Book Review: Wildman

WILDMAN by J. C. Geiger tells the story of a life-changing road trip in the Pacific Northwest.

Lance’s life is under control until his car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. A series of weird choices set him on a five day adventure that blends reality with magical realism. From train hopping and late night parties to a quirky romance, Lance’s quiet life will never be the same.

Librarians will find this coming of age story appeals to fans of John Green. The author’s blend of hilarious situations with authentic emotional connections will appeal to fans of contemporary fiction.

Published on Disney-Hyperion, an imprint of Hachette Book Group on June 6, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Are We There Yet?

ARE WE THERE YET? by Dan Santat is an inventive picture book that explores the age old question “are we there yet?”.

When a young boy becomes bored on a long road trip to his grandmother’s birthday party, he imagines that time goes so slow that it begin flowing backwards. Along the way he sees pirates, knights, camels, and even dinosaurs. However, soon the story shifts to the future.

Careful readers will spot QR codes that can be read by electronic devices. These codes lead to secret messages. Young readers will also notice small things like the way the parent’s clothing changes and his dad’s beard grows as time flies. Children will also enjoy the play on the word “present” at the end of the story.

Librarians will find that the illustrator’s use of upside down pages will be a hit with children. Buy multiple copies of this book because it will fly off the shelves.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.dantat.com/

Published by Little Brown Books for Young Readers, an imprint go Hachette. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Kissing in America

KISSING IN AMERICA by Margo Rabb takes an honest look at family, friends, and the world of romance for young adults.

Eva has read 118 romance novels, but real life is much more complicated. After her boyfriend moves to California, she decides to make a cross-country trip to surprise him. This coming-of-age, road-trip adventure explores a wide range of issues from family grief to self-discovery… and a bit of romance.

Readers will easily overlook the silly premise and enjoy Eva’s quest. Rabb has an excellent handle on contemporary issues and teen humor making the happiness and heartbreak feel authentic.

This book is difficult to pigeonhole. Librarians need to keep in mind that despite the title, it’s not solely a romance. Much of the book deals with Eva’s ability to deal with the death of her father and frustrations with her mother. The novel also contains lots of literary connections that could be distracting for youth without a background in literature. However for young adults who enjoy realistic fiction, this book has it all.

To learn more about the author, go to http://margorabb.com/.

Published by HarperCollins, May 26, 2015