Early Book Review: Madeline Finn and the Library Dog by Lisa Papp

Madeline Finn and the Library Dog by Lisa Papp is a picture book that is currently scheduled for release on October 1 2016. Madeline Finn DOES NOT like to read. Not books. Not magazines. Not even the menu on the ice cream truck. Fortunately, Madeline Finn meets Bonnie, a library dog. Reading out loud to Bonnie isn't so bad. When Madeline Finn gets stuck, Bonnie doesn't mind. Madeline Finn can pet her until she figures the word out. As it turns out, it's fun to read when you're not afraid of making mistakes. Bonnie teaches Madeline Finn that it's okay to go slow. And to keep trying. And to get support from a friend.

Madeline Finn and the Library Dog is a beautifully illustrated picturebook that tells the story of one young girl that does not like reading, mainly because it is a struggle for her and she does not want to be laughed at. The desire to do everything we try well, and to fit in, is universal. When Madeline gets the chance to read to a therapy dog at the library she learns that she can do it, she just has to be patient and kind to herself as her furry reading companion.A supportive audience make everything easier, and pretending to be reading to the library dog Bonnie helps Madeline conquer her fears at school. I think children can relate to Madeline even if they do not struggle with reading, but struggle instead with math, sports, or anything else.

Madeline Finn and the Library Dog is a wonderful way of showing struggling readers that they are not alone, and that they really can do it. It can also help other kids have more understanding for those that might be struggling. It would also be a good read for introducing a similar program the library. We had a dog program that was briefly a hit at our library, and would have been a long term winner if not for particular issues that had nothing to do with reading. 

Early Book Review: The Storybook Knight by Helen and Thomas Doherty

The Storybook Knight by Helen and Thomas Doherty  is a picturebook that is currently scheduled for release on October 1 2016. Even though Leo would rather sit at home and read, his parents send him out into the world to deal with a dragon, in the hopes that Leo will become a famous knight. During his journey Leo comes up against the land’s most fearsome beasts, he soon discovers that scary monsters enjoy a good book as much as he does and finds his own path to victory.

The Storybook Knight is a fun story about the power of a good story, and the wonder of reading. Leo loves reading, and would rather get lost in his books than do anything else. I can relate, and so can me kids. We would all much rather relax with a good book than go out and face the real world. What I really like about this book is that when Leo does face the world he gets to share his love of reading, and talk about stories and books with those that he meets. He does not just get to have a mental adventure, he gets to share his adventure with others, which makes it even better. Perhaps this book will not only encourage a love a books and reading, but also help get us book lovers up and sharing our favorite stories with each other!

The Storybook Knight is a wonderful story that just happens to also encourage a love a reading, books, and storytelling. A winner all around as far as I am concerned.

Helen and Thomas Docherty are the husband-and-wife author and illustrator team behind the award-winning children's picture book, The Snatchabook. They live in Bristol, England, with their two daughters. For more information, visit, thomasdocherty.co.uk. 

Book Review: The 26-Storey Treehouse by Andy Griffiths, Terry Denton, Stig Wemyss

The 26-Storey Treehouse is a children's book written by Andy Griffiths, illustrated by Terry Denton, and the audiobook is narrated by Stig Wemyss. Both formats have something to recommend them, but I will save that for the end of the review. It is also the sequel to The 13-Storey Treehouse, and while it is more fun to read in order, it is not necessary. The action and zaniness come through just fine without having read the previous book. 

This book tells the story of how Andy and Terry met, and how the pair met Jill. In the newly expanded treehouse readers are treated to the mostly true, and slightly long, story of how the treehouse came to be their home. The sharks make an appearance, as does pirate wooden head, a robot serving 78 insane ice cream flavors, a wacky nursery rhyme, and the Maze of Doom. The combination of fast action, silliness, and equally crazy illustrations (or voice acting and sound effects) come together to entertain. The interruptions of writing the next story, layered with the interruptions of the story in which they all met, come together in a larger story that will make any parent or sibling recognize their lives in the inability to finish anything uninterrupted. There is a good amount of potty humor, and some high action. Just a silly and high entertainment story perfect for reluctant and struggling readers to get them eager to keep reading.

 The 26-Storey Treehouse is even better than the first book, and made my family eager to have The 39-Storey Treehouse in their hands (and in the car CD player). They have never been so eager to get in the car to head to school or church than they are when a entertaining audiobook is in the cd-player. This is one book that had them moving at high speeds. As with the previous book, The 13-Storey Treehouse, I both read and listened to the book with my two kids. I still say that both versions are wonderful, and it comes down to personal preference and time to decide what path to take, I still so do both!

Early Book Review: Bears Make the Best Reading Buddies by Carmen Oliver, Jean Claude

Bears Make the Best Reading Buddies is a picture book written by Carmen Oliver and illustrated by Jean Claude. It is currently scheduled for release on March 1 2016. All the students in the class are assigned reading buddies, except for Adelaide. She already has a great reading buddy, a bear! Adelaide is quite persuasive as she explains to her language arts teacher and the reader, that bears really do make the best reading buddies.

Bears Make the Best Reading Buddies is a fun picture book. I never knew bears were such great reading partners, although I do not recommend anyone go out and try their hand at getting one of their own! Did you know that bears sniff out good books, or that their claws are just right for turning pages? Adelaide knows this, and tells her teacher and the readers about all the things that make her bear the best reading buddy ever. While the idea of snuggling with a bear for reading, along with although bonus features listed in the book, is terribly tempting, I think I will stick to kids and cats as my reading partners. I think the silliness will keep the target audience reading, while helping them become better reading buddies and cheerleaders for themselves and each other as they grow their reading skills.

Bears Make the Best Reading Buddies is a fun book that will encourage readers to find the perfect reading buddy, whether it is a stuffed bear, cat, dog, sibling, parent, or classmate. I do not recommend a real bear, but the book makes it temping. A fun book encouraging new readers to keep reading and growing, regardless of who their reading buddy is. 

Book Review: Swashbuckling Scoundrels: Pirates in Fact and Fiction by Arie Kaplan

Swashbuckling Scoundrels: Pirates in Fact and Fiction by Arie Kaplan is a solid introduction to the history and mythology of pirates, including those of the modern day. The book explores the world of pirates, both as real-life figures and as fictional characters. It takes on the reality of piracy and debunks some romanticized pirate myths and legends.

Swashbuckling Scoundrels: Pirates in Fact and Fiction is a solid start to the fact and fiction surrounding the popular topic of pirates. The history and myths surrounding pirates throughout history and the present day are covered. I like that the popular stories of modern day surrounding pirates is included along with the reality of both modern and historic. I think readers that love pirate stories and are looking to start researching the reality and connection between the two with find a lot of value with this book. The book is well researched and written, both informative and interested for middle grade and older readers. Readers that simply love pirates will also enjoy it, however if they have already read more than a few books on the topic there is not much new information here. 

Swashbuckling Scoundrels: Pirates in Fact and Fiction is a great introductory book about fiction and non-fiction pirates. The information is well presented and offers an interesting read for those beginning their research on the topic, although the inclusion of movie and current pirates offer some less repeated information. 

Breaking out of a Reading Slump

I read a lot. You might think that is obvious, but sometimes it needs to be said. My to be read lists and piles are monstrous, and I am also getting recommendations or seeing covers that just demand that I start reading now. That being said, I sometimes get stuck in a serious reading slump. This is when i just cannot get into a book, even one that I know I would normally enjoy, and just keep focusing my attention on other things. The worst time for this to happen (like right now) is when I have just taken inventory of everything I want or need to read and made the attempt to prioritize them.

Have you had this happen to you? It happens to me once and awhile, and I am never happy when it does. However, there are many ways to break out of a reading slump, and some work every time while others are more hit or miss for me. Please share your methods for breaking out of the slump with all of us in the comment section. I cannot be the only one this happens to right?

1. Switch reading materials. After reading a small group of books by the same author, in the same series, or that are similar in genre or format sometimes it gets to be boring, even if I know that if I picked the book fresh I would not be bored at all. I have this problem the most after binge reading a series or newly discovered author. Jumping to something completely different often helps mer get excited about my reading again.

2. Re-read a favorite or tackle a classic you have been meaning to read. When I get in a slump and cannot seem to shake it I often go back and re-read Harry Potter, To Kill a Mockingbird, or The Princess Bride. This might be the perfect time to tackle what ever book you have always wanted to read and just never got around to. 

3. Tackle a craft or new recipe. I find that picking up a non fiction book about how to do something or full up with interesting ideas that I might want to try gets me reading, even if it is for only a targeted chapter or instruction. When I need to take a reading break and nothing else has been able to catch my interest trying out a new crochet pattern or reading up on my gardening or crafting interests will get me back into the swing of things and feeling productive again.

4. Read to someone else, or listen to an audiobook. Sometimes even audiobooks do not interest me, but usually listening to a well done audio book with break my slump. It does not always happen, like just a month or so ago I was listening to an audiobook that is part of one of my favorite fluffy romance series, and I just had to shut it off. I still have not gone back to it. However, reading to my children and listening to their audiobook in the car certainly helps. 

5. Wait it out. This is never really an option for me, but sometimes it might be the best one. A little DVD binge watching, taking some time to catch up on yard work, taking a hike or drive, or what ever does have your interest at the time. Sometimes those activities will trigger a desire to read more about something you have seen, need to know, or just want to explore further. 

Early Book Review: Gryphons Aren’t So Great by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, and Andrew Arnold

Gryphons Aren’t So Great is a children's graphic novel by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, and Andrew Arnold. It is currently scheduled for release on September 8 2015. The Knight's best friend is her horse, Edward. They go everywhere together and do everything together! But when the Knight gets a gryphon, suddenly all she talks about is how awesome her new pet is. Edward can't help it, he's jealous! When the gryphon turns out to be more of a peril than a pet, and Edward comes to the rescue.

Gryphons Aren’t So Great is a cute graphic novel for the easy reader and youngest independent readers. Knight is described as a girl in the summary, but honestly there is no gender definition in the story, the Knight is just a brave kid in armor. Every reader can imagine themselves in her place. the horse, Edward is a brave partner to the knight, but feels left behind and unimportant when the gryphon and knight spend more and more time together. I think most readers (young and old) can relate to the feeling, and seeing their own experience in print will help them understand that everyone has had that experience.  It can also help them get a better grasp on their feelings and how to manager them. Beyond all that, the artwork and story are simply good, sweet fun and worth exploring.

Gryphons Aren’t So Great is the second of four adorable picture books from the creators of Adventures in Cartooning. It is a sweet and accessible story that even the youngest readers can relate to and enjoy.

Young Adult Adventure Novels: Tales of Survival and Adventure for Teen Readers

Young Adult readers have many different media sources marketing to them today. Getting them to read can become increasingly difficult if they do not already enjoy reading. Adventure and survival stories are often the genre of books that will capture the imagination and interest of the more reluctant readers of this age group. Here are five of the best adventure books to offer your reluctant teen reader.

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi offers readers a female lead on the high seas. The story that takes place during an 1802 transatlantic journey that turns mutinous and even more dangerous than expected. Thirteen-year-old Charlotte must decide whom to side with and find her courage in order to survive. This is a fantastic historical novel with a real feel for the time and place of the story as well as the emotions of the lead character. Thankfully, if your reader enjoys this book Avi is a prolific writer of quality historical and realistic fiction.

Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt is the first book in the Tillerman series. Four siblings must find a way to survive when they are abandoned by their mother in the middle of Connecticut. They struggle to find their great aunt in Bridgeport only to discover that she has past away and the home is not the safe haven that they had hoped to reach. This is a story of survival, family and discovering the history of where you have come from. If your readers enjoy this book, they can continue reading about these siblings in the six books that follow.

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen focuses of thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson. He is riding in a two person aircraft when the pilot haws a heart attack and dies. Brian must crash land the plane then survive in the Canadian wilderness alone. He must plan ahead, survive and find his way home with only the hatchet his mother gave him as a gift, a tattered windbreaker and clothing. Life and death situations are frequent and Brian discovers how to move past self-pity and survive. Paulsen is a master of description and shows his skill in Hatchet. He also wrote several other books that fans of Hatchet would enjoy, such as Dogsong.

The Island on Bird Street by Uri Orlev brings World War II to life. Alex is on his own in a ruined home in the Jewish ghetto of Warsaw. He must find a way to stay hidden and survive. The book is an easy but enthralling read that really gives readers a human connection to the holocaust. Alex is a courageous and resourceful character that holds on to his faith that his father will somehow return. The Island on Bird Street is inspiring and everyone should have an opportunity to read it. Do not cheat and just watch the movie, the book is well worth adding to your permanent collection.

The Cay by Theodore Taylor is a historical novel that tells the story of eleven-year-old Philip fleeing his home when war comes to close to comfort. The ship is torpedoed and he is left blinded from the blast and adrift with a cat and black ship hand. They eventually make it to a deserted island where Philip learns to deal with his lost eyesight and grow to realize who unimportant skin color is. Philip grows as a person and becomes able to fend for himself despite his blindness. Survival, unexpected friendship and adventure on the ocean make the book a great read for young adults especially.

Adventure Novels for Middle Grade Readers

Children between nine and twelve are a hard group to suggest books for. They are trapped in the middle of being young children and teens, and feel the challenge of trying to find their place. Books marketed to children in this group often miss the mark because they aim for minds too young or too sophisticated. Thankfully there are some great books from every genre out there for his age group, they are just a little harder to find. Here are ten of the best classic adventure books for this challenging age group.

Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George gives reader the story of an Inuit girl who leaves her people. At thirteen Miyax is an orphan and married. She is hoping to reach San Francesco but becomes lost is the tundra where she survives with the help of a wolf pack. Eventually she needs to decide if she belongs with people or wolves. The book is touching, poignant and extremely powerful. 

Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell is about twelve year old Karena who jumps from a ship to save her brother who had been left behind while the rest of her tribe is evacuated. Unfortunately he dies and she is left alone. She must fend for herself and learn how to survive by herself on the island through her determination and memories of her tribe. It was based on a true story.

My Side of the Mountain by Jean George is a story of survival and discovery. Fifteen year old Sam Gribely runs away from home to live on his own in the Catskill Mountains. He makes a home for himself and befriends animals. Sam lives the dream that most children have had at some point, and shows how hard it really is to survive in the wild. Intelligence, discipline, and determination are key aspects of Sam's survival. 

The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare shows readers the struggles of thirteen year old Matt. He is left alone to protect his family's homestead when his father travels east. After he is stung by bees he is treated and cared for by a local Native American man. To repay the kindness he teaches the man's grandson to read who in turn teaches Aaron about the wilderness. This is a story of friendship, hard choices and survival.

The Half-a-Moon Inn by Paul Fleischman is an engaging tale about a twelve year old mute boy named Aaron. He is off on a search for his mother in a blizzard but is held captive by an evil innkeeper after spending the night there. The book is suspenseful and Aaron is a proactive hero that will keep anyone reading.

Toliver's Secret by Esther Wood Brady tells the story of ten year old Ellen who disguises herself as a boy during the Revolutionary War to complete her wounded grandfather's mission. She needs to deliver a secret message George Washington to help defeat British troops. The book is a phenomenal historical novel for the age group and gives a great feel for the time period. It also helps show that sometime it is a good thing to step outside your comfort zone and do something difficult and to persevere when things do not go as planned.

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry is an adventure story set in Denmark during World War II. It is a true story interpreted by Lowry and told through the eyes of ten-year-old Annemarie Johannesenin. Annemarie and her family are doing their best to help her best friend Ellen and her family. The story moving and really gives readers a feel for the danger and trauma that the characters faced. It is even more poignant because it is based on truth. I think everyone should read this book at least once.

A Girl Named Disaster by Nancy Farmer is an adventure story about an eleven year old girl named Nhamo living in Mozambique. Circumstances force her to flee her home to escape an unhappy marriage. She starts out on a two day river voyage to her father's family in Zimbabwe, but things do not go as planned. Her journey ends up taking over a year, with Nhamo making mistakes and almost starving but ultimately surviving. The book has spiritual aspects as well as adventure and great information on cultures children might not otherwise have exposure to.

Monkey Island by Paula Fox tells readers about eleven-year-old Clay. His father loses his job and after becoming distant from his family just disappears. Soon his pregnant mother disappears as well and he is alone. Clay soon takes to the streets and finds a way to survive while searching for his mother in New York City. This is an unflinching look at the realities of urban homelessness. There might be disturbing moments for less mature readers, so I do suggest parents read first to see if it is to harsh for your readers.

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg is not about surviving in the wild or during war times. Thos adventure follows siblings Claudia and Jamie who have run away to live in an art museum. They need to find a way to avoid notice and live. They are only there a short time when they discover a mystery that needs to be solved. This Newbery Medal winner is a timeless book that can be enjoyed by boys, girls and their parents.

Science Fiction for Humor Fans

	Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut Cat's Cradle relies on a fictional technology to examine larger questions of technology, religion, militarization, and the arm's race. While comedic in tone, Cat's Cradle is also on the dark side.
	The Hitch-hiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams This is a classic science fiction comedy. It has been followed by several novels in the series, stage and radio shows, a video game, comic books, and a movie. The plot of the first book begins with the total destruction of the earth and ends at the ultimate answer to Life, the Universe and Everything, sort of.
	How to Live Safely in a Science Fictional Universe by Charles Yu A time machine repairman looks for his father, the rumored inventor of time travel, in the Science Fictional Universe Minor Universe 31 (MU31), which was only partially completed by its creator. The story explores time travel tropes as well as the deeper issues of regret, loss, and individual agency.
	Ringworld by Larry Niven A band of intergalactic and multi-species rogues crash land on Ringworld, an inhabited planet shaped like a ring, three million times the size of earth. They encounter a human-like race and are initially revered as gods before beating a hasty retreat in this fast-paced, comedic adventure. The Ringworld Series includes five novels and four prequel novels set in the same universe.
	The Stainless Steel Rat by Harry Harrison The Stainless Steel Rat and its sequels follow the Private Investigator/Con Man Slippery Jim diGriz. This irreverent, character-driven science fiction novel will also appeal to readers of the Pulp and Noir genres who connect with morally ambiguous protagonists.

Early Book Review: Ballet Cat: The Totally Secret Secret by Bob Shea

Ballet Cat: The Totally Secret Secret is the first book in a new easy reader series from Bob Shea. It is currently scheduled for release on May 5 2015. Best friends Ballet Cat and Sparkles the Pony are trying to decide what to play today. Nothing that Sparkles suggests, such as making crafts, playing checkers, or selling lemonade, goes very well with the leaping, spinning, and twirling that Ballet Cat likes to do. When Sparkles's leaps, spins, and twirls seem halfhearted, Ballet Cat asks him what's wrong. Sparkles doesn't want to say. He has a secret that Ballet Cat won't want to hear. What Sparkles doesn't know is that Ballet Cat has a secret of her own, a totally secret secret. Once their secrets are shared, will their friendship end, or be stronger than ever? 

Ballet Cat: The Totally Secret Secret is a fun new book from one of my favorite children's authors. The artwork from Shea, and the humor of the story, hold up to my expectations and result is a fun book for young readers. Ballet Cat and Sparkles are best friends, but Sparkles is afraid that if he admits to not wanting to play the same game at Ballet Cat that their friendship with end. This is something I am sure most kids can relate to- wanting to be liked by someone they like so much that they are afraid to speak their minds. Ballet Cat's answer to this fear is perfect, and charming.

I highly recommend Ballet Cat: The Totally Secret Secret to all new and developing readers. Readers that are already fans of Bob Shea's picturebooks will have a special attraction to this new series. Young readers that already love early readers like the Elephant & Piggie series from Mo Willems will also find much to love with the spunky Ballet Cat.

Audio Book Review: Fortunately, the Milk by Neil Gaiman

Fortunately, the Milk is a children's chapter book written by Neil Gaiman, and illustrated by Skottie Young. I listened to the audiobook (read by Neil himself!) but have held the paperback in my hands. the illustrations and font work in the written version is great, as are the inflections and sounds done by Mr. Gaiman in the audio version. you cannot lose regardless of format you chose!

One morning, after mother went off on a trip, it was discovered that there was no milk. No milk for breakfast cereal, or tea. So father went to the corner store to get some, and he took a very long time. On his return he explains why to his two children. It begins with: "I bought the milk," said my father. "I walked out of the corner shop, and heard a noise like this: t h u m m t h u m m. I looked up and saw a huge silver disc hovering in the air above Marshall Road. "Hullo," I said to myself. "That's not something you see every day. And then something odd happened." This father's story of time travel, dinosaurs, volcano gods, and more fill the pages of Fortunately, the Milk. It is funny, silly, and occasionally a little unnerving as one man tries to get one container of milk home to his children. And so he can have his cup of tea and read the paper of course.

Once again, Neil Gaiman proves that he cannot go wrong. Fortunately, the Milk is a fantastically fun story full of imagination and adventure. Read it, listen to it, or both. I enjoyed it in the car with my 6 and 8 year olds- I think children and adults of all ages will find humor and delight in this book.

March 20th is a Big Day!

Not only is March 20th the first day of Spring (thank goodness!) it is also the birthday of three great children's authors! Bill Martin Jr, Lois Lowry, and Louis Sachar. I think we should celebrate by reading or listening to the work of these great authors while thinking about Spring and warmer weather.. Are you in?

Bill Martin Jr has some great choices for the youngest readers!

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?

Here Are My Hands 

The Bill Martin Jr Big Book of Poetry 

Ten Little Caterpillars 

Chicka Chicka ABC

Louis Sachar is great reading for silly fun or more serious moments.

Wayside School Boxed Set 

Holes 

There's A Boy in the Girls' Bathroom 

Small Steps 

Kidnapped At Birth? 

Lois Lowry is for a more mature set.

The Giver Quartet 

The Silent Boy

Autumn Street 

Number the Stars 

A Summer to Die 

Do you have a favorite from one of these authors that I did not list? Share your favorite in the comments!

Early Book Review: Sleepless Knight by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, Andrew Arnold

Sleepless Knight by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, and Andrew Arnold is a children's graohic novel currently scheduled for release on April 14 2015. The Knight is very excited for her first camping trip. She and her horse Edward pack everything they need, including her beloved Teddy. However, when it is time to sleep Teddy is nowhere to be found! Knight goes in search of her Teddy, talking to a helpful racoon and off to a cave.

Sleepless Knight is a simple and sweet story. The Knight wants her adventure, but still needs Teddy by her side to sleep. Like most kids, she wants independence but still needs a connection to comfort. Her horse Edward seems to be the long suffering sort, ready to do whatever needs to be done, regardless of his own wants and needs. When Knight discovers that Teddy is missing she is eager to find him, but Edward is fast asleep and she depends on herself and nearby woodland critters for help. Some misadventure leads to a happy ending for everyone. The artwork is accessible and a perfect pairing to the story.

I would recommend Sleepless Knight to the youngest comic fans, as it will appeal to the picturebook and easyreader crowds. The story and artwork are appropriate for all ages, and simple good fun.

 

Book Review: I Love You Just Like This! by Lillian Jaine and Ernie Kwiat

I Love You Just Like This! is a Sesame Street picturebook by Lillian Jaine and Ernie Kwiat. This sweet book features Elmo and other favorite characters as the go through a variety of ways people can love you. 

I Love You Just Like This! is a sweet picturebook about love that also deals with the concepts of counting, colors, depth, and more. Combining some basic concept knowledge with the fun message of how much a mother lovers her child, or how much anyone can love those dear to them, is nice on several levels. The familiar characters and bright colors will capture the attention of Sesame street fans and keep it. 

I Love You Just Like This! is a well done picturebook. The concept and execution are well done, even if it is not a new concept or extremely original. It would make a good bedtime or snuggle time read with your favorite little monster. 

What Should You Read Next? Great Resources to Help Decide

I am often looking to read book by new authors or on new topics. Reviews and suggestions help, as does stopping in a library or local bookstore and browsing the shelves or asking the staff for suggestions, but sometimes I still feel at a loss. Here are some resources to help you decide what to read next.

NoveList is a resource available through public libraries to help readers find authors, titles, award winners, and author biographies. There is an author read alike search feature that allows you to search their database for authors that have similar writing styles to authors you already know and enjoy. Other services offered include book discussion guides, genre outlines to help you read more great books in your favorite genre and a popular fiction list, which gives suggested titles for just about ever genre.

BookBrowse is another reader's advisory website available for use by patrons of subscribing libraries free. Readers can search for new reads by genre, age group, geographical setting, theme and time period. Like NoveList, there is a way to search for authors that you might like based on your previous reads. 
No matter what you are looking for, be it something very specific or a vague desire for anything good, you will find suggests that meet your needs.

Overbooked is a website for readers. It specializes in literary, genre fiction information, and readable non-fiction. The site offers booklists by genre, starred review lists, author connections, and a social space for readers that often have overflowing piles of books to read but still can not stop looking for more, myself included. What I love about this website is that it is run completely by volunteers, so all reviews and suggestions come from people that truly love books and reading.

If none of these sites have helped, you find another book to read then there are still several options. Websites like Good Reads, Library Thing and Visual Bookshelf on Facebook can also help you decide what to read next based on you reading habits. Book clubs, librarians and random browsing in a library or bookstore can also yield good results. In the end, only you can decide what you like, but here are some tools to help you choose your next book, or bookshelf in my case.