YA Friday Book Review: The Winner's Crime

The Winner's Crime
By Marie Rutkoski (Farrar Straus Giroux, March 3, 2015)
IndieBound | WorldCat

Description from GoodReads:
"Book two of the dazzling Winner's Trilogy is a fight to the death as Kestrel risks betrayal of country for love.

The engagement of Lady Kestrel to Valoria’s crown prince means one celebration after another. But to Kestrel it means living in a cage of her own making. As the wedding approaches, she aches to tell Arin the truth about her engagement…if she could only trust him. Yet can she even trust herself? For—unknown to Arin—Kestrel is becoming a skilled practitioner of deceit: an anonymous spy passing information to Herran, and close to uncovering a shocking secret.

As Arin enlists dangerous allies in the struggle to keep his country’s freedom, he can’t fight the suspicion that Kestrel knows more than she shows. In the end, it might not be a dagger in the dark that cuts him open, but the truth. And when that happens, Kestrel and Arin learn just how much their crimes will cost them."

Carolyn's thoughts on the book:
Firstly, it should be noted that I will make references to certain plot points of the first book in the series, so be duly warned - spoilers may abound.

I enjoyed the first book of the Winner's Trilogy (The Winner's Curse), and I loved the sequel (which definitely defies the dreaded 'Middle Book Bridge Syndrome') - to the extent that I actually liked it better than the first. Something that I love in this series is the intricate world-building. While the completely different setting gives the series more of a fantasy feel, I would classify it as dystopian (although the world Kestrel inhabits is only as technologically advanced as pre-industrial Europe). Valoria, the country Kestral lives in, is a violently bloody and expansionist nation that has conquered (and at one point, enslaved) the neighboring country of Herran, artistically superior but militarily inferior to Valoria (thus emulating the Romans vs Greeks dynamic).

After freeing the enslaved Herrani by promising to marry the Emperor's son, Kestral finds herself in a delicate position: her loyalty constantly tested by her future-father in law, her fiancé less-than-happy to be engaged to someone he has never met, and her country aggressively pursuing complete domination through warfare. The politician and patriot inside of her wants to support the empire, even at all costs, and the loving daughter inside of her wants to prove her military worth to her father, the head of the Valorian army. However, her sense of humanity and her complicated relationship with Arin cause her to question the complex, privileged world she's come to reside in, and ultimately side with the oppressed. Once her slave-turned-captor (during the slave revolt), now the governor of the Herran peninsula, Arin couldn't be further apart from Kestrel (who reciprocates his disdain and distance). But when Kestrel joins the Herrani cause, unbeknownst to Arin, their lives (as well as their secrets) become even more entangled. 

The Winner's Crime is a superb sequel, and would make a great read for teens and adults who enjoy political intrigue, dystopian stories, and even fantasy. I'm eagerly awaiting the publication of the third novel, The Winner's Kiss, in March of 2016.

Official Book trailer:

Carolyn is a teen blogger who shares her favorite YA reads and favorite book related finds with readers on Fridays.

Public School Superhero, First Book Donation & Giveaway

Public School Superhero
by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts
Illustrated by Cory Thomas
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (March 16, 2015)

About the book: 
In this story about a good kid with a great imagination struggling in a less-than-ideal world, James Patterson brings his bestselling "Middle School"-style humor and sensibility to an urban setting.

Kenny Wright is a kid with a secret identity. In his mind, he's Stainlezz Steel, super-powered defender of the weak. In reality, he's a chess club devotee known as a "Grandma's Boy," a label that makes him an easy target for bullies. Kenny wants to bring a little more Steel to the real world, but the question is: can he recognize his own true strength before peer pressure forces him to make the worst choice of his life? James Patterson's newest illustrated novel is a genuinely funny yet poignant look at middle school in a challenging urban setting, where a kid's life can depend on the everyday decisions he makes.

First Book Donation: 
In 2015, James Patterson will donate 100,000 copies of PUBLIC SCHOOL SUPERHERO to some of the most neglected and underfunded schools in America, and he will launch a major campaign to support school libraries. In 2014, in addition to giving a copy of one of his middle grade books to every sixth grader in the New York City and Chicago public school systems, Patterson gave $1,000,000 to independent bookstores with children’s sections.  

When James Patterson meets with underprivileged kids at schools in some of the country’s poorest neighborhoods, they often ask him, “Why can’t we be heroes in any books?”  To answer that question and to bring more books into more kids’ lives, James Patterson is donating 100,000 copies of his new book for young readers, Public School Superhero, to some of the most under-resourced schools and youth programs in the country.  He was moved to make this donation after recognizing a large and underserved community of children who don’t see themselves portrayed in dynamic, entertaining stories often enough.

These same kids also inspired Public School Superhero, by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts, with illustrations by Cory Thomas, a book about an African American sixth-grade chess devotee named Kenny Wright who lives in an inner city. It’s a story brimming with wit, action, and heart, one all kids are bound to find relatable and entertaining.

The books will be distributed through First Book, a nonprofit social enterprise that provides new books for kids in need. First Book is a nonprofit social enterprise that has distributed more than 125 million books and educational resources to programs and schools serving children from low-income families in the United States and Canada. By making new, high-quality books available on an ongoing basis, First Book is transforming the lives of children in need and elevating the quality of education. For more information visit firstbook.org or join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.

Photo Credit: David Burnett

About James Patterson:
James Patterson was selected by readers across America as the Children's Choice Book Awards Author of the Year in 2010. He is the internationally bestselling author of the highly praised Middle School books, I Funny, Confessions of a Murder Suspect, and the Maximum Ride, Witch & Wizard, Daniel X, and Alex Cross series. His books have sold over 275 million copies worldwide, making him one of the bestselling authors of all time.

Enter the Rafflecopter below to win a James Patterson prize pack: 

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Nonfiction Picture Book Wednesday: Fatal Fever Blog Tour

Fatal Fever: Tracking Down Typhoid Mary
by Gail Jarrow
Calkins Creek/Boyds Mills Press (March 10, 2015)
Audience: Grades 5 to 12
Nonfiction * Epidemics * Disease Control
WorldCat | IndieBound

When I was approached by Boyds Mills Press to be a part of this blog tour, I knew a certain 14 year old who would love to interview Gail.  So, today I welcome author Gail Jarrow to Kid Lit Frenzy and thank you Jax for handling the interview.  

Jax had previously red Gail's Red Madness and found it extremely fascinating. She had a chance to read an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) of Fatal Fever.  As with Red Madness, Jax felt that Fatal Fever keeps readers engaged and interested and on the edge of their seats. Jax loved how Gail clearly articulates thoughts and concepts and felt that she learned a lot about Typhoid Mary and looks forward to reading more from Gail.

Thank you Jax for the interview questions and thank you Gail for your fabulous responses.  

What got you interested in writing  about epidemics?
When I was in 8th grade, I won a prize in my school science fair. It was a book called “Giants of Medicine”  about the scientists who discovered cures for various diseases. I’ve been fascinated by epidemics ever since.   I decided to write a trilogy about the doctors and public health experts who fought disease in the early 1900s. Those years were a turning point in medicine. [The final book in the trilogy is about bubonic plague.]

....and about Typhoid Mary?
As I was doing research for RED MADNESS, about pellagra, I read that typhoid fever sickened many Americans during the same period. Typhoid Mary became a symbol of the disease, and I wanted to find out more about her.  I heard from a friend that my hometown of Ithaca, New York, had experienced a typhoid epidemic in 1903. When I looked into it, I discovered that the same man who tracked down Typhoid Mary had helped Ithaca end its outbreak.  I knew I had the subject of my next book!
 
How long does it take to gather all of the information/research? 
For about a year, I read about Typhoid Mary and  typhoid fever epidemics in the late 1800s and early 1900s. I interviewed scientists and read their research papers so that I could understand the disease. I went to the New York City area where much of the book’s action takes place. 

...and how do you decide on what goes into the book? 
In the beginning chapters, I wanted to show that typhoid outbreaks were common in 1900. Chances are good that one of your ancestors had the disease or personally knew someone who did.   I included the chapters about the Ithaca epidemic to give readers a close-up look at  typhoid fever’s devastating effect on individuals, families, and communities. Those tragedies  explain why people like George Soper and Josephine Baker worked so hard to stop the outbreaks. 

...and what is left out?
I found two problems in writing a nonfiction book about Typhoid Mary. One, we don’t have too much solid information about her. Two, everyone involved in her story died long ago. Over the years, many  myths  about her have circulated. I only included what I could confirm with  reliable sources  such as her writings or those  of people who actually knew her.
 
I also left out the more complicated scientific facts about typhoid fever.  I learned as much as possible so that I could  explain the disease to readers. But some of the information is only interesting and understandable to medical experts. Any reader who wants to learn more will check out my bibliography.

Where do you get all of the photographs?
I looked through collections of medical photographs, past and present; century-old books, magazines, and newspapers; history museums and archives; and the Library of Congress.
 
What grossed you out the most in writing about Typhoid Mary?
Because I studied zoology in college, I don’t often get grossed out by gruesome medical details.  For instance, I didn’t mind reading about how typhoid bacteria attack the body. What bothered me was thinking about how the disease spreads. As one scientist wrote in the early 1900s: “Dirt, diarrhea and dinner too often get sadly confused.” You can bet I wash my hands before eating and cooking! And in a restaurant, I  hope the chef does, too.

What is your research routine?
That depends on the topic. In general, I  start by looking for primary sources, such as autobiographies, accounts of events written by witnesses, and government records.  I read well-researched books and articles about the subject,  written by professional historians and scientists. By checking out their bibliographies, I find other sources. While I’m doing my research, I keep a running list of questions I  need answered. I save those for the experts I interview.
 
What is the most asked question from your readers?
“Why did you become a writer?”
Answer: Because ever since I was 7 or 8, I’ve enjoyed using the written word to communicate my thoughts and ideas. I write nonfiction because I love learning about  new subjects and sharing my knowledge with others, particularly young people. 
 
What is most interesting about writing for this age group (Middle School/High School)?
I used to teach science to this age group. I like that these readers understand more complex subjects and think about ideas more deeply than much younger students do. That opens many exciting and intriguing possibilities for my writing projects. Since I want readers to be as excited and intrigued by a subject as I am, I challenge myself to write the best book I can. 

About the author: 
Gail Jarrow is the award-winning author of nonfiction books for upper elementary through high school ages. A former science teacher, she likes to choose subjects for her books that combine history and science.

She lives in Ithaca, New York. Visit her at Website | Facebook 

Don't forget to link up your nonfiction reviews:

Book Review: The Many Faces of Josephine Baker

The Many Faces of Josephine Baker
By Peggy Caravantes (Chicago Review Press, February 1, 2015)
ndieBound | Worldcat

Description from GoodReads:
A complete biographical look at the complex life of a world-famous entertainer. 

With determination and audacity, Josephine Baker turned her comic and musical abilities into becoming a worldwide icon of the Jazz Age. The Many Faces of Josephine Baker: Dancer, Singer, Activist, Spy provides the first in-depth portrait of this remarkable woman for young adults. Author Peggy Caravantes follows Baker’s life from her childhood in the depths of poverty to her comedic rise in vaudeville and fame in Europe. This lively biography covers her outspoken participation in the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, espionage work for the French Resistance during World War II, and adoption of 12 children—her “rainbow tribe.” Also included are informative sidebars on relevant topics such as the 1917 East St. Louis riot, Pullman railway porters, the Charleston, and more. The lush photographs, appendix updating readers on the lives of the rainbow tribe, source notes, and bibliography make this is a must-have resource for any student, Baker fan, or history buff.

Carolyn's thoughts on the book:
I normally don't read that much nonfiction, but I did enjoy The Many Faces of Josephine Baker. The life of Josephine Baker is so compelling and intriguing that this makes for a great read for middle and high schoolers alike. Josephine's life is fascinating - from her success story to her work as a spy, the story of her unique life never bores. While many of us search for heroes (especially heroines) in fiction, Josephine Baker is a great heroine from history (perfect for Women's History Month) who, for the most part, has sadly been forgotten by history. This book does a good job of highlighting her life and work. I would recommend The Many Faces of Josephine Baker as a resource for research into important historical women for school, or simply as an educational bit of free-reading for middle grade readers. 

Though narrated in French, this clip from the Dayton Art Institute gives you a taste of Josephine Baker's quirky and ahead of the times style:

About the author: 
Peggy Caravantes is a former English and history teacher, middle school principal, and deputy school superintendent. She is the author of 16 books for middle grades and young adult readers, including Petticoat Spies: Six Women Spies of the Civil War and American Hero: The Audie Murphy Story. Her YA biographies have been selected for the California Titles for Young Adults, Tri-State Books of Note, and the Top Forty Young Adult Nonfiction Books lists. She lives in San Antonio, Texas.

For further reading on Josephine Baker try these illustrated biographies:

Jazz Age Josephine by Jonah Winter: Illustrated by Marjorie Priceman (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2012)

Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker by Patricia Hruby Powell; Illustrated by Christian Robinson (Chronicle Books, 2014)

Ontario Teen Book Fest: Spotlight on Elizabeth Ross

I am glad to welcome Elizabeth Ross to Kid Lit Frenzy.  Elizabeth is the author of Belle Epoque (Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 2013), which was recognized as a finalist by ALA's William C. Morris Award. Those attending the Ontario Teen Book Fest on March 21st will have an opportunity to meet Elizabeth. Here is a chance to catch up with Elizabeth.

When I read a book, there is usually a favorite line or scene that jumps out at me. In your debut novel Belle Epoque, do you have a favorite scene or a scene that was fun to write?

I love the end chapter of Belle Epoque. I wrote it very quickly one afternoon (generally I don't write quickly!) but it came out easily, already formed. And I didn't change it much during revisions. It felt kind of like a revelation--as though it had taken writing a whole novel for me to get to these words Maude says at the end. As a writer that moment felt electric.

Speaking of Belle Epoque any plans for a movie? 

Yes! The movie rights have been optioned by a producer and the plan is that I write the first draft of the script. Belle Epoque has such a visually stunning setting--turn of the century Paris--that it just would lend itself to being translated for the big screen don't you think...?

Rumor has it that you are working on a 1940's Hollywood historical fiction story? The time period, the clothes, Hollywood. Can you tell us anything and are you having any fun with the research for the book?

I ADORE classic Hollywood: the clothes, the architecture, the movies--everything. Los Angeles has all this hidden movie history and so I just have to leave my house to be inspired. Recently I checked out the Hollywood costume exhibit which was fascinating. There was this amazing beaded sequin outfit worn by Carole Lombard in the 1930's - all silver, gleaming and dangerous!

One of my favorite things is to get a glimpse at where an author writes his or her books. Are you mobile with a laptop or do you have a special space and if so, can we get a glimpse of it? 

I write long-hand in a notebook and on my laptop. I have a magical writing space at the end of our garden, where we renovated our garage into an office on one side and my husband's motorbike/workshop/man cave on the other side. It's essential to have a writing space where you can close the door and escape into the world of your book. I'm very lucky to have such a nice space to write. Here's the view of the massive bird of paradise by my window.

What are your five favorite places in the Los Angeles area? Hole in the walls or off-beat kind of places would be great too if you have any?

Griffith Park is my favorite place to go for a stroll and mull over my writing. It's surrounded by city but when you're there, it's a total escape--you feel as though you could be in the countryside. Honestly I don't have much time now to hang out in cafes or bars (I have a toddler!). But I love my Silver Lake neighborhood and just pottering around here makes me happy.

Authors tend to get questions from readers at school visits or in emails, tweets, letters, etc.  Do you have a favorite question or comment from a reader?

It's wonderful when readers get in touch and tell me that they fell in love with a particular character, or that the story spoke to them in some way. That's such a privilege as an author -- to have your words connect with a stranger. I suppose that connection is part of the reason I write.

What are you currently reading? Can we get a shot of your TBR pile?

I'm currently reading VANGO by Timothée de Fombelle. It's totally original--kind of like an old Hitchcock movie like "The 39 Steps" - a real adventure.  Next up is Mary McCoy's DEAD TO ME.  It just came out and I've been impatiently waiting to read it! 

About Elizabeth Ross: 
Elizabeth Ross’s debut novel, BELLE EPOQUE, was published in 2013 by Delacorte Press, an imprint of Random House. The novel was a finalist for the American Library Association’s William C. Morris Debut Award and the California Book Award.

Originally from Scotland, Elizabeth now lives in Los Angeles with her husband and son. Her website is www.elizabethrossbooks.com 

Looking forward to seeing everyone on Saturday, March 21, 2015 for the Ontario Teen Book Fest.

Where: Colony High School - 3850 E. Riverside Dr., Ontario, CA 91761
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Important Info: This is a free event. No ticket needed.
Website: Ontario Teen Book Fest
Booksales: Once Upon a Time

Check out the other stops in the Blog Tour:

February 28th: Spotlight on Kasie West -- Adventures of a Book Junkie
March 1st: Spotlight on Melissa Landers -- What A Nerd Girl Says
March 2nd: Spotlight on Brad Gottfred -- Recently Acquired Obsessions
March 3rd: Spotlight on Catherine Linka -- Read Now Sleep Later
March 4th: Spotlight on Debra Driza -- Read Now Sleep Later
March 5th: Spotlight on Katie Finn -- Fearless Kurt Reads YA
March 6th: Spotlight on Claudia Gray -- A Bookish Escape
March 7th: Spotlight on Shannon Messenger -- People Like Books
March 8th: Spotlight on Lauren Miller -- The Thousand Lives
March 9th: Spotlight on Mary Elizabeth Summer -- What A Nerd Girl Says
March 10th: Spotlight on Anna Carey -- The Reader's Antidote
March 11th: Spotlight on Sherri Smith -- Movies, Shows and Books
March 12th: Spotlight on Elizabeth Ross -- Kid Lit Frenzy
March 13th: Spotlight on Jessica Khoury -- The Consummate Reader
March 14th: Spotlight on Maurene Goo -- The Windy Pages
March 15th: Spotlight on Cecil Castellucci -- Nite Lite Book Reviews
March 16th: Spotlight on Jessica Brody -- The Romance Bookie
March 17th: Spotlight on Gretchen McNeil -- Movies, Shows and Books
March 18th: Spotlight on Aaron Hartzler -- Fangirl Feeels
March 19th: Spotlight on Michelle Levy -- The Consummate Reader

Don't forget to enter the giveaway: Participants must be 13 years or older and have  U.S. mailing address.

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