The real value in our Book Shop is that we've narrowed down the field...significantly. Everything listed below was either read by us or one of our valued contributors. Through our site, by clicking the book title, you will be linked directly with Amazon.com. Once there, you will have access to even more reviews and details about any of the books we've recommended.

Peer Power: Preadolescent Culture and Identity - Patricia A. Adler and Peter Adler

Why we like it: The book offers an in-depth observation and study of the impact of group dynamics in relation to adolescent development.

Odd Girl Out: The Hidden Culture of Aggression in Girls - Rachel Simmons

Why we like it: A realistic look at the hidden culture of silent and indirect aggression among girls.

Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys - Dan Kindlon and Michael Thompson

Why we like it: A reassessment of an often too-narrow definition of masculinity that helps us help our boys become more emotionally literate.

Rome (Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guides) - DK Publishing

Why we like it: A small book that's well organized and easy to carry around. Perfect for the traveler that has a limited amount of time to research a trip.

Thankfully, we have a fairly extensive network of tweens and parents of tweens! As a result, we've been keeping track of some of the books favored for this age group. We've also combed periodicals and librarian-type resources to come up with a list of recommendations. Can anyone have too many books? We think not. Save the landfill, buy a book for your favorite tween!

The Wednesday Wars - Gary Schmidt

Why we like it: A comic tale of a 12-year-old Long Island boy growing up in the Vietnam era. Ages 9-13

It's So Amazing - Robie H. Harris

Why we like it: Answers questions about sex, reproduction and love. This book is age appropriate and light hearted. Ages 7 and up

The Thief Lord - Cornelia Funke

Why we like it: Orphans Prosper and Bo run away to Venice and live with a band of loyal street kids. Ages 9-12

A Single Shard - Linda Sue Park

Why we like it: A carefully crafted novel based in the 12th century that tells the tale of a Korean orphan and his quest to become an apprentice of a master potter. Ages 9-12