Vampire Diaries; The Awakening by L.J. Smith

From Goodreads: A deadly love triangle
Elena: beautiful and popular, the girl who can have any guy she wants.
Stefan: brooding and mysterious, desperately trying to resist his desire for Elena . . . for her own good.
Damon: sexy, dangerous, and driven by an urge for revenge against Stefan, the brother who betrayed him.
Elena finds herself drawn to both brothers . . .
who will she choose?

This book is said to be for teenagers/ young adult. This book is the first in a series.

Rachel's Thoughts: I hadn't heard of this book series until the show Vampire Diaries aired on a popular TV network. It seems to be trailing the popularity of the infamous Twilight series. I've seen the show and must say that the book and the show are incredibly different. First of all, the book was written 20 years ago. The romance between Elena and Stefan seems sweet. I thought it was a quick read and included many trials that most teenage girls can relate to. I gave this book 4 bookmarks.

NEVER CRY WEREWOLF by Heather Davis

"Okay, so maybe Shelby has made a few mistakes with boys lately (how was she supposed to know Wes had “borrowed” that Porsche?). But her step-mother totally overreacts when she catches Shelby in a post-curfew kiss with a hot senior. Suddenly Shelby’s summer plans are on the shelf, and she’s being packed off to brat camp. It’s good-bye, prom dress; hello, hiking boots.

Things start looking up, though, when Shelby meets fellow camper (and son of a rock star) Austin Bridges, III. But soon she realizes there’s more to Austin than crush material—his family has a dark secret, and he wants Shelby’s help guarding it. Shelby knows that she really shouldn’t be getting tangled up with another bad boy…but who is she to turn her back on a guy in need, especially such a good looking one? One thing’s for sure, that pesky full moon is about to get her into trouble all over again."

This book is said to be for grades 8-10.

Rachel's Thoughts: I really have no strong opinion one way or the other on this book. I thought it was a good read, but very simple and predictable. It lacked depth and character, really. Still, it was a quick read, and if you feel like something super simple, this may be the book for you. I gave this book 3 bookmarks.

MANDIE and THE SECRET TUNNEL by Lois Gladys Leppard

Mandie Shaw, almost a teenager, is certain God no longer loves her as she watches her father being lowered into his grave. Her mother's remarriage compounds her grief. Her only comfort is the promise from her father's faithful Cherokee friend, Uncle Ned, to watch out for her and be a friend.

This book is said to be for ages 9-12. It is the first in a long series of books about Mandie and her adventures.

Rachel's Thoughts: I used the first book of the series as an example for the series, but the whole series is worth reading. This is great for older elementary kids, and has mystery and historical facts woven throughout. I gave this book 5 bookmarks.

Lakela's Thoughts: This series is what gave me a love for reading when I was in elementary school. It's still one of my favorite books. I gave this book 5 bookmarks.

SHIVER by Magge Stiefvater

For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf—her wolf—is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human... until the cold makes him shift back again.

Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human—or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.

This book is said to be for grades 9 and up. It is also the first book in a series.


Rachel's Thoughts: I enjoyed the story and Maggie's take on werewolves. The story was engaging and unique.