Such an interesting premise! A girl unlocks the 13th zodiac sign by mistake, and since there are now 13 signs in a year, everyone's personality changes. But the book then turns into a video game when the girl has to battle and defeat all 12 real zodiac signs. Too bad. ( )

At the beginning of THE 13TH SIGN, Jalen doesn't believe in astrology's impact on human's lives; however, she's forced to reassess that belief when she unwittingly unlocks the 13th sign of the zodiac, Ophiuchus, and causes the personalities of everyone to change. Those changes will become permanent unless Jalen--with the help of two friends and a few other interested parties--wins challenges against the other 12 signs of the zodiac to send them back to the heavens where they belong.

Kristin O'Donnell Tubb has written a fast-paced middle grades adventure that will appeal to both boys and girls. There's so much to like about this book: Jalen is a smart heroine, and Tubb includes positive lessons that are sprinkled throughout the tale with such subtlety, young readers may not know they're learning anything as they read. The action scenes are continuous and written well, and the character descriptions are vivid.

Finally, I've been known to buy a book only for the cover in the past, and this one is gorgeous! ( )

On her thirteenth birthday, Jalen unwittingly brings the twelve signs of the zodiac to life through a mysterious old book, and soon she, her friend Ellie, and Ellie's brother, Brennan, are battling in the streets of New Orleans to defeat the twelve and their little-known companion before time runs out. ( )

The 13th Sign

Although I’m not much of a fantasy fan, I’m a huge fan of allegories or messages firmly planted at the heart of a story, which is why I so enjoyed The 13th Sign. There is little preparation needed or taken as the story takes off immediately of a young lady who’s mistake causes mayhem among the zodiac, and thus all mankind.

The story is fueled by the suspense of waiting to see what the next sign will be, what will it take to overcome each challenge, and what attributes will each zodiac have. All of this happens with a ticking clock that will make all personality changes permanent.

The message at the story’s heart is a wonderful destination, and adds to the journey’s enjoyment. It is one I’m glad I got to make. ( )

Put it on my Will-finish-next-time shelf. :- Can't get into it.