Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos. Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2011. 352 pages.

I always love Jack Gantos-- whether he is Joey Pigza, Ralph, Jackie or has a hole in his heart. A clever, heartfelt and always funny portrayal of Gantos' disfunctional family, neighbors and town. Done well and with love. A fast read. Loved it.

The Scrapbook of Frankie Pratt: a novel in pictures by Caroline Preston. New York: Ecco/Haper Collins, 2011

A coming of age story. A decade in the life of Frankie Pratt told with pictures and ticket stubs and newpaper clippings and captions from her scrapbook. 1920s, Cornish NH, high school graduation, inappropriate relationship, looking for love, Vassar, love, NY, Paris, NH. Clever and tender and very readable-- and rereadable. so much to see on everypage and i love non linear reading and journal books. Adult book but great for teens-- Alex Award winner. Loved it. Buying it for YA.