Asian Pacific Heritage Month - MAY

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Where "Kids who READ Succeed"

Washburn District High School Library

1359 Main Street,  Washburn, ME  04786

   Phone:  207-455-4501    FAX:    207-455-4509

Londa Brown, Library Media Specialist  

"Librarians connect people to ideas."
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Book Reviews

Adventure         TOP

Private Peaceful by Michael Murpurgo   9

A very interesting book if you like action in war with gun fights.  It is a book about World War I and if you need something good to read, pick this up!~~  Adam  ~~

 

The River by Gary Paulsen     7

I liked the book because of the adventure and the main character, Brian, who was very smart and wasn't afraid of work.  If I were writing the story, I would have made the ending more difficult.  I highly recommend this book to other readers of any age. ~~ Trevor ~~

Contemporary         TOP    

Aftershock by Kelly Easton        7

Adam, in shock after a car accident that has claimed his parents, attempts to hitch-hike home. 

Aimee by Mary Beth Miller        10

A group of friends faces hardships when one of their group commits suicide.  This close look at teen suicide makes you realize the pain it causes to those left behind.  ~ Kira ~      ~ Mrs Brown ~

 

And the Beat Goes On by Adele Minchen      9

AIDS is a touchy subject, but the author covers it well.  She makes you see that people are people, even with illnesses like STDs.  It is also a good example of the days of unprotected sex.  ~Katelyn~

     

Angel's Choice by Lauren Baratz-Logsted        10

If you like high school drama, you should read this book.  Girls, it will make you think about your future and the subject of birth control.  ~~Nicky~~  

Avalon High by Meg Cabot        8

A fun, quick read that has a different twist to King Arthur, Lancelot, Guinevere, Mordred and the Lady of Shalott in a current-day setting.  ~Kelsey~

Breathing Underwater by Alex Flinn           8

Nick has anger issues that he isn't even aware of.  Forced to go through anger management, he begins to deal with the forces of anger.  ~ Ali ~  

Buddha Boy by Kathe Koja    Runner-Up in a nation-wide contest!  

Read this winning entry submitted last year by Mike:

Dear Mrs. Koja,

I life in a small town in northern Maine. The town I live in everyone knows everyone. I go to a rural high school, where there are four or five major bullies and their followers. I’ve seen in some cases the bully getting bullied. It’s pretty much survival of the fittest, because if you’re not tough or have tough friends then you’re a victim to a bully.

I remember when I first came to my school. I felt just like Jinsen. I felt like I was an outcast. I have never been bullied, but I have been called names from time to time. I can really connect with Jinsen because everything but the bullying part has happened to me. Just like in the story he didn’t have a friend until Justin discovers Jinsen’s talent. Same thing happened to me. I didn’t have any friends until people realized I was good at basketball.

Every time Jinsen got bullied by McManus and his gang it made me really mad because no one should be judge by what they look like or how they talk. Before you hate someone at least talk to them. When McManus and his gang threw Jinsen’s drawing book in the mud puddle, it was the last straw for me, because what gives them the right to do that? Nothing, just because he dresses differently doesn’t mean let’s be mean and pick on him, but all in all I really liked this book so thank you for writing it

Sincerely,

Mike S. Conroy

Cat who had 60 Whiskers by Lillian Jackson Braun    8

This is the 28th book in this series, which is one of my favorites.  Quill, a columnist who inherited a huge fortune, is helping to support the town.  Great humor and mystery.  ~Ms. Flagg~

Chanda's secrets by Allan Stratton        9

A wonderful, touching story which deals with the struggle of AIDS. The determination of one girl causes your heart to break.  I found this to be one of the best books I have ever read.  It is a gripping story which will hit home.  ~Kelsee~

Cut by Patricia McCormack  10

A good book that explains many things about people who are in this situation.  I think you would like it if you like reading about things like this. ~~  Kylee ~~

Dairy Queen by Catherine Gilbert Murdock      4

This book is written for girls who like to stand out and start new ideas, like girls playing on the football team.  It is also a book that will help build confidence for shy people because it is about a shy girl who begins talking about her feelings.  ~Alex~ 

Fragments by Jeffrey W. Johnston     

Fragments will lead you straight into the life of a high school tragedy.  While Chase, the lead character, learns how to deal with the recent troubles that have begun to plague his life, old ones begin to surface.  As you read, you will begin to understand how the tragedies in Chases' life have shaped him.  This is an amazing book that will make you sad, scared, and will put you on the edge of your seat as you try to sort through your own feelings as Chase sorts through his. ~Julie~

Going under by Kathe Koja        7

This book shows that you always need someone to get you through hard times.  The brother and sister in this story have a connection so strong that no one, not even a shrink, can break.  ~Ali~

The Great Divorce by C. S. Lewis        10

A great book for anyone who wants to learn what eternity might be like.  I was surprised by the lessons the novella taught about life.  It is definitely worth reading.  ~ Jeremiah ~

Head Games by Mariah Fredericks        8

If you are having trouble at school with certain people, you should read this book as it gives good advice.  Hopefully there will be a sequel.    ~Amber~

Hey Good Lookin' by Fern Michaels        7

When Darby's best friend Russell is killed in an accident, she returns home to live with her aunt while she takes care of one his last wishes.  At the same time, Russell's stepmother donates his organs, the one thing Russell did not want to happen.  Darby turns to Russell's brother, Ben, while she is coping with the deception.  What transpires makes every girl believe in fairy-tale romance!  ~Mrs. Hallett ~

Last Shot by John Feinstein        8

Can't get enough of March madness?  This book is for you!  This mystery is filled with history and background of the game and is made for sports fans.  ~Ms. Flagg~

Letting Go of Bobby Jones or How I found my self of Steam by Valerie Hobbs         9

Running from an abusive boyfriend, Sally Jo runs into some unbelievable situations.  ~ Ali ~

More than friends by Barbara Delinsky        7

This novel is a good read and holds your interest as it spins a tale of friendship, betrayal, forgiveness and relationships damaged.  ~Mrs. Cole~

 

Multiple Choice by Janet Tashjian        6

Monica is a perfectionist and is ruled by choices from a game.  ~ Ali ~

The Nature of Jade by Deb Caletti            9

Jade just doesn't fit in.  She works at the zoo and while watching the elephants, she sees a mysterious boy with a baby.  ~ Ali ~

No Laughter Here by Rita Williams-Garcia    3

This book is a contemporary window into Africa's cultural past and present.  It is a horrifyingly informational story of an underground operation that many girls in Africa are forced into.  Akilah is Victoria's best friend forever and is worried when Victoria tells Akilah of her operation. Aklilah begins a campaign to stop the operations.  ~Sarah~

Not quite a stranger by Colby Rodowsky        5

You might think you know your family, but in this story, a brother shows up out of the blue and provides a real twist to the story.  ~Ali~

The One left behind by Willo Roberts        6

This quick read can be boring at times.        ~Jessica~

 

Private by Kate Brian        7

When I picked up this book, I was not sure I was going to like it, but it surprised me.  Teen girls would read this book, especially if you liked the book The Rise & Fall of a 10th Grade Social Climber.   ~Kelsey~

A very addicting series and this one has a sad, cliff-hanger ending.  ~ Kelsey ~

 

Puss n' Cathoots by Rita Mae Brown        8

This book is the newest in a series of Mrs. Murphy books.  Although a bit slow compared to others, the basic humor and ending are worth the effort.  ~Ms. Flagg~

Shooting Monarchs by John Halliday        8

A very deranged book that links all of the events together with a main character that seems to have no motive for his actions.   ~ Amber ~

 

Sold by Patricia McCormick        9

A sad and powerful book.  I could feel Lakshmi's anger, fear, hurt and betrayal.  The story was very enlightening and told clearly how bad the conditions are in India and Africa.  ~Kelsey~ 

This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen        10

Follow Remy as she begins to realize things she had never believed in before.  Like love.  Follow Remy as she struggles with leaving for college and discovering that love is real; it just takes a little work.  ~Julie~

     

True Believer by Nicholas Sparks        8

Jeremy has a fabulously successful job as a scientific journalist.  When he's called to Boone Creek to investigate strange lights in the cemetery, he meets Lexie, the town librarian.  The relationship that unfolds is so life-like.  Great book if you just want to lose yourself.  Not as sappy as the Notebook.

  Wicked Series by Nancy Holder and Debbie Vigue   5

For readers who like witchcraft and adventure. Read Wicked Curse and Wicked Legacy. ~Ashley~

 

Year of Secret Assignments by Jaclyn Moriarty  10

This book is funny, sad and entertaining all at the same time.  I loved it!  ~Katelynn~

Fantasy            TOP

Black Jewels Trilogy by Anne Bishop    8

The author creates a whole new world in just 3 books.  This trilogy crosses all genres and should appeal to most readers with just the right amount of mystery, intrigue, adventure, and romance.  ~Julie~

The Book of Mordred by Vivian Vanda Velde        10

An awesome book which offers a look at King Arthur and Camelot from Mordred's view.  If you like Marian Zimmer Bradley and Mary Stewart, you will like this book. ~Kelsey~

The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper    10

A pretty good story...would like to read the rest of the series.  ~Katlyn~

 

Falcondance by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes        9

This is a sequel to Snakecharm and focuses on Nicias, a falcon, who is a Wyvern of Honer and serves Oliza.  Mostly adventure and mystery with a little bit of magic.  ~Julie~

 

Goddess of the Night by Lynne Ewing      5

If you like adventure, fantasy and suspense, this book is for you. ~Julie~

 

The Golden Compass - Based on author Philip Pullman's bestselling and award-winning novel, "The Golden Compass" tells the first story in Pullman's "His Dark Materials" trilogy. "The Golden Compass" is an exciting fantasy adventure, set in an alternative world where people's souls manifest themselves as animals, talking bears fight wars, and Gyptians and witches co-exist. At the center of the story is Lyra (played by newcomer Dakota Blue Richards), a 12-year-old girl who starts out trying to rescue a friend who's been kidnapped by a mysterious organization known as the Gobblers - and winds up on an epic quest to save not only her world, but ours as well. "The Golden Compass" stars an ensemble cast that includes Nicole Kidman, Daniel Craig, Sam Elliott, and Ian McShane. The film is written and directed by Chris Weitz ("About A Boy," "Antz") and produced by Deborah Forte and Bill Carraro ("Frequency"). It is executive produced by Andrew Miano and Paul Weitz ("In Good Company"). "The Golden Compass" is scheduled for a Dec. 7, 2007 release. 

***Info taken from the film database:  http://www.comingsoon.net/films.php?id=7892

Remember, books are always better than the movie - even though we usually enjoy both!!

An adventure with a pretty good main character, Lyra, who searches for a friend who was kidnapped.  ~Evan~        10

 Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray  10

This is one of the best books I have read in a long time!  Several girls in the story have problems and are brought together by one girl who has the power to take them to a dream-like place where all of their dreams can come true.  Comedy, tragedy, and romance all combine to make a wonderful book.  I recommend this to you if you enjoy fantasy.  ~~ Linda ~~

Here there be Dragons by James A. Owen    9

Fresh and sassy with funny and charismatic characters.  Fantasy lovers will eat this up as it refers to other authors like Tolkien and C. S. Lewis.  ~Kelsey~

Into the Cold Fire by Lynne Ewing           8

This book is intense and great for action, fantasy and adventure.  ~Chelsea~

 

Diaries of the family Dracul Series by Jeanne Kalogridis    10

#1 - Covenant with the Vampire 

     #2 - Children of the Vampire

     #3 - Lord of the Vampires - Read all in the series if you like scary vampire books which will keep you up at night!  ~Katelynn~ 

 

The Lost Years of Merlin by T. A. Barron   7

This is fantasy at its best.  It starts slow but becomes exciting at the end.  Merlin is only 14 in the book, not at all what you would think.  If you like magic, you should pick up this book.  ~~ Curtis ~~

Midnight Pearls by Debbie Vigue    9

Fairy tale lovers will love this romantic, action-packed book.  ~Kaitlyn~

 

Midnight Predator by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes  7

Very similar to Neon Flux with girls fighting to obtain one person with one girl outdoing all of the others.  ~Ali~

 

My Father the Werewolf by Henry Garfield    10

Cute, funny, but also serious.  A great read!  ~Katelyn~

 

New Moon by Rebecca York    9

An excellent book, but quite sexually explicit, so it gets a "9".  It is more mature that most books in our library.   ~Katelyn~

The Night Dance by Suzanne Weyn        8

Myth lovers need to read this.  ~ Chelsea ~

Nightlife by Rob Thurman        8

An amazing story about 2 brothers fighting for their lives against vampires, trolls, and darklings.  The younger brother is also fighting his inner demons.  Join the adventure as they battle for their lives.  ~ Julie ~

Prisoner of Alzcaban by J. K. Rowling        6

A great read for fantasy lovers who also like magic mixed in.  ~Chelsea~ 

Return to Chaos by Craig Shaw Gardner        7

This is a Buffy the Vampire series book and with her band of friends she keeps a red demon from brainwashing Sunnydale.   ~Kelly~

Shattered Mirror by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes        9

A vampire hunter is hunting her lost enemy, but when she discovers him, he is gentle and not like her other enemies.  ~Ali~

Shield of Stars by Hilari Bell        5

A former pickpocket begins a journey to help justice.  Great legend with lots of adventure.  ~Chelsea~

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer        8

A great book that everyone will like.  ~Jessica~

 

The Warrior Heir by Cinda Chimn        8

The many elements in this book will keep you on your toes.

 

The Wizard Heir by Cinda Williams Chima        10

Follows the Warrior Heir - Seph McCauley begins his journey as he struggles to learn how to control his magic while at the same time he searches for the truth about his parents and his history.  Friends and enemies are acquired during his journey.

 

The Vampire Armand by Anne Rice        10

Part of a series, The Vampire Chronicles and follows Memnoch the Devil.  Very attention-grabbing.  ~Katelyn~

 

Graphic

Chibi Vampire Series by Chibi Kagesaki       10

Vampire books with a twist.   ~Ali~

Fruit Basket Series by Natsuko Takaya     6

This series is one of the better and more foolish Manga books I've read.  If you like romance/comedy, pick these up; it's definitely one of my favorites. Read #2, 3, 4, 5, 6   ~Chelsea~

Meru Puri Series by Matsuri Hino        10

Airi is looking for a boy suitable for a husband.  When a boy who says he is a prince comes out of her mirrow, her life is twisted in knots.   ~Ali~

Paradise Kiss Series by Ai Yazawa        10

The series focuses on a girl who models for some art students and then enters the world of modeling.  ~Ali~

  

Prince of Tennis Series by Takashi Knomi    4

This is an excellent series and will appeal to anyone who likes tennis.  Read #11,12,13,14,15,16,17   ~Chelsea~

Sai Yuki Series by Kazuya Minekura        8

One of the best action fantasy book series ever!  Also, Sai Yuki Reload 1 which is not as good as the original series.  Read 1,2,3,5 & Reload 1  ~Chelsea~

Yonen Buzz Series by Christina Plaka    10

A group of teens form a band and the series deals with their recording experiences.  ~Ali~

 

Historical Fiction         TOP

East of the Sun Trilogy by Linda Lee Chaiken        8

If you like history, mystery, intrigue, and romance against all odds, then these books are perfect for you.  First, the author takes you straight to the past as you watch a woman fight for her life and her child.  Then you are shipped right into the future time of France's Upper Class as a young woman begins to find her way after tragedy strikes, leading her into the dangers of the Upper Class and teaching her how hard you have to fight for something you want.     ~Julie~

Heroes don't run by Harry Mazer        9

Great for anyone who likes a war story as this is about a boy going to war and what he experiences.  ~Zach~

 

Love Comes Softly a series of 8 books by Janette Oke.  10

Set in the same time period as The Little House on the Prairie Books, these eight books tell the story of generations of the Davis family as they pursue homes and dreams and face tragedy and loss on the prairie, the the West and the city of Boston.  Janette Oke is a writer of Christian Fiction.  She presents the Gospel as it relates to the characters and the events they face in their daily lives.  ~Mrs. Knowles~

Love Comes Softly (1)- Life unexpectedly throws a cure ball!  Follow Martha Claridge as she faces a grave loss and rebuilds her life with the help of a stranger's kindness.  Loves Enduring Promise (2)- Marty settles into a new life and community on the prairie.  Although her family is growing, she reaches out to others offering love and security within the walls of her home.  She and husband Clark say a tearful goodbye to daughter Missie, encouraging her to pursue her dreams.  Love's Long Journey (3) Willy and Missie LaHaye travel West towards Willy's dream of becoming a rancher.  Harsh weather, loneliness, separation, and cattle rustlers create challenges and also new friendships.  Love's Abiding Joy (4) Clark & Marty are reunited with their daughter Missie.  Love's Unending Legacy (5) Daily life brings unexpected events and the faith and strength to face these events.  Ellie makes a serious decision about her life.  Clare and Kate face unexpected sadness.  What is the "unending legacy" passed on by members of the Davis family?  Love's Unfolding Dream (6)  Three teenage girls come of age. Read about their triumphs and struggles with daily life as they are loved and supported by a very close farm family of two generations.  Love Takes Wing (7) Belinda travels East where she encounters a new world, different values and new challenges.  Love Finds a Home (8)  After 3 years in the city, Belinda returns to the prairie and her family.  Will she find the place where she feels settled and content?

 The Sacrifice by Kathleen Dube-Beener        8

A family is faced with challenges when two sisters are accused of witch craft and are taken to a prison where they await their trial. You will learn a great deal about the Salem Witch trials.  ~ Kira ~

 

Mystery         TOP   

      1-800 Where-R-U a series by Meg Cabot   10

A great series and a quick read.  Sanctuary was the best.  ~~Ashley~~

The Angel of Death by Alane Ferguson        8

A great mystery book if you can stand gore!  Filled with mystery and a touch of romance.  ~Julie~

All around the town by Mary Higgins Clark        8

A little romance and a little mystery with multi-personality characters.  ~Kaitlyn~

Forbidden territory by Paula Graves        9

Two different mysteries intertwine with psychic characters.  ~Kaitlyn~

 

Fortune by Erica Spindler        8

A mystery book where you need to put all of the pieces together to solve the plot.  ~Kaitlyn~

Halloween Party by R. L. Stine        8

Lots of suspense, but there could have been more action.  It is hard to put this book down.  ~ Shawn ~

 

Murder Uncorked by Michele Scott        8

Murder, mystery, crime and even recipes...~Kaitlyn~

 

Sleeping Beauty suspect by Dani Sinclair        9

Great book to take with you for the journey - easy mystery read with romance and fantasy.  ~Kaitlyn~

Two little girls in blue by Mary Higgins Clark     5

A fast-moving mystery about a kidnapping with many twists to the plot.  It is not a great book, but for a fast-paced mystery, it is a good read.  ~Mrs. Cole~

 

Science Fiction         TOP

The Cell by Stephen King            8

If you like scary, creepy, psycho types of books, then pick this one.  ~Kaitlyn~

Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry      8

A good sequel to the Giver, but very sad.

Messenger by Lois Lowry        10

Lowry's books are so depressing, but I love them.  ~Katelynn~     

 

Prose Poetry             TOP

Crank by Ellen Hopkins    10

Meth, also know as crank, is the focus of this lyric book.  It is a very serious and heartbreaking story that quickly goes downhill.  ~Katelyn~

Hold me Tight by Lorie Ann Grover    10

This is an amazing story of a young 10 year old girl dealing with the tragedies in her life and the rewards that follow.  This emotional story will immediately draw you in and keep you reading.   ~Julie~

On Pointe by Lorie Grover        8

This is a story where things happen "just like that!"  Clare doesn't get into the ballet class she wanted and then the next thing you know she is in the hospital.  Girls, you would like this prose poetry book.

The Simple Gift by Steven Herrick        9

The book was good and the prose form was easy to read.  It was very weird that Billy just ran away instead of trying to get help before he left his father's house.  The story was good, but should have been longer.  ~Cody~

 

What my mother doesn't know by Sonya Sones  9

Lyric books are great!   It is told from a teen girl's point of view and shows that even the most unlikely people can become the most important.  ~Katelyn~

 

Non-Fiction            TOP    

Augusta Gone by Martha Dudman        8

This book is one of the best books I have ever read. It is a true story about a mother and daughter who face problems with drugs, lying and stealing. ~Jessica~

Ghost girl by Torey Hayden        10

This is one of the best books I have ever read.  Be aware that the story is very disturbing and you will need to be ready for a shocker.    ~Ali~

Voices of the Trojan War by Kate Hovey      7

This poetry book is ok if you aren't all that interested in the Trojan War.  The character dialog tells what really happened and is kind of cool.  ~Amber~

Witches; Witch Hunts by Milton Meltzer       9

If you've ever wanted to know the "witching" side of famous people from history, you need to read this.  Included are Joan of Arc, Adolf Hitler, the Salem Witch Trials, and many more.

 

Biography         TOP

Night by Elie Wiesel        10

This book was SO powerful.  It was also sad and depressing.  I found it horrifying that humans would do such evil things to other humans. ~Kelsey~

Prisoner of the American Dream by Joseph Jennings    9

This book is amazing.  It is hard to believe that so much can happen to someone and they live to tell the story.  It will make you feel that what we have is good.    ~ Shawn ~

 

They cage the animals at night by Jennings Michael Burch  10 

This books is about a sweet little boy who doesn't get treated the way he should.  His mom gets very sick, so he has to go away and stay in  different homes.  He's treated the same way everywhere - he is abused!  He only had a stuffed animal to help him through the pain.  Do you think he was able to overcome all of the obstacles?  Read this book to see how a little boy learned to survive.  ~~  Kayla ~~

Thirteenth Winter by Samantha Abeel          5

Samantha learns she has a learning disability.  Her true story is sad, but she also has an inner strength that will appeal to many girls.  ~ Kira ~

 

I will plant you a lilac tree; a memoir of a Shindler's List survivor by Laura Hillman   8

If you like true stories about the Holocaust, then you will like this fantastic book.  It really makes you think about what it would be like to have to go through all that the author did.  The details are vivid, so you have to have a strong stomach to be able to handle the details.  This book is heart wrenching and makes you glad you live the life you have.  ~~ Kira ~~

John Lennon; all I want is the truth; a photographic biography by Elizabeth Partridge  9

This book might seem thick, but most of it is pictures and the words are huge.  This book is wonderful.  If you don't know much about the Beatles, you should pick this up as the details are very vivid and deep.  If you don't think you can read something that is dark, you should wait before reading this.  You will feel John Lennon's happiness, grief, and depression.  The book is outstanding and I'd recommend it to anyone.  ~~  Alison ~~

Rachel's Tears by Beth Nimmo        7

This inspirational and spiritual biography portrayed Rachel as an outstanding role model.  I loved the fact that she stayed true to herself.  ~Hillary~

 

Seed of Sarah by Sarah Isaacson        9

It is very hard to imagine someone surviving a concentration camp like Sarah did.  This is a very inspirational book, though sad, especially reading about someone your own age who suffered as she did.     ~Amber~