Hot Pick from TAB - Run Fatboy Run

Directed by: David Schwimmer
(DVD General Run)

2008 Comedy PG-13

This movie was done by the same people who did Shawn of the Living Dead and Hot Fuzz. While this movie is not as fast paced as its predecessors, it still delivers as many laughs as the first two. Besides the laughs, this movie delivers a few warm moments, which the actors carry off wonderfully. The main character of this movie, Dennis, is a man stuck in a dead rut after he left the women he loved at the alter. In a final, desperate attempt to win her back, he decides to run a marathon. Various problems come up, with him being in as good of shape as a deflated basketball. This is definitely one of the best comedy movies of the year. I give it four out of five stars.

reviewed by TAB member Elizabeth D.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Pokemon Battle Revolution

Wii Video Game

ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)

Pokemon Battle Revolution is a great game for owners of the Pokemon games for the Nintendo DS, giving people the opportunity to see their hard-raised Pokemon from the game onto the video game screen and test their strengths. The graphics are gorgeous and show more life than previous Pokemon Colosseum games. The game also comes with new, inventive battle ideas and the chance to build a customizable trainer. However the game offers very little for those who don't own the DS game, and those people should move on to other games.

reviewed by TAB member Janette D.

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Go Big or Go Home

By Will Hobbs

(YA F Hobb)
185 pages 2008 Science Fiction

Brady, 14 years old, is accustomed to seeing the dark sky lit up by meteor showers in the Black Hills. Watching from his rooftop, he’s dumbstruck when a searing chunk crashes through his roof and leaves a gaping hole in his mattress. Brady and his cousin are inseparable, challenging each other in extreme bike riding through the hills where Quinn always wins. But then Quinn notices that Brady has gone from a slacker to almost superhuman. Could the numbness and tingling overcoming his body and suspected Martian microbes have any ties to the meteorite? (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Elaine D.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Speed Racer

Directed by: The Wachowski Brothers
(DVD General Spee)

2008 Sports/Adventure

Rated: PG

Speed Racer follows the story of Speed as he fights to win the Grand Prix, and in general doing what's right in the face of the impossible. It's nonstop fun from start to finish. The characters aren't complex but are still refreshingly different, from sassy Trixie to Speed's quirky family members and the mysterious Racer X. The execution itself is innovative and brilliant, and full of bright colors. Overall, it's a movie you can sit down and enjoy, then walk away feeling good.

reviewed by TAB member Janette D.

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My Bonny Light Horseman

By L. A. Meyer

(YA F Meye)
486 pages 2008 Historical Fiction/Adventure

In this sixth installment of the Bloody Jack series, Jacky is captured by British Intelligence and forced to play a role she never wanted—that of a spy. She must flush out secrets from French officers who frequent the Paris nightclub where she poses as a dancer. But in typical Jacky style, she ends up a courier for Napoleon’s army as they march towards Germany and certain war. Will her quick wits and grand heroics save the day, and her own hide? (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Kay G.

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Hot Pick from TAB - A Little Bit Longer

Artists: Jonas Brothers

(MR JONA LBL J 12)

2008 Pop/Rock

A Little Bit Longer is the Jonas Brothers' latest album whose title has been dedicated to Nick Jonas’s diabetic condition. Together, Kevin, Nick, and Joe rock their third record with much more hit singles including “Burnin’ Up,” “Love Bug,” “Tonight,” and “A Little Bit Longer.” Not only do they work together coming up with a variety of songs, guests are featured in this album as well, such as Big Rob. The new Jonas Brothers CD is definitely worth listening to, especially to Jonas-loving fans.

reviewed by TAB member Saniya K.

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Wicked Lovely

By Melissa Marr

(YA F Marr)

328 pages 2007 Fantasy

Aislinn has a unique gift. She can see fairies, but that’s not a good thing. All her life Aislinn has been memorizing rules in order to survive. Don’t look at them. Don’t talk to them. Don’t let them know you see them. Aislinn lives by these rules until she is approached by Keenan, Summer King of the fairies. Can she hold on to her true love, meet her destiny, and still resist the beautiful Summer King? (Grades 9 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Meghann M.

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Princess Ben

By Catherine Gilbert Murdock

(YA F Murd)
344 pages 2008 Fantasy

When Ben’s mother and uncle are brutally killed and her father goes missing, the kingdom of Montagne believes the claim of its rivals that a dragon was responsible. As the next in line for the throne, Ben is taken under her aunt’s wing to learn the proper way to behave and to arrange a suitable husband. She steadfastly refuses, especially as the main choice is the rival kingdom’s son, and is banished to a dark room in the highest tower. Once there, she discovers a secret that will forever change her life. (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Shelly P.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Leap Day

By Wendy Mass

(YA F Runh)

212 pages 2004 Realistic Fiction

Have you ever wanted to know what the people around you are thinking? Well you can get inside everyone’s head in this novel. Meet Josie Taylor, who was born on February 29th, Leap Day. She is about to turn sixteen, which means it’s her “fourth” birthday, and even though her rare birthday is always special, this one is going to top them all. With a driving test, scavenger hunt, play auditions, and the Sweet Sixteen initiation at the lake, Josie learns things about herself, her family, and her friends that she never thought possible. Written in a style where you get to see everyone’s point of view, this book is an exciting coming-of-age novel that keeps you turning the pages! (Grades 7 & Up)

reviewed by TAB member Julia S.

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The Mystery of the Third Lucretia

By Susan Runholt

(YA F Runh)

278 pages 2008 Mystery

When Kari and her best friend, Lucas, notice a man copying a Rembrandt painting in an art gallery in Minnesota, they think it’s a bit strange. But when they notice him copying another Rembrandt in London, they begin to wonder what he’s up to. Their suspicions seem to be confirmed when a newly discovered Rembrandt appears in Amsterdam, and they suspect it’s a forgery. But how will they prove it? (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Shelly P.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy

Video game available in: PS2, Xbox 360, CD-ROM
ESRB Rating: E10+

I liked this video game because: though the controls and what to do are, at first, difficult to the new user, one can easily get the hang of this game, and it is quite fun once one does so. If you love to be destructive, this is a game for you, though a fair amount of constructing takes place as well. If you see a pile of Lego bricks lying around in a place on the game, you can use a certain control to make them into something useful, if you are a humanoid, that is. The droids are much less useful than the humanoids, because they cannot wield weapons very well. However, R2-D2 can sting enemies close at hand, and can, for a certain amount of time, fly. To destroy many parts of the Lego building that you are in for most of the game, all you have to do is shoot it or hit it with a light saber. They will collapse, giving you Lego studs and hearts, which you can collect to use as currency and health, in that order. You can buy new characters as well, which is also very interesting. My two favorite parts of this video game are the funny shows in the middle of the game that are short and sweet, but sort of make parts of the Star Wars movies into a joke, and the fact that you can make your own characters out of pieces already available at a certain point in the game, so you could put Yoda's head on Princess Leia's body with Darth Vader's cape, holding Chewbacca's bow and arrow! Overall Rating: 4 stars

reviewed by TAB member Colleen K.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn

Wii Video Game
ESRB Rating: E10+

This is an excellent strategy game for the Wii. In the game, you command various troops and you decide the outcome of the battle. The plot is also very good, even though it is all text. I highly recommend this game and give it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

reviewed by TAB member Brian K.

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City of Bones

By Cassandra Clare

(YA F Clar)

485 pages 2007 Horror/Adventure

What would you do if you could see something that no one else could? Clary Fray must answer this question when she suddenly begins to see the world of demons and Darkhunters. Things get even harder when Clary’s mother goes missing and all leads point to the mysterious Valentine of the demon world. How can Clary possibly navigate the world of angels and demons? Or was she meant to be among them all along? This is the first book in The Mortal Instruments series. (Grades 8 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Meghann M.

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The Road to Vengeance

By Judson Roberts

(YA F Robe)
344 pages 2008 Historical Fiction

In the third installment of The Strongbow Saga, Halfdan continues to hone his skills as a Viking warrior. As lords Ragnor and Hastein bring war to the Franks to gain plunder and riches, Halfdan proves himself again and again on the battlefield with the skill of his bow and his clever mind. But will Halfdan be ready to fulfill his oath of vengeance? (Grades 7 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Kay G.

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The Wednesday Wars

By Gary D. Schmidt

(YA F Schm)
264 pages 2007 Realistic Fiction

Holling’s seventh-grade English teacher makes him read Shakespeare when he remains behind on Wednesdays while his classmates attend either Hebrew or Catechism classes. He views this as pure punishment. His world is cracked wide open when Mrs. B. arranges a meeting with the New York Yankees, uses her Olympic runner experience to coach Holling for the cross-country team, and unravels the mystery of Shakespeare. (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Elaine D.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Weezer (The Blue Album)

Artist: Weezer

(MR WEEZ WEE W 29)

1994 Rock

Many of us have heard of the band by the name of Weezer. Nowadays they are a rock icon, but this album is what started it all. The debut album, named Weezer or The Blue Album, is really one of the greatest albums they have produced. Hits such as “My Name Is Jonas,” “Buddy Holly,” and “Say It Ain’t So” are enough for this album to be listened to multiple times. In my opinion, those three songs are the highlights of the album, with a mellow guitar and a soothing voice that changes style time to time during the songs along with brilliant lyrics. The album is relatively long with a good amount of songs in the album. The only problem I have with this album is that some of the songs are not at the same standard as the three songs mentioned above, which at times makes you just want to skip over them and get to the songs you enjoy. All in all, this album truly defines Weezer and I recommend that you pick it up when you can. I rate this CD four out of five stars.

reviewed by TAB member Manoj A.

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Lock and Key

By Sarah Dessen

(YA F Dess)

422 pages 2008 Realistic Fiction

Ruby has a hard time with the word family. Her father abandoned her when she was five, her sister hasn’t kept in touch since she left for college, and her mother suddenly disappeared a month ago. Forced to live with her sister and attend a new school, Ruby tries to hold on to her past, at least until she turns eighteen and can live on her own. But she soon learns to let go and forms a new kind of family. (Grades 9 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Shelly P.

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The Curse of the Campfire Weenies

By David Lubar

(YA F Luba)

207 pages. 2007. Horror

This collection of creepy tales seems to fall short of true horror, but picks up in the humor department. Becoming what you eat, terrifying tunnel rides, and out of this world clowns all wait for you inside. These short stories are only a few pages long and are perfect for reading in between classes! (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Meghann M.

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Hot Pick From TAB - Breakout

Artist: Miley Cyrus

(MR CYRU-M BRE C 02)
2008 Popular Music

Breakout is Miley Cyrus’s much-anticipated new album. It contains many hot new tracks like “Fly on the Wall,” “Goodbye,” and even a special remake of “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” Also, the album contains Miley’s extremely popular single “Seven Things” and a pumped-up remix of “See You Again.” As you may notice, Miley released this CD as a solo artist, free of her Hannah Montana counterpart. She is trying to establish herself as a singer, songwriter, and performer, and she is definitely exceeding all expectations.

reviewed by TAB member Rachel K.

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Peeled

By Joan Bauer

(YA F Baue)
248 pages. 2008. Realistic Fiction

High school reporter Hildy Biddle is always searching for the truth and the next big story, so when a town ghost makes his presence felt, Hildy jumps at the chance to get the real story. But a dead body and mysterious warnings scrawled on the door of a haunted house cause the rumors to fly even faster than the fear that is spreading throughout the small town of Bainesville. Asking the wrong people the right questions could be dangerous, but Hildy is determined to get to the truth in this enjoyable mystery. (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Kay G.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Unbelievable: A Pretty Little Liars Novel

By Sara Shepard

(YA F Shep)
335 pages. 2008. Realistic Fiction

I liked this book because it was from five different points of view, depending on the chapter, but was so well thought out that it never became confusing. Unbelievable is the fourth in a favorite series of mine, but it could easily be understood even if the reader had not read the three before it. However, it does not explain itself in a way that is tiring for the reader who has been with the five friends for the whole series. The best part of this book is that, though the five girls find out who is behind everything that has confused their lives ever since their sixth friend ran away from them and was officially declared "missing," there is still wiggle room for another exciting, hilarious, and wonderful installment in the series. This is because of certain hints and clues that don't belong to the actual perpetrator/stalker/liar/life-ruiner-in-general. This book is an unbelievably great read! (Grades 9 & Up)

Reviewed by TAB member Colleen K.

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If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period

By Gennifer Choldenko
(YA F Chol)
266 pages. 2007. Realistic Fiction

Seventh grade starts with Kirsten being targeted by the private school’s queen bee and enduring public humiliation. For Walker, the new black kid, who’s highly intelligent, it is the same. Forced to be allies, they accidentally discover a secret that changes how they feel about one another and even changes Kirsten’s family dynamics. (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Elaine D.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Jumper

Directed by: Doug Liman
(DVD General Jump)
2008 Science Fiction/Adventure

This is an action-packed movie about a teenage boy who can teleport anywhere he wants. The lead actor from Star Wars, Hayden Christensen, discovers these abilities and learns to use them, and even to abuse them. Samuel L. Jackson provides fun comedy and action as he tries to stop these “jumpers.” I rate this movie four out of five stars.

reviewed by TAB member Kunal K.

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Hot Lunch

By Alex Bradley

(YA F Brad)
276 pages 2007 Realistic

Molly and Cassie’s bickering escalates to a food fight in the cafeteria. The principal’s punishment for these sophomores is not detention but working in the cafeteria kitchen as “lunch ladies.” They have to cook good food to earn their way out. Is it a problem if neither of them knows how to cook? Diners best check their food trays! (Grades 7 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Elaine D.

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Saturday Night Dirt

By Will Weaver
(YA F Weav)
163 pages. 2008 Realistic Fiction


It’s Saturday night at Headwaters Speedway, a quarter-mile dirt racetrack located in northern Minnesota. Teenagers Trace, Melody, Amber, Patrick, and Beau are all part of the action of competitive racing at the track owned by Mel’s father. The cars are hot and the action on the track is even hotter as drivers compete with each other and the weather for a first-place finish. (Grades 8 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Kay G.

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Maximum Ride: Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports

By James Patterson

(YA F Patt)

405 pages. 2007 Science Fiction & Adventure

The final showdown between Max and her greatest enemy is about to begin. Max and the others from the Angel Experiment are led into the final battle where the winner determines the future of our world. Can Max and her family finally defeat those who would want to create a superior race? (Grades 8 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Meghann M.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Batman Begins

Directed by: Christopher Nolan
(DVD General Batm)
2005 Adventure


This movie does a great job explaining Batman’s past and beginnings in Gotham. I loved this movie because it has a mysterious plot. It also has a great number of villains such as Scarecrow. This is one of the best Batman movies to date and it gets you caught up in the story for this summer’s The Dark Knight. I rate Batman Begins 5 out of 5 stars.

reviewed by TAB member Rahul R.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Mamma Mia! The Musical

Artist: the cast of Mamma Mia
(K MAMM MM P 15)
1999 Musical


Mamma Mia! is a fun musical made up entirely of ABBA songs. This soundtrack features all of the songs from the original Broadway recording. Many of your all-time favorites are found on it, including Dancing Queen, S.O.S., Money, Money, Money, The Winner Takes it All, and Take a Chance on Me. It’s the perfect music to cheer you up and to dance to.

reviewed by TAB member Elizabeth D.

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Tunnels

By Roderick Gordon
(YA F Gord)
472 pages. 2008 Adventure


Fourteen-year-old Will shares his father’s passion for archaeology and often accompanies him on his digs underneath London. When his father disappears, Will and his friend Chester discover a tunnel underneath Will’s house that leads them to an underground city. Captured by the strange inhabitants, they must figure out a way to escape and find Will’s dad, even as Will learns some disturbing truths about his family. (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Shelly P.

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Hot Pick from TAB - The Host

By Stephenie Meyer
(F Meye)
619 pages. 2008 Science Fiction

I liked this book because it is unique within its genre. It is like no other book and hooks you from the at-first-not-understandable prologue. I would normally not read science fiction, but this is a book to recommend to everyone. The character who is telling the story is not from Earth and must get used to being known as a "parasite" to her host. Wanderer, or Wanda as she is sometimes known, has lived on 8 other worlds within the universe and has always been a parasite on different kinds of hosts, not being able to survive otherwise. However, she has never known resistance and gets frightened when her host on Earth starts fighting back. Despite the subject and content, this book is not scary, gory, or in any way destined for nightmares if read in a dark room. This book was very gripping and I absolutely could not put it down. A definite finish-under-the-covers-I've-only-got-a-few-chapters-left book. Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. (Grades 9 & Up).

reviewed by TAB member Colleen K.

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Thirteen Reasons Why

By Jay Asher
(YA F Ashe)
288 pages. 2007 Mystery

Two weeks after Hannah’s death, a mysterious package arrives addressed to Clay. Inside is a series of cassette tapes, each one numbered with blue nail polish. When Clay begins to listen, he discovers they’re from Hannah, who painstakingly details all the reasons behind her death, and the fact that if you’re listening to the tapes, you were one of them. This book contains mature themes. (Grades 9 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Shelly P.

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The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod: Eighth Grade Bites

By Heather Brew

(YA F Brew)

182 pages. 2007 Horror

Vladimir Tod is your normal, everyday eighth-grade boy, if you take out the fact that he is half vampire. With both of his parents gone, he must learn to suppress his blood cravings and enlarged fangs all on his own. Just when things couldn’t get any worse, a vampire hunter begins to make Vlad his prey. Can Vlad survive eighth grade, bullies, a crush, and a serial vampire killer? (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Meghann M.

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Dragons from the Sea

By Judson Roberts

(YA F Robe)

346 pages. 2007 Historical Fiction

In this second book of the Strongbow Saga, fifteen-year-old Halfdan, a former slave, joins the crew of a Viking longship. Because of his extraordinary skill with a bow, he earns the grudging respect of the seasoned warriors of the ship. When his crew invades France, his honor and skill are sorely tested. But when his jarl sends him on a dangerous mission, it will take all his courage and cleverness just to stay alive. (Grades 9 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Kay G.

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The Perfect Shot

By Elaine Alphin

(YA F Alph)

360 pages. 2005 Sports/Mystery

High school senior Brian zones out when he shoots hoops in his driveway, so he’s unaware of what is happening across the street with his girlfriend’s family. He is gripped with guilt for not coming to their rescue and also must face family pressures. Brian’s story unfolds in flashbacks, pulling in the reader to question if the book is about basketball, the gunshot, or both. (Grades 9 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Elaine D.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Transformers

Directed by Michael Bay
(DVD General Trans)
2007 Science Fiction


If you think Transformers are the crummy little toys your kid brother plays with, think again. After this movie, you'll never look at a car the same. When his junker first car transforms into a giant robot, Sam is suddenly drawn into the raging battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons over the all-powerful Allspark, a battle that could destroy much of human life in the process. Though it sounds like a pre-packaged sci-fi plot (complete with alien robots), this movie goes way beyond the stereotype to stand on its own. With romance, humor, suspense, and real-world connections such as war in the Middle East, Pentagon code crackers, and the Hoover Dam, this movie is both believable and enjoyable, even for those of us who aren't really into sci-fi. The perfect movie for Summer— it’s definitely worth the watch!

reviewed by TAB member Teri G.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Capt. Hook: The Adventures of a Notorious Youth

By James V. Hart

(YA F Hart)

337 pages. 2005 Adventure

Join Peter Pan’s Captain Hook during his teen years at a naval academy boarding school and later aboard the Jolly Rodger pirate ship. Hook dreams of a beautiful island that he dubs Neverland, and his quest is to find this island. Along the way, Hook encounters challenges, which he greets with his threatening smile and chillingly polite manner. This enjoyable read is a new twist on the childhood tale of literature’s favorite pirate. I give it five out of five stars!! (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by TAB member Rachel K.

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Darkness Creeping: Twenty Twisted Tales

By Neal Shusterman

(YA F Shus)

297 pages. 2007 Horror

Insane ice cream men, demonic soccer players, and spooky spirits all haunt the pages of this horror anthology. These twenty tales are sure to have you thinking twice about sleeping in the dark. This is an excellent read for horror beginners. (Grades 6 & Up)

Reviewed by Teen Librarian Meghann M.

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Repossessed

By A.M. Jenkins

(YA F Jenk)

218 pages. 2007 Fantasy

Kiriel, a demon who prefers the term "fallen angel", manages to escape from his duties in Hell and come to earth. Ready for a vacation, he "borrows" the body of Shaun Simmons, a seventeen-year-old boy who is somewhat of a slacker. But Kiriel finds himself becoming all too human as he interacts with Shaun's mom, younger brother, and best friend, as well as with a school bully and the lovely Lane Henneberger who secretly has a crush on Shaun. Little do demons know that being human is very complicated! (Grades 9 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Kay G.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Greatest Hits 1970 - 2002

Artist: Elton John

(MR JOHN GHN J 78)

2002 Classic Rock

Elton John is one of the greatest rock artists of all time. With nothing other than his piano and melodic voice, he sings you into your own world. The lyrics he sings are filled with meaning and are brilliantly thought out. The thing is, you may be an Elton John fan and just not know it. His songs are extremely well known and always on the radio. In my opinion, this 2-disc album is great but there are a few flaws. There are certian songs that you just want to keep playing over and over and those that you just want to always skip over. The songs can have the same type of style, which many get sick of. For the Elton John fan, they will love this set, but for the average person this may be one that is according to your own taste whether you like it or not.

reviewed by TAB member Manoj A.

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Hot Pick from TAB - A Thousand Splendid Suns

By Khaled Hosseini

(F Hoss)

372 pages. 2007 Historical/Realistic Fiction

Taking place in the Middle East, this book touches on the many hardships that young women have to deal with throughout their lives. In this heart-touching book, there are unexpected twists evoking a variety of emotions. This book focuses on the main turning points in a person’s life, from losing a family to creating a family, and from losing love to finding love. You should read this book because of the unique perspective that it provides. (Grades 9 & Up)

reviewed by TAB member Krupa P.

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Enter Three Witches: A Story of Macbeth

By Caroline B. Cooney

(YA F Coon)

281 pages. 2007 Historical Fiction

Lady Mary is a ward in Lord and Lady Macbeth’s care. When her father is branded as a traitor to King Duncan, she fears she may be thrown out to fend for herself. But strange things start to happen in the castle after the king is murdered, and suddenly Mary finds herself in the midst of a household that slowly unravels. This is a clever retelling of the Shakespeare play from the points of view of several characters. (Grades 8 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Shelly P.

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Zen and the Art of Faking It

By Jordan Sonnenblick

(YA F Sonn)

264 pages. 2007 Humor/Realistic Fiction

When San Lee, age thirteen, moves for the umpteenth time, he seizes the opportunity to reinvent himself to keep from being picked on. Having just studied religion at his former school, and because he’s Asian, classmates believe he’s a Buddhism expert. His Zen-like plans seem flawless until the fearless, outspoken, wild-haired, guitar-playing Woody enters his life. (Grades 6 & Up)

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reviewed by Teen Librarian Elaine D.

Hot Pick from TAB - Smoke Signals

Directed by: Chris Eyre
(DVD General Smok)
1998 Realistic


Based on a novel by Sherman Alexie, and winner of the Sundance Film Festival, Smoke Signals is a touching coming-of-age story. Set on an Indian reserve, the story starts with the death of Victor's father in another city. Victor is faced with the challenge of getting to his father without any money. Luckily, his friend Thomas has the money for the trip, under one condition—he has to come along for the ride. And with Thomas being slightly odd, this prospect doesn't thrill Victor, but finally he gives in. Absolutely hilarious at some points, very real to life at others, this is one film that is worth seeing.

reviewed by TAB member Janette D.

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Hot Pick from TAB - The Best of Pooh and Tigger, too

By: Various Artists

(ZM Best BPT D 28)

2001 Children's Songs

O.K., O.K., I know you left Winnie the Pooh behind when you turned five, but I'm sure if I hummed "The Wonderful Thing About Tiggers" you would sing along, at least until you slammed your hand over your mouth. This CD has all the good old songs you remember (Heffalumps and Wozzles, The Rain Rain Rain Came Down Down, Little Black Rain Cloud) and a few newer ones, such as "Wherever You Are" from "Pooh's Grand Adventure.” So check it out "for your little sister" and enjoy all of your favorites again.

reviewed by TAB member Teri G.

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The Lightkeeper's Daughter

By Iain Lawrence

(YA F Lawr)

246 pages. 2002 Realistic Fiction

After her brother’s sudden death, Squid abandons her childhood home on Lizzie Island, vowing never to return. Three years later, she returns with her young daughter for a visit with her estranged parents before leaving for Australia. But as her daughter begins to fall in love with the island, Squid must come to terms with her past to face her future. Told from the viewpoints of Squid and her mother, this is a beautifully woven story about the healing of a broken family (Grades 9 & Up)

reviewed by TAB member Teri G.

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Uprising

By Margaret Peterson Haddix

(YA F Hadd)

346 pages. 2007 Historical Fiction

This is the tale of Yetta, Bella and Jane; three girls all coming together, under separate circumstances, to live in New York City during the early 1900’s. All three experience hardships, loss and adversity in their young lives and in their pain discover each other. Each girl tells her own story of immigration across seas and social boundaries coming to a climax at the fatal Triangle Shirtwaist fire on March 25th, 1911. (Grades 7 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Meghann M.

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Game

By Walter Dean Myers

(YA F Myer)

218 pages. 2008 Realistic Fiction

It's senior year and Drew Lawson is at the top of his game, his basketball game, that is. He's hoping to have a slam dunk year so he can earn a scholarship to a Division I college, and slide right into the pros. That sure beats hanging on the streets of Harlem like most young men he knows. The only problem is that Coach has brought in two new talented players who are a threat to his game. Can Drew keep a cool head and maintain his determination in order to achieve his dreams? (Grades 9 - 12)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Kay G.

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Elephant Run

By Roland Smith

(YA F Smit)

318 pages. 2007 Historical Fiction

Set in 1941, fourteen-year-old Nick is packed off from war-torn England to his father’s teak plantation in Burma. The Japanese invade his safe haven and turn the quiet mansion into their headquarters. If it weren’t for a rogue timber elephant, a roaming mysterious figure, and a sympathetic Japanese soldier, Nick and his father would still be prisoners or dead. (Grades 6 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Elaine D.

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Hot Pick from TAB - Mr. Bean's Holiday

Directed by: Steve Bendelack

(DVD Family Mr b)

2007 Comedy

Mr. Bean wins a free trip to the French Riviera. Optimistically, he begins his vacation only to find out it has become an eventful journey of mishaps and luck. With a camcorder in his hands, Mr. Bean sets out for his adventure. Along with the many laughs this movie provides, it is and excellent film to watch with friends and family.

reviewed by TAB member Saniya K.

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The Awakening

By Michael Carroll

(YA F Carr)

264 pages. 2007 Science Fiction/Adventure

If you liked Artemis Fowl, check this out! For ten years, the entire world has celebrated Mystery Day, the anniversary of the day all the superheroes and villains disappeared. When Colin and his friend Danny begin to develop super powers soon after their thirteenth birthdays, they discover that their parents were some of the original superheroes who lost their powers in a final great battle. Suddenly kidnapped by those who seem to be on the side of the super villains, Danny and Colin must find a way to escape with their powers intact. Book one in the Quantum Prophecy trilogy. (Grades 8 & Up)

reviewed by Teen Librarian Shelly P.

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