Harlan Coben: King of Twists

In an attempt to find a title that I, a self-acknowledged book snob -- I can't bring myself to join book groups because I refuse to give up claim on my reading life to others' whims -- and my advisory of high school juniors would enjoy reading over the summer, I discovered Harlan Coben. The kids said they'd like to do something "like John Grisham." When it comes to Grisham, I'd really prefer to wait for the movie. But I went on the hunt for something similar.

I found Caught, Coben's recent title nominated for a 2011 Edgar Allan Poe Award. If you think you can anticipate the plot turns before they arrive on this one, my hat's off to you! I found this an exciting, fun and all-round excellent reading experience. It has led me to read or listen to several of his other novels, none of which I like quite as much, with the exception of Hold Tight. Both titles are solid mysteries and, since I'm chief-in-charge of organizing my school's summer reading program, I recommended Hold Tight to a teacher looking for title to sponsor. Turns out he'd already read it and now our program sports two Coben titles! While I think Caught is the better of the two books, Hold Tight has a theme of teens in trouble and cyber-privacy that high school students will enjoy. Let's hope Coben's hitting streak stays strong for next year!

Remake by Connie Willis

Just finished this short but wonderful novel. I'm not sure there are many science fiction authors who manage to imbue the future with nostalgia, but Willis has done just that in Remake. Apparently, Ms. Willis is a movie-buff and she puts her hobby to work in this story of a future Hollywood  that reuses old films to make new ones -- obviating the need for new talent. Alis, a young woman bent on dancing in musicals, will not be deterred from her dream despite the utter lack of demand. This is a wonderful story anyone who refuses to be told something is impossible and maybe even more wonderful for those who already believe it. Excellent!