Friday, December 16, 2011

Ms. Nicole Waldbauer--Chairperson, English Department--IRP--Independent Reading Project


94 comments:

  1. Jamie, Period 5


    Have you heard about The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins? If not, I suggest you come out of that rock you’re living under to find this new best-selling book. Yes, I have just read this book and am here to tell you that all the rave about The Hunger Games is one-hundred percent legitimate. I am an avid reader and therefore have read copious books, although none can equate to The Hunger Games. This book is about Katniss Everdeen, a seventeen year old illegal hunter from District Twelve. Her whole world gets blown into microscopic pieces when her little sister’s name is called on reaping day. She bravely accepts to take her place, but is certain she will never survive what awaits her, the Hunger Games. Matters only magnify when the boy called forward is Peeta Mellark, the sole reason Katniss survived in prior years. To make things even worse, her mentor is a drunk, old man named Haymitch. Also, Katniss has to face much different problems than most her age have to face. She faces the choice of killing innocent people in order to survive or being killed by the same innocent people. One of those people being the person who gave her hope when she could find no more in herself. Additionally, the prime reason for the games is the country in which she resides, Panem. Panem is actually the ruins of North America. Now, this is a place where everyone is constantly being reminded that they are no more than a piece in the Capitol’s games. This book mixes adventure, death and rebellion with a suspicious love triangle and the importance of family. Additionally, the amount of suspense will not only keep you on the edge of your seat, but most likely falling out of your seat in bewilderment. Suzanne Collins has miraculously written the perfect book, from the plot and characters to timing of suspense. Even though this book has a dark side, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fantastic read. Trust me, you’ll be hooked by the very first chapter. Lastly, this book will leave you thinking about what future our country could face and most importantly, leave you hungry for more.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Zach period 2, commenting on Jamie period 5
      I also read the hunger games and i thought it was very enthralling! There was huge amount of action throughout the entire story which made me not able to put down the book.

      Delete
    2. Mrs. W., Excellent job on your posts, Jamie!

      Delete
  2. Courtney period 4

    The book that I read was The back Door of Midnight by Elizabeth Chandler. I enjoyed this book very much. The way the author portrayed the genre of mystery was very enjoyable and interesting. It was a very fast paced and suspenseful novel. The development of the characters was done in a very creative way that I found to my liking. Overall this book is one of my favorites and I would recommend it to anyone.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Liz

    After Reading The Lost Hero, the first book in the Heroes of Olympus, last fall, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on The Son of Neptune. I love reading Greek and Roman mythology and for me, Rick Riordan is the best author of this genre. In The Son of Neptune Percy Jackson, Hazel Levesque and Frank Zhang are assigned a quest to free Thanatos, the god of death, from his icy bonds in Alaska. They are faced with many grueling tasks during their travels, some physical and some mental. Deathly curses have been placed on Frank and Hazel but they are reluctant to reveal them for fear of humiliation. Will they be able to free Thanatos or will the world as we know it come to an end?
    The Son of Neptune is fantastic! It was extremely well paced, not too slow in sections and not speedy when it shouldn’t have been. It was suspenseful and the plot line was amazingly well thought out. The book showed how true friends would give up their lives for each other. I was inspired to never give up even when things look impossible and continue to be a good friend regardless. I would definitely recommend this book to other people!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Micaela, period 5

    The Hunger Games, by author Suzanne Collins, released in 2008, is a book you will not be able to put down. Once I kept reading I could not stop. It was exhilarating! The Hunger Games is an award winning, science fiction, #1 New York Times Bestseller recommended for ages 12 and up. It is a combination of nerve-racking tension, thrilling action, and adorable love story.
    When the novel opens, North America has been destroyed and is now called Panem, consisting of 12 districts, ruled by a forceful, strong government located at the Capitol. Katniss Everdeen, a 16-year old girl from District 12, takes her younger sister’s place as one of 24 tributes selected every year to participate in the Hunger Games hosted by the Capitol. Katniss must not only survive the Games, but deal with a romance with another tribute from District 12, while deciding if she should kill strangers her own age as a deed of the government.
    Suzanne Collins wrote the most absorbing plot I have ever read. Katniss, frequently battles thirst, fire, hunger, and injuries, loses allies to death, and, of course, fights other teenagers for survival. I became so attached to this character and to other members of the Games, I could not wait to find out how the book ends. The fast-paced plot is mainly what drives the book. In addition, the characters are all well developed throughout the story.
    The only thing I found just a little annoying while I was reading is that some of the sentences throughout the book are rather short and fragmented. I believe, however, that this is to demonstrate the narrator’s thought process. The story is still consistent, and I most enjoyed reading the adventures of this strong, intelligent, young, female protagonist who makes her own honorable decisions when faced with cruel and violent situations.
    Overall, The Hunger Games is an excellent, exhilarating read that I highly recommend for teenagers. It is a fantastic book with a wonderfully creative plot. It will be interesting to see if the movie, scheduled for release on March 23rd, will be just as mesmerizing as the book.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Jamie, Period 5, commenting on Micaela, Period 5

    I thought your review was very well thought out. I read the same book for my project, so it was interesting to read a review of the same book. I completely agree with you in that The Hunger Games was an outstanding book. Overall, I also await the movie and thought your review was excellent!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Logan, Period 5
    Response to Jamie:

    I also read the Hunger Games and found it very exciting. There was so much action and excirement during the story I kept reading it more and more

    ReplyDelete
  7. Gillian Period 4

    Michaela and Jamie:
    I read the Hunger Games before it was popular and loved it as much as you guys! If you haven't already, read the rest of the series: they're all very good books!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Corey, Period 5

    IQ Book Two: The White House by Roland Smith is the hit sequel to his first IQ book, which took place in Philadelphia. It is an adventure and mystery novel that takes place at the White House on the day of Saturday, September Sixth. Throughout the novel, the main character, Q (Quest), and his stepsister Angela race to figure out who is the mole (terrorist) that is hiding in the White House, posing as an ordinary staff member. They have less than twenty-four hours to figure this out before the actual attack is going to occur, but they will have the help of Boone, a former NOC (nonofficial cover) CIA Agent posing as the driver of Q and Angela’s motor coach, and his team of retired spies, which also includes a former Israeli Mossad Agent and two Secret Service Agents. This job becomes extremely difficult, considering they are working in the nation’s most secure residence, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
    I found that this was a great book to read. What I liked the most about this novel is that it always keeps you guessing, up until the final chapter where the information you’ve wanted to know is finally revealed. There was never a point in the novel where you know what is going to happen next, who is terrorist, or if their plot is going to succeed. I also appreciated the two simultaneous story lines of the novel. This allows you to receive a greater amount of knowledge on the current topic by hearing the two different sides of the story. One from the main characters, and the other from the terrorists. I recommend this book to all of you reading this, because it has many of the appealing aspects that you would look for (and expect to see) in the sequel to a best-selling novel. IQ Book Two includes mystery, action, suspense, and much more…

    ReplyDelete
  9. Sarah, Period 5
    Do you like sappy, cute, lovable animal stories? If so, then you would love A Dog’s Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron. This book is about a dog that gets reborn again and again until he finds out his purpose. In his first life, he is a stray and dies rather quickly. He then gets reborn as a puppy, but gets his very own boy this life. The author shows how strong bonds can be between humans and dogs and the undying love between the two. Cameron is also rather clever, because with each life, the dog learns something that helps him in the next. The only thing that was a downside to me was that the dog’s name changed every time he became reborn, and that can be a bit confusing. Overall, I give this book five stars, and recommend it to anyone who’s searching for an entertaining love story between man and man’s best friend.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Jamie period 5 commenting on Corey Period 5

    Corey, I have read the IQ Book One a little while ago. I found it very interesting and was curious to see if the second book would be as exciting. After reading your review, I am eager to read the second book!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Sarah, period 5 commented on Jamie, period 5:

    Jamie, I totally agree with you! The Hunger Games is an amazing book. I loved your review and if I hadn’t read the book already, I definitely would have gotten the book right away. If you haven’t yet, read the rest of the books—I couldn’t put them down!

    ReplyDelete
  12. Grace, Period 5

    Our world today revolves around money. More than forty-six million citizens of our nation are suffering with poverty related issues. Economics is a lead role in today's avaricious world. However, when her dad wins fifty million dollars from the lottery, eighteen-year-old Emma gets hurled onto a tumultuous roller coaster ride just when she thought her life could not get any worse. Throughout the book Everything You Want, by Barbara Shoup, Emma struggles to find herself within. She experiences many life-changing encounters, leaving her baffled and uncertain in the process, eventually leading her to even drop out of college. This book truly captures the voice of a teenager struggling to find her inner strength, finally coming upon the realization that money cannot buy you happiness.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Giulia Period 4
    The book that I read was Hometown Girl, written by Best-Selling author, Mariah Stewart. Hometown Girl is the fourth book in the Chesapeake Diaries. I think Hometown Girl was a phenomenal book and I recommend this book and series to anyone because these books are great and completely worth reading.
    In this story the protagonist, Brooke Bowers has been struggling to create a happy life for herself and her son Logan, after a heartbreaking devastation that occurred two years ago when Brooke’s husband had died while stationed in Iraq. Heartbroken Brooke has moved Logan and herself back to the cozy town of St. Dennis Maryland in hopes for regaining happiness from her friends and family. Brooke keeps her mind off of her husband, Eric by working long hours of nonstop baking cupcakes for her bakery shop, The Scoop. No matter how much time Brooke spends baking or hanging out with friends, she cannot let the thought of Eric slip out of her mind. After convincing herself to date is the only solution Brooke begins socializing and dating, although when it comes to Brooke, a first date never leads to a second, which has led to her reputation of “one and done.”
    On the other hand, Jesse Enright has never really had the life he’s always wanted. He has suffered years dealing with being compared to his immature, undependable father. His grandfather, Curtis is the only one that has faith in him and gives him the once in a life time opportunity to prove himself different. Jesse gets sent to St. Dennis and placed as the head of the family law-firm.
    Although, Jesse’s plan is not only to prove himself while he’s in St. Dennis, but to also find love and soon one day, raise a loving family. Jesse fell head-over-heals the moment he met Brooke Bowers, when she dropped 3 dozen of cupcakes on the ground while walking into a party. Completely aware of her reputation, Jesse creates ways to go on dates with her but sneaky enough to give Brooke the illusion that it’s nothing more than the two of them hanging out. While Brooke and Jesse are so-called “hanging out” Brooke deals with the bits and pieces of her devastating past/experience and tries to finally let go of her dead husband, Eric and considers giving Jesse a chance. Stuck in the situation Brooke has to make the decision of she was going to choose. Who will it be Jesse or Eric? It you to know the answer read Hometown Girl, by Mariah Stewart, it’s definitely worth reading!

    ReplyDelete
  14. Daryn, Period 5
    Would you lie to protect your true love, even if it meant that you were betraying your own family? This is the tough question that a fifteen year old girl named Evie Spooner in What I Saw and How I Lied by Judy Blundell had to answer. Evie Spooner has never had an easy life. Her father walked out on her and her mother before she was born, her mother had to work all the time to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. Then Joe Spooner stepped into their lives and they couldn’t be happier but then Joe goes off to war. After months of worrying Joe finally returns home safe and sound. Or so they think, Joe won’t talk about the war and he seems to have changed. He begins to get strange phone calls and is more aggravated. One night he decides that they should take a trip down to Florida from Queens, New York. Little did they know that this trip would be full of romance, lies, and a tragic loss. During the trip Evie learns that being an grown up isn’t just about putting on red lipstick and smoking a cigarette and that sometimes you have to decipher the lies to find out the truth.
    This is a mysterious and suspenseful book, full of twists and turns; that takes place in 1947. I would recommend this book to girls above the age of 13 because it does get a little graphic. I absolutely adore this book but the only downside is that is a girly book and I believe that most boys would not enjoy this particular book. What I Saw and How I Lied received a National Book award and I would definitely give this book five stars. Told through the eyes of Evie, this book teaches a valuable lesson in growing up and that it is not all it is cracked up to be. I hope you get a chance to read this fantastic book.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Ben, Period 4

    For those of you that have read the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, don’t you want to read more of them? Well, now you can with Rick Riordan’s new The Heroes of Olympus series. I have read the first two, but the second, The Son of Neptune, is the book I read for my review. The Son of Neptune has all of your favorite characters in it and some new ones as well. Once again, Rick Riordan uses his gift of writing to create a suspenseful, thrilling novel that is filled with cliff-hanger chapter endings that encourage you to keep reading. The Son of Neptune has been a New York Times best-selling book ever since its release in August of 2011. In The Son of Neptune, Percy Jackson finds himself in Camp Jupiter; this camp is much like Camp Half-Blood although instead of containing Greek born demigods it trains Roman born demigods. The camps do not know that the other exists until Percy arrives at Camp Jupiter. Throughout The Son of Neptune, Percy and his new comrades from Camp Jupiter, Hazel Levesque and Frank Zhang find themselves on a quest to stop the Earth Goddess, Gaea, from taking over the world. They plan to do this by freeing Thanatos, the god of Death and destroying Gaea’s son, the giant Alcyoneus, to slow down the giants’ armada from conquering the planet. I like this story because of how uniquely it is told. This story is told from the perspectives of three different people; Percy, Hazel, and Frank for about three or four chapters each time. I like books being written this way because you can see all the opinions of each character. I won’t spoil what happens in the end of the story but Percy, who has lost his memory, does regain it again and meet up with his friends from Camp Half-Blood. If you are looking for a great read then pick up The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan, but make sure you’ve read The Lost Hero first!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I read the Percy Jackson and the Olympian series and absolutely adored it! For me, it was one of those series in which my eyes never left the pages. Every chapter had and extremely unexpected twist or turn. I actually started reading The Lost Hero, but never had the time to enjoy it so I only reached about chapter six. I will most definetly need to restart the series! But, I am sort of confused. Percy is the son of a greek god, so he shouldn't be at a camp for the children of roman gods… right? I guess I will just have to read it to find out!
      -Rebecca, period 5

      Delete
  16. Daryn, Period 5
    To Sarah, Period 5:
    A Dog’s Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron book sounds fantastic and I definitely plan on reading it. Your review had a great analysis of the book and really made me want to read the book thanks for the recommendation.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Elizabeth B, Period Five

    WARNING! NOT A BOOK FOR THE WEAK HEARTED! TURN BACK NOW! A Drowned Maiden’s Hair by Laura Amy Schlitz contains your (maybe) worst nightmares… Think of a mysterious death, the image of floating hair in a cold, unforgiving ocean, a devastating house fire, and ghosts summoned through Ouija boards all combined with the background of an early 1900’s seaside town. This story is about an adopted orphan named Maud Flynn who is dragged into a shadowy world of spiritualism and fraud. If you enjoy things that go bump in the night, this book would be the ultimate thrill ride for you. I enjoyed A Drowned Maiden’s Hair because the author does a fantastic job of leaving you hanging on each chapter wanting more. You get a sense of how far someone will go to make money or even just to be loved. If you are to disregard my warnings, be prepared to accompany Maud on her journey though the fog of her self-discovery and just maybe to a loving family of her own.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Always love the "voice" in your writing, Liz. Good posts. ~Mrs. W.

      Delete
  18. Corey, Period 5, commenting on Jamie and Micaela, Period 5

    Great book choice you guys! This really is a novel that you cannot put down until you finish it. I would spend an entire day reading this book because, once you hit the climax of the story, it does become so suspenseful that you really want to know what is going to occur next. Once you think you know what is going to happen next, Suzanne Collins throws in a twist that you would have never expected, and that alters the course of the book. The characters also contribute to the plot of the book a lot, and without some of them the story would not feel complete. Especially Haymitch. Without him, the reader would not realize how much Peeta and Katniss are on their own. You both had a great analysis of the book, which had made me realize some of the things I had missed when I had read the book for the first time. I agree with Gillian that you should really read the rest of the series, Catching Fire and Mockingjay. The books get a lot better, if that is even possible compared to the first one!

    ReplyDelete
  19. Coco, Period 5
    Response to Sarah
    I have never heard of that book but it sounds really wonderful. I can't wait to read it thanks for recommending it.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Coco, period 5
    Water for Elephants
    Anyone in the mood for a romantic story, that takes place in the middle of the dangerous Benzini Brothers Circus? You will get pulled in as Jacob a ninety year old man tells the story of his circus adventure for the first time in 70 years. Jacob ran away from college when his parents died and then he jumped on the Circus train that changed the course of his life forever. As the circus vet, he takes care of toothless tigers, adorable monkeys, beautiful horses and one large elephant who may seem stupid but she is very intelligent (she knows how to get to the secret stash of alcoholic lemonade) . Then he meets Marlena and falls in love instantly, however she is married to August who may seem kind and charming however he goes crazy every once in awhile and when he does some people get killed or seriously injured. Will Jacob be able to have his true love or is August going to find out first. To find out your going to have to read this # 1 New York Times Bestseller. I totally recommend this book because it pulled me in and kept me hooked. However there are some mature parts. I hoped that you love it as much as I did.

    ReplyDelete
  21. Elizabeth B, Period 5
    Response to Sarah, Period 5

    Sarah, your book sounds amazing! Just by reading your blog, (and the chapter you shared with me) I am already trying to hold in my emotions, but what can I say, IT’S JUST SO SAD!! I have an 8-year-old dog (I still consider him my puppy though) and I need to realize, that one-day he wont be able to greet me when I come home from school. Right now, I look back at our years together and I have come to a conclusion that my dog has served his unforgettable purpose of being my best friend. I can’t wait to read this book because I feel like it could give me something to appreciate my dog upon even more. Thanks for posting Sarah!!

    ReplyDelete
  22. Coco,Period 5
    I almost forgot Water For Elephants is by Sara Gruen

    ReplyDelete
  23. Grace, Period 5

    comment for Jamie and Micaela, period 5

    I have not read The Hunger Games, but from your description, I can already relate it to another book that I have read called Maximum Ride, by James Patterson. The book is also fantasy, and it is very adventurous and exciting. The book also contains romance as well. It is a book about six children who grew up in a laboratory, who are also trying to survive in the world. I thought that there were some pretty good similarities between these two books. I thought your reviews were very interesting and gave the reader a good sense of what happens in the book.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Grace, Period 5

    Comment for Sarah, period 5

    I thought your review was very distinct because you mainly focused on the relationship between the dog and owner. I like the irony in the story when the dog gets a boy, instead of the other way around. This story reminds me of a book that I once read about a little girl who died and was reborn. I think that your review was excellent, and it definitely makes me want to read A Dog's Purpose.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Jack, Period 4
    In response to: Corey, Period 5
    Comments: IQ Book Two: The White House by Roland Smith sounds like a great book and with the details you put into your review it sounds like you put a lot of work into trying to emphasize the book as much as you could. I have seen the first one in the library before but never bothered to read it, but now i might and then the second.
    i loved your review and it will probably lead to my future's primary goal to read the book.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wow, that's some goal, Jack! Great! ~Mrs. W.

      Delete
  26. Jack, period 4
    Book: The Hobbit or There and Back Again by J.R.R. Tolkien
    Comments: This book started with a lot of details and supported everything so nicely. This book is perfect for those who want a good sit-down book, where everything is phenomenal and there is so much to go into. J.R.R. Tolkien is known for making books not only fantasy but making them make the reader feel like your there. You can feel the mood, and actually have the feeling your on the adventure at hand. This book has personality and all sorts of elements to be more involved. Here is a sample when Bilbo the main character finds himself deep into adventuring, a strange thing for a hobbit, which normally live boring lives,"No great leap for a man, but a leap in the dark. Straight over Gollum's head he jumped, seven feet forward and three in the air; indeed, had he known it, he only just missed cracking his skull on the low arch". This is how the whole book is and if your willing to read it save hours of time. As Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who once lived a normal life, was then visited by Gandalf,a renowned wizard; but then his life was turned upside down while escaping from huge trolls,fighting giant spiders, outsmarting a clever creature named Gollum, saving his fellow companions from elves, and killing a dragon. If you want to be immersed in a book, read The Hobbit.

    DISCLAIMER: If you begin to feel you can not get yourself away from this book, do not be alarmed, these are normal feelings.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Love the dosclaimer : ) Mrs. W.

      Delete
  27. Orion, Period 5
    The Archer's Tale
    The Hundred Years War, a brutal period in history in which the bow ruled and religion thrived. This is the setting in which The Archer's Tale is placed. Thomas, a peasant in the village of Hookton, must pursue revenge against a shadowy foe and follow a quest set within his family. The Archer's Tale is an exceptional Historical Fiction book written by Bernard Cornwell. I would recommend this book not only to history nuts but to people of all ages. This book is filled with non-stop action and the stuff of legend. I definitely give it 5 stars.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Orion, Period 4
    In response to: Jack
    I have also read the Hobbit, and it is in excellent book. Few descriptions ever do Tolkien justice, but yours come close.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Always so professorial, Orion. Nice reply! Mrs. W.

      Delete
  29. Chris, period 4
    To Ben, period 4
    I have read the first book of the Heros of Olympus The Lost Hero. I have never heard of a second book of the series. Although after I read your review and how highly you recommended The Son of Neptune I can't wait to read this book.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Chris, period 4
    For anyone out there that as read and enjoyed the Percy Jackson and Olympian series and are waiting for a similar story? Well the wait is over Rick Riordan came out with his new series the Heros of Olympus. I have read the first book of this series called The Lost Hero. This book incorporates some characters from the Percy Jackson series and some new ones. This is a breathtaking, spine-tingling, mind-blowing book that will keep you from putting it down. Upon it's arrival The Lost Hero has been on the #1 New York Times bestseller list and The Wall Street Journal bestseller list. In The Lost Hero the main protagonists Jason, Piper and Leo are sent to camp Half-Blood, where sons and daughters of gods and goddess go for a majority of their life. Through the duration of the novel all three main characters are sent on a quest to stop Gaea (the titan of earth) from terminating Piper's father and Hera (the goddess of marriage), also from taking over the world. Throughout their whole journey they have to fight off demons and monsters to complete their quest. I enjoyed this story because of it's distinct writing format. This story is told from the point-of-view of all three characters. The first three chapters are told from the perspective of Jason, then the next three are told from the perspective of Piper and then the next three chapters are told by the perspective of Leo. This pattern keeps repeating itself throughout the whole story. If you are looking for a good read then I highly recommend The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Madison, Period 5

    Book: The Catcher In The Rye by: J. D. Salinger
    Summary:This book is fast happening and makes you want to sit in your room for hours on end reading this wonderful book! The Catcher In The Rye's main focus is on a boy named Holden Caulfield. Holden is a bad student who doesn't prefer school in any form. Holden is on his third boarding school and right before Christmas he gets kicked out. Holden decides not to stay around “this lousy school” so he sets out for New York City, which is where he is from. Holden wants a break from all the pressure at school so he came to the conclusion of staying in various places in his home town so when his parents expect him home he will be near by. Holden stayed in the oddest places, one night a he stayed in a hotel, one night he stayed at his ex-teachers apartment and one night at the train station. Not wanting to give away the book for anyone I will just say that he encounters many exciting adventures that reel you in so fast you wont know what came over you! I one hundred percent recommend this book to you, there are twist and surprises that will always keep you guessing! I hope you enjoy reading The Catcher In The Rye as much as I did.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Alyssa Period 4
    Responding to Elizabeth Period 5

    I think the book, A Drowned Maiden’s Hair by Laura Amy Schiltz, seems interesting. By the way you explained the book; it makes me want to read it. It seems exiting how you put in warnings in the beginning and end of your review. I’m going to put it on my reading list because I love books that are very mysterious and thrilling. It’s a book that I will be looking forward to read in the future. Thanks for the review!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yeah, you were inspired! Great work. Mrs. W.

      Delete
  33. Madison, Period 5, commenting on Jamie and Micaela, Period 5
    The Hunger Games is my absolute favorite novel! I've been waiting for the movie to come out for almost a year now! I love how Katniss plays a confident girl who will do whatever it takes to win including a fake relationship!This book had so much suspense that i literally read the entire book in 2 days! I'm so glad you enjoyed the book as much as I did.

    ReplyDelete
  34. Andy, period 4
    to Ben period 4
    those are really good books. i've read each of them 3 times and loved every second of it.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Andy, period 5
    I read a book called Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: The Never Ending Sacrifice by Una McCormack. It was a great book about the life of an alien boy. It is not just a good book for a Star Trek fan, but a good book for anybody. It has a meaningful plot and is well written. I enjoyed it a lot and hope you try it and also like it.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Mary, period 5
    The Hunger Games, written by New York Times bestselling author, Suzanne Collins, is a si-fi trilogy that I could not put down. The whole novel is filled with unstoppable action, nail-biting tension, and a charming love story. This plot line will constantly suspend you....making you read until one-o-clock in the morning. The Hunger Games is about a sixteen-year-old girl, Katniss Everdeen, who is an illegal hunter in the woods of District Twelve. Her ordinary life in the Seam changes when her little sister, Prim, gets her name called on reaping day. Katniss volunteers and steps forward to takes Prim’s place in the Hunger Games. The Games are ruled by the Capitol. The Capitol is cruel, and makes all twelve districts send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Games, which is a fight to death on live television. Katniss considers this as a death sentence, because she knows she will never survive the challenges of the Games. The boy tribute is Peeta Mellark, a boy who nearly saved her life a few years back. To make the day even worse for Katniss her mentor is Haymitch Abernathy, a cynical drunk. What awaits Katniss in the Games is nothing she ever expected. She is caught up in a love story with the tribute from her district, she makes allies who leave her, and she is overwhelmed by thirst, injuries, and anything else the Gamemakers put in her way. The worst part about the Games is killing the other tributes that are complete strangers to her. Will Katniss choose for them to kill her first or for her to fight and kill them? You must read and see. I recommend this book for anyone who wants to have a good read, but remember its addicting! You will not be able to put it down. Lastly, this book is one of the best I have ever read. The Hunger Games will leave you eager to read the second novel of the trilogy; Catching Fire.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Vinny period 5, responding to,Mary Period 5
      The book sounds interesting and sounds like it was a book you just can't put down. Seems like the author did a good job potraying an intersting plot.

      Delete
    2. Thsi is quite a popular book! Excellent review. Mrs. W.

      Delete
  37. Mary, period 5, commenting on Jamie and Micaela , period 5

    Jamie and Micaela,
    I also read the Hunger Games for my project. I agree with both of you that the book is outstanding! Both of your reviews were excellent! Micaela, I am also eager to see if the movie will live up to the book. Jamie, you are totally correct, this book will leave you hungry for more!

    ReplyDelete
  38. Michael M, period 5
    To Corey, period 5

    Your book sounds very exciting. It appears to have a lot of surprising scenes. It also looks like a very interesting plot and a good mystery that really makes you think.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Liz, Period 5
    In response to Coco, Period 5
    Water for Elephants sounds amazing! I watched the movie based on this book and loved it. I've wanted to read the book since then but have never gotten the chance. After reading your blog, I think I'm going to finally start it!

    ReplyDelete
  40. Mike R, Period 5

    The book that I read was The Red Pyramid. It was written by Rick Riordan, the author of the Percy Jackson and The Olympians series and the Heroes of Olympus series. If you read the Percy Jackson series, I highly recommend that you read this book.It is the same idea as the Percy Jackson series, with a teenager who suddenly realizes he has magical powers from the gods somehow, and it goes on from there. But, The Red Pyramid brings in a different set of gods, the Egyptian ones. There are many other differences in the books, and it is just as good (if not even better) than the Percy Jackson series. The main characters are Sadie and Carter Kane, whose father accidentally releases 5 Egyptian gods. When he disappears, the kids need to fight the evil god Set to get their dad back. They think they are normal kids, but when the discover the magical power that is inside them, that all changes. This is a book that keeps you turning the pages, with constant action and exciting parts. Even when there isn't an action-packed part, they might also be learning interesting information about their family's past, and the whole situation they are in. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading fantasy stories.

    ReplyDelete
  41. Mike R, Period 5, commenting on Jamie, Period 5

    I also read the book, and i agree with you that it is the perfect book that keeps you turning the pages. When i read it, I was always hungry for more, like you said in the last sentence. Great review.

    ReplyDelete
  42. Alex S, Period 2

    I’m not a big reader, but I am enjoying the book Coraline. It has its differences from the movie, but still a good book with many twists and turns. Most of y’all probably saw the movie, but the book is still just as good. The story is about a 12 year old girl named Coraline, who moves into a mysterious house with a small door. She was curious about the door, so late one night she goes through it to find a parallel universe. Her mother and father where much more happy than her real parents, but everyone has buttons for eyes. Her “other mother” won’t let her leave that world to go back to the real world, so it’s up to Coraline to try to find the way out with help from some other characters.
    (^3^)

    ReplyDelete
  43. Dean, Period, 2

    For my Independent Reading project I am Reading The Red Pyramid by: Rick Riordan. Rick Riordan is the same author who wrote the Percy Jackson series and has now came out with the new Kane Chronicles. The Red Pyramid focuses mainly on Sadie and Carter Kane, who are brother and sister. Carter and Sadie go on an exciting adventure to save their dad and Uncle Amos from the evil Egyptian god Set. Not only is this book a great book and a fun book to get into, but this book also teaches the reader a lot about the Egyptian gods and goddesses. As expected from Rick Riordan this book was great and full of excitement. I highly recommend this book because it’s a great book, and a great series to get into that is written by one of the best authors in the United States of America.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Kathryn period 2
    My book is actually very interesting, although the plot is not very defined and there is a lack of character development throughout the book, I would not say my book Magic under glass is a bad book. I think Magic Under Glass is a fairly written book that starts out as Nimira, a poor “trouser” girl was preforming at a local stage and caught the eye of a wizard named Hollin Parry and he says that he is looking for a singer to perform with an automaton he has. Eager to get away from her life of poverty, she agrees. After a few days at Hollins estate, Nimira has met her maid, a shy girl named Linza and the cranky house keeper Miss Rashten. She then starts to work with the automaton who she thinks looks very lifelike. She then practices with him, and to her surprise, the automaton tries to communicate with her. Since the automaton can’t talk, they communicate through his piano playing, after being frightened, Nimira finds out the automans name is Erris and that he was imprisoned in the body of an automaton for the last 30 years. The plot then continues and it starts to get complicated. The new head of the council of wizards, Smollings, is suspicious of killing the old head. In the end, Nimira ends up trying to save Erris by summoning a dark queen to try and save erris. Then, the final climax is a big spat between Nimira, Hollin, Erris and Smollings where nimira and erris and Holllin win. Overall, I thought that this was an ok book and I would recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Lucas, period 2
    I also read The Red Pyramid, just like Mike, period 5, and it was a fantastic book! I would sometimes get lost in the book, reading until 12 0’clock (past my bed time). It was one of those books that I could not put down. The Red Pyramid is a book by Rick Riordan, author of the Percy Jackson and The Olympians series. If you read the Percy Jackson series, and liked it, you would love this book. The book is about two teenage siblings, Carter and Sadie, who suddenly notice their magical powers. Strange events start happening, like their father being trapped into a coffin by a person on fire and sunken into the ground. They then travel from London to New York by a Reed boat, and arriving in 5 minutes. Now they must defeat the evil chaos God, Set, and save their father from Set’s wrath! This book kept me turning and turning the pages until “Oi! The book is over!”

    ReplyDelete
  46. Lucas, period 2, in response to Mikey R of period 5

    Mikey,
    I also read The Red Pyramid,I agree that it was a great work of literature, and was also similar to the Percy Jackson series in that they both had to travel around the U.S. in the quest of saving their family member and the world.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. "Mikey," really?! I'll have to start using that one... Mrs. W.

      Delete
  47. Lucas period 2, in responce to Kathryn period 2,
    Kathryn,
    The books sounds very interesting, what is it name???

    ReplyDelete
  48. kathryn period 2 in response to lucas period 2
    i actually mentioned the name of my book in the first or second sentence, however i forgot to put quotes around the name so it appeared to be part of the paragraph. the name of my book is "Magic Under Glass"

    ReplyDelete
  49. If you’re that person who will absolutely die for the questionable love story verses tragedy, well this book is beyond perfect for you! It brings tears to your eyes, warmth to your heart, and questions racing through you mind. When Allie Nelson and Noah Calhoun quickly fall for each other one summer, they immediately ran into issues. Allie’s parents disapproved of Noah’s class in society, and they soon moved away. Years later the two were reunited when Allie returned to visit announcing her engagement to a young, handsome soldier/lawyer named Lon Hammond. During the visit, Allie and Noah realized their feelings for one another never went away. She then faced the decision between her first love and her fiancé, and they lived happily ever after… “Who did she choose?” is what you are most likely thinking. Was it Lon the provider, or Noah her soul mate? It’s sappy, it’s tragic, and it’s no common love story. If you have read any other books by the fabulous Nicholas Sparks, you are sure to fall head over heals for The Notebook! To all of you try-hard romantics out there; you should definitely read this amazing book.
    -Rebecca, Period 5

    ReplyDelete
  50. Kathryn period 2 in response to dean period 2
    i read and enjoyed the percy jackson series along with the rest of my siblings but i stopped at the last book and didnot read the Red Pyramid but hearing all the great reviews, it has convinced me to start the book

    ReplyDelete
  51. Amber, Period 5 to Elizabeth B, Period 5
    Your book sounds incredibly interesting and frightening. The title is quite intriguing as well, and it seems like a thrilling page-turner. Amazing review!

    ReplyDelete
  52. Jake, Period 2
    For my Independent reading project I read “Tuesdays With Morrie” by Mitch Albom. This is a very interesting book about a college professor named Morrie Schwartz and his old student Mitch Albom. After Mitch Graduates College he tells Morrie that they will stay in-touch but that doesn’t happen. Until, one night Mitch is up watching TV and hears Morrie’s name on a show. Morrie has Lou Gehrig’s disease or ALS. The next day Mitch calls Morrie then fly’s down to see his old professor. From that point on, Mitch goes to see Morrie every Tuesday. Every time Mitch goes to visit Morrie, Morrie teaches him a different life lesson. Mitch learns how to be a better person and also learns what is most important in life. Mitch figures out that life isn't only about money. As the book progresses Mitch and Morrie grow closer and closer to each other. But Morrie’s disease continues to worsen and worsen. This is a great book filled with morals and life lessons. This book has topped the New York Times Non-Fiction Bestsellers of 2000. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys reading a non-fiction book.

    Reply

    ReplyDelete
  53. Jake, period 2 in response to Lucas, period 2
    I was very entertained while reading the Percy Jackson series. I haven't read the Red Pyramid though. It sounds like a book that keeps you turning the pages. By the way you described it, I think i should read it as soon as possible!

    Reply

    ReplyDelete
  54. Pano Period 2
    The Hunger Games, written by New York Times bestselling author, Suzanne Collins, is the first of a sci-fi trilogy. The book is a heart stopping, fast paced, nail biting, can't put down book. The main character is a 17 year old female named Katniss Everdeen. Katniss is a illegal hunter who resides in district 12 of Panem with her mother and 12 year old sister Prim. Panem is made of 12 districts, the twelfth being the poorest, and a Capitol. The story starts to take off when Prim is picked at the reaping. This means she will be one of 12 girls and 12 boys to fight to the death on live T.V hosted by the capitol. Katniss dauntlessly volunteers for her 12 year old sister. The novel tells of her twisted story of fighting, friendship and love. Katniss finds this as a sentence to death. Her supposed mentor Haymitch Abernathy is constantly drunk. Katniss has to deal with thirst, starvation, burns, stings and betrayal. You just can't stop reading. I have not one bad thing to say about it, accept, that it is addicting!
    Collins has written a fantastic plot, setting and, characters so real it's unreal. The characters are so genuine that you would think it is a real life story. It is the perfect book for anyone, not just kids, EVERYONE who wants a suspenseful, page turning, thrill/ love story. Collins has out done herself, and written the perfect balance for a book. Now you know what all the hype is about. So go get yourself a copy of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Be sure to read Catching Fire and Mockingjay the 2 other books of the trilogy. And The Hunger Games movie coming out in March.

    ReplyDelete
  55. Pano period 2 in response to dean period 2
    Dean great blog I loved that book. I too would recommend this book. I love how descriptive it was and how indepth the story line is. I think if you liked that book you should check out my book," The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins.

    ReplyDelete
  56. Pano period 2, in responce to Liz
    Liz that book sounds great. I have read the first book but that is it. By the words of your blog I think I will be picking that book up soon.

    ReplyDelete
  57. Lindsey, period 2
    My book "Distant Waves:A novel of the titanic" by Suzanne Weyn, was very intresting. It is a historical fiction book filled with suspense, excitment, romance, and action, so your really get alot of of one novel. This book takes place in the 1900's and is about 5 sisters(MiMi,Jane,Emma,Amelie,and Blythe Taylor.) who have just sufferd from their fathers death and move far away from new york (where they are from) to a place called Spirit Vale with their mother Maude. Spirit Vale is full of mediums and people who can "predict the future", which is perfect for their Maude who is a medium. While they are living there many secrets are revealed that tear some of the family apart (MiMi moves to europe without telling anyone) and everyone is angry and emotional. When they are back reunited with their sister about a year later, she says she will be going on the Titanic with her boss Ninette. the day the ship is supposed to sail jane and the rest of her family have a bad feeling that the ship will sink and try to get MiMi off the boat. Unable to find her they sneak on to the boat. While still searching the boat leves unexpectedly and they are put into a panic but know they cant leave without MiMi. Will the boat sink and kill them? You must read the book to find out.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sounds very interesting, Lindsey. Nice job. Mrs. W.

      Delete
  58. Lindsey period 2-reply to Daryn period 5
    Daryn, i thought that book What I saw and how I lied was very mysterious and i would also reccomend it to people above 13 because like you said, it does get alittle graphic. I would also rate this book five stars and hoped you like it ust as much as i did, it truely was a great mystery novel.

    ReplyDelete
  59. Amber,Period 5 My book was the Shadow Club by Neal Shusterman. The two main characters, Jared Mercer and Cheryl Gannett, are sick of being second-best to their nemeses. They form a secret club with 5 other kids, called the Shadow Club, to pull pranks on the "Unbeatables", kids who beat them at everything. They pull pranks for different people so they won't be as likely to get caught. Unfortunately, Tyson McGaw, one of the students, catches them during one of their club meetings. Jared threatens him to keep him quiet, but Tyson still tells Mr. Greene (the vice principal) about their club. When the Shadow Club goes to Tyson's house to get revenge, they come to a horrible realization- and everything goes up in flames. To anyone who's ever been second-best at anything, or anyone who just wants to pick up a chilling page-turner, this book is for you.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Kayla, Period 2.
    Rachel has lived on The Property since before she can remember. Her mother works for Ms. Moore, as a housekeeper of the large house. Rachel enjoys living far from town and away from the strong government control most other people must suffer. Most people would hate living on The Property because it backs up to “The Line”, a small section of the “National Border Defense System” that separates the people of the “Unified States” from “Away” and the others. “The Line” is an invisible barrier that can only be crossed if the government grants permission and deactivates “The Line.” Rachel’s quiet life is turned upside down when two things happened. First, she finds a battered digital voice recorder with a partial message requesting help. Then, during a trip to town with her mother for the weekly supplies, they witness the arrest of a woman her mother recognizes. Rachel discovers she doesn’t know her mother as well as she thought she did, that Ms. Moore has some unbelievable secrets, and the “Away” and the others are closer than she thinks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kayla, Period 2 commenting on Kayla, Period 2:
      Sorry, my book is The line By Teri Hall. It is an ok book but i am not that interested in it.

      Delete
    2. Thanks for clarifying, Kayla! : ) Mrs. W.

      Delete
  61. Emerson, period 2
    I am reading The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill by Mark Bitner.It is a true story and was made into a documentary. It is about Mark Bitner, who moves to Telegraph Hill in California and discovers that there are wild (feral) parrots living there. After a while he develops a relationship with the parrots. It is a good book and it is very interesting.

    ReplyDelete
  62. Emerson, Period 2

    In Response to Lindsey period 2

    The book, "Distant Waves:A novel of the titanic" sounds like a very interesrting story. Maybe I should read this book soon because it sure does sound interesting!

    ReplyDelete
  63. Dean Period 2
    In response to Lucas Period 2 and Mike R Period 5

    I also read the Red Pyramid and I agree that the book was excellent, and it is the just the beginning of a great series called the Kane Chronicles. I loved the Red Pyramid so much that I've already started reading the second book in the Kane Chronicles series which is called The Throne of Fire, also written by Rick Riordan. I'm not even half way done with this book and I'm already hooked. I highly recommend both the Percy Jackson series (which I've already read), and the Kane Chronicles, both are written by New York Times bestselling author Rick Riordan. So if you guys liked the Red Pyramid as much as I did then I would start reading the Throne of Fire now.

    ReplyDelete
  64. Zach, period 2
    I am reading The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman. If you are a person who likes scarier fictional stories, then this is a perfect book for you. This book is about a young boy named Nobody. When he was only 18 months old, his entire family was murdered in the middle of the night, but lucky Nobody escaped. He then accidentally walked into a graveyard and didn’t leave. In the graveyard, Nobody ran into a couple of spirits. There the spirits started watching over Nobody and raising him basically as his own child. This was another great book by Neil Gaiman and I would suggest you taking a look at it.

    ReplyDelete
  65. Kayla Period 2 commenting on Kayla Period 2
    Sorry i forgot.The book i am reading is called The Line by Teri Hall.The book is not the best book but is pretty interesting.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Maggie, Period 2
    I am reading the book "The Weight of Silence" by Heather Gudenkauf. This book is about two litte girls who go missing; they are both 7 years old. Throughout the book it switches through different people's perspectives. I thought that was a creative way of writing. Calli is one of the little girls who goes missing. When she was 4 she stopped speaking because she witnessed a horrible scene. Petra is the other little girl who is missing. She is Calli's best friend and a good one. Since Calli doesn't speak, whenever Petra is with her, she speaks for her. In this story you learn in detail about the lives of their families; some good, some bad. I found this book to be very interesting. The book is 380 pages, but it is so hard to put down that you don't notice the length of the book.

    ReplyDelete
  67. Maggie period 2- reply to Lindsey period 2
    The Titanic is one of my favorite movies and I think the book you read sounds really good and interesting. I will put that book on my list of books to read because I want to find out what happens to the sisters.

    ReplyDelete
  68. Natalia, period 2 In response to Coco, period 5
    coco your book sounds really good. I saw the movie and I loved it. My favorite part was all the animals. The way you described the book I cant wait to get it and start reading.

    ReplyDelete
  69. Natalia, period 2
    The book I read was " House of Dark Shadows" written by Robert Liparulo. It had an intriguing premise for a book. I’ve read nothing like it in the young adult genre. Xander and Dave are very well-written. I enjoyed their differences, similarities, and relationship as brothers. This is the first book I’ve read by Robert Liparulo and I am hooked. The man can tell a great story. House of Dark Shadows kept me spellbound, unable to stop reading until I got to the end of the book, only to find these words: Not the end. No! Well, thankfully, I have the next book already. Whew! Highly recommended, but a little scary. READ WITH CAUTION

    ReplyDelete
  70. Noelle period 2,
    I choose He’s So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott. The book is about a boy and girl that go through some difficult times. The book goes back and forth from the girl’s perspective to the boy’s perspective. The girl’s father made some bad financial problems that had hurt a lot of people. The father took off one night because of all the bad criticism. Her mom and she didn’t have any clue where he went. Two years later at a party they show a video of the boy when he saw the girl’s father. The girl got mad because the boy never told them where her father was when he knew all along. After all that more drama happens and things get bad. But in the end the boy and girl end up together. But of course there is other problem in the end of the book leading to the second book.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Noelle period 2-reply to Pano period 2
    I have heard about that book many times and heard it was really good. I hope to read it soon.

    ReplyDelete
  72. Zach period 2, commenting on Mike R
    I also read The Red Pyramid. I thought the book was very enthralling. This was one of the only books i could not put down.

    ReplyDelete
  73. Courtney, period 4, responding to Erica The book "Compound" sounds like a book I would enjoy reading. It is the genre that I love to read. You made the book sound very interesting. I will definitely read this book as soon as possible.
    By Anonymous on Ms. Nicole Walbauer--Chairperson, English Departme... on 1/5/12

    ReplyDelete
  74. Andrew, Period 2
    For my Independent Reading Project I am reading The Hobbit by Tolkien. I find this book very exciting and fun to read. Once I started reading this book I was not able to put it down. Tolkien has a way of gripping the reader and making him feel like they are actually there with the characters, do to his amazing description. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes a good fantasy novel and likes adventure. I really like this book and I would give it 5 stars, I will definitely be checking out Tolkien’s other novels in the near future.

    ReplyDelete
  75. Andrew, period 2 responding to Maggie period 2
    The book you are reading sounds very interesting. What’s probably most interesting is the author putting events into different characters points of view; I have never read a book like that. Thank you for the review I might check out this book soon.

    ReplyDelete
  76. Grace period 5 in response to Pano period 2

    I also read the Hunger Games, and I thought it was extremely interesting. I like the way your review was cleverly thought out, and I definitely agree with you that it couldn't be put down. I really liked the book, and the concept was grasped my attention by the first page. I hope to see the movie as well!

    ReplyDelete
  77. Maggie, period 2
    I read the book Kira-Kira for my independent reading project. I thought that this book was verry interesting, i never wanted to put it down.The book began to get me so concerned at some points i felt as if I was actually living it. Kira-Kira makes me stop and look at life and see how thankful I am for everything I have. I think Cyntia Kadohata is a great author and I meaningful in what she writes. I would definatly recommend this book.

    ReplyDelete