Kaitlin
11th
Keeper
By: Mal Peet
Paul Faustino is interviewing El Gato about his World Cup win. As he tells him about this life, he starts with his father's life as a logger and how he was always supposed to follow in his footsteps. When Faustino asks about how El Gato got involved in soccer, he tells Faustino the story of "The Keeper".  He explains that he was wandering through the rain forest and found a clearing when he was a teenager, and at the end of the clearing was a soccer goal. And out steps a man who is to be know to El Gato as "The Keeper". This story tells about the mystery that is "The Keeper"and El Gato. I picked up this book because my soccer coach recommended it to me, and I finished it because I  wanted to learn the truth of it all. I would give this book to any young athlete out there looking for some inspiration and fellowship. I would give this book 4 stars! ****

The Hobbit

Name: Serina

Grade: 12+

Title: The Hobbit

Author: J.R.R. Tolkien

Hobbits are about the least likely people to ever do anything extraordinary. They live their lives full of comfortable things like their warm homes, smoking pipes, and second suppers. But the Hobbit Bilbo Baggins is destined for an adventure, whether he wants anything to do with one or not, when a wandering wizard by the name of Gandalf quite suddenly arrives at his door one fine morning. Not much after, Bilbo soon finds his house brimming with dwarves, who demand he accompany them on their journey to make their unlucky number of thirteen people into the lucky number fourteen. The Dwarves tell Bilbo of the perils their ancestors had suffered at the hands of a dragon named Smaug and of the large hoard of gold that he had stolen from them. Their ultimate quest to take back what is theirs, or die trying. They dub the reluctant Hobbit their 'Burglar,' or as he prefers, 'an expert treasure hunter.' A part of Bilbo actually longs for adventure, though he would never admit it as it is very un-hobbit-like, and he decides to join the dwarves and the wizard Gandalf for the long and dangerous journey, one he stands gain everything on, or lose everything, in which they deal with trolls, goblins, dragons, and a mysterious ring of power that can turn its wearer invisible.

I picked this book up because I loved The Lord of the Rings

I finished this book because it was easy to read as well as entertaining.

I'd give this book to any Middle Earth fan.

Rating: **** Really liked it

Escape from memory

Reader's Name: Michelle Sherwin
Grade 12+
Book Title: Escape From Memory
Author: Margaret Peterson Haddix

Hypnosis seemed like a very harmless way for Kira and her friends to pass the time late one night at a slumber party, but when she wakes up from the hypnosis her friends begin to question her about a different language that she is speaking and why she was talking about a different country she had lived in as an infant. It did not make sense to her at all, because as far as she had known she had lived in California prior to her moving. Things get stranger when her mother who refuses to drive a car or own a computer also refuses to answer any of her questions and only says she is thankful that there was not more that she remembered. Kira begins to decide that she needs to find out for herself what her mother refuses to tell her. Kira comes up empty handed except for a safety deposit key until her mother does not come home one day from work and takes a moths leave without letting Kira know anything. Still puzzled and furious at her mother for keeping things from her she finds a note telling her to take the car that hasn't been driven in 13 years and go live with her friend until her mother gets back in a house that is left in total disaray. In a mix of confusion, defiance, lack of trust in herself and the old car, and a want to know more about her mother she decides not to do it. She is then visited by a woman who will only identify herself as Aunt Memory. This Aunt Memory is a peculiar person who tells Kira of a strange land hidden in California. She also explains that her parents have both passed away and that the person she calls mother is really not her mother at all. She insists Kira must give a speech begging them to release the person she has been calling mom for 13 years. She does not know  anything of this culture or the way that it works beyond what her Aunt Memory has told her, but she is told that her mother and father were great people in this land and the mere sound of her name will make everyone in the country respect her. She is given her old room and all the best things she can ask for in a day. Kira doubted this very much and refused to go through with it partially by the advice of her friend who had come along for the ride when she sensed Kira was in danger. Furious Aunt Memory throws her in prison.  Now Kira, her mother and her friend all find themselves in a prison cell in the middle of a ruined country not even known by the rest of the world. Will they make it out of this prison and live to tell the tale? Will Kira be able to find her true self in the midst of all the lies and broken pieces of memory that she has? Will any of them ever be the same again? Follow Kira and the others through it all in Escape from Memory.

I liked this book because of the style and form of it. There was never a dull moment in the book where I considered not finishing it. I found that every time I tried to predict something about the book my predictions would be turned upside down. I also found this book questioned the way memory worked and what truly makes us who we are. I had the same problem with this book as I have with many other of Haddix's books. The ending does not wrap itself up in a neat little bow like other books. It leaves the reader questioning what might happen next and what road the characters will take from there. Haddix always does a wonderful job of leaving the reader wanting more or imagining what might happen next.

I was drawn to this book for a few reasons. First of all since it was a Haddix book I had a feeling I would like it since I have loved so many of her other works. I also saw when I first picked it up that it was going to have an interesting story line simply because of the title and the cover.

I finished the book because from the very first page that the story was going to be interesting and carry me along. I also found that once I picked the book up I could hardly put it down because it was thrilling and brought me right into the story.

I would give this book to anyone who has read and enjoyed one of Haddix's books before. I would also give it to someone who likes a thrilling book and has plenty of free time to read it because if they enjoyed it as much as me they would want to read it straight through.

My rating for this book is: *****

Theodore Boone: The Accused (#3) by John Grisham

Have you ever had a bad day and just wished you could have a do-over? Theo's had a bad week and it only seems to be going downhill as the minutes tick by. Monday was supposed to be the first day of the re-trial of Pete Duffy, the man accused of murdering his wife. Theo helped to bring a surprise witness to the court's attention earlier, which resulted in a mistrial. Theo was lucky enough to get excused from school to watch the new trial but Duffy never showed up and is now a fugitive. When Theo returned to school, he noticed that items were missing from his locker and after school he finds his bike tire slashed. The next day his other bike tire falls victim. Before he gets the opportunity to report these incidents, someone throws a rock through the window at his parent's office while he is sitting at the desk.

Wednesday morning Theo is met at school by two detectives. The night before, an electronics store was robbed. Theo was seen in the vicinity on his way home from the shelter where he was volunteering and is now a suspect. The fact that stolen goods are also found in his locker makes him look very guilty. While everyone who knows him says he is innocent, the police don't agree, especially as the evidence mounts and continues to point at Theo.

If Theo didn't do it, who did? And why would someone want Theodore Boone in jail? How far would you go to prove your innocence and no longer be the accused?

Why I picked up the book: I enjoyed the first two in the series and wanted to know if the Duffy trial would ever happen and be resolved.

Why I finished the book: It was a fast read plus it is a great dose of Grisham, while still reading YA. I wanted to know how/if the cops would find the real thief.

I'd give it to: boys, fans of mysteries and those who like Grisham's novels but want them light.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi

Nailer is a ship breaker. He lives in the region of the US, formerly the Gulf Coast, and spends his days climbing through the duct work of old ships, scavenging for copper wire and any other scrap that could be sold, and dreaming of one day owning and sailing clipper ships. When a horrible hurricane devastates the beach where Nailer lives, he and friend Pima discover a wrecked clipper ship. This could be the opportunity they have been waiting for. They could make a fortune off of the wreckage. But the discovery of a beautiful, rich, and undead girl leaves Nailer in a bind. Should he attempt to save her, and risk losing the wealth to be made from the materials in the wreckage? 

Why I picked up the book: It won the Printz Award in 2011 so it has been on my to-read-someday list. The teacher book club I participate in is reading it so I have a great reason to read it.

Why I finished it: This isn't my typical reading choice but I was hooked. I wanted to know how, or if, they would survive the horrible weather. I was hoping for answers as to what happened to our world for it to end up this way.

I'd give it to: fans of science-fiction, possibly reads who enjoyed "The Maze Runner" due to the unique language in that world. Fans of dystopian, where characters are struggling to survive and technology is non-existent.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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War Horse by Michael Morpurgo

When Albert's father buys young Joey at an auction, Albert becomes the only human who can tame, lead, and train him. So when Albert's father sells Joey to the army, both Joey and Albert are distraught. Albert promises to find him and bring him home. Will Joey survive the horrors of World War I and find his way back to Albert? Discover the life of a "War Horse".

Why I picked up the book: Afternoon Book Club group wants to read it for either a book club or "read it see it", so I had to preview. In one sitting, I'm halfway through and am liking it. It wouldn't normally be my first choice of reading material, but I will definitely finish it.

Why I finished it: It is a fast read. I found myself forgetting the narrator was a horse. I know very little about World War I and like Joey, I found myself hoping it will end soon and he will make it back to Albert or Emilie.

I'd give it to: middle schoolers, especially those looking for horse stories. I liked the fact that the narrator is the horse, which you don't see very often.  I'd also give it to guys who want a historical fiction/war novel, especially if they want World War I.  I would give it to readers who enjoyed "Cracker: The Best Dog in Vietnam" by Cynthia Kadohata

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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Sketchy Behavior by Erynn Mangum

Kate Carter doesn't like to be noticed. She'd rather spend her time at home sketching and trying to finish the Crispix before they get soggy. But a surprise assignment in art class turns Kate's quiet routine world upside down. When Miss Yeager brings in Detective Masterson, the idea was to give her high school students more information about art careers, and this time specifically about becoming a forensic sketch artist. Detective Masterson brings what is assumed to be a sample witness statement of the perpetrator. But Kate's drawing turns out to be spot-on for the fugitive in the state's biggest crime. John X has been killing women in surrounding counties and the only witness says Kate's drawing matches the man. John X is captured but after her identity is leaked to the press, is Kate safe?

Why I picked up the book: I really like the author's adult works, the Maya Davis & Lauren Holbrook trilogies, and really wanted to see how she did with a YA novel.

Why I finished it: It is a fast read and pretty predictable. That said, I wanted to know whether or not Kate would be safe from John X.

I'd give it to: readers who like Meg Cabot (especially All-American girl) and John Grishman (Theodore Boone). The book isn't overly heavy on the Christianity, which might drawn in more readers.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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Kaitlin
10th grade
Night Road
By: Kristin Hannah

Jude Farrady lives in a quiet community with her husband and twins, Mia and Zach.  Judy is what you call an overprotective mom, who wants her teens to succeed and go to college.  Then the girl with shady past, Lexi Baill, moves to town and becomes best friends with Mia.  It doesn't take Zach and Lexi long to fall in love and the three become intertwined.  Then one night when the trio is eighteen everything changes.

I picked up this book because it was recommended by my mom. I finished this book because I had to find out how it ended. I give Night Road *****  Add it to your summer reading list.

The Help

Name: Serina

Grade: 12+

Title: The Help

Author: Kathryn Stockett

Jackson Mississippi is probably just about the least exciting town in all the United States. At least until twenty-two-year old Skeeter gets an idea that she just can't seem to shake. She has just graduated college and wants to make it as an author, but writing the book she has in mind could be very conflicting and also very dangerous. She wants to interview the help, African American women that are often underpaid and mistreated by their white employers. Skeeter doesn't know if anyone would ever even want to read such a thing, but she feels compelled to write by her lost maid Constantine, who raised her and then disappeared while she was off at college. Skeeter first contacts Aibileen, the maid of her friend, and eventually Aibileen agrees to tell her story. But they will have to keep their meetings secret and coax other maids into contributing, even when it could mean the end of their jobs, or possibly their lives.

In this inspirational, painfully real book, the reader can get a taste of the joys and pains of the African American workers that spent their lives raising other people's children and doing their work, known simply as The Help. The book rotates through three key characters: Skeeter, a young white girl out to try and change the poor conditions of Jackson Mississippi; Aibileen, an older, thoughtful woman who has raised sixteen white children and is on her seventeenth, even when her own son is dead; and Minny, a sassy woman that always speaks her mind. Together, they tell the story of what life was like in 1962 and how they all had the hope and the courage to try and change it.

I picked this book up because I thought it sounded interesting.

I finished this book because it was funny, moving, and also heartbreaking.

I'd give this book to just about anyone.

Rating: ***** It was amazing!

Walden

Name: Eric

Grade: 12+

Title: Walden

Author: Henry David Thoreau

I'm sure there are literary professors and English majors who might string me up for writing such blasphemy about an American classic. However, I shall still venture to say that "Walden", by Henry David Thoreau, is not what its cracked up to be.

"Walden" is about Thoreau's adventure into the wild. He decides that society is a sad thing and believes that by going back to nature, he will discover happiness and peace. Thoreau does this all at Walden Pond, where he lives in a small cabin among the animals.


While this interesting experiment is going on, Thoreau manages to insult most of the human race in the first 10 pages. The general feeling I got was that he is above us all; he is enlightened, to the point of almost divine status, while we consumers of the world are lower on the scale than squirrels. Thoreau really drives this point in by the way he writes; unless you are indeed an English professor, I truly do not believe you understand most of what he writes. I had a dictionary next to me, which I was forced to open and peruse every 3 words.


Walden is a long and dreary tale of one man's effort to stoke his ego, and prove to the rest of the world just how smart he is. If going to Walden Pond gets me away from this novel, then I'd be glad to go.

I picked this book up because I had to read it for a class.

I finished this book because I had too. That is the ONLY reason.

I'd give this book to someone who loves 19th century writers, or is an English major.
My rating: *

The Penny Whistle B.J.Hoff

Readers Name: Michelle Sherwin

Grade: 12th

Book Title: The Penny Whistle

Author: B.J. Hoff

This story begins with a slightly ill school teacher coming to a small town to teach students there. He had not brought a lot with him and did not have much money so he fit in with the poverty of the town he was teaching in. He did not get a very good welcome from the towns people when shortly after he had moved there his silver flute was stolen. He had many different kinds of children in his class. A sickly little girl, many very poor people, several sets of siblings and even the town doctors daughter. He cares for all of them and takes note of everyone and how each of them are. His health begins to decline more rapidly when, despite the towns attempts to search for the silver flute, they come up empty handed. One of the girls suggests that the whole class take up a collection to buy a new flute and to get the help of their parents and take extra jobs on as they could to make the money for the flute. They had gotten close to raising enough to possibly make a down payment on the flute when a widow had been found and it was discovered that she had not eaten for days and had no coal for the fire. At the same time there was a family from the school whose mother had just had a child and they were both very ill and close to death. With this their teacher asks them to donate whatever they can, but no one has anything to give because all of their money has gone towards the flute. There is a debate over what to do with the money. Should they continue to try to get a flute or should they forfeit their money to give it to those who need food and medicine? Find out what the children decide in The Penny Whistle. 

There were several things that I liked about this book. One of my favorite things was the fact that this book was centered so largely around religion. Throughout the entire book both the children and their teacher get inspiration from scripture. Another thing that I like is how much each person depends on one another to help them through everything. I did not care for the simplicity of the story line at times because there were times where it was very easy to see what was coming, but it was always followed by a twist in the story that helped it to move along. 

I picked up this book because it was a book my great grandma had loaned to me and eventually gave to me many years ago. I had read it once when I first got it, but had not read it since. I ran across it a while ago and decided I should read it again for the sake of remembering both the story and my great grandma. 

 I finished the book because with every new and sometimes expected event there was always a twist to pull me along and see what was going to happen next.

I'd give this book to someone who truly enjoyed older literature and an older time setting. I would give it to someone who enjoyed reading the scriptures as well since this has many references both directly and indirectly to it. 

My rating for this book is : *****

Everneath by Brodi Ashton

Six months ago Nikki Bennett made a life changing decision. She became a Forfeit and followed Dead Elvis' guitarist Cole to the Everneath for the Feed. She was with him for 100 years, which was only six months on Earth. Most Forfeits lose their memories and are left to the Tunnels. But somehow Nikki survived and has returned to the Surface to find Jack, the one face she couldn't forget. She has six months and then the Tunnels will come for her. The only way around that is if Nikki chooses to be with Cole, become an Everliving, and challenge the Queen for the throne.  If you spent 100 years longing for your true love, would six months be enough to truly say goodbye? In the blink of an eye, it will be time to return to the Everneath.

Why I picked up the book: I normally don't read a lot of paranormal since it really sells itself. However I found out this one was written by the relative of a relative so I wanted to try it.

Why I finished it: It was well written, fast-paced, and I wanted to know how Nikki would say goodbye. I definitely will read the sequels.

I'd give it to: fans of paranormal romance (like Twilight) and mythology (especially Persephone). This will be a trilogy, although it is unclear when #2 Everbound will be released. Teens and adults would like this one.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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Delivered with LoveDelivered with Love by Sherry Kyle

Claire James has had a rough few years. She took care of her mother, Emily, while she was dying of cancer and now Claire is 22, with no real place in the world. She's working a blah waitressing job and living with her older sister and brother-in-law, who is an alcoholic and steals all her money. After getting fired and then kicked out of the house, Claire makes a decision that will change her life. On the day of her mother's funeral a year ago, Claire found an old love letter in the glove box of her mother's cherished VW beetle. The letter was signed only with an initial but had a return address. Claire wants to make her way from L.A. to Capitola and find the mystery writer of the letter. Claire stumbles and bumps (literally) her way into the lives of many who help guide her journey and when she finally reaches the address, she finds the apartment is for rent. What does the future hold for Claire? Will she find the mystery writer and what surprises will she learn about her mother and herself? 

Why I picked up the book: The cover looked fun and we were going on vacation to California so it seemed like the perfect beach read! (although I didn't actually read it until we got back.)

Why I finished it: It was a quick, fast, fun read. There were a few too many coincidences but those who read and enjoy Christian fiction won't be bothered by them.

I'd give it to: fans of chick-lit Christian fiction. Readers (probably girls, high school or adult) looking for a fun, fresh, sweet story with a hint of love.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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A Stolen Life by Jaycee Dugard

On the morning of June 10, 1991, eleven-year-old Jaycee Dugard was abducted on her way to the bus stop and simply vanished. Eighteen years later, on August 29, 2009, Jaycee was "found". This is Jaycee's story of her incredible survival.

Why I picked up the book: I'd been wanting to read it since it was released. I like reading memoirs, true crime, and "celebrity" stories. This one was particularly interesting because she is my age and I can't imagine having survived.

Why I finished it: Jaycee tells her story very openly and candidly. I was sucked in. I could feel her heartbreak, fear, and survival instincts. I read it on the way home from vacation and it was a very quick read. As a parent (and someone who works with teens) the book made me think about not only how hard it would be to lose your child but also how hard Jaycee struggled to protect her children, born into that awful situation, but still so innocent, precious, and worthy of life.

I'd give it to: older teens and adults. The book is very inspirational and a true tale of survival. Warning: there is some language and violence/rape.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

SPOILER ALERT: Don't read this review if you haven't read The Hunger Games or Catching Fire.

When we last saw Katniss, the Mockingjay had been lifted out of the arena into a hovercraft and whisked away from the Quarter Quell leaving readers with many questions.

Who rescued her and where did they take her? Who else survived? Where the rumors of District 13's survival true? And most importantly, who does Katniss really love?

In war, it can often be hard to determine who is victim and who is the aggressor as well as who ultimately wins and loses.

Why I picked up the book: I waited until now to read it, giving the excuse that I had a new baby when it was released in 2010 and couldn't recall the details from the first two books. I reread the series now since the Hunger Games movie was just released.

Why I finished it: Now I realize it was because like with other great series, (ie. Harry Potter), I wasn't ready to let go. Amazingly in two years I only heard one spoiler and it was a month ago. Even knowing that piece of information, I still had to know how it would happen. And it was probably for the better that I knew or I might have either flung the book across the room or bawled my eyes out.

I know some people didn't like this installment as well as the others but I'd give it either a 4.5 or 5. It didn't have the same action packed suspense as HG or CF, yet you get to see Katniss grown into herself and realize her affect on others. As she hears what Delly and others say, I found myself reflecting on how others might view me as opposed to how I view myself... very important for teens to read and see in their own lives.

I loved Collins' clear picture of the horrors of war and power. Haymitch's quote to Katniss near the end about the horrors of war and humans being fickle and selfish was great (p379).

Even thought it wasn't quite a typical beach/vacation read, I'm glad I took it and took the time to absorb it. Letting go of Katniss won't happen easily (just like with Harry & crew). I will definitely read this series again.

I'd give it to: teen and adult fans of the series.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

(SPOILER ALERT. If you haven't read the Hunger Games, don't read this review.)

As we all know, Katniss & Peeta became the first dual winners of the 74th Hunger Games.  And while many in Panem are excited and re-energized by this feat, the Capitol and President Snow are not impressed. They view Katniss' stunt with the berries as rebellion.  They also don't buy the story of Katniss and Peeta as star-crossed lovers.

As Katniss and Peeta prepare for their Victory Tour, set midway between the games, President Snow pays Katniss a surprise visit and leaves her with a threat.  Either convince the Capitol and all of Panem that you are madly in love with Peeta, or those you love with die, starting with Gale.  He also informs Katniss that her "stunt" at the Games has set off a chain reaction of rebellion throughout the Districts.  She must not fan those flames or else.

How can you smoulder a spark you didn't even mean to light, especially when you, a poor coal-miner's daughter, have become the symbol of hope for a generation? Katniss better figure it out and fast.  Especially since the Quarter Quell is approaching... and every 25 year anniversary of the Hunger Games holds it's own special treat for Panem.  And this year's twist will no doubt leave everyone on the edge of their seats.

Why I picked up the book: Seems like a silly question. I read it the first time because I loved HG and had to know what happens next. This time I'm rereading the series because the movie came out and I hadn't ever read Mockingjay because I couldn't remember the details.

Why I finished it: It is one of those series that you can't put down. Once you are in the arena, you find yourself fighting to survive.

I'd recommend it to: fans of Hunger Games and dystopian. Teens and adults alike. If you liked the movie but haven't read the books, pick them up!

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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