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Librarian’s Review of Publisher’s Advance Copy Date: October 30, 2015 Author: Aguirre, Ann Title: The Queen of Bright and Shiny Things Publisher: Feiwel and Friends

Publication Date: 2015

ISBN:

Pages: 328

978-1-250-04750-2

Nonfiction:

Easy:

Fiction: X

Price: $17.99

Genre/Dewey Classification: realistic fiction

Theme or Topic: dating; high schools; conduct of life; single-parent families; social action Grade Range: Grades 7 and up Quality Rating   X  

Purchase Rating Outstanding Above Average Average Below Average

Highly Recommended Recommended X Additional Selection Not Recommended

Comments/Evaluation: none available at this time High schooler Sage fills her time finding causes to work for – whether helping individuals by placing positive messages on Post-It notes on their lockers, or helping the environment by cleaning public areas. This work for public good is actually an avoidance technique. Sage’s past is painful; now living with her aunt in a small town, Sage does everything she can to not induce the rage and nightmares that come with thinking about it. But, when rough but good-looking and aloof Shane arrives, Sage finds herself drawn to him, and finds herself doing things to get his attention that she never thought she would have done. Shane, also somewhat damaged, falls for Sage and together they learn to look forward rather than back. That’s not easy, however, when the dark secret that Sage has tried to keep hidden for three years is revealed, and Shane is placed in foster care after a fit of rage in defense of Sage. Through this troubled time Sage learns that leaning on her aunt and on friends is ok, and that support nets are best when not only one person is holding them. Very romantic, with realistically flawed characters, this book will appeal to those looking for a dramatic, romantic read. The story bogs down a little towards the last third of the book – ironically, when a lot of the drama happens – but by then most readers will be invested in the characters. The writing may not stay with readers forever, but the story will have appeal while being read.

Annotation: Sage has learned to substitute causes for relationships, and it’s working just fine…until Shane Cavendish strolls into her math class. He’s a little antisocial, a lot beautiful, and everything she never knew she always wanted. Prepared by: Laura Stiles, Librarian

Campus: Canyon Vista Middle School