Welcome to the Winthrop and Somerville Baptist Colleges Library blog.

'Feed' by Mira Grant

2011-12-05T12:20:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

This novel is described on the cover as “gripping, thrilling and brutal” (Publishers weekly) and it is all that and so much more. I should start up front by saying this is another zombie novel (what is it about zombie novels recently - last year it was vampire and werewolf novels and this year zombies) and I have to say I don’t like zombie stories but this novel is different. Yes it’s scary and frightening but it has depth and intelligence and I found it fascinating – it gives a very realistic reason for the zombie virus and an interesting view into the future – a future that we have strong glimpses of now. Georgia, Shaun and Buffy live in a world that is post virus, where everyone takes huge precautions not to get infected and are tested to make sure they are virus free at every turn. They make their living writing and running a blog which contains news stories, video feeds and a fictional aspect. News blogs are read and watched much more than official news sites because they are perceived not to have a corporate agenda, they are more truthful than any media outlet sanctioned by the government. So Georgia and Shaun are thrilled when they get the biggest break of their career, to follow a US senator as he becomes a presidential candidate and makes his run for the white house. This news story is big but they have no idea how big it will get and just how many people will lose their lives in the course of the senator’s run. You must read it, you won’t be able to put it down.

(Image from: http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z1Vc69vnUkI/TezTh_uqzLI/AAAAAAAABQE/fRz2-Ee0XBQ/s1600/feed.jpg)

2011-11-21T09:05:00.002+08:00

Title 'Lockdown'

Author Alexander Gordon Smith
Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

I found this novel to be violent which is to be expected as the series title says “Beneath Heaven Is Hell Beneath Hell Is Furnace”! It was fast moving and full of action.
Furnace is a prison, technically for delinquent boys but our main character, Alex has been set up for the murder of his best mate. He is convicted of his murder and sent to Furnace.
Furnace is a dark windowless building that no-one is freed from and no-one has escaped from.

It is a horrible cruel place to be, with the overseers showing no mercy and deformed large dogs roaming after lockdown, ready to devour anybody caught outside. Then there are the Wheezers who come for you at night. Then there are the gangs inside. Gripping, fearful story line. Will Alex survive?

Alex and his cell mate, Donovan devise a plan to escape……..

Image from http://resources.macmillanusa.com/jackets/500H/9780312611934.jpg

2011-11-15T09:45:00.002+08:00

'Title' EONA

'Author' Alison Goodman

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

In “Eona” Alison Goodman continues the saga of fantasy, murderous intrigues, power struggles, danger and in the midst of all this a love story.

The book is exciting and full of drama. At times I found the constant happenings a little too much as the reader is just busy with one form of action and then something else happens. The love story did surprise me and I kept wondering who would eventually win.

The book ends suddenly and I would have loved a short epilogue of Eona’s future and how her life with the man she loves ends. One needs to read the first book, Eon to enjoy the sequel, Eona.

(Image from http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n66/n332864.jpg)

2011-11-07T10:21:00.002+08:00

'Title" Cool Beans; Latte Daze; Double Shot by Erynn Mangum,
Reviewed by Mrs Hart

This series of books is a breath of fresh air. They are light and fluffy but rather gorgeous. They are all about Maya who is a coffee addict (no surprises there) and her life. Maya works in a coffee shop with her second best friend Jack and lives with her best friend Jen and her dog – Calvin. Over time, her relationship with Jack changes into something much deeper and her best friend Jen also starts a relationship with someone from Maya’s past. This series is very funny and the characters are really lifelike – you really feel you know them well. Erynn Mangum writes light hearted Christian fiction really well. If you like romances and chick lit, you will love this.

(Image fromfromhttp://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n61/n306305.jpg)

2011-11-03T12:20:00.002+08:00

'Title' Nanberry by Jackie French

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

Set in the new colony in Sydney Cove comes this delightful book by Jackie French. Nanberry, an Aboriginal boy is adopted by Surgeon John White. Together with his white brother, Andrew they grow up witnessing the struggles the colony has to endure and Nanberry continues to have memories of his past.

This is based on a true story and follows the lives of the two boys, who follow very different paths into the world. It is a story of love that seems to conquer all between a gentleman surgeon and a convict girl, saved from the death penalty.

A book that that I highly recommend giving one an insight into the beginnings of a great nation.

(image from http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sW886oANrWw/Tk2b1dofYbI/AAAAAAAAbHc/_AEdQk3rVXg/s1600/nanberry.jpg

2011-09-26T08:48:00.002+08:00

“The name of the wind” and “The wise man’s fear” by Patrick Rothfuss.
Reviewed by Mrs Hart

The titles are the first two books in the Kingkiller Chonicles and they are both stunning. These would have to be the best fantasy titles I have read in years. They aren’t a particularly easy read, book one has 722 pages and book 2 is a huge 994 pages with fairly small font but they are well worth it. “The name of the wind” covers one day in the life of Kote, an innkeeper who is telling his amazing life story to a chronicler who is writing it all down. “The wise man’s fear” is day two of this story being recorded and what a life story it is! Kote (who’s real name is Kvothe) is an extraordinary person who has led an amazing life. He has attended the Wizard’s University – the youngest person to do so, he has had great personal tragedy in his life, poverty and homelessness, been persecuted by powerful people, developed his talent as an outstanding musician, worked as a mercenary, learnt many languages and developed fighting skills. Through all these events, there are hints of a major back-story underlying his life and also the question – with all these talents, what is he doing running an inn – so far neither of these have been answered. I absolutely love these books – if you like high fantasy – you must read them. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

(http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1270352123l/186074.jpg)

'The Power of Six' by Pittacus Lore

2011-09-19T10:04:00.001+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham.

This is the sequel to 'I am number four' so do I really need to say more! If you liked that book you will love this one.

Lore introduced Six in the first book and this one is primarily about her and she is one level headed, amazing, fighting machine. We find out more about her life and how she was there to rescue John, number four, when the Mogadorians attacked.

The story starts with us being introduced to Marina and her Cephan, Adelina who live at a monastery in Spain. She has had a totally different life to what John has had as Adelina has told Marina very little and her legacies are developing. How long can they continue to stay at the monastery?

Meanwhile John and Six are constantly on the run, from the FBI as well as the Magadorians. They are trying to work out what the precious stones that are in John’s treasure chest can do and should they try and find Six’s chest. Her chest was taken from her by the Magadorians when she was captured.

How will Six, Marina and John’s paths cross? This is a fast moving, action packed novel. It is probably a good idea to read “I am number four” first.

(image from http://images4.fanpop.com/image/photos/24300000/The-Power-of-Six-cover-the-power-of-six-24331329-332-500.jpg)

'Double Helix' by Nancy Werlin

2011-09-15T12:05:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Eli Samuels applies for and accepts a job with Wyatt Transgenics, working for the famous molecular biologist Dr Quincy Wyatt. Eli’s father is opposed to this job and seems particularly angry that Eli will be working closely with Dr Wyatt.
Graduation from high school is imminent and Eli is taking a year off to work instead of heading straight to College, providing greater angst and tension between Eli and his father. As the rift between father and son grows and communication becomes more strained, Eli becomes more engrossed in his work and seeks out Dr Wyatt.
Read the novel to find out the real reason Eli’s father has great dislike for Dr Wyatt. Could Eli have mistaken assumptions regarding the past relationship of his mother (who is now severely ill with Huntington’s disease), and Dr Wyatt? What is really being developed and studied at Wyatt Transgenics?
Will Eli walk away from his relationship with Viv to pursue the beautiful Kayla and what complications will that bring?
Fantastic read

(Image from : http://www.nancywerlin.com/images/covers/helix2.JPG)

'And then everything unravelled' by Jennifer Sturman

2011-09-05T09:37:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

Delia Truesdale’s life changes forever when her mother, internet tycoon, T.K. goes missing, presumed dead. Delia is sent to live with her aunts in New York. One a bohemian and the other a snob.

Delia is convinced that her mother is not dead and starts an enquiry on her own which unravels a mystery. In between all this she is forging a new life for herself.

The book will appeal to girls. Be warned however, that the mystery does not end and leaves the reader hanging in the air. This is because there is a sequel, And Then I Found out the Truth, which brings the story to an end. A quick, enjoyable and easy read. Watch this space for the review to the sequel.

('Image from : http://images.borders.com.au/images/bau/97805450/9780545087230/70/0/plain/and-then-everything-unraveled.jpg)

'Matched' by Ally Condie

2011-08-29T11:09:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

This futuristic romance is a terrific read. Cassie is seventeen and is about to attend her “matching’ ceremony, where she will be matched with her life partner whom she will get to know and then marry and have children with. It’s all very exciting for her and unusually, she is matched with someone she already knows. However, when she opens up the file with his details, she sees another guy’s face – and it’s also someone she knows. How could the Officials have made such a major mistake and what will she do about it?
This is set in a society where everything is controlled and, on the surface, no one seems to mind because it’s for the good of everyone. Even the past is regulated and almost all of history and literature is missing – only the top 100 events and top 100 poems have been kept. It’s a really interesting setting and Cassie’s journey to find out the truth make for a great read. I loved it.

(Image from : http://www.penguin.com.au/jpg-large/9780141333052.jpg)

'The Warlock' by Michael Scott

2011-08-23T09:18:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

The long awaited book five in the series of “The Secrets of the Immortal" by Nicholas Flamel has arrived. The story has so many characters and settings that I was finding it hard going trying to keep up with everything. The author has however pieced everything together rather well and it is with great expectation I look forward to reading what happens in the final book, book six.

Josh has sided with John Dee and Virginia Dare the antagonists or are they?? They heading to Alcatraz to unleash the creatures to please the Elders. Will Machiavelli and Billy the Kid try to stop them?

Sophie is still with the dying Nicholas and his wife Perenelle. They are staying with Sophie’s aunt who turns out to be the wife of Abraham the Mage!

I would suggest that you need to have read some of the other books in the series to enjoy this one.

(Image from : http://www.dillonscott.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/the-warlock1.jpg)

Candor by Pam Bachorz

2011-08-15T13:00:00.001+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Candor is a town in Florida, where life is perfect. Inhabitants live in harmony. Parents have no concerns with their teens and there are certainly no rebellious teenagers. In fact children are quick to finish homework, study for exams, and complete any household chores. Life is bliss!

Parents who are finding their children disrespectful and rebellious are keen to live in Candor, therefore only the wealthy can afford to live in this idyllic setting.

Oscar is the only living child of the towns’ founder, and he knows far more than his father realises. Oscar is aware that his father is brainwashing the townsfolk and he has created a few messages of his own. If you want to leave Candor, Oscar is the person to see. He is able to arrange a safe escape for teens who want to secretly leave, but he faces dire consequences if his secret is out.

(Image from : http://www.pambachorz.com/storage/Candor_cover_FINAL.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1286938356047)

'Fury' by Shirley Marr

2011-08-08T11:39:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

Fury is a change from novels that are hitting the book shelves at the moment. It is about a group of teenagers and their life in East Rivermoor. Elize is wealthy, privileged, outspoken, and sitting in a police station, accused of murder. With support from a police officer, she begins to tell her story.

The book skips from present to past throughout, which makes you anxious to know the ending. The novel has a dark and sinister undertone, but is hilarious at times. Pick up the book from our new book stand and read on ...

(Image from : http://shirleymarr.net/news/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Official-Fury-Cover-Shirley-Marr.jpg)

'The forest of hands and teeth' by Carrie Ryan

2011-08-01T10:07:00.005+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

This is the best book I have read this year. It’s a stunning mixture of a vision of the future, strong relationships and…zombies (no – don’t let that put you off – it is not a ‘typical’ zombie book). Mary lives in a very small village, surrounded by high metal fences. Inside the village the sisters who live in the cathedral keep control; the guardians patrol to keep everyone safe and Mary waits for a boy she loves to speak for her and finds out too many secrets. Outside the fence the unconsecrated continually moan and reach out for the villagers, whose flesh draws them continually…and then the fence is breached! I’m getting goosebumps as I write this. This book is "unputdownable". You must read it!

(Image from : http://carrieryan.com/images/fhticon.jpg)

'The dead I know' by Scot Gardner

2011-07-05T10:45:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

If you ever wondered what an undertaker’s job is like then this book is for you. “The dead I know” is about a young man, Aaron who is given a job with a funeral director. Aaron is a quiet, maybe, disturbed young man who lives with his guardian Mam at the local caravan park. Mam’s mental health seems to be in question and Aaron tries to help as best he can as he loves her and she is the only family he has.

We meet John Barton who owns the funeral parlour and his lovely, helpful family, Mrs Barton and twelve year old daughter, Skye. John takes Aaron under his wing as he shows promise as an assistant and the dead don’t seem to bother him.

As the plot unravels we find out that he has a chronic sleepwalking problem and recurring dreams that he can’t explain. Dreams of a lifeless hand, a man and blood. He often awakes to find himself not in his bed but a long way from home, unable to remember anything.

To add to Aaron’s woes there is Westy, who is a fellow inhabitant of the caravan park. Westy is in with a nasty crowd and thinks Aaron has stolen a considerable amount of money accrued through selling drugs. Westy will go to violent lengths to get his money back.

Aaron’s past unfolds alongside his present dilemmas. Can he put the past behind him and find his peace?
A heart-breaking, touching read.

(Image from : http://images.angusrobertson.com.au/images/ar/9c1c6b42/9c1c6b42-4fef-4754-945c-75dcfa385b46/100/0/plain/the-dead-i-know.jpg)

'Trash' by Andrew Mulligan

2011-06-28T10:44:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Raphael and Gardo are friends who search through waste at the rubbish dump to find items that will be useful to them in order to survive. They are not alone, as many in their society are also faced with the task of searching through refuse at the dump, simply to stay alive.

When Raphael and Gardo find something intriguing, they decide to hide the item and keep it a secret. It is difficult for them to maintain their silence, when swarms of police come to interrogate those who search the rubbish dump. Gripped with fear and seeking to keep their find hidden, they draw their friend Jun-Jun into their circumstances.

Their journey becomes one of intrigue and mystery, they search for a locker, visit a prisoner, hide from the authorities and much more as they try to unlock the significance of their find and discover why the police are so interested in the discarded bag. They struggle to stay safe and remain one step ahead of the law enforcement authorities.

Could this bag be the treasure that will ensure they have a hopeful future and bring an end to their relentless search through the rubbish and waste?

This was a fantastic read.
(Image from : http://images.angusrobertson.com.au/images/ar/779b11a1/779b11a1-03ce-4bde-b66b-f723aab28932/100/0/plain/trash.jpg)

'Poh’s kitchen : my cooking adventures' by Poh Ling Yeow

2011-06-20T09:34:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley.

Remember Poh in 2009 exploding onto our TV screens in the now very popular Master Chef programme. Not only did she steal our hearts with her wide smile but also her incredible aptitude to make the most out of any situation she found herself in.

Her book, Poh’s Kitchen, is artistically designed (Poh is a professional artist) and beautifully photographed. Over 80 easy to follow and cook recipes will soon have the reader inspired to cook up a storm. There is a huge variety of recipes covering soups, fish, poultry, meat vegetables and sweet things.

What makes this recipe book different from others is that she cooks alongside celebrity chefs, exposing us, the reader, to their expertise.

Take a walk on the wild side ………………. Find a recipe in this book and give it a go……
Who knows you may just be the next Master Chef.

(Image from : http://bks6.books.google.com/books?id=jD8KSQAACAAJ&printsec=frontcover&img=1&zoom=1)

Divergent by Veronica Roth

2011-06-13T11:32:00.005+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart.

I’ve been asked lots of times, to recommend a book as good as Hunger games – well here it is – almost. Divergent is set in a possible future time where humanity has been divided in to factions: Abnegation (who practise selflessness); Candor (truthfulness/honesty); Dauntless (who are the guardians – the bravest); Erudite (the intellectuals/researchers); and Amity (peace/friendship). Beatrice has just turned 16 and does the test which selects which faction(s) she can choose from. Most people choose the same faction as their parents, it is unusual to choose another. If you do choose a different faction than your family, your faction becomes ‘your family’. Beatrice who has been brought up in Abnegation chooses Dauntless and has to prove she is extremely brave before she even gets to their compound. Once there, she has to fight (not only physically but mentally) in order to stay. But Beatrice (or Tris as she is now known) has a secret, she is a divergent and so is in danger – you’ll have to read it to find out why. This is a great read, in my opinion it is almost as good as Hunger games. This will be one of the most popular books in 2011.

(Image from : http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dipXdu9QryU/TIupjzY1vsI/AAAAAAAAAh8/9EC03NOMqWs/s1600/Divergent+hc+c(2).jpg)

Picture Perfect by D. Anne Love

2011-05-30T09:36:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Phoebe, a teen, about to go into high school, her life is picture perfect. Then she finds herself struggling when her Mum moves away indefinitely to further her career. Phoebe feels tense and worried, when a gorgeous widow moves in next door and befriends her Dad. While this is all unfolding, Phoebe’s ever reliable brother Zane is in trouble with the police, which is out of character for him.
Beginning high school, Phoebe finds herself navigating the new routine of high school and her first boyfriend, without the help and advice of her Mum or her best friend, who has moved away.
All Phoebe’s attempts to pin her Mum and Dad down on when Mum will be coming home, come to nothing and Phoebe becomes increasingly annoyed with the ever present neighbour. When her father, who is a judge, is assaulted, because people in the local area disagree with his ruling on a case, Phoebe and her family seem face difficulty on many fronts.

Read this novel to find out how the family cope.

(Image from : http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n68/n344192.jpg)

Beyond the Sunset by Anna Jacobs

2011-05-23T11:19:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley.

This is the second book in the fortunes of the Blake sisters, who first appeared in Farewell To Lancashire. It is 1860 and the Blake sisters are together again in the untamed outback of Western Australia. Of the four sisters, Pandora remains homesick and when a messenger arrives from England she jumps at the chance to return to her beloved Lancashire and the moors she misses so badly.

The voyage home will be hard but even harder will be getting home to encounter the devious and dangerous enemy who will do anything and go to incredible lengths to prevent her from taking charge of her family’s inheritance.

I enjoyed the pioneering spirit of the book, laced with romance, personal struggles, adventure and deceit.

One can read the books as stand alone novels. However, knowing the background to the girls
helps with this novel.

The third book, Destiny’s Path is out in March, 2011 and continues the saga of the Blake sisters.

(Image from : http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=8230379436941242985)

'When Rose wakes' by Christopher Golden

2011-05-16T09:51:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart.

Rose is ‘coma girl’. She was in a coma for the last 2 years and during that time her aunts moved her from France to America where the treatment was more advanced. When Rose finally wakes she has amnesia and can’t understand much of what is going on but she gradually adapts, has physiotherapy, eventually goes home and starts school. So far it all sounds fairly straight forward, doesn’t it? But – and there is a huge but - Rose starts to have strange dreams and her aunts behave in a decidedly weird manner – making her drink a strange herbal tea each night, putting charms up at her bedroom window and insisting she stays away from boys. Rose isn’t sure if the dreams are simply a result of being in a coma or if there is something from her past she is starting to remember. Why are there crows around her and who is the woman who seems to stalk her? This novel is full of menace. You really aren’t sure what is going on and what the truth is. It’s really good – you have to read it.
(Image from : http://www.christophergolden.com/whenrosewakes300.jpg)

'The dead and the gone' by Susan Pfeffer

2011-05-09T10:50:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

The second book in the science fiction trilogy “The last survivors”, it can however be read on it’s own. The asteroid has hit the moon causing it to move and things on Earth are not the same.

New York has been hit by a gigantic tsunami as have other places in the world. New York is where Alex Morales and his family live, except his father is away at his grandmothers funeral and his brother Carlos is away with the army. Their mother has gone to work but doesn’t return and they eventually assume that she was one of the thousands that died when the tsunami first hit. That leaves Alex and his two sisters, Briana and Julie to face the unknown alone.

With freezing weather setting in and volcanoes erupting inland, the future is looking bleak.
They are not quite alone as their Catholic community tries to hold life together and they are befriended by Kevin.
The plot unfolds steadily, building to the climax of will they actually make it!! Where can they go, will they escape, can they survive?

(Image from : http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/isbnthumbs/140/711/1407117327.jpg)

'Arrow' by R.J. Anderson

2011-05-02T11:49:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

The third book in the Rebel series, follows the Oakenfolk and Fairies in their fight against the evil Empress. Rhosmari leaves the Green Isles to seek Garan and the ‘naming stone’ in order to return it to its rightful owners. Setting out on her own and without the blessing of her mother, Rhosmari places her trust in Martin in her quest to seek Garen and the Oakenfolk fairies.
Rhosmari’s journey sees her trapped by the Empress with what appears to be no way to escape. Can Rhosmari warn the Oakenfolk and set herself and others free?
Read this novel to find out!

This was another fantastic read from the Rebel series - Rebel, Knife and now Arrow. A great fantasy.

(Image from : http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1279650302l/8068431.jpg)

'The Rebel Prince' by Celine Kiernan

2011-04-11T10:17:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

Brothers Alberon and Razi reunite after being separated for a few years. However, war has taken its toll and their differences surface causing friction between them. Alberon wants to protect the kingdom by strength not diplomacy. He has put his hope in Lord Moorehawke’s machine called the Bloody Machine. Razi fears the machine will be detrimental to the kingdom and undo all the good their father achieved. Wynter sides with Alberon, but is this a wise decision?

Read the final book in the Moorhawke trilogy to find out what happens and how Wynter finds her loyalties stretched.

All three books are excellent and one feels richer for having read the entire trilogy.(Image from : http://www.qbd.com.au/products/l/8719/9781741758719.jpg)

'The Project' by Brian Falkner

2011-04-04T09:39:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart It’s not very often that I blog about a book that I didn’t really enjoy, if I did – this would be one of them. “The project” has a great plot: a book was published in 1853 called ‘Leonardo’s river’, only one copy was ever printed and it is known to be the most boring book in the world. Hidden in this book is an amazing secret – one that could change the world in a dramatic way. The search is on to find the only copy. Two boys, Luke and Tommy start a dangerous quest to track the book down and reveal its secret. This novel is really exciting, full of death defying events, Nazis and complex world changing machinery, it’s a really great plot, however, there are also some childish elements (check out Godzilla the squirrel) which I found really off putting. Don’t take my word for it – read it yourself and tell me what you think.

(http://www.readplus.com.au/covers/project.jpg)

'The Blue-eyed Aborigine' by Rosemary Hayes

2011-03-28T12:06:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

This historical fiction novel is based on the shipwreck of the Batavia near the Abrolhos Islands, off the coast of WA, in 1629. The Batavia was travelling with passengers and cargo from Holland to the Dutch East Indies in Java. In real life, it was a murderous affair with brewing mutiny on board the ship, then a ship wreck which placed the survivors on the waterless islands.

On the islands, the struggle for survival is not the only danger with cut throat sailors and blood thirsty soldiers being lead by Corneliez. The end result is not pleasant and the main protagonists Jan Pelgrom, a cabin boy and Wouter Looes, a soldier are given freedom instead of a death sentence. The men are set adrift on a small boat with some supplies and headed in the direction of the mainland. As we don’t know what happened to them, the author tells a realistic story of what could have happened. Did they make it to the mainland? Did they make contact with the natives? Read on to see what the author thought, the title may give you a clue.

(Image from : http://www.walkerbooks.com.au/statics/dyn/1276050258498.jpeg)

'Burning Enna' by Shannon Hale

2011-03-21T10:15:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

The kingdom of Bayern is under threat by the neighbouring kingdom of Tira. Enna develops the ability to create and send fire to burn people and objects. With a strong desire to defend the kingdom of Bayern, and with her close friendship with Isi, Enna is determined to use her skill to help in the war.
When Enna is taken captive by the Tiran army, she is kept in a tent by the handsome Sileph and feelings appear to grow between the two. Sileph is charming toward Enna and influences her to use her burning skills.
When Enna’s friends Razo and Finn try to rescue her, they are also taken captive. Enna is fighting a growing desire to use her gift and finds it increasingly difficult to resist its all consuming power.

I found this novel a little disinteresting at first, but the action picked up in the second half of the book. In my opinion, ‘Enna Burning’ is not as enjoyable as Goose Girl, the first in the Bayern series.

(Image from : http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1293503383l/248482.jpg)

'Crowded Shadows' by Celine Kiernan

2011-03-14T10:12:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley.

Crowded Shadows is the second book in the Moorehawke Trilogy. The scene is set in Medieval Europe. Wynter Moorhawke, alone for the first time in her life leaves the safety of court life to follow instructions given to her by her father and others.
Not long into her dangerous journey, she is joined by her friends, Christopher and Razi. They find themselves in a world surrounded by treachery, deceit and politics.
What is behind the conspiracy?

Read Crowded Shadows and find out.
This book is as good as the first ………………………….. book 3 is out. Watch this space.

(Image from: http://ar-images.tangentone.com.au/images/ar/97817417/9781741758702/100/0/plain/crowded-shadows.jpg)

'Marrying Ameera: for better…or for worse' by Rosanne Hawke.

2011-03-08T12:15:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

Cultures and religions clash in this fabulous Australian novel. Ameera’s mother is Christian and Australian and her father is Muslim and from Pakistan. It’s a happy family until Ameera starts to grow up and her father starts to become very concerned about what she is doing and the company she is keeping. He makes more and more rules and starts to control most of Ameera’s life. She knows he is only doing this out of love and to protect her but she finds it very restricting, especially now she has met Tariq. There is a family wedding back in Pakistan and Ameera is sent to join the wedding party. When she gets there, she finds out she isn’t only there to celebrate a wedding, she is also there to be a bride herself, to a man she has never met. Will Ameera get away or will she be forced into a marriage? You have to read this book to find out.

I would highly recommend this – it put a human face on the practice of forced marriages and highlights what a complex issue it is. It’s a great read.
(Image from: http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_l0Fgwr58hnM/TS0ea__LR7I/AAAAAAAABHg/b1iwTHKcMLA/s400/marrying%2Bameera.jpg)

'I Am Number Four' by Pittacus Lore

2011-02-28T11:47:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

The aliens are out there in space and some are hiding here on Earth, the last of their race. This is a gripping read with adventure, mystery, sci-fi and romance all in one novel!
John Smith, a sixteen year old, and his guardian Henri are from the planet Lorien. The planet was invaded by the Magadorian – a ruthless, strategic, destroying race, whose own planet had been made inhabitable. Nine young Loriens and their Garde are sent to Earth for safe refuge. John is number four. The Magadorians are on a double mission to Earth, to destroy the Loriens and to assess Earth as a possible planet to conqueror.

The nine young Loriens are protected with powerful charms, but if the Magadorians kill them in order and with their special sword, they die. The Loriens know when one has died because a burning scar in the shape of a ring forms on their leg. John is number four and the third ring has just arrived, so now they are after him and it will be a fight to the death. Can he escape and to where???

The romance in the novel, comes in the form of Sarah, a human who befriends John at school and who adds an interesting dimension to the plot.

There will have to be a sequel.

(Image from: http://yareads.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/n353585.jpg)

The Rosie Black Chronicles by Lara Morgan

2011-02-24T12:23:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Set five hundred years in the future, Rosie and her friend Julie find a box with several items inside. One of the items is a computer device, which they place in Julie’s computer to try and uncover more information. This act sets off a chain of events that has dire consequences for Julie and her family and has Rosie on the run for her life. Who is the feral Pip? Can Pip and his boss Riley be trusted or should Julie stay well away from them? Julie has so much to tell her Aunt Essie, but will she have the opportunity? What is the MalX virus?
Read the novel to learn their fate!

(Image from: http://www.readplus.com.au/covers/rosieblack.jpg)

'A Kiss in Time' by Alex Flinn

2011-02-14T12:18:00.006+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

This is a modern take on “Sleeping Beauty”. Talia, the princess pricks her finger on her sixteenth birthday, whereupon the entire kingdom of Euphrasia falls into a deep sleep. Three hundred years later, Jack is in Europe on a month long cultural tour. Both he and his best friend, Travis are bored of museums and decide to ditch the tour and go to the beach.

However, they get lost and stumble upon the hidden kingdom of Euphrasia, Jack has this incredible desire to kiss the sleeping princess. The result, the curse is broken and the entire kingdom wakes up.

Talia convinces Jack to take her to America. Talia, a spoilt brat and Jack a lost soul, make an interesting team. Talia is introduced to modern life and Jack finds help with direction in his life through Talia. They start to fall in love, however, you will have to read the novel to find out if they manage to live happily ever after....

Alex Flinn has done an excellent job with the retelling of this story. She has very cleverly brought this old fairytale back to life with a modern twist. An entertaining, romantic and funny novel.

(Image from: http://www.harpercollins.com/harperimages/isbn/large/6/9780060874216.jpg)

'The Road’ by Cormac McCarthy

2010-11-22T10:46:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

A man, a boy, father and son and a bleak, desolate, hopeless existence in a post-apocalyptic world. Trudging constantly, rarely resting in a dead, dull, ruined, almost lifeless existence. Fighting for survival and constantly in a state of anxiety. No hope, little food, survival pared back to the very basics in the desolate hateful remnants of the world in which they live.
Not a light hearted book, one that leaves a feeling of desolation from the very beginning.
(Image from: http://www.criticalmick.com/images/mccarthy_the_road.jpg)

'The happiest refugee: a memoir.' By Anh Do

2010-11-15T12:59:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart
I’ve only ever seen Anh Do in the television show “Thank God you’re here” so this autobiography came as quite a surprise. Anh Do is incredibly talented – at art, writing, as a comedian and as a lawyer – an really interesting mix.
‘The happiest refugee’ is a wonderful memoir, full of great family stories, some sad but most really heartwarming. Anh Do’s family made an extremely hazardous boat trip, away from Vietnam, surviving two pirate attacks and ended up in Australia (thinking it was Austria and really, really cold). Here the family found life hard work but they survived by being a very close family and having a lot of laughs. The blurb says ‘this book is an ‘incredible, uplifting and inspiring life story’, it’s a superb read which made me laugh out loud at times and will leave you feeling glad you live here and very proud to be Australian. If you ever felt unsure about whether Australia should accept more refugees – you must read this. This would be up there with one of the best books I have read this year.

(Image from: http://www.allenandunwin.com/BookCovers/resized_9781742372389_224_297_FitSquare.jpg)

'The Winds of Heaven' by Judith Clarke

2010-11-09T09:05:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

A moving story of two young cousins, Fan and Clementine, and how their childhood experiences and choices they make as teenagers determines their future.

Clementine grows up in a stable loving home, whereas Fan is labelled and lives with a mother who is coping with her own disappointments in life. Fan dreamed of magical countries and blue hills when little, and later on about love. Clementine thought Fan’s house had distinctive smells yet a sense of anger seemed to hang over the house.

Fan comes across as strong and beautiful, yet always seeking something. The reader senses the anguish in both girls and how life at times can throw us curved balls. It is a sensitively written book with sadness and hope intermingled.

This book was runner up to the CBC awards.

(Image from: http://www.allenandunwin.com/BookCovers/resized_9781741757316_80_124_FitSquare.jpg?633760164576090584)

'Last Dance' by Melody Carlson

2010-11-03T08:43:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

The Last Dance is from the “Carter House Girls” series by Melody Carlson. What a fantastic series for teenagers to read, especially girls, as it deals with real life situations. The Carter House is owned by DJ’s Grandmother who runs it as a boarding home for girls. The girls all attend the local High School, the girls being Eliza, Rhiannon, Casey, Desiree, Kriti and Taylor.
So with six teenage girls living in the same house lots of interesting issues come about. The girls are nearing the end of their high school year with the prom looming. Who is going with who? Will Eliza be prom queen, and will the girls support spoilt Eliza in her quest?
Casey does not seem interested in the prom even though she is still going out with her bossy boyfriend. In fact, Casey seems to be quite withdrawn, so what is going on?

Easy to read and with a Christian emphasis throughout the novel makes this an enjoyable and positive read. Maybe start with the first book Mixed Bags.
(Image from: http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n66/n330955.jpg)

'Only the Good Spy Young' by Ally Carter

2010-10-25T10:11:00.005+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth
Cammie Morgan, spy in training is back. There is a problem, a major one. After the attempt on her life, Cammie is no longer sure who she can trust. Once again someone is pursuing her, but who and why?
This novel is fast paced, with twists and turns that keep you reading to find out if Cammie will be safe. Why is the trusted and respected teacher Mr Solomon being chased and can Cammie trust him? There is an interesting twist with Cammie and Zach, is he friend or foe?
Cammie is left feeling resentful when agent Edward Townsend comes to take Joe Solomon’s place at the Gallagher girl academy. Will the girls learn to trust him or will they discover that he has an evil secret? What secrets will be revealed about Cammie's father?
If you have enjoyed the previous novels in this series, loan this one today!

(Image from: http://www.bigw.com.au/media/BIGW/Product/300x300/7962974_0_9999_med_v1_m56577569830552177.jpg)

'The clockwork angel' by Cassandra Clare

2010-10-18T09:56:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

I’ve been waiting excitedly for this book to arrive and made sure I was the first to grab it when it got here so I could read it over the weekend. This is the prequel to the superb ‘Mortal instruments’ series (‘City of bones’, ‘City of ashes’; ‘City of glass’) and is set in Victorian London. It’s darker than the first books and is also going to be a series as it ends on a cliff-hanger. It starts quite slowly and takes a while to become absorbed in the story. Tessa arrives from America, following her brother Nate who has written asking her to join him. When she arrives she is kidnapped and forced to learn how to ‘change’ (take on the form of someone else). She manages to escape and finds refuge with the Shadowhunters wondering all the time what she is – human or ??? Her Shadowhunter friends also have many secrets that are unresolved. I think that would be the part of the book that I was disappointed in– there are far too many unanswered questions. I’ll just have to wait for the next one. We are getting multiple copies for the library.

(Image from : http://thechristianmanifesto.com/main/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/clockwork-angel1.jpg)

'The Poison Throne' by Celine Kiernan

2010-10-11T10:40:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

The Poison Throne is the first book in the Moorehawke Trilogy. I found the book enthralling and engaging from page one and found it hard to put down. Although very detailed (this may put some off), the story moves rapidly and one is introduced to the main characters very quickly with all their quirks and traits.

We meet Wynter, girl apprentice and friend to the sons of kings. Wynter is forced to make a hard choice: stay and bow to the king, or abandon her ailing father and join her friends, Razi and Christopher to restore the kingdom which is under threat.

The Poison Throne is an excellent fantasy book. One is exposed to an enchanting world. A world of jealousy, tenderness, war, wisdom, court life, treachery and love. It is a dynamic read and as one finishes the last page the reader is left wanting. Luckily there are two more books to read. Watch this space for the continued saga of the Moorehawke Trilogy.
(Image from : http://fictionetal.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/9781741758702.jpg)

'Rose' by Holly Webb

2010-09-20T10:07:00.005+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

This is a magical book set in the times of Kings and Queens of Europe. Rose lives in a girls orphanage were she has a hard life, as the orphanage is poor. Then one day Miss Bridges arrives at the orphanage, looking for a girl to train as servant for Mr Fountain’s House. Mr Fountain being an alchemist for the King, he has magical powers that enable him to protect the kingdom and make gold for the King. Rose is wrapped that she is going to his house.

Rose settles in and can feel the ‘magic’ which helps to develop her powers! Of course there has to be a mystery to solve. When Rose discovers her friend Maise has gone missing along with other children, Rose can feel the sinister magic. What is happening? Will Rose be able to help?

The novel moves along at a fast pace and maintains your interest. Recommended for lower
school readers.
(Image from : http://img.tesco.com/pi/Books/L/71/9781408304471.jpg)

Beautiful Monster by Kate McCaffrey

2010-09-13T09:59:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Tessa and her younger brother Brodie are on their way home from school, when tragedy strikes. Hit by a car as he is trying to cross the street, Brodie later dies. This traumatic event brings loss, sadness and despair and Tessa wants her family back the way they were, before the accident and the devastating loss of Brodie.
Tessa finds comfort with Ned, who initially seems to be supportive and caring. As the novel unfolds, Ned is not as supportive as we initially think, with serious consequences. Who is Ned? Where does he exist? Will he stick around?

(Image: http://www.fremantlepress.com.au/dreamgirl/filesend/5344/9781921361982_BEAUTIFULMONSTER.png)

Ebook Readers

2010-09-01T10:07:00.004+08:00

Thoughts from Mrs Hart.
I’m not going to blog about a book this week. I thought I’d blog about ebook readers. I’d love to know how many of you have them? What brand/type did you buy? What sort of books do you download – new titles that you have to buy or the free, older titles? Most of all, I’d like to know what do you think the library should do about ebooks and ebook readers? Should we buy some to lend to students with books already downloaded onto them? Would you rather read a book on an ebook reader or read a paperback? Why? Which reading experience is better? For fun? For study? Have any of you stopped reading paperbacks and only read on an ebook reader?
We want our library to always be an exciting, up to date place so these questions are very important. I’d love your input and comments.

(Image from: http://www.sonyreadervskindle.com/files/QuickSiteImages/ebook-reader-reviews.jpg)

"The Other Countess" by Eve Edwards

2010-08-23T11:31:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

Set in England in 1582, we meet Ellie, a well-educated, strong willed, fun loving and independent woman living in an era when women are expected to marry. Fate has not been kind to her, yet despite many setbacks she remains dignified and true to herself.

The book is romantic, fascinating, fun, and witty. There are numerous characters in the book and one is inclined to love them or detest them. The author has researched this era well and the reader is transported back in time. Despite this being a fiction book one gets a very good understanding of life in England during 1582 and it adds to the story.

The book holds one’s interest and is an easy read with events unfolding from chapter to chapter. It lends itself more towards girls. There is a sequel to the book, "The Queen’s Lady” coming out in the near future.

(Image from : http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n70/n353577.jpg)

"Fightback" by Steve Voake

2010-08-16T10:16:00.003+08:00

Reviewed Mrs Hanham

Kier’s life is about to change dramatically. His father picks him up from his karate tournament and on the way home it appears they may be victims of road rage, but then the men start firing at them. His father manages to steer the car away and they head for the hospital, as he has been shot. His father gives Kier a final message and tells him to run.

But where to run to? Kier finds himself being hunted by the people who killed his father.
Keir manages to decipher the message his father left and heads to the secret destination. He finds a tube with a lot of money in it but no clues, then he finds himself staring at the point of a knife. Is this another foe?
This is an action packed, fast moving story that maintains your interest.

(Image from: http://rgr-static1.tangentlabs.co.uk/images/ar/97805712/9780571230037/150/0/plain/fightback.jpg)

"Heist Society" by Ally Carter

2010-08-09T10:08:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Katerina Bishop is a professional thief. Her family has made a living by stealing priceless art work. Kat however has decided she would like to have a normal life and is safely enrolled in boarding school. Kat’s enrolment at boarding school is rescinded when she is accused of parking the principal’s car in a water fountain.
Kat’s father, Bobby Bishop is accused of stealing famous paintings from a rather ruthless man who threatens to turn her father into the authorities, if Kat does not return his precious art work.
The adventure heats up as Kat has to try to solve the mystery of the stolen art work, then she plots to steal it and return it to its owner. The only trouble is …Where is the missing art work? How will she deal with the latest in protective and secure technology? Can she outwit the man blackmailing her? Read the novel to find out what happens.
If you enjoy Ally Carter’s Gallagher Girls series, I am sure you will also enjoy this novel.

(Image from : http://www.thegallaghergirls.com/heist/images/Heist_cover.jpg)

'When I was Joe' by Keren David

2010-08-02T10:06:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

I took heaps of books home to read in the holidays and this was the one that really stood out. I read it in one day and couldn’t wait to finish it. It’s about Ty, a teenage boy who witnesses someone being killed and reports it to the police. However, this murder is connected to an organised criminal gang so Ty and his mother have to go into witness protection and assume new identities. Ty becomes Joe, with a new name, image and school and a brand new life. It’s an incredible opportunity and Joe makes the most of it with new friends and a new sport, but his past keeps on catching up with him and you start to wonder just how innocent was Ty, did he just observe the murder or… This is an excellent thriller and you have to read it.

(Image from: http://i.telegraph.co.uk/telegraph/multimedia/archive/01604/joestory_1604556f.jpg)

"Breathing Underwater" by Julia Green

2010-07-26T10:02:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

This book was nominated for the 'West Australian Young Readers' Book Award' 2010.
Teenage girl, Freya decides to spend her summer holiday with her grandparents, where her brother Joe drowned the summer before. Her mother is not prepared to go back to the island.

Freya has this fear that she may be responsible for Joe’s fatal boat accident as well as trying to cope with her grief. During the summer holiday she meets the girl, Joe was in love with and others who bring back memories and mysterious meetings.

Freya has fears common to teenagers who have not suffered grief or loss. Her grandfather is ill and she is not sure whether it is serious. She is super-sensitive and it is the casual and easy camaradie of the summer crowd on St. Ailla, with games being played, barbeques and watching the stars that encourage Freya to join the activities being offered and allow her to realise that life goes on.

Freya is a water-baby and despite Joe’s accident her love for swimming continues. She is fearless and brave when swimming and by the end she is ready to face the future no matter what it may hold.

(Image from : http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n61/n309931.jpg)

"Jarvis 24" by David Metzenthen

2010-07-20T10:54:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

This book is on the short list nominations for 2010 Children’s Book Council Awards, so it comes highly recommended.

Jarvis 24 is about Marc Jarvey, a young guy growing up. He is a footy player and has a best mate called Trav. They have to organize their own work experience and of course, Marc hasn’t done anything about his. As he is walking home he passes a car yard and decides to try for work experience there and he succeeds.
Here at the car yard is where the story unfolds and he meets the other characters in the novel and some life issues he has to deal with. A lot happens in the short time he is on work experience.
He meets Electra, an athlete runner from Broome whose family knows the boss of the car yard. He falls in love with Electra at first glance and romance blossoms, well eventually when he gets around to asking her out, but will it last?
Then there is the hunky, twentyfour year old Mikey who works at the car yard and has some family secrets. Both ocker Trav and Marc befriend Mikey.
The storyline moves along at a steady pace and keeps you interested but why is it called Jarvis 24?

(Image from: http://www.det.wa.edu.au/education/cmis/eval/fiction/bookweek/bwimages/Jarvis24.jpg)

"The Dragonfly Pool" by Eva Ibbotson

2010-06-08T08:26:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth
Tally Hamilton is a delightful girl who lives with her father, a local doctor, and aunts, in England. The novel is set in Europe at the onset of WWII when children are being sent away from central London, to better protect them from bombing and the effects of the war. Tally is facing the ominous prospect of being separated from her father and aunts and being sent to boarding school.
Tally is much loved by those around her and seems to take great joy in helping others and sees the best in others.
Once at boarding school she quickly embraces life in this unfamiliar setting and makes many friends. The school arranges to visit the Kingdom of Bergania, for a dance festival. Bergania is making a stand against Hitler and there is a terrible plan underway. While in Bergania, the children from Delderton Hall meet the young Prince Karil.
Without giving the story away… You will have to read to find out…What becomes of the King? Prince Karil comes under the harsh, suffocating care of his grandfather. How can he escape? What part do the young group of dancers play? What becomes of the kingdom of Bergania?
Read the story to find out… This is a delightful read that I am sure you will enjoy.

(Image from : http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n49/n248260.jpg)

Murder at Mansfield Park by Lynn Shepherd

2010-06-01T10:55:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart
This is a different sort of addition to the “Jane Austen with a twist type books” because, unlike ‘Pride and prejudice and zombies’, it doesn’t contain passages from the original book, just the setting and the characters. Murder at Mansfield Park is beautifully written, the language is very ‘Jane Austen’ and although the pursuit of a suitable husband is an undercurrent, the main plotline is murder and the investigation of the crime. Just who is murdered I’m not going to say but if you have read Mansfield Park and found one character highly annoying you won’t be disappointed. I have to confess that I didn’t know who had committed the murder(s) until the end of the book so this should really keep you guessing.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s witty, clever and superbly conjures up the time of Jane Austen. The characters and setting are excellent. Read it and compare it to the original – I’m not going to tell you which one I prefer!!!
(Image from : http://www.lynn-shepherd.com/wp-content/themes/lynnshepherd/media/uk_cover_medium.jpg)

"The Billionaire’s Curse" by Richard Newsome

2010-05-25T09:39:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley
Book one in a trilogy introduces us to Gerald who inherits a fortune from his great-aunt Geraldine. He travels to England from Australia where he gets into all kinds of trouble. The book is full of humour, suspense and has a dramatic plot, which includes murder.

With the help of his new-found friends, the Valentine twins, they decide to solve the mystery of the casket. Their detective work takes them on an exciting and inspiring adventure. From the tunnels of the British Museum to the English countryside, where they meet with British aristocracy. The book is an easy read, entertaining and very intriguing. I cannot wait for the second book to hit the shelves later this year.

(Image from : http://textpublishing.com.au/static/files/assets/15e2dc39/9781921520570.jpg)

"Leviathan" by Scott Westerfeld, illustrated by Keith Thompson

2010-05-18T13:12:00.003+08:00

Review Mrs Hanham

I’m surprised we haven’t already reviewed this book by Scott Westerfeld, it is another great read by him. It is set at the beginning of the First World War within the genres of alternative history and steampunk!

The Germans have developed steam driven iron machines with guns called ‘Clanker’ and the British have employed fabricated animals and they are known as the ‘Darwinist’, amazing genetic engineering. Leviathan itself is a British whale warship, which is on a mission to Austria with Dr Barlow and her precious eggs. On board is Deryn, the young english girl who has joined the airservice disguised as a boy.

We still have the German and Austro-Hungarians against the British, with the assassination of Prince Aleksander’s parents, starting the war. Alek is forced to flee in a clanker with his father’s trusted friends Count Volger and Master Klopp. His clanker, is like a tank on long mechanical legs, like something out of Star Wars, in which they have to negotiate the Germans who are after the prince and escape to the mountains in Switzerland.

The story unfolds with two story lines taking place, that of Alek’s daring escape and how Deryn ends up on the Leviathan. Then it’s on to their meeting and can they help save each other from the Germans. Will they escape and to where? And what is to become of the precious eggs.

Leviathan has a few illustrations throughout the book which bring it to life, and these are wonderfully illustrated by Keith Thompson.

Just to let you know it is the first book in a trilogy, fantastic as I am anticipating two more great reads.
Have a look at Scott Westerfelds blog http://scottwesterfeld.com/blog/

(Image from : http://staffpicks.icpl.org/wp-content/themes/icpl/cover.php?isbn=9781416971733&size=lg)

"Crocodile Tears" by Anthony Horowitz

2010-05-11T09:40:00.005+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Alex Rider is trying to live life as a “normal teenager”, and has returned to his high school where only one friend is aware of his involvement with MI6. Alex lives with his carer and friend Jack and they are both keen for him to leave life with MI6 behind.
Journalist Harry Bulman is going to make this very difficult for Alex, Bulman has been researching Alex and his connection to MI6. Armed with information about previous missions , he confronts Alex with his plans to publish all he knows, in the media!
Alex and Jack head to MI6 headquarters, sure that they will receive the help they need to stop Bulman. MI6 will only assist if Alex will help them out and obtain information from Greenfields a GM crop facility, while on an upcoming school trip. Alex’s mission is to steal the sensitive information, without the knowledge of the Greenfields staff, his Teacher and school mates.
Everything does not go as planned and while he is obtaining the information he causes mayhem and is subsequently kidnapped and taken to Kenya. Where, the evil Desmond McCain will stop at nothing until Alex is dead. This looks like the end of the line for Alex!!! Will he succeed?
(Image from : http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4f/Crocodile_Tears_(novel).png/381px-Crocodile_Tears_(novel).png)

"Winter Song" by Jean-Claude Mourlerat

2010-05-03T10:53:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

A challenging and thought provoking book. In a world, which is dismal and lacking in joy, orphans are suddenly moved to boarding schools which resemble prisons. They are allowed comfort visits with 'consolers' only 6 times a year for a couple of hours at a time - and if they do not come back, a designated classmate is punished.
One day, two girls meet two boys from another boarding school. Then the world begins to change. First two, then two more teenagers escape. Their captors pursue them using vicious dog-men to hunt them down.
A secret resistance movement gives them refuge and it is here that they discover who they really are. It is a fight against tyranny. Can they survive and more so, can they win?
A book that keeps you gripped and one feels for the teenagers as they try to come to terms with their lives.

The ending is not quite as gripping as the rest of the book but still a great read.

(Image from : http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n58/n290427.jpg)

"Hunger" by Michael Grant

2010-04-27T11:42:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

This is actually quite a difficult review to write because this is a great read but… At last – the sequel to “Gone” (reviewed October 2009) has arrived in the library – and what a sequel it is. I have to say reading this book is not a warm fuzzy experience. In fact, on the back cover there is a ‘warning: contains scenes of cruelty and some violence’, which is quite justified – it’s a gripping read but has some fairly nasty scenes – think ‘Lord of the flies’ and you’ll be on the right track.

‘Hunger’ continues on from ‘Gone’ and takes the narrative in the direction of what is happening to the kids – more of them are developing strange powers. The rift between the town kids and the school kids continues and another, surprising, rift occurs. There is more information about the creature down the mine shaft and how the FAYZ occurred but lots of questions are unanswered (ready for the third book - “Lies”). “Hunger” is a fast paced, un-put-downable book but it is a bit horrible. I am, however, looking forward to reading the next one (sort of).

(Image from : http://www.bookgeeks.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Hunger.jpg)

Magazines for the guys

2010-04-19T13:24:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

Wheels
The car magazine for car enthusiasts of all ages. It has many interesting articles,
lots of pictures and they are not all about fast cars, although they do feature a lot.
It gives you reviews on the latest cars and a section called “Showroom” which has all the stats on the passenger cars in Australia.

Western Angler
Fishing anyone?. This magazine focuses on the fishing waters of Western Australia and has fantastic stories of the fish that didn’t get away. Find out what a ‘hoobegotcha bank’ is in the April/May edition.
A recipe features in each edition, a lovely fish dishes of course!
(Image from : http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3630/3677400267_bf322b78eb.jpg)

……. And for those computers buffs, check out PC Authority magazine….

Magazines for girls

2010-03-23T11:46:00.010+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham
Hey girls, check out these magazines we have in the Library. They can be borrowed overnight.

CURL
The surfing magazine for young women from New Zealand. It has fantastic photo shots with informative articles and update information of the surfing world. Along with beauty tips, fashion ideas and some girlie chat.

BELLA
Bella stands for “beautiful girl” and is designed for 13 to 19 year old girls. The magazine
is designed to encourage you to be the real you and not what the media wants you to be. Lots
of glossy pictures and relevant information on topics for you.

TEEN VOGUE
This glossy magazine focuses a lot on teen fashion, the clothes, the hair and the accessories and girlie matters, do I need to say more…….
Come in and borrow one today!

"Message in a bottle" by Valerie Zenatti

2010-03-15T12:34:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley.

Valerie Zenatti has written a thought provoking book which makes the reader query their own reactions should they be in the same situation.

After a suicide bomb attack on her local Jerusalem café, an Israeli schoolgirl decides to send a message to Gaza in a bottle. She is moved to think about others on the “other side”. It is almost an act of hope and desperation.

She is contacted by ‘Gazaman’ and a touching and supportive relationship develops between the two of them, despite the history and politics that divide them. This is a fascinating account between two young people via email. Both feel trapped in their situations and a story of love across a ‘war zone’ develops.

I strongly recommend this book. It is a quick, easy read and keeps the reader’s attention from page one.
(Image from : http://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n53/n265364.jpg)

"Liar", by Justine Larbelestier

2010-03-09T10:58:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

If you want to read a book that keeps you guessing to the last page and beyond, this is it. Liar is the story of Micah who comes from a family of liars and is a clever liar herself – or is she?

Micah’s friend/boyfriend Zach is found murdered in the park and Micah either knows all about it or, possibly, knows nothing at all. The narrative is in three sections, each separated by a black page, and each with a different set of events. The twists and turns in this book make it ‘unputdownable’, I read it in one sitting and then spent much of the night working out what happened. This is a must read. If you want further intrigue, go on the net and read the story of the book’s American cover – it’s really interesting to see the original cover and find out why it was changed. So far, this is my ‘book of the year’.
Mrs Hart

(Image from : http://meanjin.com.au/static/files/assets/ae2b1742/resized_9781741758726_224_297_FitSquare.jpg)

"Forbidden Doors - Dark Power Collection" by Bill Myers

2010-03-02T09:22:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Siblings, Rebecca and Scott have moved with their mother from Brazil, returning to California after the sudden death of their father. Not being familiar with life in a consumer and image driven society just “fitting in” without adding being the new kids at school, is turning out to be tough.
Things really become interesting when both of them, in different situations, stand up to the mysterious and dark happenings in their new town. Rebecca is facing some truly evil characters who have it in for her . Never imagining that someone could devise such a hateful plan against her, how will Rebbecca survive and cope? Will good triumph over evil?

Read the novel to see how Rebecca and Scott cope.

(Image from : http://image.ebook30.com/data_images/2009/09/22/1253618971-41xxaey6vjl.jpg)

"Ingo" by Helen Dunmore

2010-02-23T10:58:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

Cornwall the home of King Arthur, Merlin and the mystery of the sea. Are there really mer people in the sea?

For Sapphire (Sappy) and her brother Conor who live in Cornwall, right on the coast life is wonderful, especially as it is school holidays.
Their father is a fisherman who tells of stories of mer people and sings of a place called Ingo.
He loves the sea whereas their Mum never swims and tells them never to go down to the cove alone, she makes them promise.

Then after midsummer the father disappears, feared drowned in a boating accident. The mother has to go to work to maintain the family, so the children are left alone. First Sappy couldn’t find Connor and she goes looking for him, only to see him at the cove but he is with someone. He shouldn’t be there. Who was he with?

The next morning after breakfast, Sappy again cannot find Connor and she heads for the cove. She doesn’t find Connor at the cove but Faro, a merman! She is then introduced to the underwater world of ‘Ingo’.

You will have to read the book to find out if their father did die and what happens to Connor and Sappy. Will they succumb to the mer world??

Ingo is also on the 2010 WAYRBA list.

(Image from : http://www.harpercollins.com/harperimages/isbn/large/4/9780060818524.jpg)

“Viking girl” by Pauline Chandler

2010-02-11T12:18:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Yurisich our guest reviewer.

Beren is 15 and Queen of her Viking people – a small group who have survived battles and whom she has led to live near their enemies – the Saxons.
Set in the ninth century in England this is a tale of intrigue, fighting, and Beren desperately carving out a safe place for her people.
She has to work out who her true friends are and who are her enemies and she is surprisingly good at hand-to-hand combat!
Will she remain Queen of her people? Will they surrender to the Saxons? What part does her Uncle play in all this? Read it and find out!

(Image from : ttp://img1.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n45/n228413.jpg)

"Teen Inc" by Srefan Petrucha

2009-12-09T08:13:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

A loving family – mother , father, and their young son Jaiden, are literally blown apart by a faulty household item produced by NECorp. The accident leaves Jaiden an orphan.

As a result of the tragedy NECorp are desperate to avoid a scandal and the possibility of the company folding due to bad publicity. This results in Jaiden being adopted by the company NECorp and being raised by a series of “suits” (corporate employees).

Jaiden is a teenager who is questioning some of NECorps decisions and is paying attention to controversial news in the press regarding NECorp!

Will Jaiden be able to uncover the truth about NECorp’s activities and the controversy of polluted water? Is there any thing to be concerned about with the mercury reading in the water? Are the mercury readings accurate? What is Jaiden able to do, when he had been grounded inside the corporation building? Will Jaiden find information that will bring the demise of the company and end his friends and carers careers?

Read ‘Teen Inc’ to find out.

"The night they stormed Eureka" by Jackie French

2009-12-02T08:28:00.003+08:00

Review by Mrs Hanham

Jackie French is such an amazing writer, I just love her stories and this one does not disappoint.
This historical novel is set on the Ballarat goldfields obviously at the time of the Eureka Stockade. Sam (Samantha) has runaway from her alcoholic, abusive family and has found refuge at the cemetery. It is here that she is transported back to 1854.

Here she meets Mr and Mrs Puddleham who run the ‘cook shop’ out at the diggings and hope to make their fortune. Sam becomes their adopted daughter and finds warmth and love from this intriguing couple. She also befriends George who has an Irish father and an Aboriginal mother which gives Sam an insight into racial prejudices of the time. There is no
schooling for George.

Sam finds that life on the goldfields is not always good, as the miners experience corrupt officials and brutal soldiers. She finds herself caught up in the Eureka Stockade which changes her life .

(Image from : http://rgr-static1.tangentlabs.co.uk/images/ar/97807322/9780732285418/0/0/plain/night-they-stormed-eureka.jpg)

"Back Home" by Michelle Magorian

2009-11-23T09:18:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

Towards the end of the Second World War, Rusty Dickinson returns to Devon having lived in America for 5 years, away from the bombs and the despair that war brings. Her family in America were large and bohemian. Rusty finds returning to England and her own family lonely. She does not know her mother very well and struggles to settle down to her new life.

The family moves to Guildford and her unhappiness increases when she is sent to boarding school for the first time. Her grandmother is hostile and anti-American and her teachers and class mates think she is a rebel.

Rusty meets a boy, Lance who was also evacuated to America and together they form a friendship through their loneliness and desire to be accepted. Lance settles down quickly and this causes jealousy on Rusty’s part. They meet in the woods nearly every night and teach each other different skills.

Rusty’s father arrives out of the blue and there is immediate conflict between the two. His ideas are old-fashioned and chauvinistic. Eventually Rusty decides to run away to America. Is she prepared to leave her family behind?

This is a warm-heartening book that will pull at your heart strings. By the same author as ‘Goodnight Mister Tom’ - a must read.
(Image from : http://img.flipkart.com/bk_imgs/071/9780140319071.jpg)

"Tunnels" by Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams

2009-11-16T09:34:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

Will Burroughs lives in London with his eccentric father, his obsessive sister and his fairly vacant mother. He loves going on archaeological digging expeditions with his father to find pieces of history and ancient artifacts. One day his father mysteriously disappears and Will is determined to find him. In his search, he finds that under the town are tunnels and shafts that lead into another world. A world where people live never having seen the sun and where people aren’t the only inhabitants. The underground world is extensive, dark and very secretive. The last thing the inhabitants want is to be found out and they will take desperate measure to remain hidden.
This is an intriguing read with a dark, musty atmosphere. It is quite chilling. The sequel should be interesting – especially with its title (“Deeper”) – the library has both.

(Image from : http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n48/n244625.jpg)

"Escape from Shadow Island" by Paul Adam

2009-11-09T10:58:00.005+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

A fantastic adventure! Max Cassidy is a unique teen who in his spare time performs as an escapologist. Max is able to regurgitate items!! Sounds disgusting, doesn't it? Max's father was murdered and his mother has been charged and found guilty of his murder. After spending several years in prison in Santa Domingo, Max’s mother is serving the remainder of her prison sentence in an English prison.

Determined to see his mother freed from jail, Max sets out to prove that she is innocent. In order to do this he returns to the small village of Santa Domingo where he finds himself imprisoned in the corrupt town.
How will Max escape? Has he been able to discover any information that will bring him closer to seeing his mother freed from jail? Read the novel to find out!
(Image from : http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n64/n324791.jpg)

"Life is so good" by George Dawson

2009-11-04T11:12:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

Growing up in an apartheid era I was able to identify with this book. George Dawson, a slave’s grandson who learned to read at the age of 98 years. The book reflects on his life and gives the reader some excellent life lessons. His outlook on life and work is inspiring and one realises that with humility life can be good. He gives a firsthand view of America during the twentieth century. The book is sad at times as he had a hard life. George never gave up his dream of learning to read and write. He died at the age of 103 years. The book jumps around a little which can put some readers off. I encourage you to read this book as there are many, many great life lessons to be learnt.
(Image from http://www.abc.net.au/rn/arts/atoday/images/Life_is_So_Good_m121573.jpg)

"Third Transmission" by Jack Heath

2009-10-26T15:16:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

Third Transmission is so action packed and keeps you guessing as to what will happen next – fantastic!!. This is the third book in the series and hopefully not the last….. Agent Six of Hearts is a superhuman 16 year old who works for ‘The Deck’, the paid law enforcing agency of the futuristic society.
You should read the previous novels so you don’t miss out on any of the gripping storyline, that’s ‘The Lab’ and ‘Remote Control’ (reviewed Nov18, 2008).

Third transmission starts with Six on a mission to steal a dangerous canister containing a weapon form of the SARS virus. It is amazing that he survives being torpedoed to a huge battleship were the virus is being prepared to be fired by the evil group Chaosonic. Time is crucial but he is too late, someone has taken the canisters.

Six needs some medical treatment after the mission and the appealing Ace of Diamonds is there to fix him up. Is Six actually falling in love?

A nuclear bomb, the last one in existence has disappeared and scientist Chemal Allich has developed a machine that can transport matter from one place to another, are the two connected ? Six is on his next mission to find the nuclear bomb. While on this mission he discovers that the machine is in fact a time machine which may explain how someone got the SARS virus before him.

Then we catch up with Nai, Six’s sister, who is still very anti Six and brother Kyntak, as she views they are working for the enemy. She doesn’t rescue Six this time.

And then there is the evil Vanish who has infiltrated ‘The Deck’. Can Six piece it all together before it is too late?

(Image from http://www.showtell.com.au/act/images/authors/books/third_transmission.jpg)

"Gone" by Michael Grant

2009-10-19T10:31:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

This is a very exciting book – another one that I couldn’t put down. In the beginning it is a bit like “Time of the Reaper” by Andrew Butcher because it starts off with all the adults disappearing, leaving all the teenagers (up to fifteen) and young children behind, from here the plot goes in a very different direction. It all takes place in a small Californian town which gets totally cut off from the outside world. The action is concentrated in a small area so you get to know the characters and the setting really well. Some of those characters are developing interesting powers (and not all of them are human). Some of the teenagers are violent, gangs form, and the weak get manipulated. The whole time you are reading you wonder what on earth is going on and there are only a few clues. The scariest bit is what happens when you turn fifteen and disappear. The kids all have various theories about this but then they record it actually happening and play it back in slow motion – they find something quite horrifying…I can’t wait for the sequel.

(Image from : http://www.newsshopper.co.uk/resources/images/893335/?type=display)

"3 Willows" by Ann Brashares

2009-10-12T12:47:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

3 Willows is a fabulous read following the journey of three teens, Polly, Jo and Ama, who are about to head off to high school.

Polly, Jo and Ama have been friends since they were in grade three. Now they are teenagers, their interests, focus and more importantly their friendship is changing. Each of them is doing something different during their holidays, Ama is off on a trek, and surprisingly she becomes separated from the main group. Jo is endeavouring to fit in with the new cool crowd, and meets a guy she is very keen on. Polly is finding things are changing for her in more ways than one! Will their friendship survive, or have they out grown each other?

A great read, but am a little puzzled as to why Brashares needed to refer to her other novel ‘The sisterhood of the travelling pants’, as it doesn’t add to the story at all. Highly recommend this novel.

"A walk to remember " by Nicholas Sparks

2009-09-21T13:55:00.003+08:00

REVIEWED BY MRS BATLEY.

A wonderful and sensitive love story. The author begins his book by promising that first you smile, and then you cry …………….

This is a story about 2 young people growing up in Morehead City, North Carolina. It is a story of their first love.

Landon Carter, popular, good-looking and president of the student body has just broken up with his girlfriend. He needs a date to the homecoming dance. Landon decides to invite Jamie Sullivan, a minister’s daughter. She carries a Bible and believes that life happens according to the Lord’s plan. She is not your typical high school student.

Both Jamie and Landon appear in the school Christmas play and get to know each other over this period of time. Landon starts to like Jamie and he falls for her true beauty.

With many twists and turns they fall in love. The story lets you believe that dreams do come true and in the power of love. It is a wonderful book and you will find yourself shedding tears.

A book not to be missed.
Image from : http://www.np.edu.sg/lib/announce/top20archive/top%2020%20may/pics/media/a%20walk%20to%20remember.jpg

"The two pearls of wisdom" by Alison Goodman

2009-09-14T10:23:00.005+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

I want to rave about this book – it is superb – beautifully written, exciting and intricate. I loved it. It is a rich fantasy set in China where dragons protect the land. Dragon masters train for years in order to interact and guide their dragons and Eon very much wants to be a master but there is a huge problem – she is a girl and only boys can become dragon masters, if her secret was known – she would die.
Still in disguise, Eon is drawn into the world of rulers, wealth and power. There are enemies as well as friends and she has to find her place in very dangerous circumstance. I can’t wait for the sequel. You have to read this – its fabulous.

(Image from : http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n53/n265947.jpg)

“The knife of never letting go” by Patrick Ness

2009-09-07T08:55:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Yurisich

“The first thing you find out when yer dog learns to talk is that dogs don’t got nothing much to say. About anything.”

What an intriguing opening sentence! This is a very different book. The main character –Todd Hewitt is the last boy in Prentisstown. In this world you can hear all thoughts of all the living creatures around you all the time and they call it noise. Imagine if that were so – it would be awful – and it is. People have to hide private thoughts very deeply under the noise of other thoughts which is not easy.
In Prentisstown, Todd is only a month away from his thirteenth birthday when he will become a man – there is no one younger than him in the town, and there are no women in the town. When they settled in the region they fought against the Spackle (aliens) who released the noise germ which killed all the women and changed men so they could hear everyone’s thoughts.
Todd is not looking forward to becoming a man – and goes for a walk in the bush with his dog and there he encounters a hole in the noise, a place of quiet. He comes back into town to ask his carers about this when all hell breaks loose, and suddenly Todd is on the run.
What is the quiet Todd has run into? Why is he sent on his way with provisions by his carers urgently? What will happen to him on his journey? Why are the men of Prentisstown chasing him? What is the truth?A five star book for me, one I could not put down literally – kept me reading until midnight

(Image from : http://library.scotch.vic.edu.au/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/knife.jpg)

"Remembering Raquel" by Vivien Vande Velde

2009-08-31T09:37:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

This a fantastic, quirky book. Remembering Raquel opens with Raquel’s death and is being discussed by Vanessa, a former classmate of the deceased teen. Vanessa comments “It’s amazing how much dying can do for a girl’s popularity” (Vande Velde 2007 p1) .

Each chapter is written from a different persons perspective and their involvement in Raquel’s life. As the story progresses we learn of her life, the incident of her death and the impact on those she knew. By the end of the novel you have a sense of having know Raquel .
A great read, gives a humorous insight into the awkwardness felt by those grieving and coping with the loss of a loved one or acquaintance.

Image from : (http://www.vivianvandevelde.com/images/bookcovers//tn_Remembering%20Raquel%20book%20listing.jpg)

"The Brimstone Project" by Tom Sniegoski

2009-08-24T08:47:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

The Brimstone Network is made up of people that fight against dark powers. At the beginning of the book Elijah Stone and his agents are killed. Bram Stone, 13 years old is taught how to fight and get over his fear of his own powers by the monks. He has the ability to turn invisible and pass through objects.

A strange, powerful and superhuman creature called Mr Stitch goes to find Bram. Bram packs his things and together the two fight the dark forces. The story has lots of intrigue, twists and keeps one sitting on the edge of one’s chair. The book is a great read, fabulous and I cannot wait for the second book to come out.

Image from : (http://www.sniegoski.com/brimstone/brimstone.html)

"Shadow web" by N.M Browne.

2009-08-17T09:03:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

At first glance this book looks just like another alternative universe story and while it is, it also made me very thoughtful about the type of alternative universe depicted. Jess, a fairly typical teenager changes places with Jessica but in Jessica’s world, World War 1 and 2 never happened.

You may be thinking that sounds like a great world but in this novel, one of the major benefits of these wars also doesn’t happen. I know that sounds like an odd thing to write – the benefits of a war but in World War 1 and 2, many women had to work outside the home in jobs that were traditionally the reserve of men. This has had a direct impact on the role of women in our world and had resulted in more equality and freedom for women. In this novel, in Jessica’s alternative world, women aren’t free. They have to be chaperoned wherever they go and are subject to sexual harassment all the time. There are other plot and character twists but this aspect in the one I have been thinking about – long after the book was finished.

Image from : http://www.nmbrowne.com/images/nmbrowne_books_20.jpg

"Kat got your tongue" by Lee Weatherly

2009-08-10T10:16:00.004+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hanham

Kathy runs in front of car, but is not seriously injured, she just cannot remember who she is!!! Dr Perrin, the psychologist, says her memory should return, but as time goes on her amnesia continues.
Now called “Kat” which she likes better than the “Kathy” she can’t remember.
Kat tries to rebuild her life but her old friends at school are not interested in being her friend, in fact they are downright hostile towards her. Poppy and Jade think she is just faking it to avoid the truth about what she did to Tina.
What did happen? The story unravels cleverly with the author having Kat and Kathy telling their story, building to a fine ending.

Does Kat regain her memory? You will have to read the book to find out.

Image from : ( http://www.bennett.com.au/cms/awards/images/Kat%20got%20your%20tongue.bmp)

"Zeelah Green, Queen of clean" by Vanessa Curtis

2009-08-03T09:05:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

I wasn’t sure that ‘Zeelah Green, Queen of clean’ was going to be a book that I would enjoy when I first picked it up, but I soon discovered how wrong I was.

Zeelah is obsessed! Trying to live life without touching anyone or anything is quite impossible, Zeelah has OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) and is seriously freaked out with germs and keeping herself clean and germ free. Some of her behaviours include washing her hands and face until the skin is red, and sometimes, even bleeding. Enduring a bus ride to school is only possible by placing a clean sheet of paper between herself and the seat.

At home Zeelah’s obsessive behaviour is grating on her stepmother and in the absence of her father, Zeelah is taken to ‘Forest Hill House’ a special facility for teens with issues. It is through Zeelah’s eyes that we learn of several of the other residents and their problems, from self harm through to anorexia.

This novel takes you on a sometimes funny, heartfelt and sad journey. A great read!

(Image from : http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ahDATmwAL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)

"Just Henry" by Michelle Magorian

2009-07-27T09:33:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

The novel ‘Just Henry’ revolves around the life of Henry and is written with purpose and intent and one becomes part of Henry’s life from the first pages of the book. The author allows the reader to get involved with all aspects of his life such as family, friends and his macro-environment. It is a very uplifting novel, and despite the difficulties that war presents there is a feeling that life can be good despite the setbacks one may encounter. It is a story of family, friendship and hope. One realises that ambitions and dreams are important and that one must hold them dear. I strongly encourage all to read this book as it is good for the soul.

(Image from : http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2009/1/5/1231175584537/Just-Henry-by-Michelle-Ma-002.jpg)

“Starfish sisters” by J.C Burke

2009-07-20T09:08:00.005+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

This is set in the world of girls competitive surfing. Four girls: Georgie; Ace; Kia and Micki are all staying in the same dorm at a surfing training camp. Two of them are friends but the others are almost strangers. They are all thrown together and have to find ways to get on while competing for a place in the Australian Junior Team. They are all very different and their expectations of each other slowly change as they get to know each other. Each one seems to have issues that they have to deal with and as the weeks go on they find ways of dealing with each other and helping each other come to terms with life. If you are into books about bonding and surfing – you will love this.

(Image from : http://www.randomhouse.com.au/systempicts/9781741661552.jpg)

“Five on Kirrin Island” by Enid Blyton

2009-06-23T09:34:00.005+08:00

(A bookclub review)
By C.T. (Student)

The famous five series is an amazing adventure series about 4 children called Anne, Georgia (George for short), Julian, and Dick.
Now you may be thinking what about the extra character but he is the dog - Timothy.
This small group of children and the dog go around on adventures and on the way they solve mysteries.
This is an absolutely Awesomistic series that I just couldn’t put down - you can really relate to the characters being of a similar age. This is a book that any person boy or girl, young or old can read.

(Image from: http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2008/03/24/famous_five_old_narrowweb__300x481,0.jpg)

“Being” by Kevin Brooks

2009-06-23T09:26:00.002+08:00

(A bookclub review)
By Josh Robinson (Student)

This is a great book to read it is full of twists throughout the book, and is about a boy named Robert Smith aged 16 - who goes into surgery one afternoon.
The doctors put a fiberoptics tube down his throat and finds out he is no ordinary 16 year old boy because they find all sorts of plastics and metal inside of him.
After the surgery is completed Robert is still unconscious and he can see and listen while he is still unconscious and is trying to workout what they are saying – then, amazingly when he is fully awake he runs away trying to figure out what he is.
Who is Robert Smith? Why are people after him? Read this exciting book to find out!

(Image from: http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n39/n197497.jpg)

“The Atonement Child” by Francine Rivers.

2009-06-23T09:23:00.002+08:00

(A bookclub review)

Reviewed by Erin (Student)

Imagine if your life was shattered with in minutes ,seconds, hours, days. For Dynah Carey this was the case. Walking home one night she was raped and fell pregnant. Her fiancée has left her, room mate not sure what to do, her parents trying to do what’s best for her, all determined to make her loose the child ALL try to make her have an abortion. But against all the wishes of her friends and family she keeps the child.
Throughout this book Dynah Battles to see what is right and wrong in the sights of the Lord. A truly magical story on following your heart’s wishes and God’s desires.
A must read book for every mother, daughter and woman.

(image from: http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n23/n116879.jpg)

"Stormbreaker" by Anthony Horowitz

2009-06-17T12:09:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

Fourteen-year-old Alex Rider has his world turned upside down when his uncle, Ian Rider is killed under mysterious circumstances. Alex is recruited by MI6 and becomes a superspy. He is trained by the SAS and finds himself on his first mission to save the world.
The book is full of action, adventure, suspense and has a real “James Bond” feel to it. It is the first book in the Alex Rider series. I highly recommend this book as it it keeps one’s attention from the first page. I suggest that the books are read in chronological order which enables the reader to enjoy the journey with Alex. However, this is not a must. Grab a chocolate, cup of coffee and be prepared for an afternoon of great reading!

(http://www.booknews.co.za/images/news/stormbreaker.gif)

"The museum of Mary Child" by Cassandra Golds

2009-06-16T14:18:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Yurisich

Here we have a story which really should begin with "once upon a time...".

It is set in a time before cars and computers, Heloise lives with her godmother in a cottage next door to a museum from which they make a living. Her godmother is convinced play is a "waste of time" as are many other activities, so Heloise lives a dull, hardworking life.

Heloise soon begins to think for herself, and when her godmother discovers this she is furious and Heloise decides to run away.

Now fortune is smiling on Heloise, some birds from The Society of the Caged Birds of the City help her and she is taken in by a lovely old lady who looks after other orphan girls - twelve altogether, and this is a happy household.

The reader sees a new and wondrous world now through the eyes of Heloise as she discovers so many things others take for granted - this is a delightful journey.

But she also is led to a young man, in a prison cell by the birds again and wants to help.

Will she? What can she do? Will he solve the riddle of who her mother is?

Read the rest of this lovely, lyrical fantasy novel to find out.

(Image from: http://www.penguin.com.au/jpg-large/9780143304142.jpg)

“The Tomorrow Code” by Brian Falkner

2009-06-12T10:24:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

Crack the code-or tomorrow is history...

Teens, Tane and Rebecca are great mates with a zest for life and adventure.

They begin receiving coded messages from the future, sent by themselves, warning of impending doom for society. They set out to crack the coded messages and embark on action to prevent disaster. The coded messages range from the winning lottery numbers, curcuit information, and warnings.
This sci fi thriller will have you wondering… Why do they need to purchase a submarine? What is the mysterious mist that appears to engulf people and leave only their clothing? Can Tane and Rebecca solve each puzzle in time and change the outcome of the future?

(Image from: http://www.walkerbooks.com.au/statics/dyn/1218590828602.jpeg)

"The hunger games" by Suzanne Collins

2009-06-12T10:08:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

This book is absolutely superb. My personal rating would be a ‘wow – must read’.
It’s set in the future in a bleak society where there are many regions of people.

In the coal producing area - District 12, Katniss Everdeen lives with her younger sister and her dysfunctional mother. Their region is very poor and they survive on the wildlife Katniss hunts. Once a year there is a huge live reality show televised across all the districts – the hunger games. Twelve girls and twelve boys are chosen by lottery from all the districts and they must fight to the death – there can only be one survivor. Katniss’ younger sister is chosen and Katniss volunteers to take her place.
I read this book very quickly as I couldn’t put it down. It’s full of suspense and poignancy – beautifully written and a real thriller. I’ve just ordered more copies for the library.

(Image from: http://keris.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83451956869e2011278dc160828a4-800wi)

“Shrapnel” by Robert Swindells

2009-06-05T10:20:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Yurisich

Set in the Second World War, here is a story which reads like a ‘boys own adventure’.
Gordon is thirteen and lives with his Mum and Dad. His older brother Raymond has left home and noone knows where he is.
One day after school Gordon comes across Raymond at a milk bar and asks where he’s been. Raymond tells Gordon he is working undercover for the British Government setting up a defence army in case the Germans ever invade Britain. Gordon is fascinated and wants to be part of this secret army. Raymond agrees and tells him someone will contact him soon and “give him his orders”.
Sure enough he is contacted and soon he is keeping secrets from his family and friends, but is he really working for the government? Why isn’t he allowed to tell anyone, and what are they doing with the flying model plane he keeps sending over a fence as instructed?
A quick read which keeps you turning the pages – an adventure where you ask yourself – what makes a hero?

“A new kind of dreaming” by Anthony Eaton

2009-06-05T10:06:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley
Set in the outback this is a book about intrigue, mystery and hidden secrets.

Jamie Riley is sent by the court to Port Barren which surprises him as he had expected to go to prison like his brother. He is hosted by an old man Archie who is not very sociable. Jamie makes friends as well as enemies. The police sergeant bullies Jamie and does everything in his power to frame Jamie for crimes he has not committed. As Jamie makes friends with Cameron and settles into life at Port Barren he discovers there is more to the town and the people than meets the eye.

Together with Cameron they reveal the dark secrets of the past. The book is an easy read, captivating ones attention from page one and filled with lots of intrigue. I highly recommend this book.

(Image from:http://www.alc-online.com/alc/catalogue/catalogue/mp_entries/1121654818.49/CoverLarge/A%20New%20Kind%20of%20Dreaming%20big.jpg)

“Jamie at home – Cook your way to the good life” By Jamie Oliver

2009-05-27T15:33:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

More than simply a cook book full of delicious recipes, this Jamie Oliver recipe book is set out according to the seasons. Full of information ranging from how to make a simple barbecue, battery hens and their treatment, to growing your own produce. Many of the stunning photographs of mouth watering images make you want to head straight for the kitchen to start cooking (and eating…of course!!!) . I can’t wait to try some of the recipes. This is a wonderful book to browse through.

(image from: http://lartculinaire.files.wordpress.com/2008/07/51sq4ssy2bdl__sl500_.jpg)

The two pearls of wisdom by Alison Goodman

2009-05-12T10:24:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

I want to rave about this book – it is superb – beautifully written, exciting and intricate. I loved it. It is a rich fantasy set in China where dragons protect the land. Dragon masters train for years in order to interact and guide their dragons and Eon very much wants to be a master but there is a huge problem – she is secretly a girl and only boys can become dragon masters, if her secret was known – she would die.
Still in disguise, Eon is drawn into the world of rulers, wealth and power. There are enemies as well as friends and she has to find her place in very dangerous circumstance. I can’t wait for the sequel. You have to read this – its fabulous.

(Image from: http://www.books4bookworm.com/wp-includes/images/the-two-pearls-of-wisdom.jpg)

"A little love song" by Michelle Magorian

2009-04-28T14:41:00.005+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Yurisich

A delightful story of two sisters set in 1943. They are moved from London to Salmouth - a seaside village - for the summer.

Rose is seventeen and Diana is twenty. War is raging and Rose and Diana find themselves alone in a cottage on the cliffs for the summer.

Rose loves it - the freedom, making friends, the beach and the mysterious locked room in the cottage to which she eventually gains entry.

The prize of this room is an amazing diary written by the previous tenant - Miss Hilda. Rose reads it and is fascinated by the story told - a story which intrudes into her own life in a very real way!

A very satisfying read, this story has a sense of adventure, madness, betrayal, love and friendship all told by Michelle Magorian - who wrote "Goodnight Mister Tom" - another war-time story well worth reading.

I highly recommend it!

(Image from: http://www.meettheauthor.co.uk/uploads/images/uk9781405239554.jpg)

Right behind you by Gail Giles

2009-04-09T10:46:00.002+08:00

RIGHT BEHIND YOU. AUTHOR – GAIL GILES.

Kip McFarland at nine years old sets his seven year old neighbour on fire over a silly baseball glove. The boy dies after three days and Kip is sent to a juvenile detention. On his release the family move and change their names. Many people, especially the young boy who died parents’ want revenge and Kip’s family’s house is burnt down, the father chased etc.

The book has a very dramatic start, describing events about the death of his mother, the accident, his time in juvenile detention and Kip not talking while undergoing treatment in the detention centre.

The book focuses on Kip who is now known as Wade. In his new “life” he is a star swimmer, loyal friend and good-looking. Everyone thinks he has the perfect life. He is however, living a frightening and painful secret. Kip/Wade is a child murderer and what happens when your past keeps catching up with you? The book raises many issues such as rage, redemption, guilt, forgiveness and lastly acceptance.

While reading the book, one feels the turmoil of Kip/Wade’s journey and his experiences. Wade grew and transformed through the book, despite never being able to erase what he had done.

The book is a powerful in the sense that it grips you from the beginning. It is an easy read with many twists. There are no clear-cut answers but the book gives one a lot of food for thought. I strongly recommend this book and give it 9 out of 10.

Mrs Batley.

The Resistance by Gemma Malley

2009-03-30T10:15:00.007+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hollingsworth

The resistance, is the second book in the series by Gemma Malley, 'The Declaration' being the first in the series.

Anna and Peter are no longer considered surpluses and are now legal. Together they are living in London. Anna takes care of her baby brother Ben during the day, while Peter works at the 'Longevity' factory, Pincent Pharma, owned by his controlling grandfather. Peter is still active with the resistance organisation and hopes to gain valuable information while working at the loathed Pincent Pharma. All is not as it first appears for either Anna or Peter. Peter is under pressure from his grandfather to sign documents declaring that he will 'opt out', something he is resistant to because he and Anna would like to have children in the future.

While Peter is busy at Pincent Pharma, Anna continues to care for her baby brother Ben, and develops a friendship with a mature woman who appears to have similar views to Anna.

Who is this wonderfully friendly lady that Anna continues to meet with and share information with? Is Peter becoming sympathetic to the views of his grandfather and has he succumbed to the desire to take longevity and live forever? What will become of their dream of having children? Read this fantastic sequel to find out. You will not be able to put the novel down!

Image from: http://www.allenandunwin.com/BookCovers/resized_9780747587736_224_297_FitSquare.jpg

“A spy has no friends” by Ronald Seth

2009-03-27T09:06:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Yurisich

“A spy has no friends” is the autobiography of Ronald Seth who was trained as a British agent and sent to Estonia during the second world war to work under cover and organise resistance against the Nazis.
All did not go to plan – in fact it couldn’t have gone much worse - when he parachuted into Estonia, waiting for him to land was a group of men with rifles. Due to their incompetence Seth was able to escape into the nearby forest, and managed to evade the enemy for days. Going without food soon forced him to seek help from the locals and he was quickly betrayed to the enemy.
Thus began a long time of imprisonment in the most degrading conditions, with interrogations frequently thrown in. Seth decided to try to convince the Nazis that he was a sympathizer with the thought in mind that he could become that most dangerous of creatures – a double agent. There follows many close shaves when they nearly catch him out in his lies, but he actually manages to join the Luftwaffe Intelligence!
I will leave you to find out what else happens in this fascinating tale of hardship, endurance and courage. My only complaint is that Seth does ramble on a bit sometimes – but the fact that this is a true story kept me reading to the end.

(Image from: http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51bGqTHqWFL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)

Just Listen by Sarah Dessen

2009-03-20T09:12:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

What should you do when your friends at school won’t talk to you and talk about you behind your back; when life at home is difficult and one of your sisters is falling apart. The only one who is there for you is a boy you don’t know who is trying to get over his own problems…Meet Annabel, the youngest of three sisters who seem to have it all – they are all beautiful models, have great friends and a happy home life – or do they…things aren’t always what they seem. This is a fabulous read. I got deeply involved in the story and characters. Its about relationships, tensions, family dynamics, having to do the right thing and getting through tough times that really aren’t your fault. It’s a romance, a family story and also a teenage angst novel that is absolutely brilliant. I highly recommend it.

"Just listen" is another book in this year's West Australian Young Readers' Book Award so if you read it make sure you vote on it.

(Image from: http://wirelessdigest.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/2007/12/17/justlisten.jpg)

Finding Darcy by Sue Lawson

2009-03-10T08:33:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Batley

The story revolves around young Darcy Abbott who’s life is turned upside down when her mum moves to Melbourne for three months to study. Darcy has to stay with Misery and Batty, the names she calls her granny and great-grandmother.

New school, friends, living conditions and Darcy has to adapt in more ways than one. She encounters bullying, good friends and discovers more about her family than she imagined.

Finding Darcy is a great read. It is easy to follow and one is able to identify with Darcy and her woes. All the characters contribute to the story positively and one can relate to them in different ways.

Finding Darcy is in the West Australian Young Reader’s Book Award. Come upstairs and vote for the book. How about perusing the exhibit of Young Reader’s Book Award.

(image from http://www.bdb.com.au/images/books/large/300dpi/finding_darcy.jpg)

The Declaration by Gemma Malley

2009-03-03T13:31:00.003+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Hart

This is a world where, because of drug breakthroughs, no one ever dies. As no one ever dies, the population has to stop growing and no children can be born. If they are, they are surplus – unwanted, users of resources they are not entitled to and a complete waste of time and space. The only thing they can do to redeem themselves is to work and make themselves useful.
Anna lives in Grange Hall, a home for the surplus. She is lucky, the authorities found her early so she has had years of training to be useful. She hates her irresponsible parents for having a child, she is determined to be the best worker she can be in order to make up for her existence. Then she meets Peter, who comes from the outside world….
This is a fascinating read about a dark society where values are turned upside down. I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the sequel “The resistance” which is also in the library.

(Image from http://www.lovereading4kids.co.uk/books/covers/12/The_declaration_jkt.jpg)

Princess Academy by Shannon Hale

2009-02-20T13:59:00.002+08:00

Reviewed by Mrs Yurisich

Miri is a young girl living in a remote mountain village. She helps her father with the traders who visit the village, while her sister goes out to the local quarry to work.

The priests in her country have worked out that the future bride for the Prince is living right now in her village, so just before winter, soldiers come into the village and collect all the girls including Miri. They are to be taken to an academy by the kings orders, and taught how to be a princess.

Miri is not impressed, and not at all keen to go, but she has to go , and during this delightful story she makes friends, discovers abilities she didn't know she had, and knowledge which will help her village. Then she meets the prince...

A great story, well told, with adventure and the possibilities of romance- everything a girl could want!

(Image from: http://images.amazon.com/images/P/074757636X.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg)