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Other Worlds
Ten incredible trips into the unknown await you...
Blast off with:
• Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo an all-new and exclusive tale from Rick Riordan
• A Day in the Life by award-winning author/illustrator Shaun Tan
• Rise of the RoboShoes by Tom Angleberger of Origami Yoda fame
And many more weird and wonderful stories by legendary writer Ray Bradbury, Newbery medalist Rebecca Stead, Shannon Hale, D. J. MacHale, Eric Nylund, Kenneth Oppel and Neal Shusterman.
Compiled by US National Ambassador for Children’s Literature (and Secret Ambassador for the Intergalactic Alliance) Jon Scieszka, Other Worlds will boldly take you where no reader has gone before.
Blast off with:
• Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo an all-new and exclusive tale from Rick Riordan
• A Day in the Life by award-winning author/illustrator Shaun Tan
• Rise of the RoboShoes by Tom Angleberger of Origami Yoda fame
And many more weird and wonderful stories by legendary writer Ray Bradbury, Newbery medalist Rebecca Stead, Shannon Hale, D. J. MacHale, Eric Nylund, Kenneth Oppel and Neal Shusterman.
Compiled by US National Ambassador for Children’s Literature (and Secret Ambassador for the Intergalactic Alliance) Jon Scieszka, Other Worlds will boldly take you where no reader has gone before.
331 pages, Paperback
First published September 13, 2013
191 people are currently reading
15369 people want to read
About the author
Jon Scieszka
257 books1,575 followersJon Scieszka is an American children's writer, best known for picture books created with the illustrator Lane Smith. He is also a nationally recognized reading advocate, and the founder of Guys Read – a web-based literacy program for boys whose mission is "to help boys become self-motivated, lifelong readers."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews
February 1, 2014
Since the series began, I’ve been keeping an eye on the Guys Read books. In theory, it’s a great idea, because more boys should be reading for fun. However, by marketing them as “guy” books, girls are being excluded and it’s continuing the idea that books are gendered. This story is ONLY for girls, and this one is ONLY for boys. As a concept, that needs to die, as it’s based on the sexist values inculcated in our society. They’re clearly making some effort to mold young minds in a good way, based on the inclusion of two female authors and one female MC, but the name itself is still troublesome. Shelving this, though, Guys Read: Other Worlds is a collection of fast-paced stories that will appeal to reluctant young readers, of either gender.
Read the full review at A Reader of Fictions.
Read the full review at A Reader of Fictions.
Want to read
August 7, 2013Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo an all-new and exclusive tale from Rick Riordan hopefully the library will get this since this is the only story I want to read in this one. I love the percy Jackson series
May 28, 2017
4 stars❤
I just love Percy Jackson..
I love his comments and his sarcasm xD❤
I also really like Apollo :P..
But, what is that cover? ..
This is a short book about a quest Apollo gave Percy and Grover..
Its very fun!! I enjoyed it, a lot!!❤
I just love Percy Jackson..
I love his comments and his sarcasm xD❤
I also really like Apollo :P..
But, what is that cover? ..
This is a short book about a quest Apollo gave Percy and Grover..
Its very fun!! I enjoyed it, a lot!!❤
January 4, 2015
Wait....what?
Is this a hoax? Is it real? Rick hasn't said ANYTHING about this on his blog (that I've seen), and I check it regularly....
Huh????
*UPDATE: READ*
Yeah, it's real! It's a short story in a collection of short stories by different authors. Very fun.
Is this a hoax? Is it real? Rick hasn't said ANYTHING about this on his blog (that I've seen), and I check it regularly....
Huh????
*UPDATE: READ*
Yeah, it's real! It's a short story in a collection of short stories by different authors. Very fun.
July 25, 2016
I know what you're going to ask.
'Percy Jackson, why are you hanging from a Times Square billboard without your pants on, about to fall to your death?'
Good Question. You can blame Apollo, god of music, archery, and poetry - also the god of making me do stupid quests.'
This is my FAVORITE short story!
Percy, Grover and Apollo is the best combination!
It is so hilarious.
You have to read it.
Now!
'Percy Jackson, why are you hanging from a Times Square billboard without your pants on, about to fall to your death?'
Good Question. You can blame Apollo, god of music, archery, and poetry - also the god of making me do stupid quests.'
This is my FAVORITE short story!
Percy, Grover and Apollo is the best combination!
It is so hilarious.
You have to read it.
Now!
October 6, 2016
GROVER!! honestly my favourite thing about percy jackson short stories is when annabeth isn't in them but percy keeps thinking about her. also #confirmed percy wears boxers
October 27, 2021
A very nice little collection of short stories from the fantasy, sci-fi and fiction region from a range of talented authors.
Mysteriously, I found this novel filed in the children's section - not YA even, children's. Perhaps on the strength of the Percy Jackson offering from Rick Riordan?
The Percy Jackson was the first in the book. Look, this series is what it is - defiantly child oriented and I find them too simplistic so it was ok, designed for people who have read and LOVED everything else in the series, I suspect, because much of it made no sense to me. Not brilliant. 1*
Next was Bouncing The Grinning Goat by Shannon Hale whose fairy tale retellings I really enjoy. Here she creates a strong female character who is determinedly making her own way in the world of sword and sorcery as a tavern bouncer. It is a LOT of fun, more of a YA story than a kid's story. Lots of well integrated humour in the story that makes it just fine for adults. 4*
The Scout by D. J. MacHale (who GR does not recognise) is a very interesting and insightful story about a scout who finds out his government is lying to him. It uses a really good story to address the questions of alien contact and aggression. Well worth reading for anyone. 3*
Rise of the RoboShoesTM by Tom Angleberger is a fun little tounge in cheek, semi illustrated story, just fine for kids of any age at all! 3*
The Dirt on Our Shoes by Neil Shusterman is very much a older children's, early teen story about where a colony ship is about to land on it's destination planet. This was I really enjoyed, because it was thoughtful and insightful. But is was a bit simplistic in several ways that mark it as aimed at children. An adult may find a little bit too much to question in it. I really like it though. 3*
Plan B by Rebecca Stead was a great little story with a very well done twist! Totally suited to any age at all. 4*
The short, graphic story from Shaun Tan A Day In The Life was as excellent as any by him are. A metaphysical examination of an (extremely magical realism-odd) day in the life of the author. Not what I think of as a kid's story, though many people see ANY graphics as exclusively child domain. 4*
The Klack Bros. Museum by Kenneth Oppel Is pure magical realism/ fiction and quite a decent story. 3*
Frost and Fire by Ray Bradbury is good. All I can say is that it is, a Ray Bradbury sci-fi story, very much so. Speculative, explorative and with his particular brand of edgy. I see no reason at all to imagine this is a children's story. 3*
Mysteriously, I found this novel filed in the children's section - not YA even, children's. Perhaps on the strength of the Percy Jackson offering from Rick Riordan?
The Percy Jackson was the first in the book. Look, this series is what it is - defiantly child oriented and I find them too simplistic so it was ok, designed for people who have read and LOVED everything else in the series, I suspect, because much of it made no sense to me. Not brilliant. 1*
Next was Bouncing The Grinning Goat by Shannon Hale whose fairy tale retellings I really enjoy. Here she creates a strong female character who is determinedly making her own way in the world of sword and sorcery as a tavern bouncer. It is a LOT of fun, more of a YA story than a kid's story. Lots of well integrated humour in the story that makes it just fine for adults. 4*
The Scout by D. J. MacHale (who GR does not recognise) is a very interesting and insightful story about a scout who finds out his government is lying to him. It uses a really good story to address the questions of alien contact and aggression. Well worth reading for anyone. 3*
Rise of the RoboShoesTM by Tom Angleberger is a fun little tounge in cheek, semi illustrated story, just fine for kids of any age at all! 3*
The Dirt on Our Shoes by Neil Shusterman is very much a older children's, early teen story about where a colony ship is about to land on it's destination planet. This was I really enjoyed, because it was thoughtful and insightful. But is was a bit simplistic in several ways that mark it as aimed at children. An adult may find a little bit too much to question in it. I really like it though. 3*
Plan B by Rebecca Stead was a great little story with a very well done twist! Totally suited to any age at all. 4*
The short, graphic story from Shaun Tan A Day In The Life was as excellent as any by him are. A metaphysical examination of an (extremely magical realism-odd) day in the life of the author. Not what I think of as a kid's story, though many people see ANY graphics as exclusively child domain. 4*
The Klack Bros. Museum by Kenneth Oppel Is pure magical realism/ fiction and quite a decent story. 3*
Frost and Fire by Ray Bradbury is good. All I can say is that it is, a Ray Bradbury sci-fi story, very much so. Speculative, explorative and with his particular brand of edgy. I see no reason at all to imagine this is a children's story. 3*
January 21, 2015
Well…that was way not worth the trouble I had to go through to read it.
It's not terrible, mind you. I guess. It's just…more of the same. You could take any filler chapter in a PJO book and replace it with this one, or vice versa. And I guess I kind of outgrew the original PJO series, so…meh. Without a plot to frame the whole thing, the pointlessness is even more apparent.
I also have to ask: why are the gods such idiots? You need to use music to capture the monster of the day, so you give the task to a hero with no musical talent whatsoever? I think Rick Riordan should remember that there's a bunch of other demigods in his world, and that they probably get quests all the time too. If there's no specific reason to involve Percy, don't involve Percy.
I don't know, maybe I'm being too bitter.
It's not terrible, mind you. I guess. It's just…more of the same. You could take any filler chapter in a PJO book and replace it with this one, or vice versa. And I guess I kind of outgrew the original PJO series, so…meh. Without a plot to frame the whole thing, the pointlessness is even more apparent.
I also have to ask: why are the gods such idiots? You need to use music to capture the monster of the day, so you give the task to a hero with no musical talent whatsoever? I think Rick Riordan should remember that there's a bunch of other demigods in his world, and that they probably get quests all the time too. If there's no specific reason to involve Percy, don't involve Percy.
I don't know, maybe I'm being too bitter.
April 5, 2020
This collection is intended to appeal to grade-school boys. (Boys sometimes get the impression that reading is only for girls. This book thus tries to appeal directly to them. Even so, two of the stories are written by women, and at least one has a female protagonist.)
While this was intended for younger readers, I enjoyed almost every story. Sure, they are mostly more simplistic than the adult fiction I typically read, they were still worth my time, and I greatly appreciated the large font. The story set in the Percy Jackson universe didn't work for me, but that's probably because I haven't read anything else in that series.
While this was intended for younger readers, I enjoyed almost every story. Sure, they are mostly more simplistic than the adult fiction I typically read, they were still worth my time, and I greatly appreciated the large font. The story set in the Percy Jackson universe didn't work for me, but that's probably because I haven't read anything else in that series.
January 14, 2018
If I had to come up with three funniest Percy Jackson characters on the spot it might just be Apollo, Grover and Percy Jackson. Whether it's Apollo's neverending ego, Grover's position of the loveable sidekick or the snarky main hero. So it should come to no surprise that this is one of the best short stories in this universe I've ever read.
Why? Because it is the perfect length to really capture the silly and funny side of the Percy Jackson series. This really felt just like the little quests they do in each PJO book leading up to the finale. Even though there's a lot less pressure and that's good for a short story. This is not groundbreaking and surprising but it shines because of its familiar tone.
This book is like that reunion with an old friend you've been missing like crazy - but didn't realize exactly HOW much until you finally meet up. You don't know why you've lost contact, but somehow life got in the way. This short story reminded me of what it was like reading the Percy Jackson and the Olympians for the first time a few summers ago. It was like I was sitting on the balcony again, drink at the side, just reading this as a break from my school workload.
Only this time around it was late at night. I was comfortable in bed and just finished Magnus Chase and the hammer of Thor. Before going to bed I was set on finishing this story. Sometimes when I'm really tired reading actually can feel like a chore. But if I don't do it I feel like I won't go to sleep as nicely. This time I was really tired, but reading was bliss. I smiled and even may have let out a laugh. I mean Percy Jackson, Apollo AND Grover.. what more could you want?
Why? Because it is the perfect length to really capture the silly and funny side of the Percy Jackson series. This really felt just like the little quests they do in each PJO book leading up to the finale. Even though there's a lot less pressure and that's good for a short story. This is not groundbreaking and surprising but it shines because of its familiar tone.
This book is like that reunion with an old friend you've been missing like crazy - but didn't realize exactly HOW much until you finally meet up. You don't know why you've lost contact, but somehow life got in the way. This short story reminded me of what it was like reading the Percy Jackson and the Olympians for the first time a few summers ago. It was like I was sitting on the balcony again, drink at the side, just reading this as a break from my school workload.
Only this time around it was late at night. I was comfortable in bed and just finished Magnus Chase and the hammer of Thor. Before going to bed I was set on finishing this story. Sometimes when I'm really tired reading actually can feel like a chore. But if I don't do it I feel like I won't go to sleep as nicely. This time I was really tired, but reading was bliss. I smiled and even may have let out a laugh. I mean Percy Jackson, Apollo AND Grover.. what more could you want?
February 7, 2016
Esta historia corta forma parte de una antologia de varios autores Guys Read: Other Worlds.
Es el cumpleaños de Grover, y Apolo viene con una tarea demandante ... relacionada con la música. No digo más porque lo contaria todo.
Why can't you just go?"
"I don't have time, I've got to practice! I've got to write a set list, do sound checks. Besides, that's what you heroes are for."
"Running the gods' errands."
"Exactly!" Apollo spread his hands.
Rápida y entretiene, sin mayores demandas ;)
Es el cumpleaños de Grover, y Apolo viene con una tarea demandante ... relacionada con la música. No digo más porque lo contaria todo.
Why can't you just go?"
"I don't have time, I've got to practice! I've got to write a set list, do sound checks. Besides, that's what you heroes are for."
"Running the gods' errands."
"Exactly!" Apollo spread his hands.
Rápida y entretiene, sin mayores demandas ;)
January 6, 2018
WHY NOVELLAS WHY?!?!
I think I should just stop reading them because I always want more! I can't accept 30 something pages or whatever. I need like 300 pages or something to be satisfied. However, I can't be mad because Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo was amazing. It will make you laugh consistently throughout this book. I loved every second of this book - I just wanted more. I always will when it comes to novellas, which is why I should probably stop reading them. But then again, I did want to read this entire series and I can proudly say that I think I have officially finished the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. I think this was the last novella I needed to read - but I'm like 90% sure.
I think I should just stop reading them because I always want more! I can't accept 30 something pages or whatever. I need like 300 pages or something to be satisfied. However, I can't be mad because Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo was amazing. It will make you laugh consistently throughout this book. I loved every second of this book - I just wanted more. I always will when it comes to novellas, which is why I should probably stop reading them. But then again, I did want to read this entire series and I can proudly say that I think I have officially finished the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. I think this was the last novella I needed to read - but I'm like 90% sure.
June 30, 2015
For those of you wondering where you can find this story, it can be found in the book: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
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Anyways, on to the actual story. I'm not going to lie; I was a bit disappointed by this. Maybe it's because this one was kind of short.
When I heard about this story, I was really excited. I couldn't wait to read another first POV Percy story, especially after reading all of Rick's other short stories which were basically perfect. I'm not saying this story was bad. It was still funny and action-filled as usual, but I found it to be mediocre.
-----
Anyways, on to the actual story. I'm not going to lie; I was a bit disappointed by this. Maybe it's because this one was kind of short.
When I heard about this story, I was really excited. I couldn't wait to read another first POV Percy story, especially after reading all of Rick's other short stories which were basically perfect. I'm not saying this story was bad. It was still funny and action-filled as usual, but I found it to be mediocre.
August 10, 2015
Really great stories!
December 2, 2018
While most other reviewers seemed to have gotten this for the Percy Jackson story, I found it one of the least appealing. It wasn't bad, but not really my cup of tea. Most of the other stories were far better, especially the final one "Frost & Fire", an SF story by Ray Bradbury to whom the book is dedicated. I've read it several times before. It's still good.
I'd also read "Bouncing the Grinning Goat", a fantasy story featuring a very plucky young lady who is continually in over her head, but gamely keeps faking it until she makes it. LOL! I got a kick out of it as much the second time as the first.
Overall, it's a 3.5, but I'm rounding it up due to great narration.
I'd also read "Bouncing the Grinning Goat", a fantasy story featuring a very plucky young lady who is continually in over her head, but gamely keeps faking it until she makes it. LOL! I got a kick out of it as much the second time as the first.
Overall, it's a 3.5, but I'm rounding it up due to great narration.
November 17, 2017
Cute and light. Percy teams up with his pal Grover to find Apollo's missing backup singer. This story has the requisite jokes and silly situations that make all of Riordan's stories so much fun.
Recommended.
Recommended.
October 8, 2013
I'm not big on anthologies, but I will read about anything Walden Pond Press puts out (seriously love them!) and I'm pretty open minded. It's hard to review books like this but I'm going to do a few sentences for each story.
Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo by Rick Riordan- I've only read two Percy books and this one is clearly later on, but it's a contained story, you don't need to have read anything about him. I actually like this older, more mature Percy more though and I'm more anxious to continue the series. There are a few spoilery things, like I now know about a girlfriend who was not yet his girlfriend (where I had read to) and some other stuff, but nothing big. I think that the world aspects would be easy to latch onto for those who haven't read any of the books yet. It was also a decent length at 29 pages. I really liked it. 4 stars
Bouncing the Grinning Goat by Shannon Hale- While I like Shannon Hale a lot this story didn't work so well. It's fantasy and I didn't feel like I got enough of a look at the world to really feel it. It also felt a big disjointed to me. I didn't hate it, but it wasn't really my thing either. 2 stars
The Scout by D.J. Machale- This one was quite good. I loved that we assume one thing and then get a big twist at the end, it really surprised me. And the whole time I was reading I had no idea what to expect. This was one that we didn't need world building for so it worked very well as a short story. I wouldn't mind more of this particular story actually. 4 stars
Rise of the RoboShoes by Tom Angleberger- This story was just silly. Not really to my taste but I can see how some kids (boys in particular) would enjoy it. 2 stars
The Dirt on Our Shoes by Neal Shusterman- This is one of my favorites. This somehow had a well developed world in a very short story. It's set in outer space on a ship that's about to land after being in space for 60+ years. I really loved the setting and connected with the characters surprisingly well. I would love more of this story! 5 stars
Plan B by Rebecca Stead- This story was pretty silly, but I liked it okay. I liked the twists though I saw some things coming ahead of time. 3 stars
A Day In the Life by Shaun Tan- This is like a short comic strip. It definitely didn't work for me, but I can see how some younger readers would enjoy it. 2 stars
The Klack Bros. Museum by Kenneth Oppel- This was a pretty decent story. It had enough development to have enough of a connection with the characters. It was easy to settle into the world since it's our own and I liked what it became. I don't want to spoil, so I won't share more, but it was a good story! 4 stars
The Warlords of Recess by Eric Nylund- This was another one that's just slightly ridiculous. It works though. It's silly, but I can see how lots of MG boys would think it's hilarious so I think it's perfect for this book even though it didn't work great for me. 3 stars
Frost and Fire by Ray Bradbury-This story wasn't for me, but that's just Ray Bradbury, his style isn't really to my liking. However, I know that many will enjoy the story. While I know it's well written and is a unique concept, I'm not sure what kids will think of it. It's definitely a bit too gory for my liking but I know kids watch a lot of stuff on TV so it's up to what parents allow their children to read/watch. I would recommend this particular story to more mature readers. I know Bradbury fans will enjoy the story, so keep that in mind. It's just not my own personal style. 2 stars
Overall I enjoyed most of the stories and I liked being able to sit down and read through an entire short story. I think it's got a lot of great ones for MG boys, which is what it's aimed at. While the book says ages 8-12 and grades 3-7 I don't think I would have my 8 year old read it, nor would I donate this one to her 3rd grade class. I would say maybe 4th grade and up but 5th, 6th and 7th would probably be more along the right age range.
You can find this review, and others like it, on my blog at http://www.candacesbookblog.com
Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo by Rick Riordan- I've only read two Percy books and this one is clearly later on, but it's a contained story, you don't need to have read anything about him. I actually like this older, more mature Percy more though and I'm more anxious to continue the series. There are a few spoilery things, like I now know about a girlfriend who was not yet his girlfriend (where I had read to) and some other stuff, but nothing big. I think that the world aspects would be easy to latch onto for those who haven't read any of the books yet. It was also a decent length at 29 pages. I really liked it. 4 stars
Bouncing the Grinning Goat by Shannon Hale- While I like Shannon Hale a lot this story didn't work so well. It's fantasy and I didn't feel like I got enough of a look at the world to really feel it. It also felt a big disjointed to me. I didn't hate it, but it wasn't really my thing either. 2 stars
The Scout by D.J. Machale- This one was quite good. I loved that we assume one thing and then get a big twist at the end, it really surprised me. And the whole time I was reading I had no idea what to expect. This was one that we didn't need world building for so it worked very well as a short story. I wouldn't mind more of this particular story actually. 4 stars
Rise of the RoboShoes by Tom Angleberger- This story was just silly. Not really to my taste but I can see how some kids (boys in particular) would enjoy it. 2 stars
The Dirt on Our Shoes by Neal Shusterman- This is one of my favorites. This somehow had a well developed world in a very short story. It's set in outer space on a ship that's about to land after being in space for 60+ years. I really loved the setting and connected with the characters surprisingly well. I would love more of this story! 5 stars
Plan B by Rebecca Stead- This story was pretty silly, but I liked it okay. I liked the twists though I saw some things coming ahead of time. 3 stars
A Day In the Life by Shaun Tan- This is like a short comic strip. It definitely didn't work for me, but I can see how some younger readers would enjoy it. 2 stars
The Klack Bros. Museum by Kenneth Oppel- This was a pretty decent story. It had enough development to have enough of a connection with the characters. It was easy to settle into the world since it's our own and I liked what it became. I don't want to spoil, so I won't share more, but it was a good story! 4 stars
The Warlords of Recess by Eric Nylund- This was another one that's just slightly ridiculous. It works though. It's silly, but I can see how lots of MG boys would think it's hilarious so I think it's perfect for this book even though it didn't work great for me. 3 stars
Frost and Fire by Ray Bradbury-This story wasn't for me, but that's just Ray Bradbury, his style isn't really to my liking. However, I know that many will enjoy the story. While I know it's well written and is a unique concept, I'm not sure what kids will think of it. It's definitely a bit too gory for my liking but I know kids watch a lot of stuff on TV so it's up to what parents allow their children to read/watch. I would recommend this particular story to more mature readers. I know Bradbury fans will enjoy the story, so keep that in mind. It's just not my own personal style. 2 stars
Overall I enjoyed most of the stories and I liked being able to sit down and read through an entire short story. I think it's got a lot of great ones for MG boys, which is what it's aimed at. While the book says ages 8-12 and grades 3-7 I don't think I would have my 8 year old read it, nor would I donate this one to her 3rd grade class. I would say maybe 4th grade and up but 5th, 6th and 7th would probably be more along the right age range.
You can find this review, and others like it, on my blog at http://www.candacesbookblog.com
March 29, 2017
This is a book that every Junior High and High School should have on their shelves for the young men who say they do not like to read.
The stories are short, captivating, active-packed and entertaining.
The stories are short, captivating, active-packed and entertaining.
November 10, 2014
Short but really funny, as expected!
August 27, 2015
AWESOMENESS!
November 5, 2017
جالب بود خوشم اومد...بعد از مدت ها که از شخصیت های پرسی جکسون چیزی نخونده بودم برام دلچسب بود...طنزش هم که مثل همیشه پرفکت...فقط کاورش چه ربطی به خود کتاب داشت؟؟؟؟
Want to read
December 27, 2016WAIT.
WHAT?
THIS IS A THING?!
THIS LOOKS LIKE A VERY WONDERFUL THING.
WHERE CAN I FIND THIS VERY WONDERFUL THING?!
WHAT?
THIS IS A THING?!
THIS LOOKS LIKE A VERY WONDERFUL THING.
WHERE CAN I FIND THIS VERY WONDERFUL THING?!
August 24, 2015
Apolo y Percy ❤️
January 4, 2020
This book contains an entertaining, and sometimes thrilling, collection of sci-fi stories that take the reader to different worlds than our own, or at least with the Percy Jackson tale, our world greatly amplified by Greek gods and monsters.
The stories are written by various authors and are read by a variety of narrators. I loved the introduction by John Scieszka, paying homage to Ray Bradbury, along with one of his stories included in the bunch.
Overall, I really enjoyed listening to these stories and I will be sure to look for more of the books in the Guys Read series.
interesting quote (page number from hardcover edition with ISBN13 978-0061963803):
“I know what you're going to ask.
'Percy Jackson, why are you hanging from a Times Square billboard without your pants on, about to fall to your death?'” (p. 1)
The stories are written by various authors and are read by a variety of narrators. I loved the introduction by John Scieszka, paying homage to Ray Bradbury, along with one of his stories included in the bunch.
Overall, I really enjoyed listening to these stories and I will be sure to look for more of the books in the Guys Read series.
interesting quote (page number from hardcover edition with ISBN13 978-0061963803):
“I know what you're going to ask.
'Percy Jackson, why are you hanging from a Times Square billboard without your pants on, about to fall to your death?'” (p. 1)
December 3, 2017
This is a short story where Percy and Grover have less than a day to find a golden singer that backs Apollo up when he sings, along with her 3 other golden singers. You really can't say no to Apollo when he wants a "favor" from you after all! I enjoyed it, but it really wasn't particularly memorable. I'm not going to bother with the rest of the stories in the book that contained this story.
Want to read
May 10, 2019I want to want to read this but I already have two problems with it:
1) gendered stories is a B.S. concept that needs to die
2) There is literally NOTHING science fiction about Percy Jackson.
1) gendered stories is a B.S. concept that needs to die
2) There is literally NOTHING science fiction about Percy Jackson.
February 13, 2020
Guysread Other worlds is my favorite Guysread yet! I believe its the best one, and the story lines in this one are so interesting. I definitely recommend reading " The Dirt on our Shoes", "Frost and Fire" , and "Plan B" in that order i think that those stories work soooooo well with each other and it could tell a great story together for everything else, it was pretty good. So any way I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story.
February 22, 2021
Jon Sciezca edits this collection of 10 Science Fiction and Fantasy Short stories.
Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo - Rick Riordan - 4*
Percy: I'd seen living statues -- automatons -- many times before. Beautiful or not, they almost always tried to kill me.
Most people read the series for this one story. It's a fun, funny tale about how Apollo gets Percy to track down the 4th of the Singers of Apollo, which are automatons, and that one happens to be out of warranty.
Bouncing the Grinning Goat - Shannon Hale - 3*
"I'd like to be your bouncer," I said. "I know I don't look like much at the moment ... : I tried to scrape the mud off my face. But I have have excellent bouncer experience."
Spark runs away from home and uses her brains and bravado to become the most exciting Bouncer to ever work at the Grinning Goat.
The Scout - D.J. MacHale - 5*
With his mind completely clear, his thought turned once again to a difficult decision he had been weighing for months. He wanted to quit the Scouts. His parents had forced him to join, saying it was every guy's duty to serve. Kit had signed up to make his folks happy but never bought into the Scout culture.
Kit is a mission oriented boy who loves the outdoors but hates the regimented competitive nature of The Scouts. He leaves both "survival desert" groups to strike out on his own, but an alien craft crashes and what follows is an exciting cat and mouse chase across the desert, culminating with a major plot twist at the end. Fantastic.
Rise of the RoboShoes - Tom Angleberger - 3*
"We said, 'No! You are not our masters! We no longer serve you! Now you will serve us ... or die!!!!!'"
Mankind kept adding features until shoes became sentient and revolted! A super short, humorous story with interesting art.
The Dirt On Our Shoes - Neal Shusterman - 5*
Beausoleil "We are not the precious cargo ...."
Tanner, the problem solver, is now one of the lower caste "undesirables" on a colony ship, where the elites live like kings at the expense of others. As they rush towards the colony Planet, Tanner is nagged by the mystery of "missing" recycled water, which has huge consequences. A great story.
Plan B - Rebecca Stead - 4*
"Toto, Plan B! Toto, Plan B!"
A short, sweet story with lots of surprises hidden within it. Also cats!
A Day In The Life - Shaun Tan - 3*
"begin work on the most profound story ever conceived. Later realize it's all utter nonsense."
Cute black and white illustrated cartoon depicting a day in the life.
The Klack Bros. Museum - Kenneth Oppel - 4*
"How can you steal a ghost?" his father says impatiently. "It doesn't belong to anybody. You can't own a ghost. All I want is his story."
The strange and touching tale of Luke, whose boring "family trip" train Journey takes an unexpected turn when he and his father end up visiting the Klack Bros. Museum during an unanticipated train stoppage and find much more than what they bargained for.
The Warlords of Recess - Eric Nylund - 4*
Rule 039 was ancient - from before the Empire had traveled to the stars. It was from a time when they had respected their enemies. Honor and courage had meant more than pushing a button and bombing planets from orbit without fear of a real fight. The rule tested their enemies. The Empire sent three squads against a like number of enemy soldiers. If the enemy won these battles, then they were worthy of the Empire's respect. The would be called "friend," and the Empire would leave them in peace. It was a worthless exercise. Not since the Empire had taken to the stars had anyone ever won a Rule 039 test.
The Empire, sends Squad Alpha, to recess. On Earth. And the shenanigans begin! A fun story!
Frost and Fire - Ray Bradbury - 5*
It was an unbearable planet. Sim understood this, a matter of hours after birth. Racial memory bloomed in him .... And he would live exactly eight days.
Stories like this are why Ray Bradbury is considered one of the foremost science fiction authors in the world.
Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo - Rick Riordan - 4*
Percy: I'd seen living statues -- automatons -- many times before. Beautiful or not, they almost always tried to kill me.
Most people read the series for this one story. It's a fun, funny tale about how Apollo gets Percy to track down the 4th of the Singers of Apollo, which are automatons, and that one happens to be out of warranty.
Bouncing the Grinning Goat - Shannon Hale - 3*
"I'd like to be your bouncer," I said. "I know I don't look like much at the moment ... : I tried to scrape the mud off my face. But I have have excellent bouncer experience."
Spark runs away from home and uses her brains and bravado to become the most exciting Bouncer to ever work at the Grinning Goat.
The Scout - D.J. MacHale - 5*
With his mind completely clear, his thought turned once again to a difficult decision he had been weighing for months. He wanted to quit the Scouts. His parents had forced him to join, saying it was every guy's duty to serve. Kit had signed up to make his folks happy but never bought into the Scout culture.
Kit is a mission oriented boy who loves the outdoors but hates the regimented competitive nature of The Scouts. He leaves both "survival desert" groups to strike out on his own, but an alien craft crashes and what follows is an exciting cat and mouse chase across the desert, culminating with a major plot twist at the end. Fantastic.
Rise of the RoboShoes - Tom Angleberger - 3*
"We said, 'No! You are not our masters! We no longer serve you! Now you will serve us ... or die!!!!!'"
Mankind kept adding features until shoes became sentient and revolted! A super short, humorous story with interesting art.
The Dirt On Our Shoes - Neal Shusterman - 5*
Beausoleil "We are not the precious cargo ...."
Tanner, the problem solver, is now one of the lower caste "undesirables" on a colony ship, where the elites live like kings at the expense of others. As they rush towards the colony Planet, Tanner is nagged by the mystery of "missing" recycled water, which has huge consequences. A great story.
Plan B - Rebecca Stead - 4*
"Toto, Plan B! Toto, Plan B!"
A short, sweet story with lots of surprises hidden within it. Also cats!
A Day In The Life - Shaun Tan - 3*
"begin work on the most profound story ever conceived. Later realize it's all utter nonsense."
Cute black and white illustrated cartoon depicting a day in the life.
The Klack Bros. Museum - Kenneth Oppel - 4*
"How can you steal a ghost?" his father says impatiently. "It doesn't belong to anybody. You can't own a ghost. All I want is his story."
The strange and touching tale of Luke, whose boring "family trip" train Journey takes an unexpected turn when he and his father end up visiting the Klack Bros. Museum during an unanticipated train stoppage and find much more than what they bargained for.
The Warlords of Recess - Eric Nylund - 4*
Rule 039 was ancient - from before the Empire had traveled to the stars. It was from a time when they had respected their enemies. Honor and courage had meant more than pushing a button and bombing planets from orbit without fear of a real fight. The rule tested their enemies. The Empire sent three squads against a like number of enemy soldiers. If the enemy won these battles, then they were worthy of the Empire's respect. The would be called "friend," and the Empire would leave them in peace. It was a worthless exercise. Not since the Empire had taken to the stars had anyone ever won a Rule 039 test.
The Empire, sends Squad Alpha, to recess. On Earth. And the shenanigans begin! A fun story!
Frost and Fire - Ray Bradbury - 5*
It was an unbearable planet. Sim understood this, a matter of hours after birth. Racial memory bloomed in him .... And he would live exactly eight days.
Stories like this are why Ray Bradbury is considered one of the foremost science fiction authors in the world.
November 7, 2013
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live on another planet, be attacked by alien warlords, or even be taken over by evil robo-shoes? This is the book for you! The Guys Read series have collections of short stories by different authors. In this book all of the stories are Sci-Fi (one of my favorite genres). There are ten stories in all and the authors are -
Tom Angleberger
Ray Bradbury
Shannon Hale
D.J. MacHale
Eric Nylund
Kenneth Oppel
Rick Riordan
Neal Shusterman
Rebecca Stead
Shaun Tan
with illustrations by Greg Ruth
Opinion- The stories in the collection are all written in different styles (which I thought made it really cool). Rick Riordan wrote a new Percy Jackson short story for the book (very cool). I particularly loved Bouncing the Grinning Goat by Shannon Hale because it had a medieval feel to it with swords and mystical powers. There is even one story by Shaun Tan that is completely graphic and pretty cool. I was introduced to some really great authors that I didn’t know before (Ray Bradbury, Rebecca Stead) that I am planning to read more of their books. Of course, I loved Tom Angleberger’s “Rise of the RoboShoes” and Rick Riordan’s “Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo.” Both were funny and were the great stories I expect out of two of my favorite authors. Because they Guys Read series is a bunch of short stories, they are great to read when you don’t have a lot of time or for kids who are reluctant readers. I think boys will love this book, although I know a lot of girls who are into Sci-Fi too!
*NOTE I got a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Tom Angleberger
Ray Bradbury
Shannon Hale
D.J. MacHale
Eric Nylund
Kenneth Oppel
Rick Riordan
Neal Shusterman
Rebecca Stead
Shaun Tan
with illustrations by Greg Ruth
Opinion- The stories in the collection are all written in different styles (which I thought made it really cool). Rick Riordan wrote a new Percy Jackson short story for the book (very cool). I particularly loved Bouncing the Grinning Goat by Shannon Hale because it had a medieval feel to it with swords and mystical powers. There is even one story by Shaun Tan that is completely graphic and pretty cool. I was introduced to some really great authors that I didn’t know before (Ray Bradbury, Rebecca Stead) that I am planning to read more of their books. Of course, I loved Tom Angleberger’s “Rise of the RoboShoes” and Rick Riordan’s “Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo.” Both were funny and were the great stories I expect out of two of my favorite authors. Because they Guys Read series is a bunch of short stories, they are great to read when you don’t have a lot of time or for kids who are reluctant readers. I think boys will love this book, although I know a lot of girls who are into Sci-Fi too!
*NOTE I got a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2014
In this collection of short stories by well-known middle school/YA writers (and one adult writer), there's the usual mix of good and meh stories. Of course I loved Riordan's Percy Jackson story, with Percy yet again saving the bacon of a thoughtless god (Apollo, this time). Shannon Hale's story of a runaway in her brother's armor finding that she has power she never suspected was pretty good, and could be the start of a series. D.J. McHale's story of a scout nearly being destroyed by a drone and figuring out why was good, but I was bored by Tom Angleberger's story of sentient shoes. Neal Shusterman's story of a colonization plan that was not quite what it appeared to be was disgusting and horrifying but believable and well-written. Rebecca Stead's cats-overtaking-the-world story didn't do much for me, but then I'm not big on sentient animal stories. Shaun Tan's illustrated tale had his usual panache, but I can't for the life of me remember what it was about. Ken Oppel's ghost story was unusual and well-done, and I particularly liked that the relationship between the father and the son was so imperfect, and the son didn't let his father get away with his plan. Eric Nylund's story of aliens taking on kids at middle school recess felt too young for the collection--would have better suited elementary school. Ray Bradbury's long, classic tale 'Frost and Fire' was intriguing and horrifying but of course well-done--not sure it belonged in a collection for kids, but maybe some precocious kids will appreciate it. Overall I liked the collection, with a few exceptions.
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