Review: The Gloomy Ghost by David Lubar

The Gloomy Ghost by David Lubar. A Monsterific Tale.

Starscape
Publication Date: July 2014
List Price: $15.99
ISBN-13: 9780765330802

Review: Do you like short spooky books? Well if you do then you will love The Gloomy Ghost written by David Lubar. In this book a boy named Rory has turned into a ghost; he is in the middle of life and death. He tries to tell his parents, but because he is a ghost, they can't hear him. The worst part is that if he doesn't hurry, he will stay a ghost forever. Do you think he will be able to turn back to human?

Rory is always getting into trouble. But one day he takes it way to far, he breaks the living room TV. He knows he is going to get in big trouble, so he hides in the bushes outside his house for a long time, until he gets hungry and eats the berries on his bush. Now he is feeling weirder than usual and suddenly he can't move. After a while, he realizes that he has become a ghost, he also realizes that the body he is looking at is his. Now he will do all it takes to show his family where he is and save himself from staying a ghost forever. Will he be able to save himself or will he stay ghost forever?

The Gloomy Ghost is perfect for children of age 8-12. They will love it. It is full of adventure, humor, and surprise, everything a child would love in a book. It is also easy to read and understand which is better, that way people will get the hang of it and love it even more. It is also a great book for 8-12 year olds because it is a short book, and I know some children miss great books because they are long, but this one is perfect size for upper elementary students. So check this book out because it is perfect for you.

Review written by Ashley (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Starscape/TOR for Teens for providing a copy of The Gloomy Ghost for this review.

Have you read The Gloomy Ghost? How would you rate it?

Review: Deep Blue by Jennifer Donnelly

Deep Blue by Jennifer Donnelly. Book One in the Waterfire Saga.

Disney-Hyperion
Publication Date: May 2014
List Price: $17.99
ISBN-13: 9781423133162

Review: If you like complicated fantasy books with mermaids and magic, I think you might like Deep Blue. If you read this book, get ready for all the juicy details in the book. Jennifer Donnelly, the author, wrote very descriptively, and she made the names of characters are fun and unique.

In Deep Blue, there is a girl named Serafina. She is a brave compassionate mermaid princess with a golden tail like her dad's. Serafina lives in Miromara. Her best friend Princess Neela comes to visit. Serafina and Neela had the same dream about the Iele, who are river witch mermaids, and have to find four other mermaids and look for them. In this book, there are six who ruled and Serafina, Neela, Ling, Ava, Becca, and Astrid are all descendants of them. There is a lot of action in this book, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat between chapters.

In my opinion, the details in the book were really enchanting. An example was how the mermaid's room seemed to awaken with her. I think this book is mostly for girls because of the fantasy and mermaids. I thought the beginning was a little bit complicated because I couldn't really understand who was talking or thinking. Some parts of the book were alarming like when they had to straiten Ling's arm to put the two broken bones back into place so they could heal more easily. Overall, I thought Deep Blue was a really interesting and worthwhile book to read with lots of twists and turns.

Review written by Gina (6th grade student).

Have you read Deep Blue? How would you rate it?

Review: Krabat and the Sorcerer's Mill by Otfried Preussler

Krabat and the Sorcerer's Mill by Otfried Preussler. A Reprint of the Classic Novel.

The New York Review Children's Collection
Publication Date: September 2014
List Price: $17.95
ISBN-13: 9781590177785

Review: Ker-chunk! Ker-chunk! The mill goes on. Have you ever been turned into a raven at the blink of eye? Imagine being trapped in a creepy mill with a malevolent and mysterious owner. In the book, Krabat And The Sorcerer's Mill, the main character, Krabat, was created with careful consideration by the author of this wild adventure, Otfried Preussler. He used creative ways to bring this book to life, and make the readers lose their wits in this grand story.

Krabat And The Sorcerer's Mill has many twists and turns in the entire entrancing book. Krabat reaches a village called Schwarszkollm with two of his companions. For the past few nights, Krabat hears mysterious voices in his dream and hesitates on what will be the wisest decision to make about these strange voices. Should he tell his companions? He finally decides to follow the voices and he gets swayed around to an old mill that none of the villagers dare to go by. Knocking on the door of the mill, he thinks the mill is abandoned. So he decides to slip into the dark mill. He sees a light in a room, far back in the mill. The only source of light is a single candle. The candle is sitting inside a human skull, with a book on the bottom. With the little candlelight, Krabat sees a man with an eye patch muttering strange words in gibberish. Krabat tries to rush out of the mill, but before he has the chance, a cold and firm hand lays on his shoulder. The man with he eye patch is staring right at him! Before he knows it, Krabat is working at this mill with eleven journeymen accompanying him. They work the mill ground and repair the mill. For the first few weeks, Krabat feels safe, and thinks the apprenticeship is a great opportunity. He finally realizes that this is no ordinary mill and something wrong is happening when he is introduced to black magic by the master, the person with the eye patch. He also finds out that every year one miller dies and another one comes. What will happen to Krabat? Will Krabat die next?

I think Krabat And The Sorcerer's Mill is a very interesting fictional book about magic, trickery, mystery, humor, and romance. I loved the twists when you think something happened, but it isn't what it appears to be. For example, one of the journeymen tries to kill himself, but it didn't turn out how he interpreted. I loved how the author tries to use older time language to capture you in the book with dialect from the journeymen. The author uses some words, like hastily and linger, that might be hard for some sixth graders, but if you're advanced in reading, this is perfect for you. In my opinion, this book would be appropriate for either boys or girls because it has elements that would appeal to both genders. Girls might like the story line about the romance between Krabat and his secret lover. On the other hand, boys are usually more interested in the adventure and excitement of this book. I seriously couldn't put the book down. While reading this book, I found it almost impossible to resist knowing the end. The book features many mysteries. On countless occasions I would try guessing what was on the next page of the book. The wittiness of the book is also extraordinary. I especially liked Krabat's dreams about the eleven crows and what they symbolized. In conclusion, this book is perfect for almost any sixth grader, and can be associated with many genres that make it suitable for almost anyone. Krabat And The Sorcerer's Mill totally exceeded my expectations and I give it a ten out of ten.

Review written by Pavel (6th grade student).

We would like to thank The New York Review Children's Collection for providing a copy of Krabat and the Sorcerer's Mill for this review.

Have you read Krabat and the Sorcerer's Mill? How would you rate it?

Review: Frostborn by Lou Anders

Frostborn by Lou Anders. Book 1 in the Thrones and Bones Series.

Crown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: August 2014
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780385387781

Review: Have you ever felt like a misfit? In Thrones and Bones Frostborn by Lou Anders, Karn and Thianna are misfits in a Viking-type setting where there are fantasy characters such as giants, trolls, and dragons. In this book, Karn and Thianna experience a great adventure!

In Thrones and Bones Frostborn, the two protagonists, Karn and Thianna, feel like they don't belong. Karn is the oldest in his human family, so that means that he has the responsibility of one day running the family farm. All he really wants to do, though, is play a board game called Thrones and Bones. He despises the thought that one day he will have the responsibility of running the family farm. Thianna lives in a village of giants, but the only problem is that she is half human and half giant. She is only 7 feet tall. That is huge for a human to be 7 feet tall, but not for a giant. She is about half the size of most giants in her village. In this book, Karn wakes the undead, people come after Thianna and her magical horn, and they meet an enormous fire- breathing dragon named Orm. They find themselves together, struggling to stay alive while protecting a magical horn Thianna's mother stole from someone many years ago.

I adored this exciting, suspenseful book. The author's writing style reminds me of Holes by Louis Sachar. I could not stop reading Thrones and Bones Frostborn. The author used great description in this book such as this passage that appeared on page 11, ÒThe giant glowered down at her over a large bulbous nose and bushy blond beard.Ó There is also phenomenal vocabulary such as, "glowered...bulbousÉ" from page 11. The reader could probably draw a picture to go along with every page. In my opinion, this book is suitable for both girls and boys. The author included dragons for boys and snow spirits for girls. I loved every part of this book, but people who do not enjoy reading about magical creatures might not like this book very much. I believe this book is for ages 12 and older because the writing style would be a little too hard to understand for a lower level reader. Also, I would recommend it for ages 12+ because of the complex vocabulary. In conclusion, Thrones and Bones Frostborn is a perfect combination of suspense and action.

Review written by Calden (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Frostborn for this review.

Have you read Frostborn? How would you rate it?

Review: A Pinch of Magic by Kiki Thorpe

A Pinch of Magic by Kiki Thorpe. The 7th Book in The Never Girls Series.

Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: January 2014
List Price: $5.99
ISBN-13: 9780736430975

Review: Do you believe in fairies? If so, then A Pinch of Magic written by Kiki Thorpe might be just the right book for you! A Pinch of Magic is an exciting story about four best friends: Mia, Kate, Lainey and Gabby, who has a portal Pixie Hollow.

In the story, Mia, Kate, Lainey and Gabby are volunteering for a block party. Mia signs up for the bake fair. Mia's only problem is that she can't bake. Then, when she makes a bet with the Taylor twins, she knows she needs help! There is only one person who can help Mia goes to Pixie Hollow for help. Dulcie (a baking fairy) agrees to help them. Will Mia win the bet? Or will the Taylor twins win?

A Pinch of Magic is a great book! I love how the author put Pixie Hollow and the real world together to make the book more unique. This book would be good for girls' ages 8 to 10, since it has a lot of very easy words. A Pinch of Magic has a lot of fantasy elements. The Never Girls is a series; so if you like A Pinch of Magic, then check out the other books in the series; In a Blink, The Space Between, A Dandelion Wish, From the Mist, Wedding Wings And the Woods Beyond. To conclude, this book was a good book.

Review written by Sarah (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of A Pinch of Magic for this review.

Have you read A Pinch of Magic? How would you rate it?

Review: The Bully Bug by David Lubar

The Bully Bug by David Lubar. A Monsterific Tale.

Starscape
Publication Date: September 2014
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780765330826

Review: Do you like bugs? Do you like genetic mutations? Then this book is the book for you. The Bully Bug by David Lubar is a book about a boy named Lud that turns into an insect. Lud and his brother Bud are playing in their backyard when they decide to tip over an oven. They just happen to find a cereal box under it and Bud decides to open it and out comes a swarm of radioactive mimic beetles. They bit Lud and about three days later he turns into a bug. Lud needs help immediately. So he turned to an unlikely person for help. A nerd, and his name is Norman. Although Lud has beaten Norman up a countless number of times he still chooses to help him.

I loved The Bully Bug; it is amazing! The best part has to have been when the final transformation is in process. I recommend this book to people who like fantasy genres and people that are around the age of 9-10 because there are bigger words here and there but other wise the book is perfect for kids around that age. Although I don't usually enjoy fantasy books, this one surprised me. Usually when you think of fantasy you think of kingdoms and kings and queens, well this fantasy story is the complete opposite. It's just about a boy that lives in a small town and that he turns into a bug.

The book is really astounding! I want to read this book 15 times over. The book has so many fantasy like features it's incredible. The characters are really well developed. David Lubar's writing style makes The Bully Bug more interesting then it already is. The moral of the story is don't tip over ovens and open up the cereal boxes underneath them.

Review written by Aaron (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Starscape/TOR for Teens for providing a copy of The Bully Bug for this review.

Have you read The Bully Bug? How would you rate it?

Review: The Fire Wish by Amber Lough

The Fire Wish by Amber Lough.

Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: July 2014
List Price: $17.99
ISBN-13: 9780385369763

Review: Have you ever wondered what it was like to switch places with someone you've never even met? The Fire Wish by Amber Lough is the one to read for anyone who loves fantasy books!

The Fire Wish starts off in India, where there's a great war between the mystical jinni and the humans. A girl from a tribe near Baghdad named Zayele was picked (more like forced) by her father to be the bride of the prince of Baghdad. Najwa is one of the mystical jinni who wants to be one of the people in the Corps to fight in the war (they also grant and make wishes). While Zayele is on her way to the city of Baghdad to marry the prince, she wishes to run away and go back home. But Najwa appears and Zayele catches her to make a wish. Zayele wishes to have them switch roles and Najwa grants that wish. Want more? If so, then you'll just have to read this novel!

The Fire Wish is recommended for anyone who loves fantasy/fiction books. I loved how Lough incorporated humans and fairy-like people such as Najwa which for me, makes this such an interesting book! The book also includes two-sided perspectives, which can be confusing at first, but you'll get it once you know what's going on. It shows you that even though you want something, it doesn't really mean that it'll come out the exactly how you wanted it to go. You probably wouldn't even know how to solve it. I loved this book, and hopefully, others will read it too!

Review written by Carol (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of The Fire Wish for this review.

Have you read The Fire Wish? How would you rate it?

Review: The Hypnotists by Gordon Korman

The Hypnotists by Gordon Korman. Book 1 in The Hypnotists Series.

Scholastic
Publication Date: July 2013
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780545503228

Review: Have you ever wondered how magicians hypnotize people by swinging pocket watches? If you have, then The Hypnotists by Gordan Korman is the perfect book because it reveals most truths about hypnotism while providing a good story.

This book follows a boy named Jackson, who has color changing eyes. Strange things keep on happening to Jackson, but he doesn't know why. Once Jackson finds out what has been happening to him, he can't handle it and has to take on a difficult foe to stop the chaos.

The Hypnotisst is a good book. It has a lot of cliffhangers that are extremely suspenseful with unpredictable outcomes. This book is for ages 10-12 because it has some intense elements that younger children may not understand. The Hypnotists will keep you on the edge of your seat guessing what will happen next. This book is a great read for all genders that want to get good action story with a good twist.

Review written by Michael (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Michael for providing a copy of The Hypnotists for this review.

Have you read The Hypnotists? How would you rate it?

Review: Still Life by Jacqueline West

Still Life by Jacqueline West. Volume 5 in The Books of Elswhere Series.

Dial
Publication Date: June 2014
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780803736917

Review: A fantastic book series by Jacqueline West will leave you flipping the pages. The Books of Elsewhere: Still Life has a special twist that interests the readers. Olive's adventures will lead you to the next book. Olive is the girl in the story who is uncovering all the secrets behind Elsewhere; she is the character in this book that is the adventurer. This book focuses on a woman named Annabelle McMartin. Everyone knows she is dead, but Olive is determined that there is a big secret behind all of this.

Olive takes a trip to the local art museum; where she sees something, which is the most remarkable thing she has ever seen. This amazing sight takes Olive on a fascinating, unexpected journey. She uncovers secrets of Morton's mysterious vanished parents and finds out from the deepest darkest roots of Old Man McMartin's strange world.

For Still Life though, you need to finish the rest of the Elsewhere series before reading it. I haven't read this book series, so I didn't have too much of an idea who some these characters were. This book would be very exciting for the ones who have read so far the series.<.br>
Nonetheless, in this final book, Olive uncovers the full story of Elsewhere and the destruction of Elsewhere itself. Olive risks her own ability for the people of whom she loves. How long will she keep up with this? What will happen to her and what might she get herself into?

Review written by Khushali (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Penguin Young Readers Group for providing a copy of Still Life for this review.

Have you read Still Life? How would you rate it?

Review: The Shade of the Moon by Susan Beth Pfeffer

The Shade of the Moon by Susan Beth Pfeffer. The Conclusion to the Life As We Knew It Series.

Houghton Mifflin Books for Children
Publication Date: September 2014
List Price: $8.99
ISBN-13: 9780544336155

Review: Have you ever been regretful of your actions or thought you hurt someone in a way that would fill you with guilt? Or have you been going over your life and seeing it as if the fate of your family is on you? If you have, you would be a lot like Jon, a boy in the story The Shade Of The Moon by Susan Beth Pfeffer who feels all of this and does what he can to keep the people he loves safe.

Jon is a slip, a person that was barely allowed to get into a home, of an enclave in Sexton, Tennessee where he lives with his stepmother Lisa and stepbrother Gabe. The people of these home areas are separated between grubs and clavers Lisa has to be evaluated which determines if she can stay or if she has to go and leave Jon and Gabe behind. To protect Lisa, Jon has to be the "best of friends" with a boy named Tyler, the boy whose father determines the outcome of the evaluation. The problem is that Jon falls in love with a girl named Sarah who believes that all humans are the same even if they are grubs or clavers. Since Tyler and his pals are clavers, which mean that they do not feel the same way as Sarah feels about grubs, they do not treat her well. Jon decides that after the evaluation, he will forget about Tyler and love Sarah. But if Tyler were to be treated this way, Sarah will pay a price. Can Jon protect Sarah and love her at the same time? Will he be able to save Lisa's evaluation? Or will the people haunt him as a girl named Julie haunts him?

The Shade Of The Moon is intended for children 12 and up because of the foul language that can be found in this book and the more mature actions. It is a good book for all kinds of children, but people interested in romance might like this more than others. This is a really good fantasy book that shows people to do the right thing even in tight situations and that love always finds a way.

Review written by Yesenia (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for providing a copy of The Shade of the Moon for this review.

Have you read The Shade of the Moon? How would you rate it?

Review: Lost Children of the Far Islands by Emily Raabe

Lost Children of the Far Islands by Emily Raabe.

Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: April 2014
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780375870910

Review: Do you like mysteries and fantasy? Then you will enjoy the book Lost Children of the Far Islands Emily Raabe. It is a story about three children that go to the Far Islands to save their mother.

Lost Children of the Far Islands is about twins and their little sister that live in Maine when their mother becomes sick. She becomes sick because she is protecting her children from evil, so they go to the far islands and see their grandmother. Their grandmother is folk, which means that she can turn in to creatures and back to humans just like their mother. Then when the kids get there they have to battle a beast, but however kills the beasts will die. Will the kids make it alive?

Lost Children of the Far Islands should be a book for kids in grades 4-6, because it has some big vocabulary and there is a lot going on. So you have to be able to keep up. This book has a great mixture of fantasy and mystery, because the kids have to find out what happens to their mom and what the little sister is trying to say. The fantasy of the book is the way the folk can switch from animals to humans and the other way around. The setting of the book is realistic in the beginning because they are in the normal world and are at their house going to school and being normal people. Then the setting changes to a mysterious place in the wilderness. This is where they met their mother's side of the family. This book would mostly be recommended to a girl.

Review written by Alexa (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Lost Children of the Far Islands for this review.

Have you read Lost Children of the Far Islands? How would you rate it?

Review: The Hero's Trail by T. A. Barron

The Hero's Trail by T. A. Barron.

Puffin Books
Publication Date: February 2007
List Price: $6.99
ISBN-13: 9780142407608

Review: If you're looking for a book about hardships that did not end in failure, then, The Hero's Trail by T.A. Barron is a perfect choice. It is about how people with diseases and just other problems in general don't let them give up. Even though them may be faced with ridicule, they showed determination.

In The Hero's Trail, it shows that someone with polio even turned out to be one of the fastest people in the worldÉmaybe even the fastest! Wilma Rudolph had polio, and she could walk and run like other kids did, unlike other people with polio. Soon she broke records and became the fastest woman in the world! But not all of the stories in this book are all about having a disease. The Hero's Trail is also about a man named Glenn Cunningham had been scorched by an old stove, and his legs were seriously scorched leaving almost no muscle remaining! The family and especially Glenn prayed that he would be able to walk and run again. He slowly felt feeling around his legs. He moved his toes and his knees. And soon he was walking around his room. Then he started breaking records. All of them were determined to keep on going. There are even more people in the book like, Sherwin Long and many other people that fought through.

This book should be told to everyone, in every age. But some of the vocabulary may be challenging for younger readers. But otherwise, this book is amazing. It has crazy stories of one of the most famous people ever! And they may have had things happen to them that you never knew about. But they fought through. And that is what I admire most about these people. And that is what I think that I what the author (T.A. Barron) is trying to get across: to determinate. Determination got them through their hardships. And Glenn Cunningham prayed to get better. And that is what I think is the best type of determination there is. And ever was! All of the people in this book wanted to conquer what had happened; and they did! Just with determination. They did anything they could in their power to fix it. I also love how some of the people didn't care what other people thought of him or her. They knew they were amazing. They knew they would conquer the disease and/or problem. And they did. This book is as amazing as the people in it. Buy it or check it out at your local library and enjoy!

Review written by Tommy (6th grade student).

We would like to thank T. A. Barron for providing a copy of The Hero's Trail for this review.

Have you read The Hero's Trail? How would you rate it?

Review: Promise Bound by Anne Greenwood Brown

Promise Bound by Anne Greenwood Brown. The Third Installment in her Mermaid Trilogy.

Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: January 2014
List Price: $17.99
ISBN-13: 9780385743839

Review: There are creatures that can breathe in water. They call them mermaids. They're all around you, living next to you, eating with you. You don't know what they really are, and they don't mind. They practice their manors and await the real frenzy that enhances as you hit the water. In the thrilling closing to Lies Beneath and Deep Betrayal, Anne Greenwood Brown gives you Promise Bound, as serious as it sounds.

Falling in love is a roller coaster. Caldor and Lily never think that it would go down, but when it does, they crash. Lily has taken the duty of guarding Nadia's pendant, but that includes sleeping through the dead mer's memories. Stuck to the conclusion that Nadia wants Caldor to find his real parents, Lily makes a tough decision that could end it all. All the while though, trouble is brewing when mortal, Jack, takes the responsibility of Pavati's new child. And the two mer sisters quarrel for the leadership of the clan and the loyalty of Lily and her father.

Any young adult readers will melt into the book and experience the journey right along with Lily and Caldor. Through heart-breaking break-offs, turf wars for leadership, and emotional conflicts, come along with Caldor and Lily as they figure out what life is all about. You race right along with them on the beaches, in the waters, and through all the dangers the fighting mer's put them through. Go through Lily's experiences, Caldor's choices, and the decision that seals their fate.

Review written by Emily (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Promise Bound for this review.

Have you read Promise Bound? How would you rate it?

Review: Atlantis Rising by T. A. Barron

Atlantis Rising by T. A. Barron. An Atlantis Trilogy Book.

Philomel Books
Publication Date: September 2013
List Price: $17.99
ISBN-13: 9780399257575

Review: In the magical land called Ellegandia, a boy named Promi survives by stealing cakes, pastries, and all sorts of sweets. When Promi steals a cake from the Divine Monk, his entire life is turned upside down. He is thrown into a dangerous dungeon, and learns of a prophecy. A prophecy that tells of someone just like him, who will bring an end to all magic. Promi wants nothing to do with this, yet he is pulled him into a battle not only on Earth, but also within the spirit realm. T.A Barron tells of the adventures of Promi in Atlantis Rising.

Atlantis Rising was amazing the entire time. Right from the start, I was hooked. Whenever something needed explaining, it was done in an exciting style. Anytime the book got boring, it quickly jumped back into action, opening my eyes and mouth even wider. For example, when Promi is having a conversation with a monk in the dungeon, the conversation ends abruptly by a scream that echoes through the corridors. Furthermore, I was astonished by the description in this book. For instance, in the forest, the leaves are mysteriously described as their color changes. Also, the characters in this book are very well developed, and you instantly form some connection to them. (Whether it be good or bad.) For example, the monk, Bonlo, has a very short part in the story, but has a big impact. Bonlo tells about a prophecy in the land of Ellegandia before he leaves the story. Boys and girls of all ages would enjoy Atlantis Rising. It is full of diverse, exciting moments, but still has a fantastic storyline.

Review written by Josh (6th grade student).

We would like to thank T. A. Barron for providing a copy of Atlantis Rising for this review.

Have you read Atlantis Rising? How would you rate it?

Review: Tree Girl by T. A. Barron

Tree Girl by T. A. Barron.

Puffin Books
Publication Date: October 2001
List Price: $7.99
ISBN-13: 9780142427088

Review: Where did you find me? Rowanna asks her guardian, Mellwyn. Although at one time he was a stranger, Rowanna gets to know him. Were her parents tree ghosts? Where were they? Those three questions Rowanna is dying for him to answer. Tree Girl is a riveting story about how a girl struggles with trying to understand her life with the forest. She has always told never to go into the willow. She has been told to never speak of it. She has also been told never to ask about herself and the willow. So, what is in the willow?

Rowanna was found as a baby in the high willow down inside the great forest that stretches in front of her house. Her house is small, very small. It has one room, a kitchen, and one bed that fits into it. She is pretty much alone on this island, except for her guardian, a fisherman with a ruffed up beard. He is the man that found Rowanna and took her in. With a giant forest to one side and a giant ocean to the other, not many people would want to live there. But, Rowanna does, she is crafty and smart and knows how to make things out of twigs. She also knows how to plant and make her plants thrive. She is motherly and brings in a sick, wounded bird nursing it to health. But Rowanna is also very curious, especially about herself and her family É her real family. She wants to know where she came from, were her parents there, did the man see her parents, did her parents love her, who were they, and who see was. Rowanna has asked where what the willow was like several times, but the man won't tell. She doesn't know why. Why is so bad to say? She doesn't know if there are tree ghosts there or not because she has never been there. Rowanna needs answers and she isn't getting them.

Tree Girl is a suspenseful, interesting, and compelling book. Many people can to relate to Rowanna's problem and life. The book has a great setting putting the story in the perfect location to imagine Rowanna's life and problems. The story has a great exposition that really setts the story up for the dangers and journeys Rowanna will have in the future. I love the characters and their characteristics; it gives the story a feel and interest; like Mellwyn is a rough sailorman, and Rowanna is a likeable well-behaved girl. The jargon in the story also gives interest like, "Claw ye to bleddin' shreds, they will. Or crush ye, bones and all, with their graspin' feet." I recommend Tree Girl to people who love fantasy and adventure. This book will appeal to readers in middle and high school. Even though the jargon is a little hard to understand sometimes if read over a few times the younger ages will understand. I hope other young readers will come to know this book and get a sense of how lucky kids are to have a family that loves them. You will only find out what happens to Rowanna in the High Willow if you sit down and enjoy this phenomenal book. You won't be able to put it down until you finish it!

Review written by Jamie (6th grade student).

We would like to thank T. A. Barron for providing a copy of Tree Girl for this review.

Have you read Tree Girl? How would you rate it?

Review: Remnants Season of Wonder by Lisa T. Bergren

Remnants Season of Wonder by Lisa T. Bergren. A Remnant Book.

Blink
Publication Date: April 2014
List Price: $15.99
ISBN-13: 9780310735649

Review: What is it like to have the world's fate on your shoulders? Lisa T. Bergren hands us a promising new book, Remnants; Season of Wonder, where the wasteland of Earth's ghost, teetering on the edge of darkness, is painted through Andriana's eyes. A promising start of a new series, this book will surely attract attention from across the nation.

Andriana is special. Not just any sort of special, but truly special. She was born on the 7th day of the 7th month on the 77th Harvest, and since birth, has been destined to defend the human race from the abominations that infest their lives. Andriana, her knight protector, Ronan, and only a few other remnants, must travel far and wide to help all sympathetic to their cause, while fighting the evil that has caused so much wrong. Danger and the Sons of Sheol close in on the Remnants and Knights, endangering all of humanity. Even as the peril inflames, Andriana finds that her feelings for Ronan soars. She must control her feelings in order to avoid jeopardizing the mission, lest she doom the entire human race.

Remnants; Season of Wonder is generally, a good book. The action, the adventure, and the intrigue within the cover will capture the attention of all readers. However, there are some cons that several readers may have concern of. The romance associated with the story will dull the experience for several boys. Inferred from the romance, the book will be generally more suited for the girls, ages 13 to 18. Despite this, there are several other things that must be accounted as good in Remnants. The storyline is well thought-out, has many rather interesting events within the plot, and interesting characters with distinct personalities. The storyline, (much of which I will not reveal) had well-positioned events that add excitement and shock to the reader, along with several moments of combat and romance, both positioned in several fine places along the plot as a good attempt to provide the same amazing experience for both genders. There were many plot twists and story game-changers that occurred within the storyline, along with several discoveries made by the Remnants that will remind us of our everyday life, and how much has changed. Many of the characters were not forgotten, but instead were given distinct personalities that will give each a discrete feel. A list of an example would be Niero, Vidar, Bellona, and Killian. (Sorry, not revealing the personalities, you have to find out yourself!) Overall, Remnants; Season of Wonder, is a great start for any series, splendidly showing lots of promise and potential. Even though I've never quite read a ÒromanceÓ book, it certainly shows lots of promise with the unique blend of combat and romance. As you dig deeper into the story, you will understand that it is worth the time and money to get the full series. (Or wait.) Lisa T. Bergren has certainly started a new series proudly displaying lots of promise and much of that feeling that we would call excitement.

Review written by Vincent (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Blink for providing a copy of Remnants Season of Wonder for this review.

Have you read Remnants Season of Wonder? How would you rate it?

Review: Seven Stories Up by Laurel Snyder

Seven Stories Up by Laurel Snyder.

Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: January 2014
List Price: $16.99
ISBN-13: 9780375869174

Review: What if 50 years just melted away? Well, Annie Jaffin experiences her grandmother's lonely childhood right along with her as if 50 years had just melted away. In Seven Stories Up, it shows compassion and love like you have never known before.

Annie Jaffin visits her dying grandmother for the first time and finds out that her grandmother is someone she would never love. But when Annie wakes up, a strange girl is in her room. The girl introduces herself as Molly Moran, Annie's grandmother. Annie is shocked to see her grandmother at such a young age. But over time, they get to know one another and they start sneaking out. But when Molly starts getting in more and more trouble, the duo start to suffer the consequences. Find out the rest by reading Seven Stories Up.

My favorite character is Molly because she starts out by obeying the rules set by her father, but then she goes outside and starts getting sneakier. Annie is also one of my favorite characters because she encourages Molly to be sneaky and keeps her company in the Lonely Room. The plot is great because it is so unique being able to you're your dying grandmother as a little girl. The mood of Seven Stories Up also changes from good to sneaky and even scared. I recommend this book to children and preteens because the plot is

Review written by Christian (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of Seven Stories Up for this review.

Have you read Seven Stories Up? How would you rate it?

Review: The Mirror of Fate by T. A. Barron

The Mirror of Fate by T. A. Barron. A Merlin Book.

Puffin Books
Publication Date: May 2011
List Price: $6.99
ISBN-13: 9780142419229

Review: Have you ever fought marsh ghouls, kings, giants and other wizards? I think not. In the book Merlin the Mirror of Fate, by T.A. Barron, Merlin is a destined to be the greatest wizard there ever was. He is a determined boy that is willing to get anything done- no matter the consequences he will get the job done. This book is the fourth book in the Merlin Series.

There is something strange happening on the mystical island of Fincayra and Merlin has found the problem. He has faced this place once before, and he doesn't want to face it again. It is the Haunted Marsh. He must visit frightening places and tackle challenges within him. He is on the verge of dying, and the mirror of fate can ultimately save his life. It is a portal of time, but very few people make it out of the portal. Many question remain, Will he make it out? Will he die? Find it out in Merlin the Mirror of Fate.

I love Merlin the Mirror of Fate. It has the most interesting plot I have ever read. It explains the story line and characters in the story so well, that I can picture the world of Fincayra in my mind. This book is intended, for, readers 10 and up. This book is definitely good for a boy, reader, but some girls who enjoy Merlin's fantasy world may love it as well. Every Merlin book is equally thrilling. If you see more literature by this T.A. Barron, make sure you read it. I recommend this series, and I recommend the author.

Review written by Matthew (6th grade student).

We would like to thank T. A. Barron for providing a copy of The Mirror of Fate for this review.

Have you read The Mirror of Fate? How would you rate it?

Review: The Seven Songs by T. A. Barron

The Seven Songs by T. A. Barron. A Merlin Book.

Puffin Books
Publication Date: May 2011
List Price: $7.99
ISBN-13: 9780142419205

Review: Merlin has finally returned hope in Fincayra. But danger still lies waiting to strike, and the first to be hit is none other than Merlin's mother. Who is next? Can Merlin save his mother and Fincayra from certain doom? Will Merlin die on his quest? T.A. Barron will answer all in the 2nd book The Seven Songs from the Merlin Saga.

In the past, Merlin or Emirs the name he knew, had adventured to the land of Fincayra to find his past. He learned about it threw many trials, and changed from an ignorant boy to a sharp man. Since then the land changed from a dark, gloomy, and controlled place to a joyful one where everyone is able to talk, sing, and write freely. Merlin, now knowing his past, wants to bring Fincayra to its former glory.

This spellbinding book begins with Merlin thinking about his past, first Tuatha, his deceased grandfather and great wizard. He remembers him saving Rhia, his tree-like friend, from his father's hand Stagmar who is being controlled by the dark mastermind Rhita Gawr. Then he remembers when he was given the Flowering Harp to restore the lands that Rhita Gawr once controlled. But then he is interrupted with the thought of his mother, and his longing for her to join him. This drives Merlin to forget his duties and return her to Fincayra. As it turns out, this decision is a grave mistake because she has been cursed and is destined to die. So Merlin sets out on a quest to gain the secrets of the seven songs to go to Dagada for help. Will Merlin succeed, or fall to the life-changing challenges ahead? Will Merlin's mother die?

The Seven Songs is an excellent book for elementary and middle-school students as it is not challenging to read and has a relatively easy vocabulary and plot structure. This book in fact will make readers sit on the edge of their seat waiting to see what happens next. Fantasy and magic lovers will enjoy this book like none other, due to its enchanting adventures throughout the land or into a mysterious realm of spirits. You readers think you can predict Merlin, well think again. The Seven Songs is full of surprises that can never be imagined. Also there is a very unique exposition where the setting of the story is the magical floating island Fincayra with dark hills, reflecting lakes, and unseen creatures. In addition the plot includes many twists and turns that make a coaxing atmosphere. Realistic fiction readers will enjoy this book too. It includes many challenges that are faced in real life such as dealing with your adamant sister, or sticking up for yourself. Plus The Seven Songs is in a series, so you can read many more of Merlin's adventures, and the excitement doesn't end. Just get The Seven Songs and other books in the series by T.A. Barron to start your reading adventure.

Review written by Tej (6th grade student).

We would like to thank T. A. Barron for providing a copy of The Seven Songs for this review.

Have you read The Seven Songs? How would you rate it?

Review: The Heartlight Saga by T. A. Barron

The Heartlight Saga by T. A. Barron.

Puffin Books
Publication Date: February 2014
List Price: $10.99
ISBN-13: 9780147510327

Review: One girl, Kate Gordon, and three fantastic adventures are featured in The Heartlight Saga. In T. A. Barron's Heartlight, the story tells about Kate and her grandfather's adventures. The Ancient One is about the adventures of Kate and her Aunt Melanie. In The Merlin Effect, Kate and her dad are the main characters. There are three different books published in one book so the readers will never have to wait to see what happens next.

In Heartlight, Kate Gordon's grandfather creates something called PCL, or pure condensed light, which is in all stars. The sun and a distant star named Trethoniel are losing their supply of PCL and the only one who can save them is Kate and her grandfather. In The Ancient One, Kate and her Aunt Melanie venture into a crater, which is going to be stripped of its forest. As Kate tries to save it she travels back in time and gets stuck there for a while. Finally in The Merlin Effect, Kate and her father are traveling through the sea trying to find the Horn of Merlin, which can grant eternal life. But it is not as easy as it seems, because it is hidden in a ship that may or may not exist.

T. A. Barron is an excellent author. He makes the characters in the book come to life. Each book is unique in what the story is about, but each book is tied together through the main character, Kate. Heartlight shows the bond between family members. It includes stories about science and is recommended for people that like sci-fi, The Ancient One shows magic and time travel, and The Merlin Effect shows the troubles between father and daughter and how they deal with the problems and resolve them together. It uses magic and mostly science to keep people reading. It is recommended for all readers between the ages 9 and 14 who enjoy science fiction and fantasy. The whole Heartlight saga is a great trilogy.

That sends important messages through science, science fiction, and fantasy to interest any reader.

Review written by Jarred (6th grade student).

We would like to thank T. A. Barron for providing a copy of The Heartlight Saga for this review.

Have you read The Heartlight Saga? How would you rate it?