I love reading fantasy, but was tired of vampires. So I was I was "pleasant"ly surprised when I picked up this title that features a walking-talking skelton detective that combines fantasy with mystery and adventure. Based in Ireland, the story leads us into the unknown world of sorcerers, elementals, magic, and a few vampires thrown in for good measure. The details about the three names is unique and fascinating and may lead the reader to selecting their own magical name. The story is fast-paced and easy to read. I would suggest the title for more mature young adult readers. There is no bad language or sex, but plenty of violence and torture. The series was published first in Europe and has been making its way to the U.S.A (rather slowly to an expectant reader). The Ancient ones (similar to the works of Lovecraft) are something to be left alone and there are always those that want to bring them back and those guardians that make sure they do not. I first became acquainted with the works of Lovecraft through the Real Ghostbusters cartoons. A similar group of bad guys also appears in the Percy Jackson series. “The only currency worth anything is being true to yourself, and the only goal worth seeking is finding out who you truly are.” – Uncle Gordon’s Will – Advice to Stephanie (p22).

A look at what Hitler did to Germany and the brain-washing of the Hitler Youth told by one of the young men that spoke out against the Nazi Regime. Based on a true story, gives the historical facts within a ficional story with the realism of war without being too graphic. However, there is violence and torture described. Includes photographs of Helmuth Hubener and his family.

Excellent book that details the events surrounding the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire in New York, 1911. The story is told through the eyes of Rose, a newly arrived Irish teenager and her journey to find work to support herself and younger sister. The hardships of immigrants coming to America are a focus of the first third of the book which includes the ship voyage, the Ellis Island process, and the first impressions of being in America. The second part of the book deals with Roses search for a job, being seen as a greenhorn by other immigrants, and finding a way to survive in the big city. The last part of the book details the workers and conditions of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory and the results of the tragic fire which claimed 146 lives. The book is well researched and is written in an easy to read language. The disaster is explained in detail without being too graphic, still some may find it hard to read if they are sensitive to such details. Would make a great book for a discussion group.