Saturday, December 04, 2010

Which Witch? by Eva Ibbotson

I recommend this book because it is very funny and perfect for fans of Harry Potter. A wizard, Arriman, must marry a witch, so he holds a competition on who can cast the darkest spells. Belladonna is madly in love with him, but she's a good witch, meaning she can only cast good spells. She'll do anything to marry him. I recommend this book to kids in 5th and middle school.

Kate I., grade 8

The Skeleton Key (Alex Rider Adventure) by Anthony Horowitz

This magnificent book written by the former number one New York Bestseller is full of thrilling adventures that definitely will keep you hooked. The story is about a young boy named Alex Rider who is sent as an undercover "son" of two other CIA agents to check what is going on with a Russian criminal agent in Cuba. When the two agents disappear, Alex gets worried! Read the book to find out what happens next! I recommend this boo to ages 11 and over.

Animesh M., grade 7

This Book is Not Good for You by P. Bosch

This is the 3rd book of the series, "The Name of this Book is Secret". Cass is on another adventure to stop evil and gain back peace. Fat chance that's gonna happen when a chocolate psycho kidnaps her mother. It's on!

Evelelyn B., grade 7

11 Birthdays by Wendy Mass

There is a boy named Leo and a girl named Amanda who share the same birthday. They spend every birthday together, but recently, they got into a fight. Now their 11th birthday is without each other. Amanda finishes her birthday party and goes to sleep, happy her birthday is over. But, there is one problem. Her birthday isn't over! The next day, it's her birthday again! She has to make up with Leo in order for her birthday to stop repeating! The theme is: Anything can happen whether you expect it or not.

Cindy T., grade 6

Crash by Jerry Spinelli

John Coogan's nickname is Crash. That's because one day, Crash used a football helmet and crashed into his cousin as his cousin yelled bloody murder. The only person that calls him John is a kid named Penn Webbs. Penn is the dorkiest, non-violent, vegetarian that happens to be his next-door neighbor. His best buddy, Mike, and him like to pick on Penn. Then one day, Mike steals Penn's pet turtle and forces him to eat meat in the cafeteria or else, he'll kill his turtle. What side will crash take?

Hans T., grade 8

Mystery of the Tolling Bell by Carolyne Keene

This book is about Nancy Drew and her friends, Bess and George, who try to solve a mystery about White Cap Bay. When water rushes in a cave, a ghost tolls a warning bell for people to get out. Nancy finds out that a group of people are dressed as ghosts and are tolling the bell. They have also been stealing stuff from people. Read the Mystery of the Tolling Bell to discover the secret. Recommended for all ages.

Xiaoyan Z., grade 6

Blood on the River by Elisas Carbone

This book is about an orphan who goes to Virginia to search for the lost colony of James Town. On his journey, he faces a lot of hardships like friendship, losing people that he looked up to, and making big decisions. I recommend this book to 5th grade and up because of some violence.

Jessica L., grade 6

The Thirteenth Child by Patricia C. Wrede

This book is about a thirteenth-born girl ,Eff, and her twin brother, Lan, who is double-seventh son. It tells the story of their life in the west during settlement times, when they were taught magic. This book has vivid details and a great storyline, but lacks a bit in characterization. I would recommend it to fantasy lovers.

Alex K., grade 8

Anne of Green GAbles by L.M. Montgomery

I loved this book! Its detailed description really made it stand out from all the other books. The language was very intelligent, even though Anne purposely had bad grammar. This book was very interesting. The events in this book were very descriptive, especially the one about Diana drinking the wrong juice!

Dina S., grade 6

Wednesday, December 01, 2010

The Dragon's Eye by Dugald A. Steer

This book is about Daniel and Beatrice Cook who go to a very special summer school run by Dr. Ernest Drake. He shows and teaches them about dragons. The children soon become dragonologists. Then, the evil Ignatius Crook wants to steal the Dragon's Eye jewel, which reflects the true Dragon Master. The children and Dr. Drake succeed with many adventures. I recommend this book to people who like dragons, mystery, and excitement.

Jaehyung C., grade 6

Stuck on Earth by David Klass

Stuck on Earth is about an alien named Ketchvar who takes over the body of Tom Filber to decide if humans should live or die. Tom Filber is in middle school and gets bullied a lot. He lives in a family with a mean mom and sister and a sad dad. He's thinking of killing all human beings until he meets a girl named Michelle. Will he let humans live???

Matthew Scholtz, grade 6

The Floating Island by Elizabeth Hadon

Ven Polypheme comes from a family of Nain, the last of 13 children to a famous family of shipwrights. Though most Nain dwell underground and are afraid of the sea, it is Ven's dream to sail upon it and look for adventure. He finally gets his chance when it's turn to do the inspection of the newest ship on his 50th birthday. After being rescued from a piece of driftwood at sea, Ven finds he has the ability to summon the Floating Island, a power so valuable some would kill to have it. Can Ven thwart his enemies' plans while he solves the mystery of the haunted Crossroads Inn?

Lexie S., grade 8

The Contender by Robert Lipsyte

Alfred Brooks is a young man living in the suburbs of Manhattan. But he is in a bad state. His best friend was arrested and is addicted to drugs. Alfred's a high-school dropout. So to take his mind off of things, he starts to box at the local boxing gym. He wants to be a champion, but he's got to be a contender first. I recommend this book to people who like determination.

Aaron O., grade 7

Notes from the Dog by Gary Paulsen

The main idea of this book is to tell that having company is sometimes not bad. A girl named Johanna gives notes to her neighbor's dog to deliver to her neighbor, Finn, whenever he is depressed or sad. Finn also raised more than $10,000 with his friend Mathew to help Johanna who has cancer. I recommend this book to those who have cancer. Both adults and kids may show interest in this book.

Jason K., grade 6

The Hoboken Chicken Emergency by Daniel Pinkwater

This book is about a boy who goes out on Thanksgiving to buy a turkey, but instead he goes to a house and a guy gives him a 260-pound chicken that's alive! But he starts befriending it. I liked it because it was a very touching tale. I would recommend it to all ages.

Nick S., grade 7

Deep and Dark and Dangerous by Mary Downing Hahn

It is a ghost story about a 13-year-old girl who spends asummer at a lake side cabin. There is a picture of a girl who was a mystery. I think it is a good book. I recommend it to 5th, 6th, and 7th graders.

Molly F., grade 6

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

The Misadventures of Maude March by Audrey Couloumbus

Sallie March is an 11-year-old orphan who lives with her aunt Ruthie. That is, until her aunt is shot and killed by the famous Joe Harden, a book character. This sets off a chain of events that leaves Sallie's sister, Maude , a wanted criminal! I suggest this thrilling wild west story to kids ages 10 and up.

Katie L., grade 6

The Last Holiday Concert by Andrew Clements

When budget cuts are low, Hart Evens decides to play a trick on his music teacher. His music teacher gets really upset and tells the children that the concert was on their own. Hart Evens then takes charge and pulls the whole thing together and comes with a great concert. When Hart finds out that his music teacher is fired, he gets upset and mad. But it is too late.

Clara W., grade 6

As If Being 12 3/4 Isn't Bad Enough, My Mother Is Running For President! by Donna Gephart

Vanessa Rothrock has a hard life. She's dealing with her spelling bees, school, and most importantly, her mom running for president. Now, her mom has busy schedules and Vanessa is worried about her safety. I love the author's humor in this story. I Recommend this book to middle school girls.

Kayla T., grade 6

The Time Warp Trio: Me oh Maya by Jon Scieszka

One minute, Joe, Sam, and Fred are shooting hoops in Brooklyn. The next, they are playing ball for their lives. In this next exciting chapter of the Time Warp Trio, the book brings them back to ancient Chichen Itza, Mexico, and they are about to be the next blood sacrifice. They are rescued and have to make their way out of this one. I recommend this book to 4th through 6th graders.

Jacob M., grade 6

The Amulet of Samarkand by Jonathan Stroud

The Amulet of Samarkand is about a young 11-year-old magician whose knowledge of magic is far beyond his years. With his knowledge, he summons a magical creature, a djinni, and tells him to steal an amulet from a powerful magician named Simon Lovelace. When Lovelace finds out, though, Nathaniel is in big trouble. Between magic and fires, Nathaniel will take you through the magic of The Amulet of Samarkand.

Yee-Sum, grade 6

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Love Me Tender by Audrey Coulumbis

Love Me Tender is about a 13-year-old girl who is going through a hard time in her life. Her dad, a past Elvis impersonator, runs off the enter a contest and she is left with her movie addicted mom and little sister. They have many twists and turns and eventually go on the road to visit her grandmother. I would say its good for anyone ages 10-12.

Isabel B., grade 6

A Wind in the Door by Madeleine L'Engle

A Door in the Wind is the second adventure about the Murry family. Meg, Calvin and Proginoskes are trying to save Charles Wallace. Charles falls ill with a deadly disease that cannot be cured with medicine. Meg, Calvin, and Proginoskes travel through strange planets and places to try to save Charles. This book was alright. I would recommend it to anybody who likes suspense and adventure.

Katherine C., grade 6

If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period by Gennifer Choldenko

Kirsten McKenna and Walker Jones are two different kids with two completely different lives. Kirsten's world is crumbling with only her little sister on her side. Walker is the only black kid in the seventh grade at his new private school. The two barely know each other, until the find out about a shocking family secret. this is an exciting story with humor and skill. Enjoyable!

Tei P., grade 6

The Secret School by Avi

The Secret School is about a girl named Ida Bidson. She wants to become a teacher and has to attend high school, but loses the chance when her school closes down. To go on, she organizes a secret school with her as the teacher. Avi has done a great job with the characters, but the plot is a tad bit boring. I would recommend this to readers who like happy endings.

Brandon K., grade 8

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares

The "Septembers" have never ever EVER been apart from each other since the 16 summers they've lived. Only Carmen and Bridget were actually excited for the adventure that was about to unfold. Tibby finds a pair of jeans in Carmen's closet and tries them on. The other girls do so too. Magically, the pants fit each and everyone of them. It was decided the pants were going to be the girl's "journal" for that summer and the summers ahead.

Salamander Spell by E.D. Baker

This fairy tale is about Princess Grassina and her sister Chartreuse. Chartreuse is the eldest and is expected to have inherited magic from her parents. Her younger sister Grassina is more than tired of waiting. Little does she know, a few surprises await, her including magic and a little romance.

Julianne, grade 7

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

The Great Brain by John D. Fitzgerald

Every kid in Adenville, Utah knows about the Great Brain. He's the smartest kid in town, not because of his grades in school, but because he's always two steps ahead of everyone else when it comes to making a profit. However, when the Great Brain teaches peg leg Andy to do chores and play games like other kids, he is faced with a choice. He can either use his great brain to help others or he can use it to make money. The Great Brain is an entertaining and fun book that carries an important message too.

Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater

It is a fictional comedy filled with excitement. Mr. Popper's Penguins is about a nice house painter who has a wife and two kids, Bill and Janie Popper. But when Admiral Drake sends Mr. Popper a penguin, it gets difficult. And even more difficult when more penguins come. But to earn the money back, he finds a way to make the penguins perform. It's a happy happy story about family. I would recommend it for 9 and 10 year olds.

Meli N., grade 6

The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

When a tornado tears through a small town in Kansas, a small girl and her dog are transported into a colorful world of magic and mystery. In the world of Oz, Dorothy and Toto find themselves meeting new friends and encountering difficult obstacles- all for the hope of returning home. This classic fantasy is recommended for all ages- or anyone with youth in their heart. Embark with Dorothy and her friends through this enchanting and magical journey.

Jasmine C., grade 7

Lily's Crossing by Patricia Reilly Giff

Every past summer, Lily has spent at her family's summer house in Rockaway Beach. But this summer of 1944, the war will change everything. Margaret, Lily's best friend has to move away, and worse, Lily's father is going away too.

Lily is lonely and bored until Albert, a refugee from Hungary, comes. They become friends and each find that the other tells lies. But only Lily knows that she has told the most terrible of them all- one that may cost Albert his life.

This book is recommended for girls and boys ages 10 and up.

Karen Z., grade 7

The Girl Who Could Fly by Victoria Forester

Piper had a special ability. She could fly. She discovered it one day when she decided to jump off the roof. When she scares the community of her home, she is sent to a school for kids with special abilities. There, she finds a problem that only she can solve.

Julianne O., grade 7

The Puzzling World of Winston Breen By Eric Berlin

Winston loves puzzles and when he is stumped by a strange one, he finds out that there are more people with similar pieces, all looking for the same treasure. In a treasure hunt that takes them all over town, Winston and the rest of the group encounter puzzle after puzzle in a crazy search for treasure. I liked this book because it was fun and it had a lot of puzzles. I would recommend this book for 4th to 7th graders who like puzzles.

Scott K., grade 7

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

The Schwa Was Here by Neal Shusterman

The Schwa Was Here is about Calvin Schwa and his friend Ansty. Calvin isn't like any other kid, he's partially invisible. Ansty and him wanted to make some money and with the Schwa's help, they can do it. They took some dares until one dare changed their life. This was one of my favorite books I read this summer. I would recommend this book to pre-teens who love drama and a good laugh.

Katherine L., grade 6

The Number Devil by Hans Magnus Enzensberger

Robert finds math as a problem in his life. He hates his teacher for not letting him use a calculator. Eventually, the number devil shows up in his dreams. Each night, this devil reveals the true secrets of math. Does Robert still need a calculator? Readers of all ages will enjoy this fantasy.

Matthew C., grade 7

Night Tourist by Katherine Marsh

The Night Tourist is an exciting book about a teenage boy named Jack who encounters a near fatal accident. When his dad sends him to New York to see a weird doctor, he meets a girl named Euri. He hadn't been there for eight years since his mother had died. Euri offers Jack a tour of Central Station, however, Jack discovers is the underworld of New York City, where his mom should be if she hasn't moved on yet. Will Jack get to see his mother again? Recommended for 6th grade and up.

Emily S., grade 7

Porcupine by Meg Tilly

After her father died, 12-year-old Jacqueline (or Jack) Cooper could only watch as her mother crumbles under so much depression. Then suddenly she leaves Jack and her younger siblings, Simon and Tessa, across the country in their great-grandmother's run-down farm. Jack puts herself in the position of responsibility to care for the family and learns the true meaning of being together. A story with depth and great characters, this book is recommended to kids 10-14.

Te P., grade 6

Akiko: The Training Master by Mark Crilley

Akiko and her extra-terrestrial friends are off on yet another adventure! This time, they are going to a special training camp to become official space patrollers. However, Akiko has a very important question. Is her trainer purposely trying to flunk her? But the biggest one of all is, can they survive this?

Sara N., grade 7

Monday, November 08, 2010

The Sisters Grimm: The Fairy-Tale Detectives by Michael Buckley

Life hasn't been great for Sabrina and Daphne Grimm. After their parents disappeared, they've been sent to foster homes of every kind, all of them odd and foreboding. However, none was as odd as their grandmother Relda's. The sisters Grimm thought she was dead! I would suggest this book to people in middle school and also those who like fantasy.

Helena R., grade 7

Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry

This book is about a young orphan named Peter and his mysterious new friend Molly and their adventure across the seas to Neverland. The ship stores a mysterious treasure that Molly seems to know of. As Peter tries to hunt down the treasure, so is the notorious Pirate Black Stache! A fast paced adventure story great for 4th through 7th graders.

Stolen Children by Peg Kehret

This book is about a girl Amy, who gets kidnapped along with Kendra, the girl she is babysitting. Amy has to care for the three-year-old Kendra, as well as come up with an escape plan. After many of her attempts fail, she is forced to do something that puts her life, as well as Kendra's, on the line.

Haley P., grade 6

Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman

Shawn McDaniel, a14-year-old boy, was physically and mentally disabled from birth. The problem is he thinks his dad wants to kill him not out of hate, but out of live. This story tells the reader about Shawn's live. It teaches readers about how sad a person's life could be. I recommend this book to preteens and higher due to some language in the book.

Alex N., grade 7

Saturday, November 06, 2010

Sisters of the Sword by Maya Snow

Kimi, the daughter of the Jito, needs to take revenge on the one who killed her father. She and her sister train to be samurai and try to find their mother and brother, who have mysteriously disappeared. A head-strong boy tries to get in Kimi's way but is helped by many friends she makes. What will happen next? Read this book to find out!

Brianne L., grade 8

Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life by Wendy Mass

This book is about a 12-year-old boy named Jeremy who receives a box from his deceased father and is supposed to open it before his 13th birthday. However, he has to find four keys and with this adventure, he has to figure out what the meaning of life is. This book has foreshadow so pay attention!

This book is recommended to preteens. :)

Janna S., grade 8

The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor

Alyss of Wonderland had to escape because of her deranged Aunt Redd and went through the Pool of Tears and ended up along in Victorian England. The royal bodyguard, Hatter Maddigan, is out trying to find Alyss to bring her back to Wonderland to claim the throne for good. This book is very adventurous and suspenseful. The characters are interesting.

Milo M., grade 6

Taking Sides by Gary Soto

Lincoln Mendoza moved from his bad neighborhood where he would get into fights to a better neighborhood. In his new school, his basketball team has to face his former team with all his old friends, including his best friend. Lincoln also meets a girl at his new school. He doesn't want to beat his old team badly but also doesn't want to disappoint his new team. He moved because a burglar broke into their house and stole their things. This book is good at describing Lincoln's thoughts and feelings. I would recommend this to people who enjoy basketball.

Brian F., grade 8

Friendship According to Humphrey by Betty G. Birney

Humphrey has to make friends with a frog named Og. Humphrey thinks Og is very rude because he won't talk to him. This book is really funny and you learn about friendship. This book is great for kids all ages.

Kyle K., grade 6

Finally by Wendy Mass

"Finally" is about a girl named Rory Swenson. When she was young and she wanted something, her parents would always tell her to wait until she's twelve years old. When the day of her 12th birthday arrives, many funny and unexpected things start to happen. I would recommend this book to 5th to 7th graders who love suprises.

Jessica T., grade 7

The Time Travelers (Book 1 in Gideon Trilogy) by Linda Buckley-Archer

Peter Schock's twelfth birthday was suppose to be a perfect day with his dad. Instead, his dad gets an important call from work, Peter goes to a farm, then gets transported from the 21st century to 1763 with Kate Dyer from the farm. If you like historical stories, you can find out what happens to Peter and Kate!

Katie L., grade 6

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Clary Fray is a teenage girl who goes to Pandemonium Club, like always. But she hardly expects to witness a murder. But you can’t report a murder when nobody can see it but you, and the body just shrivels up! The people who killed the boy are Shadowhunters. They fight demons.

When Clary finds her mother missing, Clary is attacked by a demon. But why would demons go after a normal mundane teenager? With that Clary gets pulled deeper into the Shadowhunter world…

Katie N., grade 6

Tuesday, November 02, 2010

Good Luck, Ivy

Ivy feels unlucky, her best friend is not across the street and the all city gymnastics and the family reunion is on the same day. She is not so good at the balancing. She thinks that going to the tournament is better than the family reunion. Then she thinks that she should go the family reunion. Find out what she ends up doing!

Clara W., grade 6

How to Survive Middle School by Donna Gephart

David Greenberg wants to be a star. He posts funny videos on Youtube. But, he also has problems. He has an ex-best friend, and a runaway mom. Will his dream come true? This book doesn't really tell you how to survive middle school that much.

I recommend this book for middle school boys and girls.

Kayla T., grade 6

A Long Way From Chicago by Richard Peck

This book is about a boy named Joey and his sister, Mary Alice. From 1929 to 1942, they go to Chicago to spend the summer with their Grandmother. Something funny and exciting happens every year, like seeing the sheriff in his underwear to scaring some boys with a dead mouse and a bottle with milk! I would recommend this book to 5th-7th graders who love adventures.

Jessica T., grade 7

Are You There God? It's Me Margaret by Judy Blume

This book is about a 12-year-old girl who just moved to New Jersey with her parents. When she got there, she met a girl named Nancy, who invited her into a secret club with her two friend's Gretchen and Janie. They were all learning about getting older and changing. Although she misses her grandma so much, she's still having fun. This book is a sweet fiction book about changes in life. I would recommend this book to a girl who is going into middle school and who is 11 or 12.

Meli N., grade 6

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Petey by Ben Mikaelson

Petey is the story of a boy born with cerebral palsy during the Great Depression. His parents struggle to care for him until sadly, they have to place him in a facility. The doctors there diagnose him as an idiot and place him in his bed. Although his mind is perfect he is trapped inside a body which does not work for him. Over the years, Petey makes friendships and his life changes in drastic ways. To learn about this story of friendship, love, and fun, read Petey by Ben Mikaelson.

Alison F., grade 6

Snakehead (Alex Rider Adventures series) by Anthony Horowitz

I highly recommend this book if you like spies and action. Every page wants to make you keep turning and turning. Snakehead is about a 14 year old boy. Alex Rider, who works for MIG, crash lands a spaceship in Australia. There he meets ASIS, Australia's Spy Service. He is sent on a mission with his godfather, Ash, to stop a crime organization called Snakehead.

Max E., grade 6

One False Note (Book 2 in 39 Clues Series) by Gordon Korman

Amy and Dan are in the lead in the hunt for the 39 clues. The second clue brings them to Vienna, looking for an answer to solve the code of one of Mozart's pieces of music. This book is adventurous and has lots of suspense. I would recommend it to anyone who likes mysteries.

Davis G., grade 8

Dear Dumb Diary: Can Adults Become Human? by Jim Benton

Jamie's Aunt comes to visit and ends up working at her school. In Jamie's class, they are learning about animals and humans. Then the question is popped: Can adults become human? I enjoyed the way that Jamie talks about people and the author really makes you feel like you are seeing what Jamie sees. This book is good for 3rd through 7th graders.

Diana S., grade 8

Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan

Esperanza was always a happy and rich Mexican girl who never worked a day in her life. Her life was always great, but when her father dies and her uncles take over, she has to travel with her mother and friends to California so they won't have to live with her uncles. Esperanza must adjust to working every day, and even though she hates working, she learns to accept her new life.

Sarah G., grade 6

The Soldiers of Halla by D.J. MacHale

In the final book of the Pendragon series, Bobby Pendragon and the Travelers finally learn the secrets of who they are and where they came from. Traveling back to their own territory, they find that Ravinia has taken control of all ten territories. Knowing the exiles are their only hope, the travelers must find the exiles so they can end the war for Halla and beat the evil Saint Dane.

Lexie S., grade 7

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

The Awakening (Quantum Prophecy series) by Michael Carroll

I recommend the Awakening for 9 to 12 year old kids. This book is about two best friends who find out that they are the next generation of superhuman. They have to stop the villains from draining all of the superhumans' powers.

May E., grade 6

Operation Red Jericho by Joshua Mowll

This book talks about two children who's parents are lost in Sinkiang. Their new guardian is their uncle since all their other guardians sent them away. They now live on a ship and they make new friends. But they misbehaved again and were sent back to San Francisco with their aunt. They stowed away on a ship and came to a war lord's island. Then a battle happened there. Read it to find more. The sequel to this book is Operation Typhoon Shore. I recommend this book to all who love adventure. The ages I recommend are 9 and up.

Brian F., grade 7

Eleven by Lauren Myracle

Change. Most grown-ups say change is a good thing, but not if you are an eleven year old named Winnie. Change could mean losing her best friend to another girl. All change isn't bad though, in the book, Winnie finds a new friend, Dinah. The ups and downs in this book make it one hilarious adventure. I like how it is in an eleven-year old girl's perspective and has events that really happen in real life. I recommend this book to eleven year old girls who love reading.

Maaike W., grade 6

Urchin of the Riding Stars by M.I. McAllister

Urchin is an orphan. He was a squirrel who washed up on the beach as a baby on the night of the riding stars. He grows up on the Isle of Mistmantle and became page to Captain Crispin. But when the king and queen's baby is murdered and Crispin is blamed and banished, Urchin knows he must do something. The evil Lord Husk and Lady Aspen are behind the murder and Urchin knows he must do something. The evil Lord Husk and Lady Aspen are behind the murder and Urchin knows he must stop them from taking power to save the Isle of Mistmantle.

Lexie S., grade 7

I'd Tell You I Love You, but Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter

The main idea of this book is about a girl named Cameron who goes to a top spy academy for girls. But when she goes on a mission, she falls in love with an ordinary boy who thinks she's an ordinary girl. Cameron struggles to manage being an ordinary girl and a super spy girl. This book always makes you feel like you want to know more. I would recommend this book to 7th to 9th graders.

Katie A., grade 7

The Twilight Prisoner by Katherine Marsh

Jack Perdu is back on another adventure. He sees Euri again and this time, he foolishly takes his crush, Cora to the underworld. People all think that he is the "Living Avenger". Can he make it out of the underworld? Or will he stay there forever? Read this thrilling sequel to The Night Tourist to find out.

Karen H., grade 7

The Last Apprentice The Spook's Tale and OTher Horrors by Joseph Delaney

If you read the other books in The Last Apprentice series, this is a great book to complete your experience. It begins with the spook's tale of how he came to become a spook apprentice. Other stories include a story told by Alice about how she escaped the Mouldheel prison. The last story, my favorite, was told by Grimalkin, the witch assassin. It explained how she became the Malkin clan assassin. It was filled with action and excitement. Overall, it was an interesting book that I would recommend to anyone who has read the Last Apprentice series.

Alision F., grade 8

The Report Card by Andrew Clements

Nora is a fifth-grade genius who plays the role of an average student. In her struggle not to be too different from everyone else, she gives herself bad grades to show that high test scores and grades don't equal intelligence. Even a nerd like me understands Nora's point in this story. The story is told in kid language and is fun for kid slackers to a thinking topic for adult philosophers.

All ages 7 and up can read The Report Card on their own.

Glenda C., grade 7

Wings by Aprilynne Pike

This book is about a girl who lives a normal life, just like me and you. One day she finds out that she may not be human, which changes her life, forever. I recommend this book to middle school students. The girl in the book is older than 10, which is why I think this book is directed to older kids.

David O., grade 7

Monday, May 10, 2010

Ever by Gail Carson Levine

Olus, who looks like a human, is an Akkan God of the winds. He watches over Kezi, who is a normal human, but is in danger. Her father made a vow to their God, and Kezi sacrificed herself for her beloved aunt. How will Olus protect Kezi? Will her father disobey their God? Read Ever to find out.

Brianna L., grade 7

The Field Guide (Spiderwick Chronicles) by Tony DiTerlizzi

This book is mainly about a family that just moved into a new house and they find lots of weird creatures. When you start reading this book, you do not want to stop. So I recommend that when you finish this book, you should read the whole series.

Gabby M., grade 6

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

The Doll People by Ann M. Martin

All Annabell Doll wants is adventure and excitement because for over a hundred years, she just stayed in the dollhouse and had a boring life. But her parents wouldn't let her becasue it would be really dangerous and she had no reason to leave the house. Then she met the fun crafts and everything changed.

Sarah G., grade 6

The Giver by Lois Lowry

This book is about a boy named Jonas in a utopia community when he gets chosen as the Receiver and receives memories from the Giver, he has some doubts about his perfect community. This book is good for 6th through 8th graders. It has elaborate vocabulary but is hard to understand for younger readers.

Alex K., grade 7

Bone by Jeff Smith

Fone Bone is a little creature with a big nose and a big heart. After being banished from Boneville, he and his two cousins get lost and separated in the desert. Fone Bone makes his way to the valley where he meets Ted the bug, a girl named Thorn who he falls in love with, Thorn's grandma, who everyone calls Grandma Ben, and his cousins. They are about to return to Boneville when they're attacked by rat creatures. The Bone cousins must help Grandma Ben, who's really the queen and Thorn. The princess wins the war against the Lord of Locusts to restore peace to the valley.

Lexie S., grade 7

Tangerine by Edward Bloore

Paul Fishers and his sfamily just moved into Tangerine, Florida. His brother Erik Fisher plays high school football while Paul's game is soccer. He gets new friends and finds new things. Paul always wondered about his eye injury. With his new friends, he unlocks secrets. Secrets of his past and his brothers. This book is mysterious and suspensful. If you like books that are mysteriou, read it! This is for 6th to 8th grade kids.

Sophia L., grade 8

Crank by Ellen Hopkins

Kristina is a nice girl in high school. She went to visit her dad over the summer and meets the monster that changed her life. I think ages 13 and up can read this book.

Mileena M., grade 8

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

This book is about a boy named Nobody Owens who lives in a graveyard. When he was a baby, he accidentally ran away to the graveyard, which saved his life. At the graveyard, he was protected by the spirit occupants. The suspense magnetizes you to the book so you don't stop until the book is done. Nobody's eagerness to meet people, gives a wonderful, adventurous feeling the the book. Nobody's heritage glues a mysterious touch to the book. I would recommend this book to advanced readers and those who love a slight mystery.

Projit B., grade 6

Loser by Jerry Spinelli

Loser is the story about a boy named Daniel Zinkoff. He is not very good at anything and finds great pleasure in simple things. Some of the things he enjoys doing include pretending to deliver the mail with his father and watching the waiting man.

People who read this story will be amazed at Zinkoff's unrelenting joy, energy, and how hard he tries at everything he does. Be careful though, the book has a slow start that may lose your attention, but after you get going it is an amazing book.

Alison F., grade 6

Public Enemy Number Two by Anthony Horowitz

Nick Diamond is an ordinary kid but is framed for a jewel theft. Only shape and Boyle know he's innocent but they're dead. This book is perfect for those who are adventurous and love to laugh. This book might appeal to ages of 10 or up. 5 stars!

Fiona B., grade 6

Call of the Wild by Jack London

Buck was a very happy dog when he was stolen from his master and made into a sled dog. After learning important rules for survival among the dogs, Buck mastered the pack's leader and became leader himself. After the master he loved was killed by Indians, Buck answers the call of the wild and joins a wolf pack. This book was amazing and overall just wonderful. Ages 12-18.

Adam S., grade 7

Wednesday, April 07, 2010

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

The Secret Garden is a fantastic book. Mary, the main character, moves into the house of her rich uncle and finds the key to his secret garden. Then, she finds friends around the house. After that, she finds her sickly cousin. He only thinks of dying, but Mary finds a way to stop it. I think young girls age 8 to 10 should read the book.

Naomi G., grade 6

Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt

I really enjoyed this book. IT gave a funny twist to the hard times of the Vietnamese War. If I was living in that time, I would have related to the characters. I would recommend this book to people who like realistic fiction which is funny. I would recommend it to ages 10-12.

Deepti, grade 6

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle

A Wrinkle in Time talks about three kids and three magical creatures who go on an exciting adventure to save two of the kids' dad. They go on an adventure that is dangerous and cool. The kids rescue the dad that has been captured on a place called Camazotz. On Camazotz, people controlled by the IT who is a brain. I like the book becasue of the creativeness and characters. I also don't like the book becasue it doesn't have enough action. I recommend this book for readers ages 11 and up.

Matthew N., grade 6

Snitch by Allison Van Diepen

A girl named Julia DiVino goes to South Bay High School and at that school there are a lot of gangs. She does want to get involved, but her life changed after she met Eric Valiente.

This book should be for kids 13 and up.

Mileen M., grade 8

Kaya's Escape: A Survival Story by Janet Shaw

Kaya is an Indian girl and was taken captive by her enemies, the raiders. She became a slave and became friends with another. Then they escape on a long journey back home. The story was too predictable but it had a lot of details. I think young girls age 8 and up should read this book.

Naomi G., grade 6

Monday, April 05, 2010

In the Hand of the Goddess by Tamora Pierce

The book is the sequel to "Alanna: the first Adventure" in the Song of the Lioness quartet. In this book, Alanna becomes squire to the prince of Tortall. When the evil sorcerer Duke Rodger threatens the prince's life, Alanna must use all her strength, skill, and magic to protect her Prince. Alanna is truthful and fair because, instead of saying what she thought without any proof, she first finds proof.

I recommend this book to girls age 10 to 13 who enjoy reading books that have an adventurous heroine as the main character.

Maaike W., grade 6

Fairy Realm: The Water Sprites by Emily Rodda

The water sprites are upset since they think the Lirralle people stole their precious moonstone. I think people should read this book because its fun.

Emily, grade 6

The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod: Ninth Grade Slays by Heather Brewer

The book is about a ninth grader vampire who finds out that his best friend's cousin, who is staying there for about nine months, is a vampire slayer. Later, he also finds out that there are two other vampires who are after him as well!

I would recommend this book to middle school students who like action, blood, and vampires.

Davis G., grade 8

Gilda Joyce: The Ladies of the Lake by Jennifer Allison

Gilda is a psychic that finds a school supposedly haunted by a girl that died in the lake 3 years ago. This is a great mystery that is an amazing page turner. You will never suspect the ending! Anyone could read this and be intrigued by the detailed story. This book is great for all ages! From 8 to 108! Will Gilda find out what happened?

Jenna, grade 6

Ghost Horses by Gloria Skurzynskiand

When Ethan and Summer are put in the London's foster care, everything goes wrong. After Ethan teches Jack and Ashley the Ghost Dance, an avalanche occurs and then a flood. Is this a connection with the rumors of Ghost Horses? Read this adventurous book to find out!

Fiona B., grade 6

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

The Tale of Desperaux by Kate DiCamillo

This book is exciting and adventurous. It's the story of a a mouse who falls in love with a princess and saves her from a rat. It still has that same fairy tale ending. Anyone who loves books about adventure would love this. I think any age would enjoy a story like this.

Bianca B., grade 6

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo

When a China rabbit is lost, he goes on a journey and meets many people along the way. Edward learns that when you have something, don't let it go by because you might not get it again. This is a great adventure and friendship story sure to be liked by ages 7 and up.

Bianca B., grade 6

My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George

This story is about a boy named Sam who wants to live in the woods. So he ran away from home and met a lot of new people. They helped him find the mountains. The positive part of the book is that it shows you how to live in the wild. I would recommend this book for 5th and 6th graders because this book is challenging for for ages 10-12.

Jocelyn J., grade 6

The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare

Matt and his father built a log cabin in Maine's wilderness. His father leaves to get the rest of the family so Matt needs to hunt, fish, and gather berries by himself. One day, he sees a bee comb and wants honey. Foolishly he climbs up a tree and gets attacked by the bees and was saved by Indians. One of them is Attean, a boy who becomes Matt's good friend. Attean wants Matt to travel North with the tribe but Matt didn't choose to go. His father comes with the family later. I think 9th graders should read this book.

James S., grade 6

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Flavor of the Week by Tucker Shaw

This is a little love story, simple and sweet. It also includes amazing recipes that I absolutely adore! Might not be fitted for boys. Recommended for middle school students.

Evelyn F., grade 9

Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac by Gabrielle Zevin

A girl loses four years of her memory and wants to try to understand her life again. It's a fabulous book that is written very well. Recommended for middle school students.

Evelyn F., grade 9

Snow Falling in Spring by Moying Li

This story is about the author's life as a young girl to a young woman. Moying Li lived in China during the Cultural Revolution. I recommend this book to girls ages 9 through 15. This book is a historical nonfiction story.

Karen Z., grade 6

Blister by Susan Sherove

Alyssa Reed's life is crazy! Her parents won't talk anymore. Her dad has decided to move the family to a new town and live in a different apartment. I would recommend this to people who like to stay hooked to a book. This book is good for the 11-13 age range.

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

This book is about Tally who is going to become "pretty". Her friend runs away and she must bring her back to become "pretty". The theme of this book is that what seems good in the beginning can actually be bad. The book is very long and has a complex part but is still understandable. In the beginning, it was a little dull, however, the middle and the conclusion were good. I would recommend this book for 9th graders becasue they can fully understand this complex book.

Henrik W., grade 9

Runner by Carl Deuker

This book is about a teenage boy who has an alcoholic, but not abusive father. He takes a job delivering parcels. Later, he finds out that these packages contain drugs and plastic explosives. He calls the police and the terrorists are captured at the cost of his father's life. The book keeps the reader in suspense all the way through, but the plot is extremely simple. I would recommend Runner to 8th graders because they can understand the main character's problems and worries.

Henrik W., grade 9

Saturday, February 13, 2010

A Step from Heaven by An Na

The theme of this book is about overcoming problems in life. The book portrayed the life of a Korean immigrant very realistically, but the book did't focus on the main character's speical life as much as it could have. It also shows that if you work hard, you c an achieve anything. I would recommend this book for 9th graders because they can understand and fully appreciate this book.

Henrik W., grade 9

Silver is for Secrets by Laurie Faria Stolarz

Stacey is having nightmares again. Unlike last time, they are about an unknown girl. Stacey dreams that this girl is going to die, but is it going to happen? Find out in this thrilling adventurous book. I recommend this book to older kids who like scary stories.

Symora S., grade 6