se+notes

COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES YEAR: WHO WILL DO THE FOLLOWING: ___Contact author/publisher:__ _Get & Send award:

___Organize materials:__ __(Winners, Nominations list, Bookmarks, Labels, List of all nominees (for collection purposes), other activities (optional)__

_Put onto Listserve: ___Send materials to WEBMASTER for website:__ _Send results to WSRC ___Send to NovelList__

_Display board to fall conference: MAY NOT DO THIS ANYMORE (5/2014) ___Tabulate votes next spring:__

_Report at Spring Conference: done

This is a link to a pdf document maintained by CCPL staff; it lists all nominated books by author, since 1989. http://www.ccpls.org/bookawards/SEbibauthors.pdf

As committee members read books, please post your reviews/notes here, under each book heading. (Just click "Edit" to be able to add your reviews.) Be sure to add your name to your review, so we know who is writing. We can also post professional reviews here, with annotation.

//**Almost Home**// **by Bauer, Joan:** Sixth-grader Sugar and her mother lose their beloved house and experience the harsh world of homelessness, in this new work by a Newbery Honor winner ("Hope Was Here").
 * Although Sugar is young (6th grader), the issues presented will**
 * strike a chord with older students. I liked the way the plot was**
 * constructed with Sugar's first person narrative contrasted with her**
 * email postings and writing assignments. Sugar is homeless as the direct**
 * result of her father's gambling addiction. The author also pulls in**
 * foster care and the "system". I thought it was well-written and offered**
 * hope although not a happily-ever-after. Lower lexile would make this**
 * book accessible to a greater reading audience. I liked this book enough**
 * to order a copy for my classroom library. (Pam)**

//**Shadows**// **by Bick, Ilsa:** When Alex discovers that Rule is not a sanctuary, she must battle to survive against conniving adults, distrusting survivors, and the Changed, who would eat her alive.
 * 4/13)I'm working at it but can only read it during daylight hours.... (Richard)**

//**Thirteen Days to Midnight**// **by Carman, Patrick:** In this nail-biting tale of dark intrigue, powerful romance, friendship, and adventure, reluctant superhero Jacob Fielding learns that the Grim Reaper doesn't disappear. . . he catches up

//**The Selection**// **by Cass, Kiera:** Sixteen-year-old America Singer is living in the caste-divided nation of Illea, which formed after the war that destroyed the United States. America is chosen to compete in the Selection--a contest to see which girl can win the heart of Illea's prince--but all she really wants is a chance for a future with her secret love, Aspen, who is a caste below her.
 * Surprisingly fun read. Hunger Games meets Cinderella! Carried me along and made me want to read the sequels. (Jeannine)**

//**Clockwork Princess**// **by Clare, Cassandra:** Danger intensifies for the Shadowhunters as the "New York Times"-bestselling Infernal Devices trilogy comes to a close. The clock is ticking. Everyone must choose. Passion. Power. Secrets. Enchantment.
 * I am reading this one, but have not yet finished. The first book in this trilogy, //Clockwork Angel//, was a nominee in 2011-2012. This is the final installment -- so, not having read the second, there are some missing pieces. Still, most of the characters are the same, as is the plot -- the impending doom of the Shadowhunters, a group of demon-hunters who protect London from the "Infernal Devices" -- automatons who destroy and kill without pity, under the direction of the evil Mortmain. The main character in this trilogy, Tessa Gray, appears again, and holds the key that might save the Shadowhunters, if she can only believe in her power enough. Lots of action, some gory killings - though not over-the-top. Since we've already included the first book in a previous year, I can't foresee anything in the book that might preclude this one, even though I haven't finished it yet. However, since this had only two nominations and is the final installment of a trilogy, we might find better choices elsewhere on the list. - Darcy**

//**Mockingjay**// **by Collins, Suzanne:** Ended the Hunger games. A nice conclusion to the series, with no surprises.
 * I don't feel we should include titles in a series when the author has already won. Suzi**

//**Matched**// **by Condie, Ally:**
 * I don't feel we should include titles in a series when the author has**
 * already won. To clarify, this is the title that was 2nd runner up in**
 * 2013. Suzi**

//**Wither**// **by DeStefano, Lauren:**
 * I don't think a title should be on the list more than once. Suzi**

//**Battle of the Ampere**// **by Evans, Richard Paul:** To stop Hatch from using the Elgen fleet to gain world power, Michael and the rest of the Electroclan must destroy the lead ship, but divisions within the Electroclan threaten the success of their operation.
 * I don't feel we should include titles in a series when the author has already won. Suzi**

//**Royal Ranger**// **by Flanagan, John:** "Will Treaty is a shell of his former self, and his first apprentice may be the only one who can save him"--
 * Book 12. There's no way this can be construed as introducing a new author. Suzi**

//**The Fault in Our Stars**// **by Green, John:** Sixteen-year-old Hazel, a stage IV thyroid cancer patient, had accepted her terminal diagnosis until a chance meeting with a boy at cancer support group forces her to reexamine her perspective on love, loss, and life.
 * Just cry and get it done with!**
 * I'm against including this title on the list a 2nd time. Suzi**

//**Unstoppable**// **by Green, Tim:** In his most dramatic and hard-hitting story yet, former NFL defensive end Green writes about what it takes to be a winner, even when it seems like fate has dealt an impossible hand.
 * Good message of courage & survival plus lots of football. Good boy read! Lower end of grades 7-12 (Jeannine)**

//**Darkest Path**// **by Hirsch, Jeff:** Since he was captured by the Glorious Path, a militant religion based on the teachings of a former U.S. soldier, 15-year-old Cal has served the Path in its brutal war with the remains of the United States government. Cal has tried to survive and protect his younger brother, but when he kills an officer to protect a stray dog, Cal is forced to run.

//**Insignia**// **by Kincaid, S. J.:** Tom, a 14-year-old genius at virtual reality games, is recruited by the United States military to begin training at the Pentagon Spire as a Combatant in World War III, controlling the mechanized drones that do the actual fighting off-planet. Insignia is a great read for boys, gamers, and fans of fantasy. It is written at a good reading level for 7-12. Story is interesting with some involved parts, family interaction, and strong friendships. (Jeannine)

//**Dark Souls**// **by Morris, Paula:** Miranda Tennant arrives in York--the most haunted city in the world--with a terrible, tragic secret. Eager to lose herself amid the quaint cobblestones, she meets Nick, an intense, dark-eyed boy who knows all of York's hidden places and histories. But soon, Miranda realizes that something dangerous--and deadly--is being planned.
 * Interesting story - ghosts, a mystery to solve, minimal romance. Kids would enjoy reading this book. (Jeannine)**

//**Forgotten**// **by Patrick, Cat:** Sixteen-year-old London Lane forgets everything each night and must use notes to struggle through the day--even to recall her wonderful boyfriend. She "remembers" future events and, as her "flashforwards" become more disturbing, realizes she must learn more about the past before it destroys her future. Review Quotes: "With a bit of fantasy and lots of intrigue, Cat Patrick manages to capture her audience right from the start.... She has a nice, clear style of writing that will easily appeal to the young teenage group."--PW ""Forgotten"is a thought-provoking debut novel and a glimpse at the mysteries of the brain. Experiencing London's dilemmas, readers can't help but ponder the importance of their own memories." -- "BookPage
 * This book has an interesting premise (see description) and is**
 * equal parts suspense, romance and special powers. As you might image,**
 * forgetting everything each day, but being able to "remember" the future**
 * has its advantages and disadvantages. It makes for an interesting,**
 * sometimes humorous, sometimes disastrous problem for London. The plot**
 * unfolds in increments and while not tidily wrapped up at the end, gives**
 * us enough of a glimpse of London's future to believe it's going to work**
 * out ok. This was a quick, enjoyable read. Forgotten is her debut novel.**
 * Suzi**

//**Originals**// **by Patrick, Cat:** Seventeen-year-olds Lizzie, Ella, and Betsy Best are clones, raised as identical triplets by their surrogate mother but living as her one daughter, Elizabeth, until their separate abilities and a romantic relationship force a change.
 * Disjointed, undeveloped plot. The "love interest" is not plausible.**
 * Characters are not developed. Relies on cliche and stereotypes. Reads**
 * like a 6th grade vision of high school. (Pam)**


 * //I Funny// by Patterson, James:**
 * When I purchased this book for our library I had a hard time deciding whether to place it in Juvenile or YA. After reading it, I'm still puzzled. If it's age appropriate, I would say barely. Pretty much on the level of Whimpy Kid. It does have several positive themes and I could probably keep a straight face offering it as "the best, not mediocre" Suzi**
 * I agree with all of this. This could work for 7th, maybe 8th, but would be better on Indian Paintbrush list. (Jeannine)**

//**House of Hades**// **by Riordan, Rick:** In this fourth installment of the bestselling series, the Greek and Roman demigods from the Prophesy of Seven must work together to seal the Doors of Death and help Percy and Annabeth escape the Underworld in the process.
 * I don't feel we should include titles in a series when the author has already won. Suzi**
 * Just finished reading this book... action from start to finish... just like #3 was.** Richard


 * // Mark of Athena // by Riordan, Rick: **
 * If we decide to include a Rick Riordan book it should be the one with most nominations- //House of Hades. Suzi//**
 * //Well, just like the first 3 it is a fun story with many twists and turns. At this point they are blending for me... (Richard)//**

//** Son of Neptune **//** by Riordan, Rick: **
 * I don't feel we should include titles in a series when the author has**
 * already won. If we include a Riordan book it should be one with most**
 * nominations, House of Hades. Suzi**


 * I read this and enjoyed it! It is easy to see why it was nominated**
 * because the action starts with the first sentence and carries the reader**
 * along. Additionally there is humor and friendship. Popular, high**
 * interest, and grade appropriate. (Jeannine)**

A group of divergent travel outside the city and find they are being manipulated by people on the outside. Suspenseful conclusion to the series when you kill off the main character.
 * // Allegiant // by Roth, Veronica: **
 * 3rd in the series...**
 * I don't feel we should include titles in a series when the author has already won. Suzi**

Tris and Four are captured, given truth serum during the trial and confess. Yes, confess to killing Will and disliking father because of the beatings. They later escape. We meet Four's mother, setting her up to be the leader of the the factionless. We also find Tris becoming increasingly independent and selfless; turning herself in to Jeanine in order to save her friends from walking off talk buildings (no nets). 2nd in the series...
 * //Insurgent// by Roth, Veronica: **
 * I don't feel we should include titles in a series when the author has already won. Suzi**

//**Dork Diaries**// **by Russel, Renee:** Nikki Maxwell authors an advice column for the school newspaper in this fifth book of the "New York Times"-bestselling Dork Diaries series. When Miss Know-It-All's inbox is overflowing with pleas for guidance, she feels in need of some help herself.
 * Dork Diaries are the girl version of Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Cute, fast**
 * read, good friendships, some problem solving, realistic family**
 * relationships. Kids are sure to enjoy this but I don't think it belongs**
 * on a 7-12 nomination list. I don't have any at my 6-9 school and they**
 * haven't been asked for. (Jeannine)**

In 1941, fifteen-year-old Lina, her mother, and brother are pulled from their Lithuanian home by Soviet guards and sent to Siberia, where her father is sentenced to death in a prison camp while she fights for her life, vowing to honor her family and the thousands like hers by burying her story in a jar on Lithuanian soil. Based on the author's family, includes a historical note.
 * //Between Shades of Gray// by Sepetys, Ruta:**
 * Wow-such a powerful book! Gritty and disturbing only because it happened.Well written and grade appropriate (Jeannine)**
 * I agree with Jeannine! Very well researched and written, compelling story . . . plus a chapter of history that has not received much attention in YA literature: the Siberian exile of millions of residents of the Baltic region when the Soviet Union occupied these countries during WWII. So much of YA literature of that time period centers, understandingly, on the Nazi regime and the Holocaust. It will be educational for teens to realize there was another genocide happening during this time. . . .and I think the story is well-written enough, told from Lina's voice, that readers will be interested. If I'm not mistaken, this was nominated for an ALA award as well. (Darcy)**

When news reports start appearing of a zombie outbreak in Ireland, B's racist father thinks it's a joke. But when zombies attack his high school, B is forced on a mad dash through the serpentine corridors, making allegiances with anyone with enough gall to fight off their pursuers.
 * //Zom-B// by Shan, Darren:**
 * Not as graphic as Shadows, but enough that will keep you going**
 * if you are zombie fan. Ending is a surprise as you find out that B is... (richard)**

The long-awaited sequel to "Unwind." Thanks to Connor, Lev, and Risa, and their high-profile revolt at Happy Jack Harvest Camp, people can no longer turn a blind eye to unwinding. However, unwinding has become big business, and there are powerful political and corporate interests that want to see it not only continue, but expand, allowing the unwinding of prisoners and the impoverished.
 * //Unwholly// by Shusterman, Neal:**

Twelve-year-old genius and outsider Willow Chance must figure out how to connect with other people and find a surrogate family for herself after her parents are killed in a car accident**.**
 * //Counting by 7's// by Sloan, Holly Goldberg:**
 * Wonderful heartfelt book, age appropriate, well written (Jeannine)**

//**This is What Happy Looks Like**// **by Smith, J. E.:** A misdirected e-mail sparks an unlikely and irresistible romance between a small-town girl and a teenage movie star in this new novel from the author of "The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight."

The five dragonets of the prophecy are hoping to hide in safety in the RainWing kingdom, and Glory is hoping to learn more about her own identity. But when tribe members start disappearing and the old queen does nothing, it is up to Glory and her friends to uncover the lurking evil.
 * //Hidden Kingdom// by Sutherland, Tui:**
 * This is the third in a series so it was difficult getting into the story**
 * but it was a good story if you like dragons. The dragons work together**
 * well and solve a mystery. Seems young for the 7-12 category**


 * //Lost Heir// by Sutherland, Tui:**

//**Smile**// **by Telgemeier, Raina:** Raina just wants to be a normal sixth grader. But one night after Girl Scouts she trips and falls, severely injuring her two front teeth, and what follows is a long and frustrating journey with on-again, off-again braces, surgery, embarrassing headgear, and even a retainer with fake teeth attached.


 * //The Running Dream//** **by Van Draanen, Wendelin**:
 * Annotation:** Jessica thinks her life is over when she loses a leg in a car accident. She's not comforted by the news that she'll be able to walk with the help of a prosthetic leg. As she struggles to cope with crutches and a first cyborg-like prosthetic, Jessica feels oddly both in the spotlight and invisible. This was a well written teenage girl "problem" novel. The strength comes from a step-by-step look at Jessica's journey from victim to advocate for special needs awareness. We find out the process for getting a prosthetic leg, learning to hop and scoot without a leg, and dealing with social reactions from others to her sudden change in ability. Parents, teachers, coach (the accident happens on the bus at track meet), doctors and local media are all present and helpful in her recovery. Things wrap up on an upbeat note with Jessica gaining a new CP wheelchair friend, getting the cute guy and running again on her super leg prosthetic (brief mention of Oscar Pistorius) All systems go for including this title on the list. **SUZI**

//**I Am Malala**// **by Yousafzai, Malala:** When the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley in Pakistan, one girl spoke out. Malala Yousafzai refused to be silenced and fought for her right to an education. This is an upper level book but it is a story that needs to be heard and is especially poignant from such a young voice. It is a good history lesson, interesting insight into the Taliban, and reminds us how important education is and everything else we take for granted.(Jeannine)