Kathy

The Golden Compass – A wonderful fantasy adventure about a girl who joins forces with gyptians, witches and armored bears to save kidnapped children and free her father. I can’t wait to read the next book in the 3-part series.

Bruce

Rock star, Superstar by Blake Nelson – Main character, Pete, is an excellent bass guitar player in his high school jazz band. He values quality music, but his big chance at stardom comes in a band with guys who have connections in the business, but can’t sing or play. Should Pete sell out and go for the chance at money, fame, and the lifestyle of a rock star, or stand up for quality music? A side story about Pete’s girlfriend and love life seems authentic and adds another dimension to the story.

Bruce

Ball Don’t Lie – Foster kid, Sticky, can play ball, but can he overcome his tragic past, poverty, and loneliness? The guys at the Lincoln Rec Center think he might be the best they’ve seen, some want to see him make it, some want to drag him down. Former D-1 baskeball player Matt de la Pena has written the most realistic basketball book I’ve read in a long time.

Bruce

Heir Apparent by Vivian Vande Velde is an enjoyable read about a girl who becomes trapped in a virtual reality arcade game called Heir Apparent.  Main character Giannine Bellisario assumes the role of shepherd Janine de St. Jehan, illegitimate daughter of the late king.  She will become the new king if she can survive constant threats, including potential warfare and perhaps even a dragon.  Each time Giannine’s character in the game “dies,” she must start back at the beginning, making more informed choices and using her developing diplomacy to unite her kingdom and win the game. While she is in the game, censorship crusaders damage the equipment at the gaming center and Giannine’s life may be in danger. Now she must win the game to escape with her life. All in all, a clever story with a strong female character and a good message.

Bruce

The movie Beowulf is out and I just read Grendel by John Gardner. Grendel is the monster in Beowulf and the book is written from his point of view. It is a bit dark and depressing, but very well written…an interesting character study of Grendel, the ultimate outcast misfit.