Vanished by Meg Cabot

Vanished is put in the YF section in the library for a reason. It is written strongly toward teens, which isn't a bad thing! I really liked this series. It was very witty and it easily kept me interested. It is about a high schooler named Jessica Mastriani. Jessica is trying to keep out of trouble, but trouble seems to find her. Especially on one stormy day when Jessica is struck by lightning, literally. Afterward, Jessica has the ability to find missing children, just by seeing their picture. Soon, Jessica is getting more attention then she wants for her newfound skill. Can she figure out how to get herself out of this mess?
I could easily relate to some of Jessica's problems, and I loved the book every step of the way. Move over Superman, Jessica Mastriani is taking the stage with her superhuman power. This was so creative and I love Meg Cabot style of writing. These books aren't something to miss out on! -J.E.

The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor

I loved this brand new, inventive take on Alice in Wonderland. It's changed my whole view on the classic story. It is one that I will share with my kids as they get older. The Looking Glass Wars is about Alyss, the next Wonderland queen. Her world is turned upside down when her murderous aunt Redd tries to take the throne, literally. To escape her evil clutches, Alyss and her faithful bodyguard Hatter Madigan tumble into our world, a strange and cruel place to two foreigners. Alyss must find her way home and take back her throne from Redd.

This story is skillfully written and full of twists. Frank Beddor made The Looking Glass Wars similar enough to Alice in Wonderland that I had fun making the connections, but it was a whole new story. Many times the story pleasantly surprised me and kept me hungry for more. I couldn't wait for the second book, Seeing Redd, and when I read it, I wasn't disappointed. I would recommend this book with flying colors. -J.E.