Jillicious Reading: The Neptune Project

The Neptune Project
by Polly Holyoke 

Summary: In one terrifying day, Nere discovers that she is a product of a scientific experiment and is meant to live the rest of her life in the ocean. Nere, and the others like her from the Neptune Project, were genetically engineered to leave the land, oppressive government control, and famines to set-up a new way of life in a colony below the sea.  Nere can't believe her mother never told her of her fate, but she has no time to think about it.  She must immediately adjust to life in the water so she can escape the soldiers, marine guard, and ocean predators that want her dead.

Thoughts: As soon as I read about this book, I was intrigued.  I am absolutely enamored with the ocean, terrified by its enormity and dangers but enamored by its beauty and sound.  When I read that Nere communicated with dolphins, I was completely hooked!  

The novel is a compelling, original adventure.... kind of a FInding Nemo for teens!  :)  I really enjoyed the relationships between Nere and the others who are part of the Project, as well as the tension created by the threats they face under the sea.  It's an interesting twist on the dystopian novel with a lot of suspense, intrigue, and character drama.    

Read The Neptune Project if you ... 

• love the ocean and/or dolphins  :) 
• are a scuba diver (or wish you were!)
• enjoy dystopian novels
• have ever felt misunderstood by your friends or family
• like adventure - on land or at sea!

Visit her website to learn more about debut author Polly Holyoke. For those of you that live in the Dallas area, Mrs. Holyoke will speak at the Parish Episcopal School Literary Festival on October 22, 2013 @ 4:00 p.m.  

The False Prince

by Jennifer A. Nielsen 

Summary: The country of Carthya is on the brink of a dangerous civil war.  A man named Connor has a plan to save the country.  To do so, he must find someone to impersonate the long-lost prince.  Sage is one of the orphan boys chosen to compete in a lethal battle to earn the place as the imposter.  His life is at stake, whether he wins or loses. 

Thoughts:  The False Prince is an action-packed, highly entertaining adventure.  Sage is a delightful character - smart, snarky, and fearless.  I liked him immediately as well as many of the others in the interesting cast of characters.  The story is full of political intrigue, suspense, and action.  It's thoroughly enthralling and the perfect start to a new trilogy.  And if you're a fan of audiobooks, this is a perfect addition to your audio library.   

Read The False Prince if you ... 

• like books with a fast pace and twisting plots.
• like bold, clever characters.
• enjoy novels with royal courts and a medieval feel.
• are fans of Megan Whalen Turner or John Flanagan.

      
 Visit author Jennifer A. Nielsen's blog to read more about the Ascendance Trilogy.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again

by Frank Cottrell Boyce

Summary:  When Mr. Tooting loses his job and his car is repossessed, he and son Jem decide to rebuild an old camper van.  They find an engine in a junkyard to rev up the old van.  This engine is no piece of junk, however; it is the engine from the original Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and whisks the family away on an unexpected, unbelievable adventure. 

Thoughts:  What a fun sequel!  The talented Frank Cottrell Boyce, with the permisison of author Ian Fleming's family, has created a new Chitty Chitty Bang Bang adventure featuring a quirky, contemporary British family.  The Tootings are a hoot and their escapades wildly ntertaining.  This is a fresh take on the original; a humorous romp with the charm and feel of a classic tale.  I particularly enjoyed the Author's Note at the end of the book where Mr. Boyce describes his love for the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang film and Ian Fleming's novel that inspired it and the delight in creating a modern sequel.  He says, "It felt strange at first writing a new installment of someone else's story.  But in the end, isn't that what we always do when we tell stories - take something old and give it something of ourselves in the hope that it will fly once more?"  And, fly one more it does! 

Read Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again if you ... 

• enjoyed the original novel or film 
• like Frank Cottrell Boyce's previous novels such as Framed or Cosmic 
• are an Anglophile (one who likes all things British ... like me!) 
• like novels with engaging illustrations throughout
• are looking for a fun, lighthearted adventure to sweep you away

Click here to read more about author Frank Cottrell Boyce and this new Chitty Chitty Bang Bang adventure.  You can even build your own Chitty!  :)  

Insurgent

by Veronica Roth

Summary: Tris is back after surviving Dauntless initiation and the Erudite simulation attacks.  But now, conflicts are growing, allegiances are changing, and Tris and Four are about to find themselves in the middle of an all-out faction war.

Thoughts: I had a little trouble getting into Insurgent.  Regrettably, it had been so long since I read Divergent that I had forgotten many details and minor characters; I should have reread it before I started this sequel.  But after I became reacquainted and things started rolling, I was completely pulled in.  The action is nonstop with a lot of surprises, and the novel ends with quite the cliff-hanger, leaving the reader breathless and ready for #3.  The violence is pretty intense and not for the faint of heart, but this is a pleasing sequel for the die-hard fans of Divergent. 

TIP:  I would recommend rereading Divergent before diving into Insurgent and/or brushing up on the details here.

Read Insurgent if: 

• you loved Divergent. 
• you have a crush on Four. 
• you enjoy interesting dystopian novels with tough heroines. 
• you like books with a lot of action and plot twists & turns. 
• you are a fan of The Hunger Games. 

Visit author Veronica Roth's blog to learn more about this hip, dauntless author.  

The Scorpio Races
by Maggie Stiefvater

Summary:  Every year on the island of Thisby, the capaill uisce, beautiful but deadly sea horses, emerge from the waves. Brave souls attempt to tame them and to race in the annual Scorpio Races. Former champion Sean Kendrick will race again with more on the line than ever. And, Puck Connolly will enter this year as the first female rider in a desperate attempt to save her family.   

Thoughts:  Killer sea horses?  Yes!  Talented author Maggie Stiefvater has borrowed a phenomenon from Celtic legends to spin a completely original, captivating tale.  What I liked best:  It's so different!  Admittedly, I am a horse lover, so I was immediately drawn to the idea (even if they happen to be deadly!).  But, I was then pulled into the compelling story of the feisty Puck and the quiet, alluring Sean. These two characters plus villains, suspense, fast action, and romance make for one exciting tale!  Stiefvater capably builds a magical yet wholly believable setting that celebrates the beauty of exquisite horses and breathtaking coastal islands.  If you are looking for something different from dystopia or paranormal romance, this is the book for you!  

Click here to visit author Maggie Stiefvater's website, to view a cool animated trailer, or to hear the author read the first chapter.        

Legend

by Marie Lu

Summary: June, brilliant and loyal, is the only one to have scored a perfect score in the Trial.  She is the "golden girl" of the government with a bright future.  Day, the country's most wanted criminal, is a hero to the people as he outwits the government to protect the underprivileged.  When their paths cross, new truths are discovered and both lives change forever.       

Thoughts:  Legend stands out among the myriad of dystopian novels hitting the shelves.  Told through June and Day's alternating points of view, it is fast-paced and full of non-stop action.  This compelling thriller keeps readers on the edge of their seats as it explores the ideas of power, revolution, loyalty, and truth.  The characters are well-developed and intriguing - the captivating Day is particularly swoon-worthy! :)  And fortunately, the action will continue in more installments of the series.  Fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent:  Put Legend on the top of or your "to read" list!  You'll definitely want to read it before it hits the big screen. 

Visit http://www.legendtheseries.com/ to read more about the book and to watch a trailer. 

Visit http://www.marielu.org/ to read more about Legend's young, promising new author. 

Ruby Red
by Kerstin Gier

Summary: Gwen’s perfect cousin Charlotte has been preparing her whole life for time travel; so the family is shocked when it’s Gwen, not Charlotte, who inherits the time travel gene.  With no warning or training, Gwen is launched into the mysterious past with only the accompaniment of the arrogant, annoying, but breathtakingly handsome Gideon. 

Thoughts:  I was completely captivated by this fantasy, mainly because of the main character Gwen.  She is a "normal" kid with a hilarious sense of humor used to taking a back seat to her perfect cousin Charlotte.  Her observations and reactions to her changing circumstances are believable and amusing.  The quirky family, their strange house, the fast-paced adventure, the intriguing mystery... all are well-imagined and absorbing.  The book (soon to be a trilogy) was written by a German author and, after its huge popularity in Germany, was translated into English this year.  I am delighted that it was and can't wait for book two, Sapphire Blue! 

Heist Society

by Ally Carter



Summary: Kat’s trying to escape the family “business”. But when her father’s life is in danger, she is pulled back into the art thieving world she worked so hard to escape.

Thoughts: I read an advance copy of this exciting novel last summer and thoroughly enjoyed it from beginning to end. The fun adventure is immersed in the art world, stars a spunky heroine, and blends travel, intrigue and romance. What more could you want?! :) It reminded me of one of my favorite movies, The Thomas Crown Affair. I look forward to future installments of this new series from popular author Ally Carter.

Notes: In the spring, I had the opportunity to attend a dinner with Ms. Carter and several teen readers hosted by my friend & fellow librarian Mrs. Rose Brock. All of the girls (both young & old!) were big Ally Carter fans and enjoyed the time to chat with the author over a cozy dinner. The guests all received darling Heist Society shades like those on the front cover.  Here I am in a Kat pose with the darling Ms. Carter. Luckily, she isn't scared off easily by crazed fans!  

News: Heist Society will soon hit the big screen! Read more about the upcoming movie. I can't wait to see who will play Kat & Hale.

Finally, the 4th Gallagher Girls novel, Only the Good Spy Young, is out!  Don't you just love that title?  Get your hands on a copy today.  

Visit Ms. Carter's site for info about the author, upcoming releases, news & events.   

The Lab

by Jack Heath

Summary: Agent Six of Hearts lives in a futuristic world that is controlled by the evil corporation Chaosonic. Six works for the Deck, a secret agency trying to provide justice in a corrupt world. He is the Deck's most brilliant agent; mission after mission is executed perfectly. But, Six is about to face his most dangerous assignment yet, and he may not be prepared for what lies ahead.

Thoughts: The Lab is a fast-paced, suspenseful thrill ride that grabs the reader and doesn't let go. I really enjoyed the action and look forward to more Agent Six of Hearts adventures. Interesting note: This debut novel was written by the author when he was in high school!

The Seven Keys of Balabad
by Paul Haven

Summary: Seven keys were used to lock up the national treasures of the country of Balabad; the keys were then taken by seven brothers to different corners of the world. Five hundred years later, Oliver Finch moves with his parents from Manhattan to Baladad. At first he is bored and homesick, but then one of his friends is kidnapped and Oliver finds himself in the middle of an ancient mystery and in serious danger!

Thoughts: This is a fast-paced, intriguing mystery full of villains, double-crosses, and dangerous escapes. I liked the Middle Eastern setting and the ancient secrets. The author worked as a foreign correspondent and his experience lends authenticity to the story and its setting.

The 39 Clues: The Maze of Bones
by Rick Riordan

Summary: After their grandmother, Grace Cahill, passes away, Dan and his sister Amy are among the relatives invited to hear the reading of her will. To the surprise of all, Ms. Cahill gives everyone an option: they may each take one million dollars or they may take the first of 39 clues. The clues will lead to a treasure that will make the finder the most powerful person in the world. Dan is shocked when Amy forfeits their millions to start the search.

Thoughts: I finally had a chance to start The 39 Clues, and I was so impressed! I found the first book to be quite clever and entertaining. It was a wonderful blend of adventure, mystery, historical facts, and humor. I listened to this one on audio book, and I can't wait to check out the others. Kudos to Mr. Riordan for creating such an ingenious new series!

Kaleidoscope Eyes

by Jen Bryant

Summary: While helping her father clean out her deceased grandfather's house, Lyza finds a stack labeled "For Lyza ONLY." A lover of geography, her grandfather has left her a collection of maps and clues that appear to lead to a buried pirate's treasure. With the help of her friends, Lyza sets out on the hunt of a lifetime.

Thoughts: I was first drawn to this novel because it is written in free verse; but, I ended up really liking it because of the engrossing blend of historical fiction and adventure. The characters were realistic, and I loved the treasure hunt! This is a unique novel for those looking for something different.

Scat

by Carl Hiaasen

Summary: Ms. Starch is the most feared teacher at the Truman School. But, when she disappears after a school field trip, two of her students quickly realize that something strange is going on. Nick & Marta don't buy the headmaster's story that Ms. Starch is away on a family emergency and start investigating the teacher's disappearance on their own.

Thoughts: Scat contains all of the classic "Hiaasen" elements - environmentalists, greedy corporations, endangered animals, clever kids, and a Florida setting. As in his other novels, the author mixes these together to create a fun, suspenseful adventure full of humor and passion for the environment.

The Juvie Three

by Gordon Korman

Summary: Three juvenile delinquents, Terence, Arjay & Gecko, have been selected by social worker Doug for an alternative detention program allowing them to leave jail and move with him to a halfway house in New York City. When Doug has an accident and ends up in the hospital with amnesia, the boys hatch a plan to cover for him until he can regain his memory. This dangerous escapade might work.....or it might land the three boys right back in juvie.

Thoughts: This is a great book! It's a little more intense than some of Korman's other works, but I really enjoyed it. The characters are genuine, and the plot wais creative. I'd recommend this novel to anyone looking for a realistic story with drama and intrigue.

Dolphin Song

by Lauren St. John

Summary: In this sequel to The White Giraffe, Martine heads with her class to the South African coast to observe the Sardine Run and study nature at sea. Martine is nervous about the trip because of her fear of the ocean, sharks, and the frightning dreams that begin to haunt her sleep before the excursion. As she fears, disaster strikes, and Martine and her classmates are thrown overboard into dark, shark-infested waters. Martine's unique connection with animals may be their only hope for survival.

Thoughts: I was drawn into Martine's second adventure because of my love for dolphins and sea animals. This sequel proved to be an exciting, suspenseful adventure. I love the unique setting of these books and also the author's desire to inspire readers to protect animals and the planet.

The Great Wide Sea

by M.H. Herlong

Summary: Not long after their mother’s death, Ben and his two younger brothers are shocked when their father sells their home, buys a sailboat, and announces that they will cruise the Bahamas for the next year. Forced to leave everything he knows and obey his father-captain’s orders, Ben gets angry and finds no escape on the small boat. Then their father disappears overboard one night; the boys have no time to wonder what happened as they find themselves struggling to save their own lives in the fierce Atlantic Ocean.

Thoughts: This is a gripping adventure that keeps the reader captivated as Ben and his brothers fight to survive. I loved these boys and was heartbroken by their grief and their devotion to each other.

Coming Soon to a Theater Near You!

Everlost

by Neal Shusterman

Summary: Following a fatal car crash, Nick & Allie collide on their way to the light. No longer living they find themselves in Everlost, a limbo for lost souls. Here they discover other lost souls and new rules for "living." Nick begins to settle into this next existence, but Allie will stop at nothing to find her way out.

Thoughts: I am glad I finally had the chance to read this Shusterman novel. Although I knew the premise, the book was very different than I expected. I enjoyed the creative twists and turns. This was a selection of one of my book clubs, and I was so intrigued with the excellent discussion this novel produced. This is a favorite of many of my students who are eagerly anticipating the next volume of the trilogy.

I, Q: Independence Hall

by Roland Smith

Summary: When Quest's ("Q" for short) songwriting mom marries rock star Roger Tucker, he and new stepsister Angela join the duo on the road for a national concert tour. Add to this an old roadie named Boone, a dog, the paparazzi, mysterious characters, possible terrorists, magic tricks, and the CIA and you get one suspenseful, fast-paced adventure!

Thoughts: What a fun novel! I loved the twists, the turns & the James Bond references. I can't wait for the next volume in this exciting new series!

Go Big or Go Home

by Will Hobbs

Summary: Brady is stunned when a meteorite crashes through the roof of his house! He can hardly wait to show the space rock to his cousin Quinn. But during the boys' bike rides and basketball games, Brady starts to exhibit extreme capabilities far beyond his natural level. Could the cause be the meteorite? This is the start of a wild summer for the boys that is full of extreme adventures and many surprises.

Thoughts: Go Big or Go Home is an action-packed novel. I enjoyed the fast pace and the boys' interest in extreme sports & astronomy. The novel made me wish I lived in the Black Hills of South Dakota!

Swindle

by Gordon Korman

Summary: Griffin Bing finds a rare Babe Ruth baseball card that may be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars! The only problem is that before he discovers its value, he sells it to S. Wendell Palomino for almost nothing. When Griffin discovers he's been swindled, he puts together a team of friends with the unique talents needed to pull off the perfect heist. Griffin is determined to get the card back from the man who tricked him and to teach S. Wendell to think before trying to take advantage of a kid again!

Thoughts: I love Gordon Korman! He delivers again with this latest novel - it is fun, fast-paced and full of suprises.