Intriguing dystopian teen read set in a society a lot like the one in Lowry's The Giver. Didn't grip me like The Hunger Games did but I think it's a solid beginning to the series.

Dishy but never b*tchy, Kristin Chenoweth's memoir is a bit of girl-chat fun, anchored by her love for family and belief in God and His hand in her life. The narrative thread is jumpy, although you can see how they're trying to organize things--at least in the beginning. After a while I just quit worrying about it. I listened to the audiobook version, which was a good choice, I think.

Deadbeat cab driver Ed Kennedy begins receiving cryptic messages in his mailbox--clues that lead him to people in need of help. Although Ed doesn't know who has chosen him for this or why, he moves ahead with his assignments. The book is moving and thought-provoking, but I would NOT classify it as YA. The themes are mature and, at 19-20 years old, so are the characters. There is a LOT of profanity, so be warned if that turns you off.

I couldn't put this one down! Jack and his Ma live in Room, a converted garden shed where his mother has been imprisoned for 7 years. Jack was born in Room and has no idea the outside world exists. Because it's told through a 5-year-old's eyes, the sexual abuse suffered by his Ma is only implied (but still plenty chilling). The book is much more focused on the bond between Ma and Jack, her commitment to providing a secure, nurturing, and creative environment for him, and how they are tested when rescue comes and the Jack's entire world explodes.

I was so excited to read this book because of how much I loved Wednesday Wars. I loved this one too, right up until the end when I had to call major B.S. A character experiences an (in my opinion) improbable change of heart for the sake of a happyish ending. Even though I was hoping for the happy ending, the way it played out felt false. I don't know what would have been better, though. I still think it's worth reading, especially if you loved Wednesday Wars (which, hi, everyone should).

Mac and Vince are 6th graders running a successful "problem-solving" business out of the school bathroom. When a little kid comes in with a BIG problem, they get in over their heads & must use all their wits and resources to outsmart a local crime legend. Written in a noir detective style, it's worth reading just for the hilarious character sketches of the bullies Mac hires. As a grown woman with a son who will one day be in school, this book stressed me right out. But boys (and girls) between 9-13 will love it. It's set up to be the first in a series and I already have kids in the library asking about the sequel.