Review of Rook-Sharon Cameron

With much of the story and action derived from The Scarlet Pimpernel, this novel takes the plot in an interesting direction.  In this Paris of the future, technology has led to a terrible plague that has killed off many citizens .  As a result, all technology has been banned and the continent has gone back to the dark ages.  But some citizens feel that not all technology is evil and could be used for much good, like healing the sick and injured.  A revolution is in progress and citizens are rising up against a corrupt and superstitious government.  Can The Rook free all of the prisoners from the Bastille-like jail?  The action and suspense keep us guessing about the allies and foes of the revolution; the ongoing romance between Sophia and Rene make us care about the characters.  3 Elves - recommended for young readers, teens & adults who care about history.

Review of Astonishing Adventures of Fanboy & Goth Girl-Barry Lyga

Fifteen is a tough year for a teen and if you're a geek with only one friend, it's pretty terrible.  When Fanboy is noticed by a goth girl, Kyra, his self-esteem starts to rise.  Once Kyra finds out about the graphic novel he's working on (a work he hasn't even told his best friend about) and praises it, he starts to realize that he isn't destined to be the isolated geek at school forever. 3 Elves - Recommended for teens & adults who like to see kids rise above bullying