Mini Reviews 11: The Last of the Pre-Baby Books!

So, I'm FINALLY finishing up the reviews for books I read before I had the baby.  That's stuff I read last spring pretty much.  Ugh, I will probably never catch up, but hey, one step at a time. Also, gratuitous photo of my adorable baby.  You're welcome!

The Way We Fall by Megan Crewe
Publisher: Recorded Books
Publication date: January 2012
Length: 7 hrs, 15 min
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun
Series: Fallen World, Book 1

Kaelyn's world is turned upside down when a new deadly virus hits her island home.  As people all around her fall prey to its effects, the government closes the borders of the island in an attempt to contain the infection.  As supplies dwindle and hope seems to fade with it, Kaelyn must fight for supplies and her life as she desperately tries to find a cure.

My Thoughts:
I thought the book shows a fairly balanced view of what an epidemic might look like.  I think we see a lot of this in the real world - people who help out after natural disasters, but also the violence and looting.  I thought it was a bit unrealistic that they ended up with zero communication from outside their island.  Also it seemed like the research of the virus was brushed over lightly.  I would have liked to see more of that.  And the ending left a lot of things ambivalent.  I wanted to have a few more answers.  (I just found out it's a series, of course.)  However, a lot of futuristic books tend to look at only the bleak and horrible.  It was kind of a nicer, lighter look at it.  Also, I thought it was interesting to watch it unfold in such an isolated area.  It would have been a much different book if it took place in an urban setting.  I enjoyed the audiobook, with narrator Sisi Aisha Johnson doing a decent job of the teen girl voice.
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Will Sparrow's Road by Karen Cushman
Publisher: Listening Library
Publication date: November 2012
Length: 5 hrs, 9 min
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun

When Will runs away, he must survive on his thieving skills to get him by.  But after a series of cons in which he is the loser, he becomes more wary of trusting anyone.  When he falls in with a traveling troupe filled with unusual characters, he must decide if he can trust true friends.

My Thoughts:
I adore Cushman's historical novels.  They are always so well-researched and realistic.  The details!  The Quirky characters!  Didn't hurt that I listened to the audio narrated by my favorite, Katherine Kellgren.  The story was a bit hard to follow as it seemed to meander a lot.  It made it harder for me to care about Will.  But when he hooks up with the oddities and prodigies, it gets much better.  It was so interesting to see what life might have been like for people who were different back then.
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The Arctic Incident by Eoin Colfer
Publisher: Listening Library
Publication date: 2004 (audio version)
Length: 6 hrs, 10 min
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun
Series: Artemis Fowl, Book 2

   

When Artemis receives an urgent message from his father, who's been kidnapped by the Russian Mafiya, he sets off to rescue him.  But he must enlist the aid of the fairy folk, including Captain Holly Short, if he wants to return alive.

My Thoughts:
These books are so entertaining!  I adore the audio versions too, because the narrator, Nathaniel Parker, is fantastic with voices and characterization.  Although sometimes because it was on audio, I felt like I got lost when they'd use weird terms, especially for their technology.  However, I love the quirky and completely off the wall stuff that happens.  Artemis is sufficiently genius and annoying, as well as endearing.  I just love the fun plots, the great characters, and the fabulous fantasy elements.  It totally reminds me of a tech-oriented Harry Potter, but less dark and more entertaining.
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The Eternity Code by Eoin Colfer
Publisher: Listening Library
Publication date: 2004 (audio version)
Length: 6 hrs, 58 min
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun
Series: Artemis Fowl, Book 3

When Artemis creates a supercomputer with the aid of some illegal fairy technology, he finds himself at the mercy of a ruthless business man, determined to gain access to this technology.  In order to save himself and the fairies, Artemis must once again enlist the aid of Holly Short and her friends.

My Thoughts:
I love the quirky characters and the world that Eoin Colfer has created for these characters.  I was entertained by Artemis' schemes and by how he and the fairy people had to work together.  I love the sarcasm and the wit, particularly from Holly.  Butler and his sister are also fun to listen to with fantastic accents (I love the audio, thanks again Nathaniel Parker).  It was a clever plot too, with plenty of twists I never saw coming, though at times it seemed to be trying a bit too hard to be clever or surprising.  There were a few places where I thought some things lacked a good explanation.  Overall, though, lots of fun and it captured my attention, which is a huge bonus while I'm driving.
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Spies and Prejudice by Talia Vance
Publisher: EgmontUSA
Publication date: June 2013
Pages: 304
Source: ARC from publisher
For: Review

Berry Fields is busy being a PI and accumulating evidence of affairs that seem the norm for all men.  But when Tanner Halston storms her life, at once being uninterested and then seeming to show up all the time, she's a bit thrown.  Until all of them are drawn into a deadly investigation that may leave more questions than answers.

My Thoughts:
While I was not completely enamoured of this book, I have to admit I kind of got sucked into it.  I wanted to know what happened to Berry's mom and what role each of the boys played in it. Honestly, I thought there wasn't much point to adding in the Pride and Prejudice story line.  It didn't fit quite right, though I did enjoy some nods to the original.  I thought it would have been stronger if it was just more of a spy/espionage/mystery than trying to be a retelling too.  I'm not that clever at figuring things out, but I did actually guess a part of what happened to her mom. Despite some boring parts and a few ridiculous mistakes on Berry's part, not to mention the implausibility of the entire story, it was quick and entertaining.

Any thoughts on any of these books?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Out of Sight, Out of Time by Ally Carter

Out of Sight, Out of Time by Ally Carter
Publisher: Disney/Hyperion
Publication date: March 2012
Pages: 304
Source: Library
For: Fun
Series: Gallagher Girls, Book 5

When Cammie wakes up in a remote convent far from home, she is understandably confused. But, when she discovers she's forgotten the last several months of her life, confused doesn't begin to cover it. Chased and possibly caught by the Circle of Cavan, facing hostile friends she left behind, unsure of what she said and did, Cammie wants desperately to remember what she did. But there are some who don't want her to remember. At any cost.

Things I Liked:
My opinion of this series has certainly changed over the course of the books.  For the better.  It's evolved, for me, from fluff to substance, I think.  I'm always swept away in the exciting spy-packed stories from this series, but this one was particularly interesting.  It's darker and more sinister than previous books.  But, it also still has the humor and fun of the others too.  I loved watching Cammie try to unravel her summer and also unravel who she is and what she wants.  It had plenty of surprises, fun twists, and action scenes.  Plus, what person doesn't secretly want to be a spy and go on missions to fabulous foreign lands? 

Things I Didn't Like:
I have to admit that even more than usually in this series, I had to suspend my belief.  Most of this came at the end, but still.  And I did see some of the twists coming, but not everything.  I kinda wish we had gotten a little more of the story progressing than we did, but I'll be interested to see what happens in the next book. 

Read-alikes:
Read the first four Gallagher Girls books first
Heist Society series by Ally Carter


BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
maybe one or two...

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
I did mention it was a bit darker, right?  Also a bit more violent.

Overall rating: ****

Guess I don't read a lot of spy books.  Any other read-alikes you guys can think of?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Variant by Robison Wells

Variant by Robison Wells
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 384
Source: ARC provided by publisher
For: Review
Series: Variant, Book 1

When Benson gets a scholarship to a remote private school in New Mexico, he thinks it's the beginning of a new life.  But when he arrives at a school with no adults, gangs of students, and no way out, he is definitely not prepared.  As the mysteries of this school just keep piling up, Benson is determined to escape, no matter the cost. 

Things I Liked:
What an action-packed and twisty story!  I loved how the plot built the tension slowly and carefully, how Benson wondered about everything and everyone.  I was enthralled by the different attitudes and personalities that were portrayed by students all in the same position.  I was pretty much blown away by the surprises and stunned at everything that happened, not to mention how it happened.  This is a surprising read with lots of action, suspense, and twists - not to mention psychological bending that makes you wonder if you're going crazy too!  I think this one will have a lot of boy-appeal and pretty much anyone who likes crazy action and surprise endings will love it.  (Side note: not sure how to fit this into the genre mold - not exactly dystopian, but kind of a little bit...)

Things I Didn't Like:
The characters didn't feel very developed.  The story definitely took a front stage on this one and the characters were more just a part of the action.  Benson was pretty well developed, but the minors felt very flat.  I liked Becky because she actually seemed to have some character, but most of the others just didn't have that spark.  I think Wells has a lot of potential and the writing is pretty good, but I wanted a little something more than story.  Still, couldn't quite believe what was going on and near the end my jaw was aching from being dropped so many times.  Read this one when you want something unexpected! 

Read-alikes:
The Maze Runner series by James Dashner
Lord of the Flies by William Golding

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
surprisingly few

mrg-factor: none 
just some kissing

v-factor: ->-> 
some gory fist fighting and the like

Overall rating: **** 

Which do you like more - books about story or books about characters (if you had to pick between them, of course)?

Looking for more dystopian goodness?  Be sure to stop at Presenting Lenore's Dystopian February celebration.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Mini Reviews 5: (Mostly) Audio Fun

Here we are again! I'm starting to love these minis. They are lots of fun to write and I feel less pressure when I do write them. Three of the five were audiobooks, so I figured the title was (mostly) accurate. Enjoy!


In the Hand of the Goddess by Tamora Pierce
Publisher: Various
Publication date: 1990
Pages: 256
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun
Series: Song of the Lioness, Book 2

Alanna's further adventures, as squire to Prince Jonathan, become even more dangerous as she continues to masquerade as a boy.  A dangerous and powerful magician is out to get not only her but those she cares about.

My thoughts: I loved watching Alanna grow into herself, accept herself as a woman, and learn to love.  She is still the same person, which I think is fabulous, but she has new parts to herself and has grown even more.  I thought it covered a lot of time in a very short book.  Which isn't bad, but it just seems like a lot happens and happens quickly.  I was also rather surprised at the direction it took. I figured the stuff that happened at the end would only come at the end of the entire series.  I'm happy to be wrong and look forward to seeing where the next books take me!  This was another audiobook and I still love the narrator.  She portrays Alanna so well and does a few accents to help me keep the characters separate.  I love the characters and the setting and just everything about this series.  This is my kind of story.  
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The Mark of Zorro by Johnston McCulley, adapted by Yuri Rasovsky
Publisher: Zorro Productions and Blackstone Audio
Publication date: April 2011
Source: Audiobook won from Devourer of Books
For: Fun
Series: There are lots of Zorro books

Don Diego, a foolish and weak but rich young man, is being forced into taking a wife by his father.  He attempts to woo the smart and independent Lolita Pulido.  But her heart belongs to the dashing, daring, brave Zorro, a masked menace to the corrupt officials in the town. 

My thoughts: This was a good old fashioned, swashbuckling story.  I love Zorro stories (though I've never read one, so I'm basing it on the movie), but this one was just perfect, complete with do-gooder outlaw, beautiful lady, and corrupt leaders.  While the story is a bit simplistic, black and white, and just plain obvious, I think it is meant to be that way.  And it still is charming.  I really liked the full cast narration (Val Kilmer was not hard to listen to).  The accents and the voices and the sound effects made the story truly come to life. 
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A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
Publisher: Various
Publication date: 1962
Pages: 280
Source: audiobook from the library
For: Reread (for 50th Anniversary post)
Series: A Wrinkle in Time Quartet, Book 1

Meg does not fit in anywhere in her life, at school and even at home.  She's always fighting people and in trouble.  But when she gets a chance to find her father who's disappeared and to travel with some unusual new friends, she jumps at the chance.  And life will never be the same for her and her family.

My thoughts: I've already talked about much that I liked in my post about sharing this book.  But, I love the characters and the epic journey feel of the story.  I loved how broad and how huge its scope is - travel in space and how time and science play a huge part of it.  But I also love the religious aspects.  I know many people don't, but I am a religious person and found those parts added a layer and meaning to the book that resonated with me.  And yet, the book is still very strange, odd, and confusing even.  I wish I'd read it as a child.  My biggest complaint on this reread (er, relisten?) was that it was read by the author.  While this added another aspect of passion and meaning, I found her voice very annoying.  And I absolutely loathed Mrs. Which's voice, which had a strange echoing effect that bothered me to no end.  Definitely listen to one not narrated by the author.  She wrote interesting books, but she was not a good narrator.
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Tris & Izzie by Mette Ivie Harrison
Publisher: EgmontUSA
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 272
Source: e-book from NetGalley
For: Review

Izzie is content with her life, she has a sweet boyfriend and a great best friend.  But life gets turned upside down when an interesting new guy, Tristan, shows up and a mix up in magical potions leaves her feeling confused.  Even more distressing is the strange creatures that begin stalking Izzie.  Will she figure out her feelings for Mark and Tris or will she be destroyed by monsters before she gets the chance?

My thoughts:
To be honest, I've seen nothing but loathing surrounding this book. Perhaps it was best that I had low expectations.  I liked how Izzie fought the idea of being attracted to someone based only on some stupid potion.  She didn't want to have that choice taken from her, but she was also a huge jerk both to Mark and Tristan.  Izzie had some interesting things about her, but much of her was just annoying.  I was glad that she changed and grew in many ways over the course of the book, but I just didn't enjoy reading it.  None of the parts seemed to mix together well.  It felt disjointed like its parts didn't quite fit together.  And I was disappointed that it seemed to lack Harrison's unique style and writing.  I couldn't bring myself to care about the characters.  Tris and Mark were just not interesting.  The quick exchanging of affections that occurs is unreal (though possibly intentional).  The whole thing felt like it was unpolished (mind you, it was an ARC, but even for an ARC, it felt that way).  The bones of the original story were there and fairly interesting, but it just didn't play out well.
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Frost by Marianna Baer
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Publication date: September 2011
Pages: 400
Source: Library
For: Fun

When Leena finds out she has a new roommate foisted on her during senior year, she is anything but happy.  But when it turns out to be Celeste, she is livid.  Celeste is eccentric, loud, complaining.  And Leena was sure this year would be perfect, since she and her friends are staying in Frost House, an adorable little house set off by itself in the woods.  But when strange unnerving things begin to happen to Celeste, Leena may discover there is more going on at Frost House than she could have imagined.  Or did she imagine it?

My thoughts: This book was very, very creepy.  The atmosphere, the small details all building on one another, all these elements made the whole thing completely horrifying (as it was supposed to).  I also really liked the teenage-ness of the characters, especially, the slow building picture of what Leena really is like, what she does.  She isn't even sure who she is herself.  There is also a Gothic undertone to the whole story that made it even more spooky and thrilling.  I was sufficiently terrified into avoiding my closet for a time.  And I have to admit, it is definitely not my kind of book.  I don't like being freaked out, and I don't like disturbing stories.  It was just not the kind of book I usually enjoy and not one I recommend, unless this is your kind of story.  But, it's a great psychological thriller for those aching to be terrorized by the mind.

Any thoughts on these books?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Can You Survive: Jack London's Call of the Wild adapted by Ryan Jacobson + Giveaway

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Can You Survive: Jack London's Call of the Wild adapted by Ryan Jacobson
Publisher: Lake 7 Creative
Publication date: October 2011
ISBN: 9780977412235
Source: ARC provided by author

In this choose your path story, you become Buck, a dog about to set out on a perilous journey.  Throughout his travels and becoming a sled dog, the reader is given options to choose just what they would do and then see where they end up. 

Things I Liked:
This was a fast and fun read.  I'm going to admit that I think I've read maybe one other choose-your-story type of book and I honestly can't remember it.  Jumping right into the action of Buck's frontier adventure, kids will lose themselves in the excitement and danger of this cold, deadly place.  Interesting choices are laid before you and following each to see just where you will be was fun even for this boring old grown-up.  I definitely think this book will appeal especially to boys longing for adventures and it's a great introduction to London's classic tale.

Things I Didn't Like:
There were some places here and there that the writing was awkward and might be a bit hard for younger readers to follow.  Also, it was quite violent as the dog faces some very frightening foes.  It might be especially traumatic to animal-lovers and sensitive kids, since being written in second person can make it feel more personal.  I did notice, however, that the author noted the violence was toned down in the final edition.  A fun adventure story, all these things considered!

Read-alikes:
The Call of the Wild by Jack London
Choose your own adventure books by various authors

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: ->-> 
some incidents of animal fights and animal abuse

Overall rating: *** 

And, I've got a chance for you to win a copy of this book for the adventure-seeking tween in your life (or, you know, yourself).  Open to US only, fill out the form below by November 5th. 

For more stops on the tour, visit Ryan Jacobson's blog.

Were you a choose your own path/adventure/story reader?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Only the Good Spy Young by Ally Carter

Only the Good Spy Young by Ally Carter
Publisher: Hyperion Books
Publication date: June 2010
ISBN: 9781423128205
Source: Library

Cammie was not prepared to face the dangers of being a real-life spy in her junior year at school.  But, when a frightening incident in London reveals a trusted friend as a double agent, she must face the facts that she doesn't know who to trust anymore.  Being under constant surveillance takes its toll on her desire to hide, but she must find out just why she's being targeted, before its too late.

Things I Liked:
These books are always good for a little spy action mixed with teenage girl fun and a dash of humor.  I love reading them, essentially, because they are so fun and fluffy.  I have been really impressed, though, that Carter has managed to bring us around to serious issues in this book.  She developed a story line that came out in later books that I certainly didn't notice in the first seemingly-fluffy books.  They have a depth now that makes them even more interesting to me.  At the end of this one, I was begging for more action.  Here's a few of my favorite parts:

I wanted her to stop looking at me as a spy and start talking to me as a girl, but Gallagher Girls are only exceptional because we're both - all the time.  p 133

In the clandestine services, nothing ever happens quickly (except when it does).  Nothing is ever, ever easy (except when it is).  And, most of all, nothing ever goes perfectly according to plan (except in the movies). p 161

It is a little-known fact about covert operations that you will spend a lot of time with people you can't really trust.  They many be traitors and liars.  We call them assets or informants.  But mostly, in those days, I called him Zach. p 212

Things I Didn't Like:
If you manage to suspend your disbelief for the reading, it is really fun.  If you can't, it becomes ridiculously unbelievable.  Also, the spy/teenage girl jokes can wear a little thin.  I recommend reading only one of these books at a time.

Read-alikes:
Read the other books in the Gallagher Girls series first
Heist Society by Ally Carter is also similar in style, obviously

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none
just kissing

v-factor: ->
a few minor incidents, surprisingly, since they're in constant peril

Overall rating: ****

What do you read for fluffy fun?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The End of the World Club by J&P Voelkel

The Jaguar Stones, Book Two: The End of the World Club by J&P Voelkel
Publisher: Egmont USA
Publication date: December 2010
ISBN: 9781606840726
Source: ARC provided by publicist
(Check out the guest post and author interview with J&P Voelkel)

Max has had a reprieve from his favor from the gods of the Mayan underworld.  After saving his parents, he was able to escape from them, but only for a short time.  With that favor hanging over his head, he can't seem to enjoy the rest of his summer.  Of course, with the strange things going on at his home, it is even harder - a jungle seems to be growing right there in Boston and his mother denies anything happened in San Xavier.  But, when the gods finally request their favor, Max doesn't have much of a choice.  At least he gets to team up with Lola again.  But, will they manage to finish their quest in time to save their lives and the lives of his parents?

Things I Liked:
This was another addition to the action-packed and fast-paced adventures in ancient Mayan history.  I really like the way the history and even modern culture is woven into the story.  I actually learn things and I think kids will as well, without even minding it!  The characters are quirky and fun, but it's really about the adventures and difficult situations they have to get out of.  They almost have a Percy Jackson feel to them, but not as entertaining or steeped in mythology as those books.

His friends saw only the gifts that his parents lavished on him: the video games, the laptop, the electronic drums - all peace offerings for being too busy at work to support their son at school concerts and class nights and sports meets.  (After the recent events in San Xavier, he was expecting a "sorry for opening a portal to the Maya underworld and unleashing the forces of evil that almost killed you" gift any day now. p19 of ARC

She cupped her hands around her mouth to make the sound of a howler monkey, the loudest land animal on the planet.  And if Santino Garcia was surprised to hear the girl of his dreams roaring like an angry dinosaur, he was too polite to mention it.  p 99 of ARC 

Things I Didn't Like:
I had a really hard time wanting to finish the book.  I thought the story went on much too long and took too many crazy turns.  I got a little tired of waiting for the climax.  Also, the writing at times felt a bit awkward and the plot a little uneven (not to mention unbelievable).  I was also a little disappointed at how little was discussed about the 2012 "end of the world" Mayan calendar thing.  Especially considering the publicity that was surrounding it.  In fact, it was a little vague about whether or not the world will end.  Still, I think kids will love the action and the disturbingly gross Mayan gods, without being bothered by some of these other things.

Read-alikes:
Pick up the first book in the Jaguar Stones series by J&P Voelkel
The Red Pyramid or the Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan
The 39 Clues series by various authors

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 
(except in reference to the underworld :)

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: ->-> 
it can be a bit disgusting at times, but nothing very gory

Overall rating: *** 

What books to do read to learn while being entertained?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH
Publication date: May 2010
ISBN: 9781423113386
Source: Library

 

Carter Kane does not lead a normal life by any standard.  Traveling with his archeologist father around the world, living from a suitcase, he hasn't stayed in one place long enough to call home since his mother died.  His sister Sadie, however, lives with their grandparents in England, leading as normal a life as he could imagine.  But, when their father manages to release a deadly enemy and become captured in the process, Sadie and Carter must work together to prevent the enemy from destroying them...and the world.

Things I Liked:
I think this will be a new hit series for tweens and younger teens.  The alternating narrations of both Carter and Sadie provide perspective that should appeal to both boys and girls.  It has a good combination of humor, action, adventure, and information.  The story will keep you on your toes, reading to the end to know what happens, while you unintentionally learn about ancient Egyptian gods and customs.  It's something to give your Percy Jackson fans while they wait for The Lost Hero.  I personally enjoyed the hilarious chapter headings, in particular this one: "Men Ask for Directions (and Other Signs of the Apocalypse)."  Other good parts:

"Fairness does not mean everyone gets the same," Dad said.  "Fairness means everyone gets what they need." p67

Papyrus.  I remember Dad explaining how the Egyptians made it from a river plant because they never invented paper.  The stuff was so thick and rough, it made me wonder if the poor Egyptians had had to use toilet papyrus.  If so, no wonder they walked sideways. p 91

Things I Didn't Like:
Some of the plot seemed a little flimsy or maybe just confusing.  I wasn't entirely sure what the villain was attempting, nor what they did to stop him.  I don't think it was quite as clear as it could have been.  It probably won't be as popular as Percy Jackson, maybe because people are generally more familiar with Greek gods than with Egyptian.  And this is entirely personal, but I got so tired of Sadie saying "oh my G-d" or just "G-d" over and over and over.  I know it's quite a common phrase, but it just kept bugging me how often she would say it.

Read-alikes:
Percy Jackson books by Rick Riordan
The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
one or two (and the above-mentioned religious exclamations)

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
there is some fighting and some attempts to kill

Overall rating: ****

What do you think of the modernizing of ancient mythology?

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Middleworld by J & P Voelkel

The Jaguar Stones, Book One: Middleworld by J&P Voelkel
Publisher: EgmontUSA
Publication date: April 2010
ISBN: 9781606840719
Source: Review copy from publicist
(Guest post and author interview with J&P Voelkel)

All Max Murphy wants is a fabulous vacation to Italy, where he can devour pizza and relax.  But, when his archeologist parents cancel the trip in order to go on a dig in Central America, his dreams are shattered.  They aren't even planning on bringing him there, but he gets sent down there shortly after.  Once there, he becomes embroiled in a battle for power centered around the mysterious Jaguar Stones.  Now he's in a race to save his parents, and his own life.  Not a very relaxing summer vacation.

Things I Liked:
This was an exciting and action-packed adventure that also managed to teach me about Mayan culture.  I love a good archeological tale - I used to adore Indiana Jones movies (and this felt like a middle grade friendly version of them).  At one point I even thought it would be awesome to be an archeological astronomer and study ancient cultures' astronomical beliefs.  So this had a definite appeal to me.  However, I think it will be perfect for kids who love action, adventure, and humor all wrapped up into a neat package.  The story is interesting and scary, exciting, or humorous things seem to happen on every page.  Some favorite quotes:

Among the tangle of mosquito netting and old socks, his fingers closed on something unnaturally hard and dense. 
The granola bars.
It had come to this.
Miserably, he unwrapped a bar.  He brought the compacted brown mass to his lips.  With a heavy heart, he opened his mouth and prepared his tongue to receive the foul-tasting grunge.
Then, in the nick of time, he recovered his fighting spirit.
Things were bad, but not that bad.
He still wasn't desperate enough to eat a granola bar. p 112

Once there was the terrible sound of rock scraping on rubber as they wedged under a particularly low overhang.  Then they had to try not to scream and calmly maneuver themselves to the left or the right, to find a place where the raft could squeeze through.  (By unspoken agreement, Max did the trying not to scream, while Lola did the calm maneuvering.) p 136

"It's just that some crazy girl made me shoot the rapids in an underground river and then she got me trapped like a hair ball in an underground sink.  Oh yes, and some cape-twirling psycho is trying to kill me."
"Don't take it too personally," said Lola.  "He's trying to kill me, too." p 144

Things I Didn't Like:
I think as an adult, I struggled to find the story at all plausible.  Some of it was rather impossible in my head, but didn't really stop me from enjoying the ride.  Some of the humor didn't quite tickle me either, but I assume that's also the adult in me.

Read-alikes:
The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
The 39 Clues series by various authors

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
a very few

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
some scary parts and some fighting, not gory though

Overall rating: ****

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: We the Children by Andrew Clements

We the Children by Andrew Clements
Publisher: Atheneum
Publication date: April 2010
ISBN: 9781416938866
Source: ARC provided by publisher

Ben is just your average sixth grade boy, until the custodian surprises him by handing over a coin from the founder of the school and entrusting the protection of the school to him.  Little does Ben realize that his school is in danger and he and an unlikely friend are the only ones who can save it.  All of this amidst the regular difficulties of his life - a sailing race against an enemy and dealing with the separation of his parents.

Things I Liked:
It was a fast-paced and very quick read.  The mystery that's introduced is intriguing and definitely makes you want to know what will happen next - especially since not much is told about it.  Also the action race at the end was entertaining and fun.  Most of the illustrations were just rough sketches, but the finished ones were fantastic!  I can see they will add a lot to the story and keep it moving along.  A great pick for reluctant readers, particularly boys.

Things I Didn't Like:
It was obviously an introduction to the series, where not a lot of information is given about the mystery and a whole lot of stuff was set up.  I thought maybe a little more info in this short book would have helped, but it will definitely grab kids' attention and make them want the next book!

Read-alikes:
A bit like the 39 Clues series by multiple authors

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ****

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen. 

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Everlasting by Angie Frazier

Everlasting by Angie Frazier
Publisher: Scholastic
Publication date: June 1, 2010
ISBN: 9780545114738
Source: ARC from Traveling ARC Tours

Camille is not your typical 1850s girl.  She's grown up sailing the world with her father.  But, when she embarks with him on her last voyage before getting married, she doesn't expect that this trip will change everything in her life.  Her father is lost on the voyage, but she learns a secret about her mother, who she thought was dead, and a treasure that yields both great power and danger.  Will she be able to keep her father's business from debt, find this dangerous treasure, and be able to master her growing feelings for the handsome sailor Oscar, who is definitely not her fiance?

Things I Liked:
The adventurous parts were very fun - nothing like a sailing and treasure-hunting story to make a book thrilling.  When there were good sailing adventures or exciting parts, they were very good.  I was caught up in those particular parts.  The plot was quite twisty and kept me interested throughout, despite some of the slower parts (see below).  It definitely was what kept the book moving and held it together.  Camille was an interesting character, both wanting to please her father and live according to the expectations of the time, but also and wanting to be free of societal constraints. 

Things I Didn't Like:
I thought the fantastical elements surrounding the treasure were very underdeveloped.  The ending felt very rushed, not completely thought out and explained, and a bit too easy.  While Camille did have to make a difficult choice, I thought that it still kept her from dealing with death in a healthy way.  Also, while the overall plot was exciting, I did get bored at times.  There were some lulls in places that drew me back from the story.  But, a very good first novel and with some possibility for a sequel left in the ending.

Read-alikes:
A bit like The Dust of 100 Dogs by A.S. King

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
a very few

mrg-factor: X
innuendo for the most part

v-factor: ->
some fighting

Overall rating: ***

Do you have a favorite action-adventure story?

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Book Review: Heist Society by Ally Carter

Heist Society is what Kat Bishop was trying to escape when she got into Calgon School.  But, when her father is accused of stealing something that he actually didn't (for a change), she must leave that life behind and do everything she can to save him.  Even if it means stealing back from whoever stole in the first place.

Things I Liked:
I had such a good time reading this book!  I felt like I was watching a fun movie like Ocean's Eleven or National Treasure.  The action was excellent, the characters so much fun, and the basic premise - Kat comes from a long line of thieves and can't seem to escape from the life - just made for an all-around enjoyable read.  In the end, I was definitely entertained.  Some fun quotes:

"Most of all, there had been a time when honor meant something at Colgon School, when school property was respected, when the faculty was revered - when the headmaster's mint-condition 1958 Porsche Speedster would never have been placed on top of the fountain in the quad with water shooting out of its headlights on an unusually warm evening in November." p 2

"After hours of watching the New England countryside roll by, and listening to Hale snore, Kat was finished with plotting and strategizing how to get her boarding school life back.  She was out of options, so she called upon every thief's oldest and most trusted method for getting what she wants: Ask nicely." p 17

Things I Didn't Like:
I thought Nick's part in the book was very flimsy.  His role seemed superfluous or maybe just not developed enough. Especially the explanation for his helping out Kat.  Not very believable if you ask me. It also seemed a bit light in terms of anything but the fun plot.  Still, I look forward to more from Carter in this series.

Read-alikes:
Carter's Gallagher Girls series felt very similar
Also, a little like the 39 Clues books by various authors as well

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe one or two

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
some action, not really violence

Overall rating: ****
 

What's your favorite not-yet-made-into-a-movie-but-totally-should-be book?

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Book Review: Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover by Ally Carter

Don't Judge a Girl by her Cover is the perfect saying for a Gallagher Girl.  Cammie and her friends go to the world's most secret school for teenage spies.  When her friend Macey's father runs for Vice President, she becomes the center of attention for the whole country - especially after a dangerous incident both she and Cammie barely escape from.  The rest of the year is difficult to deal with, what with Macey's safety uncertain and the memory of that traumatic experience.  Can Cammie and her friends keep Macey safe?

Things I Liked:
So much fun.  I love the spy aspect.  It is a delight to read a book that manages to have teen issues and mix it with spy details and espionage.  I love the sly and sometimes sarcastic humor that Carter manages to include on nearly every page.  Also, the story was really great - I didn't see most of the twists coming.  Plus I enjoyed how the characters I've come to love change throughout this book because of their experiences.  Here's a favorite part:

"Whatever the case, that didn't change the fact that a very cute, very mysterious spy boy was either out to save us, or kidnap us, or date us.  And I wasn't sure which one we were best equipped to handle." p174

Things I Didn't Like:
I actually got a little confused at the ending.  Stuff seemed to happen really fast and also to not be explained very well.  I think some of the details should have been smoother, even if we have to wait for another book to figure out where it is going and what exactly everything means.  It felt a little rushed maybe.

Read-alikes:
Definitely pick up the first two Gallagher Girls books, I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You and Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
mild action sequences

Overall rating: ****

What do you like to read for a break from more serious books?

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Book Review: Erak's Ransom by John Flanagan

Erak's Ransom returns us to the time just before Will became a fully-fledged ranger (between book 4 and book 5).  Will and Halt are each dealing with the fears and sadness that come with this impending change in their lives.  But, they don't have long to stew, because Erak, their Skandian friend, is captured by the Arridi, desert-dwelling warriors, who are holding him for ransom.  Setting off to provide that ransom, Will and several of his old friends meet with many unexpected adventures and face death before they can bring Erak home again.

Things I Liked:
Flanagan has created another fantastic adventure, complete with humor, some romance, and plenty of action.  I continue to enjoy the humor that is sometimes so dry and sometimes so obvious that kids and adults both will find something to laugh about.  I find it hard to put down the books until I know just what happens next, so it definitely kept me on the edge of my seat.  A great series for reluctant readers and fantasy fans.

Things I Didn't Like:
A few times I found myself thinking how impossibly ridiculous the situations the characters manage to get into.  How many times can Will defy death?  Also, I wondered how characters from different countries and cultures would all be speaking the same language.  It was a very convenient thing for the story, but mars its authenticity just a bit.  And honestly, going back to an earlier part of the story really threw me off.  He should have just waited until he'd finished the whole series.

Read-alikes:
Fans of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings might enjoy the series
Read the rest of the Ranger's Apprentice series

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe a few

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
plenty of action, not overly descriptive

Overall rating: ****

What books do you enjoy that are obviously not written for your demographic?

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Book Review: Candle Man, Book 1: The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance by Glenn Dakin

*ARC provided by publisher*

Candle Man, Book One: The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance is the tale of Theo, who has definitely not had a typical childhood.  Theo has led a very sheltered life, with excursions outside the house limited to visits to the graveyard and other places where he will never come in contact with other people.  His whole world consists of only three acquaintances, because of his mysterious "illness."  Theo's life changes drastically when he finds himself escaping his "home" and running with strangers from the only place he's ever known.  As more secrets are revealed, about himself, his former care takers, and his new friends, Theo is caught up into a dangerous and ancient rivalry that forces him to choose sides and fight for his life.

Things I Liked:

Thus begins a fun new series full of interesting adventures, clever dialog, quirky characters, and strange creatures.  I found the sarcasm at times humorous, but also annoying.  I think kids will really enjoy this series that combines superhero adventures, fantastical creatures, and an intriguing mystery all into one great story.

"A world where only the chosen few will suffer the worries of power and the burden of riches.  A world where the ordinary man will enjoy the virtues of poverty, and the bliss of slavery.  And, under our guidance, this nation will command a vast, docile Empire, as it once did!" p 50 (ARC)

Things I Didn't Like:

At times it felt rather violent for younger ages.  It also was a little odd and hard to follow what exactly was happening.  I have high hopes for the sequel, though.

Read-alikes:

The Girl Who Could Fly by Victoria Forester

A little like Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:

s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->

quite a bit, some of it a little gory

Overall rating: ****

Do you prefer your (literary) villains to be obvious or subtle?

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Book Review: 39 Clues: The Black Circle by Patrick Carman

39 Clues: The Black Circlefinds Amy and Dan seeking clues in Russia.  They manage to team up with some unlikely allies for a time, but when they find themselves in the heart of dangerous territory, they get help from a most unexpected source.

Things I Liked:
The story still has lots of action and adventure, with plenty of twists and turns throughout to keep you guessing.  It will definitely have the kids entertained and engrossed.  I like that we keep getting further information about the lives of other characters in the game.

Things I Didn't Like:

I think I'm getting tired of the series. Each books seems like the same thing every time, with slightly different plot points and a new clue.While I will probably continue to read the series, I think I won't post a review for each one individually, since the plots are so similar and my reactions about the same.

Read-alikes:

Read the first four books in the 39 Clues series first

It is a bit like the Percy Jackson series, but for younger readers

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:

s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ***

If you buy through my Amazon linkage,
I will get a very small percentage