Towering by Alex Flinn

SYNOPSIS:  Rachel is locked away in a tower, watching her hair grow, and wishing for some social interaction.  Wyatt is looking to escape his social life, after the tragic loss of his best friend.  Somehow, they seem destined to find each other, and save each other from their dismal lives.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  As far as content goes, I have very few complaints.  There were some brief sexual references, including an illegitimate pregnancy, but aside from those, the book was very mild in content.  The writing and storytelling wasn't the best I've read, but it was entertaining.  I would recommend it to older readers who like fairy-tale retellings.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults, older Teens

RATING:  PG with some brief Sexual References

STARS:  2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Wings, Beastly

The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel Series by Michael Scott

SYNOPSIS:  Sophie and Josh thought they were ordinary twins, until the fateful day they began new jobs, and unknowingly met Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel.  After that, their lives are no longer the same, and they are thrown into a whirlwind ride of action and adventure, meeting famous historical figures as they try to save the world, and find out if they are the Twins of Legend.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Although these books have potential, with both historical figures and action and adventure, they were a bit cumbersome to wade through.  The author is very thorough and descriptive, so it is a bit slow going at times.  Also, since most of the characters in the book are historical figures from all over the world, all throughout time, it gets a little confusing at points, with several stories being told at the same time.  Sometimes, the stories taking place are in alternate realities, or Shadow Realms.  As far as content goes, the only complaint I have is some action violence.  I would recommend the books to those who aren't bogged down by long and descriptive writing.

AUDIENCE:  Teens

RATING:  PG13 for Action Violence

STARS:  3

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Percy Jackson, Kane Chronicles, Inkheart

Heist Society Series by Ally Carter

SYNOPSIS:  Kat was trying to escape the life she has always led:  that of a thief.  However, she discovers that she can't run from her past, as she is called back into her life of crime to save the ones she loves.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I loved every minute of this series!  Kat is a strong, smart, and capable protagonist, and her ragtag gang of thieves is lovable and entertaining.  I will note that there were some brief sexual references, but they were pretty mild.  I would definitely recommend this series.

AUDIENCE:  Teens and Young Adults

RATING:  PG with some lewd jokes and language

STARS:  4

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Virals, The Agency

The False Princess by Eilis O'Neal

SYNOPSIS:  Nalia has been raised to believe she is the princess of Thorvaldor.  However, she discovers that she has been a pawn in a plot to protect the real princess, and is really the orphaned daughter of two peasants.  However, even this story is not as it seems.  Nalia must discover the truth, at the risk of her own life, and the true princess's.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I enjoyed this book.  It had just the right mix of fairy-tale adventure, romance, and mystery.  I would definitely recommend it.

AUDIENCE:  Teens

RATING:  PG with some Violence

STARS:  4

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The False Prince, Princess Academy

Emerald Green by Kerstin Gier

SYNOPSIS:  Gwen's story concludes in the last book of the Ruby Red Trilogy.  While trying to unravel the mystery of Count Saint-German, she is also brooding over a broken heart.  However, she must pull herself together, or someone is going to die--probably her!

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I loved this series.  It had adventure, romance, and mystery.  I would recommend it to older readers, keeping in mind that there is some mild sensuality and sexual references.

AUDIENCE:  Teens and Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Sexual References, Language, and Sensualty

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Agency, I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You

Bella at Midnight by Diane Stanley

SYNOPSIS:  This is the story, told from many points of view, of Isabel.  She is placed with a foster mother, after her mother dies.  Little does she know the role she will have to play for their kingdom.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I enjoyed this book.  It was a fun fairy tale, with a strong protagonist.  I would recommend it for teens who enjoy fairy-tale style stories.

AUDIENCE:  Teens

RATING:  PG with some Violence

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Beauty, Princess Academy

The Mighty Miss Malone by Christopher Paul Curtis

SYNOPSIS:  Deza Malone is a smart girl growing up in hard times.  She watches as her family crumbles under the strain of the Great Depression.  When her father leaves to find work, she and her mother go on a quest to get their family back together.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This is another educational, but sad book.  It is a good view of life as a young, African-American girl during the Great Depression.  I would recommend it to readers mature enough to handle the subject matter.

AUDIENCE:  Teens

RATING:  PG for Mature Subject Matter

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Weedflower, Esperanza Rising

Code by Kathy Reichs and Brendan Reichs

SYNOPSIS:  The third in the Virals Series picks up where the last left off:  Tory endures her father's girlfriend, while hanging out with her super-powered friends.  When they discover a puzzle box, and try to unravel its mysteries, they are caught up in a high-stakes hunt, that leaves them all reeling.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I like the adventure and fast-paced plot of this series, so I would recommend it to older readers.  However, I would note that there is some language and violence in this book, as in the others of the series.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Violence and Language

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Maximum Ride, Partials

I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter

SYNOPSIS:  Cammie belongs to the elite group of spies-in-training, known as the Gallagher Girls.  However, the group that is trained for anything is soon stumped by something none of them know anything about:  a boy.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This book was innocent fun, but a bit silly in places.  I would recommend it for teens who enjoy espionage-type stories and strong female protagonists.

AUDIENCE:  Teens

RATING:  PG with mild Sensuality

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Agency, Airhead

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

SYNOPSIS:  Lina's life is turned upside down when her family is taken roughly from their home by Soviet Guards.  They are separated from her father and taken to a prison camp with inhumane conditions.  Although Lina grows bitter, she struggles to keep her identity, and learns what is most important in life.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This book was very, very sad.  However, it is also educational.  I had never known the treatment those under the rule of Stalin had to endure.  So I would recommend it only to older readers who are prepared for the dramatic subject matter.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Adult Topics, Violence, and Sexual Reference

STARS:  3

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Weedflower, The Hiding Place

The Fall of Five, The Revenge of Seven, The Fate of Ten, and United as One by Pittacus Lore

SYNOPSIS:  The team from Lorien recooperates after a taxing battle with Setrakus Ra.  They decide to find number Five, and hone their fighting skills.  But someone in their midst is a traitor, and they need to find out who it is before they are all destroyed.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  At first, I was really enjoying this book.  It was a nice respite from the breakneck pace and intense violence of the other books in the series.  But, without spoiling things, I will say that the strong violence and dark plot twists were still present in the latest of the series.  I would only recommend it to older readers, if at all.

SYNOPSIS:  After taking some serious hits, and losing some of their team, the Garde must continue with their mission.  Thankfully, they find help from an unexpected source.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Again, there is some strong violence, with the addition of some strong language.  However, for fans of the intense, action-packed series, I'm sure this installment will satisfy.

SYNOPSIS:  The Mogadorians are invading Earth.  The Garde decide to split up, with some defending, and others looking for a secret weapon.  Then, suprisingly, humans begin to display legacies, and come to their aid.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Once more, there is some intense violence in this book, and some strong language.  I felt like this book moved slowly, and I was disappointed with yet another cliffhanger ending.  However, it is more of the same excitement and beloved characters.

SYNOPSIS:  Having taken a major hit in Mexico, John and his team are struggling to regroup in their final battle against Setrakus Ra.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This book was a satisfying conclusion to the well-loved series.  I was happy with the ending, and felt like it fit well with the rest of the story.  However, there was still the strong language and violence included in the other novels of  the series.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Language, Violence, and Graphic/Dark imagery

STARS:  3

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  I am Number Four, 13 Days to Midnight

Private by Kate Brian

SYNOPSIS:  Reed has always wanted to attend Easton Academy.  She is ecstatic when she is accepted, and even more thrilled when the elite clique known as the Billings Girls starts to take notice of her.  However, when they ask her to do increasingly depraved things to remain in their group, she questions the value of remaining their friend.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I kept waiting for this book to have a moral--for the main character to learn her lesson and ditch the other characters, who are clearly a bad influence on her.  However I waited in vain.  They treated her poorly, asked her to do dishonest and mean things, and she willingly did them.  I definitely wouldn't want a teen reading this book and deciding to emulate her behavior, which is questionable at best.  Also, I ended up skipping several parts which included strong sensuality, drug use, and strong language.  I'd definitely skip this one.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults/Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Strong Sensuality, Language, Drug use, and Immoral Behavior

STARS:  0

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Future of Us, Along For the Ride

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

SYNOPSIS:  Jacob has always loved his grandfather's stories of the peculiar children with special powers that he grew up with.  Since his friends began to tease him about them, he has believed they are just that-stories.  When his grandfather is brutally killed, he sees something that leads him to believe that the stories have some truth to them.  He knows what he saw, the creature that took his grandfather's life.  Getting others to believe him is an entirely different matter, however, and nothing prepares him for what he discovers while in England with his father.  There is a whole hidden world awaiting him there.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This series is extremely dark, and at times a bit abstract.  I really enjoyed the first one, and its antique flavor.  However, it was a bit disturbing at times, with some strong violence.  As the series progresses, there are some concepts which are difficult to understand and keep up with, along with more violence.  I'd recommend it to older readers who have a taste for dark and somewhat abstract fiction.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults, Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Violence and Graphic Imagery, as well as some crude language

STARS:  2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  I am Number Four, Gone

The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening by L.J. Smith

SYNOPSIS:  Elena has everything.  So when Stefan moves into town and takes no notice of her, she puts everything on the line to get him to notice her.  Unfortunately, he has a dark and mysterious past, and eventually, Elena realizes she really will have to put everything on the line to be with him.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Bad news for Twilight fans:  there was another book about a vampire who falls in love with a human before Twilight.  In many ways, this book is very similar.  However, I think the reason it hasn't gained the same popularity as Twilight is that it isn't as good.  The heroine is whiny and spoiled.  She uses those around her to get what she wants, with complete disregard to their feelings.  Her love interest is mopey and weak.  Plus there is a lot of bloodsucking going on, with strong sensual undertones.  This, unfortunately, is another read I'd skip.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Violence, Sensuality, and Disturbing Imagery

STARS: 1 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Twilight, Shiver

Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick by Joe Schrieber

SYNOPSIS:  Perry works hard to please his parents.  So even though his band is playing at a club the night of prom, when his dad asks/tells him to take the foreign exchange student living with their family, he does.  However, things don't go as planned when his date morphs into a trained killer.  As everything falls apart around him, he tries to figure out what the right thing to do is.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I review a lot of books geared towards girls, so here is one geared towards boys.  Unfortunately, I found it a little offensive in places (as in, the narrator's description of girls, and crude language).  Also, as you would expect, it is quite violent, with graphic imagery throughout.  There is some strong language and sexual references as well.  I'd skip this book.

AUDIENCE:  Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Strong Language, Sexual References, Violence and Graphic Imagery

STARS:  1

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Gone, I Am Number Four

Struck by Jennifer Bosworth

SYNOPSIS:  Mia has been struck by lightning so many times, she craves it.  However, she knows it is dangerous.  Not just for her, but for those around her.  After a huge earthquake and storm bring life around her to a complete halt, she finds herself choosing sides between a religious cult, and a secret society, both of whom want her on their side.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This book was very dark.  In my opinion, too dark.  Also, I felt the writing didn't flow very well, and I was a bit distracted by the narrator's side comments sometimes.  I also didn't like the presentation of the two opposing sides. It could be my misinterpretation, but I thought it symbolized good vs. evil, with a strong inclination toward the evil side.  In my opinion, that's not the best message to send to its target audience.  However, that is just my opinion.  I wouldn't recommend this read, and would especially not recommend it for younger readers due to the dark, and sometimes disturbing content.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Violence, Language, and Disturbing Imagery

STARS:  1 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Poison Princess, Partials

Fathomless by Jackson Pearce

SYNOPSIS:  Celia and her two sisters are special. They can see the past, present and future by touching people.  However, Celia has always felt different and separate from her sisters.  When she meets an interesting young man, and an even more interesting sea-girl, she learns that her powers can be very useful.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This book was a bit gritty and real for me.  There was quite a bit of violence, and some frightening imagery.  I wasn't a fan, but I could see others being interested.  I would definitely not recommend it for younger readers, since there is some graphic violence, and some language and sensuality.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult

RATING:  PG13 for disturbing imagery, Violence, Language, and Sensuality

STARS:  1 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Poison Princess, Wither

Mystic City by Theo Lawrence

SYNOPSIS:  Aria is engaged to marry Thomas Foster.  No one can believe it, even Aria.  Their families are rivals, and she can't seem to remember anything about their relationship since her accident.  As time goes by, and she tries to fill in the missing memories, she finds herself drawn to another mysterious young man named Hunter.  She hopes he can help her to understand her past.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I had a hard time with this book.  I just get a little irritated with heroines who sit passively by while others take all the risks and dive in front of bullets for them.  Also, there was some language, and quite a bit of violence, as well as a same-gender kiss.  (Or at least it appears that way at first.)  I'd skip this one, or at least save it for older readers.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Violence, Sensuality, and Language

STARS:  2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Delirium, Birthmarked

Speaking From Among the Bones by Alan Bradley

SYNOPSIS:  There is another dead body found in Bishop's Lacey, and there is little surprise that Flavia de Luce is on hand to help with the investigation.  No doubt she will discover who is to blame for the newest murder, all while keeping her family members on their toes.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Naturally, I loved this book, as I love all of the Flavia De Luce novels.  My only regret is that this book ended with an uncharacteristic cliff hanger, which is unfortunate, since it is the newest in the series.  I would definitely recommend it to any lovers of mystery novels.

AUDIENCE:  Adults

RATING:  PG with some Violence and Graphic Imagery

STARS:  5

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  I am Half-Sick of Shadows, The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

Sapphire Blue

SYNOPSIS:  Gwen continues to try to solve the mystery behind the Circle, of whom she is now a member.  Her time-traveling partner Gideon does little to help her, sending her mixed signals, and keeping secrets of his own.  As the danger increases, Gwen isn't sure who she can really trust.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  As often happens in a series, this book had more content issues than the first of the series. Although I did enjoy the adventure and romance, as well as the witty, comical heroine, there was more sensuality, language, and maturation references in this book.  I would recommend it only for older readers.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Sensuality, Sexual and Maturation References, Language, and Violence

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Agency, A Great and Terrible Beauty

The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom

SYNOPSIS:  This book follows the true story of Corrie Ten Boom, who was put in a concentration camp after her efforts to protect Jews living in WWII Holland.  Somehow, she miraculously pulls through with her optimistic attitude in tact.  Her story is one of hope and sacrifice.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Although the subject matter in this book is depressing and negative, it is told with a shining optimism that changes the way we view the world.  This book is a wonderful story of how a good attitude can change everything.  It has a very strong Christian message, however, which may not appeal to some readers.

AUDIENCE:  Adult and Young Adult

RATING:  PG for mature subject matter and some adult references

STARS:  4

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Book Thief, The Vow

Weedflower by Cynthia Kadohata

SYNOPSIS:  Sumiko has always stood out from her classmates.  As a Japanese-American girl living in the midst of WWII, her life is turned upside down.  Her family is sent to Japanese Internment camp, where she spends her day fighting the Ultimate Boredom.  In the end, she must decide who she wants to be in a country that doesn't celebrate her heritage.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I thought this was a great portrayal of life as a Japanese-American girl in the WWII era.  The character was strong, smart, and believable.  I would recommend this book to preteen and teen readers.

AUDIENCE:  Preteen, Teens

RATING: PG

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate, Holes

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

SYNOPSIS:  Katsa is Graced.  She has two different colored eyes, and a special talent.  When those around her conclude that her grace is for killing, however, they grow suspicious, and feel uncomfortable in her presence.  She becomes her uncle's hired thug, obeying his commands, even when she disagrees with them.  However, she begins to wish for something more, as she sees the unfairness of her uncle's ruler-ship.  When an opportunity arises for her to help right an injustice, she leaves her uncle to try another life.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Although the story had merit, this book was a little bit too far on the fantasy side for me.  Also, there was quite a bit of sensuality in the book, as well as plenty of violence.  I would only recommend it for older readers, if any.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Sensuality and Violence

STARS:  1 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Alanna Series, Eon

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly

SYNOPSIS:  Calpurnia isn't an ordinary girl living in at the turn of the century.  Unlike her friends, who are eagerly learning how to sew, knit, and cook, Calpurnia thirsts for knowledge.  Scientific knowledge, to be exact. She wants to know all about the world around her, and her grandfather, with his love of Darwinian theory is the perfect person to teach her.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This is a good book for young girls who love science.  Calpurnia is a hapless cook, but a budding scientist.  Her adventures are fun and comical.  There is some brief allusion to the theory of evolution, however, which some readers may not enjoy.

AUDIENCE:  Children, Pre-teens

RATING:  PG

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Little House Series, Anne of Green Gables

A Corner of the Universe by Ann M. Martin

SYNOPSIS:  Hattie Owen lives a predictable life.  Every summer, her one and only best friend leaves, and Hattie is left to entertain herself.  As long as she avoids her high-society grandmother, she feels she will be fine.  But when her mentally ill uncle comes to visit, things are thrown into complete unpredictability.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Although there was some sensuality in this book, as well as some mature subject matter, I think it is a good telling of living with mental illness.  I would recommend it for older readers who are prepared for the adult topics addressed.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult and Adult

RATING:  PG13 for some sensuality and violence

STARS:  2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Cardturner, Wonderstruck

Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell

SYNOPSIS:  Karana has never known anything but her island.  She loves the animals, and her life with her family.  But when foreigners come to the island, everything changes.  In the end, Karana is dependent on her skills and knowledge to survive, alone.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I had never read this book, and knowing it was a classic, I decided to try it out.  I'll be honest and say it wasn't really my style, but I think that is mostly personal preference.  The main character is definitely a strong protagonist, and the storytelling and description are great, as well.  I would recommend it for teen and pre-teen readers who enjoy stories of strength and survival.

AUDIENCE:  Pre-teens and Teens

RATING:  PG for Violence and Graphic Imagery

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Hatchet, Little House Series

Of Poseidon Series by Anna Banks

SYNOPSIS:  While vacationing in Florida, Emma meets Galen, who turns out to be one of the Syrena, merpeople who live in the ocean.  Things only get stranger when Galen turns up at her school, and tries to convince her that she, too is Syrena.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Although I'll admit the plot of this book is fun, and the writing is comical and entertaining, it wasn't long before I realized it was very similar to Twilight.  Same handsome, (creepy) love interest, same klutzy, everyday girl, and a bit of sensuality and teen lust.  Also, the point of view changed from the first person, present tense to third person, present tense, which was confusing.  All in all, the book was entertaining, but not too original or substantial.  Also, I would warn that, especially in the last book, there is some strong sensuality, violence and language, so I would reserve it for older readers.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Sensuality and Graphic Imagery

STARS:  2 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Twilight, Shiver

Airhead Trilogy by Meg Cabot

SYNOPSIS:  Emerson Watts is a "real" girl.  She doesn't care much about her appearance, and is much more interested in video games than fashion.  But when she chaperons her little sister's visit to a CD signing, she has the unique opportunity to see what it is like to be a gorgeous, thin model.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Like some of Meg Cabot's other novels, this one had some sensuality and language content.  There wasn't too much substance to the story, either.  Honestly, I think I'd skip this series.

AUDIENCE:  Teens and Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Language and Sexual References

STARS:  2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Princess Diaries, Anna and the French Kiss

Cahills vs. Vespers

SYNOPSIS:  The Cahills have the 39 clues, but there is more adventure to be had as the evil Vespers take their loved ones for ransom and force them to steal priceless artifacts for them.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Although I thought The 39 Clues was a fun, educational read, I thought this newer installment was a little too mature for younger kids.  I don't want to spoil the story for anyone, but there is definitely some violence and death in this series.  In the end, I didn't feel the plot was too rewarding, either.  I don't think I'd recommend this series, especially for younger readers.

AUDIENCE:  Teens

RATING:  PG and PG13 for Violence and some Language

STARS:  1

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Theodore Boone, Kid Lawyer, A Series of Unfortunate Events

13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher

SYNOPSIS:  Clay is confused to find a set of cassette tapes on his porch one day.  When he listens to the tapes, he is horrified to discover that they are a suicide "note" from Hannah Baker.  Each of the tapes is about a person who contributed to her suicide.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  When I started the book, I was interested, thinking it had a good message for how our treatment of others affects them.  However, as the book went on, the actions of the characters got more graphic and horrifying.  I'll admit I skipped some portions.  Because of the graphic description of very mature subject matter (including sexual assault), I would be reluctant to recommend this book.  I would definitely reserve it for older readers only.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult, Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Sensuality, Language, and Adult Subject Matter

STARS:  1 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Speak, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

SYNOPSIS:  Melinda hasn't spoken much since the night of the party.  She is somewhat of an outcast after calling the police and ending the party, getting some of her fellow students into trouble.  However, Melinda knows the side of the story no one else does.  As she struggles to come to peace with what happened, she tries to find her voice.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This is definitely not a book for younger readers.  Its subject matter is very mature in nature.  It includes sensuality and sexual reference, as well as violence and some language.  However, that being said, for adult or young adult readers, it can be an eye-opening read about the after-effects of sexual abuse.  I would only recommend it for the most mature readers who understand the adult topic.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult, Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Violence, Sensuality, and Adult Material

STARS:  2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  13 Reasons Why, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

SYNOPSIS:  Anna is sent to a Paris boarding school by her parents, and she's not happy about it.  She misses her best friend, her little brother, and the chance to see what might come of her new relationship with a co-worker.  However, as time passes, she makes new friends, and realizes what she gains is worth more than what she has lost.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I'll admit, I'm slightly embarrassed to have read this one.  I feel like I should have seen it for what it was:  a sappy teen romance novel.  There is some strong sensuality in the book, as well as some language and adult issues, such as underage drinking.  I wouldn't recommend this one, especially for younger readers.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Sensuality, Language, and Alcohol Use

STARS:  1

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Along for the Ride, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

Eve by Anna Carey

SYNOPSIS:  After the plague, many children are orphaned.  One of these orphans, Eve, is ready to graduate from her all-girls school.  She excels in all her studies, and is eager to show the world what she knows.  That is, until she learns that her future is not to change the world, but to help repopulate the human species.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Although this story had potential, I don't think it quite lived up to it.  The heroine was weak, letting those around her make the sacrifices for her.  I prefer stronger, more independent heroines.  As far as content goes, there was some graphic imagery and violence, as well as some sensuality.  Although I'm sure others would disagree with me, I wouldn't recommend this book.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Violence and Graphic Imagery, and Sexual Reference

STARS:  1 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Birthmarked, Wither

Parker Pyne Investigates by Agatha Christie

SYNOPSIS:  Parker Pyne is a retired statistician for the British government.  He puts his knowledge to use by helping people find happiness.  His ad brings many unhappy people to his office, all of whom find exactly what is best for them.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I love Agatha Christie.  However, it may be hard for some, especially younger readers, to get into her mysteries, since they are long and sometimes detailed.  This book may be a good starter for young people.  Instead of one big mystery, it includes several smaller stories, which are long enough to be entertaining, and short enough to keep the reader's attention.  While they don't display Agatha Christie's mystery-writing genius to her full potential, they are still fun to read.

AUDIENCE:  Adults

RATING:  PG with some mild references to male and female escorts, and some racial slurs

STARS:  3

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  O. Henry's short stories, The Complete Sherlock Holmes

Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier

SYNOPSIS:  Gwyneth has always lived in her cousin Charlotte's shadow.  Charlotte is polite, smart, and pretty.  More importantly, she is destined to inherit the family's time travel gene, an honor, and a burden.  When Gwyneth starts having symptoms of time travel, however, everything goes awry.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I really enjoyed this book.  It was fun, exciting, and had just exactly the right amount of romance and adventure.  However, there were some content issues, including some mild sensuality and references to maturation, and some mild language.  I would recommend it to older readers.

AUDIENCE:  Teens and Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for mild Sensuality and Language

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Agency, Nicola and the Viscount, Confessions of a Shopaholic

Theodore Boone Series: Kid Lawyer, and The Abduction by John Grisham

SYNOPSIS:  Theo Boone is the result of a lawyer mother and a lawyer father, and no siblings.  In other words, he loves everything related to the legal system.  In fact, he considers himself an amateur lawyer, and frequently gives his schoolmates legal advice.  Being involved with the legal scene also means he gets an inside look at a lot of drama and adventure.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  Although I found these books a little dull, I think they would be great for younger readers, especially any who are interested in the judiciary system.  They are not all action and adventure, but there is some detective work going on, which kids should love.  I would recommend them for younger readers.

AUDIENCE:  Preteens and Children

RATING:  PG for Mild Violence

STARS:  2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The 39 Clues, Dave At Night

The Cardturner by Louis Sachar

SYNOPSIS:  Alton Richards has a rich great-uncle.  His family's fondest wish is to become beneficiaries of his will.  So when he needs a cardturner to help him play bridge, Alton is volunteered for the job.  Over time, Alton learns a lot from his great-uncle, not all of it about bridge.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This book was somewhat slow going, due to the fact that it is about a game I know nothing about.  As the story was told, the author had to keep taking "time outs" to explain what he was talking about.  However, he openly admits this at the beginning of the book.  There are also some content issues, including sexual allusions and some language.  However, it is pretty mild.  All in all, I did enjoy this book, and would recommend it to anyone who isn't bothered with the technical explanations along the way.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Mild Sensuality and Language

STARS:  2 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Dave at Night, Wonderstruck

The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary Pearson

SYNOPSIS:  Jenna wakes up from her coma with no memory of her life.  All she knows is what her parents tell her, and what she learns from watching home videos of her life.  Eventually, as memories start to come back to her, she realizes there is more to her story than anyone is telling her.  She has to come to terms with all that her parents have done to her, and for her while she was unconscious.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This story brings up some interesting topics, including innovative medical technology, and a parent's love.  I enjoyed it.  It did have some graphic imagery, and I think there was some language in it, but all in all, it was a good read.

AUDIENCE:  Teens and Young Adults

RATING:  PG with Violence and Language

STARS:  3

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Partials, Wither

The Vow by Kim and Krickitt Carpenter

SYNOPSIS:  This is the true story of a newlywed couple who are involved in a horrible car accident.  Afterward, Kim loses her memory from the recent past, and as a result can't remember anything about her new husband.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I had heard this story, and watched the movie, and wanted to read the book to find out the rest of the story.  I'm glad I did, because the book was widely different from the movie, and I enjoyed it more.  Given the story, it isn't surprising that there is some graphic imagery, which I would recommend only for older readers.  Also, the book has a religious focus in it.  All in all, I would recommend it for older readers.

AUDIENCE:  Adult, Young Adult

RATING:  PG13 for graphic imagery

STARS:  2 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Dear John, The Lucky One

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

SYNOPSIS:  Nick Carraway is caught in the middle of a dramatic love triangle.  His cousin Daisy is married to Tom Buchanan, who is also in a relationship with a married woman.  When Daisy's pasts lover, Jay Gatsby meets Nick and asks him to arrange a meeting between Daisy and him, things really begin to get dramatic.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I had read this as a teenager, but had basically forgotten everything about the story.  Frankly, as an adult, I had a hard time with it.  I recognize that it is a classic, and has something to teach, as well as a tragic story to tell.  However, I didn't enjoy reading it for leisure.  There is also quite a bit of content, as could be inferred from the plot summary, including sensuality and unfaithful marriage relationships, alcohol use, and graphic violence.

AUDIENCE:  Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Violence, Sensuality, and Adult Material

STARS:  1

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Odyssey, Great Expectations

Illuminate by Aimee Agresti

SYNOPSIS:  Haven has never felt like she really belongs anywhere.  So when she receives an exclusive internship opportunity with a rising businesswoman, she happily accepts.  However, she soon realizes that everything is not as straightforward as it would appear when strange rituals begin to come to light.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I had a really hard time getting into this novel.  It moved very slowly, and I had trouble keeping interested.  As the story began to move along, I was even less interested in both the story line and the plot.  Frankly, I wouldn't really recommend it.  As far as content goes, there is some disturbing imagery, as well as some mild sensuality and some dark, demonic plot twists.  There is also some allusion to homosexuality, as well as a homosexual character.

RATING:  PG13 for disturbing imagery and Violence

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult

STARS:  1 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Fallen, City of Bones

Among the Hidden Series by Margaret Peterson Haddix

SYNOPSIS:  Luke is a Third Child, in a time when having more than two children is illegal.  The government controls everything, even the decision to plant food or have a large family.  Somehow, Luke was born despite the government's control, and his parents, farmers, decide to keep him.  As a result, Luke isn't allowed to leave the farm, and must hide to prevent being taken away.  However, when he discovers another Third Child living nearby, he realizes life doesn't have to be that way, and begins pushing his boundaries.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This series was somewhat depressing.  It was thought-provoking and interesting to think about, but still depressing.  If you like upbeat stories, this is probably not the one for you. Also, there were some adult topics discussed, as well as some violence that might disturb younger readers.  I would reserve it for mature readers.

AUDIENCE:  Teens and Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Violence and Adult Topics

STARS:  2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The City of Ember, Dave at Night

The Runaway King and The Shadow Throne by Jennifer A. Nielsen

SYNOPSIS:  Jaron's story continues in the sequel to The False Prince.  In this book, Jaron finds himself required to choose between two difficult options:  let himself be taken prisoner, or let his kingdom suffer the consequences.  As usual, his wit and cunning are more than a match for his enemies.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I enjoyed this book, just like the first in the series.  There is plenty of action and adventure, with unexpected plot twists and surprising plans on the part of the main character.  In addition, the book includes pirates, sword fights, and damsels in distress, so I imagine it would be popular with boys.  (I think I have mentioned that I probably don't include enough books for that particular audience.)  There is some violence, so I would reserve it for older readers, but I would definitely recommend it as a fun and entertaining read.

AUDIENCE:  Teens and Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Violence

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Dave at Night, Holes

SYNOPSIS:  Jaron's adventures conclude in the last book of the series as war descends on Carthya from all sides.  Things look hopeless as one by one, Jaron's closest friends and associates are captured.  Jaron, however, is up to his old tricks, and will do everything in his power to save his kingdom.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I love this series as a pure and simple adventure story.  I will say, however, that as the books went on, Jaron's capers became a bit more unbelievable, and his tight escapes seemed a little more far-fetched.  However, I would definitely recommend this to any adventure story lovers, especially those who like reading books starring a male protagonist.

AUDIENCE:  Teens and Young Adults

RATING:   PG13 for Violence and Disturbing Topics.

STARS: 3

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The False Princess, Legend