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Seven #3
Jump Cut
Spencer loves movies, but real life is boring, right? When his late grandfather's will reveals the tasks he wants his grandsons to undertake, Spencer thinks he got screwed. He's not going to France or Spain or Africa. He's not even getting a cool tattoo, like his younger brother. No, he's going to Buffalo to get a kiss from an ancient movie star. Gross. And he's supposed to film it. Grosser. But Spencer hasn't bargained on Gloria Lorraine, star of the silver screen back in the day. Gloria has big plans--plans that involve her granddaughter AmberLea, a gun, a baker who might be a gangster, some real gangsters and a road trip to Nowheresville, Ontario. After being shot at, jumping into an icy lake and confronting some angry bikers, Spencer finally realizes that real life can be as exciting (and dangerous) as reel life.
232 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
21 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 28, 2016
In this book Spencer's grandpa die's and In his will it says that Spencer will go to Buffalo to film Spencer getting a kiss on the cheek from Gloria Lorraine for Spencer's grandpa. When Spencer meets Gloria Lorraine she says that they have to do some errands before she gives Spencer a kiss. on the way they meet AmberLea Gloria Lorraine's granddaughter and Al a baker who acts like a gangster. Al tells the rest of the gang about how people want him dead. AmberLea finds a tracking device on Mister Bones Al's dogs collar and AmberLea throws it away. They stop at Gloria Lorraine's cottage for the night. When they wake up they start driving to marathon. When they get to marathon they stop at a motel for the night before they go to Jackfish. At the motel they meet Gloria Lorraine's brother Mikey and his son Little Mike. They talk about Mikey and Gloria Lorraine's life in Jackfish and talk about how spencer grandpa was supposed to get a get by kiss Gloria Lorraine. The next morning they go to Jackfish for the kiss. When they get there they start walking down train until bikers come with guns and people who want Al dead. After hiding for a while Spencer distracts them bikers and the other guys while AmberLea gets a cell phone signal. She calls the cops and they arrest the bikers, the guys who want Al, and Al. Gloria Lorraine gets in a ambulance and she gives Spencer his kiss on film.
What I liked about this is that Gloria Lorraine knew Spencer's grandpa as a teenager in Jackfish. I also liked is how Al was always suspicious with being baker/gangster and he would rages at very odd times in the book.
The things I didn't liked this book is there were to much mysteries and it got way to confusing. What didn't like there wasn't barley any action since I love action!!!
My overall rating is 3 stars because I wish there was more action and way to less mystery in the book so it wouldn't be so confusing.
by Tate Shaw
What I liked about this is that Gloria Lorraine knew Spencer's grandpa as a teenager in Jackfish. I also liked is how Al was always suspicious with being baker/gangster and he would rages at very odd times in the book.
The things I didn't liked this book is there were to much mysteries and it got way to confusing. What didn't like there wasn't barley any action since I love action!!!
My overall rating is 3 stars because I wish there was more action and way to less mystery in the book so it wouldn't be so confusing.
by Tate Shaw
January 29, 2016
In Jump Cut Spencer wants to be a filmmaker of Drug Lords, Cars, Gangsters and Hot chicks. But he then finds out that his Grandpas will, will change everything. In the will there is letters for all of the cousins including him. In the letter Spencer gets, he is suppose to get a kiss on the cheek from famous actor, Gloria Loraine who lives in Buffalo. When he gets to Gloria Loraine's retirement home and asks for the kiss, she says that she needed him to do a few favors first. Spencer then finds out that the favor was to pretty much travel across half the country. Now he's in a car with a Retired actor, a suspicious baker, and a teenage girl on house arrest that in Spencer's eyes is Hot. The baker is being chased by mobsters for some "Icing Sugar" in the back of the car. The mobsters then catch up with them to find out it really only is icing sugar.
I thought was interesting but it kept dragging on for too long. I don't know why so many people hate on this book. I rated it a 3 star, but I wish there were the option for half stars because I would rate it 3.5. If I had to change anything in the book it would be to not have so many mysteries and to make it more understandable. I hope the rest of the series is a bit better than this ( not that this is that bad).
I thought was interesting but it kept dragging on for too long. I don't know why so many people hate on this book. I rated it a 3 star, but I wish there were the option for half stars because I would rate it 3.5. If I had to change anything in the book it would be to not have so many mysteries and to make it more understandable. I hope the rest of the series is a bit better than this ( not that this is that bad).
July 21, 2020
2020 Review: Surprisingly, the exact same likes and dislikes came out of this re-read. Usually I will find more positives after reading a book a second time, but this one is just not one of my favourites.
2016 Review: I may have considered a 3 star rating if this was a stand-alone book. However, since it is part of a series (written by different authors), I didn't feel that it matched the overall feel of the series so far.
The first 2 books of this series (Between Heaven and Earth and Lost Cause) read as if they could have happened in real life. This book did not. An underage kid driving from the US to Canada with complete strangers, and his father covers for him? Gangsters shooting at him? It wasn't plausible or realistic.
The actual story of why Spencer's grandfather wanted the kiss on the cheek was interesting. The entire gangster storyline was just plain bad. The ending was confusing (and I've taught middle school English classes)! A story focusing solely on Spencer, Gloria Lorraine, and AmberLea would have been much better. I did find the bits about Bunny to be interesting. Bunny definitely has some issues going on. I'm interested to find out more about him in the next book.
Off to book four!
2016 Review: I may have considered a 3 star rating if this was a stand-alone book. However, since it is part of a series (written by different authors), I didn't feel that it matched the overall feel of the series so far.
The first 2 books of this series (Between Heaven and Earth and Lost Cause) read as if they could have happened in real life. This book did not. An underage kid driving from the US to Canada with complete strangers, and his father covers for him? Gangsters shooting at him? It wasn't plausible or realistic.
The actual story of why Spencer's grandfather wanted the kiss on the cheek was interesting. The entire gangster storyline was just plain bad. The ending was confusing (and I've taught middle school English classes)! A story focusing solely on Spencer, Gloria Lorraine, and AmberLea would have been much better. I did find the bits about Bunny to be interesting. Bunny definitely has some issues going on. I'm interested to find out more about him in the next book.
Off to book four!
September 30, 2012
I received this book from the early reviewers club on librarything, and I was very surprised at how fast I read this book! I loved the story it is appropriate for all ages and super funny! I can't help saying that GL the old lady/ actress in the book reminds me of the madea movies:) I thought the book was great, it's about a boy named spencer who is asked in his grandfathers will to go to buffalo and tape GL kissing him on the cheek, but little did he know GL would hijack a car at the retirement home and make him and her grand daughter go on a journey with her and there is a little something in the trunk they discover when they hear thumping coming from the back end of the car! I don't want to sit and spoil this entire book I will just say YES and two thumbs up for Ted Stauntton. I really liked the book and all the characters were so real and funny and I would recommend this book to anyone who likes some adventure and a good laugh. Thanks Mr. Staunton for such a wonderful book and am so appreciative for my copy of it.
January 8, 2022
This whole series is amazing, but this one isn't quite the level of the rest. Good story, unclear ending, different vibe than other books in the series.
November 6, 2017
In “Jump Cut” the third book in the “Seven” series Spencer O’Toole a fifteen-year-old budding filmmaker has been tasked by his grandfather David McLean with hunting down an old movie star, and to film her kissing him on his cheek. When he discovers Gloria Lorraine (GL) living at the Erie Estates Lodge he never expects that she will take him on a road trip to a backwoods town in northern Ontario with her granddaughter Amberlea, and a baker with mob ties.
Well-developed although the dialogue seemed stilted in places. Ted Staunton quickly builds intensity and suspense as the road trip takes a sinister turn after Spencer, GL and Amberlea discover Al Capoli and his Chihuahua tied up in the trunk of the white Cadillac convertible she absconds with from the parking lot of the retirement home. As events unfold in this engaging tale, the action escalates with the four ducking gunshots and escaping angry bikers only to have Spencer swallowing his fear and jumping into an icy lake. Spencer and Amberlea discover there’s never a dull moment with GL who is out to change their lives as she takes a journey that will bring her face to face with her past.
Amid all the hijinks with their confrontations with the bikers and the fear that the stash in the trunk might be more than sugar, there is a lot of humor especially with GL and her stops for martini’s and a “Dependable” as well as an emotional encounter in her past when she retrieves a locket with a worn picture inside.
Skilfully Ted Staunton creates characters who bring the story to life with their complicated but intriguing lives. Spencer O’Toole is a likable but nerdy teen who’s awkward around girls until he meets headstrong and lively Amberlea, the granddaughter of determined and charismatic Gloria Lorraine who always seems to get what she wants. Al Capoli, King of Cannoli a baker eluding gangsters in a black SUV because of a scheme gone wrong seems dishonest and untrustworthy although more personable the further away he gets from danger.
I enjoyed “Jump Cut” and Spencer O’Toole a teen caught up in a dangerous adventure. Short in length, and easy reading it will appeal to younger teens.
Well-developed although the dialogue seemed stilted in places. Ted Staunton quickly builds intensity and suspense as the road trip takes a sinister turn after Spencer, GL and Amberlea discover Al Capoli and his Chihuahua tied up in the trunk of the white Cadillac convertible she absconds with from the parking lot of the retirement home. As events unfold in this engaging tale, the action escalates with the four ducking gunshots and escaping angry bikers only to have Spencer swallowing his fear and jumping into an icy lake. Spencer and Amberlea discover there’s never a dull moment with GL who is out to change their lives as she takes a journey that will bring her face to face with her past.
Amid all the hijinks with their confrontations with the bikers and the fear that the stash in the trunk might be more than sugar, there is a lot of humor especially with GL and her stops for martini’s and a “Dependable” as well as an emotional encounter in her past when she retrieves a locket with a worn picture inside.
Skilfully Ted Staunton creates characters who bring the story to life with their complicated but intriguing lives. Spencer O’Toole is a likable but nerdy teen who’s awkward around girls until he meets headstrong and lively Amberlea, the granddaughter of determined and charismatic Gloria Lorraine who always seems to get what she wants. Al Capoli, King of Cannoli a baker eluding gangsters in a black SUV because of a scheme gone wrong seems dishonest and untrustworthy although more personable the further away he gets from danger.
I enjoyed “Jump Cut” and Spencer O’Toole a teen caught up in a dangerous adventure. Short in length, and easy reading it will appeal to younger teens.
July 27, 2022
Spencer runs into trouble when he has a task to fulfill....his grandfather's last wishes. He has to capture a video as he gets a kiss from an old movie star who's living in a retirement home in Buffalo, NY. Gloria Lorraine has a totally different plan when Spencer goes to meet her. They end up on a rollicking adventure caught up in a drug deal gone bad.
February 4, 2018
The third in the seven series - this one includes drugs, house arrest, gangs, film stars, and mobsters. It was lightly ridiculous. I am learning more about the grandpa; he is more interesting to me than the rest of his family.
November 11, 2018
A quick and easy read that's a lot of fun. It's a madcap adventure from start to finish. Thanks to LibraryThing for the free copy!
January 15, 2026
good book. The only problem is the storyline is a bit hard to follow.
June 21, 2025
its for school dont judge😮💨
April 21, 2014
When Spencer's grandfather passes away...
He leaves his seven grandsons each a special task.
Spencer wants to be a filmmaker... His task is to
find his grandfather's favorite actress Gloria Lorraine,
and have her give him a kiss on the cheek... On camera!
Spencer is supplied with money for a good video camera and traveling needs
by his grandfather's lawyer. His mission is to fly to Buffalo and find an actress who might not even be alive!
Spencer wanted to film exciting things.. Like fast cars, mobsters, drug lords..
He never expected to be filming some old lady, he found it a waste of time.. And effort.
He was shy unlike his brother and cousins...
He'd rather watch from afar then actually get involved in many things.
After starting his journey to fulfill his task...
He found himself on a quest full of adventure.
Instead of anything being boring, it was the complete opposite...
Spencer coils with responsibility, becoming mature, a whole lot of trouble, obstacles, and motorcycle gangs.
In the end.. He had himself a great movie.
I really enjoyed this book. This book is packed with action and adventure. Very nice and exciting cliff hangers and a lot of humor.
Every chapter had me hooked and left excited. Couldn't put it down. The way the author chose to write the book is very unique. The format and layout are understandable and make sense of the story, also allows you to connect with why the book might be written that way. For example:Pg.3
"LAWYER: Spencer. Good, we can get started. Gentlemen...
WIDE SHOT- GROUP AROUND DESK: All sit around desk in leather chairs.
SPENCER: Sorry I'm late."
The format is written as if Spencer was making a movie. I think this is a very smart and unique idea. I did find it slightly confusing, because it kept switching from that format to normal writing. Staunton wrote with voice and did not fail to bring feeling to every word. I could put myself in the protagonist's shoes. Used many techniques to hook you in to what would happen next. Very realistic and well written. Everything made sense in my mind, writing flowed well with the idea of the book. The author gave that reading between the lines aspect to the book. Always something to interest you in the chapter. The story itself was very exciting and full of action. It did not let my imagination down. I could draw an image of the story in my head. Writing did not drag on and always got me connecting to stories, the world,and with myself. Also, the protagonist, Spencer, was a very interesting. His personality was unique. He was not very active and timid, but his mind was always thinking, very playful.. Full of ideas. The protagonist made the book fascinating as well.
The novel takes place in two places, Toronto Canada and later on in Buffolo, New York... Where all the exciting action takes place.
I would recommend this book to anybody who loves action and excitement. Also, anybody who likes film making and the elderly. This book has lots of humor and twists and turns that will keep you from putting this book down. That's why I have given 'Jump Cut' four stars. This book will not dissatisfy you.
He leaves his seven grandsons each a special task.
Spencer wants to be a filmmaker... His task is to
find his grandfather's favorite actress Gloria Lorraine,
and have her give him a kiss on the cheek... On camera!
Spencer is supplied with money for a good video camera and traveling needs
by his grandfather's lawyer. His mission is to fly to Buffalo and find an actress who might not even be alive!
Spencer wanted to film exciting things.. Like fast cars, mobsters, drug lords..
He never expected to be filming some old lady, he found it a waste of time.. And effort.
He was shy unlike his brother and cousins...
He'd rather watch from afar then actually get involved in many things.
After starting his journey to fulfill his task...
He found himself on a quest full of adventure.
Instead of anything being boring, it was the complete opposite...
Spencer coils with responsibility, becoming mature, a whole lot of trouble, obstacles, and motorcycle gangs.
In the end.. He had himself a great movie.
I really enjoyed this book. This book is packed with action and adventure. Very nice and exciting cliff hangers and a lot of humor.
Every chapter had me hooked and left excited. Couldn't put it down. The way the author chose to write the book is very unique. The format and layout are understandable and make sense of the story, also allows you to connect with why the book might be written that way. For example:Pg.3
"LAWYER: Spencer. Good, we can get started. Gentlemen...
WIDE SHOT- GROUP AROUND DESK: All sit around desk in leather chairs.
SPENCER: Sorry I'm late."
The format is written as if Spencer was making a movie. I think this is a very smart and unique idea. I did find it slightly confusing, because it kept switching from that format to normal writing. Staunton wrote with voice and did not fail to bring feeling to every word. I could put myself in the protagonist's shoes. Used many techniques to hook you in to what would happen next. Very realistic and well written. Everything made sense in my mind, writing flowed well with the idea of the book. The author gave that reading between the lines aspect to the book. Always something to interest you in the chapter. The story itself was very exciting and full of action. It did not let my imagination down. I could draw an image of the story in my head. Writing did not drag on and always got me connecting to stories, the world,and with myself. Also, the protagonist, Spencer, was a very interesting. His personality was unique. He was not very active and timid, but his mind was always thinking, very playful.. Full of ideas. The protagonist made the book fascinating as well.
The novel takes place in two places, Toronto Canada and later on in Buffolo, New York... Where all the exciting action takes place.
I would recommend this book to anybody who loves action and excitement. Also, anybody who likes film making and the elderly. This book has lots of humor and twists and turns that will keep you from putting this book down. That's why I have given 'Jump Cut' four stars. This book will not dissatisfy you.
December 29, 2018
This book is part of the Seven series when the grandchildren are trying to fulfill the wishes of their deceased grandfather. In this book, a young man tries to secure a kiss from his grandad's favourite starlet. High jinks ensue.
July 4, 2014
I heard a presentation by Mr. Staunton (and a couple other authors) and it moved up the Seven series on my list.
So now that I've borrowed the series, (and was told there was no order), I'm going to go find Ink Me ASAP.
The interwining of the two stories was awesome. I loved how the bits connected together. I haven't read Ink Me yet, but I love the complexity. Seven grandsons, and I'm sure once you read the last book it will all fit together. It's absolutely awesome how one event can set off all of these reactions. I like this idea a lot.
Also, I'm happy with the way the script fit into the novel. As it's in the opening chapter, I was really put off right away. Last book I read in stage directions was awful, and I wasn't prepared for that again. But I like the way this turned out, with normal novelness and the script really working out. I may not have understood all the camera angles, but it helped the novel create more depth.
I liked Spencer's character, his emotions and his reactions. They were really well written.
Also the suspense was fantastic.
Let's please give a round of applause for the setting. Yay for books set in Canada!
However, at the beginning of the novel I had a hard time getting into it. Mainly because of plot holes. I understand that things have to get going, but . I understand you have to suspend some disbelief for the novel to get going, but it was a bit much.
I must go get the next book.
So now that I've borrowed the series, (and was told there was no order), I'm going to go find Ink Me ASAP.
The interwining of the two stories was awesome. I loved how the bits connected together. I haven't read Ink Me yet, but I love the complexity. Seven grandsons, and I'm sure once you read the last book it will all fit together. It's absolutely awesome how one event can set off all of these reactions. I like this idea a lot.
Also, I'm happy with the way the script fit into the novel. As it's in the opening chapter, I was really put off right away. Last book I read in stage directions was awful, and I wasn't prepared for that again. But I like the way this turned out, with normal novelness and the script really working out. I may not have understood all the camera angles, but it helped the novel create more depth.
I liked Spencer's character, his emotions and his reactions. They were really well written.
Also the suspense was fantastic.
Let's please give a round of applause for the setting. Yay for books set in Canada!
However, at the beginning of the novel I had a hard time getting into it. Mainly because of plot holes. I understand that things have to get going, but . I understand you have to suspend some disbelief for the novel to get going, but it was a bit much.
I must go get the next book.
January 16, 2014
This is the fifth book I've read in this series and, while I'm highly pleased with series as a whole, at this time I can fairly say this has been my favourite title to date and may be the best in the whole series. I do still have Shane Peacock's entry to read, though, so I'll reserve final judgement till then. Hooked from the beginning, this is a classic tale of boy's adventure. The main character is 17yo film director wannabe Spencer and his quest from the Grandfather involves filming his task. Filmmaking, movies, the "pictures" is a major theme here and the book reads as if it is a movie. Pure action from start to finish, with admittedly over-the-top events accumulating on top of one another. One has to suspend belief for this tale, but it is obvious the author has written the plot like this on purpose as real life is compared and contrasted to movies frequently. Involving hidden secrets from the past, drug deals, bikers, mafia and a race against time, I found this story to be both exciting and good fun. The events of this and Ink Me are tied to one another, in that what is happening in one affects the plot of the other, but this is conveyed to the brothers through texts and it won't matter which one you read first. Though having already read Ink Me, I completely understood what was happening with that aspect of this plot. It's wonderful to read a book where you love all the characters and here I certainly did, right down to the dog, Mistah Bones. And GL, the grandma? Let me say, everybody is going to want to go out and get themselves a 90yo grandma after meeting her. Staunton is a new author for me. I've only just read his latest book "Who I'm Not" and look forward to his further ventures in Young Adult action/suspense.
January 27, 2016
Jump Cut is about a boy named Spencer whose grandpa passes away. His grandpa had written a letter to him and said that Spencer needs to get a kiss from his grandpa’s favourite actress Gloria Lorraine. Gloria Lorraine made Spencer work for the kiss, so there was a ton of adventure and they meet lots of interesting people along the way.
What I liked about the book was all the mysteries in the book. Ted Staunton did a good job with the mystery aspect. I also liked the detail that Staunton put into the characters. Every character in the book had their foibles and quirks. That is what made the book interesting. Gloria Lorraine would put a cigarette between her lips but never light it; she did it because she liked to pose with it. Amberlea was a grumpy teenager that was on house arrest. Al the King of Cannoli was a large guy that had a trunk full of icing sugar, but the whole time everyone thought it was drugs. Spencer was a filmmaker that was very passionate about movies.
What I didn’t like about the book was that it seemed like there was too many characters and too many things going on at once. I kept getting confused about who was who. This really made the book hard to understand at some points and really made me enjoy it less that I wish I could’ve.
I would give this book a solid 3 stars because it had a good storyline and great detail. What brought it down was the fact that it was just too confusing; I would’ve enjoyed this book a lot more if there weren’t so many characters.
What I liked about the book was all the mysteries in the book. Ted Staunton did a good job with the mystery aspect. I also liked the detail that Staunton put into the characters. Every character in the book had their foibles and quirks. That is what made the book interesting. Gloria Lorraine would put a cigarette between her lips but never light it; she did it because she liked to pose with it. Amberlea was a grumpy teenager that was on house arrest. Al the King of Cannoli was a large guy that had a trunk full of icing sugar, but the whole time everyone thought it was drugs. Spencer was a filmmaker that was very passionate about movies.
What I didn’t like about the book was that it seemed like there was too many characters and too many things going on at once. I kept getting confused about who was who. This really made the book hard to understand at some points and really made me enjoy it less that I wish I could’ve.
I would give this book a solid 3 stars because it had a good storyline and great detail. What brought it down was the fact that it was just too confusing; I would’ve enjoyed this book a lot more if there weren’t so many characters.
May 13, 2013
Spencer's grandfather recently passed away and has left him, his brother, and all his cousins a task to complete. Unfortunately for Spencer, his task is to film Gloria Lorraine, an old movie star, giving him a kiss. He finds her and tries to get the kiss so he can get away, but before he gets the kiss Gloria drags him away. Spencer and Amber, Gloria's granddaughter, has to help Gloria complete a task before Spencer gets a kiss. Spencer learns more about Gloria and who she truly is on the trip to Jackfish. He learns that she's not who she appears to be and that she has a mysterious history involving his grandfather. Spencer gets his kiss in the end but also gains experience in film-making and an interesting story.
I picked this book because I've already read two other books in the series and I want to read all of them. I finished this book because I wanted to know what Gloria's secret was and how she knew Spencer's grandfather.
I would recommend this book to Esther because she's read one of the books in the series and I think that she would enjoy this one since it has a mystery in it.
Jump Cut was fun to read and showed me that you can't judge a book by it's cover. The message, "look underneath the underneath" is an important message conveyed by this book. Jump Cut is a novel, filled with excitement and mystery, that anyone would enjoy reading.
I picked this book because I've already read two other books in the series and I want to read all of them. I finished this book because I wanted to know what Gloria's secret was and how she knew Spencer's grandfather.
I would recommend this book to Esther because she's read one of the books in the series and I think that she would enjoy this one since it has a mystery in it.
Jump Cut was fun to read and showed me that you can't judge a book by it's cover. The message, "look underneath the underneath" is an important message conveyed by this book. Jump Cut is a novel, filled with excitement and mystery, that anyone would enjoy reading.
March 16, 2014
Film a kiss from an old lady. Really? Spencer's whole mission is to do that. Sounds easy, let's go to Buffalo and get the shot and come back. But things did not go so easily. Gloria Lorraine, the movie star of the 1900's, has taken him all around the place from Buffalo all the way to the north side of Lake Superior, and stories become twisted up. Spencer's suspicions get high as he sees strange and unusual things happening around him. But he will soon realize at the end of this trip, that this Gloria Lorraine could actually make all his dreams come true, of being a true filmmaker.
I chose this book, because it was one of the only books left on the Red Maple shelf. Aiyana and Alexa recommended this book to me, they said it was really funny.
At first, before I borrowed this book, I thought it was going to be VERY boring. I thought: "How can you have a whole book made up of only a story of a boy filming a kiss?" But this book is full of adventure, and the stories kind of get all twisted up, somethings you wouldn't have expected to happen. There are some funny parts in this story. The story takes you from Buffalo, New York to Jackfish, Ontario, from movie stars to possibly drug smugglers, from cottages to gangs, it's a really cool story.
i recommend this book to Andrew, who likes adventure, and tech, so I think this book would be a very good match for him.
I chose this book, because it was one of the only books left on the Red Maple shelf. Aiyana and Alexa recommended this book to me, they said it was really funny.
At first, before I borrowed this book, I thought it was going to be VERY boring. I thought: "How can you have a whole book made up of only a story of a boy filming a kiss?" But this book is full of adventure, and the stories kind of get all twisted up, somethings you wouldn't have expected to happen. There are some funny parts in this story. The story takes you from Buffalo, New York to Jackfish, Ontario, from movie stars to possibly drug smugglers, from cottages to gangs, it's a really cool story.
i recommend this book to Andrew, who likes adventure, and tech, so I think this book would be a very good match for him.
January 29, 2016
Jump Cut is a fiction story of a 17 year old boy who’s grandfather’s dying wish to him is to get a kiss from a very old retired Hollywood movie star. I didn’t really enjoy the book. I think it was rushed into where they were going. There was also too much forced humor that ruined some parts of the book, like how someone always brought up the ‘nose candy’. I also don’t understand the strange action Amberlea always did (sucked in her chin-how would you even do that?).
There was some character development, but Spencer was supposed to learn from Gloria Lorraine, but he did not make a change in personality much. Throughout he was still really nervous and fidgety. I was thinking he would grow braver than he was at the end. The book also didn’t have any sad, part. Most books have a part where everything seems hopeless, and the closest thing to one was when Spencer confronted the gangs. I also think there could have been a better relationship between spencer and the other main characters. I did like some of the humor from Gloria Lorraine throughout the book.
Lastly, I think there could have been a more important antagonist than the ones that were in the book. The black van was the antagonist, which contained gangsters who were angry with Al over confusion with delivering drugs. I believe this book is an average novel, nothing really special.
There was some character development, but Spencer was supposed to learn from Gloria Lorraine, but he did not make a change in personality much. Throughout he was still really nervous and fidgety. I was thinking he would grow braver than he was at the end. The book also didn’t have any sad, part. Most books have a part where everything seems hopeless, and the closest thing to one was when Spencer confronted the gangs. I also think there could have been a better relationship between spencer and the other main characters. I did like some of the humor from Gloria Lorraine throughout the book.
Lastly, I think there could have been a more important antagonist than the ones that were in the book. The black van was the antagonist, which contained gangsters who were angry with Al over confusion with delivering drugs. I believe this book is an average novel, nothing really special.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2016
In the book jump cut Spencer's grandfather dies and him and all his cousins get assignment as his grandpas last wish. Spencer has to get a kiss on the cheek by Gloria Loraine, his grandpas favourite actor. Spencer thought it was going to be a simple kiss on the cheek but he gets pulled onto a big journey where he meets al, a suspicious baker and amber-lea who is GL's grand daughter and in Spencer's opinion pretty hot. They go all over and end up trying to get to a graveyard but get caught by the people al was supposed to deal drugs to. Just in time amber-lea calls the cops and the other guys get caught. GL collapses and Spencer gets his kiss in an unexpected way. In Jump Cut I was interested the whole time. I had the urge to keep reading, but I was very confused, I feel like the author Ted Staunton was squishing in too many mysteries. I understand it was a mystery novel, but it felt like fourteen different mystery novels because there was too much happening. The ending is very interesting, but again I feel like there was too much happening. If I were to change this novel I would have maybe not introduced certain mysteries but I do enjoy a good mystery and that is why I gave jump cut a three star rating!
February 13, 2014
I liked this installment in the Seven Series! The main character, Spencer, started out being an idiot but gradually emerged as a vulnerable kid, often over-shadowed by his macho cousins and alpha dog grandfather. Character development is not a feature of the Seven Series. Usually we meet a boy who needs fixing in some way and is dealt a Heavy Life Lesson that changes him for the good. Presto! Spencer ends up the better for his grandfather-mandated adventure, but his story is more wacky fun than moralizing quest, which I liked. The mobsters and the bikers are funny. Aged glamour girl Gloria Lorraine is a poster girl for a hard-living Hollywood star in the reflective twilight of her life. Amber Lee is not much of a presence, but Spencer's growing appreciation for her skinny jeans gives her a role and her link with her grandmother makes sense of some aspects of the plot. Finally, like Spencer, I was curious! What the hell was going on? When I hit the last page, the answers worked for me as well as they needed to in this improbable roadtrip yarn.
August 4, 2014
My sons and I are working our way through "Seven: The Series" - this is the second book we've read so far. We started with Devil's Pass, which I liked a bit more, but my sons were mixed on which of the books they preferred.
This is a solid series. So far I like the quality of the writing, and the definitely Canadian settings. Both books have been quite readable.
A plus for us is these are seven stories about seven grandsons. I do think my boys are at the age where they like reading about other boys, and so, in that way, these are "boy-friendly" books which are simple, straightforward, and contemporary.
I find many books aimed at a boy audience either try to draw on fart-and-snot humour, or try to be really BIG stories - with crazy action, fantasy, etc. It's nice that these are realistic, quieter books - still with action, but also with character development.
Not sure which one we'll move onto next ... TBD.
This is a solid series. So far I like the quality of the writing, and the definitely Canadian settings. Both books have been quite readable.
A plus for us is these are seven stories about seven grandsons. I do think my boys are at the age where they like reading about other boys, and so, in that way, these are "boy-friendly" books which are simple, straightforward, and contemporary.
I find many books aimed at a boy audience either try to draw on fart-and-snot humour, or try to be really BIG stories - with crazy action, fantasy, etc. It's nice that these are realistic, quieter books - still with action, but also with character development.
Not sure which one we'll move onto next ... TBD.
September 18, 2012
Jump Cut was one of those books that can be enjoyed time and time again. It was a quick, easy read, and I will be sharing it with family and friends, young and old.
The story itself was so engrossing; I never wanted it to end. Spencer’s grandpa seemed like a nice old man, and when GL told her story I choked up a few times. I feel that during Spencer’s journey, he grew closer to his grandfather, even after death.
Every character in this book, right down to the little Chihuahua, are developed with heart. They have feelings for miles, and I felt connected to every single one of them.
I’m excited to read the rest of this series. I’m sure Grandpa David sent each of his grandsons on some really cool adventures. Although, I’m not sure any will be as interesting as Spencer’s story was. Also, I loved how Bunny’s story tied into Spencer’s at some parts! Really cool.
The story itself was so engrossing; I never wanted it to end. Spencer’s grandpa seemed like a nice old man, and when GL told her story I choked up a few times. I feel that during Spencer’s journey, he grew closer to his grandfather, even after death.
Every character in this book, right down to the little Chihuahua, are developed with heart. They have feelings for miles, and I felt connected to every single one of them.
I’m excited to read the rest of this series. I’m sure Grandpa David sent each of his grandsons on some really cool adventures. Although, I’m not sure any will be as interesting as Spencer’s story was. Also, I loved how Bunny’s story tied into Spencer’s at some parts! Really cool.
April 12, 2013
First off, this doesn't seem like a series you need to read in any particular order. Each of the seven books tell the story through one of the grandsons, and the novels overlap each other in time. You'll get more if you read several, especially if you read ones about siblings. Spencer is Bunny's brother, so he gets quick messages about Bunny's task (Ink Me).
This was a very fast, middle grade read. The story is gender neutral, which is great. There are elements that will probably attract boys more, and some that will draw girls more. But it was the gangster part of the story line that really kept the story moving along. One thing I liked most was that Spencer seems to be more of an introverted character, and not the stereotypical boy who likes sports and showing off. If you are looking for a contemporary middle grade novel that is not romantic in nature, you should check this out.
This was a very fast, middle grade read. The story is gender neutral, which is great. There are elements that will probably attract boys more, and some that will draw girls more. But it was the gangster part of the story line that really kept the story moving along. One thing I liked most was that Spencer seems to be more of an introverted character, and not the stereotypical boy who likes sports and showing off. If you are looking for a contemporary middle grade novel that is not romantic in nature, you should check this out.
January 10, 2014
I had a difficult time getting to the end of this book. It started off with a good story line but most of the middle seemed like filler. It was generally uneventful and not much of what happened seem to link to the ending other that it was what happened after the beginning. I must say though was satisfied with the ending and was pleasantly surprised. Although the book didn't have a significant impact on me, I think it being part of the seven series gives it particular appeal. I am interested in reading the rest of the series for sure. I also think that this book would be particularly appealing for boys and would be a great recommendation for grades 7 and 8. It has a bit of material (teen pregnancy, drugs, relationships) that lends itself to older students, however it is very light and not graphic in nature.
February 2, 2014
Spencer wants to be a filmmaker but on his grandpa's will Spencer has to get a kiss from a old ninety year old movie star Gloria Lorraine.Spencer was shocked everyone had big and exciting adventures but Spencer, he gets to kiss a ninety year old lady in buffalo.Spencer is not happy. Something Spencer doesn't know is that this old lady can make his dreams come true.I wanted to read this book because I wanted know more about Gloria Lorraine because she's doing a lot no ninety year old lady would do . I think not even a lady over 50 would do that . I finished this book because I can't really leave a book unfinished .Plus Gloria was really funny. This book was okay but really draggy . It had a good plot. I would recommend this to my brother Janaan and Thusanth since both of them enjoy adventure books
February 22, 2017
Spencer's grandfather has died and left a strange request in his will. Actually there are seven strange requests. Spencer needs to find an old movie star from the 1940s and get her to kiss him. The first part turns out to be pretty easy. What Spencer doesn't know is that Miss Gloria Lorraine will be taking him on an adventure, if he is going to earn that kiss.
I picked this book up as it is one of this year's Red Maple nominees. It is also part of Seven the Series, and I have already read another book in the series.
I finished it because I liked Spencer's character. He is not the rugged, adventure seeking hero. He is a geeky, film maker, thrust into a situation so outside his norm.
I would recommend this book to the boys in 7D. They may find the adventure interesting.
I picked this book up as it is one of this year's Red Maple nominees. It is also part of Seven the Series, and I have already read another book in the series.
I finished it because I liked Spencer's character. He is not the rugged, adventure seeking hero. He is a geeky, film maker, thrust into a situation so outside his norm.
I would recommend this book to the boys in 7D. They may find the adventure interesting.
April 8, 2015
Loved this book! At first, I hated it because there were snips of script writing and that turned me off, but I persevered. I am so thankful that I did. Jump Cut ties in nicely with Ink Me. The two stories are woven so beautifully together as the two brothers work on their individual tasks. You can see how the two authors worked closely together to ensure that their plots both work seamlessly. I remember being mildly confused during Ink Me as to why/how certain things were working, but it becomes crystal clear in Jump Cut. I am a little biased as the story takes the main characters through Sault Ste. Marie.
Overall, I loved this story and the entire series. I am so impressed with how this idea was executed. I can't wait to share it with my students.
Overall, I loved this story and the entire series. I am so impressed with how this idea was executed. I can't wait to share it with my students.
February 25, 2013
Each of the books in the Seven series follows a grandson as he carries out his grandfather's last request. Jump Cut is Spencer O'Toole's story. Because he dreams of being a filmmaker, Grandpa D sends Spencer to visit aging B-movie star Gloria Lorraine and film her giving him a kiss on the cheek. Spencer cannot understand the reason behind the request, but that is all part of what proves to be an interesting journey as Spencer, as do all good YA protagonists, learns a lot about himself along the way. This is a wonderful, quick read perfect for more reluctant readers or anyone who enjoys a good YA aimed at boys.
February 24, 2014
This is one of the few books that are not fantasy, or a manga, or a horror book, just a regular book, that I couldn't put down until i found out how it ends. The main character, Spencer, who wants to become a filmmaker, gets sucked into this crazy ride with a drug cartel, and a bike gang, and an old lady. Then gets shot at, pees himself a little, then gets kissed by a chick. Well, an old chick, and on the cheek. Twice. In the same 10 seconds... And he did it with pee in his pants still......(*cough**cough*foreveralone*cough*). Sounds legit. But it was a pretty good book and I would suggest it to anyone who likes books with a twist.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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