Waiting on WednesdayIrises by Francisco X. Stork

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Francisco X. Stork

Publisher: Arthur L. Levine

Release Date: January 1,2012

Two sisters discover what's truly worth living for in the new novel by the author of MARCELO IN THE REAL WORLD.

TWO SISTERS: Kate is bound for Stanford and an M.D. -- if her family will let her go. Mary wants only to stay home and paint. When their loving but repressive father dies, they must figure out how to support themselves and their mother, who is in a permanent vegetative state, and how to get along in all their uneasy sisterhood.

THREE YOUNG MEN: Then three men sway their lives: Kate's boyfriend Simon offers to marry her, providing much-needed stability. Mary is drawn to Marcos, though she fears his violent past. And Andy tempts Kate with more than romance, recognizing her ambition because it matches his own. 

ONE AGONIZING CHOICE: Kate and Mary each find new possibilities and darknesses in their sudden freedom. But it's Mama's life that might divide them for good -- the question of *if* she lives, and what's worth living for.

IRISES is Francisco X. Stork's most provocative and courageous novel yet. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

I loved Macelo  in the Real World, which was an book with wonderful and honestly portrayed characters, not to mention a very realistic plot and excellent writing.  Irises sounds like another character driven story with an intriguing plot drawn from real life.

Waiting on WednesdayRipper by Stefan Petrucha

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Stefan Petrucha
Publisher: Philomel
Release Date: March 1, 2012

You thought you knew him. You were dead wrong.

Carver Young dreams of becoming a detective, despite growing up in an orphanage with only crime novels to encourage him. But when he is adopted by Detective Hawking of the world famous Pinkerton Agency, Carver is given not only the chance to find his biological father, he finds himself smack in the middle of a real life investigation: tracking down a vicious serial killer who has thrown New York City into utter panic. When the case begins to unfold, however, it's worse than he could have ever imagined, and his loyalty to Mr. Hawking and the Pinkertons comes into question. As the body count rises and the investigation becomes dire, Carver must decide where his true loyalty lies. Full of whip-smart dialogue, kid-friendly gadgets, and featuring a then New York City Police Commissioner Teddy Roosevelt, Ripper challenges everything you thought you knew about the world's most famous serial killer. (Publisher's Summary from Amazon)

Before I read nothing but YA, I was a huge gobbler of detective novels and psychological thrillers, so Ripper caught my eye immediately. Great title and it definitely has guy appeal, which is always a plus for me because middle school boys are notoriously reluctant readers. As an added plus this one throw in a serial killer, a body count and gadgets. Oh yeah I want this one asap.

Waiting on WednesdayGhost Flower by Michele Jaffe

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Michele Jaffe
Publisher: Razorbill
Release Date: April 12, 2012

Eve, a runaway, finds a new job at a coffee shop on the outskirts of Tuscon. When she's approached by two wealthy teens who claim she bears an uncanny resemblance to their missing cousin Aurora, her life takes a turn for the dark and mysterious. Drawn into a scheme to win Aurora's inheritance, Eve finds herself impersonating the girl, who disappeared three years ago on the night her best friend Elizabeth died. But when Liza's ghost begins to haunt Eve, doing harm to the people close to her under the guise of "protecting" her, Eve finds herself in a nightmare maze of lies and deception that leads her to question even her own identity. She realizes her only chance is to uncover the truth about what happened the night Liza died, and to find Liza's killer - before she's next. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

While I was first intrigued with the title and love the subtle cover design, the real reason I want this one is because of the mystery surrounding first, the scheme to get an inheritance, and then the protagonist's best friend's ghost coming back to "protect her" while harming those close to her. The plot sounds very complex with some unique twists.

What are you waiting on?

Waiting on WednesdayThe Crimson Crown by Cinda Williams Chima

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Cinda Williams Chima

Publisher: Hyperion

Release Date: Fall 2012

In the fourth and final book in the Seven Realms series, the stakes grow ever higher as a series of murders raise tensions between the Wizard Council and Spirit Clans to a fever pitch. With treachery on every side, Han and Raisa struggle to fend off threats from ambitious neighbors while keeping the queendom from imploding from within. (Summary from Author's Website)

Although the cover has not been officially released, and the summary is a bit sparse, I am so enthralled with this series. I would buy the last book no matter what the cover or summary said. I have spent the last three weeks with these characters and would gladly spend a lot more; it is just that good.

What are you waiting for? 

Waiting on WednesdayThe Fine Art of Truth and Dare by Melissa Jensen

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Melissa Jensen

Publisher: Speak

Release date: Feb. 16, 2012

Pretty in Pink meets Anna and the French Kiss in this charming romantic comedy

Ella is nearly invisible at the Willing School, and that's just fine by her. She's got her friends - the fabulous Frankie and their sweet cohort Sadie. She's got her art - and her idol, the unappreciated 19th-century painter Edward Willing. Still, it's hard being a nobody and having a crush on the biggest somebody in the school: Alex Bainbridge. Especially when he is your French tutor, and lessons have started becoming, well, certainly more interesting than French ever has been before. But can the invisible girl actually end up with a happily ever after with the golden boy, when no one even knows they're dating? And is Ella going to dare to be that girl? 

Quirky title, and a comparison to Anna and French Kiss has me thinking this might be a lighthearted and fun romances we all like to read after the deep and intense teen drama or dystopian novels that are so plentiful.

What are you waiting on this week?

Waiting on WednesdayThou Shalt Not Road Trip by Antony John

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Antony John

Publisher: Dial

Release Date: April 12, 2012

One crazy road trip that's a mix of rejection, redemption, and romance

When sixteen-year-old Luke's book, Hallelujah, becomes a national bestseller, his publishing house sends him on a cross-country book tour with his older brother, Matt, as chauffeur. But when irresponsible Matt offers to drive Luke's ex–soul mate, Fran, across the country too, things get a little crazy. On the trip, Luke must loosen up, discover what it truly means to have faith, and do what it takes to get the girl he loves.

Told with Antony John's signature wit and authenticity, and featuring smart, singular characters who jump off the page and into your heart, this story is a spiritual awakening and rockin' road trip in one.(Publisher's summary from Amazon)

I am so excited about reading another novel by Antony Johns as I really loved Five Flavors of Dumb. The fact that the plot revolves around a road trip is a special bonus. I am also hoping to meet Antony John this spring as he is a St Louis resident and has been invited to the Area Wide Book Battle in May.

What are you waiting for?

Waiting on WednesdayBorn Wicked by Jessica Sportswood

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

A Great and Terrible Beauty meets Cassandra Clare in this spellbinding fantasy

Everybody knows Cate Cahill and her sisters are eccentric. Too pretty, too reclusive, and far too educated for their own good. But the truth is even worse: they're witches. And if their secret is discovered by the priests of the Brotherhood, it would mean an asylum, a prison ship - or an early grave.

Before her mother died, Cate promised to protect her sisters. But with only six months left to choose between marriage and the Sisterhood, she might not be able to keep her word . . . especially after she finds her mother's diary, uncovering a secret that could spell her family's destruction. Desperate to find alternatives to their fate, Cate starts scouring banned books and questioning rebellious new friends, all while juggling tea parties, shocking marriage proposals, and a forbidden romance with the completely unsuitable Finn Belastra.

If what her mother wrote is true, the Cahill girls aren't safe. Not from the Brotherhood, the Sisterhood - not even from each other. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

This week the cover is not what first attracted me to this book... it was the title. Then when I read the summary about eccentric sisters too well educated for their own good and witches to boot, well I couldn't resist. Plus, despite the short skirt on the cover model the summary also hints of a setting that is in the past so I am intrigued to find out just what era the story is in.

What are you waiting to read?

Waiting on WednesdaySparks: The Epic, Completely True Blue (Almost), Holy Quest of Debbie by A. J. Adams

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: S.J. Adams

Publisher: Flux

Release Date: Nov 8, 2011

Since sixth grade, Debbie Woodlawn has nursed a secret, heart-searing crush for her best friend, Lisa. Side by side, they watched countless 80s sit-coms and took vows of premarital chastity. But Debbie's never really been a fan of Full House or abstinence rallies, and all those years of pretending go down the drain when Lisa hooks up with the most boring guy at school. This earth-shattering event provokes Debbie to do the unthinkable: confess her love to Lisa.

But first, Debbie embarks on a holy quest guided by the two founding—and only—members of a wacky, made-up faith called the Church of Blue. Their fast-paced, hilarious adventure leads to nudity in a church coat closet, an unexpected kiss in a cemetery, and eye-opening revelations about someone Debbie's been ignoring far too long—herself. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

Admittedly, this book's title completely drew me to investigate what it was about and the cover is cute, but the summary sold me because it sounds zany and whacky and sometimes you just need to go with that.

Waiting on WednesdayHow to SAve A Life by Sara Zarr

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

  

Author: Sara Zarr

Publisher: Little Brown Books for Young Readers

Release Date: Oct. 18, 2011

Jill MacSweeny just wishes everything could go back to normal. But ever since her dad died, she's been isolating herself from her boyfriend, her best friends--everyone who wants to support her. And when her mom decides to adopt a baby, it feels like she's somehow trying to replace a lost family member with a new one.

Mandy Kalinowski understands what it's like to grow up unwanted--to be raised by a mother who never intended to have a child. So when Mandy becomes pregnant, one thing she's sure of is that she wants a better life for her baby. It's harder to be sure of herself. Will she ever find someone to care for her, too?

As their worlds change around them, Jill and Mandy must learn to both let go and hold on, and that nothing is as easy--or as difficult--as it seems.

Critically acclaimed author and National Book Award finalist Sara Zarr delivers a heart-wrenching story, told from dual perspectives, about the many roads that can lead us home. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

Most of contemporary novels I've read lately have either been fantastic or really the same old same old blah. This one has some very original aspects that I feel are different enough to make it something fresh in the contemporary pool. I can see how both Jill and Mandy's interactions will spark intense emotional upheaval, but could result in saving them both.  The whole giving away a baby and having your mom adopt one after losing your father is quite unique. What do you think?

What are you waiting on?

Waitng on Wednesday Supergirl Mixtape by Meghan Brothers

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Meghan Brothers

Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.

Release date: April 2012

After years of boredom in her rural South Carolina town, Maria is thrilled when her father finally allows her to visit her estranged artist mother in New York City. She’s ready for adventure, and she soon finds herself immersed in a world of rock music and busy streets, where new people and ideas lie around every concrete corner. This is the freedom she’s always longed for—and she pushes for as much as she can get, skipping school to roam the streets, visit fancy museums, and flirt with the cute clerk at a downtown record store.

But just like her beloved New York City, Maria’s life has a darker side. Behind her mother’s carefree existence are shadowy secrets, and Maria must decide just where—and with whom—her loyalty lies.(Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

I was perusing Listopia on Goodreads yesterday and came across this book. The cover was the first thing obviously that caught my eye. I love that it doesn't have a gorgeous girl in a flowing dress or a face with big eyes, but the summary cemented things. The setting in New York and the idea of the freedom the protagonist gets when going to visit Dad, rock and roll, and oh yes the darker side of freedom that test loyalties all sound like this will be a intriguing YA addition.

What are you waiting on this week?

Waiting on WednesdayWinter Town by Stephen Emond

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Stephen Emond
Publisher: Little Brown Books
Release Date: Dec 5, 2011


Every winter, straight-laced, Ivy League bound Evan looks forward to a visit from Lucy, a childhood pal who moved away after her parent's divorce. But when Lucy arrives this year, she's changed. The former "girl next door" now has chopped dyed black hair, a nose stud, and a scowl. But Evan knows that somewhere beneath the Goth, "Old Lucy" still exists, and he's determined to find her... even if it means pissing her off.

Garden State meets Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist in this funny and poignant illustrated novel about opposites who fall in love. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

While there isn't a lot to go on in this summary, when I read it it reminded me a little of John Green's Paper Town and Looking for Alaska both of which I loved. I also have not read Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, but read a lot of positive reviews and I like the idea about opposites attracts. What do you think?

What are you waiting for?

Waiting on Wednesday Never Eighteen by Megan Bostic

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Megan Bostic

Publisher: Graphica

Release date: Jan 12, 2012

Austin Parker is on a journey to bring truth, beauty, and meaning to his life. 

Austin Parker is never going to see his eighteenth birthday. At the rate he’s going, he probably won’t even see the end of the year. The doctors say his chances of surviving are slim to none even with treatment, so he’s decided it’s time to let go. But before he goes, Austin wants to mend the broken fences in his life. So with the help of his best friend, Kaylee, Austin visits every person in his life who touched him in a special way. He journeys to places he’s loved and those he’s never seen. And what starts as a way to say goodbye turns into a personal journey that brings love, acceptance, and meaning to Austin’s life. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

So what attracts me about this book first is it is another  road trip novel (just finished Amy and Roger's Epic Detour and loved it),  it is from a male POV,  and it will be both literally and figuratively  quite an emotional ride. What's not to want?

What are you waiting on?

Waiting on WednesdayFrost by Wendy Delsol

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

 

 

Authors: Wendy Delsol

Publisher: Candlewick

Release Date: October 11, 2011

After the drama of finding out that she’s a Stork, a member of an ancient and mystical order of women, and that her boyfriend, Jack, is a descendent of the Winter People able to control the weather, Katla Leblanc is delighted when all signs point to a busy and peaceful Christmas. That is, until the snowstorm Jack summons as a gift to Katla turns into the storm of the century, attracting Brigid, a gorgeous scientist who, in turn, attracts Jack. Between the school play, a bedridden, pregnant mother’s to-do lists, and keeping an eye on her aging grandfather, Katla doesn’t have time to question Brigid’s motives or deal with Jack’s increasingly cold behavior. But Katla’s suspicions mount when Jack joins Brigid on a research expedition to Greenland, and when the two of them go missing, it becomes clear that Katla is the only one who can save her beloved Jack from the Snow Queen who holds him prisoner. Adventure, romance, and myth combine in this winter escapade for teens who like a bit of fire with their ice. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

I loved Stork the first book in this series, which offered up some original and interesting Nordic mythology along with an excellent romance, and a lot of excitement and action. I am hoping that Frost will be as good maybe better, which makes me want this book NOW!

Waiting on WednesdayThe Calling by Kelly Armstrong

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Kelly Armstrong
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date:  April  2012


Maya Delaney’s paw-print birthmark is the sign of what she truly is—a skin-walker. She can run faster, climb higher, and see better than nearly anyone else. Experiencing intense connections with the animals that roam the woods outside her home, Maya knows it’s only a matter of time before she’s able to Shift and become one of them. And she believes there may be others in her small town with surprising talents.

Now, Maya and her friends have been forced to flee from their homes during a forest fire they suspect was deliberately set. Then they’re kidnapped, and after a chilling helicopter crash, they find themselves in the Vancouver Island wilderness with nothing but their extraordinary abilities to help them get back home. Plentiful action and romance in this second installment in the Darkness Rising series will keep readers enthralled to the last page. (Summary from Author's Website)

 I loved The Gathering because it was such a wonderful paranormal suspense with some of the most real and well developed characters I have read in the genre including the secondary characters. The story ended with a cliffhanger and I cannot wait to find out what happens next to Maya. If you haven't read The Gathering yet you have some time before this one comes out.

What are you waiting for?

Waiting on WednesdayTiger's Voyage by Colleen Houck

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Colleen Houck

Publisher: Splinter

Release Date: November 1, 2011 

In the third installment of the Tiger series, Kelsey Hayes pushes through the pain of lost love and strengthens her friendship with Kishan. Despite his strong feelings for her, Kishan has agreed to be her ally in helping her reunite with the man she still loves. Together, they seek to help Ren regain his memory and begin the search for the third magical gift—an object of power that will help break the curse that causes them to live part of their lives as tigers.

They board a luxury yacht and seek Durga's aid once again, who supplies them with her golden weapons. With Nilima, Mr. Kadam, Ren, and Kishan at her side, she soon learns that the task ahead will be even more difficult than the others. Confronting a dark magician, multiple dragons, and terrifying denizens of the deep seems easy when compared to facing the daunting task of stitching up her heart. Just when she thinks she's ready to set her feet on a new path, she is yanked back with a jolt to the one she's determined to leave behind.

The jarring tug-of-war that ensues for Kelsey's heart leaves her anxious and confused. Combined with the stress of almost being killed every other day, it would appear that saving the tigers is almost more than she can handle. Still, she presses on, knowing that a choice is looming on the horizon. One she cannot put off making for long.

Tiger's Voyage is an irresistible romance with a barrage of action on the high seas, where a reader will find a treasure chest full of dragons, sea monsters, knights in shining armor, fabled weapons, and enduring love. The tropic waters of India create the backdrop for the latest installment in the tiger series. This novel, a multicultural take on the classic Beauty and the Beast tale, delves into the complex emotional turmoil and pressure associated with not only making the best choice for a nation but also the best choice for yourself. 

I fell in love with the first two books in this series. The setting is amazing the story one of a kind and the romance steamy, heartbreaking, and very intense. The characters are wonderful and the plethora of paranormal aspects is a paranormal lover's dream. So yes I am very anxious to read this next one come November.

Waiting on WednesdayFrost by Marianna Baer

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Marianna Baer
Publisher: Baltz  & Bray
Release Date: September 13, 2011

Leena Thomas’s senior year at boarding school begins with a shock: Frost House, her cozy dorm of close friends, has been assigned an unexpected roommate: confrontational, eccentric Celeste Lazar. But while Leena’s anxiety about a threat to her sanctuary proves valid, it becomes less and less clear whether the threat lies with her new roommate, within Leena’s own mind, or within the very nature of Frost House itself. Mysterious happenings in the dorm, an intense triangle between Leena, Celeste, and Celeste’s brother, and the reawakening of childhood fears, all push Leena to take increasingly desperate measures to feel safe. 

Frost is the story of a haunting. As to whether the demons are supernatural or psychological . . . well, which answer would let you sleep at night? (publisher's summary from Goodreads)

 I have seen this one on a few other WoW's recently and am interested in it because of the last question asked in the summary...is the haunting supernatural or psychological?  Intense and creepy I am intrigued to see just where the threat lies.

What are you waiting for?

Waiting on WednesdayIlluminated by Erica Orloff

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Erica Orloff
Publisher: Speak
Release Date: December 8, 2011

Some loves are not made to last . . . Like Romeo and Juliet, Heloise and Abelard were doomed from the start, and their romance was destined to pass into history. Yet when sixteen-year-old Callie Martin discovers a diary hidden within an antique book, their story - and hers - takes on another life. For the diary leads Callie to the brilliant and handsome August, who is just as mysterious as the secret the diary hides. Their attraction is undeniable. As the two hunt down the truth behind the diary - and that of Heloise and Abelard's ancient romance - their romance becomes all-consuming. But Callie knows it can't last . . . love never does. Will their love that burns as bright as a shooting star flame out, or will these star-crossed lovers be able to defy history? (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

Star crossed lovers, a hidden diary, an ancient love,  and a mystery even if the cover wasn't brilliantly gorgeous I would be hooked by the summary. So ya, I am anxious to read this one.

What are you waiting on this week?

Waiting on WednesdaySeizures by Kathy Reichs and Brendan Reichs

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

The second novel in the Virals trilogy from #1 bestselling author and inspiration for the TV series Bones-Kathy Reichs!

Ever since Tory Brennan and her friends rescued Cooper, a kidnapped wolf pup with a rare strain of canine parvovirus, they've turned from regular kids into a crime-solving pack! But now the very place that brought them together-the Loggerhead Island Research Institute--is out of funding and will have to shut down. That is, unless the Virals can figure out a way to save it!

So when Tory learns of an old Charleston legend about a famous she-pirate, Anne Bonney, whose fortune was never found, she can't believe her luck--buried treasure is exactly what she needs to save the Institute on Loggerhead! Trouble is, she and her friends aren't the only ones looking for it. And this time, the Virals' special powers may not be enough to dig them out of trouble . (Publisher's Summary from Goodreads)

As a fan of the long running TV series Bones, I read Kathy Reichs first book, Virals last year and loved the characters and the setting, so much I recommended this it for the 2012 Book Battle list. I am  excited to revisit her characters in this second book. If you like action and mystery then I know you will enjoy Virals and be excited about Seizures too.

Waiting on WednesdayThe Unwanteds by Lisa McMann

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Lisa McMann

Publisiher: Aladdian

Release Date: August 30, 2011

Quill prevails when the strong survive. Using this notion as the core of their society, the people of Quill partake in a yearly ceremony, wherein children at the age of thirteen are divided into three categories--the Wanteds, the Necessaries, and the Unwanteds. Wanted children will move on to schooling and training to join the Quillitary and fulfill their roles in maintaining an efficient life for all, while Necessaries will take on farm work and similar duties. Any child who has shown a propensity toward emotion or creativity is deemed Unwanted, and sent for elimination. 

Thirteen-year-old Alex tries his hardest to be stoic when his fate is announced as Unwanted, even while leaving behind his twin, Aaron, a Wanted. Upon arrival at the destination where he expected to be eliminated, however, Alex discovers a stunning secret--behind the mirage of the "death farm" there is instead a place called Artime, where every Unwanted child has been welcomed by a man named Mr. Today. Artime is a special place full of art, music, theater, and magic, where each child is taught to cultivate their creative abilities and learn how to use them magically, weaving spells through paintbrushes and musical instruments. 

Everything Alex has ever known changes before his eyes, and it's a wondrous transformation. But it's a rare, unique occurrence for twins to be separated between Wanted and Unwanted, and as Alex and Aaron's bond stretches across their separation, a threat arises for the survival of Artime that will pit brother against brother in an ultimate, magical battle.

I found this one last week while I tried to prepare for an Armchair BEA post. There were a couple things that made me want this book. First of course was the author Lisa McMann, but the fact that this has a dystopian feel with paranormal tendencies has me quite intrigued. I am really interested too at how this society forces twins to be pitted against each other. What do you think?

Waiting on WednesdayThe Death Cure by James Dashner

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Lauren Oliver

Publisher: HarperCollins

Release date: Sept 2011

We meet Liesl the night after the day her young father has died. That same day she is visited by a ghost, Po, an eight year old boy who lives on the other side, the territory between life and death that runs parallel to the living world. Po has come to tell her that her father is stuck on the other side, and that she is the only one who can help him cross over. A couple of wooden boxes. Some ashes. Some magic dust. A ghost, its pet, and a boy who forgot to wear a hat in the cold. From these seemingly odd, random characters Oliver weaves the enchanting story of how, with the aid of Liesl, these elements come together over the course of one week to restore love and luster to a world gone grey and heartless.

I am a huge fan of Lauren Oliver's writing. Her two previous books Before I Fall and Delirium were amazing and unique in their own way. With this upcoming book she is focusing on a middle school audience and I am sure that she will be as successful writing for this audience as she has been with YA.