Project ELE by Rebecca Gober and Courtney Nuckels

[Project ELE] by [Rebecca Gober and Courtney Nuckels] is one of those books I wish I had a paper copy of because my students would enjoy it and it is classroom friendly. The earth has become a deadly place to be and to save the population the government has built shelters to protect people. Not every one gets in though and some families are separated. This is a fast paced story that has many twists and turns. I hope to read more in this series. Just add them to my queue.

Breathe by Sarah Crossan

[Breathe] by [Sarah Crossan] was a dystopian novel where the government manipulated people to remain in power. The earth's atmosphere has been depleted so badly that the air can not sustain life. Or, that is what people believe. [Crossan] creates a world full of lies and intrigue but characters that are heroic and keep you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will happen.

One Year After by William R. Forstchen

[One Second After] was one of those books that the cover made me want to buy. I was not disappointed. So when I was in the book store and saw [One Year After] you know I had to buy it even though I have an unusually long queue of books to read. [William R. Forstchen] writes a compelling novel that makes me want to prep for disaster. The way humanity can either come together or tear each other apart is sadly something I feel is true to human nature.

The Way We Fall by Megan Crewe

This was a very well written book. I loved how the story was told in a series of letters written to her friend who had moved away. The relationships that develop are great. I am looking forward to reading the next book.

The Least (Zombie Ocean Book 3) by Michael John Grist

This is the third installment in the [Zombie Ocean Series] if you have not read the first two you are missing out! [Michael John Grist] is a master of the character driven story. [The Least] tells of the event from the perspective of Robert aka Cerulean. It also give you background to Robert just as [The Lost] gave the background of Anna and [The Last] was the story of Amo. You really have to read them all! Even if zombie books aren't your thing. This is a new twist on zombies and more of a tale of humanity.

Check out Amazon for deals on the first two books! This book is released today(Dec. 23). What are you waiting for, get reading!

Fray(The Ruin Saga Book 3) by Harry Manners

[Harry Manners] remains one of my favorite authors. [Fray] is the third installment in [The Ruin Saga] and picked up just where [Brink] left off. As Norman and his crew follow Billy to stop the world from ending completely.

[Manners] really knows how to tell a story as well as weave in and out of the past and present without losing the audience. This is a skill not all authors can say they possess. If you have not experienced any of the books this man has written and like adventure on a cerebral level what are you waiting for?

The Boys of Winter by Wayne Coffey

[The Boys of Winter] by [Wayne Coffey] tells of one of the greatest sporting events ever (I will not say THE greatest since the US Women's Soccer team did pretty well this year.) For those of you who think you know everything there is to know about the 1980 Gold Medal 'Miracle' team, trust me you don't and should read this book.

[Coffey] does a great job in telling what made the players and coach tick. The unknown backstory. The flips in the story from telling of the players history or interviews interspersed with telling of the game works very well in this book.

The Last Orphans by N.W. Harris

[The Last Orphans] by [N.W. Harris] was a quick read in my favorite genre of post-apocalyptic novels. The way people survive always gives me hope for society. When all the adults die is sudden and horrible ways Tyler finds himself taking care of the survivors. Can he save them before it is too late.

Until We End by Frankie Brown

[Until We End] is a post-apocalyptic novel that takes a sinister twist. As people all over the world die from a strange disease Cora and Coby hide at home as their dad told them. They believe they may be the only ones left but they were wrong.

[Frankie Brown] adds to the ever popular genre of YA post-apocalyptic fiction. Unlike others I feel you can never have too much of a good thing and this genre has always been a favorite. Keep them coming.

The Journal: Cracked Earth by Deborah D. Moore

[The Journal: Cracked Earth] by [Deborah D. Moore] is told from the perspective of a prepper who can handle herself and her own but needs to teach others to take care of themselves when a disaster strikes. Allexa is the type of character that is enjoyable to read about. She is real and has flaws but also an inner strength that may save not only herself but those around her. Although this book is from the point of view of a prepper it has no political affiliation and was just an enjoyable read.

Lazarus Code: A First Families Saga by Sharon Van Orman

The [Lazarus Code] by [Sharon Van Orman] is a futuristic take on zombies. She combines the typical zombie apocalypse with space travel and nanobots. The main character is a female which is always enjoyable having seen way too many princesses. If you are a fan of any of the above mentioned genres or action adventure this book is a must read.

1914 by James Farner

When war comes what are young boys to do? Well join up to fight and be home by Christmas, of course! That was what they were told when they lied about their age to join up and escape their small Yorkshire town. Just war isn't all glory and people really do die.

In [1914] [James Farner] does an incredible job of telling the story from the perspective of the young men at the time. The story just flowed as you shared the experiences with the Keeton boys.

Outage by Ellisa Barr

Do you know what an EMP is or what it could do to our world? Neither did Dee until it happened. Lucky for her she had been dumped at her grandfathers farm so her parent could go on vacation. This is a great beginning book to an interesting premise of survival and adaptation. It was highly enjoyable and if you don't at least start stocking up on canned goods when you read it you are tougher than me.

Wildfire:A Novel by Mary Pauline Lowry

[Wildfire] is a story of a young woman trying to escape her past and what is expected of her and finding where she belongs. It is a true coming of age novel of love, loss and discovery. [Mary Pauline Lowry] catches the true feeling of rebellion of the main character Julie as she tries to overcome the pain of her past with the Pikers, a hot shot crew, forest fire fighters who often hike or fly into the heart of fires all through fire season. This book kept me reading and was finished off in a day. It was a very well told story.

The Young World by Chris Weitz

[The Young World} by [Chris Weitz] is a well written post apocalyptic story with a twist. All adults are die in a plague leaving the young to survive for themselves it becomes very much like [Lord of the Flies]. Also as the young people become a certain age they contract the plague that killed the adults. When they find that this plague was man made they fight to find the cure and save their friends and themselves.

This book was enjoyable and a quick read. It fits very well in a very popular YA genre.

Zombies Y'All by J.K. Bovi

I was excited to get this book as to review from LibraryThing since I now reside in Savannah. I wasn't disappointed. The description of the city locations were spot on and the students described the type you can find all over Savannah due to the local art college.

The story was a different take on zombies, which in this zombie infested market is hard to accomplish. The zombies are ghost zombies destroying one of Savannah's most well known attractions, it's ghosts.

The characters remind me of Carl Hiaasen's. The smart, the goofy and the clueless. All unique and entertaining. This is a very character driven novel.

My only complaint was the use of the Asian stereo type when the characters had a conversation. I did not feel this was necessary. Although, over all I would recommend this book.

Dead Chest Island by J.J. Parsons

I had the pleasure of meeting [J.J. Parsons] at the Savannah Children's Book Festival. I told her I had picked up her book [Dead Chest Island] at a local book seller. She kindly gave me the second book. That said, this is an unsolicited and honest review.

[Dead Chest Island] is a throw back to the mysteries of the 1950's. It made me think of The Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew. Young children getting into adventure after hearing a story about an island that leads to solving a international crime, or foiling it, rather.

[Parson's] writing has a good flow and is well thought out. The characters are well developed. I am looking forward to reading the second book and hearing more of Edison'd adventures and see if his sister is still a pest.

The Land: A Stranded Novel by Theresa Shaver

[Theresa Shaver] tells a story of survival and how when the world collapses people can either rise up and do the right thing or become evil. [The Land] starts with teenager at Disneyland when an EMP hits and disables all technology. Luckily the students have a teacher who encourages them to get home although she must stay with those who won't leave. Home is Canada. The small group divides to those who choose to go by sea and those by land. This follow the trek aver the mountains and through an increasing panicking population to get home. 

The plot was fast paced and well written and the characters were a mix of those you liked and those you wish would be eaten by a bear. In other words it was well balanced.

The Last Survivors by T.W. Piperbrook and Bobby Adair

The post apocalyptic novel [The Last Survivors] by [T.W.Piperbrook and Bobby Adair] was a good mix of many common themes. It was well written and very character driven. The story was well developed although slightly predictable but in such a wide genre they did a great job of mixing things up to add some new twists.

The Wasteland Chronicles: Omnibus Edition Books 1-3 by Kyle West

This book has been in my queue for awhile but the wait was worth it. The edition I read was and omnibus of books 1-3. [Kyle West] has created a terrifying view of the future in [The Wasteland Chronicles]. The idea of not being able to escape fate seems to be a main theme in this entertaining, fast past post apocalyptic series.

The Annihilation of Foreverland by Tony Bertauski

[The Annihilation of Foreverland] by [Tony Bertauski] is a wild ride with lots of plot twists and action. The premise of using a technology to tap into others minds and youth has been explored before but this was a new and creative take on it. It was almost like a modern [Lord of the Flies] with a tech twist.

Frost: A Ruin Novella by Harry Manners

Again another winner by [Harry Manners]. In [Frost] [Manner's] gives the backstory for the [Ruin Saga] and one of the main characters. It is fast paced and well written as all of [Manners] works and I highly recommend anything he writes.

Close to Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916 by Michael Capuzzo

Having grown up on the Jersey Shore and being a history nerd I was surprised I had never heard of these event before. That was why when I got the chance to read [Michael Capuzzo's] [Close to Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916] I was so excited. I really enjoyed the description of places I knew from growing up but described in their heyday as opposed to the dilapidated ruins I remember seeing. 

[Capuzzo] describes a Jersey Shore of elegance and enjoyment. When it was a status symbol to escape the cities. 1916 was a time of great turmoil with health crisis and a potential war in Europe so people flocked to the shore to escape all this but another danger lurked just off shore.

I know others who have read this book and wish they had introduced me to it sooner because it was an enjoyable, interesting and enlightening read of history and nature.

The Chosen of Anthros by Travis Simmons

[Travis Simmons] continues the quest in the [The Harbringers of Light Series, Volume 2]. In [The Chosen of Anthros] Abigail, Leona and Rorick finally arrive in New Landanten. They are excited to begin their proper training and to finally be safe. Unfortunately they are soon to find out no where is safe and war is coming.

This is a very interesting series that mixes myths with fiction to create a new world. The writing style of [Simmons] has a great amount of description so he transports you to this new world. A well done fantasy.

Soft Apocalypse by Will McIntosh

Genre: Post Apocalyptic

This was the second time I have read [Soft Apocalypse] by [Will McIntosh]. It was as good the second time. Now I usually do not read books twice because there are way too many books I want to read but since this is set in Savannah where I moved in July I figured I would read it again.

The idea that society collapses due to economics is not too far fetched. The eco terrorism may be a little harder to buy but still well within the realm of possibility. The message that as human we have good and bad but really never give up is a prevalent theme in this story. I recommend it to anyone looking for a thought provoking read.

Lowcountry Hurricanes by Walter Fraser, Jr.

Genre:Non-Fiction

Reading this book was like reading a shopping list. Except a shopping list may be more interesting. This book had lots of information but no narrative aspect. I think the author bit off more than he could chew covering such a large span of time.

The Lost: A Zombie Apocalypse Thriller(Zombie Ocean Book 2) by Michael John Grist

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.

GENRE: Post Apocalyptic, Zombie, Coming of Age

[Michael John Grist] continues exploring the [Zombie Ocean] with the second book [The Lost]. Where the first book [The Last] left off with survivors finding each other, including a strange little girl in an Alice in Wonderland dress, is where [The Lost] picks up. This installment is from the point of view of that little girl, Anna.

[Grist] has created a different sort of coming of age novel just as he reinvented the zombie genre in [The Last]. The journey Anna goes on is one of discovery and fighting demons but not in the traditional sense. The truth becomes clearer what happened to the world and why the zombies were compelled to all go the same direction.

As with the first book [Grist] leaves you feeling hopeful and wanting more.

Beyond The Sapphire Gate by R.V. Johnson

GENRE: Fantasy, Action-Adventure

[Beyond the Sapphire Gate] by [R.V. Johnson] is a fast paced fantasy adventure. It was a well written, character driven ride. [Johnson] does a great job developing in depth characters that keep you wanting to know what will happen to them next. I look forward to continuing the journey with these characters.

Bonded: The ShadowLight Saga by Mande Matthews

GENRE: Fantasy

[Bonded: Book One of the ShadowLight Saga] by [Mande Matthews] was an fantasy novel with a Nordic twist. [Matthews] intertwines the stories of Nordic gods with the imagination of the author. She used them as a jumping off point to not only create a good story but also, perhaps, generate interest in learning more about the tales of these gods.

Disasters:Natural and Man-made Catastrophes Through the Centuries by Brenda Z. Guiberson

GENRE: Non-Fiction

This is the book I always wanted to write but lack the talent. I am glad [Brenda Z. Guiberson] wrote it so I can share it with my students. I have a fascination with disasters and have since I was young. Unfortunately most of the books about them is not written for a middle school reader. I have had some of the books [Guiberson] used to research on my class shelves for years with few takers. This is just the type of book needed to get them reading non fiction and enjoy it.

The Survivalist: Frontier Justice by Dr. Arthur T. Bradley

GENRE: Post apocalyptic, survival

[Frontier Justice] is the first book in [The Survivalist Series] by [Dr. Arthur T. Bradley]. It was a basic post apocalyptic survival story with some political intrigue involved. [Bradley] did a good job relating a conspiracy without blaming any current political side. Often books in this genre get very political or religious. This one did not become overtly so, which makes it more widely readable.

Hater by David Moody

GENRE: Horror, Suspense, Thriller

[Hater] by [David Moody] was recommended to me by my spouse. Since we have greatly different taste in books I put off reading it. Plus the bloody cover was off putting to be honest. Even though I read end of the world and zombie books graphic violence is usually not my thing but that was not what this book was like at all. Instead it was almost a psychological thriller that left the reader as well as the main character wondering who really were the good and bad guys.

Last Man Out:The Story of the Springhill Mine Disaster by Melissa Fay Greene

GENRE:  Nonfiction, History
This is a compelling story of miners who were trapped underground. In [Last Man Out] [Melissa Fay Greene] does an excellent job of capturing the emotions of those trapped as well as the families above ground. She also connects the political and economic climate of the time by telling the story of how these Canadian miners ended up connected to Georgia's fight for tourist dollars and caught experiencing segregation first hand. This is an emotional and well told story on many levels.

Wyso and the Other Creepy Kids on Gerard Street by Clara Bush

GENRE: Science Fiction, Coming of Age, Serial

[Wyso and the Other Creepy Kids on Gerard Street] by [Clara Bush] starts out really strangely with a language that is not recognizable. Do not let this deter you from reading on because it will all come together later. Also this book is not exactly what it may seem to be even as you read it.

The story is character driven with the main character being Wyso, a young girl whose parents are not capable of caring for her. Throughout the story we get to see her grow up with the help of the boys in her neighborhood who take care of her.

They all meet in their Alien Hunter clubhouse even as they get older. All of the children are a little odd but they are also normal kids growing up and falling in love. The supernatural twists that this book takes will not disappoint readers but also does not overtake the plot from the fabulous characters.

The Big Burn by Jeanette Ingold

GENRE:  Historical Fiction, YA

[The Big Burn] by [Jeanette Ingold] is an excellently written historical fiction that deals with an interesting topic. The plot is focused around three young people: Elizabeth, a homesteader with her sister, Jarret, a fire fighter, and Seth, and African American soldier. The even that brings them all together is the forest fires of 1910 in Idaho and Montana know as the Big Burn.

[Ingold] tells a fast moving tale through the various perspectives of those involved. The fact that she chose very different characters but remained historically accurate says a lot about the skill of the author. This book is a welcome addition to any classroom library, especially for those reluctant readers.

First Plane Home by Jon Tait

GENRE:  Literary fiction

Everyone has events that they can use to track life's milestones. In his novel [First Plane Home] [Jon Tait] tells the life of Andy through Scotland's World Cup chances. This well written novel shows what growing up in a country going through some changes is like. The hope of young Andy becomes the cynicism of a teenager and all throughout there is Scotland's football team and their never give up attitude.

The Survivor Chronicles: Book 1, The Upheaval by Erica Stevens

GENRE: Apocalyptic, Survival, Action/Adventure

[The Survivor Chronicles: Book 1, The Upheaval] was an entertaining, well paced story. [Erica Stevens] did an excellent job of creating a character driven plot although at times it was too predictable.There are so many end of the world novels out there that it is hard to make a new one stand out. Also this first book lacked explanation for some of the events, particularly with the animals. Having some sort of character that could explain a little more may have made it more cohesive. Perhaps that will happen in the second book.

The Body Electric by Beth Revis

Genre: Science Fiction, YA

[Beth Revis] does it again with [The Body Electric]. In this futuristic world things are not always what they may seem. Ella is miserable due to the death of her father and the impending death of her mother. She just wants to be happy and make her mother happy. Unfortunately there are dark secrets hidden that will turn her world upside down.

If you have been wise enough to read the [Across the Universe] trilogy (and if you haven't you should, NOW) you will recognize the wonderful writing style and storytelling as well as references to Godspeed. [Revis] imagines a dark yet hopeful future. She does a magnificent job of showing both the good and evil of the human spirit.

After The End by Amy Plum

Genre: Action/Adventure, YA, Coming of Age

http://www.amazon.com/After-End-Amy-Plum/

[After The End] by [Amy Plum] has a deceptive title because it leads you to think it is an dystopian novel. Although I love those books this was a welcomed surprise. It turned into more of an action/adventure with a little coming of age thrown in for good measure.

[Plum] did an excellent job of developing a creative, fearless, intelligent character in Juneau. Although she is naive due to lack of exposure she know how to survive. Her loyalty to family, even though they hurt her, is endearing.

Miles, on the other hand, is a spoiled rotten brat who has had the easy life. He starts out for his own gain but what he really gains is a new insight about life and love.

This story has some supernatural aspects but over all is more of an exciting journey of discovery for two young people who have a lot to learn from each other.

Shots On The Bridge by Ronnie Greene

Genre: Non-Fiction

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Shots On The Bridge] by [Ronnie Greene] is a good piece of investigative journalism about one of the most notorious events in post-Katrina New Orleans.

As most people I was glued to my TV all throughout Katrina and I remember the news reports of a shoot out on a bridge involving police. As I recall the news reported that it was gangsters and looter shooting at the police. There were many reports of this nature in the confusion following one of the worst disasters in U.S. history. We now know that most of these reports were embellished at best or just down right lies.

[Ronnie Greene] did an excellent job relating the events as they occurred and giving a voice to the victims. The fact that these families were just trying to cross a bridge and came under fire by an overly armed unit of police is disconcerting enough but the fact that the police conspired to cover it up makes it even worse. Although it was wrong I could understand the officers reaction to the call of shots fired given the trauma that they had also been through. It is the cover up and lies that compound the wrongfulness of their actions.

I though [Greene] did a good job but he seems to jump around a bit too much. There is a lack of fluid transitions. Also, I feel his view was very one sided. I know that the police did something horrible but they were victims of Katrina as well and probably should not have been on duty at that point. If the correct relief and support had been provided this whole situation may have been avoided.

Free Falling (The Irish End Game Series #1) by Susan Kiernan-Lewis

[Free Falling] is the first installment in [The Irish End Games Series] by [Susan Kiernan-Lewis]. Imagine being on a nice over seas vacation when the world ends. That is where this story begins.

The idea of survival and learning to live without modern technology is a major theme in this book. Also learning to appreciate the people who have your back. The characters in this story are not the deepest but they will elicit strong feelings from the reader. I enjoyed the book enough to buy the next two.

The Testing by Joelle Carbonneau

Fans of the [Hunger Games] will enjoy [The Testing] by [Joelle Carbonneau]. The characters are of similar ilk and drive the plot. The hidden twists within the plot keep it going at a good pace. It comes down to the idea "be careful what you wish for you may just get it."

Beyond the Fortune Teller's Tent by Kristy Tate

[Beyond the Fortuneteller's Tent] by [Kristy Tate] was a great twist on YA romance. It involves time travel and finding your true love. The adventures and twists make this story different than your typical YA paranormal romance (a genre too filled with vampires). 

I compared it to the [Outlander] series but PG because I would be disturbed to see my students reading [Galbadon] but would gladly recommend the [Beyond] books.

Safe Haven (Life After War: Book 3) by Angela White

In the third books of the [Life After War] series we learn more about Adrian's creation [Safe Haven]. They are beginning to prepare for a fight with the Mexican slavers but they have to deal with internal conflicts as well caused by Kenn's controlling nature. 

The characters continue to drive the story and the way they interact keeps the plot interesting. I am looking forward to reading book 4, [Adrian's Eagles].

On The Road (Life After War: Book 2) by Angela White

[Angela White] continues her [Life After War] series with [On The Road]. The wonderful characters she introduced us to in [The Survivors] are now traveling to find their fate. Angela is determined to reach Charlie, her son, but fears the confrontation with Kenn. Marc and Dog will do anything to protect her. The stories are all about to come together in a wonderfully thrilling twist.

The Survivors: Book 1 (Life After War) by Angela White

What would you do if your government started a nuclear war that destroyed all you knew? The characters in [Angela White's] first book in the [Life After War] series just try to survive.

In [The Survivors] we are introduced to characters who will immediately draw you in. Some you cheer for, some you wish would get eaten by wild animals. This is a very character driven story and [White] creates some personalities that keep you wanting to know more.

The Game (The Game is Life Book 1) by Terry Schott

[Terry Schott] did an excellent job in making you think about the deeper meaning of things with [The Game]. At first I thought it was like so many other futuristic novels but there is an incredible twist. I will not be a spoiler so I will leave it at that.

It was a well written books with very creative ideas. The characters were good and easy to follow. The ending of the book left me wanting more.

Brink(The Ruin Saga #2) by Harry Manners

OUT NOW!!! Go to Amazon.com

I have read a few books by Harry Manners and have enjoyed them all but The Ruin Saga just leaves me wanting more. I would compare it to S.M. Stirling's Change books which are some of my favorite. Mr. Manners does such a good job with character development that you feel that you actually know these people an are invested in what happens to them. Brink continues the story that was left off in Ruin and is just as good if not better. My only gripe is that I have to wait for more.

Britain at War 1939 to 1945: What was life like during the war? by James Lingard

I received this book in exchange for an honest review. It took me awhile to get around to reading it because it was only available in PDF and I have a nook so it was itty bitty text.

[Britain at War 1939 to 1945: What was life like during the war?] by [James Lingard] starts out with personal account from him as a child during the war. This is well written and a very interesting perspective. The book continues to be well written and informative but loses that personal narrative as the author just begins relating the history of the war. It would have been better if he just focused on the narrative from the point of view of Britain rather than give a history lecture.

The Deadly Shipwrecks of the Powhattan and New Era on the Jersey Shore by Captain Robert F. Bennett, Susan Leigh Bennett, and Commander Timothy R. Dring

I was given this book by a high school friend who is related to the author. I love history and disasters so this book was right up my alley. It was well researched and written, as well as filled with information. As a non mariner some of the language was a bit over my head but I could follow it in context. I could almost put myself on the storm swept beaches with the rescuers, perhaps growing up on the Jersey Shore had something to do with that. Anyone who likes maritime history or history of the Jersey Shore should put this one on their list.