Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).
Well i just finished this book. This was a really good book. It had a lot of feelings. Will ( the character) has a pretty sad like, his father that was loved very much committed suicide and his best friend was raped by 2 boys. This story was mostly about him comparing things now to before and his memories. There were a lot of quotes in the book like," When you fail don`t give up try try again ", or "Don`t let the bastards get to you ( which was the most used and the most strongest one ), Will thought they were stupid but then till the end he figured out how powerful they are. My favorite quote was also used a lot and I saw power in it, the quote was " music is a refuge of the lonely" it made me have mixed feelings. I found it a sad but powerful book. I liked it a lot and i think you should read it.
- Rafa, 6th grade, CSUS
Friday, June 29, 2018
Endurance by Scott Kelly
Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).
Endurance is a book about Scott Kelly, a astronaut that went to the international space station as well as quite a few space shuttle missions. One even on Christmas.
The book starts kinda at the end because it describes his struggle coming back to earth after being in space for one year. It talks about the journey just to his bed. I don't like how in the middle of the book Scott starts talking about his training in Russia and stuff because I feel that he should have started with that.
What made me really sad is when he talked about how his identical brothers wife (Gabrielle Giffords) was shot in Tucson, Arizona in the head, luckily she survived, but the gunman killed a nine year old girl born on September, 11, 2001.
Overall the book was pretty great i would definitely recommend it to someone else.
So, i was thinking "this is great i dont need to add what else" but then i was like wait no, because scott kelly once had a tweet conversation with barrack obama
- Addison, 6th grade, RAUS
Endurance is a book about Scott Kelly, a astronaut that went to the international space station as well as quite a few space shuttle missions. One even on Christmas.
The book starts kinda at the end because it describes his struggle coming back to earth after being in space for one year. It talks about the journey just to his bed. I don't like how in the middle of the book Scott starts talking about his training in Russia and stuff because I feel that he should have started with that.
What made me really sad is when he talked about how his identical brothers wife (Gabrielle Giffords) was shot in Tucson, Arizona in the head, luckily she survived, but the gunman killed a nine year old girl born on September, 11, 2001.
Overall the book was pretty great i would definitely recommend it to someone else.
So, i was thinking "this is great i dont need to add what else" but then i was like wait no, because scott kelly once had a tweet conversation with barrack obama
- Addison, 6th grade, RAUS
Beyonders: Chasing The Prophecy by Brandon Mull
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 people who like the Percy Jackson books, or really any fantasy book with that kind of style. I would recommend this book because it is very action packed and exciting. This is the third book in a series and is in my opinion the best book in the trilogy. One reason I would not recommend this book is that you have to read the two other books in the series to understand what is going on. The first book isn't bad, the second book wasn't as interesting to me, but you have to struggle through it to understand this book. Overall, I think that this book is worth reading, and I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy and is willing to read the other two books in the series.
- Eliza, 7th grade, VLUS
I would recommend this book to people who like the Percy Jackson books, or really any fantasy book with that kind of style. I would recommend this book because it is very action packed and exciting. This is the third book in a series and is in my opinion the best book in the trilogy. One reason I would not recommend this book is that you have to read the two other books in the series to understand what is going on. The first book isn't bad, the second book wasn't as interesting to me, but you have to struggle through it to understand this book. Overall, I think that this book is worth reading, and I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy and is willing to read the other two books in the series.
- Eliza, 7th grade, VLUS
Dogs of War by Sheila Keenan and Nathan Fox
If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?
I would ask why exactly Sheila Keenan and Nathan Fox, the authors of Dogs of War, why they decided to write this topic, and this book. My answer would be something along the lines of, “Because normally when people think of war heroes they think of humans that won the war for their country. Little do they know that animals, including dogs, are a big part of wars and battles.” I would like to see what their reasoning was for writing this topic, and if it were to be similar to my reasoning of why I would write this topic.
- Emi, 7th grade, VLUS
I would ask why exactly Sheila Keenan and Nathan Fox, the authors of Dogs of War, why they decided to write this topic, and this book. My answer would be something along the lines of, “Because normally when people think of war heroes they think of humans that won the war for their country. Little do they know that animals, including dogs, are a big part of wars and battles.” I would like to see what their reasoning was for writing this topic, and if it were to be similar to my reasoning of why I would write this topic.
- Emi, 7th grade, VLUS
Swing It Sunny by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm
What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?
I would most likely want to be friends with Dale now since he has shined his bright side on. I would least likely want to be friends with the guy who encouraged Dale to take drugs but on the bright side the book was awesome there has to be a third I mean what happens next is driving me crazy.
- Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
I would most likely want to be friends with Dale now since he has shined his bright side on. I would least likely want to be friends with the guy who encouraged Dale to take drugs but on the bright side the book was awesome there has to be a third I mean what happens next is driving me crazy.
- Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
Red Scarf Girl By Ji-Li Jiang
If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?
If I could ask Ji-Li Jiang one question, it would be: How did you continue to act so grown up during such an awful time? This story takes place in China during the cultural revolution. Ji-Li comes from a family with a bad political status and this holds her back. Even though sometimes it seems as though Ji-Li is younger than she is, she is mature and collected during the book. Her whole childhood seems frightening and stressful, and I cant imagine living in a time where my grandfather's life could take away some of my opportunities. This book is slow moving, and possibly not very page turning, but it tells an amazing story about one girl living in an oppressive society, and that book taught me so much about the cultural revolution that I would not have known without it.
- Isabella, 7th grade, Amigos
If I could ask Ji-Li Jiang one question, it would be: How did you continue to act so grown up during such an awful time? This story takes place in China during the cultural revolution. Ji-Li comes from a family with a bad political status and this holds her back. Even though sometimes it seems as though Ji-Li is younger than she is, she is mature and collected during the book. Her whole childhood seems frightening and stressful, and I cant imagine living in a time where my grandfather's life could take away some of my opportunities. This book is slow moving, and possibly not very page turning, but it tells an amazing story about one girl living in an oppressive society, and that book taught me so much about the cultural revolution that I would not have known without it.
- Isabella, 7th grade, Amigos
The Romantics By Leah Konen
In this book, the main character's name is Gael. He is DESPERATE for love, and just got dumped by his girlfriend, who cheated on him with his best friend. To put the cherry on top, his parents just got separated. I like reading romantic books, and recommend this to anyone else who does too. I'm only halfway through the book, but I'm excited to finish it!
- Isabella, 7th grade, Amigos
Genie in a Bottle By Sarah Mlynowski
Genie in a Bottle is number 9 in the Whatever After series by Sarah Mlynowski. It is about a girl named Abby and her brother Jonah and their dog, Prince, who go into the fairy tale of Aladdin. Its an easy book, that's fun to read, and its a quick read. I like reading Whatever After because even though they are princess books that might be more for elementary schoolers, they are entertaining, and fun to read.
- Isabella, 7th grade, Amigos
Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
This book is about a girl named Astrid who likes roller derby and her best friend Aka Nicole likes ballet but can't figure out a way to tell her, she thinks Nicole will be right by her side. During the book they all face challenges of there own but in the end they resolve it.
- Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
- Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
Sunny Side Up by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm
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 part where Dale hit her on the shoulder I felt bad for dale because now he was in biiiiiiig troubl;e with his parents.
- Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
The part where Dale hit her on the shoulder I felt bad for dale because now he was in biiiiiiig troubl;e with his parents.
- Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
Thursday, June 28, 2018
Driving by Starlight by:Anat Deracine
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 because it touches on issues that most of us are unaware of : the oppression of women in Saudi Arabia. Before I read this book I knew that women didn't have the right to drive until recently but I didn't release how bad the legal situation was for women in Saudi Arabia, and this book really opened my eyes to the everyday struggles women in Saudi Arabia face.
-8th grade, VLUS
I would definitely recommend this book because it touches on issues that most of us are unaware of : the oppression of women in Saudi Arabia. Before I read this book I knew that women didn't have the right to drive until recently but I didn't release how bad the legal situation was for women in Saudi Arabia, and this book really opened my eyes to the everyday struggles women in Saudi Arabia face.
-8th grade, VLUS
A Game of Love and Death by:Martha Brockenbrough
If this book were set 100 years in the future or the past from when it takes place, what might be different about the plot, characters, etc.
Everything in this book would be different if it was 100 years in the future. For most of this book the main characters can't be together because one is white and the other is black, since this book is set in the late 1940's. However if this book was set 100 years in the past the main character probably would have been killed the white supremacists that almost kill the African American character Flora.
-8th grade, VLUS
Everything in this book would be different if it was 100 years in the future. For most of this book the main characters can't be together because one is white and the other is black, since this book is set in the late 1940's. However if this book was set 100 years in the past the main character probably would have been killed the white supremacists that almost kill the African American character Flora.
-8th grade, VLUS
Tower of Dawn by:Sarah J. Mass
If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?
I feel like, while Sarah J. Mass is a great writer and her characters are very developed, her series' have the same predictable cliché characters. All her stories have the stereotypical aristocratic girl who was going to become either a queen or a very noble lady, but then all is deprived and because of that, she has to learn how to survive, either by hunting or becoming an assassin. She then meets a big strong male who saves her and just happens to also be rich, powerful and at least 200 years older than she is. If I could rewrite one part of the story I would probably make Yrene more stronger mentally because in this book while she is very smart, she is portrayed as being weaker than her male counterparts, and also make it so that she was middle class, or from a lower income family so that she is more relatable to.
-8th grade, VLUS
I feel like, while Sarah J. Mass is a great writer and her characters are very developed, her series' have the same predictable cliché characters. All her stories have the stereotypical aristocratic girl who was going to become either a queen or a very noble lady, but then all is deprived and because of that, she has to learn how to survive, either by hunting or becoming an assassin. She then meets a big strong male who saves her and just happens to also be rich, powerful and at least 200 years older than she is. If I could rewrite one part of the story I would probably make Yrene more stronger mentally because in this book while she is very smart, she is portrayed as being weaker than her male counterparts, and also make it so that she was middle class, or from a lower income family so that she is more relatable to.
-8th grade, VLUS
What Else Is New?
I go to the library almost every day, but not today. I am sick. Also, it is rainy.
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
Monsters Beware! by Aguirre and Rosado
Monsters Beware is the final comic book in a series called Giants Beware!
In this book, the three friend Claudette, Gaston, and Marie go to try and win the annual games. Claudette is a warrior, Gaston is a cook, and Marie is a princess. All of them are young. When teams begin to disappear and the sea kingdom keeps winning, they decide to investigate. Under all of the muck is a plot to free an evil wizard and rule the world! This plan is stopped by a bunch of frozen dessert. Read more to find out.
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
In this book, the three friend Claudette, Gaston, and Marie go to try and win the annual games. Claudette is a warrior, Gaston is a cook, and Marie is a princess. All of them are young. When teams begin to disappear and the sea kingdom keeps winning, they decide to investigate. Under all of the muck is a plot to free an evil wizard and rule the world! This plan is stopped by a bunch of frozen dessert. Read more to find out.
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
Space Visual Encyclopedia by Jacqueline Street and Vivienne Yong
This is a nonfiction book about space. Hence the title.
Anyone who loves anything about space should check out this book. It his space ships, stars, black holes, and more.
Explained in this book are the first few space missions, the details of black holes, the stages of a star, and much, much more.
I loved this book, and I think that many others will too.
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
Anyone who loves anything about space should check out this book. It his space ships, stars, black holes, and more.
Explained in this book are the first few space missions, the details of black holes, the stages of a star, and much, much more.
I loved this book, and I think that many others will too.
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely
All American Boys is a book that discusses the topic of racism and police brutality.
When Rashad, a black kid, is beat up by a police officer he is sent to the hospital with broken ribs and a broken nose, plus a lot of blood.
Quinn, a white kid that goes to the same school as Rashad, watches part of this happen.
While Rashad deals with his nonacceptance, Quinn has to find his guts and take sides.
Note: All of this started when Rashad tried to buy a bag of chips. Just saying.
This book is well written, and good for those who are more mature.
DO NOT give this to your younger siblings. There are a lot of swears in it.
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
When Rashad, a black kid, is beat up by a police officer he is sent to the hospital with broken ribs and a broken nose, plus a lot of blood.
Quinn, a white kid that goes to the same school as Rashad, watches part of this happen.
While Rashad deals with his nonacceptance, Quinn has to find his guts and take sides.
Note: All of this started when Rashad tried to buy a bag of chips. Just saying.
This book is well written, and good for those who are more mature.
DO NOT give this to your younger siblings. There are a lot of swears in it.
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
Star Wars Infinities: Epic Collection by Chris Warner, Dave Land, Adam Gallardo and J.W. Rinzler
This book is a collection of what could have happened in star wars 4, 5, and 6.
The infinity for 4 is that when they're trying to destroy the death star, Luke fires his torpedoes and one of them explodes short of the reactor. This eventually leads to Princess Leia becoming a Jedi and defeating the emperor with Vader and Luke. The death star, which is still around, is hijacked by Master Yoda. Yoda uses it to blow up the imperial fleet, and then he de - orbits the station and plows it onto the emperor's throne room, killing Sidious, Vader, and a lot of other imperials.
The infinity for 5 is when Luke is killed by the monster in the cave. Vader still thinks Luke is alive, so he searches the galaxy. Finally, Vader goes to Dagobah to find that Luke told Leia to learn to be a Jedi. Vader, Yoda, and Leia battle until Vader defeats Yoda. Immediatley, Han and Chewie blast Vader. This results somehow in him turning good, and then he dies. Just like in episode 6.
In the infinity for 6, Leia is making a barter with Chewbacca. Jabba doesn't like it, so he swats C3P0. This time, C3PO crashes to the ground, temporarily breaking him. Jabba can't understand what Leia is saying after this, so she reveals herself and throws a grenade. In the chaos, Boba Fett escapes with Carbonite Han Solo. Leia shoots and misses. The shot she fired hit the carbonation chamber, which leads to Han Solo losing his eyesight... permanently. Since there is no reason for Leia to go onto the ground, she goes up with Luke to confront the emperor. They fight with Vader, cutting his arm off and then taking them with him off of the station. The emperor escapes at this point. Then, Vader joins with the rebel alliance to hunt down Darth Sidious. The end of this infinity finds Darth Vader... with his armor painted white. Blech.
There is also another issue in there, but it is strictly confidential. You'll have to find out what it is.
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
The infinity for 4 is that when they're trying to destroy the death star, Luke fires his torpedoes and one of them explodes short of the reactor. This eventually leads to Princess Leia becoming a Jedi and defeating the emperor with Vader and Luke. The death star, which is still around, is hijacked by Master Yoda. Yoda uses it to blow up the imperial fleet, and then he de - orbits the station and plows it onto the emperor's throne room, killing Sidious, Vader, and a lot of other imperials.
The infinity for 5 is when Luke is killed by the monster in the cave. Vader still thinks Luke is alive, so he searches the galaxy. Finally, Vader goes to Dagobah to find that Luke told Leia to learn to be a Jedi. Vader, Yoda, and Leia battle until Vader defeats Yoda. Immediatley, Han and Chewie blast Vader. This results somehow in him turning good, and then he dies. Just like in episode 6.
In the infinity for 6, Leia is making a barter with Chewbacca. Jabba doesn't like it, so he swats C3P0. This time, C3PO crashes to the ground, temporarily breaking him. Jabba can't understand what Leia is saying after this, so she reveals herself and throws a grenade. In the chaos, Boba Fett escapes with Carbonite Han Solo. Leia shoots and misses. The shot she fired hit the carbonation chamber, which leads to Han Solo losing his eyesight... permanently. Since there is no reason for Leia to go onto the ground, she goes up with Luke to confront the emperor. They fight with Vader, cutting his arm off and then taking them with him off of the station. The emperor escapes at this point. Then, Vader joins with the rebel alliance to hunt down Darth Sidious. The end of this infinity finds Darth Vader... with his armor painted white. Blech.
There is also another issue in there, but it is strictly confidential. You'll have to find out what it is.
-Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
1984 by:George Orwell
If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?
This book 1984 and Animal Farm touch on a lot of important issues in our modern world. But one of the most striking things about both books is the fact that (spoiler alert) in both books, the ending is not a happy one. Why did you choose your stories to have unconventional endings?
8th grade, VLUS
This book 1984 and Animal Farm touch on a lot of important issues in our modern world. But one of the most striking things about both books is the fact that (spoiler alert) in both books, the ending is not a happy one. Why did you choose your stories to have unconventional endings?
8th grade, VLUS
Boys Without Names By Kashmira Sheth
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 pain for Gopal (the main character) when he moved to Mumbai. Mumbai is a big city in India very different from the small village Gopal used to live in. Gopal was forced to leave his home when his father couldn't pay the debt he owed. Gopal's family snuck away to Mumbai to live with Jama (Gopal's uncle) and to find work. Struggling with the journey to Jama's home and the lack of jobs, Gopal's family began to live a life of poverty. Desperate and in need of money, Gopal was tricked and put into a terrible situation. I can only imagine how many people there are in the world suffering under difficult circumstances. It hit me hard when I read about what Gopal had to go through. This a sad but interesting book that allowed me to look at the world in a different way.
-James, 7th grade, VLUS
I felt pain for Gopal (the main character) when he moved to Mumbai. Mumbai is a big city in India very different from the small village Gopal used to live in. Gopal was forced to leave his home when his father couldn't pay the debt he owed. Gopal's family snuck away to Mumbai to live with Jama (Gopal's uncle) and to find work. Struggling with the journey to Jama's home and the lack of jobs, Gopal's family began to live a life of poverty. Desperate and in need of money, Gopal was tricked and put into a terrible situation. I can only imagine how many people there are in the world suffering under difficult circumstances. It hit me hard when I read about what Gopal had to go through. This a sad but interesting book that allowed me to look at the world in a different way.
-James, 7th grade, VLUS
Smile by Raina Telgemier
Smile by Raina Telgemier is an outstanding book about a girl named Raina who gets braces and thinks her life is the worst because she doesn't look like an "avarage" teen age girl. In this book, Raina experiences an amazing adventure that leads her to a new life where she learns that she doesn't need to be the "avarage" teen age girl.
-Anais, 7th grade, Amigos
-Anais, 7th grade, Amigos
The Amazing World of Gumball: Scrimmage Scrabble
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 everyone who likes reading goofy, fiction books. I love watching the show The Amazing World of Gumball so I thought I should try reading the book. This is a comic book and It's about Gumball and Darwin who created a new game called Cool ball. Gumball and Darwin also tried to teach their little sister Anais to play sports. Which I love to play! So I really liked this book and I hope you do too! If you liked reading any books in this series or like watching the show comment #Gumball and Darwin for life!
-6th grader, PAUS
I would recommend this book to everyone who likes reading goofy, fiction books. I love watching the show The Amazing World of Gumball so I thought I should try reading the book. This is a comic book and It's about Gumball and Darwin who created a new game called Cool ball. Gumball and Darwin also tried to teach their little sister Anais to play sports. Which I love to play! So I really liked this book and I hope you do too! If you liked reading any books in this series or like watching the show comment #Gumball and Darwin for life!
-6th grader, PAUS
Pele King Of Soccer
This book is about a 10-year-old soccer player from Brazil named Edson Arantes, he has been playing soccer for a long time. This book is like a journey, and this journey is a 10-year-old boy playing soccer with his friends to being a professional soccer player to being the king of soccer, winning Brazil 3 world cups and scored 1,284 goals. This book is funny and non-fiction and of course a graphic novel.
-Maimouna, 7th grade, RAUC
-Maimouna, 7th grade, RAUC
Sisters by Raine Telgemeir
If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?
If I could re- write it it would be expanding the part where she sees the snake and making it more dramatic.
-Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
If I could re- write it it would be expanding the part where she sees the snake and making it more dramatic.
-Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
Anne Of Green Gables Adapted by: Mariah Marsden Writen by: L. M. Montgoimery
Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).
It made me feel vary astonished when ever Anne loses her temper, because she is such a sweet little girl, most of the time. I also think that sometimes Anne over reacts when apologizing to adults for very small things. For example, when Anne said rude things to mrs Lynde, she throws herself at mrs Lynde's feet and begs for forgiveness. I very much recommend this graphic novel adaptation of Anne Of Green Gables, to anyone and everyone.
-Alina, 6th grade, Amigos
It made me feel vary astonished when ever Anne loses her temper, because she is such a sweet little girl, most of the time. I also think that sometimes Anne over reacts when apologizing to adults for very small things. For example, when Anne said rude things to mrs Lynde, she throws herself at mrs Lynde's feet and begs for forgiveness. I very much recommend this graphic novel adaptation of Anne Of Green Gables, to anyone and everyone.
-Alina, 6th grade, Amigos
The Prince and the dressmaker By: Jen Wang
This book is a graphic novel about a girl named Frances who makes dresses. After an interesting turn of events occurs a mysterious lady asks Frances to make her a dresses. The only thing -- the mysterious lady is the prince. So Frances plays as the princes seamstress and the mysterious lady's seamstress who goes by, Lady Crystallia. But there is a problem. If people find out that Frances is Lady Crystallia's seamstress then they will figure out that the prince and are the same people. In the end everything works out so its a pretty good book.
-Saffiya, 6th grade, VLUS
-Saffiya, 6th grade, VLUS
Akata Witch By:Nnedi Okorafor
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 want to know more about the character Sugar Cream in this book. She is a very powerful Leopard Person/Witch and is the main character, Sunny's mentor. She seems to have an interesting backstory, but the book doesn't reveal much of it. I want a book that just goes over Sugar Creams backstory and shows some of her adventures that made her so powerful.
-Eliza, 7th grade, VLUS
I want to know more about the character Sugar Cream in this book. She is a very powerful Leopard Person/Witch and is the main character, Sunny's mentor. She seems to have an interesting backstory, but the book doesn't reveal much of it. I want a book that just goes over Sugar Creams backstory and shows some of her adventures that made her so powerful.
-Eliza, 7th grade, VLUS
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
Laura Ingalls Is Ruining My Life by Shelley Tougas
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
In Laura Ingalls Is Ruining My Life, the main character, Charlotte, moves to Walnut Grove with her family so that her mother can write a bestselling book. But Charlotte hates it. In winter, it's freezing, people talk about Laura ALL the time, and it's just another place where Charlotte's mom can avoid responsibility. Plus, Charlotte and her twin brother, Freddy, are growing apart, and her normally cheerful mother and sister aren't "rainbow-finders" anymore, as Charlotte puts it.
Charlotte is a understandable character that I can relate to, there were some unexpected plot twists, and the book was just great overall. This is definitely a book that I would recommend.
- Anaiya, 6th grade, CSUS
In Laura Ingalls Is Ruining My Life, the main character, Charlotte, moves to Walnut Grove with her family so that her mother can write a bestselling book. But Charlotte hates it. In winter, it's freezing, people talk about Laura ALL the time, and it's just another place where Charlotte's mom can avoid responsibility. Plus, Charlotte and her twin brother, Freddy, are growing apart, and her normally cheerful mother and sister aren't "rainbow-finders" anymore, as Charlotte puts it.
Charlotte is a understandable character that I can relate to, there were some unexpected plot twists, and the book was just great overall. This is definitely a book that I would recommend.
- Anaiya, 6th grade, CSUS
The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang
Prince Sebastian is about o be crowned king of France but he has a secret which only him and one other person knows. Sebastian finds someone who can help him fulfill his passion and they become friends and they hit some obstacles along the way, but it all works out in the end.
- Jonas, 8th grade, PAUS
Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson
Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).
Lia thinks that being really skinny means beautiful. She is always hungry, but she forces herself to eat really little, everyday, she gets skinner. But whenever she feels hungry, or feels like she ate too much (more than 500 calories), she gets really hard on herself by saying/ thinking this phrase over and over, ::Stupid/ugly/stupid/b****/stupid/fat/
stupid/baby/stupid/loser/stupid/lost::
- Amy, 7th grade, VLUS
Lia thinks that being really skinny means beautiful. She is always hungry, but she forces herself to eat really little, everyday, she gets skinner. But whenever she feels hungry, or feels like she ate too much (more than 500 calories), she gets really hard on herself by saying/ thinking this phrase over and over, ::Stupid/ugly/stupid/b****/stupid/fat/
stupid/baby/stupid/loser/stupid/lost::
- Amy, 7th grade, VLUS
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
a summery of the book "the wild Robot" The wild robot is about A robot that gets trapped on a island and learn tricks to survive she raises a goose builds cabins in the winter so animals can survive the harsh winter and on the way she gets a ton of friends She starts off on the ship that sinks to the bottom of the ocean she's in her crate that goes up to Rocky Shore and lands on a rock some otters come and turn her on by accident then she meets up with some that try to kill her. later on in the book falls off of Rock and onto a goose next only like she was the only survivor of the ship she raises the goose and in the winter it Migrates and the robot blids more cabins for animals to stay in A year after she comes to take her away .
- Zoey, 6th grade, VLUS
- Zoey, 6th grade, VLUS
Windfall by Jennifer E. Smith
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
The book Windfall by Jennifer E. Smith is about a girl named Alice, a boy named Leo, and a boy named Teddy. Alice's parents have died and now she leaves with her Aunt, uncle and cousin Leo. For Teddy's birthday Alice decides to buy him a lottery ticket and on the card she writes her true feelings for him. The day after the party they find out that Teddy had won 140 million dollars,read the book to find out everything that changes in the friends lives.
Between trying to make Alice's parents happy, working at a soup kitchen, something that they would have been proud of, choosing a college- Stanford or another one closer to where they live, and love.
This book is action packed and you never know what will happen next!! I recommend this book for readers in the sixth grade and above. For readers who like to read about life changing events and love. Although the book is very thick it was a pretty quick read for me. The book Windfall is definitely a book that I recommend.
- Nova, 7th grade, VLUS
The book Windfall by Jennifer E. Smith is about a girl named Alice, a boy named Leo, and a boy named Teddy. Alice's parents have died and now she leaves with her Aunt, uncle and cousin Leo. For Teddy's birthday Alice decides to buy him a lottery ticket and on the card she writes her true feelings for him. The day after the party they find out that Teddy had won 140 million dollars,read the book to find out everything that changes in the friends lives.
Between trying to make Alice's parents happy, working at a soup kitchen, something that they would have been proud of, choosing a college- Stanford or another one closer to where they live, and love.
This book is action packed and you never know what will happen next!! I recommend this book for readers in the sixth grade and above. For readers who like to read about life changing events and love. Although the book is very thick it was a pretty quick read for me. The book Windfall is definitely a book that I recommend.
- Nova, 7th grade, VLUS
Scientific Progress goes "Boink" by Bill Watterson
In this collection, Calvin undergoes a few... phases. First is his truck phase, where a bully at school steals his truck and doesn't give it back. Afterwards is the Rosalyn phase. Calvin defies Rosalyn, and Rosalyn requests a $5 advance for there to be a next time. Goodbye wallet. Then, Calvin duplicates himself six times and gets in big trouble. He transforms his duplicates into worms so that they don't bother him after that. Lastly, Calvin turns the transmogrifier onto its side and turns it into a time machine. There he accidentaly goes backwards in time to the jurassic period. Of course, no one believes him.
Calvin's got a racket going in this hilarious book.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
Calvin's got a racket going in this hilarious book.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
Lumberjanes: Stone Cold by Watters, Leyh, Pietsch, and Laiho
In this fairly new Lumberjanes adventure, they have a mystery to solve. They go to hang out with some friends, only to find out that they have all been turned to stone. Artemis also turns up, claiming that a monster is roaming loose. She thinks it is a gorgon, a mythical creature that turns people into stone if they look into it's eyes.
There is a gorgon, but then things get a bit wacky...
WITH CHILD'S GAMES!!!!!
Find out more by reading the book. It's all fun and games until someone gets hurt...
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
The Days Are Just Packed by Bill Watterson
In The Days Are Just Packed, a Calvin and Hobbes collection, Calvin goes on even more adventures. He fights with Hobbes, Susie, and his mother as usual. He plays in his clubhouse and throws mushy apples. He also ends up believing his horoscope; that he will find love today. That doesn't happen. Calvin breaks his father's binoculars, and gets his own. As long as he's going to break binoculars, they should at least be Calvin's. Last of all, Calvin blames his failures on genetic material, misplaced mud holes, adulthood, and Rosalyn. Calvin is a lot of trouble.
This is a good book that teaches kids what NOT to do around parents (in most strips).
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
This is a good book that teaches kids what NOT to do around parents (in most strips).
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
The Watsons Go To Birmingham By Christopher Paul Curtis
This book is on the short view of the life opinion of Kenny Watson. Between the dumb brother, Byron, the "smart-lipped" sister, Joetta, and the Watson parents. If you like "y'all" like funny, kid perspective books, you should come and pick out this book.
- Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
- Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
The Little Prince By Antoine de Saint Exupery
Out of AALL Mr. Exupery's books, this is MY favorite. This is a short, but heartfelt in a way that teaches a lesson. To me, it teaches a lesson that you should treasure the things you have and to NEVER forget.
- Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
Honor Girl by Maggie thrash
If you guys like graphic novels and one of your summer goals are to read a non-fiction book and read a memoir this book is great for you. This book is about a girl named Maggie who goes to this 100 year old summer camp it was a peaceful and l fun camp until one confounding moment. This moment changed what she thought about herself, and it changed what other people thought about her. Figure out what this moment is by reading this book.
-Maimouna
- Maimouna, 7th grader, RAUS
What Else Is New?
I'm about to start the babysitter's club book series can't wait!!!!
- Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
- Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang
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 one character in this book it would be Frances because she accepts everyone for who they are and she doesn't care about what other people think she has a strong personality and a good heart.
- Tabitha, 6th grade, PAUS
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
This was a amazing book! I could hardly put it down. It’s about a town who thinks that they have to sacrifice their babies for the Witch (who is actually friendly and would never do anything to a baby or a child) so that she doesn’t destroy all of them. Every year, sorrow hangs around the town, which is called the Protectorate. They leave the babies in the Forest, where the Witch (Xan) takes them, feeds them starlight and then takes them to the Free Cities where they are placed with a good family. One year, Xan accidentally feeds one of the babies moonlight, which makes the child magic. Xan names the baby Luna and takes her in as her own. As Luna’s 13th birthday approaches, her magic comes with dangerous outcomes, and a volcano, quiet for a long time, starts to rumble. Enter a young man determined to kill the witch, a madwoman, a swamp monster, a tiny dragon, and a true witch.
- Ava, 6th grade, VLUS
- Ava, 6th grade, VLUS
Furthermore by Tahereh Mafi
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
If you like fantasy books and you love reading about mysterious quests I 98% guarantee this book will be perfect for you! :) Furthermore is about a young girl named Alice who has no pigment at all (except for her eyes) in a town where color is a sign of magic. A girl who is the color of fresh snow does not fit in in a town that relies on color. Three years before the story starts Alice's father was seen leaving Ferenwood (the town they live in) with only a ruler in his hand and with no explanation. He has never returned. Alice's mother has been snappish and rude to her ever since he left and Alice misses him terribly. :( Every year there is a display of talents (each child is born with one magic ability which is their talent) and a quest is given to match the talent. When one boy gets assigned to find Alice's father he fails and later begs Alice for help. To fin Alice's father they will have to travel through Furthermore a land where nothing is as it seems. This is an amazing book and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
The second book is called "Wichwood" :D
- 6th grader, VLUS
If you like fantasy books and you love reading about mysterious quests I 98% guarantee this book will be perfect for you! :) Furthermore is about a young girl named Alice who has no pigment at all (except for her eyes) in a town where color is a sign of magic. A girl who is the color of fresh snow does not fit in in a town that relies on color. Three years before the story starts Alice's father was seen leaving Ferenwood (the town they live in) with only a ruler in his hand and with no explanation. He has never returned. Alice's mother has been snappish and rude to her ever since he left and Alice misses him terribly. :( Every year there is a display of talents (each child is born with one magic ability which is their talent) and a quest is given to match the talent. When one boy gets assigned to find Alice's father he fails and later begs Alice for help. To fin Alice's father they will have to travel through Furthermore a land where nothing is as it seems. This is an amazing book and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
The second book is called "Wichwood" :D
- 6th grader, VLUS
Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas
If you could be or had to become one character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?
Heir of fire is the third book in the throne of glass series. In this book our main character Celaena is sent to Wendlyn to kill the prince and king of Wendlyn. She has been avoiding this mission and meets Rowan who brings her to Queen Maeve. Celaena makes a deal with her to train with Rowan to show the queen her fire powers that have left her so she can be worthy of entering Doranelle. In exchange, Celaena will get answers from the queen about wyrdkeys. There have also been killings of demi-fae which are being investigated by Celaena and Rowan. They discover that the murderers are creatures names the valg. There is an epic battle that happens sooner than the fae realized and Celaena shifts to her fae form to fight. When her powers start to drain, Rowan saves her and they go to Doranelle to face Maeve. This book was an amazing continuation of the series and I absolutely loved it. If I had to become one character in the book, I would choose to become Aelin. She has amazing fire powers and super speed and agility and having all of those reflexes would be awesome. I also would want to be her because she has a really sarcastic and arrogant personality which is enjoyable to read about. I rate this book 9/10 stars and recommend it to evryone who has read the first and second book.
- Alif, 8th grade, RAUS
I'm Not Your Manic Pixie Dream Girl by Gretchen McNeil
What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?
One of the characters that I would most want to be friends with is Gabe. I would want to be friends with Gabe because Gabe is kind sweet kind and thoughtful. Gabe sticks up for his friends and says what he believes. This is why I would want to be friends with Gabe
One of the characters whom I would least want to be friends with is Beatrice. Beatrice will do anything to get what she wants, which isn't a bad thing but, she dose not think about the consequences. This is why I would not want to be friends with Beatrice
- Aurora, 6th grade, PAUS
One of the characters that I would most want to be friends with is Gabe. I would want to be friends with Gabe because Gabe is kind sweet kind and thoughtful. Gabe sticks up for his friends and says what he believes. This is why I would want to be friends with Gabe
One of the characters whom I would least want to be friends with is Beatrice. Beatrice will do anything to get what she wants, which isn't a bad thing but, she dose not think about the consequences. This is why I would not want to be friends with Beatrice
- Aurora, 6th grade, PAUS
What Else Is New?
Besides enjoying Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway my mommy has been taking me to ride my bike and play in the park. My mommy has also been cooking me Ramen noodles. Just saying my mommy's amazing!
- 6th grader, PAUS
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway by Jeff Kinney
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
If I could recommend this book to any one It would be to whoever loves Adventure, Tension and a good laugh. I give this book a 5 star rating because It's a really intriguing book that I can relate too. For example, I absolutely hate having to deal with bugs on my vacation time. I mean many people could relate. I also dread having the family make a decision that I disagree on. (It's not fun.) Until I realize that maybe the decision that the family made was a great decision and even I though I wasn't forced into it, I would've been missing out on an amazing experience just like Greg Heffley (the wimpiest character) almost did in this book. Even though Greg's adventure had It's ups and downs. Join the Heffley family on there crazy Christmas getaway. P.s If you loved this book check out all of the other fantastic books in this series!
- 6th grader, PAUS
If I could recommend this book to any one It would be to whoever loves Adventure, Tension and a good laugh. I give this book a 5 star rating because It's a really intriguing book that I can relate too. For example, I absolutely hate having to deal with bugs on my vacation time. I mean many people could relate. I also dread having the family make a decision that I disagree on. (It's not fun.) Until I realize that maybe the decision that the family made was a great decision and even I though I wasn't forced into it, I would've been missing out on an amazing experience just like Greg Heffley (the wimpiest character) almost did in this book. Even though Greg's adventure had It's ups and downs. Join the Heffley family on there crazy Christmas getaway. P.s If you loved this book check out all of the other fantastic books in this series!
- 6th grader, PAUS
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
North of Nowhere By Liz Kessler
North of Nowhere is about a girl named Mia that goes to this elderly town with her mom, to comfort her grandma. Mia's grandparents own a pub, and Mia and her mom help out while they're there. The reason why they came to comfort her grandma is because the grandma's husband went missing. throughout the time Mia was in the elderly town, she was really bored, there weren't any kids around, and there wasn't any connection. Mia always takes the dog out for walks. Mia finds a diary on a rocking boat and couldn't resist to read it. The writer's name was signed D (Dee), Mia thought Dee was just like her by just her words. She wanted to meet Dee, she wrote in the Diary, back.
Will they find her Grandpa? Will Dee and Mia ever meet? Will Mia survive in the town of boredom?
Read this book and find out! HAVE FUN!
North of Nowhere By Liz Kessle
-Kayla, 6th grade, VLUS
Will they find her Grandpa? Will Dee and Mia ever meet? Will Mia survive in the town of boredom?
Read this book and find out! HAVE FUN!
North of Nowhere By Liz Kessle
-Kayla, 6th grade, VLUS
Akata Warrior, by Nnedi Okorafor
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
This was a really great book, and I liked reading it a lot! I would recommend this book to everyone in grades 4 and above, because there were some swears and violence in it. If you want to read this book, make sure you read the first book in the series (it's called Akata Witch) before you do!
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
This was a really great book, and I liked reading it a lot! I would recommend this book to everyone in grades 4 and above, because there were some swears and violence in it. If you want to read this book, make sure you read the first book in the series (it's called Akata Witch) before you do!
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
Every Thing On It, by Shel Silverstien
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
I liked this book because it is a bunch of fun and silly poems, and it makes me laugh whenever I read it. This is a great book for younger kids, but I think older kids would like it, too! I recommend this book to everyone.
-Monique, 6th Grade, RAUC
I liked this book because it is a bunch of fun and silly poems, and it makes me laugh whenever I read it. This is a great book for younger kids, but I think older kids would like it, too! I recommend this book to everyone.
-Monique, 6th Grade, RAUC
the half-blood-prince J.K. Rowling
I loved this book and the story put into it. It really inspired me to write a whole page about it. I love the way harry suddenly is great at options and the fact that snape is the half blood-prince comes in a great surprise.
-6th grade, International School of Boston
-6th grade, International School of Boston
A Series Of Unfortunate Events book 13, by Lemony Snicket
If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?
If I could rewrite a part of this book, I would make the series longer! This was such a great book, and I was really sad that it was the last book in the series! If you are going to read this book, make sure that you read the first twelve books in the series before you do!
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
If I could rewrite a part of this book, I would make the series longer! This was such a great book, and I was really sad that it was the last book in the series! If you are going to read this book, make sure that you read the first twelve books in the series before you do!
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
What Else Is New?
I'm about to start ANOTHER book that is
"The Birmingham's Go To Washington"
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
"The Birmingham's Go To Washington"
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
Inherit Midnight By Kate Kae Myers
Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.)
Family's can be TERRIBLE!, especially Avery's.
Mainly, this book based on the broken lives' of the VanDemere's. With the "All Mothering" grandma in charge, she has created a competition that will determine the fate of who will get the inheritance? Plus, a little romance is dabbed in there.
Sounds over the top? You've have GOT to read this book to find out.
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
Family's can be TERRIBLE!, especially Avery's.
Mainly, this book based on the broken lives' of the VanDemere's. With the "All Mothering" grandma in charge, she has created a competition that will determine the fate of who will get the inheritance? Plus, a little romance is dabbed in there.
Sounds over the top? You've have GOT to read this book to find out.
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
The Familiars, by Adam Jay Epstein and Andrew Jacobson
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
I really liked this book because it was a chapter book, but it also had some illustrations and I thought that was really cool. I also liked this book because it was about three magical animals and I like magic and animals. I would recommend this book to everyone in second grade or above.
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
I really liked this book because it was a chapter book, but it also had some illustrations and I thought that was really cool. I also liked this book because it was about three magical animals and I like magic and animals. I would recommend this book to everyone in second grade or above.
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
the order of the phoenix J.K. Rowling
I don't necessarily dislike this book but it still is my least favorite in the series. I hated the part when Sirius Black dies and i especially despise the part when the magic council find out that Sirius is innocent and they do nothing about it and kind of just say "Oh well". Although i find that when they're riding the thestrals or just being with the thestrals, there is a grand mystery about these creatures since they really aren't described much.
-6th grade, International School of Boston
-6th grade, International School of Boston
Artemis Fowl book 2, by Eoin Colfer
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
This is such a great book!!! I think that it might be better than the first book, but they are both really great! There are some parts where this book is kind of violent, but if you are ok with that then read this book! But read the first book before the second book or it might not make sense.
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
This is such a great book!!! I think that it might be better than the first book, but they are both really great! There are some parts where this book is kind of violent, but if you are ok with that then read this book! But read the first book before the second book or it might not make sense.
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
What Else Is New?
I have two guinea pigs :) and they're REALLY, REALLY CUTE!
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
Artemis Fowl, by Eoin Colfer
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
This book was SO AWESOME!!! I would recommend this book to EVERYONE!!! Well, maybe not everyone, there were some gory parts (blood, violence, stuff like that) but if you're fine with that kind of thing, then you should definitely read this book!
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
This book was SO AWESOME!!! I would recommend this book to EVERYONE!!! Well, maybe not everyone, there were some gory parts (blood, violence, stuff like that) but if you're fine with that kind of thing, then you should definitely read this book!
-Monique, 6th grade, RAUC
The Poet X
The Poet X is a book about a girl named Xiomara. She lives with her strict mom, quiet dad, and her twin. Her mom is very strict and religious, and hard on Xiomara. The book is about her life through her freshman though sophomore year and it is a book in verse. I would recommend this book to people 11-12 and up since it has some swears and some mature content. Also if you like books in verse like Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson.
-Lizzie, 6th grade, Amigos
-Lizzie, 6th grade, Amigos
What Else Is New?
I'm ending this book called "Inherit Midnight". Its about a girl named Avery, whos in a competition against family. If you like action and excitement books that keep you reading every night till its midnight, this is a book for you.
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
The Blood Of Kings By Nya Jadee
Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).
Today, I also finished the second book to the Phoebe Pope Series. In this one, there's MORE romance, more deception and trouble, and EVEN MORE suspicion and sadness going around. If you like movement and fun books, you'll like this one. Plus, if you liked the first one, this one is like EVEN BETTER! {And there's a climax at the end of the book.}
I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE THIRD ONE!
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
Today, I also finished the second book to the Phoebe Pope Series. In this one, there's MORE romance, more deception and trouble, and EVEN MORE suspicion and sadness going around. If you like movement and fun books, you'll like this one. Plus, if you liked the first one, this one is like EVEN BETTER! {And there's a climax at the end of the book.}
I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE THIRD ONE!
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
The Year Of Four By Nya Jade
TO ME, this series is awesome! Nya Jade does a GREAT job intertwining the genres of fiction and romance and adventure in only TWO BOOKs in the series.
From the book, I can tell you that Phoebe Pope is at a school, UNDERground and above, for shape shifters like her. Her life is unraveled throughout the first two books with the mysteries, and trouble, and her Celebrity crush on a boy named Colton Chase, who she seems to maybe, just maybe like her.
You HAVE GOT 'TA READ THIS BOOK!
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
From the book, I can tell you that Phoebe Pope is at a school, UNDERground and above, for shape shifters like her. Her life is unraveled throughout the first two books with the mysteries, and trouble, and her Celebrity crush on a boy named Colton Chase, who she seems to maybe, just maybe like her.
You HAVE GOT 'TA READ THIS BOOK!
-Ella, 6th grade, PAUS
Harry potter and the goblet of fire J.K. Rowling
I love the way this book is written, and the idea of a story like this is unique. Although, while reading you can already tell that harry i sone of the champions. On the other side, the ending comes in a great surprise since there is no way you could have know what happens then and how harry survived that, I am still puzzled. But of course you must keep in mind that anything can happen in the wizardly world.
(P.S. I'm sorry for spoiling some other parts of the book.)
-6th grade, International School of Boston
(P.S. I'm sorry for spoiling some other parts of the book.)
-6th grade, International School of Boston
Prisoner of Azkaban J.K. Rowling
This is an amazing book but I feel it was lacking something. I am so relived that buckbeak was saved and that everything went okay in the end. I'm terribly sorry that scammers did not die since he was my least favorite character.
-6th grade, International School of Boston
-6th grade, International School of Boston
Chamber of secrets J.K. Rowling
I loved the adventure that this book brings you on and the excitement you get while reading it. I recommend it to anyone who likes adventure and is interested in magic.
(P.S. it's my favorite book in the whole series.)
-6th grade, International School of Boston
(P.S. it's my favorite book in the whole series.)
-6th grade, International School of Boston
Sorcerer's stone J.K. Rowling
I honestly love this book and I was amazed by how it turned out. At first I didn't like harry potter at all and seriously, I don't think I would have ever read it if i had something to do that afternoon. I really enjoy this book and the adventures put into it. I had an amazing time reading it.
-6th grade, International School of Boston
-6th grade, International School of Boston
The Dirt Diary By Anna Staniszewski
LOCAL AUTHOR! (Well it says “lives outside the Boston area” so close enough).
This is an awesome book, I love it!
Rachel, the main character, wants to go see her dad in Florida (she lives in New England with her mom) so that she can try to bring him back home. To get the money, she took some from her college savings that she needs to earn back so she doesn’t get in the deepest trouble ever. So she starts spending her weekends cleaning other people’s houses (from her school!) to get some money. Then someone offers to pay her money to get some screts on his girlfriend, who happens to be Rachel’s #1 enemy...
-Emilia, 7th grade, VLUS
This is an awesome book, I love it!
Rachel, the main character, wants to go see her dad in Florida (she lives in New England with her mom) so that she can try to bring him back home. To get the money, she took some from her college savings that she needs to earn back so she doesn’t get in the deepest trouble ever. So she starts spending her weekends cleaning other people’s houses (from her school!) to get some money. Then someone offers to pay her money to get some screts on his girlfriend, who happens to be Rachel’s #1 enemy...
-Emilia, 7th grade, VLUS
Mastermind: How To Think Like Sherlock Holmes By Maria Konnikova
Mastermind was an accidental read for me, because my friend got it for me thinking it was about Sherlock Holmes and not the mind of Sherlock Holmes and stuff...
This is a book about psychology and how your brain thinks and interprets new information based on past information. This is one of the last books I thought I’d read, it was the book that I read when I was trying to fall asleep (it was so boring it did make me fall asleep!). But this weekend I finally read it!! It was good, I fooled my brain, and still can’t think like Sherlock Holmes, but I’m getting there. Great book, it gets a 10/10!
-Emilia, 7th grade, VLUS
This is a book about psychology and how your brain thinks and interprets new information based on past information. This is one of the last books I thought I’d read, it was the book that I read when I was trying to fall asleep (it was so boring it did make me fall asleep!). But this weekend I finally read it!! It was good, I fooled my brain, and still can’t think like Sherlock Holmes, but I’m getting there. Great book, it gets a 10/10!
-Emilia, 7th grade, VLUS
Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas
If you could rewrite one part of the story, what would you change?
Crown of Midnight is the second book in the Throne of Glass series and follows our main character Celaena Sardothien. In this book, Celaena won the king’s champion and now is the king's personal assassin. But she is not loyal to the crown and finds that there are others seeking justice against the king too. This book took a darker turn than the first book but is still as good, if not, better. Towards the middle end of the book, one of the side characters named Nehemia Ytger is brutally killed. She was a very beloved character and influences many of our main characters decisions. She is also one of my personal favorite characters because of her peaceful but rebellious approach on things. She also cares very much for the people of her kingdom. The scene where Nehemia dies is one I would rewrite and I would change the fact that Nehemia died even though she died for a good cause. Nehemia's death was a world shaking scene and is what I would change in the story. I rate this book 10/10 stars and recommend it to everyone who has read the first book!
-Alif, 8th grade, RAUC
Crown of Midnight is the second book in the Throne of Glass series and follows our main character Celaena Sardothien. In this book, Celaena won the king’s champion and now is the king's personal assassin. But she is not loyal to the crown and finds that there are others seeking justice against the king too. This book took a darker turn than the first book but is still as good, if not, better. Towards the middle end of the book, one of the side characters named Nehemia Ytger is brutally killed. She was a very beloved character and influences many of our main characters decisions. She is also one of my personal favorite characters because of her peaceful but rebellious approach on things. She also cares very much for the people of her kingdom. The scene where Nehemia dies is one I would rewrite and I would change the fact that Nehemia died even though she died for a good cause. Nehemia's death was a world shaking scene and is what I would change in the story. I rate this book 10/10 stars and recommend it to everyone who has read the first book!
-Alif, 8th grade, RAUC
Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
Throne of Glass is a fantasy novel about an 18 year old assassin named Celaena Sardothien who has been sent to be a slave in a salt mine. She is now competing to be the kings champion who is basically the king's assassin and she has many trials to go through and many people to compete against. I love how the aspect of magic and action plays out in the book. This book is really amazing and I would definitely recommend it. I would specifically recommend it to people who enjoy reading fantasy and high action novels. There is lots of magic and fictional creatures in this book, as well as action packed scenes. I also enjoyed that there is some romance in this novel but it isn't the main premise of the book. I rate this book 9 out of 10 stars. I enjoyed the book tremendously and definitely recommend it.
-Alif, 8th grade, RAUC
Throne of Glass is a fantasy novel about an 18 year old assassin named Celaena Sardothien who has been sent to be a slave in a salt mine. She is now competing to be the kings champion who is basically the king's assassin and she has many trials to go through and many people to compete against. I love how the aspect of magic and action plays out in the book. This book is really amazing and I would definitely recommend it. I would specifically recommend it to people who enjoy reading fantasy and high action novels. There is lots of magic and fictional creatures in this book, as well as action packed scenes. I also enjoyed that there is some romance in this novel but it isn't the main premise of the book. I rate this book 9 out of 10 stars. I enjoyed the book tremendously and definitely recommend it.
-Alif, 8th grade, RAUC
All Summer Long by Hope Larson
All Summer Long is a book about a girl named Bina who normally spends her summer vacation with her best friend, Austin. But this year he goes to soccer camp and she has to find ways to spend her time. The book is a graphic novel and about 169 pages. The book is full of jealousy, sadness, happiness, and is really easy to relate to.
Saffiya, 6th grade, VLUS
Saffiya, 6th grade, VLUS
Monday, June 25, 2018
Smitten Kitchen Every Day by Deb Perelman
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
First, I just want to say that I love Smitten Kitchen. It's an amazing blog, and me and my mom have found great, reliable recipes on it. And the book is exactly the same. There are great photos, sometimes funny blurbs that go before each recipe, easy to follow instructions that make even marzipan petit four cake seem simple, and delicious food (especially the desserts, though that might just be my sweet tooth talking). If you love to cook, you will love this book.
- Anaiya, 6th grade, CSUS
What Else is New?
I watched this great movie called Leap with my friend. It had great animation, an engaging plot, and funny and relatable characters. There were times where I was genuinely concerned or scared for characters, times when I went "Awwww!", and times that I laughed out loud. It was a really good movie and I highly recommend it.
- Anaiya, 6th grade, CSUS
Sweet by Valerie Gordon
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to bake and cook sweets. It has everything from elaborate celebration desserts to jams and marmalades. Everything in the book is fairly fancy, and some things are difficult to make, but everything is explained well, and there are "make your own" pages, where you can take different pieces of the desserts in the chapter and combine them into your own. Plus, the photos are beautiful.
Anaiya, 6th grade, CSUS
Brave by Svetlana Chmakova
What character(s) in this book would you most and least like to be friends with, and why?
The author of Brave, Svetlana Chmakova, wrote Awkward, one of my favorite graphic novels that I highly recommend. If you haven't read it, you totally should.
Brave is focused on the friend of the main character from Awkward (Penelope). Jensen is a daydreamer who hopes to help save the world someday. He thinks of each day at middle school like a video game, him trying to survive the day, avoiding game bosses and other challenges. Friends are a struggle for Jensen, even finding a partner in class. Hoping to be accepted, he does jobs for the school newspaper's dynamic duo, Jenny and Akilah. Jensen becomes sucked into one of their social-experiment projects. Because though he doesn't quite realize it, Jensen is being bullied.
A character in Brave that I would NOT want to be friends with is Jensen's friend Tessa. Tessa is mean in a teasing way, making "jokes" at other people's expenses. And it makes Jensen uncomfortable. One example of this is on page 132, when they're discussing costumes. And Tessa says, of Jensen "'He's gonna go as a sunspot, duh, dresses in, like, a garbage bag.'" Everyone laughs, and then someone probably Tessa says "'He's totally big enough to block out the sun.'" That is incredibly mean. Why would you say that to your friend?
- Anaiya, 6th grade, CSUS
P.S. I Like You by Katie West
This book is about an amateur musician who writes on her desk to a mystery person.
I liked the book because of the mystery -- at first but around the middle of the book I knew who the mystery writer was almost instantly which didn't make reading it very fun. I like being kept on my toes. The book was good but not a very exciting so I would not suggest it if you like mystery. I would if you like romance.
- Saffiya, 6th grade, VLUS
What Else Is New?
Right now I'm reading Tuck Everlasting By: Natalie Babbitt
Its about a girl who has the choice to live forever, more details after I finish
- Saffiya, 7th grade, VLUS
George by Alex Gino
I liked this book because it had a lot of heart. The main character, George is quiet and keeps to herself because shes worried about people finding out that George is a girl and her name is Melissa. She was born in the body of a boy but born in the heart as a girl. If I could be any character in the book I would be Melissa's best friend who even though she was slightly in shock about finding out George was Melissa, bounced right back and helped her friend let everyone know who she truly was.
- Saffiya, 7th grade, VLUS
Wonder by R. J. Palicio
Wonder is a 5 star book about Auggie, a kid with a facial deformity.
He starts middle school with no friends. Just some bullies and a maybe friend. As he goes throughout the school year, he gains friends, happiness, and an award at school.
Some characters to watch out for: Julian is not all that he seems. He may seem to be the bully, but if you think that he is all mean, read Auggie and Me. That's a good book with Julian's perspective in it. I still don't agree with Julian though.
Wonder is a good book for anyone.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
He starts middle school with no friends. Just some bullies and a maybe friend. As he goes throughout the school year, he gains friends, happiness, and an award at school.
Some characters to watch out for: Julian is not all that he seems. He may seem to be the bully, but if you think that he is all mean, read Auggie and Me. That's a good book with Julian's perspective in it. I still don't agree with Julian though.
Wonder is a good book for anyone.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
Comics Squad Detention by multiple authors
In this new comics squad, it's DETENTION.
The most feared of all places in school, detention is where many in this book will go. Some may try to find detention. Some may find refuge in the desks at detention. Most will get sent to detention.
I don't think you would like to be in their shoes (or would you?)
They find crystals, friends, doodles, math skills, and antimatter ooze.
Hopefully they get out of detention.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
The most feared of all places in school, detention is where many in this book will go. Some may try to find detention. Some may find refuge in the desks at detention. Most will get sent to detention.
I don't think you would like to be in their shoes (or would you?)
They find crystals, friends, doodles, math skills, and antimatter ooze.
Hopefully they get out of detention.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
Comics Squad Lunch! by multiple authors
It's another Comics Squad Book.
A bunch of compiled stories, lunch happens.
1. Ellie has a crush on a cute boy named Franklin, and is allergic to nuts. She eats a chocolate bar.
2. Snoopy causes havoc during lunch. He eats all of the cookies.
3. Babymouse's lunch table is stolen. She competes in dodgeball for her lunch table.
4. Little Jimmy solves the case of the missing time machine. It involves a lock pick, a flamethrower, a dinosaur egg, and some annoying peeps.
5. Pikput and Cullen find friendship through ice and mold.
6. Lucy and Andy, the neanderthals, make a soup out of rabbits. The rabbits are hard to catch, and the soup is better than it looks.
7. A nonfiction story is told where, during WWII, a japanese hunter killer sub is sunken by potatoes.
8. Lunch Girl finds many new friends, a justice is served by the current lunch ladies.
Read to find out more, although I may have spoiled too much.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
A bunch of compiled stories, lunch happens.
1. Ellie has a crush on a cute boy named Franklin, and is allergic to nuts. She eats a chocolate bar.
2. Snoopy causes havoc during lunch. He eats all of the cookies.
3. Babymouse's lunch table is stolen. She competes in dodgeball for her lunch table.
4. Little Jimmy solves the case of the missing time machine. It involves a lock pick, a flamethrower, a dinosaur egg, and some annoying peeps.
5. Pikput and Cullen find friendship through ice and mold.
6. Lucy and Andy, the neanderthals, make a soup out of rabbits. The rabbits are hard to catch, and the soup is better than it looks.
7. A nonfiction story is told where, during WWII, a japanese hunter killer sub is sunken by potatoes.
8. Lunch Girl finds many new friends, a justice is served by the current lunch ladies.
Read to find out more, although I may have spoiled too much.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
The Authorative Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson
The Authoritative Calvin and Hobbes is a collection of Calvin and Hobbes. It includes Cartoons from Yukon Ho! and Weirdos From Another Planet!
In this collection, many things happen. Calvin secedes from his family and sets off for the Yukon, only to miss his home and leave Hobbes in the woods. Calvin goes away from the world since it's too polluted, and he goes to Mars where he finds a martian. On each of these adventures, he forgets to pack a map and food. Calvin invents the transmogrifier gun, and then fights Hobbes with it.
As usual, Calvin fights with Susie, Hobbes, and his mother. And Spaceman Spiff is back - and still not paying attention in class.
It's a good book for those who enjoy humor.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
In this collection, many things happen. Calvin secedes from his family and sets off for the Yukon, only to miss his home and leave Hobbes in the woods. Calvin goes away from the world since it's too polluted, and he goes to Mars where he finds a martian. On each of these adventures, he forgets to pack a map and food. Calvin invents the transmogrifier gun, and then fights Hobbes with it.
As usual, Calvin fights with Susie, Hobbes, and his mother. And Spaceman Spiff is back - and still not paying attention in class.
It's a good book for those who enjoy humor.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
The Baby-Sitters Club Claudia and Mean Janine by Raina Telgemier and Ann M. Martin
The Baby-Sitters Club Claudia and Mean Janine by Raina Telgemier and Ann M. Martin is an amazing book about sisters, Claudia and Janine, who hate each other. At one point in the book, a tragic event occurs which makes both Claudia and Janine come together to fix the event. In this whole book, the tragic event also makes Claudia learn many things about Janine and vice versa.
- Anais, 7th grade, Amigos
The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #1 by Ryan North
If you could be or had to become one character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?
Tippy-Toe! Tippy-Toe is Doreen/ Squirrel Girls squirrel friend. She is kind of the leader of her tree squirrel group, and even their enemies, the ground squirrels respect her. She is always helping SG, fights robots, and goes to NYC to- wait I won’t spoil it :). T-Toe is my favorite!
- 7th grader, VLUS
Tippy-Toe! Tippy-Toe is Doreen/ Squirrel Girls squirrel friend. She is kind of the leader of her tree squirrel group, and even their enemies, the ground squirrels respect her. She is always helping SG, fights robots, and goes to NYC to- wait I won’t spoil it :). T-Toe is my favorite!
- 7th grader, VLUS
Counting by 7's by Holly Goldberg Sloan
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 really despised the part when they realize tat the mom has cancer and when Willow's parents die in a car crash and I hate how unfair the world is like how Mai and her family are poor but they're some of the nicest people in the story. Despite the beginning and middle of the book, the story was very, well let's just say, happy. I loved the part at the ending when Willow finds out who her new foster parents were.
Let's just say that this book was extremely well written and has it's moments when things can get sad but it also has it's moments when you just want to jump up and celebrate.
- 6th grader, International School of Boston
I really despised the part when they realize tat the mom has cancer and when Willow's parents die in a car crash and I hate how unfair the world is like how Mai and her family are poor but they're some of the nicest people in the story. Despite the beginning and middle of the book, the story was very, well let's just say, happy. I loved the part at the ending when Willow finds out who her new foster parents were.
Let's just say that this book was extremely well written and has it's moments when things can get sad but it also has it's moments when you just want to jump up and celebrate.
- 6th grader, International School of Boston
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?
I recommend the book to anyone who likes a bit of mystery and adventure cause that's mostly what the book is about. It has a lot of surprises and as you read the last two chapters you will feel your heart sink and you will most likely feel terribly sorry for Sal and her family. However I don't recommend this book to someone who do not see some sort of story developing in their head or who would not feel in the least bit sorry for Sal. This is a breathtaking story that will take your mind on an adventure of a lifetime.
Like a bite of dark-chocolate, this story is rich and you will be able to see how much effort was put into this book.
- 6th grader, International School of Boston
I recommend the book to anyone who likes a bit of mystery and adventure cause that's mostly what the book is about. It has a lot of surprises and as you read the last two chapters you will feel your heart sink and you will most likely feel terribly sorry for Sal and her family. However I don't recommend this book to someone who do not see some sort of story developing in their head or who would not feel in the least bit sorry for Sal. This is a breathtaking story that will take your mind on an adventure of a lifetime.
Like a bite of dark-chocolate, this story is rich and you will be able to see how much effort was put into this book.
- 6th grader, International School of Boston
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Hadden
If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?
The main character in this book Christopher, is very different (in a good way) from the stereotypical main character, in that he always tells the truth, is very smart, but also has problems expressing his emotions and communicating with other people. Where you trying to create a unique and realistic character when you wrote this book?
This book and Twilight are parts of an amazing program that are going on currently on PBS called The Great American Read. Basically the top one hundred most loved books in America have been selected by surveys and compiled into a list. I suggest reading at least one book from the list (there are many good books but I would have to suggest Harry Potter), and if you can't find a good book just search up the Great American Read or go to the PBS website and click on The Great American Read,
- 8th grader, VLUS
Enchantress of Numbers by Jennifer Chiaverini
What would you want to see happen to the characters after this book (or the last of the series) ends?
This book tells the inspirational story of Ada Lovelace, a famed mathematician who broke down gender barriers with her work. It is told from the perspective of Ada Lovelace, but unlike what people expect, the book was actually quite interesting. I hoped that after the section of the story that is told, Lovelace might have been able to expand her work on her flying machine but unfortunately, (spoiler alert), now long after the events that are described in the book came to take place Lovelace died at age 36.
- 8th grader, VLUS
Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai
Inside Out & Back Again is about a 10/11 year old girl named Ha. This book is in verse and it takes place in Vietnam. Some of the words in this book are Vietnamese that make it harder to read, but if you look around the text, you can get the idea. Ha has 3 brothers, brother Khoi, Vu, and Quang, they do have a mother, but their dad was in the navy and went missing. They don't know if their dad is still alive or not. Their family goes through lots of challenges throughout the war. Ha loves her papaya tree and doesn't want to leave it, but they have to move to America, away from the war. They get sent to Alabama and get sponsored. There, they live their lives. Ha has a hard time in school, but will she get through it? Is their father still alive? How will they get through the Struggles?
Read this book and Find out! Don't forget have fun reading it!
Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai
- Kayla, 6th grade, VLUS
What Else Is New?
Another really good book I read about slavery is Chains by: Laurie Halse Anderson which tells the story of Isabel and her younger sister Ruth as they attempt to free themselves from their owners.
- 8th grader, VLUS
- 8th grader, VLUS
Dread Nation by Justina Ireland
Describe a part of the book that made you feel something strongly (i.e. something that made you cry, laugh, get really angry, etc.).
A part of this book that provoked a strong emotional response was the mistreatment of the main character, and the dehumanization of all of the African American and Native American characters by the evil characters in this story. This book (which is set just after the civil war),also made me realize the whole extent of the aftermath of slavery, and the senseless pain that was and is inflicted due only to something one can not control: their skin colour.
- 8th grader, VLUS
The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradly
The War that Saved my Life is about a girl named Ada that has a twisted right foot. Her mom thinks Ada's foot is ugly and wouldn't get it fixed and she also wouldn't let Ada out of the flat. Ada's little brother Jamie is normal, their mom only lets Jamie out. But during the war, their mom sends Jamie to be evacuated, leaving Ada behind. Ada secretly, tries to learn how to walk on her bad foot, and Ada goes with Jamie secretly to be evacuated. They meet their new owner for the evacuation, the owner's name is Susan. They all struggle living with each other, but later on they get along.
Ada also learns to ride horses, their owner owns a pony named Butter.
This book is a Historical Fiction book.
Will their mom come back for them? Find out in this book!
Will they survive the war? Find out in this book!
Read this book and have fun!
- Kayla, 6th grade, VLUS
Ada also learns to ride horses, their owner owns a pony named Butter.
This book is a Historical Fiction book.
Will their mom come back for them? Find out in this book!
Will they survive the war? Find out in this book!
Read this book and have fun!
- Kayla, 6th grade, VLUS
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
As somebody who is very much into fantasy, I first picked up this book because of the publicity it has received. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this book as much as some others and would not recommend it. I found this book to be lacking as there is no clear plot, and the characters are so stereotypical that this was a very boring read. Also the phrasing was not very developed and the story itself held no morals, which I think is an essential part of any book.
- 8th grade, VLUS
As somebody who is very much into fantasy, I first picked up this book because of the publicity it has received. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this book as much as some others and would not recommend it. I found this book to be lacking as there is no clear plot, and the characters are so stereotypical that this was a very boring read. Also the phrasing was not very developed and the story itself held no morals, which I think is an essential part of any book.
- 8th grade, VLUS
Bewitching by Alex Flinn
If you could ask the author/illustrator of this book one question, what would it be?
This book featured a lot of unexpected twists and has a very unconventional outlook on traditional fairy tales. I especially admired the unique outlook on the witch in this story Kendra, but I feel like the ending was very cliché and the so called "evil character" was very stereotypical. Why did you choose to have a more classical ending?
Another good book by this author is Beastly, and if you have not read it I suggest reading it before you read Bewitched.
- 8th grade, VLUS
The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang
If you could be or had to become one character in the book, who would you choose to be and why?
Hi! My name is Maimouna and the book that I have suggested is the prince and the dressmaker. This book is about a prince who sneaks out every night and dresses like a woman. He doesn't want anybody to find out especially his parents because he is worried they will disown him, but the only person who does know is his dressmaker.
Will he get caught? Or will he not get caught? Read the book to find out.
- Maimouna, 7th grade, RAUS
The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
"The War That Saved My Life" is an AWESOME book! If you did MCBA 2017-2018 you've probably read this book and you probably know that it won the MCBA award. If you haven't read it, you should!!! If you like historical fiction and don't mind kind of sad books you will like this book. It takes place during world war two and the book is about a girl named Ada and her little brother Jamie who live in a tiny apartment in London with their mother. Ada's mother never lets her go outside of the house because Ada has a clubfoot and she thinks it is too ugly to be shown in public. When there are warnings that London will be bombed Ada's mom wants to send Jamie away to a safer town where he won't be hurt. Ada escapes with him and together they have to begin a new life in a new town. This book is amazing and you should read it!!! :D :) :}
There is also a second book called "The War I Finally Won" which is by the same person. It's also really good.
- 6th grade, VLUS
"The War That Saved My Life" is an AWESOME book! If you did MCBA 2017-2018 you've probably read this book and you probably know that it won the MCBA award. If you haven't read it, you should!!! If you like historical fiction and don't mind kind of sad books you will like this book. It takes place during world war two and the book is about a girl named Ada and her little brother Jamie who live in a tiny apartment in London with their mother. Ada's mother never lets her go outside of the house because Ada has a clubfoot and she thinks it is too ugly to be shown in public. When there are warnings that London will be bombed Ada's mom wants to send Jamie away to a safer town where he won't be hurt. Ada escapes with him and together they have to begin a new life in a new town. This book is amazing and you should read it!!! :D :) :}
There is also a second book called "The War I Finally Won" which is by the same person. It's also really good.
- 6th grade, VLUS
Dance of shadows by Yelena Black
Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?
Well this is a great book and for about the first half of the book it does not talk much about anything supernatural, or related to magic, but does drop hints. I think this is a great book for those who like
fantaesy and dancing, specifically ballet. And the main character is wonderful and there are times when she practically melts into the music, but it happens only when she gets the steps right, and she can open special doorways.
Venessa is the main character and goes to New york ballet Academy. Though she is an amazing dancer her heart was not into it. The only reason she decides to go is in search for her sister who had once gone to NYBA and then jus disappeared and No one knows what happened. I mean that's what everyone says.
- Amrin, 7th grade, VLUS
Well this is a great book and for about the first half of the book it does not talk much about anything supernatural, or related to magic, but does drop hints. I think this is a great book for those who like
fantaesy and dancing, specifically ballet. And the main character is wonderful and there are times when she practically melts into the music, but it happens only when she gets the steps right, and she can open special doorways.
Venessa is the main character and goes to New york ballet Academy. Though she is an amazing dancer her heart was not into it. The only reason she decides to go is in search for her sister who had once gone to NYBA and then jus disappeared and No one knows what happened. I mean that's what everyone says.
- Amrin, 7th grade, VLUS
P.S. I Hate it Here! by Diane Falanga
P.S. I hate it here is a collection of letters kids set to people when in camp. They sent letters about injuries, doing cool things, but mostly picking them up. They all missed their parents and some even hated camp.
This is a good book for you if you can relate.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
This is a good book for you if you can relate.
- Bruce, 8th grade, CSUS
What else is new?
I'm off to my first experience in overnight camp! I'm excited and I need help packing otherwise I'm gonna end up packing a giant lamp. (I'm not very good at packing. For anything)
- Ana, 7th grade, Amigos
- Ana, 7th grade, Amigos
Ghosts by Raina Telgmeier
The book "Ghosts" is about this family, especially the two girls, who are moving to a strange, mysterious town because the younger sister has a sickness and the air is better for her where they're going. In this town they find this boy who tells them that the place is full of ghosts that come in Dia de los Muertos. The older sister, Cat, doesn't believe him at all, while the younger sister, Maya, is instantly engulfed in the idea of ghosts roaming the streets. It's a really great book, and it's a relatively quick read! I would recommend it to pretty much anyone! Out of all the characters in the book, I would rather become Cat, the oldest sister. I really like her personality, and how she dealt with moving and a strange boy from next door talking to her sister about ghosts is very relatable for me because that is definately how I would react.
- Ana, 7th grade, Amigos
- Ana, 7th grade, Amigos
Olive and the Backstage Ghost by Michelle Schusterman
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?
In Olive and the Backstage Ghost, I found Olive's mother more interesting than Olive herself. Her mother had been an amazing singer and actress, but after a mortifying performance in which her voice was off-key and strained, Laurel Preiss's career ended. Humiliated, she turned her attention to her daughter's career, and took control of everything. Laurel wasn't trying to help Olive, though, she was trying to give Olive's career the happy ending her's didn't have. In the book, Olive is terrified of her mother, but there isn't much information given about her. What I would like to know more about is her mother's career, her ambitions. I want to know more about the struggles she faced as she became more famous. I want to know how she was raised, and if that had anything to do with her steel grip on Olive. I want to know what her final performance was like, the one that ended her career. If I was to write a book about her, I would start from the very beginning, telling the reader her entire history: her ambitions, her friendships, her struggles, etc. I hope that the author writes another book about Olive's mother, because I found Laurel Preiss a very interesting, underexplained character.
- Anaiya, 6th grade, CSUS
In Olive and the Backstage Ghost, I found Olive's mother more interesting than Olive herself. Her mother had been an amazing singer and actress, but after a mortifying performance in which her voice was off-key and strained, Laurel Preiss's career ended. Humiliated, she turned her attention to her daughter's career, and took control of everything. Laurel wasn't trying to help Olive, though, she was trying to give Olive's career the happy ending her's didn't have. In the book, Olive is terrified of her mother, but there isn't much information given about her. What I would like to know more about is her mother's career, her ambitions. I want to know more about the struggles she faced as she became more famous. I want to know how she was raised, and if that had anything to do with her steel grip on Olive. I want to know what her final performance was like, the one that ended her career. If I was to write a book about her, I would start from the very beginning, telling the reader her entire history: her ambitions, her friendships, her struggles, etc. I hope that the author writes another book about Olive's mother, because I found Laurel Preiss a very interesting, underexplained character.
- Anaiya, 6th grade, CSUS
Saturday, June 16, 2018
Let the countdown begin!
The us,reading blog "submit your post" button will go live on Monday, June 25th, so get your To Read piles ready... We can't wait to see all of the awesome things you're reading!
- The CPL Librarians
- The CPL Librarians
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