Wayward Bookshelf

Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan Echo is a beautifully crafted story that starts as a fairy tale, and meanders its way into a World War II era civilian setting by way of a very unique harmonica. As the harmonica changes hands, those who play it are changed too. And each character has a quality that makes them different from their peers, a birthmark, an ethnicity, etc. As they encounter challenges they find confidence and strength in their music. A wonderful, moving read for young and old alike. 

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith If possible, Jane Austen just got funnier. The original Pride and Prejudice made me laugh at her social commentary and satirical wit to no end, but add zombies to it and it reaches an entirely different level of funny. Grahame-Smith does a wonderful job at retaining Austen's flavor and wit, including many of the original passages, while adding zombies and warriors to the novel in a way that made this book laugh out loud funny.