Ms. Nic's Reading goal for 2008/2009 I decided that I want to increase my knowledge of Young Adult Literature so that I can do a better job of giving my students advice on what books to choose. My goal is to read 50 YAL books before the school year is over. I will do short book reviews of each book so that I don't forget them, and I'll rate them on a scale of 1 - 10, with 10 being a must-read. If you know of a book I should read, please let me know! 1. TWILIGHT by Stephanie Meyers. I really liked this book. The characters were so interesting, the plot was engaging, and there was great action. I would definitely recommend this book to someone who would enjoy a romantic story with a strong heroine. I give this book a 9. 2. SKULLDUGGERY by Pete Hautman and Mary Logue. I went to the library to get INVISIBLE by P. Hautman, but it was checked out so I got this one instead. This is an easy read with an interesting plot. The main characters, Roni and Brian, are amateur detectives, and this is one in a series of books about them. I really loved the character of Brian especially. This book was an 8. 3. THE SINGER OF ALL SONGS by Kate Constable. It took me a good 50 pages to get into this book, but once I did I was hooked! The central character, Calwyn, is a great girl, the sort of character you'd like to have as a best friend. Her strengths sort of sneak up on you...she goes from being "just a girl" to being a powerful force for good. The other characters in the book are interesting as well. I give this a 9, a great score considering how tough it was to get into it. Currently Reading:HOLES by Louis Sachar (am I the only one who's never read it?) Stay tuned as Ms. Nic works towards her goal of 50 books by June 19!