Lorenzo and the Turncoat by Lila and Rick Guzman
Lorenzo and the Turncoat, by Lila and Rick Guzman, is about Lorenzo Bannister, a former member of the Continental Army, now a doctor. The book starts out as a British general, Robert Hawthorne, is throwing a party in honor of the British Army's latest victory. In the middle of the party, a messenger bursts in, telling Hawthorne that his cousin has been hung for treason by Colonel Galvez, leader of the Spanish Army, in New Orleans. Hawthorne sets out for New Orleans on a mission to clear his family name. Meanwhile, Dr. Lorenzo finishes a pleasant lunch with his
fiancee, Eugenie, and heads to work. When he arrives, he meets with a most curious patient, Charles Peel. Charles has been having strange migraines. After prescribing Charles some "medicine," Lorenzo walks home as a hurricane is starting to brew. Unfortunately Lorenzo is approached by Colonel Galvez, who notifies him that Eugenie has been kidnapped! Will Hawthorne clear his family name? Will Lorenzo rescue Eugenie? Read Lorenzo and the Turncoat to find out!
I thought Lorenzo and the Turncoat was a great book even though it is not of the usual Sci-Fi/Fantasy genre that I usually enjoy. The book was filled with historical events, times, locations, and people, which was interesting. The only thing I did not care for in the book was the excessive detail in places. But all in all it was a really good book. I would recommend Lorenzo and the Turncoat to anyone who enjoys reading about the Revolutionary War or who liked the book Octavian Nothing: Traitor to the Nation, by M. T. Anderson.
There were some references to sex and sexually transmitted diseases that parents (or teachers) might want to be aware of.
Reviewer Age:12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Saugerties, NY USA
Lorenzo and the Turncoat by Lila and Rick Guzman
Lorenzo and the Turncoat, by Lila and Rick Guzman, is about Lorenzo Bannister, a former member of the Continental Army, now a doctor. The book starts out as a British general, Robert Hawthorne, is throwing a party in honor of the British Army's latest victory. In the middle of the party, a messenger bursts in, telling Hawthorne that his cousin has been hung for treason by Colonel Galvez, leader of the Spanish Army, in New Orleans. Hawthorne sets out for New Orleans on a mission to clear his family name. Meanwhile, Dr. Lorenzo finishes a pleasant lunch with his
fiancee, Eugenie, and heads to work. When he arrives, he meets with a most curious patient, Charles Peel. Charles has been having strange migraines. After prescribing Charles some "medicine," Lorenzo walks home as a hurricane is starting to brew. Unfortunately Lorenzo is approached by Colonel Galvez, who notifies him that Eugenie has been kidnapped! Will Hawthorne clear his family name? Will Lorenzo rescue Eugenie? Read Lorenzo and the Turncoat to find out!
I thought Lorenzo and the Turncoat was a great book even though it is not of the usual Sci-Fi/Fantasy genre that I usually enjoy. The book was filled with historical events, times, locations, and people, which was interesting. The only thing I did not care for in the book was the excessive detail in places. But all in all it was a really good book. I would recommend Lorenzo and the Turncoat to anyone who enjoys reading about the Revolutionary War or who liked the book Octavian Nothing: Traitor to the Nation, by M. T. Anderson.
There were some references to sex and sexually transmitted diseases that parents (or teachers) might want to be aware of.
Reviewer Age:12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Saugerties, NY USA
Kiss and Blog by Alyson Noel
Winter and Sloane have been best friends FOREVER. They grew up as neighbors and even when Sloane moved to a different area of town, they still maintained their constant friendship. The summer before sophomore year, both girls decide they are tired of being at the C table, they want to be popular; they want to join the A table girls. As the year begins and Sloane is becoming more and more popular, Winter realizes she has lost the opportunity to become popular and she has also lost her best friend. Struggling through, Winter finds herself with a new group--people she can really call friends. Kiss and Blog by Alyson Noel is a novel about friendship and love and what is worth fighting for.
A fun and easy to read book, Kiss and Blog is the perfect summer novel. A book filled with drama and organic smoothies, Winter is a great protagonist, a realistic and free-loving girl. She takes you along for a wild ride during the fall and winter of her sophomore year and you will find yourself turing each page in anticipation. Although not a "metally challenging" book, Kiss and Blog is a great book to blow off some steam and hit the beach.
Content:2This book contains minor drinking, smoking, and some strong language is used.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Concord, Massachusetts United States
Bad Girls Club by Judy Gregerson
In a family torn apart by a mom’s mental illness, Destiny and Cassidy are the ones who have to suffer. All is calm when their mom is in her right sense. But now she is increasingly becoming more and more delusional. And memories continue to haunt Destiny. Memories she had been ordered to forget. Destiny needs to get out of the house before she goes crazy; the darkness is coming for her. It’s already grabbed Cassidy, and Destiny doesn’t know what to do to get the darkness to relinquish its hold. She sees the effects that it has on her mother. And it isn’t good. Will they make it out of the house alive? Or will they be prisoners of the darkness forever?
I can use one word to describe this book. Shocking. The fact that the dad won’t believe that any thing is wrong is just truly horrifying. And the story that happens at Crater Lake is just… Shocking. That is the only word I can say to describe this book. But Judy Gregerson also wrote this book very well, making it even better. I never wanted to stop reading this book, and stayed up until midnight to finish this book because it was so wonderful. Perfect for a summer read, and perfect for anyone to read. I think it will appeal to anyone. One of the best I have ever read.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, Arizona United States of America
Quantum Prophesy: The Awakening by Michael Carroll
Ten years ago all the superhumans disappeared fighting Ragnarök and his super battle tank. In Great Britain on the tenth anniversary of Mystery Day marking the day when all superhumans disappeared Colin Wagner and his friends Danny Cooper and Brian McDonald are hanging out when Danny moves inhumanly fast to save Brian's sister from being hit by a bus. Colin is shocked when he finds out about his parents past and that they were some of the most famous superheoroes along with Danny's dad. Soon after finding out that all superhumans retired or disappeared because Ragnarök created a power damper machinge Colin's powers start to manifest. Kidnapped along with Danny and his parents Colin is sent to Florida where he begins to control his new found powers of superhearing and superstrength. Escaping form his captors Colin is stranded all alone in Florida where he meets up with a car thief who helps him meet the former superhero and friend of his parents' Paragon. Trying to rescue his parents and his best friend from rerising villains and old heoroes Colin has to cross a foreign country all by himself.
Quantum Prophesy: The Awakening by Michael Carroll is a very good book. Not many books except fo comics recently actually had specific super heroes, normally they are just the protagonist vs. antagonist. I enjoyed the twists in the plot that were unexpected and the not completely obvious characterization like when Victor Cross was being introduced the author said how he typed really fast and the keys were almost all worn out except for delete and backspace. This book is good for mainly guys because it has some plot to it and has a few action/fighting scenes. I also like how they have unusual superpowers most of the time there is superstrength and flight, but in the book Danny Cooper slows down his perspective of time. Overall I really enjoyed reading Quantum Prophesy: The Awakening by Michael Carroll.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Eastchester, New York United States of America
Dragons From The Sea by Judson Roberts
The book Dragons from the Sea is set in the year 845. The main character is a "beardless youth" named Halfdan. Halfdan really wants to become a soldier on a ship and go raiding, but many people don't take him seriously because of his youth. Then he meets a captain of a very fine ship and impresses him with the shooting of his bow. The captain agrees to let him join his crew. Halfdan then learns that all the ships and soldiers are going south to the Franks to make war. Will he prove his worth to the rest of the crew in Frankia?
With the book referring to the Vikings I really enjoyed its fictional and historical values. The book was exciting up to the very last page. I definitely thought it was good the book was written in first person. Since it had only one main protagonist you were able to understand his feelings and get to know him better. If you are in to the medieval set books you'll like this. You can also check out the author's website, www.strongbowsaga.com, to find out more about the Vikings and the times they lived in.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania U.S.A.
Life As It Comes by Anne-Laure Bondoux
Fifteen year old Mado is in a tragic situation. She has lost both her parents in a car accident and now lives in the hands of her twenty year old sister, Patty. Mado has always been more responsible than Patty and the two sisters balance each other--fun and loving, responsible and hardworking. Life has no true direction, the sisters are just attempting to move through their loss. That is, until Patty tells Mado she's pregnant. Issues must be taken care of and the two sisters head off the the country to spend some time away from Paris before Patty gives birth. There they fall in love with two Dutch boys and Mado lets loose and has fun. The peaceful times come to a close when Patty's baby arrives. This story is about a young girl who is influenced by the circle of life much more than anyone around her. A story about love, death, and peace, Mado juggles the things in her life that are the most important.
This book was great! Mado was a wonderful character, she discovers the true nature of living. Anne-Laure Bondoux brings her readers along for a wild ride in an unexpected adventure of two young girls trying to survive on their own. I couldn't put the book down--I was intrigued from the start. Patty was a fascinating character whom you found yourself loving and hating--just like any older sister, and Bondoux created wonderful and beautiful images of the French countryside in my mind. It was a great read, I will hope everyone gives it a try!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Concord, Massachusetts United States
Skate by Michael Harmon
Morrison High in Spokane, Washington has no place for anyone but the sports teams. Ian McDermott is a punk skater. His little brother Sammy is a fourth grader who is slow in school and doesn't do well. Ian has to keep up in school and care for Sammy everyday. When Ian was four years old, his father left his home. Then, Sammy was still developing in his mother, and she was starting to smoke crack. They struggle to simply eat because their mother leaves no money for them, even on the rare days she is home. Finally, when Ian punches his gym teacher for being a jerk, they run away. They try to run away to see their father in Walla Walla, Washington. When they meet him he sets things straight for both Sammy and Ian. However there are many challenges in between.
I absolutely loved this book. Michael Harmon started his first book off extremely well. The characters show so much feeling, thought, and emotion. Skate was a very easy read and a page turner. This book reminded me of Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt. They both had kids that were running away due to their mothers and encountered many struggles along the way. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read about odd kids fitting in with others or adventures.
This book mentions drugs, violence, and has some swearing in it.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States of America
The Choice by Gloria Skurzynski
Ever since Corgan escaped his mortal enemy, Brigand, by fleeing the Florida domed city, he's felt haunted. He's haunted by the fact that Brigand is still in power in Florida, torturing innocent citizens (including Corgan's friend Thebos), but above all by the bitter memory that he ran away from Brigand rather than staying to fight. Corgan believes he mad the right choice at the time, but now he wants to face Brigand in one final battle. His passengers in the stolen zero-gravity spaceship- Sharla, Ananda, and Cyborg- have different ideas. Tired of arguing, Corgan chooses to land the ship in the only place he has ever been happy. But even there disaster follows him, until Sharla reveals a secret that gives him hope-hope that he can once again become the hero he was meant to be. This time, Corgan intends to stand up to Brigand, win or lose, in a fight to the death. This Thrilling sequel and conclusion to the Virtual War Chronologs has been eagerly awaited by Gloria Skurzynski's many fans.
The Choice by Gloria Skurzynski follows the story of Corgan and his companions on their quest to defeat his best friend's evil twin brother. All the the loose ends are neatly severed and most questions are left answered in a nice finale way. This book is pretty interesting and nice for a final book. My only complaint is that this book is basically a 200 page filler. A large portion of the book the main characters spend on a deserted island trying to resolve a minor minor minor problem that has no consequences whatsoever to the final outcome of the book. Another large portion of the book is reserved for the petty talk the main characters have after they save the world, which is really really tempting to skip. Another part of the book the characters spend time recalling all the events that took place in the previous book which, if you are reading this book, you apparently have some prior knowledge of the other books in the series. Wait, I almost forgot similar to how the author almost forgot to add the one page final action scene in where Corgan defeats his greatest adversary.
Overall this book could have been squeezed into the third book and nothing would have been lost. For those who have read the other books in the Virtual War series I would recommend this book to you. For those who have not read the previous book in the series I would not recommend this series book to you, but in all fairness you cannot rate a whole series based on only one book. In my opinion the Virtual War Chronologs in a whole is very much worth reading.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Starkville, Mississippi United States of America
Skybreaker by Kenneth Oppel
Matt Cruse, now a part of the Airship Academy, is sent on a week-long voyage with the Flotsam, a dirty ship with a sullen crew and a mentally-unstable captain. The captain orders the ship into a raging storm, and as they plow through, they get a glimpse of the famous Hyperion, a ship known to have untold wealth aboard. Matt plots the coordinates and when he returns home, he sets off with Kate de Vries and a mysterious gypsy girl to recover the ship. In the air they meet deadly pirates searching for the Hyperion as well, and dangerous air beasts. With only his friends and his wits to help him, Matt must beat the pirates, survive the beasts of the sky, and sort out his confused feelings for the girls.
This story handles characters very well. Each of the characters seem real and relatable, even if the particular character was a villain. The conflicts they encounter are plausible, even though the setting itself is not real, and the descriptions are well-crafted. The story moves along at a fast pace, keeping your eyes glued to the pages long after midnight. If you read Airborn, this story enriches the characters and completes the previous tale, but Skybreaker stands well alone, each reference to Airborn sufficiently explained. The romance is not overly dramatic or cliche, and Oppel keeps the reader aware that Matt is just a boy; he has no superpowers and the things he does are plausible because of it. Matt is a character that everyone admires, because he struggles with life but never backs down. This story is a great read, and something everyone should have on their shelves.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Overland Park, Kansas United States
The Red Shoes by Ursula Dubosarsky
Matilda, a young girl of age six, and her sisters Elizabeth and Frances are the stars of The Red Shoe, a novel written by Ursula Dubosarsky. At the beginning of the story, Frances reads Matilda a fairytale about a young girl who was not allowed to wear a pair of beautiful red shoes. Throughout the novel that absence of freedom is portrayed as the young girls describe their mother , father, and uncle. Their mother is a pretty woman lonely in the absence of their father--and their uncle always seems to be around for her. Their father, distraught by events he witnessed during World War II is always away at sea or changed and different. As the story of the three sisters unravels the effects of the greater events occuring around the world appear to have a strong influence on the life of one small family.
I disliked this book. The characters were simple and enjoyable, however I found the story very confusing. There were newspaper articles at the beginning of each chapter that didn't appear to really contribute to the story much. Overall, although a fine written book, I came away with a confused idea of the plot and storyline. I may have missed the point but the story was not clear-cut enough for me to have understood it. I recommend that you give it a try and see for yourself.
There is mention of suicide in this story.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Concord, Massachusetts United States
The Unrivalled Spangles by Karen Wallace
The two Spangles sisters, Ellen and Lucy (known by their stage names of Serephina Scarletta and Sapphire Scarletta) are both completely different from each other. They're both circus riders, but Lucy longs for attention and the crowd's adoration, whereas Ellen would prefer life as a governess and gets no pleasure out of circus life. When two young men walk into the sisters' lives, everything will change, and soon Ellen is burdened by more secrets and lies than she can handle.
THE UNRIVALLED SPANGLES had an intriguing premise, but sadly it failed to deliver. Very disappointing. I had next to no sympathy with the main character, Ellen, and I was constantly thinking that the story would've been much more interesting if told from the view point of Lucy, instead. The writing wasn't particularly good (another disappointment, after reading the well-crafted book WENDY by the same author). Perhaps I would pick up another book by the author sometime, but this one held no magic for me.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 2
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Moscow, ID USA
The Band: Trading Guys by Debra Garfinkle
Tracie- She has the most perfect life. A fantastic boyfriend, acceptance to Yale, and a totally awesome band. Everything changes once the new guy comes and blows her away. Mark-Things are going great for him. His girlfriend Sienna is in the band with him and the band is finally going somewhere. But when Lily, the exotic new lead singer catches his attention, he may find himself doing something different Sienna-Her and her boyfriend have done everything for the band. They write songs, book gigs, and still find time to make out. But she finds that she is becoming more and more hateful towards Lily. The band is about to make it big. Everything is going great with everyone, until one night at the beach, when one question changes everything. “Just for fun, why don’t we trade boyfriends and girlfriends?”
The Band Trading Guys, for me was a fun read. It was similar to a soap opera. When everything is going fine, just one question changes everything. When I first started reading, I had a lot of ideas of what was going to happen and who with. But when I finished I found that none of my ideas matched up to the plot. I would defiantly recommend this book for anyone looking for a little drama.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Minooka, Illinois
A Swift Pure Cry by Siobhan Dowd
When 15-year-old Shell’s mam died, her family was messed up. Her father started to drink whiskey every night, her little siblings are not acting well, and Shell is in on a bad group at school. Then, Father Rose, the new priest, comes and her whole world changes. She can feel her mother’s spirit again and truly believes in God! Later, the most horrible thing happens, Shell gets pregnant and the babies father mysteriously went away to America, leaving Ireland and Shell completely behind. Shell births her baby, and then gets caught up in the biggest murder mystery her little own has ever seen!
This was an awesome and touching book from start to finish! I absolutely loved it! The way that Dowd portrayed the characters and made them seem so real was just amazing! This is also a sad story so if you want sad, this is the right book for you! Some of the dialect was confusing but it was astounding. Thumbs up to Siobhan Dowd!
Content: There was a lot of talk about sex and had a woman having birth to a child. it was faithbased also!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensbug, USA
Lurulu by Jack Vance
Lurulu is an account of the adventures of the Glicca, a space freighter, and its unforgettable crew. In each of the eccentric vignettes, the crew encounters fascinating natives and their strange cultures. Captain Malfoor tracks down Loy Tremaine on the beautiful planet Fluter. Tremaine has killed Malfoor's father and kidnapped his mother, in addition to upsetting the puritanical Flauts, the inhabitants of Fluter. After successfully apprehending the culprit, Malfoor and his crew head off to various other ports, meeting ferocious acrobats on Blenkinsop, reclaiming stolen cargo on Star Home, and enduring other such adventures as they ship cargo across space. As they travel, the crew discusses 'lurulu,' a term that takes on a slightly different meaning for each character, and for the reader as well. In the spirit of Gulliver's Travels, this story is a critique on society, while being coy in narration and sharp in dialogue.
The story was captivating, but some of the dialogue seemed staged. Despite that, I enjoyed the story and thought that the tongue-in-cheek moments and the politically-incorrect statements added a certain charm to the otherwise simple narrative. The main characters were interesting, though the similarities between names made it hard to follow occasionally. Because Lurulu is a sequel, it felt a little distant from the reader, because the character interactions were taken for granted, but with an subtle reference to previous journeys I was not privy too. This made reading it a little frustrating, and perhaps made the characters seem flat and one-dimensional. At times, the story would lapse from light-hearted gallantry to solemn, metaphysical conversation, and this made the characters more realistic than if the story had remained on the superficial level. Jack Vance did a good job of creating realistic settings, though the situations were ridiculous (although sometimes that seemed to be his intention). Overall, this story was intriguing and a good book to reread.
Reviewer Age:16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Overland Park, Kansas United States
Louisianna's Song by Kerry Madden
Livy Two and her family are back with even more excitement and drama. She has had to grow up fast! With her dad still recovering from his traumatic car accident, Emmett working in Ghost Town in the Sky, and money getting tighter and tighter, she really has no choice. Things will get better, they have to... Louisiana (Louise) is a big part of this story, too. In the last year, she has sprouted and now is the focal point of horrible mockery and teasing from children at school. Fortunately, Louise can go to her artistry for comfort and reassurance. As their family works hard to keep everything and everyone alive, a queen is crowned, fairy huts are made, trips are taken and the whole Weems family works intensely to get money in the “Everything Box".
Livy Two continues to follow her dream of song writing and through out the book makes-up absolutely beautiful songs! I enjoyed imagining what they “really” sounded like in my head. I liked the feel of the story and like I said in my review for Gentle’s Holler (Kerry’s first book), I really want to visit some of these places!!! Kerry Madden does it again by writing another “heartwarming” book. Stay tuned for the third installment of the Maggie Valley trilogy….
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 8
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer State and Country: ID, USA
Marked by PC Cast and Kristin Cast
Zoey Redbird is an absolutely normal girl with a best friend and an almost-boyfriend, until she gets marked. One day, the tracker comes for her and marks her sending her to the House of Night, the vampyre school. She gets scared and runs home only to find that her parents are in a fright and then she runs to her Grandma Redbird’s. She ends up falling unconscious and goes to see the goddess, Nyx, who puts a special mark on Zoey. When Zoey finally makes it to the House of Night, she is a complete outsider because of the strange mark, that is until the whole school gets overturned and Zoey has to help save it.
This is truly one of the best books I have ever read. I couldn’t even put it down to go to sleep! I loved how Cast actually made it sound like a teenager, not an older person trying to sound like a teenager. This book shows the ancient struggle between good and evil, in a way that we can all understand. Cast made an amazing bunch of characters; from Damien the gay guy, to Erik the sweet hottie! I loved this book and everything in it! I can’t wait for the next!
There is some talk of sex and mentions about a girl giving a guy a blow job.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, USA
The Friskative Dog by Susan Straight
Sharron is fourth grader who is in love with a stuffed dog named Friskitive. This is the dog her daddy gave her when she was in first grade. Her daddy is a SWIFT trucker and goes on lots of runs. One day, he goes on a run to Alabama and doesn’t come back. A year later, his daughter is still upset, and still in love with her dog as the present fourth grader. Everyone makes fun of Sharron for thinking this dog is real. One day, her dog goes missing, just like her father.
This was an awesome book. Definitely an easy read for advanced readers. It is about the struggle of a little girl through her time of need, facing things, she shouldn’t have to face. It was very sad when Sharron lost Friskitive, and threatened to make me cry. I hope everyone finds it as moving as I did.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 7
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, USA
The Raven League by Alex Simmons and Bill McCay
Archie Wiggins is a boy just trying to fit in. He was just kicked out of a gang called the Baker Street Irregulars. These kids have always helped Sherlock Holmes and Archie has never felt worse. Then all of a sudden, the famous detective himself, Sherlock Holmes, goes missing. It is up to Archie and his new friends, the Raven League, to help find Holmes.
The book, the Raven League, was a good mystery story and has many plot twists. The characters are well defined and their personalities shine through the story. The character dialogue greatly exhibits their emotions and feelings. Some of the actions of the characters lacked details but other than that, it was a good book. I would recommend this book to any mystery-novel reader under the age of 13 who is looking for surprises.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 6
Reviewer Age: 14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania Chambersburg
Inside Girl by J. Minter
Normal by day, famous by night is how fourteen-year-old Flan Flood is living her life. She has decided she needs a change in her life, and going to a public high school instead of the usual private one she went to would be the perfect solution. Flan’s parents are still away on vacation so she and her older brother, the famous Patch Flood, are left at home to fend for themselves. When her three celebrity friends Sara-Beth Benny, Philippa, and Liesel all start having tragedies in their own lives they decide to stay at Flan’s house for a while. Flan has to keep secret the fact that her superstar friends are staying with her because of fear of the paparazzi finding them. She doesn’t tell anyone about her popularity and how she goes to the hottest clubs at night with her famous friends while, during the day, she acts like a typical teenager who likes to hang out with her normal peers. Bennett, her boyfriend, invites her to a party at his apartment and against her better judgment, she decides to go. She had been doing such a wonderful job of keeping her true identity confidential until an unexpected guest reveals whom she truly is. How will Flan be able to explain this shocking truth to her new school friends who loved and trusted her?
Every teen girl who loves mild romance, drama, and real life novels should read this fantastic, one-of-a-kind story, ASAP! J. Minter is an amazing author who really understands the life of teen girls. I loved this book and constantly found myself thinking about what will happen next. Once you start reading this wonderful novel it is almost impossible to put it down. I extremely enjoyed reading about the unique characters, whom I thought had awesome personalities. Inside Girl should definitely be a “must read” on every teenage girl’s list.
Content:2
There were a few instances when drinking alcohol was involved. Also, sometimes the language wasn't overly appropriate.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg , PA US
The Virtual Life of Lexie Diamond by Victoria Foyt
Lexie Diamond is a young girl that is simply obsessed with computers. She doesn't really have any friends in real life because she doesn't believe that she belongs in the 'bubble'. The bubble is the real world. Lexie believes that there is another world, located in the internet. The only real friends she has are her mother and the mysterious webrider, who has been her internet pal for years. Suddenly, when her mother is mysteriously killed, things just get worse for Lexie. Her father meets a woman named Jane, who Lexie thinks is involved with her mother's death. Also, she sees her mother on her computer, and talks to her! The only person who really believes her is webrider. They work together to figure out how her mother really died, and how to get rid of Jane. In the end, webrider is someone that you would never expect them to be.
This was a good book to read. I thought it was VERY different than anything else I have read before. I don't think there are many books that deal with computers or the internet, so it was an odd book to read. Even though it was based on computers, the storyline was twisted in a way I would never imagine. The plot was set up very well with many surprises along the way. The only bad thing I would say about it, is that The Virtual Life of Lexie Diamond was only a page turner for a few spots in the story. I recomend this book to anyone who wants to read something different then normal or anyone who loves computers.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pa United States of America
The One Left Behind by Willo Davis Roberts
Eleven year old Mandy has just lost her sister Angel. She is all alone in her house except for her big, black, and hairy dog Herry. Together they struggle to remain happy and they find themselves pretending Angel is still there. Then things really start to get different when she meets Zander Vyland and his little brother Dusty. Mandy decides to help them because two other men are going to try to kill Zander, or hold Dusty for ransom. She helps them escape the men and eventually discovers that she will never be alone, even without her sister alive.
This book was a very quick book to read because it only had 140 pages. It wasn't really a page turner, however, I finished it in almost one sitting. The story kept you wondering what would happen next because of the different plot line. I also found myself worried about the characters and wondering if they would ever be alright. Sometimes I found it hard to remember which character was which because there were many mentioned in a short time, but other than that it was a great book. The story took two major problems that don't even relate and put them together. I plan on reading other books by Willo Davis Roberts in hope of finding more like this one.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pa United States of America
Gentle's Holler by Kerry Madden
Livy Two Weems (named after her older sister Livy One who died at birth) lives with her family of ten in their holler in Maggie Valley. Eleven if you count Grandma Horace’s surprise visit. Livy Two has to deal with lots, including all her siblings, her Daddy’s guitar songs that aren’t selling, and her sister Gentle’s bad eyes. When money starts getting real bad, her Dad signs her up for a musical competition in town. Livy Two has a good voice and is very good on the guitar, but she doesn’t know if she can sing in front of all those people. Strangers. Her songs came from the Holler and they should stay there. She must sing though, she thinks, for her family at least!
A wonderful story of survival and family love! Kerry Madden’s first book in her Maggie Valley trilogy made me laugh and cry. I didn’t think it possible to interact with a book and its characters the way I did. I now wish I could go and visit the places that were in the book. Highly Recommend!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: , Idaho USA
Hitler's Canary by Sandi Toksvig
Hitler's Canary is the story of the invasion of Denmark by the Nazis in World War II. Bamse's family is a quiet, peaceable family, but when the Nazis arrive, everything changes. His brother Orlando starts doing dangerous work for the resistance while his father believes they should sit the war out. But Bamse's friend Anton is a Jew, and soon working against the Nazis is no longer an option but a necessity.
This book was a fresh and interesting look at the traditional Nazi/Jew story. My favorite parts were the ones that talked about Bamse's mother's eccentric thespian ways, and their life surrounding the theater. I could definitely relate to this quote:
"We lived in a make-believe world and it was hard for me to imagine doing anything else with my life."
The writing was perhaps a little lacking, but the book is still worth reading. If a somewhat simple story, Hitler's Canary was still quite interesting and the characters' heroism inspiring.
Reviewer Age:16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Moscow, ID USA
Chandlefort by David Randall
Randall's sequel to Clovermead combine's elements of fantasy and history with good storytelling. Cerelune Cindertallow, the heir of a matriarchal family, has the unusual ability to turn into a bear. The story continues from the point where Clovermead, as Cerelune likes to be called, has settled into Chandlefort with her mother Lady Melisande Cindertallow. She has recently returned because she was taken as a baby by Waxmelt and removed to another town. Since meeting with her mother, their relationship has been strained and it really comes under stress when their enemy, evil Lord Ursus, attacks Chandlefort. Past relationships become significant again as Clovermead struggles to save her wounded mother. Above all, Clovermead matures as a young woman and learns about herself.
Chandlefort is an interesting read as it has elements of medieval Europe with a transformed view. For instance, instead of the usual male-dominated society we associate with with history, Chandlefort has a matriarchal society with a Lady as a god-like spirit. This is definitely a fantasy with Clovermead's ability to turn into a bear and other unbelievable aspects. I enjoyed the mystery and Clovermead's growth as a person, but I do not think everyone will enjoy this book. I found myself getting lost at times with character relationships and origins. I recommend it to people who have a basic knowledge of medieval European history because it will make Clovermead easier to understand and follow.
Reviewer Age:19
Reviewer City, State and Country: Kansas City, MO USA
Grief Girl by Erin Vincent
Can thinking something make it happen? That is the question roaring in Erin Vincent’s mind on October 23, 1983. She wished that her parents would die, and a week later, they do. This true story based on the real Erin Vincent’s life is a true heartbreaker. Unable to cope with losing he mother and father, Erin turns to her teacher for solace, since her sister Tracy can’t relate to what Erin feels and goes through. But when they take the teacher away, who will Erin turn to? Will she make it having to rely on only herself? And will they find out that they are being robbed?
I loved reading this book immensely. Page after page is full of shocking turns and twists that take you through the teenage years of Erin Vincent. I was shocked at how other people reacted to Erin’s situation. But her telling the true story of her pain and suffering makes it a perfect summer read. If you love reading diary, or true stories, this is the perfect book for you. Although if you just want a good read, just give Grief Girl a shot.
Content:2
laungage and sexual reference
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: Casa Grande, AZ United States of America
The White Tyger by Paul Park
Miranda Popescu is back and has her friends with her again. Miranda Brancoveanu, the baroness, is still after Miranda. She finally catches her and makes her a prisoner. Miranda is finally reunited with her birth mother, Clara Brancoveanu. The baroness takes the title of white tyger and rules all of Roumania. How can Miranda stop her?
This book is a very complex read. I would suggest that only the most advanced teen reader try it. It was a little confusing because the book kept switching roles and characters, you didn't always know which one you were following. This was a good book, just a little confusing at parts.
There are a few parts were people talk about things maybe some parents will no want their children to read.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, USA
The Ghost in Allie's Pool by Sara Bodi
For as long as Allie could remember, she has been at her best friend, Marissa’s side. But 8th grade is here. Soon Allie finds that she is becoming farther and farther from Marissa. While at the same time, coming closer to her Pilgrim Ancestry. When Dorothy May( the wife of her great-great-great-great grandfather who jumped overboard), appears at Allie’s side, Allie and Dorothy become friends. 8th Grade is hard, what with bullies, no best friend, and a wacky teacher. But Allie finds her way through it all with just a little help from Dorothy. She may even find a potential boyfriend!
This book is really good! I really enjoyed the fact that the author portrayed what really happens in Junior High. No one really knows for sure what it’s like losing a best friend. But it all worked out in the end. Even if there were a few rough bumps in the road. It was also very interesting to see how the Pilgrims were tied into the story. You get a bit of history and modern 8th graders all at the same time. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a bit of history, and life lessons.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 12
Reviewer City, State and Country: , Illinois U.S.A
Code Orange by Caroline B. Cooney
Mitty Blake's biggest mistake was actually doing his homework. He lives in an apartment in New York City. Mitty attends a private school, St. Raphael's. He started a project on infectious disease for biology class. In one of the old textbooks he used for his research, he found an envelope labeled "Scabs-VM epidemic, 1902, Boston." Inside were scabs from smallpox, which was all but destroyed during the twentieth century. For the next week, Mitty can't concentrate on his project, his best friend, Derek, his girlfriend, Olivia, or his classes. He was worried he would catch the virus after finding out that it was from a dangerous strain, variola major. This strain will kill him. His research gets him more and more worried. Mitty decides to write an email to numerous people and organizations on the internet. After writing back, it seems there is a good chance he might catch smallpox. After nine days have passed since touching the scabs, a woman from the CDC approaches Mitty on the street. As Mitty goes with her, he is hit on the head. When he is missing, his mother calls the police. By this point, the FBI has become involved. They ask both Olivia and Derek where Mitty might be. Olivia and Derek then figure out that the FBI is scared one of the contacts from the internet may have been a terrorist and they abducted Mitty to infect the nation. Meanwhile, Mitty regains consciousness in a locked basement. He figures out that there is almost no hope of escape. However, Mitty tricks them and locks his guards in the basement. A few hours later, Mitty rigs a furnace to poison them all with carbon monoxide gas. The next day, the terrorist group leaders come and are about to take Mitty away when he locks the door on them. Mitty had a few scratches from a fight with his guards, but no smallpox. He has to be treated for his wounds in a hospital. All of the terrorists died from carbon monoxide poisoning. Mitty and his friends and family then went back to their normal lives.
Code Orange, by Caroline B. Cooney, is one of the best books I've ever read. It is definitely a page-turner. I stayed up late in the night reading it, and read it every chance I got. School was worse than normal because I couldn't read my book. The only downside is that it was too short. I liked it so much, I finished it in a day. I read on the bus, during breakfast, even in class! I recommend this book to anyone who likes thrillers or suspense. It is very similar to Andrew Clements' Things Not Seen in that both main characters have (or think they have) a special medical condition. This book, however, is far more suspenseful. It always leaves you guessing. It throws you right into the plot and there's never a dull moment. You really get to feel what Mitty and his friends are thinking. Also, the fact that the author uses real places in New York City and real references to books is really interesting, and those that have been to these places can relate to this. When it seems Mitty will die, you are ready to start screaming at the book , but then, all of a sudden, something happens and he narrowly escapes. The fact that it could happen in real life is very scary as well. Lastly, since it has been written post-9/11, and is based in NY, it has references to real events that took place on that day. Ten out of ten in my books.
Content:2
Some of the descriptions of the smallpox symptoms could be disturbing to younger children.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 13
Kiera Davis is going through tough times. She thinks her husband is having an affair, her teenage daughter is being rebellious, and Kiera's been having awful migraines, with bright flashes of light preluding them. She wants to think the migraines are normal, but she knows there's more beneath the surface-maybe connected to a haunting event in her past that she'd rather just forget about. Kiera's been living with a dark secret since high school, and feels the time is near for when she will be punished for it. Kiera feels like she's being haunted-by someone from her past, and by her vestigial twin whom she thinks is inside of her. Kiera ponders that her vestigial twin came to her to remind her of her past. When her friends are murdered, she has to face the truth. At each crime scene, witnesses say a woman who looked like Kiera was seen at each murder. But Kiera believes it couldn't have been her, because she was always in a different location than where the murder took place. As Kiera tries to put the pieces of this puzzle together, she tests her sanity, strength, and spirit as she tries to come to a logical decision through all of this.
Unbroken was a very interesting book. It had a lot of unconventional twists and turns in the story, and I must say that after receiving the book to review and reading the back cover, I was very skeptical about if I even wanted to read it. After you get past Unbroken's unusual oddity (the whole vestigial twin thing) and get into the mystery and suspense of "who's killing Kiera's friends?!?," it makes for an interesting, yet quirky, horror book. Sci-fi fans will love it! Unbroken's not for people who are in the mood for reading about characters with good morals. It's not that the characters are bad, but they just aren't faith-centered, so if you're looking for a book like that, this probably isn't for you. Unbroken also has a lot of harsh language in it, so this book is best suited for mature readers, around ages 15 and up.
Because of certain instances in the book, like where Kiera feels haunted and where her teenage daughter, Trista, might be pregnant, and also because of the language, Unbroken is just better for older, mature readers.
Reviewer Age:15
A Fine Night For Dying by Jack Higgins
Harvey Preston is drug to the bottom of the English Channel wrapped in chains. His death brings up suspicion, and becomes linked to a cross channel smuggling ring. Undercover, Paul Chavasse is sent to investigate this matter. He soon learns the real truth, but before it can be revealed he is caught. It is a constant fight for Paul's life, while he attempts to conceal his secrets.
This book is a fast-paced action thriller. It is a tale of suspicion and murder from beginning to end. It follows a smuggling ship's voyage through Europe in 1969.
I believe this book should be for mature readers only, for two reasons. First, this book contained many murders and was gorey. Also, towards the beginning of the book a man named, Jacaud, attempts to rape a young girl.
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Lemoore, California U.S.
The Year of My Miraculous Reappearance by Catherine Ryan Hyde
Cynnie is thirteen years old and has taken over the role of her mother. While her mom is sitting one the couch drinking, Cynnie is tending to Bill her 5 year old brother who has Down Syndrome. Cynnie feels as if she is the only one who loves him. This all changes when her mom sends Bill to live with their Grandparents because she feels he is too much of a responsibility. What will happen to Cynnie if she cannot be with her darling Bill? Will the pain of missing him force her to do something she normally wouldn't do?
This book started off a little dull in the beginning, but it became very interesting in the middle and end. This book has a very good moral to it and shows you what the power of addiction can do. This was a very good book and it is very different than any other book I have read. I definatly liked the character Bill because he is such a trooper, he's gone through a lot and he just smiles. I very much enjoyed the ending it keeps you satisfied yet it keeps you wanting more.
I believe this book had some adult content and it had a good amount of language.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Carlisle, Pennsylvania United States
Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson
When senior Tyler Miller gets sentenced to community service for putting graffiti on his school, his world turns round. Suddenly, he has a hot body and the
school's hottest girl, Bethany Milbury, all over it. This was what he wanted, right? Bethany, the respect of his fellow students for doing the stunt, and popularity. But what happens when good things turn bad and suddenly his world is TWISTED.
This was one of the best book I have ever read. It is about true teen struggle to cope with the odds of life. It also creates a comedy around what is going on with Tyler. This is could keep the attention of almost anyone, even someone who never reads. Anderson has done it again, another book, just as good as Speak.
This book has some content only intended for teens. This includes sexual things such as porn, raping, and some bodily functions.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Shippensburg, usa
Horse Sense: The Saddle Club by Bonnie Bryant
Stevie, Carol, and Lisa are looking for a new member to add to the Saddle Club but they are having difficulty finding someone who meets their two qualifications. The first qualification is that the new person has to be horse crazy and the second is that she has to help others. Stevie and Carole had been very busy with their projects and had been forgetting about Lisa and the club meetings that she scheduled. When a new girl named Estelle starts horseback riding lessons with the girls, Lisa starts to become friends with her. Lisa votes Estelle into the club without her friends' approval, but when Lisa tells Estelle and her other friends that Estelle is now a member, why doesn't anyone but she seem excited?
Horse Sense is the third installment in The Saddle Club series written by Bonnie Bryant. I really enjoyed this book the best of all out of the three Saddle Club books that I have read so far. The reason is because much more went on in this story than in the others and there was almost always a constant problem going on which had to get solved. Bonnie Bryant did a fantastic job of using descriptive words and with writing this excellent story. Horse Sense is an excellent book for girls who love horses and who are looking for a quick read.
Reviewer Age:13
Reviewer City, State and Country: Upper Strasburg, PA United States
Exploits of a Reluctant Hero by Maureen Fergus
Exploits of a Reluctant Hero by Maureen Fergus is the story of a young teenager’s journey to save the local soup kitchen from shutting down. The beginning of the story paints a picture of an adventurous teenager and his many unusual endeavors. His family moves to Winnipeg because his father is taking over the family business in town, and he joins the local business manager association. After a failed attempt of swindling over $900 from his dad’s business, our “hero” is sentenced by his parents to serve at the local soup kitchen. Here he meets and gets to know Jerry, the head of the Holy Light Mission. As the story progresses, the protagonist begins to see past what is best for him and starts to do the right thing. After a near death experience with a local business owner, the business management organization blames the people who seek refuge at the mission. This sparks a debate that divides the small town into those who support the mission and those who want it closed. With his heritage on one side and his mentor on the other, our hero has to decide between his interests and what is right. With a surprising ending and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, Exploits of a Reluctant Hero by Maureen Fergus is a great story of a boy rallying support and of excess fried chicken eating in front of the TV.
This book was one of the most enjoyable, hilarious, and insightful stories I have ever read. The author uses humor and a story almost everyone can relate to in order to send a wonderful message. The subtlety of this message allows it to be entrenched in the reader's mind instead of pounding the typical "let's save the world" idea in our heads. Using the format of journal entries by tape recording, the story allows readers to enter the mind of the protagonist and understand his thinking. The end of the story was perhaps my favorite part. Even though things didn't work out, it didn't stop the "hero" from continuing to make a difference. This book made me laugh, and it made me realize that anyone, regardless of who you are, can make a difference for someone else. A fun and hysterical book that I definitely recommend.
Content:3 Sexual humor and
references.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 17
Reviewer City, State and Country: Eden Prairie, Minnesota United States
Cam's Quest by Dian Curits Regan
Cam's Quest is the long-awaited sequel to Princess Nevermore. In this book, it's time for Quinn to follow Mandrian tradition and choose a husband. She isn't the least bit interested in any of her noble suitors, though. She can't forget Adam, the boy from Outer Earth she used to love. And what about Cam, her childhood playmate? Cam has a problem of his own, too. He is no longer the wizard Melikar's apprentice. His quest is now to discover his past, with only a few mysterious objects from his childhood. His quest might take him to the most unexpected places...and lead to such drastic changes in his life that he can't even imagine them.
This book will not disappoint fans of Princess Nevermore. The characters readers grew to love in the first book are back, and their adventures are even more interesting this time around! Cam's Quest is a page turner written by a talented author. Like Princess Nevermore, Cam's Quest is a fairy tale that readers of all ages will enjoy! I'd love to see another sequel, but I didn't feel like one was really being set up at the end...But you never know!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
The Thief Queen's Daughter by Elizabeth Haydon
The Thief Queen's Daughter continues the adventures of Ven Polypheme, a Nain who is travelling in foreign lands by himself, having all sorts of adventures. In this volume, Ven is sent by the King himself to visit the Gated City. The Gated City is where all sorts of criminals live, and it is ruled by the Queen Of Thieves. Ven and his friends enter for market day, planning to leave at the market's close--but when one of their number is kidnapped, they are forced to remain behind and try to rescue her. Once you're in the Gated City past market's closing, though, chances that you'll never get out increase drastically.
Elizabeth Haydon's wonderful characters, those who are human and those who are not, are all incredibly three-dimensional and interesting. The situations she puts these characters in will have readers turning pages as fast as their fingers allow! Haydon's skill at creating the fantastic world to which her characters belong is obvious. She's a brilliant writer whose words really come to life. I for one cannot wait for the next installment in the journals of Ven Polypheme!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner
The Thief begins the adventures of Eugenides, or Gen, who once bragged that he could steal anything. He stole the King's seal ring--but got caught doing so, and was thrown in prison. Now, he's out, as the King's magus needs a talented thief. What's he going after? Only an ages-old treasure in a foreign kingdom that gives its owner the right to the throne. The magus believes Gen is only a tool--but this thief has plans of his own.
While this book was a little slow pulling me in, it quickly made up for that with wonderful adventures, three-dimensional characters, and amazing writing. Gen is a character readers are sure to fall in love with, and I know I won't be alone in reading his further adventures in The Queen Of Attolia as soon as possible. Megan Whalen Turner keeps her readers guessing--just when you think you've got it all figured out, Gen surprises you! She's a talented writer, with a gift for world-building and characterization that readers will love. This book is one that shouldn't be missed!
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 9
Reviewer Age: 15Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
Princess Nevermore by Dian Curtis Regan
Princess Quinn of Mandria, one of the hidden underground kingdoms that magical beings fled to long ago, has always been curious about Outer Earth, the whole other world on the surface. She has seen many Outer Earth people come and go from the footbridge above the wishing pool in the wizard Melikar's chamber, the only window between the two worlds. She and her childhood playmate, the wizard's apprentice Cam, have long dreamed of a fantastic journey to Outer Earth, but when Cam finds the spell to send them there, things do not go as planned. First of all, only Quinn makes it to the surface. Secondly, and most gravely, she does not know how to return to Mandria.
Princess Nevermore is a wonderful modern-day fairy tale sure to be a hit with readers of all ages. I think I would have enjoyed it just as much at age nine or ten as I do now, and it'll surely remain a favorite of mine! It's full of magic, adventure, mystery, and wonderful, relatable characters. There's also a nice love story mixed in! Quinn's world is a fascinating one, created by a talented author, and one to which I will be glad to return when I pick up the sequel to this book, Cam's Quest.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 10
Reviewer Age: 15
Reviewer City, State and Country: Asheville, NC USA
