Kiki Strike

One of my favorite reads for the summer was Kristen Miller's Kiki Strike: Inside the Shadow City. A tale of action and suspense, this book documents an ordinary 7th grader's introduction to a secret city hidden underneath the streets of New York. She soon teams up with Kiki Strike, a girl of mystery who also seems to have an interest in this Shadow City. The two go on to recruit a team of delinquent Girl Scouts, each with their own special talents. This group, known as the Irregulars, seeks to map out and control the Shadow City - as well as protect it from those who would use it for evil. Filled with advice on how to kick butt, enough intrigue to keep you on the edge of your seat, and some beautifully drawn characters who are each strong in their own way, this book is high on my list of all-time favorites. A sequel is also available: Kiki Strike: The Empress's Tomb.

Overall Grade: A+



If you are a fan of the quirky and unusual, you may be interested in a blog kept by Kiki Strike author Kristen Miller. Ananka's Diary is updated almost daily with images and stories of the strange and bizarre, ranging from urban legends to weird inventions and, of course, underground cities. Check it out if you have the chance!