Quarkbeasts (and Jennifer Strange) return! Hip, hip, hooray!

The Song of the Quarkbeast: The Chronicles of Kazam Book 2 by Jasper Fforde 

Harcourt, September 3, 2013

Book two of The Chronicles of Kazam is finally here! Jennifer Strange is back and King Snodd is back to causing trouble for her. This time, there are more Quarkbeasts, trolls, political shenanigans, and even a contest versus imagic. Jasper Fforde's books are the perfect blend of smart and funny. Even adults who like the Thursday Next Series should check out Kazam! 

The first book in this series was the tightest book I've read in a long while. The second volume isn't quite as good, but still enjoyable. Jasper Fforde is definitely on my list of "authors whose books I will always buy".  In this case, I picked up a paperback copy when I was in London because galleys weren't yet ready in the United States...

Holly Black's new YA series

 

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black

A vampire story like none you've ever read. Gritty, dark, and dangerous, Coldtowns are the quarantined areas where predators and prey live. There's a air of glamor about them, but also hunger, fear, and sickness. Tana wants nothing to do with Coldtowns, but after a party gone terribly wrong, she finds it's the only place left for her to go. I could not put this book down! Even if you dislike vampires, give this book a chance- you won't be disappointed!

The sequel to Raven Boys!

The Dream Thieves: Book II of the Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater 

Scholastic,

I couldn't wait to read this book, and now I'm eagerly awaiting the next installment. In The Dream Thieves, Maggie Stiefvater continues the story she began in The Raven Boys. Blue, Gansey, and the boys are still looking for the sleeping king Glendower. But the stakes are rising as others realize the powers of the wakened lay lines, powers that are affected by Ronan's terrifying dreams. Ronan may be sulky and he may always tell the truth, but he also has a secret: he can take things from his dreams. Fans of The Raven Boys will seize The Dream Thieves and it will leave them hungering for more. 

* I'd like to point out that this is a great example of a YA book cover. It's illustrated, gender-neutral, and reads well from a distance. Not a huge fan of the type, but the illustration is fabulous. Scholastic, I would pay up to $35 for this book if it came with black and white interior illustrations by the same illustrator. 

Two new books from Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka

Daisy Gets Lost by Chris Raschka

Random House, October 2013

In the sequel to Raschka's Caldecott Medal-winning A Ball for Daisy, Daisy chases after a squirrel and into the forest where she becomes lost! Whatever will Daisy and her owner do? With only two words, luscious colors, expressive brushstrokes, and masterful framing, Raschka tells an emotional story of loss and joy. I can't wait to share this beautiful book with readers of all ages!

When Lions Roar by Robie H. Harris, illustrated by Chris Raschka 

Scholastic, September 2013

Sometimes sounds can be overwhelming, building until it is all too much. But the young protagonist in When Lions Roar knows what to do when this happens, he takes a moment for himself and tells the world to go away. While the world doesn't just disappear, it is easier to handle. Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka paints fluid, expressive illustrations. Like Harris' text, they deliver emotions with bold yet simple clarity.

Simply delectable

I grabbed a galley at a BEA galley grab. This is not something I normally do, but simply had to read this. I finished it on the bus home and my mom read it that night. Yes, it's that enjoyable! 

 

Curtsies & Conspiracies: Finishing School Book the Second by Gail Carriger

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, November 2013

Sophronia is back in the second finishing school book. In a school of espionage, there's always something afoot (and afloat). New technology is being stolen, the girls are snubbing Sophronia, someone is trying to kidnap Dimity, and the entire school is headed to London for scientific experiments- and a ball! Somehow, it's all related, and it's up to Sophronia to discover the conspiracy. As if this isn't enough, there's also the flirtations of a Lord to deal with. The Finishing School Books are a delectable mix of frippery, fun, deviousness, and danger.

Cynthia Voigt!

Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things by Cynthia Voigt 

Random House, September 2013

Max's parents are actors, so he's grown up playing many roles. When his parents disappear, Max draws on these roles (and their costumes) as he attempts to solve the mystery of their disappearance. While he discovers little of his parents, Max manages to solve a number of other problems that wander into his life, proving he may be more capable than he thinks. Newbery Medalist Cynthia Voigt has written a sweet mystery perfect for family reading.

Another great graphic novel from First Second!

Battling Boy by Paul Pope

Humanity is plagued by monsters. Some snatch children and others eat metal. When the hero Haggard West dies trying to fight the monsters, the hero world on high sends down Battling Boy for his rambling (test), giving him only a place to stay and twelve t-shirts, each with a different trait. Battling Boy may be superhuman, but he's still just a kid. Quickly paced, readers will be pulled into the story only to linger over Pope's stunning drawings and original monsters. While I've already started to reread, the sequel can't come soon enough.

Beginning Reader Branches Book

The Notebook of Doom #1: Rise of the Balloon Goons by Troy CummingsWhen Alexander moves to a new town, he's certain something is wrong. He's right to be frightened. Tires deflate, balloons appear to launch menacing attacks...and he's found a notebook containing, well, creatures that bring certain DOOM! Troy Cummings' new series strikes a perfect balance of silly and scary. Recent readers will feel assured by the balance of text and illustration in Branches books and excited when they're able to read an entire series of chapter books alone.

Fact-paced, exciting, and humorous, The Notebook of Doom will have even reluctant readers excited for the next installment.

More Bink & Gollie!

Bink & Gollie Best Friends Forever
Before you open this book you must find someone to read it aloud to, or find a young reader to read it to you. Why? As Bink & Gollie know, laughter is better with a friend. Bink and Gollie are back in their third book. Though they may not always see things eye to eye (I mean, Bink is a great deal shorter than Gollie) they always realize being friends is the most important thing in the world-- even more important than pancakes or princesses. Tony Fucile's lively illustrations expand upon the text, adding humor and energy. I hope DiCamillo, McGhee, and Fucile continue the series; every book has been pitch-perfect!

More beautiful illustrations from Stephen Savage

Polar Bear Morning by Lauren Thompson, illustrated by Stephen Savage
The companion to Polar Bear Night, Polar Bear Morning finds the little cub out exploring her world. The day holds much in store: other creatures, activities, and even a new friend. Savage's illustrations feature bold shapes and surprising palettes that set an immediate mood for each spread. Even infants will be drawn to the simple forms and playful colors. Simple text and illustrations combine to create a beautiful book that would make a great baby shower gift.

Remember how great Grave Mercy was?

Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers
I devoured Gravy Mercy, the first in Robin LaFever's His Fair Assassin Series. Dark Triumph is even better and you don't have to read Grave Mercy to plunge in. At the convent for the daughters of Death, Sybella not only learned an assassin's skills, but healed from her life. When her training was complete, the nuns sent Sybella back to the house she grew up in-- back to her terrifying father and conniving brothers. At home, there's no one she can trust and her only enjoyment comes from delivering justice-- that is until her fate is changed by the only good person in her father's house, his most prized prisoner. Sybella's story is dark and thrilling and fans of Tamora Pierce or Melina Marchetta's Finnikin of the Rock will not be disappointed.

Beautiful Fantasy

 

 

The Girl Who Fell Beneath Fairyland and Led the Revels There by Catherynne M. Valente
In this sequel to The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making, September finds herself falling back into fairyland. This time her mission is to save fairyland from her own Shadow, who is draining fairyland of its magic for frivolous reasons. Valente's delicious language and inventive settings are to be savored while her knowledge of fairy folklore will entice adult fantasy readers. An added bonus: each chapter stands alone, making for perfect bedtime reading.

Funny Journal-Style Middle Grade

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Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made by Stephan Pastis

Timmy Failure and his sidekick --ahem, business partner-- are like Calvin & Hobbes if Calvin was dense and Hobbes was a seal-obsessed polar bear. Together, Timmy and Total form Total Failure, Inc, a detective agency Timmy is sure will soon be an international corporation making billions-- or at least enough to pay his mom's bills. The only thing standing in Timmy's way is the CCIA or Corrina Corrina Intelligence Agency run by the evilest girl in Timmy's class. Oh, and his grade obsessed best friend (possible traitor) and an infatuated classmate (international thief). Stephan Pastis' hilarious novel is perfect for kids obsessed with Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Calvin & Hobbes. Okay, adults will laugh, too.

Under the humor are serious situations faced by many kids.
(spoilers as to what these issues are below)




Timmy's mom is finding it difficult to pay the bills and she and Timmy end up moving into an apartment. Timmy immediately dislikes his mom's boyfriend (ultimately, his mom realizes the boyfriend does not care as much about Timmy as his car and ends it). Timmy's grades are low but with the right teacher (who sees Timmy as an individual)Timmy begins to do very well. These underlying issues elevate the book to more than just another journal-style middle grade series.

Kevin Henkes' Penny Series

Penny and Her Marble by Kevin Henkes
Greenwillow, HarperCollins, February 2013
Penny, of Penny and Her Song and Penny and Her Doll, is back! This time, Penny ventures down the block where she finds a beautiful blue marble lying on Mrs. Goodwin's lawn. Penny takes the marble, but as the day goes on, Penny begins to worry that Mrs. Goodwin might miss it. Is the marble Penny's, or Mrs. Goodwin's? Penny's worry consumes her, until she decides to take action. Yet again Kevin Henkes has crafted a beautiful book that explores a very real problem faced by young readers.

Lunar Chronicles, Book 2

 
 
Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
Macmillan, February 5, 2013
The sequel to the best-selling Cinder, Scarlet finds Cinder trying to escape the Commonwealth's prison. Meanwhile, in France, Scarlet is searching for her grandmother, who recently disappeared. Scarlet (who always wears a red hoodie) runs into Wolf, a street fighter who may have information about her grandmother. Intent on rescuing her grandmother, Scarlet travels to Paris with Wolf and romance blossoms along the way. Cinder and Scarlet's stories gradually weave together as the stakes continue to rise.  Together, Cinder and Scarlet will have to work to thwart the Lunar Queen Levana, who is more devious than they thought, in order to save the Earth and Emperor Kai. Those who loved Cinder will devour Scarlet and howl for more. 

*My fantastic Macmillan rep, Bob, ran this ARC over to me the day he received it-- and he wasn't even back from vacation until the following day. I finished the book a few days later (this was back in July). But it just goes to show how amazing publisher reps can be.

Stellar Stempunk

Etiquette & Espionage by Gail Carriger
Sophronia would much rather take apart mechanicals and spy on guests from the dumbwaiter than be a proper lady. Despairing, her mother sends her off to Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality. But Mademoiselle Geraldine's is not an ordinary finishing school. Oh, there are etiquette lessons (from a vampire) but there's another sort finishing, too-- one that involves espionage. As would be expected at a school for espionage, there's more going on than meets the eye. Sophronia finds herself in the thick of things and it'll take her friends and her skills to find answers. Etiquette & Espionage is Steampunk at its best and an absolute delight from beginning to end. 

My roommate (an indie bookseller) and I agree that this book is more fun than the Parasol Protectorate. It's as if Gail has allowed herself to have a little more fun and freedom in writing for YA audiences. 

A companion book to I Want My Hat Back!

This is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen

Candlewick, October 9th, 2012

Jon Klassen follows I Want My Hat Back with another hat tale but in this one, we hear the story from the point of view of the thief. A little fish has snatched a stylish blue bowler hat from an enormous sleeping fish. Though the little fish assures us that the big fish will not wake up, will not follow him, and will not know which way he went, the illustrations tell a different story. Humorous, smart, and with beautiful illustrations, This is Not My Hat is absolutely stellar. I wonder what hat will be stolen next-- cowboy? top hat? Baseball? I just hope it isn't mine.

Brilliant Debut

 

The Peculiar by Stefan Bachmann

Greenwillow Books, HarperCollins, September 2012

Bartholomew is a Peculiar, a changeling, not fairy nor human, and therefore must spend his days hidden in his mother's dirty flat. It's dangerous to be a changeling, especially since the murders began. But when his sister goes missing, Bartholomew knows she'll end up dead, too, if he doesn't do something. Mr. Jelliby lives a posh, comfortable life, with a job in government. But when he accidentally sees something he shouldn't in a fairy's house, he must go out and right a wrong. Each trying to solve the murder of the Peculiars, these two unlikely heroes (and even more unlikely friends) end up in places they never dreamed of doing things they never wished to imagine. A beautifully written debut novel, The Peculiar combines steampunk, fairies, and dark magic, creating something wholly original. Most notable is Bachman's ability to weave the tales of both a young boy and that of a middle-aged man together, and have them both be intriguing.

The fairies in this book remind me of those in Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell-- a book I adore.

Teen Zombies!

Undead by Kirsty McKay

Scholastic, September 2012

Bobby just wants her school trip to be over. She's sick of the bus and the fact that she's out of place as the only American. When the bus stops for a break, everyone but Bobby and the trouble-making Smitty get off. Bobby may have thought her classmates couldn't get any worse, but when they come back with a hunger for brains, there is no mercy. Undead is a teen zombie adventure in the Scottish wilderness chock-full of action adventure and teen drama, all doused in dark humor. It's thoroughly enjoyable, especially if you love Shaun of the Dead.

Literary chocolate bar

The Lynburn Legacy #1: Unspoken by Sarah Rees Brennan

Random House, September 11th, 2012

This is the most enjoyable young adult novel I've read (thus far) this year. Kami Glass has always had a best friend whom no one has ever met-- she hears his voice in her head. She hides it well enough until he actually shows up, and it turns out they have more of a connection than simple communication. But this boy is a member of the Lynburn family who has protected the people of Sorry-in-the-Wale for centuries while also requiring certain sacrifices. When bodies start showing up and mysterious attempts are made on Kami's life, she decides to investigate with the aid of two lovestruck Lynburn boys, her sarcastic best friend, and the school's residence bombshell. With a stellar cast and a bold and witty heroine, Sarah Rees Brennan will win your heart from the first page. The perfect combination of dark and funny, I couldn't put Unspoken down. When can I have the sequel?