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for a good book? Check out these student book reviews
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown reviewed by Laura, sophomore
Famous symbologist, Robert Langdon is caught in the middle of an ancient war, when one morning he receives a mysterious call from CERN, the world’s largest scientific research facility. One of CERN’s most influential physicists has been murdered! Their only clue, an ambigram reading ‘Illuminati’, the most powerful, underground satanic cult that had existed ages ago and was thought to have banished. However this is proven wrong when the cult threatens to destroy Vatican City, Rome with a time bomb. Now Langdon must depend on his wits and the help of an Italian scientist, Vittoria Vetra to stop the bomb that could kill the most powerful figures in Catholic religion. Will he be able to stop it? Can he save the many innocent lives from the Illuminati? And more importantly, can he put a stop to the Illuminati’s plot for final revenge?
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho reviewed by Matthew, senior
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a novel surrounded by a character Santiago who is a Sheppard from the Andalusia area of Southern Spain. Santiago is a character who loves to travel from town to town and experience the culture of others; however, he lives a rather simple life until he comes across Melchizedek, the king of Salem. Melchizedek tells Santiago where he can find treasure in return for one tenth of his sheep; excited and overwhelmed by this mysterious king Santiago accepts. Melchizedek tells Santiago that he must listen to the omens as directions and to take the ferry trip from Andalusia to Morocco, then cross the Sahara desert to the pyramids where he will find his treasure. Along his journey Santiago has many obstacles to overcome. However, the treasure is not his “treasure” it is the journey itself that is Santiago’s real journey; a personal quest where he learns to listen to his heart, find true love, and understand the language of the world. This novel is a simple read with not many analytical aspects; however, it sends a moral message to the audience: Everyone has their own personal quest and one must learn how to overcome the obstacles that stand before them. If you have read similar novels on personal quests and individuality, then you may find The Alchemist to be predictable. However, this is not to say that it is not a good book, in fact it is a strong tale of spirituality and the quest to find one’s self. Coelho does have a habit of expressing his own moral views through the “wise” characters. This aspect of Coelho is somewhat irritating throughout the novel, but he does include some very divert facets such as; learning the language of the world and reading omens of birds, symbols, and stones. Despite the fact that I have concluded the book as repetitive and predictable, if you are a reader of spirituality and individuality, then you will find this book to be compelling and an eager page turner with every chapter leading you to want more.
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley reviewed by David, Senior
For too long has the potential of man been limited to its own quests for happiness. But in Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World, Huxley challenges these existing institutions in a radical atmosphere where the social conventions of today are reversed and proposed in a dramatic world of guiltless consequence. In the end, I believe Huxley’s Brave New World was an outstanding novel which highlights the terrible clashes of individualism and true happiness in people and society at large. Its pitch of various contrasts of society amid an artificial world is some of the most complex and intricate relationships in all literature. Similar to the dystopia created by Orwell in his novel, 1984, Huxley dives even deeper, including the psychological aspects of this “over-population” crisis faced by many people of his day. The precarious character development laced with probable situation creates scenarios which truly highlight what people value in society. In the end, readers not only see how true happiness is being an individual, they also may see parallels between their own growing present and fearful futures. In the end, Brave New World is an astonishing novel in which I highly recommend to everyone.
Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky reviewed by Zurain, senior
Crime and punishment explores the inner turmoil caused by the effects of a guilty conscious. As the novel progresses Dostoevsky gives the readers snippets of clues causing the reader to question the direction of the plot. It is this uncertainly that captivates the reader. Initially the story moves slowly but quickly picks up as the experiences of Raskolnikov, the main character, reveal more about his mysterious and sometimes irrational nature. Once Raskolnikov commits that vile deed that fills his thoughts, the story really kicks off.
Raskolnikov finds out over the course of the novel that remaining unsuspected of the crime may be more difficult than the actual crime. It is this conflict that fuels the plot development. Constantly working to make sure his name remains clear proves difficult as Raskolnikov struggles to avoid spilling out any incriminating evidence. Fighting to maintain constant attention leaves Raskolnikov paranoid and uneasy. As Raskolnikov maintains focus on his primary fear, other issues burden his mind adding to his anxiety.
Money shortages and an inability to find work are consistent problems that not only Raskolnikov faces but also many other characters. To deal with the poverty, characters attempt many different approaches from prostitution, to alcohol, to marrying rich guys, to pawning items, to murder. Dunya, Raskolnikov’s sister also struggles with money and finds her answer when a wealthy man asks for her hand in marriage. Unhappy with his sister’s marriage plans Raskolnikov becomes determined to prevent his sister’s plan to marry. As lives fall apart around Raskolnikov, his future remains unclear. Conflicting information leave the reader thinking Raskolnikov will never be caught one second, then believing he is on the verge of having everything found out the next second.
Exerting great energy to avoid suspicion drains Raskolnikov both physically and mentally. As the story develops Raskolnikov’s sanity begins to crumble before the readers eyes. His conscience eats away at him relentlessly leaving Raskolnikov irritable, abnormal, and occasionally unconscious. With the issues surrounding the narrator lake fog, the reader finds himself unsure whether to trust the facts presented by the narrator himself.
Various problems tear away at Raskolnikov as he attempts to avoid dealing with the responsibilities of his actions. Raskolnikov, unable to escape his problems, races towards self destruction. With the help of people close to him it is uncertain whether Raskolnikov can be saved from his own internal conflict. What leaves the reader fascinated is the desire to see how ultimately Raskolnikov will deal with his unavoidable issues.
Epic by Conor Kostick reviewed by Nicholas, senior
The book Epic, by Conor Kostick, is a compelling novel of betrayal, greed, valor, and wit. The story takes place on a distant planet that humans have colonized due to the raging wars on Earth. Because their sole purpose was to escape the violence of earth they use an interactive RPG game to settle disputes, run the economy of the scarcely available resources, and give prestige to members of society. The only problem is the best players are the ones with the most resources and therefore run the planet. In this corrupt system Erik Halden and his team of friends play the game to overthrow the oppressive system and save their slowly dying planet. They use abstract thinking to in a way cheat the game into a useless pass time as it was meant to be. Because of this game the society is labored as a whole by not being able to put forth their best effort to gather resources and progress technologically. Most of people’s free time is spent playing this game. By using a technique never seen before, Erik changes the game and acquires mass amounts of wealth. The central government, wanting to stay in complete control of society, devises a plan to eliminate these players who, now technically, with all the good weapons and gear they could now buy in the game, are more powerful then they. This external conflict along with the internal conflict this rebellion has put on the groups friendship, supplies a never-ending barrage of plot turns and twist that enthrall the reader to crave more and more. This book is an excellent read for those who enjoy quick and fast paced reading and who like to broaden their imagination to new possibilities and alternate ways of thinking. The emotion from each of the characters models human emotion so perfectly that as a reader, you relate on a personal level to each of the characters, both good and evil. The suspense of the game draws the reader deeper into the story as one conflict breeds another and the twist and turns of the game, as rules by the dozens are broken, and lives become in peril. This book is one of the best I have ever read
Frankenstein by Mary Shelly reviewed by Melody, junior
As the first signs of autumn approach, one thought is sure to rest within the minds of young children—Halloween! On this night, amidst the blustery winds that dance to the tune of crisp, crackling leaves, and golden hues that cover the sidewalk surface, fairies, ghouls, witches, and knights race from house to house. Becoming eager adversaries in the chase for sugar, some dress up as fairytale princesses, kings, and queens. Yet others opt for a darker approach, donning masks of horror to become terrifying monsters of the night. From furry werewolves to bloodcurdling vampires, humans have traditionally seen these monsters as omens of evil, eliciting shrieks of terror from all that surround them. Of these feared monsters, one of the most prominently feared continues to be the famous character of Frankenstein. From his parched yellow skin and lank black hair, to his shriveled lips and watery eyes, his physical descriptions serve only to further justify the fright humans feel in his presence and the wickedness they naturally associate for him. As one of the many “scary monsters” of Halloween, in modern culture he is often portrayed as a character of pure evil, a simply ruthless villain only worthy of shocked gasps and stares of horror from humans. Yet, in delving into the actual origins of his beginnings, within the novel Frankenstein, one begins to question the accuracy of this popular description. Does this portrayal really describe his true nature? Or is it simply a popular misconception?
Written by Mary Shelley, Frankenstein begins on the ship of explorer Robert Walton, during his expedition to the Arctic Ocean. Through letters to his sister, we learn of an unusual event that occurs in which Walton sights a monstrous creature fleeing on the ice past his ship. Days later, he finds another man, who appears to be pursuing that same creature, but is in a precarious state of health. This man, whom we discover to be Victor Frankenstein, is rescued by Walton and as he recovers, grievously tells Walton of the tragic chain of events that led to his current circumstances. Thus begins the story of his creation of the “creature”, otherwise known as “Frankenstein” in popular culture. From his young childhood in Geneva, where his immense interest in science first begins, to the burning passion he has to create his “creature”, and later, the tragic events that befall him after the creation, Victor Frankenstein brings a grievous tale of having to suffer for the consequences of his actions. Horrified by his creation and unable to take responsibility as the “creator”, Frankenstein’s life becomes one of terror and deep loss. But who can say his “creature” does not suffer the same? Through the eyes of his “creature”, we also discover the aching pain of being created and having to live in a society where one is judged first by physical appearance. From “birth”, his “creature” is thrust into a society that never truly gives him a chance to express his inner, caring personality. Instead, people base their judgments purely on his physical “ugliness”, violently driving him away at first sight, causing him to be shunned by all. As the events progress throughout the story, the effects of his crippling loneliness, as well as those of his “creator’s” own internal conflict, ultimately determine his own fate as well as that of his “creator”, Victor Frankenstein.
Thus, in writing this novel, Shelley weaves a classic text that thoroughly explores aspects of human nature much beyond the simple horror novel it is popularly viewed as today. In contrast, the book constructs a poignant story of the struggles between both “creature” and “creator”, as well as their conflicts with the world around them. Using this narrative to convey both philosophical and psychological depth, Shelley creates a thoroughly engaging novel examining how beings are not simply born evil or inherently wicked, but are rather shaped by their experiences in life. In addition, as there is neither a clear protagonist nor a clear antagonist, Shelley allows both characters to draw much sympathy from readers as they experience losses both within themselves and of others. Thus, though this book is popularly conveyed in modern culture as a simple horror novel, it often pleasantly surprises readers in becoming a very insightful novel worth reading. Though modern culture continues to portray his “creature”, Frankenstein, as simply an evil monster to add to the array of demons, vampires, and werewolves, at least by reading the actual novel of Frankenstein, one gains a better understanding of why he committed such actions and will perhaps judge him less harshly— less as a character of “pure evil” and more as simply a conflicted individual, capable of performing good deeds but driven to evil by the scarring experiences he has undergone in life. So as Halloween comes around the corner, instead of instantly running away from Frankenstein, one should try greeting him, shaking his hand, and accompanying him in the festivities of Halloween— perhaps one will finally be able to look past his flawed outer appearance and find the caring personality within. After all, this really is the one day that Frankenstein is accepted by humans as simply himself.
The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand reviewed by Shajira, junior
The Fountainhead , by Ayn Rand, is a great book for anyone who is looking for a book that has a great storyline as well as a challenging read. The Fountainhead is about collectivism versus individualism. In the novel, Howard Roark, the protagonist, is an individualistic young architect who chooses to struggle in his life and live his dream of making the buildings he envisions rather than conforming to the wishes of society. Roark battles conventional standards to have his own standards stand out. He faces the toughest of life, as he gets expelled from the top architecture school, and lives a very poor life. However he finds joy in it that he got to work under his idol, Henry Cameron, who incidentally was at one point a top architect but is scoffed at by society because he turned into a depressed drunkard. Apart from Roark, Ayn Rand captures the different types of archetypes of humans through her other characters. Characters like Ellsworth Toohey, Gail Wynand, Peter Keating and Dominique Francon are very strong and have a lasting impact on the reader. The vivid imagery, and well developed plot make this book very enjoyable. I truly enjoyed the book and would definitely recommend it to others as well.
Frostbite by Richelle Mead reviewed by Oyinda, sophomore
Rose and Dimitri have definitely been getting closer, but when Tasha comes will he leave her for another. It shouldn’t matter because even if they had a relationship then who would focus on Lissa. Also another danger approaches Lissa from the shadows. Will she be able to save her or will it be too late for her and her friends? Suspenseful, but you have to read the book to find out more
The Galacteran Legacy by Michelle Izmaylov , reviewed by Jaya, senior
This book is written by a recent graduate of Alpharetta High School, Michelle Izmaylov. This outstanding science fiction novel tells us the story of a young girl named Nicole Sky who gets teleported into another planet when she encounters a pocket watch and presses a button. It is in this planet that Nicole encounters various friends, foes, prophesies, and many other adventures. However, according to one of the prophets, it is left to Nicole to defend the earth from a notorious villain. With the help of her alien friends, the story goes on to tell us about how she saves earth from all the hazards being caused. The whole idea of friends and the friendship has been excellently plotted in this story. From cute little alien creature friends to nasty notorious villains, every character seems to have been excellently chosen and described. The fights can be pictured in the mind as a real one. The main thing that I liked about this book is the care and protection that Nicole tries to give for her loved ones.
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins reviewed by Katlin, junior
Books come in different categories and types. Many of these books readers enjoy or dislike. A book like Hunger Games is far from disliking. The story in this book is filled with three main characters called Katniss, Gale and Peeta. They live in a rundown district number 12 out of 13. It used to be called United States. Katniss and Peeta seem to fall in the Capitol hands when they are called to the games. All districts select two people to kill each other in battle. The victor will be the only one left alive. The plot and main characters bring action and heart thumping moments when all seems lost. I personally saw though the eyes of Katniss and how she fought to survive the Hunger Games, as well as the Capitol eyes on trying to kill both Katniss and Peeta. Especially when they both try to fool the Capitol and both try to defeat the Hunger Games while they’re still alive.
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, reviewed by Jaya, senior
This is a Georgia Peach Book written by Suzanne Collins. This story mainly revolves around the point of view of a 16-year old girl named Katniss Everdeen. She is from District 12, the district nicknamed the Seam, of the country called Panem and the 12 districts. In order to stop the people from the 12 districts to stop revolting, each district has to send a boy and a girl to an annually conducted Hunger games. All 24 contestants are placed in an arena where they are left to kill each other, and the last person to survive gets life long gifts. Katniss has been selected to attend the games as a tribute from her district, along with the boy tribute Petta Mellard. This book shows the journey of the two tributes as they try to get out of the games. With a mixture of guts cracking comedy, mind twisting plots, a little sentiment and a right amount of romance, this nail biting thriller can make you stick with the book from the first to the last page. I would not recommend anyone to start this book late in the evening. It is so addicting, you might even forget to sleep.
Impulse by Ellen Hopkins reviewed by Oyinda, sophomore
Three kids explain their journey through the deep abyss of the asylum. They are alone at first, but band together when their suicide attempts aren’t the only thing they have in common. The problems of their family, identity and life are explained as the book goes on. Who will survive this madhouse of the misunderstood when they are the only ones who can understand each other? I recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense and doesn’t have a problem with disturbing sequences of events.
New Moon by Stephenie Meyer reviewed by Juanita, sophomore
New Moon is a part of the Twilight saga that is written by Stephenie Meyer. It is a fiction book based on Bella as she has to deal with a painful withdrawal of her beloved boyfriend, Edward. Seeming to be suicidal when Edward moves away from her, Jacob (her best –boy – friend) comforts her, bringing her back to life. Jacob goes through a terrible metamorphosis, turning into a werewolf. Overtime her love grows toward Jacob as she comes to her senses that Edward (a Vampire) will never return. This book has many twists and turns that always leave you on the edge. Once you read it, you will not be able to pull yourself from it. Other books have a straight forward storyline with a sweet ending between two lovers. New Moon is action packed with thrills and drama at every corner. It is a rocky relationship between Bella (a mortal) and Edward (a vampire). Will Edward EVER come back to Fork’s, and if so, who will Bella choose? Will she choose Jacob or Edward? How they deal with their complex relationship makes it worth reading. If you like science-fiction novels (especially between a vampire and a mortal) and love-drama novels then this is the book for you.
Spud by John Van de Ruit reviewed by Ameer , junior
Spud , by John Van de Ruit tells the story of a 13 year old prepubescent named John “Spud” Milton. The work of fiction, a Georgia Peach Book, tells of the South African boy’s life at boarding school and home during the end of the Apartheid. The book deals with many of Spud’s issues, such as school, love, fitting in, and growing up in a hilarious way. Through the diary styled writing Van de Ruit tells an interesting story without the bore of page of details on setting and description. Through this style the book reads at a reasonably fast pace without loss of necessary detail and plot. One theme of this book is that you should live life to its fullest and value what you have. Generally I found this book to be very interesting and engaging. I found that the style in which the book was written to be particularly memorable. The book also did change my opinion on one topic in the book. My opinion on the nature of man changed after reading this book due to Spud’s descriptions of his life at boarding school and how people act. I personally found Spud to be a very good book, and I would generally recommend it to most people. However, I believe that the female audience would not appreciate it as much because they may dislike the way the descriptions and actions of the book are told by the view of a guy as written by Van de Ruit. Thus, I can only give praise to this well written and constructed book of a boy growing in maturity as a great read for many.
The Tenth circle by Jodi Picoult reviewed by Oyinda, sophomore
It all starts the same. A girl is head over heels over her boyfriend, but wait something is wrong. Trixie breaks up with Jason and that is where it all starts. He commits the crime of rape against her, and as this one incident comes on, her whole world begins to unfold. Trixie has always been daddy’s little girl but this one thing brings on the beast within him, and soon you realize that everyone has that wicked beast within. I didn’t really enjoy the book because it seemed to continually drag on, and there were many confusing parts. Although Jodi Picoult is a wonderful author, I prefer some of her other books to this one.
The Unvanquished by William Faulkner reviewed by Tim, freshman
This book is a realistic fiction because even though it didn’t happen, it was very possible it could have. This book addresses the theme of vengeance. It greatly describes it as a never-ending chain of related lives. That chain only ends when the last man is dead, as it seems so in the book until the end. It also discusses the side theme of race, which is described as having no difference on the blood lustful rage of revenge. This book was the story of the Sartoris family, who knew how to fight, but mostly of their brave son and his dealings with revenge. When the father of the family is killed by a fellow politician the entire town thinks that young Bayard will avenge his father’s death. He decides to face his enemy in a different ways though, unarmed. This book is very moving in describing the conflicting emotions and assumptions of the family. I would most certainly recommend this book for anyone who can intellectually consume a book.
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead reviewed by Oyinda, sophomore
Rose and Lissa ran away from the academy, but they have been found and the secrets to why they ran away surface. Rose being Lissa’s guardian must protect her from whatever comes at her. Their special bond as friends and psychic link help Rose stay close while being so far away. So will she be the only one who can save her when the trouble returns or will she be distracted and misguided by her new love. I thought that this was a great book, and I recommend it to anyone who likes vampires and romance.
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer Reviewed by Samantha, sophomore
Edward and Bella are on their last semester in high school. But a war between the wolves and vampires are starting to erupt. At the same time Victoria is still on the hunt for Bella’s blood. When Bella finds that some items in her room have gone missing, Edward starts to panic. When he searches her room he finds an unfamiliar scent. Then for more information they have Jacob check it out. He finds that it is the scent of a vampire. Later in the book after thinking it was the Vulturi family for so long they find out it is Victoria with her army of newborn vampires. When a battle between the Cullen’s and Victoria new army erupt the Cullen’s and werewolf’s team up and form an alliance. Will the Cullen’s win and be able to save Bella? Will Edward and Bella ever be able to get married? Read and find out.
Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer Reviewed by Samantha, sophomore
Bella and Edward are finally engaged and it is a few months until their wedding. The wedding is extravagant. When they take their honeymoon they go to Esme’s island. They stay on their honeymoon until the unknown has happened. Bella is pregnant! As soon as it is confirmed they head back home. It only takes a few weeks for Bella to go into labor. During the time she is giving birth two main things have happened. The first is that the baby kills her and the second is she finally gets her wish of being turned into a vampire. Not long after, the Volturi find out about the baby. Then misunderstanding and thinking that they changed a child into a vampire instead of giving birth to a mix they go to try to destroy both the child and family. Will Bella and Edward be able to save their family? Will the Volturi kill them? Read the book and find out.
Warriors: Long Shadow by: Erin Hunter Reviewed by Samantha, sophomore
The cats are at it again. This time a new cat named Sol is trying to take over the clans. He has already convinced shadow clan to stop believing in star clan. Now it is up to the chosen three to stop him from destroying the others. Jay paw has been chosen to be put in the dream world by star clan to the mouton cats and start the tradition of a medicine cat. At the end when terror strikes the forest new secrets are revealed and more trouble is caused. Will the three chosen cats be able to save their home? Read and find out.
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead reviewed by Samantha, sophomore
Rose Hathaway is a guardian of Lissa who is a royal vampire. This book starts off when they are in a city because they have escaped the safety of the school. The reason they is Lissa is getting the feeling that she is being followed. When the other guardian Dhampires catch them they are immediately taken back to Vampire Academy. When they return Rose is put on house arrest for accusation of stealing Lissa. Throughout the book Rose finds ways to get out or escape from house arrest. She is the type of girl who will get into trouble any way possible. This is an excellent book for those people who like a mixture of science fiction, love, and suspense.
Frost Biteby Richelle Mead reviewed by Samantha, sophomore
There have just been Storgi attacks near the school. It is almost Christmas time and so that means that all vampire academy students are to go on the national ski trip this year. Usually the ski trip is only for the royal families, but since the attacks are so close all the students are required to go in order to be safe. Throughout the book Rose starts to go out with another guardian named Mason. In the end Mason, Rose, Lissa’s boyfriend named Christian, and two others get captured by Storgi. Will they make it out alive? Read the book and find out.
Shadow Kissby Richelle Mead reviewed by Samantha, sophomore
It is time for the senior guardians to have their final test or as they refer to it as the field experience. When they are assigned their royal vampire to guard, Rose automatically thinks that hers will be Lissa. It is a well known fact that since Rose can feel and see what Lissa does though a bond that they share that then Rose will be her guardian once they graduate. But instead of Lissa she is assigned to Christian, who is Lissa’s boyfriend, for this experience. During the book Rose sees ghosts. They are all trying to tell her that Storgi are coming. When the battle is over they take the one that she truly loves. She will have to choose between Lissa and her true love. Which one will she choose? Read and find out.
Twilightby Stephanie Meyer reviewed by Samantha, sophomore
Bella Swan has just moved in with her dad. She moved to Washington. Every thing seems pretty normal until Edward Cullen shows up. Edward Cullen and his family are all vampires. Edward ends up falling in love with Bella which is forbidden since she is human and he is vampire. Through the book it shows their struggle to be together. It also shows the conflict with James. James is a tracker vampire. He wants Bella’s blood. He chases and tracks her down. Will James get what he wants? Will Edward be able to save her? Read and find out.
New Moon by Stephanie Meyer reviewed by Samantha, sophomore
Bella Swan and Edward Cullen have been together now for almost a year. When Edward realizes that he is a threat to Bella’s life then he leaves. While Edward is away big things happen. James’ little family is still after Bella and Jacob is a wolf. Will Edward ever come back??? Read the book and find out.
Battle Royale by Koushun Takami Reviewed by Sarah, senior
The story begins with
forty-two middle school students who are taken to
an island for a government conducted program called Battle Royale that forces
them to kill one another in order to leave the island. Each of them receives an
inanimate object that can prove to be beneficial
or useless to their survival. They are given a constricted amount of time to
complete the program, or game as well as obstacles to avoid loosing. And as the
course of the game is in full play many of the students begin to realize what
the true definition for "survival of the fittest" really means.
Personally, the beginning of the book was
uninteresting, simply because the author describes many of the students and
their life stories to paint a picture in your mind that although, may seem
unimportant, assists the reader in predicting the role of each student in the
program. At that point one just wants to the story to get to its point.
Takami often takes the reader inside the minds
of each student to "feel" exactly what they feel. I believe that when
one begins to read, this story in particular, they just want to know who is
going to die next, but Takami brilliantly gives the character facing death more
than just a name. He announces human and animalistic tenancies such as violence
as a natural reaction to fear, allowing the reader to see the deaths of
particular characters as heroic. He also uses traditional factors as
contradictions. In today’s society having equal rights and being treated
equally as a person is something that people fight for, but in Battle Royale,
receiving equal treatment can easily come to a great disadvantage when one has
already survived the program, and is not exempted from it's brutal fate.
Many times during my reading I found the
ruthlessness of each death, and the character's attitude in each situation to
appear unrealistic and often corny because the characters are in junior high
school. And for some of them to have love stories
to tell, and such violent reactions to the game seemed animated and
exaggerated. Luckily, Takami also adds that small symbolic element around each student’s
neck. I believe that the reader will begin to realize how the government's role
in the story symbolizes how the need to control everything can be very extreme.
The lack of control and the animalistic treatment of each student that could
possibly represent the government's treatment of its people in real life around
the time the book was written is symbolic in a realistic way.
The book was written by Koushun
Takami in japanese (1999), and translated into english by Yuji Oniki
(2003).
Beowulf
Reviewed
by David, junior
Beowulf is a novel orally passed
down the generations in
This novel illustrates the perfect
example of a hero’s journey. He was called to fight and save a certain country
and he achieved the goal with ease. His impacts were huge in his hometown.
Other countries were afraid of Beowulf’s ambition that while he ruled the
Geats, the country was never attacked. The novel also illustrates a great
inspiration. The gallant heart of Beowulf allowed him to go forward and never
stop achieving. He sacrificed all he had for the greater good. He was humble,
even though he boasted numerous times about his strength, and he was ambitious.
His vision of being the most powerful country allowed safety of his own
country. Just like Beowulf, we should all be ambitious and come up with a
vision. Then, use that vision to drive ourselves to achieve that dream. You can
never give up but keep driving forward. So I highly recommend everyone to read
Beowulf!
Count of Monte Cristo by
Alexandre Dumas Reviewed by Megan, junior
It is 1815, and the word is that captain
Lecle're has died. With the death if the
captain leaves an opening for his position as captain of the ship. The position was given to a young sailor,
Edmond Dantès, a poor boy, but one that was well liked and worked very
hard. He had everything going for
himself, good looks, success, and the love of a beautiful woman, Mercedes. The love for this woman was also shared by his
best friend, Fernand Mondago, who is wealthy and extremely jealous of Dantès, and
he is angry that he is jealous of a poor boy, unworthy of his jealousy. He is also jealous that his wealth does not
empress Mercedes nor can his wealth buy her love. Dangler, another gentleman,
is also jealous of Dantès, not because he loves Mercedes, but of the successful
career Dantès has been fortunate enough to obtain. With two jealous friends,
Edmond Dantès did not realize that he was amongst two enemies, unworthy of
being called friends, because they would turn on him, and allow their jealousy
to fill Edmond Dantès life filled with turmoil.
Four men set sail, Caderoussa, Danglars, Mondego, and Dantès, but before
this unforgettable lst sail, Dantès has a passionate moment with his love
Mercedes, in which she later finds out is the day she became pregnant, but Dantès
would not know of this miracle of joy,
because his fate was about to change.
After sailing, the men find themselves on enemy grounds. They are not killed; however, the events from
this trip would serve Dantès a life changing experience. Napoleon gives Dantès a letter, and without
being able to read the contents within the letter, he agrees to deliver the
letter. Danglar writes a letter to the
public prosecutor that Dantès is bearing a letter that contains a revolutionary
plot. Dantès is immediately wanted for
questioning. On his wedding day to Mercedes, which is suppose to be the
happiest day of his life, ends up being a horrifying day, when he is dragged
away by the authorities. Dantès scared to death, tells Villefort he is innocent,
and then shows him the letter. After
Villefort reads the letter, he finds out that the letter is addressed to his
very own father. With his own father
committing treason, he can no longer let Dantès go free, but to sentence him to
prison for life at Chateau d' If.
Villefort is worried that people will find out; therefore, in order to
prevent that from happening Dantès is sent far away and punished for a crime he
did not commit. Dantès was only nineteen
years old. Upon arrival in prison and
each year upon the anniversary of his arrival, Dantès was given a horrible
beating. He had always proclaimed he was
innocent, and was vindicated when they revealed that Chateau d' If only held
innocent prisoners. Dantès did not give up hope and carved the name of his
beloved, Mercedes, on the wall, along with words of
hope, "God will give me justice". Dantès
was fortunate enough to meet Abbe Faria while in prison, another prisoner and an
older gentleman, who is believed to be insane by everyone because he claimed to
have an enormous treasure. He was also a
brilliant, well educated man, who taught Dantès to read and write, as well as
becoming an excellent swordsman. Dantès
considers Faria a second father because he educates him. He did not know it then but his friendship
would be the gift that would allow him to be set free and seek the revenge that
fueled him for years. Now at the age of thirty-three, after serving fourteen
years in prison, Faria
dies,
which allows Dantès to finally escape.
Since all dead prisoners were placed in a body bag and thrown down below
many feet, Dantès places himself in Daria's body bag, and like others before,
he is thrown many feet below and escapes from the prison successfully.
With the map in hand, Dantès seeks the
fortune hidden on the
It was
this place that inspired his new name, the Count of Monte Cristo, giving him prestige
and dignity. It was the fortune that his
dear friend gave him that allowed him to seek the revenge he sought, by
destroying the lives of those that destroyed him through their own greed. All of the men eventually paid the price for
their cruelty, and with each one, Dantès reclaimed a little piece of mind. Eventually
Dantès learns he has a son, and unlike the movie version, Dantès is not
reunited with Mercedes and they all live happily ever as a family. Instead, Dantès buys a young woman out from
slavery, named Haydee. Haydee testifies
against Fernand and justice is served. Dantès
eventually falls in love with Haydee and his love for her allows him a sense of
normal emotions once again.
This story was about mercy, justice,
vengeance, and eventually forgiveness that gave Dantès a piece of mind and
sanity restored by letting go of the past that not only scared him physically
but emotionally as well. I loved the
book and highly recommend it, because one feels remorse for Dantès and can
relate to wanting to take the law into our own hands and avenge our good name
that was tarnished and to seek revenge on those that have wronged us. In the end, the words of hope on the wall of Chateau
d'If, "God will give me justice" had finally come true.
“I, Robot” by Isaac Asimov Review by R. Anthony, senior
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A robot may not injure a human being, or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.
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A robot must obey orders given it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the First Law.
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A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law.
With these three simple sentences, a young writer by the name of Isaac Asimov had unknowingly changed the world of science-fiction (as well as science itself) forever. Over the course of his lifetime, Asimov wrote countless short stories (nine of the most important ones being collected in “I, Robot”) and four novels about robots (to say nothing of his enormous amount of non-robot writing). “I, Robot” is practically a deconstruction of the typical robot story. When Asimov began his career as a writer, all robot stories would follow the same formula: A robot rebels, becomes evil, and goes on a killing spree. Asimov loathed these stories and found them cliché. All forms of technology possess some sort of safeguard, and it would only be natural for robots to have safeguards as well.
Asimov thus created the Three Laws of Robotics (all three were first explicitly mentioned in the story “Runaround”), an ingrained code of ethics which all robots in his stories would follow. One would imagine the Three Laws to hinder the creative process, but instead they had forced Asimov to devise more interesting stories (not to mention create more sympathetic robots). Indeed, the stories in “I, Robot” have intrigued me far more than any droll tale of a robotic revolt, and have led me to read more of the author’s work. Asimov hoped other science-fiction writers would give their robots ethical codes, and many (including myself) have.
In addition, the author’s work has impacted not only science-fiction, but actual science as well. Many real-life roboticists were inspired to enter the field by Asimov’s work, and a group is currently devoted to creating actual robots with the Three Laws.) As a matter of fact, Asimov had coined the word “robotics.”
“I, Robot” is a must for any science-fiction fan, and a good way to start reading the works of the man who defined the genre.
Maximum Ride: the Angel Experiment reviewed by Sarwat, senior
Maximum Ride is a fourteen year old human girl that has been
genetically modified with avian DNA by scientists in a secret facility called
the School. She’s lighter, faster, and stronger than any other experiment yet.
Oh, and she has wings. She’s the leader of the flock including: Fang, Iggy,
Nudge, Gasman, and Angel and they’re all on the run, or should I say in flight,
trying to escape the scientists’ other successful experiment, the Erasers,
wolf-like creatures that are intent on hunting them down. After growing up
living in cages at the School, they’re now free and they’ll do just about
anything to stay that way. Their mission includes rescuing Angel from the
School, infiltrating a secret facility to track down their parents, and of
course going about the daily routine of scrounging for food while avoiding
becoming Eraser-meat. And maybe, just maybe if they have time, they can save
the world.
Written by James Patterson, a bestselling author and writer
of the adult detective series, Women’s Murder Club and Alex Cross, The Angel
Experiment is his first venture into young-adult literature and I have to say
that he did a great job. For anyone interested in science fiction or any type
of fiction really, I’d have to say this was a great read. I had trouble putting
down the book. It was kind of addicting. I had to read the sequels right after
I finished. I had to find out what would happen next and now I can’t wait for
the fourth book. Max is definitely a strong female protagonist and she’ll have
you rooting for her all the way through the book. I would definitely recommend
this book to anyone looking for a fun read; the pages just fly by.
Sold Reviewed by Michelle, senior
Easy and fluent diction makes thirteen-year-old
Lakshmi’s story compelling and engaging for all levels of readers. It is a
story of antithesis; the beauty of living with ones family razed by the terrors
of being sold into forced prostitution by the stepfather one might have loved.
It is a story of survival; in the world of the brothel, “Simply to endure is to triumph.” It is a story of conquest; to
free oneself from the bowels of darkness, Lakshmi learns one must risk
everything for a glimpse of the light. And, ultimately, it is a story of truth;
each year, worldwide, nearly half a million children are sold into slavery.
Author Patricia McCormick weaves a tale of
apparent simplicity. Yet in the simple lies the poignant. Warmly compelling
imagery of a young, desperately poor girl striving to survive in her harsh mountain
home in
In truth lies redemption. In acceptance lies
strength. McCormick’s story inspires both in readers, both relaying the awful
reality of one girl’s life and the beauty of her final dominance over her
captors.
Sold
is a novel after our hearts.
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Reviewed by Kaitlin, sophomore
There is
a book called Twilight. A book so inspiring that it can literally give you a
tear-jerking reaction, and send you shouting in the middle of class because you
despised the characters actions. Though this book doesn’t just send you into a
wave of emotions it also puts you into the body of the main character itself. Where
you have to choose between the love of your life or to save your family from
disaster. You learn the real meaning of love isn’t just about what you would do
for them but also if this person is able to love you back. For you being the
main character who doesn’t think of having love, to learning that you can love
the very same person who acts like he despises you with his whole heart. It was
written with so much passion so you can feel the hardship of the main
characters decision to sacrifice her happiness for her loving, hair-brained,
clumsy mother. That she simply wants to make peace. Twilight is already an
interesting name, but it will be more interesting once you enter the first
page. Read it and you won’t be able to take your eyes from it or keep your
teeth to sinking into it.
Twilight
by Stephenie Meyer Reviewed by Juanita, freshman
I
recommend Twilight by Stephenie Meyer. It’s about a girl named Bella who moved
from
Twilight is the best book I’ve ever read
so far. Bella kind of relates to an everyday teenager. It’s so romantic how
Bella and Edward fall in love among their differences. Edward is always at
Bella’s rescue when she’s in trouble, which I think is so sweet. I like finding
out more and more about Edward when you get close to the ending. The choice of
words the author used and the plot for the whole story made me feel like I was
part of the book.
Life as an Air Force fighter Pilot by Robert C. Kennedy Reviewed by
I was interested in learning about the job of an Air Force pilot and got a book about it. This book tells us about how the Air Force was invented and when it first started. Also this book tells about a pilot and
Mohammad, sophomore his life and how he became a pilot. I like this book because it tells about Air Force weapons and how they work and also about the fighter pilot of the future. This book tells about different kinds of Air Force divisions and the difference between them. I suggest that students who are interested in the Air Force read this book because it had lots of information about it that is useful in life or for becoming an Air Force fighter pilot. This book shows to us some groups of Air Force pilots and how the Air Force is organized. It also tells about officer training school (OTS) and some information about the U.S Air Force academy. My opinion is that this book is really good and really interesting. I like this book and suggest all students interested in the subject should read it.
Life as we knew it by Susan Beth Pfeffer Reviewed by Priyanka, senior
There are many stories that detail a survivor’s journey
through turbulent times. But I have not seen one quite as enthralling and
thought-provoking as Life As We Knew It.
Although it is a fiction novel, it gave me the impression that the possibility
of the Moon actually colliding with an asteroid, causing worldwide panic,
unleashing various natural disasters to go off continuously, and leaving the
world lacking in basic necessities was plausible.
The effects of the calamities within
the book not only affected the availability of basic necessities, but also
causing tension within a once calm atmosphere due to the lurking fear that
survival was irresolute. I am no astronomer, but this book really made me
believe that such a calamity could surely occur.
In fact, it reminded me of the
current state of the U.S economy. As we are suffering through the financial
crisis, we have similar, though not to the degree illustrated in the book,
problems as far as surviving with less and sacrificing for the family.
I feel that there is something that
all kinds of readers can take away from the book. For the sci-fi reader, an
asteroid collision that destroys the Earth is rather appealing. The adventure
fan would connect with the main character’s dilemma. Even the romance reader
would enjoy.
Life As
We Knew It is not just an impoverished scene, it displays the strength of a
people to continue enduring even if the world is about to end due to the
greatest astronomical phenomenon that could change the world forever. Life As
We Knew It... made me realize we should value our life as we know it.
Warriors Series By: Erin Hunter Reviewed by Samantha, sophomore
In the second series,
Firestar is now the leader of Thunder clan. This series is about Firestar’s
kits. It is based when the two legs are trying to take over their forest. They
eventually have to find a new home in which to live. They eventually find a
forest that takes days to travel to. In the series it tells the struggle the
cats of all of cats go though to adjust to their new home.
In the third series, it
is told from the perspective of Firestar’s grandchildren. Jaypaw, who is the
medicine cat apprentice, is blind. It starts off when they are just kits. Then
as you read further and further along you get hot see how they grow from kits
to apprentices to Warriors. In this series there are many struggles as in the
others. If you want to know more then read the series, Warriors.