God of The Woods by Liz Moore 5 Stars

In the summer of 1975, Barbara Van Laar, a resident at an Adirondack Camp that her family owns, goes missing. Fourteen years earlier, Bear Van Laar, the bright, charming son of the same owners, disappeared there without a trace. The stunned rural community questions how the only two Van Laar children could vanish in similar ways! Both were trained in woodcraft to keep them safe while exploring the massive property that surrounds the camp.

State troopers are called in, among them Judyta, the only woman on the force. Her ability to look beyond the obvious proves extremely effective, as she interviews, not only the family but the camp staff, as well. The Van Laars remain aloof, limiting their contact with the searchers and the police. Alice Van Laar, trapped in an unhappy marriage, has become an alcoholic, which insulates her reaction to the loss of her children. Lastly, add to this cocktail of mystery and suspense, a murderer has escaped from prison and may be in the area.

This novel, which spans decades and generations, centers around a particular Adirondack Camp, its owners and directors. Both of whom, retain equal but disparate claim, to the unspoiled woodlands. Told from multiple viewpoints and a number of historical perspectives, the story gradually unfolds. Set against the brooding forest of the Adirondacks, this book doesn’t let go until the final page!

Do-It-Yourself Dollhouse by Shannon Anderson 5 Stars

Charley receives a gorgeous dollhouse from her mom, that has everything she could possibly want. Her friend, Lucy, is making her own dollhouse, spending hours finding just the right things to convert into furniture and accessories. When Charley gets bored with the static arrangement of her commercially made dollhouse, Lucy introduces her to a whole new way of thinking! The purchase of a new washer and dryer at Charley’s house increase the excitement when both girls envision a new use for the boxes.

A wonderfully refreshing look at play! Lucy’s “Someday Maybe” box strikes a chord, I, also am the proud possessor of a “Someday Maybe” box and I wouldn’t be without it! Kids and teachers will find a host of ideas here! The illustrations are bright and engaging. Round faced little girls with expressive faces and body language lend a joyful note to the book. Lucy’s vivid imagination will spark kids to start their own projects. Discussion questions and websites with kid friendly crafts are a plus! Overall, an excellent purchase for families, schools, and libraries!

The Center of the Universe by Ria Voros 5 Stars

G. G. Carter, a wife and mother, mysteriously disappears, after taking a phone call at her daughter Grace’s Space Club presentation. A well-known TV anchor, G. G.’s kidnapping makes front page news for weeks with little progress in finding her. Grace’s flamboyant grandmother arrives, at first more of a hindrance than a help. Neighbors pile the family’s freezer with lasagna, while fans flood the house with flower arrangements. Grace finds solace in her best friend Iris, her beloved telescope, and in an unexpected new relationship.

A tense look at a Canadian family in the midst of crisis. This fast read will have readers hanging on every word. The characters are at once endearing and authentic. The constant tug-a-war between Grace and her mother is so normal, yet frustrating. Grace’s dad is patient and loving but having trouble holding his family together on his own. I loved this book! It is exactly the type of YA novel that works so well in Book Discussion Groups: high interest and fast moving. I will look for more books by this author!