Circus Galacticus by Deva Fagan

Reviewed by Josie K.
Grade 7

Has anyone ever told you that you’re special? Have you ever wanted to join the circus? In Circus Galacticus the main character, Trix has been told she is special ever since she was little by her parents, but going to Bleeker Academy has made her feel about as special as a piece of dirt. Then having the circus come to town opened her eyes. It gives her hope that maybe she is special and important.

One main thing you should really know is that the Circus Galacticus is an alien circus. At many points through the story Trix feels out of place until the end. Another thing is that the aliens look like humans but have special powers. She finally has real friends unlike at Bleeker and she isn’t sure if it’s real. Circus Galacticus is split up into 4 main groups The Techs, The Principles, The Freaks, and The clowns.

There are many characters that are mentioned and play different roles in the book Circus Galacticus, but I feel the main ones are Trix, Ringmaster, Nola, and Nyl. There’s one more but she kind of just provokes Trix and Nola and that’s Sierra. Nyl is the bad guy in the book. He just seems to always be there lurking around Trix in the shadows. He mainly tries to get this stone from Trix the entire time and will do anything to get it. Plus he always tells Trix that she needs to be cleansed. My outlook on Nyl would have to be annoying, creepy, and persistent. Trix on the other hand is quite confused and sort of lost and very curious. She feels needed then will do something stupid and ruin either her life or someone else’s repeatedly through the book. Nola is smart, brave, and a great friend. She is always there to help Trix out no matter what the consequences may be. Ringmaster is confusing. He never takes a complete character in the story he different all through the book. One chapter he is brave and bold the next he running or hiding, etc. As I mentioned the 4 main groups: Nola is a Tech, Trix is not officially anything at the beginning and it’s not until later in the book when she finally gets classified but until then she is a Clown, Nyl being the bad guy isn’t a part of the circus, and Ringmaster is well the Ringmaster.

I would definitely recommend Circus Galacticus. The book was definitely a page turner for me and I loved it. The theme I believe the author was trying to get through is to always believe in yourself and to take the chances life presents. Another theme could be true friends may turn their backs for a while but will always be there for you when you need them. This is a very good choice for you if you enjoy mystery/drama/adventure/crazy just intriguing book. This is 5 stars and I have recommended it to all my friends.

Spoiler Alert Mini-Review: Daughters Unto Devils by Amy Lukavics

Daughters Unto Devils
Coming soon to WPPL

When sixteen-year-old Amanda Verner's family decides to move from their small mountain cabin to the vast prairie, she hopes it is her chance for a fresh start. She can leave behind the memory of the past winter; of her sickly ma giving birth to a baby sister who cries endlessly; of the terrifying visions she saw as her sanity began to slip, the victim of cabin fever; and most of all, the memories of the boy she has been secretly meeting with as a distraction from her pain. The boy whose baby she now carries.

When the Verners arrive at their new home, a large cabin abandoned by its previous owners, they discover the inside covered in blood. And as the days pass, it is obvious to Amanda that something isn't right on the prairie. She's heard stories of lands being tainted by evil, of men losing their minds and killing their families, and there is something strange about the doctor and his son who live in the woods on the edge of the prairie. But with the guilt and shame of her sins weighing on her, Amanda can't be sure if the true evil lies in the land, or deep within her soul.





Spoiler Alert reviewer: Victoria
1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 5
How vivid was the setting? 2
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 4
How well did the book hold your interest? 5
How well did the author's language add to the book? 3
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 5

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 5
How readable was this book? 5
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 5

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 5
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 5
How memorable was this book? 5
How did you feel about the ending? 3
How creative was this book? 5

Marketing
How well does the cover match the story? (ARC did not include final cover)
Rank the jacket blurb. 5
Rank the title. 5
How well does the title match the story? 5
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Horrific

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: More knowledge of the demons and how Amanda fought them

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Intense, scary, sisterly, demonic

Spoiler Alert Mini-Review: Damage Done by Amanda Panitch

Damage Done
Coming soon to WPPL

Before: Julia had a twin brother, a boyfriend, and a best friend.

After: She has a new identity, a new hometown, and memories of those twenty-two minutes that refuse to come into focus. At least, that’s what she tells the police.

Now that she’s Lucy Black, she's able to begin again. She's even getting used to the empty bedroom where her brother should be. And her fresh start has attracted the attention of one of the hottest guys in school, a boy who will do anything to protect her. But when someone much more dangerous also takes notice, Lucy's forced to confront the dark secrets she thought were safely left behind.

One thing is clear: The damage done can never be erased. It’s only just beginning. . . .



Spoiler Alert reviewer: Alexa
1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 5!
How vivid was the setting? 4
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 5
How well did the book hold your interest? 4
How well did the author's language add to the book? 4
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 5

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 5
How readable was this book? 4
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 5! 5!

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 5! 5! 5! 5!
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 4
How memorable was this book? 5
How did you feel about the ending? 5
How creative was this book? 5! 5! 5! 5! 5! 5!

Marketing
How well does the cover match the story? 5
Rank the jacket blurb. 4
Rank the title. 4
How well does the title match the story? 4
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: I love this book too much to hate anything about it!

Pick 5 words to describe this book: suspenseful, saddening, mysterious, drama, AWESOME!!

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: A Thousand Nights by E.K. Johnston

A Thousand Nights
Coming October 2015

Synopsis:

Lo-Melkhiin killed three hundred girls before he came to her village, looking for a wife. When she sees the dust cloud on the horizon, she knows he has arrived. She knows he will want the loveliest girl: her sister. She vows she will not let her be next.

And so she is taken in her sister's place, and she believes death will soon follow. Lo-Melkhiin's court is a dangerous palace filled with pretty things: intricate statues with wretched eyes, exquisite threads to weave the most beautiful garments. She sees everything as if for the last time.But the first sun rises and sets, and she is not dead. Night after night, Lo-Melkhiin comes to her and listens to the stories she tells, and day after day she is awoken by the sunrise. Exploring the palace, she begins to unlock years of fear that have tormented and silenced a kingdom. Lo-Melkhiin was not always a cruel ruler. Something went wrong.

Far away, in their village, her sister is mourning. Through her pain, she calls upon the desert winds, conjuring a subtle unseen magic, and something besides death stirs the air.

Back at the palace, the words she speaks to Lo-Melkhiin every night are given a strange life of their own. Little things, at first: a dress from home, a vision of her sister. With each tale she spins, her power grows. Soon she dreams of bigger, more terrible magic: power enough to save a king, if she can put an end to the rule of a monster.


Spoiler Alert reviewer: Heather

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 4
How vivid was the setting? 5
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 5
How well did the book hold your interest? 5
How well did the author's language add to the book? 5
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 4

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 5
How readable was this book? 5
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 5

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 5
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 5
How memorable was this book? 5
How did you feel about the ending? 5
How creative was this book? 4

Marketing
How well does the cover match the story? 5
Rank the jacket blurb. 4
Rank the title. 4
How well does the title match the story? 4
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Magical

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: Really wasn't feeling the "thousand" part, more like 2 months

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Fairy tale for young adults

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: The Murdstone Trilogy by Mal Peet

Murdstone Trilogy
Coming September 2015

Synopsis:

Award-winning author Philip Murdstone is in trouble. His star has waned. The world is leaving him behind. His agent, the beautiful and ruthless Minerva Cinch, convinces him that his only hope is to write a sword-and-sorcery blockbuster. Unfortunately, Philip - allergic to the faintest trace of Tolkien - is utterly unsuited to the task. In a dark hour, a dwarfish stranger comes to his rescue. But the deal he makes with Pocket Wellfair turns out to have Faustian consequences. The Murdstone Trilogy is a richly black comedy from an author described by one American critic as 'the best writer you've probably never heard of'.

Spoiler Alert reviewer: Victoria

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 1
How vivid was the setting? 5
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 2
How well did the book hold your interest? 2
How well did the author's language add to the book? 5
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 3

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 3
How readable was this book? 1
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 1

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 1
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 1
How memorable was this book? 1
How did you feel about the ending? 1
How creative was this book? 1

Marketing
Rank the jacket blurb. 1
Rank the title. 5
How well does the title match the story? 5
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Melodramatic

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: Style of writing

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Lost opportunity; droning; rambling; dull

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: We'll Never Be Apart by Emiko Jean

We Will Never Be Apart
Coming October 2015

Synopsis:

Murder.

Fire.

Revenge.

That’s all seventeen-year-old Alice Monroe thinks about. Committed to a mental ward at Savage Isle, Alice is haunted by memories of the fire that killed her boyfriend, Jason. A blaze her twin sister Cellie set. But when Chase, a mysterious, charismatic patient, agrees to help her seek vengeance, Alice begins to rethink everything. Writing out the story of her troubled past in a journal, she must confront hidden truths.

Is the one person she trusts only telling her half the story?


Spoiler Alert reviewer: Madison

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 4
How vivid was the setting? 4
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 5
How well did the book hold your interest? 4
How well did the author's language add to the book? 3
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 4

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 4
How readable was this book? 5
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 4

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 4
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 3
How memorable was this book? 4
How did you feel about the ending? 4
How creative was this book? 4

Marketing
How well does the cover match the story? 3
Rank the jacket blurb. 3
Rank the title. 3
How well does the title match the story? 3
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Unique

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: Lack of character description (it NEVER described the main character)

Pick 5 words to describe this book: unique, interesting, strange, different, mysterious

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: Illuminae by Amy Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Illuminae
Coming August 2015

Synopsis:

This morning, Kady thought breaking up with Ezra was the hardest thing she’d have to do.

This afternoon, her planet was invaded.

The year is 2575, and two rival megacorporations are at war over a planet that’s little more than an ice-covered speck at the edge of the universe. Too bad nobody thought to warn the people living on it. With enemy fire raining down on them, Kady and Ezra—who are barely even talking to each other—are forced to fight their way onto an evacuating fleet, with an enemy warship in hot pursuit.

But their problems are just getting started. A deadly plague has broken out and is mutating, with terrifying results; the fleet's AI, which should be protecting them, may actually be their enemy; and nobody in charge will say what’s really going on. As Kady hacks into a tangled web of data to find the truth, it's clear only one person can help her bring it all to light: the ex-boyfriend she swore she'd never speak to again.

Told through a fascinating dossier of hacked documents—including emails, schematics, military files, IMs, medical reports, interviews, and more—Illuminae is the first book in a heart-stopping, high-octane trilogy about lives interrupted, the price of truth, and the courage of everyday heroes.


Spoiler Alert reviewer: Kyra

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 5
How vivid was the setting? 3
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 3
How well did the book hold your interest? 2
How well did the author's language add to the book? 5
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 3

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 2
How readable was this book? 3
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 2

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 4
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 5
How memorable was this book? 5
How did you feel about the ending? 5
How creative was this book? 5

Marketing
Rank the jacket blurb. 4
Rank the title. 5
How well does the title match the story? 4
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Intellectual

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: that it took awhile to get into

Pick 5 words to describe this book: interesting, thought provoking, sad, unique

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: A History of Glitter and Blood by Hannah Moskowitz

A History of Glitter and Blood
Sixteen-year-old Beckan and her friends are the only fairies brave enough to stay in Ferrum when war breaks out. Now there is tension between the immortal fairies, the subterranean gnomes, and the mysterious tightropers who arrived to liberate the fairies.

But when Beckan's clan is forced to venture into the gnome underworld to survive, they find themselves tentatively forming unlikely friendships and making sacrifices they couldn't have imagined. As danger mounts, Beckan finds herself caught between her loyalty to her friends, her desire for peace, and a love she never expected.

Spoiler Alert reviewer: Savannah

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 5
How vivid was the setting? 4
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 5
How well did the book hold your interest? 5
How well did the author's language add to the book? 5
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 4

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 4
How readable was this book? 5
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 4

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 5
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 3
How memorable was this book? 4
How did you feel about the ending? 3
If you did not finish, how did you feel about the beginning? finished it
How creative was this book? 5

Marketing
Rank the cover (only if the final cover version has been released).
How well does the cover match the story? 4
Rank the jacket blurb. 3
Rank the title. 3
How well does the title match the story? 4
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Unique

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: First few chapters confusing; no character development until later

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Fast paced, original, different, fantasy, adventure

Zeroboxer by Fonda Lee

Reviewed by Will M.
Grade 12

Who needs gravity? Zeroboxers don't. In this futuristic landscape, Earth is no longer the only habitable planet, Martians are real and outer space is no longer so far away. Valtego Station is nothing more than a tourist attraction in spaces's vast landscape but to Carr Luka it is his second home.

Carr Luka was born on planet Earth whose inhabitants are called Terrans, used more as an insult then a common practice. Carr is one of the few zeroboxers that hail from Earth, but he is also one of the best. But Carr has a sercret that he doesn't even know about. Carr doesn't realize what has happened until is too late. Now he's in big trouble. Can Carr find a way to clear his name, or is everything he worked so hard for meaningless?


The author portrays Carr as a compassionate, yet tough individual. He has vowed to protect Enzo, an underpriviledged pal from Earth. He is both trusting and skeptical. He believes those close to him, but he is wary of those who are not. Carr is also extremely ill tempered and prone to explode in a hurricane of violence, especially at the proposal of bad news. Overall Carr is an intriguing character that keeps you entranced in the book, only putting it down once you have finished.


This book is a must read for anybody who likes a good piece of fiction. It has something for just about everybody: romance, action, suspense, and adventure. This book is beautifully woven together and you almost feel as if you're there, in a trance even. Zeroboxer is a must read indeed.

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: Thirteen by Tom Hoyle

Thirteen
Born at midnight in London, on the stroke of the new millennium, Adam is the target of a cult that believes boys born on this date must die before the end of their thirteenth year. Twelve boys have been killed so far. Coron, the crazy cult leader, will stop at nothing to bring in his new kingdom. And now he is planning a bombing spectacular across London to celebrate the sacrifice of his final victim: Adam.
Spoiler Alert reviewer: Victoria

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 4
How vivid was the setting? 3
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 3
How well did the book hold your interest? 3
How well did the author's language add to the book? 3
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 4

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 4
How readable was this book? 4
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 2

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 2
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 1
How memorable was this book? 1
How did you feel about the ending? 3
If you did not finish, how did you feel about the beginning?
How creative was this book? 2

Marketing
Rank the cover (only if the final cover version has been released).
How well does the cover match the story? 5
Rank the jacket blurb. 5
Rank the title. 5
How well does the title match the story? 5
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Okay

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: More character development

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Fast paced, scary bland thriller

The Death Cure by James Dashner

Reviewed by Carter F.
Grade 6

Freedom -- that is all Thomas has wanted since the beginning of The Maze Runner series by James Dashner. But when he finally has an opportunity in the third and final novel, The Death Cure, will he take it?

After escaping WICKED headquarters, Thomas and the others flee to the nearby city of Denver. As the group settles in, a suspicious letter arrives inviting the teenagers to join a mysterious group. To everyone's surprise, it is led by someone who was thought to be dead and is planning an uprising against WICKED. The problem is that this government agency is out to capture Thomas, so he must avoid the officials while trying to fight them.

The author did a phenomenal job in creating a dystopian future. His elaborate details make the reader think that such a society could realistically exist. I especially enjoyed Dashner's description of the Bergs, which are the massive airships that are used by the members of WICKED. They sound like futuristic helicopters that could hold a lot more people than our current helicopters.

Like the two previous books in the series, The Death Cure is very suspenseful. Dashner keeps readers turning the pages when he unexpectedly sends Thomas back into the maze. I couldn't believe it! How in the world could this end well?

Followed by prequel The Kill Order

Chomp by Carl Hiaasen

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

Wahoo and his father Mickey are animal wranglers who have a hard enough time keeping each other from getting hurt and putting foot on the table. When a job opportunity with a reality TV show goes South, they have to fight to get out of the Everglades alive.

Wahoo and his father accept an offer to work on a reality TV adventure show, but it is not what they expected. The TV star Derek is a complete fake. When an angry father going after his daughter gets involved, the job Wahoo, Mickey, and Tuna (Wahoo's friend) accepted for some easy money turns into a life or death situation.

Carl' Hiaasen's plot in Chomp is absolutely gripping. The reader never can guess what's going to happen next. The setting is also great.

I would recommend this book to anyone, especially someone who lives in Florida. The author's style is flawless. Every word is carefully chosen and every sentence perfectly executed. Another great one by Carl Hiaasen.

Flush by Carl Hiaasen

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

Noah's dad is a stubborn man. He landed in jail for sinking a casino boat that he believed was dumping waste into the Florida Keys waterways. Now Noah and his friend, Abby, have to prove that the boat is dumping waste into the water and that his Dad isn't wrong. The stakes are high. This is the last straw for Noah's mom, so if he isn't successful his family will probably fall apart.

Noah is an average teenager in the Florida Keys, but his dad is not the average dad. His dad is an environmental enthusiast who ends up in jail for sinking a casino boat that's dumping waste into the ocean. One problem: no proof of any wrongdoing on the casino boat. Noah and Abby make it their mission to prove that the casino is polluting the water. This leads them into making some unlikely friends, many enemies, and buying a lot of food dye.

I thought the setting and plot were outstanding in this book. Hiaasen's plots are consistently impossible to anticipate but are always gripping. He also gives a very clear picture of where Noah is throughout the book.

I would recommend Flush to anyone and everyone, especially a Florida resident. It teaches lessons in perseverance and protecting the environment. It's just another great book by Carl Hiaasen.

Scat by Carl Hiaasen

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

Mrs. Starch is the meanest teacher at Nick's high school. When she goes missing no one really misses her, but she left in extremely mysterious circumstances. Because of this, Nick and his friend Marta can't help but try to find their teacher, but will their decision pay off or will they pay a price instead?

Nick's class goes on a field trip to the Everglades and a wildfire breaks out. When Mrs. Starch the strict biology teacher mysteriously disappears in suspicious circumstances during the fire, Nick and Marta decide to look for her. Their search leads them through the Everglades, new friendships, and a few close encounters with the elusive Florida Panther.

This book is truly outstanding and probably one of the best I have ever read. I think the setting and the plot makes this book so special. Hiaasen always gives a vivid picture of where his characters are. Also, the plot is impossible to predict.

I would suggest Scat to anyone. It teaches an important lesson on respecting the environment. Also, Carl Hiaasen really knows how to write a great book.
"

Uncaged by John Sandford & Michele Cook

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

16-year-old Shay Remby really loves her brother, so much so that she leaves the guaranteed safety of her foster home to go help her slightly autistic brother, Odin, in the mean streets of Los Angeles. The only problem is her brother is a felon, and if she doesn't find him soon he may be dead.

Shay's brother got involved with a radical environmental group that performed a raid on a scientific research facility that was performing experiments on monkeys and other living animals. The radicals thwarted the facilities' experiments by letting the animals out of cages, took video, and stole encrypted hard drives. The group of felons then fled to L.A. Shay follows them hoping to help her brother. It turns out she does more than that with some unlikely partners.

I thought the plot was outstanding. The authors wrote with a clearly thought out plan with many twists and turns. While reading this book you will never know what comes next because of the great plot.

I would recommend Uncaged to anyone because of the plot and the theme. However, this book is a little hard to understand at times, but strong readers shouldn't have a problem.

Foul Trouble by John Feinstein

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

What is it like to be the best high school basketball player in America? The colleges coming after you... The shoe sponsors trying to bypass NCAA laws and illegally sign you...The agents ... And still being in high school...Read this book if these things sound interesting.

This story follows Terrell, the number one basketball recruit in the U.S, and Danny, his friend and teammate. It chronicles their journey through high School, tournaments, girls, and college choices. The book also follows how agents and sports gear companies try to sway the boys to make decisions that favor them.

I thought the plot and author's style were great. The plot is impossible to predict. Your eyes are glued to the page. The author does an outstanding job with making complicated NCAA rules seem relatively simple.

I would recommend Foul Trouble to any sports fan. The plot is very interesting and the author does a great job developing characters. Anyone who is into sports would appreciate this book.

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

Red Queen
Mare Barrow's world is divided by blood -- those with common, Red blood serve the Silver-blooded elite, who are gifted with superhuman abilities. Mare is a Red, scraping by as a thief in a poor, rural village, until a twist of fate throws her in front of the Silver court. Before the king, princes, and all the nobles, she discovers she has an ability of her own. To cover up this impossibility, the king forces her to play the role of a lost Silver princess and betroths her to one of his own sons. As Mare is drawn further into the Silver world, she risks everything and uses her new position to help the Scarlet Guard -- a growing Red rebellion -- even as her heart tugs her in an impossible direction. One wrong move can lead to her death, but in the dangerous game she plays, the only certainty is betrayal.
Spoiler Alert reviewer: Delaney

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 5
How vivid was the setting? 4
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 5
How well did the book hold your interest? 5
How well did the author's language add to the book? 5
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 4

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 4
How readable was this book? 5
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 4

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 5
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 5
How memorable was this book? 5
How did you feel about the ending? 5
If you did not finish, how did you feel about the beginning?
How creative was this book? 5

Marketing
Rank the cover (only if the final cover version has been released). 4
How well does the cover match the story? 5
Rank the jacket blurb. 3
Rank the title. 3
How well does the title match the story? 4
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Amazing

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: I couldn't find anything I disliked.

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Exciting, intriguing, thrilling, suspenseful, memorable

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: Talon by Julie Kagawa

Talon
To the outside world Ember Hill is an ordinary girl, but Ember has a deadly secret. A dragon hiding in human form, she is destined to fight the shadowy Order of St.George, a powerful society of dragonslayers.St. George soldier Garret is determined to kill Ember and her kind. Until her bravery makes him question all he's been taught about dragons.Now a war is coming and Garret and Ember must choose their sides - fight to save their bond or fulfil their fate and destroy one another.

Spoiler Alert reviewer: Kyra

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 5
How vivid was the setting? 4
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 4
How well did the book hold your interest? 3
How well did the author's language add to the book? 2
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 3

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 2
How readable was this book? 4
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 3

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 3
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 2
How memorable was this book? 3
How did you feel about the ending? 5
If you did not finish, how did you feel about the beginning?
How creative was this book? 3

Marketing
Rank the cover (only if the final cover version has been released). 4
How well does the cover match the story? 5
Rank the jacket blurb. 1
Rank the title. 5
How well does the title match the story? 5
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Dragons

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: I feel that the romance of the characters was forced.

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Fascinating, slow/fast/slow, odd

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: Conversion by Katherine Howe

Conversion

When girls start experiencing strange tics and other mysterious symptoms at Colleen's high school, her small town of Danvers, Massachusetts, falls victim to rumors that lead to full-blown panic, and only Colleen connects their fate to the ill-fated Salem Village, where another group of girls suffered from a similarly bizarre epidemic three centuries ago.

Spoiler Alert reviewer: Victoria

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 1
How vivid was the setting? 1
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 1
How well did the book hold your interest? 1
How well did the author's language add to the book? 1
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 1

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 1
How readable was this book? 1
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 1

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 1
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 1
How memorable was this book? 1
How did you feel about the ending? 1
If you did not finish, how did you feel about the beginning?
How creative was this book? 1

Marketing
Rank the cover (only if the final cover version has been released). 2
How well does the cover match the story? 2
Rank the jacket blurb. 3
Rank the title. 3
How well does the title match the story? 2
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Dull

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: No interesting characters, snail-slow plot & everything else

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Boring, not worth a dime

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: Trust Me I'm Lying by Mary Elizabeth Sumner

Trust Me I'm Lying

Having learned to be a master con artist from her father, Julep Dupree pays expenses at her exclusive high school by fixing things for fellow students, but she will need their help when her father disappears.

Spoiler Alert reviewer: Delaney

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 3
How vivid was the setting? 4
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 4
How well did the book hold your interest? 4
How well did the author's language add to the book? 4
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 4

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 4
How readable was this book? 4
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 4

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 4
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 4
How memorable was this book? 4
How did you feel about the ending? 4
If you did not finish, how did you feel about the beginning?
How creative was this book? 3

Marketing
Rank the cover (only if the final cover version has been released). 5
How well does the cover match the story? 5
Rank the jacket blurb. 3
Rank the title. 4
How well does the title match the story? 5
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Thrilling

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: Nothing

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Fast-paced, exciting, snarky, mystery, entertaining

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: Unmarked by Kami Garcia

Unmarked
Sequel to: Unbreakable

Kennedy and companions find themselves in a world where spirits kill, ghosts keep secrets, and a demon walks on Earth. As they learn more, they wonder whether Kennedy is really meant for the Legion.


Spoiler Alert reviewer: Kyra

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 4
How vivid was the setting? 4
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 5
How well did the book hold your interest? 5
How well did the author's language add to the book? 4
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 4

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 5
How readable was this book? 5
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 3

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 5
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 5
How memorable was this book? 5
How did you feel about the ending? 5++
If you did not finish, how did you feel about the beginning?
How creative was this book? 4

Marketing
Rank the cover (only if the final cover version has been released). 3
How well does the cover match the story? 5
Rank the jacket blurb. 4
Rank the title. 4
How well does the title match the story? 5
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Wow

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: Nothing

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Exciting, fast paced, tragic, great

Kitty Hawk by Roland Smith

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

Angela and Q are back again. They are with Boone and his team tracking down the cell on a highly dangerous mission, leading to hopefully the final showdown with the cell.

Q and Angela go with Boone to Kitty Hawk after tracking the cell through the Carolina area. Meanwhile, they learn some interesting things about Boone and his dog, Croc. Malak is with them as well, but will she survive?

I though the setting in this book was better than the setting in the last book in this series, The White House. You will feel as if you are a member of the team. The author allows you to be there with the kids using the setting.

I thought this book was outstanding because of the author's style. He leaves enough to the unknown so that your eyes are glued to the pages. When the final showdown comes, you will probably need a shower from sweating so much, because of the way Smith develops the plot.

The White House by Roland Smith

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

Angela and Q are back. Their parents’ tour is now taking them to Washington DC, and an unexpected stay in the White House. What could go wrong in the most secure building in the world? Ironically, everything.

Angela and Q race through the streets of DC and the White House trying to figure out who is good and bad. Meanwhile, they are trying to figure out more about the mysterious roadie, Boone. They also meet the President and his two children.

I think the plot was very well developed throughout the story. The author keeps you engaged with the conflict. The setting in this book was ok. In some parts of the book it was a little hard to understand, but the quality of the story makes up for it.

The White House was a good book. I would recommend it to anyone who likes adventure books. The author keeps your eyes glued to the page. When physical conflict erupts you will not dare take your eyes of the page.

sequel to Independence Hall

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir (release date April 28, 2015)

Laia is a Scholar living under the iron-fisted rule of the Martial Empire. When her brother is arrested for treason, Laia goes undercover as a slave at the empire's greatest military academy in exchange for assistance from rebel Scholars who claim that they will help to save her brother from execution

Spoiler Alert reviewer: Kyra

1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 5
How vivid was the setting? 5
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 5
How well did the book hold your interest? 5
How well did the author's language add to the book? 5
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 5

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 5
How readable was this book? 5
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 4

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 5
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 5
How memorable was this book? 5
How did you feel about the ending? 5
If you did not finish, how did you feel about the beginning?
How creative was this book? 5

Marketing
Rank the cover (only if the final cover version has been released). 5
How well does the cover match the story? 5
Rank the jacket blurb. 3
Rank the title. 5
How well does the title match the story? 5
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Jaw-dropping

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: Nothing

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Sadness, Love, Sacrifice, Promises, Wow!

Spoiler Alert Mini Review: A Thousand Pieces of You by Claudia Gray

A Thousand Pieces of You by Claudia Gray

When eighteen-year-old Marguerite Caine's father is killed, she must leap into different dimensions and versions of herself to catch her father's killer and avenge his murder.

Spoiler Alert reviewer: Delaney


1=No. Just, no. 2=It's OK. 3=I liked it. 4=I really liked it. 5=It was EPIC!

The Book Itself
How well designed was the plot? 3
How vivid was the setting? 4
How believable were the characters and the dialog? 2
How well did the book hold your interest? 3
How well did the author's language add to the book? 3
How well did the writing match the books intended audience? 4

Worldwide
Rank this book's mass appeal. 4
How readable was this book? 4
How pleasurable will reading this book be to most teens? 4

Personal
How highly would you recommend this book? 3
How likely are you to read something else by this author? 3
How memorable was this book? 3
How did you feel about the ending? 3
If you did not finish, how did you feel about the beginning?
How creative was this book? 3

Marketing
Rank the cover (only if the final cover version has been released). 5
How well does the cover match the story? 5
Rank the jacket blurb. 2
Rank the title. 2
How well does the title match the story? 3
Stopping point in the book? Finished

Tell us what you thought of the book overall:

In one word: Romantic

Tell us what you really did not like about this book: There was a twist too close to the end that I thought ruined the book.

Pick 5 words to describe this book: Adventurous, Enjoyable, Fast-paced, Interesting, Happy

The Scorch Trials by James Dashner

Reviewed by Carter F.
Grade 6

You'd think escaping the life-threatening maze in the first book would mean that the danger is over. You'd be wrong. In The Scorch Trials, Thomas wakes on the first day of his freedom to dreadful news--one of his friends, Teresa has gone missing. And, what's even worse, his group of friends, otherwise known as test subjects, are being examined again. Phase Two will take place in the Scorch. This desert-like location has been damaged severely by solar flares. Just like the first time, the companions are on their own. They must trek across the Scorch in order to get to the safe heaven within two weeks. If not, they're goners. To their surprise, Teresa, the only girl from their group, has been assigned to another group of test subjects competing to get to the desired destination. What really matters, though, is whether the teams can make it out alive.

Thomas and Teresa, the main characters, are relatable because they express emotions that anyone in their improbable situation would be feeling. Although they cannot believe they are being forced into another life-threatening challenge, their will to survive overrides their fear. Thomas must rely on other people that he would not trust outside of the Scorch. I think most readers understand the compromises Thomas must make to get out alive.

The Scorch Trials is a book that readers who enjoy science fiction will not want to stop reading until they have finished. If you enjoyed The Maze Runner, you will love The Scorch Trials because it is equally as suspenseful. Author James Dashner keeps readers interested in the story with surprises in the plot and the developing relationship between Thomas and Teresa. Will the pair remain just friends -- or become something more?

Independence Hall by Roland Smith

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

Q and his mysterious new stepsister, Angela are leaving from San Francisco to tour with their mom and dad, who are the popular music group, Blaze and Roger. Things get very interesting when Angela's birth mother's past comes to haunt them.
Q, Angela, and a weird roadie travel across America with international spies close on their tail. Meanwhile they have to stop their parents from noticing anything funny and cancel the tour. They have to give these spies the slip soon or else.

This book has a thrilling conflict. Roland Smith keeps you turning the pages with anticipation. Every confrontation with the spies is narrated flawlessly.

I would recommend Independence Hall to anyone who enjoys adventure books. The author does a great job developing the plot and describing the setting: two key elements of a good read. It is a great book.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Reviewed by Carter F.
Grade 6

After a while, your imagination plays tricks on you. You think you know which direction is the way out, but do you really? Being stuck in a maze, where everything looks the same for weeks, messes with your mind. This is the predicament in which Thomas finds himself in The Maze Runner.

It begins when Thomas awakens in the lift, and he can only remember his own name. Suddenly, the lift begins to move. When it opens, he is welcomed by a group of boys (Gladers) that aren't too surprised to see him. As the weeks pass and Thomas adjusts to the Glade, he learns that the only way out is through the maze. Everyone is shocked when a girl, the first one ever, arrives in the lift. She delivers a terrifying message that helps one member of the group solve the maze. But the question is whether they can survive the solution.

This book's suspenseful plot, entertaining characters and vivid setting paint an interesting, yet horrifying story in a futuristic world. Imagine being stuck in between walls so high that you know no one can see you or the way out. It's up to you to make the correct choices so you will survive. No pressure, right? There are many twists and turns the reader will not expect. From start to finish, the action never dies down.

I would recommend The Maze Runner to readers who enjoy science fiction books. The author creates a world inside the maze that is entirely believable, even though we know such a place is really just a metaphor for segments of our society who believe they are oppressed. This plot is a familiar one for young readers because it also plays out in The Hunger Games trilogy and the Divergent series. Readers who like those books will like The Maze Runner.

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

District 13... a place no one even knew existed. Now, Katniss, a few tributes, Gale, and what is left of the people of District 12 all live there, and they all have a mission: to overthrow Panem. But will Katniss get onboard with 13's plan or be the rebel she is known to be? Katniss wants to help the war effort against Panem, but she can't do it alone. She is forced to become the mascot of the war effort but with some stipulations. Meanwhile she is fighting with her heart...Peeta or Gale?

I think this books plot was thrilling. I have never read a book with so many twists and turns. The author also does very well to describe the setting. You will feel like you have been to District 13 by the end of the book.

I would recommend Mockingjay to anyone, but be sure that you have read the first two books in the series before this one. The way Suzanne Collins tells the tale of Katniss Everdeen is absolutely thrilling. But readers beware, it might be a bit of a heartbreaker.

Insurgent by Veronica Roth

Reviewed by Katie M.
Grade 8

The book Insurgent by Veronica Roth is a romantic and dramatic novel with a very upbeat plot. It certainly lived up to the high standards Roth created in the first book of the trilogy, Divergent. The plot has created a constant feeling of excitement in the reader.

In Insurgent, Tris, the main girl character, and her boyfriend Tobias, the main boy character, have escaped the confines of the factions. They are constantly running from the Erudite faction leader, Jeanine and have joined the factionless to help kill Jeanine and create a new government. Tobias and his mother, Evelyn unite the factionless to create an army and overthrow Jeanine. Tris, however, is convinced that they should not kill Jeanine.

I personally found Insurgent to be an intense, action-packed book with bits of romance weaved through. I found it hard to put the book down and was surprised when I realized I read half the book in the first day I rented it. I was pleasantly surprised how enjoyable I found the book. This book created an exciting mode inside the reader. Roth used a lot of sensory language which causes you to feel like you are actually in the book. Roth also used first person point of view so you felt as if you were having a conversation with Tris in real life. It was a fantastic novel and I highly recommend it.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J. K. Rowling

Reviewed by Gillen M.
Grade 6

EXPECTO-PATRONUM!!! When Harry and his cousin are attacked by dementors one night, the Order of the Phoenix decides it is time to bring Harry back to the magical world. Harry finds that
not all is calm. Dumbledore has restarted the secret society known as the Order of the Phoenix to fight "he who must not be named." Meanwhile Harry must attend a hearing at the Ministry of Magic for his use of magic in the muggle world. Later when he returns to Hogwarts, Harry finds that the Ministry of Magic has been exercising its control. From appointing a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher to the half dozen "educational decrees," Hogwarts is not what it once was. To deal with the inadequacy of the ministry appointed defense against the dark arts teacher Harry, Ron, and Hermione start Dumbledore's Army, a club designed to teach real defensive magic to anyone (with the exception of the Slytherins) who wants it. But a questionable clue leads Harry into a trap and a battle in the heart of the most secret part of the Ministry of Magic. Will Harry and Sirius survive? Will "He who must not be named" gain a prophecy about Harry? Find out in this explosive novel in the Harry Potter series.

This book's engaging characters, spectacular style and amazing plot ensure that kids of all ages will find this one of the best Harry Potter books yet. Rowling ads engaging twists that nobody would see coming. The end of the story packs a wallop nobody sees coming as well as plenty of action throughout.

I would recommend Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix to lovers of the previous four books in the series as well as lovers of fantasy and action. Although action filled, this book is inappropriate for younger readers. This book would be best for older readers such as fifth and sixth graders and is more violent than the other books.

Zach's Lie by Roland Smith

Reviewed by Jake L.
Grade 8

Do you ever think about what would happen if you had to live a lie? If you had to stop your current life, pick up everything and go live someplace else? This has happened to Zach Granger, and his life depends on it. Zach always thought of his father as a good man--not greedy, not mean, or harsh, but his Dad actually helped smuggle drugs as an airplane pilot. While on a trip to South America, a man approached him about making some easy money smuggling drugs across the border in airplanes. Money was tight, and the temptation overcame him. He was a drug smuggler and everything was going well… until it went completely wrong, and turns Zach's life completely upside down.

The author does a great job of developing the plot and the story. He gives you a very clear understanding of what is happening, but doesn't tell you everything which leaves you hanging on the edge of your seat throughout the book. It is very well written.

I would recommend Zach's Lie to anyone who asked for a book. It has it all: a great plot, humor, irony, and a touch of romance. All these elements combine for a very compelling read.

No More Dead Dogs by Gordon Korman

Reviewed by Gillan M
Grade 6

"Rewrite!" When school football star Wallace Wallace is drafted from football to the school drama clubs's production of "Old Shep, My Pal," due to a rather negative review of the book, nothing goes as planned. Mr. Fogelman intends to convince Wallace that "Old Shep, My Pal" is one of the best books ever written, but instead of rewriting his review, Wallace ends up rewriting most of the play into a modernistic version of the "timeless classic." In attempting to change Wallace's view of the book, Mr. Fogleman ends up mixing up Wallace's whole year. From mopeds to RC cars this will be a play the school won't soon forget!


This book is great because of many things: its amusing plot twists, its interesting characters, and its surprise ending. One thing is for sure, you will be hooked by page two. The plot twists and turns in surprising ways by showing the evolution of the play through the eyes of half of a dozen different people.


I recommend this book to lovers of realistic fiction, humor, and wacky middle school adventures. Further reason to recommend this book lies in the amusing style of the author. He throws in plot twists and unexpected surprises every other chapter. The characters change throughout the story, in some ways evolving with the play as well as the story. NO MORE DEAD DOGS!!!