Hold Me Closer, Necromancer by Lish McBride

As a lover of anything mocking the paranormal romance novel, this book won me over with just the title. Yes, it is an allusion to Elton John and the rock song puns and allusions continue with the titles of each chapter (not all Elton John, but equally clever). Lish McBride crafts an entertaining story of a seemingly normal boy thrown into the paranormal world. It has the expected werewolves and evil sorcerers, but humor keeps this book from becoming another fatality in an overdone genre. Sam's life is pretty typical of a college dropout, until an evil necromancer recognizes Sam's hidden power as a threat. Suddenly, Sam's regular life turns upside down. He has an undead friend, a werewolf girlfriend, and multiple threats to his life. Can Sam learn to use his own power to save the world? This light read is good for those who like fantasy, but don't need to take it too seriously. Recommended ages--12 and up

The Amazing Adventures of John Smith, Jr. aka Houdini by Peter Johnson

After an author comes to speak at his school, John Smith, Jr. (also known as Houdini) decides his life is perfect material for a Kid's Novel. Houdini writes about his best friends, their leaf-raking business, and their battle with the neighborhood bully. During these adventures, Houdini also struggles with his dad losing his job and his brother being reported as missing in action. With a nice balance of humor and depth, The Amazing Adventures of John Smith, Jr. provides a glimpse of teen struggles and the beginning steps to adulthood. Houdini and his friends are well-developed characters who will both teach and entertain tween readers. This is a great book for boys and girls who like to laugh and learn about life. Recommended ages--10 and up

The Storyspinner by Becky Wallace

Johanna has lived a simple life in the Performer’s camp building her skills as a storyspinner. When her father is killed in a performing accident, Johanna’s family is kicked out of the camp and forced to find a living on their own. Little does Johanna know that great danger is rushing toward the land and she is central to saving the people she loves. As Johanna learns more about her identity, she meets both friends and enemies, but she isn’t always sure which is which. This first book in a series creates a new world with interesting characters. The fast-paced tale is highly entertaining with a coming of age aspect that tween and teen readers can connect with even though it is set in a fantasy world. Be warned this story ends in a cliffhanger and while the second book is out, the series is not complete. I won’t read anymore until I know it is done.

Recommended ages--11 and up