Top 100 YA Novels (#80-76)

Here's another curious mixture of old and new, contemporary and fantasy, popular and critically received. Get your pen and paper ready to jot down some titles to seek out! From murderous boys to magical denim it is time to unveil your picks for #80-76!

#80 Someone Like You by Sarah Dessen (1998)
[93 points – 1 #1, 1 #2, 1 #3, 2 #4s, 2 #5s, 3 #6s, 1 #7, 4 #8s, 4 #9s, 1 #10]

"A gorgeously written and moving story about first loves, rebellion, teen pregnancy and best friends. I LOVED the book ever since I first read it, and Dessen's effortless style of writing is impossible to put down.” Sarah, reader

Halley has always followed in the wake of her best friend, Scarlett. But when Scarlett learns that her boyfriend has been killed in a motorcycle accident, and that she's carrying his baby, she's devastated. For the first time ever, Scarlett really needs Halley. Their friendship may bend under the weight, but it'll never break--because a true friendship is a promise you keep forever. SarahDessen.com

Sarah Dessen cites this title as the most loved of her published works possessing the largest and most vocal group of fans. Awarded the South Carolina Book Award for Young Adult Book Award (2001) it was also adapted into a film starring Mandy Moore and Allison Janney in 2003.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Sarah Dessen's Twitter
• Sarah Dessen Novel Literature Plan directory

#79 Lord of the Flies by William Golding (1954)
[94 points – 3 #3s, 2 #4s, 1 #5, 3 #6s, 3 #7s, 3 #8s, 5 #9s, 4 #10s]

“ I think every young adult should read this...it relates to our nature.” Alli Watson, reader.

A group of English schoolboys who are plane-wrecked on a deserted island is just as chilling and relevant today as when it was first published in 1954. At first, the stranded boys cooperate, attempting to gather food, make shelters, and maintain signal fires. The situation deteriorates as the trappings of civilization continue to fall away, until Ralph discovers that instead of being hunters, he and Piggy have become the hunted. Goodreads

Taught in most high schools across the world, Lord of the Flies, its reputation proceeds it...as does the movie adaptation. One of the most challenged books of the last few decades, Lord of the Flies is a brilliant exploration of human nature in the toughest of situations. Time magazine listed it as one of the best English-language novels of the past century and it is the only title on this list authored by a Nobel Prize winner.

• Author's homepage
• Study Guide directory (Web English Teacher)
• Discussion questions

#78 Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr (2006)
[95 points – 2 #2s, 1 #3, 2 #4s, 3 #5s, 3 #6s, 2 #7s, 1 #8, 3 #9s, 5 #10s]

“This book shows that fairies or ""faeries"" are no creatures to be messed with. Move over Tinkerbell, these are dark and scary creatures!" Theresa, reader.

Rule #3: Don't stare at invisible faeries.
Aislinn has always seen faeries. Powerful and dangerous, they walk hidden in mortal world. Aislinn fears their cruelty—especially if they learn of her Sight—and wishes she were as blind to their presence as other teens.

Rule #2: Don't speak to invisible faeries.
Now faeries are stalking her. One of them, Keenan, who is equal parts terrifying and alluring, is trying to talk to her, asking questions Aislinn is afraid to answer.

Rule #1: Don't ever attract their attention.
But it's too late. Keenan is the Summer King who has sought his queen for nine centuries. Without her, summer itself will perish. He is determined that Aislinn will become the Summer Queen at any cost—regardless of her plans or desires.

Suddenly none of the rules that have kept Aislinn safe are working anymore, and everything is on the line: her freedom; her best friend, Seth; her life; everything.

Faerie intrigue, mortal love, and the clash of ancient rules and modern expectations swirl together in Melissa Marr's stunning 21st century faery tale. Melissa-Marr.com

The first of the Wicked Lovely series, this novel graced the New York Times and Los Angeles Times Bestseller lists as well as their counterparts in Germany and France. Marr’s interesting take on the Seelie Court delves into the darker elements of contemporary society and spins romance, danger and intrigue into the mix. It is not surprising then that Marr was awarded the 2007 Romance Writers of America (RITA) Award for Best Young Adult Romance (2008).

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Melissa Marr's Twitter

#77 Go Ask Alice by Anonymous (1971)
[97 points – 2 #1s, 2 #2s, 2 #3s, 1 #4, 2 #5s, 1 #7, 5 #8s, 2 #9s, 1 #10]

"This book is completely different from everything else I’ve read but now it is one of my favorites. Beginning to end it was great. I couldn't put it down." Sarah Mytnik, reader

This groundbreaking classic is more compelling than ever for today's readers. A sensation when it was first published and a perennial bestseller ever since, this real-life diary charts an anonymous teenage girl's struggle with the seductive--and often fatal--world of drugs. Goodreads

While the authorship of this novel is still a little bit of a quandary, psychologist Beatrice Sparks is has been credited for creating this character and story after finding herself inspired by one of her teen patients. A book that has time and time again been censored for its profanity and events, Go Ask Alice still makes its mark thirty years after first being published.

• Random fact – William Shatner starred in the movie adaptation as the girl’s father.

#76 The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants by Ann Brashares (2001)
[98 points - 1 #3, 3 #4s, 2 #5s, 2 #6s, 6 #7s, 4 #8s, 3 #9s, 5 #10s]

"Anyone can find someone to connect to within this book. Anyone." Kelcie Pegher, college student.

Carmen got the jeans at a thrift shop. They didn't look all that great: they were worn, dirty, and speckled with bleach. On the night before she and her friends part for the summer, Carmen decides to toss them. But Tibby says they're great. She'd love to have them. Lena and Bridget also think they're fabulous. Lena decides that they should all try them on. Whoever they fit best will get them. Nobody knows why, but the pants fit everyone perfectly. Even Carmen (who never thinks she looks good in anything) thinks she looks good in the pants. Over a few bags of cheese puffs, they decide to form a sisterhood and take the vow of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. AnnBrashares.com

The highly successful The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants series kicks off with this title and became an international best seller. Brashares debut work was adapted into a film in 2005 with a sequel released in 2008. This novel was a South Carolina Book Award Nominee for Young Adult Book Award (2004) as well as a Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader's Choice Award for Senior (2004).

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Ann Brashares' Twitter
• Excerpt

Top 100 YA Novels (#85-81)

Another day, another five YA titles unveiled. Today it is a bunch of titles published this decade...with an exception to one.

#85 Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead (2008)
[84 points – 2 #1s, 2 #2s, 3 #3s, 3 #5s, 1 #8, 1 #10]

“Richelle Mead's ability to create characters that you invest in, and a world that is so real is what makes this series so appealing." Kate, YA Reads

“Shadow Kiss has forbidden romance, a realistic portrayal of teenage/student life, great action, strong friendships and heartbreaking moments that makes it the best book in the series." Mary, reader.

It's springtime at St. Vladimir's Academy, and Rose Hathaway is this close to graduation. Since making her first Strigoi kills, Rose hasn't been feeling quite right. She's having dark thoughts, behaving erratically, and worst of all...might be seeing ghosts.

As Rose questions her sanity, new complications arise. Lissa has begun experimenting with her magic once more, their enemy Victor Dashkov might be set free, and Rose's forbidden relationship with Dimitri is starting to heat up again. But when a deadly threat no one saw coming changes their entire world, Rose must put her own life on the line--and choose between the two people she loves most.RichelleMead.com

One of the most prolific YA authors of the past few years, Mead works on three series simultaneously. Shadow Kiss is the third title in the Vampire Academy series that has graced both USA Today and New York Times Bestseller lists. Recently the film rights have been acquired and seeing Rose, Lisa and Dimitri (and ADRIAN) on the big screen is an exciting proposition.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Richelle Mead’s Twitter
• Excerpt.

#84 Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder (2006)
[88 points – 2 #1s, 2 #2s, 1 #4, 4 #5s, 3 #6s, 1 #7]

About to be executed for murder, Yelena is offered a reprieve. She'll eat the best meals, have rooms in the palace, and risk assassination by anyone trying to kill the Commander of Ixia. And so Yelena chooses to become a food taster. But the chief of security, leaving nothing to chance, deliberately feeds her Butterfly's Dust, and only by appearing for her daily antidote will she delay an agonizing death from the poison. As Yelena tries to escape her dilemma, disasters keep mounting. Rebels plot to seize Ixia and she develops magical powers she can't control. Her life’s at stake again and choices must be made. But this time the outcomes aren’t so clear. MariaVSnyder.com

Starting out as a meteorologist, Snyder first publisher work was the fantasy title Poison Study. The first in the Study Series, it won the 2006 Compton Crook Award for best debut novel from the Baltimore Science Fiction Society and the 2006 Reader's Choice Award from the Salt Lake County Library System. It was also listed on the YALSA 2009 Popular Paperback list funder the Spies and Intrigue category.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Read an excerpt here.

#83 The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness (2008)
[90 points – 2 #1s, 3 #2s, 1 #4, @ #5s, 1 #6, 2 #7s, 2 #9s, 1 #10]

“This book has it all... quality writing, non-stop action, wonderful characterisation and big questions about morals and society that will always be relevant." Michelle Sweeney, Librarian

“Ness creates a compelling and strange new world, filled with secrets and surprises that are all the more rewarding because we learn about them at the same time that poor Todd does.” Angela Craft, Bookish Blather.

Todd Hewitt is the last boy in Prentisstown.

But Prentisstown isn't like other towns. Everyone can hear everyone else's thoughts in a constant, overwhelming, never-ending Noise. There is no privacy. There are no secrets.

Or are there?

Just one month away from the birthday that will make him a man, Todd unexpectedly stumbles upon a spot of complete silence.

Which is impossible.

Prentisstown has been lying to him.

And now he's going to have to run... PatrickNess.com

The Knife of Never Letting Go is the first instalment in the Chaos Walking Trilogy. An involving exploration into a dystopian world without women, this title grabs ever reader by the throat and hangs on until the final sentence. Ness won numerous awards for his first YA title including the Booktrust Teenage Prize and the Guardian Award. Ness has taught creative writing at Oxford University and been a literary reviewer for many well respected publications.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Patrick Ness’ podcast with a Q&A and extracts.
• Interview on children’s television show.

#82 Jacob I Have Loved by Katherine Paterson (1980)
[91 points – 2 #1s, 2 #2s, 2 #3s, 1 #4, 2 #5s, 1 #7s, 2 #8s, 4 #9s]

“Jacob have I loved but Esau have I hated (Romans 9:13). The story to 2 sisters and the parallels to the Old Testament story impacted on me deeply. I re-read this story every few years as it helped me to find a place in my mind that I was comfortable with.” Vassiliki Veros, Librarian

“An isolated fishing village, a neglected twin, plenty of teen angst, unrequited love, and World War II. Oh - and a lovely, fulfilling ending. What more could you ask for?” Bridget, Lexicographer

"Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. . . ." With her grandmother's taunt, Louise know that she, like the biblical Esau, was the despised elder twin. Caroline, her selfish younger sister, was the one everyone Loved. Growing up on a tiny Chesapeake Bay island in the early 1940s, angry Louise reveals how Caroline robbed her of everything: her hopes for schooling, her friends, her mother, even her name. While everyone pampered Caroline, Wheeze (her sister's name for her) began to learn the ways of the watermen and the secretes of the island, especially of old Captain Wallace, who had mysteriously returned after fifty years. The war unexpectedly gave this independent girl a chance to fulfil her childish dream to work as a waterman alongside her father. But the dream did not satisfy the woman she was becoming. Alone and unsure, Louise began to fight her way to a place where Caroline could not reach. Terabithia.com

The Newbery medallists have made a strong showing on the Top 100 YA novels list so far and Jacob I Have Loved is no exception. Katherine Peterson won the Newbery Medal in 1981 as well as tagged one of the School Library Journals’ Best Books of 1980. The ALA recognised the novel twice as a Notable Children’s Book (1976-1980) and as being one of the Best of the 1980s. Peterson credits William W. Warner's Beautiful Swimmers: Watermen, Crabs and Chesapeake Bay for the germ of an idea that brought forth Jacob Have I Loved. Warner’s exploration of the Chesapeake Bay tradition of watermen captured her interest and set her on her way.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Jacob Have I Loved Reading Guide (The Learning Page.)
• Katherine Peterson’s summary and other useful materials.

#81 The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan (2009)
[93 points – 2 #2s, 2 #3s, 4 #4s, 1 #5s, 2 #7s, 3 #8s, 3 #9s, 2 #10s]

“I never thought I would read a zombie book, let alone fall in love with one - the book, not a zombie :). Beautiful prose and a storyline that didn't follow a Happily Ever After. My heart was racing and I felt like I was right there with Mary and the others. Truly blew me away." Deborah Taggart, reader.

In Mary's world, there are simple truths.

The Sisterhood always knows best.

The Guardians will protect and serve.

The Unconsecrated will never relent.

And you must always mind the fence that surrounds the village. The fence that protects the village from the Forest of Hands and Teeth.

But slowly, Mary's truths are failing her. She's learning things she never wanted to know about the Sisterhood and its secrets, and the Guardians and their power. And, when the fence is breached and her world is thrown into chaos, about the Unconsecrated and their relentlessness.

Now she must choose between her village and her future, between the one she loves and the one who loves her. And she must face the truth about the Forest of Hands and Teeth. Could there be life outside a world surrounded by so much death? CarrieRyan.com

Hold onto your hats – the zombies (excuse me, the Unconsecrated ) have arrived! Inspired by an article on overfishing tuna, Ryan hit the ground running with her tense and atmospheric debut work. Readers have responded to Mary’s tale strongly with The Forest of Hands and Teeth appearing on the New York Times Best Seller list as well as being announced as an ALA choice as a Best Book for YA, A Borders Original Voices finalist and a Junior Library Guild selection among many other recognitions.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Carrie Ryan’s Twitter.
• Great audio interview with Australia’s ABC radio about Ryan’s inspiration, zombie prejudice and romance in a unique setting.

I just wanted to say a big thank you for the enthusiastic response to this Top 100 YA Novels list. I am ecstatic that it is prompting readers to search out books they were unfamiliar with! Check back in and tell us what you thought of your new discoveries.

Top 100 YA Novels (#90-86)

#90 Glass Houses by Rachel Caine (2006)
[78 points – 2 #1s, 2 #2s, 2 #3s, 2 #4s, 1 #6, 1 #7, 1 #10]

“This makes my top ten simply because I adore the series, the writing, and the concept. Claire Danvers is one of my all-time favorite characters and this is the work that introduced her and the Morganville Vamps to me. My adoration for vamps wouldn't be the same without Michael, Shane, and the rest of the players in this series. Go TPU!” I Heart Monster

College freshman Claire Danvers has had enough of her nightmarish dorm situation. When Claire heads off-campus, the imposing old house where she finds a room may not be much better. Her new roommates don't show many signs of life, but they'll have Claire's back when the town's deepest secrets come crawling out, hungry for fresh blood. Goodreads.

It was only a matter of time before Bit-Lit showed its fangs... Glass Houses is the first title in the very successful The Morganville Vampires series which has graced both New York Times and USA Today Bestselling lists. More than six hundred thousand copies of the series have been sold worldwide.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Rachel Caine’s Twitter.
• Chapters 1 and 2 of Glass Houses
• Cynsations author interview

#89 A Ring of Endless Light by Madeleine L’Engle (1980)
[81 points – 2 #1s, 1 #2, 2 #3s, 3 #4s, 1 #5, 1 #6, 1 #9, 2 #10]

"This book has been my comfort read ever since I first picked it up as a young teen; it's a book that acknowledges the darkness, but still lets hope, light, and love prevail in the end. Best treatment of death I've ever read in a novel. Also, L'Engle's writing is beautiful." Natalie Schmidt, reader.

“Another Big Question book. Why do people die? And how is it possible to live with joy knowing that it will all end someday?” Maureen K, Librarian

Vicky Austin is filled with strong feelings as she stands near Commander Rodney's grave while her grandfather, who himself is dying of cancer, recites the funeral service. Watching his condition deteriorate as the summer passes on beautiful Seven Bay Island is almost more than Vicky can bear. To complicate things, she finds herself the center of attention for three very different boys: Leo is an old friend wanting comfort and longing for romance; Zachary, whose attempted suicide inadvertently caused the Commander's death, is attractive and sophisticated but desperately troubled; and Adam, her older brother's friend, offers her a wonderful chance to assist in his experiments with dolphins but treats her as a young girl just when she's ready to feel most grown-up.

Called upon to be dependable, stable, and wise, Vicky is exhilarated but often overwhelmed. Forces of darkness and light, tragedy and joy, hover about her, and at times she doesn't know which will prevail. MadeleineLengle.com

A Newbery medallist in 1963 for the wonderful A Wrinkle in Time, L’Engle was inspired by the 17th century poet Henry Vaughn for the title of A Ring of Endless Light. The L’Engle was named as a Newbery Honor Book by the ALA in 1981. The fourth title in the Meet the Austins series it continues to follow the adventures of Vicky Austin and her family.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Henry Vaughn’s poem, The World.
• Literature plan directory for Madeleine L’Engle’s work

#88 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon (2003)
[81 points – 2 #1s, 6 #4s, 1 #6, 3 #7s, 2 #8s, 1 #10]

"Quirky, funny and interesting, this is a very original look at a boy who is 'different'." Michelle Sweeney, Librarian

'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a murder mystery novel like no other. The detective, and narrator, is Christopher Boone. Christopher is fifteen and has Asperger's, a form of autism. He knows a very great deal about maths and very little about human beings. He loves lists, patterns and the truth. He hates the colours yellow and brown and being touched. He has never gone further than the end of the road on his own, but when he finds a neighbour's dog murdered he sets out on a terrifying journey which will turn his whole world upside down.FantasticFiction.co.uk

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, published in 2003, become hugely successful enjoying an imprint for children and adults. Winning the 2003 Whitbread Book of the Year and a whole host of other prestigious awards, Haddon's novel recounts the adventures of an autistic protagonist. This book also has the honour of including mathematics and logic puzzles within the text.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• To hear a reading of the book click here.
• Study guide

#87 An Abundance of Katherines by John Green (2006)
[81 points – 1 #2, 2 #3s, 1 #4, 5 #6s, 4 #7, 1 #8, 1 #9, 3 #10s]

"Funny, clever and touching." Steph, My Girl Friday

When it comes to relationships, everyone has a type. Colin Singleton's type is girls named Katherine. He has dated--and been dumped by--19 Katherines. In the wake of The K-19 Debacle, Colin--an anagram-obsessed washed-up child prodigy--heads out on a road trip with his overweight, Judge Judy-loving friend Hassan. With 10,000 dollars in his pocket and a feral hog on his trail, Colin is on a mission to prove a mathematical theorem he hopes will predict the future of any relationship (and conceivably win the girl). SparksFlyUp.com

John Green’s second novel was highly awarded as a 2007 Michael L. Printz Honor book, a Los Angeles Times Book Prize, an ALA Best Book for YA, a Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year along with many more. An Abundance of Katherines also has the honour of being the first (just) title on this list to hit us with some mathematics mid narrative.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Nerdfighter’s YouTube channel.
• John Green’s Twitter.

#86 The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi (1990)
[82 points – 2 #1s, 3 #3s, 1 #4, 2 #5s, 1 #6, 2 #8s, 2 #9s, 4 #10s]

An ocean voyage of unimaginable consequences . . .

Not every thirteen-year-old girl is accused of murder, brought to trial, and found guilty. But I was just such a girl, and my story is worth relating even if it did happen years ago. Be warned, however: If strong ideas and action offend you, read no more. Find another companion to share your idle hours. For my part I intend to tell the truth as I lived it. Avi-Writer.com

Announced as a Newbery Honor Book in 1991, the ALA described the books as being “a spunky young lady goes from polite idealist impressed by good manners and gallantry to a realistic young woman who comes to terms with the complexity of the 19th-century society in which she lives”. It has been announced that a film adaptation is in the works with Saoirse Ronan (Atonement, The Lovely Bones) attached to star as Charlotte but the project is currently on hold.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Reader’s Theatre script
• Study guide

Top 100 YA Novels (#95-91)

We have another five titles to grace the Persnickety Snark Top 100 YA Novels list and they are a diverse group.

#95 Going Too Far by Jennifer Echols (2009)
[73 points – 2 #1s, 3 #3s, 1 #4, 1 #5, 4 #7s]

"Simmering damn hot chemistry, dialogue that kicks butt, brilliantly paced and surprisingly deep." Naomi Rees, Teacher.

"A book that is perfect because of the characters, who walk out of the pages and pull you inside, so you don't feel like your reading about them, but sat in the backseat of the car, a witness to everything. A character driven novel that makes me feel like I have just read perfection put into words." Carla Black, The Crooked Shelf.

All Meg has ever wanted is to get away. Away from high school. Away from her backwater town. Away from her parents who seem determined to keep her imprisoned in their dead-end lives. But one crazy evening involving a dare and forbidden railroad tracks, she goes way too far...and almost doesn’t make it back.

John made a choice to stay. To enforce the rules. To serve and protect. He has nothing but contempt for what he sees as childish rebellion, and he wants to teach Meg a lesson she won’t soon forget. But Meg pushes him to the limit by questioning everything he learned at the police academy. And when he pushes back, demanding to know why she won’t be tied down, they will drive each other to the edge—and over... Jennifer-Echols.com

Going Too Far was Jennifer Echols’ first step away from her popular Simon Pulse romantic comedies titles towards a more dramatic tone and subject matter. Currently in its seventh print run, Going Too Far has been announced as a finalist in the 2010 RITA, the National Reader's Choice Award, and the Book Buyer's Best.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Jennifer Echols' Twitter
• First chapter.

#94 Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles (2008)
[ 73 points – 1 #1, 1 #2, 2 #3s, 1 #5, 2 #7s, 5 #8s, 4 #9s, 1 #10]

"It's an intense, powerful story that captured me from the very first page. It's everything you could want in a novel." Sophie Waters, So Little Time For Books.

“...sizzling romance, touching story, relatable characters - what more could you want?" Sarah James, reader.

At Fairfield High, everyone knows that south siders and north siders aren’t exactly compatible elements. So when cheerleader Brittany Ellis and gang member Alex Fuentes are forced to be lab partners, the results are bound to be explosive.

Neither teen is prepared for the most surprising chemical reaction of all – love. Can they break through the stereotypes and misconceptions that threaten to keep them apart? PerfectChemsitryTheBook.com

The second author with a degree in psychology on the list, Simone Elkeles set her contemporary romance amidst racial and class conflict. Perfect Chemistry was a finalist in the Kentucky Bluegrass High School Book Awards and was nominated for the YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Readers. Perfect Chemistry is also the first (possibly only) YA title on this list that has its own book trailer performed completely in rap!

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Simone Elkeles' Twitter
• Book trailer.

#93 Whale Talk by Chris Crutcher (2001)
[74 points – 3 #1s, 2 #3s, 1 #4, 2 #5s, 1 #6, 2 #9s]

“Crutcher has this talent for tackling every issue imaginable without making me hate him for being preachy. This book covers racism, intense instances of bullying, physical and mental disability, and child abuse, contrasting those ugly parts of the world with the banding together of unlikely friends who share a common love of swimming, and with parents who will do absolutely anything, and risk absolutely everything, for the safety and well-being of their adopted child..." Katie Ahearn, YA/Reference Librarian

“Gritty, realistic, hopeful, and hilarious. It may sound like an odd combination, but this book is fabulous. Deals with tough shit in an utterly real way but maintains a pitch-perfect sense of humor throughout." Natalie Schmidt, reader.

There's bad news and good news about the Cutter High School swim team. The bad news is that they don't have a pool. The good news is that only one of them can swim anyway.

A group of misfits brought together by T. J. Jones (the J is redundant) to find their places in a school that has no place for them, the Cutter All Night Mermen struggle to carve out their own turf. T. J. is convinced that a varsity letter jacket--unattainable for most, exclusive, revered, the symbol (as far as T. J. is concerned) of all that is screwed up at Cutter High--will be an effective carving tool. He's right. He's also wrong.

Still, it's always the quest that counts. And the bus on which the Mermen travel to swim meets--piloted by Icko, the permanent resident of All, Night Fitness--soon becomes the cocoon inside which they gradually allow themselves to talk, to fit, to bloom. ChrisCrutcher.com

Inspired by the notion of outsiders, Crutcher decided to delve away from status quo and “an adult understanding of ....the adolescent experience.” A family therapist, Chris Crutcher has authored seven YA titles and received many of awards for his collected works. In 2000 Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) presented Crutcher with the American Library Association Margaret A. Edwards Award for lifetime contribution to young adult literature.

• To visit the author’s website click here.
• Chris Crutcher’s discussion guide
• ALA Discussion Guide

#92 Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech (1994)
[74 points – 2 #1s, 2 #2s, 1 #3, 1 #4, 2 #6s, 1 #7, 1 #8, 2 #9]

"A beautiful, poignant story that is never overshadowed by sadness." Erin Fitzpatrick-Bjorn, Middle School Librarian

“I always really loved this book. It made me hug my Mom a little tighter every time I reread it.” Kayla, English and American Literature student.

This is the story of thirteen-year-old Salamanca Tree Hiddle, from Bybanks, Kentucky, who is traveling across the country to Idaho with her grandparents. Along the way, she tells them the story of "Phoebe Winterbottom, her disappearing mother, and the lunatic." She also tells you, the reader, another more serious story about her own mother and herself. SharonCreech.com

The third title on the list to have been a recipient of the Newbery medal (1995), Creech’s Walk Two Moons was inspired by a cross-country trip taken as a child. In an interview with Teacher Librarian, the authors acknowledged that the character of Gram and Salamanca shared characteristics with various female in her immediate family (including herself).

• You can visit the author’s website here.
• Listen to an excerpt
• Reader’s Guide
• Study Guide

#91 The Astonishing life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume I: The Pox Party (2006)
[75 points – 2 #1s, 2 #2s, 1 #3, 2 #4s, 1 #5, 1 #6, 1 #7]

It sounds like a fairy tale. He is a boy dressed in silks and white wigs and given the finest of classical educations. Raised by a group of rational philosophers known only by numbers, the boy and his mother — a princess in exile from a faraway land — are the only persons in their household assigned names. As the boy’s regal mother, Cassiopeia, entertains the house scholars with her beauty and wit, young Octavian begins to question the purpose behind his guardians’ fanatical studies. Only after he dares to open a forbidden door does he learn the hideous nature of their experiments — and his own chilling role in them. MT-Anderson.com

MT Anderson’s multi-award winning tome challenges readers with its thought provoking approach and questions about morality. I had the pleasure of hearing Anderson speak of the writing process for this book and how music had a large part in the technical side of his writing at the Reading Matters conference in Melbourne last year. Accompanied by a violist he demonstrated this with passages from this book. That experience alone was award winning. Credited for challenging the concept of the YA novel it received recognition as one of the Michael L. Printz Honor Books for 2009.

• To visit the author’s (AWESOME) website click here.
• Discussion Guide – Candlewick
• Teachers’ Notes – Walker
• Video of M. T. Anderson speech upon accepting the 2009 Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Award for Fiction

Remember to stop by every day for the newest five titles to grace the list.

Top 100 YA Novels (#100-96)

Throughout April I asked people through the blog, tweets and other methods to assist in devising the ultimate Top 100 Young Adult Literature list. A list that would compel readers to pick up that book they had been putting off for months, to revisit an old favourite or try something shiny and new.

I had thought that I might have a hundred participants take part if I really stretched myself. With the assistance of my YA blogging brethren and the numerous authors, librarians and publishing personnel I far surpassed my aim. In fact, seven hundred and thirty five people from across the world took the time to rank their personal top ten YA books of all time. These people came in all ages, both genders and a surprising selection of professions - students through to CEOs. I appreciate the time voters took to list their favourites and also the extra effort taken by some to detail their reason for their selections

I would like to offer two very sincere thank yous. Firstly, Kevin Lee you are a wonderful, wonderful man. Kevin offered to compute the data after I found myself extremely intimated by the sheer volume of responses. Spending many hours, Kevin not only toiled over the ranking system but communicated it to me in a way that was simple (bravo). Thank you for the numerous hours you devoted to making every voter's choices count!

I would also like to offer a thank you to Judith Ridge, Literature Officer at Western Sydney Young People's Literature Project, for perusing the poll and giving recommendations of what didn't meet the definition of a YA title. Judith is respected far and wide for the sheer breadth of her knowledge in areas of children's and YA literature and it was a honour that she agreed to assist me.

The polling itself was based on the system used by Betsy Bird (with her permission) with her Top 100 lists on on her A Fuse #8 Production blog at the School Library Journal website. A voter's first choice received 10 points, their second pick 9 points and so on. The posting will not be in the same vein as Betsy’s as I unfortunately fail to possess the extensive knowledge of children’s literature that she possesses. Instead I will be presenting in a simplified version of her posts.

I know from the emails and tweets that I have received that you are eager for the results and here they are starting from 100-96.

#100 The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley (1985)
[72 points – 2 #1s, 4 #4s, 1 #5, 2 #6s, 1 #7, 2 #9s]

"I've had a lot of illness in my life. Aerin's bravery, her isolation from society, her 'otherness' are all things I identified with absolutely--and still do. This is the first McKinley I ever read and I'm very fond of it indeed." Lucy Coats, author.

There is no place in the country of Damar for Aerin, the king's daughter, who is also the daughter of a witchwoman; and so she befriends her father's crippled war-horse, Talat, and teases her cousin Tor into teaching her to handle a sword.

But it is Aerin who rediscovers the old recipe for dragonfire-proof kenet, and when the army is called away to the other side of the country, it is she who, alone but for Talat, rides out to confront Maur, the Black Dragon, the last of the Great Dragons, for centuries thought dead. RobinMcKinley.com

It seems entirely fitting that a fantasy book kicks off the countdown as the genre is represented strongly throughout. A Newbery recipient in 1985, The Hero and the Crown was published by Greenwillow Books the previous year. A prequel for the Newbery Honor Book, The Blue Sword (1982), it made an impact with the New York Times calling it " . . . an utterly engrossing fantasy” and The Washington Post deemed McKinley as important as her fellow writers C S Lewis, J R R Tolkien and Ursula Le Guin in the fantasy genre.

• You can visit the author’s website here.
• Robin McKinley’s Twitter.

#99 The Pigman by Paul Zindel (1969)
[72 points – 1 #1, 1 #2s, 2 #3s, 1 #4, 3 #5s, 2 #7s, 1 #9, 2 #10s]

For sophomores John and Lorraine, the world feels meaningless; nothing is important. They certainly can never please their parents, and school is a chore. To pass the time, they play pranks on unsuspecting people. It's during one of these pranks that they meet the "Pigman"--a fat, balding old man with a zany smile plastered on his face. In spite of themselves, John and Lorraine soon find that they're caught up in Mr. Pignati's zest for life. In fact, they become so involved that they begin to destroy the only corner of the world that's ever mattered to them. Goodreads.

Largely autobiographical, Zindel plundered childhood memories of playing in graveyards and talking to animals at the zoo to create this award winning. Zeldel wrote The Pigman as he was teaching high school physical and chemistry during the 1960s. After its publication, he quit teaching believing he “...could do more for teenagers by writing for them. I started reading some young adult books, and what I saw in most of them had no connection to the teenagers I knew. I thought I knew what kids would want in a book, so I made a list and followed it. I try to show teens they aren't alone.” His presence on this list show that clearly he achieved what he had set out to do.

• You can visit the author’s website here.
• Paul Zindel’s Twitter.
• Read the first pages of The Pigman here .
• You can read an interview conducted using reader’s questions here.
• Free PDFs of The Pigman study guides here.

#98 Hatchet by Gary Paulsen (1987)
[72 points – 1 #1, 2 #3s, 1 #4, 4 #5s, 1 #6, 1 #7, 1 #8, 3 #10s]

"This is what every boy in my class was reading while I was reading Sweet Valley High." Kelsey Vickers, High School English teacher.

On his way to visit his recently divorced father in the Canadian mountains, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson is the only survivor when the single-engine plane crashes. His body battered, his clothes in shreds, Brian must now stay alive in the boundless Canadian wilderness. Goodreads.

The second Newbery award winner to grace our list, Hatchet was most definitely influenced by Paulsen’s fascinating childhood in which he actually ran away from home to join the carnival and held numerous backbreaking jobs to earn a crust. Adventure is in his blood, not just on the page.

• You can visit the author’s website here.
• James A. Schmitz’s 1994 article for the The ALAN Review (1994) – Gary Paulsen: A Writer of His Time

#97 Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver (2010)
[73 points – 1 #1, 2 #2s, 3 #3s, 1 #4, 1 #5, 1 #6, 1 #7, 1 #8, 1 #9]

"For a debut novel to make me feel like I want to be a better person, that I want to cherish what I have and not be miserable when things don't run smoothly, is extraordinary. That it's not possessions or money that matter in life, it's the people you share it with. It made me realise just how important my friends and family are, and that even though death is something that is a part of that, it doesn't have to be the end of happiness. Heart shattering events do happen in life, they happen to a lot of people." Carla Black, The Crooked Shelf.

Samantha Kingston has it all: the world’s most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High—from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12, should be just another day in her charmed life.

Instead, it turns out to be her last. Then she gets a second chance. Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death—and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing. LaurenOliverBooks.com

Before I Fall is Lauren Oliver’s debut publication on the YA stage and the first 2010 title to make the list. It was chosen as one of Borders "Original Voices" selection for March 2010 as well as a being nominated for the YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults (2010). A favourite amongst the YA blogging community, Oliver uses the fascinating premise of a repeating day to affect change in her protagonist and her dealings with those around her.

• You can visit the author’s website here.
• Lauren Oliver’s Twitter.

#96 The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks (2009)
[73 points – 1 #1, 3 #2s, 2 #4s, 2 #5s, 1 #6, 1 #8, 1 #9]

" I know that Nicolas Sparks generally writes adult novels, but this one felt more like a YA novel to me. It was amazing, touching, and beautifully written." Sarah.

Seventeen year-old Veronica “Ronnie” Miller’s life was turned upside-down when her parents divorced and her father moved from New York City to Wilmington, North Carolina. Three years later, she remains angry and alienated from her parents, especially her father… until her mother decides it would be in everyone’s best interest if she spent the summer in Wilmington with him. Ronnie’s father, a former concert pianist and teacher, is living a quiet life in the beach town, immersed in creating a work of art that will become the centerpiece of a local church. NicholasSparks.com

Bestselling author Nicholas Sparks makes his entrance onto the list with The Last Song which debuted as #1 on both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists. Sparks was inspired to write this novel after Miley Cyrus expressed interest in making a film similar to A Walk to Remember thus resulting in Sparks penning the screenplay and novel.

• You can visit the author’s website here.
• Nicholas Sparks’ Twitter.
• Teaching notes for The Last Song.

Top YA Novels (#95-91) to come...

Alex Reads Twilight: Stephenie Meyer + Science = Wrong

I've lost an entire evening to Twilight.

I blame William Kostakis.

He wrote a post on how real life teen boys shouldn't be measured against Edward Cullen in response to another author's stance that boys should be more like Edward. Ugh. I've already put my two cents in but I welcome you to do the same.

On my face book account I linked to William's post and some discussion with my FB followers erupted. The phrase 'Alex Reads Twilight' was dropped and as I had no idea what it meant (which is bad as I am a YA blogger), I immediately checked it on google.

Then I lost two hours.

Alex Reads Twilight is a series of YouTube posts by British musician Alex Day. He reads a chapter of Twilight and vlogs about it as he reads. You might be thinking about TwilightGuy here but don't. Alex basically mocks it from start to finish and it made my day. There are quotable comments (as you can see from the post's title) from start to finish. I love it. So much so that I viewed all the chapter responses and am hanging out for my next hit - hurry up Alex.

Do you know about Alex? And why did no one tell me?


I welcome you to add your favourite Alex Reads Twilight quote in the comment section :) Go forward, my friends, and "mock it like it's hot".

PS There is someone we would all recognise that pops up at one point in the series. Watch out for them!

Blogger Inquest - Angie (Angieville)

Lucky last in the Blogger Inquest interview series is the divine Angie from Angieville. Teacher. Editor. Mum. This lady has played many roles and is a favourite of many bloggers featuredthroughout the series. It seems perfect that she be the one to close the series. What I adore most of all (and it is completely shallow) is that she will post randomly about Richard Armitage because I ask her to. She's perfection!

I think she's the bee's knees. Want proof? Angieville is a blog where I actually post comments...I know, colour yourselves shocked. Throw in the fact that she is also a vehement Team Gale supporter and we were meant to be. And if we want to get meaningful and specific she's a darned good reviewer as well. She's got a lovely way about describing a book and why we should read it. Like Ana from The Book Smugglers raved "...her posts are always so heartfelt and when she talks about a book she loves I feel like I am sitting in a room having tea with Angie whilst she tells ME and only ME about it."

The purpose of the Blogger Inquest is to delve into a specific blogger's mind and experiences online. To be up front, I presented each of the interview subjects with 21 questions to choose from and they took it from there. This is a month long series of interviews on Persnickety Snark and I've got a whole host of bloggers (new and old) lined up. It is sadly coming to an end but never fear as of tomorrow you will be able to see the results for the Top 100 YA titles of all time be revealed. Exciting huh?

How has your approach and attitude (specifically reviewing) altered from the early stages of your blog?

So I started off just keeping a list of every book I read that month. That’s literally all it was. A list. And a way for me to keep a log of my reading. Then a few months later I started writing up short paragraphs on each book I read and calling each post “A Month of Reading.” In the meantime I started venturing out and reading other book blogs and realizing there was a whole world out there full of people like me. And they were talking about the books they love and they were doing it in such funny, colorful, and intelligent ways. I was hooked. Soon after that I got involved with the Cybils and almost exactly two years after I started the blog, I wrote my first full book review on Long May She Reign by Ellen Emerson White. What started out as a simple tool for my own use gradually morphed into a virtual café of sorts where people came and discussed books with me. And suddenly they weren’t strangers anymore. They were friends.

Characterise yourself as a blog reader – monogamous, flirty or slutty? Lurker or commenter?

I am definitely a monogamous commenter. It’s not a proper day unless I’ve made the rounds and stopped in and offered my two cents at some of my old standbys like Bookshelves of Doom, Jen Robinson’s Book Page, Dear Author, and Lurv a la Mode, as well as some wonderful new favorites such as Emily’s Little Pink Notes, Book Harbinger, See Michelle Read, and Chachic’s Book Nook. Because I’m so enamored of the conversations people are having in these venues they’ve created, I have to leave comments complimenting, questioning, fangirling, or what have you. They deserve the comments for all they put into it.

What are some of the best and worst incidents of an author contacting you after a review?

You know, I haven’t really had any bad incidents of authors contacting me after a review. They’ve all been wonderfully cordial (or perhaps decided to ignore me for all eternity after I wrote a negative review of their book). And I’ve had countless wonderful responses from authors—so many of them debut authors—who want to say thank you or (even better) talk in more detail about books we both love. This isn’t related to a review, per se, but not too long ago I posted on the movie they’re making based on Meg Rosoff’s How I Live Now. While talking about how much I love that novel, I mentioned I even named one of my children after a character in it. Shortly after that, I received the most lovely email from Ms. Rosoff entitled, “You named your CHILD after a character in How I Live Now?” I had to laugh. She wanted to know which character and which child and to tell me that it was an extraordinary fact to stumble upon while wasting time on the internet. I wrote pack and included a picture of my girl, who she dubbed “a very worthy Piper,” and honestly it was one of the most memorable blogger/author exchanges I’ve had the privilege of participating in.

Newest old find that you wish you had read years ago?

I’m afraid that honor is going to have to go to Megan Whalen Turner’s Queen’s Thief series. Oh. My. Word. Those books are divine. I mean, one of those exquisite experiences when you know the author is so much smarter than you and will guide you through this new and most excellent world with care and precision and infinite humor and compassion. My dear friend had been trying to get me to read them for literally years and I kept holding off for no good reason. I bow down now to her superior wisdom and could literally kick myself for not starting them sooner. They certainly qualify as books I’d like to marry if legally possible. If not the series, then Gen. I adore that crooked boy.

How aware (and/or supportive) are people in your everyday life of your blogging?

My family members are all aware of the blog and my husband is insanely supportive of a hobby that takes up so much time and brings in so little money. My sisters-in-law, in particular, read it on a regular basis and comment and mention what posts they particularly enjoyed. They are wonderfully sisterly that way. My parents check in occasionally. I don’t think my mom really “gets” the whole blogging thing, but she knows it means a lot to me and so she tries to keep up. My co-workers know about it, mostly because I’ve taken a week off two years in a row to go to BEA! I don’t really talk about it much at work, but they do know I’m the one to come to if they’re in need of a good book recommendation. And I did get each and every one of them hooked on the Hunger Games series. My copies got passed through the entire office and I think I’ve pretty much got them all convinced to go to the midnight release party at our local bookstore in just over a month.

What word is most overused on your blog?

Is it weird if I say “particular?” I really think that or some variation on it is the most overused. “Awesome” would, perhaps, be a close second.

What recent review convinced you to buy a book?

Trisha’s of The YA YA YAs reviewed Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers not too long ago and I bought it that afternoon on my way in to work. I couldn’t even wait until I got off that evening, the review was that good. I even started it sitting in the parking lot in front of my office. I was that excited. And it lived up to everything she said. As the books Trisha staunchly recommends always do. I loved everything about that book and cannot wait for Ms. Summers’ next book.

For the life of me I cannot find it within myself to like Ann Brashares work. Is there an author whose work you find yourself irrationally disliking?

Interesting. For me, I have an embarrassing problem getting into Dianna Wynne Jones. It’s embarrassing because everyone whose taste I admire thinks she fell off a Christmas tree and I really, really wanted to be in on that lovefest. But it’s not in me. I don’t have the Wynne Jones gene, it would seem. As authors (and characters) go, you fall in love with some so much you can't remember a time you didn't read them, didn’t know them. With others, you're okay just remaining casual acquaintances. And that's how I feel about Ms. Jones’ work. I’ve tried her. For years I’ve tried her. Howl’s Moving Castle, Fire & Hemlock, Hexwood…There came a time when I just had to decide not to feel bad about it anymore. We just weren’t meant to be. It happens.

Writing a book review (for a title you’d ideally like to marry if legally possible) is one of the tougher tasks for a book reviewer. What is your approach to writing an informed, glowing review?

I’m so glad I’m not the only one who feels this way! The ones that turn me into a pool of goo are absolute beasts to write reviews on. What to say to actually encourage others to give them a go? How to possibly convey in words the depth of your reaction to such characters, such splendid storytelling? It’s daunting. I guess I sit at the computer and try to give shape to my glow. I try to analyze it just a bit and pick out those few key, salient points that make it more. The things—be it the wordsmything, the nuanced characters, the sheer audacity of it all—that push it over into the realm of something special for me. And then I let myself loose on those. Then I don’t force myself to dial it down, once I’ve settled on the points of light to focus on. Then I press post and hope it all shakes out well for the reader.

If your blog was a meal what would we find on the plate?

Salt and vinegar chips, sugar snap peas with Ranch, popcorn, and Cadbury eggs. Mmm…

You can find Angie at the following places:
Angieville
Twitter
Goodreads

Blogger Inquest - Catherine (On the Nightstand)

Not only is Catherine from On the Nightstand a prolific tweeter but she hails from Down Under...the other one, slightly to the left - New Zealand. Catherine is a writer in her own right, scholar of classics and archeology, student in librarianship and all round sage one. She gives great advice...believe me, I go back to that well on numerous occasions.

Catherine's reviews are honest, she's critical (which I adore) and she has low tolerance for high flash and poor follow through. Basically her opinions are honest and she provides me a list of must haves. When we aren't squeeing about Tamora Pierce's 2011 title, she's recommending fantasy books that I really should read.

The purpose of the Blogger Inquest is to delve into a specific blogger's mind and experiences online. To be up front, I presented each of the interview subjects with 21 questions to choose from and they took it from there. This is a month long series of interviews on Persnickety Snark and I've got a whole host of bloggers (new and old) lined up. It is sadly coming to an end with the final interview posting later today. Thanks for delving into bloggers minds with me!

Newest old find that you wish you had read years ago?

While not exactly old, I finally picked up the first Vampire Academy book after continually seeing them everywhere. It's one of those books that, despite being about something that you love to read, I just never picked up (and I still don't know why). A lot of series are like for that me - I've always been an avid reader, but since I started blogging my reading has tripled at the very least, and one of the joys is finding older books as well as the new. There's probably many examples of this, but Vampire Academy is the one that comes to mind first.

Book tours – effective marketing or blog flooding?

Blog tours are something that can go either way for me. If it's well-spaced out and for a book that doesn't have the big publicity push that other titles might have, they can be a great idea. However I must confess that a number of blog tours for already heavily-advertised releases, with posts spaced too closely together have put me off them for the most part. Blog tours can be effective marketing, but only with a bit of care - I doubt I'm the only one who loses interest in things due to over-saturation.

Blogger envy – do you get it and what over?

I think we all get blogger envy, at one point or another. It's part of human nature - no matter how much we have, there's always something else someone else has that we would want too. We could get a hundred books each week, and yet someone else would always have one book that we'd want but didn't get.

For me though the real envy is of the opportunities bloggers based in the United States have that I don't. Author tours and signings (especially of the YA kind) are rare here, so being able to go to them, get a book signed, meet a great author and hang out with other bloggers is something I really wish I had the chance to do. But since I don't, I have blogger envy.

Characterise yourself as a blog reader – monogamous, flirty or slutty? Lurker or commenter?

I'm a monogamous lurker, and that's something I'm half happy with, and half wanting to change. While I've visited a number of bloggers of the past few months, the number of ones that "fit" my own tastes is quite small. It's always interesting to read what others thought of books, but it's rare to find a blogger who hit it on the nose how I felt is quite rare.

As for lurker, well, I've always been like that - even after five years of blogging (just not when it comes to books) I'm not very likely to leave a comment. It's something that I'm making an effort to change though.

What is something that makes you immediately groan when looking at another’s blog?

In accessible layouts. What I mean by that are layouts that are difficult to read for a number of reasons. The most common reason is a lack of contrast between text and background - that is, something like dark grey font on black background - or a background that is too busy that it's hard to actually read the text.

When I visit a blog it is because I want to read what a person has to say. If what they have to say is obscured by their design, then I won't read it. I will not adjust the HTML code so I can read something when I can just as easily shut that browser tab and visit the site of someone who does have a website I can read. (My eyesight is fine, so if it's hard for me to read something, imagine how others might feel.)

Also autoplay. That doesn't so much get a groan as it does an automatic close.

How long do foresee yourself blogging for?

I highly doubt I'll stop blogging in general, or even about books, but there'll probably come a day when On The Nightstand simply becomes an archive blog rather than an active one. But barring any major life changes that might prohibit book blogging as I do so at the moment, so long as I have the time, the books and the people to read the reviews then I'll be blogging at On The Nightstand.

Which author do you believe has found the perfect online medium between marketing themselves, making connections and establishing their identity without spamming on all social networks.

I don't know if anyone's found the perfect online medium, but there are a few that do it really well. Jackson Pearce is one, through her use of videos and the like. And through making her blog as much about her readers as it is about her books, Michelle Zink - she's created connections with readers outside the pages of her books, and I think that inspires loyalty amongst her fans. They're not just fans of her books, but of Michelle as a person.

Blogging can be unbelievably supporting and sometimes catty environment – what three guidelines do you find to be good rules to live by in the blogging world?

1) Be yourself and be honest. Write your own content. And remember, we want your opinion on the book you're reviewing, not what you think we think your opinion on the book should be.
2) Be professional. Be courteous in your emails to publishers/authors, and check your spelling and grammar.
3) If in doubt, stop. Don't post immediately and angry. Step away from the computer and take a moment to think about what is going on. Do they have a point? Is there a better way to resolve this? We say the worst things in the heat of the moment, and just taking a moment to calm down can do wonders to prevent any major blow-ups that can result from posting without thought.

You can find Catherine at the following places:
On the Nightstand
Twitter
Goodreads

Blogger Inquest - Adele (Persnickety Snark)

I wasn't planning on taking part in the Blogger Inquest but several people on twitter expressed interest in me doing so. Being the narcissist that I am I decided to give it a go.

Have you ever interviewed yourself? It is quite possibly the most boring task that one can undertake. Even worse, I wrote a series of questions for this series that I wanted to hear the answers from bloggers I admire...not me. Just choosing questions to answer was a tough task.

So here's hoping I haven't bored you as much as I bored myself.

Blogging can be unbelievably supportive and sometimes catty environment – what three guidelines do you find to be good rules to live by in the blogging world?

I am really not one to teach as I take things personally. But there are a few things that I am trying to do to make my life less stressful.

Three guidelines –

1. Write your own reviews. Devise your own interview questions. Own your content...literally.
2. Don’t respond to something hard or hurtful right away. Think about it. Usually there is something you can learn from it once you get past the hurt and anger. Allow yourself the opportunity to process it before reacting. This happened to me last week – it really made me think about what I am writing and the lack of thought I put into some of the most basic things I write.
3. Blog for the right reasons and the bitching towards you will lessen. Bloggers can smell out a book hoarder from twenty paces. If you are blogging for the “free stuff” don’t. You disrespect the authors, the publishers and the bloggers that work their tails off on their blogs for hours every day.

Characterise yourself as a blog reader – monogamous, flirty or slutty? Lurker or commenter?

Lurker. The shadows are my friend. I read mostly the same blogs, sometimes diversifying if a twitter link grabs my fancy. I rarely comment as I don’t want to write something immaterial. BBAW is fantastic as I usually find new blogs with quality content. I am very choosy as my blog roll shows I only list blogs I read frequently.

As for commenting, I only make the effort if I have something I really want to add....which isn’t probably the best way to go about it. But I am hardly the ‘awesome haul’ kinda gal. I am much more inclined to write an email saying well done than doing so in a comment section for some weird reason.

What are some of the best and worst incidents of an author contacting you after a review?

Best would have to be in my first month of blogging (it really set a precedent) when I reviewed If I Stay. I had no idea how these situations went but I loved the book, wrote a review through my tears and then emailed Gayle Forman to share my thoughts on the book. She wrote back and mentioned FNL and then I was a goner. She showed that authors can be really approachable and sweet and made me much braver in my communications.

In terms of an author contacting me after reviewing their work.....hmmm. Beth Fantaskey was hilarious. She said she’d seen my review pop up on the Google alerts but seeing the name of the blog scared her. She shouldn’t have worried, I LOVED Jessica’s Guide for Dating on the Dark Side.

Worst. Hmmm. One author’s mother emailed me to say that I obviously didn’t understand the book because I was critical of one tiny aspect of the book (it received a good review). I am not sure if the author knows her mother does that but it was a little bizarre. I’ve also had an author try and shame me for not liking her book because of her life’s challenges. It made me sad but her home circumstances had nothing to do with the book and there was no reason she should have shared them with me. Even more bizarre.

How aware (and/or supportive) are people in your everyday life of your blogging?

Everyone knows that I do it from friends, family to co-workers. Reading (and blogging) are so much of a part of my life that it’s impossible to keep quiet. That being said, my family don’t read the blog. I don’t even think my mother knows the html address. I tested it earlier in the year by writing a really personal post on my siblings and nothing. Crickets ever.

My sister does know some of the lingo now. She used YA in an email the other day and I was so proud :P She was reading a lot of the books that would come to me for review and she’s a harder critic that I. Her normal response....meh. But she would keep reading. My brother and father don’t read. The latter hasn’t read a book since grade 10 which was 1968 – yeah, it horrifies me too. My mother is the queen of hippy dippy self-guided journey books and trashy romances...my brother is named after a kilt wearing hero. I wish I were kidding.

I’ve had a few things that should have sparked more response but didn’t. Being a member of the Inkys judging panel last year, having a quote used on the back cover of a book and meeting Melina Marchetta received a smile and that’s it. It’s been a wonderful way to keep it all in perspective and realise blogging isn’t as big as we sometimes make it in our minds.

What word is most overused on your blog?

It would be the phrase....”that being said.” Or awesome.

For the life of me I cannot find it within myself to like Ann Brashares work. Is there an author whose work you find yourself irrationally disliking?

Ann Brashares. I was lukewarm on the Sisterhood series (which got progressively worse). Then I read and loathed The Last Summer....so much so that it actually hurt me. I read 3 Willows for review and declared myself done. My dislike is irrational as she does write well but I think it is a case of not liking the author’s voice. Purely subjective.

Publishers do a great deal for the YA community but what could they be doing to increase the effectiveness of the blogger/publisher relationship?

Target bloggers specifically for their interests. Stop sending out gratuitous amounts of ARCS. Be targeted, be specific. Send fantasy books to fantasy fan or focused bloggers, send contemporary to those that dig contemporary etc. Getting stacks of ARCs doesn’t make you a good blogger or better review writer. You improve when you make the time to deconstruct the book and you are not going to do that when the book isn’t your thing and you have stacks of books gathering dust around you. Rhiannon gave some great advice about how to direct your blog. Don’t do everything. Give your blog a specific stance and cater it to what you are passionate about. Don’t be afraid to tell publicists that you would rather only receive a certain genre – you are saving their money and your time.

Publishers also need to realise that by canvassing the blogosphere isn’t going to sell their book more. They are better off cherry picking a number of bloggers and letting them sell the book on opinion alone. Being hit by marketing spam from publishers and authors on three different fronts of social networking doesn’t make me want the book – it makes me predetermined to NOT like it. If the book is a strong read, it will sell itself to bloggers. Proof in that is Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side. It didn’t hit the bloggerdom hard but over six months word of blog grew and it made most Top 10 lists of 2009.

Book tours – effective marketing or blog flooding?

I don’t like them. I don’t find that they make me want to buy a book. They certainly don’t make pull me in with their content. Their saturated presence annoys me as in most cases it is the perfect example of lazy interviewing. Some of the guest posts make me wonder what the author was thinking....you’re trying to sell your book and writing with that piece?

I’ve even stopped interviewing on the blog for the last few months because I am sick of my own lazy interviewing. This interview series has taught me that the questions are important as are the people you interview....book blog tours have the same principle.

What is something that makes you immediately groan when looking at another blog?

GIVEAWAYS plastered everywhere. I really don’t care. I suspect that they don’t either. Seeing bloggers giveaway books they probably don’t care for annoys me. Giveaways or promotions for products completely unrelated to books also make me feel icky.

Also rainbow fonts....posting in alternating colours *shivers*

And crappy interviews...I used to sicken myself with the same expected questions so I just stopped. If you can’t be inventive and draw interesting or entertaining answers then that’s on you.

Thanks for reading! You can catch me here or as SnarkyWench on twitter :)

Nerds Heart YA - Wanting Mor versus Skunk Girl

For those of you unaware, Nerds Heart YA is an event created to showcase 32 titles that 1) didn't receive a huge amount of publicity and 2) promote diversity in YA literature. This year there was a concerned effort to choose the right titles to promote and there were criteria - books needed to be published in 2009, received minimum press in the blogosphere and feature characters (or are written by authors) who fall within the following categories:

• Person(s) of Color (POC)
• GLBT
• Disability/Mental Illness
• Religious Lifestyle
• Lower Socioeconomic Status

I am very honoured to have been chosen as a second round judge. Valentina from Valentina's Room and Aarti from Booklust made their selections and now it is my turn to make mine from their choices.

Wanting Mor - Rukhsana Khan

Jameela and her family live in a poor, war-torn village in Afghanistan. Even with her cleft lip and lack of educational opportunities, Jameela feels relatively secure, sustained by her Muslim faith and the love of her mother, Mor. But when Mor dies, Jameela’s father impulsively decides to start a new life in Kabul.

Jameela is appalled as he succumbs to alcohol and drugs, then suddenly remarries, a situation that soon has her a virtual slave to a demanding stepmother. After she’s discovered trying to learn to read, Jameela is abandoned in a busy market, eventually landing in an orphanage run by the same army that killed so many members of her family. Throughout it all, the memory of her mother sustains her, giving Jameela the strength to face her father and stepmother when fate brings them together again. Goodreads.

In short...there is an interesting degree of distance created between the reader and the soldiers in this novel. It makes the story less black and white, less political and more focussed on the protagonist, Jameela, who draws upon her mother's memory to propel her through some pretty harsh situations. Despite it's short length it packed an emotional punch but didn't entirely resonate with me.


Skunk Girl - Sheba Karim

If Nina Khan were to rate herself on the unofficial Pakistani prestige point system – the one she’s sure all the aunties and uncles use to determine the most attractive marriage prospects for their children – her scoring might go something like this:

+2 points for getting excellent grades
–3 points for failing to live up to expectations set by genius older sister
+4 points for dutifully obeying parents and never, ever going to parties, no matter how antisocial that makes her seem to everyone at Deer Hook High
–1 point for harboring secret jealousy of her best friends, who are allowed to date like normal teenagers
+2 points for never drinking an alcoholic beverage
–10 points for obsessing about Asher Richelli, who talks to Nina like she’s not a freak at all, even though he knows that she has a disturbing line of hair running down her back. Goodreads.

In short...I really responded to both the self-consciousness that pervaded this novel and the humour that joined it. Life is both light and dark and I think Karim found a way to make Nina's concerns, the reader's concerns. She's a highly relatable character regardless of your own cultural identity and I think that why I responded to this one so well. One of my best friends is Muslim and Nina reminded me of her so much that I wanted to talk to her straight away. The humour is what sold me on Karim's story and made me choose it over Khan's Wanting Mor.

Adele's Choice - Skunk Girl by Sheba Karim