Advanced Reader Review Group (ARRG: Ages 14-18)

 

This book club, better known as ARRG! (Advanced Reader Review Group), is for ages 14 and up. The cool thing about this book club is that instead of reading books that are already published, you get to read Advanced Reader Copies (known in the publishing business as ARCs) of books that have yet to be published. Then, you tell us what you think. We also read one published book each month. Call the store to find out about joining the club. 

This month, we are reading one ARC: Incarnate by Jodi Meadows, as well as I Am the Messenger by Marcus Zusak.

Our next meeting date is Saturday, January 14 at 5:30pm.  


Check out the books and reviews below to see what we thought of some of our reads. 

 


Incarnate (Hardcover)

$17.99
ISBN-13: 9780062060754
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Katherine Tegen Books, 1/2012

I Am the Messenger (Paperback)

$10.99
ISBN-13: 9780375836671
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Knopf Books for Young Readers, 5/2006

Every You, Every Me (Hardcover)

$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780375860980
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Knopf Books for Young Readers, 9/2011

I'll admit that when it comes to books, I can be a little snob. I pride myself on the fact that I don't read the melodramatic high school books other teenagers read. Until now.
         Every You, Every Me is a photographic novel written photo by photo in a collaboration between David Levithan and Jonathan Farmer. I found this novel
 deep, intellectual, and creative, though it occasionally verged on psychotic.
In this story, the protagonist is a troubled boy named Evan who  seems incapable of dealing with the ambiguous "loss" of his only friend. It's written in second person to this friend, making it feel more intimate. David Levithan also uses the literary technique of crossing out parts of the text. Although confusing to read at first, the look into Evan's mind (as opposed to his words) adds a fascinating layer to the story. Jonathan Farmer's photos were beautifully unsettling and made the story more evocative and resonant with the reader. Although this is a teenage book, I think adults can equally enjoy such a dark, moving novel.

-Maia

 


$17.99
ISBN-13: 9780399254123
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Philomel, 3/2011

Between Shades of Gray is a captivating biopic, detailing the Soviet's treatment of Lithuanians at the end of World War II. Going into this book I had little knowledge of Lithuania, and much less about how the Soviets treated their peoples. It is surprising, then, that the suffering of so many people has been forgotten. In even, concise prose, Septys portrays the horrific trials of that time period in extraordinary detail. Ultimately the book shows that both sides of the war were capable of the same horros. Still, even on the darkest nights there is hope, as Between Shades of Gray illustrates in refreshingly lucid narrative.

-Ben

 

 


Papillon (Paperback)

$15.99
ISBN-13: 9780061120664
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 8/2006

While the factuality of Charriere's autobiography is disputed, Papillon is as inspirational and magnificant as it is terrifying. Papillon, supposedly innpocent of his crime, is surrounded by dispicable criminals. Even Papillon is brutal, conniving, and violent. Yet, despite this I felt sympathy for their situation--the basic desire to live and the craving for freedom. This book presents a fascinating struggle between fighting for freedom and holding onto humanity.

-Olivia


You (Hardcover)

$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780061947049
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: HarperTeen, 9/2010

When we read a book often we are completely focused on two things: Plot and Character. While these define the essence of a book, there is another thing which is sometimes overlooked: how the words appear on the page. Charles Benoit, writing in 2nd person, provides a unique usage of an uncommon narrative voice. While initially surprising, it is easy to fall into the unusual rhythm of the book. You provides a brutal look into a 10th grader's life. However, Benoit skillfully avoids the traps of this genre. The book is neither preachy, nor campy. Rather, it is starkly honest and profoundly relatable. You will surprise and shock you, and is an enjoyable book for teens.

-Ben 


$17.99
ISBN-13: 9780811871754
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Chronicle Books, 4/2010

Katie Williams is an author to follow! Her debut novel The Space Between Trees is a chilling character study with a strong sense of narrative. The plot starts with a bang: The body of a young girl is found in the woods. As the story progresses we learn that the dead girl was a childhood friend of the main character. Determined to find the killer, she befriends a rebellious troublemaker and begins to investigate the murder. While the book first appears to be a simple detective novel, it is clear that this is no "Nancy Drew" situation. Instead of focusing on the next clue, Williams focuses on how the characters are affected by the situation. The two main characters react in realistic ways as they learn more and more about the case and each other. Unseen danger and a pervading sense of dread set the tone for a thrilling conclusion, making this a must-read for anyone interested in psychological dramas.

-Ben 


Split (Hardcover)

$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780375863400
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Knopf Books for Young Readers, 3/2010

Split is one of those books that you can't put down once you've started reading it. The witty dialogue and enthralling plot are only the beginning. The detail included in each page makes it seem like you're in the story as well. Each character possesses an incredibly unique personality with all the intricacies and idiosyncrasies that make life interesting.

-Nathan

 

Although Split deals with the painful issues of domestic violence, it is ultimately a compelling story about the transition from victim to empowerment. The scenes of violence do not overrun the plot and instead the focus is on the intensely real characters. Avasthi crafts believable personas, thereby making it easy, as a reader coming from a stable family, to understand why the characters behave the way they do. I highly recommend this book for older teens looking for a well-written and satisfying story. 

-Olivia 


The Keening (Paperback)

$8.00
ISBN-13: 9781571316943
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Milkweed Editions, 4/2010
Rarely are authors able to combine the supernatural and the historical to great effect. We already know the past, so creating a believable plot is much more difficult than in, say, a science fiction novel. The Keening succeeds in creating a believable universe which is historically sound. Admittedly, I was a little leery when I saw the book: I wasn't sure how well a book could tackly the influenza, insane asylums, and supernatural presence. Much to my surprise, The Keening handled all three deftly, and kept me interested to the end. This is a great read for anyone who wants a unique perspective on the social issues of the early 20th century.

-Ben

 

With its ensnaring plot and multitude of characters,The Keening is a book that draws you in as you read it and doesn't let go until you've finished. Alexandria LaFaye fills the story with surprising revelations every few pages that brings a suspenseful tension to the book, waiting for the next twist of the plot.

-Nathan

 


The Maze Runner (Hardcover)

$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780385737944
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 10/2009

Dashner is a master of suspense. The Entire book keeps you on edge, cliff hanger after cliff hanger as Thomas tries to understand this new world he has been brought to. Every moment of this book is spent questioning what is to come and squirming in excitement as the tale reveals it's self bit by bit. The story is absolutely genius and I would recommend it to anyone interested in action and adventure.

-Elizabeth 


$17.99
ISBN-13: 9781423118237
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Hyperion, 10/2009
Why bother reading The Demon King? Why spend hours reading a book just to rehash the cliches of fantasy literature? When reviewing books I like to ask myself these questions, as good fantasy novels can be difficult to find. Once in a while, a book comes along that answers both of the questions in surprising and enjoyable ways. Cinda Williams Chima's The Demon King is one of these books. Fresh and exciting, The Demon King presents a plot that engages the reader to the end. A petty criminal, a sinister magician, a warrior and a princess meet and interact in ways that defy standardization. Each character is well described and developed, and they interact realistically with one another. Chima's literary experience shows, as the books skillfully negotiates the complex plot without ever faltering. If you like fantasy, or if you are looking for an original and enjoyable fantasy novel, The Demon King is an excellent book that will entertain and surprise in its epic scope and genuine characters.

-Ben

 

Author of the highly recommended Warrior Heir series, Cinda Williams Chima's The Demon King is another thrilling fantasy adventure. The story line switches from princess Raisa, who struggles with her lack of control over her privileged life, and Han, a pauper, whose life is defined by the mysterious cuffs that bind his wrists. This dichotomy demonstrates how the action of one circle in society drastically affects the well-being of another. As the characters struggle to understand who they are and how they fit into their communities, a greater threat of war and corruption throws them into the adult world. Both boys and girls will enjoy The Demon King's tasteful and exciting mix of romance, politics, and magic.

-Olivia


Hero-Type (Hardcover)

$16.00
ISBN-13: 9780547076638
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 9/2008

Barry Lyga captures a realistic snapshot of life in Hero Type. No one is perfect in real life, and neither is the protagonist in this story. The challenge is dealing with those imperfections, and this book's engaging plot addresses that. Hero Type raises an important point about our society today in a life-like story that will keep you reading.

-Nathan


Lockdown (Hardcover)

$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780061214806
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Amistad, 2/2010
Lockdown is a well-written novel about learning from one's mistakes and discovering your values. The plot is propelled through thoughtful subtlety instead of mindless action. The characters of the story possess a depth rarely seen and their flowing dialogue is riddled with deeper meanings. There are infinitely many different facets to their personas which makes them incredibly realistic characters. Lockdown is an enjoyable read for anyone who wants a book about real life.

-Nathan


In a Heartbeat (Hardcover)

$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780802720689
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Walker Childrens, 2/2010
What if you died but your consciousness lived on through your heart? What if you were about to die, but were saved by the heart of someone else? The book In a Heartbeat by Loretta Ellsworth tackles these questions in a meaningful and deep way. Free of the 'disease-of-the-week' mindset that usually permeates most popular disease stories, this book sheds new light on the challenging and painful process of dying. Skirting pitfalls that would snare lesser authors, Ellsworth handles this story with feeling and depth. In a Heartbeat is a story that will lift you up, and ensnare you in the deeply personal character struggles.

-Ben


How To Steal A Car (Hardcover)

$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780545113182
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Scholastic Press, 9/2009
Pete Hautman has distinguished himself as an excellent writer for teens. One of his most recent books, How to Steal a Car, has high standards to live up to. Fortunately, I can confidently say that, fan of Pete Hautman or not, this book will meet and exceed your expectations. How to Steal a Car is written from the perspective of a fairly normal teen--normal, except that she steals cars as a hobby. Hautman;s characters visibly evolve throughout the book, which makes it an engaging read. The car theft scenes are surprisingly intense and realistic. Overall, How to Steal a Car is a very good read that has an original perspective on crime, and the people who do it.

-Ben


Invisible (Paperback)

$7.99
ISBN-13: 9780689869037
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 11/2006
Hautman weaves a novel of suspense through the honest voice of Doug Hanson. Instead of immediately labeling Doug with his mental illness, Hautman allows the reader to step into Doug's shoes and see the world through his eyes. However, it quickly becomes apparent that something is not right with the relationship between Doug and his best friend Andy. As Doug slowly comes out of denial and is forced to confront a reality outside of his own mind, the reader learns of the tragic event that changed his and Andy's friendship. Although this event is predictable, there are plenty of other plot twists to entertain the reader.

-Olivia


The Heights (Hardcover)

$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780312368531
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Square Fish, 4/2009
Henry was orphaned and adopted into Catherine's family at the age of five. To him Catherine was and always will be the most important thing in the world. Though everyone considers them to be siblings, his love for her is romantic and almost borders into obcession. Catherine feels similarly to Henry but neither of them can speak their feelings for fear the othee should not feel the same way. The two of them live in a happy world where they are always together, until their father dies and leaves everything to his eldest son Hindley, who always disapproved of Henry. Hindley rips Henry away from Catherine, and in her grief after her father's death she seeks solace from her handsome next door neighbor. Everyone in the house feels angry and hurt and they all clash, turning the story into a painful gritty drama where everyone is right and everyone is wrong. The tale itself is beautifully written and suspenseful, and the characters are incredibly real, making the conflict in the story so much more heartbreaking.

-Laura


$9.99
ISBN-13: 9780763645762
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Candlewick, 7/2009
Main character Todd's homely narration creates a story that is as profoundly shocking as it is tender and heart breaking. The fast-paced action leaves the reader with the exhilarating sensation of compulsively wanting to continue reading while terrified at what the next plot turn has in store. Patrick Ness confidently addresses what it means to grow up from a boy to a man and is boldly unafraid of avoiding the stereotypical happy ending. The Knife of Never Letting Go brings a surprising twist to the humdrum of dystopia novels.

-Olivia

A startlingly unique book, The Knife of Never Letting Go by patrick Ness displays the author's unique style of writing and prose. Patrick Ness defies the conventions of modern science fiction novels, and creates a books that rings with truth and anger over the human state of mind. The setting of The Knife of Never Letting Go is as difficult as the rest of the book to describe, but can be thought of as a futuristic dystopia. Surprisingly for a fictional book, The Knife of Never Letting Go is extremely realistic, and frightening because of the reality of the setting. There are no gleaming metal cities, no spaceships, no space-opera dialogue, and no multitude of alien species. Turning his back on this idealized future, Patrick Ness writes a fast paced and succinct novel whose breathtaking plot twists cause any reader to be instantly caught up in the action. At once exhilarating and horrifying, this book catches you in its intricate plot and leaves you desperate for more.

-Ben


Rash (Paperback)

$9.99
ISBN-13: 9780689869044
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 12/2007
Rash is a book which makes its point with a style that makes you laugh and then think. Set in a future where one-hundred percent safety is the top priority, the humorous extremes convey the theme of the story. The characters are well developed and incredibly diverse. From the rogue AI to the football fan in charge of a prison, the characters each contribute to the plot and the humor in their own way.

-Nathan


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