Small Steps
by Louis Sachar
This is the companion book to "Holes". This book is about Armpit trying to stay out of trouble after being released from Camp Green Lake. Because he wants to make some money, he teams up with X-Ray, a friend from camp, to buy some tickets and scalp them. At the concert, Armpit finds out that the tickets weren't real, and they are about to get in major trouble. Also in this book, Armpit creates a really good relationship with a little girl who lives in his neighborhood. This relationship helps him stay out of trouble, because he wants to be a good role model.
I think this is a really good book because of the relationship between Armpit and the little girl. I myself think this book is even better than "Holes", but less people know about "Small Steps".
-L. Conyers
Friday, May 29, 2009
Warriors: Fire and Ice
Warriors: Fire and Ice
by Erin Hunter
In this book Fireheart faces a new war between all the clans. He becomes a higher rank and meets new friends. Fireheart tries to figure out if there is a betrayal in his own clan. It’s hard for him because he travels the whole forest. Fireheart faces new challenges in his clan and outside.
I recommend this book because of the action. For me it was better than the 1st book. By reading this book I know that I have to work with others to succeed.
-C. McCoy
by Erin Hunter
In this book Fireheart faces a new war between all the clans. He becomes a higher rank and meets new friends. Fireheart tries to figure out if there is a betrayal in his own clan. It’s hard for him because he travels the whole forest. Fireheart faces new challenges in his clan and outside.
I recommend this book because of the action. For me it was better than the 1st book. By reading this book I know that I have to work with others to succeed.
-C. McCoy
Stardust
Stardust
By: Neil Gaiman
The story starts with Dunstan then moves on to his son
Tristan. Dunstan try’s to find the perfect gift for his
sweetheart Daisy. Years later when his son is about thirteen he
sets off on a journey to find his love a star. He’s gone for
months and can’t find a fallen star. He meets new friends
and enemies as well. Tristan gets a big surprise half way
through his journey.
This book is good because it has a lot of places from England. Like forests, mountains, an old city, and a castle. Stardust was one of my favorite books last year. Read the book to see what happens.
-C. McCoy
By: Neil Gaiman
The story starts with Dunstan then moves on to his son
Tristan. Dunstan try’s to find the perfect gift for his
sweetheart Daisy. Years later when his son is about thirteen he
sets off on a journey to find his love a star. He’s gone for
months and can’t find a fallen star. He meets new friends
and enemies as well. Tristan gets a big surprise half way
through his journey.
This book is good because it has a lot of places from England. Like forests, mountains, an old city, and a castle. Stardust was one of my favorite books last year. Read the book to see what happens.
-C. McCoy
Bat 6
Bat 6
by Virginia Euwer Wolff
"Bat 6" is a book about a softball game that is played between two schools that was started a long time ago to bring together two towns. The people who play in this softball game are sixth grade girls only. This year is the 50th anniversary of the game, and it is expected to be the biggest so far. However, both teams receive a new girl. The two girls are very different. Something has happened to one of the girls' father, and this event causes hatred toward the other new girl. This causes a big crisis that happens at the softball game.
This story takes place a few years after World War II. This is a major factor to the event that happens at the softball game. In addition, many other little events hint at clues as to what is going to happen on the field at the big game.
I recommend this book because in a way it's a mystery about what is going to happen at the softball game. There are hints, but nothing give away the whole thing, and when it happens, it only takes a second.
-L. Conyers
by Virginia Euwer Wolff
"Bat 6" is a book about a softball game that is played between two schools that was started a long time ago to bring together two towns. The people who play in this softball game are sixth grade girls only. This year is the 50th anniversary of the game, and it is expected to be the biggest so far. However, both teams receive a new girl. The two girls are very different. Something has happened to one of the girls' father, and this event causes hatred toward the other new girl. This causes a big crisis that happens at the softball game.
This story takes place a few years after World War II. This is a major factor to the event that happens at the softball game. In addition, many other little events hint at clues as to what is going to happen on the field at the big game.
I recommend this book because in a way it's a mystery about what is going to happen at the softball game. There are hints, but nothing give away the whole thing, and when it happens, it only takes a second.
-L. Conyers
Cracker! The Best Dog in Vietnam
Cracker! The Best Dog in Vietnam
by Cynthia Kadohata
There is a dog named Cracker. She is a German Shepherd. Her owner is named Willie. Willie used to live in a house, but when his dad got laid off, they had to move to an apartment. The only bad thing is that the apartment does not allow dogs. Because of this, they have to send Cracker to the military, so she can become a military dog. Rick becomes Cracker's new owner, but Cracker still misses Willie a lot. She is going to Vietnam with the military.
Read this book to find out what happens to Cracker. Will she come back to America, or die saving Rick? You will have to read to find out more! This is a really good book because it is based on a true story, and tells what happens when dogs go into the military.
-D. Smith
by Cynthia Kadohata
There is a dog named Cracker. She is a German Shepherd. Her owner is named Willie. Willie used to live in a house, but when his dad got laid off, they had to move to an apartment. The only bad thing is that the apartment does not allow dogs. Because of this, they have to send Cracker to the military, so she can become a military dog. Rick becomes Cracker's new owner, but Cracker still misses Willie a lot. She is going to Vietnam with the military.
Read this book to find out what happens to Cracker. Will she come back to America, or die saving Rick? You will have to read to find out more! This is a really good book because it is based on a true story, and tells what happens when dogs go into the military.
-D. Smith
Among the Hidden
Among the Hidden
by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Among the hidden tell the story about a 3rd child that isn’t supposed to be alive. He is known as a shadowchild. His name Luke and is raised in secrecy from the government. His father doesn’t really like him because he almost gives away his secret a lot. He later becomes friends with another shadow child who wants to stop the law.
Among the hidden is a good book because of the suspense. Imagine being kept a secret from the world. The only people who would know you is your family. This is why it’s a great book.
-C. McCoy
Luke is an illegal child. In his society, families are not allowed to have more than two children. Because Luke is the third child, he lives a secret life. Hidden in the attic, Luke has never met anyone other than his parents and brothers, and he never will. No one can know that he exists or he will be killed and his parents charged as criminals.
Luke's life changes one day when he notices a face in the window of a neighboring house. This is unusual because Luke has already seen both parents and two children leave the house.
This is the first in a thought-provoking series set in a world that feels frighteningly similar to our own.
-Ms. McConnel
"Among the Hidden" is about a kid named Luke who is a third child. Third children aren't allowed because of the population law. One day, other houses start being built near Luke and his family. Luke has to hid in his house, but one day he looks out his window and sees another 3rd child. He starts planning how he is going to go over to the house. He finds a way over and meets a girl named Jen who is starting something big. Read to find out what!
This book was amazing. I just read and couldn't stop. But when I got to the end, I couldn't believe what happened.
-J. Clemson
by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Among the hidden tell the story about a 3rd child that isn’t supposed to be alive. He is known as a shadowchild. His name Luke and is raised in secrecy from the government. His father doesn’t really like him because he almost gives away his secret a lot. He later becomes friends with another shadow child who wants to stop the law.
Among the hidden is a good book because of the suspense. Imagine being kept a secret from the world. The only people who would know you is your family. This is why it’s a great book.
-C. McCoy
Luke is an illegal child. In his society, families are not allowed to have more than two children. Because Luke is the third child, he lives a secret life. Hidden in the attic, Luke has never met anyone other than his parents and brothers, and he never will. No one can know that he exists or he will be killed and his parents charged as criminals.
Luke's life changes one day when he notices a face in the window of a neighboring house. This is unusual because Luke has already seen both parents and two children leave the house.
This is the first in a thought-provoking series set in a world that feels frighteningly similar to our own.
-Ms. McConnel
"Among the Hidden" is about a kid named Luke who is a third child. Third children aren't allowed because of the population law. One day, other houses start being built near Luke and his family. Luke has to hid in his house, but one day he looks out his window and sees another 3rd child. He starts planning how he is going to go over to the house. He finds a way over and meets a girl named Jen who is starting something big. Read to find out what!
This book was amazing. I just read and couldn't stop. But when I got to the end, I couldn't believe what happened.
-J. Clemson
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules
by Jeff Kinney
This book is mostly about Greg's brother, Rodrick. Rodrick is a teenager and he is a drummer. Greg's life is ruined because of Rodrick. Rodrick has many friends that destroy Greg's property. Their dad will make them stop, or maybe ground Rodrick for the mess.
The book is really good to read because it has a lot of comedy. It is really funny! When I read it, I started to laugh a lot. That means you should read it, too!
-C. Smith
by Jeff Kinney
This book is mostly about Greg's brother, Rodrick. Rodrick is a teenager and he is a drummer. Greg's life is ruined because of Rodrick. Rodrick has many friends that destroy Greg's property. Their dad will make them stop, or maybe ground Rodrick for the mess.
The book is really good to read because it has a lot of comedy. It is really funny! When I read it, I started to laugh a lot. That means you should read it, too!
-C. Smith
Over Sea, Under Stone
Over Sea, Under Stone
by Susan Cooper
There are three kids on vacation with their parents: Simon, Jane, and Barney. Their uncle Merry found them a nice beach house on a hill. While the kids are exploring the house, they find an attic. While eating a picnic lunch in the large attic, they find a map. That map sends them on a wild and crazy adventure. It's a race between good and evil, and the kids have help from their uncle, too!
I love this book. It is an exciting read filled with thrilling happenings. During many points in the book, I felt like I was there. I think people will like this book even though it is old. They will probably like it because it is the first in a series of action packed stories. You should read this book!
-L. Hall
by Susan Cooper
There are three kids on vacation with their parents: Simon, Jane, and Barney. Their uncle Merry found them a nice beach house on a hill. While the kids are exploring the house, they find an attic. While eating a picnic lunch in the large attic, they find a map. That map sends them on a wild and crazy adventure. It's a race between good and evil, and the kids have help from their uncle, too!
I love this book. It is an exciting read filled with thrilling happenings. During many points in the book, I felt like I was there. I think people will like this book even though it is old. They will probably like it because it is the first in a series of action packed stories. You should read this book!
-L. Hall
Island of the Blue Dolphins
Island of the Blue Dolphins
by Scott O'Dell
My 5th grade teacher read this book to us, and I was surprised by how much I liked it. It is about a native girl who lives on an island with her tribe. One day, soldiers came to claim the island, not knowing the Indians lived there. When they found them, they traded. Many months passed in peace. However, things started to change.
What will happen? How will the girl survive if she is left alone on the island? You'll have to read this book to find out!
-R. Gorrin
by Scott O'Dell
My 5th grade teacher read this book to us, and I was surprised by how much I liked it. It is about a native girl who lives on an island with her tribe. One day, soldiers came to claim the island, not knowing the Indians lived there. When they found them, they traded. Many months passed in peace. However, things started to change.
What will happen? How will the girl survive if she is left alone on the island? You'll have to read this book to find out!
-R. Gorrin
The Clay Marble
The Clay Marble
by Minfong Ho
Dara is one of the thousands of Cambodian families that got separated or destroyed by the war, but there is still hope for her family as they head to a refugee camp by the Thailand border. When safely there, Dara meets and becomes friends with a young girl named Jantu who has almost a magical touch in creating things like toys with mud and scraps of fabric. When the camp is bombed, Jantu makes a clay marble to help Dara track down their families and then return to help Jantu and her brother at the hospital. This book is a very intense read, you need to read it to find out what will happen!
-E. Fernandez
by Minfong Ho
Dara is one of the thousands of Cambodian families that got separated or destroyed by the war, but there is still hope for her family as they head to a refugee camp by the Thailand border. When safely there, Dara meets and becomes friends with a young girl named Jantu who has almost a magical touch in creating things like toys with mud and scraps of fabric. When the camp is bombed, Jantu makes a clay marble to help Dara track down their families and then return to help Jantu and her brother at the hospital. This book is a very intense read, you need to read it to find out what will happen!
-E. Fernandez
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Journey to Jo'Burg: A South African Story
Journey to Jo'Burg: A South African Story
by Beverly Naidoo
Mma lives and works in Johannesburg, far from the village where Naledi and her brother, Tiro, stay home. hen their sister becomes sick, Naledi and Tiro know, deep down, that only one person can save her. Bravely, they set off on a journey to find Mma and bring her back. It isn't until they discover the city that they come to understand the dangers of their country, and the painful struggle for freedom that is taking place all around them. Read this book to find out what will happen: will Dineo get well, and will Mma get permission to see Dineo?
-E. Fernandez
by Beverly Naidoo
Mma lives and works in Johannesburg, far from the village where Naledi and her brother, Tiro, stay home. hen their sister becomes sick, Naledi and Tiro know, deep down, that only one person can save her. Bravely, they set off on a journey to find Mma and bring her back. It isn't until they discover the city that they come to understand the dangers of their country, and the painful struggle for freedom that is taking place all around them. Read this book to find out what will happen: will Dineo get well, and will Mma get permission to see Dineo?
-E. Fernandez
Holes
Holes
by Louis Sachar
"Holes" is about a boy who gets sent to a camp in the desert for punishment. His job there is to dig holes all day. There is a secret mystery there that the owners of the camp want to find. Along the way, Stanley makes lots of new friends. Plus, he helps solve the mystery of Camp Green Lake. This camp is located in the Texas desert, and Stanley soon gets along with everybody there and has lots of friends.
I think his is a good book because it has a mystery, and you have to keep reading to figure it out!
-L. Conyers
"Holes" is about a boy named Stanley Yelnats the IV. He is sent to Camp Green Lake, but it is not really a camp. It is really a juvenile facility where kids that made mistakes have to dig a five foot deep hole every day. Stanley got sent there because this pair of shoes fell and hit him in the head. He picked them up and started walking with them. The cops saw him and chased him down. The shoes were from a famous baseball player, who had donated them to the homeless shelter, where they had been stolen. The kid who actually took them was sent to Camp Green Lake too, but for another crime. The boys went through a lot, and eventually Stanley and Zero (the other boy) ran away. In the end they find something important.
You will have to read it to find out what they find! This book is good, it shows that things are sometimes meant to be.
-D. Smith
by Louis Sachar
"Holes" is about a boy who gets sent to a camp in the desert for punishment. His job there is to dig holes all day. There is a secret mystery there that the owners of the camp want to find. Along the way, Stanley makes lots of new friends. Plus, he helps solve the mystery of Camp Green Lake. This camp is located in the Texas desert, and Stanley soon gets along with everybody there and has lots of friends.
I think his is a good book because it has a mystery, and you have to keep reading to figure it out!
-L. Conyers
"Holes" is about a boy named Stanley Yelnats the IV. He is sent to Camp Green Lake, but it is not really a camp. It is really a juvenile facility where kids that made mistakes have to dig a five foot deep hole every day. Stanley got sent there because this pair of shoes fell and hit him in the head. He picked them up and started walking with them. The cops saw him and chased him down. The shoes were from a famous baseball player, who had donated them to the homeless shelter, where they had been stolen. The kid who actually took them was sent to Camp Green Lake too, but for another crime. The boys went through a lot, and eventually Stanley and Zero (the other boy) ran away. In the end they find something important.
You will have to read it to find out what they find! This book is good, it shows that things are sometimes meant to be.
-D. Smith
Hatchet
Hatchet
by Gary Paulsen
This book is about a boy named Brian and he is going to the Canadian oilfields to visit his father. When the pilot dies of a heart attack, Brian has to land the plane in the middle of nowhere. He has to use his survival skills, the little ones he has to survive in the wilderness. He has to dodge animal attacks, hunger, and even a tornado! Overall, this book is a good book because it is a little boring at first, but then it gets good.
-C. McGee
This story is about a boy named Brian who is going to see his dad. While he is going to the airport Brian's mom gives him a hatchet which he puts in his belt for later use. Brian's parents are divorced because of the SECRET that you'll have to find out during the book. While Brian is going to see his dad, the pilot has a heart attack and dies. After Brian lands the plane, he builds a shelter and hunts animals for food. With his hatchet, he builds weapons, fires, and more.
To me this book is awesome, it shows how a boy could live in the wild with animals, tornadoes, etc. This book made me want to yell for it ending!
-J. Clemson
"Hatchet" is a book about a boy going to the Canadian oil fields to see his father over summer break. His parents had just divorced and Bryan knows his mother's secret. Before getting on the plane his mother gives him a hatchet. As he is on the way to see his father, the pilot has a heart attack and dies. Shortly after the pilot dies the plane runs out of gas and crashes. But Bryan survives the crash. Bryan is now stuck in the wilderness with nothing but a hatchet. He learns how to do things on his own. He learns how to build a fire, hunt, catch fish, and more. Right as everything was good, a tragedy happens. But later it turns out to be great.
I like this book because it shows you that if you try you can do anything. And no matter what, you have to work hard. It shows you that anything is possible just believe in yourself and keep trying.
-L. Conyers
"Hatchet" is about a kid named Brian, and his parents got divorced. He was leaving his mom for the summer to spend time with his dad. On the way the pilot has a heart attack and the plane crashes into a lake. There, he must find a way to survive until someone finds him. Find out all the nasty, amazing, and scary things that happen to Brian in "Hatchet".
-R. Gorrin
by Gary Paulsen
This book is about a boy named Brian and he is going to the Canadian oilfields to visit his father. When the pilot dies of a heart attack, Brian has to land the plane in the middle of nowhere. He has to use his survival skills, the little ones he has to survive in the wilderness. He has to dodge animal attacks, hunger, and even a tornado! Overall, this book is a good book because it is a little boring at first, but then it gets good.
-C. McGee
This story is about a boy named Brian who is going to see his dad. While he is going to the airport Brian's mom gives him a hatchet which he puts in his belt for later use. Brian's parents are divorced because of the SECRET that you'll have to find out during the book. While Brian is going to see his dad, the pilot has a heart attack and dies. After Brian lands the plane, he builds a shelter and hunts animals for food. With his hatchet, he builds weapons, fires, and more.
To me this book is awesome, it shows how a boy could live in the wild with animals, tornadoes, etc. This book made me want to yell for it ending!
-J. Clemson
"Hatchet" is a book about a boy going to the Canadian oil fields to see his father over summer break. His parents had just divorced and Bryan knows his mother's secret. Before getting on the plane his mother gives him a hatchet. As he is on the way to see his father, the pilot has a heart attack and dies. Shortly after the pilot dies the plane runs out of gas and crashes. But Bryan survives the crash. Bryan is now stuck in the wilderness with nothing but a hatchet. He learns how to do things on his own. He learns how to build a fire, hunt, catch fish, and more. Right as everything was good, a tragedy happens. But later it turns out to be great.
I like this book because it shows you that if you try you can do anything. And no matter what, you have to work hard. It shows you that anything is possible just believe in yourself and keep trying.
-L. Conyers
"Hatchet" is about a kid named Brian, and his parents got divorced. He was leaving his mom for the summer to spend time with his dad. On the way the pilot has a heart attack and the plane crashes into a lake. There, he must find a way to survive until someone finds him. Find out all the nasty, amazing, and scary things that happen to Brian in "Hatchet".
-R. Gorrin
Sounder
SOUNDER
By: William .H. Armstrong
This book is about this boy and his dog named Sounder. Sounder was a special dog. His bark was so special it was not like any other dog’s bark. Even though Sounder was a street dog with no place to stay, the little boy loved him. The boy and his family were sort of poor: they barely had stuff to eat at night. Even though they went through all this, the little boy always stayed happy. Sounder made the boy feel good.
However, one day there was this big red faced man, he was really mean and evil and he did not like the dog Sounder at all. He was just evil like that. It seemed like he did not want anyone to be happy because he was not a happy person. However, one day he put Sounder in harm. I wonder what he did to him? You must read the book in order to find out!
-A. Caldwell
By: William .H. Armstrong
This book is about this boy and his dog named Sounder. Sounder was a special dog. His bark was so special it was not like any other dog’s bark. Even though Sounder was a street dog with no place to stay, the little boy loved him. The boy and his family were sort of poor: they barely had stuff to eat at night. Even though they went through all this, the little boy always stayed happy. Sounder made the boy feel good.
However, one day there was this big red faced man, he was really mean and evil and he did not like the dog Sounder at all. He was just evil like that. It seemed like he did not want anyone to be happy because he was not a happy person. However, one day he put Sounder in harm. I wonder what he did to him? You must read the book in order to find out!
-A. Caldwell
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
by Jeff Kinney
This book is about a kid named Greg. Greg is a normal middle school kid. He likes to joke around with his friends, and he likes video games. He also has a weakness. That weakness is Rodrick, his brother. Rodrick always teases him. That's why Greg's life is upside down.
The book is a really good one to read. The book has a lot of comedy. That's why I like it so much!
-C. Smith
Summer vacation is almost over! Greg and his friend Rowley are getting ready to go back to middle school.
This book will take you through Greg and Rowley's crazy adventures in school. These two characters always seem to be at the wrong place at the wrong time!
"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" is the first book in the Wimpy Kid series by Jeff Kinney.
-N. Heilman
by Jeff Kinney
This book is about a kid named Greg. Greg is a normal middle school kid. He likes to joke around with his friends, and he likes video games. He also has a weakness. That weakness is Rodrick, his brother. Rodrick always teases him. That's why Greg's life is upside down.
The book is a really good one to read. The book has a lot of comedy. That's why I like it so much!
-C. Smith
Summer vacation is almost over! Greg and his friend Rowley are getting ready to go back to middle school.
This book will take you through Greg and Rowley's crazy adventures in school. These two characters always seem to be at the wrong place at the wrong time!
"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" is the first book in the Wimpy Kid series by Jeff Kinney.
-N. Heilman
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Among the Betrayed
Among the Betrayed
by Margaret Peterson Haddix
This book is the third book in the "Shadow Children" series. In this book, a girl named Nina goes to jail because of someone in the second book. In this book, she is put in a jail cell to get information about three children. These children don't get very much food or water. This girl is either supposed to betray these three young children or save them. Read to see if she helps them or if she betrays them.
When this was ending, I said "please keep going, please!" If you want a good book, you have to read this. This book has some drama.
-J. Clemson
by Margaret Peterson Haddix
This book is the third book in the "Shadow Children" series. In this book, a girl named Nina goes to jail because of someone in the second book. In this book, she is put in a jail cell to get information about three children. These children don't get very much food or water. This girl is either supposed to betray these three young children or save them. Read to see if she helps them or if she betrays them.
When this was ending, I said "please keep going, please!" If you want a good book, you have to read this. This book has some drama.
-J. Clemson
Among the Imposters
Among the Imposters
by Margaret Peterson Haddix
This book is about a kid named Luke Garner who is an illegal 3rd child. With the help of his friend's father, he is now attending Hendricks School for Boys and it doesn't have any windows. When he gets there he has a few problems: he has a bully in his room, he has no clue where his classes are, and he has no friends. Near the end, someone either wants to help him or get rid of him. Read to see if the problems are solved.
This book was amazing! Whenever I got the chance I read this book. When I got to the end, in my head I was like "keep going". This is the second book in the Shadow Children series.
-J. Clemson
by Margaret Peterson Haddix
This book is about a kid named Luke Garner who is an illegal 3rd child. With the help of his friend's father, he is now attending Hendricks School for Boys and it doesn't have any windows. When he gets there he has a few problems: he has a bully in his room, he has no clue where his classes are, and he has no friends. Near the end, someone either wants to help him or get rid of him. Read to see if the problems are solved.
This book was amazing! Whenever I got the chance I read this book. When I got to the end, in my head I was like "keep going". This is the second book in the Shadow Children series.
-J. Clemson
The Outsiders
The Outsiders
by S.E. Hinton
There is a boy named Ponyboy Curtis. He has two older brothers named Sodapop and Darry. Their parents died in a car accident. The brothers are in this gang called "Greasers". They are called that because they have long hair and put a lot of hair grease in it. They have four other people in their gang; their names are Two-Bit, Johnnycake, Steve, and Dally. They all stick together.
There is another group calls "Socs". The Socs are a bunch of West-Side rich kids. They will jump a Greaser walking by them for no reason whatsoever. The Greasers go through a lot in this book. Two of the gang members in the Greasers group will die...read the book to find out who!
This is a very good book, and it shows how brothers stick together. Read "The Outsiders".
-D. Smith
This is a wonderful novel about a boy named Ponyboy. He lives in a divided town. You're either a Soc, or a Greaser. Ponyboy is a Greaser, and has gone through many hardships, such as being bullied by Socs, experiencing a murder, running away, and having to run through a burning building to save some kids. While saving the kids, his friend Johnny gets severely burned, along with a broken back, and ends up being hospitalized. There is also a big fight between the Socs and the Greasers. Read it to find out what happens!
-Y. Zarrouk
This is a story about a boy named Ponyboy. You have to decide if you are going to be a Greaser or a Soc, and Ponyboy and his brothers hang with the Greasers. They currently live in a different town where no Socs should come around. Ponyboy has to go through a lot to learn and understand what life can do to you when you decide to make bad choices. Ponyboy is a great writer and loves to read books. He has a really good friend named Johnny who in the past has been beaten by some Socs. Ponyboy and Johnny experience a terrible murder, run away, and Johnny gets severally burned with a broken back: what will Ponyboy decide to do now?
I think you should read this book because it teaches you lessons that you don't have to experience, and this book is very emotional.
-E. Fernandez
by S.E. Hinton
There is a boy named Ponyboy Curtis. He has two older brothers named Sodapop and Darry. Their parents died in a car accident. The brothers are in this gang called "Greasers". They are called that because they have long hair and put a lot of hair grease in it. They have four other people in their gang; their names are Two-Bit, Johnnycake, Steve, and Dally. They all stick together.
There is another group calls "Socs". The Socs are a bunch of West-Side rich kids. They will jump a Greaser walking by them for no reason whatsoever. The Greasers go through a lot in this book. Two of the gang members in the Greasers group will die...read the book to find out who!
This is a very good book, and it shows how brothers stick together. Read "The Outsiders".
-D. Smith
This is a wonderful novel about a boy named Ponyboy. He lives in a divided town. You're either a Soc, or a Greaser. Ponyboy is a Greaser, and has gone through many hardships, such as being bullied by Socs, experiencing a murder, running away, and having to run through a burning building to save some kids. While saving the kids, his friend Johnny gets severely burned, along with a broken back, and ends up being hospitalized. There is also a big fight between the Socs and the Greasers. Read it to find out what happens!
-Y. Zarrouk
This is a story about a boy named Ponyboy. You have to decide if you are going to be a Greaser or a Soc, and Ponyboy and his brothers hang with the Greasers. They currently live in a different town where no Socs should come around. Ponyboy has to go through a lot to learn and understand what life can do to you when you decide to make bad choices. Ponyboy is a great writer and loves to read books. He has a really good friend named Johnny who in the past has been beaten by some Socs. Ponyboy and Johnny experience a terrible murder, run away, and Johnny gets severally burned with a broken back: what will Ponyboy decide to do now?
I think you should read this book because it teaches you lessons that you don't have to experience, and this book is very emotional.
-E. Fernandez
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Tupac Shakur: The Legacy
Tupac Shakur (the legacy)
By: Jamal Joseph
This book is about Tupac growing up as a child into being an upcoming rapper. He had a sad childhood because his mother was in and out of jail. She was in this group called the Black Panthers. He did not really have a father figure until his mother met his stepfather. He said in the book that his stepfather was a big father figure to him. Then it ended. His stepfather was also in the group his mother was in. And as I said, some of stuff they did was kind of wrong so they had some charges against his stepfather and he had to go to prison.
Tupac never thought he would become a rapper it just happened. He loved poetry and he was a great poet. Therefore, he took all his pain and heartache and put it into poetry. Then the poetry turned into songs. So that is when his career started. His lyrics were deep and what I mean by that is they meant a lot they made you think. He was an awesome rapper. Everyone loved him. He had it made until… one night he had just left a boxing match in Las Vegas . And he was at the stop light and car pulled right beside him and started to fire the gun. This occurred on September 8, 1996. Then 5 days later on September, 13th, 1996 Tupac was pronounced as dead. Everyone was terribly sad. He still is missed to this day. But will always be known as the best rapper ever.
-A. Caldwell
By: Jamal Joseph
This book is about Tupac growing up as a child into being an upcoming rapper. He had a sad childhood because his mother was in and out of jail. She was in this group called the Black Panthers. He did not really have a father figure until his mother met his stepfather. He said in the book that his stepfather was a big father figure to him. Then it ended. His stepfather was also in the group his mother was in. And as I said, some of stuff they did was kind of wrong so they had some charges against his stepfather and he had to go to prison.
Tupac never thought he would become a rapper it just happened. He loved poetry and he was a great poet. Therefore, he took all his pain and heartache and put it into poetry. Then the poetry turned into songs. So that is when his career started. His lyrics were deep and what I mean by that is they meant a lot they made you think. He was an awesome rapper. Everyone loved him. He had it made until… one night he had just left a boxing match in Las Vegas . And he was at the stop light and car pulled right beside him and started to fire the gun. This occurred on September 8, 1996. Then 5 days later on September, 13th, 1996 Tupac was pronounced as dead. Everyone was terribly sad. He still is missed to this day. But will always be known as the best rapper ever.
-A. Caldwell
Monday, May 11, 2009
Battle of the Labyrinth
Battle of the Labyrinth
by Rick Riordan
In the fourth installment of the Percy Jackson series, the battle between the gods and the titans is only a matter of time away. Percy and his friends must enter the mystical labyrinth, once the home of the minotaur and the testing ground for the hero Theseus, now the lair of Kronos as he gains power and prepares to take a human form. The dangers faced in the labyrinth are fresh and frightening, and this is probably the best in the series since "The Lighting Thief". Greek gods, heroes, half bloods, and monsters permeate the pages, and as Kronos moves from a disembodied voice to a "living" being, the reader will be chilled to realize exactly what the children from Camp Half Blood will be fighting.
A wonderful read full of adventure and action.
-Ms. McConnel
by Rick Riordan
In the fourth installment of the Percy Jackson series, the battle between the gods and the titans is only a matter of time away. Percy and his friends must enter the mystical labyrinth, once the home of the minotaur and the testing ground for the hero Theseus, now the lair of Kronos as he gains power and prepares to take a human form. The dangers faced in the labyrinth are fresh and frightening, and this is probably the best in the series since "The Lighting Thief". Greek gods, heroes, half bloods, and monsters permeate the pages, and as Kronos moves from a disembodied voice to a "living" being, the reader will be chilled to realize exactly what the children from Camp Half Blood will be fighting.
A wonderful read full of adventure and action.
-Ms. McConnel
The Lightning Thief
The Lightning Thief: Percy Jackson and the Olympians
by Rick Riordan
Percy Jackson is a boy who is troubled academically. Every year he has been expelled from every boarding school he has ever gone to. He has a friend named Grover (or should I say goat-friend) and a paralyzed Latin teacher, and a freaky pre-algebra teacher. Percy is sent to camp "Half-Blood" which contains mythical satyrs, Naiads, and even sons and daughters of the twelve Olympian gods and goddesses. Through many events in his life, and with Greek mythology taking over his half-blood world, he is yet to see the adventure that awaits him in the Underworld, the Realm of Hades...and Percy must find out which one of the twelve Olympians is his father.
If you want to know some of the dangerous people, places, and things Percy must face:
Hades: God of the Underworld
Chimera: Wild, savage beast
Echidna: Mother of Beasts
Medusa: Snake woman
The Three Fates: they know who will die and who will live
The Three Furies: the most dreaded of the monsters of Hades
Hellhound: a huge, savage dog sent to kill heroes
Ares: God of War
Clarisse: Daughter of Ares, threatens Percy
These are but some of the evil things Percy must face. But there is a good side to all, and that is why you must READ!
-A. Davis
I have recently read the book "The Lightning Thief", about the son a a normal New Yorker mother but a larger than life father. This book rotates around the Greek myths, and is full of adventure and humor.
Everything starts when, on a field trip, an annoying little girl bothers Percy's best friend, Grover (who turns out to be a Satyr, half man and half goat). Percy tries to hold his anger in, but somehow he gets Nancy, the annoying girl, into a fountain. Later, Percy goes to a camp called "Camp Half Blood", where he meets other demigods (half human, half god). He learns about his father, and how all the old Greek myths are actually true.
Percy also discovers that he should never have been born, because his father is one of the most powerful gods, the Big Three (Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon) and the children of those three gods caused World War II, so the three gods promised not to have any more children.
Percy leaves on a quest, but I will stop there so I won't spoil it for you. You're going to have to read for yourself to find out what happens.
-Y. Zarrouk
Percy is just an average kid. Well, not so average. He was born with ADHD and other issues he was born with. Every school he attends, he got expelled from so far. The Latin class decides to go on a field trip. So their Latin teacher and the class including Percy and his best friend, goes to a local museum. His teacher turns into some weird monster thing and attacks him. Even more weird is that his Latin teacher threw him a pen that somehow turned into a sword. When he returned the next day the teacher is gone and no one seems to remember what had happened. He eventually gets caught up with a war that involves the Gods from the Classical Greek myths. Apparently, Zeus’s lightning bolt was stolen, everyone suspects each other and Percy is one of those suspects. So unless he brings back the lightning bolt a war of Gods will break out.
-S. Kim
Percy Jackson is a straight "F" student who has ADHD. He's been kicked out of every boarding school he goes to. He finally stays at school for almost a year, but then they go on a field trip to a local museum. There he is attacked by one of his teachers who turns into an ugly monster, and what's really weird is that his paralyzed Latin teacher tosses him a pen that turns into a sword. He soon finds out his friend Grover is a Satyr, and that he is a demigod. Turns out that his real father isn't a drunk, mean, gambler, he is one of the three main Greek gods. Percy is told about a camp called Camp Half-Blood. On the way, he gets attacked by another creature, the Minotaur. You won't believe what happens next, I didn't!
-R. Gorrin
by Rick Riordan
Percy Jackson is a boy who is troubled academically. Every year he has been expelled from every boarding school he has ever gone to. He has a friend named Grover (or should I say goat-friend) and a paralyzed Latin teacher, and a freaky pre-algebra teacher. Percy is sent to camp "Half-Blood" which contains mythical satyrs, Naiads, and even sons and daughters of the twelve Olympian gods and goddesses. Through many events in his life, and with Greek mythology taking over his half-blood world, he is yet to see the adventure that awaits him in the Underworld, the Realm of Hades...and Percy must find out which one of the twelve Olympians is his father.
If you want to know some of the dangerous people, places, and things Percy must face:
Hades: God of the Underworld
Chimera: Wild, savage beast
Echidna: Mother of Beasts
Medusa: Snake woman
The Three Fates: they know who will die and who will live
The Three Furies: the most dreaded of the monsters of Hades
Hellhound: a huge, savage dog sent to kill heroes
Ares: God of War
Clarisse: Daughter of Ares, threatens Percy
These are but some of the evil things Percy must face. But there is a good side to all, and that is why you must READ!
-A. Davis
I have recently read the book "The Lightning Thief", about the son a a normal New Yorker mother but a larger than life father. This book rotates around the Greek myths, and is full of adventure and humor.
Everything starts when, on a field trip, an annoying little girl bothers Percy's best friend, Grover (who turns out to be a Satyr, half man and half goat). Percy tries to hold his anger in, but somehow he gets Nancy, the annoying girl, into a fountain. Later, Percy goes to a camp called "Camp Half Blood", where he meets other demigods (half human, half god). He learns about his father, and how all the old Greek myths are actually true.
Percy also discovers that he should never have been born, because his father is one of the most powerful gods, the Big Three (Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon) and the children of those three gods caused World War II, so the three gods promised not to have any more children.
Percy leaves on a quest, but I will stop there so I won't spoil it for you. You're going to have to read for yourself to find out what happens.
-Y. Zarrouk
Percy is just an average kid. Well, not so average. He was born with ADHD and other issues he was born with. Every school he attends, he got expelled from so far. The Latin class decides to go on a field trip. So their Latin teacher and the class including Percy and his best friend, goes to a local museum. His teacher turns into some weird monster thing and attacks him. Even more weird is that his Latin teacher threw him a pen that somehow turned into a sword. When he returned the next day the teacher is gone and no one seems to remember what had happened. He eventually gets caught up with a war that involves the Gods from the Classical Greek myths. Apparently, Zeus’s lightning bolt was stolen, everyone suspects each other and Percy is one of those suspects. So unless he brings back the lightning bolt a war of Gods will break out.
-S. Kim
Percy Jackson is a straight "F" student who has ADHD. He's been kicked out of every boarding school he goes to. He finally stays at school for almost a year, but then they go on a field trip to a local museum. There he is attacked by one of his teachers who turns into an ugly monster, and what's really weird is that his paralyzed Latin teacher tosses him a pen that turns into a sword. He soon finds out his friend Grover is a Satyr, and that he is a demigod. Turns out that his real father isn't a drunk, mean, gambler, he is one of the three main Greek gods. Percy is told about a camp called Camp Half-Blood. On the way, he gets attacked by another creature, the Minotaur. You won't believe what happens next, I didn't!
-R. Gorrin
The Sea of Monsters
The Sea of Monsters
by Rick Riordan
This is a sequel to the book The Lightning Thief. In this book, Percy figures out that his friend Grover is in trouble through a dream. Because it’s a dream, he’s not sure if it is real or not. In the end, it turns out that it was real and Percy and his friends need to save Grover. On the way, he teams up with both friends and enemies. I personally liked this book because it used a lot of humor to keep the reader interested and there were constant battles which also kept me interested.
-S. Kim
by Rick Riordan
This is a sequel to the book The Lightning Thief. In this book, Percy figures out that his friend Grover is in trouble through a dream. Because it’s a dream, he’s not sure if it is real or not. In the end, it turns out that it was real and Percy and his friends need to save Grover. On the way, he teams up with both friends and enemies. I personally liked this book because it used a lot of humor to keep the reader interested and there were constant battles which also kept me interested.
-S. Kim
The Titan's Curse
The Titan's
by Rick Riordan
This is the third book of the series. In this one, Percy and his friends go on a quest to figure out what Luke and Chronos are up to. They team up with Artemis’s “Hunters.” They also bring along a new character in the book named Bianca. She ends up dieing and this upsets Nico, (her brother) who blames everything on Percy. I liked this book for the exact same reason, it kept me interested by using humor, dialect, and with constant battles.
-S. Kim
by Rick Riordan
This is the third book of the series. In this one, Percy and his friends go on a quest to figure out what Luke and Chronos are up to. They team up with Artemis’s “Hunters.” They also bring along a new character in the book named Bianca. She ends up dieing and this upsets Nico, (her brother) who blames everything on Percy. I liked this book for the exact same reason, it kept me interested by using humor, dialect, and with constant battles.
-S. Kim
The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks
The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks
by E. Lockhart
Frankie Landau-Banks was a mildly geeky girl who attended a very prestigious boarding school. That was her freshman year. In her sophomore year, everything changes. Frankie starts growing up, looking more like a woman, and investing in a leave in conditioner to take care of her frizzy hair. Oh, did I mention she secretly heads the largest secret society on campus without anyone knowing it's her? Her intelligence, cunning, and creativity give her the personality of a leader, the leader of the Secret Society of the Basset Hounds. Some of the things she's done are "the night of a thousand dogs", and "the canned beet rebellion", and many, many more. Frankie will grab hold of you and take you for a ride in this very realistic, but somehow not, adventure.
-A. Ellis
Frankie attends an exclusive prep school which was once for boys only but is now coed. Left over from the days of being a school for boys only is a secret society which does not admit girls. Frankie is very upset about this and decides to use the secret society to do her bidding. She has them do all kinds of pranks and pulls their strings in a number of creative and inventive ways.
A major problem for Frankie is that she has a major attraction to Matthew, who is one of the leaders of the secret society and her criminal masterminding has a serious effect on their relationship.
This is a girl power book in the best sense with attractive and interesting characters, both female and male. One wants to encourage Frankie all through the book with, "You go girl!".
-Mr. Dale
by E. Lockhart
Frankie Landau-Banks was a mildly geeky girl who attended a very prestigious boarding school. That was her freshman year. In her sophomore year, everything changes. Frankie starts growing up, looking more like a woman, and investing in a leave in conditioner to take care of her frizzy hair. Oh, did I mention she secretly heads the largest secret society on campus without anyone knowing it's her? Her intelligence, cunning, and creativity give her the personality of a leader, the leader of the Secret Society of the Basset Hounds. Some of the things she's done are "the night of a thousand dogs", and "the canned beet rebellion", and many, many more. Frankie will grab hold of you and take you for a ride in this very realistic, but somehow not, adventure.
-A. Ellis
Frankie attends an exclusive prep school which was once for boys only but is now coed. Left over from the days of being a school for boys only is a secret society which does not admit girls. Frankie is very upset about this and decides to use the secret society to do her bidding. She has them do all kinds of pranks and pulls their strings in a number of creative and inventive ways.
A major problem for Frankie is that she has a major attraction to Matthew, who is one of the leaders of the secret society and her criminal masterminding has a serious effect on their relationship.
This is a girl power book in the best sense with attractive and interesting characters, both female and male. One wants to encourage Frankie all through the book with, "You go girl!".
-Mr. Dale
Friday, May 8, 2009
Brisingr
Brisingr
by Christopher Paolini
Eragon is more skilled and more intelligent than ever. Unfortunately, he has no sword because Morzan's son Murtaph took it. Eragon goes on a quest to retrieve Roran's beloved fiance, and to forge a new sword with the elves. Eragon opens up a whole new Pandora's Box with this adventure. He fights other dragons and their riders, more monsters, and overcomes the most difficult thing: himself. Along with a girl he accidentally cursed to be a shield for others, Eragon rides through this new adventure with fear, excitement, and courage. This book will sweep you off your feet and on to Saphira's back.
-A. Ellis
This book continues from the Inheritance cycle, after Eragon fights on the Burning Plains. It starts off as Eragon and Roran seek revenge on the Raz'ac by fighting their way through the enemy's lair. Then they go back to camp. After a short while, they decide it's time to part. Roran goes to help command a brigade to fight against the empire, and Eragon goes to try to convince the Dwarves to join allies. Roran disobeyed orders by saving the brigade and is whipped 100 lashes. Whereas Eragon helps the Dwarves elect a king in order to get allies for the Varden. Then, Eragon departs to the Elves' home, learns a little, and finally gets a proper Dragon Rider sword. Then he departs again and his Master decides to get out of hiding to help the Varden fight as well. There is a tragic death later, but you'll need to read to find out more! You need to read the other two books for this to really make sense.
-Y. Zarrouk
by Christopher Paolini
Eragon is more skilled and more intelligent than ever. Unfortunately, he has no sword because Morzan's son Murtaph took it. Eragon goes on a quest to retrieve Roran's beloved fiance, and to forge a new sword with the elves. Eragon opens up a whole new Pandora's Box with this adventure. He fights other dragons and their riders, more monsters, and overcomes the most difficult thing: himself. Along with a girl he accidentally cursed to be a shield for others, Eragon rides through this new adventure with fear, excitement, and courage. This book will sweep you off your feet and on to Saphira's back.
-A. Ellis
This book continues from the Inheritance cycle, after Eragon fights on the Burning Plains. It starts off as Eragon and Roran seek revenge on the Raz'ac by fighting their way through the enemy's lair. Then they go back to camp. After a short while, they decide it's time to part. Roran goes to help command a brigade to fight against the empire, and Eragon goes to try to convince the Dwarves to join allies. Roran disobeyed orders by saving the brigade and is whipped 100 lashes. Whereas Eragon helps the Dwarves elect a king in order to get allies for the Varden. Then, Eragon departs to the Elves' home, learns a little, and finally gets a proper Dragon Rider sword. Then he departs again and his Master decides to get out of hiding to help the Varden fight as well. There is a tragic death later, but you'll need to read to find out more! You need to read the other two books for this to really make sense.
-Y. Zarrouk
Thursday, May 7, 2009
More Horowitz Horror
More Horowitz Horror
by Anthony Horowitz
This is a very good book. The stories are very scary, the one I like the best is the one called "The Sound of Murder". What I like about it is that there is a girl named Katie who gets a new teacher named Mr. Spencer. Every time he comes near her, her hearing would mess up. On the first day of class, she could hear what he was thinking, and one day she heard that he wanted to kill his wife. She tried to tell her best friend, but he did not believe her. She kept hearing him say that he wanted to kill his wife, using a kitchen knife. If you want to know the rest, then read this story. It's number one on my list!
-J. Wilson
by Anthony Horowitz
This is a very good book. The stories are very scary, the one I like the best is the one called "The Sound of Murder". What I like about it is that there is a girl named Katie who gets a new teacher named Mr. Spencer. Every time he comes near her, her hearing would mess up. On the first day of class, she could hear what he was thinking, and one day she heard that he wanted to kill his wife. She tried to tell her best friend, but he did not believe her. She kept hearing him say that he wanted to kill his wife, using a kitchen knife. If you want to know the rest, then read this story. It's number one on my list!
-J. Wilson
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Little Brother
Little Brother
by Cory Doctorow
A near-future terrorist attack on San Francisco's Bay Bridge leads to the arrest and detention of Marcus by the Federal government. The fear and humiliation he experiences when he is questioned are detailed and convincing. These experiences lead him to take a stand and become a leader of the resistance and a civil rights activist.
This thriller shows how one can defend themselves digitally from the government's efforts to spy on you. Although the flow of the story is often broken up by Marcus's explanations of RFD cloners, cryptography, and Bayesian math it is a fascinating tale deserving of its choice as one of the ten best books for youth in 2008. A great read.
-Mr. Dale
Marcus Yallow is not the average San Fran teenager. He is a hacker, and a highly skilled one at that. After ditching school, San Francisco is blown up by terrorists. Marcus is unfortunately at the wrong place at the wrong time. They find all his gear and believe he and his friends Darrel, Van, and Juloup are the ones responsible. Of course, they are not, but the Department of Homeland Security thinks they are. Get ready for a techy adventure that will blow your mind by the time you read the first page.
-A. Ellis
by Cory Doctorow
A near-future terrorist attack on San Francisco's Bay Bridge leads to the arrest and detention of Marcus by the Federal government. The fear and humiliation he experiences when he is questioned are detailed and convincing. These experiences lead him to take a stand and become a leader of the resistance and a civil rights activist.
This thriller shows how one can defend themselves digitally from the government's efforts to spy on you. Although the flow of the story is often broken up by Marcus's explanations of RFD cloners, cryptography, and Bayesian math it is a fascinating tale deserving of its choice as one of the ten best books for youth in 2008. A great read.
-Mr. Dale
Marcus Yallow is not the average San Fran teenager. He is a hacker, and a highly skilled one at that. After ditching school, San Francisco is blown up by terrorists. Marcus is unfortunately at the wrong place at the wrong time. They find all his gear and believe he and his friends Darrel, Van, and Juloup are the ones responsible. Of course, they are not, but the Department of Homeland Security thinks they are. Get ready for a techy adventure that will blow your mind by the time you read the first page.
-A. Ellis
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
