Now that you have completed the first part of your book report, your next job is to read the book reviews written by the rest of the class. Each person tried to convince you that his or her book was a terrific read. Now it’s your turn to decide which writers were the most convincing.
Choose two reviews that you feel are written in a way that make you want to read the book. Post a comment that explains which book reviews grabbed you and why. Include at least one question about each book that you would like your classmate to answer. Your comment with its two choices and questions will be worth 20 points of your book review.
The deadline for this post is Sunday, December 7 by 10 pm. Happy reading!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
31 comments:
I thoroughly enjoyed Danielle's review of "The Rose Bride." The review of the book by Nancy Holder just compelled me. Every girl, at one point in their life, dreams of one day waking up as a princess. I mean, I still do. Some just want to feel like a princess for just a day. Some just want to feel loved. But we all know life cannot be perfect, and like all great stories, obstacles are always thrown in to see if we can over come them. The book sounds like a real life fairy tale. Danielle, does the Prince and another character end up fighting physically over Rose like in Romeo and Juliet?
I've read books by Sarah Dessen before, and I never can seem to put them down. I haven't heard of this one before, but Zizi's description of the book makes me want to run out and buy it this instant! Reading the review, makes me feel as if I could be Annabel. As a teenager I don't tell everything to my friends, and once in a while I find a guy who I can be completely comfortable with and I could tell him everything. As I get older, I'm figuring out what is right, and what is wrong, as Annabel does in the book. Sooner or later we have to grow up and be ourselves. Zizi, does Annabel fall head over heels in love with Owen? Or is she hiding a huge secret?
Emily’s book review on Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café by Fannie Flag caught my attention. The reason I enjoyed this review was because the two main characters relationship in the novel, Evelyn and Ninny, reminded me of my mom and grandma’s relationship; loving, trustworthy, and occasionally a bit fanatical. I have always loved stories that end with people altering due to a specific person that left a lasting impact. Sometimes even when we think our world is falling apart, it is secretly reforming itself into something better. In addition, I find it fascinating how several authors can dynamically shape their books using creative writing patterns, which Emily made clear Flag does with this story. It is said that Ninny teaches Evelyn many life lessons and eventually leads Evelyn into loving herself and her life. Emily, does Evelyn teach Ninny anything in return? If so, what does Evelyn teach her and how does it affect Ninny’s life?
Runner by Carl Deuker seems to be the perfect unconventional book to read. I found that this genre wouldn’t typically catch my interest, but Nick’s book review definitely did. I think the idea of putting normal characters under unlikely experiences creates a great story. As I kept reading the review, I found another thing that was strange but interesting - Chance’s “home,” a sailboat. People who can wake up everyday without a bed, with little complaints, are strong people, which is something I respect. The conflict is also something that intrigued me. The illegal bomb smuggling for money for the mortgage is out of the ordinary, but it also shows what Chance will do for his father. I know that I would do anything to help my family in times of need, like Chance. Nick, after Chance starts his illegal job, who finds out first - the authorities, his drunken father, or someone else? Or, is the conflict centered on an internal conflict inflicted upon Chance himself?
Angie's book review of "Ingo" really compelled me to read her book, and i don't even really like to read that much. I absolutely love anything that has to do with the ocean, and Ingo seems like a beautiful underwater city that anyone would want to go explore. Although my dad isn't dead, I can somewhat relate to Sapphire's love and interest of the deep blue ocean. At the end, the character is faced with a choice of staying on land or going to the sea, what choice does Sapphire make in the end, Angie?
Normally, I'm not too keen on mob stories, but Rich's book review of "Brotherly Love" changed my mind about that. He was definitely right about teenagers loving suspense and violence, I'm guilty of it. Though he does say the story gets a little confusing at times, I would still take a shot at reading it. The way Rich described it, "Brotherly Love" seems like a very interesting story to read. Why, though, is the sister targeted in the beginning by getting hit by a car and attacked by a dog, Rich?
Just like Lauren, Angie's review of "Ingo" by Helen Dunmore makes me want to go out to the library and check it out. The way Angie described it just sounds like the perfect fantasy story with real life emotions in it. Obviously we will not have to choose between a life in the sea or on land but we all know the feeling of being torn between two things, most likely what are parents want and then what our friends want or something (or somebody)else tells us we want. Angie, my question for you is if the world (or city) of Ingo based on the city of Atlantis at all?
Another novel that I want to read is "The Opposite of Music" by Janet Ruth Young. The novel was brillantly described by Nicole. I have someone very close to me who battles with depression and that's what depression feels like to any one who has dealt with it or knows someone who has, it's a war. As you can assume this book hits close to home but it also sounds like it delivers a very positive message that no matter how bad things get your family is right behind you, whether you win or lose. I think it sounds like a good inspirational story about how music was an expression of this young man's struggle in dealing with his dad's depression because I know things like listening and playing music or dancing helps me be able to be strong for them. My question for you, Nicole, is does this story go indepth of the daily struggles and tolls loving and caring about someone that has depression takes on someone as young as ourselves?
I'm positive that both of these novels will be checked out on my next trip to the library and a thank you to Angie and Nicole for reading and reviewing these novels. I probably never would have thought of picking them up if I saw them on the shelf!
As I read through the many book reviews from our class, I noticed that those of Arielle and Scott stuck out like sore thumbs (or should I say “rave reviews?”). Both chose authors that they already knew they loved, assuring me that they did not feign their praises of the books. Another important factor was that both write well and had few mistakes, instrumental in showing me that they were/are intelligent, and making me believe what they felt about their books.
Arielle used wonderful adjectives to illustrate her enjoyment of the book. Her intro had a good hook, and she assessed the effect of setting in Peeps quite well. The dramatic description of the conflict, “. . . must battle other blood thirsty peeps and the infected rats crawling the streets,” had me biting my nails at once. Arielle’s description of Westerfeld’s plot development tactics also intensified the appeal for me. I enjoyed the way she discussed his adding truth to the story with factual parasitic blurbs in every other chapter, and the “Afterward” seems intriguing as well. The sentence that made me the most eager to sprint to the nearest library and check out the book was, “Returning to his signature style, Scott Westerfeld creates vivid and interesting pictures through his imagination, but also leaves room for your own to prosper.” I always enjoy a book that is full of creativity but at the same time allows me to use my own. Arielle, you mentioned that your novel adds a “futuristic twist to the American government” and you also said that Westerfeld used “what little we know about the government…” Does what is known of the government parallel the American government or what it could become (like Harrison Bergeron)? Or is the relationship directly stated? Also, are there any peeps on Cal’s side or is he alone (similar to Harrison Bergeron)?
Scott uses an excellent vocabulary to describe the plot of The Summons, his anticipation while reading, and the twists and tangles of the story. His opening is strong, and he reels us in with his excitement about one of his favorite authors. He introduces the plot early in his review, and, as the story is a mystery, he tactfully words his descriptions of the rising actions to create an intense air of suspense. An example of this is the sentence, “The discovery thrusts Ray and his drug-ridden brother into a myriad of mysteries, threats, and crime to learn where the money came from and what is to be done with it.” Foils interest me, so Scott’s paragraph devoted to the foil between the brothers drew me in. I like that their contrasts are important to the book, and I was also happy to hear that every character is a potential suspect in the investigation. His discussion of the settings also helped me get a good feel for the book. I liked that the plot of the book seemed to be built upon contrasts (foils and differences in settings). The final paragraph of Scott’s review was successful in lauding the book one last time while cracking a small joke. Scott, how does Grisham keep every character looking like the potential antagonist? I used to hate mysteries because I always figured out the antagonist early-on. Are you left in suspense until the very end? Do you think his theme of contrasts and details is helpful in keeping you from figuring it out?
Both Arielle and Scott are great persuasive writers. Their use of adjectives and other literary devices won me over completely! Congratulations! I have to go get my library card out…
For this part of the book report, I decided to pick two of the most important things in my 'book' life: what I like reading about which is in fact suspense, and family ties. It was hard for me to choose two, since everyone did an amazing job in trying to sell their books. Anna's review of "The Secret Life of Bees" shows about my ties with my family. The second review was hard for me to choose, but I chose the "Acceleration" review written by Diane because I love suspense more than anything.
I loved Anna's review of "The Secret Life of Bees", mainly because I love suspense. Both my grandfathers are deceased, but I still haven't been told of their life here on Earth. Some, like the main character in this story, I have been trying to figure out from of what my parents still tell me. I was younger when this happened, and all I want is to feel a connection to them although they are dead. Like Anna, I probably would cry, although laughter is something we all feel when we are grieving. To this day, I still cry when my family visits at the cemetery even though I still don't know what they were like. Like the Black Madonna picture in this story, I put my puzzle pieces together to figure out what kind of people my grandfathers were. I assume, although I don't want to, that only having the Black Madonna picture was hard to interpret her mother's life, and this is where I can relate. So Anna, does only having the Black Madonna picture and no help from her father bring any hardship on Lily when she takes control on finding information on her mother's life? If so, how does Lily bring about to overcome it?
Diane's review of "Acceleration" makes me relate myself to the main character who is trying to deal with a serial killer. As my teenage self, I tend to poke my nose into other people's business, which it's not a good thing to do but I seem that I can't help myself. Like the main character Duncan, I probably would of done exactly what he had done. He tried to prove to himself that he wasn't the bad guy after all, and sometimes my life makes me think that I am and I try to prove myself the complete opposite. Life is all about taking risks and not looking back at them, and that's what the main character did, and that's what I do now. Diane, I know you say that the police couldn't take the clues seriously, but in what way did Duncan present the clues to them in which they didn't take him seriously? What does he say to the police about the clues? But, believe me, I'm making my dad bring me to the library sometime this week just so I can check out "Acceleration".
Let's face it. In the modern world, people are attracted to storys of "sex, drugs, and violence". It promises a thrilling book that will be filled with excitement and curious characters. This is how Rich's review of "Brotherly Love" drew me in. I'm a fan of the genre, having seen the Oscar winning "The Departed" ten times over, and although I have never heard of Pete Dexter or any of his works before, Rich's description of both the genre and the plot were enough to hook me. Particularly, I have to confess that his reference to the "Gotham City Effect" caught my attention, being such a huge and devoted Batman fan. I understood his reference entirely and that made the review all the more effective. So Rich, my question to you is.....Batman escapes each of the people following him and lives to fight evil again, but does your story's "Batman" escape?
What struck me about Arielle's review of Scott Westerfield's "Peeps" was the promise of " a harsh twist on reality. Who doesn't want to escape the mundane and predictable to find a world where everything isn't the way we know it. Once I was intrigued, everything about this review captured me. The idea of a parasitic peep in constant battle with other parasitic peeps, the idea of a government where this is the norm, the mere thought of setting a tale like this in New York City. Arielle, congratulations on sending me to the book store to find this thriller, but now I must ask does the parasite inside Cal win in the end and take control of him?
-Scott C.
Reading through all of the book reviews I enjoyed Nick's and Jesse's the most. Just like Nick, I also like to read fast past action-packed books. Just reading the review and see all of the conflicts in the book makes me want go out and read it. This review grabbed me because it seems there is a lot of action in it, and it is not an incredibly long book. How does Chance get introduced to bomb smuggling? Which option did he choose, to get rich or bomb smuggling?
The James Bond's movies are awesome, but Jesse makes the book sound even more amazing. Action books are one of my favorite kinds of books. So, I'm sure that I would enjoy this book. If this book really contains drama, suspense, and romance it will be on my wish list for Santa to get me because this is the kind of book I have been waiting for. Who does 007 swear revenge against? Why?
Skimming through the reviews the first one that peeked my interest was Katie’s on the book “Skinny”. It sounds like a terrific read because as a teenage girl I, and mostly everyone, know that appearance is critical. Being skinny, wearing the best clothes, it can drive someone literally insane. Especially if family life is hard as well, which I would know all too well after the past year. I would like to ask Katie though, is there any specific reason for Giselle’s Father’s hatred?
Another book review that looked quite intriguing would be for Carina’s book “I was a Non-Blonde Cheerleader.” This review caught my attention because of the way the main character has to fit in with her new school. Coming to a new school is hard enough but going to a school with girls who only have blonde hair…I would walk in to the school and probably start screaming and saying what is the world coming too. Anyways, Carina I have a question for you as well which would be, Does Annisa give in to the peer pressures of her blonde cheerleading counterparts, or does she remain true to herself?
As i was reading Katies description of Skinny, i though how true it sounds. It really reminds me of the everyday events in a teenagers life. It sounds so realistic, especially the part where she talks about not feeling good enough. It so true. And as a teenager, part of the territory is feeling awkward and wierd and self conscious about everything. I definately would definately enjoy reading that book. Katie, is the book about a main character or is there no main character?
The other book that i am just dying to read after i read the book review by Kelsi was The Secret Lfe of CeeCee Wilkes. It sounds so interesting especially the way Kel described the book. It sounds very mysterious and there's nothing i love more than a mysterious mystery! It sounds like CeeCee may have to deal with some serious issues later on, is she introuble with the law?
that last one was Brittany A mrs morrison
I am definitely not one known to read for fun and don’t really enjoy reading all that much, but when I hear about a book that really peaks my interest I usually can’t put it down. Both Melani and Brittany’s books completely sparked my interest and I hope to learn more about them as I ask my questions.
Melani’s book “Life as We Knew It” sounds very compelling not only for its intense conflict with nature, but for its format. Melani states that it is written in the form of a diary. I think any books written in any way that the narrator or main character can express their story are great to read because it allows you to get inside their head and understand key points as they do. The conflicts between staying alive and fending for yourself versus sticking with your family seem interesting because it is a conflict that not many people are faced with daily, and is also one to really think about. Decisions to be made like that are very harsh and must be extremely difficult to write about and describe in great detail. So Melani I have to wonder, if so, how does Miranda’s family survive this harsh “every man for himself” battle? If not, how does Miranda feel about seeing her family being torn apart?
Brittany’s book “Tuesdays with Morrie” sounds like a very loving and heartfelt story to read. The relationship between Mitch and Morrie seems like that of true friends. I am constantly asking myself questions like “What is really important in my life?” and “Am I really enjoying my time in the ways that I am using it?” This book, to me, sounds like one that I can read to help me get a better understanding of what is important and life and maybe can answer some of the questions I have about my own life. Morrie seems to be a very important person to Mitch who helps him along his way through life. In Brittany’s book review, she mentions something of a “final project”, but not much is elaborated on it. Brittany, what exactly is this “final project” and why does Morrie refer to it this way?
Unfortunatly, in the harsh world that we live in, rape and murder is reality. As much as we shut out this cruel idea, we need to open our eyes to the vast majority of rape/murder cases that exist throughout our country. Holly M.'s review displayed The Lovely Bones as being interesting and compelling. She claims to have felt many diverse feelings and quite a few emotions while reading the story, and that is what grabbed my attention. Personally, i would like to know why heaven isn't the "perfect world", when that is what it is typically made out to be?
Ashley H.'s review of A Message in a Bottle evoked the story as enticing and heartfelt. Being a sucker for romantic novels, I found her description grabbing my attention almost immediately. I have also read two other novels by Nicholas Sparks, and know what an excellent author he is. That being said, I have just two simple questions to ask of Ashley: Was Theresa previously in love with someone? or just Garrett? Also, do things last between them?
-Melani H.
Normally, I don't really like to read, but going through these book reviews, a couple of them caught my eye. The first one that seemed to catch my attention was Carina's. The book she read was called "I Was A Non-Blonde Cheerleader," by Kieran Scott. Some teenage novels I read are really boring, but this one seems to be like it would be the total opposite. Being a unique individual in my school myself, I'm interested in knowing how Annisa handles being different. Maybe I'll learn something and enjoy the book too. Tell me Carina, does Annisa change herself to fit in in school. Does she crack under the pressure of being different? How does she handle being the only brunette in school?
Another review that caught my eye was Cassie's. "Burned" seems like a book that all teenagers can relate to, one way or another. Religion is a big part of your life, and can either make you or break you. It can be hard to find the balance between culture and reality. You have to pick what you think is right and never doubt yourself. Cassie, does religion help or destroy Pattyn's life in this novel? How does she balance her life to please her heart and be herself?
I've always seen people lugging around the heavy book of Eragon, but I was never interested in it until I read Sam's review. I absolutely adore books that stretch the imagination and make you draw beautiful fictional images in your mind. By Sam's review, this book seems to fit that mold. I was curious though Sam.. how does he find the dragon you were talking about?
Well Brittany, 'The Five People You Meet in Heaven' led me to believe that Mitch Albom was a talented writer, but after reading your review of 'Tuesdays with Morrie' (also by Mitch) I truly knew it. Brittany, is this book about the author's actual experiences? Or did he just make himself a character?
The first review that stole my attention was Jesse's review on "License to Kill" by John Gardner. His strong vocabulary caught me and sucked me into reading his passage. Jesse makes me feel like I need to read this novel or my life will be incomplete. I am already a fan of James Bond so that makes me want to read the story that much more. With the movies already backing up the sweetness of 007, Jesse makes this book seem like the next world wonder inspiring me to read it. I would like to ask Jesse the question of, what is the incident that occurs that makes James Bond swear revenge?
The next review that caught my attention was Kelsi's review of "The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes" by Diane Chamberlain. The mystery in this story is very transparent through Kelsi's description. As a fan of mysteries I would like to learn more of CeeCee's secret life. I am also now very curious to know CeeCee's big secret. It makes me interested to read and find out what is going on. I would like to ask you what are some of these examples of foreshadowing the author used in this story?
I very much enjoyed reading about Danielle's book, "The Rose Bride". As soon as I was done reading this review, I was ready to go check it out at the library. Without a doubt, every girl at one point in life, wants to one day, just wake up as a princess. I am one who loves to read fairytale stories, and sometimes wish that I could have my own fairytale someday. But I mean, who doesn't? This story seems like it's filled with many obstacles, but yet has true love and hopefully a happy ending. My one question for you, Danielle, is...
Were the words that Rose's mother spoke in her last moments, that "Love will always prevail and make things better." true, or false?
Another review I was tightly drawn to was Katie's description of "Skinny". Every teenager deals with their own personal difficulties, and appearance seems to be one of the bigger problems. It can truly drive someone insane. Whether it's you being judged, or you judging someone else on the outside (even though it's wrong). Another problem in a teen's life is dealing with your relationship with family. By reading this review, I think that a lot of teenagers, including myself, can relate to the main characters, Holly and Giselle on both of these situations. (The general situations of family relationship and self consciousness--not specifying towards anorexia, but appearance in general). And now my question for you, Katie is...
Does Holly feel like Giselle's illness is holding her back/slowing her down, with trying to grow up on her own?
Carina D.
The review by Emily of Fried Green Tomatoes really grabbed my attention. This story (and movie) is one of my mom's favorites, I can now see why. It tells the story of relationships and friendships that go beyond words. We all need to know that we are loved by others whether they be older or younger than ourselves. We can all be taught life's lessons from each other just as Evelyn and Ninny taught each other. The one question I have is, how did Evelyn and Ninny become friends since there is such an age difference beween the two.
I enjoyed the review of Ingo by Angie. This seems like an enjoyable book to read, one of whimsy and mystery. It is about lifes choices and how we all must make decisions that will alter our lives forever. The call of the sea is compelling for Sapphire, but the safety of the land also beckons her. It is the story of the unknown versus the known. My question for Angie is how does Sapphire's choice ultimately affect her life.
I thought that Lauren D’s description of “A Second Time Around” was very enticing. I also always enjoy a good suspense novel. When I find myself read for pleasure or choice (which is rare) it always seems to be suspenseful novel. I think that because I enjoy mystery shows on television I find myself reading novels of equivalency. Although I got a little confused in your description of the characters I think when I actually read this I would understand it. Also, Lauren if you enjoy suspense I would recommend that you check out some books by Lois Duncan. I have really enjoyed the novels of hers that I have read. When you say that it’s not concluded does that mean that it does not have an ending? Or is it just in the end?
I also found Holly’s post interesting, although my mother has already read it and explain the conflicts and plot to me, it’s just not the same as you read it for yourself. As I said before I always enjoy novels with suspense and that keep you on your toes. In your post you mention that her inspiration for the novel comes from her own rape in college, I would like that because of that she would have such a strong way of conveying her message to the reader. Also Holly, what was the main theme that you took away or thought was conveyed through this novel?
After reading numerous book reviews, I am more than itching to make a trip to the book store. Two books that caught my interest the most, though it is unfair to say only two sparked any interest, would be Katie's "Skinny" review and also Scott's Review of "The Summons".
I can't decide what caught my interest the most about Katie's review. Was it the fact that as a teenage girl I feel I can relate to some of the "wars" she makes reference to in introducing the novel she read? Or was it because the book, through her description, makes you "feel as if you are one of the characters." Katie describes this book as "genius" and also says that "Obstacles are put in our lives too show everyone we can overcome our worst fears", which is a point she says the author expresses. I couldn't agree more with this statement, and it alone is enough to make me want to pick up this book. But Katie, I can't help but wonder: Does Giselle's battle with anorexia change Holly's overall view of her sister? In other words, does the fact that Holly knows her sister is battling a disease that is slowly tearing apart her body make her look at or feel differently about her sister?
Mysteries are always a great read. They leave you on the edge of your seat, and are usually, in my experience, a book that you are unable to put down. After reading Scott's review of "The Summons", I am craving a good mystery. Scott mentions that he has read several works by John Grisham before picking up this one, and it gives me a feeling that Grimsam is a top knotch writer of mystery and can keep you thinking, which is what a mystery is all about. His short incite to the plot presents just enough information for novel to catch my interest, but not enough to give away the outcome. He says that "Each new character introduced is another potential suspect" and I'm dieing to know what role each of these characters played in the father's life and how they could be the potential murderer. But Scott, could you answer me one question? You describe the book as a "legal-thriller" and I was wondering: is this book just like another corny episode of "Law and Order", or will the outcome of the book really surprise me?
-Arielle
After reading book review, after book review, after book review I found 2 books that I was absolutely sold on. The first review that really pulled me in was Nick’s review of Runner. Scott’s review of The Summons also caught my attention almost immediately. They both did a terrific job with their book review and painted a great picture of their books.
Nick uses a great hook that grabbed my attention almost instantly and made me read his book review. He uses captive adjectives to describe the book and makes it sound really exciting. The description of Carl Dueker’s writing style made the novel sound like a master piece full of actions and suspense on every page. That is exactly what I look for in a novel something so suspenseful that you cannot bare to put it down. The setting of the story paints a very good picture of the plot and Nick shows really good insight, for example; “ When kids hear I live on a boat, they picture a floating mansion outlined with strings of white Christmas lights like the one in the old movie Sleepless in Seattle.” I think that the whole plot of the story just sets up a really griping story and I can’t wait to get to the library to read it. When I read the review I could not help but wonder how the illegal bombs were smuggled into the Seattle, and how does the Fat-man get caught?
Scott paints an incredibly vivid picture of his story The Summons. He uses excellent adjectives to create a very descriptive review. In the small summary of the book he gives a very good plot outline and talks about the foils between the two brothers. Another thing that really sold me was how much Scott raved about John Grisham. The legal thrillers that Grisham writes seem extremely exciting and gripping, and just loaded with suspense. I am extremely excited to pick up one of Grisham’s novels. I was really curious why the death of Judge Rueben Atlee of Clanton was so untimely and how is the setting so critical in the plot of the story?
- Dylan F.
There were quite a few book reviews that caught my eye but since I could only pick two, I narrowed it down and chose Skinny and The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes. The way Katie's review was written really caught my attention and made me think about the world we live in today. If you're not exactly what someone else wants you to be, than people see you as an outcast, or a loser. People, mostly girls, feel that they're ugly if there not - say a size one or two jeans - that they're fat and overweight and feel they need to go on a "diet." What I'm curious about this novel is that was she fighting the battle of Anorexia before her father's death, or was her grief from her father's death the reason she is going through such a rough patch?
Also, Kelsi, when I read your review on The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes, I thought about how much people just try to be the same, that no one seems to really try to be different. People always strive for attention and publicity, and you hardly ever hear of a person who doesn't want anyone to know who they are. So one main question really came to mind, and that was, what do you mean by everyone knowing CeeCee? Like does she have some type of past that she wants to run away from and doesn't want anyone to know about, or is there another reason as to why she does not want anyone knowing who she is, thus making her "disappear" and change her name?
I must say that reading all of my classmates book reviews, I know that I will be doing a lot of reading during my Christmas break!
-Holly M.
Reading Lauren's post on "The Silence of the Lambs," though very lengthy, caught my attention. I saw "The Silence of the Lambs" some time ago on television, ever since; I've been dying to read the book. The way Lauren describes the psychology Hannibal Lecter uses to try to escape from the asylum he is kept at, pulled me in to read the entire review, and probably the book also, but Lauren, one question. Does Hannibal find a way to escape in the very end?
Ashley's review also caught my attention. For the first reason being that it said "Message in a Bottle," a very popular song by "The Police." Also for the reason that it was rather short, which, with the little amount of time I have to write this part of the report is very convenient. I was interested reading this report because Ashley said, "The story kept my attention from the first page to the last," which is the only way I'd be able to get in a book. Just one question, your book seemed somewhat "girly," would a man be able to enjoy this book?
Rich S.
The one review that caught my eye
was "I Was A Non-Blonde Cheerleader" that Carina wrote. I like this review because I like reading books that can be relate able and are based on related on real life situations. Was the high school like our high school and like the ones you see in the movies?
The other review was "A Message in a Bottle" that Ashley wrote. I liked this review because the book seemed interesting and I never read a book like that. What was the message in the bottle and why was it written?
Maureen B
The Book review that I found most convincing was Matt's review of "From a Buick 8" by Stephen King. I personally have never read a Stephen King book but I have heard that almost every book he writes is really good. However I am a big fan of horror and suspense books because they always seem to keep my attention. That is why I would probably enjoy this story. I also like how Stephen King describes his character i great detail. So Matt, you say that Ned is shown to be somewhat of a vulnerable person due to many tragedies and difficult times in his life. What are some of these hardships that he has faced?
I also thought that Jesse's review of "License to Kill" was very convincing, and it really made me want to read the book. I am a very big fan of John Gardner's "James Bond" books and films. Every one is extremely action packed, and they all are well written. Jesse uses great emphasis in showing his liking for this story. I am also going to hurry out to read this book as soon as possible so I am no longer less intelligent than the people who have read this book. But before I do so I need to ask Jesse a question. What event makes James Bond swear revenge on his foe?
My heart was touched after reading Sam’s review of Eragon. The picture he painted about the story makes me want to just jump into the book and live inside of it forever. His great use of non specific examples makes me not want to just read more about it, but explore more about this story. The next time I take a trip to the Ocean County Library, it is a no brainer what book I will be checking out. My question for Sam is, have you read any other books by Christopher Paolini, and if so, is Eragon your favorite and why?
Nick’s book review on Runner by Carl Deuker can only be described as two words. Rich and compelling. The word he uses to describe the book, such as “fast paced novel” novel makes me hook not only on my commitment to read this book, but also on the review itself. Not only is this book five stars, as Nick says, but the review is also 5 stars. My question for Nick is how do you personally relate to the sorrow that Chance feels throughout the story?
I really liked skimming through all the books my fellow classmates read, but i particularly liked Katie's and Lauren's book reviews.
I fell in love with Katie's, because it relates to all of us teenagers. I enjoyed very much how she put "war" into the review. It is like we, teenagers, are our own worst enemy. We love to rebel, and try to find our own way in life. So, Katie, how does Giselle cope with her stressful conflicts in her life? Does she do anything in the story to kind of escape her evils? Do you think Giselle's anorexia is her own way of rebelling to her father?
I must say, as twisted as this sounds, stories like Lauren's rock. I live for a good grusome story and this definitely caught my attention. It sounds suspenceful, intruging, scary, and dramtic all at the same time. So, Lauren, you noted that Clarice felt like the "under-dog" because she was the woman on the job. Does she still feel that way at the end of the story? Does the woman at work fail or succeed in her duties in the end, to prove all wrong or just to prove the point-women should not take a man's role?
-Cassie K.
I love to read, most people who know me are aware that reading is second nature to me. I'll most likely read every book my classmates read, but these are the two that stuck out.
Emily's book, Fried Green Tomatoes, has actually been a commonplace name in my house for years. But I never took time out to read it, hearing the way Emily reviewed it renewed my interest, and now I cannot wait to give it a shot. I wonder, why is it called Fried Green Tomatoes?
Ingo, Ange's book. I don't know, all I can ask is where do I get it? I love fantasy, i've spent all too many a day dreaming of being far from home. I'm going to be searching for this book until I find it. Ange gave me a delicious taste of what the book is like, and i'm hungry for more. Does Sapphire ever get to Ingo? Does her father come with her?
-Alison F.
After browsing through the many wonderful book reviews, I am surprised that four books remained unchosen. Katie takes the prize as the most persuasive salesperson, followed closely by Angie and Nick, who also attracted quite a few comments. But I am happy to question those four who, in my estimation, read very intriguing books as well.
First, I will respond to Dylan, who took on the task of reading an American classic, The Catcher in the Rye. Let me start by telling you that you have lightened your homework load in junior English by choosing this book, which you will no doubt be reading again next year. I was interested in Holden's adventures in NYC while he was holed up in the cheap hotel. Can you tell us a bit more about the kinds of challenges he faced as a young boy on his own in the big city?
Next, to Anthony, who read a truly intriguing story about a person who had his short term memory removed. (I feel like that person on a daily basis.) I love the title of this book, The Bumblebee Flies Anyway and want to know what it means. Can you use an example from the book to clarify why the author chose that title?
Next, to Maureen, who read Life As It Comes. I really enjoyed reading about the role reversal of the sisters, with the 15-year-old turning out to be the more responsible one. Does Mado take on a parenting role for Patty and how does Patty deal with the fact that her younger sister is more mature than she is?
And finally, to Alison, whose book The Fifth Horseman sounds really exciting and challenging to read. How did the danger to NYC in this crisis compare to what happened on 9/11? Did New Yorkers realize the danger they were in as a result of the tensions in the Middle East?
Thanks to all of the writers who provided such vivid descriptions of their books. You have given me some great reviews to read over the break, and perhaps even some good books to read!
After reading through all of the book reviews, the two that I found most interesting were Diane’s review of “Acceleration”, and Lauren’s review of “The Silence of the Lambs”. I always enjoy a good chiller book and “Acceleration” sounds like just that. I have always enjoyed stories of young people being put into seemingly impossible situations and seeing if they can prevail over the obstacle. I definitely plan to check this book out. What kind of work does Duncan do while working at the Lost and Found of the Toronto Transit System? How is he involved with the burglary?
In my opinion, the first time I saw “The Silence of the Lambs” film, I was amazed by not only the acting but the story as well. I have never read the book, but after reading Lauren’s review of it, I am tempted to check it out. To be honest, I didn’t even know there was a book of it. The book sounds just as awesome as the movie. Is Hannibal Lector successful in his plan to escape?
Post a Comment