Great Biographies of Lesser Known People

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Skulduggery Pleasant

by Derek Landy

Summary: When twelve-year-old Stephanie inherits her weird uncle's estate, she must join forces with Skulduggery Pleasant, a skeleton mage, to save the world from the Faceless Ones.

This is a strange, far-fetched, fabulous fantasy. I thoroughly enjoyed Skulduggery’s dry sense of humor and bitter sarcasm. I admire Stephanie, who is a strong, stubborn, young female. I look forward to continuing this series.

Interest Level: grades 4-8
Reading Level: grade 5

Horror Stories for Grades 6-8

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Survival Stories for Grades 6-8

The Dangerous Days of Daniel X

by James Patterson

Summary: Fifteen-year-old Daniel has followed in his parents' footsteps as the Alien Hunter, exterminating beings on The List of Alien Outlaws on Terra Firma, but when he faces his first of the top ten outlaws, the very existence Earth and another planet are at stake.

Fans of adventure and action will be captivated by the book’s story. Despite its theme, the book is somewhat relatable; the book is told in first person by Daniel, a teenage boy with common teenage struggles. I enjoyed Daniel’s cynical and sarcastic outtake which adds a layer of humor to the story. This book is generally labeled as young adult, but it is not inappropriate for older elementary students who are strong readers.

Interest Level: grades 4-12
Reading Level: Young Adult

MORE Summer Reading Theme 2011 You Are Here for grades 6-8

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The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod: Eighth Grade Bites

by Heather Brewer

Summary: For thirteen years, Vlad, aided by his aunt and best friend, has kept secret that he is half-vampire, but when his missing teacher is replaced by a sinister substitute, he learns that there is more to being a vampire, and to his parents' deaths, than he could have guessed.

This is the first book in the Chronicles of Vladimir Tod series. It is an excellent read for anyone who is interested in vampires without a mushy romance element. Many young adult boys have requested this action story set in the present. Although Vlad is not entirely human, his emotions and characteristics seem to resonate with male and female teens alike. The small mysteries in the story held my interest throughout the book.

Interest Level: grades 6-12
Reading Level: grade 6

Summer Reading Theme 2011: You Are Here Reads for grades 6-8

The Alchemyst

by Michael Scott

Summary: While working at summer jobs in San Francisco, twins Sophie and Josh find themselves caught up in the deadly, centuries-old struggle between rival alchemists, Nicholas Flamel and John Dee, over the possession of an ancient and powerful book.

This is the exciting and fascinating first book in a series. I recommend this book to young adults and younger readers on a high reading level. I feel there is no objectionable material aside from fantasy violence. This series draws characters from ancient mythology of several different cultures. Like the Percy Jackson series, modern teen characters and ancient characters interact in an original story that takes place today.

Interest Level: grade 4-12
Reading Level: grade 6

Books to Discuss Values for grades 3-8

Mysteries for Grades 6-8

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Historical Fiction for Young Teens

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Where the Red Fern Grows

by Wilson Rawls

Summary: A young boy saves money to buy two dogs. They become great companions.

I sobbed for at least an hour after reading this book. I do not recommend reading as a class, but if you do, be very cautious if a student has lost a loved one.

Interest Level: grades 4-8
Reading Level: grade 6

Vampire Reads for Young Adults

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Science Fiction for Young Teens

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Chit Lit for Young Teens

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Librarianjk recommends Who Stole Mona Lisa?

Who Stole Mona Lisa?

by Ruthie Knapp

Summary: Tells the story of the famous Leonardo Da Vinci portrait known as the Mona Lisa, including its 1911 theft from the Louvre in Paris, from the point of view of the subject of the painting. Includes an author's note with facts about the painting.

This is an excellent fictionalized story of a true event. The author weaves in many facts during the story in addition to the facts on the author’s note page. This book is appropriate for older readers interested in the Mona Lisa or art in general.

Interest Level: grades 4-6, grades 7-8
Reading Level: grade 2

The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton

Summary: The struggle of three brothers to stay together after their parent's death and their quest for identity among the conflicting values of their adolescent society.

Although this book is considered to be on a fourth grade reading level, the content is mature including gangs and violence. I feel it is most appropriate for middle school and high school students.I read this as a sixth grade honors student and it was a little intense for me, though it was very enjoyable. It is a great book for putting your life into perspective as a youth.

Reading Level: grade 5
Interest Level: 6-12

Shakespeare's Scribe by Gary Blackwood

Summary: In plague-ridden 1602 England, a fifteen-year-old orphan boy, who has become an apprentice actor, goes on the road with Shakespeare's troupe, and finds out more about his parents along the way.

Even if you are not a Shakespeare fan you may enjoy this book! I recommend this book to historical fiction fans and theater lovers. At time the book is predictable and other times surprising, but all in all is a terrific read.

Interest level: 4-12
Reading Level: grade 6

Dragon Reads for Grades 6-8

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