Striker: Sudden Death by Nick Hale

Sudden Death by Nick Hale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Jake's father is a former pro-football(soccer) player turned coach who has now been offered a job coaching the Russian St. Petersburg team. The team scout collapses at dinner with Jake and his father and foul-play is suspected. Twists and turns abound as more people surrounding the team turn up dead. Jake begins to suspect his father has something to do with the murders and begins to investigate himself.

The plot is interesting although the writing is at times bogged down by heavy description. Fans of Robert Muchamore's Cherub series may enjoy this series as well. The action scenes fly, but other scenes move too slowly due to the abundance of description. All in all, a good, solid start to a mystery series that middle school and high school students will enjoy.

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Like Mandarin

Like Mandarin by Kirsten Hubbard
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

After reading Hubbard's second book Wanderlove I was super excited to read her first book Like Mandarin. One of the things that Hubbard does extremely well is use the setting as an additional character. Set in Wyoming, Like Mandarin is the story of 14 year old brainy Grace and her fascination with 18 year old Mandarin who is known for her trysts with men and running wild through town. Grace is tasked to help Mandarin complete a community service project for graduation. As the two become friends, it is increasingly clear that both girls suffer from psychological issues. Mandarin decides to take off for California after graduation in search of a modeling career and asks Grace to join her.

The opening is promising, but Grace's obsession with Mandarin turns disturbing. I had trouble making heads or tails of the girls relationship and struggled to find the message. That being said, the writing is strong and descriptive. Overall, this is one that might appeal to some teen girls, but I feel that Wanderlove is a stronger effort with a larger appeal.

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Between the Lines by Jodi Picoult
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Charming, unique book. Between the Lines had an unexpected charm. It is the story of a book character who wants to break free from his fairy tale. It's a unique take that incorporates fairy tales and modern teen life. This is one that will appeal to a wide teen audience. Some of Jodi Picoult's adult followers may enjoy this one as well.

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The Future of Us by Jay Asher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having been a high school student in the mid-90s I have to say I loved this book! The pop culture references were spot on and took me right back to my teen years. I'm not sure how much teens of today will relate to it, but I do think they will like the social media aspect of it.

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