Juvenile Fiction
Selected by Janet Kreason, Head of Youth Services.
Scheduled to be published in the Times Union on 12/2006.
| Title: The Sea of Monsters Author: Riordan, Rick Publisher: Hyperion 2006 Ages 11-14 Someone has poisoned the tree which forms part of the magical defenses for Camp Half-Blood, the only safe place on earth for children of Greek gods and mortals. Several teen campers embark on a dual quest: to retrieve the Golden Fleece which will heal the tree and to rescue a friend held captive by the Cyclops guarding the Fleece. Nonstop action, plenty of humor, and the clever weaving of mythological beings into contemporary life will keep readers turning the pages. |
| Title: Clementine Author: Pennypacker, Sara Publisher: Hyperion 2006 Ages 7-10 Irrepressible eight-year-old Clementine is always paying attention, but it’s often to something interesting which stimulates her vivid imagination instead of to what exasperated adults want her to consider. When she impulsively makes a variety of ill-conceived attempts to help her friend Margaret cope with a disastrous haircut, Clementine gets in so much trouble that she is certain her parents plan to give her away. With some thought and guidance, however, Clementine’s creative, active nature not only helps her make things right but enables her father to solve a problem in this laugh-out-loud tale of a loving family. |
| Title: Fairest Author: Levine, Gail Carson Publisher: HarperCollins 2006 Ages 11-14 Homely Aza is unwillingly compelled to use her exceptional singing voice to further the schemes of beautiful, treacherous new Queen Ivi. Aza’s growing attraction to lively Prince Ijori and her thirst for beauty lead her into both more peril and a greater understanding of herself. Levine spins elements of Snow White into a satisfying fairy tale novel set in an intriguing realm of music and magic where appearances can be dangerously deceiving. |
| Title: Grandfather's Dance Author: MacLachlan, Patricia Publisher: Philomel 2006 Ages 8-11 In this conclusion to the Sarah, Plain and Tall series, the Witting family gathers from afar to celebrate Anna’s prairie wedding. Fourth-grade Cassie observes and ponders the joys of this event as well as the deep sorrow over the loss of her beloved grandfather. MacLachlan’s trademark spare, resonant prose and dialogue perfectly portray the enduring power and comfort of love and memory through all of life’s changes. |
| Title: Martin Bridge, Blazing Ahead Author: Kerrim, Jessica Scott Publisher: Kids Can 2006 Ages 7-10 A pair of realistic episodes penned with understanding and humor makes appealing fare for beginning chapter book readers. Martin enjoys all the outdoor activities during a weekend at Camp Kitchywahoo with the other Junior Badgers, but must be vigilant against his prankster friend Alex’s attempts to slime him. Back home, Martin has to cope with frustrations over ongoing repairs to the family’s ancient lawn mower, and slowly begins to understand his father’s viewpoint about it. |