Web Smarts

www.ala.org/yalsa

What: The American Library Association's site for young readers, which features information on Teen Read Week (Oct. 15 to 21).

BEST POINTS: Young people can read and write book reviews on a number of topics and authors. Some of those posted include reviews for "The Horse Whisperer," by Nicholas Evans and "The Hunt for Red October," by Tom Clancy. (Both are positive.) Teens can also cast their vote for the best book this year or discuss books they like and dislike with peers in online chat forums.

There are recommended book lists, links to other young-adult reading sites, and tips on how to fit reading into a busy schedule. Teens can also peruse information on political activism, arts and entertainment, library home pages, and sports.

The Teen Hoopla section hosts discussions on nonreading subjects such as dress codes, driving, school violence, and self-esteem.

What YOU NEED TO KNOW: The Young Adult Library Services Association, a division of the ALA, promotes reading across the United States, and it aims to provide young people with access to books and resources.

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