Redbery Books

This book will appeal to every child whose parents have told them they'd have to wait until they are older to gain certain privileges!  Rory's parents have always told her she can do things like drink coffee and wear make-up when she turns twelve.  So, Rory has been compiling a list and she is ready for her birthday...finally!  Of course, there are twists and turns and lots of lessons about growing up that are written very nicely.  Wendy Mass knows her audience and kids will love this book.

This book is really unputdownable!  I read it first ( in about a day and a half) then three of my children read it so we had a family book club for a couple of weeks where all we could do was talk about the characters from the Hunger Games.  It is set in a nation called Panem which consists of a Capitol and twelve outlying districts.  The Capitol is cruel and harsh and keeps the people in the districts in line by forcing them to each send a boy and a girl to participate in the "hunger games" once every year.  The "games", which are broadcast on live television throughout the districts, are a fight to the death contest of survival.  Sixteen year-old Katniss volunteers for the games after her younger sister is chosen.  She then finds herself one of the contenders and must make choices between survival and friendship, life and love.  It's a book that appeals to both girls and boys and even most adults.  The plot is fast-paced and you'll want the start the second in the series, Catching Fire, right away.  The third book comes out this ummer, so once you've read the first two, try to wait patiently...

Wintergirls tells the story of Lia and Cassie, best friends struggling with issues related to eating disorders.  The book is "emotionally wrenching" and the main character's voice is very realistic.  It ends with an important message of hope for young girls and their families.

Gathering Blue is the second book in a series that starts with The Giver.  It follows the main character into another world full of secrets and mystery.  It's easy to get pulled into this world that is sometimes scary and sometimes beautiful.  The next in the series is called Messenger, and you'll want to start it as soon as you finish this one!