page turners - action/thriller reads you can't put down
2019-20 School Year Reads
Superman: Dawnbreaker by Matt De La Pena
Clark Kent loved football, but he learned freshman year that he was too strong and fast to play. His football buddies are still mad at him for leaving the team, but as Clark continues to get new, strange powers, he knows he made the right decision. When people in Smallville start to go missing, Clark decides it is time to use his powers to help others. Meet Superman as he is discovering his history and beginning his hero's journey. In the 1930's, Superman helped fight the Klu Klux Klan, and now his story is tackling the issues of immigrants and refugees. Matt De LA Pena is one of my favorite authors, and his writing is superb as he compares Superman's story to that of any immigrant or refugee. Should Superman be put in a detention camp because he did not have the correct paperwork? This action-packed and thought-provoking story is perfect for superhero fans! Highly recommended!
Clark Kent loved football, but he learned freshman year that he was too strong and fast to play. His football buddies are still mad at him for leaving the team, but as Clark continues to get new, strange powers, he knows he made the right decision. When people in Smallville start to go missing, Clark decides it is time to use his powers to help others. Meet Superman as he is discovering his history and beginning his hero's journey. In the 1930's, Superman helped fight the Klu Klux Klan, and now his story is tackling the issues of immigrants and refugees. Matt De LA Pena is one of my favorite authors, and his writing is superb as he compares Superman's story to that of any immigrant or refugee. Should Superman be put in a detention camp because he did not have the correct paperwork? This action-packed and thought-provoking story is perfect for superhero fans! Highly recommended!
Books Read Before 2019
Boy Nobody by Allen Zadoff
Boy Nobody is the boy with face and name you can never remember. Trained as an assassin since age 11, he has been on many missions for The Program, the secret government group he works for. When he gets a target, he moves to a new town with a new name, makes friends, and when someone dies, he disappear. Boy Nobody is always able to get the job done quickly and quietly, and he has never failed to complete his mission. However, his most recent mission makes him question everything he has been to lead to leave about The Program, He can't keep himself from caring for his latest target and his daughter. Suddenly, he is questioning the validity of The Program, his ability to complete his mission, and the life he is living. Boy Nobody has the skills to complete any assassination, but can he prevent one from happening? I could not put this book down as I watched Boy Nobody struggle between being true to the Program and being true to himself. I can't wait for the second book, The Lost Mission, to come out in June of 2014.
Boy Nobody is the boy with face and name you can never remember. Trained as an assassin since age 11, he has been on many missions for The Program, the secret government group he works for. When he gets a target, he moves to a new town with a new name, makes friends, and when someone dies, he disappear. Boy Nobody is always able to get the job done quickly and quietly, and he has never failed to complete his mission. However, his most recent mission makes him question everything he has been to lead to leave about The Program, He can't keep himself from caring for his latest target and his daughter. Suddenly, he is questioning the validity of The Program, his ability to complete his mission, and the life he is living. Boy Nobody has the skills to complete any assassination, but can he prevent one from happening? I could not put this book down as I watched Boy Nobody struggle between being true to the Program and being true to himself. I can't wait for the second book, The Lost Mission, to come out in June of 2014.
Catwoman Soulstealer by Sarah J. Maas
Selina Kyle has fought to protect her sister her entire life. She protected her from their abusive mother. She fought for the Leopards to pay for her sister's medical bills. Therefore, when her sister was threatened, Salina agreed to become an assassin, so her sister would be adopted into a loving home. Now a trained member of the League of Assassins, Selina is back in Gotham City. By day, she is the ultra-rich socialite Holly Vanderhees, but by night, she is Catwoman. With the help of Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn, Catwoman is going to shake up Gotham City forever.
Luke Fox became Batwing to fight the demons that haunt him from his time in the military. With Batman away, Batwing must protect Gotham City. However, Catwoman is the most cunning, lethal, and infuriating villains he has ever faced. His neighbor Holly Vanderhees is equally challenging. Batwing vowed to protect Gotham, and he won't let a cat get in his way.
Although I am not a huge DC fan, I LOVED this book. Maas is one of my favorite authors, and just like her other books, this one has unique and lovable characters, complicated relationships, strong female friendships, and heart-stopping action. You will cheer for both Selina and Luke, and the twists and turns will shock you. Highly recommended!
Selina Kyle has fought to protect her sister her entire life. She protected her from their abusive mother. She fought for the Leopards to pay for her sister's medical bills. Therefore, when her sister was threatened, Salina agreed to become an assassin, so her sister would be adopted into a loving home. Now a trained member of the League of Assassins, Selina is back in Gotham City. By day, she is the ultra-rich socialite Holly Vanderhees, but by night, she is Catwoman. With the help of Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn, Catwoman is going to shake up Gotham City forever.
Luke Fox became Batwing to fight the demons that haunt him from his time in the military. With Batman away, Batwing must protect Gotham City. However, Catwoman is the most cunning, lethal, and infuriating villains he has ever faced. His neighbor Holly Vanderhees is equally challenging. Batwing vowed to protect Gotham, and he won't let a cat get in his way.
Although I am not a huge DC fan, I LOVED this book. Maas is one of my favorite authors, and just like her other books, this one has unique and lovable characters, complicated relationships, strong female friendships, and heart-stopping action. You will cheer for both Selina and Luke, and the twists and turns will shock you. Highly recommended!
Divided We Fall by Trent Reedy
"I am Private First Class Daniel Christopher Write. I am 17 years old, and I fired the shot the ended the United States of America." Joining the National Guard in high school, Danny was just looking for a way to help fund his college and follow in the footsteps of his dad. He had no idea that one misfired shot could leave twelve people dead and ignite a war between the Governor of Idaho and the President of the United States. Now he and the nation has to live with consequences. With an opening line like the one above, you know this book is going to suck you in and keep reading. I have had guys who hated reading whip through this book and ask for the date of the next one, January 2015. Trent Reedy is veteran, and his military experience adds truth to this fast-paced tale of our duty to our country, state, truth, and ourselves. Give this book to anyone looking for something that will keep them hooked from page one.
"I am Private First Class Daniel Christopher Write. I am 17 years old, and I fired the shot the ended the United States of America." Joining the National Guard in high school, Danny was just looking for a way to help fund his college and follow in the footsteps of his dad. He had no idea that one misfired shot could leave twelve people dead and ignite a war between the Governor of Idaho and the President of the United States. Now he and the nation has to live with consequences. With an opening line like the one above, you know this book is going to suck you in and keep reading. I have had guys who hated reading whip through this book and ask for the date of the next one, January 2015. Trent Reedy is veteran, and his military experience adds truth to this fast-paced tale of our duty to our country, state, truth, and ourselves. Give this book to anyone looking for something that will keep them hooked from page one.
Don't Turn Around by Michelle Gagnon
Noa wakes up in hospital-like room with an IV in her arm and a huge scar on her chest. With no memory of how she got there, Noa, a girl whose experiences with foster care has taught her not to trust the system, runs and manages to escape the facility where she was being held. In order to get her life back and bring down the people who experimented on her, Noa teams up with Peter, a fellow hacker with means. As they dig up information, it becomes clear that they have discovered something terrible and massive, and the company behind it will stop at nothing to see their voices silenced. The sequel Don't Look Now is available. Noa is a tough hacker that you will cheer for, and the action is nonstop.
Noa wakes up in hospital-like room with an IV in her arm and a huge scar on her chest. With no memory of how she got there, Noa, a girl whose experiences with foster care has taught her not to trust the system, runs and manages to escape the facility where she was being held. In order to get her life back and bring down the people who experimented on her, Noa teams up with Peter, a fellow hacker with means. As they dig up information, it becomes clear that they have discovered something terrible and massive, and the company behind it will stop at nothing to see their voices silenced. The sequel Don't Look Now is available. Noa is a tough hacker that you will cheer for, and the action is nonstop.
Dry by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman
Feeling thirsty? For most of us in America, a clean and free glass of water is steps away. But what would happen if you turned on your faucet and nothing came out? Would you know where to get water? What would you or anyone be willing to do quench their thirst when the pipes go dry? Shusterman's sci-fi thriller explores how society would combust if the pipes in millions of Southern California homes went dry. Written from a variety of perspectives, you will watch the crisis unfold from they experience of many. You become closest to Alyssa, her younger brother Garrett, and her next door neighbor Kelton as they struggle to find a safe haven and water as the their world falls apart. I listened to this book,which is read by a variety of voice actors, including the Shustermans, and it was of the best audiobooks I have ever listened to. The voice actors perfectly matched their characters. I also love that this book is a stand-alone; no waiting another year for next installment. Anyone who reads this book will not only be pulled in by the thrilling story of survival, but they will think more seriously about the water they are using and wasting. Once again, Neal Shusterman knocks it out of the park. Highly, highly recommended!
Feeling thirsty? For most of us in America, a clean and free glass of water is steps away. But what would happen if you turned on your faucet and nothing came out? Would you know where to get water? What would you or anyone be willing to do quench their thirst when the pipes go dry? Shusterman's sci-fi thriller explores how society would combust if the pipes in millions of Southern California homes went dry. Written from a variety of perspectives, you will watch the crisis unfold from they experience of many. You become closest to Alyssa, her younger brother Garrett, and her next door neighbor Kelton as they struggle to find a safe haven and water as the their world falls apart. I listened to this book,which is read by a variety of voice actors, including the Shustermans, and it was of the best audiobooks I have ever listened to. The voice actors perfectly matched their characters. I also love that this book is a stand-alone; no waiting another year for next installment. Anyone who reads this book will not only be pulled in by the thrilling story of survival, but they will think more seriously about the water they are using and wasting. Once again, Neal Shusterman knocks it out of the park. Highly, highly recommended!
Epic by Conor Kostick
A long time ago, violence was outlawed on New Earth. Instead, all issues were resolved using the online game Epic. Here you could fight someone to resolved disputes and search for treasure to change your status. If you lose everything in the game, your life outside of the game is worthless. However, if you win, your life changes for the better. When Eric and his friends find a way to defeat the dragon and gain huge riches, all the the masters of the game are out to bring them down. If you are into video games, this is a three book series that you cannot put down. The world is imaginative and exciting.
A long time ago, violence was outlawed on New Earth. Instead, all issues were resolved using the online game Epic. Here you could fight someone to resolved disputes and search for treasure to change your status. If you lose everything in the game, your life outside of the game is worthless. However, if you win, your life changes for the better. When Eric and his friends find a way to defeat the dragon and gain huge riches, all the the masters of the game are out to bring them down. If you are into video games, this is a three book series that you cannot put down. The world is imaginative and exciting.
Erebos by Ursula Poznanski
Nick is upset when his friends stop speaking to him and his classmates start acting strangely. When he is handed a disc to secret game known as Erebos, Nick finally has a chance to experience the game that has consumed the lives of his classmates. Once Nick starts playing Erebos, he can see why his friends have been so addicted. The graphics are so real, and the game seems to know you. If you want to increase your score, you are asked to complete tasks in the real world, and if you do not complete them, you will lose access to the game. As the game asks Nick to do more dangerous tasks, Nick has to decide what he will do to win the game and who is controlling the game anyway. A suspenseful exploration of gaming gone wrong, this novel has a fascinating premise and many twists.
Nick is upset when his friends stop speaking to him and his classmates start acting strangely. When he is handed a disc to secret game known as Erebos, Nick finally has a chance to experience the game that has consumed the lives of his classmates. Once Nick starts playing Erebos, he can see why his friends have been so addicted. The graphics are so real, and the game seems to know you. If you want to increase your score, you are asked to complete tasks in the real world, and if you do not complete them, you will lose access to the game. As the game asks Nick to do more dangerous tasks, Nick has to decide what he will do to win the game and who is controlling the game anyway. A suspenseful exploration of gaming gone wrong, this novel has a fascinating premise and many twists.
Full Tilt by Neal Shusterman
Blake and his younger brother are opposites. Blake is studious, hardworking, and excellent at taking care of messes. Quinn is a thrill-seeker with a dark nature and a penchant for making messes. While visiting a local amusement park, they are invited to an "underground" amusement park that promises the scariest rides imaginable. Blake knows it is too dangerous to go there, but when he wakes up in the middle of the night with Quinn gone, he knows has to take care of his brother once again. When Blake arrives at the part, he finds that this is not a normal amusement park. Here, you have to survive seven rides by dawn to make it out alive, and on each ride, you must survive your greatest fear, desire, weakness, etc. This may be one time that Blake can't save his brother. This fast-paced thrill ride will keep readers on the edge of their seat.
Blake and his younger brother are opposites. Blake is studious, hardworking, and excellent at taking care of messes. Quinn is a thrill-seeker with a dark nature and a penchant for making messes. While visiting a local amusement park, they are invited to an "underground" amusement park that promises the scariest rides imaginable. Blake knows it is too dangerous to go there, but when he wakes up in the middle of the night with Quinn gone, he knows has to take care of his brother once again. When Blake arrives at the part, he finds that this is not a normal amusement park. Here, you have to survive seven rides by dawn to make it out alive, and on each ride, you must survive your greatest fear, desire, weakness, etc. This may be one time that Blake can't save his brother. This fast-paced thrill ride will keep readers on the edge of their seat.
I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore
Nine of us came to this world, running away from the creatures who destroyed our home planet and killed our families. The first three have been hunted down and killed. I am number four, and I will be next. However, I will not go without a fight. I have some tough and talented friends, and as my powers continue to manifest, I have become a powerful weapon. But will it be enough? Four books into this series, and I still cannot keep this series on the shelf.
Nine of us came to this world, running away from the creatures who destroyed our home planet and killed our families. The first three have been hunted down and killed. I am number four, and I will be next. However, I will not go without a fight. I have some tough and talented friends, and as my powers continue to manifest, I have become a powerful weapon. But will it be enough? Four books into this series, and I still cannot keep this series on the shelf.
I Am Still Alive by Kate Marshall
Insignia by S. J. Kincaid
Tom is only good at one thing: video games. However, his teacher warns him he needs to get more serious about school because gaming will never get him anywhere. At the same time, World War III is being fought in space with talented, teen gamers. When the military detects Tom's skills, they recruit him for the fight. If Tom wants to be a part of the team, he will have to up a part of himself forever that will give him amazing gifts and make him vullnerable to dangerous attacks. Does Tom have what it takes to be a gamer on a whole different level? A cross of Ender's Game and The Matrix, this book takes you down the delights and dangerous of going down the rabbit hole.
Tom is only good at one thing: video games. However, his teacher warns him he needs to get more serious about school because gaming will never get him anywhere. At the same time, World War III is being fought in space with talented, teen gamers. When the military detects Tom's skills, they recruit him for the fight. If Tom wants to be a part of the team, he will have to up a part of himself forever that will give him amazing gifts and make him vullnerable to dangerous attacks. Does Tom have what it takes to be a gamer on a whole different level? A cross of Ender's Game and The Matrix, this book takes you down the delights and dangerous of going down the rabbit hole.
The Last Thing I Remember by Andrew Klavan
Charlie wakes up tied to a chair and hears men outside plotting to kill him, and he has no idea why. The last thing he remembers is going to school, giving a tae kwon do exhibition, getting the digits of a girl he likes, and going to bed. Now here he is. Using his skills, he manages to escape and learns he has lost an entire year of his life where he was convicted of murdering his best friend and broke out of prison. Now bad guys want him and good guys want him, and he has to figure out why. This four book series is one of the most popular series for guys in my library. The premise and pacing of this book are nail-biting, and you will constantly be surprised about what happens next.
Charlie wakes up tied to a chair and hears men outside plotting to kill him, and he has no idea why. The last thing he remembers is going to school, giving a tae kwon do exhibition, getting the digits of a girl he likes, and going to bed. Now here he is. Using his skills, he manages to escape and learns he has lost an entire year of his life where he was convicted of murdering his best friend and broke out of prison. Now bad guys want him and good guys want him, and he has to figure out why. This four book series is one of the most popular series for guys in my library. The premise and pacing of this book are nail-biting, and you will constantly be surprised about what happens next.
The Living by Matt de la Pena
Shy took a job on a cruise ship to make a lot of money during the summer. He is expecting it to be a summer of fun and flirtation when an earthquake hits the Southern coast of California. When you are hit with a mile high wave, it doesn't matter if you have a life jacket, enough life boats, and have done the training. the cruel hands of fate are the only things that decide who lives and who dies. Shy ends up in a lifeboat with a dying man, a spoiled girl, and no food. Lost and adrift in the ocean, they will have to fight to stay a part of the living. If you love survival stories, this is a harrowing one. As huge waves pound the ship, you feel yourself struggling not to drown and fighting hysteria like the other characters in the book. The only thing I did not like about the book is that it had a cliffhanger ending with plans for a sequel. Grrrrrr!
Shy took a job on a cruise ship to make a lot of money during the summer. He is expecting it to be a summer of fun and flirtation when an earthquake hits the Southern coast of California. When you are hit with a mile high wave, it doesn't matter if you have a life jacket, enough life boats, and have done the training. the cruel hands of fate are the only things that decide who lives and who dies. Shy ends up in a lifeboat with a dying man, a spoiled girl, and no food. Lost and adrift in the ocean, they will have to fight to stay a part of the living. If you love survival stories, this is a harrowing one. As huge waves pound the ship, you feel yourself struggling not to drown and fighting hysteria like the other characters in the book. The only thing I did not like about the book is that it had a cliffhanger ending with plans for a sequel. Grrrrrr!
Lockdown: Escape from Furnace by Alexander Gordon Smith
Welcome to hell! Hell is Furnace Prison. A prison located one mile beneath the surface of the earth and designed to house the most dangerous juvenile offenders. In Furnace Prison, the prison guards are not quite human, and you never know when someone is going to disappear never to be seen again. Alex is being sent to Furnace Prison because he was convicted of murdering his best friend. Although he has been in trouble with the law before, this time he is innocent; he did not kill his best friend. However, how do you escape hell? And if Alex can't figure out how to do it, then he will be the next one to disappear. This is the most popular series for guys at my library. Shocking twists, grotesque characters, and non-stop action make this five book series a winner for even those who despise reading.
Welcome to hell! Hell is Furnace Prison. A prison located one mile beneath the surface of the earth and designed to house the most dangerous juvenile offenders. In Furnace Prison, the prison guards are not quite human, and you never know when someone is going to disappear never to be seen again. Alex is being sent to Furnace Prison because he was convicted of murdering his best friend. Although he has been in trouble with the law before, this time he is innocent; he did not kill his best friend. However, how do you escape hell? And if Alex can't figure out how to do it, then he will be the next one to disappear. This is the most popular series for guys at my library. Shocking twists, grotesque characters, and non-stop action make this five book series a winner for even those who despise reading.
Monument 14 by Emmy Laybourne
Imagine if today before school was the last time you saw your mother? What would be her last memories of you? Did you fight with her, ignore her or tell her you love her? Would you have any regrets? On a seemingly normal day, a group of kids on their way to school are separated from their families when a chemical explosion rocks their town. Hiding away in a superstore, this motley group must try to get along and work together if any of them have a chance of seeing their mothers again. This is like Lord of the Flies set in Super Walmart with girls allowed on the island. Bad things happen! You will fly through this book and get sucked into the second.
Imagine if today before school was the last time you saw your mother? What would be her last memories of you? Did you fight with her, ignore her or tell her you love her? Would you have any regrets? On a seemingly normal day, a group of kids on their way to school are separated from their families when a chemical explosion rocks their town. Hiding away in a superstore, this motley group must try to get along and work together if any of them have a chance of seeing their mothers again. This is like Lord of the Flies set in Super Walmart with girls allowed on the island. Bad things happen! You will fly through this book and get sucked into the second.
Phoenix Island by John Dixon
Carl hates bullies. A champion boxer with a short temper, Carl uses his skills to punish bullies for their crimes. Unfortunately, his fights have landed this foster kid in trouble time and time again. Finally, the court has decided Carl needs to be sent to Phoenix Island, a terminal facility for juvenile delinquents with no home or future. Once there, Carl and the other kids quickly that Phoenix Island is not your typical boot camp. At Phoenix Island, no one cares if you are tortured to death. No one is treated fairly, and no one is getting off the island without being changed forever. When Carl refuses to follow orders and ends up in the hospital, known as the "Chop Shop," he learns just how much Phoenix Island can change a person, for good and for bad. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book! Carl is the person everyone wishes they could be, able to stand up and fight for their beliefs. You cannot stop yourself from respecting him as he is willing to die in order to be true to his ideals. I can't wait to find out what happens to him in the next books! The action was non-stop, and I was shocked and horrified by the plot twists. Phoenix Island will sucker punch you and leave you begging for more. Libraries should buy multiple copies because guys are going to love this book. Highly recommended!
Carl hates bullies. A champion boxer with a short temper, Carl uses his skills to punish bullies for their crimes. Unfortunately, his fights have landed this foster kid in trouble time and time again. Finally, the court has decided Carl needs to be sent to Phoenix Island, a terminal facility for juvenile delinquents with no home or future. Once there, Carl and the other kids quickly that Phoenix Island is not your typical boot camp. At Phoenix Island, no one cares if you are tortured to death. No one is treated fairly, and no one is getting off the island without being changed forever. When Carl refuses to follow orders and ends up in the hospital, known as the "Chop Shop," he learns just how much Phoenix Island can change a person, for good and for bad. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book! Carl is the person everyone wishes they could be, able to stand up and fight for their beliefs. You cannot stop yourself from respecting him as he is willing to die in order to be true to his ideals. I can't wait to find out what happens to him in the next books! The action was non-stop, and I was shocked and horrified by the plot twists. Phoenix Island will sucker punch you and leave you begging for more. Libraries should buy multiple copies because guys are going to love this book. Highly recommended!
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
In a futuristic world, most humans spend all their time OASIS, an online world where people attend school, work, make friends, play, and search for the secret treasure. When James Halliday, the creator of OASIS, died years ago, he created an elaborate set of riddles and games, and the person who first solves them is set to inherit the game and his fortune. For years, everyone has studied Halliday's obsessions and life to find the first piece of the puzzle, but no one has been successful. Then Wade Watts, a boy with no money and a lot of smarts, stumbles onto the first clue. Suddenly, the chase to solve the puzzle is on, and the dangers of the game start following him into the real world. Does Wade have the skills to win it all and change his life forever? This imaginative novel is a mature version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory as the real world and the world of "pure imagination" collide. The language is so vivid that you can smell the stink of the real world and sigh over the possibilities of OASIS. Get lost in this book!
In a futuristic world, most humans spend all their time OASIS, an online world where people attend school, work, make friends, play, and search for the secret treasure. When James Halliday, the creator of OASIS, died years ago, he created an elaborate set of riddles and games, and the person who first solves them is set to inherit the game and his fortune. For years, everyone has studied Halliday's obsessions and life to find the first piece of the puzzle, but no one has been successful. Then Wade Watts, a boy with no money and a lot of smarts, stumbles onto the first clue. Suddenly, the chase to solve the puzzle is on, and the dangers of the game start following him into the real world. Does Wade have the skills to win it all and change his life forever? This imaginative novel is a mature version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory as the real world and the world of "pure imagination" collide. The language is so vivid that you can smell the stink of the real world and sigh over the possibilities of OASIS. Get lost in this book!
Renegades by Marissa Meyer
The Renegades are a group of humans with super-human abilities. They rose up to protect society when anarchy, led by Ace Anarchy super villain, threatened to destroy everything. To most, the Renegades are heroes, but to Nova, they are the enemy. When a prodigy gang slaughtered her family, the Renegades couldn't save them, but Ace Anarchy, her uncle, protected her. Raised by Anarchists, Nova has spent her life planning revenge. In order to fulfill her plans, she must befriend Adrian, a Renegade who is honest and just and makes her question everything she believed to be true about the Renegades. As her plans progress, Nova has to decide whether Anarchists or Renegades are the greatest evil and how far she is willing to go to avenge their deaths. Author of the amazing Lunar Chronicles series, Meyer has once again created a world and characters that will mesmerize you. Adrian's earnest quest for justice is a good foil to Nova's jaded outlook on all Renegades, and I was pulled into the tale as they tried to find their true paths. The only bad thing is that I have to wait another year for the next book! Highly recommended!
The Renegades are a group of humans with super-human abilities. They rose up to protect society when anarchy, led by Ace Anarchy super villain, threatened to destroy everything. To most, the Renegades are heroes, but to Nova, they are the enemy. When a prodigy gang slaughtered her family, the Renegades couldn't save them, but Ace Anarchy, her uncle, protected her. Raised by Anarchists, Nova has spent her life planning revenge. In order to fulfill her plans, she must befriend Adrian, a Renegade who is honest and just and makes her question everything she believed to be true about the Renegades. As her plans progress, Nova has to decide whether Anarchists or Renegades are the greatest evil and how far she is willing to go to avenge their deaths. Author of the amazing Lunar Chronicles series, Meyer has once again created a world and characters that will mesmerize you. Adrian's earnest quest for justice is a good foil to Nova's jaded outlook on all Renegades, and I was pulled into the tale as they tried to find their true paths. The only bad thing is that I have to wait another year for the next book! Highly recommended!
Sythe by Neal Shusterman
Neal Shusterman's stunning novel, Scythe, is set in future world where they have cured death. If you get a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis, they can cure you. If you get hit by a bus, they can put you back together. Whatever happens, they can bring you back. Of course, with no one dying and everyone having babies, the world would quickly become overpopulated. Therefore, the world's leaders came together and created scythes. These are people who decide who is to be killed and not brought back. The scythe's live by a set of commandments very different from our own. #1: Thou shalt kill. #2: Thou shalt kill with no bias, bigotry, or malice aforethought. #3: Thou shalt grant an annum of immunity to the beloved of those who accept your coming. (This means if you do not resist your death, your family will have one year of protection from death.) #4. Thou shalt kill the beloved of those who resist. (If you fight death, the scythes will kill you and all you love.) This is the story of teens who have been chosen to be trained as scythes. As they get deeper in their training, they discover that when humans play god, bad things happen. I read this book over a year ago, and somehow, I never blogged about it even though it was one of the best books I had read in ages. Shusterman is the Willy Wonka of the teen literature world as he creates innovative plots in a world where there tends to be a lot of repetition. Prepare to be shocked and spellbound as you are sucked into this futuristic world where getting our greatest wish, a freedom from death, causes even greater suffering. The sequel, Thunderhead, was just published, and it has received rave reviews from my students. My students devour Scythe like candy and beg for more. I join them in saying, "Neal Shusterman, please, please keep writing your amazing novels!" Highly recommended!
Neal Shusterman's stunning novel, Scythe, is set in future world where they have cured death. If you get a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis, they can cure you. If you get hit by a bus, they can put you back together. Whatever happens, they can bring you back. Of course, with no one dying and everyone having babies, the world would quickly become overpopulated. Therefore, the world's leaders came together and created scythes. These are people who decide who is to be killed and not brought back. The scythe's live by a set of commandments very different from our own. #1: Thou shalt kill. #2: Thou shalt kill with no bias, bigotry, or malice aforethought. #3: Thou shalt grant an annum of immunity to the beloved of those who accept your coming. (This means if you do not resist your death, your family will have one year of protection from death.) #4. Thou shalt kill the beloved of those who resist. (If you fight death, the scythes will kill you and all you love.) This is the story of teens who have been chosen to be trained as scythes. As they get deeper in their training, they discover that when humans play god, bad things happen. I read this book over a year ago, and somehow, I never blogged about it even though it was one of the best books I had read in ages. Shusterman is the Willy Wonka of the teen literature world as he creates innovative plots in a world where there tends to be a lot of repetition. Prepare to be shocked and spellbound as you are sucked into this futuristic world where getting our greatest wish, a freedom from death, causes even greater suffering. The sequel, Thunderhead, was just published, and it has received rave reviews from my students. My students devour Scythe like candy and beg for more. I join them in saying, "Neal Shusterman, please, please keep writing your amazing novels!" Highly recommended!
Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson
Uncle Ben said that "With great power comes great responsibility." Therefore, when an Event transforms certain humans into indestructible superheroes. Davids's dad, like most humans, are excited to have strong protectors that will save humankind. What they have forgotten is that in the real world absolute power corrupts absolutely. When David watches his dad and a room full of innocent humans get murdered by the "hero" Steelheart, David vows that one day he will discover his weakness and destroy him. With the help of the Reckoners, a group of humans working together to bring down the tyrants, David may finally get a chance to get revenge for his father's death. By far, the best action book out in 2013. I can't wait for book two. This is the anti-superhero book where superpowers make you superbad. A provocative idea.
Uncle Ben said that "With great power comes great responsibility." Therefore, when an Event transforms certain humans into indestructible superheroes. Davids's dad, like most humans, are excited to have strong protectors that will save humankind. What they have forgotten is that in the real world absolute power corrupts absolutely. When David watches his dad and a room full of innocent humans get murdered by the "hero" Steelheart, David vows that one day he will discover his weakness and destroy him. With the help of the Reckoners, a group of humans working together to bring down the tyrants, David may finally get a chance to get revenge for his father's death. By far, the best action book out in 2013. I can't wait for book two. This is the anti-superhero book where superpowers make you superbad. A provocative idea.
Stranded by Melinda Braun
Sylo by DJ MacHale
Tucker lives on picturesque Pemberwick Island of the coast of Maine. Desperate to become a faster and stronger football player, Tucker agrees to try "the Ruby," a mysterious red crystal that gives him amazing speed and strength and dangerous side-effects. Days later, SYLO, a special branch of the US military, takes over the island warning residents that a deadly virus is loose there. Residents are warned that no one is to leave, but when Tucker and his friends witness soldiers killing someone attempting to flee the island, they realize that situation is out of control. With communication with the mainland completely cut off, Tucker and his friends must try to solve the mystery behind what SYLO is doing and get off the island to find help. However, SYLO will stop at nothing to keep them silent. A inventive, new suspense story from a popular author, this book is full of great twists and turns. Like Tucker, you won'
Tucker lives on picturesque Pemberwick Island of the coast of Maine. Desperate to become a faster and stronger football player, Tucker agrees to try "the Ruby," a mysterious red crystal that gives him amazing speed and strength and dangerous side-effects. Days later, SYLO, a special branch of the US military, takes over the island warning residents that a deadly virus is loose there. Residents are warned that no one is to leave, but when Tucker and his friends witness soldiers killing someone attempting to flee the island, they realize that situation is out of control. With communication with the mainland completely cut off, Tucker and his friends must try to solve the mystery behind what SYLO is doing and get off the island to find help. However, SYLO will stop at nothing to keep them silent. A inventive, new suspense story from a popular author, this book is full of great twists and turns. Like Tucker, you won'
Thirteen Days to Midnight from Patrick Carman
If you were indestructible what would you do? Who would you choose to save with your powers? When Jacob's foster dad tells him "You are indestructible." seconds before they slam into a tree, Jacob walks away without a scratch, and his foster dad does not survive. Jacob tests his powers and finds he can survive nearly anything. When his friends learn about his gifts, they work together to locate people to save. However, for everyone person saved, there are a hundred more he can't help. Jacob has tough choices ahead.
If you were indestructible what would you do? Who would you choose to save with your powers? When Jacob's foster dad tells him "You are indestructible." seconds before they slam into a tree, Jacob walks away without a scratch, and his foster dad does not survive. Jacob tests his powers and finds he can survive nearly anything. When his friends learn about his gifts, they work together to locate people to save. However, for everyone person saved, there are a hundred more he can't help. Jacob has tough choices ahead.
The Twelve-Fingered Boy by John Hornor Jacobs
Imagine being born with twelve fingers. For you entire life you would be mocked and abused for being different. Jack, a boy with twelve fingers and toes, has dealt with abuse his entire life. Unfortunately, Jack has other unusual gifts. When he gets angry or scared, bad things happen to the people hurting him. This gift has landed him in juvie with Shreve. Shreve is a fast-talking kid who has a great set up in juvie selling kids contraband candy. As he and and Jack become friends, Shreve realizes Jack has superpowers, and when Mr. Quincrux and his friends try to steal Jack away, the boys go on the run for lives. For those students who loved the Lockdown or Cirque du Freak series, this is not series to pick up. The writing is funny, fast-paced, and inventive. The evil powers and plans of Mr. Quincrux and co. are horrifying. You will cheer for Jack and Shreve as they become friends, run for lives, and discover the true extent of their powers. The second book arrives this spring, and I can't wait to read it.
Imagine being born with twelve fingers. For you entire life you would be mocked and abused for being different. Jack, a boy with twelve fingers and toes, has dealt with abuse his entire life. Unfortunately, Jack has other unusual gifts. When he gets angry or scared, bad things happen to the people hurting him. This gift has landed him in juvie with Shreve. Shreve is a fast-talking kid who has a great set up in juvie selling kids contraband candy. As he and and Jack become friends, Shreve realizes Jack has superpowers, and when Mr. Quincrux and his friends try to steal Jack away, the boys go on the run for lives. For those students who loved the Lockdown or Cirque du Freak series, this is not series to pick up. The writing is funny, fast-paced, and inventive. The evil powers and plans of Mr. Quincrux and co. are horrifying. You will cheer for Jack and Shreve as they become friends, run for lives, and discover the true extent of their powers. The second book arrives this spring, and I can't wait to read it.
Unwind by Neal Shusterman
In the future, if you are ages 13-17 and your parents are tied of you getting in trouble or not taking life seriously or the government decides you are not a valuable enough resource to keep feeding, you can be unwound. Getting unwound means that you are surgically cut apart, and your body parts are donated to others. Therefore, you have not been killed; you are just alive in a new format. Connor is being unwound for all the trouble he keeps getting into, Risa does not have enough value for the government to keep feeding her, and Liev being tithed as a religious sacrifice by his family. When they run from their fates, will they have the skills and help to keep from getting unwound? This thought-provoking story is my favorite from Neal Shusterman. The situation is horrifying and yet scarily plausible. You can just read book one in the series with enjoyment, or you can keep reading the quartet, scheduled to be finished next fall.
In the future, if you are ages 13-17 and your parents are tied of you getting in trouble or not taking life seriously or the government decides you are not a valuable enough resource to keep feeding, you can be unwound. Getting unwound means that you are surgically cut apart, and your body parts are donated to others. Therefore, you have not been killed; you are just alive in a new format. Connor is being unwound for all the trouble he keeps getting into, Risa does not have enough value for the government to keep feeding her, and Liev being tithed as a religious sacrifice by his family. When they run from their fates, will they have the skills and help to keep from getting unwound? This thought-provoking story is my favorite from Neal Shusterman. The situation is horrifying and yet scarily plausible. You can just read book one in the series with enjoyment, or you can keep reading the quartet, scheduled to be finished next fall.
Variant by Robison Wells
When Benson Fischer got accepted, he thought his life was going to change for the better. Upon arrival to the school, Benson began to be concerned about the school hes was attending. As he arrived to the school, he saw the school was surrounded by a barbed wire fence, usually associated with detention centers not elite boarding schools. When they arrive, the driver does not enter the school with him, and no adults greet him. Benson is getting more nervous. Once inside, he learns the horrible truth. Now that he started Maxfield Academy, he can never leave. With a curriculum prescribed some outside group and run by students, no one has made it off the school grounds alve. Despite the dire news, Benson promises that he will be the first to uncover the secrets behind the school's existence and make it out alive. The truths he unearths are unbelievable. Again, this is a book you cannot put down. Great twists and likable characters will make you cheer for Benson and his friends as they work to get rid of the evil around them.
When Benson Fischer got accepted, he thought his life was going to change for the better. Upon arrival to the school, Benson began to be concerned about the school hes was attending. As he arrived to the school, he saw the school was surrounded by a barbed wire fence, usually associated with detention centers not elite boarding schools. When they arrive, the driver does not enter the school with him, and no adults greet him. Benson is getting more nervous. Once inside, he learns the horrible truth. Now that he started Maxfield Academy, he can never leave. With a curriculum prescribed some outside group and run by students, no one has made it off the school grounds alve. Despite the dire news, Benson promises that he will be the first to uncover the secrets behind the school's existence and make it out alive. The truths he unearths are unbelievable. Again, this is a book you cannot put down. Great twists and likable characters will make you cheer for Benson and his friends as they work to get rid of the evil around them.
Warcross by Marie Lu
Warcross is more than a game; it is a way of life. Struggling to pay her bills, Emika Chan takes a risk and hacks into the International Warcross Championships and accidentally glitches herself into the game. Instead of getting arrested, the creator of Warcross, billionaire Hideo Tanaka, requests a meeting. Hideo reveals that Warcross is getting attacked, and he wants Emiko to discover who is doing it and why. As she follows the clues, Emiko is realizing that the consequences to this Warcross game will not only change the game but her world forever. This action-packed video game adventure is impossible to put down. This is my favorite Lu series, and I can't wait to see what will happen next! Highly recommended!
Warcross is more than a game; it is a way of life. Struggling to pay her bills, Emika Chan takes a risk and hacks into the International Warcross Championships and accidentally glitches herself into the game. Instead of getting arrested, the creator of Warcross, billionaire Hideo Tanaka, requests a meeting. Hideo reveals that Warcross is getting attacked, and he wants Emiko to discover who is doing it and why. As she follows the clues, Emiko is realizing that the consequences to this Warcross game will not only change the game but her world forever. This action-packed video game adventure is impossible to put down. This is my favorite Lu series, and I can't wait to see what will happen next! Highly recommended!
Zeroboxer by Fonda Lee
At age 17, Carl "the Raptor" Luca has only lost one fight, and as he continues to win, he has to prove he the smarts and strength to defeat more experienced and successful opponents. Carl's match-ups are even more exciting that a traditional MMA bout. Set in the future, Carl is a zeroboxer, where opponents use MMA style moves and flying in a zero gravity cube where they fight. Fights are held on the moon, Mars, and other colonized planets, and the sport is just gaining popularity on earth, mostly due to Carl's success. Carl is one of the first earthborns to be successful in this athletic and dangerous sport. As his fame grows, Carl learns some dark secrets about the sport, and what he does with this information could change life in this universe for good. With action-packed fight scenes, plot twists, and well-developed characters, this action-packed mystery should be a huge hit for fans of boxing, MMA, and action. It was fast-paced and fantastic. Highly recommended!
At age 17, Carl "the Raptor" Luca has only lost one fight, and as he continues to win, he has to prove he the smarts and strength to defeat more experienced and successful opponents. Carl's match-ups are even more exciting that a traditional MMA bout. Set in the future, Carl is a zeroboxer, where opponents use MMA style moves and flying in a zero gravity cube where they fight. Fights are held on the moon, Mars, and other colonized planets, and the sport is just gaining popularity on earth, mostly due to Carl's success. Carl is one of the first earthborns to be successful in this athletic and dangerous sport. As his fame grows, Carl learns some dark secrets about the sport, and what he does with this information could change life in this universe for good. With action-packed fight scenes, plot twists, and well-developed characters, this action-packed mystery should be a huge hit for fans of boxing, MMA, and action. It was fast-paced and fantastic. Highly recommended!