A Confusion of Princes

A Confusion of Princes  by Garth Nix

audiobook read by Michael Goldstrom

Khemri tells the story of the three times he has died, and the time in-between those deaths.

Born a Prince in an intergalactic empire that identifies millions of princes as possible heirs to the ruling Emperor, Khemri's first challenge after emerging from a sheltered childhood is to survive the assassination attempts by other potential heirs.  His early training and biological enhancements make him "better than human," but it takes hostile aliens, rocketship battles, cybernetic gadgetry and a pretty naval reserve officer from a backwater fringe planet to teach Khemri how to be human.

With many nods to classic science fiction traditions in literature (Robert A Heinlein, Andre Norton and Isaac Asimov are obvious influences) and film (Star Wars, 2001, and many others), this rousing space-opera will appeal to readers who like a lot of action, a little introspection, and a touch of romance (and a few incidences of Star Trek sex as well--how appropriate!) 

The book--and the audiobook--are highly recommended for readers ages 12 to adult.  

The Wells Bequest

The Wells Bequest  by Polly Shulman

The New York Circulating Materials Repository is back!  This library doesn't just lend out books.  It also lends out significant (and sometimes magical) objects found in books and stories.  In The Grimm Legacy (2010), we learned that the Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm collected more than just fairy tales--they also collected magic carpets, talking mirrors, and many other objects found inside the stories.  

Now, NYCMR head library page Jaya and new-hire Leo explore the contents of the Wells collection: powerful objects straight out of classic science fiction novels.  These include robots, rockets, submarines, a shrink ray and, of course, a time machine.  When another library page threatens to destroy New York with Nicola Tesla's death ray, Leo and Jaya must use the time machine and their own wits (and knowledge of literature) to preserve history.

Delightful, fluffy fiction for book lovers and library geeks.  No sex, cussing, or bloodshed.  A few kisses, a little bit of romance, and a lot of fun.  

Recommended for readers ages 12 to adult.