Q2L 10 ELA discussion

1. Your book review should be at least 15 sentences. Talk about why or why you would not recommend this book to another person.

2. What was most memorable about your book?

3. Would you read other books by this author? Why, or why not?

4. Choose "add book/author" above and find your book and rate it with stars.

Power, Sex, Suicide: Mitochondria and the Meaning of Life
Four out of five stars

I have just finished reading the book "Power, Sex, Suicide", by Nick Lane. This book was about mitochondria, the little power plants in our cells, the same size as bacteria. They may be small, but they are essential for all life as we know it, even so much so as for the origin of the eukaryotic cell to be linked directly to the origin of the mitochondria.

While reading this book, I have learned a lot about how mitochondria work, keeping our body alive, and sometimes killing us. Mitochondria produce ATP, a chemical that has bond very rich in energy. When these bonds are broken, it releases this energy and our body uses it to carry out life functions. However, mitochondria have a dark side as well. They used to be free-living bacteria, and, though most of the conflict of interest between the cell at large and the mitochondria has been eliminated, there are still disagreements. These disagreements are severe enough to lead to diseases like cancer and other degenerative illnesses.

I would recommend this book to someone who has an interest in microbiology and biological chemistry. They would also have to be at a relativity high reading level, as some of the concepts in the book are a little bit hard to grasp or understand. This book can get a little dry at times, and Lane is not the best writer in the world, but overall I would recommend this to a friend.

The most memorable part of this book was when Lane talked about how mitochondria are involved in aging and degenerative diseases. I thought that the relationships between body mass and metabolic rate plotted on a log graph were very interesting, and shed a lot of light on the process of life and death. I will probably read a few more of Lane's books, as I have them available and he is a very forward-minded and entertaining writer.


This book is 356 pages long and includes a glossary, index, and list of reference materials for those interested.

The Lady and the Monk: Four Seasons in Kyoto

5 out of 5

Yesterday, I finished reading a book called "The Lady and the Monk", by Pico Iyer. Iyer's account of living in the Kyoto area of Japan for one year is as mesmerizingly beautiful as the falling of cherry blossoms in spring. His masterful writing enraptures the mind with vivid descriptions of people's feelings and the environment.

The book itself takes place over in Kyoto, spanning one year in which Iyer lived solely in Japan, immersing himself in the culture. He started his journey to try to find the meaning of Buddhism and Zen, but ended it with a deep understanding and feelings for Japan. Knowing but a few words of Japanese and even less of their culture, he threw himself into a Buddhist monastery, meditating for hours a day. Eventually, he meets many friends, both from Japan and from his home city of Santa Barbara.

I greatly enjoyed this book for many reasons. One of these reasons was that I have an interest in Japanese and Asian cultures. Having a person who was a gaijin get so intimate in to Japanese culture, which so famously shuns foreigners, was a rare combination of an insiders and an outsiders perspectives. Iyer's evocative prose only helps the book, generating rich sounds, smells, and images in your mind as you read. The explanations of Japanese traditions and religion was greatly appreciated, and helps a foreign mind grasp the difference of their life. Iyer's inclusion of Japanese poetry from the likes of Bashō and Akiko bring to mind the peacefulness of meditation and Zen, helping the book create the atmosphere it strives for.

I would definitely recommend this book to a friend. That person would have to be interested in Asian culture, as I do not think that it would be very interesting to someone who was not.

Overall, I greatly enjoyed Iyer's writing and will consider reading his other books, much of them in a similar vein to this one.

Ideology, Culture, and Han

4 out of 5

"Ideology, Culture, and Han" is the type of book that many people will look at and ask: "Why are you reading that?!" I personally have an interest in Korean culture, and this book was a recommended starter. In this book, Lee Younghee examines women's literature and poetry throughout the periods of the Joseon dynasty, as well as the early 1900's the beginning of the modern period. The Joseon dynasty has long been considered a "dark age" in Korean history. Women were treated as little more than objects, to be played with and used by men. Needless to say, many women developed feelings of resent towards the men in the society. They expressed these feelings with han. Han is a feeling of overwhelming anger and isolation, brought about through oppression. Having no way to release the han lawfully, many women turned to writing poetry, creating some of the most beautiful poems in the world and giving us an insight into the culture of this period.

I did enjoy this book while I was reading it. It gives a comprehensive overview of a multitude of songs and poems, many of them translated from the original Korean by Younghee herself. Through her explanations, I understood the poems much better than I would have without them. For example, one of the first poems shown in this work has the double meaning of both being a poem of love and a poem denoting the moves of chess pieces during a game. The chess interpretation is not evident in the English translation, and requires explanation in order to understand how much work and thought went into writing it. The book ends with an examination of the early modern period and the beginning of the acceptance of women writers. Younghee examines the short story "The Suspicious Girl" by Kim Myeong-sun.

Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot for many reasons. I would recommend this to a friend, but only if they had a deep interest in Korean culture and were not afraid of a real book on the examination of literature.

I do not believe that Younghee has written any other books, but if she has, I would most likely read them.

The book i read was Double Identity by Margaret Peterson Haddix. My rating is 5/5 Stars.
This book is about just before Bethany turns thirteen, when her parents begin to act strangely. Then one day Bethany's parents pack her into the car and take her to live with an aunt that she has never met before. The mystery deepens when her father sends her package containing four different birth certificates with four different names, and thousands of dollars in cash. Not only that but everyone who sees Bethany seems to think that she looks like someone they used to know, someone who is now dead. Bethany must unravel this mystery and figure out what is happening, and why she is in danger. Bethany discovers that she is a clone and must save herself from a man named Dalton Van Dyne. Dalton Van Dyne finds out where she is and is out to look for her and her parents. In the end, she tells the truth about who she is to Dalton Van Dyne and reunites with her parents and lives happily again. I would read other books by Margret because she writes science fiction. That book kept me inside the entire time. Double Identity

I read Clean by Amy Reed. I would rate this a 5/5!
The book was looking in the eyes of two teenagers Kelly, Christopher, Jason, Olivia and Eva in a rehab facility. I would recommend this book to people who are interested in deep teen dramas. The most memorable part of this book is in the personal essays, this is when all 5 of the teenagers talk about there families and stuff that happend before they came to rehab. I really liked 2 stories the most. One of the characters Olivia talked about how she started smoking weed, her mother died so she was left with her dad, Olivia's dad paid no attention to her and she basically just wanted him to be a father. She thought she lost two parents at once and it was sad so she filled the sadness with drugs, when she finally got caught it was like she was pulled back into reality. The other story I really liked was Jason. He was sent to rehab after watching his 1 year old sister while he was drunk. Jason went down to the basement to get more liquor and forgot to close the child proof jail. His little sister followed him by crawling, feel down the stairs and suffered permanent brain damage. I would love to read more of Amy Reeds books because she writes about teen drama and deep emotional things. Clean

Pterosaurs: Natural History, Evolution, Anatomy
5 out of 5


"Pterosaurs", by Mark P. Witton, is a beautiful book in more ways than one. The book examines all the features of pterosaur behavior, anatomy, flight, and possible evolutionary history. The author himself has drawn over 100 original illustrations, depicting pterosaurs realistically, in their natural environment as they seldom have before.

This book examines fifteen clades of pterosaurs in great detail, while not becoming too impenetrable for the non-scientist. Witton has a gift for writing in an entertaining manner, using a lighthearted tone to make hard science seem simple. At the same time, he will appeal to both the upstart and the experienced pterosaurologist, spitting out sentences such as, "The medial margin of the upper temporal fenestra is often confluent with the base of a supraoccipital cranial crest, a variably shaped cranial ornament that emerges from the posterodorsal region of some pterosaur skulls." In this way, he will capture everyone who reads the book with both science and wit.

One thing that I liked about the book was that Witton examined every single pterosaur clade that we know exists, and even one or two that we don't know exist. He looks at such famous pterosaurs as the pteronodontians and the ornithocheirids, and also looks at less well known clades, like the dubious "Campylognathoids".

I enjoyed this book a very large amount. It gave me a new perspective on the science and fact of pterosaurs, and invoked a sense of wonder that such creatures ever existed. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend, due to it's easy-to-read language and comprehensive coverage of all things pterosaurs.

The Book i read was Have a Nice Day!: A Tale of Blood and Sweat socks By Mick Foley.
5/5 stars
The book Have a Nice Day!: A Tale of Blood and Sweat socks is an autobiography of former wrestler Mick Foley. It details his life all the way from his upbringing in New York to winning the WWF Championship from The Rock in December 1998. Basically the book begins with a quick account of his WCW match with Big Van Vader on March 17, 1994, in which Foley's right ear was ripped off. It then goes back to 1983, when Foley was eighteen. From there it details his early life in college and the filming of his notorious short film "The Loved One", as well as a piece called "The Legend of Frank Foley" (Frank because a beautiful girl he had gotten a date with could not remember his real name) in which for the first time he introduced a character called "Dude Love". According to Foley, at the time the Dude was his vision of what he thought a man should be. "The Loved One" was enough to impress wrestler Dominic DeNucci, who would then train Foley to wrestle. I would read other books by Mick because he writes about his wrestling career and it interests. me. Have A Nice Day: A Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks

The book I read was The Green Mile by Stephen King.
5/5 stars
I would most definitely recommend this book to anybody who doesn't mind reading about another past time period, and likes realistic fiction. Something that was very memorable from this book is how Stephen King almost lets you enter in this world. He portrays the characters so well, and is like you can relate to how they are feeling. It is also how it makes you feel. This book is about the death block in prison and somehow allows you to have some sort of sympathy for certain prisoners despite the heinous crimes they committed. I would read other books by this author. I've read another and its like being immersed into another world.
The Green Mile

The book i read was Along For The Ride by Sarah Dessen. I would recommend this book because its fun to read and shows the transformation of many characters through the book. It begins with many characters with strong personalities and as the book goes along you either learn about different sides to that person or they change into a more flexible likable one. The interesting part is watching how it all comes to be and the situations that bring them there.

The most memerable thing about this book to me is the "quest" Auden (the main character) takes. If you read the book you'll know what I'm talking about but basically she has a very work and study oriented high school experience so in her senior year summer she meets this guy and he helps her get all the experiences like partying and food fights she never had. I like the message this gives because it really never is to late to try something you haven't done or making the change you've always wanted to make. I've read many books by this author and i would love to read more. She has just the right idea of what appeals to teenage girls and how to make a relatable yet interesting story with a little depth. Her stories never seem to get repetitive and she always represents a different situation in a different location while still bringing forth the problems of friendship and relationships. There's always sparks between her characters and she manages to make you care about the character even when you don't love their personality. The only critique i have on this book is that everything was getting better for Auden and she has a big falling out where she goes completely back to her old ways and i find that the reason for her falling out isn't valid enough plus it lasted a little to long became kind of depressing but in the end all ended happily so i guess all is well that ends well.

Along for the Ride I rate it 4/5 stars.
This book is 395 pages.

Five out of Five
"The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins, was a really good book. I would recommend it to anyone because it really makes you feel like you are in the story with the main character fighting along side her. The most memorable moment in this book would have to be when Katniss (the main character) gets into the tube that will send her off into the unknown of the arena, in which she will fight to her death. Would I read any other books made by this author. I would say yes mainly because the Hunger Games is a trilogy and I already bought the next one that comes after it. I am really looking forward to reading the next two books in the trilogy.
The Hunger Games

Three out of Five
"Struck" by Jennifer Bosworth was a ok book in my opinion. I mean it had a good plot and it was twisted, but i didn't really feel so into it. I just read this book to get a little break off the hunger games before I read the next one. So this book is about a teenager who is addicted to lighting,yeah actual lighting. And she has these lightning scars all over her body that makes her like a symbol to be the prophet to end the world. The most memorable moment about this book is the ending where she is on top on the tower and takes in all the lighting into her body so the rest of the world and it's population doesn't die. I wouldn't read another book from this author, I'll have to see what it is about first. I would recommend this book to people who are into dystopian type of novels.Struck

My book that I read Was The Bully by Paul Langan.

The reason why i chose to read this book is because this book is just the same as real life. Like people in life actually go through the problems that were in this book everyday in school also outside of school. While reading this book i felt like as if in were in Darrel (protagonist) shoes. Like i was him for the book. I can relfect to this book. The book is a bullying book. I wouldnt banned this book i would let schools keep the book because than it could give people new ides on what to do in a position also if the person reading the book is a bully him/her self than it might change who they are and the way they act to people. I would recommend this book to anyone.

I think that the most memorable part of my book while i read it was when he moved to a new town and to a new school. Also when he started to get bullied by Tyray(antagonist). I think this because these two parts were like a new life to Darrel because he had to meet new people. Also he didnt get bullied in bis old school so getting bullied in his new school was a big differnce for him he felt weird i mean who wouldnt feel wierd and be scared when there getting bullied. its not the same as the old.


Would i read other books by this author? yess i would because this author has a series of books. i think this author is a great influence for students in and out of school. The author shows what its like to get bullied in school.

The book I'm reviewing is called Unkillable by Patrick E. McLean. I would Recommend this book to others as a short, interesting, read. I think the most memorable moment for me is when the main character is stuck under a dead body in a river. It was a small part in the beginning of the book, but the way it was described made it seem so realistic. I would guess its one of my favorite scenes. The author has a couple of other books, namely How to Succeed in Evil, Consultation With a Vampire, and Hostile Takeover. Just from the name, the books look interesting to read, and I wouldn't mind to take some time to get them. If I had to rate my book, I'd give it Four out of Five? I find it better than Harry Potter or Hungergames with its story and humor, but maybe that's just me. This kind of book is kind of hard to recommend to other people because of some of the ways it describes death and murder, but its not like it could actually happen so it shouldn't be taken seriously. Oh, another one of my favorite scenes is when the protagonist is in the police morgue and he freaks out the girl that works there. I hope this is fifteen sentences, I'm a little too lazy to count...

I read a book called The 39 clues by Rick Riordan.

I read this book because i thought it would be interesting. When i got to the reading i actually liked it and it turned out to be really interesting. The book would be a good book to read while your on an adventure or even if you want to see how to find clues. The book was about these two people a brother and sister. They wanted to win a prize/money they had to go look for clues and evidence that can lead them to the next and eventually they would get to the end and be stuck because there would be more to it. It would just end easily its hard. The family got into some trouble and they had to fight their way out of it and find the next clue. Each clue that they found lead them to the next. Sometimes they would have to make a deciousion on which way to go. Sometimes they would have a debate like they would want to go each way but they couldnt leave each together and they didnt want to lose each other. The book got more ineteresting its almost like csi and law and order in sometype of way so thats another reasion why i chose to read it.

I think that the most memorable part of the book was when they wanted to go seperate ways because they had their own idas like they were thinking differently. I liked this part because it shows that5 they can depend on each other and they wouldnt blame eachother when they were wrong. To me it showed me a strong connection that they had between each other.

Would i read other books by this author?? Yes i would because the author is very good at making books like this like there interesting and fun to read. Tha author actually has many books like a series of books and they tempt to get harder like more deeply like another level in a video game. There fun books.

Hiroshima
5 out of 5

I have just finished reading the book "Hiroshima", by John Hersey. This book describes, in shocking detail, the intimate lives of six survivors of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima on August 6th, 1945. Hersey goes on to show how these people coped, what they did, who they were with, and the destroyed environment around them. For many people, this was the first glimpse into what horror was brought upon this city and it's inhabitants. Originally published in 1946, the book covers events up to one year after the bombing. However, almost 40 years later, just a few years before Hersey's death, he revisited Hiroshima and attempted to find the people whom has been the subjects of the former part of his book. Once he found them, he wrote the last chapter of Hiroshima, which describes how each of the six individuals went on to live in the decades after the bombing. Some of them went on to become hugely successful doctors and businessmen, while others never were fully cured of the deadly radiation sickness.

This book does not shy away from the facts. Over 100,000 were killed in the instant the bomb fell, with an additional 50,000 dying slowly over the next few weeks. The horrifying detail with which Hersey writes is at times disturbing and depressing, but I believe that it is necessary, to prevent something like this happening again in the near future.

Overall, I "enjoyed" this book. The word "enjoyed", however, is a bit of a misnomer. I do not think it is possible to fully enjoy a book such as this. I did find it mind-opening, sad, enlightening, and it made me think of the people who developed the bomb dropped not as scientific geniuses (though they surely were) but as killers, mass murderers without a heart.

Spring Snow
4 out of 5

I have recently finished reading the book "Spring Snow", or "春の雪 Haru no Yuki" by Yukio Mishima. This book is the first in Mishima's widely acclaimed tetrology, and introduces the reader to the main characters, Shigekuni Honda and his friend, Kiyoaki Matsugae. The book is set in 1912, at the beginning of the Taisho period in Japan and recently after the Russo-Japanese war ended. Kiyoaki is the son of a family who is not traditionally nobility, and these families are slowly taking over the Japanese society. The 19 year old Kiyoaki has never really fit in with the rest of the world. He is aloof, uncaring, and melancholy. His friend Honda is the direct opposite, focused on his studies and on becoming a lawyer. Kiyoaki's family, the Matsugaes are close friends with another traditional aristocratic family, the Ayakuras. They have one daughter, Satoko, whom has been Kiyoaki's friend since early childhood.

Here is where the main plot of the book begins. The story superficially centers on the relationship between Kiyoaki and Satoko. However, it is truly a story of love, loss, government, religion, and the drastically changing landscape of power in early modern era Japan.

About halfway through the book, Satoko learns of a betrothal offer from a member of the current royal family of Japan. She must accept in order to keep the honor of her family intact, even though she may not want to. This is when Kiyoaki realizes that he is desperately in love with Satoko. So begins a love affair doomed from the beginning, self-destructive to all involved. Mishima discusses themes of Buddhist beliefs and the idea of reincarnation in the Japanese society in great detail. This is important to the plot in later books.

I would recommend this book to friend, if they liked Japan, especially feudal Japan, and it's culture. The translation is superbly done, and replicates the beauty of Japanese prose. The only problem with the book is that sometimes, the perspective switching can get confusing. Mishima switches characters with little to no warning, and though it is third person, it is sometimes jarring.

The Lightning Thief
5 out of 5

I would recommend this book because it's a great read that incorporates action and plot twists. Percy Jackson, son of Poseidon, has received his quest. With his friend Grover, and his new friend Annabeth, have to return Zeus' master bolt by the summer solstice to prevent war.

The most memorable moment in the book was at the end which set up the main conflict for the next book. Percy had already returned the lightning bolt and Hades' helm of darkness, and was reflecting at Camp Half-Blood. Everybody else has already left camp, even Annabeth has gone back to her family. He sees Luke, his friend at camp, and they sword battle one last time. After they finished, Luke explains to him that he is the one that took the bolt and he is working for Kronos. Percy realizes that the oracle told him of this at his quest, but Luke attacks Percy and he gets away.

I would definitely read other books by this author because I love his details in each scene of the book. I have always been interested in greek mythology and he has a Percy Jackson series. His books connect the myths to the setting of today, which I like.

The book I read was To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

This is a book mainly known for its use as a high school ELA reading book, like The Great Gatsby. I believe that this ruined it's reputation as an amazing work of American literature. The story on the surface is a great one with a load of metaphorical meanings as well. Even the name of the book To Kill a Mockingbird fits with this theme.

I think that Harper Lee's writing in the book is legendary, And this story would be told a fraction as well without it. I would defiantly read more books by her.

*Some spoilers, but you dont really care do you.*

To Kill a Mockingbird is a story about Scout and Jem Finch and their adventures growing up. The novel takes place over 2 and a half years in which Scout (the protagonist) learns many lessons about life, and society.

The most memorable moment is the trial of Tom Robinson, who gets accused of raping a white girl and their father has been asked to defend him. Scout's father does a brilliant job of defending him but the jury is all white. This is a very important part of the book, Scout learns that the world doesn't see everything through logic, but hate and fear. They end of losing the trial but it taught Scout a second lesson, true bravery is fighting, tooth and nail to the very end, when you know you will lose.


5/5
376 pages.

The classic I just finished wasAnimal Farm by George Orwell

Animal Farm is a satirical commentary on totalitarianism, its reality and what it is commonly thought of. As this is a novella I can't really give a review without some spoilers so, warning. It all begins in a fairy tale like moment where a wise old man (now animal) is dying and gives his last wisdom to all. He teaches them a song, "The Beasts of England" and 7 commandments. (Sound familiar?) With this he incites rebellion in the animals and they overthrow their master. This is where most fairy tales end but reality kicks in. The first few years are good and prosperous, but the fallowing season Napoleon, a pig, chases out his rival, Snowball. All the checks to his powers are either gone, or dumb.

This is where the traditional thought of totalitarianism is questioned. Napoleon doesn't take over by force immediately but instead slowly convinces everyone that he is smart, and the best at everything. This is contrary to the normal thought of strict, iron fist control. In fact, until the very end of the book, everyone is happy, or thinks they are, which is ironic as they are worse off then they were under a master.

Overall the writing and story of this book is legendary and I am going to enjoy reading more of George Orwell's books.
5/5
141 pages

Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld is a continuation of the steampunk themed Leviathan Trilogy. It takes place in an alternate reality of World War One, in which the Allies powers use Darwinism to create beasts of war made of muscle and sinew, while the Allied Powers (or Clankers) use gas-powered walkers and mechanical equipment. Essentially, it is Beasts vs. Machines. Behemoth focuses on Istanbul. Deryn is stranded away from the Leviathan, and Alek is trying to form a revolution that will topple the current Sultan and keep the Ottomans out of the war on the Axis’ side.


The plot is well thought out exciting and strong, but can also be a little confusing at times. We get to see Deryn struggle with her developing feelings for Alek, thinking that being a prince, they can never hope to marry (oh, and Alek still doesn’t know Deryn is a girl, she passes by the name Dylan). Being that the Ottoman Empire is a clanker nation, Alek feels completely at home, while Deryn feels the odd one out. For the past week or so, Deryn has been teaching Alek about the Leviathan; he was the uncomfortable one there, but suddenly everything is turned on its head. She doesn't feel comfortable around the lifeless gears and metal, the constant hissing of steam and the ceaseless clank clank clank of walkers lumbering about. In other words, the characters and plot are deeply compelling, and the protagonists emotions play a pivotal role in the story.

However, the book seems to lack a true antagonist. It is clear that Germany is the aggressor, and that Alek and Deryn must work with a group of revolutionaries to keep the Ottomans out of the war, but other than a few close encounters with their foes, the majority of the book is spent with them sneaking around the city, trying not to attract unwanted attention.
Overall, this is a great book, around a 3 to 4 1/2. stars. The plot is stable, and universe of the trilogy is well thought out, and is greatly enhanced by Keith Thompson's astounding artwork. This book is 485 pages of awesomeness.

Picking up where A Lion's Tale left off, Y2J takes you through his WWE career to date beginning with the infamous debut segment on Raw where he interrupted The Rock turning out to be one of the most unique debuts in recent memory. Despite this fact, Jericho's early days in the WWE were no different than many before him as he recalls the massive heat he developed backstage as he tried to adjust to the WWE way of doing things.

Jericho's story is both intriguing and hilarious at the same time. Coming from WCW to the WWE was a major transition for Chris. In the first few weeks and months of his WWE career he managed to piss off locker room leaders like The Undertaker and Triple H, developed a reputation of being green as grass and nearly had his "Walls of Jericho" finisher named "The Salad Shooter" of all things. Yes that's right, WWE's creative team offered up some of the dumbest names one can think of, and Jericho includes the original email to prove it.Undisputed: How to Become the World Champion in 1,372 Easy Steps

The Master of Go

I have recently finished "The Master of Go", by Yasunari Kawabata. This book is an interesting blend of half fiction and half non-fiction. This is because Kawabata draws upon his experiences documenting the real life 1933 match between Master Shūsai and Minoru Kitani. However, in the book, some elements of this match are fictionalized, such as the time at which the Master died and the names of the characters. The book is from the perspective of Kawabata, and he draws on memory to fill in the events of this historic match.

The book describes almost every move made in the match in exquisite detail, describing the clack of the stones on the board, as well as the struggle that the players went through in order to complete the match. This Go match was an unprecedented length, being played over six months and lasting upwards of fifty-five hours. The strategy of each of the placements are described in detail, and the intricacies of Go are not too opaque for the beginner. Kawabata clearly has a deep understanding of the game that most of us are not likely to attain.

Overall, I found this book to be very enjoyable and eye-opening, especially to the severity of a game that many westerners would consider almost trivial. I would recommend this book to my friends, especially if they were fans of deep thinking and strategy.

Finally finished reading The House of Hadesby the one and only Rick Riordan. Definitely worth the $25.00 (or around that amount). After a whole year, it feels pretty good to step back into the world of demigods, monster slaying, sword fighting, and other dangerous (but not necessarily lethal) activities. In fact, it feels amazing, exhilarating. Honestly, im quite surprised that it took me almost a week to finish this book. I mean, sure I want the book to last as long as possible (as they only come out yearly; the next book being the final one), but the last time I tried to "strech out"a Heroes of Olympus book to last a bit longer, it was 2 & 1/2 days.

The truth is, these books are truly fantastic, with great ideas and themes behind them, and the same is the absolute truth for this book as well. The plot is riveting, the action scenes fast-paced, with danger and treats lurking around every (page) corner. The fight scenes are intense, all-or-nothing type of ordeals, with characters almost always facing suicidal odds. The characters are loveable and exquisitely emotional, but these emotions can sometimes be repetitive and predictable.

....Which brings us to the books downsides. Though the book is filled with fast-paced, hair-raising, teeth-chattering experiences, I (personally) cannot help but feel that the plot of the series, as a whole, is becoming a bit predictable. It's almost identical to the first Rick Riordan series featuring Percy Jackson, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, in which the Titans must be stopped at all costs, or the world will change as we know it. With the Heroes of Olympus, the stakes are nothing but higher: all creation will be destroyed unless Gaea can be thwarted from waking. All the books in both series start off with a Quest, a challenge or problem that needs to solved. All the books closely follow the hero's journey, with a clear road of trials, which takes up most of the book. The only thing that changes from book to book are the plots and different challenges, which, I feel, is the primary driving force for these novels. Sometimes it feels as is Riordan is grasping at straws. Every so often he introduces characters who will quickly solve a problem (sometimes in return for some "trivial" task) and speed the heroes on their way. Periodically, characters are quickly introduced, and almost as quickly, disappear into the pages of the novel, never to be heard from again (though sometimes, he re-introduces them in later books).

Also, at times, it feels like some characters are actually ignored during this book, something I have never really felt or noticed in any other of his books. Indeed, I'm pretty sure the Heroes of Olympus series has one of the largest casts of characters found in any book, with 7 main protagonists and dozens of other supporting cast(both friend and foe). While this can be confusing, Riordan has undertaken this assignment and it is his JOB to provide the reader with the fullest immersion that he can, and that, for me at least, means incorporating all the characters. (Don't get me wrong Rick, your awesome and everything)
Often while Leo and Hazel are talking to one another (or something like that), you might actually forget (if not for brief amount of time) that, "Hey! where's Nico?" and "isn't Frank right there?!"

But enough criticism: I'd rate this book around 4 to 4& 1/2 stars, fully worth it's price tag (not only that, but you get a free map of Tatarus so you can tour when you visit! :>) The plot supports most of the elements of the story, the novel is witty, funny and detailed, the action scenes constant and great, and uses a lot of sensory description, making this book one of the best Riordan has ever written for this series. The worst downside of all however, is that it is a whole year before the next book comes out.



RIORDAN. Y U NO WRITE FASTER. QwQ

5 out of 5

I have just finished the book "Beauty and Sadness", by Yasunari Kawabata. As with his last book that I reviewed, Kawabata is master of the art of metaphor, and adds layer upon layer to what would be in the hands of a lesser writer quite a boring book. At the book's core is a message about human feeling, jealousy, and the violent, self destructive nature of love and revenge.

The book begins with a middle aged man visiting a lover from long ago. He learns that she has become a painter and has a young apprentice. Throughout this book, this young protegè transforms from a seemingly innocent young women to a scheming psychopath. Her jealousy of her master is extreme enough to make her want to commit any act, including murder. Kawabata masterfully deals with themes of revenge, love, and the human psyche. There are quite a few moments in this book that I have not seen replicated, where the human killer instinct is revealed in all it's horrifying detail. Not many authors can pull this off, but in the hands of Kawabata, The Japanese landscape comes to life in the vivid greens, blues, and reds of Otoko's paintings.

I would definitely recommend this book to a friend due to it's writing. Kawabata is one of the best writers I have had the pleasure to experience, and his sparse prose brings to mind the Haiku masters of old.

Night
5 out of 5 stars

I just finished the book Night by Elie Wiese and thought it was amazing. Night was a powerful, emotional book. I loved the fact that it actually happend and was told by a person whose life was affected. This book takes place during the Holicos when Jewish communities were being raided and taken to Concentration camps where they just worked, ate then were killed. Elie Wiesel documented the whole experience in such detail down to the first day he ever saw smoke coming up from the burning children. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to read a heart stopper book, filled with inside into a real person inside of concentration camp.

I just finished the book The Au Pairs Sun-Kissed by Melissa de la cruz. I personally would not recommend this book, it's not bad however it feels like someone who is not experiencing this is writing it. Like many of the things teenagers would "typically say or do" are expressed in the book and it doesn't feel completely relateable. In general the book wasn't awful the idea for the story i think was good- representing three different girls and their stories as the main characters and then having them all be friends. The problems each girl had also had their own interest and were relatable in their own way. The problem was that it was poorly executed, since there were so many storylines it never really got deep into any one, you didnt feel connected to the characters and since it was written in thrid person you felt even less like you were reading their story. I felt like it was missing more detail and personal moments it like only scratched the surface with everything cause there was so much going on.

The most memorable thing would probably be how Eliza grew from being spoiled kind of superficial and taking money for granted to learning what it was to work hard and be passionate about you do, she really learned how to earn what you have.

I probably wouldn't read other books from this author because I didn't like her writing style. It felt a lot like an old person trying to be a teenager, and just the characters and storyline needed to be developed more. Going off her writing style I don't think I'd enjoy reading any other books from her it's probably better for a younger audience.

I'd rate this book a 3/5
Sun-Kissed
This book is 306 pages.

The book that I read was called One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and I would recommend this to other people. I would recommend it because it gives you insight about how times have changed. The book was published in 1967 and obviously we have come a long way since then. It takes place in a mental hospital.

One of the most memorable part of the book is just overall how it narrated from the perspective of one of the mental patients inside. Chief Bromden or Chief Broom acts like he is deaf and dumb to the others. But what he actually he suffers from is hallucinations and paranoia. So is unusual state of mind is what makes the book such a page-turner. And since they all are convinced he is deaf and dumb that makes him susceptible to gossip around, and some secret staff information, making him one of the most reliable characters in the whole book.

But in a sense I would not read other books by this author. This book is pretty captivating but it is a bit confusing and a tiny bit disorganized. The author sometimes is unnecessarily over describing situations causing some parts to be tedious. But overall it is good.
4/5 stars

The Unauthorized History of DX.
5/5 Stars
The book i read was called The Unauthorized History of DX by Aaron Feigenbaum, Triple H, Shawn Michaels. I enjoyed reading this book. It had a lot of interviews with the stars themselves. The vast majority of this book features Shawn Michaels and Triple H having a conversation with each other while informing the reader all about the history of the group. These conversations are in a humorous tone, similar to their pre-match introductions and their backstage skits. The book also has interviews of shawn michaels and triple h, and what they say makes you burst out laughing.

I would read more books by Aaron because the format of the book was well organized. And the tone showed full display throughout the whole book.

Thousand Cranes
4 out of 5

I have recently finished the book "Thousand Cranes", by Yasunari Kawabata. This is the third of his books that I have read, and my least favorite of them. I believe that the story of this book was slightly less contained than the previous two, and did not flow as nicely. I also thought that the characters in this book were not as well formed as in the others.

This book centers on the trials of a young man named Kikuji, who is an orphan. He lives alone, with his father's maid and his neighbors for company. The book begins with Kikuji's maid arranging a marriage for him. However, no one else is aware of the betrothal plan, and, as such, it does not work out. Kikuji then undergoes many hard times, with his beloved neighbor committing suicide and his friends forsaking him. The book centers on the Japanese tea ceremony, and the beauty and order that comes with it.

I believe that Kawabata succeeds greatly in describing the importance of the tea ceremony, but is less successful in trying to convey the feelings of characters affected by the modernization and loss of traditionalism in Japan.

I would recommend this book to a friend, as I would with all Kawabata books. He is a masterful writer, who deserves much more attention in the West.

Fake Me a Match
5 out of 5
I would recommend this book because it is a very good book and their is so much going on that I could not stop reading it. Their were so many problems in the book. The problems in the book taught you many lessons. Always listen to your parents if they tell you not to do something do not do it. It also showed how peer pressure can effect you in a big way. I would recommend this book to children going into middle school.
The most memorable part of the book was when Avery changed the match making results for Blake.
I would read other books by this author because I enjoyed reading fake me a match. It was the best book I have read in a long time. It did not get me bored like most books do. I end up going to sleep when the books get boring. This one kept me awake.

NERDS: National Espionage, Rescue, and Defense Society
#Pages:316

I would recommend this book because it a fantasy come true. what do i mean by that? I mean that it a world were fantasy and reality meet. For example, i know that in one point in your life.While in class you imagine that out of the blue that you were a hero,or spy. Well that is the same thing, just written out.
What makes this book differ from all those spy book,well the characters like Braceface, a ex bully, football player. There also the wierd point of view told through an ex spy of N.E.R.D.S, and an even crazy storyline.
To really get you hook hears a quick summary jackson a form jock, who was reject by his former friends because of his new image, becoming the very thing he was taught to hate a nerd. AS a result Jackson took up spying which lead him into a new world, underneath his school full of spies. Jacvkson now have a choices to accept his new role as a nerd or deny it, and his true calling.
I would recommend this book to a friend,and rate this a 4 out of 5.

The Witch of Blackbird Pond

Katherine Tyler, our heroine, tail begins cause of her grandfather death, so she sells off his giant home in Barbados and sets sail to find her only remaining family in Connecticut colony. When Katherine get to Wethersfield it a dull, strict place. The only place she can be free is in the meadows, where she meets an old woman name The Witch of Blackbird Pond. As the story progress Kit begins sneaking away to find her own happiness, disobeying her uncle Matthew wood orders, which leads to real danger begins.
i love this book it leaves your mouth dropping with every page so i gave it a 4/5.

The book I just read was Lord Loss by Darren Shan. The book has large parts of gore, like the main character finding his family dismembered, so its not for some people. It does, however talk a lot about chess, because its how you fight against Lord Loss. so if you think chess and gore go hand in hand, this book is for you. The most memorable part for me was the final battle between Lord Loss and two of his minions, and the protagonist and his uncle. They sort of have an extreme chess game while also battling to the death. It first starts with Grubbs, the protagonist fighting the minions, but being overwhelmed. He then switches with his uncle so he doesn't die. However, fighting Lord Loss in chess is a whole other battle. Lord Loss is part of a series, and I have already read the second one. The second one had a new cast of characters except Lord Loss and the uncle when he was younger, so I guess its a prequel to the first book. It didn't have large parts of the story being about chess, which I liked. I would rate the book three stars out of five, I'm not really interested in chess, but did like the gore. That's why I liked the second book, much more gore. Wow, it seems creepy when I only talk of liking gore, I swear I'm not a psycho, really... Also, this post is my second one because the first time I did it, it got deleted before it saved. FML (╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻

The Sea of Monsters by Rick Riordan
5 out of 5

I would definitely recommend this book to my peers. I would recommend this book because it has a great plot that incorporates different conflicts that Percy Jackson has to conquer. Its the second book in the olympians series.

The most memorable part of the book is probably the end. It sets the conflict for the next book in the series. When another half-blood is brought back to life by the Golden Fleece. Its Thalia, who was the magical border of the camp.

I would definitely read other books by this author. This is the second book that Ive read by Rick Riordan. I enjoy his details, it makes you feel like your apart of the scene and gives you a good visual image of the setting and the characters. I also love greek mythology, which he incorporates in modern times which is genius.

Read War of the Werelords by Curtis Jobling( they guy who designed Bob the Builder >_>). First off, this series, Wereworld (even with a sorta corny name)is spectacular, especially for those who love a lot of action, suspense, and fantasy. This is not a romance-ish novel like Twilight: this is high-end Fantasy. Wereworld takes place in a fictional universe where aristocrats are also Were-animals, making them stronger, faster, heal more quickly, are harder to kill etc. etc, than their human counterparts (what's also interesting is that silver does greater damage t them than ordinary weapons).
Anyway, the series follows the path of Drew Ferran, the secret son of King Wergear the Wolflord on his quests to free Lyssia from a tyrannical king. Now this may sound like one of those typical stories with an oh-so-evil empire and a fledgling resistance that can barley sustain itself, but Jobling takes the fight to a whole new level. There are hundreds of plot twists, countless characters which he isn't afraid to kill off, and best (or worst) of all, the end of each and every book seems to put the protagonists in an even worse situation then they started out in.

I have a lot to say about this book. The plot is incredibly compelling and captivating. The characters are well made and believable (especially the villains), and the plot contains tons of gore-filled action scenes, so much that this could have been a horror novel series if the author had wanted it to be. The fight scenes are nothing like I've ever experienced-intense to the fullest, epic to the last, surpassing even the action scenes of the Percy Jackson series. The book alternates between several main characters, but it is still clear that drew is the main-MAIN character. Also, I didn't expect any romance after the first book, but it was a pleasant surprise for me when Jobling eventually slipped some of it in.
However, Drew's emotions can be quite predictable. He is a typical chivalrous character: He's loyal to those he loves, his friends, he's selfless, etc. Sometimes I feel as if there are too many characters.
oO****SPOILERS START HERE****Oo
But the main bones I have to pick with this book are during the ending. For me, the ending seemed rushed, hasty, and honestly, left a bad aftertaste in my mind (if that's even possible). There were so many final confrontations; the final fight scenes got confusing at times, and the perspective-switches between characters did nothing to help at all. During these final confrontations, many of the main supporting cast are wiped out, killed like flies on a hot summer day. The love of Drew's life is even killed, when she gets backhanded across a huge room during (one of) the final fight(s). This was COMPLETELY unexpected, utterly random, and was all in all a very bad decision-one that makes you want to yell "BULLSHIT!" at the top of your lungs and face-plant through the floor. One of my personal favorite characters, Count Vega, (think Jack Sparrow but a lot better) gets back-stabbed (and dies) by a lovesick warrior named Djogo towards the final pages of the book. Man, I must have been facepalming so hard, my hand must have gone through my damn head.
And the very end,--"the nation is still recovering from the massive war"/the Aftermath chapter, which I'm assuming was supposed to come across as "the good guys are victorious, but are still mopping up resistance and rebuilding", (sort of like the final epilogues for Mass Effect 3 or Star wars VI)came off really REALLY badly. It seemed like there were WAYYYYY too many challenges and obstacles left for the series to reach it's final conclusion: an infectious breed of half human-half werewolf are still running amok, the war still rages in Bast (the invader's own continent), The city of Icegarden is still infested with the Undead, the Rat Lord, Vanmorten, is still on the loose, the self-appointed Sheriff Muler has restarted the thieves guild in the Capital city, and Count Vega's murderers are still on the run.
Oh yes, and Drew, heartbroken, has abdicated the throne, (Lyssia is now ruled by a council of Humans) and now serves in the Woodland Watch, a group of elite rangers who patrol the forest, save lives, that sort of stuff, etc. This was SO UNSATISFYING for after all that has happened to Drew and his friends, for it to end like THIS? Really. REALLY?! Just wow...*deep breaths..alright deep breaths* The ending nearly pulled down this whole book, and was certainly not the ending I had expected--or hoped for this amazing and fantastic series. Honestly, there is so much detail and information contained within the latter half of this book, I feel that the series should have been stretched out another novel. But maybe that's just me. Who knows, maybe someday we'll even see a sequel series. I hope so, I'm not ready to leave the realm of Lyssia just yet.
[Final rating: *** out of ***** (3/5 stars)]

The book i have finished reading was Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Harry has finally come of age, and finally started on his final journey to defeat Voldemort for good.It’s not easy. Harry is plagued with rumors of Dumbledore’s past, and begins to wonder if the Headmaster he so long revered might have had a much darker past than he ever let on. The three are frequently without food, and with winter coming their journey is no day at the beach. Because of their lack of plan, lack of food, and lack of progress, their spirits are often low, and Ron especially becomes argumentative. One night he and Harry get into an epic fight and Ron leaves to go back home.His last act of heroism, however, saves his life. He meets Dumbledore again in death, and Dumbledore answers many of his questions. He is given a choice to stay or to go back, and he chooses to go back and fight.
It’s all over between Harry and Voldemort with just one spell. Harry is left alive, the true master of the Hallows, and Voldemort is killed for good. He now understands more than he ever has about love, and life, and sacrifice, and in spite of the loss of many of his friends during the last battle, is grateful for the second chance he’s been given at life, and love.
I rate this book 4/5 stars

Better Nate Than Ever
4 out of 5 stars
1. I would recommend this book because it is very interesting and very entertaining. As I was reading the book I felt as if I were in the book going on the adventures with the main character Nate. It was so amazing reading about Nate go to NYC. I would recommend this book for someone who has a dream and is trying to achieve their dream. This book showed how his family supported his dream. In the beginning of the book Nate was sitting at home in Jankburg,Pennsylvania with his friend Libby; Dreaming of being at the audition next thing you know he is at the audition in NYC.
2. The most memorable part about the book was when Nate goes to the audition in NYC. This part of the book shows how bad he wanted to be in the Broadway show. When he gets kick out of the audition because he needed a parent, he does not quit. He decides to come back with his aunt Heidi.
3. I would read books by this author because the book was very interesting. Books like these are what keep me reading and what make me love reading. They make me feel like I am with the character in the book. This book was AWESOME. At first as I started the book the first 20 pages were boring. I would recommend this book to any age. READ IT YOU WILL LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The House of Hades by Rick Riordan
I would recommend this book to anyone who has read the Percy Jackson series (the original 5). Plus you have to read the 3 books in the sequel series to get to this one. But overall I think it was an amazing book. There was even this one part that made me cry in the middle of class. That was the most memorable part of the book, it was so touching. I hope to see that event actually happen later in the series and be sorted out. Now I'm crying because i remembered what happened. *sniff* WAHHHHHHHHH. AHHHHHH. EEEEEH. I love Rick Riordan's way of writing and humor and I would read more books by him. The whole series gets really intense and I finished this book in a few days. The downside is that now I have to wait till fall 2014 for the next one to come out( Lazy writer). However I do expect that the next one will be as good as the last. I hope to find some more books by Rick Riordan and have them be as entertaining as all the books I have read by him. The book was one of my favorites and hopefully he makes the series very long. That way there will be many more books and the story won't end anytime soon. I hope anyone who reads it will love it as much as I hath done. *****

Allegiant by Veronica Roth
This book is the third book in the Divergent series. It's about a society within a fence that has factions. Dauntless (Brave), Candor (Honest), Abnegation (Selfless), Erudite (Smart), Amity (Peace). The whole system is complicated but at a certain age (16) every child chooses what faction to continue with. They live with their parents in whatever faction they were born into at first though. For example, the main character in the book was born into Abnegation but chose Dauntless (It's kinda a big deal but you must read the books to understand). The most memorable part is when she chooses her faction. I would highly recommend this series to anyone as long as you start at the first one. I would love to find some more books by this author. The one I am reading now is about how there was a rebellion in the city and how some people (including the main) characters escape out of the fence and find out that the city was one of many experiments that people outside were using too attempt to fix damaged genes in society. These people outside told the characters about a war that occurred and why everything was so barren. They find out that their city was once called "Chicago". They also learn that they are in what is called the "United States". However there is a possibility of another rebellion occurring. Otherwise though it is a great book and I recommend it to anyone. *****

The book I was reading was Banquet of the Golden Witchby07th Expansion
I give this book a 5 out of 5

I would definitely recommend this book to people. Preferably people from 15-20 years old. The book is very graphic, and violent, but the story is gold. I guess you could call it... a golden slaughter. (Book Joke)

The most memorable thing about my book was, the way they explained things. They were able to make you see the brutality, they were able to make you hear Beatrice's chilling laugh. The book also shows how far people would go for the one they love, or what they would sacrifice. One part of the book that stuck with me till this very day is, the part where Maria was killed by the former Beatrice. Maria was crying to the former Beatrice, wondering why the former Beatrice broke her promise of letting Maria into the golden land. All she said was sorry, and choked her to death with her magic, to avoid a brutal death from the current Beatrice. It was memorable because, it made me think about happy endings, and promises and, how they won't always be kept or happen.

I would definitely read more from this author. He creates very interesting scenarios, characters, etc. The author also includes many plot twist through out his story, so things never get boring. The author also includes background information for almost every character in the book. He also makes every character important one way or another.

*****

I am reading "Bag of Bones", written by Stephen King, but I will not be talking about that book in this review because I have not finish it just yet so you will be hearing a review on the book I've previously read before which I didn't type a review about.
The book that I read is called "My Bloody Life: The Making of a Latin King" written by Reymundo Sanchez. I would rate this book as 4 out of 5 stars because it gives a realistic view of urban lifestyle and also it tells the hardships of growing up in 1970's and 1980's Chicago.

Reymundo Sanchez, the author of the book, tells his story, as a boy he was disowned by his mother and stepfather (biological father died)who was physically and emotionally abusive towards him. He eventually moves in with his stepbrother in Chicago, Reymundo is initiated in the cruel lifestyle of gangs in Chicago specifically the Latin Kings( he was a member of a few other gangs). He gains popularity by making hits and is also given a nickname "Lil Loco". Reymundo realizes that being in a gang is not easy,depending on who he associated with he was either valued or disfavored which didn't help him much because it would cause troubles especially between rival gang members. He spends several years in the gang but then realizes something. Did he make a good choice or not in joining a gang?

I think one of the most memorable parts in the book were the pages in the book which talks about the abuse he had to undergo by the hands of his stepfather and mother. It's a real eye-opener because it seems like Reymundo didn't feel loved at home and that's why he turned to the gang lifestyle for escape. He had sisters who were never abused or threatened or even knew what it was like to feel fear all the time. What really struck me was this quote from the book, "The first thing he told me when he came home was that I was lucky he didn't kill me"(the stepfather had come home after a confrontation with Reymundo).
What I learned from this was that you never know what goes on with a person in their personal lives. They could look like the most cheerful person, always with a smile on their face, but that could just be makeup to cover up flaws that are hidden in the inside of their mind.

Japanese; Aesthetics and Culture: A Reader
4 out of 5

I have recently read "Japanese Aesthetics and Culture", edited by Nancy G. Hume. This is an anthology of many essays written on the subject of the aesthetic sense of the Japanese nation as a whole, including ancient and modern Japan. The essays cover a wide range of topics, from the traditional sword, tea, and flower arts of the people, to the haiku poems, to the famous suicide of Mishima Yukio.

I found that the most interesting essays in this book were written by a man named Donald Keene. He clearly knows what he is talking about, and his essay on Mishima in connection with Kendo, tea ceremonies, and ikebana (flower arrangement) were very interesting and informative. I also loved his essay on the topic of "Feminine Sensibility in the Heian Era". This essay did a very good job explaining the living conditions of women in the early Japanese periods, and his analyzation of poetry, along with his translations, helped the mind to visualize the feelings involved with extreme clarity. Despite these positive feelings, however, I largely found the book a bit dry, but i suppose that this is my own fault for reading a book with such a large base topic.

This book does a very good job at what it tries to do. My own opinion is irrelevant, as it says on the back that the book is meant to go along with a class on the same subject. Having only an interest in East Asian cultures, it is expected that some parts of this book would be monotonous for me.

I would recommend this to a friend. The person who read this book would have to be good with reading and interpreting ambiguous analogies and meanings. However, if you can understand this, it would be highly rewarding and would teach you a lot.

5 out of 5

I finished reading a book called Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins. This book is about a Teenage girl named Katniss Everdeen who has just won the Hunger Games and is living as you would say " the good life " in my book. Anyways the setting sets in a place called Panaem which would be like American but in the future. Katniss is then put back into the Hunger Games where again she fights to the death with other competitors that have also won the other Hunger Games. Then in the ending they escape the arena by shooting down the force field and they escape. The most memorable thing about the book is when Katniss actually took that step in revolution and fought with the capitol. I would read other books by this author. Actually i am going to read the third installment so I can see how the series ends. Catching Fire

5 out of 5
My book was The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan and I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys fiction. This book is very entertaining and has many different things going on in the book to keep your attention. It begins with a story about a kid who doesn't fit in and turns out to be a half-blood meaning half god. He finds his way to camp half-blood where he befriends Annabeth and his best friend Grover. They go on a quest and from that moment until the end the book keeps you interested and intrigued. It makes you want to keep reading because the story has a lot of situations and problems happening but they all flow nicely and connect to the main plot. I think the most memorable part of this book is the end. I don't want to spoil it but there's a betrayal you find out about that you don't expect. It's interesting to see how Percy reacts to it. The best part is in the end they realize it's not over yet they know right now all they can do is relax and enjoy these moments. They decide to deal with the rest another time, and that's the second book. I would definitely read other books from this author. I'm already reading the second book to this series and so far I also really like it, his writing is very good. Everything seems to be well planned out and it never gets boring. If you've like reading series about fictional worlds with a lot of adventure then you would definitely enjoy this book!

this book is 375 pages.

Finished reading Goliath by Scott Westerfeld, which is the third and final book of the Leviathan Trilogy, effectively concluding the series. For me, this book didn't capture the same mood and feel the previous two books had. It had great dialogue and plot/storyline and vivid imagery, which was greatly enhanced by Kieth Thompson's amazing black & white drawings.
But the bone I have to pick with this book is the ending. To me, it seemed like Westerfeld wanted a quick and speedy end to the story, and wrapped it up in a short chapter and a small epilogue. XX~SPOILERS~XX
Within this chapter, Alek's men decide to stay behind in America, the land of opportunity, and Alek himself renounces his claim to the throne, following his feelings and expressing his love for Deryn. But World War One is still in progress, and with the US thrown into the mix of squabbling countries, it seems the war will end soon. This was not as nearly as satisfying as the ending I had hoped for, instead it seemed a bit anticlimactic. I feel like so much more could have been added to the ending, such as the Axis powers surrendering in fear of Nikola Tesla's giant superweapon (which doesn't really work at all).
However, all things considered, it was an enjoyable read, and I highly recommended this book and series to anyone who like Steampunk, fantasy, Alternate history, that sorta stuff. 3.5/5 stars.

I finished reading Romeo and Juliet a couple of weeks ago. I give this book a 5/5. I would recommend this book who loves a good romantic classic. The story's main conflict is that the Capulets and Montague houses are in a huge feud. At a dance that the Capulets were hosting Romeo and friends went even though they weren't suppose to. As soon as Romeo and Juliet locked eyes there they were instantly in love. But because of the feud of course when they found out the identity of the other, it instantly became a forbidden love. After sneaking around Juliet's parents found out and banished Romeo from the land. At the end they have a plan to be together... but you have to read to find out!
If you are into reading romantic tragedies I highly recommend this book.

I finished the titans curse by rick riordan. I give it a 5 out of 5. I would definitely recommend this book to my peers. I would recommend it because it's a series books. This is the third book in the series, and it is all connected. The book has amazing detail, and an engaging plot. The author is very descriptive, he gives you a visual of each scene with great detail. The book is like the others, has the same setting, and the same characters. Their is this constant antagonist, that always challenges the protagonist, percy jackson. The most memorable thing about the book is the fight scenes. Like I said, the author has great detail in the scene, but the one last fight scene was amazingly descriptor. The author descriped every swing, slash, punch, attack that was thrown by the characters. I felt like I was there, even though I love every greek mythology book. That's the only thing that could grab my attention, thats why history is my favorite class. I definitely would read other books by this author. I don't have all of the books in the percy jackson series, but I want the last two. The demigod files and the last olympian.

Danny the Champion of the World byRoald Dahl
This book was a great book and like all of Roald Dahl's books I love it. This book is about a boy named Danny and his father. Danny's mother passed away when he was 4 months old, leaving Danny's father to take care of him. Danny's father, William, owns a small gas station, or as they call it in the book: "Fill Station". He also runs a small car repair shop. They live in a old, small Gypsy caravan caravan compartment where there are two beds, a small kerosene stove burner, and an oil lamp. The story is mostly about Danny and his father and how one of a kind he is. But later emerges a master plot where they try to sabotage Mr. Victor Hazell's (a very rich and mean man who owns most of the land) pheasant shooting party to which many other rich, mean people attend. They pull it off in the end but later the plan backfires slightly, only slightly. I won't say so I don't ruin it for anyone but they still "win" I guess you could say. Anyway it's a great book, I recommend it to everyone and I hope others like it as much as I did.

***** stars

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
I would recommend this book because it is very interesting. Katniss is a very strong and caring person.It is a very good book that will keep you reading and will keep you curious of what will happen next in the book. The most memorable part about the book was when Katniss volunteered as tribute for her sister Prim. That showed how much she cared about her sister. Another memorable moment was when Katniss pretend to eat the berries so her and Peeta could survive. I would read another book by this author because the book was very good and interesting. I could not put the book down. I would rate this book a 5 out of 5.