April 2015 "Book of the Month"
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THE MARTIAN by Andy Weir
This book may not suitable for younger children
(*10)
Whoa. A science fiction masterpiece, and may I say, it's much, much, better than the awesome movie. In this future of 2035 where NASA actually has sufficient funding, something terrible goes wrong and Mark Watney, the botanist on the research team, is stranded on the Red Planet with no hope in sight. However, Watney uses pure ingenuity, science skills, and some practical engineering to rig a survival system on his new 'colony'. It's really incredible how unlucky the protagonist is, and you'll soon find yourself groaning in anxiety whenever a new challenge comes up that seems impossible to face. A little too much cursing, but sometimes it really does work with the whole story. Very fast-paced, nerdy, and exciting, and a fantastic read for anyone who's looking for their next book.
This book may not suitable for younger children
(*10)
Whoa. A science fiction masterpiece, and may I say, it's much, much, better than the awesome movie. In this future of 2035 where NASA actually has sufficient funding, something terrible goes wrong and Mark Watney, the botanist on the research team, is stranded on the Red Planet with no hope in sight. However, Watney uses pure ingenuity, science skills, and some practical engineering to rig a survival system on his new 'colony'. It's really incredible how unlucky the protagonist is, and you'll soon find yourself groaning in anxiety whenever a new challenge comes up that seems impossible to face. A little too much cursing, but sometimes it really does work with the whole story. Very fast-paced, nerdy, and exciting, and a fantastic read for anyone who's looking for their next book.
March 2015 "Book of the Month"
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WHAT IF? by Randall Munroe
(*10)
I'm a geek, obviously. I run a book review site. So I think I can safely claim that this should be the geek bible. In this hilarious, innovative novel answering hypothetical questions with physics and math, Randall Munroe (aided by some humorous illustrations) thoroughly and scientifically explains how to survive in a nuclear submarine in space, how the Netherlands could take over Mars, how the Richter scale really works, and how to set up plenty of don't-try-this-at-home explosions and whatnot. From its bizarre diatribes on why the Rankin temperature system is terrible to the clever cartoons which emphasize or provide an anecdote to the stories, this book is probably the best non-novel I have ever read. So if you have a craving for the unusual, a thirst for the unexplainable, or a desire for understanding, I urge you, buy this book.
(*10)
I'm a geek, obviously. I run a book review site. So I think I can safely claim that this should be the geek bible. In this hilarious, innovative novel answering hypothetical questions with physics and math, Randall Munroe (aided by some humorous illustrations) thoroughly and scientifically explains how to survive in a nuclear submarine in space, how the Netherlands could take over Mars, how the Richter scale really works, and how to set up plenty of don't-try-this-at-home explosions and whatnot. From its bizarre diatribes on why the Rankin temperature system is terrible to the clever cartoons which emphasize or provide an anecdote to the stories, this book is probably the best non-novel I have ever read. So if you have a craving for the unusual, a thirst for the unexplainable, or a desire for understanding, I urge you, buy this book.
February 2015 "Book of the Month"
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H2O by Virginia Bergin
(S*10)
Not a bad book if you're just looking for a quick story of adventure, terror, and killer rain. The protagonist, Ruby Morris, is almost infuriating in her need to appear fashionable even in the face of death, and her sidekick Darius Spratt is easy to sympathize with. That being said, this isn't remarkably well-written, but is a good novel for middle and high schoolers. The plot is easy enough to follow: killing rain comes down on a killing reign, huge percentages of people die, and Ruby decides it's a good time to go looking for her father, who lives quite a bit away. On her road trip, Ruby makes and loses friends, pets, and makeup supplies. The book is suspenseful, especially this one scene at a pool (but I'll let you read that for yourself), though it clearly sets itself up for a sequel, which is never the best way to end a book.
(S*10)
Not a bad book if you're just looking for a quick story of adventure, terror, and killer rain. The protagonist, Ruby Morris, is almost infuriating in her need to appear fashionable even in the face of death, and her sidekick Darius Spratt is easy to sympathize with. That being said, this isn't remarkably well-written, but is a good novel for middle and high schoolers. The plot is easy enough to follow: killing rain comes down on a killing reign, huge percentages of people die, and Ruby decides it's a good time to go looking for her father, who lives quite a bit away. On her road trip, Ruby makes and loses friends, pets, and makeup supplies. The book is suspenseful, especially this one scene at a pool (but I'll let you read that for yourself), though it clearly sets itself up for a sequel, which is never the best way to end a book.
January 2015 "Book of the Month"
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THE SHINING by Stephen King
This book may not be suitable for younger children
(S*10)
The third Stephen King book is a masterpiece of horror. In this tale of deception, murder, and a hotel that has a murky past, the author weaves a terrifying tale of Jack Torrance, a recovering alcoholic driven to insanity who attempts to murder his wife and child through the psychologically challenging events generated by the Overlook hotel, such as regenerating wasps, stalking hedge animals, a party that is always at midnight, a mafia killing, a lady in a bathtub, the mysterious phrase redrum and a curious ability of the possibly schizophrenic son to see the future; an ability he calls the shining. This book is definitely not for kids younger than fourteen or fifteen because of scary and mature content. Even so, I'd recommend only reading this book in the broadest of daylight. A fantastic tome of terror, ten stars.
This book may not be suitable for younger children
(S*10)
The third Stephen King book is a masterpiece of horror. In this tale of deception, murder, and a hotel that has a murky past, the author weaves a terrifying tale of Jack Torrance, a recovering alcoholic driven to insanity who attempts to murder his wife and child through the psychologically challenging events generated by the Overlook hotel, such as regenerating wasps, stalking hedge animals, a party that is always at midnight, a mafia killing, a lady in a bathtub, the mysterious phrase redrum and a curious ability of the possibly schizophrenic son to see the future; an ability he calls the shining. This book is definitely not for kids younger than fourteen or fifteen because of scary and mature content. Even so, I'd recommend only reading this book in the broadest of daylight. A fantastic tome of terror, ten stars.
December 2014 "Book of the Month"
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TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD by Harper Lee PULITZER PRIZE
(S*10)
A time-honored classic that has been commended on multiple occasions, TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD is probably the best children's book from the 1960s. Told from the childlike perspective of Scout Finch, it details life in pre-World War II Alabama, where she witnesses debacles such as fire, racism, death, and illness, as well as experiencing the pleasures of family, snow, school plays, and more. This entire tale is very exciting and hard to put down once you get into it. Harper Lee is a fantastic author who managed to turn a simple love story into a fascinating, controversial piece of literature about the existence of racism. This book will immerse you in the lives of everyone in Maycomb County, and it is one of the most fascinating, interesting novels I personally have ever read. Some material may be slightly inappropriate for children eight and below, but once you are past that age, this book is strongly recommended. 10 stars.
(S*10)
A time-honored classic that has been commended on multiple occasions, TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD is probably the best children's book from the 1960s. Told from the childlike perspective of Scout Finch, it details life in pre-World War II Alabama, where she witnesses debacles such as fire, racism, death, and illness, as well as experiencing the pleasures of family, snow, school plays, and more. This entire tale is very exciting and hard to put down once you get into it. Harper Lee is a fantastic author who managed to turn a simple love story into a fascinating, controversial piece of literature about the existence of racism. This book will immerse you in the lives of everyone in Maycomb County, and it is one of the most fascinating, interesting novels I personally have ever read. Some material may be slightly inappropriate for children eight and below, but once you are past that age, this book is strongly recommended. 10 stars.
November 2014 "Book of the Month"
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THE BLOOD OF OLYMPUS by Rick Riordan
(S*10)
This thrilling finale to the HEROES OF OLYMPUS pentalogy has you glued to its words until the end (which is sort of unplausible, but still absorbs you nonetheless). Split into two parts, THE BLOOD OF OLYMPUS describes two perilous journeys: one of Reyna, Nico, and Coach Hedge as they attempt to transport the Athena Parthenos to Camp Half-Blood to make peace between the warring demigods, and the other of Leo, Jason, Piper, Percy, Frank, Hazel, and Annabeth traveling around the Peloponnese (the large peninsula in Greece) to eventually attack the giants at the Parthenon. In this awesome story, both groups encounter monsters, curses, and terrible memories as they fight to restore peace to the world and stop Gaea from rising. A fantastic tale which may not be the 11 star book than its fans looked forward to, but still is deserving of extensive accolades, this is one book you must read. As one amazon.com reviewer said, this novel "is far better than 99.9% of the [young adult] books out there."
(S*10)
This thrilling finale to the HEROES OF OLYMPUS pentalogy has you glued to its words until the end (which is sort of unplausible, but still absorbs you nonetheless). Split into two parts, THE BLOOD OF OLYMPUS describes two perilous journeys: one of Reyna, Nico, and Coach Hedge as they attempt to transport the Athena Parthenos to Camp Half-Blood to make peace between the warring demigods, and the other of Leo, Jason, Piper, Percy, Frank, Hazel, and Annabeth traveling around the Peloponnese (the large peninsula in Greece) to eventually attack the giants at the Parthenon. In this awesome story, both groups encounter monsters, curses, and terrible memories as they fight to restore peace to the world and stop Gaea from rising. A fantastic tale which may not be the 11 star book than its fans looked forward to, but still is deserving of extensive accolades, this is one book you must read. As one amazon.com reviewer said, this novel "is far better than 99.9% of the [young adult] books out there."
October 2014 "Book of the Month"
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SPACE CASE by Stuart Gibbs
(S*10)
The fact that Stuart Gibbs has three books on our B.O.M. page either means that he's a really good author, or I simply am really biased, but I sure hope that it's the former, because this start to a third series proves to be the most promising so far, with a fantastic plot, a very unusual ending, unique characters, timely humor, and nonstop edge-of-your-seat action. Anyway, this story starts off by introducing a kid called Dashiell Gibson, the narrator who lives on a moon colony but hates life there (mainly from the toilet and the food situations). While trying to execrate his space food chicken parmigiana (and he explains what's going on a little more than you want to know), he overhears one of the base's best scientist talking on his phone about a big surprise to be revealed the next day. Dashiell looks forward to hearing the news, but doesn't have time: the scientist turns up dead the next morning, sparking yet another one of Stuart Gibbs' perpetually unsolvable and entangled mysteries that really entertains the reader, despite age or preference. A ten star book, all the way.
(S*10)
The fact that Stuart Gibbs has three books on our B.O.M. page either means that he's a really good author, or I simply am really biased, but I sure hope that it's the former, because this start to a third series proves to be the most promising so far, with a fantastic plot, a very unusual ending, unique characters, timely humor, and nonstop edge-of-your-seat action. Anyway, this story starts off by introducing a kid called Dashiell Gibson, the narrator who lives on a moon colony but hates life there (mainly from the toilet and the food situations). While trying to execrate his space food chicken parmigiana (and he explains what's going on a little more than you want to know), he overhears one of the base's best scientist talking on his phone about a big surprise to be revealed the next day. Dashiell looks forward to hearing the news, but doesn't have time: the scientist turns up dead the next morning, sparking yet another one of Stuart Gibbs' perpetually unsolvable and entangled mysteries that really entertains the reader, despite age or preference. A ten star book, all the way.
September 2014 "Book of the Month"
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THE MAZE RUNNER by James Dashner
(S*10)
THE MAZE RUNNER is a fantastic book which has you on the edge of your seat at all times, The beginning may be a little confusing, but once you continue on to the second chapter, things start to clear up. The rising action of this story begins right away when a kid called Thomas finds himself in an elevator, with no memories except his own name. When the elevator (called the "Box" reaches its top, Thomas finds that he has arrived in a dystopian society of some sort; a place with moving walls, strange mutated creatures called Grievers, a safe haven called the Glade, and a bunch of interesting inhabitants called the Gladers. However, things soon begin to change even by the Gladers' standards, when a girl is sent up in the Box, the walls stop moving, and a dead Griever is discovered. This novel has received many rave reviews, and I can confirm that it deserves them. THE MAZE RUNNER should be read by any fan of dystopian or science fiction, and will be enjoyed by all.
(S*10)
THE MAZE RUNNER is a fantastic book which has you on the edge of your seat at all times, The beginning may be a little confusing, but once you continue on to the second chapter, things start to clear up. The rising action of this story begins right away when a kid called Thomas finds himself in an elevator, with no memories except his own name. When the elevator (called the "Box" reaches its top, Thomas finds that he has arrived in a dystopian society of some sort; a place with moving walls, strange mutated creatures called Grievers, a safe haven called the Glade, and a bunch of interesting inhabitants called the Gladers. However, things soon begin to change even by the Gladers' standards, when a girl is sent up in the Box, the walls stop moving, and a dead Griever is discovered. This novel has received many rave reviews, and I can confirm that it deserves them. THE MAZE RUNNER should be read by any fan of dystopian or science fiction, and will be enjoyed by all.
August 2014 "Book of the Month"
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THE GRAVEYARD BOOK by Neil Gaiman NEWBERY MEDAL
(*10)
Nobody Owens has an interesting life, to say the least. Nicknamed "Bod", his parents and older sister were brutally murdered while Bod still sucked on a pacifier. Somehow, he escaped and was taken in by a group of friendly ghosts, who granted him Freedom of the Graveyard, which certifies that Nobody can Fade and Glide like any ghost, while being safe from the man who has hunted him all of his life, mysteriously trying to kill him. However, like any other boy, Bod is adventurous, finding himself wandering into the human world, and eventually being led right into the jaws of his parents' murderer, but also avenging his parent's deaths by overcoming that killer. THE GRAVEYARD BOOK is one of the most charming, intriguing, and interesting stories that I have ever read. Recommended for children up to age 18, but that's no limit. Try this book (undoubtedly the best children's book by Neil Gaiman and well deserving of the accolades bestowed upon it) for yourself - it's fantastic and interesting, a true ten star book.
(*10)
Nobody Owens has an interesting life, to say the least. Nicknamed "Bod", his parents and older sister were brutally murdered while Bod still sucked on a pacifier. Somehow, he escaped and was taken in by a group of friendly ghosts, who granted him Freedom of the Graveyard, which certifies that Nobody can Fade and Glide like any ghost, while being safe from the man who has hunted him all of his life, mysteriously trying to kill him. However, like any other boy, Bod is adventurous, finding himself wandering into the human world, and eventually being led right into the jaws of his parents' murderer, but also avenging his parent's deaths by overcoming that killer. THE GRAVEYARD BOOK is one of the most charming, intriguing, and interesting stories that I have ever read. Recommended for children up to age 18, but that's no limit. Try this book (undoubtedly the best children's book by Neil Gaiman and well deserving of the accolades bestowed upon it) for yourself - it's fantastic and interesting, a true ten star book.
July 2014 "Book of the Month"
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WONDER by R.J. Palacio
(*10)
WONDER really makes you wonder. This book stars August "Auggie" Pullman, a kid with a defective fifth chromosome and a facial deformity who drools all the time and regularly sees children running away from him and screaming. For the first decade of his life, Auggie has pulled through just fine, overcoming all of his surgeries with an intense love of the Star Wars movies. When he gets an opportunity to go to school for the first time ever, he takes it, only to be bullied terrible and talked about a lot behind his back. This story is told from six different perspectives in a tone of voice very much like actual children of that age were writing it, though maybe a little more eloquent. This novel is extremely gripping, very exciting, and extremely inspirational, as (spoiler alert) Auggie overcomes all of his challenges and earns an award for getting through what must have been a terrible school year. R.J. Palacio has, through words, given us a very meaningful must-read that anyone over nine years old should check out - a perfect book for anyone at all, really. 10 stars.
(*10)
WONDER really makes you wonder. This book stars August "Auggie" Pullman, a kid with a defective fifth chromosome and a facial deformity who drools all the time and regularly sees children running away from him and screaming. For the first decade of his life, Auggie has pulled through just fine, overcoming all of his surgeries with an intense love of the Star Wars movies. When he gets an opportunity to go to school for the first time ever, he takes it, only to be bullied terrible and talked about a lot behind his back. This story is told from six different perspectives in a tone of voice very much like actual children of that age were writing it, though maybe a little more eloquent. This novel is extremely gripping, very exciting, and extremely inspirational, as (spoiler alert) Auggie overcomes all of his challenges and earns an award for getting through what must have been a terrible school year. R.J. Palacio has, through words, given us a very meaningful must-read that anyone over nine years old should check out - a perfect book for anyone at all, really. 10 stars.
June 2014 "Book of the Month"
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AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES by John Green PRINTZ HONOREE
This book may not be suitable for younger children
(*10)
AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES is one of the best books for young adults in the market today. In this excellent novel, the story focuses on high school graduate Colin Singleton, who is a failure, a one-time child prodigy who knows he'll never become a genius, and is unique because he got dumped 19 times by girls named Katherine (or at least he thinks so), and is very good at anagramming and thinking up witty and intelligent thoughts. With his buddy Hassan, who repeatedly claims that he is not a terrorist, Colin embarks on a road trip. A stop to see the cause of World War One then severely changes his life, and provides a very interesting story as he struggles to overcome his despair and formulate an equation to predict the course of all relationships. I found myself unable to put this book down once I started it, leading to me having my nose in it for the entire 272 pages' length. This book is a little inappropriate, so it's not recommended for kids under twelve, but really ANY intellectual who adores reading above that age should peruse this book.
This book may not be suitable for younger children
(*10)
AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES is one of the best books for young adults in the market today. In this excellent novel, the story focuses on high school graduate Colin Singleton, who is a failure, a one-time child prodigy who knows he'll never become a genius, and is unique because he got dumped 19 times by girls named Katherine (or at least he thinks so), and is very good at anagramming and thinking up witty and intelligent thoughts. With his buddy Hassan, who repeatedly claims that he is not a terrorist, Colin embarks on a road trip. A stop to see the cause of World War One then severely changes his life, and provides a very interesting story as he struggles to overcome his despair and formulate an equation to predict the course of all relationships. I found myself unable to put this book down once I started it, leading to me having my nose in it for the entire 272 pages' length. This book is a little inappropriate, so it's not recommended for kids under twelve, but really ANY intellectual who adores reading above that age should peruse this book.
May 2014 "Book of the Month"
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CHOMP by Carl Hiaasen
(*10)
This novel will have you hooked from the first chapter straight to the epilogue, with this dramatic and very interesting story. In this publication for kids aged 8 to 20, the book is narrated in the third person and follows Wahoo, a kid with an unusual life. With a mom in China, a concussed dad, a missing tongue, and a bad name, Wahoo took it upon himself to earn money, in his father's profession: animal wrangling. On one of their jobs filming a survival show in the Everglades, they encounter extremely idiotic TV personas. dedicated air-boat owners, an abused young girl (also with a fishy name) and her enraged, drunken, and armed father. As any casual reader would note, this sounds like a good story. That's because it is a good story - there can be no doubt of that. Especially towards the end, this is one of those bestsellers which really has you on the edge of your seat, and you can find yourself rooting for different characters every chapter - you're not exactly sure who the good guys are until the end, though, boy oh boy, you can tell who the bad ones are.
(*10)
This novel will have you hooked from the first chapter straight to the epilogue, with this dramatic and very interesting story. In this publication for kids aged 8 to 20, the book is narrated in the third person and follows Wahoo, a kid with an unusual life. With a mom in China, a concussed dad, a missing tongue, and a bad name, Wahoo took it upon himself to earn money, in his father's profession: animal wrangling. On one of their jobs filming a survival show in the Everglades, they encounter extremely idiotic TV personas. dedicated air-boat owners, an abused young girl (also with a fishy name) and her enraged, drunken, and armed father. As any casual reader would note, this sounds like a good story. That's because it is a good story - there can be no doubt of that. Especially towards the end, this is one of those bestsellers which really has you on the edge of your seat, and you can find yourself rooting for different characters every chapter - you're not exactly sure who the good guys are until the end, though, boy oh boy, you can tell who the bad ones are.
April 2014 "Book of the Month"
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POACHED by Stuart Gibbs
(S*10)
Stuart Gibbs not only proves his intense love for animals in this book, but also that he is a good writer capable of producing a sequel as good as the first book. In POACHED, Teddy Fitzroy returns from BELLY UP, finally leading a more normal life. However, him getting bullied in school eventually gets him forced to put an arm in a shark tank at FunJungle, run from authorities, and hide in the new koala exhibit. The dominoes begin to fall when, shortly after, Teddy gets accused of stealing the koala. He becomes a criminal on the lam, and is coerced by Summer McCracken to find the real culprit in a vigilante-style search. POACHED is an excellent novel which flows at a perfect pace, has a very unexpected ending, and very interesting things in between, including the bombing of the shark tank. But what else do you expect from the only author to produce three love2read Books of the Month? You should check this book out if you're aged 9 to 19, but those are not boundaries, as this is a fantastic novel which should be read by all.
(S*10)
Stuart Gibbs not only proves his intense love for animals in this book, but also that he is a good writer capable of producing a sequel as good as the first book. In POACHED, Teddy Fitzroy returns from BELLY UP, finally leading a more normal life. However, him getting bullied in school eventually gets him forced to put an arm in a shark tank at FunJungle, run from authorities, and hide in the new koala exhibit. The dominoes begin to fall when, shortly after, Teddy gets accused of stealing the koala. He becomes a criminal on the lam, and is coerced by Summer McCracken to find the real culprit in a vigilante-style search. POACHED is an excellent novel which flows at a perfect pace, has a very unexpected ending, and very interesting things in between, including the bombing of the shark tank. But what else do you expect from the only author to produce three love2read Books of the Month? You should check this book out if you're aged 9 to 19, but those are not boundaries, as this is a fantastic novel which should be read by all.
March 2014 "Book of the Month"
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RULES by Cynthia Lord NEWBERY HONOR
(*10)
RULES is in a few ways similar to the 2013 Book of the Month recipient OUT OF MY MIND, except in this novel (which is also written in a brutally honest child's hand) the narrator Catherine is on the other side of the divide: a girl who is regular, but with a disabled brother. She sometimes feels embarrassed about he brother, causing her to write an ever impotent and ongoing list of rules. She tries to avoid taking that brother, David, to social gatherings, but still has to spend time with him, and enjoys it privately. Her life takes another turn when she gets a new neighbor and a sort-of-boyfriend with a case of cerebral palsy (see OUT OF MY MIND - just like Melody, he is very intelligent but has trouble communicating. RULES is well deserving of its Newbery Medal and Cynthia Lord should be commended for writing such a fantastic novel which greatly touches the reader. This also deserves a ten stars - it is a fantastic book that, despite it not being action-packed like many childrens' and teens' books today, takes your breath away,
(*10)
RULES is in a few ways similar to the 2013 Book of the Month recipient OUT OF MY MIND, except in this novel (which is also written in a brutally honest child's hand) the narrator Catherine is on the other side of the divide: a girl who is regular, but with a disabled brother. She sometimes feels embarrassed about he brother, causing her to write an ever impotent and ongoing list of rules. She tries to avoid taking that brother, David, to social gatherings, but still has to spend time with him, and enjoys it privately. Her life takes another turn when she gets a new neighbor and a sort-of-boyfriend with a case of cerebral palsy (see OUT OF MY MIND - just like Melody, he is very intelligent but has trouble communicating. RULES is well deserving of its Newbery Medal and Cynthia Lord should be commended for writing such a fantastic novel which greatly touches the reader. This also deserves a ten stars - it is a fantastic book that, despite it not being action-packed like many childrens' and teens' books today, takes your breath away,
February 2014 "Book of the Month"
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DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth
(S*10)
DIVERGENT is by far the best book in its series, telling the remarkable story of a girl in a dystopian society where she must choose her way of living from six predetermined choices: a life of honesty, a life of bravery, a life of kindness, a life of intelligence, a life of friendship, or to become faction less. Beatrice, who changes her name to Tris, decides to lead the life of bravery, so she joins a faction called Dauntless. There, she begins her training, which involves physical combat and a lot of simulations. However, Tris soon learns that both her faction and virtually her entire society is corrupt and is seeking out people like her that can resist certain simulations to kill. This book has a wide variety of unexpected plot twists, an awesome story line, a great writing style, and like any other book of its genre, brings out the what if... questions. Best for children aged eight and up, this book simply had to be Book of the Month because of how awesome it is and because of the fact that the movie comes out in March 2014, only half a month after this review is made. A very high 10 stars without any hesitation; this is an inspiring book for all.
(S*10)
DIVERGENT is by far the best book in its series, telling the remarkable story of a girl in a dystopian society where she must choose her way of living from six predetermined choices: a life of honesty, a life of bravery, a life of kindness, a life of intelligence, a life of friendship, or to become faction less. Beatrice, who changes her name to Tris, decides to lead the life of bravery, so she joins a faction called Dauntless. There, she begins her training, which involves physical combat and a lot of simulations. However, Tris soon learns that both her faction and virtually her entire society is corrupt and is seeking out people like her that can resist certain simulations to kill. This book has a wide variety of unexpected plot twists, an awesome story line, a great writing style, and like any other book of its genre, brings out the what if... questions. Best for children aged eight and up, this book simply had to be Book of the Month because of how awesome it is and because of the fact that the movie comes out in March 2014, only half a month after this review is made. A very high 10 stars without any hesitation; this is an inspiring book for all.
January 2014 "Book of the Month"
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BELLY UP by Stuart Gibbs
(S*10)
This book is surprisingly better than you would expect. In it, a boy named Teddy thought a dead hippo only two weeks adjacent to the grand opening of an awesome new zoo was just a little suspicious, so he went to investigate, He was soon joined by a millionaire teenager, and together they uncovered strangle tales of corruption and deceit. There are many untrustworthy subjects, such as emerald smugglers, crazed security guards, peeved public relations officers, and deranged clowns. Teddy must discover the culprit(s) fast, as they have begun attempting to murder humans now. And the end is even stranger than the plot in this superb and fantastic novel by Stuart Gibbs, Though it may be his first book, this screenplay writer turned author has amazed us with his fabulous story. And not just any old story, but the kind of story that once you are done with, you just have to flip back to the beginning and read it once more. Best for children 10 and up, BELLY UP is an awesome novel worthy of recognition. High 10 stars without a doubt.
(S*10)
This book is surprisingly better than you would expect. In it, a boy named Teddy thought a dead hippo only two weeks adjacent to the grand opening of an awesome new zoo was just a little suspicious, so he went to investigate, He was soon joined by a millionaire teenager, and together they uncovered strangle tales of corruption and deceit. There are many untrustworthy subjects, such as emerald smugglers, crazed security guards, peeved public relations officers, and deranged clowns. Teddy must discover the culprit(s) fast, as they have begun attempting to murder humans now. And the end is even stranger than the plot in this superb and fantastic novel by Stuart Gibbs, Though it may be his first book, this screenplay writer turned author has amazed us with his fabulous story. And not just any old story, but the kind of story that once you are done with, you just have to flip back to the beginning and read it once more. Best for children 10 and up, BELLY UP is an awesome novel worthy of recognition. High 10 stars without a doubt.
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December 2013 "Book of the Month"
![Picture](/uploads/1/5/8/8/15888322/9729637.jpg?192)
FRINDLE by Andrew Clements
(*10)
Andrew Clements has produced many motivational and interesting works such as THE SCHOOL STORY, LUNCH MONEY, and THE JACKET, but this is by far the best, even if it is chiefly meant for younger kids between the ages of 6 and 12. Written about a young boy called Nicholas, this story weaves the remarkable tale of a boy battling his extremely stern English teacher in order to create a new word as a replacement for "pen". It was at first meant to simply prove to the teacher that her somewhat cruel regime was written on a flexible basis and had more loopholes than she would think, but it later expanded to become a national phenomenon, leaving Nick very rich with a lot of licensed merchandise to hand out. Andrew Clements is prolific when it comes to adapting his style to the inner voice of children and knows what goes into a good story very well, not unlike other writers on this page. This book would not only be perfect for literature geeks and kids who like to read, but also kids who are reluctant at reading who just can't find the right book. Read this one!
(*10)
Andrew Clements has produced many motivational and interesting works such as THE SCHOOL STORY, LUNCH MONEY, and THE JACKET, but this is by far the best, even if it is chiefly meant for younger kids between the ages of 6 and 12. Written about a young boy called Nicholas, this story weaves the remarkable tale of a boy battling his extremely stern English teacher in order to create a new word as a replacement for "pen". It was at first meant to simply prove to the teacher that her somewhat cruel regime was written on a flexible basis and had more loopholes than she would think, but it later expanded to become a national phenomenon, leaving Nick very rich with a lot of licensed merchandise to hand out. Andrew Clements is prolific when it comes to adapting his style to the inner voice of children and knows what goes into a good story very well, not unlike other writers on this page. This book would not only be perfect for literature geeks and kids who like to read, but also kids who are reluctant at reading who just can't find the right book. Read this one!
November 2013 "Book of the Month"
![Picture](/uploads/1/5/8/8/15888322/7024727.jpg)
I AM NUMBER FOUR by Pittacus Lore
(S*10)
I AM NUMBER FOUR is one of the most delightful science fiction books ever published, the like of a book that is impossible to put down unless you have finished it. Being the first book of the Lorien Legacies saga, I finished this book in an hour and a half. This excellent novel provides an intricate plot integrated into the flawless mindset of the character Four, who poses as a boy called John Smith to blend in with the town he is in. However, Four is not a normal boy. He is an extraterrestrial from the planet of Lorien, seeking to evade the evil race of Mogadorians who follow him. The nine of his kind can only be killed in order of their numbers, and Four is next. However, that charm is broken, and the Mogadorians come in more force than ever. How will Four survive whilst protecting the ones he loves? To find out, read this book- for it is one of the most flawless, amazing and interesting novels I have ever read. I AM NUMBER FOUR is a wonderful tale of action, love, survival, and more. The exact kind of book that this site has dedicated itself to.
(S*10)
I AM NUMBER FOUR is one of the most delightful science fiction books ever published, the like of a book that is impossible to put down unless you have finished it. Being the first book of the Lorien Legacies saga, I finished this book in an hour and a half. This excellent novel provides an intricate plot integrated into the flawless mindset of the character Four, who poses as a boy called John Smith to blend in with the town he is in. However, Four is not a normal boy. He is an extraterrestrial from the planet of Lorien, seeking to evade the evil race of Mogadorians who follow him. The nine of his kind can only be killed in order of their numbers, and Four is next. However, that charm is broken, and the Mogadorians come in more force than ever. How will Four survive whilst protecting the ones he loves? To find out, read this book- for it is one of the most flawless, amazing and interesting novels I have ever read. I AM NUMBER FOUR is a wonderful tale of action, love, survival, and more. The exact kind of book that this site has dedicated itself to.
October 2013 "Book of the Month"
![Picture](/uploads/1/5/8/8/15888322/5520246.jpg?177)
THE HOUSE OF HADES by Rick Riordan
(S*10)
THE HOUSE OF HADES is the latest in Rick Riordan's HEROES OF OLYMPUS saga, and it, surely enough, lived up to all its expectations. While less humorous than the first three books and the other series by this author, THE HOUSE OF HADES still proves itself as a fantastic book that MUST be finished in one seating. In this novel, heroes Percy and Annabeth must fight their way through the Pit of Tartarus with the help of a friendly Titan and an unsure giant while their partners above ground battle bounty hunters and enchantresses. Both teams close the Doors of Death at the end, but to a cost. Even the title of the next book makes your blood curl. But I'll let you read it yourself... for any person of any age has to try this book if they already haven't. THE HOUSE OF HADES may very well be added as Book of the Year sometime.
(S*10)
THE HOUSE OF HADES is the latest in Rick Riordan's HEROES OF OLYMPUS saga, and it, surely enough, lived up to all its expectations. While less humorous than the first three books and the other series by this author, THE HOUSE OF HADES still proves itself as a fantastic book that MUST be finished in one seating. In this novel, heroes Percy and Annabeth must fight their way through the Pit of Tartarus with the help of a friendly Titan and an unsure giant while their partners above ground battle bounty hunters and enchantresses. Both teams close the Doors of Death at the end, but to a cost. Even the title of the next book makes your blood curl. But I'll let you read it yourself... for any person of any age has to try this book if they already haven't. THE HOUSE OF HADES may very well be added as Book of the Year sometime.
September 2013 "Book of the Month"
![Picture](/uploads/1/5/8/8/15888322/6430515.jpg?182)
OUT OF MY MIND by Sharon M. Draper
(*10)
OUT OF MY MIND is a book about a girl confined to a wheelchair, without any means of speaking, and barely any of moving. Melody has cerebral palsy and synthesesia, and everybody she knows thinks that she is mentally challenged, apart from her neighbor Violet, her parents, and her school aide Catherine. Being able to answer a question with any difficulty, but also being incapable to say the answer, or indeed anything else, drives Melody out of her mind. She finds a means to reflect on her life through her goldfish Ollie, but one day even he is taken from her. Later in her life, Melody obtains a Medi-talker and joins a quiz team, hoping to finally be good at something in life. However, she is ripped apart as her very "friends" on the team abandon her and her sister gets hit by a car. This is a truly excellent book for absolutely anybody.
(*10)
OUT OF MY MIND is a book about a girl confined to a wheelchair, without any means of speaking, and barely any of moving. Melody has cerebral palsy and synthesesia, and everybody she knows thinks that she is mentally challenged, apart from her neighbor Violet, her parents, and her school aide Catherine. Being able to answer a question with any difficulty, but also being incapable to say the answer, or indeed anything else, drives Melody out of her mind. She finds a means to reflect on her life through her goldfish Ollie, but one day even he is taken from her. Later in her life, Melody obtains a Medi-talker and joins a quiz team, hoping to finally be good at something in life. However, she is ripped apart as her very "friends" on the team abandon her and her sister gets hit by a car. This is a truly excellent book for absolutely anybody.
August 2013 "Book of the Month"
![Picture](/uploads/1/5/8/8/15888322/2868178.jpg?188)
THE HUNGER GAMES by Suzanne Collins
(S*10)
THE HUNGER GAMES is known by almost everybody in the Western Hemisphere. A lot of people in the Eastern Hemisphere are familiar with it, too. Anyway, THE HUNGER GAMES is a science fiction novel set in the ruins of North America, where a cruel, biased country has evolved, that forces its junior citizens from its outlying districts to fight each other to the death in an arena on live television. Katniss Everdeen was chosen to do exactly that. Sent into an arena to face brutal opponents who have been preparing for this moment their whole lives, it seems as is Katniss has no chance of survival. Or does she? This literary sensation is stuff of legend, full of action and suspense brimming throughout the pages. Inside this book, author Suzanne Collins has let loose all of her creativity, sense of adventure, and writing talent. This is the best book of the year, and maybe the entire decade. Try the book or the movie, no matter what your age is or what your writing preferences are.
(S*10)
THE HUNGER GAMES is known by almost everybody in the Western Hemisphere. A lot of people in the Eastern Hemisphere are familiar with it, too. Anyway, THE HUNGER GAMES is a science fiction novel set in the ruins of North America, where a cruel, biased country has evolved, that forces its junior citizens from its outlying districts to fight each other to the death in an arena on live television. Katniss Everdeen was chosen to do exactly that. Sent into an arena to face brutal opponents who have been preparing for this moment their whole lives, it seems as is Katniss has no chance of survival. Or does she? This literary sensation is stuff of legend, full of action and suspense brimming throughout the pages. Inside this book, author Suzanne Collins has let loose all of her creativity, sense of adventure, and writing talent. This is the best book of the year, and maybe the entire decade. Try the book or the movie, no matter what your age is or what your writing preferences are.