Manic: A Memoir, by Terri Cheney

"I think this book was simply amazing. Terri puts the reader smack dab in the middle of her head. The graphic descriptions of mania to hypo-mania to depression, and sometimes in reverse, lets the reader feel her emotions and even hear her thoughts. As a manic-depressive I felt a connection with Terri. I think everyone can. (It was) one of the best books I've ever read." Reviewed by Rebekah, Northeast Guilford High

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, by J. K. Rowling

"Harry Potter #7 is the best book I've ever read in my entire life. My favorite part was the Epilogue." Reviewed by Hai, loyal Harry Potter fan!

We can't think of anyone else who has sustained such an intricate, endlessly inventive plot over seven thick volumes and so constantly surprised us with twists, well-laid traps and Purloined Letter-style tricks. Hallows continues the tradition, both with sly feats of legerdemain and with several altogether new, unexpected elements. Perhaps some of the surprises in Hallows don't have quite the punch as those of earlier books, but that may be because of the thoroughness and consistency with which Rowling has created her magical universe, and because we've so raptly absorbed its rules. ~ Publishers Weekly

The Princess and the Pauper, by Kate Brian

"It was very interesting. It would have deserved more stars (I give it four out of five) if Ingrid, Carina, and most of the people they hung around with didn't smoke; and if she didn't meet Ribbit and hang out with him while he was drunk." Reviewed by Jordan, Hemphill Teen Reader!

A light story generously peppered with modern-day references to movie stars, musical styles, and teenage slang, this novel is perfect for fans of Meg Cabot's "Princess Diaries" series ~ School Library Journal

I am Rembrandt's Daughter, by Lynn Cullen

"This book really gives insight into the true meaning of love. It's based on real historical figures such as Rembrandt and his daughter, and though some parts are sad, the end is like a happy new beginning. It's full of interesting twists and turns. Reviewed by Hannah, a Hemphill Branch teen reader!

Cullen's novel is noteworthy for its emotional depth and sensitive development of characters. Readers will learn about Rembrandt and his art--his radical painting style, his belief that God directed his brush. Around these facts, Cullen creates a powerful family drama, fleshing out father and daughter into whole, heartbreaking individuals whose inner lives are glimpsed with acute sensitivity. ~ Booklist Magazine

Kindgom's Hope, by Chuck Black

"This book is part of a series that uses a medieval background to paint the events of the Old Testament. It's exciting, thrilling and romantic. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. Reviewed by Hannah, Hemphill Branch teen reader!

Sorry, but we don't have this series in the library yet. It sounds great!

Girl in Blue, by Ann Rinaldi

"I really enjoyed the Civil War setting, and it was interesting following Sarah's journey from impersonating a soldier to becoming a spy. But I didn't like how the book ended - it left loose ends and wasn't very satisfying." Reviewed by Hannah, Hemphill Branch Teen Reader!

"Inspired by the war fever of 1861, and tired of her father's mistreatment, 15-year-old Sarah Wheelock determines to run away and join the Union forces to fight the Confederacy. The last straw comes when her father promises her hand in marriage to a man who is twice her age and has the manners of a bear. After she cuts her hair, changes clothes, and lowers her voice, Sarah has few problems passing as a boy: years of hard farm labor have toughened her physically, and she has a natural talent for impersonation. . . . While Sarah and the other characters lack depth, Rinaldi's novel offers an exciting plot based on solid historical research." School Library Journal

Hound of Rowan: Book One of the Tapestry, by Henry H. Neff

"This book is the first in a fantasy series. I was completely absorbed in it; it was exciting and captivating. The book had a happy ending, but it leaves off for the next book. I can't wait until it's published!" Reviewed by Hannah, Hemphill Branch Teen Reader!

"In a hidden alcove within Chicago's Art Institute, Max McDaniels discovers a faded tapestry. As he watches, the tapestry begins to glow; soon after, he receives an invitation to attend a private boarding school in New England. He arrives at Rowan Academy, where young people with Potential are trained to fight an unnamed enemy . . . This novel's sprawling, quirky boarding school has obvious parallels to Hogwarts, but Neff's storytelling boasts charms of its own." Booklist Magazine