Young Adult Books
Books-Under-Review-->Arts-->Literature-->Authors-->Young Adult-->11
Related Subjects: Stine, R.L. Pike, Christopher Lowry, Lois Paulsen, Gary Cormier, Robert Dessen, Sarah Alexander, Lloyd Hinton, S.E. Nicholson, William
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Related Subjects: Stine, R.L. Pike, Christopher Lowry, Lois Paulsen, Gary Cormier, Robert Dessen, Sarah Alexander, Lloyd Hinton, S.E. Nicholson, William
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Young Adult Books sorted by
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Velvet Room
Published in Library Binding by Tandem Library (2004-06-07)
List price: $25.05
New price: $25.05
Average review score: 

Pleased
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-19
Review Date: 2007-01-19
Book hard to find, received in condtion stated, great pacaging, shipping times as stated. Would purchase from seller again.
I loved this as a child
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-10
Review Date: 2007-01-10
I was trying to find a book for my 10 year old granddaughter for Christmas and remembered this book from my childhood. I was very excited I was able to find it for her
Fatastic!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-08
Review Date: 2007-01-08
I am 48 and read this book when I was much, much younger; however, I never forgot this book. It is probably by far the best book I have ever read (and I have read many). I was very happy to see it in print again. I bought the book (again) to add to my collection.
The Velvet Room
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-10-25
Review Date: 2006-10-25
After reading so many of the reviews I found it funny to see so many written by woman like me who after 30 years re-found this book from their chidhood memory. I have four daughters and of course I have recommended this book to them. I will re-read this book for years to come.
Out of all the books I have read throughout my life, this book still stays in my head. Lisa
Out of all the books I have read throughout my life, this book still stays in my head. Lisa
'The Velvet Room' brings back fond memories
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-24
Review Date: 2007-02-24
It's been decades since I was a young reader at Sevilla Elementary School in Phoenix, entranced with reading as many library books as I could carry home every few days.
Usually, I only checked out each title once. One book, however, kept me coming back for more: "The Velvet Room."
Maybe it was because the heroine in the book had a secret place of her own, something as the middle child among five siblings my world definitely lacked. I'm not sure, though, as it has been many years since I've picked up a copy.
Thanks, Zlipha Keatley Snyder. Your work filled many otherwise blah afternoons with the adventure found only in great children's fiction.
Someday, hopefully soon, I will take another look at the story - this time through the eyes of an adult. Will I still like it? I can't say for sure.
Young people of today, however, likely will. The need for personal space is timeless.
I'd suggest this book as a great gift for any young girl who loves to read.
-- RuthAnn
Usually, I only checked out each title once. One book, however, kept me coming back for more: "The Velvet Room."
Maybe it was because the heroine in the book had a secret place of her own, something as the middle child among five siblings my world definitely lacked. I'm not sure, though, as it has been many years since I've picked up a copy.
Thanks, Zlipha Keatley Snyder. Your work filled many otherwise blah afternoons with the adventure found only in great children's fiction.
Someday, hopefully soon, I will take another look at the story - this time through the eyes of an adult. Will I still like it? I can't say for sure.
Young people of today, however, likely will. The need for personal space is timeless.
I'd suggest this book as a great gift for any young girl who loves to read.
-- RuthAnn
The Betrayal
Published in Hardcover by Demco Media (1993-08)
List price:
Average review score: 

great
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-03
Review Date: 2008-05-03
this came to me in great shape and just what i wanted. thank you
Interesting
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-22
Review Date: 2008-01-22
I highly recommend the Betrayel because it will tell you the secret about the unspeakable terror that has haunted Fear street for the last 300 years. Its about this girl name susannah goode falls in love with Edward Feir and they both want to get married. But Edwards father forbids him from seeing her so he framed susannah and her mother of being witches and burned them at the stake. William Goode , Susannah`s father , wanted revenge against the feir family so he traveled to every colony to find them. This book will tell all about two feuding who caused terror on fear street for 300 years.
Fear Street Rocks
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-03
Review Date: 2007-09-03
I am 24 years old and I still love Fear Street. I read this saga over 10 years ago and I started thinking about it a few months ago for some reason. I looked in book stores but it was order only, so I didn't bother. Finally my husband told me to go on Amazon and order it. After all, we would be going to the beach for Labor Day weekend and I don't like going into the water, so reading material is a must.
I'm almost done with the first book, and I love it. I feel like a teen again.
I'm almost done with the first book, and I love it. I feel like a teen again.
Murphy's review
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-14
Review Date: 2007-03-14
I really like this book because of the mystery and the betrayal and also the dark things that happen. In the book there is a example of betrayal between the two families because the Feirs light a huge fire
at the Goodes, house and believe it or not the Goodes and the Feirs use to be friends.
This book takes place in Massachusetts where two families the Goodes, and the Feirs have been in a battle for years.There had been a great fire that had taken two special people away from William Goode. One was his wife Martha Goode ,the other was Susannah Goode, his daughter. Now William seeks revenge on Matthew and his whole family.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes mystery and horror books and R.L Stine books.There is a second book but I have not chosen to read it because it gets slow at the end and they talk about the same things over and over.
at the Goodes, house and believe it or not the Goodes and the Feirs use to be friends.
This book takes place in Massachusetts where two families the Goodes, and the Feirs have been in a battle for years.There had been a great fire that had taken two special people away from William Goode. One was his wife Martha Goode ,the other was Susannah Goode, his daughter. Now William seeks revenge on Matthew and his whole family.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes mystery and horror books and R.L Stine books.There is a second book but I have not chosen to read it because it gets slow at the end and they talk about the same things over and over.
a betraying story
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-06-13
Review Date: 2006-06-13
This book 'The Betrayal' is about a revenge that had lasted for three hundred years. I loved it so much I decided to read all the sagas. It took me less than one day to finish the whole book. I couldn't put the book down that i took it to the dining room!
It starts off when there was a pretty but poor girl called Susannah Goode. She was told that there was 'the Evil One'. She fell in love with a rich man called Edward Fier. But his father Benjamin Fier refused to let them marry. He wanted him to marry another rich girl. When Edward kept refusing to marry another rich girl that his father had arranged, Benjamin made Susannah and her mother go to prison by making her like a witch. Edward now felt that he was betrayed by her.
When the two women were burnt at stake, Susannah's father William Goode vowed revenge.
Many years later Edward's cousin, Mary, met a young man. She fell in love with him. But many horrible things happened. Then one by one some of the Fiers died except Mary and Edward. Have William Goode gone too far?
If you can read books without any trouble with killings and blood, this book can suit you.
It starts off when there was a pretty but poor girl called Susannah Goode. She was told that there was 'the Evil One'. She fell in love with a rich man called Edward Fier. But his father Benjamin Fier refused to let them marry. He wanted him to marry another rich girl. When Edward kept refusing to marry another rich girl that his father had arranged, Benjamin made Susannah and her mother go to prison by making her like a witch. Edward now felt that he was betrayed by her.
When the two women were burnt at stake, Susannah's father William Goode vowed revenge.
Many years later Edward's cousin, Mary, met a young man. She fell in love with him. But many horrible things happened. Then one by one some of the Fiers died except Mary and Edward. Have William Goode gone too far?
If you can read books without any trouble with killings and blood, this book can suit you.

Faeries (25th Anniversary Edition)
Published in Hardcover by Harry N. Abrams (2002-10-29)
List price: $24.95
New price: $13.46
Used price: $9.00
Collectible price: $22.00
Used price: $9.00
Collectible price: $22.00
Average review score: 

TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVARSARY EDITION FAERIES
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-03
Review Date: 2008-05-03
I LOVE THIS BOOK ABOUT FAERIES. I READ IT OVER AND OVER.
THANK YOU
PEGGY BOND
THANK YOU
PEGGY BOND
Faeries (25thAnniversary Edison)
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-27
Review Date: 2008-03-27
I've begun a bit of Faery book collecting and this was a great selection to sort of tie my many books together. The book is just like new and I saved quite a bit on the price. I am very faery happy!
Beautiful!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-09
Review Date: 2008-02-09
The illustrations are hauntingly beautiful and the whole book just flows wonderfully. Really lets you feel as if you know all about the fairies...both good and bad!
Faeries the deceptive book
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-08
Review Date: 2008-01-08
This particular book is highly reviewed by many people. It is a love/hate kind of book. Either you love the story and lore, or you hate the imagery. If you want a book with a light hearted story and fluffy lore with beautiful pixies/faeries; this is NOT the right book. The ads for this book deceptively illustrated a different set of contents. So please check the negitive reviews too!
A Spellbinding Book
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-31
Review Date: 2007-12-31
Alan Lee and Brian Froud's timelessly classic volume on fairies was published in 1978 to critical acclaim and instant popular success, making this enchanting book a must have for any child at heart. I know liking fairies is very girlie but I just can't help it! I love them oh so much and have since I owned Cicely Mary Barker's little "flower fairies" books as a young child. With its pencil drawings, numerous colour illustrations throughout and witty text the book is a pleasure to look at time and time again, one always discovers something new. This charming book dwells not just upon the innocent fairies but encompasses all the denizens of the world of faery from the sweet natured and gentle nature sprites to several of their much darker elemental cousins. Faeries is evocative of another era in time when people truly believed in fairies, elves, dwarves, brownies, hobgoblins and the like. Focusing primarily on the fairies and related creatures of The British Isles it is an eccentric and lovely journey into the Anglo-Celtic folklore of these green and verdant island nations. This collaborative effort by Alan Lee and Brian Froud is probably one of their most beloved books and one can immerse oneself in their imaginative world for hours, you really do lose track of time.
Although both artists careers have gone on to grander things like working as conceptual artists on big budget films and TV shows this first effort at the beginning of their careers stands as an enduring testament to their combined talents. The art of both men is quite different in style, character and tonal value but in Faeries they complement each other in an aesthetic marriage of shared vision and belief. Brian Froud after all these years is still thoroughly immersed in the world of faery with many books on fairies and goblins to his credit, like for example Good Faeries/Bad Faeries. He also went on to work in film as a conceptual artist, bringing his idiosyncratic and unique talent to bear on two of the late Jim Henson's fantasy films, The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. Alan Lee went off on a different course illustrating books on ancient myth and legend and perhaps painting his most famous book illustrations for the sweeping and elegiac novels of J.R.R. Tolkien. In recent years Alan Lee was hired to work on the film versions of The Lord of the Rings as the chief concept artist (along with John Howe) his work on these three groundbreaking movies gave them a credibility they might not have had otherwise.
But this wondrous volume is still for me one of their most outstanding achievements and although many such books were published in the 1970s, Faeries is definitely at the top of the heap. This sumptuous 25th anniversary edition of Faeries has eight extra pages with twenty new pieces of artwork and newly updated introductions so it is definitely a must have for the serious fairy lover and fan of the original book. I only ever owned the softcover of the original book... so when this special edition came out in hardback I rushed to my local bookstore and purchased it immediately. Mr. Lee and Mr. Froud implore us to believe in the world of faery once again, and to be honest in this sterile modern world it would be nice to believe it actually does exist. Sprinkle some fairy dust on yourself and go out and buy this entrancing book and bring a bit of glamor into your life!
Although both artists careers have gone on to grander things like working as conceptual artists on big budget films and TV shows this first effort at the beginning of their careers stands as an enduring testament to their combined talents. The art of both men is quite different in style, character and tonal value but in Faeries they complement each other in an aesthetic marriage of shared vision and belief. Brian Froud after all these years is still thoroughly immersed in the world of faery with many books on fairies and goblins to his credit, like for example Good Faeries/Bad Faeries. He also went on to work in film as a conceptual artist, bringing his idiosyncratic and unique talent to bear on two of the late Jim Henson's fantasy films, The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. Alan Lee went off on a different course illustrating books on ancient myth and legend and perhaps painting his most famous book illustrations for the sweeping and elegiac novels of J.R.R. Tolkien. In recent years Alan Lee was hired to work on the film versions of The Lord of the Rings as the chief concept artist (along with John Howe) his work on these three groundbreaking movies gave them a credibility they might not have had otherwise.
But this wondrous volume is still for me one of their most outstanding achievements and although many such books were published in the 1970s, Faeries is definitely at the top of the heap. This sumptuous 25th anniversary edition of Faeries has eight extra pages with twenty new pieces of artwork and newly updated introductions so it is definitely a must have for the serious fairy lover and fan of the original book. I only ever owned the softcover of the original book... so when this special edition came out in hardback I rushed to my local bookstore and purchased it immediately. Mr. Lee and Mr. Froud implore us to believe in the world of faery once again, and to be honest in this sterile modern world it would be nice to believe it actually does exist. Sprinkle some fairy dust on yourself and go out and buy this entrancing book and bring a bit of glamor into your life!

My Family and Other Animals
Published in Paperback by Penguin (Non-Classics) (1977-03-31)
List price: $8.95
New price: $3.11
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $10.00
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $10.00
Average review score: 

You'll end up reading this one over and over again...
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-02-21
Review Date: 2006-02-21
I must say this is one of the most light-hearted, hilarious books I have ever read. The story is of a world that one really may not get to see these days.. Go ahead and buy it..
Way better than Croc Hunter
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2004-06-30
Review Date: 2004-06-30
In todays day and age of Steve Erwin and Jeff Corbin who go around hunting for animals, it is easy to forget where it all started. With people like Gerald, and the London zoo. In this book, he collects animals, deals with his demented siblings and his long suffering mother who has to raise four kids and fend off the advances of a really persistent Colonel who gets increasingly vulgar and `grabby' when he drinks. This is a rare story that combines a humorous story with humorous writing and I once caused passengers in a flight to turn around and give me strange looks, so hard was I laughing.
Skeleton of a Plot embellished with tonnes of vocab
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2003-11-17
Review Date: 2003-11-17
My Family and Other Animals is a bare-bones story in terms of plot. The Durrell family goes to Corfu, lives through what could be termed as a soap opera, and leaves. It's humourous, but not particularly challenging.
However, the older Gerald Durrell utilises vivid vocabulary over and over when describing the setting and people of Corfu. Fifteen-letter words that paint a crystalline picture are used frequently, relieving the never-ending roller coaster that is the life of the Durrells.
Overall, this is a highly entertaining book that will keep you engaged for the week or so that you will spend reading it every spare second you have.
I wish I could give it 6 stars!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2005-08-09
Review Date: 2005-08-09
This book is absolutely, brilliantly funny. The wit and unique characterizations are woven with great descriptions of the animals and plants of Corfu. That Durrell can hold the attention of readers who have no interest in biology simply demonstrates what a fine work this is. Gerald's depiction of a larger-than-life expatriate family on a larger-than-life Greek island is a tremendous celebration of life. The variety of different Greek characters parading through this book rivals the variety of Corfu's flora and fauna. Absolute great read!
the funny Durrell
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-04-24
Review Date: 2005-04-24
Gerald Durrell was not only a naturalist and a gifted writer about his beloved animals, but a loving brother and son whose descriptions of his family and their foibles will keep you laughing all the way through. This is one of those books which I've reread so many times I've lost count, and which I've given to many friends who needed cheering up. Always works, too!
Lifted Up by Angels
Published in Unknown Binding by Bt Bound (1999-09-30)
List price: $12.70
Average review score: 

A review of Lifted Up By Angels
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-17
Review Date: 2007-01-17
Do you like stories with friends that stick together forever? If you do you might like this book by Lurlene McDaniel. The story is about Ethan and Leah, are teenagers who are best friends. The story is about Ethan who is Amish goes and visits Leah who I an the hospital for nine days, diagnosed with bone cancer is the worst one week and two days for her especially for her because her mom an her husband are on a cruise out so she's all alone luckily she gets out the hospital Ethan's by her side. They have a strong love for each other is a very inspirational story about Leah and Ethan You will love this book I enjoyed it very much.
An enjoyable book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-04
Review Date: 2006-03-04
Lifted up by angels is a lovely book that explains life betweem Leah and the amish. It is and experiencing book for people to explore.
i love this book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2004-02-11
Review Date: 2004-02-11
this book is a great book to read and it helps you to understand the hardships that some families have in their everyday life. i think it is really inspiriational and it can teach you things you may not have known.
{*Ethan, Leah, Neil, Rebecca, Love, Romance, Hate, Two Worlds, Excitement!*}
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-18
Review Date: 2005-10-18
I love this book!! I love the lurlene mcdaniel books because they are romantic, love stories!
This book is about a girl who falls for a Amish guy and He falls in love with her, and ...... WOW! SEE SOME SPARCKS??
This book is about a girl who falls for a Amish guy and He falls in love with her, and ...... WOW! SEE SOME SPARCKS??
Keep getting better as they go up
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2003-12-06
Review Date: 2003-12-06
As you can gather from the name, in my oppinion the second book was much better than the first book. In this novel, Leah goes to work during the summer near the Amish community. She meets up with Ethan and Charity, and though things seem to be going good at first, many conflicts spring up during her stay. The more she falls for Ethan, the more problems seem to occur. You should deffinately read this book.

A Mango-Shaped Space
Published in Paperback by Little, Brown Young Readers (2005-10-19)
List price: $7.99
New price: $2.80
Used price: $1.99
Used price: $1.99
Average review score: 

Delightful, useful book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-31
Review Date: 2008-03-31
Wendy Mass's A Mango Shaped Space is an enlightening book about a girl with a condition called synesthesia which heightens the senses and "crosses" them, allowing people to taste sounds, see noises, give colors to letters and words, etc. The book is very informational, in fact, it gives the readers several pages of factual information about the condition through the voice of a university researcher. In addition to promoting understanding of a condition that the book says impacts 1 in 500 people, it also deals with the theme of coping with death, the theme of the importance of friendship, and the theme of first love/romance. The ending of the book is satisfactory, and it ends on a positive message. There is little in the book that would be terribly controversial, so it could be used as a classroom accompaniment of a book of similar theme without too much concern.
The information in the book about synesthesia occurs during the main character Mia's first trip to the neurology department at the University of Chicago's medical center. Mia has been to her pediatrician, who referred her to a psychiatrist, who finally referred her to the University. She has kept the secret of her synesthesia for 13 years, until just recently, and is dealing with her peers and family not understanding it. The information that the neurologist, Dr. Jerry Weiss, gives Mia is in depth but easy to understand. It is a good resource for a student with synesthesia, or friends of the student because it not only gives scientific facts about the condition, but also gives a first person account of how it manifests, and what to expect when talking to people about it.
The saddest part of the book deals with the death of Mia's beloved cat, Mango. In the excitement of flirting with a boy, Mia forgets to give Mango a pill that allows him to breathe properly, and accidentally leaves him outside on a rainy night. She deals with the guilt of the thought that her actions caused the death of her pet (who she believes is a reincarnation of her deceased grandfather), but it is later revealed that Mango's health was failing before Mia's forgetfulness was even factored in. The theme is also touched on in the life of Mia's best friend, Jenna, an only child who lost her mother to a terminal illness. Jenna's father is starting to date again, and Jenna is still coping with the death of her mother, a few years prior.
The themes of first romance and importance of friendship are pretty common themes of coming-of-age stories, and are thoughtfully incorporated into the thread of the story. Of two love interests, Mia picks the kind, caring boy, Roger, who helps her deal with the death of Mango, after recently dealing with the death of his own dog.
The writing itself flows nicely through most of the book. Most characters have believable ideas and dialogue, and Mia's family, though quirky, is believable. One character, however, Mia's younger brother Zack, speaks in sarcastic, overly "cool" comebacks. He is written as an eleven-year-old, but his dialogue is reminiscent the overly sophisticated banter of the characters on Dawson's Creek. When Mia asks Zack about his teaching their sister, Beth, about superstitious beliefs, Zack snaps, "Hey, the Voodoo Vixen came to me, not the other way around"(75). The dialogue of Dr. Jerry Weiss is also obviously used to inform the reader. The information, though, isn't tiring or unnecessary, but it does seem pretty obvious to the reader that it is there for a reason.
The book was an entertaining read, and it was easy to feel sympathetic for Mia's character, especially at the death of her cat. I'd recommend this book to 9th grade readers, possibly a lower tier 10th grade reader, or anyone interested in learning about synesthesia. Thematically, it could pair with a classic book with the theme of coping with the death of a loved one.
The information in the book about synesthesia occurs during the main character Mia's first trip to the neurology department at the University of Chicago's medical center. Mia has been to her pediatrician, who referred her to a psychiatrist, who finally referred her to the University. She has kept the secret of her synesthesia for 13 years, until just recently, and is dealing with her peers and family not understanding it. The information that the neurologist, Dr. Jerry Weiss, gives Mia is in depth but easy to understand. It is a good resource for a student with synesthesia, or friends of the student because it not only gives scientific facts about the condition, but also gives a first person account of how it manifests, and what to expect when talking to people about it.
The saddest part of the book deals with the death of Mia's beloved cat, Mango. In the excitement of flirting with a boy, Mia forgets to give Mango a pill that allows him to breathe properly, and accidentally leaves him outside on a rainy night. She deals with the guilt of the thought that her actions caused the death of her pet (who she believes is a reincarnation of her deceased grandfather), but it is later revealed that Mango's health was failing before Mia's forgetfulness was even factored in. The theme is also touched on in the life of Mia's best friend, Jenna, an only child who lost her mother to a terminal illness. Jenna's father is starting to date again, and Jenna is still coping with the death of her mother, a few years prior.
The themes of first romance and importance of friendship are pretty common themes of coming-of-age stories, and are thoughtfully incorporated into the thread of the story. Of two love interests, Mia picks the kind, caring boy, Roger, who helps her deal with the death of Mango, after recently dealing with the death of his own dog.
The writing itself flows nicely through most of the book. Most characters have believable ideas and dialogue, and Mia's family, though quirky, is believable. One character, however, Mia's younger brother Zack, speaks in sarcastic, overly "cool" comebacks. He is written as an eleven-year-old, but his dialogue is reminiscent the overly sophisticated banter of the characters on Dawson's Creek. When Mia asks Zack about his teaching their sister, Beth, about superstitious beliefs, Zack snaps, "Hey, the Voodoo Vixen came to me, not the other way around"(75). The dialogue of Dr. Jerry Weiss is also obviously used to inform the reader. The information, though, isn't tiring or unnecessary, but it does seem pretty obvious to the reader that it is there for a reason.
The book was an entertaining read, and it was easy to feel sympathetic for Mia's character, especially at the death of her cat. I'd recommend this book to 9th grade readers, possibly a lower tier 10th grade reader, or anyone interested in learning about synesthesia. Thematically, it could pair with a classic book with the theme of coping with the death of a loved one.
LOOK AT ALL THE COLORS!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-09
Review Date: 2008-03-09
Seeing shapes and colors when ever you hear sounds would be amazing! But it could get in the way of trying to go through your normal everyday life though. Mia, the main character in the novel A Mango-Shaped Space does. This book, by Wendy Mass, tells you about the little known condition called "synesthesia", as it gives you the point of view of someone who has the condition. This book is great for readers of all ages and genders. It is also a quick read with a surprise ending that could interfere with Mia's "colors"...
Really great, really interesting
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-14
Review Date: 2008-02-14
By making this a young adult/preteen book, Wendy Mass has almost written herself into a corner (but not really). Mia (the main character) has a voice that is simple and somewhat bland, which is to be expected of someone her age. That she says certain things she says, does others, and acts the way she does only works because she's an eighth grade girl. It makes the story both more realistic, but also a bit simpler and emptier, like it's been watered down. Basically, it makes the story younger and more appropriate for younger readers as well, who will relate to Mia with ease.
Other than that, though, this is an excellent book. Nobody can ignore the originality factor. In an age where many books have extremely similar subject matters, "A Mango-Shaped Space" is both intriguing and fresh. Few people know of synaesthesia's existence and while this will not be the greatest read for older readers (uninterested in the drama of fourteen year old girls), it will not only appeal to teens, but will get them interested and aware.
The characterization is also very good. I liked that everybody was really believable, from Mia's older sister and younger brother, to her parents, to her friends. It was refreshing to find that Mia was not a flawless person (she "cheats" (or, for her, cheats) on a math test). In general, the book is just so readable and the story so interesting, one can't help but get sucked in.
An intriguing story, a casual, easy read, and a really wonderful book for the aforementioned age group. Highly recommended!
Other than that, though, this is an excellent book. Nobody can ignore the originality factor. In an age where many books have extremely similar subject matters, "A Mango-Shaped Space" is both intriguing and fresh. Few people know of synaesthesia's existence and while this will not be the greatest read for older readers (uninterested in the drama of fourteen year old girls), it will not only appeal to teens, but will get them interested and aware.
The characterization is also very good. I liked that everybody was really believable, from Mia's older sister and younger brother, to her parents, to her friends. It was refreshing to find that Mia was not a flawless person (she "cheats" (or, for her, cheats) on a math test). In general, the book is just so readable and the story so interesting, one can't help but get sucked in.
An intriguing story, a casual, easy read, and a really wonderful book for the aforementioned age group. Highly recommended!
Not just for kids!!!!!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-24
Review Date: 2007-09-24
This book is an amazing story from start to finish. I just couldn't put it down. And I'm far from a being a kid, at age 49!
Good book on a fascinating subject
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-03
Review Date: 2007-09-03
Here's what I like about A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass: The plot is extremely interesting and really, for lack of a better word, new. Mass talks about a condition that most people have never even heard of and she just runs with it.
Here's what I don't like: Mass is at pains throughout the novel to make sure everyone knows her narrator is young. I also have mixed feelings about it winning an award (the Kaplan award I believe) for artistically representing life with a disability.
Here's some information so you can actually understand what I'm going on about: Okay, so the book follows thirteen-year-old Mia. Mia has synesthesia, a neurological condition that allows her to see letters and numbers in color. As the blurb on the back of the book states, Mia named her cat Mango because that is the color of his breathing. That is, you will agree, pretty cool. The action of the story starts when Mia realizes she can no longer keep her condition a secret from her friends and family because it's starting to interfere with her schoolwork. So Mia starts going to doctors and she finally meets people just like her.
So, on one level, this story is about dealing with synesthesia. But it also has a lot more going on. Mia's grandfather has recently died and, as readers will learn, Mango's place in the story is intricately tied to that of Mia's grandfather. At the end of the day, more than being about dealing with a disability (I'm not even sure I like calling synesthesia a disability) A Mango-Shaped Space is about accepting who you are and coping with the harder parts of life.
I read this book back-to-back with Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian so comparisons are inevitable. What I found really interesting is that Alexie's narrator is only a year older than Mia, but the story is clearly appropriate for teens--I'd never give it to a ten year old for instance. Mass' novel, on the other hand, could just as easily be cataloged as a Children's book rather than Young Adult (left to my own devices I think I would do just that). Why? Well, like I said, Mass makes sure we know how young Mia is. Revelations like Mia never previously sitting with a boy at lunch or attending a boy-girl party abound in the narrative--sometimes unnecessarily.
At the same time, the material is just less heavy. The tone is lighter and the characters are a little less developed so that their hurts never quite hit home. I'm not sure if this is a bad thing though--it just makes it clear, while reading, that the book could be appropriate for a younger audience.
I'd definitely give this book a look though. The prose is easy to digest and the story is really interesting. And, surprisingly, the story features a lot of characters who are just as interesting to meet as Mia (with her synesthesia)--Mia's little brother Zach is a particular favorite for this reviewer.
Here's what I don't like: Mass is at pains throughout the novel to make sure everyone knows her narrator is young. I also have mixed feelings about it winning an award (the Kaplan award I believe) for artistically representing life with a disability.
Here's some information so you can actually understand what I'm going on about: Okay, so the book follows thirteen-year-old Mia. Mia has synesthesia, a neurological condition that allows her to see letters and numbers in color. As the blurb on the back of the book states, Mia named her cat Mango because that is the color of his breathing. That is, you will agree, pretty cool. The action of the story starts when Mia realizes she can no longer keep her condition a secret from her friends and family because it's starting to interfere with her schoolwork. So Mia starts going to doctors and she finally meets people just like her.
So, on one level, this story is about dealing with synesthesia. But it also has a lot more going on. Mia's grandfather has recently died and, as readers will learn, Mango's place in the story is intricately tied to that of Mia's grandfather. At the end of the day, more than being about dealing with a disability (I'm not even sure I like calling synesthesia a disability) A Mango-Shaped Space is about accepting who you are and coping with the harder parts of life.
I read this book back-to-back with Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian so comparisons are inevitable. What I found really interesting is that Alexie's narrator is only a year older than Mia, but the story is clearly appropriate for teens--I'd never give it to a ten year old for instance. Mass' novel, on the other hand, could just as easily be cataloged as a Children's book rather than Young Adult (left to my own devices I think I would do just that). Why? Well, like I said, Mass makes sure we know how young Mia is. Revelations like Mia never previously sitting with a boy at lunch or attending a boy-girl party abound in the narrative--sometimes unnecessarily.
At the same time, the material is just less heavy. The tone is lighter and the characters are a little less developed so that their hurts never quite hit home. I'm not sure if this is a bad thing though--it just makes it clear, while reading, that the book could be appropriate for a younger audience.
I'd definitely give this book a look though. The prose is easy to digest and the story is really interesting. And, surprisingly, the story features a lot of characters who are just as interesting to meet as Mia (with her synesthesia)--Mia's little brother Zach is a particular favorite for this reviewer.

Into the Cold Fire (Daughters of the Moon #2)
Published in Hardcover by Volo (2000-08-01)
List price: $9.99
New price: $1.26
Used price: $0.77
Collectible price: $10.00
Used price: $0.77
Collectible price: $10.00
Average review score: 

Into Confusion and Oblivion
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-08
Review Date: 2007-04-08
I don't know how Lynne Ewing came up with this story. I was looking forward to reading about Serena because she seemed to be one of the more interesting characters and I was left sorely disappointed. I don't understand how you can have a romance in a book and not really give the reader anything to go on. If Serena can't remember her memories, then how are we supposed to get a feel for a connection between her and Stanton? They had absolutely no chemistry to me. Stanton and Vanessa seemed to have more chemistry (later I found out Lynne Ewing was originally going to hook those two up). Too bad Lynne didn't hook Michael up with someone else later in the series. Personally, I think Vanessa and Stanton would have made a better couple. I understand others might have a different opinion, but that's just how I feel about it.
I give it two stars for at least being well-written, if not the most interesting or the best of the series. So far, it's my least favorite.
I give it two stars for at least being well-written, if not the most interesting or the best of the series. So far, it's my least favorite.
Into the Cold Fire Review By: Diana
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-10-18
Review Date: 2006-10-18
This book is about a girl who might be endangered by a groupd of people who is after her. These group of people are bad people who try to bring good people to the bad side. This book is a magical book with girls who have powers and they are trying to fight the bad people away. I liked this book because each character has a different personality and different ways to handle things in situations dealt together.
A Review of Into the Cold Fire.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-10-17
Review Date: 2006-10-17
I thought this book was good. It had a lot of action in it. I also liked it because it had magical powers that noone in real life could have. This book is great for teens who like a little bit of romance, drama, and action.
Daughters of the Moon: Anairis Review
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-29
Review Date: 2005-10-29
This is a story everybody should read including teenagers like us.We could relate some things from ourlife.This book is about a girl finding out what she was ment for.She wouldn't let anything about having a boyfriend keep her down.This story was romantic,action,and true friendship.Serena must know why the Antrox are after her and Jemina has a premonition that Serena is going to betray them.Then Venessa comes again and turns invisible to keep away from from the cold fire.Another thing how could cold fire be cold.Serena was the one who can go through it and save her own friends life.Jemina was thankful that she could try to be more trustworthy and see what the inside from not her premonitions and see for herself.Serena is phychic and she is one of mysteries of the Daughters of the Moon. If you want to hear more about the Daughters of the Moon check out the Volume 3.Jemina couldn't stop thinking of Veto who died last year and he appears in her kitchen.While she was going to ask him what is he doing here he comes up and kisses her in the mouth .Was her feelings still strong?She felt his cheeck and his small scar that was warm.What do you think of that if you want hear more check it out!
Daughters of the moon...the story continues...
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-02-19
Review Date: 2006-02-19
NOTE: PLEASE READ THE FIRST BOOK BEFORE YOU READ THIS BOOK. THE STORY WILL BE RUINED IF YOU DO NOT READ THE OTHER TWO BOOKS FIRST. THIS STORY IS HARD TO FOLLOW IF YOU DO NOT EVERYTHING ABOUT THE SERIES AND ALL THE REALATIONSHIPS. THIS BOOK IS POORLY WRITTEN AND HARD TO FOLLOW IF YOU DON'T READ THE FIRST BOOK.
Serena is a goddess, a daughter of the moon. Sent by Selene to protect the human beings from an ancient evil called the Atrox. Jimena, Serena, Vanessa, and Catty are all daughters of the moon. Each of them has a unique gift. Vanessa can become invisible, Catty can travel in time, Serena reads minds, and Jimena sees into the future. Lynne Ewing has designed all of the books to show us everyone's point of view at different times. This book is based on Serena.
The story beginns with Serena at the beach with her brother Collin. Collin is a surfer. Serena gets a little bored watching him surf so she walks down the beach until she stumbles into a party. A girl dressed in a dress throws herself into a fire. Everyone at the party cheers Lecta. Serena at first thinks the girl's name is Lecta. Serena freaks about because a girl threw herself into the fire but then sees that the fire flames are blue. Stanton suddenly calls out to Serena, then all of the sudden she wakes up. Serena is covered with cuts thinking she fell into the ocean. Her brother come's and finds her and asks her what happened, but she can't remember.
Morgan gets a crush on Collin, Serena's brother. Serena can't stand Morgan and doesn't think that Collin and her would be good together. Then Çollin tells her one day that Morgan thinks Serena needs a boyfriend. Serena is very angry and can't help but wonder if Collin agrees with Morgan. To add to all of the mess, Jimena and Collin start fighting. Serena isn't sure she can handle the preasure. To top it off Serena's crushing on a new kid at school.
Then Jimena tells Serena a vision she had. Serena gets very upset because she doesn't want to destroy the daughters of the moon. But Jimena's vision have always come true. A few days later Stanton come's and tells her that she needs to be careful about the new kid at school. He also tells Serena that he erased her memories on the beach. Serena is very shocked by this. Then Stanton tells her that Stanton and her were in a relationship. A few nights later Serena reads Collins mind about Jimena. Then once the secret of the new kid is revealed the key gets thrown into the cold fire. This book tests the faith between all of the girls, and there values.
Serena is a goddess, a daughter of the moon. Sent by Selene to protect the human beings from an ancient evil called the Atrox. Jimena, Serena, Vanessa, and Catty are all daughters of the moon. Each of them has a unique gift. Vanessa can become invisible, Catty can travel in time, Serena reads minds, and Jimena sees into the future. Lynne Ewing has designed all of the books to show us everyone's point of view at different times. This book is based on Serena.
The story beginns with Serena at the beach with her brother Collin. Collin is a surfer. Serena gets a little bored watching him surf so she walks down the beach until she stumbles into a party. A girl dressed in a dress throws herself into a fire. Everyone at the party cheers Lecta. Serena at first thinks the girl's name is Lecta. Serena freaks about because a girl threw herself into the fire but then sees that the fire flames are blue. Stanton suddenly calls out to Serena, then all of the sudden she wakes up. Serena is covered with cuts thinking she fell into the ocean. Her brother come's and finds her and asks her what happened, but she can't remember.
Morgan gets a crush on Collin, Serena's brother. Serena can't stand Morgan and doesn't think that Collin and her would be good together. Then Çollin tells her one day that Morgan thinks Serena needs a boyfriend. Serena is very angry and can't help but wonder if Collin agrees with Morgan. To add to all of the mess, Jimena and Collin start fighting. Serena isn't sure she can handle the preasure. To top it off Serena's crushing on a new kid at school.
Then Jimena tells Serena a vision she had. Serena gets very upset because she doesn't want to destroy the daughters of the moon. But Jimena's vision have always come true. A few days later Stanton come's and tells her that she needs to be careful about the new kid at school. He also tells Serena that he erased her memories on the beach. Serena is very shocked by this. Then Stanton tells her that Stanton and her were in a relationship. A few nights later Serena reads Collins mind about Jimena. Then once the secret of the new kid is revealed the key gets thrown into the cold fire. This book tests the faith between all of the girls, and there values.

Pendragon Book Six: The Rivers of Zadaa (Pendragon)
Published in MP3 CD by Brilliance Audio on MP3-CD Lib Ed (2005-07-01)
List price: $39.25
New price: $39.25
Used price: $62.97
Used price: $62.97
Average review score: 

The Rivers of Zadaa
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-29
Review Date: 2008-02-29
The Rivers of Zadaa is the sixth installment to the Pendragon series. I loved this book it had adventure and it has mystery in it. This book was the best of the Pendragon it gave me everything that I wanted in a book. This book starts with a tragic death then ends very surprisingly. Saint Dane has gone to the territory of Zadda were he is influencing two warring tribes now Bobby must stop him with the help of the traveler Loor.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes an adventure book that is also a fantasy. This book now had to be the best because you had no idea what was going to happen next. I absolutely loved this book I just never wanted to put it down. I definitely would put this book in my top 5 of favorite books.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes an adventure book that is also a fantasy. This book now had to be the best because you had no idea what was going to happen next. I absolutely loved this book I just never wanted to put it down. I definitely would put this book in my top 5 of favorite books.
Great Continuation
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-18
Review Date: 2007-06-18
DJ, you keep me waiting too long. I want you pumping these books out faster.I can't get enough!!!
What can I say
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-07
Review Date: 2007-05-07
Hands down the best series I have laid my eyes on.
A review for a great book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-06
Review Date: 2007-05-06
This book is packed with twists in the plot, and suspense that make you feel as if you are on a roller coaster. With two different stories filled with adventure and sprinkled with love, you feel like you're with the characters. Whenever you think you have the answer to what's going on, you want to shout it out to the characters, but each time you are soon to be proven wrong. Once you start reading this book, it will be torture just to put it down. Whenever you aren't guessing what's going to happen next, you are cheering for Bobby because you think he's going to win, or worrying because he's going to lose this battle. He is always changing position in this battle, so you feel like you're on a roller coaster, just like what I said before.
After five battles against the shape-shifting demon named Saint Dane, Bobby Pendragon is swept into another battle yet again. Saint Dane's main goal is to destroy Halla, all places, planets, and times, for a still unknown reason. Using flumes, the connection between places in time in the universe called Territories (there are ten), Bobby chases Saint Dane into the next territory, Zadaa. As a Traveler, the only people who can use the flumes, Bobby must stop the evil Traveler, Saint Dane, from reaching his evil goal. On the dessert planet of Zadaa, people are facing famine, and two tribes who were once at peace are getting close to a quick and deadly war. The aggressive tribe, the Batu, suspect that the clever tribe, the Rokador, are holding all the water from the underground rivers. Bobby, with help from Loor and Alder, the Travelers from Zadaa and Denduron, must thwart Saint Dane's plans to push Zadaa into chaos, or else Halla will be one step closer to destruction.
Meanwhile, on Bobby's home Territory of Second Earth, Bobby's friends are facing the strangest problems. Mark Dimond, pure geek, has joined a club called Sci-Clops. Things are going great for him until his enemy, Andy Mitchell, joins the club. After joining the club, Mitchell has been nicer to Mark, and Mark is getting suspicious. To add to Mark's problems, he is also worrying about how Bobby is doing on Zadaa, and how Bobby's other friend, Courtney Chetwynde is doing. Courtney has gone to a boarding school, and has gotten a new boyfriend. Of course, her boyfriend and the new Andy Mitchell turn out to be someone else...
Notes:
-This is actually my book report.
-For people starting the Pendragon series, you should start at the first book.
-It has a plot very similar to the first Pendragon book, The Merchant of Death.
I hope you enjoy this book, it's a real Tum-Tigger!
Htmlgoddess@gmail.com
a 7th grader
After five battles against the shape-shifting demon named Saint Dane, Bobby Pendragon is swept into another battle yet again. Saint Dane's main goal is to destroy Halla, all places, planets, and times, for a still unknown reason. Using flumes, the connection between places in time in the universe called Territories (there are ten), Bobby chases Saint Dane into the next territory, Zadaa. As a Traveler, the only people who can use the flumes, Bobby must stop the evil Traveler, Saint Dane, from reaching his evil goal. On the dessert planet of Zadaa, people are facing famine, and two tribes who were once at peace are getting close to a quick and deadly war. The aggressive tribe, the Batu, suspect that the clever tribe, the Rokador, are holding all the water from the underground rivers. Bobby, with help from Loor and Alder, the Travelers from Zadaa and Denduron, must thwart Saint Dane's plans to push Zadaa into chaos, or else Halla will be one step closer to destruction.
Meanwhile, on Bobby's home Territory of Second Earth, Bobby's friends are facing the strangest problems. Mark Dimond, pure geek, has joined a club called Sci-Clops. Things are going great for him until his enemy, Andy Mitchell, joins the club. After joining the club, Mitchell has been nicer to Mark, and Mark is getting suspicious. To add to Mark's problems, he is also worrying about how Bobby is doing on Zadaa, and how Bobby's other friend, Courtney Chetwynde is doing. Courtney has gone to a boarding school, and has gotten a new boyfriend. Of course, her boyfriend and the new Andy Mitchell turn out to be someone else...
Notes:
-This is actually my book report.
-For people starting the Pendragon series, you should start at the first book.
-It has a plot very similar to the first Pendragon book, The Merchant of Death.
I hope you enjoy this book, it's a real Tum-Tigger!
Htmlgoddess@gmail.com
a 7th grader
The Rivers of Zadaa
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-13
Review Date: 2007-04-13
The Rivers of Zadaa by D. J. MacHale is an action filled adventure with a bit of mystery. I recommend this book too kids who like reading long books.
The story begins with Bobby Pendragon wearing clothing every where too hide his skin walking next too Loor in an arena. Were Loor lives water is more valuable than gold. In the Zadaa he will meet his enemy Saint Daine and try too stop his evil plan. Saint Daine is a evil demon.
Bobby Pendragon is a 13-year old boy who is from 2nd Earth. Bobby is on Zadaa trying too stop a war from happening. Bobby Pendragon mis determined on his mission, and is helped by Loor and other friends along the way. He has brown hair and brown eyes. Bobby must wear a lot of clothing because the Razack are really white because they live underground, and the Batu are darker because they live at the surface. Bobby is smart, nice, and trustful, he an also heal fast from injury's.
I recommend this book too kids who like reading. Will Bobby exceed his mission? Read This book too find out!
The story begins with Bobby Pendragon wearing clothing every where too hide his skin walking next too Loor in an arena. Were Loor lives water is more valuable than gold. In the Zadaa he will meet his enemy Saint Daine and try too stop his evil plan. Saint Daine is a evil demon.
Bobby Pendragon is a 13-year old boy who is from 2nd Earth. Bobby is on Zadaa trying too stop a war from happening. Bobby Pendragon mis determined on his mission, and is helped by Loor and other friends along the way. He has brown hair and brown eyes. Bobby must wear a lot of clothing because the Razack are really white because they live underground, and the Batu are darker because they live at the surface. Bobby is smart, nice, and trustful, he an also heal fast from injury's.
I recommend this book too kids who like reading. Will Bobby exceed his mission? Read This book too find out!
The Perilous Gard
Published in Hardcover by Houghton Mifflin (Juv) (1974-04)
List price: $16.95
Used price: $0.77
Collectible price: $24.00
Collectible price: $24.00
Average review score: 

Unimpressed
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-09
Review Date: 2008-05-09
I didn't find this book all that special. The style seemed stilted and awkward. Characters seemed emotionally flat and I didn't buy the romance in the story. Not a bad read, but half way through I was ready for the book to end.
My intro to the Tam Lin legend
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-25
Review Date: 2007-12-25
One of the things I like about this book is that it manages to retain an archaic feeling without sounding fake (you know, the type of dialogue that sounds like a bunch of college students roleplaying). Pope's choice of using modern language for the dialogue doesn't spoil the setting at all, whereas trying to force readers to jump back and forth between Elizabethan dialogue and modern narration could be annoying, e.g. Patricia Wrede's version of "Snow White and Rose Red".
Overall, Pope's characters are really well fleshed out, and she's also a master at describing atmosphere. The supernatural terror that Kate is subjected to in the underground halls kept me up at night for a while after both times I read this.
I didn't know the plot of "The Perilous Gard" was related to an actual legend till I stumbled across the name "Tam Lin" elsewhere on the Internet. Now I'm fascinated...
Overall, Pope's characters are really well fleshed out, and she's also a master at describing atmosphere. The supernatural terror that Kate is subjected to in the underground halls kept me up at night for a while after both times I read this.
I didn't know the plot of "The Perilous Gard" was related to an actual legend till I stumbled across the name "Tam Lin" elsewhere on the Internet. Now I'm fascinated...
I'll never forget this book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-06
Review Date: 2007-11-06
This book is beautiful. The proud elves! The historical drama! Probably the best theory for where elves/fairies came from, oh, and the answer will suprise you!
This books haunts you in that though there are mystical, magical elements in this story when you done reading you have to admit that it really COULD have happened. This book made me cry, I love it when books have the power to make you feel that much emotion. Do yourself a favour and read the book!
This books haunts you in that though there are mystical, magical elements in this story when you done reading you have to admit that it really COULD have happened. This book made me cry, I love it when books have the power to make you feel that much emotion. Do yourself a favour and read the book!
Pne of the best children's books ever
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-13
Review Date: 2007-09-13
The Perilous Gard
The Sherwood Ring
The Perilous Gard is a book I still reread as an adult. The Sherwood Ring is good also. I just wish that Ms. Pope had written MORE.
The Perilous Gard is a wonderful rainy afternoon book. The characters seem real and the Elizabethan England that is described seems real and charming but none too easy to live in.
The best part of the story is the characterizations of the fairies themselves. Not the fluttery, glittery creatures beloved of Walt Disney, but a real, proud alien race at one with nature. The queen particularly is both admirable and cruel, pitiless and pitiable.
The Sherwood Ring
The Perilous Gard is a book I still reread as an adult. The Sherwood Ring is good also. I just wish that Ms. Pope had written MORE.
The Perilous Gard is a wonderful rainy afternoon book. The characters seem real and the Elizabethan England that is described seems real and charming but none too easy to live in.
The best part of the story is the characterizations of the fairies themselves. Not the fluttery, glittery creatures beloved of Walt Disney, but a real, proud alien race at one with nature. The queen particularly is both admirable and cruel, pitiless and pitiable.
Great Read
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-31
Review Date: 2007-07-31
I enjoyed this book immensely once I got into it. The first chapter didn't impress me, but after that the book held my attention. The main character, Kate, was a great heroine that I enjoyed reading about and she had her own flaws, which I thought was great. Because most books in this sort of genre have the perfect, beautiful, strong, intelligent, courageous heroine, which I always found somewhat unbelievable. This book is adventursome, fantastical, and has some romance thrown in too. Its my kind of book! I plan on looking for more books by this author.
Ramona the Pest (Ramona Series)
Published in Audio Cassette by Listening Library (2000-10)
List price: $4.99
Average review score: 

It's hard to be five...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-23
Review Date: 2008-01-23
Five-year-old Ramona Quimby is tired of being called a pest. It's not her fault she doesn't know as much as her big sister Beezus, or that she's always so eager to get things done, is it?
This year, Ramona is finally starting kindergarten. After what felt like years of waiting, she's excited at the idea of learning to read and write like Beezus.
But kindergarten is full of its own problems. As much as Ramona loves her teacher, she isn't always sure that Miss Binney loves her back -- or what she's done to make her unhappy. Ramona also quibbles with Howie, a neighborhood boy who alternates between being her friend and being so exasperating he makes her furious; longs to pull the curls of her classmate Susan, and to kiss shy little Davy.
As always, Ramona is a believable character, likeable and just like any other child readers might hope to meet. After becoming introduced to Ramona, young readers will clamor for the other books, eager to find out what happens to the irrepressible girl next.
This year, Ramona is finally starting kindergarten. After what felt like years of waiting, she's excited at the idea of learning to read and write like Beezus.
But kindergarten is full of its own problems. As much as Ramona loves her teacher, she isn't always sure that Miss Binney loves her back -- or what she's done to make her unhappy. Ramona also quibbles with Howie, a neighborhood boy who alternates between being her friend and being so exasperating he makes her furious; longs to pull the curls of her classmate Susan, and to kiss shy little Davy.
As always, Ramona is a believable character, likeable and just like any other child readers might hope to meet. After becoming introduced to Ramona, young readers will clamor for the other books, eager to find out what happens to the irrepressible girl next.
It's time to meet Ramona!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-06
Review Date: 2008-01-06
Beverly Clearly is one of those rare children's authors who knows how to see the world through the eyes of her characters. There's a reason for all those rave reviews from readers over the years.
Ramona the Pest provides an opportunity for the child in your life to see how Romana's world is much like his own, and learn from Ramona as she makes mistakes.
Ramona the Pest is certain to be a favorite of yours, as well.
Ramona the Pest provides an opportunity for the child in your life to see how Romana's world is much like his own, and learn from Ramona as she makes mistakes.
Ramona the Pest is certain to be a favorite of yours, as well.
Boy Oh Boy for Madison
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-02-12
Review Date: 2007-02-12
I llike this book called Madison Finn, Boy Oh Boy because Madison gets put in charge of the Far Hills Junior High class election site.Creating is easy until somthing is very very very very wrong. And just when Madison thinks she had all the pollitics.Dad shows up with his new running mate.
Ramona is Ageless
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-17
Review Date: 2007-01-17
Ramona is five and couldn't be more excited about Kindergarten. However, Ramona finds herself in trouble more than once, what with the problems with Susan's curls and the substitute. Nevertheless, Ramona is a spunky little girl who is hard to believe isn't real.
I've been reading Ramona since I was little and I continue to read them now. Ramona and her family are ageless and apply to kids now, no matter how old the books become. The great thing about the Ramona books is that they are very enjoyable for parents as well, so they make good books to read to the kids.
I've been reading Ramona since I was little and I continue to read them now. Ramona and her family are ageless and apply to kids now, no matter how old the books become. The great thing about the Ramona books is that they are very enjoyable for parents as well, so they make good books to read to the kids.
Dawnzer and Vocabulary Development
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-12-17
Review Date: 2006-12-17
This delightful book helped to inspire a lesson plan I have on my site which uses music to improve vocabulary. I love the way Beverly Cleary has of handling children's mistakes with sensitivity. We laugh at Ramona but we also understand and are "pulling" for her. I admire all of Cleary's books but if I had to pick a favorate, this would be it.
Books-Under-Review-->Arts-->Literature-->Authors-->Young Adult-->11
Related Subjects: Stine, R.L. Pike, Christopher Lowry, Lois Paulsen, Gary Cormier, Robert Dessen, Sarah Alexander, Lloyd Hinton, S.E. Nicholson, William
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Related Subjects: Stine, R.L. Pike, Christopher Lowry, Lois Paulsen, Gary Cormier, Robert Dessen, Sarah Alexander, Lloyd Hinton, S.E. Nicholson, William
More Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250