A good recommendation, a pleasant surprise and more.

Dear Blue Sky - Mary Sullivan

This book was mentioned to me by my boss, at the new library I sub at and I was not disappointed. The book is in the Children's section at this library, but I would consider it more YA. The book tells the story of Cassie and her family throughout one year. Cassie's brother has just enlisted and been shipped to Iraq in 2007. Every member of the family has trouble coping at first, but they rally around each other. A great story that deals not only with the loss of a family member, but with all the difficulties of middle school including losing your friends, finding yourself and standing up to bullies.

Emma on Thin Icing - Coco Simon

This is another on the MCBA list this year. I went in not expecting much (what can you expect from something with a series title The Cupcake Diaries?) and I was pleasantly surprised. Each book on the series focuses on four girls, who are members of the cupcake club. This book focuses on Emma who is struggling to pay for a junior bridesmaid dress, babysit her brother and maintain her commitments to the club after her mother is laid off. While short and sweet it dealt with more than I anticipated and certainly issues that are very relevant today. Plus, someone on Goodreads compared it to the Babysitter's Club, which we all loved as children.

The Unwanteds - Lisa McMann

I'm not quite done this book yet, but very nearly. At 13 citizens of Quill are sorted into three groups - wanted, necessary and unwanted. The unwanteds are sent to die, but instead they find a magical, marvelous land, Artime. But unwanted Alex can't stop thinking about his wanted twin brother Aaron. Will he put all of Artime at risk just to see his brother again? I've enjoyed this so far and kids will eat up this new fantasy series (book 2 is already out). Also on a MCBA pick, The Unwanteds is far more satisfying than the other fantasy on the list (Peter Nimble).

The Red Pyramid - Rick Riordan

I've been working my way through a lot of myths and Rick Riordan in preparation for my new program this fall. While they are enjoyable I think I've hit my Rick Riordan limit at three very close to each other. They are just a bit too similar with not enough character development between the action for me. I'm slightly afraid to start Loki's Wolves (same idea, different author) which must come soon, if not next.