Middlemarch by George Eliot

SYNOPSIS:  Dorothea knows what she wants.  Or at least she thinks she does.  However, when her marriage to the much-older Mr. Casaubon proves restrictive, she becomes unhappy.  However, through fate's fickle hand, she is given another, much different choice.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I think this is a good book for discovering more about history.  I also think the book has a thought-provoking message, and an interesting plot.  That being said, there was quite a bit of description and scene-setting that weighs down the story a bit.  Young readers, especially, would likely be bogged down by the language and text.  Also, there is some discussion of love outside of marriage, and some references to murder.  I would recommend it for older readers.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults and Adults

RATING:  PG for Mature topics

STARS:  3

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Jane Eyre, Little Women

Life After Theft

SYNOPSIS:  When Jeff's dad finally realizes his career goals, his family moves to California.  On his first day at a ritzy private school, Jeff sees a girl lying on the floor.  He is intrigued, then shocked when he realizes no one else can see her.  When she tells him she is a ghost, and that she must return the things she stole before she can move on to the afterlife, he feels compelled to help her.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I liked the storyline, and the writing style.  However, there were quite a few sexual references, some language, and some sensuality.  In the end, I think I'd recommend skipping this book, or at least reserve it for older readers.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Sensuality, Sexual References

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Heist Society, Numbers

The Opposite of Hallelujah by Anna Jarzab

SYNOPSIS:  Caro has never come to terms with her much-older sister leaving home to become a nun.  So when she returns home, she is anything but pleased.  She acts out, even lying to her friends about where her sister has been.  Eventually, however, she realizes she is only pushing those she cares about further away from herself.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I checked this book out based on the author, because I enjoyed Tandem.  However, the author was the only thing the two books shared.  This book was a coming-of-age novel, full of teen angst and shenanigans.  In addition, it had some pretty strong language and references, as well as underage drinking, and some brief sensuality.  I wouldn't even say the writing style was a redeeming quality.  I'd recommend skipping this book altogether.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Strong Language, References, and Underage Drinking

STARS:  1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Impossible Knife of Memory, Dreamland Social Club