Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin

Liz is dead. She died from a taxi collision and wakes up on a boat. Her family is not with her. She learns that when she died she got transferred to the world of the dead, aka Elsewhere. She has to live her life in death as she gets over her grief of leaving her family. I wouldn't give away much about this book because this book will keep your hands and eyes stuck to it.
This book has an interesting plot dealing with her life in Elsewhere. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes exotic books about death.

Bookbusters book November 16, 2009

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Graceling is about a girl named Katsa who finds that she has been born with a special Grace - killing. In the land where Katsa lives, those who are Graced are feared and sent to the king to use in his army. Katsa is no different. King Randa sends her, Oll, and Giddon out on missions to kill people in his kingdom. Throughout the book, she meets a Leinid named Prince Greening, or Po, who is also Graced. Katsa decides, with Po's help, that she will no longer listen to Randa. They leave his court together and face many challenges while trying to figure out who had kidnaped a Leinid grandfather. After facing King Leck, Po and Katsa are forced to be separated, even though there is a possibility Po could die. To read more about this great fantasy book, you need to read Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Amy F. BookBusters October Selection

Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer

Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer is a thrilling, exciting book about a girl named Miranda and her family. When a meteor hits the moon, the moon gets closer to the earth in orbit. Everyone thinks it's perfectly fine... until natural disasters occur. First extreme weather tidal waves. Major blackouts. Then volcanic eruptions. And it gets worse. Miranda, her mom, and her brother must try to survive what they think is the end of the world.

I thought this book was very intriguing. It put an interesting twist on the whole concept of the end of the world, also. Therefore, I recommend this book for everyone who reads any genre. I had read it in less than a day and had really never stopped because it was just that interesting. So, I suggest that you pick up this book and start reading!


Tatyana M.

The People of Sparks by Jeanne DuPrau

Lina and Doon have brought the people from Ember out to the surface. There, they live in the city of Sparks. But, it's not very easy. People are starving and laboring through the days. Tension is growing between the different groups. People are breaking in to houses, stealing supplies and vandalizing. Can Lina and Doon find the criminals, and avoid civil war.

This is the sequel to the major motion picture The City of Ember. Kids who love mysteries, science fiction, and survival will be clinging to the pages, never letting go. Appropriate for all ages, this thriller will bring exciting to whole new level.

Hope was Here by Joan Bauer

Hope was Here by Joan Bauer is a page turning book about this girl Hope whose mother left her with her aunt when she was born because her Mom knew that she could not take care of her. Hope and her aunt worked at a diner in New York City when the diner ran out of money then Hope and Addie (her aunt) had to move to Wisconsin to work at a diner there. Hope leaves behind her close friends who don't make it easy for her when she leaves. She and her aunt begin a new life and new adventures in Wisconsin.

This book is a quick read, page turning, and heart warming book. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes realistic fiction, serious but funny books that have to do with leaving home, and people sticking together to get through tough times.

By:Caitlyn Smith

Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen

If you are looking for a good read, funny and dramatic, then I've got the perfect book for you! Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen is a book about a young girl and boy, Julianna and Bryce, and their lives as they grow older. Juli Baker, a young, enthusiastic young girl, develops a crush on her new neighbor, Bryce. However, Bryce does not return his feelings for this goofy girl. As you read, you will follow their successes and failures, love and lust, as the two start to discover themselves and their feelings for each other.

~Taylor N. (Battle of the Books review)

Every Soul a Star by Wendy Mass

Ally, Jack, and Bree. All of these people are going to have a summer they will never forget. On a certain summer day, a solar eclipse will occur in a natural park site which is also Ally's home. Bree finds out that she is moving to the park even though she would MUCH rather go shopping. Jack is very unsocial and is going to the park with his science teacher in place of summer school even though he would much rather be drawing in his room. When they meet together Bree's family brings some unexpected news to Ally that will change her life for forever.

I absolutely love this book! The characters are fun and learn three very different lessons. In this book there is a good balance of humor, seriousness, and star facts. I would recommend this book to everybody, especially people that like Wendy Mass books. If I were you I would check it out ASAP!

Al Capone Does My Shirt by Gennifer Choldenko

Moose Flanagan and his family moved to Alcatraz Island in 1935. Alcatraz was an island that holds the most dangerous criminals like Al Capone. The Flanagans are a family of four: Moose, Natalie (a sixteen year old mentally disabled sister who is thought to be ten), a mom, and a dad. There are other kids on the island, but none of them are eviler than the warden's daughter, Piper. Moose soon becomes knee deep in all of Piper's plans.

This book is funny, melancholy, and family oriented. You will laugh, cry, and feel guilty to all of Moose's stories. This book is historical fiction. It is meant to those who need an easy funny book. Both girls and boys would read this books and savor every page of this marvelous story.

Battle of the Books Members

A Corner of the Universe by Ann M. Martin

Basically, this book is about a small town girl named Hattie. She's used to "normal". She likes to know everything that's going on and only worries if she'll be able to read on her front porch the next day. Because of this, Hattie isn't prepared when her mentally unstable uncle Adam comes to stay for the summer. She comes to learn that there's life beyond her small town of MIllerton and finds out how people can really hide behind their masks.
I cannot begin to explain all the feelings you will have toward this book. In my opinion, anyone would love this. Maybe with an exception of action lovers. At times things move little slowly but then picks up. It really stimulates your thoughts and gets you thinking things like, What if this was me? It's a great reading experience and I would recommend this to anyone and everyone.

Assassin by: Anna Myers

Assassin is a historical fiction story about the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. It's told from the point of view of Bella (a fictional character) and other times it's told from the point of view of the soon-to-be assassin, John Wilkes Booth. Booth was a charming actor at the time, and Bella is an assistant seamstress to Mary Todd Lincoln, the president's wife. How do these characters meet, and what happens when Booth tricks Bella into doing something terrible?

I'm not a fan of historic fiction, but this book was so different. It showed the charming side of Booth, while still showing the terrible crime that he had committed. And the new character in the story, Bella, is an interesting young girl. The author incorporates the historical event of Lincoln's Assassination while still entertaining the reader with an entrancing story.

BoB

Kaleidoscope Eyes by Jen Bryant

Kaleidoscope Eyes by Jen Bryant is about a thirteen year old girl named Lyza who goes on an adventure with 2 of her good friends for lost treasure. While spending the whole Summer sneaking out and taking on the adventure of her great grandfather, you'll never guess what she ends up finding! Can three thirteen-year-olds actually conduct a secret treasure hunt? What will they find? Read the book to find out!!

This book is a extremely good, easy-to- read book. Not only did the cover catch my attention, but I couldn't stop turning the page one after another until I was finished the story. I liked that the book was written in a poem. I would recommend this book to anyone! Jen Bryant also wrote the books ; The Trial ,  Pieces of Georgia , Ringside 1925 ,  Georgia's Bones , Abe's Fish , Rivers Words , and Call me Marianne.

Jenny D. - 8th grade

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

This book is about a girl, Katniss, who has been selected to participate in the Hunger Games. Twenty-four people, a boy and a girl, from each district, are chosen to participate in the Hunger Games. In the Hunger Games, the 24 contestants fight to the death. The last one alive wins.
This was a fast-paced, action packed story. The author includes vivid details which add to the excitement of this book. This book would make a perfect read for anyone of any age.

Ian P.- 8th grader

I Know What You Did Last Summer by Lois Duncan

This book is about four teenagers, Julie, Helen, Ray, and Barry,  and their experience last summer. They are keeping a terrifying and shocking secret.  But, someone knows what their secret is. This person won't stop scaring and stalking them---revenge is the goal.

I liked this book because it was very mysterious and shocking. I'm completely sure that if you like jaw-dropping mysteries that keep you on the edge of your seat then the novel I Know What You Did Last Summer is the book for you! Read this book to discover who is stalking these teenage friends.

Kyla N. - Grade 8

Jack's Run by Roland Smith

When Jack A.K.A.Zack's dad was caught shipping drugs for a cartel(the Spanish
equivalent to the Mafia),their dad had to enter the witness protection program.
Jack and his sister are kidnapped by the cartel's henchmen. The head of the cartel:
Alonzo Anzar is head of the cartel. Jack and his sister are shoved on a plane
heading for Anzar's vineyards. They are held hostage by Alonzo's brother, Raphile.
Jack's dad an ex-Navy SEAL and his friend, an ex-Navy SEAL and a former Cold War
Soviet spy, prepare to rescue the children.

My impression of the book is that it is capable of standing on its own or as an
installment of the series it is a part of. I enjoyed the book and would definitely
recommend it to other 8th graders.

Sean M. - Grade 8

Boy at War by Harry Mazer

This book is about a boy who lives in Honolulu, Hawaii and his best
friend, Davi, is Japanese. His dad is in the Navy and is on the
battleship, the Arizona, on the day Pearl Harbor is bombed by the
Japanese. Adam tries to find his father after the bombing and gets
caught up in the war. Adam is forced into fighting as an actual soldier
and changes over night. After the bombing, Adam thinks Davi might be a
Japanese spy and is very angry with him.
I would give this book an 8 out of 10 because it was a great historical
fiction story, and it helped me get connected with history. I learned a
lot about the bombing of Pearl Harbor; anyone who likes reading about
history would enjoy this book about Adam and his experiences.

Tyler M- 8th grader

Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz

Do you ever dream of becoming a spy? Well, that’s the last thing Alex Rider wants to be. My book is called Stormbreaker, by Anthony Horowitz, a realistic fiction book. It’s about how Alex wakes to find his Uncle Rider dead from a car crash. When Alex investigates, he finds out that his uncle didn’t get into a car crash, someone shot him! But as he tries to find more out, he finds out he uncle was a spy for the M16! That’s like the CIA of Britain. I would love to tell you more, but it would spoil the book for you. I chose to share this book for you because it’s an amazing mystery and I think that many students would enjoy it. Other books in the series are Point Blank, Skeleton Key, and Eagle Strike.

Shane J.- 7th grader

Gossip Girl by Cecily Von Ziegesar

Are you popular? Have you always been popular? Well if you are anything like Blair Waldorf you would have answered yes to these two questions. In this realistic fiction book by Cecily Von Ziegesar Blair is a popular girl in the upscale part of New York City. Blair is in a world inhabited by the cities fabulous crowd, a world of jealousy, betrayal, and popularity. Her life is crashing around her and she can’t get out. I would suggest this book to girls because it is a girly gossip book. Some other books by this author are You Know You Love Me, All I Want Is Everything, and It Girl. It Girl is another series by this author. If you want to know how Blair, a perfect girl in a perfect world, ruined her life I suggest you read Gossip Girl!

Allison C.- 7th grader

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer

No one knows what the outcome will be after a big move. But, for Bella Swan, life has been beyond unpredictable. New Moon by Stephenie Meyer is a continuation of Twilight. After about two short years in Forks, Washington, her life is tossed upside down. The love of her life, Edward Cullen, leaves her to fight for herself. All because of a little paper-cut. But, Edward and his ‘Family’ have a big secret; they have an uncontrollable thirst for blood. After almost a year without Edward, however with the presence of a dangerous best friends and countless near-death experiences, a journey to Italy is made to stop Edward from making a mistake he could never correct. No matter how long he can live.

I chose this book because I wanted to know what happened after Twilight. I highly recommend the whole series (Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn) to anyone who would enjoy a thrilling fantasy, or just wants a good read.

-Felicia B.- 7th grader

A Corner of the Universe by Ann M. Martin

This exciting realistic fiction book is a thriller about a young, eleven -year old girl named Hattie, troubled by her mentally disabled uncle. Later she decides that age doesn’t matter and when life hands her lemons she makes lemonades. Instead of treating Adam like the uncle he could never be, Hattie makes him her best friend. Even when the going gets tough, the two of them go through it together.
If you’re the type of person who enjoys cute, emotional books, then this is a great choice. I chose it because of the last sentence of the back of the book summary. “Hattie will find out how small a small town can be, how big the world outside is, and how far our hearts and minds can go.” After I read that, I felt that I had to know about the rest of the book, and I wasn’t going to stop until I did. This is going to be a book that you just can’t put down until its finished.

Lindsey Manera- 7th grader

Get Real By Betty Hicks

Dez likes grand pianos and elegant food, while her family are infamous slobs. She’s so different from her family that sometimes she thinks she could be adopted. Obviously Dez is very different from her family. When her best friend Jil seeks out to find her birth mother, (she’s adopted), Dez’s world goes upside down. This book is about friendship as much as it is about wanting a parent who is different than your own.
I picked this book because it is funny and inspiring. It’s inspiring because Dez goes after what she wants, and she’s really hard working. When she wanted a piano, she did everything to get it. The ending is very satisfying, and I related to all the characters. Other books by the author are I Smell Like Ham, Busted! and Out Of Order.

Yael F. - 7th grader

Timothy of the Cay by Theodore Taylor

Have you ever seen or read The Cay by Theodore Taylor? If you like this story, you’ll go crazy for Timothy of the Cay, a companion to The Cay also by Theodore Taylor. The author of this book calls it a prequel-sequel, because it tells what happens with Timothy before the original, and how Philip is after the original. This realistic fiction book won’t let you stop reading. It lets you compare and contrast the two as teens. As you read this book, you’ll find many examples as to why they are so alike.

Philip is still blind and has to make some decisions. He’s been scheduled for an appointment that might make his sight come back. He’s very excited because he might have a chance of seeing the cay. His dad rented a boat for the trip, because he was confident. Will he be able to see again? Will he finally be able to see the cay?

Timothy was a very happy teenager. He actually liked someone being the boss of him. Sadly, he was fired from his recent job as cleaning the boats. He didn’t mind this, because he had finally made enough to buy his own boat. He loved sailing, but his boat was wrecked in shallow, rocky water. What is he going to do? You’ll have to read the book to find out what happens to them both.

Joe B. - 7th grader

Hope Was Here by Joan Bauer

Do you know what it’s like to be involved in politics and run a diner? This book is about a girl named Hope. Hope’s mom didn’t want the responsibility of a baby. So, Hope’s aunt, Addie, takes care of her. Hope and Addie move from New York City to a small town in Wisconsin. There, they both work at a local diner. The owner of the diner, G.T, has leukemia. G.T. also has a dream of becoming mayor. So, he runs for mayor. There’s a lot of craziness going on to help G.T. become mayor. Will G.T. survive leukemia, run the diner, and become mayor?
I think Hope Was Here was a great book. There is a lot going on and I wanted to keep reading to see what happens next. I hope that you will enjoy this realistic fiction book as much as I did.

Heather P.- 7th Grader

EVIL STAR by Anthony Horowitz

Do you like fantasy? Well if you do Evil Star is for you. Evil Star is a sequel to
Raven’s Gate. Before reading Evil Star I would recommend Raven’s Gate. A lot of things from the beginning of the book Evil star relate to Raven’s Gate. The main character Matt goes to Peru to find the second gate. The first gate was Raven’s Gate. In Peru Matt meets a 14 year old Peruvian peasant boy named Pedro. In ancient times the Old Ones aimed to destroy the earth but 5 children fought and defeated the Old Ones. Matt & Pedro are both one of the five. So I believe there will be 5 books, a new child joining in each one. So the story continues in NightRise which I still cannot find!

Steven W. 7th grader

Sunrise Over Fallujah by Walter Dean Myers

If you want to know the life of a modern soldier, then read Sunrise Over Fallujah. In Sunrise Over Fallujah, you get to see what Robin Perry goes through in Iraq. Robin, like his uncle, joins the army as a part of the 422nd Civil Affairs unit. Upon arriving in Iraq, Robin meets new friends. When some of his squad mates get killed, he suddenly realizes he’s fighting for his life.

Sunrise Over Fallujah is a great book for anyone who likes war novels. Walter Dean Myers really gives a great perspective on war. You know at all times what Robin thinks, says, and feels.

Collin C.- 7th grade

Wait till’ Helen Comes by Mary Dawning Hahn

Do ghost stories spook you or haunt you in the night? Then this book might not be for you because it is filled with so many constant surprises. You can only assume what will come next. The main character is Molly. Her new little sister doesn’t even like her. Why? Why does she always ignore or try to get Molly in trouble? Why does she hate everyone in the whole family? These are only a few of the questions.

If you want to find out the answers simply read the book I wanted to share this book with you because of the genre: fantasy. But I also liked the fact that it is a mystery. Another book in this series is called: The Jellyfish Season.

Allison D.- 7th grader

Raven’s Gate by Anthony Horowitz

Imagine that you had super powers and you don’t know how to use them… Well Matthew Freeman from London England has to live with that problem. When he gets found guilty for assault and attempted burglary he is shipped to a ranch to live with a foster parent. In this ranch the owner seems nice but she’s really not. There are secrets about his power s and destiny that he doesn’t know. When he is contained in the city and sentenced to death he has to find a way out.
Other books in this series are Evil Star, and Night Rise. This is science fiction and very interesting. Read the book to find secrets and to see if he escapes.

Sean T. - 7th Grader

January 1905 by Katharine Boling

I read the historical fiction book January 1905 by Katharine Boling.

I choose this book because my teacher last year said it would be a good book for people that love historical fiction books. Last year I read about 45 pages then put it down. I decided to pick it up again. This book is about working kids. Back in the 1900’s, the kids had to work as well as the kids. This Pacific family has twin girls. Pauline and Arlene. Each chapter is told from Pauline then Arlene. Pauline, Mother, Father, and Patrick (younger brother) have to work. Arlene can’t because she has a swollen foot and has trouble walking. She has to cook and clean the house.
Read the book to find out whether she has to work as a coal miner, mill girl, or if she stays at home.

Maisie B. – 7th grader

Heat by Mike Lupica

What if you were told that you couldn’t play your favorite sport in the world anymore? If you would feel bad, tell that to Michael Arroyo, the main character. Some coaches think Michael is 13 or older, which means he’s not allowed to play in his league. But Michael can’t prove anything, he has lost his birth certificate and his parents aren’t around to help him find it.
Read this exciting sports fiction book to find out what happens. I think that overall, the book was pretty good. People who would like this book are sports fans and Mike Lupica fans. Other books by Mike Lupica are Travel Team and Comeback Kids.

Ryan F.- 7th Grader

Dead Connection by Charlie Price

Do the dead cry? Do they ache in sorrow? Do they weep in helpless frustration? You know they do. In the book, Dead Connection by, Charlie Price, the main character Murray talks to the dead. One day when Murray was at the cemetery, talking to one of his closest/dead friends, Dearly Beloved, Murray hears a new voice. He then decides to question Pearl (the grounds keeper’s daughter) to see if anyone was buried recently hoping that would explain the voice he heard. When Murray finds the answer to be no, Pearl and Murray investigate further about the new voice. The genre is mystery.

I chose to share this book because I enjoyed it and I think you will, too. If you decide to read Dead Connection and liked it, you may enjoy reading other mysteries like As Simple As Snow by, Gregory Galloway.

Margaret C. - 7th grader

Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul II by various authors

Do you ever get bored of a book with 1,000 pages, and it’s boring? Also one that you have to finish for a book report for school. Well, if all those problems apply to you then get up and go out and buy the book Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul II. I would probably classify this book under non-fiction, in the selection of genres. But the other good thing about this book is that, there are various authors. So you don’t have to listen to the same writing technique that the author uses in every sentence! There’s like 2, 5, or maybe, 10! So why don’t you just get and go get the book already?

Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul II is exactly 101 2-4 page long stories about all kinds of topics! There is one about young relationships, one about families, some about school problems. Most of the activities a normal 13 year old should do!

Probably my favorite “short story” in Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul II is called, Why Guys Like Girls. Kim K wrote that story. Obviously from the title of the story, you should know that this is about all the reasons guys like girls. If you like this topic, go out already and go buy this book! What are you waiting for?! GO!

Tyler M. - 7th grader

A Matter of Trust by Anne Schraff

Do you enjoy realistic fiction with a little mystery at the end? If so a Matter of Trust by Anne Schraff is the book for you. This book is a part of the Buford’s High Series. My book is about a boy named Hakeem and a girl named Darcy. Darcy tries to convince Hakeem that he should do the talent show because he is a good singer and guitar player. When Hakeem gets embarrassed he stutters. When Hakeem started stuttering a boy named Roylin would make fun of him every time he saw Hakeem. Making fun of Hakeem came back to haunt Roylin when he went to Tarah’s party. Roylin got shot at the party by a drive by. Does Roylin live or die? You have to read a Matter of Trust by Anne Schraff to find out.

Ashley G - 7th grade

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

A charging moose, giant tornados, and a plane crash. All things that Brian will try to survive while he is stranded in the Canadian wilderness with a hatchet from his mom.
Brian is a 13-year-old boy and was on his way to visit his dad in the Canadian oil fields when the single engine plane crashed as the pilot had a heart attack. Now Brian will have to learn to catch food and find water. He will have to learn to share berries with bears and use fool birds and fish for food.

This book is a realistic fiction about survival, and I recommend this book for boys more than girls, but it’s a very good book.

Eddie H. 7th grader

Do you like survival stories? What about realistic fiction stories? Well if you do this is a book for you. It’s called Hatchet, by Gary Paulsen. It is awesome. It’s filled with action packed fun. And every chapter ends with a cliffhanger. Hatchet is about this boy named Brian Robeson who is stranded on an island in the middle of nowhere due to a plane crash. He has to survive until help shows up and he has to live through tornadoes, wolves, and ravenous mosquitoes, also attacking moose. These are only a few of the hardships he has to live through. You’ll just have to read the book and find out what happens to Brian. Does he live… Or does he die?


Devin V - 7th grader

Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophia Kinsella

This amazing book that I will be sharing is realistic fiction and is a romantic comedy and is about a young woman named Rebecca Bloomwood who is obviously a shopaholic. She feels that shopping with a magic card (Visa credit card) is great because there are only 3 simple steps into getting the cutest Versace fur coat out the store door. You admire it, swipe it, and take it. But little does Rebecca know that to every price there is a bill.

Rebecca works for FT (financial times) as a financial advisor for people who have money managing problems and have an addiction to buying. Ironic right because Rebecca can’t even mange the amount of debt and credit card bills spilling out her mailbox. Until she gets a wake up call “ THE IRS” Rebecca’s worst fear and meanest enemies. And here is a little riddle for you to solve. What doesn’t come in a package or price and will always love you not matter what?

To find out the answer to this funny riddle and to join Rebecca on the shopping spree journey of a lifetime go to you local library and check it out. Or for any of you movie lovers it will be coming out in theaters February 13th.

Amanda A.- 7th grader

The Billboard Illustrated Encyclopedia of Music by George Martin

Do you like Pop, Jazz, Rock N Roll, Rap, or R&B? Than The Billboard Illustrated Encyclopedia of music is for you. You can rock out with awesome guitar rifts and drum solos by some of the most famous bands of the old millenium. You can rock out with Pink Floyd, Aerosmith, and Led Zeppelin. You can sing with Shakira and Britney Spears and many more artists.

This book consists of artists from the late 30’s to the early 2000’s. So if you enjoy rocking out to your favorite guitar riff, then the Billboard Illustrated Encyclopedia of Music is for you.

By Michael M. - 7th grader

Do Not Pass Go by Kirkpatrick Hill

Have you or anyone you know been thrown in jail? That’s what happens to a kid named Deet in the realistic fiction book called Do Not Pass Go by Kirkpatrick Hill. Deet’s dad has to go to jail for using drugs. Now Deet has to take over the responsibilities for his dad, and he has a lot to do because he only has his mom. This book mostly is about Deet's life and what he has to overcome with only one parent
I chose this book because a friend told me about it and the cover looked good. It’s good its filled with a lot of twists. The end of chapters always leaves you hanging and it has an unpredictable ending. Some other books by this author are Tough Boy and Sister and also Winter Camp. I enjoyed this book so you will too.

by Seth E. - 7th Grader

Wolf-Speaker by Tamora Pierce

I read Wolf-speaker by Tamora Pierce, and it’s a fantasy book. In the book, there is a valley of wolves living in peace. But suddenly, the humans are tearing down their forest with their bulldozers. Now they call a girl named Daine to help the wolves valley and the forest before it is too late. So Daine is going to need all her powers to do it.

I chose this book because I like to read about talking animals. If you love wolves or talking animals, then you should read this. Wolf-Speaker is a great fantasy book. It’s exciting and has action.

Kyree Mason- 7th grader

Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea by Jules Verne

Imagine being a prisoner of war and travel through the depths of the sea. Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea is a great novel for science fiction readers. Other books by Jules Verne are A Journey to the Center of the Earth and Around the World In 80 Days. In the story, a well-known English professor boards a ship in New York to hunt down a monster lurking in the Atlantic Ocean. When the ship locates and fire at the monster, the professor with two crewmembers are thrown overboard and captured by a submarine, which happens to be the monster. In charge of the submarine is the eccentric Captain Nemo who keeps the three captives to travel across the sea. The journey goes to places inhabited areas such as the South Pole and the fabled Atlantis. Will the captives be able to escape or travel the seas for life?

Matthew C.- 7th grader

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Do you like Greek mythology? If so, this is the series for YOU! If not, this book will, guaranteed, change the way you look at Olympus! This book is called The Lightning Thief, and it’s a fantasy fiction.

This book is about a boy named Percy Jackson realizing he’s a halfblood, which means he’s half human’ half god, which is cool in a way but the chance to kill you comes quite often! Zeus’s lightning bolt is missing and they only have ONE suspect……… and it’s Percy! Now he must get, no, FIND Zeus’s lightning bolt and return it to the 600th floor of the empire state building before the summer solstice, which means he only has 10 days! If you want to know if Percy gets the lightning bolt or not you’ll have to read the book for yourself!

This is a series and the first book is The Lightning Thief! The second, The Sea Of Monsters! The third, The Titan’s Curse! And the forth, The Battle Of The Labyrinth! The last book comes out May 6th!

My advice is not to rush the series because it is so amazing I read four one hundred page books in a month and I’m not the kind of person that said that I liked to read, but thanks to this series, I can say that now! I think it’s stupid to torture yourself waiting for the last book to come out, because that’s how good the series is, when you can slow down the process by reading less.

Brandon H. - 7th grader

Lush by Natasha Friend

Did you ever feel like you couldn’t trust your own father? Samantha feels this way. The book Lush is about a girl named Samantha who just wants her dad to stop drinking alcohol. Samantha writes letters to this girl in the library who she doesn’t know because she thinks she can help her out with the problems of her dad and all. Samantha one day realizes it’s not that girl it’s someone else. Samantha has her best friends she can’t live without, but they don’t know about her dad. The only person that does is Charlie Parker, Samantha’s old friend. There is also someone Samantha likes named Drew at the library. Drew changes her whole world. You’ll have to read what happens with that.

I really enjoyed this book. I think it’s a fun book. This book is realistic fiction. I think mostly girls would enjoy it. This book makes you want to keep reading because you want to find out what happens with Samantha’s dad, if he ever stops drinking alcohol. I am currently reading the 3rd book in the series called Bounce. It’s really good so far. I never got to read the 1st book in the series Perfect, but I bet it is as good as the others. You don’t have to read the series in order because each book deals with a new character and a new story.

Sarah K. - 7th grade

Diary Of A Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

Could you imagine being an undersized weakling sharing the hallway with kids that are taller, meaner, and already shaving? Greg Heffley is that undersized weakling who is entering his first year of middle school in the book Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney. The genre of this book is realistic fiction. Greg faces a series of events throughout the school year, while recording them in his diary. Greg faces ghese events with his best friend and sidekick, Rowley, most of the time. Greg tries to take advantage of Rowley’s popularity and starts a series of events that tests their friendship in a hilarious way.

This book would appeal to boys and girls, and even adults. This book is filled with laughter on every page and I think you should read this.

Mike R. -7th Grader

Lost and Found by Anne Schraff

Have you ever been so upset that you wanted to run away from home? Well in this book Lost and Found that’s how Darcy’s sister Jamee feels. They have both been going through some rough times. Darcy and Jamee’s dad left them when Jamee was only eight years old. Then something suspicious was going on. An old man in a silver Toyota was following Darcy everywhere she went. Jamee just couldn’t take being at home anymore. She told mom and Darcy she was going to her friend’s house. Darcy called Jamee’s friends house to see how everything was going. Jamee wasn’t there and she wasn’t supposed to be either. Now the hunt began.
If you would like to find out where Jamee is you must read this book. It is written by Anne Schraff. Another book written by this author is A Matter of Trust and the genre is realistic fiction. In this book you didn’t know what to expect next.

Ashley M.- 7th grader

Don’t You Dare Read This Mrs. Dumphrey by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Hi, my name is Tish. I have no friends, no family, just my little brother and me. Everyday I strive for every penny to get by our struggles. My mom doesn’t love me, and my dad hurts us in ways you couldn’t bare. Every week I write a journal to my Language Arts teacher, Ms Dunphrey. The only way I get by these days are writing to her. I mean she can’t even read them, so why not? These days all I hope is that my brother and I survive, even if we have nothing to live for.

This is how Tish felt about everything in her life. The genre is realistic fiction. The book, Don’t you Dare Read This Mrs. Dunphrey, is written by Margaret Peterson Haddix. I chose this book because my friend loved it and I thought I would too. Reading this book felt like you were actually there. My overall my experiences with this book have been great.

Casey B. - 7th Grader

True Talents by David Lubar

If you enjoy fast-paced science fiction, then True Talents by David Lubar is definitely worth a look. The sequel to the immensely popular novel Hidden Talents is just as good as its predecessor if not better. The book starts out through Trash’s point of view. The government has found out about Trash’s talent and wants to use him as a super weapon. When Trash escapes their clutches, he realizes there is only one group of friends that can be trusted: the boys from Edgeview Alternative School. Trash eventually meets up with his friends and they work together to bring down the people responsible for this conspiracy.
Whether you enjoyed Hidden Talents or just want a fast-paced science fiction book, I highly recommend True Talents By David Lubar.


John S.- Grade 7

Stop Pretending: What Happened When My Sister Went Crazy by Sonya Sones

Have you ever been scared? Ever wonder how this happened? Well I read a book called Stop Pretending: What Happened When My Sister Went Crazy by Sonya Sones. In my book it’s about a girl and her family. The little girl Cookie has a sister who has gone crazy. She wants to help her but she doesn’t know how. Cookie tells her friends about her sister and they swore they wouldn’t tell or make fun. When she looked inside the note, Cookie was mad at her friends. It was a picture of a crazy person saying coocoocoocoo. Cookie went home and they parents said they had taken her to an asylum. After they had told her that they’ve been visiting her for two hours everyday. To see what happens to her and Cookies family you’ll have to read the book to find out.

I chose this book because my friend recommended it to me and I finished it in a day. It was very good. It was happy and sad but very good.

by Savannah F. - 7th grader

Coraline by Neil Gaiman

Traveling in a world of evil, with creatures beyond your imagination, Coraline, by Neil Gaiman, is a book that will twist your mind into thinking that she is good. The genre of the book is fantasy. This book would appeal to anyone looking for a good fantasy book.

Coraline is about 9 or 10 years old when she finds the key to the door. She that I am relating to is Coraline’s other mother. She turns out good, but you better think twice because she then turns evil. Now that Coraline is trapped in her “other world” she can’t get out! Will Coraline ever find a way out? Or will she be trapped forever?


Do you want a book that goes through different worlds in your own house? Well, in my book Coraline, she steps through a door to fine her self in another similar world as hers. Things seem marvelous, but there’s another mother and another father. They want her to be theirs forever. They want to change her and never let her go. Coraline will have to fight with all her wit and courage if she is to save herself and return to her own life.

Angelique P. 7th Grader

Totally Joe by James Howe

This book is about a gay boy named Joe Bunch. Joe's Aunt Pam lives with him and she knows that Joe is gay, so she helps him with his problem. She tells him to be who he is and not anyone else. Joe has a group of friends and they call themselves the Gang of Five because they all get teased at school. Their names are Bobby Goodspeed, Addie Carle, and Skeezie Tookis. Joe has a crush on a boy named Colin, but Joe knows that Colin isn't gay like Joe so it would never happen, but as the book goes on you will learn something about Colin that you would'nt suspect.
I loved this book because it shows what good friends do for eachother and i like the author because he writes about the gay people and what they go through because James Howe is gay. i recomend everybody to read it. It's an easy read and really good!

Kailyn V. - 7th grader

SweetHearts by Sara Zarr

It all started out in lower elementary school. Jennifer Harris had no friends, everyone makes fun of her, her parents are divorce, she lives with her mom who is never home, and she is overweight. One day at school Jennifer finally got the courage to go up to a boy, Cameron Quick, and ask him to join her club. Cameron also has no friends and his family is a little messed up too. They instantly became best friends. One day it was Jennifer’s birthday and Cameron told her to come over because he made her something. Jennifer wasn’t allowed over his house and she didn’t like going there anyway. When she got there she didn’t feel comfortable being there so she tried to get away. But just when she tried to leave Cameron’s dad was right behind her. Something happened that day that she could never forget. The next day at school Cameron wasn’t there and the other kids told Jennifer that he died. She hasn’t seen him since. Years past she is now a senior at high school and she lost weight, got a boy friend, and became popular. Her mom got remarried, they had more money, and her name changed to Jenna Vaugh. It was her birthday again and she got a letter in the mail from Cameron Quick.

This realistic-fiction book is now one of my favorite books! I think mostly girls would like this book. Once you start reading this book you won’t want to put it down.

Andrea P.- 7th grade