To start off this week's summer reading, Silva L. Wood wrote a superb critique of the thought-provoking novel: More Than This by Patrick Ness. In this book, teenager Seth Wearing wakes up in a dystopian world – which he believes to be hell - after drowning in a freezing ocean.
'I have a healthy respect for Patrick Ness and applaud his incredible book; I can definitely say I have spent my time well, and the ending, though I deeply wished it wasn't so close as I was reading the last four or so chapters, was spectacular and satisfying. So to quote Patrick Ness himself: "Haven't you ever felt like there has to be more?" Yes. There has to be more of this book.'
Meanwhile continuing themes of mortality, reader ABitCrazy wrote a super review of Sister by Rosamund Lupton! Told as a letter, this novel follows Beatrice's quest to find out who is responsible for the death of her sister Tess.
'At the very end it's all about who actually did murder Tess and that gets you hooked! You're desperate by this time after all the clues, all the things that have made you suspect this person and made you suspect that person, you are finally ready to know who did it! ... I really love Sister! I think if you're a big fan of mystery and crime fiction books you should definitely 100% read this book! Even if you're not a fan of those things you should read this book!'
Likewise, another whodunit mystery - Murder on Stage by Cora Harrison – was discussed this week in a terrific review by one of our young critics Sagey! This book is about a boy called Alfie who, whilst at the theatre, witnesses a man being murdered on stage! Reviewer Sagey however, felt the story lacked suspense.
'I found this book exciting and heart-pumping but at other points the story became quite boring and un-interesting... Overall, it was an exciting cliff-hanger and I did enjoy it at times but I didn't enjoy it as much as other books I have read in the past. I would recommend this book to people who are interested in murder mystery.'
With similar detective elements, Secret Ninja Spies: Toyko Surprise by Alex Ko was brilliantly reviewed this week by site member Prince Caspian! In a wonderful summary of the plot, Prince Caspian commented
'This book is about some twins called Josh and Jessica who stay with their Granny in Tokyo for the summer, and discover that she is actually a secret Ninja who fights baddies'.
'I really enjoyed reading this book, because it's quite exciting, especially the bits in the museum. It is quite long and complicated though (the longest book I've ever read) and doesn't have that many pictures. Parts of it are quite difficult because of the Japanese words but by the end I was getting used to them. I think it's suitable for readers of 7 and up, especially boys and tomboys.'
Then, moving on to a detective fantasy theme, Raven Gate from Anthony Horowitz Power of Five series was fantastically reviewed this week by reader Purple Koala! In this novel teenage criminal Matthew Freeman is sent to foster care in a remote village in Yorkshire. Matt, however - 'soon realises that something is wrong with his Foster parent, and the whole village'.
'With a secret organization, an unhelpful journalist and a discovery of hidden power, this is a must read. For fans of Alex Rider, this is the book for you. Matt is the new hero, but instead of battling international super villains, it's devils, demons and witches!'
Finally, reflecting themes of childhood friendship, site member Pheebz wrote a delightful review of Frenemies by Alexa Young. Halley and Avalon are best friends, however when the girls go back to school and develop new friendships, feelings of jealousy begin to cause trouble!
'I really enjoyed this book because it's all about relationships and how misunderstandings or jealousy of new friends can ruin a wonderful friendship. I think that really "girly" girls will love this book, but I recommend it to everyone!'
And that is it for this week! We really enjoyed reading all your excellent reviews! Like always, if your review has been mentioned, email in to the children's site - childrens.books@guardian.co.uk - and we will send you an extra-special treat from our cupboards.
Happy summer reading!
Want to tell the world about a book you've read? Join the site and send us your review!
0 comments:
Post a Comment