The Old Man and the Sea

Briana
Freshman in college

The Old Man and the Sea
By Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway is a great author whose books have started a revolution of dreamers and led to the reinvention of English prose in the 20th century. The Old Man and the Sea is one of his most enduring novels because it is told in simplicity, but represents power. This story is about an old Cuban fisherman, down on his luck and just going through the motions, always believing that the next day will be his lucky day. After the 85th day at sea with no luck, the old man hooks a fish. He knows it is a big one because the fish doesn't fight the hook, but instead starts swimming away- pulling the small skiff with him. The man believes that the fish will soon tire and eventually kill himself from over-exertion, but instead the fish pulls strong and hard for three days. The old man is forced to hold the line, using his back and legs to support him as he braces himself. Finally, the fish rises for air and the old man realizes that the fish is indeed much larger than the skiff and very powerful.
The Old man has a chance to catch the fish, and he swiftly harpoons the great beast and ties his next to the skiff as he makes his slow progress back to the Cuban coast. The old man is elated and joyous because he knows that this fish will feed many people for a long time! Unfortunately, sharks begin to terrorize the man and slowly the fish is diminished to nothing more than a corpse- a forgotten promise of what could have been... The next morning, the skeleton of the beautiful beast is found, and all the other fisherman are in shock of what the old man accomplished. The novel finishes with the old man dreaming of his adventures.

Why I picked up this book:
I enjoy Ernest Hemingway's novels because they reveal human nature in it's simplest and most common form. I also wanted to read a classic and award wining novel, so I put this novella on my summer reading list.

Why I finished this book:
This book took me just a few hours to read because it is so small- only 130 pages cover to cover. It was also a good book, because it showed the strength of humans, and the respect that we should all have towards nature and beast greater than us. This novella has a great message.

Who I would recommend this book too:
I would give this book to anyone who is unsure of what to read next next. If you are in between books and need a short easy read, this is the book for you. It has a great message, and it invokes so many feelings in such a short time. This novella is available on audio books, the Internet, and many other sources- making it easily accessible.

Rating:
**** Very Good

American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

2007 Printz Award Winner, the first major award given to a graphic novel.

American Born Chinese is a collection of three parallel stories of adaptation. The first tale is of the Monkey King, whose only goal is to be part of the dinner party in heaven. After he is shunned for being merely a monkey, the Monkey King decides to continue to master the disciplines of Kung Fu and fight those who won’t accept him.

Jin Wang starts a new school and is introduced as being from China, although he was born in San Francisco. He is a loner and is often bullied. When Wei-Chen, a new student from Taiwan, joins the class, Jin Wang is unsympathetic and tells him to speak English in America. Jin Wang develops a crush on a Caucasian girl but her friend delivers him a harsh message –that he (an ABC) is not good enough for her.

Danny is the All-American white boy. His cousin Chin-Kee comes to visit once a year and Danny is humiliated. Chin-Kee is the ultimate representation of the negative Chinese stereotype and Danny feels Chin-Kee is ruining his life.

When these three stories collide, the reader learns about identity and what it might feel like to be an American Born Chinese.

Why I picked this book: The first time I read it because the book won the Printz Award. I chose it for our May teen book club selection because the group wanted to read a graphic novel.

Why I finished it: I liked the three stories. Monkey King is based on an ancient Chinese myth, Jin Wang's story was autobiographical, and Danny/Chin-Kee's story was set up in a tv show (which I didn't catch while reading!)

I'd give the book to: avid readers looking for a good introduction to graphic novels.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

View all my Goodreads reviews

Hero Type by Barry Lyga

Name: Caitlin

Grade: 12+

Book: Hero Type

Author: Barry Lyga

What does it mean to be a hero? I consider myself and my peers to be part of a superhero generation, but even that doesn't make the question any simpler. For Kevin Ross (Kross to his friends) the question is even more complicated. Kross is a hero; he saved a girl, Leah, from being raped by a notorious criminal. That makes him a hero, right? Unfortunately for Kross, it's definitely not that simple. Admired by everyone in his small town, Kross finds himself in a tricky situation; his father never speaks because of a mysterious war accident, his friends are the biggest pranksters in town and to top it all off, the entire town is turning on him because his father took the "support our troops" stickers off of the car awarded to him for saving Leah. As the dark secrets of his father's past, as well as his own, emerge, Kross starts to question if he ever really was a hero. Kross has to learn to accept his life for what it is and learn to stand up and do the right thing in the face of complete opposition before he can ever ask himself what it means to be a hero.

Barry Lyga is one of my favorite authors. I've read all of his books except one, but out of all of them Hero Type is definitely my favorite. Lyga has a way of binding the weirder, darker side of real life with the things that people actually feel when they're experiencing. Kross is put into a very, very difficult position when his father takes the "support our troops," stickers off his car, made even more difficult when he has to face the most popular kid in school to stand up for why his father did it. This book has so many controversial issues in it, which makes it difficult to write a review; there's too much to talk about. The complexity of the story and characters, however, make this book more than amazing.
By the end of the book, I was totally rooting for Kross to win and for everyone to love him again, but Lyga also has a way with focusing on the reality of the story. Nothing about this book is sugar coated; Kross is extremely unlikeable and creepy in many parts of the book, but for all of these major flaws, Kross is extremely human. All of the characters are flawed and confused enough for me to actually believe them and all of this makes the book totally convincing. The lives that Lyga built for the people in this small town are remarkable and fantastic. Not everything is resolved by the end of the book, but it's obvious that Lyga planned for it to be that way and it only adds to the reality of the entire story. The reality and humanity Lyga wrote into this book are definitely what made it so utterly great.

Why I picked up this book: It sounded interesting and I love Barry Lyga.

Why I finished it: I totally couldn't put it down.

I'd give this books to: Speech kids. Definitely speech kids. But, honestly, I think everyone should read this book.

My rating for this book: *****

Stay by Deb Caletti

Name: Krystiana Graham

Grade: 12th grade +

Title: Stay

Author: Deb Caletti

Review: From everyone I've talked to, I've heard amazing words about Deb Caletti, and I must say, she does not disappoint. Stay is only the first book of hers that I have read, but it's a book worth reading. It's a wonderful story, with a twisted plot, that will literally leave you clinging to the edge of your seat. The story travels between two different time periods, the past and the present. In the present you meet Clara, the main character - who is suffering from an obsessive boyfriend, and has gone on a vacation of sorts, in an attempt to get away from him, but it is the short chapters between the chapters of Clara's life now, that you get to meet Christian, her obsessive, possessive ex-boyfriend.

Christian came into her life by pure conciounsedence, and has stayed in it because of Clara not wanting to hurt him by leaving. You learn that Christian holds Clara captive by his obsession with her, as well as his low self esteem that makes it to where she feels it is her job to be close to him, and to stand by him. Unfortunately, it also leaves Clara stuck between a rock and a hard place. Eventually, Clara is able to send him away - and to get further away her father takes her to a remote place by the sea in hopes of putting some distance between Clara and Christian. And to keep up this 'distance' no one is to know where she is.

Clara welcomes a new, but simple life with the change of scenary, as well as a new crush in the form of a local sailor. Clara finds a job at the light house, her father finds a girl friend in her boss, and she's beginning to get used to things, until her crush turns into her boyfriend, and she calls up her best friend to tell her about it. Clara tells her friend where she is, and in turn her friend tells her mother. And then Christian learns of where Clara is that way. And suddenly, Clara's heaven isn't so heavenly anymore. Her haven turns into a nightmare the night Christian shows up, and it leads to a chase that ends as she's cornered out at sea, with Christian approaching. And from there . . . well, you'll have to read the story yourself to find out.

Why I picked this book up: I'm not sure why I picked up Stay. I didn't hear any good remarks about the author, until others had already seen me reading it. It was just a book I had found on a whim. To be honest, it was one of those random 'Oh what's this' moments. And after I read the inside cover, I knew it was a book I'd have to read.

Why I finished it: This is a book I'd happily call hypnotic. Caletti definitely knows how to hold a girl captive, from my perspective. This book kept you wanting to read more, curious as what would happen next, and dying for the information in between chapters, that were like the secrets of Clara's past. The more you read, the more you wanted to read. However, Caletti also did a wonderful job pulling the book together at the end, finishing it up in a delicate way, and leaving you with a feeling of peace. An ending worthy of the book.

I'd give this book to: I'd give this book to anyone - though I've already suggested it to a friend who has similar problems as Clara. It's a book that is almost informative at just how dangerous relationships can be, as well as a good book for anyone who wants a realistic modern, relationship based fiction book. This is a book I'd happily hand to people down the street, because it's an interesting story, and I don't think there is anyone who wouldn't like at least one section of it.

Rating: Four out of Five; I'd give it a higher rating, but I do hate giving a book a five. So maybe it's more of a four and three quarters. Yes. that sounds more likely, more appropriate. This book was wonderful. Cleverly written, designed to capture attention and hold it. It was very consistent, as well. And over all. It's an amazing story, worthy of being noticed.

The Saga of Larten Crepsley: Ocean of Blood

Name: Serina

Grade: College

Title: The Saga of Larten Crepsley: Ocean of Blood

Author: Darren Shan

Larten Crepsley is a young vampire with great aspirations. After leaving his mentor Seba Nile for a period of time that all Pups (as young vampires are called) take to find themselves, Larten is living the high life with his companion Wester. The two of them gamble, drink ale, consort with women, and follow along behind battles to feed on the fallen humans. It truly is paradise, but Larten still feels like he is missing something. So, even though his current life is so appealing, he and Wester return to their master to complete their vampire training. Seba then takes them to vampire mountain to participate in the council. While there, Seba is given the job of quarter master and asks if his two apprentices would like to stay. Wester is eager to remain in the mountain, but Larten is far less certain. Regardless, he agrees to train and become a vampire general. Eventually, after years of training, Larten becomes fed up with the hierarchy system of generals and princes, and after becoming angered by his master's words telling him to go, he leaves vampire mountain. Larten then falls back into old habits, drinking ale until he passes out and flirting with women. He is still not pleased with his life, and runs into the rowdy and rude vampire Vancha March, who he accompanies until Vancha is called back to vampire mountain. When Larten is alone again and missing any form of company, he decides to seek out the sorceress Evanna, who he had previously met and been dazzled by while still in the service of his master. Fate takes things from there, and the hands of destiny lead Larten into some very unsavory situations that he may end up paying the ultimate price for in blood. And it is not necessarily his own...

I picked this book up because I love Darren Shan.

I finished this book in one night because it was exciting as well as easy t read.

I would give this book to anyone who likes the Cirque Du Freak series, or to anyone who is sick of vampires that glitter in the sunlight rather than burn.

Rating: **** I really liked it!

Choke by Chuck Palahniuk

Name: Cailtin

Book: Choke

Author: Chuck Palahinuk

Victor Mancini's mother is in a home; a home that costs 3,000 bucks a month, a price that medical school dropout Victor can't afford. His solution to this is simple- he forces himself to choke in restaurants. Victor spends his nights choking and his days coping with (sort of, but not really) his sex addiction; every Saturday he visits his mother. It's while he's visiting his mother that he meets the beautiful Paige Marshall, one of the resident doctors that cars for his mother. As Victor delves deeper into his mother's past and his own, he is drawn into an insane world where the people who save your life are responsible for you forever, his best friend is collecting boulders and rocks to stave off his sex addiction, and Victor himself has to separate fact from crazy as his mother suggests that his father might be divine.
Choke was very, very typical Palahniuk. The story is funny in it's absurdity, but also encompasses the dark and bleak worlds that Palahniuk's characters always find themselves in. this book, like most other books by this author, was very theatrical, with a corrupted main character and a very unique writing style. The story itself was also really interesting. Palahinuk put a spin on the typical "parent in a home, child can't afford, con people into giving them money so they can keep their parent alive" plot. He makes it ultimately stripped down the the core of what the bleak, dirty side of humanity is.
The only complaints I have with this books is that it is so similar to all of the other works Palahinuk has done. His writing style seems to be very set-in-stone. This books is also depressing, insulting and infuriating at times, so it's not a good read for a sunny day.
The whole book is filled with twists and the reader is forced to fall into the insanity of the characters. This books is ultimately disgusting and horrible and insulting (I think it might actually need a warning label) and I honestly could not put it down.

Why I picked up this book: I generally like Palahinuk's books and this one has been in my to-read pile forEVER.

Why I finished it: I couldn't really put it down. It's disgustingly fascinating.

I'd give this book to: Anyone who is looking for a truly bleak and unique read.

I would NOT recommend this books to: People who are sensitive to generally horrible things and people who have parents who are very sick or in homes. This is NOT a feel-good read...unless it makes you feel better about yourself.

My Rating for this book: ****

Rules of Attraction

Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles
Briana, 12th grade

Just like Elkeles novel- Perfect Chemistry, we are introduced to Carlos, the middle Fuentes brother. A rough, tough, and egotistical Mexican who's got a problem with everyone is forced to leave Mexico to live in Colorado with his oldest brother, Alex. Carlos is reluctant to do anything, much less live with his brother's professor and his annoying daughter. Kiara- a level headed, recently confident girl is immediately drawn to Carlos. It might be his love for cars, one she shares, or maybe it's the hidden depths that Carlos rarely shows. Either way, they are forced to test the boundaries of love as Carlos gets tied up in a gang- something Alex tried to prevent from happening by shipping Carlos to Colorado. As this story unfolds, many secrets are revealed in this action/ romance novel.

Why I picked up this novel:
I had read Perfect Chemistry and obviously loved it, so I grabbed Rules of Attraction to see what it would be like.

Why I finished the book:
Well lets just say that it was incredibly hard to put this novel down! I loved it- maybe it was the forbidden romance, or the tall, dark, and handsome Fuentes brothers that keep me intrigued. Either way it was a great book.

Who I'd recommend this novel to:
I think this is a book that would appeal to girls more than guys because we are looking for these forbidden romances and love stories that leave us astounded. There is action- the gang affiliations and fights, but I think it's more of a "coming of age" novel. It's really worth reading is all I can say!

Rating: *****
Really good!

The Road

Cormac McCarthy's masterpiece is the story of an unnamed man and his boy as they travel across a post-apocalyptic United States. There are no animals to be seen anywhere, the entire land is burnt and covered with ash, corpses are lying everywhere, and survival is very unlikely. The man and boy are no exception. They travel south in the hopes of finding food and protection from the dangers of the outside, the worst being the people. Starvation has driven them mad with hunger turning them in cannibals. A true horror story. The man does everything to keep his son safe and the boy will always remain loyal to his father. All they have is each-other and whatever supply they carry. I read this book and couldn't put it down because of all the horror and suspense. It will keep you guessing and you will be shocked at all the horror McCarthy sends into you mind. I give it a 4.5/5 and recommend it to anyone over the age of sixteen. Anyone younger might not be able to handle it. The question is can you?

Marcelo In The Real World by Francisco X. Stork

Marcelo likes his world just the way it is. He lives in a tree house, attends a special school called Paterson where he helps with the horses and is accepted regardless of his differences. He hears music in his mind and remembers Bible verses. Marcelo is 17 years old and has a form of autism called Aspergers.

Marcelo's father Arturo decides that Marcelo needs to spend the summer before his senior year working in "the real world". Although Marcelo already had a job caring for and training the ponies at Paterson, it has been decided that Marcelo will work in the mail room at Arturo's law office. Arturo wants Marcelo to learn how to interact with people outside of Paterson and how to live by the rules of the real world.

The real world might have more in store for Marcelo than even Arturo imagined. Right & wrong, good & bad, trust, jealously, love, honesty. How will the real world change Marcelo? How will Marcelo change the real world?

Why I picked up the book: I've heard many positive things about the book and I was looking for something different (not supernatural, sci-fi, or abuse) for our teen book club.

Why I'm finishing it: Makes me think about how we treat people who are different. Is anyone really normal? Seeing the "real world" through Marcelo's eyes makes me wonder if we would all be better off not being "normal".

I'd give it to: high school students, parents, teachers, librarians. Right now I think it would be good for graduating seniors trying to find their place in the world.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

View all my Goodreads reviews

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

Name: Krystiana Graham

Grade: 12th grade

Title: I am Number Four

Author: Pittacus Lore

Review: This is a story that is showing up everywhere. A new motion picture, a new book, and a fantastic read, if you ask me. I am Number Four is about a boy, similar to the youth of today - yet different in many ways as well. The first thing you learn about John, is there are a few things that make him special. One. He's one of the nine. Number Four to be exact (cue title here), and he's one of the nine surviving Garde, a subsection of a race of humanoids on the planet Lorien. Along with these nine Garde came nine guardians, the other subspecies of humanoids called Cêpan. Sent to earth after their planet was attacked by another, much more foul race of creatures the surviving 18 Loric must split up into groups of two. One Garde, one guardian. And they must survive on earth - blending in; and wait for the Garde's legacies to appear so that they might be able to fight back against the aliens that destroyed their planet. Legacies are part of the Garde, which make them special. Super powers given to them by their planet, do to the Loric's desire to keep the planet alive and safe. These Legacies help the Garde fight, to protect Lorien. And until the Legacies develop, the nine young Gardes are in serious trouble.

At the beginning of the book, however, you learn that the nine Garde have actually been lowered to only six remaining, one, two, and three having already met their fate. Now it's John who is fighting for his life - because he is in danger. He is number four. He is next. If they find him, he is dead. You follow the story, seeing it from John's general perspective, watching as he experiences the difficulties of being a Garde fighting for his life, trying to fit in with the humans, and discovering just who he is. You see the strength with in him, the courage, and selfless-ness he fights with. And you can easily find a connection with this one of a kind hero. And no one else but Lore could have portrayed an idea to such an excellent extent. This book is worth reading. Who knows, maybe the movie's not that half bad either.

Why I picked this book up: My mother was the one who actually picked this book out, for herself none the less. When she had finished it in one day, I knew it was a book worth looking into. That, and my mother basically pushed it into my hands.

Why I finished it: Many have asked me, since I finished the book 'Is it a good book, or a good author?' This is a question I stumble over, because i have no answer for it. I absolutely love the story, I shan't lie about that. I've never read anything like it. It keeps you pinned in, and fawning over the idea of what will happen next. I finished it, not because you have to finish every book that you come across, or be left unsatisfied, but because I constantly had to know 'What is going to happen next.' And I hope, one day soon, I'll be able to figure out the answer to the question. Is it a good book, or a good author. Maybe it's both. I'm still not sure.

I'd give this book to: I'd give this book to anyone who loves to read, merely for the fact that it's an interesting, and captivating book. But beyond that - I'd give it to those interested in the extraterrestrial. Because, this book has MORE then enough of that. and yet, it is still far from 'Sci-fi.' Really, this is a book anyone can sink their teeth into, and be left asking for more.

Rating: Five out of Five; Hello wonderful. This book has it all. Awesome characters, a plot that keeps you hooked, and a story line that flows perfectly. I hate giving fives, because many take it as a sign of no need for improvement, but for this one, it has all the makes of a five, and I won't degrade it to anything less.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan

Name: Caitlin

Grade: 12 (soon to be 12+! :])

Book: Will Grayson, Will Grayson

Authors: John Green and David Levithan

Will Grayson is just an ordinary guy; he lives under the radar and follows the rules of not making a scene or speaking up. For such a cowardly and shy character, Will's best friend is surprising. Tiny is anything but tiny; in fact, Tiny is one of the biggest people Will had ever met. Along with being a huge football player, Tiny is also very, very homosexual. He's larger than life and definitely the heart of the book; if they were to make a movie of this book, no one would ever be able to live up to how amazing Tiny is. This book follows Will Grayson to the most unlikely place, a shady porn shop, where Will Grayson meets Will Grayson.

The second Will is a completely different character; in love with a guy he met online and fighting his way through depression, his parent's divorce, and living in the lower bracket of the middle class. He has few friends and a dark outlook on life. As these characters collide, their lives are changed by Tiny and through Tiny they change each other.
Not to mention the underlying plot of one big, gay musical authored by none other than Tiny himself, a girlfriend, several boyfriends and lots of characters learning a thing about life.
This book was brilliant in so many ways. For one thing, John Green is one of my favorite authors; when he joined with Levithan, who wrote Boy Meets Boy, the book was destined to be a success in my eyes. John Green's lough-out-loud humor and unique viewpoints for characters paired with David Levithan's unique perspectives into how people are as well as his knack for bringing light and happiness into the predominantly angst-riddled subject of homosexuality gives this book a depth I rarely see. The best thing about this book, however, is that it tricks you into thinking the book is about the Graysons, then it's about Tiny, and then it's back to the Graysons again. Even after I've finished it, the book was about all three of them separately, but by the ending it was about all three.
The only downsides to this book for me was that in all collaborative books, the authors always miss some small things that could have been followed through, but were missed; another fault I saw was that depressive Grayson didn't use any capitalization and, being a grammar nazi, it bothered me, even if I did understand why they did it.
Overall, this book was wonderful and human and masterfully written. It was everything I like in books: funny, heartbreaking, beautiful, and everyone figures out how stupid they were in the beginning.

Why I picked up the book: I've been on a John Green kick and it also had a pretty cover :)

Why I finished this book: I really could not put it down

I'd give this books to: Anyone looking for a really, really, great-growing up story.

My Rating for this book: *****

Where She Went by Gayle Forman

SPOILER ALERT: If you have not read "If I Stay", do not read this review. Go to your nearest library, check it out and then return!




Three years ago, the love of Adam's life, Mia, was the sole survivor of a horrific car accident that robbed her of both parents and her younger brother. Mia spent four days in a coma and Adam asked, begged, her to stay and made her a promise he never thought he’d have to keep. But when Mia left for Julliard in the fall, she walked out of his life and never came back.

Now Adam is officially a rock star complete with addictions, anger issues, and depression. Even writing two albums full of award-winning hit songs hasn’t provided him any closure. After causing a scene during an interview, Adam's manager suggests he take an evening in NYC to relax and “get away from it all” before flying to London to start the tour. Little does Adam know that this chance to breathe will allow him to walk by Carnegie Hall and see a poster announcing the concert of the night: Mia Hall. The chance to watch Mia play, even from a distance, is enough for Adam, but then Mia invites him backstage after the show. Have you ever wondered what if and why? If you had the chance to come face to face with your lost love, what would you say? Adam is about to find out Where She Went.


Why I picked up the book: It takes place three years after "If I Stay", which I loved. Interestingly enough, this book is from Adam's point of view.

Why I finished the book: I needed closure, just like Adam. While it never occurred to me that "If I Stay" needed a sequel, I couldn't put the book down. The author has an amazing way with words and I was hooked on her sentences. It was also nice to finally read a great YA story that wasn't 300-700 pages long.

I'd give it to: fans of "If I Stay", romantics, anyone who has ever wondered what if in terms of their first love.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

View all my Goodreads reviews

Skulduggery Pleasant

Name: Serina

Grade: College

Title: Skulduggery Pleasant

Author: Derek Landy

Skulduggery Pleasant is the suavest, smooth-talking detective to ever walk the earth. He also is an ancient wizard that has been fighting a secret war for generations against evil sorcerers that are trying to throw the world into chaos and rule it with an iron fist. Oh yeah, and he's dead...

When twelve-year-old Stephanie Edgley's novelist uncle dies, he leaves her his mansion and all his possessions, including some rather dangerous ones that have magical properties. At the reading of her uncle's will, a mysterious man was invited. Called Skulduggery Pleasant, he wore a large coat and concealed his face with a hat and sunglasses, but he had the most beautiful voice that she has ever heard. Later, while staying at her uncle's home, which has not suddenly become hers, Stephanie is attacked by a strange man, demanding to know where the 'key' is. When things become dire and Stephanie is not able to escape, the man in the coat from the will reading barges in and, to Stephanie's amazement, creates a fireball in his gloved hand and shoots it at her attacker, driving him away. However, in the scuffle, Skulduggery loses his hat and sunglasses, giving Stephanie an even greater shock. Skulduggery Pleasant is a walking skeleton.

From there on, Stephanie is dragged into an ancient battle that has been going on behind humanity's back for hundreds of years. Skulduggery died during the war, but could not move on. So, with a bit of magic, he reanimated his bones and has been walking around since. Skulduggery believes that one particularly bad sorcerer is after something said to only exist in myth, the Scepter of the Ancients. He also believes that Stephanie's uncle was murdered.

In an attempt to escape her boring life, Stephanie accompanies Skulduggery on his quest to avenge her uncle's murder and to stop the evil sorcerer called Nefarian Serpine, even though he is not very willing to have her along. But what's a skeleton to do?

I picked this book up because it had an awesome cover.

I finished this book because it was fun and interesting.

Rating: ****

An Abundance of Katherines by John Green

Name: Caitlin

Grade: 12

Book: An Abundance of Katherines

Author: John Green

Colin Singleton is single- that's because he was very recently dumped by the "love of his life,Katherine. To Colin, this Katherine was Katherine the Great; losing her was a tragedy in itself; this was the 19th Katherine he had dated in his life and she left him-- his life is over. Although Colin is intent on wallowing in his misery and maybe trying to get Katherine back, his friend Hassan, a Judge-Judy obsessed Muslim who is not a terrorist decides it's time for a road trip. They eventually land in a very small town and take shelter with one of the local families. Their adventures there are both hilarious and sweet as Colin learns that Katherines aren't the only girls in the world.
An Abundance of Katherines is a book that all teenagers can relate to--well, mostly. It does deal with teen relationships, which really everyone can relate to, but John Green managed to put a unique twist on it, as is his style. Colin is a prodigy, a child genius who remembers nearly everything he reads. The book is full up with mathematical equations, random facts and general nerdery; Hassan is practically in love with Judge Judy and all of these character quirks make the characters more human and definitely more lovable. John Green has a way of taking a typical boy gets dumped, boy meets girl, teenage coming of age road trip story and making it interesting and funny again. This book was hilarious and easy to relate to and all together a good read.

Why I picked up the book: I'm a nerdfighter, how could I not? If you don't know what a nerdfighter is, I encourage you to check out this site:

http://nerdfighters.ning.com/

Why I finished it: It was quick and very entertaining, so not finishing it would have been a challenge.

I'd Give this book to: Really any teen. It's a good reminder that being dumped is not the end of the world. Otherwise, anyone who likes nerdier fiction or someone looking for something funny to read.

My Rating for this book: ****

Poppy by Avi

"No creature is allowed to leave their homes without the permission of the great horned owl, Ocax." One night Poppy, a young deer mouse, and her boyfriend Ragweed go out at night to dance. They thought that they weren't being watches but they were wrong. Ocax in a fit of rage swoops down and devours Ragweed while slightly missing Poppy. Poppy runs back home to her family who are all wanting to move to a new house in search for food. When her family asks the great owl for permission he immediately says no. Poppy being blamed for it all now must journey to investigate why the horned owl rejects their offer. On her journey she meets a cranky old porcupine who agrees to help Poppy get to the new house. When they arrive Poppy is stopped by Ocax. As a last gift to a friend the porcupine gives Poppy one of his needles to fend off the owl. The question is will it work? This book is amazing a and exhilarating. Every page made me want to continue. Though a children's book, I strongly recommend this to any teen. It is a story of adventure, sadness, and courage. I give it this book a good 5/5. This book is marvel and anyone who reads this will be amazed.

Briana
12th Grade
The Bone People
by: Keri Hulme

An estranged artist, a mute boy, and an abusive adoptive father are all brought together in this enticing story of native New Zealanders, and their fight to preserve their way of life. These three characters were "walking dead", never amused by anything and putting on a fake face for the outside world- until one event throws them all together.
Kerewin Holmes, an artist and a lottery winner, she is tough, hard, blunt, and capable of fending for herself. One night, a boy shows up on her doorstep; a mute boy with long blond hair, white skin, and bruises on his body with every intention of reeking havoc on Kerewin's simple life. Simon P. (at least, that is the only name the boy ever responds too) Gillayley, adoptive son of Joe Gillayley, has had it rough. Found nearly dead and shipwrecked on the coast, was taken in by Joe and his dying wife so that he could live like a normal child- but Simon is not a normal child. He knows much more than he should at his age, is always seeking attention by stealing and beating other kids at school, and revealing terrifying secrets when he believes himself to be alone. Joe- widowed and hurt, seeks happiness, often coming in the form of drinking himself into oblivion. The strains of being a widow and having to raise a feisty foster son wear Joe down all the time, until he meets Kerewin.
The Bone people is about these three unlikely friends, their blossoming relationship, the shattering of such a good thing, and their struggles afterwards.

Why I picked this book up: This novel was an assigned reading book for my English class.

Why I finished the book: Contrary to popular belief, this assigned book was a great read. I really enjoyed this novel because it had a great plot line that can be related to everyone in one way or another.

Who I would recommend this book too: Anyone who is not sure what to read next. Unlike most books today, it is not a part of a series, making the perfect "in-between" novel. There is deception, love, joy, heartache, and suspense all crammed in this novel. The characters are portrayed so that they are loved, and the plot line depicts many inner struggles.

Rating: *** Good

Soaring Eagle Book Awards

And the winner is.....

Wyoming Soaring Eagle Book Award (7th-12th grade)
2011-2012 Nominees


Eighth Grade Bites
(Chronicles of Vladimir Tod #1)
by Heather Brewer

Fire
(Seven Kingdoms Trilogy #2)
by Kristin Cashore

Clockwork Angel
(Infernal Devices #1)
by Cassandra Clare

Catching Fire
(Hunger Games #2)
by Suzanne Collins

The Maze Runner
(Maze Runner #1)
by James Dashner

Halt's Peril
(Ranger’s Apprentice #9)
by John Flanagan

Football Hero
by Tim Green

Glass *
(Crank #2)
by Ellen Hopkins

The Iron King
(Iron Fey #1)
by Julie Kagawa

Unwind
by Neal Shusterman

The Last Song
by Nicholas Sparks

Shiver
(Wolves of Mercy Falls #1)
by Maggie Stiefvater

Blood on My Hands
(Wish You Were Dead #2)
by Todd Strasser

Confessions of Serial Kisser
by Wendelin Van Draanen

Paranormalcy
(Paranormalcy #1)
by Kiersten White

Desires of the Dead

Name: Krystiana Graham

Grade: 12th grade

Title: Desires of the Dead

Author: Kimberly Derting

Review: Desires of the Dead is the sequel to Bodyfinder, by Kimberly Derting. And let me tell you something - the wait was well worth it. Desires of the Dead continues the story of Psychic Girl; Violet Ambrose, her steady boyfriend; Jay, and her closest friends. Violet is able to hear 'echos' from those whose lives had been cut short by the actions of another. Animals and humans alike. And the killers carry a similar echo as well. In this book, however, you are in for another gut clenching, adrenaline pumping story. Violet is at it again, when it comes to finding bodies, this time the body is that of a young boy who was locked in a container at a shipping dock and was left to die. Do to this find, Violet is finally put on the radar for the FBI. Sara Priest is introduced as the not-so-FBI agent, with her helper, Rafe. Along with these two new characters you are introduced to a pair of siblings - the new kids who share a shocking secret. There mother ran out on them... That, or... as the FBI suspects, their mother is dead. Violet soon starts to receive threatening messages , that leave her second guessing who she can trust and who she can't. And with the FBI watching her from around every corner; it's not surprising Violet starts keeping secrets. Eventually she finds a suspect who might be sending her the messages, and when she goes to discuss it with Jay, she finds herself battling him over whether or not she could be right; ending up with them having a huge fight and she going to the only person she can think of, to help her figure out what to do. Sara Priest's odd helper, who seemed to understand just how 'unique' Violet is.

Eventually she decides to give some files that Rafe gave her - a look through, and calls Rafe, deciding to look into one of the cases. The case about the sibling's mother. Going to a suspects house, she finds an echo and follows it quickly to where a body is buried, wrapped in plastic. She isn't able to unwrap it before Rafe shows up, leads her away, and calls Sara and the police. However, the body turned out to be nothing more then a dog. When Violet finally goes to Jay - apologizing, she tells him the whole truth in regards to what is going on, and after talking some things out they are there for each other once again. Soon she, Jay, her friends, and the two siblings are planning a trip up to a cabin, with the sibling's father... It is there that the story starts to pick up. Echo of a body discovered - though she's unable to dig it up. Matching echos to the sibling's father. And finally, the discovery of what really happened to the siblings' mother. But if you want to know about what isn't mentioned - then you better check the book out; and find out what happens for yourself.

Why I picked this book up: I picked this book up; because I've always been interested with stories that involve killers, and the cases trying to be solved. I'd read the first book in the series, so i was excited to see what happened in the next. Though I had to wait a bit before I found enough time to actually sit down and be able to read the book.

Why I finished it: I greatly dislike having to stop reading a book in the middle of it, do to the fact that I'll constantly be wondering about what happened - and often times will make up my own ending just to appease my brain. Luckily this wasn't a problem with Desires of the Dead. This book is quick about grabbing your attention, and keeps you interested through the entire thing. I read this book in bed, on the bus, during class. I couldn't stop reading... And, why would I want too... with a story like this?

I'd give this book to: You can't get better then combining two of the most interesting topics in the world. Psychic Powers, and Murders. For anyone who likes reading those type of books (and for those of you who might have similar powers) this is a most read. The store is engaging, and most anyone could find something to connect to, with in the plot. It's an amazing story... but why am I still telling you this? Go check the book out for yourself and find out.

Rating: Four out of Five; It was really good, especially considering it was the type of book that you could read with out having read the first in the series.

Identical by Ellen Hopkins

Kaeleigh & Raeanne
Raeanne & Kaeleigh
Identical Twins
Mirror images of each other
Yet underneath it’s
Good girl vs wild child
Both keeping a secret
Holding inside
Ugliness
Self hate
Repressed anger
Does anyone notice?
That appearances
Aren’t everything
District court judge father
Plus
Politician mother
Does not equal
Happy home

Why I picked up this book: I like the author and it was on my to-read pile. Book club members had suggested it.

Why I finished it: I love Hopkins style and the fact that she doesn't shy away from tough & troubling subject matter (drug & alcohol abuse, sexual abuse, cutting, promiscuity, suicide). Even though she writes in verse, it reads like a regular novel. Some pages/poems are in a shape and I liked that the end of one section and the beginning of another were mirror poems. I also had to know what the resolution would be.

I'd give the book to: fans of Hopkins. Readers who aren't afraid to tackle tough subject matter.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

View all my Goodreads reviews

River Marked by Patricia Briggs

Name: Krystiana Graham

Grade: 12th grade

Title: River Marked (Book Six in the Mercy Thompson Series)

Author: Patricia Briggs

Review: If you have never read any of the Mercy Thompson series, then you must head directly towards your nearest library and pick up the first in the series, Moon Called. It was an accident when I first got into the Mercy Thompson series. I'd actually read another book by Patricia Briggs, and thought Moon Called was the next one in the series, I'd never been so happy to be wrong. Mercy Thompson is the main character in the series, a Native American (Blackfeet) and Anglo American girl, who can shape shift into a Coyote. She calls herself a walker, and is led to believe that she is the only kind left of her species, do to vampires hunting them out. Raised by werewolves, the marrok's pack, none the less, when Mercy moved to tri-cities, she didn't think she'd get into to much trouble. Unless you count he black witch, the faerie that wanted to kill her, the gray lords, the Queen of the Vampires. The alpha of the pack near her, and his pack members (after all, coyotes and wolves don't get along to well). Ya... no trouble at all. But, none of the past problems are like what she faces in River Marked. Finally her life is suppose to be falling into place. She and Adam are getting married, Adam being the alpha of the Tri-Cities' Pack. And for the honeymoon. They go camping.

Harmless, delightful fun, right? They think so... Until Mercy sees the ghost of her father, then they learn that some fae have manipulated them into coming to the camp site. Then they run into a guy with his foot cut off... And then... Mercy meets more walkers. The story continues, encounters with walkers, with some Indian gods, not to mention the delightful otterkin in the river. Though, nothing is as bad as the real danger hiding under the murky depths of the water. Adam and Mercy are thrown into a world they weren't expecting to be a part of. They're forced to help the Indians they meet along the way, and have to save the world from a creature that will only bring dow the world. And one thing is certain. Under no circumstance, is the River Devil to win this new fight. Allied with only her mate, and alpha werewolf. A handful of walkers, a medicine man, his apprentice, Coyote, and some other Indian gods, Mercy will take on her biggest challenge yet... But you have to read the book if you want to know if she'll survive.

Why I picked up this book: Patricia Briggs has always been a favorite author of mine. I got hooked on her when I read the first book in the Alpha and Omega series, and when I hit it of with the Mercy Thompson series, a companion series, I knew I was in love. Every book that has come out, I make sure I'm one of the first on hold. I'll actually search up on Barnes and Nobles just to find out when it was to come out. So, I was quick about getting this one on hold for me. And when it finally came in, I was more then happy with the next turn of events in Mercy's life.

Why I finished it: It is rare that I never finish a book. Extremely rare. I love reading, and if I hold out long enough I can usually trap myself with in the pages, and get lost in the story. This one was no different - though a bit harder to finish do to an overwhelming about of stuff going on lately. But, never the less, once I got into the book, and had some time to actually finish it, I couldn't put it down. Near midnight last night, I finally closed the book after reading the last page, only to grown when I realized, now I have to wait for the next one. With Patricia Briggs, it isn't the question of 'why I finished?' but 'How long it will take me to finish.'

I'd give this book to: Really, this book has a little bit of everything. Gorgeous werewolves, gay couples, a vampire with an addiction to Scooby Doo, Fae, monsters. You name it. They have it. And, it's the sort of book that anyone can relate to the heroine, because of all of her natural flaws, and strong points. There's a part in the series that will appeal to everyone. So you can't limit the story by saying 'so and so should read this.' or 'people who like this should read it.' No... This is a series for everyone. Besides, if the end of the world is coming, because of the River Devil, we all need to know how to fight her. And this book will give you detailed instructions.

Rating: Five out of Five; for this book. Nothing less fitting for the top quality that Patricia Briggs never fails to deliver.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Name: Caitlin

Grade: 12

Book: The Hunger Games

Author: Suzanne Collins

Katniss Everdeen is a typical girl living in district 12 or maybe not so much. Katniss is an extraordinary girl living in district twelve. She is smart, loving, thick-skinned and will do anything to protect her family. Her personality makes her descision to take her sister's place in the Hunger Games an obvious one. The Hunger games is a horrifying spectacle put on by the oppressive Capitol, an even in which two people from each district are forced to fight and kill to save their own lives: only one can survive. Katniss is soon wrapped up in a game of personal survival in the Hunger Games, fighting to save her own life so she can get back to her family. Of course, nothing is simple in the Hunger Games and soon Katniss finds herself befriending Peeta. Their friendship dims her will to live and soon surpasses that urge; Katniss is soon not so determined to save her own life as she is determined to save his. The horror of the games drags on as Katniss fights for Peeta's survival and soon climaxes with a shocking ending that leaves readers dying to read more.

The Hunger Games was an pretty good book. The reason I don't use fantastic or amazing is simply because the most enthralling part of the book didn't happen until Katniss entered the games. I felt that the book before the games was not nearly as intriguing or exciting as the games themselves. The entire plot within the games, however, was an I-can't-put-this-book-down situation. Collins writes with urgency about Katniss's survival and it pushes the book forward at an alarming rate. The rest of the book paled in comparison to how wonderfully written and composed the Hunger Games were. I loved the idea of Panem, the continent they lived on, and I loved the politics Collins slipped in regarding the Capitol and how it controls it's citizens. Overall, the book was very impressive. I liked it well enough to read the next one and I'm very excited to read the final book in the trilogy. This books was definitely the best book I have read all year in terms of something I couldn't put down.

Why I picked up the book: I thought it was about time I got on the Hunger Games train, if you know what I mean.

Why I finished it: I could not put down

I'd give this books to: Anyone looking for an interesting and fast-paced read. OR anyone into sci-fi or post-apocalyptic stories.

My Rating for this book: ****

Malice

Malice
Chris Wooding

Briana- 12th grade

Malice is unlike any other book I have read. It is half novel, half comic with all the same amount of suspense as a normal book would have. The story opens with a boy named Luke, who tries his hand at an old fable. Legend says that if you say the words six times, and burn the right objects, you will be taken away by a man named Tall Jake, to a different world. Luke recites the words and has suddenly dissappeared the next night. His friends Seth and Katy know that something is fishy, and try to uncover the truth about this "alternate reality" and in doing so encounter many obsticles along the way. Seth soon decides that the only way to uncover this mystery once and for all is to enter the mystery world for himself and try to save Luke- if he is still alive that is... Many horrors await the brave boys and girls who enter the world of Malice, and few ever see real daylight again- many die and are never heard from again, and the poor parents who believe that their children have run away, fear they will never see their little boys and girls again.

I picked up this book because it was for the Library's Teen Book Club, which I attend regularly- and I was interested in reading it since it was different from any other novel I have ever read.

I have not yet finished the book entirely, but I will because it has kept my attention and has been a good read. It is filled with suspense and the characters are continually trying to overcome the newest obsticle .

I would recommend this book to anyone, but it is not for everyone. I have suggested it to a few people, they have started reading it, and have not liked it. On the other hand, I know of some who have read this novel with gusto and have really enjoyed it. If you like suspense and are in need of something a little bit different, I suggest you give this book a try.

Rating: *** Good, I liked it

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, by Mark Twain, is a great American tale about a a crazy kid named Huck, and his black friend Jim. Huck is a wild boy who is uneducated and has no intent to every be civilized. Unfortunately Huck is also burdened by his drunk father and the fact that many people are trying to civilize him. In the end Huck decides to run away. This is the start of his many adventures. On the way he meets up with Jim who seems to also have his own troubles. Together, they both head down the river trying to escape from all their worries. Along their travels they get mixed up in some crazy events and Huck begins to learn a thing or two about himself. It's a great story for anyone who loves good old fashion writing. This book has many great characters that I'm pretty sure everyone can relate to. I read it because Mark Twain has always been a great author. His books go down as some of the best in American History. And that's the reason I finished the book. It's a funny and strange book. I give it a good 4.5 out of 5. The only bad thing that got my attention was that it was written a southern dialog. So it is a very hard book to read. But eventually it grows on you. I recommend it to all teens. Believe me it's a book you can have fun with so get yourself a copy.

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon

Name: Serina

Grade: College

Title: The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon

Author: Stephen King

Nine-year-old Trisha is sick of her mother and her older brother's bickering on their hiking trip. In an attempt to escape them, she goes off the path on her own, planning to meet back up at the trail through a shortcut. However, she accidentally stumbled down an embankment and becomes hopelessly lost. She soon consumes all the food in her pack after being lost for a couple of days, while her mother and brother call out a search party. Trisha's only comfort in the dark and cold of the woods is her walkman, which she uses to listen to the baseball games with her favorite player, Tom Gordon. Eventually, either from the girl being delirious or from supernatural causes, Trisha imagines that Tom Gordon is there with her and he actually speaks to her and gives her advice. With his help she is able to find edible berries and last through the freezing nights alone. However, the longer Trisha is lost, the more she begins to think that her and Tom aren't the only things in the woods. There is something sinister waiting for her in the darkness, watching her as she tries to follow a stream to find civilization. Trisha will have to be careful is she wants to evade what it is that hunts her, but her body is quickly diminishing from starvation and even her hero Tom Gordon may not be able to save her. . .

I picked this book up because Stephen King rocks!

I finished this book because it was very suspenseful.

I'd give this book to any Red Sox fan or any Stephen king fan.

Rating: ****

Malice by Chris Wooding

What are you afraid of?

We’ve all probably heard some form of the urban legend Bloody Mary. There is a ritual which usually includes looking in the mirror and chanting her name a certain number of time. Supposedly you will summon her ghost or spirit in the mirror and she will scratch your face off. But we all know that urban legends are just that. Tales that have been repeated over generations, changed a million times, and are a way of expressing our fears and scaring ourselves. But what if it the rumors and stories weren’t just an urban legend?

“I have to show you something.” Malice is an extremely rare and underground comic book. If you are “lucky” enough to find a copy, once you break the wax seal and take a look, you’ll discover the world inside is filled with your most terrifying and darkest fears, a world of torture and death. The images are so real; the characters so human. They say if you perform the ritual and call on Tall Jake, you too will disappear and find yourself in Malice. But books don’t have that kind of power, or do they? Are you brave enough to discover the world of Malice?

The Ritual:
Put the following ingredients in a small bowl-a black feather, a twig, a knot of cat fur, a tear (a single drop is all that is necessary), and a lock of your own hair. Then add fire and chant six times: “Tall Jake, take me away!”

Why I picked up the book: It was recommended for our Teen Book Club and I hadn't read any teen horror lately (or anything by Wooding.)

Why I finished it: Curiosity. I had to know if they would make it out of Malice alive. Maybe that is why the teens in the book summoned Tall Jake and believed in Malice in the first place.

I'd give it to: Fans of horror, graphic novels, Cirque du Freak. Reluctant readers.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

View all my Goodreads reviews

After Ever AfterAfter Ever After by Jordan Sonnenblick

If you've read Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie, then you might remember Steven's little brother Jeffrey, "That Boy Who Had Cancer". At age four, Jeffrey Alper was diagnosed with cancer and underwent three years of treatment. Although he is in remission and past that critical five year mark, the treatments had residual effects. Jeffrey walks with a limp/drag, and it takes him a bit more time than normal to process information. And much to his father's chagrin, Jeffrey stinks at math. It is now 8th grade and life is throwing all sorts of curveballs. Steven, Jeffrey's brother, has decided to move to Africa to join a drumming circle and find himself. A smokin hot California girl named Lindsey Abraham has moved to NJ and Jeffrey is in love and even more tongue-tied. Oh yeah, and the state of New Jersey has decreed that all 8th graders must pass the state standardized tests in order to graduate and move on to the 9th grade. Jeffrey's best friend Tad is also a cancer survivor. Tad has a plan to tutor Jeffrey and Jeffrey is hoping to get Tad up out of his wheelchair to walk across the stage at graduation. Everyone wants a happily ever after but this is no fairy tale. What really happens After Ever After?

Why I picked up the (audio)book: I loved Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie so I wanted to see how Jeffrey was doing 8 years later. I decided to listen because I loved the narrator Nick Podehl and since it was only a 4 hour recording, I could listen to it driving to work and home.

Why I finished the book: I could listen to Nick Podehl read the stock report and still laugh. I wanted to know if Jeffrey would graduate 8th grade and defeat the horrible beast that is standardized testing.

I'd give it to: fans of DGADP. Guys who want realistic, humorous fiction.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

View all my Goodreads reviews

April's Review: Chaos Walking series by Patrick Ness

The Knife of Never Letting Go (#1)

The Ask and the Answer (#2)

Monsters of Men (#3)

It’s the story of a boy and his dog. Well, no, it’s actually much more than that. It’s the story of New World, where a group of humans came to create utopia. Instead, they created division, war, and secrets.

Todd Hewitt is about to become a man. He lives in Prentisstown, where everyone hears each other’s Noise, all the time. Even animals have Noise. Todd’s dog, Manchee, is his closest friend. All the other boys in Prentisstown have become men, and they no longer speak to Todd. Soon, he will learn what they know.

For now, all Todd knows is that when he was a baby, his father and mother (and all the other women of Prentisstown) were killed in the war against the Spackle, the native inhabitants of New World. He has been raised by two men, who were close friends of his parents. His whole life, all 13 years of it, has been filled with farm chores and Noise. As Ness writes, “The Noise is a man unfiltered, and without a filter, a man is just chaos walking.”

When everything Todd knows is turned upside down, he must flee with Manchee. He begins an adventure across New World, with his new companion, Viola. Together they must learn what is true, and fight for what they know is right. You won’t be able to put down the books until you find out what happens to Todd, Viola, and all of New World.

Why I picked this book: After finishing the Hunger Games trilogy, I needed another can’t-put-down trilogy to get me through the holidays. And guess what? It worked. I finished all three books in less than a week – that’s a grand total of 1,600 pages.

Why I finished it: I got hooked. The pace is fast, and at the end of every chapter, you want to read just one more. With so many things happening at once, there’s always a detail left hanging.

Who I would give this book to: Anyone who likes a good story with a fast pace and realistic characters in a fantasy-like world, and who has a week to devote to these books.

Rating: ****

Vote Now!! through March 11 for the Soaring Eagle Book Award

Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott

Once upon a time there was a little girl who had a perfect life, with two parents who would never dream of hurting her. That little girl didn’t know how lucky she was. During a field trip to an aquarium she met a man who would change her life, her name, her soul forever. She would become a hollow shell of a person, a Living Dead Girl. Once upon a time that little girl’s name wasn’t Alice and she wasn’t Ray’s little girl. Once upon a time that little girl’s life ended and her worst nightmare began.

Why I picked up the book: The original hardback cover-with the white dress laying on dried leaves and jean leg.

Why I finished it: It is probably one of the only books I've read in one sitting (twice). The writing style intrigued me and I couldn't get Alice out of my head. I couldn't leave her alone without knowing what ultimately happened to her and if she was ever able to escape.

I'd give it to: anyone (teens, parents, teachers) who has a tough stomach. By no means is this an easy book to read but the content is timely. Within the past five years, several kidnapping victims have been found and many people, including the media, have speculated on why they never tried to escape.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

View all my Goodreads reviews

The Scarlet Letter

Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter is the tale of Hester Prynne. She is a woman who is convicted of adultery when she mysteriously has a baby, but no husband has been seen in over two years. This book is read all over the United States because it shows the cruelty of when people judge one another. Hester's punishment for committing adultery is to wear a scarlet letter A on her chest until the day she dies. All in all it is a very nice book with very creative characters. However it has a very long story that, though interesting, becomes very droll fast. I give it a solid 8 out of 10. If you're a person who loves the old style of writing and a great mysterious story plot then this is for you.

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

"We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union...."

By now, we all recognize these words from the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. What do they mean to you and other Americans? Did they always seek to guarantee the rights and freedoms of everyone living on American soil? Did those who fought for our freedom from the British not see the irony of the slavery occurring on their own soil?

Isabel is a teenage slave girl living in the New York in 1776, at the brink of the Revolutionary War. For her, freedom is an unobtainable dream, stolen away by those with money, power, and a lighter color of skin. But the chains that bind Isabel to servitude cannot restrain her dreams and her iron will. She soon comes to realize that "If an entire nation could seek its freedom, why not a girl?"

Why I picked up this book: The book is part of the "We the People" bookshelf grant ("A More Perfect Union") that our library received and we are using it for our middle school book club. I enjoy the author's work, both historical fiction & realistic, so I would have eventually made my way to reading Chains.

Why I finished the book: I wanted to know if Isabel would ever break free from the Locktons and the chains of slavery. Would she get caught on her secret spy missions and what would Madam do to harm her? I was secretly plotting what Isabel could do to retaliate against Madam.

I'd give it to: readers young & old looking for quality historical fiction. Readers who aren't afraid to confront tough topics and look critically at American history, because it isn't always pretty. Sarah, who loved Fever 1793.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

View all my Goodreads reviews


Chains: The Music Video (Fooyboys/YouTube)

Red Riding Hood

Name: Krystiana Graham

Grade: 12th

Title: Red Riding Hood

Author: Sarah Blakley-Cartwright (Introduction by Catherine Hardwicke)

Review: Who doesn't like a good book with mystery, werewolves, girls in red cloaks... Oh wait... You're thinking of that fairy tale? Little Red Riding Hood... Oh no, puppets. This is the real deal. This is the story they don't want you to know about. Valerie is the girl behind that red cloak though, a teenager living in a city plagued by a werewolf simply called The Wolf. Sacrifices happen monthly, in an effort to keep the Wolf from them. But... this month is different. This story is set during the Blood Moon. And during this moon, no one is safe from the Wolf. Blakley-Cartwright shows a unique twist to the old fable of little red riding hood, introducing new, never see characters. A blacksmith, A sister, the towns folks. Best friends. Yet, it continues to show where threads of the fable mix with this book, giving it the generic plot line of the werewolf and girl. The woodcutter (or a version of him anyways) the grandmother....

The story begins with a festival of sorts that goes astray when Valerie's perfect sister dies, leaving Valerie lost in her own world. Her best friends attempt to keep her company. Her fiance tries to cheer her up. But nothing works, not really, until Valerie has a run in with an old friend, Peter. Do to the death of Valerie's sister, the men soon get together, from this tiny village, in an attempt to hunt down the wolf who has caused them ill for so long. But, Valerie, who had seen the wolf once before, has an odd connection with the wolf. A connection that makes her realize that the dead wolf the men bring back isn't the wolf they should be after. When a foreign priest comes to the village, however, he soon shows them the wrong of their ways, when during the celebration party for the wolf's death, the real Wolf strikes back.

It is during this party that Valerie comes to realize how deep this connection of hers is with the wolf, and just why the wolf is coming out during the blood moon. The story is set around Valerie, explaining the tale as she sees it. Illustrating forbidden romances, deaths of loved ones, and near death herself. It shows what one may give up for true happiness, and shows the ultimate sacrifice, and how that can move the people originally fighting against you. But, if you want to know the secrets behind what exactly happens towards the end of this book. You must pick it up yourself. Unless you're a cheater, then you can just go see it in theaters. For, like many other books of late, Red Riding Hood is going to be in a theater near you soon.

Why I picked this book up: Like most of my books, this is actually a book my mom picked out. And, when I saw it I had a heart attack. I love the faerie tale remakes, reading other people's versions of the fables I grew up with. And this one definitely didn't disappoint.

Why I finished it: I have always loved Little Red Riding Hood, granted not as much as Beauty and the Beast, but it has always been a favorite, so I had to read it. But I finished it because it was absolutely amazing... and I have to read a book before I go see the movie. I like knowing what they don't show.

I'd give this book too: Anyone who loves faerie tales, fables, werewolves, fantasy romance, and anyone who wants a good book. This book expertly crosses over so many lines of interest that anyone can pick up this book and fall in love with it.

Rating: *****/5 It was to good to be anything less.

Slice of Cherry

Name: Serina

Grade: 12+

Title: Slice of Cherry

Author: Dia Reeves

Murder is in sisters Kit and Fancy's blood. Their father, who had acquired the nickname the 'bonesaw' killer from sawing his victims into multiple pieces in the privacy of his basement, was convicted as a serial killer after police found forensic evidence. Kit and Fancy are determined not to follow in his path- as in they will make sure not to get caught... But wild spirited Kit, the older of the two girls, may have a hunger for cutting people up that may eventually get herself and Fancy in trouble. Fancy wants a way to kill without being conspicuous, and she thinks she may have found it when her great ancestor Cherry comes to her in a vision and tells her she can use a key to go to a place where Fancy and Kit can carry out their messy habits with no watching eyes. It seems only natural, because Fancy has a gift, the ability to see other worlds in random objects, like the old kinetoscope in their father's basement. But while the sisters enjoy getting blood on their hands, their closeness is slowly falling apart because of Kit's boy obsession and wish for true love. Fancy worries that Kit will disappear from her forever if she does not do something soon. So she entices Kit with the prospect that they can 'take out the trash' of their city Portero by stashing the criminals' bodies in the dream world Fancy sees in the kinetoscope, thanks to Cherry's advice. But will it be enough for the sisters to keep their bond shared in blood?

I picked this book up because it had teacups spilling blood on the cover.

I finished this book because it was too bizarre and enticing not to.

I'd give this book to any fan of morbid scenes or possibly people who like the TV series "Dexter."

Rating: **** Really liked it

Trickster's Choice

Trickster's Choice by Tamora Pierce
Briana: 12th grade
Aly, daughter of Tortall's famous Lioness warrior and untraceable spy and thief, is of fabled lineage, but is forced to disquise herself when she is captured by merchanaries. Aly is visited during her enslavement by none other than the trickster god, who gives her the task of guiding two young women- one of whom is foretold to bring an end to the cruel dynasty in which they live. Sarai is passionate and charming, a teenage noblewoman who is more concerned in what she wears and who she sees than believing in the prophecy set before her, where as her younger sister, Dove, has a calculating mind and hidden depths that Aly fears, knows that she is ment for something better than being her sister's "right hand man". While in enslavement, Aly is forced to teach these girls, prepare them for the world and the burden they share, but is unable to do it herself. Nawat, a crow turned human, but not quite a man- loves Aly and knows she is fearful, and he does whatever in his power he can to ease her burden. Throughout the story, Aly is visited by the trickster god and is constantly reminded of her task, and the awful horrors that will ensure should she not finish her goal.

Aly is a strong character that the reader loves right from the beginning, and while reading, you can feel her frustration and her pain, her joy and her love. I enjoyed this novel because it is very well written and is extremely entertaining. I like the espionage and trickery, but also have a soft spot for the romance in the story. I picked up this book to read for fun, and became enthralled with the story and with Tamora Pierce's style of writing.

I finished the book, and was ready for the next one, which was also very good.

I would give this novel to anyone who is in need of a fun book to read. It is a great "time-killer" book and it is very easy to get lost in the pages. No matter what style of books you like, or your age, or your background, I would suggest this book- or at least one of Tamora Pierce's other novels.

***** This was an EXCELLENT novel!

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

Name: Caitlin

Grade: 12

Book: The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

An internship at a high-profile magazine is a stressful job- stressful and completely boring; at least that's Esther Greenwood's o[pinion of it. Esther Greenwood is an average person living in the 1960s, spending her time working, studying, going to school, and trying to find a nice boy to marry. Going through all of these norms, however, don't affect Esther the way they would affect most. The Bell Jar is about Esther's descent into madness and her eventual recovery from it. This books is considered an essential book to read and I would have to agree.
The book is written beautifully and starkly from Esther's point of view. Plath does not try to hide anything or give the reader any niceties about any situation. At one point in the book, Esther and many of the other character receive food poisoning that results in a vomiting sickness. After reading it, I was left with absolutely no appetite. Plath does a wonderful job of making Esther's opinions and thoughts tangible, as if the reader themselves is feeling and thinking them. It fascinating because Esther's madness is both obvious and undetectable at the same time; Esther doesn't think much anything of her morbid thoughts or peculiar behaviors, but to the reader it's blatant that Esther is not in any way alright.

I loved this book. I didn't realize how difficult it would be to put into words how much I enjoyed it because it was so excellently written. Plath really does a spectacular job of dragging the reader along without the reader noticing. The passages were, not unexpectedly, gorgeously written. Esther's madness is so tangible that it's almost as if it wasn't her under the bell jar, but you. The Bell Jar has definitely become one of my favorite books and I plan on reading it again, probably several times.

Why I picked up the book: I bought it on a whim at a used book store and one day decided to read it.

Why I finished it: It was so, so, so difficult for me to put it down. How could I not?

I'd give this book to: A very limited group of people. The book is very disturbing and very real. This books would be particularly good for people struggling with depression of their own or for people who love reading about morbid subjects.

I wouldn't give this book to: Anyone looking for a bright, happy book. This is really not it.


My Rating for this book: *****