One second Veronica and Heather were in a bookstore. Next second they had been transported into the fantasy world of "Queen of Twilight" Things go wrong right off the back. First, Heather shatters the heroine of the book: Princess Arabelle. Then, Heather is mistaken for Princess Arabelle. Veronica has read "Queen of Twilight" before and will do all she can to make sure the story goes and should while Heather follows nothing but her heart. With a wizard, a servant elf, and a talking squirrel's help, these two girls must face a great evil. Will this motely band manage to defeat the evil and survive?
When you pick this book up and look at it, you may think: "Oh, just another story about an unlikely group of heros who defeat a great evil. Been there, done that." However, this book is different. Things don't always work out the way they wanted. Also, the whole trip is inlaid with humor and lessons. The characters are all intiguing and lovable. An abosolute page turner, I would say this book is the funniest and most lovable unlikely hero story. Content is appropriate for all ages.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Tucson, Arizona Pima
Saturday, June 17, 2006
The Adventures of Vin Fiz by Clive Cussler
This bool is about twin 11 year-olds who live in Castroville, California, that survives on artichokes. While Lacey and Casey were working on their plantation, a mysterious stranger, named Sucoh Sucop, agrees to work with their parents in exchange for food and shelter. When Sucoh Sucop leaves, he leaves the twins a gift. The gift turns out to be a box that changes toys into usable objects. Soon the twins are traveling, with their dog Floopy, cross country. They travel on an old fashioned, Wright Brothers air plane.
I was not impressed by this book. It had too much adventure and it was hard to follow. Plus the scenes were very similar and it was too predictible. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy adventure but it was too predictible. I like the auther's adult books. I do although recommend it to readers who REALLY enjoy constent adventure.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, IL
I was not impressed by this book. It had too much adventure and it was hard to follow. Plus the scenes were very similar and it was too predictible. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy adventure but it was too predictible. I like the auther's adult books. I do although recommend it to readers who REALLY enjoy constent adventure.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, IL
David Crockett: Hero of the Common Man by William Groneman III
Another book in the "American Heroes" series, this one by William Groneman III, the narration walks the reader through the exploits of Davy Crockett, a man most Americans think of as the man in the ‘coon-skin cap. The novel covers his lifespan in its entirety, additionally debunking popular myths about the man along the way. In sort of a “subtheme,” Groneman also examines the number of times that Crockett almost died, implying a sort of luck and ‘invincibility’ of this “American hero.”
I was more pleased with this book than the last “American Heroes” book I read (George Washington: First in War, First in Peace). In general, while the narrative was just as straightforward and spartan, it was enjoyable to read what “actually” (“actually” is in quotations for a reason—you’ll see in the next paragraph) happened to Mr. Crockett, as opposed to popular opinion. The book moved at a decent pace, and I found my mind wandering only during the description of then-Congressman Crockett’s tour of the East Coast. You pretty much get a day-by-day breakdown of a month-long trip, and, sorry, but 19th-century political-inspired travel with a “boys will be boys” mentality just doesn’t hold my interest. Some of the hunting trips also made me zone out, but surprisingly the author kept those descriptions to a minimum, only retelling important or pivotal trips that had either unintended events or consequences. Of course, I do have two complaints about the book, but neither are something to hold the presses about. As in the previous “AH” book, there is a distinct lack of maps and diagrams. While I understand the importance of the written word and how it’s written, most high school kids are not going to be able to recall the exact composition of the US in the early 19th century at the drop of a hat. Any sort of map would make the tale easier to follow, since less time would be spent dusting off the US history and figuring out who was doing what where and why. The second one pertains directly to this book: the author keeps his passion for the topic under wraps for most of the book, expressing it through his writing, but the last two chapters he lets the bear out of the cellar. This in itself isn’t reprehensible, but it breaks out during a chapter discussing the false descriptions and legends of Mr. Crockett. During this section, Groneman discusses with voracity the inaccuracies of most Crockett biographies, and how many throughout the years have portrayed throughout the years what they believe to be “correct.” He’s perfectly within his right saying this, obviously, since he is somewhat of an authority on the subject, but that leaves an ominous question in the air: What’s to say that this book is accurate? While I have no real reason to doubt Groneman, since this is his area of expertise, not mine, professed ‘authorities’ in years past have also made the same claim. His tale may be backed up by tangible, authentic evidence, but I’m a doubting Thomas on this one—show me, and then I’ll accept without question that this is a true portrayal of how things were. In terms of rating, I’d have to say a 7.5 out of 10. While I’d be much more likely to reread this over GW: FiW, FiP; I still wouldn’t leap for it. The prose is very dry and informational, and while the book was very readable, the tone works best for scholarly writing, not for an intended high school audience. However, if someone approached me asking about a short read dealing with Texas, Crockett, or the West in general, I’d at least mention this book in the course of discussion. The points the text raises certainly provides enough for contemplation and comparing to popular legend…and also enough to fuel any book group discussion about comparing/contrasting man vs. myth.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 19
Reviewer City, State and Country: Rochester, New York United States
I was more pleased with this book than the last “American Heroes” book I read (George Washington: First in War, First in Peace). In general, while the narrative was just as straightforward and spartan, it was enjoyable to read what “actually” (“actually” is in quotations for a reason—you’ll see in the next paragraph) happened to Mr. Crockett, as opposed to popular opinion. The book moved at a decent pace, and I found my mind wandering only during the description of then-Congressman Crockett’s tour of the East Coast. You pretty much get a day-by-day breakdown of a month-long trip, and, sorry, but 19th-century political-inspired travel with a “boys will be boys” mentality just doesn’t hold my interest. Some of the hunting trips also made me zone out, but surprisingly the author kept those descriptions to a minimum, only retelling important or pivotal trips that had either unintended events or consequences. Of course, I do have two complaints about the book, but neither are something to hold the presses about. As in the previous “AH” book, there is a distinct lack of maps and diagrams. While I understand the importance of the written word and how it’s written, most high school kids are not going to be able to recall the exact composition of the US in the early 19th century at the drop of a hat. Any sort of map would make the tale easier to follow, since less time would be spent dusting off the US history and figuring out who was doing what where and why. The second one pertains directly to this book: the author keeps his passion for the topic under wraps for most of the book, expressing it through his writing, but the last two chapters he lets the bear out of the cellar. This in itself isn’t reprehensible, but it breaks out during a chapter discussing the false descriptions and legends of Mr. Crockett. During this section, Groneman discusses with voracity the inaccuracies of most Crockett biographies, and how many throughout the years have portrayed throughout the years what they believe to be “correct.” He’s perfectly within his right saying this, obviously, since he is somewhat of an authority on the subject, but that leaves an ominous question in the air: What’s to say that this book is accurate? While I have no real reason to doubt Groneman, since this is his area of expertise, not mine, professed ‘authorities’ in years past have also made the same claim. His tale may be backed up by tangible, authentic evidence, but I’m a doubting Thomas on this one—show me, and then I’ll accept without question that this is a true portrayal of how things were. In terms of rating, I’d have to say a 7.5 out of 10. While I’d be much more likely to reread this over GW: FiW, FiP; I still wouldn’t leap for it. The prose is very dry and informational, and while the book was very readable, the tone works best for scholarly writing, not for an intended high school audience. However, if someone approached me asking about a short read dealing with Texas, Crockett, or the West in general, I’d at least mention this book in the course of discussion. The points the text raises certainly provides enough for contemplation and comparing to popular legend…and also enough to fuel any book group discussion about comparing/contrasting man vs. myth.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 19
Reviewer City, State and Country: Rochester, New York United States
Lulu Dark and the Summer of the Fox by Bennett Madison
In the sequel to Lulu Dark can see through walls. Lulu finds herself in the midst of another adventure. Lulu's mom a B-list actress has disappeared, and Lulu sets out to find her. Along the way Lulu meets an egotistical up and coming actress, a kung-fu fighting bodygaurd, and a pudgy mommas boy director. only the worst is yet to come a crazy middle aged actress is out in the Hollywood world pulling horrible pranks on unsuspecting actresses, and Lulu knows she is the only one who can stop it.
I absolutely loved this book. Lulu is such a funny protagonist along with her best friends Daisy and Charlie. I could not even put the book down. Even though I would recommend that you read the first book, or you won't understand Lulu. It is completely hilarious and worth reading, if you want a good laugh read Lulu Dark and the Summer of the Fox.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: , Oregon USA
I absolutely loved this book. Lulu is such a funny protagonist along with her best friends Daisy and Charlie. I could not even put the book down. Even though I would recommend that you read the first book, or you won't understand Lulu. It is completely hilarious and worth reading, if you want a good laugh read Lulu Dark and the Summer of the Fox.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: , Oregon USA
Monday, June 05, 2006
Under the Baseball Moon by John H. Ritter
Under The Baseball Moon by John H. Ritter is a book about a teenage boy named Andy. Andy has dreams of using his unique style of trumpet playing to become famous. Things become complicated when Andy crosses path with his childhood friend, Glory Martinez. Glory has a dream of her own of becoming an Olympic softball pitcher. Things are further complicated when Andy meets a mysterious man in black who offers Andy fame in fortune for free. But what's the cost of free?
There are a lot of books out there on the market. There are good books, there are bad books. Sometimes there are books that stand out as great. Under the Baseball Moon by. John H. Ritter is one of those stand out books. Under the Baseball Moon is a book about a teenage boy named Andy. Andy has dreams of using his unique style of trumpet playing to become famous. Everything is going great until a mysterious man in black comes to town offering Andy fame and fortune. This book is exceptionally well written and easy to follow. There are many dynamic characters with their own personality. This combined with the authors witty remarks makes an awesome duo. What I liked most about this book is captivating. In many sports books you lose interest due to predictability and cliche endings. Although the overall book was fantastic, I felt that the ending was rushed and not really complete. I would suggest the author expound more on the ending to make it feel more complete. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun read.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Starkville, Mississippi USA
There are a lot of books out there on the market. There are good books, there are bad books. Sometimes there are books that stand out as great. Under the Baseball Moon by. John H. Ritter is one of those stand out books. Under the Baseball Moon is a book about a teenage boy named Andy. Andy has dreams of using his unique style of trumpet playing to become famous. Everything is going great until a mysterious man in black comes to town offering Andy fame and fortune. This book is exceptionally well written and easy to follow. There are many dynamic characters with their own personality. This combined with the authors witty remarks makes an awesome duo. What I liked most about this book is captivating. In many sports books you lose interest due to predictability and cliche endings. Although the overall book was fantastic, I felt that the ending was rushed and not really complete. I would suggest the author expound more on the ending to make it feel more complete. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun read.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Starkville, Mississippi USA
Girl in Development by Jordan Roter
Girl in Development is a fun novel about Samantha Rose, a bookish brunette who gets sent to LA for an internship with the famous Authentic Pictures production company. Staying with her snobby, stylish cousin Kate doesn’t seem like a whole lot of fun for Sam, who would rather stay at home safely on the east coast, reading classic novels and waiting for her dream guy to stumble across her path. But things are done differently in sunny LA and she is soon thrown into a whirlwind of trying to please her new boss, decide which boys are lying and which are sincere, and match her old black vintage clothes with the hottest new looks borrowed from Kate’s closet. Even with her killer schedule, she still manages to have a social life, and at times even bumps into—or befriends—a celebrity or two. Along the way, her true character is tested and she discovers that sometimes you need to step out of your comfort zone to realize who you really are.
Compared to other books of this genre I’ve read, this one was very good. I liked the main characters and the author was very knowledgeable. It seems like Jordan Roter has had a lot of experience in “the Industry” and it shows through her writing; she knows how companies like Authentic Pictures run and everything seems very believable, unlike some teen books. I really enjoyed reading about Sam’s experiences and the love story (stories!) were fun and never dull. I would recommend this book to girls 14-17 as an easy, amusing read. Put on your designer shades, relax, and read Girl in Development by Jordan Roter.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Edina, Minnesota USA
Compared to other books of this genre I’ve read, this one was very good. I liked the main characters and the author was very knowledgeable. It seems like Jordan Roter has had a lot of experience in “the Industry” and it shows through her writing; she knows how companies like Authentic Pictures run and everything seems very believable, unlike some teen books. I really enjoyed reading about Sam’s experiences and the love story (stories!) were fun and never dull. I would recommend this book to girls 14-17 as an easy, amusing read. Put on your designer shades, relax, and read Girl in Development by Jordan Roter.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Edina, Minnesota USA
Monterey Shorts
This collection of wacky stories is written by authors from the Monterey area, and take place in Monterey, although in varying time periods, from ghostly tales of years past to imaginations of the Jetsons-like future. My favorite was the The Lizard Catcher, by Lele Dahle. It was a suspenseful story about what happens to a group of children living in a farming community when Juanita, the daughter of a migrant worker, joins their group of friends. You won’t know what is going to happen until the surprising and sad ending. Monte-Ray Gunn, by Byron Merrit, (grandson of Frank Herbert, who wrote the famous science-fiction novel entitled Dune) was also interesting. It is a futuristic crime story that captured my attention with its odd set of characters. If you like science fiction, this short story is funny and clever.
Most of the stories were pretty good, but I found some to be a little dull and hard to get through. If you have ever visited or lived on the Monterey Peninsula, you might connect more with these stories than I did. However, for someone who has never been there, these stories will give you an idea of the place. The idea of collecting a book of shorts around the idea of a place is interesting, and it works well with this novel. Compared to other collections of short stories I’ve read, this one is not my favorite, but is worth a read even if only for a few of the stories.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Edina, Minnesota USA
Most of the stories were pretty good, but I found some to be a little dull and hard to get through. If you have ever visited or lived on the Monterey Peninsula, you might connect more with these stories than I did. However, for someone who has never been there, these stories will give you an idea of the place. The idea of collecting a book of shorts around the idea of a place is interesting, and it works well with this novel. Compared to other collections of short stories I’ve read, this one is not my favorite, but is worth a read even if only for a few of the stories.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Edina, Minnesota USA
Out of Order by Betty Hicks
The book is about a family that is slowly falling apart and changing. The parents have divorced leaving the children "In the Pits." Now their mother has remarried to a man who her children don't like. If there is any up-side they love their new step-brother. He's funny, and likes doing anything and everything they like. Though, everywhere they go something goes wrong. Everything really is "Out of Order."
The book is enjoyable. Though, it is very difficult to follow. The storyline is constantly jumping from one character to the next. Also, from format to format. First it's Vy in story format, then it's "Mudboy" in Diary format. So if you want to read this book be prepared for a "shake-up"
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania United States
The book is enjoyable. Though, it is very difficult to follow. The storyline is constantly jumping from one character to the next. Also, from format to format. First it's Vy in story format, then it's "Mudboy" in Diary format. So if you want to read this book be prepared for a "shake-up"
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania United States
My Childhood Under Fire by Nadja Halilbegovic
My Childhood Under Fire is the actual diary of Nadja Halilbegovic. It chronicles her life from the age of
12 until the age of 16. The diary begins shortly before her thirteenth birthday - and shortly after the war in Sarajevo began.
As she and her family tried to live one day at a time, Nadja turned to her diary for comfort. Some days were better than others, and these she details happily. The sad days are here as well, as she dealt with the loss of loved ones and strangers alike.
Nadja, of course, hoped that her family would be safe for the duration of the war. She began speaking on radio programs, reading her poetry and talking about peace. With occasional poignant paragraphs, Nadja considers ways to fix the political situation. Even after she is hit with schrapnel and has to endure a long healing process, she never loses hope.
Eventually, at the age of 16, she is allowed a permit to leave the country. That in itself is another perilous journey. Her mother accompanied her but had to stay behind. Nadja came to America, where she now has a new life and new opportunities. Still speaking and writing about peace, it is obvious that she never will forget where she came from nor what she went through.
Review: The writing is very honest and straightforward. The text of the diary is presented as originally written, simply translated into English. Sometimes, portions of entries are reproduced so readers can see her handwriting - plus a doodle here and there.
Interjected throughout the book are paragraphs entitled "Looking Back," with the now-adult Nadja remarking on what she had written and what she had experienced.
Rating on a scale of 1 - 10: 7
Reviewer: Little Willow
From: California
12 until the age of 16. The diary begins shortly before her thirteenth birthday - and shortly after the war in Sarajevo began.
As she and her family tried to live one day at a time, Nadja turned to her diary for comfort. Some days were better than others, and these she details happily. The sad days are here as well, as she dealt with the loss of loved ones and strangers alike.
Nadja, of course, hoped that her family would be safe for the duration of the war. She began speaking on radio programs, reading her poetry and talking about peace. With occasional poignant paragraphs, Nadja considers ways to fix the political situation. Even after she is hit with schrapnel and has to endure a long healing process, she never loses hope.
Eventually, at the age of 16, she is allowed a permit to leave the country. That in itself is another perilous journey. Her mother accompanied her but had to stay behind. Nadja came to America, where she now has a new life and new opportunities. Still speaking and writing about peace, it is obvious that she never will forget where she came from nor what she went through.
Review: The writing is very honest and straightforward. The text of the diary is presented as originally written, simply translated into English. Sometimes, portions of entries are reproduced so readers can see her handwriting - plus a doodle here and there.
Interjected throughout the book are paragraphs entitled "Looking Back," with the now-adult Nadja remarking on what she had written and what she had experienced.
Rating on a scale of 1 - 10: 7
Reviewer: Little Willow
From: California
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Wizards of Hastin by P. Ashar
This is a collection of folk tales and fables from the Indus Valley. It follows the rivalry of two sides of a warring family. Five of the warriors are known as the Prols, and they posess great talents that help them in the fight against the Telhoths. The Telhoths are the cousins of the Prols, and are made up of the 100 sons of Wardoria, the King, Lohas, and his foster child, Karna. The story goes like this. The Prols are the masters of half the kingdom. Then, the powerhungery Telhoths trick the Prols into a fixed game of dice which causes the Prols to go into hidding for many years. When the Prols finally come back, they find that the Telhoths have gone mad with power, and refuse to relinquish the kingdom! A great war ensues, and the fate of the kingdom is in the great warriors and their "Weapons" of great power. The Prols are outnumbered by the Telhoths, but have gathered many allies for the great battle. Who will win this clash of great powers in the Indus Valley? Read this book and find out!
I really liked this book, but I'm not sure it would be for everybody. I have a great love for Greek and Roman mythology, and this book mirrors these myths, so I found the paragraph long "stories" very entertaining. I say "stories" because each paragraph is like an individual, drawn out "fact" about the bigger story of the battle between the Prols and Telhoths. The storyline gets kind of confusing in the beginning because it introduces a new character almost every paragraph, some of which never show up again. Sometimes the vagueness of this book is also a problem, as in, and I quote, "So he discharged the Serpent weapon at Trilock. He aimed the weapon at the head of Trilock. If successful it would cut off Trilock's head." It does not go into any more detail about the "Serpent Weapon". It has about 10 "most powerful weapons" in the book. I think the Indus people had a problem with adjectives, because not all of those weapons can be the most powerful, or the best, or the most almighty. Overall this is a great collection of myths from the Indus Valley with a few minor problems. Otherwise I found that this book was extremely well written(retold) and there is, in fact, a chart at the beggining of the book that highlights most of the main characters.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambesburg, Pennsylvania United States of America
I really liked this book, but I'm not sure it would be for everybody. I have a great love for Greek and Roman mythology, and this book mirrors these myths, so I found the paragraph long "stories" very entertaining. I say "stories" because each paragraph is like an individual, drawn out "fact" about the bigger story of the battle between the Prols and Telhoths. The storyline gets kind of confusing in the beginning because it introduces a new character almost every paragraph, some of which never show up again. Sometimes the vagueness of this book is also a problem, as in, and I quote, "So he discharged the Serpent weapon at Trilock. He aimed the weapon at the head of Trilock. If successful it would cut off Trilock's head." It does not go into any more detail about the "Serpent Weapon". It has about 10 "most powerful weapons" in the book. I think the Indus people had a problem with adjectives, because not all of those weapons can be the most powerful, or the best, or the most almighty. Overall this is a great collection of myths from the Indus Valley with a few minor problems. Otherwise I found that this book was extremely well written(retold) and there is, in fact, a chart at the beggining of the book that highlights most of the main characters.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambesburg, Pennsylvania United States of America
The Girls by Lori Lansens
"The Girls," is a collection of stories about the lives and times of two conjoined twins. These stories are not in chronological order. They are memories of their relationships, their travels, their birth, and many other significant and not-so-significant moments of their lives. At many points in the story, the book is treated like a diary in which the sisters explain what is going on in their lives at the time the book being written. "The Girls," as they are known in their small Canadian town have been looked after by Aunt Lovey and Uncle Stash for most of their lives. They are soon to be the oldest surviving craniopagus (conjoined at the head) twins, and Rose is planning on writing a book of their memoirs. Ruby, her sister, is writing several chapters herself, as it is her life too. The point of view switches from one twin to the other, and the blanks that each sister leaves out is, in most cases, explained by the other.
Overall, it was an extremely enjoyable book. I chose it because it seemed like an interesting idea- I had never before read anything in the perspective of conjoined twins. While this wasn't what I would call a "pageturner" (it took me about two weeks to read, as I had exams at the same time), it is extremely well-written. Lansens has the unique ability to create two completely different characters and weave their stories so well that it is not difficult to believe that these two individual women have spent every waking moment of their lives connected. During some points in Rose's recollections, she tends to go a bit too deep into detail and description at the cost of plot stability, but I interpreted this more as a reflection of Rose and her writing style. I was also able to relate very well to Rose and somewhat to Ruby, despite the extreme differences in our situations. It was a fascinating experience to be able to "meet" these to characters and get to know them, and then to read about what they thought of each other and what happened in their everyday lives that they chose to relate to the reader (or not). "The Girls," is a very educational book- I learned a lot about life and relationships, not to mention the world and customs of other people. After the collection of stories, the ending is very satifying. I felt that in the ending, Lansens captured a true moment of real lives.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 18
Reviewer City, State and Country: Des Plaines, IL USA
Overall, it was an extremely enjoyable book. I chose it because it seemed like an interesting idea- I had never before read anything in the perspective of conjoined twins. While this wasn't what I would call a "pageturner" (it took me about two weeks to read, as I had exams at the same time), it is extremely well-written. Lansens has the unique ability to create two completely different characters and weave their stories so well that it is not difficult to believe that these two individual women have spent every waking moment of their lives connected. During some points in Rose's recollections, she tends to go a bit too deep into detail and description at the cost of plot stability, but I interpreted this more as a reflection of Rose and her writing style. I was also able to relate very well to Rose and somewhat to Ruby, despite the extreme differences in our situations. It was a fascinating experience to be able to "meet" these to characters and get to know them, and then to read about what they thought of each other and what happened in their everyday lives that they chose to relate to the reader (or not). "The Girls," is a very educational book- I learned a lot about life and relationships, not to mention the world and customs of other people. After the collection of stories, the ending is very satifying. I felt that in the ending, Lansens captured a true moment of real lives.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 18
Reviewer City, State and Country: Des Plaines, IL USA
Love Curse of the Rumbaughs by Jack Gantos
Ivy was born with the only kind of love she ever wanted, a mother's love. She doesn't know who her father is and has no desire to find out (though Ivy's mother reveals the truth on her sixteenth birthday). But Ivy's mother does let slip that Ivy has inherited the love curse. The curse entails obsessive love of a mother accompanied by constant worry that she will die. Ivy also develops an unusual hobby: taxidermy. She is aided with this pastime by her quirky neighbors, the Rumbaugh twins, who run the pharmacy across the street. The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs chronicles Ivy's battle between overcoming the curse and letting it consume her, and uncovering the secrets of the Rumbaugh twins.
The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs was a bizarre and unusual book. The novel presented different viewpoints on free will, love, and the concept of "superior genetics" which I found interesting. But the book took the taxidermy hobby and obsessive love of a mother a bit too far. Also, the time skipped around, which I found confusing. Overall the book peaked my curiosity but was somewhat morbid; it was interesting but not an attention grabber for me. I would recommend this book be read only by young adults or older due to some of the content.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Erlanger, Kentucky USA
The Love Curse of the Rumbaughs was a bizarre and unusual book. The novel presented different viewpoints on free will, love, and the concept of "superior genetics" which I found interesting. But the book took the taxidermy hobby and obsessive love of a mother a bit too far. Also, the time skipped around, which I found confusing. Overall the book peaked my curiosity but was somewhat morbid; it was interesting but not an attention grabber for me. I would recommend this book be read only by young adults or older due to some of the content.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Erlanger, Kentucky USA
Monday, May 29, 2006
The Callahan Cousins: Summer Begins by Elizabeth Doyle Carey
The Callahan Cousins: Summer BeginsAuthor: Elizabeth Doyle CareyISBN: 0316736902 Summary: At first, it would seem that The Callahan Cousins couldn't be more different if they tried. Kind, worrisome Kate loves baking. Phoebe is a perfectionist who likes order, cleanliness, and bohemian fashion. Neeve has lived all over the world and has a sophisticated flair. Hillary is still reeling from her parents splitting up and thinks up ways to rebuild her family. When these four get together for a parent-free summer at their grandmother's house, they bond almost immediately. They are twelve years old and determined to take over the world - or, at least, ride their bicycles around Gull Island and stir up an old family secret or two!
This is a good, clean story, just right for a breezy summer read. The book is suitable for ages 8 and up. Each reader will find a character to relate to, as each cousin has a distinct style, appearance, and main interest. Though the girls do engage in a little feud with another family on the island, their intentions are well-meant; they attempt to plant a flag in an attempt to mimic something their fathers did twenty years early. This summer does not only give each girl a self of independence, but one of togetherness, of family.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
This is a good, clean story, just right for a breezy summer read. The book is suitable for ages 8 and up. Each reader will find a character to relate to, as each cousin has a distinct style, appearance, and main interest. Though the girls do engage in a little feud with another family on the island, their intentions are well-meant; they attempt to plant a flag in an attempt to mimic something their fathers did twenty years early. This summer does not only give each girl a self of independence, but one of togetherness, of family.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Pish Posh by Ellen Potter
Pish Posh is the place to be in New York City. Superstars and wannabes dine at the aptly named restaurant, craving attention and enjoying the fabulous food. Each person secretly hopes that he or she will not be deemed the next Nobody, and everyone there fears the person who would deliver that verdict: an eleven year old little girl. Clara Frankofile, daughter of the Pish Posh owners and chef, wears a black dress everyday (she has hundreds of the same outfit) and looks down on people through her tinted sunglasses. What she says goes. An actress who walked in as the It Girl may be declared a Nobody before she is done with her meal.
Though I like Ellen Potter's Olivia Kidney series, I found myself wanting more from Pish Posh than I ultimately got. It begins as a sarcastic take on society and celebrity, which I liked, but the focus changed not once but twice before the story was through. Based on the jacket summary, I thought I was in for a cross between the book So Yesterday by Scott Westerfeld and the film To Catch a Thief, as Clara befriends a girl barely older than her who is a jewel thief. It then became a story about past lives, in a way. I won't spoil the ending, but I will say it fell a little short of my expectations. Still, Potter delivers descriptive and funny writing, and I'll certainly continue to pick up her novels.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 23
Though I like Ellen Potter's Olivia Kidney series, I found myself wanting more from Pish Posh than I ultimately got. It begins as a sarcastic take on society and celebrity, which I liked, but the focus changed not once but twice before the story was through. Based on the jacket summary, I thought I was in for a cross between the book So Yesterday by Scott Westerfeld and the film To Catch a Thief, as Clara befriends a girl barely older than her who is a jewel thief. It then became a story about past lives, in a way. I won't spoil the ending, but I will say it fell a little short of my expectations. Still, Potter delivers descriptive and funny writing, and I'll certainly continue to pick up her novels.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 23
Jack's Knife by Beverly Wood and Chris Wood
Jackson Kyle is your typical 14-year-old boy. His best friend is Al McMann, a 90-year-old former Alaskan marshal. After a baseball game, a mysterious dog turns up and takes one of the baseballs. When Jack chases the dog down the street, she leads him into a bush and through a fence, but he doesn't just turn up on the other side of the fence. He finds himself in Juneau, Alaska in the 1930's. Confused, Jack tells Captain Harper, a local captain of a ship, everything that has happened. Captain Harper tells Jack about another boy who was brought to Juneau by this dog. He was only returned home when he did exactly what the dog wanted him to do. Now, to return to his own time, he must correct an error in time and save a life from jail.
I thought that Jack's Knife, by Beverly Wood and Chris Wood, was a good book. The fact that a few of the characters in the book were based off of real people was really interesting. Every character's personality changed throughout the plot of the story. The best quality of the book was that one event led to another. The book stayed to the story and didn't skip around much. I reccommend this book to any dog-lovers and anyone who loves books that foreshadow alot.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania United States
I thought that Jack's Knife, by Beverly Wood and Chris Wood, was a good book. The fact that a few of the characters in the book were based off of real people was really interesting. Every character's personality changed throughout the plot of the story. The best quality of the book was that one event led to another. The book stayed to the story and didn't skip around much. I reccommend this book to any dog-lovers and anyone who loves books that foreshadow alot.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania United States
Inside the Mind of Gideon Rayburn by Sarah Miller
Gideon Rayburn has a twist of fate when he mananges to secure a position in a fancy prep school. From day one, his life is completely changed. His new roommates, Cullen and Nicholas, influence him to do drugs, drink, and even make a bet for him to lose his virginity. With so many girls around, Gideon does not know how to act around them or who he really likes. Through the course of his first term of boarding school, he learns a lot about his personality and what is really important in relationships.
What is different about this book is that it is told through the voice of a girl who is "inside his mind". She is one of the girls Gideon comes face to face with at his prep school, and the thrill of reading this is to find out the identity of the girl. That was the main reason why I finished this book. Gideon was a cute character, but I couldn't get into this story. Maybe I would have liked it better being told through a girl's perspective, but that would defeat the purpose of the story. It was nice reading about what guys think, but I don't think this was the best book. Maybe I will like Miller's next novel more.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 19
Reviewer City, State and Country: philadelphia, pa USA
What is different about this book is that it is told through the voice of a girl who is "inside his mind". She is one of the girls Gideon comes face to face with at his prep school, and the thrill of reading this is to find out the identity of the girl. That was the main reason why I finished this book. Gideon was a cute character, but I couldn't get into this story. Maybe I would have liked it better being told through a girl's perspective, but that would defeat the purpose of the story. It was nice reading about what guys think, but I don't think this was the best book. Maybe I will like Miller's next novel more.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 19
Reviewer City, State and Country: philadelphia, pa USA
Monday, May 22, 2006
Fingers by William Sleator
Humphrey hadn't been doing to well in his last concerts. Now that he is a big man, and not a little boy, people don't want to see him play anymore. When he was younger, he played great for his age, and people thought he was so cute. Now, his music isn't played like a real musician, and he is no longer cute. Bridget, Humphrey's stepmom and Sam's mom, comes up with a great idea to make it seem like Humphrey created music from the ghost of a famous dead composer. The plan works out great, and Humphrey is once again famous. Until, all of a sudden, it seems like Humphrey is actually composing the music from the dead musician. Will all the strange events like an old man knowing he exact notes that was changed by Humphreys dad, Luke, be coincidence? Or is it something out of the supernatural?
This was a really eerie book. It made you think and wonder what could have caused the coincidences in the story. The author kept me wanting to know what happens, and he kept me bound to the book. I always wondered what would eventually happen at the end. The ending was very good, and made me say "o my gosh" over and over to my self. The author wrote the bok with just the right amount of details, so I wasn't bored at all while reading.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Lutherville, Maryland United States of America
This was a really eerie book. It made you think and wonder what could have caused the coincidences in the story. The author kept me wanting to know what happens, and he kept me bound to the book. I always wondered what would eventually happen at the end. The ending was very good, and made me say "o my gosh" over and over to my self. The author wrote the bok with just the right amount of details, so I wasn't bored at all while reading.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Lutherville, Maryland United States of America
Archer's Quest by Linda Sue Park
Chu-mong fell off his tiger and apparently lands in Kevin’s room. Chu-mung tells Kevin call him Koh, Chu-mong the skillful archer but, Kevin insists on calling him Archie or Archer. Archie follows Kevin to the computer which Archie calls a magic box and finds two facts, one he already knows, the other one was that Archie changed his name, when he was king in the time of 55 B.C.. Kevin decides that they would go to the history museum. Archie couldn’t go in the museum because of his bow and arrows. Once, Kevin entered the Korean section of the museum, he realizes that all the things they had were way too recent. It only went as far back as the 1800’s. Kevin decides to talk to Mr. Lee and learns that Archie brought the chopsticks over to Korea from China. Since, Chu-mung’s time was Mr. Lee’s favorite time in history, Kevin knew that he would go on and on about useless information that Kevin didn’t need to know. So, Kevin cuts Mr. Lee short and ran out the door to the awaiting Archie. Kevin has the idea to go to the zoo to see what Archie would do if he sees a tiger. When they go to the zoo, Archie disappears and Kevin finds him inside the tiger cage, petting the tiger. Then Archie climbs out. While going to find another tiger that is metal, they are followed by Mr. Lee. Chu-mung gets on the tiger, Mr. Lee grabs him to take him back to the museum, unsuccessfully. Meanwhile, Kevin figures out that it’s the year of the dirt now and it was they year of metal when Chu-mung lived, Kevin decides to spreads dirt all over the tiger and Chu-mung. Chu-mung disappears.
At first the book, Archer’s Quest was not very interesting however, as I read on it caught my attention. Although I found this book to be an easy read. The book was exciting because, I love books where kids solve the mysteries and in this book Kevin figures out how to get Archie back to his time. At least that is what I think happens. The author kind of leaves you guessing as to what really happens. This book was very unpredictable! The ending was shocking, I thought that Kevin was going to wake up from a dream! I learned that zoos were once called the garden of intelligence. But, I didn’t really learn anything else. I felt as if this book should have been written for lower than the average fifth grade reading level. I was able to finish this book in just one day. Nothing stood out in the author’s writing style. I have not read anything else by this author but, I think that I would love any of her books, comparing them to this book. I think the author could have improved this story by making the first chapter catch your attention. The author could have also improved this book by explaining what happened to Archie. Can Kevin figure out how to get Archie back to his time or not? Was Archie sent to another time in history, not his time? Is Kevin Dreaming?
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 10
Reviewer City, State and Country: Channahon, IL U.S.A.
At first the book, Archer’s Quest was not very interesting however, as I read on it caught my attention. Although I found this book to be an easy read. The book was exciting because, I love books where kids solve the mysteries and in this book Kevin figures out how to get Archie back to his time. At least that is what I think happens. The author kind of leaves you guessing as to what really happens. This book was very unpredictable! The ending was shocking, I thought that Kevin was going to wake up from a dream! I learned that zoos were once called the garden of intelligence. But, I didn’t really learn anything else. I felt as if this book should have been written for lower than the average fifth grade reading level. I was able to finish this book in just one day. Nothing stood out in the author’s writing style. I have not read anything else by this author but, I think that I would love any of her books, comparing them to this book. I think the author could have improved this story by making the first chapter catch your attention. The author could have also improved this book by explaining what happened to Archie. Can Kevin figure out how to get Archie back to his time or not? Was Archie sent to another time in history, not his time? Is Kevin Dreaming?
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 10
Reviewer City, State and Country: Channahon, IL U.S.A.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
King Dork by Frank Portman
King Dork is the story of a sophomore boy named Tom, who is your average, unexpected protagonist. He is a loser. He gets beat up in school, chicks aren’t into him (well not at first anyway), his home-life is messy, he loves and truly appreciates Rock and Roll, and has only one friend like figure. Yet he still manages to view the world through a cynical, witty, and slightly askew eye. Throughout the book he yearns to sew the mystery of his father’s death into his present, by reading his father’s old books and tracking down people his father once knew. He struggles with ever bewildering females and the poor, inane educational structure of AP classes. He is constantly trying to avoid the brainwashed normalcy of the Catcher cult, and humor his hippie-wannabe mother and “cool” new stepfather. All this while trying to play one song in unison with his band.
There are many words in the English language but only one that I can think of to describe this book, amazing. At least it was for me and the type of kids who want to be Bob Dylan, and thinks that the Velvet Underground was the best thing to come out of the Factory. It’s definitely a book for the sardonic Rock and Roller of the world, as it is chocked full of witty, sarcastic, tones and 60s pop culture references. The great thing about this book is that it takes everything you’ve ever thought about cool, redefines it, and makes it much, much better. When reading the book, you can see a little part of your life mirrored in one of the characters, whether it is Tom, his best friend, his illicit lovers, or his inept parental units. It is not a particularly good choice for readers who are not comfortable with sexual innuendo, but it is a great choice if Rock and Roll, bad movies, and uncertainty make up the bulk of your life.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Erlanger, Kentucky USA
There are many words in the English language but only one that I can think of to describe this book, amazing. At least it was for me and the type of kids who want to be Bob Dylan, and thinks that the Velvet Underground was the best thing to come out of the Factory. It’s definitely a book for the sardonic Rock and Roller of the world, as it is chocked full of witty, sarcastic, tones and 60s pop culture references. The great thing about this book is that it takes everything you’ve ever thought about cool, redefines it, and makes it much, much better. When reading the book, you can see a little part of your life mirrored in one of the characters, whether it is Tom, his best friend, his illicit lovers, or his inept parental units. It is not a particularly good choice for readers who are not comfortable with sexual innuendo, but it is a great choice if Rock and Roll, bad movies, and uncertainty make up the bulk of your life.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Erlanger, Kentucky USA
Monday, May 15, 2006
George Washington; First in War, First in Peace by James A. Crutchfield
The book gives a concise narrative of the life of George Washington, from birth until death. It makes every attempt to debunk popular myths about our nation's first president, and gives as much historical information as possible without making the book overly pedantic.
All and all, the book was a pleasant read. Imagine my surprise upon finding a book that actually had historical subsistence and wasn’t overly dense. The Flesch-Kincaid level, for the passage I randomly picked, pegged at 12.0, but I find that hard to believe. If I had read this book as a senior, heads would have rolled. Fine read, yes; reflective of grade level, no. The book, I would think, could be easily approachable for middle school, granted that it’s not a “throw-me-into-the-deep-end” read, but even then, it may be achievable for some. I have few real complaints about the book. The biggest that I have is the lack of maps. Personally, I come from upstate New York and have resided in Pittsburgh (you’ll see what I mean when they start hashing out Pittsburgh’s three different rivers during the Fort Duquesne/Fort Pitt skirmish. Even I had to pay attention to remember which river was which), so I was quite familiar with the areas being discussed throughout the book. Someone, especially a middle schooler, from anywhere else would have a hard time keeping geographical track of things, and unless they’re a devotee of history, reading about events that are 200+ years old while trying to keep track of then-General Washington’s movements is not conducive to gaining someone’s interest. Next, while the book tries to not put Washington on a pedestal, like most do, it still has the aura of it. There are a few attempts in the book to show Washington’s “human” nature, but even then, these descriptions are quickly followed by “but then he got right up and persevered!”-ims. Absolutely nothing wrong with that, but come now. Other than that, like I said, the book was quite readable and not historically dense. I give the book a 7 because, frankly, I don’t think I’d read it again, nor would I recommend it to anyone. If someone came up to me and specifically said: “I need a book that details all of Washington’s life briefly, and details major events in an easy-to-read format,” only then would I mention this book. This shouldn’t deter you from considering it. If you have a budding interest in the Revolutionary War period, this book will give you solid footing in the names, events, treaties, and nuances of the time. If you already know a lot about the Revolutionary War, you could safely pass the book up for something more investigative. In brief: good beginner book, good book to get someone interested in the time period, good book to hack through together as a class, perhaps; but hardly fulfilling for someone that has Revolutionary War knowledge and a decent grasp of the diplomacy of that era.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 18
Reviewer City, State and Country: Rochester, New York United States
All and all, the book was a pleasant read. Imagine my surprise upon finding a book that actually had historical subsistence and wasn’t overly dense. The Flesch-Kincaid level, for the passage I randomly picked, pegged at 12.0, but I find that hard to believe. If I had read this book as a senior, heads would have rolled. Fine read, yes; reflective of grade level, no. The book, I would think, could be easily approachable for middle school, granted that it’s not a “throw-me-into-the-deep-end” read, but even then, it may be achievable for some. I have few real complaints about the book. The biggest that I have is the lack of maps. Personally, I come from upstate New York and have resided in Pittsburgh (you’ll see what I mean when they start hashing out Pittsburgh’s three different rivers during the Fort Duquesne/Fort Pitt skirmish. Even I had to pay attention to remember which river was which), so I was quite familiar with the areas being discussed throughout the book. Someone, especially a middle schooler, from anywhere else would have a hard time keeping geographical track of things, and unless they’re a devotee of history, reading about events that are 200+ years old while trying to keep track of then-General Washington’s movements is not conducive to gaining someone’s interest. Next, while the book tries to not put Washington on a pedestal, like most do, it still has the aura of it. There are a few attempts in the book to show Washington’s “human” nature, but even then, these descriptions are quickly followed by “but then he got right up and persevered!”-ims. Absolutely nothing wrong with that, but come now. Other than that, like I said, the book was quite readable and not historically dense. I give the book a 7 because, frankly, I don’t think I’d read it again, nor would I recommend it to anyone. If someone came up to me and specifically said: “I need a book that details all of Washington’s life briefly, and details major events in an easy-to-read format,” only then would I mention this book. This shouldn’t deter you from considering it. If you have a budding interest in the Revolutionary War period, this book will give you solid footing in the names, events, treaties, and nuances of the time. If you already know a lot about the Revolutionary War, you could safely pass the book up for something more investigative. In brief: good beginner book, good book to get someone interested in the time period, good book to hack through together as a class, perhaps; but hardly fulfilling for someone that has Revolutionary War knowledge and a decent grasp of the diplomacy of that era.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 18
Reviewer City, State and Country: Rochester, New York United States
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