“Skellig” by David Almond

TEEN LIBRARIAN'S REVIEW:

If you're into supernatural stories (like "Coraline" … see below), then you might also like "Skellig." Michael's family's new house in England contains a broken-down garage that he's expressly forbidden to enter. Needless to say, it's the first place Michael explores! Inside, he finds what he first believes to be an older, sick, homeless man. As Michael's relationship with the man (Skellig) and with his home-schooled neighbor (Mina) develops, we soon learn that things aren't at all as they first appeared. After Skellig's health improves under Michael and Mina's care, could it be possible that he actually sprouts wings, like a bird? Can Skellig fly? More importantly, what exactly is Skellig? And can he help save the life of Michael's baby sister? This is a book that raises a lot of questions about education, evolution, family, friendship, and love. It's a good read that will make you think, too!

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“Coraline” by Neil Gaiman

TEEN LIBRARIAN'S REVIEW:

Gaiman is the author of "The Sandman" series of graphic novels, as well as general fiction works like "American Gods" and "Anansi Boys." Most of his stories deal with elements of the supernatural, and "Coraline" is no exception. Coraline and her very busy and preoccupied parents have just moved into a new flat (apartment) in England. A hidden key and a secret door lead Coraline to another world that looks like her own, but which is actually twisted and quite bad. When Coraline's parents get trapped there, it's up to Coraline to use her wits and her bravery to save her parents, free some imprisoned children (er, their souls, that is), and do battle with her evil "other mother." A good book if you like to be a little scared — but not too much. "Coraline" is just creepy enough to keep you reading!

 

The “Bloody Jack” series by LA Meyer

TEEN LIBRARIAN'S REVIEW:

The three books in this series follow Mary "Jacky" Faber as she moves from young orphan in London to Ship's Boy (that's right, she's disguised as a BOY) in the Royal Navy, to student at a proper girls' school in Boston, to yet another adventure on the high seas. Read along as Jacky challenges pirates, wins a horse race, sets a trap for a killer, and even becomes captain of her own ship. You'll fall in love with this bold, fun, and adventurous heroine who has a big heart but a terrible knack for getting into — and out of — trouble.

Have you read these books? What do you think?