Teen Lit Review

The 100 Cupboards, Book 1

2012-02-07T17:18:00.001-06:00

Reviewer: Kerin (age 18)
Title: The 100 Cupboards
Author: N.D. Wilson
Primary Audience/Age Group: 8 years-old and up.
Genre: Fantasy
# of pages: 289
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers.
Year of Release: 2007
Part of a Series? Yes, 1 of 3
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes.

Description: Henry York is on a journey. To Kansas.
Sent to visit with his aunt and uncle, and their daughters, Henry isn't sure what to expect from this small town. But finding a wall full of small, strange cupboard doors on the wall of his attic bedroom certainly aren't what he had in mind. Upon further inspection Henry realizes there's something even more special about these doors than first meets the eye -- they're magic. Each door leads to a spectacular new world.

Henry and his cousin, Henrietta, set out to learn all they can about this wonderful discovery, but soon come to realize that the doors aren't just fun and games. While one door leads to a wonderful woodland, another leads to a haunted ball room, and yet another leads to a post office. And one, a disturbing black door, leads to a dark world where something mysterious, and quite possibly deadly, lurks.

This once thrilling and always exciting adventure will lead to more than ever could be dreamed of as they continue to open doors, discover worlds, and even uncover an old family secret.

Review: This was yet another book I honestly wasn't sure what to expect when I picked it up, but it turned out to be pretty addicting. I stayed up several nights even to the point of almost falling asleep just to keep reading. I finished it pretty quickly, and it didn't take me long to find the second book in the series and start reading that as well.

The adventure and plot the author created are so very unique and different - he's created different worlds entirely in just one book. And it's just so easy to fall into the story and feel like you're with the characters. That makes it all the more fun to read.

The writing style the author uses is slightly different from what I normally read - but in a very good way. It was new and unique and just added to the quality of the adventure. His words flow in such a way that they seem to be bringing the story to life before your eyes.

Rating: The book is pretty safe for the age listed and above. There really isn't much to worry about, so I feel confident giving this book a 5.

Positive: Henry is what you would probably call an unlikely hero. He has led an extremely sheltered life up until the point of discovering the cupboards. Though he might be afraid, and even down-right terrified at moments, when it counts he swallows his fear and handles the journey head on. For example, when his cousin Henrietta disappears behind one of the cupboard doors, Henry is afraid to travel through after her but forces himself to face his fear and rescue her. You can see how his character comes to grow and change from the sheltered young boy he is at the beginning to a brave, though possibly reluctant, hero later on.

Spiritual Elements: None really, that I can think of.

Violence: The evil witch in the story is my main concern for violence. She injures a couple of characters in her pursuit of the main hero of the story, whom she intends to 'steal his life force' -- not really killing the character per-se, but using his life energy for herself.
Also, a few of the characters, when defending themselves from the witch, injure her as well -- one even at the last second, swinging a baseball bat. Nothing graphic mind you, but the witch at one point is knocked out. Another character is injured to the point of bleeding briefly. Most of this happens near the climax of the book and is all relatively non-descriptive. The rest of the book is pretty clean from violence.

Language: None

Sexual Content: None.

Other: The main thing to be worried about I think is for younger readers. The evil witch and her pet cat, though only around for a hand-full of chapters, were both pretty creepy and kind of disturbing. There is nothing major. The author doesn't go into gory details by any means. It's just a basic description. But, I just found the character and her pet to be creepy. For some of the younger kids, depending on how well they handle that sort of thing, it might be just a tad much for them. I know some kids have no problem with it (for instance one of friends as a child used to watch and read Goosebumps), while other kids can get easily frightened (like myself when I was younger). So it all depends on how the reader handles those kind of things.

Recommendation: I'd definitely recommend this book. I may have said it before, but I will say it again. It was just so much fun to read. It's so action-packed and filled with mystery and excitement.

And aside from the point I made above about the witch and the slight use of violence, the book is pretty clean. Which, to be honest, is pretty rare anymore - even in some children's books. So, yes, this is definitely something I would recommend.

About the reviewer, Kerin: "I feel truly blessed to be where I am in my life - with loving parents, friends who I would die for, and on the verge of starting college to pursue a career. And though I haven't yet picked a specific path, I know that whatever I choose to do, I want to help people and make a difference. I am a huge bookworm with a passion for both reading and writing in my spare time - though my passion and love for my God outshine both."

The Land of Darkness (The Gates of Heaven Bk 3)

2012-02-05T16:49:00.003-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: The Land of Darkness (The Gates of Heaven Series)
Author: C.S. Lakin
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult, 13+
Genre: Christian Fantasy
# of pages 318
Publisher: Living Ink Books
Year of Release: 2011
Part of a series Yes, 3 of 4 in the Gates of Heaven Series
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Callen, a master apprentice in woodworking, discovers plans for an exquisite, intricately detailed bridge that is fabled to be the passage between the living world and the afterlife. He sets off the find this mysterious masterpiece and along the way rescues 12-year old Jadiel from the clutches of two impetuous scoundrels. Realizing she is his mentor’s niece, Callen vows to protect her when he discovers she is on a mission herself to find the leaves of an Eternal Tree to save her father’s life from the clutches of her evil step-mother. As they grow closer to discovering the truth behind the legends of the Land of Darkness, a sinister being discovers their plans and will do anything to thwart them from finding the truth.

Review: Author C.S. Lakin intertwines the fantasy of fairy tales with Bible truths in this allegorical story of The Land of Darkness. She tells of twelve-year old Jadiel’s quest to save her father from the clutches of Huldah, his new wife, a sinister witch disguised as a breathtaking beauty. As Jadiel is forced on a dangerous quest to find the leaves of the terebinth tree that are said to give eternal beauty, she is rescued by the brave Callen, a young man on a similar mission obsessed to find the bridge to the Land of Darkness. With their missions now combined into one, they must encourage each other to stay on the right path even as they are tested to their limits.

I was impressed with Lakin’s skill in interweaving fiction with Biblical truths, which made the story come to life in more than one way. Since the Bible verses were not referenced until the end of the book, many might not realize they are reading a Christian-based fantasy unless they are familiar with the Bible. Therefore, those who do not typically read Christian fiction might find this book appealing. I also enjoyed her use of parables and how she caused the characters to grow in faith as the story progressed just as Christians grow in faith as they live out their lives for Christ.

Rating: 3 for violence

Positive: One of the main points of the book is beauty is not everything. Jadiel realizes Huldah’s quest for beauty is an empty pursuit that causes her to be miserable. Over and over, Jadiel learns that what is on the inside is more important that what appears on the outside. Along the way the main characters grow and change for the better, especially Callen. Through another character, Callen’s faith in the truth is tested.

Spiritual Elements: Verses from the Bible are used throughout the book although they are not referenced until the end with an added spiritual discussion. “Heaven” is mentioned in several ways (like “heaven bless you”, heaven is watching out for you) to show which characters believe in God. Some characters in the book pray. Jadiel’s name means “may God call to rejoice. She and her family are believers in heaven.

The legend about the Land of Darkness can be compared to the truth in the Bible about God, the Father, sending His Son Jesus into the world to bridge the gap between heaven and earth. The story includes many references to light versus darkness, which are paralleled to Jesus and truth being the light and sin being the darkness.

A big theme in the book is having faith in things that are unseen and eternal. The book used John 20:29 to explain. “Have you believed because you have seen? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.” A large part of being a believer in God is the fact that we have not seen Him, but yet we still believe in Him and the truths that are written in the Bible just as Callen and Jadiel must learn to believe in things that are not seen in order to complete their quest and experience the fullness of their faith.

Huldah uses spells and potions to change her appearance, control others, and even kill others.

Violence: Huldah’s character is one of two dark and sinister villains. Huldah is evil and ruthless and is not afraid to take a life to get what she wants. She is cruel to Jadiel often slapping and kicking her. When her schemes for Jadiel’s death are thwarted, she sends Jadiel on a dangerous quest with the threat if she does not return, Huldah will kill her father. When Ka’rel, Jadiel’s father, finds Jadiel missing, Huldah tells him she has been killed and shows him her blood-soaked clothing. But, Huldah had killed a calf and used its blood instead.

Another villain takes the form of a shadow. His presence causes horrible dreams of “great slaughter and screaming victims” in Jadiel. He easily kills people by constricting their hearts.

The legend of the Land of Darkness includes a king building a bridge that spans the gap between the living world and the afterlife. He sends his son to the living world, but his son is rejected, beaten, and nailed to a stake to die like a criminal.

Language: none

Sexual Content: none

Other: Some of the scenes may be scary. In one instance, the ground shakes, and it seems as though blood is seeping up from the ground.

Some mentions of ale, beer, and wine.

Recommendation: I recommend this book for ages 13 and up. Younger children might find a few parts somewhat scary, especially those with the villains. I would encourage teens to read the discussion about the themes and Bible references used in the book for additional insight.

To Darkness Fled (Blood of Kings, Bk 2)

2012-02-04T16:56:00.000-06:00

By Reviewer Nadine
Title: To Darkness Fled
Author: Jill Williamson
Primary Audience/Age Group: Young Adult
Genre: Fantasy (Christian)
# of Pages: 681
Publisher: Marcher Lord Press
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? Yes (2 of 3 Blood of Kings)
Rating: 3 View Scale
Recommend? YES!

Read review of By Darkness Hid, Book 1

Description: Achan, Vrell, and the Kingsguard Knights flee into Darkness to escape the evil prince. They head for Ice Island—an abandoned prison and frozen wasteland holding what Achan hopes will
be his future army. He’s been called by Arman to lead the world of Er’Rets to freedom—to
light. Both Achan and Vrell learn more about bloodvoicing as they travel. Achan comes to a new
understanding of what kingship entails and grows a deeper relationship with Arman—the One
who called him to be king. Meanwhile, Vrell struggles to keep her gender and identity a secret,
but cannot subdue her growing love for Achan.

The majority of the book covers their travels which, to be honest, I thought would be repetitive
and monotonous (what’s more boring than traveling for weeks on end? Reading about traveling
for weeks on end.), but Williamson’s writing is anything but dull. She throws twists from every
corner and keeps every chapter exciting, unpredictable, and harder to put down.

Review: It’s my second time reading To Darkness Fled and I enjoyed it even more than the first time,
which is surprising. It kept me flipping pages, anxious for answers, and surprised by plot turns.
Reading a well-written Christian fantasy was a new (or at least sorely-missed) experience for
me. And only after reading these first two Blood of Kings novels did I notice what a difference
having a fantasy based on Christ makes. Both during and after the read, I felt uplifted and even
able to focus on God more. I’ve grown closer and closer to the characters—they are very realistic
and believable. Jill Williamson continues to show her skill in writing through making a 600-page
book of mere traveling full of suspense and thrill. I would recommend reading it over the course
of several days—not in one sitting. The characters are traveling through Darkness over a matter
of months and it can get mentally draining for the reader to cover so much ground in a single
day (though I’d love to see someone try! ;)

All the characters in these first two books are convincing, in-depth, and believable. No human
reaction, battle scene, escape attempt, or romantic encounter comes off as sugar coated or
unrealistic. Every character, bad and good, has lifelike motives and desires. Williamson skillfully
emphasizes morals, beliefs, and life priorities through her characters’ eyes. I am also impressed
with her ability to create and describe a new world without bogging down the reader with
explanations, descriptions, or over-the-top details.

Rating: 3 for violence

Positive: The relationships between characters grow strongly through this book. Bonds are
made through travels and hardships. A lot of trust is formed and focus made on faithfulness and
friendship.

Spiritual Elements: Arman continues to seek out Achan and Achan’s faith is turning into his
own. His belief is deepening and you see it becoming part of his character. He continues to
address difficult questions like “Why does evil have power if Arman is God?” and why are
Arman and his Son both worshipped if there’s only “one” God? It stimulates thinking and
growth in the reader—at least it did for me.

Violence: The violence in this book is appropriate for teens and up. It’s a bit higher than in
the first book. Achan and Vrell both enter several life-threatening battles that often leave them
stabbed, bruised, beaten, or tortured. Again, the author keeps the descriptions at a decent level
while continuing a realistic write-up of events. There is one moment where a character gets an
arm severed. The novel deals with the feelings behind causing such damage to a human being as
well as addressing the feelings that come from killing someone—even if it’s in self defense. The
sacredness of life is emphasized greatly in this novel particularly.

Language: None!

Sexual Content: There are some on-the-mouth kisses and a character who’s a bit brazen with
his attraction to women. Achan is forced to seek a bride as the upcoming leader of Er’Rhets and
encounters love potions, which lead to some passionate kisses. On the more severe side, twice,
women are chased and/or kidnapped by ill-seeking men who want to take advantage of them
physically. Their evil intents are alluded to and never gone into detail—older readers (teens and
up) may understand the insinuations whereas younger readers may miss them. Both instances are
resolved through rescue and strong lessons are learned from them of protection and caution. All
scenes are still appropriate, but I would recommend that these books are only read by teens and
older.

Other: None

Recommendation: I definitely recommend this book. It is well-written, a brilliant continuation
of the first, and encourages the reader grow more in his or her thinking and faith. It’s such an
encouragement to see these strong Christian fantasy novels hitting the electronic bookshelves.
They’re exactly what young Christian readers need.

Mimi McGee in Monkey Monday Business

2012-01-25T13:22:00.000-06:00

Reviewed by Shawna
Title: Mimi McGee in Monday Monkey Business
Author: Shan Williams Burklow
Primary Audience/age group: 8+
Genre: Humor
# Of pages: 102
Publisher: The Happy Crayon
Year of Release: 2012
Part of a Series? Yes (More to Come)
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes!

Description: Mimi McGee and her best friend Sam Jenkins have been assigned the most embarrassing part in the school play at the biggest town event of the year, the Hampton Watermelon Festival. They have to find a way to save themselves from the humiliation, but how? Will the quick-witted Mimi and Sam be able to triumph over the watermelon of a mess they have created or become the laughing stock of the town?

Review: Author Shan Williams Burklow has created a clever and amusing tale in Mimi McGee in Monday Monkey Business. Her characters, Mimi and Sam, make quite a riotous team. From secret missions to watermelon bandits, you won’t believe what muddle the pair of friends will find themselves in next. This fast-paced and hilarious tale will keep you kids laughing while teaching them about the importance of being honest.

Rating: 5

Positive: The families presented in the book have strong ties and are all involved within the community. Friendship and honesty are also two very important themes in the book.

Spiritual Elements: The children attend church, particularly choir practice, on a weekly basis.

Violence: A fight breaks out at school.

Language: none

Sexual Content: none

Other:The characters tease each other a lot, especially by assigning nicknames based on certain incidents. Some of the nicknames are not so nice. However, the children have consequences for their unkind behavior.

Recommendation: I highly recommend this book to elementary-aged children and their parents. I think it would be a great teaching tool. The likeability of the characters as well as the humor will draw children in while teaching them the value of being honest. I recommend reading it aloud and discussing the book’s themes together.

By Darkness Hid (Blood of Kings Bk 1)

2012-01-23T14:35:00.002-06:00

Reviewed by Nadine
Title: By Darkness Hid (Blood of Kings, book 1)
Author: Jill Williamson
Primary Audience/Age Group: Young Adult
Genre: Fantasy (Christian)
# of Pages: 352
Publisher: Marcher Lord Press
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? Yes (1 of 3 Blood of Kings)
Rating: 3 for violence (View Scale)
Recommend? YES!

Read the review of To Darkness Fled, Book 2
Description: Achan, a young stray, works in the kitchens of the Sitna Manor. Having no parents, no rank, and a shameful brand marking him as such, his life takes the first of many steps of change when he meets a Kingsguard knight, Sir Gavin. Sir Gavin trains Achan to be his squire. During this time, Achan discovers he can bloodvoice—a type of communication that takes place between minds—though he does not accept or understand it at first.

Three chapters in, the point of view switches to another bloodvoicer, Vrell, a high-ranking daughter of a duchess who’s masquerading as a stray boy to escape an undesired marriage. When her plan takes an unexpected turn (aka. encountering giants, reekats, wars, and underground rivers), she finds herself on a long and trying journey to a strange “master” who only wants to increase her bloodvoicing skills for his own selfish gain.

The book jumps back and forth by chapter from Achan to Vrell, giving the reader an equal and satisfying dose of both, while keeping the storyline moving. Achan and Vrell are thrown together, forming a connection that winds their paths in a way they never expected. Achan is confused about Arman (God), whereas Vrell has a passion for Arman and seeks to spread the truth. Through their interactions and time spent in their minds, the reader learns more about the true God
through the character’s eyes, which is applicable to every Christian’s life.

Review: When I first started reading By Darkness Hid, I wasn’t hugely impressed. It didn’t start with an explosion or secret plot to destroy the world—it began with the main character milking goats. I wondered what I’d gotten myself into, but I pushed through the first couple chapters and I don’t regret a single moment of it. Jill Williamson beautifully weaves in- depth characters that come to life in your imagination and dreams. She spends the majority of this first book in the series establishing who Achan and Vrell are and why you care about them.

The novel is very well-written and understandable. The idea of “bloodvoicing” was explained so thoroughly I even dreamed I could bloodvoice at one point. I especially loved reading a novel that is Christian-based, yet not a typical romance novel. I found myself thinking more often about why I believe in God and mentally answering different questions that the main characters were asking.

Rating: 3 for violence

Positive: There is a lot of humor in Achan’s character. I laughed out loud several times while reading. Morals like obedience, lying, thievery, etc. are addressed in this book, from both character’s points of view. Achan is treated and raised as a stray, but his characteristics are very wholesome and human-like. He fails and succeeds, but his mind and heart are usually seeking the right place.
Spiritual Elements: The focus on God (Arman) and His interaction with people is a focal point in the story. He is seeking Achan out even though Achan does not necessarily believe in Him yet. The book portrays a very good image of God pursuing us as His children. It also addresses the issues of false gods and why they are not the “true God”—setting God apart as the only living God.

Violence: The violence in this book is appropriate for teens and up. The characters enter battles and wars, sparring matches and life-threatening situations. A lot of this deals with sword fighting, piercing arrows, etc. The author describes the scenes appropriately with description to make it come alive (yet keep it appropriate). I felt Achan’s pain at many points, but I never felt ill or disgusted with the writing. Williamson does a good job of keeping the novel clean yet descriptive. There are moments early in the book of bullying where Achan fights the bullies with a little bit of pride and anger mixed in. It’s not long until he learns what is worth fighting for and where fighting is appropriate.

Language: None! Characters express their surprise through fun phrases like, “Pig snout!”

Sexual Content: There are a couple kisses on the cheek and mouth. There is mention of marriage and consummation of the marriage. The mention of these situations is appropriate, but it does allude to a married couple sealing a marriage on the wedding night.

Other: None

Recommendation: I definitely recommend this book. It is well-written, a brilliant story, and encourages the reader grow more in his or her thinking and faith.

Michael Vey The Prisoner of Cell 25

2012-01-08T19:40:00.001-06:00

By Reviewer: Dianne
Title: Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25
Author: Richard Paul Evans
Primary Audience/age group: Middle School and upcoming
Genre: Science Fiction
# Of pages: 325
Publisher: Simon Pulse/Mercury Ink
Year of Release: 2011
Part of a Series? Yes, 1 of ? (Book 2 coming in August, 2012)
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: (From the Book Jacket) “My name is Michael Vey and there’s something you don’t know about me; something that scares people more than you would believe. It’s my secret – and it’s part of the story I’m about to tell you.”

To everyone at Meridian High School, Michael Vey is just your average, ordinary fourteen-year-old. But Michael is anything but ordinary – in fact, he is electric.

When Michael’s best friends, Ostin Liss and cheerleader Taylor Ridley, make an accidental discovery, the three of them learn that there are other kids with similar powers – and that someone, or something is hunting them.

After Michael’s mother is kidnapped, Michael will have to rely on his wits, his unique power, and his friends to combat the hunters, free his mother, and save the others.

Review: Wow, this is a really exciting, fast paced book!

Only seventeen of the fifty-nine babies born at Pasadena General Hospital during the eleven days of testing of a new method of body imaging survived more than two days, but they did not survive unscathed. Each one of them had a physical anomaly which imparted to them a unique characteristic that affected their electrical systems. Michael was able to generate electricity within his body that he could release at will.

Dr. C. James Hatch, who pioneered the imaging procedure, had hushed up any reference to what had happened at Pasadena General and was now searching for the last two survivors that he had not yet apprehended – Michael Vey and Taylor Ridley.

Dr. Hatch fully intended to use these exceptional children to heighten his power for his own nefarious purposes and would go to any lengths to secure their cooperation.

This novel is a classic example of good vs. evil.

Rating: 4 for mild to moderate violence

Positive: Michael shows remarkable courage and restraint in controlling his power, choosing to do the appropriate thing when faced with several bullies. He does, however get pushed beyond his limit when the bullies tried to strip him of his pants.

It is evident that Michael has a deep love and respect for his mother who has taught him strong morals and character. He even manages to befriend the bullies who were tormenting him and comes to understand some of the rationale behind their behavior.

After being captured by Dr. Hatch, Michael refused to commit the atrocities planned by Hatch to garner his loyalty. (Who would you choose to destroy – your mother or your friend?)

This book addresses difficulties that teens face – bullying, difficult decisions, peer pressure, teen crushes, less than ideal home situations – and Michael and his friends must learn to deal with each in turn along with a plethora of other problems. There is much here to initiate discussions about making right choices.

Spiritual Elements: None.

Violence: There was a fair amount of violence, much of it connected with the special abilities of these students. Torture was the word used when students were isolated with the barest of necessities and threatened with electrical shock. One of these special students followed Hatch’s every request and had the ability to virtually suck the life out of the others, causing excruciating headaches. There was little graphic violence. Most of the violence was manifested by playing with the minds of these kids, which could be disturbing to young readers.

Language: None.

Sexual Content: Mild kissing once or twice.

Other: There was mention of an adult drinking beer, and one glass of champagne was served to this group of fifteen year olds to celebrate Taylor’s birthday.

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to teens 14 and up mainly because of the emotional turbulence it could cause in younger readers. The maturity level of younger readers should be used as a guide to determine whether a student could handle the tension. There were many opportunities to choose good over evil even though the choices given were agonizing.

Found (The Missing Book 1)

2012-01-06T10:25:00.000-06:00

Reviewer: Kerin
Title: Found (The Missing Book 1)
Author: Margaret Peterson Haddix
Primary Audience/Age Group: 9-13
Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction
# of pages: 314
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Year of Release: 2008
Part of a Series? Yes, 1 of 4. (The Missing)
Rating: 5 View Scale
Recommend? Yes

Description: Life is pretty normal for thirteen-year-old Jonah and his new friend Chip, school, basketball, annoying little sisters. That is until Jonah gets a mysterious letter in the mail. It has a very simple message: "You are one of the missing."

Convinced he is nothing more than the victim of a prank, Jonah shrugs it off. But when his friend Chip receives a similar letter, leading him to discover a family secret, and then two new letters, this time with a warning, arrive, things take a more sinister turn.

When Jonah and Chip, joined by Jonah's sister Katherine, set out to discover the truth behind the letters and how their pasts of being adopted children are connected, they are thrown headfirst into an adventure that leads to a chilling mystery.

Jonah, Chip and Katherine are determined to find answers, even if this means unearthing an old government cover-up and facing ghost-like opponents that seem to have the ability to literally disappear into thin air.

But they had better be ready for the answers because what they will unearth will not only change their lives, but history as they know it.

Review: When my mom first handed me this book, I honestly wasn't expecting to enjoy it much; she and I have pretty differing tastes when it comes to what we read. But I was desperate for something new to read so I decided to give it a shot. I finished it in two sittings.

There was something so intriguing about the plot and the mystery involved, I just couldn't put it down. It kept me so curious; I wanted to figure out the mystery as badly as the characters in the book itself.

The plot was more different and unique than anything I'd read in quite a while. The change of pace was really refreshing and for the most part, pretty easy to follow. I did get confused during one of the scenes in the book, where the ideas of time-travel (a huge part of the plot) were being explained, but even still, I got the main points of what was being said.

The characters were enjoyable, the plot fleshed out well, and the mystery handled very well.

So, bottom line, it is very good read and a book I would definitely recommend.

Rating: With no language, minimal violence, and virtually no sexual content, I give this book a firm 5.

Positive: The hero of the story, Jonah, is a very positive role model. He is generally a well behaved kid with good morals, especially considering family and friends.

Early on in the series, he promises Chip that he will "do whatever it takes to help him" and even when the situation turns dangerous and they get more than they bargained for, he keeps him promise to Chip. He is also very protective of his little sister. He may become annoyed with her and they may argue from time to time, but he takes his role of big brother very seriously.
He is also pretty respectful to his parents. Though he thinks they can sometimes be "mushy" and "emotional", he wouldn't ever say that to them. He realizes how lucky he is to have loving parents. He does, however, hide things from them when his adventure turns mysterious but partially in an effort to protect them and partly in fear they wouldn't understand. Still it eats away at him to keep something from them.

There is a heavy emphasis on friendship and loyalty through-out the story.

It is also stressed that you don't have to be blood to be family. Jonah, though adopted, is very firm in believing that they are his parents and Katherine is his sister despite the fact that they are not related in blood -- as are his parents and Katherine.

Spiritual Elements: Jonah mentions his parents taking him to church.

Violence: The violence is kept to a minimum. One of the characters, in an attempt to protect the children, tackles a man that is chasing them. Some punches and kicks are thrown as he tries to hold him off.

Near the climax of the book, one character is tasered and another held a point with the taser. A few characters are restrained and a hit or two is thrown by the bad guys.

Language: I don't remember any at all. There may have been one use of the word 'crap', but it's been a few weeks since I read it, and I can't remember for sure.

Sexual Content: The boys talk of one of them maybe having a crush on a girl.

Other: Perhaps the only thing some parents might want to be warned about is that one of the boys, Chip, can be disrespectful to adults, including his parents.
It is implied that he doesn't have a very good relationship with them, and that his father yells at him, and in return, Chip can be rebellious.

In another scene, when speaking to a woman about their mystery, Chip makes a few disrespectful comments.

Recommendation: I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys science fiction and fast-paced adventure. The age range may be 9-13, but I think it's a highly enjoyable story for any age.

It is very appropriate for the younger generation, but still enjoyable for young adults (like myself) and older adults (like my mother, who recommended the book to me).

To parents, if your kids like fast-paced stories with adventure or you want something exciting to get them interesting in reading but want to avoid all the gore, sexual content, and undue language, this is a perfect book for your kids to read and for you to read with them.

The Help

2011-12-23T12:55:00.000-06:00

Reviewed by Nadine
Title: The Help
Author: Kathryn Stockett
Primary Audience/Age Group: Adult (recommended for 17+)
Genre: Historical Fiction
# of Pages: 464
Publisher: Amy Einhorn Books/Putnam
Year of Release: 2009
Part of a Series? No
Rating: 2 View Scale
Recommend? Yes with Reservations

Description: The story follows the point-of-view of three women in the early 1960's--two black women who work as "help" for white families and one white woman, Skeeter Phelan, whose eyes are opened more than any other respectable lady's about the state of the Help. She also stands a good 4 inches taller than any other lady in Jackson, Mississippi. Skeeter's dream is to be a writer and finds herself with a novel idea filled with passion--write about the point of view of the Help. She wants to hear the real opinions of women like Aibileen and Minny who've grown up serving white families, raising white babies, and cooking for helpless white women. What's it like doing all the work, but acting invisible?

When black women finally start opening up, Skeeter and her "anonymous" Help ladies find themselves facing dangers they never thought would touch their lives. One day, a black boy is beaten until he's blind for using a white person's toilet.
The next could be Skeeter for even conversing with black women. What started out as a simple book idea turns into a life-threatening stand. Will Skeeter keep standing to spread this eye-opening view to white families? Will she stand to give the Help a voice? Can they stand the pressure and threats?

Review: I loved The Help. Stockett has unmarked skill in writing each character's voice in a clear and distinct manner. I can read one sentence and know who's talking. I've never been to the south, I never lived in the 60's, and I don't know much history (despite the endless years of school I've attended). Some people say that Stockett's information is inaccurate with the time line or her characters aren't believable. Well, I learned more about black culture, southern culture, and 60's culture than I ever dreamed I could through a novel.
The Help stole my hours of sleep, and I stayed up until 2am reading it more nights in a row than I care to admit. It's an excellent and real read. That being said, it's certainly geared toward and appropriate for adults. Adult situations/topics like violent racism, murder, miscarriages, rape, sex outside of marriage, physical abuse, etc. are touched upon and, in some cases, addressed in detail. Please see the recommendation below.

Rating: 2 for adult topics and language

Positive: So. Many. This novel presents a wonderful view of harmony between the black and white cultures. It is very balanced between Skeeter and the Help in the novel. Though many of the rich white ladies are presented as rich snobs who hate their Help, there are still mentions of the sweet ones who appreciate the Help as real people.

Spiritual Elements: Aibileen, one of the main characters goes to church and says her prayers. She trusts in the Lord and knows that he has a purpose for things. She is the one people go to for prayers and an inspiration in pushing through the hard times, which coat every bit of life.

Violence: There is some violence mentioned and seen throughout this novel that are strongly associated with the culture and political/racial events of that time. There are mentions of black boys being murdered and thrown carelessly to the side. There are stories of mistreatment of the Help and their families. One woman gets beaten by her husband often.

Language: d***, s***, h***, racial slurs like n****r are used often.

Sexual Content: Sexual Content is remarkably low on the romance front, but there is a situation partway through the book of a naked man trying to break and enter a house. There is description of him touching himself and other forms of flaunting his cloth-less state. It's not a pleasant picture, and I encourage the readers to take caution.

Other: None

Recommendation: I recommend this book for adults and older teens. The incident with the naked man has the potential to be very disturbing to teens. The matter is resolved without any of the protagonists getting hurt, though the man is knocked unconscious. The idea of a man trying to break and enter in his crazed state was slightly disturbing to me, and I believe it can negatively affect a younger reader. It does open the door for parents to discuss with teens what they might do if a stranger ever tried to come in the house. The book is extremely well-written, heart-warming, heart-wrenching, and eye-opening. I can't say enough good things about it and I hope that you find yourself determined to live life with the right view and mindset of life, love, and people.

Triple Dog Dare: One Year of Dynamic Devotions for Boys

2011-12-13T21:10:00.003-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: Triple Dog Dare
Author: Jeremy V. Jones
Primary Audience/age group: ages 9-12
Genre: Devotions, Non-fiction
# of pages 432
Publisher: David C. Cook
Year of Release: 2011
Part of a series No (but there is a version for girls: Truth or Dare)
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description/Review: Have you ever taken a triple dog dare, the kind of dare you cannot turn down or be labeled a coward? Jeremy V. Jones has taken this challenge and put it to task in this daily set of devotions entitled Triple Dog Dare. Each day verses or passages from the Bible are given to be read along with a short devotion. Then, three Triple Dog Dare challenges are given to encourage boys to put what they have learned into action. Weekend devotions have even more ways to put faith into action by challenging boys to do certain creative tasks like making a movie or writing a comic strip. Boys ages 9-12 will find this a thought-provoking, faith-building and overall fun read.

Rating: 5

Positive: The book is filled with positive aspects. Each day deals with a new subject that encourages boys to set goals, do good deeds and have the right priorities. Many of the devotions deal with relationships such as needing to have close friends to rely on and treating women and girls with respect. Several focus on money encouraging boys to put it in its place with God always being first, using money wisely and avoiding greed. The book also encourages boys to set good examples for others, show humility and have respect for parents and other authority figures. Making wise decisions concerning media is another positive along with many others.

Spiritual Elements: The subjects of the devotions are based on Scripture. Many of the weekend devotions go into detail about courageous men from the Bible and how boys can look to them as examples. The challenges encourage memorizing Scripture, praying for enemies, forgiving others, and avoiding temptation. Many devotions teach about relying on God, being changed for the better through God, and using God-given abilities to serve. Jesus’ love for humanity is also discussed as well as His sacrifice for sins.

Violence: none

Language: none

Sexual Content: More than one devotion deals with sexual temptation and remaining pure in mind and body. At least one discusses the dangers of p*rnography and several encourage waiting for physical intimacy until marriage.

Other: The book also teaches having self-control to resist drugs and alcohol and goes into detail about setting a plan on what to do if offered these things. It also encourages learning what things tempt you and thinking of ways to avoid those temptations.

Recommendation: I think the book is appropriate for the recommended ages of 9-12. Some parents might be concerned that younger boys may not understand or be ready for the parts about sexual temptation, but the author discusses those subjects in such a way that they are age-appropriate. I would recommend father and son doing these devotions together.

Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment

2011-12-05T20:34:00.002-06:00

Reviewer: Kerin
Title: Maximum Ride
Author: James Patterson
Primary Audience/Age Group: Young Adult
Genre: Thriller/Young Adult, Science Fiction
# of Pages: 422
Publisher: Little, Brown
Year of Release: 2005
Part of a Series: Yes, 1 of 8
Rating: 4 View Scale
Recommend: Yes

Description: Max, a 14-year-old girl, is anything but a normal teenager. She's a mother to her friends, tough as nails, and a supreme fighter. And did I mention she has wings? Yes, wings. Max and her friends (Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gasman, and Angel) are all part human, part bird. Created and raised most of their lives by scientists, they have been genetically enhanced with the ability to fly, extra strength and super raptor vision, and other..... powers.

Having been rescued by one of the scientists from the lab years ago, the kids are on their own, living a good life. That is, until their old "school" comes back to haunt them. When Angel is kidnapped by a group of Erasers (another group of genetically altered subjects), Max and her flock journey to find and save Angel before it's too late.

Oh, and did I mention that she also has to save the world along the way?

Life is never dull for Maximum Ride.

Review: A very fun book. The chapters are short and tightly written and a real thrill to read. There's never a dull moment; the action just keeps coming, hit after hit and jaw-dropping surprise after jaw-dropping surprise.

The characters are very enjoyable. They're each so unique and solid on their own, and when they're together, it creates a really great dynamic. They play off of one another very well and are so much fun to read about. Though few words are spoken between them, it's very easy to see the depth of the character's relationship.

The plot is pretty easy to follow, and definitely easy to get sucked into it. And even when one goal or point ends, there's another right there to pick up where it left off, and something else for the character's to pursue.

Patterson's writing is really fun to read. I'm usually pretty good at picking out how a book will end. There's a general formula to most stories and after a while, you start to notice a pattern. You notice who will end up with who, the type of ending it will close with, how they'll concur the bad guy, and which good guy is really a bad guy.

But Maximum Ride is one of the few series that has left me in suspense. Just when I think I have it figured out, Patterson drops another bomb-shell or reveals another mystery that blows my mind and I'm back to wondering again, which, honestly, I love. It's nice not to be able to pick out the pattern for once and be surprised with everything he brings out in his story.

And lastly, the humor was an added bonus. There were plenty of laugh out loud moments included through the book.

I devoured this book in a matter of days and quickly looked for the rest of the series. Personally, one of my favorite books.

Rating: 4 for violence and very minor language.

Positive: There is an emphasis on friendship/family. Max and her friends are a very loyal group. They risk life and limb when the youngest, Angel, is kidnapped, willing to do anything to get her back. Though Angel and Gasman are the only two biological siblings in the group, these friends have bonded and grown together and become a family. Though perhaps they did start as simply friends with their differences being many, these kids love and look after one another as a true family should.

Not so much friends, but more of family to one another.
Max is leader of the flock, but like a mother to most all of the rest of the flock members. She looks after them and tends to them as children - even referring to Angel as "Her baby".

Max is a very brave character and a good example when it comes to taking on responsibility. Though only 14, she acts as leader and mother, taking care of the others and making the tough decisions when they need to be made.

Spiritual Elements: None that I can think of.

Violence: The violence is the main reason I gave this book a 4. The characters are continually having to battle the bad guys at one turn or another. Aside from an explosion or two, the main characters never use actual weapons, but instead use their fighting skills and literally fight hand-to-hand with their opponents. The bad guys, however, do sometimes use guns and other weapons.

The fighting, and their following injuries, can sometimes get pretty descriptive. I wouldn't go as far to say 'gory', but you get a clear picture of the fight that's taking place and the injuries they come away from these fights with.

Language: Small things, such as "Oh my G**" and just plain G**". Words like "freakin" pop up occasionally. But most actual cuss words aren't told. (Example: At one point Max uses - "Holy insert swear word here." to block out actual swearing.

Sexual Content: One kiss.

Other: My only main concern other than the violence is the 'experiments'. Max, her flock, and the Erasers aren't the only ones the scientists have experimented with. However, they are the only ones that have been successful so far. We read very briefly about these other experiments - some of which were successful, some not - and some of the unsuccessful experiments are a tad...creepy. Now not in horror movie kind of way where the experiments gone wrong are grotesque monsters, but in a slightly unnerving way when you hear what they've become.

It's really rather sad because you realize that these experiments are humans who have had this done to them by these lab techs and the torture they've likely had to endure.

My one other concern are the bad guys in this story. They are a tad more frightening than an evil witch or an ugly old troll, mainly because they're realistic. There are, sadly, people out there who don't care who they hurt or what lives they take in their pursuit of power, money, or discovery.

Some parents might also wish to know that Max and her friends are very distrusting of adults, though with good reason. Therefore, they are generally very rebellious against adults even when they appear to be trying to help.

Recommendation: I would recommend this book for ages 13 or maybe 14 and up. It is a very good book and very enjoyable with a good sense of friendship and how to face trials, but with the violence involved, I think it should be read by teens rather than preteens.

Truth or Dare: One Year of Dynamic Devotions for Girls

2011-12-02T22:27:00.002-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: Truth and Dare: One Year of Dynamic Devotions for Girls
Author: Ann-Margret Hovsepian
Primary Audience/age group: ages 9-12
Genre: Devotions, Non-fiction
# of pages: 432
Publisher: David C. Cook
Year of Release: 2011
Part of a series No (But, there is a boy's version: Triple Dog Dare)
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description/Review: The book title and theme are a take on the classic Truth or Dare party game where players are challenged to give a personal truth or take an embarrassing dare. The book, however, uses the concept in a positive way by giving a truth from God’s word then three challenges to encourage girls to apply those truths to their lives each day for a full year. The weekend devotions are filled with quizzes and other fun activities like art projects and puzzles that help girls to take even more steps to put God’s word into action. This fun and unique set of devotions is choked full of God’s truth. They are short; the challenges are easily applicable and can be done individually or as a group. I highly recommend this book to any pre-teen girl wanting to not only be a hearer of God’s word but a doer as well.

Rating: 5

Positive: I cannot say enough about the positive aspects of these devotions. From putting God’s word into action to praying to making spiritual resolutions, each day encourages a new and inspiring way to grow in God’s word. Other topics covered are having a good attitude, changing bad habits, having a pure heart and body, avoiding gossip, choosing friends wisely, avoiding the occult, keeping promises, thinking of others above ourselves, respecting parents, modesty, and handling conflict in a godly manner, all of which are supported by God’s word.

Spiritual Elements: Each devotion encourages the girls to read verses or passages from the Bible that deal with the topic for the day. The devotions talk about the fruits of the Spirit, having an enthusiasm for God’s word, growing in faith through difficult circumstances, finding good role models, faithfully serving, recognizing God’s truths and dispelling lies, giving God the glory, dealing with doubts and confusion in faith and many others. With so many things vying for a teens attention, the book reinforces making Jesus the priority and not putting the focus on others like friends and celebrities. With the right focus, you are much less likely to be led astray into sin. Many of the challenges also dare the girls to memorize Scripture.

Violence: none

Language: none

Sexual Content: none

Other: none

Recommendation: Truth and Dare is an excellent resource for girls age 9-12 that are wanting not only to know what the Bible says but to take action in applying Scripture to their daily lives. I think it would be great if the girls took the initiative to start their own Bible study using this set of devotions as a guide.

Beyond the Mask: The Grassland Trilogy

2011-11-23T16:26:00.002-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: Beyond the Mask: The Grassland Trilogy: Book Three
Author: David Ward
Primary Audience/age group: 13 and up
Genre: Fantasy/Christian Fantasy
# of pages 227
Publisher: Amulet Books
Year of Release: 2008
Part of a series If yes, 3 of 3 (The Grassland Trilogy)
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes but with reservations

Read the reviews of Escape the Mask (Bk 1) and Beneath the Mask (Bk 2)

Description: Pippa, Coriko and their small band of Diggers have finally escaped the clutches of the Spears. With Pippa in the lead, they go in search of a new home, a place where they can live in peace, a place Pippa remembers as a child. Safety seems just in their grasp, but the band soon discovers that Grassland is not the only place where evil lurks. Sometimes, in order to have peace you have to fight for it.

Review: Beyond the Mask continues the Grassland Trilogy with this final exciting installment. The story of Pippa and Coriko carries on with a balance of hope for the future and treachery that cannot be avoided as they meet new friends and rediscover old ones, fight new battles and end others. Christian undertones only hinted at in the first two books are now brought to light as Pippa finally puts a name to the One she has had faith in all along, God. With the addition of two new characters, churchman, the book delves deeper in their faith with many mentions of prayer and encouragement through God. With Pippa and Coriko growing in maturity and faith, this coming-of-age tale is a definite read for teens age 13 and up.

Rating: 3 for violence

Positive: Pippa is as always a positive influence on Coriko. She does not condone killing and encourages Coriko to avoid it if at all possible. The gang finds care and aid from two churchmen who insist that God is on control of the situation. There is always a remnant of hope in the books even for Coriko who is unsure about God. The ways of the Spears are changing from slave labor to sharing the wealth. Loyalty, forgiveness, faith, peace, and God’s timing are all positive aspects as well.

Spiritual Elements: God’s name is mentioned for the first time as Pippa’s beliefs in a Creator are explained. The crew befriends men of the church who help them on their quest and who also share Pippa’s faith. They offer encouragement and support to the young warriors, often praying for them and teaching them the things of God. An opposing army believes in other gods.

Violence: Raiders attack several villages, one in which Coriko and his friends are staying in. Coriko stops the raiders from burning the church with most of the villagers inside by killing two men. Thief kills a third. After this battle, Coriko shares that he is not a soldier, that he was forced into becoming one and despises the skills he has for killing. He hopes he never has to use them but realizes he will have to again.

Under the wishes of Pippa, Coriko tries his best not kill more than he has to, but many lose their lives in the final battle. There are several mentions of blood. Pippa sees the dead bodies in the courtyard after the battle.

Language: none

Sexual Content: Pippa and Coriko share an extended kiss. Their love for each other is beginning to grow now that they have some moments of rest in the new village they are staying in. They are about another year older, around the age of fourteen. Pippa and Coriko talk of getting a place of their own and starting a family once they find peace. They have made the decision to spend their lives together, but their love is still young and innocent. They share a couple more kisses in the book.

Other: There are a few mentions of ale. Coriko tastes some but doesn’t really care for it. Bran and Thief enjoy a glass of ale at a celebration, and Coriko warns them not to drink too much.

Recommendation: The violence, although not overly descriptive, may be too much for more sensitive readers. Coriko, however, does try to avoid killing if at all possible. He doesn’t want to but does so to defend others.

With the romance between Pippa and Coriko written in such a way as to maintain the characters innocence as well as the revelation of Pippa’s faith in God, Coriko’s growing faith, and other positive messages like forgiveness and hope all make this series an excellent read for teens.

Teen Lit Review Needs You!

2011-11-20T11:54:00.001-06:00

Soon Teen Lit Review will be celebrating our fourth year of reviewing books. With our number of book reviews growing, we are in need of an upgrade to our blog design. We need help in raising money to cover the costs of the design, and all we need from you is an extra CLICK.

TLR is partnered with Amazon to get a small percentage of the sales we generate through our site. If you are shopping at Amazon anyway for the holiday season would you mind adding us to your favorites and clicking on one of our links to enter the Amazon website?

Here's how it works:
1. Visit Teen Lit Review
2. Scroll down and click on:

our Top Picks (Favorites) Amazon Widget on the sidebar
one of the book title links in blue within a book review

3. Once you've clicked the link you will be taken to Amazon
4. Type in the product you are looking for in the search engine. You do not have to purchase the books we have recommended on the site.
5. If you purchase any product through Amazon from one of our links, we will get a percentage of the sales.
We appreciate all our readers. Thank you for your support. Merry Christmas from TLR!

Ship Breaker

2011-10-21T09:26:00.000-05:00

By Reviewer NadineTitle: Ship Breaker
Author: Paolo Bacigalupi
Primary Audience/Age Group: Young Adult
Genre: Speculative Fiction (dystopian)
# of Pages: 352
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? Yes (1 of 2 so far)
Rating: 2 View Scale
Recommend? No

Description: Nailer's job is to strip the inside of abandoned ships and oil tankers for what metal, copper, or worthwhile materials can be salvaged before other scavenger groups get it. He's small and lithe but not for long. In the futuristic dystopian America, scavenging is a common job that anyone would give their left lung for (and often do give thanks to the fumes). He and his crew live every day hoping for a "Lucky Strike"--a precious find of oil or materials that will pay their way to a new and
better life....or just a guarantee of food every day (which might as well be a new and better life). When Nailer's "Lucky Strike" finally comes in the form of a beautiful shipwreck , it's not as easy as he hoped to just cash in the chips. Tests of character and morals threaten to deprive him of any profit at all.

Review: I've never nearly drowned in oil and, after reading the first few chapters of Paolo Bacigalupi's Ship Breaker, I decided I'd rather melt like a wicked witch a hundred times instead. My lungs burned, my eyes stung, and I felt exhausted after fighting a pool of oil for freedom alongside the ship scavenger, Nailer.

I enjoyed this novel more than I expected to. Bacigalupi did an excellent job pulling the reader into Nailer's culture and time period without bogging down the story with too many details. I felt Nailer's desire to be free of this ship-breaking life he's trapped in. When he had a chance for an out, I cheered right beside him, urging him on.

The only downside to this novel for a reader might be the excessive swearing. Depending on your background or comfort level, it will affect you differently. For those wishing to steer clear of foul language, I wouldn't recommend this book. It also has some other adult themes such as drug-use, intoxication, and mentions of prostitution.

Though there is a sequel to Ship Breaker being released in 2012 (The Drowned Cities), I thought that Ship Breaker ended well as a single novel. It tied up all loose ends, and I closed the back cover with a content sigh. I enjoyed it. I may read it again, but I can't say it blew my socks off.

Rating: 2 for language

Positive: Nailer is very focused on doing what’s right even if he’s risking his own survival. Even though his father is abusive and a drunkard, Nailer still cares about saving him when a hurricane hits. When Nailer finds a big break with his scavenger friend, his morals stop him from taking what he wants and leaving someone to die. It’s neat to see the morals in his character even though he’s grown up in a horrible family situation, and he’s just hoping for enough food to survive until the next day.

Spiritual Elements: No Christian ones. Nailer's culture focuses a lot on luck and the "Luck God". There are dark spiritual rituals with some of the "religions" mentioned, alluding to things like cutting off body parts and/or human sacrifices. The author doesn't go in-depth, but I think it was interesting insight into what may happen to our culture in the future.

Violence: There are instances of knife killing, half-wolf men, physical abuse, bombs, guns, etc. There are events of murder and also someone getting ground up in ship gears. It gets a teensy graphic.

Language: b*****d, s**t, b***h, d***, SOB

Sexual Content: One kiss and a few mentions of prostitution.

Other: None

Recommendation: It’s hard with this book because I enjoyed getting into the albeit fictional culture, but the swearing is much too excessive for anyone who’s not prepared or able to skim over it. Another reviewer actually counted—203 swear words over the course of 352 pages. That’s a lot. Basically, I read it and enjoyed it when I finished, but I can’t say I’d ever hand it to anyone and say, “Read this!”

Grandma's Attic Series

2011-10-04T14:12:00.001-05:00

Reviewed by: Shawna

Title: Still More Stories from Grandma's Attic (Grandma's Attic Series);
Treasures from Grandma's Attic (Grandma's Attic Series)
Author: Arleta Richardson
Primary Audience/age group: 8-12
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
# of pages 159
Publisher: David C. Cook
Year of Release: 2011
Part of a series Yes, books 3 and 4 of 4 (Grandma’s Attic Series)
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description/Review: The late Arleta Richardson grew up in a hotel in Chicago overlooking Lake Michigan. Underneath the care of her grandmother, Arleta would sit and listen to her share story upon story of when she was a girl in the late 1800’s. Based on her grandmother’s stories, Richardson wrote the Grandma’s Attic series. The latest two books, Still More Stories from Grandma’s Attic and Treasures from Grandma’s Attic continue the refreshed classic series. The stories may be from a different era but are still appealing to adolescent girls today.

In Still More Stories from Grandma’s Attic, Grandma Mabel relives her childhood growing up on a farm in 1880s Michigan by retelling funny yet memorable stories to her granddaughter Arleta. As young girls, Mabel and her best friend Sarah Jane have mishap after mishap from getting into a sticky situation with face cream to believing Mabel’s childhood companion, a dog named Pep, could spell. All the stories have a valuable lesson to teach her granddaughter Arleta. My own six year old daughter enjoyed hearing how the two friends Mabel and Sarah Jane couldn’t help but get into trouble. She especially enjoyed the face cream disaster.

The follow-up book, Treasures from Grandma’s Attic, has Mabel and Sarah Jane around the ages of thirteen but still as mischievous as always. The adventures continue as the girls find themselves pitted against a new classmate as well as forming a plan to take revenge on Mabel’s brother. It seems the two of them concoct more precarious plans together than by themselves.

The series is a great read-aloud set of books that teach not only about the time period our great-grandmothers grew up in but also how they felt and did some of the same things little girls do today. Timely lessons and loads of laughs make this book a great read for any adolescent girl.

Rating: 5 for promotion of good values

Positive: Each chapter is a different short story that teaches a lesson. Some of the lessons learned are about being deceitful, respecting the elderly, procrastinating as well as forgiveness. On more than one occasion, Mabel wrongly accuses another, but by the end of each story Mabel has learned her lesson and made amends when appropriate.

Spiritual Elements: Mabel lives in a Christian household and learns much from the Bible. Mabel’s mother talks about God to her. Some of the lessons are spiritual lessons: be happy where God has placed you and God will never leave or forsake us. Mabel prays when she is afraid and she memorizes Scripture for a contest. Mabel’s family often uses Scripture to encourage right choices.

Violence: none

Language: none

Sexual Content: none

Other: none

Recommendation: These books are something you can enjoy together with your daughter. The stories are very light-hearted and witty, which make them an ideal way to learn timely lessons. Read them together then discuss the choices Mabel and Sarah Jane made. These books are appropriate for the ages 8-11 but younger girls will find them entertaining as well.

The Ale Boy's Feast

2011-09-19T17:07:00.000-05:00

By Reviewer Maria Chester

Title: The Ale Boy's Feast
Author: Jeffrey Overstreet
Primary Audience/age group: Adult, 15+
Genre: Fiction/Fantasy
# Of pages: 383
Publisher: Water Brook Press
Year of Release: 2011
Part of a Series? Yes, 4 of 4 (Auralia Thread)
Rating: 3 View Scale
Recommend? Yes with reservations

Description: Book 4 of the Auralia Thread series
The king is missing.
His people are trapped as the woods turn deadly.
Underground, the boy called Rescue has found an escape.

Hopes are failing across The Expanse. The forests, once beautiful, are now haunted and bloodthirsty. House Abascar's persecuted people risk their lives to journey through those predatory trees. They seek a mythic city - Abascar's last, best hope for refuge - where they might find the source of Auralia's colors.

They journey without their king. During a calamitous attempt to rescue some of his subjects from slavery, Cal-raven vanished.

But his helper, the ale boy, falling through a crack in the earth, has discovered a slender thread of hope in the dark. He will dare to lead a desperate company up the secret river.

Meanwhile, with a dragon's help, the wandering mage Scharr ben Fray is uncovering history's biggest lie - a deception that only a miracle can repair.

Time is running out for all those entangled in The Auralia Thread. But hope and miracles flicker wherever Auralia’s colors are found.

Review: Jeffery Overstreet is one of my favorite authors. He writes with poetry and artistry which ignites the imagination and inspires the soul. A brief glance into this fantastic world he has created introduces us to fantastic mystical creatures, and heroic figures that run through the pages like water down a brook. The first three books in this series are extremely compelling and engaging. I found the stories imaginative and the words as vivid and colorful as the title of the first book (Auralia's Colors) suggests. I would wholeheartedly recommend reading the previous books in this series. They are some of the most delightful books I have ever had the pleasure of reading.

In this final book of the Auralia Thread series, the gloves finally come off and you see the villains as they truly are in all their diabolical glory. Heroes long dead are found to be . . . not so dead are we feared! If you have read the previous books you may have guessed some of the surprises. However, the elements come together in an exciting and unpredictable way. I was never sure what would happen next!

That said, I found The Ale Boy's Feast to be most violent book of the series, though still enjoyable. It was somewhat akin to the violence portrayed in the Lord of the Rings movies. There are many battle scenes filled with blood and carnage. Like the movies, many of the potentially gory moments only lasted a second. Unfortunately some of them didn’t (see below).

I think this book would be a very enjoyable read for older teens. However, I would not recommend it for younger children due to the violent nature of some of the scenes.

Rating: 3 for violence.

Positive: A young boy called Rescue overcomes his weaknesses and saves many prisoners from the Cent Regus Core. Cal-Raven strives to build a new home for his people; a place where they can start again after the decimation of their kingdom. There are strong themes of sacrifice, perseverance, and forgiveness, and redemption throughout the book.

Spiritual Elements: The series is richly allegorical, depicting the rebellion of man against his Maker, the craftiness of the devils, and the redemption that is available to those who are willing, even the most unlikely.

Violence: There is a lot of bloodshed, though told in such a way as to avoid being overly gory. People are killed in battle, blown up, and attacked by "vicorclaws" and “deathweed” (mutated trees) which use razor sharp claws to shred and impale their victims, ect. Two young boys are briefly shown killing a beastman. Seers (evil spirit beings) murder people and animals and enter their bodies. There is a group of people in the book believe that suicide is the only way to truly free the soul (this is portrayed in a negative light). A young boy (who can walk through flames without being harmed) sets himself on fire to protect his friends from cannibals who were about to kill them.

Language: Fantasy language such as "kramm", "ballyworms", and "out of tune piece of butterfly dung".

Sexual Content: Sex/premarital sex are briefly implied. A young couple “gets ahead of themselves” resulting in the girl becoming pregnant. However, the man admits the error of his actions and agrees to marry her.

Other: There is some consumption of alcohol. A group of survivors is shown sharing a glass of wine in a celebratory gesture, and the drinking of alcohol is again shown at a banquet. Addiction to the Seer's "potions" (drugs) is shown in a negative light.

Recommendation: I would recommend this book for teens ages 15 and up. I very much wanted to give this book a rating of four because there are many good themes and no swearing. It was a very interesting and enjoyable read. Unfortunately, because of the violence I have to give it a rating of three.

Shiver

2011-09-02T21:14:00.000-05:00

By Reviewer: Nadine

Title: Shiver

Author: Maggie Steifvater

Primary Audience/Age Group: Ages 13 and up

Genre: Speculative Fiction (fantasy)

# of Pages: 400

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Year of Release: 2009

Part of a Series? Yes (1 of 3) The Wolves of Mercy Falls
Rating: 3 View Scale
Recommend? No

Description: Grace is obsessed with the wolves hiding in her forest even though they tried to kill her as a child. Actually, she's obsessed with the one grey wolf with striking eyes who saved her from being devoured by his own pack. She stares at them from her swing in the backyard; they stare at her through the trees lining the edge of the wood. But these wolves are more than just wolves--enter the love story. Werewolves. Grace’s wolf is also a handsome mysterious-eyed teenage boy in the summer time. She and Sam are forced to fight for survival against the threat of him turning into a wolf permanently. Can she and Sam do it together? Will she have to do it alone?

Review: I house a weakness for books with attractive covers. But I hate when a lovely cover is ruined by black sludgy contents. The first few chapters are brilliantly written (the reason behind my buying the book) and the last chapter is perfectly conclusive. The middle, sadly, is lacking.

This is another normal-person-loves-a-freakish-myth novel. There are only so many ways to write about a human in love with a vampire, werewolf, angel, demon, zombie, plant, or faerie, but I must give Steifvater some credit--Shiver at least has some writing talent in it. Her words come together like the chime of an old clock. Toss in a cheesy plotline and her talent alone can keep it ticking. Unfortunately, there seems to be a new teen-book tornado. Contents? Rebellion, selfishness, and sex. Still keeping it at the "appropriate level" (whatever that means), Steifvater indulges in a bit of character-intimacy. I dislike any sort of sex-mention in a novel because of the message it sends to young readers concerning "love" and "standards" (or lack thereof). Also, I didn't like the main characters that much. Grace's obsession with Sam (her wolf-man) is a bit unfounded, and Sam's infatuation with her is borderline creepy.

Rating: 3 for language and sexual situations

Positive: Grace and Sam work very hard to keep their relationship focused so that they can tackle hardships together. Their unity allows for mutual support and encouragement. The author writes two different points of view seamlessly, making it easy for the reader to understand who’s talking. Her writing is excellent.

Spiritual Elements: None

Violence: There is some mention of blood from wolf-fights or wolf-attacks on humans, but nothing graphic.

Language: D***, h***, smart-a**, c*cky b*****d, b***h

Sexual Content: Sam and Grace share a bed several times once Sam is human and doesn’t have a place to stay. They keep this a secret from Grace’s parents. It inevitably leads to sex. No graphic details are given, it’s more of a “fade-the-scene” type of interaction, but there is frequent mention of little touches, passionate kissing, and other sensual interactions.

Other: None

Recommendation: I don’t recommend this book, despite the pleasant wintery name. The characters are shallow and their romantic interaction along with the swearing was enough to deter me. I didn’t gain any benefit from it, and it felt like several hours wasted.

Enclave

2011-08-12T17:03:00.000-05:00

By Reviewer: Nadine

Title: Enclave
Author: Ann Aguirre
Primary Audience/Age Group: Ages 12-17 (Young Adult)
Genre: Science Fiction/Fantasy (Dystopian)
# of Pages: 272
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Year of Release: 2011
Part of a Series? Yes (final # unknown; book 2 to be released 2012)
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes with Reservations

Description: Main character, Deuce, is part of College Enclave—an underground city of people who eat rats, follow rules to the T, and die at (or before) the age of 25. Since Deuce survived to age 15, she’s given a name and a job—a Huntress. As long as she’s remembered, she’s wanted to be a Huntress, which means finding meat, setting traps, and killing Freaks—a feral race of humans with endless appetites for the dead or the living…raw. When she’s paired with Fade—a boy who came from the outside and frightens everyone else with his strange ways—her ideas of grandeur and honor are dashed thanks to his habits of rule breaking and knack for entering unusual situations.

Fade and Deuce are sent on a death-mission as punishment for a particularly unusual stretching of the enclave’s rules. What they discover on this mission is enough to cause Deuce to question the elders of her enclave, the purpose of her life, and the limited knowledge of her world. She and Fade fight starving, manic Freaks, discover hidden tribes, and ultimately face the mysteries and danger of Topside if they don’t keep their acts together in front of the elders.

Review: I found the book well written, enticing, and finished it in a single day. The futuristic America with underground tribes is fascinating and spellbinding. I enjoyed the interaction between Deuce and Fade. It was realistic and remained appropriate (even when a little love interest started to form). The characters were believable, though there were still a few cookie-cutter bad-guys (with no hearts and only want to show all those under them “who’s boss”). The book really pulls you into

Deuce’s mindset and why she is set on following rules and why honor as a Huntress is so important to her. You understand why she believes what she does, which makes it easier to understand her reactions when her world starts to crumble as Freaks grow more cunning and the naivety of the elders becomes more evident.

A few setbacks in this novel include violence and adult sexual issues. The violence is fairly graphic during fights with Freaks, there are injuries and several instances of bloodshed. The enclave consists of Breeders, Builders, and Hunters. The description of the Breeders certainly brings the human race down to an animal level with “breeding” and having “mates”. There’s no love (or mention of marriage) involved with breeding, it’s solely for the preservation of the dwindling population.

Rating: 3 for violence and mature topics

Positive: Deuce has a desire to know and seek out the truth, not just about her world, but about what’s right. It’s nice to see this genuine pursuit of understanding instead of a mindless acceptance of whatever she is told (though that threat is there). Both Fade and Deuce also cling to a hope of something better—that life isn’t just meant to be short and filled with fighting for their lives. They spend the last half of the book seeking this and never giving up on that hope.

Spiritual Elements: None

Violence: The violence is fairly graphic during fights, entering detail of what and where Deuce stabs, the sounds of fighting, and other details. A character dies with slit wrists, alluding to suicide (though in the end, it was caused by an outside source).

Language: None

Sexual Content: Some kissing. There is excessive mention of “breeding” among humans, but it’s seen as a practical way of managing the population of the enclave. There is some mention of the “sounds” of breeding one night as Deuce tries to sleep. Later in the book, when Deuce is in a different environment where gangs are present, there is constant threat of rape and comments by the characters concerning the topic. No mention is explicit and, for the world that Deuce lives in, it’s just a dangerous factor that she learns to be wary of. But some gang members joke about it and fight over “who gets the girl”.

Other: None

Recommendation: Some parents may be concerned with the violence. Though the book is meant for 13 and up, I think it’s more appropriate for 16 and up due to the violence and mature themes. There are no spiritual elements to these books and the benefit of the read would solely be a sense of adventure and entering the mindset of a different (albeit fictional) culture.

Reviewer Bio: Nadine is a graduate student in Speech Therapy with a passion for writing and reading all things adventure and fantasy. Her favorite atmosphere in which to read and/or write is a snowy day next to the fireplace with a hot chai latte and fuzzy socks. Adventurers-at-heart, Nadine and her husband-to-be are trekking faithfully behind God into the many daring and exciting escapades He's planned for them.

Young and in Love: Challenging the Unnecessary Delay of Marriage

2011-08-02T20:47:00.001-05:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: Young and in Love: Challenging the Unnecessary Delay of Marriage
Author: Ted Cunningham
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult, 18+
Genre: Christian Non-fiction, Marriage
# of pages 222
Publisher: David C Cook
Year of Release: 2011
Part of a series No
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Descritption/Review: In his book Young and in Love: Challenging the Unnecessary Delay of Marriage Pastor Ted Cunningham writes, “While I am an advocate for marrying young, I’m an even bigger advocate for helping you grow up. …And the Young and in Love message screams, ‘Take personal responsibility for your life.’” Yes, this book promotes marrying at a young age, but does not promote marrying in high school or right thereafter when most lack the maturity to marry. I have to admit, I wasn’t so sure if I agreed with Mr. Cunningham’s ideals, but once taking in the entire book, I found myself agreeing with many of his points.

Cunningham explains that as the Baby Boomer generation reached age 17 or 18, they were expected to leave home, get married and work, all usually within a short period of time. While the Boomers parents, raised during the Great Depression and WWII, valued and taught survival to their children, Generation X, the Boomers felt success should be the main importance for their children and put a high price on getting an education and high-paying job before getting married. This cultural shift in values has caused many, young men in particular, to continue their adolescence into their twenties and beyond. Therefore, a good portion of the book is devoted to encouraging young people to grow-up and not prolong adolescence any longer than necessary. In short, he encourages taking responsibility for one’s own actions and thus becoming a responsible adult. Having a higher priority on marriage, may play a role in helping young people do just that.

Is Cunningham’s message for everyone? No. He explains that those who are intentionally single or single and waiting on the right person will not get much benefit from the book. Nor is his book a how-to on dating. It is for the young couple who wants to marry but feels opposition from those around them. He details reasons to marry and not to marry young. He looks more at the maturity level of a young couple and not necessarily their age. He covers many other points including the current statistics and reasons for many divorces today. Even though the book expresses a different way than what is considered a cultural norm nowadays, I would encourage you to read the book in its entirety. You never know, God may change your opinion on marrying young.

Rating: 4 for mature themes dealing with sex in a Christian perspective

Positive: The author discusses the negatives of delaying marriage such as delaying adulthood. Marriage causes you to look at someone else besides yourself and encourages responsibility. Delaying marriage may cause self-centeredness and increase the likelihood of sex outside of marriage. He does not encourage teens to marry in high school or even right after. He goes on to explain that only 2 percent of individuals marry their high school sweetheart. For the few couples that believe they have found the “one” in high school, he recommends proving their readiness to marry through taking on responsibility, having a mature attitude, not “We’re getting married, and no one’s going to stop us” mentality, and proving their ability to provide for a family by getting jobs.

Cunningham also addresses reasons not to marry. Don’t rush into marriage just to save on expenses, escape a bad home life, or just to have sex. He states the importance of not marrying an unbeliever. He encourages young couples to always include parents in decisions to marry. He gives good advice on building your own character and honoring authority, especially if parents want couples to wait. He explains how to respectfully show parents that you are ready to marry.

The author even encourages parents to teach their children responsibility at a young age and challenges young people to have integrity and look for a mate who has it as well. He details specific character qualities that need to be present in a person before even considering marriage.

In the later chapters, he details the importance of marriage in building character. “Marriage is the best tool I know of for making us more like Jesus because marriage builds character through patience and endurance.” He gives advice to young couples on building a lasting marriage and encourages them to work on their character, not their spouses. He encourages them to “resolve to stay” in a marriage through the ups and downs, to find support and accountability through getting involved in a church, and to always have respect for authority and be willing to listen when rebuked.

Spiritual Elements: The author goes through the book of Song of Songs explaining verses one-by-one and how they encourage young love.

Using Song of Songs 2:25, “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom,” throughout the text to encourage young couples to be on the lookout for those people and things that can tear down their desire to marry.

The book is filled with Scripture supporting the authors many points.

Violence: none

Language: none

Sexual Content: Even though the author explains that his book is not another purity talk, one of the reasons he encourages couples to go ahead and marry is to prevent pre-marital sex. He values having a pure marriage. He encourages families to avoid giving the type of purity talk that deems sex as a bad thing but to teach that God created sex as good and to instill in our children that we as believers in Christ should honor marriage.

He encourages young men to guard themselves against pornography and strongly cautions young women against marrying someone that is addicted to it.

Other: none

Recommendation: I think the book is most appropriate for ages 18 and up. I also recommend the book to parents because it does offer some timely advice on preparing young couples for marriage.

TLR Needs More Reviewers

2011-07-28T17:29:00.000-05:00

Avid Readers and Aspiring Writers

Teen Lit Review Needs You!

We are looking for more Christian reviewers. If you share our vision of encouraging children and teens to make wise choices in literature would you consider volunteering to write reviews? We are interested in book reviews from all genres and age ranges from juvenile fiction to young adult, both fiction and non-fiction titles.

If you are 18 years or older, proficient in writing, and a believer in Jesus Christ who wants to serve in our ministry please submit a Reviewer Interview to Shawna at teenlitreview@gmail.com.

Beneath the Mask (The Grassland Trilogy Book 2)

2011-07-01T12:36:00.002-05:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: Beneath the Mask: The Grassland Trilogy: Book Two
Author: David Ward
Primary Audience/age group: 13 and up
Genre: Fantasy/Christian Fantasy
# of pages
Publisher: Amulet Books
Year of Release: 2008
Part of a series If yes, 2 of 3 (The Grassland Trilogy)
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes but with reservations

Escape the Mask (The Grassland Trilogy Book 1) Review

Description: Coriko, Pippa, and a small band of other Diggers have escaped the clutches of the Spears only to be caught again. Forced through the Separation Coriko must become what he’s always hated or live a life without his beloved Pippa. Will Coriko ever be free from a horrible life underneath the rule of the Spears or will he risk everything to do what is right?

Review: The second in the Grassland Trilogy, Beneath the Mask, goes deeper into the elusive lives of the Spears. A horrible truth is revealed about how young men become Spears making Coriko’s life even more despairing. The darkening plot leaves you to wonder just how Coriko will ever be able to thrive. But, with Pippa’s positive outlook and her faith in Someone bigger than herself watching over them in kindness, it shows us how even the most devastating situation still has a thread of hope. Due to some violent scenes in the book, the series is probably not appropriate for a younger audience. See my recommendation below.

Rating: 3 for violence

Positive: Pippa is ever the positive influence, encouraging the others in their small band to do what is right. There’s a continuous message about standing up for what is right even if that means giving up what you have.

Spiritual Elements: Pippa remembers being taught about the Maker, the One she prays to help her not hate those who are causing her such pain. She explains to Coriko how the Maker created everything. God’s name is not mentioned in this book because Pippa only knows Him as the Maker. But, the Maker is the One True God. Pippa also has dreams that come true. Later, Coriko prays a desparate prayer.

Violence: Strays, another band of diggers that turn into savages, attack Coriko’s group with stones and sharpened sticks in order to steal food and abduct other Diggers. Coriko and the others defend themselves with rocks. The attacks end up leaving some of the Diggers dead. Once the Spears seize Coriko’s group, they bind the Digger’s hands then force them overboard a ship causing some to drown.

Spoiler: Coriko becomes a Spear in order to remain with Pippa. He is forced to do horrible acts, raiding villages to steal children and killing a little girl’s father with his dagger. Another young boy obtains a life-threatening wound with a sword and lays dying as a horrified Coriko runs from the scene.

There is at least one scene describing the view of Grassland after the battles between the Spears and Outside. Skeletons are scattered about.

Language: none

Sexual Content: Pippa and Coriko’s relationship is growing into a more mature one. They kiss and say they love each other.

Other: none

Recommendation: The violence in the books may be too much for some readers. Many of the scenes weren’t as descriptive as they could have been but there are a few mentions of bloody wounds.

Spoiler: The scene where Coriko is stealing a child and kills the girl’s father is an emotionally distressing scene for the reader. You feel the heaviness of the loss not only for the girl but for Coriko who feels he has no other choice. With Coriko’s young age, around 13, and the fact he carries that guilt with him makes the event all the more heartbreaking.

But, even with Coriko’s harsh and often times heart-wrenching reality, there’s always a hope for a better tomorrow. With that hope, I can better tolerate the violent scenes.

As well Pippa and Coriko’s relationship is beginning to blossom into young love. Their captors, the Spears, knew this would happen since they kept the children in pairs since they were captured. The author still keeps their budding relationship innocent even though they are maturing. They only kiss once in this book. After they are separated, the only thing that keeps Coriko going is the thought that he will be able to reunite with Pippa. I would recommend the book for ages 13 and up. See my review of Escape the Mask, Book 1 in the Grassland Trilogy also.

The Firefly Letters: A Suffragette's Journey to Cuba

2011-06-26T10:21:00.001-05:00

Reviewed by: Emily

Title: The Firefly Letters: A Suffragette's Journey to Cuba
Author: Margarita Engle
Primary Audience/age group: 10+
Genre: historical fiction, poetry
# Of pages: 151
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
Year of Release: 2010
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: A historical novel written in poetry rather than prose, The Firefly Letters tells the stories of three women who call Cuba their home. Cecilia is a young African girl, sold into slavery by her father. Elena is Cecilia’s mistress, the daughter of a wealthy Cuban. Despite cultural and social barriers, their lives are irrevocably drawn together with the visit of Fredrika, a progressive Swedish noblewoman. Fredrika, in turn becomes attached to the girls, as well as the beautiful land they call their home. However, Fredrika soon finds that underneath its lush scenery, Cuba is also a land of great cruelty and oppression. Aided by Cecilia and Elena, Fredrika endeavors to fight against the injustice of slavery.

Review: Told with simplicity yet infused with passion and meaning, Engle’s novel proves that one does not need many words to present a rich, complicated story. Switching perspectives throughout the book, the personalities and lives of each of the three main characters shine through. A few chapters are told from the perspective of Cecilia’s husband, providing a male voice to balance the otherwise female dominated story. While the spare poetry requires the reader to use some imagination to fill in the blanks, The Firefly Letters is both refreshing and engaging, skillfully aligning discussion of atrocity with lighthearted descriptions of everyday pleasures and creating a group of likable characters. This brief, unique novel provides a glimpse into 19th century life that will be enjoyed by both the young and the old.

Rating: 4, for maturity of the subject matter

Positive: The three female narrators exhibit great courage and compassion. The forward thinking Fredrika champions freedom and equality for all, not allowing worry of public opinion to stand in the way of doing what she believes is right. Although Elena is initially narrow minded and selfish, she is changed by her interaction with Cecilia and Fredrika. As the book progresses, both Fredrika and Elena use their resources to help address the issue of slavery.

Spiritual Elements: None.

Violence: Violence associated with slavery such as whipping occurs, but it is not described with graphic detail.

Language: No inappropriate language.

Sexual Content: Cecilia is with child–the product of a marriage arranged by her master.

Recommendation: Normally, I find novels written entirely in poetry difficult to get interested in. However, this book quickly grabbed my attention and held it. While at some points I did miss the fuller story telling of prose, over all it was simply beautiful. I would recommend this unique little book to readers 10 and up.

What Are You Waiting For? The One Thing No One Ever Tells You About Sex

2011-06-01T15:13:00.009-05:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: What Are You Waiting For?: The One Thing No One Ever Tells You About Sex
Author: Dannah Gresh
Primary Audience/age group: 15+, College Age Women
Genre: Christian Purity, Non-fiction
# of pages 178
Publisher: WaterBrook
Year of Release: 2011
Part of a series No
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: I’m sure as a teen you’ve been told again and again to wait for marriage to have sex. But, sometimes the “why” gets left out of those conversations. Today especially, teens are seeking straightforward answers to their hard questions about sex and waiting. Dannah Gresh has made it her life’s mission to instruct young women in the ways of purity and her newest book, “What Are You Waiting For? The One Thing No One Ever Tells You About Sex” has her going deeper and talking franker about what God’s word says about sex, m*sturbation, same-sex attraction, and more. This book is for those who have waited and need encouragement to remain pure and for those who need sexual healing from their past.

Review: “Purity is not about not having sex. It’s about waiting to have it right,” as Dannah Gresh explains in her book “What Are You Waiting For? The One Thing No One Ever Tells You About Sex” Her candid discourse on the many areas involving sexual relationships is a much needed resource for young women today. Living in a world that promotes sexuality at a young age has created such a confusion about sex among the younger population: “What’s right and what isn’t?” and “What is too far and what isn’t?” The book is saturated in a refreshing truth from God’s word that will answer these questions frankly among many others and also shares new insights into the emotional and physiological sides of sex. If you have a teenage or college-aged daughter, buy this book for her. Neither she nor you will regret it. And if you as a mom are still struggling with choices you made as a teen and are in need of some sexual healing yourself, this book has the answers for you as well. Gresh’s insights and instruction on healing sexual prayer was much needed in my life, and I highly recommend this book.

Rating: 3 for mature themes

Positive: One of the main themes of the book is that waiting to have sex is a good thing but there is hope for healing for those who haven’t waited. Gresh describes the exclusive love of marriage and explains how God gave us this romantic expression as an example to show God’s love for us. We all may know of that one rare couple that continues to show their commitment and passion to each other after many years of marriage. This is the picture God wants to use to reveal the mystery of Christ and his committed love for us.

Gresh also uses Biblical truths to answer questions like “How far is too far?” She takes the next step to explain how those who chose not to wait can have healing from past sexual relationships.

Spiritual Elements: Gresh explains that God created sex. The Hebrew word for sex is yada and means explicitly “to know and be known.” Surprisingly, yada in the Bible is the same word used for committed sex (instead of a “one-night-stand”) as it is for the relationship of how God knows his creation. This may sound strange but obviously our relationship with God is not a sexual one. This is not what God’s word is implying but the fact that sex touches us in a much more meaningful way than just physical gratification. Sex has many aspects, emotional, physiological, spiritual, and physical, and can only be enjoyed to the fullest extent in a committed sexual relationship (marriage). As Gresh states in her book, “Yada is a picture of a relationship with God. It can be experienced only in the context of a male/female relationship.” She goes on to explain this more fully.

Violence: none

Language: Org*sm, m*sturbation

Sexual Content: Gresh discusses sex frankly, not the physical mechanics as much, but the emotional and physiological aspects. She does use some candid words like org*sm and m*turbation. She also discusses same-sex attraction and truths to questions about that from God’s word. She goes into the dangers of pornography and is clear about one thing: sexual activity creates a soul tie between you and the person you have sex with. So, if you have a sexual relationship before you marry and then marry someone else, you will still be “tied” to the other person. This tie can only be broken by God’s intervention, which she explains how to do.

Other: none

Recommendation: Since the book deals with mature topics, I think it’s a good choice for teenage girls age 15 and up. I also recommend that moms read it along side their daughters.

Escape the Mask: The Grassland Trilogy

2011-05-24T14:45:00.005-05:00

Reviewed by: Shawna

Title: Escape the Mask
Author: David Ward
Primary Audience/age group: 13+
Genre: Fantasy/Christian Fantasy
# of pages 224
Publisher: Amulet Books
Year of Release: 2008
Part of a series If yes, 1 of 3 (Grassland Trilogy)
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes but with reservations

Beneath the Mask: The Grassland Trilogy Book 2 Review

Description: The only way of life Coriko and Pippa know are as Diggers, slaves to the Spears, a group of warriors that stole them from their families. The Diggers are brought to Grassland when they are young and are given a cellmate of the opposite gender, their only friend, in with they work and bunk. They are forced to collect shards, glasslike pieces from the ground, each day and are then locked in cold, dank cells in the middle of a cave at night. But, things begin to change when Outsiders arrive and bring war to the Spears. Coriko and Pippa escape with a large band of Diggers and find the remains of a Spear village. Will the secrets they discover there overtake them or set them free?

Review: Escape the Mask, the first book in the Grassland series, gives you a taste of the world of Grassland seen through the eyes of two young characters, Pippa and Coriko as they’ve adapted to survival as slaves to the Spears. Coriko has turned to fighting to protect himself and Pippa while Pippa relies more on her childlike faith to encourage and soften Coriko’s behavior. The book is a quick read and gives you just enough storyline to draw you in and cause you to want to dive into the next books in the series . Upon completion, it had me immediately calling the author to request the other two books. Those who enjoy fantasy books won’t be disappointed.

Rating: 3 for violence and mature themes

Positive: The most positive aspect of the book is Pippa’s character with her forgiving nature and hint of a deeper faith in something bigger than herself. She is a positive influence in Corki’s life. His propensity is towards violence, but with Pippa’s voice, he is able to show mercy.

Spiritual Elements: As stated above, there is only a hint of spirituality shown through Pippa’s character. She prays, but God is not really mentioned at this point.

Violence: The Diggers are slaves forced to endure hard labor and are often cruelly punished for breaking the rules although this is not as descriptive as you would think. New Diggers arriving at Grassland are first put into cages inside the cave and are tested physically by the rushing ocean current let into the mouth of the cave. If they survive, they are paired with a cellmate, and the two become a team against the rest of the Diggers, gathering shards. Because the rules are so strict, Diggers often steal from each other, which in turn leads to more violence and possibly death.

Another Digger steals from Pippa and Corki (Coriko’s nickname) while they are swimming. Corki overtakes him and holds him under the water with intent to drown him until Pippa stops him. She doesn’t believe killing is right no matter what a person does. Corki, however, seems to first turn to violence and killing when others have wronged him.

War breaks out in Grassland, and the Spears and Diggers are attacked by arrows. Many are injured or killed and care to the wounded is fairly descriptive.

Language: none

Sexual Content: none

Other: Each Digger has a cellmate of the opposite sex that they are paired with when they arrive at Grassland. Corki and Pippa, now around 12 or 13 years old, have been cellmates from a young age and are very familiar with each other. They are used to seeing each other naked as they are often stripped by the guards in front of each other and go swimming naked together to not get their work clothes wet. While swimming, Corki harmlessly notices that Pippa is growing, and this change means they will soon be separated from the only companion they have ever known. When a new set of Diggers arrive, Corki notices that one female in particular is older than they are because of the size of her chest. However, there is innocence about the way the nudity is written and the scenes are not overtly descriptive.

Recommendation: My first concern with the book was the growing relationship between Coriko and Pippa. I wasn’t quite sure the direction the author was going to take their relationship in the context of this first book. But, after reading the entire series, I did see the reason and sincerity in the author using nudity (in the first book only) to show the innocence of the characters.

Some parents may be concerned with the violence. But, again, taking the series as a whole, the violence shows how desperate Corki’s and the other Diggers’ situation is: stolen from their families, forced into slavery with only their cellmate as a companion, jolted into the middle of a war they do not understand, and all as children without positive adult guidance. The latter books take a more spiritual direction, and you will see positive changes, especially in Corki, in those books. I recommend the series for ages 13 and up. I will be reviewing the other two books in the series as well and will discuss more in detail Corki and Pippa’s relationship in those.

So Not Happening (The Charmed Life)

2011-04-26T13:48:00.002-05:00

Reviewed by: Shawna

Title: So Not Happening
Author: Jenny B. Jones
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult, 14+
Genre: Contemporary Christian, Christian Chick Lit
# of pages 336
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Year of Release: 2009
Part of a series Yes, 1 of 3 (The Charmed Life)
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Bella Kirkwood lives the life of privilege with her plastic surgeon dad, a swanky New York apartment and a posh high school where being popular is her priority. But when her dad leaves her mom for a younger woman, things take a turn for the worst. Her mom remarries and moves them to the tiny mid-western town of Truman, Oklahoma where Bella is forced to trade her only-child uptown lifestyle in for a country farmhouse and two weird step-brothers. Settling in to her new life proves harder by the minute. Her new classmates soon discover she’s taken her culture shock out on her high profile blog by degrading most everyone at the school. She is then assigned to the school newspaper to pay her penitence but her reporter’s intuition soon has her realizing there’s something to hide at Truman High.

Review: Bella Kirkwood is completely shallow and is clueless about her shallowness. Her beginning attitude tends to annoy not only the other characters in the book but even you the reader. You can’t help but root for her to “get over herself” and soon. But, that makes the story all the more engaging and fun. The story begins light-hearted and surprisingly takes a more serious twist towards the end making it more than just another typical boy meets girl chick lit novel. Even though it’s a Christian book, the religious undertones are subtle making it a good read for even those who don’t care for Christian fiction. Teen girls ages 14 and up will find this a fun and fast read, and their Moms will probably want to borrow it, too.

Rating: 3 for romantic situations and mild violence

Positive: Bella begins as a shallow, judgmental know-it-all who learns a few good lessons on her trek into her new lifestyle. Even though the move from New York to Oklahoma seems a bit extreme, the change in scenery was what Bella needed to get a better grasp on her selfish attitude.

Spiritual Elements: Bella prays often but generally for selfish reasons at first. She begins going to FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) at school where she befriends two other Christian teens. She and her new family attend church. The Youth Pastor speaks on teens having a purpose through Christ. Bella judges Luke, the editor of the high school newspaper, prematurely. She later finds him to be a Christian who encourages her to pray about her assignments.

Violence: The Tiger football team is derailed by several accidents to the players including a suicide.

Spoiler: The football players participate in several dangerous hazing acts including dodging an oncoming train and drag racing. Bella becomes a target when she discovers what’s really going on with the team. She is held hostage at gunpoint.

Language: none

Sexual Content: Bella and her New York boyfriend kiss. Later, she “makes out” with her editor Luke as a rouse to keep from getting caught spying on the football team. Bella attends a party where others are making out.

Other: There’s one joke about a stripper. Bella and a couple of friends attend a non-chaperoned party with alcohol present. They do not drink out of conviction. Later, one friend is seen drinking, in order to loosen up. This is not his usual character. No drunkenness is mentioned as the point of the parties was not to get drunk.

Bella takes her role as investigator a little too seriously when she flirtatiously tries to pull secrets out of one of the football players. She even ends up snooping in his bedroom while he is in the shower. He surprises her by coming out in a towel. His older brother, one of the football coaches, comes in at that point and the scene is redirected to Bella explaining why she was in the bedroom in the first place. Luke, her editor, finds out about this and harshly warns her not to do it again.

Recommendation: Some parents might have concerns with the couple of drinking scenes, which were mild and did not condone underage drinking, and the one romantic scene when Bella’s editor, Luke, kisses her as a rouse. The scene is mildly passionate, and nothing else happens between them. The scene with Bella and the football player in a towel was tame as well. All in all, I think both moms and daughters will enjoy this chick lit novel. It’s also one you can share with friends who don’t normally read Christian fiction. If you enjoy Christian Chick Lit, you will probably like the Hollywood Nobody series by Lisa Samson as well.

City of Tranquil Light

2011-04-14T13:25:00.001-05:00

By Reviewer: Dianne

Title: City of Tranquil Light
Author: Bo Caldwell
Primary Audience/age group: Adult
Genre: Historical Fiction
# Of pages: 287
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? No
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes!

Description: (From the book jacket) Will Kiehn is an “ordinary man,” seemingly destined for a life as a humble farmer in the Midwest, when having felt a call from God, he moves to the vast North China Plain in 1906. There he is surprised by love and weds a strong and determined fellow missionary, Katherine, who is also a dedicated nurse.

Early in their marriage Will and Katherine find themselves witnesses to the crumbling of a more than two-thousand year old dynasty, which plunges the country into years of civil war. As they work to improve the lives of the people of Kuang P’ing Ch’eng – City of Tranquil Light, a place they come to love – they face hardships they could not have imagined: a personal loss that shakes them both to the core, the constant threat of bandits, the physical dangers and tragedies of warlord China. But while they are continually tested both spiritually and physically, they are also rewarded in ways that leave them forever changed.

Told through Will and Katherine’s alternating viewpoints – and inspired by the lives of the author’s maternal grandparents – City of Tranquil Light is a tender and elegiac portrait of a young marriage set against the backdrop of a beautiful but torn nation. A deeply spiritual book, it shows how those who work to teach others often have the most to learn and is further evidence that Bo Caldwell writes “vividly and with great historical perspective”.

Review: Will and Katherine Kiehn have dedicated their lives to serving the people of China. Although they endure poverty and danger, they clearly feel that they are rich beyond words and blessed with God’s protection. I was encouraged by Bo Caldwell’s masterful writing that translates their faith into something palpable that goes beyond the words on a page. I was challenged to re-evaluate my own life in terms of faith and obedience to the Lord, and was strengthened by this story of a couple who lived their lives to the glory of God.

The story gives us a detailed picture of the conditions and culture of early twentieth century China, making it come alive. Caldwell’s writing revealed the emotions that the Kiehns experienced in such a way to stir an empathetic response. Especially intriguing is the fact that Willand Katherine’s characters are based on an actual missionary coupleand their experiences in China.

Rating: 4 for violence as described below.

Positive: There are so many positive elements in this book that it is hard to know where to start. Will and Katherine’s relationship with the Lord is deep and their dependence on Him is very evident throughout the book. Their strong spiritual life and faith sustain them through difficult (and sometimes impossible) circumstances, even during times of despair and depression. God demonstrates His power in protecting them time and again, which provides encouragement to trust Him in all situations.

Will and Katherine share a love and commitment to each other that stands the test of time and provides a strong basis for their marriage. They are also committed to the Chinese people whom they serve, and show an enduring affection and generosity toward them, sharing food, clothing, shelter and medical care whenever there was a need.

Spiritual Elements: This is a deeply spiritual book, describing the God’s call on a young missionary couple. It describes their conversion experiences and their passion to minister to the people of China. God’s abiding presence and direction in their lives makes this an inspirational and uplifting book.

Violence: Will inadvertently gets caught up in a crowd of villagers who are on their way to watch an execution and can’t escape because of the press of people. He witnesses three prisoners beheaded and is sickened to the point of being physically ill for several weeks afterward. There is very little description of the scene. Roving hordes of Chinese bandits showed little regard for human life and thought nothing of robbing and torturing their unfortunate victims. There is some description of the violence that might make some readers squeamish.

Language: None

Sexual Content: None

Other: A young wife, suffering from depression, takes an overdose of opium trying to end her life. Quick action on the part of Katherine and Will saved her life and though she fought them, she later was thankful to them and was converted to Christ. Katherine treats some of her dying patients with opium to dull their pain when there is no hope for their recovery. She makes it clear that she does not approve of opium use.

Recommendation: Although the targeted audience is adult, it wouldalso be appropriate for older teens. Younger teens might also enjoy it, keeping in mind the violent scenes. Most are not extremely graphic. I heartily recommend this book for ages 15+.

Groundwire Spiritual Coaching Opportunity

2011-04-08T15:48:00.000-05:00

Are you compassionate and caring?
Are you a good listener?
Do you want to share the message of hope with others?

Groundwire NEEDS YOU!

Teens today can be overwhelmed searching for meaning amidst depressing hopelessness, negative self-image, and the pressure to be perfect. Groundwire, a current and innovative outreach, has become a ministry where teens find comfort, guidance, and answers delivered through multi-media communication. Groundwire leverages media and technology to meet teens exactly where they are — viewing, listening, texting, or chatting — and to invite them to voice their questions and struggles so they can find answers in the message of the Gospel.

The ministry builds its impact through broadcasting that strategically places television and radio spots on secular stations. Teens listening to popular radio broadcasts or viewing favorite shows on networks like MTV, VH1, Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim programming, and Comedy Central are interrupted by direct spots. These spots catch their attention, resonating with where they are today. Teens responding to the broadcast messages are invited to visit Groundwire’s website where they can chat with a live spiritual coach available day and night, as well as find a collection of resources such as podcasts by Groundwire’s founder and executive director, Sean Dunn, and daily devotionals.

To meet the needs of hurting teenagers across the country, Groundwire is looking for additional online coaches. Are you interested?

FAQ’s regarding volunteer spiritual coaches:

What is Groundwire?
Groundwire is an international ministry aimed at broadcasting hope to students all over the world by leveraging the most effective media formats. Their radio spots are heard on both mainstream and Christian stations and their TV commercials are aired on MTV, VH1 and the Cartoon Network among others. Each spot points their audience to the Groundwire website where spiritual coaches are available to answer questions, encourage with biblical hope and pray for chatters.

What is the Coaching Line?
http://www.grounwire.net/ does not simply offer content, but conversation. The coaching line is an instant message platform that connects chatters with trained coaches in order to provide one-to-one real time conversation. Volunteers all over the world offer their time and talents in order to meet the needs of those searching.

Who is capable of being a spiritual coach?
Spiritual coaches are sold-out Believers who are committed to the Great Commission and love people. They realize that although they are not perfect, God can and desires to speak through them and they realize that technology offers amazing opportunities to minister to people all over the world. Coaches need to be over eighteen and willing to submit to a background check and go through the necessary training.

What are some of the needed qualities of a coach?
Compassionate, teachable, good listener, sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading, patient, resilient and authentic.

What type of commitment are you looking for?
The typical coach offers two to four hours weekly on line, however some offer up to ten. Coaches set their own schedule on a monthly basis and coordinate with team leaders to offer the line sufficient coverage.

Can I coach from home?
Once a coach has been trained and given their log in information they can offer support from any location with internet connectivity.

Who would I be talking to?
Although Groundwire media buys are aimed at youth and young adults, and the majority of chats are in that age range, chatters have ranged from eleven to sixty-seven years of age and from over one hundred countries. The issues are very diverse ranging from the extremely depressed and suicidal person to the fifteen year old who is struggling with relationships.

What does the training look like?
Training begins when an application is completed and returned to the Director of Coaching. From that point the majority of training is done online and consists of learning how to deal with the different types of conversations that might take place. There are a series of written responses that take place in email format and then an online mock chat as well.

What type of oversight is offered?
In order to protect the integrity of the Groundwire mission and message, layers of organization and accountability are built into our procedures. Coaches are encouraged and offered additional training on an ongoing basis. Each chat is read to protect volunteers from accusations of inappropriate behavior as well as to ensure a consistent message is being presented. Each coach is assigned a team lead that will act as a mentor in an ongoing manner.

How will this benefit me as a person?
Seeing God speak through you to comfort someone who is struggling builds your confidence. On top of that the skills and discernment you will discover as you serve the Lord in this type of face to face ministry translate into your everyday life and the other areas where you serve.

For more information on how to become a Groundwire Spiritual Coach download an application here: www.groundwire.net/coaching.

Hoggee

2011-03-14T14:56:00.000-05:00

Reviewed by Sarah
Title: Hoggee
Author: Anna Myers
Primary Audience/age group: Ages 9-12
Genre: Coming of Age, Historical Fiction
# Of pages: 180
Publisher: Walker & Company
Year of Release: 2004
Part of a Series? No
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: (from book jacket) Howard Gardner is starving to death. All spring and summer of 1837, Howard and his older, more charming brother Jack worked as hoggees, driving the mules that pulled boats along the Erie Canal. In a misguided attempt to outshine his brother, Howard chooses to stay behind in Birchport for the winter to save his traveling money and send it home to his family. After his winter job falls through, Howard fears that he might not survive the winter. As desperate as Howard is, he is haunted by the sadness he sees in the eyes of Sarah, the granddaughter of the man who keeps the mules. Even though she's older than her two sisters, she never speaks, and she seems completely disconnected from the world. Sarah's family won't discuss her problem with outsiders, but Howard longs to help her in any way he can, and his quest to do so eventually reveals to him how he truly compares to his brother.

Review: This book not only provides an unusual take on the Erie Canal – from the view of the mule driver – but tells the story of a young boy who matures into a man, learning to appreciate his own strengths and stand up for his own passions.

Rating: 5

Positive: In Howard’s words, Jack is “strong and quick. He always does what’s right and doesn’t make blunders.” Jack is very competitive – and always wins, so that Howard always feels inferior in comparison. However, what Howard can’t see is that he has great heart – as shown by his sympathy for Sarah’s loneliness and dedication to teaching her sign language. Where Jack is overly competitive and arrogant, Howard wins friends through his quieter, caring nature. By the end of the book Howard ends his mental comparison to his brother, and is content with who he is. Although the family that owns the barn Howard sleeps in ignores him at first, they are kindly and invite him in for Christmas dinner, and take care of him when he needs help.

Howard finds a purse of money on the ground after Mac beats him up, and instead of simply keeping it out of revenge tries to return it to Mac’s employer, though she insists he keep it.

Spiritual Elements: When something bad happens (no details to avoid spoiler), prayer is mentioned, but it doesn’t play a large part in the book.

Violence: Howard’s brother defends him when he accuses a mean-spirited hoggee, Mac, of whipping one of the mules. Mac later beats Howard up out of spite. A bridge collapses.

Language: One use of the word “bloody”

Sexual Content: None.

Other: None.

Recommendation: Howard’s caring character and conquering of his unhealthy comparison to his older brother makes Hoggee an enjoyable read. This book would also be excellent for homeschoolers if you’re studying the Erie Canal or American Sign Language!

Howl's Moving Castle

2011-03-14T13:52:00.000-05:00

Reviewed by Sarah
Title: Howl’s Moving Castle
Author: Diana Wynne Jones
Primary Audience/age group: Ages 9-12
Genre: Fantasy
# Of pages: 329
Publisher: Harper Trophy
Year of Release: 2001 (first published in 1986)
Part of a Series? There are 2 sequels, but this book can easily be read alone.
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: (from book jacket) Sophie lived in the town of Market Chipping, which was in Ingary, a land in which anything could happen, and often did – especially when the Witch of the Waste got her dander up. Which was often.

As her younger sisters set out to seek their fortunes, Sophie stayed in her father’s hat shop. Which proved most unadventurous, until the Witch of the Waste came in to buy a bonnet, but was not pleased. Which is why she turned Sophie into an old lady. Which was spiteful witchery.

Now Sophie must seek her own fortune. Which means striking a bargain with the lecherous Wizard Howl. Which means entering his ever-moving castle, taming a blue fire-demon, and meeting the Witch of the Waste head-on. Which was more than Sophie bargained for…

Review: Once started, this book is hard to put down! In Sophie, Howl, Calcifer, and all the other characters in this book, Jones has created a unique, engaging book middle-graders up to adults will enjoy. I have read this book several times, and each time I notice new things/sentences that make me laugh. This would also be a great book to read aloud with the whole family.

There is also a movie of this book which many people may have seen – see my note about the comparison between the book and movie at the end of this review.

Rating: 5

Positive: This book can serve as an example of looking beyond someone’s exterior. From the outside, Sophie and Howl… in fact most of the characters in this book… are not who they appear to be from first glance. There are depths to their character that would be missed if they were simply taken at face value.

Howl is a multi-faceted character and certainly not your ordinary, cliché charmer – a fact you could either love or dislike! Within his character though, there is a deep care for his family and a protectiveness for those under his charge.

Spiritual Elements: The force that moves Howl’s castle - and whose relationship to Howl plays a large part in the “puzzles” Sophie must figure out - is a “fire-demon” named Calcifer. I’m not sure why the author used the word “demon”, but this character is not a demon as we understand the word from the Bible. I didn’t find the name concerning because Calcifer was not a demon – there was no connection whatsoever to Satan or spiritual, demonic powers – in fact, he had quite another origin. (I’m trying hard to refrain from plot spoilers!)

Some parents may set down this book if they simply read the book’s back cover and notice the word “demon”, but I don’t believe the word is concerning – for the reasons stated above.

Violence: Howl battles another wizard, but there’s no gore, mostly just thrown fireballs. Someone’s beat with a stick. That’s about it.

Language: One “d**nation”, also “h***’s teeth”

Sexual Content: None

Other: There is magic in this book, but that’s pretty self-evident from the cover, etc. I didn’t find it disturbing as it’s a light-hearted magic – even the “bad guys” are not foul or too disturbing.

Howl has a skull sitting in his workshop. At one point Howl moves the castle and in order to do that chalks weird symbols all over the room. There’s a living scarecrow in the story, some younger children may find that image disturbing. Howl comes home drunk once.

Recommendation: This book is clean and enjoyable. Anyone from junior high students, to older teenagers, to adults, will enjoy Diana Wynne Jones’ quirky writing! You will fall in love with Sophie, Calcifer, Michael, even (okay, especially) the eccentric Wizard Howl! Make sure to check out the sequels.

As I mentioned above, there is also a movie “Howl’s Moving Castle”, made by Hayao Miyazaki (a sort of Japanese Walt Disney). Some people have only seen the movie, and never read the book. I have read/seen both the book and the movie and thoroughly enjoyed them both, and I encourage those who have only experienced one to read/see the other, as both mediums approach the story in different ways. My only comment for the movie is that those who are not used to Japanese movies may find it a bit odd – their techniques are different from our animated movies, a reflection of how their culture is different from ours. Not bad, just different.

Through Thick and Thin

2011-03-07T16:54:00.000-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna

Title: Through Thick and Thin

Author: Sandra Byrd

Primary Audience/age group: 10-12

Genre: Contemporary Christian
# of pages 271
Publisher: Tyndale
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a series Yes, 2 of 4 (London Confidential Series)
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Now that Savvy has landed a permanent gig on the newspaper staff as the anonymous advice columnist at her prestigious British high school, she is finally getting some recognition for her talent…Oh wait – anonymous -- meaning no one knows she’s the pen behind the ever-growing popular column. Since she really wants the credit she has a few ideas to gain a real byline, but will she abandon her Christian values in order to be recognized?

Review: Sandra Byrd’s second in the London Confidential series is just as fun-loving and witty as the first with a deeper glimpse into some of the secondary characters from the first novel like Penny, snobby newspaper staffer who rivals Savvy. Savvy continues with her advice column but gets so caught up in making a name for herself on the paper that she tries to be someone she’s not. She has to make a few hard choices, but in the end allows God to help her do the right thing. The book is a quick, fun read that will capture the attention of younger teens and help them learn a few valuable lessons.

Rating: 5 for good Christian values

Positive: Savvy learns some hard lessons about judging others based on outward appearance and about trying to be someone she’s not.

Spiritual Elements: Savvy uses her column to offer advice based from the Bible but isn’t really allowed to quote from Scripture in the paper although the Scripture references are given within the book. Savvy’s pastor talks about spiritual gifts, and she thinks hers is helping others. She feels the Holy Spirit speaking to her and encouraging her to do the right thing.

Violence: none

Language: none

Sexual Content: a quick kiss between two newspaper staff members

Other: Savvy mentions having to wear beer goggles in a class to show teens how dangerous drunkenness is. Savvy waits to confess a lie so that she wouldn’t be grounded from an upcoming event.

Recommendation: Savvy is a positive role-model who learns and grows through her mistakes. I think many teens will find the series a great read. I recommend it for any pre-teen and teen ages 10 and up.

Matched

2011-02-23T14:56:00.000-06:00

By Reviewer: Dianne
Title: Matched
Author: Ally Condie
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult, 13+
Genre: Science Fiction
# Of pages: 366
Publisher: Dutton Books
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? Yes, 1 of 3 (Only one has been published so far)
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Cassia lives in a perfect society…the government makes all the choices and always chooses what is best for the individual. It determines your job, the clothes you wear, how long you live, what you eat and the one you marry…your perfect match. When Cassia turns 17, she is thrilled to be matched with Xander, her best friend since childhood. She couldn’t be happier, as most girls are matched with someone they don’t know. Then she is shocked to see another face appear briefly on her matching screen…a boy she also knows, but not well. Which boy is her true match? As Cassia seeks to learn more about Ky, she finds herself falling in love with him, even though she has been told that Xander is her match...that the image she saw of Ky was a “mistake”. She struggles with rebellion against the authorities and wonders why they must be the ones to make all the choices. Her actions lead her to increasingly question the officials, and she risks having the Society take action against her and issue an Infraction and possibly classify her as an Aberration, which would severely limit what she would be allowed to do. She questions whether it is worth the danger…she knows she would be happy with Xander even if she doesn’t follow her heart.

Review: This book will pull you in from the beginning, and hold you there if you are into teen romances. That was one of the major themes...along with living in a controlling society where everything is managed so your life will be…”perfect”. (Reminiscent of The Giver.) I sometimes questioned Cassia’s reactions to situations that seemed at odds with her previous propensity for following the rules…but perhaps that is just part of the process of growing up, which for her seems to come at a later age than for most teens. (How many girls would be elated to be told that they would marry their best childhood friend?) Cassia is aware of the consequences of her decisions and considers the possible outcomes before making a choice, but often places her personal desires above concern for her family. Her character was well developed, but I would have liked to learn more about Xander. The ending left questions and lots of room for the sequel.

Rating: 4 for disregard for authority (Considering the subject matter, a lack of disregard for authority would totally eradicate the story. I thought it was totally appropriate.)

Positive: Cassia has a loving relationship with her grandfather, and seeks out his wisdom. His quest for individuality has been inherited by Cassia, and he has awakened this propensity in her. He and Ky both encourage her creativity. Her desire for excellence in all she does is noticeable throughout.

Spiritual Elements: None
Violence: None

Language: None

Sexual Content: Mild kissing

Other: All citizens are given three tablets that they are to keep with them at all times…a blue one, which will provide two weeks worth of nutrition should circumstances require it, a green one which will immediately have a calming effect on the taker, (not to be taken more than once a week), and a red one (rumored to be a death tablet…)

Recommendation: I found the oppressive society vaguely disturbing, yet worth discussing. The choices made by Cassia would also be worthy of discussion, since many of them had the possibility of unpleasant consequences for her family. I would recommend this book for age 13 and up.

Miss Spitfire: Reaching Helen Keller

2011-02-23T12:42:00.001-06:00

Reviewed by: Emily
Author: Sarah Miller
Title: Miss Spitfire: Reaching Helen Keller
Primary Audience/age group: 10+
Genre: historical fiction
# Of pages: 208
Publisher: Antheneum Books for Young Readers
Year of Release: 2007
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Young, fiery Annie Sullivan is hired to work a miracle. Employed to teach Helen Keller, a deaf and blind child, she is faced with the challenge of reaching a mind almost completely shut off from the outside world. Stubborn and outspoken, Annie perseveres through Helen’s violent temper tantrums and frustratingly slow progress, clinging to her hope that Helen will one day learn to communicate. The process is healing for Annie as well as Helen, allowing her to come to grips with her troubled past and gain a sense of purpose and belonging.

Review: Told from the perspective of Annie Sullivan, the novel brings Helen Keller’s well-known story to life. The characters’ raw emotion is exposed as Annie describes her struggles to reach Helen and the young girl’s frustration and anguish as she tries to connect with a world she can neither hear nor see. Annie also shares her own difficult childhood via various flashbacks. Given such insight into Annie’s past, it is easy to see why she feels such a connection with Helen and so earnestly desires to see her succeed. Like Helen, Annie experienced blindness and felt isolated and misunderstood. Miller’s skillfully crafted tale of love and perseverance through hardship encourages and motivates, instilling a new appreciation for the precious gifts of sight, hearing, and ultimately communication.

Rating: 4, for violence, brief reference to prostitutes, and alcohol use.

Positive: Annie displays admirable perseverance, never giving up on Helen. She throws all her strength and intellect into reaching the girl, unselfishly sacrificing her own comfort and safety.

Helen’s parents love her unconditionally, despite her disabilities and violent outbursts. They ignore suggestions to send her to an insane asylum. So great is their love for Helen, they allow Annie to do what is best for Helen, although it is sometimes difficult for them.

Spiritual Elements: Annie is Catholic, but faith does not play a significant role in the book.

Violence: Helen is initially a violent child, due to her inability to communicate and her spoiled nature. While never injuring the child, Annie often uses bodily force to restrain Helen or encourage her obedience. Helen fights back, subjecting Annie to numerous minor injuries. Annie also describes encounters with her physically abusive father, mentioning that he punched her. The scenes are not graphic.

Language: Annie uses mildly harsh language. She calls Helen a devil and uses expressions such as “Lord above!” giving the impression that she is taking the Lord’s name in vain as opposed to actually crying out to Him.

Sexual Content: It is mentioned that prostitutes inhabit the poor house Annie lives in for part of her youth. Additionally, Annie says one of her father’s drunken friends laid his hand on hers a little too long, hinting at but not stating the sexual nature of his touch.

Other: Annie’s father is a drunkard and she relates some of his actions while under the influence of alcohol. In one instance, he has some drunken friends over to gamble. Annie does not glorify drinking, instead highlighting its negative effects on her life.

Recommendation: I heartily recommend this book. The only note I have is as the book progresses one becomes anxious to reach the resolution. However, the reader is only feeling the frustration and impatience Annie herself felt, so this is not a great concern.

Home Another Way

2011-02-21T08:26:00.002-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna

Title: Home Another Way
Author: Christa Parrish
Primary Audience/age group: Adult, 15+
Genre: Contemporary Christian
# of pages 350
Publisher: Bethany House
Year of Release: 2008
Part of a series No
Rating: 2 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Sarah Graham has been on her own for awhile now, living in the fast lane. She isn’t really proud of her choices, but who would blame her after her father murdered her mother and left Sarah in the hands of her godly yet judgmental grandmother. Now, her father’s death has caused her to travel to the tiny mountain town of Jonah to collect her inheritance. The only stipulation to receive the money she so desperately needs is for her to remain in the secluded town for 6 months. She begrudgingly complies but as her past collides with her present she realizes her plans for the future certainly won’t turn out as she expected.

Review: Home Another Way is about the transformation of Sarah Graham, an angry, rebellious young woman. The author goes deep into Sarah’s mindset, explaining why she makes the detrimental choices she does. You begin to understand and take on Sarah’s plight, feeling her despair and cheering for her in triumph. As the truth begins to unravel her way of life, several of the townspeople who knew her father as a kind-hearted and giving man pull together to help her see herself as God sees her, a misguided young woman in need of a Savior. The tears of joy and heartache that will ultimately ensue on your journey through this book make it all the more enjoyable.

Rating: 2 for mature sexual situations

Positive: God meets you where you are as He does Sarah in the book. She was angry at her life, at God, and wanted nothing to do with the godly people that once knew her father. She had to hit bottom to look up and see the truth and hope that can only come through grace.

Spiritual Elements: Jack, the young reverend of the local church, and his family (his mom and sister) befriend Sarah. Each is concerned for Sarah’s spiritual well-being and takes strides to share their faith with her. Sarah grew up with a overbearing grandmother who used her Christian beliefs to condemn Sarah, but the Christians she meets in Jonah share their faith by loving and forgiving her. They befriend where she is and wait for God to bring Sarah to Himself.

Violence: The murder of Sarah’s mother is revealed but was not described in a brutal way. Beth, Jack’s sister, was in a church fire as a young teen and was severely disfigured.

Language: none

Sexual Content: Sarah admits that her “drug of choice” is men. When she is depressed she peruses bars to find a man to take her home. She does this once in the beginning of the story, but no details are given, other than her sneaking out of his apartment in the morning.

Jack and Sarah like each other, and she tries to use her femininity to seduce him. Jack doesn’t let it go beyond a kiss. Even though he is attracted to her, he knows if they go beyond friendship then Sarah will put her focus on him and not God.

SPOLIER: While Jack was away at seminary, he becomes involved with a young woman who becomes pregnant. He doesn’t try to stop her from having an abortion because he wants to hide his sin. He is very repentant.

Other: none

Recommendation: Sarah’s way of life is not wise. She is not a Christian, therefore, she does not make godly choices. But, the story is about her transformation and her realization that there is a God who loves her and will forgive her.

All the sexual/romantic type scenes like her going home with a man she doesn’t know and her moments with Jack are done tastefully. The book does not condone premarital sex and goes a step further to show the consequences of making those type choices outside of marriage. I would recommend this book to ages 15+.

Journey to Topaz

2011-02-21T08:07:00.001-06:00

Reviewed by: Emily
Title: Journey to Topaz
Author: Yoshiko Uchida
Primary Audience/age group: 10+
Genre: historical fiction
# Of pages: 149
Publisher: Heyday Books
Year of Release: 1971
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Eleven year old Yuki’s world is turned upside down when she and her family are sent to an internment camp with countless other Japanese Americans during WWII. Yuki is forced to adjust to the cramped living conditions, unappealing food, and harsh weather of the desert surrounding the camp. Resilient and spirited, she quickly begins to make a new home for herself, finding friendship and laughter in the bleak prison camp. Through her trials, Yuki gains maturity, learning valuable lessons about loyalty, injustice, and her own ability to persevere through difficulties.

Review: Yuki’s story is clearly and engagingly told, providing valuable insight into an important period of American history. Written from the perspective of eleven year-old Yuki, the book allows younger readers the opportunity to gain greater understanding of Japanese internment camps. The author’s vivid descriptions immerse the reader into the world of the prison camps, both the physical scenery and the emotion. It is easy to become interested in the well-developed characters, whose diversity enables the discussion of a variety of important topics including forgiveness, family, discrimination, and loyalty to a country that treats one like an enemy.

Rating: 4, for brief violence and the maturity of the subject matter.

Positive: Yuki and her family show incredible perseverance and resilience given their circumstances. Both Yuki’s family and friends work together, unselfishly sharing resources and providing each other with emotional support through their difficult stay in the camp. Hospitality is especially important to Yuki’s mother, who goes out of her way to reach out to those around her. Despite what they have suffered at the hands of the American government, Yuki and her family remain loyal citizens.

Spiritual Elements: Yuki attends church with her family before she is sent to the internment camp. However, she does not express much interest in God or religion. Her father attends church out of a sense of duty, while her more devoted mother reads her Bible everyday. In general, the family looks to themselves and each other rather than God for comfort and strength.

Violence: Violence is kept to a minimum. In the camps, a man gets shot. Thugs throw a stink bomb into Yuki’s house. A dust storm hits the camp. Yuki mentions fighting with her elder brother.

Language: No inappropriate language.

Sexual Content: None.

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to upper elementary school children and above. However, since it is written at a level appropriate for younger children, it may not be as engaging for older readers

Before I Fall

2011-02-16T16:03:00.001-06:00

By Reviewer Leeann Cronk
Title: Before I Fall
Author: Lauren Oliver
Primary Audience/age group: 16+
Genre: Fiction
# Of pages: 470
Publisher: Harper Collins
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? No
Rating: 1 for language, drug and alcohol use, violence, and sexual situations (View Scale)
Recommend? No

Description: What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life? Samantha Kingston has it all: the world’s most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first-pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High – from the best table at the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12, should be just another day in her charmed life. Instead, it turns out to be her last. Then she gets a second chance. Seven chances in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death – and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing.

Review: Samantha was able to relive the last day of her life seven times. In the beginning of the novel she started out as a shallow, selfish, stuck-up, snob who is preparing to lose her virginity to her boyfriend that night because she is tired of being afraid of sex and wants to get it over with. Instead, she winds up dying in a car accident, but wakes up the next day only to realize that it is really yesterday again (in much the same way that Bill Murray’s character relieved the same day in the movie Groundhog Day). Samantha soon realizes that no matter what she says or does, “today” will be erased when she wakes up the next morning. This leads to her making some very poor decisions and for a while she actually manages (somehow) to turn into an even more dislikable person than the one she started out as. Each day, however, Samantha learns more and more about those around her and it is as if parts of a puzzle are slowly come together day after day. As she learns more and more each day about her friends, acquaintances and herself, she matures, makes decisions that are finally honorable, anddevelops depth of character. Once Samantha learns what is making certain people behave the way they do, she is able to love them and appreciate them in a way she could not before.

Rating: 1 for bad language, sexual situations, violence, smoking, frequent drug and alcohol use.

Positive: The main character, Samantha, eventually matures and by the end of the book has acquired many of the values that she was missing in the beginning. She appreciates her family and chooses to spend some quality time with them on her final day. She loves her friends for who they are – even though they clearly have faults. She realizes that her feelings for her boyfriend were baseless and allows herself to fall in love with a boy with whom she normally would not have associated. She becomes kind and begins thinking of others instead of herself. The final person that Samantha becomes is a person worth knowing.

Spiritual Elements: Very little in the way of spiritual elements are mentioned, which is somewhat is surprising since you would imagine that a teenage girl who keeps dying would at least wonder about her soul and what happens to it when her body dies. Her best friend once confessed that “sometimes when she’s upset about something she recites this Catholic bedtime prayer she memorized when she was little, even though she’s half Jewish and doesn’t even believe in God anyway.” Samantha and her friends also play with a Ouija board, but they seem to be just goofing around with it, not actually trying to read their futures.

Violence: The main character dies multiple times, most often by being in a car accident or being hit by a car. Another character commits suicide with a gun. Her teacher kisses and gropes her and when she tries to push him off of her, she can’t because he’s too strong.

Language: Full of bad language – if you can imagine it, it’s probably said, so I won’t bother listing everything. The Lord’s name is taken in vain multiple times.

Sexual Content: Lots of sexual content and references. Most disturbing is Samantha’s flirtations with a teacher that eventually result in a kissing/groping scene.

Other: Samantha smokes pot, drinks and propositions her teacher.

Recommendation: This was actually a well-written, engaging book and I seriously considered recommending it with STRONG reservations because I enjoyed reading it very much – I found that I couldn’t wait to see what happened next as bits and pieces of the stories of Samantha’s classmates were revealed. However, while Samantha does become a better person and matures a great deal, she never draws closer to God (or even thinks about Him for that matter). While this is not a requirement I make before I will recommend a book, the tremendous amount of sex, drinking and terrible language involved, ultimately made me decide that Samantha’s becoming a “better person” wasn’t a compelling enough reason to make me recommend the book to teen readers.

The Rogues

2011-02-14T19:04:00.000-06:00

By Reviewer: Dianne

Title: The Rogues
Author: Jane Yolen and Robert J. Harris
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult
Genre: Historical Fiction
# Of pages: 277
Publisher: Philomel Books
Year of Release: 2007
Part of a Series? Yes, 4 of 4 of Stuart Quartet Series (But will stand alone)
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: The Macallan family are tenant farmers in a small croft in the Scottish Highlands in the 18th century. During that time many of the Scottish lairds found it more profitable to rent their land to the English for grazing their sheep than to allow the native farmers to support their families by farming. When their farms are burned, they are forced to flee. Young Roddy Macallan returns to his burned out home, determined to discover the “blessing” (a brooch that was given to the family by Bonnie Prince Charles that his mother had hidden before her death) in hopes that it will improve their lot. When he does find it, he is almost immediately set upon by the laird’s men and relieved of his treasure. He joins forces with a Robin-Hood type rogue to recover what rightly belongs to his family.

Review: This is a skillfully written book that gives a good idea of the conditions that were endured by the common people of Scotland during the 18th century. A bit of Scottish brogue adds to the authenticity of the story, but might be a bit off-setting to a young reader. There is a big dollop of adventure, a slight tinge of romance, a bit of mystery and villains enough to provide an engrossing tale. I found myself cheering for Roddy and Alan Dunbar, even if Alan was a scoundrel. I especially appreciated an afterword that gives information as to which parts of the story are based on fact.

Rating: 4 for violence, non-glamorized use of alcohol

Positive: The loyalty shown to family and friends permeates the book as the characters seek to assist and protect their neighbors. Although Alan Dunbar was a rascal, ever ready to do what was necessary to save his own skin, he still had a code of honor when it came to protecting what was right and fair.

Spiritual Elements: The kirk (church) was the community meeting place and was a basic part of village life. Even though the preacher, Mr. McGillivray, considered the village people his flock, he was in the hire of the laird and seemed to relish preaching fire and brimstone to the congregation.

Violence: Whole villages were burned to clear the people from the land, and individuals were beaten, robbed, stabbed or shot and often left for dead.

Language: None

Sexual Content: None

Other: Frequent references were made to drinking whisky, but there was no evidence of drunken behavior.

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to all young adults with a love of historical fiction. It was superbly written with an eye for detail. The only concern I would have is that it might be a bit confusing for younger teens who might struggle with the dialect.

Three Black Swans

2011-01-31T19:15:00.000-06:00

By Reviewer: Dianne

Title: Three Black Swans
Author: Caroline B. Cooney
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult
Genre: Realistic Fiction
# Of pages: 276
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? No
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: From Book Jacket:
“Black Swans: events that are hugely important, rare and unpredictable, and explainable only after the fact.

When Missy hears an expert discussing newborn babies on the radio, it makes her wonder about her family. She and her cousin Claire are best friends who finish each other’s sentences and practically read each other’s minds. It’s an eerie connection – so eerie that Missy has questions she wants to put to her parents. But she’s afraid to ask.

Still, Missy can’t let go of those nagging questions, so she decides to use a school project about scientific hoaxes to try to uncover the answers, and she enlists Claire to help. As part of the project, they perform a dramatic scene that is captured on video at school."

After the video is posted on You Tube, Missy and Claire realize that they’ve opened Pandora’s box. Not only are their identities called into question, but so is the future of everyone involved. In this riveting, heartrending story by beloved author Caroline B. Cooney, the truth changes the lives of three families – but the bonds of blood withstand the strains of long-hidden secrets that are at last revealed.”

Review: This fascinating story about family relationships keeps you enthralled even if though there are so many improbabilities that the story often strains credulity. Almost anything I say will be a tip off as to the direction the story takes…and I wouldn’t want to spoil it for the reader who will surely determine what is happening before knowing the outcome…but that is part of the charm of the story. Suspend your disbelief for a little while and just enjoy the book.

Rating: 5

Positive: Claire and Missy are cousins, have a wonderfully close relationship, and are part of solid families that care deeply about each other. They become even more aware of the importance of keeping family relationships strong as the story moves along.

The girls find there are unintended consequences to their rash actions and that words hastily spoken cannot be recalled.

Spiritual Elements: Church attendance was mentioned in an offhand way, but was not an integral part of the story.

Violence: Allegra threatens to cut her wrist with a kitchen knife.

Language: None

Sexual Content: None

Other: There was dishonesty as the girls concoct a scheme to complete a “project” that was a hoax to begin with.

Recommendation: Yes. I would recommend this book for girls 13+.

Heart's Blood

2011-01-26T20:36:00.001-06:00

By Reviewer: Amy Jane
Title: Heart’s Blood
Author: Juliet Marillier
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult (16+)
Genre: Fantasy
# Of pages: 402
Publisher: ROC
Year of Release: 2009
Part of a Series? No
Rating: 2 for sexuality
Recommend? Yes but with Reservations

Description: Despite the rumors surrounding Whistling Tor, Caitrin is determined to stay and do the scribing work offered. Not only is it a rare honest living for a young woman, Whistling Tor is enough cut off from the world she hope she will be safe from the abusive relatives she ran from. Anluan, the master of the house, is palsied, and the forth in a line of feared lords who take their tributes without leading their people. Caitrin learns that Anluan is doing more than the people guess to keep them safe—at great personal cost.

Review: I was glad I read the book, but disappointed too. The author got so many things *close* to right: the power (and necessity) of hope, the nature of regret and the scarring power of words. But the emphasis on goodness as a means to atonement, and sex before marriage should both be red flags for Christian parents.

Rating: 2—a man lusts after a girl (without acting on it) and a couple engages in premarital sex. Also, magical hordes are described as dismembering victims, but only with as much detail as I just used.

Positive: Caitrin is diligent in her work, thinks the best of nearly everyone, and is source of needed encouragement. She is careful of appearances (avoiding "even the appearance of evil" for much of the story) and stands by the codes she sets for herself, largely following her head and good advice rather than impulses or the accusing voices in the haunted place.

Thinking of others above themselves, both Anluan and Caitrin confront huge fears in their lives.

Despite their challenging situations Caitrin and Anluan find themselves surrounded by good and helpful people, loyal friends who help them become more whole.

Children are valued.

Spiritual Elements: This is where things start to get tricky. We have two pentagram-centered rituals with muttered Latin. They aren’t particularly creepy in themselves. There is also the plot-centric “horde” of individuals trapped in between life and death. Much talk is given to why they might be still hanging around and how they may get a chance to atone for the deeds that kept them from going straight to heaven.

I don’t mind ghosts as a literary device, but I have a harder time suspending disbelief when they directly discuss how or why they exist, because that starts to touch on theology and is rarely accurate.

Caitrin frequently encourages others with the hope of atoning for past failings with future valor or virtue—promoting the unbiblical “scales” of good versus evil as the determiner of our eternal destiny.

Violence: The most specific descriptions are of the physical abuse Caitrin endured: teeth jarring slaps, bruises. The horde is the source of much fear and carnage over their century of activity, but the descriptions aren’t vibrant. The deaths of the preceding lords and their ladies come out.

Language: I don’t remember anything specific.

Sexual Content: The other uncomfortable part.

Sisters discuss “the act of love” in a discreet put pointed way.

Like I said earlier, there is a wicked man, lusting after a young woman.

[Spoiler]: One of the Tor’s voices attacks Caitrin with the accusation that her desire for Anluan is just as crude and empty. She resists the accusation. One of the fantasies Anluan conjures in his might-have-been mirror is making love.

One of the things that make this a hard section to comment on is that the author got it so nearly right: sex is an amazingly powerful thing, not to be treated lightly. It is life-giving in more ways than making babies: giving life to husband and wife, and their relationship.

To her credit Caitrin keeps her distance until “she knows,” and her offering herself is treated with respect, but they aren’t married, and I felt a heavy disappointment. Though, not surprise, I suppose, as a secular author would not have the same compunction as someone with a Christian worldview.

Other: Ale and mead are frequently consumed, but only once enough to result in a hangover.

The nearness of (self-centered) love and hate is explored, another topic useful to older teens that may be too intense for the younger set.

Recommendation: This novel was an intriguing take on Beauty and the Beast, particularly since the beauty was broken on her arrival, and the process helped her grow and heal as much as her “beast.” I liked also how Anluan’s transformation took place without it being physical.

This is one I recommend parents read before or after their older teen. If you’re the sort to do so, it would afford useful conversations about the nature of love and relationships.

Because of the sexuality and the skewed perspective on redemption, this isn’t one to turn your younger teen loose with.

Unlikely Angel

2011-01-24T15:51:00.002-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna

Title: Unlikely Angel
Author: Ashley Smith with Stacy Mattingly
Primary Audience/age group: Adult, 14+
Genre: Autobiography
# of pages: 272
Publisher: Zondervan
Year of Release: 2005
Part of a series No
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes with Reservations

Description: Twenty-seven year old Ashley Smith has recently gotten her life back on track after spiraling into a deep depression and drug addiction brought on by the murder of her husband. Working two jobs and going to school to be a medical assistant, she hopes to regain custody of her six-year old daughter. Then, she is taken hostage by Atlanta courtroom killer Brian Nichols. She shares her ordeal how, by relying on God, she convinces her captor to let her go and turn himself in to police.

Review: Ashley Smith’s vivid account of her plight to save her own and other’s lives from Brian Nichol’s murderous rampage is a remarkable story. Only God could have used Ashley to change Brian’s heart as she gives Him credit over and over in the book. Those dealing with drug addiction or other dark places in their lives would benefit from Ashley’s testimony. If God could turn her life around and bring her out of the depths of drug addiction and depression He is sure to do the same for others. Her story of hope and healing is something not to be missed.

Rating: 3 for drug references and violence

Positive: Ashley shares vividly about her drug addiction and the bad choices she made causing her to almost lose her life in addition to losing custody of her daughter. Through sharing her life, she is able to encourage others to choose the path God has destined for them. She shares the insights that God gave her using the book The Purpose Driven Life and how it and this ordeal caused her to re-evaluate her life choices and turn back to the right path.

Spiritual Elements: Ashley prays continuously throughout the ordeal. She talks with Brian Nichols about his relationship with Jesus and encourages him to do the right thing. She is very candid about her relationship with Christ, how she is growing in her faith, and how He is changing her life for the better.

Violence: Ashley talks about how her husband, Mack, was murdered and died in her arms. Brian Nichols had murdered four people earlier that day when he took Ashley hostage, but the killings are not described in detail.

Language: none

Sexual Content: none

Other: Ashley and Mack conceived their daughter before they were married. Mack had wanted her to get an abortion, but she refused. I think through her adamant refusal, she changed his heart. They wed to provide a stable home for their daughter and both loved her very much.

Ashley is very candid about her drug use and her drugs of choice. She gives details about how she administered the drugs. She and Mack used drugs before he was murdered. He actually dealt drugs on the side, and she went along with him. He was physcially abusive to her at times, knocking her out and leaving her at a club. After this occurrence, Mack realized he needed to change.

After his death, Ashley wanted nothing more than to check out of life and turned to a more callous drug, meth or ice. She fell harder and harder into her addiction, but eventually decided she wanted her life and her daughter back. She was on the mend when Brian Nichols entered her life.

Recommendation: Ashley’s testimony makes it very clear that God is a loving and forgiving God if we come to Him. The Bible says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 He also has a purpose for each of our lives, and we do not have to be perfect for Him to use us. Even though her testimony deals with mature topics, I think the book is still appropriate for ages 14 and up.

Touch Blue

2011-01-22T16:13:00.001-06:00

By Reviewer: Dianne

Title: Touch Blue

Author: Cynthia Lord
Primary Audience/age group: 9–12
Genre: Realistic Fiction

# Of pages: 186

Publisher: Scholastic Press
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? No
Rating: 5 (View Scale)

Recommend? Yes

Description: “Touch blue and your wish will come true.” Eleven year old Tess hopes that superstitions, sayings and the lucky objects that she keeps in her pockets will influence her luck and make her wishes come true. Right now her biggest worry is that her family will have to move off the tiny island that has always been her home. When her best friend’s family moved away from the island with their five children, the state of Maine planned to close their school for lack of students. Fortunately, the islanders came up with their own plan to forestall the closing of the school. Enough people on the island agreed to be foster parents that there would be enough students to warrant keeping the school open. Tess and her five year old sister, Libby, are ooking forward to having an older foster brother. Aaron has been bounced from home to home and is certainly not ready to jump into this ready made family. Tess finds that Aaron is not at all what she was expecting, but seeks to make the best of the situation and does everything she can think of to make him feel like a part of their family.

Review: This is an enjoyable story in which Tess learns that you do have some measure of control over situations by the way that you react to them, and that luck doesn’t have a lot of influence over the outcome.

Rating: 5

Positive: Tess truly cares about Aaron as a person instead of viewing him as simply a statistic that will keep the school open.

Spiritual Elements: Reverend Beal and the parish hall hold a central place on the small island and church is an expected part of everyone’s normal activities. Aaron plays the trumpet and Tess sings Peace Like a River and Amazing Grace and agrees to play the organ when the church organist retires.

Tess wonders if God ever makes mistakes. Her dad circumvents the question instead of answering directly.

Violence: Aaron punches the town bully in the face when he calls Aaron an orphan and makes disparaging remarks about his mother.

Language: None

Sexual Content: None

Other: Aaron’s mother had to put him in the foster care system because she had a problem caring for him due to her drinking.

Recommendation: I would recommend this book for ages 9–12. Although this book deals with the difficult and emotional matter of foster care, Cynthia Lord handles the situation in a sensitive manner that should appeal to pre-teens.

Behemoth

2011-01-15T13:47:00.001-06:00

Reviewed by: Patricia Jonker

Title: Behemoth
Author: Scott Westerfield
Primary Audience: Middle School and up, 12+
Genre: Historic Fiction/ Science Fiction
(*teens refer to this genre as “Steam Punk”)
Pages: 485
Publisher: Simon and Schuster, Inc
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series: The Leviathan Series Book 2
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes but with reservations

Description: The Behemoth is the fiercest creature/Navy ship in the British Navy. It can swallow enemy ships in one bite. Darwinists (Represent the Nazi’s) are at war with the Clankers (Represent the Allies). Deryn, posing as a boy in the British Airforce, and Alec, fleeing heir to the throne of Austria - posing as a peasant, hope to bring the war to a halt after stumbling across the plans of the Darwinists.

Review: I liked the story. It gives a loose representation of Nazi Germany and their plans to take over the world. It isn’t factually accurate and isn’t meant to be. This will draw more boys than girls due to all the machines and war story line. There is a strong girl figure, Deryn. I liked the characters and feel that kids will relate to them as well. This is the sequel to Leviathan by Scott Westerfield. The ending indicates there will be more in the series. I haven’t read Leviathan as of yet, my students tell me it is better than Behemoth which I enjoyed.

Rating: 3 for language and a kiss between a boy and a girl, but the boy doesn’t know the girl is a girl

Spiritual Elements: none

Violence: battle scenes

Language: There is some language mostly English swear words. (bloody, etc)

Sexual Content: Deryn disguises herself as a boy. She begins to have feelings for Alec and kisses him. Nothing develops from the kiss as Deryn realizes she needs to conceal her identity even though she is in love with Alec and wants to tell him the truth. This relationship could develop further in future books.

Other: none

Recommendation: A little concerning in that Deryn is disguised as a boy and begins to have feelings for Alec who does not know she is a girl. She actually kisses him at one point and is embarrassed by her actions. The boy doesn’t realize he isn’t being kissed by a boy and doesn’t make a big deal of the situation. The author deals with it more by sharing Deryn’s feelings with the readers. It isn’t dwelt upon but is probably setting you up for a future relationship with the two. There is never any talk of homosexuality. Recommended for ages 12 and up

Evermore

2011-01-11T20:13:00.003-06:00

Reviewed by: Rachel

Title: Evermore
Author: Alyson Noel
Primary Audience/age group: 12 and up
Genre: Fiction
# Of pages: 306
Publisher: Griffin
Year of Release: 2009
Part of a Series?: 1 of 6
Rating: 1 (View Scale)
Recommend? No

Description: After her family dies in a car accident, leaving her as the only survivor Ever has been both blessed and cursed with the ability to see people’s auras and hear people’s thoughts. With physical contact she can also see what has happened in that particular person’s life. Ever hates her new abilities and she wishes for them to disappear. She finds that when she is with the new guy in her high school, Damen Auguste, the random thoughts and auras go away. But why?

Review: I liked the characters and how dynamic their personalities are, but as far as the storyline goes, it is very cliché. It’s the whole “Forbidden Love” theme. I wasn’t very interested in the book and it didn’t capture my attention that much. There were scenes that seemed really childish at points. I did hear that the series gets better as it goes along, but considering the content in this first book I wouldn’t suggest finding out.

Rating: 1 for language and sexual content

Positive: Sadly there really isn’t anything that positive, except that Ever had a really strong genuine relationship with her sister and she shows her aunt some respect at times. But everything, Even down to Ever’s friendships aren’t really positive.

Spiritual Elements: Ever finds out from her sister’s spirit that her parents went to heaven. She later sees her sister leave to go to heaven.

Violence: At the end of the book, it gets a little violent. At one point Ever is hit in the face so hard that her nose is broken. She is beaten up further, but summons her powers to heal herself.

Language: I didn’t count how many where in the book, but there were at least a couple dozen profanities, ranging from God’s name to f***.

Sexual Content: LOTS of kissing ,plenty of make out scenes, and numerous sexual comments. At one point Damen and Ever are making out in a cave and the scene gets very detailed. Ever gets nervous, however, so they don’t follow through with their plans. Ever is mocked for being a virgin and there are plenty of comments about how guys have been trying to get in her pants. One of Ever’s friends is gay and he brings his boyfriend to a party and talks about how “hot” he is. At one point people think that Ever is a lesbian.

Other: Friendship is taken so lightly in this book. Friends hate each other and at the end they don’t really make emends. There is some teenage drinking and partying.

Recommendation: I do not recommend this book. There are way too many profanities and way too much sexual content. There are a lot of great books out there, but this is not one of them.

The Healer's Apprentice

2011-01-01T16:11:00.004-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna

Title: The Healer’s Apprentice
Author: Melanie Dickerson
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult – 14+
Genre: Christian Fantasy/Romantic Fantasy
# of pages 272
Publisher: Zondervan
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a series No
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Rose, raised a woodcutter’s daughter, has been given the opportunity to study under Frau Geruscha’s tutelage to be a healer. Unlike other girls with her same background, she learns to read and is taught the social graces of the upper class although she realizes she will never considered as such. Rose resigns herself to be a healer’s apprentice until she meets the Duke’s two sons, Lord Hamlin and Lord Rupert. Both are drawn to Rose for very different reasons.

Lord Hamlin becomes enamored by her when he cuts his leg in a hunting accident and goes to her for care, but his love for her can never be. He has been betrothed for many years to a young woman he has never met, a woman who he has vowed to protect from the evil conjurer Moncore. Lord Hamlin wrestles with his feelings, but eventually decides to allow his younger, yet less respectable, brother woo Rose.

Lord Rupert is known for his indiscretions and flattering tongue but seems to have changed since meeting Rose. He promises to Lord Hamlin that his feelings are true and that he has every intention of marrying Rose. But, Rose is torn between Lord Rupert’s overwhelming advances and her feelings for Lord Hamlin. Unsure of what her future holds Rose must seek out her own destiny.

Review: The Healer’s Apprentice is a coming of age tale of Rose, a young woman trying to discover who God has called her to be. Like many, she struggles with making the best decisions for her life even with the sound advice of her mentor, Frau Geruscha. But, God is a forgiving and patient God who waits for us to seek Him, which is what Rose eventually does. But, before she does so she allows herself to be led astray by her emotions, her heart. The book does a wonderful job of shedding light on what can happen when you get carried away with your emotions and rush ahead of God. He has a plan for each of our lives as he does for Rose in The Healer’s Apprentice. You will certainly be able to take away the importance of waiting on God’s timing within the book and realize He does give us “the desires of our hearts,” pure and noble desires, if we seek Him first.

Rating: 3 for moderate sexual detail (see rating scale)

Positive: Rose has a wonderful mentor in Frau Geruscha, who offers her godly advice on many occasions. Rose thinks before she acts and decides to remain virtuous. She is cautious at first to the duke’s youngest son’s advances, but then decides to allow him to court her against the advice of her master and mentor, Frau Geruscha. Rose then realizes her mistake in allowing herself to be controlled by her emotions and sees that seeking God should have been her first priority.

We see the difference between a man with honorable intentions who chooses self-control over one who is self-seeking and uses flattery, insincere praise, in order to manipulate others. The Bible cautions us against the use of flattery, “…and a flattering mouth works ruin.” Psalm 26:28b

Spiritual Elements: The healer’s ask their patients to be healed in the name of Jesus. Frau Geruscha and Rose read their bible. Both Rose and Lord Wilhelm seek God through prayer and grow deeper in their relationship with Him as the story progresses. Rose sees a play about Jesus casting out demons.

A dark conjuror had previously been cast out of the region and seeks to destroy Lord Hamlin’s betrothed by using dark magic. He is controlled by demons and his intent is to share his torment with the betrothed.

Violence: Frau Geruscha and Rose take care of several ill patients, some with nasty wounds. Rose is attacked a couple of times and so is her friend Hildy. Hildy’s love interest decides to take matters into his own hands and ends up being sentenced to death.

Language: wench, d***able, d**n

Sexual Content: Lord Rupert is known for his indiscretions and carousing with women. In the past he has used flattery to seduce them. Now, he has set his eyes on Rose, but she is unsure whether his advances are for the right reasons. At first she resists, but he continues to pursue her claiming to both Rose and his brother that he has good intentions. She succumbs to his overwhelming presence and sweet words. This somewhat passionate scene plays out, but Rose doesn’t allow Rupert to kiss her…yet. She does on a later occasion.

(Spoiler) After Lord Rupert feels he has Rose’s heart, he proposes to her but not in the way she expected. Since he will become the new bishop, a position that requires he does not marry, he wants Rose to act the part of his wife without them truly being bound by marriage. She is outraged by his proposition and refuses him.

Other: Drunkeness is mentioned. The young people do drink wine given the time period.

Recommendation: The Healer’s Apprentice has many positive Biblical truths and is especially keen on showing the consequences of not seeking God’s will, especially in relationships. It portrays how easy it is to be controlled by feelings and desires and to be led astray by those who use flattery. It encourages teens to be patient in waiting for the mate that God has planned for them. I would recommend the book for ages 14 and up.

God's Smuggler

2010-12-21T14:49:00.001-06:00

Reviewed by: Emily

Title: God’s Smuggler

Author: Brother Andrew with John and Elizabeth Sherrill

Primary Audience/age group: 12+

Genre: Autobiography

# Of pages: 255
Publisher: Chosen Books
Year of Release: 2007
Rating: 3, for violence (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: In this suspenseful, awe-inspiring narrative, Brother Andrew relates his thrilling story of evangelism behind the Iron Curtain. Called by God to encourage the struggling Christians behind the Iron Curtain, Brother Andrew risks his life again and again to provide his fellow Christians with the two things they need most– fellowship and Bibles.

Review: Brother Andrew’s story will leave you amazed at the power of God. The book is well written, infused with humor and sincerity. As you read, it feels as if Brother Andrew is in your living room telling his story to you. Throughout the book, his deep, passionate love for God shines through. In addition to being spiritually uplifting, the story is just plain exciting. Brother Andrew moves from one dangerous situation to the next, compelling you to read just one more page to find out how God delivers him. This is a book you will want to have in your personal library so you can read it again and again.

Rating: 3, for violence

Positive: Brother Andrew has a wonderful relationship with God. With his great faith and willingness to devote his entire life to God’s service, he is an excellent role model. His excitement for reading the Bible, prayer, and serving God is infectious. Love for family and friends, frugality, and generosity to the less fortunate are continuous themes in the book. While presenting the story of a courageous man of God, first and foremost God’s Smuggler draws attention to God’s power, goodness, and love.

Spiritual Elements: The entire book centers around Brother Andrew’s relationship with God as well as the amazing work God did through and for Andrew and his fellow missionaries. Andrew also describes the negative opinion he held of God before he became a Christian. Other religions such as Islam are addressed.

Violence: Young Andrew and his friends hitting each other with their wooden shoes. During the Nazi occupation of Holland, young Andrew plays practical jokes on the soldiers involving fireworks. Andrew also describes his experiences in the army, including the horrors of battle, in some detail. He performs surgery on his pet monkey twice, once after a fellow soldier brutally abused the animal.

Language: None. When people swear in the book, it is noted, but the actual words are not included.

Sexual Content: At the chocolate factory where Andrew works, some girls make bawdy jokes. Andrew describes his relationships with his first girlfriend and his wife, but not on a sexual level.

Recommendation: I heartily recommend this book to anyone age 12 and up. The suspense, violent scenes, and other mature subject matter may not be appropriate for younger children.

Healer (The Brides of Alba)

2010-12-11T13:56:00.001-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: Healer
Author: Linda Windsor
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult – 16+
Genre: Christian Historical Romance/Fantasy
# of pages 384
Publisher: David C. Cook
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a series If yes, 1 of ?? (Brides of Alba)
Rating: 2 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes but with reservations (for an older audience)

Description: In the time of King Arthur, two families are at strife, the Gowrys and the O’Byrnes, driven by the greed and bitterness of one man, Tarlach O’Byrne. But, even his oppressive reign cannot stop the prophecy that his family will be divided. For twenty years, Brenna of Gowrys has been in hiding with her lone companion, a wolf. She has been waiting for the day the two clans will be reunited, and she can openly use the gift God bestowed on her, the gift of healing. When she finds a man of unknown origin injured and left for dead presumably by one of her own she uses her gift to nurse him back to health. But, an unexpected thing happens…she falls in love. Will their love be enough to fulfill the prophecy of peace before evil overtakes them all?

Review: Windsor did her homework thoroughly on researching the Medieval period and King Arthur, who also appears in the story. She provides definitions and character bios at the end for further reference. She does a remarkable job of storytelling using rich descriptions and building the characters of Brenna and Ronan as both well-rounded and enduring. The violence is fierce at times reminding us of the brutal spirit of the time period. The characters are passionate in love and conflict. But, however blessed and in God’s will Brenna and Ronan’s romance is within the story, it is still one for an older audience. Please use caution with those under age 16.

Rating: 2 for mature situations and violence

Positive: Brenna chooses to put God first and seeks Him in her decisions. Even though Tarlach, Ronan’s father and king of the O’Byrne clan, murders her family, she only shows him the love of Christ. Through her actions, God uses Brenna to change the lives of others.

Spiritual Elements: The Gowrys believe in and worship the one true, God. The Gowry women, Joanna and her daughter Brenna, are accused of witchcraft when in actuality they have the gift of healing, using only natural medicine and working miracles through the Holy Spirit. They also posses the gift of prophecy, hearing God speak to them through dreams and visions.

Many in the O’Byrne clan are superstitious and worship other gods including Tarlach’s daughter-in-law, Rhianon. She and her maid use dark magic to obtain what they want. Their dealings end up causing several to be possessed with demons. The other gods and the One true God are at odds with each other in the story. Scripture flows throughout.

Violence: The story begins with bloodshed as a jealous and vengeful Tarlach and his warriors come to claim what he believes is his, Joanna, queen of the Gowry’s clan. Tarlach beheads her husband and kills every other person that stands in the way. He even brings his young son, Ronan, to witness the massacre, which haunts Ronan for many years. In addition, there are suicides, burning of villages, and more blood shed.

Language: H*ll, d**n, by the gods.

Sexual Content: The O’Byrne brothers joke about Caden (the middle brother) and his wife Rhianon’s, reputation of being loud lovers. Sex is implied throughout the story but not described. Brenna is taught by other healers about the physical difference with men. As Brenna takes care of Ronan alone, she must deal with his nakedness maturely. She uses herbs to make him impotent in order to keep herself from harm since she doesn’t know if he is friend or foe yet. As he returns to health, they joke about this, but he is unaware that she has drugged him. They do fall in love but marry before anything happens between them.

Other: There are several mentions of ale, wine, and drunkenness, Caden goes into a drunken rage and fights Ronan.

Recommendation: The book deals with mature content. The scene with Brenna taking care of Ronan is a fairly long sequence. His anatomy is referred to on more than one occasion even though the author does a fine job of using descriptive yet not crude wording. It’s a coming of age story that deals with sexuality, and younger readers will probably not be ready for the subject matter. I think the book can be enjoyed more fully by an older audience, 16+.

Shoot the Wounded

2010-11-16T17:26:00.003-06:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: Shoot the Wounded
Author: Lynn Dove
Primary Audience/age group: 13+
Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction
# of pages 147
Publisher: Word Alive Press
Year of Release: 2009
Part of a series Yes, 1 of 3
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Leigh and Veronica (aka Ronnie) have been best friends since childhood but their relationship grows strained as they enter high school. Ronnie begins spiraling down a wrong path, and Leigh isn’t quite sure what to do. They both befriend the new guy in town, Jake. But, even though he appears to be a nice Christian boy, he’s hiding a dark secret from his past. All are faced with tough choices that will affect them for the rest of their lives.

Review: Shoot the Wounded is very indicative of what high school life can be for a teenager. The book deals with some very relevant issues and shows how the choices teens make even in high school can affect them for the rest of their lives. I like how the author portrays “real-life” dynamics in two very different Christian households and how parents can have a good relationship with their teenaged children even if they haven't had one before.

Rating: 3 for mature themes: teenage pregnancy, domestic violence

Positive: We see the dynamics of two families and how the relatioships the parents have with their teenaged children affect their children. Leigh’s parents are more restrictive than Ronnie’s, and Leigh comes to realize that they set boundaries for her own good. Ronnie sees the difference between her relationship with her parents and Leigh’s and envies what she doesn’t have. Many other topics are covered within the book including gossip and how damaging it can be, teenage pregnancy, and domestic violence, all issues that teenagers may face.

Spiritual Elements: Leigh, Ronnie, and Jake all attend church (or at least did at one point), but Ronnie starts down a rebellious path. Leigh tries to live a godly lifestyle and has the support of her parents to do so. Her mom prays with her. Jake moves into a mentor role for Ronnie as she’s struggling with the consequences of her choices. He is shown as having faults but tries to rely on God and His word to be a better person.

Violence: Ronnie is rejected and verbally abused by a guy she's been seeing. Jake smacks Ronnie when she threatens to kill herself.

Language: none

Sexual Content: See other

Other: Ronnie gains a rebellious reputation and is considered a “sleaze.” She sneaks out of her home, smokes, drinks, and is seen making out in a car at school.

Recommendation: Since the book deals with more mature themes I feel it is most appropriate for ages 13 and up. I think it would be an excellent book to read together with your teen and discuss some of the major themes.

Solitary

2010-10-16T21:37:00.006-05:00

By Reviewer: Dianne
Title: Solitary
Author: Travis Thrasher
Primary Audience/age group: Young Adult
Genre: Christian Horror
# Of pages: 392
Publisher: David C. Cook
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? Yes, 1 of 4
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: From Amazon:
“His Loneliness Will Soon Turn to Fear….

When Chris Buckley moves to Solitary, North Carolina, he faces the reality of his parents’ divorce, a school full of nameless faces—and Jocelyn Evans. Jocelyn is beautiful and mysterious enough to leave Chris speechless. But the more Jocelyn resists him, the more the two are drawn together.

Chris soon learns that Jocelyn has secrets as deep as the town itself. Secrets more terrifying than the bullies he faces in the locker room or his mother’s unexplained nightmares. He slowly begins to understand the horrific answers. The question is whether he can save Jocelyn in time.

This first book in the Solitary Tales series will take you from the cold halls of high school to the dark rooms of an abandoned cabin—and remind you what it means to believe in what you cannot see.”

Review: Chris and Jocelyn are both searching for a faith that neither possess. Chris has rejected God as he believes that his father’s faith is the cause of the breakup of his parents’ marriage. Jocelyn knows of the faith of her parents and seeks reassurance from a God that she doesn’t know. She feels that there is something sinister at work in the small town of Solitary and has felt that evil has been stalking her ever since her parents died in a car crash when she was six.

The story moves quickly, with much of the action taking place in Chris’s mind. You can feel the frustration that Chris experiences as no one will talk about what is going on in the town, and Chris concludes that he can trust no one. The mysterious warning notes that show up in his locker, the unearthly cold that surrounds him in the woods around his house, the strange deserted cabin in the woods and the feeling that he is always being watched all serve to put him on high alert. There is hope, as Chris considers the Bible that his father gave him before the move…Maybe that is where to find the answers… The questions abound and answers are elusive…even at the end, which leaves plenty of loose ends to be tied up in a sequel…
Rating: 3 for violence

Positive: Chris is very respectful of his mother’s feelings and is very protective of her. He has made a pledge to himself to always respect girls. Chris also has a protective instinct which comes to the fore when he steps in to defend a younger student whom he doesn’t even know who has been set upon by bullies in his high school. Chris is totally dedicated to Jocelyn and completely loyal to her.

Spiritual Elements: Much Satanic activity was implied even though there was no overt reference to Satan. The smell of sulfur, a demon dog with glowing eyes, the total absence of any indication of the celebration of Christmas, the strange message from the pastor that counsels “Don’t fear darkness…Fear the light that tries to burn it out.”, a group of people wearing red robes attending a bonfire at night…all indicate a satanic presence. The faith of Chris’s father is a thorn in Chris’s side throughout the book, but in troubled times, Chris considers what he knew of his father’s faith and wonders if it might provide some guidance. Jocelyn’s parents were Christians before their deaths and Jocelyn is comforted by that fact. She also finds answers in the Bible that Chris gave to her.

Violence: There are repeated incidents of bullying throughout the story, even to the extent that Chris is knocked out, gagged, tied up and dumped in the hole underneath an abandoned cabin in the woods. Chris is attacked and bitten by a “demon dog” when trespassing on a neighbor’s property. Jocelyn is physically abused by Wade, a “step-uncle” with whom she lives. He slaps her across the face and she shows up later with a bruised face from a beating she received at his hands. There is another incident where Wade attacked her, tearing her blouse, and hinting at attempted rape. She denied that she had been raped.

Language: None. There is the mention of hell, but in reference to the place, and not used as a profanity.

Sexual Content: There are a number of times when Chris and Jocelyn kiss and one incident of Jocelyn reaching for Chris’s belt buckle, but he rebuffs her. Jocelyn’s aunt lives with Wade, who refers to himself as Jocelyn’s “step-uncle”, but is not married to him.

Other: Chris’s mother drinks heavily on a number of occasions, to the point of being incoherent or passing out. Chris and Jocelyn attend a party after a school dance where students are drinking beer.

Recommendation: I would recommend for high school and up due to the subject matter.

The Case for Faith (Student Edition)

2010-10-04T21:49:00.000-05:00

Reviewed by: Emily
Author: Lee Strobel (with Jane Vogel)
Title: The Case For Faith (student edition)
Primary Audience/age group: 12+
Genre: non-fiction
# Of pages: 95
Publisher: Zondervan
Year of Release: 2002
Rating: 3 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description (from book jacket): If God is loving, why does He allow so much suffering? If God is merciful, how could He torture people in H*ll? If God made the world, how do you explain evolution? It's not easy to believe in Christianity when questions like these tug at your heart–unless, of course there are answers... sound answers that don't just scratch the surface but satisfy you down deep... Lee Strobel knows how important it is to find answers that ring true. With his background as an award-winning legal journalist, asking tough questions has been his business... Join Lee in a fascinating journey of discovery. You'll gain powerful insights that will reshape your understanding of the Bible. And you'll read stories of people whose experiences demonstrate that faith in Jesus not only makes excellent sense, but a life changing difference.

Review: This is a fabulous book. Strobel concisely addresses many of the objections to Christianity, providing clear, logical explanations of why they need not destroy or prevent one's faith. He speaks in engaging language that can be easily understood by junior high and high school students. The book is rich with helpful charts and visuals, quotes from Bible scholars, philosophers, and scientists, and real life stories of God's work in people's lives. Strobel also encourages readers to put their faith in God and live their lives for Him. I have read this book a number of times at various points in my life, and been blessed by it each time.

Rating: 3, for brief discussion of the violence of 9/11 and one man's sexual sin.

Positive: Strobel provides clear logical evidence for the validity of the Christian faith. He provides many examples of the blessings individuals have reaped by placing their trust in God, as well as the good God has caused to come out of terrible situations. Strobel encourages readers to consider their own spiritual standing, in light of the evidence he presents, and decide to trust God, allowing Him to change their lives in amazing ways.

Spiritual Elements: In addition to discussing Christianity and quoting Bible verses, Strobel briefly discusses the beliefs of other major world religions and superstitions.

Violence: In discussing human suffering, Strobel describes some of the experiences of the 9/11 terrorist attack. While touching on some pretty graphic scenes, Strobel speaks with the objectiveness of a journalist and does not spend inordinate amounts of time describing the gruesome details.

Language: No inappropriate language.

Sexual Content: In describing a life of sin, Strobel mentions a man who is committing adultery.

Recommendation: I would definitely recommend The Case for Faith(student edition) to anyone, junior high and above, that is considering a faith in God, struggling with doubts, or wants be prepared with answers when others challenge the validity of the Christian faith. The book is a valuable resource for Christians.

Beween God & Me: A Journey Through Proverbs

2010-09-21T15:14:00.000-05:00

By Reviewer Leeann N. Cronk

Title: Between God & Me – A Journey Through Proverbs

Author: Vicki Courtney

Primary Audience/age group: Girls ages 9-12

Genre: Nonfiction

# Of pages: 150

Publisher: B&H Publishing Group
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? No (although other “issues” are available)
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description (from Amazon Product Description): Vicki Courtney speaks timeless truth to school-age girls in a modern language they understand. Her TeenVirtue and TeenVirtue: Confidential releases won ECPA Christian Book Awards while Between (for ages 8 to 12) landed on the industry’s young adult best seller list. Now, Between God and Me hits the “tween” scene with social talk that’s rooted in chapter-by-chapter wisdom from Proverbs. Amidst the cool, magazine-style photographs and colorful Q&A’s, kids will discover what’s not so cool about hanging with the wrong crowd, gossiping, being lazy or selfish, or having a bad temper. Girls will have all kinds of fun as they begin to understand that God has a greater purpose for their lives—even at this age

Review: I thought this was an engaging and thought-provoking book for pre-teen girls. It is an excellent Bible-study of the book of Proverbs that relates Old-Testament wisdom to modern day life. The publication tries to come across as “magazine-style”, but it really wasn't. The graphics and lay-out strive for this, but in reality I feel it is best read chronologically from front to back (unlike a real magazine with multiple articles and blurbs that can be read in any order). Additionally, the terminology “in this issue” is used (because there are other “Between” publications) which led me to further expect a traditional magazine-style read. When I began reading, it took me a while to get over the fact that it wasn't really a magazine – at least not the kind of magazine I was used to. Once I realized I was dealing with a Bible-study for young girls and started viewing it through that lens, I was able to appreciate it for all that it has to offer. I feel the lessons and thought provoking questions were excellent and that it had a lot to offer for girls in the upper-end of elementary school and into middle-school or junior-high. Girls who enjoy reading and answering questions on their own will probably get into the format and get a lot out of it. For less self-motivated girls, it would be an excellent tool to use in group settings.

Rating: 5

Positive: This book is full of positive, Christian-based encouragement for young girls. Every idea presented is Biblical, and it is an excellent resource for parents and/or teachers.

Spiritual Elements: This publication is full of spiritual insight that is based strictly on Biblical principles.

Violence: None

Language: None (unless you're offended by the term “poopy turds”. The author used this term to describe a disgusting habit her dog has).

Sexual Content: None

Other: Real-life situations where people do not live up to God's standards are relayed, but always against the conversation of what God wants us to be doing instead of what we might actually be doing

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to girls between the ages of 9 and 12. It would be especially useful in a Sunday-school or Bible-study setting.

Asking for Trouble

2010-09-14T18:03:00.000-05:00

Reviewed by: Shawna
Title: Asking for Trouble
Author: Sandra Byrd
Primary Audience/age group: 10+
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? Yes, 1 of 2 (London Confidential)
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Fifteen year old Savvy has recently moved to London from America and finds that her new home is quite different: fashion, culture, and “proper” English. When a position on the school newspaper opens up, Savvy thinks this is just the right place for her to belong. But, without the experience, she has to come up with a way to show the very cute editor that she has the right stuff without making a spectacle of her American self. But, will she be able to stick to her Christian principles and still fit in?

Review: Asking for Trouble is a light-hearted read that shows how 15-year old Savvy is able to adjust to life as an American teenager in London. She struggles with being the outsider in a new country and with leaving her old friends behind at first. But, God leads her through these struggles and grows her in her faith along the way. One of my favorite aspects of the book is when Savvy learns some new “proper” British terms. It was fun to see the two cultures collide. All in all, Savvy is a very likeable character who is able to do the right thing in the end.

Rating: 5

Positive: At first Savvy lies about her writing experience in order to be on the newspaper but is given the opportunity anyway to prove herself. She seeks God’s guidance on the Advice Column she’s writing and is even able to sneak tidbits of Bible truth into her responses.

Spiritual Elements: Savvy prays to God for wisdom, and she uses the Bible as a guide for writing her articles.

Violence: none

Language: none

Sexual Content: none

Other: none

Recommendation: I would recommend this book as a fun, light read. Even though Savvy’s character is older, I think younger children would still be able to identify with her and enjoy the book. I recommend ages 10 and up.

As Easy as Falling Off the Face of the Earth

2010-09-13T17:52:00.002-05:00

By Reviewer: Dianne
Title: As Easy as Falling Off the Face of the Earth
Author: Lynne Rae Perkins
Primary Audience/age group: Middle school and up
Genre: Realistic Fiction
# Of pages: 352
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series? No
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: Murphy’s Law: Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. This pretty much sums up the start of 16-year-old Ry’s summer. As Ry is on a train heading for a summer camp program in the middle of the Montana wilderness, he comes across an unopened envelope from the camp marked “Urgent” which he had simply stuck in his luggage and forgotten. Upon opening it, he finds that summer camp has been cancelled. He tries to call his grandfather who is dog sitting in their new home in Wisconsin while his parents go off on a Caribbean vacation. Of course there is no reception on the train, so when a mechanical problem delays the train he steps off to see if he can get through to him. As he seeks a spot where he might be able to make the call, he notices that the train appears to be moving…and indeed it is, leaving him in who-knows-where Montana. One catastrophe after another ensues with virtually every character (even the dogs) in this novel, leaving the reader somewhat breathless, and highly entertained. Will Ry ever be reunited again with his family?

Review: This book was fun to read. The point of view changes as we follow our hero through his wild adventure across the United States and to the Caribbean. Even his dogs put in their two cents worth... but the dog version of what is going on is done in pictures. (What? You thought dogs could read and write??) Although the coincidences in the story are totally unbelievable, it doesn’t make you shake you head in disbelief and toss the book aside. It’s way too entertaining for that.

Rating: 4 for mild language

Positive: Ry learns a lot from his rescuer, Del. Del tends to be the white knight that comes to the rescue whenever needed and will literally give you the shirt off his back. He is not afraid to work with his hands and displays an optimistic attitude about pretty much everything. Ry picks up on this and by the end has found satisfaction in helping out wherever he can. It’s a good lesson in “love your neighbor”.

Spiritual Elements: None

Violence: None

Language: There were some mild language issues in this book.

Sexual Content: None

Other: None

Recommendation: Even though Ry was 16 years old, I would not hesitate to recommend it to middle school and up.

Mockingjay

2010-09-08T16:42:00.001-05:00

Reviewed by: Rachel

Title: Mockingjay

Author: Suzanne Collins

Primary Audience/age group: 12 and up

Genre: Science Fiction

# Of pages: 398

Publisher: Scholastic
Year of Release: 2010
Part of a Series?: 3 out of 3 the Hunger Games Series
Rating: 2 (View Scale)
Recommend? No

Review of Hunger Games (Book 1) and Catching Fire (Book 2)

Description: After surviving the Hunger Games twice, Katniss takes part in a rebellion against the Capitol and becomes “The Mockingjay” the symbol of the uprising. She struggles as she tries to unite the districts and give them the passion they need to fight no matter what the circumstance. With every step things get harder, people get hurt and die, and she starts to lose hope, beginning to ask herself if the rebels can really bring down the Capitol.

Review: The first two books captured my interest, and I couldn’t stop reading them. This book, however, was really slow and was about one thing- war. Either they were talking about war strategy or they were in war. Katniss ends up in the hospital so many times that after her first four visits the reader just hopes that she will stay in there because she is going to end up back in a hospital bed anyway. It wasn’t like the first two books at all, and I have to say I was really disappointed at the lack of Peeta- Katniss moments.

Rating: 2 for violence

Positive: Katniss loves her family and her friends and they are willing to do anything for each other. District two doesn’t join the rebellion at first and a few people just want to blow them up but Katniss refuses, telling them there has to be some other way. She cares about human life, and doesn’t want unnecessary losses.

Spiritual Elements: none.

Violence: Unlike the first book where Collins keeps the violence to a minimum, there is a great amount in The Mockingjay. People are decapitated, burned alive, stabbed and shot… oh and blown up. A bunch of planes come by and bomb a hospital full of men, women, and children. They all die. President Snow uses hundreds of children as a human shields. Without any hesitation, the rebels blow up the children and Collins says that the streets are littered with human body parts and blood. Many people are tortured. The book doesn’t describe this in detail, but we know that one girl was soaked and then they would pulse electrical charges through her body. They also torture one boy by cutting off his fingers and toes. At one point a characters legs are blown off, and he dies soaked in his own blood. Katniss is so depressed that a couple of times she contemplates suicide. At one point she even makes an attempt to kill herself.

Language: none

Sexual Content: There is a little bit of kissing, but not as much as in the other books. It is said that after the Hunger Games, if the winner is good looking, the Capitol would sell “their bodies” to people. Finnick admit that this is what happened to him.

Other: Haymitch is still a drunk and at one point drinks himself unconscious.

Recommendation: I do not recommend this book. There were parts were I grimaced at the violence. Of course war is violent, but Collins doesn’t try to save us from the gore like in the other books. Spoiler: It was very depressing and so many of the characters died that you are sad by the time you are done reading it.

Earth Is Not Alone

2010-08-31T12:45:00.005-05:00

Reviewed By: Angi
Title: Earth Is Not Alone
Author: John Knapp II
Primary Audience/age group: Ages 13+
Genre: Science Fiction
# Of pages: 500
Publisher: Ephemeron Press
Year of Release: 2009
Part of a Series? Yes, part of The Emryss Chronicles
Rating: 5 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes

Description: After a terrible tragedy, a parent-teacher-student confrontation leads to the discovery of two new worlds. This occurs in the "Susquehanna Territory" in northeastern PA in a future time in the 21st century when EMP has mysteriously destroyed all electrical power--presumably worldwide. To survive, with circumstances much better in a rural area, a "wall" has been built to keep away outsiders as mayhem occurs everywhere. There's a strong suspicion of some encounter with another world. Atheistic honor vies against Christian honor in the P-T-S confrontation, and the role Christian faith plays, and the "missionary" responsibility (if any is appropriate) has to be carefully considered. Curious old stories must be investigated and set alongside the Bible. Several young romances occur, and life-and-death decisions can't be avoided. The possibility of a one-way trip to another world looms. If you could go, would you? And what would you say? What would you do? Such affect the choices that two high school seniors must make.

Review: I love the premise of this book, EMP destroys life as we know it and life goes on in a much different way. Earth Is Not Alone is a clean read for teens and adults who like science fiction and stories of other worlds, or the possibility there of. There is much to consider when reading the story and possibilities are far-fetched, but being science fiction – I find it allowable and thought provoking.

Rating: 5

Positive: Good morals and Christian ideals are promoted throughout the book.

Spiritual Elements: The author is a Christian whose desire is that you daily read the Bible and follow God in every part of your life. Jesus as God’s Son is spoken about frequently and a few of the main characters try to get one skeptic to take a step of faith and believe.

Violence: None

Language: None

Sexual Content: None

Recommendation: Earth Is Not alone is an interesting and clean book that I can recommend to all readers. I feel that it is better suited, due to the complexity of the material to those 13 and older. It is a creative book and was very interesting and full of adventure. However, I did not particularly enjoy the authors writing style. I found it to bogged down with excessive details, choppy writing going back and forth from back story to current time often, with the author even having to write notes to the reader to explain what is going on.

Saffy's Angel

2010-08-28T11:20:00.002-05:00

Reviewed by: Emily, 16
Title: Saffy's Angel
Author: Hilary McKay
Primary Audience/age group: 8-12
Genre: realistic fiction
# Of pages: 152
Publisher: Aladdin Paperbacks
Year of Release: 2003
Part of a Series?: yes (but it can stand alone)
Rating: 4 (View Scale)
Recommend? Yes, but with reservations

Description: The Casson children, Caddy, Saffy, Indigo, and Rose, live a exciting, somewhat eccentric life with their artist parents. When Saffy (the third Casson) makes a startling discovery, her life is changed. She feels lost, unsure of whom she is. After the death of her grandfather, who she was very close to, Saffy, with the help of her new friend Sarah, sets out to find "her angel" Grandad left her in his will. On her quest for her angel, Saffy also finds herself.

Review: I loved reading this book. The characters are endearing and kept me laughing throughout the book. The story flows well and keeps the reader interested. Overall, I thought it was excellently written and an enjoyable read.

Rating: 4

Positive: Family is portrayed as very important in the book. Caddy, Indigo, and Rose are supportive of their brothers and sisters always encouraging, helping, and looking out for each other. Many of the characters go to great lengths to help one another. Saffyís friend, Sarah and her family try not to be limited by Sarah's physical disability. Indigo courageously attempts to overcome his fears. Caddy starts to take school seriously and works very hard.

Spiritual Elements: Spirituality is at a minimum. Saffy is on a search for her mysterious angel, left to her by her grandfather. Her mother suggests it could be a real angel, her guardian angel. One character mentions that someone told her squirrels go to heaven. A funeral is held in a church.

Violence: Mild. Most of the violence in the book comes from Caddy, who is struggling with learning how to drive. Saffy is also run over by a wheel chair, but is not seriously injured. Saffy throws sandwiches at a taxi. Small arguments provide the only other violent content.

Language: One use of "Crikey" (euphemism for Christ)

Sexual Content: Saffy's 18 year old sister Caddy and Caddy's driving instructor are romantically attracted to each other. Their relationship never gets physical. They don't go beyond calling each other "darling" and Michael admiring Caddy's looks. However, it is mentioned that Caddy buys a very tight and very, very short dress to wear to her driving lessons. Briefly touched on is the fact that no one knows who one of the character's father is, implying an inappropriate relationship. Another character's father teaches them to play an inappropriate game involving rating backsides on a scale from one to ten, but this game is labeled as inappropriate in the text.

Other: I greatly enjoyed reading this book and recommend it, with some reservations. While a beautifully written and hilarious book with a number of positive themes, Saffy's Angel has two major drawbacks. The character of Saffy's father loves his family, but is portrayed as somewhat insensitive and often absent. Additionally, deception is common amongst the characters, mostly the children, but also some of the adults. This deception is not always marked as a wrong. These issues are subtle (younger readers may not pick up on some of them), but they are there. (In some of the books companion novels, the negative themes are more obvious). Although it is recommended for 8-12 year olds, I think it can be enjoyed by, and indeed may be more appropriate for children on the higher end of this age group, as well as teenagers.

Three Rivers Rising: A Novel of the Johnstown Flood

2010-08-16T16:15:00.001-05:00

By Reviewer: Dianne

Title: Three Rivers Rising: A Novel of the Johnstown Flood

Author: Jame Richards

Primary Audience/age group: Middle School + up

Genre: Historical Fiction

# Of pages: 289

Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf

Year of Release: 2010

Part of a Series? No

Rating: 4 (View Scale)

Recommend? Yes!

Description: (From the book cover) Sixteen-year-old Celestia vacations with her family at the elite resort at Lake Conemaugh, a shimmering Allegheny Mountain reservoir held in place by an earthen dam. Tired of the superficial cheer and sly judgments of the society crowd, she much prefers to swim and fish with Peter, the hotel’s hired boy. It’s a friendship she must keep secret - her parents would never approve- and when companionship turns to romance, it’s a love that could get Celestia disowned.

These affairs of the heart become all the more wrenching on a single, tragic day in May, 1889. After days of heavy rain, the dam fails, unleashing twenty million tons of water onto Johnstown, Pennsylvania, in the valley below – the town where Peter lives with his father.

Told by multiple narrators, Jame Richards’s searing novel in poems explores a cross-class romance, the random hand of disaster, and a tragic and indelible event in American history.

Review: This is a gem of a book. Written in verse, this historical fiction captures the feeling of the times as well as the emotions of the characters. I came to care about each and every one of them.

High society tended to be a snobbish lot and spent a lot of time looking down their noses at anyone that did not have the credentials and deportment that they deemed necessary to fit into their social class. Thus Celestia’s family was on the lower fringe of their acceptable list, and was always susceptible to gossip mongering and condescending looks. Celestia compounded the problem by not caring about being accepted into their clique. She found the company of Peter, a hired hand at the South Fork Hunting and Fishing Club, much more intriguing than the members of polite society that regularly vacationed there. A romance ensues that is promptly nipped in the bud by her parents, but not before tongues start wagging. A greater tragedy tears this family apart and yet brings it closer as a failing dam wreaks a disaster of devastating proportions on an unsuspecting valley below.

Rating: 4

Positive: Although Celestia’s family appears to be solely interested in maintaining outward appearances, it becomes evident that the welfare of their daughters is really the most important consideration in their lives. Celestia has a deep love for her sister, even though they are very different.

The folks in the valley are hard working, family loving characters that go out of their way to lend a helping hand to others.

Spiritual Elements: None

Violence: The violence in this book is that wrought by the flood.

Language: None

Sexual Content: Celestia’s sister, Estrella becomes pregnant by a high society scoundrel who frequents the South Fork Hunting and Fishing Club. There is no elaboration of their relationship, but her pregnancy is an integral part of the story.

Other: Whiskey is mentioned in passing.

Recommendation: This book was a gentle and fascinating look at a difficult time, intertwined with a winning romance story. I would recommend it to any fan of historical fiction, especially if you are also a fan of poetry. It is entirely appropriate for middle school and up. 12+