The Forest of Hands and Teeth

By Carrie Ryan

(YA F Ryan)

310 pages 2009 Horror/Science Fiction

Mary knows little of the past or of the world around her. She lives in an isolated village fenced in from the dangers of the forest and the Unconsecrated, an aggressive population of undead who prey upon the flesh of the living. Supervised at all times by the Sisterhood, a sect of religious women charged with the survival of the human race, Mary longs for more in her life. She clings to the stories her mother told her of a great body of water and buildings that reach into the clouds. Will Mary ever escape and find her dreams, or is the entire world truly just her tiny village and the threat of the Unconsecrated?

reviewed by Teen Librarian Elizabeth S.

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The Surrender Tree

By Margarita Engle

(YA F Engl)

169 pages 2008 Historical Fiction

As Cuba fights for freedom from its Spanish oppressors, Rosa fights to save those who are injured in the battles. With caves as her hospitals and wild plants as her green medicines, Rosa and her husband, Jose, provide refuge and healing until, finally, the Spanish flag is lowered...only to have the American flag glide upward. Their beloved Cuban flag is still forbidden. A piercing look at Cuban history from 1850-1899 through the eyes of real historical figures, including Rosa, who was buried in 1907 with full military honors.

reviewed by Teen Librarian Liz B.

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Chasing the Bear

By Robert B. Parker
(YA F Park)
169 pages 2009 Realistic fiction

Most readers know Spenser as a tough as nails private detective, working out of Boston, but how did he get that way? Turns out young Spenser was raised by his father and two uncles, who taught him how to fight and stand tough. But they also taught him when to walk away from a fight. When Spenser's friend Jeannie is kidnapped by her abusive, alcoholic father, Spenser has to decide if he will risk his life and fight to save her or walk away and save himself. The result is classic Spenser - don't miss it!

reviewed by Teen Librarian Kay G.

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Swim the Fly

By Don Calame

(YA F Cala)

352 pages 2009 Humor

Follw the antics of fifteen-year-old Matt and his swim team buddies as they scheme how to accomplish their summer project - seeing a real-live naked girl. Matt volunteers to swim the 100-yard butterfly in order to impress hottie teammate Kelly. His attempts at the "fly" are laugh-out-loud hilarious since this is not his specialty and he's a weak swimmer. Plans to dress up like a girl and hide out in the girls' locker room backfire. True guy humor cover to cover!

reviewed by Teen Librarian Elaine D.

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