Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson (review by Anika J. '17)

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An inspirational yet eye-opening novel, Walter Isaacson provides insight into the invention, development, and release of many Apple products. It opens with a description of Jobs' childhood. Frequently landing himself into trouble at school, few could ever have predicted what he would eventually accomplish. The reader is led through his tumultuous life: the positive memories, such as when he called up Bill Hewlett to ask for some parts, and negative ones, like distancing himself from the daughter he never wanted. I originally thought that I would not relate to Jobs, but to my astonishment, the majority resonates deeply with me. Lessons learned from this book are some that may never be forgotten. It's definitely a must-read. - Anika J. '17

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Uglies by Scott Westerfeld (review by Stephanie S. '17)

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Uglies opens with Tally Youngblood waiting for her sixteenth birthday. She is waiting for her operation to take place, which will make her a pretty. Tally is the youngest of her friends and is alone in Uglyville, since all of them have moved to New Pretty Town. She is ecstatic to move and rejoin her clique. Once every child reaches the age of sixteen, a surgery is performed to make them look absolutely perfect, but Tally soon finds out physical enhancement is not all that happens. Her new friend, Shay wants Tally to run away with her and stay ugly. Shay ends up running away, but Tally decides against it. The city authority, Special Circumstances, force her to to make one of the hardest decisions of her life: Rat out her best friend and find the runaway Uglies, or never have the operation and stay ugly for eternity. I would recommend this futuristic story to a reader of any age. - Stephanie S. '17

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Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld (review by Cynthia H. '16)

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Set in an alternate universe World War I where Clankers and Darwinists battle it out using giant walking machines and fabricated creatures, respectively, Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s orphaned son Alek must flee Austria-Hungary, with both Germans and Darwinists on his trail. On the other side of the continent, Deryn Sharp, a Scottish girl who longs to fly on the airship Leviathan, disguises herself as a boy and enlists in the British Royal Air Service. When the Leviathan crash-lands near Alek’s hideout in the mountains of Switzerland, Alek and Deryn are forced to work together to save themselves and their crews. Leviathan is an amazing start to the eponymous trilogy, with ample character development for both protagonists, a plot that interweaves fantastical elements and historical events, and intricate illustrations by Keith Thompson. Fans of historical fiction and steampunk will be delighted by the incredible, epic world of Leviathan. - Cynthia H. '16

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The Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier (review by Anushka D. '15)

Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When Griet is hired as a full-time maid at painter Vermeer’s house, she sets out with her hair tightly wrapped and her virtue intact. Although she cannot help the instant attraction she feels for her master, Griet hides behind her cumbersome work and cleans his room when he is not around. When Griet displays artistic talent, Vermeer begins to introduce her to his world, and soon, Griet is sucked in to the lust, deception, and scandal she is unable to escape. Chevalier has masterfully created and written a wonderful story from a mysterious painting; her poetic rendering of Griet as a shy, virtuous maid is ingenious and delightful. The Girl With the Pearl Earring is extremely hard to put down; the plot starts strong and never lags and the ending is poignant. Recommended for lovers of history, art, and subtle romance. - Anushka D. '15

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The Selection by Kiera Cass (review by Nitya M. '15)

The Selection by Kiera Cass
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Selection is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, giving a handful of lucky girls the chance to escape their caste to rise up and become a One, the wife of Prince Maxon. For budding musician America Singer, however, the Selection is nothing more than a burden, forcing her to leave behind her secret boyfriend, Aspen, and loving, if poor, family for luxury, cut-throat competition, and danger she neither wished for nor accepts. But at the castle, America meets her potential husband, a man less like a prince, someone who she could love, and she is torn between her love back home and the willing prince who would give her anything if she said yes. Fast-paced and riveting, The Selection provides a detailed portrayal of characters in this dystopian world and provides a fresh take on the love triangle cliché. Yet, the book offers only a hazy view of the world these characters inhabit, and we are left at the end of the novel, only knowing the caste system that shapes society. Readers of romantic novels, as well as dystopian fiction like The Hunger Games will enjoy this first of a trilogy. - Nitya M. '15

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A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini (review by Zina J. '14)

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Khaled Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Suns is so enchanting, I devoured it in three days. The novel illustrates the lives of Laila and Mariam, two Afghani women from different backgrounds, and emphasizes the stance of women’s rights in Afghanistan. The vivid imagery, violent motifs, perfect use of themes, and incorporation of cultural terms empowered the novel. This book made Khaled Hosseini one of my all-time favorite authors. This page-turner left a lasting impact on me, changed my perception of women’s rights internationally, and made me appreciate the feminist movement in America. This book is a must-read for everyone, especially those interested in the Middle East or the feminist movement. A Thousand Splendid Suns was even better than Hosseini 's earlier book, The Kite Runner, which is hard to surpass. - Zina J. '14

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Whistling Vivaldi by Claude M. Steele (review by Zina J. '14)

Whistling Vivaldi: And Other Clues to How Stereotypes Affect Us by Claude M. Steele
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Claude Steele’s Whistling Vivaldi discusses stereotypic threats, their effects, and solutions to alleviate the problem. Steele's tremendous knowledge in psychology is evident from the excellent studies and the anecdotes that make the research more personable. He grasps the sense of conscience with a twist; for example, he flips the stereotypical underdog in his anecdote about a white male’s conscience while attending a college class about African American history. On the other hand, the author’s verbose writing style, overuse of the pronoun I in describing research, and repetitious ideas prevent the reader from benefiting much from the book. Furthermore, he overemphasizes the stereotyped groups, such as African Americans and women, while neglecting to incorporate other minorities. Nevertheless, the author, a Columbia professor, is clearly an expert in his field. If you are interested in studying stereotypes, this is the book for you. - Zina J. '14

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After the Funeral by Agatha Christie (review by Daphne Y. '16)

After the Funeral by Agatha Christie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The queen of mystery sets the scene after the death of Richard Abernethie. His sister, Cora, suggests that he was murdered, and she is found dead as well in her room the next day. Thus, Hercule Poirot is called upon to tie the strings together. Although the characterization is very detailed and the ending satisfactory, this book was boring in the sense that Christie's descriptions of the various suspects and settings seemed long without actually getting anywhere. Evidence does not appear until the end of the book. It is a nice story overall, but recommended only to fans who really enjoy mystery, because to the average reader, the endless paragraphs of vague plot may not seem so appealing. - Daphne Y. '16

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How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming by Mike Brown (review by Allison W. '16)

How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming by Mike Brown
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming Mike Brown discusses his search for new planets which ultimately led to the decision that Pluto should not be considered a planet. Although the book does discuss some astronomy, it focuses on the process of scientific discovery and what Brown did on his path to discover the dwarf planet Eris. Starting with his bet that someone would find a new planet within five years, he discusses not only his work but also his home life with an infant daughter. How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming is a humorous book which should appeal to anyone who wants to know why Pluto is not a planet. -Allison W. '16

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Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card (review by Karen T. '16)

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In a futuristic world on the brink of an alien invasion, Andrew "Ender" Wiggin is accepted into the prestigious Battle School, an orbiting military school dedicated to training soldiers and leaders for the impending third alien invasion. As Ender accelerates through his studies, he encounters both friends and enemies, all of whom leave indelible marks on Ender's life. Although the plot tends toward repetitive monotony towards the middle of the book, the vivid characterization of the protagonist and the logic behind his brilliant tactics save the story from becoming insipid. While those who eschew the details of politics and technology may find this novel dull, Ender's Game will captivate fans of science fiction or military novels due to its complex characters and tactics, as well as its detailed writing style. - Karen T. '16

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Lady Macbeth's Daughter by Lisa Klein (review by Allison W. '16)

Lady Macbeth's Daughter by Lisa M. Klein
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Lisa Klein’s Lady Macbeth’s Daughter revolves around Albia, the supposedly dead daughter of Macbeth and Grelach (Lady Macbeth). Growing up, she leaves Wychelm Wood, where she was raised, to live with another family. Eventually, she learns who her true parents are and works against them. A twist on Shakespeare’s play, Lady Macbeth’s Daughter has an interesting start, but by the end of the book, the plot is not very exciting. In addition, the ending is unsatisfying and leaves many important questions unresolved. Lady Macbeth’s Daughter has the potential to be an excellent book, but it will most likely appeal only to fans of Macbeth. - Allison W. '16

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Hunger by Michael Grant (review by Catherine H. '17)

Hunger by Michael Grant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Darkness is growing more restless, invading the minds of all who have come into contact with it, bending them to its will. It quickly grows in power after feeding and tries to escape the cave, hoping to fend off the residents of the FAYZ. Later, the inhabitants of the FAYZ rise and try to trap and destroy it before it becomes more dangerous. Michael Grant’s second book in the Gone series does not disappoint. One of my favorite dystopian/supernatural series, I recommend Hunger to anyone looking for a thrilling read.- Catherine H. '17

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Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman (review by Andrew R. '17)

Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch by Terry Pratchett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch features a book-dealing angel named Aziraphale; his danger-loving demon acquaintance Crowley; and the eleven-year-old Adam Young, a resident of the town of Lower Tadfield who already commands his own gang. None of the three is what they seem. Aziraphale, the supposed epitome of good, has spent so much time with the human race that he may not actually be perfect, while Crowley, a servant of Satan, has embarrassingly picked up some positive qualities. Meanwhile, Adam, due to a mix-up at his birth, is the Antichrist, fated to bring about the ultimate destruction of the world. While Good Omens does contain commentary on the nature of good and evil, it does not read like a story with a moral, as each page is filled with humor and action. Occasional digressions from the main plotline, which often follow the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse and a seventeenth-century witch, add a complex and thought-provoking element to the book. Any reader willing to tolerate some good-natured jokes concerning the Biblewill thoroughly enjoy this light novel with serious, philosophic themes. - Andrew R. '17

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Luck of the Bodkins by P.G. Wodehouse (review by Samyu Y. '15)

Luck of the Bodkins by P.G. Wodehouse
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Monty Bodkin is happily engaged to Gertrude Butterwick – for the time being. The same can be said for actress Lotus Blossom and writer Ambrose Tennyson. Reggie Tennyson hopes likewise for him and spitfire Mabel Spence, sister-in-law of the successful movie producer, Ivor Llewellyn. Llewellyn hopes Customs won’t catch him smuggling his wife’s pearl necklace into the States. Amid hysterical misadventures and droll misunderstandings, Wodehouse injects a measure of social criticism, focusing mainly on the idle rich. While Wodehouse’s tale of well-intentioned blackmail, broken engagements, and happy endings – complete with a full cast of vivid, strong-willed characters – proves amusing, it lacks plot. However, witty prose and lively, humorous language make all three hundred fifty-eight pages of this delightful, light novel worth reading. - Samyu Y. '15

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Boy21 by Matthew Quick (review by Mrs. Vaughan, Harker librarian)

Boy21 by Matthew Quick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stoically determined Finley McManus started shooting hoops to hide from the horrific circumstances of his mother's death when he was too small for a regulation size rock. Now he's a senior and starting point guard on the his inner city high school team dating Erin, an even better player looking to head to a D1 college on scholarship. Basketball is their ticket out of their frightening existence dominated by racial violence, gangs and drugs. As the school year begins Coach asks Finley to mentor newly arrived Russ, a young man struggling to recover from the recent murders of his parents and a world class baller who is on a fast track to the NBA. Since his parents' deaths, however, Russ has given up the game and lives in the self-created delusion that he's Boy21, an alien from outer space. Finley, the consummate team player, takes on his coach's request even though getting Boy21 to turn back into Russ will almost certainly threaten Finley's starting position. Quick has written a powerful and gripping novel driven by the genuine depictions of fully realized characters. It is about much more than basketball. Quick does not shy away from tackling issues of race, class, or the ever tenuous fine line of gang politics. And when a sudden and frightening event turns Finley's world upside down -- just as Boy21 is emerging from a shell few people understand -- Quick turns everything up a notch. Up for consideration: What are you willing to give up to help someone in need? When should loyalty trump self-preservation? Fans of John Green, David Leviathan, David Brooks, John Barnes and other experts in realistic fiction, will read, love and remember Boy21. Not to be missed. - Mrs. Vaughan, Harker librarian

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The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon (review by Camille P. '14)

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mark Haddon’s The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time is a moving story told through the eyes of an autistic adolescent boy. What starts as a mystery novel as the narrator tries to decipher who killed his neighbor’s pet poodle, morphs into an uplifting often humorous story about a boy forced to face his greatest fears. When he travels to a train station, for example, he is overwhelmed by unfamiliarity. Haddon merely states facts and allows the reader space for analysis. The denouement and ending are short and rather abrupt, but they do not detract from the overall enjoyment. With only 250 pages, this book is a fast read. - Camille P. '14

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The Speed of Light by Elizabeth Rosner (review by Camille P. '14)

The Speed of Light by Elizabeth Rosner
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Speed of Light is about Julian, his younger sister, Paula, and Paula’s housekeeper, Sola, whose current lives are dictated by their frightening pasts. The siblings’ father was persecuted during the Holocaust, marking their childhood with sorrow. Sola’s village in Mexico was brutally attacked by rebels of the government. Now, in present day, they are all brought together in Berkeley, California, and with the help of one another, they must somehow overcome their histories. Rosner's alternating use of three different perspectives and beautiful imagery kept me turning pages. What deterred me were the slow pace of the plot and the predictability of the ending. I would recommend Speed of Light to a friend looking for a light, feel-good novel about the art of healing. - Camille P. '14

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Bertie Wooster Sees It Through by P.G. Wodehouse (review by Andrew R. ''17)

Bertie Wooster Sees It Through by P.G. Wodehouse
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bertie Wooster Sees It Through begins when Wooster grows a mustache—a mustache which, although many consider it “the most obscene thing they ever saw outside of a nightmare,” is enough to make his ex-fiancée, Florence Craye, fall helplessly in love with him again. Soon, he must escape the fury of Craye’s current partner, Stilton Cheesewright. His position becomes even more precarious when his forceful Aunt Dahlia invites all three to her estate, and Wooster can only rely on his butler Jeeves to rescue him from the vengeful Cheesewright and the persistent Craye. Narrated by the dim-witted protagonist, the novel showcases Wodehouse’s famous roundabout writing style and comical dialogue. Each character has his own distinct personality. A full cast of relatives, servants and British gentlemen makes this book a masterpiece. - Andrew R. '17

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Graceling by Kristin Cashore (review by Anushka D. '15)

Graceling by Kristin Cashore
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Because Katsa was revealed to be Graced with excellent combat skills at a young age, she has grown up as King Randa’s pet assassin. Katsa detests the fear and destruction that follows her everywhere she goes but feels helpless; she cannot aid the kingdom or change her image. However, when handsome King Po shows up at the castle and becomes her first true friend, Katsa finally has a chance to prove herself as a human, not a savage. Cashore creates a beautiful fantasyland full of dragons, kingdoms, and kings while keeping credible characters. Katsa is strong-willed, powerful, and beautiful but rivets readers with her vulnerablility and compassion . The plot hooks readers and continues to be strong to the end, and the romance is entertaining. - Anushka D. '15

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Food Rules: An Eater's Manual by Michael Pollan (review by Eddie S. '17)

Food Rules: An Eater's Manual by Michael Pollan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nowadays, deciding what and what not to eat is all about the nutrition facts, right? Well, Michael Pollan, in his book, Food Rules, makes it known that the nutritional label is actually not essential for maintaining a healthy eating lifestyle. In his 140 page book of 64 basic policies are three main concepts. Pollan drastically simplifies the process of picking the best foods to eat by stripping away indecipherable. I absolutely loved the various epigrams, proverbs, and adages scattered throughout the book. One of the most down-to-earth books I have ever read, Food Rules, is brief, brainy, and brilliant. Simply irresistible. -Eddie S. '17

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Moonglass by Jessi Kirby (review by Allison W. '16)

Moonglass by Jessi Kirby
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jessi Kirby’s Moonglass follows Anna as she becomes acquainted with her new home in Crystal Cove, the place where her father and her late mother first met. After nine years of avoiding the truth about her mother’s death, Anna is shocked to meet people who knew her mother. Anna and her father struggle to face the past they have been ignoring as she slowly learns more about her mother’s life and suicide. Despite the book’s slow start, it slowly gained momentum until I could not stop reading it. This book should appeal to people who want to know the answers to their questions. Overall, Moonglass is a great book, and it was definitely worth it to read through the slow beginning. - Allison W. '16

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Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard (review by Sana A. '17)

Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pretty Little Liarsis a fantastic medley of suspense, romance, and cliques in the the world of four high school girls: the idyllic town of Rosewood. However, buried under the seemingly perfect facade of the suburb are secrets that will forever change the lives of Spencer, Hanna, Aria, and Emily. The girls were formerly best friends, and there was one more person in their close-knit group. Alison was worshipped by the rest of the girls to the point that she knew all of their darkest secrets. After she mysteriously disappears on the night of their end-of-the-year sleepover, the group falls apart. Now, three years later the girls come together when they begin to receive anonymous texts from “A," who threatens to reveal the secrets that they thought only Alison knew. Their excitement about the prospect of Alison being alive is destroyed when her body is found shortly afterwards, thus beginning their twisting and turning journey of finding out who murdered Alison and who A is. Sara Shepard presents a dark thriller as well as a light story of four girls navigating through high school in this phenomenal novel. - Sana A. '17

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Crash by Nicole Williams (review by Anushka D. '15)

Crash by Nicole Williams
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

When Lucy meets the stunning Jude Ryder before her junior year, she can’t help the romantic notions that dance in her head. It only takes one conversation, however, for Lucy to realize that Jude is more of a bad boy than a prince. When Jude refuses to let her go, promising that he will change, Lucy soon finds that she is having trouble staying away. But can Jude really throw away his past completely? Crashis the epitome of a teen romance novel: shy girl, dazzling boy, and forbidden love. Williams’ novel slightly differs from the clichéd love tragedy due to Lucy’s snarky, independent, and hilarious narration, but the rest is predictable and laugh-out-loud sappy. The writing provides little description of both the scenery and the character’s emotions, leaving readers to fill in the blanks. All in all, Crash disappoints with its unoriginal plotline and lousy writing and leaves no promise for a better sequel. - Anushka D. '15

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Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (review by Samyu Y. '15)

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This clichéd novel begins with the sentences “The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it.” The excitement of the circus’ arrival dominates the first few pages, and the detailed description of the opulent and mysterious circus portends an interesting novel. Instead, the reader finds a hackneyed tale of forbidden love, complete with feuding fathers, lovelorn maidens, and an overload of the supernatural. Celia and Marco, pulled unwillingly into the enduring rivalry of magicians Hector and Alexander, make the circus the venue for the great and terrible challenge envisioned by their mentors. Secret enmity, hidden motives, and unknown consequences lurk in the shadows of the circus tents, where each rustle of a fortune teller’s skirt or a patron’s red scarf signals a sinister conspiracy. Into this world of enigma strolls Bailey, a young boy who is exasperated with his family and delighted and intrigued by the circus. While colorful description, an occasional murder, and the fearful atmosphere redeem the book, the banal nature of the plot is ultimately disappointing. Night Circus is most certainly not literature, and even in the less intellectual world it does not shine. Readers of fantasy may enjoy the novel as a light read. – Samyu Y. ‘15

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Beauty Queens by Libba Bray (review by Sana A. '17)

Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Libba Bray’s Beauty Queens begins with fifty beauty pageant contestants on a plane to The Miss Teen Dream Pageant, which is hosted by The Corporation. When the plane crashes, hilarity ensues. Bray’s wit and sarcasm is on every page. The characters may, at first, seem like perfect representations of their stereotype; but upon closer look, they are anything but. As they scramble to survive, the girls grow close and realize that The Corporation -- and its numerous products and television shows -- has only been damaging society’s view of women. Adding pirates, hilarious commercial breaks, a view of what is happening at the secret Corporation base, and insight into many of the girls’ backstories, Bray has created a tightly interwoven novel that expertly combines humor, action, romance, and a little bit of feminism. This fun and light female-oriented read will make one snicker and sigh as they are swept away with a group of beauty queens. – Sana A. ‘17

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Scarlet by A. C. Gaughen (review by Anushka D. '15)

Scarlet by A.C. Gaughen
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

As a member of Robin Hood’s gang, “Will” Scarlet holds many secrets. For one, she’s really a girl. Even the members of the band do not know her painful past. When a ghost from her history closes in, Scarlet must make a difficult decision: her gang or her life. Scarlet has the potential to be an interesting read due to its creative take on the classic Robin Hood tale. While Scarlet is rude, foul-mouthed, and amazingly strong, she is also emotional and insecure about her past, a flawed personality that easily enthralls readers. However, the immature romance and unsatisfying ending detract from the book’s narration. Her potential lovers are irrational and demanding, and Scarlet is irritatingly indecisive about who she loves. In addition, the conclusion of the adventure novel is a mere whimper. All in all, the lack of a consistently gripping story makes Scarlet a drag. – Anushka D. ‘15

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The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson (review by Anushka D. '15)

The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Rory Deveaux first transfers from Louisiana to London, she can’t help but feel out of place in her new surroundings. However, just as Rory starts to call her boarding school her home, her life is suddenly disrupted as a nearby killing spree shockingly similar to that of the Jack the Ripper murders begins. When horrific footage of a woman being slaughtered by an unseen force comes to light, police suspect a ghostly hand is behind the ordeal. Rory finds herself in the midst of the mess when she is able to spot the murderer and inadvertently becoming his next target. The Name of the Star is brilliantly written. Rory is an ensnaring character: witty, brave, and charming, and she carries the narrative with both stunning confidence and loving vulnerability. While Johnson does introduce a love triangle, it is subtle and does not detract from the story. Johnson ends The Name of the Star with a compelling plot twist hooking readers for the sequel: The Madness Underneath. Anyone looking for a thriller will be thoroughly satisfied!

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The Chase by Clive Cussler (review by Andrew R. '17)

The Chase by Clive Cussler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A historical thriller set in 1906, The Chase follows the efforts of master detective Isaac Bell to capture and arrest the Butcher Bandit, a notorious bank robber who cold heartedly murders any witnesses to his crimes. Eventually, as the detective draws closer to his quarry, Bell’s own life is endangered as the outlaw turns his attention to his pursuer. A true page-turner, this novel is difficult to put down; each chapter brings new peril to the protagonist and his assistants. In addition, the author includes extraordinary detail, extensively describing each new character in a way that ultimately enriches the novel. While I normally dislike romantic books, the few love scenes did not bother me or distract from the action, and sometimes even added to the suspense. Fans of detective or suspense stories will enjoy The Chase, whether or not they normally read historical fiction. - Andrew R. '17

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Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion (review by Nikita R. '16)

Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

R, a zombie living in apocalyptic world, finds himself unsure about the simplicity of his newly resurrected life. Unable to vocalize his doubts and beliefs, R continues to groan along with his fellow zombies for decades, until the day he preys upon a young teenage boy named Perry. Infused with Perry’s love for his girlfriend Julie, R rescues her. In an unlikely romance, R and Julie begin to teach each other the true meaning of living. Although a zombie book doesn’t seem sweet or profound, Marion manages to incorporate a touching romance inside of a book that questions every aspect of society. The illustrative language and complex characters will not disappoint readers. Warm Bodies will be appreciated by both teenagers and adults alike. – Nikita R. ‘16

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Proof of Heaven by Eben Alexander (review by Eddie S. '17)

Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife by Eben Alexander
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Near-death experiences have been recounted for centuries. Eben Alexander, a neurosurgeon, describes his recent one in his bestseller, Proof of Heaven. Alexander is suddenly diagnosed with a disease called meningitis, and the chances of surviving appear slim. He fatefully slips into a coma, and his spirit mysteriously voyages to the unknown realms of the afterlife. After being comatose for an entire week he suddenly wakes up, defying all odds. Proof of Heaven is fascinating yet bizarre. Alexander does a sensational job expressing the divinity of the afterlife. From the start, he sets the tone with his childhood dream of flying and maintains the peacefulness throughout the book. Alexander provides substantial emotional depth. Nevertheless, his description of the adventure is disappointingly short, and various moments are incomprehensible and dull. I would definitely recommend this book to those willing to step outside their comfort zone and try a book completely new. Readers of all kinds will find Proof of Heaven outlandish and satisfying. – Eddie S. ‘17

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Chasing the Prophecy by Brandon Mull (review by Kai A. '17)

Chasing the Prophecy by Brandon Mull
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

When transported magically from Earth to Lyrian, Jason and Rachel simply wanted to return home. They have been flung into a dire and seemingly hopeless conflict against the evil tyrant and wizard Maldor. The improbability of victory is repeatedly expressed, so much so that it gets tiring. Still, when the action gets going, the book becomes fast-paced and adventurous. Mull not only does well in depicting the battles, but he also describes Jason and Rachel’s coming of age as well as the sense of unification and sacrifice. Mull plants the beginnings of a new plot at the end of the last book of the trilogy, rendering the conclusion to the main plot unsatisfying. In summary, this novel is decent but probably not Mull's best, a slightly disappointing end to a good series. – Kai A. ‘17

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Gone by Michael Grant (review by Catherine H. '17)

Gone by Michael Grant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When a dome-shaped force field surrounds Perdido Beach, California and every person over the age of fifteen disappears, the children begin to freak out. Sam Temple, the protagonist, is praised after pulling a young girl out of a flaming apartment. Strangely, the children begin discovering powers and mutations, thought to be the product of leftover radiation leak many years ago. Caine Soren from Coates Academy, a school for the delinquent children of wealthy families, uses his charisma to take charge. The two teenagers fight for power in what has been nicknamed the FAYZ, or Fallout Alley Youth Zone. In this thrilling book, a dystopian society emerges and the children must learn to survive until the age of fifteen when they vanish, poofing out of the FAYZ.. I found this book somewhat dark, yet very original and empowering. It is the first installment in the popular Gone series. – Catherine H. ‘17

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I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore (review by Catherine H. '17)

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Number Four has taken on many names, becoming John Smith after moving to Paradise, Ohio. He and nine other members of the Garde, the alien race of the planet Lorien were sent on the run on Earth when Mogadorians attacked and took over. Three have died and Four knows he is next. He falls in love, hoping to lead a normal life, but his dream is shattered when the Mogadorians learn of his location. Now, everyone in the town of Paradise is in danger and John must learn to survive. This book is packed with action and suspense. Pittacus Lore has dreamed up a fantastical world hidden within ours, making it a page-turner! The first book in the Lorien Legacies series, I am Number Four will lead to much more! – Catherine H. ‘17

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Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev (review by Tiffany Z. '17)

Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ivan Turgenev's 234-page Fathers and Sons might bear no resemblance in physical size, scale of plot, or popularity to, say, Leo Tolstoy's sprawling masterpiece War and Peace, but the quality of a classic must never be measured by length. The cozy lives of two university friends, unduly harsh nihilist Evgeny Bazarov and his companion Arkady Kirsanov, play out over the course of little more than a month. Yet in that short period of time, romances bloom, a friendship wilts, and the titled fathers (and mothers) worry incessantly about the titled sons, who meanwhile chase their ambitions to tragic ends. Unlike War and Peace, Fathers and Sons is a novel about daily life. Turgenev accurately captures it all—from hotly debated controversies of mid-19th-century Russia to the strains and strife of ordinary parent-child relationships—with fresh, easily understandable prose, a keen eye for detail, and sharp-witted dialogue through which characters additionally raise key questions that still bear relevance today. A novel that can be read for its lively plot, its memorable and realistic characters, or its thought-provoking ideas, Fathers and Sons lives up to its acclaim and makes a touching, joyful read for anybody. – Tiffany Z. ‘17

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Reasons to by Happy by Katrina Kittle (review by Nikita R. '16)

Reasons to Be Happy by Katrina Kittle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Normally spunky and fearless, Hannah Carlisle begins to succumb to her insecurities as she enters a cruel high school, struggles with an imperfect figure, and worst-of-all, confronts her mother’s cancer. Despite her affluent household and movie-star parents, Hannah experiences emotions relatable to any teenager. Through her personal fight against bulimia, she provides an insightful view into the destructive nature of eating disorders, along with an inspiring account of struggling to remain true to herself despite peer pressure. Reasons to Be Happy is a great read for almost any teenager, and would be enjoyed by most adults too. – Nikita R. ‘16

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Captured by Erica Stevens (review by Anushka D. '15)

Captured by Erica Stevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Aria, daughter of the head of the human resistance, is captured by members of the vampire race, she hopes for a quick death. Just as she is about to be sold to a malicious vampire, however, a member of the ruling class claims her for himself. Although she is curious as to his reason -- he has no need for a blood slave -- Aria is determined to hate him for the destruction his race has caused and for his princely title. But as he opens up to her and reveals a side that she never believed could exist in a vampire, she cannot help but fall for him even as she struggles to maintain her identity as a member of the resistance. Captured takes on a typical plotline: Human girl and vampire boy fall in love. While building a strong romance, Stevens maintains a focused, fresh and surprisingly interesting story line and fully develops her characters. Readers looking for a twist on the clichéd human-vampire love tragedy will enjoy Captured and will likely be hooked to follow up quickly with the second in Stevens’ series, Renegade. - Anushka D. '15

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Crank by Ellen Hopkins (review by Anushka D. '15)

Crank by Ellen Hopkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Good girl Kristina Georgia Snow begs to visit her father in New Mexico so she can reconnect with the man wrenched from her life and once again be his little princess. When she arrives her dreams crash as she takes in the drug addict her father has become along with his less-than-kingly castle and job. Before long, however, she falls in love with a boy and is swept into the dangerous world of drugs, a world that follows her when she returns home to her mother. Written creatively and realistically, Crank follows Kristina's descent into a hell that ravages her family, friends, and life. Although she is difficult to understand and often unlikeable, the narration accurately depicts her addiction, pain, and struggle. Based on a true story, the book makes the reader think about what many teens face today. The sequel should be just as tumultuous and dark, and just as worthy a read! – Anushka D. ‘15

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Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson (review by Anushka D. '15)

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Melinda Sordino begins her freshman year dreading to see the people she once called her best friends. She ruined any chances of being popular or even having friends when she called the cops during a summer party. But what no one knows is that Melinda is hiding something about what happened at the party, something that devastated her. Anderson uses heartbreakingly beautiful prose to deliver a story about a reality many teens have to face. By concealing the horrible truth even from the readers, she leaves them no choice but to read as Melinda falls apart. While Melinda is distant from everyone, she manages to create a strong impression on the readers, capturing their hearts with her loneliness and despair. Anderson keeps the plot focused, never straying to include petty romance or overcomplicated plotlines. Speak is wonderfully delivered and hard to put down. – Anushka D. ‘15

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The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde (review by Kai A. '17)

The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Indentured orphan Jennifer Strange is a witty teenager working as secretary for Kazam Mystical Arts Management, which offers its magical services in a world where magic, once powerful, has recently started to wane. Suddenly, she becomes the last dragonslayer and must save the world's magic. Author Jasper Fforde specializes in building believable worlds and creating realistic but fantastic characters while maintaining a light and comical tone. His unpredictable and intricate plot has some inconsistencies and gaps of logic noticeable to the meticulous reader. In addition to an exciting ride, the plot becomes a vehicle of commentary on the corruption and greed of mankind. Overall, this is a enjoyable read and the first in the Chronicles of Kazam series that promises much more. – Kai A. ‘17

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Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie (review by Daphne Y. '16)

Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Murder on the Orient Express is a page-turner! While reading it, I suspected everyone Hercule Poirot interviewed and every situation possible... except for the actual result. Although a bit hard to understand at times, Agatha Christie's writing is eloquent and mysterious: never revealing too much but just enough to keep a reader reading. The book is flawless in its intricate characterization, as each suspect mentioned in the story has a distinct and imaginable personality. Readers of all ages will pick up this book thinking they will solve the mystery before Poirot, but guaranteed no way of avoiding the plot twists that await! – Daphne Y. ‘16

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