What We Saw at Night by Jacquelyn Mitchard

Name: Naorin Hossain Grade Level: 11
Title & Author: What We Saw at Night by Jacquelyn Mitchard
Impression: Good
Recommend: Yes

Favorite Part: My favorite part is when Allie first catches a glimpse of the possible murder in the apartment because that instigates all the action and crime in the book.
Favorite Character: My favorite character was Juliet because she is such a mysterious character. I love the motto she lives by: Everybody dies but not everybody really lives. She lives on the edge of danger but there is a lot she keeps hidden inside of her that leads her to cross the line with danger.
Summary: Allie, Rob, and Juliet suffer from XP - a skin disease that prevents them from going out in the sun. Basically, they are children of the night. One day while enjoying their new hobby - parkour - Allie sees what appears to be a murder through a window. When she goes to the police about this, they don't find anything and she is almost killed in an accident by the man she thinks is the murderer. So begins the fight to save herself and her best friend Juliet who appears to have mysterious ties to this man.

Goal! The Dream Begins by Robert Rigby

Goal! The Dream Begins by Robert Rigby

Impression: I think this book was amusing. I really liked every single part of this book. One of the reason I really liked this book is because it can teach me a life lesson. This book taught me one lesson; never give up on my dreams no matter what. I hope when you read this book you think the same.

Recommend: I would definitely recommend this book. I recommend this book to people that like soccer, and to people that know how hard it is to accomplish a dream. This book inspires people to try to achieve their goals; anyone who reads this book will not be disappointed with it.

Favorite part: In the book Goal! The Dream Begins by Robert Rigby, my favorite part of the story is when Santiago’s grandmother, Mercedes, gives Santiago his tickets to fly to London. In the book, it said that Santiago was an illegal immigrant, because of this Mercedes gave Santiago three tickets; one train ticket to go to San Diego from Los Angeles, second ticket was a bus ticket to Mexico City so he could fly to London legally, and the third a plane ticket to London. From this point on is where Santiago’s dream begins and he will do anything to achieve it, no matter how arduous it is.

Favorite character: In the book Goal! The Dream Begins by Robert Rigby, my favorite character was the main character, Santiago Munez. In the book, I read Santiago went through a lot of difficult situations that put in danger his dream of becoming a professional soccer player, after everything that occurred to Santiago, he never gave up, he followed his heart, he knew exactly where he was supposed to be, it’s green and it has goalposts at each end. This character’s personality shows determination; this is one of the main reasons why Santiago Munez is my favorite characters and one of my idols.

Summary: Santiago, a young Mexican American, has always been a soccer freak; his father believes that Santiago should take over the successful family landscaping business, but Santiago knows what he wants to do. Santiago will fight to the end until his dream comes true, this becomes much more easier when a Scottish scout, Glen, gets Santiago a trail with Newcastle United, will he be able to make his dream come true?

Written by: Alejandro P. an 8th grader at Secaucus Middle School

The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness

The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness

The book "The Knife of Never Letting Go" is the first book of "Chaos Walking". It is a Science Fiction and Speculative Fiction for young adult. It is written by Patrick Ness and it has 496 pages.

Prenisstown is one of the settlements in the New World. Every man in this world can hear each other's Noise, which is the men's thoughts. It is impossible for men to have secrets in the town. Todd Hewitt is the last boy in Prentisstown who will become a man in a month. He and his dog Manchee finds an area of complete silence when they were have a walk. They find out that there is a secret in the town that everyone was trying to hide from Todd. And Todd and Manchee must run for their lives.

Favorite Parts:

Todd fled with a girl named Viola Eade whom he met at the beginning of the journey. In the middle of the story Todd and Viola fled to another settlement in the New World and met Ben, one of Todd's adoptive parents. Ben, who was always trying to protect his son and has been looking for Todd ever since he fled Prentisstown. Ben told Todd he would sacrifice himself to give them more time to run and Todd was very sad about that. But Todd and Viola continued. While they were running away, Viola heard sadness in Todd's Noise.

Favorite Quotes:

She steps up close to me. "Do you think you're the only person who's lost someone?" she says in a dangerous whisper, “Do you forget that my parents are dead, too?"

........

“All I’ve got now is you," she says, her voice still angry. "And all you've got now is me. And I'm mad Ben left, too, and I'm mad my parents died and I'm mad we ever thought of coming to this planet in the first place but that's how it is and it sucks that it's just us but we can't do anything about it."

........

Her voice softens but only a little. “Ben’s gone and Manchee's gone and my mother and father are gone," she says. "And I hate all of that. I hate it .But we're almost at the end of the road. We're almost there. And if you don't give up, I don' give up."

I love this part because it is very moving and I can feel Todd and Viola grow up once they are losing someone who loves them. They stay stronger and it makes them have more courage to face the problems they meet.

Recommend: I recommend this book to anyone who likes science fiction or adventure stories. If you love a story that is about finding the truth while running for your lives, then this book will be a good choice.

Written by Yue H., grade 8 (Secaucus Middle School student)

Finally (Willow Falls #2) by Wendy Mass

What did you read?
This book is by Wendy Mass. It has 296 pages and his funny.he is okay when she calls. For example,Rory's best friend is like her mom. She always asks her mother if I don't really like the ending much.

What is it about:    
Rory Swenson has been waiting her whole life to turn twelve.She has a list to prove it.Whenever Rory asks her parents for something they always say when you're twelve. This story is about growing up even when the universe seems to be telling you to wait.

Favorite Part:
My favorite part was when Rory was babystting an "innocent" girl. The girl was turning the clock back every time Rory went to the bathroom so the girl wouldn't go to sleep at 8:30.

Recommendation:  I recommend this book to anyone who likes realistic fiction and mystery in one book mixed together.

Written by Zara K. of Huber Street School            

The Selection by Keira Cass

The Selection by Keira Cass

The Selection is a dystopian teen book about red-headed girl named America Singer who is one of 35 girls selected to compete for a chance at love with Prince Maxon.

I repeat… America is one of 35 girls who is selected to compete for a chance at love with Prince Maxon.

 Does this sound familiar at all to anyone?

 The story to me seemed divided into sections. We first learn that people and their families are broken up into classes. Their class pretty much defines their income, what they can eat, where they can live and who they marry.  In order to move up in class you either have to be extremely lucky, exile yourself from your family and friends and hope someone offers you a higher ranking job (maybe? I don’t remember 100%), marry someone in a higher class, or get selected to marry a prince.

 So, America’s life isn’t perfect and funny – her name reflects her talent. Besides that – she doesn’t think she’s pretty when in fact people are “stunned” by her beauty.  She is in love with her lower section/class boyfriend Aspen whom her family will never allow her to marry or be with. Despite a strict curfew, America sneaks off into the night with food for Aspen and they cuddle.

 Aspen, of course, feels uncomfortable taking America’s food since her family really doesn’t have that much extra money and they end up fighting when he encourages her to try out for a chance of being selected as one of Prince Maxon’s girls.

Anyway –long story – short version: America decides to ditch her rags and get dolled up for the competition to win Prince Maxon’s heart. 

Cass’s novel is a quick read for those looking for a love story and great imagery! 

Original Post: http://splyouths.tumblr.com/post/31271901868/the-selection-by-keira-cass

Guest Post: Mrs. G - Secaucus School Librarian

Name: Mrs. G   Title & Author:  Breaking Stalin’s Nose by Eugene Yelchin

What was your impression of this book?:  Good

Would you recommend this book to a friend: Yes  

What was your favorite part?

The most interesting part for me happened when 10 year-old, Sasha, after a very trying day, physically and emotionally passes out and has a conversation with Stalin’s nose.

Who was your favorite character? Why?

By far, my favorite character was 10 year-old Sasha, but coming in for a strong second, his classmate, Vovka.

Write a small summary (without giving away the ending)

Ten-year-old Sasha Zaichik has done nothing but dream of becoming a Young Pioneer in Comrade Stalin young communist party. But after two very trying days, he discovers that maybe everything he knew about the Soviet government was all a bunch of lies. 

Additional feedback (optional)                                     

Breaking Stalin’s Nose caught my attention, I love titles; however, working as a school librarian I am confused as to what age group Eugene Yelchin is targeting? Sasha’s life changing experience had me glued to the book. It teaches communism, and Stalin’s cleansing in a nut shell. It is a very simple for 6th to 9th graders. If a 1st grader to 4th, came home with this book, as a parent I might be upset. First, I don’t think they would get the message, and second it was kind of scary. When I received this book for my collection it was cataloged as juvenile fiction, I cataloged it as YA. YA is more age appropriate. I also passed the book on to a 7th grade teacher who utilizes Youtube, among other contemporary approaches to teach communism. It is a good book with excellent illustrations. 

Pandora's Key (Book 1 of the Key Trilogy) by Nancy Richardson Fischer

Pandora's Key (Book 1 of the Key Trilogy)

by Nancy Richardson Fischer

Book Review By: Jessie,  Grade: 7

The Wind of Life: The Flyers & The Wind of Life: The Wanderers by Oliver Neubert

The Wind of Life: The Flyers & The Wind of Life: The Wanderers

 by Oliver Neubert                                           

  

Book Review By: Mamie,  Grade: 7

Holes by Louis Sachar

Introduction

A book that I loved is Holes by Louis Sachar.  It's about a boy named Stanley, and it'll help you wondering what's going to happen next. 

About the book

In the book, Stanley gets arrested for something he didn't do.  He goes to Camp Green Lake, where he has to dig a hole everyday.  He gets the feeling that the Warden is looking for something though.

Favorite Part

My favorite part of the book is when Stanley and Zero climb the mountain to find refuge on it.  They live off of onions and water for days.

My recommendation

If you like realistic fiction, then this book is for you.  It has suspense, and twists.  Like I said, Holes will keep you on the edge of your seat.

This review is written by Philip M., Grade 6

The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

Introduction

The book is The Lost Hero. It is about a kid named Jason who goes on an epic journey to save the world, return his identity, and stop the evil from rising. 

About the book

In this book, the main characters are Piper, Jason, and Leo. They go across the U.S.A. trying to save the imprisoned Hero and regain the past.  Each have their own powers and skills to defeat evil.

Favorite Part

My favorite part of this book is when they verse a one-eyed cyclopes in a volcano.  In this part, Piper is held in a bondage of ropes while Leo is stuck in a cyclopes's mouth.  Jason uses a golden sword to defeat a long struggle.  He stabs the cyclopes and releases Piper.

My recommendation

I would recommend this book because it carries action, suspense, and adventure.

This review is written by Anonymous, Grade 6

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli

Introduction

Maniac Magee is about a boy who runs away from his aunt and uncle and lives life on his own. 

About the book

Maniac Magee runs away to his old home town but has a journey on the way. He meets friends and enemies but does he make it home?

Favorite Part

My favorite part of the book was the beginning where they introduce what made him want to run away. His parents had died and he had to live with a family that fights a lot.

My recommendation

To tell you the truth as an 11 year old girl I did not enjoy the book and neither did a lot of my friends. It had many boring sections and I would think elsewhere when I read it. 

This review is written by Salma E., Grade 6.

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Introduction

In this book called Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater, this book starts off by a werewolf (both human and wolf) saves this girl's life (her name is Grace). After he saves her life, be begins to have feelings for her, lucky for him he turns human so he can be with her. 

About the book

This whole book is about how they live their lives together and how they try to live this way while they are in love with each other. Throughout their adventure, Grace has to try to keep Sam (the werewolf) from turning back into a wolf so he can stay human. This has many effects on their relationship.

Favorite Part

My favorite part of this book is the ending because it has to do with an important "love" moral. The lesson is that if you love something let it go. If it comes back, it's yours forever if it doesn't it was never yours.  This happens between Grace and Sam.

My recommendation

I recommend this book to anyone who likes werewolves, love/romantic stories in which contain sacrificing whatever it takes to give something to the one you love.  

This review is written by Felicity A., Grade 6

Call It Courage by Armstrong Sperry

Introduction

One of my favorite books is Call it Courage. It is an adventure book with lots of suspense. The main character is Mafatu. Mafatu is a boy who travels to an island with lots of danger there.

About the book

In the book, Mafatu is made fun of by other people in his tribe because he is scared of the sea. When Mafatu was young, the Sea god had killed his mother. From then on, Mafatu was scared of the sea. So, he went on a boat to another island to prove he is not scared. But, there are terrible dangers Mafatu encounters.

Favorite Part

I am like Mafatu because so many people make fun of me.  So, I try to show that I am not scared of anything.

My recommendation

This book is very good for people who like adventures and suspense!

This review is written by Shreyas A., grade 6

Percy Jackson and The Olympians book 1: The Ligtning Thief by Rick Riordan

Introduction

Another book I love is Percy Jackson and The Olympians book 1: The Ligtning Thief. It's by Rick Riordan.

About the book

The book is about a demigod person with a parent that's a greek god named Percy Jckson. He finds out that his dad is Poseidon. Poseidon was framed for stealing Zeus's master bolt, and it's up to Percy and his friends to get it back.

Favorite Part

My favorite part is when Percy is trapped by another demigod.  It's a spoiler, so I don't want to get into it.

My recommendation

If you're interested in Greek Mythology, then you'll like this book. If you like this book, I recommend the rest of the series.  I'd also recommend The Lost Hero, and The Red Pyramid, also by Rick Riordan. 

This review is written by Philip M., grade 6

A Child Named "It" : One Child's Courage to Survive by Dave Pelzer

Introduction

A Child Named It is a book about an abusive mother and his challenge through the physical and mental pain.

About the book

In the beginning his mother is an ordinary commercial mother who is very loving. But suddenly she snaps and takes all her troubles out on her son named David

Favorite Part

My favorite part about the book is the beginning when his mother loves him with all her heart and the whole family is perfect.

My recommendation

I loved this book.  It immediately got my attention, and brought tears to my eyes. I couldn't put it down and I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone.

This review is written by Salma E., grade 6

Every Soul A Star by Wendy Mass

Introduction

In this boo, "Every Soul A Star" by Wendy Mass it starts off by introducing the characters Ally, BRee, and Jack and their personalities. 

About the book

Throughout the book, Ally, Bree, and Jack all have a problem.  All their problems involve the campground that Ally's family owns. On their way, throughout the book they all become friends and just learn an important lesson in the end.

Favorite Part

My favorite part of the book is when there is an eclipse and all the characters are watching. While they're watching they realize, nothing else matters more than enjoying the moment that's happening right here, right now.

My recommendation

You will love this book because it involves friendship, some what of a love story, humor and many more enjoyable themes that I'm sure will grab the attention of its viewers.

This review is written by Felicity A., grade 6

The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan

Introduction

The book that I'm reviewing is The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan.  It's about a kid named Percy Jackson that has to struggle against the rise of Kronos.

About the book

This book is about Percy and his journey to find Luke, an enemy and to kill the rise of the Titans. Accompanying Percy on his journey is Annabeth, Nico, and Grover.

Favorite Part

My favorite part is when the Gods VS Titans.  This is when Poseidon and Zeus combined  their power to form an electric wave. They defeated Typhon and Percy went to head with Kronos. He forced Kronos to kill himself!

My recommendation

I would recommend this book because it is the final conclusion of a kid against the legendary Kronos.

This review is written by Unknown, grade 6

Million-Dollar Throw by Mike Lupica

Introduction

The book that I'm going to talk about is Million-Dollar Throw. The two main characters were Peggy and Joe.  Joe loves Tom Brady, and he has been picked for a competition on TV.

About the book

The competition was to throw a football into a hole landing in a sack at the halftime show of a Patriots game. If he makes it in the hole, he wins $1,000,000.  Here's the throw.........

Favorite Part

My favorite part of the book is very exciting.  It is obviously when he tries for the million dollars.  There, it goes, flying through the air, boom! It goes in! $1,000,000! He ended up donating it for a cure for the blind.  Peggy was blind and got a cure for her blindness.

My recommendation

This was a great ending! I would definitely recommend this to whomever enjoys sports and inspirational books.  I give this 5 stars!

This review is written by Robert K., grade 6

More Bones: Scary Stories from Around the World by Arielle North Olson

Introduction

The book that I'm going to talk about is More Bones. This book doesn't have any main characaters, because it is a book with various scary stories.

About the book

This book has very intriguing and frightening stories.  The stories are from different countries.  They were actually pretty scary to me. 

Favorite Part

My favorite part was when a girl pretended to eat a human, but it was just candy.  Then the boy got furious and said he wanted the real deal! She ended up running away in horror.

My recommendation

I recommend this book to anyone who likes to enjoy scary stories at night.  I didn't really like it because it was kind of dull. But some people might like this book.  Some of the stories are pretty interesting though.

This review is written by Robert K., grade 6

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

Introduction

The best book created in the world is Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.  The main character is the famous Harry Potter.  This is the final book in which Harry Potter tries to kill Voldemort.

About the book

Harry has found out that Voldemort has made 7 horcruxes, two of which have already been destroyed.  Horcruxes are objects in which a person stores part of his soul in.  Now, Harry just needs to destroy the last 5 horcruxes before battling Voldemort. Will he sucessed? To find out read Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Favorite Part

My favorite part is when Harry finally fights with Voldemort, it is the most climatic part of the story.

My recommendation

If you like stories about wizards and with suspense, you will love this book. So, read Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (P.S. Reading the whole series in order will make the experience a lot better).


This review is written by Shreyas A., grade 6