http://www.goodreads.com/review/list_rss/1125613 en-US Mon, 18 Aug 2008 02:58:39 -0700 60 http://www.goodreads.com/ 200 41 http://www.goodreads.com/images/layout/gr_logo.gif 30435415 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 02:58:39 -0700
It would seem that Claire Danvers's life couldn't get any worse, what with living in a college town that is also inhabited by vampires who wouldn't think twice about killing her, and having her parents pressuring her to move back in with them when she already lives with her three best friends.

But when Mr. Bishop arrives, things turn positively deadly.

No one's really sure what Mr. Bishop wants -- all they know is that he's more powerful than anyone, possibly even Amelie, and he lacks any good intentions. Everyone is on their guard.

Soon, everyone is buzzing about the upcoming formal ball, and all the humans are clamoring for invites, even Claire and Eve. But this is one party that the breathing might want to pass up.

FEAST OF FOOLS is an exciting, fast-paced, and chilling thriller. Ms. Caine has a real knack for combining a headstrong heroine, nicely creepy happenings, and a dash of romance and intrigue to bring about a knockout novel that'll stun, spellbind, and utterly captivate readers. There's a twist around every corner, and a cliffhanger that will leave readers
desperate for more in this wonderful series that's reminiscent of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

A word of caution: Once you start into THE MORGANVILLE VAMPIRES series, it's impossible to let go.
]]>
author: Rachel Caine
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2008
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/18/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by The Compulsive Reader for TeensReadToo.com

It would seem that Claire Danvers's life couldn't get any worse, what with living in a college town that is also inhabited by vampires who wouldn't think twice about killing her, and having her parents pressuring her to move back in with them when she already lives with her three best friends.

But when Mr. Bishop arrives, things turn positively deadly.

No one's really sure what Mr. Bishop wants -- all they know is that he's more powerful than anyone, possibly even Amelie, and he lacks any good intentions. Everyone is on their guard.

Soon, everyone is buzzing about the upcoming formal ball, and all the humans are clamoring for invites, even Claire and Eve. But this is one party that the breathing might want to pass up.

FEAST OF FOOLS is an exciting, fast-paced, and chilling thriller. Ms. Caine has a real knack for combining a headstrong heroine, nicely creepy happenings, and a dash of romance and intrigue to bring about a knockout novel that'll stun, spellbind, and utterly captivate readers. There's a twist around every corner, and a cliffhanger that will leave readers
desperate for more in this wonderful series that's reminiscent of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

A word of caution: Once you start into THE MORGANVILLE VAMPIRES series, it's impossible to let go.

]]> 30434206 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 01:11:38 -0700
Two years ago, I tried to write this book. Yes, I really did mean to say "write" instead of "read." I was determined to write a book set in a future where misuse of Earth's resources along with escalating international tensions had resulted in making the planet uninhabitable, forcing humanity outwards to the moon and Mars. I wanted to write a book about what it might be like for teenagers who had never lived on Earth to understand their heritage. What would the first generation to live without Earth look like, and what would they feel about the planet their parents had left?

By examining the main characters of this novel, Gatuskin has achieved what I sought out to do and more. Her story begins with Fasha, a teenage girl who's grown up on Mars and has never stepped foot outside of a climate-controlled dome in her life. When her parents decide to take a vacation to Earth, she's excited about the prospect, but also uncertain about what to expect. She and her family are joined at the last minute by the son of a family friend, Alex, and he and Fasha immediately hit it off.

As part of Alex's quest to reconnect with his Scottish heritage, he and Fasha convince her parents to allow them to visit Scotland while on Earth, despite the fact that all of Great Britain is covered by a mysterious mutated vine, akin to rock ivy, that spread as a result of a fuel spill before Earth was evacuated. However, there's more to this vine than anyone suspects, and more to Earth's history than the textbooks have passed on. Alex and Fasha quickly get pulled into an adventure that's more magical than scientific, so although the story begins in a sci-fi setting, it eventually transitions into a mode of storytelling more common in fantasy.

I enjoy both genres thoroughly, and Gatuskin's unique blend of the two makes for a highly engaging read. I found myself savoring the first hundred pages, in which Gatuskin's portrayal of Fasha and Alex's first visit to Earth is nostalgic and contemplative without being overly sentimental. The overarching plot was rather complex, so that the middle felt slow, and the end was confusing because so many loose ends were tied up by the introduction of new points of view. Readers should not expect to understand even the book's title for some time. However, the story's real power comes from the author's inspired understanding of different characters' relationships with humanity's first home, and the meaning of Earth when man can live amongst the stars.
]]>
author: Zelda Leah Gatuskin
name: Jennifer
average rating: 5.00
book published: 2000
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/18/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Candace Cunard for TeensReadToo.com

Two years ago, I tried to write this book. Yes, I really did mean to say "write" instead of "read." I was determined to write a book set in a future where misuse of Earth's resources along with escalating international tensions had resulted in making the planet uninhabitable, forcing humanity outwards to the moon and Mars. I wanted to write a book about what it might be like for teenagers who had never lived on Earth to understand their heritage. What would the first generation to live without Earth look like, and what would they feel about the planet their parents had left?

By examining the main characters of this novel, Gatuskin has achieved what I sought out to do and more. Her story begins with Fasha, a teenage girl who's grown up on Mars and has never stepped foot outside of a climate-controlled dome in her life. When her parents decide to take a vacation to Earth, she's excited about the prospect, but also uncertain about what to expect. She and her family are joined at the last minute by the son of a family friend, Alex, and he and Fasha immediately hit it off.

As part of Alex's quest to reconnect with his Scottish heritage, he and Fasha convince her parents to allow them to visit Scotland while on Earth, despite the fact that all of Great Britain is covered by a mysterious mutated vine, akin to rock ivy, that spread as a result of a fuel spill before Earth was evacuated. However, there's more to this vine than anyone suspects, and more to Earth's history than the textbooks have passed on. Alex and Fasha quickly get pulled into an adventure that's more magical than scientific, so although the story begins in a sci-fi setting, it eventually transitions into a mode of storytelling more common in fantasy.

I enjoy both genres thoroughly, and Gatuskin's unique blend of the two makes for a highly engaging read. I found myself savoring the first hundred pages, in which Gatuskin's portrayal of Fasha and Alex's first visit to Earth is nostalgic and contemplative without being overly sentimental. The overarching plot was rather complex, so that the middle felt slow, and the end was confusing because so many loose ends were tied up by the introduction of new points of view. Readers should not expect to understand even the book's title for some time. However, the story's real power comes from the author's inspired understanding of different characters' relationships with humanity's first home, and the meaning of Earth when man can live amongst the stars.

]]> 30433854 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:52:13 -0700
There's a tree that stands watch over the crossroads of County Route 13 and Connecticut State Highway 31. There's a memorial on the tree. Someone leaves a dozen fresh roses there every Monday. And the tree is at the back edge of Zack Jennings's new yard.

Zack, his father, and his new step-mother have left the city and moved to Connecticut. Zack lost his mother to cancer, and now that his father has remarried, the family is making a new start in Zack's father's hometown. They have a brand new house, Zack got a new dog, Zipper, and things with his step-mom might actually be okay.

But there's something strange going on in the town. Zack has a new friend, Davy. They have great adventures together, but it always seems like Zack is the one doing the hard work while Davy comes up with the plans. Judy, Zack's step-mom, gets a flat tire on the deserted highway and a Greyhound employee comes to offer aide. Though like with Davy, he can tell her how to fix it but he just can't do the work himself.

At the same time, the 50th-anniversary of a horrific bus accident at the intersection is about to occur. At the heart of the accident is Clint Eberhart. Trying to finish business with his first wife, the bus goes off the road and bursts into flames. The Thunderbird that Clint was driving smashes into the same tree that now holds a memorial dedicated to him.

Through the shrine that is kept at the tree, all the participants of that awful night fifty years ago are kept bound to the earth. It seems Zack has been the one chosen to help them release their souls. The only problem -- Zack doesn't know he's been chosen, nor does he even know that the spirits exist. At least he doesn't in the beginning...

THE CROSSROADS is a heart-pounding, page-turning ghost story that will keep even the strong-willed awake long after the last page has been turned. Clint Eberhart is pure evil, and the spirit and perseverance of one young boy is all it takes to face off against him. The book flows quickly with short chapters to keep the action constantly moving. The book is easy enough for most readers, but because of the ghosts and some of the scary content, I selected the older age group as a recommendation for readers.
]]>
author: Chris Grabenstein
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2008
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/18/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Jaglvr for TeensReadToo.com

There's a tree that stands watch over the crossroads of County Route 13 and Connecticut State Highway 31. There's a memorial on the tree. Someone leaves a dozen fresh roses there every Monday. And the tree is at the back edge of Zack Jennings's new yard.

Zack, his father, and his new step-mother have left the city and moved to Connecticut. Zack lost his mother to cancer, and now that his father has remarried, the family is making a new start in Zack's father's hometown. They have a brand new house, Zack got a new dog, Zipper, and things with his step-mom might actually be okay.

But there's something strange going on in the town. Zack has a new friend, Davy. They have great adventures together, but it always seems like Zack is the one doing the hard work while Davy comes up with the plans. Judy, Zack's step-mom, gets a flat tire on the deserted highway and a Greyhound employee comes to offer aide. Though like with Davy, he can tell her how to fix it but he just can't do the work himself.

At the same time, the 50th-anniversary of a horrific bus accident at the intersection is about to occur. At the heart of the accident is Clint Eberhart. Trying to finish business with his first wife, the bus goes off the road and bursts into flames. The Thunderbird that Clint was driving smashes into the same tree that now holds a memorial dedicated to him.

Through the shrine that is kept at the tree, all the participants of that awful night fifty years ago are kept bound to the earth. It seems Zack has been the one chosen to help them release their souls. The only problem -- Zack doesn't know he's been chosen, nor does he even know that the spirits exist. At least he doesn't in the beginning...

THE CROSSROADS is a heart-pounding, page-turning ghost story that will keep even the strong-willed awake long after the last page has been turned. Clint Eberhart is pure evil, and the spirit and perseverance of one young boy is all it takes to face off against him. The book flows quickly with short chapters to keep the action constantly moving. The book is easy enough for most readers, but because of the ghosts and some of the scary content, I selected the older age group as a recommendation for readers.

]]> 30433208 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:28:11 -0700
The cover pic should be enough to interest most YA readers; however, adults, don't panic, the subject matter is quite tame.

Vince and Raedawn have been riding the same bus to school their entire lives. There is a social seating hierarchy involved in most bus riding, and theirs is no exception. There are the back seat riders - usually the cool kids, and the front seat riders - usually the less secure or nerdy type.

The middle rows can be easily ignored and that is just the problem when Dune suddenly stops riding the bus. There are only two people who even notice that the quiet loner has not gotten on the bus since the first day of school, and they also seem to be the only ones concerned.

Raedawn convinces Vince that something needs to be done. They start asking questions - of the bus driver, the school counselor, and then the administration. No one knows anything and the tendency is to brush the whole issue under the rug. Finally, Raedawn enlists the help of her Uncle Dave, and long-hidden secrets begin to emerge.

MIDDLE ROW provides a mystery that unfolds at a fast pace in this 100-page book. Readers will easily become intrigued by the missing Dune, as well as the personal stories connected to Vince, Raedawn, and Uncle Dave. An added criminal element also helps hold the attention of most readers.
]]>
author: Sylvia Olsen
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/18/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Sally Kruger aka "Readingjunky" for TeensReadToo.com

The cover pic should be enough to interest most YA readers; however, adults, don't panic, the subject matter is quite tame.

Vince and Raedawn have been riding the same bus to school their entire lives. There is a social seating hierarchy involved in most bus riding, and theirs is no exception. There are the back seat riders - usually the cool kids, and the front seat riders - usually the less secure or nerdy type.

The middle rows can be easily ignored and that is just the problem when Dune suddenly stops riding the bus. There are only two people who even notice that the quiet loner has not gotten on the bus since the first day of school, and they also seem to be the only ones concerned.

Raedawn convinces Vince that something needs to be done. They start asking questions - of the bus driver, the school counselor, and then the administration. No one knows anything and the tendency is to brush the whole issue under the rug. Finally, Raedawn enlists the help of her Uncle Dave, and long-hidden secrets begin to emerge.

MIDDLE ROW provides a mystery that unfolds at a fast pace in this 100-page book. Readers will easily become intrigued by the missing Dune, as well as the personal stories connected to Vince, Raedawn, and Uncle Dave. An added criminal element also helps hold the attention of most readers.

]]> 30432574 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:16:47 -0700
After the Monroe family found Bunnicula in the movie theater, and all of the frenzy that came along with him, when they brought him home and things died down, normal is how Harold would describe their home. But just like what happened in the Adventures of Sherlock, Harold soon finds out that anything is subject to change. And tons of changes come his way.

Bunnicula seems to have lost all of "the sparkle in his eyes" and his energy whenever Toby and Pete take him out of his cage to play. Although oblivious at first, Harold begins to worry that something is wrong with Bunnicula. Could he be sick?

Chester knows for certain that it has nothing to do with being sick; he is set on Bunnicula acting this way because he wants to cause trouble. Chester saw what Bunnicula had done before... sucking up all of the juices from the vegetables! Of course, Chester doesn't want Bunnicula to strike again, so his infamous plans are put into action.

On the side, the Monroe family is trying to save the movie theater, where they found Bunnicula, from being torn down, since it's a landmark in Centerville. Ironically, though, the last movie they will be playing is Dracula. Could this possibly have anything to do with why Bunnicula is acting weird?

It's up to Harold and Howie to crack the case, and to make sure Chester doesn't go too far -- or it just might be the end!

BUNNICULA STRIKES AGAIN! is a very entertaining sequel to the hit BUNNICULA. Once again, Harold writes and narrates the story, making the tale even more humorous. Fans of the first book will definitely want to sink their teeth into this one, especially if they want to know what Bunnicula and even Chester are up to now.
]]>
author: James Howe
name: Jennifer
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/18/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Randstostipher "tallnlankyrn" Nguyen for TeensReadToo.com

After the Monroe family found Bunnicula in the movie theater, and all of the frenzy that came along with him, when they brought him home and things died down, normal is how Harold would describe their home. But just like what happened in the Adventures of Sherlock, Harold soon finds out that anything is subject to change. And tons of changes come his way.

Bunnicula seems to have lost all of "the sparkle in his eyes" and his energy whenever Toby and Pete take him out of his cage to play. Although oblivious at first, Harold begins to worry that something is wrong with Bunnicula. Could he be sick?

Chester knows for certain that it has nothing to do with being sick; he is set on Bunnicula acting this way because he wants to cause trouble. Chester saw what Bunnicula had done before... sucking up all of the juices from the vegetables! Of course, Chester doesn't want Bunnicula to strike again, so his infamous plans are put into action.

On the side, the Monroe family is trying to save the movie theater, where they found Bunnicula, from being torn down, since it's a landmark in Centerville. Ironically, though, the last movie they will be playing is Dracula. Could this possibly have anything to do with why Bunnicula is acting weird?

It's up to Harold and Howie to crack the case, and to make sure Chester doesn't go too far -- or it just might be the end!

BUNNICULA STRIKES AGAIN! is a very entertaining sequel to the hit BUNNICULA. Once again, Harold writes and narrates the story, making the tale even more humorous. Fans of the first book will definitely want to sink their teeth into this one, especially if they want to know what Bunnicula and even Chester are up to now.

]]> 30431526 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 23:55:17 -0700
Keisha Martin just graduated from college with a business degree. She has a bright future ahead of her, but she is lost. She doesn't know who she is, and she doesn't have a relationship with God. Worse, she doesn't want a relationship with God right now...not until she finds herself, that is.

Keisha goes through a lot in her first year out of college. She experiments with a same-sex relationship, she deals with unemployment, she tries to discover her true feelings between two men in her life: one that is in jail and the other who got her best friend pregnant.

Along the way, she tries to figure out her relationship with God. She knows she has sinned, but God can forgive her. She just needs to forgive herself first.

Willie D. Spears, Jr. writes a very touching story about a girl who needs to discover herself in order to discover God. THE ULTIMATE DILEMMA is truly one to touch the heart, but it is sometimes difficult to focus on the story due to the many grammatical and spelling errors found frequently throughout.

Most readers will enjoy this story, but be forewarned that the journey may be rough.
]]>
author: Willie D. Spears
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Steph for TeensReadToo.com

Keisha Martin just graduated from college with a business degree. She has a bright future ahead of her, but she is lost. She doesn't know who she is, and she doesn't have a relationship with God. Worse, she doesn't want a relationship with God right now...not until she finds herself, that is.

Keisha goes through a lot in her first year out of college. She experiments with a same-sex relationship, she deals with unemployment, she tries to discover her true feelings between two men in her life: one that is in jail and the other who got her best friend pregnant.

Along the way, she tries to figure out her relationship with God. She knows she has sinned, but God can forgive her. She just needs to forgive herself first.

Willie D. Spears, Jr. writes a very touching story about a girl who needs to discover herself in order to discover God. THE ULTIMATE DILEMMA is truly one to touch the heart, but it is sometimes difficult to focus on the story due to the many grammatical and spelling errors found frequently throughout.

Most readers will enjoy this story, but be forewarned that the journey may be rough.

]]> 30430264 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 23:13:01 -0700
Reviewed by Margaret Waterman for TeensReadToo.com

The melody reached in. Touched me. Filled me. As if an invisible siphon leeched off the notes and chords with the urgency of needed breath. He slowed the piece, his long fingers curling and flattening on the ivory keys, his eyes closing, lashes pressed against his cheeks. The tune echoed off the empty walls with one final deep chord. When he opened his eyes, they locked on mine. His hands slid from the keys and into his lap.

`There can't be anything between us.'"


Eden, a senior at her high school, needs to take an elective. She signs up for Concert Choir, which has always been labeled as an "Easy A" class. She doesn't expect to even care about the class... Much less, truly enjoy it.

However, when Mr. James Christian, the beautiful, young, new teacher, enters the room, Eden's heart stops. Concert Choir will certainly be more than she ever bargained for. Soon, Choir becomes her favorite class, and not because of all the beautiful music. A forbidden attraction springs up between Eden and her teacher, which they must repress.

Eden, dealing with her distant father, terrible stepmother and the loss of her real mother ten years previously, has a lot going on in her life. She seeks solace through Mr. Christian when her school friends become less than helpful. After having experienced a more mature friendship with Mr. Christian, people that she used to hang out with (her ex-boyfriend, etc.), seem suddenly immature and uninteresting. He seems to understand her in an adult way that she has never experienced before.

The dynamic between Eden and her teacher is very interesting. Little details display the subtle changes in their relationship throughout the novel. The reader will slowly watch her change how she addresses him... He goes from Mr. Christian to James Christian to James. Yet, although he is only four years older than Eden, there is still the teacher-student gap that cannot be bridged.

A SEASON OF EDEN will have you wondering, hoping, and crossing your fingers, waiting for something to happen between the two. J.M. Warwick has written a book that can and will be enjoyed by all different kinds of teenagers.
]]>
author: JM Warwick
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2008
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Margaret Waterman for TeensReadToo.com

Reviewed by Margaret Waterman for TeensReadToo.com

The melody reached in. Touched me. Filled me. As if an invisible siphon leeched off the notes and chords with the urgency of needed breath. He slowed the piece, his long fingers curling and flattening on the ivory keys, his eyes closing, lashes pressed against his cheeks. The tune echoed off the empty walls with one final deep chord. When he opened his eyes, they locked on mine. His hands slid from the keys and into his lap.

`There can't be anything between us.'"


Eden, a senior at her high school, needs to take an elective. She signs up for Concert Choir, which has always been labeled as an "Easy A" class. She doesn't expect to even care about the class... Much less, truly enjoy it.

However, when Mr. James Christian, the beautiful, young, new teacher, enters the room, Eden's heart stops. Concert Choir will certainly be more than she ever bargained for. Soon, Choir becomes her favorite class, and not because of all the beautiful music. A forbidden attraction springs up between Eden and her teacher, which they must repress.

Eden, dealing with her distant father, terrible stepmother and the loss of her real mother ten years previously, has a lot going on in her life. She seeks solace through Mr. Christian when her school friends become less than helpful. After having experienced a more mature friendship with Mr. Christian, people that she used to hang out with (her ex-boyfriend, etc.), seem suddenly immature and uninteresting. He seems to understand her in an adult way that she has never experienced before.

The dynamic between Eden and her teacher is very interesting. Little details display the subtle changes in their relationship throughout the novel. The reader will slowly watch her change how she addresses him... He goes from Mr. Christian to James Christian to James. Yet, although he is only four years older than Eden, there is still the teacher-student gap that cannot be bridged.

A SEASON OF EDEN will have you wondering, hoping, and crossing your fingers, waiting for something to happen between the two. J.M. Warwick has written a book that can and will be enjoyed by all different kinds of teenagers.

]]> 30429388 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 22:48:11 -0700
Fifteen-year-old Leo North lived in Malonia with his younger brother, Stirling, and his grandmother. When Leo was five years old the monarchy was overthrown by the tyrant Lucien, and his parents fled to save their lives.

One night on his way home, Leo finds a mysterious book. The pages of the book are blank. But t soon the pages begin to fill, telling the story of two people in England, which is thought to be a fairy tale world. The pages only appear a few at a time, but Leo feels as though he already knows the story.

Leo, however, has no idea how much the story will come to play in his own country of Malonia.

THE EYES OF A KING is a book filled with fantasy, mystery, heartache, and love. Catherine Banner realistically depicts the thoughts and emotions of her teenage character, being as she is one herself. Leos' story seems to consist of one main theme -- loss. He is overcome with grief in much of the second half of the book, and it seemed as if empathy will continue to elude him.

Banner cleverly intertwines the stories of Malonia and England, and readers will revel in delight as the two stories come together. THE EYES OF A KING looks to be the beginning of an enchanting trilogy!
]]>
author: Catherine Banner
name: Jennifer
average rating: 3.29
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by The Story Siren for TeensReadToo.com

Fifteen-year-old Leo North lived in Malonia with his younger brother, Stirling, and his grandmother. When Leo was five years old the monarchy was overthrown by the tyrant Lucien, and his parents fled to save their lives.

One night on his way home, Leo finds a mysterious book. The pages of the book are blank. But t soon the pages begin to fill, telling the story of two people in England, which is thought to be a fairy tale world. The pages only appear a few at a time, but Leo feels as though he already knows the story.

Leo, however, has no idea how much the story will come to play in his own country of Malonia.

THE EYES OF A KING is a book filled with fantasy, mystery, heartache, and love. Catherine Banner realistically depicts the thoughts and emotions of her teenage character, being as she is one herself. Leos' story seems to consist of one main theme -- loss. He is overcome with grief in much of the second half of the book, and it seemed as if empathy will continue to elude him.

Banner cleverly intertwines the stories of Malonia and England, and readers will revel in delight as the two stories come together. THE EYES OF A KING looks to be the beginning of an enchanting trilogy!

]]> 30426542 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 21:42:50 -0700
For Serena Nelson, fitting in has never been easy, but it was possible.

A punk skater at heart, she had her own niche of like-minded friends who didn't mind that she was deaf. Serena's talents for lip reading are excellent, and allow her to live a pretty normal life.

When she moves to a small town, the preps in her new school see her talent as something to profit off of, and use Serena to get the juiciest gossip, enticing her with a membership into a secret sorority and the promise of fitting in.

But will her so-called friends go too far?

READ MY LIPS is an attention-grabbing page-turner. Serena is a smart and edgy narrator, who is quite normal despite her condition, and doesn't seek attention because of it. Her desire to fit in is something that we can all empathize with, and the lengths that she goes to do so are relatable. But it's how she fights back and overcomes those that belittle her that makes READ MY LIPS such a compelling and quick read.

The story is a delightful mix of complex characters, biting wit, and the angst that comes with making new friends.
]]>
author: Teri Brown
name: Jennifer
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by The Compulsive Reader for TeensReadToo.com

For Serena Nelson, fitting in has never been easy, but it was possible.

A punk skater at heart, she had her own niche of like-minded friends who didn't mind that she was deaf. Serena's talents for lip reading are excellent, and allow her to live a pretty normal life.

When she moves to a small town, the preps in her new school see her talent as something to profit off of, and use Serena to get the juiciest gossip, enticing her with a membership into a secret sorority and the promise of fitting in.

But will her so-called friends go too far?

READ MY LIPS is an attention-grabbing page-turner. Serena is a smart and edgy narrator, who is quite normal despite her condition, and doesn't seek attention because of it. Her desire to fit in is something that we can all empathize with, and the lengths that she goes to do so are relatable. But it's how she fights back and overcomes those that belittle her that makes READ MY LIPS such a compelling and quick read.

The story is a delightful mix of complex characters, biting wit, and the angst that comes with making new friends.

]]> 30415063 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 19:03:22 -0700
This book, directed at teens on the edge of the voting age, is brimming with essays by people who can't wait to tell you why you should vote. The "celebrated Americans" of the subtitle include everyone from athletes to movie stars to entertainment journalists, and for the most part, they all say the exact same thing: your vote really does count.

Some of the essays were better than others. The most enjoyable are those by authors who reveal something of their personal experience with voting and the political process. One contributor writes about the old lady he's seen working at polling places in his area for years; another writes about the vote her father cast for FDR that could have gotten him killed, since as a black man in the south he was practically forbidden from going to the polls.

My favorite essay in the entire book was Meg Cabot's defense of feminism, which she correctly defines as the desire for men and women to have equal rights, and which she points out has very little to do with wearing (or not wearing) bras, or shaving (or not shaving) one's legs.

For the most part, the contributors refrain from affiliating themselves with a specific political party, but a clever reader could easily decode their covert references to specific issues and make a good guess about where they stand. The contributors fall short when they begin to deliver platitudes, and at times the essays read like everything you've ever been told about why you should vote.

The main shortcoming of the book is hinted at by James Kotecki in his essay, "The Cynical Revolution." And that is: would someone who is actually apathetic about voting pick up and read this book? To this, I add a second question: if they did, would they be lucky enough to open up to one of the essays that's good enough to convince them to vote?

Overall, DECLARE YOURSELF is more likely to act as affirmation for those teens who've already made the decision to be voters. It does contain resources for people who think that voting means more than just casting a ballot on election day. The back of the book lists contact information for groups, organizations, political action committees, and others that readers may wish to contact. It also lists tips for getting involved in politics on the local level and offers a glossary of terms the aspiring politico needs to know.

It might not be the way to convince teens that voting is the cool thing to do, but it's reassuring to know that someone's making the effort to reach out to the age group with the lowest representation in the polls and get them to do something about it.
]]>
author: Declare Yourself
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Candace Cunard for TeensReadToo.com

This book, directed at teens on the edge of the voting age, is brimming with essays by people who can't wait to tell you why you should vote. The "celebrated Americans" of the subtitle include everyone from athletes to movie stars to entertainment journalists, and for the most part, they all say the exact same thing: your vote really does count.

Some of the essays were better than others. The most enjoyable are those by authors who reveal something of their personal experience with voting and the political process. One contributor writes about the old lady he's seen working at polling places in his area for years; another writes about the vote her father cast for FDR that could have gotten him killed, since as a black man in the south he was practically forbidden from going to the polls.

My favorite essay in the entire book was Meg Cabot's defense of feminism, which she correctly defines as the desire for men and women to have equal rights, and which she points out has very little to do with wearing (or not wearing) bras, or shaving (or not shaving) one's legs.

For the most part, the contributors refrain from affiliating themselves with a specific political party, but a clever reader could easily decode their covert references to specific issues and make a good guess about where they stand. The contributors fall short when they begin to deliver platitudes, and at times the essays read like everything you've ever been told about why you should vote.

The main shortcoming of the book is hinted at by James Kotecki in his essay, "The Cynical Revolution." And that is: would someone who is actually apathetic about voting pick up and read this book? To this, I add a second question: if they did, would they be lucky enough to open up to one of the essays that's good enough to convince them to vote?

Overall, DECLARE YOURSELF is more likely to act as affirmation for those teens who've already made the decision to be voters. It does contain resources for people who think that voting means more than just casting a ballot on election day. The back of the book lists contact information for groups, organizations, political action committees, and others that readers may wish to contact. It also lists tips for getting involved in politics on the local level and offers a glossary of terms the aspiring politico needs to know.

It might not be the way to convince teens that voting is the cool thing to do, but it's reassuring to know that someone's making the effort to reach out to the age group with the lowest representation in the polls and get them to do something about it.

]]> 30413788 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:45:47 -0700
SLEEPLESS is not your everyday piece of fluff. Those picking up SLEEPLESS thinking it's a typical teen summer romance will be quite surprised. I know I was! SLEEPLESS may just keep you up all night trying to avoid your dreams!

Okay, I admit it, there is romance in this book, but that's not all that it's about. There's far more action and suspense going on beyond the attraction between Trinity and Dan.

It's the beginning of July and Trinity's best friend, Coral, is about to leave for soccer camp. It's the summer before they start college, and Coral has given Trinity an assignment for the remainder of the summer. Trinity is usually found in black. Coral tasks her with buying a BLUE dress during the summer, a promise to get out more, and to actually go out on a date. Trinity has no idea how she'll accomplish any of these, but she vows to keep her promise.

Coral leaves for camp and Trinity's mother leaves for a long-anticipated art trip to Europe. That leaves Trinity alone. And then the dreams start to come. Trinity has the unwanted media name "Dream Girl" stemming from the fact that others come to her in her dreams. A young girl, Kiri, came to her over a year ago. She asked for help, but in the end, Trinity and the cops were unable to save Kiri before it was too late. Her murderer, Rafe Stevens, was sent to a mental hospital rather than prison. Ever since she was unable to save Kiri, Trinity has tried to avoid her abilities and all reminders of the past.

But now the dreams are back, and she fears that Rafe has escaped from the hospital and is coming for her. Aided by Dan Devlin, the son of the defense lawyer that saved Rafe from prison, the two set off to find Rafe before he can find her. Rafe has developed the ability to enter other peoples' dreams and harm them in their sleep. Dan believes in her and wants to keep her safe. During the brief time they spend together, an immediate bond forms and they risk everything to finally put Rafe where he belongs.

SLEEPLESS calls to mind the Nightmare on Elm Street movie series. The action is just as fast-past and heart-pounding as any adult thriller you will encounter. I hadn't expected to have SLEEPLESS be such a pulse-pounding read, which was a really pleasant surprise. Don't get me wrong, I was looking forward to reading SLEEPLESS, thinking it would be a nice teen romance, but it was so much more than that. Now, I'm not sure I'll be able to sleep easily tonight! I'll have visions of Rafe and the harm he tried to do to Trinity and Dan.

SLEEPLESS is Ms. Clark's first novel, and she's written a real winner. I eagerly await her future endeavors.

Note to reader: There is some violence and sexual situations in this story.
]]>
author: Terri Clark
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.60
book published: 2008
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Jaglvr for TeensReadToo.com

SLEEPLESS is not your everyday piece of fluff. Those picking up SLEEPLESS thinking it's a typical teen summer romance will be quite surprised. I know I was! SLEEPLESS may just keep you up all night trying to avoid your dreams!

Okay, I admit it, there is romance in this book, but that's not all that it's about. There's far more action and suspense going on beyond the attraction between Trinity and Dan.

It's the beginning of July and Trinity's best friend, Coral, is about to leave for soccer camp. It's the summer before they start college, and Coral has given Trinity an assignment for the remainder of the summer. Trinity is usually found in black. Coral tasks her with buying a BLUE dress during the summer, a promise to get out more, and to actually go out on a date. Trinity has no idea how she'll accomplish any of these, but she vows to keep her promise.

Coral leaves for camp and Trinity's mother leaves for a long-anticipated art trip to Europe. That leaves Trinity alone. And then the dreams start to come. Trinity has the unwanted media name "Dream Girl" stemming from the fact that others come to her in her dreams. A young girl, Kiri, came to her over a year ago. She asked for help, but in the end, Trinity and the cops were unable to save Kiri before it was too late. Her murderer, Rafe Stevens, was sent to a mental hospital rather than prison. Ever since she was unable to save Kiri, Trinity has tried to avoid her abilities and all reminders of the past.

But now the dreams are back, and she fears that Rafe has escaped from the hospital and is coming for her. Aided by Dan Devlin, the son of the defense lawyer that saved Rafe from prison, the two set off to find Rafe before he can find her. Rafe has developed the ability to enter other peoples' dreams and harm them in their sleep. Dan believes in her and wants to keep her safe. During the brief time they spend together, an immediate bond forms and they risk everything to finally put Rafe where he belongs.

SLEEPLESS calls to mind the Nightmare on Elm Street movie series. The action is just as fast-past and heart-pounding as any adult thriller you will encounter. I hadn't expected to have SLEEPLESS be such a pulse-pounding read, which was a really pleasant surprise. Don't get me wrong, I was looking forward to reading SLEEPLESS, thinking it would be a nice teen romance, but it was so much more than that. Now, I'm not sure I'll be able to sleep easily tonight! I'll have visions of Rafe and the harm he tried to do to Trinity and Dan.

SLEEPLESS is Ms. Clark's first novel, and she's written a real winner. I eagerly await her future endeavors.

Note to reader: There is some violence and sexual situations in this story.

]]> 30412215 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:27:09 -0700
"Ms. Topett turns to the class. Her voice shakes. 'Sometimes this happens in nature. Sometimes, if conditions are harsh, like there isn't enough food.'"

Students in the science class are still groaning as they react to the hamster eating her own young. But Josh knows it wasn't just nature, it was the cruel behavior of his fellow classmates.

Josh is not like everyone else. He dresses differently. He doesn't interact well with others. He stutters and is often the butt of cruel jokes. Maybe that's why he runs from the classroom that morning and makes the decisions that lead to tragedy.

Adam tells the story of what happened that day. He believes he knows the real Josh, and unlike his classmates, he tries to make a difference. When it becomes obvious that Josh is the gunman terrorizing the school, Adam chooses a path of positive action to avoid disaster.

LOCKDOWN focuses on an all-too-common situation in today's schools. School shootings are often the result of bullying and teasing. Josh is pushed beyond his limits and decides violence is the answer. This short novel (103 pages) highlights this problem in current society. Although the plot is simple, readers are taken into a frightening situation in enough depth to make it a worthwhile read.
]]>
author: Diane Tullson
name: Jennifer
average rating: 3.50
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Sally Kruger aka "Readingjunky" for TeensReadToo.com

"Ms. Topett turns to the class. Her voice shakes. 'Sometimes this happens in nature. Sometimes, if conditions are harsh, like there isn't enough food.'"

Students in the science class are still groaning as they react to the hamster eating her own young. But Josh knows it wasn't just nature, it was the cruel behavior of his fellow classmates.

Josh is not like everyone else. He dresses differently. He doesn't interact well with others. He stutters and is often the butt of cruel jokes. Maybe that's why he runs from the classroom that morning and makes the decisions that lead to tragedy.

Adam tells the story of what happened that day. He believes he knows the real Josh, and unlike his classmates, he tries to make a difference. When it becomes obvious that Josh is the gunman terrorizing the school, Adam chooses a path of positive action to avoid disaster.

LOCKDOWN focuses on an all-too-common situation in today's schools. School shootings are often the result of bullying and teasing. Josh is pushed beyond his limits and decides violence is the answer. This short novel (103 pages) highlights this problem in current society. Although the plot is simple, readers are taken into a frightening situation in enough depth to make it a worthwhile read.

]]> 30409880 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:00:23 -0700
After having moved with her family to a new neighborhood in a slightly creepy old house, Allie is the "New Girl" at Pine Heights Elementary.

Being the New Girl isn't all that easy. Sure, she's made some great new friends and she loves her new teacher. She even gets to go home for lunch because her house is only two blocks away from school. But there is a girl in her class, Rosemary, who isn't so fond of Allie and even threatens to beat her up. Allie keeps getting advice from everyone about what do about the whole Rosemary situation, but she has no idea which thing is the right thing.

During all of this school drama, Allie is also worrying about her future kitten, Mewsette. The mother of her kitten gave birth to her litter early, so all the little kitties are premature.

Poor Allie, what's a New Girl to do?

Awww, this was a really cute second book to the ALLIE FINKLE'S RULES FOR GIRLS series. I loved it! I'm happy Ms. Cabot started writing for younger readers. My cousin is going to love this when I give it to her for her birthday next month. Definitely have your little sisters (or even little brothers) check it out. Hopefully, they'll like it -- Allie is such a fun girl!
]]>
author: Meg Cabot
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2008
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Breanna F. for TeensReadToo.com

After having moved with her family to a new neighborhood in a slightly creepy old house, Allie is the "New Girl" at Pine Heights Elementary.

Being the New Girl isn't all that easy. Sure, she's made some great new friends and she loves her new teacher. She even gets to go home for lunch because her house is only two blocks away from school. But there is a girl in her class, Rosemary, who isn't so fond of Allie and even threatens to beat her up. Allie keeps getting advice from everyone about what do about the whole Rosemary situation, but she has no idea which thing is the right thing.

During all of this school drama, Allie is also worrying about her future kitten, Mewsette. The mother of her kitten gave birth to her litter early, so all the little kitties are premature.

Poor Allie, what's a New Girl to do?

Awww, this was a really cute second book to the ALLIE FINKLE'S RULES FOR GIRLS series. I loved it! I'm happy Ms. Cabot started writing for younger readers. My cousin is going to love this when I give it to her for her birthday next month. Definitely have your little sisters (or even little brothers) check it out. Hopefully, they'll like it -- Allie is such a fun girl!

]]> 30408516 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:43:39 -0700
Sam figures that his life is going pretty well. He's doing all right in school, he gets along with his mom, he has a great girlfriend, and is getting good at skateboarding. He has aspirations of attending college, unlike his mom, who had to drop out of school when she became pregnant with him.

But all of his dreams come crashing down when his girlfriend, Alicia, tells him that she's pregnant. And she has no intention of getting rid of the baby.

Sam spooks. He goes into denial. When that doesn't work, he tries running away, physically and emotionally. And then, an unexplainable thing happens...while he dreams at night, he gets whizzed into the future and is shown an unexpected life that will force him to face the facts and take responsibility for his actions.

SLAM is a frank, vivid, and highly realistic take on teenage pregnancy from a point of view that is completely different from what many are accustomed to. Hornby doesn't waste time by working in lectures of the consequences of premarital sex, but instead gives us Sam, who is a little selfish, very scared, a bit ashamed, but ultimately a strong character who, through many trials and despite his own feelings, manages to pull himself together and attempt to be the best dad he can be -- and is surprisingly good at it.

The more unbelievable element of the story, Sam's visits to the future, gives the story just the right dash of unique appeal without seeming too implausible. Hornby does more than just give us an intriguing account of teen parenthood; he reveals each emotion, thought, and feeling with startling clarity and humor, until you understand and empathize with Sam. SLAM is a fascinating, compelling, and even poignant read that won't soon be forgotten.
]]>
author: Nick Hornby
name: Jennifer
average rating: 3.39
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by The Compulsive Reader for TeensReadToo.com

Sam figures that his life is going pretty well. He's doing all right in school, he gets along with his mom, he has a great girlfriend, and is getting good at skateboarding. He has aspirations of attending college, unlike his mom, who had to drop out of school when she became pregnant with him.

But all of his dreams come crashing down when his girlfriend, Alicia, tells him that she's pregnant. And she has no intention of getting rid of the baby.

Sam spooks. He goes into denial. When that doesn't work, he tries running away, physically and emotionally. And then, an unexplainable thing happens...while he dreams at night, he gets whizzed into the future and is shown an unexpected life that will force him to face the facts and take responsibility for his actions.

SLAM is a frank, vivid, and highly realistic take on teenage pregnancy from a point of view that is completely different from what many are accustomed to. Hornby doesn't waste time by working in lectures of the consequences of premarital sex, but instead gives us Sam, who is a little selfish, very scared, a bit ashamed, but ultimately a strong character who, through many trials and despite his own feelings, manages to pull himself together and attempt to be the best dad he can be -- and is surprisingly good at it.

The more unbelievable element of the story, Sam's visits to the future, gives the story just the right dash of unique appeal without seeming too implausible. Hornby does more than just give us an intriguing account of teen parenthood; he reveals each emotion, thought, and feeling with startling clarity and humor, until you understand and empathize with Sam. SLAM is a fascinating, compelling, and even poignant read that won't soon be forgotten.

]]> 30406453 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:12:45 -0700
Shabang was Holly's fourteenth birthday present. Holly raised, cared for, and trained Shabang by herself and is now teaching her to work cows. Everything is going great until her first horse show, when Shabang and another horse, Nitro, are stolen.

Both Holly and Shabang are devastated by the separation and desperately hope to be reunited. As Holly works to find her horse, Shabang and Nitro are doing their best to stay alive in the harsh conditions of the Arizona desert.

SHABANG'S STORY is a quick read and can be very intriguing at parts. The one thing that bothered me, however, was the writing. At times, it seemed to slow the story down, especially with sentences that ended with double exclamation points (!!). But if you, like me, are able to get past these small things, you'll very much enjoy the book, whether you're a horse lover or not.

Told from the alternating views of both Shabang and Holly, this book tells of the adventure and love between a horse and girl.
]]>
author: Patricia Marlowe Barrett
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/17/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Harmony for TeensReadToo.com

Shabang was Holly's fourteenth birthday present. Holly raised, cared for, and trained Shabang by herself and is now teaching her to work cows. Everything is going great until her first horse show, when Shabang and another horse, Nitro, are stolen.

Both Holly and Shabang are devastated by the separation and desperately hope to be reunited. As Holly works to find her horse, Shabang and Nitro are doing their best to stay alive in the harsh conditions of the Arizona desert.

SHABANG'S STORY is a quick read and can be very intriguing at parts. The one thing that bothered me, however, was the writing. At times, it seemed to slow the story down, especially with sentences that ended with double exclamation points (!!). But if you, like me, are able to get past these small things, you'll very much enjoy the book, whether you're a horse lover or not.

Told from the alternating views of both Shabang and Holly, this book tells of the adventure and love between a horse and girl.

]]> 30193165 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 20:08:14 -0700
Ilyse Charpentier's world changes forever the day her parents leave on their boat trip that Ilyse and her brother Maurice surprised them with for their 20th anniversary. Her parents' lawyer notifies them that while at sea, the ship has exploded and everyone on board was killed.

So Ilyse and her brother are sent to live with their uncle, Emile. Emile is an evil man, and the two children witness him murdering one of the house staff. Fearing for their lives, the two run away and try to return to Paris. Upon their return, they are told that their lawyer friend has been murdered and all their money has been cleared out from the bank.

Trying to honor her mother's last words to her before they boarded the ship, Ilyse takes it upon herself to protect Maurice and keep the two of them together. Relying on her beauty and her voice, she eventually talks her way into the hottest cabaret in Paris. There, she receives the unwanted advances of Count Rakmanovich. He will do anything he can to possess her. Her young brother believes him to be evil and wants nothing to do with Ilyse if her plans to survive include the generosity of the Count's money.

For five years, Ilyse misses her brother but is at the mercy of the Count. She fears him and dreads seeing his face in the crowd at the cabaret at night. But one fateful evening, an outgoing British man, Ian McCarthy, stumbles into the cabaret and catches a glimpse of lovely Ilyse. The two meet, and an instant connection is formed.

Before Ilyse can even imagine a life of love with Ian, she must face her fears and her oppression by the Count.

Ms. Lux writes a lovely period piece taking place in 1894 Paris. The scenery is beautifully described, and the wonder of the City of Love is expertly detailed. Ilyse is a strong character that faces her fears for true love.
]]>
author: Melika Dannese Lux
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.62
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/14/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Jaglvr for TeensReadToo.com

Ilyse Charpentier's world changes forever the day her parents leave on their boat trip that Ilyse and her brother Maurice surprised them with for their 20th anniversary. Her parents' lawyer notifies them that while at sea, the ship has exploded and everyone on board was killed.

So Ilyse and her brother are sent to live with their uncle, Emile. Emile is an evil man, and the two children witness him murdering one of the house staff. Fearing for their lives, the two run away and try to return to Paris. Upon their return, they are told that their lawyer friend has been murdered and all their money has been cleared out from the bank.

Trying to honor her mother's last words to her before they boarded the ship, Ilyse takes it upon herself to protect Maurice and keep the two of them together. Relying on her beauty and her voice, she eventually talks her way into the hottest cabaret in Paris. There, she receives the unwanted advances of Count Rakmanovich. He will do anything he can to possess her. Her young brother believes him to be evil and wants nothing to do with Ilyse if her plans to survive include the generosity of the Count's money.

For five years, Ilyse misses her brother but is at the mercy of the Count. She fears him and dreads seeing his face in the crowd at the cabaret at night. But one fateful evening, an outgoing British man, Ian McCarthy, stumbles into the cabaret and catches a glimpse of lovely Ilyse. The two meet, and an instant connection is formed.

Before Ilyse can even imagine a life of love with Ian, she must face her fears and her oppression by the Count.

Ms. Lux writes a lovely period piece taking place in 1894 Paris. The scenery is beautifully described, and the wonder of the City of Love is expertly detailed. Ilyse is a strong character that faces her fears for true love.

]]> 30186886 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 18:59:50 -0700
Jennifer Scales had the shock of her life when she discovered that she wasn't truly human. She found out who she really was right when she began to morph, which was perfect timing for her parents to tell her how she is beaststalker and weredragon. To make matters even worse, both the halves that make up Jennifer are at odds with each other.

Jennifer wants all sides to have peace with one another, and her trip to Crescent Valley shows this. Bringing along a human, Susan, her best friend who she finally revealed her secret to, another weredragon, a beaststalker, her friend, Eddie, and a werachnid, her ex-boyfriend Skip, Jennifer really does hope that things will go peacefully.

If Eddie and Skip can survive their fight with one another and her parents can get along, then anything can happen.

There at Crescent Valley is Xavier Longtail, a respected dragon who didn't fully support Jennifer when she was being chosen as ambassador, only because he doesn't believe beaststalkers and weredragons can live among one another.

Before she knows it, Jennifer is slowly influenced by Xavier's words, but not for too long. Soon after, an epic battle erupts, and the weredragons biggest threat, the werarchnids, have a huge advantage over them. Saved by a necklace given to her by her ex, Skip, Jennifer is left with Xavier, her family gone. This means that they both need to find common ground to save the weredragons and to save Jennifer's friends and family.

Will the idea of peace be totally obliterated or can it still have a meaning?

A wonderful third installment to the already imaginative series, THE SILVER MOON ELM continues Jennifer's journey of acceptance with even more obstacles to face. Jennifer becomes a stronger character and more history of all the species' is revealed. Detailed and intricate, MaryJanice Davidson and Anthony Alongi do not disappoint their readers.
]]>
author: MaryJanice Davidson
name: Jennifer
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/14/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Randstostipher "tallnlankyrn" Nguyen for TeensReadToo.com

Jennifer Scales had the shock of her life when she discovered that she wasn't truly human. She found out who she really was right when she began to morph, which was perfect timing for her parents to tell her how she is beaststalker and weredragon. To make matters even worse, both the halves that make up Jennifer are at odds with each other.

Jennifer wants all sides to have peace with one another, and her trip to Crescent Valley shows this. Bringing along a human, Susan, her best friend who she finally revealed her secret to, another weredragon, a beaststalker, her friend, Eddie, and a werachnid, her ex-boyfriend Skip, Jennifer really does hope that things will go peacefully.

If Eddie and Skip can survive their fight with one another and her parents can get along, then anything can happen.

There at Crescent Valley is Xavier Longtail, a respected dragon who didn't fully support Jennifer when she was being chosen as ambassador, only because he doesn't believe beaststalkers and weredragons can live among one another.

Before she knows it, Jennifer is slowly influenced by Xavier's words, but not for too long. Soon after, an epic battle erupts, and the weredragons biggest threat, the werarchnids, have a huge advantage over them. Saved by a necklace given to her by her ex, Skip, Jennifer is left with Xavier, her family gone. This means that they both need to find common ground to save the weredragons and to save Jennifer's friends and family.

Will the idea of peace be totally obliterated or can it still have a meaning?

A wonderful third installment to the already imaginative series, THE SILVER MOON ELM continues Jennifer's journey of acceptance with even more obstacles to face. Jennifer becomes a stronger character and more history of all the species' is revealed. Detailed and intricate, MaryJanice Davidson and Anthony Alongi do not disappoint their readers.

]]> 30186317 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 18:53:37 -0700
It's not always easy to find out that you are half-beaststalker, half-weredragon, especially when life is just beginning to get better. Jennifer Scales knows exactly how it feels. If only her parents would have told her sooner, it may have been easier. For one thing, though, her strength is perfect for playing soccer.

With some quick adjustments, Jennifer began to get used to the whole morphing-into-a-dragon thing, especially since she can easily change back into her teenage self.

Quickly getting used to flying around and always wanting to go back to Crescent Valley, a weredragon refuge that most do not know about, Jennifer continues to strengthen her weredragon side. But, of course, since she is half-beaststalker (her mother is one), she also has to take lessons from her mom, even though it isn't easy.

Then Jennifer gets another shock of her life: her father was married once before her mother, to Diana, a werachnid. They had a baby together, although Jennifer's father thought at first the baby was dead. But he soon finds out that the baby, Evangelos, wasn't dead after all. He was just in another dimension, abandoned, and not very happy about it. All Evangelos wants now is revenge, and Jennifer's dad is his target.

Ironically enough, weredragons are beginning to be found dead, and the victims are those close to Jennifer's dad. Could it be Evangelos? Jennifer knows that she has to protect the ones she loves and put an end to all of the murders, before the murderer attacks her parents.

An enjoyable follow up to the first and very unique novel in the series featuring Jennifer Scales (JENNIFER SCALES AND THE ANCIENT FURNACE), JENNIFER SCALES AND THE MESSENGER OF LIGHT has action, mystery, and secrets that will shock and amaze those who have fallen in love with the series. Jennifer's life will not be going back to normal anytime soon, and her adventure is just getting started. MaryJanice Davidson and Anthony Alongi create a world different from what most have read about and then go on to satisfy their biggest fans.
]]>
author: MaryJanice Davidson
name: Jennifer
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2006
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/14/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Randstostipher "tallnlankyrn" Nguyen for TeensReadToo.com

It's not always easy to find out that you are half-beaststalker, half-weredragon, especially when life is just beginning to get better. Jennifer Scales knows exactly how it feels. If only her parents would have told her sooner, it may have been easier. For one thing, though, her strength is perfect for playing soccer.

With some quick adjustments, Jennifer began to get used to the whole morphing-into-a-dragon thing, especially since she can easily change back into her teenage self.

Quickly getting used to flying around and always wanting to go back to Crescent Valley, a weredragon refuge that most do not know about, Jennifer continues to strengthen her weredragon side. But, of course, since she is half-beaststalker (her mother is one), she also has to take lessons from her mom, even though it isn't easy.

Then Jennifer gets another shock of her life: her father was married once before her mother, to Diana, a werachnid. They had a baby together, although Jennifer's father thought at first the baby was dead. But he soon finds out that the baby, Evangelos, wasn't dead after all. He was just in another dimension, abandoned, and not very happy about it. All Evangelos wants now is revenge, and Jennifer's dad is his target.

Ironically enough, weredragons are beginning to be found dead, and the victims are those close to Jennifer's dad. Could it be Evangelos? Jennifer knows that she has to protect the ones she loves and put an end to all of the murders, before the murderer attacks her parents.

An enjoyable follow up to the first and very unique novel in the series featuring Jennifer Scales (JENNIFER SCALES AND THE ANCIENT FURNACE), JENNIFER SCALES AND THE MESSENGER OF LIGHT has action, mystery, and secrets that will shock and amaze those who have fallen in love with the series. Jennifer's life will not be going back to normal anytime soon, and her adventure is just getting started. MaryJanice Davidson and Anthony Alongi create a world different from what most have read about and then go on to satisfy their biggest fans.

]]> 30177007 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:55:38 -0700
Thirteen-year-old Marcus Kanenas has always been tormented because he lives his life in a wheelchair. Everyone sees him as an outcast, even though he really is a survivor and dreamer and he just wishes that he could escape his life as an orphan. In an attempt to escape, Marcus creates a world in his head. Here animals talk and tell jokes, trees have personality, and, best of all, magic fills the air. He's even appropriately named this far-off place Farworld. Little does Marcus know that Farworld actually exists.

One night a mysterious man comes to the boys' house where Marcus is residing and claims that he is a state attorney. He has come for Marcus, claiming that his parents have been looking for him. What Marcus doesn't know is that this man has an alternate identity, one that could be very harmful to him. When Marcus realizes what he's up against, he tries to escape. Before harm can befall him, though, he is somehow transported to Farworld. After recovering from the initial shock of waking up in new world, Marcus meets Kyja, the girl that brought him into Farworld and the girl that is most often in his dreams. But Kyja is different. She is the only one in this world of magic that doesn't posses any magical skills. While Marcus is an outcast on Earth because of his paralysis, Kyja is an outcast in Farworld because of her lack of magic. The only true friend she has is her skyte (a creature much like a lizard, but don't ever call them that!), Riph Raph.

Together they must embark on a journey. It seems that Kyja's good friend, Master Therapass, has been keeping a secret for the past thirteen years that is particularly dangerous to both Marcus and Kyja alike and could change the fate of both worlds. The Dark Circle, the evildoers in Farworld, have caught wind of this secret and are dead-set on finding Kyja and Marcus. As the Dark Circle's power grows, it is harder and harder for the kids to stay away. Their only hope is to convince the mythical Elements -- fire, earth, air, and water -- to create a drift between the worlds. Their first stop is Water Keep. On their journey they will battle everything the Dark Circle can throw at them. Together they learn much about each other and themselves, forging an everlasting friendship.

Where to start, where to start?? Fantasy has never really been my thing. While I have always loved a good book that centers around magic, the whole alternate world has never been my personal choice. When I got offered this book, I thought, why not? I mean, I feel that since I'm a reviewer now I should expand my genre horizons. With that said, I was hoping to find a book that would introduce me into the fantasy world and give me a better look at what the genre is really all about.

The first couple of chapters of WATER KEEP started off a bit shaky. I couldn't really tell where the story was going and I felt like the characters were really mean towards Marcus. As I got further into the book, the story quickly picked up and I found myself enthralled. The author really has a talent for making a faraway place seem realistic. I felt like I was riding along with Kyja and Marcus in their journey across the country land of Farworld. The comments that some of the characters made, especially Riph Raph, were very humorous and I found myself chuckling many times. I also thought that the premise of the
book was very interesting. I honestly didn't think that the plot would appeal to me, but in the end I think it is what made the book so special. Not only did the kids go on a journey to find the Water Keep, but also on a journey of self-discovery. I think this is an important theme in books and, while it is common, J. Scott Savage was able to put a twist on it and make it original.

The one thing that really made this message stand out to me was when Master Therapass said: "The real power of magic lies within you. Who you are, what you do, and most importantly of all, what you may become." I think that this is so true and this message continues throughout the book, but not in a monotonous manner. I also think that the dialogue in the book was great. It wasn't forced and it seemed to flow well. It also fit the characters. I've found that as I read more and more I realize that sometimes the author creates dialogue that doesn't match the characters personality. In this book, however, I could totally picture the characters saying what the author had written. I found it unique that the main character in the book had a disability, but it wasn't the main focus of the story. Marcus really came to almost accept his disability and learned to succeed with in spite of it.

Overall, I found myself riveted by this first book in the FARWORLD series, anxious to see what would happen next. Even now I am waiting to find out what will happen in future books, which I hope to see plenty of! For me, this was a great introduction into the fantasy genre, which I will for sure be reading more of now!
]]>
author: J. Scott Savage
name: Jennifer
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2008
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/14/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Tasha for TeensReadToo.com

Thirteen-year-old Marcus Kanenas has always been tormented because he lives his life in a wheelchair. Everyone sees him as an outcast, even though he really is a survivor and dreamer and he just wishes that he could escape his life as an orphan. In an attempt to escape, Marcus creates a world in his head. Here animals talk and tell jokes, trees have personality, and, best of all, magic fills the air. He's even appropriately named this far-off place Farworld. Little does Marcus know that Farworld actually exists.

One night a mysterious man comes to the boys' house where Marcus is residing and claims that he is a state attorney. He has come for Marcus, claiming that his parents have been looking for him. What Marcus doesn't know is that this man has an alternate identity, one that could be very harmful to him. When Marcus realizes what he's up against, he tries to escape. Before harm can befall him, though, he is somehow transported to Farworld. After recovering from the initial shock of waking up in new world, Marcus meets Kyja, the girl that brought him into Farworld and the girl that is most often in his dreams. But Kyja is different. She is the only one in this world of magic that doesn't posses any magical skills. While Marcus is an outcast on Earth because of his paralysis, Kyja is an outcast in Farworld because of her lack of magic. The only true friend she has is her skyte (a creature much like a lizard, but don't ever call them that!), Riph Raph.

Together they must embark on a journey. It seems that Kyja's good friend, Master Therapass, has been keeping a secret for the past thirteen years that is particularly dangerous to both Marcus and Kyja alike and could change the fate of both worlds. The Dark Circle, the evildoers in Farworld, have caught wind of this secret and are dead-set on finding Kyja and Marcus. As the Dark Circle's power grows, it is harder and harder for the kids to stay away. Their only hope is to convince the mythical Elements -- fire, earth, air, and water -- to create a drift between the worlds. Their first stop is Water Keep. On their journey they will battle everything the Dark Circle can throw at them. Together they learn much about each other and themselves, forging an everlasting friendship.

Where to start, where to start?? Fantasy has never really been my thing. While I have always loved a good book that centers around magic, the whole alternate world has never been my personal choice. When I got offered this book, I thought, why not? I mean, I feel that since I'm a reviewer now I should expand my genre horizons. With that said, I was hoping to find a book that would introduce me into the fantasy world and give me a better look at what the genre is really all about.

The first couple of chapters of WATER KEEP started off a bit shaky. I couldn't really tell where the story was going and I felt like the characters were really mean towards Marcus. As I got further into the book, the story quickly picked up and I found myself enthralled. The author really has a talent for making a faraway place seem realistic. I felt like I was riding along with Kyja and Marcus in their journey across the country land of Farworld. The comments that some of the characters made, especially Riph Raph, were very humorous and I found myself chuckling many times. I also thought that the premise of the
book was very interesting. I honestly didn't think that the plot would appeal to me, but in the end I think it is what made the book so special. Not only did the kids go on a journey to find the Water Keep, but also on a journey of self-discovery. I think this is an important theme in books and, while it is common, J. Scott Savage was able to put a twist on it and make it original.

The one thing that really made this message stand out to me was when Master Therapass said: "The real power of magic lies within you. Who you are, what you do, and most importantly of all, what you may become." I think that this is so true and this message continues throughout the book, but not in a monotonous manner. I also think that the dialogue in the book was great. It wasn't forced and it seemed to flow well. It also fit the characters. I've found that as I read more and more I realize that sometimes the author creates dialogue that doesn't match the characters personality. In this book, however, I could totally picture the characters saying what the author had written. I found it unique that the main character in the book had a disability, but it wasn't the main focus of the story. Marcus really came to almost accept his disability and learned to succeed with in spite of it.

Overall, I found myself riveted by this first book in the FARWORLD series, anxious to see what would happen next. Even now I am waiting to find out what will happen in future books, which I hope to see plenty of! For me, this was a great introduction into the fantasy genre, which I will for sure be reading more of now!

]]> 30167382 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:58:00 -0700
Marianne and Opal have always had a special connection. Home schooled for a time, when they were separated their first day in a real school, neither girl was the same. They screamed and only relaxed when they were together in the same room holding hands. As they grew up, there was always the unique bond. But Marianne often wanted to test her wings and try to fit in with the popular crowd. She tried to join the cheerleading team. And she made up her mind to go for the Homecoming crown.

Opal was happy with the way things were, and would've been perfectly content had her world consisted of only her and Marianne. But one night, the entire world changed. The two girls ventured out towards the ravine where they had their own world. Marianne brought drugs with her and proceeded to get high. Opal, wanting nothing to do with the drugs, and having obligations back home with her grandma, left Marianne at the ravine.

The next morning, Opal is awakened by her grandma. Marianne was dead. Found at the bottom of the ravine. Hearing the news, Opal is in shock. And it brings back the ghost stories of Hannah that the girls were told growing up.

M+O 4EVR tells the story of Opal getting past her grief. Opal remembers bits and pieces of her life with Marianne. As she recalls their history, a second story of the ghost, Hannah, is revealed. Hannah was a young slave girl that attempts to escape the horrible life that awaits her as she grows out of her young years.

M+O 4EVR is not an easy story to read. The grief and sadness is evident throughout the entire story. But even with the bleak outlook Opal has, there is a hint of hope throughout. Reading about Hannah's dream of a better life as well as Opal's struggles to decide upon a future leaves the reader feeling stronger by the end.
]]>
author: Tonya Hegamin
name: Jennifer
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 08/14/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Jaglvr for TeensReadToo.com

Marianne and Opal have always had a special connection. Home schooled for a time, when they were separated their first day in a real school, neither girl was the same. They screamed and only relaxed when they were together in the same room holding hands. As they grew up, there was always the unique bond. But Marianne often wanted to test her wings and try to fit in with the popular crowd. She tried to join the cheerleading team. And she made up her mind to go for the Homecoming crown.

Opal was happy with the way things were, and would've been perfectly content had her world consisted of only her and Marianne. But one night, the entire world changed. The two girls ventured out towards the ravine where they had their own world. Marianne brought drugs with her and proceeded to get high. Opal, wanting nothing to do with the drugs, and having obligations back home with her grandma, left Marianne at the ravine.

The next morning, Opal is awakened by her grandma. Marianne was dead. Found at the bottom of the ravine. Hearing the news, Opal is in shock. And it brings back the ghost stories of Hannah that the girls were told growing up.

M+O 4EVR tells the story of Opal getting past her grief. Opal remembers bits and pieces of her life with Marianne. As she recalls their history, a second story of the ghost, Hannah, is revealed. Hannah was a young slave girl that attempts to escape the horrible life that awaits her as she grows out of her young years.

M+O 4EVR is not an easy story to read. The grief and sadness is evident throughout the entire story. But even with the bleak outlook Opal has, there is a hint of hope throughout. Reading about Hannah's dream of a better life as well as Opal's struggles to decide upon a future leaves the reader feeling stronger by the end.

]]> 30165271 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:33:29 -0700
Christopher "Kip" Campbell is the funeral director's son. The Campbell family lives in the small town of Clover and everyone knows Campbell and Sons Funeral Home. Everyone in the family has their job to do and the family business has been passed down from generation to generation, Christopher to Christopher.

Kip doesn't want to be a funeral director. He wants to get away from his small town. No one thinks it's cool to live in a funeral home -- and it's certainly not very cool to have a funeral director as your dad.

But Kip has a gift in the funeral business; he can hear what the deceased need help with in order to move on. When mean old Billy Blye passes away, Kip hears that helping Billy move on will be worth his weight in gold. That would be enough to help out his family's business and for him to quit. He has no choice but to find out what is holding Billy back.

Author Coleen Murtagh Paratore, author of THE WEDDING PLANNER'S DAUGHTER, is back with the start of a new series. THE FUNERAL DIRECTOR'S SON has Ms. Paratore's trademark warmth and charm, but this time she takes on a boy's mindset. She also mixes in a bit of mystery.

Kip is surrounded by a well-written cast of supporting characters that could easily star in their own novel. Nanbull, Kip's Grandmother, is full of spunk and sass, whereas Kip's friends are supportive and capture the voices of twelve-year-old boys. Ms. Paratore knows how to mix the feel of a classic with a modern story in a way that makes me wish her stories never ended. A great read for all ages and another winner from one of my favorite authors!

]]>
author: Coleen Murtagh Paratore
name: Jennifer
average rating: 10.00
book published: 2008
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 08/14/08
shelves: trt-reviews
review:
Reviewed by Sarah Bean the Green Bean Teen Queen for TeensReadToo.com

Christopher "Kip" Campbell is the funeral director's son. The Campbell family lives in the small town of Clover and everyone knows Campbell and Sons Funeral Home. Everyone in the family has their job to do and the family business has been passed down from generation to generation, Christopher to Christopher.

Kip doesn't want to be a funeral director. He wants to get away from his small town. No one thinks it's cool to live in a funeral home -- and it's certainly not very cool to have a funeral director as your dad.

But Kip has a gift in the funeral business; he can hear what the deceased need help with in order to move on. When mean old Billy Blye passes away, Kip hears that helping Billy move on will be worth his weight in gold. That would be enough to help out his family's business and for him to quit. He has no choice but to find out what is holding Billy back.

Author Coleen Murtagh Paratore, author of THE WEDDING PLANNER'S DAUGHTER, is back with the start of a new series. THE FUNERAL DIRECTOR'S SON has Ms. Paratore's trademark warmth and charm, but this time she takes on a boy's mindset. She also mixes in a bit of mystery.

Kip is surrounded by a well-written cast of supporting characters that could easily star in their own novel. Nanbull, Kip's Grandmother, is full of spunk and sass, whereas Kip's friends are supportive and capture the voices of twelve-year-old boys. Ms. Paratore knows how to mix the feel of a classic with a modern story in a way that makes me wish her stories never ended. A great read for all ages and another winner from one of my favorite authors!


]]> 30135200 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 09:30:13 -0700
For Sparrow Delaney, having to switch schools before starting tenth grade isn't a curse--it's a blessing. All her life she's wanted to be normal, and now that she's found a chance to start over, she's not about to let anything ruin it. But it's hard to live a normal life when your sisters, mother, and grandmother are all mediums, in contact with the spirit world, and when you live in Lily Dale, New York, a town devoted to spiritualism where s�ances are regular activities and everyone you meet has some affinity for the dead. It only gets harder when you hear the dead, too.

As the seventh daughter of a seventh daughter, Sparrow is an exceptionally powerful medium. She's been seeing ghosts since she was five years old, and she knows her talents far surpass those of anyone else she's met. But Sparrow has always wanted more from life than being a medium, so from a young age, she's hidden her gifts, pretending that she cannot communicate with the dead at all. She sees her move to a new school as a chance to finally break away from the teasing that's always followed her, and the first step in becoming someone who has no need for annoying spirits who refuse to Move On.

Unfortunately for Sparrow, the spirits don't care too much about what she wants. On the first day of school, the spirit of a teen named Luke appears to her and urges her to help him solve the problems that are keeping him from Moving On. Sparrow ignores him at first, but Luke is more persistent than the other ghosts she's shrugged off over the years, and eventually she finds herself grudgingly listening to his story. Sparrow also has to deal with a history project partner, Will, who decides they should focus their local history report on Lily Dale and "those psychic quacks" who live there. Not to mention the continued worrying of her mother, grandmother, and sisters about her apparent lack of talents.

I came into this story less than thrilled by the premise, but I was quickly won over by Sparrow's first-person voice as she articulated all of the difficulties of being a teenage medium trying to hide her talents. The author does a good job of painting realistic--albeit quirky--relationships between Sparrow and her family members and new-found friends. The intricacies of her interactions with Luke and Will kept me wanting to know more about all of the characters involved. Even readers put off by the story's fantastic premise will be sucked into the drama of Sparrow's life and fly through the plot's twists and turns until they reach what I felt was a very satisfying conclusion.
]]>
author: Suzanne Harper
name: Jennifer
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2008