What do you think?
Rate this book
7th Grade Revolution
WHEN UNEARTHING A NATIONAL TREASURE BECOMES A NATIONAL INCIDENT
Inspired by True Events
Dennis Alexander: Washington Academy Middle School promises to be another in the long line of boring schools he has been expelled from.
Rhonda Snodgrass: Although trained from childhood in survival tactics, she tries to stay off the radar of the “cool” kids who think she’s weird.
7th grade turns out to be anything but normal when teachers announce the students’ bloodless revolution succeeded and they are now in charge. After conducting a secret-ballot vote on policy, the 7th graders emerge to find the school evacuated and the FBI lurking outside with the task of unearthing a treasure of national importance.
The students’ mission is clear—discover the treasure before the FBI locks down the building. Dennis and Rhonda lead the revolt and must work together to follow century-old clues left by a crazy Revolutionary War buff.
To stay one step ahead of the FBI, they must delve into history and amass an arsenal to defend their school … because this is WAR!
Inspired by True Events
Dennis Alexander: Washington Academy Middle School promises to be another in the long line of boring schools he has been expelled from.
Rhonda Snodgrass: Although trained from childhood in survival tactics, she tries to stay off the radar of the “cool” kids who think she’s weird.
7th grade turns out to be anything but normal when teachers announce the students’ bloodless revolution succeeded and they are now in charge. After conducting a secret-ballot vote on policy, the 7th graders emerge to find the school evacuated and the FBI lurking outside with the task of unearthing a treasure of national importance.
The students’ mission is clear—discover the treasure before the FBI locks down the building. Dennis and Rhonda lead the revolt and must work together to follow century-old clues left by a crazy Revolutionary War buff.
To stay one step ahead of the FBI, they must delve into history and amass an arsenal to defend their school … because this is WAR!
299 pages, ebook
Published October 24, 2017
40 people are currently reading
788 people want to read
About the author
Liana Gardner
5 books305 followersLiana Gardner is a Bram Stoker Awards® Nominee and the multi-award-winning author of
7th Grade Revolution
,
The Journal of Angela Ashby
,
Speak No Evil
, and the Katie McCabe series. The daughter of a rocket scientist and an artist, Liana combines the traits of both into a quirky yet pragmatic writer and in everything sees the story lurking beneath the surface.
Engaged in a battle against leukemia and lymphoma, Liana spends much of her time at home, but her imagination takes her wherever she wants to go. Most recently she was titled Lady of Lochaber and Glencoe and was honored with a star named after her in the Andromeda Constellation.
Liana is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
Engaged in a battle against leukemia and lymphoma, Liana spends much of her time at home, but her imagination takes her wherever she wants to go. Most recently she was titled Lady of Lochaber and Glencoe and was honored with a star named after her in the Andromeda Constellation.
Liana is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 4, 2018
This was such a fun read! I loved every minute and had a hard time putting this one down! This may be a middle-grade book, but Liana kept the writing interesting enough to keep me on the edge of my seat wanting to know more. The story is told from two view points: students Dennis and Rhonda.
Dennis is the new kid who has been kicked out of his previous schools, though we never find out why. We do get a little insight into Dennis throughout the book, and I love how his character grows during the story.
Rhonda is your typical weird girl, though honestly; she reminded me a lot of myself in 7th grade! Her father has trained her in survival tactics and some of the other students pick on her because of that. Though in the end, Rhonda becomes a stronger character.
The hunt for the treasure is amazingly written and I honestly could picture myself right there with all the students. It was so fun to find the secrets with them, and I felt joy each time they discovered something new; whether it be about themselves, another classmate or just a new discovery in or around their school.
I almost wish there was a second book, just because I don't want to leave all the students. This was a great book idea based off of the Exploris Middle School's bloodless revolution. I honestly wish more schools would do things like this to get the kids more involved.
Dennis is the new kid who has been kicked out of his previous schools, though we never find out why. We do get a little insight into Dennis throughout the book, and I love how his character grows during the story.
Rhonda is your typical weird girl, though honestly; she reminded me a lot of myself in 7th grade! Her father has trained her in survival tactics and some of the other students pick on her because of that. Though in the end, Rhonda becomes a stronger character.
The hunt for the treasure is amazingly written and I honestly could picture myself right there with all the students. It was so fun to find the secrets with them, and I felt joy each time they discovered something new; whether it be about themselves, another classmate or just a new discovery in or around their school.
I almost wish there was a second book, just because I don't want to leave all the students. This was a great book idea based off of the Exploris Middle School's bloodless revolution. I honestly wish more schools would do things like this to get the kids more involved.
November 16, 2017
This was a fun book with insights of what it is like to be a 13 year old in middle school (a memory I believe many of us want to forget!). At first I thought this book was simply about a group of kids that wanted to revolt against teachers. What kids didn't at that age? However, this story is so much more!
These kids go on an adventure of a lifetime - in their own school! It has what all kids wish their school had: secret tunnels, riddles to decipher, treasure to find, and all the while keeping the FBI from finding out what they are really doing. And you are lucky enough to go on the adventure with them!
Do not neglect the last few pages either. It shows all the tweets of the real 7th Grade Revolution that occurred in one school. It was funny to watch what the kids were doing when they were finally given power to run their school. It is a good reminder as to why growing up is not always the worst thing to happen to us.
Finally, this story showed me something that I think many of us forget. As a parent, I do not always realize the influence I have on my own children, but this story showed not only how much influence parents have, but teachers and the community as a whole as well. And in this story, that was a good thing!
These kids go on an adventure of a lifetime - in their own school! It has what all kids wish their school had: secret tunnels, riddles to decipher, treasure to find, and all the while keeping the FBI from finding out what they are really doing. And you are lucky enough to go on the adventure with them!
Do not neglect the last few pages either. It shows all the tweets of the real 7th Grade Revolution that occurred in one school. It was funny to watch what the kids were doing when they were finally given power to run their school. It is a good reminder as to why growing up is not always the worst thing to happen to us.
Finally, this story showed me something that I think many of us forget. As a parent, I do not always realize the influence I have on my own children, but this story showed not only how much influence parents have, but teachers and the community as a whole as well. And in this story, that was a good thing!
October 24, 2017
***This review was written by a 12 yr old.*** I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I give it a double thumbs up. I liked the storyline because I like intrigue. My favorite character is Dennis because he is cool. I recommend the book.
December 19, 2018
'7th Grade Revolution' is a fun young adult/middle grade mystery that will have readers begging for more. It follows our two main characters, Rhonda and Dennis, fellow 7th graders, as they go on an adventure of a lifetime. The story is told from the third person point of view, in alternating chapters between Rhonda and Dennis. I'm not a big fan of the third person POV, but I can understand why the author used it in this story and it worked for it. I liked the alternating narratives of Dennis and Rhonda. It allows the reader to get to know each of them on a more personal level and to see each of their perspectives as everything around them unfolds. The chapters were short and quick to read, which made the pace of the book fast and easy. Each chapter beginning is accompanied by a black and white illustration, which I thought added a lot of charm to the novel and helps set it apart from others out there. The story wasn't a huge plus for me personally, mostly because I don't normally read this kind of fiction and I couldn't really connect with the characters. This is my own personal opinion and doesn't reflect poorly on the book, writing, or author in any way. I know other readers won't have the same opinion as I do, but I just wanted to mention it to explain why I didn't give it a higher rating. I recommend this for fans of YA fiction, middle grade fiction, contemporary fiction, adventure, and mystery.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2017
I think that younger readers would eat this up. It’s got adventure, relatable characters, and kids standing up to adults. Plus, there’s some sneaky educational aspects in there too. If I taught 4th, 5th, or even 6th grade I’d feel pretty comfortable putting this in my class library and letting students find it on their own to enjoy. Not my personal cup of tea, but I think it could be a favorite for some kids.
October 17, 2017
I received my copy as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This was a wonderful story. I reconnected with my childhood. It was very difficult to put down. If you like stories with adventure and mystery, you will absolutely love this.
November 19, 2020
Review by Isaac, a 7th Grader
Isaac says that 7th Grade Revolution is very well written and explained. It keeps you hooked throughout the whole book. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Isaac says that 7th Grade Revolution is very well written and explained. It keeps you hooked throughout the whole book. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
October 24, 2017
I have started to read more and more middle-grade books. Having two tweens and one of them who loves to read, I am always on the lookout for good middle-grade books. The cover of 7th Grade Revolution caught my eye when I saw it. When I read the blurb, my interest was caught and I had to read it. I am glad I did because this is a book that I would definitely let my kids read.
7th Grade Revolution was based on real events. The 7th graders at Exploris Middle School staged a bloodless revolution. The reason, they were upset with the teachers. The author took that real life event and ran with it. Which resulted in a book that mirrored National Treasure but on a kid’s level. I loved it. The plot of this book
The plot of this book was very simple. 7th graders at Washington Academy Middle School staged a bloodless revolution and won. While in a room, debating school schedules and courses, the entire school is evacuated. All grades except the 7th grade. One of the students picks up a conversation between two FBI agents about a secret treasure. The secret treasure is hidden inside the school and the FBI is going to try to flush them out. The students decide to stay one step ahead of the agents by stockpiling food and water. They also decide to find the treasure before the FBI. The resulting adventure reveals surprising secrets about their school. It also reveals secrets about the American Revolutionary War.
There are several main characters in 7th Grade Revolution. I am going to focus the main two characters, Dennis and Rhonda. The secondary characters in this book are what made the book. They gave the book substance and the ability for me to believe that these kids actually did what they did.
Dennis did not want to be in that school. Being the new kid, he’s the outsider and everyone looks at him like a bit of a bad boy. But when push comes to shove, he becomes the person that everyone leans on. He does have his demons and I was heartbroken when I read how they came about.
Rhonda is the low kid on the totem pole at Washington Academy Middle School. She was teased because her father has trained her in survival tactics in preparation. But those were for a zombie apocalypse. She tends to keep herself because of that. When the students discover the passage under the school, she is only one who can help them get the secret treasure.
Like I said above, this is a middle-grade book. My children are almost 10 and almost 12 and 7th Grade Revolution will be a perfect read for them. I am planning on buying this for my almost 10-year-old for Christmas. He loves these kinds of books and I can see 7th Grade Revolution becoming a favorite of his.
The end of the book was pretty typical. All the storylines were wrapped up in a very satisfactory way that satisfied me as a reader. I did like how everything was explained to the kids about the secret treasure.
4 stars
My Summary of 7th Grade Revolution:
7th Grade Revolution is a fantastic middle-grade book. This book has memorable characters, both main and secondary, as well as a plot that will keep you on your toes. I plan on getting this book for my almost 10-year-old.
Will I reread: Yes
Will I recommend to family and friends: Yes
Age range: Tween
Why: There is some mild violence in this book. Otherwise very clean. I would recommend for a tween (10+). Any younger, I would suggest using your discretion.
I would like to thank Liana Gardner, Independent Book Publishers Association, Member’s Titles and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review 7th Grade Revolution.
All opinions stated in this review of 7th Grade Revolution are mine.
I did not receive any compensation for this review.
**I chose to leave this review after reading an advance reader copy**
7th Grade Revolution was based on real events. The 7th graders at Exploris Middle School staged a bloodless revolution. The reason, they were upset with the teachers. The author took that real life event and ran with it. Which resulted in a book that mirrored National Treasure but on a kid’s level. I loved it. The plot of this book
The plot of this book was very simple. 7th graders at Washington Academy Middle School staged a bloodless revolution and won. While in a room, debating school schedules and courses, the entire school is evacuated. All grades except the 7th grade. One of the students picks up a conversation between two FBI agents about a secret treasure. The secret treasure is hidden inside the school and the FBI is going to try to flush them out. The students decide to stay one step ahead of the agents by stockpiling food and water. They also decide to find the treasure before the FBI. The resulting adventure reveals surprising secrets about their school. It also reveals secrets about the American Revolutionary War.
There are several main characters in 7th Grade Revolution. I am going to focus the main two characters, Dennis and Rhonda. The secondary characters in this book are what made the book. They gave the book substance and the ability for me to believe that these kids actually did what they did.
Dennis did not want to be in that school. Being the new kid, he’s the outsider and everyone looks at him like a bit of a bad boy. But when push comes to shove, he becomes the person that everyone leans on. He does have his demons and I was heartbroken when I read how they came about.
Rhonda is the low kid on the totem pole at Washington Academy Middle School. She was teased because her father has trained her in survival tactics in preparation. But those were for a zombie apocalypse. She tends to keep herself because of that. When the students discover the passage under the school, she is only one who can help them get the secret treasure.
Like I said above, this is a middle-grade book. My children are almost 10 and almost 12 and 7th Grade Revolution will be a perfect read for them. I am planning on buying this for my almost 10-year-old for Christmas. He loves these kinds of books and I can see 7th Grade Revolution becoming a favorite of his.
The end of the book was pretty typical. All the storylines were wrapped up in a very satisfactory way that satisfied me as a reader. I did like how everything was explained to the kids about the secret treasure.
4 stars
My Summary of 7th Grade Revolution:
7th Grade Revolution is a fantastic middle-grade book. This book has memorable characters, both main and secondary, as well as a plot that will keep you on your toes. I plan on getting this book for my almost 10-year-old.
Will I reread: Yes
Will I recommend to family and friends: Yes
Age range: Tween
Why: There is some mild violence in this book. Otherwise very clean. I would recommend for a tween (10+). Any younger, I would suggest using your discretion.
I would like to thank Liana Gardner, Independent Book Publishers Association, Member’s Titles and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review 7th Grade Revolution.
All opinions stated in this review of 7th Grade Revolution are mine.
I did not receive any compensation for this review.
**I chose to leave this review after reading an advance reader copy**
December 12, 2018
I had been eyeing 7th Grade Revolution All year due to having twin 7th graders at this moment who are both book worms; yes, I am quite proud of them! So, when given the opportunity to be a part of this book tour AND receive a copy to review, I squealed with delight!
Even as I am typing this, my kids are reading the e-book copy. The book took me roughly three hours to read and kept me intrigued throughout.
The storyline is inspired from an article the author found in her Twitter feed about the Exploris Middle School in North Carolina during 2011 who brought in all the 7th Grader's during a module on the American Revolution. The Staff then told the student had been dissatisfied with how the school was being ran, so after a "bloodless" revolution they were tasked with forming their own government, determine policies, and to run the school.
A copy of the actual live Twitter feed is at the very end of the book; very interesting. Plus, the book is dedicated to the teachers of the 7th graders of Exploris Middle School, NC.
With the "What if" concept starting to brew in author Liana Gardner's mind, off we go into 7th Grade Revolution full of fun twists, turns, and plots! The addition of illustrations at each chapter point was a nice touch and rounded out the children's characters.
Each of the main characters interweaves into how they stood at the beginning of the revolt and the most enjoyable aspect was reading as they grew into the character needed by the end.
Rhonda was by far my favorite and bravo'd internally as she grew into the leader her father knew she could be.
Following them into darkness and clues, I was kept guessing along with the 7th graders as they stood their ground then charged ahead following Silas Tucker's scrawling handwriting on maps and his will.
Who was Silas? Well, he bequeathed Washington Academy Middle School to be used as a higher learning facility for children. Many thought he was insane during his time due to his lifestyle and ideas which were brought to the forefront as the 7th graders chose to defend their school against the FBI.
What did the FBI want that could shake this nation's very foundation to its roots? Well, I personally, was surprised by these twists!
I truly enjoyed the read and while this does state "7th grade" and my twins ARE 7th graders who read above their grade level (10th grade level) certain parts were a bit above their heads due to all the historical points linked throughout.
They are enjoying the read though and have Googled plus learned a few key points in history while reading.
Even as I am typing this, my kids are reading the e-book copy. The book took me roughly three hours to read and kept me intrigued throughout.
The storyline is inspired from an article the author found in her Twitter feed about the Exploris Middle School in North Carolina during 2011 who brought in all the 7th Grader's during a module on the American Revolution. The Staff then told the student had been dissatisfied with how the school was being ran, so after a "bloodless" revolution they were tasked with forming their own government, determine policies, and to run the school.
A copy of the actual live Twitter feed is at the very end of the book; very interesting. Plus, the book is dedicated to the teachers of the 7th graders of Exploris Middle School, NC.
With the "What if" concept starting to brew in author Liana Gardner's mind, off we go into 7th Grade Revolution full of fun twists, turns, and plots! The addition of illustrations at each chapter point was a nice touch and rounded out the children's characters.
Each of the main characters interweaves into how they stood at the beginning of the revolt and the most enjoyable aspect was reading as they grew into the character needed by the end.
Rhonda was by far my favorite and bravo'd internally as she grew into the leader her father knew she could be.
Following them into darkness and clues, I was kept guessing along with the 7th graders as they stood their ground then charged ahead following Silas Tucker's scrawling handwriting on maps and his will.
Who was Silas? Well, he bequeathed Washington Academy Middle School to be used as a higher learning facility for children. Many thought he was insane during his time due to his lifestyle and ideas which were brought to the forefront as the 7th graders chose to defend their school against the FBI.
What did the FBI want that could shake this nation's very foundation to its roots? Well, I personally, was surprised by these twists!
I truly enjoyed the read and while this does state "7th grade" and my twins ARE 7th graders who read above their grade level (10th grade level) certain parts were a bit above their heads due to all the historical points linked throughout.
They are enjoying the read though and have Googled plus learned a few key points in history while reading.
July 18, 2018
7th Grade Revolution by Liana Gardner opens in a seventh-grade classroom at Washington Academy Middle School where the students are met with a great declaration: a bloodless and successful revolution means they are now in charge of the school. Their assignment? Work together to form their own system of governing rules. Adding to the excitement, their progress is to be covered by the news media and followed through a popular social media site, QuackerMe (the equivalent of Twitter). Before long, their assignment takes on new meaning as the F.B.I. arrives on the scene intent to find a hidden artifact inside the school and then close it permanently. The students race against time to follow clues hidden by the school’s benefactor, a Revolutionary War devotee named Silas, who has hidden the artifact somewhere on the school campus, which was once his home. Will the students find it and save their school?
7th Grade Revolution by Liana Gardner is a fun, fast-paced, epic adventure story! Akin to a great treasure hunt with ancient maps and clues just waiting to be revealed, 7th Grade Revolution unfolds against a ticking clock and the potential of danger around every corner (and secret passageway, hidden room, and dark, bat-filled cavern). Liana Gardner’s novel is part mystery, part history, and everything contemporary as the students cleverly utilize social media and their own ingenuity to save their school even as the F.B.I. stands ready to breech the doors. Strong characterization makes 7th Grade Revolution truly memorable as the individual stories and traits of Dennis, Rhonda and all the students are woven effortlessly into the overall story. In addition, 7th Grade Revolution includes striking, fun illustrations by Luke Spooner at the beginning of every chapter. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it.
7th Grade Revolution by Liana Gardner is a fun, fast-paced, epic adventure story! Akin to a great treasure hunt with ancient maps and clues just waiting to be revealed, 7th Grade Revolution unfolds against a ticking clock and the potential of danger around every corner (and secret passageway, hidden room, and dark, bat-filled cavern). Liana Gardner’s novel is part mystery, part history, and everything contemporary as the students cleverly utilize social media and their own ingenuity to save their school even as the F.B.I. stands ready to breech the doors. Strong characterization makes 7th Grade Revolution truly memorable as the individual stories and traits of Dennis, Rhonda and all the students are woven effortlessly into the overall story. In addition, 7th Grade Revolution includes striking, fun illustrations by Luke Spooner at the beginning of every chapter. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it.
April 26, 2024
An exciting story reminiscent of a modern day Goonies. Inspired by true events, the book sneaks in some history so is educational as well as fun. A must read!
April 30, 2021
This started out as a really cool history object lesson and then turned into National Treasure for tweens! The 7th grade at Washington Academy Middle School, housed in a Civil War-era mansion, has just been informed that their bloodless revolution has succeeded and they now get to make the rules and schedules (within a few parameters). They begin to try to figure out how to decide who’s in charge, what changes they want to see, and how to make decisions. Super interesting on its own, and this part is based on a true story!
On day 2 of deliberations, the entire 7th grade goes into the basement auditorium nicknamed “The Dungeon” for a secret ballot vote. When they emerge, the school is eerily quiet. A police scanner app on a student’s cellphone reveals that the school has been evacuated and surrounded by the FBI! The feds are trying to figure out where the 7th graders are and how to get them out without attracting attention because they need to search the school for a Revolutionary War-era artifact of national security importance. But when the students hear the FBI might close the school down for good in order to search, they decide to take matters into their own hands and find the artifact themselves. Searching for clues in old blueprints and a will, stockpiling flashlights and rations in case of a siege, and creating homemade weapons to defend their school ensues!
This was a really exciting book! It switches between the point of view of two of the students, but you get to know a lot of the students throughout the story. It’s great to see the students develop leadership and teamwork skills, face their fears for the greater good, and step up in ways their classmates wouldn’t have expected. Because it’s a middle grade novel, there is no inappropriate content! No bad language, only innocent little middle school romances. I definitely recommend this book, especially if you’ve got a child in upper elementary school or middle school. They’d love it! I’d give this a 4 1/2, and I only bumped it down to a 4 because I reserve 5s for books I personally would want to reread many times. But I highly recommend it! Thanks to NetGalley for the free ebook.
On day 2 of deliberations, the entire 7th grade goes into the basement auditorium nicknamed “The Dungeon” for a secret ballot vote. When they emerge, the school is eerily quiet. A police scanner app on a student’s cellphone reveals that the school has been evacuated and surrounded by the FBI! The feds are trying to figure out where the 7th graders are and how to get them out without attracting attention because they need to search the school for a Revolutionary War-era artifact of national security importance. But when the students hear the FBI might close the school down for good in order to search, they decide to take matters into their own hands and find the artifact themselves. Searching for clues in old blueprints and a will, stockpiling flashlights and rations in case of a siege, and creating homemade weapons to defend their school ensues!
This was a really exciting book! It switches between the point of view of two of the students, but you get to know a lot of the students throughout the story. It’s great to see the students develop leadership and teamwork skills, face their fears for the greater good, and step up in ways their classmates wouldn’t have expected. Because it’s a middle grade novel, there is no inappropriate content! No bad language, only innocent little middle school romances. I definitely recommend this book, especially if you’ve got a child in upper elementary school or middle school. They’d love it! I’d give this a 4 1/2, and I only bumped it down to a 4 because I reserve 5s for books I personally would want to reread many times. But I highly recommend it! Thanks to NetGalley for the free ebook.
November 3, 2017
7th Grade Revolution is one of those books that is so close to being a 4-star, but, because I now know what happens, it takes away some of the suspense. I wish there was a way to read the book over again, without remembering what I already know. It is a great read the first time around when the mystery is still there.
The character development was great. With so many points of view, the reader has an inside look into the students' personal lives, and therefore, knows why some of the things they do are so important. There is a complexity to the story that is brought in by knowing the past of some of the students.
The farther I read, the more invested I was in the story. The mystery was great, but the fact that the students did everything without any adults guiding them made the story. It was a good reminder that you don't have to be an adult or even have an adults help to do great things. Everyone is capable of greatness, even if they are kids. In fact, in this book, the adults could stand to learn from the children.
I only had two issues with the book, but they are minor. I read the book on my kindle, so I don't know if a physical book would make a difference, but to me, the images were really dark and hard to make out. I could have done without them. I also had a problem keeping the characters straight. With so many points of view, it was hard for me to remember all the story lines for the different students. It is completely possible that it is just me having difficulties keeping things straight in my head. I'm sure a second read-through would help me understand who is who.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Liana Gardner
Publisher: Vesuvian Books
Publication Date: 24 Oct 2017
The character development was great. With so many points of view, the reader has an inside look into the students' personal lives, and therefore, knows why some of the things they do are so important. There is a complexity to the story that is brought in by knowing the past of some of the students.
The farther I read, the more invested I was in the story. The mystery was great, but the fact that the students did everything without any adults guiding them made the story. It was a good reminder that you don't have to be an adult or even have an adults help to do great things. Everyone is capable of greatness, even if they are kids. In fact, in this book, the adults could stand to learn from the children.
I only had two issues with the book, but they are minor. I read the book on my kindle, so I don't know if a physical book would make a difference, but to me, the images were really dark and hard to make out. I could have done without them. I also had a problem keeping the characters straight. With so many points of view, it was hard for me to remember all the story lines for the different students. It is completely possible that it is just me having difficulties keeping things straight in my head. I'm sure a second read-through would help me understand who is who.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Liana Gardner
Publisher: Vesuvian Books
Publication Date: 24 Oct 2017
September 9, 2018
Actual rating: 2.5 (rounded up since I like history)
All in all this book was good, but fell flat on a few points. First of all, the whole beginning felt forced. Not to mention there was no foreshadowing. I don't think we needed to know everything that would happen, but it often felt like fact weren't presented until they were needed. Why not have someone mention Silas Tucker being strange early on, or even have someone make fun of Rhonda for her zombie dad well before the fact. It just didn't feel like it really set up the book.
The one big problem I had with the book(other than the photos that were just one big spoiler after another) was that it was the FBI attacking the school. Make it a group pretending to be the power company or something and I might believe it. But the FBI, nope!
Finally, I didn't love that there wasn't a real wrap up. No conclusion on character relationships growing. Why not end the book a month out when we get to see how everything is going with the new school set up, how there are improvement being make on the building, and get to see the kids all in their new friendships and all that. Instead of jumping ahead to just one day and not giving any info at all?
The action in the book was okay though. I found myself draw in after things actually starting building towards the plot, and liked the characters once I was able to get to know who they really were. I think the book could go through some edits and be a great book, but for now was just okay.
All in all this book was good, but fell flat on a few points. First of all, the whole beginning felt forced. Not to mention there was no foreshadowing. I don't think we needed to know everything that would happen, but it often felt like fact weren't presented until they were needed. Why not have someone mention Silas Tucker being strange early on, or even have someone make fun of Rhonda for her zombie dad well before the fact. It just didn't feel like it really set up the book.
The one big problem I had with the book(other than the photos that were just one big spoiler after another) was that it was the FBI attacking the school. Make it a group pretending to be the power company or something and I might believe it. But the FBI, nope!
Finally, I didn't love that there wasn't a real wrap up. No conclusion on character relationships growing. Why not end the book a month out when we get to see how everything is going with the new school set up, how there are improvement being make on the building, and get to see the kids all in their new friendships and all that. Instead of jumping ahead to just one day and not giving any info at all?
The action in the book was okay though. I found myself draw in after things actually starting building towards the plot, and liked the characters once I was able to get to know who they really were. I think the book could go through some edits and be a great book, but for now was just okay.
December 11, 2018
Thrilling Middle grade read with adventure and excitement!
The 7th grade class of Washington Academy Middle grade receive news that were not expecting for the day. They are NOW in charge. Given no instruction, they are put in charge of making changes for the school. As you would expect, it's total chaos. Few are leaders, most are goofballs, and it is starting to get difficult keeping any kind of organization. They agree to go to the basement, they call the dungeon, to vote on a few items put on the white board. After the voting is finished, they start to leave, and discover something isn't quite right with the school. It's too quiet...way too quiet...
"Officials" are outside, however, with some detective work, they discover what is actually going on....and their situation totally changes. They band together, figure out the clues, and go on an adventure of a lifetime.
I so loved this story! It is consuming, full of humor (how could it not be with 7th graders!), and explodes with creativity. All the characters have different personalities that you easily fall in love with. Even though some of them clash, when it comes right down to the mission of protecting the school, they all come together with their individual skills.
I really recommend this story for all middle grade readers...boys and girls. It is a story that you can't put down, and will probably keep the reader up late at night!
The 7th grade class of Washington Academy Middle grade receive news that were not expecting for the day. They are NOW in charge. Given no instruction, they are put in charge of making changes for the school. As you would expect, it's total chaos. Few are leaders, most are goofballs, and it is starting to get difficult keeping any kind of organization. They agree to go to the basement, they call the dungeon, to vote on a few items put on the white board. After the voting is finished, they start to leave, and discover something isn't quite right with the school. It's too quiet...way too quiet...
"Officials" are outside, however, with some detective work, they discover what is actually going on....and their situation totally changes. They band together, figure out the clues, and go on an adventure of a lifetime.
I so loved this story! It is consuming, full of humor (how could it not be with 7th graders!), and explodes with creativity. All the characters have different personalities that you easily fall in love with. Even though some of them clash, when it comes right down to the mission of protecting the school, they all come together with their individual skills.
I really recommend this story for all middle grade readers...boys and girls. It is a story that you can't put down, and will probably keep the reader up late at night!
November 15, 2017
The 7th grade at Washington School have staged a bloodless Revolution and won. They have been given permission to restructure their learning with some limitations. Then all the teachers and student except the 7th grade leave the school. If that was not interesting enough, the kids find themselves surrounded by the FBI talking about a treasure. It’s up to the kids to find this treasure and protect it from the FBI.
I didn’t realize this book was based on an actual event at the Exploris Middle School. I love how they really engaged the kids and made them think through everything. In the 7th Grade Revolution, the story takes this idea a little further by giving the kids a treasure hunt physically and mentally.
I love the thrillers where the heroes follow clues and discover tidbits of history along the way. This is a great way to teach kids about history while engaging them to read at the same time. I think this is a great story and one that I strongly recommend for mid-grade readers. This is a first book for Liana Gardner and I hope it will not be the last.
I received 7th Grade Revolution from Providence Book Promos for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
I didn’t realize this book was based on an actual event at the Exploris Middle School. I love how they really engaged the kids and made them think through everything. In the 7th Grade Revolution, the story takes this idea a little further by giving the kids a treasure hunt physically and mentally.
I love the thrillers where the heroes follow clues and discover tidbits of history along the way. This is a great way to teach kids about history while engaging them to read at the same time. I think this is a great story and one that I strongly recommend for mid-grade readers. This is a first book for Liana Gardner and I hope it will not be the last.
I received 7th Grade Revolution from Providence Book Promos for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
March 2, 2019
Overall, this book was a lot of fun. Once the adventure gets started, it’s a great ride. The main characters act like thirteen year-olds, but they’re also smart, resourceful, compassionate and brave thirteen year-olds.
The one quibble I have with book is that it poorly establishes the premise. The book is based on a classroom activity in which the 7th graders are told that they have just successfully revolted against their teachers and they are now in charge. The book doesn’t make it clear at the start that the teachers are presenting the revolution idea to the students at the first time. Second to that, and this might be because of my personal background- I went to large public schools starting in kindergarten and through university- but the fact the school itself was a private charter school would have been useful information. Concepts like having a middle school with free study rooms or basements or being able to just mill around the halls were completely foreign to me- not to mention the 7th grade being compromised of only one class.
That said, I highly recommend this book: it’s “Recess: School’s Out” meets “National Treasure”.
The one quibble I have with book is that it poorly establishes the premise. The book is based on a classroom activity in which the 7th graders are told that they have just successfully revolted against their teachers and they are now in charge. The book doesn’t make it clear at the start that the teachers are presenting the revolution idea to the students at the first time. Second to that, and this might be because of my personal background- I went to large public schools starting in kindergarten and through university- but the fact the school itself was a private charter school would have been useful information. Concepts like having a middle school with free study rooms or basements or being able to just mill around the halls were completely foreign to me- not to mention the 7th grade being compromised of only one class.
That said, I highly recommend this book: it’s “Recess: School’s Out” meets “National Treasure”.
October 17, 2017
A school in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Dennis watching a fly bumping into the window as he day-dreamed about hiking along the long trails, or fishing in the cool river. He sure didn't want to be in a classroom. He would rather trade places with the fly and be out in the fresh air. Anything but this!
What a great way to begin a story. Amazing scenes! Wonderful, vividly colored art work! Great characters! I love the setting, and the motivation for the plot.
What kind of artifact was found? Where did it come from, and who found it? Are these 7th graders on to something? These questions and the intrigue that followed, led this reader deeper into the story to find the answers. Liana Gardner came up with an amazing read that had that genuine unique twist on it which keeps the reader excited to the very end! 7th graders are inquisitive. Inspired by true events, helped to engage this story into more exciting scenes. That in itself earned 7TH GRADE REVOLUTION a five star rating. I loved it!
What a great way to begin a story. Amazing scenes! Wonderful, vividly colored art work! Great characters! I love the setting, and the motivation for the plot.
What kind of artifact was found? Where did it come from, and who found it? Are these 7th graders on to something? These questions and the intrigue that followed, led this reader deeper into the story to find the answers. Liana Gardner came up with an amazing read that had that genuine unique twist on it which keeps the reader excited to the very end! 7th graders are inquisitive. Inspired by true events, helped to engage this story into more exciting scenes. That in itself earned 7TH GRADE REVOLUTION a five star rating. I loved it!
October 28, 2017
It started out a tiny bit slow for me and I wasn't sure where it was going... But then the book kind of had an Ah-ha moment! All of the sudden it got really good! This was fun and suspenseful, but what really did it for me was the great cast of characters. I loved these kids! I worked in the school system for years in upstate NY and - yep this is actually what 7th graders act like - spot on. They were all so different and I liked that. Some were shy, some were quirky, a couple were argumentative, and some thought they knew more than anyone else, but they were all so likeable and real. I loved how this group of very different kids came together and learned how to work together, a good lesson for all of us.
The mystery in here will keep you guessing till the end while entertaining you along the way! A nice easy, quick, clean read that can be enjoyed by the young and old. Actually I think this would be a great book for a pre-teen book club!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours ~ Thank You!
The mystery in here will keep you guessing till the end while entertaining you along the way! A nice easy, quick, clean read that can be enjoyed by the young and old. Actually I think this would be a great book for a pre-teen book club!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours ~ Thank You!
October 4, 2017
7th Grade Revolution
by Liana Gardner
Vesuvian Books
Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles
History , Middle Grade
Pub Date 24 Oct 2017
I am reviewing a copy of 7th Grade Revolution through Vesuvian Books and Netgalley:
This book is inspired by true events.
It is obvious that this week in school will be Different when the students decide to do something about the way the school is being ran. They stage a bloodless Revolution. There demands are simple things like being able to use the microwave to heat lunches. They discuss changes in the dress code and the reduction of school hours.
The bloodless Revolution succeeds and suddenly a group of seventh graders have control over the school, but the FBI is lurking outside, wanting to unearth a treasure of national importance.
The students find themselves having to defend their school because there is war between the FBI and the students!
Five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
October 28, 2017
Reminiscent of Book Scavenger and The Unbreakable Code, this book takes important historical concepts and places them in the hands and minds of seventh graders. And what an adventure they have!
From having to piece together clues to learning to overcome fears in order to accomplish an important task, this middle-grade title is quite innovative.
Plot development was quite intricate! In fact, the only word I can use to further describe the plot, as well as the character development is - amazing!
Now, I would have been one of the seventh graders who would have relished in the wonderful atmosphere this book created. However, in the 21st century, I can see some elementary school-aged children (like my son, who has been quite interested in what I have been reading lately) enjoying this lovely read. I have already recommended this book to my local Baltimore library!
Highly recommend this book for young children and teens. 5-stars!
From having to piece together clues to learning to overcome fears in order to accomplish an important task, this middle-grade title is quite innovative.
Plot development was quite intricate! In fact, the only word I can use to further describe the plot, as well as the character development is - amazing!
Now, I would have been one of the seventh graders who would have relished in the wonderful atmosphere this book created. However, in the 21st century, I can see some elementary school-aged children (like my son, who has been quite interested in what I have been reading lately) enjoying this lovely read. I have already recommended this book to my local Baltimore library!
Highly recommend this book for young children and teens. 5-stars!
November 12, 2017
If you were in 7th grade what would you do if you heard that the FBI wanted to close down your school? Would you try to save it or go along? At Washington Academy Middle School, the 7th grade class decided to fight the FBI for not closing their school permanently. The FBI want to find something that could change the United States history. What could it be? How did the 7th grade class learn of the FBI's intentions? Does the class discover the artifact?
I loved the mystery and action in this novel. As you read about the mystery and the ones who solve the clues, I think you will be as intrigued as I was. It is a fun read. The kids are unique and smart. The twists and turns are well written by the author. Don't miss it!
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
I loved the mystery and action in this novel. As you read about the mystery and the ones who solve the clues, I think you will be as intrigued as I was. It is a fun read. The kids are unique and smart. The twists and turns are well written by the author. Don't miss it!
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
October 27, 2020
7th grade revolution is a book that talks in the point of view of Dennis Alexander and Rhonda Snodgrass. At first this novel starts out with the students wining a revolution against the teachers and as they are deciding the rules for the 7th grade after the revolution. Then the FBI evacuates the school in search of something the 7th graders find out what the FBI is searching for is from the revolutionary war and the students must find it before the FBI shuts down their school to search for it. As this story switches perspectives and shows the 7th graders preparing, we get a look into Dennis’s and Rhonda’s past. In my opinion, this novel is a great book for 7th graders to read. I also think that every grade above 7t h grade should read it to so they can see this adventure for the 7th graders.
September 7, 2017
The 7th grade students at Washington School have been granted permission to make their own rules for the school year about classes, schedules and lessons. As they are trying to make decisions that appeal to every student, they discover that the FBI is trying to take over the school to find "something" that the Builder of the school/home had hidden inside. The students work together to save their school and solve the mystery. The story is based in part on a true story from Maryland of students having a revolution to make new rules. The book has adventure and team building, but at times it seemed too easy for them to solve the problems. 5th through 8th graders will enjoy the story and the adventure of solving the mystery.
August 3, 2018
I’m an almost 7th Grader who LOVED this book!
7th Grade Revolution was such an exciting book to read! I have to say it was suspenseful. There were times when I just wanted to turn another page because I had to see what was going to happen next. I have a hard time finding books I can get into and love to read, but 7th Grade Revolution changed that for me. It was so good I read for a couple hours a day! It was fun trying to guess what the clues meant and how things would turn out. My favorite character was either Rhonda or Maddie. I felt like I really knew all of them. They seemed like real seventh graders and not made-up characters. I would definitely recommend this book to all of my friends. I hope my seventh grade year starting in a few weeks is going to be this exciting!!
7th Grade Revolution was such an exciting book to read! I have to say it was suspenseful. There were times when I just wanted to turn another page because I had to see what was going to happen next. I have a hard time finding books I can get into and love to read, but 7th Grade Revolution changed that for me. It was so good I read for a couple hours a day! It was fun trying to guess what the clues meant and how things would turn out. My favorite character was either Rhonda or Maddie. I felt like I really knew all of them. They seemed like real seventh graders and not made-up characters. I would definitely recommend this book to all of my friends. I hope my seventh grade year starting in a few weeks is going to be this exciting!!
December 17, 2018
Note: This Review contains NO spoilers
An entertaining easy read for children and middle graders. Inspired by true events, Liana has written a delightful and clean story filled with adventure and mystery, with some intricate twists and turns that made this a fun read. With an interesting story and diverse characters, 7th Grade Revolution made for an insightful and thrilling action adventure that was not only fun to read, but also a clever tie in which relayed the relevance of school education and parenting is to not just these young characters, but or all children and middle graders in general. This will get those young minds thinking... 🤔🤔🤔
Reviewer: Jasmine
Disclaimer: We received a free copy for an honest review. All is my own opinion
An entertaining easy read for children and middle graders. Inspired by true events, Liana has written a delightful and clean story filled with adventure and mystery, with some intricate twists and turns that made this a fun read. With an interesting story and diverse characters, 7th Grade Revolution made for an insightful and thrilling action adventure that was not only fun to read, but also a clever tie in which relayed the relevance of school education and parenting is to not just these young characters, but or all children and middle graders in general. This will get those young minds thinking... 🤔🤔🤔
Reviewer: Jasmine
Disclaimer: We received a free copy for an honest review. All is my own opinion
May 23, 2018
I received this book as part of an ARC review. The book is very good and hard to put down. A class project turns real when the FBI evacuate the school except for the 7th graders who were hiding at the time. To beat the FBI to the prize, they go on a treasure hunt based on the clues left by the school founder. I like the history that was mixed in as well as how the students pulled together to succeed. The kids bring the FBI to heel and are rewarded both with citations for meritorious service signed by the President of the United States and finding Silas' stash of money that will keep their school open. I would highly recommend reading this book.
September 17, 2017
I'm working on writing my review now and it will be posted here after it goes live on my blog on or after release day. I will say that this felt a bit like a modern day Goonies. Also, the things that didn't work for me in the story were mostly because I'm not a 7th grader, so it detracted from the story for me, but it makes sense for the target audience. I'd definitely recommend this to my son in a couple years.
October 15, 2017
I enjoyed this story. I thought it was fun, insightful, and a good read for kids that are looking to get more out of school.
Overall, I would definitely recommend it with the hope that it would help kids realize why school can be important and why listening to your parents and paying attention in school is important.
But a fun, quick read that will definitely have kids wishing they could be a part of this 7th grade.
Overall, I would definitely recommend it with the hope that it would help kids realize why school can be important and why listening to your parents and paying attention in school is important.
But a fun, quick read that will definitely have kids wishing they could be a part of this 7th grade.
November 15, 2017
Based upon a real exercise in a middle school - with a fictitious quest thrown in. The adventure is engaging and I think middle school students will enjoy the ride; heck, I enjoyed the ride. A bit of attention to detail in action descriptions would have put this up to 4 stars.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews