CK’s Comments (group member since Aug 20, 2024)

CK’s comments from the 7ENG2 24-25 group.

Gone-Away Lake is a pleasant and well-written book that tells the story of two cousins, Portia and Julian, who on holiday discover a mysterious, almost forgotten lakeside village. They meet two old siblings, Minnehaha and Pindar, who still live on the ruins of the once booming resort. The book is full of curiosity, nature, and the magic of discovering something completely unexpected.

What I liked:

I enjoyed the setting it was as if stepping into another age. The idea of a forgotten, aging town brought to life by imagination and friendship was really quite different and cozy. The relationship between the children and the older characters was also warm. This created the book thrilling and comforting all at once.

What I did not enjoy:

The rhythm is a bit slow at times, especially if you're used to fast-paced books. There are parts that are descriptive rather than action packed, which may not appeal to everyone. But if you prefer to read books that create a world gradually, this may still be acceptable to you.

Who I'd recommend it to:

I’d recommend Gone-Away Lake to readers who love gentle, thoughtful adventures especially kids around 9–12 who like nature, mysteries, and stories about friendship. It’s also a great choice for anyone who enjoys old-fashioned, classic storytelling.

COOL

What I Liked

One of the best parts of the book is how it explores Ronaldo’s relentless drive to be the best. The author does a great job of highlighting his training habits, discipline, and mindset, which make him stand out even among other elite players. The behind-the-scenes stories about his time at Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and beyond are fascinating, offering a deeper understanding of how he evolved as a player and a person.

Another strong aspect is how Balagué doesn’t just praise Ronaldo but also presents a balanced view. He discusses Ronaldo’s rivalries, struggles with criticism, and his complex personality, showing both his strengths and weaknesses.

What I Disliked

While the book is well-researched, at times it feels a bit too detailed, especially when discussing tactics and statistics. Some parts can feel repetitive, particularly when emphasizing Ronaldo’s work ethic and training routines. Additionally, the book doesn’t always offer enough insight into Ronaldo’s personal life outside of football, which could have made the story more well-rounded.

Conclusion

Overall, Cristiano Ronaldo: The Biography is a compelling read for football fans and those interested in learning about the mindset of a champion. It provides a well-rounded look at Ronaldo’s career and personality, though it might be a bit too detailed for casual readers.

Recommendation

I would recommend this book to football fans, especially those who admire Ronaldo or want to understand what it takes to reach the top level of the sport. However, if you’re looking for a more personal, emotional biography, this might not be the best choice.

Book Review: Weird But True! 300 Outrageous Facts

This book is perfect for curious kids, trivia lovers, and anyone who enjoys fun, surprising facts. Weird But True! by National Geographic Kids is packed with 300 bizarre, funny, and mind-blowing facts that make learning exciting. With colorful visuals and information, it’s an engaging read for young readers who love exploring the weirdest parts of the world.

One of the best things about this book is its ability to make education fun. The facts are short but fascinating, covering a wide range of topics like animals, space, history, and science. The vibrant design and eye-catching images make it easy to flip through and hard to put down. It’s a great way to spark and encourage kids to ask questions about the world around them.

However, because the book is focused on quick facts rather than deep explanations, some readers might wish for more details on certain topics. Additionally, older kids or adults might find some facts too simple if they’re already familiar with them. Still, it’s a fantastic choice for younger readers or anyone who enjoys quick, fun knowledge.

Overall, Weird But True! is an entertaining and educational book that makes learning feel like an adventure. It’s perfect for kids who love questions, parents looking for a fun way to encourage reading, and even adults who enjoy a dose of random, fascinating facts.

Book Review: Messi vs. Ronaldo: One Rivalry, Two GOATs, and the Era That Remade the World’s Game

This book is a must-read for football fans who want a deeper understanding of the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry beyond simple stats and fan debates. It’s especially great for those interested in how football evolved in the modern era, from the sport to the rise of social media. If you’re a die-hard supporter of either player, you’ll find plenty of insights, but the book maintains a balanced perspective, making it enjoyable for neutrals as well.

One of the book’s biggest strengths is its depth of research and storytelling. The authors, both experienced journalists, do an excellent job of placing Messi and Ronaldo’s careers in a broader context, explaining how their rivalry shaped club football and transformed the sport globally. The writing is engaging, filled with behind-the-scenes stories and historical analysis that make it more than just a player comparison.

However, if you’re looking for a definitive answer to the GOAT debate, you won’t find it here. The book focuses on analysis rather than taking sides, which might disappoint fans who want one player declared the best. Additionally, while it covers their careers well, some sections may feel repetitive if you’re already familiar with their stories.

Overall, Messi vs. Ronaldo is a fascinating read for football enthusiasts, sports historians, and anyone curious about how these two legends changed the game. It provides a balanced, well-researched look at a rivalry that defined an era, making it a worthy addition to any football fan’s bookshelf.

Book Review: Steph Curry: The Inspiring Story of One of Basketball’s Greatest by Clayton Geoffreys

Steph Curry: The Inspiring Story of One of Basketball’s Greatest by Clayton Geoffreys offers an engaging and thorough look into the life and career of NBA superstar Stephen Curry. From his humble beginnings in Akron, Ohio, to becoming a global basketball icon, Geoffreys explores Curry’s remarkable journey, focusing not only on his athletic prowess but also on the life lessons that have shaped him as a person both on and off the court.

What I Enjoyed:
Geoffreys does a great job of highlighting Curry’s work ethic and mindset, showcasing how his dedication and belief in himself helped him overcome numerous obstacles—whether it was being overlooked in high school, doubted in college, or facing early criticisms in the NBA. The book sheds light on the core values that have defined Curry’s career, such as humility, resilience, and a commitment to constant self-improvement. It’s inspiring to read how Curry turned adversity into motivation, and how his leadership on the court extends to his influence off it, especially in his philanthropic efforts and advocacy for social change.

What I Disliked:
At times, the book leans heavily into game statistics and detailed accounts of his basketball accomplishments. While this is great for fans of Curry’s on-court achievements, those looking for a deeper exploration of his personal life or a more reflective narrative may find some sections a bit dry or repetitive.

Recommendation:
I’d recommend this book to basketball fans and anyone interested in learning from a modern-day role model. Curry’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and staying true to one’s values, making it a great read not just for sports enthusiasts but for anyone seeking inspiration in overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness.

Overall:
Steph Curry: The Inspiring Story of One of Basketball’s Greatest by Clayton Geoffreys is an uplifting and motivating biography that chronicles both the career and character of one of the NBA’s most influential players. While it occasionally focuses more on his statistical achievements, the life lessons and personal growth Curry exhibits throughout his journey make this book a valuable read for anyone looking to learn from his example. It’s a compelling testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and maintaining a positive attitude, both on and off the court.

Book Review: LeBron James by John Walter

LeBron James by John Walter is a detailed biography of one of the greatest basketball players in history. The book explores LeBron’s rise from a challenging childhood in Akron, Ohio, to his emergence as an NBA legend. It highlights key moments in his career, his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and his return to Cleveland, as well as his impact off the court as a philanthropist and activist.

What I Enjoyed: The book does a great job of balancing LeBron’s career achievements with insights into his personal life. Walter brings attention to both his basketball skills and his leadership off the court. It’s clear that LeBron is portrayed not just as an athlete, but as a man who strives to make a difference.

What I Disliked: Some parts of the book can feel more focused on statistics and game details than deeper personal reflection. If you’re looking for more interesting moments, it might feel a bit boring

Recommendation: I’d recommend this book to basketball fans and anyone interested in sports biographies. It’s also a great read for those curious about how LeBron has used his platform for change.

I think this book is really fun to read because it got all the cool picture and even a drawing that you can do in the end when you finish the book.It is also fill with a bunch of fun creative idea.The start of the book is also a really creative idea.The end was also really cool with all the fighting and a happy ending.But the thing i dislike was it was kinda all the same characters because i have read other book of dog man.this book is comic so non fiction i would recommend this to someone who want to read fun and enjoyable book.The part i really enjoy was was there was a cool fight scene and i would say this book is also for children just like me.