Other Words for Love by Lorraine Zago Rosenthal

Title: Other Words for Love
Author: Lorraine Zago Rosenthal
Pages: 368
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: January 11, 2011
Source: ARC from Publisher for Review
Official TUBL Rating: A

When an unexpected inheritance enables Ari to transfer to an elite Manhattan prep school, she makes a wealthy new friend, Leigh. Leigh introduces Ari to the glamorous side of New York--and to her gorgeous cousin, Blake. Ari doesn't think she stands a chance, but amazingly, Blake asks her out. As their romance heats up, they find themselves involved in an intense, consuming relationship. Ari's family worries that she is losing touch with the important things in life, like family, hard work, and planning for the future.

When misfortune befalls Blake's family, he pulls away, and Ari's world drains of color. As she struggles to get over the breakup, Ari must finally ask herself: were their feelings true love . . . or something else?

Emotionally-unrestrained and striking, Other Words for Love is a stunning, provocative take on an ordinary life filled with heartbreak, angst, and love. Set in New York, the poetically beautiful descriptions submerse the readers in such atmospheric awe. In contrast, the harboring issues and drama that faces Ari is the pensive, somber balance to the stunning backdrop of New York. Rosenthal tackles issues of first love and family in a striking, moving tale of understanding and acceptance.

From the very beginning, Ari's character has an air of maturity and caution around her. Her feelings elicit very powerful and very real emotions from the reader through her almost-lyrical narration. Her naiveness give readers fresh insight into an explosive first relationship and a borderline-obsessive first crush; with all of the tumultuous emotion flying off each page.

Different from other contemporary YA novels, Other Words for Love explores different types of love: familial, romantic, and friendly; all of which bring issues that drives the plot in key places. The effortless, evocative prose highlights these issues and ultimately plunges the reader into the broken, but nonetheless beautiful world of Ari.

Other Words for Love is to be put simply; beautiful and bittersweet. It's a poignant, coming-of-age novel that has an element of utter relatability and authenticity that will stay in readers' hearts for many years to come.

The Bottom Line: I loved it. I really did.

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Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Title: Shatter Me (Book 1)
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Pages: 352
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: November 15, 2011
Source: ARC from Publisher for Review
Official TUBL Rating: A+

Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days. The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old-girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

Poignant, real, and beautifully descriptive, Shatter Me pulls hard on every single heart-string and oozes depth and unparalleled adventure. The world of Shatter Me is part dystopian and part paranormal; but nonetheless brutal and gritty. Mafi contrives a harsh, atmospheric beauty when describing Juliette's world. Readers will be lulled into an intricate road of deception and unpredictability with Mafi's powerful, magnetic prose. Shatter Me is beautiful as it is painfully evocative.

From the very first chapter, Juliette's true essence of imprisonment and longing is infused with the tone of the novel. The jagged descriptions and the strike-throughs make Juliette seem all the more real. Every word carries a heavy weight and holds a larger impact. Juliette's perspective of the ruthless environment that cages her heart is so genuine and real. The strike-throughs lessen as the book goes on; adding a callous and raw factor to her character.

The passion in Shatter Me is truly tangible. The tensions and attraction between Juliette and Adam is electrifying from the very beginning. Because the novel is set against a seemingly hopeless backdrop, the romance between Juliette and Adam is the light in the cruel reality they live in. Even though the romance is a large part of Shatter Me, it doesn't dominate the plot.

Mafi's prose in Shatter Me is completely unrivaled. The distorting reality that she manages to make hopeful and the beautiful imagery she manages to make raw and disturbing. The metaphors used in Mafi's novel only amplifies the beauty of her writing. The element of unpredictability always harbors in the book. And as Juliette and Adam teeter on the edge of survival, so does the reader.

The Bottom Line: Shatter Me blew me away from the very first page. It's a tumultuous journey that I did not regret on going. Juliette, Adam, James, and even Warner are characters in their own right; good or evil. There's a lot of gray area, and that made Shatter Me even better. There are no words to express the ordeal that I've just gone through. No words for reading a book as amazing and unparalleled as Shatter Me. Tahereh Mafi has a new lifelong fan (or stalker =D).

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Born At Midnight by C.C. Hunter

Title: Born at Midnight (Book 1)
Author: C.C. Hunter
Pages: 416
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Publication Date: March 29, 2011

One night Kylie Galen finds herself at the wrong party, with the wrong people, and it changes her life forever. Her mother ships her off to Shadow Falls—a camp for troubled teens, and within hours of arriving, it becomes painfully clear that her fellow campers aren’t just “troubled.” Here at Shadow Falls, vampires, werewolves, shapshifters, witches and fairies train side by side—learning to harness their powers, control their magic and live in the normal world.

Kylie’s never felt normal, but surely she doesn’t belong here with a bunch of paranormal freaks either. Or does she? They insist Kylie is one of them, and that she was brought here for a reason. As if life wasn’t complicated enough, enter Derek and Lucas. Derek’s a half-fae who’s determined to be her boyfriend, and Lucas is a smokin’ hot werewolf with whom Kylie shares a secret past. Both Derek and Lucas couldn’t be more different, but they both have a powerful hold on her heart.

Even though Kylie feels deeply uncertain about everything, one thing is becoming painfully clear—Shadow Falls is exactly where she belongs…

Rapt with distinctive characters derived from common beings that are encountered in paranormal YA, Born at Midnight creates a paranormal atmosphere of discovery and compassion. In real life, everybody faces a point in their life where they find who they really are, but in Born at Midnight, Kylie has to find out who she is, and what she really is. Hunter fearlessly delves into the inner psyche of a not-so-regular teenager and forges a tangible ambiance that effortlessly envelops the otherworldly environment.

At the beginning, Kylie starts out with a shy, quiet base for a character, but Kylie slowly transforms throughout the novel to a girl who can truly stand up for herself. She's rational and compassionate, but she's at the liminal age where she needs to deal with different coming-of-age issues; which includes finding out what she really is. Kylie is a strong, tenacious protagonist with a loyal and determined personality. Her journey to self discovery is filled with forged friendships and relationships that prove to be genuine and reliable. Hunter makes readers probe deeper into the emotional angst and actually feel it. The friendships and the unyielding love triangle lights the whole book up fire and passion.

Choices and decision-making is a concept very much explored throughout Born at Midnight. The pacing matches the constant flow of decisions and Kylie's gradual change. And the consistent mystery of what she really is, keeps the reader in suspense and anxious to read on. Born at Midnight is a great start to the Shadow Falls series and sets the characters and the atmosphere flawlessly to transition to the second book, where I'm sure more questions will be answered, and many more that will arise.

Born at Midnight is an evenly-paced, descriptive coming-of-age story that holds nothing back. Its otherworldly environment sustains a well-rounded cast of characters and well-developed bonds that emanate a sense of safety and at the same time holds an air of suspense. The intricate weaving of paranormal aspects and realism, is flawlessly executed by Hunter.

The Bottom Line: I loved the characters, especially Kylie. I'm in awe of C.C.'s writing style and character development. I can't wait to read the next one!

---Field Report---
Originality: 8/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 9/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 95/100 (A+)

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The Lipstick Laws by Amy Holder

Title: Lipstick Laws
Author: Amy Holder
Pages: 240
Publisher: Graphia
Publication Date: April 4, 2011

At Penford High School, Britney Taylor is the queen bee. She dates whomever she likes, rules over her inner circle of friends like Genghis Khan, and can ruin anyone's life with a snap of perfectly manicured fingers. Just ask the unfortunate few who have crossed her. For April Bowers, Britney is also the answer to her prayers. April is so unpopular, kids don't even know she exists. But one lunch spent at Britney's table, and April is basking in the glow of popularity. But Britney's friendship comes with a high price tag. How much is April willing to pay?

Just like the average high school, Penford High has its own cliques...and its own set of mean girls. The queen? Britney Taylor. April Bowers is the complete opposite. Barely anybody knows she exists. But when Britney notices her one fateful day, April is sucked in to a world of superficiality. Sure, April's popular now, but Britney has plans that April has to refuse.

The Lipstick Laws provides readers with an entertaining, appealing look into high school life. Though it portrays a lackluster, exaggerated version of high school, readers are able to grasp the complexities of friendship and choices in this novel. The Lipstick Laws is a charming, light read, but its concepts and ideas aren't as original, making it a little forgettable. The conflicts in this novel are often seen throughout the young adult genre and the outcomes are somewhat predictable.

One of the better aspects of this novel are the characters. Although most fall into their respective stereotypes, characters such as April and her fellow 'Lipstick Lawbreakers'. April's transformation is even more pronounces as she changes from a weak, push-over follower to an independent, strong person who stands up for herself. The 'Lipstick Lawbreakers' all bring life and hilarity to the novel as well as balance out the ditzy, typical queen bee Britney Taylor. The pranks that they play on Britney are extremely funny.

Holder's writing flows smoothly, although at times cliché. April's narration is captured flawlessly as an outsider. Her insecurities and worries are really seep into Holder's writing. The atmosphere The Lipstick Laws is unconvincingly-developed because it over-emphasizes popularity and the fabricated concept of the 'Lipstick Laws'.

The Lipstick Laws is a love-hate book. There are times you'll want to laugh out loud and hug the characters, and other times, you'll want to rip their heads off because of their stereotypes. It effectively portrays friendship and the idea of insecurities, but it also stays a rather generic, typical Mean Girls meets The Clique. A good debut, but not a great one.

The Bottom Line: I've already seen a lot of books like this, but this book made me LOL my heart out! It's just a matter of laying low with too many stereotypes. Forgettable, but still a light, fun read.

---Field Report---
Originality: 5/10
Ending: 7/10
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 6/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 8/10
Theme: 7/10
Imagery: 7/10
Setting: 4/5
Voice: 4/5
Style: 4/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 9/10
Total Score: 73/100 (B-)

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Matched by Ally Condie

Title: Matched (Book 1)
Author: Ally Condie
Pages: 384

Publisher: Dutton Juvenile

Publication Date: November 30, 2010

In the Society, Officials decide. Who you love. Where you work. When you die. Cassia has always trusted their choices. It’s barely any price to pay for a long life, the perfect job, the ideal mate. So when her best friend appears on the Matching screen, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is the one . . . until she sees another face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black. Now Cassia is faced with impossible choices: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she’s known and a path no one else has ever dared follow—between perfection and passion.

Matched is an avid, subtly intense dystopian novel with three-dimensional characters, accentuated by the descriptive, oppressed world Condie has created. The constricted, and caged atmosphere present all throughout Matched is deceptive and unsettling with the plethora of rules, systems, and restrictions. The cover of Matched holds a symbolic significance wherein Cassia, is confined in a bubble of ignorance and negligence, yearning for an escape for freedom. The vivid depictions of the world with the Society are contemplative, it triggers thought-provoking questions about issues that plague the real world today.

Cassia is mostly confused and doubtful for the most of the novel. Cassia's metamorphosis is gradual and subtly creeping, but drastic and discernible when looked at as a whole. Trustful and submissive towards the Society, Cassia changes and matures as a character amidst the psychologically-unsettling world that Condie has created. The scene where she sees Ky's face on the computer screen is the catalyst that triggers her change, and her interactions with Ky emphasize that change in character. Her mindset is altered into being perplexed and doubtful of the mysteries that surround the society. But all throughout Matched, Cassia stays consistent to her character.

Ky and Xander are clashing opposites with contrasting personalities. Although Xander is competitive, he embodies a strong presence of understanding, loyalty, and strength. And at the same time, he remains supportive towards Cassia, despite her actions. Ky, on the other hand is brave and adventurous, willing to try new things. His past affects him, and the hardships he has gone through, is evident in the way he carries himself. Both love interests are different and good for Cassia in different ways.

Condie's prose in Matched has a subtle lyrical undertone with a rich, mysterious undercurrent. The culture in the Society is intensely developed and established flawlessly through nuances and other specifics. The subtleties such as the lack of choices, no matter how insignificant, are what builds the Condie's world and strengthens it. And the interplay of interactions, the atmosphere, and the characters all pull together to create a stunning, concrete plot.

Matched is a powerful, compelling read, amplified by the themes and inner messages in the story. It parallels itself both to the real world in a futuristic sense. Oppression and lack of freedom is common in Matched, and in reality; but here, it is presented in different ways. Matched is a perfect match for every reader (pun intended!).

The Bottom Line: Matched is probably my favorite in dystopian lit! It's friggin' amazing!

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 7/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 9/10
Imagery: 9/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 92/100 (A)

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Halo by Alexandra Adornetto

Title: Halo (Book 1)
Author: Alexandra Adornetto
Pages: 496

Publisher: Feiwel & Friends

Publication Date: August 31, 2010

Nothing much happens in the sleepy town of Venus Cove. But everything changes when three angels are sent from heaven to protect the town against the gathering forces of darkness: Gabriel, the warrior; Ivy, the healer; and Bethany, a teenage girl who is the least experienced of the trio. They work hard to conceal their true identity and, most of all, their wings. But the mission is threatened when the youngest angel, Bethany, is sent to high school and falls in love with the handsome school captain, Xavier Woods. Will she defy the laws of Heaven by loving him? Things come to a head when the angels realize they are not the only supernatural power in Venus Cove. There′s a new kid in town and he′s charming, seductive and deadly. Worst of all, he′s after Beth.

The dark forces are causing many disasters; floods, fires, and generally spreading mishaps around the world. Three angels, Gabriel, Ivy, and Bethany go to Venus Cove to stop the catastrophes happening there. Out of the three, Bethany is the most inexperienced, and the most human. She is torn between her mission and her humanity. In Venus Cove, she experiences friendship, happiness, and falls in love. But the dark forces are gaining ground in Venus Cove, and somebody close to Bethany will betray her.

Halo is a vivid, powerful, and meaningful novel that elicits so much emotion as well as forces the reader to contemplate the religious references made in the novel. Halo's atmospheric difference is perceivable in the contrasting environments of Bethany's house and out of it. Inside Bethany's house, there's almost always an unsettling tension and it embodies a perplexing, complicated mood. Outside, there's a sense of freedom and an impression of limitless possibilities.

Bethany's growth throughout Halo is palpable from her transformation. At the beginning, her personality is naive and afraid; always careful and observant, never forgetting that this is her first mission. But as she befriends other people and gets closer to Xavier, she begins to change. Her yearning to be with Xavier is relatable as Bethany reveals her vulnerabilities and fears as an angel. She becomes more assertive, permissive, and independent, but her true values are genuine and never change.

Despite his guarded exterior, Xavier emanates a very genuine and honest personality from the very beginning. He isn't the cliché hero-type, instead, he's an honorable person with a past that still haunts him. Most of the time, people define others based on their pasts; in this case, the characters make assumptions and form opinions of Xavier with regards to his past. His relationship with Bethany is developed and extremely romantic. Their intense connection is tangible with the way they act towards each other; both depend on each other equally. Their relationship is symbolically sublime and profound.

Ivy and Gabriel (yup! THAT angel), the siblings of Bethany both holds an air of confidence and sophistication, whilst still holding their individual values and characteristics. Gabriel is serious, high-strung, and sometimes quite brooding, but he's caring and his carefully constructed façade of sureness and assurance hides his fears and inner-most vulnerabilities. This conveys his few imperfections. Ivy, although also serious, is more positive and reassuring. As the older sister, she withholds motherly characteristics and plays the role of the guiding, and understanding family member.

In Halo, the concept of differing between good and evil, and right and wrong is elaborately contemplated in different ways. Complete opposites such as heaven and hell, angels and demons, and light and dark, are re-introduced with religious connotations but without being preachy or assertive. The historical aspects in Halo are established in a non-pious, non-platonic way, making for a less religiously-biased read.

With new and old conceptualized ideas, fresh prose, and symbolic, vivid descriptions, Adornetto entices readers with contemporary and original characters and vivid imagery. Halo captures readers with the characters' magnetizing chemistry and the blend of both au courant and old-fashioned views of angels and love. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Halo is a beautifully-woven tale that will definitely persuade readers to look forward to the next installment.

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 7/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 9/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 95/100 (A+)

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The Duff by Kody Keplinger

Title: The Duff
Author: Kody Keplinger
Pages: 288

Publisher: Poppy

Publication Date: September 7, 2010

Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn't think she's the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She's also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her "Duffy," she throws her Coke in his face.

But things aren't so great at home right now. Desperate for a distraction, Bianca ends up kissing Wesley. And likes it. Eager for escape, she throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with Wesley.

Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out that Wesley isn't such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she's falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone.

DUFF = Designated Ugly Fat Friend. DUFF = Bianca Piper...or at least that's what she thinks. When Wesley Rush, playboy extraordinaire, defines that she is a DUFF, it's just one more problem to think about. Her parents' divorce, her dad's leap back into alcohol, and her friendships crumbling are all problems in her life. And when she finds her escape in Wesley, creating a rivals-with-benefits relationship with him, she falls into a web of lies, confusion, and conflict. Has she had enough? Will her life finally crumble to pieces? Or will she realize that love is right there the whole time?

Full of sarcasm, wit, and humor, The Duff ferociously grabs readers with its sharp dialogue, deep insight, and original characters. The gritty reality that Keplinger embeds in The Duff is raw and vivid, completely penetrating the psyche of a teenager; full of angst, drama, and confusion. The concept of perceptions of beauty is unnervingly acknowledged in the novel, confronting problems and issues in current society. Accepting face-value is a another idea that is thoroughly explored in The Duff, amidst the skewed impressions of beauty.

Bianca remains consistent and true to her character through the development of the novel. Her personality is immediately grasped from the very beginning; cynical, sassy, and independent. But underneath her exterior, is a conflicted and confused teenager, using her quips and sharp remarks to hide behind. She is detached and disconnected towards her relationships but her insight give the reader a deep take on the immense scrutiny that teenagers have to deal with in reality. Biana's first-hand narration on her parents' divorce was extremely realistic and vivid, also recognizing alcoholism, and home violence in the process. Bianca's strong backbone is admirable and the snarky humor attached to her provides a balance of fun--in the midst of so much drama--for the reader.

Wesley's character stays strong as well, and his big ego is tangible through his flirty actions and words. The banter between him and Bianca is always clever and interesting. Though he may seem like the ultimate player; disrespectful, and detached--just like Bianca--Keplinger carefully unravels each layer, revealing the secrets and problems he keeps. As his fervent romantic relationship with Bianca turns into more, he starts to doubt what he really wants. His ulterior façade of popularity and perfection hides his familial problems and the inner-battles raging within him.

Loyal, and always reliable, Casey and Jessica are both endearing and hilarious. Casey is always fun-loving and supportive while Jessica is constantly optimistic and uplifting. Casey and Jessica are two completely different people, and yet, the relationship that Keplinger has built between them and Bianca is inspiring and strong. Both three-dimensional characters have their own problems, spotlighting attention on them as well.

With a fresh writing style and edgy characters, Keplinger's tenacious and impactful writing fearlessly explores controversial issues that are still hard-to-grasp today. Keplinger's bona fide prose delves deeper into themes of casual sex, alcohol abuse, violence, and teen-pregnancy without straying from a YA tone, as well as recognizing the consequences. These themes and concepts are introduced and probed tactfully with an authentic teenage mindset.

The Duff is a powerful, realistic, contemporary novel that isn't afraid to push the boundaries of teen life. Based upon the term 'Duff = Designated Ugly Fat Friend', Keplinger writes a book so completely and utterly true. The Duff completely envelopes the reader in an searingly honest take of a journey through heartbreak, love, and friendship.

The Bottom Line: So emotionally-demanding. So relatable. It's called real life.

---Field Report---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 9/10
Imagery: 9/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 9/10
Total Score: 96/100 (A+)

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The Star Shack by Lila Castle

Title: The Star Shack
Author: Lila Castle
Pages: 224

Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire

Publication Date: June 1, 2010

Pete and Annabelle live for their summers together on Gingerbread Beach. They've always believed they were a perfect pair… until junior year, when A...more Pete and Annabelle live for their summers together on Gingerbread Beach. They've always believed they were a perfect pair… until junior year, when Annabelle becomes obsessed with astrology. Now they can hardly stand each other. Pete thinks that Annabelle (a Leo) has become a total flake; Annabelle thinks Pete (a Scorpio) has become an uptight jerk.

When Annabelle dares Pete to open a summer business on the Boardwalk generating personalized horoscopes, their fast-paced, hilarious bickering soon rises to a fever pitch. The he-said/she-said advice of the Star Shack is wildly popular and seems able to fix any relationship problem… except their own.

But when one of Annabelle's star charts helps catch a thief, Pete might have to admit that the stars could really hold the key to the future…and to his own heart.

Pete and Annabelle are meant for each other. Or so they think. When Annabelle becomes obsessed with astrology, Pete starts thinking she's weird and breaks up with her. And since Annabelle knows Pete can't refuse a dare, she dares him to start The Star Shack with her. Too bad it backfires. Soon, Annabelle's fed up of Sarah, Pete, and Gingerbread. She thinks Pete is happy with Sarah, but is he really? Maybe Annabelle and Pete are really meant to be together. Or are they really?

A lighthearted tone, lively characters, and a quaint, yet intimate setting, The Star Shack charms readers with its exceptionally executed split narrative, and lively, quirky supporting characters. Pete and Annabelle's narrative presents both sides of the story and provides the reader with their biased, but nonetheless entertaining take on one another. And although the overall tone of The Star Shack is light, it still embodies deeper emotional turmoil and sentimentality, sustaining a fun, contemplating summer read.

Initially, Pete is perceived as a close-minded jerk but his narration is able to make the reader root for him as well. Pete's baseball obsession as a Boston Sox fan, is significant and sparks plenty of humorous banter with Annabelle and other New York Yankees fans. His internal conflict and pretense stops him from being with Annabelle and his sarcasm and comebacks are defense barriers that keep him detached from her. But as he learns more about astrology, his façade starts to break and he finally starts being true to himself. He finally realizes that Annabelle is really what he wants. His strong narrative truly portrays him as a practical, pensive character despite his faults.

Witty, passionate, and understanding, Annabelle is a well-developed character that emanates a cheerful personality, but is truly sensitive inside. She keeps her emotions well-hidden from the others, but the reader will unequivocally feel her emotions and heartache stirring within her as she struggles with Pete throughout the novel. Her viewpoint is optimistic at first, but as her friendship with Pete dissipates, so does her optimism. And even though their chemistry is palpable from the beginning, both Annabelle and Pete refuse to accept one another.

Astrology and baseball are extremely significant in The Star Shack, the combination of these two very different subjects is connected creatively and tangibly. Here, the idea of astrology is strongly questioned by Pete, and is strongly believed by Annabelle. Both sides are argued well with baseball incorporated into it. Lila Castle smoothly brings controversial topics into this entertaining novel and immediately sparks interest into the subject.

The Star Shack is a balanced, introspective read that makes readers reflect and muse about the subjects presented here. The great chemistry between the characters, the relaxed and easy tone of the book, and the fun concept of astrology and baseball, all pull together to contrive a beautifully written, perfect summer read. (A+)

The Bottom Line: Truly the perfect book for the beach =)

---Field Report---
Originality: 7/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 96/100 (A+)

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The Beautiful Between by Alyssa Sheinmel

Title: The Beautiful Between
Author: Alyssa Sheinmel
Pages: 192
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: May 11, 2010

If high school were a fairy-tale kingdom, Connelly Sternin would be Rapunzel, locked not in a tower by a wicked witch but in a high-rise apartment building by the SATs and college applications—and by the secrets she keeps. Connelly's few friends think that her parents are divorced—but they're not. Connelly's father died when she was two, and she doesn't know how.

If Connelly is the Rapunzel of her school, Jeremy Cole is the crown prince, son of a great and rich New York City family. So when he sits down next to her at lunch one day, Connelly couldn't be more surprised. But Jeremy has a tragic secret of his own, and Connelly is the only one he can turn to for help. Together they form a council of two, helping each other with their homework and sharing secrets. As the pair's friendship grows, Connelly learns that it's the truth, not the secrets, that one must guard and protect. And that between friends, the truth, however harsh, is also beautiful.

Connelly's father's death is a mystery for her and as she is continuously kept in the dark, she chooses to search for answers on her own. She meets Jeremy, her prince charming, but all is not what they appear. He has his own life filled with a tragic secret. Together, they must overcome their problems and finally find their own happiness.

Alyssa Sheinmel writes an evocative story filled with hope, love, friendship, and grief that grasps the concept of death, and familial problems through Sheinmel's consistently beautiful, yet simple prose. In an elitist setting, filled with characters that have money and status, Sheinmel peels out the deep, raw problems of the very wealthy by breaking that façade of unemotional ignorance that elite people seem to have.

Seemingly impervious, Jeremy's secrets are told through his growing friendship with Connelly who also has the mystery of her father's death to deal with. Their relationship is slowly but thoroughly developed and their problems bring them closer to each other as they try to cope and overcome their dilemmas. Both characters are solidified with their unique perceptions and palpable emotions along with significant relationships with themselves and their family and friends.

The concept of fairytale versus reality is reiterated through constant fairytale analogies that gives The Beautiful Between a dream-like tone and captures the essence of the concept of fairytale and reality. It adds a more personal touch to the atmosphere and makes it more compelling and refreshing. Here, the idea of a 'beautiful between' is symbolized as the middle of fantasy and reality; Connelly lives quite a fancy, fairytale-like life, but it is contrasted by her problems that is pulling her into reality as well.

The Beautiful Between is a meaningful, and beautiful book that will touch your heart. The depth of the characters and the gravity of their problems and situations are thoroughly and expertly explained in such a short span of words. The Beautiful Between is a concise, thoughtful read filled with immense clarity and perception that will keep readers pondering and really look at their own 'beautiful between'. A =)

The Bottom Line: A quick read full of many meaningful messages.

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 8/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 8/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 93/100 (A)

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Swoon at Your Own Risk by Sydney Salter

Title: Swoon at Your Own Risk
Author: Sydney Salter
Pages: 360
Publisher: Graphia
Publication Date: April 5, 2010

It’s the summer before senior year and Polly Martin has sworn off boys. Who needs the hurt and confusion? Five recent breakups have left her with an unnatural knowledge of NASCAR, the ultimate hiker’s outfit, a student council position, the sixth highest score on the Donkey Kong machine at the mall, and a summer job at Wild Waves with ex #2 Sawyer Holmes.

Success seems a sure thing when Polly’s grandmother, the syndicated advice columnist, Miss Swoon, moves in for the summer. Polly almost doesn’t mind sharing a room with her little sister, Grace. Think of all the great advice she’ll get!

Everything is going according to plan except... Miss Swoon turns out to be a man-crazy septuagenarian! And then there’s Xander Cooper. If only he wouldn’t keep showing up at Wild Waves with his adorable cousins every afternoon — and what is he writing in that little notebook?

No advice column in the world can prepare Polly for the lessons she learns when she goes on a group camping trip (with three too many ex-boyfriends). Polly is forced to see people for who they are — a blend of good and bad qualities that can’t be reduced to a list or a snappy answer in a Miss Swoon column.

With her past endeavors with boys, Polly realizes she needs a break from boys. But throw in grammy Miss Swoon, hot skater dude Xander, and a trip with her exes, what's a girl to do? Only the granddaughter of Miss Swoon can tell! Ready, set, SPLASH!

Swoon at Your Own Risk is a fun, exuberant read full of growth and self-discovery. Although sometimes cliché and obvious, Swoon at Your Own Risk provokes a light, flowing nostalgia of summertime for the readers. Polly's situations are always laugh-out-loud hilarious and entertaining, keeping the novel bright and flowing.

The best main aspect in Swoon at Your Own Risk is Polly. At first, Polly seems unlikeable, selfish, and annoying, but as she deals with her issues and situations, she transforms into a funny, spunky, and fun character. The diverse spectrum of characters surrounding Polly brings Swoon at Your Own Risk to life and each and every character is special in their own way. Xander's part in Polly's life is extremely predictable, but that doesn't take away much from the plot. He's a cute, sensitive, and deep character. Xander is different from other YA love interests because he shows a more creative and different side of guys.

The tone of Swoon at Your Own Risk is established straight away with Polly's narration. In the beginning, readers may become a little frustrated with Polly's first-person narrative, but that's part of how she grows as a person. As the book progresses, readers will see subtle changes in Polly and her way of thinking, and this ultimately makes her a more down-to-earth character. Her previous experiences with boyfriends makes her fear of taking that leap of faith with Xander and later on, she may or may not overcome it.

Cheery, meaningful, and fun, Swoon at Your Own Risk takes you on a relaxing swim of realization, laughs, and of course, boys! It's perfect to remind you of summer and summer romances...but with a twist of Miss Swoon! A =)

The Bottom Line: Fun, fun, fun!

---Field Report---
Originality: 6/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 93/100 (A)

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The Clearing by Heather Davis

Title: The Clearing
Author: Heather Davis
Pages: 228
Publisher: Graphia
Publication Date: April 12, 2010

Amy, a sixteen-year-old recovering from an abusive relationship, moves to the country to start a new life with her aunt–all she wants is for everything to be different. In the clearing at the back of Aunt Mae’s property, she makes an amazing discovery—Henry, a boy stuck in the endless summer of 1944. Henry and his world become Amy’s refuge and she begins to learn that some moments are worth savoring. But when the past and present come crashing together, both of them must find the courage to face what is meant to be, even if it means losing each other forever.

Recovering from an abusive relationship, Amy goes to her great aunt Mae's house to run from her problems and start anew. When she discovers Henry's life on the other side of the clearing, she is immediately drawn to his world and the inexplicable connection they share. But their relationship might not last; for Henry's situation may be far too complicated to hold their bond. Their hearts are on the line and their feelings for each other are quickly growing. It may be too late to avoid heartache.

The Clearing is a beautiful, bittersweet book that portrays the hardships and obstacles that people like Amy and Henry have to go through, just for love. It focuses on perfectly capturing the essence of love and showing its different sides. The Clearing shows the ups and downs, and also depicts how people can mistake 'infatuation' or 'like' for love.

The concept of The Clearing is extraordinary yet convincing. The idea of the mist in the clearing separating two different times; present and 1944 stands out well and is solidified with the realistic references in the book. The Clearing has a simplistic backdrop that gives the plot a more intimate and rustic feel to it. Readers will be completely interlocked and captivated with the charming countryside where Amy and Henry reside.

Amy's voice as a narrator is clear and concise with a comfortable tone. Amy has been through a lot, and readers will resonate with her feelings and experiences as Amy strives to get over her abusive relationship. Henry, from a completely different time, is a well-established character from the very beginning and yearns for something different...something only Amy can give. Their relationship coincides with Henry's family's developing revelation of the situation they're in and this further complicates things between their boundaries. They won't get all of what they want, but they do get to experience something very valuable; love. Even if their romance is quite rushed, it's easy to overlook that tainting aspect and focus on the subtle and important messages in The Clearing.

Amy's situation is uncommon but the reader will become in tune with her situation because of the normalities that are present in the novel. Amy deals with school, trying to fit in, friends, and family problems just like many other teens today. Henry and his world serves as an escape from her unhappy reality which ultimately elaborates on the concept of reality and fantasy comparison.

Simple, beautiful, and compassionate, The Clearing is full of depth and simple messages that readers may have forgotten. It's reminiscent of quiet summer nights, the lovely countryside, and the slight paranormal tinge. The Clearing is a magical and thought-provoking read that will make readers truly question their morals and beliefs of love. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Breathtaking, simple, and balanced.

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 97/100 (A+)

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The Unwritten Rule by Elizabeth Scott

Title: The Unwritten Rule
Author: Elizabeth Scott
Pages: 224
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: March 16, 2010

Everyone knows the unwritten rule: You don't like your best friend's boyfriend. Sarah has had a crush on Ryan for years. He's easy to talk to, supersmart, and totally gets her. Lately it even seems like he's paying extra attention to her. Everything would be perfect except for two things: Ryan is Brianna's boyfriend, and Brianna is Sarah's best friend. Sarah forces herself to avoid Ryan and tries to convince herself not to like him. She feels so guilty for wanting him, and the last thing she wants is to hurt her best friend. But when she's thrown together with Ryan one night, something happens. It's wonderful...and awful. Sarah is torn apart by guilt, but what she feels is nothing short of addiction, and she can't stop herself from wanting more...

All's fair in love and war. That is and isn't the case here. Sarah liked Ryan first...ever since the eighth grade actually. But that doesn't matter to Brianna, Sarah's best friend. Brianna siddles up to Ryan, works her charm, and captures his attention...at least until he gets a taste of Sarah. But Sara is rational and is all too aware of the unwritten rule; you aren't supposed to like your best friend's boyfriend. As she struggles to deal with her feelings for Ryan, guilt and fear for Brianna's friendship consumes her. What's more is that Brianna's emotionally breaking down because of family-related problems and Sarah is her only lifeboat. When Sarah is given the chance to be with Ryan, will she take that leap of faith? And if she does, what will Sarah think?

Elizabeth Scott weaves a contemporary tale of family, friendship, and romance. The Unwritten Rule is set in such a normal and real environment that readers cannot help but feel empathy towards the characters and their different situations. With such an indifferent topic, Scott evokes so many emotions in the reader and at the same time, forges a connection between the reader and the book.

Sarah is a conflicted over-thinker that teenagers will definitely be able to relate to. She's lost and depends on Brianna as her only source of friendship. Sarah stands behind Brianna's shadow; doing whatever Brianna wants and always putting Brianna first, before herself. But as The Unwritten Rule goes on, her personality becomes more solid and her growth as a person is evident in her strong narration.

The Unwritten Rule revolves around a pretty complex concept that shows the hardships of a teenager in four very important aspects; family, friendship, finding yourself, and love. Elizabeth Scott's pure and simple writing is perfectly blended to mold this beautiful story. The Unwritten Rule is a book that focuses on the drama, heartache, and confusion that is bonded with a teenager's experience. A =)

The Bottom Line: There are exceptions to every rule.

---Report Card---
Originality: 6/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 94/100 (A)

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The Life of Glass by Jillian Cantor

Title: The Life of Glass
Author: Jillian Cantor
Pages: 352
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: February 9, 2010

Before he died, Melissa's father told her about stars. He told her that the brightest stars weren't always the most beautiful—that if people took the time to look at the smaller stars, if they looked with a telescope at the true essence of the star, they would find real beauty. But even though Melissa knows that beauty isn't only skin deep, the people around her don't seem to feel that way. There's her gorgeous sister, Ashley, who will barely acknowledge Melissa at school; there's her best friend, Ryan, who may be falling in love with the sophisticated Courtney; and there's Melissa's mother, who's dating someone new, someone Melissa knows will never be able to replace her father.

To make sure she doesn't lose her father completely, Melissa spends her time trying to piece together the last of his secrets and finishing a journal he began—one about love and relationships and the remarkable ways people find one another. But when tragedy strikes, Melissa has to start living and loving in the present as she realizes that being beautiful on the outside doesn't mean you can't be beautiful on the inside.

Melissa's family is just the opposite of glass. While glass can last for a million years, Melissa's family is already on it's way to completely crumbling and disintegrating. Her life is a complete and utter wreck with the added addition of her friendship troubles and her family issues. Life couldn't get any worse. She's all alone. But as she goes on, she discovers that people can really change.

Poignant, heart-wrenching, and breathtakingly beautiful, The Life of Glass is a touching, contemporary story that explores themes of loss, love, and self-discovery through allegorical metaphors and references that becomes the absolute heart of the novel. The undercurrent of the novel is powerful and subtle at the same time which gives it a more symbolic importance that is rare to perfect and flawlessly achieve. The Life of Glass is an incredibly real and authentic novel in Melissa's point of view. Cantor writes with vivid clarity and maturity through Melissa's first person narrative and draws out the different parts of a teenager's life and completely captures the emotions and the experiences through Melissa's hardships, wisdom, and maturity.

Moments in The Life of Glass are balanced with sad, emotional ones as well as humorous ones. But Cantor delivers each moment with impeccable consistency. The balance in the novel mirrors the balance in real life, making for an even more convincing and realistic read. As The Life of Glass mostly centers around Melissa, the minor characters, although typical as they might be, are never boring or cliché. They're never monotonous or tedious. All of the characters in The Life of Glass are strong and solid. Cantor is consistent with everything!

The Life of Glass is a book that has the power to weave the simplest of things and make them beautiful and emotional. Cantor brings readers back to their teenage years and couples that with the imbued metaphors and powerful writing. The Life of Glass will take more than a million years to decompose. It's truly unforgettable. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Jillian Cantor + Metaphors = Perfect and Unforgettable

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 100/100 (A+) !!!This is one of the SEVEN books that hold the title: The Holy Grail - Beholder of the Perfect 100!!!

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Sea by Heidi R. Kling

Title: Sea
Author: Heidi R. Kling
Pages: 366
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Publication Date: June 10, 2010

Haunted by recurring nightmares since her mother's accidental disappearance over the Indian ocean three years before, fifteen year old California girl Sienna "Sea" Jones reluctantly travels with her father's volunteer team to six months post-tsunami Indonesia. During her stay at the orphanage, she meets scarred and soulful Deni who is more like Sea than anyone she has ever met.

She knows they can't be together, so why can't she stay away from him? And what about her old-best-friend-turned-suddenly-hot Spider who may or may not be waiting for her back home? And why is her psychiatrist father so secretive about her mother's plane crash? The farther she gets from home, the closer she comes to the truth. And Sea's real adventure begins.

Sea is an emotional, and hopeful story that's just like the actual sea; Sea is just as perfect, and just as turbulent as the sea. Heidi R. Kling, with a beautiful and lyrical prose, takes readers on a nose-dive to a world of complete devastation, innocence, and--against all circumstances--hope and love.

Kling will take readers on a complex and vivid journey of grief, loss, and healing. Kling's characters are real and diverse but each character contributes a unique undercurrent to the novel. Indonesia, the setting for most of Sea is also authenticated by the littering of Indonesian words throughout. Some of the flashbacks in Sea happen in California and the comparison between both worlds are shatteringly different. The traditions and the cultural differences are really distinct as the settings alternate, creating a whole new level of really seeing the discrepancy between the two worlds.

The romance in the novel is an interesting aspect because it's hard to pine for either guy; both have their good and bad qualities. Sea has feelings for both Spider and Deni and the chemistry and relationship between Sea and both guys is ultimately sweet, yet pure and real. For me, they are separated into two categories; Spider, the past, and Deni, the present...though who will be the future?

Reading Sea is as unforgettable as watching the sun set into the horizon of the sea. Completely, and utterly perfect. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: I dared to hope. I dared to live. And I dared to love...all in this one book.

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 100/100 (A+) !!!This is one of the FIVE books that hold the title: The Holy Grail - Beholder of the Perfect 100!!!

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Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials by Rosalind Wiseman

Title: Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials
Author: Rosalind Wiseman
Pages: 288
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Publication Date: January 12, 2010

Looking for a new beginning after a terrible mean girl past, Charlie Healey realizes there’s no escaping high school drama.

Charlie Healey thinks Harmony Falls is the beginning of a whole new life. Middle school was brutal. But high school is Charlie’s big chance to start over and stay out of drama, except that on her first day she runs into Will, her ex–best friend, who had moved away. Now a varsity athlete and hotter than Charlie remembered, Will hangs with the crowd running the school. But Charlie doesn’t understand their power until an innocent delivery guy falls victim to a near-deadly hazing prank.

Torn between doing what’s right and her secret feelings for Will, Charlie must decide whether to turn in her very best friend or live with the guilt of knowing what he did.

Laugh-out-loud funny and hilariously entertaining, Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials is a novel that's completely unforgettable. Filled with fun and conflict, Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials also has an engaging and witty narrator whose experiences are similar to that of normal teenagers. Charlie, though a little generic, is a compassionate and reasonable character in the book. Her emotions and experiences aren't dissimilar to other high school teens. She also has her own doubts and insecurities...much like everyone else. This novel is basically just an amplified and exaggerated version of high school wherein Wiseman emphasizes aspects of cliques, bullying, and secrets (crushes!). These aspects--no matter how unpleasant--are a part of truly being in high school.

The special thing about Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials is that Wiseman manages to somehow delve deeper into the actions and emotions of Charlie whilst keeping the book light and entertaining. And steadily throughout the book, you begin to see Charlie and her relationships with her friends change. The romanticism in Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials is chaste and convincing without being hurried.

Rosalind Wiseman, along with Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials, have astounded the YA world with this funny, entertaining book that might be a little generic on the outside, but will make you throw your head and laugh out loud! A =)

The Bottom Line: Cliques + Crushes = Typical High School =)

---Report Card---

Originality: 7/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 9/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 9/10
Imagery: 9/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 91/100 (A)

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Sing Me To Sleep by Angela Morrison

Title: Sing Me To Sleep
Author: Angela Morrison
Pages: 320
Publisher: Razorbill
Publication Date: March 18, 2010 (8 days after my B-bay!)

THE TRANSFORMATION

Beth has always been “The Beast”—that’s what everyone at school calls her because of her awkward height, facial scars, and thick glasses. Beth’s only friend is geeky, golden-haired Scott. That is, until she’s selected to be her choir’s soprano soloist, and receives the makeover that will change her life forever.

THE LOVE AFFAIR

When Beth’s choir travels to Switzerland, she meets Derek: pale, brooding, totally dreamy. Derek’s untethered passion—for music, and for Beth—leaves her breathless. Because in Derek’s eyes? She’s not The Beast, she’s The Beauty.

THE IMPOSSIBLE CHOICE

When Beth comes home, Scott, her best friend in the world, makes a confession that leaves her completely torn. Should she stand by sweet, steady Scott or follow the dangerous, intense new feelings she has for Derek?

THE HEARTBREAK

The closer Beth gets to Derek, the further away he seems. Then Beth discovers that Derek’s been hiding a dark secret from her …one that could shatter everything.

Beth has always been known to be ugly; ever since her dad's first words when she was born: 'Damn, she's ugly'. And to her peers, she's known as 'the Beast'. Everyone calls her that except for Scott, her best friend, who wants to become more than 'just friends'. She finds solace in singing and the choir becomes her sanctuary; a place where she can truly shine with her pure, untainted voice. When she finally takes a risk and showcases her talent, she snags the soprano solo in 'Take Me Home' and gets a whole new makeover. Beth is transformed into 'the Beauty' and even the boys who mock and tease her don't recognize her. But things escalate from there, and soon, her choir goes to Switzerland and that's where she meets Derek; sweet, mysterious, and handsome. He's member of the Primus Amabile Boys choir from Canada. Ever since he heard Beth sing her solo online, he's been waiting to meet her. They hit it off instantly, but Derek is still a mystery to Beth...he's hiding a secret that could destroy them completely...who will Beth choose? Scott? Or Derek?

Sing Me to Sleep is a passionate--yet at the same time--innocent love story that takes happiness, hurt, and loss to a whole new level. Beth's voice is authentic and real, especially with the way she expresses herself through her songwriting. The combination of her narration and the allusive songs ingrained in the novel, makes the emotions in Sing Me to Sleep more powerful and compelling. Singing and songwriting is Beth's passion. When she is still 'the Beast', singing is her escape from the 'ugliness' and instead of letting that discourage her, Beth harnesses her talents to create pure-sounding beauty.

The romance between Derek and Beth is perfect, even though it's rushed because they both need someone to truly love without their secrets, and complicated pasts. The chemistry with both of them is much stronger than it is with Beth and Scott. Scott is cute and supportive of Beth no matter what, but his character is significantly less-developed than Beth and Derek's. Derek puts Beth and his relationship on the line when he chooses not to tell Beth his secret. Readers will be shocked with Beth's discovery and empathize with Derek. When Beth first finds out, she's angry and hurt that Derek doesn't trust her, but then she is devastated and afraid of what will happen to Derek...

The ending of Sing Me to Sleep is simultaneously bittersweet and devastatingly beautiful at the same time. The emotion that Morrison pours through Beth's words and actions is so intensely powerful and strong that readers will laugh, cry, and smile all at once. Sing Me to Sleep is a hopeful and touching look on how precious love--and life--is. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Heartbreaking. Emotional. Breathtaking. Morrison has done it again.

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 100/100 (A+) !!!This is one of the FOUR books that hold the title: The Holy Grail - Beholder of the Perfect 100!!!

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Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran

Title: Cleopatra's Daughter
Author: Michelle Moran
Pages: 448
Publisher: Crown

Publication Date: September 15, 2009

The marriage of Marc Antony and Cleopatra is one of the greatest love stories of all time, a tale of unbridled passion with earth-shaking political consequences. Feared and hunted by the powers in Rome, the lovers choose to die by their own hands as the triumphant armies of Antony’s vengeful rival, Octavian, sweep into Egypt. Their three orphaned children are taken in chains to Rome, but only two—the ten-year-old twins Selene and Alexander—survive the journey. Delivered to the household of Octavian’s sister, the siblings cling to each other and to the hope that they will return one day to their rightful place on the throne of Egypt. As they come of age, they are buffeted by the personal ambitions of Octavian’s family and court, by the ever-present threat of slave rebellion, and by the longings and desires deep within their own hearts.

The fateful tale of Selene and Alexander is brought brilliantly to life in Cleopatra’s Daughter. Recounted in Selene’s youthful and engaging voice, it introduces a compelling cast of historical characters.

Selene has lost everything; her parents, her kingdom, and her brother. Octavian brings her and her twin, Alexander from Egypt to Rome and provides them with enough adventure to last a lifetime. Selene struggles to stay and behave as she is introduced to rebellion, first love, and the great empire of Imperial Rome. She goes through many sufferings, but will she ultimately overcome them all?

Woven with immense clarity and diversity, Michelle Moran writes a novel full of rich history and adventure. Selene's narrative is mature and original. Her character is solid from the very start and only grew as the novel progressed. And unlike many other protagonists, Selene is headstrong and knows what she wants.

The mystery in Cleopatra's Daughter is captivating and suspenseful. The Red Eagle is rebellious and nobody can catch him. Selene admires him and doesn't know that he's actually closer to her than she thinks...

Architecture and art plays a big role in Cleopatra's Daughter. It is described vividly and beautifully. Selene finds solace in her work and defies tradition and insists in doing what she loves. She never gives up as people try to stop her from achieving her goals. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Cleopatra's Daughter is the perfect historical fiction read. It's full of suspense, mystery, and, of course, romance. The ending is my favorite; it's sweet and completely unpredictable! Just like the book!

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9.5/10
Theme: 9.5/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 8/10
Total Score: 96/100 (A+)

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Just Listen by Sarah Dessen

Title: Just Listen
Author: Sarah Dessen
Pages: 400
Publisher: Speak
Publication Date: February 28, 2008

Last year, Annabel was "the girl who has everything"--at least that's the part she played in the television commercial for Kopf 's Department Store.This year, she's the girl who has nothing: no best friend because mean-but-exciting Sophie dropped her, no peace at home since her older sister became anorexic, and no one to sit with at lunch. Until she meets Owen Armstrong. Tall, dark, and music-obsessed, Owen is a reformed bad boy with a commitment to truth-telling. With Owen's help,maybe Annabel can face what happened the night she and Sophie stopped being friends.

Nobody knows. Anabelle Greene never told what happened that night. She never talks about it...ever. She doesn't talk about wanting to quit modeling either, or her sister's eating disorder. Everyone thinks she's perfect. And everyone thinks she hooked up with Will, Sophie's boyfriend. After a summer of loneliness and depression, she faces hell; otherwise known high school. Rumors flare and whispers float around. She has this to deal with along with her already-crumbling family. Everything changes when she meets Owen, an honest to goodness bad boy obsessed with 'music enlightenment'. As they become friends, Anabelle starts telling the truth, and standing up for herself. Will she ever have the courage to once again tell the truth? And will she be brave enough to finally open her heart?

Just Listen is a waterfall of cascading emotions; never receding. Dessen brings out a lot of poignant feelings throughout the book. Anabelle is a mature protagonist that has to deal with a lot of things she sometimes isn't ready for yet. The reality that Dessen creates, is real and definitely not sugar-coated. You're able to see what really happens and how a teenager like Anabelle reacts and deals with everything. Owen is one of those brooding guys in a novel. He's a distinct and realistic character that doesn't care what others think. Little by little you get to know him and put everything together to create a strong and individual characterization of Owen. He is definitely one of my favorite so-called bad boys!

The glass house is an aspect of the book that is particularly significant. It's mentioned a few times and really seeps into the reader's head. One of my favorite quotes from the book is "Pretending everything was just fine, and from the outside, I was sure it at least looked that way...what we appeared to be-the five of us, a happy family, sharing a meal in our glass house--to anyone in a car passing on the road outside, looking in." The glass house is a sort of façade or pretense here. The book itself is also multi-layered, with lots of subtle, underlying messages. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Just Listen is mostly family-related with a little sprinkle of sweet, meaningful romance. It's a book that a lot of people will be able to relate to, and learn from. It's an emotional, touching, and beautiful read that you will want to read (or hear) over and over again...just like your favorite song. So just read. Just Listen.

---Report Card---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 99/100 (A+)

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