Bookworm

Elves of Zeoch: The Last Two

2012-03-04T13:00:00.000-06:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

Storyline - Camilla and Ebeny have grown up with their uncle, never nowing their father and their mother long dead. But one day they are forced to flee their home when a creature attacks them. They go to Zeoch, another world where evil has killed of the elf race and taken over. Soon, they learn that their mother was an elf and meet their father. As they travel to The Secret Valley of the Elves, they encounter enemies, make friends, and learn the magic that has been inside them so long. But will they be able to overcome the evil comeing to distroy them and what they have just gained?

Author - Kaden Hurley

Publisher - Ambient Press: an imprint of Destiny Image

Age Group - 11 and up

Content - Ebeny disobeyed once but the girls usually tried to do the right things and stood up for and protected their friends and family.

Personal Opinion - The story had a good promise but I had trouble getting into it. The creatures were very creative and fun, quite orginial consepts and ideas. The descpritions and details were also very vivid. But I flet things came too easily for the characters when they were fast with adversity. The characters also used phrases and talked in a way that wasn't very believable to me. With that said, I think this author did an exceptional job for being on the age of 9 when she started and age 11 when published. I believe this authors has lots of potential as she continues to right and hone her skill.

Links - Learn more about the book and author here.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com

Diamond Estates: The Wishing Pearl & Giveaway

2012-02-27T13:00:00.000-06:00

"Sixteen-Year-Old
Olivia Mansfield
Dreams of a Land
Far, Far Away..."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4.5 Worms

Storyline -Missing her father, terrified and hating her abusive step-father, and angry with her mother, Olivia dreams of when she can leave home to attend a prestigious music school. Because of her rotten life, she can't understand why she plays the good girl and begins to rebell with smoking, alcohol, and soon drugs. But when her best friend dies, she is left with a choice about her own life. Choosing to do something, she goes to Diamond Estates, a school for troubled teen girls, to change her life around. But things are just beginning for her and she is pretty sure she will not find God here. No matter that others are saying she will.

Author - Nicole O'Dell

Publisher - Barbour Publishing

Age Group -15 or 16 and up

Content -Drinking and smoking (and a little pot) by Olivia and her friends before going to Diamond Estates. Olivia is close to her brother and makes an effort to communicate with him (he's deaf). She works hard to over come what has brought her down and is good to her friends, very supportive. Lots of intense issues that the girls are experiencing (abortions, anorexia, living on the streets, and more that are even more intense than these). They all search for God. He is very present within the school.

Personal Opinion -I believed this book and the characters so much. Even though I have never met anyone like these girls or lived in their situations, from what I hear about the world, their situations, choices, and feelings are not off at all. I thought Olivia got out of the cigarettes and alcohol to quickly for how long she had been in it before going to Diamond Estates but I think that is probably my biggest complaint. The romance story was well handled and the friendships that were made were awesome (I loved those girls and felt for them). As a side note, I loved how there were deaf characters in the book. I am partial to the language (by the way, the description of the signs were correct for the ones I knew, which was must) and think deaf culture needs to be represented in more in literature. As a sum up, wonderful book and talented author. But I still think that the guy running the program should not be the one setting the schedule for girls. Half hour to wake up and put on make up? I don't do make up and I still need more than half an hour. Just saying.

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The CHAOS Trilogy: Invaision

2012-02-19T13:00:00.002-06:00

"He Didn't Ask to be a Hero,
But Now All that Stands
Between Us and Chaos
... is Colt."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline -Colt is an average 16 year old with parents that love him and a hobby of surfing. Then an accident takes his parents away and changes everything. But, not everyone thinks it was an accident. When he moves to Arizona to live with his grandfather, Colt gets a call from a stranger claiming that his parents were murdered and that major company, which his mother was writing an article about, was responsible. Learning aliens exist and riding flying motorcycles isn't helping Colt's sanity but with the help of his friends, Oz and Danielle, he just might live through the assassination attempts. Maybe.

Author -Jon S. Lewis
Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group -14 and up

Content -Colt does what is right but he and his friends look to adults very minimally for help and usually do things themselves to take care of what is going on. When things started getting out of hand Colt did go to his Grandfather once but still tried to handle things himself. Oz is really laid back and can be rude. Danielle can and does hack into computers. Colt goes to a girl's room and she tells him something about her family but someone points out that it was inappropriate to go to her room, even though nothing happened or was even thought.

Personal Opinion -This was an enjoyable story but I like book 2 the best so far. Don't get me wrong, this book had lots of action, a well put together story and mystery, and diverse, interesting characters but something clicked for me in the second. I also thought there would be a bit more Christian elements to the story (went to church once and learned a christian song for a future service) but I appreciated that it was clean and how the situation with Colt going to a girl's room, even though nothing happened, was handled. I think more examples like this need to be in today's literature. Fun book and can't wait to read book 3. Almost want to read book 2 again to read it somewhat in order but I think I will be okay. :)

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Links -Learn more about the books and author here: http://chaosnovels.com/

Buy - Amazon

Special Notes -Alienation, book 2 Review

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How to Train Your Dragon: How to Break a Dragon's Heart

2012-02-12T13:00:00.000-06:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - When Camicazi goes missing, warriors of Berk go searching with the Bog-Burglars. But are surrounded by Uglithugs who wants to know who has been sending love letters to the Chief's daughter. Hiccup discovers it was Fishlegs so, to protect him, he claims he did it and is sent on an impossible task that 11 others have gone on, have not come back. Fishlegs, not wanting to be a joke and to discover who is family is, goes on the task but gets captured. Will he and the others escape before being sacrificed by the Berserks? Will Hiccup find a way out? And will he finally overcome this one particular villain?

Author - Crassida Cowell

Publisher - Little, Brown and Company

Age Group - 13 or 14 and up

Content - Hiccup lies once to protect a friend and a second so a bad guy wont kill him. Hiccup hears a prophesy about himself and wonders if it could be true. He tries to help and protect others.

Personal Opinion - This was a good book for the How to Train Your Dragon Series. I think it let you in on more of the personal history of Hiccup and his family and a friend. I did find the prophesying of an old king about the future was a bit strange (and the witch) but I still found it the same good, tongue-in-cheek funny, lesson teaching story that the How to Train Your Dragon Series is. The reader got to be more personal with the characters than before, in my opinion, with this book. I look forward to the next adventure and what craziness will happen.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://www.howtotrainyourdragonbooks.com/

Buy - Amazon

Special Notes - This is the eighth book in the series. How to Train Your Dragon Review. This review is done in an older style than more more recent reviews.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

Giveaway WINNER!

2012-02-05T17:09:00.001-06:00

Thanks to everyone who stopped by and posted a comment on Replication. But, as you all know, I had a giveaway with that review and the winner is....

Wait for it.....

Wait for it......

Know you want to hit me if I don't just say it, right?

Okay, okay........................................................ Megan!

Congrats! I will be emailing you soon with details such as getting your address. Thanks and I hope to see you all again on Bookworm.

Dark Sea Annals: The Errant King

2012-02-05T13:00:00.001-06:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - King Lochland is overwhelmed by the work of the kingdom of Myriad. So he goes out and lives among his people, taking up new trades to blend with the town's folk. But old and new enemies are rising up and causing destruction and heart ache wherever they go. Hinterlanders, who live on the other side of the mountains, have an old queen, known as the Red Queen, returns, worse now than she was before. Now part dragon, she rains fire on whoever rebels against her. Alistair and Telwyn go off looking for Cetheral when Abbageal's dreams are haunted by him. But a worst evil is coming from the Dark Sea. Can this evil be turned away? Will the Halfainin be found and be called forth?

Author - Wayne Thomas Batson

Publisher - Living Ink Press

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - Lochland, Telwyn, Ariana, and the rest of the group all defended and protected one another. They all are willing to make sacrifices for others. When a villain kills someone, another at first thinks they are having a 'romatic encounter'. A lot of "blood spurting" described.

Personal Opinion - Good but perhaps too many characters to follow. Don't get me wrong, the characters were great and diverse, and I enjoyed them very much. But, because of so many character, it seemed a little long. Besides that, the story lines were intriguing and new beings were introduced as well as characters I hope to see more of. The Hinterland people were so interesting and fun (they reminded me a bit of Hobbits). I am curious as to how some inhabitants of the land have fared after the terrible battles. The story was good and is leading up to more, dangerous adventures for the next books in the series. So many questions need to answered with the ending of this book.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://enterthedoorwithin.blogspot.com/

Buy - Spearhead Books, Amazon,

Special Notes - Sword in the Stars Review

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

Replication: The Jason Expiriment

2012-01-30T13:00:00.000-06:00

"When Your Life is Not Your Own"

Bookworm's Ranking - 5 Worms

Storyline - Martyr, a clone living with fifty-five others like him, has always lived knowing he was going to die when he turned eighteen to save the world above his underground home from the toxic air. But he has just one wish, to see the sky before he goes. When the doctors refuse, Martyr takes a security card and goes above ground himself. But it is cold and the sky is black and not blue like he was told. He hides in a strange vehicle that is called a car and goes to one of the doctor's houses. What he finds there is strange. A girl by the name of Abby tells him that the air is not toxic and that he has been lied too. As Martyr learns about the world and a God that Abby talks to but can't be seen, they begin to investigate what is going on at the Jason Farms. Why do the clones die if they are healthy and how? Can they save the other clones from their fate?

Author - Jill Williamson

Publisher - Zondervan

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - Boys make some cat calls. Martyr is so sweet and innocent and defends those that need protection and is very giving of himself. Abby is determined to help those less fortunate and bring others to God.

Personal Opinion - WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW! Sorry that was so teeny-bopper (and I'm not that age anymore :) ) but this book was amazing! The twists and turns and the growing of Martyr and Abby was wonderful. I really got into the story. They fought for what they believed in and Martyr grew so much. He was also so cute as he learned about different things like bleeding eggs (I know that doesn't make sense but it does if you read the book). This is a must read for any reader. I know there might be some who are skeptical because it deals with the cloning debate and the what-if a human was successfully cloned but it actually handles the issue well and is so good. I can only emphasise this so much. READ THIS BOOK!

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Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from Team Novel Teen. Team Novel Teen is a group of bloggers dedicated to spreading the word about clean teen fiction. Check out other posts about Replication: The Jason Experiment by Jill Williamson by clicking on the links above, and check out www.NovelTeen.com for more information about Team Novel Teen.

Links - Learn more about this book and the author here, Book's website, and find out your expiration date (something just for fun that goes with the book).

Buy - Amazon

Special Notes - This post is part of a blog tour for Replication. Check out the other blogs (some of which are also hosting giveaways).
ADD Librarian • Audacious Reader • The Book Fae • Books I Recommend • Book Nook 4 You • Bookworm Reading • Christian Bookshelf Reviews • Fiction Fire • Gillian Adams • Jill Williamson • Katie McCurdy • Kurly Katie's Ruminations • My Story Shelf • The Pen and Parchment • Rachelle Rea • SLY Games • Terri Harr

GIVEAWAY - Courtesy of the author, I am giving away ONE COPY of Replication: The Jason Experiment on this blog. All you have to do is become a follower, or subscribe to this blog, (if already do, don't worry about this step) and post a comment below about why you are interested in reading this book. One winner will be chosen a week from now (Fed. 5) from pulling a name from a hat (yes, I'm doing it the old fashioned way) and posted by 5 o'clock Central Time on the same day. Good luck and see you in a week.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

Happy Sunday

2012-01-29T13:00:00.000-06:00

Hello,

This week I am participating in a blog tour which is were a bunch of people get together and post on the same thing (in this case a book) on the same day. Well, it is set up that the day be tomorrow so this week's post is not until Monday. But come back and check it out. It is a good book and there going to be the first ever giveaway on this blog (details will be in a post). So read the post and enter the giveaway. And tell your friends. See you Monday the 30th.

The Dark Sea Annals: Sword in the Stars

2012-01-22T13:00:00.000-06:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4.5 Worms

Storyline - Alistair Coldhollow has changed his ways to follow the First One. Turning from a life of addiction and regret, he gazes upon the stars searching for the sword that will announce the prophesied hero, the Halfainin, that will save the world. A hero Alistair desperately needs. When the sword appears, he goes and tests many to find the Halfainin, but none pass. Falling into despair, he meets a woman running for her life who hands him a bundle containing a babe. After seeking help from an old friend, Abbageal, mystery, war, and love soon follow. But can Alistair receive forgiveness for his past deeds and the world of Myriad be saved from a sly tyrant trying to take the throne?

Author - Wayne Thomas Batson

Publisher - Living Ink Press

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - Alistair is addicted to Witchdrale but fights the hold it has on him. He also protects others, even to the danger to himself. Abbageal is kind and loving, and gives Alistair something that he has long sought. The villains are creepy, some of the creepiest villains I have ever read. They murder, torture, and raze whole villages, just to give an example of how evil they are.

Personal Opinion - One of the best books yet by Mr. Batson. His characters are so real and the story is so captivating. I got pulled into character's struggles and story without even noticing it happening. I loved the adventure and journey they went on. The land and inhabitants were creative and the Christian analogy of the story was beautifully done. Just beautiful. The villains of the story made my skin crawl and gave me the shivers. I have said this in a previous post but I will say it again, Mr. Batson is talented when it comes to villains. A must read for fantasy, adventure, and Christian readers. They won't be sorry.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://enterthedoorwithin.blogspot.com/

Special Notes - Book 2, The Errant King, is available now. Review to come.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

Trapped

2012-01-15T13:00:00.000-06:00

"The Day the Blizzard Started,
No One Knew that it was Going to Keep Snowing for a Week.
That for Those in its Path,
it Would Become not Just a Matter of Keeping Warm,
But of Staying Alive."

Bookworm's Ranking - 2 Worms

Storyline - When a blizzard strikes the small town Scotty lives in, he remains behind to help his friend on a project. But soon things become worse than they thought and becomes one of seven stranded at the school for days. Not long after, power slowly goes, heat slowly goes, food becomes scarce, and the snow is ever rising. Can they live through this? Or will they all be lost to the storm?

Author - Michael Northrop

Publisher - Scholastic

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - Hints at teens being together and other such crass stuff. Made some disrespectful comments concerning religion. Scotty helps his friends and turns to God for help. He also helps his friend and stands by them.

Personal Opinion - I didn't enjoy this book that much. Maybe because I felt that Scotty just told you what was happening or because of the characters hinting at being together or making jokes like that. I thought much of what was happening with the character didn't seem completely realistic for what was happening around them. Such as flirting with a girl when you have no power, no heat, and have to live on the second floor because the snow covered all the windows on the first floor. I did like how Scotty stands by his friends and how they became a bit more serious in the end. The adventure about the snow piling up did get more exciting but I still didn't get into this book.
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Awards - Spring 2011 Indie Next List selection, Barnes and Nobel "Must Read for Teens," 2012 TAYSHAS (Texas) High School Reading List selection, and some good reviews by several big name places.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://michaelnorthrop.net/?page_id=7

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

Best Books of 2011

2012-01-02T13:00:00.000-06:00

Here are the Best Books of 2011 (in my opinion) in each category.

Young Adults:
1. Hunter Brown and the Eye of Ends: Book 3 in the Codebearers Series by the Miller Brothers
2. Conspiracy 365: January by Gabrielle Lord
3. Isle of Swords by Wayne Thomas Batson
4. Wildfire Run by Dee Garretson
5. Theodore Boone: The Abduction by John Grisham
6. Taken: Book 1 in the Quest for the Truth series by Brock Eastman
7. TJ and the Time Stumblers: OOPS! by Bill Myers

Teens and Up:
1. Replication: The Jason Experiment by Jill William Son
2. By Darkness Hid: Book 1 in the Blood of Kings series by Jill Williamson
3. The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson
4. Hiding the Stranger Trilogy by Joan L. Kelly
5. Waking Rose by Regina Doman
6. Alienation: Book 2 in the CHAOS Trilogy by Jon S. Lewis
7. Sword in the Stars: Book 1 in the Dark Sea Annals by Wayne Thomas Batson
8. The Final Hour by Andrew Klavan
9. Human.4 by Mike A. Lancaster
10. Warrior: Book 2 in the Dragons of Starlight series by Bryan Davis
11. Masters and Slayers: Book 1 in the Tales of Starlight Series by Bryan Davis
12. How Huge the Night by Munn and Munn

Childrens:
1. The Dragon and Turtle Go on Safari by
2. God Gave Us the World by Lisa Bergren

Non-Fiction:
1. The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
2. Blind Hope by Kim Meeder and Laurie Sacher
3. Praying for Your Future Husband by Robin Jones Gunn and Tricia Goyer
4. Soul Surfer by Bethany Hamilton, Sheryl Berk, and Rick Bundschuh

Honorable Mentions:
(There isn't really an order to these)

All the Conspiracy 365 books (1-4)
Diviner: Book 3 in the Dragons of Starlight series by Bryan Davis
Raising Dragons: Book 1 in the Dragons in Our Midst series by Bryan Davis
To Darkness Fled: Book 2 in the Blood of Kings series by Jill Williamson
Love Inspired: The Christmas Child by Linda Goodnight
No Place Like Holmes by Jason Lethcoe
The Storyteller's Daughter by Cameron Dokey
The Merchant's Daughter by Melanie Dickerson
Howl Sage by Brock Eastman

What a good year of reading. There were many good books and I had a hard time ranking some. Many can be interchangeable with others. Most of these books have reviews here on Bookworm but a couple I just finished reading shortly before the year's end so reviews will be coming shortly. Total book count (excluding the two childrens books and the one I re-read)... 58! Well, looking forward to another good year here at Bookworm and I will have a post soon of books that I am most looking forward to in 2012.

Happy New Year!

Isle of Swords

2012-01-01T13:00:00.001-06:00

"Does the Legendary Treasure of Constantine

Lie in Unfathomed Depths, or was it

Hidden by a Mysterious Order of Monks

on an Uncharted Island?"

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - The fearsome pirate, Bartholomew Thorne, travels the sea, leaving destruction behind and causing fear in hearts of not only settlers but also pirates. No one crosses his path... Until Captain Declan Ross kills his second in command in an attempt to escape an island of Thorne's where they stopped to make repairs. While on the island, Anne, Captain Ross's daughter, finds an injured young man. They take him aboard but he doesn't remember his name or who he is. Captain Ross and his crew are on the run when they meet a strange monk with a treasure map tattooed on his back. But it isn't just any treasure but the biggest hoard of treasure in the world. As they journey to the island, the young man, called Cat, who they picked up, starts to have memories slowly come back. But they are not pleasant and cause fear in Cat. Captain Ross, Anne, Cat, and the crew of the William Wallace go on a daring adventure to find the monstrous treasure. But they are not the only ones searching. So is Bartholomew Thorne.

Author - Wayne Thomas Batson

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group - 14 and up

Content - Bad guys are really creepy (Mr. Batson is good at that). Anne disobeys her father once but soon sees the error. The crew are very giving and look after each other. Cat is a good person and fights and protects others.

Personal Opinion - An exciting, pirate book... and it is Christian! How many Christian books do you know that can make pirates the good guys? Really? The adventure was fun and filled with action. The characters grew in Jesus and fought against evil. A story well strung together. Treasure haunting is something every kid dreams about and these pirates are off to find it. But, there is more to the treasure than what meets the eye. Christians applaud the wonderful lesson of what the real treasure is in this book.

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Links - Learn more about the book and author here.

Special Notes - Book 2 is called Isle of Fire.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm.

The CHAOS Trilogy: Alienation

2011-12-26T13:00:00.001-06:00

"Earth's Last Line of Defense Against the Coming Alien Invasion is 16-Year-Old Surfer Colt McAlister.
But Before He Can Save the World,
He Has to Survive the Day."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Colt is getting ready to attend CHAOS but, soon, things start to come up that disrupt more of his life; a virus is spreading, an assassin is trying to kill him, and a family secret has just been discovered. As he attends CHAOS, Colt has to discover who he can trust and survive the assassination attempts. The risk of his family secret being discovered is on the rise, which could be deadly.

Author - Jon S. Lewis

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group - 13 or 14 and up

Content - Colt believes in God but his faith is not mentioned very much. His grandfather supports and protects him. Colt's friends stand by him and vise versa. Danielle is a computer hacker. Some criminals got accused of a crime they didn't commit and it sounds like the good guys planted the evidence.

Personal Opinion - This book was really good. The story moved nicely and the action and adventure was enticing. I was brought into the story quite well and was interested the whole time (I even understood what was going on without reading the first book [it might have helped that I read a bunch of reviews] but I still don't recommend doing that). I liked the short comic book to catch the reader up on what was happening before going into the first chapter. The story could have gone deeper in spots and expanded more on both of the two main plots of the story. In fact, I think this book would have been great if it had been split into two and the main plots separated. Other than that, it was a good book and I'm looking forward to the next one.

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Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Booksneeze.com.

Links - Learn more about the series and the author here.

Special Notes - Read Bookworm's review of book 1, Invasion, which came out last year, 2010. Book 3 is coming out next year.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by Bookworm.

Sages of Darkness: HowlSage

2011-12-18T13:00:00.000-06:00

"I Saw Things, Things of Pure Evil."

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

Storyline - Taylor defends the world from demons, like his father before him. It is a dangerous job, to be sure, even for someone who isn't 14 years old. But things get hairy when a HowlSage (kinda like a werewolf) lives past its first day. Taylor and his friend, Ike, and McGarret, his mentor, is having trouble finding out why that is, what is going on with their technology, and what happens if a HowlSage reaches maturity, which hasn't happened in so long it makes it hard to find out. Soon Taylor has to find a way to destroy the demon and find God in the process, or potentially have something worse happen that facing a mature HowlSage.

Author - Brock Eastman

Publisher - Destiny Image

Age Group - 13 and up

Content - Taylor is frustrated with God but learns how to trust and rely on Him again. The demons prepare for a ritual to call forth another demon (I found this a little creepy).

Personal Opinion - This was an interesting read but I think there was too much telling. I felt apart from the book through most of the beginning but it got better in certain parts towards the end. I thought the mixing of old legends, like using garlic or salt against a vampire and others legendary creatures, with the demon aspect was creative. Also, I found the new names for the demons creatures (HowlSage for werewolf) was very cool. I thought the book had good potential in story and characters but the straight-out telling that the story did to inform me, which was most of the beginning, kept me from really entering the story. I think it could have been better but I do want to see where the series goes so I will be reading the rest of the books.

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Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from Destiny Image.

Links - Learn more about this book and the author at: http://www.brockeastman.com/main/

Special Notes - Book 2, BlizzardSage, comes out next year. I don't know exact date.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

The Things a Brother Knows

2011-12-14T13:00:00.000-06:00

"Boaz is Back."

Bookworm's Ranking - 2 Worms

Storyline - When Levi's brother, Boaz, returns from his time with the Marines, he hopes everything will be fine again. But his brother locking himself in his room isn't what he expected or the strange sounds coming from the other side of the door. When Bo starts borrowing Levi's computer, he wonders what his older brother is up to. Then Boaz leaves again and Levi decides to follow even though he has no idea where they are going or why.

Author - Dana Reinhardt

Publisher - Wendy Lamb Books (part of Random House, Inc)

Age Group - 17 and up

Content - Levi doesn't know where he stands but he eventually makes a decision and does something about it. He tries to be there for his brother but it is very difficult. For more than the first half of the book, each chapter had some sort of inappropriate stuff (boy/girl thing) or just plain mention of privet parts at least once but usually more (not all of them were mentioned in that way but it wasn't necessary). Levi almost spent the night with a girl but she says doesn't want to (but why she let her shirt come off first is beyond me). Levi also get drunk once and one of his friends goes to a Catholic school but is one of the worst behaving characters.

Personal Opinion - Would have liked it more had it not taken so long to get to the main story (over half the book) and excessively toned back the inappropriate (hinting at teens having been together and stuff like that) junk and privet part mentioning. It was so much, something was brought up after going a few pages. I don't get what all that had to do with the story other than trying to make it realistic to teens but it didn't have to be that much or was necessary to the story or anything else for that matter. I found it just disturbing. When Levi was finally on the trip with his brother, it really toned back allot and I started to enjoy it. I even liked Levi's beginning romance until we got to the part where they almost slept together (was tempted to stop reading the book all together after that). But, the ending was really good and so beautiful. I would have loved the book for the ending and the growth of Levi in understanding his brother but I will never recommend this book for everything else that it contained.

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Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://www.danareinhardt.net/things.html

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

2011-12-04T13:00:00.000-06:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 3.5 Worms

Storyline - Harry always thought he was just a regular kid with an aunt and uncle and cousin who didn't like him. But, when a letter arives to Hogwarts, the truth comes out that he is really a wizard. As he makes friends for the first time, he has to deal with teachers who don't like him and getting use to the magic. When mysterious things start happening and the potential of his parents' murderer of coming back, Harry Potter will have do what he can to stop him.

Author - J. K. Rowling

Publisher - Scholastic

Age Group - 13 and up

Content - Harry and his friends stood up for each other and others how needed help but broke rules several times with no consequence (okay, there some consequences). Dumbldore, the wizard in charge of the school, had lots of good advice for Harry. Some adults where portarayed pretty dumb and Harry often wanted revenge on his cousin and other relatives.

Personal Opinion - I never read Harry Potter when I was young so this was my first exposer to the books (I've seen a few of the movies) and I thought it wasn't bad. Yes, Harry wants revenge and disobeys the rules a bunch but I have read worse. Yes, there is also magic but it isn't that bad either. The author told you much the info, which I find irritating usually, but I was pulled into the story well. I have this book at 3 Worms because I'm not sure I can make a complete decision on the book unless I read the others.

Awards - New York Times Best Seller,

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://www.jkrowling.com/

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Blood of Kings: From Darkness Won

2011-11-27T13:00:00.000-06:00

"Darkness Trembles"

Bookworm's Ranking - 4.5 Worms

Storyline - Achan and his army are finally marching to take back the kingdom. But, it is a bit of a distraction when Sparrow gets stormed and doesn't remember who she is. With battles and learning family secrets, Achan has his hands full without having to worry how he is going to turn back Darkness or how he and Sparrow could end up together. But in Caan's hands, anything is possible.

Author - Jill Williamson

Publisher - Marcher Lord Press

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - Achan learns some touchy family secrets and is tempted by a louse woman. Sparrow faces what she is afraid of and does what she can to help those injured or in danger. The way Darkness is faced is original and makes great sense.

Personal Opinion - It was good but I had trouble getting into the story for a while and have no idea why (would like to say it was because my mom read it first so I had to wait for the copy but that might not be what it is. Or is it?). The message within was wonderful but I am having trouble putting it into words at the moment. How the characters grew and fought for what the believed in was an example many of us needs to remember. I thought Achan would learn more about Caan than what was presented in the book and I had hoped for more on Gren but I still enjoyed the journey. A fantastic series. The worst part is it is now over. Pig snout.
Links - Learn more about the series and author at: http://jillwilliamson.wordpress.com/the-blood-of-kings/

Special Notes - Book 1 Review: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/05/blood-of-kings.html
Book 2 Review: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/10/blood-of-kings-to-darkness-fled.html

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The Merchant's Daughter

2011-11-20T13:00:00.000-06:00

"An Unthinkable Danger. An Unexpected Choice."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Annabel's family has shirked their duty for three years and now have to pay the price. When it is required that one member of her family has to work as a servant for the new lord, Ranulf le Wyse, for three years, she volunteers not just to make up for her families laziness but also to escape the bailiff's proposal. Ranulf is hoping to start again and escape his dead wife's betrayal. Never thinking he could ever love again, he is surprised when a servant girl begins to find her way into his guarded heart. Annabel also is surprised by feelings she thought she would never have for a man after being repulsed by the bailiff's advances. But when disaster strikes, will they be able to over come the obstacles and say "I love you"?

Author - Melanie Dickerson

Publisher - Zondervan

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - Annabel always wanted to read the Bible and learns how much God loves his children. Haunted by his scares and the betrayal of his first wife, Ranulf comes to find God's peace. The bailiff makes unwanted advances towards Annabel and tries to attack her but the descriptions are never graphic.

Personal Opinion - This was a good story but, for some reason, I didn't connect with the story and characters that much. You could see how the Beauty and the Beast is portrayed in the book and characters. Very well done. Annabel and Ranulf grew within God and learned how they could move past their hurt, being able to be happy and trust again. I do wish the only priest in the book hadn't been someone that the characters didn't look up to but they did mention that there were other kinds who weren't so negative about women. Definitely would recommend and will read the next book by this author, which, unfortunately, will be next year.
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Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from Zondervan through the Z Street Team.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://melaniedickerson.com/

Special Notes - Read the review of the previous book by this author, The Healer's Apprentice, go here: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/01/healers-apprentice.html

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com

Hiding the Stranger Trilogy

2011-11-13T13:00:00.000-06:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4.5 Worms

Storyline - Books 1-3 - When a young farm girl and her older siblings discover a boy who can't remember anything, not even his own name, they take him on to care for him and discover who he is. But things get strange when strange men come around looking for him. Fortunately, the boy has a few tricks up his sleeve too. To keep him safe, he goes to their cousin's home, where he starts to remember things, including his name Ben, but also is discovered again, making him flee. When he finally remembers, it will take all his ingenuity to get away from the kidnappers. But he can't do it alone.

Author - Joan L. Kelly

Publisher - Bezalel Books

Age Group - 13 or 14 and up

Content - The characters believe and talk about God on occasion. They make it clear that they trust and rely on Him. The boy, Ben, gives of himself without asking anything back and is willing to put himself in danger for others. Ben and a girl share a quick kiss.

Personal Opinion - I found myself pulled into this story right away and thought the descriptions and character development wonderful. A couple of technical things I would have liked to change but they weren't that bad. Also, I thought the characters and situations could have been built upon to lengthen and deepen the story and adventure. But you could make the argument that it is a good quality quick read, which would be good for some people. This is a great book and I don't know many Catholic books that are around so highly recommended.

Awards - Catholic Writers Guild Seal of Approval (not sure this would technically fall under award but oh well)

Links - Learn more about the story and author at: http://jlkellyshamrockstories.com/Home_Page.html

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Closed for the Season

2011-10-30T13:00:00.000-05:00

"The Weather-Beaten Sign on the Gate of the Magic Forest Says Closed for the Season"

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

Storyline - When Logan moves to a new town, he learns that the previous owner of the house his family has moved into was murdered there. The case was never solved. As he and his new friend look into the mystery, they come across a message which leads them into another mystery, one where money disappeared from the old theme park, The Magic Forest, which closed years before. It was believed the murdered woman stole the money but the boys don't think so. As they follow the clues, they wrestle with lies and scary individuals to finally find the truth.

Author - Mary Downing Hahn

Publisher - Sandpiper, Houghton Mifflin Publishing

Age Group - 12 and up

Content - No swearing but several times a character mentions that someone else does. One of the main things the book teaches is that you can't judge a book by the cover because the characters do not follow stereotypes. Logan disobeys his parents and then doesn't get punished for it too much (well the first time he does, it seems like the mom goes over board and the second mentions him getting lectured but it doesn't seem to do much of anything. The mom is actually portrayed as an un-understanding, controlling woman). The boys also steal something.

Personal Opinion - The book had a good story but it seemed disjointed sometimes and didn't flow very nice. The kids disobeyed a lot and, when the mom freaked out about it, you ended up not really liking her. Yet, they were being naughty but everyone else made it seem like not that big of a deal. But the mystery that the author came up with was good and so was the set up for it. I was thankful there wasn't any ghosts in it which I feared when I realized the author also writes ghost stories (not really a ghost story person). Nice book but won't recommend it too much.

Video - (Not exactly a trailer but cool none the less)

Awards - Edger Award for Best Juvenile Mystery

Links - Lean more about the book and author at:

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Blood of Kings: To Darkness Fled

2011-10-23T13:00:00.000-05:00

"Enter Darkness..."

Bookworm's Ranking - 5 Worms

Storyline - Achan and Vrell have entered Darkness and are still running for their lives. But as a price is put on their heads, Achan needs to learn decorum and how to be king but is distracted by a suspicion that Vrell is hiding something. Vrell is doing all she can to help Achan and keep her identity a secret but it is getting more dangerous each day. Proposals, battles, growth in Arman, and trials face them as they try to restore Er'Rets.

Author - Jill Williamson

Publisher - Marcher Lord Press

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - Lots of proposals, both by Achan and the women. Disgusting men think inappropriately about women. Achan learns much of Arman and giving his life to Him and trusting Him which was lovely. Vrell is always watching Achan's back and has to work throw her own deceit.

Personal Opinion - Enjoyed every page of it and then had to order book 3 not long after finishing this book (okay, it was the next day). Great how Achan comes to learn of Armon, decorum (which can be a funny process to behold), and how he wants to be when he is king. He is also kind to others such as strays and wants no one to suffer on account of him. Romance also begins to spark which is wonderful and well put together. The characters really grow and come to life. Loved it and can't wait to see how it will all be wrapped up (that will also be sad because then it will be over). Well, can't have everything.

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Awards - 2011 Christy Award in the Visionary category.

Links - Learn more about the series and author at: http://jillwilliamson.wordpress.com/the-blood-of-kings/

Other books: Book 1 review - http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/05/blood-of-kings.html
Book 3 review - Coming Soon

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Conspiracy 365

2011-10-16T13:45:00.000-05:00

Bookworms Rating - 4 Worms

Storyline - Book 1-4 - January, February, March, April - It all starts on New Years Eve when an old man Cal has never met, or seen, before tells him that his father was murdered and someone was going to be coming after him for the next year. After that, one thing after another almost kills Cal until he is eventually driven from his home and family. As Cal tries to piece together the mystery his father told about before his illness and death, he must also survive the coming attacks. What ever and where ever they come. As the months continue, he has to stay hidden and secretive to stay alive. Will he make it and find the secret his father found?

Author - Gabrielle Lord

Age Group - 12 and up

Content - Cal supports and cares for his mother and doesn't want to add any burdens to her but hides important information and events from his mother (he learns this as well but a little too late). . He loves his sister, talks to her, and is good to her. Even though he doesn't like his uncle, he tries to help him once. In book 2, he tries to save someone who is after him from death and starts to see his uncle in a new light. But, Cal does some irresponsible things several times throughout the series. He once meets someone in a park alone at night (but quickly learns that was a mistake). He also calls his uncle a liar and a jerk. He describes an angel as "stinking" (but, from the situation he's in at that moment, I can kinda understand why he used that description) and his father didn't really follow any one religion but said "life was his religion". In book 2, he follows a girl into a house as she steals something (she says it is hers but still), Boges forges his mum's signature, and several times Cal steals. Not just food but others things (I wont go over them because it will spoil it) and once attacks a policeman. There is also some language

Personal Opinion - I found this book entertaining, fast moving, and engaging. Even though this book was under 200 pages, it did a wonderful job of describing the characters, emotions, events, past events, what something looked like, ect. The endings are very fun, being in a way I enjoy (cliffhanger). But, at least in the first book, it was a little choppy when, in the middle of a chapter, it updated the time it was during that day which interrupted the story too much. An interesting gimmick but took a book to get use to. I wish the character didn't steal so much and used less bad language (but I would prefer no fowel language. Besides, compared to some books I have read, this one has very little) but the character can still grow and come to find new things. Even though his father didn't follow any one religion, there wasn't any religious bashing which was also nice. An exciting series so far but I think I need to wait to see how it ends before recommending it.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://www.conspiracy365.com/ .

Special Notes - Each month during the year 2010, a new book in the series came out to correspond with that month. There are 12 books total.

Originally posted on 4/03/2011 on book one. Re-posted on 4/10/2011 with book 2. Updated on 10/16/2011 for books 3 and 4.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

2011-10-09T13:00:00.000-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 2 Worms

Storyline - After getting in trouble at his school on the Spokane Reservation, Junior decided that he wants to go to school in Reardan, a white school in the town 22 miles away, to try to make a better life for himself. During his freshman year, he deals with racism, crushes, the hate of his tribe, and loses as he tries to find his way and a place to belong and acceptance.

Author - Sherman Alexie

Publisher - Little, Brown and Company

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - Had some good lessons about fighting for yourself, getting out of bad situations, and forgiveness. He also came to see what revenge really was and showed that you have to work hard to make a better life for yourself but it is what is best in the end. There was also examples about what racisim looked like and how cruel and wrong it can be. But the book also had lots of sexual coments, an insolting comment about Christianity and other Christian religion negatives, and bad language. He blamed God for bad things that were happening, made fun of God, and the only time he thanked God was for something gross. I'm not asking for the character to become Christian but some respect would have been nice. Said he could kill himself and some others but was very depressed at the time from some precious people dying in his life.

Personal Opinion - Even though there were parts I liked, I would hesitate recommending this book because of some of the content within. I would have liked the book more if there had been less sexual content and the negative comments about Christianity hadn't been there but I really enjoyed the snappy comebacks that Junior came up with and the book leaving you with hope that he will make a better life for himself unlike some of the others in his tribe. At times, there was a lot of telling instead of showing in the book but it is in diary format so that works. The way it portrayed how bad drunkenness is and what it can do to you which had a sobering affect. If this is what it is truly like in school systems and for Native Americans, oh boy, it is sad.

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Awards - 2007 National Book Award, 2008 Boston-Globe Horn Book Award, 2009 International Book on Books for Young People Sweden - Peter Pan Prize, 2010 California Young Reader Medal, and Finalis for the 2007 Los Angeles Times Book Prize. It has also been on the New York Times Best Seller List.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://www.fallsapart.com/the_absolutely_true_diary_of_a_part_time_indian (P.S. This is the only book by this author that is for young adults)

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TJ and the Time Stublers: OOPS!

2011-10-02T13:00:00.000-05:00

"Any Second TJ Finkelstein Hopes Her Life Will Return to Normal. And it could, Except For... "

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Book 3 - TJ is swamped with two future boys, Tuna and Herby, hanging around that no one else can see, surviving school, and not embarrassing herself (but the future boys make that difficult for her). But as a gadget goes wrong and the famous TV star at her school comes after her, it will take everything she's got to think kindly of others.

Author - Bill Myers

Publisher - Tyndale Publishers

Age Group - 10 and up

Content - TJ thinks badly of others but learns to think about them as God does. Lots of bullies being... Well... Bullies.

Personal Opinion - This book was very funny and kept me laughing at the antics and the silliness throughout. Using LARGE letting at times to show the emotions and the funny jokes such as when you could hear peoples' thoughts for the geeks or jocks, you would think that those would be the thoughts of those characters but at the same time they were funny and made you laugh. Just the craziness happening to the main character was enough to make me giggle. The story was simple but this book is meant for a younger age group than I am used to reading so I have to keep that in mind. It was clean, fun, and had good message of God, about not only not saying mean things about others but even not thinking them. This book would be even better with a discussion guide to go deeper into the lesson that was emphasized in it and going a tad deeper into the characters. Enjoyable book and I am interested in reading the others.

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Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from Tyndale Blogger Network.

Links - Learn more about the series and author at: http://www.billmyers.com/BillMyersKids/index.html

Special Notes - This is the third book in the series but I have not read books 1 and 2 so I do not have a review for them.

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Tales of Starlight Series: Masters and Slayers

2011-09-25T13:00:00.000-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Book 1 - Adrian Masters has believed that dragons kidnapped people from his planet and made slaves of them elsewhere for his whole life like his mother and father and other believers have. When a chance to find the portal to the dragon world comes, he jumps to the task. Unfortunately, he has to work with an opponent, Marcelle, who caries painful memories and a hot temper. Arriving in the dragon world, they must blend in and learn how things work to figure out a way to rescue the people. But when one of them makes a terrible mistake, they are separated and death is the promise.

Author - Bryan Davis

Publisher - Living Ink Press

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - Adrian looks out for those he loves and who are weaker. Even though Marcelle can frustrate him, he cares about her and protects her. Marcelle has a hot temper but she comes to realize that and does what she can to calm down. Her family was hurt when she was young and has wanted revenge on the one who had caused it. The dragons force the humans to "breed" to get more workers and some are treated violently and burned.

Personal Opinion - Good but had trouble connecting with it like I do other books from this author. Also, the times with Jason, Adrian's younger brother, in it seemed to lack info but that might be because Starlighter, book one in the Dragons of Starlight series, is Jason and Koren's story so the info and the ability to connect with him has been done elsewhere. I did like it though and thought it brought up some good stuff to think about and promote in life. I really liked how the characters grew and how hard they worked for something better and fought for what they believed in. I look forward to reading The Third Starlighter, book 2 of this series.

Video - This isn't a book trailer but was a song made using a poem from the book.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://www.mastersandslayers.com/

Special Notes - Book 2, The Third Starlighter, out later this year.

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Attracted to Fire

2011-09-18T11:43:00.000-05:00

"Only One Assignment Stands Between Special Agent Meghan Connors and Her Dream of Protecting the President "

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

Storyline - Meghan is assigned to protect the Vice President's addicted daughter, Lindsay as she recovers at a friend's ranch, The Dancen' Dust. Unfortunately, the agent heading the the team, Ash Zinders, is known to dislike women agents. But, as attraction between the two builds, so does the threats and dangers to the VP's daughter. People begin to die and it is up to Meghan and Ash to stop him before he gets their protectee.

Author - DiAnn Mills

Publisher - Tyndale Publishing

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - The characters believe in God but it doesn't have as much faith stuff as other Christian books do. Some character do come closer to God/convert but it is very light. Meghan and Ash fight for their protectee's life and tries to do what is right.

Personal Opinion - I only found this book to be okay. I didn't get into it like I do other books. I found the character/story development all lacking and the descriptions weren't very good. The main characters spend very little time with other characters in the book (you don't even get to hear a conversation between Meghan and Lindsay for several days after being on the ranch yet you hear that they have talked before then). I wish more had been discussed about the characters' past such as you know Meghan had been engaged but broke it off and I'm still unsure what happened and you also know that she wants to talk to her mom about it but when she does it is less then a page long. There was a bit more for Ash and much more for Lindsay but I just wasn't that pleased with the back stories.The mystery wasn't very good either. The reader don't really get to guess or suspect anyone except who the main bad guy's accomplice might be because Lindsey knows who it is and tells. Sure, it was great to see her fighting back but it left very little mystery. The story had a good concept but I like more mystery in my books and would have liked more about God. But, I do know the author has won awards for her books so I might try an older one sometime.

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Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from Tyndale Blog Network.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://www.diannmills.com/

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Dragons of Starlight: Diviner

2011-09-04T13:00:00.045-05:00

"The Mysteries Unfold"

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Book 3 - Jason and his father are returning to the Southlands when they meet up with Elyssa but soon after one of them is kidnapped by a dragon and must be rescued before they are executed. Koren, mean while, learns more about Exudose and tries to make the slaves work for there freedom but find that having someone see the truth and fight for something is harder than it sounds. As they all learn lessons about what slavery and freedom really is, things about themselves, and turning more to the Creator, a new threat comes that could destroy all of human kind, but not just on Dracon but Major Four as well.

Author - Bryan Davis

Publisher - Zondervan

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - The characters like Koren, Jason, and Elyssa learn some great lessons about the Creator, sacrifice, and seeing themselves as they are but loving who they are too. They also learn not be angry with themselves because they had been blind before to the world and concentrated on themselves. I was personally uncomfortable with one of the dragons saying he remade a human and infusing it with its old spirit. That was just a bit strange.

Personal Opinion - Enjoyable book with good lessons and character development in faith and truth. The characters grew wonderfully in the Creator and became wonderful examples for others in giving of themselves, following the Code, and trying to do the right thing. I like Bryan Davis's books but sometimes they get a little strange for me, as well. He has some great story ideas but, as the books go on, they get some different stuff in them such as what I mentioned in 'content'. Even though this weird with me, I'm going to be reading the final book, Liberator, when it comes out in 2012 and looking forward to how it all comes together and having secrets revealed.

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from Zondervan through the Z Street Team.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://dragonsinourmidst.blogspot.com/

Special Notes - You can read my review of books 1 and 2 at: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/02/dragons-of-starlight.html

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Wildfire Run

2011-08-28T13:00:00.042-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - When Luke, the son of the President of the United States, is on vacation at Camp David with his friend and father, a wildfire begins eating up the forest and is heading right to them. But when an accident strikes, Luke and his friends, Theo and Callie, are own their own to survive and escape before the fire claims the camp with them still inside.

Author - Dee Garretson

Publisher - Harper, an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers

Age Group - 12 or 13 and up

Content - Even though the characters were at odds with each other at first, they came to support one another and tried to help those who were hurt. The came to see what was important and really grew up. Luke even put others before himself when everyone wanted him to just go and save himself because he was the President's son.

Personal Opinion - This was an enjoyable book which I was able to read in just two days. There were some unbelievable stuff that happened but it was an exciting book with lots of action and a fire coming around every corner which made the characters work together to find a way out of the 'secure' camp. The ingenuity of the characters was great and supported imagination and inventiveness. I wish the ending had been a little longer and had more to the adjustment after the fire had been covered because it didn't seem like enough for them to recover but perhaps you are just suppose to see them start to come around from the terror. Anyways, good book and I might look into the new book this author has coming out.

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Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://deegarretson.wordpress.com/

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River of Time: Torrent

2011-08-21T13:00:00.086-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 3.5 Worms

Storyline - Book 3 - Returning to medieval times once again, they find it has been longer than they wished since they departed their men but they are happy to see each other again and quickly celebrate. But that happiness soon ends when an opportunity comes to save Fortino, Marcello's brother, who was captured by Firenze. Unfortunately, that cost for Fortino is Gabi and Lia. They devise a plan to rescue him, the Bettarini women as bait. When things go wrong, Gabriella finds herself potentially being forced into marriage with someone she does not love. Can she escape and return to Marcello? And will she be able to convince her family to stay with everything life threatening that has happened and the plague only a few years away?

Author - Lisa Bergren

Publisher - David C. Cook

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - All of the character defend each other and try to save others even at the cost of themselves. Gabriella and Lia are willing to put themselves at risk to save Marcello's brother and Gabi is willing to be with the one she loves and to protect others from harm. A priest had some good advice in the book. There was some sexual stuff from the bad guys and Gabriella hinted at being together before marriage.

Personal Opinion - It was good but I was disappointed about the representation of the priest in the story. He was excommunicated and performing duties that he could no longer do and which would not be recognized by the church, such as marriage. Considering that Marcello is suppose to be the guy who really follows his faith and loves God, this was strange that he was okay with it and would be going along with it. When you add this to the one time Marcello complained about the Pope and one man said that his father was a priest, I wasn't very happy. I will not deny that there was abuses with in the church but that is still not an accurate picture of the Catholic faith. There were good along with bad. St. Catherine of Sienna, who was born is Sienna, the main city the characters in this book was loyal to, was a Catholic, called the Pope back to Italy, did good for other people, and settled disputes. As a family member pointed out, though, in the situation where the priest was administrating at the wedding, it could be argued that it was an extreme circumstance and it was going to be made valid later but I still see holes from what I read about excommunication. Another thing that I wish had been different in the book was Gabi's faith walk. I thought she would grow more in her faith since she use to not go to church except on Christmas and Easter and didn't really pray. All that happened was she prayed a bit more. It didn't seem that she grew that much in her faith or came to any big connection with God. This was all unfortunate because it was an exciting book with some fun time travel. But I will hesitate in recommending this series from here on out because of the excommunicated priest and his doing things he does not have the authority to do. If the view of Catholicism had been balanced and the priest had been faithful to his superiors, no matter their decision, it would have been better for me.

Video - (to come)

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the author.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://lisatawnbergren.com/ , you can also read my review of the first two books here: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/07/river-of-time-series.html

Special Notes - Book releases September 1, 2011. I got the info on St. Catherine of Sienna at http://www.piercedhearts.org/theology_heart/life_saints/catherine_siena.htm

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Quest for the Truth: Taken

2011-08-14T13:24:00.079-05:00

"Five-Four-Three-Two-One!

We're Out of Here!"

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Book 1 - After Oliver, Tiffany, Mason, and Austin's parents are kidnapped by the Ubel who believes they know where to find the Ursprung, the origin of mankind, which has been lost and sot after for generations, it is up to them to discover where they were going and what they were up to. It is a race to the prize. But they must make a stop for repairs as well as find their parents' partner. Waylaid on a planet, the two younger Wikks have a run in with strange natives whose skin is blue. And intent on keeping them on their planet.

Author - Brock Eastman

Publisher - P & R Publishing

Age Group - 13 (give or take) and up

Content - The kids care about one another but they do hide a lot and fight with each other often. Oliver (the oldest) wants to do the right thing like his parents taught him to and use the skills he got from the Academy. Each of them (except one) thinks highly of themselves but I think this is an issue among the siblings that will be covered later.

Personal Opinion - Good start to the series but I wish it had gone deeper into the story of what the parents were after and what Ursprung was. Also, I wanted to go deeper into the kids' motives, wants, and feelings. It seemed they went from one feeling to the next too quickly without enough happening to change those feelings except for taking a deep breath. But then you would think he/she would ruminate about it more in his/her mind or it would keep coming up. But, I see much promise for this series and it prepares you for what happens next (by the way, I don't know what that is but I want to find out). I enjoyed the sci-fi parts of the story like the ships that travel from one planet to another, what the character's e-reader look like (I want one), and the mysterious blue people. This book promises a great futuristic adventure building upon the mysteries of man's origin, the Alliance and how it started, and multiple planets with different life forms (kinda like in Star Wars). Much truth is still to be found and many exciting things are promised. Having left me with wanting to know what happens next, I for one will be getting book 2. Just have to find out when that one will be out.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://thequestfortruthbooks.blogspot.com/ and http://www.brockeastman.com/

Special Notes - Won this copy on the publisher's website. It is also signed, which I didn't realize until I got it. You can order signed copies off the author's site.

Updated - December 28, 2011

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Stained Glass Hearts

2011-08-13T15:33:00.001-05:00

"Seeing Life From a Broken Perspective"

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

About - Life is tough, leaving you broken and wanting. But, if you shine some light through the broken pieces of your heart, they are like stained glass. You can find light in many things, be it books, art, poetry, or nature, you just have to find it and accept yourself for who you are, even broken. And God can make it beautiful.

Author - Patsy Clairmont

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group - 16 and up (but would be appreciated by an older age group)

Content - There were stories to show the beauty all in the world and a section at the end of every chapter called the Art Gallery that had picture, poetry, scripture, and/or music suggestions to further the point.

Personal Opinion - Good but could have been better. There were good stories throughout that were interesting but not much advise on how to incorporate this stuff and view it in your own life. It was mostly telling you to see the beauty in everything and even things broken, like stained glass, can be beautiful when put together and looked at and have light shinning through it but very little advise on how to go about doing that. Certain chapters might mean more to some people than others because they have an interest in that particular thing. I liked the "book" chapter because I like books but some might like the chapters about "nature" (I like this one too) or the "poetry" or one of the others more. The last few chapters did seem a bit more helpful in a way and brought the books concept together better than the other chapters. I wish, though, that there had been an epilogue to bring all the information together. It was good but didn't speak to me as much as others have. Perhaps fans of Patsy Clairmont might like it more.

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Booksneeze.com.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://www.patsyclairmont.com/

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Destruction Series: Imperial Hostage

2011-08-07T20:28:00.043-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 1Worms

Storyline -Book 1 - "From the moment 12-year-old Prince Erechtheus docks in Poseidia, capital of the Empire, to be a hostage for 13 years, nothing in his life is easy - or safe. An unexpected and foreboding prophecy, uttered by a blind seer, puts the prince immediately in the crosshairs of Al-Jinn, the powerful and paranoid High Priest from the Temple of Bel. Only last minute intervention from Kul-Kan, High Priest of the rival Temple of One, saves the prince from a gruesome fate. Erech gains exceptional fighting skills and an understanding of the natural world as he matures, but he suffers a series of crippling, heart-breaking losses - most as a result of the many attempts on his life. At the twilight of his captivity as a hostage, the 25-year-old prince encounters one last trial, a trial that could very well lead to war between his native land and the Empire."
(Took this from the back of the book)

Author - Phil Cantril

Publisher - Journalstone

Age Group - 17 and up

Content - The good characters help Erech out a lot and looked out for him as attempts on his life was made. One even helped him learn to fight to protect himself. Unfortunately, this book had a lot of stuff that contradicted what I believe such as saying there is no God and we are all connected. Once when the prince proclaimed something as a miracle, someone said there are no miracles and it was just science. And this is from the good guys. The bad guys believed in a god and were very creepy. There was also some sexual content that made me uncomfortable but it was mostly from the bad guys but about two things from the good guys. I don't believe that it is natural for two men to be together and yet two from the good guys were. It was strange how the the good guys said we are all connected and yet they had priests and ceremonies and had spirits.

Personal Opinion - Creeped me out in first chapter and didn't go away. It didn't help I miss read the back and thought it was something other than what it was (also for some reason I thought this was a young adult book, probably because the main characters are like 12 when the book starts). The book taught stuff I don't believe are true such as the good temple that saved the main character didn't believe in a god, they actually say there is no God and we are all united as one, and the guys who did believe in a god were evil and gross. The bad guys also used words and phrases that I am familiar with my own religion so that made it uncomfortable. There was some good behaving characters who did good things, knew right from wrong, and protected and cared for someone who couldn't protect themselves but it wasn't enough. They also kept harping on the bad thing that happened at the temple to the main character and it was made clear what happened with this word they used in a later chapter (I like to think of this blog as PG-13 if not PG so I wont repeat it). This book upset me so much that, even though at first, because I won the book through a giveaway, I tried to force myself to read it, but couldn't do it any more. Didn't even make it to 100 pages before decided to just stop reading it. There are too many books I want to read that I know I will like more than this one to spend time on it since I wasn't enjoying it. Did learn one thing though; be careful of the giveaways you enter.
Disclaimer - I received this book for free from Goodreads First Reads.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at the publisher's website at: http://journal-store.com/fiction/imperial-hostage-book-1-of-the-destruction-series/

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How Huge the Night

2011-07-31T12:17:00.078-05:00

"When Had God Ever Stopped a War Because a Teenager Asked Him To?"

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Julien doesn't want to live in his dad's old, small home town. And he doesn't want to board the Jewish boy, Benjamin, that his parents took in. All he wants it to play soccer, be excepted at his new school, and go home to Paris. What is the big deal? The war wasn't going to come to France with their great army protecting them. But, as the war moves closer to his new home and two young refugees from Austria show up, Julien has to make some big decisions and, as his world changes, he has to see what God wants him to do and his will not only for himself but others.

Author - Heather Munn and Lydia Munn

Publisher - Kregel Publishing

Age Group - 14 or 15 and up

Content - Julien learned a lot about God, forgiveness, and love. He also wanted to protect others against opposition against them because of race or religion. I really liked the parts when he saw the truth about himself and want to change and then does. Some people are not willing to change or have excuses about not changing. This was refreshing and a wonderful example for others.

Personal Opinion - Good book. I really liked it. The only things that bothered me were technical aspects within the book, such as when the word "he" is used to start every sentence in a paragraph. I also wish there had been more on Nina and mentioned the sister more because there were several times that I forgot Julien had a sister because she didn't show up where I would expect her to be at least mentioned. Lists were also given to show what the character was doing from a day to day bases. This should how things changed from before the war affected them to how it changed everything but I don't think it was the best way to relay the information. The only other thing I wish there had been was a guide in the back of the book on the French words. Sometimes they would use a word and I would forget what it meant from when they said it earlier in the book. I like how the main character was portrayed and developed in this book. Main characters are sometimes seen as bigger or better than the other character, somehow more right or better. But, in this book, the main character is the one who has lots to learn and is even shown the error of his ways by those who might surprise you. It was a refreshing take, more human like or real is perhaps a better word. It was such a moving story about WWII and the people who lived through it. It shows persecution and how the war affected different people. I will definitely read next book by the authors. I will also recommend it to friends and family but I see why some people might not be able to read it because of how much they heard, or experienced, during the time it was happening. It could bring back memories of those who lived it (there really wasn't anything graphically described but there was enough to give an idea of what happened and could bring back memories). The book had a sobering affect on me and what happened in WWII.

Video -

Links - Learn more about the book and authors at:

Special Notes - Apparently there will be another book. Don't know if there will be any characters from this book to that one but it will take place during WWII.

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Young Samuria: The Way of the Warrior

2011-07-24T17:05:00.066-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 2 Worms

Storyline - Book 1 - In 1611, Jack Fletcher is on a voyage with his father to find the Japanese and trade with them. But when ninja assassins attack the wounded ship, everyone on board is killed except Jack who is rescued by a Japanese family and then adopted by a samurai. Not understanding the language or customs is difficult but, as he is learning, Jack also starts to pick up the bokken (a wooden version of the katana) and gets attacked again by the ninja who killed his father. Eventually, he is take to a samurai school to learn the Way of the Warrior. As he's there, he has to over come people who resent him because he is not Japanese, learns Bushido, and must defend the school's honor.

Author - Chris Bradford

Publisher - Disney Press

Age Group - 12 or 13 and up

Content - There were so many honorable lessons in this book (one of them being honor). The students would talk to the teachers and learn from them and one of the teachers, Sensei Yamada, was shown to be wise and very helpful (he had the best advise). This Sensei also told Jack not to seek revenge and that one day the ninja who killed his father would pay for what he's done, even if it has to be in the next life. Forgiveness was a big thing among the Japanese and apologies were seen as taking responsibility for ones actions. A student told the truth once to help Jack when he got in trouble because of another student, putting himself in trouble with the bully as well. Another student told the truth to give Jack a honor that he was going to give up to help him. Bushido, or Way of the Warrior, is very interesting. It consists of rectitude, courage, benevolence, respect, honesty, honor, and loyalty (I took this right out of the book but can't remember the page number). These are all good things to have and support and, if everyone did them, I think our world would be a better place. The book also showed that girls are tough and gave a good example of a strong girl who was also a samurai (did anyone else know girls could be samurai back then?). Unfortunately for all the good things in this book, it was very tit-for-tat with negative behavior or happenings. A fellow student of Jack's constantly picked on him so when the bully got in trouble, Jack and his friends enjoyed his predicament. One of the characters you are supposed to like gets drunk once, even though he knows not to. God's name was used in vain once (if I remember correctly) and Jack told someone to go to h***. Jack also lied a couple times to keep something safe and to help out a friend. A friend tried to kill himself but Jack saves him and talks some sense into him. Some things that might make others uncomfortable but I saw more as historical stuff that was a lot of killing, the mention of ritual suicide, and Buddha was mentioned on occasion (there was a hall called Buddha Hall and a monk said "even Buddha will wait"). But, my biggest problem with the book was that it painted the Catholic faith in a bad light. I found it very insulting how it was depicted and, if the author tried at all to redeem the look he gave it, it didn't even become lukewarm. More details about this in the 'Personal Opinion' section because this is getting a little long.

Personal Opinion - I would have really enjoyed this book if not for my faith being put in such a bad light which kind of ruined it for me. First, a sailor called a Jesuit a devil and someone said that the Catholics could have "poisoned the minds of" the native Japanese so then, since the sailors were Protestant, they might be killed for being heretics. When Jack meets a priest, he is very insulting to Jack because he is a Protestant and English (the priest was Portuguese. There was some sort of conflict between the two countries at the time I guess). The priest was made out to be not a very great character and kept you second guessing what the man's motives were as he started being kind to Jack. Also, when the priest kissed a cross once, it was called a talisman. Now, there have been Catholics who have made mistakes because we are still human and, also, hostility between Portuguese and English and Protestants and Catholics might have been true during that time period, but it being the only example of Catholics is insulting and misleading. Not all Catholics are like that and it's not fair how that is how they are portrayed. The book showed even two sides of the samurai and the Japanese people but didn't even give Catholics a fighting chance. It is unfortunate how my faith was depicted because Chris Bradford is a good writer. He kept the story going well without losing any details but it didn't drag either. The 'Pronunciation Guide' in the back was very helpful in understanding Japanese words and one of the best I had ever used (in fact I learned a few with the book and I now how to speak Japanese a little. Whether I pronounce them right is another matter. A little interested in learning that language now but that is besides the point). The characters are diverse and interesting, too. You can understand how they feel and could identify with them. But, because of how my faith was shown in the book, it's because of this, and this alone, that will probably keep me from reading the rest of the books in this series. And keep me from recommending it. I could have over looked everything else, but this.

Video -

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://www.youngsamurai.com/ .

Awards - On the author's web site it says the series is an award winner but I can't find exactly what awards they have won.

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The Homelander Series: The Final Hour

2011-07-17T13:59:00.000-05:00

"You're Not Alone. You're Never Alone"
Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Charlie is in jail and waiting word from one of the people who put him in the Homelanders to uncover their secrets. Soon, he hears that all the Homelanders are in custody except for Prince, the leader of the terrorist group. Unfortunately, there is nothing they can do to clear Charlie's name of murder and thus have his sentence revoked. While trying to survive prison and find a legal way out, a memory comes back to him which reveals that the danger of the Homelanders is far from over. Desperate to reach someone and stop this final attack, Charlie has to make a major decision in order to save the US from another devastating attack but it could cost him his life and freedom. How far is he willing to go to save the country he loves and will he even be able to succeed in preventing Prince from his final plan?

Author - Andrew Klavan

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - Charlie just wants to do the right thing even though sometimes it is hard to do it or see what is the right decision. He makes a great observation on how easy it is to make a choice from a safe place and not when you are in the middle of it. He is also willing to place everything on the line, his life and freedom, to save countless people who are in danger. I loved how he pointed out it was not his duty to judge or hate the bad guys, it is to stop them. I think so many people are taught, or at least think it is okay, to be angry, or hate, someone who is bad or someone they don't like so the example in this books in an encouraging thing to read and gives hope that it might teach others how to see the enemies of life.

Personal Opinion - What a good book and great ending to the series which I have been following since the first book, The Last Thing I Remember, came out in 2008. It was exciting and encouraging and a great wrap up for the series. A good series for teen, espessially those who like action, things blowing up, and lots of danger. Girls will enjoy the books too. The characters were nicly developed with different personalities and the storyline is new and exciting. The author has a nack for being able to carry on a story well. A couple of time I thought, "Where are they going to be able to go from here?" then, several pages later, I go, "Oh. That's how." There is one little thing I wish I had seen differently about the ending but, because I don't want to give it away (it is the ending part of the ending) that I can't really say it without potentially spoiling it. Part of me would like to re-read the series, starting at the beginning and seeing how it all goes now from start to finish but some more time should go by before I do that.

Video -

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Booksneeze.com.

Links - Learn more about the books and the author at: http://www.thehomelanders.com/

Special Notes - Check out my review of the previous three books here: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2010/11/homelanders-series.html

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Theodore Boone: The Abduction

2011-07-17T13:30:00.011-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - When April, Theo's best friend, disappears, he starts investigating and searching different areas of town with the help of friends in hopes of locating her. But as time goes on, the stakes get higher and April seems to be slipping more and more from their reach. Will they find her? And who is Leeper, a man convicted of kidnapping who just escaped from prison and has been seen within town? Did he take her like everyone thinks?

Author - John Gresham

Publisher - Dutton Children's Books: And Imprint of Penguin Group (USA) Inc.

Age Group - 12 or 13 and up

Content - Theo searches for his friend diligently even when others are giving up. Unfortunately, he tells a big lie to his parents and doesn't even get a small lecture about it. He lies a few other times too. On a couple of other occasions, he also, technically, listens to a cop who is being unreasonable and seems to like throwing his weight around, but still gets done what he wants to do. One time it was going somewhere the cop told him not to go so, instead, he heads somewhere else and watches the area he is not permitted to go.

Personal Opinion - The book was pretty good. Because of the cover, I kept waiting for Theo to go somewhere alone at night but he never did which I was thankful for. Too smart for that I guess. One of my favorite parts, besides the exciting and mysterious mystery of the missing April, was the funny spot in middle of the book which broke up the tense situation. The story was well developed and the mystery progressed well, making you wonder what was going to and what did happen to his friend. Wondering if she was okay and if they would find her in time. Wished it had developed some side characters more, especially one boy because of how much this he was in the story, and had toned back on the lying. This book will interest more readers than just those who want to be lawyers with the exciting storyline it promises. The book leaves you with a hint of a third book, which, perhaps, will continue the mystery of the first book (maybe I shouldn't have said that. Gave too much away perhaps?).

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Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://www.theodoreboone.com/

Special Notes - Another book about Theodore Boone was published last year (you do not have to read that one to understand this one). You can read my review here: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2010/09/theodore-boone-kid-lawyer.html

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Christy Awards

2011-07-12T13:59:00.000-05:00

Being a Christian Reviewing blog, and loving Christian fiction, I have been excited about the Christy Awards since I was heard who was nominated a couple of months ago. I have heard and/or read several of the books that were up for the award. The ceremony to announce the winners was last night (I was there via Internet :). There was a link where you could read post by host and others watching only and hear what was going on at the dinner.) and thought I would share with you the winners. I'll give you a link so you can see who was nominated and who won for yourself. Perhaps you will also find something interesting to read with the stamp of good Christian fiction attached to it. Enjoy.

http://www.christyawards.com/ca_new/index.php?option=com_content&view=section&layout=blog&id=9&Itemid=56

P.S. Snagged the picture of the award of the Christy Awards website under Resources under Downloads.

River of Time Series

2011-07-10T13:31:00.086-05:00

"What do You do When Your Knight in Shining Armor Lives, Literally, in a Different World?" - Waterfall

"What if You not Only Fell Back Through Time... But Fell in Love, Too?" - Cascade

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Book 1 - Waterfall - Gabi, her sister Lia, and their mom are going to be spending the summer in Italy. Unfortunately, it will be on a dig site and majorly laking in cute guys. But when Gabi accidentally gets transferred to the 14th century, she will have to figure out the customs of the time and find her sister who seems to have not been transferred with her. As battles are fought and politics flare, she will have to find a way to stay alive and get home. And not fall for the handsome, unavailable, prince, Marcello.
Book 2 - Cascade - The girls are back, with their mother in tow, but it hasn't gotten any easier in Italy. There are still land struggles and widows trying to make it on their own. When the Plague potentially hits, things spiral out of control and it will take everything the girls, and guys, got to fight off the Firenze. Will they make it through this again? Will the idea of trying to save their father from death make the girls leave the 14th century one more time?

Author - Lisa T. Bergren

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - Marcello wants to protect and honor his family. The men (at least the good ones) are very respectful of women and have many other admirable qualities such as defending those under their protection, assisting those who need a helping hand, and ready to sacrifice themselves for others. The girls also display good morals such as supporting and defending others and resisting the bad guys. Gabi wants Marcello to do the right thing by his betrothed but, for a while, kept wanting him to notice her. Eventually, he was ready to break his promises to his betrothed because he loved Gabi. There were also some intense scenes with the bad guys leering at the girls.

Personal Opinion - It was good. I liked the story and adventure . It was really exciting and I thought it was well put together but there were a couple of things that got to me while reading. I felt like Gabi changed her mind too much, going back and forth between wanting Marcello to see her and wanting him to do the right thing by his betrothed, and the constant use of the word "hot" to describe him got annoying. By the second book, I was thinking there were too many fight scenes. Actions scenes are good but reading the books back to back made it a bit much for me. Perhaps, if I had more of a brake between the two, it might have been okay but I still think it was a lot. It is always nice to have God and someones relationship with him brought into a book. Gabi and her family are not really strong Christians but she starts to turn to God as she spends time in the 14th century. Her journey to God isn't complete yet but she is praying more and asking for guidance which is a wonderful example for today's generation where religion and God are mostly not taught as the number one thing in our life. I don't know how much the average teen prays but it is great when you have a good role model who shows faith and guides readers down that path. I look forward to seeing more development in the girls' faith in God and the continuing adventure with their "knights in shinning armor". The books were well written and had good character development with different personalities among them and many good laughs from the character, Luca. I can't wait to read the last book, Torrent, and see how it all goes together. Definitely a series I will be recommending when someone asks about a good teen novel.

Video - Waterfall -

Video 2 - Cascade -

Links - Lean more about the books and the author at: http://lisatawnbergren.com/ . I wrote a review for one of this author's children's books, which you can read here: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/02/god-gave-us-world.html

Special Notes - Book 3, Torrent, is out later this year.

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On the Runway: CIAO

2011-07-03T12:18:00.000-05:00

"The Sweet Life Might Just Turn Sour."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Book 6 - Sisters Page and Erin are struggling with their personal lives as they continue to shoot their reality TV show, On the Runway. As they try to figure out if Page's fiance is cheating and Erin wonders about her own relationship with Blake, they have to go to Milan for their fashion week while trying to keep their hearts intact.

Author - Melody Carlson

Publisher - Zondervan

Age Group - 13 or 14 and up

Content- The sisters look out for each other, in there personal lives and fashion. When things got tough, they stood by one another or whoever it was who needed support. Unfortunately, there were a couple of things that bothered me. They didn't handle some sensitive situations very well in my opinion. One seemed like blackmail and the other didn't seem like the right place or time and was humiliating to the people involved. Okay, they might have deserved it but it just didn't seem right. I also wished it had gone more into the Christian aspect of things and explained more why it is inappropriate to be with someone before marriage.

Personal Opinion - I hadn't read the other books in the series when I read this one so some things that I wanted more info on might be more fleshed out in the other books but I still think it is good and I got the story pretty quickly. I'm kinda like Erin when it comes to fashion; lost. But, I think someone who is interested in fashion and/or reality TV would find this book cool in getting the behind the scenes glimpse on how it works and what it is like. Also, a fashion enthusiast would be very happy with the clothes descriptions. The thing that bugged me the most, though, was how the girls handled the serious situations they were in where the truth had to come out but the other characters made it seem that it was handled fine. I also wish it had gone into more detail about themselves (but, like I said, this might have been covered in previous books). This book was good but discussing different options the girls could have done in those situations I mentioned might be beneficial.

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher, Zondervan, through the Z Street Team.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://melodycarlson.com/teens.shtml .

Video - Watch a trailer about the series below. It was with this trailer that I was able to understand, generally, what was going on in the series. That was helpful for me.

Special Notes - This is book 6 in the series On the Runway. The release of this book is in August 2011.

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A Place Called Blessing

2011-06-26T13:55:00.001-05:00

"Where Hurting Ends and Love Begins"

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Josh and his two brothers are left orphans when their parents are killed in an accident. After going from foster home to foster home and a terrible accident, life becomes harder still for the boys. They even become separated. When Josh turns 18 and leaves the system, he has learned not to trust others and carries around much pain from his past. But, when he rents a room from a kind woman, Anna, she starts to break down the walls around his heart. Much is about to change for Josh.

Author - John Trent, PhD, with Annette Smith

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - Josh grew in God throughout the book and made positive choices (after a few mistakes). There was a lot of forgiveness in the book. How open the people were to forgiving each other and continue on and love one another was really wonderful. It seems people forget about that and feel they should hold a grudge or make someone pay and this book showed the opposite. A few mistakes were made but that is natural in real life.

Personal Opinion - What a moving story. A tear jerker but was so beautiful that it needs to be read. Uplifting even through the tears. The book is to show these five elements in a new way from another book by the auther, John Trent, called The Blessing, which I have not read. Some parts of the book might have meant more to me had I read it but I appreciate it for other reasons (you by no means have to read The Blessing to understand this book). The forgiving of each other, no matter what, was very meaningful to me because it is not something often discussed and some people like to hold grudges (like I was saying before) and it is so good to forgive and love. Something this book really promotes. I thought there would be more of his story in his coming to God but it was still great. There are some discussion questions at the end for those who want to go deeper. Some issues were brought up and talked about in the book that makes this more appropriate for an older audience but teens could enjoy this as well. I think much can be learned from this book, for people who have been in Josh's (or one of the other people's) shoes and who haven't.

Awards - I think the authors have won some for other books but this one hasn't, yet.

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Booksneeze.com.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://theblessing.com/

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The Dragons of Chiril

2011-06-21T10:20:00.004-05:00

"Before Dragonspell, on a Different Continent and in a Different Time, a Young Emerlindian's Desperate Decision Threatens to Disrupt the Foundation of the World."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Book 1 - After her father went missing fifteen years earlier, Tipper has kept her family and their estate afloat with selling off his art. But, when he suddenly reappears (along with two eccentric men from a country on the other side of the world), it becomes a life and death mission to find three statues that she had sold years ago. A ragtag team sets off to find and connect the statues before the world crashes in around them but there are obstacles that will make the journey difficult. Plus, something new is at work and the land of Chiril will soon come to know Wulder, a powerful being that holds everything in his hands.

Author - Donita K. Paul

Publisher - WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - The main characters stick together through the journey when it becomes difficult and they need one another. When in mortal danger, they defend one another. When it became difficult to get one of the statues, they didn't want to steal it because they knew it was wrong and didn't want to go against the teachings of Wulder. Unfortunately, they did lie a couple of times when they couldn't have the truth come out and Tipper doesn't listen or obey well and disobeys the others a few times.

Personal Opinion - When I originally got the book, I thought I would be jumping into the middle of a series and wondered how badly I would be confused. But then discovered that this book was The Vanishing Sculptor republished with a new name and cover. Surprised, but pleased, that I was actually at the beginning of the series, I read it eagerly. I really enjoyed how some characters could talk in circles in their conversations which was funny and made me chuckle. They really did make your head swirl a little. There were also four drawings in the book and a map which I always love to have included and a helpful glossary at the end. I thought it would get into finding the statues quicker than it did but it was still entertaining all the way through, it didn't drag or lose me. I also thought there would be a little more to the ending and that there would have been more development in the Wulder business but there is a second book so, perhaps, it is setting you up for that. The Christian analogies were good but I still don't completely understand them all and am trying to piece them together. Perhaps when I read book 2 this will become clearer. Very entertaining and kept my interest well. I look forward to reading the other books in this series and will recommend this to my friends.

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://www.donitakpaul.com/index.html . Read a sneak peek at the publisher's website at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/2011/03/25/sneak-peek-the-dragons-of-chiril-by-donita-k-paul/ . You can also read the review I wrote of the book The Dragon and Turtle Go on Sufari, which is also by Danita K. Paul, here: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/01/dragon-and-turtle-go-on-safari.html .

Special Notes - This book is a re-release of The Vanishing Sculptor with a new name and cover. There are two more books after this one, Dragons of the Valley and Dragons of the Watch, which is releasing later this year.

The reason for the email address in this rating system is because some people were rating reviews more than once. I never see or have access to the emails and they will be kept private. After you confirm or email (you only have to do that once), you will not receive anything more unless you leave the check mark for receiving updates from the publisher. I would very much appreciate you ranking my review.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

Human.4

2011-06-19T12:30:00.003-05:00

"Alert: Humanity has been upgraded. You are now obsolete."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Kyle just volunteered to help his friend with a hypnotizing demonstration at the town's talent show. What he didn't volunteer for was what happened when he woke up. Everyone was changed... Yet, they still looked the same. What happened and why did it happen?

Author - Mike A. Lancaster

Age Group - 13 or 14 and up

Content - The characters were good. Not as in well developed good (that too but there were a couple things that I wish had been developed more) but as in good behavior and morals. The main character paid for something when he could have easily just taken (this makes sense if you read the book). The main characters also look out for each other and help one another. One even mentioned trying to help this girl who had wanted to end her life. It mentioned God twice (and not in a derogatory teams) but it was kinda just in passing. The characters also came to realize what they had before 'the change' and saw how important it was. Not much bad stuff but they did lie once and said 'arse' but I think that is better than the alternative. Some people might be uncomfortable with the fact evolution kinda played a role in the book but I will discuss that in the "Personal Opinion" part.

Personal Opinion - So, I have always had this question. A question I never shared with anyone but always wondered about and this book answered that question. That question was... Do you dial the same number in an emergency as you do in America in another country or is it different? Okay, not a very important question but I have wondered about it. Anyways, back to the review. When I finished the book, it left me with kinda the feelings I had when I first saw Invasion of the Body Snatchers. I had a tingle up and down my spine and on my arms. By the way, this is a complement. I found the book interesting and it had a cool concept. I read it in two days. Unfortunately, I can't share too much about it because it was so entangled together I would give away too much of the story but it was full of adventure and mystery. It really made you wonder what was going on. The character were nicely created and the story put together well with back stories coming at good spots. I don't read to many futuristic stories (I usually just watch those) but this one had an original idea about the future and you get a taste of it in the little, grey boxes spread out within the text. I don't believe in evolution but the book had an interesting twist to it but, again, I would give away too much if I said much more. There still was a hint of a higher being but, unfortunately, it left you wondering how good they were. I really liked the book and look forward to reading book 2. Just some advise if you do read it though; read everything. All the little boxes in the text (which can be funny and show a little about how the 'future' will be like) and the Editor's Note in the beginning and the Afterwords in the end because they are all part of the story and you will miss something if you don't.
Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://www.mikealancaster.com/

Special Notes - Another book coming out, 1.4 (That might be the title in Europe though). This book is under another title in Europe, 0.4. Also, if you try to look this book up on goodreads, it is easiest to find it if you type in the author's name instead of the book title. I would get stuff about the human body when I used the title but found it instantly when I used the author's name.

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Knightley Academy

2011-06-05T19:50:00.001-05:00

(Sorry about the picture but it was difficult getting a picture without glare)
Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

Storyline - Book 1 - Henry Grimm, on orphan and servant, thought life wouldn't get any better than the work he was doing and the secret lessons with a teacher at the school where he worked. But, when he is allowed to take the Knightley Academy exam, an elite school, and is the only one to pass, his world, along with the social order, is turned upside down. Now he will train to be a knight and have a better chance at a future. But when someone starts sabotaging his and his other common friends' chance at staying at Knightley, it will take everything they got to stop the attacks and stay in school.

Author - Violet Haberdasher

Age Group - maybe 12, 13, or 14 and up

Positive - Several good things so will name the best of the best. The main character didn't want to do friend's homework (but changed a little towards the end but he was under a lot of stress too at that point), helped each other with work, regretted vengeance on bully and even saw him a little differently, they finally talked to someone about problems they were having, and, when one of their bad behaviors was discovered, admited it was their own fault for their downfall. Even though these things are all good and such, the characters were still misbehaved a ton.

Negative - Way too much bad stuff to list it all so here is the worst of the worst. Besides the bad language and making fun of teachers behind there backs, both of which only happened sporadically, there was braking of rules, the school's and one boy's disobedience to his parents, threatening a bully who was going to reveal their bad behavior, and took revenge on someone they thought was coming after them. The teachers were not always the best examples either, one hiding something the characters did that was wrong and the head teacher not giving the proscribed punishment once but you could counter with the fact a meeting was held instead to determine punishment. I also wasn't too fond of the main girl character. I can kinda see where she was coming from in wanting to be accepted and to learn what boys learn but her actions were excessive and was quite extreme in her threats to her friends' bully. She wasn't all the respectful either of her elders.

Writing - Sentence structure, story development, and character development all were good but, for some reason, seemed really slow to me. I could close book at any place and not be in mad rush to get back to it. If this hadn't been a library book, I probably could have drug this book out for months. I just couldn't get into it.

Personal Opinion - I found this book to be okay. It took too long to get to the exciting parts (about half way through) and then the reasons for why someone was ambushing them you didn't know until right before they found it or were not able to piece together before hand because you didn't get to know half the information until bad guy told them. I found it to be slow but can't piece together exactly why because it seemed to have all the stuff that would make it a good story. A lot of subtle negative things that I didn't like and can't go into too much about it because it would require a lot of info on things that happened in the book which would create a lot of spoilers and retell too much of the story. It did leave you, though, with some hope that the main characters will be better in the future so I might read book two but I will get it from library if I decide to read it.
Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://knightleyacademy.com/

Special Notes - Book 2, The Secret Prince, out in June. A new cover has come out for this book.

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The Storyteller's Daughter

2011-05-29T16:40:00.004-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - You think you know the story of Shahrazad. But you were wrong. That is how our story begins. As a young girl, she was not liked by the other children because her mother was different which made her different. So she hid herself from the world. But when the king changes after his late wife finds a lover and conspirates to kill him, Shahrazad knows it is she who is meant to save him. But will her plan to help him be taken as a plot against him if he learns of it? And what of the brothers of the king's late wife who now wants revenge? Will the king and Shahrazad find love before it is too late?

Author - Cameron Dokey

Age Group - 15 and up

Positive - The characters displays many good morals and the stories that were told taught great lessons that I feel are not always promoted in other books. Even though the stories were new and not from the original Arabian Nights, which this book is based off, they were great, interesting, thought provoking stories.The line between good and bad was very clear.

Negative - There was some light magic in the stories. Shahrazad would read a cloth and tell the story within it. When it was finished, the cloth would usually turn into something else. That was pretty much the magic in the book.

Writing - The words the author used and the sentence structure was like what you would read in fairy tales from the Brothers Grimm or Hans Christian Anderson. Even though it was a little different, it was appropriate for the story and was rather interesting.

Personal Opinion - For being a secular book, it was good. Clean and decent and I enjoyed the story. The retelling of this old tail was new, interesting, and very clean. I will be giving other books in this series (especially the ones I am interested in the most) a read when I can get my hands on them. If interested in the Arabian Nights story or fairy tales, this is a very interesting book.

Links - No website but you can find info on the book at the publisher's site at: http://books.simonandschuster.com/Storyteller's-Daughter/Cameron-Dokey/9781416937760 .

Special Notes - This book is part of a series called Once Upon a Time, which has about four contributing authors. You can read the other books' titles and the authors at wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Once_Upon_a_Time_(novel_series) .

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Blood of Kings

2011-05-22T21:00:00.004-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 5 Worms

Storyline - Book 1 - By Darkness Hid - Achan is a nobody who has nobody. So when a legendary knight of the past offers him a squireship, he is confused, especially since strays are not allowed to serve in the Kingsguard anymore after the king was murdered and half the land went into darkness. When Achan's training is discovered, Sir Gavin disappears and Achan's life takes another unexpected tern. Things start to become confusing and dangerous. But, when the prince goes to the Counsel to receive the kingship, what will be discovered there will turn everyone's world upside down. Something more is going on here then anyone ever expected. Meanwhile, Vrell, a noble girl, is pretending to be a boy to escape the evil prince who wants to make her his queen, even by force. But when two Kingsguard come to take her to a new master for her rare gift, she has no choice but to go and try to continue to hid the truth. But as she starts learning to use her new skill of Bloodvoicing, she sense a powerful one who seems not to know what is going on and is in trouble. Everyone wants this one's gift but how is Vrell suppose to help him? And how long will she be able to keep her secret? And what will become of Achan as his world take an unexpected turn?

Author - Jill Williamson

Age Group - 15 and up (because it is meant for an older age group and it is quite large, intimidating younger people or just making them think "How am I going to read that?" or they might think they will get bored)

Content - The characters portray good traits. Achan does something to save a friend even though it is something that will not make him happy (sorry for being so vague but anymore detail will make it a big spoiler). Vrell tries to help Achan and protect him from those who would use him. Both are willing to help others. The distinction between good and evil are clear. Achan does wish others ill a few times. Vrell is lying about who she is but wants to do the right thing. The bad guys are creepy (but what do you expect). A few things are hinted at that makes this book more appropriate for teens and older.

Personal Opinion - What a great book. I can't believe I took so long in picking it up and read it but, when I did, I was shocked at how fast I went through it considering its size (10 pages short of 500. One of the longest books I have ever read. That is, outside of textbooks). There were a couple of times I thought it was going to get slow or I wanted to be reading about another character but then I would start reading and, within a paragraph to a page, I was hook on what was going on right there. It took a little while for the Christian analogy stuff to come into the story but the parallels the author made were great but there are still things to learn because one of the characters knows very little of The Way. The characters themselves were wonderful and you really got interested in them and their situations.The pacing keeps the book moving nicely and is not hard to understand but still has great descriptions and well made back stories. I can't wait to read book two and see what happens to the characters and uncover the mysteries that you were left with in the end. This book deserves the award it won. A book I will highly recommend to my friends (one I will also want to discuss and debate with them on).

Awards - Winner of the 2010 Christy Award (http://jillwilliamson.wordpress.com/2010/06/28/by-darkness-hid-wins-christy-award/)

Links - Learn more about the book series and the author at: http://jillwilliamson.wordpress.com/the-blood-of-kings/ (you can also take a look at some trailers for the books at: http://jillwilliamson.wordpress.com/book-trailers/).

Other books: Book 2 review - http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/10/blood-of-kings-to-darkness-fled.html

Book 3 review - Coming Soon

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Soul Surfer

2011-05-15T13:09:00.004-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

Storyline - Bethany Hamilton was a great surfer. She was like any other kid, homeschooled, hung out with friends, loved God and family, until one day a shark took her arm. But she wouldn't let that keep her down. She wanted to surf and get back in the water and fulfill her dream of being a pro surfer. With her friends, family, and God, she would make the journey to return to the sport she loves.

Author - Bethany Hamilton, Sheryl Berk, and Rick Bundschuh

Age Group - 13 or 14 and up

Positive - Bethany placed her trust in God, even when things looked really bad. She also didn't give up on her dream. It seemed hopeless that she would ever surf competitively but she was determined to "get back in the water."

Negative - Nothing was really negative but there were a couple of things she mentioned doing as a kid that I just shook my head at.

Writing - The book was mostly in a telling format. The organization could have been done a little better and more info on the peoples' feelings and specific situations would have been better. It would sometimes talk about the attack and then the next chapter would be something about before the shark such as things she did with her friends. I think this was to see what life was like before but there was just a little too much information and I didn't always see how it pertained to the rest. It was still pretty interesting though to read and hear what it is like to live in Hawaii, surf, and about how important God is to her.

Personal Opinion - I thought it was a good book but it wasn't the best autobiagraphy I ever read. It talked a lot about her life in the past (what she liked to do, family and friends, and surfing) but I thought there would be a little more about the attack and her recovery after. Also, I don't think the organization of the book was done very well. There were stories but they were told in more of a general way then any specific cercomstance and I didn't really feel or identify with them much (there were a couple that were nicely told but it wasn't the norm). It was written more in a way a magazine writes a story but it was longer. She just told you about things or how she felt but, then again, she does say that is who she is; just tells it like it is. That is fine and all but it made it hard to get into the story. I liked the journal at the end about the making of the movie which was cool. It was a pretty good book and I still think her personal story is great about overcoming adversity but I didn't really learn more than what I was already told.

Awards - Has been on the New York Times Best Seller List.

Links - Learn more about this book and the author at: http://bethanyhamilton.com/ .

Special Notes - This book includes information about the making of the movie Soul Surfer. You can read my review of the movie at: http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/2011/04/soul-surfer-movie.html

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The Case for Christ

2011-05-05T18:10:00.019-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 5 Worms

About - Lee Strobel has a degree in law and journalism and was a reporter for the Chicago Times. But when his wife turned to God, he went into an investigation to see how reliable the gospels were or if they were fake and/or riddled with myth. He sees expert after expert, challenging what the gospels say and what others say to get to the truth about Jesus. After a two year investigation, what he finds leaves him with the ultimate decision. Believe or not.

Author - Lee Strobel

Age Group - Teens and up (just because it is a deep topic and the language used and concepts might be hard for a younger person to grasp)

Writing - Each chapter started with some sort of legal case that the author had covered or knew about and then related that to what he was going to do next in his investigation on Jesus. All the chapters covered something important to show that Jesus is real and that the gospels are true. The book moved along at a good pace, covered each topic completely, and came to moving endings.

Personal Opinion - Wow. This book was great. I knew that people didn't believe in God but I didn't know some of the things they used to discredit the gospels or defenses they used to explain it away. I also never heard a lot of the challenge questions or beliefs before until the author asked them of his expert. But I am excited how the gospels and what is in them was defended by big scholars with PH. D.s and personal investigations. The chapters that moved me the most were the ones on the crucifixion, the Jewish convert's story, and the authors decision in the end. The author also gives good advise about if you are wanting to do some investigation of your own. It works well for a defense for any denomination of the faith on Jesus. There were a couple of spots I disagreed with but the only one coming to mind at the moment is how they kept saying that Jesus had a brother named James who was sceptical of him until after the Resurrection. The problem is that Catholics don't believe Jesus had any immediate brothers or sisters but someone would be called one if they were a close cousin. So James could have been related to Jesus but a cousin. But the book was really good and it defended the Christian faith beautifully. I borrowed this book from a friend and now want to get my own copy. With this book, I know more about Jesus and am even stronger in my own faith because of the things I learned.

Awards - The Gold Medallion Book Award

Links - Learn more about the author and book at: http://www.leestrobel.com/ . You can also learn more about the book at the publisher's site at: http://www.zondervan.com/cultures/en-us/Product/ProductDetail.htm?QueryStringSite=Zondervan&ISBN=0310226465 .

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Praying for Your Future Husband

2011-05-03T10:26:00.006-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 5 Worms

About - Every girl thinks about "the One." What will he be like? When will my prince charming come? But, there are some important things to remember when thinking about your future husband. Will he be a God Lover? Will he be loyal and faithful? How do we go about finding good men with these qualities? Robin and Tricia give insight on these questions by giving example with their relationships and advises what to look and pray for in a future husband. They even talk about how to prepare yourself during the time before "the One" (or prince charming) comes.

Authors - Robin Jones Gunn and Tricia Goyer

Age Group - Teens and up (this book is a little more subjective and I'll let you know why this is in the 'Personal Opinion' section)

Writing - The personal stories of the authors, and other women, helped breach the topic of that chapter and gave good insight into what to look for in a man. The authors told it like it is and they gave helpful advice and examples to those wanting and waiting for their future husbands. Specific things were also mentioned to pray for and the Bible verses were very helpful and thought provoking. The book moved at a good pace and kept me wanting to read more. It was well put together and the questions at the end really helped to dig deep into what to pray for and what needs to be worked on in your own life.

Personal Opinion - This was a really helpful book. Considering I need to remember to pray for my future husband myself, this book helped me think of things to pray for and made excellent points about relationships and things to pray for in a husband. The reason I recommend the teen age group is because there is a chapter about intimacy in it (it is not graphic or inappropriate or anything, it more or less just says that it is good to wait so you can give yourself only to your husband) and one of the authors did make some bad decisions in the past but, again, not detailed. The book isn't about just praying for him to show up, but it is about praying for him, for God to help him in his temptations or struggles and for him to develop certain qualities that would be good in a husband. It was really insightful when these women talked about their past and the choices they made, which were drastically different from each other, and the consequences of those choices. The questions at the end of the chapters helped me think about my praying for a husband (which I usually forgot to do) and what things I should pray for. It also helped me make my "list," which I have also put off (but I did brake the rules and put down 14 things instead of the 10 as they suggested). I am planning on getting a copy of this book for a friend of mine as a gift. If wanting to pray for your future husband or just want one in the future, this book is really good and would recommend.

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Links - Learn more about the book and authors at: http://triciagoyer.com/index.html and http://www.robingunn.com/index.html . You can also check out an excerpt at the publishers site at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781601423481 .

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Upcoming Books This Year

2011-05-01T16:42:00.003-05:00

Hi all. Sorry there isn't a review up this Sunday but I was having some trouble. You probably don't need, or want, all the details (because it might be confusing if I tried to explain it) but I should have a review up on Tuesday. Until then, read this post about books coming out this year that I would like to read eventually. You might find something interesting yourself.

So, I was on this author's blog (it might have been his website) for a book of his that I heard about through an author I like and he was asking for help in advertising his book that is coming about this year. I thought, "I can do that." I am interested in his book so I thought I could share what the book was about. But then I thought that there are other books coming out this year that I am excited about so I should share those too. All the books below are books I am interested in reading and will try to get my hands on at some point but don't know when (there is one that I don't know when, what it looks like, or too much about so I can't share too much today. I will keep you updated though). Let me know what you think of them as you take a look.

First up, we have The Quest for the Truth: Taken by Brock Eastman. I heard about this book through the Miller Brothers back when it was self-published and had thought about getting it at the time but for some reason never did. It is now being republished by P & R Publishing on July 1 and I found out the author works for the company Focus on the Family which I really like. So here is the cover (got it off of the author's site) and what it is about (had to get this off lulu.com [the original self-publishing site] because I couldn't find it anywhere else. I'm also pretty sure the content hasn't changed).

What would you do if men broke into your house in the middle of the night and took your parents? Oliver Wikk has just returned home from his first year at the Academy. He was expecting to go on a summer long archeological dig with his parents, sister and two twin brothers. Instead he is thrust into the role of protector and rescuer. He must now lead his siblings on a mission to rescue his parents from a powerful but little known society called the Übel. As they unravel clues about their parents' recent discovery, they begin to understand that the Übel are up to much more than finding some ancient artifacts for money. Join Oliver, Tiffany, Mason, and Austin as they trek from place to place hoping to find the clues to a secret covered up long ago and rescue their parents from a dark organization that threatens to ruin their lives forever.

I heard about this book through Family Fiction and it sounded really interesting. It is out now but I don't have the money to get it and I have to see if my library does. It is called How Huge the Night by Heather Munn and Lydia Munn. Got the picture off amazon (can you tell?).

Fifteen-year-old Julien Losier just wants to fit in. But after his family moves to a small village in central France in hopes of outrunning the Nazis, he is suddenly faced with bigger challenges than the taunting of local teens.

Nina Krenkel left her country to obey her father's dying command: Take your brother and leave Austria. Burn your papers. Tell no one you are Jews. Alone and on the run, she arrives in Tanieux, France, dangerously ill and in despair. Thrown together by the chaos of war, Julien begins to feel the terrible weight of the looming conflict and Nina fights to survive. As France falls to the Nazis, Julien struggles with doing what is right, even if it is not enough-and wonders whether or not he really can save Nina from almost certain death. Based on the true story of the town of Le Chambon-the only French town honored by Israel for rescuing Jews from the Holocaust-How Huge the Night is a compelling, coming-of-age drama that will keep teens turning the pages as it teaches them about a fascinating period of history and inspires them to think more deeply about their everyday choices.
(Got this info from amazon.com)

Well, I was on amazon (where I also go this picture) and I saw that John Grisham has a new book for Theodore Boone coming out. I wrote a review on his last book about this kid last year (you can take a look at that review here ) and thought it might be fun to read this one. It is coming out June 6.

Theodore Boone is back in a new adventure, and the stakes are higher than ever. When his best friend, April, disappears from her bedroom in the middle of the night, no one, not even Theo Boone-who knows April better than anyone-has answers. As fear ripples through his small hometown and the police hit dead ends, it's up to Theo to use his legal knowledge and investigative skills to chase down the truth and save April. Filled with the page-turning suspense that made John Grisham a #1 international bestseller and the undisputed master of the legal thriller, Theodore Boone's trials and triumphs will keep readers guessing until the very end.
(Got this info from amazon.com)

When I signed up for goodreads, I saw book 2 in there giveaway section and thought it sounded very interesting. Now, I haven't read book 1, Knightley Academy by Violet Habadasher, and my library does have it so I will be making an effort to borrow it. Book 1 is out (which is shown below) but book 2, Knightley Academy: The Secret Prince, will be coming out June 28.

From Booklist

Henry Grim is an orphaned servant who studies in secret, hoping to rise above his station. He gets his chance when he is allowed to sit for the Knightley Academy entrance exam and becomes the first commoner admitted. This prestigious school once trained knights for combat, but combat was outlawed when the Longsword Treaty brought peace to the Britonian Isles. If Henry excels, Knightley could open its doors to commoners for good, but vicious sabotage threatens his triumph. On the hunt to identify his saboteurs, Henry discovers a plot to break the treaty and start a war. Haberdasher embraces the Harry Potter comparison with in-jokes, but this series debut doesn’t rise above the comparison. Knightley Academy has disappointingly little to do with actual knights-in-training; it is more like an elite boarding school, and what knights do in this alternate history is unclear. Yet Henry and his outcast friends are an appealing group with great chemistry, and it’s easy to enjoy their fast-paced adventures as they navigate classes and thwart bullies. Grades 4-8. --Krista Hutley --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
(Got this info from amazon.com)

Another one I am excited about is the last book in a series I have been reading for the last couple of years. It is called The Final Hour in the Homelander Series by Andrew Klavan (you can read the review of the other books in the series on this blog). It is do out on July 26.

The Homelanders are attacking-and it's Charlie's last chance to stop them. Charlie West was an ordinary high school kid who went to bed one night and woke up in the clutches of terrorists and wanted by the police for murder. He also woke up with no memory of the events of the last year. His memory is returning now and has brought the terrible realization that he knows when the terrorists are going to strike next. Whatever it takes, Charlie knows he can't give in or give up until they're stopped . . . even when the final hour is ticking away. (Got this info on amazon.com)

I read the first book of this series below a while ago and was beginning to wonder if book two was going to ever come out. But, then, the other day, I decided to look it up and found out that book two was going to be published this year (in the UK. Bummer. I will have to find out when it will release in the US). I should re-read book one and write a review but here is the info for Max Cassidy: Jaws of Death releasing in August (in the UK).

Max continues his search for his missing father. This takes him to Sweden and the jungles of Borneo, where his life is once again put in jeopardy. He must summon all his courage and skill to escape....
(Got this info from the author's web page).

So, a couple months ago I put up a review for the books in the Dragons of Starlight Series and here is book 3 coming out on August 30. I will have to update that post when I read this book.

The Mysteries Unfold As a Starlighter, Koren knows her destiny is to save her fellow human slaves from the dragons' bondage---but by following the orders of the smooth-talking dragon king, Taushin, has she in fact doomed her people and herself? As Koren struggles over her choices, Elyssa discovers a new aspect to her Diviner gifts when her pendant begins to unlock mysteries surrounding the stardrops from the Exodus star. Soon Elyssa, along with Jason and his father, also discover new truths behind the dragons' prophecy and learn that Randall has teamed with Magnar and Arxad to wage battle against Taushin's followers. With a major war imminent and talk of a new Starlighter in the air, confusion and uncertainty reigns---something Taushin may have planned for all along.
(Got this info from amazon.com)

Lastly, (I think) is the next book by Melanie Dickerson, The Merchant's Daughter. This will be coming out November 29 (man, I have a ways to wait). I am following the author's blog and she hasn't shown what the cover is yet but I found the same cover on goodreads and amazon but, if it is different, I will let you know.

An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice. Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past. Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.
(Got this info from amazon.com)

Well, this is most of the books I would like to read but are not out yet (if I added what I do want to read but are available, this post could go on for a long time). I don't know when I will be able to get some of these because several things need to happen before I can read them. 1. Some become available through some of the programs that I review for, 2. Some become available at my library, 3. I get a job and can afford to buy some, or 4. I get some as a gift. Also, where ever I said "got this info from" I also got the cover image from. Enjoy and drool with me over these books that are yet to be released.

No Place Like Holmes

2011-04-25T13:34:00.004-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Griffin Sharpe is sent to England in 1903 to spend the summer with the uncle he has never known (not even his first name) or met. The only knowledge he has is his uncle is a detective, is called Snoops, and lives at 221 Baker Street, the address of the famous Sherlock Holmes. But, he is met with an unfortunate reality when he learns his uncle lives at 221A Baker Street and Holmes lives at B. In reality, his uncle is testy and doesn't really want him around but, when they land a strange case involving a missing man believed to be eaten by the Loch Ness Monster, it will take both of them, Griffin using is genius brain, and his uncle, using his strange devises, to uncover the truth. But the truth is bigger than either of them realized.

Author - Jason Lethcoe

Age Group - 12 and up

Positive - Griffin relies on God and prays to Him when things get tuff. He tells the truth and tries to do the right thing. Even when it is hard, he tries to be nice and respectful to others even when they don't return the friendliness. When his uncle explains why he is the way he is, Griffin empathizes with him. He also tries to protect the ones he cares about, even at the risk to himself. People also admit the things they did that were wrong eventually.

Negative - Not much negative. Griffin's uncle isn't so nice at first and is insulting to his neighbor, Sherlock Holmes. He wants nothing more than to beat Sherlock and he holds much anger towards him for a matter later found out in the book.

Writing - The writing was good and the characters well put together. I didn't see how more detail could have been added. I guess Griffin Sharpe was another legendary detective but I never heard of him until now but the author did say that we get to see many of the legends about him in the book.

Personal Opinion - Okay, it was the picture of the Loch Ness Monster on the front that first drew my interest. I know, kinda pathetic. But, as I was reading it, I found it was a good book with a good mystery. The only thing that got me was the robot that worked on steam. I don't know if that existed back in 1903 (or any of the other inventions of the uncle) but it just seemed strange. Other than that, it was a good story that moved well and contained many good lessons which the characters picked up. The mini-mysteries at the end were fun, even got one before reading the answer but the second one, no such luck. I don't know how many other people will get this but I was excited that Father Brown made an appearance (okay, I never read a Father Brown Mystery but I do think I know who the author is and am so excited that he was in the book). A mystery that is good for Christians and anyone else who wants to read it. It also leaves you with the knowledge that there will be more books to come...

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Booksneeze.com.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://www.jasonlethcoe.com/The_Wonderful_World_of_Jason_Lethcoe/Welcome.html , http://www.noplacelikeholmes.blogspot.com/ , and http://www.jasonlethcoe.com/holmes/ (This one has a book trailor if you are interested). Found some information about the book here: http://www.familyfiction.com/authors/jason-lethcoe/books/no-place-like-holmes/ and even see the cover of the next one.

Special Notes - There is going to be a second book and it said on amazon.com that it will be in December.

Soul Surfer - The Movie

2011-04-20T12:41:00.000-05:00

Saw Soul Surfer on Sunday and it was great. Bethany Hamilton, a great surfer who was on her way to being sponsored, lost her arm to a shark attack. After it healed, she decided she wanted to start surfing again. But it is difficult only having one arm and trying to compete. She thinks she wants to walk away but she keeps being called back. Will she find what she needs to live her dream in spit of her missing arm?

Such a great story and message of dreams and relying on God. She trusts in Him to help her through the tuff time of trying to adjust to her new way of life. The movie has great examples of family sticking together and helping and caring for one another. They support Bethany and are always there for her.

I find it unfortunate that if I go on imdb or Rotten Tomatoes, Soul Surfer has a bad rating (about 6 stars on imdb and 53% on Rotten Tomatoes). I found it to be really good and don't see a lot of the stuff they were complaining about. In one on Rotten Tomatoes, though, Ignatiy Vishnevetsky said "The film offers motivational catch phrases instead of any real insights into Hamilton's character or the religion that the film constantly reminds us is so central to her life." I didn't see the catch phrases and I thought it showed she was religious and knew God but, I will have to admit, I wish there had been more (or maybe I assumed there would be more) faith elements but I still thought it was really good. I didn't see the poor acting that some of the reviews talked about (some said it was a poor script and another said that is was hard to see past Dennis Quaid and Helen Hunt and see Bethany's parents). But, other reviews talked about the great surfer scenes and I have to agree. They were stunning and interestingly captured. I really want to buy it when it comes out and I can't wait to get the book (I'm getting it for Easter but I can't start reading it until then). The movie showed that despite your limitations, you can do the things you dream of, "through the One that gives me strength."

The Codebearer Series

2011-04-17T20:47:00.003-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 5 Worms

Storyline - Book 1 - Hunter Brown and the Secret of the Shadow - When a prank goes south, Hunter is mysteriously sent to this book shop where he ends up with a book. But this is no ordinary book. After reading some of it, he is whisked off to the land of Solandria where he is trained to be a Codebearer and fight the Shadow. Then he is sent on a mission by Aviad, the son of the Author, to recover the Bloodstone. But he doesn't realize how this mission will change him forever. Will Hunter be able to trust the Author, even if it means death?
Book 2 - Hunter Brown and the Consuming Fire - Hunter has returned home and it is the beginning of the school year. But it isn't going very well. His friends and classmates thinks he's weird when he talks about Solandria and no one believes him. But then Hunter gets a message from a Codebearer captain who needs help. He returns to Solandria shortly after to find the Resistance in trouble and sent on a task to deliver the Consuming Fire to the chosen seven. Who are the seven? Will Hunter be able to complete his mission? Will the Shadow be able to reclaim him?
Book 3 - Hunter Brown and the Eye of Ends - Hunter has lost his memory. He can't remember his last trip to Solandria or what happened. Suddenly, he finds himself being chased on all sides and urgently needs to find his missing father, who he has not seen in three years, and return to Solandria. No where is safe. A Watcher is also tracking his every move who wants Hunter's father and what he possesses. The end of the Author's story. Will Hunter find his lost memory? Is what his father saw true? Will the Shadow take control of the story?

Author - The Miller Brothers

Age Group - 12 or 13 and up

Positive - Filled with abundant Christian analogies that I can't begin to list them all. Hunter grows much over the series and learns to trust and be faithful to the Author and his son, Aviad. He also learns about others and see things in new ways, over coming many trials along the way. Hunter stands up for his friends and what he believes in, even as the temptations and tests get harder and Aviad asks for the biggest sacrifice.

Negative - Out of the entire series, there is only one thing I wish had been done different. There was this one character that had been evil but had turned around but Hunter didn't trust him or forgive him. He did start to come around a little but I wish the book had shown Hunter change his feelings more.

Writing - Funny, original writing. A laugh even during serious times. You can just attach yourself to the characters and understand what they are going through and are feeling. The analogies are original and fresh and give you deeper meaning on different things on the Christian faith. The pace is good and keeps the story going without leaving out details or slowing down even when details are added. Keeps you laughing and interested and excited and moved through the whole thing. A captivating book series.

Personal Opinion - Okay, take the scene from Tangled were Rupunzel is swinging around the tree by her hair yelling, "Best day ever!" and replace Rupunzel with me and the word "day" with "series" and you pretty much got what I feel for the Codebearer Series. I still laugh when I read the first chapter in the first book (even when I just think about it, a smile comes to my face it is so funny). It is full of humor but it doesn't take anything away from the story. It just adds great laughs. The characters, back stories, description, analogies, and writing was very well done and not too slow, not too fast, or too much or too little information. I was excited (almost obsessed) with each book that came out and would love more on Solandria. Hunter was a character that you just enjoyed getting to know during his journey and seeing his growth in the Author. I can't remember who said it (me or another fan) but the characters seem like someone you could actually meet, they seem so real (okay, it was probably someone else who said that but I totally agree). The Miller Brothers know how to put a good book together and make characters that you can understand and relate to. Will read everything they write. Recommend to practically everyone because there is something that every person can enjoy. A Chronicles of Narnia for a tiny bit older age group. Via, Veritas, Vita.

Disclaimer - I'm not sure if I have to add this but just in case, I received book 3, Hunter Brown and the Eye of Ends, for free from the publishers for pre-reading and writing a short review for the front of the book. My opinions of this book is exactly as it says.

Links - Learn more about the books and authors at: http://www.millerbrothersbooks.com/ .

Awards - Book 1 - 2009 Bronze Moonbeam Award in Pre-Teen Fiction - Fantasy
Book 2 - 2010 Bronze Moonbeam Award in Pre-Teen Fiction - Fantasy

Special Notes - The book series also has a forum.

Lorein Legacies

2011-03-27T11:44:00.001-05:00

Storyline - Book 1 - I am Number Four - Number Four, also known as John, has moved from one town to another to escape the alien race that wants him dead. When he was just a child, his home planet was destroyed by the Mogadorians but a small group escaped. Three of the nine original children who are the only hope for their planet's survival are dead, and Four is next. After once again moving to a new town, Four's, or John's, Legacies, powers, finally start arriving. As he learns to control his skills, John must face bullies and alien fanatics while trying not to have his powers discovered. But as his power grows, so does his chances of being found.

Author - Pictus Lore

Age Group - 15 or 16 and up

Positive - The characters are dedicated to one another and try to help each other. The main character mostly listens to his guardian. He also sees another side of the bully, Mark, who also changes his colors. Four once risked his secret for someone he cares about and pretty much all the main characters risked their lives for one another. Four realizes why his guardian moves him around even though he doesn't like it and is sorry for going against him at one point.

Negative - There is a lot of bad language in the book. Much of it is back to back with sections without swearing between the but there is a lot. The main character seems to use excessive amounts of violence (even though he uses it during times when people are in trouble, he seems to keep using it when he doesn't need that much and also uses it to get information from those people he's fighting. Wouldn't it then make him just as bad as the bad guys because he's hurting them for information like they were going to hurt him or someone he cares about?). He strikes out in a lot of anger and rage. Also, he wants revenge on the Mogadorians for what they did to his planet and it seems that is okay. The main teen characters also go to a wild party. The scale tipper for me was when the main character and his girlfriend go into his room, sit on his bed, start kissing, then fall back on it. Nothing happens but something could have if the boy's guardian didn't show up. I don't need to read that stuff and I don't think it is right to put an almost sleep-together scene in a book for teens for that matter (it's why I changed the Age Group from '14 or 15 and up' to '15 or 16 and up'). Sex scenes are not okay, period. (There is more but this section is getting really long and I am beginning to retell the entire book)

Writing - The storyline was a very interesting idea but it wasn't put together very well. There was a lot of short sentences which could have been strung together to make for a more interesting description. The book also seemed to drag to the big climax at the end which got exciting and held my attention for most of it but then it also got a little long. I would like to say that something could have been cut from the story but I just don't know what. But, then again, the dragging problem probably could have been fixed if the short sentences had been worked out and would have made the book more interesting.

Personal Opinion - I'm afraid that this book was not that good. The dragging, short sentences, and everything in the 'Negative' section really kept me from enjoying the book. That and most of the things in the 'Positive' section didn't happen until much later in the book (pretty much after almost all the bad stuff happened) so it seemed Four wasn't learning much or changing. I also think the romantic scene stated above is very inappropriate and should never have been in the book and was unnecessary. If it was just to show how much he cared for the girl and loved her and how much it would hurt if they left, I already got that from other stuff in the book. Anyways, do we want to be teaching teens that it is okay to sleep with someone if you think you are in love with them? The amount of swearing in the book was also not needed. The characters make it seem that revenge was okay against the bad guys which teaches a really bad lesson on how to treat others. Sure, if someone is trying to kill you, you are going to have to fight back, maybe even to the death. But wanting to seek out revenge is just supporting violence and pain in the world. And, as pointed out in a different book by a different author, when does the violence stop? When is it enough? The bad guys are just going to seek revenge so then the good guys are just going to go after them again. Whatever happened to justice? (sorry, getting a little preachy). I probably wont be reading the other books in this series if this is how the others are going to continue.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://iamnumberfourfans.com/ .

Special Notes - It is now a movie created by DreamWorks. Book 2, Power of Six, comes out this year.

Auralia's Thread

2011-03-20T14:42:00.006-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Book 4 - The Ale Boy's Feast - After the slave rescue fails, the ale boy, Rescue, and the king of Abascar, Cal-raven, and several others are split up across the Expanse. The ale boy leads the survivors down an underground river to find the source of healing water and a safe place for the people. Cal-raven has to over come his failures and lead his people to the new home he's promised them. The glass workers are almost home and a woman named Milora is about to remember who she is. But things are not over yet with the Seers, having more to release on the people of the Expanse. As Deathweed and a new killer emerge, the journey is becoming more dangerous. Will the ale boy be able to save the people underground? Will Cal-raven be able to finally find what he has been searching for? And what will happen when the secret of their ancestors is found?

Author - Jeffrey Overstreet

Age Group - 16 and up

Positive - The forgiveness in the book was wonderful as Cal-raven pardons those that did great wrongs. Several of the people who did evil finally saw the truth about their actions and wanted to correct them. Jordam was shown to be more than what he appeared on the outside. Many of the main characters were underdogs and were strong people who became able to lead the others. The ale boy was very humble and only took authority because others looked to him. He also had a big heart and wanted to help everyone, didn't just think about himself. A woman, Brevolo, talked about the true qualities in a man which mentioned qualities that women should look for in men. Some characters died to save others.

Negative - Unfortunately, there were some stuff that brought the book down. Two people were seen naked but only one had a crude joke to go with it. The romance stuff was a little uncomfortable for me and thought some wasn't necessary (I like some romance in my books but there was something in this book makes me feel uneasy). There was a few too many love triangles (or pentagons or octagons) which made me wonder about who was truly in love with whom. One woman seemed to be throwing herself at someone, willing to come to him if he called, she said. Another character got pregnant before marriage but I do think one of the people in the relationship seemed to see that it was wrong but the book never really got into that. Something was also taken from someone by force because they knew that it would not be given to them completely but only partially (sorry if this is really vague but I don't want to give away the story).

Writing - The descriptions were intricate and detailed. They were very beautiful. In fact, there were times that they were so intricate that I got lost on what was being described but I still liked them and it made for colorful reading. It kinda reminded me of Shakespeare and how it takes a little to understand him but the language is flowers and pretty still. The author created strange creatures and weapons for his world and also, it seemed to me, gave new names to things that also exist in our world as well as that one (that made sense because, if something like a bow and arrow existed in another world, what would be the guaranty that it would have the same name there as it does here?). The diverse characters also made the book interesting. They ranged from being full of hope to completely despairing, being faithful to betrayal, and more. But I do wish that the characters' emotions had been tapped into more. I wasn't always sure of some of the characters motivations or feelings to one situation or another.

Personal Opinion - All in all, the book was an interesting analogy (at least I think it was meant to be). I was a little confused in the beginning but that was my own fault. I read book four in a series that really interconnects with each other but haven't read any of the others books (I did once read a review for book 1 and there was a short section in the beginning of this book to remind you of what has happened so far and a nice glossary on the characters in the back but I was still trying to figure it out on my feet. It didn't help either that I started it with a cold and my head was foggy). I know, that was pretty dumb but I did get past the confusion and I would have understood things better had I read the first 3 books. I am curious about the other books so I probably will read them which might help me understand things more. But, anyways, some of the romance stuff did make me a little uncomfortable and I didn't see the point why someone had to be seen naked (I could see a small lesson was being started with the pregnancy one and wish it had gone more into it). But there was many good, Christian lessons to be had in this book. Though, I understood what some of the people or situations were suppose to represent, there were some I didn't quite get. In fact, one of them, in the way I interpreted it, didn't sound Christian like and made me feel uncomfortable but I might have miss understood so I wont share anymore on it. The book ended with too many loose threads I felt, but that could mean the author might write more books but concentrate on different characters (this is a guess, not a guaranty). Perhaps the books were really only meant to cover certain characters and then leave you with the rest of them still having a chance to grown and live (still a guess). But there was still things, like the forgiveness examples and the characters actions that were positive, that I liked. The story was well told too (maybe a little rushed at the end but still good). Over all, it was a pretty good book. The descriptions and language makes this book great for an older age group who might still enjoy fantasy but doesn't want to read a book for young adults. If you are interested, just one world of advise, be smart and read the books in order. Don't be me.
Links - Learn more about the book, other books, and the author at: http://lookingcloser.org/ . You can also find information, like an excerpt, at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400074686 . There is also an interview with the author in Family Fiction emagazine that help me understand the story a little. You can read it at: http://www.familyfiction.com/magazines/2011/mar-apr/pageflip.aspx ; on page 32.

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Special Notes - There are three other books in the series; Auralia's Colors, Cyndere's Midnight, and Raven's Ladder. (Book list taken from http://lookingcloser.org/ - author's website. I have not read any of them except The Ale Boy's Feast.)

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

The Star Trilogy

2011-03-14T13:58:00.001-05:00

Bookworm's Ranking - 3-4 Worms

Storyline - Book 1 - The Dragon Boy -A boy with no name and no place to go is finally about to make his dream come true to work next to the kingdom's dragon, Star. The boy gets a name and begins to make friends and enemies. Soon the boy is given a great task to wash the dragon and learns many secrets, and starts to get a few of his own. But when one of these secrets get out, there's trouble. What will happen to him now?
Book 2 - The Dragon of Two Hearts - Michael, the boy now a man, has heard about a dragon terrorizing the kingdom of Gladur Nock. As he heads that way to face it, he learns about the desperate plight of the people and a cruel king. He is taken to train with other warriors to face the dragon but, when he meets the beautiful princess, he's not too sure if he wants to go to his death. Can he defeat the evil Scorch? And, if he does, how will he concur the evil king?

Author - Donald Samson

Age Group - 11 or 12 and up

Positive - Interesting books. Star and the boy have a great love for each other. The boy stands by Star no matter what. When Michael goes after the evil dragon in book 2, he is willing to give up his life in order to save others. He learns great lessons though about who he is and how even he is not as good as he claims to be. He learns other lessons along with that but I will leave some of those for the reader to find.

Negative -I wish the boy hadn't given in to his angry so easily or at least learned that sometimes it isn't right to return the favor in the first book and, in the second, he planed to get even with a bully. I think you are suppose to get that the main character changes in several aspects of himself but it didn't mention this feeling of revenge specifically. Also, I wasn't too big on the idea of a dragon going back and forth of being good, then, after a time, returning to being wild. It just didn't seem right to make it sound that it was okay to go back and forth of being good and evil. They kind of made a point with this but I still wasn't too found of it. Two bad guys also talk about women in terms of what land and status they can get by marring them.

Writing - The books are written with simple wording and easy vocabulary. But the pace do differ between them. The first one was good. It moved at an alright pace and the characters were nicely created (I did find it strange how the boy kept saying "my love" to the dragon because that doesn't seem like something a boy would say but I don't know). Book two, though, seemed like it was a little slow in getting to the main story but their was a lot of information to go through to understand certain things latter on. But it didn't capture my attention very well. When it came to the time after the man fought the dragon, I got more interested and the story picked up pace.

Personal Opinion - I liked book 1 more than book two, mostly because I thought it was slower and it didn't capture my interest as much until much later on in the book. The books are clean and simply told. I kind of wish the main character didn't grow up by book two because I think kids like to read books about kids (at least that is what I assume because of how many book I've read that are for young adults that have young adults as the main character). Even though book two was much slower and less liked than book one, I am curious to see what happens in book 3 so I think I might read it but I am not so excited for it that I will go right out and get it as soon as I can.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://www.thedragonboy.com/ .

Awards - For book 1 - Winner of the Moonbeam Awards gold medal for Best First Book in 2009. For the Mom's Choice Award, silver medal for Fantasy, Myth, and Legends. A finalist for the Eric Hoffer Book Awards in Young Adult Fiction in 2010.
For book 2 - The silver medal in Young Adult Fantasy in the Moonbeam Awards in 2010. For the Mom's Choice Awards, silver medal in Fantasy, Myth, and Legends. In the Austin Waldorf School Children's Choice Award, Silver Medal in the 5th-6th Grades category.

The Secret Life of Samantha McGregar

2011-03-07T15:31:00.001-06:00

Storyline - Book 1 - Bad Connection - Since she was young, Samantha has had a gift. A gift for seeing things in dreams and visions. A gift she never really understood but her father seemed to. He also told her it was from God. Its been hard dealing with the gift since he died and with her mom not understanding it but when a class mate runs away and God starts giving Samantha hints as to what is happening to her, she has to make a decision on what to do with them. Are all the dreams from God? Should she listen to them? Or are they all messed up when she starts having dreams about this other girl? What should she do?

Author - Melody Carlson

Age Group - 15 and up

Positive - The main character really relies on God and always prays and asks for His help when she is unsure of what to do. She has friends who support and help her. She also makes clear what her gift is and isn't when people talk about it. Unlike some of the people she knows, Sam is not willing to go on a date with just anyone and sets a good example on how to date.

Negative - Nothing really negative except some girls are suggested that they have done things with boys that should be saved for marriage but it is made clear that it was wrong even though the girls don't believe that. The brother of the main character is also a druggie but it is shown what kind of mess one gets into with that sort of stuff. It has some grown up situations and hints that just makes this book more appropriate for a 'teen' age group.

Writing - The story was a little slow and it using words that make it in the present tense, like it is happening right at this moment, was a little irritating for me. It had a good storyline but the way it was put together and some of the word choices was not very smooth. Also, the characters continually using the same words like 'weird' got a little old.

Personal Opinion - The story had a good idea but some of the word choices were irritating sometimes and it was a little slow. But it did leave me wanting to know what happens next with Sam and her family. I also liked how the main character was a good example of a Christian girl in how she acted, dated, and differentiated on what her gift was and what more secular people might call it. I might read more of this series when I get money to buy them.

Links - Learn more about the author and her books at: http://melodycarlson.com/index.shtml .

God Gave Us the World

2011-02-21T13:24:00.004-06:00

Storyline - Little Cub and her family go to the museum to see and learn all about the bears of the world. As she sees the displays, she asks her mother why are they different from her and not made the same. The mother patiently explains how God made us all different but we are all still bears. She explains how he is creative and how he made the world and filled it with different bears.

Author - Lisa Tawn Bergren

Illustrator - Laura J. Bryant

Age Group - 5 and up

Positive - The story talks about how we're are all different but still created by God and we are each special. We each have our own place in the world and are important. The book has wonderful examples as Mama Bear explains why thing are the way they are. It also has wonderful lessons about God and about being different.

Negative - Nothing was really negative in this book.

Writing - The story and explanations were simple to understand and would be easily grasped by a child. The pictures were cut and had nice, vivid colors. There was not a lot of description in the story but the pictures helped in that aspect.

Personal Opinion - I thought the story was cute and had a good message for children on God and how others are different but still special. I can't wait to share it with my nephew when he gets older or even my own kids when I get married and have some. A nice story for anyone who wants to teach their kids about why we are different or just to read to them a story with a good message.

Links - Learn more about the book at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400074488 (there is also a discussion guide and coloring pages there). Learn more about the author and her books at: http://lisatawnbergren.com/ . Lastly, learn more about the illustrator at: http://www.laurabryant.com/ .

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Special Notes - Other books about Little Cub and her family are also available.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

Ranger's Apprentice

2011-02-18T15:13:00.101-06:00

Storyline - Books 1-7 - The Ruins of Gorlan, The Burning Bridge, The Icebound Land, The Battle for Skandia, The Sorcerer of the North, The Siege of Macindaw, Erak's Ransom - Will, orphaned when just a baby and doesn't even know who his family was, is excepted as an apprentice to the Rangers Corps. While learning the art of being unseen, the longbow, and throwing knives from one of the best Rangers, Halt, Will goes on dangerous adventures and has to save himself and his friends countless times. Of course, sometimes he's the one in need of help from his friends Horace (a talented knight), Gilan (a ranger), Alyss (an old friend), and Evanlyn (who has an interesting secret). As he goes through these adventures, he grows up and even becomes a full Ranger himself. But the adventures don't stop there.

Author - John Flanagan

Age Group - 14 and up

Positive - It's great how the characters stand up for each other when danger is around, anything from bullies to chopping blocks. They defend and protect one another and back the other up when they need it. The apprentices listen to their masters and learn from them and take their advise but sometimes have to use their own intuition when things don't go as planed but they still think of what they have been taught. Horace stands up to some bullies who have been terrorizing him to protect Will after he makes a promise to him to help him whenever he needs it after Will saved his life in the first book. In book 2, Will places himself in danger in order for his friends to get away and to foil a bad guy's plans. (There might be more than this but I can't remember)

Negative - Bad language is regularly in the books. There are some instances in the books that bugged me though, such as in book 3, when Horace and Halt are trying to rescue Will and Evelyn, they are in this port and Horace sees this girl with a really short skirt. He asks Halt why that is and he gives him a reason but it isn't true but Horace believes it so Halt decides to let him keep his innocence and not tell him the real reason. I didn't like what this was hinting at with the girl and I get the feeling that Halt thought that Horace, being so pure minded, was something childish or something like that. Also, once when Will and Alyss are working on something together, she has to change and Will catches a glimpse of her back and quickly turns away which makes her laugh. I didn't like the idea of how Alyss just laughed off Will trying to respect her, like seeing her back was no big deal and he was over reacting. Besides those things, Halt doesn't always use the best means possible for getting the job done, like 'the end justifies the means' kind of policy. He only respects religion so as not to offend someone he has to work with and once used what someone believed to get him to do something (okay it was to keep the person from killing someone but it was still liked he used the religion against the man). Halt also has no qualms about forging signatures and seals. (There might be more than just this but I can't remember)

Writing - Each book has a new storyline and a new adventure. Sometimes, series get boring after a while but this one is fresh and new with each book and does a great job for keeping your attention through it. The series is more about the adventures Will has as a Ranger instead of just one big event in his life which is what might make the series so entertaining. When one adventure ends, another begins. Like in real life. The descriptions and pace are also very good.

Personal Opinion - Very interesting series and each book is original and captures the reader's attention. But not great on the moral side of things. There are good things in the books but there is a lot of negative stuff in the books as well. I also felt that in book 6 and 7, Will was rebounding when he became interested in Alyss. But I do like how the characters try to protect and are loyal to one another. The books don't really get into any of the negative stuff I stated above, except for bad language, until about book 3. I also wouldn't give the books to the suggested age of 12 because I just feel that some of the things that are stated above are not needed to be read by someone that age. Someone also pointed out to me that it might be a good idea to give these books to someone who already knows what is right and not because some of the good characters do some unsavory things to get the job done and shown to be okay. Plus, once they read book one they'll want to go on to the next. I mostly like this series for the adventure and relationships of the characters.

Links - Learn more about the series and the author at: http://www.rangersapprentice.com/

Awards - In the bio about the author on the Ranger's Apprentice website, it says that the books have been on the New York Times Best Sellers List and has been shortlisted for different awards in Australia (the author's home country) for children's books.

Special Notes - The final book in the series, which will be #10, is out in April. All other books in the series are available now.

Dragons of Starlight

2011-02-09T12:51:00.001-06:00

Storyline - Book 1 - Starlighter - Jason is a brilliant swordsman trained by his brother. The two don't see eye to eye on things but when Adrian goes off to find the Lost Ones, Jason takes his place in protecting the governor. When the governor is killed, Jason is framed and has to prove his innocence. On the way, he finds a way to the dragon planet that is told to hold the Lost Ones. Koren is a slave to the dragons with a gift for storytelling. But when a friend is promoted and scared of what that really means, Koren goes to find out and learns that she is a Starlighter, a prophesied girl who is said to help the yet to be born prince that some believe will free the slaves while others believe it means they will be killed. Will the truth be found out and how will the slaves be freed? Also, can Jason and Koren get out of the trouble they get themselves into that might cost them their lives?
Book 2 - Warrior - The dragon prince is born and Jason and Koren are in the Northlands trying to find help to free the slaves. But as the prince's calls and the dangers become more persistent, Koren goes back to protect Jason and a new friend. Elisa and Wallace help Axard escape from Magnar only to be caught and imprisoned. Axard and Magnar then get locked in the human world and have to find a way out. Elissa and Wallace, mean while, escape and begin to learn some history of the dragons and go to free the cattle children. What will happen when Koren goes back to the prince? Will she resist him or is what he tells her true? What waits for Jason in the Northlands and will he be able to succeed a test set before him? And what of Randall and Tibalt? What is waiting for them when they return to Darksphere?

Author - Bryan Davis

Age Group - 15 and up (some grown up issues which makes this series more appropriate for high schoolers on up)

Positive - Koren fights and wishes to live her life according to the Code set down by the Creator and wants to help her fellow slaves, especially the cattle children who are the worst off. Jason fights for the freedom of slaves as well but has lessons to learn before he can do that such as how far he is willing, and should, go to help a stranger. There is much fighting to help those who are less fortunate and who are helpless. Wallace, who only has one eye and has been a slave all his life, helps those he cares about and even rises up to be more then he ever was before.

Negative - Something from book to really bothered me (there might have been another thing but this one really stuck out for me) from book 2, Warrior. A statement by one of the characters. Cassabrie and Jason are talking about how if they don't fulfill what the Creator sets out for them he will find another and if they get in the way of the Creator's plans he will eliminate them. Cassabrie once says, "You are free to make your own decisions, unless you get in the way and endanger the outcome of the game" (they are using the game of chess as an analogy). But I don't think that is true. I don't think God just gets rid of someone because they mess up his plans. I don't believe anyone can mess up God's plans intentionally or not, but I do believe we can not do what God wishes we would do (that is our free will he gives us). But God can use our mistakes for the better and even make us stronger and still get his plan fulfilled through us and our mistakes (this doesn't mean go out and do what ever you want and not bother trying to do God's Will). I don't think God is ever out of control of the game or else, then, he is not all powerful. God created every person for a reason so would he really just get rid of someone because they don't do what they are suppose to? Is that really compassionate? And if God did just eliminate those that get in his way then do we really have free will? And would any of us still be alive?

Writing - Bryan Davis is always original with his storytelling and has wonderful descriptions that draws you into the story and makes a clear picture in your head. There are things that are weird to me, like when a spirit of a dead girl enters someone living so they can travel easier, but I still enjoy the books and look forward to what is coming out next.

Personal Opinion - The books are exciting, the characters learning good morals and becoming stronger, the stories original, and they support faith and God which not a lot of books (especially secular ones) or are world today do. I think the only problems I ever have with this author's books is that (I believe) we are of two different denominations (I don't know what his is) so there are slight differences in our faith. I agree on the more universal believes of the Christian faith, such as trusting God, and the main morals of the story, such as helping others without looking for repayment. This series is exciting and, if you or someone you know like dragons, read this. Even if you don't like dragons, very entertaining and good lessons.

Links - Learn more about the books and author at: http://dragonsinourmidst.blogspot.com/ and http://www.daviscrossing.com/ .

Special Note - There is more to come in this series so I will be updating this review as I read the books. Also, in book 2, there's a paragraph missing. The author mentioned it on his blog and wrote the paragraph there. I have copied and pasted the link here which will take you directly to the paragraph:
http://dragonsinourmidst.blogspot.com/2011/01/warrior-readers-please-see-this-to.html .

Blind Hope

2011-02-01T14:22:00.007-06:00

Storyline - Laurie had made many mistakes in life while trying to find love and belonging. After gaining a job at Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch, she hears of a place that has dogs and a horse for rescue. Wanting to help, she agrees to take a dog only to be repulsed by it when she finally sees it. Not wanting to go back on her word and seeing what kind of place she would be leaving it to, she takes the dog and starts helping it heal and gives it a new name, Mia, and eventually love arises between dog and master. As time goes on, medical troubles arise. One of those troubles is blindness. As dog and own work together, Laurie learns about trust in God and many other lessons that she was only able to learn through her blind dog.

Author -Kim Meeder and Laurie Sacher

Age Group - 16 and up

Positive - The book teaches excelt lessons on faith and trust in God. On how he sees what's a head and we don't so we must listen to Him to find the right path. Also, it teaches that just because we begin to listen and have faith in God, doesn't mean that our troubles will cease but we will have peace.

Negative - Nothing really objectionable even though it hints that Laurie had done some wrong things in the past but it doesn't go into detail or ever show or say that these things were good. Quite opposite, it only talks about these things as bad.

Writing - The book was mostly telling of the instances of when Laurie learned something from her dog and the discussion between Kim and her about it and what it means concerning faith in God and growing in Him. It teaches many good lessons and points out many good things about faith and the love and forgiveness of God. The descriptions are colorful and interesting. I think the people who would get the most out of this book are people who suffered or think like Laurie once did but others will enjoy it as well and be reminded of many wonderful truths that should never be forgotten.

Personal Opinion - I found the book to be enjoyable and the of blind dog and owner who sees what is in front of the dog vs. humans and what God sees in our path in life depictions are wonderfull. I wish it had done more showing instead of telling but since it was mostly emphasising the lessons that the two learned and the growth in God, the telling might have been a way for the reader to focus on the lesson more. A really good book and I think anyone who has been in Laurie's situations or felt the way she did or has/is living the way she was would get the most from the book. But the lessons on love won't be lost on anyone and this book will bring those lessons back to the front of the mind as it is read.

Links - Learn more about the ranch and book at (there is also a video about the book at this link): http://www.crystalpeaksyouthranch.org/blindhope/ . Learn some more at the publisher's website too at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781601422804 .
Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group

Special Note - The reason I wanted to read this book was because I once had a blind dog too. He was a good dog, a little crazy but good. He has passed but he was sweet and loved tennis balls (and chocolate). He lived a good life and was well taken care of.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

The Charlatan's Boy

2011-01-25T15:17:00.007-06:00

Storyline - Grady is an orphan who has only known the life of show business as Floyd passes him off as a fabled creature known as the feechie, which the boy believes he is for most his life. But as people stop believing in such things, Grady learns he isn't the wild creature and the two have to find a new way to support themselves. As they go from one idea to another, the finally land on an idea to bring back the feechie trade. They have to make people believe that feechies are beginning to attack the towns and villages. But as the feechie trade returns, something big is about to change in Grady's life.

Author - Jonathan Rogers

Age Group - 14 and up (it can get a little slow sometimes which might cause a younger age group to lose interest quickly)

Positive - Some good points in the book are that it doesn't matter what you look like to be loved and that the truth makes Grady feel good. Barbary, a friend of Grady, defends him and cares about him for who he is unlike Floyd who doesn't show Grady much kindness or approval unless he does something to make his life better. Also, Grady once defends Barbary even at his own risk.

Negative - When Grady and Floyd start making people believe that feechies are going to attack them, the boy doesn't see that he's hurting people when he tricks them. Instead, he believes that they are responsible for how they react to his actions and it is their fault for believing it is feechies. He also reasons that the things he and Floyd do are show business and it is an art instead of tricks and playing off of people's beliefs and fears to get money. Grady never seems to see this though in the book.

Writing - Jonathan Rogers wrote an funny tale about a boy who doesn't know who he is. But the story didn't seem to flow that well from one event to the next. It seemed a little disjointed and choppy. The storyline was a little weak with Grady mostly just telling how the feechie trade ended for him, the thing that happened with different trades until the rebuilding of the feechie trade, and what happened when the two had built up a scare. Grady, though, describes things in a funny way such as what "leaving them wanting more" is like which puts a smiles on the readers face. But Grady doesn't seem to learn any important lessons such as playing off people's fears is wrong. Perhaps he learned something when he was betrayed by his only friend and realizes he was a charlatan but it wasn't entirely clear. The ending, though, had a nice sentiment to it. Whether or not I read the next book about Grady is uncertain.

Personal Opinion - The book was okay. Not bad but not great either. It did have moments of cute and sweetness that made me giggle and smile. But there was a lot of telling what was happening before it got to a tale of a particular event. I think that is what made it so choppy and even slow moving and perhaps why I think it is only okay. It did give a good lesson on how we stick with things just because we know them like Grady stayed with Floyd when he had a chance to get out and have what he wanted. It also showed how, if we believe a lie long enough, we begin to believe it or how, if we tell enough lies, we begin to get good at them. Like I said, the book is okay but if someone told me they were going to read it, I wouldn't tell them not to. Someday, if I re-read it, I might have a different opinion after finding something I didn't see the first time.

Links - Learn more about the book and author at: http://www.jonathan-rogers.com/ . And take a look at the first chapter and other stuff at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9780307458223 .

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

The Healer's Apprentice

2011-01-23T12:47:00.001-06:00

Storyline - Rose, A woodcutter's daughter, becomes an apprentice to a healer which will keep her from being forced to marry (even though her mother has different ideas). She is a little squeamish of blood but tries hard to do her best. Then one day, the oldest son of the duke, Lord Hamlin, is hurt and she is the only one who can help him while her mistress is away. From there, love sparks between them but, because of their different stations and Lord Hamlin being betrothed, nothing can happen between them. Can they find a way to be together or will they always be kept apart? And will Lord Hamlin be able to find Moncore, the man after his betrothed? And is Lord Rupert's, Lord Hamlin's younger brother, affections to Rose sincere or is his motives distasteful?

Author - Melanie Dickerson

Age Group - 15 or 16 and up

Positive - The main man, Lord Hamlin, is chivalrous and honorable and is even willing to give up what he wants to honor a vow. Rose is caring and determined. Both are faithful and try to do the right thing. They pray often and listen to God to find their way. The resist temptation and fight evil (Rose even walks away from a boy she likes because he suggests something inmorale). They portray wonderful role models for teens of this day and age for both girls and boys (even though this is somewhat a historical book).

Negative - There is a lot of talk about what men thought about women during the middle ages and what women were wanted for but the book never goes into detail about that stuff (that is what make this book more appropriate for teens). There is a spot where a girl almost gets attacked but it doesn't go into any graphic detail. Lord Rupert is hinted to have missed used women in the past. Lord Rupert is once offered the Bishopric of their town even though he has no religious background and only wants it because it means lots of money (unfortunately, lay men where given religious offices back in that time so this situation is actually somewhat truthful). Also, 'wench' is used on occaision in the book but mostly as a description.
Writing - Melanie Dickerson wrote an enchanting love story about two people who can't be together but I did have a little difficulty seeing how this story was suppose to be based off the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. Also, how Moncore was supposed to try and cause demons to haunt Lord Hamlin's betrothed was strange for me but it gave a great lesson on what can be done in Jesus' name. The book is romantic and every girl would love a romance like this. The morals and lessons were wonderfully captured. The writing held one captive, wanting to know what would happen next until the end. This story was thrilling and the author is one to watch to see what comes next.

Personal Opinion - An enjoyment through the entire story. Rose was a fun person as she learned to love, follow God, and do the right thing. Lord Hamlin was an excellent role model for guys in chivalry and honor. I can't wait till the next fairy tale based book by this author comes out. This tale kept my attention and made me want more as it went on.

Links - Learn more about the book and the author at: http://www.melaniedickerson.com/index.html . You can also watch a book trailer there. Check out the author's blog here: http://www.melaniewrites.blogspot.com/

Awards - The author has won awards but I do not know if this book has.

Archives of Anthropos

2011-01-19T10:36:00.002-06:00

Storyline - Books 1-5 - The Sword Bearer, Gaal the Conqueror, Tower of Geburah, The Iron Septre, Quest for the King - This series is an allegory of children from our world who are called to another, Anthropos, to fight evil and grown in character and morals. As they are in Anthropos, they learn truths, about themselves and others, and learn how to defend themselves and trust in someone who loves them.

Author - John White

Age Group - 11 and up

Positive - The series promotes morals and fighting of evil. They also teach not to give into evil when it gets tough or seems hopeless. Also, they show forgiveness when the character does wrong, even when the character thinks they can't be forgiven or back to Gaal (the figure who depicts God or Jesus), he takes them back and tells them he loves them.

Negative - The characters do some naughty things but these are used to show that they are wrong things and what happens when you give into them. The children are also shown that you can still be forgiven of the bad things they do and can turn away for them. So they are necessary for the storyline so the characters can grow. Some of the things the characters do are listen to evil and turns their back on Gaal or the Changer, one joins a witches club and tries to do spells (no spells are chanted or told in detail in the story), and depend on themselves. In book 5, one character is jealous because his brother can see this blue smoke that is leading them somewhere but he can't. He knows he shouldn't be jealous but he says he can't help it. How this is solved is that he than can see the blue smoke. (There might have been the use of the 'a' word a few times but I can't remember too well)

Writing - John White wrote a interesting allegory of the Christian faith but is not the most intreging I have ever read. Don't get me wrong, I'm still glad I read them and would love to borrow to friends but I have read better. Sometimes you know that a particular character was in this group but now have no idea where they are because the author just stopped talking about them. Also, books 1 and 2 are very well written with wonderful storylines, are well told, and captivating. But books 3 and 4 are not the best of stories or as well told as the others. Book 5 was fine but I wished the ending had been a little better. The religious truths were wonderfully put together and shown in the books.

Personal Opinion - A series I enjoy reading and would like to read again and/or borrow to a friend. It is not the best series I have ever read but it is certainly not the worse either. The character are well developed and the storylines are interesting but, sometimes, the putting together wasn't so good. I am looking forward to the last book in the series, The Dark Lords Demise, which I have not read yet. If you can get your hands on this series, read them.

Links - There isn't a website for the series but I found some links that were interesting. This one (http://www.lamplighterpublishing.com/prodinfo.asp?number=AOA) has information about each book and this one (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archives_of_Anthropos) is wikipedia information.

Dragons in Our Midst

2011-01-18T11:13:00.003-06:00

Storyline - Book 1- Raising Dragons - Billy is a regular kid, with a regular family, with regular problems. Or so he thought. One day he finds out he is really part dragon. But that is not the only problem, a dragon slayer has come to kill them and the other part dragon kid Billy has become friends with, Bonnie. Will they be able to defeat the slayer and survive? And what exactly happened to the dragons?
Book 2 - The Candlestone - Bonnie's father has resurfaced and wants her back. But when she returns to Montana, her friends finds out that he isn't being completely truthful and go after him. Turns out, Bonnie's father has the candlestone and found a way for them to enter it. Can Bonnie's friends arrive in time and what is in the candlestone?
Book 3 - Circles of Seven - Billy and Bonnie have to enter the Circles of Seven to find the lost dragons. In the Circles, the are tempted and tried and have to defeat Morgan and Devin. Can they get through the Circles in one piece or will one pay the ultimate price? And what are these demon creatures that are in one of the Circles?
Book 4 - Tears of a Dragon - The final battle is near. There is just one more thing Billy and Bonnie have to do. They must go to where the dragon's spirits have been waiting to be freed and free them. Simple enough. But with Morgan on the loose and going after Billy's friends and the demons, the Watchers, getting ready for battle, the clock is ticking and everything is at stake. Also, the place where the dragons are is a strange place and not all the dragons believe Billy and Bonnie. Can they save the dragons and convince them to help them in this battle or is everything doomed?

Author - Bryan Davis

Age Group - 13 and up

Positive - The characters are honorable and self sacrificial. They fight the evil that is not only coming after the dragons but also the world. The characters grow in faith and trust as they are tempted and tried. Billy has to grow the most to believe in God, his father, and an ancient prophecy that causes much mystery throughout the series until the end. Bonnie caries the most trust and faith and helps her friends, especially Billy, to gain that trust. She also sacrifices herself to save another who had be held captive in one of the books.

Negative - There isn't much negative things in the books and, after re-reading the first one in the series, there are only a couple of things in the book that I don't like. A side character, Adam Lark, is a bully and mean to Billy and Bonnie. But instead of trying to understand him, even when it is hinted that his home life is not good, he is only pictured as a bad guy but he does puts himself in line with Devin because his family was threatened. He was only depicted and shown as something bad and not shown at all as a lost kid. The end battle scene in book one at one point was a little much for me in the description (lets just say one character gets hit in the head with a sword and, even though it is not really that graphic, I cringed). Plus, I see a mother letting their kid go off to meet a dragon slayer on their own, even if it is to help a friend.

Writing - Bryan Davis' writing is captivating and his storytelling original. The characters are good and try to do the right thing and the books tell and promote good morals and lessons.The wording and depictions are captivating and imaginative. This is an enjoyable author who is worth the time to read.

Personal Opinion - I find the books entertaining and interesting. The characters develop well over the series and the hummer within the books are funny and not inappropriate (even though Walter burps in at least one book but that is about as bad as the hummer gets). They can get a little strange for my taste once in a while, but when a new Bryan Davis book comes out, I want to read it. I personally like Tears of a Dragon the best but I am not sure why.

Links - Learn more about the series at: http://www.dragonsinourmidst.com/ and check out the author's blog at: http://dragonsinourmidst.blogspot.com/.

General Note - If you liked this series, check out the continuation series, Oracles of Fire, and just coming out this year, Children of the Bard. (I have not read Oracles of Fire so I can not rate how they are or talk about what is in them)

Awards - Not sure if this series won any awards but one or more did in the Oracles of Fire series.

The Dragon and the Turtle Go on Safari

2011-01-17T15:27:00.005-06:00

Storyline - Roger the turtle and Padraig the dragon are camping out and having an adventure to see wonderful animals. But as the night sounds get more mysterious, so do the ideas of what caused them. Trying to make it through the night is difficult and scary but when something needs there help, they go to them. Eventually, they decide to go Home when something great happens.

Author - Donita K. Paul and Evangeline Denmark

Illustrator - Vincent Nguyen

Age Group - 3 and up

Positive - The dragon and turtle face their fears and comfort each other when one of them is frightened. They also rescue a kitten-er-leopard even when they didn't know what would happen outside their tent. At the back of the book, it gives ideas on lessons from this book to emphasis with kids when read to/by them. It also has a Bible verse that relates to the story well.

Negative - There was nothing negative in this book.

Writing - Cute. Adorable. These writers make a wonderful story about a frightened dragon and turtle who learn to face their fears. The illustrator's pictures go great with the story and are cute. The pictures also cause giggles as they reveal more of what is going on in the story such as what really made the noise. A book I can't wait to share with a child.

Personal Opinion - A cute, tongue-in-cheek book that will put a smile on your face as you read it. It has good lessons and a helpful guide in the back as to what to talk about with kids when they hear this story. A book I could see myself giving at the next baby shower or kids birthday I attend. I wish there had been a little more description in the book but, none the less, a charming story with a dragon and turtle.

Links - There is a contest for the book at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/2011/01/10/contest-the-dragon-and-the-turtle-go-on-safari/ and its regular page is here: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9780307446459 and read an excerpt here: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9780307446459&view=excerpt .

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

To read, comment, and rate this and other reviews, stop by http://bookwormreading.blogspot.com/

Year End Book List

2011-01-11T10:52:00.000-06:00

At the beginning of 2010, I wondered how many books I could read in one year. With that, I recorded ever book I read that wasn't school related or anything like that. It was really fun and interesting as the numbers went up and up. So, I am going to share that list with you and the number of the total books (This doesn't mean that I recomend all the books I read or thought they were good. Interested in any on the list, post a comment about it or look at my shelfari to see if I gave a short review on it).

Young Adult:
Max Cassidy: Escape from Shadow Island by Paul Adam
The Frog Princess by E. D. Baker
The Berinfell Prophecies book 1:Curse of the Spider King by Wayne Thomas Batson and Christopher Hopper
The Berinfell Prophesies book 2: Venom and Song by Wayne Thomas Batson and Christopher Hopper
The Kingdom Series book 5:Kingdom's Quest by Chuck Black
The Kingdom Series book 6:Kingdom's Reign by Chuck Black
The Shakespeare Stealer book 1 by Gary Blackwood
The Shakespeare Stealer book 3: Shakespeare's Spy by Gary Blackwood
The King's Thane by Charles Brady
Robot Wars book 5: by Sigmund Brouwer
The Summer of the Swans by Betsy Byars
How to Train You Dragon book 1 by Crassida Cowell
How to Train Your Dragon book 2: How to be a Pirate by Cressida Cowell
How to Train Your Dragon book 3: How to Speak Dragonese by Cressida Cowell
How to Train Your Dragon book 4: How to Cheat a Dragon's Curse by Cressida Cowell
How to Train Your Dragon book 5: How to Twist a Dragon's Tale by Cressida Cowell
How to Train Your Dragon book 6: Hero's Guide to Deadly Dragons by Cressida Cowell
How to Train Your Dragon book 7: How to Ride a Dragon's Storm by Cressida Cowell
Dragons in Our Midst book 4: Tears of a Dragon by Bryan Davis
Dragons of Starlight book 1: Starlighter by Bryan Davis
The Fairy Tale Novels book 1: The Shadow of the Bear by Regina Doman
The Fairy Tale Novels book 2: Black as Night by Regina Doman
The Fairy Tale Novels book 4: The Midnight Dancers by Regina Doman
The Fairy Tale Novels book 5: Alex O'Donnell and the 40 Cybertheives by Regina Doman
Dragonsdale: Riding the Storm by Salamanda Drake
Santa Paws book 1 by Nicholas Edward
Santa Paws book 2: The Return of Santa Paws by Nicholas Edward
The Wall book 2: Beetle Bunker by Robert Elmer
The Wall book 3: Smuggler's Treasure by Robert Elmer
Ranger's Apprentice book 6: Siege of Macindaw by John Flanagan
Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George
Outcast book 1: The Un-Magician by Christopher Golden & Thomas E. Sniegoski
Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John Grisham
The Chronicle of Young Dastan by Catherine Hapka
The Worst Wish by Lissa Halls Johnson
Trapped by Peg Kehret
The Homelander Series book 2: The Long Way Home by Andrew Klavan
The Homelander Series book 3: The Truth of the Matter by Andrew Klavin
Girls Only (GO!) book 2: Only the Best by Beverly Lewis
Girls Only (GO!) book 3: A Perfect Match by Beverly Lewis
Girls Only (GO!) book 4: Reach for the Stars by Beverly Lewis
The Codebearer Series book 2: Hunter Brown and the Consuming Fire by the Miller Brothers
The Codebearer Series book 3: Hunter Brown and the Eye of Ends by the Miller Brothers
Night of the Twisters by Ivy Ruckman
The Star Trilogy book 1: The Dragon Boy by Donald Samson
The Youngest Templar book 2: Trail of Fate by Michael P. Spradlin
The Youngest Templar Series book 3: Orphan of Destany by Michael P. Spradlin
The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain

More for Grown Ups:
Petra: City in Stone by T. L. Higley
Reclaiming Nick by Susan May Warren
Taming Rafe by Susan May Warren
Finding Stefanie by Susan May Warren

Love Insperational:
Dreaming of Home by Glynna Kaye
Covert Pursuit by Terri Reed
Firestorm by Kelly Ann Riley
Secret Agent Father by Laura Scott

Autobiography/Biography:
Trevor's Song by T. A. Beam
C. S. Lewis: The Man Behind Narnia by Beatrice Gormley

In total, there are 58 books on this list. Some series I re-read during this year (which accounts for the strange numbering for some), other series I was starting, and some I was finishing. Like I said, any questions or comments about any of these books, feel free to leave a comment. Now, bring on 2011!

Petra: City in Stone

2010-12-31T11:36:00.006-06:00

Storyline - When Cassia's abusive husband dies, she and her son go in search of family in the city of Petra where it is discovered that her son is a prince. But after going to the palace and telling the royal family about what happened, her son is taken from her and she is sent away. As she tries to get her son back and save him from a jealous queen/priestess, Hagiru, Cassia makes friends of these people who worship in one God and trust in a redeemer by the name of Jesus. One of the followers of Jesus is a man named Julian who is running and trying to hide from a painful past and hurtful failures. Yet he is also being ask to be the future leader of the church in Petra. Can these two find their way to trust Jesus and accept his love or will they continue to fight under their own power to find what they are looking for and save Cassia's son.

Author - T. L. Higley

Age Group - 16 and up

Positive - Several good morals are presented and supported in the story of this ancient city. The believers in God prayed for their enemies at one time in the book which is refreshing because in most stories, and in life, people who someone doesn't like are considered not worth their time or energy. The coming of faith for the characters was well put together and thought out. The troubles were believable and their resistance and fight against going and relying on God was real and understandable. Everyone tries to do things and fix things under their own power and it is a struggle for them to place their entire trust and themselves God's hands. Their are people today who change themselves so others might accept them, like one of the character in the book, and don't understand how someone, even God, can love them for who they are and that they can be strong through Christ and that standing alone doesn't make you strong. Both of the main characters are running from something and it is only when they come to God that they can accomplish their goals.

Negative - There was not really anything that stood out for me as negative such as bad language or something of that kind in this book but there were a couple of things I wished were different. One was that there had been more information on Julian and his family. The other was that I thought the book ended a little abruptly and wished it had been a little longer and the characters, Julian, Cassia, and her son, Alexander, had interacted a little more before it all ended. Also, I was a little curious about some of the historical information such as what happened in the ending. Something big happens and I was just wondering how historically accurate it was. Then some of the details about how Cassia's son being the rightful heir to the kingdom considering some of the other details attributing to the situation in the book just didn't seem right to me. (But I am not a historian, I do not know how the government worked in Petra or in other ancient cities so it might all just be find historically. It also looks like these answers might be answered be some links provided on her website [links to her site are below]). Just some historical questions and some want of character information were the only things that I was left wondering about.

Writing Style - She author is a very good writer, able to make you feel for the characters and understand their struggles and fears. She even creeped me out with the description of Hagiru, the queen/priestess, and her communications with her gods and her hatred of others and Alexander. The book went together well and the faith struggle within each character was put together nicely and their coming of faith was done where it was believable and understandable and didn't leave you going "how did they get to that point?" She tied all the ends of the story of their faith walk together so in the end I wasn't left with questions on how they came to their conclusions in their faith in God. As Higley's web site says, there is no passport required to go on an adventure in this mysterious city but also there is no need for a time machine.

Personal Opinion - I was really excited when I found out that the city seen in the 3rd Indiana Jones movie was actually a real city (that wasn't a set or prop) which had people living in it and was called Petra. The book was exciting and interesting and I understood the characters and their troubles. I do wish that Julian's background was covered more in the book but it looks like a new book, Pompeii: City on Fire, is about his parents so that isn't too bad. Even though most of the book was brought together at the end nicely I still wondered about one character, Obadas, who was Hagiru's son, and what happened to him. Also, it was a little different having a prophet character in the book who saw the future and spoke to God and then God spoke back but that was probably because I never read a book with one in it so it was just new for me. I do believe in prophets and that God speaks to people, some more directly than others, but it was just different. All in all, good book and definitely recommended, especially for those who like adventure, historical stories, and ancient cities.

Links - More information can be found on Petra and other books by this author and the author herself at: http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/nopassportrequired/ & http://nopassportrequired.tlhigley.com/

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The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader movie review

2010-12-20T15:25:00.007-06:00

Went to the new Narnia movie on the 19th and it was great. It begins with the Lucy and Edmund at their cousin's house, Eustace, when they are taken back to Narnia through a painting, their cousin along with them. There, they meet Caspian again and go on a voyage on the Eastern Sea to find seven lost Lords who served his father. But also they have to find seven swords and lay them at Aslan's Table in order to stop some evil that originates from an island. At the end of the journey is said to be Aslan's Country and what sort of wonderful things are there are just waiting to be seen.With each island, they meet one adversity or another and have many temptations, each with their own consequence. Their are many battles and enemies along the way that they have to fight to finally get to their destination and complete their quest.

Their are a lot of great things in this movie. I loved the scene when Aslan talks to Lucy after he temptation and I loved the relationship of Reepicheep and Eustace, especially after he becomes a dragon. The story stays to the original book well but the situations and islands are all out of order from the book but that is quite forgivable. Also, even though they White Witch is in the film, that is also okay because of how they worked her in and it makes sense.

Despite all the good, there were some problems. The transition between one island and another was at times uncomfortable and choppy. At least the Lone Island was a little rushed to me so it was difficult to absorb before they left for another island but that was probably because of time restraints. The biggest problem I had was when Edmund and Caspian were tempted and it wasn't Aslan that brought them back but another character that fixed it. Also, Dark Island seemed to be conquered by the characters as well instead of Aslan (if it was Aslan in some way, they didn't make it very clear).

The acting was good and the characters portrayed the temptations of today such as being beautiful and greed wonderfully. The casting was great as well; the boy who played Eustace was a wonderful nuisance and when he changed you did like him and the captain of the Dawn Treader was good too, I could see a captain behave like him and could also see him as a captain of a ship (but maybe I just like the accent). I really like the animation, Reepicheep was great with is hair color (and I liked how much he got to talk in the film and his personality was really developed and made you even more attached to him than before as something more than just a fighting mouse), Eustace's eyes and dragon look was cool, and Aslan's color was perfect (I remember being irritated in Prince Caspian when he didn't look like a normal lion, his hair color was off and it just bugged me something terrible). The design of the sets and the Dawn Treader its self brings back how things looked and felt before Prince Caspian which was beautiful and wonderful. The movie was filled with these images and helped if feel bright and uplifting. I feel this movie was better than Prince Caspian but I still like The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe better because it ran smoother than this one from one situation to the next. I also wish Aslan was in the film more and that the overcoming of temptations and the evil of the world was attributed more to him but I know for sure that I will be buying this movie when it comes out on DVD.

If you want to know more about the movie, check out its website at: http://www.narnia.com/

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Coming Soon

2010-12-12T14:45:00.001-06:00

Sorry about there not being any new posts for a while. With school and finals and presentations and textbooks and trying to find a new school, I'm just not reading like I usually do and I am probably watching to much TV. But, I am hoping to have some new reviews here soon (probably over Christmas break) and here is a few of the books that will be coming up:

Petra by T. H. Higley - A faithful widow and her son are surprised to learn he is heir to the throne in the epic rock-hewn city of Petra. Upon learning the news, the bloodthirsty queen begins to plot his murder.

The Limit by Kristen Landon - In a world not too far removed from our own, kids are being taken away to special workhouses if their families exceed the monthly debt limit imposed by the government. Thirteen-year-old Matt briefly wonders if he might be next.

I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore - Nine alien teenagers are hiding on Earth. Three are dead. Number Four is next. This is the launch of a gripping, action-packed series already optioned for film by Steven Spielberg for DreamWorks. (Just waiting for library to get it in.)

Good Recorces for Writers - This post will be about two books that are helpful for writing (one is really good if writing fantasy) and good if need to look anything.

More on the How to Train You Dragon Series.

Voyage of the Dawn Treader movie review - I love the Narnia movies and books so I will probably write about the movie here.

Also, I hope to be putting up an excerpt from the book I am writing soon, I just have to get farther in the edits. I hope that will be exciting and I hope that these books will spark some interests. Also, if anyone has any ideas on how to make this blog better, go ahead and leave a comment on this post. Thanks for stopping! The Limit, I am Number Four, and Petra information was copied and pasted from Borders.com.

The Youngest Templar

2010-11-20T17:38:00.005-06:00

Storyline - Book 1 - Keeper of the Grail - Tristan is an orphan with no knowledge of his past living at St. Alban's when a group of Templars stay for the night and one of them asks him to be his squire. When he accepts, Tristan is in for training and fighting in the Third Crusade in the Holy Land with Richard III. But, when the town they are in is under siege and about to be taken, Tristan's knight, Sir Thomas, sends him on one last duty. He entrusts to him the Holy Grail and tells him to deliver it to Scotland. On his way, Tristan meets up with an archer, Robard Hode, and an assassin, Maryam, who help him. He also has an enemy on his trail, Sir Hugh, who wants the Grail. At any cost.

Book 2 - Trail of Fate - Tristan washes up on the shores of France and meets a group of Cathars, and their leader Celia, who are in trouble with some powerful men. Tristan has to decide if he can help them and still guard the Grail. Especially with Sir Hugh on his trail and a new enemy lurking a head.

Book 3 - Orphan of Destiny - England at last! This should be easy for the three travelers, right? No. England is under heavy taxes by Prince John who is ruling the kingdom. Sir Hugh is still on the trail. And, if that isn't enough, Tristan is hurt. On their way, they are met with even more difficulties, such as the Sheriff of Nottingham who is taxing Robard's home harshly and hurting its people. Will they ever make it to there destination in Scotland with all the things standing in the way ansd Sir Hugh appearing at every corner to take the Grail? And will the answers to Tristan's birth and family be answered when everyone seems to know about it but him?

Author - Michael P. Spradlin

Age Group - 12 and up

Positive - "Honor, duty, and sacrifice" (Orphan of Destiny, Chap. 38, Pg. 252) is not only the Templar morals but also the theme with in the series. When Tristan and Robard are attacked by the Assassins and one gets hurt, Robard has every intention of killing him but Tristan is willing to sacrifice himself to save a defenseless man, even one who just tried to kill him. Tristan stays true to his knight and friends, even when they go and get themselves in trouble. Tristan is willing to give any thing for the safety of his friends. Robard is a caring and protective character even with his hot head and vengeful spirit, who would do anything for his friends. Robard has a chance to kill the man he feels killed his father but lets him go. Maryam is the voice of reason and can get to what is troubling someone. She also is someone they group can depend on is sticky situations and is willing to listen and give support when needed. The dog, Angel, is a pretty neat character as well.

Negative - Robard is very hot headed and vengeful. He tries to kill someone who just tried to kill him and Tristan even though they are unarmed and defenseless. He also has every intention to kill the man he feels responsible for killing his father and making his mother's life difficult. Tristan has had enough of Sir Hugh and him endangering his friends and feels the only way to get the knight to stop is to kill him. Tristan kills in rage and anger once. There were some sware words in book two.

Finish - A series I heartily enjoyed over the last couple of years as they came out one by one. I also enjoyed the endings (cliffhangers). I also like the end of this series which is always an important thing for me and, if any more stories can be told about Tristan and his friends, I would love to read them. Sword fights, chase scenes, and good writing and morals bring this book together for a great read which will make you want to know what happens next. Recommend to anyone who loves adventure and/or books placed in a historical setting. A great series worth the time to read.

Links - Learn more about the series at: http://theyoungesttemplar.com/

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The Homelanders Series

2010-11-10T16:53:00.005-06:00

Storyline - Book 1 - The Last Thing I Remember - Charlie West is an average teenager: Goes to school, has a crush on a girl, wants to join the air force, and is a black belt in karate. But one night, after going to sleep in his own bed, he wakes up strapped to a chair being torchered by a group of terrorists by the name of the Homelanders. Not only that, a year of his life is gone and he can't remember what happened. Also, (as if the above stuff wasn't enough) he is convicted of a murder of an old friend.

Book 2 - The Longest Way Home - Charlie's home and trying to figure out what happened. But when his friends insist on helping out, it might be more than any of them can chew.

Book 3 - Charlie finally finds a man by the name of Waterman who is some how connected to his past. But when Waterman says he has to chain Charlie to a chair and give him an injection that will be painful, how it Charlie to know if he is on his side? Or is he another enemy? And what exactly is hidden in his memory? And how far behind are the Homelands?

Author - Andrew Klavan

Age Group - 15 and up (at least in high school because of at least one mature situation in book 1)

Positive - Charlie tries to do the right thing and find out the truth, even if that truth is not what he wants. He looks out for his friends and is trusting in his faith. In book 1, a women is being attacked and Charlie intervenes to protect her, even though he doesn't even know her. At the end of book 1, he tries to help someone else and gets himself accused as a bad guy. He looks after others before himself. When Charlie is sick, the woman who's house Charlie broken into cares for him even though he broke and entered, showing she was willing to help someone who needed it even though they did wrong.

Negative - Like stated before, a woman is attacked in book 1 but it is not graphic or detailed but makes the book in appropriate for anyone below high school (I just don't think a younger person should be exposed to the idea). Charlie has doubts at least once and feels God tells him "he has no where to go" which is quite hopeless and not something God would say. But Charlie does come back from that and I think he knows God didn't abandon him. He brakes into a house and eats someone else's food but does leave them money.

Finish - Fascinating and original storyline and idea. As one person said (I can't remember who or where I read this) but these books is The Fugitive and The Bourne Identity mixed together. I have to agree with that assessment. It can move a little slow and things can be repeated more than they have to but the books leave you wanting to know what happens next.

Links - You can learn more about the series at: http://www.thehomelanders.com/index.php and at: http://www.thomasnelson.com/consumer/

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Summer of the Swans

2010-10-25T19:52:00.004-05:00

Storyline - Sara is an ordinary teen whose life is falling apart because her shoes are the wrong color and she's not pretty enough. But when her mentally handicap brother goes missing, she learns about what really matters in life and forgiving others, even when it means admitting you were wrong.

Author -Betsy Byars

Age Group - 9 or 10 and up

Positive - Sara learns a lot about family and what is really important in life. She also learns not to make quick assumptions about people and to forgive when found wrong. Aunt informs Sara about an someone who was consumed with hate for certain people to the day he died and told her not to be like him.

Negative - Sara is a little bit of a brat in the beginning but then she wouldn't have a chance to grow. She tries to justify when she takes revenge on people for her handicapped brother but her aunt tries to tell her that holding on to angry will just consume her life. I think she got this in the end.

Finish - A sweet tale about life and a teenager growing up for childish things to seeing the more important things in life and appreciating family. There is an interesting metaphor at the end about life and what we do with it but I'll leave that for your own interpretation.

Links - None but can learn more at wikipedia

Awards - 1971 Newbery Award winner

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The Adventures of Santa Paws

2010-10-22T19:00:00.004-05:00

Storyline - Book 1: Santa Paws - A young puppy looses his mother and siblings so goes on the hunt to look for them. Along the way, he meets nice people who he wishes would take him home with them and saving people and bringing hope to them during the Christmas season. His heroics eventually gets him the name Santa Paws.

Book 2: The Return of Santa Paws - Christmas a year later. Santa Paws and his family is flying to a cabin in the mountains for Christmas when they crash and it is left to Santa Paws and his human kids to find help before it is to late.

Author - Nicholas Edwards

Age Group - 10 and up (The book is a simple read but their are somethings in it like how a woman feels a year after her husband dies and a woman that is living in her car with her children after loosing her job and home that maybe more appropriate and understandable to an older age group.)

Positive - Sweet and charming tale about a dog. Santa Paws likes helping people (mostly because he gets attention) and tries to do the right thing among the town. It was interesting to see how the dog perceived the people and what the people saw of the dog. The things the dog does are miracle like and real dogs doing these type of things this character does have happened. In book 2, the kids and Santa Paws keep fighting even when it gets hard and everything seems lost.

Negative - In book 1,the dog sometimes thinks that the people has abandoned him and wonders if he will ever see them again as the people worry that the dog will think that they abandoned him. This might make kids worry that their dog does think like that and gives them a defense for their case.

Finish - The story was cut though young for me but that is a personal opinion. Younger kids will enjoy the delightful Santa Paws though some of the situations in the book they may not understand. Just on a personal note, when the family goes to a service for the whole town on Christmas meant to make everyone feel welcome no matter their believes, a priest says that "it wasn't about religion, it was about community. It was about neighbors." As being neighbors is all well and good, there is something to say about religion and it being important. We should definitely be neighborly to others around us because that is how we want others to treat us. With respect. I'm just not sure how true this statement is. Something I need to research for myself. But in the end, it is still a good and sweet book and it has a good Christmas spirit to it, would recommend for kids who love dogs.

Links - None. Some information on Wikipedia and a list of other Santa Paws books.

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The Shakespeare Stealer Series

2010-10-04T18:38:00.005-05:00

Storyline - Book 1: The Shakespeare Stealer -Young, orphan boy whose only known as Widge is told by his new master to steal a play by master playwright Shakespeare. Having no other choice, Widge tries to do so but ends up undercover in the company to steal the play. Eventually he has to make a choice, his master or the only family he has ever known.
Book 3: Shakespeare's Spy- The plague and the queen's dying health is the trouble in the beginning in this book. But when Widge has his fortune told to him, he is very confused and when it is read a second time is worried about if it will come true. Plus, things have been disappearing from the acting company. Mr. Shakespeare's daughter is visiting and Widge begins to lose his heart strings. Soon, news that an old friend is in trouble and Widge starts thinking about writing a play to impress Shakespeare's daughter and help his friend. What is a prentice to do?

Author - Gary Blackwood

Age Group - 12 and up
(This review is mostly about book 3, Shakespeare's Spy, because that is the one I most recently read and book 2 is not covered at all because I didn't read it for some reason)

Positive - Widge is a loyal friend and tries to do the right thing even when he's not sure what it is. The books also teach about how the theatre was back during the rule of Queen Elizabeth and names some classical plays. There is also some other historical factors in the series like a short hand that Widge is particularly good at which the author says is real.

Negative - Fortunetelling, for one, is in book 3 and it ends with Widge thinking everything is decided by fate. He also lies on occasion and helps a man escape from prison so he could get information to help a friend. The book also mentioned about how Catholics were persecuted during Queen Elizabeth's reign and how one of the main characters were hurt by some Catholics in a different acting company but doesn't help the character see in the end that not all Catholic are like that which is why this is in the 'negative' section. The priest we meet in the book is trying to help Catholics (which is good) and hiding from the police but helps Widge lie at least once There was also very little spying in the book for it to be part of its name.

Finish - The series had a bitter sweet ending that I didn't like. Widge was alone even though he was looking forward to the future but he also believed more in fate and that he couldn't change the predictions that the fortune teller told him. He had gone back to her the last time so he could know the future to avoid future heart aches such as who should he get close to and who not to after being hurt be several characters. The series would have been better without the fortune telling and if Widge had a happier ending. I wish it had been taught that you couldn't know the future and just because you were hurt by something it doesn't mean you should try and avoid people because you might get hurt because would he really trade knowing any of his friends just because they are gone? Also he should learn from his mistakes, like when Widge felt responsible for a friend who got hurt, and try to do differently in the future. Widge and the characters are good and the books can be interesting I just personally wish they ended differently.

Links - Learn more about the series at: http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780525473206,00.html#

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