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Jay T. grade 10
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«Oldest ‹Older 1 – 200 of 329 Newer› Newest»The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
This book was so exciting I had to finish reading it in one sitting!
It takes place in the future and every year two children 12 or older are chosen to participate in a televised survival game in which only one person survives.
I highly recommend this book for everyone.
Ms. Tezuka
Mecca S. 9th
Arter-Hour Girls
This is a book about two friends named Tosha, and Lisa who are living in the streets of Detroit. And it tells of how they live, and get by in this book by Geavonnie Frazier
Mecca S. 9th
After-Hours Girls
Is abook about two friends named Tosha, And Lisa who live in the streets of Detroit. This book tells about how the two bestfriends get by and how they live.
Keeping the Moon by Sarah Dessen
Keeping the Moon is a sweet book about a girl named Colie. Colie used to be fat, and her mother used to be fat. But after enduring years of mistreatment and bullying, both lost numerous pounds, and Colie’s mother because Kiki Sparks, “fitness guru and personal trainer of the masses.” Colie may have become a new person physically, but she was still insecure and weak.
But then Kiki Sparks has to go to Europe, and Colie is left with her odd Aunt Mira in Colby. She expects it to be the worst summer of her life, but her weird aunt, an artistic hippy, and the two girls that live next door prove her wrong.
Jeanie N., Grade 10
Loyola Chin and the San Peligran Order by Gene Yang
This graphic novel was short, but really good. Loyola discovers that what she eats before she sleeps leads her to different dream-worlds. After eating cornbread, she meets (and falls in love with) Saint Danger, who shows her a vision of the future and his plans to save mankind. It's a very creative tale.
Jeanie N., Grade 10
The Eternal Smile by Gene Luen Yang and Derek Kirk Kim
I really enjoyed this amazing graphic novel. Yang and Kim used their talent to create three completely different stories in this book, about three completely different characters. There's Duncan, fighting for the throne of a kingdom. There's Gran'pa Greenbax, a frog on a quest to get enough money to fill a pool that would be deep enough so he wouldn't hit his head on the bottom when he dives in. And Janet, an "insignificant" worker at Commtech, who gets an email from a Nigerian prince, asking for money, which she happily gives. In all three stories, there are surprise endings. Nothing's what it seems. This book was easy and fun to read; I finished it right after I got it from the library. I highly recommend it.
Jeanie N., Grade 10
The Botox Diaries by Janice Kaplan and Lynn Schnurnberger
This book was well written and funny. I liked it, and the way it talked about women getting old and having it affect them was so true. Jess and her best friend Lucy were in their forties, both with children, but sometimes for both of them, men didnt work out. Lucy was having an affair, and Jess divorced her French bliss. She then adopted Jen, and both women loved their children. They couldn't deny that. In the end, Lucy fixes things with her beloved husband, and Jess ends up with Josh, a guy whom she didnt hit it off as they first met a couple of times. This book reminds me that when you're old, you dont need Botox, you just have to enjoy the things you do have.
Match Me If You Can by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
I LOVEDD this book!!!! I wasn't interested in it the first time I saw it, so I didnt get too carried away. The book is about so- called screw up Annabelle, at least that's what her family calls her when she isnt out there making six figures like her brothers. Her nana recently passed away, and Annabelle's mother recieved everything and agreed to lettin Annabelle occupy the house and take the car. She even took over her Nana's matchmaking company. Annabelle updated it a little and now held the name, "Perfect For You." her business wasnt very high on the charts, so she needed to land a major client. And did she ever, Heath Champion, Chicago's top sports agent. He wanted a wife, the perfect wife, to grow old with and have kids. the author does a wonderful job plotting the story and incorporating characters with different personalities. This is the book everyone should read, to know that anybody can have a happy ending.
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
This book was so funny! It's about a boy called Junior who lives on a Spokane Indian reservation. He's different- he was born with many medical problems, so he's always picked on. After having a talk with his teacher, Mr. P., after hitting him in the face with a textbook, he decides that he wants a better education and future, so he makes up his mind to go to an all-white school outside of the reservation. He faces many obstacles- the peopl e on the reservation view him as a traitor, and the people at the all-white school view him as an outcast, a freak. This book was written in a the voice of a 14-year-old, which made it easier to relate to and understand. Plus, there were a lot of hilarious pictures and cartoons drawn by Junior. I laughed out loud a lot while reading this book. I especially loved "The Unofficial and Unwritten Spokane Indian Rules of Fisticuffs." I definitely recommend it.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Secret Love by Bart Schneider
I think this book was fantastic, and a great book to read. It told of Jake, a forty-ish lawyer and his journey of finding true love again. His wife, Inez had committed suicide, and the family was devastated. he had two kids and a grumpy father to take care of. He gets involved in media protests, and thats when he and Nisa meets. Jake is a Jewish white man, but Nisa isnt, and this book takes place in the 1960s, so there would be controversy going on. I think it was a very exciting book, with some dull moments, but overall, the author did a great job including real life events and humor into this book. I think young adults and adults should read this book.
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
This was a beautiful book, about race and discrimination. It takes place in South Carolina in 1964. Lily (a white girl) lives with her father, whom she calls T. Ray, because he doesn't act like a father. He's abusive and cruel; he doesn't show an ounce of love for her. Lily's mother died years ago, when Lily was about four, and Lily wanted nothing more than to know more about her mother and find out why she had left Lily. After her mother died, Rosaleen, their black housekeeper, became Lily's "stand-in mother."
One day, a series of events starting when Rosaleen offends three racists when she goes to register to vote and Lily's mother's possessions, lead these two to run away to Tiburon, South Carolina, where they find three black, bee-keeping sisters that hold information about Lily's mom.
I enjoyed reading this book; it was beautifully written, and it was hard to put it down. However, I had to roll my eyes a few times at Sue Monk Kidd's attempt to be "deep."
Overall, a really good book.
Jeanie N., Grade 10.
The book I read was American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang. I personally enjoyed this book a lot. The fact that it was a graphic novel enhanced the plot and the aspect of characterization very much. What’s unique about it is that it seems to have different stories that fuse together at the climax of the book. Not only this, but the stories alternated with one another, possibly so readers can get a taste of all of the different plots and characters simultaneously. I thought it was a bit confusing at the beginning because I didn’t quite get the alternating aspect of the book yet, but it became a lot easier and enjoyable after I did. I recognized some themes of the novel that I already knew, such as loyalty and the consequences that lack of loyalty can bring, so therefore I didn’t really learn anything new.
Good As Lily by Derek Kirk Kim and Jesse Hamm
This was an excellent graphic novel. Not only were the graphics pretty cool, but the plot was amazing as well. Grace Kwon turns 18, and when she goes back to the park to find something she dropped, she runs into 3 people- her 6-year-old self, her 29-year-old self, and her 70-year-old self. At first, they are annoying burdens, but the longer they stay, the more she learns about her future and herself. I loved it.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Same Difference and Other Short Stories by Derek Kirk Kim
This book has many short stories- about thirteen in total- but the main one, "Same Difference" is about two friends named Simon and Nancy. Simon runs into a blind former classmate and is overwhelmed with guilt about something that happened when they were in highschool together. Nancy receives someone else's love letters, reads, and responds to them, pretending to the be the correct recipient. "Same Difference" was good; I didn't really like many of the other short stories though.
Jeanie N., Grade 10
Play It Again, SAHM by Meredith Efken
This book is just a series of emails. SAHM I Am is an e-mail loop for Stay-At-Home-Moms. Here, they talk about their problems and issues- mainly parenting issues. The members of SAHM I Am have grown close over the years and are ready to finally meet each other in person. I did not enjoy this book very much. The characters weren't unique and interesting to me, and I felt there was no real plot.
Jeanie N., Grade 10
Random Acts of Heroic Love by Danny Scheinmann
This book is amazing and, brilliant! I really recommend this book to everyone, it gives perspective on love and losing a loved one. This book tells of two separate stories, one with Leo Deakin who loses his beloved girlfriend, Eleni. The next story is told by Moritz Daneicki who is a Hungarian soldier who is eager to find his way back to his childhood love, Lotte.
Switching from each story, they tell their troubles and their journey to put themselves right again. And in the end, they both come together and the story is entertwined. this was another fantastic book I read with another great ending.
After The Train by Gloria Whelan
After the Train is about growing up in Germany after World War Two. It centers around a 13 year old, Peter, who is helping his father and others restore a bombed-out church. While working on the church, he meets a Jewish bricklayer that helps him discover that his biological parents were Jewish victims of the Holocaust, and his current parents smuggled him out of a concentration camp. Learning that he is Jewish by birth causes Peter to reconsider his Christian ways and understand how even after 10 years after Hitler was defeated, there is still much anti-antisemitism in Germany. In one particularly memorable passage, Peter and his friends break up a meeting of antisemities by turning on the sprinkler system in the building and releasing a pig into the meeting. Overall, the book was a quick read but still thought -provoking.
Adam L. 9th
Hacking Harvard by Robin Wasserman
Hacking Harvard is a great story about a group of incredibly intelligent high schoolers, who, because of a bet, work together to get a slacker into Harvard University. By doing this, the group wants expose how flawed the college admissions system is. The group changes, stretches, and distorts the facts on the slacker's application, and helps him ace the SAT by cheating. Eventually, the slacker gets in, and goes to Harvard. The group, at his request, tells no one about the cheating and each goes to a different college, happy with their success. This book was not only funny and suspenseful, but it did show how stressful it is to go through the flawed college admissions system.
Naomi and Ely's No- Kiss List by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
Naomi and Ely are bestfriends. They lived across the hall from eachother for their whole lives. They were practically irrsepertable. Naomi and Ely are two different people. Naomi has the responsible but edgy personality. On the other side, Ely is more of the party and fashionable type of guy. Not to mention he's gay. But that doesnt matter to Naomi. She feels that they're the perfect match. Ely doesn't know it but she has feelings for him. As being more than friends. I like the fact that this book talks about friendships and the ups and downs about them.
Cross My Heart by Carly Phillips
This book was a heart-warming story that told how the characters wanted to find love. They wanted to love themselves, their friends, and their family. Lilly Dumont, now called Lacey Kinkaid, had to escape her abusive ncle who wanted her trust fund worth millions of dollars. She separates from Hunter and Ty, Ty being her childhood love. She escapes to New York City. Ten years later, she has to come back, and soon after she discovers the ugly secrets that come out. Main characters, Ty, Lilly, Hunter and Molly, Hunter's new love interest, finds what they really want, love and family. With each of their own sides to the story, they live to find out where they are in life, and where they're going.
This Is What I Did by Ann Dee Ellis
This book was good. i got it a the libary and finished it in one day.The book is about a boy named Logan and how him and his family moved becuase of somthing horriffic that happend to him and a friend in his old town, through out the book it keeps you wondering about what happened. he has a new friend at his new school and her name is Laurel and he get bullied by everyone and all the girls are told to stay far away from him......i recommed you r8ead the book and find out why.
Jazzmyn.G, 9th Grade
Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
This book is insanely long, and takes a while to read, but it's worth it. It's a classic, about Georgia during the Civil War and Reconstruction. Scarlett O'Hara, before the war, was a Southern belle from a wealthy, good family living on a prosperous plantation- she was beautiful and charming. She was spoiled; she never had to work for anything (they had slaves) and she was never denied anything. She spent her days going to parties, barbecues, and balls, surrounded by boys that adored her. But when the war hit, her way of life was changed forever.
I thought this book was excellent- the characters were all fascinating and Margaret Mitchell's writing is beautiful.
Jeanie N., Grade 10
I'm Down by Mishna Wolff
This memoir was so good, I stayed up till four in the morning to finish it! This memoir is about Mishna Wolff, a white girl, with a completely white family. But she grew up with her single father in a poor black neighborhood, and her father truly believed he was black. Mishna didn't quite fit in- she was "too white" for them. And when her mother enrolls her into a rich white school, she's "too black" to fit in with them.
This book is so witty and fun to read; I think everybody should read it.
Jeanie N., Grade 10
Nick And Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
I think this book was wonderful. It was narrated by two teens, Nik and Norah, and their dialogue is amazing and really funny. They both take turns in talking about their "first date" which lasts a whole night until the sun shines through the sky. It all begins when they both try to avoid the same person, tris, Nick's ex, and Norah's ex- friend. Along the way, they both are confused by each other's mixed signals. But a little understanding, onfidence, and even help from Tris they both find their way to each other.
I saw the movie and read the book, and I definitely think the book does a better job telling the story.
The Audacity of Hope, Barack Obama
This book was actualy recommened to me by a family friend. In this book Mr. Obama talks about his political life, campign work and his progressing life. There were some moments in this book where i felt like Obama was really connecting to the readers. He talked about before he became famous, when his youngest daughter was sick, he waited in line at the hospital like eveyone lese he was just a regular dad worrying abou the well-being of his daughter. Also in this book Obama shres a piece of his love life. He talks about how he and Michelle first met. He thought she was way out of his league at first. He took her out to ice cream and they bonded. Overall I would rocmmend this book to anyone
Abiba S. currently grade 8, ebtering grade 9 in fall
The Audacity of Hope, Barack Obama
This book was actualy recommened to me by a family friend. In this book Mr. Obama talks about his political life, campign work and his progressing life. There were some moments in this book where i felt like Obama was really connecting to the readers. He talked about before he became famous, when his youngest daughter was sick, he waited in line at the hospital like eveyone lese he was just a regular dad worrying abou the well-being of his daughter. Also in this book Obama shres a piece of his love life. He talks about how he and Michelle first met. He thought she was way out of his league at first. He took her out to ice cream and they bonded. Overall I would rocmmend this book to anyone
Abiba S. currently grade 8, ebtering grade 9 in fall
Dreams from My Father, Barack Obama
I stumbled upon this book at Soule library 1 day after school was out. The moment i started reading it, i Loved it! In this book Obama shares his story about being raised by a white mother and grandparents in Hawaii while his father lived in Kenya. Obama's dad left when he was 2, and young Obama was puzzled about who he really was, what he would become and who his fatjer really was. in this Book, you feel like you can really understand Obama's curiousity about his father. I trurly enjoyed this book
Son of the Revolution,Liang Heng and Judith Shapiro.
I actualy found this book, hidden in my parents stuff in the basement. I wasnt going to read it at first but, i didnt have anything else to read. This book was based on the life of Liang Heng. It talked about Chinese life during the twenty-four year period of 1954-1978, and Liaang 's life. He was forced to fit in amoung the status quo to obey the government and could not voice his own opion until later when he found his courage. I would reccomend this book to people who like history. -
abiba S. grade 9 in the fall
James A. 9th
Number the stars-by Lois Lowry
this is a very exciting book to read because the plot is so great and interesting.It almost gives you a sence of being in the time of the nazis. This book follows a young jew girl named annemarie as she tries to survive the terrfying halocaust.
Marked by Fire ,Joyce Carol Thomas
This book is about and african american slaved woman named Patience. Patience gives birth to a baby named of Abyssinia Jackson. The author tells the story of the first twenty years Abyssina. She talks baout her struggles, her family, and the lifestyle she had. This book was really interesting to me and it made me think about how lucky i am to not be a slave.
Abiba S 9th grade in fall
Helen Keller's Teacher ,Margaret Davidson
I have to say Helen Keller's teacher my have been one of the best books I've ever read. The emotions and dialect in this book are so intense and real.The book is about Annie Sullivan ( Helen Keller's teacher) as a young girl. This biography discusses and observes how Annie from ayoung age goes blind from a disease she contracted when she rubbed her eyes and scrathed her cornias. She goes on to school and learns to read braille because she couldn't see. She has a very tough and hard life. . She could see. She then, finished school and went to teach Helen. She could deal with the same tantrums Helen displayed because she herself acted that way out of frustration. This book taught me that diligence does pay off in the long run.I would recommend the book to anyone and everyone!! .Annie sullivan is truly amazing She overcame so many obstacles and ended up being an inspirational leader for Helen.
Paradise Lost (Private, Book 9), Kate Brian
In this book Reed gets back into Billings and is invited to go to Saint Barth’s with all her friends. She is having such a great time. Then she starts to fall for Upton, said to be the most beautiful boy to ever step foot on earth. But Upton has a reputation of being a player. Then he breaks her heart. She also finds out that she has a stalker. AGAIN. But when she returns to school nothing will be the same..
I think this is very much like the 5 the book in the series. It’s all abou having fun with friends and having a great time but then everything turns out to be a disaster and she has not such a good time. Sides split and things get tough but then she always has her friends there.
I would rate this book ***** <5> stars. As I said with almost the entire books in this series. It get suspenseful and I love how much the author described paradise in Saint Barth’s. I also liked how everything was very peaceful and just as an easy read. I really enjoyed it and would recommend this book to all of the other Kate Brian fans. ( i have read all the books in the series and i recommend them all!!!)
Abiba S 9th grade in fall
Last Christmas, Private Series, Kate Brian,
This book is all about what happened before Reed came to Billings. It has all the details that we've been waiting for. It talks about mainly Arianna and Thomas, how they met,and how arianna linked to Thomas's murder! In this book Arianna kills anyone and veryone who gets in her way of her and thomas. Little sweet Arianna Osgood isnt as nice as we all thought she was. I swear i was perplexed as i was reading this. I thought i knew all there was to kow about Ariana's past... boy was i wrong!
LOVED this book
all tennage girls should read it.
-abiba S 9th in the fall
James A. 9th
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian-by Sherman Alexie
This book is one of the most funniest books i have ever read.its just chock full of omg and lol moments.this book follow the life of a native american boy named junior that lives on the rezervation. the book goes through his day to day struggle of haveingto deal with violence and poverty but he overcomes his ordeals by sriveing to become a better person
P.S I Loathe You, Clique Series #10
I finally finished the Last Book!
This book take a 180 degree spin away from what was going on in the Clique. Massie is no longer in control, and clarie is finally speaking her mind. Dylan and Kristen and alicia finaly decide to live their own lives and stop being a massie block puupet.
Shocking guess who still stays by Massie's side????
3 stars =(
i was a bit disappointed with this book. It was to cliche and had no suspense. I already knew what happened before i even finshes chapter 4!
-Abiba S 9th grade in fall
SLAM by Nick Hornby
WOW! this book was good i think both teenage boys and girls should read this book. Its GOOD. It's about Sam, a teenage skater (as in skateboarding) who seeks advice on life from Tony Hawk’s autobiography and talks to a poster of Hawk on his wall ( bit weird i know...) Early in the story Sam meets Alicia, the two begin dating and shortly thereafter have sex and have baby.about Sam’s deals with the fact that he has become a teenage parent just like his mom, alicia's parents critisie him at first. Sam learns from this mistakes and juggles all this.
This book is a serious REALITY CHECK for young teens.
i went "whoah" when i finshed this book. it was detailed, interesting, informative and eveything else a great book is.
-Abiba Salahou 9th grade in fall
Does My Head Look Big In This?, by Randa Abdel-Fattah
Sixteen-year-old Amal makes the decision to start wearing the hijab full- time and everyone has a reaction. Her parents, her teachers encourage her andher friends get time to get used to it. Howvever people on the street have mixed feelings about it. It was easy fir Amal to make her decisino she fears that her hijab on her head will make her crush think she is less- attractive and she wont be invited to the biggest party of the year.
This book was really intersting to read and it nade me think .. being muslim myself and all about thing
James A. 9th
Call Waiting- by R.L.Stine
This is an interesting book about a girl named karen who is obsessed with keeping her boyfriend with her.To do this she starts fakeing scary calls to herself in order to seem like she being stalked but then she starts getting real calls from a real stalker. this book also has a twist ending that you would not ever belive its a must read book.
To Be a Slave,Julius Lester
This book exposes the truth about slavery. In this book, slaves share the stories of how they were under nourished, mal-treated, and discriminated against. This book covered topics about the plantations and the overall history of slavery. Slaves talk about the auction blocks, and how it felt to loose a loved one. When you read this book, you feel as though you are there, you see them crying, fraile, but you can do nothing to help. You feel like going back into time........ I'm VERY greatful this is not how it is now
-Abiba S 9th
V.S, Miguel Street
THis book is nothing like those usual caribean humor books, In Miguel Street, the characters take on more serious roles and the topics discussed have more meaning. However much humor still does exists in the dialect and overall story line. Forexample the characters have funny names i.e one character is named"hat"another is named "Bogart". I'm not exactly sure who I would reccomend this book to. Some people may find it gunny and interesting, others may not. Its up to the reader and his or her taste in books.
-Abiba S 9th
Everything Is Fine By Ann Dee Ellis
I LOVED this book. It was written in really different way. Ann Dee Ellis wrote the whole book in a series of blunt sentences, not much detail. It's about an odd girl named Mazzy. Her father is on ESPN, so she never sees him. And her mother is severely depressed about something that had happened. Throughout the whole book, the author kept you guessing about what was really behind their problems. It was excellent.
Jeanie N., Grade 10
BE MORE CHILL, By Ned Vizzini
This book is not like the traditiona; stories about a lame and/or dorky boy who seeks not only to win bobel peace prize, but to also become cool. In the more taditional versions of this plot, the boy pours over teen magazines for hours, joins online chat groups, and megs his mommy for extra money for a wardrobe change....BORING!!!! We've read too many books like this. However in this book, the author adds a twist. Jeremy Heere, hopeless nerd buy a device called a squip which guides him through a physical and mental transformation. The squip helps him do cool stuff like what to wear how to talk what to say all that stuff. And helps him get the beautiful Christine Caniglia. Alls going smoothe till the squip goes through serious mal-function.... and jeremy is forced to break free of the squip. ITS SOOOO FUNNNY
READ THIS BOOK. its good
i reccomend it to all teenage boys and girls..
-Abiba S 9th
TANTALIZE
Cynthia Leitich Smith
Loved this book!... dare i say- even more than i loved Twilight.....?!
Ok this book is about a girl named Quincie Morris. She in love with a hybrid-werewolf named Kieren. Later on in the book---At 17, Quincie is an orphan who has lived in the care of her Uncle Davidson. Uncle D decides to put a spin on the financially troubled family Italian restaurant. He is making it into a vampire-themed extravaganza called Sanguini's: A Rare Restaurant. Quincie thinks her life is finally going on track and she can focus on school and her werwolf boyfriend until troubel strikes! The head chef, Vaggio of her uncle resturant, is murdered in the kitchen and his body is left mangled with claw marks, Quincie fears that her shape-shifting-challenged boyfriend will become a suspect. Quincie forces herself to sneak around and find out who really killed Vaggio, just as quincie thinks she got her suspect, another employye is killed, except this time claws and bit marks on the nape of the neck are found on the body
5 stars!*****
-Abiba S 9th
MY SISTER'S KEEPER
Jodi Picoult
This book portayed soo much emotion and feeling it was oreety darn hard to put it down!. It's about wo sisters. The younger of the sisters,Anna was born with one purpose in mind - to be a donor for her older sister Kate, who was diagnosed with terminal leukemia at age 2. Now, at 13, Anna sues her parents for the rights to her own body - at the risk of losing her sister. The ensuing battle, both within the family and within the courtroom, shakes the concept of family to the very core, and calls into question the term "good parenting." "love". I really enjoyed this book
-Abiba S 9th
A LONG WAY GONE: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier
by Ishmael Beah
I actualy read this book beacuse a friend of mine was reading it during schhol. she said it was really good so i requestied it at the library it had 54 holds already on it and i finally got afterschool was out.
This book is about a boy named Ishmael Beah. He shares his story to us. At the age of 12, he fled attacking rebels and wandered a land rendered unrecognizable by violence. By 13, he'd been picked up by the government army, and there, he found that he was capable of truly terrible acts. this book carries us through his journey and how time was then.
I reccomend this book to anyone I guess
-Abiba S 9th
How To (Un)cage a Girl by Francesca Lia Block
This was a book of poems for girls. It's main subject is a girl's journey from girlhood to womanhood, but there were poems for many subjects relating to girls. I didn't really like many of the poems. Most of them were really confusing. I did, however, like a few of the poems. My favorites were "Teenage Fairy" and "Forty-Five Thoughts For My Daughters and My Virtual Daughters."
I do not recommend this book.
Jeanie N., Grade 10
James A. 9th
The Witches- Ronald Dahl
This is a very good book with an dark sence of humor. it has many twists in the plot and make witches cool for the first time. This book is about a bunch of whiches who really hate children in order to get close to the children the whiches disguies them selves as innocent old ladies. everyone belives that these are real whiches until a convention wher they take of their faces lol .
James A. 9th
Bronx Masquerade-by Nikki Grimes
This is a very deep book that has to do with poetry and life. this story is like a collection of different stories from the main characters. This is a good story for young people to read wether they are boys or girls. the main setting in the story is mr ward classroom. Each one of the teens in this class room is troubled in someway. includeing the main character tyrone who is experiecned with a violent lifestyle or lupe a girl who longs to get pregnant. Any way MR. Ward creates these poetry meetings to unite the children so they can express their feelings in a positive way. the only thing about this book i found bad was the outdated language and how the book sterotyped every thing
James A. 9th grade
Deadline-by Chris Crutcher
This is absolutley the best book i have ever read. It is full of witty comments and heartfelt diologue. Its actually about a boy named Ben Wolf who has just found out that he has less than a year to live by his doctor. He is a senior and is 18 so he decides not to get treatment for his diseasse. he is also a technicaly an adult so he decides not to tell his parent and his brother that he is dieing. He is a wwierd character because instead of being intantly scared and going into hystrics by finding out about this frim new he thinks about thing that he can do befor he dies. These things included joining the schools football team which he did. Change the life of a local drunk and have the hottest girl he thinks (dallas suzuki to go out with him and to have sex with her (ewwww i know right ) Any way this is a great book to read because i shows teens to apreciate life and not waste it on drugs sex and alchole. no matter how muche we dislike this book or like it we can all take a lesson of life from it and that is why i give this book 5 out of 5 stars. this book should be recomended for all high schoolers to read. the only bad thigs is the overly articulate language can confues other if ur not really paing attention. i think this is the best book i ever read.
(ps sorry for the bad grammer and spelling )
The life Of a Jonas
By, Emily A Carltson
Ok so this bkook was a biography the Jonas Brothers. I don't know if it even counts though, it was extremly short only 56 pages!!! I'm still going to carry-on though because it was a book and im sure there are SOME Jonas fans reading this right now. Basically this book talks about their hobbies, talents, intrests, and their family etc. It has everything you need to know about a Jonas. I enjoyed reading this book beacuse I am a fan of Jonas. If you aren't a fan, I highly reccomend you NOT to waste your time reading this book. However the same author did write biographies for other bands such as Boys Like Girls, All-American Rejects,Miley Cyrus, and Pan!c At the Disco.
-Abiba S 9th
The Absolutely true story of a part-time indian by Sherman Alexie
Ben greenfeld 9th
This was a very good book. probably the first actual book that i had to read for school that i enjoyed reading. Over this book was exciting, hilarious, disturbing, and just outright awesome. although the part where he is talking about how much he loves masturbating is kinda weird it still was a good book and i reccommned this book to all teens. thank you bye
myadah k.
grade 9
PRIVATE BY KATE BRIAN
A 15 year old girl Reed Brennan wins a scholorship to Easton Academy.When she arrives on a beautiful,steeped campus of Easton,everyone is a bit sophisticated,more gorgeous,and a lot wealthier than she ever thought posible.She feels like she's on the outside,looking in.
Until she meets the Billings Girls.They are the most beautiful,intelligent,and confident girls on campus.They hold all the power in a world where power is fleeting but means everything.Reed vows to do everything it takes to be accepted in their inner circle.
myadah k.
grade 9
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
Junior was born with "water" on the brain and when he was six months old had to undergo surgery which was not supposed to survive but did.He had a variety of Physical problems.Junior wants to be a cartoonist.They have poverty problems.Mr.P told told Junior that he was instructed to hurt Indians so they can give up being an Indian.Then Junior wants to go to Reardan.When he tells Rowdy,he beats him up.Everyone on the rez hates Junior becuase they think he's a trader.
myadah k.
grade 9
Bratfest at Tiffany's
It's the 8th grade year at Octavian Country Day School. Massie Block decides after seeing the entire Pretty Committee being dumped at Skye's party that they need to give up on boys. Massie declares a 'boyfast,' and soon the PC is transformed into the NPC (New Pretty Committee). But with the boys at "BOCD", the NPC's popularity as they know it takes a turn for the worse. The boys are the new alphas, and Massie Block must do everything she can to maintain her 8th grade alpha status.
myadah k.
grade 9
The Clique
The Clique is a petty story about four best friends: Massie, being the leader; Dylan; Alicia; and Kristen. These girls are trying to survive the seventh grade, and by doing it in style. These four best friends are extremely snobby and are descendants from ridiculously wealthy families. They have nothing but the best designer clothes and makeup and live in the most lavish mansions. They are treated like mini adults and think that they have all the power and control in the world, even though they are just barely teenagers. By being given everything they desire, they have come to expect that same treatment everywhere they go. Looking good is their job, and disrespecting others who are less fortunate is their hobby. Things get a little crazy for the leader Massie, when an old friend of her father’s shows up with his wife and two children who are to stay in their pool house until they get their feet back on the ground. One child is named Claire and she happens to be Massie’s age. Massie refuses to accept the poor and unfashionable Claire. Wearing overalls and Keds, Massie thinks Claire is a walking advertisement for Target unlike her, who wouldn’t be caught dead in that store. There is no way that Massie would ever be seen with her at school or even inside her own house. Massie is forced to deal with Claire on a daily basis and continues to treat her like dirt.
James A. 9TH
Trouble Dont Last-by shelly perasal
This so is a interesting story about an 11 year old boy named samuel. Sameuel was a slave untile one night someone named harrison also another slave pulled him out of bed to start their great escape from the south to head north some challengse that face sam are running hideing and staravation. this is a well written book that deserves alot of awards for its good diologue,
Fancy White Trash by Marjetta Geerling
White Trash is how Abby describes her family in this book. Abby Savage, your typical teen that goes to school wanting it to end. her bestfriend's name is Cody. Cody hasn't said anythjing yet but Abby for sure knows he's gay. You can describe Abby as the glue to her family that can hold them together. But things arent looking so good when her mom gets pregnant from her sister's guitar instructor. Thats when her family falls apart.
The Dewey Decimal System of Love by Josephine Carr
This book truly captured me and I wanted to read more. It's about Allison who is a forty year old librarian. She has a good job, a good friend, and 15 years of celibacy. She soon falls for Aleksi Kullio, the new orchestra conductor. Allison also gets into trouble with Aleksi's wife, and soon realize they seem distant toward each other, but that doesnt stand in the way of Allison. Soon enough, she realizes that Kullio was using her, so she gets back at him in the end. I recommend this book for everyone interested in a librarians life, and everyone interested in life altogether!
James A. 9th
Milkweed-by jerry spinelli
This is an interesting book about the halocust that moves at a lightning fast pace.I also like this book because you can finish reading in a relitavily short time because you eyes are bus scanning the page for the actions that happen in almost evry sentence.this books follows a boy named stopthief or misha who trys to overcome bad life in warsha during the halocust. i recomend it for people who are intrested of learning history of world warr 2
James A. 9th
Sadako and the thousand paper cranes-by elenor coerr
This is a great story even though its very short. I like this stort because this book is one book you cant get tired of.Its about a girl named sadako who get luchemia. She belives ifshe makes a thousand paper cranes she could have one wish. she never finish makeing the thousand paper cranes but she dies and other continue her legasy. Its a ver nice book for anay age from 3rd grade to highschool.
James A. 9th
Bridge to Terabithia-by Katherine Patterson
this is a great story about imagination and life. for me it shows to apperciate life even more because you dont know when you are going to looose it. one of the main charactes named lesli dies of a fall. this storry whil might be short is a great book.
James A. 9th
Hatchet-by Gary Paulsen
This is a interesting story that teaches survival. It starts out kinda boreing but it get inot action as soon as the plane crashes. This book builds suspence but by chapter 5 you alredy know hes gonna get rescued. I like this book because its a fun book to read.
Privileged
By, Kate Brian
This book is like a branch from the private series. This is the first bookvI've read in the Privileged series and it was preety good. In this book, Ariana Osgood has escaped from the Brenda T. Trumbull Correctional Facility and is determined to live the glmaour life she used to hsve before. She completely changes her identity after escaping snd is ALMOST completely un-recognizable. However Ariana seems as though she has turn good, she really hasn't. She's still the same Psycho murderer that she wwas back when she killed 3 innocent people.... including Thomas Pearson, the most loved guy on campus. Anyway, Ariana won't stop at anything to get what she wants, you cross the line with her and your dead (literally).---------This book was a little too surreal for me. It was good, but its hard to belive that someone could be that possesed, so crazy to kill like that. I reccomend it to anyone who like the private series or anyone who likes suspense type books
-Abiba S 9th
The Sisterhood Of the Traveling Pants.
By, Ann Brashares
WOW!!! This book was extraordinary, none like any other. It was way better than i thought it was going to be and I'm glad I choose it off the list. I just got it yesterday and I started reading it late last night. It was soo good I stayed up 'til 1:46 a.m reading it!!
The Sisterhood Of the Traveling Pants is baout 4 best friends. (Lena,Tibbly Bridget, Carmen). They've known each other practically since they were born, and their mothers go wayyyy back, like all the way back to aerobic pregnacy classes. The girls(Lena,Tibbly Bridget, Carmen) have spent summer together for as long as they could remeber. Its their first summer apart and they're all going different ways... except for Tibbly, who is staying home for the summer. During their last night together, they vowed to stay friends and each other, together or apart. They did so by means of the secret "magic" Traveling Pants. The pants were just old pants from a local thrift shop but they did magic wonders to all 4 girls when they put them on. And the pants coincidentally, almost magically fit all 4 girls perfectly. even though they were all different sizes (leg lenght, butt size etc).. the pants fit them all, thus making htem their secret magic pants. The friends promise to pass along the pants to each other throughout the course of summer.
Lena takes the pants to Greece w/ her where in the midst of "skinny dipping" she sparks a chain of events:some good the rest mostly bad for her and eveyone else.
Tibbly uses the pants for luck in her sorry attempt to put on a documentary about her suckish town. Also uses the pants for help at ther not-so-suckish job at Wallmans where she be-friends a girl with leukemia and changes her life and her own life too.
Bridgett takes the pants to soccer camp in Baja California in high hopes that they will help her on and OFF the soccer field (*hint hint :D )
Carmen experiences transfirmation in the pants when she tirns from saucy Carmen Carmeena hispanic girl to "wicked stepdaughter of the west"
5 STRAS AWARDED TO THIS BOOK BY ME! :D
***** <----- stars
I reccomend this book to all girls who havent picked a book from the list yet! YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK its going "read me!" "read me"!! just for you....ha
-Abiba S 9th
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang
I'm really glad this book was assigned to us as required summer reading. I loved it, and finished it in a day. There are three parts to the story. One part is about Jin Wang, a Chinese-American student. Jin wants to be an all-American boy. Another part is about the Monkey King who wants to join the gods in heaven. And the last part is Danny, an all-American guy, who gets an annual, disastrous visit from his cousin Chin-Kee that ruins his reputation at school.
You would think that none of these characters have nothing to do with eachother, but at the end, you see how they do. It was a great surprise ending. This was a funny graphic novel; I laughed out loud a lot.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
The Other Boleyn Girl by Phillipa Gregory
This is the BEST book I've ever read (or at least one of them). I LOVE this book. It takes place during the time of King Henry VIII. The Boleyn family is highly ambitious and wants to get to higher places, so they push their daughter, Mary, to court the king. If she gets a son, then they all would catapult to wealth and power. When Mary does get a son, however, her sister Anne starts courting the king. This book is about sister rivalry. It was an amazing book. Everyone needs to read it. I've read it several times, and I still plan on reading it again this summer.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
Even though I rather despise Twilight and the epidemic it has caused, I still can't help but read Breaking Dawn for the third time. I think it's the only one out of the series I like, even though I hate Bella in this book. In this book, Edward the vampire and Bella, the stupid human girl, gets married, and strangely, she gets pregnant. No one knows what this creature, that is literally sucking the life out of Bella, is going to be like.
It's not a literary masterpiece, or anything, but it's a pleasant read.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Everything You Want by Barbara Shoup
This book was... alright. It was rather boring- the narrator kept talking about memories she had and stuff, which didn't keep me entertained. But this book was about a girl named Emma, in college, and miserable. She's lonely and has nothing to look forward to. But then, one day, the goose that she uses for an experiment, actually inspires a series of numbers that wins the lottery. But funny, when her family wins 50 million dollars, they start to fall apart.
This book was about 200 pages too long. I felt like the author really dragged this story.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Chobits (Book #5) by Clamp
This is a manga series that I absolutely love. Not only are the graphics cool but the story is really creative. This is about a really amazing invention called a Persocom. Persocoms are basically ... people computers. They look like human beings (they're all attractive though) but they are actually robots/computers. Hideki finds a Persocom someone threw out, and he brings her home. He begins to care and love this robot, whom he calls Chi, as if she is a human being. In this particular book, Chi gets kidnapped. And things from Chi's past begin to come up.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
MARS (Book #8) by Fuyumi Soryo
Another manga series I love.
Kira is innocent, shy, quiet, sweet, and a talented painter. Rei is a "bad boy" who always seems to have a different girl on his arm. After an encounter, these two unlikely people fall in love with eachother. In this book, Rei wonders why Kira won't let him touch her. Is there something in her past? He learns that Kira was raped by her step-father when she was younger, and when he finds out that she and her mom move back in with her stepfather, he is furious, and breaks up with her. This is a sweet series.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Blanket by Craig Thomas
I really like this autobiographical graphic novel. It simply follows his childhood into early adulthood, from moments with his siblings to his first love. I think it's really creative of him to display his life in that kind of form.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
The Bridge to Terabithia
Katherine Paterson
This book is on a lower-level standard for me usualy routine, but its a fin book and I'm glad i read it. In this book Jesse Oliver Aarons, Jr meets a new neighbor, Leslie Burke. At first Jesse was intimidated by her, she was a faster runner than he was and she was braver. However as time went on the two became friends. They created a magical kingdom together, Terabithia. Together they conquer evil such as Joyc Anne herself. When something terrible happens, Jesse finds himself to blame and goes through denial, and other mixed feelings. Later he mouters up the courage to return to Teribithia..alone.. after all he is the King there. I reccomend this book to all ages.. afterall, you're never too old for a classic
The Amazing Days Of Abby Hayes: The More, The Merrier by Anne Mazer
I don't exactly know why I read this book earlier (maybe because it's short- 100 pages or so of really easy reading). It's a book fifth and sixth graders would love. I think this book is very cute though. It's about a girl named Abby Hayes who feels as though she has a boring room (the only interesting aspect of her room is the numerous calendars she has), so she wants to paint it purple- her FAVORITE color! She's also throwing a "Hooray! It's Summer!" Party and is afraid her friends and classmates won't like it. I recommend people to recommend it to their younger siblings.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
James A. 9th
Black LIKe Me-John Howard Griffen
This is an intresting story about a journilist named john Howard griffen who tries to learn more about the african american community by aactually changeing his skin color. I think its a great book because you dont hear much about changeing your skin corlor to get info . talk about hardcore jurnilism. lol
James A. 9TH
No Pretty Picture:A CHILD OF WAR-by Anita Lobel
this is a book that i read that i found kina of boreing . to me it seemed like the typical story of the halocaust like so many before it. i think that those before it have potrayed it better than this book because its not as graphic and does not get you as involved in gthe story. IT's about anita lobel and how nazis nroke into her home and how she spent her childhodd hideing moveing until she finnaly gets to america. its not as good as diary of anne franke or milkweed but its a good book but not good for me.
James A. 9th
The othersiders- by S.E.Hinton
This book is a nice book that has a good plot. Its about thes to groups the socs and the greasers that have it out for eachother. the mani character in this story is poneyboy. its a very good story a very hard to explain but everyone should read it . i give it 4 out of 5 stars
When she was Good
by, Norma Fox Mazer
This book is about a girl named Em, She soent the first 14 years of her life suffering. She survived her fathers alcoholic rages and rude insults. And day by day she watched her mother grow more and more fraile,dying from depression in the inside and ortting on the outside. Em was able to survive both those things. Now that her parents are dead, em is still suffering. Her sister Pamela constantly abuses her and uses her for money. Now that Pamela is also dead, Em is finaly free, finaly able to live her normal life,well at least she thinks she can. Em trys soo hard to forget her past, but she cant. It haints her eveyday, somehow she cant erase the awful images from her mind. this book was soo sad!
Abiba S 9th
Green Angel
By, Alice Hoffman
This book is about a quiet shy girl named Green. They called her Green beacuse she was soo talented in the garden, after all it was where she spent most of her time. She knew all the screts and remedies to make all the vegies grow ripe and tall faster tahn anybody else in town. Green's sister, Aurora was the exact opposite. She was loud,outgoing, and hated being alone. Just the thought of standing still and quiet for more than 5 min. sent chills up her spine. All the nieghtbors loved Aurora.. actualy eveyone did, at school, in town, even people that she didnt know her loved her! Green didnt mind htough, she didnt want nor need any attention. Ok, so that was background info, the real story begins when Green's family go out into town to sell the crops at the market. Green is left at home ,as usual, to care for the garden. When her family do not come home at the time they told her, Green statrts to panic. At first she thinks it mearly beacuse they were stuff in traffic, thus, making their arrival delayed. But after two days and still tthey do not return, Green is scared. Then word goes around that her family have been killed in a car accident! Green was crushed and devistated. Little by little Green starts to deteriorate little by little. Its only through a series of mysterious encounters that Green can relearn the lessons of love and begin to heal enough to tell her story.
-----------(i rate this book with 2 stars, wasnt very appealing)
-Abiba S 9th
Pride and Prejudice
By,Jane Austen
Pride and Pejuduce was a phenomenal book. The author's use of dialect and literature was amazing. Through this book, the author exposes the true meaing of pride and prejudice, how they may take over in such a way that it may be translated into just pure hatred and arrogance. The first line of the bookk was soo meaingful it exposed the whole theme just right then and there:"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife" That first sentence really made me think. The first line of the book the author has declared that the main subject of the novel will be courtship and marriage, and she has established the humorous tone of the novel
The first line also defines Austen's book as a piece of literature that connects itself to the 18th century period. Pride and Prejudice is 18th century because of the emphasis on man in his social environment rather than in his individual conditions. The use of satire and wit, a common form of 18th century literature, also contributes to label the book as 18th century. Some people may think that because Austen used soo much of her own personal feeling and incorporated it throughout the book , the book can be classified as romantic. I cant really make that connection though.
--I also think the main object of Austen’s satire in the novel is the mercenary and the ignorance of the people, a common criticism of the 18th century.
This book was by far ver6y long to read ,but I think, worth the while. This book really challenged me to interperate what the author was saying at a much high-level thinking.
-Abiba S 9th
Hacking Harvard
by Robin Wasserman
This book, was about 3 really smart best friends, Eric, Max and Schwarz and how they get a not-so-smart slacker into Harvard all beacuse of a bet and $25,000. The best friends, together, exaggerate and change the slacker's application, and not only help him ace the SAT by cheating, but alos promise not to tell anyone as part of the deal. This book was overall okay, but it seemed like a re-mixed version of the book "Prine of Princeton" which is about how a boy bribes 4 nerds into getting him into Princeton.
-Abiba S 9th
Awakening (Chasing Yesterday Series #1)
by Robin Wasserman
Identity is an important life theme. You get a sense of feeling and belonging when you know where you come from and who you are. In Chasing Yesterday JD loses her identity, and is forced to go on a wild journey to get it back. Her adventures take her too many different settings, and keep her in contact with a number of characters with varied personalities. The author twists the story with every page, and will keep any reader interested. This is an excellent choice for anyone who likes a good mystery book.
-Abiba S 9th
Betrayal (Chasing Yesterday Series #2)
by Robin Wasserman
Ok, its Official, I'm hooked on this series!!
In Betrayal,J.D. and Daniel are on the run. They're running from the people that are after J.D., which seems to be just about everyone. They're running from the visions in J.D.'s head that might be the past, might be the future, or might just be hallucinations. And J.D. is running from the guilt that she is probably responsible for the death of the woman who, falsely, claimed to be her mother.
The only thing either of them knows for sure is that finding out the answers to J.D.'s past is the only hope they have for future survival. If they can find everything out fast enough, they may even be able to turn the tables on whoever it is that's chasing them. If they can stay alive, and free, long enough.
This book picks up right where the last one, AWAKENING, left off. It is a whirlwind adventure from beginning to end. If you liked the last one, this one won't give you a second to slide to the back of your chair. And the end will keep you there, waiting for the next chapter in J.D.'s story.
The Absolutely true story of a part-time indian by Sherman Alexie
This book is halriuos, yet serious, upbeat yet sad. It's overall good. This book was really fun to read, one of the most enjoyable school books I've ever read. Although, the begining was a bit disturbing, but hey! eveyone has their weird cooky habbits..... Towards the middle of the book, things started to become really sad, all the deaths and such.
-Abiba S 9th
myadah k.
grade 9
BEST FRIENDS FOR NEVER
The book begins with Claire and Massie making a bet--Massie can't go shopping for a month and Claire can't wear the same thing twice. Massie decided to throw a boy-girl Halloween party to secure her Alpha-staus. To persuade her parents, she and Claire pretend to get along and strike a deal. The Pretty Comittee's costume design is "Dirty Devils". While trying to copy Massie's clique costume, a girl cuts herself. This leads to Massie's group into trouble with the principal. Massie is very excited when she sees her crush, Cam Fisher, and doesn't notice her friends' crush, Derrick Harrington, who is crushing on her. Alicia meets a girl named Olivia who got a nosed job. They become friends. Cam and Claire meet. They spark--something Massie doesn't know.
Evolution, Me, and Other Freaks of Nature by Robin Brande
Mena and many other members of her community are really religious. But after she gets her church and other important people sued, she becomes like an outcast. When Ms. Shephard, the science teacher, begins teaching evolution, things become crazier. I really liked this book.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Claymore (Book 1) by Norihiro Yago
This is the first book of this manga series. I finished it, loved it, and was excited to start the next one, when, to my dismay, I went to the library, and they didn't have the next book (I will begin a quest to find it). This book takes place in a world where monsters called Yoma exist. They look like humans, and live among them disguised, but really, they are predators of humans. Humans depend on Claymores to find these Yoma and eliminate them. Claymores are half monster and half human. In this book, the Claymore that comes to kill the village Yoma kills Raki's brother. Raki finds the Claymore, named Clare, fascinating. He follows her.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Amazing Days Of Abby Hayes, #03: Reach For The Stars by Anne Mazer
Ok, I know these books are way below my level, but they're just so fun to read, and there are plenty of these books at the library, so I decided to read them. Abby Hayes wants to get a good role in her school's production of Peter Pan, like Peter Pan or Wendy. But she doesn't. She works behind the scenes. At first, she's unhappy about it, but she grows to learn that every part of a play is important. Again- suggest to your younger siblings to read this!
Jeanie N., grade 10
Amazing Days Of Abby Hayes, The #07: Two Heads Are Better Than One by Anne Mazer
(Yes, I read these books out of order- it doesn't seem to make a difference). Abby gets sick with the flu, and ends up completely ruining her hair with a haircut she gave herself. When she returns back to school, she finds out that they're having a science fair. And her assigned partner is a boy! She ends becoming good friends with him, though. These books brings back memories. I used to read some of them when I was younger.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
The Amazing Days of Abby Hayes: Everything New Under the Sun by Anne Mazer
Abby goes to stay with her Grandma Emma for spring vacation. But she finds out her cousin Cleo is staying too! They don't get along at first- they compete for Grandma's Emma love.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Amazing Days Of Abby Hayes, The #14: It's Music To My Ears by Anne Mazer
Abby is finally in middle school! But she finds that everyone has changed, even her good friends. When she meets a boy that she likes, she feels as though she begins to change also. I can relate.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Cut by Patricia McCormick
I don't think I liked this book very much. The characters were not interesting- they had nothing more to them than their issues. It's about Callie, a girl who cuts herself. She is sent to Sea Pines, a treatment facility, to get better. But she won't talk. Another reason I didn't like this book was the weird was that the author used second person point of view (I think?), so it was really confusing at parts. It was really short and rather cliche in my opinion.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Legally Blonde by Amanda Brown
I watched the movie long before I read this book. I'm not sure which I prefer though. This book didn't disappoint though. It was well-written. It's about a blonde named Elle Woods- rich, spoiled, just like a "Talking Barbie". She was in a hot sorority and had an amazing boyfriend, Warner. One night, when she thinks he's going to propose, he actually breaks up with her, because he feels she's not "serious" enough and announces he's going to law school. Determined to show him that she can be serious, she follows him to Stanford Law School, where she finds out he's engaged to a girl named Sarah, complete opposite of Elle. Everyone sees Elle as the laughingstock of the school, and can't take her seriously.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
LOVELY, haunting book. I really liked this book. My friend recommended it to me after reading it herself, and it was so good, I read it in one sitting! It's about a girl who gets brutally raped and murdered by her neighbor. She tells her story from heaven. It's really eerie- to hear a murder story from point of view of the victim (because they don't survive to tell their story). I really enjoyed it.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Dreamland by Sarah Dessen
I love Sarah Dessen- she writes the most amazing books for teenagers. This one was really good, one of my favorites of hers. Rogerson is gorgeous and desirable, and Caitlyn falls for him. But he turns out to be abusive...
Jeanie N. Grade 10
This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen
Yes, I'm having a Sarah Dessen Marathon- I LOVE all of her books. This one was no exception. Remy's mom is about to marry husband number five, so she hasn't really seen what a relationship is supposed to be like. But she meets a boy named Dexter, who is not her "type" (for need of another phrase), and she starts to understand. Sarah Dessen makes captivating characters, and I noticed all her books are about boy + girl. I guess that's why she's such an amazing author for teens.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Everlost by Neal Shusterman
I didn't exactly like how this book was written- it sounded... amateur-ish? But I thought overall, it was REALLY creative. Everlost is this place halfway between life and death. Nick and Allie didn't survive after car accidents, so they're stuck in Everlost, with a bunch of other lost souls. If you stand in one place too long, you sink into the Earth. These two start a quest to leave Everlost.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Boys Over Flowers, Vol. 29 by Yokio Kamio
I LOVE this manga series, more than I love the rest (I say that about all of them, don't I?) It's because this one is funny and witty and there are four hot guys in it. I haven't finished reading this series, but I have watched the Korean drama (which is really good). Tsukushi is a poor girl in a school for wealthy, rich kids. She begins warring with F4, four of the richest and more powerful guys in the school. But she ends up falling in love with their leader, Tsukusa. Being poor with no status, his mother, the leader of a big corporation disapproves of their relationship. In this one, Tsukusa's mother does some more evil plotting to split them apart. I don't love the drawings and graphics as much as I love the story. I think Yokio Kamio has a different, unique style of drawing that doesn't appeal to me.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
James A. 9th
The Secert life of sparrow delaney-by Suzanne harper
this is a nice story about a girl named sparrow who has 6 older sisters. her family is like physics and they talkt to ghost. its a very interesting story to read and people should definetly read it because it is very good.
JAMES A. 9TH
Dont get it twisted-by paula chase
This is a very bad atory if i do say so myself. the plot is kinda lame and i dont recomend it to anyone. its about this girl who likes this guy but herparents wont let her date him. so she has thirteen days to make her parents like him
i give it o out of 5 stars its that bad.
Size 12 Is Not Fat: A Heather Wells Mystery by Meg Cabot
Before I start talking about how much I liked this book, let me tell you how much I LOVE Meg Cabot. I've read a lot of her books- The Princess Diaries series, the Queen of Babble Series (not the entire thing yet)... Meg Cabot is a phenomenal writer that never cease to makes me laugh. This book was about Heather Wells, ex-pop star, who has gained a bit of weight. She gets a job as Assistant Dorm Director at a New York college. When a girl's body ends up in an elevator shaft, she knows it's foul play- girls just don't elevator surf. So she tries to find the killer! I usually don't like mysteries, but because Meg Cabot wrote this one, I had to read it.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
James A. 9th
god grew tierd of us-john dau
this is an interesting story i read during school and read again this summer. Its basicly a documentry about the lost boys of sudan. it shows me that we take so many things for gratted in the u.s. while other countries are strugling very badley.
James A. 9th
a series of unfortunate evens:the end- by lemony sniket
i liked this book because it was everything i hoped to end the series. coun olaf actualy did some good things and the book had a relitavly happy ending. the whoal series to me is like a gian puzzel and the last book peaces the other books togeather to form one big jigsaw puzzzle.
James A. 9h
Aseries of unfortunate events: the miserable mill
This book is the 4th book in the series. i could say this one will keep you on the edge of your seat. it has hyponism manipulation and big saws.that what you need to make a good story. anyway the orphans go to this mill but soon have to leave after count olaf is threatning their lives yet againg to get his hands on their fortune.
James A. 9th
Aseries of unfortunate event:The Wide Window-by lemony sniket
this is the 3rd book in the series. after their encounters with countolaf the kids move into their very timid and scared aunt josephines house. Every thig seems fine untill count olaf come a sturs up trouble.
James A. 9th
The Birchbarck House-by LOuise Erdrich
this is a nice family book about trust love and being happy. It is about a girl named makayas who lives with her family everything seems fine until a man come with an invisable killer. which is a sickness that has never been found in those parts. this story seemed like it would be boreing at first but when i got mor into it it got way more interesting.
I've been reading some great books this summer. One of the best was A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. In the early 1900s, what is today, E.F Water Safari,was THE ENCHANTED FOREST back then. Mathilda Gokey a young, courageous, smart girl longs for a happy family, friends, and an education.So she works at the E.F., hoping to make heads and tails, with her job, and family.
Things Fall Apart
by Chinua Achebe
This book was about an African man named Okonkwo who strggled to truly find out what kind of man he really was. Okonkwo wanted more then anything to not be a agbala(women/man who has no title) like his father. He wanted to have a title and be known for doing great maculine things. Throughout his story Okonkwo stuggles with keeping his "chi" in line. He goes from poor-to riches-to-poor-to riches numerous times in this book. This book was a very meaningful book about the African customs, their traditions, vudu, and how a man dealswith "thigns that fall apart"
The Royal Diaries
Eleanor
Crown Jewel Of Aquitaine
France,1136
This book was a book about Queen Eleanor of France. This book was written in Diary form, Eleanor being the writter. In this book, Eleanor talks about her palace life, romances, and other such things that royalty talk about
This book was indeed fun to read.
-Abiba S 9th
ttyl (Talk to You Later)
by Lauren Myracle
Ok so, when i first picked out this book, i just looked at he cover, and i thought it was a cute cover, so ichecked it out. I though Laurens idea of text messaging was very creative and adding a spin to the normal standard book writting methods, even if you were confused sometimes, it was very cool. So, this book suprised me because the plot of this book was very diffent than i thought. The author wrote about 3 best friends surviving high school and sharing secret dets with each other, however there was acrualy some moral sense used in this book. Lauren really let you get the feeling that the 3 best friends were actually talking to each other. I reccomned this book to people who want to read something fun and different, and i reccomend this book, its worth buying!
-Abiba S 9th
Perfect
by Natasha Friend
Perfect, the author of this book is by Natasha Friend. This book is a form of fiction. This book is not what you would expect from the title. It's the total opposite. It's really interesting and will make you want to read more, and you will never want to stop reading it. The main character of the story is Isabelle Lee who is a thirteen year old 8th grader. Isabelle is a typical teenager. She has brown hair, kind of chubby, but not fat. She's been suffering over her father's death, and now has an eating disorder. She wants to be perfect like this girl at her school, Ashley Barnum, but little does she know that Ashley isn't so perfect which everyone seems to think she is. I can't identify with this character about having my father pass away, or having an eating disorder. She has a little sister named April. Her little sister tries to get Isabelle in trouble and bribes her to give her, her most prized positions. The mother is another character in this story. Her moms a collage literature teacher. Isabelle's mother is suffering too she cries herself to sleep every night. Isabelle was thirteen at her house; some parts are at school, and at group therapy that her mom makes her take. The thing that makes this story so exciting and makes you want to read more is to see if she goes anorexia or if she makes friends with a girl Ashley Barnum a perfect girl that goes to Isabelle's school. The authors trying to say that in a world where appearances matter, trying to be perfect takes some interesting turns. Just love how your body is and you are who you are. Don't try to change the way you look or act because people only like you for you. This story is about doing the right thing. Even if it's hard for you. It showed me to love me for me, and to not to try and be perfect. The over all summary of this book is there was a death in there family. The mother and Isabelle go to therapy to try and get better. The girl Ashley Barnum that everyone at school said was perfect and seemed perfect really wasn't. That's who Isabelle was trying to be like for a long time till she saw Ashley going to the same classes as her. She realized that nobody's perfect. This book was exciting and I would read it again. This author has the other book similar to this one called Lush and it's was good too, I have read that one to. This book is very good for teenagers the problems that happen in this story are like the same problems some teens go through in life. It shows teenage .. people that its a big world out there and even if they feel like no one can help them, someone can and they arent alone. I give this book five stars (*****), it very good!
Gone with the Wind
by Margaret Mitchell
Gone With the Wind is a novel that takes place in the antebellum South. Scarlett O'Hara, a stubborn, strong-willed, lively young girl, is the main character. The beginning of the novel starts with her ordinary life: attending barbeques, flirting with her beaus, and worrying about what to wear. As the novel goes on, however, many trials, ultimately brought on by the war, turn Scarlett's world upside down, and all that she knows and takes for granted, disappears. These trials include escaping Atlanta when the Yankees come, remarrying twice, dealing with the death of her mother, and returning home to find that everything has changed. However, even though these would be a reason for anyone to stop living, the trials actually bring out how strong Scarlett really is, even though for the first 15-16 years of her life, she was pampered and lived in luxury. Through all of this, Scarlett believes she loves Ashley Wilkes, a boy from her childhood, brought up to be the epitome of 'good breeding'. She also has to deal with Melanie Wilkes, Ashley's wife, because in her despair, Scarlett rashly agreed to marry Melanie's brother, Charles. Most of Scarlett's main decisions are influenced by her infatuation with Ashley and her belief that they are supposed to be together. However, Scarlett's third husband, Rhett Butler, is the one she actually loves, although she doesn't know it. Rhett is the opposite of a gentleman in the eyes of the old-tradition Southerners, but his personality matches Scarlett. Both came from good families, but Rhett was disowned from his, and Scarlett goes against many of the lessons and etiquette she was taught. Underneath all the training, however, Scarlett is just as rebellious as Rhett and, she lets go of all her proper teachings to stay alive and support her family and relatives. She ends up not caring what others think, and holds onto the mantra of "I'll think of it tomorrow". Through her trials, she unwittingly comes to love and respect Melanie, even though she thinks she hates her for marrying Ashley. However, Melanie is the only woman in her life who actually really loved her. Also, Melanie is the one who makes Scarlett realize how much Rhett loves her, even though he never lets her know it. Because of this, Scarlett rushes back to Rhett, only to find that he "doesn't give a damn" anymore, but Scarlett's strong personality keeps her from breaking, and the novels ends with her words, "tomorrow is another day." I interprate that as in " yeah well today sucked but tommoroow is going to suck as well if I keep mopping.. or I could forget about today and work hard to make tommorrow not....suck"
-Abiba S 9th
New Moon
by Stephenie Meyer
All right, so we go from Twilight to New Moon. Honestly, I thought the series would get better. New Moon just disappoints me even more. In the beginning of the book, we hear Bella's complaints about her birthday and how she is getting older than the eternally seventeen-year-old Edward. Honestly--what on earth? If I was turning eighteen I most certainly wouldn't complain about my birthday, in fact I'd be thrilled. Bella just continues to whine and complain about it, until when the Cullens provide a party for her, a simple paper cut sends Jasper into a feeding frenzy. This causes Edward to leave Bella. Once he goes, Bella goes into a state of catatonia for four months, shuts out her friends and family, and doesn't even try to move on. This greatly upset me. How on earth can this obscenely unhealthy behavior be glorified? And then, Bella begins to rely on her friend Jacob--solely on Jacob. Bella is just so weak and helpless on her own that she's like a leech--she attaches herself to 'stable' people and sucks the stability out of them just to feel whole again. When Jacob becomes a werewolf and tries to push Bella away, Bella just crumbles. I found it completely ridiculous. Then, Bella attempts doing dangerous things--even going as far as suicide by jumping off a cliff--just to hear her 'beloved' Edward's voice in her head? What? Uh, hallucinating is NOT HEALTHY. If you're hallucinating, the first thing you do is check yourself into a mental asylum. How on earth is suicide portrayed as romantic? I can say, however, the only positive thing is the friendship between Bella and Jacob. It was a realistic turn on things, instead of the shallow romance between Bella and Edward. But even then, the positive becomes a negative, as Bella dumps Jacob the instant Edward comes back. A manipulative move, if you ask me. If that doesn't clue you in to how ridiculous, trite and over-the-top New Moon is, well then, all I can say is, you've been warned.
one star (*) Call me crazy and insane if you like but this book ISNT sooo "omg amazing" it really wasn't
-Abiba S 9th
Eclipse
by Stephenie Meyer
I will admit I found myself sucked in by Edwards high school appeal, but Meyer's simplistic writing style quickly started to get on my nerves. How many times must we be reminded how cold Edward is?? She might as well just dedicate a whole chapter to that alone. And can Bella be more small minded and whiney? She only talks about herself and HER problems, just like in New Moon. Why do we have to suffer through 200 pages of fluff to actually get to the plot in each book? Once the plot is revealed the last third of the book is spent quickly resolving the issue and reminding us how cold, handsome, and mesmerizing Edward is how hot, hairy, and egotistical Jacob is and how co-dependent, whiney, and ackward Bella is. I won't even go into the numerous holes in the story that even in a 'Vampire and Werewolf...I mean shape-shifter world' make no sense and run contradictory to her own plot writing. I think from now own, I'll just to wait till the Twilght Saga movies come out.. beacuse its become truly clear that the actors know what they are doing wayy more that Sephanie does.
(**) two stars
-Abiba S 9th
Intensely Alice
by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
I love reading the Alice book because I can watch the characters grow and mature thoughout the series. In this Alice book, Alice is still in a battle with her how shall I put it ......"socail stats.
However i think Alice actually does the right hting this time. Alice books are always fun and enjoyable to read and each one is always a surprise. I am anticipating for the next one to come out.
-Abiba S 9th
:)
Boys R Us (Clique Series #11)
by Lisi Harrison
*SPOILER ALERT* This book was boring and predictable. It did have it's usual massie comebacks and a few funny parts; but all in all I wasn't happy with it. Massie teaming up with Layne? Where was dune? Hasn't it been stated numerous times that Alicia is known for her 'C-cups' now all the sudden shes 'B-cups' ?? The author made numerous plot mistakes, and thats not professional at all. I love this series but the last few books have been disapointing to me. I want the old clique back...my favorite books were 'its not easy being mean' & 'Dial L for loser'. I'm really dissapointed, I loveee the clique books, I hope Lisi comes out with another hit sooon, I'm losing faith in her.
-Abiba S 9th
Harry Potter and the Deathly
by J. K. Rowling
This book is very good. It has a lot of suspense and thrilling opportunities. It is basicaly good versus evil in a struggle for the wizarding world. It shows that love is way more powerful than immortality or evil. As Harry, Ron, and Hermione take an exhilarating adventure in the search of how to destroy the "dark lord", they learn what friendship, teamwork, and love is all about. This book touched my heart.... Hey, what can i say? I love harry potter books!! (Although I'm not one of those crazily obsessed freaks lol) This book was the best by a long shot.
-Abiba S 9th
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
by J. K. Rowling
After enduring the 5th installment of Harry Potter (Order of the Phoenix) which was very dark, at times depressing, and quite honestly, frustrating primarily due to the character of Dolores Umbridge, the 6th volume is a welcome relief, and a perfect example of J.K. Rowlings brilliance. It is the sixth book in the series. Harry Potter is staying with his aunt and uncle over the summer as is the normal arrangement. But, when he receives a letter from Professor Dumbledore he is taken to the burrow where the Weaselys live. But not before a visit to the new professor Slughorn's house to persuade him to take the job of potions. Then Harry is made Head Captain of the Quidditch team and in addition to all of his classes he meets with Dumbledore for private "Lessons". But one class he had not planed to be taking was potions. Since he was without books he was allowed to borrow an old one. This one had " Property of the Half-Blood Prince" written in it along with spells, jinxes, hexes and lots of instructions that make potions a breeze if he follows the "Princes" instructions rather than the text books. But who could this "Half-Blood Prince" be? This question and more are answered in this fast paced book that doesn't lack anything from fantasy to romance. This book is a blast to read!!. Can't wait to see the movie as well!!
-Abiba S. 9th
Size 14 Is Not Fat Either (Heather Wells Mysteries) by Meg Cabot
Sequel to Size 12 is Not Fat! (I went ahead and got the next book in the series on hold at the library). This one didn't disappoint either. The head of a cheerleader is found in the kitchen at the NY college Heather works at. So of course, she plays detective. This one was as good as the first.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
True Confessions of a Hollywood Starlet by Lola Douglas
Morgan is a teen star who gets sent to Ft. Wayne, Indiana to get out of the spotlight for a while. She gets a makeover, a new name, a new identity, so no one would know who she really was. It's so different from her regular lifestyle... which is why she hates it. But then she finds love...
I really enjoyed this book.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen
I really, truly loved this book. I love how Sarah Dessen writes, and I love the whole plot of this book. (Also, I love how her books look- the covers are always fun, cute, and creative. I'm ashamed to say I judge books by their covers.) Auden's father is an author, and her mom is a busy professor. So naturally, education was and is a big part of their household. Her parents divorced, however, and growing up, Auden never had much of a childhood- her mom pressed her to study and strive in academics. But then one summer, she decides to get a change of scenery and goes to stay with her father, his wife, and their newborn daughter, Thisbe. They live in a tiny beach town. Auden meets Eli, a quiet, disturbed guy who lost his best friend in a car accident, and they start a quest for her to get back part of her childhood. She learns to ride a bike, goes bowling... Auden begins to "blossom".
Really excellent book. I recommend it to all teenage girls.
Play to the Angel by Maurine F. Dahlberg
I found this in my basement (it has the smell of old books, mildew) and decided to read it. It was really good. It takes place in Austria in 1938. Greta's brother was a musical prodigy before he died. Greta has a love for music and piano as well, but her mother ignores her desire to play and get lesson. Greta is determined and passionate about her music, and gets lessons with Herr Hummel. But then the Nazis invade Austria...
It's a really beautiful book.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
American Born Chinese By Gene Luen Yang
This book talks about three characters who have trouble fitting in and figuring out who they really are and should be. It had me sitting on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen to the Monkey-King, my favorite character.
This story shifts from one time period to another, it makes you want more and more.
Katya W. 10th grade
Purple Hisbiscus
by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Purple Hibiscus is a beautifuly written story. The plot is based on a 15 year-old (kimballi)and her older brother (Jaja) who grew up under the stifling patronage of a stern father. Her domineering father frequently physically abused his family alongside her, creating terror at home and stunting the psychological growth of his children. Against the backdrop of the deterioration of the socio-economic and political life of Nigeria as it undergoes a military coup, the life Kambili knows is shattered and she has to seek for refuge in the home of her aunt. Kambili the sheltered but highly restricted child, who never thought of herself as lucky and who had earlier been absconded by her peers and cousin because of her supposedly privileges, learns to assert herself and becomes a beloved character, a character who easily understood the plight of those around her. Overall, this was an awesome read. i cant believe its her debut novel. very expertly written. she's a master. i own her 3 books now. never disappointing
Suspicion
by Kate Brian
WOW!!! The Private Series by Kate Brian has been with me for like forever. The books just keep getting better and better! I know that some would disagree but I think that Reed really didnt deserved what happened to her at the end of Paradise Lost, getting pushed off the side of the boat, I really dont. She has been the most down-to-earth Anyway I love this series. I was overly joyed when Suspicion to came out. The book had soo many turns and twists in it! After I finished reading it i just keep staring at the cover saying to myself "no way!" "no way!!" You have to read it to really understand what i mean. I wont spoil the book for anone, so I'll just leave it at that... READ THE BOOK! But like Noelle says "Everything happens for a reason!" I LOVE THE BOOKS AND HOPE THAT KATE BRIAN WILL WRITE AND WRITE FOR AS LONG AS EASTON HAS BEEN AROUND! hahahahaha love ya all and happy reading this ah-mazzzzzzzzzzing series!!!
-Abiba S 9th
Beautiful Disaster (Privilege #2)
by Kate Brian
This book picked up right where Privilege left off... and the story line was good. It kept me very entertained(as it always does..) The only problem I had with it was the fact that a lot of Ariana's problems seemed to be too easily solved. Every issue she was presented with, she came up with a solution. It was predictable at times, but it's still not enough to keep me away from the story. I hope in the next book, the author will a spin or twist to the whole "Ariana disguise phase 2). I mean like a BIG twist! And who knows? Maybe Ariana's downfall is soon to come...the next book IS titled "Perfect Mistake."
-Abiba S 9th
Sweet 16
by Kate Brian
Sweet 16 was a fun and light read.This book takes the life of spoiled and bratty Teagan Phillips and shows how with a little dose of reality and an emotional roller coaster about old friends, so-called friends, and family. This is a great story that is definitely a book to read and read again and again!Sometimes the events that happened can be unrealistic but if you have a real good imagination then you will be able to get into the book. I reccommend this book to teens! Trust me, you'll really like this book
-Abiba S 9th
The Diary Of A Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
This book was wonderfully funny, and it welll written by the author. It talked about an Indian reservation boy, Junior, who wanted to separate himself because he believed he cold do better in life. So he singed up a new school, while leaving his best friend behind. The author did a wonderful job incorpaprating the pictures that were in the novel, and what I liked most were the set of rules he had written down. I think alot of kids could relate to the kind of life Junior had, and the pressure to do what they wish for. I really liked this book and I hope I can read some more of Sherman Alexie's books.
Sealed with a Kiss by Carly Phillips
This was the sequel book to "Cross My Heart" by Carly Phillips.
This time it focused more on Hunter and Molly. They were the couple that never was. After Molly decided to leave, she wanted to leave Hunter behind and sort things out. meanwhile she finds her real father, a general in war times. But now Molly needs Hunter's help, to free the General accused of murder. While working together to solve the crime, they both let their emotions get the best of them. But in the end, they both tell themselves to walk away, but can they really do it? Carly Phillips did another fantastic job on writing this book, I think she understands both sides between how people feel and what they have to do.
Sleeping Arrangements by Madeleine Wickham
Chloe is sick of making wedding dresses, and her "partner" (not husband) Philip is stressing out about work. What the whole family needs is a vacation. Luckily, Chloe's friend Gerard offers to loan them his villa in Spain.
What they don't know is that Gerard also MAYBE accidentally agreed to loan out his villa on the same date to Hugh, who never has any time for his children, and cold wife Amanda.
When they both arrive at the villa, they're both shocked and angry. Two completely different families that are nothing more than strangers than eachother have to stay in the same villa for the duration of their vacation.
What Chloe's "partner" Philip and Hugh's wife, Amanda, doesnt know is that Chloe and Hugh have a history- they used to be lovers.
I don't think I liked this book very much. It was so cliche, and I felt it was dull. I don't recommend it.
Jeanie N. grade 10
Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood
by Marjane Satrapi
I didn't really think I'd actually read this book, I just noticed it was what the 12th graders were required to read... so i thought I'd just give it a try. After a while, I really started to enjoy the book...alot. Although it was only 160 pages,it was still challenging. I noted the author's use of satire and tried to connect it to the main point of the book.
- This book was a outstanding tale of a girl just trying to live through the Islamic revolution.
Persepolis was an immensely wonderful book. I completed the whole book in one sitting, and my laughter would intermingle with my tears as my fingers flipped through Satrapi's wonderful, creative drawigns. Actually, I think the most captivating thing about Persepolis is the medium - stark black-and-white cartoons. The images are engrossing, and as the story unfolds, you just loose sense of time while reading. As a personal experience... Persepolis really opened my eyess to the prejudice in other countries. Although it is not your typical memoirs with only your imagination to lead you through the writer's experiences, with Persepolis you can really get into the book because Marji leads you through extremely important events in her life leading up to who she is today, like how she had to fight through many negative influences and people in her life. Overall I think this book is phenomenal! I recoomend this to everyone! I also think the school systems should rise their standards for us in younger grades, I'm pretty sure we can handle books like this. Actualy I think it is crucial that we are exsposed to books like this at an earlier age.
-Abiba S 9th
Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood
by Marjane Satrapi
I didn't really think I'd actually read this book, I just noticed it was what the 12th graders were required to read... so i thought I'd just give it a try. After a while, I really started to enjoy the book...alot. Although it was only 160 pages,it was still challenging. I noted the author's use of satire and tried to connect it to the main point of the book.
- This book was a outstanding tale of a girl just trying to live through the Islamic revolution.
Persepolis was an immensely wonderful book. I completed the whole book in one sitting, and my laughter would intermingle with my tears as my fingers flipped through Satrapi's wonderful, creative drawigns. Actually, I think the most captivating thing about Persepolis is the medium - stark black-and-white cartoons. The images are engrossing, and as the story unfolds, you just loose sense of time while reading. As a personal experience... Persepolis really opened my eyess to the prejudice in other countries. Although it is not your typical memoirs with only your imagination to lead you through the writer's experiences, with Persepolis you can really get into the book because Marji leads you through extremely important events in her life leading up to who she is today, like how she had to fight through many negative influences and people in her life. Overall I think this book is phenomenal! I recoomend this to everyone! I also think the school systems should rise their standards for us in younger grades, I'm pretty sure we can handle books like this. Actualy I think it is crucial that we are exsposed to books like this at an earlier age.
-Abiba S 9th
Along for the Ride
by Sarah Dessen
This book is a slow read. Its kind of boring and not very interesting. In the book it's like the same routine and the same thing happens over and over again. It's not entirly bad but it's deffinitaly not the best book i've ever read.However, her novels seem to lack that WOW factor that only comes around every so often. The simple fact is, I'm not going to remember this one for very long. And for that reason, 3 stars is all it gets. (***) <---
Geek High
by Piper Banks
This was an awesome book! There was just something about it that made it such an awsome read! I was looking around at B&N looking for something decent to read. When I saw Geek High, I did what you are never supposed to do, I judged it by its cover. It look cool so i picked it. After reading it, It was SO much better than I even exspected! There was never a boring part in this book! Everytime I put the book down for a second I quickly retrived it beacuse I just could'nt wait to find out what happened next! Anyway, this is a good book and is funny too!! [kinda like two for one package!] I myself am currently about to start Piper Bank's next novel called Geek Abroad! I am pretty sure all of the same characters are in this sequel, except Miranda goes to London to see Sadie (Her Mom) and that is where it takes place! Excited to read it!
-Abiba S 9th
(..read this book.. you know you want to!!)
Fallen Skies by Philippa Gregory
Philippa Gregory wrote The Other Boleyn Girl, one of my most favorite books, so I knew that this one would be amazing as well. I absolutely, completely LOVED it. I recommend it to everyone, of all ages. It was a book impossible to put down. I just finished it, and I'm still reeling from how amazing it was. It takes place in post-World War I England. Lily, an aspiring singer, loses her mother and in her grief, agrees to marry Stephen, a wealthy war hero that she doesn't even like. He had been courting her for a while- she made him forget about the war and he desired her very much. After marrying him, Lily finds that Stephen has nightmares of the war. Lily moves into his house to find his stiff mother, and his paralyzed , "half dead" father. She hates her life with Stephen, who is abusive and stiff also (I really disliked him). I don't want to say no more! EVERYONE GO READ THIS BOOK NOW!
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Sex and the City by Candace Brushnell
I thought this book would be something like the it's T.V. series counterpart- funny, witty, entertaining. But it wasn't! I was really disappointed. It was so boring! I was hoping to read about Carrie and her friends' crazy lives and relationships. It didn't really have a plot- it was just basically reading a bunch of Carrie's articles about different relationships and people she had encountered. It started off alright, and it got worse. Two stars?
Jeanie N. Grade 10
That Summer
by Sarah Dessen
In life, sometimes it takes the longest time to connect with someone you really love. Last Summer, by Sarah Dessen is a great story about a girl named Haven who felt as if she was alone in the world with no guidance. Not until the end of the book when she is taken by surprise and suddenly is on the same page of life as her sister Ashley, who has always, been one step ahead. Last Summer took place in a suburban town in the United States around the 1980's to 1999. Sumner Lee was an unforgettable guy in both Haven and Ashley's life. When Ashley began dating Sumner he changed their family forever. He made everyone laugh and take in the joy of life. The relationship Ashley had with Sumner lasted longer than any other one she shared with other boys. One night though, it all came to an end. Haven never did forget about Sumner though, and then about two years after they had broken up, Haven ran into Sumner. It was like god wanted this to happen, Haven had just began to feel alone in this world and then someone from the past appeared out of no where to help her. Dessen made this book so delightful by adding a lot of detail to the main events, and lots of background information. I would totally recommend this book to any girl; I thoroughly enjoyed it and made many connections to it. Last Summer is a read I will probably never forget...What can i say?! ?.... ce livre était juste stupéfiant!
-Abiba S 9th
I'd Tell You I Love You, but Then I'd Have to Kill You (Gallagher Girls Series #1)
by Ally Carter
Even though its not a hard read its still a good book.I think this book is really fun. It is definitely a different take on the whole teenage/school book scene than nearly all of the rest of them. I like the way she writes these and her books keep my interest. Well, for the most part, there are a couple of very small segments that are dragged out a bit, but overall they are an enjoyable, fun, cute, funny read. I'd recommend the series to my friends if they hadn't already read them :)
-Abiba S 9th
Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy (Gallagher Girls Series #2)
by Ally Carter
In Ally Carter'ss book Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy,, the author tells the story of Cammie Morgan a 16 year old, sophomore spy. Told from Cammie's point of view-Cammie realizes that her mother 'the headmistress of Gallagher Academy for Young Women- young spy women' is hiding something from her. But is she prepared to learn that the secret is another spy school for boys and that those boys are coming to her school? This book is perfect for teenage girls who love to spy. The events of the story make sense but are not too easy to follow 'especially if you¿re not a spy!' The content gets somewhat confusing when the author tells about the missions the characters go on. Other than those few times, the story is quite easy to follow. This book is great for middle aged teen girls because the content is something middle aged teens are more likely to understand. The story contains Cammie getting over her previous break-up from the first book, as this is the sequel of the series. Any girl that enjoys spying, adventure and romance with enjoy this book immensely. The romance and adventure will probably appeal to those who do not have aspirations to be a spy. Although you may want to read the first book first if you want to understand what the characters are talking about!
-Abiba S 9th
I Am America (And So Can You!) By Stephen Colbert
I was REALLY looking forward to reading this book (I've never watched the Colbert Report, but I've heard it's really funny) because it looks really funny. And people on Shelfari were raving about it. The cover is funny- there's a picture of Stephen Colbert making a funny face, and this book received "The Stephen Colbert Award" (haha). I don't know if I really liked the book itself. I can tell Mr. Colbert is a really funny person- there were parts in the book that made me giggle for like 2 minutes. This book was basically just a book about his opinions, from religion, to family, to sex and dating. But I felt it was a bit of a drag.
Here's a funny quote from the book that made me laugh: "America used to live by the motto 'Father Knows Best.' Now we're lucky if 'Father Knows He Has Children.'"
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Best Friends Forever
by Jennifer Weiner
I've read most of Jennifer Weiner's books, and from the beginning I fell in love with her witty and style and her ability to make me laugh at the realities in our lives that are so funny but true. I finished this book a couple days ago , and I have to say, this book is soo deffinetly not chick-lit. While the main characters of Addie and Val are woman and have a few crazy, mad-cap adventures, it is so much more... It is the story of their childhood, the good and the bad, the story of a tragedy that drove them apart as friends and what it took to bring them back. At first glance we see Addie as the sad and left behind friend in this book, but we learn so much more. Just because Val is on TV she isn't nearly as together as she appears. Each woman has grown and and had heartbreak, and we learn that the friendship they once had, has helped them to grow, and to come back together. You will laugh, and cry as you read this book. Rush out and buy it,this book will make you want to call your best friend and thank her for being there for you........I know it's how I felt. I'm giving this book a 5 out of 5 stars........I just loved it!!!
-Abiba S,9th
The Time Traveler's Wife
by Audrey Niffenegger
The love story between a time traveling librarian and his stay-at-home (and in the current time) wife is a great and unique concept. The idea of their love surviving such particular odds keeps the reader engaged, and at the start of the book, it was a definite page-turner. I couldn't put it down (which was good because I was stuck on an airplane 30,000 feet in the air with about 5 hours of the flight to go). But as the story continued, my opinion of the book changed. There were parts of the book that bored me. Paragraphs that went on that told nothing of the story; that just seemed like page fillers (which the book didn't need considering it's already over 500 pages long). The characters of Clare and Henry seemed to meld, sometimes making it hard to differentiate between the two. I had to turn back pages sometimes to see which one happened to be talking. Other characters were depressing: Gomez with his unrequited love, Lucille with her bipolar disorder, Ingrid and her suicide attempts. Happiness was definitely not an emotion intertwined with this story. The twist at the end was a good way to tie it all together, but was also a bit predictable. You see the scene when Clare is 13 close to the beginning of the book...then it's just a matter of time for it to turn up again at the end. And was it really necessary? You slog through the other dismal parts of the book, to not be relieved at the end-- all these attempts at happiness are thwarted every which way. When I bought this book from the bookstore, the clerk was excited. "Oh," she gasped. "That is SUCH a good book, you are really going to enjoy it." On the plane, my seat neighbor exclaimed, "Oh, I love that book." Even on the train riding to work a fellow passenger commented on how much she loved reading this intriguing story. So maybe all of those comments jinxed my own perusal. Or maybe I just expected too much out of it. Or maybe I just enjoy happy endings too much to get anything out of this book. But it's definitely not at the top of my favorites list.
-Emily B. 9th
The Time Traveler's Wife
by Audrey Niffenegger
This book is one of the most imaginative books I've ever read. It's definitely an unconventional love story. Although I was a bit confused with the writing at first, as I couldn't decipher exactly what point in time I was reading about, but as soon as I got into the book (1 or 2 chapters), I loved it and couldn't put it down. It's hard to adjust between the different 'worlds' of time, but such an excellent story with very lovable characters. I loved how Niffeneger approached the relationship between Clare & Henry; a lot of women can relate to her story, minus the time traveling husband. Don't think twice about getting this book, just get it ! It is that good. I was very moved by the love story, it didn't seem too unreal at all.
4 stars!! (****)
-Abiba S. 9th
Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult
I found this book absolutely amazing, and hard to put down. Shay is about to get put to death because he allegedly murdered June Nealon's husband, a cop, and daughter. Shay does not object to being put to death, he just asks for one thing- that is killed in a way that would allow for him to donate his heart to June Nealon's daughter. In jail though, weird things happen. For example, the water in their plumbing turn to wine! And a small bit of gum that Shay happens to acquire is enough for seven men! And Shay keeps repeating words from an old gospel that even the most devout of Christians are not familiar with. People start questioning and hoping- is he Jesus? Is he the Messiah?
Absolutely gripping book.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul on Love & Friendship by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Kimberly Kirberger
These books are rather sappy and repetitive, but for some reason, I really like reading them. I've read a good share of them. This one was just as sappy as the rest of them, but I enjoyed it. The title tells it all- it's just a bunch of stories about teenagers and their loves and friendships. The authors of the stories write essays that readers can relate to. I don't necessarily love these books but they're nice to read.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
No Body's Perfect: Stories by Teens about Body Image, Self-Acceptance, and the Search for Identity by Kimberly Kirberger
I didn't really like this story. I know that all books about feelings and self-acceptance and stuff (like the Chicken Soup books) are ridiculously sappy, but I think this one takes the cake. This book contained many stories about girls that were fat and girls who thought they were ugly... I found it boring and cliche. AND SAPPY.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Chocolate for a Teen's Soul : Lifechanging Stories For Young Women About Growing Wise And Growing Strong by Kay Allenbaugh
Maybe I should stop reading books like this. I prefer the Chicken Soup books to this because this one was... more mature? More serious? The Chicken Soup books are written by younger people, whereas, that's not the case in this book. I didn't like it very much.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
I Am Legend by Richard Matheson
Maybe I should've read the book before I saw the movie. I think that because I watched the movie first, I had an image in my head already, and certain expectations for the book. I found that I didn't like this book very much at all. It was very different from the movie.
This book is about Robert Neville, the only human man left in a world where everyone has turned into a vampire.
If you haven't watched the movie yet, then you might like this book.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
DramaCon (book 1) by Svetlana Chmakova
It's Christie's first anime convention. She's the writer of a manga that she and her artist boyfriend are working on, and they're there to promote it. Naturally, she's excited. But things start to turn out bad. Her boyfriend is being a jerk- he flirts with every girl there. And then she meets Matt, a mysterious cosplayer, who always wear sunglasses (turns out he only has one functioning eye) and she falls in love. Which is a bit of an issue because they live hundreds of miles apart...
This was a really FUNNY manga.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
DramaCon (Book 2) by Svetlana Chmakova
I didn't love this one as much as the first, but it's still really good!
Back at the anime convention! Christie brings with her a new artist. And Matt brings with him... a new girlfriend?!
Read it!
Jeanie N. Grade 10
DramaCon (Book 3) by Svetlana Chmakova
The first one of this series is still my favorite one!
Christie's artist, Bethany, is really nervous about her mom coming to the anime convention to see her work (her mom does not support her love of art, and wants her to get a "real" job). And it's as though fate is trying to keep Matt and Christie apart- they keep getting interrupted!
I wish this manga series was much longer!
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
The last time I read this book was... a year or so ago?
I saw it at the library and decided that I need to re-read it.
Melinda is having a horrible first year at high school. All because she called the cops at a party that summer. Everyone harrasses her and she is treated like an outcast, but no one takes the time to find out WHY she called the police. Throughout the whole book, Melinda is quiet and scared, almost mute. Turns out she was raped at that party.
I really love this book. It's so powerful.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy by: Douglas Adams
This book is about Earth, no, not the good things about Earth, but the destruction of it. It's destruction 5 minutes before its necessary program is completed and seconds before one lady makes the call to end all the suffering. Arthur Dent, the main character, wakes up rather cantankerous one morning. Then he saw the bulldozers outside and remembered what he was cantankerous about. His house was going to be demolished. He then got a sudden urge to lay in front of the bulldozers. Then his friend, Ford Prefect, comes and tells him to come with him to the nearest pub. Promising his house will not be demolished. A couple of pints later, Arthur realized his house has been demolished. However, before he can do anything about it every reflective surface on Earth suddenly broadcasts. They broadcast a hideous alien saying that their planet was to be demolished for an intergalactic bypass and the plans had been up at Alpha Centauri for 5 basic years. Now Aurthur hitches a ride on his friend Ford, who in turn Hitches a ride on the vogon ship. This story tells of their adventures. Along the way they meet Trillian, another Earth girl, and Zaphod Beeblebrox.
I highly reccomend this book to everyone who has a good sense of humor.
Going Too Far
by Jennifer Echols
Jennifer Echols, has such an astonishing way with words! I found so many beautifully written passages in this novel. Her descriptions of the characters and setting go beyond physical descriptions, and I found myself connecting to each mentally and emotionally. Meg is such a raw character. She is full of rage and hurt, yet is so beautifully vulnerable that I found myself cheering for her and hoping that her story would end happily. Her transformation is inspiring and she is the perfect example as to why we should never judge a book by its cover--because she is so much more than what her hard exterior would have you believe. John, on the other hand, comes across as this cookie cutter gentlemen, which he is! But again, he is more than meets the eye--sensitive, intelligent, fun, but hard to put your finger on. His complexity makes him intriguing and I couldn't put the book down because I wanted so much to find out what would become of John's future. Jennifer Echols has awed me with this amazing story of second chances, forgiveness, and love.
Being Nikki
by Meg Cabot
This second installment of the Airhead series was very different than Airhead. There is alot happening behind the scenes in this book.In Airhead, the readers learned how Emerson "Em" Watts became Nikki Howard. In Being Nikki, we learn more about Nikki's personal life. The story centers around Em adjusting to Nikki's high-profile lifestyle while balancing her school work, family and trying to be friends with Christopher. When a mysterious stranger shows up at her Manhattan loft unexpectedly, the story takes off and the mystery begins. I have to admit, I thought Being Nikki was much better than Airhead. Airhead was too repetitive for me. In Being Nikki, Ms. Cabot did a quick recap and immediately jumped into the storyline. At times, the plot was predictable, however Ms. Cabot did end the book with a great cliff hanger. Still, its a good read for the summer and I'm looking forward to the third book in this series, Runaway. 4.5 Stars
_Abiba S 9th
Lucky T
by Kate Brian
Dodging cracks on the side-walk, never opening an umbrella inside a building, and never walking under a ladder has become natural to Carrie because she is very Very Superstitious. She does all that to avoid bad luck. Maybe that is why she treasures her red t-shirt. Carrie received the lucky T in the 3rd grade and has kept it ever since because once she put it one a series of fortunate events happened to her. Her good luck quickly changed to bad luck when her mother accidentally gave her T-shirt to charity. Not that big of a deal, right? Wrong because the donations are going to India! When Carrie learns this bit of info, she freaks because her good luck is gone and everything's going wrong. Instantly she is buying a plane ticket to India and planning her trip. Carrie suspects that she will began searching right away and continue looking until she finds it. Wrong again, because the good looks and kind notions of Dee, a boy that grew up in India, distract her. Will she ever find her Lucky T? Will it matter? I absolutely loved this book. Not only was it funny, but I could not put it down. It started out slowly and took awhile to get started. However, once it started going it was incredible! I liked be able to see some of India's culture. If you are looking for an interesting, entertaining, and funny book, the Lucky T is for you.
-Abiba S 9th
Three Cups of Tea:
by Greg Mortenson, David Oliver Relin
I normally read fiction novels like J.k Rowling, Kate Brian, Lisi Harrison and Robin Wasserman. And quite honestly when my mom gave me this book to read I tossed it aside thinking to myself "yeah right, I don't think I'll enjoy this book!". But for some unknown reason I decided to give this book a chance, and I am certainly glad I did. I, like many other Americans, was virtually uneducated about countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan and I now have a greater appreciation for the value of my life in the U.S. and am humbled as well. This book really sheds light on humanity, not only of the American people but mainly the humanity of the Afghan and Pakistani people! Before reading this book, I must say that not only was I fairly uneducated about the Afghan and Pakistani people I had to come to terms with myself that I was also ignorant of these wonderful people. Reading this book has taken me through many emotions in just 331 pages, including shock, anger, horror, grief, inspiration, joy and above all the hope for peace. I am the extreme optimist and so I must say that I believe that education is the key to peace around the world. Greg Mortenson isnow my hero !and I am grateful that he shared his remarkable story. I cannot wait to get the childrens version of this book so that I can share this story with my little nieghbors and teach them what wonderful things we as humans are capable of in this short life we are given on this beautiful amazing fantastic earth!(p.s yeah, i know i really milked that last sentence with all the stuff about our "beau-tiful earth" hah
-Abiba S 9th
The Host
by Stephenie Meyer
I was expecting more when i picked up yet another book by stephenie meyer.The plot of The Host was alright, but it wasn't executed nicely. It dragged on horribly, and the way it was written was completely different from the authors previous endeavor (Twilight). I was so confused with this book, that i contacted the author by means of email, and tried to make HER explain what she was trying to do here with this book. I mean, it wasnt terrible but for a 600+ page book, you'd think she'd fill up the room with info not rubbish background onfo we really really DONT want to read. As a response to my email Meyer wrote things like "i want the readers to challenge themselves and imagine what is going to happen as they flip through the pages.." I think she just wanted us to basicaly create the book in our heads ourselves beacuse she couldnt do it. The only challenge I had with this book was keeping myself awake long enough to finsh it. I've never spent so much time with a book before! Towards the end I found myself skipping a lot of needless verbiage just to finish it. I personally, failed to connect with the characters however I thought the general premise was entertaining. I really really wanted to like this book but unfortunately, it was anticlimactic.
-Abiba S 9th
:(
Big Boned by Meg Cabot
Another great book by Meg Cabot- she's so excellent. Heather Wells, ex pop-star but now Assistant Dormitory Director, is finally getting a stable life. Things are finally working out for her. She is with a great guy and she's happy. And then she finds her new boss dead in his office. Another murder for her to solve!
Jeanie N. Grade 10
World War Z by Max Brooks
I'm not exactly sure if I really enjoyed this book. This book is "an oral history of the zombie war." A virus that makes people turn into the living dead takes over the world, and a war starts. This book is told by many people who witnessed and was involved in the war. There were some parts of it that I liked, but overall, it was really confusing and difficult. This book is not that long, but it was hard for me, so it took a lot longer than it should have- I didn't really want to finish it, but I kept going anyways. It was a hard book for me because there were many, many allusions to political things. This book was more about the affect of the Zombie war on politics, government, money... things I'm not very familiar with.
So therefore, I didn't really enjoy it.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Lucky by Alice Sebold
This was a beautiful, sad memoir by Alice Sebold. When Alice was eighteen, she was raped, and that's what this book was about. She writes about her rape, in frightening detail, and how it affected her and everyone else around her. She writes about how she helped secure her rapist's arrest.
I thought it was very inspirational and beautifully written.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris
I love David Sedaris (this is Mr. Austin's doing). He's absolutely hilarious and all his essays are unique and entertaining. This book is just a series of autobiographical essays about his life, family, travels, work... And they're all funny!
I highly recommend ANY of his books!
Jeanie N. Grade 10
I Was Told There'd Be Cake by Sloane Crosley
I did laugh out loud a couple times while reading this, but I didn't love it. Similar to David Sedaris's books, this book is a series of autobiographical essays. However, I prefer David Sedaris. Sloane Crosley does have a fresh, entertaining voice but it was just... "blah" compared to David Sedaris. There were only a few essays she wrote that I liked.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Let's Get Lost by Sarra Manning
Isabel used to be bullied. And her mom dies abruptly. So going into highschool, she vows that she will never let anyone walk over her, never let anything hurt her. Her "friends" don't even like her that much, they're too scared of her. She isn't close to her family. She has a quick temper and very unlikable. I didn't like her so much- she tried to be "cool" all the time. But then she meets Smith, and she starts to "lose her cool" even though she tries to sustain it, which leads to consequences.
The first time I read it in the seventh grade, I loved it. When I reread it the other night, I didn't love it so much. I thought it was written poorly, in a way that it was not that exciting or interesting. It was simply okay- 2 stars.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Queen of Babble Gets Hitched by Meg Cabot
The third book in the Queen of Babble series. I read the first two a while ago, so going into this book, I was a bit confused sometimes because I don't exactly recall what happened in the first two.
Anyways- this book was really good and funny. Lizzie Nichols is "the Queen of Babble" because she can't shut her mouth. She can't keep secrets. In this book, Lizzie Nichols's career as a wedding gown restoration expert is taking off and raking in a lot of money. And the man of her dreams- gorgeous and smart- just proposed to her. Everything should be perfect for her, right?
No. Because every time she thinks about getting married to perfect Luke, she breaks out into hives. And she realizes that she's actually in love with his un-perfect, amazing best friend, Chaz.
You'd think this would be a lame novel, but it's really not!
ALL Meg Cabot novels are amazing!
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Blood Promise (Vampire Academy Series #4)
by Richelle Mead
I loved Richelle Mead's series of The Vampire Academy!! It kept me on my toes wanting more! I cried, laughed, and felt the emotions throughout the books. I am definetly looking forward to the fourth book! I fell in love with the characters. Rose Hathaway, is so strong and such a badass! Dimitri Belikov, I was confused about until the end of the third book! During their love scene and after :) i am looking forward to the exciting events that will follow in the 5th book and i do not know how Rose will be able to kill the man she loves?
weird huh?
-Abiba S 9th
Waiting for You
by Susane Colasanti
This wasn't one of my top favorites. I was quite disappointed with this one ,actually . The story needs substance and excitement. I do agree that it has a very realistic point of view, but the story line is so typical. Girl has a crush on popular surfer boy who ignores the geeky nice guy who has liked her for quite some time and then the girl eventually notices the geek who she refused to give attention to at the beginning. it's the usual plot, I felt like i've read stories like this one too many times. I fell asleep just reading the second chapter. I think Colasanti could have placed a stronger emphasis on the relationship between Nash and Marisa because I truly wanted read about an unpredictable connection between them and about how their bond can grow and change within time. Instead, it was much too dense. Personally, I thought "when it happens" was a wayy better read.
-Abiba S 9th
Crank
by Ellen Hopkins
CRANK,a exciting book that compels the existence of drugs in society even among those who are of the the socially elite breed. this book should be recommended to teenagers by their parents and mentors to be read due to the topics that are plotted through out ever day life. Topics such as drug addiction, rape, and teen pregnancy. By reading and discussing this book teens and adults can work together to prevent the inevitable. Drug addiction is preventable but only as long knowledge is passed on. I recommend this book as a good read but also as an eye opener.
The Truth about Forever
by Sarah Dessen
I loved this book for many different specific reasons.; one was the realism of the story and how common this story is true. what captured me was macy's realtionship with jason. the stuggle to be perfect for him comes back throughout the book and it makes macy a very real person because it isnt uncommen in todays society. what makes this story more real, to me is the stuggle to be perfect for her mother as well. this is a good summer read and i would recommened it as a pool side read as well as just for fun. it was one of of my favorite sarah dessen novels.
-Abiba S 9th
The Truth about Forever
by Sarah Dessen
I loved this book for many different specific reasons.; one was the realism of the story and how common this story is true. what captured me was macy's realtionship with jason. the stuggle to be perfect for him comes back throughout the book and it makes macy a very real person because it isnt uncommen in todays society. what makes this story more real, to me is the stuggle to be perfect for her mother as well. this is a good summer read and i would recommened it as a pool side read as well as just for fun. it was one of of my favorite sarah dessen novels.
-Abiba S 9th
Specials
by Scott Westerfeld
This third book in the UGLIES SERIES is absolutely phanominal!!! It's filled with action, betrayal, heart-break, and new beginings. Along with some old ones. In this section of the series, Tally has become a Special, a "Scary Pretty", whom works for Dr. Cable in the Special Curcumstances unit. Tally is one of Dr.Cable's "Special" Specials, in a group called the Cutters. The Cutters are teen Specials who track down Smokies that come into New Pretty Town to give pills called "The Cure" to newly operated on Pretties. But when Tally finds out that one of the inrtuding Smokies is David, old memories rise to the surface. Now, Tally and her fellow Cutters, led by Shay, are planning to track down the New Smokies secret place.
-Abiba S 9th
Uglies
by Scott Westerfeld,
The whole Uglies series in general is an amazing,very quick read. All three (and the new Extras book) are really good and worth the money, and rereading. Uglies is the first book, and immediately one can fall in love with Tally and the whole plot. I'm rereading the whole series again right now and it is very worth my time. I'm sure you could read this in 2hourse max. very quick read but good. It would be utter morbid not to read at least 2 of these installments a daY!!!Everyone MUST read this series!! Scott Westerfeld is an awesome writer!!
-Abiba S 9th
Pretties
by Scott Westerfeld
I think this book fully explains what happened to Tally after Uglies ended. Tally finally is pretty! She loves the nonstop-parties.... and this new guy named Zane. In Uglies, David was her love interest but when Zane comes in, it all changes. Tally gets a memory from her past and realizes why shes here and gogeuse. She trys to forget but she can't. She must fufill what she was made into a pretty for. I recommend for 10-14 year olds. Moms could read it too but it will be kinda creppy! I think that this seriesis good! However I'm starting to think its a bit super-ficial.
-Abiba S 9th
Stargirl
by Jerry Spinelli
Book Review of Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli She was an elusive read . She was today. She was tomorrow. She was the faintest scent of a cactus flower, the flitting shadow of an elf owl. We did not know what to make of her. In our minds we tried to pin her to corkboard like a butterfly, but the pin merely went through and away she flew. We all know how hard it is to start a new school, let alone be the weirdest kid in the town. In Jerry Spinelli's Stargirl, when Stargirl firsts comes to Mica High she doesn't fit in at all with the other students. She sings to them on their birthdays, she plays the ukulele, and has a pet rat! Soon everyone starts hating on her. Everyone but Leo Borlock. Stargirl and Leo have a very interesting and compelling relationship. It is different from your everyday fairytale. It is full with warmth, and love. Stargirl, with over 8 awards won, is an uplifting and powerful story that is great for all readers. A book filled with hope, passion, and love, Spinelli has yet again created a marvelous piece of work. Bravo!.. or shall I say,Brava!
-Abiba S 9th
A Wrinkle in Time
by Madeleine L'Engle
Funny story, maybe even dumb and silly, thing about me and this book is I've never heard about it until a few days ago. I heard it was one of Joe Jona's fav books so i decided to reading it.. yeah i know corny and dumb..oh well. ha
anyways about the book.....
It just didn't do anything for me!!!, to be honest. Did I think it was an awesome story? Yes. And even more, it teaches a very valuable lesson that I think everyone should learn. Was it well-written? Of course. But this 132-page book took me wayy to long finish, simply because each time I picked it up and started to read another chapter, I quickly lost interest. I would find myself losing track of what was occuring in the novel and instead paying attention to my own surroundings. Isn't is supposed to be the other way around? Bottom line: A Wrinkle in Time just wasn't my cup of tea.
Sorry Joe Jonas(ha) !!!!!
-Abiba S 9th
The Story Sisters
by Alice Hoffman
In this book Alice Hoffman weaves an imaginative story. Elv, Meg and Clare are wonderful characters, distinctive in their own stories as they grow up. Elv and Clare are forever bonded by something terrible that happens which cause Elv to pull apart from her family which seems to be the only way she can deal with it. Hoffman is trully a wonderful writer in that she is able to weave a mystical quality into her stories. Happy ending don't always happen no matter how much you want them to. I also loved how the grandmother is the hero as all grandmother's show grace and patience through their experience. This was a great book and I reccomend it to anyone who is a Hoffman fan. It will not disappoint.
-Abiba S 9th
Changing Faces by Kimberla Lawson Rody
This book is about three girls who are in a mid life crisis. Whitney plans on going to her highschool reunion. But she feels uncomfortable with her body so she wants to lose 40 in 2 months. Before she started her diet, she meet this guy Rico that helps her train and work out. Then theres Whitney's friend Taylor who's life is off track. Her marriage is going down hill and her kids aren't even trying to make their relationship with thier mother work. The last friend is Charrise who is dating someone for a very long time now but he isn't commit to her as she is to him. So when she visits the doctor after one of her disputes with him, she gets the worst news of her life that changes her relationship.
Paradise Lost (Private Series
Kate Brian
This book was... so amazing, emotional, and unforgettable. All the books i read before paradise lost were what i called amazing, but as i started reading this one it simply took over my heart and i coudlnt stop reading it. Paradise Lost is a book that will make you feel as if you were really living it. It will make you cry... but all of the private series made me cry. I do wish there was more of Josh....but as i kept reading i was hoping that reed and this Upton guy would become romantically involved but the one thing Kate Brian needs to do is come out with another book to follow this one because it ends with you wanting more and more. I hope this was helpful and i do wish kate brian would cone out with another book in the series. So Abiba, you read this book too ,cool, do you know if REED died? I didnt understand the end,so this is the last book in the series?
-Emily B 9th
Claymore (Book 2) by Norihiro Yagi
Compared to the first one, this one was a bit of a disappointment, in my opinion. The graphics are still cool, but the plot and action in this one was much slower. Clare and Raki travel to Rabona. A Yoma (disguised monster that feeds on the insides of humans) has been killing people in a cathedral. It is up to Clare to find out who that Yoma is disguised as.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Angus,thongs and full-frontal snogging By Louise Rennison
I found this book very hilarious and interesting. this book is about Georgia's confessions and how she goes through life as a teanager. Georgia lives in england so her vocabulary is very diffrent from ours and funny at times. I deffently recommend this book to others because i think that you will find it funny and weird and its a great book to take an ege off things.
Sanela D, grade 9
Replying to Emily B.
hey, i saw my name in your comment so im replying. (sorry Mrs.T) i know this is for books summaries only....
anyways, emily, yeah i dont think REED died beacusei heard there is going to be another book in the private series... humm but i think Poppy pushed REED off the boat ..what do you think?
On the bright side,i'm now the girlfriend of a sex god By Louise Rennison
This is the 2nd book. In this Book Georgia finally convinced this hot older boy Rob for short that she is not too young for him and becomes his girlfriend.This book is full of fun and you relize what some girls would do to impress guys like in georgias case find intrest in buddaha.
sanela D. grade 9
Knocked out by my nunga-nungas By Louise Rennison
This is the third book to the series of coffessions of georgia nicolson. This book was like the other ones i read so far, it was funny and diffrent. Georgia is just liveing her life exploreing new things and haveing fun with her bestfriend jas and walking her cat angus and haveing fun snogging{kissing} with her new boyfriend the sex god as she calles him. VERY FUNNY!
Sanela D. Grade 9
Danceing in my nuddy-pants By Louise Rennison
I just finished this book about 2 days ago and i really liked it. This was the 4th book and in this book just when everything starts getting to normal her class is going to paris for a feild trip and angus gets a cat pregnat and she starts haveing feelings for her ex. But after all this she still is funny and calm about all of it!
sanela D. grade 9
New Moon By Sephanie Meyer
I loved this book just like the first one. It was interesting and i could not put it down because i kept on wanting to know what was going on with everybody.Also it was very exciteing on how bella kept on take chances and risking her life just to be alittle bit closer to edward. I just loved it and i hope that the rest of the books are like this and even better.
Sanela D.
Privilege By kate Brian
I loved the private series by kate and i am sure that i am ganna love this one by her. Privilege is about ariana the quite girl that everyone thought she was but no one know what she can do very easyily with out a thought this book is about her getting a second chance at her life, not earning it but getting it from someone else! i love this book and i loved the 2nd one to but thats for another time!
Sanela D.
Beautiful Disaster (Privilege series] By Kate Brian
When you think that after all the work ariana went through to get her life back to start all over that she would learn to not make the same mistake she did in the first place..kill people that she thought deserved to die, in a strange way i do like ariana but i think shes the one who desreves to die. {ahaha.lol} but this book was good and i could not put it down because i kept on wanting to know if anyone would figure out that ariana was never dead that she is there alonge pertending to be someone else.READ THIS!
Sanela D.
Twilight By:Sephanie Meyer
This book was just lovely. It was just one of those books that you can't put down. I loved this book because it had a little twist to it, like just when you think everything is normal its not, of course there nothing normal about your boyfriend being a vampire but yeah it was great and i just loved the end when bella found out that her mother was fine and that it was a trick. well thats enough details..how about you read it and tell me what you think because i am sure you will love it!!!
Sanela D.
New Moon By:Sephanie Meyer
I Think i like twilight better because well it had more stuff going on and this book was kinda you know those kinds when you have to wait and wait till the end to make sence, but well thats just me. I still like the book alot and could not put it down! My Favriot part was when bella kept on takeing risks just so she can get closer to edward.
Sanela D.
Replying to Abiba S
YEAH!!! duh, why didnt i think of that?lol, yeah i think Poppy did push REED off the boat.
(um,sorry mrs.t)i didnt know it was JUST for book summaries
-Emily B
Thirteen Reasons Why
by Jay Asher
The topic of death has seemingly always been quietly, eerily popular with most teens. It doesn't really seem like a surprise, then, that 13 Reasons Why has become as reknown as it has. It has characters teens can relate to, mystery, suspense, heartbreak, and that chilling, lingering feeling of What Could I Have Done? What If? But the book rubbed me the wrong way when I read it. Be it the wimpy protagonist or the subject of the book herself, the teenager who killed herself and send casettes to people she once knew. The idea itself seemed like such a juvenile thing to do that I almost stopped reading in the first place. Leave it to a stuck up teenaged girl to kill herself - and then blame everyone else. I just found myself thinking, wasn't it bad enough that she had taken her own life? Why would she want to spread her miserable ideas around and make everyone else feel just as worthless as she felt? I'm not saying that the intended idea doesn't hit home - it does. The story is harrowing, the girl was tortured and posthumously berates all those around her. The message of loss and hitting rock bottom was felt. But at the same time, Hannah recording 13 reasons why she killed herself...
That Summer by Sarah Dessen
Sarah Dessen is one of my favorite authors although I feel like all her books are very similar, with the same template basically. Like Abiba said in one of posts, there's no "Wow Factor." Yet, she's still one of my favorite authors because despite all of that, I believe that ALL of her books are well-written, and easy and relaxing to read.
I think this is one of her worst books because out of 198 pages, there was really nothing. I don't know how to explain it- I didn't see much of a plot. It was all just... feelings. And even though it was well-written, it was dull.
Haven is fifteen years old, and six feet tall. A lot is going on her life- her dad left her mom to marry a weather lady and her sister, Ashley, is about to get married, so everything's about Ashley and her wedding. Haven keeps wishing that things would go back to the way they were, like during that summer at Virginia Beach, when everything seemed perfect, with both her parents and sister happy, thanks to Sumner, one of Ashley's many boyfriends. I really didn't understand what Sumner had to do with this whole story.
2 stars.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Princess Ai (Ultimate Edition) by Misaho Kujiradou, Courtney Love, and DJ Milky
Simply one of the worst mangas I've ever read. The graphics are actually phenomenal but the plot and subplots were really confusing and pointless. Princess Ai was created as Courtney Love's fantasy alter ego.
Princess Ai finds herself in Tokyo. She doesn't know what she is doing there, she doesn't belong there. So during her journey, she tries to find out why she is there, where she was from... Along the way, she becomes a famous singer.
Waste of twenty dollars.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Response by Paul Volponi
I finished this is one sitting- it was so good. There was none of that pointless embellishing, none of that feely-feely stuff- it was intense, quick and dramatic. Paul Volponi wasted no pages.
Noah is a black "super senior" whose girlfriend just had his baby, a little girl named Destiny Love. Thinking about how to support Destiny Love, he decides, with his friends, to go to Hillsboro, a nearly all-white area, to steal a car. It didn't work out, and after getting pizza, he and his friends get chased by a group of white kids. Armed with a bat, one of them gives Noah a fractured skull, which sparks more tension between black and white people in the area. In court, Noah tries to prove that it was a hate crime, and that the white kids were not acting to "protect" their neighborhood- they didn't even know about Noah and his friends' plan to steal a car.
It's a riveting book. I recommend it to everybody.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Magical Thinking: True Stories by Augusten Burroughs
Like David Sedaris's books, this book is a collection of autobiographical essays. I was hoping for ha-ha funny, and this wasn't it. It was okay; I prefer David Sedaris. I did find a couple that I liked, but none of his stories were that amazing. However, I think that Augusten Burroughs is a great writer, with a good voice.
Three stars?
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
I didn't make the mistake of watching the movie before I read this book luckily. I absolutely loved this book. It was beautiful, beautifully written, wonderful plot and characters. Chiyo/Sayuri is a young girl in a small fishing town, living with her sister, father, and mother, who is dying. Her sister gets sent to a brothel, but because Chiyo is such a pretty girl, with gray eyes that are unnatural for Asians, she is sent to become a geisha.
It's an amazing book. The movie doesn't compare.
Jeanie N. Grade 10
The Babysitter's Club: Kristy's Great Idea by Ann Martin, Graphic Novel by Raina Telgemeier
When I was younger, I devoured the Babysitter's Club series. I had the movie as well and owned several books. So I was really excited to find the first book of my once-favorite series as a graphic novel! It's the same as the original- it's about Kristy coming up with the idea to start the Babysitter's Club. Except, now, we can see the characters and the action and stuff.
I recommend that you recommend it to your younger siblings!
Jeanie N. Grade 10
Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret
by Judy Blume
Okay im 14 years old and honestly i didnt like the book that much. It was a bit to baby-sh for me.
The problem in the story is sooo stupid. I'm sorry for saying this but it's true this book literaly sucked it's #1 on my worst books ever read list. So do not, please i repeat, do not read this book. Even if it's for free don't even bother reading a page. It's the stupidst book of life. DO not waste your money or your time. -the story is about this girl and she moves to this new place and then she wants to get her period so she talks to god so she could get her period and become "cool" and at the end she gets her period. I can't even beieve i read the story through... i only kept on reading because i thought it would get better and i always finish a book no matter how horrible it is. Anyway, it's probably my age the reason i didn't like this book i was 11 when i read it. Maybe 9 or 10 year old will like it.
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