The Iliad by Homer

I read the book The Iliad , by Homer. He also has written the Odyssey. The recommended age is adult. This book is a master piece in literature. Homer’s unique writing style and his masterful craft for telling stories is remarkable. “ The Iliad is a classic tale of intrigue. The poet tells the great story of troy and it’s downfall.” said by unknown reader at borders website. The Argrives have traveled along way away to rescue Helen. An all out war is about to break lose between them and the Trojans. All because of one single woman. The war will lose countless lives and families will be ruined. So read to find out if this war will brake lose.

Recommended by Johnny Molony

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

I’m reading Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins. Everything is different for Katniss Everdeen and Petta Malark since they won the hunger games. Her best friend is now a stranger. District 12’s new head peacekeeper has changed everything for worse. Whippings are now regular and the peacekeepers are in forcing the rules to a harsh standard. Even the president wants her head and new talks of uprisings in the districts has only made it worse. Katniss has only the winners tour to convince the world that she is madly in love with Petta or else she could her kiss her life and her family good bye. After all else fails. The president has something else planned for her. A task thought she would never have to do again. “In honor of the quarter quill victors from each district will play. Showing that even the strongest districts is nothing compared to the capitols power. They have to back to the arena”. That makes the old one seem like child’s play. With fiercer competitors and a stage that has the most horrifying traps planned for them. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good book with a twist in every chapter. New York times magazine says, “Collins has done that rare thing. She has written a sequel that improves upon the first book”.

Recommended by Johnny Molony

The Hate List by Jennifer Brown

I read Hate List by Jennifer Brown. It is about a girl named Valerie Leftman, a girl whose boyfriend was the shooter in a school shooting. He killed people from his and Valerie’s hate list, and then killed himself. Valerie didn’t know he was planning this, even though all the signs were there. She tried to stop him, and ended up getting shot in the leg trying to save someone who had teased her for years, and was on her hate list. Everyone reacted differently. Some people believed she was a hero, and other people believe that the shooting was all her idea. Either way, going back to school to finish her senior year is one of the hardest things she’s ever had to do. She will have to deal with her relationships with her family, former friends, and Jessica, the girl whose life she saved. Because of Valerie’s family problems, she has to deal with many of these issues only with the help of Dr. Hieler, her therapist. Dr. Hieler is one of my favorite characters in the book because he truly cares about Valerie. This book is about Valerie’s journey through this tragedy. Will Valerie ever move on with her life? Will she mend her relationships? Read to find out.
School Library Journal recommends this book for grade 8 and up, and that it is, "Startling, powerful, and poignant." Publishers Weekly says, "[A] riveting debut." I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in this topic.

Recommended by Anne Marie Greenwood

The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

I read the book The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold. This book is about 14 year old Susie Salmon, who has been killed. Susie narrates the book from heaven. It tells the story of how her death affected friends, family, and neighbors. Susie knows who killed her, but will her family ever find out?
Aimee Bender, author of An Invisible Sign of My Own, says, “The Lovely Bones is the kind of novel that, once you’re done, you may go visit while wandering through a bookstore and touch on the binding, just to remember the emotions you felt while reading it. Intensely wise and gorgeously written, The Lovely Bones is a heartbreaking page-turner. I envy the reader who is about to jump into the world of Susie Salmon and her incredible family.”
I would recommend this book to you if you like creepy and sorrowful books. With many twists, this book will keep you reading.

Recommended by Anne Marie Greenwood

I read the book The Lovely Bones by: Alice Sebold. It is about a girl named Susie Salmon who was murdered by a man named Mr. Harvey. She is telling her gruesome tale from her own place in heaven. An unknown reviewer on Amazon.com said, “The Lovely Bones is one of those books you can pick up and not want to put down again until you finish. At roughly 325 pages, this novel demands to be read on a plane, or on the beach, or when you have good chunks of time available to sit with it. Don't frustrate yourself by allowing a half hour here and there.This is one book that deserves its spot on the bestseller list.” My favorite line of the book is, “My name is Salmon, Susie Salmon. Like the fish.” and “Ways to kill a person is an old joke in heaven. I always chose the icicle because your weapon melts away.” The recommended reading age is: Teens-Young Adults.

Recommended by Lisa Greenwood

The Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

The Uglies By Scott Westerfeld was a pretty good book, except for the beginning was boring. If you are a type of person that like the suspense to build up, then you should definately read this book. I will read the back.

“Tally is about to turn sixteen, and she can't wait. Not for her license -- for turning pretty. In Tally's world, your sixteenth birthday brings an operation that turns you from a repellent ugly into a stunningly attractive pretty and catapults you into a high-tech paradise where your only job is to have a really great time. In just a few weeks Tally will be there.

But Tally's new friend Shay isn't sure she wants to be pretty. She'd rather risk life on the outside. When Shay runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world -- and it isn't very pretty. The authorities offer Tally the worst choice she can imagine: find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all.”

Will Tally ever turn pretty? Shay runs away, and makes Tally have to decide to turn on her friend, or never become pretty at all. This book is for a young adult, like us! I would suggest this book because it keeps you interesting after a rough spot in the first chapter or so, and because the ending of this book is very very good.

Recommended by Cole Otting

Point Blank by Anthony Horowitz

Point Blank, written by Anthony Hororwitz, is the second book in the Alex Rider series. This book is for kids between the ages of 10-14. I think this is a really good book and keeps you at the edge of your seat. ALA booklist says: Slambang action.

An investigation into a series of mysterious deaths leads agents to an elite prep school for rebellious kids, MI6 assigns Alex Rider to the case. Before he knows it, Alex is hanging out with the sons of the rich and powerful, and something feels wrong. These former juvenile delinquents have turned well-behaved, studious—and identical—overnight. It's up to Alex to find out who is masterminding this nefarious plot, before they find him.

This book is a little bit confusing, but at the end you will be very pleased-with a twist. One of my favorite quotes from this book is “And when I do rule the world, dear Alex, you will be eleminated!” Can Alex survive the school? Read the book to find out!

Recommended by Cole Otting

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

I read the book Where The Red Fern Grows by: Wilson Rawls. In the book Where The Red Fern Grows it’s about a boy and two dogs. I really liked this book because this is some thing i do. The boy named billy is like me enjoys to hunt coons. Quote "'I thought about that, Papa,' I said, 'but I made a bargain with my dogs. I told them that if they would put one in a tree, I'd do the rest. Well, they fulfilled their part of the bargain. Now it's up to me to do my part, and I'm going to, Papa. I'm going to cut it down. I don't care if it takes me a year.'" - Wilson Rawls, Where the Red Fern Grows. I recommend this book for the ages of ten and older. He also wrote the Summer of the Monkeys. It takes place in the ranged dark hills and river bottoms of the wild country. The main part is about Billy and his dogs with his Grampa. The book is filled with, adventure, contests, fights, and death, After saving for two years Billy earns enough money to buy two hound pups, Ol'Dan and Li'l Ann. What do you think if you only made 50 dollars in two years and never spent any of it.

Back of Book: Billy, Old Dan and Little Ann -- a Boy and His Two Dogs...

A loving threesome, they ranged the dark hills and river bottoms of Cherokee country. Old Dan had the brawn, Little Ann had the brains -- and Billy had the will to train them to be the finest hunting team in the valley. Glory and victory were coming to them, but sadness waited too. And close by was the strange and wonderful power that's only found.

An exciting tale of love and adventure you'll never forget.

Holes by Louis Sachar

I read Holes by Louis Sachar. Its about a boy that is sent to a desert detention camp where he joins the job of digging holes for some reason. Stanley Yelnats was given a choice. My favorit qoute is when the judge said, "You may go to jail, or you may go to Camp Green Lake." Stanley was from a poor family. He had never been to camp before. So Stanley Yelnats seems to serve an easy sentence, which is only fair because he is as innocent as you or me. But Stanley is not going where he thinks he is. Camp Green Lake is like no other camp anywhere. Its a place that has no lake and nothing that is green. It is a place that once held the largest lake in Texas, but today it is only a scorching desert wasteland, dotted with countless holes dug by the boys who live at the camp. At Camp Green Lake, the warden makes the boys build character by spending all day, every day, digging holes five feet wide and five feet deep. It doesn't take long for Stanley to realize there's more than character improvement going on at Camp Green Lake. The boys are digging holes because the big scary warden is searching for something, and before long Stanley begins his own search for the truth.

Recommended by Royce Demmer

Along For The Ride by Sarah Dessen

I read the book Along For The Ride by Sarah Dessen. This engaging, poignant book is an amazing read for young adults. This book tells the story of Auden living with her divorced father and stepmother. Living in the small town of Colby is a new experience for her, because she has never really had a childhood, taking care of her irresponsible parents. I will no read the back of the book. Once Auden meets Eli he shows her everything she has missed out on as a kid, like food fights, hot dog parties, and even riding a bike. He gets her to look at life in a whole new way. I really enjoyed this book because I loved the easy-going summery feel the author writes with. One of my favorite quotes from the book is, “After he said this I realized, being amazing isn’t easy. Eli worked hard to get where he is. And now it was my turn to give it what I got.” Sarah Dessen always throws little strokes of genius in there like that, and I really like that about her writing. The Washington Post says, “Captures that sense of summer as a golden threshold between past regrets and future unknowns, a time that shimmers with the sweet promise of now.” Do not miss out on this incredible read by Sarah Dessen.

Recommended by Catherine McCoy

Each Little Bird That Sings by Deborah Wiles

I read the book Each Little Bird That Sings by Deborah Wiles. This book is recommended for ages 8 through 13. This heartwarming, incredible story will touch your heart and tell you what a true friend is. In this story, Comfort is someone who has a very dismal life, working in her family funeral home. She has to learn to be strong and deal with her emotions. This is what the back of the book says: read back of the book.
This book has won plenty of awards, such as a Golden Kite Honor Book, and a National Book Award Finalist. I recommend this book for anyone who has ever dealt with losing a loved one, it is truly amazing. Also look for Love, Ruby Lavender by Deborah Wiles.

Recommended by Catherine McCoy

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

The book I read was The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen. This engaging, credible book will make you keep reading more and always making predictions. This book is recommended for ages twelve and up. This book tells the story of Macy, and her adventures with the Wish Catering Crew. This is what the back of the book says: (read the back of the book.)
This is one of my favorite quotes from the book:

“Look when I was in the hospital, right after the accident, they thought I was going to die. I was pretty screwed up, you know.” Kristy said, “Then, life was very short, literally. But now that I’m better, it seems so long I have to squint to see even the edges of it. It’s all in the view, Macy. That’s what I mean about forever, too. For any one of us our forever could end in an hour, or a hundred years from now. You can never know for sure, so make it count.”

I like this because it teaches you to live everyday like you may never live tomorrow.

I recommend this book and also check out others by this author, such as This Lullaby, Dreamland, and Just Listen.

Recommended by Catherine McCoy

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

For the past two years, The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins has captivated the audiences in my classroom. My first group of 8^th graders to read this novel with me anxiously raced back to my classroom at the end of the day to see what was in store for our multidimensional characters. This unique series takes place in the future in an area once known as North America. The people are now under the control of the Capitol, which is ruled by sinister people who force each District to send one boy and one girl to participate in The Hunger Games. The children sent to The Hunger Games are forced to fight to the death on television while the whole nation of Panem watches. Readers will fall in love with the main characters, Katniss and Peeta, as they journey from District 12 into the cruel and harsh circumstances of The Hunger Games. Who will make it out alive? You will have to read to find out what happens to our beloved characters.

The follow up books in the series, Catching Fire and Mockingjay, are equally engaging. Suzanne Collins has also written the Underland Chronicles series. This book is recommended for young adults and has earned four and a half out of five stars from the customers on the Barnes and Nobles website. Kirkus Reviews states that the book showcases “impressive world-building, breathtaking action and clear philosophical concerns.” The New York Times calls this book “brilliantly plotted and perfectly paced.” To me, one of the most gripping quotes from the book is “Whatever words they use, the real message is clear. Look how we take your children and sacrifice them and there’s nothing you can do.” I believe this quote shows how destructive and inhumane their government is throughout this series. This book brilliantly shows how the human spirit can endure the presence of evil and try to overcome the obstacles life presents. A must read for both young adults and mature readers!

Recommended by Ms. Steffen

Aries Rising by Bonnie Hearn Hill

This quarter I read the book Aries Rising by Bonnie Hearn Hill. It is about a girl named Logan and her friends Paige and Chilli. The three girls are busy trying to uncover the mystery behind Fearless Astrology.The girls find out many ways to get who and what they want. Logan uses it to get her lifetime crush and a spot in a famous summer writing camp. But what will happen when Logan’s plan to discover The Gears backfires? Will she be able to keep her promise? Will The Gears ever be stopped? You will have to read to find out.
This book is recommended for young adults. More books in this series is Taurus Eyes and Gemini Night. An annomous reviewer says, “I just finish this book, and I loved it. Great character's, and fantastic storyline. I can't wait for the sequel!”

Publisher’s Weekly says “Aquarius Logan McRae is a high school sophomore in Terra Bella Beach, CA and has been working all semester to impress her teachers in order to get into the summer writing camp she desperately wants to attend. But when this ordinary girl finds an extraordinary book, Fearless Astrology, her life is changed forever. Applying what she’s learned about the zodiac, she lands her own column in the school paper and a date with the hottest guy in school! But when Logan threatens to catch the members of a secret society called The Gears, who have been vandalizing school property by reading the stars, she quickly learns that she is in over her head. Will Logan be able to catch The Gears, save her love life, keep her newspaper column, and get into the writing camp of her dreams all through the use of astrology?”

The back of Aries Rising says, “

My favorite quotes from this book, is actually from a different book. They are from Fearless Astrology. They are at the beginning of each chapter, so I will only say one. “No one needs to fear the stars, they don’t limit our destiny, only point out possibilities.” I feel like this says it all, no one can say who your going to be, only you can decide that. I think if you enjoy looking at you horoscope once and a while, you will enjoy this book.

Recommended by Deann Ostwinkle

The World's Dumbest Criminals Jr. Edition by Daniel Butler and Alan Ray

I read The World’s Dumbest Criminals Jr. Edition :by Daniel Butler and Alan Ray. This book is about criminals all over the world that make mistakes with their crimes. In the book there are trivia questions of America’s Dumbest Criminals the T.V. show. This book is different than most books it has many stories and all of them are under three pages long. Most of the stories are funny and it’s a quick read. I think all the guys and some of the girls in here would enjoy this book. The reading age is young adult. My favorite part in the book is the world’s fastest cop and the story of the criminal syphoning gas from a trailer. I enjoyed these stories because they are two of the more funny stories in this book. The publisher said, “This hysterical collection of stories of actual crimes committed by clumsy crooks and fumbling felons will have you laughing out loud at painfully dumb attempts at crime.” One reader said it was the funniest book they ever read.

Recommended by Mitchell McAndrew

The Fugitive Factor by Gordon Korman

I read The Fugitive Factor by: Gordon Korman. It is the second book in the On the Run series. In the first book the two kids, Aiden & Meg’s parents are accused of selling information to terrorists. The are put in prison and given life. The kids are put in a juvenile correction center on a farm. they are trying to prove that the parents are innocent. In this book they are trying to do that also, but there is someone who was payed to kill them. An anonymous reader said, “That some parts are funny, some parts are scary, and just plan cool. If you are interested in adventure books. Then this is a book for you!” The reading age is 9-12 so it’s a quick read. My favorite quote from this book is, “She pulled a box of matches out of her pocket, struck one, and held it to the corner of the yellow pages under the nightstand. There was an instant combustion. She climbed onto the bed and held the blazing directory like a torch to the smoke alarm.” I like this quote because I think that it was funny that she would do that in a hotel.

Recommended by Mitchell McAndrew

Kisses and Lies by Lauren Henderson

I just read the book Kisses and Lies by Lauren Henderson. Kisses and Lies is the second book in the series about Scarlett Wakefield. Scarlett is still trying to find Dan McAndrew’s killer, and her and her new best friend Taylor McGovern are on the killer’s path. Their curiosity leads them to many strange places, and they will do whatever it takes to find out who killed Dan. This mission is risky, and Scarlett may find herself the next target of a murderer!
Kirkus Review said “Scarlett’s voice peppered with the usual teen angst and snark....skillfully sets the tone for this frothy whodunit... Filled with duplicitous debaters, homicidal siblings, all-night parties an lots of designer name-dropping” School Library Journal said “With just the right balance of action and relationship drama, this book hits the target for libraries with strong chick-lit or mystery fans.”
Kisses and Lies by Lauren Henderson is a book a lot of girls would enjoy reading if you enjoy mysteries. The suggested age range for Kisses and Lies is Young Adult. It is the second book in the mysterious series of Scarlett Wakefield.

Recommended by Lucy Mulert

Three Days by Donna Jo Napoli

I’m doing a book review on Three Days, by Donna Jo Napoli. Its about a 11 year old girl Jackie, who is on a vacation with her dad in Italy. They are on their way back to the hotel, when her dad suddenly dies in the car. A car pulls over and they kidnap her. Then they take her back to the house. They try to really nice to her, but she is super mad at them. In the end there is a big twist that will surprise you. This book is great if you are looking for a short and easy read. The recommended reading age for this book is 9-12. The Kirkus Review said, “While perhaps emotionally convincing within the terms of the story, it nevertheless strains credulity to the limit in every other way. Still, if readers are sufficiently grabbed by Jackie's ingenuous voice and her remarkable predicament, they may be willing to forgive the contrivance for the experience.”

Recommended by Bryce McAndrew

Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan

I read the book Battle of the Labyrinth, by Rick Riordan. It is book #4 of the Percy Jackson series. I chose this book because it’s full of action and I read and liked the first 3 books. Percy is the son of the sea god, Poseiden. He is a half-blood. Half human, half god. A half-bloods job is to destroy monsters, save the gods, and stay alive. Most of this happens during quests. Which are missions that normally help the gods. In the Battle of the Labyrinth, Percy’s friend Annabeth get’s her first quest since she first came to camp, seven years ago. Her mission: get to the center of the Labyrinth and talk Daedulus into helping them save the camp from the Titan army. Can she make it to the center before the titans?

A quote from the book is “So many betrayals. I had hoped Quintus would prove a friend. it seems my judgement was bad.” this shows that the half-bloods are struggling to stay together. The age level for this book is anonymus. Kirkus reviews says to ‘look no further for the next Harry Potter. Meet Percy Jackson, as a lot of fans already have.’

Recommended by Alan Klostermann

Boys Will Be Boys by Jeff Pearlman

I’m doing a book review on the book, Boys Will Be Boys, by Jeff Pearlman. It’s a book about of the highs and lows Dallas Cowboys during the 1990’s. They started off as the worst team in the NFL, but then the new owner Jerry Jones bought them and they became really good. They won 3 super bowls and became America’s Team. While they are doing so good, a lot of illegal things were going on. Lots of people get arrested for drugs and other things. They going from being the worst team, to the best team, and then the worst team again. “Jeff Pearlman has written a rip-roaring book filled with terrific reporting and vibrant prose. To Appreciate football’s modern era in all its crazy glory, you’ve got to read Boys Will Be Boys. It’s a flat-out winner,” said Selena Roberts of Sports Illustrated. The recommended reading age for this book is young adult. A quote from the book is “There, dangling in his right hand, was a pair of silver scissors, bits of shredded brown skin coating the tips.” The recommended reading age for this book is young adult.

Recommended by Bryce McAndrew

The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger

I read the book The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by: Tom Angleberger. It’s about a boy named Tommy who believes his friend Dwight is crazy. Dwight is not your average six grader, he does very weird stuff. One day he decided to make a Origami Yoda puppet that can predict the future. Many people believed that Dwight was trying to make a friend, but soon the whole school believes that Yoda is magic. The New York Times said “a delightful first novel, part of what drives the story is the question of Origami Yoda's credibility, but the other is our growing involvement in the friendships and crushes of Tommy and his pals.” The reading age is 9-12. One of the quotes from the book is “ The question: Is Origami Yoda real? Read and find out if Origami Yoda is real!

Recommended by Alex Kramer

Wolf Brother by Michelle Paver

I read the the book Wolf brother. By Michelle Paver. 12 year old Torak’s father was killed by a great powerful bear. Before his father was killed he told him to search for the high spirit mountain with the help of the guider. Torak ran to escape the bear and made the escape. Now, he’s alone in the woods with a mad killer bear. When he comes across a wolf pup. It’s family, dead. he’s starving and wants to kill the pup, but he holds back. Could this be the guider?

Now Torak and the pup are off. Suddenly, they’re captured. The clan that took him wants to kill him. One girl, helps Torak escape. Can they make it to the mountain in time? Will they get caught by the clan? Or worse, the bear? I chose this book because it shows trust and help get you a long way. There’s also lot’s of adventure. There are some gruesome parts though, so I don’t recommend this book to anyone who doesn’t like that.

The age level for this book is 9-12. There are 293 pages. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a quick read. The London Times says “Wolf Brother is the kind of story you dream of reading and all too rarely find.” Publishers Weekly says “Torak’s coming-of-age tale will keep the pages turning.”

Recommended by Alan Klostermann

Eagle Strike by Anthony Horowitz

I read the book Eagle strike by Anthony Horowitz. Eagle Strike is the 4^th book of the Alex Rider series. You would think that a celebrity that lots of fame and has donated millions of dollars to charity wouldn’t be a maniac that wants to kill MILLIONS of people for a little cause and kills anyone he doesn’t like. Well, think again! In the end of the book a contract killer that Alex was saved by in the first book ( Stormbreaker) Tells Alex that his father used to work with Yassen as a contract killer and was killed by the very company Alex works for. Yassen leaves Alex with a hard thought, he said before he died, “ Go to Venice. Find Scorpia. And you will find your destiny…” School Library Journal says, “This Heart-Racing novel combines fast-paced action with ingenious gadgets. This book will certainly get readers addicted and anxiously awaiting the next installment.” The Booklist says, “ Alex Rider is back for another adventure! Once again, Horowitz tells a tight story, and his knack for descriptive action drives readers through the very accessible plot. What does this crazy celebrity plan to do that he thinks that it will help the world so much but will kill MILLIONS? Read to find out!!!!!

Recommended by Austin Gaul

Endgame by Nancy Garden

I read the book Endgame by Nancy Garden. An anonymous review said “This book kept me going back for more. I couldn’t put it down.” This book was rated four and a half stars on the Barns and Nobel website. My favorite quote from this book was “Dad likes Perfect Peter, he’s how he wanted me to be, but I’m different.” I like this quote because the whole book Grays dad is always talking about Peter his older brother and how he should be more like him. This book was one of the better books I have read. I wasn’t able to put this book down. When I did I couldn’t wait until I could pick it up again. Gray uses some very clever ideas in this book. Such as hiding the knife he caries in his sock. And going in the back door at school and navigating his way through back hallways all so he doesn’t get beat up by the jocks. This books makes you realize that things are not always as they seem. Gray doesn’t act like he is ever picked on but in all reality he was. Until he took matters into his own hands. What did Gray do? What will happen to him? Read Endgame by Nancy Garden to find out!!!

Recommended by Ben Burds

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

The book I read was The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie. It’s about a boy named Junior who lives on the Indian Reservation who was born with many medical problems. As people pick on Junior and his family not caring for him, he decides to go to a all white school. This makes his best friend Rodney very mad, so mad there friendship may be over. One of the quotes from this book is “ I was born with water in my brain.” Sherman Alexie really makes you want to keep reading says the Los Angeles Times. This book is so original I laughed consistently from beginning to end quotes Amy Sedaris. Once you pick this book up you can’t put it down! The recommended age group for this is young adults.

Recommended by Alex Kramer

13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher

I read the book 13 Reasons Why. By Jay Asher. This book is about a girl named Hannah whose problems become to much for her and she gives up. But not in the way most of us give up. She gave up on life. Swallowed a bottle of pills is all it took for her. The title (13 Reasons Why) took its name because just before Hannah Barker killed herself she created a set of tapes. On each one of the reasons for why she had taken her own life. 13 reasons. 13 people. They range from what other people think of her to things that she has seen. But never told about. What are these things? And who would do such horrible things in which would have someone make the decision to take there own life? Read to find out. My favorite quotes form this book are: "You don’t know what goes on in anyone’s life but your own. And when you mess with one part of a person’s life, you’re not messing with just that part. Unfortunately, you can’t be that precise and selective. When you mess with one part of a person’s life, you’re messing with their entire life. Everything. . . affects everything." The other quote I liked from this book was. “A lot of you cared... just not enough.” The back of the book says...

“ 13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher is a heart-wrenching book that you won’t want to put down. With a new twist every time Clay starts a new tape. It will keep you hooked until the end”

An anonymous reviewer says ”This book is the heartbreaking story of why Hannah Baker decided to commit suicide. She leaves behind tapes telling how certain 13 people were involved in her decision to end her life. Although sometimes she can seem cynical, towards the end you can sympathize with her more and more.”

Kirkus Review says; “After her death, Clay Jensen—who had a crush on Hannah—finds seven cassette tapes in a brown paper package on his doorstep. Listening to the tapes, Hannah chronicles her downward spiral and the 13 people who led her to make this horrific choice. Evincing the subtle—and not so subtle—cruelties of teen life, from rumors, to reputations, to rape, Hannah explains to her listeners that, "in the end, everything matters." Most of the novel quite literally takes place in Clay's head, as he listens to Hannah's voice pounding in his ears through his headphones, creating a very intimate feel for the reader as Hannah explains herself. Her pain is gut-wrenchingly palpable, and the reader is thrust face-first into a world where everything is related, an intricate yet brutal tapestry of events, people and places. Asher has created an entrancing character study and a riveting look into the psyche of someone who would make this unfortunate choice.”

Recommended by Ben Burds

Rumble Fish by S.E. Hinton

The book I read was Rumble Fish, by S.E. Hinton. It’s about a 14 year old boy named Rusty James who lives on the bad side of town with his Dad and his brother Motorcycle Boy. His dad is gone most of the time drinking, and Rusty has to learn how to live life on his own. Rusty isn’t book smart, but was not afraid to get in a fight. He and his best friend Steve loved to spend time at Benny’s Bar. As Rusty James, Steve, and Motorcycle Boy decide to go to the other side of town for a night, but were unexpected about what was going to occur for them. This book is “stylistically superb!” Says the School library Journal. This book is has a lot of action and makes you want to keep reading! The recommended age group is young adult. My favorite quote from the book was "I love fights. I love how I feel before a fight, kind of high, like I can do anything." Read to find out if what happens to Rusty James.

Recommended by Alex Kramer

Runner by Carl Deuker

My review is on the book, Runner, by Carl Deuker. It’s about a boy named Chance Taylor that’s in high school and lives on a small boat that his always drunk dad and him can barely afford. So he tries finding all kinds of different jobs until he finds one certain job where he gets to run and pick up packages that hold something in them but he can’t find out what’s in them without putting his life in danger. He has to pay all the fees to just keep the boat because his dad is an alcoholic and can’t keep a job for very long. A quote from the book is “ I’ve heard about kids that hate their parents for being alcoholics. I’ve never understood that. It’d be like hating a wounded animal for being wounded, which makes no sense at all.” A review from the Kirkus Review is “Deuker’s brisk narrative, long on action if short on embellishment will carry on even the most reluctant of readers in this post-9/11 tale of terrorism on the Puget Sound.” The back says, “ But the weather-beaten sailboat Chance Taylor and his dad call home is thirty years old and hasn’t sailed in years. One step from both homelessness and hunger, Chance worries about things other kids his age would never give a thought: Where will the money come from for the electricity bill, grocery bill, and moorage fees? So when a new job falls his way, he jumps at the opportunity. He knows how much he will earn; what he doesn’t know is how much he will pay.”

Recommeded by Dylan Ambrosy

Sunrise Over Fallujah by Walter Dean Myers

My review is on the book, “Sunrise Over Fallujah,” by Walter Dean Myers. It’s about a guy called Robin “Birdy” Perry that gets stationed in the military. This book just talks about a typical day and about all the different attacks and what they get to do, but it’s put into a great story. You’re always wondering when the next bomb is going to come and if it is going to kill anyone. Or like I always wondered if they got free time and in this book they make it sound like they get to have some fun, by playing soccer with the kids at where ever they’re stationed. This book got rated 4 and a half stars out of 5. The New York Times said “Birdy and his fellow soldiers find themselves in a perplexing hall of mirrors, and we as readers are embedded with them...This is an astonishing book.”

Recommended by Dylan Ambrosy

The book I read is Sunrise over Fallujah. This book takes place in the war that is going on right now. The guy they called “Birdy” tells you about what is going on and who they are after. He’s also in a lot of the action that goes on. I like this book because it tells you about what’s going on in the war today. They are helping the Iraqis like we are.

Here are some quotes from the book. “You’re not bad Perry. Somewhere between Ronaldinho’s grandmother and my dog."

The reading level is young adult. And The New York Times Review says it is “Astonishing”

Recommended by Alan Klostermann

A Long Way From Chicago by Richard Peck

My review is on the book, “A Long Way From Chicago.” This book takes place from 1929 until 1942. I didn’t realize this until the last chapter when I decided to look at the chapter title. It’s about a boy and a girl that head to their grandma’s house out in the middle of nowhere and go on wild adventures. Their grandma had them trespass, see the sheriff in his tidy whites, and feed the homeless in all in one day. This is the only book where two 103 year olds fight over a war that happened 90 years ago from the day that they fought. There really isn’t a beginning, middle, and end type of book. You will have to read this book to hear about all the great adventures they go on. This book is intended for 10-13 year olds. The Kirkus Reviews says “It’s a novel that skillfully captures the nuances of small-town life, elderly man reminisces about his annual trips from Chicago to his grandma’s house in rural Illinois during The Depression.”

Recommended by Dylan Ambrosy

The Blind Side by Michael Lewis

The book my review is on the book The Blind Side. It’s about a boy named Micheal Oher that grew up running from the cops because he was suppose to be in a foster home. His mom was addicted to crack-cocaine so the cops didn’t believe she was in good enough condition to care for her 15 or so children. The cops finally gave up after a year or so, Michael didn’t go to school from the age 10 to about 12. He spent all of his days playing basketball. Not owning a mirror he thought he was going to be the next Michael Jordan, until he started getting slower and slower he realized that he was becoming fat. He got his grades back on track thanks to the Tuohy’s, now he plays for the Baltimore Ravens. The recommended age for reading this book is young adult. A quote from the book is “ I was taking him to the bus.” Right after Michael took the defender across the field and into the fence around the field. He was sick of listening to the guy’s racial comments so he decided it was time for him to go home. The Library Journal says, “ His strange, sad, and yet inspiring tale is grippingly told here.”

Recommended by Dylan Ambrosy

Hacking Harvard by Robin Wasserman

I recently read Hacking Harvard by Robin Wasserman. I really enjoyed this book because I thought the title sounded interesting. It’s about a group of friends Eric, Max, and Schwarz they all attend high school as seniors, one day Max makes a bet with some rivals of theirs, the task is simple get a low life into the University of Harvard. One problem with this though Max’s wager is a little more than Eric and Schwarz signed up for. What will happen when these 3 friends HAVE to get a F student into one of the most prestigious schools in the country? Read to find out. My favorite quote of the book is one of the chapter guidelines “There is no success like failure.” The appropriate reading age is Young Adult. The Booklist says Wasserman, author of the novels in the Seven Deadly Sins series and a Harvard alumni, writes a story that is harsh, funny, sophisticated, unpredictable, and edgy. The carefully crafted story line is full of twists and turns, concluding with a surprising ending, and the central characters are multidimensional and multitalented young people who speak in authentic, clever dialogue. The vivid Cambridge, Massachusetts, setting and an ironic “don’t-try-this-at-home” introduction add to this memorable reading experience. I recommend this book to anyone who likes edgy storyline.

Recommeded by Nolan Kennedy

Gym Candy by Carl Deuker

I’m doing my book review on Gym Candy by: Carl Deuker. I thought that this book was very interesting. It is about a guy named Mick Johnson. He is a great football player. His dad Mike was a great football player as well. He played for the Washington Huskies and later went to the NFL. As a child Mick had to be the best not only because his dad was great but because his dad demanded perfection. Once in high school Mick was going to be the best. But after spring training he was named second string running back. He and his dad were very upset. When at the last game the first string couldn’t play. So Mick got his chance to shine. The game was the biggest game of the entire season. It was for the championship. He was doing great the entire game. It came done to the last play of the game. They had the ball on the one yard line. He got the ball ran to the outside and got tackled one foot short of the endzone. Everyone was calling him weak. He wanted to get strong really fast. He tried lifting weights and he wasn’t growing fast enough so he decided to take steroids. You will have to read to find out if he get caught or not. The Booklist says, “Deuker skillfully complements a sobering message with plenty of exciting on-field action.” This book is for young adults. My favorite quote from this book is “I zigged when he was expecting a zag, and I was by him.”

Recommended by Collin Koerperich

The Daughters Break the Rules by Joanna Philbin

I read the book The Daughters Break the Rules by Joann Philbin. This is the 2ND book of the series, The Daughters. This book is told from Carina Jurgenson’s point of view. Carina who’s dad is million-air Karl Jurgenson. Carina has unlimited use of credit cards, and is able to do anything that pleases her. Until, her dad cuts her off and she goes from spendin over 1,000 dollars a week to only $20. Her new fab updated phone is now an old ancient dinosaur. Her relationship with her father has never been too friendly. Suddenly he’s forcing Carina to grow up fast, too fast. Carina of course does not agree with her dad and gives him the silent treatment. But after awhile Carina gets asked to go on a Ski trip with a boy named Carter. It would only cost 1,000 dollars. Carina doesn’t dare ask her dad. Instead she tries and earn the money herself, by helping Ava who is know to be the biggest brat at her school, plan her Snowflake ball party. With absolutely no money or experiences in planning parties she tells a little lie to Ava. But will that lie just keep growing and growing? Ava agreed to pay $1,000 to Carina if she can get the job done right, the way Ava wants it. Carina meets knew people during her job experience that hep her plan the party. They maybe no be the rich and well-known music or decor, but Carina thinks the will get the job done! Will Carina be able to get the job done? Will her planning the party lose her friendship with her two best friends, Hudson and Lizzie? What about her Dad and her relationship with him and her long lost mother? Read the book to find out!

The thing I like most about this book is Carina’s father and her relationship between one another. Although things may seem horrible between them but you know thing will start to get better once he cuts her off.

“ A thoroughly enjoyable debut.” - Publishers Weekly

“Ever Wonder what it’s really like to grow up in Manhattan with a famous mom or dad? Well, Joanna Philbin is going to tell you. Gossip Girl herself would love this new series.”- Cecily von Ziegesar, author of the #1 New York Time bestselling Gossip Girl series.

I think this book is best for young adults. I recommend this book to anyone that likes readying drama filled stories!

Recommended by Ashley Botsford

Hi my name is Lucy Mulert, and I read the book The Daughters Break the Rules by Joanna Philbin. This book is about three girls. Lizzie Summers, Hudson Jones, and Carina Juregensen, who is the main character is this book. After leaking out a rumor that her billionaire father stole from his charity, Carina is in big trouble. Her dad decides to teach her a lesson the hard way. Carina’s father cuts her off, while Carina has plans for a ski trip in Switzerland, with no way to pay for the expenses. To earn the money she needs, Carina lies her way into becoming the party planner for the Silver Snowflake Ball, but this job is not as easy as it seems. Everyone expects her to have the best connections because of her father, but things don’t always work out. She is faced with the choice between lying to her friends and family, or still being the billionaire’s rich daughter who has everything she could ever need. This thrilling novel shows how lying will get you in trouble, and that you have to make up for your mistakes no matter what.
This book is for Young Adults, and people will enjoy the amazing novel with the twists and turns of Carina’s party planning job that lands her in a mess she has to fix, before everything goes wrong. My favorite quote from the book is ‘Carina followed Lizzie as the they elbowed past the tech guys and roadies. I’m sorry Hudson, she thought. I had no idea. I’m so sorry. And as she set off toward the stage, Carina wondered if Hudson’s career might have just ended before it even started.

There were many great reviews on the book The Daughters Break the Rules. Cecily von Ziegensar, author of the Gossip Girl series said “Ever wonder what it’s really like to grow up in Manhattan with a famous mom or dad? Well, Joanna Philbin is going to tell you. Gossip Girl herself would love this new series!” Publishers Weekly said The Daughters Break the Rules is “A thoroughly enjoyable debut.” Alyson Noel, the Author of The Immortals series said “Reading Joanna Philbin’s funny, witty, and poignant debut is like getting an insider’s glimpse into the gilded world of those born to be famous.

This book did an amazing job of giving you a glimpse of the life of a famous person, and there were many great details all throughout the book. Joanna’s book captures the reader, and you don’t want to put down the book until you finish it! This is a great book, and many people will enjoy this well- written book.

Recommended by Lucy Mulert

The People of Sparks by Jeanne DuPrau

The People of Sparks is a thrilling science fiction novele by Jeanne DuPrau, book of the Ember series #2. Doon and Lina went on an adventure to discover new land and found a city miles from where they traveled. After a cliff hanger in The City of Ember It picks right back up in The People of Sparks. Doon and Lina had led there whole town to safety. Something people have been dreaming for years. After the People of Ember are welcomed to the new town with shelter, food, and with only a limited amount of resources that will help them surive things quickly go wrong.Conflicts arrive between the to after vandilisim is discovered within the town. From vandillism to violenice battle is broke out among the groups. Lina sneaks away and when she comes back she’s welcomed with a surpise. With a shocking twist in the end readers will be amazed. After years and years thing are revealed to the towns. Something that could change eveything.

Some of my favorite quotes are: “The City of Ember? What’s that? I’ve never heard of it”

and “"Remember the city, the city remember Where treasure is hidden under the ground

The city, the city, always remember”

I think this book is best for ages 9-12 years old but is a fun, adventurous, easy read for young adults.

Publishers Weekly: In this ambitious sequel to The City of Ember, "DuPrau offers a thought-provoking novel about brinkmanship and the way societies can plant the insidious seeds of war,"

“DuPrau clearly explores themes of nonviolence and when to stand up for someone else”-School Library Journal

“The fast paced tale of post-Apocalyptic strife will resonate with new and returning fans alike”-Kirkus Reviews

I recamend this book for anyone that loves adventurous and books packed full of surprises. And for a quick read!

Recommended by Ashley Botsford

Night Hoops by Carl Deuker

I recently read the book Night Hoops by Carl Deuker. I liked this book a lot because it was about basketball and how to work as team even if you don’t get along with someone. It’s about a kid named Nick Abbot he is a sophomore in high school and has an older brother Scott who is a basketball phenomenon, but would rather spend his time playing his instrument. The kid next door Trent shows more hustle than anyone in Nick’s school, but he’s also likely to start a fight faster than anyone Nick knows. Can Nick help Trent control himself so they can win a state championship???? You’ll have to read to find out. My favorite quote from the book is “It makes me sick to see him waste his talent” I like this quote because Nick’s Dad is totally right about his brother. The appropriate reading age is young adult. The book list says “Always in the shadow of his older brother, Scott, Nick begins to catch his father's attention when Scott gives up basketball to spend more time on his music, and Nick's basketball prowess develops. Nick's talent is further nurtured by nightly one-on-one games with a disturbing neighbor, Trent Dawson. A master at writing good basketball sequences, Deuker vividly depicts every fast break, every trap, but as with On the Devil's Court , he uses basketball as a device to tackle larger issues. This time, Deuker is writing about choices: Scott elects music instead of basketball and his father's approval; Trent seems to be choosing school (via basketball) instead of a life of crime; and Nick decides to support Trent despite his father's advice and his peers' disapproval. Complex characters make the story compelling. The basketball coach, Mr. O'Leary, is particularly endearing, gruff, and exacting but also willing to gamble on the kids when the moment seems right. Deuker offers no easy answers; he's honest enough to leave Trent's future unresolved. The conclusion isn't entirely realistic, but the story is satisfying and hopeful.”

Recommended by Nolan Kennedy

Stolen Children by Peg Kehret

The the book I’m doing my review on is Stolen Children by: Peg Kehret. I really like this book because it makes you keep wanting more. This book is about Amy who just lost her dad to a car accident. She wants to make up for it by babysitting this rich family’s daughter Kendra. The babysitting job is going just fine when she hears a car engine speed away. She goes to Kendra’s room and she’s not there. That’s when she hears the car engine again and someone comes in the house and takes Amy. The kidnappers are sending videos to both family’s. That’s when Amy decides to send messages in the videos. The family’s don’t get the messages at first but Amy’s best friends figures out the clues. My favorite quote from this book is “ It wasn’t luck. Amy got rescued because she used her brain.” The Kirkus Review says, “Fast-paced, plot driven... A sure hit.” Other books that Peg Kehret wrote are Abduction, The Ghost’s Grave, Earthquake Terror, and I’m Not Who You Think I Am.

Recommended by Collin Koerperich

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by JK Rowling

I read the book Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. By J.K. Rowling. It is the first book in the Harry Potter series. Harry Potter is a first year at Hogwarts and he meets his new friends Ron Weasly and Hermoine Granger. It tells the mischief and adventures he has at his first year. He was living at the dreadful Dursleys house when he started receiving the letters. His Uncle Vernon would burn, rip and do whatever it took to get rid of the letters until the finally flooded his house and they left. Hagrid found them on an island and took Harry to take him to the Hogwarts train so he could finally attend the school of his dreams and reach his full potential as a wizard!

The recommended age is: 9-12

These books are in Hardcover and Paperback, also all of them have been or are going to be made into movies!

Kirkus review says, It's slanted toward action-oriented readers, who will find that Briticisms meld with all the other wonders of magic school.

A quote from the book is “ Difficult very difficult. Plenty of courage, I see. Not a bad mind either. There’s talent, oh my goodness, yes- and a nice thirst to prove yourself, now that’s interesting... So where shall I put you? GRYFFINDOR!”

Recommended by Lisa Greenwood

The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

I’m doing my review on the book The Boy Who Dared by: Susan Campbell Bartoletti. If you like a quick and easy read this is a great book. I really liked this book because it made thankful for everything that I have. It also gave me information about World War two that I didn’t know. This book is about a young German boy who grows up and has big ideas. Helmuth is living in the time of Hitler. He has two brothers named Hans and Gerhard. Helmuth decides to join a group called the Hitler Youth. He doesn’t want to but his step dad Hugo tells him to because he has great leader skills. Hitler has created dumb laws and Helmuth wants to put an end to these dumb laws. So Helmuth created these leaflets that says who the laws need to be changed and that Hitler is lying to the German people. My favorite quote from this book is “Freedom has always been dangerous,” says Helmuth. “Come to my place tonight, and I’ll prove the Nazis are lying. But wait after nine, after my grandparents go to bed.” The suggested reading age is 9-12.

Recommended by Collin Koerperich

Trapped by Michael Northrup

I recently read the book Trapped by Michael Northrup. I liked this book because of the connections I can make with the characters. It’s about Scotty Weems and 6 other kids that are snowed in at their school. They all are waiting for their rides when a horrible blizzard sweeps New England. They’re not scared at first but as the hours pass and the snow gets higher they all are wondering when the snow will stop and when they’ll be rescued. Will the live or perish in the sheer cold, you’ll have to read to find out!!!! My favorite quote from the book is “School, practice, homework, whatever. Excuse me for not watching the stupid Weather Channel”, I like this quote because my friends always wonder why I don’t watch the news. The appropriate reading age is young adult. The Booklist says “It’s a setup just plausible enough to give you chills. A nor’easter, which will ultimately be known as the worst blizzard in U.S. history, sweeps into a rural New England community, trapping seven kids inside their high school for days. Northrop begins with some dark foreshadowing—“Not all of us made it”—which makes the students’ gradual realization of their predicament all the more frightening. First the snow piles up past the windows; then the water pipes freeze; then the roof starts making ominous noises. What begins as a sort of life-or-death The Breakfast Club (there’s the delinquent, the pretty girl, the athlete, and so on) quickly turns into a battle for survival. The book is too short; in many ways, that’s a compliment. Northrop establishes so many juicy conflicts and potential disasters that you long to see them carried out to their full, gruesome potential. Instead, the book ends right when it’s hitting its stride—but there’s no denying that the pages turn like wildfire.”

Recommended by Nolan Kennedy