The 10 P.M. Question by Kate De Goldi

Frankie has a normal life, normal parents, school, and best friend until a new girl. Sydney comes into his life and changes it forever. This book talks about friendship, how two people learn more about each other and how saying good-bye could be the hardest challenge.

Daniel C., grade 6

Marlfox (Redwall series) by Brian Jacques

A brood of magic foxes and their water rat army invade Mossflower, forcing its inhabitants to take refuge in Redwall Abbey. Then, the foxes steal Martin the Warrior's tapestry. Four young warriors venture after it: the squirrels Dann Riguba, Song Swifteye, the shrew Dippler, and the waternole Burler. People who like adventure, action, humor, song, beasts and epic battle will love this book!

Euly D., grade 6

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly

This book is about a 12-year-old girl named Calpurnia who wants to be a naturalist when she grows up. Each day, Calpurnia spends time at the creek with her grandfather, and learns about the wonders of nature. The positive elements of this book are that Calpurnia is a fast learner and that she has seen things in nature that not everyone could see in a lifetime. I think that teens should read this book.

Valeriya S., grade 6

Scat by Carl Hiaasen

Nick is an average boy, living in average Florida. It all starts when Mrs. Starch (evil teacher) teases Duane "Smok" Scrod. Duane has a bad rep of being a pyromania. The next day is a field trip to a swamp. A wildfire starts and the kids go back on the bus. Mrs. Starch stays behind, looking for a kid's asthma inhaler. Mrs. Starch disappears, but the inhaler is returned to the girl's house. Everybody has suspicions and theories about Mrs. Starch's absence. Which one is right? Ages 10 and up.

Amelia, grade 6

Strange Relations by Sonia Levitin

Marne goes to Hawaii to visit her family. When she gets there, it is not what she expects. Her aunt is married to a rabbi and is very religious. She slowly begins to fit in and gets over the kidnapping of her little sister. Hawaii was not what she had expected but Marne grows to like living with her aunt and family.

Rachel B., grade 8

Moonglass by Jessi Kirby

Ana is determined to find out more about her mother's death. The only thing Anna has left of her is broken pieces of sea glass. Will Anna ever be able to put them together?

Fiona B., grade 8

Firelight by Sophie Jordan

Jacida, a special draki, puts herself in danger by shifting into her true form. While being chased by hunters, she meets a hunter who spares her life. This risky event causes Jacida to lose everything she cherishes, including her best friend. Firelight is a great book, suspenseful, daring, and full of adventure. It is ideal for ages 11 and up.

Symona S., grade 8