Hunger Games

Collins, Suzanne. The Hunger Games. 2008. 374p. ISBN 9780439023528. Available at FIC COL on the library shelves.

In the dystopian future, the nation of Panem rises from the ruins of North America, governed by a harsh and cruel Capitol that controls twelve outlying districts. To maintain order and as a brutal annual reminder of its power, the Capitol forces each district to send one boy and one girl, aged twelve to eighteen, to participate in the Hunger Games. This televised event is a fight to the death, where only one tribute can emerge victorious.

For sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives with her mother and younger sister, volunteering to take her sister's place in the Games feels like a death sentence. However, having faced near-death experiences before, survival is second nature to her. Without consciously intending to, Katniss becomes a formidable contender, but her journey forces her to confront agonizing choices that weigh her own survival against her humanity, and the very essence of life against the complexities of love.

The story continues in 

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 27

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 27. 2021. 218p. ISBN 9781974731077. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Amidst the fiery debris of the Illuminati airship that crashed in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 26, Rin battles to rein in his demonic alter ego, fearing it will consume both him and his brother, Yukio. A deep-seated mutual misunderstanding has driven a wedge between the siblings, culminating in an inevitable, all-out fight that has long been brewing. This intense confrontation forces their unresolved issues to the surface, demanding a brutal resolution.

Following the immediate aftermath, all the Exwires, save Shiemi, reunite to process the traumatic events they've endured. However, the conflict with Satan is far from over, as he finally gains control of a human body that closely resembles Father Fujimoto, Rin and Yukio's father. Meanwhile, Shiemi faces a formidable opponent who will rigorously test her newfound resolve, suggesting that her own significant challenges lie ahead, independent of the main group.

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 28.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 19: Hot Mess

Kinney, Jeff. Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 19: Hot Mess. 2024. 218p. ISBN 9781419766954. Available at FIC KIN on the library shelves.

Greg Heffley is facing a summer of mounting stress as his family descends upon a small beach house, trying to recreate magical moments from their youth. Spurred on by Greg's grandmother, the experience creates a chaotic blend of personalities and close quarters under the intense heat. The combination of numerous relatives crammed into a limited space is quickly proving to be a recipe for comical yet frustrating situations. Greg finds himself navigating the usual family dynamics of family members fighting with each other, amplified by the confined environment and the sweltering weather.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the vacation is the long-held family secret surrounding the ingredients of Gramma’s renowned meatballs. As Greg endures the various mishaps and interactions of the summer, he also becomes curious about uncovering this culinary mystery. The question remains whether he will successfully unravel the secrets of his family history before their vacation concludes, or if his presence will simply add more turmoil to the already overflowing pot of family dynamics.

Naruto, Vol. 34: Reunion

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 34: Reunion. 2011. 192p. ISBN 9781421520025. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Following their confrontation with Orichimaru in Naruto, Vol. 33, Naruto and Sakura, accompanied by Sai, finally track down Sasuke, their long-lost teammate, but their reunion is far from amicable. Sasuke remains resolute in his decision to sever ties with Konoha and refuses to return peacefully. This sets the stage for a fierce and unavoidable confrontation between the former allies, their skills and ideologies clashing in a potentially devastating battle.

The gravity of the situation is immense, and Naruto alone may not be enough to subdue Sasuke. Sasuke's power and determination have grown to a level that poses a significant threat even to his former comrades. Can Naruto find a way to bring Sasuke back without anyone getting harmed?

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 26

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 26. 2020. 282p. ISBN 9781974718467. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Following his trip back in time, which concluded in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 25, Rin returns to find himself aboard the damaged Illuminati airship, Dominus Liminis, armed with the devastating truth about his and his brother's origins. He confronts Yukio, who is also on the airship, as their father, Satan, attempts to manipulate them both further into his control. Rin's primary goal is to convince Yukio to return to the Knights of the True Cross.

However, Yukio is unyielding, seemingly determined to provoke Rin into killing him. As the Dominus Liminis descends in flames, the confrontation between the brothers intensifies, transforming into a desperate battle for Yukio's very soul. The outcome of this fiery clash will determine not only their individual fates but also the ongoing struggle against Satan's influence.

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 27.

Naruto, Vol. 33: Secret Missions

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 33: Secret Missions. 2011. 192p. ISBN 9781421520018. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Now in position by the bridge after Naruto, Vol. 32, Naruto and his team await the results of the meeting between Yamato posing as Sasori and Kabuto. But Orochimaru anticipated this move, and he intervenes to capture Sasori. In the following confrontation, Naruto undergoes a terrifying transformation, his powers escalating to a point where he loses control and shockingly turns against his own teammates. This unexpected and dangerous shift throws his allies into immediate peril, forcing them to confront a vastly more powerful and unpredictable Naruto. The reasons behind this violent metamorphosis remain unclear, leaving his friends bewildered and struggling to understand the sudden betrayal by someone they trust.

Amidst this conflict and chaos, Orochimaru reveals a terrifying and far-reaching plot. His machinations, long shrouded in secrecy, are unveiled to have caused a staggering number of deaths, far exceeding what anyone had previously imagined. The revelation of Orochimaru's deadly scheme casts a dark shadow over the events, suggesting that Naruto's transformation might be intrinsically linked to this larger, more malevolent plan that threatens the entire ninja world.

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 34. 

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 25

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 25. 2020. 282p. ISBN 9781974718467. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Rin's visions of the past, which started in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 23 and continued in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 24, culminate in the devastating climax of the Blue Night, where he witnesses Satan's cloned body fail to contain the immense cosmic energies within him. This catastrophic event unleashes an unprecedented crisis upon the Knights of the True Cross, as a wave of destruction begins to sweep across the entire world, threatening to engulf everything in its path.

Despite being a mere newborn, Rin possesses immense demonic power, his demon heart unleashing scorching blue flames that ravage the Knights of the True Cross. These destructive blue flames continue to spread relentlessly, ensuring that no one will be spared from their intense heat and the widespread devastation they cause.

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 26.

Naruto, Vol. 32: The Search for Sasuke

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 32: The Search for Sasuke. 2011. 184p. ISBN 9781421519449. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Upon returning from their battle with Sasori in Naruto, Vol. 31, Team Kakashi faces the absence of their leader as Kakashi needs a week to recover. As a result, Naruto and Sakura are appointed a new leader and a new teammate, Sai, who is mysterious and has strange jitsu powers. Sai changes the team's dynamic for the worse, and both Sakura and Naruto are annoyed at his presence.

Meanwhile, Lady Tsunada convinces reluctant elders that it is better to send Naruto on missions than keeping him in Kohona, where he would be easy for his enemies to locate. Sent to make contact with a spy in Orochimaru's organization, Naruto's team head to a famous bridge in what could very well be an ambush!

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 33.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 18: No Brainer

Kinney, Jeff. Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 18: No Brainer. 2023. 224p. ISBN 9781419766947. Available at FIC KIN on the library shelves.

Greg Heffley's adventures continue as his middle school now faces closure based on horrible test scores. Large budget cuts have undermined the educational mission of the school, and as a result test scores have plummeted. Initially indifferent to the prospect, Greg's perspective shifts when he realizes the closure would mean being separated from his best friend, Rowley Jefferson. Suddenly, saving the school becomes a top priority, and Greg finds himself reluctantly joining forces with his classmates to prevent the inevitable.

Greg's efforts to rescue his school form the core of the story, as he and his classmates devise various schemes and plans. The potential closure of the school looms large, threatening to disrupt the established order of Greg's middle school life and usher in a new, uncertain chapter. 

No Brainer continues the familiar blend of humor and relatable middle school experiences that have made the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series a global phenomenon.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 24

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 24. 2019. 210p. ISBN 9781974711727. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Following his time travel with Mephisto in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 23, Rin continues to confront the tragic events of the Blue Night. He witnessed the moment his mother, Yuri Egin, gave birth to him and Yukio. Though he had long resisted learning about his origins, this harrowing experience reveals crucial information about himself that might be vital for the impending conflict. This newfound knowledge comes at a heavy emotional cost, pushing Rin to grapple with a past he never wished to acknowledge.

Meanwhile, aboard the airship Dominus Liminus, the Illuminati and Lucifer relentlessly advance their apocalyptic agenda: to summon Satan and reduce the world to nothingness. Lucifer has seemingly welcomed Yukio as an ally into their ranks. However, Yukio harbors his own secret intentions, suggesting a deeper, more complex plan that could disrupt the Illuminati's destructive aspirations, even as the world stands on the brink of annihilation.

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 25.

Win, Lose, or Die

Gardner, John. Win, Lose, or Die. Book 8 of the James Bond series. 1989. 319p. ISBN 9780425122617.

M receives intelligence that BAST (Brotherhood of Anarchy and Secret Terrorism) plans to infiltrate and destroy the "Stewards' Meeting," a top-secret summit aboard a Royal Navy aircraft carrier involving President George H. W. Bush, Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev. To counter this threat, James Bond is reactivated to duty in the Royal Navy and promoted to Captain, tasked with infiltrating HMS Invincible to identify potential sleeper agents before the summit, scheduled a year later.

In the months leading up to the summit, Bond undergoes training to fly a Navy Sea Harrier jet. BAST, aware of his mission, attempts to eliminate him, first during a training exercise and later while he is on holiday in Italy, where his girlfriend, Beatrice Maria da Ricci, is seemingly killed. Upon returning, Bond boards HMS Invincible to manage security for the "Stewards' Meeting" amidst a massive joint war game, Landsea '89. However, he soon finds himself at the center of a murder investigation involving an American Naval Intelligence officer, and while he leaves to report the incident, BAST seizes the opportunity to capture the ship and hold the world leaders for a staggering $600 billion ransom.

Naruto, Vol. 31: Final Battle

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 31: Final Battle. 2011. 190p. ISBN 9781421519432. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

The fight between Sasori, Sakura, and Granny Chiyo from Naruto, Vol. 30 continues as the three of them fight in the Akatsuki cavern. Sasori's powerful and masterful control of his puppets overwhelms Granny Chiyo's defenses. But Sasori's overconfidence in his abilities prove to be the end of him when Sakura defeats him. Meanwhile, Kakashi and Naruto chase Deidara to recover Gaara's body. A fight between the three of them result in Deidara losing his right arm and barely escaping with his life. Granny Chiyo transfers the last of her life energy into Gaara, bringing him back to life.

The action sequences are intense and visually stunning, effectively conveying the dangerous power of the Akatsuki. While Naruto's involvement is limited, Sakura's battle alongside Granny Chiyo against Sasori is highlighted as a standout moment, with the emotional depth of the scenes praised. Sasori's unique and unsettling character design adds a layer of creepiness and tragedy to the conflict, eliciting both fear and pity at his untimely demise.

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 32.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol 17: Diper Overlode

 Kinney, Jeff. Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol 17: Diper Overlode. 2022. 224p. ISBN 9780241583098. Available at FIC KIN on the library shelves.

Greg Heffley embarks on a new adventure as his brother Rodrick needs help with his band, Löded Diper,. Rodrick and his bandmates have decided that to become stars and celebrities, they need to reach their fans, and there's no better way than winning a battle of the bands contest. And they will need help moving the equipment around. Initially excited about the prospect of being part of the band, Greg quickly discovers that the reality of the music scene isn't as glamorous as he imagined. He's confronted with the less appealing aspects of band life, including late-night practices, unpaid gigs, constant infighting among the band members, and the perpetual struggle for financial stability.

Greg's involvement with Löded Diper becomes a test of his patience and resilience as he navigates the chaotic world of amateur rock music. He must decide whether he can help the band achieve their dreams of legendary status or if the constant stress and dysfunction will ultimately be too much to handle. The question remains whether Greg's experience with Löded Diper will be a stepping stone to rock and roll glory or a "diper överlöde" – an overwhelming and messy disaster!

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 23

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 23. 2019. 210p. ISBN 9781974711727. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Following revelations about Rin and Yukio's mother in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 22, the tragic past of Yuri Egin, is gradually brought to light as Rin observes with Mephisto Pheles, revealing her prior involvement with Father Fujimoto as a promising young Exorcist. Both were key players in Section 13's ambitious research, which focused on creating immortality elixirs and developing clone bodies to serve as vessels for demonic spirits. This highly experimental project, aimed at harnessing demonic power, initially showed signs of progress.

However, the research took a catastrophic turn with the unforeseen manifestation of a demonic spirit within one of the clone bodies. This wasn't just any demon; it was Satan himself, the most powerful demon of all. This catastrophic event marked a pivotal moment in Yuri and Fujimoto's lives, setting in motion the tragic circumstances that would ultimately define Rin and Yukio's origins.

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 24.

Naruto, Vol. 30: Puppet Masters

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 30: Puppet Masters. 2011. 190. ISBN 9781421519425. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Naruto and his friends have to split up again following their discovery of a hidden cave where Gaara was taken in Naruto, Vol. 29. Naruto tempestuously rushes in battle but soon finds himself imperiled. Sakura steps forward to take on the formidable Sasori, a master puppeteer from the Akatsuki. Accompanied by the experienced Granny Chiyo, Sakura faces the challenge of battling Sasori's undead golems, which he manipulates with deadly precision. The fight becomes a tense display of puppet mastery, as both Sasori and Granny Chiyo utilize their skills to control their respective creations.

However, the battle takes on an added layer of complexity as Granny Chiyo, despite being Sakura's ally, also possesses the ability to control puppets, raising the possibility that she might use Sakura as her own puppet. This creates a precarious situation where Sakura must not only fight against Sasori's relentless attacks but also remain wary of her supposed ally, adding a layer of suspense and uncertainty to the already intense confrontation as both Naruto and Gaara lay injured in the room ...

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 31.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 22

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 22. 2018. 202p. ISBN 9781974703937. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

The rupture of the seals on the artificial Gehenna Gate in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 21 has unleashed widespread demonic chaos, plunging the world into pandemonium. In the wake of this crisis, the Exwires are left adrift without the leadership of Rin and Yukio, while the Knights of the True Cross struggle to regain their footing amidst the escalating crisis. Nations globally are battling to contain the demonic outbreaks, facing an unprecedented threat that throws established orders into disarray.

Amidst this global calamity, Rin confronts Mephisto, desperately seeking answers about his past. Mephisto, seemingly delighted by Rin's demand, agrees to reveal the events of long ago, but not without a chilling warning: the story can only culminate in tragedy. This foreboding revelation sets a dark tone for Rin's journey into his origins, hinting at a painful truth that will undoubtedly shape his future as the demonic chaos continues to engulf the world.

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 23.

Mr. Einstein's Secretary

Reilly, Matthew. Mr. Einstein's Secretary. 2024. 450p. ISBN 9781761260766.

Hanna Fischer and her twin sister Ooma live in Germany. Ooma has mental health issues, and is frequently hospitalized. At the end of the First World War, their father was one of the negotiators at the Treaty of Versailles, which ended the war but led to the myth that Germany had been stabbed in the back by its civilian government. An aspiring physicist, Hanna lives next door to Albert Einstein, and she dreams of studying physics with him. In 1919, her father is killed by assassins, and their house is burned to the ground. Escaping with only the clothes on her back, Hanna is helped by Einstein to immigrate to the United States.

This turn of events launches her into an extraordinary existence that encompasses roles as a student, secretary, sister, and spy. Her journey is fraught with peril, taking her from encounters with racist gangs in Berlin to dangerous gangsters in New York City, and later, into the menacing presence of Nazis in the 1930s and even Hitler's inner circle during World War II. Throughout these tumultuous historical periods, Hanna navigates a world filled with both brilliant minds and horrific events, all while desperately fighting for her survival, with several encounters with her sister Ooma, who successfully escapes and impersonates her on several occasions.

Over the course of forty years, Hanna serves a variety of "bosses," ranging from astute businessmen to vile Nazi officials, ultimately culminating in her working for the renowned Albert Einstein himself. Her unique position as a secretary places her at the heart of some of history's most dangerous moments. This thrilling tale of a young woman propelled through pivotal historical events promises a narrative where appearances can be deceiving, urging readers to pay close attention to the unfolding story.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 16: Big Shot

Kinney, Jeff. Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 16: Big Shot. 2021. 226p. ISBN 9781419749155. Available at FIC KIN on the library shelves.

Following a humiliating performance at his school's field day, Greg resolves to abandon his athletic aspirations entirely. However, yielding to his mother's encouragement for one final attempt, he reluctantly signs up for the basketball team. Despite a chaotic and unimpressive showing at tryouts, Greg surprisingly secures a position, albeit on the squad widely recognized as the least skilled within the school.

As the basketball season commences, Greg and his ragtag teammates face the daunting prospect of likely failing to secure a single victory. Yet, the unpredictable nature of competitive sports leaves room for unforeseen possibilities. When the crucial moment arrives, with the game's outcome resting on Greg's actions with the ball in his possession, will Greg transcend his perceived limitations and seize the opportunity, or succumb to the pressure of the decisive shot?

Naruto, Vol. 29: Kakashi vs. Itachi

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 29: Kakashi vs. Itachi. 2011. 192p. ISBN 9781421518657. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

The Akatsuki, a shadowy organization of powerful ninjas, launched their attack against the Sand Village in Naruto, Vol. 28. The intense battles escalate as Might Guy faces off against the shark-like Kisame Hoshigaki, while Kakashi Hatake, haunted by his past, confronts Itachi Uchiha, his former teammate and the brother of Sasuke. These clashes showcase the incredible skills and determination of the Leaf ninjas as they fight to protect their village and their loved ones.

Meanwhile, the fate of Gaara, the Sand Village's Kazekage, hangs in the balance. Naruto, driven by his strong bond with Gaara, learns of the Akatsuki's plans for him, realizing that he too is a target. As both Gaara and Naruto face the Akatsuki, they discover that they share a common enemy, a devious and formidable opponent who threatens not only their lives but the stability of the entire ninja world.

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 30.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 21

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 21. 2018. 202p. ISBN 9781974703937. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Yukio continues to question himself and his origins, following the revelations in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 20. A massive demonic attack on Tokyo, visible to most of the population, causes casualties and signals the beginning of an unprecedented global surge in demonic activity. As the Knights of the True Cross and the Japanese government struggle to manage the widespread chaos, Lightning's relentless investigation into the Illuminati has put immense pressure on the Knights and, more specifically, on Yukio. This mounting tension pushes Yukio to his breaking point, prompting him to confront Mephisto, desperate for the truth about his and Rin's birth.

However, Mephisto, ever the enigmatic figure, continues to manipulate events from the shadows, seemingly pulling the strings of everyone involved. Despite Yukio's urgent need for answers, the complexities surrounding his and Rin's origins, combined with Mephisto's evasiveness, indicate that simple resolutions are unlikely. Yukio faces a stark choice. Join the Illuminati to gain more knowledge and perhaps receive some answers to the questions he's been asking, or remain with his friends and his brother. Yukio makes a shocking choice!

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 22.