In My Mailbox (15)

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren.

For Review:

A Banquet for Hungry Ghosts by Ying Chang Compestine (HC/October 2009/Henry Holt)

According to Chinese tradition, those who die hungry or unjustly come back to haunt the living. Some are appeased with food. But not all ghosts are successfully mollified. In this chilling collection of stories, Ying Chang Compestine takes readers on an exhilarating journey through time and across different parts of China. Hungry ghosts have prevailed - from the building of the Great Wall in 200 B.C.E. to the modern day of iPods - and continue to torment those who wronged them.

At once a window into the history and culture of China and an ode to Chinese cuisine, this assortment of frightening tales - complete with historical notes and savory recipes - will both scare and satiate.

I received this from the Henry Holt InGroup. I absolutely love anthologies and short story collections, so I'm excited for this one!


Tangled by Carolyn Mackler
(ARC/Releases December 2009/Harper Teen)

Jena, Dakota, Skye, and Owen are all at Paradise - a resort in the Caribbean, that is - for different reasons, but in Paradise their lives become tangled together in ways none of them can predict. The week might take Jena on kiss closer to having a life; set Dakota on a new path; push Skye to stop playing a role, or face the consequences; or inspire Owen to take a leap from his online life to a real one, all because of a girl he met in Paradise. Whatever happens here, it will change them all.

Yay! I'm so excited for this one. Carolyn Mackler's publicist was kind enough to send me a copy. Thank you very much!


Friends Forever by Mary Ann McRaney
(PB/March 2009/Xulon Press)

One dark night, ten-year-old Cassie Bennett cried out to God to send an angel to help her. Neglected by her alcoholic mother and excluded at school by her schoolmates, Cassie desperately needs a best friend. Her cry for help brings a young angel to earth on her first assignment. As the story unfolds, Gabriella encourages Cassie to rise above her circumstances, conquer her fear, and let her light shine. Along the way, Gabby manages to help her friend resolve several issues including a school bully and a spoiled little rich girl. But the biggest challenge the girls face is the pedophile, who has just moved in the apartment complex and befriended Cassie's mother. Standing up to evil is not easy, but with Gabby's help Cassie learns to do just that. Their friendship transcends a tragedy, and the two girls remain "friends forever."

Sounds good to me! I received this for review from ReaderViews. Thanks


My Beauty by Marlene Wallach
(Spiral Bound/August 2009/Aladdin)

Want flawless skin and a perfect smile? Although no one's perfect, Wilhelmina Kids & Teens modeling agency president Marlene Wallach will let you in on all the secrets you need to look your very best. From getting a really great haircut to finding the ultimate lipgloss, Marlene's tips make polishing your natural beauty simple and easy so that all the best things about you shine through. Packed with fun quizzes; spa treatments; interviews with beauty industry insiders such as celebrity dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad and makeup artist Paula Dorf; and more, My Beauty will help you discover your unique dazzle, whether on the runway, in the classroom, or on the soccer field.

I received this for review from ReaderViews. Thanks!

From PaperBack Swap:

Converting Kate by Beckie Weinheimer

Teach Me by R.A. Nelson

I'm super happy with the books I got this week! How'd everyone else do?