CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 1, 2010
"This may not be great literature, but it holds strong appeal for teens who can't get enough street lit. (Fiction. YA)"
On the day Michelle Peña wins in the qualifying rounds for All-American track and earns a spot on her school's academic decathlon team, she and her best friend, Kiki, are kidnapped.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2009
"Fully realized secondary characters, realistically raunchy dialogue and the scatological subject matter assure that this boisterous and unexpectedly sweet read will be a word-of-mouth hit. (Fiction. 14 & up)"
This viscerally funny story of one boy's attempt to impress his ladylove by finishing four laps of the dreaded butterfly stroke in a swim competition by summer's end is sure to please fans of Pete Hautman's Rash (2006) and Randy Powell's Three Clams and an Oyster (2002).
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 13, 2009
"Asha's struggles will enlighten and inspire young women, and encourage them to value their own freedom. (glossary, map) (Fiction. YA)"
Asha would rather be burning bras, studying psychology and playing tennis like Chris Evert (she's that good).
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2008
"Although the author tries to muddy the waters with an undercooked subplot that involves possible past malfeasance on the part of Savvy's coach, the final revelation is heavily foreshadowed, making the most surprising thing how readily Savvy forgives. (Fiction. 12 & up)"
Against the odds, 13-year-old, 6'2" Savvy, the psychologically tough heroine of Mackel's engrossing story, makes it onto a competitive basketball team for older girls.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 1, 2002
"Nonetheless, a worthy subject that should give kids plenty to think about. (Fiction. 10+)"
Looks may not be everything, but few high-school students would deny that physical appearance is connected to self-esteem and social standing.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 1998
"In this gripping look at family relationships Cadnum finds painful shades of gray for Bonnie to face for the first time; in her will to grasp the manner and timing of her healing is evidence that she is one of Cadnum's most complex and enigmatic characters. (Fiction. 12-14)"
For Cadnum (In a Dark Wood, p. 55, etc.), there's nothing like a little uncertainty to throw a top athlete—or a father- daughter relationship—off, headed for a permanent setback.
Read full book review >
