Six of Crows
Author: Leigh Bardugo
Year: 2015
ISBN: 9781627792127
Abstract: "Six dangerous outcasts. One impossible heist. Kaz's crew is the only thing that might stand between the world and destruction--if they don't kill each other first"-- Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Olivia L. 9th Grade
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo is a dark fantasy novel set in a fictional world. In this world, there are Grisha. Grisha are from the country of Ravka, and their powers can range from healing and dealing damage to the body to manipulating elements.
The story follows Nina, Kaz, Inej, Jesper, Wylan, and Matthias on their journey to break into the Ice Court, the most impenetrable fort in the world and Matthias’s homeland, to rescue Bo Yul-Bayur.
Bo Yul-Bayur is a scientist who invented the addictive drug jurda parem. Jurda parem has the power to heighten the senses of the Grisha and make them unstable. Will the street-theives-turned-jail-breakers succeed before this information is in the wrong hands?
I really liked this book because of how immersive the world was. I will admit that there are several sub-plots and background stories woven into their journey, which could make it a difficult story to follow, but for me, this made it more interesting. They each have so many different facets to their goals and ambitions, and I enjoyed seeing them change throughout the story.
Book of the dead
Author: Michael Northrop
Year: 2015
ISBN: 9780545723381
Abstract: "Nothing can save Alex Sennefer's life. That's what the doctors say, but his mom knows it's not true. She knows that the Lost Spells of the Egyptian Book of the Dead can pull her son back from the brink. The problem? When she uses the spells, five Death Walkers are also brought back to life. An ancient evil has been unleashed. Long-dead mummies are awakening. New York City is overrun by scorpions. And worst of all for Alex, his mom and the Lost Spells have both disappeared. He and his best friend, Ren, will do anything to find his mom and save the world ... even if they have to go head-to-head with a Death Walker who has been plotting revenge for three thousand years"--Page 4 of cover.
Reviewed by Christian W. 11th Grade
The book Tomb Quest: Book of the Dead practically emits adventure. An adventure containing plenty of mummies, cultists and magic. The author Michael Northrop certainly knows what he's doing when it comes to making a story. Our story opens with a lot of plot heavy dialogue from the cultists. Then switches to the. Main character, Alex Sennefer. We find out that Alex has an unknown medical condition and he has to take special pills every day. We also meet his smart friend Ren Duran .Later, his mom disappears with some important artifacts. Alex and his friend Ren and an old professor. Have to find and stop the cultist and the mummy who they think kidnapped his mom. The best part of this book is the list of the alphabet and what hieroglyphs it corresponds to.
Captain Underpants and The Perilous Plot of Professor Poopypants
Author: the fourth epic novel by Dav Pilkey ; with color by Jose Garibaldi
Year: 2023
ISBN: 9781338864328
Abstract: Captain Underpants comes to the rescue when a science teacher goes off the deep end because students make fun of his name.
Reviewed by Christian W. 11th Grade
Captain underpants and the perilous plot of professor poopypants is a big success when it comes to the humor department. If you have ever enjoyed childish humor, then you will probably enjoy this book.The book starts out with the origin story of Professor Poopypants and why he seeks a job. But when he gets to the school, he gets laughed at by everyone.He finally snaps when George and Harold make a silly, but cruel comic about him. From there on he decided to take over the world. He uses the growth ray to make his robot suit bigger then he shrinks the entire school. Finally he threatens to shrink anyone who doesn't change their name to something silly. But with the well timed help of the growth ray and Captain Underpants.They finally defeat Professor Poopypants. My favorite part of this book is the chart where you can change your name to something hilarious.
Five nights at Freddy's. The silver eyes : the graphic novel
Author: by Scott Cawthon and Kira Breed-Wrisley ; adapted and illustrated by Claudia Schröder ; colors by Laurie Smith
Year: 2020
ISBN: 9781338627176
Abstract: "Ten years after the horrific murders at Freddy Fazbear's Pizza that ripped their town apart, Charlie -- whose father owned the restaurant -- and her childhood friends reunite on the anniversary of the tragedy and find themselves at the old pizza place which had been locked up and abandoned for years. After they discover a way inside, they realize that things are not as they used to be. The four adult-sized animatronic mascots that once entertained patrons have changed. They now have a dark secret ... and a murderous agenda."--Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Christian W. 11th Grade
Calling all lovers of things scary and creepy,this is a book for you! The book takes place in a town called Hurricane, a town that is still getting over the trauma of a terrible event that took place 10 years ago.The main characters have to deal with issues,mysteries and the evil animatronics connected with that tragedy . The thing I like most about the book is the art style.The art style does a good job at invoking fear,excitement,curiosity and sinister intent. I also like the design of the animatronics.The design is the same in the games,which I really appreciate. Finally if you look closely at some of the characters,their reactions are really funny.
The adventures of Tom Sawyer
Author: Mark Twain ; illustrated by True W. Williams
Year: 1999
ISBN: 9780517205761
Abstract: The adventures and pranks of a mischievous boy growing up in a Mississippi River town in the early nineteenth century.
Reviewed by Christian W. 11th Grade
Mark Twain's Tom Sawyer is a literary classic.You will really enjoy Tom's cleverness at tricking people ,even at the beginning of the book, his own aunt admitted to his cleverness. You will also enjoy the adventures he and his friends get into. The book kicks off with him stealing food and postponing punishment. Then comes the famous part of the book Tom convinces people they should be paying him to whitewash his fence. His method is very effective, leading to him getting a lot of trinkets.next follows his adventures in school, trying to make life more exciting.Later, he and his friends run away and go to an island. And also follows his adventure Injun Joe. Last but not least, his final adventure is Navigating through the caves and Getting out to safety.
I would rate this 10 out of 10 for adventure and humor.I really enjoyed reading it, especially the parts where Tom is tricking people.
Caraval
Author: Stephanie Garber
Year: 2017
ISBN: 9781250095251
Abstract: "Scarlett has never left the tiny island where she and her beloved sister, Tella, live with their ruthless father. Now Scarlett's father has arranged a marriage for her, and Scarlett thinks her dreams of seeing Caraval, the legendary, once-a-year performance where the audience participates in the show, are over. But this year, Scarlett's long-dreamt-of invitation finally arrives. With the help of a mysterious sailor who she has just met, Tella whisks Scarlett away to the show. Only, as soon as they arrive, Tella is kidnapped by Caraval's mastermind organizer, Legend. It turns out that this season's Caraval revolves around Tella, and whoever finds her first is the winner."-- Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Mariona N. 11th Grade
The book Caraval by Stephanie Garber is an excellent novel. It follows a girl named Scarlett as she takes a reluctant journey to play a secret, magical game in the hope of rescuing her sister. Not only is this book a fun fantasy romance; there's an endlessly twisty mystery element that had me finding new little hints and details even on my fourth read! The world of Caraval is described beautifully throughout the novel, and expanded on in equal detail throughout the sequels and spin-off series. The characters and relationships are very compelling. I think this book is best for 14-17 year olds.
Housemaid
Author: Freida McFadden
Year: 2022
ISBN: 9781538742570
Abstract: Every day I clean the Winchesters' beautiful house top to bottom. I collect their daughter from school. And I cook a delicious meal for the whole family before heading up to eat alone in my tiny room on the top floor. I try to ignore how Nina makes a mess just to watch me clean it up. How she tells strange lies about her own daughter. And how her husband Andrew seems more broken every day. But as I look into Andrew's handsome brown eyes, so full of pain, it's hard not to imagine what it would be like to live Nina's life. I only try on one of Nina's pristine white dresses once. Just to see what it's like. But soon she finds out - and by the time I realize my attic bedroom door only locks from the outside, it's far too late. But I reassure myself that the Winchesters don't know who I really am. And they don't know what I'm capable of.
Reviewed by Yasmine B. High School
I recently read the book “Housemaid” by Freida Mcfadden. I’d been craving for something to put me on the edge of my seat, since my love for thrillers only grows every day. This book tells the story of a woman who takes a job as a maid in a rich family’s home, but finds out something twisted is going on. The beginning was slow, and it took a lot for me to trudge through the boring details. But that’s what eventually hooked me. Those “boring” details led to something sinister as the plot thickens. Nina (the wife that lives there) has wild erratic behavior, and you can tell something is off about her. But her cruel actions towards the main character make sense at the end of the book, which made me realize how much I love twists. The story flips completely in the middle, and all the characters I trusted looked extremely different. The sense of danger feels very real when you’re reading the book, and has you hating and loving the characters at the same time. Anyways, great book!
Remarkably Bright Creatures
Author: Shelby Van Pelt
Year: 2022
ISBN: 9780063204157
Abstract: "For fans of A Man Called Ove, a luminous debut novel about a widow's unlikely friendship with a giant Pacific octopus reluctantly residing at the local aquarium-and the truths she finally uncovers about her son's disappearance 30 years ago"-- Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Olivia L. 9th Grade
This story is told from three characters perspectives on their journeys to find closure, love, and family. It takes place in Sowell Bay, Washington.
Marcellus the Octopus is a Giant Pacific Octopus who lives at the aquarium and forms an unlikely friendship with the cleaning lady, Tova. He knows his life will end soon, and his last wish is for Tova to have closure and find lost family.
Tova Sullivan cleans the aquarium to fill the loss caused by her 18 year old son Erik’s disappearance and her late husband. She thinks that she will grow old alone, with only the vacant cleaning position at the aquarium marking her passing. That is, until Cameron Cassmore shows up in town.
Cameron Cassmore lived with his aunt after his mother abandoned him when he was young. He is broke and unable to hold down a job, so he decides to track down his absent father and beg for 18 years of missed child support to put him back on his feet. What he learns about his father and the small town of Sowell Bay are enough to turn multiple lives around, not just his own.
I didn’t think that I would like this book very much when I picked it up, but I ended up loving it. The way that Tova and Cameron’s stories start very far apart but grow more intertwined is super interesting. I especially loved how Marcellus’s narratives were told from his perspective, which added a ton of foreshadowing and truly showed how smart octopuses really are.
Where We Come From
Author: Oscar Cásares
Year: 2019
ISBN: 9780525655435
Abstract: "From the acclaimed author Brownsville and Amigoland--a stunning and timely new novel about a Mexican-American family in a Texas border town who reluctantly become involved in smuggling immigrants into the United States. Brownsville, Texas, has a dangerous reputation: it sits on the U.S. side of the bridge into Matamoros, Mexico, a city controlled by notorious cartels. But that isn't why 12-year-old Orly doesn't want to visit. Though he's still grieving the death of his mother, his father, Victor, is making him spend the summer in Brownsville with his godmother, Nina. Now a successful ad executive in Houston, Victor was raised in Brownsville and thinks it will do Orly good to know about his less-privileged roots. But Nina, distracted by having to care for her elderly mother, seems only to have rules for Orly. In particular: Don't go near the back house. . . Nina has spent her own life following rules and sacrificing her own desires for others' needs. But when a single act of kindness toward her desperate Mexican cleaning lady begins to spiral out of control, Nina risks exposure from all sides--not only from her curious godson and her controlling brother, but from ruthless human traffickers and the police. Now, Nina will have to face the secrets she's long kept if she has any hope of helping the people suddenly under her care. Tackling the crisis of U.S. immigration policy from an unusual, deeply humane angle, Where We Come From explores the ways that family history shapes us, how secrets can burden us, and how finding compassion and understanding for others can ultimately set us free"-- Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Hazel J. 10th Grade
Where We Come From is a novel written by Oscar Cásares is a book that humanizes the struggles of the people who live on the U.S-Mexico Border. The book humanizes the illegal immigration issue and talks about the many sides of the story, like the coyotes, illegal immigrants, and the people living on the boarder. The book delves into right and wrong, and how it is not such a black and white issue. The author himself lived right by the border and has witnessed these issues. The book does go through a different character almost every chapter, so it can be a little difficult keeping track of which character one is reading. For people who are interested in how different policies and how these issues affect people’s lives, I would highly recommend this book.
The cruel prince
Author: Holly Black
Year: 2018
ISBN: 9780316310277
Abstract: Jude was seven years old when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King. To win a place at the Court, she must defy him--and face the consequences. As Jude becomes more deeply embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, she discovers her own capacity for trickery and bloodshed. But as betrayal threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself. From #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Black comes the first book in a stunning new trilogy filled with twists and enchantment, as one girl learns the meaning of true power when she finds herself caught in a web of royal faerie intrigue--From dust jacket.
Reviewed by Hazel J. 10th Grade
Cruel Prince by Holly Black is one of the most exciting books I have ever read. It is a fantasy book about a human girl who lives with faeries. The book had so many twists and turns that kept me on my toes, and I ended up staying up all night just to finish the book. Holly black is an excellent storyteller because you fall in love with the characters and the story, as the plot unfolds. Unfortunately, while the book is an exciting read, the relationships are not healthy, and are slightly on the toxic side. Overall, Cruel Prince by Holly Black is a thrilling book that you should not miss out on.
Jacob Have I Loved
Author: Katherine Paterson
Year: 1980
ISBN: 9780690040791
Abstract: Feeling deprived all her life of schooling, friends, mother, and even her name by her twin sister, Louise finally begins to find her identity.
Reviewed by Hazel J. 10th Grade
Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson is one of the best books I have ever read. It tells the struggles of the main character Louise being in her sister Caroline’s Shaddow. Louise works hard but is never appreciated for all the hard work she does for her family. This story is so good and delves into the themes of jealousy and really works in emotion into the writing. I spent a whole night reading the book because I loved it so much. This is a book where the main character is not perfect and struggles. You fall in love with Louise and root for her and cry for her. Jacob Have I Loved is a read you cannot miss
I Must Betray You
Author: Ruta Sepetys
Year: 2022
ISBN: 9781984836038
Abstract: In a country governed by isolation, fear, and a tyrannical dictator, seventeen-year-old Cristian Florescu is blackmailed by the secret police to become an informer, but he decides to use his position to try to outwit his handler, undermine the regime, give voice to fellow Romanians, and expose to the world what is happening in his country. Includes author's note.
Reviewed by Havel J. 10th Grade
I must Betray you by Ruta Sepetys is one of the best books you will ever read. It is a historical fiction about a boy, Cristian Florescu, growing up amidst the Romanian Revolution during the 1989. The book has so many twists and turns that one would not see coming. The Romanian government is oppressive, but Cristian is selected to spy on friends and family for them. The book delves into the themes of right and wrong and how it is never black and white, especially when people are trying to survive. For those who love a historical fiction with action, this is the book for you.
The Naturals
Author: Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Year: 2023
ISBN: 9780316540629
Abstract: Seventeen-year-old Cassie Hobbes is a natural at reading people. Piecing together the tiniest details, she can tell you who you are and what you want. But, it's not a skill that she's ever taken seriously. That is, until the FBI come knocking: they've begun a classified program that uses exceptional teenagers to crack infamous cold cases, and they need Cassie. What Cassie doesn't realize is that there's more at risk than a few unsolved homicides--especially when she's sent to live with a group of teens whose gifts are as unusual as her own. Soon, it becomes clear that no one in the Naturals program is what they seem. And when a new killer strikes, danger looms close. Caught in a lethal game of cat and mouse with a killer, the Naturals are going to have to use all of their gifts just to survive.
Reviewed by Olivia L. 9th Grade
When Cassie was little, her mother taught her how to profile someone. When Cassie was 12, her mother was murdered. Now, 5 years later, she is living with her father’s family when a boy shows up at the diner where she works and recruits her for an elite FBI program. This program uses group of teens with special talents to solve cold cases. But soon, a serial killer starts imitating Cassie’s mother’s murder, and in doing so, draws the group into a live investigation. Near the end of the book, Cassie discovers that the killer was much, much closer than she thought.
I absolutely loved this book because there were small hints throughout the book that tied into massive plot twists at the end. Right when I thought I knew what was happening, something changed and my entire view got flipped!
xxxHolic
Author: Clamp ; translated and adapted by Anthony Gerard ; lettered by Dana Hayward
Year: 2004
ISBN: 9780345470584
Abstract: Watanuki Kimihira is haunted by visions of ghosts and spirits. By chance, a mysterious witch named Yuko claims she can help. In desperation, he accepts but realizes he's just been tricked into working for Yuko.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
xxxHolic is a Japanese manga series by CLAMP about a highschool student named Kimihiro Watanuki, who can see spirits but has seen it as a curse for most of his life. He is forced to work at a wish granting shop run by the witch Yūko Ichihara as payment to get rid of his supernatural abilities.
I really liked this read! The art style is very beautiful and pays attention to detail. The story was not too hard to follow for me, and was not to overwhelming to read. The charaters are also easily likeable. I also think its very realistic about real problems that people have in real life. Will be getting more volumes!
Mashle
Author: story and art by Hajime Komoto ; translation, Nova Skipper ; touch-up art and lettering, Eve Grandt
Year: 2021
ISBN: 9781974719297
Abstract: Can muscles crush magic?! In the magic realm, magic is everything--everyone can use it, and one's skill determines their social status. Deep in the forest, oblivious to the ways of the world, lives Mash. Thanks to his daily training, he's become a fitness god. When Mash is discovered, he has no choice but to enroll in magic school, where he must beat the competition without revealing his secret--he can't use magic! Mash just wants to live in peace with his father in the forest. But the only way he'll ever be accepted in the magic realm is by attending magic school and becoming a Divine Visionary--an exceptional student revered as one the chosen. But without an ounce of magic to his name, Mash will have to punch his way to the top spot. -- From volume 1.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
Mashle, Magic and Muscle is a manga seires created by Hajime Komoto about a boy named Mash Burnedead who is powerless but physically strong. Mash must enroll in a respected magic academy to live peacefully in a world full of witches and wizards, all while only using his muscles.
This manga was hilarious! You can imagine the shock on my face when I first read this book and noticed that it was HEAVILY inspired by Harry Potter. The characters in this manga are also easily likeable. I find the relationship that Mash has with his dad very heartwarming. I also was cracking up because of the way Mashs' dad and Brad were just watching over Mash like little guardian angels once he got into the Magic academy! One thing I didn't really like about this manga is that Mash basically wins every fight, which is kinda boring but it's still overall a nice read, I do recommend!!
Children of the sea
Author: Daisuke Igarshi ; [translation, JN Productions ; touch-up art & lettering, Jose Macasocol]
Year: 2009
ISBN: 9781421529141
Abstract: Ruka meets two boys at the aquarium. All three hear the strange calls from the sea.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
Children of the Sea is a manga series made by Daisuke Igarashi, about a girl named Ruka who creates a bond with two boys, named Umi and Sora, who were raised in the ocean by sea creatures. They all want to solve a supernatural mystery including the ocean and its creatures.
This manga was very nice to read. As soon as I started the book I immediately got island/vacation vibes. The character designs and art style are a 10/10! When you look at the background of a panel it almost looks like a real picture! I also feel like I can relate to Ruka a lot because when I was younger I just got so angry and I would say or do things which I definitely regretted later. I find it so cute how Umi and Sora care for each other! I will definitely be getting more of this series and watching the anime!!
Snow White with the red hair
Author: Sorata Akiduki ; translation, Caleb Cook ; touch-up art & lettering, Brandon Bovia
Year: 2019
ISBN: 9781974707201
Abstract: "Unwilling to become the prince of Tanbarun's possession, beautiful red-haired herbalist Shirayuki seeks shelter in the woods of the neighboring kingdom, where she gains an unlikely ally--the prince of that kingdom."--Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
Snow White with the red hair is a fantasy romance manga created by Sorata Akiduki. Our main character, a herbalist named Shirayuki has to flee from a prince who wants her to become his concubine. While on the run, Shirayuki ends up meeting and befriending Prince Zen, an heir to a nearby kingdom.
I think Shirayuki is a wonderful heroine!
I love how she doesn't let people walk all over her. I will say that the storyline is kinda boring. There wasnt much happening in the book but if you dont want to much action or thrill then this could be for you!
Weathering with you
Author: story by Makoto Shinkai ; art by Wataru Kubota ; translation, Melissa Tanaka
Year: 2020
ISBN: 9781949980837
Abstract: "The summer of freshman year of high school. A boy named Hodaka runs away from his island home and goes to Tokyo, where he spends every day in loneness. Then, in a corner of the bustling city he meets a girl named Hina. But he soon finds out that she possesses a mysterious power."--Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
Weathering with You is a romance manga written by Makoto Shinkai and illustrated by Wataru Kubota. The story follows our main character, Hodaka, who has run away from home. He soon meets a girl named Hina who has the power to control the weather in an always rainy Tokyo.
This manga was a nice read and the art & visuals were good too. It was kind of hard to follow at first but I was able to figure out the plot after a while. I will say some moments have me on the edge of my seat! Although I wouldn't say too much is going on, other than those short moments. I think I'll have to get the other two volumes to know. It's a good manga if you want a chill read though.
Project Hail Mary : a novel
Author: Andy Weir
Year: 2022
ISBN: 9780593135204
Abstract: "A lone astronaut. An impossible mission. An ally he never imagined. Ryland Grace is the sole survivor on a desperate, last-chance mission--and if he fails, humanity and Earth itself will perish. Except that right now, he doesn't know that. He can't even remember his own name, let alone the nature of his assignment or how to complete it. All he knows is that he's been asleep for a very, very long time. And he's just been awakened to find himself millions of miles from home, with nothing but two corpses for company. His crewmates dead, his memories fuzzily returning, Ryland realizes that an impossible task now confronts him. Hurtling through space on this tiny ship, it's up to him to puzzle out an impossible scientific mystery--and conquer an extinction-level threat to our species. And with the clock ticking down and the nearest human being light-years away, he's got to do it all alone. Or does he? An irresistible interstellar adventure as only Andy Weir could imagine it, Project Hail Mary is a tale of discovery, speculation, and survival to rival The Martian-while taking us to places it never dreamed of going" --Publisher's description.
Reviewed by Rebecca A. 8th Grade
This novel follows Ryland Grace, a scientist who is about 13 light years away from Earth. He wakes up with no memory of why he is in space or why his crew mates are dead. Throughout the story, flashbacks make him realize he is on a one way mission to save humanity. An alien species is eating the sun and it is his job to find a way to stop them. But that slips his mind when he meets an intelligent alien, that he calls Rocky. Him and Rocky have the same goal, to save their species. So they decide to work together. Their journey is grueling, but saving their species must be worth it, so they continue on and in the end they find answers no one could expect.
I rate this book five out of five stars because I couldn’t put it down. The book made me question so many things but the ending left nothing unanswered. I recommend this book to anyone who loves science fiction due to its accuracy in scientific aspects. Ultimately this novel has been the best of 2026 so far and I can’t wait to read it again.
Hakumei & Mikochi : tiny little life in the woods
Author: Takuto Kashiki ; translation: Taylor Engel ; lettering: Abigail Blackman
Year: 2018
ISBN: 9781975381189
Abstract: "Deep within a lush, green forest live Hakumei and Mikochi. Making their home in trees, using leaves for umbrellas, and riding bugs for transportation is just part of everyday life for these tiny pals!"-- Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
Hakumei & Mikochi is a Japanese manga series made by Takuto Kashiki, that follows two very tiny girls, Hakumei and Mikochi, and their daily lives & adventures with their animal and human friends in a fairy tale forest.
This read was very cozy and peaceful!! All the chibi characters were so cute too! Definitely a book you can read before you go to bed or when you need comfort. I also love the contrast between the seemingly simple chibi character designs and the complex and detailed background art. I believe anyone of any age can read this book and I highly recommend it!
Kitchen Princess
Author: [art by] Natsumi Ando ; story by Miyuki Kobayashi ; translated by Satsuki Yamashito ; adapted by Nunzio DeFilippis and Christina Weir ; lettered by North Market Street Graphics
Year: 2007
ISBN: 9780345496201
Abstract: Najika left the rural orphanage she knows as home to attend Seika Academy in Tokyo in the hopes of finding a boy who touched her heart years earlier. Nobody in her class thinks she should be there except two brothers, Daichi and Sora, who recognize Najika's magical talent for cooking.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
Kitchen Princess is a shoujo manga series drawn by Natsumi Ando and written by Miyuki Kobayashi. The story follows a young girl named Najika Kazami who enjoys cooking and wishes to become a great chef. She enrolls in the prestigious Seika Academy to find the boy who saved her when she was little and gave her a flan with a silver spoon, and also to achieve her dream.
I loved the shoujo 2000s vibes this book was giving! I also love that at the end of the manga, it includes yummy recipes from the book so you can try and make them yourself! The art style is also very cute. The relationship between the two brothers was really heartwarming and reminded me of my sister and me! Definitely a nice manga that kids can read so I recommend!!
The crucible : a play in four acts
Author: Arthur Miller ; with an introduction by Christopher Bigsby
Year: 2003
ISBN: 9780142437339
Abstract: "I believe that the reader will discover here the essential nature of one of the strangest and most awful chapters in human history, " Arthur Miller wrote in an introduction to The Crucible, his classic play about the witch-hunts and trials in seventeenth-century Salem, Massachusetts. Based on historical people and real events, Miller's drama is a searing portrait of a community engulfed by hysteria. In the rigid theocracy of Salem, rumors that women are practicing witchcraft galvanize the town's most basic fears and suspicions; and when a young girl accuses Elizabeth Proctor of being a witch, self-righteous church leaders and townspeople insist that Elizabeth be brought to trial. The ruthlessness of the prosecutors and the eagerness of neighbor to testify against neighbor brilliantly illuminate the destructive power of socially sanctioned violence. Written in 1953, The Crucible is a mirror Miller uses to reflect the anti-communist hysteria inspired by Senator Joseph McCarthy's witch-hunts in the United States. Within the text itself, Miller contemplates the parallels, writing: "Political opposition ... is given an inhumane overlay, which then justifies the abrogation of all normally applied customs of civilized behavior. A political policy is equated with moral right, and opposition to it meets with diabolical malevolence."
Reviewed by Elizabeth V. 11th Grade
The Crucible by Arthur Miller is a play that dramatizes the 1692 Salem witch trials. It follows a group of girls led by another, Abigail Williams, as they accuse others of witchcraft. Some of the girls themselves are based off of those involved within the real-life Salem witch trials. When you look deeper in the book after reading, you realize the ties it has to the anti-communist hysteria of the 1950s during the McCarthy era. I find the allegory profoundly interesting as it mixes these two pieces of history. Moreover, I find the way Miller writes the play itself fun and entertaining as it explores the themes of mass hysteria.
The Metamorphosis
Author: Franz Kafka ; translated with an introduction by Michael Hofmann
Year: 2008
ISBN: 9780143105244
Reviewed by Elizabeth V. 11th Grade
The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka is a very interesting, short read. It follows a traveling salesman by the name of Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one day to find out that he's been converted to a giant insect. Throughout the book, it's easy to recognize how conditional the love his family had for him. Even his sister, who initially cared, eventually finds him to have became a burden. I find the way Kafka writes extremely interesting as well, and it made the read super enjoyable. Additionally, the way he explores the themes of dehumanization through an absurd situation such as this makes it such a great book.
Of mice and men
Author: John Steinbeck
Year: 2002
ISBN: 9780142000670
Abstract: In Depression-era California, two migrant workers dream of better days on a spread of their own until an act of unintentional violence leads to tragic consequences.
Reviewed by Elizabeth V. 11th Grade
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck was such a beautiful, saddening read for me. It follows two friends by the name of George and Lennie as they try to follow their dream of owning land together. The book itself was written during the 1930s, the decade in which the Great Depression occurred. As such, it explores the loneliness and the inaccessibility of the American Dream that was experienced during that time. Additionally, I find it beautiful that two people as different as George and Lennie, found each other and kept each other company. This book was such an amazing read and I think it's a must-read for all.
Dracula
Author: Bram Stoker
Year: 2010
ISBN: 9780143106166
Abstract: Presents the tale of a bizarre Carpathian count who drinks human blood to stay alive, and the Englishman who knows his secret.
Reviewed by Elizabeth V. 11th Grade
Dracula by Bram Stoker is, in all honesty, the best book I've read in a while. The book is written in a form I haven't seen before. It's told through letters and diary entries, making it all the more interesting and personal. It follows the story of a vampire named Count Dracula as a group, lead by Professor Van Helsing, try to hunt him down. The book itself is famous for its depiction of vampires, as it became the blueprint for what we know vampires to be now. However, I think the source material itself is much more interesting than any current depictions. I think it's a must read for anyone interested in vampires and the like.
The elusive samurai
Author: story and art by Yusei Matsui ; translation & English adaptation John Werry ; touch-up art & lettering John Hunt
Year: 2022
ISBN: 9781974732517
Abstract: "In medieval Japan, eight-year-old Hojo Tokiyuki is the heir to the Kamakura shogunate. But the Hojo clan is in decline, and Tokiyuki's peaceful days of playing hide-and-seek with his teachers come to an abrupt end when his clan is betrayed from within. The lone survivor of his family, Tokiyuki is the rightful heir to the throne, but to take it back, he'll have to do what he does best--run away! After the massacre of his family by the traitor Ashikaga Takauji, Tokiyuki flees with the help of a handful of loyal retainers who have also survived the purge. One of them is Suwa Yorishige, an ally of the Hojo clan and lord of Suwa province. The slightly odd Yorishige also claims to be clairvoyant and foretells that Tokiyuki will one day become the ruler of Japan. But for the moment, escaping from enemy territory is the priority!" -- Back cover.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
The Elusive Samurai is a Japanese manga series written and drawn by Yusei Matsui. This story is about a young boy named Hojo Tokiyuki, who must use his talent of fleeing to reclaim his family's throne after being brutally betrayed by Ashikaga Takauji, who was once a noble warrior.
I first heard about this manga because of the anime that was released, and I'm honestly glad I read the manga. The art style was definitely not watered down in the anime, and also gave it a very clean, precise vibe. I also loved the humor in this manga and definitely caught myself laughing a few times! Although the storyline isn't really for me, I can admit I do like this manga overall and I will be giving the anime a watch!
My good side : a memoir
Author: Scheana Shay
Year: 2025
ISBN: 9781538773352
Abstract: "Before eleven seasons of record-breaking TV, two Emmy nominations, and a chart-topping podcast, Scheananigans, Scheana thought signing on to the Real Housewives' spin-off show, Vanderpump Rules, was a steppingstone to reaching her ultimate goal of becoming a successful actress in Hollywood. After appearing on shows like 90210, Jonas, and Victorious, Vanderpump Rules would be a piece of cake. But from the very first season, Scheana clashed with her fellow cast members. Barbs were thrown, friendships dissolved, and Scheana was left in the rubble trying to navigate the complexities of having her life and relationships filmed for a television audience. On camera, she got used to being called every name in the book, from homewrecking whore to a pick-me and bad friend. But off camera, there's always been a different side of Scheana, pieces of her that didn't make it into the final edit of tidy, forty-minute television episodes. In My good side , Scheana pulls back the layers of who she really is and shares all sides of her-the good, bad, and messy-bringing readers on a wild nostalgia trip through the early days of Vanderpump Rules, while recounting jaw-dropping stories from her Hollywood black book, including setting the record straight on her relationship with Eddie Cibrian. She reveals how her outlook on love has evolved and led her to a daughter she was told she may never have. From being bullied as a kid to being bullied by the Witches of WeHo, Scheana has seen it all, and together she and her fans can laugh, cry, and reminisce on all the drama, heartbreak, and celebrations over the years"-- Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Lina H. 7th Grade
The Book I reviewed was “My Good Side: A memoir” and I gotta tell you, it’s an amazing read! It feels like you're on a call with a friend who experienced some crazy things in her life, there are so many plot twists and something new happening every chapter. If you like surprises I highly recommend giving this book a chance. Scheana is a strong woman. She stayed on her feet throughout everything she’s been through. I also love how she made a little section for photos inside the book, every person looked just as I imagined! I always thought reading was a smart-person hobby, never found it amusing. Like sitting down and reading words off paper? That was the most boring-est thing anyone could do! Reading this book really changed my perspective.I hope I can find more books that have Scheana's writing style.
We are legion : (we are Bob)
Author: Dennis E. Taylor
Year: 2017
ISBN: 9781680680584
Abstract: "Bob Johansson has just sold his software company and is looking forward to a life of leisure. There are places to go, books to read, and movies to watch. So it's a little unfair when he gets himself killed crossing the street. Bob wakes up a century later to find that corpsicles have been declared to be without rights, and he is now the property of the state. He has been uploaded into computer hardware and is slated to be the controlling AI in an interstellar probe looking for habitable planets. The stakes are high: no less than the first claim to entire worlds. If he declines the honor, he'll be switched off, and they'll try again with someone else. If he accepts, he becomes a prime target. There are at least three other countries trying to get their own probes launched first, and they play dirty. The safest place for Bob is in space, heading away from Earth at top speed. Or so he thinks. Because the universe is full of nasties, and trespassers make them mad -- very mad." -Amazon
Reviewed by Asher L. 9th Grade
We are Legion (We are Bob) is a hilarious sci-fi novel by Dennis Taylor, written in 2016, about a young man, Bob, who dies and becomes a half AI with incredible processing power and the ability to replicate. His conscience is then launched on a rocket ship to space where he creates more versions of himself and has many epic adventures. He discovers life on new planets, battles rival probes, and eventually spreads to the far reaches of the universe. This book was a fun read but may be a little difficult for less advanced readers. The humor is dry but still funny. The author is also well versed in all the technicalities required to write a book about many complex theoretical ideas. We are Legion (We are Bob) is a must read for anyone who is a fan of Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, similar futuristic sci-fi books, or anyone who loves a good laugh.
For we are many
Author: Dennis E. Taylor
Year: 2017
ISBN: 9781680680591
Abstract: "Bob Johansson didn't believe in an afterlife, so waking up after being killed in a car accident was a shock. To add to the surprise, he is now a sentient computer and the controlling intelligence for a Von Neumann probe. Bob and his copies have been spreading out from the Earth for 40 years now, looking for habitable planets. But that's the only part of the plan that's still in one piece. A system-wide war has killed off 99.9% of the human race, nuclear winter is slowly making the Earth uninhabitable, a radical group wants to finish the job on the remnants of humanity, the Brazilian space probes are still out there, still trying to blow up the competition, and the Bobs have discovered a spacefaring species that sees all other life as food."--Publisher's description.
Reviewed by Asher L. 9th Grade
For We are Many is the sequel to We are Legion (We are Bob) by Dennis Taylor. It is a sci-fi thriller that has many great laughs in it. While this book was slightly less well received than the first in the trilogy, reading it is still a good use of time. This book is a tough read and may be hard for learning or younger readers due to the in-depth scientific explanations. The humor in this novel is somehow dryer than the last and is sometimes not as funny as the author predicted. In total this is a fantastic book on space exploration and I would recommend it to many people, regardless of their favorite genre.
What if? : serious scientific answers to absurd hypothetical questions
Author: Randall Munroe
Year: 2014
ISBN: 9780544272996
Abstract: "Millions of people visit xkcd.com each week to read Randall Munroe's iconic webcomic. His stick-figure drawings about science, technology, language, and love have a large and passionate following. Fans of xkcd ask Munroe a lot of strange questions. What if you tried to hit a baseball pitched at 90 percent the speed of light? How fast can you hit a speed bump while driving and live? If there was a robot apocalypse, how long would humanity last? In pursuit of answers, Munroe runs computer simulations, pores over stacks of declassified military research memos, solves differential equations, and consults with nuclear reactor operators. His responses are masterpieces of clarity and hilarity, complemented by signature xkcd comics. They often predict the complete annihilation of humankind, or at least a really big explosion. The book features new and never-before-answered questions, along with updated and expanded versions of the most popular answers from the xkcd website. What If? will be required reading for xkcd fans and anyone who loves to ponder the hypothetical. "-- Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Asher L. 9th Grade
What if is a fantastic book by Randall Munroe, and personally my favorite of all time. It takes crazy hypothetical questions from the internet and applies hard science to them. This book is not easy to read. There are many equations and calculations from maths such as calculus 2 and beyond. I would recommend it for any advanced or older student, but not for anyone with a reading level equivalent to a middle schooler or below. If you are a fan of other books such as “Humble Pi” and “We Have No Idea” this will be an excellent read. All in all, this is a literary masterpiece on the crazy questions people have and how a well respected mathematician
What if? 2 : additional serious scientific answers to absurd hypothetical questions
Author: Randall Munroe
Year: 2022
ISBN: 9780525537113
Abstract: "The #1 New York Times-bestselling author of What If? and How To provides his best answers yet to the weirdest questions you never thought to ask The millions of people around the world who read and loved What If? still have questions, and those questions are getting stranger. Thank goodness xkcd creator Randall Munroe is here to help. Planning to ride a fire pole from the moon back to Earth? The hardest part is sticking the landing. Hoping to cool the atmosphere by opening everyone's freezer door at the same time? Maybe it's time for a brief introduction to thermodynamics. Want to know what would happen if you rode a helicopter blade, built a billion-story building, made a lava lamp out of lava, or jumped on a geyser as it erupted? Okay, if you insist. Before you go on a cosmic road trip, feed the residents of New York City to a T. rex, or fill every church with bananas, be sure to consult this practical guide for impractical ideas. Unfazed by absurdity, Randall consults the latest research on everything from swing-set physics to airplane-catapult design to clearly and concisely answer his readers' questions. As he consistently demonstrates, you can learn a lot from examining how the world might work in very specific extreme circumstances. Filled with bonkers science, boundless curiosity, and Randall's signature stick-figure comics, What If? 2 is sure to be another instant classic adored by inquisitive readers of all ages"-- Provided by publisher.
Reviewed by Asher L. 9th Grade
What If 2 is a book by Randall Munroe. In it, he takes “absurd hypothetical questions from the internet” and applies complex mathematical equations and computation to actually find the answers. It is technically the sequel to What If but can be read separately from the original book as it has the same premise and short chapter-stories. This book is not for beginner or intermediate readers. It is very difficult to understand and is for an audience of young adults and people into advanced math. This book is a really great read, and I would recommend it to anyone with a high reading level who enjoys a good laugh.
The Martian : a novel
Author: Andy Weir
Year: 2021
ISBN: 9780553418026
Abstract: "Six days ago, astronaut Mark Watney became one of the first people to walk on Mars. Now, he's sure he'll be the first person to die there. After a dust storm nearly kills him and forces his crew to evacuate while thinking him dead, Mark finds himself stranded and completely alone with no way to even signal Earth that he's alive--and even if he could get word out, his supplies would be gone long before a rescue could arrive. Chances are, though, he won't have time to starve to death. The damaged machinery, unforgiving environment, or plain-old 'human error' are much more likely to kill him first. But Mark isn't ready to give up yet. Drawing on his ingenuity, his engineering skills--and a relentless, dogged refusal to quit--he steadfastly confronts one seemingly insurmountable obstacle after the next. Will his resourcefulness be enough to overcome the impossible odds against him?"--Publisher
Reviewed by Asher L. 9th Grade
The Martian is a book by Andy Weir about a man named Mark Watney who becomes stranded on Mars. The book is set up to seem as if you are reading Watney's logs in conjunction with seeing the reactions and ideas of the NASA engineers trying to save him. Throughout the book Weir provides hilarity and makes entertainment plentiful in the scramble to save a person in need. I would recommend this book to anyone, and I strongly believe that one day it will be the Hemingway of the 21st century. By far, one of the best books you will ever read.
Project Hail Mary : a novel
Author: Andy Weir
Year: 2025
ISBN: 9780593135228
Abstract: "A lone astronaut. An impossible mission. An ally he never imagined. Ryland Grace is the sole survivor on a desperate, last-chance mission--and if he fails, humanity and Earth itself will perish. Except that right now, he doesn't know that. He can't even remember his own name, let alone the nature of his assignment or how to complete it. All he knows is that he's been asleep for a very, very long time. And he's just been awakened to find himself millions of miles from home, with nothing but two corpses for company. His crewmates dead, his memories fuzzily returning, Ryland realizes that an impossible task now confronts him. Hurtling through space on this tiny ship, it's up to him to puzzle out an impossible scientific mystery--and conquer an extinction-level threat to our species. And with the clock ticking down and the nearest human being light-years away, he's got to do it all alone. Or does he? An irresistible interstellar adventure as only Andy Weir could imagine it, Project Hail Mary is a tale of discovery, speculation, and survival to rival The Martian-while taking us to places it never dreamed of going" --Publisher's description.
Reviewed by Asher L. 9th Grade
Project Hail Mary is a science fiction novel written by Andy Weir. In it, the protagonist is forced to go on a suicide mission to save earth. Chaos ensues and he meets unlikely friends that help him save the day. This is a fantastic book for older readers that is definitely in the top ten books of all time. There are some thematic elements, and parents may want to review this book before giving it to young children, but for middle to high school students it should be fine. In all, this is a great book that is a must read for many people.
Yona of the dawn. 1
Author: story & art by Mizuho Kusanagi ; English adaptation, Ysabet Reinhardt MacFarlane ; translation JN Productions
Year: 2016
ISBN: 9781421587813
Abstract: "Princess Yona lives an ideal life as the only princess of her kingdom. Doted on by her father, the king, and protected by her faithful guard Hak, she cherishes the time spent with the man she loves, Soo-won. But everything changes on her 16th birthday when she witnesses her father's murder! Yona reels from the shock of witnessing a loved one?s murder and having to fight for her life. With Hak's help, she flees the palace and struggles to survive while evading her enemy's forces. But where will this displaced princess go when all the paths before her are uncertain?" -- Page 4 of cover.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
Yona of the Dawn is a popular shoujo manga made by Mizuho Kusanagi about a young girl named Yona, who is forced to flee her kingdom on her birthday, with her bodyguard, Hak, after a tragedy hits. She and Hak set out on an adventure to find legendary dragon warriors to reclaim her throne.
Monthly girls' Nozaki-kun. 1
Author: Izumi Tsubaki ; translation, Leighann Harvey ; lettering, Lys Blakeslee
Year: 2015
ISBN: 9780316309479
Abstract: "To the eyes of classmate Chiyo Sakura, high school student Umetarou Nozaki--brawny of build and brusque of tongue--is a dreamboat! When Chiyo finally works up the courage to tell Nozaki how she feels about him, she knows rejection is on the table...but getting recruited as a mangaka's assistant?! Never in a million years! As Chiyo quickly discovers, Nozaki-kun, the boy of Chiyo's dreams, is a manga artist...a hugely popular shoujo manga artist, that is! But for someone who makes a living drawing sweet girly romances, Nozaki-kun is a little slow on the uptake when it comes to matters of the heart in reality. And so Chiyo's daily life of manga making and heartache begins!"--Page 4 of cover.
Reviewed by Kylah D. 7th Grade
Monthly Girls' Nozaki-Kun is a Japanese yonkoma comedy manga by Izumi Tsubaki. It follows Chiyo Sakura who confesses to her crush, Umetarou Nozaki, only to find out that he's a quite popular shoujo manga artist who mistakenly thinks she's⁹ a fan of his work and hires her as a manga assistant.
Project Hail Mary
Author: Andy Weir
Year: 2021
ISBN: 9780593395561
Abstract: The sole survivor on a desperate, last-chance mission to save both humanity and Earth, Ryland Grace is hurtled into the depths of space when he must conquer an extinction-level threat to our species.
Reviewed by Komrad B. 11th Grade
Project Hail Mary is a fun and unique sci-fi book that starts off with a doomsday scenario, in which the Earth's Sun is having its energy drained by space-dwelling microbes called Astrophage, which puts the Earth in peril as it is losing its source of heat and light. The Protagonist, Ryland Grace, is a microbiologist who wakes up on board a ship without any of his memories of how he got there, but he soon remembers what's happening to Earth, and why he is on the ship: he's on a suicide mission to study the one nearby star system that astrophage hasn't been able to drain. In this system (Tau Ceti), Grace discovers an alien ship with a small alien on board (Rocky), and Grace soon finds out that Rocky's home star is undergoing a similar process. Grace and Rocky work together, learn to speak to each other, and become friends as they explore Tau Ceti, eventually solving the astrophage problem.
Neuromancer
Author: William Gibson ; series introduction by Neil Gaiman
Year: 2016
ISBN: 9780143111603
Abstract: Henry Dorsett Case was the sharpest data-thief in the Matrix, until an ex-employer crippled his nervous system. Now a new employer has recruited him for a last-chance run against an unthinkably powerful artificial intelligence. With a mirror-eyed girl street-samurai riding shotgun, he's ready for the silicon-quick, bleakly prophetic adventure that upped the ante on an entire genre of fiction.
Reviewed by Komrad B. 11th Grade
Neuromancer is a dark, gritty sci-fi novel that is not afraid to throw you into an unfamiliar world with little explanation. The book follows Case, a hacker who had his nervous system damaged and tampered with by some previous shady employers, and he is looking for a "cure" so that his nervous system can be repaired and so that he can re-enter cyberspace again and continue working. Case gets hired by a man named Armitage, and works together with a cyborg named Molly to free a trapped Artificial Intelligence named Wintermute, so that they and the AI can do a high-stakes hacking job. Case and Molly embark on various heists throughout the book, eventually coming to the home of the Tessier-Ashpools, the family that created Wintermute. Wintermute starts working against Case and the team, and merges with Neuromancer, a counterpart AI, to become powerful and unstoppable. Case, however, gets his cure and heals his nervous system in the end. This was a really unique book, but I found it could be pretty confusing at times, because Gibson's writing style often let the explanations for the environment slowly come in over the course of the book, rather than being immediately clear at the beginning. Neuromancer is a tough read, but for those who can read it and who enjoy gritty sci-fi, I'd certainly recommend it.