Librarian: Christine Demarais, assistant youth librarian, Fletcher Free Library
Book: "The Lost Conspiracy", by Frances Hardinge
Age Range: 12 and up
Demarais' summary: Set on a tropical island with dramatic beaches and dormant volcanoes, this young-adult book features two sisters who are part of a shunned minority group. It turns out that they may also be part of the island's oracle caste, "The Lost." These individuals possess spirits with only a tenuous connection to their bodies, traveling disembodied to later report what they see and hear. The sisters, Haithin and Arilou, are unknowingly drawn into a conspiracy. They have to unravel a complicated web of lies to save themselves.
Who it's best for: Kids who like a mystery. This story involves a murder mystery with supernatural overtones.
Why parents will love it: It's an intriguing read, even for adults. "Not everything is explained right away," says Demarais, "and I had to keep turning pages to figure it out."
Woodstock, VT
Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a farmer? Kids will discover for themselves by stepping into a farmer's shoes for a week. Hands-on activities include the feeding and care of the farm's cows, horses, chickens, and sheep, learning to milk a cow, building a scarecrow for the…(more)