Searching for Dragons – Patricia Wrede

In this second book in the Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Cimorene’s fans are introduced to Mendanbar, King of the Enchanted Forest. Very much still a callow youth, he imposes his preference for the simple, active life on his new role as king, disappointing his steward, the elf Willin, who has anticipated a resumption of pomp and formality. The discovery of a patch in the Enchanted Forest laid waste by wizards starts him on a quest that soon leads him to Cimorene. The two join forces to find the missing Kazul, and begin a series of misadventures that include riding a defective magic carpet decorated with pink bears, melting several wizards with Cimorene’s infallible formula of soapy water and lemon juice, and advising a giant who is bored with pillaging to go into the consulting business.

I really like the characters that Patricia Wrede creates in this series.  Not only is Cimorene really strong as a princess, but she meets her match in the King, Mendanbar, and continues to deal with fun side characters like dragons, giants, and Rumplestiltskin’s family! Enjoy. – Jessica, Teen Librarian

Dealing with Dragons – Patricia Wrede

Cimorene, princess of Linderwall, is a classic tomboy heroine with classic tomboy strengths–all of which are perceived by those around her as defects: “As for the girl’s disposition–well, when people were being polite, they said she was strong-minded. When they were angry or annoyed with her, they said she was as stubborn as a pig.” Cimorene, tired of etiquette and embroidery, runs away from home and finds herself in a nest of dragons. Now, in Cimorene’s world, princesses are forever being captured by dragons. The difference here is that Cimorene goes willingly. She would rather keep house for the dragon Kazul than be bored in her parents’ castle. With her quick wit and her stubborn courage, Cimorene saves the mostly kind dragons from a wicked plot hatched by the local wizards, and worms her way into the hearts of some of the most powerful dragons in the kingdom.

This is a princess that I would like to meet!  Cimorene is not one of those simpering princesses that NEEDS to be rescued, she defines her own destiny…and she meets dragons.  Very cool.  – Jessica, Teen Librarian

Emako Blue – Brenda Woods

To Monterey, she was a best friend who helped her grow up; to Jamal, the only girl he cared about, and the one who saw through his “player” act; to Eddie, a kindred soul who understood the burdens of his family; and to Savannah, a rival who wouldn’t play by the rules.  But no matter what they felt about her, everyone knew that Emako Blue was special.

With her good heart, her amazingly beautiful voice, and a body to match, Emako seemed destined for greatness – at fifteen, she’d already been spotted by the record producers.  But on the streets of South Central Los Angeles, anything can change in a minute.

This is one of my favorite books.  Not only does the author capture how teens really talk, but she also makes references to things that teens know about – like BET and Busta Rhymes.  It is a really fast read – try it and I guarantee you’ll love it as much as I do!!  ~ Leila, Teen Clerk

My Scrumptious Scottish Dumplings: The Life of Angelica Cookson Potts

“Almost forgot, Cherub, I got something yesterday to cheer you up. Found it in the tartan workshop….” He hands me the parcel, out of which comes a WHOLE SCOTTISH OUTFIT! Kilt, white shirt, frilly collar thing, tartan sash, red sporran, and, to top it all, thick green wooly knee-length socks with GARTERS!

Horrors! Potty is dragging Angel out of school early so the family can make their annual trek to Scotland. Worse than the dreary Scottish weather and embarrassing kilts, Mercedes is moving to Florida at the end of the term — probably for good. Meanwhile, Potty is on the warpath, protesting that the haggis Harrods sells isn’t authentic. It’s just another of Potty’s crazy schemes until the whole family is banned from the store — and how can Angel cook without groceries? As if that weren’t enough, Angel can’t stop dreaming about Sydney…gross, disgusting Sydney. What is going on?

I can’t put this series down. These books just make my cheeks hurt from smiling so much!  Angel is hilarious and in this book her parents are an absolute scream!!!  Who thought haggis could be so funny?  For a quick and painless read…  – Jessica, Teen Librarian

My Saucy Stuffed Ravioli: The Life of Angelica Cookson Potts – Cherry Whytock

In this third installment in the series, Angel, her family, and her friends travel from England to Italy for a glorious vacation. As she watches her pals’ budding romances, Angel pines away for Sydney, who planted a kiss on her at the school fashion show. On a different note, her mother is acting particularly strange, and Angel worries that she’s having an affair. Not to worry, though–romance and happy endings are granted to all in this modern fairy tale.

This was a really cute book!  I worried a little while Angel was pining for Sydney, but am really pleased with how the author works out Angel’s love life.  The humor does not fail in this book either.  A good light, beachy read.  Enjoy!!  – Jessica, Teen Librarian