Demon Derby

June 1, 2014
A resolutely tough cancer survivor winds up battling more than just the opposing team when she goes out for roller derby and comes face to face with supernatural enemies in this fast-paced, often funny offering about demon hunters.In remission from leukemia, ninjutsu black belt Casey still struggles with the fear that she may not be able to rely on her body and with her family and friends' sharpened concern for her health. When a strange figure whose eyes seem to burst into flame attacks her at a party, her panic that she is hallucinating spurs her to go out for the Apocalypsies, a roller derby team, to prove that she's as strong as ever. There is plenty to keep readers engaged here, including creepy demons of all descriptions and Casey's swoon-worthy love interest, Michael, who quickly brings her up to speed regarding the rules of demon hunting. Casey herself is a likable narrator, able to catch her own mistakes and self-aware enough to know that feeling vulnerable makes her angry and that she channels that anger outward to cope with it. Both the descriptions of the derby tryouts and the details of demon hunting seem a bit overcomplicated at times, but they don't diminish the overall appeal of the book.A paranormal adventure with both style and heart (on wheels). (Paranormal romance. 12-18)

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June 1, 2014

Gr 8 Up-Casey is not your average high schooler. For one thing, she's a freerunner and ninjutsu expert. She also had been homeschooled the past year due to her hospitalization for leukemia. Even before she survived cancer, Casey went through life as a fighter, and is now battling to earn a spot on her local roller derby team after two of the members died in a mysterious car accident. After a freak encounter with a stranger in an alley, the teen is introduced to the world of demon-hunters by the hunky derby-team manager, Michael. Together they work to rid their community of demons before their souls get captured. A fun read, especially when the pace picks up after Michael's identity is revealed. Casey is a well-developed heroine who calls herself "the girl who picks fights with death." An obvious plot twist and some disconnect between actions and responses make for a predictable and choppy story line. Overall, the narrative is entertaining with elements of the paranormal and a cast of unique supporting characters.-Stephanie DeVincentis, Downers Grove North High School, IL

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2014
Grades 8-11 Casey thought beating cancer would be the biggest challenge of her life, but that was before roller derby tryouts. She is in remission and misses days filled with skateboard and parkour sessions, so she tags along with her best friend to tryouts for the Apocalypsies and surprises everyone by landing a position as team alternate. An added bonus is the attention of coach Michael, whose unbelievably good looks are explained when he reveals he is not exactly human. Recruited for her lightning-fast reflexes and uncanny ability to fight demons, Casey is soon training with Michael to be the ultimate blocker, both on the derby track and against an endless onslaught of evil beings. Readers will find plenty of laughs in this fast-paced horror comedy. The heavy focus on action and witty banter doesn't leave much room for character development, but Casey is likable and fun, and her illness adds a layer of empathy. Give this to Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans and readers who like their horror with a big dose of snark.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)