From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg

I think this is a really good book.  It is about Claudia and Jamie Kincaid, who run away to New York and stay in a museum.  This book tells about their adventures in the museum, and also has a mystery about the angel statue so many people are lining up to see.  This is a fantastic book.  I recommend it!
Elaina, Partin Elementary (Florida) Grade 5

I love mystery books like this.  I wish every book was like this.  I think this was the best book ever.  E. L. Konigsburg, I think is the best author in the world because of this book.  So I wish her good luck with her grandkids!
Blake, Rawlings (Florida) Grade 4

Letters from the Inside by John Marsden

This is a good book about two pen pals and how their relationship grows and then falls apart. I would highly recommend this book to advanced readers. They met through a magazine ad and grew to be best friends, but then the truth is revealed, the horrible truth.
Andrew, Bear Lake Elementary (Florida) Grade 4

Dicey's Song by Cynthia Voigt

This book is about a girl who has trouble growing up. Her mother is in a hospital in Boston & they (as in her 2 brothers & little sister) don't have a father. So they have to live with their grandmother. Will Dicey ever grow up to be a civilized person?
Cynthia, Eastbrook Elementary (Florida) Grade 5

A Child Called "It" by David Pelzer

This book is based on a true story. It's about a boy, Dave, who lived in a house with his mother & father. It was not a normal family. Dave was abused in every way. His mother called them "games". Dave had to play them or he would get in even more trouble. She put him in the bathroom with a bucket of ammonia and bleach. This is a sad story. The question here is, would you be able to survive it?
Lindsey, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7

Nothing but the Truth by Avi

It was a good book but confusing. Philip Mallory is a young boy in high school who gets in trouble for singing. The boy tells people & news reporters go to the school & all the teachers & the principal lie about the whole thing. It all becomes a gif mess. Is the truth really the truth?
Barbara, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 8

Wheels for Walking by Sandra Richmond

I really liked Wheels For Walking. It was a very sad and interesting book. The main character, Sally, was in a car accident while driving on a slick road. The doctors said she would never walk again. Then, in the hospital she meets a guy-friend. Can friendship really make you strong again? Well, you'll find out if you read Wheels For Walking.
Katie, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 8

I Thought You Were My Best Friend by Ann Reit

I enjoyed reading this book because it was an exciting and amazing story. The 2 main characters, Phoebe & Eve, shared everything and thought they could share Quent. But neither of them knew how badly it could hurt their relationship. Now just because of Quent their friendship will never be the same.
Nicole, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 8

The Girl Who Invented Romance by Caroline Cooney

This is about a girl who makes up the game called romance. She likes a boy named Will & she invites Will & all her friends over. She tells them how to play the game. Will they fall in love?
Amber, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7

Diary of a Frantic Kid Sister by Hila Colman

I thought this book was great because I, myself, am a frantic kid sister. I understand what she was going through.
Anonymous, Indian Trails Middle (Florida) Grade 6

I liked this story because it related very much to my life & had very good descriptive scenes. The main character, Sarah, has many difficulties being the kid sister in a family. She has trouble getting along with her teenage sister, Didi. Sarah, no matter how much she hates her sister, has to learn to get along. If not, she'll have trouble getting along living with her grandparents.
Melissa, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 8
 

Soup on Fire by Robert Newton Peck

This book is about Soup & his brother. They want to meet 2 stars from Hollywood, Fearless Ferguson & Bishop Zion Zeal. The 2 stars sell bubble bath. The boys get lost & their parents look for them. Will they find them so they can see their favorite stars? I enjoyed Soup & his family. This is a great book to read. I hope you want to read it too.
Tekia, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Hey, Dad, Get a Life by Todd Strasser

I enjoyed reading this book because it was a sad tearjerker story. The 3 main characters were 2 girls & their mother who had this idea that their father/husband was still alive. Is it possible to think someone has come back from the dead? Is it also possible to you to know that they are there with you everyday?
Tiffany, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

The Pearl by John Steinbeck

"The Pearl" was the most interesting book I have read. It was mainly about Kino & Coyotito who found a pearl. But robbers & bad things keep coming to get the pearl & they had to get rid of it. Will the pearl make them rich or not?
Kellyna, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7

I read this book for my book report. It is about a guy, Kino, who does not have a lot of money. His baby gets stung by a scorpion. Kino does not have enough money to get medicine for his child. One day he sees a huge oyster in the water. He dives into the water, opens it up & inside is a pearl as big as a seagulls egg. Should he use this pearl or throw it back? Find out by reading this book!
Alban, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

My Crazy Cousin Courtney by Judi Miller

This is a very funny book. The 2 main characters are very good friends & cousins. Courtney comes to stay with her cousin, Cathy. They had met when they were 5 years old but they don't remember each other. Cathy has no clue what Courtney looks like. Cathy lives in Beverly Hills & has a boyfriend who is going to Europe. When they pick up Courtney, she has on a hot pick shirt that reads "Kiss Me Quick" & lavender pants. They were playing a game & saw something. What was it? Was it a murder or was it their imagination? This book will make you cry or laugh. Read it & figure it out.
Hannah, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli

I thought this was a great exciting book. The kid, Maniac Magee, runs away from home & is sleeping in the buffalo part of the zoo. He runs into a girl & borrows a book from her. When he comes to give the book back, the dad invites him to live with them. But the family is black in a black neighborhood & the neighbors do not like that.
Kurt, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli is a very emotional book.  It is overflowing with happiness, sadness, and suspense.  I would give this book a 3 out of 5 starts.  I took away 2 because I don' tlike how his parents die or how Greyson dies.  For example, Greyson doesn't wake up 5 days after Christmas, and Maniac gets so unhappy/furious that he runs away again.  I recommend this book to anyone who likes stories that seem real, not too happy and not too sad.
David, Pres (Indiana) Grade 5

Makes Me Wanna Holler by Nathan McCall

This was about a black man growing up in a white world. As you read on the book goes on to tell you about the things in his way. Some examples of them would be that as a kid growing up in the hood, peer pressure ruled. He & friends got together & robbed a store & he spent 5 years in prison. But when he got out did he stop doing that sort of thing?
Jackie, Oviedo High (Florida) Grade 12

 

Fame and Glory in Freedom, Georgia by Barbara O'Connor

Fame and Glory in Freedom, Georgia is about a young girl who is in sixth grade.  Her name is Bird.  She always talks to her neighbor, Miss Delphine.  One day Bird found Harlem Tate who lives over the tattoo parlor with Mr. Moody.  Bird asked Harlem to be her partner for the spelling bee.  Harlem said, "okay".  Bird found out that he was a great speller by practicing words in the dictionary Miss Delphine gave her. 

Why doesn't Harlem live with his parents?  Read this sensational book to find out.  I prefer this book because it talks about friendship.  I recommend this book to anyone who likes valuable stories.
Chethani, Woodlands Elementary (Florida) Grade 4
 

Strider by Beverly Cleary

It's great.
Junior, Flec (Florida) Grade 6
 

Sharing Susan by Eve Bunting

Sharing Susan is about a 12 year old girl who is facing the most difficult moment in her life. She found out there was a birth mix-up & she is really some one else's child. On top of that, she also found out that her real parent's child died. Now, they want their real child back. She has to spend half a year with both sets of parents. It's a great story & of course I can't tell you the end!
Kaley, Circle Christian School (Florida) Grade 6
 

Absolutely Normal Chaos by Sharon Creech

This is a great book that keeps you reading until the end. It is about a girl named Mary Lou Finney & her big chaotic family. One summer her assignment from her English teacher was to write a journal. She thought it would be the most boring assignment in the world because she had the most boring summers. As it turns out, that summer was the most incredible, unbelievably exciting summer of her entire life. Read this book to find out more. I liked this book because it was funny & truthful about what is going on in a young adolescent girl's mind.
Lara, MacArthur Middle (Illinois) Grade 6

This is a hilarious book about Mary Lou Finney and her huge, loving, weird and embarrassing family!  She likes someone and her brothers' are always embarrassing her.  Her strange and quiet cousin comes to stay for the summer and she puts a note on his counter screaming "Maid service ends TODAY"!
Ella, Partin Elementary (Florida) Grade 5
 

A Place To Call Home by Jackie French Koller

I enjoyed & liked this book. The main characters were Anna & Mandy. Anna is 15 & comes home from school one day & her Mom isn't there. Where could her Mom be? Being at school all day is hard to take for Anna, but coming home from school & not knowing where her own mother is, is worse.
Cassandra, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

There's a Bat in Bunk 5 by Paula Danziger

I liked reading this book because it was very funny. The main characters were Marcey, Ted & Ginger. The book is about Marcy finding a bat in her bunk, but is it a real bat or a baseball bat?? How could they find out who put the bat in there?
Rachael, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery

This book is about a girl who is an orphan & moves to Green Gables with Marrhew & Marilla Curthbert. When she first got to the Curthbert house, they did not want her because she wasn't a boy. A little while after, they decided to let her stay.
Jenifer, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Born To Be Wild by Timothy Williams

I liked reading this book because it was adventurous. The 2 main characters, Katie & Rick, wanted to be together as friends. How could you know they would stay friends? Only one thing is certain - Billy stole Katie from the animal killer.
Antonio, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7

 

Say What? by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Say What? is about three kids named Suki, Reed, and Brian.  One day Sukie spilled a lot of glitter.  Her dad didn't get angry.  Instead, he said, "Don't pick your nose.  It is a bad habit."  Sukie was very puzzled.  She told Reed and Brian.  Soon, everytime, they were saying wrong phrases.  At night, Reed heard his parents talking about a plan.  He told Sukie, and Brian.  They knew what their parents were doing.

Why are their parents acting peculiar?  Read this fantastic book to find out.  My favorite part is when Reed heard his parents because it was a clue.  I like this book because it talks about parenting and behaviors. 
Chethani, Woodlands Elementary (Florida) Grade 4

Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul by Jack Canfield

I really enjoyed reading this book because it has true life stories about teenagers. Andrew Keegan was with his girlfriend playing a game. He really didn't know how to kiss and neither did she, so he didn't feel as bad. Read the book to find out all the interesting stories.
Cybill, Lawton Chiles Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Drive-By by Lynne Ewing

I liked reading "Drive-By" because it tells you about a boy who got shot while he was walking with his friends on the sidewalk. After Jimmy dies, his brother tries to see who was driving the mustang. Will he find the truth?
Leonard, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7

 

Fight, Bulldogs, Fight! (Cheer USA) by Jeanne Betancourt

I enjoyed this book because it was about cheerleading & I like that stuff. It is about 5 girls, Sally, Joan, Melody, Emily, Alexis & 1 boy, Darryl. They are trying to win the title back from the cougars team. Sally & Darryl want to do something bad, but the other girls try to stop them. This book is good. You should read it.
Christina, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

The Fortuneteller in 5B by Jane Breskin Zalben

There's something very strange about Alex's new neighbor. Madam Van Dam says she's a fortuneteller, but what are all the strange noises that come from the apartment late at night? Alex knows that Madam Van Dam is hiding something & Alex is determined to find out what it is.
Jessica, South Seminole Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Go Ask Alice by Anonymous

I extremely enjoyed "Go Ask Alice" because it was so hard to put down & it's full of suspense & excitement. The main character, Alice, has been through everything to torture her life. It was surprising when she got tricked to take drugs. So, that's how she started drugs & that's how she started her life crashing. How is she ever going to get her teenybopper life back?
Michelle, Lawton Chiles Middle (Florida) Grade 7

I love this book.  It deals with everyday teenage issues like peer pressure and drugs.  I recommend it for any high schooler or mature person!
Trish, SHS Grade 9
 

Home at Last (Princess) by Gabrielle Charbonnet

I liked reading this book because it was heartwarming. The main characters in the story were Evie & Molly. Molly's Dad dies while she is in boarding school. She had to get rid of everything, even her cat, & become a slave. But Molly's whole life changes when she finds a friend in the attic.
Christina, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Killing Mr. Griffin by Lois Duncan

This book is about a few high school kids who think their English teacher, Mr. Griffin, is too hard on them. They trick a young girl into helping him. At first they just wanted to scare him. They didn't mean to actually kill him. I really liked this book a lot. I would recommend this book to anyone of any age who likes a good mystery story.
Sadie, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7

The main characters are Mark, Betsy, David and Sue. The students only tried to scare him. But how many should die before they're caught?
Joshua, Lawton Chiles Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Life at Sixteen by Cheryl Lanham

I really enjoyed reading this book because it told a true life story about a 16 year old girl & her everyday problems, dreams & wishes. The main characters are Tessa & Tammy. Tessa always knew she was adopted but when she finds out she has a sister, an identical twin sister, she wants to find her. After Tessa meets Tammy she has to figure out how to be a good sister to the twin sister she never knew she had.
Jessica, Lawton Chiles Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Mandy by Julie Edwards

I enjoyed reading the book, "Mandy" because it was exciting & mysterious. The main character is Mandy. Mandy lives at an orphanage & wishes she had a family. But the whole thing is about to change when she finds a little cottage.
Michelle, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Max the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick

This book was wonderful. The main characters are Max & Worm. Worm had a horrible life, but did Max ignore the problem or did he help her out?
Megan, Lawton Chiles Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Ramona's World by Beverly Cleary

This book is about a girl named Ramona in the 4th grade. She is an average kid, but not very good at spelling. She has a secret admirer named Danny. Danny has a nickname, Yard Ape. Ramona has a birthday party at the park & invites only her girlfriends. Then when she gets set up for the party, Danny & his friends are there. Find out what happens in this exciting book.
P.G., Sabal Point Elementary (Florida) Grade 4
 

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

I liked reading "The Secret Garden" because it was interesting and nice. The main characters are Mary Lennox & her Uncle Archibald and his son, her cousin. Mary had only her cousin and uncle. The rest of the family was dead except those three.
Heather, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Scorpions by Walter Dean Myers

I enjoyed reading "Scorpions" because it was very suspenseful. The 2 main characters, Jamal & Tito, were two average kids that lived in Chicago's streets. How could they know that joining the gang, Scorpions, could change their lives completely? Only one thing is certain - guns are not things to play with or to mess with.
Oscar, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Simply Irresistible by L. K. Wright

I picked this book because it's romantic & you never knew what Sarah would do to see Tom. Sarah found out that she is falling in love with Tom. He came into her restaurant & now they are starting to fall in love. There's one thing that is keeping them from getting together. Read the book and find out what it is.
Lauren, Lawton Chiles Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Trouble in Paradise (Dawson's Creek) by C. J. Andres

I enjoyed this book. The main characters are Dawson, Joey & Jen. Their friendship was being all wrecked up by Jen's cousin. Jen's friends wrecked Katie's sweet sixteen party, but Katie wanted revenge. Katie went to Jen's house & played tricks on them. Will Katie get caught?
Andrea, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Windcatcher by Avi

This is a very good book. It is about a kid named Eric that learns how to sail. He gets his own boat and finds people trying to dig for treasure. He does research and finds where the treasure really is. Will he get there first?
Chris, Jackson Heights Middle (Florida) Grade 7
 

Harris & Me by Gary Paulsen

Read this wonderful, fun filled & exciting book. You will love it! This book is set in modern times at a ranch in the country where an 11/12 year old boy was sent to live for the summer. His parents were separated - his mother never around & his father a drunken mad man. At the farm was a young boy named Harris & the story is about the adventures & fun had by "Harris & me". The boy's name is never given which gives the story a kind of mystery side. Find out in this fantastic book how they try to ride pigs, run from killer roosters, jump from hay lofts onto horses' backs & hook a washing machine motor to an old bicycle.
Rosie, Millarville Community School (Canada) Grade 7
 

The Great Mom Swap by Betsy Haynes

This is an AWESOME book. It is very detailed. This book is about best friends who swap moms for a couple of weeks. They both think their moms are pestering but they soon learn that what they did was a mistake. If you want to read a good book, you should read this one.
Neha, Woodlands Elementary (Florida) Grade 4
 

Street Child by Berlie Doherty

This book is about a boy called Jim Jarvis who uses their last shilling to buy a pie. His mum dies & he visits all different places. At the end he goes to live with a man called Barnie. I enjoyed reading the book. I think this book is suitable for 10-12 year olds because it was quite hard to understand.
Butch, Jolliffe Primary School (United Kingdom) Year 6
 

Zilllah and Me by Helen Dunmore

This book is about a girl called Katie who had to move because her Dad was cutting down this lilac tree & fell down & died. There is another girl called Zillah who ran away & didn't come back. Will she ever come back?
Tina, Jolliffe Primary School (England) Year 6
 

Angus, Thongs & Full-Frontal Snogging by Louise Rennison

This is a hysterical diary about a girl named Georgia in London who is in high school. She has a 4 year old sister named Libby. There are many twists and turns but they are all funny. I recommend this funny book to all Middle Schoolers because it might be a little inappropriate for younger age kids. My favorite part is when she accidentally shaves her eyebrows off & how her sister reacts.
Sydney, Sanford Middle School (Florida) Grade 6
 

Shop in the Name of Love (Cheetah Girls) by Deborah Gregory

This is a book on a girl named Chanel & her 4 other friends. Chanel has a Mom & Dad who are divorced. She has a younger brother named Percy. Chanel's Mom does not want her to follow her dreams. Then she changes her mind & lets Chanel follow her dreams. Later on before she goes to bed Chanel's Mom has a talk with her. Her Mom lends Chanel her credit card. Chanel says thank you & what do you want me to buy with this? Her Mom says that Cheeta dress you wanted for that meeting tomorrow. Then without her Mom knowing, she bought a bunch of different things like carpets, another outfit for 1 of her friends & much more. I thought the book was good because it was an interesting book. Find out if Chanel's Mom finds out she bought more than 1 thing.
Kristina, Red Bug Elementary (Florida) Grade 4
 

The Wrecker by David Skinner

The Wrecker is about 2 boys named Michael & Theo that get back at a bully named Jeffrey. To get back at him Theo makes the wrecker, "made out of junk, to destroy Jeffrey's mind & soul," as he calls it. Theo goes to a junkyard to get the pieces "that come to him." Now the wrecker is done & Jeffrey is never going to bother them again. This is a really good book that I would recommend to everyone (Grades 5-8).
Cynthia, Elizabeth Learning Center (California) Grade 7
 

Dave at Night by Gail Carson Levine

Dave, an orphan after a tragic accident of the death of his father, was forced to the H. H. B. (Hebrew Home for Boys). His prized possession, a carved picture by his father, was taken by the schoolmaster. Dave despised the Home and escaped at night without anyone noticing. He helped an elder who claimed that he is his grandfather. Dave helped him receive money for telling fake fortunes. He didn't get any sleep that night but he has many adventures escaping, going off to parties and wandering the streets of New York. He makes a plan to escape with his father's carving - but will his plan work?
Jared, Highlands Elementary (Florida) Grade 5
 

Forever Friends by Candy Dawson Boyd

Have you ever had a test where you are at the part of math and you get stuck on a complicated problem? Well, a girl named Toni Douglas is in 6th grade & is having trouble with 6th grade math. She's trying to get into this really great school called King Academy but can't get in until she improves her grades. Mattie is one of Toni's best friends & sticks around with Toni. Mrs. Swallow is Toni & Mattie's 6th grade math teacher who makes Toni's life miserable. She is new to teaching upper-grade math so is trying to improve her skills also. Toni feels that her teacher is not helping but tries her best. Toni is fighting a losing battle & is feeling the pressure. This book is so good & interesting & has changed me because it convinces me to do a good job when I get to 6th grade next year. The characters in this story are so realistic that you can imagine you are in the story. I would also highly recommend this book for 5th & 6th graders or even older students interested in reading about middle school students. This book would probably be of interest to girls and not boys.
Vanessa, Kaiserslauten Elementary (Germany) Grade 5
 

Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

Stargirl is an amazing & wonderfully written book! It shows that it's okay to be different. . .& that you don't have to be a conformist to fit in! Also, it shows that how popular you are doesn't help you whatsoever in the long run. It's a great book that demonstrates that your true friends will admire & stick by you because of the real you inside. . .not because you're like 'the crowd'! If you are looking for a good book to read, & haven't read this yet... I highly recommend it. It's a great inspiring story!
Neha, Greenwood Lakes Middle (Florida) Grade 6
 

Marrying Malcolm Murgatroyd by Mame Farrell

I liked this book a lot! It was happy in some parts and sad in others. When Malcolm got tricked to go to a party & everyone laughed at him it made me kind of sad.
Anonymous
 

Nobody Else Has To Know by Ingrid Tomey

This book is about a 15 year old boy who drives his grandpa's car and hits a little girl. Then he finds out his friend knows about it.
Nikki, Winter Springs Elementary (Florida) Grade 5
 

Boy: Tales of Childhood by Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl wasn't always a good boy with a normal life. He writes all his problems in life - like the time he tricks a shopkeeper, or has to cope with his sister's horrible driving skills or is whipped by his teacher in a strict boarding school. Will he ever get his life together to write all of his books?
Jared, Millenium Middle (Florida) Grade 6
 

The Graduation of Jake Moon by Barbara Park

Jake Moon & his mother live with his grandfather, Skelly, who grows old with a terrible case of Alzheimer's Disease. Jake ends up getting him dressed & ready to go with his caretaker. No one understands how hard it is to take care of someone who doesn't even remember your own name. He grows embarrassed of his grandfather's disability. And all of a sudden his graduation is coming up. Will he be able to deal with Skelly's problem before he graduates?
Jake, Millenium Middle (Florida) Grade 6
 

Me, Mop and the Moondance Kid by Walter Dean Myers

These brothers live in an Academy with other children because their parents have died. They make a Little League Baseball team and none of the players knows how to play and they practice and practice day after day. They also have many other problems like trying to find a home for a llama and trying to find homes for themselves. But in the baseball season they don't play as well as they thought. As they play a few games they get into some fights with the other players. Moondance gets into a fight with one of the players on the Eagles. He beats up Rocky and his brother T. J. But if you want to figure out what happens you have to read this great story. This book is so good I give it 4 out of 5.
Tim, Trailridge Middle (Kansas) Grade 7
 

What Could Go Wrong? by Willo Davis Roberts

The book, "What Could Go Wrong?", is about three cousins and their journey from Seattle to San Francisco where everything goes wrong. This book is suspenseful and very exciting.
Nikki, Homeschool (Florida) Grade 5
 

Thank You, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.! by Eleanor E. Tate

In this story, the main character, Mary Louise, is embarrassed about being black. She also tries to be friends with this rich white girl who isn't worth it. I thought this book was okay but it wasn't FANTASTIC! I also thought this book had a great moral behind it. If you're a guy then I don't suggest this book because guys won't relate to it as easily as girls will. I would definitely recommend this book to girls because they are pretty sensitive to things in this book. I would exhibit this book in a 5th or 6th grade library because it's right at their reading level. Overall, I give it 3 out of 5 stars.
Sean, Trailridge Middle (Kansas) Grade 7
 

Egg-Drop Blues by Jacqueline Turner Banks

This book is about two boys who are twins and have totally different personalities. The boys' names are Jury and Judge but the only way that you can tell that they are different is that Judge is kind and Jury is wild. In the book, Judge is going to class and when he walks in the door, the teacher jumps when she sees him and then she says, "Oh, it's just you." She acted like Judge scared her, but when he sat down, his best friend told him that the teacher is scared to death of Jury. He starts to wonder why, but he just decides to stop thinking about Judge and Mrs. Norville. So, on the weekend, Jury and Judge are bored. They decide to compete in a competition where they drop eggs off a bridge. Before the end of the weekend they get all the supplies they can to make a huge ball of eggs. They are going to drop the eggs off the bridge and see how many eggs will not break.
Isaiah, Trailridge Middle (Kansas) Grade 7
 

Her Own Song by Ellen Howard

The story is about a girl named Mellie who was adopted when she was young. Her adoptive mother, Frances, died and Mellie is living with her adoptive father and Aunt Estie. Her Aunt had gone on vacation. While she was gone her father had an accident at work and was hospitalized. Mellie, who was only 10, was forced to act as her own mother. The Chinese man who did their laundry befriended Mellie. They became good friends for they were both teased and tortured because they were different. In 1905, in Seattle, white people were not to associate with Chinese people. Therefore, their friendship was forced to be kept secret. Why would a Chinaman take to a white girl knowing the risks involved? Does he know something Mellie doesn't? To find out what happens to Mellie read "Her Own Song." I personally thought the book was good yet it was slow at times. I would rate the book 3 stars. It had a good moral and plot. The book seems to be a mystery at times. It makes you want to keep reading. The book gives you a good feel of the early 1900s. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys suspense, history, and reading of different cultures.
Alex, Trailridge Middle (Kansas) Grade 7
 

The Secret of Gumbo Grove by Eleanor E. Tate

This was an OK book. One of the characters was Raisin. She wanted to know about the history of Gumbo Grove. Later in the book she found out that the founder of Gumbo Grove was also the mayor and he was black. Another character is Miss Effie Pfluggins. She is the church secretary at New Africa No.1 Missionary and she knew a lot about the church history. Raisin started to tape a lot of the stuff that Miss Effie told her when she was helping to clean the cemetery. When she took Big Boy to Miss Effie's house, Big Boy told almost everybody. When Raisin's parents found out that she had been taping stuff that Miss Effie said that was not always true, Raisin got in trouble. If you want to find out more about this book, you have to read it yourself. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.
Anthony, Trailridge Middle (Kansas) Grade 7
 

The Shadow Brothers by A. E. Cannon

Marcus and Henry are brothers (Henry is Marcus's foster brother) and both of the brothers like track and field. Marcus and Henry are two of the best joggers in the school. Henry and Marcus are always getting along very friendly. One day, though, Marcus stops hanging out with Henry because if Marcus hangs out with Henry then Marcus will lose his friends. So, Marcus makes a story up so he pretends that he is mad with Henry and stops talking with him. Marcus stops jogging and soon gets kicked off the team because he didn't want to practice with Henry. Henry stays on the team. I didn't really like this book because it's kind of boring in some parts. I give it 2 out of 5 stars.
Diego, Trailridge Middle (Kansas) Grade 7
 

Daughters of the Law by Sandy Asher

This book is about a girl named Ruthie. She is a new girl in town. She moves in from Boston to Deerfield. She is 13 years old. She goes to school but one day she meets Denise. Therefore, they become friends. Therefore, they invite each other to their houses and one day Ruthie invites Denise over. Something happens. Ruthie's past overcomes her and she tells Denise about a sister she had who died when Germany was having a war and her father died, too. When they were in Germany, her father hated being Jewish, his religion. So Ruthie can't decide if she should go ahead and study Bat Mitzvah or not. Read this book and figure it out on your own. The reason why I like this book is because it explains the life of a 13 year old girl and how she faces problems like when her Dad dies and how her Mom raises her alone.
Shweta, Trailridge Middle (Kansas) Grade 7
 

The Dear One by Jacqueline Woodson

It was Feni's birthday and her mama decides to dump the good news on her today. An old friend of mama's, Claire, has a daughter who is pregnant at the age of 15. She needs a quieter place to stay while she is pregnant. She has brothers and sisters and can't relax around them. Mama thinks it will be good for Feni to have some company around the house, but Feni doesn't want some girl that is pregnant to come stay in her house. So she comes anyway. The book is called "The Dear One" because Feni means "the dear one." Rebecca decides to put the baby up for adoption and the family decides to move close to Mama and let Rebecca choose the name and religion. But a couple of months before birth the baby stops moving so much. Go pick up this book to find out what happens next. This book for the most part was good so I give this book 3 stars because it is kinda good, kinda bad.
Baybee, Trailridge Middle (Kansas) Grade 7
 

The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket

This is a great book. It is about three Baudelaire children whose parents die and they have to live with Mr. Poe. They live with this man for two weeks but then have to live with Count Olaf. They did not like him all that much but there was one thing that bothered them - the fact that he wanted to marry Violet Baudelaire to get their fortune. If you want to figure out what happens next, read the book yourself!
Emily, Winter Springs Elementary (Florida) Grade 4
 

Tangerine by Edward Bloor

Tangerine has realistic characters to whom we can all relate. Like Paul, the main character, we have had personal experiences moving schools. Starting a new school can be scary because you are trying to fit in with people whom you don't know.
Tangerine is about Paul Fisher, who moves because of his Dad's job. Paul has to experience new people and new teachers. When he first goes to his new school, he makes the soccer team, but his visual impairment gets him kicked off the team. His impairment is ironic, because he can see the evil in Erik, his brother. Paul can see Erik's true colors even when his parents can't, which is weird because Paul is the blind one.
Tangerine has many themes. One is similar to a theme in the book "Walk Two Moons" where Mrs. Partridge is blind, but she can see things that other people who can see perfectly miss. This is the same with Paul. His brother, Erik, does things behind his parents' backs, but Paul can see everything evil Erik does. Will Paul gain the confidence to tell someone about Erik's bad side or will he just let his emotions build up inside of him? Tangerine was introduced to our eighth grade class by our teacher, Ms. Childress. The way she read it kept us guessing until the end. We would recommend this book to anyone of any age.
Tyler & Erica, Hudson Middle School (North Carolina) Grade 8

Tangerine is one of the most realistic books we have ever read. It's like we were part of the story. This totally awesome book is about a 7th grade student, Paul Fisher. He is a big pushover to everyone he knows and is too scared of the world to stand up for himself. Our teacher read this book aloud in class to us, and we are very grateful because we have never encountered a novel of this caliber.
Tangerine was so funny that at times we were gasping for air and fell out of our seats laughing. But, in most parts of the story, the plot is very serious and requires careful reading to deduce certain clues that foreshadow what will happen later on in the story. Tangerine is uniquely written through Paul's eyes. We saw fights, freezes, lightning, and all sorts of other adventures in journal form from Paul's perspective.
We suggest this book for 7th - 9th grade students. This book does not suit younger age groups because it would be too difficult to catch the themes of the story. This book would not suit older age groups because it has been so long since they have been in school that they couldn't relate.
When we were reading Tangerine, we kept thinking of a character in "Walk Two Moons" who teaches a shared basic theme: just because you are blind does not mean you cannot see.
Paul & Lee, Hudson Middle School (North Carolina) Grade 8

Have you heard of the book Tangerine? You should get off of your computer right now, go to your nearest library, and check it out before someone else grabs it! Our teacher, Ms. Childress, read Tangerine aloud to our class and we all LOVED it!
Tangerine is about a 7th grader named Paul Fisher who moves from Houston, Texas to Tangerine, Florida. Between making new friends, dealing with his older brother, Erik (who he is terrified of), and not being able to play soccer, the sport he loves, because of his eyes, Paul is having a horrible time. This rough year in Paul's life is told through journal entries written by Paul. You'll go with him, day by day, through his suspenseful life in Lake Windsor Downs.
Tangerine was probably written for kids in middle school, but we would recommend this book to just about anybody, because there's a part for everyone in the story (mothers, fathers, kids, and friends). The characters of this book are crazy (both mentally disturbed and weird), funny, serious, mean, tough, brave, afraid, loyal, and sweet. They will make you cry, laugh, hold on to your seat and wonder. The plot of Tangerine is complex. The story didn't lose us, but, always, we were thinking about what would unfold next. Tangerine is exciting and original, just like it's characters. Another book like Tangerine is "Don't Look Behind you" by Lois Duncan, which is also suspenseful and fast-paced.
Latia & Sasha, Hundson Middle School (North Carolina) Grade 8

Lightning strikes more than once in Tangerine! It's the story of timid, 12 year old Paul Fisher and his family, which includes his evil older brother, whom Paul loathes. Paul has just moved to Tangerine, Florida, where he must discover the horrible truth about his family. We can guarantee Paul's search will keep you guessing until the very end. Tangerine kept us on the edges of our seats for the entire novel.
In addition to suspense, Tangerine is full of sidesplitting laughs, as well as morals and wisdom for young adults. Tangerine themes include true friendship, brotherhood, loyalty, honesty, self-confidence, being who you are and being okay with who you are. Paul's story is written in journal entries from his 7th grade year. Therefore, it's really easy to understand the timeline and how the action fits together. Mr. Bloor, the author, also constructed the characters in such a way that we feel we see these characters every day. The setting is awesome for all the changes that occur in Tangerine. A citrus grove is a fitting place for growth both in nature and within yourself! The main conflict facing Paul in his raging battle for truth (and all smaller conflicts) comes together so well in the novel's resolution that the end left us speechless. The pace is always fast and stirs up nonstop curiosity, which makes Tangerine impossible too put down.
Our 8th grade communication skills teacher read aloud Tangerine in class and even though our class meets after lunch, Tangerine kept us awake. It is a must-read for ages 8 to 108. It's definitely on the top of our book list. Tangerine reminds us of "Holes" by Louis Sachar. Both Paul and Stanley must discover the truth about themselves and the deceitful people around them. If you like "Holes" you'll absolutely love Tangerine!
Emily & Chris, Hudson Middle School (North Carolina) Grade 8

Wow! The book Tangerine is an outstanding book. We would never have thought of picking it off the shelf if it weren't for our teacher, Ms Childress, but now we want to recommend it to you.
Tangerine reminds us of the books, "Hatchet" and "Brian's Winter" because the stories are so believable and realistic. Tangerine is about a 7th grade boy's parents who are so caught up in their older son's life that they don't even pay attention to their other child. When Paul (main character and other child) starts a new life in a new place, he searches for truth about many issues including his eyes and the matter that he is practically blind for no good reason. Along the way to the truth, there are solar eclipses, sinkholes, fights, deaths, deceit, freezes, and ultimately, true friendship. Tangerine, where Paul starts his new life, is a real place, located near Orlando, Florida. In Tangerine, Floridians really do fight freezes so their tangerine crops don't die. Our classmate, Austin, who used to live in Florida told us about the freezes, and his information matches that in Mr. Bloor's book.
Tangerine is unique among stories because it is written in journal entries, which let you see life from Paul's point of view. The pace of this book is excellent because there is always something going on that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The characters in this story are very dynamic. They make you laugh and cry, but mostly, they make you think of friendship and how precious it is. We would recommend this book to anyone young or old, because it is so thrilling.
Jarrett, Emerald, Austin, Hudson Middle School (North Carolina) Grade 8
 

What a Girl Wants by Karen Cooper

Here's the scoop on everything you need to know about making the most of your life and looking good while doing it! From boys to breakouts, from friendship to fitness, this book will get you where you need to go with ultimate confidence and style.
Lauryn, Lawton Elementary (Florida) Grade 4
 

Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke

Runaways get money from Scipio stealing items from his Dad. It was funny when Barbosa turned into a kid. Adults would like this book too.
Mitchell, Bear Lake Elementary (Florida) Grade 3
 

Don't Bug Me! by Pam Zollman

Don't Bug Me I thought was the best book I have read in my whole life!! It was a cool book. Pam Zollman, you are a great author.
Justin, Partin Elementary (Florida) Grade 5
 

The Lottery by Beth Goobie

This book is an awesome novel. I would recommend it to all readers. It is about a girl named Sally (Sal). She goes to Saskatoon Collegiate. At her school there is a council that "runs" the school body and is named, The Shadow Council. Every year they have a "Lottery." The rumor is that the Shadow Council's president sits blindfolded in front of a coffin with names of all the students at S. C. and picks out 1 name who is the "lottery winner." This year, it was Sally. At first she thought it was a joke on her by her friend Brydan. The first scroll turned up in band. She opened it and it had nothing on either side of the paper. Another one turned up in English class. I'm not going to tell you what happens because that would give it all away.
Sarah, O M Irwin Collegiate (Canada) Grade 7
 

You Cheat! by Jamie Gilson

This is a good book for people that like to fish. It starts with 2 cousins who don't know what to do. The cousin's Mom says they should go fishing. One of the cousins did not want to fish. He wanted to play his game. The other dragged him out and the cousin who wanted to fish started fishing. Later, the one who wanted to fish made a deal he would... Can't tell you. You have to read the book!!!
Amanda, Lawton Elementary (Florida) Grade 4
 

Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket

I absolutely LOVE this series! These are some of the best books I've ever read!! They are about 3 kids - Violet, the oldest, Klaus, the middle kid and Sunny, an infant - who lost their parents and are orphans. A villain named Count Olaf keeps trying to get them and their humongous fortune. They met triplets in the fifth book named Duncan and Isadora. The 3rd one is Quigley. Duncan and Isadora thought that Quigley was dead but they find out that he's not in the tenth book. If you like this, you'll definitely like the books!
Liza, St. Anne's Episcopal School (Colorado) Grade 4
 

One Fat Summer by Robert Lipsyte

Bobby Marks hates the summer time. He hates how it gets so hot you're forced by the sun to get into shorts. Bobby Marks can't even button his pants without a struggle. Bobby Marks has decided to get a job while his friend, Joanie, goes to New York. Bobby has been forced to get a job or else he has to spend the summer at Rumson's lake and that's torture for him because he's fat. So Bobby gets the job, but then he is stalked by the guy who used to work there the summer before. So, Bobby Marks is going to have one hot and dangerous summer.
Genelle, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

To Shake a Shadow by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

"To Shake A Shadow" is a wonderful book! I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading. This book is mainly about a boy named Brad Wilson who has many friends, a nice family and is running for president of his class at Darby Junior High. Then came the unthinkable that everyone found out about except for Brad. Angry and resentful, Brad fought back at life and his father in his own way. This book is definitely worth reading!
Miriam, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume

I think the book, "Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret" by Judy Blume is truly a good book. I say this because the book is about the diverse steps a you girl goes through as she's trying to grow up. I thought Judy Blume did a superb job expressing the ideal characteristics of an eleven year old. Also, it pursues how girls feel about trying to act more mature.
I believe that this book was an excellent choice. I particularly liked how Judy Blume brought out the fact that God works in His own mysterious ways, but in the end, He is always right. I also liked how it expressed her talking to God. I think it would influence girls to do the same. So, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone!
Linzy, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7

This is a touching book that is all about teenage girls and real life problems and answers.  I recommend it to any girl.  It will help you get through tough times.  It was an amazing book.
Taylor, Partin Elementary (Florida) Grade 5
 

Garden of Angels by Lurlene McDaniel

I really liked Lurlene McDaniel's book, "Garden Of Angels." You feel as if you're there as young Darcy Quinlin faces her life's many troubles. Her mother must turn over her beautiful garden to her as she receives treatments for breast cancer. The book makes you think more about those with this often fatal disease and their loved ones. Darcy's story is sure to touch your heart. I highly recommend this book. I think it is truly wonderful.
Shannon, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

What Janie Found by Caroline B. Cooney

"What Janie Found" is a great conclusion to the Janie series by Caroline Cooney. In this novel, Janie's father is hospitalized because of a heart attack and stroke, so Janie assumes his duties in paying bills and bookkeeping. While going through file folders one day, she comes across a folder that she eventually looks inside and discovers that her father has been supporting her kidnapper for almost ten years! So, deceiving her friends and family, she flies out to Colorado in search of Hannah Johnson. Once in Colorado, she decides not to let the past back into the future, but she does learn more about the ones who love her.
I think this was a very appropriate ending to the series. I also think that anyone who reads one of these books will like them as much as I did. There was not a dull moment in the whole book. However, I would like to find out if Janie's father could learn to talk enough to give her an explanation of why he was supporting the one who had tortured them for almost two years. If Caroline B. Cooney is out there, Please write another book! They are great!
Kristina, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Family by J. California Cooper

The book I read, "Family" by J. California Cooper, was a wonderful novel. This book had a lot of meaning to it. As I kept reading on, it got more and more interesting and exciting. It makes you want to just skip to the end and find out what's going to happen next. Another thing that I loved about it was that the characters never die. I highly recommend this book to anyone.
Liz, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Forest Gump by Winston Groom

"Forest Gump" has to be the best book I have ever read. It will make you laugh time and again. The 'idiot' character created by Winston Groom finds himself in unusual predicaments that will bring a smile to your face. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story. You will fall in love with this hilarious novel every time you open up the cover.
Jonathan, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Here's to You, Rachel Robinson by Judy Blume

I really liked the book, "Here's To You, Rachel Robinson" because it's funny and also sad at times. It also relates to real life. This book deals with a lot of issues teenage girls face today. Rachel's family is constantly going through emotional roller coasters. I would recommend this book to teenage girls.
Lauren, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Listen for the Singing by Jean Little

I think that "Listen for the Singing" by Jean Little is an outstanding book. I like the way that Jean Little expresses her thoughts through a teenage girl who is just starting high school. I especially enjoyed how she brought Anna and her older brother, Rudi, together when, for so long, they had been apart. This book showed me that you don't know how valuable something can be until it's gone, and Jean Little gives plenty of examples to validate this moral. I would recommend this book to anyone, especially people with siblings.
Lindsey, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Lost Boy by Dave Pelzer

In my opinion, "The Lost Boy" by Dave Pelzer is an excellent book. It gives it's readers a look into the world of foster care and the effects of child abuse. It is an honest book. I would recommend it to anyone. Over all, I would give it five stars.
Ashley, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Never Step on an Indian's Shadow by Diana Walker

"Never Step On An Indian's Shadow" by Walker is a mixture of a lesson and an interesting book. It teaches a lesson because a girl from a city with barely any racial prejudice comes to stay for the summer in a city that is filled with it. As she learns how to overcome this prejudice she faces many problems. One is the fact that her sister as well as everyone else in this town looks down on the Native Americans. Also, her Indian friend invites her into his home, and his father is just as prejudice as 'any white man'. This book will make you want to keep turning the pages for more.
Lauren, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Out of Control by Norma Fox Mazer

I enjoyed reading "Out of Control" because it deals with what some teenage girls go through and it has some suspense. It is a book about a middle-class girl that gets teased by a bunch of boys. Slowly the teasing increases into sexual harassment. At least that's what people are saying at school. I think this book is very enjoyable because it keeps you guessing what is going to happen next. "Out of Control" is a good and interesting book.
Jessica, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Rumble Fish by S. E. Hinton

The book I read was called "Rumble Fish" by S. E. Hinton. This book was one of the best books I've ever read. It had a lot of excitement in it. My favorite part of the book was when the Motorcycle Boy, everyone's role model, first came back. This was a great book, so everyone should read it.
Andrew, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

A Tangle of Roots by Barbara Girion

"A Tangle of Roots" by Barbara Girion is a very good book about a girl named Beth. She is in high school about the age of 16, Beth gets called into the Principal's office one day while at school. Her mother had died of a cerebral hemorrhage. Beth's life is going all down from here, losing her boyfriend, trying to keep up with her grades, and still working on the yearbook staff. The actions and words of this book make you feel like you feel like you feel actually 'in' the book. I would recommend this book to anyone but I don't think that boys would like it that well but just probably girls. How can Beth and her father survive without the one they love? What will happen in the end when Beth can't trust anyone? Who will she tell?
Lacey, Jackson Junior High (West Virginia) Grade 7
 

Chasing Redbird by Sharon Creech

The book is about a girl who loses her cousin and aunt because of herself and her sickness. She finds a trail of history. She finds out that she could see her aunt's spirit.
Joseph, Astatula Elementary (Florida) Grade 5

The book is reeeeaaaallllyyyy good.  It tells a story of a girl about my age and has a lot of really emotional parts that made me want to cry.  But all in all it was a really good book.
Adrianna, Grant D. Morse (New York) Grade 6

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

At first there is a kid trying to be the fastest runner in 5th grade and then a girl comes to school and they become friends.  They make a place called Terabithia where they go every day to play.  But then something tragic happens.  I won't tell you the rest of the book--you just have to read it.
Mae, Homeschool (Florida) Grade 6

About a Boy by Nick Hornby

Nick Hornby's "About a Boy" makes you think about the relationship between adults and children.  I couldn't stop reading without knowing what the protagonists' relation may cause in the end.  Although some chapters didn't get my interest because of some repeated contents, I would give everyone the advice to read this novel.

The book deals with the relation of a twelve and a thirty-six year old boy and their development to a better or maybe more usual character.  It also shows some depressive scenes of a family, of friendship and different lifestyles.

With funny language and a really interesting and entertaining behaviour it makes you think about the meaning of being a "boy".
Julietta, GGM (Germany) Grade 11

The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 3/4 by Sue Townsend

I think the book "The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 3/4" is very interesting.  It makes fun and it is very easy to read.  Because it is written as a diary.  You won't forget the things that happen.  It is good to read for people that cannot speak and read English very well.  It's for everybody, because the problems in the story concern children (teens) and grown ups.  It's a little exaggerated, what makes the book very funny.  I recommend it.
Angela, Max-Ernst-Gesamtschule (Germany) Grade 11

The book was a very nice and funny one.  It is also simple to read at school or at home.  The author uses colloquial language and some slang expressions.  It takes your breath away if you read what a little boy thinks  and what he wants to do.  The book is very good in every aspect.  When I read the book at first, it made me laugh out loud.  I've really had my money's worth out of that book.  I think the book is really good but sometimes a little confusing.

Sue Townsend has other masterpieces that are also very recommendable.
Kim, Max-Ernst-Gesamtschule (Germany) Grade 11

How to Be Good by Nick Hornby

I would recommend this book, because it's very interesting to read.  It is about a woman named Katie Carr, who's married to David, but for some time past, she has had an affair with another man, named Stephen Garner.  She has two children by David, but she isn't happy with him.  Their relationship isn't very good.

I think this book is very interesting, because it tells us about the problems in a marriage.  It tells us what kind of problems appear in a marriage and how conflicts arise. 

My opinion is that everybody should read this book, whether old or young, because I had fun reading it.  It's very exciting and I didn't stop reading, because I wanted to know what happens in the end of the novel.  When you read this book, you won't be disappointed.
Yasmin, Max-Ernst-Gesamtschule (Germany) Grade 11
 

Petey by Ben Mikaelsen

Petey is a story about a fictional character named Petey who was born with a disease called cerebral palsy.  Throughout his life people come and go and Petey doesn't get why they have to leave him.  As he gets older and older he starts giving up on making friends.  Until one day he meets a teenager named Trevor who has moved a lot and doesn't want to make friends either.  They eventually become friends and I personally loved this book.  I would recommend it for 5th grade and up because I don't think little kids would get the moral of the story.  It is a very touching and loving story.  If you read it you'll love it!!!
Clare, Park (Illinois) Grade 7

 

The Car by Gary Paulsen

This book is a very good book for a person who likes the types of books that make you keep on reading and sooner or later you will end up reading the whole book in a couple of weeks.  The main character, Terry, is 14 and has been left alone by both of his parents and has found a kit car which he builds in a matter of weeks.  Terry plans on heading west toward his uncle he hasn't seen in years.  On the way he finds a Vietnam Veteran and he helps him on the journey heading West.  It's a good book.  Most of Gary Paulsen's books are very good.
Jaritza, McCormack Middle School (Massachusetts) Grade 6

Maggie's Door by Patricia Reilly Giff

Maggie is Nory's sister.  The only thing she wants to see is Maggie's Door.  She learns in this story that family and friends are what takes her to Maggie's Door.
Brooke, Zitzman Elementary (Missouri) Grade 5

Dogger by Shirley Hughes

This book is about a boy named Max who loved a stuffed toy named Dogger.  But then he lost it.  He could not sleep without Dogger.  He could not play with anything.  He missed Dogger.  The next day Max and his family went to Summer Fair.  His sister saw someone buy Dogger, who was carried away into the Fair.  Belle exchanged the teddy bear that she had won for Dogger.  Then Max was so happy and could sleep.
Pearl (Florida)

 

The Course of True Love Never Did Run Smooth by Marilyn Singer

This book was great!  This showed how young, true love develops.  This also showed that you should always be honest with your friends no matter what.  You never know how perfect it can turn out.
Violet, P.S. 32 (New York) Grade 7

 

Because of Anya by Margaret Peterson Haddix

I loved Because of Anya.  It is so inspiring.  It is a beautiful story about friendship, understanding, kindness.  It tells the story of a girl named Anya who has a sickness that makes her lose ALL her hair.  If you have not read it yet I will only tell you that it is NOT cancer.  Anyways she has to wear a wig and one of the girls in her class notices the wig.  Read this book to find out what happens to Anya!
Ana, Keeth Elementary (Florida) Grade 5

Because of Anya was a heartfelt book.  All the commotion begins when Anya discovers she has a disease and she loses all her hair.  She has to wear a wig instead.  But in gym class one day, her secret becomes known to everyone and she didn't want anyone to know her sorrowful secret.  But then a friend comes along and helps her get through the whole thing.  The only difference was that now she was not doing it alone, she had friends by her side.
Taylor, Partin Elementary (Florida) Grade 5

The main idea of this book is about a 10 year old girl named Anya whose hair is falling out.  This is a sad story.  I like this book because it teaches us that when sad things happen, try to be brave.
Chethani, Woodlands Elementary (Florida) Grade 3
 

A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks

A Walk to Remember is a great love story that every person should read.  Seventeen-year-old Landon is one of the popular kids at his high school.  He signs up for drama class, trying to get off easy, but it doesn't work.  He gets talked into being in the school production written by Jamie Preston's father, the town minister.  Jamie is sweet, has good morals, and a really good person--Landon isn't.  When the school production comes around, Landon realizes how beautiful Jamie really is.  Landon gets to know Jamie better and actually like her.  Slowly, they begin to fall in love.  They become inseparable.  All is well until one day, Jamie tells Landon some horrible news.....  Read A Walk to Remember to find out what the horrible news is and what happens to Jamie and Landon.
Caroline, Hillcrest (Alabama) Grade 8

 

Frindle by Andrew Clements

Frindle is an inspiring book.  It is about a boy who isn't afraid to express what he is thinking and feeling.  He makes up a new word for pen; frindle.  Everyone starts using the new word and the kids at the school take an oath not to use the word pen ever again.  It is mostly for kids about 7 to 12 and is pretty easy to read.

I liked the inspiring theme from the book.  The theme is don't be afraid to speak out for something you believe in.  Older kids wouldn't enjoy it, but I give it two thumbs up!
Cortney, Baton Elementary (North Carolina) Grade 5

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Little Women is a really good book!  I haven't read a book this good since I read Nancy Drew: The Mystery of the Dancing Puppet.  I liked it because of how the girls were sweet and brave when they didn't even try to show it.  I would have to say that my favorite part was when a main character comes home just when that person was most needed there most.  This is a good book that shows life for young girls in olden times (1800).

I think girls will like this book more than boys, but boys might like it.  Boys might like it because of Laurie and how he plays such an important part in the book.  If boys want to, they can look for Little Men (also by Louisa May Alcott).

    Pros    A. Josephine (Joe as she likes to be called) gets some of her stories printed in the newspaper.
               A. When the girls get together in their imaginary newspaper and Joe has Laurie hidden in the closet.
               A. When Joe burns an entire meal for an important guest.

    Cons    A. Beth's bird died because she didn't remember to feed and water it for a week.
                A. Beth gets sick.
                A. A friend's baby died in Beth's arms.

Rating in stars -- 4 out of 5 stars  Ages 11+ and need to have Kleenexes on hand.  Also a dictionary.
Sarah, Baton Elementary (North Carolina) Grade 5
 

So Totally Emily Ebbers by Lisa Yee

If only all novels were this good!  Emily meets a Chinese girl at forced volleyball and becomes more than friends with her.  Emily's parents are divorced, she is living with her mother, and her dad is in a band, who she misses terribly.  But when a secret comes up, will they be able to keep their friendship so strong?
Holly, Grade 5

Millicent Min, Girl Genius by Lisa Yee

I wish there were more books like this one out of Lisa's series.  You can read this book over and over again without getting bored, which is a tough feat to accomplish, especially for me.  Millicent, a young girl, who masters two-digit multiplication when she was two, hides her secret of being a genius from her new friend she met at volleyball that she was forced to do by her mother.  Emily, her friend, becomes quick friends with 'Millie' but can their friendship stay as it was when (or if) Emily finds out Millicent has lied to her all along?
Holly, Grade 5

Granny Torrelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech

Do you have a best friend?  Have you ever been jealous of him or her?  If so you might understand how Rosie feels in the book Granny Torrelli Makes Soup.  This book is about a girl, Rosie, her best friend, Bailey, her grandma, Granny Torrelli, and the new girl across the street, Janine.  Rosie and Bailey have been friends since they were tiny babies.  They grew up together, and they still go everywhere together.  Rosie and Bailey have had their ups and downs growing up together, but major conflicts are arising.

When Janine moves in across the street, problems start happening.  Rosie thinks Bailey likes Janine better.  Rosie tries to avoid Janine.  Granny goes on to tell Rosie about Pardo, her best friend.  Pardo unfortunately died trying to save his dog.  One day Granny and Rosie decide to have a pasta party.  They invite Janine, Bailey, Mom, Pop, and the new neighbors down the street.  At the party they are all having a good time.  During the party, Granny makes a toast.  "All is well" says Granny.

The book Granny Torrelli Makes Soup teaches kids not to be stubborn and not to judge people before you know them.  This book is appropriate for ages 10 and up.  If you decide to read this heartwarming book, it will bring you closer to the people you love.
Holly, Whitnel Elementary (North Carolina) Grade 5

Are you in the mood for a really good book?  Here's one: Granny Torrelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech.  It's a very funny book.  Like the time when Rosie puts Tootie, a dog, in the garage and Tootie does her business and tears up everything.  What a disaster!  Or like the time Granny Torrelli cuts Violet's hair and Violet just looks more beautiful.  Rosie is a 12-year-old girl, and Granny Torrelli is her Italian grandmother.  Granny Torrelli is making zuppa (soup) while Rosie and her best friend Bailey are mad at each other.  By telling stories about her past, Granny helps Bailey and Rosie with their friendship.  Later, when Granny, Bailey, and Rosie are preparing for the pasta party, Janine comes over and Rosie is jealous.  To find out what happens next, you have to read the book.

This book is perfect for someone eight years old or older.  If you like humor or cooking, this book is surely for you, because there are a lot of funny parts and a lot of food.  This book also teaches many lessons such as respecting everybody and not taking friends for granted because something could happen to them.  Please find this book and read it, because it is a recipe for fun and enjoyment!
Addie, Alex, Amber, Sebastian, Courtney, Mackenzie, Hudson Elementary (North Carolina) Grade 3

Drita My Homegirl by Jenny Lombard

Drita My Homegirl is about two girls named Drita and Maxie.  Drita came from Kosova to New York.  No one was friends with her and she didn't know English very well.  Her mother kept on crying and crying because she has nightmares of her cousin Zana.  At school girls bully her.  Maxie saves Drita.  Then Maxie read about Kosova.  She was really amazed about it. 

Will Drita ever have any friends?  Will her mom feel better?  My preferred part is when Maxie saves Drita.  I like this book because it talks about a girl who moves to a different country.
Chethani, Woodlands Elementary (Florida) Grade 4

 

Bad Girls by Jacqueline Wilson

I thought this book was very good.  It is about a girl with a weird mum and dad and three mean posh rich girls that call her names.  But then she meets a really nice girl called Tani.  I gave it a 10.
Kathryn, Kinnitty Offaly (Ireland) Grade 5

 

Ruby Holler by Sharon Creech

The book is about two kids that were left at the Boxton Creek home.  Their names are Dallas and Florida.  They live with the Trepids.  They run the orphanage.  Dallas and Florida get adopted by families and later returned.  Then one day the Trepids had them come into their office to discuss what's going to happen to them.  They were told that they were going to two separate places.  They were told that they were going to be separated for three months and returned to the Boxton Creek home.  Dallas and Florida decide that they are going to run away when they reach Ruby Holler.  In their adventure they find out that living with Turner and Sarry (the people who adopted them) is not so bad.  That's where I'll stop and let you finish the rest of the story.
Ty (Kansas) Grade 8
 

The Bully by Paul Langan

The bully was very interesting because the boy faces some problems you can relate to.  It was about a poor boy named Darrel Mercer who moves from New Jersey to a small town called Bluford.  He is forced to leave all his friends.  When he gets to Bluford he meets a girl that he likes but he doesn't think that she is interested.  Also he gets problems from this bully Tyrone who takes his money.  Well in the end he gets fed up with the bully and stands up for himself and beats the bully up.  On the way there is a lot of things that happen but you should definitely read this book.
Vincent (Kansas) Grade 8

The book that I just read was very inspiring to me and most of my friends.  The book 'The Bully' is about a kid who gets to a school called Bluford High.  There some kids start to bully him, and he doesn't like that.  After a while he is so annoyed by a kid named Tyrone that he ends up beating up the bully.  The story inspired me by telling me not to bully any other kids or you might just end up like Tyrone.  Even though Darrel the kid that was being bullied beat up the bully he still felt bad because he felt like he was the bully.  So check your local library and ask them if they have the book called 'The Bully'.
Edwin (Kansas) Grade 8
 

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Barbara Shook Hazen

I liked the book.  Christmas is my favorite day.  I liked this book because I also really like the song.
Gabrielle (California) Pre-Kindergarten
 

Blood is Thicker by Paul Longan

Blood is Thicker is about a kid, Hakeem, who moves from his home to the city and what he wasn't expecting is about to hit him.  He gets to the city and sees it is very dangerous and is afraid.  His cousin is in a gang and wants to fight him.  At the end they end up fighting and it is really sad. 
Edwin, Mead Middle School (Kansas)
 

Anastasia Krupnik by Lois Lowry

This is a great book for anyone who doesn't want a real hard book.
 Kelly, Excelsior Elementary (Minnesota) Grade 5
 

Princess Academy by Shannon Hale

One day Miri, age 14, went with girls ages 13 to 17 to a palace where they would learn how to be a princess.  Prince Steffan would choose to marry only one.  Many dangers happen at the palace.  The girls have the strictest teacher.  If you talk when you are not supposed to you either get locked in a pitch black closet for a long time or you get whipped with a hard lash.  Who will get chosen by the prince to be the bride?  Will the girls survive the dangers awaiting them?  I recommend this book to you and your friends.
 Lindi, Northside Elementary (Colorado) Grade 4
 

Pop Diva by Cindy Jefferies

This book is a fantastic book.  You can get all the different books in the Fame School Series.  Pop and Lolly are twin sisters about to release a new single.  On top of that they are famous models and they're only about 12 or 13 years old.  Pop turns a bit greedy after the principal of their boarding school says to make sure this doesn't go to her head.  Lolly is more of a girl to focus on her academic side as well as other sides.  Pop wants to be a T.V. presenter as well as a model and a singer.  Lolly wants to focus because they have a record contract next week.  Pop isn't concentrating.

This book is a great and interesting book with a brilliant cover that struck my eye.  At first I thought it might be boring but it wasn't at all.  It is a great book for girls ages 10 to 14. 
 Renee, Blaxland East Public (Australia) Grade 6

Amber Brown is Feeling Blue by Paula Danzinger

I thought the book was good because she is pretty funny.  It was a good thing that she had two problems -- one is who's house should she go to for Thanksgiving (Mom or Dad's?) and the other is that she doesn't like Kelly Green, a new girl at school, that much.

At the end, I think she starts to like Kelly Green, but knowing that she used Amber Brown's word "I, Amber Brown" instead Kelly said, "I, Kelly Green."  Amber decided to go to her Dad's for Thanksgiving.  She started another big problem at the end: who's house should she go to next?

I recommend this book because it is very funny and it is a good book to read.
Morgan, Hubbard Elementary (Canada) Grade 4

I thought Amber Brown is Feeling Blue is the best book I ever read!  At first, Amber was having a problem with a new girl at school and now she has to decide if she's going to stay with her Dad or Mom over Thanksgiving weekend.

I think Paula Danzinger should write more books about Amber Brown.  It makes me want to read more!
Taylor, Hubbard Elementary (Canada) Grade 4

Never Mind by Avi and Rachel Vail

In the book Never Mind by Avi and Rachel Vail, Meg and Edward (twins in high school) don't get along.  Meg is always worried about fitting in/popularity and Edward doesn't care about what everyone else thinks; but gets very jealous of Meg's accomplishments and wants to ruin Meg's life.  During the middle of the book Meg gets too wrapped up in becoming popular and everything becomes a bundle of lies.  Do the lies become too big for her and her twin?

The book was good because of the plot.  I can really relate to the book.  The book has a lot of twists and turns.  The book is funny and very enjoyable.  The ending wasn't the best because I was expecting Meg and Edward to have a chapter together (that bothered me a lot), because each chapter is told by a different character.  Towards the very end of the book,. Edward asks Meg to join him skateboarding, which showed how close they connected throughout the book.
Sarina
 

Searching for David's Heart by Cherie Bennett

In Searching for David's Heart by Cherie Bennett, life isn't easy for Darcy Deeton.  Her parents are always arguing and they don't have lots of money.  Darcy has an older brother named David.  David and Darcy are like soul mates.  But then David finds a girlfriend and that's all he talks about.  David starts ignoring Darcy.  One day after David and Darcy get in a huge fight, Darcy runs off.  David chases after her, and gets hit in a tragic accident.  Darcy blames herself for David's death.  Darcy's parents decide to donate David's heart for a heart transplant.  Darcy thinks if she can find David's heart, she could find a part of her brother.  Her search begins to find David's heart.

In my opinion, the book Searching for David's Heart is a non-stop book.  You don't want to stop.  It has drama and violence at the same time; it also has some action.  If you read this book you would want it to have a second part to it.  This book rocks!  I really request you to read this book!
Baby, Legacy Middle (Florida) Grade 11

Missing May by Cynthia Rylant

This short novel, Missing May, has its positive sides and negative sides.  The book starts with the death of Summer's foster mother, May.  As the story goes on, we can see and feel the hardships of Summer and Ob, her foster father.  Missing May was beyond my expectations, with its simple yet delicate touch.  This book is worth a try, especially to people who have never experienced such an abrupt opening in a book.  The resolution and the warmth it brings will not leave my memories for a long time.
Myungchui, Shenyang International School (China) Grade 12
 

The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson

In the book The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson a 12 year old girl, Gilly, is trying to find her mother.  In yet another foster home, Gilly lives with the weird Maime Trotter and the strange William Ernest.  Her first day she met someone new.  His name is Mr. Randolph and he is a blind old man who is stranger than strange.  Later in the book Gilly takes money from people she knows.  Then she meets Angus and she's very annoying to others.  She has dirty nails and hair.  One day Gilly runs away to the bus station and buys a ticket to California with the money she stole to find her mother.  The guy that she bought the ticket from called the police on her.  Wait I can't tell the whole book to you!

My opinion about the book is that it was amazing for young readers.  While reading the book you really feel like you're in the book.  It is full of suspense, love, sadness, anger, surprising feelings, shyness and more.
Ana, Legacy Middle (Florida) Grade 6

How to Be Popular by Meg Cabot

This is a very good book, much like all of Meg Cabot's others.  My only problem is that after the first chapter, you pretty much know what's going to happen.  I read it anyway and recommend this to all tween and teen girls.  If you like this book and would like to know some other books to read, my favorites by Meg Cabot are All-American Girl and Avalon High.
Cari, Beaumont Middle (Kentucky) Grade 8