of action here, and only a little scariness. Hand it to kids who want magic but none of the scary stuff--the same audience, in fact, that already loves the "How to Train Your Dragon" series.

RAIL HEAD, by Philip Reeve

The story: Zen is a punk thief on a second-rate planet when Raven chooses him to rob the Emperor and propel himself into immortality--and also onto the radar of every law enforcement officer in their part of the galaxy. All he needs is a little luck, a little help from a lovely android who wants to be human, and the ability to stay one step ahead of all the people who want to kill him. Stranger things have happened.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG-13; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (murder, mayhem, political machinations, godless society in general, sci-fi violence) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: I do like Philip Reeve, but many of his books are just too hard for MS. This one is best for strong readers, 8th and up, mostly because a great deal of thinking has to happen before anyone will figure out what's going on. Explanation is kept to a minimum, but the author's fascinating world building is as strong as ever, and there's mile-a-minute action for anyone willing to strap in for the ride.

WHO KILLED CHRISTOPHER GOODMAN? by Allan Wolf

The story: Christopher Goodman is murdered one summer night, and although only one person pulled the trigger, many people share the guilt. If each one had done one small thing, the chain of events would have been interrupted and Christopher would have lived. And he was a nice kid. So they're all left to wonder--is there any kind of justice in the universe?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language R; Violence PG-13 (the killing is not graphically described); Sexual content PG; Nudity PG; Substance abuse PG-13; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (murder, guilt, dysfunctional family dynamics) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: There are five points of view here, and each voice is distinct and real. I liked the story a lot and think it would be all right for MS libraries as long as a language disclaimer was attached; however, the review sources are pretty unanimous in reviewing it for 9th grade and up. So be warned.

THE CHESS QUEEN ENIGMA (Holmes & Stoker #3) by Colleen Gleason

The story: Mina and Evaline are back, following clues and destroying vampires as they seek to keep an impetuous princess from running off and an evil schemer from figuring out the secret to living forever (which of course involves vampires, Egyptian cult magic, and the dreaded, illegal phenomenon known as electricity). Tea first, anyone?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG-13 (the slaying of vampires is never graphic); Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG-13; GLBT content G; adult themes (the dark side in general) PG-13; overall rating PG-13 (as much for the Victorian style of writing as anything.)

Liz's comments: I do love this series. Colleen Gleason never disappoints! However, with its Dickensian prose, it's best for 8th grade and up.

ALL WE HAVE LEFT, by Wendy Mills

The story: Jesse's brother died sixteen years ago, when the Twin Towers fell. Her family doesn't talk about it, but it's still tearing them apart. This is her story--interwoven with that of her brother, Travis, and his experiences in the North Tower after the planes hit. It's also the story of a girl trapped along with him, and the mystery of whether or not Alia lives.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (terrorism, religious intolerance, gang activities) PG-13; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: It's important to keep in mind that kids in middle school today weren't even born when the Twin Towers were attacked on 9/11. Although Jesse's story, and her attraction to Adam, put this on the girly side of things, Travis and Alia's journey through the Twin Towers is gripping and scary, and a realistic glimpse into what it might have been like to have been there that day. Hand it to any kid looking for an account of September 11, 2001, or for contemporary fiction with flashbacks.

FUNNY GIRL, edited by Betsy Bird

The story: Actually, it's a bunch of stories--funny stories about being a modern girl. If you're a fan of humor that comes in small doses, this is the book for you!

June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence G; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (getting your period, underwear, feminism) PG; overall rating G.

Liz's comments: Pretty sure MS girls will find these stories funnier than I did. ;) My favorite was "Over and Out" by Lisa Graff, detailing the misadventures of a pink bra. Strictly for girls!

ROSEMARKED, by Livia Blackburne

The story: Zivah is rose marked by a disease that will kill her. Dineas is scarred by torture and loss. Thrust together on a high-stakes mission to spy on the capital, the two couldn’t be more different: Zivah, deeply committed to her vow of healing, and Dineas, yearning for vengeance. But as they grow closer, they must find common ground to protect those they love.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG-13; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG-13; Magic & the occult G; GLBt content G; adult themes (torture, implied genocide, scenes of battle violence) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: Told in alternating viewpoints, this is a fast-moving fantasy that will especially appeal to girls. A complicated story, best for 8th and up.

WHAT TO SAY NEXT, by Julie Buxbaum

The story: David and Kit have known each other in passing all their lives. It takes the death of Kit's father in a car accident to bring them together at an isolated lunch table in their high school cafeteria. David ("somewhere on the spectrum") and Kit strike up an unlikely friendship that goes in directions neither of them ever expected. But when David accidentally reveals Kit's biggest secret, can the damage ever be undone?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG-13 (the "s" word appears about every other page); Violence PG-13 (a bullying beat-down); Sexual content PG-13 (significant making out); Nudity G; Substance abuse R; GLBT content G; Adult themes (bullying, underage drinking, grief and guilt) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: I liked this one a lot. I feel like handing it to the mothers of several boys I know with Asperger's syndrome who wonder whether their sons will ever be able to get a date. It's always interesting to find a well-written book offering a glimpse into the alternative way the mind of a person with autism works. Hand this one to readers who liked Sophie Kinsella's "Finding Audrey." Best for 8th grade and up.

JANE, UNLIMITED, by Kristin Cashore

The story: Four alternative endings are offered for Jane's trip to Tu Reviens, a mansion on a storm-swept island off the coast of New England. There could be smugglers, pirates, FBI agents, art forgeries, or space pirates or a fantasy world awaiting, depending on which person Jane follows at the critical moment. Or there could be...none of the above. How to choose?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language R; Violence PG; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance Abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content PG; adult themes PG; overall rating PG-13 (although really, it's too confusing for MS readers).

Liz's comments: I was really a fan of Cashore's "Graceling" and "Fire" ("Bitterblue" not so much) and so was really looking forward to this one, which seemed like your standard "poor girl stumbles on a mystery at her rich friend's gala house party" until page 269, when the first set of questions have all been answered and the alternative dimension kicks in. Even though I knew it was coming, I found it disorienting--like a completely different book. Then the next section continued on in a totally different direction. Some people would find that challenging and cool (hence the starred reviews in some places) but I found it disjointed and strange, and would have liked the book better if it had just ended at page 269.

REBEL SEOUL, by Axie Oh

The story: Lee Jaewon spends his life one step ahead of the gangs who want to own him, the government that wants to make him their man, and the bill collectors who won't stop at a little torture. He has little to lose--but he finds that perhaps, there's something worth gaining. When he secures an internship that throws him together with Tera, a young woman formed and raised as a weapon of war, Jaewon can't help falling for her. Even if it will never work. Even if it could bring down the country. Even if they could both end up dead.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG-13; Violence R; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG-13; Magic and the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (parental abandonment, betrayal, political intrigue) PG; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: A futurist story starring genetically-enhanced warriors operating Transformer-like war machines. Any reader of Dan Wells' or Brandon Sanderson's YA sci-fi books will also like this one.

ASH AND QUILL, by Rachel Caine

The story: Jess Brightwell and his fellow team members from the Great Library are trapped in Philadelphia--a near-ghetto run by the Burners, who hate the Library and everything it stands for, and who would think nothing of killing them all unless they can offer a suitable bribe. When that bribe is found, it's out of the frying pan and into the fire as the group makes a getaway, only to fall into the clutches of Callum Brightwell. Callum might be Jess's father, but he'd never let family ties stand in the way of making a killer business deal...accent on killer.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG-13; Violence R; Sexual content PG-13 (fade-to-black sex that younger kids probably won't notice, if they ever even get as far as book 3); Nudity PG; Substance abuse PG-13; GLBT content PG-13; adult themes (political intrigue, family scheming, betrayal, difficult concepts) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: Another series I've been waiting a long time to read in order...imagine my chagrin when I realized, about 1/3 of the way through, that there's no way the author was going to be able to wrap things up by the end of book 3. Truthfully, this series is probably better for 9th-up, due to its denser prose and its challenging concepts, but for the 8th grade GT kids in any middle school who are looking for the next thing after Harry Potter--here you go.

THE EMPTY GRAVE, by Jonathan Stroud

The story: All the villains have assembled, most notably Penelope Fittes and Sir Rupert Gale. Also assembled: the ghosts--and who would ever have guessed that the villains were the SOURCE of the ghosts? Lockwood & Co. are ready to use their hard-won experience to take on all the bad guys and, as they do, deal with The Problem once and for all. Can four teens take on the most experienced agent in the world and come out on top?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; VIolence PG-13; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult PG-13; GLBT content G; adult themes (demons and those who deal with them) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: I've been waiting for several years to be able to read the entire series of 5 Lockwood & Co books, and I'm happy to say it was worth the wait. Such a fan of Jonathan Stroud! Recommend this to any good MS reader who's willing to do a little alternative thinking, and who likes a well-plotted story with plenty of creepy action. And when they're done with this series, send them over to the Bartimaeus books. Cuz why stop here?