100 Cupboards by N.D. Wilson

SYNOPSIS:  Henry is staying with his aunt and uncle when he makes a mind-blowing discovery.  There are cupboards hidden behind the wall in their house!  What he finds in the cupboards makes his heart race with excitement and fear.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I had a really hard time getting interested in this story.  The idea of a room full of cupboards which lead to other places was a little hard for me to digest.  In addition, the story was dark and a little gruesome in parts, so I would recommend it to pre-teens and older.

AUDIENCE:  Pre-teens, Teens

RATING:  PG with violence and disturbing imagery

STARS:  1 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, The Secret Garden

Invisibility by Andrea Cremer and David Levithan

SYNOPSIS:  Stephen has never been seen by anyone.  So when the new girl in his apartment complex interacts with him, he's completely shocked.  As they get to know each other better, she becomes as intrigued by him as he is with her.  She knows that she will need to help break his curse.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This was an intriguing story.  The main character is likable, and even though the subject matter is quite unrealistic, it's told in a way to make it believable.  It was romantic, without too much sensuality, so I'd recommend it for teens and older.

AUDIENCE:  Teens and Young Adults

RATING:  PG13 for some sensuality and language

STARS:  3 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Ella Enchanted, Goose Girl