#46-Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs

(304 pgs) Also from the Lone Star List for next year...and another good read. I'm really enjoying next years titles so much better than this years - thank goodness! This could be summed up as Little Mermaid goes to high school, sorta. Lily is a mermaid princess who's father rules the mer-person kingdom of Thalassinia and whos mother was human. She is attending high school to try and find her mate before her 18th birthday who will then rule the kingdom with her. She loves Brody - seems to be the perfect mate for her, but Quince the annoying next door neighbor keeps showing up at the wrong times...or are they really the right times? Lily has to figure out what is best for her future, and who is best for her. There is a sequel, and I will be anxious to read it and see how these characters are doing. Another one I look forward to recommending!

#45 -Bruiser by Neal Shusterman

(336 pgs) This is another title from the Lone Star list for next year, and another great book by Shusterman. I like this review from Booklist:
"Is it possible to experience joy if you don't experience pain? Is absorbing someone's pain a gift or a curse? Shusterman explores these central questions in the thought-provoking new book. Sixteen year old Tennyson fumes when he learns his twin sister Bronte, is dating Bruiser, they guy voted Most Likely to go to Jail, but Bronte insists Bruiser is misunderstoon. Tennyson is eventually won over and befreinds Bruiser, and that's when the twins notice something odd. Their cuts and bruises disappear overnight while Bruiser is a mass of new hurts; somehow he takes on the pain, both physical and emotional, of the people he cares for. Teh story is narrated by Tennyson, Bronte and Cody, Bruiser's brother, in prose and by Bruiser in free verse, and the individual voices are nicely distinct. It is Tennyson, though who stands out as he evolves from self-centered bully to caring young man and ponders big questions about friendship and sacrifice. A culminating crisis is a bit convenient, but the compelling issues and engaging premise make this a rewarding read."
I couldn't have said it better myself! Again, one I look forward to promoting!

#44 Brain Jack by Brian Falkner

(368 pgs) This was a compelling read from the moment I picked it up. I was reading our digital library version...and since its all about computers and technology it was a weird feeling. He states in the introduction that he is hacking into your computer while you are reading about him...and it's all so realistic you can believe it's actually happening! Sam is a computer 'genius' and has the abilities to do things most of us couldn't imagine. While a lot of the terms used in the book were either made up (I'm hoping) or over my head completely, it is still possible to follow the story. Sam penetrates the most secure computer system in order to purchase himself a 'neuro-headset' which takes the place of a keyboard and a mouse for computers of the future. In the process, Sam is busted and sent to prison for his hacking...or is that just what his mother is lead to believe? Is Sam working for the government? Are the neuro-headsets safe? Is Sam a good guy or a bad guy? I'm not telling! Read it...you will be glad you did. I look forward to booktalking this one for kids next year!

#43 - Drums, Girls, & Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick

(273 pgs) This was the book I should have read before After Ever After, but I didn't know that. I really liked this book as well. It examines the life of 8th grader Stephen Alper when his little brother is diagnosed with cancer. Steven experiences the typical frustration of becoming an invisible child while all his parents energy and attention is focused on his little brother. While he's dealing with his brothers diagnosis, he's also trying to survive 8th grade...which isn't easy under any circumstance. A great story and seemingly realistic portrayal of what a family would go through in a situation like this. I will recommend it to others for sure!