The Boy Who Couldn’t Die

This book is mainly about a boy named Ken. Ken’s best friend is killed in a plane crash. Ken now makes a very huge decision. He decides that he will never die. Ken is the only child of very rich parents. Ken then searches and he finds a woman who can make him invulnerable to pain and death and it works. Ken cannot be burned, shot, or even stabbed. Ken can’t die, but he can kill as long as he is awake he has complete control of his life. Dreams take over him, he can’t stop, he dreams of murdering someone he loves. He can’t stop. –Jenna H.

Tell Me Everything

This book written by Carolyn Coman, is basically all about a twelve-year-old girl named Roz. Roz has a phone relationship with a boy named Nate. Nate is the only piece of her mother she has left. Nate was saved, well technically rescued by Roz’s mother. The mother died trying to rescue Nate. Roz doesn’t know what went on that day, but she will do anything to get Nate to answer her questions. Roz needs to find Nate and find out everything before he disappears like her mother did. –Jenna H.

Talk Talk Talk by T.C. Boyle

A different spin on the concept of identity theft is written about in this story, Talk Talk Talk by T.C. Boyle. One woman, Dara Halter, istrying to live her life as normally as possible, and so far in life she has been successful. She has a wonderful teaching job at a local school. A new, caring boyfriend (Bridger Martin), and she has no debt. Until one day, after being pulled over by the police for running a stop sign, she is arrested for outrageous charges such as bad checks, auto theft, and more. Dana, who had lived a successful life meanwhile with the struggle of being deaf cannot believe that this could be happening to her. Being deaf was a handicap enough but now with an identity thief, how could she possibly continue? So as a result, Dara and her devoted boyfriend Bridger go on a chance to find the thief! This story is a good book to read, if extremely bored. This story is a good and the idea is good, but at times the story drags and becomes dull. If I were to rate this story out of ten, I would give it a seven. –Christine Y.

Skeleton Key by Anthony Horowitz

Skeleton Key, the third Alex Rider adventure by Anthony Horowitz is a great book. It is longer than both the Storm Breaker and Point Blank, but packs more action. Teenage super spy Alex Rider finds himself in several suspenseful situations in locations all over the world. These locations include Wimbledon, England (the place where the Wimbledon Tennis Championship takes place), Murmansk, Russia, and island called Skeleton Key, and more. In this novel, Alex works for the CIA to investigate a man suspected of having a nuclear weapon while the people of MI6 try to clean up a situation Alex got himself into near the beginning of the book. Skeleton Key deserves the five-star rating I gave it, and it remains suspenseful to the last. –Bruce H.

She Died Too Young by Lurlene McDaniel

This is the story of Chelsea James who is in need of a heart transplant and Jillian Longodo who needs a heart and lung transplant. They meet at the hospital and become fast friends. When Chelsea, Katie, and Laceyt decide to meet at Jenny’s house, Jillian comes to. They end up as very good friends. IN the end though one will die. Will it be Chelsea or Jillian? One will die wating for the transplant and one will get it. Either way, it’s a wonderful story. Like a lot of Lurlene McDaniel books. It paints the perfect picture for those who have no medical disease, showing them how wonderful and how great a gift their life truly is. –Melissa L.

Scorpia by Anthony Horowitz

Scorpia is the fifth novel in the superb Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz. Folowing the information given to him by Yassen Gorogovich in his last breaths, Alex Rider goes to Venice ot search for Scorpia. Scorpia, whatever it is, is aid to have information about Lex’s father, John, and his past as a contract killer. Alex, who is a teenage spy for Britain’s M16, ends up getting himself tangled with a world-wide group of criminals. The story is a very suspenseful and fast paced. Anthony Horowitz is a brilliant author and wrote this story very well. The story is fantastic and deserves a five star rating. However, has Alex finally gotten himself into too much trouble? -Bruce H.

Rakkety Tam

Rakkety Tam is abut a squirrel named Rakety Tam Macburl and a cannibal wolverine named Gulo the Savage. While Rakkety Tam searches for Gulo to kill him, he becomes many animals that he befriends, including some from Redwall Abbey. I like how the author tells what is going on in different places at the same time. The climax of the book and one of my favorite parts of the book is when Rakkety Tam and Gulo finally meet. Rakkety Tam is a good book that makes you want to find out what happens next. – Michael K.

Point Blank by Anthony Horowitz

Point Blank by Anthony Horowitz is the sequel to Stormbreaker, and it is a great, suspenseful book. In this story, protagonist Alex Rider is sent to Point Blank under the fake name of Alex Friend to investigate a school for the delinquent children of famous, very rich families. Point Blank has many suspenseful sections where it is very hard to set the book down. Even in the last chapter, Anthony Horowitz found ways to keep the book exciting. It even ends mysteriously. Point Blank is a very well-written, fast-paced novel that deserves five-star rating. –Bruce H

Mugglenet.com’s: What Will Happen in Harry Potter 7

If you like the Harry Potter books and want to know some theories of what will happen in the seventh Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, you should read this book. In this book, the creators of the website Mugglenet.com discuss how they think the seventh book will unfold, who lives and who dies, and how the story will end. The book also discusses some of the characters’ destinies. I thought that the first chapter should be taken out because everything in ti has been confirmed or changed. I thought the ook was good, but some people might become disappointed if the books predictions are not right. –Ronak P.

Missing Persons: The Chocolate Lover by M.E. Rabb

This book is a hilarious mystery of two girls (Sam and Shattenburg) are trying to find and solve a missing persons case about a chocolate loving, elderly woman who had disappeared fifty years before. Sam and Sohpie end up in Venice Indiana after their father dies in order to escape being split up. When they leave Sophie’s name is changed to Fiona in order to throw off investigators. They also find about someone who could be their long time missing relative Leo, that’s when they find out about the missing persons case. This time’s story by M.E. Rabb is a story with plenty of laughter and suspense. I think it was awesome how the story was developed and I just love it in general! Hopefully this sounded interesting and you now want to read it but remember it’s a sequel! Thanks for reading! -Melissa L.

Harvesting the Heart by Jodi Picoult

Jodi Picoult is a fantastic author and in this story, Harvesting the Heart, she does not fail to deliver another fantastic novel with interesting characters and phenomenon plot. This story is about a woman named Paige, who struggles with the fact that her mother left her behind at an early age. Without a mother’s guidance, Paige fell into troubled times as a teen, and had to kill her child through abortion. Now years later, Paige has run away to start a new life with a knight of shining armor Nicholas. Their lives are quickly beginning and soon Paige is pregnant, but the fact is she has never told Nickolas about her first abortion. With nowhere left to go and self- doubt quickly suffocating her, Paige must run away. Paige goes on a journey of discovery and realizations, but will everything still be the same when she returns? This is an excellent story for anybody to read. It offers amazing insight with its creature plot and amazing characters. I would rate it a ten out of ten! - Christine Y.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is the last book in the Harry Potter series, and we finally find out who lives and who dies. Harry is searching for horcruxes, objects that contain a piece of Voldemort’s (the evil wizard) soul. Many problems arise during his search, such as the legend of the Deathly Hallows. I really like the mystery of the book and how the author gradually reveals us the answers to the questions. The book is full of surprises. I think this was my favorite book of the Harry potter series. –Michael K.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

Finally, the long awaited book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, has been published to complete the phenomenon series by J.K.Rowling. This anticipated book has been well worth the wait and contains everything a good book need: action, love, and drama. With the three loved main characters, Harry, Ron, and Hermione, Rowling takes you on a final adventure. This adventure includes many struggles like breaking into a government office(ministry of magic) or stealing from a highly guarded bank (Grinngotis). Along with the trouble comes tragedy as many beloved characters pass away. But even through theses troubles the main concepts of love, friendship, and togetherness, pulls these characters through. All of the questions that arose will finally be answered in this final and exciting book! In my personal opinion, this was the best Harry Potter book out all seven published. J.K.Rowling, the amazing author that she is, pulled together all the key elements with a creature that could shock anyone. I would recommend anybody to read the Harry Potter series, but I would have to warn them that once picked up, it takes a while to put them back down! -Christine Y.

Game Over: How Nintendo Zapped an American Industry, Captured Your Dollars, and Enslaved Your Children

If you like Nintendo games or just want to know how Nintendo became a huge success you should read this book. First, the author had researched the Nintendo Co. Ltd.; then he gave the story of the extraordinary invention the Nintendo Entertainment system. The author also writes about some of the competitors, for example in 1990 the president of Apple was asked, what company he fears the most, he answered, “Nintendo”. The author makes Nintendo products look bad, but I think they were great and still are. Since this book was published in 1993, it does not contain anything about recent products Nintendo released over the past seven years. –Ronak P.

Eldest

Eldest, the second book in the Inheritance Trilogy, is continuing a story about a boy, Eragon, and his dragon Saphira. While I liked the first book in the trilogy better because it had more action, I like this book because it shows Eragon maturing and learning new things. The part of the book that grabbed me the most was the surprise ending of the book. Because of how much this ties back to the first book, I would certainly recommend this book to someone only if they’ve read the first book of the trilogy. –Michael K

Down the Rabbit Hole (An Echo Falls Mystery) by Peter Abrahams

Ingrid Levin-Hill is living an ordinary life in the ordinary town of Echo Falls. Until the day she gets lost walking to her soccer field. That day, she meets one of the town’s eccentrics, cracked-up Katie, and the very next, the town’s local paper blares a headline that changes the rest of her life. Local resident found dead. That resident is cracked-up Katie. Now Ingrid is on a mission to find cracked-up Katie’s murderer. Along with the added stress of soccer, school, and her new starring role as Alice In the Echo Falls production of Alice in Wonderland. However, the more curious her town becomes in the murderer. Who is the new play director, Vincent Dunn? And who was the person deep inside of cracked-up Katie’s seemingly insane exterior? Peter Abrahams has woven a cunning, suspenseful book of intrigue and mystery, allowing the reader to constantly guess ahead and keep one step ahead of Ingrid, constantly fearing for her. –Olivia R.

Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie

Linnet Ridgeway was the perfect reason for murder. She was beautiful, smart, rich, and had just married a handsome young man named Simon Doyle. But their honeymoon is cut short when Linnet is murder. As more murders occur and more evidence is found the plot gets more twisted and it’s up to Hercule Poirot to solve the case. This book is a great mystery. Including a great plot and a wonderful detective. This is an edge of your seat thriller that will have you guessing until the very end. –Natalie M.

Crank by Ellen Hopkins

Kristina Georgia Snow is perfect. Straight A’s, obedient, quiet, never any trouble. But after a trip to visit her troublesome father, Kristina discovers, through a boy, what would change her life forever. The monster, crank. After discovering the monster, Kristina disappears, and Bree takes her place. Bree is fearless, the exact opposite of Kristina. Bree abandons Kristina’s friends, makes new, monster-loving friends, and becomes more reclusive, continuing to hide secrets from her family. Her grades start to slip, and she starts skipping classes. She starts meeting different boys to get more of the monster, and she discovers what it feels like to love and be loved. However, one thing happens that destroys her wild ride. A baby. Now, she must deal with being pregnant, and her addiction to crank. What started as a wild ride for the monster becomes a struggle for her mind, and her life. Ellen Hopkins has written, in prose, a heartbreaking and disturbing story about the effects of drugs and how they can destroy one’s life. –Olivia R.

Circle of Three: In the Dreaming

It is midsummers eve and Kate, Annie, and Copper find themselves dressing up to go to a Midnight Dance in the woods where coven members will be calling upon faerie magick, but each will find surprises waiting for them there. –Stacey B.

Burned by Ellen Hopkins

It all started with a dream. A simple dream about a boy that most teen girls experience. But Pattyn Von Stratten is not like most teen girls. Raised in a strict Mormon family who believes that women are only good for childbirth and for serving their husbands. And the only kind of boy a Mormon girl is allowed to marry, or even date, is a good Mormon boy. Pattyn might, outwardly, have the perfect family and the imperfect life, but her father is an abusive alcoholic who hits her mother, and terrorizes Pattyn nad her seven other sisters. After that one dream, Pattyn changes, and begins to question her religion, how it treats women as servants, and how unfair it seems. She begins to see a non-Mormon boy, and is caught in a situation with her father, who threatens to kill the boy if he ever touches Pattyn again. Pattyn becomes so angry and frustrated, she breaks a girl’s nose, and ends up breaking a window and becoming suspended. Her family decides to send her to an aunt she doesn’t even know, so that she can find “redemption” and “salvation.” However, she finds love she would never have known in her Aunt J, and her true love, Ethan. During those few summer months, she is at her happiest, until a letter from her favorite and closest sister and a phone call from her father brings her crashing down to reality. Now she must go home, away from the happiness and love of rural Nevada back to the cruelty of her home and her father. Ellen Hopkins, the author of Cran, writes another heart breaking and provoking story, in verse, of a girl who has never felt loved or has loved, who finds love an acceptance in the last place she would think to look.
–Olivia R.

Big Mouth and Ugly Girl by Joyce Carol Oates

Two lives unexpectedly collide in this warm and humorous story written by well-known author Joyce Carol Oates. Matt “Big Mouth” Donaghy is a straight A student. Ideal. Funny. A bit too funny. After making a thoughtless comment in his schoool cafeteria, he ends up being taken into custody by the police. Ursula Riggs calls herself “Ugly Girl.” A basketball star, she ends up quitting after a loss that she believes her entire team will hate her for. After hearing of Matt’s “arrest,” she decides to stand up for him, and for what is right. The case might be over, but the problem that arises from it causes both Matt and Ursula to struggle through school and their own lives. Luckily, they have each other to help them through thick and thin. Joyce Carol Oates has written a thought-provoking story about what is right, what is wrong, the matters of the heart, and acceptance.
-Olivia R.

Behind the Curtain (An Echo Falls Mystery) by Peter Abrahams

Ingrid Levin-Hill is back for another chilling mystery. After the events in Down the Rabbit Hole, Ingrid’s life is back to normal, or so she thins. Now, her dad’s job seems to be coming out of hand, while mysterious people keep trying to get her grandfather to sell her farm, no matter how many times he says no. to top it all off, her brother ahs been having mysterious mood swings, he’s not acting like himself, and he’s becoming extremely buff, too buff, and all too fast. That’s just in her family, but outside of her family, she has even more problems. Her soccer coach has been replaced by the very person who might take over her father’s job, and while going to the dreaded Math Fefst competiton she was unwillingly picked for, she is kidnapped, yet no one believes her story. Can Ingrid get out of this mystery without getting into too much trouble? Best selling author Peter Abraham had done it again with this suspenseful sequel to Down the Rabbit Hole. –Olivia R.

Ark Angel by Anthony Horowitz

Ark Angel is the sixth Alex Rider book by Anthony Horowitz, and alike all of its predecessors, it is captivating. Ark Angel is a “space hotel” being assembled by Nikolei Drevin, a billionaire, and hacked by the British government. However, a group called Force Three kidnaps Paul Drevin, Nickolei’s son to demand a ransom. As it turns out, they kidnapped Alex Rider instead. Alex escapes, however. Nikolei decides to take Alex with him to his home for some rest and to have a good time with Paul in return for saving with him to his home for some rest and to have a good time with Paul in return for saving Paul form being kidnapped. However, bad events follow Drevin and things begin to not add up. Is Nikolei innocent, or is he some how involved? Will Alex survive, or has death finally found him? Ark Angel is well-written, very suspenseful, and most definitely thrilling to the end. I give five stars to Anthony Horowitz and his masterpiece, the Alex Rider series. –Bruce H.

Animal Farm by George Orwell

If you enjoy fantasy books where animals talk, this is a book for you. There was a farmer named Jones who mad the animals work a lot. One day the animals become weary of working and rebel. There are tow pigs, Snowball and Napoleon, who decide that they must become the leaders of the farm. They succeed in getting the other animals pay attention for a while, but when the pigs realize how excellent the power is they lose control so read how chaotic animal farm becomes after power controls animals. The story of animal farm is based on the Russian Revolution I thought the book was easy to read and the writing style was simple to comprehend. –Ronak P.

Alex Rider: Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz

The first installment in the acclaimed Alex Rider series by the British author Anthony Horowitz was well-written and captivating. It made me want to continue reading. The book contained many exciting moments, most of which will take the reader by surprise. It all starts when Alex Rider’s uncle and guardian, Ian Rider, mysteriously dies. Alex soon learns that Ian was a spy for the British intelligence agency, MI6. Alex is then sent ot complete his uncle’s mission for investigating Herod Sayle and his powerful computers, the Stormbreakers, many of which will be given to British schools. Is Sayle’s donation too good to be true, or is he just a generous man? Find out when you read Strom breaker, which I feel deserves a five-star rating. As a side note, a Stormbreaker movie was made which, to me, was not as good as the book for several reasons, including the fact hat characters were added that somewhat changed the plot and that some names were changed. –Bruce H.

Camp Fear by Carol Ellis

Eight new camp counselors, all about eighteen or nineteen years old, begin shaping up Camp Silverlake for the children arriving soon. Some of those counselors have been to Camp Silverlake before, years before, when something unspeakable occurred. Now, seven years later, someone is haunting those counselors at Camp Silverlake, turning each individual’s worst fears into reality.

Although this book was a bit predictable at times, overall it was a great, suspenseful, blood-rushing novel. Camp Fear by Carol Ellis will surely thrill any mystery lover! - Timmy W

The Stalker by Carol Ellis

Janna Richards was just one of the dancers in the play Grease, so she was thrilled when she had her own personal fan. But, that quickly changed when the so-called “fan” began stalking her- following her tour route, sending deadly messages, and even watching her through her motel window. After some near-fatal “accidents” occur, Janna calls the police, only to learn they can do almost nothing to help. Now, Janna must take matters into her own hands before the curtain closes on Janna’s life!

The Stalker started off a little shaky, but overall, it is an exciting mystery that I would recommend to mystery lovers everywhere! - Timmy W

Whale Talk by Chris Crutcher

Whale Talk is a sports fiction novel. However, it deals with other topics, such as modern day racism (a few characters in the story are racist), abuse, and how one accident can change someone’s life forever. The story is about The Tao Jones; everyone just calls him T.J. Jones (the J is from Jones). T.J. was adopted when he was very young because his biological mother was a drug addict and left him alone for hours at a time. Throughout his life he has faced racism and is tired of it. T.J. is very athletic, and in a school that values its athletic program, he is also criticized for not trying out for football, basketball, or any other sport. Then, he sees a kid being picked on for wearing his deceased brother’s Cutter High letter jacket. When T.J. is asked to put together a swim team, he decides to fill it with a group of kids who don’t really fit in with the other Cutter kids, including Chris Coughlin, the kid who was wearing his brother’s jacket. The book caught me because of the plot and a few other things. The main plot of the story is about how the swim team progresses throughout the season. Another thing that caught me in
Whale Talk is that it is a roller coaster ride of emotions. In a matter of pages, the story can go from normal to suspense to sad and back to normal, or it can go from normal to suspense to rage to suspense and back to normal. Another catchy thing in the book is the ending. IT is very unexpected and sad. All things considered, it was an okay read. - Bruce H

The Island of Dangerous Dreams by Joan Lowery Nixon

Andrea is forced to spend the summer with her creepy aunt when her parents decide they need some time alone. Then Andrea and her aunt are invited to an island to bid on an amazing art artifact. Everyone knows the object is stolen, but Andrea is the only one who seems to care. Then the artifact is stolen and someone is murdered. No one knows who will be next.

What I liked most about this book was that it wasn’t easy to figure out. Some mysteries I have read had plots that were easy to figure out and mysteries are never as good when you know the ending. In this book, there are many surprises that keep you guessing and wondering until the very end. - Natalie M.

The Window by Carol Ellis

After a sprained ankle keeps Jody from enjoying the slopes for the rest of her ski vacation, she decides to stay in her room in the cabin, without anything to do. A little spying into another cabin wouldn’t hurt. Especially when the cabin belongs to the lovely Leahna Calder, whom boys drool over while girls wish they were even half as pretty as she was.

Too bad someone feels different. Someone wants Leahna dead, but whom? It couldn’t be one of the other six staying at the cabin with Jody, could it? Each one had a motive, but only one’s reason for wanting Leahna dead was strong enough to actually kill.

And while that one person is fighting Leahna, leading to her death, Jody is watching. She sees everything…including the killer staring back at her.

The Window by Carol Ellis is full of suspense and will keep mystery-lovers on their toes all the way till the end! - Timmy W.

Poison by Chris Wooding

This book is about the travels of young Poison who lives in the Black Marshes. The scarecrow takes her baby sister and a changeling is put in place of her. So Poison starts her journey along with Bram to ask the Phaerie Lord for her sister back. She faces many dangers including a witch that eats bones and a giant spider queen. Poison has to find out who she really is and her innocent quest to find her sister has become a life threatening adventure.

This book was great! I couldn’t put it down once I started reading it. The end keeps you wondering about what will happen next in Poison’s life. - Saniya S

Digital Fortress by Dan Brown

Digital Fortress is a Dan Brown masterpiece. It is a mystery/suspense/action novel in which an NSA (National Security Agency) cryptographer (one who studies and deciphers codes) Susan Fletcher and her fiancé David Becker, who works for a university, are caught up in a huge twisting scandal threatening to destroy U.S. intelligence. It is a captivating twist of events, with enough evidence to support that one person is the criminal, then abruptly giving you the evidence to support that the person is innocent and someone else is threatening American intelligence. The story is set in two countries, with two story lines interconnected completely. The part that grabbed me was the suspense, the constantly twisting power struggle, and several occasions in which believing or rejecting theories could have been the difference between life and death. Also, David is constantly dodging bullets, both figuratively and literally. I enjoyed learning about a few types of codes including one used by Julius Caesar. The characters in Digital Fortress were developed at different rates, sometimes giving false hints, forcing the readers to make their own guesses about what a character will do, and then, later, they find out something different, and the plot line could change completely. The mood of the book is both slow and steady, with not a dangerous feel, just a search for an item or a search for clues at times and other times, the mood is suspenseful, mysterious, and fast passed and there is a lot of danger or the need for quick thinking and decision-making. Overall, Digital Fortress is a good novel and is worth reading; it has a good plot, a suspenseful feel as you anxiously read toward the next shocking twist, and the danger that lurks around every corner. I give this book a 5-star rating. - Bruce H.

She Said Yes by Misty Bernall

On April 20, 1999, Cassie Bernall was asked a question ‘Do you believe in God’ by two students with guns. She was shot for answering yes. Although without the help of her parents, Cassie would have been down the same troubled path as her killers. This is the sad story of Cassie Bernall’s short, but inspiring life.

This story makes you think about what you really believe. In the same life or death situation would you still have stuck up for your beliefs like Cassie did? This story also made me appreciate parents more because I learned no matter what, they’re going to love you and help you through any problems you have. This touching tale gives you many new outlooks on life. - Natalie M

Soldier’s Heart by Gary Paulsen

This book report is about Soldier’s Heart. If you like books on wars, this is a book for you. This story takes place during the Civil War. There was a boy who had lived in the Civil War Era, and his name was Charley Goddard. He was a fifteen year old boy who lived in Minnesota and enlisted in the army. Charley went to battles and made a new friend. He learned that war isn’t a great adventure and lots of fun but, that lot’s of people die and get injured during wars.

Read this story by Gary Paulsen about a boy who went to war and came back a changed man. - Ronak P

Samurai Girl: The Book of The Sword by Carrie Asai

The lone survivor of a terrible plane crash in Japan, thought she was lucky when taken in by a wealthy rich Japanese family; how very wrong she was. Now on her wedding day in Los Angeles she is attacked by a ninja; loses the person she loved the most, her brother; and learns that everything about her family is a lie. Someone is out to get her and she must find out who. She must now forget the past. The old Heaven Kogo is gone; now she is the Samurai Girl.

I found this book interesting. A pampered princess has to become a samurai warrior. Throughout the book there is a secret that kept me reading. All the characters are keeping something from Heaven. - Saniya S

The Lovely Bones by Alice Segold

At the beginning of the novel, Susie Salmon is murdered by a strange neighbor, Mr. Harvey, who killed her in the cornfield behind her house. Susie is in heaven as she watches her family deal with her murder throughout their life. Her dad gets a suspicion that Mr. Harvey murdered her, but the police don’t help much since he is just “assuming”. One afternoon, Susie’s sister Lindsey, broke into Mr. Harvey’s house. She found some evidence to prove Mr. Harvey’s guilt. But before they could capture Mr. Harvey, he fled. As this was going on, Mrs. Salmon left the family and moved across the country. Many years passed with Susie gone. She would watch her family as they changed.

Altogether I didn’t like this book because it was too depressing and sad to read. Nothing good or hopeful aspired in the entire book. -- Hannah K

The Other Side of Dark by Joan Lowery Nixon

When Stacy McAdams wakes up after a 4 year coma she doesn’t realize her mother is dead until her father tells her. At first all she sees is a blurry, distorted image of the killer. Then when Stacy and her friends go to a party the blurry image becomes a face, the face of …

Well you’ll just have to read the rest yourself. I loved this book. It is definitely a plus if you like mysteries. This author, Joan Lowery Nixon, paints a very vivid picture in your mind. This book definitely grabbed me. I don’t exactly know why though. The end of this book has a secret revealed. You should definitely read this. You’ll love it! – Tracie C.

The Bridesmaid by Hailey Abbott

This is the story of 2 girls who as young children made a sacred pact – never to turn into a bridezilla. But when Carol comes home and drops the bomb that she and a boy (Tucker Robb) were getting married Abby was mortified. This is the story of a bride, 2 parents (who are almost thrown apart), Noah Abby’s crush Christopher, and Delia (Abby’s best friends and enemies) A trip to Italy, a phone call, dress shopping, and soccer, oh and a groom. Read the story and you’ll see what I mean, it’s a wonderful Romantic comedy anyone will love. – Melissa L.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling

This book report is about Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. If you like the Harry Potter series like I do or action and adventure books this is a book for you. In the world of muggles and wizards there is a boy named Harry Potter. He lives with his evil aunt Petunia and uncle Vernon and their greedy son Dudley. Harry goes back to Hogwarts, for his third year with the help of his friends. He finds out that there is an evil wizard that has escaped Azkaban Prison and people are worried he will go to Hogwarts. They believe he killed thirteen people at one time. Harry is not safe in Hogwarts because the prisoner is after him. Read this book to find out what Harry learns about this prisoner and what he really did. – Ronak P.

The Lost Boy by Dave Pelzer

This book is the story of Dave; a child who is freed and put into a foster home. Trying to find the love of a family that he never had at his true home, he went to five home s and a place called the hill. He also almost gets put into a mental institute. But of all sadness when Dave leaves his mom creates a new victim, his brother Russel. His father drinks so much he could die. By the end of the book David has been in one person’s home for a long time and I don’t want to ruin the rest. – Melissa L.

Inuyasha: Volume 8 by Rumiko Takahashi

In this volume, Kikiyou has just been resurrected. She is looking at life as she did before she died. Inuyasha, Miroku, Kagome, and Shippo are fighting demons as usual to get the shards of the Shikon Jewel: Kikiyou also visits her sister Kaede, who tells her to go back. She finds Inuyasha and he still loves her. Kikiyou sticks Kagame to the tree. She watches Inu-yasha talk to Kikiyou about how much he missed her. Kagime who thought Inuyasha loved her, is mad and confused. She also know the truth. Is Kikiyou going to have Inuyasha and take him with her? Or will Kagome’s love unbind Inuyasha’s love? – Nilma M.

Inuyasha: Volume 2 by Rumiko Takashi

In the second volume of Inuyasha, a new character comes. His name is Lord Sessho-maru. He is Inu-yasha’s half-brother, older and full demon. Inuyasha, who’s a half demon, half human will have to face him. They both have hated each other since they’ve know each other. Sesso-maru’s not only come to kill Inu-yasha, but to get a treasure, that their father left behind. Who will defeat each other? Will Inuyasha or Sesso-maru get the treasure? What will happen to Kagome? – Nilma M.

Inuyasha: A Fuedal Fairytale by Rumiko Takahashi

Inuyasha, a half demon, who struggles to find the Shikon Jewel, stuck with his past, and faces his present.

Kagame Higurashi, a schoolgirl in modern day Tokyo, Japan doesn’t believe in legends and myths until one day. Her grandfather gives her the jewel of four souls or the Shikon Jewel. Then a hideous monster put her out to their well and into a whole new world. There she sees a familiar tree, the one in her backyard, only with a boy stuck to it by an arrow. Villagers surround her and take her to the old priestess Kaede. She learns about the Shikon Jewel and its powers. She also learns she is the reincarnation of Kaede’s dead sister, a priestess named Kikiyo. She awakes Inuyasha, and then Kagome accidently shatters the Shikon Jewel into many pieces. Will Inuyasha and Kagome find all the pieces together and return the jewel? – Nilma M.

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

Twilight, by Stephanie Meyer, is a dark and tantalizing tale about a teenage girl, and her vampire lover, and of the challenges they face about their differences.

Isabella (Bella) Swan is a normal teenage girl. Her parents are divorced, and his year, she decides to live with her father in the gloomy town of Forks, Washington. Everything seems absolutely normal, boring, and plain. Then, when she arrives at her school, Forks High School, her life takes a wild and terrifying turn. Bella meets the mysterious and alluring Edward Cullen, and she falls head over heels in love with him. Edward, in turn, also falls hard for Bella. Of course, there is a catch. Edward Cullen is a vampire. Edward must do everything he can to keep Bella safe, for as he says, anything within a ten-mile radius of her is considered dangerous. Then, all of a sudden, a certain danger appears in Forks, and now, Edward and Bella must protect each other with their lives.

Twilight is a wonderful book for teens of all ages. It had a very dark, and gothic mood to it. Bella was a pessimistic girl, who had nothing positive to say about anything, then, when she met Edward, her whole life changed. Her personality was lighter, and she was happier. Stephanie Meyer has weaved a thrilling and tantalizing story of love, and the sacrifices you must make for it. – Olivia R.

The Great Tree of Avalon: Child of the Dark Prophecy by T. A. Barron

This book is about the mysterious world of Avalon and the travels of Tamwyn, Merlin’s true heir, who has to find out who –or what he really is. At the age of 10 he is separated from his adopted brother, Scree, that is part eagle and part human. Tamwyn keeps having this strange vision of and old man giving a staff to his brother. On his quest to be reunited with his brother and to find out why the stars are going out one by one, he bumps into, or should I say falls on top of Elli and her maryth, Nuic, and Lynia and her maryth, Fairlyn, along with a hoolah, Hemmi. Together they journey to find the mysterious, Lady of the Lake, Merlin’s staff, and if possible even Merlin himself.

I loved this book. The story’s filled with adventure with a plot line that moves swiftly along. All the characters are interesting and come with their own secrets. – Olivia R.

Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment by James Patterson

Meet Max, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gasman, and Angel. Six perfectly normal kids, except for one little thing. They are ninety eight percent human, two percent bird. Before they were born, they had bird DNA grafter into them. At birth, they were taken to a lab called ‘the School’, and were used for a series of horrifying and painful experiments. They escaped from the lab, and were living free, until the wolf-like mutants called the Erasers fund their home. The Erasers kidnap Angel, sending the other five on a wild chase to get her back. They then find out that there is an institute in New York that is information on their parents, where they live, and thousands of other mutant children experiments. Think they can save them? Hop on for the ride. The Maximum Ride.

James Patterson has written a page turner full of suspense, mystery, and non-stop action. Filled with witty humor, Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment is a book that you won’t be able to put down. – Olivia R.

East by Edith Pattou

The moment Ebba Rose was born, her family knew she would be different, from her purple eyes, to the fact that she had been born facing the north. As her mother says, babies born facing north will be adventurous and troublesome. One day, Rose’s sister Sara falls ill, and her parents become extremely worried. Then, out of the blue, comes a white bear. He claims he can heal Sara, and also help the family in their poverty, as long as he can have Rose in exchange. Rose’s mother, following her superstitious ways, agrees to it. Her father is against it. Of course, Rose decides for herself that she must go. The bear takes Rose to a beautiful castle in France, where she lives our her days, sewing, and learning to play music, but at night a stranger she cannot see sleeps in her bed beside her, and she has a strong suspicion that he is in fact, the white bear. One night, Rose lights a candle, and sees that is a man with golden hair, but hot tallow drips onto him, and he is awakened, and with a few rods of pain and sorrow explaining his curse, he is whisked away by a beautiful woman in a chariot. Now Rose must find him and save him from his fate.

Edith Pattou has written a beautiful Norwegian rendition of Beauty and the Beast. It takes place in sixteenth century Europe, and has the air of mystery and magic. East is a wonderful tale of a girl who defied all odds to save the one she loved. – Olivia R.

Dark Fusion: Duckling Ugly by Neal Shusterman

Let’s face it. Cara DeFido is the ugliest girl, no, person, in Flock’s Rest. She’s so ugly, her face can break mirrors. Literally. Her life was miserable, until one day, she receives a mysterious letter. There’s no name. Just a return address. The letter has three words: Find the answers. Cara is curious, so for weeks, she tries to figure out what the letter means by find the answers. The cutest boy in school then throws a bomb by asking her to the homecoming dance. It ends horribly, with him throwing up in the punch bowl. Cara runs away, and finds the place the letter came from. The place is called De Leon. It’s a beautiful valley, where everything ugly is given a chance to become beautiful. That is exactly what happens to Cara. But now, Cara has a serious taste for revenge, revenge against the people who made her life miserable.

Neal Shusterman has written a darkly humorous book, a mix of ‘The Ugly Ducking’, and the fabled tale of the Fountain of Youth. Its a dark humor and horror is sure to give readers a chill. – Olivia R.

Things Not Seen by Andrew Clements

On a normal morning in February, fifteen-year-old Bobby Phillips wakes up and realizes he is invisible. With his “Joe Physics” of a father, and his blind friend, Alicia, Bobby tries to figure out how to go back to normal. When his parents are injured in a car accident, Bobby tries to survive normal life with his “disability”, and avoid his nosy neighbor. After missing three weeks of school, the State Department of Children and Family Services gets involved. If the Phillips family can’t prove that Bobby is alive and well, Bobby’s parents could get sent to jail. Will Bobby be able to save his family in time?

Things Not Seen is a suspenseful story about being accepted by friends, even if you are invisible or blind. I liked how Alicia and Bobby from their disabilities, and how Bobby’s parents were willing to go to jail to protect him. Andrew Clements is really able to make you feel like you are in Bobby’s place. Things Not Seen is a magnificent book, and tells an imaginative tale. – Ellen P.

The Pearl by John Steinbeck

In 1947, John Steinbeck wrote “The Pearl.” It is a tale of wealth and the power it holds over its weak-hearted pursuers.

Kino, the mina character, finds a great pearl. Quickly the word gets out. Sadly, Kino realizes that no one cares about his welfare and that all the others want is his pearl. Finally, someone sneaks into Kino’s house to steal the pearl. Kino kills the intruder. Realizing his wrongdoing Kino flees. On the run for several days, Kino makes the decision to kill the trackers. In the confusion, a shot is fired and Kino’s son is hut! John Steinbeck in the course of the story shows how the alleged answer ends up being the greatest problem.

Steinbeck’s unique style of writing supplies the reader with detail but at the same time gets straight to the point. His characters respond well with the plot’s surroundings and situations. Because of its well-written plot, the underlining meanings, and his unique writing style, I highly recommend reading “The Pearl.” – Mary C.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

"Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” was written by J. K. Rowling and tells the story of the strange happenings that occur at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Harry Potter, the main character, risks death to find out who is making these strange events occur.
Because her sentences are descriptive and exciting, Rowling’s in an enjoyable author. The following passage shows how this is true:

“The enormous serpent, bright, poisonous green, thick as an oak trunk, had raised itself high in the air and its great blunt head was weaving drunkenly between the pillars.”

This book is an adventurous book that contains two great morals: Always be brave when times are most frightening, and never loose hope when things seem hopeless. It is a great read. – Magdalene C.

The Invitation by Diane Hoh

An invitation to the richest, most popular girl's annual Fall party arrives at the doorsteps of five teenage friends, outcasts of the crowd. The party begins with a silly, childlike game of Musical Chairs. Then, one by one, the five friends are lured away, trapped, ruthlessly attacked, then left for dead. One of the trapped friends, Sarah, escaped to try to find her friends before the attacker had gotten to her. Romance stirs between Sarah and Riley White, the tall, handsome heartthrob who began helping Sarah try to save her friends. With an eerie twist around every corner, I know you'll just die if you don't read this bloodcurdling novel! -Timmy W.

Princess in Love by Meg Cabot

This book is about Mia, a freshman in high school and the princess of Genovia, trying to reach self-actualization, get over problems in high school, and prepare for her trip to Genovia. While preparing to go to Genovia, she has to take princess lessons from her pushy grandmother, Dowager Princess of Genovia. As if that isn't hard enough, she has problems in her social and love life. For example, almost everyone in her school thinks she's a freak, she doesn't like her boyfriend, she is in love with her best friend's brother, Michael, and her best friend is a genius. I thought this story was very good. It's different from the movie, but it has it's own special twist to it. One thing that I didn't like was how Mia waited too long to tell Michael her feelings for him. This is because he might have felt the same way, and she's just too shy. The mood of the book was sometimes a bit negative, but it was still good. The thing that grabbed me was that it has problems you can relate to and understand. It's just a great book to read. -Jisun K.

Skellig by David Almond

Michael was a young boy, eager to move into his new house. Now, his baby sister is ill, and a doctor nicknamed Dr. Death has come to call. Michael feels terrible and upset, until he steps into a crumbling garage. Underneath all the spiderwebs and dead flies lies a creature named Skellig. In this discovery, he can only consult his friend, Mina, the only one who will believe him. What is Skellig? An angel? A man? Or a bird?

SKELLIG is a touching mystery about the powers of friendship, nature, and the healing power of love. A truly haunting story, Skellig is unforgettable. A dark, moody story to the very end, David Almond weaves a beautiful tale, describing how fragile life can be at its end, or at its beginning. -Olivia R.

The Great God Pan by Donna Jo Napoli

Pan is a hybrid. A half goat, half god. He is cursed, and the curse states that he can transform into other creatures, but he cannot transform into a complete goat or god. He can only do this if he truly loves someone and she loves him back. Until now, he has lived in his forest home, dancing among the flowers and maenads, until he saw a human in the forest. Iphigenia, daughter of Helen and Theseus, but raised by Queen Clymenestra and king Agamemnon, soon learns to love Pan, and Pan loves her. The day Iphigenia's mother, Helen, is kidnapped, is the day Pan must make the most important choice of his life.

THE GREAT PAN is a touching story about true love, woven together magnificently by Donna Jo Napoli. This tale is wonderful for people who love reading about Greek myths and stories about Greek gods. This story has a light and happy mood, until the prophecies and the curse take place in the book. What caught my eye about this book was that it was by Donna Jo Napoli, an amazing writer that takes old myths, legends, and folktales and transforms them into amazing stories. -Olivia R.

The Kin by Peter Dickinson

In Neolithic Africa, the Moon hawk clan suddenly finds themselves driven from their home by murderous strangers. The clan leader takes what remains of the clan on a search for a new home, but is forced to leave the young and weak children behind to fend for themselves in the desert. For two older children, Suth and Noli, this is unacceptable. They go back to rescue the stranded children and are now faced with the enormous struggle for survival in the barren wasteland of the desert.

This epic adventure of these children's struggles to find a new home is one that the reader will find truly remarkable. This book is well-written and easy to follow while it captures the hardships and triumphs of these children creating an amazing entertaining novel. -Tanya j.

The Oracle Betrayed by Catherine Fisher

Timid and shy, Mirany was not the person expected to be chosen as the Bearer of the God. Even she is confused by the choice as her sel-confidence wavers. However, before she even has a chance to settle into her new position, she uncovers a horrific plot to betray the Oracle and the God. Against her will, she realizes that she is the only person who can save the future of the God and his people. Relying on the half-drunk musician, Oldek, and opportunistic scribe, Seth, she is faced with a challenge unlike anything the world has ever seen.

This novel is full of suspense and non-stop excitment. A story of betrayal, faith, and trust, the reader is kept on the edge of their seat throughout the entire plot. -Tanya J.

Doormat by Kelly McWilliams

This book is about a girl named Jaime. Her friend, Melissa, tells her she's pregnant, but Jaime doesn't believe her. After doing a pregnancy test, they realize that she's pregnant. But the problem is, Melissa is Catholic: and can't get abortion. Melissa refuses to tell her parents and is struck with morning sickness. One day during school, Zach, who is part of the drama club, overhears them talking and offers help. So basically, this book is about a girl telling her best friend she's pregnant, and her best friend helps her. I didn't really like this book that much. I thought it was sort of "plain". It was more like one event, then another and so on. I didn't find many details. It wasn't very touching. I give it a 6 out of 10. -Jisun K.

Pictures in the Dark by Patricia McCord

This is a really good but sad book. The main characters, Sarah, 12, and Carlie, 15, have a really big secret. They never know what may set off their mother. They dont know whether they'll get dinner, use the bathroom, get a bath, or talk to a new friend. And most likely, their dad doesn't know. This is a story about two girls who try to make their lives as normal as possible. When their mom gets a job, it's one of the most exciting news because they won't have to see their mother after school, therefore allowing them to use the bathroom, get something to eat, and talk on the phone. But one day, Carlie gets asked to a date with Jesse, the boy that works at a gas station nearby. Having nothing to wear, Carlie goes into her mother and father's bedroom when they are both at work and tries on one of her mother's dresses. But that day, their mother comes home early, and her mother screams mean names and beats Carlie while Sarah begs her mother to stop. The next morning, a very tired and angry Carlie decides to run away. Their mother thinks that she'll return later today, but she was proven wrong.

I really enjoyed reading this book because it was interesting how a broken up family can get back together. This story is very touching. It gives me hope because even though they had it bad, they made it through. So it makes me feel like I could make it, too. -Jisun K.

Princess in Waiting by Meg Cabot

PRINCESS IN WAITING is the sequel to Princess in Love. In my opinion they are both great books. In this one, Princess Mia is in Genovia, the country in which she is heir to the throne. Previously, in Princess in Love, Mia told Michael her feelings for him at the Winter Ball, and they became a couple. He had also felt the same way. But now, Mia is in Genovia for a month. While there, she had to give a televised Christmas Eve greeting to the Genovian public, meet Genovian Parliament, meet with the prime minister of England, and get her boyfriend a birthday present, and much more. For instance, her grandmother teaches her something about love. She says that you must keep Michael, or any other boyfriend she may have later on, keep "chasing" her. (ex. He should call, not you, many presents, etc.) Mia tells Tina, her friend, and they both decide that's just what they'll do. When she finally gets back to New York, Michael asks Mia to go on their first date, later ruined when she is forced to go to the Black and White ball with her grandmother, Dowager Princess of Genovia, on the same day. So now, Mia thinks that she is going to be dumped by Michael because she had to cancel their first date. I'm going to stop there so I won't give away the ending. I really enjoyed this book. The only thing I don't like is how Mia thought Michael was going to dump her just because she had to serve her country and had to cancel their first date. Like the last book, Mia waited too long to tell him, she's just too quiet and shy. I think this is a great book because for once in life, you don't just focus on your problems. This is a really cool book.
-Jisun K.

The Princess Present by Meg Cabot

This is another book from the Princess Diaries series. Mia, the main character, is in Genovia, and her best friend LIlly and her boyfriend Michael are coming from the states to spend their Christmas in Genovia. Mia's grandmother, Dowager Princess of Genovia, has royals all over the world coming to their castle for a Christmas ball. But unfortunately, many problems occur such as Mia and Lilly getting into a fight, cats coming for food, and a drowning cruise ship! I thought this book was pretty good. It wasn't as good as the other Princess Diaries book but I still liked it. I give this a 7 out of 10. The part I didn't like was how Lilly was hooking up with 3 guys in one day. She's supposed to be a genius! But besides that, I enjoyed reading this book. -Jisun K.

A Wizards Dozen: Stories of the Fantastic, edited by Michael Stearns

In A WIZARDS DOZEN there are many good stories of wizards. The one I will report on is "The Sixty-two Curses of Caliph Arenschadd". This Caliph is a very interesting man. He keeps a list of curses so that every time he gets mad at some people they get cursed, and then if they get cursed again they get cursed with the second curse which is worse, and this pattern keeps on going. One man is on a bad curse and is turned into a werewolf. To stop himself being turned into a werewolf, he apologizes, and it is accepted. He asks to have the curse removed, but there is no antidote. His son figures something to do and makes the Caliph really angry. The Caliph cursed him again and that got rid of the curse. The Caliph suddenly knew what had been done. He laughed and said don't do it again. This is a good book, but very magical. I enjoyed it considerably. -Joshua M.

Into the Cold Fire by Lynne Ewing

The Atrox wants Serena, and she doesn't know why, until she finds out she's the key. If Serena turns into a Follower, the balance between good and evil is shifted, and darkness will overrule the good. The Atrox offers her to become an Immortal. To do this, she must first step into the cold fire. The Daughter of the Moon think of a plan, but it gets messed-up in very surprising ways. Serena goes into the cold fire. Can her friends bring her back to the good side or will they die trying?

I enjoyed this book because it was thrilling and always had a surprise around the corner. -Nicole G.

Goddess of the Night by Lynne Ewing

Vanessa always knew she was different. She and her best friend, Catty. Vanessa can turn invisible, while Catty can time travel. They didn't think there was anyone else like them until they met Serena and her best friend, Jimena. Serena can read minds, and Jimena has premonitions. Serena takes Vanessa to see Maggie after Catty disappears. Maggie tells Vanessa that she is a goddess, a Daughter of the Moon. So are Serena, Jimena, and Catty. They have to work together to stop the evil forces of the Atrox and Followers. On top of all that, Vanessa has to figure out how to control her gift so that every time her new boyfriend, Michael, tries to kiss her she won't disappear before his eyes.

I loved this book because it was surprising and showed that even goddesses have problems. -Nicole G.

Night Shade by Lynne Ewing

Jimena has the gift to see premonitions, and so far she hasn't stopped one from happening. Jimena sees a premonition of Veto, who was once the love of her life, falling into the earth; but there is one problem. Veto's dead, or at least she thought he was. Veto was killed a year ago when Jimena was still in her gang. Veto was shot by a rival gang, but somehow he is coming to see her. At first she thought he was a ghost, but soon discovers he is all flesh and bone. That's not the only thing she discovers. Veto has made a deal with the Atrox that could cost them both their lives.

I loved this book. It was spooky and surprising at the same time. It shows that nothing will keep one lover from the one that he loves the most. Not even death! -Nicole G.

The Outcast of Redwall

THE OUTCAST OF REDWALL is a story of a badger lord named Sunfash the Mace, for his golden strire, and an evil ferret warlord named Swartt Sixclaw. Sunflash doesn't know it, but he is lord of a mountain called Salamandastron. Swartt has a son which he abandons, and a maid from Redwall finds him. She claims she can train him to be kind, but nobody believes her. My favorite part of the book is the battle between Sunflash and Swartt. -Michael K.

The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner

Gen is in prison for bragging that he can steal anything. He is in jail for awhile when the magus sets him free because he wants Gen to steal something. Gen finds out it is Hamiathe's Gift, which is only a legend. The magus also tells Gen that the king wants the gift so he can marry the queen of Eddis. If the king has Hamiathe's Gift, the queen of Eddis will have to marry him. Gen doesn't even know if the Stone is real. Is there such a thing as Hamiathe's Gift, and can he get it? The Thief is very interesting, and I liked it very much. -Michael K.

Star Wars, Tyrant's Test by Michael P. Kube-Mcdowell

I thought this book was interesting. It is the third book in a trilogy by the same author. There are a few different stories that all wrap up together at the end. Chewbacca is visiting his family on his home planet. Luke is trying to locate his mother with the help of a new character, Akanah. She has a power similar to the Force called the Current. Lando, Lobot, and the droids are stuck on a mysterious ship that they just learned how to control. I like Luke and Lando;'s story, but the others were really boring. I recommend the book to any Star Wars fan. -Ellen D.

Girls in Pants by Ann Brashares

GIRLS IN PANTS was about four best friends on their third and last summer together. Lena deals with her father and how he doesn't want her to go to art school. Carmen has to take care of Valia, Lena's grandmother, and getting a new baby brother. Bridget works at soccer camp and meets an old friend. Tibby's little sister falls out of a tree. This book was good because it was about relations with other people, and I could relate to a lot of the scenarios. -Hannah K.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling

There have been many problems with the war, and they haven't been going well for the Ministry of Magic. Harry Potter gets suspicious of who are death eaters , and he learns about Voldemort's past and immortality. -Hannah K.

Ultimate Spider-man. Vol. 7: Irresponsible. Script by Brian Michael Bendis, pencils by Mark Bagley.

Unlike most graphic novels, this one is not completely loaded with action, which is good for a change. The Ultimate Spider-man series has definitely improved some, due to realistic dialogue, character interaction, and better artwork. The story is about the young superhero Spider-man (this time with no costume!) and another young boy with special abilities and an unknown origin. The X-Men mutants show up to help the foreign lad discover who and what he is. Overall, it was a fine reading, but the preachiness and teenage drama keep one from giving it a 5. -David D.

Batman: Hush Vol. 2 by Jeph Loeb; Jim Lee, penciller

This novel was even better than the first in the series. After catching Poison Ivy in the first volume, Batman finds out that she also was part of one huge scheme, the mastermind still unknown. While the relationship between Batman and Catwoman grows and develops, Batman comes closer to discovering the shocking identity of the mastermind and his twisted motives. Once again, I am stunned by the feelings displayed by each character and the remarkable art that makes this novel a perfect 5. -David D.

Batman: Hush Vol. 1 by Jeph Loeb; Jim Lee, penciller.

We've come a long way since the first 1950s comics. The old, corny dialogue has been replaced by memorable lines that make you feel that you're right there with the characters hearing everyone say. This graphic novel went way beyond my expectations. It's about a series of problems that have Batman stressed out. Turns out his nemesis, Poison Ivy, has been using her seductive powers to manipulate Batman's other enemies to cause trouble. Catwoman (one of the villans that was temporarily under Ivy's control) teams up with Batman, hoping to get revenge on Ivy. The chemistry between the two was outstanding, the way they play off each other. The greatest part of the novel was the breathtaking illustrations, each a mural of its own. -David D.

Dragons in the Water by Madeleine L'Engle

Simon Renier goes to Venezuela to sell a portrait for his aunt with his Uncle Forsyth. On the way, he befriends Polly and Charles O'Keefe, who are going with their father. On the way, there was an attempt to murder Simon. To add to the mystery, someone on board was murdered and the portrait was stolen. When they land in the Port of Dragons, the police investigate the murder and think they found the murderer but didn't know how the portrait was stolen. Who was the murderer, and who stole the portrait? Read the book to find out. I liked the book because it's full of mytery and suspense. -Michael K.

Princess Lessons by Meg Cabot

The book PRINCESS LESSONS goes along with the series The Princess Diaries. This book teaches you how to be a princess. This book has it all, preventing your tiara from falling off, self defense, what every girl needs, keeping your pores clean, manners, and much more! I thought this book was funny and very interesting. I really enjoyed this book. It's something that I would enjoy reading again. This book tells you how to be a princess or just live like one. -Jisun K.

The Dead Game by A.Bates

Linnie, Ming, and Jackson were typical high school seniors in a school full of cheats, fakes and liars. Unable to stang these rivals. they decided to take revenge. They created The Dead Game, in which " killing" your target meant publicly humiliating that person. After one victim became hospitalized and another dead, the three friends stopped playngh, but The Dead Gme didn't stop. Te others on their "hit" list were still being torented and Linnie, Ming,and Jackson become even more suspicious by the minute. As each character's personality eerily unravels, you won't know whom to trust. This attention-grabbing, mind-boggling story kept me reading by the extraordinary writing style and bizzare twists. It's sure to send shivers down your spine. -Timmy W.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling

If you like suprises, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is a book for you. This book is about Harry finding out who the half-blood prince is and discovering Voldemort's Horcruxes. Harry has to make a new Quidditch team, and he gets some surprises while he's playing Quidditch. Headmaster Dumbledore decides to give Harry some lessons in his office, and these are supposed to help him in the future. In the end, someone has to kick the bucket, so read this book to find out who that is. I liked this book because it was so interesting I never wanted to put it down. If you have read the other Harry Potter books, you will notice the author's writing style is different and compared to the other books in the series it is darker and depressing. I liked it and I hope you like it too. -Ronak P.

Princess in the Spotlight by Meg Cabot

PRINCESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT is the second volume in the Princess Diaries set. This time, Mia learns that her mother is going to have her algebra teacher's baby!!! Mia's mother and Algebra teacher elope. Mia gets a secret admirer who will not say who he is. Lilly, Mia's best friend, is very upset because she did not get the first interview with Mia. This is one of the best books that I have ever read. -Kaitlyn D.

The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot

THE PRINCESS DIARIES is a fictional diary about a young girl named Mia Thermopolis. In the book, she finds out her father is the prince of Genovia and she is heir to the throne. Her mother is Helen Thermopolis, an artist who is dating Mia's algebra teacher. Mia's grandmother is the dowager princess giving her princess lessons. Mia is also madly in love with her best friend's brother. And to top it all off, she is flunking algebra. This is one of the best books I have ever read. -Kaitlyn D.

The Magic Circle by Donna Jo Napoli

High up on a mountain, deep in its woods, lives an old witch known as the Ugly One. She longs to forget that she is now a witch, claimed by devils and demons; she wants to return to being a loving mother, midwife, and healer she once was. One day, she hears the sound she never wanted to hear again. The sound of foot steps. Children's footsteps. She now longs to take care of the young girl named Gretel and her younger brother Hansel, just as she took care of her daughter Asa. They are so beautiful and good hearted. Yet the devils and demons in her head screm," Eat them!" How can she, but how can she ignore the demon's commands?

The Magic Circle is an emotional and compassionate book by Donna Jo Napoli. This book is an interesting tale about the witch in Hansel and Gretel, how she came to be, and her demise. People who love folktales and fairy tales will love this book. The mood of this book is compassionate and mystifying. What made this book catch my eye was that it was by Donna Jo Napol, an excellent writer. The Magic Circle is another great book by Donna Jo Napol. -Olivia R.

The Year of Secret Assignments

THE YEAR OF SECRET ASSIGNMENTS is a book about love, hate, learning not to use electrions, and dealing with crazy parents! These 3 girls start to write letters to 3 guys at a rival high school. This book was really good, and it made me feel different. When I read this book, I really did not feel anything. This book was not like any others that I had read. This was a really good book, and every teen should try to read it. -Kaitlyn D.

Rise of a Hero by Hilari Bell

Legend says that when Farsala needs a warrior, Sorahb will be restored by the god Azura. Now is that time. After a devestating loss to the Hrum army, Farsala has nearly fallen. Only the walled city, Mazad, and a few more of its uninhabited regions remain. Three young people, Soraya, Jiaan, and Kavi, are waging war against Hrum as best as they can. Alone, they cannot conquer the Hrum, as none of them are the Sorabh restored, but together, they can manage to destry the Hrum.

RISE OF A HERO is the sequel to the acclaimed book Fall of a Kingdon by Hilari Bell. This book is a great book for people who love Lord of the Ring type books or if they love medival tales about war and myths. This book has a dark mood of bloodshed and death, even until the end of unifiction. After reading the first book of The Farsala Triology, I ws compelled to read the second book. Rise of a Hero is just as amazing as Fall of A Kingdom.

-Olivia Ren

Song of the Lioness by Tamora Pierce

ALANNA: FIRST ADVENTURE is the first installment in the Song of the Lioness quartet. It is about a young girl, Alanna, and her brother, Thom. Their father is sending Alana off to learn how to be a lady and Thom off to be a knight. However, Thom wants to learn to be a sorcerer, and Alanna wants to be a Knight of the Realm. So, being identical twins, Thom forges his fathers handwriting and writes different letters, saying Alanna is a young lad off to be a knight, and another that says Thom is off to learn sorcery. And off they go, Alanna disguised as a boy and off to the palace, and Thom off to be a sorcerer,

And so Alanna begins becoming a page (the first step towards your knight's shield). Along the way she befriends Prince Jonathan, heir to the throne of Tortall, Raal of Goldenlake, Gareth of Naxan, Alexander of Tirragen, and Francis of Nond, in which all rank to squires (the second step of becoming a knight). She also meets people outside the palace, such as George Cooper of the lower city, King of Thieves, and his friends.

However, with friends also come enemies. Enter Ralon of Malven and Duke Roger of Cante. However, with the help of George Cooper, Alanna learns to fight only with her hands and can easily defend herself against Ralon. But Duke Roger is different. Hidden beneath the world's most powerful sorcerer's face and handsome features is something terribly evil. And then the sweating sickness comes. When Jon gets it, Alanna is forced to reach inside herself for the Gift, which she so abhorrs. Using so much that she is struggling for life herself, she manages to save Jonathan. But who sent the sweating sickness?? It is something nobody knows, but Alanna finds out. It happens when the squires go on an annual field trip. This year, they are going to the Black City, cursed and haunted by the Nameless Ones. With special permission, Duke Roger organizes and takes the squires on the field trip. With special permission from Jon, who had special permission from Duke Roger, Alanna is allowed to come with the squires. However Duke Roger had a chilling plan that only he knows about...

I thought that this book was excellent in many ways. It was fiction, nonfiction, fantasy, sci-fi, suspense, and mystery all in one. However, I thought that Alanna got upset by the littlest things. I also thought that the book was easy to predict, but other than that, it was good. Tamora Pierce got to the point of the story at the very beginning. Alanna: First Adventure was an excellent book. -Ashlyn T.

Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman

STUCK IN NEUTRAL was about a boy named Shawn McDaniel. He suffers from cerebral palsy (C.P.). This story is about his life and is narrated by him. The story he tells is so powerful and moving that I read it in one sitting. It totally changed the way I look at people now and what I think about them. This book is hard to describe, but it is the best book I have ever read. I recommend it to anyone and everyone the age of 11 or older. Highly recommended. -Ashlyn T.

The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

When symbologist Robgert Langdon is woken up at midnight by the Police Judiciare, he knows that the night will be a long one. He is asked for his professional interpretation of a murder of a famous museum curator, only to find that he is the police's prime suspect. Before he can realize it, he becomes a high-profile fugitive attempting to both prove his innocence and uncover a mystery that has been kept secret for 2,000 years.

This book is a delicious mix between Indiana Jones and National Treasure, a nonstop action thriller with the allure of uncovering the greatest secret kept hidden by the Church since the time of Christ. Full of excitement, this novel will set your heart racing. -Tanya J.

The Pack by Elise Carbone

When Becky first saw the new kid, who refused to sit in a chair during English class and threw a book at their teacher, she thought he was the strangest person she'd ever met. However, as time went on, she discovers that he is not the one to be worried about. A plot is uncovered that will threaten almost everyone she knows.

This chilling novel makes the problem of teen hate groups and school violence frighteningly real. It is truly a magnificent piece of writing, and I recommend it to any lover of suspense.

Tanya Johnson

The Opal Deception by Eoin Colfer

The Opal Deception is the fouth book in the Artemis Fowl series. It starts with Artemis trying to steal a prized painting and beign unsuccessful. He has been brain washed so he remembers nothing of the fairies. He meet Holly after an attempt on his life by Opal Koboi. Opal has already killed Jullies. Hoppy is on the run because the LEP's think she killed Jullies. Butler is left behind and he runs into Mulch Diggums who give him a disk that not only refreshes his memory but he immediately knows what kind of danger they are in. They rescue Holly and Artemis from Opal and figure out she plan to give up fairies to the human race. They immediately set out to stop it and they do get Holly's good name back nd get Opal. This is a really good book and I am sure you will enjoy it.

-Josh Meneely

The Courtship of Princess Leia by Dave Wolverton

This was one of the best Star Wars books I've read. Wolverton creates new characters that are appealing to a Star Wars fan. Leia is pursued by a handsome Hapan, who she may marry. Of course, Han Solo won't let that occur, so he kidnaps Leia and takes her to a planet which happens ot be an Empire warlord's terrritory. Read it to find out what happens! -Ellen D.

The Samurai's Tale by Erik Christian Haugaard

When Murakami was just a child, his father, a great samurai, and his mother were killed by an invading lord. He was allowed to live, but was given the name Taro which was worthy only of a servant. Living out his young life in poverty, Taro still had hopes to become samurai one day. The task proved to be more difficult than he could possibly imagine.

A beautifully written piece, this tale depicts life in war-stricken Japan, illustrating the life of a samurai warrior. I thought that this was a very interesting read. The intricate social structures and complex customs of Japan were fascinating to learn about as the were flawlessly meshed into the plot of the story. A tale of loyalty, honor, and love, this novel is a masterpiece.

-Tanya Johnson

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J. K. Rowling

HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX is by J. K. Rowling and is the fifth book in the Harry Potter series. It is about Harry and his past with Voldemort, also know as He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. So far, in Harry's fifth term, he faces the worst Dark Arts professor; she even throws out Headmaster Dumbledore. Eventually, Harry's friend, Hermione, thinks of a way to get rid of the nasty professor. Sadly, something bad happens to Harry's godfather and the orb belonging to the Dark Lord and Harry. Read this book to find out the worst of it. This book is a fantasy with adventure and a little mystery. If you like authors with a good writing style, this is the book for you. -Ronak P.

Artemis Fowl: The Opal Deception by Eoin Colfer

I read the book ARTEMIS FOWL: THE OPAL DECEPTION by Eoin Colfer. This book in the series takes place a while after Artemis's mind wipe. He has returned to his criminal ways. Meanwhile, Captain Holly Short is up for promotion to Major. However, Opal is about to come out of her self-induced coma, and she has revenge on mind.

The mood of the story changes a lot. It begins with a happy mood and stays that way until Commander Root dies. From there it goes from bad to good to bad and then starts all over again, bad to good to bad.
I especially like when Artemis and Holly had to team up to save the world. The action rises as they are chased by trolls . Also, Artemis and Butler get their memories back. The climax is when Holly, Butler, Artemis, and Mulch defeat Opal. I really liked Artemis Fowl: The Opal Deception. -Bruce H.

Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment by James Patterson

This story starts out with six kids; Max, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gasman, and Angel. Six normal kids - except for the fact they each have wings and are running for their lives. They all grew up in a lab, called the School, and are like family now to each other. The group is always on the move, because the School sends Erasers, wolf-like creatures, to hunt them down. Their mission in this story is to save their youngest member, Angel, who has been caught by the School. They also plan to reak into a security facility to find their original families.

Maximum Ride is an eleven in a scale from one to ten. It's an extremely well-written science fiction story. It's full of adventure and suspense. You never know for sure what might happen in this story. James Patterson writes a fantastic story that you want to read. -Christine Y.

Garfield Rolls On by Jim Davis

I really liked this comic book. They are very funny . Many of the Garield comics in the newspapers now aren't funny. This is an earlier work of Davis, and he wrote the comics very well. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to laugh. -Ellen D.

The Snow by Caroline B. Coony

Christina, a seventh-grader, lives in the Schooner Inne with the Shevvingtons. Christina goes to the school on the island and lives in the Inne with four other children, in the book The Snow. Christina thinks that the Shevvingtons are evil because they made Anya, a young sane girl, go insane. They seem to be nice people, but christina believes they have a hidden agenda to kill the children. Throughout this book, Christina tries to save herself, Dolly, who is another little girl, and the old Anya. My favorite part of this bookis how Blake, the young, handsome man who Christina loves. but he loves Anya, protects Christina from the Shevvingtons. I also liked how Christina saved Dolly from the Shevvingtons' insane son. -Chessa H.

RealTeens: Diary of a Junior Year; Vol 1

REAL TEENS: THE DIARY OF A JUNIOR YEAR, VOL.1 is made up of diaries of jumior boys and girls who are all friends. The friends are Marybeth Miller, Billy shah, Teresa Falcone, Jake Barossa, Katie Carson, Edward Baxter, Emma West, and Kevin Moran. The diaries tell about their adventures in high school and their relationship problems. The funny part is that my high school is somewhat like theirs. That part was my favorite part of the book. My favorite character was Katie Carson. The reason I like Katie is because she is so much like me. She is loyal and trustworthy and tries hard to get good grades. -Chessa H.

The Whim of the Dragon by Pamela Dean

THE WHIM OF THE DRAGON is the last part in the three part series of The Secret Country. Even though it is the last, it has to be the best out of the three. It's full of adventure and mystery; you won't be able to put it down!

The story starts where the last book, The Hidden Land, left off. Ted, Laura, Ruth, Patrick, and Ellen are summoned back to the secret country to finish the story. (In the past stories, you learned that the group of children made up a story, The Secret Country, and would act it out every summer they got together. But they stumble upon a place actually called The Secret Country, and they were shocked to see that their story had come to life.) When summoned back, they had to face a dragon in order to save their beloved story.

To find out if the five children saved the country, pick up these books, and read them! -Christine Y.

The Witch's Boy by Michael Gruber

This fantasy story is one that makes the others seem like nothing. THE WITCH'S BOY has bits and pieces of the classic fairy-tales Jack and Jill , Hansel and Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood, and others. But along with those there is a twist that brings everything together. In a way, it's a whole new approach on the Phantom of the Opera, fantasy style.

The story actually starts out when a witch adopts an ugly, abandoned child. The witch, however, had no experience whatsoever with children, so she gave the responsibility of the child, now called Lump, to a caretaker bear named Ysul. Lump ends up growing hateful and bitter, because the witch always seemed to have something to do or somewhere else to be. Lump wreaks havoc at a nearby village for revenge, causing the witch to lose magic and job. They end up moving to a new town, scraping by with what they can. As Lump grows older, his heart grows harder, but he still manages to fall in love with the vainest girl in town, Aude.

What will happen to Lump? Will he get the girl of his dreams? Will his heart finally melt? Not only a good story but a good lesson as well in it . If you wanna know the ending of this fantastic story, go pick up the book now! -Christine Y.

A Wrinkle in Time

A WRINKLE IN TIME begins with Meg getting in trouble at school. This happens often. She gets home and has dinner with her brothers, Denny and Sandy (twins) and Charles Wallace, and her mother. Their father is working for the government and has disappeared. That night, Meg comes down to find Charles Wallace making hot chocolate. Her mom comes in and the three have hot chocolate together. A stranger comes in and talks to Charles Wallace as though they are friends (which they are). Later the next day, Meg and Charles are on their way to the stranger's house. They run into Calvin O'Keefe. They talk together and all continue to their walk to a stranger's house. They meet the stranger, Mrs. Whatsit, and her friend, Mrs. Who. After talking to them for a while, she tells them to come back later. That evening, Calvin, Charles, Meg, Mrs. Whatsit, and Mrs. Who and their friend, Mrs. Which, all meet together. They travel through space to the planet where Meg's and Charles ' father is. He is trapped by a huge brain named I.T. After several adventures, they get him out of his prison. All of them escape, except Charles Wallace who had his mind controlled by I.T. Meg returns and rescues Charles by saying that she loves him They escape together and return home for a big family reunion.This is a very good, but confusing, book. You should read it. -Josh M.

The Opal Deception by Eoin Colfer

THE OPAL DECEPTION is the fourth book in the Artemis Fowl series. It starts with Artemis trying to steal a prized painting and being unsuccessful. He has been brainwashed, so he remembers nothing of the fairies. He meets Holly after an attempt on his live Opal Koboi. Opal has already killed Jullies. Holly is on the run because the Leps think she killed Jullies. Butler is left behind, and he runs into Mulch Diggums who gives him a disk that not only refreshes his memory but he immediately knows what danger they are in. They rescue Holly and Artemis from Opal and figure out the plan to give up fairies to the human race. They immediately set out to stop it and do they get Holly's good name back and get Opal. This is a really good book, and I am sure you will enjoy it. -Josh M.

Wringer by Jerry Spinelli

WRINGER is a great and exciting book by Jerry Spinelli. Living a normal, but sad life, Palmer LaRue has really no friends. He only plays with Dorothy Gruzik, a sweet little girl who is one year younger than him. He finally gets this gang of kids who he wants to join, and he does. After his ninth birthday, he invites Beans, Mutto, and Henry, the gang members. The only way he can be in the gang, he has to get the treatment from Farquar, the most feared kid in town. He joins the gang, and his nickname is Snots. He fears only one day that he hoped would never come: Pigeon Day. On his tenth birthday, he has to wring the pigeons' necks that don't die whenever the shooters shoot them. He doesn't want to kill them. He also has a secret pigeon named Nipper. Will Palmer become a wringer? Will Palmer fight for what he believes in? All you have to do is pick up this book.

I liked the way how Palmer thought differently about something that everyone else thought only one way of. I liked how this book ended. It was very exciting and a great book for all ages. -Nilma M.