Wednesday, October 22, 2008
"I think this book was simply amazing. Terri puts the reader smack dab in the middle of her head. The graphic descriptions of mania to hypo-mania to depression, and sometimes in reverse, lets the reader feel her emotions and even hear her thoughts. As a manic-depressive I felt a connection with Terri. I think everyone can. (It was) one of the best books I've ever read." Reviewed by Rebekah, Northeast Guilford High
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
"It was very interesting. It would have deserved more stars (I give it four out of five) if Ingrid, Carina, and most of the people they hung around with didn't smoke; and if she didn't meet Ribbit and hang out with him while he was drunk." Reviewed by Jordan, Hemphill Teen Reader!
A light story generously peppered with modern-day references to movie stars, musical styles, and teenage slang, this novel is perfect for fans of Meg Cabot's "Princess Diaries" series ~ School Library Journal
Monday, October 20, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
"I really enjoyed the Civil War setting, and it was interesting following Sarah's journey from impersonating a soldier to becoming a spy. But I didn't like how the book ended - it left loose ends and wasn't very satisfying." Reviewed by Hannah, Hemphill Branch Teen Reader!
"Inspired by the war fever of 1861, and tired of her father's mistreatment, 15-year-old Sarah Wheelock determines to run away and join the Union forces to fight the Confederacy. The last straw comes when her father promises her hand in marriage to a man who is twice her age and has the manners of a bear. After she cuts her hair, changes clothes, and lowers her voice, Sarah has few problems passing as a boy: years of hard farm labor have toughened her physically, and she has a natural talent for impersonation. . . . While Sarah and the other characters lack depth, Rinaldi's novel offers an exciting plot based on solid historical research." School Library Journal
Thursday, October 9, 2008
"This is an amazing book. It deserves ten stars (instead of just 5). The world the characters live in is perfect. Everyone is alike; but Joan is singled out to learn of "the memories" when there wasn't Sameness. He is the only person that gets to experience holidays, wars, and much more." Reviewed by Jordan ~ Hemphill Branch Teen Reader
"In a world with no poverty, no crime, no sickness and no unemployment, and where every family is happy, 12-year-old Jonas is chosen to be the community's Receiver of Memories. Under the tutelage of the Elders and an old man known as the Giver, he discovers the disturbing truth about his utopian world . . " A review by Amazon.com
Monday, October 6, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
"I love this book. It was packed with action and drama. It was very interesting!" Reviewed by Chris, Hemphill Branch reader!
"Jamal, who is pressured to become leader of the Scorpions gang, worries about school, family, and the rough kids on the street. When a fellow gang member gives him a gun, Jamal suddenly gains a new level of respect from his enemies. A realistic look at a boy who wants to do the right thing but gets caught up in the culture of violence. " School Library Journal
A Newberry Honor Award winner!"It was a love story . . . just as good as Romeo and Juliette!" Reviewed by Bria, loyal Hemphill Branch teen reader!
"A contemporary retelling of the Romeo and Juliet story with a happy, upbeat ending. Sixteen-year-old Julio Montague's parents have moved their family to Cincinnati, OH, in order to get their son out of his gang-ridden high school in Corpus Christi, TX. Romiette Cappelle, also 16, is the daughter of successful African-American parents and the granddaughter of college professors. When these two young people, both from proud heritages, begin a romance, they must deal not only with their parents' prejudices but also with the threats of a local gang" School Library Journal
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
"This was an interesting historical Christian fiction book, full of romance and intrigue, but the description (in) the book slows the plot down somewhat. It is the first of a trilogy, and I will definately read its sequel" Reviewed by Hannah, Hemphill Library teen reader!
Robbie's note: "Our library has the audio CDs for this book. Check it out!"