Reed Reads Book Reviews

The Only Ones by Aaron Starmer

2012-01-21T15:14:00.000-08:00

This book is weird. Weird in the most literary way. Which makes this book not for everyone. This is a book for readers that love post-apocolyptic science fiction. A book for readers that love the unpredictable. A book for readers that constantly ask themselves questions and make predictions as the story turns and twists in a non-linear way. A book for readers that appreciate beautifully written and lyrical story telling. Definitely a book for mature readers...
Marvin Maple has spent his entire life with his father isolated on an island offshore. During the winter, he and his father build a machine, for which Marvin does not know its purpose. During the summer, the island is a retreat for vacationers that his father avoids. When the machine is almost complete his father must go ashore for the last part. Marvin's father never returns, and neither do the vacationers. For two years Marvin is alone raiding homes for their food and their books, as Marvin reads voraciously to learn about the world. Marvin finally decides he must go ashore. When he arrives, he finds a world that is completely devoid of people. As he wanders inland, he at last discovers another young boy who directs him to a town named Xibala, where 40 children have created a functioning society. As Martin acclimates to this new world, he becomes convinced that the machine his father built has the answers. As the story moves forward, there are answers...just not the answers you would expect.
Read Reads Score 4.5

Best Books 2011

2012-01-01T19:10:00.000-08:00

At the end of the year we all tend to reflect on the past year. As I am no different, below are what I would consider my favorite reads of 2011. These are books I read in 2011, not necessarily those that were published in 2011. You can read the full reviews by clicking on the title. While not all rated a 5, each one has some sort of emotional attachment for me...

I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak

Posted February 20, 2011

A blend of YA realistic, a touch of fantasy, and a heart warming story about a teenage cab driver that seems to have lost his way, who is "enlisted" to do good deeds for people in need. Sounds a bit dweeby, but for me this was a box of Kleenex.

Pathfinder by Orson Scott Card

Posted May 6, 2011

The length, the complexity, the fusion of science fiction and fantasy was captivating. Don't let the length turn you off, it will go quickly.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Posted June 30, 2011

An outstanding science fiction thriller in the vein of The Hunger Games.

Okay for Now by Gary Schmidt

Posted August 2, 2011

Maybe because the time period is the 60's/70's (my childhood), maybe because its about a boy who is able to move beyond his abusive father, or maybe because the writing is so perfect, I absolutely loved this book. I wish I had an easier time of it when I try to sell the book to my students.

Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi

Posted August 30, 2011

An excellent dystopian science fiction novel. Well developed characters within a detailed and textured world, with plenty of action.

Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick

Posted October 2, 2011
Just as brilliant as Hugo Cabret, but uses the format ingeniously to explore two story lines. The book is ultimately about the strength of family and overcoming adversity which always pull me in.

Fighting Ruben Wolfe by Markus Zusak

Posted October 19, 2011

After The Book Thief and I Am the Messenger, Zusak is clearly one of my favorite authors. This was his first book released in the U.S. Some of the themes are a precursor to I Am the Messenger. A story about working class teenage brothers, seen as losers, but have big hearts for each other and their family. I am particularly impressed by how their parents are very real and respected by the main characters rather than being portrayed as idiots that are oblivious, or abusive.

Brain Jack by Brian Falkner

Posted November 20, 2011
This one has grown on me. An excellent techno, sci-fi thriller, that is plausible, and cautionary.

The Project by Brian Falkner

2011-12-31T10:01:00.000-08:00

In Iowa City, there isn't much to do. Luke and Tommy pull a prank, defacing their school's founder's statue. Luke gets caught, and makes a deal with his school's vice principal and his English teacher. He doesn't want to read Last of the Mohicans, as he feels it is the most boring book ever written. The deal is a summer project; to either prove Mohicans is the most boring book, or through research prove which book is the most boring ever written. In his research Luke finds out that the most boring book published is Leonardo's River, written in the 1800's. There was only one published, has been missing for years, and is worth millions. Floods rise in Iowa, leading Luke and Tommy to help the university library save thousands of rare books, stored in the basement, from the flooding. Luke comes across Leonardo's River, and convinces Tommy that they need to steal it. The adventure that follows is something Luke and Tommy never could have imagined, and comes nothing close to boring.
Falkner spends some good time setting up the plot, trying to make this fantastic adventure somewhat plausible, but there is little character development for Luke or Tommy. Given the audience, it's of little consequence as the reader seeking adventure will be drawn into it.
Reed Reads Score: 3

Legend by Marie Lu

2011-12-26T13:35:00.000-08:00

If your are a fan of dystopian novels, Legend will grab you from the beginning. While the plot becomes somewhat predictable, Marie Lu sets up a believable future dystopian Los Angeles. The United States has split into two warring factions; the western portion, The Republic, of which Los Angeles is central, and the eastern portion, The Colonies. The book is told in two voices in alternating chapters. Day is a fifteen year old boy who is a sly criminal, wanted by the Republic. Day is smart, athletic, beyond his years, and steals to help support the poor from his sector of the city. The second voice, June, is a fifteen year old aristocrat girl, who is a prodigy of intelligence, physical ability, and quick rising agent for The Republic. Day is motivated by his sick younger brother Eden, who has recently contracted the plague, for whom Day is seeking the cure, usually only available to the very wealthy. June is motivated by the murder of her brother Matias, a soldier killed by a young boy trying to steal medicine to cure the plague from a Republic hospital. You get the picture....
Marie Lu does a good job in the first half developing the setting and her characters. Most of the action takes place in the second half, where there are a few unexpected plot twists. I read through this one rather quickly. It is a perfect set up for sequels, but is satisfying on its own. Of course, a movie is in the works.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Underdogs by Markus Zusak

2011-12-22T07:52:00.000-08:00

Underdogs is a trilogy of Zusak's first three novels; The Underdog, Fighting Ruben Wolfe, and Getting the Girl. I read Fighting Ruben Wolfe first, whose review is below. The three books have so successfully been blended in my mind that I can't differentiate them, so this review covers all three. This is a story about seventeen-year-old Cameron Wolfe, an insecure, seemingly lost soul that beautifully emerges and finds himself. He lives in the shadow of his oldest brother Steve and older brother Ruben. Steve is a perfectionist that seems to have it all together; looks, athleticism, and a great job. Ruben is a fighter, both literally and figuratively, with strapping good looks that always gets the girls. Cameron has a deep affection for his brothers as well as for his sister Sarah, and his parents, for whom he also has tremendous respect. Living in a blue collar, working neighborhood, Cameron and Ruben are looked upon as slackers. Their reality is one of fighting for respect, and finding their way. Told in the first person by Cameron, Zusak's writing style emerges. While not as quite developed as his later novels, the poetic, short sentences that bring out the deep emotions and angst of a seventeen year old boy, bring depth to the novels. The book is for more mature readers who will appreciate these character driven stories.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Cabin Fever (Diary of a Wimpy Kid #6) by Jeff Kinney

2011-11-27T09:45:00.000-08:00

I read and reviewed the first of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series in April 2009. You can read that review and plug it in here. The book is a quick read both literally and figuratively into the mind of a middle school boy. Greg Heffly's journal is funny and REAL. I enjoyed every tangent he goes off on, and could relate to his feelings of frustration with friends and family, the feelings of isolation when he gets into trouble, and his constant fear of being apprehended by the police when he gets into BIG trouble. Jeff Kinney just seems to get it. And while he thanks teachers and librarians for putting his books in the hands of readers, I'd like to thank Mr. Kinney for writing books that are so easy to put in the hands of readers, especially boys that are often reluctant to read anything. This book is for them, and for anyone else that wants to read just for the pleasure and humor of it.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Brain Jack by Brian Falkner

2011-11-20T09:58:00.000-08:00

Put your headsets on and get ready to go...
Brain Jack is a sci-fi thriller set in the near future. A future where rather than keyboards and trackpads, a computer user simply places a neuro-headset on, and let their brain control their computer. Computer hack Sam Wilson wants in on the new craze, so he hacks into the country's largest telecommunications company to have a pair sent to him for free. He has no understanding of the sequence of events he has just set in motion. Sam will soon realize that rather than you controlling the computer, the computer will control you. The government has been watching, a government that has become even more paranoid since Las Vegas was nuked by a terrorist. The government wants Sam in the worst possible way; not for what he has done, but for what he can do.
As a sci-fi fan this was a great read. Lots of techno babble, action scenes and some unexpected twists. For you non-computer nerds, don't let the technical language scare you off. Once the action goes into full gear, it pretty much dissipates....
Read Reads Score: 4

The Death Cure by James Dashner

2011-10-26T20:18:00.000-07:00

Thomas has been reunited with his friends and are awaiting WICKED's promised cure to the Flare, the virus threatening to eliminate the human race by reducing them to psychotic, cannibalistic animals. Can WICKED be trusted? Is their true motivation to save mankind? The Death Cure comes full circle in this conclusion to The Maze Runner trilogy. Thomas again comes up against unforeseen road blocks, fights and death. He must make the ultimate choice to save mankind, or save himself and those that he has created strong bonds with.
Clearly The Maze Runner, is the strongest of the three books, but if you enjoy a lot of action, and one fight after another, The Death Cure will not disappoint. Personally I wanted more than action out of this book. Each fighting sequence stops the progression of the story, and does little to provide insight or meaning to the characters.
Reed Reads Score: 3

Fighting Ruben Wolfe by Markus Zusak

2011-10-19T19:11:00.000-07:00

Cameron and Ruben Wolfe see despair and little hope in their Australian working class home; their father out of work, mother doing domestic labor, and their sister getting a reputation for "getting around." The boys themselves are not held in high esteem, hanging out at dog races, and sparing in the back yard, each wearing a single boxing glove. At school, a bloke makes a comment about their sister, and Ruben beats him to a pulp. Word gets around, and when arriving home from school, the boys are greeted by a tough-guy with an offer: come and fight in an illegal boxing syndicate and make some money. Ruben is wanted for his fighting ability, and Cameron, because he will illicit sympathy tips for his inability to fight. Both sign on, and "Fighting Ruben Wolfe" takes on a double meaning....
This is far more than a story about brothers who box. This a story about brothers with a strong bond, and deep affection for each other and their family. The writing is simple, street-wise, and poetic. This book is the second of a trilogy, but Markus Zusak's (The Book Thief) first book to be released in the U.S. You can now find the entire trilogy published as one title called Underdogs, also available in the Reed library. This is an outstanding read.
Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick

2011-10-02T18:36:00.000-07:00

From the author of The Invention of Hugo Cabret comes a new novel, that from the moment you open the cover, you know that this is something very special. While using the same illustrative technique as Cabret, Wonderstruck is different because it uses the illustrations to tell one story, and the text another. The pictures tell the story of Rose Kincaid, a young girl growing up in 1927, Hoboken, New Jersey. She is a lonely girl, who seems to be obsessed with a movie star of the period. The reader quickly learns that she is deaf, hates her tutor, and escapes from home by her bedroom window. The text tells the story of Ben Wilson a young boy growing up in 1977, Gunflint Lake, Minnesota. His mother, the town librarian, has recently passed away, and with no knowledge of his father, is staying nearby with his aunt. He has avoided going back home, but a light in his mother's house draws him back in. Here, as he reminisces in his mother's room, he discovers clues about his father, leading him to New York City to find him. The journey causes Ben to discover what friends and family really mean, and how intertwined our lives can be.
Reed Reads Score: 5

No Passengers Beyond this Point by Gennifer Choldenko

2011-09-25T12:05:00.000-07:00

The Thompkins kids, India, Finn and Mouse, have been placed on a plane by their mother, as their home has been repossessed, and they will stay with their Uncle Red in Denver, as their mother finishes teaching her classes in California. Fourteen year old India is gorgeous and typically self-absorbed and influenced by her friends. Finn, the middle child, is cursed with constant worry, and takes his responsibility seriously. Mouse, the youngest, is bright beyond her years, scientific and questioning, supported by her invisible friend, Bing.
As the plane experiences severe turbulence, the plane lands, the children disembark, and find themselves in a strange world called Falling Bird. "No, Toto, this isn't Kansas," as this Oz like world provides them with everything they wished for, except for the one thing they need; each other. As the people of Falling Bird try to tempt and lure them to earning citizen status and a life without conflict or worry, each child eventually realizes that they need family more than anything, and attempt to escape this wacky, illogical world. A fun, but predictable read.
Reed Reads Score: 3.5

Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi

2011-08-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

In the near future, off the Gulf coast, Seventeen year old Nailer is part of a light crew whose mission is to strip old oil tankers of their valuable copper wire. Life is bitterly cruel, with little to live on and survival is dependent upon your personal will, wits and strength. Nailer's father is a sadistic drug user who is heartless and murders at whim. Nailer almost loses his life, when a crew mate abandons him after he falls in a pool of oil. Nailer faces another near death experience when a hurricane hits, and he decides to put his own life in danger to save his father. Following the hurricane, he discovers a ship wrecked cruiser, which has the promise to make him wealthy. While scavenging on board, he discovers the body of a teen-aged girl. Ready to cut off her fingers to take the gold surrounding them, he discovers she is alive. Torn if he should kill her, and take the bounty surrounding him, or save her, Nailer flashes on his own brush with death, and decides to spare her. He learns that the girl, Nita, is the daughter of a wealthy shipping company owner, and is being pursued by enemies of her father. The unlikely pair...a dirt poor crew member, and a wealthy "swank" form a relationship that is unlikely, yet compelling as they must escape their pursuers...Nailer's father and the enemies of Nita, who want her as a pawn to gain control of her father's wealth. A fascinating read, combining a violent dystopian world, with the strength and importance of trusting relationships.
Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt

2011-08-02T16:26:00.000-07:00

You may remember Doug Swieteck from Gary Schmidt's Wednesday Wars. Doug is now the main character, in another warm Schmidt novel that takes place in the 70's. Doug is angry, and has good reason to be, with an abusive father, a cruel brother, and forced to move from Long Island to a small town in upstate New York as he enters the eighth grade. He hates his new town, he hates his new school, but finds solace when he visits the library where he discovers a book by James Audobon, and his beautiful illustrations of birds. The librarian, Mr. Powell, takes the time to teach Doug how to draw like Audobon. Doug is able to make parallels from what he sees in the drawings to his own life, which creates the organization for the book (each chapter is named and illustrated by one of the drawings from the book). Told in Doug's voice, you meet Lil Spicer whose friendship with Doug allows him to work for her father's grocery store, making grocery deliveries to people in the town, some of whom Doug gets close to. You will be angered and frustrated with Doug's father, his brother, Principal Peattie, and Coach Reed, but be uplifted by the others that support Doug in overcoming the adversity he faces. This book is touching, and will bring tears from the hurt Doug must confront, and joy from the support of those that care for him.
Read Reeds Score: 5

The Scorch Trials by James Dashner

2011-07-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

In the second installment of The Maze Runner trilogy, Thomas and the surviving Gladers, must now endure an Earth scorched by solar flares and ravaged by the Flare; an epidemic, causing insanity. Now infected by the virus, Thomas and the Gladers are promised a cure, but only if they survive a trek across a landscape ravaged by scorching heat, unpredictable weather and populated by Cranks, people infected by the virus, and whose insanity causes them to behave in unpredictable ways. Thomas and Theresa, the girl with whom he has telepathic communication, are separated and Thomas must find her, before time runs out and before he reaches the destination that WICKED has promised will provide them passage to the Flare's cure.

The Scorch Trials is clearly the "middle book" of the trilogy...it moves the story along, none of the questions are answered, and many new questions come into play. Why was there a parallel maze, populated by girls and one boy? Why has Teresa disappeared and seemingly become the enemy of the boys? Why is WICKED investing so much in this experiment? The answers to these and many other questions lie in the third and final installment. In the meantime, the Scorch Trials leave the reader with no resolution, and a somewhat ungratifying reading experience. I compare this to Catching Fire, the second installment of The Hunger Games trilogy...it just leaves you still hungry, wanting more.
Reed Reads Score: 3.5

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

2011-06-30T21:57:00.000-07:00

Thomas can only remember his name. He finds himself alone in an elevator, and then greeted by a group of boys. Thomas must acclimate himself to the Glade; a community closed off by walls and inhabited by a group of 60 boys. The boys have created their own society, where each has a specific role for survival; farmer, butcher, cook. The most honored role is that of maze runner, for outside the walls lies a labyrinth which maze runners have attempted to document to figure out an escape. The problem is that the walls move. The walls surrounding the Glade close every evening to protect the 'Gladers' from the horrible beasts that lurk outside at night. Thomas makes a connection with another recent arrival, Chuck. He also has a connection with Theresa, a girl that appears in a coma, with a note revealing that things are going to change. We learn, as Thomas learns, about the boys of the Glade, how their society works, and what Thomas' real purpose is.

If you enjoyed Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games, though not as strong, you will most likely enjoy The Maze Runner for its mystery, adventure, and the will to survive. There are no real answers in this first of a trilogy.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Morpheus Road: The Black by D.J. MacHale

2011-06-02T15:44:00.000-07:00

Spoiler Alert: This review contains spoilers for the first book in the series! The Black is the second installment of the Morpheus Road trilogy. Here, the voice of the narrator switches from Marshall Seaver, to Cooper Foley, Marshall’s best friend who is killed in book one (Morpheus Road: The Light). Most of the plot elements from the first book are retold from Cooper’s point of view. The plot goes further in this telling explaining what the Morpheus Road is… a middle world where one confronts one’s life and contemplates the good and the bad, before moving on the road or being condemened to the Blood. As Cooper learns to navigate his new world and existence, he meets his deceased grandfather, a young girl, an evil and powerful warrior called Damon, and Marshall’s mother (who's death set everything in motion). Cooper is determined to fight the earthshaking mayhem caused by Damon, whose goal is to dominate the world of the afterlife as well as the living, who is responsible for Cooper’s death, and who is haunting of Marshall Seaver (which occurs in book one). I didn't enjoy The Black, as much as The Light, as it is not as fast-paced, nor as scary. Still, and entertaining read, and looking forward to book 3: The Blood.

Reed Reads Score: 3

A Million Shades of Gray by Cynthia Kadohata

2011-05-16T14:29:00.000-07:00

A story of inhumanity, humanity and survival in the jungles of Vietnam, shortly after the Americans pull out of Vietnam. Y'Tin is now 13, but has been an elephant handler since the age of 11. He loves his elephant Lady, whom he treats with a courage and compassion uncommon to the other elephant handlers in his village. His village is attacked by the North Vietnamese, and Y'Tin is captured, separating him from his family and beloved Lucy. He witnesses horrors and cruelty but escapes to search the jungle for his family and Lucy, while trying to avoid being re-captured or killed. A good novel, that will help make students aware of the Vietnam War, it's horrors, and the courage and hardships the Vietnamese people faced, though the commitment and love that Y'Tin and Lucy have for each other is what really drives the story
Reed Reads Score: 3.5

Pathfinder by Orson Scott Card

2011-05-06T13:57:00.000-07:00

Rigg has lived his life trapping furs with his father. His father has trained him well for the wild, the world, and a special talent that only Rigg possesses; he is able to see the paths taken by people of the past. There is only one path he cannot see, and it is that of his father. His father is unexpectedly killed by a falling tree, and on his return from the forest, Rigg witnesses a young boy in danger. As he attempts to save him, a figure from the past, occupying one of the many paths Rigg sees, suddenly appears and prevents Rigg from saving the boy. The boy dies, and the boy's older brother, Umbo, accuses Rigg of killing him. With the town enraged, Rigg takes refuge with one of his father's friends, where he learns of a message and artifacts left by his father. It is decided that Rigg must leave to escape the town's rage, and get answers to the message left by his father. As he leaves, Umbo admits to Rigg, that he lied, and to keep the blame and his fathers rath away, he wants to leave with him. Umbo and Rigg are very different, but they discover each other's power, creating a symbiotic friendship between the two. Their journey is filled with adventure as they try to get answers to the mystery left by Rigg's father. This is a must-read, fantastic tale that intertwines intergalactic space travel with a story of unusual powers and royalty.
Reed Reads Score:5

And Then There Were None by Agatha Cristie

2011-05-04T19:23:00.000-07:00

Ten travelers, all strangers, have all arrived on Indian Island for a vacation. There are just two things that they all share. First, they don't know the hostess/host. The second, is that they all have, to say the least, a murky past. After they all are settled, they witness some strange things happening. One by one, they're being killed off. In the duration of just two days, they are all dead. The only people who are innocent, are those who are dead. For who can kill when they're already dead?
And Then There Were None was a page-turning novel. Well, at least two-thirds of it. At first, you might think this book is boring. Sure, at the beginning, you start wishing you had never picked it up. For me, I had to make myself remember the back flap and how cool it sounded, to make me forge ahead. You must too. As soon as the first murder takes place, the ball starts rolling pretty quickly. I'm not much into creepy books, but this one oddly enough didn't kill me with fright. In it, you're dealing with psychologically twisted people who are scared out of their wits, sleepy, hungry, and wide-eyed with desperation for life and suspicion. Most of all, they're all haunted by their past. Agatha Christie has been called the "Queen of Crime." I have to agree that she is an exquisite writer. There are so many puzzles and she keeps you on your toes. The ending leaves you intrigued, struggling for more information, and grasping for more answers.
Reed's Read Score: 3.5

Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool

2011-04-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

Twelve-year-old Abilene Tucker has been left by her father in Manifest, Kansas under the care of an old friend named Shady, as he works on the railroads in 1936. Abilene finds the town curious, but boring...until she finds a cigar box, filled with mementos and letters. Who is this spy called Rattler? Who are the letters from? What is the significance of these objects? And, why did her father leave her here and what is his relationship with these people? The mystery is what drives this story that is told in two time periods, Abilene's present, and the period of the mystery person's box, World War I.

Honestly, I didn't enjoy the book's start. It was a too sweet, rural America, historical fiction. Then the story grew on me and I realized the simple apple pie I was reading was far more complex than it first appeared. This is a story that you savor slowly; one that gets more interesting as it develops, and brings a huge reward at the end.
Reed Reads Score: 4

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

2011-04-11T22:22:00.000-07:00

The peaceful planet Lorien is attacked by vicious Mogadorians. The planet will soon be destroyed, but before total annihilation, nine young Gardes, each accompanied by a guardian adult, their Cepan, are blasted into space. The Gardes will travel light-years to a planet called Earth, where they will disperse, and, with their Cepan, will develop their powers so they can defeat the Mogadorians and return to their home planet. A special protection is placed upon the nine Gardes. Each are numbered, and can only be destroyed, if killed in numerical order. The Mogadorians have followed them to Earth with the intention to kill the Loriens and then complete their mission by destroying Earth. One, two, and three have been killed. Now it is number four's turn. Number four, John, with his Cepan, Henri, have currently settled in a rural Ohio town, where he will meet his first love, Sarah, an arch-enemy, Mark, and a nerdy friend, Sam. Little do they understand, and little do they know...they are about to fight the battle for their lives.
Strong plot moves this story forward in this thrilling science-fiction. I am looking forward to reading the soon to be released sequel, I Am Six.
Reed Reads Score: 3.5

Wildwood Dancing by Juliet Mariller

2011-04-11T21:23:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of the twelve dancing princesses? Once upon a time, there were twelve princesses, regular ordinary princesses. The only thing weird about all of them was that every morning, their father would find broken shoes. Yet, they hadn't made any noise in the night or left their bedrooms. What was happening?
The princesses were going to a different world, a world where they danced every night. Wildwood Dancing is somewhat like that. Every full moon, Jena and her three sisters cross into a fairy world, existing parallel to their own. These little crossovers go on through out Jena's childhood. Suddenly, when she turns 17, her world is turned upside down. Her father far away on business, becomes fatally ill. Her nosy cousin is trying to kill everything magical, as well as woo her, and take over her life. Her older sister, Tatianna, has fallen in love with a sort- of soul-less human. A vampire is trying to make her his victim. And, there is much more. To set everything right, Jena and her frog Gogu must journey farther then they ever have into the magical world and into their own past. I really enjoyed this book and have read it over and over again. There's much detail and it is enchanting. It's not your average fairy tale book. It takes place in Transylvannia and is very cultural. It's not stereotypical at. Unlike most books with fairies, they don't make them out to be perfect. Also, the villain is not who you think it is. Altogether, this book is wonderful. And for those who were wondering, there is a sequel with Jena's sister, Cybele's Secret.
Reed Reads Score: 4.5

I Am The Messenger by Markus Zusak

2011-02-20T18:02:00.000-08:00

First it was The Book Thief, and now I am the Messinger. Markus Zusak has quickly become my favorite author. I had a very deep, personal connection to Messenger. The writing is extraordinary, but more than that, its message is one that will make you look deep into yourself. "...sometimes people are beautiful. Not in looks. Not in what they say. Just in what they are." It is a message that simply says you can be more, you can make a difference; it doesn't take much, the little things count.
The story centers around 19 year-old Ed Kennedy. A slacker whose life centers around driving a cab, playing cards with his three friends Ritchie, Marv, the love of his life, Audrey, and living with his smelly companion, his dog Doorman. Ed's life takes a turn when he and Marv are caught in a bank robbery, and Ed by happenstance becomes a hero by catching the robber. A few days later, a playing card, the ace of diamonds, appears in his mailbox with three addresses written on it. What is he to do? Who is behind this? Why Ed? Each story, the colorful cast of characters, and your connection to Ed will mesmerize, surprise, humor, and touch you in ways you will not expect. Mature content, violence, and language make this (sadly) a read for mature readers.
Reed Reads Score: 5

Shooting Kabul by N.H. Senzai

2011-02-05T11:30:00.000-08:00

Eleven year old Fadi's family is escaping the turmoil of the Taliban in Afghanistan. In the chaos of their escape, Fadi's younger sister, Miriam, is left behind. This nightmare torments each member of the family, as each blames themselves for the loss of Miriam. Emigrating to San Francisco, Fadi's family tries to adjust to life in America, while continuing their search for Miriam. Fadi sees an opportunity, when the grand prize to a photography contest is a trip to India. He will join the photo club at school, win the prize, and find his sister. All does not go smoothly, when the attack on the World Trade Center, creates tension and bullies take revenge on Fadi.
The story is simply told, providing background information needed to understand the situation. I would have enjoyed more depth to the story, perhaps including Miriam's experience to parallel Fadi's. It is still a decent read, and I enjoyed the warmth and affection between Fadi, his parents, older sister, and extended family... a testament to the strength of family.

Read Reads Score: 3.5

Morpheus Road: The Light by D.J. MacHale

2011-01-22T10:06:00.000-08:00

Marshall Seaver is a 16 year old geek who's summer plans with his best friend Coop are destroyed when Coop gets in trouble and is sent away for the summer. Marshall's mom was recently killed in an earthquake while doing a photo shoot in eastern Europe. Traveling the world, she often sent Marshall "stuff" from her travels. One was a mysterious glass ball, for which Marshall was clueless as to its purpose. One evening, after a heated argument with his father, Marshall throws the ball against his bedroom wall. It bursts into pieces, sending a blood like liquid all over. Moments later the liquid disappears, and strange things start happening. His friend Coop mysteriously disappears, strange patterns appear out of nowhere, and he gets a horrifying visit from a character that Marshall created in his art class named Gravedigger. This is the beginning of Marshall Seaver's nightmare, one in which he tries to find his friend Coop, while being hunted by forces with powers beyond his imagination.
I'm not a fan of horror, nor does anything I read really scare me, BUT The Light, first in the Morpheus Road series is really creepy, and will send a chill to those that scare easily. It is a wild roller coaster ride of continuous mysterious events that will leave you exhausted.

Reed Read's Score: 4

Wonderland by Tommy Kovac, Illustrated by Sonny Liew

2010-12-31T23:42:00.000-08:00

Wonderland is a graphic novel that spins the original story off from a minor character named Mary Ann. Mary Ann is the white rabbit's house maid who is at first confused for Alice. In this telling, she is off to work, but late so she attempts a short-cut, landing her in the court of the Queen of Hearts. From here chaos ensues, leading Mary Ann to many of the familiar Wonderland characters; Cheshire Cat, Mad Hatter, and even a reciting of Jabberwocky. I have never read the original, and it was obvious to me that much of the humor is lost as a result. I think readers and fans of Lewis Carroll's original will enjoy it, but others may find it confusing. It is rare that I read a graphic novel (the other being Amulet), so it was difficult for me to adjust to the format, so I can lose myself in the story. The illustrations are highly stylized and add depth to the story.
Reed Reads Score: 3

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

2010-12-21T07:39:00.000-08:00

It took me three years to read this book. It called to me, but it was too long. Didn't have the time. A month ago my daughter read it. She told me a bit about it, said it was a bit unusual and disconcerting for her. I finished my last book, had nothing around to read, so I picked it up. I've just finished it and write this with tears. This is one of the most brillintly written books I have ever read. Period. It is a story, narrated by Death, of a little German girl, growing up in Nazi Germany. She finds life in words, and in the people around her who are both heroic and demonic. Not really a holocaust story. Not really a WWII story. This is a human story told from the German side, one we rarely read. Not all students will be ready for this book in middle school, but it is one that all of you should eventually read.
Reed Reads Score: 5

Deadline by Chris Crutcher

2010-11-28T21:44:00.000-08:00

Eighteen-year-old Ben Wolfe is entering his senior year in high school. At his annual physical, it is discovered that he has an aggressive blood disease and has less than a year to live. He declines treatment, choosing to live as "normal" a last year as he can. Ben decides that he will keep his condition a secret and orders the doctor not to tell anyone. He determines that he will live his senior year fully by going out for football, dating one of the most attractive girls, challenging his teachers, and befriending the town drunk. He is close to his brother, has a loving father, a coach that is supportive, but his mom is manic/depressive and often isolated. In his dreams he talks to Hey-Soos for support and clarity. Things go extremely well for Ben, but he is constantly questioning his decision to keep his condition from those he loves the most. If you have read Crutcher before, you will be familiar with the sports/family/relationship theme, and of course, there is a therapist to help Ben sort things out. An interesting read, but not as good as Whale Talk or Staying Fat for Sarah Burns. Crutcher doesn't sugar coat the situation. For mature readers because of content and language.
Reed Reads Score: 4

I,Q: Independence Hall by Roland Smith

2010-11-13T22:42:00.000-08:00

Spies, intrigue, false identities and unexpected twists & turns...this is a fun spy/mystery novel. It has all the elements of a Mission Impossible, spy vs. spy thriller, with techno-gadgets, disguises, car chases, and double agents. The story centers around Q (Quest) and his step-sister Angela, as they become entangled in a search by competing spy agencies for Malak, Angela's thought to be dead mother, who is now believed to be part of a terrorist cell. Clues unfold slowly at first, but the pace quickens as the story moves forward. The ending is satisfying, but leaves you wanting more as it leads you into the next novel in the series; I, Q: The White House.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Bruiser by Neal Shusterman

2010-10-25T23:16:00.000-07:00

Tennyson hates, Brewster, the boy his twin sister, Bronte, is interested in. Tennyson tries to break them up by intervening on a date, infuriating his sister. Tennyson follows Bruiser home, and sees Bruiser's younger brother about to be beaten by their cruel uncle. Seeing that Bruiser is not doing anything to stop him, Tennyson steps in. Little does Tennyson know that this noble act will create a strong and unusual friendship. A friendship that will change his and his family's life, as Bruiser is no ordinary teenager. The book will bring tears and joy, anger and warmth. The story begs the question...If someone could take all your pain, would you let them? A must read.
Read Reads Score: 5

Last Summer of the Death Warriors by Francisco X. Stork

2010-10-15T10:59:00.000-07:00

Revenge can consume every aspect of one's life. Pancho wants revenge for his sister's murder, DQ wants revenge for his abandonment, but together they find redemption. Pancho is surrounded by death; that of his mother, father, and now sister. He is placed in an orphanage where DQ, a wheelchair bound, terminal cancer patient, has "selected" Pancho to be his caretaker. At first motivated by payment for his troubles, a friendship soon binds the two. Pancho is determined to avenge the death of his sister, whom he believes was murdered. DQ is coming to terms with his illness, preparing for his death, and dealing with a mother, who long ago abandoned him, and has now come back into his life to help save his life. The effect of their relationship upon each other is what makes the story rich, moving, and real. Probably best for mature readers because of the subject matter and some language.
Reed Reads Score: 5

King of the Screwups by K.L. Going

2010-09-25T09:07:00.000-07:00

Liam Geller has screwed up for the last time. A popular, fantastic looking, athletic, perfectly dressed guy, Liam is kicked out of his house by his successful CEO father to live with his grandparents. Knowing his grandparents will be no different than his father, Liam has his supermodel mother arrange for him to live with his father's brother Pete. Pete and his father haven't spoken in years because Aunt Pete (what Liam calls him) is a gay, cross-dressing Glam rocker, living in a trailer in small town Pineville. Liam decides that to make his father proud, he is going to use this opportunity in a new school to reinvent himself as a nerdy, academic, unpopular guy. Everything he does backfires and no matter what he tries to do to be unpopular, it makes him more so. Aunt Pete's band members and best friends become important to Liam; Orlando, Liam's English teacher, Dino, the cop, and Eddie, the owner of a clothing store. Liam is a screwup. And you will love him. You will love him because you understand his potential, and that the pain inflicted by his father is controlling his life. Aunt Pete becomes the central figure he needs in his life. While the root of this story is not light, Going does a fantastic job of keeping the humor in between tense, heart wrenching and tender moments. For mature readers (eighth grade) based on content.
Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

2010-09-18T14:10:00.000-07:00

The third and final installment to the Hunger Games trilogy does not disappoint. Katniss is now holed up in District 13's underground community. Gale, Katniss' mother, and sister Primm have made it to District 13 as well, but Peeta is a captive of the Capitol. The remainder of District 12 has been firebombed and destroyed. Katniss must fulfill her revenge upon the Capitol, and kill President Snow. She enters into a deal with Coin, the leader of District 13, to provide immunity to all Hunger Game victors, as well as the privilege to kill Snow in exchange for becoming the Mockingjay - the symbol and motivation of the rebellion. What ensues is a roller coaster of a story that is totally unpredictable and will leave you breathless. Many will ask "...is it Peeta, Gale or neither?"
Reed Reads Score: 5

Fever Crumb by Philip Reeve

2010-09-07T10:58:00.000-07:00

Here is an apocalyptic world where society is in a dark age. Technology, both the knowledge and use of it have regressed. We are in London, no longer a thriving metropolis, but in ruins created by riots and a lack of government. We meet Fever, a fourteen year old girl, the daughter of Dr. Crumb, and the only female admitted to the Order, a society of engineers. Their world is closed from the outside, and ruled by what is logic and reason. Fever has been called to assist an archeologist in the outer world, as he tries to uncover some of the mysteries of an earlier world and the technology that existed then. As she leaves the protection of the Order, she discovers a world that she finds difficult to understand. While she tries to make sense of this world, she starts recalling memories that can't possibly belong to her. To whom do these memories belong? She is pursued, but why? What is it about her past that haunts her? This is science fiction at its best, and now occupies the top of my list with Ender's Game.
Reed Reads Score: 5

Green Witch by Alice Hoffman

2010-09-07T10:28:00.000-07:00

An apocalypse beyond imagination...the loss of her family, the destruction of society, and the absence of everything she knew and loved hurled Green into a dark depression. Now, in this long awaited sequel to Green Angel, a year has passed since the disaster that destroyed Green's world. Her garden magically grows, and she becomes somewhat of a guiding force for the small village that remains. Yet her memories, and the loss of true love still haunt her. She ventures away from home to collect the stories of the women that have been branded as witches, and along the way she learns the truth, and discovers what really happened to her one true love. This is a quick, enjoyable read, and an absolute must for the readers of Green Angel.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Shakespeare Makes the Playoffs by Ron Koertge

2010-08-20T09:32:00.000-07:00

Baseball is central to Kevin, a first baseman, who plays the game hard and is helping to bring his team to the playoffs. He has to balance this with his disinterested girlfriend Mira, his newest "friend" Amy, and his father, who is just starting a relationship after his wife passed away. In the end, it comes down to a tied game, the last inning, the final out...
An easy read, all told in 170 pages, perfect for the reluctant reader, and a great way to teach poetry. POETRY???
Pantoums, tankas, sestinas, couplets, blank verse...forms of poetry that sound foreign are what make up this novel in verse. Kevin's nickname is Shakespeare, given for his writing skills that were introduced in Shakespeare Bats Cleanup, to which this novel is a sequel. Kevin picks up his writing again, only this time he writes with Amy, a girl he meets at a poetry reading. Sending emails back and forth, experimenting with different writing forms, and sharing their teen angst make up much of the novel. A fun read, and a great way to hook an unsuspecting reader into poetry and the forms it takes.
Read Reads Score: 3.5

Countdown by Deborah Wiles

2010-08-13T22:09:00.000-07:00

Life in the sixties was wild and scary. Everyone lived in fear of communists and atomic bombs. But more than a period of fear, this was a time where our way of life was changing. This is a novel about 11-year-old Franny Chapman. She feels invisible to her family, friends and teachers. She lives in constant fear of never seeing tomorrow from a nuclear attack. She fights with her best friend. She has a crush on the boy down the street. Big sister Jo Ellen is mysteriously gone, and little brother Drew is Mr. Perfect. The Cuban Missile Crisis has created near panic in everyone. How will Franny's world come together? How will she survive? While the story is beautifully written, the story is enriched by pictures, music lyrics, speeches, advertising, maps, and short biographies that bring the period to life. This is especially important to young readers, not familiar with the period. The book is unique in its format, approach and design, but the novel is just good ol' fashioned story telling. Yes, I loved this book.
Reed Reads Score: 5

Griff Carver, Hallway Patrol by Jim Krieg

2010-08-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

Joe Friday? Columbo? Monk? These detectives have met their match! Meet seventh grader, Griff Carver, a super-sleuth that has taken the responsibility of hallway patrol at his new school; Rampart Middle School. Griff makes new friends and enemies as he patrols the hallways and keeping his eyes and ears open, discovers a hall pass counterfeit ring that supports one nasty, politically powerful ring leader. With support of Tommy Rodriguez, and reporter Verity King (does he get the girl?), Griff takes on the investigation of his career. This is a funny parody of classic detective heroes. As I was reading it, I felt like I was hearing Joe Friday in Dragnet (sorry kids, you'll have to search that one on the Internet, or catch an episode on some classic TV station). Some references may be beyond most middle school student's realm of reference, but it will be just as fun.
Read Reads Score: 3.5

She's So Dead to Us by Kieran Scott

2010-07-12T13:21:00.000-07:00

Ally Ryan, an athletically gifted 15 year old, has moved back to her hometown after a year's absence. Originally part of the rich elite, called the "Cresties", she is now a "Norm" and hated by her former friends. Her father, an investment banker, who lost his own as well as the fortunes of Ally's friends, moved Ally and her mother out of their mansion and then abandon them. Ally and her mom move back, now living in a condo. Allie visits her old house where she discovers a gorgeous jock, Jake, living in her old room. The chemistry between them is immediate, but strained, because his group of friends are those that hate Ally. Told in alternating voices between Ally and Jake, the story and romance between them is one of the difficulties of being a teen and standing up to or succumbing to peer pressure. While not my favorite genre, the book is readable, and some of the pranks Ally's friends pull are downright cruel. The ending is a cliffhanger, ensuring a sequel. For mature readers because of strong language that is part of typical teen dialogue.
Reed Reads Score: 3.5

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

2010-07-12T12:50:00.000-07:00

Christopher discovers his neighbor's dog murdered. Christopher is curious. Christopher must unravel the mystery of the murder. To do so requires him to venture out of his comfortable world of numbers and logic, and into the loathsome world of people. Christopher is a fifteen year old autistic, mathematical savant, whose deep need to uncover the mystery of the dog's murder overpowers his fear of communicating with people. His search for the truth leads him to dark secrets that will change his relationship with neighbors and family. Written in the true voice of Christopher, the story takes unexpected turns, wishing you could be there to protect Christopher. Ultimately this story is about family and how the desire to protect those we love can ultimately hurt them. A perfect companion to Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco X. Stork, both books about autistic youth yearning for the truth. I loved this book. For more mature readers, contains strong language.
Reed Reads Score: 5

Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco X. Stork

2010-07-12T12:21:00.000-07:00

Marcelo loves taking care of the ponies at Paterson, a school for high functioning autistic youth. His father, a high powered attorney, wants Marcelo to spend his senior year mainstreamed in a public school because he must experience the "real world." At odds, Marcelo and his father compromise by agreeing to Marcelo spending the summer working in his father's law offices, and from that experience will decide which school he will attend. Marcelo enters a world he fears and doesn't understand. At the office he teams up with Jasmine who takes him under her wing, helping him sort out the competition, jealousy, and indifference that is typical of the business world. When completing a task, Marcelo discovers a picture of a girl whose face is grossly disfigured. His search for the truth behind the picture is life changing. The story is convincingly written in the voice of Marcelo, with deep characterizations and a plot that unfolds beautifully. I loved this book, and while perhaps better suited for high school, it is an important story told with heart and compassion. The book is for more mature readers because of language and light sexual inferences. An excellent companion to The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nightime by Mark Haddon.
Reed Reads Score: 5

Everwild by Neal Shusterman

2010-07-12T11:57:00.000-07:00

The second book of the Skinjacker Trilogy, Everwild is just as creepy, but more complex than Everlost, to which it is a sequel. Mary Hightower (the Sky Witch), Nick (the Chocolate Ogre), Allie (the Outcast), and Mikey (formerly the monstrous McGill) are all back along with some new characters, which requires reading the first book to understand what is going on. Everlost is a world inhabited by Afterlights; children and teens in a world between the living and the dead. Mary and Nick are at odds, Mary believing that Everlost is where Afterlights should remain in perpetuity, and Nick who wants to send them to "the light". The story follows the maneuvering for dominance between Mary and Nick, as well as Allie who uses skinjacking; the ability to enter the bodies of the living, to help her find her parents. Several plot twists, and mixed allegiances keep you wondering, but with so much going on the story bogs down. The climax is a cliff-hanger, leaving you yearning for book three.
Read Reads Score: 3.5

Darkwood by M.E. Breen

2010-07-12T11:31:00.000-07:00

Overhearing her wicked uncle plotting to sell her to the Drop, a cruel mining operation that utilizes children to harvest ringstone from perilous cliffs, twelve-year-old Annie escapes to the Darkwood, where her fight for survival begins. This adventure/fantasy will pull you in all directions as Annie encounters friend and foe, constantly leaving you bewildered as to which is which. From the kinderstalk lurking in the forest, ready to grab children, to the King and his glittering palace, Annie must constantly be watching her back. Well written, and vividly described, Breen creates an unusual, twisted world that is dark, creepy and mysterious,
Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

2010-01-15T09:32:00.000-08:00

The Hunger Games are over. Katniss and Peeta, Hunger Game victors, are settling into their life of privilege. Panem is head over heels for the pair of lovebirds. Soon to be married, the people get to vote for which wedding dress Katniss will wear. But Katniss is not happy, nor is the President. Katniss is torn between Peeta and her true love, Gale. Her defiance of the government in the Hunger Games is fueling unrest throughout the country. Hopefully Katniss and Peeta's victory tour will convince the people of their love for each other and settle the brewing rebellion...or will it? The second book of the Hunger Games trilogy is a thriller, but will leave you hanging and angry that you have to wait for book three to learn the fate of Katniss and all that surround her.

Reed Reads Score: 4.5

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

2009-09-14T07:13:00.000-07:00

Miranda witnesses her best friend, Sal get beat up by a mysterious boy for no reason. Sal doesn't want to be with Miranda since the incident. Miranda, searching for new friends finds Annemarie and Colin, who together, volunteer to work at Jimmy's sandwich shop at lunch. Then mysterious things start happening...the key to her apartment is missing, a shoe is stolen, and mysterious notes start appearing in the most unusual places..."I am coming to save your friend's life, and my own. I ask two favors. First, you must write me a letter." A story that seems to wander at first, but the end is stunning, pulling all the loose ends together.

Read Reads Score: 4

The Liberation of Gabriel King by K.L. Going

2009-08-16T20:22:00.000-07:00

Gabriel King is filled with fear. Spiders, alligators, and a friend’s older brother don’t compare to his greatest fear; entering the 5th grade and facing the school bullies in the upper grade yard. His best friend, Frita, decides that she is going to help him confront his fears by forcing him to make a list of all his fears, and face them over the summer. What Gabriel doesn't realize is that Frita’s fears are deeper. Frita is African-American, and faces the prejudice that was existent in the South in 1976. K.L. Going has created a humorous and heart warming coming of age story, that teaches us about friendship, family, and overcoming hatred. Highly recommended for all students and their parents!

Read Reads Score: 5

Trophy Kid, or How I was Adopted by the Rich and Famous by Steve Atinsky

2009-07-27T18:56:00.000-07:00

We have all heard about Brad and Angelina's adoptions. Famous Hollywood celebrities have a habit of gaining publicity by adopting a foreign under-privileged child. Imagine what it might be like to BE one of those children. That is the premise of Trophy Kid...

At three years old, Josef is orphaned when his parents are killed during the civil war in Croatia. Robert Francis and Greta Powell, Hollywood super-stars step in and out bid all others to adopt Josef, or Joe. Fast-forward, and Joe is now 13, and given the task of writing a book about his experience, with the help of Tom, a writer that never gets credit for his work. As Joe and Tom discuss Joe's past, several questions come up. Are Greta and Robert self-serving ego maniacs? Has their over-protection been hiding the truth? Is Robert's father really alive? Get a peek at the Hollywood lifestyle as Joe searches for the answers, and learns what family really is. Great for reluctant readers.

Reed Reads Score 3.5

Gold Rush Kid by Mary Waldorf

2009-07-27T18:47:00.000-07:00

At the height of the Alaskan Gold Rush, twelve-year-old Billy’s father has set off to the Klondike to make it rich. After the sudden death of their mother, Billy and his 15 year old sister Edna are left alone. Faced with being sent off to relatives, they decide to head for gold country and search for their father. The story unfolds as a fantastic adventure where children are thrust into the tough and difficult life of a gold miner. The pair face hardships, friendship, sibling rivalry and grief, while learning that family is what will ultimately help them survive. Provides rich details of the life of the Alaskan gold miner in the 1890s. Excellent for discussing families, grief, and Alaskan gold rush history.

Reed Reads Score: 4

Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

2009-06-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

Enter the Hunger Games, a sporting event that no other can match; in scope, in pagentry, in fame for the victor. And for the losers? Nothing less than death.

In this dark picture of the future of North America is Panem, a country divided into twelve districts, plus the Capitol. To remind it's citizens of it's power, the Capitol requires each district to send one boy and one girl between the ages of 12 and 18 to participate in the Hunger Games; a televised event where the combatants must fight to the death until only one remains. Enter Katniss Everdeen a 16 year-old girl who, because of the loss of her father, has learned to survive and support her family. When her younger sister is selected for the games she steps in to take her place. Katniss enters a world more extravagant than she could dream, and so dangerous, she doubts that she can survive. An engrossing story that pulls you in immediately and maintains a tenseness throughout. A thought provoking look at how a strong sense of humanity can survive in a heartless world.

Read Reads Score: 4.5

The Porcupine Year by Louise Erdrich

2009-06-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

I love science fiction because I get to see into the imagined future. It’s the same with historical fiction except it's factual: I get to peek into the world the author has researched and really see how someone lived from day to day. Louise Erdrich wrote three books about a Ojibwe girl growing up along the rivers of North Minnesota in the 1800’s. Her name is Omaykayas and her family is a colorful group of native Americans with bad moods, and funny traits just like your family. The difference is that they live totally off the land and the waters, their existence threatened by the Western expansion of the United States. In the third book, “The Porcupine Year,” her brother takes a porcupine as a pet and even wears him as a hat! Omaykayas loves an Ojibwe boy older than her twelve years; her uncle steals the winter supplies from the family, and she almost drowns in a river storm. The entire series begins with “The Birchbark House” followed by “The Game of Silence” and finally “Year of the Porcupine.” Survival skills and family are key here. Ms Erdrich also writes adult historical fiction, and I find all her books fascinating.

Reed Reads Score: 4.5

The Evolution of Capurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly

2009-06-03T11:52:00.000-07:00

Lately, I seem to always write about historical fiction with a girl as the main character. But there are plenty of guys in this book, including a rascal of a grandpa. Hanging out with old folks may not be your idea of fun. It all depends on who it is, right? Calpurnia Tate, 11 years old in 1899, discovers three important things: her granddad is NOT a mean guy; learning how to observe nature as a scientist is really fun, and being forced to learn housekeeping is NOT. It's the era when Charles Darwin's theories of evolution are making news, automobiles make their first appearance in town, and it's the mating season for Cali's older brothers. Natural science is all over the place! I predict that this novel will win Newbery honors, and that when you read how the author, Jacqueline Kelly, weaves all these ideas together, you will also love The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate.

Reed Reads Score: 5

Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

2009-04-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

Total, unadulterated, middle school humor! The diary, no, JOURNAL of Greg Heffley reveals the inner-workings of the mind of a middle school kid. No logic, no real story line, just pure fun that will make you laugh out loud. The girls have Georgia from Angus, Thongs and Full Frontal Snogging and now the boys have Greg to reveal what really goes on in the heads of middle school boys.

Reed Reads Score: 4

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

2009-04-12T20:26:00.000-07:00

Eight-year old Bruno loves to explore, loves to play with his best friends, and lives a full, rich life in World War II Berlin. Suddenly his life is turned upside down, when his father gets a promotion and he must move, leaving behind all that he loves. His new home is isolated in the country, and there is no one to play with, and nothing to do. Bruno decides to explore, discovering the "farm" he could see from his bedroom window. And there, sitting behind the barbed-wire fence, is a boy...

This is a beautifully told story of a special friendship in World War II Europe. Even if you've seen the movie, the book is still well worth reading.

Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Click: One Novel Ten Authors

2009-02-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

We all leave legacies, the way we affect people and history, in unexpected ways. Click is the legacy of a photographer, George "Gee" Keane. The first chapters introduce the reader to his grandaughter, Maggie and grandson, Jason, each mourning the loss of their grandfather in different ways. Through them we learn that Gee was a well traveled, fairly well known photo journalist, who has left his grandchildren a gift that ultimately will change their lives. Each chapter, written by a different author, is a short story unto itself that focuses on people and places in the life of Gee, and how they ultimately all connect. The concept is interesting, but I found the writing from chapter to chapter uneven (not surprising), with some chapters far more compelling than others.

Read Reads Score: 3.5

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

2009-01-21T10:29:00.000-08:00

A murderer's knife is dripping with blood. Three in the family are dead, and now its the baby's turn. Little does this baby know that his curiosity has saved his life. Climbing out of bed and wandering outside, he was not to be found by the murderer. His curiosity has led him to a nearby graveyard, where the spirits that live there, know that he is now an orphan. The spirits decide that they must protect and raise this child. A child that they will call Nobody or Bod for short. This is Bod's story, a story of a young boy raised in a graveyard by spirits and a guardian, the people he meets, the adventures he faces, and the mystery he must solve; who murdered his family and why they are still after him? This is Neil Gaiman's second book for young reader's, following the immensely popular Coraline. This is a great read especially for you horror and mystery lovers

Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Trivia question: Where did Neil Gaiman get the title from?

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

2008-12-05T11:31:00.000-08:00

Once again, Ms Halse gives us someone to care about: a smart young slave girl caught in the onset of the American Revolutionary War as it began in New York. I wanted to finish it because things happened fast, because New York and the life back then came vividly to life, and because I learned more facts I wasn't aware of during the War. Isabel is a heroine who follows her best instincts where others would not, and has to deal with difficult people and dire circumstances. She achieves great things despite her slave status. Reading this book took me to New York: it's muddy streets, cold winters, smells, foods, and vocations. This book is bound for awards for its rich portrayals, realism, and age-appropriate historical fiction writing. Read it, and I'll race you to the sequel when it comes out.

Reed Reads Score: 5

Antsy Does Time by Neal Shusterman

2008-11-29T14:23:00.000-08:00

Antsy Does Time, a sequel to The Schwa was Here, is a strong novel on its own. Antsy, Anthony Botano is now fourteen. Antsy and his buddies see a disaster in the making and run to go witness it themselves. Not able to watch a man falling to his death, Antsy turns away, his eye catching a kid from school, Gunnar Ümlaut, who must turn away as well. After this quick connection, they talk on the bus going home. Gunnar reveals that he has a fatal disease and will die in six months. Touched by this, Antsy creates a contract, giving Gunnar one month of his life. When others catch wind of Antsy's generosity, they too want to join in giving Gunnar time -- creating a situation that is soon to spin out of control. Antsy senses something is afoul when he develops a friendship with Gunnar and romance develops with Gunnar's older sister Kjersten. Fun and heartwarming, Antsy Does Time is a story about family, friendship and the strength of giving

Reed Reads Score: 4

The Year of Miss Agnes by Kirkpatrick Hill

2008-11-17T10:40:00.000-08:00

I'm partial to fiction books about Alaska because my big brother lives there, and was a bush teacher. Bush teachers know how to teach multi-grade classes in small, remote towns and villages, the only access being small airplanes in the winter, and boats if they are near the water.

In Kirkpatrick Hill's novel, "The Year of Miss Agnes," Fred and the other kids of the Athabacan village get, yet again, another new teacher. But this one is different. She does not complain about the smell of fish and she tosses out old textbooks! She talks as if all the kids could be scientists and doctors if they wanted. When you get a great teacher, you never forget, right? Ms Hill has written about just such a teacher, and a time in Alaska when everything was on the verge of change. I zipped through the book, not just because it was about Alaska, but because it was about a year of change and growth and fun.

Reed Reads Score: 4

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

2008-11-03T16:03:00.000-08:00

I read Twilight this summer, reluctantly, under pressure from my daughters. Needless to say, I did enjoy the book. Twilight is so wildly popular, and with the movie coming out this month, I didn't feel the need to review it, but then guilt set in and so here it is. Twilight is the story of Bella, a bright and independent girl who moves to gloomy Forks, Washingtion to live with her dad. In school, she meets Edward, whose perfection brings her to her feet. Falling rapturously in love, she soon knows something is different here - Edward is a vampire who lusts for her blood. Edward is just as enraptured with Bella, and the fact that she is the one girl that he can't look into her mind. Their romance creates the collision of vampire and mortal worlds.

While Bella's musings over the gorgeous Edward became a bit tedious for me, there were some real moments of excitement here. While this book's appeal has been mostly to a female audience, some of the guys could get hooked into the vampire fantasy and the adventure that ensues. This is the first of a series of four books. Be sure to read Eclipse, New Moon and Breaking Dawn.

Reed Reads Score: 4

Unwind by Neal Shusterman

2008-11-03T14:43:00.000-08:00

In this future world, the conflict between pro-life and pro-choice armies has been resolved. From conception, no human life will be touched until age thirteen. Between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, a life can be aborted by the process of "unwinding", the harvesting of all body parts for transplantation. Three teenagers are destined to be unwound; Connor, a 17-year-old troublemaker, unwanted by his parents, Risa, an orphan whose talents are not quite good enough for the orphanage to keep her, and Lev whose religion makes it the highest honor to be unwound at 13. The three meet by chance, but their struggle to survive makes this one of Shusterman's most engrossing, high powered adventures to date.

Reed Reads Score: 5

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

2008-10-25T17:11:00.001-07:00

OMG, this is one of the best YA books I've read in a long time!

I have never started a review like that, but this National Book Award winner is that good. Junior (aka Arnold) lives on an Indian reservation near Spokane, Washington. The novel chronicles his freshman year in high school, a period of monster change for most 14-year-old boys with raging hormones, new interest in girls, and being unsure of oneself while trying to understand their place in the world. What Junior faces is amplified when he decides to go to a "white" school outside the reservation. Now he is a traitor at home, and vilified at school. His experiences are heart wrenching and humorous .... how can that be? Read the book! For mature readers.

Reed Reads Score: 5

15 Minutes by Steve Young

2008-04-03T18:38:00.000-07:00

Casey, a seventh grader, finds himself continually late. If he could just be on time for things - classes, football practice, even breakfast, all would be well. While searching through his attic, Casey discovers an old watch that belonged to his grandfather. He puts it on, but like most of Grandpop's inventions, it doesn't seem to work right. When Casey discovers that he can't take the watch off, he reads Grandpop's journal and discovers that the watch is actually a time machine that can transport its wearer 15 minutes into the past. At first Casey is delighted, and uses the power of the watch to enhance his "coolness rating." However, he soon realizes that altering the past has serious implications. This humorus story combines science fiction, sports action, and laughs with a strong underlying message about personal responsibility and honesty.

Reed Reads Score: 4

The Poet Slave of Cuba by Margarita Engle

2008-04-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

A biography of Juan Francisco Manzano, born in in Cuba in 1797 and told through poetry in the voices of Juan himself, his mother and father, and the family that has enslaved him. A powerful, moving story of a boy who is gifted with the power of verse, but who must face the cruelty, jealousy, and spitefulness of the women that keep him as a slave. Juan perseveres and maintains hope even when each moment of freedom is crushed by severe brutality. Vividly illustrated by Sean Qualls with black and white drawings.
Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Elephant Run by Roland Smith

2008-02-20T17:25:00.000-08:00

Nick is fourteen and has just been shipped off to his father's timber plantation in Burma because London is under attack. It's World War II and the timber elephants owned by Nick's dad are a valuable commodity to the deadly Japanese soldiers who take over the plantation. Nick becomes a slave on his family's land while Dad is sent to a labor death camp. With the assistance of some heroic Burmese friends, including the beautiful Mya, and a dangerous elephant called Hannibal, Nick will become something he is not, will discover secret tunnels, will experience the atrocities of war, and will live to tell about it. I enjoyed Mr. Smith's descriptions of timber elephants and their handlers: amazing creatures. I eagerly read about how Nick survived his enemies and I loved the old monk who could converse with the elephants. Enjoy.

Reed Reads Score: 5

Everlost by Neal Shusterman

2008-01-02T16:22:00.000-08:00

When Nick and Allie collide with each other in a fatal car accident, they find that they have been "bumped" into an alter world called Everlost - a limbo for kids somewhere between life and death. At first, Allie decides she needs to get back to her home to see her family. Nick follows, and as they travel the two learn the rules of Everlost. As they approach New York, they see the Twin Towers which has also been caught in Everlost. Here they meet Mary Hightower, who has taken on the role of caretaker to the children of Everlost. Nick is content to stay in Everlost with Mary, while Allie continues to search for a way to see her family. As they battle terrifying creatures and try to keep from sinking to the center of the earth, they learn that there are some fates that are more frightening than death.
Reed Reads Score: 4

The White Mountains (Book1 of Tripod Trilogy) by John Christopher

2007-12-18T09:22:00.000-08:00

If you start with the first book, The White Mountains, and if you enjoy science-fiction, you will end up devouring all the books in The Tripod Trilogy, including a prequel. A boy, Will Parker, avoids being "capped" by the alien Masters who now rule the modern world. But even though he retains his freedom of thought, he is captured and made a slave. The world of the non-human Masters is vividly repressive and luxurious at the same time. Will is a victim, a renegade and, ultimately, a hero. Be mesmerized by the world that British writer, John Christopher created back in the late 1960's. It could one day be you. The trilogy was a BBC TV series that I would love to find and watch. I've also heard rumors that a motion picture is in the pre-production stages. Ah, someone else could not forget how wonderful is "The Tripod Trilogy."

Reed Reads Score: 5

Sirena by Donna Jo Napoli

2007-12-12T16:42:00.000-08:00

This beautiful and talented mermaid can't figure out whether immortality and true love can co-exist. How she yearns for love! Perhaps she is fated. Does she - or does she not - have free will? Do any of us? Read this book to find out. The story is especially fun if you are familiar with ancient Greek epic poems such as Homer's Iliad and/or Odyssey, characters from which pop in and out of the story. The book contains delightful description of life under the sea as a mermaid. Almost makes you want to be a mermaid, until you remember the immortality vs. true love dilemma.
Reed Reads Score: 3.5

First Light by Rebecca Stead

2007-11-30T10:13:00.000-08:00

A mystery unfolds as Peter Solemn accompanies his parents on a scientific expedition to Greenland. While Mr. Solemn and his young assistant, Jonas, study global warming with sophisticated equipment, Peter explores the vast snow land with his sled dog team.
Peter is about to collide with a hidden world where he will learn the answers to his mother's spells of sadness and his own frequent headaches.
Deep underneath the ice, a community that fled from danger generations ago lives in comfortable secrecy, until Thea, 14 years old, challenges her elders. Thea's determination to learn about her heritage and her connection to the world above leads her and her cousin Mattias to an old tunnel.
Clues and puzzles are examined and secrets are revealed against a dazzling background of ice where the future meets the past.
Reed Reads Score: 4

I Am Not Joey Pigza by Jack Gantos

2007-11-27T21:13:00.000-08:00

Joey now has his ADHD under control. Everything seems to be going well. Until. Until he finds out that his mother has been dating. Dating not just anyone, but dating his father. I Am Not Joey Pigza is the unexpected fourth installment of the Joey Pigza series. If you've read the series, you know that his father is unpredictable, untrustworthy, and unloved by Joey. In this installment his father, Carter, has won a large sum of money in the lottery and has taken a new lease on life. Carter changes his name to Charles, and has a grand plan for Joey and his mother. To join in the change Joey will become Freddy to begin a laugh out loud story that is about forgiveness, family, and personal identity. While not as strong as the first three in the series, this is still an enjoyable read, and was like rediscovering an old friend.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Taking Liberty by Ann Rinaldi

2007-11-23T17:31:00.000-08:00

What was it like in late eighteen century America to be born smart and beautiful, into well-favored circumstances, but be born a slave non-the-less? Meet Oney Judge, who became not only a personal servant, confidant, and "almost a daughter" to Martha Washington, but also Martha Washington's most famous runaway slave.

Ann Rinaldi's Taking Liberty is a page turner of a novel, telling the story of Oney's life with rich historic detail and accuracy. Gradually we find out how and why Oney left a familiar life of comparative ease for the almost certain hardship and loneliness of being a "fugitive slave". Although this story is told with great sympathy for all involved, you will never be able to look at George and Martha Washington the same way again!

Reed Reeds Score: 5

The Wednesday Wars by Gary Schmidt

2007-11-19T09:36:00.000-08:00

If you've every had the experience of feeling that a certain teacher just doesn't like you or is too hard on you, then this is a story with which you will relate. It's 1967 and Holling Hoodhood is in 7th grade. Over the course of the school year, Holling's experiences are both comic and moving, especially when he's forced to wear tights. The great thing about this book is the way the people change their own points of view during the course of the year. It's also an amazingly accurate look at middle-school life in the 1960's. Trust me, I know. After you read this, get Gary Schmidt's Newbery Honor book, "Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Girl." These are worth your reading time. Reed Reads Score: 5

The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing by M.T. Anderson

2007-11-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

And astonishing is this book. It’s also NOT for kids. It takes place in the era of the American Revolutionary War when a beautiful slave woman and her young son are part of an intellectual experiment. They live on a scholarly estate with white scientists and academics and serve as a laboratory study. What has been an environment rich in learning, dining, and luxurious beginnings, becomes a dark disaster reflecting the times, the reality of slavery and the will of men who think they are doing the right thing. We learn about Octavian’s strange childhood and now I can’t wait for Volume II! Reed Reads Score: 5

Love That Dog by Sharon Creech

2007-11-19T09:24:00.001-08:00

Read this book in one evening. I dare you not to cry, tough guy! A kid hates poetry and writes in his class journal to his teacher about it throughout the school year. Then read other books by Sharon Creech and enjoy.
Reed Reads Score: 5

The Killing Sea by Richard Lewis

2007-11-19T09:16:00.001-08:00

The author lives in Bali, Indonesia and participated in the rescue efforts of the 2004 TSUNAMI. He follows the lives of an American tourist teenage girl and an Indonesian teenage guy as they survive the killer waves only to battle the aftermath for days and days: destruction, crime, dead bodies, lack of medical help and survival skills are the keys to making this an “can’t put it down until I finish” book. It’s an easy and engrossing read. Reed Reads Score: 4

The Runaway Princess by Kate Coombs

2007-11-10T07:34:00.000-08:00

Princess Margaret is NOT your fairy tale princess. She loves frogs, her best friend is the gardner, and she is definitely not ready for marriage. Her parents have a different plan...her father needs an heir to the throne so he decides to have a competition for her hand. The first prince to kill the dragon, return with the dragon's booty, and kill the witch in the woods will win. Margaret will have nothing to do with this, so her father imprisons her in a tall tower (sound familiar?). With the help of her friends, she escapes the tower to warn the dragon and the witch...and so the adventure begins. This is a very funny blending of many fairy tales, that will have you laughingall the way through. Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Eggs by Jerry Spinelli

2007-11-10T07:26:00.000-08:00

Eggs are fragile. Eggs are a new life. Eggs can break.
Meet David and Primose. A very unlikely pair. David is 9, Primrose 13. David lives by rules, Primrose loves to break them. David is afraid, Primrose is fearless. So what on earth brings these two together? David is suffering from the loss of his mother, killed by a freak accident at work. Primrose is suffering from a mother whom she lives with, but is mentally not there. This is a story of the sorrow of loss, the pain of memories, gaining friendships, and learning to move on. Not one of Spinelli's best, but certainly a satisfying read that I recommend to all readers. Reed Reads Score: 4.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

2007-11-09T16:09:00.000-08:00

Hugo lives secretly in the walls of the Paris train station. Orphaned, he now maintains the clocks in the station for his uncle who disappeared. More important, Hugo is trying to complete a project of his father's...rebuilding an old mysterious machine found in a museum attic. To get by, Hugo steals food from station cafés, and parts for the machine from a toy store booth in the station. All goes well until he gets caught by the toy store owner.... Here the story begins where Hugo is forced to befriend the toy store owner's grand daughter, help at the toy store, and unravel the mystery of the machine.

This novel is a beautiful, timeless tale told in a unique format. The book, over 500 pages, is at first intimidating, until you open it up. The opening sequence is a series of pictures, that seem like the opening of a silent movie, or a movie storyboard that blends perfectly into the text that follows. The book is about half illustrations that move the story forward. Brian Selznick's words and outstanding illustrations combine to create a classic, yet innovative book. Reed Reads Score: 5

One of Those Hideous Book Where the Mother Dies by Sonia Sones

2006-08-08T15:32:00.000-07:00

A story that reads like a screenplay, the reader quickly becomes involved in the story's two sides: Hollywood fairy tale and overcoming greif. Ruby's mother has passed away, forcing her to move from Boston to L.A. to live in the mansion of her famous actor/father. She is angry and resentful. She misses all that she has left behind - family, friends and first loves. She is painfully greiving the loss of her mother. Her greif blinds her to all that her new life affords - living out the Hollywood fantasy. While the story is resolved neatly, there are some twists that many of you will predict early on. Most will read this in one sitting - it's that good! This story, while written in Ms. Sones' familiar free verse style, is a departure from Stop Pretending or What My Mother Doesn't Know.
Reed Reads Score: 5

Tree Girl by Ben Mikaelsen

2006-08-08T15:27:00.000-07:00

Gabriela, a native Mayan living in Guatemala, loves to climb trees. She is intelligent, talented and has a bright future. Gabriela's story turns violent and heart wrenching when her family, village and country are torn apart by upheaval and violence. Her ability to climb trees saves her life, but also creates conflict for her. This is a true story as told by the real Gabriela to the author. The author does not attempt to sanitize the story, which might make the story difficult for some. I found her story incredibly sad, but an affirmation of the human spirit.
Reed Reads Score: 4

I, Jack by Jack the dog (as told to Patricia Finney)

2006-08-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

At first, I questioned the premise - a book written in the voice of a dog? Ultimately, I found the book funny and "believable". The author has captured what might be a canine's voice. Even cat lovers will find this book fun as Jack's "funny-looking dog" friends add their comments throughout the book in footnotes. The story is about Jack's "pack", comprised of apedogs, and the love of his life, Petra, the dog next door. Jack is often confused by the apedogs' behavior, but is always loyal. He soon discovers that he will be the master of his own pack and meets the challenge of his responsibilities.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Shakespeare Bats Cleanup by Ron Koertge

2006-08-08T15:14:00.000-07:00

Kevin Boland is a star high school baseball player. He has been diagnosed with Mono, and must remain in bed for several weeks. His father, a professional writer, gives him a book that teaches the form and structure of poetry. Kevin decides to keep a journal to pass time, and does so experimenting with different forms of poetry. His writing becomes sensitive and introspective where topics range from baseball, to girls, and eventually to his sorrow over the death of his mother. A good quick read. Most of the novels (at least the ones I've read) that use the free verse format are written in a female voice. This book is a rare one, not only because it is written in a male voice, but because it explores different forms of poetry. An English teacher could use this novel as a spring board for a poetry unit.
Reed Reads Score: 4
A sequel has been released; Shakespeare Makes the Playoffs

Emako Blue by Brenda Woods

2006-08-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

Emako is a beautiful, bright and talented high school senior that is brutally murdered by gangs in central L.A. Her story is told in the five different voices of friends attending her funeral. A poignant story that forces us to look at the effects that senseless murder has upon our youth. The voices range from painful sorrow to cold indifference.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Tru Confessions by Janet Tashjian

2006-08-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

How could a devoted sister find a cure for her mentally handicapped little brother by shooting a video? That is what 12 year old Tru (short for Trudy) attempts to do when she learns that a local cable station is accepting entries for ideas for a possible T.V. show. Tru decides to follow her developmentaly handicapped brother with a video camera to record his daily life. Tru learns about her brother, his handicap, and complexities of life in this light hearted look at a serious subject. I know many students will enjoy the humor and the journal format of this book. For me, the story was a bit simplistic, but the humor will appeal to many students.
Reed Reads Score: 3.5

What Would Joey Do? by Jack Gantos

2006-08-08T14:57:00.000-07:00

Sadly, this is the last book of the Joey Pigza trilogy. Joey is a good-hearted young man who has his ADHD (hyperactiviy) under control. In this book you meet Olivia, a blind girl that Joey is being home-schooled with. Olivia is mean and has it in for Joey. Joey must also deal with her wacky, selfish, and screwed up parents. The only person who centers his life is granny. If you have read the other Joey Pigza books, this is a must read. If you haven't read any of the Joey books, what are you waiting for?
Reed Reads Score: 5

The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown

2006-08-08T14:42:00.000-07:00

I felt this adult best-seller might be of interest to our more mature readers. A murder-mystery-thriller involving the Priory Sion, and ancient secret society, and Opus Dei, a fundamental Catholic order. One of those can't put it down thrillers. While sex is implied, there are no direct scenes, and the language is relatively mild. If a reader can handle the length, and is interested in the subject matter, why not? There are two versions available, the regular hard back, and the illustrated version which shows all the art work mentioned in the book. I recommend the illustrated version if your knowledge of the arts is limited.
Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Green Angel by Alice Hoffman

2006-08-08T14:41:00.000-07:00

Green is a quiet 16 year-old girl who witnesses the destruction of her family, when they are killed in a 9/11 like tragedy. Her loss is too much for her to deal with; her demeanor and attitude becoming darker as the despair, grief, and lonliness sets in. She expresses herself through the tatoos she carves into her skin and the thorned clothes she wears. While depressed by the anarchy and emptiness around her, she eventually sees hope and renewal. This book has been extremely popular with students, both boys and girls.
Reed Reads Score: 4
Added note, read the new sequel; Green Witch

Granny Torelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech

2006-08-08T14:29:00.000-07:00

Rosie and Granny are in the kitchen making soup. You can feel the warmth of their relationship and smell the wonderful soup that is the background of the story. But, Granny senses something is wrong with Rosie. Granny is able to get Rosie to reveal that she has had a falling out with her best-friend-for-life, Bailey. There are many lessons here about friendship and loyalty all told in Granny's kitchen.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Inside Out by Terry Trueman

2006-08-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

Zach is meeting his mother in the diner as usual. Two sixteen-year-olds decide to rob the diner, and hold its patrons as hostage. What they don't know is that Zach is a suicidal schizophrenic. He has little understanding of what is happening and is constantly haunted by strange voices in his head. Through Zach we find out why these boys are robbing the diner, and the help they seek. A powerful story, told through Zach's eyes.
Reed Reads Score: 5

Flavor of the Week by Tucker Shaw

2006-08-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

Cyril is a high school senior, an outstanding chef, overweight, and madly in love with Rose. Rose sees Cyril as a good friend. Cyril's best friend Nick meets and falls for Rose. Nick asks Cyril to prepare a romantic meal for Rose. Here the Cyrano de Bergerac like charade begins as Rose falls head over heels for Nick, believing he is a sensitive guy that can cook and be romantic. Can you tell where this is going? The most interesting part of the book are the recipes at the end of each chapter. I have to try the Kitchen-Sink cookies, and the roasted vegetable sandwich!
Reed Reads Score: 4

ChaseR: A Novel in Emails by Michael J. Rosen

2006-08-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

Chase Riley's parents have decided to leave urban Columbus, Ohio and move to a rural farm. Disconnected from his friends, he communicates with them by email. The story is told through his emails, which communicate a world shockingly different than the one he came from. The insects, the mice, the deer, and the hunting season all present a different reality for Chase. A reality he is learning to live with, until an accident happens.... The story was interesting but not compelling. The novelty of the email format was not enough to hold my interest. Just an o.k. read.
Reed Reads Score: 3

The Glass Café by Gary Paulsen

2006-08-08T14:08:00.000-07:00

Tony is a gifted artist. His mother, Al, is an ideal parent. She is loving, supportive, yet firm in her relationship with Tony. The only catch is that she is a dancer at an adult club. Tony is given the chance to draw some of the other women that work with his mother. When his art teacher sees the pictures, she deems them so outstanding, she enters them in an art contest. A complaint is filed because the pictures are judged as pornographic. Social Services come to take Tony from his mother...which is where the real story starts. The book is fresh, fun, and takes a serious look at the social service system.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelson

2006-08-08T14:07:00.000-07:00

Cole Matthews has been in serious trouble his whole life. Now, after brutally beating a boy to the point that he causes severe brain damage, he must pay the price. He is given a choice to either face the criminal justice system, or face Circle Justice; a Native American tradition that gives the victum and the offender an opportunity to heal. His sentence is to spend one year on a desolate Alaskan island. Cole thinks that his sentence is light, and can easily be escaped. His anger and attitude have not changed...until he meets "Spirtit Bear". I read this book relunctanly, perhaps it was the title that turned me off. The surprise was how much I enjoyed it. Read it for the adventure, but also read it for the insights into human nature.
Reed Reads Score: 4.5

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

2006-08-08T13:55:00.000-07:00

A beautifully told tale of a young mouse who commits the mortal sin of having contact with the human world. Even more condemning is that he has fallen madly in love with a human, Princess Pea. The mouse council finds him guilty and sends him to the dungeon to be eaten by rats. This is just the beginning of a tale that is beautifully written, every word perfectly chosen. This is one to enjoy, savor, and read aloud over and over again! Newbery award winner.
Reed Reads Score: 5

Brian's Hunt by Gary Paulsen

2006-08-08T13:51:00.000-07:00

Brian's Hunt, another sequel to Hatchet, has Brian returning to the wilderness. We learn how Brian is an expert at survival and the hunt, He finds a dog, determines it belongs to his Cree friends, goes to visit them and finds their campground empty. Brian then embarks on a "hunt" to unravel the mystery.This book is bogged down with extensive detail about surviving in the wilderness. I felt that the author was putting forth his justification for hunting rather than writing a good story. I did not enjoy this book.
Reed Reads Score: 2

The First Part Last by Angela Johnson

2006-08-08T13:41:00.000-07:00

The topic of teen pregnancy is covered from the point of view of the father, in this case, sixteen year old Bobby. A realistic and touching view of how fatherhood changes Bobby's life in expected and unexpected ways. What I liked is that Bobby is middle class with a solid and supportive family, rather than the stereotypical underprivlidged or troubled youth that typifies this genre. The 2004 Printz Award Winner
Reed Reads Score: 3.5

Tiger's Fall by Molly Bang

2005-09-13T21:26:00.001-07:00

Lupe, nicknamed Tiger, takes a dare to climb a tree. Careless, and carefree, Lupe falls from the tree and becomes paralyzed from the waist down. Lupe is at first depressed and unwilling to accept her disability to get on with life. At a rehabilitation center she discovers her "calling" and is able to accept her disability. I found this a surprisingly enjoyable read.
Reed Reads Score: 4

Angel Factory by Terence Blacker

2005-08-12T21:19:00.000-07:00

Thomas Wisdom is a seemingly perfect person, living in a seemingly perfect family. Influenced by his best friend, Thomas begins to question his perfect world. Two discoveries turn his life upside down, forcing Thomas to make decisions that have cosmic implications. A great read for science fiction fans. Forces the reader to think (as all good science fiction does). My only problem with the book is that Thomas is mature far beyond his twelve years.
Reed Reads Score: 4.5

Crusader by Thomas Bloor

2005-07-28T21:04:00.000-07:00

Roberta's mother was murdered seven years ago. Her father has gone into the arcade business with his brother. Roberta and her family run the arcade. What follows is a myriad of events that eventually lead to Roberta's solution to her mother's murder. The problem with the book is how long it takes, and all the side stories the reader must get through to come to the solution. Read Tangerine , a far superior work by Bloor.
Reed Reads Score: 1.5

Tyler on Prime Time by Steve Atinsky

2005-06-17T20:57:00.000-07:00

Tyler is forced to spend his summer vacation with uncle Pete, who happens to be a writer for a hit television comedy. Tyler decides that he wants to audition for a new part on the show. Readers will be interested in the somewhat contrived way of telling how a TV show is produced. It is no surprise that Mr. Atinsky writes for television. The book will hold your interest, is funny and at times warm.
Reed Reads Score: 3

The Island by Gary Paulsen

2005-05-23T20:51:00.000-07:00

Wil is forced to move to a small rural town, leaving friends and school. What at first seems dreadful turns into an adventure of self discovery when Wil finds a small island in a lake. He discovers a special place for learning, contemplation and a new awareness of himself, nature, new found friends and family.
Reed Reads Score: 3.5