MARVELOUS DARETOPIAN NOVEL OF THE MONTH ARCHIVE
March/April 2018: The Girl With All the Gifts by M.R. Carey, c2015
The Girl With All the Gifts
something’s-gone-wrong world
she’s a special child with bite
unclear loyalties
high-voltage survival trek
suspenseful & surprising
MM
February 2018: Truthers (YA) by Geoffrey Girard, c2017
Truthers (YA)
by Geoffrey Girard
c2017
dad’s unraveling
forces her to verify
muddied, muddled facts
thought-provoking mystery
takes nothing at face value
MM
January 2018: The Silent Corner by Dean Koontz, c2017
The Silent Corner
by Dean Koontz
c2017
staying off the grid
she’s kickass rogue FBI
rooting out evil
compelling, realistic
nanotech terror unleashed
MM
March/April 2017: Jackaby (YA) by William Ritter, c2014
Jackaby
1892
Holmes-style, oddball detective
killer on the loose
paranormal mystery
sure to please the finicky
MM
February 2017: The Charmed Children of Rookskill Castle (JF) by Janet Fox, c2016
The Charmed Children of Rookskill Castle
old castle-turned-school
their classmates are vanishing
ancient evil lives
ghostly, fast-paced adventure
jeweled with creepy nuance
MM
January 2017: Brightwood (JuvFic) by Tania Unsworth, c2016
Brightwood
secluded mansion
she’s all alone to face a
sinister stranger
middle-grade read with intrigue
& a good dose of scary
MM
December 2016: The Last One by Alexandra Oliva, c2016
The Last One
television show
pushed to the limit, alone
a contest gone wrong
gripping survival story
in a blurred reality
MM
October/November 2016: Don’t You Cry by Mary Kubica, c2016
Don’t You Cry
a missing best friend
linked by their digging for clues
obsessions collide
psychological thriller
keeps you guessing ’til the end
MM
September 2016: And the Trees Crept In (YA) by Dawn Kurtagich, c2016
And the Trees Crept In
cursed, decayed manor
hiding from the Creeper Man
spiral to madness
a modern gothic horror
terrifyingly eerie
MM
August 2016: The Hatching by Ezekiel Boone, c2016
The Hatching
modern day world-wide
plague of man-eating spiders
multiplied outlooks
fun scariness in need of
a sequel. Could not put down!
MM
July 2016: Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder, c2005
Poison Study
kingdom divided
choose: quick death or slow poison
Rebels, spies, intrique
richly detailed fantasy
of daring & dirty deeds
MM
June 2016: Abarat (YA) by Clive Barker, c2002
Abarat
epic adventures
archipelago of time
where dark forces stir
splendidly strange fantasy
an all-time marve favorite
MM
May 2016: Watchers by Dean Koontz, c1987
Watchers
genetic research
hybrid dog and vicious beasts
true, pure redemption
thrilling chase that does not stop
edge-of-your-seat powerful
MM
April 2016: Variant (YA) by Robison Wells, c2011
Variant
school with no adults
his future hopes turn into
a fight for his life
quickly paced sci-fi thriller
topped with a crazy-good twist
MM
March 2016: If I Run by Terri Blackstock, c2016
If I Run
bad cops & good cops
she must prove her innocence
against corruption
many mysteries in one
heart-racing, cliff-hanging end
MM
February 2016: The Word Exchange by Alena Graedon, c2014
The Word Exchange
when logophiles wane
gadget dependence ascends
unseaming language
brainy dystopia with
secret clubs & deadly tech
MM
January 2016: Vengeance Road (YA) by Erin Bowman, c2015
Vengeance Road
endless dust and heat
her father murdered for clues
in madness of gold
Spaghetti Western in print
captures the Wild West spirit
MM
December 2015: NEED (YA) by Joelle Charbonneau, c2015
NEED
one small town high school
social media gone bad
no one can stop it
young adult take on Stephen
King's Needful Things. Creepy good!
MM
November 2015: Nightfall (YA) by Jake Halpern & Peter Kujawinski, c2015
Nightfall
distant day island
turns dark . . . three teens left behind
to escape the Night
eerie survival story
with terrifying creatures
MM
October 2015: The Haunting of Gabriel Ashe (YA) by Dan Poblocki, c2013
The Haunting of Gabriel Ashe
dark fantasy game
mutated humanoid beast
evil in the woods
horror story with a shock
set in creepy atmosphere
MM
September 2015: The Night Gardener (JF) by Jonathan Auxier, c2014
The Night Gardener
creepy manor house
two Irish orphans entrapped
evil enchantments
good old-fashioned spooky tale
best read under the covers!
MM
August 2015: The Martian by Andy Weir, c2014
The Martian
left behind on Mars
clever humor, brilliant mind
must fend for himself
expertly read audio-
book not to be missed. Awesome!
MM
July 2015: Uglies (YA) by Scott Westerfeld, c2005
Uglies
extreme surgery:
to conform or to challenge
one's identity
perfect beauty, betrayal,
action, hoverboards, & more!
MM
June 2015: Fallout (YA) by Todd Strasser, c2013
Fallout
alternate 'sixties
too many people in one
crowded bomb shelter
realistic, disturbing
excellent use of flashbacks
MM
May 2015: Bird Box (YA) by Josh Malerman, c2014
Bird Box
eyes must be closed tight
seeing brings insanity
survival horror
brilliantly creepy, taut with
tension, expertly crafted
MM
April 2015: Goodhouse by Peyton Marshall, c2014
Goodhouse
startling, grim future
set of genetic markers
eugenic control
dystopia for adults
based partly on true events
MM
March 2015: The Testing (YA) by Joelle Charbonneau, c2013
The Testing
rising body count
teens pushed to the breaking point
trust no one to pass
harsh, intense exams become
gruesome as threats mount. Gripping.
MM
February 2015: The Paladin Prophecy (YA) by Mark Frost, c2012
The Paladin Prophecy
exclusive prep school
finds superhuman talents
an ancient struggle
fun, intense non-stop action
battling Never-Was monsters
MM
January 2015: This Dark Endeavor (YA) by Kenneth Oppel, c2011
This Dark Endeavor
gothic Swiss chateau
mad genius in the making
pushing boundaries
forbidden, dangerous quest
marvelously intense take
MM
December 2014: In the After (YA) by Demitria Lunetta, c2013
In the After
life destroyed by Them
the target on her back grows
dangerous creatures
fast-paced, thrilling whirlwind of
twists & turns to consume you
MM
November 2014: The Road by Cormac McCarthy, c2006
The Road
decimated land
nameless man & his young son
moving through ashes
frightening novel explores
the best & the worst in us
MM
October 2014: The Circle by Dave Eggers, c2013
The Circle
digital future
ubiquitous company
becoming public
satirical remonstrance
stealthy, sneaky scariness
MM
September 2014: Don't Turn Around (YA) by Michelle Gagnon, c2012
Don't Turn Around
runaways' rough world
woke up with chest cut open
running off the grid
hackers' dangerous mission
must be prepared to read more
MM
August 2014: Maggot Moon (YA) by Sally Gardner, c2012
Maggot Moon
everything's hopeless
people struggling to exist
ruthless regime's plot
told in brutal, brief chapters
dark, haunting, packs a wallop
MM
July 2014: A Matter of Days (YA) by Amber Kizer, c2013
A Matter of Days
Blustar pandemic
survivors or statistics?
trek across country
lawlessness and destruction
humanity on the line
MM
June 2014: Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell, c1949
Nineteen Eighty-Four
thought-controlled future
life in a glass paperweight
evil runs amok
pure creepiness since it is
already happening now
MM
May 2014: Outlaw (YA) by Stephen Davies, c2011
Outlaw
Saharan desert
kidnapped brother and sister
who is the bad guy?
fascinating survival
tricks and power plays abound
MM
April 2014: Legend (YA) by Marie Lu, c2011
Legend
vicious government
pitted against each other:
vengeance, survival
action gathers momentum
hard-hitting intensity
MM
March 2014: Cinder (YA) by Marissa Meyer, c2012
Cinder
plague-ridden future
Lunars & Earthlings collide
wickedness unmasked
the evilest evil queen
and a cyborg steal the show
MM
February 2014: Archetype by M.D. Waters, c2014
Archetype
where females are rare
her dream-like memories war
the master of souls
science fiction and romance
rolled into one great novel
MM
January 2014: The 5th Wave (YA) by Rick Yancey, c2013
The Fifth Wave
aliens invade
humanity ripped apart
to run or to face
hold-your-breath adventure with
tightly plotted twists and turns
MM
December 2013: The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly, c2006
The Book of Lost Things
where books whisper truths
grieving alone through the grim
his innocence ends
poetic story for all
dark and deep and powerful
MM
November 2013: The Great Wide Sea (YA) by M. H. Herlong, c2008
The Great Wide Sea
year on a sailboat
three young brothers lost at sea
stranded, abandoned
sailing survival story
destined to be a classic
MM
October 2013: The Dog Stars by Peter Heller, c2012
The Dog Stars
wake of disaster
forced symbiosis post-flu
in search of a voice
emotional, sensitive
dystopian for adults
MM
September 2013: Insignia (YA) by S.J. Kincaid, c2012
Insignia
virtual war waged
teen combatants controlled by
neural transmitters
futuristic; funny too
Is this the path we're heading?
MM
August 2013: Ready Player One by Ernest Cline, c2011
Ready Player One
virtual space hunt
following fiendish riddles
death, wealth, and power
wildly imaginative
adrenaline-charged . . . Game on!
MM
July 2013: Unwind (YA) by Neal Shusterman, c2007
Unwind
cross-country escape
three teen runaways to be
salvaged body parts
peel away layers to find
a queasy proposition
MM
June 2013: Glass House 51 by John Hampel, c2013
Glass House 51
digital bullies;
merely stored magnetic fields;
privacy extinct.
fascinating ideas;
social control reckoning
MM
May 2013: The Passage by Justin Cronin, c2010
The Passage
future ruled by fear
a one-hundred-year-old child
chilling mutations
well-written epic thriller;
readers will be riveted
MM
April 2013: Revolver (YA) by Marcus Sedgwick, c2009
Revolver
a lonely cabin
a terrifying stranger
an old loaded Colt
compelling, intense, and harsh
as the Alaskan frontier
MM
MARVELOUS NONFICTION BOOK OF THE MONTH ARCHIVE
March/April 2018: Guardians of Being by Eckhart Tolle, art by Patrick McDonnell, c2009
Guardians of Being
the power of now:
joy in the moment with pets
oneness of all life
spiritual thoughts combined
with charming illustrations
MM
February 2018: Six Seasons: A New Way with Vegetables by Joshua McFadden, c2017
Six Seasons: A New Way with Vegetables
by Joshua McFadden
with Martha Holmberg
c2017
Four Seasons Farm, Maine
puts the chef in the garden
pure veggie magic
inventive, fresh recipes
in praise of earth’s offerings
MM
January 2018: The Wildcrafted Cocktail by Ellen Zachos, c2017
The Wildcrafted Cocktail
by Ellen Zachos
c2017
forest to pantry
basics to extremely wild
tasty concoctions
unique deliciousness mixed
with beautiful visuals
MM
February/March/April 2017: A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle, c2005
A New Earth
life-changing message
rejects the egoic mind
for a rich, true life
shift in consciousness needed
for a more sane, loving world
MM
January 2017: Every Breath You Take by Rose Elliot, c2016
Every Breath You Take
simple happiness
sixteen ways to be mindful
great for beginners
based on Buddha’s instructions
step-by-step to feel the peace
MM
December 2016: What If? by Randall Munroe, c2014
What If?
witty ponderings
crazy hypotheticals
masterful answers
both serious & silly
funny & informative
MM
September - November 2016: The Zen Teacher by Dan Tricarico, c2015
The Zen Teacher
lowering your stress
transform yourself & your class
~ What really matters ~
insightful tips towards a
better quality of life
MM
Summer 2016: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle, c1999
The Power of Now
embrace the present
accessing your deepest self
free of too much mind
key to freedom & true peace
deserves multiple readings
MM
May 2016: The Dog Who Could Fly by Damien Lewis, c2014
The Dog Who Could Fly
World War II missions
unshakable loyalty
unbreakable bonds
Czech airman & his brave dog's
extraordinary journey
MM
April 2016: Savor by Ilona Oppenheim, c2016
Savor
forest, field, and farm
natural ingredients
pure deliciousness
recipes & so much more . . .
gloriously beautiful
MM
February/March 2016: The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans & Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown, c2013
The Boys in the Boat
Depression era
collection of underdogs
Determination
masterful nonfiction with
ageless appeal -- Inspiring!
MM
January 2016: The Secret by Rhonda Byrne, c2006
The Secret
down through the ages
thoughts create reality
bringing joy to life
have, be, or do anything . . .
a must-read for everyone
MM
December 2015: How We Learn by Benedict Carey, c2014
How We Learn
sifting through research
explore many theories
to build brain power
perspective on distractions
challenges current notions
MM
November 2015: Saving Simon: How a Rescue Donkey Taught Me the Meaning of Compassion by Jon Katz, c2014
Saving Simon
depths of bonds we form
formerly forlorn turns friend
power of healing
thoughtful, heartfelt, uplifting
resiliency of spirit
MM
October 2015: The Port Chicago 50 (YA) by Steve Sheinkin, c2014
The Port Chicago 50
massive explosion
segregated Navy base
mutiny trial
photos and facts bring to light
unknown Civil Rights heroes
MM
August/September 2015: Healing Spices by Dr. Bharat B. Aggarwal, c2011
Healing Spices
easy to prepare
secrets to beating disease
for maximum health
outstanding overview to
apply in everyday life
MM
July 2015: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo (c2011) translated from the Japanese by Cathy Hirano, c2014.
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
a simple system
to put your home in order
ending in pure joy
powerful, awesome results
that inspire a better life
MM
June 2015: The Man Who Loved Books Too Much by Allison Hoover Bartlett, c2009
The Man Who Loved Books Too Much
allure of rare books
a bibliomaniac
passion to collect
true-crime story extending
one's literary insight
MM
May 2015: Stuff Matters: Exploring the Marvelous Materials That Shape Our Manmade World by Mark Miodownik, c2014
Stuff Matters
everyday objects
of human needs & desires
seen in a new light
science for the common man
made highly entertaining
MM
April 2015: The Warrior's Heart: Becoming a Man of Compassion and Courage (YA) by Eric Greitens, c2012
The Warrior's Heart
all around the globe
within the midst of hardship
living with purpose
inspiration for us all:
make a real difference
MM
March 2015: Nocturne: Creatures of the Night by Traer Scott, c2014
Nocturne: Creatures of the Night
from around the world
wild nighttime ambassadors
reveal their natures
brilliant, close-up photographs
fascinating facts for all
MM
February 2015: The Birds of Pandemonium: Life Among the Exotic & the Endangered by Michele Raffin, c2014
The Birds of Pandemonium
bird sanctuary
endangered, hurt, abandoned
caring for our world
completely remarkable
joyful, touching, inspiring
MM
January 2015: Marzi: A Memoir by Marzena Sowa with art by Sylvain Savoia (c2001) translated from the French by Angali Singh, c2009
Marzi
Communist Poland
small girl caught in iron fists
and coming-of-age
an honest first-hand account
told in graphic novel form
MM
December 2014: Popular: A Memoir - Vintage Wisdom for a Modern Geek (YA) by Maya Van Wagenen, c2014
Popular
school's social ladder
shy girl & '50s teen guide
popularity
brave social experiment
eighth grader's memoir -- Timeless.
MM
November 2014: The Telling Room: A Tale of Love, Betrayal, Revenge, and the World's Greatest Piece of Cheese by Michael Paterniti, c2013
The Telling Room
picturesque village
larger-than-life characters
everlastingness
epiphany via cheese
with Spain's history mixed in
MM
October 2014: The Boy on the Wooden Box: A Memoir (YA) by Leon Leyson,c 2013
The Boy on the Wooden Box
concentration camps
youngest boy on Schindler's list
trapped in Nazis' hell
child's Holocaust perspective
told with dignity and grace
MM
September 2014: How I Discovered Poetry (YA) by Marilyn Nelson, c2014
How I Discovered Poetry
an Air Force childhood
searching for identity
1950s' life
told in fifty keen sonnets
to treasure, re-read, reflect
MM
August 2014: D-Day: The Invasion of Normandy, 1944 (YA) by Rick Atkinson, c2014
D-Day
battle theatre
liberation arriving
by sky and by sea
ferocious bravery &
heartbreaking realities
MM
July 2014: Frozen in Time: An Epic Story of Survival and a Modern Quest for Lost Heroes of World War II by Mitchell Zuckoff, c2013
Frozen in Time
perilous Greenland
flyers of the ice and snow
pure perseverance
remarkable bravery
Wow! What a great adventure!
MM
June 2014: Indian Creek Chronicles by Pete Fromm, c1993
Indian Creek Chronicles
winter wilderness
sharp observer of nature
becoming a man
experience solitude
adventure, wonder, and awe
MM
May 2014: Becoming Ben Franklin (YA) by Russell Freedman, c2013
Becoming Ben Franklin
dawn of a country
absolutely amazing
man of great wisdom
brief, enlightening timeline
a life to whom we owe much
MM
April 2014: Primates: The Fearless Science of Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, and Biruté Galdikas (YA) by Jim Ottaviani & Maris Wicks, c2013
Primates
deep in the jungle
risking life for their research
collecting knowledge
clever compression of facts
inspired entertainment
MM
March 2014: Gun Control in the Third Reich by Stephen P. Halbrook, c2013
Gun Control in the Third Reich
hidden history
to be ignored at peril
pertinent today
thoroughly documented
scholarly, essential read
MM
February 2014: Words Wound: Delete Cyberbullying and Make Kindness Go Viral by Sameer Hinduja & Justin W. Patchin, c2013
Words Wound
online harassment
protect yourself and others
clear actions to take
great questions to think about
tips useful and true to teens
MM
January 2014: Quiet: The Power of the Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain, c2012
Quiet
the human psyche
quest to understand silence
how we think and work
balanced, intriguing insights
readable, empowering
MM
December 2013: Extraordinary, Ordinary People: A Memoir of Family by Condoleezza Rice, c2010
Extraordinary, Ordinary People
roots deep in the south
rise above prejudices
her life growing up
autobiography paints
steadfast family portrait
MM
November 2013: Lincoln's Grave Robbers (Juv NF) by Steve Sheinkin, c2012
Lincoln's Grave Robbers
counterfeiting gangs
Coneys, Ropers, Shovers, Ghouls
ransom stolen corpse
wild true crime thriller tells of
Secret Service beginnings
MM
October 2013: Bomb: The Race To Build -- And Steal -- The World's Most Dangerous Weapon (YA) by Steve Sheinkin, c2012
Bomb
science amidst war
world dominance up for grabs
plotting, risks, deceit
complicated simply told
smooth as a suspense novel
MM
September 2013: Nothing Comes Easy: My Life in Football by Y.A. Tittle, with Kristine Setting Clark, c2009
Nothing Comes Easy
when football was tough
glorious, hard-hitting, true
a stellar career
catch a behind-the-scenes view
of NFL history
MM
August 2013: How They Croaked: The Awful Ends to the Awfully Famous (YA) by Georgia Bragg, c2011
How They Croaked
pre-medicine times
from young King Tut to Einstein
grim details defined
ugly messes, blood, and more . . .
you MUST have the guts for gore!
MM
July 2013: Their Skeletons Speak: Kennewick Man and the Paleoamerican World (YA) by Sally M. Walker and Douglas W. Owsley, c2012
Their Skeletons Speak
North America
skeletons sparking debate
new revelations
fascinating science with
underlying mysteries
MM
June 2013: Relish: My Life in the Kitchen by Lucy Knisley, c2013
Relish
cooking, eating, life
recipes and zesty fun
food celebration
marvelously delightful
memoir through and through. Scrumptious!
MM
May 2013: The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, c2005
The Glass Castle
nomadic childhood
eccentric, funny, and sad
complete poverty
engrossing and triumphant
readers left in wonderment
MM
April 2013: The Mighty Mars Rovers: The Incredible Adventures of Spirit and Opportunity (YA) by Elizabeth Rusch, c2012
The Mighty Mars Rovers
with awe and wonder
witness triumphs and defeats
in the water quest
you will find yourself rooting
for this great, spunky duo
MM
March 2013: Moonwalking With Einstein: The Art & Science of Remembering Everything by Joshua Foer, c2011
Moonwalking With Einstein
workings of the brain
quest for memory's nature
mental athletics
quirky and informative
remarkable beyond doubt
MM
February 2013: The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher: A Shocking Murder & the Undoing of a Great Victorian Detective by Kate Summerscale, c2008
The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher
an English manor
a secretive family
a true crime unsolved
catch detective fever and
witness the birth of sleuthing
MM
January 2013: Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before by Tony Horwitz, c2002
Blue Latitudes
Cook's lands then and now
brought to life, a life explored
via grand ventures
a clever jaunt across time
be prepared to be enthralled
MM
December 2012: Just My Type: A Book About Fonts by Simon Garfield, c2010.
Just My Type
who knew? discover
fonts with personalities;
typography lore
you will never look at words
in print the same way again!
MM
November 2012: The Joy of X: A Guided Tour of Math From One to Infinity by Steven Strogatz, c2012
The Joy of X
an integer world
beautiful numbers amaze
mind stimulation
an awesome arithmetic
narrative -- no test -- just fun
MM
October 2012: The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis, c2010
The Big Short
black hole properties
unlikely heroes who see
the risks compounding
a business tale chronicled
clever and fascinating
MM
MARVELOUS NOVEL OF THE MONTH ARCHIVE
March/April 2018: The Wonder by Emma Donoghue, c2017
The Wonder
old Irish village
observes fasting miracle
faith, trust, & the truth
unsettling look at ethics
and perils of assumptions
MM
February 2018: Girl in Snow by Danya Kukafka, c2017
Girl in Snow
by Danya Kukafka
c2017
circling teen’s murder
beats the heart of voyeurism
loving from afar
where sight is not always true
powerful, lovely, gritty
MM
January 2018: The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley by Hannah Tinti, c2017
The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley
by Hannah Tinti
c2017
while coming of age
criminal past told through scars
father-daughter bonds
compelling action surrounds
study of parental love
MM
March/April 2017: The Girl Before by JP Delaney, c2017
The Girl Before
ultra modern house
of deadly duplicity
looking for order
imposed minimalism adds
to multi-layered deceit
MM
February 2017: Lily’s House by Cassandra Parkin, c2017
Lily’s House
finely layered depths
after her grandmother’s death
secrets still remain
gorgeously descriptive with
an edge that flirts with darkness
MM
January 2017: The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden, c2016
The Bear and the Nightingale
deepest old Russia
delightfully wild and strong
standing up to fears
transcending limits: lovely,
enchanting, mesmerizing
MM
December 2016: Fields Where They Lay by Timothy Hallinan, c2016
Fields Where They Lay
days before Christmas
dodging shopping and bullets
mobsters, murder, scams
hard-boiled crime novel with tons
of cynicism and quick wit
MM
October/November 2016: The Ice Twins by S.K. Tremayne, c2015
The Ice Twins
pure isolation
sees one child through the other
flawed, distorted views
slowly the truth emerges
in ghostly revelations
MM
September 2016: We Could Be Beautiful by Swan Huntley, c2016
We Could Be Beautiful
among the richest
she’s blinded by privilege
feeling incomplete
strange, cruel twists punctuate
a wickedly smart debut
MM
August 2016: The Tumbling Turner Sisters by Juliette Fay, c2016
The Tumbling Turner Sisters
1919 set
a double bildungsroman
growing up in vaudeville
whimsical seriousness
with pure authentic feeling
MM
July 2016: Touch by Alexi Zentner, c2011
Touch
painful wonderment
waiting in the winter woods
with faith to reclaim
wonderful story whirled in
lovely prose of tender loss
MM
June 2016: Before the Fall by Noah Hawley, c2016
Before the Fall
unchecked media
the rich and down-on-his-luck
plane crash aftermath
brilliant use of deep suspense
deftly unfolds their secrets
MM
May 2016: Child of My Heart by Alice McDermott, c2002
Child of My Heart
‘sixties’ East Hampton
precocious, complex, adored
one crucial summer
passage from girl to woman
poignantly told with sharp grace
MM
April 2016: The One-in-a-Million Boy by Monica Wood, c2016
The One-in-a-Million Boy
after young boy’s death
the restless and senescent
world records to set
spotlights the brilliance of life
like morning birdsong ~ Stirring.
MM
March 2016: The Memory Painter by Gwendolyn Womack, c2015
The Memory Painter
enemy’s watching
recovering their past lives
sweeping across time
suspense & romance spanning
ten thousand years flawlessly
MM
February 2016: The Memory Weaver by Jane Kirkpatrick, c2015
The Memory Weaver
hostage at age ten
determined young lady with
pioneer spirit
aftermath of Cayuse raid
transcends the well-researched facts
MM
January 2016: Ashley Bell by Dean Koontz, c2015
Ashley Bell
daring young woman
keeping secrets from herself
dimensions hidden
captivating storylines
help unfurl the repressed truth
MM
December 2015: The Visitant by Megan Chance, c2015
The Visitant
1884
aged, crumbling palazzo filled
with vengeful spirits
gothic Venice ghost story
brimmed with sensuality
MM
November 2015: The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova, c2010
The Swan Thieves
painter's universe
mind of a troubled genius
art & obsession
century-old mystery
masterfully brought to light
MM
October 2015: The Expats by Chris Pavone, c2012
The Expats
suspicions surmount
she is former CIA
to trust or deceive
twist after twist after twist
brilliant, complex spy novel
MM
September 2015: Among Others by Jo Walton, c2010
Among Others
fairies & magic
flees from her half-mad mother
to rebuild a life
subtle story of grief; a
love letter to sci-fi greats
MM
August 2015: The Book of Speculation by Erika Swyler, c2015
The Book of Speculation
carnivals & sea
certain serendipity
leads to you & me
sneaky writing builds a strange
dark mood to unveil a curse
MM
July 2015: The Last Runaway by Tracy Chevalier, c2013
The Last Runaway
far from Quaker home
stitching her life together
in a new country
gorgeous in simplicity
immersed in vivid details
MM
June 2015: The Sound of Glass by Karen White, c2015
The Sound of Glass
South Carolina
she's unraveling their past
shattering secrets
multilayered mystery
enveloped in southern charm
MM
May 2015: The Color Master by Aimee Bender, c2013
The Color Master
our world & others
normal to strange to hidden
life transcending life
sublime, dreamy short stories
with fresh wisps of myth. Wondrous.
MM
April 2015: The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins, c2015
The Girl on the Train
a missing woman
wanting what someone else has
control & deceit
emotionally intense
modern-day Hitchcock thriller
MM
March 2015: The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin, c2014
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry
island bookstore home
crotchety owner finds child
giving life meaning
sweet tale of transformations
with twists connecting through books
MM
February 2015: The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion, c2013
The Rosie Project
love via survey
smart yet socially challenged
human connections
sweet, quirky, funny romance
definitely fun to read
MM
January 2015: Vanessa and Her Sister by Priya Parmar, c2015
Vanessa and Her Sister
by Priya Parmar
c2015
Virginia Woolf's world:
arty thinkers drifting in
kinships & friendships
captivating, insightful --
Did not want story to end!
MM
December 2014: The Wolves of Midwinter by Anne Rice, c2013
The Wolves of Midwinter
shimmering estate
werewolves entwined with yuletide
renewal of souls
uncommon Christmas story
venture into abundance
MM
November 2014: Still Life With Bread Crumbs by Anna Quindlen, c2014
Still Life With Bread Crumbs
city-to-rural
photographer once famous
new chapters in life
mature ladies' tender tale
feel-good ending ties things up
MM
October 2014: Someone by Alice McDermott, c2013
Someone
'forties and forward
ordinary life yet more
to be loved, treasured
masterful storytelling
poetically detailed
MM
September 2014: Boy, Snow, Bird by Helen Oyeyemi, c2014
Boy, Snow, Bird
'fifties and 'sixties
they're not what they seem to be
passing relations
totally unexpected
modern issues, Snow White twist
MM
August 2014: Dear Life: Stories by Alice Munro, c2012
Dear Life
Landscape of longing
Inside all our beating hearts
Vestiges of change
Essential ~ wistful ~ timeless
Storytelling elegance
MM
July 2014: The City by Dean Koontz, c2014
The City
turbulent 'sixties
must see the world as it is
mayhem, trust, goodness
wonderful storytelling
music to make life sparkle
MM
June 2014: All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, c2014
All the Light We Cannot See
Saint-Malo, French Coast
young lives caught up in a war
connected by sound
a stunning story told through
absolutely gorgeous prose
MM
May 2014: The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker, c2013
The Golem and the Jinni
1899
immigrants to a new world
unlikely friendships
study of human nature
through unique eyes. Spellbinding!
MM
April 2014: Before I Go To Sleep by S.J. Watson, c2011
Before I Go To Sleep
life unrecognized
each morning she's a stranger . . .
Who indeed is he?
a riveting mystery
with a chilling conclusion
MM
March 2014: The Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. Auel, c1980
The Clan of the Cave Bear
the dawn of mankind
remarkable survivor
beautiful, harsh life
get swept away in scenic
details . . . a stunning saga
MM
February 2014: The Cove by Ron Rash, c2012
The Cove
the back of beyond
waiting for life to begin
fate overshadows
haunting German novella
lyrical, dark, and tragic
MM
January 2014: City of Thieves by David Benioff, c2008
City of Thieves
a starving country
hunt for the impossible
boys becoming men
with a unique perspective
journey through enemy lines
MM
December 2013: The Painted Kiss by Elizabeth Hickey, c2005
The Painted Kiss
Vienna's lushness
beguiling and passionate
unbreakable bonds
two historical figures
brought to life beautifully
MM
November 2013: Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman, c1995
Practical Magic
town entwined with charms
leaving witchery whispers
tied to sisterhood
ups and downs of true love told
through clever imaginings
MM
October 2013: The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova, c2005
The Historian
time and borders crossed
on the true Dracula's trail
confronting evil
richly atmospheric and
steeped in history. Haunting.
MM
September 2013: The Man in My Basement by Walter Mosley, c2004
The Man in My Basement
race relationships
trapped in their own helplessness
seeking redemption
philosophy exploring
power and identity
MM
August 2013: Where'd You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple, c2012
Where'd You Go, Bernadette
all lonely yet loved
Antarctica catalyst
a mom disappears
cleverly told in snippets
fresh, funny, fantastic fun
MM
July 2013: The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton, c2012
The Secret Keeper
being someone else
seized by the past, chasing ghosts
untangling the web
perfectly smooth prose infused
with twist after pleasing twist
MM
June 2013: The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender, c2010
The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake
wistful family
taste of hidden emotions
unwanted insight
boldness of everyday life
utterly strange, bittersweet
MM
May 2013: The Lantern by Deborah Lawrenson, c2011
The Lantern
Provence lavender
obsessed with finding answers
turn enchanted days
full of mystery and scents
lush and dark -- modern gothic
MM
April 2013: The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman, c2012
The Light Between Oceans
thrashing waves rising
consequences and choices
undefended hearts
tangled moral dilemmas
moving, heart-rending debut
MM
MARVELOUS TRANSLATION ARCHIVE
Tram 83: by Fiston Mwanza Mujila (c2014) translated from the French by Roland Glasser, c2015.
Tram 83
Congo mining town
complete seediness abounds
hope trapped in corners
experimental, somewhat
surreal, exotic read
MM
The President’s Hat by Antoine Laurain (c2012) translated from the French by Gallic Books, c2013
The President’s Hat
by Antoine Laurain (c2012)
translated from the French by Gallic Books, c2013
France, Mitterrand’s time
black felt hat with style & more
wearer’s dreams come true
lively & funny & fun
romp through the 1980s
MM
And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer: A Novella by Fredrik Backman (c2016) translated from the Swedish by Alice Menzies, c2016
And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer
in his twilight years
three generations learning
how to say goodbye
precious memories linger
through dreamlike bewilderment
MM
Sirius by Jonathan Crown (c2014) translated from the German by Jamie Searle Romanelli, c2015
Sirius
one smart little dog
from Berlin to Hollywood
transform to live on
whimsical writing explores
nature of identity
MM
The Altogether Unexpected Disappearance of Atticus Craftsman by Mamen Sánchez (C2013) translated from the Spanish by Lucy Greaves, c2015
The Altogether Unexpected Disappearance of
Atticus Craftsman
literary trip
five fierce Spanish girls and a
missing Englishman
madcap cultural caper
in breezy, light-hearted style
MM
What We Become by Arturo Pérez-Reverte (c2012) translated from the Spanish by Nick Caistor & Lorenzo Garcia, c2015
What We Become
traveling the world
witnesses of each other
the haves, the have-not
high-stakes passion, betrayals,
chess, & a gentleman thief
MM
Britt-Marie Was Here by Fredrik Backman (2014) translated from the the Swedish by Henning Koch, c2016
Britt-Marie Was Here
crumbling little town
warm heart, socially awkward
cleaning up one’s life
peculiar characters and
soccer encircle it all
MM
The Diving Pool: Three Novellas by Yoko Ogawa (1990, 1991) translated from the Japanese by Stephen Snyder, c2008
The Diving Pool
trio of females
with dark possibilities
extreme loneliness
slightly creepy, surreal
plotlines that will follow you
MM
The Blue Fox by Sjon (c2014) translated from the Icelandic by Victoria Cribb, c2008
The Blue Fox
Icelandic Winter
nature & humans being
man's transformations
very brief tale with depth and
mysterious qualities
MM
The Yellow Eyes of Crocodiles by Katherine Pancol (c2006) translated from the French by William Rodarmor & Helen Dickinson, c2013
The Yellow Eyes of Crocodiles
family travails
mother of two left behind
wild scheme to publish
fun array of characters
warm tale with hints of laughter
MM
MARVELOUS UPCOMING NEW BOOK ARCHIVE
April 4, 2017: Foxlowe by Eleanor Wasserberg
Foxlowe
young girl’s perspective
moorland commune disaster
before & after
strange residuum unfolds
in darkly compelling ways
MM
March 21, 2017: The Cutaway by Christina Kovac, c2017
The Cutaway
Washington, DC
young TV news producer
ruthless ambition
author’s insider knowledge
enriches the first-rate plot
MM
February 7, 2017: Always by Sarah Jio
Always
‘90s Seattle
a lucky unlucky girl
finding her true love
seamlessly woven timelines:
Which fiancé does she choose?
MM
November 1, 2016: Faithful by Alice Hoffman
Faithful
Awful Accident
trying to destroy herself
fateful night’s burden
she’s Guilt surrounded by Love
a lost soul’s coming-of-age
MM
June 28, 2016: All the Missing Girls by Megan Miranda
All The Missing Girls
a small, Southern town
destroying the living to
find the dead at last
cleverly told in reverse:
How far would you go for love
MM
May 16, 2016: The After Party by Anton DiSclafani
The After Party
Houston’s River Oaks
chasing grown woman’s secrets
devotion . . . or obsession
exquisitely formed tension
great 1950s details
MM
April 26, 2016: Tumbledown Manor by Helen Brown
Tumbledown Manor
Aussie countryside
buying back her heritage
not over-the-hill
little bit of everything
somehow works — cute, fun beach read
MM
April 5, 2016: The Last Painting of Sara De Vos by Dominic Smith
The Last Painting of Sara De Vos
threads intersecting
Dutch artist & her forger
centuries apart
showcasing art’s power in
brilliantly rendered layers
MM
March 1, 2016: The Passenger by Lisa Lutz
The Passenger
city-to-city
life on the run outrunning
her identity
dark thriller -- could not put down
knock-your-socks-off surprises
MM
February 2, 2016: Into the Magic Shop: A Neurosurgeon's Quest to Discover the Mysteries of the Brain and the Secrets of the Heart by James R. Doty, MD
Into the Magic Shop
memoir and science
energy of mind & heart
making dreams come true
bold, exceptional primer
to shape your life step-by-step
MM
October 20, 2015: The Lake House by Kate Morton
The Lake House
lovely Cornwall home
past & present intertwine
a baby missing
well-plotted mystery with
threads tied up amazingly
MM
September 8, 2015: Drowning Is Inevitable (YA) by Shalanda Stanley
Drowning Is Inevitable
bold bonds of friendship
lives spiral out of control
How far will they go?
emotionally wrenching
beautiful gem of a book
MM
June 30: Death in Brittany by Jean-Luc Bannalec (c2015) translated from the German by Sorcha McDonagh, c2015
Death in Brittany
croissants & sea air
caught in a web of silence
curious murder
good old-fashioned mystery
dipped in the French countryside
MM
June 16, 2015: Every Last Word (YA) by Tamara Ireland Stone
Every Last Word
hidden room mismatched
teen swimming in OCD
listen, clap, and breathe
quirky cast discovering
friendship through shared poetry
MM
March 10, 2015: Nightbird (Juv Fic) by Alice Hoffman
Nightbird
two hundred year curse
a shadow being revealed
we are who we are
magical story of friends,
family, & hope . . . Charming!
MM
February 24, 2015: The Third Twin (YA) by CJ Omololu
The Third Twin
dates turning up dead
twin sisters blame it on her
twisted mystery
lots of red herrings pepper
this whodunit page-turner
MM
February 10, 2015: The Last Good Paradise by Tatjana Soli
The Last Good Paradise
island get-a-way
all pursuing happiness
caught up in dramas
serious absurdities
highlighting realities
MM
January 27, 2015: Unbecoming by Rebecca Scherm
Unbecoming
web of deception
clever title tells all twice
cultivating lies
psychological twister
with velocity & verve
MM
November 11, 2014: Wakening the Crow by Stephen Gregory
Wakening the Crow
consuming coldness
with musty little secrets
tinged by a nightmare
gloriously different
pure Poe-inspired creepiness
MM
October 29, 2014: The Tone Poet by Mark Rickert
The Tone Poet
living symphony
music-based mysticism roots
all searching for Light
very creative piece where
Echoes of horror rise high
MM
September 16, 2014: Sway (YA) by Kat Spears
Sway
college town high school
the guy with what people want
dealing with his life
sharp humor and hard-core haps --
Hooked from the start. Fantastic.
MM
May 6, 2014: The Memory Garden by Mary Rickert
The Memory Garden
lush scents & secrets
aged friends daring to look back
scattered forgiveness
sweet wisps of witchcraft bound with
botanical beginnings
MM
March 1, 2014: How Sweet the Sound by Amy K. Sorrells
How Sweet the Sound
Southern 'seventies
burdened by swirling sadness
searching for ladders
serious issues addressed
through gentle, lovely writing
MM
February 11, 2014: The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon
The Winter People
in the Devil's Hand
bringing the dead back to life
loose ends; however . . .
multiple timelines converge
pure creepiness through and through
MM
January 28, 2014: Ophelia and the Marvelous Boy (Juv Fic) by Karen Foxlee
Ophelia and the Marvelous Boy
vast, old museum
one brave enough to believe
good versus evil
modern Snow Queen, unique twist
suspense-filled, harrowing fun
MM
August 30, 2013: This Song Will Save Your Life (YA) by Leila Sales
This Song Will Save Your Life
school hierarchies
disc jockey in the making
trying to fit in
realistic portrayals
teen problems matched to music
MM
August 6, 2013: Listening for Lucca (Juv Fic) by Suzanne LaFleur
Listening for Lucca
old beach house of dreams
sees through time, collects the lost
a presence whispers
softly paranormal tale
seizes your heart from the start
MM
July 2, 2013: Whistling Past the Graveyard by Susan Crandall
Whistling Past the Graveyard
'sixties' turbulence
spunky southern nine-year-old
trouble seeking home
look behind all that happens
to find the gifts tucked inside
MM
June 11, 2013: Far Far Away (YA) by Tom McNeal
Far Far Away
in darkest darkness
girl, boy, and Grimm ghost-buddy
evil is revealed
spunky, whimsical fun mixed
with some modern derangement
MM
June 4, 2013: The Yonahlossee Riding Camp for Girls by Anton Disclafani
The Yonahlossee Riding Camp for Girls
Depression era
isolated; obsession
lay claim to your life
selfish main character but
the gentle prose is brilliant
MM
April 15, 2013: One Step Too Far by Tina Seskis
One Step Too Far
nightmare of a twin
running away to forget
trains of tragedies
journey through twist after twist
to unearth the catalyst
MM
April 9, 2013: The Perfect Ghost by Linda Barnes
The Perfect Ghost
Cape Cod's infamous
biographer blending lies
broken beads of facts
a wicked weave of deceit
cloaked in smoky, slow suspense
MM
March 12, 2013: Poison (YA) by Bridget Zinn
Poison
Kingdom of Mohr
a teenage assassin with
passion for potions
fun romp peppered with witches,
fiends, and a really cute pig
MM
January 29, 2013: Revenge: Eleven Dark Tales by Yoko Ogawa, translated from the Japanese by Stephen Snyder
Revenge
cruel life shadows
interconnectedness spins
sad desires' dark knot
simple, effective writing
unusual and unique
MM
January 15, 2013: The Drowning House by Elizabeth Black
The Drowning House
Galveston Island
consequences sidestepping
clouded memories
impressive focus on rich
symbolic details. Bravo!
MM
January 1, 2013: The Dead and Buried (YA) by Kim Harrington
The Dead and Buried
a new home possessed
no one listens, a dead teen
haunted by their pasts
a could-not-put-down ghost tale
Spectacularly Spooky
MM
December 1, 2012: Chojun: A Novel by Goran Powell
Chojun
War, Okinawa
art, caught between two giants
true karate's way
history and fiction blend
skillfully transcending all
MM
November 13, 2012: Refuge (YA) by Carole Rummage
Refuge
red wolf safe haven
youths suffering immense loss
a strange malady
refreshing teen love story --
no over-the-top teen angst
MM
October 30, 2012: Babycakes: A Cupcake Club Romance by Donna Kauffman
Babycakes
island bakery
likable cast, turtles too
new relationships
sweet story and recipes
oh la la! . . . a bit naughty
MM
October 14, 2012: Ashen Winter (YA) by Mike Mullin
Ashen Winter
volcanic snowscape
teens brook both land and minds warped
rescue family
from cannibal gangs amok
a full-on blast of action
MM
October 2, 2012: A Working Theory of Love by Scott Hutchins
A Working Theory of Love
San Francisco fog
son lost, dad computerized
all seeking true paths
relationships delved into
a timely and timeless gem
MM
September 25, 2012: The Assault (Recon Team Angel, book 1) (YA) by Brian Falkner
The Assault
earth now alien
teenage soldiers in disguise
to save humankind
abundant combat action
and one traitor in the mist . . .
MM
September 4, 2012: Blackwood (YA) by Gwenda Bond
Blackwood
hundreds missing, trapped
she is the freak, curse-bearer
the alchemist's void
authentic teen voices lead
swift action right from the start
MM
MARVELOUS YA NOVEL OF THE MONTH ARCHIVE
March/April 2018: Love and First Sight by Josh Sundquist, c2017
Love and First Sight
modern teen romance
born blind but chance to see now
sorting out secrets
great background research makes for
a true-to-life, witting tale
MM
February 2018: Wild Bird by Wendelin Van Draanen, c2017
Wild Bird
by Wendelin Van Draanen
c2017
she’s hit rock bottom:
drastic measures will force her
to reach for her strength
desert survival story
of second chances and more
MM
January 2018: Words in Deep Blue by Cath Crowley, c2017
Words in Deep Blue
by Cath Crowley
c2017
unique bookshop home
there’s oceans of sorrow laced
with layers of hope
importance of love … and words …
marvelously underlined
MM
February/March/April 2017: Caraval by Stephanie Garber, c2017
Caraval
dangerous intrigue
a nighttime, magical game
loyalties tested
richly descriptive treasures
hidden in this fantasy
MM
January 2017: Wink Poppy Midnight by April Genevieve Tucholke, c2016
Wink Poppy Midnight
hiding in the woods
with three separate voices
twisting & turning
blurred lines of their obsessions
immersed in beautiful dread
MM
December 2016: Dead Girls Society by Michelle Krys, c2016
Dead Girls Society
deadly game of dares
someone knows their dark secrets
no choice but to play
psychological fiction
for fans of fast-paced action
MM
October/November 2016: Bone Gap by Laura Ruby, c2015
Bone Gap
evil abducts her
bullied by unknown faces
beyond surfaces
a dreamlike reality
powerful & beautiful
MM
September 2016: Lucy and Linh by Alice Pung, c2016
Lucy and Linh
rich girls’ private school
keeping her true self apart
piecing together
deceiving appearances
needing to be acknowledged
MM
August 2016: The Weight of Feathers by Anna-Marie McLemore, c2015
The Weight of Feathers
escalating feud
mermaid scales & black feathers
slow, forbidden love
magical bloodlines mixed in
poetic, lush imagery
MM
July 2016: Defender by Graham McNamee, c2016
Defender
body found in wall
her dad may be the killer
when truth brings danger
down-to-the-bones mystery
realistic and chilling
MM
June 2016: One by Sarah Crossan, c2015
One
dreams of being teens
conjoined sisters facing one
impossible choice
prepare yourself for the tears
a sensitive portrayal
MM
May 2016: The Midnight Dress by Karen Foxlee, c2013
The Midnight Dress
small Australian town
morose Rose, outgoing Pearl
frail threads of friendship
mystical, eerie, lyric
mystery of missing girl
MM
April 2016: Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse, c2016
Girl in the Blue Coat
World War Amsterdam
girl looking for missing girl
web of Resistance
reluctant heroism
with realistic suspense
MM
March 2016: Swagger by Carl Deuker, c2013
Swagger
high school basketball
trapped between conscience, goals, &
a predator coach
Detailed play-by-play action
surrounds hard-hitting choices.
MM
February 2016: Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys, c2016
Salt to the Sea
haunted by their pasts
hurtling toward disaster
in hopes of escape
breath-taking, lyrical prose
of heart-wrenching tragedy
MM
January 2016: The Nest by Kenneth Oppel, c2015
The Nest
wanting to help while
wicked, wicked wasps watch him
in worries' shadow
multi-layered tension builds
skin-crawling, sinister sting
MM
December 2015: Blackbird Fly by Erin Entrada Kelly, c2015
Blackbird Fly
middle school meanness
misfit abandoned by friends
trying to fit in
learning to go your own way
remarkably authentic
MM
November 2013: In the Shadow of Blackbirds by Cat Winters, c2013
In the Shadow of Blackbirds
blue smoke & whispers
her first true love cannot rest
devil-designed year
ghosts amidst war, the flu, and
a spiritualism craze
MM
September/October 2015: Torn Away by Jennifer Brown, c2014
Torn Away
tornado-ripped town
redefining everything
rebuilding a life
love, loss, hope, & survival
deeply emotional, raw
MM
August 2015: Buzz Kill by Beth Fantaskey, c2014
Buzz Kill
small town USA
her dad's accused of murder
Can she solve the case?
fun, fun, fun mystery rolled
up in wit, sass, and spunk
MM
July 2015: The Prince of Venice Beach by Blake Nelson, c2014
The Prince of Venice Beach
noir surf, sand, & sun
street-smart teen turns private eye
dangerous choices
great characterizations
and unexpected endings
MM
June 2015: Devoted by Jennifer Mathieu
Devoted
Quiverfull church; she's
courageously questioning
her one precious life
sympathetic characters;
honest, balanced, respectful
MM
May 2015: The Scar Boys by Len Vlahos, c2014
The Scar Boys
punk rock & guitars
burned, left feeling like a freak
self-confidence tour
a gritty coming-of-age
filled with music and teen angst
MM
April 2015: Coaltown Jesus by Ron Koertge, c2013
Coaltown Jesus
death in modern day
teen sees witty, wise Jesus
triumph of healing
sparse free verse novel with depth
fresh meditations on life
MM
March 2015: Going Vintage by Lindsey Leavitt, c2013
Going Vintage
cyber-cheating ex
she swears off technology
to make life simpler
a cute, sassy heroine
learning to stand on her own
MM
February 2015: The Beginning of Everything by Robyn Schneider, c2013
The Beginning of Everything
high school seniors mix
playing the expected part
remaking one's self
Great Gatsby implications
bookended by tragedies
MM
January 2015: Beneath a Meth Moon: An Elegy by Jacqueline Woodson, c2012
Beneath a Meth Moon: An Elegy
post-Katrina life
she slipped away so quickly
snagged in addiction
beautifully sorrowful
stunningly realistic
MM
December 2014: The Language Inside by Holly Thompson, c2013
The Language Inside
far from her known home
stressed, desperately homesick
challenging choices
wonderful mesh of cultures
told in perfect, precise verse
MM
November 2014: For Darkness Shows the Stars by Diana Peterfreund, c2012
For Darkness Shows the Stars
our past world shattered
misunderstanding secrets
Austen's Persuasion
in dystopian future
with a whisper of romance
MM
October 2014: She Is Not Invisible by Marcus Sedgwick, c2013
She Is Not Invisible
fears for dad obsessed
blind teen searches foreign streets
making connections
coincidence history
bound in thrilling mystery
MM
September 2014: Dark Water Rising by Marian Hale, c2006
Dark Water Rising
Galveston, Texas
deadly 1900 storm
teen must face his dad
great historical details
based on survivors' journal
MM
August 2014: Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys, c2011
Between Shades of Gray
Lithuania
ripped from home without warning
veiled hope in her art
fluid, gentle prose tells of
Stalin's inhumanity
MM
July 2014: Okay For Now by Gary D. Schmidt, c2011
Okay For Now
late 1960s
faces many challenges
struggling to be more
tears and laugh-out-loud moments
you will cheer for this young man
MM
June 2014: We Were Liars by E. Lockhart, c2014
We Were Liars
a summer idyll
slowly gives herself away
desperate measures
writing worthy of prizes
Splendid. Powerful. Tragic.
MM
May 2014: Orchards by Holly Thompson, c2011
Orchards
bullies' aftermath
depression and suicide
blame, grief, regret, hope
repercussions resonate
Japanese culture entwined
MM
April 2014: The Tyrant's Daughter by J.C. Carleson, c2014
The Tyrant's Daughter
suspicion and fear
a girl half Here & half There
pits of betrayal
all too real, too close to home
a spot-on story. Awesome.
MM
March 2014: The Weight of Water by Sarah Crossan, c2012
The Weight of Water
-- a foreign country
-- a Polish teen immigrant
-- tough bullies to face
powerful story told with
sparse, precise verse. Poetic.
MM
February 2014: Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan, c2013
Counting By 7s
unbearable loss
cast of lovable oddballs
life's connectedness
heartbreaking & heartwarming
a story to rejoice in
MM
January 2014: The Wolf Princess by Cathryn Constable, c2013
The Wolf Princess
far Russian corner
dreams of cold mint diamond snow
discovering home
mysteries and adventures
modern, nostalgic, and wise
MM
December 2013: Bluefish by Pat Schmatz, c2011
Bluefish
real-life teen troubles
finding ways to be themselves
connecting secrets
tall, quiet, new-kid Travis
and sassy Velveeta star
MM
November 2013: Seraphina by Rachel Hartman, c2012
Seraphina
an uneasy truce
humans, dragons, a half-breed
peace destroyer lurks
rich language weaves a perfect
Renaissance fantasy world
MM
October 2013: Midwinterblood by Marcus Sedgwick, c2013
Midwinterblood
future, past, return
say his name, his horns appear
from bloody to blessed
gothic vignettes of orchids,
sacrifice, eternal love
MM
September 2013: The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson, c2011
The Name of the Star
London boarding school
Louisiana teen sees
secret ghost police
romantic and sinister
Ripper mania thriller
MM
August 2013: Summer and Bird by Katherine Catmull, c2012
Summer and Bird
Up world and Down world
two sisters of the swan each
finding their own way
heart strings manipulated
through a wondrous fantasy
MM
July 2013: Incantation by Alice Hoffman, c2006
Incantation
Spain, Fifteen-Hundred
cocooned in secrets, betrayed
a million sorrows
breathtakingly beautiful,
painful, and dappled with hope
MM
June 2013: Bunheads by Sophie Flack, c2011
Bunheads
behind the glamour
intensely competitive
Passion or Romance?
insider details cast light
upon elite ballet world
MM
May 2013: Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein, c2012
Code Name Verity
Gestapo and spies
bravery torture truth ties
switch of perspective
amazing intensity
expertly crafted fiction
MM
April 2013: Bruiser by Neal Shusterman, c2010
Bruiser
words bruises and cuts
he's not what he seems to be
secret's costly price
hard-to-describe uniqueness;
a story that stays with you
MM
March 2013: The Brides of Rollrock Island by Margo Lanagan, c2012
The Brides of Rollrock Island
seal-shaped land oft feared
misery and desire fetched
sea-hearts to ensnare
seductively strange folktale
of an awful loveliness
MM
February 2013: Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo, c2012
Shadow and Bone
the Fold, an unsea
unfolds her dormant powers
deception abounds
mesmerizing fantasy
where the Darkling's elite lead
MM