O. HENRY LIBRARY
  • Home
  • Reading
    • Book Lists
    • Trailers
    • eBooks
    • Recommend a Book
    • Book Clubs
  • Research
    • Evaluating Sources
    • Citing Sources
    • Class Research Wikis
  • Student Book Reviews
  • Student Book Review Form
  • Past Library Events

Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys

Picture
It's about a young, aspiring Texan photographer who goes to Spain with his family during the dictator Franco's regime. He meets a young Spanish woman who works as a maid in the deluxe hotel where he stays. Together they solve mysteries about Franco's rule and missing children. Even though it's historically based, the reader can't help but keep turning the pages to see what happens.

Recommended for readers who enjoyed Salt to the Sea, also by Ruta Sepetys

                                     Library Aide: Xochi

Out of My Mind
by Sharon Draper

Picture
This is a book about a girl with cerebral palsy. It's about her journey and how she deals with it. I like this book because it offers a really unique perspective.

Recommended for readers who enjoyed Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt.
                             
​                                              Library Aide: Lydia

Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

Picture

Red Queen is about a world divided by red and silver blood. Mare Barrow is a poor Red, destined to live a low life. A series of events lead Mare to the silver palace where she learns she has the power of a Silver. But her blood is still red. I like this book because I haven't really read a book like it and there are some serious plot twists.

Recommended for readers who like The Selection series.
​                                             Library Aide: Addie


Bubble by Stewart Foster

Picture
Bubble is a book about an 11-year-old boy named Joe who can't go outside and has to stay in a hospital room all his life. Joe also has a friend who has the same conditions and goes through the same problems with him, but he lives in a different country. One day a doctor visits and changes Joe's life. Although this book can be sad at moments, it includes unpredictable plot twists.

​                                                                        Library Aide: Gabby

As Small as an Elephant by Jennifer Richard Jacobson

Picture
A boy named Jack and his bipolar mom go on a camping trip together on the last weekend before school starts. Jack wakes up one morning of the camping trip to find that his mother has disappeared. He searches for her on this incredible journey through Maine. But one thought plagues him: when he finds her, will he forgive her?

​                                                                     Library Aide: McKenna

Renegades by Marissa Meyer

Picture
Set in a world where superpowers and heroes are the norm, Nova is a villain wanting to bring down the system and show the world how heroes really are. The author is a great world builder and motivates readers to keep turning the pages.

​                                                                          Library Aide: Willow

Learning to Swear in America

Picture
Recommended for: Boys and Girls who like realistic fiction. 

Learning to Swear in America by Katie Kennedy is a book about Yuri Strelnikov, Russian boy wonder and 17 year old boy who graduated from high school when he was twelve and is an expert physicist. Yuri is called upon by America's NASA to help in the destroying of the BR1019 asteroid that is planned to hit Los Angeles.  Can Yuri help with his genius to save the people of Los Angeles? I like Learning to Swear in America because there's a lot of suspense that builds up the plot and lots of comedy.
​                                                                                       
                                                                    Book Review by Jack , 8th grader




Ramona Blue by Julie Murphy

Picture
Recommended for: Boys and Girls who like realistic fiction

Ramona Blue by Julie Murphy is about a teenage girl named Ramona. Ramona struggles with high school, being a lesbian, her family, including her pregnant sister, all stuck in a tiny trailer home, and an old friend named Freddie, coming back to Eulogy. Follow Ramona as  she dives straight into the world and learns more about herself and her small town. I liked Ramona Blue because it’s an interesting coming- of- age story with a hilarious family and a crazy plot twist; it is most definitely a page turner.

​                                                                              Book Review by Ella, 8th grader

Ghetto Cowboy by G. Neri

Picture
Recommended for: Boys and Girls who like realistic fiction.

Ghetto Cowboy by G. Neri is about a boy named Cole. One day Cole’s mom gets a call from his school and finds out Cole has been skipping for fourteen days. His mom decides she can’t put up with it anymore, so she moves him to Philly to live with his estranged dad in the ghetto. Cole is really scared and crying in an old shed where he meets a horse named Boo.
Ghetto Cowboy is a great book with lots of drama and a likable main character. Does Boo end up changing Cole’s life? Read Ghetto Cowboy to find out!  
​                                                  Book Review by Ray, 8th grader

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Picture
  Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer is a true story about Christopher McCandless and his solo journeys around the western United States and into Alaska.  This book is great for somebody who wants to learn and read about traveling and adventure.  I learned a lot about how to survive in the wild.  The author made me I feel like I was there with Chris the whole time. I would definitely recommend you read this amazing non-fiction book.

                                                               Book Review by Will, 8th grader

Rot and Ruin by Jonathan Maberry

Picture
Recommended for people who like action books

Rot and Ruin is not just a book about killing zombies and surviving.  This book is different in a way that will make you not want to stop reading it--ever.  The first book in the series is about Benny Imura, the main character, who needs to get a job or his rations will be cut.  He is having trouble finding a job, so he tries to work with his brother as a bounty hunter. Benny learns a lot about the real world and how preparation means everything.  In this book you will find action, drama, and friendship. I strongly recommend this book because there was never a boring patch, and the whole series is great. 

​                                                     Book Review by Will, 8th grader

The Martian by Andy Weir

Picture
 Recommended for 8th graders who love Science and survival stores

On sol (day) six of an early manned mission to Mars, the astronauts on the Ares 3 mission site were told to abandon the mission due to a sandstorm that escalated to severe. On the way to the shuttle, astronaut Mark Watney was hit by debris, and the other astronauts were forced to leave without him. Now Mark Watney is alone on Mars with food to last for thirty days, but chances are he will die long before he starves to death because of the damaged machinery. How will he find contact with earth? How will he fix all the equipment? And even if he does, how will he survive while waiting for the next mission to Mars since a mission takes four years? On a planet where no food will grow?

If you like books about science and problem solving, this is the book for you. 

                                                       Book Review by Camilo, 8th grader

We Are All Made of Molecules by  Susan Nielsen

Picture
Recommended for: Boys and Girls who like Realistic Fiction

We Are All Made of Molecules is a really funny book told from two very different perspectives. Stewart is a 13 year old boy who is extremely smart but terrible with people. Ashley is a 14 year old girl who is at the top of the social ladder in her grade. Stewart and his dad move in with Ashley and her mom after Stewart’s mom dies of cancer and Ashley’s parents get a divorce because her dad is gay. I really liked this book because of how funny it was and how you get to know the characters really well.

                                                               Book Review by Gilly, 8th grader

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

Picture
Recommended for Boys and Girls:
​Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children is about a boy named Jacob who goes on an adventure to an island off the coast of Wales. There he finds an orphanage where his grandfather used to live. During this time, he discovers that his grandfather's stories were actually true, and Jacob starts to find out more secrets about his grandfather's past. I really liked the characters, and I never knew what was going to happen next.
                                                                                  by Katie, 8th grade library aide

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black

Picture
Recommended for Boys and Girls, People who like horror/suspense
First off, this book is amazing. If you check out the real-life hardcover from O.Henry, yes, I know it looks daunting, but trust me. You will blow through that book in a week, easy. I love the writing style, characters, everything. A warning to those not so comfortable with gore-- keep a bucket handy. it can get pretty gross. Also best not to read at night.
                                                                          by Julia, 7th grader

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Picture
Recommended for Boys and Girls, People Who Like Fantasy

Graceling is an amazingly well written book about a kingdom with special people that live in it with attributes called Graces. Graces are identified when the person has two eyes of different color. Graces are really rare, and very few people in the kingdom have Graces anymore. Graceling is centered around one main character named Katsa who has the Grace of killing people with her bare hands. Because of her Grace, Katsa is forced to work for the king and soon meets Prince Po. Even more unexpected, she never realizes that she would become Po’s friend. But the kingdom is hiding a secret that she will need all of the help she can get to uncover.
                                                                                        by Katy, 8th grader

Every Day by David Levithan

Picture
Recommended for Boys and Girls, People who like Fantasy

I used to hate reading until I read Every Day this book was amazing!! I love Every Day!!! This book made me start reading again!
                                                                                        by Katie, 8th grader
Picture

The Cirque du Freak series by Darren Shan
For Boys and Girls, People Who Like Horror/Suspense/Mystery
The books are vampires and horror. There is a kid named Darren Shan, and he is transformed into a vampire, but he regrets it. After awhile his master was like a father, and vampires are in a war called the War of Scars. They are in a war with the Vampaneze and the Vampets. Vampets are humans that have agreed to take the side of being evil, and Vampaneze are like Vampires, but they are the bad guys, and they kill when they are hungry. This book is a real adventure that teaches a lesson on being a nice person rather than being a rude person. Have Fun Reading It!!!                       
​                                                                                                   by Michael, 7th grader

Skyward by Brandon Sanderson

Picture
Skyward is an action-packed sci-fi book about humanity fighting an alien species called the Krell. The main character, Spensa, has to get into flight school and survive the invasion. I like this book because it is full of action and is very interesting. There's already a sequel: Starsight.

Recommended for readers who enjoyed: Renegades by Marissa Meyer
                                                       Library Aide: Trep

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Picture
The Book Thief is a tale of Nazi Germany narrated by Death. This book concept follows through fully and skillfully; this book has a great understanding of consequences, as every action has a very reasonable reaction. If you want to read a well written and dramatic tale of youth, pick up this book today.

Recommended for readers who enjoyed Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank.

​                                                  Library Aide: Ben
​

Dreamfall by Amy Plum

Picture
The book is about kids who all have sleeping problems, so they all go to this mental hospital. They go on crazy adventures together with a lot of unpredictable twist and turns. If you like books that are fast paced and heart dropping, read Dream Fall!

Recommend the sequel also: Neverwake

​                                      Library Aide: Kimora

Ready Player One by Earnest Cline

Picture
Ready Player One is about a virtual reality world called the OASIS. The creator of the OASIS, James Halliday, dies and leaves everything he owns to the winner of the Easter Egg hunt in his game. The main character. Wade Wilson, spends all of his time searching for it. This book will drag you into its world, and before you know it, you'll be finished.
If you like this book, you'll like his book, Armada.

                                                           Library Aide: George

Street Pharm by Allison Van Diepen

Picture
Street Pharm is all about survival. Ty Johnson is trying to keep his dad's business going. His father is a big drug dealer in the neighborhood, but if there's any competition, his business goes down. Ty falls in love with a girl who's studying to become a prosecutor to put drug dealers behind bars. It's up to Ty to keep his business going, but at the same time, to keep it a secret.

                                                                        Library Aide: Jenny

When by Victoria Laurie

Picture
When​ is about a girl, Maddie Fynn, a shy 16-year-old, cursed with an eerie ability: she sees the death date of everyone she sees. As a young child, she had no idea what the numbers meant. When her police officer dad dies in a shootout with drug dealers, it's an unhappy realization. It's also the beginning of her mother's drinking. She forces Maddie to tell people about their death dates for money. It's not a great life, but not terrible, until children whose death dates she's read start to be murdered, and the FBI decides she looks like a prime suspect. When is an addicting, suspenseful read with great imagery and details. I enjoyed this book a lot and recommend it to anyone.

                                                              Library Aide: Megan

Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein

Picture
This book is very well written poetry. The writing of the poems is not to short but it is not too long, so it does not seem like a fiction book. The pictures are so well drawn, and they give a really good representation of what is going on in the poems. This was my starter book for poetry, and I have loved poetry ever since.

​                                                                        Library Aide: Lauren

House Arrest by K.A. Holt

Picture
Recommended for: Boys and Girls who like realistic fiction.
House Arrest is about a boy named Tim who made a bad decision just so he could help out his sick little brother. Because he breaks the law, he is under house arrest and has to keep a journal, which is the book you’re reading.  I like this book because it’s told from the perspective of an 8th grade boy. Because it’s written in verse and not too long, you can read it fast. If you like this book you should also read Rhyme Schemer by the same author.     
​                 
​                     Book Review by Jack, 8th grader


                                                                            

Simon Vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda

Picture
Recommended for: 8th graders

Simon vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli tells the story of a 16- year -old boy named Simon who is trying to get through his high school in an Atlanta suburb while keeping a huge secret from everyone: he’s gay. He can’t even tell his best friends. But when he starts sending romantic messages to another boy at his school, who goes under the code name “Blue," a guy named Martin  catches him in the act. What will happen when Martin decides to blackmail Simon about it? This is the perfect book for any teenager, gay or straight, because it is ultimately the most relatable book I have ever read. You will fall in love with the characters, and  enjoy following Simon on his journey to find love and finally meet “Blue."

                                                                     Book Review by Ford, 8th grader




Room by Emma Donaghue

Picture
Recommended for 8th grade girls
Room by Emma Donoghue is a novel about a young mother and her son, held captive in a room by a man who kidnapped the mother when she was nineteen. The five-year-old son, Jack, narrates the story. All he has ever known is “room.” The outside world is an unknown area, as they only see through a dim skylight. Room is full of change, compassion, perseverance and the love between mother and child.  
                                                                                         
​                                                                       Book Review by Kaija, 8th grader




Redwall series by Brian Jacques

Picture
Recommended for student to read Fantasy

  Redwall is the first book inside of series. The characters of these books are different woodland characters. The main character’s name is name Matthias, and he lives with the other characters inside of an abbey. Matthias was an orphan who was brought in when he was very young. There is a ghost of a long- dead mouse, whose name is Martin, who sometimes helps them when they are in need. In this case Martin helps Matthias go traveling in search of his sword, which was said to hold magical powers. Martin was one of the abbey’s founders who helped ward off all the evil creatures from the land. The antagonist is a rat called Cluny the Scourge. Matthias is trying to find out who he is and what his role is in the abbey. When danger comes, he has to be ready to save the day. From dangerous carrion to thousands of rats, Matthias has to protect the abbey with or without any help. If you like action or adventure then this is the book and series for you.

                                                                  Book Review by Nico, 8th grader





The Great American Whatever  by Tim Federle

Picture
The Great American Whatever is about a sixteen-year-old boy named Quinn Roberts, who is struggling with the recent death of his older sister, Annabeth. They used to make movies together, and she would direct them while Quinn would write the screenplays. 
Quinn's best friend, Geoff, forces him out of the house to attend a college party where Quinn meets an older boy named Amir. Quinn falls for him fast and is determined to develop some sort of relationship. 
Quinn is scared that his friends will tell Amir about Annabeth's death, causing Amir to pity him.  He ends up running into his childhood hero, who is now a Hollywood star, and his outlook on his personal "Hero's Journey" changes.
I enjoyed this book because it included a lead whom was a part of the LGBT+ community, but Federle didn't flaunt that around as I've seen many writers do. It is an enticing, easy-to-follow story that will make you think about your own "Hero's Journey." I highly recommend The Great American Whatever to anyone who enjoys sarcastic and somewhat dark humor. 

Paper Towns by John Green

Picture
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, if you like realistic fiction

Paper Towns is a great book. It has a little bit of action and a lot of mystery. The main character is named Quentin and has always liked this girl named Margo who lives across the street from him. Then one night Margo knocks on his window and asks for his car. Then the adventure begins. If you like mystery, then this is a great book for you even if you don't like to read. 
​                                                            Book Review by Emily, 8th grader

Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins

Picture
Recommended for Just Girls, Those who like Realistic Fiction

I really liked this book because you get so connected with the characters, and you can feel their emotions and understand why they feel the way they do. It also has a lot of culture in it; you learn a bit about France but in a good and fun way. The way Isla and Josh fall in love is so beautiful; they understand each other very much. It's just great.
This is probably my favorite book right now and its amazing. JUST READ IT. 
​                                                      Review by Julie, 8th grader

Th13teen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Picture
Recommended for Boys and Girls, People who like horror/suspense/mystery, People who like realistic fiction

​It had been a few weeks since Hannah Kaker killed herself. Clay Jensen comes home one day to find a shoebox full of audiotapes from none other than Hannah Baker herself. Does he dare listen to the tapes? Should he take the chance? All he can do is press play...

I really really liked this book. I felt the way it was written, the way the characters spoke, acted, and existed was very deep and poetic. It felt funny, sad, and distressing. It was interesting to see how the tragedies in the plot made it better and more interesting. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading, who enjoys suspense and mystery, and to anyone who doesn't mind tragedies in their books.
                                                                    by Alec, 8th grader

The Selection by Kiera Cass

Picture
The Selection by Kiera Cass is a romantic and suspensful book. The main character, America, enters a competition to marry the prince of Illea. She enters it because her mother made her, and she just wants out of the competition, but she didn't expect to fall for the prince . This is the book for you if you like romance and a bit of suspense.
                                                                                        by Areli, 8th grader

The Peculiar by Stefan Bachman

Recommended for People who like Fantasy
​

I like this book because it about a faery boy named Bartholomew and his faery sister, Hettie. They have to hide from the outside world because they are peculiar and because of a faery and human war that happened earlier in London. There is a faery capturing society who skin faery kids. They kidnapped Hettie. Bartholomew sets out to get his sister back.
                                                        by Kendra, 8th grader

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Picture
I like this book because it is full of mystery, suspense, and action. I think that other people should read this book because it's so well written, that you really sink into the pages. When I first read this book I couldn't out it down!

The Maze Runner is about a boy named Thomas. He wakes up in a big metal box, with no memory of anything. When the box opens, he is greeted by many teenaged boys.  One of the boys, who is obviously the leader of the group, assigns a younger boy  to give Thomas a grand tour of the village  and answer any questions asked.
Of course, Thomas has many questions, such as about the huge vine- covered stone walls  that have big openings in them  like doorways. His guide explains that outside the protective walls  is a maze. The only people that are allowed to go in and out of the walls, are called the Maze Runners.

This book is about the adventure of Thomas and the mysteries of the maze that seemed to trap them all inside. Thomas must find a way out, and protect his friends, and even his enemies, from the horrors of the ​

Across the Universe by Beth Revis

Recommended for:  Boys and Girls, People who like Science Fiction, People who like horror/suspense/mystery
I liked Across the Universe because it builds up lots of suspense and it has a thrilling opening. It has lots of mystery it is a completely un-put-downable book. It's one of the best books I have read!!!! :).
                                                                            *book review by Benjamin, 6th grader

The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

Dear Mr. Chainani:
 When I first started your book, I couldn't stop reading it.  Only teachers could make me stop reading it by taking your book away from me.  It was the first book I read that was long, and that I read in a short amount of time, only five days. I never knew I could read so many pages, because most of the time when I start a book that was half the size of yours, I would stop in the middle because it was too long, and I wasn't interested enough in the book to finish it.  I hope that you will write a second book as amazing, or more amazing than this book, because I need another really good book to read this summer.  I liked your book because I really wanted to know the ending and I liked the mystery of which character was really the evil one.  The ending of your book was really annoying, because I didn't know how it ended, and it left me wondering what had happened to the two main characters.  Thank you, you have opened my eyes to the pleasure of reading giant books.
                                                                                                                                      
        letter to the author by Nandy, 6th grader, soon to be seventh grader

A Million Suns by Beth Revis

A Million Suns is the second book in the Across the Universe trilogy.  This book had an extremely big grip on me.  I could not stop reading; it has lots of suspense and mystery. Just like the first book every single page is surprising. - B :)  
                                                                                               *book review by Benjamin, 6th grader

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
Book Review by Brianna, 7th grade
Shatter Me is a really good book once you start.  You keep reading, and then you cant stop reading it.  I love this book. Read it and you will see. It's the BEST BOOK EVER!!!!!!

My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
Recommended for: People who like Realistic Fiction
I liked this book because it really made me look and read between the lines of people's lives. I also like it because was a real life account of people who really do have cancer.
                                                                                                                                   *Caroline, 8th grader
Firelight by Sophie Jordan
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Fantasy
I loved Firelight because it is a gripping story about a girl who has a huge secret and is not a normal human.  She falls in love with a boy, but he and his family are hunters, hunters of her kind. She must decide if she is in love with him or a boy of her own kind. I loved this book a lot and recommend it for boys and girls who love fantasy mixed with adventure, violence, and romance.
                                                                                                 *Aubrey, 7th grader


Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
Recommended for: Just Girls, People who like Fantasy
Ever though the book is based on something that could never happen, you can relate to the characters. You feel as if you are really there.

                                                                                                 * Angelina/Mia, 7th graders


Looking for Alaska by John Green

Picture
Recommended for Boys and Girls, People who like realistic fiction
​
This is an amazing book by John Green. It is about this boy (Pudge) who goes to boarding school and meets his friends and almost completely changes personality. This book shows how the relationships of Pudge, The colonel, Takumi, and Alaska become stronger. By the end of the book you feel as if you know the characters, and you can't believe the book is over, as if they ripped out 100 pages or so of the end! If you haven't read this already, I would totally read it if you like realistic fiction!
                                                                           by Maya, 7th grader

The Three Musketeers by Alexander Dumas

The Three Musketeers by Alexander Dumas is a very challenging book. At the beginning, it is harder for you to understand what the characters are saying, but by the end you can understand them better. Although the book was published in 1844, it is set in the 17th century. Because it's an old book, some of the words are no longer commonly used or difficult to understand. The story follows D'Artagnan, a young man who wants to be a member of the king of France's musketeers. The novel follows his adventures with his three friends: Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. If you want to rediscover a forgotten classic, then this is the book for you.
                       Book review by Sam, 8th grader               
​                                             
Picture

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
For Just Girls and People Who Like Realistic Fiction
This book is super good! Its about a girl,  nicknamed Belly, and how she is finally getting noticed by the guy she has loved all her life. It's definitely the best book I've ever read (P.S>. they are making a movie so you should read it before it comes out. Taylor Lautner is in it!!!)
                                       
                              By Isabella, 8th grader

Sophia's War by Avi

Recommended for People who like realistic or historical fiction
Sophia's War by Avi is a great book about our war of independence. Sophia Calderwood and her family were evacuated from their house due to a massive fire but later return when things are safe. Soon after they are back home, a soldier, named John Andre, is forced to temporarily stay with them. Her older brother, William, left to help fight in the war when she was twelve. She later finds out that he was being held hostage. She gets a job in a workshop to earn money to save her brother. She later becomes a spy in the house of the British Lieutenant, John Andre. She uncovers very important information. Now read the book to find out how it ends.
                                           by Kayla
 

Ana's Story by Jenna Bush

Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like nonfiction
The main character in the book is a girl named Ana. Throughout the book she has to deal with HIV/AIDS. Her parents and little sister died of HIV/AIDS. Ana is shipped to her abuela's house, but while she and her other sister, Isabel are being touched,  Ana tries to tell abulea, but she doesn't believe her. Ana and Isabel are being moved to Aunt Sonia's,  but her house is small.  Ana gets in a little trouble and has to go to the detention center; she wants to leave. The girls only see the boys during lunch, so she writes her boyfriend. At the end, she lives a wonderful life .
                                                                                                                                           
                                                             book review by Demetria, 8th grader

The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

 Recommended for: Just Boys, People who like horror/suspense/mystery
It is very deadly!!!!!!! The first line is the children came early to the hanging!!!!!!!!
                                                                                                                                            *book review by Max, 7th grader

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

Recommended for: Just girls
I think this book would be great for girls because it takes you into a story about  a girl named Anna who falls for a boy named St. Clair. It gives you an understanding about being in love with someone you like and don't know if he likes you. From my personal experience, I've felt like that but it didn't end like that. He didn't like me, so we are just friends,but I didn't want to be friends. I tried to get him to like me more, but he still didn't, so I got over him.
                                                                                                                            *book review by Demetria, 8th grader
Nevermore by James Patterson
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Science Fiction, People who like Realistic Fiction
"I REALLY loved the last book of the Maximum Ride series!! It was just an awesome book! RIP Maximum Ride, We will always love you! It had a crazy twist to the end that even I didn't see coming. In the end I was just mad that an AMAZING series had to end! The time of Maximum Ride has begun! 

NO MATTER HOW MUCH I TELL YOU THAT THE LAST BOOK IS THE BEST, YOU MUST, I REPEAT, MUST READ THEM IN ORDER!!!
! "
                                                                        * Piper, 7th grader

Flyaway by Lucy Christopher
Recommended for: Just girls, People who like realistic fiction
This book is AMAZING. I won't tell the ending, but what I will say is this. There is plenty of suspense and action, with detail, cool characters, and more. The main character, Isla, loves going to the lake with her dad every year to watch the whooper swans land. But one year, the city has put up power lines, with no red marker balls to make the wires visible. So, the swans fly into them, several die, while the rest fly away from the lake. Isla and her dad eventually find them in a field. But, her dad has a heart attack, and is taken to the hospital. There, she meets Harry. Isla continues to try and help her dad in his frail state, along with her "new feelings for Harry". But will things turn out all right? Read and find out!                                                                                            * Louella, 8th grader

Shug by Jenny Han
I enjoyed reading Shug alot because it is very relatable and is a work of art. Annemarie is the main character and she goes through battling out middle school.                                               * Gabby, 7th grader
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
Recommended for: Just Girls
This book is fabulous; I acually read this book in less than two days. It is about 375 pages long. I thought that it was a more mature book so more for 7th and 8th graders. This girl, Anna, is forced by her dad to go live in France during her senior year of high school, and she falls in love with a guy named St. Clair. During all of this she has problems with her friends at home.
                                                                                                          *book review by Savannah, 7th grade
                          
Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
Recommended for: Just Girls, People Who Like Fantasy
Even though the book is based on something that could never happen, you can relate to the characters. You feel as if you are really there.
                                                                               *book review by Angelina and Mia, 7th grade
A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park
Recommended for: Boys and Girls
I liked this book because it shows how life in Africa is. It shows what people have to go through and what they experience. DO NOT READ THE END FIRST!!!!! It talks about a guy named Salma and another girl. READ THIS BOOK!!!
                                                                                                           *book review by Daisy, 7th grade

Delirium by Lauren Oliver
Recommended for: Just Girls, People who like Fantasy
From the first second you read this book, you will be hooked; you will not put this book down. The characters' personalities are so amazing, you wish you could meet them: thrilling plot changes that will make you jump, friendships that will never end, and a secret between a small town girl and a boy you'll never understand. I 100% recommend this book.

                                                            * Isabella, 7th grader
The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod by Heather Brewer
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Fantasy
I recommend this series because it has a lot of  of suspense and you dont want to  put it down. Might have some parts that are ehh? but you should still read it. 
                                                                                                                                  *Jazmin, 6th grader

The October Country by Ray Bradbury
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like horror/suspense/mystery
This is one of Bradbury's best collections of short stories. They're full of horror, suspense, and mystery. Probably all of the stories in The October Country will give you shivers up your spine and raise the hairs on the back of your neck. It did mine, and I don't get too scared very easily. This is definitely a book worth a read in the dark. Well, on second thought, maybe not. Anyway, y'all should definitely read this wonderful collection of horrifying short stories. Many of my faves by him are in this, including Skeleton, The Small Assassin, and The Next in Line. Hope y'all who read it enjoy it!

                                                                                                      * Louella, 8th grader

The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Science Fiction, People who like Fantasy
Wow! This is one of the best trios I have ever read. If you like science fiction, suspense and a little romance this is the perfect book for you. The main character, Katniss, is very fearless with the help of her friend Gale, who is amazing. Her "boyfriend" Peeta has the best speeches and isn't the least bit nervous about showing his emotions. Katniss's mother, Katniss, and her little sister Prim have all been through a lot, but what happens when someone so close to them gets picked in the reaping? 3 books: Hunger Games, Catching Fire, and lastly Mockingjay, the phenomenal final book.

                                                                       *book review by Riley, 6th grade
Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like historical fictionI love the book so much. It is amazing how much detail and hard work was put into this book. I love how the author added in the little sister. Having her in the book showed how hard life was for the younger kids and the older people in the story. if you like historical fiction then you will love this book. Chains is a book that I would read over and over again.  I couldn't put it down.

                                                                                                             * book review by Hannah, 8th grade
Darth Paper Strikes Back by Tom Angleberger
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, 
 I highly recommend this book because it is very well written, funny, and has a touch of origami middle school drama. Also, it has a surprise twist ending in the story, including two of the three main characters. This book was amazingly glueing to my eyes and brain to every one of the pages. It is sure to do the same for you.
               
                                                                                *book review by Jorge, 6th grade
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Science Fiction
Katniss is a wonderful character. I really enjoyed the action and suspense. 

                                                             *book review by Leslie, 7th grade
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
Recommended for: People who like Fantasy
"Oh boy it's a harry potter book. This story is a classic but not without its faults. 
Crowed: WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU SAYING!
Yes I am going to talk about the bad things but that aside let's get on to the review. 
*Note this is a long review so do not read in one second*
The book is of course fantasy utilizing wizardry and magical beings. Our main character, Harry Potter, is a weak boy trapped in, well, the underworld where his guardians are mean and his cousin a fat spoiled kid. They explain why he is in this situation, but to avoid a really good moment I will skip that. Any ways Harry seems to be getting mail from someone, and his Uncle Vernon rips apart and burns it, so as you can see, he is not fond of the sender. Later thousands of letters fly into the house, and Harry finally gets one. They drag him to a island and trap him there for his birthday, only to be found by my favorite character, Hagrid. So now we get to see the more magical part of the story! Apparently harry is famous, and it is explained, so I wont mention it, but it does involve a guy named Voldemort, the obvious villain.
                                                                                               *book review by Jack (Megamon), 7th grade
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Recommended for: Boys and Girls
I liked this book because it tells a story about a girl who moves to a new school and has to fit in. She discovers this guy, who she really likes and saves her life, and later figures out that he's a vampire.  If you have read the first book and not the sequels, then I suggest you do. The book was actually recommended to me by a little kid.
                                                                                 *book review by Jacob, 7th grade
The Alchemyst by Michael Scott
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Science Fiction
This book was amazing! It was action packed and exciting. I just wanted to keep reading.  It was almost like The Lightning Thief series.  I think almost anyone would enjoy this book.
                                                                                 *book review by Caitlin, 7th grade
Everlost by Neal Shusterman
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like horror/suspense/mystery
I feel that the book Everlost scoops you into the story from the beginning and takes you through a book portal into the world of Everlost.  Everlost is a place between life and death.  Nobody's ever found a way out, but Allie, Nick, and Lief are determined to find a way.  Find out what happens in the book Everlost, the first book in the Skinjacker trilogy.
 
                                                                             *book review by Amity, 6th grade
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
Recommended for: Everyone!
This book is fantabulous. You're introduced to the protagonists and antagonists right away, but the author doesn't give everything away too soon, so you're left wanting to keep reading to learn more. Every one of the series is packed with multiple stories within the story.  The title is a cliff-hanger; you don't find out what it means until the end.  Throughout the book you discover things as the characters do, which makes you relate to the story and builds suspense.  Almost every detail in the book has significance to the author and to the story. Some of us cried when the series ended!
                                             
                                                                               *book review by Ms. Shellhorn's 4th period class
Yellow Star by Jennifer Rozines Roy
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like realistic or historical fiction
Yellow Star is narrated by a young girl living through the Holocaust.  Full of beautifully detailed symbolism, it is an emotional roller coaster of a book.  The main character gradually loses almost everything that matters to her.  It's a really long book, but it's written in a poetic form that draws you in.
    
                                                                                  *book review by Ms. Shellhorn's 8th period class
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Fantasy
The Lightning Thief is a twisting fantasy story. I would recommend it to everybody.  This book gets you glued to the page, and you do not want to stop. If you read this book, once you get done with it, if you really love it, the series goes on and on! I highly recommend it.
                                                                       *book review by Kirk, 7th grade

Everfound by Neal Shusterman (3rd in Skinjackers Trilogy)

Recommended for: Just Boys, Just Girls, Boys and Girls, People who like science fiction, People who like fantasy, People who like horror/suspense/mystery
This book is one of my personal favorite books and is a touching addition to the trilogy that provides the reader with a sense of relief and pride for the characters in this thrilling, yet meaningful novel.   
                                                                                                *book review by William, 7th grade

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare


Recommended for: boys and girls, people who like fantasy
     I adore this book. It is the first in a series of six. However, only four of the books are out. This book is suspenseful, and humorous. This is a book of vampires, werewolves, fairies, and the demon killers, as known as "shadowhunters". This is a story of romance and frustration and loss. I really only see teenagers reading it, but I love it. I have showed friends of mine this series and they love it as much as I do. It has battles and gore. I love this book. Read it. You wont be sorry.  

                                                                                                                                                          *book review by Abby, 9th grade

Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Recommended for: boys and girls
     Life of Pi is a story about Pi Patel, a young Indian boy moving to America. After the ship that is carrying not only his family and himself, but a large group of wild zoo animals as well (his father works in a zoo) sinks, Pi is left to deal with carnivorous animals and a 30 foot life boat to survive on. This book is full of adventure and is a true story of bravery and courage. 
                                                                                                                                                          *book review by Tessa, 9th grade

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Recommended for: boys and girls, people who like realistic fiction
This book takes you into the mind of a mentally disturbed teenager trying to get through her first year of high school. I believe this book will help people who have been through the same traumatic experiences she had to speak up about. It lets them know they are not alone.
                                                                                                             *book review by Summer, 9th grade

The Secret Story of Sonia Rodriguez by Alan Sitomer

Recommended for: boys and girls, people who like realistic fiction
I liked this book because it talks about stuff that's hard to talk about but hapens all the time; in other words, it's very realistic.Sonia Rodriquez is an Hispanic girl trying to make her way in our American world, determined to get there no matter what anybody says or thinks, even at the cost of  her own family. I recommend this book to all eighth graders because of mature subjects.
                                                                                                            *book review by Lydia, 9th grade
 Beastly by Alex Flinn
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Fantasy

This is the perfect love story. Now most guys don't like love stories, but this is in Kyle Kingsbury's perspective;  he is hilarious. Now this sounds like your regular love story until Kendra Hilferty comes into his life and changes it forever.This is set in New York City and the one who cast the spell on him was just another girl in his English class. Everyone wants to be Kyle because he has money, perfect looks, the perfect girl, and the perfect life until he becomes perfectly....beastly!
                                                                                                             *book review by Riley, 6th grade
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
Recommended for: Just Girls
I am not a big reader, but this book is really relatable. Jenny Han really gets how the characters are feeling, and you feel like you are really there. After you get done reading this book, you feel like you know them. I also like it because when something BIG happens, the author switches perspectives from the main character to different characters.
                                                                                 *book review by Paris, 7th grade
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Fantasy
In the book  When you Reach Me  Miranda (the main character) is having to deal with friends, family and all of New York. This story contains suspense, suprising details and an unbeilevable ending. This book will keep you turning pages until the end. I recommend this book one hundred percent to anyone and everyone.
                                                                                *book review by Isabella, 6th grade
The Maze Runner trilogy by James Dashner
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Science Fiction
Just read these books. Just take my word for it and read the Maze Runner Trilogy. If you are are human being capable of reading short books, you must read and re-read these books over and over again.

                                                               *book review by Noah, 8th grade
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Recommended for: Boys and Girls
Because it is fun and excited and you never get bored. it is so much FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. I read this book over and over. It Rocks!

                                                               *book review by Tessa, 6th grade
The Giver by Lois Lowry
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Science Fiction
The book does a great introduction. The entire thing is very good on how much suspense, action and how the character changes through the story.
                                                                                                        *book review by Samm, 7th grade
City of Bones series by Cassandra Clare
Recommended for: Just Girls
It's full of fantasy, dark secrets, love, and demon slaying. Shadowhunters are men and women that have been created by a angel to kill the demons that roam the streets all over the world. Clary and her mother live in New York, but her mother is keeping something from her, something that she had never seen coming. She goes to a club and sees a murder, but she was the only one that saw it. Her best friend, Simon, is with her, and he didnt see it eaither. She meets a boy named Jace, and something clicks between them. Clary is swept up into the world of demons, finding things out about her self that her mother has kept from her. She will find out a secret about her father, who is supposed to be dead.
                                                                                     *book review by Hannah, 8th grade
Found by Margaret Haddix Peterson
Recommended for: People who like Science Fiction
Let me tell you this book, Found, is the best book I ever read.  It's a great science fiction book you really should read. After you get past reading the acknowledgments, you want to read all day and after you read the first chapter, you don't want to stop the book because it gets really good and kind of creepy. I'm not going to tell you the end. You just have to read the book, so keep reading and have a good book year!
                                                                                 *book review by Brianna, 6th grade
Think Twice by Lisa Scottoline
Recommended for: Just Girls, People who like realistic fiction, People who like horror/suspense/mystery
Think Twice is a mystery book. It always keeps you on your toes.
        
                                                                              *book review by Desiree, 7th grade
The Fallen by Paul Langan
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like realistic fiction
We liked The Fallen because we could relate to the main character, Martin.  The events that happened to him seemed like they could really happen.  Some of us know people who have lost loved ones just as Martin lost his brother. (Don't worry. We haven't given too much away. You learn about his brother right away). This book is about Martin struggling at home and on the streets, and how he deals with his brother's death with anger.

                                                                                 *book review by Ms. Shellhorn's 6th period class

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Recommended for: 
Boys and Girls, People who like Science Fiction, People who like realistic fiction, People who like Fantasy
The Hunger Games is a book for all people...ALL people.  If you're a human, you're going to love The Hunger Games. What we really like about the book is that it was really suspenseful and had a lot of action. It hooks you to the point that you almost want to skip ahead, but you can't. You're glued to the page. This class GUARANTEES that you'll enjoy this book! It won't be a waste of your time.
                                                                                                     *book review by Ms. Shellhorn's 7th period
 
Divergent by Veronica Roth
Recommended for: Boys and Girls, People who like Science Fiction, People who like Fantasy
It is worded beautifully and is set in a Dystopian future, where you must choose the rest of your life, which really captured me and did not make me skip ahead. I recommend it for people who have read the Hunger Games trilogy and like things like that.
                                                                                              *book review by Yemeya, 6th grade

The Gardener by S. A. Bodeen

Recommended for: People who like fantasy, especially dystopian science fiction

If you want to read an exciting, suspenseful science-fiction, The Gardener is the book for you. If has many well-plotted twists and turns that keep the reader wondering what will happen next. 
When Mason, a high school student, brings home an application for TroDyn college, his mother refuses to let him go there. He thinks this is nothing out of the ordinary, until he finds out that the college's scientists are conducting a life-changing experiment. To solve the problem of running out of food on the Earth, they are trying to develop people that don't have to eat. Laila, one of the girls they are experimenting on, wakes up from her lifelong sleep and follows Mason out of the building where he found her. She says she is afraid of returning, but she can't remember anything about her life. Mason is puzzled but agrees to take her with him until he finds a solution. On the way he runs into one of the scientists, Dr. Emerson. She tells him more about the experiment, including a shocking fact: if Laila isn't returned to the way she was, she will die. Mason decides to take the risk of going to TroDyn and asking the Gardener, the man behind it all, for help.
Want to find out how it ends? Read The Gardener!                          
                                                                                                                     *book review by Jenna, 8th grade                                                                                                                                          

Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins

Recommended for: people who like science fiction, people who like fantasy, people who like horror/suspense/mystery
     Gregor, an 11 year old living in New York, finds himself and his baby sister down in the laundry room of his apartment building. While tossing a ball as the dryer tumbles, the ball rolls up against the grate in the wall, and what else would his little sister do but fall through it into the deep, dark pits of Underland. He soon finds himself wrapped up in conflict after conflict with the people and creatures that live underneath. While all he wants to do is get back to his home, the wall of conflict and suspense builds. I personally adore this book. Read this pick if you're into creatures that are larger than normal, way larger, violet eyed people, and a war with a 6 foot tall pest. And remember, love is one thing, obsession is another.                                                                                                                                                                                  *book review by Abby, 9th grade

The Robot by Paul E. Watson

Recommended for: Just Boys, People who like Science Fiction
The title makes you wonder: what does the robot do? The first pages will look at a Friday in spring and doing a weird plan that leads to other things happening. The book has multiple jokes inside about a lot of things and moments where you could see it's the typical guy gets that random girl that he has alot in common with.
                                                                                                            *book review by Q'ron, 9th grade
  • Home
  • Reading
    • Book Lists
    • Trailers
    • eBooks
    • Recommend a Book
    • Book Clubs
  • Research
    • Evaluating Sources
    • Citing Sources
    • Class Research Wikis
  • Student Book Reviews
  • Student Book Review Form
  • Past Library Events