Chess for KidsBy: Michael Basman
Reviewed by: Trey Lewis, 12
Rating: Really liked itReviewed by: Trey Lewis, 12
Those who are beginning to play chess this book will put a new twist in how you look at chess.
Recommended to: Beginners at Chess
Monday, August 29, 2011
Chess for Kids
Chess for KidsThose who are beginning to play chess this book will put a new twist in how you look at chess.
Recommended to: Beginners at Chess
Disgrace
DisgraceBy: J.M. Coetzee
Reviewed by: szoghi, 17
Rating: Really liked itReviewed by: szoghi, 17
This book is about a professor who uses his power to exploit a student intimately. Although at first she tried shying away from him, he searched the campus directories and phone books until he found her. It is a disturbing novel on how the professor, David Lurie, conducts himself after being discovered of his sin. Now considered a social outcast, David moves to live with his daughter Melanie. Although she lives in a peaceful place in the countryside, they are disrupted when intruders come and rape her. Now, the Lurie family has to deal with these new issues, issues that parallel the problems in South Africa at the time. This is definitely a book to read, because of the powerful details, imagery, and plot. The reader is exposed to some major flaws of society.
Recommended to: Ages 16 and Up
Waiting for the Barbarians
Waiting for the BarbariansBy: J.M. Coetzee
Reviewed by: szoghi, 17
Rating: It was alright...Reviewed by: szoghi, 17
Here is another book by J.M. Coetzee that I will be critiquing. With a similar plot structure as Disgrace, I don't really think it was worth the read. However, there were some differences with the setting and character developments. Just like Disgrace, the main character is an older man with a lust for younger women. Although this man isn't a college professor, he is a powerful individual. When barbarian prisoners are brought into their camp, they are mistreated and abused. However, the magistrate, who is the main character, saves one of the girls from further abuse and shelter her and cares for her. His nurturing of her eventually leads to intimate contact with her, although not very passionate. Eventually, she is returned to her tribe and the magistrate is locked up for his defiance to comply with the empires orders. This book is interesting in the way it deals with the character development. The magistrate seems to progress throughout the novel, because when he sees the cruel treatment the empire employs, he begins to defy their laws and rebel against them.
Recommended to: Ages 17 and Up
Friday, August 12, 2011
Miss Peregrine's Home for Unusual Children
Miss Peregrine's Home for Unusual ChildrenBy: Ransom Riggs
Reviewed by: Yaz, age 18
Rating: Really liked it!
The creepy cover made me curious about this book when I first saw it but when I watched the trailer and it actually gave me chills I was convinced that I wanted to read it, I was definitely curious to find out more about the peculiar children that I saw in the trailer and see all the photos inside this book. However, after i got the book, I was really kind of surprised to find out that it wasn't really as creepy as I initially thought it would be! Nonetheless, it had much more to it than pictures and the story just kept surprising me with twists along the way.
Overall, the book was really eccentric and in a way peculiar. I enjoyed Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children.
I would recommend this to: Ages 13 and up
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
The creepy cover made me curious about this book when I first saw it but when I watched the trailer and it actually gave me chills I was convinced that I wanted to read it, I was definitely curious to find out more about the peculiar children that I saw in the trailer and see all the photos inside this book. However, after i got the book, I was really kind of surprised to find out that it wasn't really as creepy as I initially thought it would be! Nonetheless, it had much more to it than pictures and the story just kept surprising me with twists along the way.
Overall, the book was really eccentric and in a way peculiar. I enjoyed Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children.
I would recommend this to: Ages 13 and up
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Draw 50 Famous Cartoons
Draw 50 Famous Cartoons
By: Lee J. Ames
Reviewed by: Yaz, age 18
Rating: It was amazing!
I dont really know how to draw. But this book has been in my house for the longest time.. So I decided it was time to try it out. Im so glad i did! So this drawing book has 50 characters cartoons that you actually probably already can recognize. And all you have to do to draw them is copy the steps, step by step to be able to get a decent drawing of the cartoon! They did a really good job with the final art and the choice of characters were also magnificent. You night need a little brushing up of basic skills before you try some of these cartoons. Even if you dont, its fine, that's OK, we all have to startt somewhere, right!
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
I dont really know how to draw. But this book has been in my house for the longest time.. So I decided it was time to try it out. Im so glad i did! So this drawing book has 50 characters cartoons that you actually probably already can recognize. And all you have to do to draw them is copy the steps, step by step to be able to get a decent drawing of the cartoon! They did a really good job with the final art and the choice of characters were also magnificent. You night need a little brushing up of basic skills before you try some of these cartoons. Even if you dont, its fine, that's OK, we all have to startt somewhere, right!
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
How To Train Your Dragon
How to Train Your Dragon
By: Chris Sanders & Dean DeBlois
Reviewed by: Yaz, age 17
Rating: It was amazing!
Hiccup, a very small Viking boy wishes to kill dragons to impress his fellow peoples and to prove that he is as tough as them. However, he finds that he's more of a dragon trainer than he is a dragon killer when he captures a dragon. His pet dragon (my favorite character) teaches Hiccup that his people were wrong about dragons all along.
Ok, now to the review! How to Train Your Dragon is easily one of Dreamworks best. I honestly think I even enjoyed it more than anything else they have done. The story is even better executed and the action is more exciting than any other digital movie i have seen. You HAVE to see it if you havent already in theaters.
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Madera County Library
Hiccup, a very small Viking boy wishes to kill dragons to impress his fellow peoples and to prove that he is as tough as them. However, he finds that he's more of a dragon trainer than he is a dragon killer when he captures a dragon. His pet dragon (my favorite character) teaches Hiccup that his people were wrong about dragons all along.
Ok, now to the review! How to Train Your Dragon is easily one of Dreamworks best. I honestly think I even enjoyed it more than anything else they have done. The story is even better executed and the action is more exciting than any other digital movie i have seen. You HAVE to see it if you havent already in theaters.
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Madera County Library
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Ace of Spades (www.ace-spades.com)
Ace of Spades
By: Ben Aksoy
Reviewed by: Han Wang, age 16
Rating: It was amazing!
Ace of Spades is a 3D, first person shooter. Not only does the game look like a low resolution version of Minecraft, but it boasts nearly the same building and mining opportunities. The game is split into player-hosted servers that can hold up to thirty-two players.
Once in a server, a player can chose his or her team, blue or green, and his or her weapon of choice, semi-machine gun or semi-automatic rifle-all with a couple of keystrokes. In addition to his or her weapon, every player is equipped with a pickaxe, two grenades, and 50 building blocks.
The goal of the game varies according to the server. In the beginning, all colored briefcases that shows up on the map as a blue or green square ring. The intel is typically located in the back of the team's base; in order to get the intel, most people will either try to tunnel below it or continually harass the enemy base with a group.
Yet a significant number of players don't abide by the server rules and just build to his or her heart's desire or camp in high places where counterattack is nearly impossible.
After the most recent patch, some servers began hosting team death matches, in which teams compete to reach a certain number of kills. This game mode isn't recommended for people with terrible aim or mouse pads. Teams typically build elaborate opposing fortresses that allow players to crouch and peek up to shoot from several windows. Close combat is rare, almost nonexistent.
Some servers even offer the opportunity to cash in kill streaks (five straight kills or more with a minimum of 15 kills total) for tactical airstrikes that look like a lot of grenades dropping in one area at once.
The player gains one point for every kill, and ten points for capturing the intel, and the beauty of it all is that points don't matter at all! There's nothing to level up, and no achievements to gather. In order for a player to figure out his or her or anybody else's kdr, he or she would need a pencil and paper on hand.
Playing AoS is all about living in the moment, about finally reaching the light at the end of the tunnel to gain a bird's eye view of the enemy's spawn point, about soaking in pride after building a massive bridge to nowhere and about sneaking a grenade through a window in the enemy's wall and getting a quadruple kill.
So, why build in Ace of Spades instead of in Minecraft? Well, I can think of two reasons: AoS is a) completely free and b) far less computer intensive. However, buildings in AoS don't last very long; though players are willing to build, some rather destroy, or grief.
I haven't gotten into the modding yet! The player can customize the appearance of his or her tools and other players by downloading the community's creations or making his or her own modifications.
Please give this game a try. It only takes at most a couple of minutes to download, and only seconds to start having fun.
I would recommend this to: Anybody who can tolerate uncensored chat and wants to engage in meaningless fun.
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Ace of Spades is a 3D, first person shooter. Not only does the game look like a low resolution version of Minecraft, but it boasts nearly the same building and mining opportunities. The game is split into player-hosted servers that can hold up to thirty-two players.
Once in a server, a player can chose his or her team, blue or green, and his or her weapon of choice, semi-machine gun or semi-automatic rifle-all with a couple of keystrokes. In addition to his or her weapon, every player is equipped with a pickaxe, two grenades, and 50 building blocks.
The goal of the game varies according to the server. In the beginning, all colored briefcases that shows up on the map as a blue or green square ring. The intel is typically located in the back of the team's base; in order to get the intel, most people will either try to tunnel below it or continually harass the enemy base with a group.
Yet a significant number of players don't abide by the server rules and just build to his or her heart's desire or camp in high places where counterattack is nearly impossible.
After the most recent patch, some servers began hosting team death matches, in which teams compete to reach a certain number of kills. This game mode isn't recommended for people with terrible aim or mouse pads. Teams typically build elaborate opposing fortresses that allow players to crouch and peek up to shoot from several windows. Close combat is rare, almost nonexistent.
Some servers even offer the opportunity to cash in kill streaks (five straight kills or more with a minimum of 15 kills total) for tactical airstrikes that look like a lot of grenades dropping in one area at once.
The player gains one point for every kill, and ten points for capturing the intel, and the beauty of it all is that points don't matter at all! There's nothing to level up, and no achievements to gather. In order for a player to figure out his or her or anybody else's kdr, he or she would need a pencil and paper on hand.
Playing AoS is all about living in the moment, about finally reaching the light at the end of the tunnel to gain a bird's eye view of the enemy's spawn point, about soaking in pride after building a massive bridge to nowhere and about sneaking a grenade through a window in the enemy's wall and getting a quadruple kill.
So, why build in Ace of Spades instead of in Minecraft? Well, I can think of two reasons: AoS is a) completely free and b) far less computer intensive. However, buildings in AoS don't last very long; though players are willing to build, some rather destroy, or grief.
I haven't gotten into the modding yet! The player can customize the appearance of his or her tools and other players by downloading the community's creations or making his or her own modifications.
Please give this game a try. It only takes at most a couple of minutes to download, and only seconds to start having fun.
I would recommend this to: Anybody who can tolerate uncensored chat and wants to engage in meaningless fun.
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
The Lord of the Rings and Philosophy
The Lord of the Rings and Philosophy
By: Gregory Basham and Eric Bronson
Reviewed by: Yaz, age 18
Rating: Really liked it!
This book is definitely a great book for young people who have read the books and want a bit more. I recommend this book ONLY to people who have read the books. I persuaded several of my friends to read a bit of this book and they were completely bewildered. If you know enough to understand what they're talking about then this book is wonderfully enlightening. This book is a great read that gives The Lord of the Rings much more meaning.
It goes deeply into the world of LOTR and actually gives you a meaning behind everything that happens and is able to relate it to the real world and what is going on in our lives.
If you really want to understand what LOTR is about, then read this book!
I would recommend this to: Advanced readers
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
This book is definitely a great book for young people who have read the books and want a bit more. I recommend this book ONLY to people who have read the books. I persuaded several of my friends to read a bit of this book and they were completely bewildered. If you know enough to understand what they're talking about then this book is wonderfully enlightening. This book is a great read that gives The Lord of the Rings much more meaning.
It goes deeply into the world of LOTR and actually gives you a meaning behind everything that happens and is able to relate it to the real world and what is going on in our lives.
If you really want to understand what LOTR is about, then read this book!
I would recommend this to: Advanced readers
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
By: Lewis Carroll (Drawings by Allison Jay)
Reviewed by: Yaz, age 18
Rating: Really liked it!
Having a lot of little cousins jumping around during summer time can be an extreme mess. However, I've found out a perfect way to channel their energy. And this children's novel has proved to be perfect.
The classic tale of Alice always seems to make my young cousins sleep off. But I realize that I'm always a little drowsy after reading it as well! Lewis Carroll has a beautiful way with words which keeps the reader interested but also lets your imagination run wild. Definitely a need read, whether you are old or young, its good to revisit the classics.
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Having a lot of little cousins jumping around during summer time can be an extreme mess. However, I've found out a perfect way to channel their energy. And this children's novel has proved to be perfect.
The classic tale of Alice always seems to make my young cousins sleep off. But I realize that I'm always a little drowsy after reading it as well! Lewis Carroll has a beautiful way with words which keeps the reader interested but also lets your imagination run wild. Definitely a need read, whether you are old or young, its good to revisit the classics.
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Freakonomics (DVD)
Freakonomics
By: Steven D. Levitt
Reviewed by: Yaz, age 18
Rating: It was amazing!
A brilliant book for those who like to life the lid on life's little mysteries.
Establishing an understanding of economics makes you feel as if you can look into the crystal ball and vaguely see into the future which is great. This book gives you some great insight in an easily digestible and most importantly, fun way. Many kids these days, are not exactly familiar with how economics works, and this movie is a perfect yet fun introduction for kids. There is some language here and there, so I would recommend this to ages 13+.
I would recommend this to: Ages 13 and up
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
A brilliant book for those who like to life the lid on life's little mysteries.
Establishing an understanding of economics makes you feel as if you can look into the crystal ball and vaguely see into the future which is great. This book gives you some great insight in an easily digestible and most importantly, fun way. Many kids these days, are not exactly familiar with how economics works, and this movie is a perfect yet fun introduction for kids. There is some language here and there, so I would recommend this to ages 13+.
I would recommend this to: Ages 13 and up
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Tsubasa 1
Tsubasa 1
By: Clamp
Reviewed by: Trey Lewis, age 12
Rating: It was amazing!
Syoran and Sakura are very fit for each other! This Japanese style book will make you understand the true meaning of relationships and adventure!
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Syoran and Sakura are very fit for each other! This Japanese style book will make you understand the true meaning of relationships and adventure!
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Hit and Run
Hit and Run
By: Lurlene McDaniel
Reviewed by: Yaz, age 18
Rating: I really liked it!
I read this book about a week ago and since it was a book on my summer reading list. To be honest, it was an excellent book. Very well written and suspenseful and because of that, I really enjoyed it. However, there was one thing that bothered me as I was reading this book. I really do wish I knew what happened to the characters after the confession was made. It wasn't clear if there was a trial? What happened? It would be nice to read a proper "SEQUEL" to this book so that the readers can actually know what happened in the end! It took us to a climax and just left us there.
Other than that, it was an extremely good book and I would totally read it over again on a hot summer day.
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Madera County Library
I read this book about a week ago and since it was a book on my summer reading list. To be honest, it was an excellent book. Very well written and suspenseful and because of that, I really enjoyed it. However, there was one thing that bothered me as I was reading this book. I really do wish I knew what happened to the characters after the confession was made. It wasn't clear if there was a trial? What happened? It would be nice to read a proper "SEQUEL" to this book so that the readers can actually know what happened in the end! It took us to a climax and just left us there.
Other than that, it was an extremely good book and I would totally read it over again on a hot summer day.
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Madera County Library
The Giver
The Giver
By: Lois Lowry
Reviewed by: Tahrima, age 16
Rating: It was all right.
The Giver is about a young boy named Jonas. He resides in a futuristic society in which each citizen is assigned to a job, a spouse, and children. The children are born to mothers who will never get to see them. Trying not to give anymore away, I will only say that Jonas is assigned an important job and is challenged with the release of an innocent child. Jonas is left with the option of leaving his home, job, and family to save the child, or facing the harsh reality of his community and job, and enduring the release of the child.
I would recommend this to:
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
The Giver is about a young boy named Jonas. He resides in a futuristic society in which each citizen is assigned to a job, a spouse, and children. The children are born to mothers who will never get to see them. Trying not to give anymore away, I will only say that Jonas is assigned an important job and is challenged with the release of an innocent child. Jonas is left with the option of leaving his home, job, and family to save the child, or facing the harsh reality of his community and job, and enduring the release of the child.
I would recommend this to:
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Up
Up
By: Pete Doctor
Reviewed by: Yaz, age 18
Rating: It was amazing!
I just watched this movie for the very first time. I love this film. The movie is about an elderly man named Carl Fredericksen and a cute chubby young Wilderness Explorer that goes by the name of "Russell". The whole movie revolves around their adventure to Paradise Falls. The move is extremely appropriate for all ages, and even my parents loved watching it. Although very subtle, life lessons from this movie can be learned like never giving up on your dreams, because if you do, you will always feel unfulfilled.
this is a movie for ALL ages, young and old alike. I enjoyed this movie more than any I've seen in a long time. And I definitely will be watching this again!
I would recommend this to: Literally everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
I just watched this movie for the very first time. I love this film. The movie is about an elderly man named Carl Fredericksen and a cute chubby young Wilderness Explorer that goes by the name of "Russell". The whole movie revolves around their adventure to Paradise Falls. The move is extremely appropriate for all ages, and even my parents loved watching it. Although very subtle, life lessons from this movie can be learned like never giving up on your dreams, because if you do, you will always feel unfulfilled.
this is a movie for ALL ages, young and old alike. I enjoyed this movie more than any I've seen in a long time. And I definitely will be watching this again!
I would recommend this to: Literally everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Hulk: Misunderstood Monster
Hulk: Misunderstood Monster
By: Paul Benjamin
Reviewed by: Yaz, age 18
Rating: Really liked it!
This is a collection of the stories of the Incredible Hulk. It has four really exciting different stories that tell the life and the ongoing adventures of Bruce Banner a.k.a. the Incredibly Hulk. It starts out with the transformation of Bruce into the Hulk which was an accident in the first place. I like this rendition of the Hulk story because even newbies who are not familiar with the story of Hulk of Marvel Universe will know what's happening!
The stories also introduce several reappearing characters with enough information that the reader will know who they are and what is their relation to Bruce/Hulk. I definitely recommend this to any kid or teen that has an interest in comics.
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
This is a collection of the stories of the Incredible Hulk. It has four really exciting different stories that tell the life and the ongoing adventures of Bruce Banner a.k.a. the Incredibly Hulk. It starts out with the transformation of Bruce into the Hulk which was an accident in the first place. I like this rendition of the Hulk story because even newbies who are not familiar with the story of Hulk of Marvel Universe will know what's happening!
The stories also introduce several reappearing characters with enough information that the reader will know who they are and what is their relation to Bruce/Hulk. I definitely recommend this to any kid or teen that has an interest in comics.
I would recommend this to: Everyone
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt. 2 (Movie)
By: David Yates
Reviewed by: awesomeVia, age 17
Rating: Really liked it!
I am saying this last every Harry Potter movie is really good so that they don't trample me. Also, I actually did think this movie was pretty good. It was an amazing end to the Harry Potter series.
I can't really explain the plot since I am afraid to spoil this movie for people that have seen it, but all I can say was I left the theater amazed. Also, I am assuming that this movie goes along with the plot of the last Harry Potter book by J.K. Rowling.
The ending is REALLY brilliant, so brilliant I can't even say. The duel scene with Harry versus Voldemort (AKA the man who shall not be named) was phenomenal as well as the friendship between Harry, Ron, and Hermione, it is still going strong after about 10 years.
I am not an avid fan of the Harry Potter series since I have barely read the books but watched all the movies so fans, please don't trample me. I am just writing about how fantastic the last movie is.
I would recommend this to: Anyone who has read all 7 of the Harry Potter books or has watched all 7 of the last movies.
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
I am saying this last every Harry Potter movie is really good so that they don't trample me. Also, I actually did think this movie was pretty good. It was an amazing end to the Harry Potter series.
I can't really explain the plot since I am afraid to spoil this movie for people that have seen it, but all I can say was I left the theater amazed. Also, I am assuming that this movie goes along with the plot of the last Harry Potter book by J.K. Rowling.
The ending is REALLY brilliant, so brilliant I can't even say. The duel scene with Harry versus Voldemort (AKA the man who shall not be named) was phenomenal as well as the friendship between Harry, Ron, and Hermione, it is still going strong after about 10 years.
I am not an avid fan of the Harry Potter series since I have barely read the books but watched all the movies so fans, please don't trample me. I am just writing about how fantastic the last movie is.
I would recommend this to: Anyone who has read all 7 of the Harry Potter books or has watched all 7 of the last movies.
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Cat's Cradle
Cat's Cradle
By: Kurt Vonnegut
Reviewed by: Han Wang, age 16
Rating: Really liked it!
Meet Dr. Felix Hoenikker, a misdiagnosed idiot savant. Meet Hoenikker's equally misunderstood offspring; they helped bring out the end of days! In Vonnegut's alternative account of the dawn of the Nuclear Age, science represents chaotic, dangerously merciless truth while religion nurtures lies to those incapable of pursuing happiness.
Most of the book went over my head, but I played along. I allowed my mind to be tangled by Vonnegut's deeply confusing, yet entrancing breed of satire so that I would eventually reach the end of the book and be done with it.
The pages flew by. I do not know what kind of literary magic the author casts, but his decision to divide the book into many chapters had a therapeutic effect on me.
By the time I finished the book, I still couldn't figure out whether the book added to one's pessimistic view of the world or simply sold itself as a silly, somewhat serious wake-up call.
One reader, assuming the latter, scribbled a message to future readers on the back of the book I currently owned: "We've got to get it together."
I would recommend this to: People who like science fiction bundled with philosophy
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Meet Dr. Felix Hoenikker, a misdiagnosed idiot savant. Meet Hoenikker's equally misunderstood offspring; they helped bring out the end of days! In Vonnegut's alternative account of the dawn of the Nuclear Age, science represents chaotic, dangerously merciless truth while religion nurtures lies to those incapable of pursuing happiness.
Most of the book went over my head, but I played along. I allowed my mind to be tangled by Vonnegut's deeply confusing, yet entrancing breed of satire so that I would eventually reach the end of the book and be done with it.
The pages flew by. I do not know what kind of literary magic the author casts, but his decision to divide the book into many chapters had a therapeutic effect on me.
By the time I finished the book, I still couldn't figure out whether the book added to one's pessimistic view of the world or simply sold itself as a silly, somewhat serious wake-up call.
One reader, assuming the latter, scribbled a message to future readers on the back of the book I currently owned: "We've got to get it together."
I would recommend this to: People who like science fiction bundled with philosophy
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
A Storm of Swords
A Storm of Swords
By: George R. R. Martin
Reviewed by: Han Wang, age 16
Rating: It was amazing!
While tempting, don't think this reviews is hyping the book anymore than it deserves. From the very first pages, the book ensnares the reader and forces him or her to drop whatever he or she was planning to do later and read, be it while standing or sitting.
Fantasy fiction is rarely as exciting or well-written. History buffs will, with glee, identify the author's inspiration for various cities and treacherous events.
Martin spoils his readers with chapters detailing the adventures of the cunning, noble, and delightfully evil characters.
If you've read the first two books in the series, you must read this book. The majority of online fans consider a Storm of Swords the best of the five books written so far.
It is known.
I would recommend this to: Everybody (who has read the first two books)
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
While tempting, don't think this reviews is hyping the book anymore than it deserves. From the very first pages, the book ensnares the reader and forces him or her to drop whatever he or she was planning to do later and read, be it while standing or sitting.
Fantasy fiction is rarely as exciting or well-written. History buffs will, with glee, identify the author's inspiration for various cities and treacherous events.
Martin spoils his readers with chapters detailing the adventures of the cunning, noble, and delightfully evil characters.
If you've read the first two books in the series, you must read this book. The majority of online fans consider a Storm of Swords the best of the five books written so far.
It is known.
I would recommend this to: Everybody (who has read the first two books)
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Portal 2
Portal 2
By: Valve
Reviewed by: Anthony, age 16
Rating: Really liked it!
Portal 2 is an action packed and story driven physics game that involves the player to place two portals in strategic locations in order to complete the objective and advance into the next "chamber" (or levels) . This game is a unique blend of first-person, puzzle solving, and action/adventure genres. The player takes on the role of Chell, a rather quiet protagonist, whose goal is to escape from Aperture Science's testing chambers, which is controlled by a rogue AI (artificial intelligence) robot GlaDos. for most of the story, the player receives help from a robotic friend named Wheatly, a clumsy, yet oddly charismatic, personality core. The player must make quick-witted decisions to transform and alter objects in the environment to complete the task. In the end, the player must defeat the boss, which is reminiscent of the first installment of the game, Portal. this game has received positive reviews from critics from recognized sources. The only con about this game is the concept does become repetitive for a six hour game, but the story and diverse construction of each level makes the overall game play enjoyable. Portal 2 is full of surprises that will keep the player entertained, but I will have to say the "re-playability" level would probably be 2 or 3 more times. However, this game does feature a cooperative game mode that will add another six hours of game play. The quality of the game holds up to its reviews, so I do recommend most people who enjoy casual gaming and puzzle solving to play Portal 2.
I would recommend this to: Gamers, Physics enthusiasts
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Portal 2 is an action packed and story driven physics game that involves the player to place two portals in strategic locations in order to complete the objective and advance into the next "chamber" (or levels) . This game is a unique blend of first-person, puzzle solving, and action/adventure genres. The player takes on the role of Chell, a rather quiet protagonist, whose goal is to escape from Aperture Science's testing chambers, which is controlled by a rogue AI (artificial intelligence) robot GlaDos. for most of the story, the player receives help from a robotic friend named Wheatly, a clumsy, yet oddly charismatic, personality core. The player must make quick-witted decisions to transform and alter objects in the environment to complete the task. In the end, the player must defeat the boss, which is reminiscent of the first installment of the game, Portal. this game has received positive reviews from critics from recognized sources. The only con about this game is the concept does become repetitive for a six hour game, but the story and diverse construction of each level makes the overall game play enjoyable. Portal 2 is full of surprises that will keep the player entertained, but I will have to say the "re-playability" level would probably be 2 or 3 more times. However, this game does feature a cooperative game mode that will add another six hours of game play. The quality of the game holds up to its reviews, so I do recommend most people who enjoy casual gaming and puzzle solving to play Portal 2.
I would recommend this to: Gamers, Physics enthusiasts
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Uprising
Uprising
By: Margaret Peterson Haddix
Reviewed by: Tahrima, age 14
Rating: It was amazing!
Uprising is a tale woven from tendrils of smoky memories from times long past and emotions still strong. This novel is a winding puzzle of life and loss, and the heart-wrenching tale of death, sacrifice, and devotion to one's cause.
The theme, "never give up" is found through Uprising in the three main characters' commitment to a cause and their refusal to stop trying, despite dangerous circumstances. Even when death looms, they fight for their rights and the rights of all workers in the shirtwaist factories of the 1900s.
This book was impossible to put down. The prose sucks the reader in, and the story, with flowing details, keeps the reader hypnotized in the amazing tale of three young women caught in the fire that shocked America, changing it forever.
I would recommend this to: I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves history and wished they could have been there to experience it. If you read this book, I guarantee that you'll never look at history the same way again.
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Uprising is a tale woven from tendrils of smoky memories from times long past and emotions still strong. This novel is a winding puzzle of life and loss, and the heart-wrenching tale of death, sacrifice, and devotion to one's cause.
The theme, "never give up" is found through Uprising in the three main characters' commitment to a cause and their refusal to stop trying, despite dangerous circumstances. Even when death looms, they fight for their rights and the rights of all workers in the shirtwaist factories of the 1900s.
This book was impossible to put down. The prose sucks the reader in, and the story, with flowing details, keeps the reader hypnotized in the amazing tale of three young women caught in the fire that shocked America, changing it forever.
I would recommend this to: I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves history and wished they could have been there to experience it. If you read this book, I guarantee that you'll never look at history the same way again.
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
The Glass Castle
The Glass Castle
By: Jeanette Walls
Reviewed by: Tahrima, age 14
Rating: It was amazing!
If you're looking for a heartwarming book that will make you count your blessings, then Jeanette Walls' memoir is perfect.
Walls was raised by parents whose unconventional lifestyle provided not only all sorts of dilemmas for their family, but adventures too. Her parents, Rex and Rose Mary, were constantly moving from one place to another. Though they were both adored by their children, they often neglected their parental responsibilities. Rose Mary was a free-spirited woman who believed that children should live without rules, while her spouse, Rex, was a struggling alcoholic who could barely support his family.
Throughout the hardships of her childhood, Walls' loving personality was consistent. Even when her father was having one of his alcohol-induced rampages, Walls still had the astonishing ability to see him as a brilliant father whom she loved.
The Glass Castle is a timeless book that leave you with a marvelous sense of appreciation and will stick with you always.
I would recommend this to:
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
If you're looking for a heartwarming book that will make you count your blessings, then Jeanette Walls' memoir is perfect.
Walls was raised by parents whose unconventional lifestyle provided not only all sorts of dilemmas for their family, but adventures too. Her parents, Rex and Rose Mary, were constantly moving from one place to another. Though they were both adored by their children, they often neglected their parental responsibilities. Rose Mary was a free-spirited woman who believed that children should live without rules, while her spouse, Rex, was a struggling alcoholic who could barely support his family.
Throughout the hardships of her childhood, Walls' loving personality was consistent. Even when her father was having one of his alcohol-induced rampages, Walls still had the astonishing ability to see him as a brilliant father whom she loved.
The Glass Castle is a timeless book that leave you with a marvelous sense of appreciation and will stick with you always.
I would recommend this to:
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
Playing for Pizza
Playing for Pizza
By: John Grisham
Reviewed by: Tahrima, age 14
Rating: Really liked it!
This could well be one of John Grisham's best. Playing for Pizza is about Rick Dockery, a man who loves football. Because he plays for so many teams, he never really established himself and always seems to do something wrong. The story focuses on a small town in Italy called Parma, where Rick has resurrected his career. He also meets a lot of girls who do not interest him.
This is a very touching story that many can relate to. This book will make you want to read all of Grisham's novels; I know this from experience. It makes you feel as if you are the one telling the story. I like this book because it allows the reader to see how someone who has hit the lowest point can turn their life around and come out on top.
I would recommend this to:
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
This could well be one of John Grisham's best. Playing for Pizza is about Rick Dockery, a man who loves football. Because he plays for so many teams, he never really established himself and always seems to do something wrong. The story focuses on a small town in Italy called Parma, where Rick has resurrected his career. He also meets a lot of girls who do not interest him.
This is a very touching story that many can relate to. This book will make you want to read all of Grisham's novels; I know this from experience. It makes you feel as if you are the one telling the story. I like this book because it allows the reader to see how someone who has hit the lowest point can turn their life around and come out on top.
I would recommend this to:
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
A Child Called "It"
A Child Called "It"
By: Dave Pelzer
Reviewed by: Tahrima, age 14
Rating: It was amazing!
David was renamed "It" by his evil mother. His childhood begins as the life everyone hopes for. He enjoyed visits to the zoo, lake trips with family, and being cuddled by his mother while listening to a great book. David's life drastically changed when he became a first-grader. His mother and father developed drinking problems. It's very hard to read about all the sadistic "games" his mother dreamed up.
When you read some of what happens, you'll wonder how anyone could even think of doing such things to their own child. Pelzer is a strong man to write about his childhood when he was almost beaten to death. This book really makes you wonder how many other children suffer such abuse.
As his teacher and principal, neighbors and even his father stand by and let the abuse happen, it makes you wonder what you would have done. This book is extremely well written. All of the gruesome details help you to visualize what he went through. There are more books in this series, and you'll want to read them all once you begin.
I would recommend this to:
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
David was renamed "It" by his evil mother. His childhood begins as the life everyone hopes for. He enjoyed visits to the zoo, lake trips with family, and being cuddled by his mother while listening to a great book. David's life drastically changed when he became a first-grader. His mother and father developed drinking problems. It's very hard to read about all the sadistic "games" his mother dreamed up.
When you read some of what happens, you'll wonder how anyone could even think of doing such things to their own child. Pelzer is a strong man to write about his childhood when he was almost beaten to death. This book really makes you wonder how many other children suffer such abuse.
As his teacher and principal, neighbors and even his father stand by and let the abuse happen, it makes you wonder what you would have done. This book is extremely well written. All of the gruesome details help you to visualize what he went through. There are more books in this series, and you'll want to read them all once you begin.
I would recommend this to:
What library do you go to?: Woodward Park
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