Posts tagged Patrick Ness

ALA Mock Youth Media Awards – Kristin’s Picks

January 12, 2012 · Filed under Biography, Fantasy, Fiction, Graphic Novel, High School, Historical, History, Horror, Humor, Intermediate (3-5), Language Arts, Magic, Middle School (6-8), Multicultural, Nonfiction, Novel in Verse, Novels, Paranormal, Picture Books, Primary (K-2), Realistic, Romance, Social Studies, Sports · Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

If you are anything like us, you are eagerly anticipating the ALA Youth Media Awards on January 23rd. It’s like the Oscars for librarians, and the Collection Development department at Mackin has definitely been buzzing about their favorite books of the year! I chose to highlight the Odyssey Award for Excellence in Audiobook Production, Coretta Scott King Book Awards, and—my favorite—the Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature. Be sure to tune in next week when Mindy and Lindsey highlight their predictions for the Caldecott, Newbery, and many more! Also, feel free to share with us what you think of our choices as well as what your favorites are!

Odyssey Award for Excellence in Audiobook Production

Beauty Queens written and narrated by Libba Bray. 2011.
Have you ever wondered what would happen if a plane full of Beauty Queens crashed onto an (almost) deserted island? You’re in luck! Prepare yourself for a clever tale of girl power and sarcastic spoofs on pop culture. As I said in a previous post, I really enjoyed how Libba Bray used theatricality by changing accents and pitch with such ease between characters. Listeners will definitely forget there is only one narrator. My favorite character of all (because of how she was portrayed) was Taylor Rene Krystal Hawkins (yes, that’s all one name). Bray gives this gun-carrying homecoming queen a fantastic drawl that will leave you in stitches! Don’t miss this one, you won’t regret it!

Liesl & Po written by Lauren Oliver, narrated by Jim Dale. 2011.
Children and adults will love this fairy-tale-esque story that centers around three characters. First we have Liesl, a lonely girl who is mourning the death of her father while she is trapped in an attic. Her loneliness is eased when a ghost named Po shows up with his pet, Bundle. Then there is Will, a boy that runs errands for his boss, the Alchemist. How will these three character’s lives collide? You will have to read (or listen) to find out. Once again, Jim Dale does an amazing job of narrating, and he pulls it off as if he is reading a dark bedtime story to the listener. Watch for Dale’s terrific old-lady sneezes and adorable animal noises! They are quite the treat! Lovers of Roald Dahl will especially enjoy this savvy cracked fairy-tale.

Goliath written by Scott Westerfeld, narrated by Alan Cumming. 2011.
Fans of the Leviathan series will enjoy this third and epic final chapter. Alex and Deryn are still aboard Leviathan struggling with their problems. Alex’s parents are dead, he’s the heir to Austria’s throne, and he’s struggling to make sense of things. Deryn has a huge crush on Alex, and she’s a girl disguised as a boy (if found out, she would be guilty of treason and kicked off Leviathan). If Alex and Deryn don’t have enough troubles already, they reach a new level when a new passenger comes aboard—Mr. Nikola Tesla.  Alan Cumming is a remarkable talent and has done a wonderful job narrating the whole Leviathan series. He is quite proficient at alternating between Alek’s German accent and Deryn’s Scottish brogue. Listeners will especially enjoy the Transylvanian sing-song voice for Mr. Nikola Tesla. Cumming provides a witty reminder that the adventures in the Leviathan series are extraordinary, and that the listener should just hang on for the ride!

*Honorable Mentions*:
Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos. 2011.
Forever by Maggie Stiefvater. 2011.

Coretta Scott King Book Awards

Underground by Shane W. Evans
Shane Evans presents a powerful look at the Underground Railroad – The road to freedom. With its few words, “The darkness. / The escape. / We are quiet. / The fear . . . / We run. / We crawl”, this picture book relies more on commanding images to acquaint young readers with the risks that families took to escape slavery. It also captures the pride they experienced upon first reaching freedom. You will be entranced by the author’s night-time collages as they highlight the fearful eyes of the fugitives and the bright stars above on every page. A brief author’s note provides more information about the Underground Railroad, which parents and teachers can use to teach about the history of slavery.

A Nation’s Hope: The Story of Boxing Legend Joe Louis by Matt de la Peña and illustrated by Kadir Nelson. 2011.
This impressive retelling of the 1938 boxing rematch between America’s Joe Louis and Germany’s Max Schmeling will leave readers wanting more picture books from the talented team of de la Peña and Nelson. Kids will appreciate the directness of de la Peña’s free-verse as well as the insistence of Nelson’s paintings. A Nation’s Hope is the sort of book that will have readers wanting more information about historical events and figures. This interest can lead to discussions about racism, tolerance, and good sportsmanship. An amazing story you do not want to miss!

These Hands by Margaret H. Mason, illustrated by Floyd Cooper. 2011.
You will not want to miss this moving picture book that combines the poignant story of a grandfather’s relationship with his grandson, and an unknown piece of the civil rights movement. Mason explains in an author’s note that during the 1950′s and 1960′s, African American workers at bakery factories were allowed to do all sorts of maintenance type work—but they were not allowed to work as bread dough mixers or handlers. This was “because the bosses said/white people would not want to eat bread/touched by these hands.” It is so sad to think that these events actually happened, but they did. This inspirational story will be enjoyed by readers, along with the touching photo-quality illustrations.

*Honorable Mentions*:
Bird in a Box by Andrea Pinkney, illustrated by Sean Qualls. 2011.
Heart and Soul : The Story of America and African Americans, written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson. 2011.

Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature

Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol. 2011.
I have mentioned this title in a previous post, but I just had to include it in this category. I really enjoyed this tale of an angst-ridden, curvy teenage girl who desperately tries to abandon her Russian heritage in order to become accepted at school. Just when she thinks things can’t get any worse, she falls down a well. This is where she meets a ghost named Emily. Will Emily be the answer to all of her problems? Don’t miss this amazing graphic novel, which has hints of Coraline, Persepolis, and American Born Chinese.

Chime by Franny Billingsley. 2011.
This is one title that has been buzzed about ever since it was published (so of course I had to include it). After the death of her stepmother, Briony develops a repulsion for herself, a strong need to protect her mentally disabled sister, and a fear of the secret she knows she can never reveal. What is Briony’s secret? She’s a witch in a Victorian-era society that believes witches are guilty of all wrongs, and therefore should be hanged. When she meets a boy named Eldric, she learns that she’s not the only one keeping secrets. The haunting and unforgettable tone that Billingsley weaves into lyrical prose is amazing. Paranormal fans will love this wonderfully written tale of growth, loss, and romance.

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater. 2011.
Tracey already mentioned this one in a previous post, but I had to include it!

*Honorable Mentions*:
Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt. 2011.
Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor. 2011.
A Monster Calls: Inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd by Patrick Ness, illustrated by Jim Kay. 2011.

Blogger:  Kristin J.

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Kristin’s Top Ten of 2011

December 15, 2011 · Filed under Dystopia, Fantasy, Fiction, Graphic Novel, High School, Horror, Magic, Middle School (6-8), Paranormal, Romance · Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

As 2011 draws to a close, I would like to share my favorite titles from this busy year! As per usual, the main problem of making my “Top Ten” list was trying to narrow down all of the titles. But as you can see, I did cheat a little (I have 11 rather than 10). So without further ado..here are my fabulous picks!


A Monster Calls: Inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd by Patrick Ness and Jim Kay. 2011.
This title was recommended by Lindsey, who did a wonderful review of this deeply moving story of a boy whose mother is very ill. One of the many twists in the story is that an unexpected monstrous visitor comes to him every night at seven minutes past midnight. I was hesitant about this title at first, because I didn’t know what to expect. The cover initially reminded me of Alvin Schwartz’s Scary Stories books, but this story is very different from that. This story is intense, touching, and ultimately unforgettable. To get the true effect of this title, you must read it for yourself.

Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol. 2011.
Many graphic novels pass by my desk everyday, but Anya’s Ghost was one of the few that really intrigued me this year. Anya is a freshman who is embarrassed by her immigrant past. Her family came to the United States from Russia when she was very young, and she has worked very hard to fit in as an American teen. Little does she know that her life will dramatically change when she falls down a well and encounters a ghost from 1918 named Emily. An entertaining read that was even endorsed by Neil Gaiman: “Anya’s Ghost is a masterpiece, of YA literature and of comics.” I couldn’t have said it better myself!

Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick. 2011.
Being a huge fan of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, I had no doubt I would love Wonderstruck. Selznick is amazing, there is no doubt about it! I adored this book, especially because of how intricately the two stories are woven together. His glorious artwork amazes me again and again with the detail, especially when it comes to eyes. I like how he depicts the eyes as having their own story just like in the silent films, where the performers told stories with them. There are so many more things I could say about this lovely book, but I will let you read Tracey’s review instead. An amazing book meant to read again and again!

Beauty Queens by Libba Bray. 2011.
I listened to the audiobook version of this title, and was excited to find out that it was narrated by the author herself! Talk about a tongue-in-cheek read, that will also keep you on the edge of your seat! The book begins with a small group of beauty pageant contestants fending for themselves on a remote desert island. Miss Texas (Taylor) leads the group (and on the audiobook, Libba gives her an amazing southern drawl) and wants them to continue practicing for the Miss Teen Dream pageant, despite everything. If you enjoy handsome pirates, lip gloss, mystery, and cynicism, Beauty Queens is a must-read for you!

Okay for Now by Gary Schmidt. 2011.
Tracey recommended Okay for Now to me, and I am ever so grateful to her for introducing me to Gary Schmidt. I loved the character of Doug, and how he tried to stay optimistic despite his difficult circumstances. The scenes that especially captured my interest were when Doug would compare people to Audubon’s paintings: “Her blue coat was spread out, and it covered them both like wide wings…” Schmidt truly has a gift for authentic dialogue and engaging the reader. I cannot wait to see what he comes up with next!

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor. 2011.
I adored this book! Laini Taylor does a sensational job of drawing you into the story with her prose that is tantalizing and filled with vivid imagery. Magical tattoos, fiery handprints and mythical beasts will make you want to learn more about blue-haired Karou’s fascinating world. An otherworldly romance was also a nice added touch (especially for me), check out my full review here.

The Space Between by Brenna Yovanoff. 2011.
Brenna Yovanoff’s depiction of heaven, hell and everything in between was unlike anything I have ever read before. I enjoyed how twisted, yet strangely beautiful the world of Pandemonium was. The tone of the writing also captivated me, along with many stunning twists and turns. A striking novel that just might have you sympathizing with a demon girl (I know I did)! To read a full review please click here. To read my exciting author interview with Brenna Yovanoff, click here.

Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton. 2011.
Romance, magic, murder, and the quest for immortality are all spellbinding elements in Tessa Gratton’s debut novel Blood Magic. Trust me, you will never look at blood the same way again! I also enjoyed the alternating points of view that started each chapter because they made me feel really connected to the characters of Silla, Nick, and even Josephine Darly. In terms of paranormal fiction, Gratton’s Blood Magic is one that really stands out from the pack! Read my full review here, and be sure to stay tuned for an author interview with Tessa Gratton!

The Pledge by Kimberly Derting. 2011.
This is the best dystopian novel that I have read thus far. Derting, also known for her Body Finder series, does a magnificent job of luring you into the world of Ludania. We meet Charlaina (Charlie) who lives in a society where the language you speak determines your social class. Charlie can understand all languages and must hide this ability in order to avoid punishment or death. Throw in an evil queen, an intense romance, fascinating side characters, as well as many secrets..and you have The Pledge! Look for my review at the end of this month, as well as an author interview with Kimberly Derting!

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi. 2011.
“I’ve been locked up for 264 days“ is how debut author Tahereh Mafi begins the intriguing story of Juliette. The Reestablishment has locked Juliette up for a murder she didn’t mean to commit. Her touch is lethal, and the people who have imprisoned her have plans to use her to their advantage. As a weapon. An amazing debut that will lead you on many plot twists, and leave you wanting more. Look for a more in-depth review by me in January!

*Bonus*: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. 2012.
Although this is my Top Ten of 2011 list, I figured I could add in my first pick for my 2012 list (because it is that amazing of a novel). It was featured as our very first Promising Bloom, and rightfully so! This was my first introduction to John Green and I was not disappointed. His characters are so authentic and expressive, that it made me feel as if I really knew Hazel and Augustus. The Fault in Our Stars is an insightful story that will hit your funny bone and tug at your heart strings.

Thanks so much for following our blog this past year. We really appreciate all of your support, and hope that you will continue to enjoy our blog in 2012 and beyond (‘to infinity and beyond!’) Have a wonderful holiday season, and we look forward to seeing you again next year!

Kristin J.

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October 13, 2011 · Filed under Fiction, Grade Levels, Horror, Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), Novel in Verse, Novels, Picture Books, Primary (K-2), Realistic · Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

According to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure website, in 2011 there will be 230,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer.  That number is overwhelming to me.  In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’ve chosen titles to represent elementary, middle, and high school readers.  These are fantastic books that can help children and teens deal with the struggle of having a loved one affected by breast cancer.

The Goodbye Cancer Garden by Janna Matthies. Illustrated by Kristi Valiant. 2011. Grades 2-4

Janie and her family receive a terrible shock when they find out Janie’s mother has breast cancer. The whole family goes to see the doctor, and when asked when their mother well be better, the doctor responds, “probably by pumpkin time.” Janie decides the best thing for the family to do is plant a garden to mark the time until their mother is better, and call it the Goodbye Cancer garden. When their mother finishes her chemotherapy and beats the cancer, the family discovers the two large pumpkins in their garden. This sweet story illustrates how families can come together during difficult times.

Brushing Mom’s Hair by Andrea Cheng. Illustrated by Nicole Wong. 2009. Grades 5-8

This slim novel in verse packs an emotional punch as readers learn of Ann’s internal struggles in dealing with her mother’s breast cancer. Just shy of fifteen, Ann copes with the changes in her family as her mother is diagnosed and treated for cancer. Ballet becomes her release of the daily worries about how to tell her friends, how to make her mother drink enough water, and her concerns that her family will never be normal again. Andrea Cheng wrote these poems after her own struggle with breast cancer, and doesn’t sugar-coat the gritty details of the treatment process. This beautiful and realistic story will help teens deal with their own emotions as they connect with Ann’s character.

A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness. Inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd.  Illustrated by Jim Kay. (2011)   Grades 7-12

When a yew tree turns into a terrible monster and appears at Connor’s window, Connor is surprisingly unafraid. His own nightmares scare him more than this monster. The monster tells Connor three stories and expects Connor to tell him a fourth. As Connor listens to each story, he’s angry at each outcome. The good guy is bad, the bad guy is good, and nothing is as it seems. As the time draws closer to tell his truth, the truth he’s kept hidden for so long, he’s terrified at what will happen if he reveals it.

Patrick Ness created this story from an idea by Siobhan Dowd before she died. Knowing that Siobhan Dowd died of breast cancer makes this story all the more powerful and gut-wrenching. This is an incredible, emotional book that I challenge anyone to read without needing tissues.

Here’s a spread of Jim Kay’s chilling artwork.

Lindsey L.

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