The central character in this novel is a woman who runs a cake business in Rwanda and gives advice to a wide variety of customers. But the book is about so much more than that. It is a story about her courage to overcome her past and to help others to do the same, and about the healing power of food. ~ Alison

This busy season is a good time to read or reread this beautiful classic. The novel tells the story of an amazing pioneer woman whose strength and passion for life never die. Against all odds, she pursues her quest for happiness. This is a book to give you a peaceful, hopeful attitude toward life, just when you need it most. ~ Alison

Cerinthe Gale has always dreamed of being a dancer. It was her dying mother's wish that she follow her dream. Cerinthe is accepted into the School of Royal Dancers but finds that sometimes what we hope for is not what we really want. This is a wonderful novel that combines fantasy, dance, and a girl's search for her true destiny. Ages 10 and up. ~ Alison

I don't usually read science fiction, but this story is mesmerizing. It's not about aliens and space ships but real humans, good and bad. Matt, the main character, is the clone of a powerful drug lord, El Patron, in the futuristic country of Opium. In his life he is treated alternately as an animal, a boy, and a slave. And what a life! With its incredible suspense, amazing multi-layered plot and fascinating characters, this book surely deserved the National Book Award for Young Adults which it won this year. ~ Alison

In this novel by the author of The Thief Lord, Meggie and her father Mo have a special ability to bring characters in any book to life just by reading aloud. Nine years ago, reading a book titled Inkheart, Mo accidentally brought the evil Capricorn and his henchman Basta to life, with dire consequences. Now Meggie and Mo must find a way to overcome their villain. Meggie, a wonderful heroine, must use all her creativity to make sure her own story has a happy ending. This is an imaginative, thrilling fantasy about books and the power of reading and the power of love. I liked it even better than The Thief Lord ! ~ Alison

When Cox was 17 and on a morning training swim, she encountered a baby whale that had been separated from its mother. This beautiful book describes her magical and mystical experience uniting mother and baby. Great for readers of all ages.

Francis is back with one of my favorite characters, Sid Halley, who deals with race fixing, internet betting, and . . . murder.

This novel traces the life of Young Ju from the age of four in Korea to the time right before she leaves for college. When she first comes to America, she struggles to understand the language and fit in, while trying to be a "good Korean girl" at home. Young Ju gradually learns American customs and English, and, in an especially moving chapter, she helps her father deal with the Immigration Office, an experience embarrassing for both of them because he is so helpless and she is in control. As she grows in years and wisdom, Young Ju shows the same quiet strength as her mother, and they both defy Young Ju's father as he becomes an increasingly violent alcoholic. This is an amazing story with wonderful language that shows the growth of a young girl into a strong, independent woman. When I turned the last page, all I could say was "Wow." Ages 12 & up. ~ Alison

With a title like this, who can resist? This novel is the story of Moose and his family, who move to Alcatraz Island in 1935 so his father can work as an electrician and a guard. The famous gangster Al Capone also lives on Alcatraz. Moose, who misses playing baseball with his old friends, tries to fit into life on the island by making friends with Piper, the warden's daughter, who has all sorts of schemes, one of which is to collect laundry from fellow classmates and charge to have it cleaned by Al Capone and "other world-famous public enemies." All Moose really wants to do is try to stay out of trouble and protect his sister, Natalie, who is autistic?but that proves hard to do. A creative plot line, fast-paced story, and wonderful characters all add up to a great read. Ages 8-12.

I have always been fascinated with the legend of King Arthur and have read many books about the Knights of the Round Table. This book is the latest telling of the story-with a twist. It's the diary of a 13 year-old boy named Arthur who lives in the 12th century. His friend Merlin gives him a magical stone that shows him visions of the once and future King Arthur. The boy Arthur is an engaging, likeable narrator. Filled with wonderful descriptions of people and life in a medieval manor, this is the first book in a trilogy and I can't wait for the next! ~ Alison