Weregirl

All high school junior Nessa Kurland wants is a cross-country scholarship to college in order to escape her small Michigan town. When she’s bitten by a wolf while trying to rescue it from a trap, she thinks her season is over; instead, she heals abnormally quickly and becomes faster and stronger. Soon Nessa discovers the awful truth: she has become a werewolf and must hide this new condition from the world while still pursuing her dreams. When she discovers that the powerful corporation that all but rules her town is hiding deep secrets, she becomes determined to get to the truth. This urban fantasy adventure, first in a planned series (and the first “linear” story from the publisher famous for its bestselling Choose Your Own Adventure books), introduces some intriguing elements, but in general this take on werewolves and evil corporations doesn’t stray too far from well-traveled paths. Written pseudonymously by a creative team that includes author Cathleen Davitt Bell, it’s a solid story with engaging characters, but it adds little to a crowded genre. Ages 12–up. (Nov.)