Tag Archives: Young Adult

Unwound: Kind of like tough love but totally sicko. Awesome.

Posted on April 24, 2011 by talkingwords

Here’s another dystopian novel. And it’s excellent – a completely engrossing read. Unwind, by Neal Shusterman, is told from three points of view; Connor,Riesa, and Lev, which I initially found disappointing. I never enjoy the jarring transition from occupying one … Continue reading →

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Jellicoe Road: an Australian journey

Posted on April 12, 2011 by talkingwords

I had to check out On the Jellicoe Road by Malina Marchetta because of the rave reviews I was catching on the internet. It also didn’t hurt that it won the most prestigious award for young adult literature – the Michael … Continue reading →

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Let’s face it – zombies are awesome

Posted on November 17, 2010 by talkingwords

Did you ever notice that zombies are always in packs? Like when was the last time you saw a lone zombie? Also, isn’t it cool to have a coming of age story with zombies? I bet you never really considered the … Continue reading →

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Before I Fall

Posted on August 16, 2010 by talkingwords

I decided to read Before I Fall, by Lauren Oliver, because it seemed to be getting some buzz. It’s a first novel and it’s obvious that this is an author to watch. I found her writing consistently sharp and witty … Continue reading →

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A fantasy novel *gasp* to enjoy

Posted on August 1, 2010 by talkingwords

I don’t read fantasy. I certainly don’t read high fantasy. But Graceling, by Kristin Cashore grabbed me from the first page. The main character, Katsa, is a graceling – one of the gifted people in the seven kingdoms that are … Continue reading →

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Evolution, Me, and Other Freaks of Nature, by Robin Brande

Posted on July 13, 2010 by talkingwords

This book is an excellent read. It throws us into immediate conflict. Mena Reese is a freshman in high school and is being shunned by her parents, best friend, and entire social circle. The reason for this is not immediately revealed. … Continue reading →

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Can’t resist an excellent dystopia

Posted on July 1, 2010 by talkingwords

Thanks to Scott Robins for recommending this book. I really couldn’t put it down. See all those award stickers on the cover? You’ll understand why when you read it. I have to admit that it started a bit slow at … Continue reading →

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The Book Thief

Posted on June 10, 2010 by talkingwords

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a thing of beauty. Narrated by Death, it recounts the story of nine year old Liesel Meminger in World War II Germany. This book was marketed as an adult book in the author’s … Continue reading →

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Paper Towns by John Green

Posted on June 9, 2010 by talkingwords

Paper Towns, the Michael L. Printz Award winner for Excellent in Young Adult Literature is a masterpiece of young adult literature and sets the bar extremely high for other books of this genre. This novel combines outstanding storytelling, humour, and contemplative insight though … Continue reading →

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Mackenzie, Lost and Found

Posted on June 9, 2010 by talkingwords

Mackenzie Hill is still grieving over the death of her mother when her father, a York University archaeology professor, informs her that they’ll be spending a sabbatical year in Jerusalem. She’s resentful about the move so her father offers for … Continue reading →

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