PERIOD+2+BOOK+REVIEWS

PERIOD 2 - POST YOUR BOOK REVEIWS BELOW...

By Andre H. Dear Batman,
 * __The Morningstar Strain: Plague of The Dead Book Review__**

I know an apocalypse is the last thing you would want. There would be no crime or justice. By the time you read this, I'll be dead. I'll make this nice and simple. Two groups of people you need to protect are meeting at Omaha, Nebraska to find a cure for the Morningstar Strain. Here is the detailed sitrep.

General Sherman, widely known for helping refugees in Africa, has come across the first of the zombie outbreak. A couple of months ago he came to America trying to get to the Deaculition Co. in Omaha, Nebraska. He is meeting an NSA agent, a reporter, and someone you must protect as a primary objective. Anna Demilio knows everything about Morningstar Strain. She has a chance at finding a cure. General Sherman is leading a group of soldiers. During all this, Mason, the NSA agent, has an enemy. You'd be surprised who it is. It's NSA. You need to help that trio get to Omaha at all costs with no trouble at all. NSA is a group of mercenaries trained for battle, you'd better be careful. I never told you what the apocalypse is all about though. General Sherman won't have much trouble getting to Omaha though, he has an armored car with him and a couple of turrets. If they meet at Omaha they're is a good chance at a vaccine, but they're is someone hiding in a town with something that could make a cure. It's like that one movie, the Andromeda Strain except its worse. The only chance for a cure is here and now, you need to help those people. Do your best.

General Sherman is taking shelter in a city in Kansas. They have survived. General Sherman should be leaving it soon though. This is like that one book, Roses of Blood on Barbwire Vines. Your favorite. Be careful, you don't want to die. Or worse, be a zombie.

Good hunting, - Andre Hochmuth

BOOK REVEIW BY GARRETT OLSEN; INCA GOLD, BY CLIVE CUSSLER He grabbed the old mattress and two long daggers, he jumped off the steep pyramid And he slid down, going faster.

Inca Gold, by Clive Cussler is a really good book It's full adventure, I hope I caught you with my hook

This book reminds me of a guy his name was Indiana Jones He tends to save the day a lot like Dirk Pitt, my homes

I hope you read this book, I really hope you do 'Cuz I did and I liked it And I think that you would too

BOOK REPORT BY Bruce Gammonley ON __Dead Connection__ by Charlie Price in RAP FORM:

Yo. Murray talks to dead people; dead as a doornail people One day he hears a dead girl Dead people are gross, they make me want to HURL

//(cue barf sound effect)//

Boom-ta boomboomboomboom-tata

Now this dead girl a-wanted Murray to find the man, the man who killed her Ye-ah, it was a MURDER that did done her in.

//(cue scream sound effect)//

Boom-ta boomboomboomboom-tata

There was this drunk cop Yeah not a very good cop Murray made him mad And the cop fired a shot A-BANGBANG A-BANGARANG! The gun sang out.

//(cue gunshot effect)//

Boom-ta boomboomboomboom-tata

A witness saw who killed the girl Y'know, the one that makes me HURL The witness, though. He couldn't remember WHAT? The killer looked like WHAT? The killer looked like WHAT? The killer looked like.

Boom-ta boomboomboomboom-tata

Murray used to hang out at the tombs, the graveyard, the mausoleum yeah, the rooms where DEAD PEOPLE were BURIED This is what made the drunk cop MAD

Boom-ta boomboomboomboom-tata Murray befriended the Gravekeep's daughter Who he thought could help him.

Boom-ta boomboomboomboom-tata

Will the witness remember? Maybe with the help of A good cop? Will Murray survive? Maybe with the help of A hospital worker? What made the girl die? Maybe A pipe wrench?

Boom-ta boomboomboomboom-tata

Read the book to find out Read the book to find out Read the book to find out. ..

Boom-ta boomboomboomboom-tata

I would recommend this book to those who'd like to take a look Into a fictional murder case A three out of five star case. Yeah, three because the author seemed detached from the story.

(WORD!)

__The Boy in the Striped Pajamas__ __Book Review__ __By:__ __Sydney D.__

The novel, __The Boy in the Striped Pajamas__ by John Boyne, is based off of World War I times in Germany. The book itself is a book is about two boys, from completely different backgrounds, families, cultures, religions, and childhoods, that become best friends for life and go on several imaginary adventures together. What makes the adventures so imaginary is that the boys are on different sides of the “fence.” The boys' names are Bruno and Shmuel. At the beginning of the plot, Bruno is a very shy, lonely, rich, scared, and bored little boy. After Bruno meets Shmuel, his life takes off. He transforms into an interesting, happy, and excited young man. This all comes crashing down in one tragic event.

I, personally, think that the movie, “The Boy in the Striped Pajamas,” is very similar to the book. In both, Bruno and Shmuel become best friends. Thus, they go on adventures together in the book and the movie. Not to mention, the same tragic event, that stops you thinking as you know it, occurs too. Also, this whole entire storyline reminds me of the Holocaust Museum in Chicago, Illinois. Inside the whole building is pictures and stories from diaries, that tell the tale of the gruesome facts about World War I, the concentration camps, and after the the war. When I visited the museum, myself, I felt the sadness of the room and to tears of fear. What was really sad, was the fact that there was a whole entire, 20 foot, wall in the back of the museum that was covered in names of the people of who's bodies were discovered at concentration camps. They also said that thousands of other bodies were unable to be identified. This fact is the one that felt like a bomb was set off in my heart. All of these sad stories, I could get from just one book.

Even though, this book has a lot of sad content, I would recommend this book the ages 12 to 112. This book, __The Boy in the Striped Pajamas__, has a lot of tough ideas that make it very easy to connect to. Everybody goes through complicated times every once in a while, and this book just tells you, “You aren't alone.” Also, all parents are looking for a book to read to get them thinking, "Life is good," while they are dealing with anonoying teenagers. This is the book for that particular reason.

To recapitulate, the book, __The Boy in the Striped Pajamas__ by John Boyne, is a heart-felt story about two best friends who go on adventures together.

__**Evernight Dictionary Book Review**__ Action Packed (noun, adjective)- Surprises at every corner.
 * By: Murphy M.**

Bianca Olivier (noun) – The main character who is a shy, frumpy girl who is dreading her new school, Evernight Academy.

Crowds (noun)- Have you ever looked for somebody in a huge crowd? Everybody has, including Bianca when she searches for Lucas at orientation.

Defending a Woman's Honor (noun, adjective, adverb) – Every girl dreams of her knight in shining armor, Lucas is Bianca's; Lucas get into a fight with construction workers when they made a rude remark about Bianca while the two love birds are on their first date.

Erique (noun) – Erique is the cool guy at school that everybody likes, he gets a little crazy and starts to stalk Raquel.

Evernight Academy ( noun) – A castle, used as a boarding school with rich, snobby students. Bianca is considered a “misfit”.

Forest (noun) – A dark, creepy, mysterious forest right on the border of the Evernight boundaries. What does this remind you of? I don't know about you, but I thought about the famous, creature filled forest of __Harry Potter__.

__Harry Potter__ and __Twilight__ combination (noun,adjective) – A private boarding school, with a little bit of romance, and a shocking secret.

Jewlrey (noun) - "Dimonds are a girl's best friend," Any kind of jewlrey is amazing, as long as it's not cheap, especially if the girl has been keeping an eye on it. Just like Bianca was keeping her eye on a beautiful, light purple broach with a silver backing. Whenever I hear the word jewlrey, the jingle "Every kiss begins with Kay" plays in my mind.

Lucas (noun) - A boy who Bianca meets at the beginning of the story while she is trying to escape at the last possible moent, right then and there it is love at first sight for the two new kids at Evernight Academy. Suddenly, Lucas gets a wound to his neck, will the cut also effect their realationship?

Mr. and Mrs. Olivier (noun) - These amazing teachers at Evernight also happen to be Bianca's parents. They are Bianca's ticket to popularity.

Raquel (noun) - Another "misfit" at Evernight, she is also Bianca's best friend.

Revealing Secrets (noun, adjective) - You can't predict anything about anybody.

Shyness (noun) - Everybody get's shy once in a while, not Bianca. She is shy all the time.

Suspense (adjective) - You never know what is going ot happen next.

__The Uglies Book Review__ By: Laura P. The Uglies by Scott Westerfeld captures the reader in a world of strange surgeries to become “pretty” and get unknown lesions put in your head. Tally lives in Uglyville where everyone awaits the moment they turn sixteen, so that they can have a surgery to turn pretty. When you turn pretty, you go to New Pretty Town where you have wild parties and a ton of fun every night. Pure bliss right? Not exactly; what these bubbly headed pretties don't understand is that their brains have been altered during the surgery.

When Tally's best friend, Peris, turns sixteen before her, Tally is friendless and alone in Uglyville. After she meets an new rambunctious friend, Shay, who teaches her how to hoverboard and play tricks on new uglies, Tally's time as an ugly is almost over. The night before she is going to turn sixteen, Shay meets Tally under a bridge where she tells Tally her plan to escape to the Smoke, a city out in the wild where uglies run away to if they don't want to turn pretty. Despite Shay's persistant pleas for her to come along, Tally desides she would rather stay and turn pretty like everyone else. But, Tally's operation gets postponed until she can perform a mission for the head of the city. The mission is for her to follow Shay's confusing directions to the Smoke and then send a signal so that the city can finally find the hidden city and capture the runaways at last. After a long dangerous journey Tally makes it to the Smoke, and decides to hold off on sending the signal. After a few days she starts to enjoy her time in the Smoke. Then she is stuck with a decision, betray the Smoke or stay there forever and never turn pretty. Whatever Tally will choose will change her life forever.

This book kept you thinking while keeping you facinated by the well written science fiction, romance, and adventure novel. This book was very similar to the book __The Giver.__ It reminded me of __The Giver__ because of the storng differences in society that were put into effect to uliminate war and other problems with todays society. This book also reminded me of the book __Wild Man Island__ by Will Hobbes because they both were very exciting adventure stories.

In the end, I would strongly reccomend this book to most people. It was a great adventure story that also included science fiction and a little bit of romance. It is fast moving and you will find yourself never wanting to put it down. If you want a well written capturing story to read, I would definetly reccomend this book!

__Dragon's Nest Book Review__ By Jake C. Dear Emily Rodda, Your book, __Dragon's Nest,__ is a great thriller that excites the mind in so many great ways. Each individual character like King Lief, Barda, Jasmine, the Shadow Lord, and Josef all give the story a different perspective. One of the most exciting parts in my opinion was when the crystal of the shadow people had been replaying memories from decades ago and then Lief, Barda, and Jasmine were able to destroy it with the amazing Belt of Deltora. The great description of the black goo, oozing out of it really made me think I was in a movie. Another one of my favorite parts of the book was when the Granous had captured the Capricorn. I could see with great depth Lief struggling to be as silent as possible, freeing the Capricorn from the ropes of the Granous. The puzzles of them really made the scene suspenseful. The mental image I got from the Granous leader eating off the fingers of the Capricorn really sent a shiver down my spine. Great job overall. And thank you for writing a book that I actually enjoyed.

Yes, this book is a for sure read. The descriptive action catches you as the reader the very start of reading. The characters from Lief to Josef all have such great, creative, and descriptive personalities. This book may sound like a children's book, but the way you put in the action and suspense really made it a book for all ages. Each character's personality is so different and interesting that it makes it so intriguing to read. The Shadow Lord's mischievous and devious tone and choice of words is just what this book needed to make it great. Great ending to the series. I totally recommend it.

When I began to read this book, it reminded me a lot about the movie Troy and the book The Iliad. Lief reminds me of Achilles, a brave new leader who isn't afraid of anything or anyone. When I started reading about Barda, it really hit me, “this sounds just like Diomedes in the Iliad. They are both very brave, young warriors who are excited for battle, ready to fight, and ready to DIE. This book overall was a very well, ancient Rome type book. I absolutely recommend it.

Coraline Book Review By Armond D.

When Coraline finds a grand oak door in her new home she expected more than a brick wall behind it, but this book has a great purpose in telling the significant story of some worlds that are never are as pleasurable as they seem. The inter-world fantasy __Coraline__, by Neil Gaiman, persuades you take a long held breath as Coraline takes the last step through the door, out our world and into a horrific trap.

“Coraline discovered the door a little while after they moved into the house.” It was a giant oak door that literally lead nowhere but a brick wall located in Coraline’s new house. Coraline, a young curious girl, thought her life was bland. Her parents were bland, her neighbors were bland, and the house was bland. The only thing in her opinion that was interesting was when she found that mysterious door that lead to a wall. Naturally her curiosity rendered her to check the door out every once in a while. Aside from the boredom the world around her has been acting strange. It rained for days in the summer and mist hung everywhere. Coraline’s neighbors also sent an omen that she was in terrible danger. How could that be, the world is so boring. She wondered if other worlds unknown could be more interesting. She would soon find out. Right as she thought she would die of boredom she checked the door out again. She expected bricks but her thoughts were denied when she found herself looking at a entrance to another place. In result, this exciting world had her drawn away from her bored state. As she entered she discovered a parallel world restored with one major change. All the boring thing changed into exciting replacements and every person in this world has button eyes. She was convinced that this world was better. The toys, the food, the neighbors, the animals, and her whole house was better. However, a huge downside came with all this. She had different parents. They were also more interesting than her real parents only they don’t really love her. They loved here like they wanted something from her, like how a greedy man loves money. They want Coraline to stay and be there child. But in order to do that she need to sew buttons into her own eyes and be changed into one of them. She noticed receiving real love from your parents was more important than getting all you want. So she sacrificed it all and went back through the door to the real world. However, when she returned she realizes her other mother has trapped her parents. She also realizes her other mother wanted more than a soul to love but a soul to eat. Within her other mother’s wrath, Coraline must beat her in a deadly game to save everything she cares about. Her parents, her soul, and the spirit of other trapped children. Will she bring about enough bravery to succeed?

With this book, connections came like flying darts. They hit my head as I read. The most common connection that occurred to me was __The Chronicles of Narnia__ when they saunter through this wardrobe into an enchanted world but only when the time was right. The beginning part of this story is also equivalent to my life. I was bored since I moved into Colorado and tried to find interest in everything. I also found great similarities in this book and __Ravens Gate__ because in Ravens Gate there are dark beings that feed on misery.

I recommend this book and give it 4 stars. To see if this book is right for you take this survey:

1. Are you… A. 10 years old or older? B. younger than 10 years old?

2. Do you like books where.. A. someone travels to a magic world? B. there is a lot of realistic drama?

3. Is a struggle with evil sinister powers your thing to read? A. Yes B. No

4. Are you eager to finish a book to find out what happens? A. Yes B. No

5. Do you hate uninteresting storytelling and little explanation even if there is an interesting storyline? A. No B. Yes

6. In your opinion, does emotion and inner eye a key detail in reading? A. No, as long as there is a good plot B. Yes

7. In your opinion, is a fast going plot a good thing? A. Yes B. No I f you answered mostly **A**s __CORALINE__ is the book for you. If you answered mostly **B**s you might want to try a book that has more emotional description.

__Book Review__ By Scott S. The book, __Cry of the Icemark__ by Kristian Cashore is an action packed thriller with an interesting plot. It all starts with a girl named Thirrin. She is the heir to the throne to of Icemark and has a fiery temper that goes along with her fiery red hair. She is also very proud. Far away there lives a ruthless general that that wants to add Icemark to its vast Empire. As the Empire's army drew near, Thirrin's father went out with a single goal to hold off the Empire until winter. Both the armies destroyed each other. The Empire lost an army, and Thirrin lost a father. As the end of winter draws near, so does the Empires new and grand army. Icemark's only chance is to ally itself with the surrounding races. They are the fierce werewolves, lying vampires, and the powerful ice leopards. This will prove to be the hardest thing Thirrin has ever done. Along the way, she meets a dangerous person with a dangerous secret. Can Thirrin find enough allies to stop the empire in time?

This book is similar to life experiences that almost everyone has had. If you have ever had to face a hopeless situation and still pull through, then you will know how Thirrin feels. Thirrin has to deal with the loss of her father and and defeat the emperor. This is truly a hopeless situation for Thirrin, so she goes to find so allies just like a human would find another person to help them through a hard situation.As far as books go, this is one of the best. I would recommend it to all people in need of a good book. Out of ten stars, I would give it an eight because the beginning is just a little dull. In my opinion, the best part of the book is the awesome descriptions. When the author described the snow leopards, I had a clear picture in my head of a majestic beast with flowing white hair and pure white long fangs. I truly had a clear picture in my mind of the snow leopards. As far as books go, this is one of the best.

**__ New Moon Book Review __** By: Susan Z. “I had to keep moving. If I stopped looking for him, it was over. Love, life, meaning...over.” Many people experience a heartbreaking break-up in their lives. __New Moon__, by Stephanie Meyer, is a heart touching book about two people in love but for ones protection, they must leave each other.

In the book __New Moon__, by Stephanie Meyer, there's a boy and a girl together named Edward and Bella and to others their relationship seems normal but they have a very bizarre one because one holds a dark secret. He's a vampire! Though his family is not like the others. They vow to not feed on human blood, only surviving their thirst by animals. Their family is pure beauty each one in their own way beautiful and perfect with their gorgeous faces. Bella sees herself as a plain average girl who doesn’t deserve Edward as her boyfriend. They live in a forestry green, gloomy, with barely any sun, town called Forks. But when things finally start to get better, a tragic incident occurs involving their family. The protection for Bella, Edward starts seeing as failing. When protection mattered more than his love, their family decides to leave Forks without Bella. She is heartbroken and depressed. She becomes a lifeless statue with an empty heart that is unbearable. She feels like her whole world is gone, a feeling indescribable. She starts spending time with her old friend Jacob (Jake). Jake changes a lot over the year. He is as tall as a skyscraper, super strong, and he has deep russet red colored skin. Though Jacob has feelings for her, Bella doesn't feel that same way back. Though for a while, boom; she feels whole again, like her heart is mended whenever she is with him. A day with Jake is a day without pain. But when Jacob starts ignoring her, she is heartbroken again. He maintains a secret that tears him apart from Bella. Later, a horrifying mix-up occurs and a life is at stake.

Meyers takes this book to a whole new level. She describes the characters really well in depth. She describes them physically yet mentally. Every feature of their face is brought to life with the technique she uses and every thought comes out in a clear precise way. She really describes the bond between Edward and Bella strongly. Them being torn apart and the emotions that come out of it, is just heartbreaking. How she describes what Bella feels like you actually start crying. __New Moon__ is also very suspenseful, because of all the tragedy and secrets. Not mentioning a mysterious murderer wandering in Forks but is it who we assume it to be? You'll want to keep reading and reading this exhilarating book. You will never want to put it down once you start. With all the suspense, along comes the adventure in the book. Stunts as activities and unusual fights are just some of the exciting things that happen. In Meyer's, __New Moon__, it's a love story with bite. __ New Moon __ is a fantastic love story with romance and action. IF you like other vampire series like __The Vampire Diaries__, you’d also love __New Moon__. If you like the first book __Twilight,__ you’ll also love this book too! __New Moon__ really focuses on the emotion throughout the book. From the breakup, to Bella feeling guilty for leading on Jacob, just so he would spend time with her and not leave her. IF you like surprises, you’d also love this book. This book in every page has something surprising just waiting to jump up on you. This book is hard to figure out what’s going to happen next so it leads to more suspense. You’ll want the book to reveal the secrets it holds for you. __ New Moon __, by Stephanie Meyer is a treasure waiting for you to find it. It’s an amazing love story with lots of suspense, action, ad surprises. You can connect easily to the characters and you’ll love relating to them. This book is a fun book to try to make predictions on, since it’s so surprising. Next time, you’re trying to find a book, try __New__ __Moon;__ you’ll never know what it holds for you.

=Diary of a Wimpy Kid –Dog Days by Jeff Kinney Book Review by Aditya K.= Dear New York Times, " For me, summer vacation is basically a three month guilt trip" says Greg as he described summer vacation in this book The book **__Diary of a Wimpy Kid –Dog Days by Jeff Kinney__** is a great book about a boy named Greg Hefley who is always bothered by every event that happens in his ridiculous life. To begin, at one point in the story, Greg’s mom noticed that he is not spending any of his time reading. So she decides to create a club called the “reading is fun club.” Then his mom made everyone around Greg’s age that lives in his neighborhood join. This showed that she was as desperate as a banana in a chimp factory. Another example of the bizarre events in Greg’s life is when Greg had to pay his dad back for mindlessly spending all his money in the country club. His solution was to do some yard work for his neighbors, so he decided to start a yard work company. At first, this failed because no one wanted to an amateur lawn mower so they tried a new approach; they found a birthday card that said “hope your birthday is HOT, HOT, HOT,” and it had two brawny men who were working on constructing a house. One of them was holding a shovel and the other was using a machine to break through cement. So then Greg and Rowley (his best friend) edited it so that their faces are on the muscular body and the one holding the lawnmower was holding a gardening hoe instead, and the one holding the machine held a lawnmower. Unfortunately you have to read this book to find out what happens next. To conclude, this book has an awesome genre, a critical plot, and a great hilarious humor that can inspire and put a smile on even a goth kids face.

This book is a great book because anyone over the age of 9 can connect to it. To start, Greg’s dad gets caught secretly stuffing his face with delicious brownies after dinner. I know that every kid has secretly done that with brownies, candy, chips, and all kinds of junk food after dinner and I am sure that half of them got caught. Next, during summer vacation, Greg only played video games all day. I know that in the real world, the youngest pro-gamer is about 8 so that must show that kids are playing too much video games during vacations. Last, many people have had a pet die in their life and was told that it ran away. Well Greg’s dad was told when he was young that his pet nutty ran away to a butterfly farm. Actually Greg’s grandfather confesses that he ran over his dog and lied that he ran away! All in all, this book is a great book to relate to almost any age.

In my opinion, this book is a great book to read for ages 9 and up. The purpose of the book is to entertain the reader. This book has a marvelous sense of humor and appeals to anyone. Next, this book has phenomenal illustrations! Each picture is drawn with soft smooth lines, has great texture, includes all kinds of details and can only be described in a million words. Last, anyone could relate to it. In life everyone has those wimpy kid days so this shows those days put to the extreme. In conclusion, this book is a great book to read and relate to for anybody. Thanks for your time, Aditya Kamath

Thief Lord Review By Mitchell R. January, 12, 2010 By Cornilia Funke

Cornilia Funke's Thief Lord sets adventure, mystery, and fantasy into one trill ride of a novel when Scorpio, a shadey orphan takes in two runaways into his gang. This story sets its self in Venice, the most magical city in Italy. The tale begins when orphans Prosper and Bo flee from their aunt and uncle and go to Venice, Italy. The reason they flee is their auntuncle want to separate them. But all is not safe for them even in Venice, for and detective to track them down. But sanctuary finds Prosper and Bo when a gang of kids takes them in to their new home, an abandoned movie theater as big as a school. The only problem besides the detective is the gang leader, the thief lord, has been acting very strange. For intance he never sleeps in the hideout and doesn't tell were he goes to sleep. And on top of that a very mysterios man wants to meet with him. I think this story is great for anyone for ages 6 to 60 it will still be a fantastic read. And I garentee you'll be wanting more, to bad theres no sequals. I rate this book 5 stars.

// **REDWALL** // **BOOK REVIEW** **BY NICK G.** A young orphan mouse named Matthias lives in the castle of Redwall a happy place in the forest-that is until Cluny the scourge and his dastardly evil rat army decide to attack it! Experience all sides of this epic war and join Matthias as he discovers his identity, embarks a quest to find the ancient sword of his hero Martin the warrior, confronts an owl and even battles a giant snake!

//Redwall// is an amazing book. It has action, suspense, strategy, mystery, and adventure! You'll feel like your in the book with the characters! This book is honestly one of the best I have ever read! Everyone of all ages will love this book, girls, boys, adults, kids, everyone!

This book reminded me a lot of //The Tale Of Desperaux, Mrs Frisby And The Rats of NIMH,// //Eragon,// and //the Lord of the Rings.// They all have unlikely heroes, heaps of adventure, and small woodland mammals so if you liked any of those books you’ll love //Redwall// by Brian Jacques! Rating: //*//

A GIRL NAMED DISASTER BOOK REVIEW By: Megan N. Through Nancy Farmer's eyes, Nhamo is a personification of hopeless. At only about twelve, she is already orphaned and living with her aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents. Leading a native life in rural Africa is tough for this teen to overcome, especially when she lives in the shadow of her cousin, who's perfect and beautiful, which only gives Nhamo more hours of chores in an effort to keep her cousin's unspoiled beauty, well, unspoiled. When a terrible cholera plague infects Nhamo's village, they travel many miles to see a psychic medium. But he unearths a deadly secret about her father's foggy past she is forced to flee in order to escape the horrible fate of being married to a man who she doesn't even know and most likely has many wives already. Under the cover of darkness, Nhamo silently escapes from her aunt with the help of her grandmother. Her plan is to find her father who is living in Zimbabwe. Little does she know...

When you get sucked into this book, there's no turning back. With surprises around every corner, you always hunger for more. I think that every teenager who thinks they have a hard life should read this book just to show them that it only can get worse from where they stand. Also, I think parents will enjoy this book. The intriguing plot draws audiences from all age groups. You go underwater and don't resurface until you turn the last page, and you may go back and read it again.

Anyone has every envied one of their friends will connect with Nhamo. I have had friends who I envy, because they seem better than I am, but I always prove myself wrong. This is a great book to help people get through hard times. Everybody thinks they're on their own, but they aren't.

If your looking for a book that's happy, sad, frustration, and sometimes creepy, this is the book for you.

Shannon Hale’s
 * Book Review on

__ River Secrets __** By Airam Korionoff

River Secrets, by Shannon Hale, portraits an enchanting take on a modern fantasy-fairytale. Razo, a proud Forest-born teen takes on a dangerous task, to escort a Bayern ambassador into the enemy country of Tira. Geric and Isi, the king and queen of Bayern, come to the conclusion that trading ambassadors with Tira might settle the hot tension between the two post-war stricken countries. As Razo discovers the burnt bodies, he also learns his hidden and useful talents and how to be the soldier he thought he would never become.

Hales books remind me of C.S Lewis’s __The Chronicles of Narnia__ in such a way that I feel as though I can casually drift between both worlds. It is a fantastic feeling, like flying with no worries of where you will land next. Her profound writing pulls me in deeper than any movie can. I have also read the other three installments included in the books of Bayern. Hale took the Grimm’s tale of 4 pages and turn and transformed it into the beautiful crafted first book of Bayern, __The Goose Girl__. And she did not stop there. She wrote three more, __Enna__ __Burning, River Secrets, and Forest Born.__ They are all so intricately woven together, just as __The Chronicles of Narnia__ were, with roots in the deepest of places.

__ River Secrets __ is well plotted, mixing action, mystery, and romance in just right. It will satisfy you like a perfectly blended Piña Colada on a hot day. Much like the __Goose Girl__, it is a touching coming-of-age story that will warm both male an female hearts especially those of us passing an awkward stage. You will relate well to this novel’s endearing protagonist. __River Secrets__ is an outstanding book that I would strongly recommend to any audience. __New Moon Book Review__ By Molly L.

__New Moon__, a novel by Stephanie Meyer, is a twisted love story between Edward Cullen the Vampire, Bella Swan the “ordinary” high schooler, and her friend Jacob Black. Edward and Bella live in Forks, Washington, and love each other unconditionally. Jacob lives in La Push, Washington, a nearby town, and would die for Bella. Bella is about to turn 18, about to be older than her “frozen in time.” To celebrate, Edward's vampire family, the Cullen's, throw her a Birthday Bash. While opening a present, Bella slices her finger and a drop of her blood oozes out. Instantly, the mood of the party shifts as Jasper, Edward's brother, lunges at Bella. He cannot resist the scent of her blood. Bella and Edward leave as soon as the situation calms. Mr. Cullen sews up Bella's arm after it was cut by the family room glass table. Edward knows that he cannot continue to put Bella in danger because of his family, so he vows to leave Forks forever. He leaves the small town with one wish, that Bella promise not to be reckless or stupid. Bella's life is ruined forever, according to her. As a last resort, she turns to her best friend, Jacob Black. But what will happen when Jacob becomes someone you wouldn't think he is?

After I read this book, I would describe it in a few ways, dramatic, romantic, and suspenseful. I think it is especially filled with drama because of Bella's emotions. Stephanie Meyer uses Bella's emotions to make the story come to life. This is similar to the book __My Life in Pink and Green__ by Lisa Greenwald because in this book, the main characters emotions also make the book more realistic. I also believe it is a great love story because of the intense relationship between Edward and Bella. Their love isn't “normal.” Nothing could ever break the bond between them, even if they live far away. This book was also packed with great twists and turns, and was a very suspenseful. All of the events seemed to fit together like a puzzle, and suspense piled on right before the major events. This book also reminded me of the movie The book had high drama, a good dose of suspense, and was romantic enough to keep it interesting.

I think this book was meant to be read by teenagers, people who love fantasy, and people who are fans of romance. Since Bella, Edward, and Jacob are all teenagers, I think that it is easy to relate to them if you are a teenager too. Their emotions and actions seem so real, as if every character were sitting in front of you, living their every day life. People who love fantasy would also enjoy this book because it relates ordinary people to made-up characters. This book also incorporates fantasy creatures such as vampires adn werewolves into our lives in a unique, creative way. Lastly, I think fans of romance would love this book because of Edward and Bella's relationship. The love story in this book is displayed in a powerful way, and you feel like nothing could ever seperate Edward and Bella from being together. Obviously, since I am a teenager, I found this twisted, romantic, suspense-filled novel one I had a hard time putting down!

Eldest By: Christopher P. Reviewed by: Sierra M. Koch

Betrayal once again echos through Eragon's mind, when Murtagh is killed by Urgals after the battle against the Empire. Eragon's scar, stretching from his shoulder to his hip, reminds him of his near death experience against the shade, Durza. Eragon's woe is swept away when he begins the journey to the elves city, hidden deep within the massive trees of the forest. As Eragon struggles to understand his place, control his love and accept his pain, he meets two special individuals, determined to help Eragon on his journey in whatever way possible, including educating him in the ways of the Elves. However, lurking deep within in Eragon's mind lingers the thought of Betrayal by Family. Eragon has no family, does he?

Eldest is not only a book of excitement and action, it also contains a deep romance. Eragon not only battles soldiers, but also his heart, his love, and his choices, as battles rage on the burning plains. The Varden and the Empire continue to exchange blows, this time however, the Elves once again join the struggle, allied with the Varden. Eragon travels to the Elves hidden city to learn the secrets of Dragon Riders, but he returns prepared to play his part, and Eragon will never be the same, literally.

Unlike so many other books Eldest both gives you a action and romance, not to mention the mountains of suspense. It is stunning when everything unfolds and finally makes sense. It is not necessary to read __Eragon__, the first book in the series, however it will greatly improve this book, not mention make sense. Eldest doesn't remind me of many books because it is so unique, but the one book I did make a connection to was __Alex Rider: Point Blank__, due to its suspense and action that practically leaves you hanging on a cliff. If you loved action packed stories like __Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief__, and __Harry Potter__, then this is the book for you! Don't start this novel before bed, because you'll never get to sleep!\

Artemis Fowl: The Opal Deception Book By: Eoin Colfer Reviewed By: Anna Leonhardt

__Artemis Fowl: The Opal Deception__ is the thrilling fourth installment in the Artemis Fowl series. In this book, Artemis encounters fears he had never imagined. His life threatening memory's with the elf Holly Short, and the hairy dwarf Mulch Diggums are returned to him after his mind wipe of the fairy world a year previously. Opal Koboi, an evil pixie from the underground city Haven, has prepared her most cunning plan for revenge yet. The pixie forces Artemis and Holly to come in contact with a colony of blood-thirsty trolls in the “11” wonders of the world, and many more sudden death situations causing mortal peril. With the Mulch, Holly and her centaur friend Foaly, part of the LEPrecon fairy police unit, Artemis is able to fight his way through the fairy world to collect the important and valuable information from the painting called The Fairy Thieft. He might have even encountered one of his most cunning adversitys yet, someone who may have finally outsmarted him...

There are many ways in which people can relate to this book. The story keeps you reading all the way to the end. The heart pounding adventures make the story almost impossible to set down. All the action packed adventures with Artemis Fowl will find most readers making connections to stories such as __Star Wars__ and __Sherlock Holmes__. You will also be able to strongly connect to most of the characters with their unique personalities. Readers of science fiction fantasy are sure to fall in love with __Artemis Fowl: The Opal Deception.__

If you liked the Harry Potter series, you are sure to feel the same way about Artemis Fowl. Colfer shows a unique writing style while tieing in his own flare of humor. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good science fiction book, and a great laugh! All in all, I would give this book a 4 of 5 stars.

Jared F.

Ender, Ender the powerful third Classified a super dooper human He can run faster than others, Jump higher than his mothers You would think he'd be famed But he is popostrasly ashamed He is smarter than the others So they are JEALOUS Beating Ender up like CREAVOUS Ender is tired of this He wants a fight And so he will Ender is strong and is licensed to kill So with a punch and a kick and a powowow Ender has the power of ….skill With Stilson beat up and a people are a frightened NO one else wants to get with ender and his fighten Ender is nervous cause Stilsons in the hospitable Broken ribs and a smashed up face bleeding and crying Is Stilsons position Enders at home with his mommy and his daddy His parents find out that Ender is a BADDY Ender thinks that this is settle just with his SCHOOL But when an I.F. Agent pulls up with the government in his name Ender knows he's in trouble with the LAW When the aahagent walks into his house Instead of getting Ender in trouble He actually is proud of his work And asks if he wants to go to battle school So Ender thinks he is cool so he sahes yes There is something I need to rap to you And this is it But Ender lives in a terrible world Where buggers are planning their next attack TO wipe the humans off their plate Ender knew he had to help the earth So other little babies can be gaven birherhereaheheearth SO Our hope is with Ender And the whole entire earth depends on him This book reminds me of Halo, Starwars, and anything elsae that kicks you with action I recommend this book for the cool and any being of earth that loves action pppperiod.

Raven's Gate Book Review By: Julia B. In the marvelous and adventurous book, "Raven's Gate" 13 year old orphan Matt never seemed to know where he was going, or what was happening. After the crime he committed, trying to steal CD's and other electronics from a warehouse that produced toys and other things. A security guard was stabbed by Matt's so called-friend, and so Matt was blamed for the the "murder" that happened. He was sent to live with his creepy and unknown legal guardian, Mrs. Deverill. He promised that he would leave Glendale Farm, the old place that Mrs. Deverill and he had to live. To add to all the the spooks and creepiness, Asmodeus, the awkward and stalker cat that was Mrs. Deverill's only "friend" kept watching Matt, over and over and over again. Especially when Matt received the the key that had strange powers to unwind any road from a man living on a ranch named Tom Burgess. With the strange things happening after Matt receives the key, he still thinks about taking a risk of freedom.

Anyone reading "Raven's Gate" can and will make at least one connection to it. Personal connection, book to book connection, or book to world connection. Just like how some people sometimes "take the wrong road and always end up in the same place or worse." Also, Matt never seemed to know where he was going. That always happens to me, or other friends I know. Matt always questions himself, about what is going on, what he's doing and other things. That also happens to me... A LOT.

I would recommend this book to any open readers who need something to read, or just to any people who LOVE to read. This book will suck you into it's mystery, action, and wonder. It has lots of connections that you can connect to. Raven's Gate, to me, had no point, and that's why I continued reading this mysterious book. I had a lot of wonder and thinking as I read. I couldn't turn away from it, I just had to keep reading. It was an interesting book to me, and I would rate "Raven's Gate" 5 stars.

__The Last Olympian Book__ Review by Kilyn R.

The book __The Last Olympian__ explains Percy's struggles to save our world and Mount Oympus. Percy is now 16 years old, he has known for many years the prophecy that has been lied before him. He must now fight Kronos a legendary titan to stop him from controlling the world and having more power than anyone could possibly imagine. As Percy and his friends prepare for battle, tragic events begin to happen all over the world leading to one point. Mount Olympus in the heart of New York. The camp Percy has been attending for many years Camp Half-blood has taught Percy many ways to fight and to use his sword for good. His fellow peers that attend here (Demigods) and the God's on Mount Olympus will stand by Percy in battle. They are mankind's only hope, will they be able to save the World and Mount Olympus, or will they both perish and Percy, his friends, and all of mankind will go with them.

This book reminds me of the historical days of Greece. This is because of the influence the God's had on all of the people and the battles that were fought over the God's. The main connection I make from this book to the ancient days of Greece was the sacrifice many people made to the God's in order to save their people and make the God's happy. Percy must sacrifice to save his people and make the God's pleased. He must make the ultimate sacrifice, his life for his people. This book's connections are mostly based off of all Greek myths along with monsters and heroes. The titan's mentioned in all myths are also in this story trying to wreak havoc as they do in all myths. This book has many connections to our world such as love, commitment, sacrifice, deception, and perseverance. People face these struggles everyday.

This book deserves a 4/5 stars because of its action and drama. This book explains a lot of hurt and pain that the characters must endure. __The Last__ __Olympian__ is a must read for any adventure and action pack lovers in stories. In conclusion, this is one of the best books I’ve ever read I would recommend it to anyone who loves to read about myths and legends.

**Perfect a book review by Sydney S.** The book __Perfect__ by Sara Shepard is a great book filled with mystery and suspense. // __Perfect__ starts out with four girls that used to be best friends-but over the years they have drifted apart and are no longer friends. Hannah is one of the most popular girls in the school-she is used to getting whatever she wants. Emily devotes her entire life to swimming. Aria is a good student and gets good grades and Spencer- holds a dark secret she has been hiding for years. The four girls are completely different and share no similarities. When questions are brought up about one of the girls old best friends Alison's death, all four of the girls begin receiving mysterious text messages from someone known as A. Somehow A knows every single thing about all of the girls and attempts to ruin their lives by sharing their most personal secrets with the world. You will not be able to set this book down. The suspense will kill you! Read Perfect to find out just exactly who A is and what she plans to do. //

// The fourth book in the Pretty little liar’s series is just as good if not better than the first three. This book holds even more secrets and suspense. If you liked the first books you will absolutely love .__Perfect.__ Also if you like to watch 48 Hours Mystery on T.V you will really enjoy reading this novel. Both 48 Hours and __Perfect__ are mysteries. __Perfect__ shares vivid details about every step of the mystery just like in 48 Hours the book shows many different perspectives (one from each of the four friends.) Also, if you liked the book __The Lovely Bones__ you will like this mysterious book just as well. Once again, both are mysteries, but __The Lovely Bones__ is told more in a story like perspective, so is __Perfect.__ I connect with this book because the friendships in this book are a lot like my friendships in real life. Just like in __Perfect__ my friends and I do fight sometimes, but at the end of the day we love each other and we would do anything for each other. In addition, if you like romance this book definitely doesn’t lack- you will absolutely ‘love’ this book. //

// I recommend this book for a plethora of reasons. It teaches many life lessons. Some of these are honesty, friendship, and trust. It shows that if you don’t tell the truth you will end up in more trouble if you told the truth in the first place. That is so true in life and it inspires me to be a better person. Reading a book packed with life lesson such as this will help you learn but also you can read about a story and learn those lessons in a more fun way (reading a story.) As well as teaching life lessons this book is packed with action- in this book there will ever be a dull moment, you won’t e able to set it down because you can’t wait to find out what will happen next. Also, if you like romance, mystery, suspense, ex. in novels you will very much love this novel //

// Clearly, the book __Perfect__ by Sara Sheppard is a great book filled with mystery and suspense. //

Book Review by Jaelynn C.

Dear Muggles,

Although it is against Ministry of Magic's rules, I am going to attempt to tell all Muggles about the Magic World. You probably a already confused by some of the words that I've used, but it is urgent that you bear with me because an evil force was released and it is unknown whether it will attack or not.

First I will tell you about magic. There are wizards and witches out there, unbeknownst to you. All unmagical humans are called Muggles, as yourself. Witches and wizards use magic to do everything. Clean, cook, play, work, everything. Some people even use magic for evil doing. Especially one person, Voldemort, who is so evil it's evil to speak his name. No one has survived his grasp, except for one person...

This leads me to next point. On a dark and stormy night, a newly married couple with their baby were attacked by You-Know-Who. The parents did everything to save their baby, but before you knew what was happening, You-Know-Who killed them. He went after the baby next, but because of the powerful force called love that You-Know-Who had none of, he couldn't harm him. The baby was left with a scar, and You-Know-Who vanished. This baby instantly became famous, and everyone knew his name, Harry Potter.

Now grown up to age 13, Harry is believed to be a lunatic. He saw with hes own eyes Voldemort come back to power, but no one believes him. Instead of staring at him with admiration, everyone now stares at him with disgust. Only a few people, including myself, believe his story to be true. All of the adults that believe him have come together to make plans against You-Know-Who, and since times are worsening, I've decided to call all of you.

Whether you believe me or not, please help us. If you are confused, I recommend reading the fifth book in the series of __Harry Potter.__ It will explain everthing and it will make this letter make much more sense. J.K. Rowling makes her words flow perfectly and is an eminent writer. Since this is urgent matter, I plead with you to read this book and help us retaliate against You-Know-Who.

Thanks, Ron Weasley

__The Book Thief Review__ __By Michelle G.__

__The Book Thief__, by Markus Zusak, is about a ten year old girl that is adopted by the Hubberman family during WWII. On the train going to Himmel Street, Leisel's little brother faces an unhappy death, and leaves Leisel to experience her new life without him. Hans Hubberman saves Leisel from a very needed but unwanted bath by Rosa Hubberman, and Leisel instantly likes him. Leisel has nightmares every nightmares every night and Hans is always there to comfort her and teach her how to read when she wakes up. When Leisel wanted to read more, she started to steal books from random places, but doesn't ever get caught, except for the mayor's wife. Rosa Hubberman is abusive with her words and actions, but love Leisel nonetheless. Hans's past comes back to him when he gets a letter to help an old friend's son, but this man was Jewish, so they were asking him to hide him and help him to stay alive. Hans just couldn't refuse, so he takes Max Vandenburg under his wing. Max and Leisel strike up a friendship and they help each other in so many ways. But when Max gets taken to a concentration camp, and a bomb hits Himmel Street, Leisel's life get turned upside down.

In many other books I've read, two people really don't like each other, but they are so much alike that eventually they become best friends. For example, in __The B.F.G__, by Roald Dahl, the girl is really afraid of the giant, but after she gets to know him, she realizes that he is really nice and caring. Also, in __The Diary of Anne Frank__ by Anne Frank, there is a lot of history about WWII in a Jewish person's point of view. But in __The Book Thief__, it is in a person who is hiding a Jewish person's point of view.

I would definitely recommend this book to someone else because it is an awesome book for many reasons. One reason is because it is a heartfelt story about a hard life of a ten year old girl. She goes through a lot of tough times throughout her time on Himmel Street, things like not having enough to eat every day, and keeping a huge secret from everyone but her mom and dad. Also, it talks a lot about friendship, and how it's a very important thing throughout life. Overall, it was one of the best books I have ever read.

__Cold Fire__ Book Review By: Julia P.

The book __Cold Fire__ by Tamora Pierce is a view of Daja's life and adventures in the icy winter of Kugisko, Namorn. When Daja sees magic inside of the two girls of the family she is staying with, it becomes her responsibility to teach how to control their power. As fires rage through Kugisko, Daja strives to complete her teaching duties as well trying to help save the innocent civilians that are trapped inside some of the burning buildings.

Daja finds Jory's magic first. Jory defiantly tells her that she does not have a spec of magic because the magic sniffers, the mages that find magic in others, said they saw none inside her. Daja is then distracted by a fire in an old barn, scheduled for demolition. The fire is quenched and two boys lives are saved with the help of Ben Ladradrun.When Daja returns to the house she begins working on a device that will show Jory's magic and what it relates to. She is also fairly sure that Jory's twin sister, Nia, has magic also because if one twin has magic then the other almost always will. Her device is very effective and shows both of their magics. With the task of convincing them over, she goes on a hunt for teachers that will suit them. None of the teachers will teach the girls to control their power so it is up to Daja to teach them meditation. Meditation focuses their powers to where they can keep it from escaping them and hurting things and maybe people around them.

The whole town of Kugisko, including Daja, sees Ben Ladradrun as a hero. He trains some volunteers of the town to fight the fires that start often in the wooden buildings of the town. In light of his heroism, Daja begins her biggest living metal project ever; gloves that allow Ben to handle fire with his hands and eventually a living metal suit to let him stay in the fires to save more lives. Almost through with the gloves, Daja reveales that the fires are being set. Kugiskan mages help Daja and her teacher race to find the monster who is setting the fires and killing more and more people. With so many people dying in the burning buildings, Daja must hurry to find the fire setter even if it means betraying a friend.

This book relates strongly to __Magic Steps__ and __Street Magic__ in which Briar and Sandry finds a student and must train them in order to overcome a larger problem. When Daja found the twins magic it was a lot like those first two books of the series. This book would suit anyone who has enough patience to wait for the main characters to find who is setting the fires even though you end up knowing half way through this fantasy. With stunning surprises and dramatic irony, the book __Cold Fire__ is an astonishing cross between magic and mystery.

How to Steal a Dog Review

How to Steal a Dog Reviw by Abbie C.

Dear Willy, How are you doing? Have you recovered from your little trip yet? I just finished reading a really good book called __How to Steal a Dog__ by Barbara O'Connor and I want to explain it to you. Georgina Hayes and her little brother live in a car with their mom. You were living in a house with your owner, Carmella. Georgina and her family were really poor until Georgina came up with a "get rich quick" plan. Unfortunately, it had to involve you.

Georgina decided to write a book while she carried through with her plan. It seemed so simple, but as she found, it was the carrying through with it that was the hard part. I think you should read __How to Steal a Dog__ because it is filled with excitement and nervousness as she makes up her mind about several different things. For example, Georgina has to decide whether or not befriending your owner Carmella is a good idea, so it is a little tense there, since she's tense and nervous.

Georgina also gets angry and annoyed with her little brother. I have a little brother as well, and he is definitely annoying sometimes. She kept you at a house that seems like it could be a haunted house, it was so old and broken down.

**The Last Olympian Book Review **
 * By Max B. **

**Annabeth Chase **(dmg.) (an-nu-beth) **1.**Daughter of Athena **2.** One of Percy's best demigod friends **3.** Former friend of Luke


 * Artemis **(gs) (are-tum-iss) **1**. Goddess of the hunt


 * Athena **(gs) (ath-een-uh) **1.**Goddess of wisdom **2.** mother of Annabeth


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Camp Half-Blood **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(camp-haf-blud) **1.**training camp for all demigods or other creatures **2.** Protected from monsters and mortals


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Centaur **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(sen-char)**1.** half horse, half man; Chiron **2**. Very powerful and wise **3.** Sons of Hades


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Chiron **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(cntr) (cheer-on) **1.** director of Camp Half- Blood, Great friend of Percy **2**. Gives demigods great advice and aide in battle


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Clarisse **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(dmg) (clair-i-see) son of Ares(god of war)**1.** Rivals many campers, great fighter **2.** Brave, saves many at the battle for Olympus, slaid the huge serpent


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Cyclops **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(sii-clops) **1.** Immune to heat, fire **2.** sons of Poseidon, extremely strong **3.** Take down Typhon


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Demigod **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(demy-god) **1.** Sons of gods **2.** Take down many of the gods’ monsters


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Dyonisus **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(dy-oh-nice-us) **1.** God of wine, arrogant **2.** Gives Percy many helpful pointers, but lazy


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">God **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">an immortal male being of supreme power


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Goddess **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">an immortal female being of supreme power


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Grover **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(str) (grow-vur) **1.** Destined to seek out Pan, demigods **2.** Found Percy, best friends


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Hades **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(gd) (hay-dees) **1.** God of underworld, father of Nico **2.** Refuses to aid in either fight for Olympus nor typhon


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Kronos **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(tn)(krow-nose) **1.** Evil titan lord, takes over body of Luke **2.** Defeated by Percy


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Luke **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(dmg) (looke) **1.** Son of Hermes, former camper **2.** Betrays Annabeth and camp, as well as Percy **3.** Becomes completely evil, fights with/in/as Kronos


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Mist **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(mist) layer of magic that keeps most mortals from seeing the true action that would cause chaos


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Mt. Olympus: **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(mownt- oh-limp-us) **1.** Beautifull palace for gods located above Empire State Building **2.** If it falls, gods fall; Kronos’s army attacks


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">My opinion **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(mii-oh-pin-yun) **1.** I think this is one of the bet books I have ever read, only book that has made me laugh **2.** Greek mythology is very interesting; I definitely recommend the whole series **3.** 5/5 stars if not higher
 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Nico di Angelo: **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(dmg) (neec-oh-dee-an-jell-oh) **1.** Short- tempered son of Hades **2.** Helps Percy gain curse of Agamemnon


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Pan **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(gd) lost god of nature, thought to be dead


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Percy Jackson **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(dmg) (purse-ee-jack-sun) **1.** main character, son of Poseidon **2.** Fights off kronos and his army almost easily **3.** saves Olympus with curse of Agamemnon which allows him to fight hundreds of times better with the exception of the great tiredness that follows his battles **4.** Percy is destined to die on his sixteenth birthday and choose if Olympus falls or overpowers


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Poseidon **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(gd) (po-sy-dun) **1.** Father of Percy, God of the sea **2.** Gives up his kingdom to save Olympus **3.** Only aides in war against typhoon at the very end


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Rachel Dare **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(mrl) (ray-chell-dair) **1.** Mortal friend of Percy who makes Annabeth jealous **2.** Has very important and specific visions that help the demigods


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Satyr **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(sa-cher) half man half goat creatures, all devoted to find Pan; nature spirits


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">The Last Olympian **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(the-last-oh-limp-ee-in)[by Rick Riordan] **1.** Amazing novel, illustrates the life of Percy Jackson(son of Poseidon)**2.** Greek mythology **3.** Suspense, action, humor tied in one (also see: **my opinion**) 15 year old demigod, Percy Jackson, saves the entire population from destruction: destroys Kronos **4.** Kronos’s army attempts to take Olympus **5.** Read more to find out


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Titan **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(tn) (ty-tun) **1.** Between god and demigod as far as power **2.** Usually evil and very dangerous


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Typhon **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(ty-fon) **1.** Massive storm monster, threatens to take Olympus **2.** Gods barely stopped him once, now he is stronger and gods are weaker **3.** Gods defeat with help of Cyclops


 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Tyson **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(cps)(tigh-son) Percy’s Cyclops brother

Wicked Book Review By Rebekah G.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">Zeus **<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 16pt;">(gd) (zoos) most powerful god, god of the skies; aides in battle against typhoon

The book Wicked is about the Wicked Witch of the West from the popular story, The Wizard of Oz. Wicked talks about how Elphaba grew up with her sister and brother while her father was a priest. The only problem was that Elphaba, was of course, green. From the day she was born she was written off as wicked, hence the title of the book. Later in her life Elphaba went to the school Shiz University. While at Shiz University Elphaba becomes the assistant to Dr. Dillamond, who is a goat who can speak and is a teacher at Shiz. Elphaba also manages to become roommates with Galinda, who is the exact opposite of Elphaba. Dr. Dillamond is soon murdered and under the unusal circumstances of his death Galinda and Elphaba become more of friends and less of enemies. A new kid shows up at Shiz named Fiyero. Fiyero, Galinda and Elphaba all become friends. Then out of nowhere Galinda and Elphaba go to the Emerald City to talk to the Wizard of Oz because he’s being a total dicator and so then Galinda goes back to Shiz but Elphaba doesn’t. And then years later after everybody is like an adult Fiyero comes to the Emerald City and see’s Elphaba because she’s kind of hard to miss, but then they start talking and Fiyero’s married. And so then Elphaba and Fiyero have an affair. And so then in a very ill-explained accident where the reader has no clue what happened Fiyero dies. And then Elphaba feels really guilty and so she goes to tell Fiyero’s wife that she killed him. And then Fiyero’s wife won’t listen, prolonging Elphaba’s stay. And so then Elphaba stays there for years and years and years until these army people show up. So then Elphaba’s sister Nessarose becomes the Eminent Thropp of Munchkinland and then Munchkinland becomes a free state and so Elphaba goes to Munchkinland to reason with Nessarose about some of the stuff that she’s doing against the Wizard of Oz which is always a bad idea because he is massive dictator person. And then while Elphaba is away the people at Kiamo Ko, where Fiyero’s wife was, are all kidnapped except for Elphaba’s old nanny who was there for some reason. And then Dorothy shows up and crushes Nessarose and makes Elphaba mad and then Dorothy goes to the Wizard of Oz and is supposed to kill Elphaba but then she says sorry to Elphaba for killing Nessarose instead and kills Elphaba on accident.

You absolutely need to read this book. Just about every writer in the world wishes they’d written something anywhere close to Wicked. And it’s probably the best fantasy book in the world. The way that Gregory Maguire created a whole world with its own languages and customs is absolutely phenomenal.

This book is very similar to The Wizard of Oz because, well it’s based off of the Wizard of Oz. It includes all of the basic characters, and even sheds new light on some of them. For example how Elphaba saved the Cowardly Lion’s life, and how much of a dictator The Wizard of Oz was. If you think that the citizens of Oz greeted Dorothy warmly, you have another thing coming to you, and if you think that Toto was cute then you are very wrong. Not to mention Dorothy’s false kindness. It’s safe to say that you will never look at The Wizard of Oz again after reading this book.

Max F. By: Eoin Colfer**
 * Artemis Fowl Book Review

Artemis Fowl junior, heir to the Fowl multi-million empire, has set out on laborious task of restoring the Fowl reputation as the richest and most powerful of Irish families. How? Fairy Gold. The 12 year old genius has discovered a hidden race. A race older than humans and much more advanced. The fairy race. After the ingenious kidnap of a LEPrecon officer by Artemis, the story descends into turmoil of battles and humor, finishing up with the most unexpected of endings.

This story is a must-read. Suspense, action, humor, and fantasy combine to create the perfect story that will draw any reader into it. The wonder and thought that the simple idea of this story is huge. Almost every part is connected to modern life and explains how some of the things can happen without the outside world noticing.

I, personally, happen to be the same age as the genius in this book and know that there are many disadvantages. Especially when it comes to being taken seriously. The world today doesn’t realize it, but the age of Artemis has a lot to do with his success. He is at the threshold of a larger mental capacity yet just leaving the edge of fantasy, making the perfect time to figure this out. This story also greatly relates with the series; Fablehaven, combining fantasy and the modern world to make the ultimate story. In all, Eoin Colfer has created an amazing world in his book, Artemis Fowl.

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">BOOK REVIEW By Anna B. //__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle __//<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">, by Avi, weaves the tale of a 13 year old girl who goes on a life changing voyage. From the moment she sets foot on the Seahawk, things go from strange, to bazaar. In this coming of age story, it has both mystery and excitement that will leave you dying to turn each page. Charlotte Doyle is a young lady who has spent her life learning manners, etiquette, and how to be a proper lady. The minute Charlotte sets sail on the Seahawk, none of that matters. The only person she feels truly understands her world is Captain Jaggery. But when he becomes someone Charlotte can’t confide in, so she takes matters into her own hands and becomes a crew member. After she is finally accepted, she is accused of murder, and will be hung if found guilty. When Charlotte discovers the real killer, she realizes that she has to choose between her life and a friend’s. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">This book is a breath catching adventure as well as a daring mystery. People of all ages will enjoy this timeless tale of overcoming obstacles and challenging society. If you liked //__The Giver__// then you’ll love //__The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle__//, by Avi.

**The Siege of Macindaw Book Review**
 * by Matthew R.

The Siege of Macindaw by John Flanaghan is a great book. The story takes place in a medieval time period in a made up country called Araluen. The main character is a boy named Will who joined an elite Special Forces group called the Rangers. The Rangers are a mysterious group; they wear black cloaks and sneak around the country only being seen when they want to be. They fight with knives and bows in the dark. The Araluen population fears and respects the Rangers. The Rangers strike terror into the heart of their enemies before they even arrive. Strange events occur in a northern castle and Will and his friends are sent to investigate. Will discovers that a general in this northern castle called Macindaw intends to betray his country. He intends to turn over the castle to Araluen’s enemy, a barbarian tribe called the Scotti (who sound suspiciously like the Scottish,) and help the invaders destroy Araluen. Will must stop this plan and also save a friend that the treacherous general has kidnapped.**
 * This book reminds us of the days of knights and castles. In this book there are several things that make this book seem more realistic, as it seems to have things like the code of chivalry. **
 * John Flanaghan did an amazing job with this book. Every page is action packed and filled with suspense. He makes you need to keep reading and has satisfying answers to the questions the book creates. The entire Ranger’s apprentice series is fantastic, and it has two parts so far. If you only read the fifth book in the series, which is the book before the Siege of Macindaw, then this book will make sense. If you didn’t read the fifth book it would still be good, but it would be a little confusing. Overall you should definitely try and read this as soon as you get the chance. **

Bill C. Book Review

The book, //__Season of Gifts__// by **Richard Peck** is an invigorating story! Where Bobby, the main character has to face many challenges. The story begins when Bobby moves to this terrifying new town. For instance, there are these bullies that strip him stark naked and throw him in the river. Mrs. Dowdel is an old lady that helps Bobby only once. The reason behind that is because the bullies tie him up while he is still nude upside down by his ankles, inside Mrs. Dowdels house. While the son and his father try to fix up the church, the older kids a.k.a the bullies, keep shooting out the windows. The only son and his sisters (Ruth Ann, and Phyllis are trying to get used to the town, nobody is making it easier. Meanwhile at the grade school, teachers have been trying to make it hard for the youngest. He is Billy Ocean being the greatest singer in the eyes of the town, the most respected singer ever. The family has and apparently will never get any respect. One night while the brother and his sisters are walking, the little girl loses her doll. When the brother and older sister go looking for it, they find themselves at the worst predicament of there young lives, there at Mrs. Dowdel’s house. That night they are in dream land and then are awakened unpleasantly by two loud gunshots, all fired by Mrs. Dowdel. Then the police come and then start a fight with Mrs. Dowdel.

So if you want to know what happens next, you will have to read the book //__Season of__// __Gifts__. I highly recommend you read the book and you will be whisked away to a magical world.