The Fault in Our Stars by John Green- YA

Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.

Well, I read this after Wonder and Crow and now I am completely drained and can't cry anymore. I need to read a fantasy adventure next, for sure! This was an awesome book. I think it definitely is Printz-worthy. I loved the honesty and strength of the two main characters- Hazel and Gus. I loved their crazy, witty banter. For sure it is depressing. If you have anyone in your life that has cancer, I'm not sure if this is the book for you. Although it is absolutely impossible to understand what these kids and families go through, this book allows you to reflect on it. As humans, we complain a lot. We take a lot for granted. We often see what we don't have instead of appreciating what we do have. We all know this. It is our human nature. But, it is good to stop for a moment to reflect on this- that there are so many people out there in the world with far greater problems and struggles than the problems we face each day. It is a very humbling moment when we do take the time to reflect and this book definitely makes you do that.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

August Pullman was born with a facial deformity that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face.

I started to read this right after watching the viral video on YouTube that shows 10 minutes of a group of 7th grade boys savagely taunting a 68 yr. old bus monitor. I was feeling depressed wondering how we as a society have reached this point in which children treat an elderly woman with such unfathomable maliciousness without any remorse.

Then I read this book and it touched me so. I think it is one of the best books I have ever read. I think every child should read it. I do hope this wins the Newbery this year. Although it is only June, I can't imagine there will be another book in the next 6 months that could make me change my mind. Absolutely beautifully written. Absolutely touching.

"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world." —1 John 5:4, King James Bible

Kindred Souls by Patricia MacLachlan

Jake’s grandfather, Billy, hears the talk of birds, is eighty-eight years old, and is going to live forever. Even when Billy gets sick, Jake knows that everything will go on as always. But there’s one thing Billy wants: to rebuild the sod house where he grew up. Can Jake give him this one special thing?


This is a beautifully written simple story of life, love and family. It is touching and even more poignant because of its simplicity. It is a very short read, but sweet and heartwarming. I cried :)




The Enchantress by Michael Scott

This is the 6th and final book in the Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series. This series was awesome. The characters were great and action was non-stop with just enough humor and sarcasm thrown in to make it a great read.


As with all endings, it is tough to analyze it clearly. Did the right people live or die? Did it unfold as you imagined? I think it is always difficult to judge the last book of a great series well because by that point, our own imagination has determined how the story should end. I don't know. The last book is always difficult.

But fans won't be disappointed, I don't think!