Review: Lion by Jeff Stone

Lion by Jeff Stone. Book 2 in the Out of the Ashes Series.

Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: September 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780375870194

Review: Have you ever had a passion that you loved, but it turned out to be a complete disaster? Jeff Stone, author of The Five Ancestors out of the Ashes: Lion, brings a novel about a kid named Ryan with big dreams of biking. However his dreams slowly fall apart, in this action packed book filled with adventure. This book is part of the Five Ancestors out of the Ashes, series.

Ryan discovers through a biking accident that his body begins to heal rapidly. He believes the drug, dragon bone, is a performance enhancer. He begins to question what his uncle gave him. As he begins to research the drug, he discovers that the drug dragon bone is connected to a line of deaths. During a visit to his cousin's house, he signs up for a biking competition with his friends. His cousin suddenly is found missing. DuSow, the antagonist, captures Peter and holds him hostage. DuSow suggests that he will let the cousin go if Ryan joins his bicycling team. Ryan and his friends go to the biking stadium to race. Then in the middle of the race Ryan drops out secretly to save his cousin. Will Ryan save Peter, or will DuSow beat him to it? Find out in The Five Ancestors out of the Ashes: Lion.I would recommend this book to a kid or an adult that is interested in realistic fiction. The main character, Ryan, is a dynamic character that demonstrates his bravery by trying to save his kidnapped cousin from DuSow, the evil enemy. This book is appropriate for boys and girls in grades 5th through 7th grade. Readers who are interested in action packed adventure will find this book interesting. The author, Jeff Stone, write a series of books that all has animal related Kung Fu. The book has some higher-level words, but, if you're a high level reader I bet you can read and understand this book if you are in a grade lower than 5th grade. I love this book because of all the action packed adventure about Kung Fu and biking. Jeff Stone writes a series called The Five Ancestors all of the books in the series involve Kung Fu. If you like martial arts and biking, this is the right book for you.

Review written by Matthew (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Lion for this review.

Have you read Lion? How would you rate it?

Review: How to Make Friends and Monsters by Howard Boward

How to Make Friends and Monsters by Howard Boward.

ZonderKidz
Publication Date: August 2013
List Price: $12.99
ISBN-13: 9780310736073

Review: Do you know how it feels to be oppressed? Well, Howard Boward, the main character of How to Make Friends and Monsters does, he experiences it every day. Being called How-Lame or How-Weird everyday by the UPs (the Uber Populars) doesn't feel good, until he becomes one because of an accidental experiment creating his powerful, giant, hairy monster named Franklin Stein that eventually becomes his best friend. Ron Bates wrote this diverting, attention-grabbing book. Howard Boward's journey from How-Lame to How-Cool is an incredible time for him. It is like a dream for him but how will it change his friendship with others?

Howard Boward is a boy who hasn't always been a very popular person. He wants to be an Uber Popular. Just when you think that a nerd has no chance of being popular you are wrong. Howard decides to actually make a friend with animal DNA, wonder putty, and some weird chemicals. When Howard looks back at the blob, he notices it changing. In a few days, the blob turns into the giant but nice monster named Franklin Stein. Franklin and Howard become best friends, but getting popular gets to Howard, leading him to forget about him. Franklin feels double-crossed so he goes to live with Uncle Ben. When Howard asks to borrow Reynolds' phone he calls Uncle Ben and asks to talk to him. Franklin says 'hi' but he refuses to talk further. Then, Howard accidentally calls Crystal, who is a major gossiper. She over-hears that Franklin is a monster, and Howard tells her not to tell anyone. She wouldn't if he created a monster for her. He does, but Crystal tells the other UPs, and now, all of them want one. He makes them, but they want to give them back. He knows he can't care for giant animals, so he refuses. Then, the UPs bring Howard to The Palace, which is their hideout. What will happen to Howard? Will anyone save him? Read the book to find out!

This book, in my opinion, was fantastic! I really liked how it's not realistic! I like books that have super-powers, monsters, aliens, and other fake things. Giant monsters are better than boring stories about history. I loved how they kept pushing the story further, instead of stopping it short. It would be interesting it if there was a sequel of this book; it would be great. What is great about this book is that it has a theme to it. It shows friendship is important. It also shows that you need to be loyal to people to remain friends. It also shows that people can change: good to bad, or bad to good. It doesn't matter if you have popular friends or not only the real friends matter the most. True friends stick with you no matter what. Some parts in the book I didn't like because they were confusing because Howard uses Reynolds' phone to call Uncle Ben, what I didn't get is, how does Reynolds have Crystal's number? He wasn't popular. This book's story line is really meant for boys. Most girls aren't interested in monsters, science, fires, and football, but most guys love those things. You should read the book if you like fictional things. This book isn't meant for serious people. I personally liked the storyline. It was action, sci-fi, and adventure. This book is one of the best I have read! A great audience for this book would be for kids around ages 9-12 because it is engaging, but it is also a long book to read. Or those kids who like to play with toy monsters, who like science, and whoever likes creating things. So, if you like any of those things, you should read How to Make Friends and Monsters by Ron Bates! Enjoy your journey!

Review written by Kenneth (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Zonderkidz for providing a copy of How to Make Friends and Monsters for this review.

Have you read How to Make Friends and Monsters? How would you rate it?

Review: A New Home for Lily by Mary Ann Kinsinger and Suzanne Woods Fisher

A New Home for Lily by Mary Ann Kinsinger and Suzanne Woods Fisher. An Adventure of Lily Lapp Book.

Revell
Publication Date: February 2013
List Price: $12.99
ISBN-13: 9780800721336

Review: Baa! Neigh! Come on over to the Lapp family's Amish house and farm, in Pennsylvania. A New Home for Lily by Mary Ann Kinsinger is the second book in a series that features Lilly Lap as the main character.

Lily is an Amish girl that lives with her Mama, Papa, and her brothers Joseph and Dannie. She just moved from New York to a small farm in Pennsylvania. The book tells about how they live their lives on their newfound farm home. On their second day at the farm, Lily goes to a new school. She meets a mean girl named Effie, a kind girl named Beth, and a very annoying boy named Aaron. As Lily goes to school, the weather changes and the holidays come and go. Soon, she gets a special surprise, a new baby brother named Paul. As she grows up, many different things happen to her. Papa falls off the roof, she makes gray Jell-O, and he cousin moves next door. What happens next, that's for you to read. The many adventures that Lily has never end!

I really liked A New Home for Lily! It is a must read book for girls ages 8-12. It has family, love and fun on the farm! It begins with the Lapp family moving to Pennsylvania and then stories about how they live their life afterward. It is a pretty big book with around 260 pages, but is an easy read. If you like Little House on the Prairie and like playing house, you will love this book! It has a few pictures every page so you can picture what's happening in your head. It is not a good book for boys, because a girl named Lily is the main character. I hope there is another book coming out in this series, but I can't promise anything. You should read and love this book.

Enjoy!

Review written by Katlyn (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Revell for providing a copy of A New Home for Lily for this review.

Have you read A New Home for Lily? How would you rate it?

Review: Joshua Dread: The Nameless Hero by Lee Bacon

Joshua Dread: The Nameless Hero by Lee Bacon. A Joshua Dread Book.

Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: September 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780385741866

Review: How does it feel to be famous superhero? Can things too out of hand? Lee Bacon's genius book, Joshua Dread: The Nameless Hero starts off with Joshua receiving an invitation to Gyfted & Talented, a mysterious program for children with superpowers.

Joshua's entire summer plan is turned upside down as he goes through training to help him prepare for the battle against the man who wouldn't want anything more than to have Joshua dead. That man is Phineas Vex, who is thought to have been dead. As he prepares for battle, Joshua and his friends Sophie and Milton get more than they bargained for as they discover the secrets behind Gyfted & Talented.

When I picked up Joshua Dread: The Nameless Hero, I expected another one of those stereotypical superhero stories. I was VERY wrong. Joshua, the main character, doesn't even know he possesses superpowers or a 'gyft'. Both of his parents are super villains, which makes his life even more bewildering and comedic because most of their inventions horribly fail. Also, I love that every chapter ends in suspense, though some chapters may have tried a little too hard in order to create suspense. Joshua Dread is the perfect book for boys ages 9-13 because it has a lot of action packed scenes involving super heroes. This book starts off with every character seeming like they have a secret, but as you read you learn more and more about them, readers may even feel a connection with them. I don't want to give anything away for the readers planning on reading this book, but I wasn't expecting that plot twist at the end. Now I'm stuck impatiently waiting for the next bookÉ if there is one.

Review written by Josh (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Joshua Dread: The Nameless Hero for this review.

Have you read Joshua Dread: The Nameless Hero? How would you rate it?

Review: Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things by Cynthia Voigt

Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things by Cynthia Voigt. Book 1 in the Mister Max Series.

Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: September 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780307976819

Review: Max is one small boy on an old bicycle and has very strange eyes. His grandmother Grammie is a librarian. Ari is Max's tutor and he is a "lost child". Pia is a girl who helps Max solve his cases. Cynthia Voigt tells the story of an intelligent little boy, Max, basically living on his own. Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things is the first book of an amazing series of books about the adventures of Mister Max.

Mister Max is a story about a boy, Max Starling, the son of two actors, William and Mary Starling, who gets invited to a ship called Flower of Kashmir. When Max gets to the harbor to board the ship, he finds that his parents are gone! The only thing left was a letter from his father saying that they cannot take him with them. Max, confused by the letter, turns to his grandmother, Grammie, for help. Max is, unsure of what to do and starts to work as an unlicensed "detective". While trying to uncover the secrets of his parents' disappearance, he meets two other people, Ari who is Max's math tutor, and Pia, a girl who hates people who show off their pets. Both characters help Max uncover the mysteries of his detective works.

Cynthia Voigt is an excellent author. Because Max is also an actor, she writes good points about how Max uses his talent as an actor to solve mysteries that come his way. I disliked why Cynthia Voigt made Pia so annoying and why Ari is working so much or what he is up to with the money he earns. I like that she made up for these confusions with the quality of the book. It is well written and intriguing. Mister Max is highly recommended for 9-11 year olds or for younger high-level readers.

Review written by Jarred (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things for this review.

Have you read Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things? How would you rate it?

Review: Revenge of a Not-So-Pretty Girl by Carolita Blythe

Revenge of a Not-So-Pretty Girl by Carolita Blythe.

Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: April 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780385742863

Review: Did you ever do something horrible that you still regret to this day? You probably think that what you did was just an accident and it wasn't really your fault, or was it? Is the guilt still right behind you blowing it's icy-cold breathe that's chilling your neck, making your hair stand on edge? If you had that experience, then you have something related to Faye, the main character of Revenge of a Not-So-Pretty-Girl, by Carolita Blythe. It is a great read that would keep you reading for hours and hours.

Faye and her friends, Caroline and Gillian are bad girls. They feel justified to attack the rich because they feel like the rich takes advantage of money and also, they have a condescending attitude towards the poor. They are bad enough to rob and almost kill a poor old woman who lives in apartment 1H. Faye and her friends heard that a famous "movie star" (the old lady) lived in the apartment building. They needed some extra cash and they were bored, so there they were in the apartment building, patiently waiting for the lady to come home. When the lady finally walked in, she walked into the lobby with handfuls of groceries, Gillian and Faye rushed up to "help" the innocent lady. Caroline offers to bring the groceries inside her cozy little apartment. The lady accepts the offer, but what she doesn't know is that that was a big mistake. The next thing she knew, she was being pushed by one of the girls and being asked where all her money is hidden. Soon after, Faye fights with the old woman and sends her flying to the floor. The old woman laid there lifeless. Did Faye kill the old woman? Can Faye make it right or will she have to live with the dreadful wrong? Will Faye ever want to get revenge on anyone ever again?

Revenge of a Not-So-Pretty-Girl is suspenseful, riveting, and compelling. In the book, the characters have interesting personalities. Like, "both of you, shut up," Caroline responds. "And why'd you have to punch me, Faye? Next time you do that, I'm punching you back harder." This statement also exemplifies that repeated exposure desensitizes a person's moral compass. In some situations within the story the setting can be confusing and unclear. There are also many moral messages. Like, desensitization, revenge, prejudice, karma, and guilt, power/control. Over all, I thought Revenge of a Not-So-Pretty Girl was a great book. I would recommend the book to people that like crime/drama stories. The age range for the book should be around 12-14 because the book has some adult language and has some complicated story lines. I hope other young readers will read and enjoy Revenge of a Not-So-Pretty Girl and you find out what really happens to Faye and the old lady. You will not be able to put the book down until you finish it!

Review written by Jamie (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Revenge of a Not-So-Pretty Girl for this review.

Have you read Revenge of a Not-So-Pretty Girl? How would you rate it?

Review: Super Jack by Susanne Gervay

Super Jack by Susanne Gervay.

Kane Miller
Publication Date: October 2013
List Price: $5.99
ISBN-13: 9781610671293

Review: No, I want this!

"But I want this!"

Starts the bickering in Super Jack. Have you ever had to increase your family? If you have, then you will be to relate to the book Super Jack a heartwarming and caring story written the author Susanne Gerway.

Super Jack is about a 12-year-old boy named Jack who needs to get used to taking in new family members of his family. After living with his sister, grandma and mom, his mom dates a man named Rob. Then when Rob declares that he wants to take a family trip up North to see his son Leo, it sounds like the perfect family vacation because of the gorgeous beaches, the awesome theme parks and the fact that Jack can bring his friend, Anna along; but will Leo's presence will it ruin the whole thing. When on this vacation they could do a lot of fun things like eating ice cream and a lot of fun family stuff. But when Jack finds secretive stuff about Leo like how he does not like Nana or how he hid the big bag of gummy worms he may not be able to cooperate with him. However, in the end, Jack and Leo need to unite in order care for someone who is the loveliest person in the world.

Super Jack was very realistic, for example, in the story the whole family bickers which is common behavior in many families. Also Jack's family goes to vacations, to theme parks, they eat breakfast together, and so much more! I also like how Jack has a conflict with Leo because I sometimes fight with my own brother. Another good thing about this book was that Gerway used the most age appropriate words for this book. Another way Gerway did what all good authors do, is that she made the setting one of the big elements of the book; because without the traveling or Jack's house all of this couldn't happen. One thing I didn't like was the jokes because sometimes they were a little crummy, but that is okay because in general, Gerway did write a good story. She even wrote another book, I Am Jack which involves the same characters. If you want to find a book where you can relate to the characters and plot. This book is also good for a family to read together because they can relate to this book, even with young readers.

Review written by Ian (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Kane Miller for providing a copy of Super Jack for this review.

Have you read Super Jack? How would you rate it?

Review: Dust Girl by Sarah Zettel

Dust Girl by Sarah Zettel. Book 1 in The American Fairy Trilogy.

Publication Date: June 2013
List Price: $9.99
ISBN-13: 9780375873812

Review: Sarah Zettel has started off her new series with the great hit, Dust Girl. Callie LeRoux, small Kansas girl, had known all her life that her father wasn't coming back and that her mother was forever crazy for thinking so, but with the arrival of the greatest sandstorm in history everything in Callie's world has been flipped upside down. Her mother taken captive by the beautiful Seelie; her father, well thanks to the help of a stranger caught amongst the dust, has been locked up still trying to be forced to marry the Seelie princess.

Callie has just experienced the worst shock of her life, the greatest dust storm in history, her mama gone for good, a man and his fortunes, and now meeting a young boy Jack Holland who claims Callie's a fairy. She found Jack on the way to get food for her new "costumers" in a prison cell humming along to an old railroad tune. Taking pity upon him she releases him and has her work for him, becoming incredible friends. Through tight locks, railroad busts, and undead sheriffs Jack and Callie's relationship has grown tighter and tighter. Even after the sudden disappearance on Jack and the change in Callie they remain everlasting friends.

This book is for 2nd graders and up. The land of fairies and magical creatures has taken a new turn in this book. If you love magic and fairytales and happy endings then you should try out this book. The two part series has all the magic and fairies to last you a lifetime. Take a step into a small town Kansas's girl's life and experience all the adventures, danger, anger, love, and feelings of a girl lost in a huge world, or make that two worlds. Callie has discovered the land of the fairies, a huge world where her grandparents are king and queen, her father a prince, and Callie a princess. But this world is more dangerous than it seems, if a human or fairy eats or drinks from this world they can never leave. Sound thrilling? Go grab a copy of Dust Girl by Sarah Zettel today, you won't regret it.

Review written by Emily (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Dust Girl for this review.

Have you read Dust Girl? How would you rate it?

Review: Dancer Daughter Traitor Spy by Elizabeth Kiem

Dancer Daughter Traitor Spy by Elizabeth Kiem.

Soho Teen
Publication Date: August 2013
List Price: $17.99
ISBN-13: 9781616952631

Review: Do you want to read a book about a girl who has to multitask every day? If so then Dancer, Daughter, Traitor, Spy by Elizabeth Kiem is a good book for you. It is about a girl named Marina.

Marina and her father have to escape Russia and Soviet Union. Her mother was born with a special gift and Marina has it too. When Marina and her father arrive in America she wants to become a dancer again. Her father enrolls her in a high school and she quickly makes some friends. She goes to an audition for the American Ballet School. She has a vision of something bad and now she has to decide whom she can and can't trust. What does the vision bring and how will it affect Marina? Who will she trust?

I liked the book and its story line. But this book will better appeal to girls rather than boys. Some boys may like the book because there is some action in the plot. Dancer, Daughter, Traitor, Spy is probably intended for girls ages 10 to 13. Dancer, Daughter, Traitor, Spy has a few high level words and has some Russian in it. The book made me smile when Marina was dancing again. Overall I enjoyed Dancer, Daughter, Traitor, Spy and I hope you will too. It was a great book and girls and boys may appeal to it.

Review written by Elizabeth (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Soho Teen for providing a copy of Dancer Daughter Traitor Spy for this review.

Have you read Dancer Daughter Traitor Spy? How would you rate it?

Review: The Dark Between by Sonia Gensler

The Dark Between by Sonia Gensler.

Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: August 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780375867026

Review: Have you ever lost a friend? If you have you could very well connect with a character in The Dark Between. The Dark Between is written by Sonia Gensler. There are numerous characters some of the main characters are Kate, Asher, and Elsie.

Kate is a 14-year-old girl who works for Mrs. Martineau, but when Mrs. Martineau's show is committed fraud she can no longer work or live with Mrs.Martineau. Kate had nowhere to go because she was an orphan. For a night she stayed at her friend Tec's house. Then she finds out that her dad had a good friend named Mr. Thompson, and that he owned a college near by. When Kate goes to the college to see if he would allow Kate to stay she meets a man named Asher. Both Asher and Kate need to see Mr. Thompson. Kate needs to see him because she needs a place to stay, and would like to see if Mr. Thompson would allow her to stay. Asher needs to see if Mr. Thompson would allow him to stay there at the college also. Mr. Thompson agrees that both kids can stay. While Kate and Asher are both living there they meet Elsie who is Mr. Thompson's niece. While Kate is living there she learns that one of her good friends has passed away. Asher and Elsie try to help Kate figure out who killed Billy, Kate's good friend. While they try to figure out the mystery, Elsie reveals a secret to them that could help then figure out who killed Billy. When they have and idea who might have killed Billy they look for clues, but when they are looking for clues Kate finds out that her other friend Tec has died. Who killed them? Why did they kill them? Those answers will be answered if you read The Dark Between.

This book I would say is intended for girls because there is some romance in it. I would say it could be for older girls because The Dark Between does have some words I did not know. I would recommend this book for 8th grade girls who like mystery, romantic, and dramatic books. I enjoyed it because it was a good mystery story. Also it has some twists to it, and it makes you eager to read it. The book had a good story line also. The Dark Between also makes you wonder while you are reading. Another detail I liked about The Dark Between it describes everything very well. With all the details you could picture all of the events and characters in the story. One thing I did not like about the beginning was that it was a little confusing. Also it seemed a bit long. Also to add the beginning was not as exciting has the other parts of the book. But other than that that this is a magnificent book.

Review written by Danessa (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of The Dark Between for this review.

Have you read The Dark Between? How would you rate it?

Review: Task Force by Brian Falkner

Task Force by Brian Falkner. A Recon Team Angel Book.

Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: September 2013
List Price: $17.99
ISBN-13: 9780449812990

Review: Imagine if you were 17 years old and the fate of the world was in your hands. In Task Force by Brian Falkner, that is exactly what happens to Lieutenant Ryan "Lucky" Chisnall and his elite squad of teenage soldiers. Together they form Recon Team Angel, and their mission is not an easy one.

In 2012, a group of aliens called Bzadians came to Earth to destroy the human race. Over the last 25 years, the Bzadians have taken over most of Europe, Asia, and Australia. Australia is now called New Bzadia and is the Bzadian's main headquarters. The Bzadians are perched in Russia waiting for the Bering Strait to freeze over so they can take over their final conquest-the Americas. If they succeed, the human race will be wiped out.

Chosen for their intellectual and physical abilities, Chisnall and his team have been surgically modified to resemble the Bzadians. With their knowledge of Bzadian language and culture, they are able to blend in behind enemy lines. The only hope for saving the human race is to invade New Bzadia and sneak in a fleet of the remaining world's military. If they are able to cut off the alien army's fuel and supplies, humanity might just have a chance.

This is book two in Brian Falkner's Recon Team Angel series. Even those who haven't read book one, The Assault, will be able to jump right into Task Force. Teenagers and young adults alike will be riveted by this military recount of their special mission. Follow the team as they evade capture, interact with the alien species, and put their lives on the line over and over again. It's hard to keep in mind that the members of Team Angel are merely children, with their innate military skills and ability to think clearly under pressure. Readers will feel the excitement of every small battle and feel the tension that mounts, as they get closer to their objective. Will the human race survive? Will our heroes survive? These questions are in your head until the very end.

Review written by Christian (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Task Force for this review.

Have you read Task Force? How would you rate it?

Review: Captive Maiden by Melanie Dickerson

Captive Maiden by Melanie Dickerson.

Zondervan
Publication Date: October 2013
List Price: $9.99
ISBN-13: 9780310724414

Review: Cinderella is a classic fairytale. You know the story, you know how it has a lot of magic; but what you didn't know is that the story is still magical without the magic. It is possible, especially in the story The Captive Maiden the story of Gisela a bright courageous girl living with her stepfamily. The story The Captive Maiden was written by Melanie Dickerson who has an amazing skill for writing.

The Captive Maiden is about a young girl Gisela who's father has died leaving her to his evil step-wife Evfemia and her two wicked daughters Irma and Contzel. All her life only the thought of her father, who died when she was little, and the Duke's own son, Valten, kept her happy. Many years later, when running into Fredric Ruexnr, Valten's worst enemy, was when Valten and Gisela met. Valten wanted her to come to the tournament he would be fighting in where he crowns her The Queen of Beauty and Love. This makes Evfemia jealous so she locks Gisela in her room to be bought by none other than Fredric Ruexner. Can Gisela avoid Ruexner and make it to the ball? If so will Ruexner plot revenge on Gisela and Valten? If you want to knowÉ you will have to read The Captive Maiden for yourself.

The Captive Maiden is an interesting story with reasons why the reader may or may not enjoy the book. One thing is there is no magic. Personally, someone might enjoy a Cinderella story without magic. Others might think that there is no Cinderella without magic. So this may change your opinion on if you would read The Captive Maiden. Also The Captive Maiden is incredibly descriptive. I felt like I was Gisela, I was distressed when she was locked in her room, I rejoiced when she was crowned The Queen of Beauty and Love. However at some times Melanie Dickerson was over descriptive, The Captive Maiden has a little violence. Some people get broken bones and there is a little blood. Some readers may think the action is thrilling, some however may not read the book because of the violence. I think the part of The Captive Maiden that made it a truly meaningful story was Gisela's positive attitude. All the years Gisela spent with her stepfamily she had two things to keep her happy, Valten and her dad displaying a true passion for Gisela's love - making for an incredible book.

I would suggest The Captive Maiden to anyone who thought most of the qualities, such as no magic, and description, make for a fantastic story.

Review written by Ashley (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Zonderkidz for providing a copy of Captive Maiden for this review.

Have you read Captive Maiden? How would you rate it?

Review: The Wolf Princess by Cathryn Constable

The Wolf Princess by Cathryn Constable.

Chicken House/Scholastic
Publication Date: October 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780545528399

Review: It seemed so wonderfully, beautifully, romantically different from anything she had known. And yet, she felt, somehow not different at all. Sophie is a girl from rainy London and she dreams of a magical place such as this one. The author Cathryn Constable has written The Wolf Princess in such a frosty, cheek-blushing way that you just can't get enough of the wild and beautiful forest. This book is filled with all of the magical action, adventure, and truth that you can handle.

Sophie Smith and her two best friends, Delphine and Marianne, live in London. Sophie's father has died, and the girls soon end up somewhere in Russia that strangely reminds Sophie of her beloved father, and her frosty dreams. They discover a new friend, Anna Volkonskaya, who takes them on a journey that they will all never forget. But when a princess turns out to be nothing they had ever expected, and when a wolf unexpectedly shows up, Sophie has to become another person to save a wonderful palace, friends, wolves, and a princess.

The Wolf Princess is the most creative, wildest, and frostiest story I have ever read! The setting made the story very interesting. The blowing snow and the wild forest created a great image in my mind. I cannot relate to any of the characters in this book, for they are all so unique. Cathryn's writing style made this story keep going like when Sophie said, ÒYes, I saw it.Ó What did she see? Read and find out! This book would be great for grades 5 - 9. The Wolf Princess started out very slow and calm, but quickly became magical, exciting, and wild! This story is also told in first person and that made the story very easy to understand and that made the setting very detailed. This story showed me to go with your gut and at times, when you need to, don't follow the rules.

Review written by Ada (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Scholastic for providing a copy of The Wolf Princess for this review.

Have you read The Wolf Princess? How would you rate it?

Review: Revenge by Gabrielle Lord

Revenge by Gabrielle Lord. A Conspiracy 365 Novel.

Kane Miller
Publication Date: March 2013
List Price: $5.99
ISBN-13: 9781610671606

Review: "There's another one! There's another one!" Conspiracy 365, one of the best middle-grade/young adult mystery series to be written in recent years has added another installment, Revenge, by Gabrielle Lord. Revenge takes off where the original series stopped. Cal has come out of his 365 days on the run and is trying to acclimate himself to "normal" life. Unfortunately the press makes that difficult. Told through the eyes of Boges, Revenge brings Cal's greatest adversary back to the forefront and engages Cal and his friends in another fight for their lives.

When Cal receives a mysterious not on his pillow, a sense of dread fills his soul. "30" is all it reads. When Cal's friends arrive at his house for movie night, they find that he's gone and they know right away that it's not over. Hiding from Cal's mom and the police, Boges, Winter, and Ryan are thrust into the most frightening 30 days of their lives.

The original Conspiracy 365 series is unbelievably gripping - propelling readers to get through the twelve books in record time. Revenge, though a good book, doesn't have that same effect. Whether it's the fact that it's told through Boges' eyes or the sense that there's no way any of this would really happen, Revenge falls short of the expectations of Conspiracy 365 fans. That being said, Lord does an exceptional job of bring the readers up to speed with what happened for the last twelve months of Cal's life without it seeming tedious, making it possible for Revenge to be read independent of the series. However, that is not recommended. It would be preferred that Revenge be a longer book to allow for a more developed plot and potential to build suspense. All in all, Revenge is a good book, but it's just not a great book. Readers of the Conspiracy 365 series should definitely pick up Revenge, but don't hold it to the same expectations.

Review written by Margo Nauert (6th grade teacher).

We would like to thank Kane Miller for providing a copy of Revenge for this review.

Have you read Revenge? How would you rate it?

Review: A Matter of Days by Amber Kizer

A Matter of Days by Amber Kizer.

Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: June 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780385739733

Review: Did anyone survive the Bluestar? Can we get to Uncle Bean's place? Will we survive? young Nadia asks herself as she sets on a journey half way across America in A Matter of Days by Amber Kizer.

A Matter of Days is about a journey of clouded Nadia, her younger brave brother, lovable Twawki a dog they discovered, and a street-smart boy named Zack. Nadia's mom has died of a horrific military-made disease called the Bluestar. It has already killed 98% of the world's population but Nadia and her younger brother are snuck shots from their Uncle Bean the man who created the disease. Perplexed by the unpredictable journey they come across many endangerments and menacing people and know only to be a cockroach, which taught to them by their father in the means to survive like one or, by be one in a harsh environment. Will they make it to their Uncle's house in time to save their lives? You'll just have to find out yourself.

A Matter of Days is must-read, and intended for late elementary and middle school students. Trust me there is nothing unappealing about A Matter of Days. One ingredient of a book recipe includes plot and this book has a plot that is mystifying, suspenseful, and engaging. For example in one part, all of a sudden cougars appeared as the characters were sleeping and then Nadia wakes surprised and says "We have no chance to attack without moving towards the gun." And has no idea what to do but then hears barking. Also the book exemplifies descriptive language, for example in the beginning Nadia thinks this sadly as she leaves her home and sees her mom lie dead "Quiet. Peace. Finally. Exhaustion frayed my edges, fringed my cogent mind until world-hazed gray blue." Finally it includes suspense that makes you sit on the edge of your seat and eating your nails wondering what is going to happen. For instance when a stampede comes they turn off the car and then hear gunshots The reader experiences what Zack, Nadia, and Rab see and hear as they panicked in fear. In conclusion check out the outstanding A Matter of Days by Amber Kizer.

Review written by Tej (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of A Matter of Days for this review.

Have you read A Matter of Days? How would you rate it?

Review: Desmond Pucket Makes Monster Magic by Mark Tatulli

Desmond Pucket Makes Monster Magic by Mark Tatulli.

Andrews McMeel Publishing
Publication Date: October 2013
List Price: $13.90
ISBN-13: 9781449435486

Review: Anything can happen with a little trust, coolness, and pixie dust! Well not exactly in Desmond Pucket Makes Monster Magic by Mark Tatulli where young Desmond learns a bit of a lesson and goes through a hard time in life.

From the world of scalawags and rapscallions comes a boy named Desmond Pucket, a schoolboy of Cloverfield Junior High who just loves pranks and laughs. But after one frightful and menacing prank, which takes it too far, he is at risk and discovers himself in trouble and potentially not going to his 6th grade field trip to Crab Shell Pier. This is a horrible fate for Desmond, because this is where he DREAMS of riding Mountain Full of Monsters. Can he clean up his act while staying true to himself? You'll just have to find out in the rib-tickling book Desmond Pucket Makes Monster Magic.

Desmond Pucket Makes Monster Magic is hilarious and intended for elementary students. One great attribute of the book is that it exemplifies Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney, which you know every kid adores because of the humor. Also Desmond Pucket Makes Monster Magic is really amusing because of the jokes, humorous illustrations, and funny pranks that play out while you read. For example, at one part, Desmond's mom comes and then all of a sudden an alien head pops out of his shirt! Another reason why Desmond Pucket in Monster Magic is a great story is that some kids may relate to the troublemaking of the main character and his friend. Readers quickly learn that two wrongs don't make a right. They also learn that it's important control yourself. One final great ingredient of the book is that it has a good vocabulary for elementary readers. Most words will be familiar, but there may be a few challenging ones that help them learn new words.

In conclusion, I recommend the great book Desmond Pucket Makes Monster Magic!

Review written by Tej (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Media Masters Publicity for providing a copy of Desmond Pucket Makes Monster Magic for this review.

Have you read Desmond Pucket Makes Monster Magic? How would you rate it?

Review: Alice Miranda Takes the Stage by Jacqueline Harvey

Alice Miranda Takes the Stage by Jacqueline Harvey. An Alice Miranda Book.

Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: May 2013
List Price: $14.99
ISBN-13: 9780385743334

Review: Look at this, mummy; All those beautiful dresses, and we're almost the same size. I'm sure she won't notice if one or two goes missing, Sloane said. The book, Alice-Miranda Takes the Stage by Jacqueline Harvey is a tale about Alice- Miranda, Millie, and Sloane. This story tells their adventures at Winchesterfield-Downsfordvale Academy for Proper Young Ladies. This is the latest book in the series.

The girls of Winchesterfield-Downsfordvale Academy for Proper Young Ladies start their school year when a new girl, Sloane Skyes, comes to school. Alice-Miranda is a rich girl who is kind and generous. She's kind to Sloane, but Sloane doesn't appreciate it. She has been at the school for several years. Many girls think Sloane is keeping a secret. Sloane's mother, September, wants Sloane to become friends with the wealthy kids. Sloane does have a secret, but she doesn't want anybody to know. Accidently, Alice-Miranda meets a new friend, Henrietta, who everyone in town thinks is a witch. Who could she be? Meanwhile, September and Sloane devise a plot. Will Alice-Miranda save the day before it's too late?

Alice-Miranda Takes the Stage is a tale of delight that would be appropriate for girls ages 8-11. An example of the feminine plot is "A new girl that's lovely. I can't wait to meet her. What is her name?" Anyone older than 10 or 11, might think the vocabulary is too easy. For instance, a character states, "Oh, I hope not. You know I can't stand horses. That won't be any fun at all." I enjoyed the book, even though it would switch the character's points of view often. That affected the story because I would be reading in Alice-Miranda's point of view. Then, in the next chapter, the author would switch to Sloane's point of view. When I realized this, the book was easier to read. I would guess ways to solve the mysteries. The characters have many different personalities, yet they still get along. I can relate to this. An example of the kind or abrupt language of the characters is "Are you lost? You're Sloane, aren't you. My name's Alice-Miranda Highton-Smith-Kennington-Jones and I'm very pleased to meet you." Sloane said, "No, I'm not lost. I'm just waiting for, what's her name, Dinka or something." This dialogue reminds me of my friends because we are all different in the way we respond to situations. This book had me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't wait to find out if September would get her way, or if Alice-Miranda would make things right. I liked the way the character's perception of others changed throughout the book. The author would have me thinking one idea, and then the plot moved in another direction. I certainly enjoyed Alice-Miranda Takes the Stage. The adventure, mystery, and dramaÉand I mean a lot of drama, will entertain upper elementary and middle school girls!

Review written by Madeline (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Alice Miranda Takes the Stage for this review.

Have you read Alice Miranda Takes the Stage? How would you rate it?

Review: Escape From the Pipe Men! by Mary G. Thompson

Escape From the Pipe Men! by Mary G. Thompson.

Clarion Books
Publication Date: June 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780547859057

Review: Imagine a world where kids are on display at a museum É as a human exhibit! That is the case for Ryan and Becky. But when their father who works with aliens develops a serious, rare disease, will they be able to find the antidote and save their dad? Find out the answer and so much more in the falling-off-the-edge-of-your-seat book, Escape From The Pipe Men by author Mary G. Thompson. If you want to find out what happens read this book review.

Ryan and Becky have always been human but their dad works with aliens. Although it seems fascinating, they find out that being an alien zookeeper isn't all fun and games. What they do find out is that being an alien zookeeper can be as hard at times, but can't be as hard as this time. When a dangerous rare alien pokes Ryan and Becky's dad, will they be able to trace where he came from and find its leader? Throughout the novel, they meet a lot of aliens that give Ryan and Becky help. For example they are given this anxious calculator from a one-of-a-kind species that can open any portal to any planet, any time. But there's a catch. Will they be able to save their dad and travel the galaxy without facing to many problems?

What I like about Escape From The Pipe Men is that Mary G. Thompson has the book action packed with problems, cool characters, awesome new places and so much more. I also liked how Thompson is so imaginative in creating characters like Ol-tub-ila, a big purple blob with I think one eye. She creates a good visual image of the pipe men too, which are these long characters that have tons of eyes. Would you want one of those by you? I personally liked all the events that happen such as how Ryan and Becky get to fly in an amazing spaceship. It is also clever how any portals can take you thousands of miles away. At some points, Thompson's writing is not as action packed as others, but that is okay. Something that makes the book stand out from others is the setting because it takes place on a whole different planet. It is said in the book that the planet sticks out from others because there is a gigantic spaceship station with rare supplies. Moreover I also like the writing style Thompson uses because she cleverly adds unexpected surprises. The creative characters are the most impressive though. So if you want to find out if Ryan and Becky can save their dad Escape From The Pipe Men is perfect for science fiction reader and adventure readers.

Review written by Ian (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Houghton Mifflin for providing a copy of Escape From the Pipe Men! for this review.

Have you read Escape From the Pipe Men!? How would you rate it?

Review: The Assault by Brian Falkner

The Assault by Brian Falkner. A Recon Team Angel Book.

Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: September 2012
List Price: $17.99
ISBN-13: 9780375871900

Review: What the heck is going on?

"We're sending them a message."

The Assault, written by Brian Falkner, is three intriguing books in one. The main characters are Lieutenant Chisnall, known as LT, Sergeant Brogan of the human race, and Lieutenant Yozi of the Bzadians.

To begin, Earth is invaded by aliens or as they call themselves, Bzadians. Civilians are forced to take refuge in the Americas, and Angel Team Four, a group of highly trained young recon units are sent to Australia or New Bzadi. They have a traitor on their team, but only the traitor and LT know that they have to infiltrate the main base of Uluru disguised as Bzadians, or as they like to call them "pukes". They make a very big enemy named Yozi who they tie to a tree because they thought it was unruly to kill an unarmed defenseless soldier. Was tying Yozi to the tree a good idea or the biggest mistake on the mission?

I would give The Assault four out of five stars. I enjoyed the author's writing style immensely. I was impressed by the amount of action and suspense, like at the end of the 1st book and beginning of the 2nd book, there was a raid starting but you didn't know whom the raid was from. Also, there were plenty of cliffhangers and many violent scenes. For example, in chapter 13 a bomb turns off the lights. In addition, I liked the descriptive words because it helped me picture and imagine the scene. This book would attract advanced 6th graders or 7th graders. Any older age would possibly think that the book is boring. I found Brian Falkner's writing style entertaining as he used war terms in the future and created futuristic weapons and machines. Overall, I thought that The Assault was a fascinating book.

Review written by Noah (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of The Assault for this review.

Have you read The Assault? How would you rate it?

Review: Jack Strong Takes a Stand by Tommy Greenwald

Jack Strong Takes a Stand by Tommy Greenwald.

Roaring Book Press
Publication Date: September 2013
List Price: $151.99
ISBN-13: 9781596438361

Review: After Jack Strong goes from class to class and gets tired from all he has to do, will he stand up for himself by saying no? Will middle school student Jack Strong's rebellion to not be overscheduled work? Find out in the book Jack Strong Takes A Stand by the author of the Charlie Joe Jackson series Tommy Greenwald.

Jack Strong Takes A Stand is a book about an 11-year-old middle school student named Jack Strong. Jack has been taking classes that he has not liked for years, and he has been rushing from activity to activity to be ready for college. He does everything from practicing sports all the way to studying different languages. But one day after school Jack is super tired from school and he asks his parents if he can skip soccer practice just this once and they say no. That is it for Jack, and he starts a rebellion. But after a few days, will he get famous? Jack doesn't realize all the attention that can come from a rebellion though. Will he be able to handle it? But after all the fame and the family fighting are they able to put this aside for something more important?

Jack Strong Takes A Stand is a astonishing story. Greenwald has made all these characters realistic. For example his writing makes Jack sound very realistic because anyone who is so over scheduled with all those activities would be very frustrated just like how Jack feels in the book. Also Greenwald uses unexpected twist that keeps readers on their toes. It is very cool how Greenwald uses the imagination of a middle school kid. For example he used Jack's imagination to have a crush on Cathy Bellows. Another thing that was very realistic in the story is Jack's family. What is very realistic is that families fight just like Jack's family does also the kids want to stand up for what they believe or sometimes they will talk back just like Jack does. A few parts of the story are not as realistic such as how Jack can get famous from a school newspaper to being all the way on his favorite T.V. show just for rebelling. But really honestly I loved this story. It addresses an issue for kids today - being over scheduled. So if you are looking for a good book to curl up and read, try Jack Strong Takes A Stand by Tommy Greenwald.

Review written by Ian (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Roaring Book Press for providing a copy of Jack Strong Takes a Stand for this review.

Have you read Jack Strong Takes a Stand? How would you rate it?

Review: The Morning Star by Robin Bridges

The Morning Star by Robin Bridges. Volume 3 of the Katerina Trilogy.

Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: August 2013
List Price: $17.99
ISBN-13: 9780385740265

Review: Romantic, dangerous, thrilling! Robin Bridges, author of the Katerina trilogy, has finished her series with an amazing ending in the third book, The Morning Star. Katerina's secret has been revealed, but can she keep a handle over her necromancer abilities?

The wrath of the Lich Tsar, Konstantin, has returned in the body of Katerina's "beloved prince", Prince Danilo. Also arriving back into town is Grand Duke, George. Unfortunately the disease comes with him, but that doesn't stop him from requesting for Katerina's hand in marriage. But accepting the Grand Duke's offer does come with a price. If she is to be wed to him she must give up her medical degree for good. Even her love for the Grand Duke cannot stop her from her medical degree, so instead they go to Paris and try to wed in secret, but Konstantin has beat them there. Capturing the Princess and taking her with him all the way to Cairo, Egypt they try to find the ancient sword, the Morning Star. Unfortunately for Katerina, to get what they want she must travel into the Graylands, the land of the dead in order to get the morning star. They are not alone in this quest; they must find the ancient sword before the Black Lily's do. The Morning Star lies beyond the seven gates to heaven, which only the most experienced mages may venture. They seek the help of a god, but a god is not what they truly summon. Instead Katerina releases, upon Mala's death, Princess Cantacuzene who will kill anyone to get the sword she had once held in battle herself. It's up to Katerina to save her beloved world before The Lich Tsar destroys it.

This series is best for kids 10+. I only say this because it does get a bit gory in the end, and having a 9-year-old sister that gets scared at the sight of blood proves my point. If you like the more ancient time stories then you will love The Morning Star which is filled with vampires, necromancers, mages, princesses, princes, and Lick Tsars'. Also if you are a romance seeker then this book of a tragic difficult romance winding its way through the pages will keep you interested. The tension as George and Katerina's love suffers because of the disease he got is amazing. He wishes to marry Katerina to help his pain, but she refuses, saying she will not marry him until she finds a cure for him. Overall, The Morning Star is a fantastic book. If you don't believe me go read it for yourself. Just remember, the Konstantin waits for no one.

Review written by Emily (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of The Morning Star for this review.

Have you read The Morning Star? How would you rate it?

Review: Deadly Animals: Ultimate Top Ten Meet the World's Most Dangerous Creatures by Ticktock

Deadly Animals: Ultimate Top Ten Meet the World's Most Dangerous Creatures by Ticktock.

Octopus Publishing Group
Publication Date: July 2013
List Price: $14.99
ISBN-13: 9781848987456

Review: Have you ever gone up to world's most deadly animals just to look at them? You can now because they are in a book! The book Deadly Animals Ultimate Top Tens by Tick Tock explains where they live and how deadly they are.

In Deadly Animals readers will learn that scary animals can live in land, air and water. Surprisingly, even dinosaurs make the top ten list! This book is very educational. Within the book, they list animals that are deadly, but not deadly enough like they explain how they rank the animals based on shape, fierceness of attack, how lethal they are, and what they eat. For example the Poison Dart Frog, he earns 7/10 for lethal power. This book is so interesting, it has every single little detail that you would need for a paper on a very deadly animal. This book isn't just good for education; it's also good for reading for fun. This would be great for an audience 11 to 15 years of age. Deadly Animals Top Tens would be amazing to have on your own bookshelf.

Review written by Tommy (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Ticktock for providing a copy of Deadly Animals: Ultimate Top Ten Meet the World's Most Dangerous Creatures for this review.

Have you read Deadly Animals: Ultimate Top Ten Meet the World's Most Dangerous Creatures? How would you rate it?

Review: Stronger Than Steel: Spider Silk DNA and the Quest for Better Bulletproof Vest, Sutures, and Parachute Rope by Bridget Heos

Stronger Than Steel: Spider Silk DNA and the Quest for Better Bulletproof Vest, Sutures, and Parachute Rope by Bridget Heos. A Scientists in the Field Book.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Publication Date: February 2013
List Price: $18.99
ISBN-13: 9780547681269

Review: I'm sure you remember the movie Spiderman. If you have watched this movie, you have to remember his spider webs and how strong they were! Well, how realistic is Spiderman? Can a web really be that strong? If you want to know the answers, then you should read Stronger Than Steel written by Bridget Heos. This book will explain about spider webs; how they are made, what they really are, and what other animal can make them.

The whole book begins with one spider called the golden orb weaver spider. Readers learn how the male spider is much smaller than the female spider and that the female is the only one who spins silk. Throughout the rest of the book, readers will learn everything you ever wanted to know about spiders and their silk.

Overall Stronger than Steel is not as interesting as I had expected. I prefer action, which is not typically found in nonfiction books. However, as a nonfiction book, this is exciting and filled with a lot of valuable information. It is a good book for schools to have on hand for fun reading, but also to be used as a research tool.

Review written by Gavin (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for providing a copy of Stronger Than Steel: Spider Silk DNA and the Quest for Better Bulletproof Vest, Sutures, and Parachute Rope for this review.

Have you read Stronger Than Steel: Spider Silk DNA and the Quest for Better Bulletproof Vest, Sutures, and Parachute Rope? How would you rate it?

Review: The Little Woman Wanted Noise by Val Teal

The Little Woman Wanted Noise by Val Teal.

New York Review Children's Collection
Publication Date: October 2013
List Price: $4.95
ISBN-13: 9781590177112

Review: Honk, Honk! The Little Woman Wanted Noise by Val Teal and illustrated by Robert Lawson is about a little, exhilarating, old woman who moves to a farm and creates the noises she misses from the city.

The Little Woman Wanted Noise is a charming book. The beginning is very descriptive and focuses on a happy, old woman who lives in the city where there is a lot of noise all around her. She doesn't mind, in fact she loves the noise. When her cousin calls saying he is moving away, he tells he that she could have the farm. This sounds like a great idea until she finds that she misses the city noises. So, the creative old woman recreates the city noises with animals on the farm; but something is still missing.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The Little Woman Wanted Noise is an exceptional book for little kids. I'm certain that if I read it to little kids on my street, they would love it. Val Teal certainly writes very good children's books as can be seen in The Little Woman Wanted Noise. The intended audience is young children such as preschool. But even older kids, like me, will like the story as well. Robert Lawson contributes greatly as well, because his illustrations help bring the story to life. Overall, Val Teal's imagination in The Little Woman Wanted Noise goes wild, and I love that. Hopefully Val Teal will keep making books that kids love and will always love and keep making kids smile.

Review written by Christian (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Media Masters Publicity for providing a copy of The Little Woman Wanted Noise for this review.

Have you read The Little Woman Wanted Noise? How would you rate it?

Review: Tides by Betsy Cornwell

Tides by Betsy Cornwell.

Clarion Books
Publication Date: June 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780547927725

Review: Love and truth, Selkies and humans. The Isles of Shoals is where this whole beautiful secret started. Noah Gallagher and his sister, Lo, go to an island cottage where their grandmother lives. She tells them fascinating stories about picturesque Selkies and appalling humans. One day, Noah's out running and he ends up trying to save a mysterious girl's life. Who is this girl and why is she so different? Betsy Cornwell has written this underwater story Tides.

Noah and his sister, Lo, are visiting their grandmother for the summer. Noah and Lo left the mainland to get away from their parents and their problems. Noah finally gets a job at an aquatic center on the island before he goes off to college in the fall. Noah enjoys running, so he does it every night after work. One afternoon, while Noah is out running he hears a person drowning, or so he thinks. He goes to where he hears the splashing and finds out it is a girl coming up the shore. She is different from other people and when she speaks to him her voice is firm but beautiful. It is the smoothest sound Noah has ever heard in his life. He learns more about this girl and something outrageous and horrible happens. But what possible thing could destroy this perfection?

Tides in one of the most creative stories I've ever read! The setting of deep blue water and still quiet islands makes this story very descriptive and it makes you feel at home. I am only a little like one character. Lo, Noah's sister likes art and drawing. I myself love to draw and be creative. Even though I don't have a connection, the characters are very interesting, especially the Selkies. They have the ability to change from a seal into a human and vice versa. Betsy Cornwell's writing style definitely makes the story move. The way she described the setting and the emotions of the characters in the book was amazing and her writing not only makes a picture in your head, but you can feel it too. When Noah and Lo's grandmother says, ÒNo one is happy in the inbetween.Ó Readers question what the inbetween is and who really isn't happy there? Read this dramatic story and find out! Tides is for girls between grades 6-8 and although it begins very relaxed, it becomes more unperceptive and tender. Tides is written in third person point of view which makes the reader more connected with the characters. This story taught me that love will find a way and to always follow my heart.

Review written by Ada (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Houghton Mifflin for providing a copy of Tides for this review.

Have you read Tides? How would you rate it?

Review: Frog Trouble by Sandra Boynton

Frog Trouble by Sandra Boynton.

Workman Publishing Company
Publication Date: September 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780761171768

Review: Sing along as you listen to the many songs in Frog Trouble. Sandra Boynton is the songwriter, but professional artists actually sing the songs. Frog Trouble is just one of the many great songs in this book.

Eleven songs comprise the book Frog Trouble. Each song is set to country music and is a long enough length to keep the audience entertained. There is also a little section in his book that has good country names for your pets. Finally this book is divided into three parts lyrics, music, and performers.

Any younger kids could enjoy Frog Trouble. It is a fun book because the readers can read along either in story format or with the actually music. Having the actual music is also fun for the young budding pianist. Also the language and the format of the book will be entertaining with the slang or country words. This would be a great book for the intended age group.

Review written by Sean (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Workman Publishing for providing a copy of Frog Trouble for this review.

Have you read Frog Trouble? How would you rate it?

Review: The Big Book of Dinosaurs by Ticktock

The Big Book of Dinosaurs by Ticktock.

Octopus Publishing Group
Publication Date: July 2013
List Price: $12.99
ISBN-13: 9781848987463

Review: What is the biggest dinosaur egg ever found? Can dinosaurs fly? Do dinosaurs hunt by smell? How long does the excavation of a dinosaur take? The answers to all the questions and more are discovered in the pages of The Big Book Of Dinosaurs by Dougal Dioxn. Learn almost everything about dinosaurs from the Tyrannosaurus Rex to the Micropachycephalosaurus, such as the Tyrannosaurus Rex having poison saliva and how the Micropachycephalosaurus got its name.

The Big Book Of Dinosaurs is an incredible non-fiction book. I don't love non-fiction, but this book is the exception. It contained hundreds of interesting facts I didn't know. However, one improvement for The Big Book Of Dinosaurs is pronunciations, as most of the words are very confusing. For example, the Micropachycephalosaurus is almost impossible to pronounce. Besides that, The Big Book Of Dinosaurs is a brilliant book with thousands of amazing facts that anyone would be surprised to hear. This book is a much more interesting and exciting way to learn than a huge boring textbook, which goes on and on with unimportant and dull facts.

Review written by Josh (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Ticktock for providing a copy of The Big Book of Dinosaurs for this review.

Have you read The Big Book of Dinosaurs? How would you rate it?

Review: Fast and Furious: On Land, In the Air, On the Water by Ticktock

Fast and Furious: On Land, In the Air, On the Water by Margaret Parrish.

Octopus Publishing Group
Publication Date: June 2013
List Price: $9.99
ISBN-13: 9781848987333

Review: Vroom Vroom, Whoosh Whoosh, Pshh Pshh is what I hear and see when I read Fast and Furious by Tick Tock Publishers, a descriptive and informative book where readers learn about radical planes, rapid cars or motorcycles, and rocket-fast boats.

The book includes exciting facts about major mods of transportation. In example the F-117A Nighthawk or the bandit, a plane that is made to jam enemy radar signals and for a fact its engine would let it go to a speed of Mach 1! Also from the many cars comes the powerful Bugatti Veyron 16.4, a car that could actually fly if it weren't for clever aerodynamics. It may seem dangerous since it can go faster than 250 mph but thanks to safety technology you are secure. Or maybe you might like boats more like the gigantic Nimitz-Class Aircraft Carrier which is one the biggest warship ever built and can hold up about a small town and this still doesn't even include pilots or soldiers, also this ship doesn't need to be refueled for 20 years and can be used for 50 years. These are just some of the amazing facts it gives about these vehicles. Fast and Furious won't make you be bored after ten minutes since it's short like any other vehicle book because of its variety that includes these, and other planes, automobiles, or boats.

Fast and Furious is great for early elementary students because of its action-packed vehicles. It's exactly what a little boy would adore. Also all the information which it gives, for example on all the pages it includes all its statistics and facts, it also includes eye-popping pictures, which grasp what it is trying to say, also the book includes many descriptive and helpful words {i.e. example the plane goes faster than the speed of sound or the ship can hold up to a town and more!} that lets you see the picture clearly and understand which helps kids bring their imagination and reading skills to full extent, and it captures attention without the obvious and typical unnecessary violence. On the other hand though the vocabulary is to challenging for the intended reader, for instance Mach 1 or stats, and there weren't more illustrations of soaring planes going into action in an emergency or a rescue boat out at sea which would also add to the excitement. However, overall this is a successfully written book for the young readers.

Review written by Tej (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Ticktock for providing a copy of Fast and Furious: On Land, In the Air, On the Water for this review.

Have you read Fast and Furious: On Land, In the Air, On the Water? How would you rate it?

Review: The One and Only Willa Bean by Cecilia Galante

The One and Only Willa Bean by Cecilia Galante. A Little Wings Book.

Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: December 2012
List Price: $4.99
ISBN-13: 9780375869501

Review: Picture this, a girl with crazy hair, her best friend Harper, and has a pet owl- all in a realistic fiction book. Does that sound like a book you would want to read? Keep reading to get a better vision of her. The One and Only Willa Bean, the 4th book of the Little Wings series written by Cecilia Galante and illustrated by Kristi Valiant is a book young children would enjoy as they follow the fun events in Willa Bean's life.

One of Willa Bean's favorite phrases to say is, "Nope, nope, nope-ity, nope," she says that instead of just saying no which helps her show her fun character. She is a cupid; all cupids get a flying friend who comes from Earth. Willa Bean has a pet owl named Snooze. Snooze is a pygmy owl that came from France so he speaks some French along with good English. Willa Bean finds out that there is a new girl, Lucy, in her class. She brings her flying friend to school and it turns out that Lucy has a long-eared owl. Willa Bean thinks 'onlies' are the best and she doesn't like it when there is another owl in the classroom. Willa Bean tries to focus on Nobel Nimbus Day but she can't so she just focus on the present and is excited for Nobel Nimbus Day but something happens that changes everything and that is what you will find out if you read the book.

In The One and Only Willa Bean, each chapter ends in the perfect spot to make the readers come back and finish the book. It is also stunning how she made things in the book seem bigger or smaller. For example, Willa Bean's owl is smaller than Raymond's lighting bug when in real life that isn't true. It makes the text better and creates more problems that make Willa Bean's character becomes stronger at over coming obstacles that get in her way. The One and Only Willa Bean is enjoyable for any age, early chapter readers, particularly girls will like this book because the characters are all cupids. Boys you may not be as interested, with the main character girl cupid. Lastly all of the characters are well developed and has a strong plot. Overall this book is very well written and good for younger readers who love realistic fiction.

Review written by Sydney (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of The One and Only Willa Bean for this review.

Have you read The One and Only Willa Bean? How would you rate it?

Review: Eruption! Volcanoes and the Science of Saving Lives by Elizabeth Rusch

Eruption! Volcanoes and the Science of Saving Lives by Elizabeth Rusch. A Scientists in the Field Book.

Houghton Mifflin Books for Children
Publication Date: June 2013
List Price: $18.99
ISBN-13: 9780547503509

Review: It begins when a deadly sleeping volcano finally awakes, causing fatalities of over 20,000 victims. Scientists around the globe know something could have been done to warn people. Something has to be done. Elizabeth Rusch provides descriptive wording and text in Eruption! Volcanoes and the Science of Saving Lives - an informative book in which two daring scientists develop an organization designed to evacuate a town when eruptions are imminent. Tom Uhlman brings the book to life with his intriguing photos.

Sleeping giants and lofty volcanoes are dotted all over the world, capable of wiping out businesses and entire towns and villages. VDAP, a small group of scientists, work 24/7 to protect lives and people from the colossal volcanoes on islands, continents, and other large bodies of land. They must be decisive. A mistake can mean death. Andy, a curious and brave volcanologist, must work with the other scientists to study volcanoes, and save lives if an eruption happens. To do this, they must be risky. They risk placing seismographs on the volcano. Evacuation holds it's own risk; the stress on the people may be too much. With all the danger and fear, entire cities are in their hands, now, and it will be their responsibility save them before the volcanoes destroy them.

Although this sounds like a fascinating book, some readers may not be enticed by Eruption!. It's disappointing how the author tries to make a story merge with the nonfiction information. It could have been engaging, but it detracts from the nonfiction. For some readers, however, the story might make the book more engaging. Something that is appealing is how Tom Uhlman's pictures bring the book to life. Andy and John are brave for studying the volcanoes, and their work can certainly be respected. The best audience for this book would range from 9 through 15. Overall, Eruption! is good for people who don't expect much action, but this book won't captivate others who want a lot of information about volcanoes or for students needing some research.

Review written by Vincent (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Houghton Mifflin for providing a copy of Eruption! Volcanoes and the Science of Saving Lives for this review.

Have you read Eruption! Volcanoes and the Science of Saving Lives? How would you rate it?

Review: Burton's Friendship Garden by V. A. Boeholt and Nathaniel Jensen

Burton's Friendship Garden by V. A. Boeholt and Nathaniel Jensen. A Burton the Scarecrow - Friendship Tales from the Farm Book.

Little Five Star
Publication Date: April 2013
List Price: $11.95
ISBN-13: 9781589852105

Review: Have you ever needed a little help from a friend? If you have, you will be able to relate to Farmer Green in Burton's Friendship Garden, a remarkable book written by V.A. Boeholt and illustrated by Nathaniel P. Jensen. Two scarecrows, a farmer and some animals are the main characters in Burton's Friendship Garden, the second book in the Friendship Tales from the Farm series.

One day Famer Green is getting prepared to plant his crops, but he decides to plant the seeds the following day and tells Burton the scarecrow as they say goodbye to each other .The next day Burton waits all day for Farmer Green, but he never come. The following day Burton sees a crow who says that he saw Farmer Green in bed with both of his legs wrapped in white stuff. Burton knows he must have gotten hurt. The scarecrows and the animals talk together to come up with a plan for helping Farmer Green. Will he ever be able to plant his seeds and be ready for the harvest?

Someone should read Burton's Friendship Garden to young children because it will help them learn to work together. Burton's Friendship Garden is appropriate for both boys and girls who are ready for slightly more advanced reading. The book is a bit long which might allow children to lose focus. It is nice that there is a glossary in the back of the book so younger readers can learn about the more difficult words. The talking animals are adorable, and the valuable lessons about teamwork, keeping your word, and friendship make this a perfect book for younger children.

Review written by Danessa (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Five Star Publishing for providing a copy of Burton's Friendship Garden for this review.

Have you read Burton's Friendship Garden? How would you rate it?

Review: Stronger Than Steel: Spider Silk DNA and the Quest for Better Bulletproof Vest, Sutures, and Parachute Rope by Bridget Heos

Stronger Than Steel: Spider Silk DNA and the Quest for Better Bulletproof Vest, Sutures, and Parachute Rope by Bridget Heos. A Scientists in the Field Book.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Publication Date: February 2013
List Price: $18.99
ISBN-13: 9780547681269

Review: Have you ever wondered about the value of spider webs and silk? Bridget Heos, the author of Stronger Than Steel, has written a non-fiction book to inform the readers about how silk is made. She also provides information on the various uses of silk webs and what creates them. Stronger Than Steel is part of series called Scientists in the Field.

Stronger Than Steel explains how silk can be found in nature. Dr. Randy Lewis and other scientists at the University of Wyoming try to study the golden orb weaver. A golden orb weaver is a spider that has strong silk. This spider produces silk webs that can be used to make bulletproof vests and parachute ropes. It can also be used to suture the brain, eyeball, spinal cord, and other body parts. The problem with getting silk from these spiders is that finding the webs in the wild is time consuming. It takes a lot of spider webs to get enough spider webs so scientists are injecting spider silk genes into goats. Does that sound crazy? It's hard to believe how many ways they are trying to produce silk. Lastly, experiments are being done with alfalfa to carry the spider silk genes. Will they find strong enough silk to hold a spider man action figure or better yet a human?

Stronger Than Steel taught me about the value of spider webs and how they be used. A girl may not like this book because of all the creepy crawlies that they talk about in the book. Although this would be a perfect book for boys that like spiders, silk worm and even goats Stronger Than Steel could be enjoyable for little kids because there are a lot of pictures that will entice younger children. This book is perfect for research papers, book reports, and simply for amusement because it has all that informational text about getting silk along with a story about how the scientist families help out in the research labs. If you are a lover of fictional stories, this book may not be for you, but it's certainly worth giving it a try. You might even find you like nonfiction better than you thought. Stronger Than Steel is a fantastic book; it has creepy crawlies and provides information in a great format. I recommend Stronger Than Steel to strong readers 11 and up.

Review written by Matthew (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for providing a copy of Stronger Than Steel: Spider Silk DNA and the Quest for Better Bulletproof Vest, Sutures, and Parachute Rope for this review.

Have you read Stronger Than Steel: Spider Silk DNA and the Quest for Better Bulletproof Vest, Sutures, and Parachute Rope? How would you rate it?