Fantasy/Sci Fi

Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman. Recommended for ages 13 and up. The story of Fat Charlie, who loses the father he was never very close to. Fat Charlie's dad always seemed to have a way of making things work out, something Charlie never inherited. However, when Charlie meets his long lost brother and discovers that their father was the trickster God Anansi, he learns what exactly he is able to do. The writing style is great for this story and I would recommend it for most teenage boys.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. A beautifully done story recommended for ages 12 and up, this writer found many old and mysterious photographs and interwove them in a story about an orphanages that calls to children with peculiar talents. Jacob discovers this home after his father passes away and he attempts to track down the orphanage that housed him after the war, to figure out the story behind the mysterious letters his grandfather kept hidden. This book will keep the reader guessing about the monsters and the truth behind the fiction that Jacob experiences. A great story for both boys and girls 12 and up. 

Gossamer by Lois Lowry. Recommended for ages 9 and up. Late at night dream givers sneak in and give us good dreams after collecting memories. Littlest One is learning the art of "bestowing" and is practicing her skills on an elderly woman and her foster son John who has been rescued from an abusive family. A sweet and touching story that will help children expand the way they view the world around them. 

Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs. Recommended for ages 13 and up. The story of Lily, who though she is half mermaid princess, has chosen to live on land with her aunt Rachel. She encounters life as a normal teenage girl-except for her frequent need for saltwater baths. She must deal with school, love, and friends while pretending that she doesn't have a father waiting for her to return home-under the sea. I would recommend this book for younger female readers, because it is a series and may help them to become more interested in the fantasy genre. 

Ultraviolet by R.J. Anderson. Recommended for ages 14 and up. 16 year old Alison has done the unforgivable. She murdered her near-perfect classmate Tori after an argument in detention. However, Alison's memory seems a bit hazy-she swears Tori disintegrated. Alison winds up in a mental hospital to treat her violent outbursts and she discovers something amazing about herself and the colors she can both hear-and taste. An amazing read for anyone, with a great twist that will keep any reader guessing. 

Scumble by Ingrid Law. Recommended for ages 9 and up. The story of Ledger Kale, who is experiencing similar issues as his cousin Mibs in the previous tale Savvy. Ledger has just had his 13th birthday and been given a gift he must learn to control while spending the summer camping on his uncle's farm. With the help of his cousin Rocket-who can control electricity-and a young girl named Sarah Jane who is intent on discovering what it is about Ledger that is so special, Ledge learns that he is in control of his own destiny, and no one can take that away from him. I would recommend this book to young boys who may be able to identify with some of what Ledger is going through. 

The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer. Recommended for ages 14 and up. Matteo, aka Matt, was not born a human boy. He was cloned from one of the most powerful drug lords the world has ever seen. El Patron chooses to keep him well educated and happy, despite the fact that the rest of the family view him as something less than human and treat him as such. Matt encounters many difficulties based on his clone status, and begins to learn his true purpose in this world. An amazing story that readers will fly through, simply to discover what will happen to Matt at the end. 

Siren's Storm by Lisa Papademetriou. Recommended for ages 13 and up. A somewhat confusing story that attempts to teach readers about the mythical Siren, and how they have affected Will and Gretchen. Best friends since they were children, Will and Gretchen are now facing challenges based around the mysterious disappearance of Will's older brother and the presence of a strange girl named Asia. This was not one of the better fantasy novels I have read, and I would hesitate before recommending it to any teen. 

Romance/Chick Lit/Gay and Lesbian novels

Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan. Recommended for ages 12 and up. The story of Paul, who goes to a high school where being yourself is accepted, and bullying is abhorred. The cheerleaders all ride motorcycles, the homecoming queen must decide whether to ride the homecoming float as queen or star quarterback (for she is both) and Paul has fallen in love for the first time with Noah. An excellent story for teens about being open and honest with yourself, and what a confusing and amazing time your teenage years are. This novel is simple and moving, and a great read for anyone who is experiencing high school or their first love. 

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. Recommended for ages 13 and up. This heart wrenching and honest novel tells the story of Hazel, who is almost 16 and is dealing with cancer. She meets and falls in love with Augustus, and together they learn about themselves and what it is really like to love someone who is dying. This novel has some mature content, and deals with very difficult themes. The writing can be a bit complex at times, and the ideas that are presented require a bit of thought. Teens should be prepared to read this book, and parents should be prepared for questions that may come with it. 

The Breakup Bible by Melissa Kantor. Recommended for grades 10 and up. The story of Jennifer Lewis, who is told by her boyfriend of five months that they should "just be friends". A familiar tale to many young girls, this simply written novel delves deeper than I expected it to. In the end Jen learns an important message about being herself, and the fact that not everyone is as they seem. 

Shine by Lauren Myracle. Recommended for ages 14 and up. The story of Cat, whose best friend Patrick is found tied up with a gas nozzle shoved down his throat, a victim of a hate crime because he is one of the only openly gay members of his community. Cat is told to leave the situation alone by the local law enforcement, but is insistent enough that she must do some of her own digging. This story is deeply moving, and will keep the reader guessing. It can be somewhat disturbing for teens, but overall is a rich and powerful story for readers with the right temperament to handle the issues that are faced. 

The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart. Recommended for grades 7 and up.  Frankie is tired of being a girl in an "Old Boys" prep school. Though she has caught the attention of handsome senior Matthew, she learns quickly that she is expected to be a certain type of girl. When she disrupts the social order by infiltrating the Basset Hounds, Matthew's elite all-male club, she must decide for herself whether it is worth it to be liked and accepted while being quiet and well-meaning, or to become infamous for being herself. An excellent story, if a bit hard to follow based on Frankie's insistence on using words that she makes up on her own. 

The Dork Diaries by Rachel Renee Russell. Recommended for ages 9 and up. This novel-done in the style of the "Wimpy Kid" series, seems to be appealing to girls who are entering high school or who have dealt with the popular crowd at their school. However, this novel seems to give girls the idea that it is acceptable to 

The Straight Road to Kylie by Nico Medina. Recommended for ages 15 and up. The story of Jonathan, who has known he is gay for years. His family and his friends all love and accept him for who he is-until the day that he makes a very serious mistake. After sleeping with a female friend, his life becomes a tangled mess while he tries to re-discover who he is and what he is willing to put on the line. For a concert in Europe he must pretend to be the straight boyfriend of the richest girl in his school, much to the dismay of his friends. The story is funny and serious, with a voice told much like any teenager going through his high school years. A great recommendation for teens. 

I Am J by Cris Beam. Recommended for ages 14 and up. The story of J-born Jenni-a transgender youth dealing with the understanding of who he is. As J leads us through the life of a trans youth with parents and friends that do not understand we learn about the challenges that transgender youths can face today. As J learns about testosterone and the changes that it will cause for him, readers discover what it means to feel uncomfortable in your own body and to hate the way you were born. This story is an excellent read that promotes tolerance and understanding towards a group that many teens do not identify with and have not been written about in great detail. 

She Loves You, She Loves You Not by Julie Anne Peters. Recommended for ages 15 and up. Alyssa is 17 years old and has known she is a lesbian since she was thirteen. She lives with her father, a homophobic lawyer who disowns her when he discovers her and her girlfriend. When Alyssa is forced to move in with her absentee mother, she begins to discover the true meaning of judgement, love, and family. I would recommend this book for most teen girls, as it teaches about discrimination and determination to be yourself and to overcome the hardest things in your life. 

Graphic Novels

Smile by Raina Telgemeier. Recommended for ages 9 and up. The true story of Raina, who knocks her two front teeth out one night after a girl scout meeting and spends the next four and a half years dealing with braces, headgear and embarrassment. Through the story Raina learns the hard way about what a true friendship is, and what it can mean to be yourself. I would recommend this to older readers, such as those entering the sixth grade, who would more likely comprehend and learn from Raina's story and understand her message. 

The Life of the Great Escape Artist Houdini by Agnieszka Biskup. The biographical tale of Harry Houdini, who amazed crowds all over the worlds with his stunts and feats of escapism. This book is recommended for ages 8 and up, but I would find it suitable for younger children than that, and may be a great tool for children to learn about biographies in graphic novel format. These types of stories tend to be dry, and children may not be as interested in them, but the illustrations and simple wording make the life of a famous person-especially a magician-much easier and more enjoyable for young readers. 

The Popularity Papers by Amy Ignatow. Recommended for ages 9 and up. A story told by Lydia and Julie, two best friends who are striving to be popular throughout their middle school years. An excellent read for girls in the sixth grade, our heroines learn that it is often more important to be true to yourself and your friends than to strive to be popular-and that you never know what you might really like until you try it. A relatively quick story with a great lesson, this book is much more suited to girls than it may be to boys of the same age. 

The Elves and the Shoemaker by Martin Powell. Recommended for ages 8 and up. The graphic novel re-telling of the classic Grimm fairy tale is easily suited for younger children, and could even be used as a picture book of sorts. There are not too many words, and the story itself is easy to follow. The tale is simple and has a good message, and the pictures are stunning and fun. 

Outlaw: The Legend of Robin Hood by Tony Lee. The graphic novel re-telling of the famous tale of Robin Hood is an excellent story for boys ages 10 and up. Though the story can be difficult to follow at times, and the characters may get a bit confusing, it is overall an enticing read. It keeps readers enthralled as they follow the exploits of Robin Hood and his army as they rob from the rich and give to the poor and attempt to outwit the evil Sheriff and his men. 

Babymouse: Puppy Love by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm. Recommended for ages 7 and up. This graphic novel series is definitely geared towards young girls, the stories of Babymouse and all of her pets is a quick read that will keep readers entertained. The pictures are done entirely in black, white and pink, which can sometimes be a bit boring but overall the drawings themselves are well done. The story feels a bit rushed at times, but will be perfect for children who are not accustomed to reading full-length novels yet. 

The Baby-Sitters Club: Claudia and Mean Janine by Ann M. Martin, adapted to graphic novel format by Raina Telgemeier. Recomended for ages 9 and up. Another excellent graphic novel for girls, this is the adapted story of the Baby-Sitters Club, a series of novels by Ann M. Martin. Focusing on Claudia the artistic member of the group and her troubles with her intellectual sister Janine, girls will learn that their issues with their family members are not the most important thing, and learn to put aside their differences in important times of need. Though beautifully illustrated, this novel could have done with a bit of color-the black and white can be a bit boring at times. 

The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. Adapted to graphic novel format by Michael Cavallaro. Recommended for ages 8 and up. This story seems like it would be a lot for an 8 year old to read. The story of the Wizard of Oz retold, with a slightly modern twist. Though there are many pictures it would take a long time for an 8 year old to read through this novel, though it is not to say that their interest would not be captivated. From blue-haired Dorothy to a much more selfless Cowardly Lion, these classic characters are given a tune-up from the story that we all know and love. 

The Odyssey by Homer. Adapted to graphic novel by Tim Mucci, recommended for ages 10 and up. And excellent way to introduce children to the classic novel by Homer, this graphic novel re-telling is brightly illustrated and very simple to follow. I would recommend this for grades 6 and up, and perhaps boys more than girls based on the story line. However, any child interested in action and adventure would enjoy this story and the way in which it is told.

Historical Fiction

The Butterfly by Patricia Polacco. Recommended for ages 6 and up. An excellent story for children learning about the Nazi occupation in France and WWII, Patricia Polacco beautifully illustrates a story about empathy and kindness. Monique deals with the cruelty and harsh treatment of Jews in her small French town by evil Nazis. The symbol of the butterfly comes up throughout the novel, and is an excellent way to open a discussion on symbolism. 

What I Saw and How I Lied by Judy Blundell. Recommended for grades 9 and up. The story of 15 year old Evie who is learning about the trials of growing up while dealing with the aftermath of World War II. When her stepfather returns from war he returns a changed man, and Evie must deal with the trials of navigating her first love-a man named Joe who has a mysterious secret about her stepfather, and the lies begin to slowly tear her family apart. A fantastic historical fiction novel that will teach children about life in America after the war while keeping them intrigued about the twists and turns of growing up. 

Ballet for Martha: Making Appalachian Spring by Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan. Recommended for ages 6 and up, this picture book children about the making of one of the first ballets, called Appalachian Spring, and the woman who pioneered it. Set in the 1930's, we learn about the hard work and determination that went into the making of the scene, music and movement as well as the debut in 1944. An excellent story for children who are taking dance classes, it may also help to learn about the story that a dance can tell. This would be an excellent book for a project in a public library about making up a dance to tell a story. 

The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg by Rodman Philbrick. Recommended for grades 4 and up. The amazing adventure of Homer Figg, who journeys through the Civil war to bring his brother-illegally sold into the army-home safely. Homer encounters traitors and spies, thieves and evil men, but never gives up on his journey no matter how perilous. An excellent piece of historical fiction for students who are learning about the Civil war, I would recommend it to children in the 4th grade and up. 

John Muir America's First Environmentalist by Kathryn Lasky. Recommended for ages 6 and up. A great choice for a class learning about history as well as anything having to do with land conservation, this picture book teaches children about the life and history of John Muir, who created the Sierra Club. Though slightly too long to keep the attention of 6 year olds, this novel would be good for anyone 8 and above, and would be an excellent aid in a public or school library. 

A Journey to the New World: The Diary of Remember Patience Whipple by Katheryn Lasky. A novel written in diary form that makes it a relatively quick read for children ages 8 and up, this is the story of the pilgrims who immigrated to the new world to escape the reign of the king and the hardships they faced. The tone of 12 year old "Mem" makes the story intriguing and heartfelt while still being full of facts about the time in which she lived. This would be an excellent choice for children who are learning about the Mayflower and the Pilgrims, as well as the first encounters with Native Americans. 

Pioneer Church by Carolyn Otto. Recommended for grades 3-6. When a small wooden church was built in an English colony, no one assumed that it would one day become a historic landmark. This book tells the story of how that happened. Walking children through the major developments-from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to World War II-this is a great story about how times change and how our country was built. I would recommend it for younger children, grades 1-2. 

Sam the Minuteman by Nathaniel Benchley. Recommended for ages 4 and up. The story of Sam, who fought with his father for the Revolution against the English. The first day of battle against the Redcoats, Sam is terrified but continues to fight for the cause even after his friend John is injured. Sam follows in the footsteps of his father, another Minuteman fighting for independence from British rule. A good easy reader, though children may be somewhat disturbed by the content of the book. 

When Will This Cruel War Be Over by Barry Denenberg. Recommended for ages 9 and up. Written in diary form, this story is told by Emma, a young woman whose father is off fighting for the south in the Civil war. Interestingly enough, this book gives children another look at the war, and shows them how often the war was just as bad for those on the other side. Starvation and death happen often, and it is a heart wrenching tale. A very good story that teaches children facts and history as well as learning to look beyond what they think they know about war. 

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly. Recommended for ages 9 and up. This beautiful novel tells the story of Callie Vee, who is living in Texas in the year 1899. Callie is learning to love science and the world around her in a time when she is only expected to be a housewife-or teacher, if she doesn't want a family-in the midst of her 6 brothers. Her grandfather is a naturalist who once corresponded with Charles Darwin, and he is quickly becoming her mentor. Excellent for young girls who will be amazed to discover how many things they take for granted today, this story will delight and amuse any who read it. 

Multicultural Stories

Duke Ellington by Adrea Davis Pinkney. Recommended for grades 3 and up. This Caldecott winner tells the story of Duke Ellington, the man who made jazz music famous. Beautiful illustrations and the whimsical wording make this story a great read for children of all ages. It also helps to introduce the instruments and inspire children to learn to play music, as well as what the music can inspire in people. 

Samuel's Choice by Richard Berleth. Recommended for grades 3 and up. The story of a young slave named Samuel who was instrumental in the fight for freedom on Long Island during the American Revolution. A great read for children who are learning about the Declaration of Independence and the founding of our country, as well as a lesson about how anyone can make the choice to do what is right, even in the face of adversity. 

More Than Anything Else by Marie Bradby. Recommended for ages K-12. A young African-American boy wishes more than anything to be able to read. As he works all day shoveling salt with his father and brother, he does not mention the fact that he is starving or the meals he has missed. Instead he chooses to get through the day imagining what it would be like to read. Showing children what they have now as opposed to what was given to children many years ago may help them build and appreciation for reading, and the freedom it allows them. 

Smokey Night by Eve Bunting. This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a family in turmoil as the streets below them are filled with rioters and broken glass. When their apartment is set on fire, they must leave everything behind-including Daniel's cat, Jasmine. When Jasmine is found with a previous enemy (the cat that belongs to Mrs. Kim, a woman that Daniel's mother didn't want to associate with) everyone learns a valuable lesson about trust, and learning to look beyond what you think you see. Recommended for ages 5 and up. 

Harvesting Hope by Kathleen Krull. Recommended for grades 1 and up. This picture book for older readers tells the story of Cesar Chavez, the man who led the first peaceful revolt for farm workers in America. He organized a march that brought attention to the low wages and despicable conditions that many Spanish speaking farm hands were subjected to. This book is easy to read and understand and teaches young children a great lesson about tolerance, understanding and hope. 

Almost to Freedom by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson. Recommended for ages 6-10. Told entirely from the point-of-view of a rag doll that belongs to a slave child during the civil war, this picture book recreates what life was like on cotton farms and while running away through the underground railroad. It is easy for children to understand what is happening without being overly simplistic. A great read for children who are learning about this time in American history. 

Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan. Recommended for ages 11 and up. The story of a wealthy family that loses everything on the verge of the young daughters 13th birthday. Mother and daughter must immigrate to the United States with nothing in order to avoid being separated. An excellent story for children grades 6 and up that teaches about what is truly important and how to rise above what  you are used to in order to become a better person. 

Pink and Say by Patricia Polacco. The story of two young soldiers who find each other during the Civil War, and a friendship blossoms. Told from generation to generation by Polacco's family, she wrote and illustrated this book to honor the memory of an African American boy named Pinkus Aylee who saved her great-great grandfather's life. Recommended for ages 6 and up, this novel is an honest and touching tale that would also work for children in slightly older grades to help learn about tolerance, acceptance, and what it means to do the right thing even when you are afraid. 

Li'l Dan the Drummer Boy by Romare Bearden. This colorfully illustrated picture book tells the story of Li'l Dan, a slave who is freed by the North and becomes the mascot of Company E, whom he follows after receiving word that he no longer "belongs" to anyone. He saves their lives using imagination and his drum, and grows up to become a member of the army himself. Recommended for grades 1-4, I would choose to read this to younger children such as grades 1-2. The story is simple and the colors and pictures are beautiful but simple. 

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia. Recommended for ages 9 and up, Delphine tells the story of her summer with her sisters in Oakland, California in the midst of Black Panther uprisings. Stuck with a mother who abandoned them and most days refuses to acknowledge their presence, the girls learn firsthand what is happening with the revolution. I enjoyed this book, because it teaches children history with a twist, and is humorous enough to make you truly appreciate what the girls must endure at the hands of Celia, their mother. 

Newberry Winners

The Wanderer by Sharon Creech. Recommended for ages 9 and up. The story of Sophie, a young girl who crosses the ocean with her uncles and two cousins to visit her grandfather-or "Bompie". The family bonds, and many secrets are uncovered. This tale would be great for young girls, because the novel is narrated mainly by a female and is told in a simple but elegant style that will keep the reader engrossed and guessing until the very end. 

A Long Way from Chicago by Richard Peck. Recommended for ages 8 and up. This Newberry Honor winner tells the story of Joey and Mary Alice, two children from Chicago in the height of the depression. This book tells the stories of what happens on their annual pilgrimages to their Grandmother's house in Illinois. Their Grandmother is a larger-than-life woman, and the stories that are told will amuse readers of any age. This book was heartwarming, and I would recommend it to anyone fourth grade and up. 

A Year Down Yonder by Richard Peck. Recommended for ages 10 and up. The sequel to "A Long Way from Chicago", this novel continues the exploits of Joey and Mary Alice's infamous grandmother.  The annual trips continue, though now Mary Alice is facing Illinois alone, as Joey has enlisted in the army for WWII. The bonding between grandmother and granddaughter may make this novel more suited to girls than its predecessor, thought the stories are just as amusing. These novels give children an insight into what life was like during the depression, and how different life was. 

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead. Recommended for ages 9 and up. This novel was fascinating-it was fantasy and a coming of age story all in one. Miranda is growing up in New York City in the 1970's, and is at the age where she must learn a lot of new lessons about herself, her friends and her family. On top of everything she is starting to discover, she is receiving mysterious notes from someone who seems to know the future. As Miranda matures and accepts the inevitable facts of life-her best friend won't always be her best friend, and her enemy may not always be her enemy-she also discovers that everything is not as it seems, for better or worse. 

Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater. Recommended for ages 3 and up. The tale of a man who longs to be able to voyage and discover new places who is granted a gift in the form of 12 intelligent and well-trained penguins. Written in 1938 when most people were not aware of what a penguin even was, this story will delight children of all ages with its simplicity. It teaches children to follow their dreams, for you never know what a new day may bring you if you do. Mr. Popper and his wife are a prime example that generosity and kindness for all creatures will get you far. 

Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos. Recommended for ages 10 and up. The 2012 Newberry award winner is a funny and slightly twisted story about a young man growing up in a quiet town in 1962 where everything seems idyllic. Grounded for the summer by his parents for disobedience, Jackie gets loaned out to an elderly neighbor to write obituaries for the men and women who founded his town. Along the way he discovers murder and mystery, and learns about respecting the past and the importance of history.  I was reluctant about this book at first because the summary didn't seem very interesting, but once I got into the story the novel was impossible to put down. An excellent summer read for children of the right age. 

Savvy by Ingrid Law, recommended for ages 8 and up. While this book is a fantastic read-funny and heartfelt, I would definitely recommend it for children who are a bit older. 8 year olds may not be mature enough to comprehend and empathize with most of what Mibs Beaumont, the main character and narrator, is going through. Mibs has just had her 13th birthday and gotten her "savvy" a unique and life-changing power that runs in her DNA when her father is hospitalized after a bad car accident. Mibs and her siblings find a way to their father's bedside along with the son and daughter of their local preacher, but not without learning a lesson or two about what it means to be you, and the fact that being special doesn't need to run in your DNA. 

Crispin: The Cross of Lead by Avi. Recommended for grades 5 and up. This story is an excellent blend of history and fiction. Crispin teaches children about the rebellions of the 1300's while taking them on a journey with a young man who has no idea who he is or who his parents were. This book was a very quick read, and was just gruesomely detailed enough to keep most boys interested. This novel teaches young readers about friendship, loyalty and family as well as providing an insight into what life in the feudal system was like. 

Breaing Stalin's Nose by Eugene Velchin. Recommended for ages 9 and up. The story of young Sasha Zaichik who is growing up in the USSR under Stalin's rule. He is raised to be a good communist-to look out for any spies in his country and to believe that capitalism is the worst system in the world. However, one day things begin to unravel for him as his father (who was once given a medal by Stalin himself) is arrested for treason and taken to jail. Sasha begins to realize that not everything he believed is the truth, and that it is important to make up your own mind, and not to blindly follow a leader.  

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin. Recommended for ages 8 and up. A folk tale with Chinese origins, this tale tells the story of Manli who journeys to meet the Old Man of the Moon to ask how her family can change their fortune. Interwoven with ancient stories that help enhance the tale, this is an excellent fantasy story for children 8 and up. The language is easy to understand and it will keep kids fascinated and imagining from beginning to end.