And the winner is...

THE SIXTH GRADERS! Congratulations on winning the Golden Book Us Reading Trophy this year!

It was a blast celebrating with those of you who came to the ice cream party last week. We have called or emailed all of our Kindle Fire winners, so congratulations to them as well.

Thanks again for reading and posting and making Us, Reading so much fun this year. Have a wonderful school year, and don't forget to visit us at the library!

Congrats! You did it!

Congrats, Upper School Readers!!!

Thanks for an amazing summer!  We've enjoyed reading all of your great posts, hearing about the books you've been reading, and all of the fun things you've been doing!

We hope you will join us at the ICE CREAM PARTY next week - here's the info you need to know:

Thursday September 1
2:30-3:30 pm
Cambridge Public Library - 449 Broadway St. - Community Room (That's on floor L2)

We will draw prizes for: gift certificates from JP Licks, Kindle Fires, and of course, reveal the winning team of the GOLDEN BOOK US READING TROPHY (pictured below)!!!

We hope to see you there!

-Clara, O'Neill branch

The Macmaillan book of Greek Myths by: Alice Low

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

How did you start learning about Greek Myths?

-6th grade

Minion by: John David Anderson

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

Why is the main character a robber?

-6th grade

Mabye a Fox by: Kathi Appelt and Allison Mcghee

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

What inspired you to write this book?

the Heart of Glass by: VIvian French

If this book were made into a movie, who should play the main character, and why?

I think that Emma Watson should play the main character because she has played a lot of action filled roles and she looks like the main character.

-6th grade

the Music of Zombies by: Vivian French

What would you want to see happen to the characters after this book (or the last of the series) ends?

I would like to see Marcus and Grace have many more adventures and then I would like for Marcus to live in the house of the ancient crones.

-6th grade

the Flight of Dragons by: Vivian French

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

Why did you decide to make the twins so eager to prove themselves to their grandparents?

-6th grade

Return to the Isle of the Lost by: Mellisa De La Cruz

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

If you had to choose a favorite character who would it be and why? or Where you inspired by anything in this book?

-6th grade

The Encyclopedya of me by: Karen Rivers

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?
Why do the best friends in the story have to break up? It dampens the plot a little bit when that happens.


-6th grade

The Land of Stories:An Authors Odyssey by: Chris Colfer

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?

I would TOTALLY recommend this book. Not is it only as remarkable as the four other books in The Land of Stories series it has just as much excitement and comedy inside it along with amazing new characters and Connors stories.


-6th grade

The Isle of the Lost by: Mellisa De La Cruz

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

Why did you decide to base this story on villains instead of heroes? Was it to give us perspective of how the villains thought and acted?

-6th grade

Voyage on the Great Titanic:RMS Titanic,1912 by: Ellen Emerson White

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?

If someone liked this book I would recommend the rest of the Dear America series. And I would also recommend the Royal Diares series which is basically the Dear America series except with royals.

The Legue of Unexeptinal Children by: Gitty Daneshvari

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

Why did you decide to base this story on average normal children who are so boring even their teachers forget them? Why not base it on extraordinary children?

-6th grade

The Astounding Broccoli Boy by: Cattrell Boyce

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?

I would change the book so that the main character actually had real super powers that stayed with them. I would make it so that the main characters actually had super powers because the book makes it seem like they do have powers but it turns out to not actually be true.

-6th grade

Leisl & Po by: Lauren Oliver

Which minor character in this book would you like to know more about? If there were a whole book about them, what would it be called?

I would like to know more about the rich Lady Premeire who says she of royal blood and turns out to have been a fisherman's daughter when she was a child. Even if she is portrayed as an evil women from the book it seems she was bullied when she was a child and had a younger brother.

-6th grade

The True meaning of Smekday by: Adam Rex

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?

I would change the fact that the Boov are making ever one go to Florida so that humans had the choice to either go to Florida or stay in their native states. I would change it because then Florida would not stay very overcrowded and people would maby.e be able to live in peace with the Boov

-6th grade

The Princess Diares by: Meg Cabot

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?

I would not recommend this book because of two reasons. The first reason is this book is kind of dull in a no action way. The second reason I do not like this book is the plot kind of feels like a fairy tale.

-6th grade

Alice through the Looking Glass adapted by: Kari Sutherland

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?

If someone happens to like this book they should probably read the original Alice in Wonderland. They should also read Into the Woods because it is also about a girl who goes on an unexpected journey. I would also suggest the Percy Jackson series even if this book is set in a different style to that to Alice Through the Looking Glass.

-6th grade

Jake Ransom and the Skull Kings Shadow by: James Rollins

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

Why did the author decide to put all ancient tribes together in a town? If this really had happened wouldn't the tribes kill each other to claim the city as their own? I would ask this because the author decided to put the Mayans,Vikings,Neanderthal, and Romans together. All of them except for the Neanderthals are warlike tribes that have histories of going into war against other tribes.

-6th grade

The Ruins of Gorlan by:John Flanagan

If this book were a food/color/song/smell, what would it be and why?

If this book was a smell it would probably be the smell of trees,horses and vanilla. The trees would represent the amount of time spent out in the woods and grasslands the horse would represent the animals and the vanilla would represent how calm the book is in some parts.

-6th grade

The Blossoming Universe of Violet Diamond by: Brenda Woods

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?

I would most like to be friends with the main characters best friend Athena. I wold like to be friends with her because Athena seems like a very funny nice girl who ifs a loyal best friend. i would rather be friends with her than Violet ( the main character) because even if Violet is nice during some parts of this story she seems to be unaware of other peoples feelings and says hurtful things.(mostly her Mum)

-6th grade

The Land of Forgotten Girls by: Erin Entrada Kelly

Which minor character in this book would you like to know more about? If there were a whole book about them, what would it be called?

I would like to know more about the main characters mother even though she died. I would like to know more because the mother is vital to some parts of the story but the main character mostly mentions the stories that her mother told. She doesn't even tell the readers the mothers name!

-6th grade

Every Single Second by: Tricia Springstubb

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
I would not recommend this book because of three reasons. Firstly this book has a lot of violence in it, secondly this books plot feels very unstable and the book itself is very confusing and thirdly this books main character who describes the story leaves out some important details and then bases important parts of the story on it and tells the story later.


-6th grade

Horrible Histories: The Vile Victorians- Terry Deary

I Already know this book is gonna be funny, because on the first page of this story, this is the conversation:
Teacher: " The Victorians were Vile, What's vile Sarah?"
Sarah: " Please, Sir, a Vile's what I clean my vingernails with!"
Teacher: " Stupid Child."

Tell me if you found the joke. Hint: Change Sarah's Vs into Fs.


-Emie, 7th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Hieronymus White: A Bird who Believed that He ALways was Right- Jeff Moss

 didn't know this book was basically a very long poem, until I opened it. So, if you don't like poems, I don't think this book is for you. But if your the opposite, then this book is for you!


-Emie, 7th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Apollo the Brilliant One by George O'Connor

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?


This is SUCH a good book!!! It is a story of Apollo told by the muses. I think it is my favorite Olympian book yet, and I would totally recommend it!!! I feel bad for Apollo because I think he is misunderstood. READ THIS BOOK!!!!


This is actually my last book review!


-Juila, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Ares Bringer of War by George O'Connor

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

Ares is the blood-loving, cruel god of war who is easily my least favorite god or goddess on Mount Olympus. This book has a lot of violence, because of the Trojan War, but it isn't too disturbing. If I could ask George O'Connor one question, it would be; what was his favorite book to illustrate?

I am SO sad because this is very possibly the last book I'll be reviewing. NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!

-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Aphrodite Goddess of Love by George O'Connor

What books would you recommend to the main character of the book and why?


This beautifully illustrated story about the goddess of love and beauty makes me think that Aphrodite truly is vain. She also started the Trojan War, which wasn't the best move on her part! I would recommend any books about fashion and beauty to Aphrodite, because, other than love, that's all she truly cares about.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Poseidon Earth Shaker by George O'Connor

If this book were made into a movie, who should play the main character, and why?


In this book in the Olympian series, you get to know Poseidon, lord of the seas, better through a bunch of tales. I have a soft spot for Poseidon because he always loses. If this book was made into a movie, Johnny Depp should play Poseidon, because he is spooky and mysterious and looks like how I imagine Poseidon to look.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Hades Lord of the Dead by George O'Connor

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


In this story about the leader of the Underworld, Hades, Hades kidnaps Demeter's daughter Persephone to marry because he is lonely. It is about the search for Persephone and the final compromise in the end. The character in this book that I would most want to be friends with is Hecate, because she is magical and mysterious. The character I would least want to be friends with is Hades, because he is a gloomy and dark kidnapper!


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Hera the Goddess and her Glory by George O'Connor

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?


This book is about Hera, Queen of the Olympians, and her whole story, much of it about Hercules and his tasks. If I could rewrite one part of the story, it would be that Hercules had to do all those tasks, even though they are very entertaining!


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Athena Grey-Eyed Goddess by George O'Connor

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


This comic book is the story about my personal favorite greek goddess, Athena, goddess of war BUT- unlike Ares, her stepbrother- war AND skill. Athena is Zeus' favorite child. The character I most want to be friends with in this book is Athena, because she is totally cool and headstrong. My least favorite character in this book is Ares, because he is brutal and violent, and even though he and Athena are step siblings, they are complete opposites.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Zeus King of the Gods by George O'Connor

Which minor character in this book would you like to know more about? If there were a whole book about them, what would it be called?


Zeus King of the Gods is an incredible comic book about... wait for it... Zeus! Zeus is the head of all of the Greek Gods who live on Mount Olympus, but it wasn't always that way! This book explains the struggles Zeus went through to become King of the Gods. The minor character I want to know more about is Rhea. If there were a whole book about her, it would be called Living With An Idiotic Husband.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


The Trumpet of the Swan is an amazing book about Louis, a trumpeter swan who doesn't have a voice. His father and a boy named Sam Beaver help him, but when he falls in love with a beautiful swan named Serena and she refuses him, his father steals a trumpet so he can steal her heart. In the end, Louis finds his voice. The character in this book that I would most want to be friends with is Louis, because he never gives up. My least favorite character is the storekeeper, because he is violent.

I studied trumpeter swans in 4th grade!

-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?


Walk Two Moons is such a good book about Sal, a girl whose mother died, and the search she goes to find out exactly what happened. This book has three parts going on; Sal on her farm in the past, Sal in her new her new town in Ohio, and Sal on her Road Trip. I would definitely recommend this book to all readers!


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?


Ninth Ward is an amazing book about a girl, Lanesha, who can see spirits and the struggles her family goes through during Hurricane Katrina. I would DEFINITELY recommend this book!!! It is amazing, and I think readers from third grade to adults will all love it.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The School for Good and Evil; the last Ever After by Sonan Chainani

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


When Sophie accepted the School Master's ring, the school instantly turned evil. Meanwhile, Agatha and Tedros aren't doing so well, either. When Agatha's mom dies to save her, Tedros and Agatha, the squabbling couple, set out to free Sophie, with the help of Merlin and 12 other fairy tale characters. But what if Sophie doesn't want to be saved? If someone liked this book, they should read the Harry Potter series, because they are both exciting fantasies.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The School for Good and Evil; A World without Princes by Sonan Chainani

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?


In this sequel to the School For Good and Evil, Sophie is sent back into the woods. Agatha, determined to save her, rescues Sophie, and together they try to go back to school. But upon their return, they find that the once School for Good and Evil has been turned into a School for Girls and Boys. Girls and Boys now hate each other, and are plotting to make each other slaves. Tedros started this because he was furious with Agatha for choosing Sophie over him. Could it be that the only way out is through their fairy tale? If I could ask the author/illustrator one question, it would be "Do you prefer Sophie or Agatha?"


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Inker's Shadow by Allen Say

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


In this sequel to Drawing From Memory, Allen is sent from Japan to a military academy in California. He is forced to wear a uniform and live in a barracks. He barely knows enough English to have a conversation. Allen saves enough money to buy a car, escapes, and tries to begin a fresh start. If someone liked this book, they should read Drawing From Memory.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Drawing From Memory by Allen Say

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?


In this autobiography, Allen lives in Japan during World War II. His father discourages him from drawing, but Allen never gives up. He gets a scholarship to a school for arts, all the time having to get top grades. This is a wonderfully written, amazing story. I would definitely recommend it, especially to artists, because IT IS AWESOME!


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Charlotte's Web by E.B. White

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


Wilbur the pig used to be owned by Fern, but when he was sold across the street to a farm, he was alone. Then he met Charlotte, a cunning and friendly spider who saved his life. I would most want to be friends with Charlotte, because she is friendly and intelligent. I would least want to be friends with Templeton, a disgusting, mischievous rat, who cares only about himself and food.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Meanest Doll in the World by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?


In this sequel to The Doll People, Annabelle and Tiffany meet Princess Mimi, a scheming, evil doll, who causes nothing but trouble. This book will make you laugh and sigh over the funny adventures of two dolls. If I could ask the author/illustrator one question, it would be "Did you have dolls when you were growing up?"


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Doll People by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?


Annabelle Doll is eight, but she has been around for a hundred years. Life in the dollhouse was somewhat boring... until the Funcrafts, another doll family, moved in. This book is full of adventure, friendship, and the risk of being "seen".


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


Mary Lennox is an orphan who goes to live at her uncle's huge mansion after her parents die. She discovers a key that leads her to a mysterious garden that is full of secrets. I would most want to be friends with Dickon, because he is very good with animals (and people). I would least want to be friends with Colin, though he is nice, because he is a little spoiled.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Homer Price by Robert McCloskey

What books would you recommend to the main character of the book and why?


This old book is about a boy who lives in a town called Canterburg. Funny things always seem to be happening to him, and he's always going on adventures. I would recommend new books to Homer, so he could see what life is like in the "future".


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Allie, First at Last by Angela Cervantes

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


Allie feels overshadowed by her perfect family. So when a school Trailblazer contest is announced, Allie feels that this is her chance to win for once! If someone liked this book, they should read Gaby, lost and found, also by Angela Cervantes. This book is a story of friendship, love, and the true definition of winning.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Sugar by Jewell Parker Rhodes

What books would you recommend to the main character of the book and why?


Slavery is over, but Sugar and her family, living on a plantation, still feel like slaves. But Sugar has a way of finding fun for herself, especially with forbidden friend Billy, the plantation owners' son. One day Chinese workers are brought in, and the adults fear that the Chinese will replace them. So Sugar must find a way to unite the two groups together. I would recommend books like Who Was Sojourner Truth to Sugar, because books about slaves who escaped and changed the world might be empowering to her.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


In 1936, in Flint, Bud, a motherless boy, is on the run. Bud's suitcase contains flyers advertising Herman E. Calloway and his famous band. Bud thinks Herman might be his father, and there's only one way to find out: meeting Herman himself. If someone liked this book, they should read The Watsons Go to Birmingham


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Mighty Miss Malone by Christopher Paul Curtis

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


Deza Malone is the smartest kid in her class. Her older brother, Jimmie, is not, but he can sing like an angel. When the Great Depression causes her dad to leave to find a job, Deza, Jimmie, and mother follow, hoping to catch up with him. When Jimmie leaves to become a famous singer, Deza and her mother are left alone. But they never give up hope.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!!!! YOU SHOULD TOTALLY READ IT!!!!!!!
If you liked this book, you should read Bud, not Buddy, or The Watsons go to Birmingham, also by Christopher Paul Curtis.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Terrible Two Get Worse by Jory John and Mac Barnett

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?


Miles and Niles are on a pranking role! Ever since they pulled off the cow prank, things have been happening right and left: Tables were nailed to the ceiling, ghosts appeared in the background of school pictures, and the awful principal's car mysteriously smelled of feet. But when a prank goes too far, and the principal is fired and replaced by his father, a man even worse, all pranks seem to go wrong. Can Miles and Niles find a way to bring fun back into school? Or are their pranking days over? If I could rewrite one part of the story, it would be the part where Miles and Niles reveal to the school that they are the pranksters.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Terrible Two by Kevin Cornell and Mac Barnett

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?


The Terrible Two is the story of two very different boys who have one thing in common: pranking. Miles just moved to Yawney Valley, a boring place full of cows. He hates it. Niles is a Goody-Two shoes, always doing extra work. The two boys, once enemies, join forces and pull of the most epic prank Yawney Valley has ever seen. I would definitely recommend this book to pranksters, jokers, or people who like a laugh, because it is full of drama, jokes, and, you guessed it, PRANKS!


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Girls Who Rocked the World by Michelle Roehm McCann and Amelie Welden

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


This book is a collection of short biographies about famous woman who changed the world, from Joan of Arc to Mother Teresa. I highly recommend it. If someone liked this book, they should read Boys Who Rocked the World or The Daring Book for Girls.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Boys Who Rocked The World by Michelle Roehm McCann

Which minor character in this book would you like to know more about? If there were a whole book about them, what would it be called?


Boys Who Rocked the World is an interesting collection of stories about certain men and what they did to change the world (example, Chester Greenwood, and inventor from the United States who invented earmuffs). If I could learn more about a character in this book, it would be Chico Mendes, a Brazilian activist who helped saved trees. If there was a book about him, it would be called Changing Chico.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?


Bridge to Terabithia was an awesome, moving book about two kids (Jess and Leslie) living in earlier times. This book will leave you in tears at the end. If I could rewrite one part of the story, it would be that Leslie dies.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Dominic by William Stieg

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


Dominic is a fun-loving dog who sets out into the world to seek his fortune (cliche). He soon finds that a dangerous gang called the Doomsday Gang are on the loose, and they trap him in a hole. He escapes and befriends an old pig named Badger. When Badger dies, he leaves his huge fortune to Dominic. The Doomsday are after the riches, and Dominic has to fight them off. Dominic meets many animals along his journey, and gives jewels to many of them. There was a Donkey who helped carry his jewels, a poor boar who was robbed before his wedding, a slow turtle who tried to lend a hand, and a friendly goose who was ambushed by the Doomsday Gang.
Later, on his way to the boar's wedding, he meets a tiny elephant who forgot a magic word that can make all his wishes come true. When the merry wedding is interrupted by the band of criminals, Dominic decides to finish them once and for all.
I would most want to be friends with the goose, because she is a friendly and fun creature. I would least want to be friends with the fox, because he is a sly, cruel, heartless creature. Though this book is a little below my reading level, I would highly recommend it. It is full of excitement and fun, and is a pleasant relaxing story.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Dog Who Caught The Crook... And Other Incredible True Dog Tales by Allan Zullo and Mara Bovsun

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


The Dog Who Caught The Crook... And Other Incredible True Stories is an amazing collection of true stories about savior dogs that makes me love canines even more. This collection of dog stories has many different types of dogs in it; heroes, rescuers and mischief-makers. This book will warm your heart, make you cry, and at the end of it you will be astounded and wondering "how is that possible?!" The character in this book that I would most want to be friends with is Jet, a brave, sweet dog that saved her owner's life. My least favorite characters are everyone who told Robbie to put his dog Sophie down.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Who Were The Beatles? by Geoff Edgers

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?


Who Were The Beatles? is another good book in the Who Is/Was/Were series. It is about the famous rock band from the 60s who changed music. They all had different personalities; John, the peace guy, Paul, the romantic, George, shyer, and Ringo, my personal favorite. It is about these four boys and how they made music come more alive. If I could change one part of the story, it would either be that John was killed or that George had cancer and died. But Paul and Ringo are alive, and I got to see both of them play!


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

What Else Is New?

I was at Portugal all summer, so I couldn't post anything!!!!!!!!! But, I read a lot.


-Isabella, 8th Grade, CSUS

What Else Is New?

i am writing a novel!!!!!


-Isabella, 8th Grade, CSUS

Stranger, Albert Camus

THis book was originally written in french, then translated to english. After his mother dies, he finds himself lost but then at foot with another tragedie. READ<3


-Isabella, 8th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Island of the Blue Dolphins

The Island of the Blue Dolphins is about a girl and her tribe who live on an island. One summer the Aleuts arrive at their island to hunt otter. After getting into a fight with the Aleuts, Karana, the girl, and her tribe have it hard. There is not as much food, and they have lost their leader. So they decide to leave the island. But a girl is left behind. Karana. This book is so sad, reading about Karana struggle for survival.


-Isabella, 8th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

We're close to the end!

You have until the end of the day tomorrow, Friday, August 26th, to get your reviews counted!


-Amanda, Central  Square Branch Library

Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
This was a truly wonderful book! It told the story of three children around that world who all somehow encountered the same harmonica. They all had different things that they had to accomplish. This books beautifully weaves their stories together, creating a touching book about hope, love, and they joy of music. I would recommend this book to anyone who at or above fifth grade reading level.


-Julia, 7th Grade, Rindge Avenue Upper School

Diary of a wimpy kid: Old school- Jeff Kinney

I've read this book before, But, I just wanted to re-read it, since Diary of a Wimpy kids are so funny. In this book Greg's mom convinces the whole town to go electronics-free. But, since greg is such a couch potato, hew doesn't like this new environment. On top of that, he has to go to camp. With his dad.


-Emie, 7th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Wayside School: Is Falling Down- Louis Sachar

My favorite part: Pages: 14-18
There's a girl named Bebe. For three days straight, Bebe says that her brother Ray keeps messing up her homework, So Miss Jewels gives her A+ for all three assignments, and a tootsie roll pop for each too. When Miss Jewels called Bebe's mother, and told her about Ray she said "Who's Ray?"


-Emie, 7th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Wayside School: Gets a Little stranger- Louis Sachar

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?


I would ask the Author:
What lead you to create such a fun, wacky, interesting book?


-Emie, 7th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Sideways Stories from Wayside school- Louis Sachar

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


All the books have there own problems that are solved by the end of the book.. So, another book you could read is: Way Side School: Gets a little stranger, and Wayside school: Is Falling Down. In that order.


-Emie, 7th Grade,  Cambridge Street Upper School

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?


After Dumbledore dies, Snape becomes the headmaster. Harry, now seventeen, Ron, and Hermione have no desire to return to Hogwarts. When Bill's wedding is interrupted by Death Eaters, they make their escape. Now living at the old Order of the Phoenix headquarters, Ron, Hermione, and Harry continue their search for Horcruxes. They have to live in the woods, though, when the entrance to their home is discovered after a trip to the Ministry. Ron runs off, leaving Hermione heartbroken. He returns in time to save Harry's life, and destroy another Horcrux. They are captured and sent to Malfoy Manor, where Dobby sets them free, with the cost of his life (R.I.P.). When Voldemort finds the Elder Wand, one of the Deathly Hallows (powerful objects from a fairy tale), Harry might seem doomed. But with a trip to Gringotts, help from Hogwarts friends, and discoveries about Snape, Dumbledore, and himself, all might not be lost. If I could rewrite one part o f the story, it would be that Lupin, Tonks, and Fred died.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

When My Name Was Keoko by Linda Sue Park

What would you want to see happen to the characters after this book (or the last of the series) ends?


When My Name Was Keoko is a truly incredible story that alternates between Sun-Hee and Tae-Yul, brother and sister, through the span of fives years (1940-1945). It is based on the true happenings when Japan took over Korea. Sun-Hee, a girl who is an expert at schoolwork, and Tae-Yul, her older brother who has a passion for planes, start going through hard times when the Japanese force the Korean to do things; change their names to Japanese ones, give the Japanese their metal. After the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor and his family goes through more hard times, Tae-Yul knows that he must join the army in order to provide his family with food and other necessities. He ends up becoming a kamikaze (a pilot), and, about to go on a mission that he knows will bring his death, the weather becomes terrible, and he returns home, to the happiness of his family. In the end things get back to normal, and I definitely recommend reading this book to find out exactly wha t happens! After this book, I would want to see Uncle (my favorite character) return.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood prince by J.K. Rowling

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?


This book starts with Dumbledore taking Harry to convince an old colleague of his to teach Potions at Hogwarts. Harry stays with the Weasleys until classes begin. Harry takes Potions with Professor Slughorn and receives an old copy of a potions book. He finds that the book was owned by a mysterious potion master who called himself the half-blood prince. Using his written tips, Harry receives top grades in potions. Meanwhile Harry is training every night with Dumbledore to find Horcruxes (objects that can keep you alive) and discover secrets about Slughorn and Voldemort. If I could rewrite one part of the story, it would be the part where Dumbledore dies.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Encyclopedia Brown Cracks the Case by Donald J. Sobol

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


Leroy Brown (or Encyclopedia) is Idaville's 10 year old detective. In this collection of mysteries, Encyclopedia and his sidekick Sally encounter an astronaut duck, a missing brooch, stolen Confederate stamps, a lemonade stand mystery, and more. If someone liked this book, they should read other mysteries like Nancy Drew or Sherlock Holmes.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

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

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?


Before he gets to Hogwarts, Harry is taken to the Order of the Phoenix headquarters, a place dedicated to stopping Voldemort, who is growing more powerful. Harry goes on trial for using the Patronus charm out of school. He gets off free. At school, there is a new teacher there, Professor Umbridge. She works at the Ministry, and is teaching the children that Voldemort does not exist. Anyone who disobeys her is punished. Harry, Ron, Hermione, and 20 others form a secret organization for practicing defense. In the end, they need the knowledge to fight the Death Eaters for a prophecy that could change everything. If I could rewrite one part of the story, it would be that Sirius dies


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


The dangerous criminal Sirius Black is on the loose! Harry, Ron, and Hermione are beginning their third year at Hogwarts with a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher: Professor Lupin, a werewolf. In this story, Harry discovers secrets and truths about his father. In the end, they find a traitor in their midst, and realize that Sirius might not be so evil... I would most want to be friends with Hermione, because she's Hermione. I would least want to be friends with Wormtail, because he betrayed Harry's parents.


-Julie, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


The Penderwicks are a fun family of five. They go on vacation to a summer home, and the girls meet Jeffrey, the son of the mean woman who lives in a mansion, and owns the summer house. Together Rosalind, the eldest, Skye, the soccer girl, Jane, the author, Batty, the little sister, and Jeffrey, the adventurous boy, have fun, go on adventures, and discover secrets. If someone liked this book, they should read the rest of the series.


-Phoebe, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Wonder , R.J palacio

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


I honestly don't think I would be friends with August. Not because he looks any different, but because I find him kinda annoying. I dunno. Maybe it just annoys me how much he says dude or something....
I think I could be friends with Miranda and via, if I was their age.


-Kali, 7th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

What Else is New?

I like um...nevermind

I'm just trying to record all the books I've read! (i'm a fast reader but slow writer).
-Avery, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea

Because of Mr. Terupt is about a group of students with varied personalities. They are starting 5th grade with a fun new teacher named Mr. Terupt. Mr. Terupt does exciting projects with them, and creates special bonds.

At first I didn't like that there were so many narrators but now I love having the knowledge of multiple characters.

Because of Mr. Terupt is a great book and I highly recommend it.



-Avery, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

THIS IS IT! WEEK 10!

You have until Friday, August 26 to submit your posts! If you just have one or two books left to finish the series you've been gobbling up all summer, find a cool spot and go for it! If you had a book you were supposed to read for school and you've been putting it off, now's the time. (You might even like it!)

And hey, it’s looking pretty close between the sixth and seventh graders for the trophy. Gather your friends, have a reading and posting marathon! Eighth graders—you need to have a BIG reading and posting party, but you can still surprise us all!

If you want to read for this week's challenge, your parents were around your age probably in the 1980s or 1990s. You don’t have a lot of time for this last challenge, so here are a few books you should be able to get through pretty quickly. They’re all under 200 pages. Some are totally fun and easy; others are more thoughtful.

The Babysitters Club books by Ann Martin got started in 1986
The Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine started 1992
The Choose Your Own Adventure series by various authors started in 1979
Hoops by Walter Dean Myers (1981)
War Horse by Michael Morpugo (1982)
Bright Shadow by Avi (1985)
The Castle in the Attic by Elizabeth Winthrop (1985)
A Rat’s Tale by Tor Seidler (1986)
So Far from the Bamboo Grove by Yoko Kawashima Watkin (1986)
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry (1989)
Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli 1990)
Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor (1991)
The Midwife’s Apprentice by Karen Cushman (1995)

Enjoy the last weeks of summer!

-Amanda, Central Square Branch

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


In this sequel to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, the chamber of secrets has reopened again! Dan dan dan! Harry's best friend (Ron's) little sister Ginny has discovered Tom Riddle, aka Lord Voldemort's, diary. She spills out all her secrets to him until she is powerless. She desperately tries to flush it down the toilet, but it will not do. Harry finds the diary, and eventually discovers the Chamber of Secrets, where he must: save Ginny, escape from Voldemort, and destroy the diary. Only- how? The character in this book that I would most want to be friends with is Hermione, because she is a super cool genius, and Harry would be dead without her. The character in this book that I would least want to be friends with is easy: Tom Riddle/Lord Voldemort, because he is evil and creepy and has no nose.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

Which minor character in this book would you like to know more about? If there were a whole book about them, what would it be called?


Harry Potter is an "ordinary" boy who is not that ordinary after all. After his parent's tragic death caused by the evil wizard Voldemort, and Harry's narrow escape, Harry is left at his cruel, utterly ordinary Aunt and Uncle's house by Professor Dumbledore, head of Hogwart's School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, in hope of giving hime a safer life. All of the sudden, on Harry's birthday, he is introduced to Hogwarts and told what REALLY happened to his mother and father (not a car crash, what his uncle and aunt made hime believe, after all. Harry must face off against Voldemort with his two new friends, and Voldemort wants two things; the Sorcerer's Stone, but most of all: to see Harry dead. The minor character in this book that I would like to know more about is Nearly Headless Nick. If there were a book about him, it would be called Headless.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


The Midwife's Apprentice is an oldfashiony tale of a girl who becomes Jane the Midwife's apprentice (her name is Alyce). When Alyce is called to help Emma birth her baby and fails, she leaves the village and becomes an inn girl. At the end she is reunited with Jane. The character I would most want to be friends with is Purr, the cat, because cats are awesome! The character I least want to be friends with is the miller's wife, because she has an awful temper


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Tracing Stars by Erin E. Moulton

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


Tracing Stars is a wonderful story about a girl named Indie Lee Chickory who likes to make fish faces. When Indie accidentally brings her lobster, The Lobster Monty Cola, to school, her sister who used to be her best friend, but is not anymore because she is trying to be perfect, turns away from her, and Indie is left alone. Bebe (her sister) is one of the von Trapps in The Sound of Music in a play, and she decides to work backstage on the sceneries. Indie meets Owen, another kid working backstage, and together they search for The Lobster Monty Cola. But disaster strikes when Bebe and her new friend, Kelsey, find out about her friendship with Owen (who they think is weird), and Indie needs to comfort him. If you like this book, you should read Jasmine and Maddie


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Number the stars by: lois lowry

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?


I would change the ending of Number the stars so that Annemarie sees Ellen and gives her the necklace and the book ends with the two staring at a sunset thinking of all the hardships they faced in those years of the war. I mean they are the main characters and I don't think readers are supposed to think Ellen died or something. but over all this was a great book.


-Mariela, 6th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

What Else is New?

I haven't gone back to school shopping yet


-Mariela, 6th Grade, CSUS

has anyone seen jessica jenkins by: liz kessler

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


if you like reading about super natural stuff you should read other books by Liz Kessler like a year without Autumn or the Emily Windsnap series. this book is about a girl who suddenly discovers that her arm disappeared in the middle of a geography lesson while she was sleeping from there she embarks on a journey to discover where she got her power from and along the way meets many others like her and they all team up to keep the serum that gave them their powers out of the hands of a evil millionaire who wants to sell the serum so all the world may have super powers. find out how it ends, by reading the book.


I wish that I could turn invisble like Jessica.


-Mariela, 6th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

What Else is New?

I want a cookie.


Mariela, 6th Grade, CSUS

Amulet series by: kazu kibuishi

If this book were a food/color/song/smell, what would it be and why?


this book would smell like something different to everyone. something you love having but you know you shouldn't have. For me it's double Chocolate chip cookies.


-Mariela, 6th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Gone Crazy in Alabama by: Rita Williams - Garcia

If this book were a food/color/song/smell, what would it be and why?


if this book was a food, it would be a Louisiana style dinner of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob with gravy. and it would smell delicious.


-Mariela, 6th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

A year without Autumn by: Liz Kessler

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


this book is amazing. my favorite character is Jenni. her life changes when she takes an old elevator that transports herself back in time. she pushes a button and she changes her life forever. as she tries to save her best friend's little brother, relight a old love and fix her friend's life. she pulls it together in the end and saves the day.


-Mariela, 6th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Above World by: Jenn Reese

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


Above World is a great book. My favorite character is Aluna, she is adventurous and I probably would be friends with her. I'm not like Hoku, her little follower. I want to be like her, she goes against the current. aluna is the best character. but I love Callie, the flying aviar from skytrek. the book is sometimes confusing but very entertaining with many fighting scenes.


-Mariela, 6th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

James and the giant peach by Roald Dahl

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


James, an orphan whose parents were killed in a rhinoceros accident, lives with his two cruel Aunts. One day he meets a mysterious man who gives him a potion that can turn his luck around. But when James drops it, the potion seeps into the roots of a fruitless peach tree. Soon, a giant peach begins to grow, the size of a small house. His greedy Aunts keep him locked up while they charge people to see the peach. But maybe the peach is his way out. This story of a boy who travels the world (and space) with giant insects, is full of adventure, comedy, and fun. If you liked this book, you should read other Roald Dahl books, such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Fantastic Mr. Fox.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Bart Simpson: Class Clown- Various Writers

As those of you who watch the "Simpsons," you know Bart is known for pulling pranks, name calling, and getting in trouble. Well all that right here in this comic book! In this comic book, there is more than just one story. There is a story at the end where Bart is a superhero, and everyone is ten years old (Because of a super villain).


-Emie, 7th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Tales from the Crypt: Diary of a Stinky Dead Kid- Various Authors

This book in the beginning, has three witches who read people's diaries, well, maybe not "people's,"
The "Crypt-Keeper," The "Old Witch," and The "Vault-Keeper." But, they read corps', a girl un-attracted to a vampire(Pretty ironic), a werewolf, who doesn't want to be one, and wasn't born one. He doesn't know how it happened, but he wants an antidote. The Cure.




-Emie, 7th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

What Else is New?

Going to school in about two weeks. Ugh.
-Ernie, 7th Grade, CSUS

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

If this book were a food/color/song/smell, what would it be and why?
Willie Wonka's chocolate factory is the most famous in the world. However, 10 years ago, it stopped allowing people to go in. Then, all of a sudden, Mr. Wonka announces that five people will be chosen to tour the chocolate factory, and will receive an unlimited supply of chocolate. How does he choose these people? In five candy bars in the world there is a golden ticket inclosed. The lucky finder of a golden ticket will be one of the five. Charlie is a poor boy who lives with his loving family. He only gets one candy bar a year, on his birthday. Naturally, he doesn't find a golden ticket. But when he finds some money on the street, he never could guess how far $1.00 could take him.... If this book were a smell, it would be... wait for it... CHOCOLATE!


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The last of the really great wangdoodles by Julie Andrews Edwards

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


This incredible book is the story of three kids and a professor, and their miraculous journey to Wangdoodle Land, a place of magic and surprises. But the Wangdoodle doesn't like to be seen, and he sends his assistant, the Prock, to try to stop them in every way imaginable. Will the Professor be able to fulfill his lifelong dream of seeing the Wangdoodle? Or will his hopes be crushed (along with his ribs). This is a funny, creative, imaginative book. If someone liked it, they should read Mandy, a slightly different, but equally good book, also by Julie Andrews.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Big Nate: Welcome to my world by Lincoln Pierce

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


Big Nate: Welcome to my world is another great comic book by Lincoln Pierce. It starts with Nate showing his grandparents his school. I would least want to be friends with Gina, a snob. I would most want to be friends with Francis, an intelligent kid.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

What Else is New?

Summer is coming to an end *cries*
-Eighth Grade

Animal Farm By George Orwell

An allegory about animals on a farm. This story explains the Russian War. With animals portraying the people.
-Eighth Grade

The Umbrella Man by Roald Dahl

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?


The Umbrella Man is a collection of short stories by the famous author, Roald Dahl. These stories are full of laughter, secrets, and surprises. My favorite is The Umbrella Man, a story of a man who uses umbrellas and lies to buy treats. If I could ask Roald Dahl one question, it would be: "Do you prefer writing funny stories, or serious ones?"


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Cases of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


Dr. Watson, the assistant of the great detective, Sherlock Holmes, is the narrator of these delightful mysteries. These old classics are told in a way that makes you want to read them over and over. From stories like the Red-Headed league, to the Speckled Band, Sherlock cracks them all. It is thrilling to discover the answers to these mysteries. If you liked this book, you could read other old mysteries like the Hardy Boys, and Nancy Drew.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Last of the really great Wangdoodles by Julie Andrews Edwards

What books would you recommend to the main character of the book and why?


Three kids meet a famous professor with a secret. After an encounter on Halloween, the three begin training at his house. For what? Entering Wangdoodle Land, a place where magic and mythical creatures thrive. There's only one problem: the shy Wangdoodle doesn't like guests, and his assistant, the oily Prock, will do anything to stop them. I would recommend Roald Dahl books to the professor, also a wacky guy.


Julie Andrews Edwards is also a famous actress.


-Phoebe, Grade 6, Cambridge Friends School

The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


Agatha and Sophie are readers from the village of Gavaldon. Every four years, two children, one good, one evil, get whisked away from their homes to the magic school for G&F, where they are in classes with kids born into fairy tale kingdoms. It is no surprise when Sophie, the pretty, kind girl, and Agatha, the brooding, goth, graveyard girl, are chosen. But when Sophie is put into evil, and Agatha into good, their lives change completely. I would most want to be friends with Agatha, a kind, smart, practical girl, because she understands love and kindness in her own way. I would least want to be friends with Sophie, though she tries to be good, because she is vain.


-Phoebe, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Gaby, lost and found, by Angela Cervantes

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


Gaby is a poor child whose mother, an animal lover, was deported. She lives with her dad. When her class volunteers to help at an animal shelter, and Gaby meets Feather, a neglected cat with cruel owners, her life changes forever. This heartwarming story will glue your eyes to the page. If someone liked this book, they should read Ally, First at Last, also by Angela Cervantes


-Phoebe, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?


In this sequel to Harry Potter and the sorcerer's stone, Harry, Ron, and Hermione try to solve the problem that people are being Petrified at Hogwarts. The legend says that a monster from the Chamber of Secrets, a mythical chamber built by Salazar Slytherin, a head of house at Hogwarts, is attacking the people. But the suspect might not be who you would think.... If I could ask J.K. Rowling one question, it would be "what inspired you to write Harry Potter?"


There is now an eighth Harry Potter!


-Phoebe, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School



Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


Harry Potter is the famous story of a boy who finds that he is a wizard and goes to the wizarding school, Hogwarts. He meets Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, and together they go on adventures to stop Voldemort, the evil wizard who killed Harry's parents. If you liked this book, you should read the Eva Ibbotson books, also great fantasies.


HP is a series


-Phoebe, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Cloud Castle - Thea Stilton

In the book The Cloud Castle (author unknown) Thea, the Thea sisters ,and Will go to the clouds to figure out how and why there was trouble in the cloud city. What do you thin happed in the cloud castle? Read the book and find out!

-Betel, 6th Grade, Prospect Hill Academy

The Mysterious Benedict Society and The Perilous Journey by Trenton Lee Stewart

In The Perilous Journey, an international scavenger hunt made by Mr. Benedict himself takes the kids on an adventure where Reynie meets the Old Hag, Constance makes some more irritating poems, Kate gets a pet bird called Her Majesty, and Sticky finally shows his tough side.
The four kids have gone on the hunt to find the last whereabouts of Mr. Benedict, who was been captured by his brother, Mr. Curtain.
Mr. Curtain is also extremely overconfident, in my opinion.


-Bruce, 6th Grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Blackbird Fly by Erin Entrada Kelly

Which minor character in this book would you like to know more about? If there were a whole book about them, what would it be called?


This was a phenomenal story like no other about a girl (Apple) who has slanted eyes, has a "weird" Filipino nickname, and an embarrassing mother who doesn't completely understand her. Apple is voted third- ugliest girl in her whole school, and her life becomes a horror show. Boys bark at her in the hallways, and her best friend isn't so friendly anymore. When Apple steals $20 from the music teacher Mr. Z in hope of getting a guitar, and then is caught when she is actually trying to put it back, she is suspended from her school for the rest of the day, and her already- bad day gets worst. But two new friends- Heleena and Evan (and kind of Mr. Z)- help her realize that perhaps it is better to stand out then to blend in. This is a story about a girl, her new friends, and the guitar that changed her life. The minor character that I would want to know more about is Heleena- does she have a wonderful singing career when she grows up? If there were a whole book about her, it would be called "Look Down."


-Julie, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Jasmine and Maddie by Christine Pakkala

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


Jasmine and Maddie is the story of two girls- Jasmine, a new girl who is embarrassed about where she lives, and Maddie, a rich girl, who feels friendless and that she is the only imperfect person in her family. At first their friendship gets off to a bad start, and just as they are starting to become friends, Jasmine suggests trading rings for a bit. (Maddie gives her her sister's ring.) Jasmine hopes to sell Maddie's ring at a jewelry shop, but the lady, untrusting Jasmine, keeps the ring for a while instead. Maddie's sister Lexi finally realizes that she lost her ring- Maddie must confront Jasmine, but how? (Don't worry- it ends happily!) If you like this book, you should read We are all Made of Molecules, because both books switch from two character's perspectives and are both good!


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

What would you want to see happen to the characters after this book (or the last of the series) ends?
Walk Two Moons was a very intricate and beautiful book. The main character, Sal, is going on a road trip with her grandparents and is telling them Phoebe's (her best friend) story. It switches from past to present throughout, and is defiantly a page turner. I would have liked to know more about Phoebe and Sal as they got older.
-7th Grade

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
This book was amazing! I have to say, I think it is now one of my absolute favorites! There are a bunch of 80s references throughout the book, most of which I find hilarious and quirky. The book takes place in 2045, where there is a virtual reality computer game OASIS, which you can attend school through, play game, chat with people and hang out with friends. But then the creator of the game dies, and starts a contest/scavenger hunt through OASIS to find three keys to unlock three doors to find an egg. Who ever finds the egg, will inherit all of his money. I would recommend this to anyone who likes sci-fi and adventure books, and who knows a bit about the 80s, because the who contest is has to do with the 80s.


-7th Grade

Seven Stories Up by Laurel Snyder

Which minor character in this book would you like to know more about? If there were a whole book about them, what would it be called?


This is a creative story about a girl who has never met her grandmother before. She (Annie, the girl) and her mother race over to Hotel Calvert in hope of seeing the cranky old lady before she dies. That night, Annie is taken back in time 50 years, to the year 1937, and gets the opportunity to meet her grandma in a whole new way. The minor character in this book that I would like to know more about is Molly's cat; what happened to him later on? If there were a book about him, it would be called Meow.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Gaby, Lost and Found by Angela Cervantes

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


This is a delightful story about a girl who volunteers at a local animal shelter and falls in love with one of the cats there. Her mother was deported to Honduras and Gaby is stuck with her father who pretty much ignores her. Bad news from Honduras may ruin Gaby's dream of her family. If you like this book, you should read Abby, First at Last, also by Angela Cervantes.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Water Horse by Dick King-Smith

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?


Angus discovers an egg, and when the egg hatches he finds a dragon, Crusoe. He tries to hide the beloved dragon from his mother, but as Crusoe grows and grows it just gets more difficult. I would recommend this book for first graders to eighth graders.


-Julia, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

We are all made of molecules by Susin Nielsen

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


Oh man! This is one of the best books that I've ever read!!! We are all made of molecules is a story about a girl named Ashley and a boy named Stewart who have to move in together. (Stewart's mother died, and Ashley's mom, Caroline, and Ashley's dad, Phil, divorced, and Caroline and Stewart's dad Leonard start dating. Leonard, Stewart, and their cat move into Caroline and Ashley's house.) Stewart has always wanted a sister, so he is trying to be positive, even though Ashley is snobby and calls him a freak. However, Ashley just can't except it. The only thing that they have in common is that they are both made of molecules, hence the title! This is an amazing story that alternates between the perspective of Stewart and Ashley's perspective. My favorite character is either Phoebe or Stewart- they are both so nice, even though Ashley is a jerk to both of them! My least favorite character is Jared or Ashley. Ashley is a total snob, but Jared is way worse (they had been a couple, but then something happened). Read this book to find out!


-Julie, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician's Nephew by C S Lewis

This is a prequel to the other books in the series, sort of like a REALLY long prologue.
It's about a girl and a boy who are tricked into leaving their dimension.
They find an evil witch who lives in a very old world, and a nice lion who lives in a world that was just created. I like how the author describes the age of each world by telling you about the appearance of it's sun.

What I didn't like was how sexist the characters were.

My favorite part of the book is when the characters grew a toffee tree.

My favorite character is the horse.

I suggest the series.

:)

-Avery, 6th Grade, Cambridge Friends School

Welcome to week 9!

Hi Readers!


We're coming into the home stretch, we've reached week 9. It's time to start dreaming about ice cream parties and us,reading trophies.  Don't forget to put the grade that you will be in September, right now the 6th graders are in the lead but that could change any minute!

This week's challenge is to read a book written by someone born before the 20th century.

My favorite books by someone born before the 20th century are the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis (1898-1963). The most famous book from the series is The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, which is the book when Lucy Pevensie and her older siblings first go to the land of Narnia to meet Aslan, a talking lion, and get caught up in the battle to save Narnia from the evil White Witch. When I was little, my parents read me these books and I loved them so much that I still reread at least some of the series every year and am now reading them out loud to my own kids.

If you like books like Harry Potter, Gregor the Overlander or the Hobbit, I highly recommend you give the Narnia books a try.

Happy reading!

Liz, O'Connell Branch

Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


Laura lives in the deep woods in the late 1870s with her family. They live in a little house made of logs. This charming tale shows the many adventures and exciting things that go on in this little family, along with how people found food and survived. It is incredible. period. If you liked this book, you should read the other Little House books.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Little Woman by Louisa May Alcott

Little Woman is an amazing book based on a true story. Four sisters- Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy all live with there mother "Marmee" in a house in New England. They are not poor but also not particularly rich. It is a lovely story about there family. In the absence of her husband who is fighting in the Civil War, Marmee must take care of her three girls with three different personalities; Meg, the eldest, is very polite and proper, Jo, the second eldest, is ambitious and headstrong (based on Louisa herself), Beth, the second youngest, is kind but sickly, and Amy, the youngest, is a carefree pretty little girl who grows up to be a posh lady. This story tells of their growing up, and the happenings when the girls meet their new neighbor, Laurie. This is a warm story that you will adore. My favorite character is Beth, because she is kind and hardly ever argues. My least favorite character is the editor who did not publish Jo's book.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Rodzina by Karen Cushman

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


This is an amazing, well-written story about a girl who is an orphan who really does not want to be taken by anyone because she feels like all the people are looking for is someone who can work. It is a funny, adventurous story about a girl who just wants to go home. If you like this book, you should read The War That Saved My Life or Hush.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Staples

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?


Shabanu is a strong-willed girl who lives in the Cholistan Desert of Pakistan. She has been allowed freedoms that most Muslim girls have not. Her older sister is going to get married, but when an encounter with a rich landowner destroys her sister's marriage, Shabanu has to change the plans of her life, too. This means giving up her spouse, and marrying a wealthy man with many wives. Will Shabanu listen to her heart, or uphold her family's honor? This amazing book shows what it is like being a Muslim girl growing up in Pakistan. It. Is. Incredible. If I could ask the author one question, it would be if she ever went to Pakistan, and if not, how she knew the lifestyle there.


Shabanu, Daughter of the Wind, has a sequel: Haveli, about Shabanu's daughter.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks

If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?

The Indian in the Cupboard is a highly creative story about a boy named Omri, who is given a cupboard for his birthday, as well as a plastic Indian toy. He finds that the cupboard can make all plastic things come alive. This tale has adventure and risk. Omri tries not to let anyone see his demanding little Indian, Little Bear. If I could rewrite one part of this book, it would be that someone does see Little Bear. I would not have that happen.

- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Deenie by Judy Blume

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?

Deenie is a beautiful girl, whose mother is hoping will become a model. All of a sudden, she is diagnosed with scoliosis. Her life changes completely. Her mom is depressed, her dreams of Deenie becoming a model, crushed. Deenie herself finds many changes in the way people look at her. This book shows the struggle of being different. If you liked this book, you should read Are you there God? It's me, Margaret, also by Judy. Both these books deal with growing up.

- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Mandy by Julie Andrews Edwards

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

Mandy is the story of a girl who lives in an orphanage. She is very curious about what lies behind the huge stone wall in the garden. One day, she climbs it, and finds an abandoned cottage by the woods. The story shows how she secretly transforms the cottage into her own home. I would ask Julie Andrews Edwards what inspired her to write this story.

Julie Andrews Edwards is also a famous actress

- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?

Where the mountain meets the moon is the story of a girl named Minli who grows up in the village of Fruitless Mountain. Her family is very poor. Minli's mom is very upset with their fortune, and complains all the time. Minli, upset by this, runs away in the middle of the night on a quest to restore fortune to the village of Fruitless Mountain. This book contains friendship and understanding, and shows you the true meaning of wealth. If you liked this book, you should read Starry River of the Sky, also by Grace Lin.

This book has many stories within it.

- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Princess Academy by Shannon Hale

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?

Princess Academy is the tale of a poor mining village called Mount Eskel, a town scorned by richer kingdoms. All of a sudden, it is declared that Mount Eskel is the place a princess will be chosen from. Thus begins the story of the Princess Academy, where the village girls learn how to act and behave like princesses. This book is full of laughter and spirit, and it shows how knowledge can make a difference. The character I would want to be friends with is Miri, the main character, because she is full of determination and wit. The character I would least want to be friends with is Liana, because she is full of herself, and flirts with Peter, Miri's friend/crush.

This book is the first in a series of three.

- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Borrowers by Mary Norton

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?

The Borrowers is the story of the tiny people who live under Kate's kitchen floor. Whenever they need something, they "borrow" it. There are three of them, Pod, the dad, Homily, the mom, and Arrietty, the daughter. Only Pod is allowed into the place where the "human beans" live. But Arrietty is desperate for a human companion. Her curiosity brings her family on many dangerous adventures. This book is filled with excitement, adventure, and the risk of being seen. I would definitely recommend to all ages, because it is a book you will not want to put down!

The Borrowers is also a movie: The Secret World of Arrietty.

- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Year of the Rat by Grace Lin

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?

The year of the rat is the year where you get a fresh start, and changes happen. Grace is a Taiwanese-American girl. In this sequel to the year of the dog, Grace/Pacy must deal with her best friend moving away, her cousin getting married, and deciding if being an author/illustrator is really the best job for her. If I could ask Grace Lin one question, it would be if this book is based on her life.

This book is the sequel to The Year Of The Dog.

- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Hush (an Irish Princess' Tale) by Donna Jo Napoli

What would you want to see happen to the characters after this book (or the last of the series) ends?

Hush is the story of an Irish princess who is sent away, and captured on a slave ship. Her sister escapes, but she cannot, and is treated terribly. Her one weapon is silence. After this book is over, I would want to see Melkorka reunited with her sister. This book has some sexual parts.

- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

What Else is New?

I read my first book on my Nook, I am in Israel, and tomorrow is my birthday!


- Shira, 8th grade, Vassal Lane

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

This book is really good. Its told from the point of view of a "Simon Snow" obsessed twin who is separated from her twin sister when starting collage. The book is funny, clever, and written very well. if you liked this book I would suggest that you read "Carry On" which is the fanfiction that Cath writes, and "Eleanor and Park", a book by the same author.


- Shira, 8th grade, Vassal Lane

United As One by Pittacus Lore

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?


This book is awesome. Its the last book in the I Am Number Four series. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy reading fantasy and adventure and action books.


- Shira, 8th grade, Vassal Lane

The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin

This is an incredible book about a girl who got into a fight with her her best friend, but before she could apologize it was too late. It is a very moving story like no other. I definitely recommend this book!


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Secret of Platform Thirteen by Eva Ibbotson

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


This is an awesome story about a spoiled missing prince from a magical land, and the long quest to find him. This has very interesting plot twists. If you like this book you should read Which Witch also by Eva Ibbotson; she is a very talented author.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Who Is Stan Lee? by Geoff Edgers

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?


This book is a biography about Stan Lee, the famous comic book writer. I learned so much about his life! This book made me want to read more comics. If I could ask the author of this book one question, it would be if he grew up reading Stan Lee's comics.


The author of this book is a family friend.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes

What would you want to see happen to the characters after this book (or the last of the series) ends?


This was a lovely story about a girl (Wanda) who was teased. After she left the school, her talent was discovered by two girls who had previously teased her, and they regretted it. After this book, I would want the two girls to be able to apologize to Wanda.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Are you there God? It's me, Margaret by Judy Blume

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


The challenges of growing up are shown in this book. Margaret just moved from New York City to the suburbs. Her neighbor Nancy forms a group of girls, including Margaret. She's worried that she'll be the last one to grow up. When there's things she would rather not discuss with her friends, she confides in God. The character in this story that I would most want to be friends with is- drumroll please- Margaret. Why? Because she is trusting and truthful. The character I would least want to be friends with is Nancy because she lies to her friends to be "cool".


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


Mr. Lemoncello is a wonky game inventor. For twelve years he has been designing a library. Twelve kids are given the privilege of spending the night in the library. In the morning they are given the option to leave or face the challenge of finding an alternate exit using clues. The people who succeed will be awarded with a huge prize. The person I would most want to be friends with is Sierra, because she has as much love for books as I do. I would least want to be friends with Charles, a clever bully who "never loses".


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Fun Home by Alison Bechdel

What books would you recommend to the main character of the book and why?


Fun Home is an autobiography about growing up in a funeral home. Alison's dad is very depressed, but he is also a literary companion. This book is also about discovery of one's self, as Alison realizes that she is a lesbian. I would recommend Honor Girl to Alison because it is also about a lesbian finding herself.


Fun Home is also a broadway musical.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

If this book were a food/color/song/smell, what would it be and why?


Ella is a girl who is cursed with the "gift" of obedience. Ella's mom dies, and she is sent to a boarding school along with her two wicked "stepsisters". She runs away. Ella has a relationship with Prince Charmonte, but is worried that if she marries Char, the kingdom will collapse because she could do anything she was ordered to do (like kill Char). If this book was a color, it would be pink, because pink is bold and powerful, but also a little weak.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Which Witch by Eva Ibbotson

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?


Which Witch is now one of my favorite books. It is the story of a powerful wizard (Arriman) who needs an heir. He holds a competition between 7 witches to choose his wife. Belladona is a white witch. She is in the competition. She later finds out that her powers are gone. Will Arirrman still choose Belladonna out of love? I would certainly recommend this book. It is not particularly challenging to read, but it is a fascinating story for all ages.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


The Year of the Dog is the story of a Taiwanese- American girl. The year of the dog is supposed to bring new friends. Also, it is the year you are supposed to "find yourself". Grace/Pacy takes this opportunity to discover what she wants to be. She meets Melody, another Taiwanese-American girl, and they quickly become friends. Grace discovers her talent through a nationwide contest. She deals with friendship and disappointment. If you liked this book, you should read the sequel, The Year of the Rat.


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School

Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke

In Dragon Rider, 3 companions will find themselves flying to the Himalayas to find the Rim of Heaven, a magical place where dragons hide in a high valley. Firedrake the dragon must find the Rim of Heaven with the help of two rats, a professor, a spotted forest brownie (That's a furry cat like creature. Don't get these mixed up with chocolate brownies.), a small boy named Ben, 4 dwarves, a Twigleg, some monks, a four - armed brownie, and a moonstone.
Their quest is long, but Firedrake, Sorrel, and Ben will endure their many misadventures along the way. They find themselves getting into more trouble then anybody could've and going out of their way straight to the Rim of Heaven but going to some other places unimaginable...

I really hope that Funke makes a sequel for this. I am waiting, and so are the characters to see the Rim of Heaven, but no as they expected....


- Bruce, 6th grade, Cambridge Street

Alamo All Stars by Nathan Hale

In Alamo All Stars, it's not about sports. It's about the fight over Texas.
This kind of stuff is not usually loudly educated in textbooks, but the war over Texas did have a few "All Stars" who played a major role in the war over Texas.

Although, there is a guy in the book that hates Rattlesnakes.

Anyways, our All Stars embark on a journey to make Texas free from Mexico and become part of the United States, and because of crazy settlers who take all the land they can get.
Right now in Texas, it's a dog eat dog world until our All Stars crack and shoot and blow things up.
Literally.


- Bruce, 6th grade, Cambridge Street

Saving Crafter by Mark Cheverton

If someone liked this book, what other books should they read?


If someone liked this book, they would want to read a LOT of the other books that Mark Cheverton has made. They can be found in a link provided at the bottom of the page.
This book is also Fantasy, so they might like other fantastical book authors like Cornelia Funke, C.S. Lewis, J.K. Rowling, and J.R.R. Tolkien, to name a few.
They might even like Sci fi books.

Link: http://markcheverton.com/


- Bruce, 6th grade, Cambridge Street

Still Life by Jacqueline West

What would you want to see happen to the characters after this book (or the last of the series) ends?


This book is the fifth, and last of it's series.
I would like to see how the "normal" for them would be, and how they would proceed... well... living, without having to fight some evil spirit/demon/painter/wizard or whatever, every frick'in five pages! Just,............. JEEZ!


- Emie, 7th grade, Cambridge Street

Level Up by Gene Luen Yang

I like this book.
The language is very suburban, and it'll make a 6th/7th grader laugh.
This graphic novel is weird. And yes, i just said graphic novel.
In the beginning, Dennis is has his life set down for him. Finish high school. Go to college (Medical). And, become a gastroenterologist. Then things got WEIRD. He met three angels... right out of a greeting card. Oh, and Dennis LOVES video games. Nice.


- Emie, 7th grade, Cambridge Street

Serendipity & Me by Judith L. Roth

If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?


I would like to ask Judith L. Roth when she started to realize she wanted to become an author and write books for to read and enjoy.


- Cherace, 6th grade, Putman Ave

The Swap by Megan Shull

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


The character in this book that would most likely be my friend, would be Ellie because I understand her and I think she would be really easy to talk to as a person and friend. The character the would least likely be my friends would have to be Jack because he's rough around the edges and I know people like that and I don't think he would be my friend.


- Cherace, 6th grade, Putnam Ave

Prom & Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg

If this book were a food/color/song/smell, what would it be and why?


If this book were a food it would be a lime. I think this book would be a lime because there are good moments and bad moments. Similar to a lime which is sweet and sour at different times.


- Cherace, 6th grade, Putnam Ave

Monstrous by MarcyKate Connolly

What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?


Monstrous was an incredible novel about a monster girl named Kymera whose brain was the same as a princess who was killed by a wizard. The wizard pretended to be Kymera's father. The character I would want to be friends of most is Batu because he is wise and friendly. Plus he's a dragon, and that's nice! The character I would least want to be friends with is the "father" of Kymera because he pretended to be good but he was actually a jerk.


What a great book!!!


- Julia, 6th grade, Cambridge Friends School