I'd Rather Be Reading: The Delights & Dilemmas of the Reading Life

I'd Rather Be Reading: The Delights & Dilemmas of the Reading Life is by Anne Bogel. A charming book of nonfiction essays relating to the reading life. This slim volume covers everything from the books we hate to admit we haven't read, the dilemma of whether or not to abandon a book, the joy of finding bookish friends, and much more. Readers of all ages will thoroughly enjoy this book and easily see themselves in its pages. Ratings: 9th grade - 9 out of 10.

Silent to the Bone

Silent to the Bone is by E.L. Konigsburg. An engrossing realistic fiction tale of friendship, shame, and family. Connor's best friend Branwell is in a juvenile behavioral facility charged with hurting his infant step-sister Nikki, who is in a coma. Branwell refuses to speak and his father asks Connor to see if he can get through to him. Connor refuses to believe his friend is capable of hurting Nikki, but will he be able to break through Branwell's silence and discover the truth? Heartbreaking and powerful, this tale of friendship and love is a must read. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

The Dragon's Apprentice

The Dragon's Apprentice is by James A. Owen. The fifth book in the fantasy Imaginarium Geographica series. The Caretakers can finally return to the Archipelago of Dreams; as they prepare to return they receive a message from an old friend. The thread of History has unraveled and it needs to be repaired. Once they arrive at Tamerlane House they discover they are now stuck, due to the unraveling of History. Only Rose might be able to repair History and the Caretakers set out to help her, but things are not always as they seem and they will be opposed by a terrible enemy. Fans of the series will thoroughly love this installment. 

Ratings: 7th grade - 8 out of 10. 

Brief Cases

Brief Cases is by Jim Butcher. A fantasy grouping of short stories that come after Skin Game in the Dresden Files series. A collection of stories from a variety of points of view, not just Harry Dresden's. Fans of the series will enjoy stories from the point of view of Molly Carpenter, Butters, even Maggie and Mouse. There are three stories that incorporate Bigfoot into the menagerie of fantastical creatures contained in the series. A must read to whet your appetite for the next installment in the series. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 9 out of 10 - V (violence) - P (profanity) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the Secrets of the World's Happiest Country

The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the Secrets of the World's Happiest Country is by Helen Russell. Russell leaves her job as a British journalist when her husband is offered his dream job with LEGO. The couple moves to Denmark. Russell determines to discover why Denmark consistently rates as the happiest country in the world. Her examination is fair and covers everything from taxes, religion, sexual freedom, equality, weather, food, and of course, tradition. This memoir of her first year in Denmark is charming and funny, yet makes you think about what happiness really is.

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

El Deafo

El Deafo is by Cece Bell. A autobiographical graphic novel about a young Cece Bell, presented as a rabbit. After a childhood illness, Cece loses her hearing and struggles to fit in with "normal" children when she has to wear hearing aids. With the Phonic Ear she wears to school, she discovers she can hear her teacher wherever she is in the school building. She considers this a superpower and names her alter ego "El Deafo." A charming tale of a young girl struggling to be like everyone else, and yet be herself. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10. 

The Christmas Hirelings

The Christmas Hirelings is by Mary Elizabeth Braddon. An amazing work of historical fiction set in Victorian Cornwall. Sir John, his niece, and an old friend are gathered in Cornwall for Christmas. Sir John in a grumpy fit declares that Christmas is only fun with children around. His friend Danbury talks him into "hireing" some children for Christmas. He sets out to make good on his idea and returns with three young children whose presence for the holiday will change Sir John's life forever. This now ranks with A Christmas Carol as my second favorite Christmas story. A Reader's Corner Highly Recommended read for any season. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 10 out of 10. 

The Last Pirate of New York: A Ghost Ship, a Killer, and the Birth of a Gangster Nation

The Last Pirate of New York: A Ghost Ship, a Killer, and the Birth of a Gangster Nation is by Rich Cohen. The nonfiction story of the last man hanged in New York for piracy. One night a ghost ship is found in New York harbor, when boarded the ship is covered in blood, but no bodies - only several severed fingers. The police trace the killer through the underbelly of New York and arrest Albert Hicks. The trial and execution of Hicks was followed by everyone in New York. After his conviction, he confessed to a crime spree that reached back years and resulted in the death of hundreds of people. This is a magnificently told story of the seedy side of New York and the world of American gangsters that came after. Cohen's writing is very readable and easy to follow. A great introduction to nonfiction for lovers of pirates, crime novels, and the beginning of America.

Ratings: 10th grade - 9 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V (violence). 

Commonwealth

Commonwealth is by Ann Patchett. A realistic fiction story of two families, their history, and their future. It begins in Southern California when Bert Cousins attends the christening of a cop's new daughter and falls in love with the cop's wife. Beverly leaves her husband and marries Bert. Between the two families there are six children who must navigate the choppy waters of blended families. The story moves from past to present and is told from the point of view of all six children and the four parents. Fans of Patchett's work will thoroughly enjoy this novel.

Ratings: 11th grade - 7 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (mature thematic content).

Raptor

Raptor is by Paul Zindel. A science fiction gem for young readers. Zack's father is a paleontologist on a dig in Utah; he is severely injured and as he is being airlifted to a hospital asks Zack to find something he left behind. Zack convinces his Native American friend Uta to lead him back to where his dad was found. What they find is an egg, a raptor egg. When the mother comes looking for her baby, Zack and Uta find themselves in a battle for their lives.

Ratings: 6th grade - 7 out of 10. 

Hammered

Hammered is by Kevin Hearne. The third book in the fantasy Iron Druid series. Atticus needs to disappear from Arizona. He is too well known and too easy to find by all the gods and beings who want him dead. Before he leaves he must keep his word to the vampire, Leif, that he will help him kill Thor. Even though he is warned consistently that this would be a very bad thing to do, he must honor his word. He and Leif travel to Asgard with a werewolf, a sorcerer, and an army of frost giants to finally get rid of Thor without dying themselves. Fans of this series will enjoy this installment in this action-packed series. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 8 out of 10 - V (violence) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Something Rotten

Something Rotten is by Jasper Fforde. The fourth installment in the fantasy Thursday Next series. Thursday returns to the real world with her two-year-old son, Friday, and Hamlet. She needs to find a way to defeat Yorrick Kaine and keep the Goliath Corporation from taking over the world and get her husband back. She also needs to get her job at Spec Ops back, find the Minotaur, and fight off an assassin sent to kill her. Another amusing book in this charming series. The ending is a surprise you didn't see coming. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 8 out of 10. 

The Long Quiche Goodbye

The Long Quiche Goodbye is by Avery Aames. The fist book in the new realistic fiction Cheese Shop Mystery series. Charlotte runs her family's cheese shop. She has just partnered with her cousin to expand the business to include a wine shop connected with the cheese shop. She also has a crush on a local farmer and is hoping he will ask her for a date. At the opening of the new wine annex, a body is found outside her shop stabbed with one of her knives and her grandmother covered in blood near the body. When her grandmother is put on house arrest as the murder suspect, Charlotte sets out to prove her innocence, and still manage to get her date. A fun and enjoyable new cozy mystery series, complete with recipes. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 8 out of 10. 

Death By Dumpling

Death By Dumpling is by Vivien Chien. The first book in the realistic fiction Noodle Shop Mystery series. Lana Lee has been dumped by her boyfriend and quit her job; now she finds herself working as a waitress in her parents' Chinese restaurant. She is struggling to get her life back together and avoid her mother's attempts to find her a husband, when their landlord, Mr. Feng, turns up dead. Mr. Feng has a well known shell fish allergy, and when it is discovered that the dumplings Lana delivered for Mr. Feng's lunch contained shrimp, everyone at the restaurant finds themselves under suspicion. The handsome detective seems to believe her family's cook is responsible, so Lana sets out to prove him wrong and solve the mystery herself. A charming new cozy mystery series. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10.  

Ten Great Mysteries

Ten Great Mysteries is by Edgar Allan Poe.Ten great realistic fiction short stories by the incomparable Poe. The book includes a few well known stories such as "The Pit and the Pendulum," "The Tell-Tale Heart," and "The Murders in the Rue Morgue." It also includes such not-so-well-known gems as "A Tale of the Ragged Mountains," "The Black Cat," "A Descent into the Maelstrom," and "Metzengerstein." A must read for all Poe fans. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10. 

To Drink Coffee with a Ghost

To Drink Coffee with a Ghost is by Amanda Lovelace. A charming book of poetry that deals with family issues in a profound and moving way. Is it possible to love and hate someone at the same time? How do you move past your childhood trauma and into a healthy future? If you liked Milk & Honey, you will love these poems. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - AC (mature thematic content). 

Legendary

Legendary is by Stephanie Garber. The second book in the fantasy Caraval series. Scarlett Dragna has won Caraval; her sister Donatella must now take her turn at playing this deadly game. She wants to find her mother and she needs to pay a debt she owes to the mysterious benefactor who helped her get Scarlett into Caraval in the first place. Now Caraval is being played to celebrate Elantine's Day, the birthday of the Empress. Tella must win the game to learn Legend's real name to pay her debt and rescue her mother, but if she wins Legend and Caraval may be destroyed forever. What price is Tella willing to pay to achieve her goals? Will it cost her everything she holds dear? A fabulous sequel, can't wait to read the next installment in the series. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 9 out of 10 - V (violence) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Lethal White

Lethal White is by Robert Galbraith. The fourth installment in the realistic fiction Cormoran Strike series. Cormoran and Robin are back together after Robin's wedding and promotion to partner. Things are rocky between them, and between Robin and her new husband. When Billy, a mentally unstable young man, appears in Stirke's office and claims to have seen the murder of a child; Coromoran can't let it go. What if Billy is not as unstable as he appears? What if he did see a child murdered? As he and Robin try to discover the truth of Billy's visions, they find themselves involved in a sinister game of murder and family dysfunction. Fans of this series will love this installment. 

Ratings: Adult - 9 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V (violence) - AC (mature thematic content). 

Chime

Chime is by Franny Billingsley. Set in rural England, this fantasy novel mixes early 20th century England and the world of ancient legend and myth. Briony is a witch, she can see and hear the Old Ones who live in the swamp near her home. She is responsible for the death of her stepmother and the injury sustained by her sister which leaves Rose mentally disabled. When Eldric arrives in the village, Briony discovers she might be capable of love after all. But everything is not as it seems in this thoroughly creepy and mysterious fantasy. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - V (violence). 

Gatekeepers

Gatekeepers is by Robert Liparulo. The third book in the fantasy Dreamhouse Kings series. After their father is taken away by the police, Xander, David, and their younger sister are left alone in their creepy house. They still have to find their mother, who has been kidnapped, and taken to another time. They also need to avoid Taksidian who wants their home, the evil monsters who emerge from the door, and what's up with the elderly man who has just appeared and offered to help them? Fans of the series will enjoy this installment. 

Ratings: 6th grade - 6 out of 10 - V (violence). 

Beautiful Redemption

Beautiful Redemption is by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. The final book in the fantasy Beautiful Creatures series. Ethan is dead, sort of, and he must find his way back from the Otherworld to the real world so he can be with Lena. Once he discovers the truth about his death, he finds his return may not be impossible after all. Fans of the series will enjoy this action-packed finale. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10. 

An Elderly Lady is Up to No Good

An Elderly Lady is Up to No Good is by Helene Tursten. A charming realistic fiction book of short stories about an 88-year-old serial killer. Maud is an elderly Swedish lady with no family or friends. She also has no problem killing anyone she feels deserves to die. If you are a bossy neighbor, an abusive husband, a gold digging girlfriend, or anyone else who annoys Maud - watch out. These stories are hilarious and utterly enjoyable to read. I LOVE Maud, even if she is a killer. I might be Maud when I grow up, you never know. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 10 out of 10 - V (violence). 

The Well of Lost Plots

The Well of Lost Plots is by Jasper Fforde. The third book in the fantasy Thursday Next series. Thursday has moved to the Well of Lost Plots as part of the Character Exchange Program, she is trying to remember Landon, defeat Aornis, become an official Jurisfiction agent, and discover who is trying to kill her and why - just another day in the life of Thursday Next. Fans of the series will thoroughly enjoy this new installment. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 8 out of 10. 

Pan's Labyrinth: The Labyrinth of the Faun

Pan's Labyrinth: The Labyrinth of the Faun is by Guillermo del Toro and Cornelia Funke. A fantasy based on the movie by del Toro. Set during the Spanish Civil War, Ofelia and her mother travel into the forest to live with her new stepfather, an evil sadistic fascist named Vidal. The story alternates between Vidal tracking rebels, her mother's pregnancy, and Ofelia's adventures in the forest where she meets a faun and discovers she is really the princess of the Underworld and must perform three tasks before she can return to her home there. The story is also interspersed with stories which link the characters of the main story to past events. A wonderful book!

Ratings: 11th grade - 10 out of 10 - V (Violence) - AC (mature thematic content). 

The Grave's a Fine and Private Place

The Grave's a Fine and Private Place is by Alan Bradley. The ninth installment in the realistic fiction mystery Flavia de Luce series. After the death of her father, Flavia and her sisters go on a boat trip with Dogger. While dragging her hand in the river, Flavia feels something and grabs on; when she looks down she finds her hand hooked in the mouth of a corpse. Flavia, Dogger, and her sisters all team up to solve this mystery, which will lead to a new future for the de Luce family. Another charming installment in this wonderful series. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 9 out of 10. 

My Sister, the Serial Killer

My Sister, the Serial Killer is by Oyinkan Braithwaite. A fine realistic fiction novel set in Nigeria. Korede is a nurse in a local hospital, her sister is a serial killer. Every time she kills her latest boyfriend she calls Korede to help her cover up her crime and dispose of the body. But when a doctor that Korede has a crush on begins to date her sister, Korede must face some hard truths about herself and her family. An amazing novel by a promising new author. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - V (violence). 

A Study in Charlotte

A Study in Charlotte is by Brittany Cavallaro. The first book in the realistic fiction Charlotte Holmes series. An interesting re-working of the Sherlock Holmes stories. Arthur Conan Doyle wrote stories, but Holmes and Watson were real people. Their descendants find themselves in a boarding school in America, where a student is murdered in a way similar to a Holmes mystery and Jamie Watson and Charlotte Holmes are being framed for the murder. Fans of Holmes and Watson should enjoy this more modern re-telling. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 7 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Invision

Invision is by Sherrilyn Kenyon. The seventh installment in the fantasy Chronicles of Nick series. Nick just can't catch a break. All he wants is to get into a good college and spend time with his girlfriend; but unfortunately he's the Malachai - a demon destined to end the world. His friends seem to be missing and the Eye of Ananke is giving him visions of the further that don't make sense. All he can do is try to rescue his friends and figure out how not to end the world. Another day in the life of a young Cajun. Fans of this series will love this book as well. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10 - V (violence). 

Hexed

Hexed is by Kevin Hearne. The second book in the fantasy Iron Druid series. Atticus is trying to get his life back in order after his big battle in the Superstitions. He is trying to make things right with his lawyers, his new apprentice, and whats left of the Polish witch coven - not to mention the gods he has offended in some way. Little does he know that an evil witch coven is moving into the East Valley, a band of Bacchants are coming to Scottsdale, and a fallen angel is eating students in Apache Junction; and he will be hard pressed to find a spare moment. An action-packed addition to a fun series. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V (violence) - AC (some mature content). 

Sourdough

Sourdough is by Robin Sloan. A charming fantasy novel that is almost more magical realism than anything else. Lois works for a robotics company writing code so robot arms can perform more like human limbs. She is stressed by her job and doesn't eat or sleep as well as she should. Then she discovers two brothers who run a delivery service, serving the best spicy soup and bread she has ever eaten. She orders from them daily; until the day they show up on her doorstep. Their visas have been revoked and they are leaving the country. They gift Lois with their "special" sourdough starter, and Lois learns the joy of baking - and the joy of finding other pleasures in life. A strange, but charming tale of seeking and finding your life's purpose. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 8 out of 10. 

Thrice the Brinded Cat Hath Mew'd

Thrice the Brinded Cat Hath Mew'd is by Alan Bradley. The eighth novel in the historical fiction Flavia de Luce mystery series. Flavia has returned from her failed boarding school experience in Canada to find her father seriously ill in the hospital. Trying to kill time until she is allowed to visit, she agrees to deliver a letter from the vicar's wife to an old woodworker, only to find him hanging upside down from his bedroom door - dead. Flavia decides to solve the mystery, if only to keep her mind off her father's illness. Another excellent installment in this charming series. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10. 

A Man Called Ove

A Man Called Ove is by Fredrik Backman. A wonderfully written realistic fiction novel. Ove is an elderly man who just wants to kill himself so he can join his beloved wife, who has already passed on. He has planned things out and is about to hang himself when he is interrupted by his new neighbors, "the Lanky One," "the Pregnant One," and their children; who announce their arrival by running their U-Haul into Ove's mailbox. The new arrivals upset Ove's well-ordered world and force him to interact with people again. The grumpy old man next door discovers his life has more meaning then he believed and his neighbors discover first impressions can be very deceiving. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 10 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Storm of Locusts

Storm of Locusts is by Rebecca Roanhorse. The second in the dystopian fantasy Sixth World series. Kai Arviso and Caleb Goodacre have been kidnapped by a strange doomsday cult led by a figure called the White Locust. When the Goodacre twins show up at Maggie's door and elicit her aid in tracking down their brother and Kai, Maggie does not realize she will have to leave Dine and venture beyond the Wall to find her friends. Filled with Native American mythology in a dystopian setting, this series is a fun and unique adventure. The violence makes it problematic for younger fantasy lovers, but it is a fast-paced, action-packed series. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - V (violence) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Blameless

Blameless is by Gail Carriger. The third novel in the fantasy Parasol Protectorate series. Alexia has been cast out by her husband Lord Maccon, as well as by her own family. Queen Victoria has also removed her from the Shadow Council. She decides to travel to Italy to discover proof that she can wave in her husband's face that it is possible for her to carry his child. The Vampires want her dead, the Templars want her studied and used as a weapon, and she is being attacked by mechanical ladybugs. A fun romp of a series, and this installment is no exception. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

A Visit from the Good Squad

A Visit from the Goon Squad is by Jennifer Egan. A strange realistic fiction offering centering around a variety of personalities and their lives. Bennie Salazar is a once famous record executive and Sasha is his assistant. The entire novel circles around these two individuals and others who move in and out of their orbit. The book does not really have a "plot" and is not written in a linear fashion. It is interesting in its ability to link various people and their impact on the lives of others. 

Ratings: 6 out of 10 - Adult - AC (mature thematic content) - P (profanity). 

The Sword-Edged Blonde

The Sword-Edged Blonde is by Alex Bledsoe. The first in the fantasy Eddie LaCrosse series. Eddie is a sword for hire: finding what needs to be found, killing who needs to be killed. When he is hired by a king to find his missing daughter, he has no idea this case will lead him back into his past. He will have to face his demons and his past failures to help his best friend prove his wife did not kill their infant child. A strange cross between a modern detective story and high fantasy. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - AC (mature thematic content) - V (violence). 

Our Souls at Night

Our Souls at Night is by Kent Haruf. A magnificent realistic fiction novella about two lonely senior citizens in a small town. Louis has been living in his house alone since his wife died; one day his neighbor, an widow named Addie, shows up at his house with a proposition. Would he mind coming over to her home at night and sleeping next to her - just to lay in bed and talk. Louis is shocked by the request, but is so lonely he decides to take her up on her offer. This charming little book makes you feel what it is like to be elderly and alone and in need of someone to just talk to. A Reader's Coroner Highly Recommended Read; this book is touching and deserves a special place on your shelf. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 10 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Hounded

Hounded is by Kevin Hearne. The first in the fantasy Iron Druid series. Atticus O'Sullivan is the last living Druid. He runs an occult bookshop in Tempe, Arizona, and attempts to hide from gods who want him dead - oh, and also want his sword, Fragarach. He has managed to stay hidden for centuries, but now his enemies have found him. He must differentiate his friends from his enemies and manage to kill a god. The series incorporates gods from multiple pantheons, as well as werewolves, witches, and vampires. It is a fantastic series for fantasy lovers. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 9 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (some mature thematic content) - V (violence). 

Half-Resurrection Blues

Half-Resurrection Blues is by Daniel Jose Older. The first book in the urban fantasy Bone Street Rumba series. Carlos is an inbetweener, half alive and half dead. He works as an agent for the New York Council of the Dead handling their "undead" problems. When a sorcerer and a horde of nkgs (who are creatures that can permanently kill the undead) attack his city. Carlos must find a way to defeat them without becoming "all" dead himself. A very cool take on ghosts; a creepy and fun series. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (mature thematic content). 

The Perplexing Theft of the Jewel in the Crown

The Perplexing Theft of the Jewel in the Crown is by Vaseem Khan. The second book in the realistic fiction Baby Ganesh series. Ex-inspector Chopra is enjoying his retirement running his restaurant and his detective agency. His wife Poppy, talks him into going to see the British Crown Jewels which are on display at the museum. While they are there, there is an explosion, Chopra and Poppy find themselves unconscious, and when they awake the British Royal Crown has been stolen. When an old friend is accused of stealing the crown, Chopra decides to discover who really stole the historic jewel and to return it to the Queen. Of course, he can't do this without help from Ganesh, who has some adventures of his own. Fans of the series will love this book and eagerly wait the next installment.

Ratings: 10th grade - 9 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

In the Woods

In the Woods is by Tana French. The first book in the Dublin Murder Squad realistic fiction mystery series. Rob Ryan is a detective on the Dublin Murder Squad and he has a secret. Twenty years ago he went into the woods with two of his friends and he was the only survivor, but he doesn't remember what happened. When a young girl is killed in the same woods, Ryan and his partner must decide if the new murder is related to the old disappearances. A excellent start to a fun series for crime and mystery lovers.

Ratings: Adult - 8 out of 10 - V (violence) - AC (mature thematic content). 

Changeless

Changeless is by Gail Carriger. The second book in the fantasy Parasol Protectorate series. When supernaturals start to become human both Alexia and her werewolf husband, Lord Maccon, are drawn into the attempt to discover who is causing this problem and how to stop it. They find themselves in Scotland where Lord Maccon must face his past and Alexia must face her future. Fans of the series will enjoy this installment. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 -  AC (some mature thematic content). 

Noir

Noir is by Christopher Moore. Moore's hilarious attempt at combining noir fiction and science fiction. Set in San Francisco in 1947, Sammy (a bartender) falls for Stilton (a dame) and hijinx ensue. This romp takes us all over San Francisco and covers every kind of individual who called it home in 1947: African Americans, Chinese, Italians, lesbians, ladies of the night, corrupt police and government officials, the Men in Black and of course, an alien strait from Roswell. Fans of Moore's special brand of humor will thoroughly enjoy this delightful romp. Sam Spade meets Men in Black. 

Ratings: Adult - 9 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V (violence) - AC (mature thematic content). 

Tyrannosaur Canyon

Tyrannosaur Canyon is by Douglas Preston. A fast paced science fiction thriller. A moon rock has been missing for thirty years, but what does this have to do with a murdered dinosaur hunter in the New Mexican desert and the vet who discovers him? Tom Broadbent is riding through the desert when he hears shots, upon investigating he discovers a dying man who hands him a diary and makes him promise to get it to his daughter. Unfortunately he dies before Tom learns his name. His desire to keep his promise to a dying man drags Tom and his wife into a harrowing adventure involving a killer, scientists, archaeologists, the police, the military, and a mysterious government agency all vying for the find-of-a-life time hidden somewhere in Tyrannosaur Canyon. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (some mature thematic content) - V (violence). 

A Grown-Up Guide to Dinosaurs

A Grown-Up Guide to Dinosaurs is narrated by Ben Garrod. An interesting Audible Original discussing the history and science around dinosaurs: how they got here, where they went, and what we have discovered about them from fossils. 

Ratings: 7th grade - 7 out of 10. 

Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks

Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks is by Annie Spence. A charming book of letters from a librarian to the books she encounters over the course of her job. Book lovers will enjoy this tremendously, especially the letter to Fifty Shades of Grey.

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity). 

Salsa Nocturna: Stories

Salsa Nocturna: Stories is by Daniel Jose Older. A set of short stories set in the fantasy world of the Bone Street Rumba series. Per Amazon, "a 300 year-old story collector enlists the help of the computer hacker next door to save her dying sister. A half-resurrected cleanup man for Death’s sprawling bureaucracy faces a phantom pachyderm, doll-collecting sorceresses and his own ghoulish bosses. Gordo, the old Cubano that watches over the graveyards and sleeping children of Brooklyn, stirs and lights another Malagueña. Down the midnight streets of New York, a whole invisible universe churns to life in this collection of Bone Street Rumba tales."

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V (violence) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

English Romantic Poetry

English Romantic Poetry is edited by Stanley Appelbaum. A selection of English romantic poems by such fantastic poets as William Blake, John Keats, William Wordsworth, Lord Byron, Samuel Coleridge, and Percy Bysshe Shelley. A must read for all poetry lovers. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 9 out of 10.

Vampires in the Lemon Grove

Vampires in the Lemon Grove is by Karen Russell. A charmingly creepy book of fantasy short stories. A group of girls find themselves sold into slavery in a silk factory where they slowly turn into silk worms. A massage therapist discovers she has the power to heal when she manipulates the tattoo on the back of a soldier with PTSD. A group of boys discover a scarecrow which resembles a classmate they bullied and are plagued by guilt. And of course, the title story of two vampires in a lemon grove trying to slack their thirst for blood, and other spooky tales. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V (violence) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Closer

Closer is by Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams. The fourth book in the fantasy Tunnels series. While Chester and Martha have made it back to Topsoil, Will, Elliott, and his dad are stuck in the mysterious world at the center of the Earth. Unfortunately, the evil Rebecca twins are also there and are trying to retrieve the Dominion virus Will stole to continue their evil plans. 

Ratings: 8th grade - 7 out of 10 - V (violence) 

Freefall

Freefall is by Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams. The third book in the fantasy Tunnels series. Will and Chester freefall into the Pore followed by the evil Rebecca twins who possess the Dominion virus. They reach the bottom and land on a spongy fungus with an injured Elliott. They must find a way to survive and prevent the Styxx from spreading the Dominion plague Topsoil. 

Ratings: 8th grade - 7 out of 10 - V (violence). 

The Emperor of Nihon-Ja

The Emperor of Nihon-Ja is by John Flanagan. The tenth installment in the fantasy Ranger's Apprentice series. Horace has traveled to Nihon-Ja to study their fighting skills and has befriended their Emperor who is trying hard to be an emperor for all his people not just the elite. When a coup is attempted and Horace saves the Emperor's life, he finds himself in the middle of a civil war. When word reaches Halt, Will, Evanlyn, and Alyss, all of his friends come to Horace's aid. 

Ratings: 7th grade - 8 out of 10. 

Carmilla

Carmilla: A Tragic Love Story is by J. Sheridan Le Fanu. A wonderfully creepy Gothic fantasy tale. Carmilla is a vampire who insinuates herself into the lives of various young girls and then kills them. The story begins when young Laura, living with her father in a desolate area of Austria, witnesses a carriage accident and is convinced to give shelter to Carmilla, the "daughter" of the woman who owned the carriage. Carmilla however, is not what she seems, and as strange deaths began to occur around the schloss, Laura and her father discover their house guest is not as harmless as she appears. An absolute must for scary Halloween tales. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 9 out of 10 - V (Violence). 

Camp Red Moon

Camp Red Moon is by R.L. Stine. A charming addition to the fantasy Goosebumps series. All the stories are set at Camp Red Moon, definitely not a camp I ever want to attend. All kinds of spooky things happen at this Camp, from ghosts seeking revenge to life forms that take over other people's lives, to robots seeking world domination. Kids will love these scary stories. 

Ratings: 5th grade - 6 out of 10. 

The River Why

The River Why is by David James Duncan. A beautifully written realistic fiction novel centered around fly fishing, nature, and family. Gus Orivston leaves his fishing-crazed family and takes a cabin in the Pacific Northwest to fish and, unbeknownst to him, find himself. The novel is laugh-out-loud funny in places and poignantly beautiful in others. The descriptions of nature are magnificently written and the sections on one man's search for happiness profound. The characters are real and really funny. A must read for fisherman and nature lovers, and anyone who wants to feel in touch with other people and nature. 

Ratings: Adult - 8 out of 10. 

One Rainy Day in May

One Rainy Day in May is by Mark Z. Danielewski. The first in the cyper-punk series called The Familiar. I would love to tell you what this book is about, but I'm not quite sure. It is written in a very experimental way and covers a strange variety of characters, from gang members to scientists to recovering addicts to game designers and therapists. It seems to center around a young girl named Xanther, whose father takes her out to buy a dog but instead rescues and brings home something else. This book is a challenging read, but worth the try if for nothing but the novelty.

Ratings: Adult - 6 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V (violence). 

Beartown

Beartown is by Fredrik Backman. The first in the realistic fiction Beartown duology. Beartown is a small town in the middle of the forest; a community that is slowing dying as its residents have to leave to find jobs. The only hope they have of saving their town is their junior ice hockey team. As the team prepares to complete in the national semifinals, everyone in Beartown is depending on the Bears for the future of the town. The team centers around Kevin, a talent the team's general manager, Peter, is depending on to secure a victory for the team. One night, and one horrible series of decisions, could bring the team and the town to its knees. A magnificent look at what people will do when driven to protect the people, town, and sport they love. A fantastic novel!!

Ratings: 11th grade - 9 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (mature thematic content). 

Beastly Bones

Beastly Bones is by William Ritter. The second in the fantasy Jackaby series. Abigail and her employer Jackaby are called in to investigate two suspicious murders surrounding an archaeological dig near New Fiddleham that has uncovered the bones of a massive creature, possibly a dinosaur. But nothing surrounding Jackaby is straightforward, and they soon find themselves fighting for their lives. An enjoyable continuation of a fun series. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10 - V (violence). 

The Lady in Gold: The Extraordinary Tale of Gustav Klimt's Masterpiece: Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer

The Lady in Gold: The Extraordinary Tale of Gustav Klimt's Masterpiece: Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer is by Anne Marie O'Connor. A magnificent nonfiction look at the history of Klimt's masterpiece and the people involved in its creation, theft, and recovery. When the Bloch-Bauer's fled Austria after the country welcomed the Nazi's, all Jewish property was looted and stolen. Klimt's portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer survived the war, but was not returned by the Austrian government. O'Connor walks us through every step of battle to return the painting to the Bloch-Bauer heirs, one of the most famous in the ongoing battle to return art stolen by the Nazi's to its rightful owners. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10. 

Lost in a Good Book

Lost in a Good Book is by Jasper Fforde. The second book in the charming Thursday Next fantasy series. Thursday Next is a renowned agent in the SpecOps literary crimes unit. After her adventure in the Eyre Affair, Thursday hopes to settle down with her husband and prepare for the birth of their first child. Then she is recruited to be a Prose Resource Operative, her time traveling father informs her the world is about to end, and Goliath Corporation eradicates her husband from her current timeline. Thursday must retrieve a vanquished enemy from Poe's "The Raven," save the world from certain destruction, complete her apprenticeship with Miss Havisham, avoid capture by both her own agency and Goliath, and fulfill all of her publicity tour obligations. It's just another day in the life of a literary detective. This series is a total delight, especially for bibliophiles. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10. 

Binti: The Night Masquerade

Binti: The Night Masquerade is by Nnedi Okorafor. The final installment in the science fiction Binti trilogy. Binti and Okwu have returned to Earth to Binti's home. Unfortunately, the ancient Meduse/Khoush conflict has followed her home. While she is away from her village the Khoush attack her family and attempt to kill Okwu. Believing her family to be dead, Binti and her friend Mwinyi hurry back to her village to try and stop the ancient war once and for all. But the attempt will cost Binti more than she ever imagined. A fantastic ending to a wonderful series. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 9 out of 10. 

The Last Little Blue Envelope

The Last Little Blue Envelope is by Maureen Johnson. The sequel to Johnson's realistic fiction novel Thirteen Little Blue Envelopes. Ginny is getting ready to apply to colleges after her trip to Europe over the summer. She still regrets that she never got to complete her Aunt Peg's quest. Then she receives an email from a boy in England; he has come into possession of her old backpack with the letters inside. He wants her to come to England and finish her journey. Ginny is thrilled, but of course things are not as they appear. A charming conclusion to a fantastic story.

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10. 

The Gracekeepers

The Gracekeepers is by Kirsty Logan. A haunting dystopian fiction novel set in a strange and water-covered world. Callanish is a Gracekeeper, she officiates at water burials since most of the land has sunk beneath the waves. She feels she is atoning for the sins of her past, a past that still haunts her. North works in a floating circus owned by Red Gold, the ringmaster, she dances with her bear to the delight of the crowds. Red Gold wishes her to marry his son, but North has a secret that hopefully will save her from a marriage she doesn't want. Told from the perspectives of various characters in the book, this novel is sad, yet hopeful at the same time. It shows us a world that has changed once, and is on the verge of changing yet again. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 8 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Dept. of Speculation

Dept. of Speculation is by Jenny Offill. A charming realistic fiction book about marriage: the good, the bad, and the ugly. They referred to their love as "Dept. of Speculation" to represent all of the mysteries their future contained. Then they got married, had a child and tried to juggle jobs, bed bugs, lice, rodents, childcare, and all of the other everyday trials of married life. When their marriage is on the verge of destruction, the wife tries to look back and figure out how they arrived at this breaking point and where they will go from here. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 7 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (mature thematic content).

Verses for the Dead

Verses for the Dead is by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child. The 18th installment in the realistic fiction Agent Pendergast series. There has been a changing of the guard at the New York FBI headquarters and the new boss wants to get rid the famous pain-in-the-neck agent Pendergast. When a serial killer begins killing women in Miami and leaving their hearts at the graves of suicide victims he sees his chance to kill two birds with one stone. He sends Pendergast down to Florida to handle the case, with a partner to report back every time Pendergast steps out of line. Another great installment in this amazing series. Fans will not be disappointed. 

Ratings: Adult - 9 out of 10 - V (violence) - AC (mature thematic contents). 

Endlessly

Endlessly is by Kiersten White. The final book in the Paranormalcy fantasy series. IPCA has been taken over by "new management" who demand Evie to return to work for them. When she refuses and attempts to discover what has happened to Raquel, the former head of IPCA, who has gone missing she discovers there is much more going on than she thought. Lend's mother wants her to open a gate to send the immortals and faeries back to their own world, but if she agrees what will it cost her? Will Lend leave since he is half-immortal? When Reth reappears and shows her the humans the Dark Queen is kidnapping, Evie must decide what she is willing to sacrifice to save them. Fans of the series will enjoy this final installment.

Ratings: 8th grade - 7 out of 10. 

Supernaturally

Supernaturally is by Kiersten White. The second in the Paranormalcy fantasy series. Evie has finally escaped from the clutches of the IPCA. She is going to high school and living above a diner with her vampire roommate and falling more and more in love with her half-water elemental boyfriend. Then IPCA asks her to come back to work for them.They have found a way to travel that doesn't involve faeries, but a strange teenager named Jack. Then Evie's faerie ex-boyfriend Reth returns and Evie is caught in the middle of a war between the Seelie and Unseelie courts. 

Ratings: 8th grade - 7 out of 10. 

The Thirteenth Tale

The Thirteenth Tale is by Diane Setterfield. A poignant realistic fiction story about families and the secrets they keep. Vida Winter is a famous author who has managed to elude every attempt to ferret out information on her past. Margaret Lea works in a bookstore owned by her father, but wants to be a biographer. When the elusive Vida Winter summons Margaret to write her official biography, Margaret is stunned. She accepts the job and soon discovers that there are layers upon layers of secrets surrounding Ms. Winter's past. A beautifully written and touching story.

Ratings: 10th grade - 9 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content).

Kraken

Kraken is by China Mieville. An astonishing and creepy work of fantasy. Billy Harrow works at London's Natural History Museum which houses a perfectly preserved specimen of giant squid. One day as he proceeds to lead a tour to view the squid, Harrow discovers it has been stolen, but no one is able to discover how the theft was committed. In a London filled with magic, myth, and cultists, Harrow finds himself swept up into a battle that could bring about the end of the world. This book is strange and creepy, and you wonder until the end exactly what is going on. 

Ratings: Adult - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (mature thematic content) - V (violence). 

Caraval

Caraval is by Stephanie Garber. The first in the Carval fantasy trilogy; this story is deep and dark and a total joy to read. Carval is a mystical performance held yearly by the mysterious Legend. You are invited to join the performance by invitation only, although many come just to watch. Scarlett has always wanted to attend a performance and for years has written to Legend to seek an invitation. On the eve of her arranged marriage to a man she has never met, she receives the long-awaited invitation. Enlisting the aid of a young sailor named Julian, Scarlett's sister Tella arranges for them to sneak away from their abusive father and head to Caraval. The minute they arrive Tella is kidnapped and Scarlett discovers Legend has made Tella a part of this year's performance. The first to find her wins. Scarlett and Julian rush to decipher the mysterious clues that will enable her to win the game and find her sister before it is too late. A magnificently plotted and original work. I can't wait for the next book in the series. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 9 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

The Devil & Sherlock Holmes: Tales of Murder, Madness, & Obsession

The Devil & Sherlock Holmes: Tales of Murder, Madness, & Obsession is by David Grann. Grann collects a variety of nonfiction stories which reveal that truth is stranger than fiction. Grann investigates the murder of a Sherlock Holmes fan, tracks a con artist, searches for the elusive giant squid, and investigates the case of a man who may have been executed for a crime he didn't commit. A fascinating collection that is a great deal of fun to read. 

Ratings: 10th grade - 8 out of 10. 

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering & Organizing

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering & Organizing is by Marie Kondo. A charming little nonfiction book on how to re-vamp your household and dispose of the things you don't need and re-organize the things you do. Can't agree with disposing of books, but the rest was fascinating and thought provoking. It did revolutionize the way I fold my clothes and organize my closet and drawer space. Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10.

The Search for Truth

The Search for Truth is by Kaza Kingsley. The third installment in the Eric Rex fantasy series. Eric must continue his quests to become the rightful king of Alpyium. This time he must repair the Substance which holds Alpyium and the mortal world together. To do this he must defeat a Manticore and secure the five Awen, but can he do so without risking his own life and that of his friends as well. 

Ratings: 6th grade - 7 out of 10. 

Etiquette and Espionage

Etiquette and Espionage is by Gail Carriger. The first book in the Finishing School YA fantasy series. Set in the same world as the Parasol Protectorate, this is the story of Sophronia who is sent by her family to be a student at Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality because she can't behave like a lady. Only Sophronia discovers the school is not exactly what it seems to be and finds herself and her new friends involved in plot to steal a new mechanical prototype. Steampunk meets Victorian England with werewolves and vampires. Fans of the adult series will enjoy this one as well. 

Ratings: 7th grade - 8 out of 10. 

Beautiful Chaos

Beautiful Chaos is by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. The third book in the Beautiful Creatures fantasy series. Ethan and Lena have returned from the Great Barrier, but the effects of the order being broken are being felt all over Gatlin by mortals and supernaturals alike. Ethan must decide what he is willing to sacrifice to save Lena, his friends, and his town from the end of the world. Fans of the series will enjoy this installment. 

Ratings: 9th grade - 8 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

The Affair of the Mysterious Letter

The Affair of the Mysterious Letter is by Alexis Hall. One of the strangest fantasy novels I have ever read. This is a bizarre re-working of the Sherlock Holmes tales. The sorceress Shaharazad Haas takes a new roommate named Captain John Wyndham, fresh back from the wars. When an old "friend" of Shaharazad's arrives and informs the sorceress that she is being blackmailed, the game is afoot. A very strange mix of gender-bending fantasy and Sherlockian lore. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 7 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content).  

The Lady from the Black Lagoon: Hollywood Monsters & the Lost Legacy of Milicent Patrick

The Lady from the Black Lagoon: Hollywood Monsters & the Lost Legacy of Milicent Patrick is by Mallory O'Meara. A fascinating nonfiction biography which tells the story of Milicent Patrick the woman who designed the costume for The Creature from the Black Lagoon. O'Meara leads us through her search for information on this amazing woman and her own experiences working in Hollywood. Patrick was an engrossing persona and it is a shame more is not known about her. O'Meara deserves credit for bringing her to the attention of readers everywhere. 

Ratings: Adult - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (mature thematic content). 

Akata Witch

Akata Witch is by Nnedi Okorafor. The first in the Akata Witch fantasy series. Sunny was born in America to Nigerian parents; she is also an albino. When the family moves back to Nigeria, Sunny meets new friends and begins to discover things about herself she never knew. She is one of the Leopard People and has amazing magical abilities. She and her new friends must track down and defeat another Leopard person who is mutilating and killing children in an attempt to bring an ancient evil back into the world. An amazing series!

Ratings: 10th grade - 9 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Watcher in the Woods

Watcher in the Woods is by Robert Liparulo. The second fantasy installment in the Dreamhouse Kings series. Xander and David desperately want to find their mother, who has been kidnapped by a mysterious man and taken through one of numerous portals in their new home that lead to other times and places. Xander does not feel his dad is doing enough to find his mother, but David feels his father just wants them to search for her safely. While tensions increase within the family, a mysterious man attempts to drive the Kings from their home which will prevent them from continuing to their search. 

Ratings:6th grade - 7 out of 10. 

I Hunt Killers

I Hunt Killers is by Barry Lyga. The first in the realistic fiction thriller Jasper Dent series. Jasper Dent is the son of the nation's most prolific serial killer. His father raised him to follow in his footsteps, but Jazz doesn't want to be like his father. He believes his father killed his mother and he lives with his paternal grandmother, who is senile on her best days. When bodies start showing up in town, killed in ways that mirror his father's murders, Jazz decides he needs to catch the killer to convince people, including himself, that he didn't do it. This book is both gory and psychologically scary, but it is really good. So if this is your jam, you will LOVE this novel. I can't wait for the second in the series. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 9 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V(violence) - AC (mature thematic content). 

The Coroner's Lunch

The Coroner's Lunch is by Colin Cotterill. The first installment of his historical fiction mystery series, the Dr. Siri Paiboun Mysteries. Set in 1970s Laos, Dr. Siri has been appointed the country's coroner by the Communist government. He is in his seventies and really just wants to retire, but when the Party calls, a Comrade answers. Dr. Siri trained in medicine in France when he was young and has no training as a coroner, but he does his best. When the wife of a party leader drops dead at a lunch, Dr. Siri suspects she was poisoned all right, but it wasn't the food. While he is trying to determine what to do with this knowledge, another corpse arrives that opens another political can of worms. Suddenly, Dr. Siri is being shot at and doesn't know who to trust in a country where no one trusts anyone. A totally enjoyable series, I can't wait to read the next book.

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity). 

Sparrowhawk

Sparrowhawk is by Delilah S. Dawson. A fantasy complication of the five books of the Sparrowhawk comic book series. Artemisia is dragged into the realm of Faerie when the evil Faerie Queen takes her place in the real world. Artemisia must fight her way to the queen's castle and defeat enemies along the way - but every fey she kills makes her more fey herself and less human. A tragic, but fascinating series. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 7 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V (violence) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

The Organized Mind: Thinking Straight in the Age of Information Overload

The Organized Mind: Thinking Straight in the Age of Information Overload is by Daniel J. Levitin. A fascinating look at the way our brain works and how it organizes information, both accurately and problematically. A little dry, but VERY interesting. 

Ratings: Adult - 8 out of 10. 

Sabotaged

Sabotaged is by Margaret Peterson Haddix. The third installment in the science fiction "Missing" series. Jonah and Katherine must help Andrea, who is really Virginia Dare, reunite with her tracer. They land in the wrong time period and try to figure out what's happening without changing history, or is changing history really such a bad thing? Can't it be changed for the better? Fans of the series will enjoy this installment.

Ratings: 7th grade - 6 out of 10. 

The Forgetting Time

The Forgetting Time is by Sharon Guskin. An interesting realistic fiction novel about a four-year-old boy named Noah, who claims he is someone else. Janie's son keeps telling her he wants to go home to his mother and that his name is not Noah it's Tommy, and he is terrified of water and refuses to take a bath. Janie has tried everything to understand what is wrong with her son. She finally calls in a psychiatrist who threw away his career to research the possibility of reincarnation. Anderson believes that Noah is the reincarnation of a boy named Tommy and he and Janie set out to find Noah's "other" family. This search will have amazing ramifications for everyone involved. 

Ratings: Adult - 7 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Soulless

Soulless is by Gail Carriger. This is the first book in the fantasy series called "The Parasol Protectorate." Alexia Tarabotti is a preternatural, she is soulless. When she comes in contact with a supernatural (vampire, werewolf, etc) she counteracts their supernatural powers and renders them human as long as she is touching them. When she is attacked by a vampire at a ball and has to to kill him; she is forced to deal with Lord Maccon (a Scottish werewolf Alpha) who cleans up these kinds of messes for Queen Victoria. When vampires and werewolves begin to disappear, Alexia and Lord Maccon must discover what is happening, if they can keep their hands off each other long enough. A charming and well written novel, can't wait to read the rest of the series. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 9 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Magpie Murders

Magpie Murders is by Anthony Horowitz. An interesting cross between realistic and historical fiction. This is the story of a murder mystery writer and his final book. Alan Conway is a British mystery writer who is famous for his Atticus Pund series, set in 1950s England. His editor Susan Ryeland receives his latest novel and begins reading it to discover that the final chapter is missing. Immediately after this Conway commits suicide - or does he? As Susan tries to track down the missing last chapter she discovers that the secret to Alan's death my be found in his final novel. This book is interestingly written in that you are allowed to read both Alan's novel and follow Susan as she tries to find the missing chapter. 

Ratings: Adult - 9 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Fates and Furies

Fates and Furies is by Lauren Groff. A realistic fiction novel about a playwright and his wife and the ups and downs of their marriage. The first half of the book is told from Lotto's point of view and the second half from Mathilde's point of view. All of the characters are quite flawed and some parts of the story are uncomfortable to read. It was an interesting read, but I don't think it lived up to the hype surrounding it. 

Ratings: Adult - 5 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (mature thematic content) - S (sexual content). 

The Queen of the Night

The Queen of the Night is by Alexander Chee. A sweeping historical fiction novel set during the Second Empire in Paris. Lillet Berne is a legendary falcon soprano in the Paris Opera. She is presented with an opera written for her and discovers when she reads it that it is based on her life; a life which she believes very few people even know about. The story follows her as she attempts to discover who wrote the opera and if they are trying to ruin her, and also flashes back in time to allow her to tell her own story. A bit hefty, but a good read and a great exploration of the period. 

Ratings: Adult - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (mature thematic content). 

A Gentleman in Moscow

A Gentleman in Moscow is by Amor Towles. A magnificent work of historical fiction set in Russia after the Communist takeover. In 1922, Count Alexander Rostov is found to be an aristocrat and sentenced by a Bolshevik tribunal to spend the rest of his life under house arrest in Mocow's famous Hotel Metropol. He now lives in a small attic room and watches the decades of change go by, never able to leave the hotel. This is a wonderful look at the Communist takeover of Russia through the eyes of a former noble. Count Rostov handles his reduced fortunes with grace, never losing his breeding and sense of humor. This is a Reader's Corner Must Read Book! Enjoy!

Ratings: 11th grade - 10 out of 10 - AC (some mature thematic content).

The Girl With All the Gifts

The Girl With All the Gifts is by M.R. Carey. The first in the science fiction dystopian Hungry Plague series. A plague has reduced most of humanity to zombie-like cannibals called "hungries." Melanie is a young girl in a special school, she spends her days locked in a chair and taking classes. Her favorite teacher is Miss Justineau. She begins to discover that she is not being protected, she is being studied. When the compound she's in is razed, Melanie, Miss Justineau, a scientist, and two soldiers try to find their way to another safe base near London. On the way, Melanie learns the truth about herself, her future, and the future of the human race.

Ratings: 10th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (some mature thematic content) - V (violence). 

City of Endless Night

City of Endless Night is by Douglas Present and Lincoln Child. The seventeenth installment in the realistic fiction mystery Pendergast series. Pendergast and D'Agosta try to find the identity of a killer who is beheading the rich and famous. Fans of the series will love this book as well. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity) - V (violence) - AC (some mature thematic content). 

Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World

Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World is by William H. McRaven. A short book based on McRaven's commencement speech at the University of Texas at Austin. A must read for everyone, but especially students of all ages. The speech itself is well worth listening to on youtube.

Ratings: 7th grade - 10 out of 10. 

Missing Pieces

Missing Pieces is by Carly Anne West. The first realistic fiction installment in the Hello Neighbor series - based on the children's video game. Nick is 12; his father is a newspaper publisher and his mother is a university professor. They move to a new town when Nick's father gets a new job at the local paper. Nick meets the strange family across the street, the Peterson's. Their son Aaron seems to be just the friend Nick needs right now, but Aaron's mother and sister are a little strange and his father is down right scary. "The Burbs" for kids. A cute children's book for young readers. 

Ratings: 6th grade - 6 out of 10. 

Lab Girl

Lab Girl is by Hope Jahren. An autobiographical memoir of geobiologist Hope Jahren. The tale follows Jahren from her childhood to the present as she completes university and tries to make a name from herself as a female scientist. The autobiographical parts are interspersed with fascinating information on plants. She and Bill, her eccentric lab partner, travel the world to do research and move to various universities chasing grant money and tenure. Jahren also discusses her mental health issues and her obvious love for her husband and son. An excellent read for anyone interested in science, especially girls. 

Ratings: 11th grade - 8 out of 10 - P (profanity). 

The Girls

The Girls is by Emma Cline. A historical/realistic fiction knock off of the Manson family story. Set in California in 1969, and then flipping forward in time, this is the story of Evie. In 1969, she sees several girls in the park and watches them dumpster dive for food. She is especially attracted to Suzanne, who seems so free and mesmerizing. She is drawn into their world. They live on a "ranch" and are enthralled by Russel, a clear Manson-esque character. Evie, already, disenchanted by her home life, becomes more drawn in to the group. Then comes the night when members of the group are sent out to kill for Russell. The book seems to focus more on what would make a "normal" girl from an upper middle class background join a group like Manson's and stay. 

Ratings: Adult - 6 out of 10 - P (profanity) - AC (mature thematic content) - S (non-graphic sexual content).