OK, one night a few weeks ago I went through ALA's list of the top books of last year (young adult books specifically). If you're looking for a good listing of books check them out at ala.org. I put a number of the books on hold at my local library and have been pleasantly surprised by a few. You might not like these young adult "coming of age" types, but I bet there's something on that list for you.
One book I finished last week (came out last year): "Sweethearts" by Sara Zarr. I'd definitely pick it up at the library if you want a quick read. But it's not quite as light-hearted as the title might depict. There wasn't one character in the book that I didn't like (except the ones you're not supposed to like, obviously), and in fact, the step-father ended up being one of my favorite father-characters in all the books I've read this year.
The second book I'd recommend reading was the Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature, for good reason. I finished it last night: "Jellicoe Road" by Melina Marchetta from 2006. A little bit of mystery, a tradgedy, a serial killer, some humor, all told through a tough, honest narrator with a lot of Australian lingo that mix into one great read. (Marchetta is Australian.) She'll keep you guessing until the end and the stories of the characters are going to be with me for a long time.
PS Have you read "The Hunger Games" yet? My favorite scene: when she yells "Peeta!" from the tree. You'll know when you've read it. What are you waiting for?
1 comment:
I want to read Jellico Road now! Justin gave me a Vietnam book that I am working on though... perhaps in a month or so! Fun to read the reviews!
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