Comics Squad: Recess

Written and/or illustrated by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm, Dan Santat, and others. Random House Books for Young Readers, July 8, 2014. Recommended for ages 7-10.

"WARNING: this book may cause excessive laughter and possible silliness

This lively and humorous collection of eight novellas that is Comics Squad: Recess! features comic strip style stories by well-known author and/or illustrators such as Gene Luen Yang, Dav Pilkey, Jarrett J. Krosoczka and Raina Telgemeier. Popular characters like Babymouse and Lunch Lady make their appearance and new characters are introduced. All the stories are tied together by one theme: recess, one of the high points of the school day (second only to dismissal time!).

See my full review at Good Reads with Ronna

The Girl Who was Supposed to Die

by April Henry. Henry Holt and Co., 2013

She wakes up on a rough dirt floor in a remote cabin with the taste of blood in her mouth and two of her fingernails ripped out.  She doesn't know who she is, where she is, or how she got there. She doesn't know why two strange men want to kill her, but she does know she needs to get out of there fast. So begins Henry's dramatic novel of a young teen who has lost her memory and is caught up in chilling story of sanity, murder, biological warfare--and a little romance. Henry's intense, first person narrative and action packed drama move the story at a breathless pace, keeping readers at the edge of their seats. Recommended for grades 7 and up, this novel will engage reluctant teen readers as well as those who love suspense and action. To learn more about the author and her books visit April Henry, Writer.