Skinned

by Robin Wasserman

Lia Kahn has the perfect life. But the day of the car crash, everything changes. Due to the extent of her injuries, Lia undergoes a controversial new "treatment." Her mind is downloaded into a robotic body, known to the public as "skinners." Lia must face this new reality of being a machine in a world where her kind is hated. And how can she resume her old life in a body that is not her own?

This book is about birth, death and rebirth. A thought-provoking science fiction novel. I recommend it to all teens 12+.

4/5 stars.

Heir to Sevenwaters
Juliet Marillier

I wasn't expecting another book about Sevenwaters from my favorite author, but I was definitely thrilled when I heard about it. Coming after Marillier's Sevenwater's Trilogy, Heir to Sevenwaters is a worthy addition. It follows the story of Clodagh, a daughter of the House of Sevenwaters, whose mother is expected to give birth soon. But she is far past the safe age for childbearing, and the household is on edge. And then her newborn son disappears from his chamber, leaving something else in his stead. It is up to Clodagh to right the wrong done to her family.
Romance, adventure, magic, even if you have not read the preceding books, you can enjoy this book.
5/5 stars, recommended for teens 13+

Body of Work: Meditations on Mortality from the Human Anatomy Lab
Christine Montross

In her book, Body of Work, Montross tells of a first-year med student's struggle with human dissection. She describes the process, the philosophy and the history of the practice. If you are interested in the medical field, I highly recommend this book. Montross offers a glimpse into the process of becoming a doctor as well as the philosophical questions it entails. Definitely not for the squeamish!
I found this book very interesting and it really made me think. Recommended for teens 14+, 4 out of 5 stars.

Hawksong

by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

All Danica has known is war. She has lost countless loved ones to the war that has raged between her people and the serpiente. Able to take the form of a majestic hawk, Danica is heir to the throne. But she will do anything for peace. So when Zane Cobriana, the unpredictable cobra and heir to the serpiente throne, makes an offer, how much will she sacrifice?

I absolutely adore this book. The story is simple but beautifully orchestrated. The characters are vivid and their world entirely believable. Highly recommended for all teens. 4 1/2 out of 5 stars.

Like Hawksong? Read Snakecharm, the sequel.

Old Magic

Marianne Curley

Jarrod is the new kid at school, and Kate is sure there is something different about him. Especially when he causes a huge thunderstorm, indoors. But Kate has never been "cool," so how can she get Jarrod to realize his powers before he hurts someone?

I really enjoyed this book. The story was interesting and wasn't too predictable. Recommended for teen girls, 4 out of 5 stars.