Sixteen-year-old Valerie, whose boyfriend Nick committed a school shooting at the end of their junior year, struggles to cope with integrating herself back into high school life, unsure herself whether she was a hero or a villain.

The Hate List reminded me of classic Gail Giles. It is a compulsive read. It explores who and why do we hate so much. It is thought-provoking and a definite must read!

Half Brother by Ken Oppel

Check out the book review below by Mrs. Walker, English I teacher. She is an avid reader and always willing to encourage reading by sharing titles of good YA books. If you have read Ken Oppel's book, leave a comment and let us know how you liked it.

Last school year, I read the Airborn trilogy of books from this author. I love the way Oppel presents and develops his characters. This novel is of a very different subject matter from the Airborn novels. Here, the main character Ben has a life changing experience. His parents, who are both scientists, bring home a baby chimpanzee they name Zan to raise as a human child. The author depicts moral and scientific dilemmas faced by both Ben and his parents. I had a hard time putting this book down because I just couldn’t wait to find out what happens to Zan.

Tayshas 2011 Reading List Announced!! Titles available in the library for checkout

If you are looking for hot off the press titles that are fantastic reads, you need to stop by the FHS Library to take a look at the 2011 Tayshas High School Reading List titles. This year there are over 50 books on the list and definitely something for everyone, whether you like mystery/suspense, romance, sci-fi, fantasy, historical or humor. Just look for the display books with the blue cards and the bright red Tayshas 'T'.

The library now has use of iTouches. Ask for one of these to view Tayshas booktrailers by FHS Library Aides. You won't want to miss these.

Check the Teenspeak Blog in the next couple of days for the Tayshas booktrailer. It should be posted by mid-week and will feature most of the titles on the list.