From: Connie Rockman <connie.rock>
Date: Thu, 8 Dec 2005 09:43:06 -0500

Two YA books that have resonated for me this year:

The Eyes of the Emperor by Graham Salisbury - this had an intensity that didn't let up and built to a crescendo. I read parts of it with my heart in my mouth. Knowing that it is a true story, that Salisbury actually interviewed people who were involved, makes it all the more moving and intense.

All Rivers Flow to the Sea by Alison McGhee - a stark and taut story of grief, written with compassion and poetic intensity. The characters have stayed with me long after the book was over. The community feels remarkably real, especially when you read other books, both adult and YA, that McGhee has set in the same place.

For children's books, the ones I like best so far:

The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall - a solid "good read" but more than that - great characters with terrific ensemble acting within the story
- each sister has a distinct personality, and the family dynamics are believable, enjoyable and, sometimes, poignant.

Permanent Rose by Hilary McKay - Another great ensemble cast, set in motion in Saffy's Angel, and continuing to grow and develop through this third book about the family. Rose may be the most complex and interesting of the lot of them.


Connie Rockman
Received on Thu 08 Dec 2005 08:43:06 AM CST