Challenge: 50 Books discussion

1 - The Running Man by Michael Gerard Bauer

Joseph is a 14-year-old boy who lives with his mother. His father works away from home for long periods of time. His neighbor, Tom Leyton, is a recluse who lives with his sister, Caroline. After Joseph happens to mention to Caroline that he must do a portrait for a school art assignment, she suggests he do one of her brother. Thus begins the tenuous relationship between Joseph and Tom.

Joseph is nervous about meeting this man about whom he has heard numerous rumors. But as he spends time with Tom, Joseph begins to draw him out, and Joseph learns how others may deal with their fears and regrets, including himself.

And so the metamorphosis begins, not only for the silkworms that Tom raises, but for himself and Joseph.

This is "teen lit", so as an adult you may see where this story is going, but the ending may not be how you expect it; the writing is superb and the relationship between Joseph and Tom draws you in.

2 - The Chosen Soul by Heather Killough-Walden

This is a fantasy novel about a young woman who was born under mysterious circumstances along with her twin brother. When she comes of age she discovers that she has strange powers. It is a story of good and evil with some romance.
Not the greatest writing, okay story. This is book one in a series, but I didn't get drawn into the characters so I probably won't be looking for the next installment. (It was a cheap Nook book)