I Am J by Cris Beam

This book follows J, a transgender female to male, who is struggling with his identity and being accepted.

I really like the book and found I could identify with J. I found J and the other characters to be well developed and relatable. I would recommend it to others.

Reviewed by Colleen.
Reviewed from an advanced reader copy.

Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos

Dead End in Norvelt is a good story. It is about a young kid named Jack. Placed somewhere in the 1960s, Jack has some wild plans for his summer. But those plans are shot down after he is "grounded for life" for cutting down the cornfield of his mom's that his dad told him to. Now caught in the struggle between feuding parents, Jack has to find a way to get out to avoid losing his best friend, Bunny. This story is full of surprises and is a warmhearted story for all ages.

The reader for this audiobook did a good job with the voices for the characters. It was easy to tell who was speaking.

I personally liked this book (Actually it was an audiobook.). This story was very ... interesting. It had many interesting branch story lines. But I don't want to give much away so I'll tell you it is a read that's worth it. I enjoyed it and it is good for all ages.

Reviewed by Josh.
Reviewed from an advance CD.

Sweetly by Jackson Pearce

Sweetly is a remake of the classic Hansel and Gretel, with a twenty first century setting and a completely new twist. Hansel and Gretchen have been tormented all their short lives by the mysterious disappearance of their sister. After being kicked out of the only home they knew they set off looking for a fresh start. A shortage of cash and a dead car lead them to the door of Sophia the candy maker a.k.a. the witch of Live Oak.

This book is riveting, not really in terms of action but in suspense. There is some action though, more towards the end. The story has romance but not overly so. I would recommend it to people who enjoy stories about fantasy and fairy tales and also to those who like a little teenage drama.

Reviewed by Emily.
Reviewed from an advanced reader copy.