--Keyes
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Book Review: The Mark of Athena
The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan
A continuation of the Heroes of Olympus series, it finally allows all seven heroes of prophecy to meet, and they head for Rome to stop its destruction. Non-stop and action-packed, it's gripping and will keep you on your toes.
--Keyes
--Keyes
Book Review: Death Note, Volume 1
Death Note, Volume 1: by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata
When a high school student named Light Yagami picks up a Shinigami's (a Death god's) Death Note, his whole life changes. Light decides to take out all the world's criminals, starting with his hometown's.
He meets the original owner of the Death Note, Ryuk, and the two become friends. But soon the killings are getting too noticeable and Light gains a reputation that causes the police to come after Light. Including a super-smart detective under the name of L. Can Light become the world's savior, or will he be sentenced to prison?
--Katelyn
He meets the original owner of the Death Note, Ryuk, and the two become friends. But soon the killings are getting too noticeable and Light gains a reputation that causes the police to come after Light. Including a super-smart detective under the name of L. Can Light become the world's savior, or will he be sentenced to prison?
--Katelyn
Book Review: Up Close: Ella Fitzgerald
Up Close: Ella Fitzgerald by Tanya Lee Stone
This book was such a great read! I learned so many things about her personal life! She is such an inspiration in the music world. Also, fun fact: she and Billie Holiday were rivals in the jazz world. Such a wonderful artist.
--Zach
This book was such a great read! I learned so many things about her personal life! She is such an inspiration in the music world. Also, fun fact: she and Billie Holiday were rivals in the jazz world. Such a wonderful artist.
--Zach
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Book Review: The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making
The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente
One to describe--HILARIOUS! Completely wonderful and cheery! Main character is an awesome girl, and the writing style is awesome. Very family friendly! I would recommend for fun, light reading!
--Zach
--Zach
Book Review: The Perks of Being a Wallflower
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
It was such an intriguing story! Definitely not for everyon, nor is it family-friendly. Very relatable main character, but there is some content that is too detailed and there is a lot of substance abuse. Definitely not for anyone younger than 16.
--Zach
--Zach
Monday, January 14, 2013
Book Review: The Hobbit
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
**Warning: Contains Spoilers**
The Hobbit is not only the prequel to The Lord of the Rings trilogy, but also the story of Bilbo Baggins' adventure from his cozy home in the Shire to the Lonely Mountain--former home of Thorin the Dwarf's ancestors.
The story begins in the Shire during what Bilbo Baggins, young hobbit and resident of the Shire, presumed would be an ordinary and peaceful day. He was, however, unaware that Gandalf, a renowned wizard, was planning to recruit Bilbo as a "burglar" and traveling companion to aid thirteen dwarves, who were plotting to travel to the Lonely Mountain; enter the domain of Smaug--a massive, hostile dragon; slay Smaug; and reclaim the mountain as well as its wealth. Upon meeting Gandalf, Bilbo attempted to stop Gandalf from including him in this endeavor because hobbits are very rarely adventurous. The next day, however, by increasing numbers, dwarves began arriving at Bilbo's home until there were thirteen dwaves in his home. They were all drinking and eating everything in Bilbo's pantry while Bilbo struggled to serve the dwarves, while simultaneously endeavoring to stop the dwarves before they ate every last crumb and drank every last beverage. The dwarves, as well as Gandalf who had also appeared with them, went on to tell Bilbo of the adventure they planned to begin. Bilbo, after the dwarves had finished eating, then went to sleep and found that the dwarves were gone upon awakening.
Bilbo believed that the dwarves had accepted his decision to remain in the Shire. However, Gandalf soon appeared and told Bilbo that he had a mere ten minutes to find the dwarves before they set out on their journey. Bilbo, who forgot many things, such as his hat, money, handkerchief, and other things, ran as fast as he could until he reached the dwarves at Bywater. Each one loaded up his supplies, mounted his pony, and set off for the Lonely Mountain. That night, after much traveling, they eventually found a place to sleep. They later noticed a light in the distance, and sent Bilbo to discover what it was. The light was a fire built by three trolls named Bert, Tom, and William. The trolls captured Bilbo and the dwarves and they had decided to eat them, but Gandalf appeared and turned them to stone. He did this by shining light at them, for trolls must be underground when bright light is around or they shall become statues. They eventually made it to the Misty Mountains and took residence in a cave at night. However, a pack of goblins found them and successfully kidnapped them. Although the dwarves did not give the goblins much trouble, Gandalf attacked and killed many of them. Bilbo and the dwarves were brought before the Goblin King, but Gandalf appeared, slayed the Goblin King, and led the dwarves out of the area. Dori was tasked with carrying Bilbo on his back, but Bilbo fell off and became unconscious.
Upon awakening, Bilbo realized that he was alone in a long tunnel. After a long walk, he discovered the Ring of Power, which appeared to be simply an ordinary ring to Bilbo. Later, he found the miserable, wicked Gollum. Gollum, who planned to use the Ring of Power to become invisible and kill a therefore unaware Bilbo, suddenly darted off upon realizing that he had lost the ring. Bilbo managed to escape and later he managed to find the dwarves. Later, as they prepared for yet another day of travel, Gandalf warned the dwarves that the path before them must not be abandoned. After much tiresome travel along that path, the famished dwarves learned that there was a feast nearby that was not along the path by which Gandalf had instructed them to remain. They eventually arrived and learned that it was the Wood Elves having a feast. The dwarves, who were desperate for some food, sent Thorin--the leader of the group--to attempt to receive admittance to the feast with the elves. As this transpired the lights instantly were turned off and Bilbo tried to find the other dwarves but he could neither see them nor could he hear them, for they were presently incapable to reply. Bilbo quickly abandoned hopes of finding them and decided to dream of breakfast. Upon waking, he soon realized he was being ensnared by a massive spider's web. He fought the spider with his fists until he remembered his sword. Upon seeing the sword, the spider immediately retreated but Bilbo killed it before falling asleep yet again.
Bilbo later uncovered the area in which the spiders were meeting in order to determine what they would do to the dwarves. After Bilbo quickly learned that the spiders planned to eat the dwarves, he sung a song that infuriated the spiders, caused them to chase Bilbo and left the dwarves unguarded as a result. Bilbo set the dwarves free; however, they now had to evacuate while fighting off a great number of enormous spiders. Fortunately, Bilbo was killing spiders in a blur and checked their every advance. As Bilbo became weary, the spiders retreated and left the dwarves to ponder what had become of Thorin. They later learned that Thorin had become a captive of the Wood Elves as they themselves were captured (except Bilbo, who disappeared before the elves detected him). Bilbo, after studying the security patterns of the Elven King's castle, freed the dwarves while some of the castle residents were occupied with their feast. Bilbo then proceeded to lock the dwarves in barrels, toss them into the water-gate, and jump on a barrel, for he had forgotten to seal himself inside one. They eventually reached Lake Town, where they were treated like royalty. They were fattened up, rested, and given weapons as they promised in due time to leave to slay Smaug and reclaim the Lonely Mountain. They set off for the mountain and arrived without much difficulty; however, they were faced with a previously somewhat overlooked pair of objectives--entering the mountain and killing Smaug. Eventually, Durin's Day came and they used Thorin's key to unlock the entrance to the mountain. Bilbo, being the burglar, was sent to investigate Smaug's domain. He found a sleeping Smaug, who was resting on his incredible pile of treasure. Bilbo stole merely one gold cup, but Smaug became aware of this after awakening. He responded by hunting the dwarves' ponies and eating as many as he could catch. Another day, Bilbo entered the dragon's room only to find that the dragon was merely pretending to be asleep. The dragon could only smell him, because Bilbo had used the Power Ring and Smaug could not see his prey. After some conversation and riddles, Bilbo made the mistake of aggravating Smaug. Bilbo escaped his attack because the dragon was too large to follow Bilbo through the route Bilbo used. Smaug then unleashed his wrath on the Lake Town. He killed many men and destroyed many of the settlements, but Bard, an accomplished archer as well as the grimp captain of archers who stationed themselves amid the burning houses, killed Smaug by shooting him in the heart. The dwarves were unaware that Bard had killed Smaug. Therefore, they were preoccupied with planning to kill Smaug while many men and elves were on their way in order to claim some of the treasure. Before they arrived, an elderly raven warned the dwarves that the elves and men were traveling to the Lonely Mountain. This news prompted the dwarves to brace themselves for battle and make camp near the mountain. Upon arriving, Bard informed Thorin that he had slayed the dragon and his people needed a share of the treasure in order to reconstruct their city. Thorin, who believed that the treasure was meant for no one other than him and his companions, stubbornly refused to share any wealth. Eventually, Bilbo, who wanted nothing more thant to end this endeavor and resign to the Shire, gave Bard the Arkenstone--a large gem worth more than any other treasure in the mountain. Bilbo gave Bard this stone so Bard could negotiate to receive some of the treasure and resolve the conflict. Before a deal was made, Thorin's hundreds of relatives appeared equipped with weapons, armor, and a surplus of food. Suddenly, Gandalf appeared and he warned them all that goblins and wargs were near and were prepared for battle. Upon learning this, the men, elves, and dwarves joined forces to fight them. This battle became known as the "Battle of Five Armies." Shortly after the battle began, the eagles arrived. A goblin threw a stone which accidentally knocked Bilbo unconscious, for he was currently invisible, with a poorly aimed stone. Upon waking, Bilbo learned that the goblins and wargs were defeated and a man who discovered Bilbo carried him to Gandalf. Bilbo also learned that Thorin had reclaimed the mountain and Bard had returned the Arkenstone. In the end, Bilbo received two small chests--one containing silver, the other containing gold. He finally traveled back home to the Shire, where he peacefully lived for many more years.
--Brett E.
**Warning: Contains Spoilers**
The story begins in the Shire during what Bilbo Baggins, young hobbit and resident of the Shire, presumed would be an ordinary and peaceful day. He was, however, unaware that Gandalf, a renowned wizard, was planning to recruit Bilbo as a "burglar" and traveling companion to aid thirteen dwarves, who were plotting to travel to the Lonely Mountain; enter the domain of Smaug--a massive, hostile dragon; slay Smaug; and reclaim the mountain as well as its wealth. Upon meeting Gandalf, Bilbo attempted to stop Gandalf from including him in this endeavor because hobbits are very rarely adventurous. The next day, however, by increasing numbers, dwarves began arriving at Bilbo's home until there were thirteen dwaves in his home. They were all drinking and eating everything in Bilbo's pantry while Bilbo struggled to serve the dwarves, while simultaneously endeavoring to stop the dwarves before they ate every last crumb and drank every last beverage. The dwarves, as well as Gandalf who had also appeared with them, went on to tell Bilbo of the adventure they planned to begin. Bilbo, after the dwarves had finished eating, then went to sleep and found that the dwarves were gone upon awakening.
Bilbo believed that the dwarves had accepted his decision to remain in the Shire. However, Gandalf soon appeared and told Bilbo that he had a mere ten minutes to find the dwarves before they set out on their journey. Bilbo, who forgot many things, such as his hat, money, handkerchief, and other things, ran as fast as he could until he reached the dwarves at Bywater. Each one loaded up his supplies, mounted his pony, and set off for the Lonely Mountain. That night, after much traveling, they eventually found a place to sleep. They later noticed a light in the distance, and sent Bilbo to discover what it was. The light was a fire built by three trolls named Bert, Tom, and William. The trolls captured Bilbo and the dwarves and they had decided to eat them, but Gandalf appeared and turned them to stone. He did this by shining light at them, for trolls must be underground when bright light is around or they shall become statues. They eventually made it to the Misty Mountains and took residence in a cave at night. However, a pack of goblins found them and successfully kidnapped them. Although the dwarves did not give the goblins much trouble, Gandalf attacked and killed many of them. Bilbo and the dwarves were brought before the Goblin King, but Gandalf appeared, slayed the Goblin King, and led the dwarves out of the area. Dori was tasked with carrying Bilbo on his back, but Bilbo fell off and became unconscious.
Upon awakening, Bilbo realized that he was alone in a long tunnel. After a long walk, he discovered the Ring of Power, which appeared to be simply an ordinary ring to Bilbo. Later, he found the miserable, wicked Gollum. Gollum, who planned to use the Ring of Power to become invisible and kill a therefore unaware Bilbo, suddenly darted off upon realizing that he had lost the ring. Bilbo managed to escape and later he managed to find the dwarves. Later, as they prepared for yet another day of travel, Gandalf warned the dwarves that the path before them must not be abandoned. After much tiresome travel along that path, the famished dwarves learned that there was a feast nearby that was not along the path by which Gandalf had instructed them to remain. They eventually arrived and learned that it was the Wood Elves having a feast. The dwarves, who were desperate for some food, sent Thorin--the leader of the group--to attempt to receive admittance to the feast with the elves. As this transpired the lights instantly were turned off and Bilbo tried to find the other dwarves but he could neither see them nor could he hear them, for they were presently incapable to reply. Bilbo quickly abandoned hopes of finding them and decided to dream of breakfast. Upon waking, he soon realized he was being ensnared by a massive spider's web. He fought the spider with his fists until he remembered his sword. Upon seeing the sword, the spider immediately retreated but Bilbo killed it before falling asleep yet again.
Bilbo later uncovered the area in which the spiders were meeting in order to determine what they would do to the dwarves. After Bilbo quickly learned that the spiders planned to eat the dwarves, he sung a song that infuriated the spiders, caused them to chase Bilbo and left the dwarves unguarded as a result. Bilbo set the dwarves free; however, they now had to evacuate while fighting off a great number of enormous spiders. Fortunately, Bilbo was killing spiders in a blur and checked their every advance. As Bilbo became weary, the spiders retreated and left the dwarves to ponder what had become of Thorin. They later learned that Thorin had become a captive of the Wood Elves as they themselves were captured (except Bilbo, who disappeared before the elves detected him). Bilbo, after studying the security patterns of the Elven King's castle, freed the dwarves while some of the castle residents were occupied with their feast. Bilbo then proceeded to lock the dwarves in barrels, toss them into the water-gate, and jump on a barrel, for he had forgotten to seal himself inside one. They eventually reached Lake Town, where they were treated like royalty. They were fattened up, rested, and given weapons as they promised in due time to leave to slay Smaug and reclaim the Lonely Mountain. They set off for the mountain and arrived without much difficulty; however, they were faced with a previously somewhat overlooked pair of objectives--entering the mountain and killing Smaug. Eventually, Durin's Day came and they used Thorin's key to unlock the entrance to the mountain. Bilbo, being the burglar, was sent to investigate Smaug's domain. He found a sleeping Smaug, who was resting on his incredible pile of treasure. Bilbo stole merely one gold cup, but Smaug became aware of this after awakening. He responded by hunting the dwarves' ponies and eating as many as he could catch. Another day, Bilbo entered the dragon's room only to find that the dragon was merely pretending to be asleep. The dragon could only smell him, because Bilbo had used the Power Ring and Smaug could not see his prey. After some conversation and riddles, Bilbo made the mistake of aggravating Smaug. Bilbo escaped his attack because the dragon was too large to follow Bilbo through the route Bilbo used. Smaug then unleashed his wrath on the Lake Town. He killed many men and destroyed many of the settlements, but Bard, an accomplished archer as well as the grimp captain of archers who stationed themselves amid the burning houses, killed Smaug by shooting him in the heart. The dwarves were unaware that Bard had killed Smaug. Therefore, they were preoccupied with planning to kill Smaug while many men and elves were on their way in order to claim some of the treasure. Before they arrived, an elderly raven warned the dwarves that the elves and men were traveling to the Lonely Mountain. This news prompted the dwarves to brace themselves for battle and make camp near the mountain. Upon arriving, Bard informed Thorin that he had slayed the dragon and his people needed a share of the treasure in order to reconstruct their city. Thorin, who believed that the treasure was meant for no one other than him and his companions, stubbornly refused to share any wealth. Eventually, Bilbo, who wanted nothing more thant to end this endeavor and resign to the Shire, gave Bard the Arkenstone--a large gem worth more than any other treasure in the mountain. Bilbo gave Bard this stone so Bard could negotiate to receive some of the treasure and resolve the conflict. Before a deal was made, Thorin's hundreds of relatives appeared equipped with weapons, armor, and a surplus of food. Suddenly, Gandalf appeared and he warned them all that goblins and wargs were near and were prepared for battle. Upon learning this, the men, elves, and dwarves joined forces to fight them. This battle became known as the "Battle of Five Armies." Shortly after the battle began, the eagles arrived. A goblin threw a stone which accidentally knocked Bilbo unconscious, for he was currently invisible, with a poorly aimed stone. Upon waking, Bilbo learned that the goblins and wargs were defeated and a man who discovered Bilbo carried him to Gandalf. Bilbo also learned that Thorin had reclaimed the mountain and Bard had returned the Arkenstone. In the end, Bilbo received two small chests--one containing silver, the other containing gold. He finally traveled back home to the Shire, where he peacefully lived for many more years.
--Brett E.
Book Review: Brain Camp
Brain Camp by Susan Kim, Laurence Klavan, and Faith Erin Hicks
It was fun, but not as good as Friends with Boys! I always love her style of art and writing, but it just wasn't as good as I would have hoped.
--Zach
--Zach
Friday, December 21, 2012
Book Review: A Wrinkle In Time GN
Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle In Time: The Graphic Novel adapted and illustrated by Hope Larson
It was fantastic! The art was beautiful and things were how I pictured them originally! The dialogue was almost verbatim from the book, and that was awesome! Super awesome book!
--Zach
--Zach
Book Review: Chi's Sweet Home
Chi's Sweet Home by Konami Kanata
This is adorable. That really sums it up for the most part. It's about a little kitten who gets separated from its mother and is found by a little boy named Yohei. Chi's Sweet Home is basically just small stories about a curious kitten and its new family. Always will bring a smile to your face. They keep the art style colorful, simple, and cute.
--Martha Rose
--Martha Rose
Book Review: B.Ichi
B.Ichi by Atsushi Ohkubo
In this world most people only use a small percentage of their brain power, but there is a certain group of people called "Dokeshi" who can unleash a higher percentage and the powers that come with it for one given condition. For our comical hero, Shotaro, his condition is that he has to do one good deed a day. He bumps into a girl name Mana, literally...while she's riding a motorcycle. He is fine (for the most part) and the two stick together. It seems like trouble can't help from seeking them down, and the friends are thrown into danger after danger. Shotaro seems to take it in stride, though, but could there be something beyond his smile?
Full of comedy and action, with some touching moments.
Rated Older Teen by Yen Press.
--Martha Rose
Full of comedy and action, with some touching moments.
Rated Older Teen by Yen Press.
--Martha Rose
Book Review: Black Cat
Black Cat by Kentaro Yabuki
Train Heartnet was in a secret organization known as Chronos, working as an assassin. He had become rather infamous and had been deemed "Black Cat" as he would always deliver some bad luck with his ornate black pistol. Though the actual story starts years later. Train is an easy going bounty hunter along with his partner Sven. There is a lot of action packed just into the first volume! The pair of hunters go after a weapon smuggler who is dealing dangerous new technology, and cross paths with an elegant thief who offers to help.
Overall a very good series with action, humor, and scenes that could make you tear up.
Rated Older Teen by Viz Media.
--Martha Rose
Overall a very good series with action, humor, and scenes that could make you tear up.
Rated Older Teen by Viz Media.
--Martha Rose
Book Review: Death Note: Another Note
Death Note: Another Note--The Los Angeles BB Murder Cases by NisiOisiN, original concept by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata
To be able to see a person's life span: do you see this as a blessing or a curse? It might even make someone slip from the thin line between genius and insanity.
A killer is on the loose in L.A. and it has the police baffled. Naomi Misora is an FBI agent presently on leave. One night she receives an email. Not just any email, one from the world's greatest detective, "L" himself. He needs her to be his eyes and ears on the current serial murders, dubbed "The Wara Ningyo Murders" by the public. Odd considering the detective usually goes after much bigger cases, ones where over millions of dollars are at stake. While investigating, many things come to light, with all sorts of twists and turns. A peculiar private investigator, who seems to know more than he lets on. The book has detective and killer dancing around each other like some sort of morbid game. The lengths someone will go to to prove a point, and complicated puzzles make you think. A killing thriller with humor dashed in.
I adore this book and I've read it several times! I'd rate it Older Teen for language, gore, and violence.
--Martha Rose
A killer is on the loose in L.A. and it has the police baffled. Naomi Misora is an FBI agent presently on leave. One night she receives an email. Not just any email, one from the world's greatest detective, "L" himself. He needs her to be his eyes and ears on the current serial murders, dubbed "The Wara Ningyo Murders" by the public. Odd considering the detective usually goes after much bigger cases, ones where over millions of dollars are at stake. While investigating, many things come to light, with all sorts of twists and turns. A peculiar private investigator, who seems to know more than he lets on. The book has detective and killer dancing around each other like some sort of morbid game. The lengths someone will go to to prove a point, and complicated puzzles make you think. A killing thriller with humor dashed in.
I adore this book and I've read it several times! I'd rate it Older Teen for language, gore, and violence.
--Martha Rose
Book Review: Death Note
Death Note
Story by Tsugumi Ohba, Art by Takeshi Obata
Ever wanted to have the power of a god at your fingertips? A god of Death, to be precise. This is just what happens to high school genius Light Yagami. It fell from the sky and into his life--the Death Note. The human whose name is written in this note shall die. This is the catalyst. Light decides it is his duty to cleanse this rotting world of its evil, and become its new god, by killing criminals, the wrong, the unjust. Just like that, dozens of people start to die, all from "mysterious heart attacks." There are approximately 115 rules in the Death Note. Quickly, Light gains a name for himself. Masses of people, deciding all the deaths of criminals are from some higher force, dub him "Kira" (our lord and savior). Ironically enough, it stems from the English word "killer." Not to say the entire series is about Light ruling the world, not if the great detective known as "L" has anything to say about it! Only seen as an old English L and heard through an electronic voice, L is the greatest detective in the world. So, who do you think will win? The world renowned detective or the prodigy with a supernatural notebook?
I love this series! It made me laugh, cry, and hold my breath waiting for more!
Rated Older Teen by Viz Media.
--Martha Rose
Story by Tsugumi Ohba, Art by Takeshi Obata
Ever wanted to have the power of a god at your fingertips? A god of Death, to be precise. This is just what happens to high school genius Light Yagami. It fell from the sky and into his life--the Death Note. The human whose name is written in this note shall die. This is the catalyst. Light decides it is his duty to cleanse this rotting world of its evil, and become its new god, by killing criminals, the wrong, the unjust. Just like that, dozens of people start to die, all from "mysterious heart attacks." There are approximately 115 rules in the Death Note. Quickly, Light gains a name for himself. Masses of people, deciding all the deaths of criminals are from some higher force, dub him "Kira" (our lord and savior). Ironically enough, it stems from the English word "killer." Not to say the entire series is about Light ruling the world, not if the great detective known as "L" has anything to say about it! Only seen as an old English L and heard through an electronic voice, L is the greatest detective in the world. So, who do you think will win? The world renowned detective or the prodigy with a supernatural notebook?
I love this series! It made me laugh, cry, and hold my breath waiting for more!
Rated Older Teen by Viz Media.
--Martha Rose
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Book Review: Dragon Drive
Dragon Drive by Ken-ichi Sakura
Ever wanted your own dragon? Well, as the name suggests, Dragon Drive is just that's about! Reiji Ozora is, to be blunt, kind of a loser. No special talents, and fails just about everything. Then one day his childhood friend, Maiko Yukino, introduces him to a new virtual reality game called Dragon Drive. Each player gets a dragon partner that is geared to their physical abilities, they fight other dragons to gain experience and level up. Reiji's dragon, named "Child," is extremely wimpy and of unknown nature. Reiji at first is disappointed, but after their first battle together, he realizes that there is more than meets the eye about his new little friend.
Rated All Ages by Viz Media.
--Martha Rose
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Book Review: UnWholly
Book Review: A Long, Long Sleep
A Long, Long Sleep by Anna Sheehan
This book was so much more than I asked for in a holiday read. I came to the library asking for it because two people said it was more than worth my time. They were right. This book invoked such emotion in me that I felt everything this girl felt. More than that I related to her, I was her, am her. This book brought every sort of tear to my eye that you can imagine, from shock, happiness, love, hurt, and simply, devastating heartbreak. You will marvel at the excitement of the twists and turns. And grow to love the characters like they are real, because for a time they are. This book will throw you into a world we can't imagine ever seeing but is all the same amazing in its futuristic beauty, filled with things all too human that will never change, some of them good, some bad. I will never forget this book and it will always be one of my favorites.
--Aubrey
--Aubrey
Friday, November 16, 2012
Book Review: Jane Eyre
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Jane Eyre made me tired, not because I didn't like it, but because I stayed up late and got up early to catch up for book club. Jane is a great character. She is extremely upright and is not afraid to hurt herself for the sake of her good morals. The ending is great and it goes just how I wanted it to.
-Zach
-Zach
Book Review: Cardboard
Cardboard by Doug TenNapel
I love Cardboard by Doug TenNapel! Everything he writes is so compelling! He is so interesting because he isn't afraid to write about people who aren't terribly awesome! Everyone should read all of his books.
Hoorah, hoorah!
--Zach
Hoorah, hoorah!
--Zach
Book Review: The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
AWESOME BOOK!!!
I loved it! Full of adventure; if you like adventure, read this book. Katniss Everdeen's sister is drawn during the reaping. Katniss takes her sister's place. She has to prepare and train; she must also figure out how to keep from getting killed.
--Breanna
I loved it! Full of adventure; if you like adventure, read this book. Katniss Everdeen's sister is drawn during the reaping. Katniss takes her sister's place. She has to prepare and train; she must also figure out how to keep from getting killed.
--Breanna
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Book Review: Semper
Semper by Peter Dudley
Dane has spent his life being groomed to take his position as Semper of the post-apocalyptic community of Southshaw when his father retires. Sixteen years old and barely a man, he is pushed into the role by his father’s sudden death, just as he has begun to question the web of superstition that holds his people together. Upon Dane’s initiation as Semper, his treacherous uncle turns his people against him with lies and violence and forces him and his new wife into exile in the wilds outside Southshaw, dooming them to die of radiation poisoning—or so he thought. In fact, his community has hidden and ignored more than he could ever imagine, and it becomes vital for him to unravel the truth so he can save his people and rebuild life in a ravaged world.
When I was first offered this book, I was somewhat skeptical. Self-published books can often be unoriginal, filled with mistakes, and downright boring. Happily, this book is an exception to that trend. Semper is a thought-provoking, nail-biting read. It manages to be fast-paced and include lots of action without neglecting character development. Unlike most YA authors, Dudley is unafraid to challenge his readers with mature concepts of marriage, leadership, and hierarchy without subjecting them to inappropriate or graphic content. I found the tone, setting, and themes of this book were very different from mainstream YA, but it was a difference that I very much enjoyed. This book is appropriate for 12 and over content-wise, but I think that those 14 and older would more fully appreciate it.
--Magdalen
When I was first offered this book, I was somewhat skeptical. Self-published books can often be unoriginal, filled with mistakes, and downright boring. Happily, this book is an exception to that trend. Semper is a thought-provoking, nail-biting read. It manages to be fast-paced and include lots of action without neglecting character development. Unlike most YA authors, Dudley is unafraid to challenge his readers with mature concepts of marriage, leadership, and hierarchy without subjecting them to inappropriate or graphic content. I found the tone, setting, and themes of this book were very different from mainstream YA, but it was a difference that I very much enjoyed. This book is appropriate for 12 and over content-wise, but I think that those 14 and older would more fully appreciate it.
--Magdalen
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