I thought that this was an overall good book. It really captured what Scrooge would have done after the ending of A Christmas Carol. The book was a bit hard to get into, but the imagery was nice and the details made me feel like I was right there. There were some very confusing parts, especially about the shadows and how Marley planned to get out of them. I didn't really get how Marley came into the baby Fred and Kathleen were having. The ending was kind of funny, as it left you knowing something most of the characters didn’t know. The epilogue summed things up nicely. I would also try to “hook” the reader a little more in the beginning. Scrooge's daily life was boring at first. A flashback might have helped hook the reader. I think this book could have been better, but it was still well-written.
Friday, June 28, 2013
A new student review of Scrooge and Marley
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
A new student review of A Monster Calls
As much as this tale may initially sound like a simple scary story about monsters and demons, it’s not. Conor’s monster is much more real--a larger-than-life manifestation of his real life problems. This book turns out not to be a horror story, but a touching, heart wrenching tale about accepting loss and letting go. It manages to be realistic and fantastical all at once, with an imaginative creature alongside very real characters. All in all, this is a well-written and poignant story that will leave you with a very different view of the monster in your closet.
Monday, June 24, 2013
A new student review of Pulled by Danielle Bannister
I read Pulled in about one day and very much enjoyed it. I found that the book was well written. It was detailed, but not to the point where it was boring. I felt like I was in the book listening to real people talk; the conversations never seemed forced or fake. All the characters were unique and complex in different ways, one person was not like the other. This book will not be the next big thing, but it's a great book to read for fun and I would recommend it for anyone who enjoys a love story.
A new student review of Earth Girl by Janet Edwards
Surely you remember reading your favorite book for the very first time. Earth Girl is packed with thrilling and dangerous surprises, which is probably why your favorite book is your favorite book. Earth Girl might not be your new favorite book, but being filled with some fun surprises, it will definitely be on the list of your “runner-ups”. After all, it is on mine.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
A new student review of Templand
I felt that Templand was a good book, especially due to its relevant themes. Templand embodied the horror with which young people eye the job market today, as well as their persistant hope for a great job that will enable them to change the world. With unemployment still an issue around the globe, many young adults are anxious about their future, and this idea was clearly present in Templand.
The style of Templand contributed to making a serious topic more enjoyable to read about. Humorous temp jobs from Melanie's past are mixed in with her narration of the present, which provides comic relief and makes the book lighthearted rather than depressing. The crazy blood-bank manager and her endless professional failings balances out Melanie's awful stint in the asbestos-filled Annex.
Some characters were developed better than others, but on the whole they were likeable and relatable. Melanie's relationship with her grandparents, especially her grandfather, is described well and contributes to the reader's understanding not only of Melanie's past, but also of her work ethic and goals for herself.
One thing I didn't like about Templand was the lack of dialogue. Most descriptions were narrated through Melanie's eyes, in a journal-type format. However, dialogue was used in these journal entries. I would have liked to see more of that, to break up some of Melanie's thoughts.
Overall, Templand was a good book that I would recommend to teens and young adults who enjoy chick-lit. It is a great book option for a day at the beach or lazy weekend.
A new student review of Daniel Locke and the Tower of Eden by Marty Longson
I personally enjoyed this book. Its fast-paced action and adventure is appealing to young readers. The plot had incredible twists and turns. I would recommend this book to young adults.
Friday, June 21, 2013
A new student review of Indelible
I thought this book was pretty good. There was fantasy, romance, mythology, adventure, and a little bit of everything else. It was a little confusing sometimes trying to understand the “claims” that creatures could put on humans but it was not that bad. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
A new student review of The Silent Dragon
This was a really intriguing book and reeled me in and wouldn't let me leave until I had read the entire thing. At times it jumps around, leading to confusing passages but for the most part it was pretty easy to follow. I would reccomend to older readers, solely because younger kids may not be interested.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
A new student review of Majestica; First Glimpse
I thoroughly enjoyed this “Chick Flick” turned science fiction-fantasy. I couldn't predict what would happen and had to read every detail. Mize did a wonderful job of creating not only a plot, but also ideal characters, realistic situations, and hints for a sequel (for example, whenever Mize mentions Jace’s older Brother).
The only compliant I have about the book is the slow middle. It felt like in the middle Mize put in a few “filler” chapters full of fluff—chapters that had nothing to do with the central story. But the reader will quickly forgive Mize for these “fillers” as she dramatically brings Jace’s past and future into the story. She weaves together betrayal, allies, enemies, and green eyed monsters. She lets Lacey and the reader find out that Jace isn’t just a normal Tribesman.
Anyone who enjoys a good science-fiction or fantasy story with a wave of romance will love this book. They might get a little frustrated with a few ‘filler’ chapters toward the middle, but if they stick to it they will be rewarded with a great end.
Monday, June 17, 2013
A new student review of The Language Inside
I really enjoyed The Language Inside and thought that it was a beautiful read. I was not expecting the book to be written in verse, but it worked well with the story, especially since Emma spends part of the book writing poety. I was able to read The Language Inside very quickly because there weren't many words on each page and the pages flew by. Even with less words, the author is able to present a well-rounded story with developed and interesting characters. I loved reading about Japanese and Cambodian cultures and I felt like I learned a lot. This book would be great for a book club, fans of poetry and people who like to read about different cultures.
A new student review of The Spirit of the Heart by Ismael Nuno
Ismael Nuno does a great job of balancing the content of his anecdotes. They were readible and engaging. I would recommend this book to readers who favor memoirs, enjoy medical stories and triumphs, and those who are interested in how people with demanding and complicated careers find symmetry between their professional and personal lives. Dr. Nuno's tales are professional, but engaging. They are not bogged down with medical jargon.
A new student review of The Beautiful and the Cursed
As promised, this book certainly was unique in its own little way. It had drama, romance, action, mystery...let’s just say that it kept me on the edge of my seat. It introduced some points that I have never thought of before. As soon as I looked at the cover and saw the title--The Beautiful and the Cursed: Some Nightmares Walk in the Light--I knew I was going to have fun with this one. I enjoyed all the different points of view—Ingrid’s, Luc’s, and even Gabby’s. It added much more drama to the novel and helped me understand the plot a little better. All in all, this was a great book and I would thoroughly recommend it.
“The heat fired up her arm and boiled through her veins. It reached her face and colored everything she saw red.” --excerpt from The Beautiful and the Cursed
I would recommend this book for ages ten and up, for the reading level, book length, vocabulary, and the mild expletives that you may run across while you or your child is reading.
After uncovering a secret that can never again be buried, will Ingrid ever make it all worth it by finding her lost brother...or will she die trying? Read Page Morgan’s The Beautiful and the Cursed to find out!
Note: Can’t get enough of Ingrid and the gang? The second installment of the Dispossessed series by Page Morgan, The Lovely and the Lost, is coming out in spring 2014!
Saturday, June 15, 2013
A new student review of Small as an Elephant
My favorite part was when Jack learns that his grandmother didn’t want to take him away, and that she really she cared. I also liked the parts where Jack took out the small elephant for hope. I did not like the parts when Jack got hurt or when he cried. I felt like I was feeling (emotionally and mentally) what he was feeling, but that means that author did a good job writing this book if you can take on the emotions of the characters. I would recommend this book to my friends.
A new student review of Cheesie Mack: Is Cool in a Duel by Steve Cotler
In "Cheesie Mack is Cool in a Duel", Steve Colter take Cheese's adventures to summer camp. Just days into a long summer at Camp Windward, he is challenged to a duel to prove who's the coolest. With best friend Georgie at his side, Cheesie takes on his arch enemy Kevin. I like the scary story that Cheesie tells about a one-arm man to try to win the final day of the cool duel. Cotler created an exciting continuation of the life of Cheesie.
A new student review of Girl Z: My Life as a Teenage Zombie
This book idea was really cool. It was a new take on something that has been done to death, and it could've been a very popular book. Emphasis on could've been. Verstraete seems to not really know much about writing a story. Firstly, she had far too many characters. Seriously, 5 or so characters could've been enough to make this a good book, but Verstraete adds to these, bringing in pointless characters who do nothing for the story and just add to the confusion. Also, there is a few grammatical errors. It could've been the publishers fault, but it seemed like the first draft of a story, instead of something that would get printed. Finally, the book is confusing. There is so much happening at once, it's hard to keep track.
I would have a complete conclusion, but it seemed like the book didn't have one, so I'll just say this: I would not recommend this book to anyone I know, unless I wanted them to read something bad.
A new student review of Shutdown
Heather Anastasiu creates a powerful new world in her Glitch series and does not disappoint with the final installment. Her characters are original and cleverly constructed, with an added element of realism that draws the reader in even more. Her writing is clear and interesting, and her explanations of her world are so scintillating that it feels as though such a world could come about tomorrow. As a difficult to put down page turner, this book is the perfect conclusion that ties the series together.
Friday, June 14, 2013
A new student review of The Brewster Boys and the Eve of Infamy
The Brewster Boys and the Eve of Infamy by Stephen Dittmer, a high-school history teacher, thrusts teenagers into the unfortunate position of having to view themselves objectively. Incompetence a prominent attribute of our two titular protagonists, for whom the sight of a bra elicits a quantity of glee to rival that of laughing gas, one cannot help but wonder as to the presence of vengeance in the author’s subconscious. Could the antics of Pete and Jon be manifestations of the less-than-stellar students riddling Dittmer’s career? In any case, these larger than life characters may not represent the pinnacle of literary achievement, but their temporal misadventures make for 214 pages of stereotyped delight.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
A new student review of The Whizz Pop Chocolate Shop by Kate Saunders
My overall opinion on ‘The Whizz Pop Chocolate Shop’ is that it was too magical. The realities of the actions in the book are pure fantasy and would never happen in real life. I did not enjoy how Kate Saunders added parts where ghosts and goblins jumped out. However, I did like the characters of Oz and Lily. Their personalities are good, but when there out on ‘missions’ they tell their parents that they are at camp or diving lessons, so that they ‘know where they are’. In my opinion, that sets a bad example because I look at it as deceiving your own parents! I often got distracted while I was reading the book and daydreamed sometimes as well. The author’s voice is obviously magical, too magical. Kate Saunders purpose was reached, but I did not benefit from her purpose. The vocabulary is appropriate for ages 10-12.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
A new student review of Heart of Glass by Sasha Gould
A quote that I really liked is from chapter 20 on page 129, ““What do you want?” he asks. His voice is weak, his eyes watery and yellow.” I connected this image to my grandpa. I didn’t like part of chapter 2 because it made me feel uncomfortable, and I think it would be better for older readers. I didn’t like the picture it left in my head. I recommend this book for readers older than 11. If you like romantic fantasy, you might enjoy this book. For me, it was too romantic.
Sunday, June 09, 2013
A new student review of Surfacing
The ideas behind Surfacing have great potential. The mix of viewpoints from Leah and Maggie provided hints of what had really happened the day Leah drowned, and I enjoyed hearing the perspective of the older sister. Maggie's twin brothers were great opportunities for comic relief in an otherwise gloomy novel, and many characters, including Nathan and Julie, were very relatable.
Unfortunately, the story never really came together.
In the beginning of the book it seems that Maggie's ability to draw secrets out of people will play a major role in the story. As it turns out, the strange power dissapears halfway through the book, and never really affects the plot. This was dissapointing, because I expected the power to return for some sort of twist at the end.
Maggie is also an unlikeable character. While it is possible to craft a likeable character who makes mistakes, Maggie's incessant need to be wanted by Matthew just makes the reader angry at her. Maggie never gives a good enough justification, emotional or logical, for her boy-juggling behaviors. It would have been easier to be sympathetic if the book would have focused more on emotional turmoil she was going through and gave more plausible explanations as to why she felt the need to be loved by Matthew.
Despite the books shortcomings, I would recommend this book to pre-teen and teen girls who enjoy stories about relationships, and who have an afternoon to spare. Surfacing is a quick read that will at least provide a few hours of entertainment, perfect for lazy summer beach days or an afternoon in the hammock.
A new student review of Spellbound by Monique N. Peterson
The book Spellbound by Monique N. Peterson, was an enjoyable, intriguing and refreshing read. It had good characterization and a gripping plot that made you wonder what was going to happen (however it finished with far too many questions unanswered – so hopefully it will be picked up and answered in a sequel, especially after the cliff-hanger ending and too many unsolved mysteries (Who are Bea’s parents? What are their roles? The disappearance of Queen Rosalind and Kerry. Who tried to poison the Queen? Also, the importance of the Bishop baby to the rebel boss, to name a few).
The setting was interesting – I was surprised and confused at first, as I was expecting a historical setting, but instead it was quite a different world. The people acted with modern day mannerisms, however, the traditions of the country were kind of olden dayish (absolute monarchy vs. democracy) with the monarchs and monarchy having to have arranged marriages. Yet it was futuristic in terms of the technology as it seemed more advanced and different to what we have today, such as cars with invisibility functions, plants that grow with a push of a button etc.
Spellbound was a terrific book, with an interesting setting and spellbinding mysteries; I look forward to reading a sequel.
A new student review of The Obsidian Blade
This book was a real page turner. I had a lot of trouble putting it down and ended up staying up until late at night to finish it. I would recommend this novel to anyone who wants to start to get into the science fiction drama, as it contains many futuristic themes and plot aspects. The story held my attention from beginning to end; my only complaint would be that the plot was hard to keep up with towards the end of the story. I was really surprised by how much I liked this novel; I am typically not a fan of science fiction. What made this story different from all the rest is that I could easy follow and understand. I cannot wait for the sequel.
Friday, June 07, 2013
A new student review of The Hounds Set by Troy A. Carrington
This was a great book! It was a book about a kid that gets bullied so much by a kid named Jackson. I also like how it transitions when he goes to Egypt. Background knowledge on the Egyptian gods kind of helped in this story. I like how the story gave a mystery throughout the book, on if he will ever get home. I would recommend this book to others because of the excitement, the great plot, and the way he is always referring to his textbooks and how they were wrong.
A new student review of The Kissing Booth
This book was so good!
Sure, it has its issues like any book does. There were a few mistakes here and there with grammar, and some British slang was used, but the content made up for any of that. Personally, I like my books with a perfectly happy ending all wrapped up with a nice little bow on top. But Beth Reekles' The Kissing Booth definitely made its way onto my list of favorite books.
Noah Flynn is by far the best book character I've read about in years. Most romance books have "the guy," the guy who is so perfect it's just unrealistic. Thankfully, Beth Reekles did not give us "the guy." She gave us Noah. He is over-protective, way too jealous, a violence junkie, and a major jerk sometimes; but that is what made him perfect. <3
I was also quite happy that the author didn't make The Kissing Booth into your typical clishe romance. She kept it original. It had flirting, teasing, the BEST of friends, great characters, and it was just an all around great read.
In a sense, it was perfect. <3
I'm definitely looking forward to many more books by Beth Reekles.
A new student review of Gingersnap
I like this book because I found the plot full of unexpected surprises. It appeared to be clear and interesting at the same time. I liked reading about the characters because they seemed very realistic. Jayna had a strong-willed nature, which gave her a fun personality. The ghost made the book exciting to read because I couldn’t tell when it would come back. The turtle was a cute character to add in. She was an exotic choice. I enjoyed it tons, and I hope whoever reads it likes it too. I recommend it for anyone 9+.
A new student review of Surfacing
Maggie can make anyone tell the truth so everyone is afraid of her. So she starts throwing herself at any boy. This is a great book. This book is a story of how truth can scare people away and with a teenage girl it is not hard to go too far to just be noticed. I would recommend it to mature upper teen girls. I honestly think that i should have waited to read this book till im older.
A new student review of Ruby Redfort Take Your Last Breath
It was a totally awesome book! It kept me on the edge of my seat. The storyline is great, but it was kind of a repeat from the last book. It had some hilarious lines in it, along with some interesting facts that I had no idea about. Also, there are some pages in the back explaining some codes used in the book, which I thought was cool.
A new student review of Chosen at Nightfall
This is a spectacular ending in a five book series. Let me stress series. Even though you could just pick this book up and start reading it, I advise against it. There is a lot of history and relationships the whole series has created. Starting from the first book will benefit you, and if I do say so myself, I think the first book is the best.
For those who have been following this series all along, wow. This is a must read to end the series, though it is sad. I can see why you’d hesitate, Kylie finally picks someone! You spend the whole book going back and forth between the guys, but if you know Kylie, you’ll figure out who she’ll pick in the end pretty quickly. Though, I must admit the choices are not very good. One cheated on her, while the other got married to someone else behind her back. Basically, both cheated on her.
Anyways, this is a great read. The ups and downs that come along with C.C. Hunter keep you thoroughly entertained and unable to put it down. Now, for this review, it sounds like a paranormal romance, right? Wrong. This book has comedy, action, adventure, fantasy, and, of course, a dash of romance. Really, it’s a good book for anyone to read, but I encourage you start from the first book in the series, Born at Midnight by C.C. Hunter.
A new student review of Dead Things
Stephen Blackmoore's Dead Things is a paranormal thriller that keeps you hanging on every word. Set in the dark world of vengeful spirits and horrifing power, Dead Things is nearly impossible to put down, and it keeps you guessing until the last word. Eric Carter is your classic anti-hero, bad boy with a heart off gold who makes all the wrong choices for all the right reasons. Dead Things by Stephen Blackmoore is a great read with lots off action and suspense topped with ghostly magic that ties it all together. I would suggest this book to anyone 16 and up looking for an exciting read.
Thursday, June 06, 2013
A new student review of Promises To Keep
Promises to Keep is an action packed book, full of intrigue and adventure. If the fanciful world Amelia Atwater-Rhodes created does not draw you in, then the compelling hero Jay certainly will. This book was a quick read, never ceasing to bore me. I would caution that this book is part of a series and there are certain terms and names that may be confusing, but the author explains them with enough depth while not taking too much away from the actual story. I would suggest this novel to anyone who is looking for an easy, summer read. Overall I would say Promises to Keep is a book worth keeping.
A new student review of Finders Keepers? A True Story in India
This book is a great book for one to read to a young child. It is written for young children to understand and enjoy. My sisters like it because of the fun activity in the back. Older children can have fun learning some Indian words. I liked it because the book makes you feel like you are the main character and looking at the things the characters are looking at. I recommend it for kids 5+.
A new student review of Faelorehn: Otherworld Trilogy (Book One) by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
Beginning to read Faelorehn gave me the impression that I was stepping into a world made of shadow. I was pulled into the dark setting of Meghan’s life. I very much enjoyed the irony of one of Meghan’s friends being a Celtic pagan of a sort, and then having Meghan’s reality become the Celtic myths. I also loved Fergus, a dog with white fur and reddish ears who accompanies Cade. I’ve always enjoyed mythology of any sort, and love books which involve Norse and Celtic myths in particular (Greek, Roman, and Eygptian myths steal the spotlight far too often. Not that they aren’t enjoyable). Meghan is maybe just another teenager with problems she doesn’t know how to deal with, but I appreciated her quiet inner strength. A dark, romantic, and thoroughly enthralling book, I would recommend Faelorehn to any teen with a love of dark fantasy.
A new student review of Five Summers by Una LaMarche
If I had to chose a book to read again, it definitely would be Five Summers because it wasn't the typical book you pull of the shelf. The way the book was set up kept you interested because it wasn't just one time, it was multiple. The plot was very relatable because it delt with boy drama and friendship and other things we all go through. Five Summers is definitely a book I will recommend to my friends.
A new student review of Uses for Boys
I personally did not like this book that much. I thought it was slow and the main turning point of the book with Sam didn’t come until more than halfway through the book. I find the characters as well as the style of the book interesting, but I wouldn’t recommend to very many people.
A new student review of Agent Colt Shore: Domino 29
I loved this book. I thought it was full of interesting facts about cars and other machines. I had my phone beside me looking up all of the assorted machines in this book. I thought the author did a great job writing a page turner. I could barely put the book down at night. The best part was the counting down of the dominoes as the book started. I would recommend this book to anybody who likes action/ adventure books.
Wednesday, June 05, 2013
A new student review of Garden Princess by Kristin Kladstrup
Kristin Kladstrup is a very good writer and gives awesome descriptions. You can even feel how the characters feel and see everything as though you're looking through their eyes. As there is in all good books, this story has a villain and a hero. This book even has a twist of magic. Overall, this is a very good book, and I would recommend it to anyone who loves princesses, gardens, and magic.