Young Adult Books

I bought this book for one story but it turned out all of the stories were great.

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings always makes me cry. The other reviews of this book here describe it so eloquently and throughly that I don't feel the need to add to that aspect. The book has a strong emotional pull that made me cry and made long to go to Cross Creek and see it for myself. Rawlings is one of my all-time favorite writers, ever since my seventh-grade teacher read the newly published book The Yearling to her class, a chapter or two each day after lunch.

Wonderful view of an isolated place in FL (near Gainesville) circa 1930 written by a brave, independent woman.

Cross Creek is a series of entertaining if perhaps embellished anecdotes relating to Florida in the years preceding World War II told from the perspective of a educated emigré from the North. Some of the language, which was typical of the times, would no longer be considered politically correct and might be offensive to some. The book, however is totally delightful and gives some insight into life in rural Florida at the time. An excellent companion read is Tom Glisson's The Creek, which gives a native's view of the same time and area. Both books are a must read if you live or are interested in North Central FL.

Rawlings explores the lives and interations of the odd assortment of people living in Cross Creek, Florida in the early 1900s. It is often assigned reading for teens, but I doubt that most of them can appreciate it. Her accounts of neighbors feuding and subsistance living gives us many lessons in human behavior.
The lyrical descriptions of wildlife and the orange groves and wild landscape are very appealing. Your mouth waters as you read her essays on downhome foods like hush puppies. She turned those into a cookbook which I'll have to try out.
Modern readers squirm uncomfortably at her use of the N----- word and her characterization of blacks as irresponsible, drunken, immoral, etc. It is probably a faithful representation of common thinking at the time it was written, so recognize it as a snapshot of the times. Then move past that to luxuriate in the beautiful passages in the book. (I deducted 1 star for this)
The reader becomes absorbed in Rawlings' love of the land and the creation of a home. It gives much the same feelings as A Year in Provence or Under a Tuscan Sun.

Review written by product buyer's 13 year old daughter

This is a book that I and anyone who loves action, adventure, drama, and suspence will love! The very first page drops you right in the middle of the action, and it just gets better and better from there! If there were an award for 'best book for starting an action series', this would win by a landslide! You'll meet new charators to like, new charactors to hate, and new kinds of danger you wouldn't believe would fit into one book! This book is definetly one of my favorites! Buy it and enjoy!

P.S. A book that follows up from the end of this book is #4 The Lazarus Plot (another great book!)

In Franklin Dixon's Hardy Boy's "Dead on Target", Frank "The good looking blonde haired blue-eyed older brother", and Joe "The black haired brown eyed younger brother", and their close freinds are in the mall in their hometown of Bayport on the East coast around lunch. Iola (one of the friends) gets upset and goes back to the car in the parking lot and gets in. Frank and Joe are on their way out to the car when it blows up with Iola in it! This creates a huge mystery which Faranklin Dixon's books are known for. This becomes a huge mystery leading to an overseas Terrorist group who is trying to scare Fenton Hardy (Frank and Joe's dad and one of the worlds greatest detectives) off their case. The bomb was meant for his kids but killed Iola. The two boys, who are great detectives themselves, vow to solve the case.
The case leads them to Europe fighting an international terroist group who are trained experts. Dodging death and putting themselves in danger for others they quickly close in on the terrorists with help from the FBI and other agencies. But the real problem is in Baypot.
My feelings about the book are that it is great! The author uses a fast pace to keep the reader intrested in the book. His books are identical to the Nacy Drew mystery books in that the main characters are teenagers.

I am a die hard Hardy Boys fan and this is definatly one of the better of the group. I recommend any of the books for lite reading and a break from reality. A key note of advise though, I read a lot of the reviews complaining that these are unrealistic. Yes they are but in my opinion there is always enough reality in the world from the moment you wake up a little break every now and then is nice.

Back to this book though it is extremly exciting and is the start of a whole new begining in the Hardy Boys books. This mystery throws out all the cute nice points of the hardcovers. Another word of caution the hard covers are a lot tamer than these do to the era they were written in.

What a hotshot book.Although at the beginning I felt sad as I read on I was hooked.The Bullet plants a bomb in the Hardy car and Iola is killed.Joe and Frank track him down I do not want to tell you more because it would be iresponsible.

"Dead on Target" was the beginning of a new era for the Hardy Boys. This is the first volume of the new (in 1991) series "The Hardy Boys Casefiles", and it is a more adult and action packed series than the original series. This is never more evident than the first two pages of the book. Whereas the original series (started in 1927 and it is still running today) would have various plots by criminals, nobody ever seemed to get killed or nothing too serious would ever happen, but "Dead on Target" opens with the killing of Joe Hardy's girlfriend (and sister of good friend Chet) Iola Morton. For a series that has been known for its lack of actual murders of any on screen character, this was a shocking and explosive (no pun intended as it was by a bomb that killed Iola) moment. It marked the different direction that the Casefiles would take the reader, as well as the Hardys, on.

A car bomb was the cause of death for Iola Morton. Frank and Joe, as well as Iola and Frank's girlfriend Callie Shaw, were at the mall preparing for a political rally. Iola ends up returning to the Hardys' car to pick up more campaign materials when it explodes, killing her. Joe blames himself because his flirting with another girl made Iola mad and this is what led her to be at the car by herself. At the funeral, "Dead on Target" takes another twist by introducing the character of The Grey Man. The Grey Man is a member of a secret government organization called "The Network". "The Network" believes that an international group of terrorists, "The Assassins", were responsible for Iola's death and are planning something big for the political rally the following week.

The rest of the novel finds Frank and Joe traveling to London, fighting several members of the Assassins, being in the midst of gun battles and defusing a bomb. "Dead on Target" is fast paced with a tighter story than what is found through most of the original series. For fans of the Hardy Boys, "Dead on Target" is likely to be a favorite. It is not for the purists of the series, though. This book takes the brothers down a different timeline than we find in the main series. Since the main series continued to be published at the same time as the Casefiles, these books (Casefiles) are either set at a later date than the continuing series or is part of some alternative timeline since Iola is still alive in the main series.

"Dead on Target" has more violence than the "classic" Hardy Boys, but this is a very interesting story, even if it is a bit far fetched. For the first time, terrorism and murder have been introduced to Bayport and the Casefiles bring the reader a new style of story with the Hardys. As an introduction to the Casefiles as well as a new episode in the lives of the Hardys, this is a good place to start. Fifteen years after first reading this book it remains a fun read.

-Joe Sherry

First let me say that this is one of the few (older) trek novels that read like an episode...unfortunately it would have been third season.

It isn't so much that it is bad, it isn't. It's the characterization that was the more annoying. At one point Kirk says "Oh jeez, I need to contact the Enterprise." Oh jeez? How many times did Kirk say "oh jeez"?

I also had a bit of a problem with the way McCoy is portrayed in command. I won't go into it and potentially ruin it, but suffice it to say I didn't realize his talents (at least according to the novel).

So, if you want an ok Trek novel with really annoying characterization and dialogue this one is fine. Again, not bad but I couldn't quite get past what I would classify as the "Turnabout Intruder" form of Kirk, and some of the other main characters too.

The Enterprise has been assigned to survey a most interesting planet, one that has three sentient species, all of which are unusual by even Federation standards. While in the midst of gathering data McCoy has made a comment about Kirk having an 'easy job' and the Captain has seized the opportunity this remark has presented. By placing McCoy in temporary command Kirk will not only remind the doctor how demanding command can be and it will give Kirk enough free time to go down to the planet himself. At least that was the plan, a plan that of course quickly fell apart. Before Kirk is able to once again take over control of the Enterprise he will take a most surprising journey that will cause him to question his understanding of space and time. McCoy will find himself facing not the quiet routine few hours on the bridge that Kirk had envisioned, but missing crew members, irate Klingons, Orion pirates and Star Fleet command breathing down his neck.

As is typical with Duane's novels this one is character, rather than plot, driven. Here the focus is on McCoy and how he copes when he is the one in the 'hot seat'. Also as is expected from this author, DOCTOR'S ORDERS is quite well writen, the characters are handled well, in a believable manner. The new species are well thought out and intriguing, ones that the reader might hope to meet again in another Star Trek novel.

The only problem with this novel is the concept that there is no way for the Doctor to be removed from command in this situation. In spite of this, DOCTOR'S ORDERS is an excellent read, one that would be enjoyed by even a casual fan.

As I read more and more of the old Star Trek books, I have come to realize that anything written by Diane Duane is going to be a winner. This book is no exception. She is able to present the family aspect of the Enterprise crew much better than most. In this story, the command structure is much more apparent than in other stories, due largely in part by the plot device of leaving McCoy in command of the Enterprise. The Doctor handles it well and with good humor. As with Duane's other Star Trek books, linguistics plays a significant role in the story line. I really should read some of her non-commissioned work.

Thanks so much for this, Ms. Duane! A humourous, thought-provoking, complex novel that, above all, presents the Star Trek characters with their dignity intact, doing what the Enterprise crew is supposed to do: helping out folks in need and, at the same time, learning lessons of their own.

And what else does this novel offer, you may ask? Surly Klingons, cute little protoplasmic beings, amoral pirates, and walking trees. And don't forget the time-travel. Oh, yes, and the snortweed!

Dr. McCoy was always my favourite Star Trek character, and this novel really gives him a chance to shine. We're inside his head a lot of the time during this novel, and one of the things I really enjoyed was watching McCoy, in his role as unwilling captain, realize why Kirk has developed some of the quirks which the good doctor hitherto criticized. It was ... er ... fascinating (and refreshing!) to see how well McCoy and Spock functioned together as captain and first officer. I also very much enjoyed McCoy's interactions with the Klingon captain. Psychology, psychology. And a little medical knowledge to pin down a case of Klingon Arthasomiasis Syndrome surely gave the good doctor even more of a much-needed edge.

In some of the Star Trek series novels I've read, the characters seem very stereotyped and predictable. It's as if the author has a checklist for each crewmember's gestures, appearance, thought-patterns and dialogue. Doctor's Orders presented well-developed characters who grew and changed as the novel progressed. I didn't want it to end!

This is an older Star Trek novel (I'm writing this in Jan 2005, about 15 years after it came out). But it's still a good one. It has a scenario that seems somewhat implausible, but is one of those things Trek fans kind of always wanted to see. In short, McCoy is forced to be captain of the Enterprise after Kirk goes "Oh yeah, well, if you think you can do it, go do it", but then disappears, forcing McCoy to be the Captain. Why Spock couldn't take over is mostly ignored, but still.. :)

Had some great McCoy lines, some intersting interaction with the Klingons, basically a good fun read. As one of the other reviews here said, it's not the most grandiose story - it's not a "Save the universe" type of thing, but is a good situational fun read.

I'm also biased somewhat, as I appear in the book. Some years ago I talked to Diane Duane online, and struck up a friendship. She had asked me about being in one of her books - this was it. I'm in there as one of Dr. McCoy's medial assistants. "Lt. Joe Siegler". I later get eaten by a tree. When Diane Duane asked me what I wanted my character to do, I said "die".

"Hurry home, love, through the dream-dark glade/ where moontime beasts lurk in darkling shade/never linger, love, where the shadows grow/the Blackbringer hunts where the light fears to go."

Once upon a time, the Djinn wove the Tapestry of the world, creating forests and animals, mountains and fairies. Thousands of years ago a Devil War was waged when the horrific devils were created by snags in the Tapestry. The brave and beautiful fairy Bellatrix was the great heroine of this war and in the end she and her fellow warriors were able to trap all the devils in unopenable bottles. But then Bellatrix disappeared and the years passed, and something that not even the Djinn had forseen arose: mannies (humans). And mannies, with their insatiable curiosity began opening the bottles, expecting genies but instead releasing devils. Magpie Windwitch is the only fairy who seems to be hunting these devils, forcing them back into bottles. Most of the other fairies have forgotten the old ways, content to live in the safety of their villages. But then a bottle is opened that should never have been unsealed, one containing the awful shadow creature of legend known as the Blackbringer. The Blackbringer is more powerful than even the mighty Djinn and indiscriminately devours everything in its path, pulling devils and fairies alike into the darkness. Magpie, along with her comical crow companions, sets off to find the Djinn King, the only one powerful enough to stop the Blackbringer--but no one has seen him for centuries.

I began this book not expecting much: the tall, edgy faerie of Holly Black's Tithe: A Modern Faerie Tale are one thing, but Tinkerbell-sized creatures are another. Tiny little winged fairies seemed as tough and adventurous as dragonflies to me. Consider me a convert. Little Magpie Windwitch may be tiny, but she sure has spunk. Talon Rathersting, a fairy who joins Magpie on her quest after the Blackbringer kills his father and brothers, is another non-stereotypical fairy. He is a prince of a warrior clan who has been hindered all his life with stubby wings. However, he does have a talent for knitting, and can create "skins" which he can wear to transform himself into a bird and finally have the chance to fly. Blackbringer is sprinkled with other such well-developed characters and Magpie's crows in particular provide a good dose of humor.

One of the most striking things about this book is Taylor's beautiful writing. She creates passages that are best described as lyrical and gives Magpie a unique voice by having her use a lot of fairy slang, like the word "skiving." It is even more impressive that this is her first book--it doesn't have any of the rough edges one would expect from a first time author.

Don't let the fear that a book about fairies will be too cutesy hold you back. This is a spectacular debut novel and absolutely engrossing. Highly recommended.

I have read many books about fairies this year but this was the best of the lot. Okay, while I was reading the others I thought the same thing, but this book was a stand out!

Magpie is a fairy who is a devil catcher. Humans have been letting them out to plague the world. She is the only one who has the ability to make the glyphs to rid the world of these foul beings. She finds that a new devil, one who is different and scarier than the rest, has been let out, as well.

She tracks him down in Dreamdark, the home of the fairies. His name is Blackbringer. He is going to destroy the whole world by unraveling the tapestry and swallowing the world into darkness and shadow. Through many adventures, Mags and her crows and a few other fairies wake up a Djinn, fight many frightful devils, and find out the true history of Dreamdark and the birth of Magpie.

I was fascinated with the mythology that has been invented for this book. The world was dreamed by the powerful Djinns and there used to be many creatures in this world that have been hunted out of existence by humans. BLACKBRINGER was a delightful read full of roller-coaster adventures and surprises. I sure hope Laini Taylor writes more about Magpie, the crows, Poppy, Talon, and the Magruwen.

Reviewed by: Marta Morrison

December 26th 2007, just finished the book and I have to say it's probably the best book I've read all year! And since it was a library book, I think I'll go pick up a copy for myself! Adults (like me) and kids alike will enjoy this one.

I have not read a lot of fantasy as an adult, but I think I will pick it up more often, after reading this book! I forgot how deeper ideas and commentary on our "real" world can be made through the eyes and story of a character like Magpie. I was totally pulled into this YA novel from the get go. The story moves fast, always keeping your interest, and all along Miss Taylor drops just enough hints of what is to come to keep you guessing. Also, I was really taken by surprise and blown away by the climax! I felt like I was watching an action movie in my mind!

This book would be perfectly wonderful for any young reader, and it also holds an adult reader's attention with no problem. It is well written with amazingly imaginative, and even poetic language. I look forward to my children reading it! Can't wait for the next one to come out. :)

How many young adult fantasies have you read with a fairy as the protagonist? Stop and think a moment. Having some trouble, aren't you?

That's what makes Faeries of Dreamdark different from any other fairy story. The main character is a fairy. She's a young (in human years, that is), spirited lassie named Magpie Windwitch. The ensnaring and destruction of devils is her trade . . . devils that clumsy humans are (unknowingly) setting free from captivity. When a dark, mysterious creature - that might not even be a devil - enters Dreamdark, Magpie and her crow friends really have cause for worry. And fear.

For some reason, this book strongly reminded me of the Redwall series. It had the same feel to it as those stories. It took me a little while to get into the book, but once I did I became totally immersed. From the halfway point to the end in particular, I had a hard time setting the book down . . . it was so exciting and good! Faeries of Dreamdark is humorous and thoughtful, and it has a unique kind of magical style to it. From its funny parts to its sad parts, it's obvious that Laini Taylor is quite the powerful storyteller. Despite the slowish beginning, I would highly recommend this book. I had loads of fun with it. Bring on the sequel!

I'll start with the good. The artwork is excellent. There is a rich and addicting story line. The characters have enduring personalities. I really love this series. I typically always start reading Manga and then watch the anime if it goes that far. However, with Inuyasha it was the opposite for me. One of the reasons I was originally hesitant to read the manga was that it goes from front to back instead of back to front. This means the manga has bad editing issues. Basically to do this the editors have to flip every single image and reverse the image order. At first it wasn't too bad, but there is always a character like Sesshomaru... Every time he is in the manga it's like nails on a chalkboard. Because of the flipping everything about him just screams 'Those idiot American Editors Abused me!' His fluffy and armor are on the wrong side. His crescent moon is backwards. And Because of the flipping he always looks like his right arm was cut off and not the left. Because of this technical glitch the manga appears sloppy. However, the poor choice of flipping the contents doesn't take away from the amazing story. It is still a really good read. One just has to get over all the glitches.

I won't spill anything but this second book is very actiony for a second book. Be sure to read all the booms and other thinks like that (it's kinda fun) (^-^). I hope you buy it you won't be sorry

When I first saw InuYasha, it was about a year ago on TV, and I thought it was the weirdest show(of course, I had no idea it was Inuyasha, I was flipping channels. I discovered that recently when they re-aired the episode.). Some guy with long white hair and fangs? Demons weren't my thing. Then, about three weeks ago, after recently getting hooked onto Japanese manga, I was browsing the designated aisle at Borders, and the bright yellow spine caught my eye. I had remembered my little brother going on about it, and so curiosity got the better of me, and I started reading it in the store. I was immediately hooked. It's a thrilling tale, really, with humor, a bit of bad language, and innocent romance. And that's why, after three days of no trips to Borders, I couldn't take it. I resorted to Amazon. It came in pretty quick too, I was surprised. Afterward I got myself hooked on the show, but I'm not here to review that, am I? Anyways, a long review short, it's a great story by a great author, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

The first half of this volume concerns the continuing battle with Yura of the Hair, a witch who is able to puppeteer corpses and use her hair to cut off body parts. Yes, she's always having a bad hair day! Sorry about that. In what I believe will be an ongoing trend, Inuyasha finds that he can't defeat Yura alone because only Kagome can see Yura's strands of hair. In the second story arc in this volume, a talking flea named Myoga, with the inappropriate title "Divine Grace" shows up to tell Inuyasha that someone is trying to rob his father's grave! That would-be graverobber is Sessho-Maru, Inuyasha's half-brother and full-blooded demon, which makes him more powerful than our anti-hero. Let's just say there's no love lost between the two, because there isn't any love at all! Looks like Inuyasha might have to call on Kagome again as the two square off.

Rumiko Takahashi is a true manga genius. Her artwork is beautiful. You find yourself actually seeing an anime in your head when you read her manga, because they are so exquisitely detailed, and the characters spring to life. The action is never confusing, and she never shrinks from realistic blood. There is also a sort of warm charm in the relationship between Inuyasha and Kagome that seems more real than even most shojo. Classic series.

In Inuyasha volume 2, the story of Inuyasha and Kagome continues. If you haven't read volume 1 and haven't seen the anime, go read it! otherwise you won't understand the following review:

Our two main heroes Inuyasha and Kagome return to the Feudal Era to confront Yura, an evil being that has the power to control hair. Such a power might not seem too dangerous, but she really is deadly! How will our heroes fair in their first fight as a team?

When the volume continues, we are introduced to several new characters, but very important ones since they'll be in the story for its remainder. First, an old flea named Myoga,a vassal to his late demon father, tells Inuyasha someone is trying to break into his father's tomb to steal his treasure. As Myoga explains what's happening, Inuyasha's late mortal mother is also discussed.

Just who is the theif? Why it's Sesshomaru, Inuyasha's older full demon brother! Sesshomaru is arguably the most popular character in the series and definitely my favorite. He has brought with him his toad like servant Jaken who wields the Staff of Two Heads(sometimes referred to as Staff of the Skulls) to locate the tomb. It soon becomes clear that Sesshomaru will have to confront Inuyasha to get to their father's treasure. This makes for a very interesting and emotional meeting leaving you with a sense of Sesshomaru's huge level of cruelty(for now).

Just what is the treasure though? It's the Tetsusaiga, a sword made from a fang of Inuyasha's father! The powerful sword can slay 100 demons in one sweep, but it rejects Sesshomaru. When Inuyasha is also unable to get it, Kagome surprises all! Inuyasha eventually gets the weapon, but now that Sesshomaru has transformed into his full demon form, can Inuyasha win?

Overall, this is a roughly 200 page terrific installment of Inuyasha. It reads from left to right which may bother some, though not me personally. I suggest this for all 13 and up as their is nudity and much violence including multiple decapitations. This volume is EXTREMELY action packed. The volume has much fighting, but does a nice job of blending emotion and character introductions. This volume definitely has a great story, introduces interesting new characters, and has much action. The story will only continue to get better!

I really loved the story. It's a very real story. Any one who's parents have ever fought will probably be able to relate.
This is the $25 hardcover edition. The book is dark green cloth. The title is on the front cover and side in gold. Cover seems well made. The print is usually okay, but maybe three or four times in the book one paragraph gets slaughtered. It's like the old ink-jet printers when the page jammed and you see part of the sentence which runs over another sentence and you can't read either, but the page isn't folded. It only ruins three or four paragraphs and you can read most of if. It's pretty annoying though at first. Other then that it seems like a sturdy book.
Still a worthwhile book to own if you like L.M. Montgomery.
Five stars for the story, three for the printing.

I enjoyed the Anne of Green Gables series of books. But, if you haven't read LMM's other books, you are missing out. I especially like "Jane of Lantern Hill". And my favorite "The Blue Castle" which is perfect romance.

Read these 2 books and her others. You may have to dig a bit but it'll be worth the trouble.

This was L.M. Montgomery's very last book that she's ever written during her lifetime. I own all of Montgomery's books, and after reading them over and over again, I have to say that this book is the best of her writings (right after the Anne of Green Gables series, of course...). I highly recommend this book, and encourage you to read it, for it shows what kind of inner strength and courage one can possess. Additionally, I recommend all of Montgomery's books to read, for being an avid fan, her books can teach us many lessons that we ourselves can apply during our lifetime.

As someone who spent many hours alone as a child, I found I could really relate to this book. I first discovered it when I was eleven or twelve. I loved reading about how Jane'e grandmother dominated her and made her feel out of place and about how people at school regarded Jane, because I was treated in the same way. If you've ever been pushed around as a child, or as an adult, read this book. I'm 21 and have been forced to grow up rather quickly in my life, still I enjoy this wonderful novel. I thought the character of the mother could have been more developed, otherwise it was absolutely a stunning work of art. Go SUPERIOR JANE! I can also relate to the way Montgomery portrays Jane's dad, and Jane's relationship with her dad. It's interesting how when Jane sees her father's picture in a magazine, even though she does not know it is him she cuts it out and keeps it, and it is heart-breaking how her grandmother takes it away from her. It is touching how Jane helps her poor orphaned friend and neighbor, and her grandmother's disdain for this makes one exceedingly angry. I also thought Jane's mother did not defend her daughter enough. Montgomery's own father made himself scarce to her when she was young, moving out West and remarrying. Montgomery seems to have never gotten over this, so when she describes characters like Emily's father, and Jane's father, she does a wonderful job of speaking of how intimate they are with their daughters. As a child of divorce I loved reading of how Jane played a role in getting her parents back together. .......

I read this in my early teens, after I had read most of the LMM books (the Anne series, the Emily series, etc.) I loved them all, especially the Emily series, but Jane of Lantern Hill is my favorite of them all. Jane Stuart is not, as many of LMM's other heroines are, obsessed with the idea of being a writer, storyteller, etc. There is no potential boyfriend/husband lurking in the story either. This book is more about the how understanding and love can transform an introverted, unhappy child into a confident, intelligent girl (the story ends when Jane is about age 14.) In that sense she's really one of the most understandable and likeable of LMM's heroines. She is also very modern. You can easily imagine her growing up to become a successful career woman, something you can't really say for many of LMM's other heroines, other than the at-home and time-flexible occupation of writing. If I had an early-teen daughter I would buy this book for her, especially if she has any self-confidence issues.

This is also one of the few books that deals with the subject of divorce or the separation of parents from the perspective of the child in an intelligent way. Given the time that it was written, divorce was a horrible taboo, and the resolution of the story is a bit unrealistic perhaps. That's the only quibble I have with the book.

Incidentally there was a television movie based on this book, by the same people who did the excellent Anne of Green Gables series (at least, the first two parts of that series were excellent). Don't bother with the Jane movie if you love the book..it only vaguely resembles it.

I first read this book when i was 15 now at 17 i still love this book its such a good read the main character is engaging and clever. You can see in this story what a post traumatic stress disorder may do to a person. It really makes you feel for this character

Ellen Emerson White is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. Her central character Meg is a strong-willed survivor who can also be an irritable, smart-aleck teen, not a typical heroine, to White's credit! The description of her time with her captors is harrowing. The story of her road to recovery is compelling. All the books in this series are worth reading.

I read a lot of books as a young adult but these books really stand out in my mind. They are incredibly gripping and well written. I have been trying to track this series down for awhile and could not be more happy to have located them. I read them in the early 90's but still loved the 80's culture (Tab and Joan Jett included) and recently purchased a pair it Tretorns because Meg owned them. All in all, great books for anyone to read!

In my opinion, this is one of White's best works. Although this is technically a YA book, the only real "teen" thing about it is Meg's age. She, her siblings, parents and various White House personas are thoroughly fleshed out, as well as the multitude of psychological issues that come along with being the child of a president. Here, when Meg's position in life leads to her abduction -- an incredibly grave situation -- White combines it with the thoughts running through Meg's mind, which are usually humorous and sarcastic. A thoroughly enjoyable read.

I think I first read this book back in middle school, in the late 80's; and immediately bought The Presidents Daughter so I could read that too. I'm now 29, and after a LONG search, have FINALLY recovered an original copy of White House Autumn to complete the trilogy. Wonderful writing, who could not love Meg and her family? And I find as I get older, each time I re-read I manage to pick up more detail, more emotion, more understanding. These books are wonderful for teenagers and adults alike. I recently read that a fourth book, titled "The Queen Lives On" will be released this fall; but have yet to get confirmation from any of the publishing companies. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE reprint this series and release the next book!!! I am dying to know how Meg's life has turned out, I would love to read about her college years (and find out if she ended up dating Josh again, LOL).

I AM AN AVID READER AND HORSE LOVER! I STUMBLED UPON THIS SERIES LOOKING FOR A BOOK FOR MY NIECE. THIS SERIES IS PERFECT FOR ALL AGE'S!! I AM 27 YEARS OLD AND THIS IS CAPTIVATING BOOK FOR ME TO READ AS WELL AS MY NIECE!!!! A PERFECT SERIES TO COMPLETE YOUR FAMILY LIBRARY!!!

This is one of many Phantom Stallion books. I would say it's my favorite one so far. The reason this is my favorite book is because I like action books, and horse books. This story has both.
This story is about a girl named Sam and her old horse the phantom(Blackie). Mr. Solcum was accusing the phantom of stealing his new filly. Sam knew that the phantom had nothing to do with it because a blue roan had come and stole her gram's horse, Sweetheart. Can Sam find Sweetheart and the other horses that are missing.
I would recommend this book to people who like horses and adventures. I wouldn't recommend this book to boy because it has a lot of girl things in it like crushes and some stuff like that.

Mustang Moon is probably one of my favorite PS books. It's got such a great and different story line then the others. Linc Slocum is out to get the Phantom-anyway he can. He buys this fancy appaloosa named Hotspot and then this stallion comes and starts stealing all these mares, Hotspot to name one and Sweetheart too. Sam knows it's not the Phantom but Linc tries to prove it-even posting an award for the capture of him! Sam has to prove that the Phantom is not stealing the mares!

I love all of the books except #3 because she lets a bratty girl train her horse. This book is awsome. Every book has an adventure especially number 1 "The Wild One". I love these books and I recommend them to anybody who loves horses. I recommend them to 11 and up becauseyounger children won't understand the amazingness of this book. Do not read this if you don't like horses. You don't have to love them but don't hate them or you won't understand the girl's deep love for the horses. I love horses and would have done everything she did to save them. I'm currently on number 7 and I just bought number 8. I have yet to read it.

Ok, I think I've read every horse book or series in the world. Not to brag or anything. I've read Heartland, Pony Pals, The Sadlle Club, Hoofbeats, Black Beauty, National Velvet etc. I think the Phantom Stallion is better than all of those, even the classics. After reading the first book, I jut had to get my hands on the second. I have to say that Mustang Moon has one of the best storylines in the whole entire series. And that's saying something. It's about how an escaped stallion named Hammer/Diablo invades the local ranches and tries to steal tamed mares. But the problem is, everybody thinks that the Phantom Stallion is responsible and Sam must prove to the town that the phantom is innocent. But that's not it. That's what I like about these books. The plot has other things going on. Sam also has to get used to Darton High School and make new friends. So you see, this book is really good and you have to get out there and read it right now.

It's sad that this awesome trilogy must come to an end, but I'm happy to say that I enjoyed every minute of it, from the moment those boys and that girl met up with each other and a horrible secret to the end of this installment when Never Land finally becomes familiar.

This story completes the bunch when Peter and the crew are kidnapped to a horrible kingdom where kids are slaved and the darkness of the universe has a horrible plan for the earth.

This is just as exciting as the previous two books, though I think the fantasy went a little annoyingly Star Trek at a point. Still, it was fun and witty and answered a lot of questions. Finally.

great story it is the continuing story of Peter and his friends against the evil shadows snatchers

This outstanding novel is both thrilling and humorous. The ever so sly Peter gets caught by his two enimies...hook and ombra. They've plotted to get rid of Peter and the rest of the star catchers for good, and they're determined to suceed. By the time you've finished the third and last book of the "Peter and the Starcatchers" series, the characters are real to you, alive, and it will be hard to say good bye. As the previous books of the series were, this story is equally amazing. Every chapter gives you a glimps of the other characters whereabouts, keeping you on your toes for the whole fantastic journey. Barry and Pearson end their series perfectly, but you don't want it to end. I had tears in my eyes reading the last page. This book is not a story that you will ever forget. I strongly feel that Peter and the Secerets of Rundoon should be read by every child 10-14 whom enjoys fantasy, adventure, and a little bit of romance. I hope that you'll enjoy this book as much as I did!

The first two in the series were entertaining reads--well-crafted and funny. Highly recommended for all ages! Wish I could read the third, though. But now that I have a Kindle, I guess I'll have to wait until it's available in that format. :(

By:Angie Murdock
Peter and The Secret of Rundoon
by:Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson

Peter and The Secret of Rundoon was so awesome, I loved it! Ridley Pearson and Dave Barry have created a new world of Peter Pan. They have twisted the whole story to an amazing adventure in never land. They have recreated Peter Pan, Captain Hook and the Lost Boys. They have written three action-packed books about Peter's adventures with "starstuff",the magical fallen stars that have given him his ability to fly and in effect made him immortal and a boy never to grow up.
If you haven't read the first two books in the trilogy I suggest you go and get them before you read this. When I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. It gave me an amazing movie in my head, and it is very well written. Peter and The Secret of Rundoon was a great read. It ended the best trilogy I have ever read. I would suggest this book to people who are looking for a bit of a challenge and a great adventure, it is a fantasy book. It is for readers in 2nd grade and up.

This book showed me that changing is not always easy. Nick is a great character and i love that he's trying to leave his past and start a new life and especially with the girl he loves, Kris. And i was so happy wen he finally told her that he loved her and all. It gave me the point of view of a guy in love. I rarely read books like this one. Plus the title made me want to read it too by the way. So its a cool book and everyone will like it just like i do. I recommend others to read it cuz its a great book and ull love nick and rute for him.

This book is great for ppl of all ages. It gives you a look at what's underneath the preppy private-school world. It takes you to a place of parties, drugs, casual, sex, and gangs. Nick is trying to change his old habbits after a bad accident with one of his friends. Yet still in this crazy world he manages to fall for his best friend. And when her brother becomes a gang target he finds himself in the middle of it all. Jake Coburn creates a world full of lies, drama, danger, and suspense. Although it was short, it is a book that will leave you in thought. It Makes you think about the lives of the privileged while also creating a dramatic Manhatten theme.

This book is about a boy named Nick who was part of a former prep-school gang. Nick and his friend have every advantage: expensive clothes and beautiful apartments. But underneath the private-school education lies the chiling gang world filled with drinking, heavy drugs, and graffiti. Nick tries to put his past beind him and pay more attention to his best friend Kris whom he is secretly in love with. But when Kris's younger brother becomes a gang target, Nick decides to help him even if he had to risk his own life.

I really like this book because it really happens in life and the author witnessed New York's teenagers form some of the most vicious gangs in Manhattan. This book has some very vivid fights and it shows what goes on in a gang and i thougth that was kind of interesting.

I would recommend this book to anyone that likes realistic-fiction, some action, likes to know what really goes on in gangs and how gangs are started. If you decide to read it. I hope you like it.

This book is basically telling you that if you start getting in trouble there is alwasy someone out there that pulls you back on you feet. I guess their sort of like your guardian angel and that was what Kris was portyrayed as.

As a former prep-school kid myself I was compelled to read Coburn's novel to see if it lived up to the truth about the secret (or not so secret) lives of New York city teens--and it did. This book kept me reading, and reading until I was disappointed to have reached the end. I would recommend it too both teens and not teens anymore.

Now I don't know the prep school scene so I can't tell you if this portrayal is acurate but the story seemed very real. It was harsh, it didn't apologize, but it was honest. I especially liked the kid brother and his ideas of conforming (I'm into that stuff, give me an intelligent idealist and I'll give your book 5 stars). Jake was another character I liked, the girl annoyed me but it was written by a guy, they all seem to write us off as distracting, sexual objects. Still a good book I recommend it.