Style A To Zoe by: Rachel Zoe and Rose Apodaca, is about the art of fashion, beauty, and everything glamour. It gives advice on how you should feel confident in the outfits you wear. The author tries to convince the audience that looks do matter. The book has many pictures and examples of different kinds of fashion. Style A To Zoe is not only about clothing; it also includes home styling. The author Rachel Zoe and Rose Apodaca, wrote this book because they wanted to express their true feelings about fashion, and share their knowledge to the world.
I thought Style A To Zoe was a well-organized book. It had a lot of detail and information about great ways to become fashionable. Style A To Zoe has many strengths, but the one that is most recognizable is the word choice. The words are not random, and unorganized that are there because they're big or easy to write. Instead of using words such as great, nice, or okay. A word that's in this book replaced for those is marvelously. She uses well-thoughtout word in their replacement. For the weaknesses in this book the only thing I could think of was that the book was not a page turner. I found myself daydreaming and wondering if the next page would be more exciting. Otherwise I thought it was a great book, but it was dull and the only things I found interesting were the pictures and some of the tips. If I where the author I would try to have the celebrities talk more and just try to make it more interesting. Overall, it was a descent book, but I would only recommend it to someone that loves fashion.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Sandy, Oregon United States
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Slam by Nick Hornby
Sam, a 16 year-old boy, lives a normal life. It consists of eating, sleeping, going to school, and skateboarding. With a Tony Hawk poster to lead the way, and his new girlfriend, he is good to go. When Sam finally thinks he's got a hold on his life, things suddenly take a turn for the worst. With his now ex-girlfriend's news that he is about to become a father he has a choice to make: stick it out and raise his child, or run away from it all.
Overall Slam is an extremely successful book, it creates a setting that is very easy for many teenagers to relate to. The characters are very strong and you feel as if you personally know them. For the most part it is very realistic, however, there are some fantastical situations which create interesting twists that aren't found in other books. Slam has a great message, and Nick Hornby did a great job of making his point clear and strong. Though it is a fairly simple book and not much of challenge, I would definitely recommend this books to others, and especially to all teenagers.
Content:3
there is talk of sex
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Marblehead , MA USA
Overall Slam is an extremely successful book, it creates a setting that is very easy for many teenagers to relate to. The characters are very strong and you feel as if you personally know them. For the most part it is very realistic, however, there are some fantastical situations which create interesting twists that aren't found in other books. Slam has a great message, and Nick Hornby did a great job of making his point clear and strong. Though it is a fairly simple book and not much of challenge, I would definitely recommend this books to others, and especially to all teenagers.
Content:3
there is talk of sex
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Marblehead , MA USA
Vendetta by Chris Humphreys
Vendetta by Chris Humphreys is the second book in his young adult series The Runestone Saga. After escaping his grandfather, Sky—the protagonist—travels to Corsica in order to learn more about his family’s history and how to free his cousin’s Fetch (a soul or spirit) from his evil grandfather. In Corsica Sky meets Pascaline, his aunt, and she teaches him about the history of his family. However, no knowledge comes without a price. Sky learns of a feud between his family, the Marcaggi, and the neighboring Farcese family. Pascaline shows Sky that the only way to end the Vendetta that has killed family members for centuries is to use the way of the Mazzeri and end the blood line of the Farcese on All Souls Day. Sky is faced with this decision and many more as he develops his knowledge with the Runes and as a dream hunter. Full of action and suspense, Vendetta will keep you reading for more.
Having read Humphrey’s first “Runestone” book, The Fetch, I had a very good understanding of the characters and the plot development. With that said, I was impressed with the author’s advancement of the plot while still accounting for the many angles he approached. The author has an immense knowledge of history regarding Runestones and the legend of the Mazzeri. When Humphreys incorporated the two historical contexts, it created a very interesting plot. I am looking forward to his next book in order to see what he will add to the historical aspect. Humphrey’s tone fit well with the mood of the book. Light hearted in some areas, and intellectually intense in others. Humphreys provided lots of action and an insight into the thoughts of the protagonist. These created a suspense that kept me fascinated with the story. The end of the book created new questions and wrinkles to the storyline, and this provided me a yearning to read more. I recommend Vendetta and The Runestone Saga to readers with a historical curiosity, and an appetite for action.
Content: Some graphic violence
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Eden Prairie , Minnesota United States
Having read Humphrey’s first “Runestone” book, The Fetch, I had a very good understanding of the characters and the plot development. With that said, I was impressed with the author’s advancement of the plot while still accounting for the many angles he approached. The author has an immense knowledge of history regarding Runestones and the legend of the Mazzeri. When Humphreys incorporated the two historical contexts, it created a very interesting plot. I am looking forward to his next book in order to see what he will add to the historical aspect. Humphrey’s tone fit well with the mood of the book. Light hearted in some areas, and intellectually intense in others. Humphreys provided lots of action and an insight into the thoughts of the protagonist. These created a suspense that kept me fascinated with the story. The end of the book created new questions and wrinkles to the storyline, and this provided me a yearning to read more. I recommend Vendetta and The Runestone Saga to readers with a historical curiosity, and an appetite for action.
Content: Some graphic violence
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Eden Prairie , Minnesota United States
The Confessional by J.L. Powers
The Confesional, by J.L. Powers is a very interesting book about murder, racism, and life on the Mexico-America border in El Paso, Texas. The book is told from the perspective of 6 different characters who all attend Jesuit High School, a school for boys on the American side of the border. At Jesuit, there is a line of division between Mexicans and Americans, and when Mackenzie Malone is murdered, this line becomes even more prominent. At school, Mac can't take Bernie bothering him anymore, so they fight. That night, Mac is murdered. The next day, Alex Gold, a boy who is so invisible, no one at Jesuit knows who he is, goes missing. Everyone wants to know who killed Mac, they want to know who gold is, and in the midst of all this, there are racial and drug issues.
The Confessional is a very interesing book about racism and how it can divide people. The novel makes a point of proving that "Everybody's guilty of something." This book challenged me to think about what I would do if I was in the same situation as any of these boys. It was a very powerful read. The ending is something no one would ecpect and I would definetely recommend this book to mature readers.
Content: The Confessional has a content rating of 3 because it contains violence, drugs, and sexual content.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: East Islip, New York United States
The Confessional is a very interesing book about racism and how it can divide people. The novel makes a point of proving that "Everybody's guilty of something." This book challenged me to think about what I would do if I was in the same situation as any of these boys. It was a very powerful read. The ending is something no one would ecpect and I would definetely recommend this book to mature readers.
Content: The Confessional has a content rating of 3 because it contains violence, drugs, and sexual content.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: East Islip, New York United States
Breathe My Name by R.A. Nelson
Frances Robinson should be happy. She has a boyfriend, she's about to turn eighteen, and her life is upper-midlle class. But whenever an ambulance goes by at night, she is suddenly afraid, heart pounding. Frances has a secret; a secret so big, it might be classified into a couple secrets. She finally tells her boyfriend, and asks him to help her kill off this fear once and for all. A great journey begins, both physically and mentally challenging.
Breathe My Name was a captivating book, starting in the middle of a young adult's biggest problem: her birth mother. How R. A. Nelson got into the mind of Francine was wonderful, the author truly captured what the protagonist was thinking and her reasoning. The chapter in which it exposes R. C. Carruthers pushes the book into a deep genre of suspense and mystery, showing his thinking and at the same time Francine's. Nix, Francine's boyfriend, helps her the whole journey, supporting her and introducing her to new smells, sights, and thoughts. Breathe My Name had me hooked from the beginning.
Language and sexual content (Francine and her boyfriend).
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Eagle Creek, OR USA
Breathe My Name was a captivating book, starting in the middle of a young adult's biggest problem: her birth mother. How R. A. Nelson got into the mind of Francine was wonderful, the author truly captured what the protagonist was thinking and her reasoning. The chapter in which it exposes R. C. Carruthers pushes the book into a deep genre of suspense and mystery, showing his thinking and at the same time Francine's. Nix, Francine's boyfriend, helps her the whole journey, supporting her and introducing her to new smells, sights, and thoughts. Breathe My Name had me hooked from the beginning.
Language and sexual content (Francine and her boyfriend).
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Eagle Creek, OR USA
A Gathering of Gargoyles by Meredith Ann Pierce
This book is a fantasy novel that was made to entertain. It was a thought-provoking novel and an adventure story, with both internal and external conflicts. In the novel, Aerial has saved Irrylath from his fate as a vampyre and they are married, but he still shuns her. She realizes she must set off to find the lost lons, or guardians, to be mounts for Irrylath's brothers in the upcoming battle against the remaining vampyres and their leader, the White Witch. On her journey, she meets new and old friends, including six gargoyles she tamed. She learns secrets about her and Irrylath's past and encounters many foes while trying to reach a sibyl to tell her how to find the lost lons.
This novel was an interesting and exciting read. The characters and setting are very unusual and interesting, though the plot feels rushed at points and some of the characters either do not make sense or leave the story too quickly. A lot of the novel deals with Aerial's love for Irrylath, so the book has a lot of romance and sorrow. This adds to the story by giving it internal conflicts, but it is not too centered around love. It retains adventure. However, the book is the second in a trilogy. I read the previous book first and recommend doing so, though it is not necessary. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, but I did wish that it was longer. I will definitely read the third book.
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Royersford, PA United states
This novel was an interesting and exciting read. The characters and setting are very unusual and interesting, though the plot feels rushed at points and some of the characters either do not make sense or leave the story too quickly. A lot of the novel deals with Aerial's love for Irrylath, so the book has a lot of romance and sorrow. This adds to the story by giving it internal conflicts, but it is not too centered around love. It retains adventure. However, the book is the second in a trilogy. I read the previous book first and recommend doing so, though it is not necessary. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, but I did wish that it was longer. I will definitely read the third book.
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Royersford, PA United states
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Calligraphy of the Witch
Concepion Benavidez has lived in Mexico for all of her life.
When she leaves the convent where she is indentured for a
better opportunity, a slave ship headed to Salem,
Massachusetts, captures Concepion and her friend.
Concepion's friend dies during the journey to Salem, the
captain of the ship sexually abuses her, and she is almost
starved to death. Needless to say, when Concepion arrives
at Salem, she is a very different person than she was.
Concepion's name is changed to Thankful Seagraves, and sold
to Nathaniel Greenwood, who has her take care of his
father-in-law. All through these terrifying experiences,
Thankful is pregnant. After she gives birth, Thankful and
her daughter try to get used to the colonial American ways
of life, but have a hard time. Thankful finds solace in
talking to Tituba, who is from Barbados and also is an
outsider. Then, the Salem Witch Trials arise, and things
take a turn for the worse when Hanna names her own mother a
witch.
When she leaves the convent where she is indentured for a
better opportunity, a slave ship headed to Salem,
Massachusetts, captures Concepion and her friend.
Concepion's friend dies during the journey to Salem, the
captain of the ship sexually abuses her, and she is almost
starved to death. Needless to say, when Concepion arrives
at Salem, she is a very different person than she was.
Concepion's name is changed to Thankful Seagraves, and sold
to Nathaniel Greenwood, who has her take care of his
father-in-law. All through these terrifying experiences,
Thankful is pregnant. After she gives birth, Thankful and
her daughter try to get used to the colonial American ways
of life, but have a hard time. Thankful finds solace in
talking to Tituba, who is from Barbados and also is an
outsider. Then, the Salem Witch Trials arise, and things
take a turn for the worse when Hanna names her own mother a
witch.
This book was a unique, one of a kind read. I have read
many things about the Salem Witch Trials, but never anything
like this. The point-of-view was very eye opening, and made
me experience this particular time period freshly. Alicia
Gaspar de Alba wrote very descriptively, and vividly. I
never once questioned the way something looked, or smelled,
or felt. The historical research put into this story was
immense, and I felt that the author put it into context well.
I probably would not recommend this book to anyone
younger then fourteen, though, because of confusing plot
twists, and adult themes.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country:
Boothwyn, PA United States
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Queen Geeks In Love
Who knew that Geeks had a social life? Shelby Chapelle is a normal sophomore who likes Sci-Fi flicks and chocolate. She and her best friend, Becca, have big plans for the school year. First, they will recruit more Geeks for Queen Geeks. Secondly, they will throw the best and first Geek Fest the school has ever seen. But there are complications, Shelby is having some boy trouble with her boyfriend, Fletcher. Becca and Amber have fallen for the same guy. And why is Fletcher singing karaoke? Shelby's life pretty much revolves around peace and love. Did I mention she has a robot?
I really liked the book Geeks In Love.It was a real page turner. Shelby is a funny person that you just want to scream out, "Don't do that!" while you are reading. The plot was excellent. How can you pull together Geek Fest, comic-con, and Shelby's Halloween party all at the same time? To me, this book pretty much compares to some of the other books I've read, but it was still good in it's own way.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
They do swear in this book and some relational scenes and content.
Reviewer Age:12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, IL United States
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
The Herion Diaries
Nikki Six, the Lead Singer of Motley Crue, is stuck in a
life filled with drugs, alcohol, sex, and money. This sounds
like a cool way to live life. What happens when Nikki wants
to escape this life,but is surrounded by it and can't get
out? And then the band goes on tour. Everything starts off
good, but when Nikki falls back into bad habits he crashes
to an all time low. Will Nikki be able to fight and win this
battle with drugs, or will he be pulled down to it's darkest
depths and never be able to resurface?
life filled with drugs, alcohol, sex, and money. This sounds
like a cool way to live life. What happens when Nikki wants
to escape this life,but is surrounded by it and can't get
out? And then the band goes on tour. Everything starts off
good, but when Nikki falls back into bad habits he crashes
to an all time low. Will Nikki be able to fight and win this
battle with drugs, or will he be pulled down to it's darkest
depths and never be able to resurface?
I was kind of shocked by how deep Nikki was into drugs.
As I turned page after page I kept asking myself, why is
this dude still alive????? I did enjoy reading this book,
because it explained the pressure of how hard it is to be a
rock and roll star. And it also put into perspective how
hard it is to be around people who do drugs. This book is
one I will think about for a long time. If I ever consider
doing drugs in the future, all I have to do is look at the
cover of this book.I will remember that drugs are something
I do not wanna mess with because the drugs always win.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Sex, drugs, alcohol
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona
Unites States of America
Girls That Growl
Okay, we've got disappearing All Star football players(no
big loss there) and cheerleaders are starting to...growl(and
I thought all they were supposed to do is hook up with
football players). And, of course it's all up to me, Rayne
McDonald to figure out what's going on behind closed doors
with those cheerleaders. It's all up to me to find the
jocks, and get the cheerleaders back to normal. And then,
with an impromptu visit to Europe, my hottie vampire is
starting to doubt our loving relationship.(And we are blood
mates. It's not as if we can just break up. We are stuck
with each other for life!!!). Will I be able to survive this
semester? Come on people!! I am a vampire after all...
big loss there) and cheerleaders are starting to...growl(and
I thought all they were supposed to do is hook up with
football players). And, of course it's all up to me, Rayne
McDonald to figure out what's going on behind closed doors
with those cheerleaders. It's all up to me to find the
jocks, and get the cheerleaders back to normal. And then,
with an impromptu visit to Europe, my hottie vampire is
starting to doubt our loving relationship.(And we are blood
mates. It's not as if we can just break up. We are stuck
with each other for life!!!). Will I be able to survive this
semester? Come on people!! I am a vampire after all...
A refreshing new vampire story, Girls that Growl is
different from all of those other vampire stories about
bloodsucking vampires coming to get you (I'm thinking Dracula
here). It has a very original plot, and I am surprised
Paramount hasn't made it to a movie yet. Girls That Growl is
an enjoyable high school story, one that will appeal to
almost everyone. Its got love, its got drama, its got parent
problems. In fact, the only thing this doesn't have
is...well I don't know what it doesn't have but there must
be something!!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
sexual content and mild language
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa
Grande, Arizona Unites States of America
Monday, October 29, 2007
King of the Lost and Found
Raymond Dunne sneezes. A lot. And he's prone to nosebleeds and fainting, too. Sure, people notice him...but not exactly for the right reasons. So Raymond comes up with a daring plan...and if it works, everyone in school will know his name. With the help of popular-but troubled-grade twelve student Jack Alexander, Raymond begins the transformation from lonely nerd to the only guy who can get you into the hottest club in town. A club that unites the cool and the hopelessly uncool. But how long will it last? And what will Raymond do without it?
King of the Lost and Found was a very funny and insightful book. Every chapter held a new and unexpected surprise. At first, I wasn't really drawn into it, but after a few chapters I was hooked. King of the Lost and Found had such unique characters and an interesting plot. The characters were very realistic and humorous to read about, especially Raymond. Reading this book gave me a sense of hope that even if I'm not necessarily the most popular, I can still come out on top by being myself, being loyal, and just being a friend. I think everyone should read this book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age:16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, MO 63760
The Lighthouse War
In The Lighthouse War, Jamie and Ramsay return to the planet
Altair. In order to do so, however, they need to convince
Ramsay's older brother to help them recharge the Salmon used
to travel between worlds. With his help, they break into a
power plant and recharge it. Brian, Ramsay's brother, then
orders that he goes first. He comes back to say that men in
hoods, and a lady attacked him. Then, Jamie's mother gets grabbed (the second time), after coming to the lighthouse. Sheand Brian are captured, while Ramsay and Jamie get away. They travel back and land on the Sacred Isle, where Alkhavansoldiers are attempting to take down the lighthouse.
However, the Oraland soldiers, lead by Lorca, drive them
off. It is then that Jamie discovers that, after the year
of his absence, Wishaway had married Lorca. Ksar has by
then become the leader of Alkhava, with his sister the Witch
Queen. Lorca convinces his grandfather to lend him ships
and soldiers to help rescue Jamie's family from the Witch
Queen. Ksar knows of his attempt, and plans an ambush.
During this time, Jamie has tried, unsuccessfully, to talk
to Wishaway. She is angry that he continues to talk about
her marriage. When they arrive in Balanmanik, the Witch
Queen's home city with the glacier to the north, the Witch
Queen herself meets them. Brian and Anna, Jamie's mother,
are brought out. Jamie and Lorca take them and are about to
ride off when the entire Alkhavan army attacks. Once the
battle is lost, Brian, Anna, Jamie, Ramsay, Wishaway, and
Lorca run off on top of the glacier to escape. The
Alkhavans then pursue them.After several days, they reach
a spot where the ice thins. After a few hours, the ice has
faded and it is much warmer. The Alkhavans are getting
close. Finally, the group reaches what the Alkhavans call
the Tomb of the Ice Gods. Those members of the group from
Earth, however, realize it's a space ship.After opening it
with the Salmon, Brian and Ramsay work on opening it. The
others gather berries to eat and snow to melt and drink.
However, once they figure out how to work it, Lorca decides
not to go to Earth. Wishaway, however, refuses to surrender
to the Alkhavans. Lorca leaves and tells the Alkhavans
everything he knows. They attack while Jamie and Wishaway
are gathering berries. Ksar attacks Jamie and Wishaway, who
manage to stop him. Lorca, meanwhile, realizes what he had
done and attacked and killed the Witch Queen, himself dying
in the process. Jamie and the others escape to Earth, but
Ksar sneaks on and hides in the ceiling. When he attacks
them, they overpower him and Ksar dies. On Earth, they
crash land the ship off the Scottish coast and are picked up
by a radio station barge. No one knows that they came on a
spaceship, having been told it was a light aircraft.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Altair. In order to do so, however, they need to convince
Ramsay's older brother to help them recharge the Salmon used
to travel between worlds. With his help, they break into a
power plant and recharge it. Brian, Ramsay's brother, then
orders that he goes first. He comes back to say that men in
hoods, and a lady attacked him. Then, Jamie's mother gets grabbed (the second time), after coming to the lighthouse. Sheand Brian are captured, while Ramsay and Jamie get away. They travel back and land on the Sacred Isle, where Alkhavansoldiers are attempting to take down the lighthouse.
However, the Oraland soldiers, lead by Lorca, drive them
off. It is then that Jamie discovers that, after the year
of his absence, Wishaway had married Lorca. Ksar has by
then become the leader of Alkhava, with his sister the Witch
Queen. Lorca convinces his grandfather to lend him ships
and soldiers to help rescue Jamie's family from the Witch
Queen. Ksar knows of his attempt, and plans an ambush.
During this time, Jamie has tried, unsuccessfully, to talk
to Wishaway. She is angry that he continues to talk about
her marriage. When they arrive in Balanmanik, the Witch
Queen's home city with the glacier to the north, the Witch
Queen herself meets them. Brian and Anna, Jamie's mother,
are brought out. Jamie and Lorca take them and are about to
ride off when the entire Alkhavan army attacks. Once the
battle is lost, Brian, Anna, Jamie, Ramsay, Wishaway, and
Lorca run off on top of the glacier to escape. The
Alkhavans then pursue them.After several days, they reach
a spot where the ice thins. After a few hours, the ice has
faded and it is much warmer. The Alkhavans are getting
close. Finally, the group reaches what the Alkhavans call
the Tomb of the Ice Gods. Those members of the group from
Earth, however, realize it's a space ship.After opening it
with the Salmon, Brian and Ramsay work on opening it. The
others gather berries to eat and snow to melt and drink.
However, once they figure out how to work it, Lorca decides
not to go to Earth. Wishaway, however, refuses to surrender
to the Alkhavans. Lorca leaves and tells the Alkhavans
everything he knows. They attack while Jamie and Wishaway
are gathering berries. Ksar attacks Jamie and Wishaway, who
manage to stop him. Lorca, meanwhile, realizes what he had
done and attacked and killed the Witch Queen, himself dying
in the process. Jamie and the others escape to Earth, but
Ksar sneaks on and hides in the ceiling. When he attacks
them, they overpower him and Ksar dies. On Earth, they
crash land the ship off the Scottish coast and are picked up
by a radio station barge. No one knows that they came on a
spaceship, having been told it was a light aircraft.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
This book was, if possible, better than the first. It
was nonstop action, with some romance thrown in to spice it
up. The characters were dynamic and changed with every
twist of the plot. They were round and you ended up crying
and laughing with them. There was even plenty of comic
relief. The Lighthouse War gets a ten out of ten from me.
Violence
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country:
Chambersburg, PA US
Wyvernhail
Once upon a time, in a land so far away we've not even heard
of it... Hai, a young girl living under Wyvern's Court, is
basically a rouge. Half-family with royalty, she's an exile-
a half-breed. She was born to a falcon mother that forgot
her and a cobra father who'd died years ago. Her magical
powers are strong; although so strong, she can only
partially control it. That is, with the help of her friend,
Nicias, the royal guard, who'd saved her life once before.
However, when the ruler of Cobriana (snake country) leaves
the throne to run off with her girlfriend, Hai's visions go
wrong- everything from King Salem dying, to the destruction
of a whole generation, to Wyvern's Court burned to bits.
Worried for her land, Hai's prepared to sacrifice
everything, even the trust of her people.
of it... Hai, a young girl living under Wyvern's Court, is
basically a rouge. Half-family with royalty, she's an exile-
a half-breed. She was born to a falcon mother that forgot
her and a cobra father who'd died years ago. Her magical
powers are strong; although so strong, she can only
partially control it. That is, with the help of her friend,
Nicias, the royal guard, who'd saved her life once before.
However, when the ruler of Cobriana (snake country) leaves
the throne to run off with her girlfriend, Hai's visions go
wrong- everything from King Salem dying, to the destruction
of a whole generation, to Wyvern's Court burned to bits.
Worried for her land, Hai's prepared to sacrifice
everything, even the trust of her people.
I believe my opinion may be affected by the fact that I
didn't understand much of the book- I'd not read the first
books, so the setting and characters were completely alien
to me. However, although the writing was beautifully and
poetically done, the characters seemed almost without a
shred of humor- and when they laughed, it was something
morbid that caused it. It seemed on the darker side of
fantasy- maybe too dark for me. I don't think it's
appropriate for young children, just because of this dark,
complicated style, and although it's a lovely tale of
suffering and suspense, I didn't enjoy it as much as I'd
wished I had.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
I don't think that the book was inappropriate to the
extent of censorship. However, Hai, the main character, has
her coquettish moments.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country:
Mahomet, Illinois United States of America
Good Ghouls Do
Would you be afraid if your boyfriend was going to kill you?
Would you want to have nothing for food but blood? And do
you think it would just be horrible not to be able to get a
tan? If you would answer yes to these questions, be glad
you're not Beth Frasier. She has to deal with all three of
these situations, and that's the reason why she really
doesn't want to be a vampire anymore. She thinks her
boyfriend wants to kill her because she transformed him into
a vampire, and the only way he can be human again is by
killing her. She wishes she could eat something good,
without throwing it up. Blood is the only item on the menu
for her! And Beth can't go outside at all, so she can never
get a tan! Unless she can figure out an Old Latin formula
that would allow her to see sunlight again, or kill her maker,
without being killed herself, she'll be stuck a vampire forever.
Would you want to have nothing for food but blood? And do
you think it would just be horrible not to be able to get a
tan? If you would answer yes to these questions, be glad
you're not Beth Frasier. She has to deal with all three of
these situations, and that's the reason why she really
doesn't want to be a vampire anymore. She thinks her
boyfriend wants to kill her because she transformed him into
a vampire, and the only way he can be human again is by
killing her. She wishes she could eat something good,
without throwing it up. Blood is the only item on the menu
for her! And Beth can't go outside at all, so she can never
get a tan! Unless she can figure out an Old Latin formula
that would allow her to see sunlight again, or kill her maker,
without being killed herself, she'll be stuck a vampire forever.
I didn't think I would enjoy this book at first, but that
just proves you should never judge a book by its cover. I
love vampire books, but I thought this would just be like
every other one I've read. This book wasn't as it was
different, fun, and an exciting page-turner. It was a little
confusing throughout, only because I hadn't read the
prequel. But I did catch onto the plot quickly. If you like vampire
books, I'd definitely recommend Good Ghouls Do.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Tarpon Springs, Florida
United States
Saturday, October 27, 2007
My Swordhand is Singing
In the dead of winter, when its wrath is at its peak,
something stirs. Something so evil and full of hate, there
are no words that can describe it. In the small village of
Chust, Tomas and his son, Peter, make their livelihood as
woodsmen. As attacks upon livestock occur, rumors of the
Shadow Queen drift back and forth around the village. When
the wandering gypsies come to Chust, painful memories of the
past flood through Tomas. An ancient evil has once again
risen, and Tomas must go out to face it.
something stirs. Something so evil and full of hate, there
are no words that can describe it. In the small village of
Chust, Tomas and his son, Peter, make their livelihood as
woodsmen. As attacks upon livestock occur, rumors of the
Shadow Queen drift back and forth around the village. When
the wandering gypsies come to Chust, painful memories of the
past flood through Tomas. An ancient evil has once again
risen, and Tomas must go out to face it.
I thought this was an extremely suspenseful read. As I
read along, I began to make predictions about what was going
to happen next. Unfortunately for me, just about all of my
guesses were incorrect. Towards the end of the story, it
becomes just a smidgen more suspenseful, and even a little
more horrifying. Personally, I thought the book would be
longer and have more scary deeds. I was also hoping for more
action. All in all, it was a fast paced, enjoyable, and
chilling little read.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Denair, California America
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Violet on the Runway
Violet on the Runway is about a teenage girl that gets the
chance of a lifetime. She gets the opportunity to walk the
runway of Fashion Week in New York City. Before Violet's
life hit the fast lane, she saw herself in a very negative
light. Violet is a very tall, and very skinny girl in her
high school. Because of the big differences between her and
her peers, she feels like an outsider and just wants to be
accepted and popular. When she gets her chance to stand out
in the crowd, she takes it. Violet decides that modeling is
what she wants to do with her life and tries to settle into
the world of super models and celebrities. However, Violet
soon finds out that all the glitter and glamor seen from
the outside is not what the model life is about. A big
decision needs to be made, either continue with her life as
a star or go back home to her best friends she left behind
in her "plain" life.
chance of a lifetime. She gets the opportunity to walk the
runway of Fashion Week in New York City. Before Violet's
life hit the fast lane, she saw herself in a very negative
light. Violet is a very tall, and very skinny girl in her
high school. Because of the big differences between her and
her peers, she feels like an outsider and just wants to be
accepted and popular. When she gets her chance to stand out
in the crowd, she takes it. Violet decides that modeling is
what she wants to do with her life and tries to settle into
the world of super models and celebrities. However, Violet
soon finds out that all the glitter and glamor seen from
the outside is not what the model life is about. A big
decision needs to be made, either continue with her life as
a star or go back home to her best friends she left behind
in her "plain" life.
Violet on the Runway is one of the best leisure books I
have read in a long time. The book kept me interested as I
dove into the plot. The author, Melissa Walker, did an
excellent job. She told a story of glitter and glamor on
the surface but a mess deeper inside. The main character in
the book thinks all her dreams are coming true, something is
finally happening the way she wants it. But, later the
reader decides with Violet whether or not this celebrity
style life is really what Violet wants. I have to say, as a
girly girl, this is currently one of my favorite books that
I am recommending and sharing with all my friends. I
absolutely loved it. Kudos to Melissa Walker, kudos.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
There was some drug content in the book as well as mature
issues that are faced.
Reviewer Age:18
Reviewer City, State and Country:
Phoenixville, Pennsylvania U.S.A.
Paraworld Zero
In this fantasy novel, the main purpose of the story was to
entertain. It was not a really deep novel, even though
there were a few personal and moral conflicts. It was an
action-packed story set in a series of parallel worlds.
Most of the characters had magical abilities. The main
character, a boy named Simon, leaves planet Earth with a
magic user trainee named Tonya. They are stranded on a
paraworld completely devoid of magic and make friends there.
Soon, Simon discovers that he is the only person that can
perform magic on that particular planet. With their
newfound friends, Simon and Tonya must save the world and
make their way off the planet. In the other paraworlds,
sinister events are taking place. The ending answers the
immediate questions, but leaves some questions to be
resolved later in the series.
entertain. It was not a really deep novel, even though
there were a few personal and moral conflicts. It was an
action-packed story set in a series of parallel worlds.
Most of the characters had magical abilities. The main
character, a boy named Simon, leaves planet Earth with a
magic user trainee named Tonya. They are stranded on a
paraworld completely devoid of magic and make friends there.
Soon, Simon discovers that he is the only person that can
perform magic on that particular planet. With their
newfound friends, Simon and Tonya must save the world and
make their way off the planet. In the other paraworlds,
sinister events are taking place. The ending answers the
immediate questions, but leaves some questions to be
resolved later in the series.
As a fantasy and science fiction lover, I greatly enjoyed
the story. However, if you are not into fantasy, it may not
be the best choice for you. The author did a great job
creating a setting completely unique to his series. The
plot could be a little jumpy or rushed at times, but it was
fairly easy to follow the story line. It is a must read for
anyone who loves fantasy and for anyone who loves a good
adventure/coming-of-age novel.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Royersford,
Pennsylvania United States
The Ice Dragon
Adara is the protagonist, with the heat, her father, and the
war as the antagonists. Adara must overcome her cold heart
and experience death and life to understand warmth, but she
was born in a snow storm, which killed her mother. Then, in
the midst of a cold childhood, Adara meets the ice dragon.
It is even colder than her, breathing ice instead of fire,
and freezing rivers that it settles next to. But just as her
friendship with the ice dragon blossoms, a war is upon her
father's farm. Adara has to choose between her family or a
cold life with the ice dragon, in a land where winter never
ends... the decision is up to her.
war as the antagonists. Adara must overcome her cold heart
and experience death and life to understand warmth, but she
was born in a snow storm, which killed her mother. Then, in
the midst of a cold childhood, Adara meets the ice dragon.
It is even colder than her, breathing ice instead of fire,
and freezing rivers that it settles next to. But just as her
friendship with the ice dragon blossoms, a war is upon her
father's farm. Adara has to choose between her family or a
cold life with the ice dragon, in a land where winter never
ends... the decision is up to her.
The Ice Dragon was a captivating book, with a tragedy and
a mystery wound into it. Adara is a mysterious little child,
unloved by her father and shunned by the rest of the village
children. But the most interesting thing is that she doesn't
care, preferring to go and build ice fortresses alone than
torture ice lizards with the other children. When the ice
dragon is introduced to the story, at first I was afraid for
the villagers; and the Adara befriended it, so the fear
abated. The climax point (where Adara chose which life to
live) was thrilling, and showed a clear hardship for Adara.
The only thing that I thought could have been made more
clear was the location, as it only included Uncle Hal
talking about the king. But other than that, the overall
book was definitely a page-turner, keeping me from other
tasks to read it.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Eagle Creek, OR USA
The Unheard: A Memoir of Deafness and Africa
This book follows the journey of Jeff Swiller as a Peace
Corp volunteer in the village of Mununga in Zambia. Swiller
is legally deaf and has learned to use hearing aids. But
this puts him in a difficult situation- he doesn't fit in
with the hearing community, nor with the deaf community.
When Swiller goes to Mununga, he believes that this is
finally a place where his hearing ability doesn't matter.
But Mununga also has the harsh realities of life. Swiller
witnesses sickness, death, disease, a mob, and a violent bus
crash. He finds good friends, but also makes some enemies.
In the end, his Peace Corp trip will change the way Swiller
views the world and himself.
Corp volunteer in the village of Mununga in Zambia. Swiller
is legally deaf and has learned to use hearing aids. But
this puts him in a difficult situation- he doesn't fit in
with the hearing community, nor with the deaf community.
When Swiller goes to Mununga, he believes that this is
finally a place where his hearing ability doesn't matter.
But Mununga also has the harsh realities of life. Swiller
witnesses sickness, death, disease, a mob, and a violent bus
crash. He finds good friends, but also makes some enemies.
In the end, his Peace Corp trip will change the way Swiller
views the world and himself.
This book is not a larger-than-life story about how one
man made the world a better place. Rather, it is a honest
memoir about real life. It is not a cheerful book, but it is
something that will make an impression. The book deals with
many different issues, including issues faced by deaf people
in America and around the world, issues about understanding
different cultures and places, and issues about life and
death. The book is very detailed, and in some cases I
thought the details were excessive. This is definitely not a
book to read for a happy bedtime story, but don't let that
put you off - it is definitely a book worth reading,
especially if you are interested in learning more about the
world.
bad language, sex
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Urbana, Illinois USA
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Dragon Maze
Dragon Maze is the story of a girl, named Shiloh, who
time-travels into ancient Babylon. Sad because her father
is dead, she looks through his boyhood toys and finds a very
old puzzle. The puzzle is a portal that sends Shiloh from
our world into Babylon. Once there, she gains new friends
along with many enemies. Desperately trying to find a way
home, Shiloh takes on a quest to save dragonkind and mankind.
time-travels into ancient Babylon. Sad because her father
is dead, she looks through his boyhood toys and finds a very
old puzzle. The puzzle is a portal that sends Shiloh from
our world into Babylon. Once there, she gains new friends
along with many enemies. Desperately trying to find a way
home, Shiloh takes on a quest to save dragonkind and mankind.
Dragon Maze is a fantastic book that takes you on a
magical journey through time. The author draws you into the
story with fascinating characters and detailed description
of an older time and place. Even though the book is a
fantasy, the author has a way of making it believable. This
is my first time travel book but it definitely won't be my
last.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Two people got their tongues cut out, one person got
stabbed and died, and another got eaten by demons.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Hamilton, OH USA
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Extras
Aya Fuse is fifteen and living in the time after the world
of uglies, pretties, and specials. People don't care about
how you look. They care about how famous you are. Everyone
has a social status that is monitored 24/7. Aya is a
miserable extra, someone that no one knows about and is just
there. She wants to be famous so she kicks stories, or
writes stories about others to get fame. When she finds a
secret group, the Sly Girls, she plans on kicking a story
about them and a weapon that could be the end of the world.
Her story gets kicked and instantly she is extremely famous.
Then, they need to save the world with just herself, a
famous guy named Frizz (who she has a crush on), her brother
Hiro, his friend Ren, and a couple other people who are so
famous they can't be seen.
of uglies, pretties, and specials. People don't care about
how you look. They care about how famous you are. Everyone
has a social status that is monitored 24/7. Aya is a
miserable extra, someone that no one knows about and is just
there. She wants to be famous so she kicks stories, or
writes stories about others to get fame. When she finds a
secret group, the Sly Girls, she plans on kicking a story
about them and a weapon that could be the end of the world.
Her story gets kicked and instantly she is extremely famous.
Then, they need to save the world with just herself, a
famous guy named Frizz (who she has a crush on), her brother
Hiro, his friend Ren, and a couple other people who are so
famous they can't be seen.
I loved Uglies, Pretties, and Specials. Extras was just
as good as the rest. The setting is in the future, but it
seems so realistic and I find myself in their world.
Everything is described well and the book has great imagery.
One problem was that in about the middle of the book it
starts saying that she is talking in Japanese. I think that
is a really cool thing, however, I don't recall it ever
mentioning it earlier so I had no clue she wasn't talking in
English! Westerfeld could have added that earlier on in the
book for a better understanding. I recommend Extras to
mostly girls who like futuristic suspense, but I think
everyone would love it.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania
United States of America
Pageants of Despair
Peter is a normal boy, living a normal life, until that
fateful day.
His mother was out walking and was molested. Now Peter is
on a train away from his hometown to visit with his aunt and
uncle. On the train, he meets a stranger named Gilbert.
This stranger is stranger than any person Peter has ever met
before. He says he is from fourteenth century Dunfield.
Gilbert takes Peter back in time to save a play that is
turning the unsuspecting actors into the characters they play.
When the story takes a turn for the worst, what will Peter do?
fateful day.
His mother was out walking and was molested. Now Peter is
on a train away from his hometown to visit with his aunt and
uncle. On the train, he meets a stranger named Gilbert.
This stranger is stranger than any person Peter has ever met
before. He says he is from fourteenth century Dunfield.
Gilbert takes Peter back in time to save a play that is
turning the unsuspecting actors into the characters they play.
When the story takes a turn for the worst, what will Peter do?
First off, this book was brilliant. The idea behind the
plot was fascinating. On the other hand, the plot was
sparse, and confusing. The author would explain bits here,
and there, and then the rest would be up to your
interpretation.
His characters didn't have a lot of depth, they seemed
unnatural, unlike real people. Hamley didn't do a very good
job of getting into a young boys mindset. It sounded more
like an older man contained in a twelve-year-olds body.
The book didn't always make a whole lot of sense, definitely
an advanced read.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, USA
The Silver Kiss
Zoe is depressed. Her mother is spending weeks at a time in
the hospital because of Cancer. One day, she meets a boy.
His name is Simon. They start spending time together when
he tells her his secret. Simon is a vampire. His mother
was murdered years ago by a demonic vampire. It was this
vampire who changed Simon. Zoe must help Simon to avenge
his mother's death and find a way to help herself deal with
her mother's illness.
the hospital because of Cancer. One day, she meets a boy.
His name is Simon. They start spending time together when
he tells her his secret. Simon is a vampire. His mother
was murdered years ago by a demonic vampire. It was this
vampire who changed Simon. Zoe must help Simon to avenge
his mother's death and find a way to help herself deal with
her mother's illness.
This book is a definite read for any vampire romance
lovers. It ranks right up there with the Twilight series.
Simon is one of the most in-depth characters i have ever
come across. He was well thought out and described. Zoe
was the same way. She always seemed to be doing the thing
that her character would do, meaning, she would never go out
of character.
The book's plot was a little sparse. It was slow in the
beginning, and sped up in the end. In the beginning, Clause
paid much attention to detail. By the end, she wasn't
explaining herself fully. She left me with some unanswered
questions.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
It talks of love,kissing and sex.
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, USA
The King of Mulberry Street
In Napoli, Italy, a nine-year-old boy (later to be called
Dom) lived his regular life with his aunt, mother, uncle,
and younger siblings. But one day his mother woke him up
early, and suddenly set him on a ship straight to America.
Dom found himself alone on the streets of the strange town
the civilians called Five Points . Dom discovered friends on
the streets and realized that he had to rely on himself more
than on others. Even though he was Jewish, Dom was forced to
go to a Christian church and eat un-kosher foods. Soon he
settled into life and blended into the New York crowds. <
p>The King of Mulberry Street was amazingly written, and
suspense was included in all of the appropriate places to
polish it off. Donna Jo Napoli helps the reader visualize
the life of an orphan living on the streets in New York in
the 1890s. I think this novel could become a well-known
historical book about what life was like for nineteenth
century American immigrants. It might be as popular as the
novel Stones in Water, another one of Donna Jo Napoli's
books. The King of Mulberry Street is definitely a page turner.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Dom) lived his regular life with his aunt, mother, uncle,
and younger siblings. But one day his mother woke him up
early, and suddenly set him on a ship straight to America.
Dom found himself alone on the streets of the strange town
the civilians called Five Points . Dom discovered friends on
the streets and realized that he had to rely on himself more
than on others. Even though he was Jewish, Dom was forced to
go to a Christian church and eat un-kosher foods. Soon he
settled into life and blended into the New York crowds. <
p>The King of Mulberry Street was amazingly written, and
suspense was included in all of the appropriate places to
polish it off. Donna Jo Napoli helps the reader visualize
the life of an orphan living on the streets in New York in
the 1890s. I think this novel could become a well-known
historical book about what life was like for nineteenth
century American immigrants. It might be as popular as the
novel Stones in Water, another one of Donna Jo Napoli's
books. The King of Mulberry Street is definitely a page turner.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Some adult situations that some children may not understand.
Reviewer Age:11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Osseo, Wisconsin United
States
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Lily Dale: Awakening
A girl named Calla is recovering from her mother's recent death when she is sent to live with her Grandmother in a little town called Lilly Dale. Unbeknownst to her this town is a haven for mediums and clairvoyants who call themselves followers of Spiritualism. Calla is shocked when she learns this and she abruptly plans to leave. Suddenly however, she herself begins receiving visions from a missing girl. Will she be able to forget her misconceptions and trust her instincts? Read the book to find out.
This book was very good. It held my interest with an exciting mix of mystery, fantasy, and romance. Calla was a likable main character that had you rooting for her. The only thing I did find odd, if not necessarily bad, was the fact that the whole book was written in the present tense. Nonetheless, I would recommend this book as a well written and exciting novel.
There were points that contained descriptions of ghost that may be mildly scary for some readers. People may not be comfortable with the Spiritualism either.
e were points that contained descriptions of ghost that may be mildly scary for some readers. People may not be comfortable with the Spiritualism either.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA Franklin
Hot Mama
Fiona Fine, also known as Fiera, is one of the most famous
superheroes in the world. As part of the Fearless Five, she
has made it her mission to rid the world of ubervillians,
especially after her fiance was killed by one. After a year
of grieving, she decides that she needs to move on, and
happens to meet Johnny Bulluci at her friend Carmen's
wedding. While her love life slowly starts to improve, her
superhero life gets more complicated. Siren and Intelligal
are two villains intent on taking over the world and it's up
to Fiera and her fellow companions to stop them before it's
too late. But then another fighter, Johnny Angel, comes on
the scene and it's not to save the day, and rather causes
more trouble for the Fearless Five.
superheroes in the world. As part of the Fearless Five, she
has made it her mission to rid the world of ubervillians,
especially after her fiance was killed by one. After a year
of grieving, she decides that she needs to move on, and
happens to meet Johnny Bulluci at her friend Carmen's
wedding. While her love life slowly starts to improve, her
superhero life gets more complicated. Siren and Intelligal
are two villains intent on taking over the world and it's up
to Fiera and her fellow companions to stop them before it's
too late. But then another fighter, Johnny Angel, comes on
the scene and it's not to save the day, and rather causes
more trouble for the Fearless Five.
The last time I read anything with superheroes was back
in grade school. This new book gives a fresh look on a
rather childish idea, but this story isn't childish at all.
The story is filled with romance and action and makes a
great read for older readers. Once I started the book, I
couldn't put it down and read it pretty much in one sitting.
I'm excited to see that the author will continue to write
about superheroes and I look forward to seeing what Jennifer
Estep will come up with next.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
sex scenes
Reviewer Age:20
Reviewer City, State and Country: Philadelphia, PA USA
Friday, October 19, 2007
Peter Cameron
James Sveck, an eighteen year old misfit living in New York
City, doesn't know what to do with his life. Because he
doesn't like being around people his own age (or anyone,
really) he doesn't want to go to college, but his gallery
owning mother and lawyer father can't understand this. For
some reason everyone thinks that he's gay, his poodle hates
him, and his therapist wishes that he will stop being "too
clever for his own good." Of course, when you throw in a
gallery full of blasphemous trashcans, one hundred genius
government students, and a nasty trick played on a coworker,
James' life gets even worse- and running away is only
effective for so long.
City, doesn't know what to do with his life. Because he
doesn't like being around people his own age (or anyone,
really) he doesn't want to go to college, but his gallery
owning mother and lawyer father can't understand this. For
some reason everyone thinks that he's gay, his poodle hates
him, and his therapist wishes that he will stop being "too
clever for his own good." Of course, when you throw in a
gallery full of blasphemous trashcans, one hundred genius
government students, and a nasty trick played on a coworker,
James' life gets even worse- and running away is only
effective for so long.
This book was simply amazing. Incredibly reminiscent of
"Catcher in the Rye," it takes the classic's themes and
modernizes them in a wonderfully hilarious way. It is easy
to empathize with James, even though he is such an original
character that it would be hard to find something in common
with him. Though this book explores some deep matters and
is, in fact, entirely about James' mental turmoil as he
struggles with growing up and facing the world, it still
manages to be hilarious and easily readable. Besides
creating an intriguing book, this theme means that this book
will certainly be enjoyed by a wide range of readers,
especially teens. Be sure to pick up a copy of "Someday This
Pain Will Be Useful To You" as soon as you have a chance-
you won't regret it!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
This book contains much discussion of homosexuality and a
bit of cursing.
Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Ellicott City, Maryland
United States
Thursday, October 18, 2007
The Telling Pool
Rhodri Falcon gets lost at the village fair and meets a
blind blacksmith. The blacksmith tells him of the Telling
Pool, which is a magic spring that a few chosen people can
see the past, present, and future. Rhodri's father has to go
fight in the Crusades and Rhodri doesn't want to stay in the
village. He wants to be a hero. He learns information in the
pool and when his father comes back he is a bitter person.
Rhodri has to use the knowledge he learned to save his dad.
He must also find the one sword that will save his country.
Without taking on his destiny the whole country might die.
blind blacksmith. The blacksmith tells him of the Telling
Pool, which is a magic spring that a few chosen people can
see the past, present, and future. Rhodri's father has to go
fight in the Crusades and Rhodri doesn't want to stay in the
village. He wants to be a hero. He learns information in the
pool and when his father comes back he is a bitter person.
Rhodri has to use the knowledge he learned to save his dad.
He must also find the one sword that will save his country.
Without taking on his destiny the whole country might die.
I thought this book was an excellent read. The author
used many, many adjectives to describe the setting and it
was done extremely well. Not only was I visualizing the
setting, I could feel what was going on around me. The
narrator was very detailed in everything. My favorite part
of the whole story were the words. The writing was very
beautiful. I have never read a book that took place in this
time period so it was interesting to read about how people
acted and what they did. The story was very exciting and was
a page turner. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a
little bit of fantasy with adventure. It was wonderful!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania
United States
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
High Spirits
As children Maggie and Kate were big trouble makers. Leah,
who was much older, did not live with them. However, things
changed as they grew up. In the middle of the 19th century,
Maggie, Kate, and Leah managed to convince people of
knocking spirits and ghosts. As time went on, the knocking
ghost noises meant something different to each sister; some
scamming, some popularity, and some money. Many people found
them crazy and full of witchcraft, as their lies became a
way of life. Maggie met an arctic explorer who gave her a
chance to turn her life around from the lies and deceit. It
was time for her to decide how her whole life would turn
out. This book shows what family truly means to the
characters and lets them explore different worlds.
who was much older, did not live with them. However, things
changed as they grew up. In the middle of the 19th century,
Maggie, Kate, and Leah managed to convince people of
knocking spirits and ghosts. As time went on, the knocking
ghost noises meant something different to each sister; some
scamming, some popularity, and some money. Many people found
them crazy and full of witchcraft, as their lies became a
way of life. Maggie met an arctic explorer who gave her a
chance to turn her life around from the lies and deceit. It
was time for her to decide how her whole life would turn
out. This book shows what family truly means to the
characters and lets them explore different worlds.
The style of the work is original and different to read
but to put it frankly, I did not enjoy this type of book. I
found it drawn out and hard to stay focused while reading.
I also found it hard to review because of how drawn out it
was. The characters were great individuals, but the
vocabulary and whole theme of the book couldn't make me that
interested. My mindset is more on the creative, artistic
fiction, and science fiction types do not draw me in one
bit. This is just one persons review so I would recommend
that you look around at other reviews. It is a fine book
though, in itself.
This book deals with some stressful things as in infamy,
deceit and lies, and tedious scamming. Use best judgment.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: , Pennsylvania USA
Monday, October 15, 2007
Saving Zoe
It's been one year since the brutal murder of her older
sister, Zoe, and fifteen-year-old Echo is still reeling from
the aftermath. Her parents are numb, her friends are moving
on, and the awkward start of her freshman year proves she'll
never live up to her sister's memory. Until Zoe's former
boyfriend Marc shows up with Zoe's diary. At first Echo's
not interested, doubting there's anything in there she
doesn't already know. But when curiosity prevails, she
starts reading, becoming so immersed in her sister's secret
world, their lives begin to blur, forcing Echo to uncover
the truth behind Zoe's life so that she can start to rebuild
her own.
sister, Zoe, and fifteen-year-old Echo is still reeling from
the aftermath. Her parents are numb, her friends are moving
on, and the awkward start of her freshman year proves she'll
never live up to her sister's memory. Until Zoe's former
boyfriend Marc shows up with Zoe's diary. At first Echo's
not interested, doubting there's anything in there she
doesn't already know. But when curiosity prevails, she
starts reading, becoming so immersed in her sister's secret
world, their lives begin to blur, forcing Echo to uncover
the truth behind Zoe's life so that she can start to rebuild
her own.
Overall, I think Saving Zoe was a really good book. In
the beginning, things were a little slow. After Echo
received Zoe's diary, it became really interesting, the plot
got exciting, and I became engrossed in the book, barely
able to put it down. I thought the plot was very original.
It had a great combination of heartbreak and humor,
creating an awesome storyline. Alyson Noel's descriptions
of the characters and setting made me feel as if I were
actually in the novel. While reading Zoe's diary and what
was going on in Echo's life, I felt a deep connection with
them. They seemed so real with their complicated and
interesting lives. I really liked the ending, too, because
it tied up all loose ends and didn't leave me hanging.
Noel's writing was beautiful and powerful. From reading
this book, I have learned to appreciate the time I have
with my loved ones. I recommend this book to every teenager
out there!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
The book contained several accounts of underage drinking,
drugs, and sex.
Reviewer Age:16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, MO United States
The Lighthouse Land
The Lighthouse Land is about Jamie O'Neill, who had his arm
cut off to cure his cancer. Since then, he hasn't talked at
all. His mother inherits Muck Island in Ireland, and a
mysterious lighthouse lies on it. Jamie and his friend
Ramsay explore the lighthouse and find the Salmon, which
opens a wormhole to another world. On this world, Jamie
talks and has both arms. This world has an island nation
about to be attacked by the Alkhavans, a group of pirates
who use Iceships carved from glaciers. Jamie and Ramsay
meet Wishaway, an alien from Aldan, the island being
attacked. They save her father, Callaway, from the
Alkhavans. Then, a group of Aldans plan to overthrow the
Alkhavans. They want to make Greek Fire, an explosive that
would burn on ice. However, when they sneak into the city
to get one ingredient, they're captured. Meanwhile, the
Salmon is running out of energy. On their way to Alkhava,
the ship stops. Everyone has come down with the chicken
pox, and as no one except Ramsay, Jamie, and Wishaway, who
traveled through the Salmon's wormhole, has an immunity,
it's killing them. Jamie saves them with a syringe by
taking Wishaway's blood and injecting them. They go and are
about to capture the incapacitated Commander Ksar of the
Alkhavans when a group who hasn't succumbed to the pox
attacks them. However, Ksar attempts to use the Salmon, but
he wasn't in the right location. Therefore, it didn't work.
The leader of Alkhava then attacks, but the Aldans have
been cured and attack with Greek Fire. Then, Jamie, having
fallen in love with Wishaway, decides to stay while Ramsay
leaves. Unfortunately, he hears his mother screaming
through the wormhole and is forced to go. Ksar breaks from
his bonds but Jamie throws him off. Jamie saves his mother
and finally talks back on Earth. However, the Salmon is out
of power, so they can never return.
cut off to cure his cancer. Since then, he hasn't talked at
all. His mother inherits Muck Island in Ireland, and a
mysterious lighthouse lies on it. Jamie and his friend
Ramsay explore the lighthouse and find the Salmon, which
opens a wormhole to another world. On this world, Jamie
talks and has both arms. This world has an island nation
about to be attacked by the Alkhavans, a group of pirates
who use Iceships carved from glaciers. Jamie and Ramsay
meet Wishaway, an alien from Aldan, the island being
attacked. They save her father, Callaway, from the
Alkhavans. Then, a group of Aldans plan to overthrow the
Alkhavans. They want to make Greek Fire, an explosive that
would burn on ice. However, when they sneak into the city
to get one ingredient, they're captured. Meanwhile, the
Salmon is running out of energy. On their way to Alkhava,
the ship stops. Everyone has come down with the chicken
pox, and as no one except Ramsay, Jamie, and Wishaway, who
traveled through the Salmon's wormhole, has an immunity,
it's killing them. Jamie saves them with a syringe by
taking Wishaway's blood and injecting them. They go and are
about to capture the incapacitated Commander Ksar of the
Alkhavans when a group who hasn't succumbed to the pox
attacks them. However, Ksar attempts to use the Salmon, but
he wasn't in the right location. Therefore, it didn't work.
The leader of Alkhava then attacks, but the Aldans have
been cured and attack with Greek Fire. Then, Jamie, having
fallen in love with Wishaway, decides to stay while Ramsay
leaves. Unfortunately, he hears his mother screaming
through the wormhole and is forced to go. Ksar breaks from
his bonds but Jamie throws him off. Jamie saves his mother
and finally talks back on Earth. However, the Salmon is out
of power, so they can never return.
This was the best book I've ever read. It has romance,
action, and suspense. There's even some comic relief thrown
in. All of the characters are round and dynamic. They
change at every turn in the story. It's like no book I've
ever read. This gets a ten out of ten from me.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA USA
The Shadow World (The Eidolon Chronicles)
Ben Arnold's mother is going away. He's not happy about it,
but he knows she has to go. See, she's not just his slightly
wacky, laughing mom. She also happens to be Queen Isadora of
the Secret Country of Eidolon, and things in her kingdom are
not going well without her. So, Queen Isadora, Ben's mom,
needs to leave her husband and two of her three children
behind to go back to Eidolon and try to restore the balance
between the two worlds. She'll be taking baby Alice with her
as Alice, it seems, is destined to be the future Queen of
Eidolon.
Book II of the Eidolon Chronicles, THE SHADOW WORLD picks up
the story of the evil Dodman, a villain who's eight feet
tall and has the head of a dog. Dodman has enlisted a crew
of goblins, trolls, and an ugly giantess (who wears leather
and spikes!) in his quest to take over the Secret World. All
he needs to do is get Queen Isadora out of the way. With the
help of his sneaky ally, the Sphynx, Dodman puts his plan
into motion and Ben's sister Ellie, who doesn't share any of
their mother's magic is in real danger. Can Ben save Ellie?
Will Queen Isadore take her rightful place and restore peace
to her kingdom, or will Dodman and his dark minions be too
powerful to beat? Read the SHADOW WORLD to find out!
but he knows she has to go. See, she's not just his slightly
wacky, laughing mom. She also happens to be Queen Isadora of
the Secret Country of Eidolon, and things in her kingdom are
not going well without her. So, Queen Isadora, Ben's mom,
needs to leave her husband and two of her three children
behind to go back to Eidolon and try to restore the balance
between the two worlds. She'll be taking baby Alice with her
as Alice, it seems, is destined to be the future Queen of
Eidolon.
Book II of the Eidolon Chronicles, THE SHADOW WORLD picks up
the story of the evil Dodman, a villain who's eight feet
tall and has the head of a dog. Dodman has enlisted a crew
of goblins, trolls, and an ugly giantess (who wears leather
and spikes!) in his quest to take over the Secret World. All
he needs to do is get Queen Isadora out of the way. With the
help of his sneaky ally, the Sphynx, Dodman puts his plan
into motion and Ben's sister Ellie, who doesn't share any of
their mother's magic is in real danger. Can Ben save Ellie?
Will Queen Isadore take her rightful place and restore peace
to her kingdom, or will Dodman and his dark minions be too
powerful to beat? Read the SHADOW WORLD to find out!
I thought The Shadow World was pretty good. I liked the
personalities of all the characters, especially Iggy the
cat. I loved the way that Iggy could communicate with Ben
and his mom by talking to them. This was my favorite thing
about the story. This book would probably be a great read
for anyone who has read and enjoyed the Narnia Chronicles,
as it's got plenty of magic and fantasy. I would recommend
this book to readers ages 10 to 13, especially those who
enjoy fantasy and science fiction.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age:11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Saugerties, NY USA
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Dragonhaven by Robin McKinley
Dragonhaven is a first-person narrative story of a teenage boy who lives at a dragon preserve. Most of human society doesn't think much of dragons, so they're no longer around in most of the world. In Dragonhaven, Jake rescues an orphaned baby dragon. He raises the dragon, and realises that dragons are much more than most of the world seems to think. The entire book is written in Jake's voice--the voice of a teenage boy.
Dragonhaven didn't immediately grab me. I wasn't totally caught up in it from the first page, but once it got going, I did enjoy this novel. I liked the idea behind it, too. I just wasn't particularly thrilled with the voice of it, which may have been true enough to the character, but didn't make for a particularly good read. Good characters, good story, but Dragonhaven is just not the greatest narrative.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
Dragonhaven didn't immediately grab me. I wasn't totally caught up in it from the first page, but once it got going, I did enjoy this novel. I liked the idea behind it, too. I just wasn't particularly thrilled with the voice of it, which may have been true enough to the character, but didn't make for a particularly good read. Good characters, good story, but Dragonhaven is just not the greatest narrative.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
Runnerland by John Burns
Peter is a normal high school kid, just trying to get through life. Suddenly, his dad dies and makes everything change. While looking for something, Peter discovers that he is adopted! He decided this was a big thing that his parents didnt tell him, so he decides to run away from home. Peter ends up being involved with a guy who is involved with gangs, but will this change Peter? Will he give into what he trys to tell him?
I really enjoyed this book. The author really made it so I knew exactly what Peter was going through. It was also like I could feel everything that was being described throughout the book. The main character, Peter was very realistic sounding. He goes through many things in the book that an average teenager goes through. I think that the vocabulary used in this book was appropriate; it wasn't for a little kid, but it wasn't too bad. There wasnt much swearing in this book, which made me happy. I would recommend this book to others because it is a good book to read if you are wondering what some people go through. I know for me it was a change because I never realized that people actually have to go through things like this.Overall, I enjoyed reading this book.
Content: There is some swearing in this book, and some violence.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Newville, PA USA
I really enjoyed this book. The author really made it so I knew exactly what Peter was going through. It was also like I could feel everything that was being described throughout the book. The main character, Peter was very realistic sounding. He goes through many things in the book that an average teenager goes through. I think that the vocabulary used in this book was appropriate; it wasn't for a little kid, but it wasn't too bad. There wasnt much swearing in this book, which made me happy. I would recommend this book to others because it is a good book to read if you are wondering what some people go through. I know for me it was a change because I never realized that people actually have to go through things like this.Overall, I enjoyed reading this book.
Content: There is some swearing in this book, and some violence.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Newville, PA USA
Grains Of Sand: The Fall Of Neve Dekalim
In Israel, an average family of two children and two parents
are living in Gush Katif. The two children, Yair and Efrat,
are growing up as all children do, but with one large
difference: the Disengagement is looming over their studies
and every-day life. Their parents, Yoram and Miri, are doing
their best to maintain a healthy lifestyle, but when the
family finds gun shots at night normal, perhaps it is time
to become worried. Yair, Efrat's younger brother, finds his
new hobby as finding live bullets, while Efrat goes into
recession, trying to escape all the Disengagement horror...
while their government crumbles around them.
are living in Gush Katif. The two children, Yair and Efrat,
are growing up as all children do, but with one large
difference: the Disengagement is looming over their studies
and every-day life. Their parents, Yoram and Miri, are doing
their best to maintain a healthy lifestyle, but when the
family finds gun shots at night normal, perhaps it is time
to become worried. Yair, Efrat's younger brother, finds his
new hobby as finding live bullets, while Efrat goes into
recession, trying to escape all the Disengagement horror...
while their government crumbles around them.
Grains of Sand begins a little too calmly. However, once
I got four chapters into the book, it began to pick up the
pace. The descriptions of all the different objects were
wonderful, ranging from a bloodied moon to a fluffy dog. The
action was wonderful (once four chapters in), ranging from a
peaceful walk across sand dunes to a protest led by
teenagers. And most of all, the psychological message was
powerful. All at the same time, it informed me of the
happiness of a regular family, moving onto the frustration
and anger of that same family, all because of a government
that could not sustain itself. Grains of Sand closely
follows the story of a once happy community destroyed by
powerful outsiders.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Eagle Creek, OR USA
Cover-Up
Stevie and Susan are teen writers and stars of a new TV
show, Kids-Sports. They go to lots of events as reporters,
but it seems wherever they are a deep, dark secret is
uncovered. But, this time, during the Super Bowl it's not
going to happen. I mean it's the Super Bowl, what could go
wrong? Because of a slinky business deal Susan and Stevie
aren't working with each other. They soon realize that the
only way their problems can be solved is if they work as a
pair. The hard part is everyone around them doesn't want
them working together....
show, Kids-Sports. They go to lots of events as reporters,
but it seems wherever they are a deep, dark secret is
uncovered. But, this time, during the Super Bowl it's not
going to happen. I mean it's the Super Bowl, what could go
wrong? Because of a slinky business deal Susan and Stevie
aren't working with each other. They soon realize that the
only way their problems can be solved is if they work as a
pair. The hard part is everyone around them doesn't want
them working together....
This book was a delightful read for me since I absolutely
love football. Even though Stevie is the opposite gender of
me, I felt at many points I could really relate to his life
and thoughts. I believe any football or sports fan would
enjoy Cover-Up and want more when it's done. This is John
Feinstein's third book about Stevie and Susan and definitely
my favorite. A bit of language and boyfriend/girlfriend
content, but overall a very suitable book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Durham, NC USA
Friday, October 12, 2007
Sebastian Darke: Prince of Fools
Sebastian Darke: Prince of Fools is about a young half-elf
jester whose father has recently died. Sebastian embarks on
an adventure to the kingdom of Keladon to seek employment,
which his father never got to finish. Along the way,
Sebastian (and his pessimistic buffalope, Max) meet a
Golmirian warrior named Cornelius and a spoiled princess
named Kerin. Sebastian is shocked to learn that Kerin is the
niece of King Septimus of Keladon. After saving Princess
Kerin from the barbaric brigands and wolflike lupers, they
get to Keladon and are welcomed by Septimus. But little do
they know that the treacherous King Septimus is plotting
against them...
jester whose father has recently died. Sebastian embarks on
an adventure to the kingdom of Keladon to seek employment,
which his father never got to finish. Along the way,
Sebastian (and his pessimistic buffalope, Max) meet a
Golmirian warrior named Cornelius and a spoiled princess
named Kerin. Sebastian is shocked to learn that Kerin is the
niece of King Septimus of Keladon. After saving Princess
Kerin from the barbaric brigands and wolflike lupers, they
get to Keladon and are welcomed by Septimus. But little do
they know that the treacherous King Septimus is plotting
against them...
I loved Sebastian Darke: Prince of Fools! It was filled
with action, comedy, suspense, and even drama! It had an
entertaining, if unfortunately, slightly predictable plot.
However, if you can make it past the first two chapters, the
plot gets a bit more interesting with the addition of new
characters and different segments to the adventure. The
characters are colorful and even though there is so much
going on that is fantastical in nature, the author manages
to keep it grounded in a way that makes it believable. It
was interesting to see the way the characters change
subtlety over the course of the book, too. If you want a
good, entertaining book, Sebastian Darke: Prince of Fools is
the way to go.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Saugerties, NY USA
Speak Easy
Speak Easy is an informational book comprised of 52 ideas to
help you become a better public speaker. Along with the
main text of each chapter, small bits and ideas are scrolled
along the margins. Also, each chapter concludes with a
question and answer page. Idea topics ranging from the
events at which you choose to speak, to handling a
technological failure during your presentation are
discussed. The author offers stories, anecdotes, and
easy-to-remember statements in order to make you a better
public speaker.
help you become a better public speaker. Along with the
main text of each chapter, small bits and ideas are scrolled
along the margins. Also, each chapter concludes with a
question and answer page. Idea topics ranging from the
events at which you choose to speak, to handling a
technological failure during your presentation are
discussed. The author offers stories, anecdotes, and
easy-to-remember statements in order to make you a better
public speaker.
I thought this was a very informative book. The author
really covered all aspects of public speaking in presenting
the 52 ideas. This book is one of a series that portrays
the theme of 52 ideas. I really liked how the author
incorporated smaller ideas into the main idea of each
chapter. It allows readers to choose which ideas they like
and wish to try. The flexibility of this book is its
strongest asset. At first, I didn't agree with some of the
points the author was making, and I was left wondering about
the consistency of the arguments. However, I realized the
author's purpose, and can now understand and appreciate the
basis of the book. This book would be great for all
speakers, but I highly recommend it for beginner and
intermediate level speakers.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age:17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Eden Prairie ,
Minnesota United States
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
The Case Against My Brother
Carl Matsuki and his brother Adam are living in Portland,
Oregon with their Uncle Pete ever since their mom died.
Adam has always been the one that Carl relied upon,
especially now, being Polish Catholics living in an
anti-immigrant, anti-Catholic area. However, Carl's world
is turned upside down when his brother is accused of
robbery. Carl sets out to clear his brother's name, but
uncovers a secret underworld on his journey. He takes
charge to help his brother, even if he must witness
blackmail and murder to do so.
Oregon with their Uncle Pete ever since their mom died.
Adam has always been the one that Carl relied upon,
especially now, being Polish Catholics living in an
anti-immigrant, anti-Catholic area. However, Carl's world
is turned upside down when his brother is accused of
robbery. Carl sets out to clear his brother's name, but
uncovers a secret underworld on his journey. He takes
charge to help his brother, even if he must witness
blackmail and murder to do so.
This book was a thought-provoking novel. I learned a lot about the time period it was set in. However, the story seemed too short. There is very little actual action. Most of the novel just seems to describe the time period and the characters. It was still good, but could have used more of a plot and more action.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Royersford, PA United States
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Spanking Shakespeare by Jake Wizner
Spanking Shakespeare is an amusing, and witty book. It is written in first person, as a boy who is trying to survive his senior year in high school. The boy writes memoirs, college essays, and obituaries for his classes. It seems like his life is just one big joke. (He hates his name, he was born on Hilter's birthday, he doesn't have a girlfriend, and he still can't figure out how to blow his nose!) I think Jake Wizner is a talented author, because he teaches us that it's okay to laugh at ourselves once in a while!
When I first started reading Spanking Shakespeare, I thought it was a funny and an interesting book. But as I read further some of the content was inappropriate for girls my age. The book got to a point where I did not feel comfortable reading it any more. I would suggest that the author cut out some of the offensive parts, and replace them with his hilarious jokes. Also I would change the age group to 14 years and older, and direct it to male readers.
Content: See my review.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Renton, WA USA
When I first started reading Spanking Shakespeare, I thought it was a funny and an interesting book. But as I read further some of the content was inappropriate for girls my age. The book got to a point where I did not feel comfortable reading it any more. I would suggest that the author cut out some of the offensive parts, and replace them with his hilarious jokes. Also I would change the age group to 14 years and older, and direct it to male readers.
Content: See my review.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Renton, WA USA
The Hollywood Sisters: Caught On Tape by Mary Wilcox
Jessica and Eva are back, doing what they do best. Jessica has to find out who is in charge of the tour buses that are wreaking havoc among the celebrity neighborhoods, and also, how to stop them! And Eva is under more pressure then ever, trying to make her televsion series Two Sisters gain ratings, otherwise (*gasp*) Two Sisters may have to stop the shows altogether. Of course, Eva still has time to find the perfect boyfriend for Jessica. But who will Mr. Right be? Jessica's celebrity crush or a made-up man named heathcliff.
The Hollywood sister:Caught on Tape is a funny, realistic story that makes you feel as if you were right next to each character as different disasters occur. Mary Wilcox makes you feel the humilation and joy that emits from the Ortiz sisters everyday. Well-written. The only thing I didn't like about the book was that, thanks to the title, you could figure out how the culprit works way before the main characters did. But other than that, it was one of the best books I have read recently, and I am sure hundreds of others will feel the same way!
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona Unites States of America
The Hollywood sister:Caught on Tape is a funny, realistic story that makes you feel as if you were right next to each character as different disasters occur. Mary Wilcox makes you feel the humilation and joy that emits from the Ortiz sisters everyday. Well-written. The only thing I didn't like about the book was that, thanks to the title, you could figure out how the culprit works way before the main characters did. But other than that, it was one of the best books I have read recently, and I am sure hundreds of others will feel the same way!
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona Unites States of America
The Boys Next Door by Jennifer Echols
Which boy will she choose? Lori loves to swim, wakeboard, and hang out with her friends at her lakeside home. She and her neighbors, the Vader boys, are terrific friends and love to spend the hot, humid summer days together. Lori and Adam, the youngest Vader brother, are inseparable friends who do everything together; although she can’t deny her crush for Adam’s older brother, Sean. She’ll do anything to get his attention, even if it means “fake” dating Adam, which involves making out with the boy who she has always considered to almost be her brother. After realizing that getting Sean’s attention is going to take a lot more work than expected, she decides to crank things up a notch with her and Adam’s relationship. After taking things to the next level she realizes that maybe it’s not Sean that she wants after all. But even if it is, she has gone too far to turn back now--or has she?
I really enjoyed The Boys Next Door because it mixed the right amount of romance, suspense, and irony to get the perfect concoction. The author, Jennifer Echols, picked a wonderful theme for the plot of this amazing story. I loved this book so much that I couldn’t put it down, and I stayed up for hours into the night and lost a ton of sleep just to find out what would happen next. This is a great read year-round that will get your love life sizzlin’. I recommend The Boys Next Door to teenage girls who love reading novels that have a twist of a romantic conflict.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA United States
Queen Geeks In Love by Laura Preble
The Queen Geek Social Club, started last year by Shelby and her friend, Becca, seems to be getting bigger. With 2 other officers and a new plan to start a website, things seem to be going great. But when boys are factored in, everything seems to go downhill. Shelby is happy with her boyfriend, Fletcher, though she thinks they’re getting serious way too fast. The problem really lies with Jon, their comic book designer, who has two queen geeks fighting for him. As the summer comes to an end, the girls realize that they need to come up with a new and exciting project. That’s when they come up with Geekfest, a talent show to showcase all the best geeky talents their high school can offer. But as the year goes by, the girls realize that they should stay true to their geeky selves and not let anyone, especially guys, come between their friendship.
The next adventure in the Queen Geeks books was just as entertaining as the original. Laura Preble’s writing style is comical and the plot kept me interested until the very end. Shelby is a likeable character and I think many girls can relate to her. I would definitely recommend this to teens who are looking for a light, entertaining read. I hope the author will continue to write about the Queen Geeks.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 20
Reviewer City, State and Country: Philadelphia, PA USA
Monday, October 08, 2007
Beyond Cool
Beyond Cool is the second book about Floe Ryan, a thawed
"frozen zombie." That's her term for it, but really Floe was
preserved after her death (vitrified, or "frozen,") which
happened about this time, and then "thawed" a decade later.
Even though it's only ten years, things are a lot different.
For one thing, Floe's younger sister, Sunny, is now her
older sister! Also, people don't drive anymore--they
hoverdrive (something Floe's having a bit of a problem
with). Teachers and movie stars are computer-generated.
Luckily, Floe's got another frozen zombie to help her deal
with all of this--her boyfriend, Taz. Of course, when Taz
starts acting kind of distant, and Floe finds out that she
and her fellow frozen zombies are suffering from weak immune
systems that make them susceptible to major diseases, plus she's having trouble learning to hoverdrive, life as a
teenage popsicle is less than fabulous.
"frozen zombie." That's her term for it, but really Floe was
preserved after her death (vitrified, or "frozen,") which
happened about this time, and then "thawed" a decade later.
Even though it's only ten years, things are a lot different.
For one thing, Floe's younger sister, Sunny, is now her
older sister! Also, people don't drive anymore--they
hoverdrive (something Floe's having a bit of a problem
with). Teachers and movie stars are computer-generated.
Luckily, Floe's got another frozen zombie to help her deal
with all of this--her boyfriend, Taz. Of course, when Taz
starts acting kind of distant, and Floe finds out that she
and her fellow frozen zombies are suffering from weak immune
systems that make them susceptible to major diseases, plus she's having trouble learning to hoverdrive, life as a
teenage popsicle is less than fabulous.
Beyond Cool is just as good as the first book in the series,
I Was A Teenage Popsicle (which I recommend you read first).
The characters are wonderful, and the premise of the book is
highly original. It's a quick read, and well-written. Beyond
Cool is a funny, interesting story. It's sci-fi, yeah, but
it's also a very human story, and one that I highly
recommend!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 16
>Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
Balancing Acts
A winter to remember. Or else a winter to forget. Harley,
Dove, and Melissa arrive from three different parts of the
country to begin their jobs at a ski resort in the Alps.
Each girl has a secret they want kept in the past, as
they begin a week full of work, fun, and romance.
Harley has a mission here--she knows what she wants and she
knows how to get it. For Dove, this week is just seven days
away from her wonderful vacation with her far-away
boyfriend. Melissa has other plans, she has taken this job
to forget the past and begin anew--but will the past creep
up on her? As tasty as the treats Melissa serves, as wild as
the parties Harley attends, and as mysterious as Dove
herself, Balancing Acts throws readers into a winter
wonderland of fun and romance.
Dove, and Melissa arrive from three different parts of the
country to begin their jobs at a ski resort in the Alps.
Each girl has a secret they want kept in the past, as
they begin a week full of work, fun, and romance.
Harley has a mission here--she knows what she wants and she
knows how to get it. For Dove, this week is just seven days
away from her wonderful vacation with her far-away
boyfriend. Melissa has other plans, she has taken this job
to forget the past and begin anew--but will the past creep
up on her? As tasty as the treats Melissa serves, as wild as
the parties Harley attends, and as mysterious as Dove
herself, Balancing Acts throws readers into a winter
wonderland of fun and romance.
Balancing Acts presents three different girls, each with their own story, and twists them all into one. Harley, the wild child, becomes a lovable
character without whom the story could not blend. Melissa
and Dove are both sweethearts maturing and understanding
more about themselves and past experiences as the winter
progresses.
Emily Franklin presents heartwarming characters as well as
an adventurous plot that becomes wild with romantic twists
and gives the reader a chance to imagine a life of hard work
and secrets blended into one. The beginning tale of Harley,
Dove, and Melissa is worth reading--just grab a mug of hot
chocolate and sit by the fire and you are set to go.
This is a book centered on three eighteen (or nineteen) year old
girls. A prominent theme in the plot is sensuality.
Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country:
Concord, MA, 01742 United States
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
The Cloud Chamber by Joyce Maynard
When Nate Chance arrived home from school, he new something was wrong. There were multiple police cars and an ambulance at his house. As he got off the bus, he saw his dad being supported by two police officers. Then he noticed the blood dripping down his fathers face. Nate soon discovers that his dad tried to commit suicide. Nate’s father is alive, but unfortunately has no recollection of the event. The police are blaming Nate’s mother, accusing her of attempted murder. No one in his family will talk about what happened, and they will not even allow Nate and his sister Junie to visit their father. Nate’s mother pretends like her husband never existed and acts like nothing has happened. Nate begins to grow frustrated and upset, so he tries to take matters into his own hands, even committing crimes.
The Cloud Chamber by Joyce Maynard is an emotional drama depicting a family’s tragedy, through a child’s eyes. It is a heart wrenching account of a boy who is struggling to understand his family’s reaction to his father’s attempt at suicide. This well written book will likely bring you to tears. I enjoyed reading The Cloud Chamber because it demonstrated many good life lessons regarding honesty and morality. In addition, it gave you a perspective of how children really feel in difficult situations, showing a child’s powerless position as well intentioned parents make horrible mistakes. Although this was an excellent book, I was extremely disappointed in the conclusion of the story.
Content: The father in the story shot himself, so the book is slightly graphic and very depressing.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Lemoore, CA USA
The Cloud Chamber by Joyce Maynard is an emotional drama depicting a family’s tragedy, through a child’s eyes. It is a heart wrenching account of a boy who is struggling to understand his family’s reaction to his father’s attempt at suicide. This well written book will likely bring you to tears. I enjoyed reading The Cloud Chamber because it demonstrated many good life lessons regarding honesty and morality. In addition, it gave you a perspective of how children really feel in difficult situations, showing a child’s powerless position as well intentioned parents make horrible mistakes. Although this was an excellent book, I was extremely disappointed in the conclusion of the story.
Content: The father in the story shot himself, so the book is slightly graphic and very depressing.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Lemoore, CA USA
Lizard People by Charlie Price
For the past few years, Ben's mother has been growing steadily stranger. She talks of lizards dressed as people, who hate the color red and can only be identified by a seam in the back of their mouths. She has even gone so far as to attack people in searching for the proof that they are lizards bent on destroying the human race, and has been hospitalized quite a few times. And now Ben's father has walked out- so what's a seventeen year old boy to do when left to take care of a crazy woman? But that's when Ben meets Marco, who claims to have just moved in and have an ill mother himself. This arouses Ben's curiosity, and he eagerly befriends the strange older boy. Marco has a problem, and Ben thinks that he might be able to help- but he never expected that the problem would involve a story about wormholes in oak trees and a civilization two thousand years in the future, and Ben certainly hadn't predicted that Marco's story would strangely mirror his own life.
I expected to love this book. But, to begin with, I wasn't so sure. The writing style is juvenile and awkward, and I found the protagonist boring and hard to relate to (he is solely described as a fly fishing wrestler with a crush on his best friend's older sister.) Marco's story seemed out of place, and was so much more interesting than the rest of the book that I wished that Ben's life would stop butting in. However, as the book went on it got more interesting, and I realized that, somehow, I had begun enjoying it! Though the beginning drags and the prose is annoying, the story is worth reading for its insightful exploration of mental illness and its intriguing combination of time travel and realistic fiction. Overall, while this book is nothing amazing, it is certainly a worthwhile read for science fiction readers or fans of Charlie Price's first book.
Content:3This book contains teenage drug use on two occasions, drug use by a character's parent, talk of a woman committing suicide, and a character's role model having sex in exchange for drugs.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Columbia, United States
I expected to love this book. But, to begin with, I wasn't so sure. The writing style is juvenile and awkward, and I found the protagonist boring and hard to relate to (he is solely described as a fly fishing wrestler with a crush on his best friend's older sister.) Marco's story seemed out of place, and was so much more interesting than the rest of the book that I wished that Ben's life would stop butting in. However, as the book went on it got more interesting, and I realized that, somehow, I had begun enjoying it! Though the beginning drags and the prose is annoying, the story is worth reading for its insightful exploration of mental illness and its intriguing combination of time travel and realistic fiction. Overall, while this book is nothing amazing, it is certainly a worthwhile read for science fiction readers or fans of Charlie Price's first book.
Content:3This book contains teenage drug use on two occasions, drug use by a character's parent, talk of a woman committing suicide, and a character's role model having sex in exchange for drugs.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Columbia, United States
Friends and Enemies by David Field
Tommy is a normal 15 year-old boy living in 21st century England. He lives with his Mummy and Daddy, and they go on vacations just like all families do. While on vacation in a chateau in France, something strange happens. The house is more like a castle, with big towers and old pictures; and one of these pictures draws Tommy’s attention more then the others. It’s a picture of a girl—roughly Tommy’s age—from over 400 years ago. The strange part happens next; and Tommy is magnetically drawn back into the year 1599. Tommy is confused, but he goes with the flow of whatever is happening to him. He actually thinks it’s kind of cool. But then Tommy and the girl in the painting run off together for adventures, and that’s where all of the fun begins. Tommy still has his cell phone from the 21st century, which may be his key back to his world…
I really liked how David Field was able to bring a lot of history into this book and still keep it modern. It was neat when Tommy was staying in the house in the 21st century and then he stayed in the house back 400 years. I didn’t really care for the writer’s style, though. David Field went a little too fast, not explaining things where he should, and also made things very unrealistic. Tommy also wasn’t a character I could very easily relate to; he fell in love almost immediately with the girl in the picture, which was a little strange. All in all, I didn’t particularly care for this book, but someone with a love for Sci-Fi historical fiction might enjoy it a little more.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 2
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Boothwyn, PA US
I really liked how David Field was able to bring a lot of history into this book and still keep it modern. It was neat when Tommy was staying in the house in the 21st century and then he stayed in the house back 400 years. I didn’t really care for the writer’s style, though. David Field went a little too fast, not explaining things where he should, and also made things very unrealistic. Tommy also wasn’t a character I could very easily relate to; he fell in love almost immediately with the girl in the picture, which was a little strange. All in all, I didn’t particularly care for this book, but someone with a love for Sci-Fi historical fiction might enjoy it a little more.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 2
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Boothwyn, PA US
Demon Envy by Erin Lynn
Kenzie is a regular sixteen year old girl who doesn't really fit into her world. She isn't perfest like her little sister and the guy she likes won't give her a second look, or even a first look at that. One day when Kenzie drops face cream in her tub, a demon portal is opened and she unleashed a demon named Levi. Levi is supposed to make her envious of everyone else's life, so he decides to make her life tourture. First, he becomes the most popular guy in her school after about 3 weeks of being there. Second, he takes the most popular girl in school to the Homecoming dance. Third, he makes the guy that she likes ask her to the Homecoming, so Kenzie doesn't think he likes her. The most important f all is that she has to close the demon portal before even more demons are unleashed into the world.
This book is one of the best I have read in a while, but it does have its downpoints. I do not believe the book is for the age group that it was preposed for: the writing is a bit to big for young adults and the novel is a VERY short read. I do think the story line is really intersting and I can't wait for the author to come out with the next book in the series. The best part of the entire book, in my opinion, is when she first meets Levi. At first, she thinks he's a dream and she has sort of a mini panic attack. At the same to of her 'issue', Levi is trying to calm her down and show that he isn't a dream, and it turns into quite a bit of a fight. My favorite character would have to be Kenzie because she is so sarcastic and really funny, but her only downfall is that she doesn't have a very good self-image. I love the way the author developed the characters and made them seem like real life people.
Content:2The book talks about hell and demons.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Pottstown, PA United States
This book is one of the best I have read in a while, but it does have its downpoints. I do not believe the book is for the age group that it was preposed for: the writing is a bit to big for young adults and the novel is a VERY short read. I do think the story line is really intersting and I can't wait for the author to come out with the next book in the series. The best part of the entire book, in my opinion, is when she first meets Levi. At first, she thinks he's a dream and she has sort of a mini panic attack. At the same to of her 'issue', Levi is trying to calm her down and show that he isn't a dream, and it turns into quite a bit of a fight. My favorite character would have to be Kenzie because she is so sarcastic and really funny, but her only downfall is that she doesn't have a very good self-image. I love the way the author developed the characters and made them seem like real life people.
Content:2The book talks about hell and demons.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Pottstown, PA United States
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Jumper:Griffin's Story by Steven Gould
Griffin O'Connor is completely normal in all respects - except that he can instantly teleport to any place he has visited before. When he was five, he accidentally "jumped." Since then, his life has never been the same. A group of men is out to kill him, and he and his parents move around a lot. He learns to control his jumps. One day, when he was nine, he flinched away from a bully at school - all the way home. That night, some men came to his house. They murdered his parents, but he jumped away. These men could sense whenever he jumped within a certain radius of him. Griffin is rescued by Sam and Consuelo, two hispanics who search for people stranded in the desert. They didn't turn him in, so Griffin lives with them for a while. After returning to his flat and having it blown up, Griffin is taken to Mexico to live with Alejandra, Consuelo's cousin. Griffin is happy for a few years, but then the group of people found him because he had fillings and they used his name. The group tracked him, but he escaped and they didn't know about Alejandra. Then, Griffin decides to live on his own, so as not to put others in danger. He takes an abandoned mine in the desert as his home. Griffin buys a generator and a lot of things needed to survive, and he lives there after blowing up the entrance, so only he can get in or out. Then, Griffin is happy for a while, jumping all over the world and sketching places so he can jump there again. All the while, he kept in touch with Sam and Consuelo. Then, the group of men, who Griffin now knows are called "Paladins," find and kill Sam and Consuelo. After relocating Alejandra and overcoming his grief, he decides to continue his lifestyle. In France, he meets an American, E.V. Kelson. He and E.V. fall in love over the next few months. One day, they went to a dance. Unfortunately, E.V. had been threatened by the Paladins to kill Griffin or her parents would die. Griffin talked her out of it and saved her mother and brother, but her father was already dead. Mortified, Griffin severs ties with E.V. Then, Griffin lures some Paladins to his "Hole" and traps them in it. Once they were in, he opens some propane tanks and lights a few candles and jumps out. All but one of the Paladins die. Griffin learned from one man that they were lead by a man named Roland, but nothing else.
Jumper: Griffin's Story is a great book. It takes place in the present, and it's about an ordinary kid with extraordinary powers. Griffin is such a dynamic and round character that it feels like he is an actual person. Each time someone close dies, he learns a lesson and changes a bit. It's like no story I've ever read. This book gets a ten out of ten from me.
Content: Strong language, Sexual content
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA U.S.
Jumper: Griffin's Story is a great book. It takes place in the present, and it's about an ordinary kid with extraordinary powers. Griffin is such a dynamic and round character that it feels like he is an actual person. Each time someone close dies, he learns a lesson and changes a bit. It's like no story I've ever read. This book gets a ten out of ten from me.
Content: Strong language, Sexual content
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA U.S.
The Curse of the Campfire Weenies: And Other Warpe by David Lubar
The Curse of the campfire weenies was an exciting collection of warped and creepy tales that sent chills up your spine. The book includes thirty-five tales, some of which are scary, many funny, and others just plain odd. You’ll learn about the frightening Wanderban, what happens when parents count to three, and why some trees can be “unforgiving”. Why do pigeons live in the city, and what happens with magic chalk? You’ll find all the answers and more in the Curse of the Campfire Weenies.
This was indeed a collection of “warped” tales. I liked it because I could relate to most of the stories. Some of them were silly like I mentioned, but others I didn’t understand. I especially liked the last story, Forgotten Monsters, it was creative and hilarious and scary all at the same time. I could actually feel the chill going down my back. I would recommend this book to anyone, except for adults, it’s too silly. Since I read the first two books in the series, I really enjoyed and had respect for the Curse of the Campfire Weenies. It was definitely a great book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
This was indeed a collection of “warped” tales. I liked it because I could relate to most of the stories. Some of them were silly like I mentioned, but others I didn’t understand. I especially liked the last story, Forgotten Monsters, it was creative and hilarious and scary all at the same time. I could actually feel the chill going down my back. I would recommend this book to anyone, except for adults, it’s too silly. Since I read the first two books in the series, I really enjoyed and had respect for the Curse of the Campfire Weenies. It was definitely a great book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Oblivion Road by Alex McAulay
One cold, snowy day in Colorado five high school friends are coming home from a fun-filled day at the ski resort. However, the trip home does not go as planned when they hit a deer and completely tumble down the side of the huge hill. Hours later Courtey wakes up and doesn't know why she is laying in snow. Jeremy comes to help her and explains what happened. Slowly, everything started coming back to her. The other three friends were still trapped in the car and they had to go back to get them. Although they are near death, when a strange figure starts crawling towards them they decide to help him out because otherwise he would die. They learn that he is an escaped convict who got stuck in the storm. More horrible things happen including someone watching them in the woods. When surviving gets even tougher, everyone starts fighting for their lives and fighting each other. Who will be able to make it back to civilization...alive
I really liked this book by Alex McAulay. It is a really great survival book that isn't just about survival. There are problems that deal with that, but there are even more that deal with friendship and other issues. I really liked the beginning of the book because it starts out explaining that a character is very injured but we don't know why! Things like this force you to read on to figure out what will happen next. It was a pretty quick read with a great variety of vocabulary involved. Another thing I liked a lot about Oblivion Road was that at the end of each chapter, it always left you hanging so you would need to read into the next chapter to figure out your questions. Overall, this was a really great book for people who like survival or friendship stories.
Every once in a while there is a little bit of swearing.
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America
I really liked this book by Alex McAulay. It is a really great survival book that isn't just about survival. There are problems that deal with that, but there are even more that deal with friendship and other issues. I really liked the beginning of the book because it starts out explaining that a character is very injured but we don't know why! Things like this force you to read on to figure out what will happen next. It was a pretty quick read with a great variety of vocabulary involved. Another thing I liked a lot about Oblivion Road was that at the end of each chapter, it always left you hanging so you would need to read into the next chapter to figure out your questions. Overall, this was a really great book for people who like survival or friendship stories.
Every once in a while there is a little bit of swearing.
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America
The Tree Shepherd's Daughter: The Faire Folk Trilo by Gillian Summers
When fifteen-year-old Keelie Heartwood’s mother dies, she is forced to leave her adored California home to live with her insane father at an unrealistic renaissance faire in Colorado. Once she and her escort Mrs. Talbot arrive they start their pursuit for Keelie’s dad in the enormous faire. While searching, Keelie strays and ends up in a majestic fragranced herb shop, but before she gets to explore it, she hears the already angry Mrs. Talbot yelling for her. Once outside she meets many strange people including: mud wrestlers, a snobby, stuck-up fairy princess, an outrageously handsome prince, and of course her father, Zeke. Keelie and her longtime best friend start working on a plan to get her out of this bizarre medieval world filled with freaks-of-nature and back into her beloved state of California. While in the process of plotting her great escape, strange and mysterious things start to occur, and after learning the hidden secret that she’s half elf she doesn’t think she will ever get to return to California. Instead she’ll be discovering the mysteries of the faire, fighting bad guys, and trying to win the heart of her knight in shining armor. So if she thinks she’ll get to sit back, relax, and enjoy the faire, she had better guess again.
I really enjoyed the plot that the author, Gillian Summers, chose for this fantastic fantasy called The Tree Shepherd’s Daughter: The Faire Folk Trilogy. This is one of my favorite books that I have ever read because it was a pretty “clean” book, it had a wonderful plot, and was an overall spectacular novel. I really like how the author decided to make this book into a series and it had a great ending that makes you want to know what will happen in the next story. I can’t wait until the next book comes out and I want to read it ASAP! This is a must-read for all of the book lovers like me out there. I recommend this fabulous novel to everyone but mainly to those who are intrigued by fantasy.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA USA
I really enjoyed the plot that the author, Gillian Summers, chose for this fantastic fantasy called The Tree Shepherd’s Daughter: The Faire Folk Trilogy. This is one of my favorite books that I have ever read because it was a pretty “clean” book, it had a wonderful plot, and was an overall spectacular novel. I really like how the author decided to make this book into a series and it had a great ending that makes you want to know what will happen in the next story. I can’t wait until the next book comes out and I want to read it ASAP! This is a must-read for all of the book lovers like me out there. I recommend this fabulous novel to everyone but mainly to those who are intrigued by fantasy.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA USA
Saturday, September 29, 2007
The Chess Set in the Mirror
The book starts out with a bored young boy sitting in a room. He seems to be in punishment, and has received instructions to not break the mirror in the room, which otherwise only sports a chess set and a chair. Bored, he appears to begin daydreaming, or hallucinating, or actually dreaming, and the white king piece begins talking to him. Events lead into events, and very soon, he's in the mirror, talking to the chess pieces, his mysteriously young grandmother, and a thief. It's only then that he learns that inside the mirror are all the reflections of a person when they first looked into it. Eventually, though, he's awakened, and let out of the room by his mother.
I wonder if the translation is word for word; occasionally, artistic merit can be lost if that's done. I really wasn't terribly fond of the book. It was, perhaps, too redundant, and the storyline seems a little too much like Into the Looking-glass to seem terribly original to me. However, it's written in a very nice way, considering the narrator, and it's clear that it's more of a memory than something that's actually happening. The redundancy does seem a lot like memory, and I appreciate this, although it wasn't my favourite book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Mahomet, Illinois United States of America
I wonder if the translation is word for word; occasionally, artistic merit can be lost if that's done. I really wasn't terribly fond of the book. It was, perhaps, too redundant, and the storyline seems a little too much like Into the Looking-glass to seem terribly original to me. However, it's written in a very nice way, considering the narrator, and it's clear that it's more of a memory than something that's actually happening. The redundancy does seem a lot like memory, and I appreciate this, although it wasn't my favourite book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Mahomet, Illinois United States of America
The Lacemaker and the Princess by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
The Lacemaker and the Princess follows the story of Isabelle, a girl from a family of poor lacemakers who are trying to make ends meet. When she is spotted by the Queen at the palace and taken to be a playmate for the young princess, she is glad to be free for a while at least of her strict grandmother and poverty-stricken home. The princess (daughter of Marie Antoinette) is like the rest of the royalty, oblivious to all the needs and suffering of the French people. Whispers of rebellion and revolution swirl about spurring discontentment, even in Isabelle's own brother. Can the two girls remain friends even when their classes clash?
This book was an OK read. I was not able to connect to the characters very much. I felt that the princess would be an intriguing character if the author had let us see into her mind now and then the same way as Isabelle's. I had a hard time finding motivation to continue reading. However, fans of historical fiction or Marie Antoinette may find it interesting and fresh. It is a quick, easy read that young readers will probably enjoy for the glimpses it gives into the time period.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Moscow, ID USA
This book was an OK read. I was not able to connect to the characters very much. I felt that the princess would be an intriguing character if the author had let us see into her mind now and then the same way as Isabelle's. I had a hard time finding motivation to continue reading. However, fans of historical fiction or Marie Antoinette may find it interesting and fresh. It is a quick, easy read that young readers will probably enjoy for the glimpses it gives into the time period.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Moscow, ID USA
Naomi and Ely's No Kiss List by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
This book is about two best friends, Naomi and Ely, who grew up together in the same apartment in New York City. Ely loves Naomi, but Naomi is in love with Ely. The friends have been through a lot together in their lives, mainly with family problems, but the problem that faces them now is much different. Naomi's boyfriend, Bruce The Second, wasn't on the No Kiss List, but Ely kissing him was inexcusable. This one action puts Naomi and Ely's relationship over the edge and may end "Naomi and Ely" forever. The chapters point of view switches between characters, which is done very well, you are able to get an idea of what each character is thinking in a simple way.
Naomi and Ely's No Kiss List was an interesting book. It was not my favorite, but it was written very well. It talks about the bonds of friendship and betrayal. It was funny and sad at the same time, and I feel that a lot of people can relate to this book.
Content: This book has a lot of sexual content therefore I do not recommend it for young readers.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: East Islip, New York United States
Naomi and Ely's No Kiss List was an interesting book. It was not my favorite, but it was written very well. It talks about the bonds of friendship and betrayal. It was funny and sad at the same time, and I feel that a lot of people can relate to this book.
Content: This book has a lot of sexual content therefore I do not recommend it for young readers.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: East Islip, New York United States
Manderley Prep by Carol Culver
We know and love Cinderella, the beloved fairy tale that has been made into multiple movies and mutiple versions. And here is a version of the cinderella story that all teens and young adults will love. Maderley Prep is the newest, twenty-first century story of a girl (Cindy Ellis) who dreams of being someone big and great, while having to live with her super evil stepfamily. Oh ya, and in this version of Cinderella, Prince Charming is a hot soccer-playing jazz pianist, And he likes Cindy! Will Cindy be able to survive her rude, snobby private school long enough to go see her Prince Charming at the Masquerade ball? And what about after the dance...
Manderley Prep is a refreshing new version of Cinderella that captivates everyone who picks up the book and won't let go until you finish it. It was a delight to read, and is a book to be enjoyed by many in the near future. Carol Culver relates to what high school is like today, and how hard it is to deal with those snobby brats that populate the school hallways. Plus I loved how insted of Cindy losing a glass slipper, she loses her cellphone! It's just another way to prove that Culver knew what she was doing when she wrote the book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona Unites States of America
Manderley Prep is a refreshing new version of Cinderella that captivates everyone who picks up the book and won't let go until you finish it. It was a delight to read, and is a book to be enjoyed by many in the near future. Carol Culver relates to what high school is like today, and how hard it is to deal with those snobby brats that populate the school hallways. Plus I loved how insted of Cindy losing a glass slipper, she loses her cellphone! It's just another way to prove that Culver knew what she was doing when she wrote the book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona Unites States of America
What If You Broke All The Rules by L. Ruckdeschel and S. James
The book I read was What If You Broke All The Rules by Liz Ruckdeschel and Sara James. This was a different type of book than usual. It's called "a choose your destiny novel". This basically means that you get to choose what the main character, Haley, does by turning to the specific page. There is still a plot, though. It starts out on Christmas Day. You get to choose which New Years' Eve party Haley goes to, what she does on her birthday, and where she goes over Spring Break. All the while, her parents are absent, too busy with work to pay attention to Haley and her younger brother, Mitchell. Utimately, you get to decide Haley's fate as she continues on during her Sophomore year.
Even though this book read differently than most books, it's still a good read. Some books of the same type aren't well written and can be boring. But this book actually had a plot. I was able to relate well to the main character because we are the same age. Even if you don't like this type of book, you should still read it because the protagonist, Haley, is very likable. Also, you can read this book many times, choosing different things for Haley to do.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Aston, Pennsylvania United States
Even though this book read differently than most books, it's still a good read. Some books of the same type aren't well written and can be boring. But this book actually had a plot. I was able to relate well to the main character because we are the same age. Even if you don't like this type of book, you should still read it because the protagonist, Haley, is very likable. Also, you can read this book many times, choosing different things for Haley to do.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Aston, Pennsylvania United States
The Band: Holding On by Debra Garfinkle
The band is barely holding it together. With there latest stunt over with, everyone is trying to pick up the pieces. Tracie is going to do whatever it takes to get her ex-boyfriend Carter back. But will she get hurt in the process? Mark is the luckiest guy alive. He and his girlfriend Lily are getting more serious but will one mistake cost him his girlfriend and the band? Sienna can barely hold it together. She is trying to help Tracie with Carter, but she falling for him herself. Will the band be able to hold it together or will it all unravel?
Opinion: This is the second Band book in the series, and having read the first one I know what’s going on. I liked it just as much as I liked the first book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about these characters and what they are going through. But the author also seems to put some suspense in there. It’s like a soap for the teens!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, IL
Opinion: This is the second Band book in the series, and having read the first one I know what’s going on. I liked it just as much as I liked the first book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about these characters and what they are going through. But the author also seems to put some suspense in there. It’s like a soap for the teens!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, IL
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
A Nameless Witch by A. Lee Martinez
Being born undead, she didn’t exactly have too many options to what she could do with her life. Fortunately, a witch named Ghastly Edna rescued her from her cellar to come live with her and taught her how to hide her flawless beauty behind the disguise of an old crone. However, events turn against her and the witch is forced to move to Fort Stalwart with a demonic duck named Newt, a troll named Gwurm, and an enchanted broom. When a White Knight arrives with the warning of a horde of goblings that are approaching the Fort, the witch realizes that great and terrible events are coming about. The witch and the White Knight must combine forces on a quest to stop an insane sorcerer from destroying the present world and recreating his own while learning more about their true inner selves.
Funny, witty, and filled with black humor, “Nameless Witch” was an amusing book to read. Although some parts may have progressed a bit slow, it was definitely a “page-turner” for me. This book does very well with detailed use of imagery but in some cases, the vocabulary and descriptions may not be appropriate for younger readers. However, the book is still written very well and even though there are many books about quests to stop evil, A. Lee Martinez wrote an original version of this common theme. The ending was a bit disappointing to me because the book was set up to lead towards a different sort of ending, but it was refreshing to read a book that was not cliché. I think this is a great book to read for fun and amusement and is sure to put a smile on your face.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Tucson, Arizona United States
Funny, witty, and filled with black humor, “Nameless Witch” was an amusing book to read. Although some parts may have progressed a bit slow, it was definitely a “page-turner” for me. This book does very well with detailed use of imagery but in some cases, the vocabulary and descriptions may not be appropriate for younger readers. However, the book is still written very well and even though there are many books about quests to stop evil, A. Lee Martinez wrote an original version of this common theme. The ending was a bit disappointing to me because the book was set up to lead towards a different sort of ending, but it was refreshing to read a book that was not cliché. I think this is a great book to read for fun and amusement and is sure to put a smile on your face.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Tucson, Arizona United States
Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
Clay Jensen finds thirteen mysterious tapes on his doorstep. When he starts listening to them, he is suprised to hear Hannah Baker's voice, since she committed suicide recently. As he listens, he learns that the tapes reveal the thirteen reasons why Hannah committed suicide. The most shocking part is that he was one of the reasons, even though he was in love with her. Listening to these tapes could change how he views his classmates and how he remembers Hannah forever.
This book was written very well and was a very good book. The way the story was told partly through tapes added to the story. The story was very depressing and at some spots it almost seemed vindictive. However, the ending is sweet as well as sad. It made me want to cry but also smile. I would recommend it only if you are prepared for a deep, bittersweet novel.
Content: I would only recommend this book to mature readers who are willing to read about and deal with the thought of suicide. It was very thought-provoking and depressing at parts, so make sure that you are prepared to read it.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Royersford, Pa United States
This book was written very well and was a very good book. The way the story was told partly through tapes added to the story. The story was very depressing and at some spots it almost seemed vindictive. However, the ending is sweet as well as sad. It made me want to cry but also smile. I would recommend it only if you are prepared for a deep, bittersweet novel.
Content: I would only recommend this book to mature readers who are willing to read about and deal with the thought of suicide. It was very thought-provoking and depressing at parts, so make sure that you are prepared to read it.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Royersford, Pa United States
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Taken by Edward Bloor
Taken by Edward Bloor is a very gripping novel about the kidnapping of Charity Meyers. Charity is a young girl living in a wealthy neighborhood called The Highlands in 2035 when kidnapping is a dominant business around the country. Normally, the kidnappers give the parents twenty-four hours to pay the ransom, or else they kill the child and send home a body part. But for some reason, Charity's kidnapping does not follow the normal procedure, something has gone terribly wrong. Did her parents not pay the ransom? Or were they not following the rules set by the kidnappers? In her life changing experience Charity finds out who she is and what her place in the world is.
Taken is a very gripping and suspenseful book that keeps you hanging until the last sentence. The plot is very intriguing and holds on to you, making you want to just keep reading. The story is very well-written but I felt that some of it was kind of confusing. The ending, especially, was enigmatic and I had to read it over a few times before I understood what had really happened. Other than that the book is an amusing read that is entertaining and enjoyable.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Champaign, Illinois USA
Taken is a very gripping and suspenseful book that keeps you hanging until the last sentence. The plot is very intriguing and holds on to you, making you want to just keep reading. The story is very well-written but I felt that some of it was kind of confusing. The ending, especially, was enigmatic and I had to read it over a few times before I understood what had really happened. Other than that the book is an amusing read that is entertaining and enjoyable.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Champaign, Illinois USA
Saturday, September 22, 2007
101 Things You Need to Know...and Some Things You Don't by Richar and Tracey Turner
Have you ever wondered why we dream? Or maybe why cockroaches can live for weeks without its head? These are just 2 of the 101 things you need to know (and some you don’t) in this book. Every single entry in this book is true, and will mostly be liked by younger kids. This book is very interactive, and there is a “form” to fill in after each of the 101 things discussed in this book. If you complete a form, you can take a star sticker from the back of the book, and put it on that page! A very colorful book, each page asks a question, which is answered in a few brief paragraphs below. The questions touch many different subjects and ideas, and therefore, you are bound to come across interesting facts you have never heard about before. Amaze your friends! Quiz your parents! Most importantly, have fun!
Even though there are many amusing items I had no idea about before, I believe that the authors did not target the older audience. Throughout this book, the mood of the book seemed to be appropriate for kids from 10-12. It is a bit complicated for most people younger and too relaxed for those that are older. The forms make the book very interactive. Even though I did not complete the forms, it would take much longer to complete it than to read the short paragraph descriptions right beside it. Therefore, in my opinion, the balance in this book is questioned. Furthermore, the facts are presented in random page numbers even though they are categorized, which makes the flow of this book more complicated to grasp. All and all, this book is colorful, interactive, and fun. It gets the general ideas across, which you can use to amuse and quiz your friends and families.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Urbana, IL USA
Even though there are many amusing items I had no idea about before, I believe that the authors did not target the older audience. Throughout this book, the mood of the book seemed to be appropriate for kids from 10-12. It is a bit complicated for most people younger and too relaxed for those that are older. The forms make the book very interactive. Even though I did not complete the forms, it would take much longer to complete it than to read the short paragraph descriptions right beside it. Therefore, in my opinion, the balance in this book is questioned. Furthermore, the facts are presented in random page numbers even though they are categorized, which makes the flow of this book more complicated to grasp. All and all, this book is colorful, interactive, and fun. It gets the general ideas across, which you can use to amuse and quiz your friends and families.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Urbana, IL USA
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