Glow by Amy Kathleen Ryan
Hardcover, 307 pages
Publication: September 13, 2011.2
St. Martin’s Griffin
This high-paced novel is the first in Amy Kathleen Ryan’s series, Glow, is the first of a series. Written from the point of view of two protagonists, this is the story of Waverly and Kieran, now ages 16 and 17, who are born and raised on the Empyrean, a space ship. The mission of the crew is to populate the new Earth. Conflict ensues as the females of the ship are captured, and Kieran must uncover the truth about the kidnapping. With lots of action and plenty of talk of relationships, this book will truly enthrall young readers.
This book touches on many topics that are often not talked about in today’s society, one being a lack of parental supervision. Although set on a spaceship, Ryan’s writing is realistic in terms of teens dealing with relationships and the idea of what makes for a great leader.…
Smashed by Lisa Luedeke
Hardcover, 336 pages
Expected publication: August 21st 2012
Margaret K. McElderry Books
Nothing better than to be handed an advanced copy of a great young adult book from a rising young adult author! Lisa Luedeke’s debut novel, Smashed, hits the mark on so many levels. The main character, Katie Martin, is a star field hockey player who is dealing with the stress of not knowing why her father, a known alcoholic, has left without a forwarding address or any contact. In addition, Katie is left to fend for herself and her young brother, Will, while her mother works in another city as a nurse. Her mother conveniently uses her late hours and distance to justify staying with her doctor boyfriend, thus leaving the kids alone. Although Katie has two very good friends (one male/one female), she stays pretty much on her own, hoping with all her heart to score a scholarship and leave her hometown. …
