Talk:YA Book Reviews January 9, 2007

From CRBSLS

             Shakespeare's Secret by Elise Broach

Shakespearean scholar Elise Broach has written a mystery involving the question of authorship of Shakespeare's plays, English history at the time of Henry VIII and Ann Boleyn, and the trials of middle schooler Hero. Frequent moves have made friendship difficult for Hero, named for a character in Midsummer Night's Dream. This year as she again starts a new school, she is taunted about her name. She takes refuge in a friendship with a neighbor who is knowledgeable about the history of her new house, and believes the stolen Murphy diamond may be hidden there. Joined by eighth grade heartthrob Danny, the three sleuths uncover secrets Shakespearean and otherwise.

        Girl, 15, Charming but Insane  by Sue Limb

Direct kids who liked Angus Thongs and Full Frontal Snogging to Girl 15, Charming, but Insane by British author Sue Limb.Adolescent issues such as body image and popularity are dealt with in riotous fashion. Jess envies her perfect friend Flora, who is beautiful, smart, popular AND nice! In one attempt to catch the eye of Ben, handsome, unattainable and totally wrong for her, she pads her deficient breasts with baggies filled with minestone soup. Disaster ensues... All is not lost, however, as Mr. Right appears to have been there all along. Lisa Correa Koda Middle School