Notes from a Totally Lame Vampire

Gr 6—9—In many ways, Nigel is your average teenage boy next door. He spends most of his time worrying about getting a girlfriend, fitting in, and dealing with acne. But things are even more complicated for him since he is also a vampire. Transformed by a couple who wanted children, Nigel must spend the rest of his life as a 15-year-old. That wouldn't be so bad if he were a vampire like Emmett or Edward Cullen, but he lacks their good looks, supernatural strength, and great sex appeal. Instead he is boring and unattractive, and suffers from acne breakouts when exposed to the sun. Then Nigel falls head over heels for the new girl in school. Now he spends his time plotting ways to get Chloe to notice he's "alive" while writing pathetic poetry declaring his love. Originally published in Great Britain as Diary of a Wimpy Vampire, this book has a witty, laugh-out-loud story line and cartoon illustrations that are liberally sprinkled throughout. Readers will sympathize with Nigel and his teen angst, and the great ending makes this a satisfying and entertaining read.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY