This was a book with twists and turns. The author gave you little pieces of the puzzle, and then I had to figure the rest out. There were four different main charcters, two in one year and the other two in another. In the end you figured out why they were all in the story.
The title made me want to immidately read it and figure out what it was about about. It made me curious to read the book and figure it out. I loved the ending, it was shocking and you didn't suspect one bit, plus the author made you want more. The twists and turns. I could never read one chapter and not stop. I had to read the next so I could go to bed. The author's style. It was surprise after surprise. The author never gave them away one after one, its like she understood what readers liked ina mystery. It was like a jigsaw puzzle. Since there were four different people,and two different years. I wondered why they had two different years and why not just one, but in the end I answered my own questions. I loved how the author made me have NO questions in the end. I had TONS of questions throughout the book, but not in the end.
Content: There are cusswords and other inapproite words for children, inless they are a teen and are allowed to read books with cussing in it and they've asked their parents.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Fort Wanye, Indiana U.S.A
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Lizard People by Charlie Price
Ben thought his junior year of high school couldn’t get any worse. After his mother suffered another mental breakdown, he was scared of the road ahead, even though she was locked up in an institution for three days. Her mental health had declined ever since Ben’s dad had abandoned them. In the waiting room of the hospital, Ben met an older boy named Marco whose mom was also in the institution. Ben is intrigued by Marco because he tells incredible stories about time travel. Ben sets out to discover where Marco’s been, and where the rest of Marco’s family is. Ben thought he had a normal life for a boy with a mentally ill mother, but then he realized the total opposite was true.
The book, Lizard People, was fantastically written and was definitely a page turner. It was realistic, but there were unexpected events readers would not expect. From the descriptions of Marco’s stories, to the breakdowns of Ben’s mom, Charlie Price added every necessary detail to each chapter. I recommend this book to anyone who likes stories dealing with time travel, or prefers books about people with mental illness. My favorite character in the book was Z, Ben’s best friend’s sister, because she was highly intelligent and witty in every way, plus she was sweet and innocent. I loved the specific personalities that each character owned, and the way Charlie Price described them.
Content: It has some frightening situations. Some alchohol and street drugs.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Osseo, Wisconsin United States
The book, Lizard People, was fantastically written and was definitely a page turner. It was realistic, but there were unexpected events readers would not expect. From the descriptions of Marco’s stories, to the breakdowns of Ben’s mom, Charlie Price added every necessary detail to each chapter. I recommend this book to anyone who likes stories dealing with time travel, or prefers books about people with mental illness. My favorite character in the book was Z, Ben’s best friend’s sister, because she was highly intelligent and witty in every way, plus she was sweet and innocent. I loved the specific personalities that each character owned, and the way Charlie Price described them.
Content: It has some frightening situations. Some alchohol and street drugs.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Osseo, Wisconsin United States
Icecore: A Carl Hobbes Thriller by Matt Whyman
17 year old British hacker Carl Hobbes hacked in to Fort Knox just to prove that it could be done. The problem is the American government found out he did it. So they gave him a choice: tell them how he did it, or go to jail for a very long time. Being only 17, he chose to tell them everything they want to know. They take him to the Guantanimo Bay of the Arctic for questioning. There, he meets Beth, the girl who got him into this mess in the first place. He answers all the American's questions, but they think he's not being entirely truthful. Then, McCoy, one of the prisoners, breaks free and tries to escape. Carl and Beth are let out to try and stop him, so they head to communications tower to send out a mayday. McCoy is there, and the tower is blown up by a homemade vodka-bomb. Before the tower explodes, Beth and Carl escape by jumping out one of the tower's windows, and suffer no more than a few cuts and bruises. Then, they work on stopping a plane from landing. When that plan fails, they hop on a couple of snowmobiles and escape.
This book was extremely good. My Favorite character was Beth, with Carl pulling a close second. I really liked the ending, because, in my opinion, two pretty innocent people got away. Compared to other adventure novels I've read, this was probably one of the best. This book taught me that people aren't always what they seem. The vocabulary used in this book was appropriate for the age group. This author has a very good writing style, and he supplied plenty of detail, but not too much to make it disgusting or gruesome. I don't think that the author could have improved this story.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Highland, MI USA
This book was extremely good. My Favorite character was Beth, with Carl pulling a close second. I really liked the ending, because, in my opinion, two pretty innocent people got away. Compared to other adventure novels I've read, this was probably one of the best. This book taught me that people aren't always what they seem. The vocabulary used in this book was appropriate for the age group. This author has a very good writing style, and he supplied plenty of detail, but not too much to make it disgusting or gruesome. I don't think that the author could have improved this story.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Highland, MI USA
Alfed Kropp: The Seal of Solomon by Rick Yancey
The book started with Alfred Kropp coming home from school to his foster home and learning that he’s about to inherit four hundred million dollars. He then learns that his foster parents are planning to adopt him so he decides to run away. Unfortunately for him, he is kidnapped by Mike, an ex-agent of OIPEP. OIPEP rescues Alfred from Mike. Alfred joins OIPEP’s special team to retrieve two very important stolen artifacts. Alfred’s team fails to get the artifacts because Mike gets to them first. Alfred goes to interrogate Mike’s mom but she is away on a cruise. Alfred has two days to find the missing artifact before the world is doomed. Alfred tracks down Mike and recovers the vessel. Then Alfred fights the demon and is able to get the “seal of Solomon” ring. The demon tempts Alfred with popularity, a family of his own, and a girlfriend but Alfred turned them down and sent the demons back into the vessel. OIPEP wants the seal back but Alfred is going to keep it.
I thought this book was awesome. The plot was exciting and fast moving. A true page turner, with a little humor thrown in on the side. It reminded me a lot of the Alex Rider series. Both books have a teenage boy who has lost his parents and is recruited to be a secret agent. This book is a little different because this talks about the bible more and has demons. Alfred Kropp is also a little older and has taken some Driver’s Ed classes so he can drive. I first thought he was kind of a nerd but after I read more of the book my opinion changed very quickly. I’m looking forward to the sequel.
Content: Some of the demon encounters were gory. When Alfred got blisters and maggots on his skin it was gross but added to the story.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Hamilton, OH USA
I thought this book was awesome. The plot was exciting and fast moving. A true page turner, with a little humor thrown in on the side. It reminded me a lot of the Alex Rider series. Both books have a teenage boy who has lost his parents and is recruited to be a secret agent. This book is a little different because this talks about the bible more and has demons. Alfred Kropp is also a little older and has taken some Driver’s Ed classes so he can drive. I first thought he was kind of a nerd but after I read more of the book my opinion changed very quickly. I’m looking forward to the sequel.
Content: Some of the demon encounters were gory. When Alfred got blisters and maggots on his skin it was gross but added to the story.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Hamilton, OH USA
Captives by Tom Pow
16-year old Martin and his family are enjoying a vacation on a Caribbean island. The foursome joins two other families on what is believed to be an adventurous trek through some of the mountains of the island. However, it goes horribly wrong; they are kidnapped and taken hostage by guerrillas and forced into the heart of the Santa Clara wilderness. They are scared for their lives, and for those of Martin's brother and two other tourists, who supposedly escaped their capture. As they go through their ordeal, they learn a lot about the political backdrop of Santa Clara and why exactly their captors are against those current politics. The two-part book Captives speaks of the politics of terror and the harsh world of Santa Clara that is not seen in its tourism.
To be honest with you, the book just couldn't keep my attention. It's an awesome storyline and plot though, which is why I really wanted to review this book. You don't hear of books too often where vacations are ruined due to the fact that the vacationers were kidnapped and taken hostage by guerrillas. But once I began reading Captives, I found my mind wandering, or when I was paying attention, I realized the author was using a lot of the same adjectives to describe the captors, hostages, and their journey (for instance, the word "jaundiced" appeared at least three times within the book, and I could remember what chapter it last appeared in). The first part of the book was a diary of the father, and the second part was of Martin's account of the kidnapping, but the writing styles of the two were just too similar, so at times, it felt like I was reading the book twice.
Content: I'm a Christian, and I just didn't like the fact that every time Martin and his family were in situations they didn't like, they took the name of God in vain. Also, intimacy is mentioned a well amount in the book, and although the author didn't delve into the subject much, there was an instance where it was mentioned that one of the supporting characters had sex.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 15
To be honest with you, the book just couldn't keep my attention. It's an awesome storyline and plot though, which is why I really wanted to review this book. You don't hear of books too often where vacations are ruined due to the fact that the vacationers were kidnapped and taken hostage by guerrillas. But once I began reading Captives, I found my mind wandering, or when I was paying attention, I realized the author was using a lot of the same adjectives to describe the captors, hostages, and their journey (for instance, the word "jaundiced" appeared at least three times within the book, and I could remember what chapter it last appeared in). The first part of the book was a diary of the father, and the second part was of Martin's account of the kidnapping, but the writing styles of the two were just too similar, so at times, it felt like I was reading the book twice.
Content: I'm a Christian, and I just didn't like the fact that every time Martin and his family were in situations they didn't like, they took the name of God in vain. Also, intimacy is mentioned a well amount in the book, and although the author didn't delve into the subject much, there was an instance where it was mentioned that one of the supporting characters had sex.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 15
Shen and the Treasure Fleet by Ray Conlogue
I enjoyed Shen and the Treasure Fleet by Ray Conlogue. For a long time, I have been fascinated by the Zheng He, the 15-century Chinese explorer who is major character of this book. His experience as an explorer was equal to those of some European explorers such as Christopher Columbus and Magellan. Unfortunately, I am not sure how historical accurate the book is. A reader has to read the introduction of the book for it to make sense. The book is little confusing before you get used to it. I did not care for the part of book when the protagonist killed a passenger pigeon carrying an execution order. I thought that was a needless glitch in the plot. However, I enjoyed the exciting plotline and the complex characters. I also liked that the novel took place in a time period that is not very well known. It made it an interesting read.
The book opens in 1403, when there is civil war in China. The Emperor Hui Di's uncle Zhu Di claims he is the rightful heir to the throne. Under Zhu Di's skilled eunuch general Zheng He, his army is besieging the Chinese capital city of Nanjing. The main characters of the book are Shen Fei and his younger sister Chang Fei. Their father, Captain Fei Lee is a personal guardsman of Emperor Hui Di, so the family has to get out of Nanjing before the city is captured. However, Captain Fei Lee has to stay behind because he is a personal guardsman of the Emperor so he has to defend him to the death. Captain Fei Lee hires a mysterious friend, Lan Yi, the owner of the Suzhou Acrobatic Troupe, to smuggle the two children and their mother out of Nanjing. On the road to the Zhenjiang, the group hears that the palace was burned, but Shen believes his father is still alive. As they continue on the way to Zhenjiang, the two children's mother is arrested by a man called Lord Yang Rong, who is the leader of the Brocade army. The Brocade army's goal is to search for "traitors to China" in the army and in society. However, Shen and Chang manage to avoid capture and join Lan Yi's Suzhou Acrobatic Troupe. But the two children are still not safe. The Brocade army is still looking for "traitors" and suspects that the Troupe contains people running from the law. The Army tries to capture the Troupe, but Lan Yi out-smarts them and escapes to the shipyard. There, the troupe is safe because the shipyard is guarded by a marine brigade of Ocean-Spanning guards. At the shipyard, Lan Yi manages to get the Troupe on the famous Treasure Fleet's inaugural voyage. He also manages to secure the position of scribe for Shen. But even on board the Fleet the Troupe is not safe- Lord Yang Rong and some Brocade troops are also allowed to board the fleet as representatives of Emperor Zhu Di. Lord Yang Rong befriends Shen and tells him to help find the overthrown Emperor and Lord Yang will give Shen a letter from his mother. Shen starts to tell Lord Yang classified information he learned from his scribe work. Chang and Lan Yi suspects that Shen is betraying secrets to Lord Yang. Chang and Lan Yi warn Shen not to trust Lord Yang, but Shen doesn't listen to them. Meanwhile, a fight breaks out and a man is killed, pushing the tension on the Fleet to breaking point. Shen, Chang, Lan Yi notice that the Brocade army smuggling weapons onto a secret vessel. What are Lord Yang Rong and the Brocade army up to?
Reviewer Age:17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Urbana, Illinois United States
The book opens in 1403, when there is civil war in China. The Emperor Hui Di's uncle Zhu Di claims he is the rightful heir to the throne. Under Zhu Di's skilled eunuch general Zheng He, his army is besieging the Chinese capital city of Nanjing. The main characters of the book are Shen Fei and his younger sister Chang Fei. Their father, Captain Fei Lee is a personal guardsman of Emperor Hui Di, so the family has to get out of Nanjing before the city is captured. However, Captain Fei Lee has to stay behind because he is a personal guardsman of the Emperor so he has to defend him to the death. Captain Fei Lee hires a mysterious friend, Lan Yi, the owner of the Suzhou Acrobatic Troupe, to smuggle the two children and their mother out of Nanjing. On the road to the Zhenjiang, the group hears that the palace was burned, but Shen believes his father is still alive. As they continue on the way to Zhenjiang, the two children's mother is arrested by a man called Lord Yang Rong, who is the leader of the Brocade army. The Brocade army's goal is to search for "traitors to China" in the army and in society. However, Shen and Chang manage to avoid capture and join Lan Yi's Suzhou Acrobatic Troupe. But the two children are still not safe. The Brocade army is still looking for "traitors" and suspects that the Troupe contains people running from the law. The Army tries to capture the Troupe, but Lan Yi out-smarts them and escapes to the shipyard. There, the troupe is safe because the shipyard is guarded by a marine brigade of Ocean-Spanning guards. At the shipyard, Lan Yi manages to get the Troupe on the famous Treasure Fleet's inaugural voyage. He also manages to secure the position of scribe for Shen. But even on board the Fleet the Troupe is not safe- Lord Yang Rong and some Brocade troops are also allowed to board the fleet as representatives of Emperor Zhu Di. Lord Yang Rong befriends Shen and tells him to help find the overthrown Emperor and Lord Yang will give Shen a letter from his mother. Shen starts to tell Lord Yang classified information he learned from his scribe work. Chang and Lan Yi suspects that Shen is betraying secrets to Lord Yang. Chang and Lan Yi warn Shen not to trust Lord Yang, but Shen doesn't listen to them. Meanwhile, a fight breaks out and a man is killed, pushing the tension on the Fleet to breaking point. Shen, Chang, Lan Yi notice that the Brocade army smuggling weapons onto a secret vessel. What are Lord Yang Rong and the Brocade army up to?
Reviewer Age:17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Urbana, Illinois United States
Sweep by Cate Tiernan
Morgan has always lived in the shadow of her best friend, the gorgeous and popular Bree. When Cal, a handsome and charismatic senior, transfers to their school, he immediately catches Morgan’s eye. But when Bree announces her intention to go after him, Morgan feels that she has no chance and resigns herself to watching from the shadows as usual. But Cal is not your average guy. He practices Wicca, and wastes no time in inviting a group of students to join him in a Wiccan celebration. Morgan is strangely affected by these circles, and Cal starts showing a particular interest in her. Could it be that she is a “blood witch,” descended from one of the seven great witch clans?
BOOK OF SHADOWS is a great beginning to the Sweep series. I’m not a Wiccan, but it was still really interesting to read about their different practices and beliefs. Morgan is a likeable character and is sure to gain readers’ sympathies. It should be kept in mind however, that this is part of series, doesn’t have a definitive ending, and will no doubt leave more than one reader planning a trip to the bookstore to get the next book.Content:2This book deals with a lot of Wiccan celebrations and beliefs, although it is not immediately clear whether the author is in support of it or not.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 18
Reviewer City, State and Country: Little Rock, AR USA
BOOK OF SHADOWS is a great beginning to the Sweep series. I’m not a Wiccan, but it was still really interesting to read about their different practices and beliefs. Morgan is a likeable character and is sure to gain readers’ sympathies. It should be kept in mind however, that this is part of series, doesn’t have a definitive ending, and will no doubt leave more than one reader planning a trip to the bookstore to get the next book.Content:2This book deals with a lot of Wiccan celebrations and beliefs, although it is not immediately clear whether the author is in support of it or not.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 18
Reviewer City, State and Country: Little Rock, AR USA
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
Lissa Dragomir and Rose Hathaway are best friends that literally depend on each other for survival. Lissa is a Moroi princess, a mortal vampire with a link to Earth's magic. Rose, a Dhampir, must protect her from the Strigoi, the most dangerous vampires who never die. The two have a rare bond that allows Rose to feel the emotions that Lissa has, and even see through her eyes when it gets strong enough. They were free from St. Vladimir's Academy, in the deep forests of Montana, for two years until they were drug back to it. Rose has to continue with her Dhampir education. Lissa becomes really popular again. Both girls break many hearts inside the Academy. Even though they thought they were safer outside of the Academy, danger is inside and out of it. Together they need to stay safe from the Strigoi or else Lissa will be one forever.
I thought that this book was very interesting to read. The characters both had very deep actions and emotions that kept me at the edge of my seat wondering what they would do next. The fact that Rose could feel how Lissa was feeling made me even more excited. Even though Vampire Academy is slow at some parts the action builds up and makes it better and better throughout the whole story. At the end, it leaves a huge surprise that made me want even more. I can't wait to read more from Richelle Mead.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America
I thought that this book was very interesting to read. The characters both had very deep actions and emotions that kept me at the edge of my seat wondering what they would do next. The fact that Rose could feel how Lissa was feeling made me even more excited. Even though Vampire Academy is slow at some parts the action builds up and makes it better and better throughout the whole story. At the end, it leaves a huge surprise that made me want even more. I can't wait to read more from Richelle Mead.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America
Seals: Rollling Thunder by Jack Terral
After several weeks of boredom and confinement aboard the USS Dan Daly, Lieutenant William “Wild Bill” Brannigan and his team of SEALS a.k.a. Brannigan’s Brigands finally get a new assignment. There new mission (Rolling Thunder) is to patrol part of Afghanistan close to the Iranian border. After being shipped out to Shelor Fields, an air force base, they familiarize themselves with their new weapons and the DPV’s (Desert Patrol Vehicles). Not soon after arriving they run into and armored caravan of Iranian Special Forces… Who actually turn out to be a terrorist group called Jihad Abadi. Even after that, the plot thickens more when the SEALS discover that the Jihad Abadi are trying to unite the terror groups scattered throughout Afghanistan and Iran to make a massive army, and then begin to make a modern day Persian Empire. Can Brannigan’s Brigands stop the Iranians from uniting the Terrorists?
I thought this was a great book. It was a fast action-packed read. It also offered a very interesting glimpse into what Terrorist Leaders may be thinking. Also, it included a glossary on all of the military abbreviations like DPV and MRE. I think that it did contain strong language, so mature action readers should enjoy this book; however a 12 year old kid should not read it.
Content: This book contained very strong language and some sexual themes.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Denair, California America
I thought this was a great book. It was a fast action-packed read. It also offered a very interesting glimpse into what Terrorist Leaders may be thinking. Also, it included a glossary on all of the military abbreviations like DPV and MRE. I think that it did contain strong language, so mature action readers should enjoy this book; however a 12 year old kid should not read it.
Content: This book contained very strong language and some sexual themes.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Denair, California America
Frenemies by Megan Crane
Augusta "Gus" Curtis is turning thirty. She figures in preparation of becoming a grown-up she has the perfect trio: a stable boyfriend, two best friends, and a great job. When she catches her boyfriend kissing her freshmen year college room-mate, everything good in Gus's life begins to dim. Reeling from emotional upheaval, Gus must find a way to stablize her life again and discover what matters most to her. Full of hilarious antics, Frenemies preaches how growing up might be different than anyone can ever imagine.
Gus is a fantastic character, full of real life dreams and issues. Her best friends provide an excellent comical break from the drama. Frenemies is well written and fun with a typical but enjoyable plot. The book may seem to be an easy speed-read yet there are times when chapters seemed to drag endlessly, repeating the obvious. The book was too long, but don't give it up--the ending is worthwhile.
Content: Frenemies is an adult book, sexual situations occur and there is mention of drinking frequently.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Concord, Massachusetts United States
Gus is a fantastic character, full of real life dreams and issues. Her best friends provide an excellent comical break from the drama. Frenemies is well written and fun with a typical but enjoyable plot. The book may seem to be an easy speed-read yet there are times when chapters seemed to drag endlessly, repeating the obvious. The book was too long, but don't give it up--the ending is worthwhile.
Content: Frenemies is an adult book, sexual situations occur and there is mention of drinking frequently.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Concord, Massachusetts United States
The Hollywood Sisters: Backstage by Mary Wilcox
Jessica's sister Eva is THE teenager in Hollywood at the moment. She's turned her small role on the TV show 'Two Sisters' into a starring role. She's got offers for more roles coming her way. But she's also getting some bad press - the kind that only an insider could hand off to the gossip columnist. Who on set is selling Eva out? Jessica is determined to sleuth around and discover the culprit.
'Backstage Pass' was a cute, fun, fluffy read. I enjoyed the behind-the-scenes glimpses of a sitcom in the making. My main complaint was that the boyfriend/girlfriend relationship between the main character and one of the actors seemed sudden and unrealistic - a bit laughable. The writing, by no means spectacular, moved the story along at a good pace and gave me characters to cheer for. A good beach read, especially for those interested in acting.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Moscow, ID USA
'Backstage Pass' was a cute, fun, fluffy read. I enjoyed the behind-the-scenes glimpses of a sitcom in the making. My main complaint was that the boyfriend/girlfriend relationship between the main character and one of the actors seemed sudden and unrealistic - a bit laughable. The writing, by no means spectacular, moved the story along at a good pace and gave me characters to cheer for. A good beach read, especially for those interested in acting.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Moscow, ID USA
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Lavender-Green Magic by Andre Norton
Holly Wade, her sister Judy, and her brother Crockett are in a bad mood. Their mother is sending them to live with their grandparents while she goes and works in a different town. While Judy and Crockett start to adjust to living in a junkyard and going to school, Holly refuses to enjoy anything. When she and her siblings find a magical pillow and mysterious maze things start changing drastically, but not necessarily in a good way.
It took me a little bit to get into this book, but once I did it was a cute read. Mazes have always interested me so I enjoyed reading what Andre Norton thought up. Another thing I liked was the insights into African-American culture. Some very good lessons I got from this book were how to distinguish good and evil, listen to your heart, and believe in your family.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: , North Carolina USA
It took me a little bit to get into this book, but once I did it was a cute read. Mazes have always interested me so I enjoyed reading what Andre Norton thought up. Another thing I liked was the insights into African-American culture. Some very good lessons I got from this book were how to distinguish good and evil, listen to your heart, and believe in your family.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: , North Carolina USA
Love, Cajun Style by Diane Les Becquets
Lucy and her 2 best friends, Evie and Mary Jordan have one of the most eventful summers of their lives. Everything changes when the artist Mr. Savoi and his son Dewie move into their small Louisiana town. All of the girls get a taste of summer love. Lucy begins a relationship with Dewie, yet she also has to make sense of her feelings for her older drama teacher, Mr. Banks, whose daughter she babysits. Then, her mother keeps disappearing for long periods of time, suspiciously at Mr. Savoi's house and Lucy thinks that her mother is having an affair. By the end of the summer, Lucy and her friends learn that love turns up in the most unexpected places.
I thought that this book had some very entertaining scenes. It was a little slow in the beginning, but it definately picked up as the story went on. By the end, I couldn't put the book down. The characters were very interesting and I loved that the story was set in Louisiana. Love, Cajun Style is the perfect summer read and I'm looking forward to seeing what Diana Les Becquets will cook up next!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 20
Reviewer City, State and Country: Philadelphia, PA USA
I thought that this book had some very entertaining scenes. It was a little slow in the beginning, but it definately picked up as the story went on. By the end, I couldn't put the book down. The characters were very interesting and I loved that the story was set in Louisiana. Love, Cajun Style is the perfect summer read and I'm looking forward to seeing what Diana Les Becquets will cook up next!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 20
Reviewer City, State and Country: Philadelphia, PA USA
The Dream of the Stone by Christina Askounis
The book starts with Sarah’s parents being very suspicious about Sarah’s older brother’s job. Sarah’s parents go to check on Sarah’s brother in California and end up dieing in a plane crash. Sarah then has to go to New York and live with her aunt and uncle. When a dark stone appears in the mail from Sarah’s brother Sam, Sarah and her friend Angel are taken to the planet Oneiros. Unfortunately, Sarah loses the dark stone that can save Sam from the Institute he used to work for. This is where Sarah must become the stone-bearer and Angel king.
I thought the book was very well written. It was a little slow at times but very good over all. The author mixed mystery with a little action in this book to make readers want to keep reading. The book had a surprising amount of tricky vocabulary. There where words like wormholes, quantum, continuum, and antimatter. The author must have put a lot of thought in to writing this book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Hamilton, OH USA
I thought the book was very well written. It was a little slow at times but very good over all. The author mixed mystery with a little action in this book to make readers want to keep reading. The book had a surprising amount of tricky vocabulary. There where words like wormholes, quantum, continuum, and antimatter. The author must have put a lot of thought in to writing this book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Hamilton, OH USA
Ironside: A Modern Faery's Tale by Holly Black
Kaye, Roiben and the rest of the faerie world are back in a whole new adventure. As Roiben’s coronation rolls around, Kaye declares herself to Roiben, and is sent on an impossible quest. Kaye, not being able to see Roiben until the quest is complete, returns home. When she is caught off guard, she is forced to tell her mother about the changeling. Kaye goes to the Seelie Court to get her counterpart back. Upon going, Kaye is caught up in a plot by the Seelie queen herself to get Roiben’s throne. Kaye must outwit the entire faerie realm in order to save herself and Roiben.
This was the most believable fairy tale I have read. Between the evil faeries and the urban lifestyle, this makes an exciting read. Black’s characters are very real, even the faeries. They all have human emotions and characteristics. The way she writes is so confident, it’s descriptive and intelligent. It was like she was really in this faerie realm! This would truly be a good read for anyone who liked Faerie Wars by Herbie Brennan. Black has written two other novels that I have read, Tithe, and Valiant, both of which match up to this book. All three are wonderful books.
Content: There is talk of sex and drugs.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, USA
This was the most believable fairy tale I have read. Between the evil faeries and the urban lifestyle, this makes an exciting read. Black’s characters are very real, even the faeries. They all have human emotions and characteristics. The way she writes is so confident, it’s descriptive and intelligent. It was like she was really in this faerie realm! This would truly be a good read for anyone who liked Faerie Wars by Herbie Brennan. Black has written two other novels that I have read, Tithe, and Valiant, both of which match up to this book. All three are wonderful books.
Content: There is talk of sex and drugs.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, USA
Farseed by Pamela Sargent
The inhabitants of Ship are back. Now they are finally on Home and have settled down to have children. After Ho had left the group, he and his people are starting to starve. After five years of not coming to the Settlement, a group of three are sent on an expedition to find and help Ho’s group. Two of the group get lost, and one is killed by Ho, who casts out his own daughter upon seeing her with the man he killed. A second expedition is sent out from the Settlement, but what happens when things go wrong and a war starts again?
This book was unlike anything I have ever read before. The whole idea about seeding planets was a new theory to me. Definitely imaginative. The book had down-to-Earth characters, even though they were light-years away. Some of the language used seemed unnatural for the character speaking, although it did have some good dialogue and conversations between characters. Her descriptions of plants, animals, and feelings were amazing; it seemed like the author was writing from experience. This is the second in a series, and the first book is just as good if not better than this one. Earthseed tells about how the inhabitants of Ship came to be on Home. This is a book for science-fiction lovers, who are looking for a new and interesting read.
Content: There is some talk of sex and other people's bodies.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
This book was unlike anything I have ever read before. The whole idea about seeding planets was a new theory to me. Definitely imaginative. The book had down-to-Earth characters, even though they were light-years away. Some of the language used seemed unnatural for the character speaking, although it did have some good dialogue and conversations between characters. Her descriptions of plants, animals, and feelings were amazing; it seemed like the author was writing from experience. This is the second in a series, and the first book is just as good if not better than this one. Earthseed tells about how the inhabitants of Ship came to be on Home. This is a book for science-fiction lovers, who are looking for a new and interesting read.
Content: There is some talk of sex and other people's bodies.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
May Bird, Warrior Princess: Book Three by Jodi Lynn Anderson
May Bird has been living on Earth for three years since coming back from the Ever After. No one, not even her loving mother, believes her wild stories about her ghostly friends. When she goes on her house's Widow's Walk, May and Somber Kitty fall to their deaths. They appear right away, in the Spectroplex in the Ever After. May decides to go back to where her friends Arista and Pumpkin would be, no one is there. In fact, no one is anywhere to be seen. Finally, after roaming around to different cities, May finally meets up with Pumpkin. She learns that her other friends such as Beatrice, Fabbio, and Lucious were captured by the Dark Spirits. May also learns that the Evil Bo Cleevil is even closer to taking over the Ever After, and then is going to try to capture Earth as well. May and Pumpkin set off to rescue her friends and then they form a group called the Free Spirits that are determined to beat Bo Cleevil. The Book of the Dead, the book with every answer in it, says that May won't defeat Bo Cleevil. Is the book wrong? Or will someone else step up to the plate and finally bring peace and happiness back to the Ever After?
This is the final book in the May Bird series and I thought it was wonderful. It had so much action and humor in it that I could not put it down. The characters had emotion and personalities that were extremely wonderful for a book. Compared to the two other stories in this series, May Bird: Warrior Princess, captures the reader with an even more excellent plot that will surely keep their interest. This book was different than any I have read before because of its combination of the world of the living and the world of the dead. I recomend this book to anyone interested in a book with action and fantasy.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America
This is the final book in the May Bird series and I thought it was wonderful. It had so much action and humor in it that I could not put it down. The characters had emotion and personalities that were extremely wonderful for a book. Compared to the two other stories in this series, May Bird: Warrior Princess, captures the reader with an even more excellent plot that will surely keep their interest. This book was different than any I have read before because of its combination of the world of the living and the world of the dead. I recomend this book to anyone interested in a book with action and fantasy.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America
The Candy Shop Wars by Brandon Mull
At almost the same time that Nate moves to town and meets some new friends, Sweet Tooth Ice Cream and Candy Shoppe opens its doors. Nate and his three pals make the acquaintance of the kindly (yet mysterious) old shop owner, Mrs. White. Soon they discover that her delicious sweets and yummy treats have more to them than meets the eye. Some of them actually have magical properties! And Mrs. White promises to give the candy to them free of charge - if they will do a few (very) odd jobs for her in return.
I really liked the premise of this book with all of the fun, bizarre magical candies. The characters, however, were hugely lacking in depth. Without caring about them, I found it difficult to find motivation to continue reading, despite the adventure-packed plot. After the author's extremely enjoyable debut 'Fablehaven', I expected more from this, his third novel. Unfortunately, the shallow characters and unremarkable writing resulted in a very unsatisfactory read.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 4
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Moscow, ID USA
I really liked the premise of this book with all of the fun, bizarre magical candies. The characters, however, were hugely lacking in depth. Without caring about them, I found it difficult to find motivation to continue reading, despite the adventure-packed plot. After the author's extremely enjoyable debut 'Fablehaven', I expected more from this, his third novel. Unfortunately, the shallow characters and unremarkable writing resulted in a very unsatisfactory read.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 4
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Moscow, ID USA
Questors by Joan Lennon
Questors is an exciting fantasy book about three kids, Madlen, Bryn, and Cam, who set out on a journey to save the worlds from an energy leak. The three travel ten years into the future to find three objects of power from each of the three worlds, Trentor, Kir and Daldrodia. Unexpected events occur, and they never know when or what will set their minds astray from the job that needs to be done. They battle zombies, strangers, dragons, soldiers, storms, apples, a plane, and themselves along the way. They struggle with the tension of the new worlds because they are not used to the climates, traditions, or people of the worlds. They find several facts of the three strangers that they soon know as family. Their journey is full of heat, snow, buildings, and a huge London House.
This book contains, laughter, suspense, fun, mystery, and magic. At first, the book seems a bit confusing, but the plot soon settles down and becomes familiar. Questors contains some mild language, but includes very unique word choices. Joan Lennon’s book will please readers who want a good laugh and who like fantasy or mystery; protagonists are similar to today’s teens or preteens. Questors is very well written, and includes surprises to readers who keep thinking about the situation. Questors is DEFINITELY a page turner. This will be a big hit in stores all over the country. (I predict that.) Join the Quest by reading this book!
Content: It has mild language.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Ocala, Florida United States
This book contains, laughter, suspense, fun, mystery, and magic. At first, the book seems a bit confusing, but the plot soon settles down and becomes familiar. Questors contains some mild language, but includes very unique word choices. Joan Lennon’s book will please readers who want a good laugh and who like fantasy or mystery; protagonists are similar to today’s teens or preteens. Questors is very well written, and includes surprises to readers who keep thinking about the situation. Questors is DEFINITELY a page turner. This will be a big hit in stores all over the country. (I predict that.) Join the Quest by reading this book!
Content: It has mild language.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Ocala, Florida United States
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Stray by Stacery Goldblatt
Stray is about a 16 year old girl named natalie who has been under her mothers claws ever since her father left them for another woman. To get away from her mom she spends most of her time with her dogs at home and at her job at her moms veterinary clinic. To make matters worse her mom has invited her friends son, Carver to stay with them for the summer, and she has given the room over the garage to him as well. Even after her mom promised it to her. expects the worst summer of her life little does she know Carver and her have a little bit more in commmon than she thought.
I really enjoyed this book. It's a very cute story that mainly is about how a 16 year old teenager deals with her overbearing mother. Natalie has to make a lot of hard decisions throughout the book, and most of them are against her mother's decisions. I really think by reading this book you realize how a mother should and shouldn't act towards a teenager. Sometimes being overbearing doesn't always work out.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 18
Reviewer City, State and Country: Dundee, Oregon USA
I really enjoyed this book. It's a very cute story that mainly is about how a 16 year old teenager deals with her overbearing mother. Natalie has to make a lot of hard decisions throughout the book, and most of them are against her mother's decisions. I really think by reading this book you realize how a mother should and shouldn't act towards a teenager. Sometimes being overbearing doesn't always work out.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 18
Reviewer City, State and Country: Dundee, Oregon USA
Starnge Relations by Sonia Levitin
Strange Relations is a book of faith and believing in yourself. Marne’s parents are going away for the summer and Marne has no where to go. Then she remembers her mysterious Aunt Carol in Hawaii. What Marne finds there is not what she expected. Everything is different, the girls wear long skirts and long sleeved shirts, they have way too many kids, and the are very religious. When an accident happens Marne finally learns what it is like to have faith.
This book for me was especially interesting because I was born and lived in Hawaii for a short period of time. And so it is fun for me to read about Hawaiian religion. But it wasn’t what I expected. It was good but I don’t think the author really thought about other things like all the characters feelings etc. I just had a feeling that the author rushed into things.
Content: fatih-based
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, IL
This book for me was especially interesting because I was born and lived in Hawaii for a short period of time. And so it is fun for me to read about Hawaiian religion. But it wasn’t what I expected. It was good but I don’t think the author really thought about other things like all the characters feelings etc. I just had a feeling that the author rushed into things.
Content: fatih-based
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, IL
One Way Ticket by Malin Alegria
Even though seventeen-year-old Sofi Mendoza was born in Mexico, she's lived in California for most of her life. But on a spring break trip to Tijuana with her friends, Sofi gets an unexpected crash course in local culture. Then, on their way back, their car gets stopped at the border and Sofi is shocked to learn that she's not a U.S. citizen so she isn't allowed back into the country. Fortunately, there are relatives Sofi can stay with while her green-card situation is sorted out. Unfortunately, her cousins live on a ranch with no indoor plumbing. Confused and abandoned, Sofi is forced to adapt to her surroundings, but as she faces--and overcomes--her challenges, she comes to appreciate her place on both sides of the border.
One Way Ticket was an awesome read. You could definitely say this book was a page turner, because I stayed up all night finishing it. I thought this book was great because it was based on a true story. It was very interesting to read about the problems Sofi dealt with and then realize that real people have had the same experiences. Reading this book made me appreciate my life and see how lucky I am. This book has a great plot, filled with humor, drama, romance, and sorrow. The characters were very likeable and realistic. I also liked that this book had some Spanish in it and that there was even a "Spanish Survival Guide" in the back that translated what the characters had said into English. The ending was also good, because I wasn't left hanging. I think all young adult readers would love reading One Way Ticket!
Content: This book contained underage drinking, profanity, and sexual comments.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, Missouri USA
One Way Ticket was an awesome read. You could definitely say this book was a page turner, because I stayed up all night finishing it. I thought this book was great because it was based on a true story. It was very interesting to read about the problems Sofi dealt with and then realize that real people have had the same experiences. Reading this book made me appreciate my life and see how lucky I am. This book has a great plot, filled with humor, drama, romance, and sorrow. The characters were very likeable and realistic. I also liked that this book had some Spanish in it and that there was even a "Spanish Survival Guide" in the back that translated what the characters had said into English. The ending was also good, because I wasn't left hanging. I think all young adult readers would love reading One Way Ticket!
Content: This book contained underage drinking, profanity, and sexual comments.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, Missouri USA
The One Where the Kid Nearly Jumps to His Death by Mary Hershey
In this novel by Mary Hershey, you’ll meet Alastair, an amputee who is forced to visit his ex-father in California. While living with his dad, Alastair tries to come up with a plan to make his father regret leaving his family. Alastair also meets his step mom, a double amputee who tries the best she can to be a great step, but Alastair is determined to find a way to get back home. Alastair (or Stump) meets Jesse, who encourages him to enter in an athletic race. Since he has only one leg, and he likes Jesse, he goes through intensive swimming training with Coach, the local high school swim coach. When Stump discovers that Jesse’s “secret” boyfriend is on their team for he race, it suddenly becomes more than just a race. The story ends with a tragic death, and Alastair forgiving his dad.
The One Where the Kid Nearly Jumps To His Death and Lands In California was probably the best book I have ever read. With the main character’s sarcasm, this book was hysterical! I couldn’t put it down at all, especially at the end. The event was completely unexpected and made me cry. The plot was fantastic with its twists and surprise. I’d have to recommend this novel to anyone who likes adventuress love stories.
Content: It contained many rude words and critcism
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Coatesville, Pennyslavania U.S.A.
The One Where the Kid Nearly Jumps To His Death and Lands In California was probably the best book I have ever read. With the main character’s sarcasm, this book was hysterical! I couldn’t put it down at all, especially at the end. The event was completely unexpected and made me cry. The plot was fantastic with its twists and surprise. I’d have to recommend this novel to anyone who likes adventuress love stories.
Content: It contained many rude words and critcism
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Coatesville, Pennyslavania U.S.A.
An Unexpected Aprentice by Jody Lynn Nye
Orphan Tildi Summerbee's family is working when her brothers are kidnapped by thriks, giant bird-looking creatures. On the same day of Tildi's loss, the town decides that Tildi must marry to keep the family land. They decide that she must marry someone she hates, so Tildi decides to run away. Disguised as one of her dead brothers, Tildi runs to a wizard named Olen. She takes up an apprentinceshp with him and pretends to be her dead brother for three months. During that time, she learns about runes: markings that every object in existance has. All runes are kept in a book called the Great Book. At the end of three months, she tells Olen she's a girl and finds that the Great Book has been stolen. She is requested to go on a quest with others to find the Great Book and return it to Olen. Once they find the Great Book and its kidnapper, Tildi and the kidnapper, a man named Nemeth, magically fight for the book. Tildi wins and at the end of the book has to return the Great Book to Olen.
The book reminds me of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, except that the main character is a girl. I liked the book, though I think the book could extend its action scenes. Out of all the characters, I would have to say that I liked Nemeth and Tildi best of all. Tildi showed that women CAN be the heros of the story, though her town decides that women aren't capable of taking care of themselves. I like Nemeth because he shows loyalty to his master. I think the ending was good, though the author could have extended it. I think it was a good book for it showed women in a different light; as heroines.
Content: The beginning of the book contains a lot of death.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Pottstown, PA United States
The book reminds me of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, except that the main character is a girl. I liked the book, though I think the book could extend its action scenes. Out of all the characters, I would have to say that I liked Nemeth and Tildi best of all. Tildi showed that women CAN be the heros of the story, though her town decides that women aren't capable of taking care of themselves. I like Nemeth because he shows loyalty to his master. I think the ending was good, though the author could have extended it. I think it was a good book for it showed women in a different light; as heroines.
Content: The beginning of the book contains a lot of death.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Pottstown, PA United States
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Head Case by Sarah Aronson
One mistake. One bad night. One too many drinks. Frank Marder is a head, paralyzed from the neck down, and it's his fault. He was drinking. He was driving. Now Frank can't walk, he can't move, he can't feel his skin. He needs someone to feed him, to wash him, to move his body. When you're a head, do you ever feel like a whole person? Will Frank ever get to forgive himself? But if you ask most of the people who are posting on www.quadkingonthenet.com, he hasn't been adequately punished. Two people are dead because of him. Frank should go to jail. Only "Anonymous" disagrees.
Head Case was a really, really good book. I mostly liked reading this book because it taught a lesson about drinking and driving. While reading, I was drawn into the plot immediately. I felt connected with Frank because he was like a real person. The only thing I really didn't like about the book was the ending, because we don't find out what happens to Frank. I think the author could have improved the story by giving readers the point of view of the Stein family, whose daughter was killed in the accident. All-in-all, this book was wonderful. Every teenager should read it because it has such a strong message.
Content: This book had sexual content and profanity.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, Missouri USA
Head Case was a really, really good book. I mostly liked reading this book because it taught a lesson about drinking and driving. While reading, I was drawn into the plot immediately. I felt connected with Frank because he was like a real person. The only thing I really didn't like about the book was the ending, because we don't find out what happens to Frank. I think the author could have improved the story by giving readers the point of view of the Stein family, whose daughter was killed in the accident. All-in-all, this book was wonderful. Every teenager should read it because it has such a strong message.
Content: This book had sexual content and profanity.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, Missouri USA
Miracle Wimp by Erik P. Kraft
Thomas Mayo is your everyday nerd. With a last name like Mayo, he was bound to be made fun of, and so of course, Mayo’s clever fellow classmates dubbed him Miracle Wimp (Get it, It’s like Miracle Whip, except they say Wimp instead!). This is a book about him. Together him and his two good friends embark on lame but enjoyable adventures. Some of these adventures are for Mayo alone. For instance he is forced to take wood Shop with a bunch of donkeys and Mr. Boort--the bouillon cube eating teacher who wears Lucky star designer Jeans. Come to think about it, Wimp encounters more than one problem involving pants. I won't give it all away though, you will just have to read the book to find out more about donkeys, pants, girls, Mr. Boort, funky dancing and all those other fun things that come when you're growing up as "Miracle Wimp."
I think what I liked most about this book was that the chapters were short, as too not overwhelm, and most of his thoughts are short, sweet and to the point. Instead of dragging on in detail about each day Mayo only mentions completely random or somewhat interesting parts of his day. It’s easy to relate to Mayo because we’ve all gone through similar embarrassments and problems. I love Kraft’s ideas and perspective, he really makes you want to root for the “Hero” he’s created, otherwise known as Thomas Mayo. Though--like many books--it goes through the motions of high school, Kraft uses a unique writing style and a likeable main character, to produce a simple yet delightful tale of a boy named after a sweet sandwich spread and/or salad dressing.
Content: It's a book set in High School, need i say more? Well there's references to smoking, and i think there's a little swearing.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: sandy, Oregon United States
I think what I liked most about this book was that the chapters were short, as too not overwhelm, and most of his thoughts are short, sweet and to the point. Instead of dragging on in detail about each day Mayo only mentions completely random or somewhat interesting parts of his day. It’s easy to relate to Mayo because we’ve all gone through similar embarrassments and problems. I love Kraft’s ideas and perspective, he really makes you want to root for the “Hero” he’s created, otherwise known as Thomas Mayo. Though--like many books--it goes through the motions of high school, Kraft uses a unique writing style and a likeable main character, to produce a simple yet delightful tale of a boy named after a sweet sandwich spread and/or salad dressing.
Content: It's a book set in High School, need i say more? Well there's references to smoking, and i think there's a little swearing.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: sandy, Oregon United States
Tasting the Sky by Ibtisam Barakat
The book is a story of a young girl growing up during the Six-Day War in the Middle East. She talks about the trouble her family went through. They sacrificed a lot to keep their family alive and well, even if it meant the separation of the family. Ibtisam Barakat describes how the events effected her life and made her become who she is today. She talks about soldier being stationed outside of her home, about her brothers' and their adventures, and about learning to care for her little sister. Ibtisam Barakat is a gifted writer.
Ibtisam Barakat did a wonderful job in this novel. She described everything is vivid detail. I learned so much about the Middle East from this book. I could see everything in my mind like I was actually there during her childhood. She was brutally honest throughout the entire story and she just tells it as it is. This book is a sad tale but definitely an inspiration to all who read it.
Content: The brutal truth may be too much for younger readers. Also, younger readers might not understand the disguised actions of her childhood. An example is when she is almost raped by a neighborhood teenager.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Phoenixville, Pennsylvania U.S.A.
Ibtisam Barakat did a wonderful job in this novel. She described everything is vivid detail. I learned so much about the Middle East from this book. I could see everything in my mind like I was actually there during her childhood. She was brutally honest throughout the entire story and she just tells it as it is. This book is a sad tale but definitely an inspiration to all who read it.
Content: The brutal truth may be too much for younger readers. Also, younger readers might not understand the disguised actions of her childhood. An example is when she is almost raped by a neighborhood teenager.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Phoenixville, Pennsylvania U.S.A.
For Money and Love (Mob Princess) by Todd Strasser
Kate Blessing is just like any other high school student. Except that her family's involved in various sorts of organized crime. It's nothing major--just scams involving knockoffs and pirated DVDs for the most part. But when her father's organization gets into trouble from a rival organization, Kate comes to her father's rescue. For the moment, at least. Before long, though, Kate's dealing with family problems, "business" problems, the SATs, and, of course, guy trouble.
This book was a lot of fun! Kate is a great character, and of course the book's premise--the Sopranos in book form and for teenagers--is an original, interesting one. For Money And Love is, while not unforgettable, definitely a page-turner. I'll be interested to read the next book in the Mob Princess series! It's got romance, fun, and, of course, mobsters.
Content: Some mature content (though not graphic) and the stuff that comes along with a book about mobsters (crime, violence).
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
This book was a lot of fun! Kate is a great character, and of course the book's premise--the Sopranos in book form and for teenagers--is an original, interesting one. For Money And Love is, while not unforgettable, definitely a page-turner. I'll be interested to read the next book in the Mob Princess series! It's got romance, fun, and, of course, mobsters.
Content: Some mature content (though not graphic) and the stuff that comes along with a book about mobsters (crime, violence).
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
How Ya Like Me Now by Brendan Halpin
Ever since his dad died, Eddie's mom has been pretty much ignoring him. She spends all her time getting high, and leaves Eddie to take care of himself and the household. When she's arrested and sent to rehab, Eddie goes to live with his aunt, uncle, and cousin in the city. Alex is a little less than thrilled about having to share his room with his cousin Eddie, but he knows that Eddie's had a lot of tough stuff going on in his life, so he'll do his best to make him feel welcome. That's not as easy as it sounds, though. Eddie has to come to terms with his old life while finding his place in his new one, and that's not going to be simple for either of them.
How Ya Like Me Now is an engrossing, interesting book that is short enough to read in one sitting! Halpin's characters are lifelike and very well written (as is the whole book). His story is interesting enough to keep readers turning pages. It's definitely one of the better dysfunctional-parent stories out there, but that's not all it is. Eddie's adjustment to his new environment is just painfully awkward enough to be real, and in the end this is a satisfying story that is well worth reading.
Content: There is drug usage (by Eddie's mother).
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
How Ya Like Me Now is an engrossing, interesting book that is short enough to read in one sitting! Halpin's characters are lifelike and very well written (as is the whole book). His story is interesting enough to keep readers turning pages. It's definitely one of the better dysfunctional-parent stories out there, but that's not all it is. Eddie's adjustment to his new environment is just painfully awkward enough to be real, and in the end this is a satisfying story that is well worth reading.
Content: There is drug usage (by Eddie's mother).
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
Major Crush by Jennifer Echols
Tired of the beauty-pageant circuit, Virginia Sauter tosses her tiara, pierces her nose, and auditions for the most unlikely of roles--drum major of the high school marching band. Virginia wins, but is forced to share the title with Drew, whose family has held the position for generations. Sure, Drew is hot, but because of his superior attitude, he and Virginia are constantly arguing. That is, until they share more than just their half-time salute... But as the drum majors' heated competition turns to sizzling romance, explosive rumors threaten everything--including the band's success. Love seemed to be a sure hit, but Virginia and Drew may be marching straight into disaster.
I loved reading Major Crush. It was pretty realistic and had many laugh-out-loud moments. The plot was great, but sometimes it seemed kind of predictable. I also thought the characters were great, because they were original and fun to read about. I really liked the author's style of writing. She included just the right amount of detail, drama, humor, and romance to make this book the page turner it was. I really couldn't put this book down. Major Crush is a must-read for all teenage girls.
Content: There were mentions of sex in this book, which may be inappropriate for young readers.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, Missouri USA
I loved reading Major Crush. It was pretty realistic and had many laugh-out-loud moments. The plot was great, but sometimes it seemed kind of predictable. I also thought the characters were great, because they were original and fun to read about. I really liked the author's style of writing. She included just the right amount of detail, drama, humor, and romance to make this book the page turner it was. I really couldn't put this book down. Major Crush is a must-read for all teenage girls.
Content: There were mentions of sex in this book, which may be inappropriate for young readers.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Leopold, Missouri USA
Hidden by Dottie Enderle
Fiona's grandmother died,so there family has to clear out the house and sell it. Fiona discovers a card addressed to her grandmother from her grandfather. In the card, it had said that he had hidden something valuable that could change her family's life. Fiona was determined to figure it out, along with her friend, Eugene, who's alittle unusual. She ends up having to leave the house, but decides to take one last trip to her grandmother's house, to look for the hidden item, what happens next puts Fiona in great danger!
I loved the twist and turns the most. One minute Fiona was at her grandmother's house,the next she was in great danger. I love her curiousty. When she found the card, she immidately took intrest. I also loved how the author never lost topic. She always talked about the hidden item. I loved the ending. The author didn't leave you with questions, like other books can. The vocabulary was easy to understand and would really be mature for all readers. The author really made it a children's book.
Reviewer Age:11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Fort Wayne, Indiana U.S.A
I loved the twist and turns the most. One minute Fiona was at her grandmother's house,the next she was in great danger. I love her curiousty. When she found the card, she immidately took intrest. I also loved how the author never lost topic. She always talked about the hidden item. I loved the ending. The author didn't leave you with questions, like other books can. The vocabulary was easy to understand and would really be mature for all readers. The author really made it a children's book.
Reviewer Age:11
Reviewer City, State and Country: Fort Wayne, Indiana U.S.A
Monday, July 23, 2007
November Blues by Sharon M. Draper
November Nelson is your ideal student of the 11th grade. She has a nice, popular boyfriend, Josh, she does really well in school, her mom thinks she is perfect, and she has tons of friends. But she feels as if her life is going through the tubes after Josh dies from a mishap gone wrong. That's not it, she found out something else about herself that will change her life drastically forever. Now she has to make the biggest decision she'll ever face. She only wishes Josh was here to help her get through things... Jericho Prescott is the cousin of Josh. The day Josh died he not only lost his cousin but his best friend too. He feels as if he can't escape feeling sad and depressed. Jericho also feels that he can't go on doing what he used to love to do, playing his trumpet. He feels if as he must do something that makes himself feel complete again. Will that something be football?
I really enjoyed reading this book. Generally this book kept my attention though it was not a page-turner that kept me looking for more. My favorite characters were definitely Olivia and November. Olivia had to deal with a lot of teasing about her weight at school but she still stood strong and did not let what people say affect here. Next, November was one of my favorite characters because she had to go through a lot. I could never imagine being put under the pressure she had to go through. I learned that in life that the decisions you make are crucial, if you make the wrong one you will most likely will regret it.
Content: This book talked a lot about pregnancy that would not be suitable for children under 12.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States
I really enjoyed reading this book. Generally this book kept my attention though it was not a page-turner that kept me looking for more. My favorite characters were definitely Olivia and November. Olivia had to deal with a lot of teasing about her weight at school but she still stood strong and did not let what people say affect here. Next, November was one of my favorite characters because she had to go through a lot. I could never imagine being put under the pressure she had to go through. I learned that in life that the decisions you make are crucial, if you make the wrong one you will most likely will regret it.
Content: This book talked a lot about pregnancy that would not be suitable for children under 12.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States
Cures for Heartbreak by Margo Rabb
Young Mia and her Sister Alex suffer a loss of their mother at only the age of 16. Soon afterwards, their father goes into the hospital from a heart attack. After her sister moves off to college, Mia starts reading her parents' "Health Now" magazines and eating right, dissorders, and, diseases is all she can think about. A few months later, they have a scare with her father landing him in the hospital for a while and he meets up with a women. Wedding Plans... Step=Daughters... Tragedy - OH MY!
This book was great. In the beginning, it was a bit slow but soon the book picked up. Event after event, boy after boy! The auther made sure that you knew every character like they were your own sister or father. She was sure to leave NOTHING out. A little unrealistic at times but was a fantastic read! The title can be a little misleading - this book doesnt have as much romance as it does heartbreak but most of the heartbreak is from family members. dont be mislead!
Content: This book contains some graphic sexual content and brief crude language.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: CL., PA USA
This book was great. In the beginning, it was a bit slow but soon the book picked up. Event after event, boy after boy! The auther made sure that you knew every character like they were your own sister or father. She was sure to leave NOTHING out. A little unrealistic at times but was a fantastic read! The title can be a little misleading - this book doesnt have as much romance as it does heartbreak but most of the heartbreak is from family members. dont be mislead!
Content: This book contains some graphic sexual content and brief crude language.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: CL., PA USA
Fendi, Ferragamo, and Fangs by Julie Kenner, Johanna Edwards, and Sere
Olivia, or Liv, is a seveteen year old girl that is very intelligent. Veronika is a plus-sized model, so some girls pick on her. Lastly, Sydney has the impression of being a bad girl. They have all just won a contest and now are models for Vamp Modeling Inc. in New York City. Shortly after they get there, they are all taken to special parties where they are all bitten and turned into vampires. Finding prey isn't that hard to do when they are all so gorgeous. After a while they all want love. Olivia has a boyfriend back at her old home and she struggles to say with him. Veronika found a super cute boy named Jackson and Sydney fell in love with her body gaurd, Carl. Will the girls stay happy with Vamp? Or will they run away with their loves?
I thought it was a very interesting book. The whole book was spilt into three differet stories, but they all combined together. The three characters were very different and had a variety of ways to add to the story. Also, each different mini-story, had several new characters that played as the person in charge, hairdresser, boyfriend, and so on. That became confusing for a little bit because i had to remember so many names. The only thing I didn't really like, was that the stories all ended the same way pretty much. I do recommend this book to anyone interested in vampires or fashion.
Content: It includes kissing and description of blood.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America
I thought it was a very interesting book. The whole book was spilt into three differet stories, but they all combined together. The three characters were very different and had a variety of ways to add to the story. Also, each different mini-story, had several new characters that played as the person in charge, hairdresser, boyfriend, and so on. That became confusing for a little bit because i had to remember so many names. The only thing I didn't really like, was that the stories all ended the same way pretty much. I do recommend this book to anyone interested in vampires or fashion.
Content: It includes kissing and description of blood.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America
Sara's Face by Melvin Burgess
Sara's Face is a chilling tale of a seventeen year old girl looking for an escape from the "skin she's in". Sara is a wild and beautiful girl--she is not your typical teenager. She flits from character to character each day, her friends and family never know who or what Sara will become. As injuries and anorexia become aparent in Sara's life she is finally brought to a hospital. There her dream comes true. Jonathan Heat is a glorious superstar, infamous for his constantly changing facial features--cosmetic surgery has been a constant in Heat's life. Sara is lying in a hospital bed when Heat visits and determines that he must take her home. There he gives her everything she would ever need. She could surgically change every part of her body, something Sara has been aspiring to do for years. As Sara's life drastically changes at Heat's home, wonder and horror overtake Sara and the people around her. What will happen to the face Sara so badly wants to rid herself of? What will become of her? Written from the perspective of a novelist searching for clues of Sara's life, interviews and opinions from her family, friends, and even Sara's video diary, Sara's Face is a dramatic novel--a mix between reality and fantasy.
Sara's Face is almost like a horror story in its own way. Chilling, gripping, and sometimes confusing it was certainly a book that readers will have a hard time putting down. Sara was a frustrating character, few will have a hard time relating to her wild antics and lack of love for anyone but herself. However, the characters that surround Sara, her best friend, boyfriend, nurse, and even Heat give the book a fantastic perspective of love and friendship as they attempt to understand a girl who might never be understood. Sara's Face is a tale of drama, horror (ther is a ghost-like presence that surrounds Sara), mystery, and fantasy. It is a quick read that keeps its readers interested and excited.
Content: Sara's Face uses mature language and there are many sexual references. It also has a scare component to it.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Concord, Massachusetts United States
Sara's Face is almost like a horror story in its own way. Chilling, gripping, and sometimes confusing it was certainly a book that readers will have a hard time putting down. Sara was a frustrating character, few will have a hard time relating to her wild antics and lack of love for anyone but herself. However, the characters that surround Sara, her best friend, boyfriend, nurse, and even Heat give the book a fantastic perspective of love and friendship as they attempt to understand a girl who might never be understood. Sara's Face is a tale of drama, horror (ther is a ghost-like presence that surrounds Sara), mystery, and fantasy. It is a quick read that keeps its readers interested and excited.
Content: Sara's Face uses mature language and there are many sexual references. It also has a scare component to it.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Concord, Massachusetts United States
Sunday, July 22, 2007
All-in by Pete Hautman
The book started with Denn Doyle betting his last 16,000 dollars and losing. Denn is a 17 year old boy with a fake ID so he can play no-limit gambling and now he’s broke. Denn works his way up from nothing and meets Artie Kingston the man that set him up to lose all his money. Artie is having a grand opening of his new casino and Denn wants to win his money back. Denn tries to win it all back in a winner take-all Texas holdem tournament but he can't make it.
I think the book was very good. The book is an edge of your seat page turner. I never understood gambling but the author put a glossary in the back of the book that really helped. The author also took turns putting you in a different character’s head every chapter. You have to be careful and read the name at the beginning of the chapter if you want to follow the story. In my opinion I think it makes the book more interesting. The only let down was the ending. I was wondering what happened to the main character.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Hamilton, OH USA
I think the book was very good. The book is an edge of your seat page turner. I never understood gambling but the author put a glossary in the back of the book that really helped. The author also took turns putting you in a different character’s head every chapter. You have to be careful and read the name at the beginning of the chapter if you want to follow the story. In my opinion I think it makes the book more interesting. The only let down was the ending. I was wondering what happened to the main character.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Hamilton, OH USA
Last Kiss by Jon Ripslinger
Last Kiss is a thrilling book that tells the tale of Billy O’Reilly. Billy and Lisa Wells have been seeing each other in secret for weeks. After attending Lisa’s eighteenth birthday party, Billy and Lisa meet up again- much to the displeasure of Billy’s best friend, Windy. The next morning, terrible news hits the town; Lisa Wells was found dead in the family manor. All of the evidence gathered points to Billy committing this horrific crime. His case does not improve when one of the guns that was reported stolen from the Wells’ manor is found in Billy’s possession. Together, Billy and Windy set out to discover the truth behind the murder and robbery. And- in the process- uncover some truly terrible secrets about Lisa and her family.
Last Kiss is a very compelling read. While the sentence structure and vocabulary seemed a little mediocre for this age range, the plot of the book was exceptional. It had me sitting on the edge of my seat during the whole book. But, while this book was fantastic, it had a lot of adult content. I do not recommend it for anyone younger than 14.
Content: This book had some language issues, and some of the scenes should not be read by younger readers.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA USA
Last Kiss is a very compelling read. While the sentence structure and vocabulary seemed a little mediocre for this age range, the plot of the book was exceptional. It had me sitting on the edge of my seat during the whole book. But, while this book was fantastic, it had a lot of adult content. I do not recommend it for anyone younger than 14.
Content: This book had some language issues, and some of the scenes should not be read by younger readers.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA USA
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Pretty Tough by Liz Tigelaar
Sixteen-year-old Charlie Brown loves surfing, so when the new soccer coach for the high school asks her to try out for the team, she doesn't know if she will or not. Her sister, eighteen-year-old Krista, loves soccer and has been a part of the soccer team for years, so when she gets the news, she doesn't take it very well. Charlie and her sister are mortal enemies who would do anything to get on the other's nerves. So Charlie decides that joining her sister's soccer team would be the perfect opportunity to do exactly that. Both of the girls want to be the MVP on the team and will do anything to be just that, no matter what the consequences. With only four months till the biggest tournament of the year, the two sisters better make peace between them if they want to take home the victory.
Pretty Tough is a wonderful book that proves that before you can win as a team you first have to communicate as a team. This novel had a lot of drama between the two sisters, which added to the overall quality of this great story. Pretty Tough is told in two very different perspectives, one being Charlie Brown's and the other being in her sister, Krista's. I could really relate to Charlie's intriguing personality and I think that she would be a wonderful person to have for a friend. I think Krista's BFF, Brooke, and her boyfriend, Cam, greatly effected Krista's character, which is why she had such a snobby personality that I didn't overly enjoy. I recommend Pretty Tough to young adult girls who love sports.
There were a few instances where underage drinking and sex were mentioned.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA United States
Pretty Tough is a wonderful book that proves that before you can win as a team you first have to communicate as a team. This novel had a lot of drama between the two sisters, which added to the overall quality of this great story. Pretty Tough is told in two very different perspectives, one being Charlie Brown's and the other being in her sister, Krista's. I could really relate to Charlie's intriguing personality and I think that she would be a wonderful person to have for a friend. I think Krista's BFF, Brooke, and her boyfriend, Cam, greatly effected Krista's character, which is why she had such a snobby personality that I didn't overly enjoy. I recommend Pretty Tough to young adult girls who love sports.
There were a few instances where underage drinking and sex were mentioned.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA United States
Kiki Strike:Inside the Shadow City by Kirsten Miller
Ananka Fishbein is a normal average girl, until she meets Kiki Strike and the rest of the Irregulars. Then her life changes dramatically. She sets out on a journey to map a city beneath New York, discovered by her mysterious friend Kiki. Only she and her friends know about this and they intend to keep it that way. Obviously this city once thrived, but now its only inhabitants are rats. Well, at least, they think that’s right.
Spying and history are some of my favorite topics to read about. Throw in some action thirsty girls and you’ve got yourself a story. I don’t know how in the world Kristen Miller came up with such an amazing story. Once you start reading you are Kiki, Betty, or Oona and you can’t stop reading about their adventures.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: , North Carolina USA
Spying and history are some of my favorite topics to read about. Throw in some action thirsty girls and you’ve got yourself a story. I don’t know how in the world Kristen Miller came up with such an amazing story. Once you start reading you are Kiki, Betty, or Oona and you can’t stop reading about their adventures.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: , North Carolina USA
Kiki Strike:The Empress's Tomb by Kirsten Miller
Oona is acting strange, well stranger than usually. She’s not confiding in anyone and is getting farther and farther away from her friends. When the Irregulars learn that she moved in with her criminal father things go from bad to worse. With more trouble being caused in Shadow City the girls need Oona’s friendship more than ever, but maybe it’s not all Oona’s fault….. The girls must join as one and work together to fix all their problems, but can they do it before it’s too late?
Kiki and her gang are back with a story based around Oona. I have been waiting for this for the longest time ever! I finally got to read it and it was absolutely wonderful! The adventures, romance, spying, and rats are just as good as ever! I hope Kirsten Miller writes more and more, cause I will never be tired of these stories about Kiki and her friends.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: , North Carolina USA
Kiki and her gang are back with a story based around Oona. I have been waiting for this for the longest time ever! I finally got to read it and it was absolutely wonderful! The adventures, romance, spying, and rats are just as good as ever! I hope Kirsten Miller writes more and more, cause I will never be tired of these stories about Kiki and her friends.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: , North Carolina USA
I Is Someone Else by Patrick Cooper
British Stephen dreams of something new. Perhaps even an adventure, but he never expected that he’d be traveling halfway around the world in search of his older brother Rob. This long awaited adventure takes place in 1966, en route to France he takes a long detour through parts of continental Europe, the Middle East, and Southern Asia.. Naturally it was a surprise to find the most beautiful girl in the world telling him that Rob is in Istanbul. Lucky for Stephen, she, Astrid, and Jerry are headed there right now. Stephen is determined not to miss this chance of finding his brother who was thought by his mother to be dead. This leads up to a journey that will not be forgotten. The unveiling of painful past memories, and a battle with his common sense, forces him to make decisions about his sexuality. The path that Stephen chooses to tread is long and filled with danger, whether it be temptation by drugs or hostility from the locals in any of the places he travels. Stephen learns to deal with his past and copes with how he can control his future.
Beginning: Boy goes to study French, forgets France goes for gorgeous girl, ends up in Istanbul. Okay, pretty good. With a feint toward education turns around and votes for the teenage love thing. I’ll face it, I was caught. I soon learned that the boyfriend of Stephen’s beloved crush is a drug dealer. My thoughts turned toward “this is interesting”. I was soon to find out that Jerry’s occupation was not going to be the only reference to drugs, drug dealing, or drug consumption. In fact, it was all the rage in 1966 in the Middle East and Southern Asia. Even parts of Continental Europe had a taste for hashish in the sixties. What disagreed with me the most are the illogical things that Stephen did. There were many moments that I hit my forehead in frustration wondering what would posses anyone to do such a thing. I soon gave up trying to control fictitious characters and chalked up his unwise movements to the drugs. The text is laced with flashbacks to Stephen’s school days. Most of the time these tidbits of background story left me wanting to know what happened next. It wasn’t until the last sixty pages that this thirst was satisfied. For me it also separated the present narrative from the past. That can be both good and a hindrance. Good because it kept things clearly defined and bookmarked your place in either one. This became a bad idea when it was difficult to flow between storylines. I will give Mr. Cooper this: His characters are memorable and this story will not be one that is easily forgotten.
Content: There are many drug references that also include usage my both peripheral and main characters. There are other very intimate scenes of mature content.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Belton, MO USA
Beginning: Boy goes to study French, forgets France goes for gorgeous girl, ends up in Istanbul. Okay, pretty good. With a feint toward education turns around and votes for the teenage love thing. I’ll face it, I was caught. I soon learned that the boyfriend of Stephen’s beloved crush is a drug dealer. My thoughts turned toward “this is interesting”. I was soon to find out that Jerry’s occupation was not going to be the only reference to drugs, drug dealing, or drug consumption. In fact, it was all the rage in 1966 in the Middle East and Southern Asia. Even parts of Continental Europe had a taste for hashish in the sixties. What disagreed with me the most are the illogical things that Stephen did. There were many moments that I hit my forehead in frustration wondering what would posses anyone to do such a thing. I soon gave up trying to control fictitious characters and chalked up his unwise movements to the drugs. The text is laced with flashbacks to Stephen’s school days. Most of the time these tidbits of background story left me wanting to know what happened next. It wasn’t until the last sixty pages that this thirst was satisfied. For me it also separated the present narrative from the past. That can be both good and a hindrance. Good because it kept things clearly defined and bookmarked your place in either one. This became a bad idea when it was difficult to flow between storylines. I will give Mr. Cooper this: His characters are memorable and this story will not be one that is easily forgotten.
Content: There are many drug references that also include usage my both peripheral and main characters. There are other very intimate scenes of mature content.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Belton, MO USA
Monday, July 16, 2007
Skin Hunger (A Resurrection of Magic) by Kathleen Duey
Skin Hunger is a book with two stories taking place generations apart. One story is about Sadima, a magician whose mother died the day she was born, and the "magician" helping her give birth robbed her family. The other is about Hahp, who is the son of a rich merchant who sent him to a wizard school, knowing he may well die. Sadima is approached at age 14 by a wizard named Franklin, asking her to join him and Somiss, his master, in the port city of Limori, where they are working to restore magic to a world where it is despised and feared, and there are many fraud magicians. Three years later, Sadima does travel to Limori to seek out Franklin. When she finds him, she joins him and Somiss, helping around the house and doing other menial tasks. Somiss's fervor for his mission frightens Sadima, but she has fallen in love with Franklin who cannot leave, as he is Somiss's slave. As she realizes the danger she is in with Somiss, whose father despises him, she attempts to persuade Franklin to run off with her. However, he refuses. Then, Sadima follows Franklin to a cave outside Limori. Inside, she finds some of the orphans from the streets trapped in a cage. She questions Franklin, who admits they are using the children, but refuses to help free them, explaining that Somiss will just get more from the city. She decides that there is nothing she can do. One night, men light Somiss's apartment on fire, hoping to catch him. They manage to escape with their lives. They set off into the caves to find the ancient home of magic. Hahp's story begins as he goes to the wizard academy. He is a roommate with Gerrard, a poor orphan who shouldn't be there. In the academy, Hahp and the other boys are starved until they figure out how to work the magic stone that gives them food. Franklin, their teacher, seems to regret their harsh conditions but fears the headmaster, Somiss. Many of the boys die before they can get food. Then, Hahp realizes he can make things other than food with the stone, and he makes a bar of soap to clean himself. He is then given new, clean robes that mean he has moved on. Gerrard steadfastly refuses help from Hahp, but Hahp gives him the soap so he can figure out how to make it himself. Gerrard makes soap and is given his own new robes. They are set to new tasks that none of the others have to do. Meanwhile, the boys have to memorize songs in a different language and recite them, and until they do, they will starve again. Hahp and Gerrard finally agree to work together to get through all of the tests set before them.
Skin Hunger by Kathleen Duey is a great book for all young adults. It earns an eight out of ten from me. The way the two stories of Hahp and Sadima are woven together makes it far more interesting. It is similar to the book Holes in that one story is about a good boy and a poor orphan who build a friendship to overcome the troubles set before them, and that it has another story in the past that is closely connected to it. It was a bit boring at times, but the interesting parts made up for that. Another way it is set apart from other stories is that the magic is so much different than in any other book.
Content: Frightening, death
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA United States
Skin Hunger by Kathleen Duey is a great book for all young adults. It earns an eight out of ten from me. The way the two stories of Hahp and Sadima are woven together makes it far more interesting. It is similar to the book Holes in that one story is about a good boy and a poor orphan who build a friendship to overcome the troubles set before them, and that it has another story in the past that is closely connected to it. It was a bit boring at times, but the interesting parts made up for that. Another way it is set apart from other stories is that the magic is so much different than in any other book.
Content: Frightening, death
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, PA United States
No Talking by Andrew Clements
Mark and Lyndsey are both fifth graders at the same elementary school. Mark thinks of Lyndsey as a blabber mouth, whos head would blow off if she had to be quiet for five minutes. Lyndsey thinks of Mark as a boy who thinks he is better than all fifth grade girls, but really is the same. One day, Mark decides to imitate Ghandi, and goes to school one day with the goal of not saying one word to anyone, including his friends. The inconveince of this for Lyndsey is that Mark and Lyndsey were partners for a project that had to presented on this very same day. Mark wiggles his way out of giving the presentation, and has done quiet well with achieving his goal untill fifth grade lunch, where he makes Lyndsey a challenge. The challenge is this: Mark and all the fifth grade boys challenge Lyndsey and all the fifth grade girls to two complete days of silence. There were rules however. They were allowed to answer teachers, but with only three words. Also, when the students went home, they had to use the honor system, and honestly report any talking done outside of school. Each word spoke was worth a point. After the two days were up, the gender with the least amount of talking outside the rules won. The signifigance of this was that this specific group of fifth graders were known as the Unshushables. They had a reputation of not knowing when or how to be quiet. As the contest goes on, the teachers and principle become relieved of the noise, but irritated from the short answers and little participation in class. The principle tries to but an end to it, but becomes convenced herself, through Mark, that actually this silence is quiet a good idea.
This book is fabolous for the reading age that it is wrote for. It teaches a great lesson of what some quiet time can actually do for a person. It also teaches the fifth grade girls and the boys in the story, that really, neither one is better than the other. They also learn that although there is such thing as talking to much, that talking really is almost an essential thing for life. Friendships are built, and trust and responsibility are displayed throughout the book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Athens, Ohio
This book is fabolous for the reading age that it is wrote for. It teaches a great lesson of what some quiet time can actually do for a person. It also teaches the fifth grade girls and the boys in the story, that really, neither one is better than the other. They also learn that although there is such thing as talking to much, that talking really is almost an essential thing for life. Friendships are built, and trust and responsibility are displayed throughout the book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Athens, Ohio
Spells and Sleeping Bags by Sarah Mlynowski
Rachel Weinstein for what seems like forever, has watched her mom and little sister Miri show off their magic. But now in the third installment of Sarah Mlynowski’s young adult series…………….. Rachel has powers! Plus as an added bonus Rachel and Miri will be going to summer camp, where also Raf will conveniently will be going. But to have the summer of her life, she’ll have to fix some problems.
Have to zap back all of her clothes(little accident, no biggie)
Get out of baby level in swimming
Bathe in mosquito repellent(won’t leave her alone)
And deal with the backstabber in her cabin
Sounds like fun!
I chose this book to review because it is the third book in a series that I love. But with this one, I was a little disappointed. I didn’t have the same style as the first two books had. Rachel wasn’t as sassy and kind as usual. Also the ending was not what I expected would make the story a little better. But I did love how I and the readers found out what really went down between Rachel’s mom and her Aunt Sasha.
Content: innapropriate language
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, IL
Have to zap back all of her clothes(little accident, no biggie)
Get out of baby level in swimming
Bathe in mosquito repellent(won’t leave her alone)
And deal with the backstabber in her cabin
Sounds like fun!
I chose this book to review because it is the third book in a series that I love. But with this one, I was a little disappointed. I didn’t have the same style as the first two books had. Rachel wasn’t as sassy and kind as usual. Also the ending was not what I expected would make the story a little better. But I did love how I and the readers found out what really went down between Rachel’s mom and her Aunt Sasha.
Content: innapropriate language
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, IL
The Invisible by Mats Wahl
Hilmer Eriksson is invisible, no one can see him or hear him. He soon learns that he is missing, but he has no idea ware his body lies. Hilmer must stay close to detective Fors in order to solve this mystery. But, even if he finds his body who can he tell if no one can hear him? It is a struggle to save his own life. Slowly Hilmer is dieing. Can he solve the mystery before his death?
This book is full of suspense and mystery. It is a great ghost story and has many police investigations. The Invisible will keep you on your toes, you will not be able to set it down. However, I was disappointed in the ending of the book. I expected a larger twist and more excitement in the end.
Content: This book is about a murder and it is slightly gory.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Lemoore, CA USA
This book is full of suspense and mystery. It is a great ghost story and has many police investigations. The Invisible will keep you on your toes, you will not be able to set it down. However, I was disappointed in the ending of the book. I expected a larger twist and more excitement in the end.
Content: This book is about a murder and it is slightly gory.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Lemoore, CA USA
Red Rage by Brigitte Blobel
Her mom is going crazy, her dad is an abusive alcoholic; its no wonder that Mara has anger management problems. But when she starts to work at a child care center, Mara connects with the kids there and meets a guy named Tim. But one day Mara comes home to find her mom gone. After that, her life starts to spiral down out of control. And when the unspeakable happens, Mara decides she needs to get help and take responsibility for her actions. No matter what the cost.
Red Rage wasn't what I expected it to be. Occasionally hard to follow, I had difficulty understanding what was going on. But by the middle all was flowing smoothly, and I was caught up in the book. The ending was predictable, but it was a good book to read nonetheless. I wouldn't say it was my favorite, but I have read far worse books.
language and child abuse
Reviewer Age:12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona Unites States of America
Red Rage wasn't what I expected it to be. Occasionally hard to follow, I had difficulty understanding what was going on. But by the middle all was flowing smoothly, and I was caught up in the book. The ending was predictable, but it was a good book to read nonetheless. I wouldn't say it was my favorite, but I have read far worse books.
language and child abuse
Reviewer Age:12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona Unites States of America
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Lily Dale: Awakening by Wendy Corsi Staub
“...The only way we’ll learn the truth is to dredge the lake!”
These words keep reoccurring in Calla’s dream, and when she wakes up, its always 3:17. These words hold the secret to the falling out of Calla’s mother and Grandmother. And as Calla spends time in Lily Dale after her mothers death, Calla comes to realize that Lily Dale is a town for Psychic Mediums. Even her own grandmother, Odelia, has the gift of being able to sense presences that are near. And after Calla starts to see things, things that no one else can, Calla realizes that she too may have to gift. And her being able to sense things, may be able to help solve the mystery of a kidnaped girl, who disappeared over six months. But what Calla wants the most is to be able to speak with her own deceased relative, her mom.
This book is completely different from the ones I have reviewed in the past. This mystery is suspenseful, yet also has romance and drama. It will appeal to many different readers, of all ages. Wendi Corsi Staub realizes what it feels like to lose someone close to you, and she puts that raw emotion into her writing. This book is the perfect type to curl up with an ice cold lemonade on those hot summer days, and is a great pool side read. You will find few that don’t fall in love with Staub's books.
Content: language
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona Uniteds States of America
These words keep reoccurring in Calla’s dream, and when she wakes up, its always 3:17. These words hold the secret to the falling out of Calla’s mother and Grandmother. And as Calla spends time in Lily Dale after her mothers death, Calla comes to realize that Lily Dale is a town for Psychic Mediums. Even her own grandmother, Odelia, has the gift of being able to sense presences that are near. And after Calla starts to see things, things that no one else can, Calla realizes that she too may have to gift. And her being able to sense things, may be able to help solve the mystery of a kidnaped girl, who disappeared over six months. But what Calla wants the most is to be able to speak with her own deceased relative, her mom.
This book is completely different from the ones I have reviewed in the past. This mystery is suspenseful, yet also has romance and drama. It will appeal to many different readers, of all ages. Wendi Corsi Staub realizes what it feels like to lose someone close to you, and she puts that raw emotion into her writing. This book is the perfect type to curl up with an ice cold lemonade on those hot summer days, and is a great pool side read. You will find few that don’t fall in love with Staub's books.
Content: language
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona Uniteds States of America
Friday, July 13, 2007
The Pilgrims of Rayne (Pendragon) by D. J. MacHale
In this book, Bobby Pendragon uses the flume to travel to 1st Earth with Courtney. When they get there, they go to the Manhattan Tower. Bobby leaves Courtney with Dodger so that they can search for Mark, and he leaves for the territory of Ibara. When Bobby gets to Ibara, he is attacked by bees and becomes unconscious for several days. When he regains consciousness, he is arrested for being an outsider and is taken to see the Tribunal. He is released and told to hang out with Siry, the Traveler of Ibara. Siry takes him into the jungle and introduces him to the Jakills, a bunch of rebel teenagers. The Jakills have plans to escape from the island, and they expect Bobby to help them steal a boat to do so. They successfully steal the ship, and they travel to the city of Rubity. There they are ambushed by Flighters. Siry and Bobby believe that they are the only two to survive the attack. They go back to the island to warn the Tribunal of an attack from Saint Dane, the ultimate bad guy. Bobby decides to throw out the rules, and starts mixing the territories. He comes back with a few things from three different territories. Alder comes back with him, and they start thinking about how to beat Saint Dane. They come up with a plan, and defeat Saint Dane and his army. Afterwards, Bobby sends Siry and Alder away, and then blows up the flume, trapping Saint Dane and himself on Ibara. While all this is happening on Ibara, Courtney and Dodger are searching for Mark on 1st Earth. They discover that Mark boards the Queen Mary and is killed. They arrive on the Queen Mary as stowaways and begin searching for Mark. They find him and convince him that he needs to return to 2nd Earth with Courtney.
First off, this book was so good, I stayed up REALLY late to finish it. One of my favorite characters was Courtney, because she was always ready with some sassy comeback or retort. I was very sad about the ending, but I still liked it because Bobby wasn’t thinking about just himself, and he finally realized that he could be defeated. This book was just as good as, maybe even better than, the rest of the series. I learned that no matter who you are, you can still be defeated, so you shouldn’t get really full of yourself. The vocabulary and content used was appropriate for teenagers. This author is a superb writer, and I love his style. He regularly uses plenty of detail. I don’t see any way the author could improve this book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Highland, MI USA
First off, this book was so good, I stayed up REALLY late to finish it. One of my favorite characters was Courtney, because she was always ready with some sassy comeback or retort. I was very sad about the ending, but I still liked it because Bobby wasn’t thinking about just himself, and he finally realized that he could be defeated. This book was just as good as, maybe even better than, the rest of the series. I learned that no matter who you are, you can still be defeated, so you shouldn’t get really full of yourself. The vocabulary and content used was appropriate for teenagers. This author is a superb writer, and I love his style. He regularly uses plenty of detail. I don’t see any way the author could improve this book.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Highland, MI USA
Quantum Prophesy: The Awakening by Michael Carroll
Ten years ago, superheroes roamed the earth, bringing evil to justice and saving humanity from itself. But in a battle against a supervillain, Ragnarok, all the superheroes lost their powers and were effectively lost forever. But now, it seems Danny and Colin, two best friends, have abilities that only superheroes could. Caught up in a whirlwind of conspiracy, the two and their "superhero" parents are kidnapped and sent to America, where Colin escapes and is set against not only trained soldiers but the mystery that is America. Danny and the adults find themselves in a secure bunker in California, where Danny must keep the villains at bay until Colin can come to save him. Colin locates the two superheroes who didn't lose their powers ten years ago, a superhero with no special powers to lose, and a telepath who was miracurously unaffected. Together, they try to rescue Danny and the others. But both Danny and Colin's struggles are rife with obstacles and betrayal, and they wonder who they can trust, and how they can possibly triumph over evil.
The book was a nice quick read, but not something to take seriously. The language was clumsy, and the plot was predictable. But it had its moments. There were times when the characters truly shone, and the narrative sparkled with clever, lively language. However, the majority of it was sluggish, and the action scenes were too short and unrealistic. The book had potential, but it was never realized.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Overland Park, KS United States
The book was a nice quick read, but not something to take seriously. The language was clumsy, and the plot was predictable. But it had its moments. There were times when the characters truly shone, and the narrative sparkled with clever, lively language. However, the majority of it was sluggish, and the action scenes were too short and unrealistic. The book had potential, but it was never realized.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Overland Park, KS United States
The Campfire Crush by Cylin Busby
You are finally a junior counselor at Camp Butterfield and can’t wait for all the new experiences you are about to encounter. From hiking to horseback riding to flirting with a cute guy, there is always something to look forward to. Sometimes though there are snakes to worry about, poison ivy to watch out for, and paths that could lead you off course and get you kicked out of camp, so be careful! This is a choose-your-own-boyfriend book where you get to make the decisions, which could either lead you to true love or realizing that he’s not the one after all. With over twenty different endings to choose from, you are bound to find the right guy for you!
The Camp Fire Crush is the first book in the Date Him or Dump Him series written by Cylin Busby. I thought it was really cool how The Campfire Crush was created like the Choose Your Own Adventure series, which are really fun to read. This is an extremely quick, and enjoyable summer read with unpredictable endings. I think that the author had a great idea for this awesome series that allows you to choose your own boyfriend. It’s neat how if you don’t like the decision you made, you can go back and make a different one. If you enjoyed this series, then don’t miss the next two releases called Ski Trip Trouble and The Dance Dilemma.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA USA
The Camp Fire Crush is the first book in the Date Him or Dump Him series written by Cylin Busby. I thought it was really cool how The Campfire Crush was created like the Choose Your Own Adventure series, which are really fun to read. This is an extremely quick, and enjoyable summer read with unpredictable endings. I think that the author had a great idea for this awesome series that allows you to choose your own boyfriend. It’s neat how if you don’t like the decision you made, you can go back and make a different one. If you enjoyed this series, then don’t miss the next two releases called Ski Trip Trouble and The Dance Dilemma.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA USA
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