Children's Books

I bought this book in a second hand book it is a briellient story and enjoyed reading it very much.

I first read these in high school and now atleast every 2 or 3 years I read them again. This time around (I'm 27 now) when I had the urge to read them I couldn't find them. I really wish they would make them into a movie trilogy! It's just a great read if you love nature and magic and remember being 16 and in highschool. I hope I read this until I am an old grandma and can get lost in time and pretend I am cassie!

I love this trilogy. I've loved it since I was about ten, and I still love it. It has pride of place on my bookshelf, and every now and again, I go back and re-read it.

In this first book, Cassie Blake, a highschool junior, finds herself suddenly uprooted when her mother moves them back to the tiny Massachusetts town of New Salem. They move in with her grandmother, and before long, a girl at Cassie's school has been murdered and Cassie has taken her place in the mysterious 'Club', a group of teenage witches who can trace their lineage all the way back to the days of the Salem witchcraft trials. Add to that is the menacing and beautiful Faye, Cassie's growing attraction to her best friend's boyfriend, and the search for the coven's lost Master Tools, and you have yourself a gripping and fast-paced start to a thrilling young adult trilogy.

That's not to say that the story doesn't have its problems, one of which is the somewhat underdeveloped secondary characters. Even this is excusable, however, given that there are eleven of them in the coven itself, not to mention various relations and townspeople. If nothing else, most of the coven members are clearly defined and given at least a few pages of close attention, such as the bike ride with Deborah in the second novel. Overall, a very satisfactory read, and well worth buying.

When I was about 13 or 14 I read and re-read these book over and over again. I even recorded them on tape so that I could listen to it while I was out and about.

I loved this trilogy.

Everyone can relate to Cassie in feeling different in a group and in this day and age magic is really popular, so this trilogy is the best for those that are coming of age in this time period when we are obsessed with darkness and magic, etc.

I plan on buying a new set because I wore my old set (given that was 13 years ago) out.

I first read this book when I was 12. For some reason I was not able to get ahold of the next two books in the series. Well, the ending left me so curious to know what happened that I felt compelled (at the age of 24) to track down the next two books in the series to find out what happened. I have to say that I enjoyed reading it the second time as much as I enjoyed the first. The characters are all well formed and interesting. These books are an excellent synthesis of religious accuracy and compelling imagination.

Kingdoms and the Elves #4 is a completely amazing book. I read it with my children, and they loved the book as much as I did if not more. I cannot say enough good things about this book. From start to finish it captivates you and keeps you reading. By the end, I was amazed at how much i enjoyed it.

Definately a must read. I would recommend it for all ages.

The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches IV
ISBN: 15754550658
Magical ---- Literally!

I became intrigued by the phenomena of Ruin Mist awhile back, and this review is a long time readers perspective. In many respects, I'm probably the last person who would enjoy this book. I'm a cynic by nature, and my reading habits lean more toward more mature series and more literary works. Or at least I should say it used to before I discovered this wonderful series and learned how fun fun reads like this one could be.

As someone who grew up reading C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, I had a soft spot for a good fantasy tale when I was younger, and tended to read fantasy from time to time. This series however, has made a new fantasy lover out of me. Why?

Robert Stanek has created a delightful world of magic and mystery, with a compelling cast of characters you'll come to love (or hate) almost instantly. He captures the imagination with spare prose that draws his readers in. The concept of a elves and such isn't exactly new, but the ideas of parallel worlds of magic, alternating histories, elves and men as enemies, magic as evil, and more were breathes of fresh air.

There are times early in the series when it is obvious that this is the author's first major work of fiction. His other previous work (as an international bestselling nonfiction author) however, helps him writes tight prose, a balanced amount of detail with a story well-paced and well-plotted.

Overall, this is a very impressive series. Each character in the story as unique and real as their intertwining storylines. Plus, I like to think that some of the wonder and enjoyment I felt reading the pages of the early books came from the sense that the author was also experiencing this world and its characters for the first time while writing them.

The world of Ruin Mist has multiple levels of reality called UnderEarth, MiddleEarth, and OverEarth. UnderEarth is a place without sun, moon or stars. It has bloodred skies and is a dark place where many strange creatures dwell. MiddleEarth is the place of the kingdoms and reaches. It is where men and elves live. OverEarth is place of the skies. It exists above the clouds of the kingdoms and reaches.

The three main storylines provide glimpses into different parts of the world. Vilmos Tabborrath is an unassuming village boy who doesn't want to follow his father's path. He has a dark gift of magic and as magic is considered evil this puts him and his family in grave danger. He tries to hide his gift but one day it slips out when he is surprised by a bear and this is the beginning of the end of his life as a simple village boy.

Vilmos is intriguing becuase he is different from his peer group and mistreated by those around him. He recounts a story of getting beat up by an older boy and the harsh treatment by his father. Children often feel isolated and mistreated, as do adults, therefore most people can relate to this situation.

Adrina Alder is the youngest child of a king. She remains heartbroken over the death of her mother some years ago and longs for change. Her wish for change comes with dark visitors in the night but is not in any way what she hoped it would be.

Adrina is intriguing because she is someon just about anyone can identify with. She feels sad and alone in the world. She's bitter about not being able to do what she wants and longs for adventure. Children often feel sad and lonely, as do adults, therefore most people can relate to this situation too.

Brother Seth of the Red is an elven warrior and sworn queen's protector. He is old in human terms yet at the same time childlike in his ways as he is young for an elf. He doesn't understand what is happening or why he was chosen by Queen Elf to undertake a dangerous journey. His journey takes him to the land of men at a time when men and elves are the bitterest of enemies.

Seth is intruiging because he is so powerful yet so flawed. He is a trained fighting machine. It is all he's known and it is why he knows so little of anything else. He also has the urges of adolescence and finds his first love though he doesn't understand his feelings as he's been isolated from ordinary elves and the lives they live.

Other aspects of the writing itself are:
* The books are unique and readable.
* He takes time to set up the characters, plot, and scenes. He takes care in introducing Vilmos, Seth, and Adrina because of their hardships we know why they act the way they do when they leave their homes.
* He does not talk down to his audience of young adults.
* The same story elements that appeal to a child, appeal to an adult.
* His characters grow, change, and make decisions based on their own motives.
* Life is not simple. People get sick, people die.
* Good and evil exist, as they do in reality, and they have many guises.
* It is easy to read. The text flows naturally, even with strange words and unusual names.
* His creativity and descriptions bring life to the story. He creates mystery and keeps you wanting to know more.

For me, the real test of a book's strength is whether or not I want to read it again. Most books get read once and traded in. I've already read this series three times and have upgraded to the special editions as they've been published. And the best part is that the series gets progressively better with each new volume. As good as book 1 is, book 2 is even better, so if book 3, and book 4 is a real treat.

Younger readers certainly don't need me to point out something they already know, but hopefully this review will help persuade some like me who still cling to the notion that a children's book can't possibly be enjoyable to us adults. Stanek created a marvelous story that has captured readers from all age groups. His writing has been compared to JRR Tolkien, JK Rowling and CS Lewis. He deserves all the success he's achieved. I can't wait to see what he writes next.



Max H.

This was a great book! It made me feel like I was experiencing the adventure. I liked the excitement and action. I was hooked on this book from the start. I can hardly wait for it to be made into a movie!

This is the best book I have ever before read, everything you would want in a book is right here it is so good at painting a mental picture in your head it will have you yelling out loud throughout this entire book if I could give it more than 5 stars I would I say INFINITE STARS FOR THE KINGDOMS!!!!

I loved this book!! I could really imagine what was going on! It was full of adventure and magic!

This would rank up there as one of the best books I have read. I would say that Stanek ranks up there with some of the best authors including: Jk Rowling, Jrr Tolkien, RA Salvatore, and Brian Jacques just to name a few of my favorites.

If you like Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter, you will LOVE this book! A 5 star winner!

I am a clinical psychologist, and I found Sara's Children well worth reading for the personalized insight it provides about the Holocaust. Although this book is poignant and heartrending, it remains well written without going over the top. The five Garfinkel siblings endured far beyond what human beings seem capable of bearing. Out of the war's destruction and nearly complete genocide, this family emerged without bitterness, without anger. That they managed not only to survive but also to rebuild their lives is a triumph of the human spirit.

A touching sad story of brave persecuted peoples caught in the political times and war. It is a story of faith and strength that has a happy ending of freedom with their escape and survival. It is a story that would be a great movie. The message is what happens to all families and groups caught in war and political up heavals still going on today. Ms. Hagstrom has caught and told us of the mood, the times, and emotional moment of the times. History is to be remembered in this book, to avoid being repeated. John Elwell

"Sara's Children" is a compelling story about five siblings who survived the Holocaust. Yet, their immediate family was not untouched: both parents and two other siblings were murdered by the regime.

I read this book after having re-read Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning." I followed it by reading "Night" by Elie Weisel. "Sara's Children" tells a story as shocking to the conscience as any narrative.

I can think of any book that portrays in such historical understanding and journalistic flair of what life has been like for these five holocaust survivors siblings.
Sara's Children is not only a compelling biography, it is a revealing personal story about a family caught up in the events for which no one could have prepared them.

I can think of any book that portrays in such historical understanding and journalistic flair of what life has been like for these five holocaust survivors siblings.
Sara's Children is not only a compelling biography, it is a revealing personal story about a family caught up in the events for which no one could have prepared them.

I was at the bookstore last night and picked this up because the cover intrigued me...what a wonderful book! I didn't purchase it there, as I intended on purchasing through Amazon, but I will highly recommend to anyone I know. Such simple, beautiful sentiments of love between mother and child. There aren't enough moving books like this out there for parents to share with their children. Don't hesitate with this one...it's worth all five stars!

picked it up in the store
tearing up by page 8
bawling by the end
How could I not get this for my daughter?

I got this one for my baby but when I read it it seems better suited for a little girl than my little guy. Other than that it is a lovely book.

This is a very touching book I bought it for my daughter while I was pregnant with my second and reading it always made me cry. I buy it for all my friends who are having babies.

This is not a bad book, however, I wish I skipped this one, even though I got it at a bargain price. I purchased it based on good reviews. What a mistake! This is a book for the sentimental parents, not for babies or children. My babies who love their story time are not interested at all, and I can care less about it. There are so many excellent books for the little ones, choose something else!

I really enjoyed the book, because it was historic and romance. I read the book in one day because i really wanted to know the ending. The begining is a little slow, but it starts getting intresting. It's tempting to know what will happen with her and stanley, her and the girls and her and america.

this book is very boring. I was assigned to read it for English class and found it to be terribly dreadful. The only reason for continuing to read page after page was knowing that i had to. Although i do find the story of Anetka and Leon wonderful. I would not suggest this for a pleasure read

I fell in love with the Dear America series last year and since then I've read most of the series. So far this book is my favorite. For anyone who enjoys historical fiction, this book has great descriptions and information about coal mining in the late 1800's. The story is about Anetka Kaminska, a fiery 13 year old who moves to America with her younger brother to be with their father who is working in the mines. Accompanying them is a Russian soldier named Leon who Anetka cannot stand because he is in the Russian army and teases her. But he is detained when they arrive. Anetka has an arranged marriage with man who turns out to be twice her age-- and a widower with 3 daughters who does not love her. Anetka struggles with the work of living as an immigrant in a country and being a mother to the 3 girls. Her troubles become even more when the Black Maria arrives with to tell her that her husband has been killed in the mines. I loved the second half of the book because of how we see Anetka's character develope, and also the beautiful and very sweet love story. This book wasn't boring for one second and the story was just wonderful. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a good -but very dark at times- read.

I do not read Dear America books anymore, because I consider them under my reading level. There is one exception, however, and that is this book. I absolutely love this book. It tells the story of a Polish girl named Anetka Kaminska, who travels to America with her little brother to reunite with her Tata (father), who has been living and working there for some time now. Traveling with Anetka and her brother is the handsome Leon Nasevich, a soldier of the Russian army. He goes with them after he gets into some trouble with the law in Poland and cannot stay there. Once in America, Anetka is to marry a coal miner twice her age who has three little daughters from his first marriage (she finds this out AFTER she meets him), and who she does not even know, much less love. There is also another problem: Anetka finds herself falling for Leon.

This is a great historical fiction novel filled with lots of details and romance. You should definitely buy this book, it is worth your money.

A great story about a Polish girl who immigranted to America as a mail ordered bride. It takes a lot of courage to marry someone you have never met. To become an instant wife and mother. The mother part Anetka didn't find out about until she met Stanley. Anetka is full of amazing courage and strength. To go through with the marriage, raising three little girls and becoming the sole responsiblity upon her husband's death. She truly is a wonderful charactor and you can't help but root for.

Both of my daughters (6 &2) love this book! They love figuring out what is going to be in the next picture. My two-year-old loves the little mirror at the end.

I got this book for my baby when she was about 3-4 months old. She ADORES it and it is still her favorite to this day (she's 10 months old now!). She loves all her books but this one gets squeals of delight and lots of smiles at just the sight of it, and whimpers when it's over!

Great book for infants up to about one and a half!!! Simple text, bright photos!! Fun to read!!! A good first or early book to use with your child.

As soon as I opened this little board book my 7mo daughter laughed. She loved the colors/shapes and, of course, the "peeking." It's (thankfully) one of the few books I don't mind reading to her over and over!
At first I thought the book was ridiculously small, but now I realize how easy it is to throw in the diaper bag.
Would make a great shower/birthday gift.

This has to be my sons favorite book right now. (He is one) He loves each of the surprises on each page, and likes to have it read to him over and over. The end of the book has a mirror with the words "Peek-a YOU!" And he loves Peek-a Boo! It's a fun book, the perfect amount of words and repetition to hold a little ones attention, along with cut-outs on each page that assist the little one in turning the pages, and grabbing their attention for the surprise on the next page. A big favorite at our house!

I stumbled across a nearly-complete set of the "Night World" books at the local paperback-trade-exchange a few weeks after having received positive recommendations from another vampire reader.

Poppy, a sixteen-year-old peppy redhead, is given the death sentence of cancer in the beginning of the novel; her only alternative to a painful death is, in fact, undeath at the fangs of her best friend and crush, James Radmussen. But consequences must follow their desperation, and our quick-decisioned pair is no exception.

"Secret Vampire" has an ethereal quality to it that's somewhat unusual, especially in young adult literature; the only book with similar overtones that I can think of off the top of my head would be the mega-bestseller Twilight, albeit "Vampire" is of a much more abbreviated length.

Smith hits the nail (or stake, as you prefer) on the head with this novel, an excellent pick for younger readers who haven't yet progressed to the full-out selection of heated paranormal romance. But "Vampire" is enjoyable for anyone.

The characters are sympathetic if a bit unexplored -- but that comes with the terrain of short novelettes. It's certainly no slight to James or Poppy -- I just want to learn more about them, as well as James' nefarious cousin, the enigmatic Ash.

Entertaining with a dark taste of romantic flair; a good read.

8.0/10

This was a really great book. It really touches you when James wants to save Poppy. Poppy is dying of Pancreatic Cancer when her best friend James says he can save her by turning her into a vampire. Everyone should definetly read it. It isn't my favourite book in the series but it is a good start. I really like the way L.J.Smith brings out the characters feelings. It makes you feel what the characters are feeling and leaves you quite emotional.It is such a good book it makes you start to think there is a real night world. My Friend and I love the series and want more books out. I recommend this book to people who like vampire,romance,horror and emotional books. It is da best! L.J.Smith is totally cool!

If you get the chance to read this book do it. I read the entire Night World Series when I was in the 6th grade, 7 years ago, (with the exception of The Chosen because it was out of print so early on) and loved every one of them. A few days ago I saw my copy of this book lying around and thought hhmm...I should read this. I'm 18 years old now and I still loved it as much, if not more, as I did when I was 11. I've decided to read the enitre series all over again, which means I'm rebuying a few of them. Even if you're not really into Vampires you will love it, it has romance and a great story behind it.

L. J. Smith's fantasy/horror series "The Night World" deals with the existence of a secret society of witches, vampires and shape shifters, and how they interact with the inhabitants of the human world. Although humans have long since gained superiority in the world over the "Night World" minority, the supernatural creatures treat humans with distain and prejudice, often calling them "vermin" and plotting ways in which to regain power over the world.

As such, it is fine for Night World inhabitants to deal with humans in whichever way they please as long as 1. Humans never find out about the Night World and 2. They are never fallen in love with. As the introductory page in every books proclaims: "These are stories about what happens when the rules get broken."

The summer holidays are beginning, and teenager Poppy North is looking forward to hanging out with her twin brother Philip and best friend James Rasmussen. Then disaster strikes - she collapses, is rushed to hospital and diagnosed with cancer. The prognosis is terminal and the cure doesn't exist... and she doesn't have much time left.

Her family are devastated but James is in a frenzy - because he thinks he knows of a way to save her. Unbeknownst to Poppy all this time, James is a vampire and knows that a sure-fire way of saving her is to turn her into a vampire like him. There are several problems however: her family for one thing, and the underlying Night World laws that strictly forbid such involvement in human lives. Poppy would not only have to hide from her own family, but the Night World as well - and does James really want to give her a life of such isolation?

But when Poppy finds out, she makes the decision: she wants to live and she and Phillip prepare for her death and resurrection. The bulk of the storyline is concerned with this detailed process of becoming a vampire which is described in technical rather than mystical tones, told from the three conspirators point of view: James, Phillip and Poppy. The third act is devoted to Poppy's new life as a vampire and her displacement within the world - discovering James has endangered himself for her sake, she decides to take off on her own...but can she manage her new life as a vampire and the new dangers it possesses?

"Secret Vampire" is an entertaining enough read, but certainly not the best of the "Night World" series. Poppy is not L. J. Smith's strongest heroine (at some points she's extremely annoying) and the story itself often goes off onto several tangents with poor reasoning and illogical decisions from many of the characters. And of course, the forced happy-ending is a little hard to swallow - it would have been more poignant if everything wasn't tied up in a neat little bow.

It is not quite the strong beginning that it should have been for the first book in the series, but still a promising one, with a lot of potential for later books. The general premise of a Night World is an intriguing one (especially for the pre-teen audience that they are intended for) and the books get infinitely better as the series goes on. Right from the very beginning Smith introduces minor characters that are later used as protagonists in later installations; namely Ash Redfern and Thea and Blaise Harman. Poppy and James themselves turn up again in "Soulmate" as part of a Circle Daybreak meeting.

Sadly, the "Night World" series has never been completed, as the last book "Strange Fate" has not yet been published - something that may make you reluctant to begin this series. However, although the major story-arc is never completed, each book does stand on its own as a separate story and make good "holiday reads" (books that don't require too many brain cells and are easily entertaining).

Poppy North is a typical sixteen-year old--she gets through school by being smarter than her teachers; likes to irritate her straight-laced twin brother, Phil; listens to New Age and techno music; has a secret crush on her best friend, James; and wakes up on the first morning of summer vacation before her senior year of high-school with nothing more paramount on her mind than what she can do with an entire summer spent with James.

Until the pain in her abdomen, which has steadily been increasing, working its way around to her back, keeping her awake at night, and causing her to lose weight, sends her to the doctor. Who then sends her to the hospital for tests. Where doctors then inform her that she has pancreatic cancer--the kind that will kill you within three weeks to three months.

Poppy, of course, isn't ready to die. Watching the reaction of her family--twin brother Phil, her mother, and step-father Cliff--only brings the truth closer to home. Poppy is going to die, there's nothing anyone can do about it, and it's going to be painful.

Except there is someone who can do something about it. James Rasmussen, her best friend from El Camino High School, her secret crush, a boy who now tells her something impossible--he's a lamia, a boy who was born a vampire, a member of the Night World, and he can change Poppy into a vampire to avoid certain death.

Of course Poppy doesn't believe him at first, but then what choice does she have? There's always been something different about James, and now she knows exactly what the difference is. So she agrees to become a vampire, knowing she'll have to leave her family behind, but knowing it's the only way to avoid certain death.

What follows is a fast-moving, interesting story about Poppy's immersion into becoming a vampire, the toll it takes on her brother, Phil, who finds out what they're doing, and the danger it puts James in. Because there are only two rules of the Night World: Never let the humans know it exists, and never fall in love with one of them. James has broken both of those rules.

What a great start to the Night World series! Towards the end of the book we meet some other interesting characters, which I'm guessing will play major roles in future books, so I can't wait to get started on the next read.

I really enjoyed looking at the pictures and seeing some that I hadn't seen before. The Boys' captions were fun (and often funny) to read

Have no words. Great book with lots of pictures. It's only till Millennium. But it's great book for it's price. Go on boys

Wow I just got this book today and I love the stories the guys tell. The pictures are wonderful and if u are a fan you need this to see all sides of the guys. B.S.B now and forever.

Definitly a must have for any BSB fan. With tons of rare pictures, this book is really all you need.

This is the best book I have ever read, in music genre (of course). It has sooo many great pics in it, and the boys looks so good!!

My 14 yr. old son is a huge fan of the Kingdoms books and I must admit I am too. Robert Stanek is indeed America's Tolkien, a gifted story-teller with a knack for creating believable worlds and fully-realized characters. Many of the characters become like old friends and even the minor characters truly are interesting and real. The story itself is detailed and rich but Stanek doesn't allow the action to slow, keeping everything moving at a solid pace.

The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches #3 continues where the first two left off. The kingdomers begin to pick up the pieces of their lives after the battles at Quashan and Alderan broke the uneasy peace between the kingdoms. A new force continues to emerge from the shadows even as the evil king and the shapeshifting queen are being dealt with.

Very highly recommended and you'll want to have all four books on hand.

I'm one of those who read for fun, and read a lot, so I really get into a book. And I loved this book because it is a thrilling read. The author managed to create a beautiful picture of a world that every child has or will dream of. Definitely, a book is for all ages and one that lets you enter a world full of magic.

I hope you enjoy it as I did. It is amazing!

This book was amazing. I was so involede in it that when I went to school all I could think of was Vilmos, Emel, Seth and Adrina. When I went to sleep I had dreams about them. This book is far better than Harry Potter , a real page turner. I reccomend this book to all.

It was a great book. It is perfect for Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings fans. It is very realistic and emmotional. Robert Stanek is a wonderful author who can write exactly what a reader likes. What I like so much about his writing is that he isn't overly descriptive, but he describes the scenery enough for the reader to envision what's before them, as well as use their own imagination. Because of this, the story is able to unfold at a much more fluid rate, and that's what makes this an instant hook. I can't wait to read the next book.

I started reading The Kingdoms books since me brothers were reading them too. Adrina and Vilmos are my favorites. In my mind I see Adrina and Vilmos growing up like I imagined and they are very good friends to have on rainy days. I like these books but than all the Harry Potter books put together times 100. I like this one best as it is the one where Vilmos meets Edward the troant and its got the Dragon King!!! I love everything about the king's mate game and how edward is half troll and half giatn.

these books are so wonderful, and makes you feel like you are in the book itself.

The movies of these books are good; however, these books are better and wroth of your time to read. If you like reading books, you should concider reading these series.

I loved this series of books! Janette has such a magnificent way of drawing her readers into the past! Love it!

I may be a bit biased, as I grew up reading Janette Oke books with my mom as a young teenage girl and they hold special meaning to me because of that. But I'd never read this series of books before. I purchased the first two books in the series at a local (offline) store, and was immediately hooked. Within hours of beginning the first book, I found myself on Amazon eagerly searching out the rest of the series.

That was just a couple of weeks ago, and I'm now halfway through book six (of eight). I can hardly put them down! Janette Oke is a fantastic writer that keeps the story going without leaving the reader feeling overwhelmed or confused. Never a chance to get bored! It's easy to get lost in these books and forget that, while historically based, they ARE just fiction.

While there are multiple references to prayer, church, faith and God, I didn't find the religious theme to be too overpowering. It weaves itself quite nicely within the characters' personalities.

Overall I give this series two thumbs up. I'm actually dreading finishinng off the series! I guess I'll be searching out another Janette Oke series very soon!

Because the set qualified for no shipping, the cost of the 4-book set was less than buying all 4 used books. In addition, I received the books much sooner than I anticipated. This was an excellent deal!