Wednesday, March 30, 2016

A new student review of Wonder Woman at Super Hero High by Lisa Yee

Madiinfl posted a new student review of Wonder Woman at Super Hero High by Lisa Yee. See the full review.

I am a fan of DC comics, and I enjoyed the references to many DC characters.  There were many that made an appearance in this book!  This made the story very exciting for me. 

I loved that Wonder Woman seemed to have a lot of the same issues in school that I do.  At school she has to deal with mean girls, peer pressure, odd teachers, parental pressure, and social media.

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

A new student review of The Silver Strand - Book 1 in the Mastermind Academy series by LJ Clarkson

Anjel posted a new student review of The Silver Strand - Book 1 in the Mastermind Academy series by LJ Clarkson. See the full review.

This was an interesting book. It focused on Isabelle's self-discovery in a unique setting--a fantasy realm hidden within the existing world.

My favorite part was when Belle received a letter at the end, detailing her future at the academy. The strand in Belle’s hair was funny when it sprouted, and it was amusing when she wished it gone. The author blended adventure and comedy perfectly.

I would recommend this book to students ages 10-12, fantasy lovers, and young readers looking for an adventurous and comedic book. I would also recommend this book to fans of Brandon Mull, author of the Candy Shop Wars.

Friday, March 25, 2016

A new student review of The History Major by Michael Phillip Cash

JesusFreak posted a new student review of The History Major by Michael Phillip Cash. See the full review.

When this book arrived in the mail, I was surprised by how small it was. At only 140 pages, it was quite a swift read. Usually, short books aren’t my cup of tea, but The History Major ​was an exception. The first thing to note was the gorgeous book cover. Although very simple, bursts of colors compliment grayer tones nicely.

The writing style that the author implemented in this story was different from a lot of young adult books I’ve read. The author’s words didn't make the reader feel stupid or juvenile, like some young teen books do.

At times, I found it hard to relate to the main character and found the side characters could be insulting. However, this may have been the author’s objective, in which case he executed it well.

Another thing I liked about this book was the plotline. Although slightly hard to follow at times, it was a very interesting plot that I was greatly invested in.

With an intriguing plot and unique writing style, The History Major by Michael Phillip Cash is sure to impress.

Thursday, March 24, 2016

A new student review of The Hunt for the Missing Spy by Penny Warner

ethanlax posted a new student review of The Hunt for the Missing Spy by Penny Warner. See the full review.

The Hunt For The Missing Spy (The Code Busters Club Series)  is a great action novel with many crossroads and codes to decipher. One thing I liked about this book was that it sort of taught you many different codes from different times and countries. Another thing I liked about the book was that it was very creative, with great writing and ideas. There is one thing I didn’t really like about the book, which was that at some points it did not quite make sense. I give this book a four star rating and recommend it for ages 8-12. I also recommend this to all readers who want an interesting and mysterious book. Have a great time reading this novel!

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

A new student review of Zero by Tom Leveen

Melissa32301 posted a new student review of Zero by Tom Leveen. See the full review.

Throughout the book Tom Leveen makes his readers think that Zero is an overweight teenager, until she meets Mike and we discover she was just wearing really big clothes and thought she was fat. By making us think she was overweight, we could relate to her even more. Not only did she hate most of her artwork, she also hated herself. People who struggle with the way they look would read this book and realize they are not what they see. Mike was a very good guy for Zero. He showed her she was beautiful and made her more confident with herself and her art. 

A new student review of Shades of Blue by Joyce Scarbrough

CalMarie posted a new student review of Shades of Blue by Joyce Scarbrough. See the full review.

In a fast-paced series of events, Joyce Scarbrough writes a beautiful story about the troubles of adolescent kids getting a taste of the real world. The plot is well-structured in a detailed exposition and rising action. The climax and resolution were rushed and vague on details explaining the events playing out. Small scenes that foreshadowed important events should have more detail that gives the reader better comprehension of the plot without relaying too much information. The story was very interesting and addressed topics engaging to a wide range of readers.

 

Tuesday, March 22, 2016

A new student review of Hamster Princess: Of Mice and Magic by Ursula Vernon

Jowill posted a new student review of Hamster Princess: Of Mice and Magic by Ursula Vernon. See the full review.

I am a big fan of the Dragonbreath series, so I was really excited to read this book! It looked like it was geared more for girls and many would think the Dragonbreath series is for boys.  I like them both!

I thought this book was extremely amusing!  I enjoyed the character of Harriet.  She is funny, brave and has a great attitude! 

This book has wonderful illustrations that help keep the reader interested.  I would recommend it for anyone who likes books like Dragonbreath or Babymouse.

Monday, March 21, 2016

A new student review of Under a Purple Moon by Beverly S. McClure

Melissa32301 posted a new student review of Under a Purple Moon by Beverly S. McClure. See the full review.

This book shows the mental psyche of teenagers with deep emotions. McClure shows that "family" doesn't have to mean blood, it means love. Eden, Murphy, Toby, and Josh help each other get through their home lives by being there for each other and they get each other through each day. Sadly, a lot of kids go through constant fighting between their parents and this novel will allow people who don't go through this to see a perspective on what it's like.  The story also shows how people who do go through difficult home situations can have hope. It shows them that they'll be okay. The four teens that meet at this abandoned house aren't just there for each other but they're there for the readers too. 

 

 

 

 

A new student review of The Bolds by Julian Clary

masongill posted a new student review of The Bolds by Julian Clary. See the full review.

The Bolds is a pretty good book. The story is a quick-paced read and very funny. My favorite character was Mr. McNumpty because I could not figure out if he was a good guy or a bad guy untill the end.  And the ending was a very good suprise. The things I liked about this book was that the author did a good job of making the hyenas seem like real people and did not make them different from the other characters.  I thought that the jokes and humor in the book was engaging. My only suggestion would be that I would have loved to get to the "big problem" earlier in the book.

Thursday, March 17, 2016

A new student review of Mind Over Bullies - A MOB Forms by D.K. Smith

Lcat1427 posted a new student review of Mind Over Bullies - A MOB Forms by D.K. Smith. See the full review.

Overall I would give this book four out of five stars. I loved the way Smith lured me in, making it impossible to put the book down. He is a beautiful writer, creating a milieu of the modern day high school, something I could relate to. I was easily able to connect with the characters and put myself in their shoes, making the book much more enjoyable. The only downside to this book was the counterfeiting addition. It was difficult to follow along when the chapters changed from Margo's viewpoint to the facilitators of the counterfeiting. In the end, I would recommend this book to anyone ages 12 and up.  

 

A new student review of Sidekicks by Linda Palmer

Sweetfable posted a new student review of Sidekicks by Linda Palmer. See the full review.

I really enjoyed reading this book and was entertained the whole way through. There were many aspects of this novel that were really well done. This includes the relationships, and I was excited to see how each character developed. I connected with Mia, despite our differences, as she is still very relatable. I enjoyed the pacing of the novel, which never felt rushed or too slow. The writing was also fantastic, so I never became bored. I recommend this novel for anyone looking for an amazing, quick read that is full of romance and suspense.

A new student review of The Liberation by Marissa Shrock

JesusFreak posted a new student review of The Liberation by Marissa Shrock. See the full review.

When I started reading this book, I had no idea that it was actually a sequel until I reached the author’s acknowledgements at the end. I was glad to see that even though I didn’t read the first book, the descriptions in the sequel were so informative that I wasn’t confused at all. I was also quite surprised that it was a faith-based book. The majority of young adult novels aren’t faith-based, so this was an interesting and pleasant change of course from most YA books.


The plot was what first got me interested in this book. Any novel that has a dystopian universe grabs my attention, as it is my favorite genre. From start to finish, this story was an exciting, heart-pounding adventure that never lost my interest. It especially ramped things up in the last few chapters, in which I was eager to read word after word until the epic finale.


The protagonist, Vivica, was a very intriguing character to read. The way the author wrote her made her lifelike and believable. I felt her struggles as if I was right alongside her in the novel.


With non-stop action and excellent writing, The Liberation is sure to impress.

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

A new student review of Cameo by Tanille Edwards

leah0304 posted a new student review of Cameo by Tanille Edwards. See the full review.

This book was hard to follow because so many things were going on at once. Not only did the plot move quickly, but the characters were introduced in a confusing way. In some parts of the book, everybody was talking at once and I couldn't keep up with the fast pace. The storyline of this book was very confusing; therefore, I don’t recommend reading this novel. The author could have done a better job developing the characters, such as Nia. I didn't really feel connected to the book as well as I would have liked.

A new student review of City of the Yeti by Robert Love

moseso posted a new student review of City of the Yeti by Robert Love. See the full review.

This book was a wonderful tale about ancient, not-so-human creatures. The beginning of the book started off a bit slow without much action, but this allowed room for introducing the characters. Although the main character, Danny, was 14, the author made him come across as younger and naive. A strong secondary character was Danny’s sister, Rachel. The book never says how old she was, but her character was developed extraordinarily well, and she came across as being close to Danny’s age.

 

Once the plot got moving, the author kept my attention with one exciting twist after another. Though slightly predicable, the climax of the story was excellent and wrapped up the story well. 

 

I really enjoyed how the author threw in a "family feud" scenario. This book had several surprises that were enjoyable to read. Overall, the story was well written and kept my attention all the way through.

A new student review of Sinners, Survivors and Saints by N.D. Richman

nictaf posted a new student review of Sinners, Survivors and Saints by N.D. Richman. See the full review.

N.D. Richman has done it again. He has expertly crafted this novel and exceeded my high expectations set by book one! The plot was very fast-paced throughout. This series is getting better book by book; I cannot wait for the third installment!

One exceptional aspect of the story was that the boys were willing to face death to save their friend.

The characters were extremely well-developed, had great expressions, were very passionate about what they were doing, and had great courage in the face of danger. I would recommend this book to ages 12 and up because it includes some death and killing.

A new student review of Brothers, Bullies and Bad Guys by N.D. Richman

nictaf posted a new student review of Brothers, Bullies and Bad Guys by N.D. Richman. See the full review.

I think N.D. Richman wrote an excellent book; it was full of twists and turns. Throughout the book I didn't know what was going to happen, and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the way N.D. Richman worked the themes of family and friendship into the story. I would love to read additional titles from him. The characters were highly-developed, and the plot was well-described. I absolutely loved this book!

One of the best described parts of ​Brothers, Bullies and Bad Guys was this section: “Chris's brain felt like an ice pack, and his muscles and bones ached with cold. If he moved, they would snap in two, like a Popsicle slammed into a counter.”

I can't think of anything that could make this book any better! I would recommend it to students ages 12 and up because there is some death.

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

A new student review of After Me by Joyce Scarbrough

tlang posted a new student review of After Me by Joyce Scarbrough. See the full review.

After reading the first chapter, I knew that I would fall in love with this story. I was right. This book is filled with action: Jada breaking the arm of the school's best football player, Jada fighting against a group of boys from the school bus with her bare arms, and Jada helping her new friend, Annalee, escape from her mom's horrifying boy friend.

I enjoyed Jada's relationship with her new foster family (they treated her way better than Jada's old mother ever treated her) and Jada's new relationships with the friends she made.

This book has a cute storyline and enough twists and plots which makes it into a young adult book.

Monday, March 14, 2016

A new student review of The Dragon Round by Stephen S. Power

jotaf posted a new student review of The Dragon Round by Stephen S. Power. See the full review.

I thought this book was great.  It had me hooked from the very beginning and didn’t let me go until the epic conclusion.  Even then, it left me wanting more, and I hope that there will be another book.  The author, Stephen S. Power, gave the characters very realistic traits.  One of the most prevailing traits in some of the characters was revenge, which you can easily associate with some people’s natures (although not to this degree).  I must admit, when I first saw the description of the book, I had thought it a wild combination, but the author makes it all work together perfectly.  This book will appeal to many readers as it has the aspects of a murder mystery, a swashbuckling adventure, and a vengeance story all rolled into one that make it an amazing read.

Saturday, March 12, 2016

A new student review of All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

Melissa32301 posted a new student review of All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven. See the full review.

All the Bright Places is a very emotional book. I fell in love with the characters within the first chapter. Niven did a great job describing people with mental illnesses. She made the characters relatable and realistic. At some points in the book I felt like I was with them. Some parts of the book were confusing, which might have been the point. Niven might have wanted the readers to come up with their own ideas, but I didn’t exactly like that. If she would’ve made it more understandable, it would’ve helped make the story better. The confusion within the characters helped to show that even people with mental illnesses don’t know what they have. Overall, it was a great book with relatable characters and new friendships.

Thursday, March 10, 2016

A new student review of Certain Poor Shepherds: A Christmas Tale by Elizabeth Marshall Thomas Elizabeth Marshall Thomas

moseso posted a new student review of Certain Poor Shepherds: A Christmas Tale by Elizabeth Marshall Thomas Elizabeth Marshall Thomas. See the full review.

Animal perspectives always make for a interesting sort of tale. The viewpoint that was presented was different and unique in a charming, animal way. Despite being a dog and a goat, the author did a wonderful job of introducing and developing the characters in the story. 

 

One confusing part in the story was when the author introduced angels who seemed to have come from a long journey. They arrived and played with and fed the animals. Angels frequently fill the story, and only the animals can see them. The tale also failed to come across as a nativity story. The only time the nativity story is mentioned is when one of the animals is in the stable, looking down on baby Jesus. 

 

A surprising part in the story, which I enjoyed, was toward the end when Ima and Lila are captured. At the camp, Lila demonstrates friendship and love to another dog by sharing her meals. Lila’s backstory, although sad, is interesting and gives the readers something to ponder.

 

Geared towards younger readers and those with a love for animals, Certain Poor Shepherds is a book partly about the nativity story but mostly about the character’s relationship presented from an animal’s point of view.   

 

Wednesday, March 09, 2016

A new student review of The Tale of Cloran Hastings by Brandon M. Dennis

Inferna101 posted a new student review of The Tale of Cloran Hastings by Brandon M. Dennis. See the full review.

Overall it is a good story. Worth reading if you're lacking material. However it is very slow and dragging. It took me more than half the book to really get into it. To want to turn the page. The rising action was basically me asking, "Are we there yet?" every time the boat stopped. The ending however, was very well done. I am not an emotional person with books or movies, but the last couple of chapters made my eyes a bit more watery than usual. The ending is worth it If you have nothing else to read, however if you do have something else to read, read the something else first.

Tuesday, March 08, 2016

A new student review of The Gift by Rebecca J. Hubbard

cowboys1 posted a new student review of The Gift by Rebecca J. Hubbard. See the full review.

I felt this book was well written and would be a good story for anyone under the age of 10.  I am 11 years old and I felt that Pip was really annoying.  She acted much younger than the 11 year olds that I know.  It would have been better if Pip was more around the age of 8 or so.

I really enjoyed the second part of the book though.  Reading about the same experiences but getting an understanding about how the horse perceived the moment was really cool!  The author obviously knows a lot about horses and how they behave.

A new student review of Halfway Home: Drawing My Way Through Japan by Christine Mari Inzer

Balchc posted a new student review of Halfway Home: Drawing My Way Through Japan by Christine Mari Inzer. See the full review.

In my opinion, This book is wonderful but I recommend this book for people older than 12
due to certain topics and words. I loved this book because I actually felt some kind of connection with the author.  I liked how this book had multiple topics - not just just focusing on one theme or subject. This book has something in it for everyone. At sometimes this book can be funny but at other times more serious.

A new student review of After Me by Joyce Scarbrough

schosgej posted a new student review of After Me by Joyce Scarbrough. See the full review.

I really enjoyed this book, it is an amazing escape from reality. Jada’s story pulls you in and won’t let go. This book is great for anyone looking for some humor and a quick getaway. I look forward to reading more books from this author and especially the next chapter in Jada’s story. Scarbrough artfully evokes emotion around every corner. Over all I loved this book.

 

A new student review of The Journey of the Marked (The Miyran Heir Series #1) by Rebecca P. McCray

TrickyCrow posted a new student review of The Journey of the Marked (The Miyran Heir Series #1) by Rebecca P. McCray. See the full review.

I thought that this book was interesting and I can't wait for the second novel. The plot felt rushed but otherwise it was alright. The characters were interesting, but it could stand for a little more diversity in sterotypes. Otherwise, it was and enjoyable and nice read. I liked the twists that were placed in it and the level of mystery kept me interested. 

A new student review of Midnight Mistry (The Mistry Trilogy) by Claire Merchant

TrickyCrow posted a new student review of Midnight Mistry (The Mistry Trilogy) by Claire Merchant. See the full review.

I found this book alright later on but not at the beginning because they focused a lot on the relationship and not a plot line. I felt this is a little too close to a Twilight plotline. However, one character I found saved this book was Salvador (or Sal) who had a sarcastic wit. This book was more about accepting fate rather than overcoming obstacles. This resulted in Taylor accomplishing little to nothing in the book. I would not read this book more than once. 

A new student review of Traveler: The Sequel to Seeker by Arwen Elys Dayton

piercelg posted a new student review of Traveler: The Sequel to Seeker by Arwen Elys Dayton. See the full review.

Traveler was so wonderful!!! The characters, world building, details and most of the answers I had been wanting were all there. Of course, not all the questions were answered; you have to leave somethings for the last book. Traveler was even better than Seeker as I was waiting at the end of Seeker for these moments, that I finally got in Traveler. I love the journey that Arwen has the characters take and the struggles they have along the way. All of this strengthens them and prepares them for what is to come.

Traveler takes place just after Seeker, only two weeks have passed.  Shinobu is recovering in the hospital from his injuries and Quin is by his side making sure he gets the help he needs. Did I mention Shinobu, swoon!!! I have loved him since Seeker and his first section on his POV. I just will always love him, and will pull for him no matter what! Quin has been given a new athame by Maud also know as (Young Dread). The athame helps her travel to different locations. They need this when her father finds them, and still continues to wage war.

A new student review of Arash the Archer: A Story from Ancient Persia by Shahriar Bourbour

Jonah Ross posted a new student review of Arash the Archer: A Story from Ancient Persia by Shahriar Bourbour. See the full review.

This is a good book for its intended audience of younger/beginning readers. For older audiences I would not recommend. The characters are rather generic as well as the plot. I do like how the book demonstrates traditional Persian culture in a way that is easy for people not familiar with it to understand.

A new student review of The Midnight War of Mateo Martinez by Robin Yardi

Lucy posted a new student review of The Midnight War of Mateo Martinez by Robin Yardi. See the full review.

The Midnight War of Mateo Martinez is a good read. Although the beginning starts slow, the action quickly rises to catch the reader's interest. Mateo was a character that I enjoyed. He took on a responsibility that may sound crazy at first, and it takes readers on an adventure. This story is about responsibilities and growing up. Things change as you grow up. Friends change, you change, and situations change. I recommend this book for elementary and middle grade students who enjoy mystery and adventure.

Tuesday, March 01, 2016

A new student review of The Shadow of Seth by Tom Llewellyn

emoji.bop posted a new student review of The Shadow of Seth by Tom Llewellyn. See the full review.

I was disappointed in this book, because it seemed to focus more on Seth's relationship with his dog and not enough on what was going on in the book when his mom was killed. My favorite part of the story was when Seth and Azura were throwing watermelons at each other, because I thought it was cute. Azura was my favorite character because she was fun, cool and confident. While this book didn't live up to my expectations, anyone who likes adventure and action- packed stories may want to give it a try.

A new student review of Monstrously Funny Cartoons by Christopher Hart

Jowill posted a new student review of Monstrously Funny Cartoons by Christopher Hart. See the full review.

I really enjoyed this book.  I am not a very good artist, but even I was able to make some pretty cool sketches following the steps in this book. Before this stick figures was the extent of what I cuold draw!

I would recommend it for anyone over the age of 7 or 8 whether they are a beginning artist or even one with experience!

A new student review of The Cat Who Came In Off The Roof by Annie M.G. Schmidt

Molly B. posted a new student review of The Cat Who Came In Off The Roof by Annie M.G. Schmidt. See the full review.

I thought "The Cat Who Came in Off the Roof "  was a good but slow book. It wasn't the most action packed but, it went into good detail. This wasn't my favorite book because of the fact that it lacked excitement but, if you like slow paced books than this is the one for you! Over all this was an ok book  but needed some pizzazz.