A Girl's List of the Top 5 Novels for Summer 2009

It seems to me that girls enjoy reading a bit more than boys do. Since I don't have any brothers I don't really know how much time boys spend reading in the summer, so I have decided to focus my list on books that I feel girls would enjoy reading. The books on this list are for young adult girls to adult women and hopefully I have included a little something for all types.

Crank by Ellen Hopkins
This is an amazing story of how a young girl, Kristina Georgia Snow, goes from model student to drug addict. Hopkins first fiction novel is an extremely easy read with a unique style of writing. This is an excellent book for young adults to read because they can relate to the pressures that Kristina is going through along with the struggle to rid herself of this "monster" she has encountered. If you like this type of book then check out the others of the same style written by Ellen Hopkins.

The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
Jeanne DuPrau invites readers into a world unlike any other. This civilization resides underground many years after the end of the human race as we knew it. This unique city, called Ember, was never meant to be permanent however the town's folk are unaware of this fact. Bad things are starting to happen, food is scarce, and the lights are in danger of going out for good. It is up to Lina Mayfleet and her friend Doon Harrow to find a way to save the people of Ember and get them out before it's too late. This book is the first in the series written by DuPrau.

Tamar by Mal Peet
Tamar isn't the type of book that everyone will like, however it is a wonderful story for those who choose to complete the journey. This book is a mixture of two stories, which are ultimately necessary to understand the whole picture. Travel back to World War II and learn what Tamar uncovers about her grandfather and her past. This story has love, jealousy, and treachery all mixed in one.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
The Book Thief is one of the best books you will ever read. The story takes place during WWII and chronicles the life of a young foster girl named Liesel Meminger. You will fall completely in love with each and every character and I guarantee that you will be rooting for things to work out for them. Be prepared to laugh and cry throughout the pages you read. Once you pick it up you will have a hard time putting it back down.

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares
More than likely you have already picked up this classic tale of 4 friends who are very different but happen to all be able to fit in this pair of jeans. If you haven't yet read The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants then summer 2009 is a great time to do so. Follow along with Lena, Tibby, Carmen, and Bridget as they face different adventure and challenges during their summer vacation. Despite the separation from each other and the challenges they must overcome, they make it through because they are all tied together by these special pair of pants.