Tiger Reviews

Lemony Snicket's The Bad Beginning: A Review by Adriana!

2012-02-03T12:51:00.000-08:00

The main characters in this story are Violet, Klaus, and Sunny. They are trying to keep their life happy. One of the most important events is that their parents die in a horrible fire and now they're living with their horrible uncle. I liked this book because it is very interesting and you could read it fast. You should read this book because it has a lot of mystery and horror.

Rick Riordan's The Son of Neptune: A Review by Taylan!

2012-02-02T12:49:00.003-08:00

There is a boy named Percy Jackson. Somehow he travels to the Romans. He is trying to get his memory back. When he is trying to get back home he finds a homeless person on a street because someone is chasing Percy. Then Percy asks for her name and it is Juno. They find Roman cabins after that they meet people named Frank and Hazel. They notice Juno is a goddess (they actually said her name is Jupiter but Percy did not know that). Later in the story Percy makes a bet with with his uncle to see which Gorgon’s blood was bad so they drink it. Percy's uncle died; the only good reason because his uncle kept on whacking the harpies with a whacking stick. So Percy has to save them with the bet of drinking the Gorgon’s blood. I like this book because it has action, fighting and the bad guys get disintegrated. You should read this book because they are different series. Another reason why is you won’t be bored since there is lots of action and mystery.

Dave Pelzer's A Child Called "It": A Review by Christopher O.!

2012-01-20T12:36:00.000-08:00

A Child Called "It" by Dave Pelzer is about one child's courage to survive. The child's name is Dave. Dave takes beatings, his mother tries burning him, he sleeps in the basement, he eats nothing, he gets poop thrown in his face, and he gets no respect for his chores. Can Dave survive through his pain and his mother's not trusting him? I liked this book because a child goes through pain, but he still may survive through all the suffering that his mother makes him go through.

Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules: A Review by Christian W.!

2011-12-07T12:19:00.000-08:00

The book is about Greg who is bullied by his older brother Rodrick. Rodrick always does stuff wrong at his parents' house. He's rude, messy, and not smart. But Greg is smart and doesn't get in trouble. He has a friend named Rowely who sometimes messes up and embarrasses Greg. This book brought me happiness. I like this book because it has action and it is always funny. Someone should read this book because they should read new books. And I suggest you always read.

William Golding's Lord of the Flies: A Review by Cecilia!

2011-12-02T10:09:00.000-08:00

The book Lord of the Flies is about a boy called Ralph who finds himself on an island with a chubby boy with asthma and glasses called Piggy, when a wave washes a fancy conch shell onto Ralph’s feet, Piggy encourages Ralph to blow the conch … so he does. Minutes later a bunch of boys come, but no adults. Without rules or authority they all started arguing and fighting, and then a boy gets murdered. After a while Ralph and Piggy gave up. I loved this book because it was not predictable. I recommend this book to people who like surprises.

J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone: A Review by Ahmed!

2011-12-02T10:00:00.000-08:00

The main character is Harry Potter and it takes place at both Hogwarts, a school for wizards, and his uncle’s and aunt’s house. When he was a little baby a person called Lord Voldemort killed his mom and dad and tried to kill Harry, but failed, leaving him with a scar and fame. Once he discovered his own magic powers, Harry gets accepted to Hogwarts where they teach you magic. At Hogwarts there is another guy named Malfoy and he is always jealous of Harry. Can Harry find the Sorcerer's Stone?

I liked this book because there’s horror and it has adventure which I love. Also I like to learn about magic. I recommend this book to people who love magic, horror and adventure.

H. G. Wells's The War of the Worlds: A Review by Sam H., edited by Ms. Hernandez!

2011-10-26T12:54:00.001-07:00

H.G Wells’s The War of The Worlds starts with the writer telling the reader how clueless we were to the martians watching us from their planet. They watched us grow while their planet died and they eventually come to Earth to exterminate us for their survival, although they say we have done the same thing to the Dodo, the Native Americans, and etc. (but not for our own survival). Then the writer kicks into a first person view of the night him and his friend Ogilvy, an astronomer, saw the shots from Mars and flaming spouts "like flaming gas rushing out of the barrel of a gun," while in Ogilvy’s attic looking through a telescope. This happened ten times. A few days after, one shot struck near them, and Ogilvy found the first cylinder. This book is a good one because the writer is writing as if it really happened and he was a witness to these events, and is not the main character, because there is no main character, like anything would happen. He also switches to his brother’s view for two chapters, and writes very, well, scientifically, and I would suggest you read it.

Go Ask Alice: A Review by Maya!

2011-10-26T10:51:00.001-07:00

Go Ask Alice is supposedly a true diary of a 15 year old drug user. While this story is thrilling and a link to the scary world of drugs, it has recently been proven to be false. It’s not that hard to tell that it is fiction even without the comfort of Wikipedia. I’m not saying not to read though. Every time the protagonist tries a new drug, meets a new boy or a brand new friend, or runs away stoned, you travel with her and hear her amazing story. All in all, this was a fabulous book with a great story to follow, but you must keep in mind that this is just a piece of fiction written in the 1970’s as a “horror” story to keep young kids, like the one in the book, away from drugs.

Jerry Spinelli's Maniac Magee: A Review by Yosan, Bouchra, Nicole, Amrit, and Valerie!

2011-10-26T10:44:00.000-07:00

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli is realistic fiction about a kid named Jeffrey Magee. When his parents die in a trolley accident, he moves in with his Aunt Dot and Uncle Dan. He runs away from their house to the East End of Two Mills. What he doesn't know is that the East End is the black side of town, and he is white. He earns the name Maniac in his efforts to bring the blacks and whites together. We enjoyed all the characters how they were all real. We felt like we were in the book. You should read this if you like action.

Walter Dean Myer's Slam!: A Review by Ahmed!

2011-10-26T09:49:00.000-07:00

Slam! by Walter Dean Myers is a sports adventure and a little bit of romance. The main character Slam is faced with the challenge of playing his old school in the basketball championship, facing his half brother Ice. But if Slam doesn't get good grades he can’t play basketball. He is currently failing five of his classes in school, so he might not be able to play. At the same time, Slam has a girlfriend called Mistha and they go out and they also have problems. I like this book because it has action, romance and adventure. Also, you want to know whats going to happen next. You should read this book if you like basketball and action.

James Collier's My Brother Sam is Dead: A Review by Mariano!

2011-10-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

Tim Meeker has a family of four and he is the youngest. His brother Sam has joined the American Revolution and his father's mad at him. Tim want to fight with Sam but if he joins Sam, it's fighting his brother and joining his father is fighting his brother. I like this book because it has a lot of feelings and because most of it is true. I think someone would like this book because it is good!

Jeff Kinney's The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: How Greg Heffley Went to Hollywood: A Review by Rudy G.!

2011-04-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

When you see a movie, you probably might think that it is fun and easy. But actually, it can be pretty hard. Learn how a movie gets actually made, like the movie Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Author and illustrator Jeff Kinney will guide you to see EVERYTHING. Want to be an actor on a famous movie? See interesting facts how an actor has to do hard things. I like this book because it actually even tells you that some interesting fact is that they used three schools to make just one school!!!!! You should read this if you're curious to see how they make a big Hollywood movie.

Neil Gaiman's Coraline: A Review by Rudy G.!

2011-04-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

Neil Gaiman's Coraline is an extraordinary fairytale/nightmare story that will shock you. When Coraline Jones moves into a new house, she gets bored because her parents won't even listen to her. But when she finds a door that leads into something, she gets curious of it. She goes into the door, and everything's better: the food, the neighbors--everything. But her "other mother" wants to keep her...forever. Coraline must save herself by saving her parents, three souls, and herself from getting their eyes sewed with buttons. I like this book a lot because it is a fairy tale (which I don't usually like) but it's in nightmare form. I also like the movie, but there are MANY differences. You should read the book and watch the motion picture. There are a lot of differences between them. It's pretty interesting.

Pam Muñoz Ryan's Paint the Wind: A Review by Clara Z.!

2011-03-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

Maya is an orphan and lives with her grandma. Maya's grandma always has to have things her way: all of the lawn chairs and fences must be white. The only thing Maya has to remind her of her mother is an old shoe box with some toy horses and a photo of her mother on a horse. Then suddenly her grandma falls ill and Maya must go live with her aunt and grandpa. I really like this book because it shows how Maya gets away from her "properness". I think someone should read this book because it can really bring you into the story. It's kind of like you are in the book and seeing what happens.

Kara Dalkey's Little Sister: A Review by Alexa!

2011-03-07T12:51:00.000-08:00

*This book is NOT available at the Longfellow Middle School Library, but it is available for check out at the Berkeley Public Library*

Little Sister, a novel by Kara Dalkey, is an intriguing story that takes place in Japan and tells the story of a noble girl named Mitsuko. In the story, her sister, Amaiko marries a relative of the emperor, a man named Yugiri. Everything seems to be going well for their family until Yugiri is killed while trying to defend Amaiko and her sisters (including Mitsuko) from warrior monks. Amaiko's soul seems to be looking for Yugiri's after this; Mitsuko, as the caring little sister she is, tries to find and return the two souls, before Amaiko, soul and body, is gone. I enjoyed how challenging yet how descriptively entertaining this story was. I also enjoyed how the author used simple sentences that used luscious language to tell the story, making me feel as if I was there. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys adventurous, touching accounts of how far siblings will go fro each other in a difficult situation.

Natalie Babbitt Tuck Everlasting: A Review by Krystal!

2011-03-07T12:44:00.000-08:00

Winnie Foster is a curious, bored ten year old who decides she wants to run away. One day she decides to take a walk in the woods and passes along a mysterious spring and a boy drinking from it. She decides to take a drink but the boy refuses to allow her. Soon she finds herself being taken away on a horse by crazy strangers who claim they are 100 years old, but look about 40. Who are these people and why are they so protective over the spring? I like this book because it contains mystery and excitement.

Justine Larbalestier and Holly Black's compilation of stories Zombies vs. Unicorns: A Review by Khalil!

2011-02-10T10:29:00.000-08:00

*This book is NOT available at the Longfellow Middle School Library, but it is available for check out at the Berkeley Public Library*

This book is a collection of stories ranging from medieval to the distant future. It was written by a number of writers such as Holly Black, author of the bestselling Spiderwick series. My favorite stories are "Purity Test" by Naomi Novik and "Bougainvillea" by Carrie Ryan. I like this book because it is anthology of zombie stories and unicorn stories. This is a good book to read if you like horror, humor and fantasy.

Darren Shan's Birth of a Killer: A Review by Khalil!

2011-02-10T10:18:00.000-08:00

*This book is NOT available at the Longfellow Middle School Library, but it is available for check out at the Berkeley Public Library*

Larten, a boy raised in a very impoverished family with an abusive mother is forced into working at a silk factory with a horrible boss. He is then chased out of town after killing his boss who has murdered his cousin. When sleeping in a crypt, he meets a vampire who then takes him on mind bogglingly exciting adventures. I like this book because it is the prequel to one of my favorite series, the bestselling Cirque Du Freak saga. You should read this book because it is an immensely well written book, full of suspense and horror.

Christopher Paolini's Eldest: A Review by Arlo!

2011-02-10T09:48:00.000-08:00

Note: This is the second book in the Inheritance Trilogy.
After the battle of Farthen Dûr, Eragon goes to the elves to complete his training. But Eragon also owes his service to the Varden and the dwarves. Also, Roran and the people in Carvahall are being attacked by the empires' soldiers who decide to escape. I like this book because it has a very fast tempo and it is a very good sequel to Eragon. Only read this book if you have read Eragon. Read this book if you like medieval battles, magic and good versus evil.

Nick Hornby's Slam: A Review by Sebastian!

2011-02-09T12:55:00.000-08:00

*Rated PG 13 for swearing* (Sebastian's rating)

In the book Slam by Nick Hornby, teenager Sam meets Alicia and falls in love with her. Then, unfortunately they start having sex, protected at first, but after Alicia gets pregnant because of "that once" Sam must decide whether to help care for their child or run away from it all. I liked this book because it talks loosely about a topic that generally makes people tense up. If you're looking for a deep, serious novel that's playful at the same time, Slam is right for you.

Christopher Paolini's Eragon: A Review by Arlo!

2011-02-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

Eragon is a poor farmer living within an evil empire. His whole live changes when he finds a blue stone while he is hunting for the winter. I like this book because it is about dragons and medieval times. I also like it because it has magic in it. You should read this book if you like fantasy, action and magic.

Theodore Taylor's The Cay: A Review by Anndrea!

2011-01-27T13:03:00.000-08:00

A boy lost his mother and father in a boat accident. The boy's name was Phillip and he was trying to survive on his own. This guy he met named Timothy knew how to survive. He set traps, get fish and he also taught Phillip some things on how to survive. I like this book because it's adventurous and it's a good book. You should read this book because you will like it.

Ellen Hopkin's Crank: A Review by Chyna!

2011-01-27T12:50:00.000-08:00

Crank is about a girl named Kristina. Kristina moves in with her father, but comes to find out Kristina's dad is on drugs. Later on, Kristina begins to start taking the white stuff called crank. I like this book because it has a message to people about the life of being on drugs. I think that people should read Crank because it has a message and that can help a person in life.

Sharon Flake's Money Hungry: A Review by Anndrea!

2011-01-27T12:39:00.000-08:00

Raspberry is a girl that has three close friends and she loves money. Her friends say that she will do anything for money. Raspberry's mother threw all of Raspberry's money out the window because she was mad at her. Before they moved into that apartment they lived on the streets. I liked this book because it was very interesting and it grabbed my attention. Someone should read this book because it's a really great book.

Chris Wooding's Poison: A Review by Krystal!

2011-01-27T11:29:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to save her kidnapped sister, Poison goes on a dangerous journey to the Phaerie Lord. On the way she faces many life threatening obstacles, one involving an old blind witch. Poison was warned about the many dangers, will she listen? Or will she risk her life for her beloved baby sister to save her from her fate? I love this book because it is an adventure. Someone who loves adventure and horror will love this book.

James Patterson's Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment: A Review by Sam!

2011-01-27T11:13:00.000-08:00

This is a book about six kids who have wings. The main character is Max. Her brothers and sisters are Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gasman, and Angel. One day, Angel is captured and the rest of them go on an adventure to find her. I like this book because it has lots of funny and cool scenes. You should read this book because it is exciting and dramatic.

Jeff Stone's Monkey: A Review by Sam!

2011-01-27T11:02:00.000-08:00

This book is about five brothers who were raised in a temple learning kung fu. But their temple is destroyed and they are all separated. This book follows the adventures of Malao, the youngest brother. I like this book because it is exciting and cool. You should read this book because it is really cool and a good book.

Rick Riordan's The Lost Hero: A Review by Christian!

2011-01-26T12:28:00.000-08:00

This is a story of a boy named Jason who wakes up in a bus holding the hand of a girl who he doesn't even recognize. He also supposedly has a friend named Leo. Then Jason figures out he has to work with these people to save Mount Olympus from the horrible giant named Porphyrion, As Jason is on his quest he discovers he has a sister and a horrible family secret that has been held in for thirteen years. This book has juicy details and has a pack of adventure. I like this book because it is about Greek mythology, which I love. I'm not forcing you to read this book, but I'm just saying if you want a good book with adventure and mythology, this is the book for you.

John Flanagan's The Ranger's Apprentice, #8: The Kings of Clonmel: A Review by Mohamed!

2011-01-25T12:52:00.000-08:00

Will, Halt, and Horace are back for another dangerous adventure. They are going to a castle that is ruled by Halt's twin brother, Ferris. They are trying to stop Tennyson from taking the castle away from his brother. Will they be able to stop Tennyson? Read it to find out. I really liked this book because there was a lot of action. If you really like a mixture of adventure and action you will really like this book.

Markus Zusak's The Book Thief: A Review by Flynn!

2011-01-25T12:41:00.000-08:00

Liesel is a child growing up in Nazi Germany. Her life is sprinkled with sadness and struggle. She does what she needs to do to survive. But when her brother dies and her mother is taken away, she is forced to an unknown place, where sad and happy things come to find her. I loved this book because it was highly emotional and full of power. I think YOU should read this book because you will enjoy it and it will make you think about life.

Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games: A Review by Flynn!

2011-01-25T12:36:00.000-08:00

Katniss is a girl 16 years of age. She lives in the futuristic, distant, disturbed land of District Twelve. She has to illegally hunt jut to feed her family. But when she enters the Hunger Games, a televised event in which 24 children fight to the death, everything changes. I loved this book because it has action, suspense, gore and romance. You should read this book because it is highly entertaining and leaves you wanting more.

Eric Schlosser and Charles Wilson's Chew On This: Everything You Don't Want to Know About Fast Food: A Review by Nathan!

2011-01-21T12:34:00.000-08:00

Do you know what you eat? In Chew on This, Eric Schlosser and Charles Wilson explain what you eat, from both the businessman's point of view and the health inspector's point of view. This book is great because I feel like the authors really did their research and pointed out every flaw of the fast food companies. If you are curious about what's behind the counter at McDonald's or Jack in the Box, this is the book for you.

Claudia Gray's Evernight: A Review by Keyani!

2011-01-13T09:57:00.001-08:00

Bianca had to go to a different school because she needed to be more independent. What Bianca didn't know was that she was a vampire. When Bianca left her house she met a boy named Lucas while running away from him. I like this book because it's full of mystery and adventure. I also enjoy a great vampire book. You should read this book because it has a lot of academic words and you don't know what's going to happen next.

J. R. R. Tolkien's The Return of the King: A Review by !

2011-01-04T14:29:00.000-08:00

Saruman is defeated, now only Sauron stands in the way for peace in Middle Earth. Although before that, now Gondor is in trouble especially the city of Minith Tirith. They have to fight for Gondor, but great danger is near especially since Nazgul is alive. Will Gondor fall or will it stand? Read this book to find out. I liked this book because it has more action than the first and second book. I think any person should read this book to think of all the places and all of the adventures

Brian Jacques' Mattimeo: A Review by Jason!

2011-01-04T13:49:00.000-08:00

In Mattimeo a fox named Slagar the Cruel tricks the Redwallers into letting him and his cruel "performers" into Redwall. After, he slips a sleeping powder into the Redwallers' drinks and then he kidnaps their young ones and Mattimeo, Matthias' son. Slagar tries to stop them from following him and Matthias and the young ones' parents must go through many challenges. Eventually, Slagar reaches his destination and sells the kids into slavery. Their parents must fight evil rats to get their young ones back. I found Mattimeo to be very exciting because of the hardships they must face. You should read this book because it is very entertaining and fun to read.

J. R. R. Tolkien's Two Towers: A Review by Mariano!

2011-01-04T13:13:00.000-08:00

Merry and Pippen are captured by the Uruk-hai. Meanwhile, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli are trying to save them from Saruman. Meanwhile, Frodo and Sam are making their way to Mordor to cast away the ring. After Merry and Pippen run away from the battle of Rohan they run into Fangorn Forest, but Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli are trying to catch up with them. On the way, they meet someone they thought they had lost. I like this book because it has a lot of adventure. You should read this book because it is interesting and captures someone's mind.

J. R. R. Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring: A Review by Mariano!

2011-01-04T12:16:00.000-08:00

Great evil is back. Sauron is back with the ring. Lost for millions of years, the ring is found by a strange creature: a hobbit named Bilbo Baggins. After keeping the ring hidden he gives it to his nephew Frodo Baggins. Gandalf comes and does some research and discovers that the ring is evil. So Gandalf tells Frodo to hide it and go off on a journey. The journey will lead him to new companions, they will meet elves, dwarves, men, hobbits, and wizards. They will fight to destroy the one ring at Mordor , the Mountain of Doom. I like this book because it is an adventure. You should read this book because it makes you float off and think about it, plus it is worth 29 points.

Brian Jacques' Redwall: A Review by Jason!

2011-01-03T12:34:00.000-08:00

Cluny the Scourge, an evil rat, tries to take over Redwall: a peaceful abbey where woodland animals can live. While Redwall is under siege by Cluny and his horde, Matthias, a young mouse, tries to find the sword of Martin, Redwall's famous long dead warrior. Matthias must solve riddles, fight an adder and be taken captive by sparrows along the way to find Martin's sword to fight Cluny. I like this book because I like animals and it is very intriguing. You should read this book because it is very interesting and addictive and it is a very fun read.

Gary Paulsen's Hatchet: A Review by Mariano!

2011-01-03T12:27:00.000-08:00

Brian lives with his mom, but when he was younger his parents got divorced. His father now lives far away, so Brian decides to visit him. He is going on an airplane but the pilot has a heart attack in the middle of nowhere and the plane crashes into the water. Will Brian be able to survive in the wilderness? I like this book because it is a survival book and it is a cool book. I think you should read this book to see how it would feel to live in the middle of nowhere.

Sarah Forbes Bonetta's At Her Majesty's Request: A Review by Julia!

2010-12-02T13:00:00.000-08:00

At Her Majesty's Request is about a girl named Sarah who was born in Africa and who got captured by Dahomey's. A man who works for the queen of England takes her back to England and saved her. This book is very good because it is the biography of Sarah, Queen Victoria's adopted god-daughter. You should read this book because it is historical nonfiction and people will find it fascinating.

Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth: A Review by Rudy, edited by Ms. Hernandez!

2010-11-22T13:03:00.000-08:00

Jeff Kinney's #1 saga, Diary of the Wimpy Kid has a new sequel to it! In the fifth book, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth, Greg and his weirdly friend Rowley end their relationship at the beginning of the book. After their non-school party, Greg ends up with Rowley and no one else there. Could Greg have his relationship with Rowley back, or will this be the end of their friendship? I like this book because it has humor to it and a lot of funny miserable things happen. You should read it if you're a #1 Wimpy Kid fan. So check it out today here at the Longfellow Library!

Gabrielle Zevin's Elsewhere: A Review by Aniya!

2010-11-18T13:00:00.000-08:00

A girl named Liz has just died and she awakes on a bed in a ship. The ship she is on a trip to a place called Elsewhere. Elsewhere has talking dogs and binoculars that let you see the living. I like this book because it slowly sucks you in, once you are sucked in you can't get out. You should read this book because it is about the living and rebirth.

Rick Riordan's The Last Olympian: A Review by Mohamed edited by Ms. Hernandez!

2010-11-18T12:50:00.000-08:00

In the last book of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series Percy, now 16 years old, has only one way to defeat Kronos. The plan that Nico gave him was to bathe in the River Styx. But also he could die if he could not hold it. This book takes place in New York. The gods can't help Percy and his friends because they are busy fighting the worst monster: the Typhon. I like this book because it is an adventure and there is violence. You should read this book if you like adventure and violence.

Melissa de la Cruz's Masquerade: a Blue Bloods Novel: A Review by Ke'yani!

2010-11-10T11:17:00.000-08:00

Masquerade is about vampires. There are silver bloods who are now killing vampires and sucking out the life of them. Vampires are trying to find out about the silver bloods because they are starting to kill the young blue bloods. I like this book because it is scary and cool at the same time. I like scary stories. You should read this book because it is good and it seems real at the same time.

Melissa de la Cruz's Blue Bloods: A Review by Ke'yani!

2010-11-10T11:11:00.000-08:00

Blue Bloods is basically about vampires. There is a girl named Mimi in this book who you will find out about. She has these flashbacks about how she thinks she lived a life in the far past, before she was even born! I like this book because I'm into vampires and mystery books. You should read this book because it's not what you hear on a regular basis.

Lauren Barnholdt's The Secret Identity of Devon Delaney: A Review by Leah!

2010-11-08T11:53:00.000-08:00

Devon Delaney is a girl in 7th grade that is very smart. When she meets a girl named Lexi, she tells Lexi about all these wonderful things about her life at school. Devon tells Lexi that she has a boyfriend and she is popular. All of these things aren't even true. Now that Lexi is going to Devon's school, will Devon have to tell Lexi the truth? I like this book because people can relate to it and it is really funny. I think girls are really going to like this book because it's funny and it teaches you to make good choices.

Lisi Harrison's Invasion of the Boy Snatchers: A Review by Nandi!

2010-11-08T11:48:00.000-08:00

This book is about a girl named Massie Block and her friends (Dylan, Alicia, Kristen and Claire). Everything is going all good until Alicia's cousin Nina comes along and ruins it. Massie gets intimidated by Nina because she is always flirting with the boy who Massie wants her first kiss with (Derrington). Massie and Claire come up with "Operation Toejam" to get back at Nina. I like this book because it is very realistic and it relates to some people I know. People should read this book because it could relate to them too.

Diane Zahler's The Thirteenth Things: A Review by Clara Z.!

2010-11-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

Zita is a servant girl and thinks she is an orphan. She does not know that the king is her father and the beautiful princesses are her sisters. But for some reason, everyone protects her. It takes eleven years for her to finally figure out that she is related to the princesses. But all of a sudden, her sisters falls mysteriously ill and it is up to Zita to save them. I liked this book because it shows that not all princesses have to be helpless and only have to marry and have kids. I think someone would really like this book because that everyone can work hard. I also think they should read the book if they like stories about magic and death.

Carolyn Mackler's The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things: A Review by Julia!

2010-11-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things is about a girl named Virginia Shreves who has a "larger than average body." Her mom is a successful adolescent psychologist. For Virginia, one single phone call ruins everything. I like this book because it is humorous and you can relate to it. You should read this book because it is hilarious to read about Virginia and her adventures.

Mike Lupica's The Million Dollar Throw: A Review by Michael edited by Ms. Hernandez!

2010-11-02T13:03:00.000-07:00

Nate Brodie is 13 and is a really good football player. But life gets rough when his parents' house is being taken by the government and his friend Abby has an eye disease that will one day cause her to go blind. One day he is given the chance to to throw a football and might win a million dollars. Most importantly, if he does win, what will he buy? Will all that money make things better? I like this book because it has a lot of drama and makes you appreciate hard work and life! You should read this book because it makes you love what you have and it makes you think about what it means to be a real TRUE FRIEND.

Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief: A Review by Rudy!

2010-11-02T12:54:00.001-07:00

This is the first book of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. When Percy finds out he is a demigod, Grover brings him to a camp called Camp Half-Blood. He also meets other people like him. But then, Zeus is mad since somebody stole his lightning bolt. Who is it? Find out as they lead to a new adventure. This book was great since it's also a major motion picture. First, read the book and see the movie (for those of you who have not seen it yet) and see what's the difference!

Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Titan's Curse: A Review by Rudy!

2010-11-01T13:00:00.000-07:00

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Titan's Curse is the third book in the phenomenal series. In this case, Grover warns Percy that two unknown half-bloods could be in danger; Percy, Annabeth and Thalia are on their way. Then, after their capture-the-flag game, they are offered to go on a quest by the Oracle to find the goddess of the hunt and...somebody else. This book is great because you get to know other people. You should read this book because it is perfect for 4.0 readers. People should read this book if you love fantasy, adventure and mythology.

R. L. Stine's Beach House: A Review by Aniya!

2010-10-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

A strange kid arrives in town. After he arrives murders begin to occur among a group of friends. First it is Maria. Who will be the first to go? Who is this strange person? You have to read to find out! I like this book because it is very surprising, you don't know what will happen next. This is a great book. If you like R. L. Stine you will love this book.

Roald Dahl's BFG: A Review by Tyler!

2010-10-25T13:22:00.000-07:00

The giant pulls a little girl out of her bed. Then he takes her to where he lives. After, they become best friends. I like this book because it is about huge giants who are friends with humans. You should read this book because it is really interesting and it tells you different things about giants.

Alvin Schwartz's Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark: A Review by Aniya!

2010-10-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

This book is filled to the brim with scary stories. It is okay if you read this in the morning, but if you want the true effect of this book wait till midnight when all the haunts and ghouls come out. I like this book because it is straight up scary. It will give anyone a good scare. You should read this book because it is just fun to read.

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Thanks for the review Aniya! Unfortunately, we do not have a copy of this book at the Longfellow Library, but we do have a copy of More Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark also by Alvin Schwartz.

Lisi Harrison's It's Not Easy Being Mean: A Review by Aniya!

2010-10-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

Skye Hamilton is doing a contest to see who can find a key. But not only do you find a key, it unlocks a school paradise. Also, whoever find the key becomes the next 8th grade alpha. I like this book because it is short, but full of excitement. You should read this book because once you start it is hard to stop.

Andy Griffiths' The Day My Butt Went Psycho: A Review by Aniya!

2010-10-18T12:45:00.000-07:00

A boy named Zack has lost his butt many times but this is the worst. Zack's butt is planning to take over the human race and put butts where your head is. Now Zack has to stop his butt before it is too late. Will Zack be able to stop his butt? You have to read to find out. I like this book because it is really funny. This is the most funny book I have ever read in my life. If you like comedy you will love this book.

Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Sea of Monsters: A Review by Rodolfo "Rudy"!

2010-10-18T12:31:00.001-07:00

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Sea of Monsters is the second in the series of Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief. When Percy has strange dreams about his satyr friend, Grover, (from The Lightning Thief), Percy and his friend Annabeth are off on a quest to the Sea of Monsters to get the Golden Fleece and to save Thalia's pine tree since something occurred in it. Also, Percy figures out that his friend Tyson is something that demigods and gods do not like. I like this book because it has a lot of action and adventure and some mythology. It is worth 9.0 points. You should read this book after first reading The Lightning Thief.

Lisi Harrison's The Pretty Committee Strikes Back: A Review by Ke'yani edited by Ms. Hernandez!

2010-10-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

The Pretty Committee Strikes Back is about how Massie, Dylan, Alicia and Claire go on a $1,500 trip to Lake Placid so they could they experience being in the wild. Massie finally kisses her crush, Derrington, and Claire tries to get back with Cam. I like this book because there are some shocking things that happen in this story. Also I like that it's a book with AR points. You should read this book because it's about a group of girls who get in trouble and have at the same time. They take their punishments right and sometimes, they try to change for the better.

Andy Griffith's Just Joking: A Review by Michael!

2010-10-15T12:45:00.000-07:00

Andy is always playing pranks and jokes on people. Then he gets caught in a situation and doesn't know how to get out of it. Later on it's like somehow someone above gives him a special gift and he gets out of his lies and trouble. I like this book because it's very comprehensible to people who just want a quick laugh here and there. People should read this book because I KNOW that it will be a book NO ONE will be able to forget.

Lisi Harrison's Dial L for Loser: A Review by Aniya!

2010-10-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

Massie, Alicia, and Claire get invited to Hollywood to try out for a leading role in a movie. But all turns bad when Claire gets the part. Now Claire has to be gone for three weeks. What will happen to Claire's boyfriend, Cam Fisher?! I like this book because it is action-packed. You should read this book because it is quite wonderful.

Liz Kessler's Emily Windsnap and the Castle in the Mist: A Review by Aniya!

2010-10-13T13:15:00.000-07:00

During a class project, Emily finds a diamond ring. She must then find King Neptune's once true love who shared the ring. She must also choose one parent. I like this book because it concludes the series well. You should read this book because if you have read the other books you should read this one as well.

Lisi Harrison's Invasion of the Boy Snatchers: A Review by Ke'yani!

2010-10-13T12:44:00.000-07:00

Invasion of the Boy Snatchers is about how Alicia's cousin, Nina, came from Spain to visit. Nina said that she put a curse on Alicia and her friends, saying that they could not talk to their girlfriends or friends. I like this book because I think it is cool. I also like it because it is realistic fiction. You should read this book because it is good and interesting.

Celeste Norfleet's Fast Forward: A Review by Zaeriyon!

2010-10-13T12:36:00.000-07:00

Kenisha's mom and dad got a divorce and her mom died. Her dad has moved on and has two boys with a girlfriend, with a girl on the way. This story follows Kenisha as she goes to a public school after being kicked out of her private school named Hazelhurst. I like this book because it is an interesting story that people would enjoy. You should read this book because it is an enjoyable story.

Lisi Harrison's The Pretty Committee Strikes Back: A Review by Aniya!

2010-10-08T13:18:00.000-07:00

Massie and the crew go on a camping trip with the school. Dylan walks in and finds her mom kissing her teacher! Ew. Also Massie creates a club called M.U.C.K. I like this book because it is the most exciting book in the Clique series so far. You should read this book because once you start reading it you can't stop!

Liz Kessler's Emily Windsnap and the Monster from the Deep: A Review by Aniya!

2010-10-07T12:27:00.000-07:00

In this second book, Emily and her friend Shona explore and wake up a monster from the deep. Now Emily and Shona have to stop it. Emily starts to find out the true identity of the monster that she awoke. I like this book because it is full of suspense. You never know what will happen next. You should read this book because if you liked the first book you will love this one.

Lisi Harrison's Kristen: A Clique Novel: A Review by Keyani, edited by Ms. Hernandez!

2010-10-04T12:40:00.000-07:00

Kristen has to spend her entire summer vacation at summer school. She likes a boy named Dune who has a little sister named Ripple. She is a very nice girl. Kristen becomes Ripple's babysitter. Kristen has a lot of adventures in the book like when she falls in a pool with jello. I like this book because Kristen is herself and she doesn't try to act like other people. You should read this book because it is one of those books that are not just good, but excellent!

Liz Kesslers The Tail of Emily Windsnap: A Review by Aniya!

2010-10-04T12:34:00.000-07:00

This book is about a twelve-year-old girl named Emily Windsnap who finds out she is a mermaid. This book tells about all her adventures. She also gets to meet a mergirl and they become friends. I like this book because it will sweep you away to another world. If you like mermaids you will love this book. It is full of adventure and it is a good book.

Lisi Harrison's Dylan: A Clique Novel: A Review by Keyani

2010-10-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

Dylan likes this boy named J.T. But she doesn't know that he is doing things behind her back. Svetlana is her enemy and Dylan recorded her hitting and throwing candles at her. Dylan doesn't know but J.T. is not on her side. I like this book because it really seems like real life and it is not that long. It is a good book for people who read in the middle. You should read this book because it is interesting and it doesn't have any bad things in it.

Lisi Harrison's Alicia: A Clique Novel: A Review by Keyani, edited by Ms. Hernandez!

2010-09-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

Alicia is spending her summer in Spain with her family. She wants to meet a boy named ¡Ignacio!, who is the hottest pop singer in Spain. ¡Ignacio! wants a true Spanish beauty to star in his video. But how can Alicia prove she is worthy when she knocked down a statue and has to work as a towel girl to pay for it? I like this book because it is very interesting and makes me want to hurry up and read the next part to see what is going to happen next. You should read this book because it's good for your vocabulary and it's not like a "baby" book. It is short, easy, and fun!

Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days: A Review by Ashe!

2010-09-20T13:03:00.000-07:00

Greg and Rowley had to pay a bill for drinking a lot of smoothies. Greg and Rowley started a lawn service to raise money to pay for the bill. Rowley quit because Greg was not going to do any of the work. Greg's checks were taken by his mom to pay for the bill. I like this book because the book has its own funny sense of humor and it has funny pictures. People should read this book for an easy AR test after they worked on other books.

Walter Dean Myer's At Her Majesty's Request: A Review by Ms. Lane!

2010-09-20T12:41:00.000-07:00

Who would ever have thought the queen of England had an African goddaughter? It’s true. African princess, Sarah, at age 5 survived the slaughter of her parents and her village by a Dahoman tribe. Sarah was spared and taken into captivity for human sacrifice in the bloody Dahoman ritual known as “watering the graves.” The Dahomans believed to honor their ancestors they must kill their captured and spread the blood of their victims over the graves of their ancestors. The markings on Sarah’s face indicated she was of royal blood and Sarah’s royal blood would please the Dahoman ancestors. Sarah was rescued from this ritual by a British captain, Commander Forbes, who convinced the Dahoman king that the England’s queen would not respect a king who killed a child. As a result Sarah was given as a present to Queen Victoria by the Dahoman king. When Captain Forbes returned to England with the child the queen sent for little Sarah and was so impressed with Sarah’s intelligence and personality she took the child under her protection and oversaw her upbringing, education and even Sarah’s marriage. Sarah lived a privileged life in London. She married, returned to Africa with her husband and taught school there. The queen continued to provide an annuity for Sarah and for Sarah’s daughter, Victoria, after Sarah’s death. Young Victoria was a regular a visitor to the Queen Victoria. When the queen died young Victoria was one of her last visitors. This is an enthralling nonfiction story is based on true events discovered in a stack of letters found in an old antique store in London.

Ellen Howard'sThe Crimson Cap: A Review by Ms. Lane!

2010-09-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

The crimson cap belonged to Pierre’s father and now it was his. Pierre did not want to leave his mother, sister and younger brothers behind but he was the oldest boy, and he was responsible for them now that his father was gone. Even if he was only 10 years old he had to try and find help for his family and the people at the French settlement. Pierre and the men encounter hunger, pain and illness as the ill-fated expedition unravels. Most of the men kill each other and Pierre ends up living with an Indian family. They nurse Pierre back to health. He learns their language and customs, to hunt, to swim and to live like they do. Will Pierre ever make it back to the settlement and his family? This gripping story is based on the real Pierre Talon and true events in history of America.

M.T. Anderson'sThe Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing: Volume II. Kingdom of the Waves: A Review by Ms. Lane!

2010-09-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

The riveting saga of Octavian Nothing continues with his escape along with Dr. Trefusis, a compassionate tutor, to British controlled Boston, Octavian joins the Royal Ethiopian regiment in exchange for the promise of freedom. Octavian hears and records the stories of his fellow Africans and escaped slaves. The Royal Regiment is destroyed by smallpox and Octavian experiences first hand the injustice of their military service, evil and hatred. He learns what it is like to kill someone in the fight for emancipation and the struggle for liberty that ironically will exclude Octavian and slaves like him.

Welcome Back Tigers! And a Review from Ms. Lane!

2010-09-02T11:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Back-to-School Tigers! Ms. Lane and I are revving up to make it an awesome year with new books, programs, and activities. Need a good book to read? Check here often for new book reviews from your fellow Tigers! If you have a book you would like to review and post on Tiger Reviews, see Ms. Lane or me, Ms. Hernandez, for a Tiger Reviews form. After you have filled it out and submitted it to us, we will reward you with a Tiger Ticket!

Ms. Lane and I spent our summer vacation relaxing and enjoying some great books. The following is Ms. Lane's Tiger Review of M.T. Anderson's The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing: The Pox Party.

Diaries and letters recount this remarkable story, a National Book Award winner, in revolutionary America of Octavian Nothing, a young African prince who is a zoological experiment conducted by the Novanglian College of Lucidity, a group of Boston radical intellectuals. They want to determine if the African mind can absorb what the European mind can. The boy, Octavian, and his mother are treated as royalty but kept isolated from the rest of the world. Octavian received an excellent classical European education. However, his entire life is observed and recorded. They measure how much food he takes in and how much outtake there is. The situation takes a turn when, at age seven, Octavian discovers he is part of a scientific experiment and the reason for the close scrutiny he has lived under. Another turn of events occurs when the Novelangian College hosts a pox party, an attempt to improve the small pox vaccine, where the guests are inoculated with the disease. The attempt fails miserably. Octavian’s mother dies of the disease and in his grief he escapes. He meets other runaway slaves and realizes the reality of his bizarre life. The story is told is eighteenth century prose and describes the struggle for freedom, the goal of his Patriot captors, while defining the horrors of slavery along with the hypocrisy of the nation’s quest for liberty.

Cuca's Choices #2: Lene Kaaberbol's The Shamer's Daughter

2010-02-10T13:26:00.000-08:00

The Shamer's Daughter is the first book in the Shamer's Chronicles. There are four books in total, even though I have not read them all this book was one of my favorites. This series is about a girl named Dina. Her mother is a shamer and Dina is also becoming one. The shamer's eye is that if a shamer looks in the eyes they can know your deepest and darkest secrets. When Dina's mom is sentenced against her will to find out what happened in a triple murder, Dina must learn to control her shamer eye in order to save her mother. There is adventure and mystery in this book. Will Dina rescue her mom? Will everything go back to normal?

Cuca's Choices #1: Victor Villaseñor's Rain of Gold

2010-02-08T09:03:00.000-08:00

This book tells the true story of two Mexican Americans named Lupe Gomez and Juan Salvador. Lupe grows up in La Lluvia de Oro, which means "Rain of Gold," in Mexico. Juan grows up in a different part of Mexico called Jalisco. During the beginning of the book it shows how Lupe is surrounded by all the American men who work in a mine that is very near to their home. She has never wanted to marry any white man because she has seen if you marry a white man they just get a Mexican girl pregnant then go back to America and are never seen or heard from again. As Lupe grows up she realizes that the only way to survive is to get married and have children. Juan is also growing up but his family is moving to the United States to live a better life. This is the time when the revolution is happening in Mexico. Lupe's family also decides to move to the United States to escape the war. Juan and hi family have a hard time crossing the border because they have no money to get across. One day Juan sees his mother begging for food on the streets, which reduces him to crying. But later on, Lupe and Juan both get across the border and into America. Will Lupe and Juan ever meet? What will they think of each other when they do? Believe me, this is one of the best books I have ever read. There is drama, romance, comedy, but also truth.

Cuca's Book Reviews!

2010-02-08T08:53:00.000-08:00

Tiger Reviews proudly presents Cuca's Choices, book reviews written by our very own Cuca! Like Isis, Cuca is an 8th grade student assistant from the IWE (Independent Work Experience) program! Look for her reviews throughout the year by checking out the posts labeled with Cuca's Choices.

Here's more about Cuca:

To start out, my name is Cuca. I am an 8th grader here at Longfellow Middle School. If you ask my brother, sister or any of my friends they will tell you that I love to read. I read mostly fiction, but one book that I really enjoyed reading this year was Rain of Gold. I have learned from this book and other like it that non-fiction can also be exciting. I love to recommend books to anyone who says they need a book to read, even if it's not fiction. Reading is something that can help you in the future believe me--so read!

Isis' Picks #2: Nikki Grimes's The Road to Paris

2010-02-05T13:25:00.000-08:00

Nikki Grimes's Road to Paris is about a young girl named Paris and her little brother who live in the world of foster care, which in anyone's case isn't quite exciting since you travel from family to family. When Paris goes to live with the Lincolns, she is unfortunately separated from her brother. What will happen to Paris in the Lincoln home? Will it be just another family or something more? Will Paris find her brother? How are the Lincolns going to feel when Paris shows who she really is?

Tiffany Trent's The Serpent's Coils: A Review by Bella!

2010-01-15T11:38:00.000-08:00

This epic tale is about love, loss, betrayal and fairies. Corrine is shipped away to a boarding school named Falston, where strange things have been happening. Who is the man with the blood-covered hand? What does the Fey Prince want? This book was thrilling, strange, and enticing! A nice refreshment after a boring day. You will positively love it.

Shannon Hale's Goose Girl: A Review by Clara M.!

2010-01-12T13:06:00.000-08:00

Princess Anidori travels to Bayern to marry a prince. Her mother arranged this marriage without telling her. Along the way, she is betrayed by her friends. Can she survive? This book is a good read for many reasons. Goose Girl is scary, funny, and mysterious. I would recommend this book to others because it makes a great picture in your mind of a very unique story.

Sharon Draper's Romiette and Julio: A Review by Amanda!

2010-01-12T13:03:00.001-08:00

Romiette and Julio meet in a chat room and they find out they go to the same school. Their parents don't want them together because of of their difference in race, and a gang wants to separate them. The gang gets tired of Romiette and Julio not listening to their warnings, so they do something bad that will make them listen. I couldn't stop reading this book because it was so good that something important was happening each minute. You should read this book because if you like suspense and romance you are going to love it.

Isis' Picks #1: Sharon Flake's Who am I Without Him?

2009-11-20T14:14:00.000-08:00

Who am I Without Him?: Short Stories About Girls and the Boys in Their Lives is a book about girls and their issues with boys. I believe that the best story in the book was "Hunting for Boys." It was about 10 church-going best friends. These girls could not date, look at, or even think about boys--let alone wear short and tight clothing. They knew that if they did any that the trouble was on! They did it anyway by getting on a bus and heading to a bad part of town to meet some "bad boys." What do you think happened to them? Did their parents find out? What were the "bad boys" really like? Who am I Without Him? will leave you wanting more, so read to see what happens next!

Orson Scott Card's Enchantment: A Review by Elsa!

2009-11-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

Ivan discovers a magical clearing in the forest when he returns to his homeland in Russia. Inside this clearing, he finds a sleeping woman. They travel back in time, living out what Ivan believes might be the origin of all Russian fairytales. I liked this book because it is inventive and different. I recommend this book because it is exciting.

Isis' Book Reviews!

2009-10-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

Tiger Reviews will now be featuring posts exclusively written by the Longfellow Library's very own Isis, an 8th grade student assistant from IWE (Independent Work Experience) program! Look for her reviews throughout the year by checking out the posts labeled with "Isis'_picks."

Here's a brief biography of Isis:

Hello, my name is Isis. I'm writing to give you a little info about myself to let you know the true me. I am a 13 year old girl who loves to dress to impress and write to spill my heart out. Also I love reading too. I mainly read drama books, but I have learned to widen my horizons and step out of my comfort zone and read books like: Dear Ellen Bee by Mary Lyons and Muriel Miller Branch, Copper Sun by Sharon M. Draper, and Road to Paris by Nikki Grimes.

Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice: A Review by Lana!

2009-09-30T12:47:00.000-07:00

Pride and Prejudice is a tale of the five Bennet daughters, especially Elizabeth, trying to make good marriages. Then two young handsome rich men enter the picture: Mr Bingly and Mr. Darcy who fall in love with Elizabeth and Jane. Will love be enough to conquer social constraints, fortune, and pride? Even though the language of this book is sophisticated it never gets boring. It is a timeless classic and a story that won't let you go!

Banned Books Week: Celebrate Your Freedom to Read!

2009-09-29T10:29:00.000-07:00

The American Library Association has declared the last week of September of each year as "Banned Books Week" or BBW which celebrates the freedom to read. Every year the Longfellow Library celebrates Banned Books Week by prominently displaying books that other communities have attempted to ban from schools and libraries. We encourage you to take a look at our display of "Banned" Books and learn about the importance of guarding intellectual freedom. According to the ALA website on BBW: "BBW stresses the importance of ensuring the availability of unorthodox or unpopular viewpoints for all who wish to read and access them."

If you suppress or silence the views of one person, then it makes it okay for someone else to silence the ideas and views you want to share! Check out this article and list of Banned Books for Young Adults and then check one out from the Longfellow Library. Tell us what your favorite banned book is and celebrate your freedom to read!

Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin: A Short Review by Jade!

2009-03-25T12:25:00.000-07:00

Tom is an honest man who is the slave of a kind slave master who goes in debt and has to sell his favorite slaves, Uncle Tom and Harry. The mother of Harry overhears this, tells Tom and his wife, and together they run away. During their escape, Tom refuses to run away and is taken by the slave trader who purchased him. While Tom is separated from his wife and children he hopes someday he will return home to his family. I liked this book because of all the figurative language and all the beautifully developed characters. I recommend this book because it teaches you about the horrors of slavery and how it broke up and separated families.

Book Title & Author: Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe

Accelerated Reader level: 9.3
Accelerated Reader points: 32.0

George Orwell's 1984: A Review by Jenny!

2009-03-03T10:02:00.001-08:00

In this story a guy lives in 1984. In this world there are three big countries and they have been at war for a long time. Also in this world, the government controls everyone to love the government. I liked this book because it made me think about how much freedom we truly have and how we take it for granted. You should read this book because it's insightful and it makes you think.

Book Title & Author: 1984 by George Orwell

Accelerated Reader level: 8.9
Accelerated Reader points: 17.0

Suzanne Fisher Staples' Shabanu and Haveli: A Short Review by Hina!

2009-02-09T12:38:00.000-08:00

Shabanu is the second daughter in a family with no sons. She lives in Pakistan. She has been allowed freedom that is usually forbidden to a Muslim girl. Shabanu has to marry the 55 year-old-man, Rahim, but she tries to run away. I like this book because it is about a Muslim girl who has to marry an old man. You should read this book because it is kind of sad and realistic.

Book Title & Author: Shabanu by Suzanne Fisher Staples
Accelerated Reader level: 5.9
Accelerated Reader points: 9.0

*spoiler alert for Suzanne Fisher Staples' Haveli*

Shabanu is the youngest of Rahim's four wives. Shabanu has a five year old daughter, Mumtaz. Shabanu falls in love with Rahim's nephew, Omar. I like this book because it is an interesting story of a Muslim woman who becomes a fourth wife. This is very different from an American Muslim marriage! You should read this book because it tells about a teenage girl married who is married to an old man--a common tradition in other countries.

Book Title & Author: Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples
Accelerated Reader level: 6.7
Accelerated Reader points: 12.0

*spoiler alert for Suzanne Fisher Staples' The House of Djinn*

Shabanu's daughter, Mumtaz is now 15 years old. She has been brought up to believe that her mother is dead, but Shabanu has been living in a different home for ten years. Shabanu's sister-in-law and servant have been keeping this a secret from all the people. You should read this book because it is about a girl who believes that her mother is dead, but discovers the truth.

Book Title & Author: The House of Djinn by Suzanne Fisher Staples
Accelerated Reader level: 6.2
Accelerated Reader points: 8.0

Judy Blume's Freckle Juice: A Review by Pema!

2009-01-22T08:56:00.000-08:00

Second grader Andrew Marcus is jealous of his friend because he has freckles. When his classmate tells him that she has a recipe that can give him freckles too, Andrew pays her 50 cents for the information. Instead of getting freckles, he gets sick! I enjoyed reading Freckle Juice by Judy Blume because it was a quick, easy and interesting book. You should read this book and learn about why it's important to be happy with and thankful for what you have.

Book Title & Author: Freckle Juice by Judy Blume
Accelerated Reader level: 3.1
Accelerated Reader points: 0.5

Dana Davidson's Jason and Kyra: A Review by Kiera!

2009-01-20T10:41:00.000-08:00

This book is about the relationship between Jason and Kyra. Jason asks Kyra to the Homecoming dance. Kyra then overhears Lisa and her crew talking about how Lisa was "with him" a few weeks before! But then Jason and Kyra kiss for the very first time! I love this book because of how it takes place, how it's set up, and how the characters are so real. People should read this book because you'll end up not putting it down until you finish it!

Book Title & Author: Jason and Kyra by Dana Davidson
Accelerated Reader level: 4.7
Accelerated Reader points: 11.0

Jeanne DuPrau's The City of Ember: A Review by Shani!

2009-01-16T12:43:00.000-08:00

Lina and Doon live in the City of Ember and they are twelve years old and have to choose a job. Their city is crumbling and Doon wants to save it. Poppy at first doesn't believe Doon, but when she does she tries her best to save the people of Ember. I like this book because you can really get into the story. You should read this book because it's really interesting and it shows us how important electricity is.

Book Title & Author: The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
Accelerated Reader level: 5.0
Accelerated Reader points: 9.0

Wendy Lichtman's Do the Math: The Writing on the Wall: A Review by Refugio!

2009-01-15T13:47:00.000-08:00

*SPOILER ALERT FOR Do the Math: Secrets, Lies, and Algebra*

In Wendy Lichtman's first book, Do the Math: Secrets, Lies, and Algebra, Tess tells on some of her classmates for cheating on a test. Now, these classmates are trying to get revenge. Also, someone wrote on the church wall and Tess thinks that these writings are meant for her to figure out the puzzle. This is a good book because it has lots of mystery. You should read this book because it shows how you can apply math to real life.

Book Title & Author: The Writing on the Wall by Wendy Lichtman
Accelerated Reader level: 5.7
Accelerated Reader points: 5.0

Donna Jo Napoli's Beast: A Short Review by Yasmeen

2009-01-15T10:40:00.000-08:00

This book is a new take on the "Beauty and the Beast" story. This time, the story is told from the beast's perspective. The "Beast" is a Persian prince, and he runs away to France after he is cursed. There, he meets "Beauty," a girl named Belle.... I like this book because I am Iranian and there aren't enough books with Iranian heroes/heroines. You should read this book to experience other cultures and get a new take on a classic tale.

Book Title & Author: Beast by Donna Jo Napoli
Accelerated Reader level: 4.6
Accelerated Reader points: 8.0

Lisi Harrison's The Clique: A Short Review by Samantha!

2009-01-14T12:57:00.000-08:00

The Clique consists of Massie, Dylan, Alicia, and Kristen. Massie is the ruler of The Clique and the rest of the social scene at Octavian Country Day School, a private girls' school in Westchester, New York. When Claire arrives from Florida and is staying in the guest house on Massie's estate, Massie quickly realizes that she is not Clique material. She has to find a way to get Claire out, but with Claire's scheming, she might just one day fit in. I like this book because it tells the story of five girls my age that have to go through middle school in a very exciting way. Anyone that likes to read about girls, fashion, cliques, and middle school life would love this book.

Book Title & Author: The Clique by Lisi Harrison
Accelerated Reader level: 4.9
Accelerated Reader points: 7.0

Stephenie Meyer's Twilight: A Quick Review by Haila!

2009-01-12T14:20:00.000-08:00

Twilight is about a girl who moves to Washington and falls in love with this boy who is hiding something from her. Does she find out what it is? I like this book because it's very adventurous and romantic. If you like books with action, then this is a good book to choose!

Book Title & Author: Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Accelerated Reader level: 4.9
Accelerated Reader points: 18.0

Sharon Draper's November Blues: A Quick Review by Antanisha!

2008-12-17T12:38:00.000-08:00

November has recently lost her boyfriend, but he left her with a baby. So now, November is lost in all kinds of problems. Her boyfriend's cousin volunteers to give up his dreams and help November through her problems. I like this book because it has a lot of drama. It is a very fun book filled with excitement. You should read this book because it has so much sadness. It has a really good way of showing how you can be happy in different ways.

Book Title & Author: November Blues by Sharon Draper
Accelerated Reader level: 4.6
Accelerated Reader points: 11.0

Neal Shusterman's The Schwa was Here: A Quick Review!

2008-12-11T10:53:00.000-08:00

There is a kid named Calvin Schwa a.k.a. "The Schwa" who loses his mother in a supermarket and was never noticed. Then another kid named Anthony "Antsy" Bonano, who admires Calvin, helps him find his mother. I like this book because it is very funny and has lots of adventure. I give this book 5 out of 5. I think you should read this book because it's very funny and full of suspense with a little bit of adventure. This is one of the best books I have read!

Book Title & Author: The Schwa was Here by Neal Shusterman
Accelerated Reader level: 5.0
Accelerated Reader points: 9.0

Jake Wizner's Spanking Shakespeare: A Quick Review by Ryen!

2008-12-04T09:04:00.000-08:00

Spanking Shakespeare is about a guy with two friends and he is basically trying to get a girlfriend. I like this book because it's funny, crazy, and realistic. It's about high school. You should read this book because it talks about what a teenage boy goes through.

Book title & author: Spanking Shakespeare by Jake Wizner
Accelerated Reader level: 5.3
Accelerated Reader Points: 8.0