Davis Book Reviews

Book Reviews Spring 2011 Mrs. Davis’ Classes

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS

GENRE: Adventure Fiction

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

a review by Dashiell Carichner 4 out of 5

Treasure Island $17.95

Charles Scriber Sons, 1911, 273pp,

Robert Louis Stevenson ISBN 0-684-17160-0 In Treasure Island, Jim lives in the “ Admiral Benbow,” an Inn that his father owns. People rarely come into the Inn. He is left to ponder his thoughts.

Sometimes he goes down to the docks to see if he can hear sailors recounting their adventures out at sea.

One morning a large gruff-looking, sea-faring man comes into the Inn. He never talks except to ask for rum. In the evening he sits around the fire singing, “ Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum, fifteen men on a dead man’s chest.” When the captain dies of a sudden heart attack, Jim finds that the captain has left behind a chest full of trinkets and coins.

Perhaps the most valuable thing he finds is a treasure map for the captain’s treasure. Jim immediately tries to get a crew and ship to go to the elusive Treasure Island in search of this treasure. Will he find the treasure or end up empty handed?

On his way Jim will encounter buccaneers, smugglers and mutineers. He will have to find out who are his true friends and who are just in it for the treasure.

Robert Louis Stevenson’s book is jam packed with action and suspense.

You will surely be blown away by this amazing adventure of Jim and his quest for treasure. Treasure Island is a page-turner that will make you want to scream for more.

This book is ideal for adventure loving readers. In some sections of the book young readers won’t be able to understand the content of the book because of the use of language.

Overall this book is a thriller beyond compare.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Adventure Fiction

Tales From Watership Down by Richard Adams

a review by Michael Chen 4 out of 5

Tales From Watership Down 335pp, $7.99 Richard Adams

Avon

Books,

1996,

ISBN 978-0-380-72934-0

Did you know that rabbits used to not smell and had to earn the right to do it? Well, The Sense of Smell story will tell you how rabbits got their sense of smell. This is just one of many stories in Tales of Watership Down, the sequel to the loved classic, Watership Down. In this book, Richard Adams, the author, illustrates a whole new view on the stories than the ones told in Watership Down. From traveling in total darkness, wandering aimlessly in a thick forest with a badger, to stealing carrots and running away from dogs and men, these are just a few parts of the nineteen short stories in Tales From Watership Down. All the rabbits in Watership Down return for more adventure and fun and there are even some new characters!

Tales From Watership Down is split into three parts. The first part is about the rabbits telling five traditional stories about the legendary folktale hero El-ahrairah and two other stories. Part two is about four of El-ahrairah and his trusted companion, Rascuttle’s, many adventures when they journey back home from a rabbit called the Black Rabbit of Inlé’s warren. And finally, part three is about Hazel, Fiver, Bigwig, and all the other rabbits of Watership Down’s adventures after the defeat of the evil rabbit, General Woundwort.

I think Richard Adams does an amazing job at telling the stories.

He never leaves a story hanging and draws you into a story almost instantly. He puts a new light on the rabbits and El-ahrairah especially, since he wasn’t a “main” character and just a folktale rabbit in Watership Down. I think Richard couldn’t return the epic lives of the rabbits as he did in Watership Down so that’s why I think he made this book of short stories instead.

When I first read this book, it drew me in instantly and I craved to read more. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone who likes animals (especially rabbits), adventure, and people who like to read short stories instead of long books. Or it is just a great read on its own.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Adventure Fiction

Forbidden Sea by Sheila A. Nielson

a review by Brittany Hutchens 4 out of 5

Forbidden Sea $13.49

Scholastic Press, 2010, 304pp,

Sheila A. Nielson ISBN 978-0545097345

In the book Forbidden Sea, Adri, the main character, is a girl who is a nobody and a loser. Kids pick on her short hair and tattered clothing. When Cicely her sister runs away Adri and here mom start a search party to find her. After a while of looking the search party gives up and Adri sets off alone to find here. Not long after she finds her self cough in a storm on a cliff side on the way to a near beach where Adri herd suspicious singing, she thought it might be her sister so she slipped down the cliff to the soft sand. There she found her sister, seeming to be in a trance by a strange beings singing, it was not a human humming this tune but a mermaid sent to find the one person with a per hart to bring home to the sea prince to get married.

I like this book because it tells of a person who’s has to struggle to survive and when a golden opportunity comes she has a final decision, everything she could ever have, or love.

This book is filled with drama, and struggle. I highly recommend this book to readers who love myths and legends of the deep blue se

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Adventure Fiction

Beastly by Alex Flinn

a review by Anabel Nam 5 out of 5 Beastly 2007,304pp, $8.99 Alex Flinn 978-0-06-087418-6

HarperCollins Publishers Inc., ISBN-13

“I am a beast. Not quite wolf or bear, gorilla or dog, but a horrible new creature that walks upright- a creature with fangs and claws and hair springing from every pore. I am a monster.”

Kyle Kingsbury, the main character, is the guy who everyone wishes they were; he has the looks, the money, “the charm”, and the girls. With the perfect life, he gets everything and anything that he could ever want, but one day in English class, he saw a girl unlike anyone else he had seen in Tuttle High School. Covered with black from head to toe except for her bright green eyes, Kendra Hilferty, the undercover witch, finds that although Kyle may seem pretty nice, it turns out that he’s selfcentered, mean, and takes people only for what they look like. That night is when his life changes and he becomes a monster said to be beastly. With only two years to find true love, Kyle has the ultimate test to make this happen, going to extreme measures to find the one girl who would release him of this curse. He travels around the US, searching for her; but if he does not find her, he will be beastly forever.

Alex Flinn does a fantastic job writing this narrative. Every page I turned was more and more intense and interesting, and it was like the text itself was yelling at me screaming to not put it down and to just keep reading. Flinn’s fantasy shows that it isn’t right to judge a person by their looks, but to try to get to know them, and take them what they are inside. This story is not difficult to concentrate on the main point and it is an entertaining read for young adult readers.

Beastly is filled with exceptional word choice, contains an enthralling story line, and is an astounding classic that will dazzle your mind. Out of all the books that I’ve read; non-fiction, fiction, expository, and narrative, Beastly makes it to the top ten. I would definitely recommend this novel for people who like science fiction, adventure, romance, or fantasy.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Adventure Fiction

Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz

a review by Adam Nowicki 4 out of 5

Stormbreaker Speak,2006,288pp,$7.99 ISBN 978-0142406113 Alex Rider the main character in Stormbreaker is very brave and daring. Being a spy is not very easy and try being only 13 on top of that. After Alex’s uncle passes away he realizes he has no family left. After some exploring he finds that his uncle my not be who he thought he was when he finds bullet holes in his uncle’s car. It turns out Alex’s boring old uncle was really one of the nation’s top spy’s.

When Alex finds this out he then is recruited to also be a spy.

Stormbreaker is a great book in my opinion. This book has a lot of action and also has some mystery. Alex Rider is always in times of trouble and has to always be ready and alert. In some fights he is going up against people three and sometimes ever four times his age.

This story has a lot of action and is fun to read.

Also there are some very cool spy gadgets that MI6 (the spy agency he works for) makes for him. This is a short read but is fast pace. Stormbreaker is very thrilling and I recommend it for all ages.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Stormfront by Jim Butcher

a review by Christopher Combs 5 out of 5 Stormfront 2000, 322p, $9.99

Penguin Putnam,

Jim Butcher ISBN 978-0451457813 In the book Stormfront, Harry Dresden, an epic modern-day wizard living in Chicago, is a private investigator. He’s in the Yellow Pages, listed under, Wizard. However, no one seems to take him seriously, and he’s been living off of ramen noodles for a long time now, it’s the only thing he can afford. The most interesting jobs he gets are from his friend and police officer, Murphy. His blasting rod and his .44 pistol (Yes, he uses a pistol when all else fails) are collecting dust, and he hasn’t had to call on Bob, his talking skull, but when he gets a call about a nasty curse killing seemingly random people, his life gets crazy again.

Then, when he investigates the last scene with his police friend, Murphy, they discover that Harry is next on the list. Harry has to work fast to discover the perpetrator and to survive while snooping around, making deals with Demons and Fairies. He has to stay ahead of everyone else to survive. Harry must learn the streets of “Magical Chicago” and gain allies who aren’t always stable, safe or mortal.

Stormfront was a real page-turner. Jim Butcher has crafted an amazing story with ancient monsters and deadly enemies, like vampires and necromancers that all live in Chicago killing innocent people, while normal people turn the other way to stay happy and ignorant. Harry Dresden makes many spontaneous decisions to stay alive that will shock, surprise, and sometimes make you laugh. There are many unexpected twists and surprises that will keep you guessing and craving more. Jim Butcher spins a tale in Chicago with wizards and monsters and somehow makes it seem believable.

Anyone who loves a good adventure, humorous books, or books with magic and mystery will love this book. Jim Butcher has crafted many witty and different characters. Stormfront is a great book for anyone who wants a good read.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

a review by Kaylee Klepaczyk 5 out of 5 The second Harry Potter turned eleven, and an earthshattering knock shook him to the core, his life was changed forever.

In J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Harry Potter, a boy orphaned at a young age, was forced to live with the wretched Dursleys, his only living relatives.

His life took a dramatic twist when he received a life-altering letter from a half-giant knocking on his door – It just so happened that Hagrid, his new friend, worked at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry where Harry had been accepted to attend school.

In a matter of minutes, he had been introduced to this wonderful world he never knew, and the fact that he, Harry Potter, was a wizard.

After a whirlwind of events, Harry was shipped off to school.

As the year unfolds, he explores his new life, meets friends, makes enemies, and is challenged everyday. But most of all, there was a great destiny that had been waiting for him – because he was the boy who lived.

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is an unforgettably enchanting novel. When reading the book, I was instantly transported to the wizarding world – making it almost impossible to put down.

Rowling gives you the feeling that you are always at Harry’s side, watching his actions and feeling his every emotion.

Following this book is a series of Harry’s seven years at Hogwarts. Each book is thrilling, and the way Rowling writes this fantasy always keeps you on your toes.

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a novel of suspense, humor, and most of all, magic.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is a brilliant bestseller that has, and will continue to, captivate audiences of all ages. This debut novel of J.K. Rowling convinced me that I, too, could take a train to Hogwarts School. Now, if only I could find Platform Nine and Three Quarters….

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Beastly by Alex Flinn

a review by Korbyn Koerner 4 out of 5

Beastly Alex Flinn

HarperCollins Publishers, 2007,304pg, $8.99 ISBN 9780060874186

A rich, popular, attractive teen named Kyle Kingsbury, in the book Beastly, is caught in a dilemma. Kyle must learn that looks and money are not everything. To learn his lesson he is cursed, by an evil witch Kendra. Kyle is transformed into a hideous beast and is told he must find someone who loves him for him or he will be a beast forever. Kyle, with no friends or family to count on, goes through the experience of a lifetime.

The theme, the rose, was used throughout the whole book. I wish it would have never ended; it was hard enough to put down. For example, the corsage in the beginning and the garden in the end, a feather technique like this just couldn’t be ignored.

This book anyone can read, it’s not gender oriented, it is an action packed and it always keeps you guessing. It may be a fairytale twist but with its modern day setting and fast paced style anyone would enjoy it.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Airhead by Meg Cabot

a review by Alyssa Luckhardt 4 out of 5

Airhead Point, 2008, 337pp, $9.99 Meg ISBN 987-0-545-04054-9

Cabot

In the novel Airhead, Emerson Watts, an eleventh grade nobody, finds herself in a life changing accident. Emerson has everything she ever wanted, a best friend and a loving family. Against her will she was forced to go to the Stark Megastore grand opening, with her little sister, Frida. While standing in line for Frida to get Gabriel Luna’s signature, Frida leaves to go get Nikki Howard’s signature. Frida was standing under a falling T.V. Sprinting to shove Frida out of the way, the T.V. topples on Emerson. When she wakes up in the hospital she has no idea why. But does notice notices two things different, her fingers are skinnier and her voice is higher and squeakier. Whatever happened to her she hates it because people are treating her very different.

The truth is what she seeks. Emerson is about to find something out she might not have ever seen coming.

Meg Cabot uses a lot of suspense, and emotion that makes you want to read more and more. In every chapter you uncover why Emerson wakes up and has skinner fingers and a higher voice. And why nobody will tell her what’s going on.

Anyone who likes suspense this book is a must to read. Airhead is a page turner, and will never want to put it down. Your favorite book will now be Airhead.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Blue Bloods by Melissa De La Cruz

a review by Catherine Marchenko 4 out of 5

Schuyler, the main character in Blue Bloods, is certainly not your average teenage girl. Unlike the high maintenance students at Duchesne, Manhattan's top school, she doesn't wear Prada or fuss over what everybody thinks. She roams the hall day to day with Oliver, just her best friend, or so she thinks... Lately as strange as it is a modeling agency along with Jack, the “cool” guy, has been eying her. Her suspicions rise as she realizes Oliver acting a little too nice. On top of all that she eventually gets informed that she is actually not just an ordinary girl but an immortal being, a vampire, or as they like to call it a “blue blood”. She takes Oliver into a blood-sucking quest to learn more about these blue bloods and solve the terrifying mystery of Aggies death, a popular classmate who most likely didn't die from a drug overdose.

Melissa De La Cruz did a great job incorporating thoughts and feeling about all the characters making it feel as though you are them.

As the point of view change from Schuyler to Oliver, Oliver to Jack, you will discover the roller coaster of emotions that flow through their head. Your mind will just twist and turn as the mysteries of each character and event keep changing. Turn each page, one by one, and you will behold a whole new world like never before.

This book ties together real life and historical events with Melissa’s blue blood life. I recommend this to young teens who are in for an exciting thrill, because this book show a glimpse of the crazy vampire life, and takes you on a fanged yet fabulous journey.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

a review by Lillian Minnette 5 out of 5

Artemis Hyperion Books Co., 2009, 304pp, $7.99 Eoin ISBN 978-1423124528

Fowl Colfer

“Stay back, human. You don’t know what you’re dealing with.” These are the words of Holly Short, an elf previously living peacefully in an underground city called Haven. The human in question is Artemis Fowl, notoriously criminal, perfectly ready to topple age-old civilizations and plunge the planet into an inter-species war… …And he is only 12 years old at the time. His motive? Gold. Legend has it that each faerie has its own hoard of gold that is worth more than any human could imagine. Just enough to restore the Fowls’ imperiled coffers. It didn’t matter whom, exactly. He could have kidnapped any faerie, it wouldn’t have mattered. But he had to get the girl. Enter Holly Short, the only female elf on the Lower Elements Police Recon Squad, or LEPrecon for short. After being abducted by Fowl, Holly is spirited away to Fowl Manor in eastern Ireland. Unfortunately for Fowl, along with the aforementioned cache of gold, faeries also carry around a little bag of tricks to wreak havoc and induce mayhem wherever they go, that might just give Fowl a run for his money…Literally.

Colfer sustains his fantasy to a thrilling and unexpected ending. If you are like me, you will pick up this book, not setting it down until you have read every last word. Colfer’s seemingly unorthodox choice of main character will leave you thirsting for more. If you enjoyed Artemis Fowl, then read Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident, its thrilling sequel.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves an intricate plot and deep, humorous characters.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

a review by Brittany Nagel 5 out of 5 Harry Potter: The Sorcerers Stone J.K. Rowling

Scholastic Press, 1997, 309 pp., $19.95 ISBN 0-590-35340-3

Harry Potter’s life in Harry Potter: The Sorcerers Stone by J.K. Rowling, is exactly the opposite of perfect and anything but normal. His parents have died, he lives with his step family, the Dursleys, in a cupboard, and sadly has no friends.

The main character in a story of fantasy, Harry, discovers at eleven he is actually a famous wizard. The first survivor of an attack

by Voldemort, the most powerful dark wizard, makes Harry famous. Of course, the Dursleys would never let him know this. A wizard school called Hogwarts is where Harry becomes a student, and meets his first friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. They help him discover some things he shouldn’t, including secrets about the powerful sorcerers stone, leaving him with a love of wanting to find out more. Although it’s against school rules, Harry and his friends take on the challenge of overcoming many obstacles on their way to find the stone, before Voldemort can. This adventure becomes the ultimate journey into dark tunnels that hold the greatest fears they’ve ever had.

In The Sorcerers Stone, the fantasy and magic is definitely enjoyable. Imagine being trapped, alone, by a rogue troll when nobody can hear you, when suddenly, your best friends burst in saving your life. Events such as when a Hogwarts teacher curses a student, will leave the reader with their jaw dropped. Chapters can also leave the reader wondering what will happen next due to cliff hangers as endings.

This structure I like because it keeps the reader reading more after each chapter. Overall, this novel fascinates me and makes me even feel like I’m there, catching glimpses of Harry’s triumphs and devastations.

I strongly recommend Harry Potter: The Sorcerers Stone, to anybody and everybody with a liking of fantasy and magic. This book is full of suspenseful magic and heart - racing fantasy. It is also an engrossing read, because it has dramatic events, enemies and allies, and leaves the reader always guessing. Once I started reading this tale, I could never put it down, and it left me wondering if I’ll be the next student at Hogwarts.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

The Siren Song by Anne Ursu

a review by Meagan Nielson 5 out of 5

In Anne Ursu's, The Siren Song, Charlotte Mielswetzski is on another astounding journey. This time she must save her parents and everyone on the Isis Queen, a large cruise ship. This started as a normal educational vacation about American History, until it turned into a very unfortunate predicament. Little does she know that the evil Philonecron, an evil demigod and the grandson of the almighty Poseidon, who once tried to take over the underworld. He still seeks revenge from the defeat in the previous book, The Shadow Thieves, since he was sentenced to live in the upperworld by Hades, a very powerful Greek God.

Philonecron manages to get back his Zero, his name for Zachary Miller(Zee). Charlotte ends up saving her cousin, Zee, even if she didn't plan it at the beginning. Charlotte is not alone on this perilous journey. Jason Hart is helping her save her parents and everyone on the Isis Queen, or so she thought he was doing. Well the big question is, does she save her parents and the rest of the people on the cruise ship, or does she fail and meet Poseidon's wrath? Find out in Anne Ursu's, The Siren Song.

I loved this book, it felt as if I were in Charlotte's shoes as she thwarts Philonecron's plans and saves the day. Anne Ursu will take you on an adventure from the dark, ominous underworld, to the blue, clear oceans, to the brilliant Olympus. Ursu relates the now modern world to the magnificent past of the Greek Olympians. She brings the past to the present. If you liked the Percy Jackson Series, you will most likely love the Cronus Chronicles, and its and its adventures with some Greek characters. I know I did, and I was a very big Percy Jackson and the Olympians fan. Read this book. You don't know what you're missing out on!

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Twilight New Moon by Stephenie Meyer

a review by Brooke Opland 4 out of 5

New Moon 547pp, $15.99

Little

Brown

Stephenie Meyer

and

Company,

2006,

ISBN 978-0316-16019-3

Have you ever fallen in love? Have you ever felt like you can’t live without that special someone? This is how Bella feels, but not with a human being, but with a vampire! A young, curious, teenage girl named Bella is in the sequel called, The New Moon. She is the protagonist in the story.

In the first book, she moved to a small town called Forks, and has made many friends as soon as she stepped foot at high school. A year later, Bella and Edward, the dreamy, amazing vampire, are practically a couple.

No one really seemed to talk to Edward except Bella and Edwards’s mysterious siblings, so Bella and Edward turned out to be the “cute couple” of the school. Jacob Black, Bellas old best friend, is starting to fall in love with Bella while Edward leaves her, thinking he’s endangering her but really he makes it worse by deserting her. Bella is slowly falling apart piece by piece, trying to decide weather she should hold onto Edward or move on to Jacob. Who will Bella choose? Will Edward ever come back?

Stephenie Meyer creates a story where every paragraph leaves you wanting to read more. She has amazing characters with breath-taking personalities. Read as Bella’s life changes dramatically while the years pass by.

Readers who love dramatic, romance Meyers, Twilight series, The New Moon.

novels

will

really

enjoy

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Wish by Alexandra Bullen

a review by Jordan Page 5 out of 5

Wish Bullen

Alloy

Entertainment, 2010, 323pp, ISBN 978-0-545-13906-9

$9.99

Alexandra

One tragedy, two sisters, three wishes that will change everything.

Olivia Larson, a girl who is shy and quiet, has been living in her sister’s shadows. The only difference between these identical twins is their personality. Violet is popular, the kind of girl who has a million friends and gets invited to all the parties.

Nothing can change the fact that Violet is dead, until Olivia gets three wishes and a chance to bring her sister back. A haunted past, love, and secrets collide, now Olivia has to be careful what she wishes for, or nothing will ever be the same.

Alexandra Bullen keeps you turning the page, wanting to know if Olivia will find her own voice and step out into the sun. She makes the book come alive as if you are right next to Olivia, rooting for her the entire time. I couldn’t stop reading Wish, I absolutely adored it.

Readers who are wishaholics, the ones who stare at digital clocks waiting for 11:11 to come, who stare at the sky watching for shooting stars, or who look for shiny copper pennies, will find a love for Wish.

I recommend it to anyone who wants to explore the power of sisterhood.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

The Giver by Lois Lowry

a review by Evan Raeker 4 out of 5

The Giver Laurel-Leaf, 1993, 179pp. $6.50 Lois Lowry 440-23768-8

Dell ISBN

0-

Jonas, an eleven year old boy, is about to turn twelve and go through the Ceremony of Twelve, just as all the previous generations have. The ceremony is very important to his community. A couple weeks before the ceremony, weird things start happening to Jonas. In a place with one color, he starts to see red, green and many others. He is baffled by this and wonders what’s going on.

Indecisive what job he wants, Jonas gets nervous when the announcer skips his name. Soon, the last person standing there is him. His mind searches for reasons this could have happened, but finds nothing.

Finally he is assigned to be the new Receiver of Memory, a job that allows him to break rules. Breaking rules is strictly forbidden, and those who break them can be punished many ways. Jonas is shocked to find that he can break rules, and starts to get a new idea about the community. With this idea, come feelings that a change is needed throughout the community.

When Lois Lowry puts the reader in a position to see a deep meaning, the deep meaning that makes you stop and think about what your life would be like living in Jonas’ community, it shows how creative and robust she is. She puts you right next to Jonas through his whole adventure. You get anxious when something is about to arise, just as Jonas does.

The Giver is a great book to put in readers’ hands that think action isn’t the key part of a book. You get attached to Jonas and how he thinks, feels, and acts. There are seemingly endless lessons you can learn through this book. This expertly crafted work of art is a strong recommendation of mine to all readers.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Beastly by Alex Flinn

a review by Annie Satin 5 out of 5

Beastly 2010, 300pp, $8.99 Alex Flinn

Harper Teen Inc., ISBN 978-0-06-196328-5

A twist on Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Alex Flinn’s Beastly, is a captivating book about Kyle Kingsbury. Handsome and rich, and Prom King of Tuttle High School, Kyle is the guy everyone wants to be. But all of that changes when Kyle is transformed into his truer self, a beast, by a witch named Kendra who sees Kyle for what he really is. If Kyle wants his old life back, he will need to find someone who is willing to look beyond his hideousness and love him in less than two years, or he will stay a beast forever. But that won’t be easy, because Kyle is rude, mean, selfish, and self-centered. Can he break his curse?

This book was a true page-turner. I couldn’t stop reading it until I reached the end. By reading this book, I learned the new understanding of life: To not judge people by what they look like, but to judge people on the inside.

I would recommend Flinn’s exciting love story to anyone, because it’s fast pace and a good read. So fall in love with Beastly, by Alex Flinn.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

The Alchemyst by Michael Scott

a review by Jack Shemanski 4 out of 5

The Alchemyst Random House, 2007, 375 pp, $8.99 Michael Scott ISBN 0-552-55709-9 In The Alchemyst by Michael Scott, Josh and Sophie are normal twins until one day they come face to face with what is only imaginable in their dreams. They are working their regular shifts at their job at a bookstore. Josh and Sophie think the owners of the store are Nick and Perry Fleming, but they are really the Immortal Nicholas and Pernellle Flamel. A strange looking man, Dr. John Dee, stroms into the bookstore where he and Nicholas get into a magic duel for power of the Codex, the most powerful book in the world. With it Dee could bring the Dark Elders back into the world, which would tear down human civilization. Dee gets the Codex, but Josh manages to tear out the last two pages, the Final Summoning of the Dark Elders.

Nicholas Flamel is The Alchemyst, one of the most powerful magicians in the world. He leaves and takes the twins because they are in danger. Josh and Sophie, the newly found magical twins of the Prophecy, need to help get the book back because every day Nicholas and Pernelle don't have it, they age a year. Dee could also use the book to start summoning the Dark Elders. The Prophecy says Josh and Sophie will either save the world or destroy it. Their world gets flipped upside down. Everything they thought was fake is really true. They use magic, strategy, and strength to fight and stay alive. Which road will they choose?

In my opinion The Alchemyst is an astuonding book. It is actionpacked with adventure and fantasy. If you like any of these genres, The Alchemyst will amaze you. It is a great page-turner. Every page you read makes you want to read ten more. If you like this book, you will also like the rest of the series, The Secrets of The Immortal Nicholas Flamel. Michael Scott has created a stunning novel and I recommed it for almost everyone.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Dark Fire by Chris D'lacey

a review by Kyle Wagner 1 out of 5

Dark Fire $7.99 Author: Chris D’Lacey

Scholastic

Inc,

2010,

567pp,

ISBN 978-0-545-10273-5

In the book Dark Fire, after five long years, David has return from dead from when he passed away in the Arctic. But his mission is far from complete, the alien race the IX are trying to obliterate the human race. They’ll accomplish this by melting the polar ice caps and use earth as a resource mine. And they’re making an army of dark dragons called Darklings. And the sibyl Gwillian is back to her evil ways.

Gadzooks is on a mission too, he is leaving clues to a secret that will help them in this war of worlds. Our world and others are at stack, so failure is not an option. Now it’s up to David and his friends to destroy the Ix by joining forces with some old friends and awakening the queen of all dragons.

When I think of dragons I think of the mid evil times with wizards and knights, not aliens and the polar ice caps! Chris D’Lacey ruined it by brining David back to life. It would be the best series if Chris D’lacey stopped at the 3rd book! The story was hard to understand and it was hard to picture a character because the book keeps changing them. It felt like the lazy river slow and little action. But it might just be me and I you could actually like to read this. Overall I strongly don’t recommend this book.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Fantasy Fiction

Eon Dragoneye Reborn by Alison Goodman

a review by Chad Winner 5 out of 5

Eon is an adventurous boy, who just wants to become a Dragoneye, The protector of a dragon’s orb. The gods have blessed him with stunning powers to see and fell the twelve dragons. There’s only one problem, he’s a girl and a cripple. Being a cripple isn’t that bad, but being a girl is. If the dragon council, The council with all the Dragoneyes, finds out, she will be executed. She’ll stop at nothing to become a Dragoneye, even if it kills her.

Alison Goodman’s, Eon, Dragoneye Reborn, is an ideal novel. It has incredible action scenes, and an end that leaves you hanging. The beginning is very boring, but has critical information for the pages to follow.

You learn about the important Chinese culture, the Chinese Calendar. It also explains a world were women are excluded.

I highly recommend, Eon, Dragoneye Reborn. It has an exceptional twist on the Chinese culture. If you love action or Chinese stories, then you’ll adore this one.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Historical Fiction

The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner

a review by Haleigh Cummings 4 out of 5 The Red Necklace 378pp, $17.99 Sally Gardner ISBN 978-0-8037-3100-4

Penguin Group, 2007,

“The devil’s own is on your trail”, Yann heard somewhere beyond the interior walls.

A young orphan with lots of talent, Yann Margoza, performs with his guardian, Topolain, all over the country. He loved his life. But one night, a disastrous and terrifying event happened after he had preformed with Topolain for Count Kolloivski. Now Yann has no idea what to do with his lonely and depressing life.

A small family that was friends with his dads’ agent, the Tippens, had generously taken Yann in, although he is not very happy where he is. All he wants to do is go home. But the Tippens, trying to teach Yann and help him grow up are about to discover that it was a considerable mistake taking him in. Evil is following Yann his every step and is successfully destroying his life little by little. Will Yann be able to figure his life out before evil catches up with him?

Gardner keeps on a fast pace mystery book by adding questioning thoughts throughout each chapter. As an avid reader, I have enjoyed mystery books, but The Red Necklace is by far the top on my list. By the third chapter I was so intrigued into it, it was hard for me to put it down. (What a great job by Sally Gardner.)

Sally writes a wonderful suspense filled adventurous book.

Every chapter just keeps urging you on to read, read, and read. Not only is it a great mystery book, but it also has the French Revolution in setting. Sally does a great job combining mystery and fiction into a knowledgeable book.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Historical Fiction

Red Scarf Girl by Ji-Li Jaing

a review by Jack Geiger 5 out of 5

Red Scarf Girl Ji-Li Jiang

HarperCollins, 1997,285pp, $6.99 ISBN 0-06-027585-5

Ji-Li Jiang, author and protagonist of Red Scarf Girl, had a wonderful life. A straight "A" student with a loving and caring family, who were prepared to do anything for her. That all changed when a liberation officer came to the local school to recruit children to go to the red guard academy.

Ji-Li's class status, however, prevented her from being able to go. Ji-Li and her family were willing to do anything to escape the reticule of neighbors, former friends, and worst of all the government. They even burned their most cherished, and irreplaceable memories. Then, when Ji-Li's father got arrested, she was faced with one of the hardest decisions of her life.

Ji-Li will take you on an emotional journey through the eyes of a "black family", a name given to wealthy families during the cultural revolution. She has to deal with traumatic experiences including, arrest, illegal actions, and death. This all happens throughout one of the most frightening times in Chinese history.

Even if non-fiction is not your thing, the events in this book are so outrageous that it seems like a fantasy. Red Scarf Girl is sure to hook you from the first page.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Historical Fiction

Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages

a review by Rachel Schmidt 4 out of 5

Penguin Group, 2006, 321pp, $7.99 ISBN 978-0-14-241149-0 Dewey grew up the super genius and she finally feels at home for one of the very first times on the Hill. The Hill is a questionable place in Los Alamos, New Mexico however, this city doesn’t officially exist. This means that everything on the Hill is a secret and nothing can be shared to the outside of the Hill. Dewey gets her brains from her dad, who works very long hours creating “the gadget.” In Dewey’s time alone she creates some of her own gadgets by going to the dump and bringing the parts back in her red wagon.

When Dewey’s dad leaves the Hill for a few weeks, Dewey is forced to live with the Gordons.

Terry Gordon’s daughter, Suze, is not thrilled to have Screwy Dewey stay in her room. After many days of separation between the girls, Suze has the confidence to ask Dewey what her gadgets do. Dewey and Suze find out that they have more in common than they ever thought possible through these gadgets. Even though Suze doesn’t want to admit it, she has started to like Dewey; however their friendship is tested by peer pressure in school.

The Green Glass Sea is a historical fiction novel. Some people may get turned off because of its genre, but it is a heartwarming read. It is not a super fast paced book, but this allows you time to relate to the characters’ feelings.

I would recommend this novel to anyone who is in middle school, and to people who can relate to the struggles of the war. Ellen Klages’ World War II novel puts you right next to Dewey and Suze allowing you to watch them grow as characters.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Historical Fiction

The Ostonishing Life of Octavian Nothing by M.T. Anderson

a review by Elaina Veasey 4 out of 5 Candlewick Press, 2006, 353pp, $10.99 ISBN 978-0-7636-3679-1 My name is Octavian Nothing; I am a prisoner in a place I used to call home. The first few years of my live had been simple and easy, I lives in luxury at a college with my mother. I was educated and treated well, exceptionally well for a person of African American decent, life me.

But after a horrendous mishap we lost our funding and the only way to keep the college open was to allow the cruel Mr. Sharpe to run out financing.

As I realize what is behind a forbidden door and why my mother and I are kept at this establishment I find running away is the only way out.

In this captivating tale, featuring Octavian’s life, M.T. Anderson proposes the topic of what would happen when the foundation and truth of a young person’s life is stripped away. Octavian’s life long struggle to do what’ right is riddled with misfortune, it makes we want to read this High-School level book many times over. I recommend this book to any advanced readers who enjoy history based struggle, and are unafraid to delve deeply into the past of African American society. Because of Octavian I will never look at a history book the same way, and will weep at the sight of an abandoned violin.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Historical Fiction

Year of the Hangman by Gary Blackwood

a review by Chad Wilson 5 out of 5

The Year of the Hangman Gary Blackwood 0142400784

Scholastic Inc., 2002, 272pp, $13.34 ISBN 978-

“Help, Help!” Creighton, a spoiled little brat from Britain, screamed out of a porthole. Creighton, main character, howled this as he is being hauled off to America in this thrilling novel, The Year of the Hangman.

The year is 1777 and Creighton is being shipped off to Florida with his uncle, the Governor. But colonists, angry about losing the Revolutionary War, capture his uncle. His Uncle Then forces Creighton to spy on the legendary inventor, Benjamin Franklin. During this time, he meets many colonial friends and realizes what Britain’s army is really doing in America. As this realization occurs, he starts to wonder whose side he’s on and where his loyalties lie.

The author, Gary Blackwood, did a phenomenal job on this alternative history book. Gary really emphases the hardships that America would have faced if we had lost the Revolutionary War. He makes you think what life would have been like if we lost. Always keeping you in suspense, you will be wondering what will happen next.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone with a love for history and action. Once you start reading, you won’t be able to stop.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Horror Fiction

Cirque Du Freak: A Living Nightmare by Darren Shan

a review by Jenna Slotten 4 out of 5

Cirque Du Freak: A Living Nightmare Darren

Little Brown and Company, 2001, 257pp, $8.99 ISBN 0-316-60340-6 Shan

I need to save Steve. He’s my best friend. After all, I’m the one who let the dumb spider bite him.

These are the thoughts of Darren Shan in, Cirque Du Freak: A Living Nightmare. He knows what he has to do, and that is to become a half-vampire to save his best friend, Steve, from a deadly spider bite.

Of course with that, comes having to fake his own death, saying good-bye to his family and friends (forever?), and going on to live with the confusing and misleadingv vampire,Mr.Crepsley.

I like this story, because it keeps you on the edge of your seat, always wanting to turn the page. From bear attacks to drinking blood from humans, Darren discovers that being a vampire isn’t as cool as it sounds in books he read as a kid. You have to work hard and earn your respect in the vampire clan, which could be hard for a 14-year-old boy. As if that’s not difficult enough, he has to put up with his vampire teacher, Mr. Crepsley, who doesn’t explain everything about the vampire religion and rules. This catches up with Darren later in the saga.

If you’re someone who enjoys creepy and sinister settings, as well as scenes of courage and friendship, then Cirque Du Freak: A Living Nightmare is the book to read. This book is an astonishing read, because it educates its readers by sharing the goods vs. bads about these fairytale creatures. In addition, it illustrates how hard life can be and how to survive in tough situations. Anyone who wants to experience the breathtaking moments of being in a vampire’s shoes, I highly suggest Cirque Du Freak: A Living Nightmare.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Horror Fiction

The Monstumologist by Rick Yancey

a review by austin welch 4 out of 5

The Monstrumologist 2009, 434, $17.99 Rick Yancey

Simon

&

Schuster,

ISBN: 978-1-4169-8448-1

In the book The Monstrumologist, the main character, Will, an adolescent orphan, is an apprentice.

His mentor is Dr. Warthrop, a monstrumologist who lives with Will; even though Will isn’t positive he wants to be a monstrumologist.

One night Will and the doctor get a corpse with a monster in it.

After that Will finds himself sucked into a nonstop monster hunt trying to find and get rid of these monsters. He also discovers more about what happened to his parents and about the doctor along the way.

All of these discoveries and hunts happen when the boy is only twelve!

I thought this book was great. There were some words in the book I didn’t understand, but I still understood the book well.

The description in this book by Rick Yancey was amazing.

I highly recommend this book if you like nonstop action and don’t mind gore books. When you read it you will feel like the monster are right next to you.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Horror Fiction

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

a review by Emma Housner 5 out of 5

Twilight $10.99

Stephanie Meyer

Little brown and company, 2005, 498pp,

ISBN 0-316-16017-2

“And so the lion fell in love with the lamb” whispered Edward Cullen into Bella Swan’s ear. The lion represents Edward; dangerous, a blood sucker, a vampire. The lamb symbolizes Bella; fragile, flesh and blood, human. Edward strives to be a new kind of vampire, one who only feeds on the blood of animals. Because of this special “diet”, Edward and his immortal family maintain a permanent residence among the humans of Forks, Washington.

Bella feels safe with Edward, and for good reason, what with his extreme strength and speed. But there is still some part of him that thirst for her blood. When Bella finds out that Edward and his family aren’t human, the dangers of his world promptly show themselves to her. Bella learns quickly that not all vampires have chosen to “diet” like the Cullen’s. Edward does everything in his power to save them both. But will it be enough?

Stephanie Meyer does a great job holding the suspense and romance in Twilight. With a new danger at every corner…it’s like you’re experiencing the scare right with the characters.

This fantastic novel will thrill you to no end if you like danger, action, and romance. I would recommend this book to anyone who would give it a chance.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Mystery Fiction

The One Left Behind by Willo Davis Roberts

a review by Miranda Eberle 4 out of 5

The One Left Behind 144pp, $16.95

Atheneum,

2006,

Willo Davis Roberts ISBN 0689850751

Mandy, the main character, in Willo Davis Roberts’ The One Left Behind awoke in the dark of her bedroom afraid realizing she was left home for the whole weekend. The young adult is very brave and courageous. When Mandy’s family miscommunicated she was stranded at home, while everyone else was enjoying themselves on vacation. While she’s at home she sees car tracks mysteriously going into the woods. Obviously she’s intrigued and has to find where they lead. The brave young adult leaves the house in search for an adventure.

She finds a boy her age and his baby brother in the beat up car, and becomes good friends with them. They learn about each other, and Zander, the eleven year old boy her age, tells her about his babysitter’s brother and how wretched and rude he is. Mandy is frightened by what happens next.

The three kids come to a near death situation. Will someone save them?

Willo Davis Roberts did a stunning job with the plot, making it very exiting and suspenseful. She packed it with powerful details that bring the book alive. She makes it feel like you’re right next to Mandy all throughout the book. The suspense builds with every page you turn.

I would recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense and mystery. You won’t be able to put the book down.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Mystery Fiction

Million Doller Throw by Mike Lupica

a review by Grant Johnson 4 out of 5

Million Dollar Throw

Scholastic Inc, 2009,244, $6.9

MikeLupica ISBN 978-0-545-29034-0 In the book, Million Dollar Throw, Nate Brodie is a 13 year old who is the star quarterback of his football team, The Valley Patriots. He lives in Valley, Massachusetts and is a huge fan of the New England Patriots with his favorite player being quarterback Tom Brady. On Thanksgiving there is a million dollar throw contest at the New England Patriots Gillette Stadium vs. the Colts. His sister signs him up with a chance to win the million dollars. The pressure of this throw starts to weigh on Nate's shoulders. His team is counting on him, his family could really use the money, and his best friend Abby needs his support. He is sad that he did not have confidence in his sister to say, “Thank You Sis” for entering him in this contest. He has been practicing forever for this event. The day is very close, but is he ready? His family is driving to the stadium and at halftime he is going complete in the million-dollar throw. Does he make it?

In my opinion this book is very good for kids that like sports. It shows that being a star athlete is not all that its seems to be. You have pressure from your school and teammates along with pressure from your family and friends.

Nate knows that the two important people in his life are counting on him. His family needs this money so they can stay in the house he grew up in and his best friend Abby needs it to help treat her eye condition. I learned that one miss could cost you everything.

As being a young athlete myself, I would recommend this book to all young athletes. I learned that pressure from life can effect the way I play the game.

Sometimes family and friends mean more to you then the game or winning. It also showed me that its not all about sports, but what drives you to win or make that throw.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Non-Fiction

Marley and Me by John Grogan

a review by Tyler DeLaurier 4 out of 5 Marley and Me HarperCollins, 2005, 289pp, $21.95 John Grogan 978-0-06-081708-4 In the book Marley and Me, you will find it very amusing. Marley a Labrador Retriever, was just five weeks old when the Grogans purchased him. But, he seemed to grow a lot faster every time he ate. The more he grows, the more disasters he causes. He broke everything he

screened

doors,

drooled

all

over

people,

and

ate

could to get into his jaws. Marley even managed to shut down a public beach. He did a role in a feature-length movie called The Last Home Run. At the end of the book, Marley is suffering from gastric dilatation volvulus, a medical condition where the stomach is boated from food, water, and excessive gas content. The vet said that he can go through surgery, or put to sleep. What decision will John Grogan choose?

John Grogan writes about the life and love with the world’s worst dog.

Almost every chapter you will laugh at one of the bestselling New York Times autobiography book. I would like to recommend this book to those who like to read comedy and canine affection.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Non-Fiction

War by Sebastian Junger

a review by Adam Head 5 out of 5

War Hatchet Book Group, 2010,287pp,15.82 ISBN 987-0-446-55624-8

Sebastian Junger

The Afghanistan war, everyone knows about it, and everybody is talking about it. Being a writer by trade Sebastian Junger wanted to see the action for himself. And having never shot an M-16 before, the standard military weapon, he needed to be deployed with a skillful group of men. So, Junger joins a platoon of rowdy men with a knack for killing. He meets O’Bryne, an aggressive alpha male and Doctor Restapo, a scrappy young medic. After seeing the example set by O’Bryne, Sebastian soon learns how to pepper the enemy with bullets. In Jungers non-fiction book you see the day-to-day life of a soldier in Afghanistan.

Nobody reports the events in Afghanistan better than Sebastian Junger, from first-hand experience, after he patrols in Afghanistan. He takes you through all of the bloody, gory reality of war. Sebastian Junger’s War keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire book. I now understand how gruesome war really is. Also how the Afghanistan war looks good on paper but it doesn’t look so good when an enemy is on the ground with blood on his face from your bullet. But, most of all, it gives you a real look at war, not just the cheesy “Call of Duty” war where everything works out in the end, because it doesn’t.

Junger shows you this in War. Sebastian Junger’s masterpiece gives you an in-depth, raw look at the war everyone is talking about.

I recommend War to anyone with an interest with the war in Afghanistan. Junger takes you across the pages with the humor, drama, and friendship of war.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Science-Fiction

Shiver by Meggie Stiefvater

a review by Emily Plisko 5 out of 5

Shiver Scholastic Press, 2009, 290 p, $9.99 Maggie ISBN- 987-0-545-1237-3

Stiefvater

Grace was just a little girl when she got dragged off and ravaged by a group of wolves in the woods. There was one in particular that stood out because he just stood there and watched everything happen. A yellow eyed wolf is how Grace recognized him. The wolf come to her backyard everyday hoping she would change. But Grace never changed. As grace got older she started liking wolves but there was a problem. Well one of the wolves was Sam that got shot and he went to Grace for help.

He changes right in front in Grace. She finally got to meet her wolf that she was waiting for. Grace takes him in and cares for him till he gets better. Winter is coming and Sam is going to change back into a wolf soon. Well Isabel a friend of Graces herd about Sam changing and think she found cure, but it can kill you. Grace and Isabel tried to get the medicine in Sam but only ended up getting half of it in.

Sam must fight to stay human, or risk losing Grace forever. Shiver shows how two very different people risk doing things for each other to keep Sam human.

Shiver is a great story. I highly recommend this book. It’s a thrill were the action just comes in right away at the beginning. Also the plot just keeps you wanting to know more through the book. Shiver is a book for people who like a thrill and romance.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Non-Fiction

A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest Gaines

a review by Sydney Tressler 5 out of 5

A Lesson Before Dying

Vintage Books, 1993, 256pp, $4.95

ISBN 0-679-74166 Ernest Gaines

How would you feel if you lived the last few months of your live being told you were a hog?

Twenty four year old, Grant Wiggins, has been requested to be a teacher for a black men named Jefferson who thinks of himself only of a hog.

Jefferson has been sentenced to death by a miscarriage of justice.

Grant has been summoned as a teacher because Jefferson’s high spirited, yet dying godmother wants him to go to the “chair” standing up straight, holding is head high and knowing he’s a man. When Jefferson’s first lessons begin he will not talk to Grant, he just keeps using the excuses that he’s a hog, why do I have to learn and ‘I’m going to dye anyway.

Ernest Gains creates Grants life full relatable events and characters, such as almost silent Jefferson moving on and having lengthy conversations with Grant and writing in a notebook. Gains has carefully written A Lesson Before Dying and I can hear all of the southern dialect.

I highly recommend A Lesson Before Dying to any one who enjoys history, life lessons, and relatable characters. This book has defiantly shows how much people can evolve with the right help.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Realistic Fiction

heaven looks alot like the mall by wendy mass

a review by savannah butler 4 out of 5

Heaven looks a lot like company,2007,251pages,$7.99 Wendy Mass

the

Mall

Little

brown,and

ISBN:13:9780311658513

Have you ever wondered what heaven looks like? Well in the book Heaven looks a lot like the Mall, Tessa, the 16-year-old protagonist unfortunately finds out. It starts out in gym class playing dodge ball, when the hard red ball came flying towards Tessa, there was no time to move out of the way. She got hit right in the head! She was knocked into an a coma. When Tessa woke up she was in the mall, with know memories of how she had gotten there.

Tessa was later greeted by a boy with a nail through his head, she calls him nail boy. He takes her on a trip to the lost and found room and gives Tessa a shopping bag. He tells her that in the bag, is stuff that she has bought at the mall over the years. He leaves her in suspense by telling her she must find the answer to the BIG question she needs to ask herself.

Wendy Mass has created this both humorous yet heart touching novel, that I liked so much because it was suspenseful at times which always kept me wanting more. I could hardly set down the book because every page was filled with different clues to the BIG question of Tessa’s life.

I would recommend this books,and who is committed to you cant stop! It’s a great wanting to read more books by

book to anyone that likes suspenseful reading it because once you start the book realistic fiction book that will keep you Wendy Mass.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Realistic Fiction

Boost by Kathy Mackel

a review by Lauren Frailey 5 out of 5

Draft #2 Boost Group, 248pp, $16.99 Kathy Mackel 978-0-8037-32407

The

Penguin ISNB

Have you ever been accused of something you didn’t do?

Well that’s exactly what happens to Savvy Christopher.

Savvy, the main character in Boost, is a thirteen year old girl who loves basketball.

Her family and she have to move from New Mexico to Rhode Island when their house is foreclosed. Trying out for the 16’s basketball team was when Gonzo, Savvy’s new best friend, talked her into trying out for the 18’s elite basketball team where they aren’t treated well. Though they both make the 18’s team, Fire, their teammates still don’t like them just because they are younger. They both play together until Savvy is accused of using of using steroids, after they are found in her gym bag. She has to sit out and not play or practice until the police can figure out whose steroids they are. Savvy has to decide whether or not to give up and not play again or have there be no limits to proving her innocents.

Kathy Mackel does an incredible job of making you feel like you are there with Savvy and showing Savvy’s emotions. Also Kathy Mackel turns her book into a realistic mystery and does a terrific job of showing the characters feelings by their body language and verbal language.

This book gives a whole new meaning to the word competitive, and will keep you wondering. Katy Mackel’s page turning, action filled story is a book I would recommend to any sport lover looking for a good read.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Realistic Fiction

Kissing Coffins by Ellen Schreiber

a review by Mercedes Hagerty 4 out of 5

Kissing Coffins

Harper Collins Publisher,162pg,$11.55

Ellen Schreiber

ISBN9780060776220

Raven, the main character, is anything but ordinary.

She has a vampire boyfriend that lives in a creepy old mansion that his family inherited, in Dullsville. Or as Raven calls it, Vampireville.

Raven has always been a Dullsvillian. Alexander, Raven’s boyfriend, grew up in Romania and has always been a vampire.

After Raven and Alexander vanishes. She searches everywhere get in her way, even Jagger.

All love, Alexander. Will she achieve and Alexander in more trouble?

fall in love, Alexander suddenly for him, and she won’t let anything Raven wants to do is find her true this goal? Or will she put herself

I highly recommend Kissing Coffins, which is the second book in the Vampire Kisses series, to young adult readers.

Ellen Schreiber did an amazing job on this book.

It’s a great mix of romance and action. Once you start reading, it’s difficult to put down.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Realistic Fiction

my sister's keeper by jodi picoult

a review by erin peters 4 out of 5

My Sister’s Washington Square Press, 2005, 448pp,$16.00 Jodi ISNB 0743454537

Keeper Picoult

Anna was born for a reason - to save her sister, Kate's, life. But after thirteen years of making body organ and tissue donations, Anna makes a decision that she hopes will benefit her and her sister. She takes matters into her own hands by hiring a lawyer to sue her parents for the right to make her own decisions about her body. But what Anna doesn't realize is that standing up for herself could destroy her and her family.

In Jodi Picoult's heartbreaking novel, My Sister's Keeper , you get to know the characters really well. Each person has a very unique personality, which makes you understand them more. Jesse, Anna's older brother, fascinated me the most with his poor choices which were his way of dealing with Kate's sickness and his way of seeking attention. I really appreciated the way the author gave you a lot of information previous to the incident, so you knew the real importance of why this event was such a big deal. Jodi Picoult did a fantastic job making an unlikely story a believable one.

I would recommend My Sister’s Keeper to anyone who enjoys serious family drama and deep character development. ~Erin Peters, Grade 7 Winter, 2011

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Realistic Fiction

Animal Farm by George Orwell

a review by Jamie Raupp 4 out of 5

The animals on Manor Farm dreamt of being self-sufficient. After chasing off the farmer, the sadistic ruler of the animals, the animals began to assume their tribulations are over. But on only the second day of their independence from the farmer and, for that matter, the rest of the human race, things start to shift from innocent to fraudulent. While the rules (Made on the first day of freedom from the farmer to serve as a kind of law for the animals) state that all animals must be treated equal above all else, the impression changes that perhaps…this isn’t the case.

In George Orwell’s Animal Farm communism is addressed in the form of an allegorical mirror. Each animal represents a person or political group such as the dogs as the secret police, Moses (the raven) representing religion in the Soviet Union and Boxer (a hard working Clydesdale) being the ignorant but loyal followers of the Soviets.

Orwell’s book is a perfect example of how societies attempting at a perfect life can easily become corruption. George Orwell shows how societies might have a good intention at first- but it may not always end that way.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who wishes to read a book that will make you step back and look if everything societies do is really for “The good of all the community”. Or, too anyone who wants a short read that doesn’t exactly make you stretch on word choice but makes you stretch too understand the deeper meaning.-Jamie Raupp, Grade 7Spring, 2011

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Realistic Fiction

The Absolutely TRue Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

a review by Maddy Ross 5 out of 5

What if you had to face the wrath of everyone around you? Arnold Spirit, also known as Junior, the protagonist in the realistic fiction novel of The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, did just that.

All he wanted was a better education than what was provided for him on the Indian Reservation where he lived. He took action, and with only the support of his family, left the reservation to go to an all white high school called Reardan. Everyone on his reservation turned against him, even his best friend Rowdy.

The rejection Junior faced threw him off guard. Ignoring it all, he kept persevering through the scorn that was thrown his way. To continue going to his new school and defying society, the antagonist of the story, was very courageous of Junior. He had to be brave and rebuild himself at Reardan.

Sherman Alexie did a stunning job of incorporating the thoughts and feelings of a modern Native American in The Absolutely True Diary. It was written with a witty twist, making it a very appealing and amusing read. Significant meaning was also intertwined into the plot in a way that young adults could easily comprehend. The reader was placed in Junior’s shoes, and felt his pain, grief, and happiness that he encountered throughout the novel. Sherman expertly crafted The Absolutely True Diary, making it a page-turner because of the surprising and unpredictable nature of Junior’s life.

This story tossed a modern flip on the differences between races still standing in the U.S. It uncovered the meaning of believing in yourself and never giving up. I would recommend this book to boys and girls of all ages who like a comical, yet expressive read about a boy fighting for what he believes in.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Realistic Fiction

Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

a review by Brian Saporito 5 out of 5

Dairy of a Wimpy Kid $4.99

Amulet Books, 2007, 224,

Jeff Kinney

ISBN 0-8109-9455-0

Greg Heffley is stuck in middle school, in between two morons as he puts it. And at his house isn’t much better. He has a 2year-old little brother named Manny, who is still learning the world and its wonders. He also has an older brother named Rodrick, who is a pain in the butt to Greg. And then there’s Rowley, Greg’s best friend who sometimes gets on his nerves. But that wont stop Greg from becoming the most famous person in the world. Greg goes through the life of an every day life of a middle schooler and gives funny advice.

Jeff Kinney did an amazing job on connection with the younger and pre teen readers. Jeff Kinney also makes the events that happen very unpredictable and funny. You will want to keep turning the pages to see what happens in Greg’s uncontrollable life.

This book would fit anybody with a sense of humor. This book is a quick and easy read.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Realistic Fiction

The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks

a review by Charlotte Taylor 5 out of 5

The Last Song 2009, 480pp,$7.99 ISBN 978-0446570961

Grand

Central,

Nicholas Sparks

In the book, The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks, there are three main characters. Ronnie, a snotty teenager, Will, an athletic and rich teenager, and Ronnie’s dad, Steve.

Ronnie feels like she was shipped off to her dad’s for the summer because she hates him. On the other hand, Jonah, Ronnie’s little brother and minor character, is thrilled to see his father because he doesn’t care about the past.

Ronnie has a reason to be mad though.

When she and Jonah were younger, Steve left their family.

He taught Ronnie how to play the piano too so she quit playing after he left.

When she meets Will though, everything changes. She learns to appreciate her family because Will’s brother died a few years ago in a car crash. Also, her passion for playing the piano starts again.

This book was amazing! The plot of the story was very believable.

Readers can connect to Ronnie and/or Will.

Ronnie doesn’t like her family and wishes she had it different. While Will’s parents have his future planned out for him. I think the theme of this story is that you need to be grateful for what you have because one day you may not have it.

I strongly recommend The Last Song to anyone who enjoys comedy, drama, and romance. When you begin reading Sparks’ amazing story, you will have a tough time putting it down!

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Realistic Fiction

A Mango Shaped Space by Wendy Mass

a review by Kennedy Ulfig 4 out of 5

A Mango Shaped Space $6.99 ISBN 0-316-52388

Little Brown and Company,2003,221pp, Wendy mass

“Isn’t it better to use the right colors?” Eight year-old Mia asked.

“What do you mean the right colors?” Mrs. Low, Mia's third grade teacher, remarked in a surprised tone. “The, the colors the numbers make, like four is red zigzags. And eight is green polka dots.”

Mia said, thinking isn’t it obvious, this was only the beginning of Mia’s surprising and interesting journey, in Wendy Mass’ A Mango Shaped Space.

During the touching and imaginative page-turner, A Mango Shaped Space, Mia seems to be a normal kid, with a normal family and a normal life, however she isn’t, she has rare condition called Synestehisa, which she keeps to herself. This disease has more effects on Mia, than constantly, drowning her in color when she hears any type of sounds. This disability is holding Mia’s bright personality back. From the time when Mia finally opens herself up to the world and realizes she isn’t a “freak”, to dealing with a devastating loss, you will be wrapped up in this great plot.

When you read Wendy Mass’ book, you will not be able to put it down, you will be engulfed with a rollercoaster ride of emotions, feeling like you are really there. This book was very easy to connect to because; Wendy Mass portrayed Mia, so well, with all of the emotions and actions, being so realistic, it made you feel like you are Mia and actually part of the story. For example, when Mia is sprinting through the heavy down pour of rain, I could sense her quality of loneliness, and emptiness.

This was a great read, because it generally helped my understanding of a real life issue which affects kids every day. You will adore the plot on the interesting issue of a normal kid’s life. If you are looking for a heart throb, touching and realistic story, I would defiantly recommend A Mango Shaped Space.

GENRE: Realistic Fiction

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

a review by Liberty Woodside 5 out of 5

If I Stay 2009,199pp, $16.99 Gayle Forman 525-42103-0

Penguin Group, ISBN 978-0-

Mia and her mother, father, and brother Teddie, get in a terrible car accident. They all die except Mia, who is in a serious coma. She is aware of everything going on around her. She must make a very important decision - whether she lives, or dies.

Mia feels that her choice is fair either way, but with many people she loved and cherished gone forever and everyone else she loves wanting her to live, she doesn’t know what to do.

The book was definitely a page-turner. Mia’s life story was so heartwarming and impacting, that it made me care for her. I had to know what happened to her. Gayle Forman does a wonderful job of telling Mia’s past by using flashbacks. The book also keeps you flipping the pages because of what is going on around Mia. My favorite part is when her best friend Kim, helps her loving boyfriend, Adam, do something very epic and heroic. It makes it easy to see how much Mia is loved and cared for.

If you enjoy an emotional and moving story, then you will love If I Stay. It never ceases to impact you. If I Stay is a great way to get emotionally attached to a book. It really pulls your “heartstrings.” If I were you, I would definitely consider giving it a read.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Science Fiction

The Hunger Games by Suzzane Collins

a review by Samantha Fox 5 out of 5

The Hunger Games 2008, 374pp, $8.99

Scholastic Inc.,

Suzanne Collins ISBN 0-439-02348-3 Could you imagine getting chosen in a drawing that could guide you a one way ticket to dying? Katniss, the main character, and the tributes, her rivals, had this fate in the narrative The Hunger Games.

Katniss was born into a family that was penniless, without male siblings or a father figure. In the Hunger Games all the tributes want to do is win the Hunger Games and make it out alive. Katniss wants to do the same but in a more peaceful way, by not killing her competitors.

Haymitch, Katniss’s helper in the games, told her to stay away from other tributes, but then a shocking rule was made twisting the games around.

Suzanne Collins, the author of The Hunger Games, wrote an action packed page-turner, which makes you not want to put the novel down. The author brings Katniss to life by making you feel Katniss’s feelings during the games.

I would recommend this book to anyone; it has a lot of stunning surprises, an abundance of descriptive images. Flying through the pages you will see Katniss’s journey through the Hunger Games.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Science Fiction

Life As We Knew It by Susan Pfeffer

a review by Tommy Lucas 4 out of 5

Life as we Knew it Susan PfefferISBN 978-0-15-206-154-8

April

Ward,

2006,

347pp,

$6.95

In the book, Life as we Knew it, Pennsylvania is shocked by a meteor shower gone wrong. A meteor crashes into the moon leaving a huge gash and knocking the moon closer to Earth. Miranda, the protagonist, is overcome with the rest of the U.S., by volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and blizzards.

Miranda faces trouble every day, from her family members being sick to the house not being warm enough to sleep in. Struggling for survival, Miranda goes to town for a chance to live. She comes across a piece of information that could increase their chance of survival.

In my opinion Life as we Knew it was a real suspenseful book. It would leave me hanging after each and every chapter. Susan Pfeffer made me feel like I was living in the living room, while the woodstove was helping them survive.

I recommend Susan Pfeffer's thriller for everyone suspenseful, leave you hanging, and catastrophic lovers.

who

loves

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Science Fiction

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

a review by Alexander Manohar 5 out of 5

The Hunger Games Press,2008,pp374,$8.99 Suzanne Collins 978-0-439-02352-8

Scholastic ISBN

Surviving on a daily basis and keeping her family alive. For Katniss Everdeen, the main character, this is a normal day in District 12. But her world is turned upside down when her sister’s name is pulled from the reaping ball. Katniss immediately volunteers to take her place in the Hunger Games. These are no ordinary games. In these games you fight other people to the death for the right to live.

The other tribute from District 12 is Peeta Mellark, the baker’s son.

When they arrive at the capitol they are sent to train for the games.

When all the tributes are interviewed is when Peeta announces his love for Katniss. This completely changes how you think the book is going to end.

Suzanne Collins wrote the book in a way that keeps the book going but not too fast that it makes it impossible to read. In the beginning she grabs your attention by making it baffling so you would have to read more to find out what it means. In the middle of the book she had surprises around every corner. Each chapter ended with a cliffhanger so the reader would have to keep reading to find out what happens next.

Suzanne Collins makes the mental picture so well by describing each scene with every detail being pointed out. It’s like watching a movie.

I would recommend this book to anybody who likes action, adventure, and suspense. This book is a real page-turner with conflict on almost every page.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Science Fiction

The Compound by S.A. Bodeen

a review by Cassidy Polzin 5 out of 5

The Compound Fiends, 2008,245pp,$6.99

Feiwel

and

S.A. Bodeen ISBN 978-0-312-57539-7 In the chronicle The Compound by S.A. Bodeen, A boy, Eli, and his family, were in a nuclear war or were they? Some of his family was left behind, he was told that his brother, Eddy his twin who was left out in the world that was under attack, so he was told. Eli is the main character. For six years he has lived in the compound, the compound is lie a save house for Eli and his family, for six years they have lived in the compound which from his dad’s calculations isn’t enough. The way out is kept only in side ones head who won’t let it out. When Eli finds out the code he is threatened to give the code back. He must put his memory and his sister’s brains to the test to find a way out of the prison his dad built for his family.

My opinion on the book is undecided. I like the book and think it tells the story well, but gets a little weird in some parts. The author wrote it well and made the so what clear.

I think that this novel has a good so what or note to the people who read it, the book dose not leave you hanging like many others. I recommend this memoir to people who like good reads.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Science Fiction

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

a review by Kevin Schnitzer 4 out of 5

The Hunger Games $8.99 Suzanne Collins

Scholastic Inc., 2008, 374 pp., ISBN 0-439-02348-3

Katniss Everdeen, a sixteen-year-old girl from District 12, is living a normal district life. That is, until her sister, Prim, is called into the Games, a fight to the death between people under eighteen years old from all over the nation. Of course, Katniss volunteers to take Prim’s place in the Hunger Games. President Snow, the president of Panem, a region formerly called North America, hosts these games every year, giving the winner a lifetime supply of food and money.

Katniss has to prepare for this contest of survival that she was dragged into. She can only hope she has the skills to succeed. But is it possible for her to pull through without losing Peeta, a friend of hers from childhood, to the games?

When I was reading The Hunger Games, I couldn’t stop turning page after page. I think it’s interesting because of the unique topic of the distant future of America, and because of how Collins made me feel her characters’ emotions.

I recommend Suzanne Collins’s exciting book, The Hunger Games, to people who like books that are full of action and suspense.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Science Fiction

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

a review by Gillian Walter 4 out of 5

UGLIES pp, $7.99 Scott Westerfeld 86538-1

Simon

Pulse,

2005,

425

ISBN

978-0-689-

The book UGLIES, revolves around Tally, 15, smart, adventurous, and the main character. All her life Tally's been unsure of who she really is, all she's wanted to be was "pretty". But as the operation nears, she meets a new friend, Shay. This girl isn't like the other girls in Uglyville, waiting for the operation. Shay is against the operation and prefers to be an "ugly". Four days before Shay has her operation she runs away to the Smoke, a town outside of Uglyville and New Pretty Town, where all the runaways hide from the operation. The next day Tally finds a note with directions, from Shay trying to persuade Tally to join her in the Smoke. That afternoon Tally gets kidnapped to special circumstances, there she discovers all about the Smoke, runaways, and it's history.

Why must they find the Smoke, the runaways, Shay? Why don't they just let them be? If I were in Tally's shoes right now,millions of questions would be running around in my head. With all this stress, Tally decides to blow off steam by crashing a "pretty" party. Which I feel isn’t the best choice. Because when your not welcome, something goes wrong.

This story is unlike any other science fiction book I've read.

It's more then just a good read, it’s romance, strategy, perseverance, and society. Once you’ve read UGLIES, you’ll want to continue the series. This is another riveting novel to read because there are so many twists and turns in every chapter, you start to get eager, and don't want to put the book down. And all this excitement continues in the whole series of UGLIES.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Science Fiction

Gone by Michael Grant

a review by Eric Wu 4 out of 5 Gone

Harper Teen, 2008, 558pp, $9.99

Michael Grant

ISBN 978-0-06-144878-2

“The blast narrowly missed Sam. It passed his head with a whoosh and hit the wall behind him.”

After a fire accident that nearly takes Sam Temple’s life, Sam is forced to face the facts. All parents and kids 15 and up are gone to who knows where. The kids are all trapped in a sealed off, God-forsaken land. Sam, a high school guy that lives in tiny Perdido Beach, has to lead the other kids to help them all survive.

When a group of kids from the nearby Coates academy comes by, the leader of their group, Caine, decides to name himself the leader of the group of kids. As things start to go wrong at Perdido, Sam suddenly starts to wonder what and whom he can really believe.

Everyday, 15 gets closer for Sam and everyday, he finds out more about his life then he had ever known before…including his connection to Caine.

Sides will be chosen, friends will be betrayed, and blood will be spilled as Sam and his friends struggle to find the answer to this madness.

Wit a breathtaking pace; action packed scenes, and undying wit and humor, Michael Grant’s suspenseful book is for everyone.

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS GENRE: Science Fiction

Life as We Knew it by Susan Beth Pfeffer

a review by Lexi Morgan 5 out of 5

Miranda, a typical sixteen year old, just wants to live a normal life, but when a meteor is about to crash into the moon, life is anything but.

The teachers assign homework, and all that’s on the news is facts about the meteor. Then everything that could possibly go wrong, goes wrong.

The meteor slides the moon out of place, closer to the earth, causing horrible natural disasters. Tsunamis, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and more are plaguing the world. Miranda and her family, consisting of her mother, and her two brothers, Jon and Matt, have to practically fight to survive in the strange, new world that has become of the earth.

Susan Beth Pfeffer illustrates Miranda’s hectic life, written in a diary form, explaining the obstacles that she and her family must overcome in order to stay alive.

If you like sci-fi, realistic fiction, and even a little romance, you will love the phenomenal first book in the last survivors’ trilogy, Life as We Knew it.

GENRE: Science Fiction

Gone by Michael Grant

a review by Lindsay Pederson 4 out of 5

Gone Publishers, 2008,558pp, $9.99

Haperteen

BOOK REVIEWS BY MRS. DAVIS’ 2010-­2011 CLASS MichaelGrant 978-0-06-144878-2 Fourteen-year- old Sam Temple was not one to keep secrets until he discovered a power he had, thinking it to be abnormal. But when parents, siblings, and teachers disappear, causing kids to fend for themselves, Sam could no longer bear it. More and more kids developed mutated powers and when teens from Coates Academy came to Perdido Beach, everything changed.

Caine, one of the most powerful kids in the FAYZ (Fallout Alley Youth Zone) and the so-called nicest kid ruined everything. He took over the FAYZ, overthrowing Sam the mayor, and causing big trouble. Many kids were hurt or killed during the FAYZ (surrounded by a huge barrier causing food and supplies to be cut off). No one knows what is outside of the wall surrounding Perdido Beach and the area around it and suspicion is forming that the world had ended and they were all that was left. Because of the barriers never-ending height and burning touch, it was impossible to get out. Sam must overtake Caine and get his control back in order to have order and there is no way of turning out. Sam also has a second problem. As soon as he turned fifteen he would disappear and Caine would rule. Sam has to find a way not to disappear so he can take control of Caine, and that has been proven to be difficult.

In the novel Gone, Michael Grant grasps and holds onto your attention with action, suspense, mystery, and intense fights. Many times I had to catch my breath because I had been holding it throughout an entire chapter because I was so hooked. I highly recommend the novel Gone, the very first in the book series.