Great gifts for ages 7-12

recent book review

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Age 14+
Book

Graceling

By Kristin Cashore

Satisfying but violent fantasy debut for teens.

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Age 7+
Book

The Houdini Box

By Brian Selznick

Lightweight story with great illustrations.

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Age 10+
Book

Science Fair

By Dave Barry

Both hilarious and fast-paced -- a great vacation read.

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Age 15+
Book

The Spectacular Now

By Tim Tharp

Portrait of a teen drunk needs discussion.

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Age 12+
Book

Chains

By Laurie Anderson

Brutal depiction of slavery in 1776 New York.

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Are you caught up on the best reads of 2007? Hurry before the big 2008 awards are announced on Jan. 26.
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Girls and body image

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What messages are out there that you should be aware of?
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About Common Sense

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Beyond Harry Potter: Fantasy Books About Kids Learning Magic

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Which fantasy book creature has the best name?

Fluffy (3-headed dog, Harry Potter)
25% (4 votes)
Mister Grin (giant crocodile, Peter and the Starcatchers)
13% (2 votes)
Vermicious Knid (shapeshifting monster, Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator)
6% (1 vote)
The Incredibly Deadly Viper (harmless snake, Series of Unfortunate Events)
13% (2 votes)
Bunnicula (vampire bunny, Bunnicula series)
44% (7 votes)
16 votes