The Naturals by Jennier Lyn Barnes-ESSENTIAL

Barnes, Jennifer Lyn, The Naturals. Pgs. 326. Miramax Books, 2013. Content: Language: PG, Mature Content: PG-13, Violence: PG-13

17-year-old Cassie has a unique way of reading people and getting into murderer’s heads. Recruited by the FBI, she discovers that she’s a natural, a person who has special abilities to help solve crimes. Being raised by her dad’s loud Italian family, she goes into the program with the hopes of finding her mother’s murderer. As she investigates the murder, she suddenly finds herself the target of someone who appears to be committing copycat murders like her mom’s. Who can she trust? Who really killed her mom?

An intense, action-packed, creepy novel that will appeal to horror fans of everywhere. The plot is well-developed and the author does a great job of drawing the readers into Cassie’s world. Readers who like mystery, action, suspense, and murder will love reading this book. MS, HS. ESSENTIAL. Reviewer: Jessica Moody, Library Media Specialist, Olympus Jr. High.

The Hypnotists by Gordon Korman-OPTIONAL

Korman, Gordon, The Hypnotists. Pgs. 240. Scholastic, 2013. $16.99 Content: Language: PG (5 or 6 swears, no “f:s),, Mature Content: PG, Violence: PG-13

Jackson Opus is the descendant of two powerful hypnotist bloodlines. He doesn’t start to realize it, however, until he magically hypnotizes the bus driver to get him to his basketball practice in time. After this incident, he begins to realize that he has a way of convincing people to do what he wants. After a run-in with a stage hypnotist, he is recruited to the Sentia Institute, run by Dr. Elias Mako, friend to politicians and movie stars everywhere. As he begins training his skills, Jackson encounters another hypnotist, former con artist Axel Braintree. Axel claims that Mako’s intentions may be nefarious. As the evidence mounts, Jax comes to realize there may be some truth to Braintree’s accusations. But will he be able to stop the power-mad doctor? Who will  Jackson believe?

The overall story runs a little thin at times, but the adventure is quick and thrilling. The characters are intriguing and the plot is unique despite its shortcomings. Readers who are fans of Gordon Korman and like adventure, mystery, and suspense will enjoy reading this book.  MS. OPTIONAL. Reviewer: Jessica Moody, Library Media Specialist, Olympus Jr. High.

The Knight at Dawn (Magic Treehouse #2 Full Color Re-Release) by Mary Pope Osborne –ADVISABLE

Osborne, Mary Pope and Illustrated by Murdocca, Sal The Knight at Dawn (Magic Treehouse #2 Full Color Re-Release) 96 pgs. Random House Books for Young Readers, 2013. $14.99  CHAPTER BOOK Content: Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.

Its fun to read about Jack and Annie’s early adventures. In this second book, they are still confused about the nature of the magic treehouse. Annie is much more enthusiastic and a bit reckless. Jack goes along for the ride as the voice of reason. They end up in medieval castle and eventually end up swimming the moat!

These full color hardbound re-releases are a great way to freshen up, your no-doubt well read and well loved set of Magic Treehouse books. The illustrations are really fantastic and spread across multiple pages, and the cover is eye catching! Though I should I add, I didn't realize that the author included a mention of prisoner hangings! Would hate to explain that to a first grader.

EL (K-3) –ADVISABLE Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author.

A Sister More LIke Me by Barbara Jean Hicks-ADVISABLE

Hicks, Barbara Jean, A Sister More Like Me. Pgs. 30. Disney Hyperion, 2013. $15.99 PICTURE BOOK.

When they were younger they did everything together. As they grew older, one of the sisters developed magical powers. Now, they are growing apart and becoming two different people. Will they wish for a sister more like them or will they learn to accept each other?

A sweet, endearing picture book for all ages. The text is simple and rhymes. The pictures are colorful and detailed. A story any girl can relate to despite the magic, young children will appreciate and enjoy this read aloud. PreK, EL (K-3). ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Jessica Moody, Library Media Specialist, Olympus Jr. High.