Mini Reviews

I have not been doing reviews on all the books I have read, so here are couple of mini reviews. I have read almost all of the Mortal Instruments series, which are one of my new favorites, a whole bunch of Karen Kingsbury's books, I love her writing, the the first book in The Immortals series, and also the Wicked Lovely series.

Redemption by Karen Kingsbury and Gary Smalley

4 stars

Most of Karen Kingsbury's books are really good christian books, I have loved everything I have read of hers and she is a very

great author.

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

4 stars

This book is awesomely written and a fun book to read. I love this book and I also love City of Ashes, the second book to this series. I love Cassandra's work and think that a lot of people would love this series!

Wicked Lovely by Melissa Mar

4 stars

I love this series, Melissa keeps you reading until the last page. I finished the whole entire series in about a week. If you are going to read this series, keep in mind that the world that Melissa puts her characters in is kind of dark, but not to dark that it scared me. I do recommend this book to people!

Natalie

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Title: The Hunger Games

Author: Suzanne Collins

Stars: 4

My mom wanted me to read this one because she said it is one of her favorite books of all time, so I picked it up and I finished it in about three or four days. This is book is really good and filled with action. It's really good and I reccomend this book to anyone that would like to read it!

There is some kissing in this book but nothing to bad.

Natalie

Miles to Go by Miley Cyrus

Title: Miles to Go

Author: Miley Cyrus

Stars: 3

Description: Three years ago, Miley Cyrus was a virtual unknown. Her life in rural Tennessee was filled with family, friends, school, cheerleading, and the daily tasks of living on a farm. And then came a little show called Hannah Montana. Almost overnight, Miley would rocket to superstardom, becoming a television and singing phenomenon. Quiet days were replaced with sold-out concerts, television appearances, and magazine shoots. But through it all, Miley has remained close to her family and friends and has stayed connected to the Southern roots that made her so strong.

In this book Miley Cyrus does seem like a true Christian, but what I have been seeing with her today, she doesn't act like one at all. This book is a very good story about the life of a pop-star and it goes into real detail about Miley Cyrus's life.

In this book Miley Cyrus talks about relationships and the fact that she has tachycardia, a hole in her heart, and much more! I do recommend this book to people who are fans of Miley Cyrus.

Natalie

Shark Girl by Kelly Bingham

Title: Shark Girl

Author: Kelly Bingham

Stars: 3

Description: Sometimes I can still feel my right hand, like a best friend, weighted, warm. On a sunny day in June, at the beach with her mom and brother, fifteen-year-old Jane Arrowood went for a swim. And then everything changed -absolutely everything- changed.

This book is really good, this book was written in 2001 when the news focused on shark attacks and the author decided to write a book about someone that got attacked by a shark and how different her life would be. If you read this book, you will understand exactly what the difference is.

There is some language in this book but nothing else.

Natalie

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Title: Little Women

Author: Louisa May Alcott

Stars: 4

Description: Originally published in 1868 to instant success, Louisa May Alcott's story of four sister coming of age against the backdrop of the Civil War will be met today with the same delight that has thrilled generations of readers. Follow the adventures of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, four of the most endearing and enduring characters in American literature as they grow up in Small New England town and learn about life, friendship, and the power of love along the way.

This book is really good, my grandma and my mom have both read this book and loved it. I really think that a lot of girls of all ages would love this book. All the characters of this book will stick with you to the end of the pages! This book is very long, but you will enjoy it all the way the end.

Natalie

ICarly Season 2 Volume 1

Title: ICarly Season 2 Volume 1

Nickelodeon

Rated: Not Rated

Description: Get ready for more ICarly hilarity with brand-new web segments, special guest star appearances, and exciting episodes from Season 2, including ICarly's first web award nomination and the kiss that shocked the world!

This TV show is awesome! This volume has 11 great episodes of Carly, Sam, and Freddie that get funnier every time! This show is a great laugh for any age. All the characters are great and funny and I hope that all of you try this show out.

Natalie

Dork Diaries:Tales From A Not-So-Fabulous Life by Rachel Renee Russell

Title: Dork Diaries: Tales From a Not-So-Fabulous Life

Author: Rachel Renne Russell

Stars: 4

Description: New school. New mean girl. New crush. New Diary, so Nikki can spill all of her secrets!

This book is so good! I could not put it down. I really do reccomend it to all of you because I think this book is great for all ages. It's funny and it talks about all the problems teenage girls go through, mostly bully's though. I love this book and I think everybody should read it!

Natalie

The Suite Life on Deck Anchors Away

Title: The Suite Life on Deck Anchors Away

Disney

Rated: G

Stars: 4

I love The Suite Life of Zack and Cody and this is just as funny and crazy. A lot of people may think it is kind of stupid, and I can see that. But I also this that this show is awesome. I do recommend this to everyone!

Natalie

Sonny With a Chance

Title: Sonny With a Chance

Disney

Rated: G

Description: Sonny Monroe takes Hollywood by storm in Sonny With a Chance, the fresh new comedy about a show within a show. In volume one: Sonny's Big Break, get to know Sonny from the very beginning with four hilarious episode that will have the whole family laughing out loud. Plus, enjoy a bonus episode of the show, Mackenzie Falls Season Finale Cliffhanger Short, and Demi's original audition.

This show is hilarious and awesome. I brother Noah has laughing out loud also. Demi Lavato is a great actor and this show fits her perfectly. I totally adise Sonny With a Chance to you all! I know you will all like it!

Natalie

Beyond the Grave by Jude Watson

Title: Beyond the Grave

Author: Jude Watson

Stars: 3

Description: Betrayed by their cousins, abandoned by their uncle,and with only the slimmest hint to guide them, four-teen-year-old Amy Cahill and her younger brother, Dan, rush off to Egypt on the hunt for the 39 Clues that lead to a source of an unimaginable power. But when the arrive, Amy and Dan get something completely unexpected-a message from their dead grandmother, Grace. Did Grace set out to help the two orphans..or are Amy and Dan heading for the most devastating betrayal of them all?

This is the 4th book in the 39 Clues series and is very good. I think that it is a lot more realistic because it talks about how brother's and sisters and can have fights and that we are human. This series is a great action series for kids and I advise to everyone! I hope you give it a try.

Natalie

Coming Attractions by Robin Jones Gunn

Title: Coming Attractions

Author: Robin Jones Gunn

Stars: 4

Description: As graduation approaches, Katie Weldon is pretty sure she's ready for the word "engaged" to describe her relationship with Rick. But Eli seems to always be right there when she needs support. Rick is everything Katie's ever dreamed of, offering her stability and love. Eli, on the other hand, brings adventure , spontaneity, and a wild love of God. Katie wonders if she's ready to be serious with any guy. Maybe God wants her to seriously commit to him first, whether her future is all planned out or as spontaneous as her impromptu life has been so far. One this she knows for sure:With God alongside her, the coming attractions are bound to be a surprise.

This book is great but it does have a little bit of a surprise. But either way I like who she ends up with and I can't wait to see more books in the Katie Weldon series! I hope you take my advise and start reading this great young adult Christian series.

Natalie

Soundtrack to Wizards of Waverly Place

Title: Wizards of Waverly Place

Disney

Kids

Selena Gomez is a good, pure, singer that has a great voice. She sings 4 songs on the soundtrack called, Disappear, Magic, Magical, and Everything is Not What It Seems the theme song of the Disney's TV show! I love this CD and I recommend this to everybody!

The songs on this CD are...

1. Disappear sung by Selena Gomez This song is really good, one of my faves!

2. Magic* sung by Selena Gomez This is one of my faves also!

3. Magic* sung by Selena Gomez Everybody has heard the song Magic! Cool song!

4. Strange Magic sung by Steve Rushton

5. Magic** sung by Honor Society

6. Everything Little She Does is Magic sung by Mitchel Musso One of the stars of the Hannah Montana TV show is a great singer!

7. Magic Carpet Ride sung by KSM

8. Magic*** sung by Meaghan Martin

9. You Can do Magic sung by Drew Seeley

10. Some Call it Magic sung by Raven Symone The star of That's So Raven sings this song, it is awesome!

11. Do You Believe In Magic sung by Aly and AJ I LOVE ALY AND AJ! This song rocks!

12. Everything is Not What it Seems sung by Selena Gomez The theme song of Wizards of Waverly Place! Awesome!

Natalie

Hannah Montana The Movie Giveaway

If you are interested in the Hannah Montana Movie go to this link and enter my mom's giveaway!


http://carrie.homeschooljournal.net/2009/08/10/featured-dvd-hannah-montana-the-movie-plus-a-giveaway/

Natalie

Inkdeath by Cornelia Funke

Title: Inkdeath

Author: Cornelia Funke

Stars: 4

Description: Ever since the extraordinary events of Inkspell, when the enchanted book Inkheart drew Meggie and her father, Mom, into is't chapters, life in the Inkworld has been more tragic then magical. Facing the threat of eternal winter, Mo inks a dangerous deal with Death itself. There are yet remains of faint hope of changing the cursed story if only he can fill it's pages fast enough.

This book is ok, I don't like it as much as the other two though. The relationship between Farid and Meggie sucks, and then the whole relationship between Meggie and her mom is not very good either. But the story line is very good and I like how this magical story ends!

There is still a little bit of language, but not as bad as Inkheart.

Natalie

Inkspell

Title: Inkspell

Author: Cornelia Funke

Stars: 4

Description: Fourteen-year-old Meggie is back at home after the intrigue and adventure she encountered in Inkheart (Chicken House, 2003), the first volume in this projected trilogy. In this second episode, the calm of her life is shattered when Farid, protégé of the fire-eater, Dustfinger, begs her to use her magical ability and read him into Dustfingers story. Meggie longs to see the enchanted world she has only encountered through the pages of a book and travels with Farid into the story. Events quickly spin out of control. Evil characters from Inkheart re-emerge to extract revenge. Battle lines are drawn between two kingdoms. Several individuals are intent on re-writing the story to ensure their own happy ending. A multitude of intriguing characters are kept straight by the tour-de-force performance of actor Brendan Frazier who distinguishes each one with a different accent–from Dustfingers Scottish burr to Fenoglios Brooklyn inflection to Orpheuss southern drawl. His performance is so convincing that listeners must remind themselves that this is not a full-cast production. Action, romance, and danger are delivered with just the right inflection and pace in this stunning performance. Expect the popularity of the series to climb as Inkheart has been optioned for movie rights.–

These books are extremely well written and fun to read. Not only that, but it has a lot of action in this book. I love the plot line, and everything else. The characters are really cool and so is the story itself. There is a lot more language in this book then the first one, just to keep readers informed.

Natalie

The Hannah Montana Movie

Title: The Hannah Montana Movie

Walt Disney

Rated: G

Stars: 4

My mom took me to see this movie at the drive-in and then we got it on DVD. I really like this movie, the singing and acting is great and it is just a great girly-girl movie to watch with girlfriends! The stars that sing in this movie are, Miley Cyrus, Billy Ray Cyrus, Taylor Swift, Rascal Flats, and Steve Rushton!

Natalie

Interview with Lisa Samson

Lisa Samson, the author of the Hollywood Nobody series and many more agreed to do an interview with me. Thanks a bunch, Lisa!

1. What are some of the things you like to do, except writing?

I love to read, do needle work, cook, and my favorite thing is to hang out with people! The more the merrier here at our house. I like to go to the movies too, but that's gotten pretty expensive, so I don't get to do that as much as I'd like.

2. How long have you been a Christian?

I've been Christian knowingly since I was three! But it's still been such a journey trying to figure out what it really means to be a true follower of Jesus, not someone who just believes it's all true.

3. I saw on the back of your teen books, another author encouraged you to write YA books, were you kind of nervous about them not being as good as your adult books?

I'm always nervous whatever I'm writing won't be any good, so it felt just the same!


4. In the Hollywood Nobody books, Seth and Scotty text a lot, did you have to learn what some of the letters and symbols mean? Like w means with, lol means laugh out loud, or did you know them off the top of your head?


I love text messaging, so I got into the language quickly. Now, I'm normally a full-word texter, but I receive a lot of them with symbols and abbreviations. I dropped my phone in the driveway last winter, it snowed overnight, so I had to get a new phone. I got one of those kind with the full keyboard and I love it.

5. Are you working on any books right now?

I'm working on my next adult novel and am dreaming up the possibilities for my next YA series! I stand in front of the Young Adult section in Barnes and Noble and am mystified sometimes. "What do people want to read that's different?" I know vampires, supernatural stuff is so popular, but do I want to add another vampire series to the mix? Or a series about mean girls? Hey, how about a series about mean vampire girls? So any help there would be appreciated!

6. Are you planning on writing any more YA books in the feature?

Ha! I just answered that! Great minds think alike! Hopefully I'll start working on one soon. (If I can just figure out what to write! Aah!!)

7. Where do you usually write your work? Do you write in bed, on a desk, or anything?

Anywhere. Bed. Couch. Front porch. And even my car! Sometimes, when I can't concentrate, I drive to a parking lot and work.

8. When did you know you wanted to write?

I've always loved to read, but I never really considered writing until I was 28! It's never too late to begin! I just decided to write a book, that's all. And I could basically do it. I really believe it's just a gift God gave me, and I'm very grateful.

9. In school, what are some of the things you were good at?

Well, let me first start off and say that I am not, nor have I ever been, good at Math. When the kids reach about 5th grade, their dad has to step in for homework help. I always loved history and biology. History, because it's one great big story, and biology because, well, the human body, nature in general, has always fascinated me. I mean . . . eyeballs . . . amazing, aren't they?


Thanks so much Lisa! Thanks for taking to time to do this for me!

Natalie

The Darkest Hour by Erin Hunter

Title: The Darkest Hour

Author: Erin Hunter

Stars: 4

Description: ThunderClan's darkest hour is upon them, as Tigerstar's quest for power plunges all the Clans into the most terrible danger any cat has ever faced. In order to save his Clan and his friends, Fireheart must uncover the meaning of an ominous proclamation from StarClan: "Four will become two. Lion and tiger will meet in battle. Blood will rule the forest" The time has come for prophecies to unfold, and for heroes to rise.

This last book is the Warriors series is a great book. This series is one that any kid would like, I really liked them. I am kind of sad to see the characters go, but I am glad that there are more series about these cats. The author did a great job with really getting into the mind of a cat.

Natalie

Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

Title: Inkheart

Author: Cornelia Funke

Stars: 4

Description: Meggie’s father, Mo, has an wonderful and sometimes terrible ability. When he reads aloud from books, he brings the characters to life--literally. Mo discovered his power when Maggie was just a baby. He read so lyrically from the the book Inkheart, that several of the book’s wicked characters ended up blinking and cursing on his cottage floor. Then Mo discovered something even worse--when he read Capricorn and his henchmen out of Inkheart, he accidentally read Meggie’s mother in.
Meggie, now a young lady, knows nothing of her father's bizarre and powerful talent, only that Mo still refuses to read to her. Capricorn, a being so evil he would "feed a bird to a cat on purpose, just to watch it being torn apart," has searched for Meggie's father for years, wanting to twist Mo's powerful talent to his own dark means. Finally, Capricorn realizes that the best way to lure Mo to his remote mountain hideaway is to use his beloved, oblivious daughter Meggie as bait!

This book is really good! The author just has a great talent for writing. I loved the book the Thief Lord and this book I think is one of her bests also. I started reading this book a couple of years ago, and then I got bored and my mom started reading it to my brothers and I. And then I watched the movie and I wanted to read the book over again to refresh my memory so I could read Inkspell, this second book in this series.

I think that the villains and the heroes in the book are really cool and do recommend this book to everybody!

There is a little bit of laungage in this book. The "D" word a couple of times and Go* and stuff like that.

Natalie

A Dangerous Path by Erin Hunter

Title: A Dangerous Path

Author: Erin Hunter

Stars: 4

Description: ShadowClan has a dark new leader, but will he be satisfied with his power now-or does his desire for revenge burn even more strongly? Fireheart fears that there is a connection between the rise of Tigerstar and the terrible dreams that haunt his nights, murmuring of danger and death. Meanwhile, a mysterious and vicious threat unlike any other has invaded the forest, placing every cat's life in peril. Fireheart's beloved leader has turned her back on their warrior ancestors, and Fireheart can't help but wonder if she's right. Has Starclan abandoned them forever?

This book is fantastic! I think there is a lot more war in this book then any of the other Warrior books I have read. I like it that there is crying parts in the book and violent parts in the book, and things like that. I also like that two of the characters fall in love! I really recommend this series for everyone!

Natalie

Dark Blue by Melody Carlson

Title: Dark Blue

Author: Melody Carlson

Stars: 3

Description: Kara Hendricks and Jordan Ferguson have been best friends since kindergarten. By now-sophomore year- they're more like sisters, really. Jordan has always been the leader in the friendship, but still she's the perfect friend. That is, until she starts to hang out with a new, "cool" crowd and decide Kara is a popularity liability.

I think is book is a great influence for people who have gone through all sorts of hard times. This one is about loosing your best friend. Melody Carlson really explains what teenage and pre-teens are going through now a days.

One of the characters mom hung herself, another character is into smoking, drugs, and jewelry. But above all this, this is a great Christian series.

Natalie

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K Rowling

Title: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Author: J.K. Rowling

Stars: 3

Description: Orphaned as a baby, Harry Potter has spent 11 awful years living with his mean aunt, uncle, and cousin Dudley. But everything changes for Harry when an owl delivers a mysterious letter inviting him to attend a school for wizards. At this special school, Harry finds friends, aerial sports, and magic in everything from classes to meals, as well as a great destiny that's been waiting for him...if Harry can survive the encounter.







People are probably going to hate me for reading Harry Potter, but I am proud to say that their is nothing wrong with these books. The Harry Potter series is a great adventure series, with lots of action and just fun! And I do recommend this book to everybody!

There is a couple of bad words, like dam*



Natalie

The Dangerous Days of Daniel X by James Patterson

Title: The Dangerous Days of Daniel X

Author: James Patterson

Stars: 4

Description: He was born with a great power. The greatest superpower of all isn't to be part spider, part man, or to cast magic spells-the greatest power is the power to create. Daniel X has that power. And a deadly secret. Daniel's secret abilities-like being able to manipulate objects and animals with his mind or to re-create himself in any shape he choose-have helped him survive. But Daniel doesn't have a normal life. He is the protector of Earth, the Alien Hunter, with a mission beyond any one's imagining. Now the fate of the world rest of Daniel X From the day that his parents with brutally murder before his very eyes, Daniel used his unique gifts to Hunt down their assassin. Finlay, with the help of The List, bequeathed to him in his parents' dying breath, his is closing in on the killer. Now on his one, he vows to carry out his father's mission-and to take vengeance to the process.

My brother read this book and I thought I would read it, this book is very good but there were somethings that surprised me. There was a bit of language in this book like, Go*, jacka**, dam*, and things like that. Then there was some romantic stuff in the book, one part in the book Daniel sleeps in his crushes closet and he thinks that his crush want him to sleep with him. Then there is a one kiss on the cheek.

But I would recommend this book because it has a lot of action and, it says right on the book flap, that Spider man meets Men in Black. I do think that this is a mix of book and I do reccomend this book to everyone who likes a good action book!

Natalie

P.S. There is a sequel to this book coming soon.

Kira-Kira by Cynthia Kadohata

Title: Kira-Kira

Author: Cynthia Kadohata

Stars: 5

Description: Glittering. That's how Katie Takeshima's sister, Lynn, makes everything seem. The sky is kira-kira because its color is deep but see-through at the same time. The sea is kira-kira for the same reason. And so are people's eyes. When Katie and her family move from a Japanese community in Iowa to the Deep South of Georgia, it's Lynn who explains to her why people stop on the street to stare. And it's Lynn who, with her special way of viewing the world, teaches Katie to look beyond tomorrow. But when Lynn becomes desperately ill, and the whole family begins to fall apart, it is up to Katie to find a way to remind them all that there is always something glittering-kira-kira- in the future.

I cam not even begin to tell you how unforgettable this story is. When you read this book you will laugh, cry, and smile. The relationship between Lynn and Katie is just touching, and the last chapters and words in this book with just touch your heart and want your to read this book all over again.

Even though the ending is kind of sad, this book is important to read.

There is some language, one Son of a b****, Go*******, and things like that. Katie has a crush on a boy and has little stories about how she dreams she could be locked in a bathroom with him but there is nothing really sexual about it, just the dreams of a ten-year-old girl. And there is also discussions of french kissing and how Lynn kissed a boy. But if you get past all fo that, this book is truly amazing.

Natalie

Rising Storm by Erin Hunter

Title: Rising Storm

Author: Erin Hunter

Stars: 3

Description: Fireheart's traitorous enemy Tigerclaw has been vanquished and exiled from ThunderClan-but Fireheart can't shake the feeling that he's lurking in the forest, waiting for his chance to strike. That's not the only problem facing young warrior in those blazing summer months, as he struggles to handle sinister omens, an apprentice with a shocking secret, and a devastated Clan leader who is a shell of her former self. Meanwhile the forest gets hotter and hotter...and everyone braces for the coming storm...

These books I think are very good because they always have a surprise ending! It is so cool to see the ending in this book. Also, through out the book they have nice surprises.

Tigerclaw is now banded from the ThunderClan for betraying the Clan. The Fireheart still knows that Tigerclaw is out their and is ready for a battle.

Natalie

Goodbye Hollywod Nobody by Lisa Samson

Title: Goodbye Hollywood Nobody

Author: Lisa Samson

Stars: 4

Description: Charley's off to Scotland with her new beau, and Scotty and her dad travel to Maine in search of Scotty's mom. That's not all they're looking for though. There are still a lot of unanswered questions about faith. Scotty's faced with her bitterness tower Karissa and what it means to live a "Jeasusy extraordinary" life. Shouldn't forgiveness play a role in that? And when Scotty and her dad land on her mother's last known trail, with their questions finally be answered?

I think that Lisa Samson ended this series perfectly! She did such a great job for all of the characters and the plot of the story! I really advise everyone to read this GREAT YA series by Lisa Samson. I think that a lot of girls will love this series!

There is a little mentions of Seth's sexual path, but nothing too bad.

Natalie

The Thief Lord Movie

Title: The Thief Lord

Rated: PG for langauge and thematic elements

Description: Mystical, magical and completely enchanting, this epic tale in the tradition of the Harry Potter series brings the beloved characters of prize-winning novelist Cornelia Funke to dazzling life. After their mother dies, two boys flee their mean aunt and head for Venice, Italy, where they meet Scipio, the mysterious, "Thief lord." Along with a small band of abandoned kids who cal an old movie theater home, the boys join Scipio's world of robbing the rich to support themselves. Soon, then win the heart of a detective hired to track them, and begin an adventure that leads them to an old merry-go-round believed to have special powers. Featuring Vanessa Redgrave and a captivating supporting cast, The Thief Lord will steal your heart of the beginning to end.

I don't think that they changed a lot from the book. The acting was really good, and the little boy who played Bo is just the most adorable 6-year-old I have ever seen!I think they could have done a little better on the make-belief stuff. Like when Scipio turns into adult, that's not exactly what I would have thought of him to look like. Some people may think differently.

But still I think if people like the book, they should watch the movie, but make sure you read the book first! :)

Their is a little bit of language.

Natalie

The Whispering Statue by Carolyn Keene

Title: The Whispering Statue

Author: Carolyn Keene

Stars: 3

Description: Nancy Drew is asked to solve a puzzling mystery and immediately is confronted with another, even more complicated. The first one concerns a valuable collection of rare nooks that Mrs. Horace Merriam commissioned a supposedly reputable art dealer to sell, but she now suspects that the man is a swindler. The second mystery revolves around the baffling theft of a beautiful marble statue.

This book is very cool because Nancy and her friends go undercover on a cruise and they are working on two mysteries. One involves some rare books, and the other involves a whispering statue that looks like Nancy.

My favorite part in this book was when Nancy and her friend pose as pictures when an intruder comes into the room!

Natalie

Coming Soon

Well, guess what!? I am interviewing Lisa Samson and the interview will be up in my blog soon! If you are a fan of her, comment and tell me some questions you want me to ask her!

Natalie

Trading Places by Claudia Mills

Title: Trading Places

Author: Claudia Mills

Stars: 2

Description: Amy and Todd are twins, and they get on--but they are as opposite as can be in almost every way. Amy is the bookworm and poet, totally disorganized. Todd is the competent technocrat, super organized. Everyone is sure what the twins' roles will be for the fifth-grade Mini-Society class project. But the kids change, especially when trouble comes, and so do their parents and some of the friends they thought they knew. At home everything is "horribly different" since Dad lost his job. Dad and Mom quarrel all the time, and Todd is heartbroken that the family's beloved old dog is sick.

First of all, I thought this book was about something totally different, so I didn't' get what I expected. Second of all, this book is boring. But not so boring that I quit it...I finished it but I just don't exactly get the story. I wish the author would have gone into more detail with their father and the problems of their family. But I don't recommend this book to anybody.

Natalie

The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke

Title: The Thief Lord

Author: Cornelia Funke

Stars: 4

Description: Welcome to the magical underworld of Venice, Italy. Here, hidden canals and crumbling rooftops shelter runaways and children with incredible secrets. After escaping from their cruel aunt and uncle, orphans Prosper and Bo meet a mysterious boy who calls himself the "Thief Lord." Clever and charming, the Thief Lord leads a band of street children who enjoy making mischief. But the Thief Lord also has a dark secret. And suddenly Prosper and Bo find themselves on a fantastical journey to a forgotten place. What they discover there will change the course of their destiny...forever.

I think this book is very well written, I have read Inkheart, anther book by Cornelia Funke. This book grabs you from the first page and you don't want to put it down until the last word. I think the story that is in the Thief Lord is just really cool and fun and everybody should read this book!

There is some language, Oh my Lo**, he**, and stuff like that, but nothing extreme.

Natalie

11 Birthdays by Wendy Mass

Title: 11 Birthdays

Author: Wendy Mass

Stars: 4

Description: Amanda's eleventh birthday should have been a happy occasion. Instead she's dresses in an itchy costume her mother picked out for her Hollywood-themed party (Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, even though flying monkeys have always creeped her out). Meanwhile, across town, her ex-best friend Leo is celebrating their joint birthday with a huge bash including a hypnotist, a football stars, a giant iguana, and a rock band. SO not fair. Amanda can't wait for the day AFTER her birthday so she can stop thinking about the fight that her and Leo to have separate parties for the first time in their lives. There's just one problem. The next day is her birthday all over again.

One of my readers asked me to review this and I saw this book on another review blog and I wanted to read it. Thanks, it gives me anther excuse to read it. :) Anyway, I do recommend this book to anybody who wants to read it. 11 Birthdays has adventure, friendliness and sometimes funny stuff.

I do not recall anything bad in this book except at Leo's birthday he has a hypnotist.

Natalie

Romancing Hollywood Nobody by Lisa Samson

Title: Romancing Hollywood Nobody

Author: Lisa Samson

Stars: 4

Description: Scotty and Charley find romance in the Highlands when a couple of cute guys in kilts look their way. How will Seth and Jeremy react when they realize the Ladies who were interested in them have captured the hearts of a young bagpiper and a Scottish actor? Meanwhile, as Scotty and her dad look for answers to their questions about faith, they also look for Scotty's mom. The search takes them deep into mob territory, where someone will go to any length to keep the past a secret. Will Scotty lose everything that's become important to her?

I really like this book because of the things that happen. I like that Charley finds true love and so does Scotty. I think that this is a really great Christian series that all girls will love. I also recommend this to everybody!


Scotty's friend Seth has slept with his kind-of-girlfriend, but it doesn't really go into it. A few kisses.


Natalie

The Mystery of the Ivory Charm by Carolyn Keene

Title: Mystery of the Ivory Charm

Author: Carolyn Keene

Stars: 3

Description: Nancy Drew determines whether an ivory elephant charm really protects its wearer from harm when she investigates the involvement of a member of the Bengleton Wild-Animal Show in a mysterious scheme.

This book is good, but there is one thing I didn't agree on, at the end of the book it says the ivory charm is the only way to save a life and it is also said to cause good luck to anybody that has the charm. That was a little different from all the other Nancy Drew books but this was still good.

Natalie

I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter

Title: I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You

Author: Ally Carter

Stars: 3

Description: Cammie Morgan is a student at the Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women, a fairly typical all-girls school-that is, if every school taught advanced martial arts in PE and the latest in chemical warfare in science, and students received extra credit for breaking CIA codes in computer class. The Gallagher Academy might claim to be a school for geniuses but it's really a school for spies.
Even though Cammie is fluent in fourteen languages and capable of killing a man in seven different ways, she has no idea what to do when she meets an ordinary boy who thinks she's an ordinary girl. Sure, she can tap his phone, hack into his computer, or track him through town with the skill of a real "pavement artist"-but can she maneuver a relationship with someone who can never know the truth about her? Cammie Morgan may be an elite spy-in-training, but in her sophomore year, she's on her most dangerous mission-falling in love.

This book is good but not one of my favorites. I think it does have a good story, but I think the relationship between Cammie and Josh went a little too fast. But I think some girls might like this book but it just depends on the girl. I thought this book was just all right, not perfect.

There are a couple of kisses in this book, and I don't exactly recall any language except in one part where it just says the character said the "B" word, but there might be a few Oh my Go*'s in there but I don't remember.

Natalie

Scale

I don't think I have been judging my books right, some were good but not the best in the whole world. So now here is a scale that shows what the stars mean.

1 star: I finished it but it was horrible
2 stars: It was OK, but I had to see how it ended
3 stars: I liked it
4 stars: I loved it
5: It is the best book in the whole world

Natalie

Forest of Secrets by Erin Hunter

Title: Forest of Secrets

Author: Erin Hunter

Stars: 4

Description: Allegiances are shifting among the Clans of warrior cats that roam the forest. With tensions so delicately balanced, former friends can become enemies overnight, and some cats are willing to kill to get what they want. Fireheart is determined to find out the truth about the mysterious death of brave Thunderclan warrior Redtail. But as he searches for answers, he uncovers secrets that some believe would be better left hidden.

The author does it again with the third book in the Warriors series. I love this book! Has a lot of surprising twist and turns. I totally advise this to people who love cats and really want a good series and book in their hands!

There are sad parts that I cried in and happy parts that I cried in, and some ones that just astonish me! I really think a lot of people would like this book!

Natalie

Finding Hollywood Nobody by Lisa Samson

Title: Finding Hollywood Nobody

Author: Lisa Samson

Stars: 5

Description: Scotty and Charley are headed for Marshall, Texas, with Biker Guy once more close on their trail. As Scotty tries to come to tearms with the reality of her parents' deaths, she grows friendly with the locals. That makes staying hidden challenging. But there's got to be more to life then fear, and through new friendships, Scotty learns that this prayer thing might work after all. Will prayer be enough when the situation is life and death? What happens when Biker Guy finally catches up to her?

This book has a very touching ending and I really love it! I really think that all Christian girls would love this series. I seriously recommend this to everybody. I think that this series is one of the best Christian YA books, and this series is along side the Christy Miller series! I want to thank the author for putting Scotty and Charley and all the other characters into this world!

Scotty does think that one of her friends slept with this movie star but it doesn't go into it a lot. Just a small discussion about it.

Love this book!

Natalie

The Message in the Hollow Oak by Carolyn Keene

Title: The Message in the Hollow Oak

Author: Carolyn Keene

Stars: 4

Description: A group of professional detectives challenge Nancy to tackle a mystery that they have failed to solve: to find an invaluable message hidden by a missionary centuries ago in a hollow oak tree in Illinois.

This Nancy Drew book didn't grab me as much as some of the previous Nancy Drew books I have read. Sometimes when I read this series it is always hard to remember the names of everybody and that was never the problem with the newer ones. But still this book was good!

Natalie

Ida B. And Her Plans to Maximize Fun, Aviod Disaster, and (Possibly) Save the World by Katherine Hannagan

Title: Ida B and Her Plans to Maximize Fun, Avoid Disaster, and (Possibly) Save the World

Author: Katherine Hannigan

Stars: 3

Description: Who is Ida B. Applewood? She is a fourth grader like no other, living a life like no other, with a voice like no other, and a family like no other, and her story will resonate long after this audio book has ended. How does Ida B. cope when outside forces--life, really--attempt to derail her and her family and her future? She enters her Black Period, and it is not pretty. But then, with the help of a patient teacher, a loyal cat and dog, her beloved apple trees, and parents who believe in the same things she does (even if they sometimes act as though they don't), the resilience that is the very essence of Ida B. triumphs . . . and Ida B. Applewood takes the hand that is extended and starts to grow up.

As you can see I gave this book three stars, now this book didn't really catch me as some other books do but I still liked it. The moral of the story was fabulous and I do recommend this book to other but Ida B. might not catch them as Ida B did to other readers!

Natalie

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Title: Uglies

Author: Scott Westerfeld

Stars: 4 1/2

Description: Tally is about to turn sixteen, and she can't wait. Not for her license-for turning pretty. In Tally's world, your sixteenth birthday brings an operation that turns you from a repellent ugly into a stunningly attractive pretty and catapults you into a high-tech paradise where your only job is to have a really great time. In just a few weeks Tally will be there. But Tally's new friend Shay isn't sure she wants to be a pretty. She'd rather risk life on the outside. When Shay runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world-and it isn't very pretty. The authorities offer Tally the worst choice she can imagine:find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all. The choice Tally makes changes her world forever.

When you turn sixteen, you whole life changes. You turn pretty. Not just pretty, drop dead beautiful. Tally Youngblood can't wait to turn sixteen. But soon she meets Shay, a girl who doesn't want to be turned pretty. When Shay runs away and Tally's birthday comes and she is about to become a pretty. But instead she is faced with a mission to bring back Shay, and along the way she unlocks some dangerous secrets...

This book is a great science-fiction book, the author has just a wonderful imagination! In this book there is just a whole new world that I could have never thought up, and I don't know how the author could think this up!

Tally is awesome and so are the all the other characters! I really think that a lot of people would like this book.

Natalie

Hollywood Nobody by Lisa Samson

Title: Hollywood Nobody

Author: Lisa Samson

Stars: 5

Description: Scotty Dawn has all the freedom a fifteen-year-old girl could want. As she and her mom, Charley, travel to movie sets for Charley's work, Scotty's allowed to go anywhere and be anything. But there are costs to such a life. Scotty doesn't know who she is, where she comes from, or who to trust. And who is the mysterious man they've been running from? Does he hold the the clue to Charley's big secret? Scotty writes in her Hollywood Nobody blog, and the answers she finds are darker then she had expected. Will she discover who she can trust and finally make sense of her world?

This first book in the Hollywood Nobody series is a MUST READ! I really love it, the author has a great imagination and is a great author! I love everything about this book, and the secrets that Scotty's mom reveals at the end are just fantastic! I really recommend it to everybody!

There is no language, but it realistically talks of temptations like drugs, sex, and getting drunk. This book is really great.

Natalie

Fire and Ice by Erin Hunter

Title: Fire and Ice

Author: Erin Hunter

Stars: 5

Description: Deep in the heart if the forest, Four Clans of Warrior cats coexist in uneasy harmony-but uncertain are upon them, and dangers threatens the precarious balance of the forest. Fireheart is a ThunderClan Warrior cat now, but is troubles are far from over. As the chill of Winter sets in, the cats of RiverClan go restless. While WindClan is weak and facing threats from all sides. As tensions build to an explosive climax, Fireheart faces not only imminent battle, but betrayal from within his own Clan.

I like this book a lot better then the first one! It has a lot more adventure and fun! There are amazing twists and turns and I can't wait to read more in the third book, Forest of Secrets! I advise everyone to read this series and I hope you like them!

Natalie

The Sword Thief by Peter Lerangis

Title: The Sword Thief

Author: Peter Leragnis

Stars: 5

Description: There's only one rule to find 39 Clues hidden around the world. TRUST NO ONE. But when the hunt leads fourteen-year-old Amy Cahill and her younger brother, Dan, to Japan, their only chance to find the third Clue seems to lie with their unreliable uncle, Alistair Oh. will they be foolish enough to make an alliance? with a clue on the line, Amy and Dan might not have a choice but it the Cahill family, trusting your relatives can get you killed...

This book is just as fun as the other 39 Clues books, but this time this book is different. Amy and Dan are getting help from their blood-thirsty relatives! And they are in Japan! I do recommend this book to all young readers who like adventure! Read the series now to learn more about Amy and Dan Cahill!

There is some language, nothing horrible except a few Oh my Go*'s. At the end of the book, they find a small treasure and gold Buddhas and they also talk about alchemist's. Those kind of things don't bother me at all, but they might bother other readers.

Natalie

The Clue of the Broken Locket by Carolyn Keene

Title: Clue of the Broken Locket

Author: Carolyn Keene

Stars: 5

Description: Nancy Drew's sympathy for adopted twin babies leads her into a surprising mystery. Here is a reproduction of the original book, just as it was originally published in 1934.

This book is quite intriguing and it has some very interesting twists to the story. I like the hole thing about to mistreated kids while their mom searches for them, that part will make you soften up! :) I do recommend this book to all the fans of Nancy Drew!

Natalie

A Tail of Emily Windsnap by Liz Kessler

Title: A Tail of Emily Windsnap

Author: Liz Kessler

Stars:

Description: Everybody has a secret. Mine's a little different, though. I didn't even know about it until the first day of swim class in seventh grade. You see, I'd never been allowed to go in the water before. As it turns out, swimming comes naturally to me. Very naturally. In fact, so naturally that you might even say...well, it's true. Here's my secret: I figured out that I'm a mermaid.

When I picked up this book I wasn't sure if I was going to like it. Well, it turns out that I LOVED it. My friend, Catie, said it was really good, and I had bought it from Barnes and Noble, so I thought I would give it a try.

Well, like I said I loved it! And I still love it! Some people might think it is cheesy, because in this book everything is what you expect. But I still loved it.

The language is fair enough I think. I was excepting for this book to be for like, 7 and 8 year old's, but than I figured out that it is more for 10 and up when I saw Oh my Go* twice. Now that word is not a big problem with me, but it might be to other readers.

Natalie

Password to Lakespur Lane by Carolyn Keene

Title: Password to Larkspur Lane

Author: Carolyn Keene

Stars: 5

Description: Nancy Drew solves two mysteries when she learns the origins of an eerie wheel of fire.

The last two Nancy Drew books have been somehow different then the other Nancy Drew books I have read, but I really like them! I think that The Sign of The Twisted Candles is still better then this one, but I absolutely recommend this to everybody!

Natalie

May Bird Among the Stars by Jodi Anderson

Title: May Bird Among the Stars

Author: Jodi Anderson

Stars: 5

Description: A fearful and fantastic realm located among the stars, the Ever After is full of manner of things that go bump in the night. And if May is to find her way out again, she must reach the mysterious Lady of North Farm, who lives in a cold, forbidding land that even the spooks find spooky. With her courageous (yet melancholy) Kitty and a ragtag group of spectral friends she's picked up along the way, May is determined to escape the Afterlife. But first she must face her very worst fears, and there's no telling who will make it though...or who will be left behind.

This book I think is a lot better then the first May Bird. This book has more adventure and comedy and a lot of other things that I and the other people that read this book will love! I think that if you loved the first book, try the second one!

Natalie

Roll of Thunder, Here my Cry by Mildred Taylor

Title: Roll of Thunder, Here my Cry

Author: Mildred Taylor

Stars: 4 1/2

Description: This is an extraordinarily moving novel-one you will not easily forget. Set in Mississippi at the height of the Depression, it is the story of one family's struggle top maintain their integrity, pride, and independence. It is a story of physical survival, but more important, it is a story of the survival of the human spirit.

This book is quite moving. It talks about what African American people really went through. But I am sure this book will make you cry. I don't like how the book ended, but I really do recommend it to everyone I know.

I think that this book was kind of slow at the beginning, but at the end it really touches your heart.

Who is your favorite character and why? Oh, wow, that is hard. I think it would have to be their Papa. Why? Because of his courage to save his family.

What is your favorite part and why? It would have to be the end part, when you really how mean our country was to African American people. Why? I know it is kind of weird that I would pick that part but it is the most moving.

Are you like the main character why or why aren't you? I don't think that I am because Cassie is very brave and has a lot of courage. And I might be able to do that just depend on what situation.

Natalie

What's New Scooby Doo? Season 1

Title: What's New Scooby-Doo? Season 1

Rated: Not Rated

Stars: 5

Description: Mystery, suspense, and crazy chases abound as Fred, Velma, Daphne, Shaggy, and Scooby-Doo renew their commitment to solving mysteries in this 2002 sequel to the original 1969 Scooby Doo television series. Marking a return to the mystery gang's initial five members after several seasons that included additional characters like Scooby-Dum and Scrappy, the What's New, Scooby-Doo series plays much like the original series despite being animated by Warner Brothers Television Animation rather than Hanna-Barbera. Fred, Velma, Daphne, Shaggy, and Scooby-Doo show some signs of maturation and growth since their inception, but the mystery gang is essentially still the same quirky, tight-knit group that stumbles inadvertently into one mystery after another and plunges in to investigate and unmask the villain(s) behind each strange happening. What's new in this 2002 series is the gang's utilization of high-tech gadgets like global positioning devices and laptop computers (though they still drive the same old mystery van) and their foes' crafty use of technological innovations like wireless remote controls and virtual reality gear. Add in updated popular music and guest stars like baseball great Mike Piazza and teen pop singer Lindsay Pagano and What's New, Scooby-Doo becomes attractive to a whole new generation of fans. The thirteen episodes in season one span the globe from icy snowboarding slopes to the jungles of Costa Rica, glitzy hotels of Las Vegas, and a game preserve in Africa. Bonus features include bloopers and a bonus 2005 episode "A Scooby-Doo Valentine" that stars NSYNC's J.C. Chasez.

I know I am 12 years old, but nobody is too old for the awesome Scooby Doo! My mom doesn't like the new Scooby Doo better then the old ones and she hates the theme song, but my brothers and I love this!

Natalie

ICarly Season 1 Volume 2

Title: ICarly

Nickelodeon

Rated: Not Rated

Stars: 5

Description: You asked for more, so you're getting more-more Season 1 of ICarly! Join Carly, Sam, and Freddie as they deal with all the craziness of school, growing up, and crankin' out the best web show out there! iCarly.com!

Here is ICarly again, the sequel to Season 1! These DVDS are just as fun as the first disc! With Carly, Sam, and Freddie, and their web show, see how much fun this show is! Carly's brother is really funny, Freddie is quirky, and Sam is a tomboy, and Carly is just plain fun!

Natalie