Ghost

Ghost by Jason Reynolds, 181 pages.
A very good story of a young man who finds his way in the world through track. Ghost remembers running from his father when he was young, but he doesn't realize that running is something that he is good at, and that it can help him, for quite a while. Once he does discover this and finds a place on a good track team, he puts his new-found place in jeopardy with some questionable decisions. I first heard about this when it was recommended by Jacqueline Woodson on PBS last year, and then at the American Library Association conference, Jason Reynolds was everywhere, and the lines were long. So, he's a force in YA literature.

The Snowman / Jo Nesbo 384 p.

I had a long wait for this one, but it was well worth it. Nesbo gives us another creepy, improbable and occasionally slightly funny murder mystery. Norway's first official serial killer challenges Harry by killing married women with children, and leaving behind hideous snowmen at the crime scenes. He uses one of the most unusual murder weapons I've heard of, provides plenty of false trails, and sets up a spectacular final showdown. I'm reluctant to give much away, but I have to believe that Nesbo has a bit of a laugh with some of this. The plot is intricate and Nesbo gives out just enough clues to tease you along. Harry continues to struggle with alcohol and romantic relationships and remains (for me) less sympathetic than Mankell's Kurt Wallander, but he's still lots of fun.