The Lake Effect by Erin McCahan

Briggs Henry has a rigid plan for his future--enjoy a summer job by the shores of Lake MIchigan and then college with no less than a six figure salary at the end. Money will be the end of all his troubles, and he is ready to put in the kind of work that requires. But Brigg’s summer throws him some curveballs. First, his eighty-four-year-old employer, Mrs. Bozic, wants him to spend the summer attending funerals and repainting her house. Also, there is Abigail, the girl next door who shows interest in him one minute and disappears the next.

Through the ups and downs of his summer, Briggs gains a new perspective on what really matters in life. I started this book with low expectations, but I grew to absolutely love the characters. I finished the book wanting to spend a summer by Lake Michigan and enjoy the wonderful people and atmosphere. I recommend The Lake Effect as perfect summer reading with humor and depth.

Recommended ages--14 and up

Lions and Liars by Kate Beasley

In the food-chain theory of life, Frederick Frederickson is a flea and he wants to be a lion. He longs to be the boy in fifth grade who kids want around. Instead, Frederick breaks his nose playing dodgeball and hovers at the edge of the least popular kids. Then, through a series of boating mistakes and misunderstandings, Frederick ends up at a disciplinary camp for boys. He struggles for position in a whole new group of kids. But when a Category Five hurricane heads their way, the boys will learn that survival is much more important than status.

Filled with humor and unique characters, Lions and Liars will speak to middle grade readers who have trouble fitting in. Frederick’s experiences will have them laughing, shaking their heads, and cheering. This is a fun story about finding your place in spite of the craziness of life. And the excellent illustrations by Dan Santat are an added bonus.

Recommended ages--9-12 years old

Vengeance Road by Erin Bowman

When her father is murdered for information about a long-lost gold mine, Kate Thompson can think of nothing but vengeance. She leaves her homestead intent on killing the gang that killed her father. Along the way, Kate finds some unwanted allies. But as her road becomes more dangerous and filled with corruption, Kate realizes it is hard to tell who is really on her side.

Vengeance Road has the feel of a typical western with a refreshingly atypical main character. Kate is a feisty, but vulnerable narrator with a strong voice to capture the reader’s attention. Her journey holds plenty of adventure, but surprising life lessons as well. A fun and fast-paced book for teen readers.

Recommended ages--12 and up