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Monday, October 27, 2014
Friday, October 3, 2014
Wondering What to Read?
Here are some great books reviewed by our wonderful Student Library Aides!!
The Lightning Thief
The Lightning Thief is about a boy named Percy Jackson and so far he has been kicked out of boarding school for about the 5th time, but thats the least of his worries. So far he has been attacked by mythological creatures claiming he stole a lightning bolt but the thing is he has no idea what they’re talking about. Also to top it off he has been doing strange things he can’t explain. Which has been getting him in so much trouble so far and to top it out he just found out he’s a demigod and only has ten days to get the lighting bolt and return it to Zeus.Ya! No problem.
Gator gives it (out of 4):
Reviewed by Peyton S.
By James Klise
The Art of Secrets is a very interesting book. It is about a high schooler named Saba Khan, whose house is burned down without any explanation. Her friends Kendra and Kevin Spoon decide to start an auction to raise money for the Khan family, and mysteriously find a famous book of artwork which is worth a fortune. This new fortune raises questions, suspicions, and greed. This novel is told through diary entries, interviews, letters, articles, texts, and various other documentation.
In this book, the pretty little liars, Aria, Spencer, Emily, and Hanna, go on winter break. Their enemy, A, hunts each of them down and discovers their uttermost secrets. Each of the girls has something to hide. Will you figure out what each girls secret is?
The Lightning Thief
by Rick Riordan
Why I picked It: I picked it because I really enjoy mythology and also after seeing the first movie it interested me to see how good the book was. Also because we started it in fifth grade and I wanted to find out what happened after the first chapter. That’s why I picked the book.
What I thought: What I thought was that it was amazing. Percy Jackson was filled with action and adventure and some many mythological characters that just made me want to read more. Also it was interesting because you got to really feel what he felt throughout his adventure and all the fighting he had gone through the whole book.
Who should read it: The people that should read this is the people that love action and adventure throughout the whole book. Also people that really enjoy and find mythology interesting. Also people that enjoy a strong main character and that has special powers.
Gator Gives it (out of 4):
Reviewed by Ainoa C.
By Anthony Horowitz
The young teenage spy, Alex Rider, has been hired by MI6 again. This time, he agrees to go undercover with his newly met godfather to take down an Indonesian crime empire, The Snakeheads. As the mission unfolds, Alex learns more about the dark past of his godfather and how his parents died.
Why I picked it: I picked this book because I have read the rest of the series, and it’s really good. The kid James Bond plot really drew me in. This book lived up to the rest of the series, just as I thought it would.
What I thought: This book was even better than the rest of the series. The twisting plot and backstory were great. It is a wonderful installment to the Alex Rider series.
Who should read it: Anyone who likes adventure and really cool gadgets should read this book.
Gator gives it (out of 4):
By: Jack M.
by William Osborne
There are two main characters named Otto and Leni. They have to escape the war, of the Natzis. They must go to Europe where they can become spies,and figure out how to defeat the Natzis and there leader Hitler. They find their secret weapon, but have to hide it and keep it safe. They travel place to place trying to hide from them and keep their secret weapon a secret.
Why I picked it: I picked this book, because I love reading action and adventure books.I also love reading about historical event that turn into books, like this one. The cover also looks pretty interesting. The two main characters are running and behind them is what looks like a war. This books cover also sells the book for me.
What I thought: I thought this book was a little confusing at the beginning, but after that I loved it. There was always something happening, and you never got bored. There was always some kind of action, whether it was hiding from someone or planning something big or breaking into places.
Who should read it: If you love action and adventure books then you should definitely read this book. I always keeps you on the edge if your seat, with something new always coming.
Gator gives it (out of 4):
By: Lauren C.
By James Dashner
Thomas is a normal kid, when all of a sudden he ends up in the glade, the center part of a maze, with his memory swiped by WICKED. Thomas is different than everyone else; he remembers more than anyone there, including the 3 year gladers. With multiple catastrophes happening for the first time when Thomas arrives, he and the gladers must find a way to escape the maze, no matter the cost.
Why I picked it: I picked this book because, it was written very well, and made me want to read more. The book had an interesting plot line, and was different than typical action plots. The book had many factors that made you want to read more, and finish the series quickly.
What I thought: The book was very action packed and it is a perfect match for an action seeker like myself. The book takes you on multiple emotional rollercoasters, and will cause you to want to go out and immediately buy the next book. All In all, even though Dashner kills some of your favorite characters, it is an excellent book.
Who should read it:
This novel is perfect for the thrill/action seekers, and even for those who enjoy a bit of romance.
Gator Gives It (out of 4):
Reviewed by Abbey K.
by Sheila Turnage
Mo LoBeau was only a baby when she was found floating on a briefcase down river by the colonel after a hurricane had struck in North Carolina. 11 years after, she continues the look for her “upstream mother” when a man in Tupelo Landing ,a small town, is found dead. Read this exciting and engaging book and find out what happens. Three Times Lucky has it all, from suspense to comedy.
Why I picked it: The type of cover is a lot like the one in my favorite series ,the secret series, by Pseudonymous Bosch. It has all the elements I like in a book. Also the name was intriguing.
What I thought: It thought it was an awesome book.I liked how the mystery unrolled and more action happened. After i finished, I couldn't wait for the second one.
Who should read it: Everyone who enjoys a great gripping book.
Gator gives it (out of 4):
Reviewed by Tony Z.
By Richard Paul Evans
It stars Michael Vey an average 14 year old with a secret.He has the power to control electricity.Trying to find why he has these special abilities he learns he’s not the only one and someone is trying to gather them up to form total control over the world.
Why I picked it: I picked this book because of it’s title, picture,and the summary.The book’s title itself shows that there is something special about Michael and cell 25.Along with the title,the picture on the front shows that Michael has some kind of gift or ability that will entice readers into finding out what it is.Finally, the summary sums up the major keypoints into the book to draw readers in to this adventurous life of Michael.
What I thought: I thought the book was amazing.It had a teenage boy as the main character that we could relate to and powers we wish we had.It gave the sense of unity that all books need to have.But most of all it gave kids the chance of adventure we can’t have.This book overall had relatable characters,powers we wish we had,a sense of unity,and adventure we dream of;it is a stunning read for avid readers.
Who should read it: Anyone looking for a rebellious hero,superhuman abilities, and a need to do what’s right should read Michael Vey: Prisoner Of Cell 25.
Gators give it (out of 4):
Reviewed by Mariah M.
By Veronica Roth
Beatris Prior was born into a society that consists of five factions, Abnegation practices selflessness, Candor which is based on honesty, Dauntless which is made up of the bravest soldiers, Erudite which contains the smartest people, and Amity which is based on friendliness. Abnegation runs the government, because they put others before themselves. Candor runs the jury because they are honest, even if you don't want them to be. Dauntless is the army, they protect the society from whatever is outside of the fence. Erudite consist of the doctors, teachers, scientist, etc. Amity runs the farms and transports the goods around to all of the factions. If you got kicked out of your faction, you became factionless, which is about ten times worse than being homeless. Once a child becomes sixteen he/she has to take a test that will tell them what faction they belong in. The following day they will choose to either stay with their family or choose another factions and leave their family behind forever. Beatris and her brother Caleb take the test. Beatris result comes out inconclusive, Divergent. Divergents threaten the system because they think differently than the other people. ‘Tris’ chooses dauntless leaving her family behind. What happens when Erudite plan a simulation that will kill many and leave others living murders? Will being Divergent help Tris or hurt her in the long run? Will the new relationships Tris has developed stay strong or crumble underneath her? Read to find out!
Why I picked it: I picked Divergent because i really enjoyed reading it. I actually refused to read it or watch the movie for a long time, because i thought that is was going to be just like “Hunger Games.” I was totally wrong! This was one of the best books that I have read!
What I thought: I thought that Veronica Roth developed a really cool idea. It is weird to think that she made this whole futuristic society up in college! I really liked it and how that even though there is action, there is also a little romance in it. The relationship that Veronica had Tris develop is cool because its developed on the idea that the girl doesn't rely on the boy. It has a very strong female lead, which i think a lot of action books lack.
Who should read it: I think that anyone can and should read this. Veronica reaches every type of genera in one book, allowing many different tastes in books to read it.
Gators give it:
Reviewed by Emily M.
By Terra Elan Mcvoy
Pure is about a high schooler named Tabitha, who has a group of friends that all wear purity rings. They are all very close, and do everything together. But when a friend breaks a promise, and the friendships unravel, Tab is caught in the middle of it all. She has to step back, and learn who her real friends are, and what decisions she should make.
Why I Picked it: I picked this book to review because I couldn’t put it down! Mcvoy captures the life of your average teenage girl, and turns it into something special. She was able to create a storyline filled with every girls dreams, as well as their nightmares. When I finished the novel, I immediately recommended it to all my friends, and they too were astonished with its power and message.
What I thought: I thought that this book was very fulfilling. This novel captured the ups and downs of a teens life, in a very exiting way. One of the best parts, is the romance between Tabitha and Jake. This pair is filled with every girls dream.
Who should read it: This book is geared towards teen girls, showing you tragedy, as well as some sweet romance. Every girl that reads this novel will walk away with a different message. This story is great for teens to read, and they won’t regret it!
Gator gives it (out of 4):
Reviewed by Lauren P.
By Orson Scott Card
Ender Wiggin, a young genius, is selected to train at the Battle School, in hopes of one-day protecting (or even saving) Earth. Earth is currently in a war with an alien enemy seeking to destroy the Earth and everything living on it. Ender may be the only person that can save the world, “the only way to find out is to throw Ender into harsher training, to chip away and find the diamond inside, or destroy him utterly”(Scott Card).
Why I picked it: I saw the movie before I read the book, and I really enjoyed the movie. Usually, I enjoy books better than the movies, so I decided to check out the book. I enjoyed the plot and characters immensely.
What I thought: I really enjoyed the characters and the plot. I was interested throughout the book and there was never a dull moment. It is a good Young Adult novel that anyone can enjoy.
Who should read it: Even though there isn't many “girl” characters, it can still be enjoyed by both boys and girls.
Gator Gives It (out of 4):
Reviewed by Katherine R.
By Joelle Charbonneau
The book was about a girl named Cia who was one of the top ace students in her class.She graduated from her school feeling really happy, but that ended when she was told that she was selected for the testing. The Testing is where the picked student are sent be tested to have a chance to enter the university at Tosu City. She was sent to go and told not to trust the other testing candidates. The others students would try to make you ill enough to not be able to continue the testing.
Why I picked it: When I read the summary of the book it caught my attention. When I started to read it I couldn’t let go of the book because it was really engaging you to not stop reading. After, I finished reading the book I wanted to continue the series to find out the ending.
What I thought: The book was really extraordinary and mind blowing to just don’t stop reading. I could not wait to get to ILA, Library Aide, and back home to continue reading it. I would read for an entire hour just because the book was so interesting.
Who should read it: My best friend John who really loves to read the series of Legend and The Testing is closely related to Legend.
Gator gives it (out of 4):
Reviewed by William S.
By Joelle Charbonneau.
“The Seven Stages War left much of the planet a charred wasteland. The future belongs to the next generation’s chosen few who must rebuild it. But to enter this elite group, candidates must first pass The Testing” (from book jacket). Cia Vale is one of the candidates for this year, and she is eager and excited to improve the United Commonwealth, but her father, a previous testing contestant, has some concerns. He reminds her to trust no one, but she believes she can trust Thomas, a childhood friend from Five Lakes. “To survive, Cia must choose: love without truth or life without trust” (from book jacket).
Why I picked it: I picked this book because it is exciting and intriguing throughout all the books, and it has tons of cool plot twists. It keeps you guessing throughout the books. I picked it because it is a great dystopian read that isn’t as widely known as some of the other books.
What I thought: It was a adventurous and intriguing book to read and she always had a trick up her sleeve. It has a good balance of action, secrets, and romance. It makes you think about how the world could look in a few decades.
Who should read it: It is a great read for girls and guys. I think that everyone can relate to the book, even though your life probably isn’t as intense as Cia’s life. Overall, the Testing is a great read for all people.
Gator gives it (out of 4):
Reviewed by Peyton S.
By James Klise
Why I picked it: I picked this book on a whim, and I’m glad I did. While browsing at the bookstore, I came across The Art of Secrets on a random display. I was intrigued by the cover, which is fairly simple, but states, “Where there’s smoke.” This interested me, and I wanted to learn more.
What I thought: This book was pretty good. It kept you interested, and there were constant twists and turns in the plot. The only downside of this book, (which disappointed me) was that at the end, the loose ends of the plot were not resolved. You had to inference who was guilty and how exactly the crime unfolded for yourself. To be honest, it was a bit frustrating to read the book and not get the ending explained, but overall, I really enjoyed reading this book.
Who should read it: This book would appeal to any young adult reader who loves mystery and is craving something different from the typical dystopian novel.
Gator gives it (out of 4):
I would give it four, if it weren't for the inconclusive ending, but it really does deserve the 3 stars, it was a very well written and interesting book.
Reviewed by Maddie U.
By Sara Shepard
Why I picked it: I picked this book because it keeps you hanging and wanting to read more. The theme is mysterious and romantic at the same time. When I read this book, I didn't want to put it down.
What I thought: I thought that this book was very intriguing and suspenseful. My favorite part was how A keeps following each of the girls even though they are all in different places. The book definitely has an ominous feel and a delirious plot.
Who should read it: People who love mystery and romance should read this book.
Gator gives it:
Reviewed by: Emma T.
By Kiera Cass
If you have read “The Selection” series by kiera cass, then you know that an ordinary girl, America Singer, is content with her life and is already in love before competing in the selection, but what about Prince Maxon? What about the boy she was in love with? Was Maxon in love before the selection? If any of these questions interest you, then “the Prince and the Guard” is exactly what you are looking for.
Why I picked it: I decided to read “the Prince and the Guard” after read all three of the other books in the series. I had heard of the book before, but never really looked into it until the GMS library ordered a few copies. After I read the book cover, I couldn’t resist.
What I thought: I overall loved the book and every page made me want to read another. Even though I read the book after reading the last book in the series, it was written before the final book, “the One,” and will not spoil anything. I definitely think all girls should not only read this book, but the entire series.
Who should read it: I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys dystopian books such as “the Hunger Games” or “divergent.”
Gator gives it (out of 4):
Reviewed by: Morgan O.
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