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“Words are teeth,
and they eat me alive.
feed on my corpse instead”
These are the words scribbled on a note, pinned to David Kirby as he hangs from a tree. Along with that note, another was pinned to his limp body. It was loosely scribbled in black ball-point pen on a piece of worn notebook paper, and at the bottom, was a signature that read Cass McBride. In Gail Miles what happened to Cass McBride, David’s brother, Kyle Kirby, buries Cass McBride alive in order avenge what she has done to his brother. Cass is the most popular girl in school, a trend setter, the rich girl. Kyle on the contrary, is a blond haired lone, and weighted with the task of protecting his brother David ( the school dork), from their sadistic mother. The police have nearly no clue as to who would be the one to take her in the middle of the night. The investigation team, spearheaded by a police detective named Ben, are on an empty trail, interviewing, and trying to put the pieces together between the suicide of David, and the disappearance of Cass. meanwhile, its up to Cass herself in order to talk her way out through a two way radio and her skill to persuade people. One of the receivers is taped to her hand buried eight feet under in a make shift coffin. The other with Kyle Kirby. This exciting plot, and the array of colorful characters lead to “A smart, scary tale that moves like a bullet train” claims James Peterson. The writing style is perfect for the plot of this book. It is a mix between first person and third person perspective, depending on which character is currently the main character. The character switches off every chapter, which keeps the reader wanting more, but also allows you to see more of what’s going on, and better understand the plot. The only criticism I have for the book, is that I would of like a more detailed description of the setting. Otherwise, this novel is perfect for any reader who want a very fast paced novel, and are interested in just how much power, simple words can create. Because in this situation, Cass must use the only weapon she has… words.
-Joe R
Victoria McKernan’s novel Shackleton Stowaway is a compelling story of two men’s yearning to be part of a great adventure.
The story begins in 1914 with Perce Blackborow, an 18 year old boy from whales who had a stocky build, and strong arms for rowing. He had been working at sea since he was 14, and had tons of experience in sailing. His friend Billy Bakewell on the other hand, a bold, care free American who was only 26, seemed like he could do anything. He had little sailing experience though, having only been on 2 ships his whole life, but was built like a lumberjack. The two of them had been wondering around the port of Buenos Aires (in South America). Somehow they managed to acquire jobs as crew men aboard the 140 foot long ship, Endurance. Eventually after making the journey too Antarctica the great ship got stuck in the ice and it wasn’t until after, 3 years of being captives of the sub-zero climate and icy grounds, they were rescued and most survivors lived to tell the tale.
The overall suspense and drama this story provided kept me glued and makes it a complete must read for those who enjoy a story brimming with adventures and thrills. After reading it myself I would say it was one of my personal favorites. Also the authors exquisite style of writing is truly abiding. In addition, I would recommend this book to anybody and everybody, and if you only read one book this year Shackleton Stowaway is sure to be that book.
Chris H.
Dreamrider, is an exciting, suspenseful, page-turning novel by Barry Jonsberg that incorporates powerful language and actions to illustrate a boy’s journey into a new school, and how he confronts new people- friends, teachers, and even bullies. Dreamrider is set in Australia, around 2006. The main protagonist in this novel is tenth grader Michael Terny. Michael is a fat, newbie at his new school. This is his seventh school he has attended in only four years. Michael confronts new friends, teachers, and even bullies. He is used to getting bullied, due to the fact that he is fat. He eventually meets a new friend named Leah McIntyre, who is a girl that always watches out for Michael, and keeps him in a positive attitude. Martin Leechy is another friend Michael makes. He starts out a protagonist at the beginning, but as the story progresses, he befriends Michael. Jamie Archer is a major bully in the story that simply makes Michael’s life miserable.
One thing that was fascinating about the novel was the Jonsberg’s style of organization of the novel. It is divided into sections, each being a day of the week. This made it simple to follow the plot. The reason Michael is fat is because his mother passed away in a traffic accident, and he uses food as a stress reliever. He is also a lucid dreamer, which means the dreamer is able to control what happens. In relation to this, Michael’s father, also is unable to deal with the grief of the death of his wife, has his own way of relieving stress- guzzling down alcohol. Michael also lives with his step mom, whom Michael often relies on. Jonsberg utilizes powerful language (swearing, threatening, blackmailing), and actions (physical warfare, blood, intimidation). This is what makes this novel seem like you are watching a rated-R movie.
After reading this story, I would recommend reading this book for people (boys in particular) who enjoy violent movies, and games. It defines what a person can do with words and actions- truly.
Mihir P., 6th period
Book Review
Brad Barkley and Heather Heplers book Dream Factory, is a one where there is nothing but suspense in between the covers. Its about a bunch of teenagers who were hired to work in the Disney character costumes as the park tries to settle a strike. Ella, 17 year old that dresses up as Cinderella, goes through many tough experiences including the death of her brother and her parents traveling around the globe without her. She meets many new people and one of them is Luke, 17 year old that dresses up as Dale the chipmunk. As they secretly like each other they have to work together to win a scavenger that causes them to roam around the parks. They are competing against Cassie, Luke’s girlfriend. She controls him in a way that he is unaware of however everyone else sees it. Luke has to decide what he is going to do with his life, instead of being dressed up as Dale all day in the hot Florida sun, after the strike is settled.
I thought the authors description of how the characters feel and the setting is amazing. I enjoyed how every chapter switched off from Ella’s point of view to Luke’s. That way the reader the reader knows what is going on in both of their heads. The point the author is trying to give the readers is anything is possible…basically like it is magic. Many feelings flow through the reader as the books plot continues to the end. Like excitement, sadness, suspense, and more. The book is a great page turning hard to put down book.
This book is recommended to readers who like magic and secret romance. Ella and Luke meet in Disney World, also known as the kingdom of magic where anything can happen.
Amanda T. 6th period
My Sister's Keeper
Jodi Picoult has the reputation to leave an imprint. In My Sister’s Keeper, she did not fail. Anna is an ordinary 13-year old girl. She is just experiencing the teenage life – new interests in boys and sports. The only down side to her life is that her older sister, Kate, has leukemia and Anna is the donor. Not once, but many times was Anna there for Kate when she needed bone marrow or stem cells. As time goes by, Anna starts to believe that Kate can’t rely on her for everything.
Reading this book can make you feel as though the characters are real. The story is told from the viewpoint of many characters, those of which include Anna and Kate’s mother, father, and Anna’s lawyer. Never do I cry when I read books, but after reading My Sister’s Keeper, I take that back. The surprising ending will leave you speechless and reaching for the Kleenex.
This story of sisterhood is meant for everyone, mainly women of all ages. My Sister’s Keeper is a touching tale necessary to read if you have a close relationship with your sister. It is a book that will definitely change your way of thinking, and I’d say one of the best I’ve read!
Nicole B.
6th period
Could you imagine what would happen if you were just tried in the court of law for murder? Could you imagine the stress involved and the burden you have suddenly thrown on your family? Well that is something that David, in the book The Killer’s Cousin, written by Nancy Werlin, has just overcame. He was recently acquitted of murder for his old girlfriend Emily. Whether he did kill her or didn’t kill her, he still has to cope with the depressive guilt that goes along with her death and what he could have done to prevent it. He goes to live with his Aunt, Uncle, and cousin Lily. He finds out that they are also just recovering from the death of Lily’s sister. The novel’s gothic flavor, compelling minor characters, and subtle exploration of guilt and complicity adds texture to the tense psychological drama.
David moves to Massachusetts to live with them in an attempt to escape the notoriety of the trial so he can complete his senior year at high school. There, he becomes involved in a hostile relationship with his 11 year old cousin Lily. He is of course too inadequate to deal with this relationship because he is pre-occupied with dealing with his own remorse. Unfortunately, Lily feels obligated to test his forbearance. She is inconvertibly persuaded that he killed Emily. She wants to know if he will ever kill again. The parents, on the other hand, are nothing like Lily. Vic is eagerly compliant to have David staying at his house. Julia is quite the opposite. Her inhospitable attitude makes David feel unsought and puts a toll on her marriage with Vic. They eventually wont even talk to each other, and have to communicate through Lily. The overall theme in this novel is guilt. It’s about the burden of guilt and living with it for the rest of your lives.
I would recommend this book to teenagers who like a great, mysterious, and suspenseful thriller. The ending was most definitely my favorite part of this novel because of how twisted and shocking it was. It is a psychological thriller that makes one question if we are all capable of being a killer and what makes one cross the line.
~Scott K. Period 6
Ellen Hopkins has written a tragic tail, of three teens struggling with their lives. As in her other books, a bizarre and different topic is written about. The battle between a perfect or normal life, and the inner demons of suicide and drugs. Impulse is a documentation of three teens, almost adults, who try to commit suicide. Together they use each other to cope with addiction and highly unwanted family visits. Conner, Vanessa, and Tony are eighteen year old kids whose life journeys cross paths in Aspen Springs, a rehabilitation center in Nevada. All with a different story and harsh secrets; such as love, and murder.
Impulse is written in a series of poems. Although from the looks, a six-hundred and sixty six page novel looks intimidating, each page only contains about twenty lines, or two stanzas. If read all together, a fascinating story is told. While reading this, a feeling of appreciation of the life one has, and sympathy come over the reader. Not only appreciation and sympathy, but also anticipation. After about three pages from the perspective of Conner, the role switches and the story is told from Tony’s point of view. Usually, one character will be talking about how they are thinking hard about something, and then another character will say such things as “Conner sat alone, with a distraught look on his face.” The different perspectives add to the uniqueness of the story. Many twists and turns occur in this outstanding story of life. This tale leaves readers with answers and conclusions. The small details in the story do not make sense with their relevance to the story, but as the story progresses, they become significant.
I would recommend anyone to read this book because the feelings of the teenagers can be related to a person and their experiences. The advantage of having the three main characters is because all three had different lifestyles before rehab, and it causes them to act in different ways. If you want complex, yet easy to follow, read Impulse.
Jordan W. 6th hour
What would you do if you had the ability to teleport whenever you wanted? The book Jumper by Steven Gould tells the story of a boy named Davy who had the ability to do just that. Davy has the ability to “jump” where he teleports to places he has seen or been to before. Because of his mother leaving when he was five, and because of his abusive father, he runs away and, using his teleporting abilities, robs a bank and now lives a good life in his apartment in New York where much of the story takes place. One day he goes to a play and meets Millie who he later starts dating. He finds out that someone, like him, is also being abused in their home, so he uses his powers to help the woman. The husband is a police officer and he started investigating after Davy jumped him to a park. Davy found out that he was being investigated so he moves to Stillwater, Oklahoma where Millie is attending college. Millie finds out that Davy is being chased by the police and breaks up with him. Now the NSA (National Security Administration) is getting involved in the case. They have Brian Cox investigate. Brian is a violent man and will do what he needs to do to accomplish his goals, so Brian kidnaps Millie in order to get to Davy. Davy does not like this so he goes out for revenge.
Steven Gould fills this book with action from front to back. Even from the first chapter, the action is immense. I highly recommend this book to readers of suspense, action, or adventure novels. If you like constant action in a book that is impossible to put down, Jumper is for you.
/mattv6th
Jere Longman, although a man himself, describes and admits to how much harder women have to try compared to men to get respect when it comes to playing sports. Jere Longman, the author of the book, The Girls of Summer, writes this book expecting that the reader already knows everything about soccer. This is why the book is very hard to follow if you do not know much about soccer. On the other hand Longman writes in a way that inspires the reader. As you read The Girls of Summer you have the strong erg to get up and go do something that you never had the confidence to do before.
Being the youngest soccer player ever to play for a national soccer team, men or women, Mia Hamm would be a huge inspiration to everyone that needs the courage to go after there dreams. An example from the book, “We were just so happy our game had come this far. In our minds, the sport had won. That was most important. We still had a job to do, but we had accomplished a lot.” Mia Hamm. Throughout the book Hamm is shown as being very modest. Hamm is the best shooter on the national women’s soccer team, but still she doubts herself. Hamm and the rest of her teammates have gotten to be where they are today because of a man named, Tony DiCicco. At times it seems like his players want to kill him, but it is how hard he is on them, which makes them so great. Over all this is an easy read book for soccer players. If you wanted to learn a thing or two about soccer, this would be a good book to try and pick up and read also.
I would recommend this book, The Girls of Summer, to any women trying to play a sport in this “mans world” we live in today. It is very easy to connect to what the book is talking about, which is why it is such a hard book to put down. After reading The Girls of Summer I was personally inspired, this book gave me the confidence to never give up and I think it will do the same for you if you just read it.
Kelsey O.
Mrs.Lovi 6th
Jennifer Government
Max Barry wrote an amazing futuristic novel that could become a prophecy. Jennifer Government takes place in the future of people when their last name consists of the company you work for. This novel is used as a perspective through numerous characters and their interesting live. In the novel, a government agent named Jennifer Government tries to track down a murderer named John Nike. Many problems happen like 14 people are killed for Nike shoes by John Nike’s evil spirit. These characters in the book do not seem alike, but they are intertwined for an explosive ending to make you want more.
This book acts as viewpoints in an overall electric ending that will stun you. Jennifer Government is a good book for people who like things about fantasy. I would recommend this book to older people or people who are involved in business. This book left me amazed with all of the action and twists. For me, after the first few chapters, I realized I wouldn’t be able to predict what would happen next. So, if you like surprises, you should read this book. Overall, I would rate this book 6.5 stars out of 10 starts because this book is very challenging for a teenager. But for older people from college and up, I would strongly recommend this book.
Bryan A. 6th period
What would you do if you had the ability to teleport whenever you wanted? The book Jumper by Steven Gould tells the story of a boy named Davy who had the ability to do just that. Davy has the ability to “jump” where he teleports to places he has seen or been to before. Because of his mother leaving when he was five, and because of his abusive father, he runs away and, using his teleporting abilities, robs a bank and now lives a good life in his apartment in New York where much of the story takes place. One day he goes to a play and meets Millie who he later starts dating. He finds out that someone, like him, is also being abused in their home, so he uses his powers to help the woman. The husband is a police officer and he started investigating after Davy jumped him to a park. Davy found out that he was being investigated so he moves to Stillwater, Oklahoma where Millie is attending college. Millie finds out that Davy is being chased by the police and breaks up with him. Now the NSA is getting involved in the case. They have Brian Cox investigate. Brian is a violent man and will do what he needs to do to accomplish his goals, so Brian kidnaps Millie in order to get to Davy. Davy does not like this so he goes out for revenge.
Steven Gould fills this book with action from front to back. Even from the first chapter, the action is immense. I highly recommend this book to readers of suspense, action, or adventure novels. If you like constant action in a book that is impossible to put down, Jumper is for you.
/mattv 6th
James Frey has truly written a novel of our lifetime. It shall always be remembered, as the intense and horrifying stories of one’s struggle as an addict. A Million Little Pieces depicts the complications and difficulties one must face, in order to live with the idea that they are, or has once been an addict. Frey has classified this novel as a personal memoir; however, due to complications with the accuracy of the book, it is now classified as a fiction novel that has perhaps been based on true events. The novel takes place in a drug rehabilitation center in Minnesota. Frey describes himself as the main character, and he also describes the people that impacted him the most throughout this experience. Frey describes the bonding friendship he shared with a man named Leonard, who he describes to have saved his life. Frey also describes the love that has blossomed between himself, and a woman named Lilly, which brings hope an terror to the reader, as Frey describes the situations Lilly was once in, and how they have to work together to try to stay healthy.
Frey’s writing style is truly unique. He writes with no quotations during speech and dialogue, and he also uses repetition to represent the significance of certain memories, beliefs, or actions. Frey writes in a way that resembles the way the mind thinks, so you will find yourself feeling connected to Frey himself, his thoughts, and the other characters that he had meaningful relationships with.
If you find yourself interested in books that involve struggle, depression, drugs and relationships, Frey’s A Million Little Pieces is a book you will enjoy exponentially. This book depicts intense situations that may change your opinion on the characters for the worse or better. It is very dramatic, although, there is some sort of humor that is involved with the way certain characters act or think, or their personalities.
-Maya C, 6th hour
Along Way Gone book review
The sound of gun shots going off in my head is what you are imagining while reading this book. Ishmael Beah who not only lived through this but also talks to people about what had happened. Ishmael who was in his young teens goes out with his brother Junior and friends to another village to compete in a talent show but instead of competing they are fighting for their lives trying to survive to see their family again.
With out a doubt this book Along Way Gone has been an excellent novel to read. It has truly been hard to put the book down and turn away from this very graphic novel. Some of the stuff he stated in the book shocked me on how that is going on in this day an age. I can’t believ e teenagers like Ishmael had to be turned into soldiers and fight for there freedom every chance they had. I still can’t get some images out of my head for example, while hiding in the bushes he notice a young woman with her child on her back yet the young woman did not realize that the baby had a bullet in the back of her head. Now that is only one of many other graphic lines he stated in the book. You will have to read this book to find out more.
I truly believe people who like shooters and like a graphic book or movie then they should read this. From my stand point this book had no down side so I rate this book a 10 out of 10. You to should see what this book is about and be stunned by what is really happening in Africa even today.
Duffy L, 7th period
Zach’s Lie by: Roland Smith
Imagine you are going to be forced into hiding because of something you did not do, and having to be careful about everything you do? This is the case for Zach Granger, previously Jack Osborne. He and his family are moved to Elko, Nevada to avoid a man named Alonso Aznar, who is after them. Zach’s father was a fighter pilot during the Gulf War, and was arrested for drug trafficking. Now Zach and his family must change their identities and their appearance. While Alonso and his hit men were searching for the Grangers in Elko, Zach and his family are trying to blend in. There, Zach meets Sam Sabesta, a custodian and play manager at Zach’s school, and Cataline, a friend who help’s Zach adapt to his new life. However, when everything was starting to go good, pugnacious bully Peter Short becomes skeptical of Zach’s identity. Later, he finds one of Zach’s personal journals, which reveals his real identity as Jack
Osborne…
The style of writhing the author provides is fairly good. He also uses high school literature elements to help move the story along. This actually is one of the disappointments for this novel. A lot of the excitement takes place in the beginning and end, leaving the middle more bland and buildup. Also, there are too many antagonists in the novel. Antagonists include Alonso, three of his hit men, and Peter. Protagonists are Zach, Sam, and Cataline. Another disappointment is that the author does not use as creativity as he could have. It is simply the life of a timid boy, but in the Witness Protection Program. However, there is enough creativity to not make a reader put the book down excessively. After reading the end, the book leaves you satisfied, and basically tells you that there will be a sequel. The ending is actually some what predictable.
Overall, this book is a good read, but has its flaws. Personally, I recommend Zach’s Lie to most readers. However, people who want a consistently fast paced plot for a novel, leave this one on the shelf.
Evan J. per 7th
The Lovely Bones
Susie Salmon was killed on December 6, 1973. The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold, is a gruesome and extremely detailed retelling of Susie’s life before, during, and after her murder, from her point of view. Susie is 14 years old when she is killed. Therefore, she stays that same age as the story proceeds, even as the loved ones she watches grow older. Her parents, brother, and sister all take her death completely differently. And there are also two other people that end up confiding in each other because they were so deeply affected by her death. Most of the lives that she is explaining throughout the story are sad, touching, even exciting, but the hardest to hear about is that of her killer. Every little detail of his life is sickening, but makes it impossible to stop reading. The character have their separate views and its almost like reading a few different stories mixed into one.
In addition, the authors style was a little out there for me. It was extremely detailed and at some points, pretty gruesome. There were also points where it got hard to read. The way the author would randomly go into a detailed explanation about a certain character or situation, would get confusing. Also, the fact that it was basically a couple stories in one, switching from story to story became kind of hard to follow.
In the long run, this book was very interesting, and kept me at the edge of the seat. It would most likely appeal to teens, specifically girls. Mostly because it’s pretty emotional, and also comes from a girl’s point of view. Overall, The Lovely Bones was a phenomenal book and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an interesting story.
Ellen Miller. 7th hour.
Scared, on edge, excited, happy, these are all feelings that you will get when reading The Amber Room. Steve Berry has mastered the art of keeping readers on the edge of their seats. It is an intense thriller that I could not put down. It tells the story of many people on a quest for the amber room. Rachel Cutler, a judge from Atlanta, starts on her quest after her father mysteriously dies. Paul Cutler, Rachel’s ex husband and a lawyer from Atlanta, follows after Rachel to Germany after discovering she is in grave danger. Christian Knoll and Suzanne Danzer are both employees for some of the wealthiest people in the world who enjoy collecting thought to be lost art, by whatever means necessary. When the collectors and the Cutlers paths cross during the quest for the amber room , it turns into a dangerous hunt with putting their lives at stake. People are killed and lines are crossed as the Cutlers do all they can to stay alive and see their kids again.
Berry has written a five star thriller that will be remembered. High speed chases and betrayal will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Berry also does a great job at incorporating history into his fun to read, hard to put down novel. He has interesting facts about art and the rise and fall of the Nazis that is bound to captivate you. The relationships in this book are also very interesting. Despite being divorced Paul and Rachel Cutler remain close to each other and deeply care for each other. Berry also expresses his thoughts on mans capability to be evil. This is shown in some of the gruesome things that the characters do to each other.
I recommend this book for readers who enjoy action thriller and art. This book will change the way you thin k about the Soviets and Nazis and the way you think about treasure hunting. It is a gripping book that is impossible to put down.
Sir Andrew Bradford Merkle IV 7th hour
BOOK REVIEW
Jon Krakauer has written an intense book for people of this age to enjoy. If you’re read it correctly this could show you how dangerous Mount Everest can be, and how it could affect your life. Into Thin Air by John Krakauer is based off of John Krakauer real life experience on top of the world’s highest point Mount Everest. It shows the tragedy of how nature can take a man’s life. But beside tragedy it is a fun and intense book to read that was very much enjoyed by me.
John Krakauer’s book is narrated by himself. This is a story about John Krakauer’s experience on Mount Everest. Ever since he was a little boy his dream was like no other kids. His dream was to climb Mount Everest. John Krakauer was a consistent climber who took a break for awhile. He was convinced to finally get enough money and approach his life long dream of getting to the top of Everest. He starts to head toward the top of the great mountain that was filled with many different types of people. Some races actually bothered Jon Krakauer. He finally reaches his dream of getting to the top of Mount Everest. While descending he runs out he runs out of oxygen and he has to hurry to the closest base to get oxygen which he does successfully. When he finally starts descending to the bottom a storm hits causing tragedy and life grievance.
I think this is a novel everyone should read. I give this book 10 out of 10. It was well written and exciting. You can not put this book down it is impossible. This book describes the biggest disaster ever experienced by anyone on Mount Everest ever. If I read this book a liked it then you should defiantly read this book. I think that everyone no matter who you are should read this book.
Michael H, 7th period
13 reasons why.
“ Don’t give up on me now. I’m sorry. I guess that’s an odd thing to say. because isn’t that what I’m doing? giving up? Yes. as a matter of fact, I am and that, more than anything is what it comes down to. Me… giving up… on me”
In the book, 13 reasons why, by Jay Asher, a high school boy, Clay comes home one day to find a package at his door, it was address to him. What is it? A box of audio tapes? With no return address? Yes, Clay receives a box of thirteen little cassette tapes. He soon finds out the tapes were recorded by Hannah Baker, a classmate of his who had committed suicide only two weeks ago. Clay had worked and attended school with Hannah, and had always secretly had a thing for her, but was too afraid of what she might think. Hannah instructs that the tapes must be sent to each person on the list, each person had a story explaining how they “contributed” to Hannah’s death. Clay is one of the last of the people who received these tapes, and can not understand why he is on this list.. what did he ever do to Hannah? How did he ever hurt her? Sending the tapes was Hannah’s way of showing people that you actions can affect more than just you, sometimes they have a long term affect on other people as well.
I really enjoyed the style of writing Asher used. When Clay pushed play on the walkman, Hannah began telling her stories recorded on the tape, but it felt as though she was telling them directly to you, rather than to Clay. When it was paused, normal life resumed. Clay often would pause to tell us about his thoughts on the situation, or to share a memory he had with Hannah. He also stopped to take a break from the Hannah’s voice and just return to his normal life for a little. This constant stop and go made it a bit hard to follow at times, but also was useful when you needed clarification on something Hannah had said. I did not like how the author purposely left out a lot of details to keep you wondering about people, he leaves you hanging at the end.
I thought this book was fantastic. I would recommend it to anyone around from eight grade or older due to some mature content and situations. If you enjoy suspense books you would also like this book, the author keeps you wonder about a lot of the details and the ending leaves you with a few unanswered questions.
Antonia C
7th period
Dragon Rider, by Cornelia Funke
There are very few books that have ever been written where someone would willingly read them habitually. I think is time one more was added to that list. Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke is a book that will out last the test of time. Funke’s descriptions of characters, settings, and feeling allow readers to dive into the action along with Ben, Firedrake, Sorrel, and Twigleg. You feel as though you are struggling along side the characters and the reader is able to feel as though he or she is bonding with each character page by page.
This story is about a thin fifteen year old boy named Ben, a medium sized silver dragon named Firedrake, and a small forest brownie named Sorrel. Firedrake and Sorrel were forced from their homes because of humans plan to flood their valley. Their only hope is to return to the place where they once lived in peace, the rim of heaven. Along the way they make interesting friends including Ben and Twigleg that help them through there testing times and fulfill an ancient prophecy.
I have always loved fantasy books and enjoy reading about mythical creatures of supernatural powers. Dragon Rider contains creatures that possess supernatural powers and even though they are aware of how to use them, even they don’t have the knowledge to fully explain them. Funke wrote this book using both detailed descriptions and dialogue, so as to develop character personalities better. As an overall rating for this book I would give it an 8 out of 10 because it was what any reader would call “A page turner,”. Funke loaded this book with suspense and trying situations to test each of the characters.
Alex Klaas
The Fortunes of Indigo Skye – Deb Caletti
What would you do if you were given 2.5 million dollars? Well that is a question Indigo Skye must face in the book The Fortunes of Indigo Skye. Deb Calleti has given a very insight full book on the affects of large amounts of money and how it can change a person instantly. Indigo Skye is a young 18yr old waitress from a small town near Seattle. Indigo and her family don’t have a lot of money, so when Indigo is given 2.5 million dollars it’s a huge shock. At first Indigo tries to return the money to the owner, but when they refuse to take it back Indigo is at a loss of how to use her new bank balance. Indigo gets greatly influenced and overwhelmed with the money, at first she goes shopping and buys some of the new things her family needs (such as cell phones). Eventually she gets caught up in the life of the wealthy. Indigo gets too overwhelmed by the money and the power that it holds.
The Fortunes of Indigo Skye is full of underlying meanings and psychological questions. Deb Caletti describes the characters and their actions in such great detail. This book is very descriptive and well thought out; you can almost picture each scene in your head. The relationships between the characters are so well connected and all the characters have a great chemistry. Deb Caletti is a great author who puts a lot of thought and detail into her books. There are so many underlying meanings of how you life is effected that you can’t help, but to put yourself in the position of the character. The story line Gives an amazing insight into the power of money and influence it has on a person, as well as their thoughts and actions.
Many People will enjoy this book. The book really makes you think about life and gives you a lot of insight into how the world around us works and thinks. If you enjoy the great detail and deep thought put into many other books, The Fortunes of Indigo Skye should be on the top of your list for this year.
Jessica L. – 8th hour
While I Live Book Review
“Already I was getting back into the ways of thinking that had kept me alive during the war. It’s like riding a bicycle-you never forget, you click back into it without a moment’s conscious thought.” John Marsden, the author of many series and classics, describes the life of two juvenile’s lives changed and challenged after many events cause their lives to become difficult to handle. Ellie and her newly adopted brother Gavin are on an adventure to stay alive after recovering from a long war and still facing invasions and attacks from outside guerilla fighters. They are left on their own at their parents Linton Ranch after the adult authority was taken away forever. After the parents are gone, Ellie and Gavin have a tough time moving through life with the burden of their mis-guided parents. Their lives are in danger everyday with constant border raids. Life becomes challenging when Ellie has to make a decision to continue her domestic and school life or to join the local guerilla fighters at war.
The book explains these events on the border of where Ellie and Gavin live in the town of Wirrawee on an abandoned ranch left behind by their parents. The author, John Marsden, helps describe the complicating life of the two and makes you feel like you are really involved in the book and experiencing first hand what the characters endure. The author places the characters in a tough spot where they have to face being kicked of the ranch by Lee and Homer and Ellie making the biggest decision of her life.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the war-like life and edge of the seat suspense that keeps you entertained but curious as the book progresses. The author helps put you in spots where you don’t know what is coming next or what to expect and in the process develops the story of a teenage life on their own during wartime.
Aaron F
8th Period
What Happened to Cass McBride by: Gail Giles
“She’s dead isn’t she?” Not exactly. Cass McBride- a wealthy, pretty, popular school girl- has gone missing. Nobody (except the reader) knows where or why she is taken. Cass is not just taken, she is buried alive. The kidnapper, Kyle Kirby, is a college kid with an abusive mother. The reader, alongside the police, discover why she is kidnapped.
The book keeps the reader turning pages. Instead of chapters, the book is told in different point of views. Many readers will begin to have a favorite point of view and look forward to that one again. This keeps you turning pages. While reading, you put together pieces of the puzzle as to why the kidnapping has taken place. Once you have it figured out, you find yourself yelling to the police men, “IT’S SO OBVIOUS COME ON!”. It is an interesting way to keep the reader intrigued. When a character is telling their point of view, as soon as it starts to get good, a new character will begin talking and you will have to continue reading to get to what you were waiting for. However this happens for all characters so you never want to put down the book.
Overall, it is a great book. It is a fun book to read, because the reader is
very engaged and you feel as if you are one of the police. Although just when
you think you have it figured out, you get even more information thrown at you.
There is only one problem I have with the book, and that is that it is too easy to
figure out. All the things you need to tie together are given to you. Right away you
learn why most major things are happening because of Cass’s point of view. She
talks directly to Kyle about why he did this to her while the police and everyone
else are trying to figure it out. For this reason I would give this book 4 out of 5
stars because it is a page turner you won’t want to put down until you finish it and leaves you wanting more.
Tommy L., 8th Period
Sunrise over Fallujah
Imagine walking through an active war zone not knowing who the enemy is and worrying if you will make it back home alive. Walter Meyers Sunrise Over Fallujah is about the cause and effects of the Iraq war. The book includes the facts and terrors of war through the eyes of the main character a rather quiet soldier named Perry a.k.a. “Birdy” and his squad. Marla the “tell it how it is” gunner, Jonesy the blues man, and Coles the humorous captain. The Squads mission “Operation Iraqi Freedom” starts in the middle east in Kuwait, the armies safe area or green zone and moves into Iraq. Since the war is in the final stage the squad doesn’t encounter any major resistance, but war may still be fatal for some soldiers in Perry’s Squad.
Perry keeps in touch with his family by writing them letters and emails. He writes most of them to his Uncle Richie who Perry looks up to because he fought in the Vietnam war. The letters provide a summary of the chapter while being an integrated part of the novel.
Meyers did a good job with the book providing some humor, action, and realism, while also being creative with things like the letters and actual events of the war. the book is very correct and matches the events of the actual war which some may find interesting. If you are interested in a good action book then Sunrise Over Fallujah is the book for you. I know I liked the book and if it sounds appealing then so will you.
jon v.
8th hour
The author of the book High Heat, Carl Deuker has written many novels. But I have only read this book, which I found rather exciting. Shane is a sophomore pitcher on his baseball team at Shorelake High School. The setting of the story takes place in Seattle, Washington. He is one of the toughest pitchers to face when he is on the mound, and his job as a relief pitcher is to take over in crucial innings of a game. He has a sister named Mariana and his mother and father (he owns a car dealership). As the book goes on Shane and his family overcome a problem that his dad has caused with his business. Shane’s father harbors a huge secret from his son. Shane and his family eventually find out what the secret is when the cops show up at his house. They find out that his father has been arrested for money laundering. As him and his family move on throughout this difficult situation. They have to move to a tiny run-down apartment.
I feel that it was easy to comprehend what the author was trying to say. I felt rather close to this book because it has to do with baseball and adventure, which are some of my favorite habits. This book would connect best with anybody who the loves the game of baseball, but at the same time likes a good run for their money. I can relate to this book because when I screw up during a game, I feel so bad that I shouldn’t even play anymore.
Everyone should read the book High Heat. This book will have you so excited, that when your done you’ll want to play baseball right away. If you have time to read a good book, then I recommend this book.
Nick L. 6th Period
Kenneth Oppel’s book Airborn is a very descriptive story. Most of kens works are written similarly. The pin point detail of his writings makes the main character, matt cruse, life a lasting memory in our minds.
From the get-go matt’s journey is captivating. Oppel starts by not only introducing matt, but by introducing Kate as well. Matt’s obvious gravitation towards her leads a reader to wonder what shenanigans the two will get into. Most readers would also assume that they might fall in love, the question of when is what drives the reader to keep going.
Most of the story takes place on an airship. Although there are chapters with an undiscovered island. While you read, matt describes the scene and the people around him from his own view which lets u inside the mind of the main character.
~Andrew 7th hour
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