Cloudette by Tom Lichtenheld
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
As a petite person, I am probably genetically inclined to love this cute little story about a small cloud’s journey to make a BIG difference. So far, it’s the best book I’ve read this year. ^_^
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The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I beg you to read this book before you watch the film “Hugo.” It only took me about an hour to read since much of it is illustrated. The story and illustrations are riveting and are a testament to the power of the book as format. This book is a work of art and you should try to enjoy it as it is because your view will no doubt be influenced by Scorsese’s interpretation if you watch the film first.
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A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Long, but crazy good, even with all the milording and miladying, which still makes me giggle.
Wonderfully strong female characters, especially for a fantasy novel; seriously, where have you been all my life? Especially when I was a teen? (Maybe I should’ve asked my local librarian back then.)
I started watching the show, as well, and was trying to hold off on reading ahead, but in typical me fashion, I failed and am already starting book two, even though I’m only up to episode 4 in the series, ha!
Really fantastic pacing, plot, descriptions (every time I read a bit, I want to go eat meat and drink beer afterwards), characters, dialogue and vocabulary – two of my new favorite words are now smallclothes and smallfolk, but I am probably biased because I am a small person. 
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The Passage by Justin Cronin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Very long (especially when compared to YA novels), but worth it. Reminded me a little of Dune with its mysticism, power, and alternate history/future. Can’t wait to read the next installment!
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Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Anya’s self-consciousness and loneliness are spot-on and the mystery surrounding her new, ghostly friend moves the story forward quickly. Fun art & dialogue + creepy plot + sassy yet imperfect heroine = perfect addition to most teen graphic novel collections, especially in communities with significant Russian and/or immigrant populations.
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The Sixth Gun: Book 1 -Cold Dead Fingers by Cullen Bunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely LOVED this book. I never would have thought that an occult Western could work, but this title did it. Perfect for fans of creepy titles like Locke & Key, Secret Six, etc. Lots of action, lots of horror, lots of thrill, and lots of anticipation for the volumes to come.
Giddyup, ghost cowboys, I need vol. 2!!!
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Out from Boneville by Jeff Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I originally read this volume years ago, when I saw that it was on a million and a half Best Comics Ever lists.
I distinctly remember that at the time, I really didn’t like it and in fact, was disappointed and surprised that it had made all of those lists! I didn’t know what a bone creature was, their stupid names turned me off, and it weirded me out that a creature called Bone was in love with a human girl. (I have a real hang-up with what I consider stupid names. Due to this, it took me years and years to finally read Tolkien even though I love high fantasy.)
Despite my own hang-up with the series, I added it to my library’s graphic novel collection, where it’s been wildly popular with 4th-6th grade boys. I recently replaced all of the raggedy copies of the series at my branch and decided to give it another chance, due to the mad love given to it by the kids.
And so, just like my experience with Tolkien, Bone’s brilliance was finally revealed to me. I’ve pretty much spent the last week (especially since I was home sick the past two days), reading vols. 1-9 + Rose.
I’m still kinda meh about Thorn and Phoney, but Fone, Bartleby, Smiley, Lucius and especially Gran’ma Ben are pretty awesome. I also really like the idea of dragons with pompom ears. They remind me of comfy slippers.
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Page by Paige by Laura Lee Gulledge
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This title’s charm and potential to positively influence shy, artistic teens overcomes its self-indulgence.
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The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Reviewing for Young Adult Reviewers of Southern California
VG/A (Very Good/Average Reading Level)
Robots! Cyborgs! Corsets! Scientists! Inventors! Awesome names like Finley Jane and Griffin King!
The lovely outfits, alluring language and steampunk Victoriana of
Kady Cross’ action-packed debut YA novel are sure to please fans of Cassandra Clare or the Luxe series. The run up to the reveal is so full of whizz-bang gadgetry and fun, you can overlook the fact that the reveal itself is only so-so.
Highly recommended for those looking for a bit of edge in their light summer reads.
Filed under literature, reviews, young adult
Spoiled by Heather Cocks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
From the sassy fashion gurus behind the brilliant blog Go Fug Yourself comes an equally sassy (and fashionable, of course) debut YA novel remniscent of Gossip Girl, but with better weather, more timely fashion, and more heart.
Spoiled nails the complexity of family, authenticity, fashion, and teen life in Los Angeles, all with a hefty dash of Hollywood fantasy. It’s also a particularly gleeful read if you follow their blog, as there are a few “guest appearances” by a few of the blog’s favorite fugs.
Highly recommended for fans of the Poseur series, wannabe fashionistas, Angelenos (or wannabe Angelenos), and those looking for a fun beach read this summer.
