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ASIN : 0142407577
Sales Rank : 3325
Studio : Puffin
Binding : Paperback
EAN : 9780142407578
ISBN : 0142407577
Number Of Pages : 240
Publication Date : December 01, 2007
Release Date : December 01, 2007
Publisher : Puffin
Manufacturer : Puffin
Availability : Usually ships in 24 hours
Label : Puffin
Author: Mike Lupica
| Michael Arroyo has a pitching arm that throws serious heat. But his firepower is nothing compared to the heat Michael faces in his day-to-day life. Newly orphaned after his father led the family's escape from Cuba, Michael's only family is his seventeen-yearold brother Carlos. If Social Services hears of their situation, they will be separated in the foster-care system—or worse, sent back to Cuba. Together, the boys carry on alone, dodging bills and anyone who asks too many questions. But then someone wonders how a twelve-year-old boy could possibly throw with as much power as Michael Arroyo throws. With no way to prove his age, no birth certificate, and no parent to fight for his cause, Michael's secret world is blown wide open, and he discovers that family can come from the most unexpected sources.
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December 17, 2007.
Disappointed.
Rating: 2
I was very disappointed with the book because of the brevity of the story. It's as though you begin to read the story and then its over!
The illustrations are very nice but I bought this for my great niece who is blind and so she cannot enjoy the pictures.
Again, I was very disappointed.
December 27, 2007.
Perfect for age 2.
Rating: 5
Lots of pictures, few words, and little person's issues give this book strong appeal to be the one picked by the child to be read.
December 19, 2007.
A few words are enough.
Rating: 5
There's a scarcity of text in this book, and that's all it needs. The message is simple, and Henkes reflects that in his words and illustrations. As usual, his drawings are fantastic, conveying perfectly the message contained in the words - to be honest, this book could stand on its own with no text.
This one is a pleasure both for me and my 2-year-old daughter. She loves having me read it, and I enjoy it. Kevin Henkes has a magic touch, and it's on display again here.
December 19, 2007.
Cute book with beautiful illustrations....
Rating: 4
This is a simple book with beautiful and simple illustrations. Instant hit with my two year old, its wonderful.
December 02, 2007.
Even the Smallest Can Have a Good Day.
Rating: 5
Suffering problems, several small animals are having a bad day. Quiet events resolve their problems, but a little girl running to her mother is what changes the whole tenor of the day.
With a palette of browns, mostly muted, the flowing broad lines of the illustrations have the simplicity of woodcuts. The artist is a master of conveying emotions with small strokes. A short curved line can indicate either a smile or a worried eyebrow on an animal. On opposing pages the depictedcharming characters have their misadventures explained in large, soft brown letters on off-white pages. The easy-to-understand text, simple illustrations, and gentle tension of the book will capture
the interest of, but not threaten, toddlers. Such excellence of art and text for very young children is the work of a master.
December 20, 2007.
Truly Moving.
Rating: 5
This book made my heart go out to all young ladies who have been raped. Reading this book helped me understand a little better the reasons and thought processes behind why it's so hard for them to speak about what happened to them. Speak is essential reading for more than just young people; we can all be moved by this book.
December 13, 2007.
Yes..
Rating: 5
One of my students was reading this in class and I asked her about it. She wouldn't rest until I'd read it. I'm glad I did. I read a lot of work that is directed toward high school aged teens and is supposed to reflect their experiences, but often doesn't. This book is exactly on the mark. A good engaging read for both teens and adults, and definitely one teachers can recommend to students.
December 04, 2007.
My Lips Are Not Sealed in Regards to This Book.
Rating: 5
I bought this book and finished it in three days. I couldn't put it down. Did the author go to MY high school?! She totally has the high school life pinned. This book addresses a very sensitive topic that should be discussed more openly with young adults, for doing so may protect our youth in ways that remaining silent and blindly hopeful fails us. I will for sure save this book for my own children to read some day. Powerful, emotional, witty and hip. Like many reviews state, this is a "must read" that I would love to see on the required reading list one day in high school.
December 30, 2007.
Good Read.
Rating: 4
I bought this book for my daughter to read in the future, as she is a bit young now. Though being an avid reader, I had to buy. I loved how Ms. Halse made the connection between Maya Angelou's personal experience and the protagonist, who finally braves up to "speak." Initially, I wanted to put the book down because I thought it was a little choppy from the writing style but it fell in line with not only the character, but with the thought patterns of young adults. Reflecting on my own years in high school, this is the kind of girl you sit beside in class, where those around them are unable to discern the root of their so-called strangeness. It is good to hear relevant issues being addressed in young adult fiction because Halse has certainly addressed the time we are living. Thank you, Ms Halse.
December 18, 2007.
Speak-in volumes.
Rating: 5
Speak is a story that deals with adolescent themes, particularly rape, with sensitivity, empathy, and understanding. It is difficult to believe that the author is not in high school herself because of the way she accurately voices the sometimes painful world of adolescence through the character of Melinda. Melinda's issues with ther friends, her isolation, and even her bitingly sarcastic outlook on life makes her a believable character. We as readers realize that Melinda is also in crisis and because of Anderson's skillful writing, we genuinely care for her and root for her success. The tree that Melinda struggles to shape in art class becomes a powerful metaphor of her transformation from emotional "death" back to "life." My only critique is that in the aftermath of her confrontation with her attacker, a conversation/moment between Melinda and at least one of her parents, whom she struggled with throughout the novel, could have been featured and brought further resolution. However, that not withstanding, Speak is a book that should be required high school reading to initiate healthy dialogue about subjects that are too often ignored. It is a testament to hope, healing, and personal salvation for victims of rape that should be celebrated. I highly recommend this book for adolescents and for any adult who would like to see an unflinchingly honest glimpse into their world.
December 27, 2007.
OMG.
Rating: 5
OMG i love these books, they are like the best ever!!! the girls are like total female dogs but there clothes are ah-mazing!
December 04, 2007.
Okay, enough already! .
Rating: 2
The Clique series debuted as a scathing book that looked into the lives of rich pre-teens who seemed to have it all. In the previous Clique Books Massie was an interesting character. Although she seemed so put together on the outside, the readers saw some of her insecurities that led her to desperately do some of the nasty actions that she did to others. Massie wasn't a one demensional character, and she seemed to genuinely care about Claire as a friend. But ever since the book Dial L for Loser, Massie's treatment of Claire is pretty sadistic, even for the most catty of girls. The petty mind games are cruel, yet Claire still endures the treatment of her 'friends' The Claire bashing from the past book and this one has turned off a lot of readers, and it's time for certain characters to get a backbone.
December 02, 2007.
Good book for teens..
Rating: 5
This book is a good book for all teens but especially for teens that suffer with the whole clique's in school type thing. Highly recommended!
December 01, 2007.
the Pretty Committee.
Rating: 4
As the years march on, one constant changes in such a fractionally small way as to be imperceptible from one decade to the next: junior high drama. No matter where you are in the country (perhaps the world), the years between ages 12 and 15 are mentally draining for both teenagers and their parents.
The Clique series by Lisi Harrison has always done a fine job of painting the reality of the daily situations encountered by wealthy 12-year-old Massie Block and her group of friends, better known as the Pretty Committee. Harrison's most recent book in the series, IT'S NOT EASY BEING MEAN, keeps up the breakneck gossip-driven pace of Massie and her friends --- Alicia Rivera, Kristen Gregory, Dylan Marvil and the slightly out-of-place Claire Lyons, the newest addition to the Pretty Committee.
As the Pretty Committee prepares for their exit from seventh grade at upscale private school Octavian Country Day (OCD...I'm sure there's hidden meaning there), they encounter the opportunity of a teenage girl's lifetime --- the chance to gain access to "paradise." In this case, paradise is a mythical secret room that only a select group of eighth graders is allowed to know about, let alone enter. Finding the key and gaining entrance to the room pose a series of humorous and well-crafted problems for the spoiled young girls.
While some readers, both young and old, may find the characters in IT'S NOT EASY BEING MEAN artificial and impossibly too mature for their age, it's entirely plausible to imagine their vocal styling and fashion sense to be appropriate for daughters of families whose income puts them firmly in the upper extremes of the economic bell curve. Do seventh grade girls really wear Prada and Gucci while texting on Razr phones and saying things like "ah-dorable" and "ah-mazing"? The answer is a resounding "Ohmygawd, Duh!"
IT'S NOT EASY BEING MEAN will never hold the interest of boys or even girls who have left the hallowed halls of junior high behind on their quest for the even more delicate and debilitating cliques they will experience in high school. But for girls preparing to leave the world of elementary school or currently experiencing the daily chaos of hormones gone awry (aka junior high), the Clique series offers good, safe fun.
Careful thought during the reading should reveal the messages that lie beneath the obvious tales presented in these books, for indeed there is much to be learned about how to lead an exciting life in junior high while avoiding the pitfalls of trying to fit in everywhere with everyone on a daily basis.
--- Reviewed by Simon King
December 01, 2007.
ariel likes this book. cool, iknow. =].
Rating: 4
Eighth grade is just around the corner in It's Not East Being Mean by Lisi Harrison, which is why the eight grade alpha Skye Hamilton has announced that she is passing on the key to the "secret room" at OCD. She decides to break the tradition and chooses five groups of seventh graders to compete for the key. The contest is tricky, requiring the girls to find the key underneath a Briarwood Boys' bed. Massie and the girls are facing some tough competition and Massie claims the pretty committee HAS to get the key. Claire has been asked to star in another movie and has to miss a lot of the searches because she's off meeting with directors. Massie, Alicia and Dylan are forced to join the soccer team to learn more about school spirit and team effectiveness. This is the seventh book in the series, and by far the best. I recommend this book to anyone who likes drama. Lisi's writing style is very intriguing. Spending an exhausting amount of time planning the key search, scheming to get into the Briarwood boys' bedrooms, and dealing with Claire's movie business is causing Massie and the girls a lot of trouble. But the pretty committee is willing to find a way.
December 16, 2007.
The Sight : Why It's Just "Okay".
Rating: 3
The Sight was a good read and, as ususal, I couldn't put it down. But the book left more questions then answers. Why is Lionpaw so cocky? Why is Jaypaw depressed no matter what he does? Why is Spiderleg suddenly mean? Why is Ashfur suddenly old and kindly instead of young and foul towards Brambleclaw? Why is Hollypaw the only sane one around anymore?
The kits, Hollykit, Lionkit, and Jaykit (later Hollypaw, Lionpaw, and Jaypaw) aren't very exciting. In the beginning, when Hollypaw (!SPOILERS!) was going to be a medicine cat, it just ruined it for me. It completely replayed what happened in The New Prohecy with Leafpool, and how she became medicine cat. Luckily, Jaypaw became medicine cat apprentice and Hollypaw went to Brackenfur as her mentor. I was glad that we were finally seeing some male medicine cat apprentices. The only male medicine cat apprentices we have ever had were Jaypaw, Kestrelpaw (of WindClan, as of The Power of Three), and Littlecloud.
Lionpaw is too cocky and shows off constantly. He doesn't care if his brother is depressed or going to die. He is also in love with Heatherpaw of WindClan...sound familiar? That's because it is. There has been a forbidden love in every single series within the overall series. In the original series, there was Silverstream and Graystripe, RiverClan and ThunderClan. In the second series, there was Feathertail and Crowfeather, RiverClan and WindClan, Stormfur and Brook, RiverClan and Tribe of Rushing Water, and Leafpool and Crowfeather (AGAIN! This guy's got some commitment issues...), ThunderClan and WindClan. Now, in the third series, we have Mousepaw and Minnowpaw, ThunderClan and RiverClan (unoffical) and Lionpaw and Heatherpaw, ThunderClan and WindClan. The whole scenario is just too played out. And there'll probably be a relative of Tigerstar haunting someone's dreams. It has been confirmed that Jaypaw will be tempted by Hawkfrost and Tigerstar, again replayed The New Prohecy.
Hollypaw is the only sane one, and a great fighter at that. But they only focus on Jaypaw in The Sight, so I miss her. But, Dark River is supposed to show her powers more...thank God.
Jaypaw is depressed. First, he hates being blind, even though he can smell and hear better than anyone. When other cats talk to him as if he were useless, he should just yell at them and prove them wrong. But he doesn't for some stupid reason. Then, he hates Brightheart and Longtail even though they want to help him. Next on his hate list, he decides to be a medicine cat apprentice, and he decides that he hates Leafpool (which I understand), Littlecloud, Barkface, Kestrelpaw, Mothwing (which I also understand) and Willowpaw. He has serious issues.
I also don't like how they completely change some cat's personalities. Like Spiderleg for instance. In The New Prohecy, he was very nice and supportive. In The Sight, he yells at his Clanmates and critizes Brook and Stormfur. Ashfur also just drops his argument against Brambleclaw real suddenly, and he acts really old. Whitewing (what a predictable name!) also doubts Jaypaw and acts pretty useless. What a crime, since she was my favorite and only sane character!
Also, Vicky Holmes, Cherith Baldry, and Kate Cary kill off WAY too many cats. Goldenflower is suddenly dead, with no explanation, and Molepaw is killed. Rainwhisker, Sorreltail's only living sibling, is killed too!
The timing is way off! Certain warriors in different Clans that are just as old as Longtail (who is still young, remember, but had to retire very early) are already elders or dead! Breezepaw, a WindClan apprentice and the son of Nightcloud and Crowfeather (how many mates can this guy HAVE!?) would have had to be born in Sunset, but Crowfeather still loved Leafpool in Sunset. Also, Squirrelflight would have had to be pregnant through all of Sunset if her kits were to be apprenticed 6 moons later in The Sight.
The writers need to think of more creative names! I mean...WhiteWING? They only first used 'wing' with Mothwing, and since then they have been using it everywhere. I thought that her name should be something reminiscent of her friendly and sweet character, like Whitebreeze or Whitewillow (two last names that you never see, by the way). There are too many characters with bland last names like 'fur', 'tail', 'pelt', 'heart', 'wing, etc. They really need good names, like 'night', 'breeze', 'bird', 'shadow', 'horizon', 'whisper', 'flight', 'feather', 'stream', 'river', etc. I have so many names that would go so well with the characters. Some names, like Runningheart, need a bland last name that fits well with a long first name, like Nightengalerose, or Nightengalestar. Or Stallionburst. Twigtail, Poplarwhisper, Graymist, Finchspirit, Lichenstone, Swanfeather, Crystalpelt, Iciclestorm, Litheshadow, Frostybird, Sunsetwillow, Clayheart, Goosefeather, etc. (Those are all my names, don't steal them please.)
All in all, the book has good writing and the grammar mistakes are at a minimum. But, the plot is too predictable and it's getting tiring. If you love Warriors, you have to read it, otherwise you won't know what's going on, but don't expect much.
Sincerely,
~Dapplewing~
December 12, 2007.
Filled with the series's trademark omens, personality plays, heroic deeds, revelations and battles....
Rating: 5
Warriors fans worried that the conclusion of The New Prophecy may have spelled the end of the fascinating stories of these cat Clans. So we can all breathe a huge sigh of relief with the release of THE SIGHT, the first book in a new series called Power of Three.
A whole new generation of ThunderClan cats, particularly Brambleclaw and Squirrelflight's kittens --- Lionpaw, Hollypaw and Jaypaw --- mature. All around them, within their own Clan and between the Clans, politics stir the personalities. In addition, the ThunderClan leader, Firestar, has had a prophecy that disturbs him greatly: "There will be three, kin of your kin, who hold the power of the stars in their paws." Could those three be Lionpaw, Hollypaw and Jaypaw? Do they have a dark power? One thing is for sure: trouble is on the horizon.
In the first book, THE SIGHT, Jaypaw chafes under the challenges of his blindness, while asserting that he has gained such power in his other senses to be a good warrior. Hollypaw also struggles to find her way. She is apprenticed to Leafpool, the medicine cat. It's her true calling...or is it?
Filled with the series's trademark omens, personality plays, heroic deeds, revelations and battles, Warriors: Power of Three begins with a breathless bang that never lets up, giving fans the assurance that this will be a valuable new installment in the beloved Warriors saga.
--- Written by Terry Miller Shannon
December 07, 2007.
Thrilling book, yet....
Rating: 4
Yes, this book was great.
When me and my friend Pebblestream went to Barnes and Noble to get the The lost Warrior and this book while dressed up like cats(BIG mistake!!), I sat right down, opened the book, and Checked the Allegencices. I knew that there was going to be hollykit, Jaykit, and Lionkit,(STARCLAN DOES SPEAK TO ME!!!), but i was shocked to learn that Goldenflower died(I searched Secrets of the Clans 10 trillion times, but i couldn't find out how she died.), Rainwhisker died, and Molepaw died. I knew that Whitepaw and Birchpaw would become warriors(Who's with me when i say Whitepaw should have been a warrior in Twilight?), But whitewing and BIRCHFALL!!!(im in love with him!!)
Anyway, THis book was thrilling about Jaypaw's powers, but, everything else was old tactics. I mean, a dog attack? Haven't we seen enough? And nothing really happened untill the end. And they didn;t tell you who the traitor was who hawkfrost mentioned. *cough* ASHFUR!!!!!!!! *cough* My friend (Pebblestream) thinks its Jaypaw, But he wasn't alive when it happend.???.
-Cherryfur
P.S. I found some mistakes. They called Hawkfrost the riverclan deputy, Some confusion about Catmint or watermint about going to riverclan or windclan or something, 6 moons went by from sunset to this book and yes it takes 6 moons for kits to be an apprentice, but mustn't Squirrelflight be in the nursery while pregnant?? the same with Breezepaw, Jaypaw sayinghe remembered the white snowyness when he was born in a snowstorm outside the hollow but Jaykit is blind so he can't of remembered the WHITE snowyness, and the called Firestar Firestorm. How bad can they get???
P.S.S. Crowfeather+nightcloud=Breezepaw? he's CROWFEATHER. couldn't they think of Something more interesting???
December 03, 2007.
The Sight.
Rating: 5
I just read it, and I'm proud to say that it's definitely worth the read! In The Sight, the kits of Squirrelflight and Brambleclaw, Jaypaw, Hollypaw, and Lionpaw, are the narrators instead of Firestar. They all have a responsibility to play in order to save their Clan, and they each possess a special talent that will help them. The lives of Jaypaw, Lionpaw, and Hollypaw start a whole 'nother prophecy and the weight of the forest rests in their paws. While the Clans go about their daily routines, an unexpected warrior who the Clans thought was dead makes a surprise visit to ThunderClan with a kittypet. There are many twists and conflicts that make this book the most original of all of the Warriors Books ever.
All in all, this was an amazing book! I totally loved how there were so many new characters and the same old ones that we all loved. There is betrayal, enemies from the previous series, and so many old and new secrets to be revealed! To anyone who is a fan of the Warrior series, if you read this new book, I guarantee that you won't be disappointed.
December 29, 2007.
I Love this book!.
Rating: 5
I have read all the other Warriors Books and they are all great! This is my favorite series ever!
Books you really need to read:
Warriors #1 Into The Wild
Warriors #2 Fire and Ice
Warriors #3 Forest of Secrets
Warriors #4 Rising Storm
Warriors #5 Dangerous Path
Warriors #6 Darkest Hour
Warriors: The New Prophecy #1 Midnight
Warriors: The New Prophecy #2 Moonrise
Warriors: The New Prophecy #3 Dawn
Warriors: The New Prophecy #4 Starlight
Warriors: The New Prophecy #5 Twilight
Warriors: The New Prophecy #6 Sunset
Warriors: The Power Of Three #1 The Sight
Warriors: The Power Of Three #2 Dark River
Warriors: Super Edition Firestar's Quest
Warriors: Field Guide Secrets of the Clans
These are all wonderful books, even though some of them aren't even out yet. READ THEM! You don't have to be a cat lover to fall in love with this wonderful story.
December 20, 2007.
You won't want to put down this relaxing summer tale!.
Rating: 5
At first glance you probably will not see the plain cover of this book.
But with a good reader's further investigation, you will stumble across this refreshing tale. The Penderwicks is the kind of book that goes best with fresh air, and a glass of Iced Tea. A warm summer breeze, is this Books best friend.
The book is about 4 sisters who find themselves on the beautiful estate of Arundel for their summer. While exploring the great gardens, of this lush getaway, the girls meet Jeffrey. Jeffrey is a wonderful boy, who's mother, (the grouchy owner, Mrs. Tifton)is far far, from wonderful! The girls, quickly find themselves and Jeffrey are inseperable, the only problem is that Mrs. Tifton isn't as fond of the Penderwicks as him.
The book has everything. Comedy, action, and a slight tweek of romance.
You would really be missing out, if you ignored this superb story.
December 10, 2007.
Enjoyable Summer Read.
Rating: 4
Although it started out slowly for me, I found myself engaged in the story after a chapter or two. This was well-written and brought back vivid memories of my childhood adventures and also of Books I loved reading as a child. Sweet relationships written in a way that I could just picture the sisters and the scenes. Great plot. As a teacher, I'd recommend this to any reader or as a delightful read-aloud story to share.
December 07, 2007.
A good summertime read.
Rating: 4
A good summertime read.
As I'm lazing the days of summer away, The Penderwicks was a good book for the right time. It was a quick read about a family of girls on an extended vacation at a cottage in Massachusetts. It's good for reading with little expectation of intricate plot or suspense. Just a nice summer afternoon companion.
What I liked most about this book was the feeling that this had the language and the feel of an older book. The characters seemed likable especially Rosalind and Jane. The supporting characters had a bit of depth too. I would have liked to read more about Mr. Penderwick and his interest in botany as well as Churchie and her kitchen.
I didn't care for the fact that the Penderwick girls seemed to move around unsupervised. And this became very clear when the 4-year-old almost stepped into the path of an oncoming car (and this was after she'd already gotten saved from an earlier mess.) This was not my idea of the makings of summer vacation heaven.
The pros definitely outweigh the cons with this book. The writing is sublime and I appreciate the intent with which this book was written - harking back to a more innocent time. I especially liked that there was not an ounce of magic or fantasy anywhere nor a dragon or elf to be found.
I recommend this as a lazy summer day read for a child who won't be quick to emulate some of the misdoings in the book. I also recommend for an older person who wants to step back in time.
December 07, 2007.
One of my favorite books!.
Rating: 5
I am 13 and although "The Penderwicks" is an easy read for me, I absolutley love this book! It seems a lot like a modern, easier version of Louisa May Alcott's "Little Women" (another favorite of mine). I say that, because each child has her own personality and adventures just as the March girls do in "Little Women." I highly recommend this book because it's content is clean,and it's quite enjoyable to read. It's a great book for a daughter to read on her own or with her mom. :-)
December 25, 2007.
Overrated?.
Rating: 3
I eagerly snatched up this book when I saw the glowing comparisons between it and some of my favorite childhood writers (Estes and Enright, in particular). While I see the similarity in the style of the story, I think the praise may be heaped on a bit too high.
The writing is indeed very good, with vivid scenes and interesting details. But contrary to what many other reviewers have said, I found the characters of the sisters especially lacking in dimension, each reducible to a short list of signature traits, and I'd agree with one earlier reviewer that the plot was a little slow and lacking in excitement. It's not that I think a book needs magic and explosions to be exciting - the most everyday of situations and experiences will do - but somehow the adventures of the Penderwicks didn't ring true or delight and enchant me the way the Moffats and Melendys, after all these years, still do.
December 30, 2007.
So Sad to See it End.
Rating: 5
Oh nooooo! I can't believe this is the end!! I just stayed up all night, reading this book and I can't believe how amazing it was. Let's just say, I TOTALLY knew Liana's secret from the beginning. Throughout, I was pining for Rachel and Raf to get back together, and I couldn't believe all the things that go wrong on their trip. I was in tears when Miri "turned to the dark side" and wouldn't believe Rachel. As soon as Rachel and Liana "did the deed" I couldn't believe Rachel had actually done it. I WISH THERE WERE 10 MORE!!!! :(
December 26, 2007.
The Best Book!.
Rating: 5
This is by far the best book in the trilogy. Though the first book was amazing, Spells and Sleeping Bags was just better! By the way, I may talk about the first and second book in here, so if you haven't read them, just look at my rating! I won't give away the third one, though. I was a little disappointed with the second one, after all, I was pulling for Raf and Rachel to finally get back together. But I was so happy when she discovered she was a witch, like her mom and Miri. In the third book, Rachel and Miri (and their step sister, Prissy) head off to camp in upstate New York. Rachel immediatly makes friends, but what seems like the perfect summer at camp doesn't last long. Miri isn't enjoying camp, Raf and Rachel can't seem to get back together, and there's a girl in Bunk Fifteen who there to make life miserable for Rachel, and who has a big secret of her own. The only problem with this book is that it's the last one. I want her to keep writing them so I can keep reading. It's an amazing ending to the trilogy and a really fun read.
December 12, 2007.
Manzanar - Japanese - California Desert.
Rating: 5
This is the greatest film depicting life in the Manzanar camp in the California desert. It should teach us all about prejudice and where it brings us.
December 30, 2007.
Chavez, Carlos, and Elsie's Reviews.
Rating: 4
Farewell to Manzanar is a novel about a girl and her family going into an internment camp after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
This book is very well written. It explains the struggles that many Japanese people went through during World War Two and Pearl Harbor during the early 1940s. This Books states how it was like to be Japanese inside an interment camp and the uncertainty of what was going to happen the next day. This book is based on one main thing, oppression. It is a novel based on oppression because there is negative power being used by the government for only one specific social group or race, which in this case are Japanese people. The main characters in this book are the father who is taken away from his family by the government and his family, who is not sure when he is coming back. The mother is a strong, independent woman during the novel and Kiyo, who is the little brother, is always trying to make someone laugh. Finally there is Martha, who is the girl telling the family's story.
Overall, I think this is a good book to read because you get to see what Japanese Americans' experiences were like in internments camps and what it felt like to not know what was going on or coming next. -by Carlos
Martha remembers lots of things, but this one she will never forget. She remembers it was December and there had to be about 20-25 boats bombed in Pearl Harbor. Her dad is taken away from her house, because the U.S wants to get information from all Japanese Americans to check and see if they are responsible for Pearl Harbor.
In my opinion, this girl suffered more than anyone I know, because she loses everything. She loses her dad, her family, and also her house. There is nothing left for her. I've never seen my dad, but I would hate to have seen him then lose him. Her family is taken to Manzanar, a Japanese internment camp. She is with them, but not living the way she wants to. She is with her brother and mother in the camp. She loses her house, because the U.S thinks she is potentially responsible for Pearl Harbor, or has something to do with it. Overall, I think this book is very good because it gives you very good details on how a little girl experiences a traumatic event at a young age. -by Chavez
A Farewell to Manzanar is a very well written book. It is about a little Japanese girl and what her family had to go through during three years in the Japanese interment camp, Manzanar. There are things she loses like her dad, her house, and her personal belongings. While she is in the interment camp, she goes to school. She has to get permission from parents to spend time with their children while in the camp. Her dad gets taken because the FBI finds evidence that the father has been giving Japan fuel and oil. They are wrong, but just like that, take him away.
Its really interesting reading what the little Japanese girl has to go through in the interment camp. She stands strong even though her dad is taken away. Even though she suffers, she still keeps on strong. It's a good example that even though things might seem hard, there is always a solution for everything. -by Elsie
December 23, 2007.
Internment Camp.
Rating: 4
Jeanne is only seven years old and living in California when Pearl Harbor is attacked. Her parents were from Japan but had been living in the United States for most of their lives. Jeanne and her eight older siblings had all been born in this country and raised as English-speaking Americans. Jeanne's father is now a fisherman who owns two of his own fishing boats. Their family is moderately successful.
All of their success and security ends when the Japanese attack Pearl Harbor. All of a sudden, people begin looking at Japanes Americans, who are not allowed to become citizens, as the enemy. The American government is terrified that people of Japanese background will pass secrets to the Japanese who are attacking us, so the government takes rights away from anyone who has Japanese blood.
Jeanne's family is considered a particular danger, because they live on the west coast and they fish. They are no longer allowed to fish. Their boats are confiscated. They are then sent to Manzanar, a relocation camp further inland, where thousands of Japanese Americans are sent to live in a fenced-in area until the war is over.
When they first arrive at Manzanar, things are pretty bad. The barracks have been hastily constructed and do not do much to keep out the cold or the dust swirling all around. They are not large enough for families to live comfortably. The food that is served is almost inedible, because the people planning the meals have no concept of what Japanese people eat. Worst of all, though, is the knowledge of the people living there that their government doesn't trust them.
Jeanne and her family are forced to live at this camp for years. This book is an honest look at what the camp was like and what effect it had on Jeanne's family to be stationed there.
I liked that Jeanne doesn't portray her family as perfect. They have as many problems as any other family, and her father is especially flawed. Before I read this book I didn't know much about the Japanese camps, so it was interesting for me to get to know a whole new aspect of the war that isn't discussed as much as the things happening overseas.
This was one person's story, which is both a strength and a weakness. It offers a first-hand account of day to day life, but it lacks in well-rounded historical information. I would like to have know what the government's reasoning was, and how the authorities justified keeping these people locked up for so long.
December 19, 2007.
japanese.
Rating: 5
when i read this book i cried because the americans were fighting against the germans who were doing horific things to the jews and the americans do that to american citizens who are japanese. i'm japanese but an american citizen.
December 08, 2007.
Courtesy of Teens Read Too.
Rating: 4
FAREWELL TO MANZANAR is the chilling autobiography of a Japanese-American girl who survived the interment camps during World War II.
When I began reading this book I had no idea what the "interment" camps were. This is a subject that not many know about and is not a very well-known time in history. "Internment" camps were camps that the American government put together after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor to house all of the Japanese-Americans who lived on the west coast. The people were forced to go and didn't have a choice, even if they were born in America and only had Japanese ancestry. The camps were in the middle of the desert, so that the people wouldn't be able to leave.
At first I didn't like the book very much. But as I kept reading I began to like it. I can't say that I loved it, because I didn't; it's not a "loving" type of story. I enjoyed learning about something that I knew nothing about.
I think all Americans should read this book so that they know that this happened. It is not something that is often talked about, but it should be, so that every American citizen knows about this part that the government played in World War II.
Reviewed by: Taylor Rector
December 16, 2007.
love the author.
Rating: 4
We have fallen in love with these books. My son loves them and we have fun reading them with him. I didn't give 5 stars because we only really use 2 of the books. "Moo Baa LaLa" is my sons favorite. He loves the sounds the animals make and he enjoys hearing opps on "Blue Hat Green Hat". The other 2 just aren't as easy to read. We are looking forward to getting the volume 2. I think there are more "story" Books in there.
December 28, 2007.
Babies and Toddlers Truly Enjoy These Books.
Rating: 5
My 8 month old and my 2 year old really love these books. They are creative, fun and most of them rhyme. These Books help teach your child the colors, letters, animal sounds and much more. My husband and I have "Moo, Baa, La La La" memorized because it has been a favorite of my daughters for some time now. Sandra Boynton Books are fabulous and sometimes even humorous.
December 07, 2007.
Grandchildren love them.
Rating: 5
I purchased these for my grand daughter who is 3 years old and she loves to sit and read them to me. The Books are very sturdy so they should hold up to some abuse. The stories are short, funny and colorful. Just what you need for a busy little kid.
December 07, 2007.
Boynton Books.
Rating: 5
I like all of Sandra Boynton's Books thus far. Most have a catchy tune to them. All the illustrations are great. The stories are appropriate and fun. My 1 year old son loves all of her books. They are excellent shower gifts or b-day gifts as well.
December 12, 2007.
A Perfect Gift.
Rating: 5
I have bought this collection of some of Sandra Boynton's greatest hits for baby shower gifts as well as birthday gifts to very young people. The illustrations are wonderful, the text is catchy and I love them as much as the kids do! I have found they are easy for the kids to memorize, too, which is a good first step in learning to read.
December 21, 2007.
One of the best reads this summer. .
Rating: 5
This book has it all - action, adventure and choices. It's so much more than a YA book. I can't wait to read more in Melissa's world.
December 18, 2007.
Less than impressed.
Rating: 2
When looking for a new fantasy book online, Wicked Lovely struck me as the perfect "urban fantasy" novel. After reading the excerpt from the book I immediately wanted to read more. Now that I have finished reading the book I'm left completely parched. While reading this book I felt like I had to keep going to get to the good part but the good part never really came. There were no real physical descriptions of the main characters and their personalities were either too cliche or they were just shallow. Many parts in the story seemed like they were taken from Holly Black (author of Tithe, Valiant and Ironside). Too many things in this story should have been described and too many questions remained unanswered. Very dissapointing. Pretty cover though.
December 14, 2007.
For me? Worth the buy :).
Rating: 4
I have to say, I'm very glad I read this. The premise itself reminded me of one of O.R Melling's Books on the faerie, which is why I picked it up. But it quickly set itself apart, with its edgey and much more modern tone. Even the ending was a little unorthodox compared to the other `Girl meets Faerie" stories I've read- and yet it was so very right. The pacing was fast, the conflict was compelling and the POVs, though frequently changing, were logical and easy to follow. It was extremely easy to get caught up in the story.
The jewel of the book is without question Marr's description. It was nothing short of breathtaking and inspiring. Especially when it came to how she described the fey and their world (and hell, even the more regular characters and settings) her metaphors and similes were on crack. Truly vivid.
Now in terms of the main character: often times, I've found that some novelists either try too hard to make their heroines vulnerable (turning them into weak minded infantile damsels) or strong (turning them into unbelievably flawless superwomen). Marr avoids that completely. Although I failed to truly connect with her, I felt proud when Aislinn showed her courage and strength in spite of the overwhelming madness around her. Yet at the same time, she was flawed, hesitant, and often needed support from others. She was a strong heroine, without becoming a spokesperson of `Lyke OMG Grl pwah <3' (read: Girl Power's very annoying cousin). That was enjoyable.
Unfortunately I was quite disappointed with other characters. I wished there could have been more back story behind the Winter Queen, and a reason behind why she was so evil. Unlike the other characters, she felt more like a caricature. At first her Cruella DeVille routine was hilarious, but it wasn't long before I found her cartoonish villainy tiresome. I think Marr would do better to come up with a more terrifying and interesting villain next time.
Another character who kind of disappointed me was Seth. Now, don't get me wrong, I love Seth. But I love him like I `loved' the make believe boyfriend I had when I was twelve. Yes, he was really hot. Yes, he was the perfect guy - so understanding, so calm, so gentle yet wonderfully alpha maleish in his own majestic way. But in turn, that was also simultaneously the problem. He was *too* perfect, too good to be true. At times, it felt like he wasn't doing too much for the plot besides being The Perfect Guy (tm). In all honesty I felt myself being far more attracted to Keenan, who had real worries and fears, real flaws and an interesting personality. Even though Aislinn and Seth were the heroine and hero of the story, I mostly rushed through their scenes so I can read more about Keenan, Donia and the faeries.
Also on a side note, somebody else mentioned the term `bodice ripper' and I couldn't agree more. Sometimes it was like I was reading two quite different stories within the same book. I didn't mind it by any means, but I do admit I was annoyed when I had to pause from the faerie mayhem to learn that Seth thankfully didn't have Chlamydia. I would have preferred everything to blend just a little bit better.
Finally, despite the already enchanting nature of the plot, I do wish more had happened. There were some twists and new conflicts that were added as the story went along, but they didn't do too much to pepper the story. There could have been more danger, more intrigue, especially from the Winter Queen. For all her posturing, she certainly didn't do much that would cause me, as the reader, to truly fear her.
But still, definitely read this book, if you're a fan of romance or fantasy. And if you're a faerie lover on top of that, you certainly won't regret buying the book.
December 12, 2007.
I see fairies.
Rating: 2
I mean fairies and plenty of steamy sex. What's so dull about that? Yet "Wicked Lovely" failed to enchant me. The characters are flat and stereotypical. The heroine Aislinn likes to play pool and has a desperate crush on a guy named Seth. She is in conflict because she can see the aforementioned fairies, yet doesn't want to fulfill her destiny by becoming the Summer Queen. She wants to go to college (and make out with mortals). Yet the author provides almost no detail about Aislinn. We don't get a good idea of what she looks like, what "typical teen" stuff apart from sex and pool she enjoys, or her future plans, even though at one point she's vehement that she gets to go to college. The relationship with her grandmother is rushed which makes it diffiuclt to understand why they behave as they do. The fairies are all two-dimensional types, too. You can't love or hate the characters because of this, and it's hard to care how she will resolve her problems. I got the impression the author really wanted to write a bodice ripper instead of a young adult fantasy.
December 11, 2007.
I wanted to love this book.
Rating: 4
A quicksand sort of book that sucks you in. I especially liked the lushly described diversity of faeries. The rule-bound struggle between the Summer and Winter Courts could have been good vs. evil, but it isn't as simple as that. The characters have complex motivations and romantic entanglements. Except for Beira, who disappointed me with her uncomplicated wicked mother/ice queen personality. I'm not even sure why she's so cruel to her son Keenan. Beira seems almost farcical beside the other characters. Also, Aislinn's boyfriend Seth struck me as too flawless to be real.
I felt neutral about Aislinn. I can see how she's meant to be tough yet vulnerable, but I never connected with her emotionally. It didn't help that she becomes the center of attention by chance. What makes her so special? Why is she cut out to be the Summer Queen? I did, however, like how Aislinn grows bolder and more assertive. She's determined to make her own destiny. All in all, a strong debut novel. I'm not sure it's one of my favorites, since I wanted to love it but never really fell for it. Perhaps it will grow on me with time.
December 13, 2007.
Excellent YA Baseball Book.
Rating: 5
If you don't like Books on baseball written for young adults, this book isn't for you. It does not transcend its nature. However, it is an excellent example of its kind and well worth your time if you like this kind of book at all.
The central character is well-drawn and sympathetic but his sidekick, his Catcher and pal is possibly even better and their interaction is funny also. Their is a love-interest but nothing innapropriate for kids that age happens and this romance may simply be the beginning of a long friendship, which would be no tragedy.
There are some very nicely done minor characters.
The narration is unobtrusive and fits the situation. The dialogue is not on the lines of adult conversation but it is mostly kids talking and is as it should be.
The baseball is fun and the story is worth reading.
December 19, 2007.
Parent-approved fantastic read - especially for young boys.
Rating: 5
As a parent of 2 sons, it's tough for me to find good literature for them to read. HEAT is just what I'm looking for as a parent. A great story that moves right along, just enough character detail to make the story real, and baseball! Strongly recommend without reservation. This was my first read of a book by Mike Lupica. Hope some of his others are just as good.
December 03, 2007.
A Story for Baseball Lovers.
Rating: 4
Michael Arroyo has a dream: to pitch in the Little League World Series. His fast ball has "heat" that could get him and his team, the Clippers, there. Michael also has a secret that could keep him from even playing baseball. "Heat" is a novel for everyone who's ever had a dream, for baseball fans and players, and for those who just love a good story with a likeable main character and interesting, quirky supporting characters.
Listen to the Ghost
Secrets I Have Kept
December 26, 2007.
Heat's Heated!!! review by Romano.
Rating: 5
Picture this... a robber steals a woman's purse and is running away as fast as he can. He's at the park, almost able to jump a fence and be free with the purse. But suddenly a baseball comes flying out of nowhere and hits the robber on the back of the head. That's how Heat by Mike Lupica starts out. This is a story about two brothers, illegal from Cuba, whose dad dies, and they have to figure out how to make rent. Michael, the younger brother, is 12 years old and is an outstanding pitcher. Carlos is almost 18, and supports Michael in everything. Michael dreams of playing pro and if Michael goes pro they will be rich. Michael, like every other kid's idol is El Grande a famous picture for the New York Yankees. During one of Michael's games the other team's coach questioned Michael age. He didn't have a birth certificate, so he's not allowed to play. I can't tell you the whole book, your going to have to read it to find out if Michael and Carlos get caught, and if the find his birth certificate.
In my opinion this is one of the most fasciating Books I have ever read. Mike made the book tense so you can't stop reading, though out the book. He's got man other Books that I'm going to have to read, but this was one of his best Books ever. I think anyone would like this book, but if you're a baseball fanatic you're going to have to read it.
December 25, 2007.
HEAT.
Rating: 5
Heat
Heat is about two brothers who goes through a series of events. Heat starts off with 12 year-old Michael Arroyo hitting a purse stealer, Ramon, in the back of the head with a baseball right before he was about to jump the fence. (Now I will talk more about the main character Michael Arroyo, Carlos Arroyo, Ms. Cora, Manny, and Ellie). Michael is a boy whose father died not too long ago and his brother Carlos has a couple of months until he turns eighteen so they have to keep that their a secret to themselves. Michael loves to play pickup games in baseball with a lot of his friends and one day a girl Ellie
came and watched them play. When Michael went over and talk to her, she ran away so they called her "Mystery Girl". Ellie came back and Manny launched a ball way over the fence and she came over and got to know them. Michael is a competitive Little League baseball player, and in a game against Westchester South Michael pitched a shut-out (it's were no one scores a run)and the coach's son, Justin, complains to his dad because they think Michael is too old. The league puts him on the bench until they get him his birth certificate. Michael's team goes top the playoffs with Michael coaching third and he makes a costly mistake which would have of put them in a better position to win. They still pulled it out in the long run. While the fiasco is going on, a man named Mr. Gibbs asked if Michael's dad is real, and Carlos needed more money to keep there family running. So he became a scalper and a cop gave him a warning. Next there in the semifinals against Westchester South and you have to read the book to find out.
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