Science Fiction and Fantasy Books

Spring arrives at the cabin high in the Skandian mountains where Evanlyn and Will have wintered. Will has shaken his addiction to the insidious warmweed, and Evanlyn has become comfortable with her new survival skills. One day she goes out to check their traps and does not return. Will, still weakened from the brutal life of a Skandian yard slave, goes looking for her, and their adventures begin --- again.

John Flanagan's Ranger's Apprentice series began four books ago with THE RUINS OF GORLAN, about a young boy who is chosen to train to become a Ranger. Rangers function as their kingdom's intelligence-gathering agency, border patrol and guerrilla fighters. They are skilled in stealth, woodcraft and marksmanship. Their acutely trained reflexes, along with their tracking skills and the ability to go unnoticed in almost any environment, give them a reputation that borders on the uncanny.

Initially, Will is disappointed not to be chosen for his kingdom's Battle School, where the knights of the realm are trained. But his respect and affection for Halt, the ranger to whom he is apprenticed, in addition to the role he plays in fighting the evil warlord Morgorath, soon have him committed to his role as apprentice ranger.

The first book in the series has all the hallmarks of typical sword and sorcery fantasy, with a classic good vs. evil conflict. But after Morgorath is defeated at the end of the second installment, THE BURNING BRIDGE, the adventure becomes more complex. Will and his companion Evanlyn are captured by Skandian raiders and become slaves in Skandia. It is only with the help of their captor Erak, who comes to admire the spirit of his young captives, that they are able to escape.

The changing loyalties that were a central piece of book three, THE ICEBOUND LAND, continue in THE BATTLE FOR SKANDIA. Will is reunited with his friends Halt and Horace, who left Araluen against their king's wishes to search for him and Evanlyn. They also discover the large army of Temujai --- fierce riders from the Asian steppes who seem to be based on the Mongols --- and must convince the Skandians to work with them to prevent the Temujai from overrunning Skandia and mounting an attack on Araluen.

Flanagan's strengths as an author are his action sequences and battle strategies. His battle plans and descriptions of fights are so detailed they could easily be reenacted or plotted on a map. He also writes marvelous relationships between the characters. Horace and Will began as enemies, but their rivalry has evolved into a powerful friendship. Halt's gruff affection for Will is clear, and his clever manipulations of the other characters provide much of the book's plot. Erak, a Skandian raider, has emerged as one of the series' most entertaining characters --- alternately fierce and comedic. Evanlyn, who occupies the unenviable role of princess in disguise, holds her own with the other characters, who have often depended upon her for their survival.

A common theme throughout the book is the primacy of personal relationships over loyalties to one's country or duty. This bears fruit when Erak's friendship with Will and his companions enables them to unite the Skandians and the Araluen slaves to fight against their common enemy --- the Temujai (portrayed as people who put their lives and loyalty to the common cause as secondary behind any personal relationships). With Erak's help and Halt's strategy, along with the skills of each of the companions, they mount a stirring defense against the mounted warriors.

THE BATTLE FOR SKANDIA will be enjoyed most by readers already familiar with the first three books in the series. But catching up should not constitute serious hardship for fans of fast-paced action/adventure.

--- Reviewed by Sarah A. Wood

John Flanagan has written a captivating book. It does have some swearing so if this bothers you, now you know. My 11 year old daugter picked up on the language quickly. Other than that, it is a book with new adventure ideas. The fantasy is not too unbelievable and the historical relevance is a plus.

Ranger's Apprentice-The Battle for Skandia, is a great book for readers who want a suspensful, exciting book. This book is about how Will and Evanlyn were captured by Skandians and escaped the imprisonment with the help of a friendly Skandian. Skandia is then invaded by the murderous Temujai, a very powerful army. With the help of Will and his friends the Skandians rid the land of the Temujai. (Note: Please read the first three books for the complete trilogy.)

This was a superbly written story that had many heartfelt moments. The end battle scene was amazingly detailed, well thought out and thrilled to the end.

Ranger's Apprentice-The Battle for Skandia, is a great book for readers who want a suspensful, exciting book. This book is about how Will and Evanlyn were captured by Skandians and escaped the imprisonment with the help of a friendly Skandian. Skandia is then invaded by the murderous Temujai, a very powerful army. With the help of Will and his friends the Skandians rid the land of the Temujai. (Note: Please read the first three books for the complete trilogy.)

This book is the finale of the series, and what a finale! When you get to the end of a series, there is usually a bit of disappointment, but not here. There are more twists than is believable, and a satisfying ending. Someone complained that there is no romance between Lief and Jasmine, but that isn't true at all, you just have to read between the lines. Read the last few pages carefully, and you'll see that there is.

It's a good thing the payoff is so large, because books 2 through 7 had the problem that they were all a bit too similar. And the first book had very few surprises at all, and was pretty typical for a fantasy novel.

All in all, an excellent conclusion that isn't as good as Harry Potter, but is still way better than most books in its genre.

"We must find the heir -- and soon!" - Jasmine, p2. of RETURN TO DEL

The end is here in this thrilling conclusion to the Deltora Quest series. The gems of the Belt of Deltora have been restored, and now Lief, Barda and Jasmine must find the heir... before it is to late.

Who is the King, Who is the spy, who is an Ol. Find out.

In this book lief , jasmine and barda battle numorise monsters in the world of deltora.in the book the chacters are lief , jasmine and barda.
i think this is a good book its filled with adveturs and combat.
the main point in this book is to get all 8 gems and put them back on the belt and find the hier.there are 8 books but there are more colletions.the evil shadow lord cast a spell over deltora lief , jasmine and barda are trying to stop him the 8 gems were taken by the aka-babes they've been live for 500-1000 years.i think you should read this book if u like a advetures.

My name is Andrew. I am 7 years old. (My daddy helped me write this.) I liked when the seven ak-baba swooped down from the tower. And then it was cool when Lief put on the belt and destroyed the Ols and drew away the ak-baba.

You should read this book because it is very interesting and you'll read about a lot of monsters and magic.

This is most defenantly the best book of the series (at least the origanal Deltora Quests)! Others follow closly, but the end of the story and all the secrets revealed takes the cake! The climax gives just the right tone- choas and desparation. Excellent!

My Special Education class loved this book. The pictures are delightful and the story is fun and exciting for my Kindergarten/First Grade Class. This book was selected by my department as a suggested book for use in my class.

The warmth and openness that the authors convey in this book makes you feel like you live in that neighborhood yourself. Cute story; beautiful artwork. Children as young as 2 are drawn in and fascinated by the magical storyline. Great read-aloud book!

This imaginative little fantasy is sure to bring a smile to the lips of the smallest children and start a playful exchange of ideas. This is beginning imagination at its coolest. However be sure that you playfully talk to them about the book and get their ideas on what happens to snowmen during the night. Do not leave them with thre impression that snowmen are animated.

Even though we live in Florida and don't have snow my 3 year old son enjoys this book. It has good rhythm and cute story. This book was one of his preschool teachers favorites so we bought it. I am glad we did.

I've received this book & given it as a gift several times. It is good for young childrem, simple to read & the illustrations are beautiful. It is a great gift for new parents or grandparents. Also the the other book Snowmen at
Christmas is just as great.

This is one of my 3-year-old daughter's favorite bedtime stories (and mine, too). The story is imaginitave and is reminiscent of stories told in the oral tradition. There are plenty of opportunities for improvisation, searching for things in the pictures, singing songs, and imagination. The artwork is beautiful and conveys the simultaneous warmth and coolness of the perfect summer night. I can't think of a better way to set the stage for sweet dreams.

The artwork in this book is beyond belief. The story evokes an imagination that goes on for weeks after the story has been read. As a child I often found myself looking through a Kleen-x to see if the man on the moon would wink at me and on good nights (when my mother was up for it) he 'would' wink, so we would immediately start the spaghetti!

Both the young and the young-at-heart will adore this wonderful and wondrous book. The bewitchingly lyrical text is complemented sublimely by the beautiful illustrations. My two children couldn't put their copies down and nor could I.

Every child should have the good fortune to be gifted with "When The Sky Is Like Lace". This book is a perfect - and delightfully "different" - gift for every occasion, from birthdays to baby showers. It's a rarity amongst children's books - a true keeper that will become a family favorite for generations to come.

So I was ABOUT to pay $132 for an out of print version of this book when I saw it had been reprinted!!! I feel like its Christmas. This was my FAVORITE book as a child. I have an old color photocopy that I have read every day to my 13 months old since he was 6 months old. Its SO battered and falling apart - but he still picks it to have me read to him every time. He LOVES it. If you want for you and your little one to be transported to where everything is strange splendid and plum perfect - GET this book. It is pure magic. I am going to buy copies for everyone I know with kids!

Lewis Carroll lives on in the *BIMULOUS* sky created by Elinor Lander Horwitz and illustrator Barbara Cooney. It probably rates as one of the top ten picture books among readers who agitate for reprints! And how satisfying to report success!

If children as young as three years old clamor to have 'lacy skies' read to them, I wonder if it is primarily for the fascinating, mystical illustrations, OR, are little ones swept away by the language that seems to have descended from the 'nonsense rhymes' of Lewis Carroll? The fantasy in "When The Sky Is Like Lace" is carried along by both words and paintings, and the vocabulary is eagerly, laughingly adopted into the language of children - - and adult readers, too. Barbara Cooney was an author-illustrator with an enthusiastic 'following' who champion favorite titles, such as "Roxaboxen," "Miss Rumpius", "Island Boy." In this lovely book the three girls glide barefoot over grass that "feels like the velvet inside a very old violin case" and svelte otters dance like humans.

"If you see the man in the moon wink - especially through a clean white handkerchief - YOU may soon see a BIMULOUS SKY" and be wafted away to memorable adventures. Brought forth are wonderful RULES - - for what to eat on those nights, what to sing, the kinds of gifts that are appropriate to exchange (my favorite being "anything chartreuse") . All the senses are heightened by the artists's line & color that blends so perfectly with the words of Elinor Horwitz. Reviewer mcHAIKU would write more but on the author's advice I have chosen to ride a camel bareback (while juggling three peaches).

Robin Jarvis's Dark portal is an exiting, action filled thriller.Some might say it is a weird and an odd topic,but the characters being mice and rats gives the story an extra push, rather than cats and dogs.Everybody reads about cats and dogs.I like this book mainly for 2 reasons:1.there is lots of violence and action. & 2.when you read certain parts where she refers to other events it kind of makes you reread the event she is talking about so you can completly get understand what is going on.
Children 10 and younger probably shouldn't read this book because of the major violence and gore(fighting and blood).

I really enjoyed reading this book and found it nearly immposible to put it down and I would think about it during the time I wasn't reading it. I don't generally enjoy books about animals, but this one was fantastic. The society of mice and bats and rats were fantasticily conciveed by Jarvis, who clearly delivered all aspects of the story. I plan to purchase the second one as soon as possible!

it is the first book in the trilogy and is a great book. the end leaves you thinking that there isn't anymore, but just wait till you read the Crystal Prison. anyway, this is one of the best book having talking mice and other animals. way better than what i have read of the Red Wall series.

The Dark Portal by Robin Jarvis is 5 stars for excitement and survival.
Albert's life is on the line and his daughter Audrey would risk her life to save him. Albert is very kind hearted and is near death in the scariest place that any mouse would want to go! Will Audrey be able to save her father or will they be eaten by those horrific rats?
I life this book because it shows us that mice have a life that is just like ours.
This book is recommended for all kids that love excitement and really dark places.

I just don't like rats. They are vile and digusting creatures. I don't like planet Jupiter either. It is a dumb name.

One of the best series I have read. I started reading the 2099 series in 5-6th grade and I am still reading it in my senior year of high school now. I must have read them at least 5-6 times by now! They are that good! This series never gets old and the plot is fantastic. Definitely worth a read! Go buy it! This series needs more attention!

I thouroughly enjoyed this book series in Jr. High. It has everything you could ever hope for from an original sci-fi story! I'm awaiting a collector's edition collection of all six books in one volume. I would love to see a motion picture adaptation as well...

this book is awsome action packed scifi with a twist i read this in 2 days i just couldn't put it down Tristin a boy who finds out that he was adopted and is trying to find his real identity when he alerts his clone of his presence that could be a fatel mistake find out what happens
-podus

John Peel is one of the best authors i know, and i tend to be picky about books. You can hardly put them down, and they keep you guessing. He has some character backgrounds without making it boring. The character's personalities are very distinguished, and he has a great way of discribing things. in 2099, the whole planet is almost completly run by machines. Devon (who is NOT tristans clone! Tristan is Devons clone. Devon was born first.) is set out making a virus to have complete world domination. It's devons game, and tristan is just another obstacle in his way. Genia, is the 16 year old girl who just happens to get caught in the crossfire. An exellent hacker, raised in the underworld, she manages to a vital key in devon's game. Inspector Shimada ( i think...) is the officer on the case, and is determined to track him down. Tristan is one of the accused, and is a prime suspect to Inspector Shimada, and becomes a flaw in Devons grand sheme. Now devon's out to destroy tristan, as well as the rest of humanity. (i hope i didn't give too much away...) Doomsday and the rest of the series are nothing short of exellent! JOHN PEEL RULES!

This is the best book! I love John Peel. The characters and the suspense is awesome! Tristan is 14 and in big trouble. Ever since he fell off his girlfriends roof his whole world has changed. He found out that he is adopted and has a clone! Devon is Tristans clone and is evil! He (Devon) has created a Doomsday virus that will destroy the world. It's up to Tristan to save it! With the help of Genia, an outcast,and Mora, Tristans ex-girlfriend. Can he save them? Read the book to find out! I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fiction, especially science fiction!

This book is a nice journal about the events of Episode l through Padme's (a queen in disguise) eyes. The book keeps you interested from beginning to end and! leaves you wanting more. It's a very quick read, and I've read it several times and still like the story. The pages are photo quality, with faded images of events in the background of each page. The text is a larger print and is very easily read. I wish they had journals by Padme from Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith.

Queen Amidala is a brave young lady who must rise up to an evil Phantom to save her people, in this book it has pictures of most of her costumes and lots of fun reading for children 9-13.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I first bought this book. I can say now that reading it was a most pleasurable experience. Jude Watson has done an admirable job with this journal. It is the deep introspections of a young girl, told shrewdly with a great deal of empathy, not only for Amidala, but for all the characters that she interacts with. The journal displays Amidala's keen insight, and sharp mind, and examines her motives and decisions with great sensitivity. It tells us a little about her background, and her relationships with the people around her. At the end, I felt as though I had discovered a real person.

Though Luke's journal was my personal favorite of the Journal books, this one was definitely the best written. It was better than Anakin's especially, since this one truly got into the mind of Queen Amidala, whereas Anakin's wasn't as good at bringing out his character (what little he had) or anyone elses. This one however, not only lets us get to know Amidala, but also brings out the other characters in a way that made Episode 1 seem much more interesting than it actually was. It was fascinating to find out more about Amidala,(I didn't previously realize she was only fourteen, in the movie she seemed older!) who I found a very intriguing character in the movie, though I was confused about where and when she was Amidala/Padme. This book answered my questions about that also, tying everything together in a satisfying knot. Also, I found Anakin's character much more interesting in this book than even in his own journal. In the movie especially he irritated me, because he just seemed too cute and sweet, but here he is much more likable. This book would be good for any Star Wars fan, especially those twelve and under.

Relive the movie "Star Wars: Episode I" through the eyes of the newly elected Queen Amidala. This young teen begins this journal before the movie began. Readers see the training Amidala went through in preparation for her future post. In the book we find out WHY Amidala puts lipstick on her upper-lip fully, yet only a slash on her lower-lip. We see the defenses that were made by the guards, such as a decoy, but never dreamed would ever have to be used. (Oh come on, you did not HONESTLY think those handmaidens were there for LOOKS, did you?)

**** Not as magnificent as Princess Leia's journal, but just as enlightening! In the movie, Queen Amidala had to keep her face blank so her adversaries could not read her. In this book, we see all the thoughts, fears, and strategies that went on behind the royal mask. In fact, this book made Amidala's character more impressive than the movie did. It can also be used as a quick refresher before you flock to see "Episode II: Attack of the Clones" in the Summer of 2002! Very good reading! ****

A little bit longer than some other books like this, so perhaps slightly more complex. This is a just post Pantheon Hulk, stuck in reverse, intelligent and green, or mindless savage and human.

A younger relative Major Talbot reforms the Hulkbusters and fails, the Banners are forced to move a couple of times. Betty gets pregnant.

Siamese twins, enter Dr Strange in a complicated surgical procedure to try and save them.

Enter the Maestro, taking one son.

The Hulk follows through the Crossroads and dimensions, to track him down. A planet with a stuffed Rick Jones, and an elite unit of Hulks, including WolvaDeathlok Hulk, Thing Hulk and Elric Hulk. The Hulk's son is now a grown half-Hulk, too. In a nasty twist, the name of this unit is also the Hulkbusters.

All in all, one of those crazy Hulk stories with the lot, tragedy, Hulkbusting and bashing.

The Hulk and Major Talbot discuss Les Miserables, and Banner and his son have an argument about Nietzsche! Didn't see those coming. Something here for everyone almost, and really, a 3.75 I'd say.

While I enjoy stories about the Hulk, I've grown so very tired of 'evil army people' after the Hulk. Yes, I know that the military chasing and hunting the Hulk as been there since the beginning but I really wish they would do away with it. After all if the military chased down super-being because of the damage they coul dor have done they would be after everyone. It just isn't a story line that should be kept up. Aside from not liking the military involvement in the Hulk "What Savage Beast" was a decent read. It was a quick read (finished in 2 days) and you really don't have to strain yourself to follow along.

To have been a really good book the author should have delved into the relationship problems between Bruce and Betty. If there were ever a place to show the most powerful being in the world to be completly helpless it would be as he faced the wrath of his wife. That I would have payed extra to read. But alas the tension in the marriage was never used to full effect and only briefly touched on.

Again not a baad book but I would borrow it from a friend or library and spend my $ on something better.

I've been a fan of the Hulk for almost two decades now, so I was very excited when I first heard he would be featured in a full-length book.

Having been ousted by his former Pantheon teammates, the Hulk is left with only one alternative: to keep a low-profile and try to lead a normal life with his beautiful and understanding wife, Betty. However, things have never been that simple for the Hulk, and soon he must deal with an endless array of obstacles including a single-minded army major, an unexpected pregnancy, and a bizarre new series of transformations.

Peter David, a magnificent writer of both comic books and novels, manages to blend the two distinct mediums together and produce a story that has an instant all-around appeal. The first chapter tells new readers everything they need to know, most notably how the Hulk changed from a raging child-like brute to an intelligent and self-confident genius.

David's descriptions of the characters and their surroundings are expressed with such vivid detail that it's easy to picture the workings of each scene in our minds. From a mundane suburban apartment to a mysterious otherworldly dimension, everything is always perfectly clear.

Also featuring illustrations by renowned comic book artist George Perez (Incredible Hulk: Future Imperfect, Avengers/JLA), What Savage Beast is an action-packed, emotionally-gripping tale that more than lives up to its reputation. Strongest one there is!

Now THIS is what I'm talking about. Finally a novel worthy of its main character. You can tell that Peter David knows his stuff, and *GASP!!!* actually CARES about his characters instead of just writing about them. I was actually shocked by how much turmoil that the main characters (Bruce Bnner/Hulk, Betty Banner, Doc Samson)went through in this book, OUTSIDE of normal comic continuity. This is quite literally a "page turner" as the sotry is just, literally, all over the place. My only complaint is that the end conclusion feels abrupt and rushed. Maybe Mr. David was on a deadline, or maybe he just couldn't come up with a worthy enough conclusion to his fantastic story. Who knows, but it won't diminish the impact of what happened before. It's a shame that Mr. David didn't write another Hulk novel, as the Hulk novels are actually some of the better ones. Oh well, definately check this out!

The Incredible Hulk was my favourite marvel superhero ever since I was a kid ,that is why I purchased this book because I had hoped that it would bring me back to the childhood days of yesteryears,boy did I got more than what I bargained for!!I was stuck with the savage Hulk when last I read about him ,and when I read this book....it took me to new planes of where the Hulk is now,his multiple personality disorder and his temporary cure by Dr Leonard Samson,His relationship with Betty Thunderbolt Ross,the miraculous cure of the Hulks transformation dilemma was really a cool twist in this book ,and most of all,The Hulks/Bruce Banners sons!!!!!I shouldn't say anything more!this book kept me at the edge of my seat and made me beg for more.If you're a fan of the Hulk,this is an epic,if you're not a fan ,you'll become a fan !!!!!!

I used to give copies of this book away. I would "lend" it to a friend, but knew it was never coming back. I had to stop doing that when the paperbacks became harder and harder to find.

I don't often re-read books, but I've certainly read this one at least 10 times. If you like technology and a good story with interesting storytelling, don't hesitate to pick up a copy. You won't regret it.

...that I give to any friend who is looking for an introduction to Science Fiction. This is the first book I get into the hands of any new friend (and Sci-fi fan) who has not yet come across Daniel Keys Moran. These books are on the same shelf as my Frank Herbert, Larry Niven, Robert Heinlein, William Gibson, Neal Stephenson, Asimov and Tolkien.I'm hard pressed to think of any higher praise I could offer on its behalf.

Trent, thought to be one of the Castanaveras telepaths that caused the Troubles and drove tens of thousands of people instantly crazy, is at the top of the U.N.'s most wanted list. The problem is, while genetically perfect, Trent is not a telepath, and just wants to live a quiet life as a master thief. Now that one of the U.N. Peacekeeper Elite cyborg officers is on his trail, Trent is forced to run and maybe, just maybe, pay the Peacekeepers back for the cold-blooded murder of everyone he knew and loved.
This book is fast paced, funny and occasionally thought provoking. It is a nice easy read. It is also my all time favorite. I actually own two copies, one is a limited edition hardcover. I have read this book easily over a dozen times.

This book has redefined the way i view science ficiton the writing is suberb and Trent is the man. Make sure to read emrald eyes first and catch the last dancer for a little bit more about his adventures.

I wish I could write well enough to give this book the kudos it deserves. I cannot, so I will not try. All you need to know is that as of this review, this books rates 5 stars on 19 reviews. That should be more than enough to convince you that you need to read 'The Long Run' & 'Emerald Eyes'.

Lynn does it again. What can I say? Her imagination and sense of humor is fantastic!

The Mage's Daughter picks up with Morgan, back on Melksham Island, trying to recover her strength (and heart) after a near-death experience. Miach has been using his mage powers to check up on her during this time.

When Morgan decides to go back to Gobhan, home of Scymgeour Weger, Miach cannot sense her anymore. He goes in search of her, desperate to make sure she is safe. When he learns of where she is he goes after her. He is determined to do anything to get her out of there, even if it means earning Weger's mark. A series of events unfold, leading to the discovery of many important things.

--The series just keeps getting better! The relationship between Morgan and Miach is beautiful, and well done. The events that unfold keep you at the edge of your seat. I made the mistake of beginning this book when I had a lot of things to get done. I couldn't put it down! The ending is great and I didn't feel cheated at all. I cannot wait until the third book comes out. Highly recommended!

I liked the first installment of this series but boy, this second book really got me hooked. I like Miach before but now I am totally obsessed with him. Please tell me a more perfect hero...handsome, intelligent, strong, loyal, powerful, resourceful, magical(in more ways than one), sensitive, will do anything for his love...but then again, somehow LK makes him believable and human too.

Morgan was kind of a cry-baby in this book, but all things considered, it was still acceptable. Even in book one she didn't strike me as the hardened mercenary sword-maiden she wanted to be. She was still tender and sensitive inside. In book II, after learning her parentage, one can understand why. What I like is that she didn't play hard-to-get, or hold on to misunderstanding. She was honest with her feelings towards Miach. Together, their tender moments make my heart melt...

I love this trilogy. Bravo to LK and can't wait for the next book.

I cannot say enough about how much I enjoy this book and this series. It is number 2 in the Nine Kingdoms series by Lynn Kurland. I have always loved her books because of her creativity, dynamic characters and romantic stories; stories that are truly romantic, not trash. I bought this book a month ago and already have read it twice. I guess I'll just have to keep re-reading the first two until the third book comes out! I can't wait!!! I always loved her other books, but I am now a life-long fan. Kurland is without a doubt my FAVORITE author. If you like fantasy-historical-romantic-ish books YOU HAVE TO READ THESE BOOKS!!!!

Enough said.

This is an AWSOME book!!! My congrats Ms. Kurand on a job well done. The first book is one of my most favorite fantasies. This book was no let down. As good as or better than the first book it has me eagerly awaiting more!!! READ this book!!! It is wonderful!!!