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124 pp.
| Orca
| April, 2012
|
LibraryISBN 978-1-4598-0104-2$16.95
|
PaperISBN 978-1-4598-0103-5$9.95
(4)
YA
Orca Currents series.
Angus tells Ella, his crush, that he is studying to be a crime-solving mentalist. So, when someone steals Ella's sketchbook, she comes to him for help; he buys some spy gear and begins observing their classmates. The story starts off smack in the middle of the action, but fast-paced plotting and good amounts of tension and comedy will retain interest.
(4)
YA
Orca Currents series.
Geocaching becomes a metaphor for finding one's way in this slight but entertaining novel. Zack and his single mom move too often for him to make friends. When he takes up geocaching, Zack--who has sound-color synesthesia--finds more than just a box of "swag." The themes and morals are a little too obvious, but Zack's story is engaging nonetheless.
105 pp.
| Orca
| April, 2009
|
TradeISBN 978-1-55469-103-6$16.95
|
PaperISBN 978-1-55469-102-9$9.95
(4)
4-6
Orca Currents series.
After being framed for cheating by mean-girl Rachel, Lizzie vows to get even. She's helped along by a little "magick" gleaned from her new neighbor. However, Lizzie soon learns that magic--like revenge--has a tendency to backfire. A lightweight plot that focuses heavily on dermatological mishaps is wrapped up with a neat moral in this book that may engage reluctant readers.
(4)
YA
Orca Soundings series.
After a workplace accident, Abby is partially paralyzed. At first, her anger and grief lead to self-destructive behavior, including drug use. A sustaining relationship with a therapy horse at the rehab center, however, opens her to new possibilities. Though it offers little depth, the story nonetheless provides an authentic, emotionally charged look at one young woman's healing.
(4)
4-6
Orca Currents series.
After seeing a ghost, Safira and her friend Trinity try to discover its identity. Research and a Ouija board point to someone who died long ago. However, Safira suspects the specter may be her living sister's shade (or spirit) warning her of a mistake she is about to make. Short, suspenseful chapters may help readers overlook the plot's gaps.
(3)
YA
Orca Currents series.
Sam's grandfather hasn't been in contact with Sam since his father's death ten years ago. When Sam receives a mysterious letter, he's surprised to find himself on a scavenger hunt for his grandfather's most prized possessions. Written for reluctant readers, this text tackles such heavy topics as forgiveness and death while using accessible, age-appropriate vocabulary.
(4)
YA
Orca Currents series.
When Goth chick Sable and girlie Lacey are partnered for an art project, Sable is peeved, especially since the project requires their getting to really know each other. Geared for reluctant teen readers, the text is certainly accessible and teens may relate to the girls' prickly encounters; however, some might find the quick bloom of Sable and Lacey's friendship unrealistic.