Breaking Dawn

Breaking Dawn


By: Stephenie Meyer
Reviewed by: Missy, 16
Rating: Really liked it


Ok, I think this is the best book out of the series. It had alot of twists to it that oyu never expected. Some of the parts you just cant stop laughing, while other parts you want to cry... well, not that much. I think the story did have a terrible ending to it though, it still sounds like it needs alot more describing of the newest of charecters that she put in.

I think it was really descriptive, and keeps you wanting to read.
I would describe more of it, but that will spoil the series if you plan on reading them.


Recommended to: vampire, romance

The Dark Knight

The Dark Knight


Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Reviewed by: Sandor S., 13
Rating: It was amazing!


Christan Bale reprised his role as batman.A new face was also added,the late Heath Ledger,he played as the joker.Batman faces the problems that joker is causing the city.Two-face also appears in the movie.Batman learns that he may be pushing him self to far.


Recommended to: anyone!!!!

Batman Begins

Batman Begins


Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Reviewed by: Sandor S., 13
Rating: It was amazing!


This movie begins with the early life of Bruce wayne.It also shows you of his parents murder,and how he became batman.Batman was played by Christen Bale,Gary Oldman,from harry potter 3,4, and 5,played as Jim Gorden.It gives you an inside look on how Batman began.


Recommended to: anyone!!!!

Fruits Basket Vol. 1

Fruits Basket Vol. 1


By: Takaya Natsuki
Reviewed by: Missy, 16
Rating: Really liked it


Tohru meets the Sohma family, learnnig one of there deepest, and strangest of secrets, that when ever hugged by the opposite sex, they transform inot thier Zodiac Animal. She meets all of them, making friends with them, even though some of them dont want to let her know, and ten helps to break the curse, also trying to save Kyo, the cat, from being imprisioned because of his curse.
There are parts in this manga that are a bit boring, but it is still worth it. And there are lots of funny parts in it, even when its serios. There are unsuspected twist to it, so you never really know whats going to happen, or who is who.


Recommended to: people who enjoy humourous dramas

Prayers for Bobby (Movie)

Prayers for Bobby

Directed by: Russell Mulcahy
Reviewed by: Missy, 16
Rating: It was amazing!


Bobby, a teen who was raised in a Christian family, attending church every weekend with them, soon tells his family one of his biggest secrets that has been eating away at him. That he dreamed of men but not women. His mother tried her best to convert him to being straight, but accomplished nothing. Approving nothing, sill not beliving that he was gay, not accepting.

Bobby moved away to his cousin, then falling in love with David.
His life was going upside down as his mother denied him as a son, and he figured out that his boyfriend was cheating on him, having no one to talk to, his life seeming to be at its peak, looking like it was never goign to get better, he killed himself by jumping off a bridge.

I thought this movie was very good. About a christian mother who learned to late that there was nothing wrong with her son, that god did not heal him becasue nothing needed to be healed. He was still good, trying to do the best he could.
So shee now tries to help other gays, telling them that someone is out there for them, that its okay to be themselves.

I think this story has a very big point to it, and just pulls at your heart. Just thinking about it, my heart feels like its going to burst.


Recommended to: Everyone... especially people who hate gays.

Veronika Decides to Die

Veronika Decides to Die


By: Paulo Coelho
Reviewed by: ha110w33nm4n, 15
Rating: Really liked it


This is a book that I really got into which doesn’t happen to often but its about this girl who tries to kill her self but I guess u can say she failed but she ends up having about a week to live and the whole time she just hears about the way other people think and what they been through and she learns more about life than she thought she knew this book has a lot of meaning its not to long so its some thing you can read in a couple of days


Recommended to: people lolz ^.^

Mark of the Succubus Volumes 1 and 2

Mark of the Succubus Volumes 1 and 2


By: Ashly Raiti and Irene Flores
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


Maeve, a fledgling succubus, is sent to the human world to hone her skills of seduction. She sets her sights on Aiden, a relatively normal high school student, but his girlfriend and a rather sinister plot complicate things.

Have you ever read a manga about a succubus-in-training who falls for a human boy with demons of his own? No? Neither have I. Mark of the Succubus is an OEL (Original English Language) manga, meaning that it is by an American (or even Canadian, Australian, British etc) author or artist. Some manga fans may scoff at English manga, but a lot of it has really good plot and art.

The plot of Mark of the Succubus is really interesting, high school drama, demonic plots, and even some conflict between Aiden and his parents. The characters are all fairly well developed, aside from Sandra, who we don't see a lot. I suspect that we'll learn a bit more about Veril in the next volume.

The art is pretty nice, not as good as a lot of Japanese artists, but better than a lot of American OEL I've seen. The artist doesn't take shortcuts by giving the characters school uniforms or limiting the demon characters to one outfit. Each of the human characters has at least one unique outfit for each chapter, and even the demon characters, as I've mentioned, change outfits. The artist isn't afraid to use backgrounds either. Most of the panels have backgrounds, though scenes taking place in the demon universe usually have black backgrounds, which sort of fits.

There are some mildly fan-servicey parts that could easily have been omitted, but overall, it is really fun and interesting.



Recommended to: Teens 13+ fans of dark or gothic fantasy.

The Mediator: Shadowland

The Mediator: Shadowland


By: Meg Cabot
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


The Mediator chronicles the life of Suze Simon, a girl who can communicate with the dead. Her mother gets remarried and relocates from New York to sunny Carmel, so Suze has to adapt to a new life with a new stepfather and stepbrothers.

This may be weird, but I haven't read a lot of Meg Cabot's work. I've been too busy reading the Harry Potter books and other fantasy series all of these years....So anyway, I decided to read this one. It was very entertaining, so I may even decide to read (key word is maybe) the Princess Diaries.

The writing style is very interesting, and Suze is very well developed. She's not whiny, bland or mary sue-ish. Suze is a great mix of tough chic and compassionate, which comes in handy for a mediator. The other characters are pretty interesting as well, and the first book seems to promise romantic conflict in later volumes. The plot moves along at a pretty quick pace, but not too quick, and Meg Cabot's dry sense of humor is great.

The Mediator is definetely worth reading, it may not enrich your life or anything like that, but it is an entertaining, well-written series with fully realized characters. It does deal with the meaning of life and death occasionally, which adds a serious element to the series.


Recommended to: Teens, fans of supernatural and romance stories. Mostly for girls, but boys can enjoy it too.

Just Listen

Just Listen


By: Sarah Dessen
Reviewed by: Annabelle L., 14
Rating: It was amazing!


Annabel Greene was perfect. Blonde, nice, and a model. But, over the summer, a confrontation with her best friend changes everything. Reserved, she hides into a bubble, keeping quiet with her thoughts. Problems at home with an anemic sister and mother who just wants best but seems to be on the edge of the cliff as well. Then, she meets Owen Armstrong, music enlightner. He loves his iPod, his beloved trinket. Two opposites.

As Owen brings out an Annabel she didn't even she had in herself, Annabel takes courage and will she confront her friend? Can she makes things right?

Just Listen isn't just a romance book. It's about relationships in general. From family to friends to even romantic interests. Annabel discovers what it's like to have the cards at the table all out- her way. Can she deal with it? (No pun intended)

I thought this was an amazing book because I can really connect with the characters (not 'cause the main heroine has the same name just spelled differently :)), and I mean all of them. In a way, it makes you rethink and reanalyze your life in a different view. You think of music- well I think of music- as something different, something really enlightening and you can't really live without. It's everywhere. You have to just listen.


Recommended to: Those who are interested in interpersonal relationships (ranging from family, friends, and lovers), and to people who want to discover a good book that you can somehow compare to.

The Stone Light

The Stone Light


By: Kai Meyer
Reviewed by: Annabelle L., 14
Rating: Really liked it


Separated on their own adventures in the second part of the Dark Reflections triology, Merle and Serafin have a lot of work to do. Merle, with her newfound friend of a stone lion and supposed Flowing Queen within her body, set off to a place where Merle thought she would never be- Hell. When she arrives there, things are distorted from her reality.

Serafin has team up with Lalapeya- a sphinx that is against the Pharaoh's seige inside Venice, for some strange reason- and helps her get ready for the most dangerous mission of his- and other teenage boys like him- life. But, can she really be trusted?

Discovering feelings that pluck their hearts when mentioned, and feeling they are on their own, Merle and Serafin let you join their adventures below the earth, in an overtaken city, and above the air. Maybe into another reality.

The Stone Mirror was interesting to say the least. The switching back and forth between chapters could throw you off a bit, especially if you've never read one like these books before. As the middle book of a trilogy, it sets a nice transition and development between the beginning and end (which I have yet to read until I review it :)), though some parts I could do without. I think Kai Meyer is a definite read for fantasy readers out there.


Recommended to: anyone who would want to boarden their horizons or fantasy readers

My Life Would S**K WIthout You - Single

My Life Would S**K WIthout You

By: Kelly Clarkson
Reviewed by: Tina R., 13
Rating: It was amazing!


This single from Kelly Clarkson is the best song of her yet, in my opinion. Her last cd, My December was also good but this single is the best. You can listen to it and buy it off of itunes.


Recommended to: I would reccomend this song to everyone!

Sister Wife

Sister Wife


By: Shelley Hrdlitschka
Reviewed by: Lizzie, 17
Rating: It was alright...


Sister wife is about 3 narrators, Celeste (mostly about her), Taviana, and Nanette. They are both in a community that practices polygamy. Celeste and Taviana question this "practice", while Nanette can't wait to be assigned to a husband.


This story was shocking. I have heard about such practices, but this book lierally took me by surprise. It's amazing how individuality is punished, and how the girls are manipulated and brainwashed into that situation. The story is well written, and the tone is well balanced throughout the story.

I think the ending was fair, and realistic in the fact that the character's (Celeste and Taviana) strive to go on with life. It's really compelling.


Recommended to: 14 +

Alichino Volume 1

Alichino Volume 1


Directed by: Kouyu Shurei
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


"Beautiful creatures called Alichino grant wishes to those in need-but at a price!"

The first thing about Alichino that caught my interest was the art. It is, without a doubt, gorgeous. The characters, character designs, and background art are all stunningly beautiful and detailed. The artist creates a lush fantasy world with mythology all its own. But there's more to Alichino than that.

The story is original, though it did remind me of xxxHolic a bit. Most of the characters are very interesting, so far, but they may need some more development in future volumes. Tsugiri is a bit bland, your typical bishonen hero with amnesia. I suppose that's better than an overly brave and loud hero, but still.

Alichino has some translation/grammar errors and a couple of plot holes. We never learn the name of the young girl who seeks an Alichino. Furthermore, she appears in the confrontation between Tsugiri and the snake Alichino, but seems to suddenly disappear in the middle of the fight. Also, dialogue bubbles don't always indicate exactly who is speaking, so you have to make an educated guess.

Alichino is worth reading simply for the art itself, though the story is also fascinating.


Recommended to: Manga fans (girls will squeal over the bishonen characters) 13+

Black Rabbit Summer

Black Rabbit Summer


By: Kevin Brooks
Reviewed by: Cindy, 14
Rating: It was alright...


Pete never expected a call from Nicole would change his life. He never even expected the call. But when Nicole asks for one last get together with the old gang, Pete can't refuse. Big mistake. The night goes horribly wrong ending with two people missing. One of them is his friend, Raymond, the only one who didn't drift away. The other, an untalented, popular star. Now, Pete must find them both to prove Raymond's innocence.

Dark and involving, the plot was a joy to read. The minute dashes of the supernatural just added to the already nebulous tone. For instance, Raymond's black rabbit, the namesake of the novel, was kind of creepy but it set Raymond as a unique character and offered great foreshadowing. It is a mystery so the story isn't always clear but the aspects that made it a mystery were all there. For example, multiple suspects who all seemed to have a motive.

One thing I really enjoyed about Black Rabbit Summer was its character relationships. Pete truly cares for Raymond and it showed. The emotions were constantly there and it made me feel involved. A quote that exemplified this was "We were friends. Then and now."

The author who wrote this book also wrote Road of the Dead, another book I reviewed. His writing style was consistent and unique. Its very blunt but at the same time deep.

From what I've written, it seems like I should be giving this novel a higher rating and the truth is, I would. The reason why I'm not going to is because of the ending. To me, it was full of plot holes and inconclusive. It felt rushed and lacked the emotion that the rest of the story had. All things considered, Black Rabbit Summer was complex and enjoyable but if you felt a little disappointed at the end, you're not alone.


Recommended to: 14+, Mature Scenes

Twilight

Twilight


By: Stephenie Meyer
Reviewed by: Ruth, 13
Rating: It was alright...


Twilight is basically about a girl who falls in love with a vampire, and how they go through certian obstacles to be together.

Twilight is a vampire novel, but let's just say, if you're a Christian, it's probably not the best book to read. Twilight is a romance book, that can really capture your attention after the first chapter. It really makes you want to read more and more. It's about this girl named Bella, who's in love with a vampire named Edward. It gets pretty intense with their relationship. Edward can read people's minds, he can read everyone's but Bella's. When Edward turns to protect Bella when another vampire wants to eat her, things can get a little bit rocky. Bella's and Edward's relationship with each other grows stronger and may eventually turn into love.


Recommended to: anyone

Sold Out

Sold Out


Directed by: Melody Carlson
Reviewed by: Ruth, 13
Rating: It was amazing!


Sold Out is the second book of Chloe Miller for the Diary of a Teenage Girl. It's a Christian books, and it talks about the start of the rock band for Chloe. There's two things that go on at once throughout the book. The first problem was that, Laura's (one of the members of the band and a friend of Chloe's) pastor from her church is strict and really emphasizes it on the rest of the church he preaches to. Laura believed him, and started to avoid Chloe and Allie, another member of the band and is also a friend. Chloe and Allie must find a way to get back to Laura before the band can fall apart. The second thing that goes on isn't as major as the first. It's just about how they go out shopping with a not so close friend (Marissa). Marissa likes to shoplifts, and Chloe and Allie tells her it's not good, but they continue to reach out to her. Trying not to ruin it for you, but let's just say, that God's love shines through Chloe, Allie, and Laura, as their friendships grow and when they reach out to Marissa. It's one great way to show people that God's love is there, and that it can shine through you in simple ways.


Recommended to: Christian teens or anyone that is a girl

Road Trip

Road Trip


Directed by: Melody Carlson
Reviewed by: Ruth, 13
Rating: It was amazing!


Road Trip is about a girl named Chloe who is in a Christian rock band called Redemption. They finally got their band going, and they are now opening up for Iron Cross, a guys' Christian rock band. Redemption is three girls who have been friends for awhile and totally bring their praises for the Lord. In Road Trip, it talks about how one of Chloe's friend, and business partner, gets caught up in doing drugs. Chloe and her other friend/business partner (Allie) pulls Luara out of the drug situation, along with the help of Iron Cross. This book, really talks about how friendship and a strong relationship with God can really pull you through any of the troubles that you stumble upon. Road Trip is the third book in the series of ... Diary of a Teenage Girl Chloe. It is written in diary format, and at the end of most of the entries are poems written by Chloe Miller. The poems are so spiritual and powerful, that it really reminds you that God is there with you and his love is everlasting.


Recommended to: teens who are girls

I Promise

I Promise


Directed by: Robin Jones Gunn
Reviewed by: Ruth, 13
Rating: It was amazing!


It's a great Christian book for girls, and it really captures your attention, that God already planned the right man/guy for you, and that we should wait. It's about this girl named Christy, who is in love with this guy named Todd. I Promise is the last book of the Christy Miller series. They have been in love for a long time, and have dated through all of their college years. When Todd finally proposed to Christy, she said yes, they learn more about each other, and the differences they have. It also talks about how they learn to get along with each other, and fit it into each other schedules. In the end, all of their hard work of learning more about each other finally paid off. The years of waiting for each other patiently also paid off too. It's a really spiritual book, but I would recommend to read it after you read the books about Christy Miller before this.


Recommended to: Christian teens or anyone who understands the importance of true love waits.

Gakuen Alice Volume 1

Gakuen Alice Volume 1


Directed by: Tachibana Higuchi
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


Gakuen Alice is about Mikan, a girl who follows her friend Hotaru to Alice Academy. Alice Academy is a school for children with strange gifts. These children and the abilities they possess are called Alices. Mikan finds out that she is an Alice as well.

Gakuen Alice is, without a doubt, pretty original. Its pretty funny too. The art and character designs are cute though backgrounds are more functional than attractive. Really the only problems I have are 1. There is too much dialogue crammed into the panels. Almost every panel is much too crowded, which detracts from the art and the story. 2. The main characters are around 10 years old, so why is it rated teen? And by the way, it is rated teen for good reason. The children in Gakuen Alice know of things they probably shouldn't know of, which also detracted from the manga, for me. Still it is a funny and entertaining shojo.


Recommended to: Manga fans 13+ Girls and boys can enjoy this one.

Hotel for Dogs

Hotel for Dogs


Directed by: Thor Freudenthal
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


Wow. I think this is the first non-anime movie review I've done...that aside, Hotel for Dogs is about a pair of orphaned siblings whose parents died three years ago. They kept their old dog, Friday, unbeknownst to their newest foster parents, Carl and Lois. They discover a pair of strays in an abandoned hotel, and decide to start rescuing strays.

Hotel for Dogs was not my first choice when I went to the movies with my family. I wanted to see the Twilight movie, just to see how bad they screwed it up, but alas, my dad has no interest in sparkling vampires. Anyhoo, Hotel for Dogs pleasantly surprised me. It was a cute, family friendly film without being overkill-cute. Some people might consider the ending overly fluffy, but it fits. You have to remember, this is a family movie and a family movie has to be simple enough for kids to follow with enough wit to keep the adults happy. The movie was predictable, something only adults and teens will pick up on. I knew, from the commercials for the movie, that Dave and Andi were going to become girlfriend-boyfriend. And it didn't take me long to figure out that Bernie was going to adopt Andi and Bruce. Some parts of the script were just a bit unnatural, a bit corny.

Despite the predictablity and the sickeningly sweet ending, it was a funny, cute movie. I wish I could find a home for every stray. There weren't too many doggie poo jokes, (thank goodness) even my dad was laughing, and that's a good sign (he probably would have laughed at the sparkly vampires, come to think of it).

The camera angles were very interesting in the scenes where Friday was roaming the city. It made you feel as if you were seeing through a dog's eyes. All the humans looked so big.

Overall, adults and kids alike will enjoy this movie. Kids will like it for the cute dogs, adults will like it because it is entertaining, and pretty funny.


Recommended to: Anyone looking for a family-friendly movie. It is rated PG, for some crude humor. Some of the creepier scenes in the old hotel might scare small children.

Vampirates: Demons of the Ocean

Vampirates: Demons of the Ocean


By: Justin Somper
Reviewed by: Lizzie, 17
Rating: Really liked it


The story is about 2 orphan twins, Grace and Connor Tempest. They are both seprated from a violent storm. Grace is rescued by a mysterious Vampirate ship, and Connor by a pirate ship. Both are drawn into the world of vampirates, hidden deep beneath secerts.

The narration is told from two views; Connor and Grace. The character description, and fight scenes are amazing! They are told in great detail. It has action and adventure, hints of romance, mystery, and little horror (vampires sucking blood). I believe anyone who loves pirates and vampires would find this a great story to read.

I love the fact that Grace and Connor are very close. The thing about this book, is that the plot is bearly begining; it's like getting us prepared for something bigger. The reader can sense it. For example, we don't really know what is the plot yet, and what exactly is hidden in each character. We can understand and find this in the conituning series of Vampirates.

Offical website of the books:

http://www.vampirates.co.uk/


Recommended to: 11 and up

Once Upon a Marigold

Once Upon a Marigold


By: Rachel Maude
Reviewed by: Lizzie, 17
Rating: Really liked it


Christian (who lives with a troll name Ed) is always curious about the stuff around him, especially once he starts spying on Princess Marigold.

The tagline of the book is this: Part Comedy. Part love story. Part everything -but the kitchen sink.

That fits the whole story in general. This by far is the most funniest, and enjoyable book ever. Each character has a personality that is unique in the story. When I read it, I couldn't stop laughing, and I couldn't put it down! What I love about it most, is that it didn't have NO cussing, and no sexual preferences. That's a problem when I read teen books, it usually goes overboard.

What I like about the characters in the story, is that they are humorously protrayed well. However, at the same time, they still maintain there individuality. Usually you don't find this in traditional fairy tales. The narration moves smoothly, and maintins it's tone. As you are reading, you can imagine the character's face expressions....like if you were seeing it as a movie. That's how good it is. The plot has many twist and turns, that's what makes the story what it IS.

Overall, for being a fairy tale book, it has originality. I suggest you read it! =)


Recommended to: Anyone

Poseur

Poseur


By: Rachel Maude
Reviewed by: Tina R., 13
Rating: Really liked it


When four high school girls who having nothing in common are forced to create a designer label for their private school, they are devastated. At Winston Prep, where fasion means war, Charlotte Beverwil, Mellisa Moon, Petra Greene, and Janie Farrish will do anything to get their way. Janie thinks Mellisa and Charlotte are rich and spoiled. And they don't like Janie. Petra...couldn't care less. She is just strongly against animal-cruelty. So with all these differences, what will happen?


Recommended to: 12-14

Angels in Pink

Angels in Pink


By: Lurlene McDaniel
Reviewed by: Tina R., 13
Rating: It was amazing!


There are three books in this series. Kathleen's Story, Rania's Story, and Holly's Story. The three best friends work together at the hospital in the Pink Angels Program. Each book is about each friend's troubles. Troubles at school, home, bofriends. Holly deals with too strict parents, Raina with her mother and bofriend, and Kathleen with her diseased mother. and in each book, they each face something that will change their lives forever. These books are some of the best I've read in a while and I couldnt put the books down!


Recommended to: Teens

Twilight

Twilight


By: Stephenie Meyer
Reviewed by: Lizzie, 17
Rating: Hated it!


Twilight is basically about a girl who falls in love with a vampire, and how they go through certian obstacles to be together.

I dislike Twilight. The reason for my negative opinion of the Twilight book is mainly the underdeveloped characters. They're just too perfect and I can't relate to them. Edward of course is flawless so he doesn't need to develop at all. This irritates me because I enjoy reading about a character who grows and learns. Edward doesn't develop as a character. To me, he is just a blatant Gary-Stu. Bella is the same way. She is meant to have "flaws" when those flaws (clumsiness, modesty) can't be considered character flaws at all really. And, like Edward, she doesn't develop. And, she is just so annoying. She is a whinny damsel in distress who can't live without a man.

In New Moon I was hoping to see a stronger Bella but I was greatly disappointed. One other thing that I dislike about the series is the lack of any moral or theme. After reading Eclipse I assumed that the books were about sacrificing for your loved ones, but Breaking Dawn proved me wrong; Bella sacrifices....nothing. Nothing at all. She gets everything, literally everything that she wants. She turns into a beautiful vampire, she maintains a relationship with Jacob and her family, she has no weaknesses (weaknesses that someone in her situation would normally have) and she gets a great superpower, and she even gets the perfect child to add to the giant heap of perfect characters.


Recommended to: No one

Gothic! Ten Original Dark Tales

Gothic! Ten Original Dark Tales


By: By Multiple Authors, Edited by Deborah Noyes
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


Gothic! is a collection of ten short stories contributed by: Joan Aiken, M.T. Anderson, Neil Gaiman, Caitlin R. Kiernan, Gregory Maguire, Garth Nix, Celia Rees, Janni Lee Simner, Vivian Vande Velde and Barry Yourgrau. If you want to know the definition of Gothic fiction, look it up yourself, it would take me too long to explain.

In any anthology, you will find yourself liking some stories more than others. Gothic! is no exception, however the stories are all very strong. My personal favorites were "Writing on the Wall", "Stone Tower", "Endings", and "The Dead and the Moonstruck." Neil Gaiman's "Forbidden Brides of the Faceless Slaves in the Nameless House of the Night of Dread Desire" (whew, long title) was amusing, but a little difficult to understand.

Reading short story collections is a great way to find stories by your favorite authors and to discover new authors.


Recommended to: Fans of Gothic fiction, dark fantasy, Gothic horror etc. 13+

Twilight Series

Twilight Series


By: Stephenie Meyer
Reviewed by: Kait, 14
Rating: Hated it!


Goodness, where do I start? Firstly, I AM expecting major comments by twi-hards telling me I'm wrong, there's something wrong with me, blah, blah, blah. Whatever. I'm used to it. Heck, I LIVE with a twi-hard. So comment away, and I'll go cry myself a river, build a bridge, and get over it (Regardless of how cliche, I lOVE that saying.).

So while I'm trying to find a way to organize this, I think chronologically is best. But I'll probably forget a bunch of stuff and add it at the end...whatever.

1. Twilight: admittedly, I was a die-hard twi-hard for about a year. Sigh, I'm not proud of it. And I believe it's because of the original appeal of the first novel. It's one of those books that, first time around, gives you butterflies in your stomach as you wonder who on Earth could love someone as much as Edward does. But, take an objective look at it and it's just YUCK.

Firstly, I believe that Stephenie Meyer only knows a handful of adjectives, forcing her to reuse her character descriptions about once every paragraph. Case in point (or rather, caseS): Edward - godlike, perfect, sparkling, topaz eyes; Alice - inky black hair, pixie, dancer; Bella - heart-shaped face, super white face, chocolate brown eyes; Jacob - copper skin, black hair. Honestly, Steph, we're SICK of it!

Secondly (and yes, this is still only the first book), I don't know how much one person can take of hearing Bella kick herself about how imperfect she is and how perfect Edward is and how she doesn't deserve him! I can't stand it! GAH GET A SPINE WOMAN!!!

Thirdly, what the heck is up with having 500 pages with 4 inch margins, super big print, double spaced, and tons of little paragraphs? Honestly, it wouldn't kill her to give up and make the book a scoche smaller. Just saying.

Fourthly, who on Earth falls in love after about 3 conversations with a guy? He's a stalker! He WATCHES HER SLEEP! It's plain CREEPY!

Fifthly, I'm sorry, but it just makes the rest of the female, adolescent world feel like crap when we have a girl beating herself up emotionally with a half dozen guys all in love with her! It sucks.

Sixthly, I dislike perfect people. They don't exist. And neither do perfect vampires. GO AWAY EDWARD!

Seventhly (if that is a real "-ly" word), it's just poorly written. Not very creative either. But I digress. Again.

2. New Moon - I'm going to make this one short and sweet, like the book should have been. I am SICK to DEATH of hearing Bella whine about Edward! Girl, we get it! You miss him! Now shut up and pick one of the other boys or join a convent!

3. Eclipse - man this book took forever. It was like 800 pages of Bella saying "I love Edward! I love Jacob! I love Edward! I love Jacob! I love Edward! I love Jacob! I love Edward! I love Jacob! I love Edward! I love Jacob! I love Edward! I love Jacob! I love Edward! I love Jacob! I love Edward! I love Jacob! I want to be a vampire with my boyfriend!" It's boring.

4. Breaking Dawn - I'm convinced Meyer gave in and took a dartboard, wrote down every idea she had for the novel on it, and threw about 60 darts at it, and whatever she landed on she put in the novel at one point or another. Blech. Besides, who has all this build-up for a huge vampire battle, then has it resolved quietly with hardly any bloodshed! Give me the gore! Give me the guts! Give me SOMETHING! Plus the name Renesmee was plain STUPID.

Overall, there is total overkill about the books. At least at my school, every girl is convinced she is marrying Edward Cullen and that Twilight is the best piece of literature she or any other person could ever pick up. Come on. Please.

Haha, this wins as my official longest review. I'm loving it! The review, NOT the book. Payce kidz :]


Recommended to: Nobody. Please END THIS!!!!

19 Minutes

19 Minutes


By: Jodi Picoult
Reviewed by: Kait, 14
Rating: Really liked it


Jodi Picoult (again) wrote an twin novel to all of her previous works. *It's a boy!* Yet, (again) she managed to make the novel its own, unique individual (perhaps this one is a fraternal twin?) without sacrificing her style as a writer, which I completely respect - who does that nowadays? It seems as though every author out there either a. makes every novel they have seem like a Xerox copy of their other, successful novels, especially in a series (thank you, Stephenie Meyer) or b. completely sells out and loses their voice in a desperate attempt to give the publishers what they want so they don't get sent back into the unknown, suburban oblivion filled with two kids, a low-paying job, and an unattentive spouse (Sorry J.K., you take the hit on this one after *7 BOOKS*. Overkill much? Not to say I don't love your work...)

But I digress.

Ignoring my earlier rant, I should probably get on to describing "19 Minutes" (For the record, "19" is NOT spelled out on the cover, so to those of you attempting to get on me for poor conventions in my writing - HA. HA.). Again, I will fruitlessly attempt to divulge little more than can be inferred by the teaser on the back cover. But, when I fail, don't hate me, please!

Picoult, again, could not keep away from the court case scenario (Who can blame her? She does it so well!) but this, for me, was an entirely new scene. Picoult spins a tale of a school shooting 19 minutes long (She is rather unoriginal in her titles - most are directly linked to her text. Anyways...) where the shooter is being accused of (if my memory does not fail me now!) 13 counts of Murder One.

Picoult, as per her usual style, shows you the direct time/scene of the shooting in little detail, then goes back to show the student's pasts, then goes to after the shooting, then goes back, and forth, and back, and forth, and back, and forth. While your head DOES admittedly do a couple 360's, I think it provides an interesting look at the scene. It will MAKE (total command here!) you try to figure out what exactly happened. It's literally a compulsion. And then the end shocks you until your mother/roommate/significant other comes by with a AED unit resuscitates you.

The novel, admittedly, IS a tear-jerker. But what else would you expect when reading about a school shooting? It's classic Jodi Picoult in the best of ways. :]


Recommended to: Teenagers and young adults. Anyone looking for a good cry.

The Water Mirror

The Water Mirror


By: Kai Meyer
Reviewed by: Annabelle L., 14
Rating: It was amazing!


In a world of mystery and adventure, Venice, Italy, is not what it is. Being under a siege from the Egyptians for thirty years doesn't show on many Venetians, but that's because the Flowing Queen has always protected them from danger.

Merle- an orphaned girl- was ordinary, except her magic water mirror. Nothing spills out, but you could go in, whatever fits in the small object. Becoming apprenticed to Arcimboldo, she discovers for herself the Flowing Queen, the infamous mermaids, and even encounters the Ancient Traitor himself.

Serafin and Merle meet and uncover a plot to overthrow the Flowing Queen to let Egypt take over Venice. When protecting Merle, he gets captured and must follow his own path to help save Venice.
Imagery of creatures beyond our imagination, a goddess that may not even exist, a betrayal of the people, and an ancient race that has only one survivor.

This book is truly amazing, you can picture yourselves right there, beside them in their adventures. You can experience the flying of a stone lion, the mystery of the watery yet not water mirror (an heirloom of Merle's), and see the horrors of seeing someone from down below. It's detailed and greatly fantastical that you have to love this world so parallel to ours, yet so original.


Recommended to: anyone who would want to boarden their horizons or fantasy readers

Plain Truth

Plain Truth


By: Jodi Picoult
Reviewed by: Kait, 14
Rating: Really liked it


Jodi Picoult's fairly old novel, "Plain Truth", is pretty much an identical twin to all of her previous work. Notwithstanding, the book managed to still be FAH-BYOU-LUSS.

Jodie Picoult's work is generally "consistent". Most of her novels follow the same flow/pattern and are centered around a major crime committed (usually murder, rape, infanticide, etc.) and the pursuant court case that follows. Families fall apart, people fall in and out of love, life is never the same, blah blah blah.

But, somehow, Picoult manages to keep the reader on the edge of his/her seat, chair, couch, sofa, bed, or whatever he/she happens to be resting their butt on at the time of reading. I, for one, am an avid fan and reader of her novels and have read a good number of her novels. Regardless of the fact that I know her flow and distinctive writing style, and I generally have SOME idea of what might happen, she still manages to shock me into cardiac arrest repeatedly. That's what I consider GREAT writing.

Most of the book's DISTINCTIVE plotline can be distinguished from the teaser on the back of the book. Katie Fischer (by the way, totally freaked me out that my nickname is Katie and this is about an infanticide. Oops! guess I just killed the suspense....sorry!) an Amish teenager in East Paradise, Pennsylvania, is accused of killing her newborn son when he is found dead in her family's barn. Admittedly, the original plotline is rather iffy, but the juicy stuff comes to follow. Katie (man that name wigs me out)has absolutely no memory of the pregnancy nor the birth of her son, therefore making a conviction all the more hard.

So I'm pretty sure I can't give away any of the TRULY Juicy-Coutoure juicy stuff (sorry, couldn't help the teen female reference. juicy juice would have been a much more acceptable analogy in MY opinion, but it didn't look esthetically pleasing, so I changed it. Also, apologies if I misspelled coutoure. Pretty sure it's right but sitll) but basically it's like reading a mature, adult, mildly realistic TABLOID. And I (regretably) do enjoy People Magazine at times, so the book is a perfect fit.

The book does hold for dear life to SOME realistic/mature merit. Not much, but it DOES teach about tolerance for other lifestyles, religions, etc. It's also a fabulous read over all. Read it! :]


Recommended to: Chicks age 15-old

Interview with the Vampire

Interview with the Vampire


By: Anne Rice
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


Interview with the Vampire is considered a classic of the vampire genre. It doesn't take the reader very long to see why. Like any great classic, Interview with the Vampire is very deep and sophisticated, though it won't suit everyone's tastes. If you are looking for a sweet vampire romance or a thrilling page-turner, look elsewhere. However, if you want a well-written, emotional novel that explores what it means to be a vampire, you've found your book.

As I've said, this book is not for everyone. The pace is somewhat slow, which will discourage some readers. The characters and the relationships between them are so complex that somtimes I had to put the book down so that I could try to fathom them. The tone and plot were very depressing, no comedy to be found at all, which isn't necessarily a bad thing.

Anne Rice's writing style is very detailed. Characters are described in a way that helps you envision them vividly. Settings are described with adequate attention.

Best of all, there are no sparkling vampires!


Recommended to: 15+ For violence, mature content, and the fact that anyone under 15 won't appreciate it.

The Harry Potter Prequel

The Harry Potter Prequel in "What's Your Story?"

By: J.K. Rowling
Reviewed by: Sandor S., 13
Rating: It was amazing!


It was very amazing for only 800 words(or 2 pages.)It is about Harry's dad 4 years before harry was born.It also includes sirius black,and plocice officers.It ends....well i'll let you find out. HERE IS A LINK.


Recommended to: any harry potter fan!!!

Vibes

Vibes


By: Amy Kathleen Ryan
Reviewed by: Tina R., 13
Rating: It was amazing!


This book is about a teen who usually feels left out from the popular crowd at her school. She beleived that she could read minds, but then begins to doubt herself. When Gusty Peterson starts talking to her, her life starts to make more sense and change. When she tells her mother about what she's been hiding, she finds out that her mother has been hiding something from her too. This book was so good I couldn't put it down! Vibes is a very honest book and its one of the best books that I've read in a long time.


Recommended to: Teens

Cat Soup

Cat Soup


Directed by: Tatsuo Sato
Reviewed by: ha110w33nm4n, 15
Rating: Really liked it


this movie is really weird and not for the week minded there is a lot of meaning behind it and its really just like one of though movies that you watch and go ok im probably not ever going to watch that again and guess what about the next day your going man I want to watch that again it’s a really good movie and some thing not for the younger ones and u kind of have to watch it your self to get a good idea


Recommended to: to any one really

Soul Eater

Soul Eater


By: Atsushi Okubo
Reviewed by: ha110w33nm4n, 15
Rating: It was amazing!


ok this is one of Though mangas that im kind of upsest about but there’s the thing I don’t read it I watch it you can read it in English or you can watch it only in subbed or Japanese its amazing ok there’s humans then there’s weapons and witches this is a comedy adventure and action but later on in the series its more action and more deep oh ya a lot of this show is about the soul and insanity there are about seven or more main characters oh ya weapons have human forms most witches are based around animals and there’s not much I can say with out spoiling it so sorry your just going to have to read or watch it


Recommended to: to alot of ppl

Breaking Dawn

Breaking Dawn


By: Stephenie Meyer
Reviewed by: twilightfan101, 13
Rating: It was amazing!


this book is awesome for any one that really liked the rest of her series and wants to know what happens after the 3rd book and what happens at the end of the story.


Recommended to: mostly teenage girls like me who like romance.

Dream Saga

Dream Saga


By: Megumi Tachikawa
Reviewed by: Janette, 15
Rating: Really liked it


In your dreams, did you ever wish you were another person? Another self? Another life? In the manga, Dream Saga, that's exactly what happens. It is a fantasy adventure tale about a young girl called Yuuki Wakasa, who one day acquires a magical red stone. The stone allows her to travel to the dream world, when she sleeps, and can only return to the real world, when she goes to sleep in the dream. Yuuki discovers that she must save the sun from being trapped and destroyed in the dream world, or the light will be lost from both worlds forever.

This personally was very cute read, a big hook for young girls. It has the typical always happy, girly, cute heroine for the story. It's a good sidetracker story but it didn't have the "hook" effect for me. I didn't even read the last volume. But it's still a good series. So if you're looking for a good series to cuddle up in your bed and read, well here you go!


Recommended to: Young girls who are 10-14

Calling You

Calling You


By: Otsu-Ichi
Reviewed by: Janette, 15
Rating: It was amazing!


Calling You is a novel that consists of three seperate stories. The title story is about a young girl who longs for a cellphone like all her classmates. After imagining her cellphone for so long, the cellphone in her mind becomes real and she is able to communicate to other people using their imaginary cellphones. This story is actually kind of depressing but it is surely a good read. It is also accompanied by the occasional picture so you can get a better viewpoint about what the author is trying to convey. This story is almost heart-breaking and has you crying for more. The other stories within this book are Kiz/Kids & Flower Song.


Recommended to: To those who are looking for a quick read that is meaningful and deep

Twilight Series Books 1-3

Twilight Series Books 1-3


By: Stephenie Meyer
Reviewed by: Missy, 16
Rating: It was alright...


omfg, eclipse is so freakin boring and long..... its like as if the authur was forced to right it, with no enthusiasm, theres an ocasion good part, but thats wha,t only a paragraph long? its a freakin 600 page book... and theres 2 others afterwards ((well, techincally 1, bvut i hear shes publishing book 5 soon...)).....im dieing of bordom..

you may be asking, why am i reading it then if its so boring... well, one the first book was freakin awesome and i loved it, two. im hoping that it will get better sometime... 3. im curios on how things turn out, 4. well, it really irritates me to start somtehing and not finish it, lol. so i must finish this series and see how it turns out. lol the first book was good because it tells of all the troubles of edward getting bella, of making her know he loves her, and protecting her, escaping the temptation of not killing her..

in the second book it just went all down hill with the bringing in of jacob, the werewolf, and taking out edward for the whole book... but i must say, the second book is more exciting than this third one.. one because bella didnt have edward, so it goes through all her troubles with out himm and then kinda falling for jacob and doing life threatening things things jus tot hear edwards voice in her head...
now in the third book, edward is there, jacob is there, its just boring with barly any action waht so ever... only warnings, like, oh if you cross the border imma kick your butt... please, CROSS THE FREAKIN BORDER!!!! and now edward is being all nice to jacob... following his orders and bellas...... *cries* she just took out the excitement of fights... she is making it to... how do i say.. i cant use boring because i used that to much already... un enventful?

pretty much all this story seems to be about is bella getting into edwards pants, even though its "dangerous" bela turning into a vampire, and bella making friends with jacobs again because jacob hates vampires since hes a werewolf....*hits head on keyboard over and over again* i dont see how chicks like this series!! I mean, the first book i totally understand.. but now.. edward is WAY to overprotective, like when he goes out to "feed" he pays his sister with a porche to kidnap bella adn make sure she doesnt go see jacob the werewolf while hes gone.. and bella is just an butt..... and jacob is way to obsesive about her........like, i would of never thought of this with the first and second book.. but the third book releases it all.. i mean, i dont even know the charecters anymore..... I think imma need book therapy after this series... i mean, this is just mind killing, like dude, weres the imagination?

Recommended to: book one: all girls book 2: some girls book 3: no one...

From Far Away Volume 1

From Far Away Volume 1


By: Kyoko Hikawa
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Didn't like it


"On her way home from school, one day, Noriko is unexpectedly plunged into a strange and extraordinary famtasy world. her troubles compound exponentially when she is rescued and befriended by a handsome young man by the name of Izark. He may be brave and courageous, but inside Izark lurks the darkest evil imaginable. And according to an ancient prophecy, Noriko possesses the power to unleash that evil...."

Starting to sound familiar? Normal schoolgirl, fantasy world, handsome man who saves her, ancient prophecy. It sounds like Fushigi Yugi, for those of you who don't know. And in case you don't know, I don't like Fushigi Yugi all too much. After reading the summary,I don't know why I picked this one up, I was being optimistic I suppose.
The art of From Far Away is a cross between that of Osamu Tezuka and that of Naoko Takeuchi. At best, Noriko and Izark look OK, but all secondary characters look really strange. I realize that this is from the early 90s, but the quality of the art is pretty bad by any standard. Tezuka-sama and Takeuchi-sama made it work, but Kyoko Hikawa doesn't. Character designs are bland, or just plain goofy looking. On a positive note, the art isn't totally devoid of backgrounds.

My major problem was the plot was its lack of originality. The plot is dull and slow throughout. At the end of this volume, the author employs the cheapest trick in a writer's arsenal, the cliff-hanger. It leaves the reader wanting to know what exactly is wrong with Izark, but not enough to go buy the second volume. My guess is that he has some demon/spirit sealed inside of him. Noriko's attempts to learn the language of the fantasy-land is pretty funny, but nothing that had me laughing for long. Another prediction, Noriko and Izark will fall in love. I almost want to pick up the next volumes to see if I'm right.


Recommended to: Those of you who aren't tired of the girl gets sucked into a fantasy world story. Those of you who are out of manga to read.

Eclipse

Eclipse


Directed by: Stephenie Meyer
Reviewed by: twilightfan101, 13
Rating: It was amazing!


this book was really awesome and i really enjoyed reading it it was 1 of the 3 that i really liked in the twilight series!!!!


Recommended to: ny body that likes to read romance novels or liked the 1st book.

Swallowing Stones

Swallowing Stones


Directed by: Joyce Mcdonald
Reviewed by: Ashley J., 17
Rating: Hated it!


This story is about two different lives that intertwine because of one incident. Michael is at a party on the fourth of July. He decides to shoot his rifle in the air not thinking it would hurt anyone, but it does. Michael thought no one would know where it came from because there were a lot of other noises going on that day. The bullet ended up going four blocks over and hit a man in the head while he was fixing his roof top. His name was Charlie Ward and he had a wife and daughter. The wife’s was Meredith Ward and the daughter’s name was Jenna Ward. Michael finally realizes that he fired the shot that killed a man while he’s in the car listening to the radio. The police are suspecting him. So he decides to bury the rifle in his back yard. When the police come looking for anyone with information about Charlie Ward’s death, Michael panics. The police assume that it was Michael that shot the gun. His father tells the cops that Michael has a gun. When they ask for it Michael makes up a story and tells the cops that his friend stole it from his car, thus making his friend an accessory. Soon the police really begin to think that it was Michael who fired the shot and they search the property using metal detectors to try and find the gun, but only come up with a shell casing in the forest nearby. Meanwhile, Jenna is hunting for her father’s killer. She has pictured him as a faceless killer, a cold hearted man, but she finally hears from the town gossip that the shot came from the Mackenzie house during a fourth of July party.


Recommended to: no one

Mushi-Shi DVD Volume 1

Mushi-Shi DVD Volume 1


Directed by: Hiroshi Nagahama
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


In Mushi-shi, Ginko is a mushi-shi, or mushi master. The mushi are beings that are not quite animal or plant but influence the human world with varied results. The plot, so far, is episodic, which may annoy some people, though I didn't mind at all. Each episode tells a different story, and therefore the only character featured in every episode is Ginko, who is an interesting character. Ginko is different from other male manga heroes. He is not loud, brave, or brash. Instead he is quiet, thoughtful, and compassionate. The fifth episode referred to events from previous episodes, suggesting that continuity may eventually be established.

The series left me with a melancholy feeling. Ginko was sometimes successful in healing people with mushi-related problems, but sometimes he was not. The series doesn't give the viewer much time to become acquainted or attached to the secondary characters, but the sense of loss is still there.

The character designs of Mushi-shi are reminiscent of Miyazaki, simple and realistic in comparison to most other anime. The backgrounds are gorgeous, lush, and breath-takingly detailed. The dub and sub are equal for the most part. Some of the secondary characters' voices on the English track are just a little irritating. The background music was mostly soft and relaxed, except for at tense or exciting moments. The guitar and vocal opening and the piano ending blend in with the rest of the music in the series, so that the viewer barely notices the transition. The music makes a great addition to the series, but nothing I'd add to my playlist.


Recommended to: Anyone who wants an intelligent, original, supernatural anime, I agree with TV-14 rating for some gore.

Quidditch Through the Ages

Quidditch Through the Ages by Kennilworthy Whisp


By: J.K. Rowling
Reviewed by: Sandor S., 13
Rating: It was amazing!


Quidditch through the ages is a excelent edition to any harry potter fan's collection.This book is about the sport of Quidditch in the world of harry potter.It tells you how to play,the rules,and it's history.J.K. Rowling uses a fictitious author,Kennilworthy Whisp as the writer of this book.Money earned toward the book went to charity.


Recommended to: 8-up

Star Wars: Dark Lord: The Rise of Dark Vader

Star Wars: Dark Lord: The Rise of Dark Vader


By: James Luceno
Reviewed by: Sandor S., 13
Rating: It was amazing!


This book tells about how and what darth vader did after he got the dark suit.It stars of after the clone wars ended,and evil has won.Darth vader searches for the remaning jedi,who were not killed.


Recommended to: 11-up

Outcast

Outcast


By: Michelle Paver
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series is one of the few that gets an amazing rating from me. The series take place in prehistorical times, and Michelle Paver weaves a fascinating tale of people, animals, spirits and demons. The books are, in order, Wolf Brother, Spirit Walker and Soul Eater. In Outcast, the fourth installment, Torak is banished from the clans after it is discovered that he has the mark of the Soul Eaters.

Throughout the book, Torak's sense of loneliness is portrayed in a way that makes the reader sympathize with him, it's tear-jerking. The amount of detail is amazing, each clan has its own customs, distinctive clothing, foods, and much more. Settings are described with care without becoming tedious. The author's love and respect for nature is obvious, through the third person narrator and the characters themselves. And the plot is a page-turner, with few dull moments.

Characters are well developed and lovable, you'll even get attached to the villains. The series isn't for everyone, but I love it. My only problem with the series is that they're published in the UK first and often take months to arrive in the US. Though Wolf Brother was my favorite, Outcast is a strong second. Don't make me choose between Spirit Walker and Soul Eater.


Recommended to: Anyone who likes historical fiction or fantasy, since it mixes the two. Any nature lovers out there. 10+ Some pretty graphic violence and disturbing content.

Everything In Transit

Everything In Transit


By: Jacks Mannequin
Reviewed by: Kait, 14
Rating: It was amazing!


Jacks Mannequin is the "band" created by Andrew McMahon, formerly of the band Something Corporate. Andrew decided to change up his sound by starting a new band, and thus, Jacks Mannequin was born.

With a distinctly poppy sound, Jacks Mannequin combines the beauty of a well-used piano with electric guitar, bass, and a rockin drum set. They even go as far as to use an organ in a couple of their songs!

Every song is applicable to life in different stages. "Holiday From Real", "Mixed Tape", "La La Lie", and "Miss Delaney" all have great beats and a party feel that get you pumped and ready for whatever! Meanwhile, "Bruised" "Into the Airwaves", and "Rescued" are enough to make you cry.

Regardless of what song you listen to, every one has deep meaning that you can spend hours analyzing and applying to life as you see it. I, myself, have had about 6 different "Favorite Tracks" over the week I've had the CD, but the shocking thing for me was, I have yet to find a track that I didn't like. Go ahead! Give Jacks Mannequin a shot! :]


Recommended to: Teenagers!