The Last Herald-Mage: Magic's Promise by Mercedes Lackey

I love this! I like how it takes place twelve years later, instead of at the same the first book. I can't wait to read the next book!

- Avery, 7th grade, Cambridge Friends School

What Else is New?

okay, so my sister and i made this up, but i find this real funny, so anyway...

knock knock
who's there?
butt
buttiboo

- Amy, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Peterson

*Spoilers included*

At first, Gilly, she was like so rude, I mean, really. She was really like a teenage girl who's just trying to act cool. Or, a overly annoyed teenage girl. She was also very dishonest too. She stole money-- $44, from Mr.Randolph, her neighbor, who's blind and half-deaf. But, in the end, she changed. Instead of being rude, dishonest, she began to miss Trotter and William Ernest. I have a family, I have a place to call home, I have friends, I have siblings(though they can be incredibly annoying,) I have someone who loves me. But Gilly doesn't. And I thought Gilly, she found her place-- finally, at Trotter's house, but all that ends when her grandma comes and get her away, to Virginia... I actually wish she would meet Trotter, William Earnest, and Mr.Randolph again.

- Amy, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Auggie and Me: Three Wonder Stories

These 3 people's lives intersect with Auggie's: Julian, Christopher, and Charlotte.
Julian bullies Auggie. But there's more to Julian than he lets on. Secretly, Julian is scared out of his mind of Auggie. So he bullies Auggie.
Christopher has been Auggie's friend since the beginning of time, but it's hard. Sometimes people will stare at Chris, like, "What deformity does he have?" It's hard to be Chris.
Charlotte is a very kind person, and not popular. But being caught up in the "Boy War" and the "Girl War" is just weird. Secret notes are passed around. Can Charlotte trust her new and old friends?

This is not a sequel to Wonder.

- Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Auggie, a boy with mandibulofacial dysostosis, lives a hard life. Most people don't understand these words and also what Treacher Collins syndrome and a cleft palate means. However, what they see is what they hate to see: Auggie's face.
It's proportions are worse than Voldemort, and August knows that. When he finally goes to school for fifth grade, it's a little bit happy, fun, and hard. He meets new friends, new enemies, and some people who go "Whuuuu...." when they see him.
With the help of others, Auggie learns to get through school without being bothered by bullies. It's a wonderful story of kindness.

- Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Essential Fantastic 4: Volume 1 by Stan Lee

The Fantastic 4 started as 4 people who were bombarded by the cosmic rays. The Invisible Girl, Human Torch, Mr. Fantastic, and The Thing team up to stop a bunch of power hungry mad men and aliens. The Invisible Girl is loved and loves two people, who are both her friend and her enemy. Human Torch wants to find his girlfriend, but every time he does something spoils it. The Thing is mad that Mr. Fantastic turned him into a thing, but also that his blind girlfriend likes him more as the Thing. Mr. Fantastic has done almost every impossible goal, but his most cherished goal cannot be completed: to win the heart of the girl he loves. These traits take them on wild adventures through the cosmos.

- Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Who Was Walt Disney by Whitney Stewart

Walter Elias Disney was the creator of Mickey Mouse and Walt Disney. Walter liked pulling his classmates' attention. After reading this book, I found out that Walter was once an ambulance driver during World War I. He also liked playing practical jokes on his friends. This book had told me a lot about this great person.

What else is new?
I'm also reading Who Was Isaac Newton which was one of the greatest geniuses of all time and Who is J.K. Rowling which is the creator of Harry Potter.

- Abdul, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Red's Planet by Eddie Pittman

An alien abducts a girl with orange hair in a police car. She gets caught in an intergalactic war involving mythical space pirates, abducted aliens, and haywire droids that own everything.
Red is upset that everyone calls her red. I mean, what is it with orange hair? Is it, like, universal to call someone "Red" when they have red hair? She doesn't even have RED HAIR!!! It's Orange!!! And blah blah blah blah blah blah blah....

- Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Star Wars The Clone Wars: Shipyards of Doom by Henry Gilroy, Ben Dewey, and Jeff Powell

The Separatists are making too many ships, and the war is tipping in their favor. Even more, only droids are allowed on the planet. A scanning system kills anything in the ships. How will they pass as not life forms?
R2's already covered. Also, they have a carbonite freezing system.
Hmmm....

- Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Star Wars The Clone Wars: Crash Course by Henry Gilroy, Shawn Fillbach, Ronda Pattison, Ramon Perez, and Matt Fillbach

A spy is leaking republic information, and every time a major podracing event happens, the info is leaked. Anakin, Obi Wan, and Ashoka compete in a podracing tournament. Ashoka develops a relationship with the lead podracer, but Anakin warns Ashoka that all will not end well.
Who is the mole?

- Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Lirael by Garth Nix

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

This book is the second book in the series. It starts of confusing on how it fits in but soon makes sense. Wonderful action following two parallel stories that entwine then completely flip. This is one of the best books I have ever read and was very satisfied by it.

- Joseph, 8th grade, Amigos School

Chi's Sweet Home Vol. 6 By Konami Kanata

This is a adorable graphic novel about a Japanese cat named Chi. She is really funny as she try's to do everything she finds even the least bit interesting, and this book is filled with great drawings and story's! I loved this book, it is amazing, so enjoy!!

- Emilia, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Ruby Redfort: Look Into my Eyes By Lauren Child

Ruby Redfort is a code breaking, problem solving, 13 year old girl. She is also a spy working for the Spectrum, the only kid there.
Ruby and her butler, Hitch, along with many ups and downs must decode, protect, and solve to save valuable items, a lost friend, and Rubys chance of staying at the Spectrum.

Also, there might be a LOT OF DANGER!!

- Emilia, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Dear Pen Pal by Heather Vogel Frederick

This is another book in the mother-daughter book club series, (I still dislike that name.) Now that the girls are in 8th grade, they have even more fights with friends and boys. Great read!

- Margaret, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Darkness of Dragons by Tui T. Sutherland

This is the 10th book in the the Wings of Fire Series! I can't wait for the next one, it's a great fantasy story with well-developed plots and CHARACTERS!

- 7th grade

Little Free Libraries - The Other Libraries in Cambridge

Hey us, readers!

Did you know that in addition to the CPL and our branches there are at least twelve more places in Cambridge where you can get free books?  Maybe your local library has closed for the day, or you just really want something to read that you don't have to bring back before summer's over.  Our city's Little Free Libraries have got you covered!

Here's the deal: 

Little Free Libraries are all over Cambridge (and all over the world!) and they are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year! You can find one near you by entering your zip code or city on this map.  Take any book you want from a Little Free Library, and if you love it, you can keep it forever.  If not, pass it on to a friend, return it to the same Little Free Library, or donate it to a different one.  You can also drop off any books from home that you don't want any more - Little Free Libraries love donations!  

-Librarian Jamie

Star Wars Legends Epic Collection: The Empire by John Ostrander, Randy Stradley, Haden Blackman, and Alexander Freed

Darth Vader has risen, and has a passion for hunting down the jedi. Some die in a fight. Others submit themselves to death willingly. Some do both. Some survive, going undercover.
People change their names to survive. Statues are blasted. Finally, Vader goes on a mission where he realizes he still has some light left in him.
The one thing the emperor does not know.

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Dark Empire 2 by Tom Veitch and John Whitman

The emperor has fallen - or has he?
Imperial executor Sedriss now commands the fearsome Galaxy Gun, a new weapon that threatens to end the rebel alliance once and for all. Luke races to find the last surviving Jedi in the galaxy, encountering Jedi trees, steam powered ships, and Boba Fett who survived the Sarlacc pit.
It's a wild ride as the emperor finally realizes that his end is coming.

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Dark Empire 1 by Tom Veitch

The Empire has risen again. 6 years after the destruction of the second Death Star, the rebels have captured 2 star destroyers. The new imperial World Devastators now devour the galaxy. Luke tries to fight, but ends up going to the dark side. He realizes that the emperor IS the dark side of the force.
Luke must fight before the darkness swallows both him and Leia, while the emperor races to find a new body to inhabit...

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Percy Jackson's Greek Gods by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson explains the faults of the gods, plus how they were created and some other bonuses. If you like cannibalism, madness, mass murders, blindness, babies in boxes, live handkerchiefs, and cupcakes with sprinkles, this is the book for you.
WARNING: Rick Riordan is not responsible for any reactions that may harm others made by this book. He warns you that it may be gruesome, and may contain ideas that should not be viewed until age 13. Contents under pressure. Do not rip or harm book. Otherwise, you may be incinerated. That is not Rick's fault. Happy Reading!!!

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Darth Paper Strikes Back by Tom Angleberger

This is the second book in the Origami Yoda series.
All is lost.
Dwight is going to be suspended. Harvey is trying to expel Dwight for good. That's at least what Tommy thinks with his case files. Mike is back to crying in class again. Zero Hour has come.
The only glimmer of hope is if they can get through to the school board... but Harvey has made an ANTI Dwight case file.
Is all lost forever?

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Ashes by Laurie Halse Anderson

This book is by far the best in the Chains Trilogy. It has romance, fighting, friendship, spying and pretty much everything you want in a book. With its heart pounding, laugh-out-loud, and happy/relieving moments, Laurie Halse Anderson has created a masterpiece with the book Ashes. Back from the point of view of Isabel, strong characters and real history come through and shine bright in this book. Please consider Chains, Forge and Ashes!

I'm so happy and sad at the same time. The Laurie Halse Anderson Trilogy is done for me!!! -Rue, 6th grade, Amigos School

What Else Is New?

I am reading The Fellowship of the Ring, it's amazing!!! -Amy, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Champ by Marcia Thornton Jones

I really don't think Riley's dad would hate Riley because he's horrible at sports. I think even you are a family, family-- your family doesn't always understand you, but you are still a part of the family. It's just life. you need to understand that. It's life. But, just remember, no matter what you do, your family still loves you

-Amy, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Knights of The Lunch Table: The Battling Bands by Frank Cammuso

The Knights of The Lunch Table is a book of series after Arthur King or his nick name, Artie moved to a new school. The Principal Ms. Dagger is evil and mean. There is also a group of bullies called The Horde. In the first and the second series they have beaten The Horde in a dodgeball and a robot fight. I totally like this book so much.

-Abdul, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Salem Hyde: Dinosaur Dilemma by Frank Cammuso

Salem Hyde is a kid who has magic powers but she's actually not really good at using her powers. But however, she is getting good at it with the help of her friend which is a cat named Whammy. Salem has also caused a lot of trouble at her school using her powers by accident. The accidents caused by Salem has also caused a little bit of suspicion at his teacher, Mr. Fink thinking that Salem is hiding something. This book is actually quiet interesting to me.

-Abdul, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Field Trip to Niagara Falls by Elisabetta Dami

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

The character in this book that I would like to be least friends with is Punk Rat which is just a little elementary school student. But the reason why I would like to be least friends with him is because he likes to bully other people. And another reason is because he is very rude to older people. So those are the reasons why I would like to be least friends with him.

-Abdul, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Gaijin: American Prisoner of War by Matt Faulkner

Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).

There is a part where Koji (The Japanese American kid) was bullied by his friends calling him "Jap" and pushing him. That part made me feel so sorry for Koji. And the part where he was sent to an "Assembly Center" or a "Prison Camp" even though he is half american. That part also made me feel sad for him.

-Abdul, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

The School For Good And Evil: A World Without Princes by Soman Chainani

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

I would half recommend this book, half not. I would recommend this book because its strong adventure kept me turning the pages to the end; it is a GREAT book. But if you are sensitive to sexist words (no offense) I would not recommend this book.

-Kiersten, 6th grade, Putnam Ave Upper School

Grimmtastic Girls: Cinderella Stays Late

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

The 1st book of Grimmtastic Girls is a great book. It has a whole lot of interesting mysteries. But one I am dying to find is why Rumpelstiltskin does not like any one to speak his name.

Kiersten, 6th grade, Putnam Ave Upper School

The Last Herald Mage; Magic's Pawn by Mercedes Lackey

So good- I love this book so much. I like how it takes place in it's own magical and creative world. I like the morals- but how they are there without showing too much in a cheesy way. The whole book felt like a puzzle where in the very beginning you have only a few pieces and none of them fit together so you are left trying to figure it out and then getting contradicted as more pieces are added all for the better.

-Avery, 7th grace, Cambridge Friends School

Project (Un)popular by Kristen Tracy

This book is AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Perry and her best friend Venice are in the yearbook club, they both are great photographers and they are very happy to be there. When Anya the headmaster of the yearbook does not allow any nerds in it, which makes Perry and Venice enraged. They believe that everybody deserves a chance in the yearbook, but would this new problem affect their friendship???????? I REALLY recommend this book

-Luna, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Warden's Daughter by Jerry Spinelli

If you could be or had to become one character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?

If I could be any character in the book I would DEFINETLY be Cammie. Daring, wild and also a tomboy , she learns a lot over one summer. She is like no other kid. She lost her mother at a very early age and she has never felt the love from one. When it suddenly all changes in the summer of 1925 when a trustee ( trusted person from prison.Did I mention her dad was the warden in the city jail) moves into her life. Cammie learned things the hard way.

-Luna, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Cathreine Called Birdy, Karen Cushman

Believe it or not, I really didn't like Catherine Called Birdy. It is an unrealistic and unsatisfying portrayal of medieval life. It centers around a 14-year old girl who is dissatisfied with her life on a medieval farm. She is free-spirited and wishes to be free from the tedium of being a gentle lady. This is a good premise, but it is not well executed. Instead of insightful observations about medieval life, the protagonist makes fart jokes and complains non-stop about the world in a way unrealistic of the period. The whole tone of the book does not sound like it was written by a girl in the middle ages, but by modern adult trying to sound like a 14 year old. In addition, the book's plot goes almost nowhere.
When I read the back of the book, it sounded like it would be great, and I thought the idea was great. However, the interior is so disappointing that I almost didn't finish it, in fact, I stopped it multiple times. I would like to see this book rewritten by this author or a different author, perhaps one who would try a little harder, but for now, I would not recommend this book other than to study and see what went wrong.

-Chris, 8th grade, CSCL

Lio Making Friends by Mark Tatulli

Lio is on a roll. He breeds monsters, squirrels, monster squirrels, and robots. When those don't work he goes to yard sales and buys a Frankenstein. His pet squid hates Squidward, and his pet cat tries to nail him with grenades and rocket launchers.
Lio also loves a girl who hates him. However, he seems not to know that.

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Cleopatra in Space: The Golden Lion by Mike Maihack

Cleopatra is in space, and is not allowed to go explore the Golden Lion, a source of immeasurable energy. Cleopatra goes to the planet by herself, and ends up teaming with Antony to find the Golden Lion and stop Octavian from destroying it or using it.
Double crosses are on the way.
And then Triple crosses.

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Big Bad Ironclad by Nathan Hale

It is the civil war, and Will Cushing has been fired from the military. The North's navy is too small, and the strongest fort in the North has been captured along with the Merrimack. The South races with the North to make a new type of ship: an IRONCLAD!!! Will the South rule the seas, or will "Peacemaker" Errickson's Moniter float?

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Terrors of the Forest by Mark Cheverton

Gameknight999 goes back into Minecraft with his father's digitizer because he sees someone kidnapping Weaver in the past. Now, Gameknight sees that Minecraft has changed a lot along with his friends. Can he make them see the truth, or will Entity303 kill them all in the Twilight Forest?

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Ash Mistry and the World of Darkness by Sarwat Chadda

Lord Savage has used the time spell to time travel and change the world. Ash's crush is back from the dead, but so is Mayar and Jat. Now an evil Parvati is after him too. Can Ash save the world from Lord Savage, or will Savage use drugs to enslave the world?

-Bruce, 7th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

What Else Is New?

If you don't know what the Fresh Ink Program at Porter Square Books is, let me tell you about it. When you sign up, you can pick out an ARC, (advanced reading copy) to take home for free. You read it and look for errors, and then write a review that you send to the bookstore. Then you get to pick another one out.
ARCs are books that aren't yet published, and that's why you help report spelling errors and the like. But they are still great stories!

-Margaret, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Wishtree by Katherine Applegate

Wishtree is a wonderful novel by Katherine Applegate, author of The One and Only Ivan. While short, a beautiful story is packed into these pages. A story of friendship, and of community. And one might be surprised to hear that it’s all told from the perspective of a tree. Red, the community wishtree, thinks he has seen everything. But when the clock reading his remaining time begins to tick, Red experiences the wonders of a community coming together like he never thought was possible. I highly recommend this book to nature-enthusiasts and others alike. 

I also read this book for free to review for the Fresh Ink Program at Porter Square Books. When it comes out, you should read it.

-Margaret, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Summer Of The Swans, by Betsy Byars

Summer Of The Swans is a great novel and, in a way, a great commentary on many young adult novels. It starts classically. The protagonist, Sara, is an unpopular, sad middle-school girl who is embarrassed about her appearance. She has a pretty and popular older sister, and lives with her aunt in The South. She feels incredibly unlucky and sorry for herself, and to be fair to her, she doesn't have the best life-her mother is dead and her father is gone, and her 10-year old brother Charlie is mentally challenged thanks to a sickness he contracted when he was 3. Many young-adult novels begin on a similar premise to this, but progress little through. However, Summer Of The Swans does. Sara loses Charlie in the middle of the night, and suddenly all her problems fall into perspective. Her unpopularity at school seems trivial, and she starts to lose her long held belief that looks are the most important thing. The book is moving at parts, and al so funny occasionally. The book is also a reminder that problems you think are bad can be cleared up when something truly bad happens.

-Chris, 8th grade, CSCL

The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner's Dilemma

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

The character in the book that I would most like to be friends with is Reynard Muldoon. I would like to be friends with Reynard because he seems to keep his cool in tough situations. For example, one time he was in a hot sticky room with a very grumpy girl and he managed to not lose control of his temper once. In addition, this same grumpy girl likes to make up this very unpleasing poetry, and Reynard tends to never snap at her. He also is very kind to the grumpy girl when she gets upset. All in all, in hard circumstances Reynard seems to have the ability to calm himself. He also seems to have great kindness and he can be able to care for others. Those qualities he has are some of the many qualities I would be looking for in a good friend.

-James, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

I Funny

 If you could be or had to become one character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?

I would be the main character cause he was really funny and fun and nice to be friends with.
Thats who i would be if i could be any character.

-Gabriel, 6th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Ivy and Bean take care of the babysitter

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

I would recommend the book Stolen Children By: Peg Kehret to Bean.. I would recommend this book to Bean because Amy, the main character in Stolen Children is adventurous after all she does get kidnapped while she's babysitting a three year old, there's no way to avoid it! Bean is also adventurous this is how I know:
"'Play?' said Bean. 'We haven't got time to play! This volcano's about to blow!'"
This shows that she's creative and uses her imagination, because she turned a pile of dirt into a volcano. Amy is also adventurous this is how I know:
"Amy's babysitting course taught her basic first aid, bedtime tips, and how to change a diaper, but it did not cover what to do if two thugs with a gun showed up. She had to figure that out by herself."
This shows that Amy went through a lot of dangerous and adventurous stuff clearly she had to figure things out on her own. Without a doubt Bean would love Stolen Children.

-6th grade

Space Cat by Ruthven Todd

The Space Cat is about a cat named Flyball who accidentally went into a cab. The cab took the him to a space station. The captain of the spaceship accidentally brought Flyball into the spaceship. Probably the reason was because he didn't notice that Flyball was in the spaceship. Later after that, the cat was adopted by the captain. The story isn't really interesting. Maybe because it was published in 1952, but however, I actually kind of liked this book.

-Abdul, 7th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

What Else Is New?

The back to school shopping list is soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo long!!☹️

-Emilia, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Esperanza Rising By Pam Muñoz Ryan

Esperanza: Hope 

Esperanza is a young girl in the 1930's, Mexico. Her dad has just died. Her mansion burned down by her evil uncles, Tio Luis and Tio Marco. Her widow mother unsure to accept the marriage proposal Tio Luis gave her. They could lose what little they have if she says no, but saying yes could mean Esperanza would suffer the worst kind person as a father. 
Then her world changes in a most disappointing way. Esperanza will have to find her name...

-Emilia, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

What Else Is New?

LLAMAS WILL RULE THE WORLD!! Also: Hi Cat, Hi Vida! Miss you guys!! -Emilia, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Goodbye Stranger By Rebecca Stead

This is a really great book all about growing up in a group of friends when you are kind of finding what you like to do. The book follows best friends Bridge, Tab, and Emily, who are all going through hard times in their set.
PLEASE RREEAADD THIS BOOOOOOK!!!!

-Emilia, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Stargirl By Jerry Spinelli

The Story:
Stargirl arrived at quiet Mica High and everyone was shocked at everything about her: dancing in the rain, decorating her desk every single class, playing the ukulele at lunch, and candy on their desks. Everyone was shocked. Then they loved her. Then they hated her just as much as a little kid might hate asparagus. And in the middle of this all, was Leo Borlock...

-Emilia, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

Mrs. Smiths Spy School for Girls Book 1

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

I would DEFINITELY recommend this book to anyone who liked the Spy School series by Stuart Gibbs, because this book has the same beginning (almost), both characters had no idea how to be a spy. Also, if you are addicted to spy books (me), this book is a spy book must read!!

The story:
Abby is a normal person, then BAM! Boarding school!! She later finds out that her boarding school is actually a cover for the Center, a spying thing place(?), and that her mom is their best spy that has gone without a trace. Then Abby gets pulled into this mess...

-Emilia, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School

"Twelve" by Lauren Myracle

"Twelve" is a good book that I can really relate to. It is about a girl named Winnie who is going through changes. For example, she starts a new school, a new camp, and she just turned twelve. On the plus side, she makes friends at her new school and also at the camp. I recommend this book to all 12-year-old girls!

-Sarah, 6th grade, Cambridge Street Upper School

Shooting Kabul, N.H. Senzai

Shooting Kabul is a beautiful story of a little sister lost, then found. The book follows Fadi, an 11 year old boy who flees Afghanistan with his family for San Fransisco to avoid the Taliban. They reach San Fransisco safely but lose Fadi's sister Miriam along the way. Fadi remains with a terrible sense of guilt, because he feels he was responsible for losing Miriam.
Fadi also struggles with his cultural identity, and how it differs from others at his new home. He lives in Fremont, which has a high Afghan population, but it is still very different from real Afghanistan. He tries to assimilate and learn American culture and food, but finds it doesn't fit him.
However, when a free trip to Kashmir is promised to the kid who can take the best photo for a photo contest, Fadi sees it as his opportunity to find Miriam and redeem himself. Amidst bigoted remarks from bullies at school, Fadi grapples with his identity, culture, and guilt.

-Chris, 8th grade, CSCL

Twenty Minutes In Manhattan

20 Minutes In Manhattan is a wonderful portrayal of, literally, a twenty minute walk to work in Manhattan. Author Michael Sortkin spends several chapters just describing and dissecting the surroundings, such as chapter 1 is titled "THE STEPS" and chapter 2 "THE SIDEWALK" and so on.
While this methodical description of mundane activities may sound boring and dry, it is in fact a very interesting book. Instead of just describing, step by step the walk, Sortkin uses the walk to reflect on urban life and appearance. The book is sprinkled with anecdotes and witty observations.
Sortkin also uses the book to talk about architecture. Cast Iron Buildings, low-rises, high-rises, and he never misses the details.
Overall, the book is a great read, particularly for if you like architecture and urbanism. The book is especially relevant if you live (or lived) in NYC, or any big city for that matter. I recommend this for 7th or 8th graders, because 6th graders might find it dull.

-Chris, 8th grade, CSCL

Much Ado About Anne by Heather Vogel Frederick

This is the second book in a series I'm reading. It is pretty good, but there are different things that I would change, though I am satisfied with the ending. I read it very quickly.

Note that in the Mother-Daughter Book Club series, the characters age by one year each book. So in this book they are in the seventh grade, aged 12-13.


- Margaret, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Mother-Daughter Book Club by Heather Vogel Frederick and Shireen Dodson

At first, when I read the title, I thought it would be boring, simple, and generally a dislikable book.
However, several chapters in I was hooked. I still don't love the choice of title, but the book was great. It follows a group of four pre-teen girls, each with very different personality traits. None of them originally like their parents' ideas, but they slowly learn to become friends.
-Megan is eager, almost desperate, to be popular.
-Cassidy is the jock, and is known for neglecting manners.
-Emma is very self-conscious, like about her hand-me-down clothes.
-And Jess, who is very shy and rarely talks to people other than Emma, lives on her family's historic farm.
My favorite character is Megan, because she is faced with many hard friendship decisions throughout the book, and she grows and changes a lot. Before I give any spoilers, you should read it yourself.


- Margaret, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Dragon With A Chocolate Heart by Stephanie Burgis

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


Loved this so much! Couldn't put it down. A great mixture of magic, dragons, and most importantly- chocolate! Some parts were very sad, while other's were filled with great morals. It was a very exciting read and I highly recommend it to fantasy readers.


- Avery, Grade 7, Cambridge Friends School

The Land of Stories book 2

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


I would recommend this book to anyone who likes stories about heroes. it is a new perspective on little kid fairy tales. it talks about the characters from almost every fairytale together living in one world. if you want to read this book I would reccomend reading the first book in the series "The Wishing Spell

- Grade 7

El Deafo by Cece Bell

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


I would like to be friends with the girl cece meet at girl scouts she seemed really nice its to bad that Laura would not let them be friends. I would not like to be friends with Laura because she just seems really bossy.


- Caroline, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling

If you could be or had to become one character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?


If I had to be one character in this book I would choose Ginny Weasley. I want to be her so i can live in the Burrow and go to Hogwarts. Ginny is in her second year at Hogwarts and she is 12 years old. Ginny's brothers are Ron, Fred, George, Percy, Charlie, and Bill. She has no sisters her parents names are Molly and Arthur Weasley.


- Caroline, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

Listen, Slowly THANHHA LAI

Listen, Slowly is an amazing book about culture and discovering ones roots. In this book, we follow Mai, a Laguna Beach girl with Vietnamese parents. Much to her annoyance, her parents make her go with her grandmother on a trip to Vietnam for obscure reasons. While at first she is constantly plotting ways to get herself airlifted home, after she is squeezed into life in her grandmothers village, where everyone is family, she begins to find connections, friends, culture... roots.


- Virginia, Grade 6, Amigos School

Wings of Fire The lost heir

If you could be or had to become one character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?


The character from this book that I would want to be most is Sunny she is a SandWing dragonet. She was always able to get out of clutches when they were in fighting class because she is so small. Nobody is ever mad at Sunny because she is so cute and lovable.


summer is great!!!


- Caroline, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

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

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


I would definitely recommend this book. It is so good and anybody who likes action and fantasy books will like this book. My favorite characters in this book are Ginny Weasley and Hermione Granger. I would give this book 5 out of 5 stars.


- Caroline, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

Archie Comics byJohn L. Goldwater and Bob Montana

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


I would least like to be friends with Veronica Lodge because she's really snobby self centered and only cares about her reputation. I would most want to be friends with Archie because he's really cool and nice. He's also really funny and knows how to make a bad situation into a good one.


-Grade 7

When You Reach Me By Rebecca Stead

This book is hard to explain.
If you have read it before, you might agree. There are almost no words to describe this book, because it is a mixture of genres: There is a sci-fi part to it, a kind of "growing up" theme, and much more that you can't quite put your finger on. The gist is a lachkey kid, Miranda, in the 1970's who has grown up with a friend who has now grown apart from her, and starts to receive strange notes predicting things that are yet to happen. The first one you know at the beginning of the book, does come true.

READ THIS BOOK IT'S GREAT!!


- Emilia, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

SHADOW by Micheal Morphugo

Shadow is an action packed book, telling us about how a lonely dog found her way to a boy during a disaster in Afgan. The boy Aman, was 14 years old when Shadow found her way to him. During the times of war, Shadow accompanies Aman and his mother find his way, untill her true identity as a British Navy Dog is revealed when they meet up with a sergeant ... This story is truly touching, and the love between boy and dog has deeply touched my heart. I love this book because it has just the right amount of action, and just the right amount of emotion.


- Michelle, Grade 6, Shady Hill School

I Funny

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


I would change that he doesn't get bullied or he doesn't choke a lot


- Gabriel, Grade 6, Cambridge Street Upper School

Rascal by Sterling North

Rascal, by Sterling North is a beautiful work of autobiographical non-fiction centered around a boy and his pet raccoon, Rascal. Rascal is a mischievous but kind raccoon who the author adopts. It follows the author through his childhood exploits with Rascal. Set at the turn of the century, the book is quite funny, but also can get rather sad. The book offers a nice view into the past, and also a view into rural Wisconsin, a culture that has all but disappeared today. The book is a must-read for any animal lover.


- Grade 8

George Washington Frontier Colonel by Sterling North

George Washington Frontier Colonel is great book! It is by Sterling North known for his book "Rascal". It tells the story of George Washington's exploits in the French and Indian war as Colonel, not as the general that we think of when someone says "George Washington". It is a fairly quick read only about 150 pages long. I strongly recommend it for people that are interested in him. I personally loved it.

- Gabe, Grade 6, Parts and Crafts

What Else Is New?

Summer Rocks!!


- Avery, Grade 7, Cambridge Friends School

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

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


Love this! It is so awesome how many references it has to the other books in the series. Truly amazing. If I could ask JK Rowling one question I would ask how she planned ahead so well.

- Avery, Grade 7, Cambridge Friends School

Yours Truly by Heather Vogel Frederick

Yours Truly is the sequel to the book Absolutely Truly, which I read last summer. Truly Lovejoy is finally adjusting to life in the ultra-tiny Pumpkin Falls, New Hampshire, and the last thing she expects is another mystery in this nothing-of-a-town. But during "maple madness," one of the town's strange annual obsessions, Truly finds a historical secret hidden right in her own room! The mystery in the book was partnered with regular 7th grade drama, keeping the plot from becoming boring. While parts of the book were predictable, it was overall a great read, better even than the first book!


- Margaret, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Witches of Benevento: Respect Your Ghosts by John Bemelmans Marciano

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


If I could ask the author of this book one question, I would ask who is actually living with a Janara (A witch who likes to do mischiefs at children) among the relatives? And one more question I have for the author is how did Isidora know about the Clopper (One of the witches)? Has Isidora already met the Clopper. So those are the questions that I have.


- Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Witches of Benevento: Beware The Clopper! by John Bemelmans Marciano

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


What I would like to see happen in this book or maybe in the last of the series is that they tell us who the Clopper (One of the witches) really is. Because in this book, Maria asked herself whether she was safe from the Clopper because the Clopper isn’t really mean or because she was wearing the ring Primo found in the fish’s belly.


- Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Witches of Benevento: The All-Powerfull Ring by John Bemelmans Marciano

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


I actually kind of disagree with what Primo did when he desperately wanted to prove that he is the bravest and the best by going on a bridge and tried to talk to the Manalonga (The scariest witch in Benevento). So if I could rewrite one part of the story, I would just change the part where Primo went on the bridge and tried to talk with the Manalonga and make him do something else.


- Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Witches of Benevento: Mischief Season by John Bemelmans Marciano

If you could be or had to become one character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?


If I could become one of the characters in this book, I would choose to be Emilio because he is very intelligent and full of knowledge. If his cousins are onto something, they will usually need Emilio’s intelligence and knowledge to complete their IDEAS…


- Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

Mermin: Making Waves by Joey Wieser

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


In this book, I really hate The Atlanteans which is actually not a character but it’s actually like a tribe or a nation of humans who went underwater in this book. I hate them because they always try to kidnap innocent people or-The Mermen people (Underwater people). And another reason why I hate the Atlanteans is because they suddenly broke into the Mermen’s territory. So those are the reasons why I hate The Atlanteans.


- Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

Star Wars Infinities: A New Hope Volume 1 by Chris Warner

This is what happens if Luke's proton torpedo detonates too soon. It's a bad day for everyone, as people are thought dead and Luke almost goes over to the dark side.
This book is also too short.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Squish: Pod vs. Pod by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm

Squish's friend, Pod, warns Squish that a time rift will happen. Squish doubts him. When Pod begins to act with 4 different personalities, Squish goes to find out what has happened.
This book is way too short.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Lio: There's a Monster in My Socks by Mark Tatulli

Lio is a dangerous kid. He loves protecting the animals by giving them war machines. He hates his cat, who demands food by blasting him with paintballs.
Lio's father is sleep deprived, and Lio schemes dozens of plans to get rid of him. Most of them don't get plugged in.
This is VERY VERY VERY FUNNY.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

One Dead Spy by Nathan Hale

This is historical fiction. The fiction starts when spy Nathan Hale says his last words. They're so good, he gets swallowed by a the big huge book of american history, and now sees the future or 'history' as he calls it.
Nathan Hale tells the story of how he was a horrible spy and what the revolutionary war was about. The British provost helps tell the story from the British side, too.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Star Wars Jedi Council: Acts of War by Randy Stradley

An alien species is stealing technology, and now Corosis shields. These shields turn off lightsabers on contact. When jedi go to keep the aliens under control, their bodies are returned mutilated. It's up to Mace Windu and his band of jedi to find out who's behind this and stop it at all costs.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

The Adventures of Ook and Gluk: Kung - Fu Cavemen from the Future by Dav Pilkey

Futuristic Earth is out of recourses, so Goppernopper Enterprises raids the past for supplies. They get into trouble when Ook and Gluk revolt and free slaves. The book is a NOT READ for everybody. It has funny humor, but has "Nudity, Humiliation, and NOT REAL SCIENCE FACTS" as Harold's teacher would say. I think this is bad literature. Tell that to Dav, and he says that it's just a book
I hope.


The Wrath of The Wicked Wedgie Woman was made by Dav too.




- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Captain Underpants and The Wrath of The Wicked Wedgie Woman

George and Harold are fed up with their teacher, so they hypnotize her. She does the opposite of what they tell her to do, and then super power juice falls onto her hair. Talk about women with evil hairdos!
Then she makes two robots and keeps George and Harold hostage, and defeats captain underpants. Their's a kickball going to Uranus. Whoops.
The book is REALLY REALLY BAD. It's too short, and has humor for kids. Don't read it.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Big Nate: Great Minds Think Alike by Lincoln Peirce

Nate really goes crazy. He throws a frisbee the wrong way too many times, gives out too many valentines, and gets in trouble every day for something he thinks is lame. Tardy is lame. He wants a quality detention, like the time he hits Mrs. Godfrey in the head with a diabolo. It's an ironic ride for Nate.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Babymouse Goes For The Gold by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm

Babymouse eats too much while reading, so her mother makes her sign up for a sport. Babymouse signs up for swimming, thinking it will be easy and fun.
She is wrong, but ends up happy. Not like the other books.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Space Dumplins by Craig Thompson

Violet lives in a futuristic space world where space whales eat everything they come across. Their poop is used as energy. When this comes to the notice of scientists, they enlist help from Violet's father to kidnap a baby whale in the midst of a diarrhea spill coming from a sick whale. Violet allies with 50 percent of the last lumpkins, an intelligent chicken, and a spaceship called musky to find her missing father at all costs.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Harry Potter and the sorcerers stone by J.K Rowling

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


I would like to be friends with Ron he seems really funny. He is also a good friend. The person I would not like to be friends with is Draco Malfoy. He thinks he is so great but he is not.


- Caroline, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

"The Moorchild" by Eloise McGraw

"The Moorchild" is about a girl named Saaski who is kind of an outcast to the rest of her village. She doesn't know why until she starts remembering her past. That's all I am going to tell you because you should read it yourself. This book is amazing.


- Lillian, Grade 6, Cambridge Street Upper School

March by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Drew Powell

"March" is a graphic novel about Congressman John Lewis—his childhood and when he was a young man. I really liked it because the drawings are really and the writing really makes you think. The whole novel is very creative.


- Lillian, Grade 6, Cambridge Street Upper School

The Galactic Goal by Elisabetta Dami

The Galactic Goal is the fourth book in the spacemice adventure series after their thrilling adventures in space. In The Galactic Goal, the spacemice were invited to participate in the Intergalactic Soccerix Championship (galaxy soccer championship). The spacemice were happy to participate but not with the Intergalactic Soccerix Championship (galaxy soccer championship) bully champions. This book is really awesome!!!


- Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Tygrine Cat by Inbali Iserles

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


I would most want to be friends with Domino, because he's kind and funny and loyal, even though he's still pretty young. He's Mati's (the protaginest) best friend in the Cressida Cat's kin.

I would least want to be friends with Binjax because he's really jealous, and kind of rude. Also, he's not very loyal.


- Grade 6

The Hotel is Haunted by Elisabetta Dami

If you could be or had to become one character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?


If I could or had to become one of the characters in this book, I would choose to be Hercule because he is very smart. Plus, he is also very enthusiastic and brave and sometimes he is also kind of funny.


- Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

Evil Genius by Catherine Jinks

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


This book about a genius kid who is evil that wants to take over the world will really blow your mind away. I would really recommend this book to anyone. Especially the ones who likes to read long fiction books.


- Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

Willy Maykit in Space by Greg Trine

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


If I could rewrite one part of the story, I would just change the part where the android pilot, Max became crazy and suddenly became really annoying to everyone. Because of that part, Willy and his friends had to stay longer at the unknown planet. But however, this book was actually pretty fun to me.


- Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

Exploring Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Waterson

This book shows what went into making the numerous hilarious Calvin and Hobbes comics. It shows why Calvin thinks of himself as a pilot. It shows why Calvin annoys his neighbor, Susie, to no end. It shows why Calvin uses the same box as a duplicator, ethicator, transmogrifier, and a time machine. Hobbes is really in for a wild ride. He's just another part of Calvin.
This book is really good for adults who wonder why their kids like comics so much.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Camp Half - Blood Confidential by Rick Riordan

This book is presented by Pete the geyser. It explains the almost in-explainable car disappearances on Long Island Sound. It explains just why somehow that spot over there never gets any precipitation. It explains why a pizza guy reported seeing climbing wall with lava and a horse man. Don't worry about the monsters.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Divergent by Veronica Roth

There are five "factions" in the government: Candor, Erudite, Dauntless, Abnegation, and Amity. When you turn 16, you choose which faction you will join, or stay with. Each faction holds a trait precious.
Now, Eric has been turning that around. The Erudite look like they're trying to start a war. But they don't know how to play with guns. And the Dauntless don't wanna work for them.
They don't have to like it. They just have to do it.
Without knowing it.


- Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Hilo: The Great Big Boom by Judd Winnick

This is the third in the series. After Hilo saves the world from a giant mass of vegetables, a giant killer robot, and a smaller, more powerful killer robot, his friend Gina is sucked into a portal into another world. Hilo proceeds to find her but on the way finds someone who he hasn't seen for a negative number of years.
This book is "OUTSTANDING!!!!" or "AAAAHHHHH!!!" as Hilo would say.


-Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Marvel Star Wars Darth Vader: End of Games

Inspector Thanoth finally digs deep enough and finds out who Darth Vader really is. And by saying so, gets himself killed. But Thanoth knew it would happen.
Dr. Aphra has escaped from rebel clutches and now hides, while her two Suicidal droids BT and 000 hunt her down and blow up anyone who gets in their way. Or drains their blood.
Everyone who gets in triple zero's way DIES.
Darth Vader then orders Triple Zero to hunt down Aphra and send her in unharmed, while Vader hunts down Dr. Cylo IV, before realizing that Cyclo IV is really a clone with the same memories. It makes him an immortal traitor running away from the empire.
As this happens, many important secrets and test are revealed, and Vader pushes the limits of living after already doing so. And now Cyclo may be the master after all.


-Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Marvel Star Wars: Showdown on The Smuggler's Moon by Jason Aaron

Luke Skywalker is hot on the trail of finding coruscant to boost his jedi training. He goes to the smuggler's moon Nar Shadda to find info on how to get there, but ends up getting owned by a jedi relic collecting Hutt named Gakkus. Gakkus makes Luke fight a huge monster before getting betrayed by the Gamemaster who is really an imperial spy keeping watch on Gakkus' arena. Meanwhile, Sana Solo (Han's fake wife) explains through many blaster threats to Leia that the wedding was to mask a robbery. Legally they are married, but not according to Han. They all form a nice relationship without realizing that Vader sent Sana to hunt Han down.


-Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Marvel Star Wars Darth Vader: Shadows and Secrets

After Vader finds out that the pilot who blew up the death star is his son he never knew he had, Vader wants Skywalker. Vader hunts down the whereabouts of Skywalker himself until he finds where the boy is, while Dr. Aphra gets herself into some trouble stealing credits and then getting double - crossed. It's a wild ride now, while Vader finds himself hunting down Dr. Aphra. Vader and her are definitely in a tight spot - they're pinned against each other.

Marvel Star Wars Darth Vader: Vader by Kieron Gillen

After the first death star has been blown up, Vader is put into rivalry for his spot in the Empire against new organisms that threaten to take his place as the emperor's second in command. Meanwhile, Dr. Aphra breaks into a quarantined facility to steal the Triple Zero Matrix, and robot personality made during the Clone Wars that threatened the entire galaxy. When Dr. Aphra decides to become an ally of Vader's because Vader is there, Vader decides YES. Dr. Aphra, however, has some other plans of her own.
After the first death star has been blown up, more sparks will fly.


-Bruce, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

Among the Barons by Margret Peterson Haddix

Okay, what I'm reading, it's the 4th book, and I must admit, that I didn't want to read the book--Among the Hidden, because for some reason, I thought it was boring, but scratch that. I now like the series. I'm not in LOVE LOVE with that book. I am really weird, I choose books, just looking at the cover, and all of them turns out to be good.


WARNING:SPOILERS!!!


I didn't think Oscar would lie. I didn't think Oscar would plan to kill Lee and Smits' parents. I didn't think it was Oscar who was blackmailing Lee and Smits' paretnts. I didn't think Lee--Luke would trust Oscar. Lee--Luke. trust NO ONE except Mr.Talbot and Mr. Hendricks and few more, and that means, do not trust Oscar.




-Amy, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

Children of the Lamp by P.B.Kerr

Children of the lamp is a seven book series about twin djinn (genies) John and Philippa. Through the course of this action packed series, they adventure across the world to stop villains and stop disasters. There are funny and sentimental moments that help readers to really get into the character. These are great books for lovers of fantasy and magic.


-Virginia, Grade 6, Amigos School

Who is Malala Yousafzai? By Dinah Brown

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


When Malala was a little girl she wanted to be a doctor. She knew that she would have to go to school but she didn't mind she love school. She loved studying and homework. On October 9 2012 she was riding home on the school bus and you can see what happens when you read the book.


-Callie, Grade 6, Amigos School

The House of Months and Years by Emma Trevayne

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


I would like all the Amie and her cousins all live together after their adventure that made them wiser. I would like them to have some kind of plan about telling people that memories are more important than time , becuase you can never mesure the present, yet memories always stay in your heart to remember. I would like Amie and both Mathew and Owens to tell Lavender the truth. Many people trying to convince other people to do something just tell them the bright side of the story, but never the cruel coincidences.


-Luna, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

What Else is New?

DOES ANYBODY GO TO CBI ??????? ;)


-Luna, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

What Else is New?

Notice: The Joke below is very corny and cheesy so if you think you can't take it, it would be recommended to skip the punch line.


Joke: A ham sandwich walks into a bar and asks the Bartender for a beer.
The Bartender answers him " Sorry sir but we don't serve food here"


-Nicolas, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

Space Case by Stuart Gibbs

Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).


The book is Space Case by Stuart Gibbs, the author of the Spy School series. The book is a mystery on the moon where the main character, Dashiell, has to solve the mystery and find the person that murdered Dr. Holtz before his great discovery. As he is uncovering a mystery he encounters with the only adult that is willing to help him because all other adults think that his ideas are nonsense and that Dr. Holtz got killed by accident. At the end after a lot of investigation and multiple misleads, Dashiell and his newly arrived friend Kira discover who the murderer was (I am not going to says his or her name for those of you who want to read it) and realizes at the end that the only person that was willing to help him was only known to him and Dr. Holtz, the person who's name was Zan Perfonic was not real or at least nobody else could see her. That happens because Zan was not human, she was an extra-terrestrial who came from another galaxy and had traveled there with her thought which made only the chosen people able to see her. At that moment at the start of the last chapter of the story, she is discovered and that's when I felt very weird because I realized that I was wrong during the whole story about her and about many others who I misplace as suspects or innocent. And that is the component, I think that makes Stuart Gibbs' story suspense and mystery until the very end of the book, during the whole book he misleads us or he makes us think something even though it's not true. So after reading the book I thought about the power that authors had to be able to manipulate us.


-Nicolas, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).


At the beginning of the book I was really mad at Cecile, WHY WOULD SHE LEAVE HER DAUGHTERS LIKE THAT AND NEVR COME BACK FOR THEM? Throughout the story the 3 sisters are trying to find what is going on with their mother. She does not want to have her daughters in the kitchen, and doesn't care what they do during the day. When one day the see a police car outside their door. Cecile was caught. What had she done? Did it have something to do with whatever she was doing in the kitchen ? Cecile was a very mysterious character for me, that I did not solve until the end of the book, where she says it all.


-Luna, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

Real Friends by Shannon Hale

Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).


One thing that made me have strong feelings in this book was mad. The 2 reasons why is, that Shannon's older sister Wendy acts obnoxious, as if she has to torture Shannon every second. And Jenny was insulting Shannon over and over at recess, and still is a part of The Group!


-Kiersten, Grade 6, Putnam Ave Upper School

Whatever After by Sarah Mlynowsky

The Whatever After series has nine books. So far, I've read the first three. In each, Abby and her brother, Jonah, get sucked into fairy tales. Each one is different and interesting. It lets you learn about fairy tales, and their actually more interesting than you might think. So far, my favorite is number two. Cinderella. One of my favorite things about these books are that you don't really know which Fairy tale they'll go to until you get the book. The covers give away the story. Happy reading!


-Rue, Grade 6, Amigos School

Upside down Magic: Sticks and stones by Sarah Mlynowsky

Sticks and stones is the second book in the Upside-down Magic trilogy. Anyone who likes magic-y type books should really read this book. In my opinion, its better than the first. if you've read Upside-down Magic, definitely read this.


-Rue, Grade 6, Amigos School

Forge by Laurie Halse Anderson

Forge, by Laurie Halse Anderson isa great book that I'd recommend to anyone who has read Chains, the first book in h trilogy of Forge. In Forge, the main character, Curzon Smith, is a runaway slave and escaped prisoner who joined the army. Though I thought this book was very good, I will admit that the first part is very slow moving. Once you get to parts two and three, suspense starts bubbling up and the story gets more interesting. Curzon is a brave boy who knows how to laugh and stand up for himself. He's smart at times and other times blunt. He is also dealing with some important questions about what it means to be a black person during the time of the revolutionary war. I think that anyone that reads this book with take Curzon's perspective on everything that happens and see it how he does. If you like historical fiction with strong characters and good writing (which everyone should like), Forge won't do you wrong. Laur ie Halse Anderson does an amazing job of bringing Curzon and the rest to life. I highly recommend this book!


-Rue, Grade 6, Amigos School

Shug by Jenny Han

This book is about Annmarie (aka shug) and the changes she experiences as a twelve year old.She learns about growing up and the way friends and family can change for the better or worse.


-Gisela, Grade 6, Cambridge Street Upper School

Fish in a Tree By Lynda M. Hunt

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


In Fish in a Tree the characters I would like to be friends with the most are Ally and Shay. I would like to be friends with Ally because I feel like I would be able to support and help her to make her feel more confident in herself because she has dyslexia. I would like to be friends with Shay because I think that I could help her believe in herself and stop her from being the "antagonist". The character that I would like to be friends with the least is Jessica. I understand how Jessica feels overwhelmed by Shay but I also think that she should be able to stand up for herself and say I don't want to be your friend.


P.S. Always remember:"Everyone is smart in different ways. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its life believing it is stupid." - Mr. Daniels


-Vida, Grade 6, Cambridge Street Upper School

Magnus Chase and the gods of asgard; the sword of summer by Rick Riordon

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


The person I would most want to be friends with would be Samirah al-Abbas, one of the protagonist's friend and comrade through out the book. I would want to be friends with her because she is an independent thinker, and she doesn't let what other people think of her get in her way.

The person I would not like to be friend's with would be Mallory Keening. She is a brat, and a hot head. I hate her. We don't see alot of her (thankfully) because she doesn't go on the quest with Magnus.

-Grade 6

Cowardly Clyde By Bill Peat

I think cowardly clyde is a good example for the book because when he ran out of
the woods he looked back and saw there was no one on his saddle. But even though he was scared to go back he said'' even though i'm not brave i can still act like I am''.

-Gabriel, Grade 6, Cambridge Street Upper School

Poached by Stuart Gibbs

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


If i could rewrite one part of the story it would be that the zoo people actually told the crowd that the koala was stolen.Thats what i would change.

-Gabriel, Grade 6, Cambridge Street Upper School

What Else is New?

Cat,
Thank you for quoting me! For those of you who don't know, LLAMAS RULE!!!! And if you also came to DARTS, I miss you guys a lot! Please stay in touch. -Emi / President Sparkles of The Unicorns

DARTIES FOREVER!!!!

-Emi, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Little Prince By Antonie De Saint-Exubéry

This is a book that has humor, sadness, and meaningful parts all in one book. The Little Prince was originally written in french, and has been translated into many different languages. This book can not be descried in a book review, other than " YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK!!!"
My favorite character is the sheep. You will see why if you read this book...

PS. Do not watch the Netflix movie of it before you read the book. But you can watch it after, because the movie is not accurate, and you will think the book is the last one to come out.

-Emi, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

Eclipse By Stephanie Meyer

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


I would recommend this book because of the mystery and thrill . The epic battle of vampires at the end and the beginning of the end for Bella.

-Grade 7

The Apprenticeship of Lucas Whitaker by Cynthia DeFelice

Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).

Maybe some of us knows how it feels when we lose our beloved ones. So this is what happened to a twelve year old boy, Lucas Whitaker when all the members of his family passed away. The book made me feel really sad and sorry for Lucas but however he still didn't give up so easily. Finally, I just wanted to say that I believe that if you continue to be brave and strong, you will succeed.

-Abdul, Grade 7, Vassal Lane Upper School

Ranger's Apprentice The Early Years: The Tournament At Gorlan

The first book in the prequel series to Rangers throws you in to action, mystery, and suspense. This book can either be read before or after the Ranger's Apprentice series (I recommend that if you haven't yet read the Ranger's Apprentice series you do read this before because the Ranger's Apprentice series contains some spoilers). As a warning the book's plot may slow down at times but it will speed back up again. Though the plot may be slow at times the rest is full of action packed fast paced scenes that will throw you head first in to battles, trials of wit and brains, and tactical struggles. A good choice

-Jay, Grade 6, Cambridge Street Upper School

Peace Locomotion by Jacqueline Woodson

The sequel to Locomotion is just as good if not better, it isn't written in poems (I personally thought that was a downside) but it makes up for the change by letting the reader get a look into Lonnie's more day-to-day life including a new teacher, a new friend, and a new member of the household he has finally adjusted to. Lonnie's life might just turn upside but he is still the same Lonnie Collins Motion he was in Locomotion. If you're looking for more after reading locomotion this is what you NEED to read

-Jay, Grade 6, Cambridge Friends School

What Else is New?

Doing a nice singing/drama camp

-Jay, Grade 7, Cambridge Street Upper School

The Pearl by John Steinback

Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).


I felt like there were parts that were very powerful, like the references to the songs of family, evil, the pearl, and so on. And I liked that it was about a culture I don't usually read about often. But, I also feel that some parts just seem to go on forever, just describing stuff and nothing really happening. I think I would like the book better if it wasn't for school, and I could have read it faster at some parts, and taken my time on others.

-Avery, Grade 7, Cambridge Friends School

Locomotion by Jacqueline Woodson

Even though the book was required reading it was really, really good. I immediately got in touch with Lonnie Collins Motion or Locomotion. The poems dig deep into his feelings and are all connected in a meaningful way. The book was sometimes sad and sometimes uplifting. Each poem made me feel a new way. Definitely not a book to put off reading

-Jay, Grade 6, Cambridge Street Upper School

The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey

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


Why did you chose to not give the aliens that invade the earth, bodies and instead have them attach to human brains and control their minds. It makes the book seem a lot more ruched and it also makes the book feel like it doesn't have a clear center plot. The part with the controlled humans takes away from the book.

-Grade 7

Saphire Blue by: Kerstin Gier

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 Lucy who is Gwen's(the main character) aunt who ran away from home with a man named Paul. They are shown as the evil characters and are often men5tioned in the book but there really isn't a part in the story that tells you about their history and what they want to do to Gwen.

-Grade 7

Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier

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


I would ask the author why she choose to have Gwen's(main character) cousin Charlotte be such a stuck up brat. After all they are family and the fact that though out the book Charlotte goes out of her way to make Gwen's life miserable is kind of sad. In one part of the book Charlotte even spread a rumor that Gwen was using anorexicia, which is a pill that makes you have a loss of appetite so that you can lose weight. Charlotte claimed the reason that Gwen used this pill was that so she could be as skinny as Charlotte.

-Grade 7

What Else is New?

Riddle:
What is light as a feather but not even the strongest person can lift it?

Hint: What is lightER than a feather?

-Emilia, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School

The Hunger Games By Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games is a action packed book about 16 year old Katniss Everdeen who lives in what was once North America, but is now the nation of Panem. Panam has 12 districts and one Capitol, which rules over all the districts. The Hunger games is where 24 teens get thrown into a death arena, and basically get told to kill each other if they want to survive. Weird right? Anyway, when Katniss gets thrown into the arena she faces many challenges, many just in her own head...

(I LOVED THIS BOOK! Fifth time I read it!!!)

-Emilia, Grade 6, Vassal Lane Upper School