Atlantia
by Ally Condie
(grades 7-12)
Rio has always wanted to go Above, even though it meant leaving her mother
and her twin sister, Bay, forever. But then the unthinkable happens and
Mother dies, leaving Bay and Rio alone. Rio can't bear to leave her sister
and promises to stay with her in Atlantia, but then is hurt and bewildered
when Bay chooses to leave her instead. Why did Bay leave? What danger lurks
in Atlantia and Above? Was her mother murdered? Can she trust her Aunt Maire,
a powerful siren? Can she trust herself and the siren voice she has kept
hidden for years?
This is a beautiful story with a gorgeous setting, fascinating and
true-to-life characters, sweet romance, and twists and turns that will keep
you turning pages. My favorite thing about this book, though, is the
relationships between sisters, Rio and Bay, and their mother and aunt,
Oceana and Maire. Their deep love for each other is complex and real,
inspiring and heart-breaking.
This is a great pick for teens and adults who love to be swept away into
another world while still being able to relate to the feelings and choices
of the characters. If you enjoy this brand-new title by Ally Condie, try her
Matched trilogy, also available at the library!
Above World
by Jenn Reese
(grades 3 - 7)
Aluna loves the ocean and has lived there all of her thirteen years. Things
are changing, though, in the City of Shifting Tides, and the future of her
people is at stake. The Kampii's breathing necklaces are failing and they do
not have the technology to replace them. The elders are afraid to venture to
the surface to try and find answers. It is up to fearless Aluna and her
loyal friend Hoku to make this perilous journey and try to find allies Above
World. Will Aluna's warrior ways and Hoku's technical knowledge be enough to
keep them safe while finding the answers they need?
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This wonderful tale is the first in a trilogy set in a world where
overcrowding on the surface forced humans to find ways to survive in
hostile environments. A beautiful blend of mythology and science
with genetically-engineered merpeople, horse clans, winged women,
and more---this story captivates with adventure, humor and tragedy.
Children and young adults alike will love to read about Aluna and
Hoku and their friendships and adventures Above World. The entire
trilogy is available now at the library.
Secret Seahorse
by Stella Blackstone
(ages 2 and up)
Where is that silly seahorse? Children will love seeking for their
favorite sea-faring friend on each colorful two-page spread. The
underwater world comes alive with sea anemeones, crabs, starfish and
all kinds of fish living on the coral reef. In the felt and fabric
collages, sea creatures shine with sequins and pearls. Lush rhyming
language depicts the beauty under the sea and follows the hidden
seahorse through the book until he is found at home in a cave---with
his family, seahorses of all sizes. Preschoolers and school-age
children will love this look at life on a coral reef. Secret
Seahorse is available at the library in our board book section so
that even our littlest patrons can enjoy it!
[By
MELISSA OXBORROW,
Lincoln Public Library District]
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