The Otherside of the Mountain by Allegra Goodman

The Otherside of the Mountain by Allegra Goodman

Summary: Ten year old Honor and her parents move to a set of islands in the Tranquil sea where a protecful closure is beaing built. It is a time after the apocolyptic floodcame and caused human kind to rebuild. When she gets used to her new life things start to change. Her parents soon go missing. Could it be because they were critisizing the new government? the government has a cruel secret that Honor's about to find out...

Genre: science fiction

Rank: 4/5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to read an exciting book. The author's new, fresh idea is very exciting to read about. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen at the end. I really hope there will be a sequal because their wasn't a great ending. Things were left un-told so I really want to find out what happens!

Reviewed by Anna S. in grade 10

Bridge of San Luis Rey by Thorton Wilder

Bridge of San Luis Rey by Thorton Wilder

Summary: This is a classic tale of fate. It starts with a Limeanmonk who scientifically tried to figure out the mystery of the accident of a bridge collapse and its victims. The next chapters describe the 5 people who died in the accident. In the end it shows that all are linked in a way. The final chapter summarizes everything that happened and perhaps that they were all fated to die together.

Genre: historical fiction

Rank: 3/5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to people who enjoy reading and learning of poeple's lives of long ago. Also the book would interest those who want to learn more about fate and the way that everyone is linked. I only gave this a 3 because it it didnt really interest me as much as I thought even though there were some parts that were really good. All in all I think books that are mostly historic are boring.

Reviewed by Anna S. in grade 10

Breathe by Penni Russon

Breathe by Penni Russon

Summary: A sequel to Undine, Breathe continues the story of 16 year old Undine who discovers her magical gift of controlling the elements. Throughout the story Trout reaches "manhood" as he goes to parties and walks alone at night. Later he meets a girl and they both try to find Undine to solve their theory of chaos. Undine, meanwhile goes to Greece with her family and learns the connection between her parents. In the end she finally discovers whether she should let the magic grow or hide it forever.

Genre: fantasy

Rank:3/5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: This book is recommended to people who enjoy the aftermath of magic. Magic here is very powerful in people and in them forever. This book is good for people who try and understand magic scientifically. This book is a 3 because it didnt have many details or explain some things. Also the ending was very unclear.

Reviewed by Anna S. in grade 10

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel

Summary: A sequel to Evermore, here Ever is learning more and more about her immortal powers. Finally she feels that she has all she ever wanted; but as Damean but once he starts getting mysteriously sick she wonders if the new kid, Roman, is causing it. When everyone, including Damean turn against her, Ever decides to take action. She goes to find Ava and goes to Summerland in order to save everyone. Once Ever finds out that she can go back in time she has to decide who to save, her family or Damean.

Genre: fantasy

Rank: 5/5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: This book is just as good as the first! This tells a great love story This tells a great love story with alot of sudden twists and turns. Blue Moon is really a page turner and I would recommend this book to those who enjoy love and magic. Also Twilight fans would love it! This is 5 stars because Alyson Noel once again wrote a great story. It has great originality and description!

Reviewed by Anna S. in grade 10

The Ashleys by Melissa de la Cruz

The Ashleys by Melissa de la Cruz

Summary: Lauren Page goes to Miss Gambles Prep School, where the AShley's- Ashley Spencer, Ashley "LiLi" Li, and Ashley "A.A." Alioto- rule the school. They are rich, fashionable and all have teased Lauren since kindergarten. But this year, Lauren's dads website hits the jackpot and she goes frm flab to fab. This is the first step in taking down the Ashley's. But at a sleepover Lauren gets pranked and says things she cant take back. Will she become one or will she destroy them?

Genre: realistic fiction

Rank: 3.5/5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: Although this book is similar to the Clique series, there is one key difference: Lauren wants to destroy the clique and Clare wanted to get in. This book is funny and you end up rooting for Lauren. Well written with some new words to expand my vocabulary. Each character has their own personality as well as their own dilemas. overall a pretty good book.

Reviewed by Anique B. in grade 8

Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident by Eoin Colfer

Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident by Eoin Colfer

Summary: In the sequel, Artemis may have found his father. Meanwhile, the LEPRecon team works to eliminate the triad. Now Artemis must work with his enemy, Captain Holly Short, to take down the triad. He also has to find his father. What will happen?!

Genre: fantasy

Rank: 5/5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone. I know a lot of people who also who have read and loved this story. I rated this book a 5 because it had great dialogue, the characters were well described and it always kept me reading. Every chapter ended with a cliff hanger, especially the end of the book. It had everything you could ever want in a book!

Reviewed by Dallas S. in grade 7

It's a Mall World After All by Jannette Rallison

It's a Mall World After All by Jannette Rallison

Summary: Casey works at a mall. She is in highschool so she recognizes everyone at the mall. It's a place for all of the students to go and hang out or relax. Casey spots her bffs boyfriend one day but he's with another girl! How can she tell Hannah and how can she prove it?

Genre: realisitc fiction

Rank: 5/5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because you want to keep reading it. Also it's very descriptive. It makes you think about highschool and getting a job. I gave this book a 5 because I think it is the best book out there. The author makes you feel and think like Casey, which is really cool! I love this book!!

Reviewed by Abby Z. in grade 8

My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison

My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison

Summary: Savannah just got dumped by her perfect boyfriend for her sister. Wishing her life was bettera fair godmother grants Savannah 3 wishes. She gets stuck in the Middle Ages and it's up to her and unlikely hottie to get her back home.

Genre: fantasy, humor

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to all who like fantasy. I would recommend this book to grades 6 and up. I love the new spins on this classic tale. I could really relate to the characters. This book was a great way for you to relate to the medeval times. I wish there was even more to this book. This book kept me hooked!

Reviewed by Lizzie C. in grade 7

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

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

Summary: This is the last of the seven part series. Harry, Ron and Hermione don't attend their final year at Hogwarts. Instead, they set out on a quest to try and destroy Valdemort. They face many dangerous and magical blocks that prolongs the success or failure of their quest.

Genre: fantasy

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this to any fantasy lover but strongly suggest they read the other ones in the series first. Parts are slow and the beginning is not full of action. But the ending is very exciting and some what confusing. But after discussing it with others who had read the book it all became clear. It is a thrilling tale that everyone should read.

Reviewed by Charlotte C. in grade 10

Willow King by Chris Platt

Willow King by Chris Platt

Summary: After bugging Tom Ellis, the stable owner, he finally said yesto Katie working at the stable. Then a new colt is born with crooked legs. Tom was going to put him down but katie makes a trade and keeps the colt. Will the colt pull through? Will he live to see another day?

Genre: realistic fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book because it shows a story of courage. This book also has a lesson to learn. Willow King has ups and downs. It always leaves you in suspense. You always want to read more.

Reviewed by Morgan H. in grade 6

Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket

A Series of Unfortunate Events: Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket

Summary: This book was very mysterious and treacherous yet adventurous story. The author did a phenomenal job writing this book. it's about 3 children, Violet, Klaus and Sunny. Unfortunately, their parents perished in a fire. Join them on the beginning of their journey of avoiding their villainous Uncle, Olaf.

Genre: mystery, fantasy

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because this book is one that I believe anyone would enjoy. They would really enjoy this book if they enjoyed fantasy, adventure or mysteries. The reason for my ranking is, I couldn't put this book down as soon as i started reading it. This is a phenomenal book that everyone should read.

Reviewed by Nicolletta D. in grade 6

P.S: Longer, Letter, later by Paula Danziger and Ann M. Martin

P.S: Longer, Letter, Later by Paula Danziger and Ann M. Martin

Summary: Very sad on the beginning. :( These two authors did a very nice job of writing this book as two girls writing back and fourth to each other. This book is about a girl named Tara and Elizabeth. Then one day Tara moves away and the only way to keep in touch is through writing.

Genre: humor, realistic fiction

Rank: 4/5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I ranked this book a 4 because I thought the authors should have written more story in between the letters that were being sent back and fourth. Even though this book was ranked a 4, I still would recommend this book to a friend because the way these two girls are writing to each other is fantastic! If you were reading this book with me you would know hoe I feel.

Reviewed by Nicollette D. in grade 6

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume

Summary: This was a very humorous book to read. The way she wrote it she used really good vocabulary to describe every situation. I recognized a lot of figuritive language. There are a lot of crazy things going on in this boo, especially "outside the house." This book is for anyone who liked to get a little crazy.

Genre: humor, realistic fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I chose this ranking because it was one of the best books I have read in a long, long time. I have now read it around 8 times! Judy Blume is an amazing author. I would recommend this book to a friend because I want someone to share and enjoy the comedy with me and laugh as hard as I do. In my opinion, Judy Blume is a phenomenal author and should keep writing more books.

Reviewed by Nicolletta D. in grade 6

Meet Samantha: An American Girl by Susan Adler

Meet Samantha: An American Girl by Susan Adler

Summary: When you look at the cover, you look at a girl who seems happy and she is wearing early 19th century clothing. When I looked at the cover I just knew I wanted to learn everything about her and her family. And that is exactly what happened when I picked it up and started reading it.

Genre: historical fiction

Rank: 3 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I gave this book a 3 because even though it was a good book, there were some parts that really bored me. I just wanted to stop reading and put it down and pick up another book. I would recommend this this book to a friend because just because I didn't like it, doesn't mean they won't.

Reviewed by Nicolletta D. in grade 6

Garfield Weighs In by Jim Davis

Garfield Weighs In by Jim Davis

Summary: It's funny, irresistable and you can't stop reading it. Jim Davis is a wonderful artist and author! The way he writes is phenomenol!! The moment you read the cover you'll be glad you picked it up. Garfield's personality is just delightful!

Genre: humor, graphic novel

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because someone has to understand the humor I found in this book! Garfield is one big, hilarious, fat cat, and that's what I love about him. I gave this a 5 because I could never put this book down. You learn about all the characters too; John; Odie; and Garfield!!

Reviewed by Nicolletta D. in grade 6

New Moon by Stephanie Meyer

New Moon by Stephanie Meyer

Summary: In this book Bella starts becoming close with Jacob Black after Edward mysteriously leaves her. When Bella becomes desperate to try dangerous things she asks Jacob to help her learn how to ride a motorcycle. Bella and Jacob slowly get closer and closer while Bella believes that Edward no longer loves her. When Edward returns with shatering news Bella learns that she has very hard decisions to make.

Genre: fantasy

Rank: 4 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it has action in it. This book is full of adventure. This book also has some parts in it that were hard for me to fully understand and follow. I rated this book a 4 because it is not always on topic. I thinkn it could have had more detail too, but that's just me.

Reviewed by Daniel C. in grade 8

My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison

My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison

Summary: This great book is about a girl named Savannah Delano. After her boyfriend dumps her for her older sister, a "fair" godmother, Chrissy Everstar, shows up to grant her 3 wishes. Little does Savannah know that Chrissy mixes up her wish for a prom date. Savannah is sent back to the Middle Ages instead. Once as Cinderella, once as Snow White and once to save a boy named Tristan. They have to fight trolls, dragons and the Black Knight to get back to modern times together.

Genre: fantasy, humor

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book because it was cleverly written. I love all the witiness. I rated it a 5 because it was very funny! Also, it turned out to be a lot more adventurous than I thought it was going to be! Also, the fling between Savannah and tristan is so cute! This is definitely one of Janette Rallison's best stories!

Reviewed by Lauren D. in grade 9

Princess in Love by Meg Cabot

Princess in love by Meg Cabot

Summary: This is the third book in the princess Diaries series. it is about Mia and her new boyfriend, Kenny. He was her secret admirer in the previous book. the truth is, she likes her best friend's brother, michael. But now michael has a girlfriend too. Mia is determined that Michael doesn't like her. Will she get her happily ever after?

Genre: humor, realistic fiction

Rank: 4 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it's witty, humorous and romantic. Also, Mia is my age so i can relate to how she feels in this book. I rated this book a 4 because it was very good, but not as good as the other two in the series. I loved how it ended, though!I can't wait to read the next book in the series!

Reviewed by Lauren D. in grade 9

Best Friends For Never by Lisi Harrison

Best Friends For Never by Lisi Harrison

Summary: THis is the 2nd book in the Clique Series. Massie decides to throw her school's first boy/ girl Halloween party! The problem is, she has to throw it with "fashion no" Claire. Also, Dylan and Kristin like the same guy. On top of it all, Alicia may be out of the Clique... or trying to take over!!

Genre: humor, realistic fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it is a fun, new book. It's exciting too! I rated it a 5 because it was funny, witty and it kept me on the edge of my seat! I couldn't put it down! I can't wait to read the next book in the series!!

Reviewed by Lauren D. in grade 9

The Summer Clique: Massie by Lisi Harrison

The Summer Clique: Massie by Lisi Harrison

Summary: This book is about Massie Block. After she's kicked out of her exclusive riding camp, her parents force her to get a job. She desides to be a sales rep for Be Pretty, a cosmetics brand. At first she loves her new job. Then she realizes that it may be harder than she thinks.

Genre: humor, realistic fiction

Rank: 4 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it was interesting! Also, it was really funny. I rated this book a 4 because it wasn't the best book ever but it was really exciting. I can't wait to read the other books in the Summer Clique series!!

Reviewed by First Name Last initial in grade __

Things That Are by Andrew Clements

Things that Are by Andrew Clements

Summary: This is the third book in the series. It brings Bobby and Alicia back together. Bobby, however, is beig followed by an unwanted friend. Alicia lets this man in and the only option is to change him back. After they do their fright he sends them a letter.

Genre: science fiction

Rank: 3 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book but only after reading the other two. "Things Not Seen," "THings Hoped For" and "Things That Are" are the three books in this series. I gave it a three because it was not as good as the first two. I liked this book but it lacked the mystery that the other two had. I think the author could write alot of short stories based on the characters in this book. Overall, this was a great book.

Reviewed by Samantha B. in grade 9

Faketastic by Alexa Young

Faketastic by Alexa Young

Summary: This is the second Frenemies novel. It is about Halley and Avalon. In this book, Avalon has to choose between her cheerleading friends or Halley. But when Halley spots Avalon flirting with her crush, she gets mad. Will they be able to stay friends through it all???

Genre: humor, realistic fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because its funny! Also, it was very up- to- date. i rated this book a 5. I rated it a 5 because it was funny, witty and exciting! This book kept me on the edge of my seat, wanthing more. I can't wait to read the next one!

Reviewed by Lauren D. in grade 9

Wild Roses by Deb Caletti

Wild Roses by Deb Caletti

Summary: This book is about a 17 year old girl named Cassie Morgan. She lives with her step father, Dino Cavelli. He is a world renowned violin player and composer. To Cassie, he's a selfish bully. Ian Waters is Dino's first student. Cassie thought she knew that love would bring pain. The consequences of this union will be tougher than ever.

Genre: humor, realistic fiction

Rank: 4 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it was a great story. It was funny and romantic. I rated it a 4 because it was kind of sad. Also, this book kept me on the edge of my seat. I was anxious to know what happened next! Wild Roses is a great book!

Reviewed by Lauren D. in grade 9

Hot Lunch by Alex Bradley

Hot Lunch by Alex Bradley

Summary: This book is about two girls named Molly and Cassie. Molly doesn't like Cassie. They get in a food fight. It results in them having to serve lunch duty. Their only hope to escape is to cook good food and earn their way out. Will they be able to work together or will they be stuck in the kitchen forever?

Genre: humor, realistic fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it was soo funny!! It was exciting! I rated it a 5 because it was one of the best books I've read.I couldn't put it down. The story was great as well! I would definetely read this book again!

Reviewed by Lauren D. in grade 9

A Book of Coupons by Susie Morgenstern

A Book of Coupons by Susie Morgenstern

Summary: This book is about a French school that has a teacher who gives out a book of coupons to all of his students. This school had a mean principal who yells at everyone. In the school there was no gym teacher and the teacher in the classroom decide what other classes you have to take.

Genre: realistic fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it is funny. This book is also full of different events. I rated this book a 5 because it was easy to follow. The book also did not switch topics. This book also had a lesson it taught me. It taught me to use things wisely, but don't wait because you might lose them.

Reviewed by Daniel C. in grade 8

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

Summary: In the beginning of this book Bella moves to Forks, Washington to live with her Dad. Bella then falls in love with a vampire named Edward. She wants to be with him forever but when trouble hits Forks will her true love stay with her or will all be lost?

Genre: fantasy, romance

Rank: 4 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it was full of action. it is also very suspensful. I rated this book a 4 because at some points it was not easy to read. The book was a lot of fun and I loved the romance. I'm a huge romantic so I thought the story was magical!

Reviewed by Daniel C. in grade 8

The Electronic Mind Reader by John Blaine

The Electronic Mind Reader by John Blaine

Summary: The Splindrift Scientists are asked to help solve a case for the government. The case they get assigned to is a troubling one. There are scientists who are working on this machine and one by one they are getting injured. Can they find out whats going wrong in time before they too get injured?

Genre: science fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it is full of action and adventure. I was at the edge of my seat every moment I was reading this. It was so hard for me to put it down. In fact, I read this book in one night. I love to read now!!

Reviewed by Daniel C. in grade 8

The Golden Skull by John Blaine

The Golden Skull by John Blaine

Summary: In this book, the scientists from Spindrift Island, New Jersey are on the way to the Philippine Mountains. Then they get attacked by a Philippine Native! The scientists were on their way to search for the Golden Skull. Will they ever find it though?

Genre: science fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it is full of action and adventure. This book also has many unexpected plot twists! I loved it. I also would recommend this book to a friend because the type of science they do is so cool. it makes me want to maybe even be a scientist one day.

Reviewed by Daniel C. in 8th grade

The Wailing Octopus by John Blaine

The Wailing Octopus by John Blaine

Summary: In this book, Splindrift scientists go treasure hunting. While treasure hunting they thought they found a Wailing Octopus. The wail they heard did not actually come from an octopus. What did it come from and what will they find?

Genre: science fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it is full of action and adventure. This book also has many awesome cliffhangers in it. I rated this book a 5 because it stayed on topic. I also would recommend this book to a friend because it talks about science. This book also tells me some different types of scientists.

Reviewed by Daniel C. in grade 8

The Scarlet Lake Mystery by John Blaine

The Scarlet Lake Mystery by John Blaine

Summary: In this book, written in 1958, Spindrift scientists go to Nevada to work on rockets. These rockets are being sabotaged and pieces being stolen. The scientists go and take chargeof this project. Rick, one of the scientists gets caught in the rocket and ends up being the first human in space. Will he make it back down to Earth?

Genre: science fiction

Rank: 5 out of 5

Would you recommend this book to a friend? yes

Review: I would recommend this book to a friend because it's full of action and adventure. This bookalso has a lot of cliffhangers in it. i rated this book a 5 because it talks about science. This book also taught me alot about scientists.

Reviewed by Daniel C. in 8th grade