Trouble My Way

Karis Reed tries hard to be a godly person. She doesn't
mean to get into trouble; trouble seems to find her. When
Karis is busted for being at a boy's house unsupervised,
her mother takes away all of her electronics and grounds
her. Karis feels unjustly punished, and decides to take
matters into her own hands. Behind her mother's back,
Karis borrows her friend's cell phone which ends up being
a disaster and gets her into even more trouble. Will Karis
and her mother ever be able to get along? And can Karis
start acting like the good person she knows she is inside?

This book was okay. It was the author's first attempt
at writing young adult fiction and the writing showed her
inexperience. The premise of the story was good, but the
plot could use some doctoring. Parts of this book were
unrealistic and characters reacted to events differently
than what normally would be expected. Despite this, I
could tell that Karis was a good person even though she
got into all kinds of shenanigans, which is what the
author wanted to achieve. There were even some funny
moments that made me laugh. All in all, a good read that
could have been better with some more TLC.

Reviewer Age:16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Aston, Pennsylvania United States

Miley Cyrus by Brittany Kent

Miley Cyrus’s secrets and personal past, celebrity lifestyle, and much more, are revealed to you. With the help of this book, the reader ventures deeply into Miley’s world. This magazine style scrapbook is simple to read, yet informative. It is chock-full of photographs, fun facts, quotes, quizzes, and everything you ever wanted to know about Miley’s life.

This book served its purpose by presenting many surprising and interesting facts about Miley. I enjoyed the good advice on friendships and fashion, but was never truly engrossed in the hodgepodge of interview quotes. In my opinion, a complete interview might have been a better format. This book may best suit some of Miley’s super fans looking for the dish on their favorite star, but is not for her occasional admirers.

Reviewer Age:10

Reviewer City, State and Country: Cockeysville, MD USA

Book One of the Iron Elves: Darkness Forged in Fire

Konowa Swiftdragon is not your average elf; he was marked by the evil Shadow Monarch, was commander of the Iron Elves (a special branch of Her Majesty’s Military), killed a viceroy, and had his beloved Regiment disbanded. After his court-martial for killing the viceroy, Konowa was sent to the one place he hates the most, the forest. Now Konowa is called upon to reform the Iron Elves, but only as the second-in-command. However, the new Iron Elves are not his regiment from before. A legendary, magical Red Star falls from the sky and Konowa and the Iron Elves are in a race against several opponents to reach it first. If they fail to claim the Red Star, the empire may be doomed.

A Darkness Forged in Fire is a witty and tantalizing tale. I absolutely loved it! The characters are thought out and written well. The mood of the story changed depending on the situation; it was sarcastic and funny, but serious whenever the plot dictated. The main points of the story are well laid out and understandable. The text was very descriptive and enjoyable to read. This was an amazing read!

Sexual references and killing.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, PA USA

Evermore by Alyson Noel

Ever is sixteen and has been in an accident, where her family dies. After this tragic experence, Ever goes to live with her aunt and is presented with a new life. Most people would love it, but Ever just wants her life to be back to normal. Since the accident she can hear people's thoughts, see auras and know a person's life story by one small touch. Not only that, she can see her dead sister. Then Damen comes along and seems to be the cure to her weird gifts, yet there is something different about him.

I thought this book was very good! The author creates a great picture of each and every character in the book. I am a fan of the twlight series and I recommend this book to those who like the series as well. It is a very quick read, with all the interesting twist and turns in this book.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, PA USA

Need by Carrie Jones

Pixies have uncontrollable needs, and now one is stalking
Zara. Her step-father has just died, and she is living
with her step-grandma in Maine. At her high school, she
meets several friends: Issie, Devyn, and Nick. As she
learns more about them she also learns more about herself
and her phobias. As Zara gets accustomed to one fear, she
gains reason to add another to her fickle list. New
characters become involved frequently as Zara learns more
and more about the horrible nature of pixies. Who exactly
is after her, and what does he want from her?

Need was an exciting book to read because of the use of suspense.
The plot has great use of details and irony. This keeps
the reader interested and willing to continue reading. The
characters are not necessarily round, but they do display
significant traits that differentiate them from each
other. In the beginning of each chapter, it is named with
a phobia. I thought this was unique, but after a while it
didn't interest me and I stopped bothering to read them.
The resolution of the book was definitely worthy of
praise, and I loved the action that the climax had built.
This is a great book for suspense and romance lovers to
read.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and
Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America

Ancient Forces

Ancient Forces is another collection of Bill Myers exceptional stories from the Forbidden Doors series. This one includes books 10-The Ancients, 11-The Wiccan, and 12-The Cards.
The Ancients - Becka and Scott have been sent on another mission by their mysterious friend Z. This time to the mountains of New Mexico where a Native American cult has been greatly mislead in their teachings of religion. It is not only the Natives who are in trouble here though. When Scott is led astray by these new ideas, they are all placed in great danger.
The Wiccan - There is this new show on TV that everyone is watching called ”The Hex”. It has a lot to do with a type of witchcraft called Wiccan. But it's just a TV show, so everybody knows those things aren't real, right? Sarina, the star of the show, has been promoting this witchcraft as a type of healing practice and many of Becca's friends are captivated by it. Can she stop them before they get in too deep? Can she reach out to Sarina and show her truth?
The Cards - Philip, a close friend of Rebecca, has been going through a trying time in his life. Overwhelmed with stress, he turns to the tarot cards for a bit of insight into the future. But what do they really offer?

Once again I was very pleased with Bill Myers' book. Each story addressed a different way that demons may try to trick you into turning away from God. It reminded me to stay strong in my faith and not to be too open to new ideas. On a more critical note, however, I did not enjoy this collection nearly as much as the last one I reviewed, Invisible Terror. It was not as exciting for me, but that may just be personal opinion.
If you are interested in discussing or learning more about the Forbidden Doors series I highly suggest checking out this page: http://www.forbiddendoors.com/home.htm
Forbidden Doors
Reviewer Age:16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Osseo, Wisconsin USA

Cry of the Wolf by Rachel Roberts

Adriane has always shared a special bond with the
mistwolf Stormbringer. So when Storm finds out that she is
not the last of her kind and follows them to another
world, Adriane is determined to find the pack. Then she
finds that the Dark Sorceress has captured them. When she
meets an unexpected friend, they work together to free the
animals. But what is the mysterious rock that has been
following them around.

I was surprised that I still
understood most things without reading the second book in
the series. This book really describes where these sick
animals are coming from. I liked how the author had a
subplot including the mistwolves and the only other human
on Aldenmor. The book also explains how there is a safe
place, which is why not all of the animals on Aldenmoor
are infected with disease. I thought this was a good third
book in the series.

Reviewer Age:12

Reviewer City, State and Country: Exeter , New Hampshire US

Isabelle's Boyfriend by Caroline Hickey

Taryn's mom is recently divorced and she replaced her husband with a dog!!! Her mom treats the dog better then Taryn, her own daughter. But that is just one of the problems that Taryn has to face. Taryn goes to an all-girl's school and she is not the most popular girl on the block. Taryn is taking her dog for a walk when she runs into the boy of her dreams. The down side is his girlfriend is the most popular girl at her school, Isabelle Graham. As Taryn schemes to take Isabelle's boyfriend, she ends up being friends with Isabelle. Taryn is now popular and goes to all the parties, and she likes her new life. So she is faced with the decision of her new life or the boy. Which will she choose?

This book never grabbed my attention at all. It was definitely not what I was expecting. The book had no climax and the author just kept going on about a certain plot point. Then it felt like she was rushing at the end of the book. The book wasn't completely boring, I was able to sit through it, but I would not recommend this book to others. It is a quick read; I read it in one day. The ending didn't really do much for me; it summed it up, but it just sort of felt like it should have ended differently.

Reviewer Age: 13

Reviewer City, State and Country: Tipp City, Ohio United States

Scene of the Crime by Malcom Rose

Do you watch in CSI? Well, it's a great inside look at how forensic scientists figure out who commited a crime. The pictures are very colorful and detailed and easy to read. The book goes step by step to uncover the truth of how the murder happened. There are interesting facts along the way as well as indepth descriptions of what the investigation entails. You don't just read it, you discover who commited the crime yourself!
My opinion of this book was great. It wasn't what I expected for my first book but it was really interesting. The pictures help make the investigation real and exciting. The explaination of the book is very well done and descripive. It was very awesome!

The book has violence in it and isn't appropriate for children.

Reviewer Age:18

Reviewer City, State and Country: Newville, Pennsylvanis United States

Macbeth by William Shakespeare

It's Shakespeare's classic story of Macbeth, with lines untouched. The story begins with the king learning of Macbeth's fearless fighting on the battlefield. The king, it appears, is so impressed he decides to reward Macbeth in some way. Shift to Macbeth, our tragic hero, who has no lofty ambitions until he comes across the three weird sisters who inform him that he is to become Dane, and foretell his becoming a powerful king. Macbeth is skeptical at first but when he learns the king has indeed appointed him to such a position he begins to lust for even more power. Soon, he has vaulted down a road of obsession, greed, and guilt a combination that has nasty consequences. But how far is too far? Shakespeare's play goes on to explore the ideas of fate, the power of suggestion, and Machiavellian politics, in a truly emotional story that will grip you from the start.
I can't really say anything against Shakespeare's storytelling prowess. The graphic novel aspect of Classic Comics version of Macbeth made it much simpler to understand the more difficult parts of the play. It really is the best of both worlds: readers get to experience the integrity of Shakespeare's original text while getting the extra help of the graphics to better grasp the nuances of the play. The lines suddenly jump out with a vivacity that wouldn't otherwise be possible; they come alive. The comics helped make the play more understandable and thus more enjoyable without altering the lines. I would highly recommend it for anyone who wishes to explore Shakespeare, but is too afraid to tackle the challenges of Elizabethan English alone.

The play addressed some darker aspects of human nature...including murdering for the sake of personal gain. Additionally, to portray such things the comics showed some graphic pictures of violence, that younger children might feel squeamish seeing. Finally, Elizabethan english is difficult to understand, especially for younger kids.

Reviewer Age:17

Reviewer City, State and Country: Bellevue, WA USA

The Youngest Templar by Michael Spradlin

Tristan of St. Alban's has always lived his life with the monks. Now, he is being whisked away as Sir Thomas's squire. The Saracens are trying to conquer the Holy Land, and Tristan has been pushed into the conflict. Soon he meets a possible traitor within the Knights Templar and is entrusted with the most sacred relic in all Christendom. Tristan leaves Sir Thomas behind as he runs to deliver the relic to safety. His new allies, Robard Hode and a female assassin, help him remain alive and able to continue his quest. Can Tristan make it to safety with the Holy Grail?

By reading the summary of The Youngest Templar I knew it would be about the Crusades. However, I did not expect to read an extremely provoking, fiction story. While the beginning is slightly slow, the additions in plot move swiftly and beneficially in exciting the reader. The vocabulary was perfect for the young adult age group. Also, the character's personalities were intriguing, and the context clues made me want to know more about Tristan. On the downside, many conflicts were left untold and I will have to wait until the second book comes out to find more information.


Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America

Rating: 7
Content Rating: 1

The Otherworldlies by Jennifer Anne Kogler

Fern has always been different. She knows this, and her family knows this. What she DOESN'T know is that she is not really human. She's a vampire, an "Otherworldy." The kids at school pick on her, with the exception of her brother and another vampire, and one of the popular girls. Together, the three children set out to discover the truth about Fern.

I loved this book to pieces! The author wrote the story so that it almost seemed like you were there, watching it unfold. The author made the characters very believable, and I loved all the main ones. I think that the story was wrapped up quite nicely, though there was room enough for a sequel, if desired. The vocabulary used was appropriate for middle school and up, though some elementary school kids would understand and enjoy the book as well. This book is different from other vampire books I've read, because the author took the term vampire and completely redefined it. I loved this book, and begged my library to get a copy so that others could enjoy it as well.

Reviewer Age:16

Reviewer City, State and Country: Highland, MI USA

The Floating Circus by Tracie Vaughn Zimmer

The Floating Circus by Tracie Vaughn Zimmer tells the story of Owen, a 12-year-old orphan in 19th century Pittsburgh, PA. As the book opens, Owen seriously damages his arm falling out a tree at the orphanage where he and younger brother, Zack, live. Within weeks, they are herded onto a train with dozens of other orphans being sent out West to be adopted. The boys have to give up their dream that their penniless mother and alcoholic father will reclaim them, but they still hope to be placed together. Although they are accompanied by two elderly Quaker sisters who dote on them, Owen fears that his useless arm will prevent anyone from adopting him. Not wanting to hurt Zack's chances for a new family, he runs away. He ends up on one of the 'floating' circus boats on the Mississippi River, after being saved from drowning by Solomon, a former slave who has bought his freedom, but is still subject to a multitude of indignities. Although Owen works with many animals, the elephants really capture his fancy. This book relates the adventures of a young boy trying to find his own niche in the world, and also discovering the tough reality that African Americans faced in 19th century America.

Although historical fiction is not my favorite genre, this book had a relatively interesting story line, with the intriguing theme of trying to find your place in the world. Even though I was interested in Owen, and the descriptions of circus life were fascinating, the main reason that I kept reading the book was to find out what happens to Solomon, a free African American, and former slave. Solomon reveals that he has made terrible mistakes in the past, but he is goodhearted and tries to protect Owen as well as the circus animals from cruel treatment. The author's research is impressive, and her writing is clear, but there were so many subplots--including one involving the Greenes, a circus family whose son Caleb befriends Owen, and also features a depressed mother, and a beautiful, snooty daughter. The ending was disappointing for me as it left too many loose ends hanging, particularly Solomon's fate. I usually read a book in a few hours or days, but this book took weeks to get through as it rambled along and did not hold my attention very well. Even though this book is not at the top of my list I would still recommend it to readers between 9 and 14, especially if they like historical fiction, or are curious about circus life.
Reviewer Age:16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Hingham, MA USA

My Name is Number 4 by Ting-xing Ye

In a time where what your parents did defines who you are, Ting-xing Ye is growing up. As the Cultural Revolution evolves and changes from white to black, Ye is trying to go to school and become smart enough to go to a University like her brother. That is the only way for her to become independent of welfare and live a better life then what she has. But when Ting-xing Ye is sent to a prison farm so her sister can get a job, not only has it become a much more difficult struggle to survive, but also it means the chances of her going to a University are getting thinner and thinner. Injuries and sickness plague the farm, but will Ting-xing be able to survive and overcome, and eventually be able to achieve her dreams?

Wow. Wow and amazingly good. That's really all I can say about this book. For this author to be able to go through what she did and then write about it is truly amazing to me. My Name is Number Four is a shockingly true poetic novel that will have every single person who opens the book unable to put it down. Not only is this book surprisingly easy to fallow, it also educates the reader about the Chinese Cultural Revolution without being boring or sounding to much like a homework assignment. My Name is Number Four may be one of the best books I have read this year.

Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona USA

The Golden Path by Anson Montgomery

In the book The Golden Path by Anson Montgomery you get to decide your own destiny. You and your two friends, Dresdale and Peter, spend the summer on an internship at an archaeological and geological expedition run by your parents in the Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico. You and your friends are exploring off the trails when you find an unusual pottery shard. You start researching it and decide to use it as a project for school. The next thing you know your parents are missing, some guy is accusing you of stealing the pottery shard and you're getting expelled from school. You have no choice but to find your parents and save the day. It's up to you to be the hero in this adventure.
I thought the Golden Path was a good book. I thought the beginning was slow, but the more I got into the book, the harder it was to put down. I thought it was a great idea to let the reader choose the decisions the character made and how the book was left with multiple endings. One of the strengths in this book is how it draws the reader's attention further and further into the story. I think a weakness in this book are some parts where the reader gets to decide what happens to the character, I think it becomes more confusing, like where the character can die. You have to find the place where you went wrong and re-read it and make another decision of what to do. I found myself trying to remember my page number or writing it down so I could just go back to that page if I made a mistake. I thought the ending in this book was okay. It left me with many questions but just enough answers to buy the next volume book and read on. I would recommend this book to anyone who is tired of reading the same types of books and wants to try something new.

Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Sandy, Oregon United States

The Miracle Girls

The Miracle Girls by Anne Dayton and May Vanderbilt tells
the story of 14 year-old Ana Dominguez. Ana has just moved
from San Jose, California to the nearby small town Half
Moon Bay. A few weeks after she starts her freshman year
of high school in this new town, Ana lands herself and
another girl, Riley McGee, in detention after accusing
Riley of cheating on a pop quiz. While there, the teens in
detention are required to write an essay entitled "The Day
My Life Changed" and are then divided into groups of four
to whom they must read their essays. Ana is paired up with
Riley and two other girls, Christine and Zoe. After each
girl reads her essay, they all realize that the four of
them each would have died years ago, but each was saved by
a miracle. Ana and Zoe team up and try to befriend the
other two "miracle girls" and in the end the four
experience adventures that can only be experience with a
true friend.

This book was an exciting, heartwarming page-
turner. The Authors have successfully written an
intriguing story for teens and preteens. The story is both
slightly foreseeable while also being reasonably
unpredictable. The details are vivid enough to let you
easily picture the settings of the story. Also, the
characters are very much real to life. The Miracle Girls
is an excellent book that I would recommend to any teenager
especially girls.

Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City,State and Country: Marble Hill, Missouri, USA

Papillon

This book is based in China and it is about twin sisters name Hana-Chan and Ageha. When they were little Ageha went to live with her grandmother in the country and Hana-Chan stayed with their parents in the city. Ageha came back to the city when her grandmother became ill. Hana-Chan and Ageha turned into completely different people even though they were twins. Ageha ended up working with her childhood friend but doesn't ever say anything to him because she is in love with him until one day he realizes who she is. She and her twin sister, Hana-Chan, end up competing for young Ryusei Koike. Along the way friendships are gained and lost and Ageha becomes friends with someone unusual who gives her a lot of helpful advice.

I loved the book Papillon because it was very descriptive of what an everyday life of a teenager would be like if they thought they were in love. I would definitely recommend this book to kids of mature age and good moral standings. It has some graphic details and vivid pictures so some parents may not approve of the children reading it. This book provides real-to-life situations and is very true to what love is like and what happens in relationships. I would definitely recommend this book and trust me you won't be able to put it down once you start to read it.

Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, Missouri United States of America

Endless Quest by Bruce Algozin

This book is a great and adventurous story where you make the decisions of what to do. In the book, you are a halfling that goes by the name of Tammery Blackfoot, a quiet and peaceful person. However, behind this disguise, you are the Night Shadow, the only one who can stand up against the evil Blue Hag! And when your friend, Clarion the Pegasus, is captured by the Blue Hag, you immediately go out on a quest to find her, with some help from your friends. If you make the right decisions, you get closer every step you take, and will eventually find and save Clarion. But if you make one bad move, the Blue Hag will catch you, Clarion will certainly die, and it will be The End!

In my opinion, this book was exciting, but it lacked some crucial parts to it. The idea was a great one and I liked how the author set it up in the beginning. But, once the group got inside the castle, the choices you could make seemed obvious and boring. I did not think this was a very suspenseful book, and at some parts, I had wanted to close the book and give it up. Also, I felt that the story was short and not well described. However, I did like that one wrong turn could lead you the defeat or victory. This is my opinion of the book, Endless Quest 2: Search for the Pegasus

Reviewer Age:12

Reviewer City, State and Country: Baltimore, Maryland United States of America

Rating: 4

Content Rating: 1

Time's Chariot

This novel is science fiction, action, mystery, and
historical. Its purpose is to entertain. This story is
set in future period called the Home Time. In the Home
Time, it is possible to travel back in time as long as one
is careful not to upset the history of the world. If
history is drastically altered, the time stream will split
and many more people will be created. The main problem
with the Home Time is that it will end in twenty-seven
years and it will no longer be possible to travel through
time. Two field agents, Rico and Su, that escort groups
back in time are swept into a plot involving a murder,
time paradoxes, and dangerous contact with the people of
the past by people at the highest levels of Home Time
society. While seeking the truth, Rico and Su are sent
through time, threatened, and held captive by their Home
Time foes and powerful historical figures. Though the
characters in the book travel through history, the book is
more science fiction and adventure than historical or
factual.

I found this novel very entertaining and
exciting. I read lots of science fiction books and many
contain time paradoxes or time travel, but this one was
unique. It was for a young adult, though not childish,
and more general audience, rather than most science
fiction books that are written for adult science fiction
fans. It was cleaner and less focused on hard science
fiction. The flawed futuristic society is not the focus
of the novel, but it does provide room for thought about
how much people should be controlled. The different
periods of time and alternate histories were enjoyable, as
were the straightforward main characters. There was
enough mystery and intrigue to keep me guessing, but I was
never too confused or lost. The ending has unpredictable
and exciting plot twists. The book is a short and easy
but thoroughly worthwhile read.

There are a few
instances of language and violence.

Reviewer
Age:14

Reviewer City, State and Country: Royersford, PA
United States

The Writing On The Wall by Wendy Lichtman

When eighth grader Tess looks at the back wall on the church across from her school, she notices something that she's never noticed before: about twenty bright green fours. Her friend gives her the idea that maybe, just maybe, the fours mean something. With this in mind, and being the math whiz that she is, Tess decides that maybe they are a fours four problem (a type of math problem) and decides to figure it out and look for a pattern or a code. Throughout the next few days, she gets help with the problem from her friends and a boy that she really likes, who keeps waiting for her after her school clubs. Does that mean that he likes her too, and if so, will they be able to take their relationship to the next level? Will she ever be able to stop the harassment from Richard, a classmate, who is cruel to her because she was going to tattle on him for stealing the answers to the U.S. Constitution exam? Also, will she ever find out what the problem means? Find out by reading Writing on the Wall.

This story was ok, but I thought that it was written for younger kids because the vocabulary was very simple and it didn't possess a very complicated or interesting plot. Since I'm almost fifteen, I thought the book was rather boring and didn't hold my attention for very long. It was an extremely quick read and it only took a few days to finish. The story seems like it should be for kids ages 9-12 but some of the things included like the eight grade math problems make this story seem like it was written for younger teens around 13. I learned a lot of interesting math facts and formulas, which is definitely useful when it comes to getting good grades in Algebra. Overall, this was an ok book, and I recommend it to younger pre-teen girls.

Reviewer Age:14

Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, Pennsylvania United States

The Snake Prince of Montreal by Aliana K. Deveza

Agatha and Lucille are best friends. Lester and Prince Aaron are best friends. Lester likes Lucille who likes Aaron who likes Agatha who likes Aaron. Aaron and Agatha marry, making Lucille angry. So she runs off to her aunt (a black witch) and learns dark magic to plan revenge on Agatha. On the day of their wedding, Lucille shows up out of nowhere and curses Agatha's unborn son. Every full moon, he will turn into a snake! Will he ever break the curse?

This book felt like a Dick and Jane book: I felt like the sentences were very choppy and did not flow well. That was before I read the About the Author section. Turns out it is very good for her age - she is only 11! It had a very good storyline but I think the author could have given more detail. It was a cliffhanger ending, so I am going to have to locate the second book!

Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Gearhart, Oregon United States

Escape the Mask by David Ward

Escape the Mask is an action-filled novel that tells the story of a young girl named Pippa and a young boy named Coriko. These characters were captured and enslaved when they were no older than ten by soldiers called Spears. Spears seem especially frightening because of the fact that they wear masks, and they are never seen without them. Coriko and Pippa have been put to work in the Spears' special labor camp, digging up shards. Every day, they work in the sun, digging up baskets of shards. One day, however, Coriko and Pippa meet up with two newcomers, fellow diggers Bran and Tia. Then everything falls apart. Pippa begins to realize that something is out of place . . . the Spears seem awfully nervous about something. But no one can discover what! The story continues to unfold with an adventure of daring acts and an attempted escape. To find out more, read Escape the Mask!

My favorite part of Escape the Mask is when the four children (Coriko, Pippa, Bran, and Tia) work together to carry out their escape attempt. I think the story teaches a great lesson about cooperation, without making it seem like an actual "lesson." I liked the way the kids in the story developed relationships with each other in spite of the hardships they were going through. I would recommend this book to kids ages 12 to 15. It was a wonderfully exciting story filled with action and love and conflict -- very entertaining.

Reviewer Age:12

Reviewer City, State and Country: Saugerties, New York USA

Discovering Pig Magic

The book, Discovering Pig Magic, is about Matilda, a young girl, who along with her two best friends (Nikki and Ariel) discovers how hard growing up is when you are thirteen years old. Ariel has a dream to be just like Rachel Ray and follow in her footsteps. Nikki finds that it is hard to trust her parents after she finds out the big secret. Matilda started loving pigs at the age of six when her aunt gave her very first pig keychain. Now her thirteenth birthday is coming, and she hates pigs. Her dilemma is: should she tell her parents she hates pigs or risk receiving more pig presents. She keeps telling herself she can do it. The solution to all the girls’ problems is to get a magic book to make all their problems go away. However, they quickly find that to make a problem go away you must change what you do. For example, to get Matilda’s problem to go away she must tell her parents she hates pigs.

This book was fun to read. I would recommend it to anyone. It was well written. Julie Crabtree is an amazing author who held my interest and I could not put the book down. I even received approval from my 6th grade teacher to review the book for a report. I am hoping for an A+. My teacher thought it was perfect challenge for young readers.

Reviewer Age:11

Reviewer City, State and Country: Germantown, Tennessee United States

Julie Crabtree

Kurt Cobain: Oh Well, Whatever, Never Mind by Jeff Burlingame

Kurt Cobain. A name that, if you didn't know, you would never forget after hearing one Nirvana song. “Kurt Cobain: Oh well, Whatever, Never mind," by Jeff Burlingame, is a narrative about a boy who was not your typical boy of the seventies or eighties. He certainly wasn't your typical man of the nineties, and he didn't come from your typical family. This biography gives little known details about Cobain's rise to fame (which for the most part he did not want) to his not so shocking death. In the story, Cobain appears to be a good man (and child) who got lost. As a child, he never seemed to fit in, to which many young adults can relate. Cobain was a bit like an extra in a movie; he was just there. Kurt Cobain never really learned how to deal with a bad situation; maybe bashing instruments was his way of doing so. He was a bit misunderstood (like most) and a lost soul (seen frequently in society in today). Cobain walked to the beat of his own drum, or in his case the strum of his own guitar.

Although you can only capture a person's essence (especially one like Kurt Cobain’s) to a certain extent, Jeff Burlingame did an astounding job summing up Kurt's life in 134 pages. I would recommend this book to fans of Nirvana, Musical rebels, Kurt Cobain fans, and anyone who enjoys reading about celebrities or tragic stories.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: Raleigh, NC United States

Between Golden Jaws by Tiffany Trent

After their adventure in Scotland, Corrine and her friends hurry off to London to try to find the next Rathstone, which can help them regain Hallowmere. On the long trip there, while trying to fight off the evil Captain, Corrine is surprised to find that her magical powers are bound, which causes her to be little help to Council. With that in mind, the Council needs all the help they can get and requests that her two friends and Siobhan join in on searching for information that can help find the whereabouts of the next Rathstone; they all agree to it. Throughout the next few weeks, many evil forces are working which puts Corrine and all of her friends in danger. When a report of two missing girls arrive, Corrine and Ilona go in pursuit of them, which leads them into a trap set by the Captain and The Dark Fey Prince. He makes Corrine a deal that he knows she'll accept: Become his lovely consort and he won't harm her beloved friends and Father Joe. As the day comes to complete the deal, will Corrine go through with her promise or will she find another way to escape the wicked arms of the scheming Prince?

Between Golden Jaws was a great book full of mystery and intrigue. I was kept on my toes guessing the whole time what would happen next to Corrine. While I was reading this book I was puzzled at how Corrine could possibly get out of the muddle she got herself into. This third Hallowmere novel also managed to reach my high expectations that were set by the excellence of the first two novels. I'm looking forward to reading the fourth book in the series, Maiden of the Wolf, to find out what problems and situations Corrine will find herself in next.

Reviewer Age:8

Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA USA

The Night I freed John Brown by John Michael Cummings

Ever since the Richmonds have moved in to the historical
town of Harpers Ferry, young Josh knows he has to
investigate further into an old family secret. The
Richmond's house is a five-story Victorian house, with a
Catholic church built in. The twist is that Josh's
grandmother's house is the exact structure, except it's
hidden by the woods. Josh shows his new neighbor, Luke, the
abandoned house in the woods, and describes the woeful
event that occurred in Josh's grandmother's house. Years
before, someone stole everything from the house and the
church; from the napkins to the bell. Ever since, the house
has been abandoned. A wax figure of John Brown, a
historical abolitionist, overlooks Josh's house. Could he
be the one causing all the bickering in Josh Conner's
house? What about Father Ron, the mysterious pastor? And
can Josh and his brothers solve the mystery of the
Victorian house in the woods before time runs out?

I liked the book. Considering that this is Michael
Cummings's first novel, The Night I Freed John Brown was
great. In the beginning, the story seemed monotonous. It
took me awhile to finally catch on to the book's action.
The story was very easy to predict, although the first
chapter leads you astray, making you think that this was
going to be a ghost story, not realistic fiction. I liked
the parts that held suspense, and the sudden change of
character each person displayed. Overall, The Night I Freed
John Brown was a great book.

Reviewer Age:12

Reviewer City, State and Country:
Osseo, Wisconsin United States

Heck: Where the Bad Kids Go

When Milton Fauster goes to the mall with his juvenile delinquent sister Marlo, he doesn't expect to be tricked into shoplifting and he certainly doesn't expect to die in a tragic marshmallow accident. But perhaps the most unexpected thing is Dale E. Basye's bizarre twist on the usual concepts of heaven and hell. Once dead, Milton and Marlo enter Heck, one of the many levels of the afterlife where they are to stay for all eternity, or until they turn eighteen. In the school-like institution, the Fauster children encounter a wide variety of characters from Captain Blackbeard to Mrs. Bea Elsa Bubb, the principal of Heck. Convinced that he doesn't belong in there, Milton along with his sister and their new friend Virgil must navigate the timeless realms of the afterlife to seek a way back to their world.

This book was excellent. The humor found within this novel with its witty observations and clever word play will appeal to young adults and even to their parents. In fact, it would be hard to find someone who doesn't enjoy the nonsensical logic of Heck and the dead men and women who make up the faculty there. The combination of humor and emotion that Dale E. Basye uses to tell this tale is one that will hold you captive until the last page. The only complaint I could possibly give was that it could have been even longer. In conclusion, this amusing and touching story which is about growing up as much as it is about dying, is an excellent choice for readers both young and old.

Reviewer Age:14

Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA United States

Immortal Prince

The story takes place in the land of Glaeba where a murderer is hung but does not die. He is thrown into prison and claims to be Cayal, the Immortal Prince, of tales. Arkady Desean the duchess of Lebec, where the hanging occurred, is asked to interview the prisoner and try to break his story. With the help of a Crasii, a human/animal hybrid that is in a nearby cell, the duchess tests Cayal’s story. The duchess slowly begins to believe the story and begins to fall for Cayal at the same time. But as the long vanished Tide starts to return so does the power of the Tide Lords, the immortal magic wielding gods of stories. As the Tide Lords begin to struggle and gain more and more power, Arkady finds herself deeper in their plots than she could have ever imagined.

Jennifer Fallon, the author, makes you feel like you are in the court and ancient stories. You can see what is going on and you can not wait to find out what happens next. The book’s characters are like real people, you can see their reasoning, desires, and you either hate them or love them just as the author intended. I enjoyed how the story was told from different character’s personalities as their opinions, thoughts and memories all showed the story in a more understanding way. There were many well placed cliffhangers and many plot twists to keep me guessing what will happen next; but it was too long and I started losing my patience and reading it less and less often as it went on. I think the book would be popular if it was shortened a little bit so people slightly younger could read it. It would also help if the book was publicized, because I have not seen it anywhere except my dresser and bookcase. I would recommend this to someone who is very interested in this genre. Overall I enjoyed the book.

The book refers to sexual content which is more implied than graphic although it is held behind a very thin curtain.

Reviewer Age:14

Reviewer City, State and Country: Eastchester, New York United States of America

Another Mother's Life by Rowan Coleman

Catherine was in love, or so she thought. The mind-blowing weeks she spent together with Marc as a carefree, crazy in love seventeen-year-old became the essence of her being, though now the memories are all she has left. And the memories are tainted by her best friend's disloyalty.

Alison was in love, too. Alison was in love with her best friend's first and only love, Marc. And so Alison ran away with her best friend's boyfriend at the tender age of seventeen, thus irreversibly betraying her closest companion.

Now, nearly sixteen years after the incident that shaped the lives of both Catherine and Alison, their situation is about to take another turn. Alison is moving back to her home town, the very same town in which ever-heartbroken Catherine still resides. Pick up Another Mother's Life, and read a heart-wrenching story of love, friendship, and the true meaning of forgiveness.

I truly love Another Mother's Life. For one, the characters seem real and are easy to relate to. You feel the pain of Catherine's heartbreak and Alison's agonizing decisions. Not only is the story interesting, but it is fun to read. Coleman's writing style is fluid, with just the right amount of description and dialogue. If you've ever been in love, ever been a mother, or even had a friend, this book is for you!

There are some adult situations that may not be suitable for young readers.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: Tipp City, Ohio, USA

Citizen Alpha by Patrick E. Peterson

Citizen Alpha is the exciting story of five students brought together from all corners of the world. It starts with each character, Peter Jobe, Mousa Diop, Mario Costa, Kim Suk Bae, and Larissa Svenson, being introduced separately from their separate countries. Along with them, however are five characters, Musad, Park Il Sung, Xavier Salazar, Rachael, and Abdul, also from five different countries and cultures. Peter, Mousa, Mario, Kim, and Larissa all have a strong faith and interest in science. These two disciplines are rarely mixed, but they seek to connect them. Eventually, they all end up at the University of Chicago, and are put into a group together for a project. Their objective is to bring together all disciplines of science. They all have spiritual experiences, and have a sense of unease. They take a trip to Hawaii for a vacation, where they all have the same dream: five major American cities are attacked and destroyed. On the other side of the world, Musad, Park, Salazar, and Abdul come together with one goal: the downfall of the United States. Rachael ends up falling in love with Abdul, who uses her connections with America to further the group’s acquisition of nuclear weaponry. Will the students' group be able to interpret their dream and stop the terrorists, or will America finally succumb to attack? Read "Citizen Alpha" to find out.

"Citizen Alpha," by Patrick E. Peterson, is a fantastic read. The introduction of the characters is done perfectly, along with their coming together. They are all realistic, believable characters, and their ideas and spiritual experiences, while somewhat far-fetched, are well-thought and believable. While reading it, the story almost seems real. It's a fiction book that tricks you into thinking it's non-fiction. I would recommend this book to anyone.

Content: 1
Rating: 10

Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA United States

Titanic's Last Secret

Join John Chatterton and Richie Kohler of Nova's Shadow Divers as they explore the depths of the ocean in search of one of the world's greatest mysteries: the Titanic. When John and Richie discover the resting place of Titanic, both decide to unravel the mystery of how the Titanic went down in the first place. The book tells the story as if you were watching a documentary of the Titanic. Towards the end of the novel, Chatterton and Kohler finally unravel the mystery of how and why the Titanic sank. Filled to the brim with scientific facts and mystery, this book will keep you reading until the end!

The beginning and middle were a little hard to get into because of all the facts that the author had to explain. Also, the beginning was used to explain why Chatterton and Kohler did the experiment. The greatest part of the book, in my opinion, was at the end when all the pieces of the mystery finally fit together. I also liked how the author compared the Titanic to Britannic, the sister ship of the Titanic. I would recommend this book to people who are interested in marine biology or ship building.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: Pottstown, PA United States

Say You're One of Them is a collection of short stories by Uwem Akpan. In the first story, "An Ex-mas Feast," a poverty-striken family living on the streets of Nairobi, Kenya struggle to overcome hunger. In "Fattening for Gabon," two siblings living in Benin with their uncle are suddenly blessed with a small fortune by their godparents. But things take a turn for the worse when they realize that they are thick in the middle of a plot to be sold into slavery. "What Language is That?" is about two friends who are torn apart by thier religious differences and must learn to cope in an Ethiopia where civil war is a rising threat. In the next story, "Luxurious Hearses," sixteen-year-old Jubril is a Muslim refugee who must flee from Northern Nigeria to the South because of a religious civil war which has begun to tear apart his country. To accomplish this he must attempt to conceal his identity as he embarks on a treacherous trip on a bus filled with Muslim hating Christians. The last story, "My Parents Bedroom," is about a family in Rwanda who risks everything they have to save the victims of a terrible civil war.

Say You're one of Them was one of the most difficult books I have ever read. The author did an incredible job of revealing the lives of children in Africa -- the unimaginable pain and suffering and how hope can prevail in even the very worst of situations. The way he used points of view was very unique and helped give a peek into each person's world. In "What Language is That?, he used second person. I had never read a story in that point of view before and it really made me feel like I was part of the story. I enjoyed the book, but each story had a sad ending and though they inspired me, I walked away feeling kind of depressed. It helped me to realize that even though life isn't perfect, I still have it a lot better than most people. I would reccomend this book only to mature teenagers and older because some of the parts are rather graphic.

Some strong language and mature subjects, such as rape. Also contained some gore.
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania USA

Prom Queen Geeks, by Laura Preble

The Queen Geek Social Club strikes again in Preble's third installment. This time, the club is tackling prom season, after having aptly noticed that prom is only attended by those popular kids who can afford the outrageous ticket cost. So of course, the perfect solution is to hold their own prom, a low-cost Geek Prom. Unfortunately, their independent thinking poses a threat to the popular clique, especially as the Geek Prom begins to show signs of success and is expanding. This simple enough idea turns Green Pines High into territory for war and all the drama that goes with it.
While I was a huge fan of Laura Preble's first Queen Geeks novel, I must say that I found it challenging to get into this one. Though equal in length to the first two installments, the story becomes repetitive early on and loses the reader's attention. Also, the extreme expansion of the prom by Shelby and crew seems unrealistic, as if they plan on taking over the universe rather than holding a simple high school dance. This being said, Shelby's voice is as entertaining as ever, leading the reader to share in the life of a geek, even when it means feeling downright uncomfortable. While the end of Prom Queen Geeks resolves the prom tension, the girl fights, and the boy drama, Preble leaves the Queen Geeks open to yet another installment. Hopefully the next time we encounter Shelby, Becca, and friends, their story will have returned to reality, with each character remaining as quirky as ever.

Reviewer Age:19

Reviewer City, State and Country: Farmington, CT USA

The Secret Life of Josephine: Napoleon's Bird of Paradise by Carolly Erickson

In the book The Secret Life of Josephine, Rose Tascher, a 15 year old girl growing up on the French island of Martinique, spends all her days going to balls and hanging out lazily on the beach. Then, her aunt sends her family a letter one day saying she must travel to France to marry her cold, heartless cousin, Alexandre. He drives her crazy with his mistresses and controlling attitude toward her, so she seeks a separation. Living her life single once more brings joy to her. When a short military man by the name of Napoleon sweeps her off her feet she cannot help but think of moving up the social ladder. With her social climb comes a promotion for Napoleon. He becomes power hungry and tries taking control of the rest of the world. But what can Rose do? Save her world or help the man she loves?

I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was very entertaining and fun to read. At points, I couldn't put it down because I just had to know what happened next. Also, the scenes were described to where I felt like I was in the rooms dancing with the characters. I think that many others will enjoy this book. I thought Carolly Erickson did a really good job with this book and I feel that it will be the next Harry Potter or Twilight.

Sexual Content and Foul language

Reviewer Age:13

Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, Ill United States

See How They Run by Susan E. Goodman & Elwood H. Smith

See How They Run is a nonfiction book about how today's United States government came to be. This book is especially interesting because of this year's presidential election. It explains the electoral and popular votes that came into play in the 2004 election. Al Gore got more popular votes but George Bush became president. Accompanied by hilarious pictures such as talking presidents on Mount Rushmore, and informative side bars like "What would Ben say?" you won't want to put this book down.

See How They Run was an incredible book! It was the perfect way to learn about confusing government processes. Susan E. Goodman's writing was the perfect mix of humor and information. Elwood H. Smith s hysterical pictures had me turning pages to see what the funny cartoon characters would say next! From lame ducks to dirty tricks, this book gets my vote!

Reviewer Age: 11

Reviewer City, State and Country: Harleysville, PA USA

Fashion 101

Have you ever wondered who invented the style of jeans you're wearing? Or who came up with the style of your favorite shirt? This book is a reference book and it gives you a complete look at clothing items in order from A to Z. There are over 200 different entries each containing the item, what to wear it with, what celebrities made it hot, and the designer of it. This book is meant for someone who wants to look up an accessory quickly and learn how to rock it! This book contains everything from shoes, pants, shorts, outerwear, underwear, dresses, and skirts to accessories. For someone looking to better their fashion knowledge this book is for them!
This book is one that I probably would not recommend unless you are someone who is totally into fashion. It had some interesting facts in it but it was nothing that I would want to go and purchase. It's not really something to sit down and read, but more something if you wanted to learn what to wear a black dress with and what accessories would match. This reference book had some nice pictures and a good easy layout to look up things, but I think it had too many side notes and paragraphs about the each item. Overall this book might be one to look in once or twice and that's about it.

Rating: 7
Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania

Elephants and Golden Thrones by Trish Marx

Elephants and Golden Thrones is a series of fictional stories based on historic facts. It contains many stories about the emperors and empresses of China's Forbidden City. Each story has historical information at the end to help you understand its meaning. The stories have many details about their lifes. The photographs are amazing and colorful. Some of the stories are unbelievable.

The stories are amazing and educational. They are so incredible because they are based on real peoples' lives. My favorite story is about Empress Dowager Gixi in her private rooms. It is about an empress who ruled for forty years and then stepped down. It tells about her life after being empress. One of my favorite photographs is of The Temple of Heaven because the skies are blue and the temple is perfectly centered. It is good for kids and adults. You should definitely read this book.
Reviewer Age:11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, Missouri United States

My Letters to the World by Emily Dickinson

My Letters To The World is a collection of seven of Emily Dickinson's short poems. The themes range from death to hope. The tone is quite serene and a bit morbid at times. Overall, the collection is well written and gives the reader a glimpse of how magnificent poetry once was and has the potential to be.
Like most Emily Dickinson poems, this collection is not a book one can just glance and glide through. One may even have to read it twice to truly understand the meaning behind her words. There is a lot of reading between the lines involved, and many of the stanzas may appear to be a bit ambiguous. Dickinson uses many phrases and words of Old English. Therefore, the reader may need to keep a dictionary at hand or to do a little research. Word of advice, read the poems slowly to really understand the meanings. Emily Dickinson's poetry is definitely thought provoking.
I would recommend this collection to anyone who enjoys reading the classics. Such as: Shakespeare, Jane Austen, T.S Eliot, Ralph Ellison, Ralph Emerson, and so forth.
Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Raleigh , NC United States

Inkdeath by Cornelia Funke

In this spellbinding return of our beloved Inkheart friends, we start off not long after the previous story ended. Even though Meggie and Moe escaped the Adderhead's grip in the last book by binding a book of immortality for him, the Adderhead is after them again. The book is starting to deteriorate, as is the Adderhead; overcome by fear of the White Women. He will stop at nothing to keep living, even if it means kidnapping children in order to reel Moe back into his trap. Meggie and her family are now fully immersed in the Inkworld and any hope of leaving is quickly disappearing. Will the story be saved, or will this made up world become one of it's own?


Wow! This was a completely ingenious ending to a fabulous series. Funke creates such a real world and makes me wish that it were really real to travel into books. The characters were well developed and felt very real and I felt like they were more like well-known friends instead of characters. Funke's kept the plot refreshing and new, keeping me riveted to the story and not bored in the least. I do suggest reading the preceding books in the series, as the author doesn't give a lot of background information and just dives into the story. This is a great book for all ages and I think everyone should take the time to read it. Whether you read it aloud, or read it until you cant read anymore, this story will truly mesmerize you and keep you wanting more. This is by far my favorite book in the series and I dearly wish it wasn't the last!


Reviewer Age:16

Reviewer City, State and Country: Currituck, NC Currituck

The Man Who Turned Into Himself by David Ambrose

Rick Hamilton was a successful business man. During one of the most important business meetings of his career, his mind drifts off and has what seems to be a dreadful premonition of his son, Charlie, and his wife dying. Going AWOL, Rick races to the scene to find that the tables have turned. Rick opens his eyes at the scene to realize it was he who had gotten into the wreck and his life is hanging by a thread. Frantic and out of sorts, he screams for his son, Charlie, unaware that he is living in a parallel universe of his own life. Same body, same people, same thoughts, same memory, different past. With no one to believe his crazy stories of former events, not even his wife, Rick struggles to find a way out of this twisted "many worlds" parallel universe he has been thrown into.

I thought this book was a great illustration of the "many worlds" quantum physics theory. I found that parts of this book reminded me of my own writing and how descriptive and in depth it went to show every true detail of his life. Although, confusing at times, I liked this book a lot.

some sexual innuendos and deep topics.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: , PA USA

Blog Tour Interview with Author Ken Mochizuki

Ever since the 1993 publication of his multi-award-winning, best-selling picture book, Baseball Saved Us (over half a million sold to date), Ken Mochizuki has made over 100 presentations around the country at schools, libraries, community centers and educators’ conferences to ages K-Adult. Ken’s books include: Baseball Saved Us, Heroes, Passage to Freedom: the Sugihara Story, Beacon Hill Boys, and Be Water, My Friend: the Early Years of Bruce Lee. Among the awards his books have earned include the Washington State Governor’s Writers Award and the national Parents’ Choice Award, American Bookseller “Pick of the Lists,” American Library Association Notable Book, International Reading Association Teachers’ Choices, Smithsonian Notable Books for Children and the Jane Addams Children’s Book Awards Honor Book.

When and why did you begin writing?
In 1981, while working as a professional actor in Los Angeles, I also had time to read the “classic” American novels that I should have in high school and college. I thought about becoming a writer instead, so I started writing my own novel at that time which would eventually become “Beacon Hill Boys.” I originally wrote it as an adult novel, but then the opportunity came along to turn it into a YA novel which was published in 2002.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
Probably when I first seriously said to myself that I am going to be one – not just thinking about it or talking about it, but actually doing it. So, if I was going to be a writer, I had to learn how to write. I returned to my hometown, Seattle, that same year (1981) and started writing for local newspapers. Being a journalist taught me a lot about writing, especially about being concise – saying the most with the least amount of words, which would help tremendously in the genre of “juvenile literature,” especially in writing picture books.

What inspired you to write your first book?
In 1981 when I still lived in Los Angeles, I heard of the murder of a friend who was also an instructor of mine at the University of Washington (it was later uncovered that he was assassinated by orders from the regime of the former dictator of the Philippines). That incident made me think of those days when I was attending the university during the early ‘70s, when I was involved with others in fighting for the “Asian American” identity instead of being called “Orientals.” It was also a unique time all over America, and I wanted to recall those times and pay tribute to it.

Who or what has influenced your writing?
Aside from being a journalist, the Asian American authors who came before me and are currently writing books, especially fiction, are major influences. Another major influence – although I didn’t know it at the time – were the TV series of the ‘60s. “Combat,” an early ‘60s series about GIs in France during World War II, the original “Star Trek,” “Mission: Impossible” and especially “The Twilight Zone” were often brilliantly written and were actually 30- 60-minute short stories. Looking back, that’s where I learned story structure, character development and the character arc, the beginning, middle and end.

What genre are you most comfortable writing?
My books so far have been in the picture book and YA categories, both fiction and non-fiction, so those are what I’m used to so far. I tend to gravitate toward historical fiction – “Beacon Hill Boys” has been put in that category. But, all writing isn’t easy and – contrary to what most people might think – picture books are the hardest because so few words are required to tell the story. I often use this analogy: writing picture books is like driving on city streets, where you travel slow and have to stop for the lights and signs. Novels are like hitting the freeway and opening it up.

Is there a message in Beacon Hill Boys that you want readers to grasp?
Young people who know their histories, their family histories, are more proud and self-confident when they know of the achievements of their own. The underlying theme of the novel is the protagonist and his friends’ search for something to be proud of. Also, I wanted readers to know that everything that might be taken for granted today was gained by those before them who fought, struggled and sacrificed.

Is the book based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
“Beacon Hill Boys” started out as a sort of disguised autobiography, or at least about that time in my life. And as fiction writing goes, and when you start working with an editor, there are plot changes and cuts, characters change, or multiple characters are morphed into one. So, even though some of the incidents portrayed in the book did actually happen in my life, the story is still a work of fiction.

Can you tell us two of your favorite books?
My favorite of all time is Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” and that novel is often considered to be YA now. I would have to say another would be “The Wizard of Oz.”

What book are you reading now?
A lot of the books I read are for research for my present writing project. However, a memorable book I read this year would be Sherman Alexie’s “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian.”

What are you currently working on?
A YA novel set mostly in an incarceration camp for Japanese Americans during World War II.

Do you have any advice for young writers?
Read – that is the only way you will see how words are put together to become good writing and good books. And not only books, but read newspapers, news magazines – any form that tells a story. It is said that some of the best writers are sports columnists. Then you have to become a good observer. Everybody has the ability to look, but not everybody has the ability to see. Why do people do what they do? Then put those words together and write and write. It is a process in which you can be taught all the “how tos,” but it is also one in which you can only learn by doing.

Thanks again to Ken Mochizuki for appearing, courtesy of Provato Marketing, for other stops on the tour please check Provato Events.

Indie Girl by Arne Johnson and Karen Macklin

Start something new! This book helps you to accomplish goals and possibly even dreams as you read through the nine different possibilities to choose from. The options are: starting a band, publishing a zine, creating an art exhibit, forming a dance troupe, making a parade, filming a TV show, putting on a play, launching a fashion company, and holding a poetry show. This book gives inspiration to teenage girls who would love to accomplish something early in life. It gives you details and step-by-step guidance on getting started and what you'll need along the way. So, if you want to make use of those talents we all know you possess, this book is for you!

Indie Girl is a very inspirational book that makes me want to go out and achieve my goals. I really liked the setup of this guide because it was really easy to follow and understand what you are supposed to do. It listed all of the steps and the supplies that you'll need along the way. I liked how it gave you a list of nine different activities to choose from, and the topics were of interest as well. I recommend Indie Girl to teenage girls who are looking for an early start to a career or just for something fun to do in their spare time.

Reviewer Age:14

Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA USA

Palace of Mirrors

Cecilia lives as a peasant in a small town. But, secretly, she knows that she is princess who is being hidden from the enemies of the kingdom for her safety. It's a normal day in hiding for Cecilia, who is out with her friend Harper. But she feels like her enemies are following her. She decides it is in her best interest to go to the palace, reclaim her throne, and take over her duty as princess from the decoy princess Desmia. Once Cecilia gets to the palace, things get strange. She is introduced to other girls just like her who claim that they are the true princess. Is Cecilia the real princess? Who are those other girls? Will she be captured by the enemies before she finds out the truth?

Palace of Mirrors is a quick, fun, one-day kind of read that doesn't require much thought. The story carries itself and moves at a pace that isn't so slow that you lose interest. Although it is predictable, author Margaret Peterson Haddix throws in a few curve balls to make it more surprising in the end. Overall, Haddix has created a story that seems to be generic on the outside: a story about a princess who is being hunted by evil. But after reading the book, I realize that it explored issues that people go through every day, from friendship and love to finding yourself and your destiny in the world.

Reviewer Age: 14

Reviewer City, State and Country: Champaign, IL USA

Banana by Dan Koeppel

With every bite of this book, you will sink into the information. There are many different genres to this book. It is history, and a science adventure all to explain the fate and mystery of bananas. This author is crazy about bananas, so you can see all of the passion in his words. You will learn about your everyday fruit in an interesting way.

I thought that this book was very informational and great! I loved learning about all of these things about the bannana. It made me look at the fruit in a different way. Now I am shouting facts to all of my friends about bananas. This book made me go bananas.

Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, PA U.S

Interview with Author Maureen McQuerry

Maureen McQuerry is a writer and teacher living in Richland, Washington. She is the author of Nuclear Legacy, (IP award winner) and Student Inquiry, and her new YA fantasy novel, Traveler's Market, released in July with Idylls Press. It is the second in the Wolfproof Trilogy.



What inspired you to write Traveler’s Market?
It’s the sequel to Wolfproof and follows naturally from the first adventure when characters from Celtic myth get involved in the lies of three middle school students. Traveler’s Market explains why these mythic figures choose Timothy James Maxwell. It also begins the quest for the Stone of Destiny, an important piece of Timothy’s own destiny. The more I researched British and Celtic mythology, the more intrigued I became with the legends. The battle scene at the market is based on the legendary Battle of the Trees.

The character of Nom the rat catcher was inspired by a “skunk exterminator” who helped us get rid of a skunk family under our porch. During a trip to NY’s Central Park, I was intrigued by the gates and their inscriptions. The Hunter’s Gate became the portal to the market. So many details come together to inspire and build a story.

Why did you choose the fantasy genre?
Fantasy is the most popular genre for middle grade and YA audiences. One reason is that fantasy allows us, the reader, to be the hero that slays the dragon. It reminds us that we are all more than meets the eye. I think that’s a powerful message for all readers, but especially for middle grade students who are trying to fit in and decide who they are. G.K. Chesterton says: “Fairytales are more than true, not because they tell us there are dragons, but because they tell us the dragon can be defeated.” We know there are dragons in the world, but it also important to know that even the most unlikely person can be the one to defeat the dragon. The best fantasy is ennobling. That’s why we love the Lord of the Rings, Chronicles of Narnia and Harry Potter. It’s the ancient battle of good against evil.

How does your experience as an educator influence your writing?
My students inhabit my stories. Not actual students, but bits and pieces of many of them. Because I worked with gifted kids for many years, the protagonists of the Wolfproof Trilogy, Timothy, Sarah and Jessica all fit into that category. Timothy especially finds himself an outsider in school. The things that fascinate him, words, puzzles, inventions don’t always resonate with his friends. In fact, when Timothy wants to think of just the right word, he pictures Scrabble tiles and adds up the points. I’ve had students tell me that the dialogue is very realistic. I guess it’s because I still have their voices ringing in my ears.

I also believe that middle grade students deserve beautiful writing. While plot and action are important, beautiful language, interesting vocabulary should be part of the books they read. It is difficult to find literary middle grade fiction. I wanted to write some.

Can you mention some of your favorite YA books?
Once and Future King—TH White—King Arthur, Merlin and the round table.
Peace Like a River---not marketed YA but with a compelling YA narrator—great storytelling!
Hobbit—Tolkein of course!
I Capture the Castle—Romance, growing up and figuring out who you are.
Dark is Rising series—Susan Cooper

What book are you reading now?
Summer! Such a great time to read and I read three books I want to mention.
The Invention of Everything Else by Samantha Hunt set in historical NY has a touch of magical realism, Alfred Tessla who invented the radio and a flying machine.
The Confessions of Max Tivoli—the story of Max, born looking like a old man who becomes physically younger as he ages, is poignant.
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle—Hamlet, dogs and a mute boy all rolled into one beautifully written, sad story.

Do you have any advice for young writers?
Yes! Write! Don’t put off writing because you don’t feel inspired. If people waited to be inspired books would not be written. Don’t put off writing because you don’t think you’re not old enough to publish. There are plenty of publishing opportunities for young writers. See the student writers tab on my website http://www.maureenmcquerry.com/ for some suggestions.

Write every day. Every time you write you get a little bit better.

Read! The best writers are readers. Read a wide variety of genres and styles. Stretch yourself. And read like a writer. Go back and see how a writer does something you admire. How do they make the character so real? How did they manage to scare you, make you laugh or cry.

Some of the best advice comes from a writer I admire, Jane Yolen. B.I.C. Butt in Chair!
Many people have great ideas, but the hard work is showing up every day and putting those ideas on paper when there are so many other things that call for our attention.


Thanks again to Maureen McQuerry for appearing, courtesy of Provato Marketing, for other stops on the blog tour please check Provato Events.

Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls

Rock 'n' Roll Camp For Girls is a very informative book about starting bands, writing songs, and so much more. It contains many inspiring stories of aspiring artists and already successful ones as well. Good advice on instruments, recording songs, and taking chances is scattered throughout the book. It really reaches out and speaks to any girl that loves music. Step by step, the book walks you through everything you need to do to really rock out and have fun.

This book was straight to the point and I really learned a lot about music and the music industry. I thought the author's themes of being true to yourself and chasing your dreams were very motivating for teens. Not every single chapter interested me but overall the book was a success. I would definitely recommend this to any aspiring musician, singer, or songwriter. Not every chapter will apply to everyone, but it is easy to pick out the parts that interest you. This book sent out a good message and holds a lot of good advice.

Reviewer Age:14

Reviewer City, State and Country: Richmond, Virginia USA

The Order of Odd Fish by James Kennedy

This novel is both fantasy and comedy. I consider this book a comedy because some portions of the story are so ridiculous they are actually funny. The main character is Jo Lauroche, who lives with her Aunt Lily in the California desert. Lily is not Jo's true aunt, but no one knows who Jo is actually related to and Lily has a large, mysterious gap in her memory. Therefore, Lily has raised Jo. Lily used to be a famous actress, and she still throws a big Christmas party every year for her old Hollywood friends. One year, violence suddenly erupts at the party, directed at Jo. Jo and Lily are protected by a Russian colonel and a giant, talking cockroach. Multiple villains, including the one responsible for the violence at the party, begin chasing Jo and Lily. While on the run, Jo, Lily, the cockroach, and the colonel wind up in Eldritch City. Lily then regains her memory and remembers Jo's dark origin. They join the Order of Odd-Fish, which is a group of knights that find useless information. There, Jo learns about her fate while exploring Eldritch City and making friends and enemies.

I liked this book. It was ridiculous but that made it funny. At some points it was too weird to be funny. The plot was very simple. The emphasis of the story was on the outrageous setting and characters. To read this book, it is probably best to like satire and comedy.

Reviewer Age:14

Reviewer City, State and Country: Royersford, PA United States

The Eyes of a King by Catherine Banner

Leo North is a gifted child. Though it is not apparent, his magical gifts must be suppressed under the laws of the kingdom. Leo lives in Malonia, a land ruled by the worst of kings who puts all his people under worry and strain. Leo's life has no prospects and appears bleak until he find a plain blank book in the snow. From the first time writing appears in the book, Leo is thrown into the minds of others and his life begins to change. Through the black book he is shown the life of Aldebranan, an exile who has similar yet stronger powers than Leo. This opens Leo's eyes to the hidden world just out of his reach. He must balance experiencing these secrets with striving for a normal life in the broken down kingdom he lives in. Leo's life becomes even more stressful when his brother falls critical ill and Leo is taken to fight the war. When everything goes wrong and you can't live another day, anything seems possible.

This was a very complicated book. It took me a while to get enthused about it as it is rather slow to start. However, once it became riveting and exciting, it was very hard to put down. The Eyes of a King was a creative and intriguing read which provoked a lot of thought. Leo is faced with decisions and situations which would be terrifying in reality. Watching them unfold in his life
was extremely confronting. I felt that I really related to this book and it both made me cry tears for the characters and be truly happy when things went their way. I found a few errors in the text, more than in most books and I often found myself lost with unnecessary complications with
how the story was written. The Eyes of a King was written by a girl of only fourteen years old and was her first novel. Knowing this, it was an exceptional debut and I will expect great things to come from this young author.

General mature content
Rating: 8

Reviewer Age: 14

Reviewer City, State and Country: Melbourne, Victoria. Australia

The Magician

When Nicholas Flamel, Sophie, Josh, and Scatty flee from Ojai, California, and the unpleasant John Dee, they end up in Paris. (They get there by passing through a leygate that was opened by The Witch of Endor.) They have lost the very important book of Abraham the Mage to John Dee and the Dark Elders, except for two key pages. Unfortunately, a certain disturbing character called Niccolo Machiavelli teams up with John Dee to hunt them down in order to obtain the above mentioned remaining two pages of the book of Abraham. The book is important because it has extremely dangerous secrets -- it could destroy or heal the world. All that is necessary to obtain that dangerous secret are the two missing pages. There is also the minor detail that without it (the book), Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel waste away, aging a year each and every day. Perenelle happens to be on Alcatraz Island, guarded by a sphinx, and alone besides said sphinx except for a few ghosts. Her escape of the island is quite remarkable. Luckily, the group of Nicholas Flamel, the Twins, and Scatty has help. In Paris, they find assistance in Joan of Arc and the Comte de Saint-Germain, an alchemist, magician, and rock-star. This is truly a story full of adventure, surprises, and big explosions.

If you are searching for a book full of action, suspense, adventure, and supposedly long-dead famous people, then this is the book for you. The book was full of interesting people and places, as well as special powers, such as the fact that Sophie learned the second element-- fire Magic. It was a pretty good read, but it was not excellent. The book was well written, and the language used was interesting, but some of it just was not compatible with the rest of the story. For instance, the characters’ feelings sometimes did not seem real, mainly Josh’s and Sophie’s. Josh keeps feeling hurt that he was not awakened while terrifying monsters are after him. Sophie is pretty oblivious to Josh’s feelings throughout the entire story. It seems to me like Josh has his priorities backwards. The book was not a hard read, but it was not an enormously easy one, either. There were some pretty interesting scenes, such as when Saint-Germain lit up the Eiffel Tower with his fire magic. This series will not be the next Harry Potter, but it is still a worthwhile read. I would recommend this book, but it would be wise to read The Alchemyst (the first book in the series) before this one.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: Charleston, SC USA

Untamed by P.C Cast & Kristin Cast

Zoey started off on the wrong path. Her friends won't talk to her, some mysterious ghost-like thing is out to get her, and the one friend who does talk to her has visions of Zoey dying. Zoey has been marked; she is a vampyre. She's living in the House of Night school. Zoey is trying to pull everything together again like it used to be, but it's hard when she starts disagreeing with everyone about having war with humans, and when she starts seeing her old friend Stevie Rae again. Zoey just needs to calm down and try to deal with everything at once.

Untamed is okay. It didn't capture my attention right away. Since it is in a series, I had no idea what had happened or was happening at the time. It was difficult to follow along with but I often found myself drifting off while reading this book. Some of this book kept me entertained or was exciting, but overall I didn't really enjoy reading this book. I would not recommend this to anyone who hasn't read the first three books because the beginning is hard to understand.

Reviewer Age:12

Reviewer City, State and Country: Midlothian, VA USA

Cybele's Secret by Juliet Marillier

Paula, though a young girl of seventeen, is a scholar. She is very intelligent and loves to learn. So when her father needs someone to accompany him to Istanbul for his trading business, she is the perfect person. Being her father's secretary may be unorthodox, especially in the Muslim culture of Istanbul, but when Paula discovers that her father is trying to bid for a valuable religious artifact, she becomes even more excited. What she doesn't know is that The Other Kingdom, a magical realm that Paula and her sisters used to visit, has a quest for her, involving the artifact called Cybele's Gift. Paula must face riddles and puzzles, pirates and sea chases, true love and betrayal in order to complete the challenge set before her.

Cybele's Secret was an interesting book. At first, I didn't like it. In the beginning it was slow-going, because the writing was thick and flowery, which made it a chore to read. But as I continued and the plot presented itself, I started to get into the novel. I really liked the protagonist Paula, because she didn't let the barriers of her time stop her from pursuing her one true love: learning. The book could have been a lot shorter, but the ending tied up all the loose ends nicely. It even had a bit of romance, which made the book a lot better. All in all, a good read. Also, make sure you read its companion novel, Wildwood Dancing, which was actually written first.

Reviewer Age: 16

Reviewer City, State and Country: Aston, Pennsylvania United States

Falling Man by Don Delillo

Falling Man by Don DeLillo is a horrific, yet brilliant novel about the moments, days, and years after the terrorist attacks of September 11. Readers dive into the lives of a group of New Yorkers: Keith, who worked in the north tower and survived the attack, his wife, Lianne, unable to free herself from such haunting memories, and their son, Justin, who searches the skies for Bill Lawton, the man who said he will attack again. Readers also branch out into the lives of others in close proximity to the family, and we see how September 11 permeated through all of us. DeLillo provides a powerful and unmitigated vision of a most-terrifying day in history through the scope of ordinary people; a scope shared by all who remember that day and how it chilled us to the core.

DeLillo is magnificent in his use of vivid imagery to recount the events of that fateful day. His reference to organic shrapnel, pieces of suicide bombers lodged into victims, is far more than eerie. His ability to allow readers such a strong imagination of the scene paves the way to one of the strongest themes of the novel: the intertwining of reality and imagination. Such an attack on the World Trade Center seemed like something we could only visualize in a movie. However, the raw reality of the events crosses over into something that was once considered unbelievable. DeLillo takes this idea and brings it into the lives of Keith and his family. Their exchange of dialogue suggests that after 9/11, anything is possible. Though the title may not seem to fit initially, it is the only title that works for this novel. The iconic photo of The Falling Man was one of the few things that seemed to be forgotten from that day. The media shied away from publishing it, and the public was content to turn a blind eye. However, the hundreds who jumped from the burning towers may be the best image to accurately characterize that day because it brings the imaginative to life. DeLillo recognizes the power of The Falling Man, and he has produced a lasting image that no one will forget.

Frightening images and sexual references. Recommended for advanced readers only.

Reviewer Age:18

Reviewer City, State and Country: Eden Prairie, Minnesota United States

Breaking Down by Stephenie Meyer

The fourth and final of Stephanie Meyer's amazingly intriguing and beautiful vampire romance novel, Breaking Dawn, is one that really delivers. Meyer's gave all and more than what was expected in this highly anticipated end to a wonderful story. The book is cleverly divided into three parts. The first and last part from Bella's point of view, and the second part from Jacob Black's. In the first section, Edward and Bella finally tie the knot and have their one night of attempting pleasure. By the end of the first part of the book, an unexpected bomb shell is dropped that could mean happiness, pain or both, for the blissful newlywed couple.

For the first time in the saga the point of view is changed in the second part of Breaking Dawn to that of adored werewolf and best friend of Bella's, Jacob Black. In this part we get a good look into the minds of all the wolves and this is a crucial tool when the next big event occurs. In Jacob's part Meyer skillfully includes a split in the headstrong pack. And once again at the end of Jacob's part another bomb shell is dropped. This one could mean the end of a friendship or the start of a relationship.

In the final part, we are back in Bella's point of view. All the loose ends are tied up and the predicted confrontation with the elusive Volturi occurs, to a scale that is unimaginable. I must emphasize that so much more goes on in Breaking Dawn but I will let you find all that out for yourself.

I love Breaking Dawn to pieces!! Stephanie writes in such a way that makes it feel like you are truly in Bella's place, living the unreal things that she is. Being an avid fan of the Twilight Saga I had been counting down until the release date of this book and upon reading it I was gladly not disappointed. Meyer wields her magic until the very end, making a 780 page book mystifying, page turning, and fascinating until the very last word. Girls are left drooling at Edward and his brothers and relating or feeling slightly awestruck towards Bella and her sisters' in law. Out of all the books in the Saga, the original Twilight is my favourite but Breaking Dawn certainly gives its position a run for its money. I would definitely recommend Breaking Dawn and the whole Saga to any teenage girls.
Sexual References
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Melbourne , Victoria Australia

Kasumi by Surt Lim

Kasumi is a self-taught magician. She loves to do magic tricks for everyone. On her way to transfer into an elite high school for celebrities and people with high connections, she goes into a forest with her father. In the forest she follows a firefly to a tree in the very middle of the forest. While climbing the tree, she accidentally falls, and should have been killed, but the firefly saves her. She passes out, and wakes up in her new home. When she gets to the school, she meets the super cool student body president, Ryuuki. She tries to talk to him, and angers his fan club. They give her a challenge: impress Ryuuki with her magic, or forever leave their high school. The magic show goes horribly wrong, in the process, Kasumi discovers she can turn invisible when she holds her breath, and the "firefly" might have something to do with it.

This manga is an awesome read. The words and illustrations work together perfectly to give off an amazing effect. The storyline is rich and full of detail. It kept me interested until the end. The illustrations are very detailed and precise. The characters are very defined and have their own separate personalities; none of them do anything out of character. I really enjoyed reading this manga and cannot wait to read the next one in the Kasumi series.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, PA USA

Pirates & Smugglers

Pirates are often viewed as drunk, wearing a long coat, an eye patch, and a cutlass. There is much more history behind them than that. Pirates have been in existence since around 2500 B.C. and are still around today. They have earned several names such as Vikings, barbarians, privateers, conquistadores, and buccaneers. No matter what they are called, they all share a common trait. They commit violent acts for profit. In the past, their living conditions were not very good. There were often food shortages on their ships and pirates would be tortured if caught by the authorities. Overall, the violent image that movies show of pirates is not much of a lie at all.

To many fantasy and adventure readers, pirates are a subject of interest. I have learned many things about them on my own, and I hoped that this book would teach me more. While I learned new information and specific details from it, I was slightly disappointed. There was too much text to read. It was confusing because it was all over the page in small sections. On the other hand, each page had brilliant pictures that the reader could look at for a long time. I recommend this book to anyone studying pirates or to anyone deeply interested in them.

There are images unsuitable for younger children.
Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America

Moxy Maxwell Does Not Love Writing Thank-you Notes

In the book "Moxy Maxwell Does Not Love Writing Thank-you Notes", a girl named Moxy Maxwell has a thank-you note disaster. It all starts on the day after Christmas when Moxy has to write twelve thank-you notes before she goes to bed or she doesn't get to fly to Hollywood to see her dad. Everything gets worse when she decides to make a copy of her thank-you note on her step-dad's new copier. Will Moxy get her thank-you notes finished in time to visit her dad? Read this book and find out.

This book is fun-filled and funny. The situations Moxy gets into are amusing and make you want to read on. There are many characters and each one has a unique personality. Some of these include, Granny who is humorous and forgetful, Mark, Moxy's brother, who is a genius at making things work, and Pansy, Moxy's sister, who wants to be a turtle when she grows-up. You never know what is going to happen. A kid of any age will enjoy this book. It is a quick and easy read. The only low point was that the ending could have been a little more detailed.


Reviewer Age:11

Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, Missouri USA

Ballet Stories by Harriet Castor

The Pirouette is a collection of fiction short stories based on ballet life. Harriet Castor has chosen the stories for the book. The book has sixteen short stories meant for teens. The focus is the different problems and achievements made by young girls in the ballet world. Harriet Castor wrote one story called Grace, based on how a young girl who did not have the dream of ballet but her mom did.

Each of the stories focused on one young lady in the ballet world. One story may be about school and ballet or about repeated frustrations during work outs. Most stories were set in English schools and homes. It was hard to see them due to not knowing England's countryside or the differences in school systems that came up frequently. The book would be wonderful for hopeful future ballerinas. The everyday teen may have a hardtime sticking with the book due to its focus solely on ballet.

Reviewer Age:20

Reviewer City, State and Country: Marble Hill, Missouri Bolliger

T4 by Ann Clare LeZotte

Subject: T4 Date: 09-09-2008
Author: flamingnet12

This novel was about a young girl named, Paula. Paula is deaf, but is has created a type of sign laungage that she and her family and friends can understand. Paula life was in the time of Hitler, so because Paula was deaf she was in danger from a plan called T4. This plan was to murder all the people with problems. So Paula must flee from her town and family who understand her so well to stay alive.

I found that I couldn't put this book down. It was so amazing. Although it was really true and it really got to you, it really gave you a sense of what life was like back then. This book is really rich in detail and is a great story. I would say that anybody who is in to learning about WWII should read this book.

Rating 7
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, MO USA

Fairy Tale 2 by Hiro Mashima

Lucy is a beautiful celestial wizard who has formed a team with fire wizard Natsu and a strange cat with wings. They are part of a mage guild, Fairy Tail, and have just received a task. Together, they have to steal a book from the notorious Duke Everlue. However, Everlue has hired special guards to kill anyone who comes near. If they survive then they will start their second mission to battle the increasing Dark Guild. Can Lucy and Natsu make it past their first mission to help with the second?

Reading manga is a different experience for all readers. This one in particular is fantasy; it is complete with magic and monsters. I loved how intricate the drawings were, and how the words to the story matched perfectly. The plot was never boring, and I found myself unable to put the book down. Also, the characters were all well put together and had very realistic personalities. I recommend the first volume of Fairy Tale to any manga or fantasy lover.
Reviewer Age:15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America

The Worst-Case Scenario Handbook by David Borgenicht & Justin Heimberg

Most people wouldn't know what to do if a rhino were charging at them. The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook teaches you lots of ways to survive in different cases. This book discusses how to survive at sea, in the mountains, and in the desert. It also includes how to survive in the jungle, in the arctic, and on a safari. If you complete this survival handbook, you'll know how to fend off a shark, avoid a bear attack, or stop a runaway camel. Readers may also learn how to remove a leech, build a snow cave, and even how to track animals.

Being informed about how to stay alive is a good benefit to everyone. That is why this book was a great read. I highly doubt that I will ever need to know any of these survival techniques, but if I do, then I will be very happy I read them. Since this is a junior edition, the writing was geared towards 9-12 year olds. Some of the jokes that were made were kind of childish. Overall, the vocabulary and images were easy to understand and made it easy to follow along. I recommend this book to younger readers who want to go traveling or have a spare hour to read.

Reviewer Age:15

Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America

Rating: 7

Content Rating: 1

Dream GIrl By Lauren Mechling

Claire Voyante has a very unique life. Her parents are French; her little brother takes midnight walks; she has a couture grandmother, and her best friend is a condiment heiress. But the most extraordinary thing about Claire is her ability to have special black-and-white dreams that lead her on dangerous and exciting adventures. How can Claire manage high school, new friends, jealous rivals, a crazy family and these bizarre dreams? It's not until she comes across a magical cameo necklace that the mysterious truth starts to unfold.


Lauren Mechling's novel, Dream Girl, is a great mystery novel. Claire Voyante is a wonderful detective with her quirks and wit. She makes the plots interesting and exciting. The twists and turns of the novel are always surprising and enjoyable. Mechling develops each character with good supporting details, and I feet well acquainted with the characters. I like how the novel deals with issues of friendship and trust in a very entertaining mystery novel. Mechling introduces the "dream" as a clever mechanism to explain Claire's fantastic mystery-solving abilities. This makes me want to explore Claire's dream world again in a future novel!


Reviewer Age:17

Reviewer City, State and Country: Phoenix, MD United States

The Devil's Breath by David Gilman

When an assassin tries to kill Max Gordon while he's out on a run, Max knows his life will never be the same. Finding out his dad is missing only proves his point. A wild goose chase to find his father leads him to Namibia, where he meets a bushman named !Koga, and quickly befriends him. !Koga and Max together try to find his dad, who they discover may have uncovered evidence that proves Shaka Chang is behind a mass ecological disaster and will kill millions unless the evidence is found. Will !Koga and Max be able to save Max's dad, along with the millions Shaka Chang is out to kill? The Devils Breath by David Gilman is the only way for you to find out!
I was pleasantly surprised by The Devil's Breath. I am not a big fan of action/adventure, so I didn't think I would enjoy the book. Boy was I wrong! I was unable to put the book down! It kept me on my toes and had me guessing, all while feeling a connection with the main character Max Gordon. The twists and turns made it unpredictable, and I was shocked in almost every chapter. Anyone who wants an exciting, well-written, and all-around great book needs to grab a copy of The Devil's Breath, by David Gilman.

Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona USA