Review of LOOKING FOR ALASKA by John Green

Continuing my John Green marathon, I recently finished LOOKING FOR ALASKA.  There were some great characters and interesting philosophical questions in this book, but I wouldn't recommend it for young teens.  Because of the excessive smoking and drinking, I would say readers 16 and up would be a better audience for this work.  Recommended - three Elves

Review of PAPER TOWNS by John Green

After loving The Fault in Our Stars, I'm now catching up on John Green novels.  The main character in Paper Towns is Quentin, a nerdish, video-playing senior in high school.  Quentin has always played it safe, at least until Margo Roth Spiegelman climbs into his bedroom window one night and takes him on a wild adventure.  Suddenly, playing it safe is less appealing and after Margo disappears, Quentin needs to step up his game and try to find her.  But the Margo he thought he knew is full of surprises and he realizes he probably never really knew her, but he is learning more about himself and his friends.  Recommended - three Elves

Review of BEAUTIFUL CREATURES by Garcia ( Stohl

 I don't know how I missed reading this YA novel but after reading fairly good reviews for the movie, I decided it was time to read the book.  This tale of star-crossed lovers is full of Southern eccentrics and seems to simply drip with Spanish moss.  In spite of that or maybe because of that, I really loved this book.  The characters, Ethan and Lena, drew me in from the first page.  When Lena is bullied because she's so different, you root for her as you root for any bullied kid.  But Lena finds her hidden powers and fights back, especially when she has Ethan in her corner.  The supernatural aspects of the book were different enough to feel new and unusual - also loved the Civil War elements.  Highly recommended - four Elves