Hays Public Library - Young Adult Department |
1205 Main - Hays, Kansas 67601 |
785-623-4944 |
Books Reviewed:
Alphabetical by Title
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
by Sherman Alexie
Review by Mohan P.
5/5
I liked this book because it was about a boy and what he went through in high school. Arnold Spirit, Jr. lived on an Indian Reservation. He went to an all-white school 22 miles from his reservation. I will be attending a new high school this fall. I hope my first year is better than his.
Review by Sarah L.
3/5
The book was appealing to Young Adults because of the way the characters talked. There wasn’t any real action and it was pretty much a day by day memoir. The pictures were helpful and funny brought the book to life. Gave some perspective on what a real Indian on a reservation may feel like.
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
I liked how it showed me what the Indian reservations are really like. The characters seemed more real because they didn't have a perfect little life. It was also funny at times.
ADD/ADHD
by Jonas Pomere
Review by Tyra G.
3/5
It gave a lot of information on ADD and ADHD. I also like the order the information was in.
Alanna Lioness Rampart
by Tamora Pierce
Review by Mina R.
Five out of five crowns. It's a really good book. Also, is very detailed and has an interesting plot. Is about a lady knight and her action filled adventures. Has a good and triumphant ending.
The Amazing Days of Abby Hayes: The More, the Merrier
by Anne Mazer
Review by Rachel L.
3/5
It was about this girl (Abby) paints her entire room purple because it’s her favorite color and I thought that was a little weird. But she has an entire party for her class for the end of the year. So that was cool.
The Amazing Days of Abby Hayes: Some Things Never Change
by Anne Mazer
Review by Rachel L.
3/5
I think the book was kind of sad for the Abby character because her best friend moved. When she came to visit Abby she was a totally different person. And then Abby and her former best friend weren't really friends in the end. So…it was a little disappointing.
The Amber Spyglass
by Philip Pullman
Review by Samantha W
5/5
I felt this was a very good ending for the “His Dark Materials” trilogy. I would highly recommend this trilogy. Be prepared to sit for a while, because you won’t be able to put it down.
American Born Chinese
by Gene Luen Yang
Review by Scott, Assistant YA Department Head
4/5
Gene Luen Yang says a lot in simple wordless panels of his graphic novel, American Born Chinese. That’s not to say this book is without dialogue, there’s plenty, but his simple understated drawings speak volumes all by themselves. At times the dialogue and text get in the way of the universal story of the search for identity.
Still, the intertwining stories of Jin Wang, the only Chinese-American kid in school, The Monkey King, who thinks he is more like a god than a king, and Chin-Kee, a caricature of negative Asian stereotypes, are about as honest and hilarious as stories come these days.
Angus, Thongs, and Full-Frontal Snogging
by Louise Renninson
Review by Wendy Z.
4/5
I liked this book because the girl in the book was not like me in any way. I still liked how she did some crazy things. It was an interesting book.
Archimedes
by Susan Keating
Review by Mohan P.
Five out of five crowns. I really liked the book. It was short and factual. The book is about Archimedes and his contributions to science. First he invented the screw which helped farmers water their crops faster and easier. Then he invented the catapult and the revolting crane. The revolting crane could flip ships. Archimedes discovered the theory of displacement while taking a bath at a public bath house. He jumped out of the bath and even without stopping to dress, he ran out of the room shouting "Eureka! Eureka!" (meaning "I have found it". He was later murdered.
Avalon High
by Meg Cabot
Review by Megan Z.
5/5
It was very exciting, and great throughout.
Backstage Pass
by Gaby Triana
Review by Megan Z.
5/5
The book was funny, romantic, and had very relatable characters.
Bad Monkeys
by Matt Ruff
Review by Scott, Asst. Head of the YA Dept.
4/5
Matt Ruff's thriller about the fine line between good and evil isn't amazing. The writing is kind of sub-par. But as a thriller and that meditation between good and evil, it's quite the ride. And a bizarre ride at that.
See what starts out as an interrogation of a girl, who may be crazy, who has just killed someone, quickly becomes something else entirely. She works for a secret organization that kills truly evil people. Only they kill them with these crazy toy guns which give people heart attacks. And that's not even the truly weird stuff.
Even if Ruff's writing isn't great here, the story is somehow very believable. That's quite a feat for a story that truly jumps the shark. He somehow manages to keep the bizarro alternate reality in the realm of our reality. It may make you question whether what you’re doing is good or evil. And if it's the latter that a group of secret ops may very well be sneaking around the corner with plastic pistols. Or that there may be eyes watching you, right now. And that's a very unsettling feeling.
Ruff may be a more gifted writer or story teller than the actual prose of this book may let on. And even the book itself may be more than it seems. Because on the surface it seems like just a thriller. A very good thriller. But a thriller none the less. And its twist guarantee one read and one read only. Although, not every book we read needs to be reread a thousand times. So maybe it's for the best that Ruff hits hard and fast, leaves us feeling uncomfortable and suspicious, then walks away at just the right moment.
Bad Monkeys is a great read, even if it's just once. Even if you read it just once, it’ll stick with you forever making you look over your shoulder. Check what you're doing. And most of all, behave.
Baltimore; or the Steadfast Tin Soldier and the Vampire
by Christopher Golden and Mike Mignola
Review by Scott, Asst. Head of the YA Dept.
4/5
An illustrated novel in the tradition of gothic novels like Frankenstein, Baltimore; or the Steadfast Tin Soldier and the Vampire is an interesting read about the nature of war.
It's also a tedious read. Like the novels it culls its storytelling style from, Baltimore takes its time getting to the blood, guts and action.
Thankfully, most of the time is spent on other weird occurrences, like a lake monster that eats people and a haunted bear that hides out in human skin. And the final battle between the title's Lord Baltimore and the vampires is amazing.All the while, Mike Mignola, who created Hellboy, punctuates the story with stark and chilling black & white drawings.
It all leads to a very haunting final image worthy of some high acclaim. Too bad it takes so much effort to get there.
All in all, the effort is worth it though. Just be prepared to power through.
Barbarian
by Lynn Ewing
Review by Elizabeth S.
5/5
I love that author a lot. I’ve read her other series.
Beating Heart
by A.M. Jenkins
Review by Sarah L.
3/5
This was an O.K. book, but it wasn't much of a horror story. And is kind of weird with the girl being a part of the house and liking the guy that moved in.
Beauty
by Nancy Butcher
Review by Hannah C.
5/5
To a certain extent, I can sympathize with the way Anna, the main character, tries to make herself feel some semblance of love from her mother. I respect her greatly for not letting “beauty” go to her head. This story reminds me a bit of Sleeping Beauty (without the dwarves.)
Because of Winn-Dixie
by Kate DiCamillo
Review by Tia G.
5/5
This book made my emotions change and helped me realize to appreciate what I have more. It is very detailed and based on an animal which I like. I learned a lot from this book and it is by far the best book I have ever read.
Black Tuesday
by Susan Colebank
Review by Megan Z.
5/5
It was a book with a heavy subject, but the author made it funny.
The Book Thief
by Markus Zusak
Review by Erica S.
5/5
I LOVE this book! I honestly think this is one of the best books I have ever read. The main character Liesel lives in Germany during the time of Hitler, and the book is about her growing up on Himmel Street (Heaven Street). The book is narrated by Death, though this is a serious book it has its lighter points. This book could truly change the way you think. It’s amazing and I recommend this for anyone!
Bounce
by Natasha Friend
Review by Rachel L.
3/5
This was a book about a teenage girl's life. Her father is getting married and she doesn't like her new stepmother. It wasn't too interesting. Typical plot. But it was funny.
Bound
by Donna Jo Napoli
Review by Sarah L.
4/5
Some parts were gruesome, but the surprise Cinderella-missing-shoe ending was interesting.
The Boy Detective Fails
by Joe Meno
Review by Scott, Assistant YA Department Head
5/5
The Boy Detective Fails works from a certain level of nostalgia for the Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew mysteries. Readers have to be aware of the infallibility of these characters who can solve any mystery, to understand Joe Meno’s protagonist Billy Argo. But he is dealing with the idea that we can’t stay children forever. Which sounds heavy, as do the other issues dealt with here (suicide, psychiatric drugs, depression), but Meno deals with everything light-heartedly, even if he does often break your heart. There is a silver-lining in this quirky mischief.
The Boy in Striped Pajamas
by John Boyne
Review by Sarah L.
5/5
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is sad and really gives people insight to what happened to Holocaust victims. I especially liked the author's note at the end because it explains the two boys on the opposite side of the fence.
Boy Proof
by Cecil Castelluci
Review by Crystal K.
Five crowns out of five. I could not put the book down. Read it within one day. Had a great plot.
Breathless
by Pam Withers
Review by Shante K.
4/5
I gave a rating of 4 because first off it was just plain good and second I really love the ocean and the sea animals. It is also really good because it isn’t too hard of a book to read because it isn’t too long. You should just read it because it is exciting and also because it is from orca soundings and all their books are really good!
Bud, Not Buddy
by Christopher Paul Curtis
Review by Andrew C.
It has 243 pages. He spends most of the book looking for his dad, because he has been in foster families since his mom died. But read and find out if he finds him.
The Case of the Missing Marquess
by Nancy Springer
Review by Monica M.
5/5
I liked this book very much because it was about a 14 year old girl, Enola Holmes, who doesn’t want to become a lady. Much less to do what it takes to become that. When her brother, Mycroft, tries to send her off to boarding school she out smarts him easily and runs away to the spot which she had planned to go to. She encountered danger and even finds a new friend. If you like mysteries, this book is right for you.
Charmed
by Carrie Mac
Review by Tressidy G.
5/5
I found this book very revealing. It definitely kept me entertained. It did not have the ending I had sought, but I think that’s why I found it so interesting. I recommend older, more mature kids to read this. It makes you wake up and kind of realize that this stuff is true. This book was worth my time and completely caught my eye.
The Chocolate War
by Robert Cormier
Review by Roy D.
4/5
I liked the book and the way it portrayed high school. It would have been a 5 if not for the ending.
The City of Ashes
by Cassandra Clair
Review by Elizabeth S.
5/5
I loved this book. I just want to read the first one. I love her books.
The City of Ember
by Jeanne DuPrau
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
I loved this book! I couldn't stop reading it! I can't wait to read the People of Sparks! It starts out with an interesting mystery and then all the puzzle pieces are put together. It had a great ending that makes you want to go read People of Sparks. It was great!
Review by Sarah L.
5/5
Loved it!! I couldn't find a way to put it down.
Review by Shante K.
5/5
I gave this book a rating of 5 because I really liked how the author make the book seem nothing at all like our world, it was very creative and it is what make the book interesting to me. I also liked how Lina and Doon basically became friends again. I am definitely going to read the next book!
Review by Elizabeth S.
4/5
The City of Ember was a great book, I liked it so much because it was different than any other book I had ever read and it was very interesting. I just really liked the whole plot of the book, and I liked the characters. I will definitely recommend this book to a friend!
The Class Clown
by Johanna Hurwitz
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
It was a good book. It was about a guy who always clowned around and decided to stop. And it had a lot of emotion.
Click Here
by Denise Vega
Review by Elizabeth S.
5/5
I really liked this book. There are many reasons why I liked it. But the number one reason was it was about people my age. I loved this book.
The Clique
by Lisi Harrison
Review by Rebecca W.
5/5
I like the genre of the story and just the way the author writes. I’m glad it’s a series! I also enjoy the author’s style of writing and the way the events unfold.
Confessions of a Teen Sleuth
by Chelsea Cain
Review by Monica M.
5/5
I liked this book because Nancy Drew is back to tell us what really happened, and that we got a lot of wrong information. It retells many of the stories we all love, the right way. As Nancy grows older she finds it very hard to give up solving mysteries. This book lets you solve the last of Nancy’s mysteries with her. This book is perfect for anyone in need of a mystery.
Cross My Heart & Hope to Spy
by Ally Carter
Review by Abigail S.
4/5
I really liked the fact that this book took place in modern times, but still had a lot of action. I also liked how I could relate to the main character. Ally Carter has a good sense of what goes through a teen’s mind & an ability to put it on paper.
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
Even better than the first! Zach's character was very mysterious. You never know what he is up to until the very end. Awesome book!
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
by Mark Haddon
Review by Mohan P.
5/5
I gave this book a 5 rating, because it was funny, scary, and sad. It was funny, because Christopher said, “I cannot tell a joke,” but he told 3 jokes. It was scary because Wellington was murdered and the killer was still at large. It was sad, because his dad said his mom died from a heart attack, but she went away to London because his mom and dad fought a lot.
The Cybil War
by Betsy Byars
Review by Rachel L.
3/5
I thought the book was really funny but a little strange.
Dancing in Red Shoes will Kill You
by Denise Patrick Lewis
Review by Crystal D.
Five crowns out of five. I thought this was an amazing book I read it in almost four hours. And it only took me that long because I had to put it down once or twice to help my parents with something.
Daughters of the Moon #4: The Secret Scroll
by Lynne Ewing
Review by Janessa B.
5/5
This book was filled with fascinating adventure and there are moments when you just want to scream because it was too exciting to handle and then there are moments when you feel like you are going to pull your hair out because you cannot put the book down.
Death and the Arrow
by Chris Priestley
Review by Hunter B.
5/5
Good plot with a nice twist. A good scary feeling, lots of chases, and the setting is in perfect time too. A young boy loses his friend in a brutal murder that’s part of a chain. Now a race against time to find new allies, enemies, and an ending that will blow your mind! With life on the line that will happen... read it and find out.
Don't Get Caught in the Teacher's Lounge
by Todd Strasser
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
It was about these kids who try to break all the rules without getting caught and they get pop from the teacher's lounge and try to sell it. Well…they get caught but they made a few friends along the way so it’s cool.
Double Dutch
by Sharon M. Draper
Review by Justin W.
2/5
Because it was so long and different from the rest of the books that I’ve read. But I liked the teacher.
Eclipse
by Stephenie Meyer
Review by Mina R.
5/5
The book was always interesting, not that everything was exciting. A book that’s always exciting isn’t a good one. There was disappointment, sadness, and some “interesting” occurrences. A definite choice had to be made between which lover to pick, both being worthy. One’s like a drug, she couldn’t live without him, and the other guy would be a comfortable choice.
Eragon
by Christopher Paolini
Review by Tawnymara I.
Eragon was very intriguing. It takes you in and doesn't let you go! The characters are very described and fun. The creativity was stupendous! I highly recommend this to anyone with a sense of adventure! This is definitely 1 out of 10 on my favorite book list!
Escape
by Lynn Ewing
Review by Elizabeth S.
5/5
She is a great author. I love her books.
Extras
by Scott Westerfield
Review by Sam D.
4/5
It was written well, but it was quite a jump from the others. I was actually slightly disappointed in it. It didn’t seem quite as grim as the others.
Extreme Weather
by Christopher Burt
Review by Monica R.
Kind of lame... It had cool pictures but it was so boring! The title and cover were cool.
The Face on The Milk Carton
by Caroline B. Cooney
Review by Shaunna R.
Five out of five crowns. It was really interesting and kept me in tacked. It was very hard to put it down.
Fall of a Kingdom
by Hilari Bell
Review by Samantha W.
5/5
This is a wonderful book. It has a LOT of adventure, and it really gets you involved with the characters. You feel like you are a part of this tremendous battle when you read this book.
The First Part Last
by Angela Johnson
Review by Cammie S.
5 out of 5. I thought that The First Part Last was a wonderful book. It held my attention and I thought it was well written. It tells about how he is struggling to be a father while he is trying to find himself and keep everything together when Nia falls ill. he feels stupid because now he has a baby to take care of and he is only sixteen, and his emotions go up and down- he loves Feather, but he knows he messed up. He is confused and tired, but he knows he has a baby now, and he'll have to step up and be a good father.
Flawless
by Sara Shepard
Review by Megan Z.
5/5
The story had twists and turn until the very end.
Flipped
by Wendelin van Draanen
Review by Elizabeth S.
3/5
I gave this book a rating of 3 out of 5 because it just really wasn’t my kind of book. But the one thing I really liked about this book was the characters. And chapter thirteen, that was my favorite chapter.
Forever in Blue: The Fourth Summer of the Sisterhood
by Ann Brashares
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
The ending was kind of sad because they lost the Traveling Pants but it was a really good book. They realized the Pants were bringing them apart instead of together. It was great!
Freewill
by Chris Lynch
Review by Allison V.
1 out of 5. I disliked it because it was extremely hard to comprehend. It might have been alright if it hadn't messed with my mind.
The Friendship Ring: Please, Please, Please
by Rachel Vail
Review by Wendy Z.
5/5
It was interesting to see if the girl would go for her dream and not her mom’s.
Genesis Alpha
by Rune Michaels
Review by Sam D.
4/5
It was a really cool idea. I would’ve given it a 5, but it seemed kind of toned down.
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
It was so cool! I would never have thought you get in such detail with that particular subject of good and evil! It was really good! I loved the storyline and the characters.
Review by Sarah L.
5/5
Awesome!! It brought up some really good questions about good vs. evil. I liked how Josh understands that just because he looked like his brother their minds were completely different and he could choose his own future.
Ghost Hunters and the Incredibly Revolting Ghost!
by Cornelia Funke
Review by Monica M.
5/5
I liked this book because it was a humorous mystery about a young boy Tom, who is terrified to go into his apartment’s cellar, because he thinks it’s haunted. So he teams up with his grandmother’s friend Hetty, and they get the ASG also know as Hugo, but they run into a bigger problem. This is a really great book!
Ghost Hunters and the Gruesome Invincible Lightning Ghost!
by Cornelia Funke
Review by Monica M.
5/5
I liked this book because it was another great humorous mystery by Cornelia Funke. Tom is at it again, but this time is chasing down a gruesome invincible lighting ghost (GILIG). Their too close encounter at a beachfront hotel with a GILIG! This ghost is turning guests into ghosts! They use the help of Hugo, as ASG to help defeat the GILIG! Can they do it or will they get turned into ghosts also? This is a great book!
Girl in Pants: Third Summer of the Sisterhood
by Ann Brashares
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
First of all, I love the books about teenage girls' lives' so this book was great for me. The love story was suspenseful. You couldn't wait for the two to get together.
Girls Dinner Club
by Jessie Elliot
Review by Sarah L.
5/5
The book applied to a real teenage girl’s life and was fun to read. It had surprising romances and a great ending.
Glass
by Ellen Hopkins
Review by Megan Z.
5/5
The book was an excellent sequel to a very intense book about a good girl going bad.
Goddess of the Night
by Lynne Ewing
Review by Janessa B.
5/5
I rated this book because of the thrilling magic and mystery. This story is about how four girls must find what they are and what their purpose is. They go to great lengths to get there.
Review by Megan Z.
5/5
I liked that this book was mystical all the way through.
The Golden Compass
by Phillip Pullman
Review by Mersadez T.
4/5
This book is a little confusing at the beginning, but don’t give up it all comes together in Part 3(The Amber Spyglass). This book goes into some very religious ideas, I advise you to remember that it is fantasy.
Got a Problem?
by Francine Pascal
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
This book was about a girl whose stepmother and father barely pay attention to her. So she gets in some trouble, but her best friend helps her out.
Greek Gods
by Adele Richardson
Review by Elizabeth M.
4/5
This was not the kind of book I usually read and I thought I would try it but it was ok, just different.
Hard Cash
by Kate Cann
Review by Mersadez T.
2/5
Simple story. Boy wants. Boy gets. Boy learns.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
by J.K. Rowling
Review by Abigail S.
6/5
OMG! I absolutely loved this book! It is my favorite in the series. I've read it twice and both times I could hardly put it down. Unlike some of the other Harry Potter books, this one has tons of action throughout instead of just at the end. It is sad, however, when you read about all the people who die. But it is still my favorite. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who hasn't read any of the other books though because it doesn't make a lot of sense without reading the others. I give this book two thumbs and two big toes up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
by J.K. Rowling
Review by Andrew C.
4/5
This book is a little different than the movie. In the book the Tri-Wizard Tournament starts with Harry being picked last out of the Goblet of Fire. But it’s O.K. I think it’s better than the first book. In my opinion the books, so far, go in this order (least to best): Sorcerer’s Stone, Goblet of Fire, Chamber of Secrets, Prisoner of Azkaban.
Review by Rachel P.
The fourth Harry Potter book is my favorite out of the five for a number of reasons. It starts out with the Quiddich World Cup; Bulgaria vs. Ireland, with a very surprising ending. When Harry gets to Hogworts, he and his fellow students are informed of a tournament that is happening at the school: The Triwizard Tournament. The three wizard schools in Britain get together and one student from each (age 17 or above) gets to compete. There's only one problem, Harry somehow got entered and now has to compete. So there are two students from Hogwarts. At the end of the third and last challenge, something strange and terrifying happens. This may be the end of the wizardry world, let alone Harry Potter! Not everything is as it seems, especially the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book over and over again and I give it a 4.5 out of 5.
Review by Kaylee D.
5/5
I liked it because it had a lot of magic. It also had a lot of fighting.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
by J.K. Rowling
Review by Abigail S.
5/5
There is a lot of action in this book. It is very sad, but very exciting. It is my favorite Harry Potter book so far (I have read all of them twice.) This book is awesome!!! Two Thumbs Up!
The Haunting
by Lynne Ewing
Review by Elizabeth M.
5/5
In this book the three girls Meri, Sudi, and Dalia live in Washington D.C. They can turn into an animal. Sudi turns into a cobra. Meri turns into a cat. Dalia turns into a crane. They are sisters of Isis. They are trying to stop the evil god Seth.
The Heavenly Village
by Cynthia Rylant
Review by Wendy Z.
5/5
This book was different from other books that I read. It was sad, too.
Hikaru No Go
by Yumi Hotta
Review by Shante K.
2 out of 5. I disliked it because it was a backward's book and it was hard to keep track of the story. Also I didn't know which little box to read first. Besides all of that it was an ok book.
Hoot
by Carl Haasen
Review by Bailey Z.
5/5
It kept me interested the whole time and the characters weren’t afraid to stand up for what they believed in. That is why I really enjoyed this book.
The Host
by Stephenia Meyer
Review by Scott, Asst. Head of the YA Dept.
3/5
The Host should have been called Love and the Bodysnatchers. That's a catchy title that'll grab anyone. Instead it's called The Host. But it's about love and the bodysnatchers. And if that doesn't make you want to read it, you’re dead inside.
It begins with the body of Melanie Stryder being taken over by an alien named Wanderer. What's most interesting about this book is the fact that Melanie doesn't go away. This creates an interesting dynamic we don't usually see in bodysnatcher type stuff. What does happen to the human when their body is taken? Are they still there? If they are still there what are they thinking? And The Host does a fantastic job with those questions. The complexity of the relationship between Wanda and Melanie is one of the most interesting relationships developed in current science fiction.
Author Stephenie Meyer also mixes enough romance, action, SF-stuff to keep readers entertained along the way. That's not to say this book is flawless though.
For one it could have used a paper cutter. Not an editor, so much as someone with one of those big, dangerous looking paper cutters, to chop this thing in half. For everything great about The Host it still felt like a chore to finish it.
Still with relatable characters and an interesting plot, The Host manages to keep the reader reeled in from start to finish.
Review by Shelby M.
5/5
I gave this book a 5 because it was really good! It had a bit of everything; adventure, twists, love, and much, much more. I liked how even at the end everybody had their different opinions about Wanda. I enjoyed this book very much.
How Angel Peterson Got His Name
by Gary Paulsen
Review by Steven C.
5/5
Gary Paulsen makes the funniest jokes about his childhood and all sorts of downright foolish stunts. Whether it’s the tale of Carl beating the speed record on skis or his buddy Harris repeatedly pounding himself while bungee jumping, you’re sure to get a laugh if like extreme sports mishaps.
How They Met and Other Stories
by David Levithan
Review by Scott, Asst. Head of the YA Dept.
3/5
Reading How They Met could often times be frustrating. I want to like David Levithan, he deals with tough issues facing teens that few other authors even attempt to deal with. However, he just isn’t that talented. He’s shallow and annoying more often than insightful. He’s kind of like Nicolas Sparks for edgier teens. Some may need that, but most will turn to someone who is actually willing to delve deeper into his subjects. To be fair, this is a collection of short stories, and short stories about love. And teenagers may not understand love any deeper than Levithan gives them credit for, but he doesn’t give them any credit. Still, there are some great stories in this collection, enough to make up for its massive shortcomings. The title story “How They Met” is a tender, nostalgic retelling of how Levithan’s grandparents met. “The Good Witch” deals fairly well with a guy dealing with an overzealous prom date, equal parts funny and heartbreaking. “The Escalator-A Love Story” is the kind of experimentation and insightfulness that I was expecting from the whole book. Finally, “A Romantic Inclination” nails how teenagers really are when it comes to love, nerdy and awkward, trying to make it all make sense. That story, which he wrote in high school, may be his crowning achievement when it comes to dealing with teenage love. I just wish the other stories had as much depth as those few, because this collection mostly left me wanting more.
How to Be Popular
by Meg Cabot
Review by Monica M.
4/5
This book is about a girl named Stephanie Landry and her rise to popularity. To get her started she found an old book in the attic of her friend Jason’s house. She thinks that with the help from the book she can turn from the laughing stock of the school, to super cool. Steph only wants to be part of the “it” crowd. She soon finds out that it’s easy to become popular, but it’s hard to stay that way. The way that the characters in the books talk to each other is not very kind. The book has romance, dreams, and some very good tips on how to be popular.
I Thought You Were My Best Friend
by Ann Reit
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
I thought it was cool how good the friends were in this book. But it’s about a guy who dates both of them at the same time and I think that’s a little weird.
The Icewind Dale Trilogy
by R.A. Salvatore
Review by Steven C.
5/5
The Icewind Dale Trilogy has all the elements of great fantasy writing. The story follows the adventures of five companions: Wulfgar, Battie-Brie, Bruenor the dwarf, Regis the Halfling, and best of all, Drizzt Do-Vrden. Salvatore’s meticulously described battle scenes are amont the best in fantasy literature. This is his first major work, and it only gets better from here.
I'd Tell You I Love You But Then I'd Have to Kill You
by Ally Carter
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
I loved this book! It is awesome that there is a school for girl spies! There was a surprising romance and great friendships.
Inkheart
by Cornelia Funke
Review by Samantha W.
5/5
I loved this book because it tells the story of the evil Capricorn. It also tells a wonderful story of the bond between a father and daughter on their quest to find the mother to complete the family. It is a must read.
The Invention of Hugo Cabret
by Brian Selznick
Review by Scott, Asst. Head of the YA Dept.
5/5
So Brian Selznick's newest book, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, has had a lot of praise heaped upon it. National Book Award Finalist. Caldecott Medal Winner. It's been called "groundbreaking." And there are rumors Martin Scorsese may direct the movie adaptation (he isn’t).
That aside, Selznick's book really is quite an amazing piece of work. Part picture book, part novel, the book tells the story of Hugo Cabret, a boy who's lost his father and his uncle and must fend for himself on the streets of Paris. Well, the train station of Paris at the very least. And while graphic novels have done what this book does for years, there is still a groundbreaking quality.
It could be that the pictures are mostly simple pencil sketches to help move the story along. Or it could be how they are used so cinematically. At times, like a chase scene late in the book, where words couldn't do justice, Selznick lets his images tell the story. And somehow manages to dazzle and amaze the reader by picking the right moments to show. He also keeps readers enthralled with mystery and magic. Not to mention film buffs will enjoy the film references and the integral part movies play to the story.
It may be a children's book. It may not be groundbreaking. It may not be directed by Scorsese (it won’t be). But The Invention of Hugo Cabret plays on our imaginations like only a true masterpiece can.
Isabel
by Carolyn Meyer
Review by Nicole F.
4/5
I like this book because I thought it was very interesting. It was a little weird that she was expected to be married at 15 but I guess that was the custom back then. It was good and I liked it a lot.
Islander
by Cynthia Rylant
Review by Wendy Z.
5/5
It was sad, in this book, when Daniel didn’t have any family and he had to live on an island with his friends.
The It Girl
by Cecily von Ziegesar
Review by Allison V.
5/5
I fell in love with this book mostly because this life is so surreal. The book draws you in and you become interested immediately.
Jumping the Scratch
by Sarah Weeks
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
It was a really good book with a great mystery! At first it was confusing which makes you want to keep reading to find out what the characters are talking about, which I love! The book was really good!
Review by Sarah L.
5/5
Jamie’s life was sad and turned out to become satisfying. He got everything that he thought he would never be able to get back. (ie: A family) He turns out with his understanding aunt back and great friend. There is also a small mystery tied into the book.
Just in Case
by Meg Rosoff
Review by Sarah L.
4/5
This book has a very interesting view on fate. I liked how Justin found out that by trying to be someone he wasn't he was hurting everyone around him (especially his little brother Charlie).
The Kid
by R.M. Gomez
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
I liked it because at first the guy was a jerk, and then his younger self comes and tells him that he shouldn’t grow up to be a jerk. So the main character present self (Russ) turns his life around, and gets a dog!
Kingdom Keepers
by Ridley Pearson
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
It was awesome! I loved the mystery! Totally surprising! Great book!
The Last Days
by Scott Westerfield
Review by Sam D.
4/5
A good book, especially if you like bands and vampires. There’s good wholesome infected people. For if you like that sort of thing.
The Looking Glass Wars
by Frank Beddor
Review by Mersadez T.
5/5
This is a very interesting take on Alice in Wonderland. It’s supposed to be the “true story” behind Lewis Carroll’s classic and it blended his real life with aspects of the original text. The author pulls everything together very well. It used very simple words to create a twisted version of Alice in Wonderland.
M is for Magic
by Neil Gaiman
Review by Jessica P.
5/5
This book was a fantastic read. Stories ranged from a modern fairytale to a boy being raised by dead people. Gaiman’s writing is beautiful and he has great depth. Some stories made me cry, while others made me LOL. A great collection of stories.
Mansfield Park
by Jane Austen
Review by Anne B.
3.5/5
The first half of this book was boring because Fanny is so passive. It got really interesting towards the end. After reading Mansfield Park I’ve decided I’d much rather watch a Jane Austen movie than read the book.
A Masterpiece for Beth
by Lara Bergen
Review by Tyra G.
5/5
The reason I picked this rating is I love fairies. I love the description of fairies.
The Mediator: Shadowland
by Meg Cabot
Review by Amy J.
4/5
Though the plot is highly clichéd (girl sees ghost, girl falls in love with ghost...), it becomes fresh in the perspective of young Susannah Simon. Her casual way of speaking makes the reader feel at home, almost as if they are not reading, but they are with her. The voice of Susannah seems easily spoken, but is never sloppy, staying clean with fresh dialogue.
There are times when the events seem to become a bit unbelievable. Fighting ghosts within your first week of school? Falling in love with someone before you know their last name?
The characters are fun and keep the plot moving, even when it seems to be moving at a velocity of melting ice cream. Not only are they fun, but they are also quite pivotal, not becoming a simple rock on the patch. They also provide humor galore. For those who enjoy laughing, I recommend this one.
But the one thing that makes the positives seems so minor is the fact that the idea is over-done. Had someone not recommended this to me, I would not have read it. Why read a book when you can see practically the same thing in a movie or TV show? If you are one who reads for originality in a book but enjoys the casual style of Meg Cabot, try some of her other books like Jinx, or Kiss Me Kill Me by Lauren Henderson.
Megatokyo Vol. 1
by Fred Gallagher / Rodney Caston
Review by Sam D.
6/5
It was awesome, a definite must-read for everyone. I personally command you to read it.
Megatokyo Vol. 5
by Fred Gallagher
Review by Sam D.
7/5
I liked it so much because it’s Megatokyo, which is awesome. It also has awesome art, but don’t read it if you haven’t read any of the previous ones.
Midnighters #1
by Scott Westerfield
Review by Sam D.
5/5
Time stopping; dark, blood-thirsty beats hunting people down, and a whole lot of 13 letter words. What’s not to like?
Midnighters #2
by Scott Westerfield
Review by Sam D.
6/5
This book was AWESOME! Same darkling things and 13 letter words, but now there are half-humans, halk-darklings, which was awesome.
Minute Men
based on the Disney Channel original movie
Review by Monica M.
5/5
I liked this book because it was about two guys entering high school, Virgil Fox and Derek Bogart, where total opposites but they want to become popular. On the first day of their Freshman year, Virgil goes out of his way to save an over achiever named Charlie, and his social standing drops big time. Flash forward three years and Derek is captain of the football team while Virgil is captain of the dorks. But when Charlie creates a time machine they team up with Zake, a rebellious loner, the three become the time-jumping minute men. Will all of the changing of the past put the future of the world in danger? This is one awesome book!
Moon Demand (Daughters of the Moon #7)
by Lynne Ewing
Review by Elizabeth M.
5/5
It’s exciting. It always has you at the edge of your seat. I could only put it down 3 times. It’s very hard to skip pages.
The Naked Mole-Rat Letters
by Mary Amato
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
It was cool how the characters that start out hating each other end up almost best friends. The lesson that is learned is about not lying and just being open.
Review by Sarah L.
3/5
This book wasn't very original. It got boring with the Rat Lady always going on about naked mole-rats to solve life problems.
Nancy Drew
by Stephen Petrucha
Review by Elizabeth M.
5/5
I really like mysteries and they are full of excitement and I liked it when the case is solved.
Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys
by Carolyn Keene
Review by Cynthia R.
Five out of five crowns because I love mysteries and I like how she is skilled at being a sleuth.
New Moon
by Stephenie Meyer
Review by Sam D.
5/5
It was great, but the middle was annoying. Jacob is really cool. But Bella is annoying when she goes emo.
Review by Anne B.
4/5
The Twilight series is good, but there are certain flaws. My biggest fault with them is all the ridiculous fan girls who are absolutely in love with Edward. They want to be Bella, have Edward as a boyfriend, and have Alice and Jacob Black as their best friends. Then they go and compare it to Harry Potter? For the record, Harry Potter will always be better! I do like Twilight though, they’re good books.
Review by Shante K.
4/5
I gave a rating of 4 because the first book Twilight, I thought was better and more intense but I still liked New Moon. I liked how Jacob came into the book more than in Twilight. Even though a lot of people say that New Moon is not as good, it is still good mostly because Jacob and because it give you drama and romance in it. It is amazing. You should read it.
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist
by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan
Review by Scott, Asst. Head of the YA Dept.
4/5
Older readers, especially those who like a little romance with their punk rock, will really dig this book. Set in the punk scene of New York City and switching perspectives between clean-cut, punk bassist Nick (written by David Levithan) and smart, straight-edge Norah (written by Rachel Cohn), Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist gives readers both sides of the stories. Both writers are funny and develop their characters that are heartbroken and vulnerable. Cohn’s sections often deliver more insight and wit than Levithan’s, who seems obsessed with being clever. Thankfully, as the book progresses the characters become fuller, both writers seem to become more comfortable and let their characters speak for themselves. The story of Nick & Norah’s night, however, is a compelling one, rife with toughness and romanticism. And Cohn’s final few sentences are fabulously open-ended and magical.
Nicki
by Ann Howard Creel
Review by Monica M.
5/5
I really liked this book because it was about a girl Nicki, who had trouble saying no, which eventually got her into training a service puppy named “Sprocket”. When Sprocket gets to be quite a handful, it takes all Nicki’s compassion to finish his training. She runs into a couple problems, but is able to handle them responsibly. This is an extraordinary book, and you should definitely read it if you love animals.
animals.No More Dead Dogs
by Gordon Korman
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
I liked the friendship he had with his new group of friends. I loved the ending after everyone has become friends, and I also loved the suspense!
Review by Sarah L.
4/5
Very funny. The book gave a new meaning to all the books that end up killing a dog in the end. Author also made the reader feel like they went to the same high school with the colorful characters.
Review by Wendy Z.
5/5
It was funny! I wanted to read more to find what the mystery was.
Review by Elizabeth S.
2/5
It was a little hard for me to comprehend. I probably wouldn’t read it again. But it wasn’t the worst book I ever read.
Nobody Does it Better
by Cecily von Ziegesar
Review by Mersadez T.
3/5
Same drama … different people.
The Old Willis Place
by Mary Downing Hahn
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
This book was the best ghost story I have ever read! The suspense was gratifying. I loved the characters and the setting! It was one of the best books I have ever read!
On My Honor
by Marion Dane Bauer
Review by Wendy Z.
5/5
This book was very sad and very scary at some points. I would never want to be in that situation.
One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies
by Sonya Sones
Review by Bailey Z.
5/5
It was very sad. It made me feel bad for the girl because she had never seen her dad; and my dad and I are very close.
The Opposite of Invincible
by Liz Gallagher
Review by Sarah L.
4/5
A really good friend-love story. The only thing wrong with it is the ending.
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
I loved the romance in this book. I thought it was cool how the popular people seemed different to the unpopular people, but really they kind of became friends because they did have a lot in common.
The Outsiders
by S.E. Hinton
Review by Roy D.
5/5
I gave this a rating of 5 because I like stories with two different groups of people fighting. I also like learning why they are fighting.
Pants on Fire
by Meg Cabot
Review by Megan Z.
5/5
This was an awesome book by an awesome writer.
Pass it On
by J. Minter
Review by Cammie S.
6 out of 5. I thought that the book Pass it On was very funny, and it shows how being in love can catch up to you. I've read another Insider's book, and they have certainly carried on to this book what they did in the last. Patch is still always missing, Micky and Phillipa broke up 3 up like 3 times, David and Amanda broke up too, and Amo never really settles down enough to get a girlfriend, anyway. Jonathan finally gets a girlfriend, but she breaks up with him because of his dad. Patch hears that they've broken up, and tells his sister, Flan, that it's ok to date Jonathan, because they like each other, they just don't know it yet. I really can't wait to see what's in the next book, they've got me hooked!
Peaches
by Jodi Lynn Anderson
Review by Megan Z.
5/5
It was a nice book that my friends would love.
Peeps
by Scott Westerfeld
Review by Sam D.
5/5
I gave the rating because vampires are awesome. I mean they are fast, strong, and rip out peoples’ throats. How much better can you get? Also learning about parasites was interesting.
The Penderwicks on Gardam Street
by Jeanne Birdsall
Review by Nicole F.
5/5
Jeanne Birdsall has done it again! This is the sequel to The Penderwicks which I also LOVE. Both books are hilarious! In this book, Rosalind is having boy problems with Tommy Geiger and their aunt decides it is time for Mr. Penderwick to start dating. None of the other family members are too excited about it though and the sisters come up with a hilarious plan to save their dad from dating. I would highly recommend this book to my friends!
Penny from Heaven
by Jennifer Holm
Review by Brandon H.
4/5
Penny from Heaven is written very well and there are many funny scenes in the story. I fell in love with Penny's diverse family and sympathize with her when she deals with family issues. While it is a good story, there isn't a lot of excitement in the story. Still, it's worth your time to read.
Perfect
by Sara Shepard
Review Megan Z.
5/5
I gave this book a 5, because it was thrilling to the end.
The People of Sparks
by Jeanne DuPrau
Review Rachel L.
5/5
I loved The People of Sparks! It is the sequel to the City of Ember(also a fabulous book!) and it brings two totally different worlds together. The People of Ember and The People of Sparks. The People from Ember realize they were living underground and come above ground where they find the City of Sparks. They have arguments and the beginning of a war but end up all being The People of Sparks.
Perfect Princess
by Meg Cabot
Review by Monica M.
4/5
I liked this book because it has real information on many princesses (some real, fictional, and pretend). This book gives you ideas on how to model yourself after some princesses, learn about what they’ve done, and how they affected others. This book is perfect for anyone that likes history and princesses.
Poison Study
by Maria Snyder
Reviewer Anonymous
Five stars! Poison Study is exciting, full unexpected turns. You can't put it down! Yelena finds herself in blood-chilling situations. Love somehow worms its way into Yelena's life, while Brazil is hot on her trail. Mixed with Ixia's most important people, Yelena finds herself in deep trouble when a Sitian sorceress starts foiling around. For Yelena it's a life or death situation.
The Pretty Committee Strikes Back
by Lisi Harrison
Review by Nicole F.
1/5
I did not like this book very much. There was a lot of kissing and a lot of boy talk. It was weird! They’re in 7th grade!
Pretty Little Liars
by Sara Shepard
Review by Megan Z.
5/5
It is a great book with serious mystery. There was backstabbing, lying, and tears along the way.
The Primrose Way
by Jackie French Koller
Review by Naomi K.
5/5
This book took place during the time when the first colonists were settling the New World. In this story the main characters were puritans who regarded the American Indians as savages and heathens who needed to be guided to the light and shown the Christian path. The main character, Rebekah, becomes friends with an Indian girl, Quenequawese, and begins to understand their way of life and the Indian god, Kiehtan, could be the same as her own; 1 god, 2 names. Eventually, Rebekah even falls in love with the Indian tribe Powwow, Mishanods, though her friends and family cannot and will not try to understand. This is an excellent book which opens eyes to different ways of thinking, and keeps you guessing about the outcome up to the last 2 pages.
Prince Caspian
by C.S. Lewis
Review by Nick O.
5/5
I really liked this book. I hope to read more of the series.
Princess Lessons
by Meg Cabot
Review by Monica M.
5/5
I liked this book because it can give tips and pointers on how to look, act, dress, socialize, learn, and experience the everyday life of princess. Princess Mia takes you through the basics of a princess life, beauty, etiquette, fashion, character, education, and even the mysterious world of guys.
The Princess Present
by Meg Cabot
Review by Monica M.
4/5
This book about Princess Mia’s first Christmas in Genevia with Grandmere! But, the greatest part of Mia’s Christmas is getting to spend it with her boyfriend Michael and her best friend Lilly. Mia has a lot on her hands, now that she has to keep Lilly out of trouble. Much less make everything perfect for Michael. This is a great book about real love and romance (not to mention quite funny).
Project Mulberry
by Linda Sue Park
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
It’s about a girl who is Korean and lives in America. Her best friend (Patrick) and her are doing a project about silkworms. She doesn't want to do it because she thinks it is too Korean, and she wants to do something really American. But in the end she uses the silk to do something American. It was a great book about friends too!
The Princess Diaries
by Meg Cabot
Review by Rebecca W.
This is a great book! It was really fun to read. It's funny because it's about this overly dramatic freshman, Mia, who goes through a lot of changes; including when she finds out she's heir to the thrown of Genovia! Everyone should read it!
Review by Rebecca W.
5/5
I loved this book! I enjoyed the style and the way the author writes. I really enjoy the whole series!
The Prophecy (Daughters of the Moon #11)
by Lynne Ewing
Review by Elizabeth M.
5/5
This book was very cool. It was more than I expected. There are lots of choices to shoes from, but this is my favorite series.
Ranger's Apprentice: The Ruins of Gorlan
by John Flannagan
Review by Steven C.
5/5
The book has the makings of an instant classic. The adventures of young Will, an orphaned ward of Castle Redmont, and Halt, his grizzled, old ranger teacher, are immensely satisfying. I kept on coming back for hours until the book was done. I would highly recommend this book for any fan of fantasy.
Recast 1
by Sueng-Hai Kye
Review by Hannah C.
5/5
If you like manga you will like this! Things start off a little bit slow but then they speed up and don’t slow down. The main character JD is pretty silly and for a long time doesn’t realize the seriousness of what is happening around him. Then he realizes what he has to do and sets out on a crazy trip!
Rise of a Kingdom
by Hilari Bell
Review by Samantha W.
5/5
I thought it was a really good book. It had betrayal and everything else you want in a book.
Rules
by Cynthia Lord
Review by Elizabeth S.
3/5
I gave this book a three because it wasnt the best book I read. I think its because I usually look for something about the character to make it a good book and I didnt have any connection with the characters in any way.
Sabrina the Teenage Witch: Lotsa Luck
by Diana G Gallagher
Review by Allison V.
5 out of 5. I liked it for one because I like most books that deal with magical things. I also liked it because it teaches you that you can't take good luck for granted. I really enjoyed reading it!
The Second Summer of the Sisterhood
by Ann Brashares
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
I like these books because they're basically about teenage girls' lives. They have surprising drama and are very satisfying at the end.
Shape Shifters
by Tony Hillerman
Review by Andrew C.
5/5
I gave that rating ‘cause if you like Indian folk stories you would really like this. It has 286 pages and it’s about a Detective Leaphorn looking for a cursed rug by the Skin Walkers (Shape Shifters).
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
by Ann Brashares
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
I loved this book! I seriously could not put it down! So it’s about these four girls (best friends) and they find the magical pants and they share them. During the summer a lot of stuff happens to all of them. Example, Tibby's friend dies of leukemia. But they all mature from what happens to them.
SLAM
by Nick Hornby
Review by Sarah L.
4/5
Did a really good job of showing what life is like when you are a teenage parent. It was kind of boring from time to time.
Sloppy Firsts
by Megan McCafferty
Review by Shante K.
4/5
I gave it a 4 because it was a really good book by having plenty of drama and exciting cat fights. It’s the perfect book for high-schoolers and drama lovers. Basically anyone who reads would enjoy Megan McCafferty’s books!
So B. It
by Sarah Weeks
Review by Tyra G.
5/5
It is an awesome book. It had all the great description of the title book.
So Long and Thanks for all the Fish
by Douglas Adams
Review by Anne B.
5/5
Brilliant book like all Douglas Adams. Random and intriguing all the way through. I advise anyone who has never picked up a Hitchhiker’s Guide book to do so.
Someone Like You
by Sarah Dessen
Review by Madeline K.
4/5
I thought the book was really good. It had a great message and shows true friends.
Specials
by Scott Westerfield
Review by Sam D.
5/5
I gave it this rating because it was an interesting dystopian society. Also the characters were well developed, and the descriptions were frickin’ awesome.
Stargirl
by Jerry Spinneli
Review by Elizabeth S.
5/5
I loved this book because the main character Stargirl (Susan) is so different and nice. I would love to have someone in my class like her. I loved this book.
Stolen Innocence
by Ellisa Wells
Review by Mersadez T.
4/5
This book was shocking. The modern way of life in America is SO different from what this girl went through. Her marriage, which is commonly a dream day for Americans, was the worst day of this girl’s life. She was married before her 15th birthday.
The Story of Jesus
by Heather Amery
Review by Tyra G.
5/5
I loved this book. I thought it talked strongly about Jesus and him dying on the cross and how he returned.
The Sub
by P.J. Peterson
Review by Wendy Z.
5/5
I gave it this rating because it was very interesting to see when they were going to tell the sub what they did. This book made me want to read more!
The Subtle Knife
by Phillip Pullman
Review by Samantha W.
5/5
I thought it was a wonderful book because it had a lot of adventure. It gives great detail of the characters, so, you really get to know them. You have to read the first book though, or it won’t make any sense at all.
Sunset
by Erin Hunter
Review by Ashley M.
5/5
I love Erin’s books. They are so easy to read. You never want to stop reading them. I would recommend them to anyone. It also surprises you, who dies in the end.
Surviving Antarctica Reality TV 2083
by Andrea White
Review by Michael R.
Five out of five crowns. I liked this book because it was exciting and five teenagers had to learn to work together to make it to Antarctica.
Swim To Me
by Betsey Carter
Review by Breanne K.
4/5
This book is a good book. It tells you of a girl whose family is broken apart. They live in a dungy apartment and she is always alone. The only person who cares about her is her little brother. She has a dream to become a mermaid at a small theatre. She moves away and fulfills her dream. Even though she was born into a bad life she turned it around.
They Cage the Animals at Night
by Jennings Michael Burch
Review by Shante K.
5/5
I gave it a 5 because it was a really good book that shows people they should be happy with what they have. It really is inspiring because it shows that you just have to deal with things and make the best of them.
Thirteen Reasons Why
by Jay Asher
Review by Megan B.
5/5
This book was probably one of the best books that I've ever read. It was about this girl named Hannah who committed suicide. She sent out tapes to certain people, who were each part of the reason that she killed herself. If you received the tapes you had to listen to all of them and then pass it on to the person whose story is after yours on the tapes. The tapes eventually get to a boy named Clay, who was secretly in love with Hannah. He had no idea why he was on the tapes; he thought he just did well for her.
But, when it got to his story on the tapes he was devastated to find out why he was a part of Hannah's death. The story is told mostly in Clay's point of view, but Hannah also tells her stories that are on the tapes. This book is amazing, and I'd definitely recommend it!
Time Stops for No Mouse
by Michael Hoeye
Review by Samantha W.
5/5
I enjoyed this book because it put human characteristics into animal form. It’s like “Wind in the Willows” with a ton more action.
Too Popular
by Francine Pascal
Review by Rachel L.
4/5
It was about a teenager named Jessica who likes a guy named Damon. But a nerdy guy likes her. He acts like they are boyfriend and girlfriend. So she kind of has a problem.
Trickster's Choice
by Tamora Pierce
Review by Naomi K.
Five out of five crowns. This book has an excellent plot which keeps you on your toes, you never quite know what will happen next. It is a story that you are transported into. It has sorcery, fighting, and trickery. I really enjoyed this book.
Trickster's Queen
by Tamora Pierce
Review by Mina R.
5/5
I like all of Tamora’s books and have read most of her series. This book was the last of the series. The story’s main character had the same personality as me. Trickster’s Queen was very interesting, kept your interest throughout the book. This book shows how a girl this age can control a spy group to put a new queen on the throne. I enjoyed reading Trickster’s Queen.
TTYL
by Lauren Myracle
Review by Abigail S.
2/5
Critics loved it, but this critic didn’t. This book contained too much bad language & talked about too many inappropriate things.
Tuck Everlasting
by Natalie Babbit
Review by Rachel L.
5/5
Because the book rocked! Plus sad books always get me. It’s cool how a family she just met treated her like a sister or daughter in the mother’s case.
Twelve
by Lauren Myracle
Review by Wendy Z.
5/5
The character in the story has many of the same characteristics as I do. It seems like our lives are the same. I highly recommend this book for any twelve year old girl.
Twilight
by Stephanie Meyer
Review by Sam D.
5/5
It was interesting mainly because there were vampires. I mean sure it was a love story, but it had vampires. C’mon it has to be pretty cool.
Review by Margaret M.
5/5
This is a great book filled with adventure and romance. I feel that Twilight is written so magically that you can sink in to the world of Bella Swan and Edward Cullen. This has become one of my favorite books of all times.
Review by Rebecca W.
5/5
I thought it was a great story! It had a gripping plot and characters you can almost feel like you know. As you get further in, it is so good that you can hardly put it down. I would recommend this book to anyone, especially those who love drama, mystery, and even romance.
Valentine Princess
by Meg Cabot
Review by Monica M.
5/5
I liked this book because it is about Princess Mia’s first Valentine’s Day with Michael(her boyfriend), and when she discovers that Michael doesn’t believe in Valentine’s Day, she gets worried about what to do for Valentine’s Day with Michael. This ends up just where Mia has wanted it to be. This book is filled with romance and it is also a very quick read.
Vampire Academy
by Richelle Mead
Review by Julie B.
It had mystery, trying to figure out who was mentally torturing her. It also had romance. Rose and Lissa were dying to tell the guys they love them. There was action, with Rose kicking butt. And clearly there are vampires. But Lissa’s mood throughout the whole book was depression. Sometimes she was happy, but mostly depressed. That kinda made me feel sad as I was reading it.
War of the Worlds
by H.G. Wells
Review by BJ G.
Four out of Five crowns because it is my kind of book action some adventure. It is really exciting a lot better than the movie. It is one of my favorites. I like it a lot. When you read it, you feel like that is happening in the world today.
Warriors: Firestar's Quest
by Erin Hunter
Review by Alysia A.
5/5
It was adventurous. I could not put it down! Erin Hunter writes great books.
Warriors Field Guide: Secrets of the Clans
by Erin Hunter
Review by Breanne K.
4/5
This book is filled with stories, charts, and pictures that explain a variety of wonders relating to the Warriors series. Although it isn’t an ongoing story filled with cool cliffhangers and emotions like most books, it is very informative and helped me understand and enjoy the Warriors books more.
Warriors Power of Three: Outcast
by Erin Hunter
Review by Breanne K.
5/5
Outcast is the 15th book I’ve read in the Warriors series. I love them all. They are full of action and Erin Hunter puts cliff hangers in all the time. It adds an unbearable suspension that just makes you have to move on. I just can’t put any Warriors book down until the story is over.
The Wedding Planner's Daughter
by Coleen Murtagh Paratore
Reviewer Anonymous
Awesome, I would tell others. The book had good word choice and had surprise so you had to read to the end to find the surprises out. Nothing was bad! I thought the title/cover was very creative and cute! Also it was impressive.
Review by Samantha W.
4/5
I really liked this book! At some parts I laughed out loud! At other times, I felt sad for Willafred. It was very interesting to read it. I couldn’t put the book down.
Wenny Has Wings
by Janet Lee Carey
Review by Shante' K.
5/5
Because of my brother’s disabilities, I think I would feel the same as Wenny’s family if something happened to him or to any family. Plus it was an awesome book.
What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day
by Pearl Cleage
Review by Sarah M.
4/5
I really enjoyed this book because it was real. I say it was real because it talked about things that happen to everyone. The main character, Ava, has HIV and she goes to live with her sister and try and start over and try and find true love instead of a one night stand.
What My Mother Doesn't Know
by Sonya Sones
Review by Wendy Z.
5/5
I liked how Sophie does many things her mother doesn’t know, and I wanted to read more to see when she would get caught. The main character was very sneaky, just like me.
A Wrinkle in Time
by Madeleine L'Engle
Review by Abigail S.
Five crowns! I loved a Wrinkle in Time because it was so exciting. I loved learning about tesseracts. Madeleine L'Engle makes you feel like you're actually in the book with Calvin, Meg, and Charles Wallace. This is truly a good book.
The Year My Sister Got Lucky
by Aimee Friedman
Review by Megan Z.
3/5
The plot line didn’t come in until the very end of the story, and it had a predictable outcome.
The Young Man and the Sea
by Rodman Philbrick
Review by Wendy Z.
5/5
It was dramatic to see the mother die and the dad is depressed but also drunk. Skiff was still able to do things without his dad.
Your Own Sylvia
by Stephanie Hemphill
Review by Mersadez T.
2/5
A book written about Sylvia Plath done all in poems and footnotes. An interesting concept, but not my favorite book. I think people that only like Plath or poetry will enjoy this book.
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